Chores and Outdoors

 Friday, as we ran those necessary errands. the need for lunch time sustenance hit us and the decision came, do we go home and fix something or shall we venture out and eat in a restaurant? Our choices are limited here but rumor had it that Ay Caramba had moved into the old Twisted Laurel space. Lunch was delicious and social distancing. So into today's world that means darn near perfect. 

Roy has been updating us into the 21st century here in the mountains. Today will be my first time Zooming. Since Community Bible Study is virtual this year, I signed up with the Katy class and my core group leader is one of my favorite people. Seven years ago she was in the core group I led but I knew from day one, she should be a leader sooner not later. 

Sunday after church we ran over to Lowe's mainly to look but we ended up buying a self propelled battery lawnmower. On sale, the last one, well of the self propelled genre. The sales clerks both told us, just take it out of the box and it is good to go. They lied...we are so gullible to no assembly products. But assemble we did. The battery is charged, the lawnmower assembled and as soon as possible we will try her out. Not replacing Mike the Mower Man but this too is another part of my grand plan of the front flowerbed. If we mow around it the grass seeds and weeds might not fly into the bed so freely.

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Almost a week has gone by and blogging went by the wayside. Roy spent his vacation working around the house and taking care of a lot of things. Whew! He is going to do a speech at Toastmasters on what I did on my summer vacation. We got the refrigerator repaired, three painting bids for the front porch, deck and new fence, Flex sealed part of the guttering that has a small leak, cleaned out the dryer vent and we tried to hang the outdoor curtains on the back porch but the drilling caused us to stop early because we were both getting short of patience. We had plans to go to several places but having to be here for fence and painting bids caused those plans to quickly change. Roy says there is always something to do around here...he is talking maintenance wise but I think we get to live in such a beautiful place that the Bible verse to whom much is given, much is required kind of works in contrast to the work. We did a lot in the garage too and I continued that work yesterday, but it being labor day, I took most of the day off. 

There has been a feral breakthrough...Hector Protector lets me pet him. He is mimicking Punky and Strawyer and will rub around my legs a little. In the past few days he has come right up to me, wanting a little rub on the head and behind the ears. Radley let me pet him once but he hasn't been too responsive to any other encounters. Even Mama Cat the grouchiest cat in all the land has shown a little more love. Still hisses but not as much. She has started meowing at me a bit and sits nearby while I prepare their meals. So, that is the feral family report for this day. 

With the temps moderating here, we have gone back to outdoor church. We love it! The hawks were plentiful in flying over. The sky so blue and the mountains as a backdrop, wow, God's sanctuary. To sing His praises and to hear God's Word in such a setting, to whom much has been given, much is required. So thankful to be sitting outdoors and not being subjected to smoke and lights, special effects and mundane sermons. Ok, not all sermons indoors are mundane but in the Covid time, the availability of mundane, pedestrian and banal sermons overwhelm Twitter and FB. Maybe Instagram as well, but not on that one too much to not at all. 

Cool mornings with a breeze might be coming to an end for now. We've enjoyed pleasant temps with very little rain. It is nice to be out of the rainy pattern for a bit. Think supper might be served on the front porch so that Buddy can come out and enjoy the temps too. 

Monday, Monday...

 This morning after fitful sleep I am relieved that the Houston area was spared the effects of Hurricane Laura. Slowly but surely friends along the coast in Louisiana are checking in on FB and relieved each time I see a notification that they are safe. The news certainly is showing the destruction that happened from wind, rain and tornadoes. 

The fence people are here working on the fence and while they were doing that I was out working in the flowerbed in the front yard. The doldrums of July hit and with the exception of watering, not too much time was spent out there. I did take notes of what can be done to improve the weed situation with the cardboard. It is an on-going process learning about what does and doesn't work. I would still be out there working but the wasps were swarming and one doesn't really want to be in the midst of that. Mike the mower man has cleared a path for me in the flowerbed since my easy to thread weed eater isn't proving to be an easy to thread weed eater, well at least to me. 

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Thursday night was a very late night but for a very good reason. Man, once the sun goes down and people turn off lights and go to bed, it is pitch dark. The road work on I 26 wasn't too bad and everyone behaved and followed the signs. The flight arrived early and since airline travel isn't back at its peak, I didn't have to wait in the cell lot, they let us pull up to the curb and wait. 

Watching the ferals is certainly interesting these days. Punky's bunch are putting on weight and playing hard. They were so under-nourished when she first brought them down. Now they are interested in treats and a little interest in food. We can rescue them now and won't have to bottle feed. The fab four plus Boo do not know what to do with these little ones and many times run away if a little one shows any interest in them. Sometimes you just see flashes of color as they run around chasing one another. Mama Cat is trying to take back control of the backyard. Boo is the interesting one these days. She keeps the cat protocol and she is interested in the littles.  

Tomorrow we begin outdoor services again, until the weather turns and it becomes too cold to do so. What a sanctuary or using modern day terms, what a worship center. We are being led by a dynamic pastor and prayerful deacons while doing the new normal that comes from the virus is navigated. Everyone is considered, the old, the young and the in-between with options one can feel comfortable with and still feel a part of the church.  A story that got press early in the beginning of the year, wow, that seems so long ago, was a Methodist church in Minnesota asking those 60 and above to go to other churches because the plan was to have a younger church, the church needed to look younger. The kicker to this whole thing, while the church was not meeting for about 18 months as the church planter began to make connections in the community, they wanted the 60 somethings to maintain the grounds. Mow the grass and shovel snow. One older member of the church said, they want us to be silent partners, to financially sustain the church and then after several years, we can come back. Yes, I believe that is somewhere in the book of Acts. The Lord added daily to the church, well only if they were young and had the look. Uh, yea, you're not going to find that in the Bible. Being in that senior age group now, this is not a hill I am going to die on or stake my claim to. I like what Pastor Bradley says, the great commission still works. He doesn't focus on any age group to join because he doesn't want to limit who God wants to bring our way. I once got a close up view to a couple in ministry that were older than most of the others that they worked with in ministry. This couple worked overtime to look like they were in their thirties when their actual age was in their late fifties. Y'all, all the energy given to looking younger will just age you. Sometimes I wonder if some pastors think they want a younger looking church because it might be easier to boss them around or impress them with leadership. When I worked for the minister of married young adults, it was my observation that the MYA knew exactly what they wanted in ministry both to them and from them, they were not afraid to dog your steps, continuously asking. And us older ones should know when it is time to let go in leadership terms. I am reminded so many times that when we hang on we just might be keeping someone younger from what God has called them to do. Basically, if we all would follow I Corinthians 13, we would all be in better shape.  

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Roy is hooked on outdoor church. He loved being outside, surrounded by mountains and birds in the distance giving backup to our worship team. 

We are waiting on the refrigerator repairman. He was supposed to be here at 10:30 but he called and asked if noon would work because a call in Hendersonville is taking longer than expected. We took the truck in for an oil change and inspection at Jimmy's. Roy has been working on getting me set up for the 21st century on the computer. I have a microphone, faster internet speed, camera, speaker and light. I am getting ready for Wednesday when Community Bible Study begins. 

Inez and Cuman brought us tomatoes and dahlias yesterday afternoon. Feeling like a tomato sandwich is in the works for lunch, at least for me.  

 

Two Storms, One Asteroid To Come...

  It was like a GEICO commercial as I cleaned out my spice rack, rather shelf. The one about the aunt problem... I stood there looking at expiration dates on the various types of spices and most of them were expired. When the trash bag goes out to the bin in the garage, it is going to be a heavy bag. The cinnamon sticks that had expired get to stick around because they are used for fallish holiday fragrance for the house but everything else...gone. Now there is a little room, no a lot of room for several spice/sweetener related items that have a place to go. 

This morning instead of waking up to fog we woke up to a drizzle with rainy overcast skies. Since moving here five years ago, there are very few mornings that come to mind that included rain. Rain around these parts seems to be mainly in the late afternoon and early evening. Oh yes, sometimes overnight. The kitties are not too happy about the rain and I have been careful to put their treats up on the top shelf so they don't get too wet eating. I'll go out in a bit and feed them. 

We had a couple of flickers this morning and then while in the garage, the power went out. So thankful for our generator. Duke estimates power should be restored by 5:00 pm. On Tuesday, the propane truck comes, so that will be timely. We had kind of a scare a week or so ago and I probably wrote about it but it looked like someone was trying to siphon propane. Blossman assured me that it is a very difficult thing to do along with sustaining injuries if one tries to do that. I just looked at the outage map and we are on the very edge of power being out. 11:53 and power is restored. The kitties will be happy to return to eating. The generator just came on when the bowls were ready for consumption. 

I think we can return to the phrase, in these uncertain times. We are keeping a watch on the gulf today. There could be two storms possibly in the gulf at the same time. Really, it is 2020, would we expect no less from hurricane season? Roy has access to sophisticated radar interpretations and while I'm advising him in my limited capacity, he asked, what is your gut feeling? Well, he asked that late yesterday afternoon and it was feeling hunger cause I forgot to eat lunch. I was so busy trying to get all my errands ran yesterday that lunch time took a backseat. I didn't have an answer for him. 

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I was able to get out early enough to work again in the flowerbeds, yard and quarry. Just about have all my quarry work done. Broke up more rocks and extended the flat stone area in front of the swing and added a few more steppingstones to get down into the flowerbed in the front yard. Moved the pallet that has been holding all that rock and will decide what to do with the remaining pieces. Knew that had to be moved before Tuesday when the fence people should be here. Got more weeds pulled and gathered. Letting those dry out on the driveway so that they will be easier to put into a trash bag. The fab four were interested in what was happening and once again my presence disturbed their breakfast. When it is cool enough to get back out there, the early red geraniums in hanging baskets that have just about played out could go in the trash. I might move them to the back where the ladders are and see if they pep up a bit. Red geraniums are not usually my first choice, preferring the pink ones but early in the season red and white is just about all that is available. Then I came across a great sale at a produce stand and added white and pink with a couple of reds to the group. Hey when the plants are $2.00 you aren't choosy. The sunflowers that have played out came down this morning. So the back has dahlias taking precedence.  

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Once again Sunday afternoon turned into a total relax session. One thing that got done, trash down to the road. Oh, and started laundry. After church I made a quick trip to Publix to get more ice cream and ironically salad. Great reminder of the Sunday crowd at the store and by all means get things before Sunday or that can wait till Monday. 

This Sunday we begin outdoor services again. Love those and really looking forward to meeting on the softball field once again. God's sanctuary. 

Bits and Pieces of Trivia

 After a few too many sleepless nights I decided to once again take a sabbatical Sunday. Buddy has been a restless camper which makes me a sleepless camper. I feel great but I staying home this morning is one of the best things I can do for my immune system although emotionally and spiritually I miss being with our church family. 

Yesterday afternoon had a bit of sadness to it, my last haircut with Chloe. She and her husband are moving back to Florida. He is a craftsman brewer and with that all but drying up around here due to Covid protocols, they are moving where there is a bit more financial stability. Chloe already has secured a stylist position there and her son is happy to be near a beach. She is passing me on to her friend Jennifer and we met for a few minutes. I need to ask longevity questions...like are you moving anytime soon? Chloe and I have a great relationship as stylist to client to friendship. I will miss her. She trimmed the last bit of highlights out of my hair yesterday, so I am left with a few natural blonde streaks, some gray but mostly dark hair. We'll see how long this look stays but if I didn't do this now during a distancing and lack of socializing, I'd never know what was under all the highlights. Now I know. Saturdays, in Biltmore Village, would not be a regular choice but with this being the only opening Chloe had and the fact that there are few to none tourists, parking wasn't a problem. With heavy rain and flash flooding being forecast, I planned on taking the truck but when the blade of the windshield wiper flew off, Mustang Sam became the choice. If someone sneezes, Biltmore Village floods. I called Roy and asked him to pray for the trip there and back and finding high level parking. God heard his prayer. Kind of funny, Roy was questioning my need to go to the bookstore. What? Oh, there are so many Biltmore choices here, Village, Biltmore Park, Biltmore Forest...Only a few things get me out in "weather" and a haircut qualifies...sometimes. 

With storms in the area our evening turned coolish and I really should have changed into gardening clothes and do some work...but I was ensconced on the couch, with a book and Buddy. That is until a phone call. It was Brenda and she had made the TN peach pudding. She invited me to come over...right now and get some while it was hot. I only thought I was ensconced on the couch. Oh my goodness! We both agree that was some good cobbler/pudding. And Brenda was generous to send me home with a to go.

This morning while gazing out the back window and making coffee there was an unusual sight in the backyard. Lo and behold, a turkey was casually grazing. Quickly, I looked for the kittens and they were mesmerized by the big bird and visions of wild game danced in their heads. For the most part I seem to protect them from birds, not protect the birds from them. In this instance this is all about hawks, not song birds. I help the birds out then as well but the mockingbirds seem to have matters in their world with cats under control. The turkey moved on down the gravel road but a little later he or she had returned for snacks. This time, the turkey made their way down the steps and the kittens were encircling the unknowing or fazed bird. Once again, to distract the cats, I went outside, in my jammies and chased the bird out of the yard and into the open side flowerbed. Finally, the turkey moved up into the pasture above us and the kittens forgot about the one that got away. It was quite the exciting morning. 

The last dream before waking up this morning involved Greater Tuna. Greater Tuna is, well, different. Two men play all the parts in the play...taking place in the third smallest town in Texas, Tuna. In my dream I was on a game show and had to name at least four characters from the play. I woke myself up yelling, Vera Carp! She was my fourth to be named. I woke up before learning what I won...probably some used weaponry from DeDe Snavely.   

Being inspired by my friend Sharon Z, I purchased an air fryer. It was delivered yesterday. Haven't brought it in from the garage yet, because I need to make room for it on the counter. We have no counter or storage in the kitchen. When we bought the house, who cared? But now with distancing one needs distractions, so a little more cooking is in the works these days. Not to have to turn on the oven is a huge plus. Since my comings and goings are at a minimum, the game of beating GPS distance time has taken a backseat. Now, my game is, beat the estimated power usage sent each month by Duke Energy. Beating the estimate by being much lower. So, air fryer will help with that game. 

We are having more foggy mornings than non foggy mornings. Don't know how that will play out this winter. I have seen a mild winter prediction and a wintry prediction. If winter is somewhere between the two, I'll be happy.

  

Firsts But No Fists

 Yesterday, all my troubles seem so far away...Oops, yesterday had a sense of normalcy to it. The weather looked to be cooperative and so it was off to the Waynesville area. The apple orchard has been open nearly a week and I had yet to make a pilgrimage. I planned for quite a bit of stops but as the day progressed, some of those stops were nixed for another time. A pleasant surprise awaited with no lines at Barber's. Picked up the much missed apple cider donuts first, then headed over to the produce area. Picked up corn, a cucumber, early honey crisp apples and some pears. Took the back way over to Belk and Michaels. Had an all important birthday $10.00 off coupon. I debated on making a stop in Hazelwood, but motored on into downtown Waynesville. Seems so strange, there is traffic but Waynesville looked like a January afternoon not an August one. Found a parking spot quickly and went to Mast. The last time I was there the entrance and exit were marked, you stood in line until a spot opened up for you to be in the store, but it wasn't like that yesterday. People coming and going as they wished and there was plenty of hand sanitizer for all. With it being in the early afternoon I took a chance and headed to the Blue Rooster. Social distancing spacing for the tables. Wednesday means fried chicky day, so along with collards and warm applesauce made it an easy choice. A cup of their loaded baked potato soup completed the meal and of course the coconut cake, but it was a to go item. The skies were clouding up and there was a steely gray sky in the east. Made a quick trip to Duckett's for peaches, decided not to stop at the Canton stores that are fun and made my way toward home. Dropped off donuts and produce to a couple of friends and made it back safe and sound. 

Yep, it was a typical summer type activity doing all those things yesterday yet it didn't feel normal. The day felt a bit empty, not because of shelves and racks holding nothing but air, but the hovering of all the uncertainty dampened any bit of enthusiasm. Other than masks the apple house felt routine and ordinary. The staff visited with us as we made selections. The weekend had been a madhouse with lines out the door. Belk was out of the ordinary though. Each time in the past Belk has sent out a survey my main complaint is how junkie and piled the store always looks. Tons and tons of clearance items thrown this way and that. I won't go through a pile of clothes like that. Their chaos made shopping difficult for my mind to reason out where and what to find, but yesterday...the racks and shelves held only a fourth of what used to be. I have not been in a retail box store in quite some time. I was shocked. Only a couple of registers were open and we stood in line while one person checked us out. There were a few other staff but they were rearranging the empty shelves and could not open another register.  The two ladies in front of me visited with me. They were from the Franklin area. They both joked that the deeply discounted jewelry they were purchasing was for their dinning and living room, where it was a bit more formal attire. I had almost bought a pair of casual/dressy capris when it dawned on me, where was I going to wear them? Even with the 50% off and a coupon, they just weren't going to go home with me. 

There is a Michael's next to Belk and I was looking for some metallic acrylic paint and got the last set. Their store didn't look as depleted. There too, a lady who was picking up a bottle of paint for her husband and I had a conversation of these uncertain times. The store had maybe five customers when I was there. The clerk said the weekends are the busiest times. That makes sense. Mast was busy, but not August afternoon busy. Easy access to the candy dept. I looked through the clothes area but again, even with t-shirts and I wear those almost everyday now, nothing called out. So it was candy and a dish towel, things that are useful. 

Forgive me Blue Rooster for I have sinned. It has been since March 11th when I had my last visit. Penitence was three fried chicken legs, collards, applesauce, cup of loaded baked potato soup and coconut cake. The joy of the Blue just wasn't there. Oh yes, the food so delicious and so welcomed to this Blue Rooster fan. No locals complaining about the tourists crowding the place, no servers running around with platters and pitchers. It could be that my friend who worked there has found a better job, with benefits and visiting with her there always brought joy but it just made it a presence of sadness yesterday, yet the undeniable happiness in my heart that she is better off in her new place of employment.  

Duckett's felt normal as we looked at veggies and fruit. The peaches looked exceptionally good, so a basket came on home. 

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An overcast Friday morning. I need to go to the grocery store. The kittens were late arriving for their morning treat. They play in the evenings in the flowerbed next to the driveway and they might sleep out there too. Don't know. Sometimes they are on the front deck. Punky wasn't around but then I saw Bobsey looking in the porch door and Boo was over to the side. The rest of the bunch came running when they heard the door open cause they know treats will be scattered on the steps. I had just read that two German shepherds are loose in the area and had attacked a cat. That made me a little concerned and then thrilled when the gang gathered at the back porch. 

Worked on getting more corn cooked, shucked and frozen yesterday afternoon. Sweet potatoes have been a good price so of course I looked up how to freeze them and found the process to do so. Yea! Worked on the barn quilt painting a little and have two books going. Both stories are really good although the one written in 1949 has a quicker pace and plot. The other book, while good, is plodding a bit. 

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This is the first time since 2015 that I have not gone on the opening day of the Leicester Studio Tour. The artist that I like to visit are mostly sitting this year out due to Covid. The blacksmith is set up at the winery down the road so I might stop in tomorrow afternoon and see what he has. He should have a good selection because most tours and fairs have canceled this year. 

There was an article in the Wall Street Journal about people who have moved from NYC in the past few months. With crime escalating and realizing they can work from anywhere in the country due to working at home, many have chosen rural or suburban living. Now this was funny, many who have moved realized their NYC attire did not translate well to suburbia or rural settings. Several designers were mentioned whose clothes truly are NYC and I haven't a clue to who they are but I feel confident that the wardrobe basic is black. Colorful outfits just say tourist in NYC. My favorite interview was with a woman who has gone to basic linen and tunic outfits, nothing bad there, but she wears her muck out boots with the linen in the garden. What??? I know linen is cool, I wear it a lot, but not when working outside. The interesting reaction to the article has been why is this news? Is there nothing else you can cover besides this? For me moving to a rural area, I welcomed work and gardening clothes over business casual any day of the week, except for Sunday. Don't get me wrong women know and do dress up around here, quite fashionable I might add, but we can get away with more comfortable and functional clothes. A friend from Houston asked me the other day if I enjoyed the early access to the Anniversary Sale at The Nord. First year not to get the invite and I haven't even looked online at it. A new Nord card in the mail hasn't even been activated. 

Better writers and thinkers have taken time to express their thoughts in these distracting, distancing and distorting days. On some small scale there has been some good coming through. I have a greater appreciation and love for our church here. I have tackled projects that are way out of my comfort zone. Not reading so much at the beginning of distancing helped because there is a very well, used comfort zone. 

 

Over A Few Days

 Last week I began a blog post and it got extended too long, although it may be added to this post. It just depends. I am seeing better today because yesterday was pick up new glasses day. I got a new pair for regular daily wear and ordered a cheaper yet cute pair for outside work. While the past few weeks has not held too much gardening due to heat, we are looking forward to highs in the lower 80s with a nice breeze. We had a little bit of rain this afternoon but clearly not enough so I will have to water the flowers this evening. 

The happy news is this, much to my surprise, the freezer I ordered was delivered on Saturday morning. Even the delivery man couldn't believe that we were getting it because the order had come in the last part of July. We chose this freezer primarily on the delivery date. Most freezers have a delivery date beginning in November.That early Saturday morning phone call that it would be delivered before noon took me totally by surprise. Once that freezer got fired up, so to speak, I have been moving stuff into it and rearranging the other two refrigerator freezers. Yesterday, when Publix had pizza on sale...I was able to buy the two for deal because there was plenty of space. 

After taking a sabbatical Sunday week before last, I was at church for the in person worship service this week. More seemed to be masked up. The sermon and music were just the healing words I needed to hear. Pastor is preaching from Mark, one of my favorite Gospels...Luke is my very favorite. The best surprise of Sunday came in the late afternoon. Brenda called with an invitation to supper. You do not turn those invites down. It was a fabulous country supper of fried okra, fried squash, fried tomatoes, tomato slices, meat loaf patty, green beans and corn. Even got leftovers to bring home which was supper last night. On Tuesday morning, I had been over to Brenda's for my birthday breakfast...which as many know was totally delicious. Really, has anyone had something bad at Brenda's? The answer is nope. Came home with breakfast leftovers and strawberry cake. 

Mama Cat's kittens are growing up. They still hang together for the most part but there has been rough play this past week. It seemed to be more than the usual playful antics. Lots of drawn back ears and hard tackles. Some of the planters on the front porch haven't been doing well and last night I saw the reason, the planters have become beds for a couple of the kittens. Hector Protector has become a little more docile and Radley and Bobsey are working on becoming alpha cats. Mama Cat has been a bit scarce these days, so Hector is hanging out with Punky. She seems to enjoy his company and even Strawyer has taken a liking to him. This morning the kittens have made the discovery that all the other kittens have, the fence and the trees. Several sat up on the top of the fence scanning the scene of their cat-dom. Every once in a while, the dominate black and white male cat saunters through, but he isn't around much, neither is Darth, but Darth seems to be a domesticated cat with all the equipment still in tack. 

This past week one of my favorite authors passed away, Shirley Ann Grau. I discovered her through the LSU Voices of the South series of reprints of southern authors. Her book Keepers of the House is one of the best novels ever and one of the best and first written in the 60's on civil rights. Elizabeth Spenser and Anne Rivers Siddons passed away last year. Thankfully, it seems Gail Godwin and Ellen Gilchrist are hanging in there. 

While doing more rearranging of the garage this morning, something of a surprise greeted me. Knowing that one of the storage bins was empty, I went through them looking for that empty one. It was the one on the bottom of the stack. I opened one of the bins and there was a metal bunny that had been on a stake. A rusty metal bunny, with a steel wool pad as the tail. My mom had given it to me when they lived in Georgetown. A few tears mixed in with the drops of sweat I had worked up in the heat. My mom gave me two bunnies while they lived there in Georgetown. The other one is in Katy. Sentimental for sure, because my mom didn't give a lot of "no reason for this gift" type of gift. It's not because she didn't want to, it was because the vice hold my father had over money and the price she would no doubt pay being nice to me. So, out of the bin and onto a shelf or wall seems to be the thing to do. 

This morning none of the cats were visible. I went out onto the back porch and out of every nook and cranny of the backyard, they rushed to the porch steps because they know treats are involved. Punky was right there with them but she didn't eat. She hasn't felt good for the past couple of days. The delicate sound of treats crunching is a favorite sound. Even Boo who is the most skittish of the cats, with every reason to be, has relaxed some with my presence. Could be hunger trumps human presence. So this group have all finally been named, Boo, Radley, Miss Priss, Hector Protector, and Bobsey. 

I am also older as I write this post. Celebrated a birthday last week and so did Buddy. She's napping this morning after napping on my lap. She is eating treats but that is about it. I vary the selection to keep her interested. It seems so strange for her not to be motivated by the shaking of the treat bag to get her to appear. Maybe I was feeling my age earlier in the week because I find myself watching documentaries in the afternoons. Sometimes the TV doesn't even get turned on or if at all it is around 8:00 or 9:00 pm but watching about Reagan, the Royal Family, Roosevelts and SEC football has held my attention .

More Simplicity, Fun, Play and Creativity

Life has certainly simplified since the middle of March. It looks to be that way for many. The HR department at Roy's office sent out an email looking for the positives in this seriously upsetting and uncertain time. So here it is:

I decided this week to see if I can find a bright spot – a silver lining as it were – to this pandemic.  Something positive, or at least interesting, must be going on.

Here is an admittedly un-verified top ten list from my knothole in the fence:

1. Pet adoptions are higher and animal shelters are emptier than ever; people are valuing the companionship and unconditional love of pets (especially dogs, no offense to other pets, but dogs are the best)
2. Bicycles and related equipment are flying off the shelf; individuals and families are riding like it’s the 1950’s again; I am dodging them on the way home every evening
3. Outdoor sporting equipment – canoes and kayaks, fishing gear, camping equipment, etc. – are booming; we ordered the last kayak available on Amazon and there were none available anywhere else, used or new; people are taking advantage of the great outdoors and getting that natural vitamin D
4. Jigsaw puzzles and board games are in short supply; you have to catch them when they re-stock the shelves; families are playing, sometimes for the first time ever
5. We are remembering or learning how to sew; even the novice seamstresses can sew a face covering and there are countless tutorials
6. Cooking is returning to the home kitchen and recipes are being shared like never before; even I have baked banana nut bread lately
7. The road trip is back; my son and daughter-in-law have rented an RV and are setting out this week on a family road vacation with built-in social distancing
8. The “to-do” list at home is getting smaller (or, in some cases like mine, getting larger, “while we are at it, let’s do (name that project)”); home improvement stores are enjoying brisk sales
9. We are getting new skills; I had never Zoomed or Door Dashed before COVID, nor had I ever given another human a haircut (!)
10. We are catching up on movies and television series that we always meant to see, but never got around to watching; the current series at my house is the new “Perry Mason”, but there are so many choices….

More family time, more creativity, more play, more outdoor time – it’s not all bad!

Notice that Roy highlighted 6,8, and 10. Ten not so much for me but I have scaled back on Andy and Barney cause I am getting too involved in the fact that everyone enabled Barney. One has to think creatively during these times as well as adding a sense of play. Play is not difficult for me and until it got too hot for me to be outside, loved all the outdoor time right in our own yard. I talked with my friend Bev on Saturday about a project and she was giving helpful hints and lessons learned from her experience.

Over the weekend there were a few cool breezes so I was able to transplant more sunflowers to the side flowerbed and able to do some more mulch work in the front flowerbed. So far, I have only planted one of the butterfly bushes and trying to determine where to place the other one. I was able to cut and bag more weeds. Got more work done in the garage too. So all in all, the weekend did have some productive moments. I took a sabbatical Sunday yesterday. Also making good progress on a book that has a great story line, so I am not barreling through it. Roy also assuaged the fear that our neighbor had over the fence we are having installed later this month. He must have thought we were having it built higher on the property but since it is a decorative fence, we are placing it much lower. But the offer to buy up to the gravel road is out there and we might take them up on it. It would probably cost more to have a surveyor come than the actual cost of the sliver of land.

This morning after reading about increased bear and bobcat activity, when I didn't see any of the ferals out back, I am not going to lie, a bit of anxiety hit. There is usually at least one of them out there. Boo showed up and after thinking Boo was a boy, Boo seems to be a girl. Strawyer is very interested in Boo these days. So, I threw out a few treats and slowly but surely they all began to meander into the yard. The other night, it was coolish and looking for a diversion, I pulled out the good ol child fishing rod and played with the kittens. They aren't into laser light but loved chasing the fish. While we were playing, my eyes just happened to lift to the sky...there were four hawks circling above us. The kittens saw them as well and scurried under the shrubs. I stayed out there on guard until the last hawk flew away. None of us were in the mood to resume the game.

Foggy Mornings Count

Beginning tomorrow, foggy mornings count. The folklore in these parts is, the number of foggy mornings in August reveals the number of snow showers for the upcoming winter. It is an inexact science, well it isn't science, but we can have a fogged in morning here but just over the hill, clear and can see for miles. In August I make note of the mornings and see what happens when winter begins.

Johnson City and the surrounding area held my interest for yesterdays adventure. Instead of the Mustang, I took the truck thinking I might make it over to a garden shop that has some cute trellis. But first thing, the places I needed to go to before fun. Glad, I did that although the necessary stops are fun. Stopped in at both Amish stores for the vitamin infused drinks they carry. Between the two stores I was able to procure four twelve packs. They were out of Roy's queso additionally both stores were packed. That is a bit unusual for a Thursday. Made a quick trip to the Kroger. Picked up a few things but not too much that was on my list. Even just a little over an hour away from home, you cannot help but notice the difference in what is deemed essential by people and what is not. The Kroger was a little picked over but oh glorious day, they had plenty of burritos and they were on sale. If I had more freezer room, I would have picked up a couple more than I did. I sensed an urgency in the stores and carts were filled. Now, I know it is getting toward the first of the month so that could be a reason, but it was an observation that didn't elude. After getting the essential errands done, I considered doing the fun part but after getting soaked to the bone taking groceries out to the truck...the option ceased and the trip home began. Looks like that area got a lot of rain yesterday. Clearly the good thing about getting home was getting packages in that had been delivered because it wasn't too soon after arriving home that we got some rain. At times it was a solid rain not just little sprinkles here and there.

The interns at Roy's office have come to their last day. This group did mostly their work from home but today they turn in lap tops and such. Usually, there is a luncheon and a send off but due to Covid, they're not doing the send off this year. Recruiting in September will probably be done online as well. Roy helps recruit from one university but the interns come from colleges in both Tx and La. He also works with them on presentations and office presence during their internship.  In one of his talks about interviewing and working for a corporation he offers this gift, if given the chance, look around, see if there are older workers in the mix because if there are, you want to be a part of the company you're interviewing with. Some may say, well Roy says that now...no, he has said this beginning in his thirties. Look around, observe and decide. Because if you are working for a company that holds youth as a core value, be prepared to make an exit as soon as you hit your late forties cause the time is ticking on your looks and value.
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We had a doozy of a storm last night. It was unusual because the storm affected a large area when many times storms are hit and miss around here. The rain gauge looks like it is around 4 inches. Got up this morning to look out and see if there is any damage control that needs to be done. Everything looks ok, even the apple tree that is really, really leaning. The lights flickered last night while lighting and thunder made sure we all knew they were in town. Buddy and I huddled together in a chair and rode the thing out. By the way August 1st, foggy morning.

I was able to freeze another twelve ears of corn. This time I left the corn on the ears instead of slicing it off. I also transplanted the rest of the sunflowers to the side flowerbed. Fertilized them and gave them some water. My neighbors probably thought I was nuts watering since we received about four inches of rain, but want to help them get establish and growing.

Pandemic Personalities, Publix, Pressure and Plots

Since writing about Pandemic Personalities yesterday and it seems like an ongoing process, a trip to the Publix this morning might be adding to my Pandemic Personality.  With this ongoing crisis there seems to be a lot more men grocery shopping these days. Most are pleasant shoppers but there are always a few, in almost every trip to the store that need some grocery shopping etiquette lessons. Even if you don't agree with how the one way aisles are laid out, out of the kindness for others, will you follow directions. Of course I realize men do not ask for directions even with GPS in the car. So these guys just go through the store on their own terms. I watched the other day as a middle aged woman stood her ground at the end of an aisle to block the man and his cart from entering. He was a bit puzzled why she didn't move her cart over even when saying excuse me. She was like the tree planted by the water, she was not going to be moved. Finally he followed her hand as she pointed down to the floor clearly marked...do not enter...X wrong way. It worked, he moved on going up the next aisle so he could come down the one she had blocked. I laughed and she turned to me and said, I'm not getting COVID cause the guy won't follow directions. This morning I encountered a man with his granddaughter. Did not follow the one way aisles and he left his cart in the middle of the aisle while he and granddaughter looked at pasta. That time I was able to get by, even said excuse me, but don't think he heard that. Then and the importance of this aisle is not dimmed, he left his cart in the middle of the entrance of the aisle. Now, I wasn't going to touch the cart and since he wasn't anywhere around, I kind of played bumper cars with his, but gently not with a big shove. My real concern for this guy was not keeping a diligent eye on his granddaughter. Cute, probably around 5 years old and so instead of getting upset with his total lack of shopping etiquette, I was keeping an eye on her for her safety, so no one could just abscond with her.

Another happening at the Publix, I finally picked up some of their fried chicken. People have been telling me how good it is, but these are the same people that tell me how good their cakes are. I have not found their cakes to be all that good but, the fried chicken...yes! Delicious. I was able to get four legs so I would have lunch for two days. On Sunday I thought about going over to KFC or Bojangles but opted for a salad at home. So fried chicken has been on my mind.

The pressure washer guys are here. Our home was looking pretty bad. I think you are supposed to have this done every other year but last year with the back porch being built, we skipped a year. A plus is the windows are getting washed on the outside. Always something I am going to do and then never do it. I will not have to add this to my Pandemic Personality. They did a fabulous job. House looks great. Mike is here and he just cut up the fallen tree and is now mowing. He texted me that there is a wasp nest next to the driveway. Ugh!
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In the midst of writing a small thunderstorm stirred, causing Mike to close up shop and we lost our WiFi for a good bit of time. Thus, nothing would be saved if I continued to write. Mike is back this afternoon finishing up weed eating and then he is going to kill the wasp nest.

TJ's announced yesterday they had butterfly bushes in stock for $10.00. So off to Mars Hill this morning to get the plants and they had local corn for sale. I had seen a thing about grilling veggies in the oven, so I picked up a few to give it a try. Then I ran over to Ingles and picked up a few more things.

Yesterday, was a fun package delivery day. A friend sent me a Texas Care Box and it made me so very, very happy. Note to self, forgot to buy sour cream...anyway, lots of fun getting that box. Roy ordered a heavy duty appliance surge protecting plug. We will be ready for when the freezer is ever delivered. Got that installed this morning which means finally I was out in the garage when the refrigerator motor wasn't running so I could unplug and re-plug. I began cleaning out the area where the freezer will be which means other parts of the garage had to be attended to. Lots of rearranging and cleaning. the plus, things that we thought were lost were found yesterday...After beginning and then ending that task when it got too hot, I ate leftovers for lunch and then picked up with the book I am reading, Big Lies in A Small Town. Great plot and it has hooked me from the very beginning.

Well, that's it for now.

A Week or Weak Retrospective

I think I have developed a Pandemic Personality...you know another personality added to the bunch. Pandemic Nancy is a little more organized, a little more domestically leaning, oddly creative and much more germ aware. My brother Doug and I came up with our theory in a three and a half hour phone call this week. He is all about spraying Lysol and I am all about using Clorox wipes.

In the midst of being more organized, before Christmas last year, I desperately searched for the Christmas gift I had bought Doug in May. I felt I had put it in the sideboard in the dinning room, but it twernt there.  I was semi cleaning out the closet in the front bedroom when low and behold, I found a white box taped shut. Didn't give it a thought for several days, then decided to open it cause I hadn't a clue what it was...it was Doug's Christmas gift. I called him to let him know that the last part of last year's Christmas would be on the way to him. Doug and I cover all kinds of ground when we talk. Gardens, cooking, COVID-19 and at some point we visit for a little bit of time, our childhood. We are not making excuses for our weaknesses or even being bitter, but trying to understand, which we will not probably understand on this side of heaven and on the other side, we won't care. Doug got two good years with our father and it is hard to reconcile two years out of so many horrible ones. I am coming to terms with how much he hated me and his actions or no actions that came from all that hatred. Doug confirmed what I had thought all along the other night and in all our conversations he hadn't ever told me. Many with the beginnings of dementia have those thoughts of people stealing or taking things, but my father's actions did not have that dementia quality to it. He was such a good liar and so believable. Long story short, he initiated the actions against us, first time letting the story get away from him and being influenced by his posse and the second time, he initiated because he wanted to, it was funny to him, thinking we would be investigated again. Thankfully, my brother was able to stop that second investigation before it even started.


Just finished freezing twelve ears of corn. TJ's has local corn from Mills River and so many have said that it is great corn. So, I've been dreading husking it that is until I Googled a You Tube video that showed the easiest way. Basically, microwave, cut off the end and push the ear out of the rest of the husk...very few strings, not a lot of mess. Got it cut off the ear and put into the freezer.

There is a distant rumble of thunder but so far no rain here. Earlier the thunder was much closer yet the end result was no rain. I keep looking at the dahlias, thinking they need water but after watching some rambunctious cats, I now know the lack of rain look is merely flowers being beaten down by the playfulness in the evenings.

This seemed to be a week to take it easy. Partly, I needed to keep an eye on Buddy. She stopped eating and was lethargic. In the middle of the week she began to eat a few treats and some food I feed the ferals. She is not at full speed but is a little more active in between her naps. She still isn't eating much but giving her a variety of treats has perked her interest. Many times I catch her just staring off into space. It is odd seeing that and I pet her or talk to her to try and bring her out of that state. She has tried to get behind the corner unit but putting large books around the edge has held off her success. 
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Ah, Sunday afternoon. Long nap after lunch because very little sleep last night. Buddy could not settle. We even did the bonus room sleep which usually lulls her but didn't work last night. This morning, I overslept but still got to church early. Pastor Bradley resumed his preaching through Mark and we finished up Mark 5 yesterday. He preached on the woman with the issue of blood, Jarius and his daughter. All three of them in the midst of the crowd had one thing in common, their desperate need for Jesus. It didn't matter if you are a high ranking synagogue official, an unnamed woman with a horrible problem that left her in the state of being ritually unclean for twelve years and then when it came to the daughter, Jesus spoke in such a compassionate voice to her. The little girl get up story has special meaning to me...for many reasons but I clung to that story while going through bilateral knee replacement rehab. Get up, walk around, people are astonished and Jesus says give her something to eat. It is not there but I think the little girl had fried chicken, mashed potatoes, fried okra, creamed corn, yeast rolls and coconut cake. Can you tell I haven't been to Blue Rooster lately? 

No Lions, No Tigers But There Are Some Bears

When he sensed weakness, but didn't yet know the source, he was like a tracking dog, a bloodhound. A Bible verse comes to mind, seeking whom he might devour. Once he recognized the source, he was relentless. First it began as joking around, at the expense of the weak one. The attack escalated and victory for him came when the victim took it...didn't try to deflect and merely counted off time to wait the attention out or find some reason to escape. Sometimes the perceived weak one, would speak back, directly. Most times it didn't take much for the bloodhound to retreat, but not the kind of retreat that comes to mind. Confrontation, he wasn't afraid of it, he wanted it. Thus everything could escalate. It seemed once he had said everything he wanted to say, he dug in on a nerve to totally "own" the weak one. When he tired of his meanness or perceived he had lost the advantage the bugler in his head sounded retreat. His retreat wasn't peaceful by any means and now in his warped emotional thinking, he was the victim.  Most tracking dogs are for search and rescue or to track criminals down and keep a community safe. He was like a bloodhound but his tracking instincts were not for good. Maybe he was a mixed breed bloodhound with a bit of aggressive pit bull dog in the mix. If you found yourself in his presence, the best strategy? Never, ever show any sign of weakness.

The above paragraph is part of a creative writing prompt and today, the prompt was, he was like a ________.

We might be looking at day six of having temps in the 90s. Along with the heat, the humidity has kicked in making any time outdoors difficult. I was out earlier feeding the ferals and coming back into the house, to the welcomed air conditioning was a pleasure. Last night as the rain split to the north and southeast, I got out to water the front flowerbed, plants on the deck and plants in the back. Oh, let us know forget the wildflowers in the side flowerbed. It is a lot of work. The sky was overcast when I began but the sun came out in the midst of the chore. I got hot pretty quickly.

Today on Monday I had Sunday lunch. I cooked the greasy beans all afternoon yesterday. They were definitely lacking something, a little more salt for sure. So I added salt and remembered some spices mixed at the Biltmore for dipping bread in, oil and spices. Those spices were added and boom, the beans were so good. Since I like to eat a large meal at lunch time not so much for supper, I punted the planned meal to today. Delicious! Greasy beans, sliced tomatoes, ham and sweet potatoes. No cornbread but none was needed.
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Tuesday morning began foggy but it has burned off with the sunshine. The ferals were out waiting this morning for breakfast. The kiddos used the waiting time for playing and it is difficult to get anything done when playtime is on. Even though Punky is around a little more, Boo, her kitten we couldn't rescue, has bonded with Mama Cat. He is out there playing but takes time to go over and sit by her. He doesn't do that for Punky. It feels as if there is a power shift going on in the back and the territory is becoming more of Punky's. So, who knows, it is just fun to watch those kittens play.

The local neighbor association is reporting a lot of bear sightings around us. The ones who have lived around here for a long time seem to think the bears are living by Mountain View Church, in the woods on their property. Those woods come to the edge of our neighbors above us. When I am outside I am keeping an eye open for bears, but no lions or tigers. I once saw a bob cat in the front yard and our neighbors have seen some on their trail cam.

In this social distancing portion of life, with lots of time and projects to keep me occupied, I find a gentle change happening inside. I don't know if it is the effects of this season or if it is a part of me that was kept under wraps for survival sake. Anyway, no matter, a calmer approach to life is healing. The slower pace therapeutic. The unrealistic needs of trying to keep up with whomever we are trying to keep up with don't even register in a top five kind of deal.

Sunday Night, Looking Like Rain

Last Saturday I was trying to decide if I would drive over to TN or if I would stick around the local area. Thinking of more people being out on the weekend and not wanting to be in a crowd decided to do the local thing. Being able to take one of the most beautiful drives to Mars Hill made the decision easy. It was a nice day so the top came down on Mustang Sam and off we went. Had the music turned up a bit and I was singing to some oldies. While enraptured with song, taking in the sunshine, a weird feeling hit my leg. It felt as if something was crawling up the calf of my left leg. First thought that came was of recent FB posts where a snake comes out of the a/c vents or from underneath the dashboard. You know I went right there before looking. Now mind you this is all happening in nano seconds but it felt like a much longer time. Not knowing how I would react if it was a snake, or lizard or spider...I kept my eyes on the road because there are twists and turns, river to one side and smack dab into a mountain on the other...quick glance, much relief, it was a paper towel grazing my leg.

With that could be emergency settled, it was onward to Mars Hill and TJ's. Pulled into the parking lot and saw a sign over a section of the tomatoes, Mr Stripey $3.49 a pound. Went inside, got half runners, berry pepper goat cheese, cinnamon rolls for Sunday morning but before checking out, I asked a question about the Mr Stripey tomatoes. I asked if Mr Stripey was a local farmer, up in the mountains of Madison County that was known for his delicious tomatoes. The lady at the register, mindfully suppressing a laugh, responds...they are a heirloom tomato. On the inside there are stripes of pinks, reds, and green. Behind me I heard a lady murmur..bless her heart. Not to be totally embarrassed I let them know, working on being here five years and lots to learn but being from Texas, never saw a Mr Stripey. So, I bought several. Oh my, what a good tomato! Not as acidic as regular ones, a tad sweeter. Tasted very good with Dukes, salt and white bread.

Last night I sat on the front porch stinging greasy beans. Several soft rumbles of thunder and then a light rain shower reminded me of days gone by sitting on the front porch with Grandma B shelling beans and peas. We sat together on the glider. We talked but I don't remember any particular conversations, but I knew I was loved by her. We did laugh quite a bit and when there was a lull in our conversation, Grandma would say something to the effect, so many cars traveling by, wonder where they are all going?

With feral cats being fed in the backyard the number of flies increase. The past year or so I have put up cylinder fly traps but this year yellow flat sticky fly traps have been added in the garage. Those yellow fly traps catch a whole bunch of those suckers. Sometimes while fixing food the flies being trapped draw my attention. Some land and are able to fly away but many are trapped and sometimes it looks like that scene from Gone With the Wind, where soldiers are lying on the ground, a massive amount and you can see some movement, lots of dummies were used for that scene because there were not enough extras. The extras moved and made the dummies move next to them. Anyway, there on that yellow fly paper of death, many struggle to be free. So many flies...

Buddy had an up and down night thus meaning I had an up and down night too. Very little sleep and around 3:30 am I made the decision to stay home from church. The past few nights have not held much sleep and with my resistance down, I don't want to give COVID-19 an opportunity. It is about 50/50 on mask wearing at church.

While this social distancing time has been spent doing projects, cleaning out drawers, attempting some closets but decided to put those on the if I am really desperate for something to do list, a few negatives have entered the six foot zone. A few weeks ago I wrote about everyone enabling Barney on the Andy Griffith Show. Since that is on in the background many a night, it is looking like I need to find something else or leave the TV off. Maybe I'm getting more like my mom, she didn't like Barney and found him to be a nuisance. But Barney is wearing thin on my nerves. Another nerve getting on thing, social media has been around for a while. If you participate with it by now you know that everyone's life is not peachy keen. So, for those who have to put that in a post, so we won't think that life is nothing but a dream, sha boom, sha boom...just stop it! Give us the grace to know that 99% of us know that social media is used to portray an image and the 1%, they'll think whatever they want to think, so writing that life isn't perfect is so unnecessary. Also, along this line...if you want something, be willing to pay for it, not get it for free. Stuff like, if anyone has free tickets to a Broadway Show, please contact me. Anyone have a cabin we could use or a beach house or a condo or a timeshare? Stop it! Most that are asking can afford to rent or lease or pay...The answers are interesting in response to asking and most are directing the person asking to AirBNB or VRBO. One time when asking for tickets, almost everyone said, go online to the box office.

So, I cannot end this post on a negative note of things getting on my nerves. I started a new book and it is very good Big Lies in a Small Town. After being so discouraged by not finding something to grab my attention, the Upstairs at the White House got me rolling. The memoir I started is okay. Well, that a wrap for this evening. I watered flowers and now it looks like rain. Oh boy, then I won't have to water tomorrow evening.

Just Some Friday Catch Up

The dilemma each morning now with warmer temps is, go out early and do a few maintenance things in the flower garden or stay inside and begin a blog post. Well, this morning it is obvious the choice I made. The choice came after being outside for just a bit, even in the shade, it didn't take long for me to come back inside. Although I got a hole dug for the climbing rose bush, worked in the quarry to break up some rocks to add to the pathway down to the flower garden and gave a few droopy flowers a little watering. The ferals have scooted off to somewhere cooler than the yard. More power to them.

I read an article yesterday about hanging tough with gardening in July. Weeds, even with the best way possible to keep them at bay and plants that didn't grow according to the plans made in the spring can be frustrating. The encouragement was good because that weariness quickly has been taking over that initial joy, even with flowers blooming and the sunflowers growing strong.
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It has been several days since writing the above and those paragraphs are relevant this morning. I tried to beat the heat and get out to do a few things like putting the smaller pieces of broken up stones for the pathway in place, feed the birds and chop down some weeds. It didn't take long to abandon ship on those plans. My neighbor and I were talking the other day about keeping up spring motivation into the middle of summer.

This morning I slept in until 8:00 am. Most of that sleep came from my eye exam yesterday which included dilated eyes. Also Buddy had a semi restless night. Her old age is showing again this past week. She will eat treats somewhat and a little food but mainly wants to sleep. At the last vet appointment they told me she is doing good for a fifteen year old cat but to expect the slow down to accelerate a bit. It is tough watching her maneuver her moves . I thought she was a goner last August but she pulled through. Hoping she can do the same this summer.

For a COVID time, this week held what used to be so normal. Hair appointment, trip to the Amish Markets near Johnson City and eye exam. What wasn't back when normal are all the protocols put into place for a safe experience. It is interesting what different businesses feel is important to the whole safe experience. I think the strongest protocols are at the hair salon. Fever check, sign a waiver, just bring in what is needed, no extras. They disinfect used pens, your credit card and constantly ask you to use the hand sanitizer. Got some bad news from the salon, Chloe is moving back to Florida and will be leaving the salon at the end of August. We have such a good relationship in all things hair and life discussions. So, I will only have one more appointment with her. That news took the wind out of my sails, it affected me so much emotionally. After doing the hair thing I went to pick up the paint by number barn quilts over in Madison County. Picked two designs that she puts on the plywood for you, supplies the paint and brushes and instructions. I was in the Mustang for the pick up and the thought crossed my mind that Sam might have some trouble getting up the steep gravel driveway. And yes, there was trouble and a whole lot of spinning going on. I backed down and thought this through, the options that maybe would help. I saw along the left side of the driveway, grass and not so much gravel. So again, revved up Sam, veered to the left and success! If I decide to do more of her things, the truck will be the way to go.

Roy wanted some more extreme queso from the Amish store, so Wednesday I made the trip to TN. Got his queso and a few other fun things. No need for a Kroger stop but I did go back to Academy to get a couple of visors. Stopped for lunch at Carabba's and then made my way home. It was tempting to stop along the way to take some flower pictures but overcame the temptation.

 On the way home from the grocery store, thinking about all the changes in the past few months in the big picture as well as on the home front. These are just some random thoughts, in no order and probably of not much importance.

During the safer at home COVID time

Goldfish and Texas Mix, together in a bowl have been the snack during this time.

Ice cream, while always loving it, is the dessert of choice for me these days.

Hamburgers, sloppy joes, pasta dishes and long time favorite or newly married meals have been the choice. Some of it comfort food other, just easy to make.

I discovered gardening.

Several long procrastinated projects have been checked off the list, but there are still so many more awaiting attention.

Like I said, not anything important but I do feel good about how I have spent the days mainly being at home. With this done, think I will make some sloppy joes for lunch and there might be a few frozen fries to add to the mix.

Fri-Yay

One of our biggest jobs we tackled on Roy's staycation was pulling out the refrigerator and cleaning and vacuuming the coils. I had done the best I could which had helped the cooling situation but with Roy tackling the big job and his attention to detail, the difference was night and day. Good thing I had bought some small brushes for cleaning metal straws because that got into the nooks and crannys. Recommended to do twice a year and that made Roy so happy, happy, joy, joy.

I have been working on a short story...still too short to write about here. I have taken a few writing courses over the years as well as belonging to a book group that critiqued my writing style. Fiction is not my strong suit, so it is a challenge. It is not a story about cats.

While Roy and I made peach butter and strawberry freezer jam, we realized that the kitchen wasn't meant for two people. Normally, that would be wonderful news to me but here of late, because of the lock down, I find myself preparing meals in the kitchen. Meals that go beyond warming something up in the microwave. We've never had enough counter space nor storage space. We have tossed around the idea of expanding the kitchen and that idea tossed up to number one taking over redoing our en-suite bathroom. Roy watched a lot of Home Town with me and we began to put together ideas of what we would want. One thing we both agree on, is leaving the wall between the kitchen and living room. But we would take the archway out of the now dinning room to open that up. That way we could have a long island for counter space as well as an eat in bar. We have that in our Katy home and we really like that, along with electrical outlets and more storage. So it is good to be thinking on these things.

Another change of heart...well, it isn't that big of change but I ordered some boots to wear when gardening or doing farm work. No farm work in the mix but yesterday as I was slip sliding away while trying to cut down weeds, the thought came to me I should have muck boots or something. So while the color choices weren't that great for my size, found some on sale and ordered them. Why am I humming the Green Acres tune? Not only have I ordered boots but now while on sale, I have ordered two pairs of gardening pants...cool, wicking fabric and lots of pockets and they'll compliment the new boots. I need to talk to Mike the Mower Man. Rumor has it, he has a tiller and there are a couple of flowerbeds dancing around in my head. This much is sure, it is too hot to work outside now. Looking to fall plantings for spring flowers.

Finished Upstairs at the White House and moved right into Lake of the Ozarks, a memoir. Never been there but it reminds me a bit of back in the day Branson. The author worked in the summers at a hotel his aunt and uncle owned. We are probably close to the same age and he grew up in central Illinois. It is a humorous look at a vanishing America, cheap kitschy souvenirs and easily entertained amusements  ...but once I got into it, I thought maybe there could be some trigger points from the nightmarish trip and trips to Branson Missouri with my father. Both my brother and I shudder when someone mentions Branson. Oh, my mother was there but it is always the father issue in our most horrible, not beloved but now kind of laughable adventures with father. One Christmas, Dad suggested that we all go to Branson, his treat. My brother and I nervously exchanged glances...we didn't answer right then cause it was presented more as a statement, not a question to us. Doug and I were able to have a short conversation first to affirm that neither one of us wanted to participate and who was going to address this with father. I had the least to lose, so I breached the subject by first telling him what a generous offer but Roy and I would have to decline. You'll understand my next statement by telling this, my father picked hotels that were cheap. He and my mom would sleep in their clothes with their wallets under their pillows. He stacked furniture to barricade the door at night. So, when I told him Roy and I traveled at a different level than he and mom and it just wouldn't work, he took it well but then looked at Doug, uh, same thing...  Branson was also a part of the "Big Gulp Trip" that Roy and I took many, many years ago.

Fences, Gates, Ferals and Buddy

Once again the liberty of easing into the day is afforded this morning. And once again the forecast is for a rainy afternoon. Yesterday, we received some rain, but I wouldn't categorize the amount as a shower. Buddy has been treated, had her usual lap nap and spent a bit of time on the front porch before heading upstairs. She has changed her first morning spot from the sunny bedroom to the more comfortable bonus room.

We have officially been scheduled for our fence and gate. If they are able to, we will move up in the rotation. I would like to have a fence in the front yard as well but we will maybe wait on that a bit.

Last night I had settled in for the evening after planting a few things in the back and getting them watered. Got a notification from a security camera, looked at the footage and it was Mary Joyce from across the way knocking on the backdoor. Quickly, I called her daughter who lives right behind her and then I went out to look for Mary Joyce. The past few month, dementia is overtaking her and she has never come over this way. I didn't know if she was lost or scared or what. Anyway, she was on the front deck when her daughter arrived and we all visited as if I hadn't called. Bless her and her family as they go through such a difficult time.
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Thursday morning early rise with Buddy. Getting up really early is easier than those 2:00-4:00 am kind of nights. Feeling like a nap will be included into today's activities. The morning is starting out foggy...no not me cause I have already had two ginormous cups of coffee. An email on creativity suggested ways to remain creative. One was meet the dawn once a month. Well, that can be checked off the list. I looked out the back window to check on the ferals or to see if the ferals are in the backyard at all. Their silhouette gathered under the fir trees doesn't let me know if we are down a kitten or not. Radley looked sickly again yesterday. Having Mama Cat in the backyard is giving me new insight into her. She has come across as uncaring and inattentive with litters in the past. Several compassionate actions are changing my perception of her. Radley sat in the middle of the yard yesterday. Mama Cat brought food over from a bowl and placed it in front of Rad. Then she sat there keeping company with this little one. A little later Miss Priss came and sat with Radley.

I am almost finished with the book Upstairs at the White House. Mr West served the White House from the Roosevelts to the Nixon years. Such interesting insights to how the house is run and the joys and idiosyncrasies of the various First Ladies. The Kennedy years while short were compelling. Jackie Kennedy got a whole lot done in a little over two years. Last night, even though I told myself I would stop reading at that point...no, I went onto the LBJ years.

We had a good rain shower late yesterday afternoon. Hurrah! I was going to have to water the front flowerbed. In the side flowerbed, I had let some weeds grow thinking they might be wildflowers. Last year I pulled up a bunch of flowers thinking they were weeds. With the soft ground as both a help and hindrance, help to get the plant removed, hindrance standing on an incline of a wet and slimy surface. The roots are unbelievable and one can only spend so much time trying to extract this strong weed from the ground. Last night and this morning I made a small dent into the growth. Tonight, weed cutting and pulling will resume.

A quick feral update...all the kittens are here and accounted for. Yea! Radley looks a little more lively today.

Our Summer Staycation

It has been a while since writing a blog post. Even in this social distancing season, where time to do those things we've procrastinated continuously has amply served our feelings of accomplishment, there have been other things taking attention. Thus, blog writing takes a backseat, no make that a third row backseat to life. There were things to clean and things to prepare and things to do, but now on this Tuesday morning once again the liberty of easing into the day has arrived. So far, I have given the ferals and Buddy treats, tasted on toast our first attempts of freezer jam and have had a lot of butterscotch toffee flavored coffee. All in all a very fine morning.

Roy's staycation went by too quickly. He was able to get a lot of rest in between all the things we had to do. We got most everything done or at least a beginning to those projects that take time. Roy cleaned the well water filter and got the dryer vent situation taken care of. We finally got the old trash can to the landfill and practiced being ecological by tearing down cardboard boxes and taking those to the landfill as well. The always ongoing, never ending cleaning of the garage got a bit of time and we received a quote for backyard fencing and a gate for the driveway. Roy will get those returned to the fencing company so that we can get on their schedule. The HVAC system was inspected and Mustang Sam went to Jimmy's for an oil change and basic maintenance. I have been thinking about rearranging our bedroom furniture but gee, somehow we ran out of time to get that done.

We finally used our canner for dummies. I bought it four years ago with visions of canning dancing through my head. It just took up a lot of cabinet space, but before making a decision to send it onward for someone else to enjoy, we made peach butter. We waited way to late in the day to begin the process. We made the peach butter in our slow cooker and then used the programmed canning thing to seal and preserve the butter. Next time we need to begin earlier in the day so the peach butter can be thicker. When I said to Roy it is labor and time intensive, I should have been way more specific! I've never canned before but have heard the stories...I don't think he believed me. Nice though, he believes me now. We were able to buy more perennials while they were on sale at Reems Creek. We did some garden work, but not much. We were able to get a few more bags of rubberized mulch to finish out the front flowerbed. May and even into June seemed cooler than normal so garden work wasn't so limited but now that we are in July, the mornings and afternoons are too hot to work. We differ so in our stamina. Many evenings I still have energy to work but Roy has given his all and is ready to crash in front of the TV.

Roy prepared his workspace to be able to work from home if that directive comes again. We ordered a monitor and other computer stuff. I like using this big monitor off the laptop. I ordered and assembled a desk early on in the social distancing season. He was quite happy with the results.

In between all our chores we took a couple of days to take off and enjoy the countryside. We didn't make it to Max Patch but we did get to see some of the countryside around Burnsville and we spent an afternoon in Johnson City. We ate out our first and only meal of staycation, Carabba's. Very well done social distance dining. Sadly, pizza is not included in their COVID-19 menu. Roy was quite shocked and may have not gotten over it, that I cooked all our meals with the exception of biscuit Sunday morning. We tried out the new griller and the hamburgers were delicious! I also introduced Roy to TJ's. He was quite smitten with the veggie and fruit selection but I think his favorite purchase was the cinnamon rolls. Truthfully, I was quite smitten with them as well. 

 We weren't able to attend our neighbors July 4th party because Roy got word of the very strong discouragement of being in groups from the office. Thus on Sunday morning, our first morning back inside the church, we didn't go. All around us on July 4th night, we had a great firework show. Around here people stop shooting fireworks before midnight which is really wonderful. It was a buck moon and we got some great pictures of it from our driveway. We did make it to several bookstores and I am finally feeling the reading mood hit.

The feral kids have discovered the metal basket on top of the antique baker rack out back. This morning four of them were curled up sleeping. Boo is still skittish around me but he is not running as far. With cat food, any food really, the flies are abundant. My latest interest is watching flies land on the fly paper. Well, interest is too much of a word, but some escape and others don't. I need to put another sticky catcher out back cause that thing is almost filled with flies, wasps and other types of flying bugs.

Well, I should stop here and that's what I'll do....

Faith, Hope, and Procrastination

Saturday morning. Mama Cat has beckoned all the little ones, who aren't so little anymore, and she has included Boo. I know I have posted on FB as well as writing about this phenomenon several times but her acceptance and behavior toward Boo has truly astounded me.  Mama Cat be cranky most of the time. She swipes at Strawyer and Beanie...goes eye to eye growling with Punky and greets me every morning with a round of hissing. Then she does the closed eyes thing, so basically Mama Cat is passive aggressive.

My original plans for the day included going over to the Artsy Pants Market in Haywood County. I love going to this particular event, but last night before going to bed, the thought came to me even with an abundance of caution, protocols and required masks, that's a lot of people indoors in exhibit halls. A lot of the vendors are outside but I know me...I would not stay out of the exhibit halls thus I am staying home. I have something or someone more that I love than this market and they'll be here very soon. It does not help to see pics so I am staying away from FB for the time being. Another factor too, the high is going to be in the low 80s. Factor in temps, plus people, plus wearing a mask, and limited seating...and the likelihood of getting too warm or hot rapidly escalates. Last year at the market even in the spring, the heat affected me. It is all about staying in the protocols set for me to stay feeling good. This year, even with Covid 19 being all the rage, has been the best I have felt in a long time. With the exception of the spring heel spur, working in the garden and yard has been pain free with energy.

During the self distancing portion of life, I find myself watching a little more TV than usual. We have Netflix and Hulu but it seems I spend a lot of time in Mayberry or in Landford, if it is the first few seasons. I know I have been watching too much Andy when I am saying to the TV, why doesn't anyone confront Barney? Why do they tolerate this behavior? I mean how many times can Barney try to fix up Andy and fail. How many episodes will be devoted to Barney jumping the gun and thinking that Andy and__________ pick any of the girlfriends Andy dates...only a week or so...are getting married only to discover, Barney misread the circumstances. A tad dramatic and compensates for his feelings of insignificance by being a blow hard, know it all kind of person. So, yes, I have been self distancing for too long to be thinking these things. But he sure did bring a lot to the show even if it was on repeat.

It has been an interesting watch from a distance with the pastor from Atlanta thing from last Sunday. His word choice...well, it wasn't good but it looks as if he has escaped the mob mentality and will not have to resign from his church. He is a fortunate one but he came back with a social media apology that merits sincerity and repentance. He and his team have been cutting edge for quite some time, in music, books, and styles of worship. It seems to be the thing of his generation of preachers, teachers and pastors to change words...phrases to make them relevant to the times. This goes from renaming Sunday School, which so many still refer to even if it has a new name, to renaming rooms of the church or different ministries. I totally get that, but it is funny to think that most of these guys are in their late forties, fifties and early sixties...their relevance time is running short. Soon a new generation will come and rename the names, remove smoke and fog machines and light shows...not that all churches do that and sometimes it does add to a service. This particular generation hit church leadership when the business model began to form in churches and leadership being based on a business culture outlook, oh along with some prayer and meditation. Maybe, this type of leadership from these particular types isn't what is needed right now. It could be that we, white people, should let POC lead the way. Certainly, we need to be listening to learn and care and join with.

The much anticipated haircut happened yesterday. Chloe told me I have a lot of gray hair now, only it looks blond. I'll take it! So technically it feels like I lost about six pounds of hair yesterday. Next appointment comes with highlights and it is over a month and a half away, soonest to be able to get in. No blow drying, so that was kind of weird but totally doable. I just put the top down on the Mustang and let the wind do its thing. I thought about going to the Screen Door or ATB but opted for Barnes and Noble. Haven't been to this particular one since maybe January. Totally rearranged and the feel of relaxed browsing and relaxing is diminished somewhat, but that doesn't affect my style of bookstore browsing. I was there yesterday for a couple of magazines.

I have caught myself a couple of times going out in public dressed like an old lady and not by choice either. Went to the doctor office and my blues did not match. I wore an outfit the other day that totally screamed, old but didn't realize it until I was out and about. This is what happens when one's affection for The Nord has been replaced by Tractor Supply....well, that is not totally true. I still order from Flax.

This morning, like many mornings, I walked into a spider web. Did the necessary get the web out of my hair dance and now...well I feel like spiders are everywhere. Every little itch, is a spider and of course I know this not to be true. I do my best to avoid webs because those spiders are doing a job of catching bugs. Part of my long list of jobs accomplished is fly traps and fly paper cause with ferals in the summer, there are a lot of flies hanging about.

There is one more perennial to plant and I need to check the latest transplants of sunflowers. I should have kept a list of all the things accomplished around here during the isolation part of this year. Funny how being home translated into really doing projects cause sometimes procrastination is a spiritual gift and Paul said it so well in I Corinthians 12. So you should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts.

But now let me show you a way of life that is best of all....The way of procrastination. 

And with that, I will end today's blog post. It is a beautiful day out here on the back porch but there are strawberries to be cut and vacuuming to be done. Oh and laundry, there is always laundry.

Catching Up With This Week

WNC is enjoying a brief respite from summer temps. In the 50s at night and only in the 60s during the day. Last night it felt so chilly in the bonus room that it was tempting to pull out a small heater but I resisted. That is what sweatshirts are for.

So many things to blog on and those thoughts have been rumbling about in my head but what happens is this, it is best to work in the flowerbeds earlier in the day. By the time I get into the house sitting down to write just isn't that appealing. The front flowerbed is just about done and now my attention has turned toward perennials for the backyard. Reems Creek is having a sale on perennials and pollinator plants through the month of June. With rain threatening yesterday, it was the perfect time to go there because the crowds are there mainly on sunny, let's plant something kind of days. While picking up a few plants yesterday I overheard a conversation that tickled me. The staff is so helpful at Reems Creek and they give you pointers and info while you are looking at plants. Being in the pollinator section, divided into native and non native plants, this gentleman who had been sent by his wife most probably, because there was that constant phone contact weighing over on plant decisions, asked a couple of questions to the staff lady about how these plants would do in the higher elevations. He went on quite a bit about living in the higher elevations...so the lady asked him, what is your elevation? He said oh we are up there at 2500 feet. She and I both about spit, but we didn't cause we had on masks and spit would just return to us...she kindly responded, sir, our location is at about 2500 feet. Around here, the higher elevations are considered 3200 and beyond. Must be a new Floridian to the area. Weaverville is a Floridian attraction point.

Buddy had her vet appointment and I am so much happier with this practice rather than the zen one closer to Asheville. All the Covid 19 protocols are in place, so they ask questions over the phone, then come out and get the pet, examine them and then call you in the car to tell you their findings. Buddy was not a well behaved cat yesterday and she was giving them a little bit of grief. They were not able to give her a full examination but after a little time in a darkened room to calm down, they were able to give her a mani/pedi and get the steroid shot in her. We are looking at options for Buddy to be examined and of course that includes getting meds into her. I told the vet gabapentin doesn't calm Buddy down one iota.

Last year I began collecting old ladders and benches. Didn't do much with them except put flower pots on them. This year I have spray painted them various colors but mainly going with a teal and red color theme. Last year the plant man by the river sold me a couple of apple crates and those have been spray painted and one so far has been stenciled. Nice work on cool afternoons on the back porch.

Mama Cat is keeping control of the backyard. Boo, Punky's kitten from the last litter is slowly but surely being accepted by, I have lost count, but its cousins or aunts and uncles...who knows. Until they totally tear them up, I am keeping the cushions that were on the rocking chairs back there for them. Has to be better than lying on the hard or wet ground. It is also a great play area as the kittens on the cushion defend from any aggressor trying to get up there with them. Guess it is like King of the Hill game. I got an up close look into the face of Boo when putting some treats out, dark eyes, really such a beautiful cat. This last litter of Mama Cat is about the best looking litter in the history of the feral fam claiming their home back in 2017. This particular litter are very fluffy, so I'm not too sure how many males and females there are. This is the jumpingest group of kittens. They hop around like bunnies in the evenings.
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It is getting a little rowdy in the backyard. Mama Cat doesn't like Strawyer, Punky these days doesn't seem to like anyone, Beanie is great with childs and the kittens are moving beyond their sacred spots and taking on adventure. So, two kittens were eating when Punky arrived. She made that low growling sound...didn't phase the kittens, so she took a swipe at it and the room so to speak scattered. One of the twin kittens came over to protect Mama Cat and there for a few seconds...I didn't know if an all out brawl would take place or what. Such hopes for peace as Mama Cat has taken in Boo. Punky is done with him. But Mama Cat remains a tried and true feral. She will eat every bit of food so that no other cat or rival can have any. There have been spats in the garage and by the food bowls. These ferals...they are entertaining though.

Of course none of the things I've contemplated or thought about have not been included on this post. Tomorrow is the long awaited haircut. Have to wear a mask. Sometimes I can get it adjusted right and no bother but other times...such a bother.

Buddy is feeling better. She is the happy wanderer. She goes from place to place but now has finally settled down in the window of the bonus room. She was a wanderer last night thus I had to take a short nap this afternoon.

Cats, Tags, Burgers and Jams

Buddy is taking in the fine temperatures and sun on the front porch and the kittens out back are playing those wild kitten games and feats of strength. Makes it difficult to get anything done because they are so entertaining.

I decided to try and pick up my temporary handicap tags. Last year being able to park closer to buildings really helped my intolerance for heat and kept the ol' ticker in rhythm. The line was longish so I punted and took a scenic drive over to Mars Hill to stop in at TJ's. They had a delivery of local beef and pork that morning but I was too late to get a steak to try because they were sold out. I picked up a package of hamburger and think I will make sliders this weekend. Got a few more peaches,  tomatoes, and a flat of beautiful zinnias. I was able to plant several before a nice rain shower came through. In a bit I'll check on the transplanted sunflowers but as of last evening they were looking like they had perked up a bit from the shock of transplanting. Last night I looked at several options on modified wheel barrels and think there is one that will do all the jobs that need to be done around here.
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Pick up of tag successful this morning and no waiting. Got there a little after 9:00. I debated on whether to run a couple of errands or come home. I came home to check on Buddy. Her old age is giving her problems this week. Nothing that seems to warrant a visit to the vet but it is tough watching your cat companion of nearly 15 years, deal with old age. She gives glimmers though of a youngish cat. She played with an empty paper bag this morning as well as chased a cardboard tie around the kitchen. Now she's napping and I'm feeling that call as well.

Our pastor and deacons have decided we will have outdoor church until the end of June. Several of us wanted to clap, but we held off on that. It struck me as funny yesterday that I parked by first base and sat in short right field. The chairman of the deacons prayed during the service and he said to the effect thank you God for this beautiful sanctuary you have given us. Yep, sitting on a softball field, lush green verdant mountains for a background, blue sky, hawks, birds singing and a pastor who preaches the Word. It is a lovely sanctuary in deed.
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Wednesday morning and the forecast is rain. Right now it is just overcast but the radar indicates that rain is moving toward us. It can be moving toward us but that doesn't mean it will get here. Last evening I went to the flowerbed to water and as I was wrapping up that work I could see rain moving our way. A fine mist that obscured long range mountain views. So, guess the watering primed a little rain shower.

Cat world right now is topsy turvy. Inside, Buddy is not feeling well and she now has a vet appointment. I know she is a geriatric cat but there might be an underlying problem. We've had rough nights of late. She has always been a meowing cat and she isn't meowing more than usual, but her demeanor is different. She still is eating, drinking and pooping, so that is all good. The past week or so Punky has not been herself. She came around in the evening and didn't eat much. I've been keeping my eye open for an opportunity to scoop her up, but she had pretty much stopped rubbing around my legs while preparing food for the fam. Her little black kitten that we could not rescue has been hanging around the yard a bit and just that makes me think that Punky might no longer be with us. These cats have proven that theory wrong before and I hope that is true this time. What I have gathered in watching these cats over the years is this, when one of them is not doing well, they sit with it. They put aside their cat differences and surround the ailing cat. Cali and Riley did this for a kitten that wasn't going to make it, Edee had her family with her and just the other day Strawyer sat with Punky, but not in the usual way. In other cat news, Mama Cat is not in the backyard this morning. Now with her, it could be several things, but she has been known to dump her kittens with me and she moves on. The past few days of observation made me think she was getting to that point. Now, to get the kittens but with Buddy I am hesitant. She does not share attention well...so I am at a quandary. Just a couple of weeks ago I felt overwhelmed by the ferals. Even one of the male cats that comes around now and then showed up last night and I think he has a broken front leg or at least an injured one. He is here rarely so he hasn't even received a name. Ranger disappeared about a week ago, Frankie, well he hasn't been seen for a couple of weeks. Frankly with Frankie, I am happy not to see him hanging around. He scared me and felt that he might attack me. Big Chief the alpha to the max cat, not around. Darth comes around a bit but I think he is someone's cat who they let out now and then. He is too well groomed and not afraid of my presence. So Beanie, Strawyer, Boo and the kittens are around this morning.

With plans to work around the house yesterday, a FB notification announcing strawberries changed those plans. I had been working out in the garage and believe me, I had a little bit of a Lazarus scent going on. But scent be danged, I did what we all do at times, just sprayed on more deodorant and hope for the best. I got there in time to claim strawberries, just a few buckets left, got some tomatoes, a couple of peaches and two more pounds of hamburger to freeze. Since I came prepared with a cooler, I took the scenic route home along the river road. The mixes of summer fragrances lofted in and out of the car. Hay, river water fragrance, and floral fragrances graced and accompanied me along the drive home. Those fragrances helped with the Lazarus thing....

Oh, an update on my hamburgers....oh my goodness! Out of this world delicious. I have grilled burgers but never fried them in a pan. First attempt successful. My Houston friend Sandy, got me to thinking about getting one of those George Foreman grills. I didn't buy one of those but got a Cuisinart grill that is a multi tasking grill and the grill and flat plates are dishwasher safe. Just like free shipping gets my attention, not having to do a hand washable type cleaning...well, I just ordered me up one, had a coupon and Belk Bucks. I had been thinking of giving away my canner for dummies that I have never used, but after looking through the recipe book, Roy and I decided we are going to try our hand at peach jam. It's a natural, you know, to go with his biscuits.