We live on three acres in a area of sparse population--just off the road to nowhere. Yet is amazes me how many people end up driving up my private driveway to ask for directions!
If you get off the freeway, and head north, hoping to find something, you will travel several miles, and realize that you have made a wrong turn somewhere---except that you haven't---this is all that is here!! The road winds and turns, goes up hill and down, so I suppose it is a little disorientating to those who have no sense of direction! They end up going east, when they think they are going north---because there is a tendency to stay on the paved road.
Which I suppose is why, when they finally see a paved side road that looks like it is inhabited, they slow down and turn---then choose the first driveway---Or there is some sort of invisible (to me) "travelers aide" sign pointing right to our house!!
We have had people show up with flat tires. We have had people show up looking for a park. We have had people who were just hopelessly lost.... all of them "older" women, in upscale cars. They ring my doorbell, and assume I am not an ax murder, sex offender, or other ominous type. They want directions, or for me to call a tow truck.
I am not originally a "country" girl. I grew up in an area where you did not go to "strange" people houses, for any reason---let alone a house in the middle of nowhere. What are these people thinking?
They could go back the way they came--and start over. They could get a GPS (last one had a Cadillac for goodness sake!). They could try map quest or google maps. They could get directions before they leave home. They could keep going and hope to find civilization. They could use their cell phones to call someone for directions, or get a cell phone like mine, where I can pinpoint my exact location on google maps on the phone!!.....But instead, when they get lost, they end up in my driveway!
Maybe when I retire, I will get some exterior plywood, and make a little roadside stand to put out down near the road---and be like Lucy Van Pelt, "Directions, 25 cents"!
Apparently although I can identify the specific cars parked in my driveway on a satellite map, there is still the need for someone who can point down the road, and say--go that way until you get to the end of the road, and turn right!
Random musings of a middle aged knitter.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
3 to 4 lbs!!!
Recently my DIL boasted that she lost 3.8 lbs! Today, I found it....or rather, my exterminator did.
Before today I did not have an exterminator--I had an extensive collection of rodent traps and a can of raid, supplemented by ant traps. That was my arsenal against keeping the "wilds" out of my house. When you live in "the country", things are constantly trying to move in with you!
For the last few weeks, I have been observing and occasionally doing battle with some yellow jackets that seemed to have developed an affinity for the corner of my house. By today, it was more than an affinity--and based on the Internet info (I don't know how we lived without the Internet!!) I was hopelessly beyond a can of Raid, as their nest was obviously somewhere--but not visible on the outside of the house! Out came the yellow pages, and quickly I had arranged for "Tony" from a pest control company to come out and look at my yellow jacket problem. I was working at home today--making this adventure possible!
When he arrived, he looked at my "bee-central station" and said he needed to start in the basement! That had not really occurred to me--that they had actually moved beyond the sill plate and into the ceiling of our finished basement. A tentative lift of the ceiling tiles--and we were off to exterminate, as he instantly identified the nest--entangled in cable coax, plumbing, insulation, wiring, and duct work in a corner of the house.....
He suited up, asked for a grocery bag, and warned me to stay upstairs. I went back to telecommuting (very convenient way to help facilitate a visit from your exterminator, it turns out). I head a little clunking and bunking, but went on with my work. A while later, Tony emerged, in full bee suit, and went around to the back of the house. He said he had dying yellow jackets in the basement, and now it was time to puff the killer powder into their entrance. I watched from the screen porch, as he puffed away, into the invisible hole, surrounded by confused and hostile bees! I began to appreciate the value of the exterminator!! (I do not have, nor do I want, a bee suit, but he needed it just then!)
He returned to the basement, and I watched the swirling bees outside as they were drawn to the hole, but sensed something was amiss. A few "white powdery" bees emerged, and nose dived to the ground. There was quite a swarm for quite awhile. The cat, dozing on the porch, was unimpressed. I was fascinated.
About a half hour later, Tony emerged again, removed his Bee helmet, and asked for some paper toweling---he was completely wet from being inside the suit on an 80 degree humid day, doing battle with my yellow-jackets. He asked for another grocery bag, and some water. I gave him a double bag--no problem. He went back to "nest removal"...muttering something about a "city" down there. I went back to work. The bees were still buzzing around outside, acting a little crazy. The cat was still snoozing in the sun.
Finally, a triumphant Tony emerged from the basement...stuffed grocery bag in hand--leaving a slight trail of dead yellow jackets on the steps...saying "LOOK--it is about 3-4 pounds! Biggest nest I ever saw. It went in all directions. They have stopped buzzing now--and I have most of it in the bag-----I'll just put this in my truck.!" (I think he wanted it as a trophy!!--fine with me!). He came back to retrieve his "stuff" and went to fill out the paper work. I snuck down to survey the "war zone"---in the corner the ceiling was lifted--yellow jackets, confined by the glass doors flew lazily around--in big loops (death spirals, according to Tony). There were nest "crumbs" on the floor, and dead yellow-jackets in small piles. According to Tony, I needed to wait 24 hours before using the shop vac to clean this up--so they would all be really dead--and so my shop vac would not melt from the posion ---no problem!
The bill presented and paid, Tony kept telling me how he had never seen a nest this big--going in all directions! He seemed quite proud of the eradication, and said that I have a 60 day guarantee--but he did not expect me to call. I thought he was wonderful--and am delighted with the promise of being yellow-jacket free!
He says I have some mess left to clean out--as he went as far as he could, then applied some more Killer---and in a few days, I could pull out the rest (--or just leave it there!). Fix the hole they entered through...vacuum up the floor. He did not think he would need to come back----but did say (again and again) it was the biggest nest he had ever seen!!!
So, Stately Wayne Manor now has an exterminator. It is so much easier than dealing with it yourself! He has a bee suit! He has killer powders! He wraps the nest up in a grocery bag, and takes it away in his truck....all for just some cash!! Within two hours, not a yellow jacket in sight outside the house. Cat still snoozing, and I wrapped up my work day!
Now listen young people---if you are looking for a stable career, consider extermination--it cannot be outsourced overseas, and there are no shortage of pests for people to want not in their homes. Sounds like a good career choice in this weird economy! Besides, all your clients will LOVE you!
And really, I never even heard them buzzing......
Before today I did not have an exterminator--I had an extensive collection of rodent traps and a can of raid, supplemented by ant traps. That was my arsenal against keeping the "wilds" out of my house. When you live in "the country", things are constantly trying to move in with you!
For the last few weeks, I have been observing and occasionally doing battle with some yellow jackets that seemed to have developed an affinity for the corner of my house. By today, it was more than an affinity--and based on the Internet info (I don't know how we lived without the Internet!!) I was hopelessly beyond a can of Raid, as their nest was obviously somewhere--but not visible on the outside of the house! Out came the yellow pages, and quickly I had arranged for "Tony" from a pest control company to come out and look at my yellow jacket problem. I was working at home today--making this adventure possible!
When he arrived, he looked at my "bee-central station" and said he needed to start in the basement! That had not really occurred to me--that they had actually moved beyond the sill plate and into the ceiling of our finished basement. A tentative lift of the ceiling tiles--and we were off to exterminate, as he instantly identified the nest--entangled in cable coax, plumbing, insulation, wiring, and duct work in a corner of the house.....
He suited up, asked for a grocery bag, and warned me to stay upstairs. I went back to telecommuting (very convenient way to help facilitate a visit from your exterminator, it turns out). I head a little clunking and bunking, but went on with my work. A while later, Tony emerged, in full bee suit, and went around to the back of the house. He said he had dying yellow jackets in the basement, and now it was time to puff the killer powder into their entrance. I watched from the screen porch, as he puffed away, into the invisible hole, surrounded by confused and hostile bees! I began to appreciate the value of the exterminator!! (I do not have, nor do I want, a bee suit, but he needed it just then!)
He returned to the basement, and I watched the swirling bees outside as they were drawn to the hole, but sensed something was amiss. A few "white powdery" bees emerged, and nose dived to the ground. There was quite a swarm for quite awhile. The cat, dozing on the porch, was unimpressed. I was fascinated.
About a half hour later, Tony emerged again, removed his Bee helmet, and asked for some paper toweling---he was completely wet from being inside the suit on an 80 degree humid day, doing battle with my yellow-jackets. He asked for another grocery bag, and some water. I gave him a double bag--no problem. He went back to "nest removal"...muttering something about a "city" down there. I went back to work. The bees were still buzzing around outside, acting a little crazy. The cat was still snoozing in the sun.
Finally, a triumphant Tony emerged from the basement...stuffed grocery bag in hand--leaving a slight trail of dead yellow jackets on the steps...saying "LOOK--it is about 3-4 pounds! Biggest nest I ever saw. It went in all directions. They have stopped buzzing now--and I have most of it in the bag-----I'll just put this in my truck.!" (I think he wanted it as a trophy!!--fine with me!). He came back to retrieve his "stuff" and went to fill out the paper work. I snuck down to survey the "war zone"---in the corner the ceiling was lifted--yellow jackets, confined by the glass doors flew lazily around--in big loops (death spirals, according to Tony). There were nest "crumbs" on the floor, and dead yellow-jackets in small piles. According to Tony, I needed to wait 24 hours before using the shop vac to clean this up--so they would all be really dead--and so my shop vac would not melt from the posion ---no problem!
The bill presented and paid, Tony kept telling me how he had never seen a nest this big--going in all directions! He seemed quite proud of the eradication, and said that I have a 60 day guarantee--but he did not expect me to call. I thought he was wonderful--and am delighted with the promise of being yellow-jacket free!
He says I have some mess left to clean out--as he went as far as he could, then applied some more Killer---and in a few days, I could pull out the rest (--or just leave it there!). Fix the hole they entered through...vacuum up the floor. He did not think he would need to come back----but did say (again and again) it was the biggest nest he had ever seen!!!
So, Stately Wayne Manor now has an exterminator. It is so much easier than dealing with it yourself! He has a bee suit! He has killer powders! He wraps the nest up in a grocery bag, and takes it away in his truck....all for just some cash!! Within two hours, not a yellow jacket in sight outside the house. Cat still snoozing, and I wrapped up my work day!
Now listen young people---if you are looking for a stable career, consider extermination--it cannot be outsourced overseas, and there are no shortage of pests for people to want not in their homes. Sounds like a good career choice in this weird economy! Besides, all your clients will LOVE you!
And really, I never even heard them buzzing......
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Like riding a bicycle....
Yesterday new GS was 11 days old. I can't believe that almost two weeks have past since he entered our lives (and I am sure that his parents have thoughts about this too--although I doubt it has flown by for them!) I had the fortune to be visiting at the hospital, when the post-partum nurse emphasized that it was important for mom to (turning to me!!) have grandma watch the baby so that Mom could get away--even if just to walk to the corner.....and launched into her post-partum depression avoidance "speech".
This grandma works full time--so last weekend offered the "service" so Mom could walk to the corner--offer declined. Offered again this weekend, and it was gleefully accepted.
When I arrived, GS was freshly fed, and I was informed, in "burp" mode. Mom and dad headed off--not to the corner, but to Target. Grandpa Crabby Pants (GCP), recovering from the plague, kept his distance--which I think was fine with him, as he is much more anxious to explain the difference between English and Metric sockets to GS (at a later date) than to participate in "burping". (Although GCP could probably give the kid a few pointers on this topic) GCP took pictures, and attempted to learn how to send them with his blackberry...which was funny, considering his professed techno-savyiness, and limited success--but that is a story for another day.
GS, of course, wonderful. And amazingly, I did not need a hazzmat suit to handle this little one (unlike my memories of my own children!) He does not spit up, projectile vomit, and did not leak while I was his caregiver. This kid is a piece of cake!!!
GS and I cuddled, danced, swayed, got dressed, swaddled, talked, posed for pictures, snuggled, looked out the window, re-swaddled, walked and rocked. (On the advice of my children, we did not sing...)Finally, we burped (although I think it was more accidental than deliberate.) Of course, the one thing he wanted more than anything was away at the Target--and I empathized while he grumbled a little.
Just as Mom and Dad pulled into the drive, he stopped fighting it, and drifted off to sleep. A deep, contented, I am secure, full, comfy, and all is right with my world, baby sleep. Mom and dad returned triumphantly with a baby swing and a papoose pack--because as the parents, they must get other things done (like sleep and laundry) and they (unlike grandmothers) do not feel that they can hold the little munchkin 24/7. And in their defense, and the defense of parents everywhere, neither did grandmothers when they were the mom..but we can now, and do, and will continue to do so, because we get the chance to, and of course get to go home and sleep!
We took Dad to dinner, and brought back a turkey avocado sandwich for mom at her request---GS was still soundly sleeping---a full two hours! Mom could not believe it,and had just performed the "mirror under the nostrils test"---to make sure he was still breathing!!!
Mom marveled at the "soundly sleeping", and thinks that I should be there at midnight!!! I was thrilled that babies are still "low tech", and that my data bank was intact and still useful after all these years!
And apparently, GS feels dealing with your grandmother is exhausting!!!
This grandma works full time--so last weekend offered the "service" so Mom could walk to the corner--offer declined. Offered again this weekend, and it was gleefully accepted.
When I arrived, GS was freshly fed, and I was informed, in "burp" mode. Mom and dad headed off--not to the corner, but to Target. Grandpa Crabby Pants (GCP), recovering from the plague, kept his distance--which I think was fine with him, as he is much more anxious to explain the difference between English and Metric sockets to GS (at a later date) than to participate in "burping". (Although GCP could probably give the kid a few pointers on this topic) GCP took pictures, and attempted to learn how to send them with his blackberry...which was funny, considering his professed techno-savyiness, and limited success--but that is a story for another day.
GS, of course, wonderful. And amazingly, I did not need a hazzmat suit to handle this little one (unlike my memories of my own children!) He does not spit up, projectile vomit, and did not leak while I was his caregiver. This kid is a piece of cake!!!
GS and I cuddled, danced, swayed, got dressed, swaddled, talked, posed for pictures, snuggled, looked out the window, re-swaddled, walked and rocked. (On the advice of my children, we did not sing...)Finally, we burped (although I think it was more accidental than deliberate.) Of course, the one thing he wanted more than anything was away at the Target--and I empathized while he grumbled a little.
Just as Mom and Dad pulled into the drive, he stopped fighting it, and drifted off to sleep. A deep, contented, I am secure, full, comfy, and all is right with my world, baby sleep. Mom and dad returned triumphantly with a baby swing and a papoose pack--because as the parents, they must get other things done (like sleep and laundry) and they (unlike grandmothers) do not feel that they can hold the little munchkin 24/7. And in their defense, and the defense of parents everywhere, neither did grandmothers when they were the mom..but we can now, and do, and will continue to do so, because we get the chance to, and of course get to go home and sleep!
We took Dad to dinner, and brought back a turkey avocado sandwich for mom at her request---GS was still soundly sleeping---a full two hours! Mom could not believe it,and had just performed the "mirror under the nostrils test"---to make sure he was still breathing!!!
Mom marveled at the "soundly sleeping", and thinks that I should be there at midnight!!! I was thrilled that babies are still "low tech", and that my data bank was intact and still useful after all these years!
And apparently, GS feels dealing with your grandmother is exhausting!!!
Thursday, September 03, 2009
A community of knitters
I have a lot of "kitting friends"--people who speak a sub-language known only to those who enjoy the craft. Some, I have never met face to face. Others are my coffee house acquaintances. Still others, share my love of turning yarn into something warm and wonderful.
They are all ages, these knitting friends. A young mom, the retired, degreed and not, from near and far. We share a love of the fiber, and appreciation for finely balanced needles, and the challenge of figuring out cryptic directions. We knit for others, for charity, for ourselves. We admire the work of others and share tips and techniques.
Knitting---who knew it would lead to "social networking" !!!!
They are all ages, these knitting friends. A young mom, the retired, degreed and not, from near and far. We share a love of the fiber, and appreciation for finely balanced needles, and the challenge of figuring out cryptic directions. We knit for others, for charity, for ourselves. We admire the work of others and share tips and techniques.
Knitting---who knew it would lead to "social networking" !!!!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Immortality
Long awaited bio GC #1 was born Tuesday. A beautiful boy. Miraculous in every way---and just as awesome as his father, aunts and uncle were when they arrived. Being the grandma is a new experience--and experience is what you have going for you as a grandma---and perhaps more affluence that when you were the mom.
So, day 4, I got a "smile". Some may say it is "gas" or random facial muscle moves, but I am convinced that it was a real genuine human interaction "smile"... We have had three substantive conversations, J and I---because auditory stimulation is important, and my prior experience with dementia allows me to have one sided conversations---except that in our third conversation was not one sided. I got facial muscle movements, eye contact, and then--the smile.
If he wasn't already my fav GC, that sealed it. Babies have a way of winning you over--in an instant! The DNA lives on--my link to the future.
You realize how much you learned while being a parent when you have a new grandchild---and you have the luxury of sitting back and enjoying the ride!!!
So, day 4, I got a "smile". Some may say it is "gas" or random facial muscle moves, but I am convinced that it was a real genuine human interaction "smile"... We have had three substantive conversations, J and I---because auditory stimulation is important, and my prior experience with dementia allows me to have one sided conversations---except that in our third conversation was not one sided. I got facial muscle movements, eye contact, and then--the smile.
If he wasn't already my fav GC, that sealed it. Babies have a way of winning you over--in an instant! The DNA lives on--my link to the future.
You realize how much you learned while being a parent when you have a new grandchild---and you have the luxury of sitting back and enjoying the ride!!!
Sunday, August 09, 2009
I was not complaining......
that our summer has been unseasonable cool! It has been delightfully in the 70's most of the summer---and at times a little cooler. I thrive in these temps! I was enjoying the weather--sweater to start the day (a knitters dream!), ditched by 2 o'clock! Nice breezes! Perfect.
Today is what summer usually is---90+/90+ degrees and humidity!! Yetch! We are behind schedule on the porch re-screening because of the torrential rains yesterday---so have had to do double today!! (Despite the best of plans, we end up exhausted trying to finish on Sunday!!) "I am sweaty" does not begin to describe what it is like to be doing this in what seems like a tropical swamp (we have a lot of decorative tall grasses around the porch---or rather had)!
We are on the home stretch--but not done yet! Waiting for the "cooler" evening to trim it out---the last step. It looks very nice, and the combination of a larger viewing area and no holes (!) is exciting! Cleaning up the mess is not exciting!
After today--only three more panels to go!!! Will be done by labor day (hopefully!) And the project of the summer gets done this year!! And we are still married!!
Today is what summer usually is---90+/90+ degrees and humidity!! Yetch! We are behind schedule on the porch re-screening because of the torrential rains yesterday---so have had to do double today!! (Despite the best of plans, we end up exhausted trying to finish on Sunday!!) "I am sweaty" does not begin to describe what it is like to be doing this in what seems like a tropical swamp (we have a lot of decorative tall grasses around the porch---or rather had)!
We are on the home stretch--but not done yet! Waiting for the "cooler" evening to trim it out---the last step. It looks very nice, and the combination of a larger viewing area and no holes (!) is exciting! Cleaning up the mess is not exciting!
After today--only three more panels to go!!! Will be done by labor day (hopefully!) And the project of the summer gets done this year!! And we are still married!!
Friday, August 07, 2009
The early bird...
Gets a lot done! This is another "unpaid time off" day--long story. I got up early, got ready, cleaned the house, and was out the door in search of a bargain by 8:30. It turns out while I am at work, other people can be at the store with the special before the doors open, get the 50% off items that they want, check out, and be back in their car about the same time the store is supposed to open.
It was my first "open, open, open" experience---very satisfying!
Next on the list was a new passport picture. Not that I am going anywhere, but mine is going to expire this year, and you never know, something may come up. The last two have been terrible! This is better, but the way they take them, makes you look not at all like what you think you look like. But mission accomplished in less than 10 minutes--parking, checking in, click, processing, selecting, and printing....turns out that 9:05 is a terrific time to have your passport picture taken quickly!!!
In less than an hour I am back home--mission accomplished!! Amazing what you can get done when you do not work!!!
I loaded the dishwasher, cleaned the stove, watered the plants, took out the trash, and moved the lawn ornamentation out of the way so the porch project could move forward---waiting for my friend, E. to arrive so we can go to the outlet mall!
I will not overburden you with the details, but it was a successful trip and yummy lunch!!! Turns out people who do not work meet their friends, and find bargains, and have yummy lunches!!
So, it was a great day! Had fun. Came home and helped Mr. CP demo one side of the porch, and re-frame the three openings for re-screening!!
I am still marveling at what I accomplished because I did not go to work today!! Of course I could not do this everyday if I did not work--as would soon run out of space in my house, or money, or both!!.....but it does give me hopes that my house will be cleaner after I retire!!!
It was my first "open, open, open" experience---very satisfying!
Next on the list was a new passport picture. Not that I am going anywhere, but mine is going to expire this year, and you never know, something may come up. The last two have been terrible! This is better, but the way they take them, makes you look not at all like what you think you look like. But mission accomplished in less than 10 minutes--parking, checking in, click, processing, selecting, and printing....turns out that 9:05 is a terrific time to have your passport picture taken quickly!!!
In less than an hour I am back home--mission accomplished!! Amazing what you can get done when you do not work!!!
I loaded the dishwasher, cleaned the stove, watered the plants, took out the trash, and moved the lawn ornamentation out of the way so the porch project could move forward---waiting for my friend, E. to arrive so we can go to the outlet mall!
I will not overburden you with the details, but it was a successful trip and yummy lunch!!! Turns out people who do not work meet their friends, and find bargains, and have yummy lunches!!
So, it was a great day! Had fun. Came home and helped Mr. CP demo one side of the porch, and re-frame the three openings for re-screening!!
I am still marveling at what I accomplished because I did not go to work today!! Of course I could not do this everyday if I did not work--as would soon run out of space in my house, or money, or both!!.....but it does give me hopes that my house will be cleaner after I retire!!!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
5 weeks and counting....
To grandparenthood!
The shower for "10" was yesterday. Wow! They sure got a lot of baby stuff---it completely filled the commander, with one item left behind to be retrieved later. I think they have what they need. Crib, mattress, changing table (courtesy of the other grandma) two strollers (one big for walking the dog and trips to town, one for the trunk for impulse trips), a pack and play, diaper bags, nursery textiles, books, clothes, a bumbo (hilarious item--wish I was making money from it!), a travel bed, bassinet, creams and lotions, blankets, burpies, bibs, bottles, bouncy jumper thingy, toys, and more. Today they are disassembling "the office" to begin to make it "10"'s room.
Mom and baby doing well. I know that this final month will seem like forever to the parents, but will fly by.
I can't wait to shop for pink or blue---to know the name (which they wisely have chosen not to divulge) to see what the little munchkin looks like, to cuddle the little fuzzy head, smell the sweat baby smell......loved the newborn phase with my kids---before they could say "no", or roll their eyes, or complain about me. When the were content to snooze cradled in you arms. I know I will be looking for "2" in the tiny face, or searching for a resemblance to 1, 3, or 4. My genetic link to the future.
So, I am one of the last of my friends to become a grandmother. Everyone says that the first is special, although I think that all I am fortunate enough to have will be pretty special. Maybe it is special because you are assured that your DNA will continue. Maybe it is special because you can hand them back to the parent when you are tired of them. But maybe it is special because you know more now, about babies and life, than you did when you first became a parent. You know it is all survivable!
So, I am ready. Have pink and blue knitting completed and waiting. Am confident that the parents now have what they need to provide a great start for my grandbaby--except for some diapers (which they have promised to acquire!) Hope all goes well with the birth. Know 2 will be a great dad.
It is so much easier to be the grandma....no wonder my friends highly recommend it!!
The shower for "10" was yesterday. Wow! They sure got a lot of baby stuff---it completely filled the commander, with one item left behind to be retrieved later. I think they have what they need. Crib, mattress, changing table (courtesy of the other grandma) two strollers (one big for walking the dog and trips to town, one for the trunk for impulse trips), a pack and play, diaper bags, nursery textiles, books, clothes, a bumbo (hilarious item--wish I was making money from it!), a travel bed, bassinet, creams and lotions, blankets, burpies, bibs, bottles, bouncy jumper thingy, toys, and more. Today they are disassembling "the office" to begin to make it "10"'s room.
Mom and baby doing well. I know that this final month will seem like forever to the parents, but will fly by.
I can't wait to shop for pink or blue---to know the name (which they wisely have chosen not to divulge) to see what the little munchkin looks like, to cuddle the little fuzzy head, smell the sweat baby smell......loved the newborn phase with my kids---before they could say "no", or roll their eyes, or complain about me. When the were content to snooze cradled in you arms. I know I will be looking for "2" in the tiny face, or searching for a resemblance to 1, 3, or 4. My genetic link to the future.
So, I am one of the last of my friends to become a grandmother. Everyone says that the first is special, although I think that all I am fortunate enough to have will be pretty special. Maybe it is special because you are assured that your DNA will continue. Maybe it is special because you can hand them back to the parent when you are tired of them. But maybe it is special because you know more now, about babies and life, than you did when you first became a parent. You know it is all survivable!
So, I am ready. Have pink and blue knitting completed and waiting. Am confident that the parents now have what they need to provide a great start for my grandbaby--except for some diapers (which they have promised to acquire!) Hope all goes well with the birth. Know 2 will be a great dad.
It is so much easier to be the grandma....no wonder my friends highly recommend it!!
Friday, July 03, 2009
More features than a swiss army knife!
Last week, 1 called me in the middle of the day---as she ran screaming from the large infant/child everything store! She was overwhelmed! 1 had obtained the baby registry for 2 and wife---with every intent of obtaining an appropriate shower gift. She left with only one small thing, as the overload of features, products, and "stuff" kicked in her ADD!
Today I took a look online at a "pack and Play"--the "essential" that every baby must have. It is basically what, in my mothering days, was called a "through the door" playpen---slightly larger and more PC than putting your toddler into a dog crate. A very useful piece of child containment equipment---I loved my "play pens"!, and 1, 2, 3, and 4 had no other choice!!
The "new and improved" version of the play pen, is touted for its portability. Probably a good feature, as a play pen required a large moving van to take anywhere. Of course with 4 kids, I rarely went anywhere, so it was not so much of a problem.
Then, it gets ridiculous---night lights, vibrations, sleeping shelf, bassinet with hood, changing table, wipes storage (sorry, no warmer)! Diaper stacker.....the Swiss army knife of baby gear!!! I think it has soothing sounds and rocking motions---I wonder if it breast feeds too!! How handy! You only need one thing, and it does everything!! (probably too much!)
The interesting thing in the on-line product reviews is that no one has ever packed the thing up---the new parents talk about it, just say they haven't done it yet....so although technology marches on, and the playpen has been elevated to new levels---it seems it is still rare to take the baby and its equipment anywhere---just easier to stay at home!!! Wonder if the thing has an I pod jack???????
Today I took a look online at a "pack and Play"--the "essential" that every baby must have. It is basically what, in my mothering days, was called a "through the door" playpen---slightly larger and more PC than putting your toddler into a dog crate. A very useful piece of child containment equipment---I loved my "play pens"!, and 1, 2, 3, and 4 had no other choice!!
The "new and improved" version of the play pen, is touted for its portability. Probably a good feature, as a play pen required a large moving van to take anywhere. Of course with 4 kids, I rarely went anywhere, so it was not so much of a problem.
Then, it gets ridiculous---night lights, vibrations, sleeping shelf, bassinet with hood, changing table, wipes storage (sorry, no warmer)! Diaper stacker.....the Swiss army knife of baby gear!!! I think it has soothing sounds and rocking motions---I wonder if it breast feeds too!! How handy! You only need one thing, and it does everything!! (probably too much!)
The interesting thing in the on-line product reviews is that no one has ever packed the thing up---the new parents talk about it, just say they haven't done it yet....so although technology marches on, and the playpen has been elevated to new levels---it seems it is still rare to take the baby and its equipment anywhere---just easier to stay at home!!! Wonder if the thing has an I pod jack???????
Sunday, June 28, 2009
In Memory of Margaret
Margaret was my "friend". We met several years ago, brought together by knitting and a desire to knit among other knitters. We both somehow ended up at the same coffee house knitting group--friends who would perhaps have never otherwise even met.
When we first met, Margaret had just retired. We worked in the same "industry", but our paths had never crossed. Our relationship was one of convenience and shared interest, limited to the Wednesday nights our paths crossed, but that does not diminish it's value.
Margaret was a person with convictions and opinions, who was not afraid to let you know what she thought. We debated current events, world problems, the news, politics, religion, and the virtues of different yarns. Margaret was enthusiastic--and not afraid to try new things. If it did not work out, or did not continue to interest her, she found a new home for it and moved on--unburdened, but richer for having tried. We shared a love of rings, antiques, and family. Margaret was funny and fun, and I will miss her.
She was a charitable person, quietly making sure that others had what they needed. She knew what she wanted--and once went to the mat over a bizarre pink pig in a tutu at a Christmas party--determined it would be hers at all costs during the white elephant exchange! She enthusiastically embraced knitting games at Knit Michigan, not to win, but to have fun along the way. That was the way Margaret lived her life.
Margaret had developed some health problems, and was frustrated that despite all she tried, things did not get better. She give the honest try, but when things did not work out, moved on--living her life, loving her grandchildren, and taking a class to improve her knitting. We all knew that she was not feeling well. That the Dr's. could not seem to find a cure that worked for what ailed her, or even really identify what was causing her symptoms. That slowed her down a little, but did not stop her.
The last time I saw Margaret, she came to knitting, despite being in pain. She was very uncomfortable, and frustrated that the medical community could not find out what was wrong, nor could they provide relief. They thought she had dislocated her ribs. In just a few weeks, she was dead. The victim of pancreatic cancer, diagnosed shortly before her death. Would it have mattered if she had known this diagnosis sooner? Probably not. She was uncomfortable, but spared the false hope and rigors of cancer treatments, to arrive at the same end.
Margaret will be missed. She was boisterous, sometimes bawdy, opinionated, and had a heart of gold. She enhanced us all for having known her unselfish spirit and giving nature. Margaret was one of my knitting friends and I am fortunate to have known her.
When we first met, Margaret had just retired. We worked in the same "industry", but our paths had never crossed. Our relationship was one of convenience and shared interest, limited to the Wednesday nights our paths crossed, but that does not diminish it's value.
Margaret was a person with convictions and opinions, who was not afraid to let you know what she thought. We debated current events, world problems, the news, politics, religion, and the virtues of different yarns. Margaret was enthusiastic--and not afraid to try new things. If it did not work out, or did not continue to interest her, she found a new home for it and moved on--unburdened, but richer for having tried. We shared a love of rings, antiques, and family. Margaret was funny and fun, and I will miss her.
She was a charitable person, quietly making sure that others had what they needed. She knew what she wanted--and once went to the mat over a bizarre pink pig in a tutu at a Christmas party--determined it would be hers at all costs during the white elephant exchange! She enthusiastically embraced knitting games at Knit Michigan, not to win, but to have fun along the way. That was the way Margaret lived her life.
Margaret had developed some health problems, and was frustrated that despite all she tried, things did not get better. She give the honest try, but when things did not work out, moved on--living her life, loving her grandchildren, and taking a class to improve her knitting. We all knew that she was not feeling well. That the Dr's. could not seem to find a cure that worked for what ailed her, or even really identify what was causing her symptoms. That slowed her down a little, but did not stop her.
The last time I saw Margaret, she came to knitting, despite being in pain. She was very uncomfortable, and frustrated that the medical community could not find out what was wrong, nor could they provide relief. They thought she had dislocated her ribs. In just a few weeks, she was dead. The victim of pancreatic cancer, diagnosed shortly before her death. Would it have mattered if she had known this diagnosis sooner? Probably not. She was uncomfortable, but spared the false hope and rigors of cancer treatments, to arrive at the same end.
Margaret will be missed. She was boisterous, sometimes bawdy, opinionated, and had a heart of gold. She enhanced us all for having known her unselfish spirit and giving nature. Margaret was one of my knitting friends and I am fortunate to have known her.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Unscientific Survey
In a suburb, outside Detroit, I had to wait for Mr. Pants to buy his lettuce. It was a large Mega-discount store---groceries, stuff--One stop and you can buy everything--soup, a tent, garden plants, and a shirt! I waited on the side of the garden center, as apparently looking for flowers takes much less time than lettuce shopping.
I started to watch the cars that were pulling in... Chrysler products. Fords. General Motors cars of all kinds......and it became rapidly apparent that anyone who thinks that the Americans who shop at this mega-discount store want small fuel efficient vehicles, have not looked around this parking lot. BIG horn trucks, more- power Vettes, SUV's, JEEPS! I saw three Honda's about one in 10-15 ratio to the American cars--older silver Hondas-- driven by older women. There were large Buick's--mostly Burgundy in color, Chevy's of every description---lots of Ford sedans, SUV's, and those ugly "new" metallic trim clad station wagons.
Now, one could say it is Detroit--home of the big three---but this occurred miles from Detroit. These are "discount" shoppers---sort of everyday Americans. They were shopping, so probably still have jobs. They seem uninterested in little, uninterested in foreign, uninterested in hybrids.....
So, Washington, maybe this is an aberration unique to this area......or you guys in DC do not know any "real" American consumers.......
This could get interesting!
I started to watch the cars that were pulling in... Chrysler products. Fords. General Motors cars of all kinds......and it became rapidly apparent that anyone who thinks that the Americans who shop at this mega-discount store want small fuel efficient vehicles, have not looked around this parking lot. BIG horn trucks, more- power Vettes, SUV's, JEEPS! I saw three Honda's about one in 10-15 ratio to the American cars--older silver Hondas-- driven by older women. There were large Buick's--mostly Burgundy in color, Chevy's of every description---lots of Ford sedans, SUV's, and those ugly "new" metallic trim clad station wagons.
Now, one could say it is Detroit--home of the big three---but this occurred miles from Detroit. These are "discount" shoppers---sort of everyday Americans. They were shopping, so probably still have jobs. They seem uninterested in little, uninterested in foreign, uninterested in hybrids.....
So, Washington, maybe this is an aberration unique to this area......or you guys in DC do not know any "real" American consumers.......
This could get interesting!
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
You did not ask what size they were!
It was early, sort of dark, and as usual Mr. Crabby Pants had waited until morning to pack for his trip.....what color are these? Blue or black! Identification occurred. Turned out the color was correct....size however belonged to oldest son--a slight difference.
Next time, look at size and color!! Or remember that you bought your son pants just like yours!!! Can only imagine the "noise" when trying to get dressed in someone elses new pants!
Next time, look at size and color!! Or remember that you bought your son pants just like yours!!! Can only imagine the "noise" when trying to get dressed in someone elses new pants!
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Suspect
Apparently the TSA must inspect suspicious luggage. On a recent trip, I bought two knitting books, was given a candle, and had the usual assortment of cosmetics and Rx. I decided that I did not want to drag the weight around through the airport, so carefully packed the books flat in the center of my suitcase, nestled between the newly purchased blouse and the bag of laundry. Then I added the lint roller, hand cream, candle, curling iron, cosmetics in baggies, and my nightgown. Somehow, this combo triggered the suspicious search. I know, I know. Mr. CP does not check luggage.....
I know that a condition of flying is that if you check luggage it could be searched. I am o.k. with that. But searching is a different thing than "rummaging". Although I cannot imagine digging through other peoples stuff in suitcases, I would have appreciated that the person neatly return things to the suitcase. Apparently the books were the offending items---removed from their protective bags and crunched on the top of my now disorganized "stuff". Maybe they were expecting something more interesting or exotic??? Maybe they thought that I had subversive ingredients? They could have put it back the way it was--not matter how disappointed or disguisted they were.
Really, a lint roller, some knitting books, and a candle are pretty dangerous....but next time, I will leave the candle behind!
I know that a condition of flying is that if you check luggage it could be searched. I am o.k. with that. But searching is a different thing than "rummaging". Although I cannot imagine digging through other peoples stuff in suitcases, I would have appreciated that the person neatly return things to the suitcase. Apparently the books were the offending items---removed from their protective bags and crunched on the top of my now disorganized "stuff". Maybe they were expecting something more interesting or exotic??? Maybe they thought that I had subversive ingredients? They could have put it back the way it was--not matter how disappointed or disguisted they were.
Really, a lint roller, some knitting books, and a candle are pretty dangerous....but next time, I will leave the candle behind!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Spending Other People's Money
Or...we did our part to stimulate the economy!!
M1 came home so that we could shop for a dress for "the" wedding. We got six! A national retailer near my home was having a 40% off sale--so four Jones NY went in the bag at really good prices! Retro-60's style sheaths--sun dress, and (although it looked absolutely stunning) a sexy hankie skirt dress that will probably be returned. On to the Mall!!! One dress at each "upscale" retailer--but with coupons! My fav will probably be returned---I love the colors. Other, very similar dress with less "cleavage" is, according to M1 "the one".
Then--the IKEA pilgrimage...I bought a cool garden bag for my knitting, as it stands up on it's own, and two of their great $1.50 shopping bags, because they are pretty and I like them. M1 bought stuff for work and home.
Then lunch! M1 wanted Mexican---and they left off the onions on my cheese and onion enchilada--that I had asked for extra onion on----although M1 was slightly annoyed that I complained (I figure that if I do not point out the problem, they cannot fix it!!) I did get an adjustment on my bill. (and out waiter reaped the benefit).
Then to a discount chain to obtain more shirts to be embroidered for the wedding.....long story.
On to Trader Joes, because you just cannot find their good stuff where M1 lives.
Our last stop was at the lingerie store--to get the right foundation garment for "the Dress" M1 found 4! that fit. Every woman's dream come true!! Everyone needs a bra fitter!! It changes your entire outlook on life.
So, I spent about $10 plus lunch. M1 spent about 10X that, and got a "free" lunch. J dog had a good time visiting Mr. Cat (more like tormenting him with his very existence) and got to romp and play with the deer excrement in the back yard.
We are almost ready for the wedding---20 some days and counting!
M1 came home so that we could shop for a dress for "the" wedding. We got six! A national retailer near my home was having a 40% off sale--so four Jones NY went in the bag at really good prices! Retro-60's style sheaths--sun dress, and (although it looked absolutely stunning) a sexy hankie skirt dress that will probably be returned. On to the Mall!!! One dress at each "upscale" retailer--but with coupons! My fav will probably be returned---I love the colors. Other, very similar dress with less "cleavage" is, according to M1 "the one".
Then--the IKEA pilgrimage...I bought a cool garden bag for my knitting, as it stands up on it's own, and two of their great $1.50 shopping bags, because they are pretty and I like them. M1 bought stuff for work and home.
Then lunch! M1 wanted Mexican---and they left off the onions on my cheese and onion enchilada--that I had asked for extra onion on----although M1 was slightly annoyed that I complained (I figure that if I do not point out the problem, they cannot fix it!!) I did get an adjustment on my bill. (and out waiter reaped the benefit).
Then to a discount chain to obtain more shirts to be embroidered for the wedding.....long story.
On to Trader Joes, because you just cannot find their good stuff where M1 lives.
Our last stop was at the lingerie store--to get the right foundation garment for "the Dress" M1 found 4! that fit. Every woman's dream come true!! Everyone needs a bra fitter!! It changes your entire outlook on life.
So, I spent about $10 plus lunch. M1 spent about 10X that, and got a "free" lunch. J dog had a good time visiting Mr. Cat (more like tormenting him with his very existence) and got to romp and play with the deer excrement in the back yard.
We are almost ready for the wedding---20 some days and counting!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Let there be light!
Yesterday the tree guys came. We have enoromous 200 year old oak trees on the property that were getting a little "dangerous". Oaks have branches that die--all the time. But when they are huge, it can be a problem. And earlier this winter, the wind took down the victims of the ash borer---so we needed the tree guy.
They cut and trimmed and took away the debris! Now you can see the house even! A walk up the drive seems more "cathederal like"--less likely to get poked with a stick!! And the UPS man will be thrilled that our trees will no longer beat up his truck.
The sun is shining, and more of our yard can see it today--and the Oaks look happier--without the dead wood! Which is I suppose where--getting rid of the dead wood comes from!
They cut and trimmed and took away the debris! Now you can see the house even! A walk up the drive seems more "cathederal like"--less likely to get poked with a stick!! And the UPS man will be thrilled that our trees will no longer beat up his truck.
The sun is shining, and more of our yard can see it today--and the Oaks look happier--without the dead wood! Which is I suppose where--getting rid of the dead wood comes from!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Faith Restored
Every once in awhile your faith in the goodness of mankind is restored.
After the stolen pizza and drive away stolen groceries I was beginning to think that the world was headed in the wrong direction.
Someone at the national retailer where my car pool parks has restored my optimism about the basic good. They found my keys, that had fallen out of my bag as we rushed through the dark to make it to our van pool. They turned them into the lost and found.
I did not know they were gone of course until I returned home from work. Thought perhaps I had left them in my office---fortunately, had a spare key! Looked in the van, and then when I arrived at my office this morning, I was disappointed to see that I had just not carelessly left them in my desk. I asked my car pool buddy to dig through her car later---maybe they fell out there.
Then, in my "retrace your steps" mode, I chanced a call to the retailer--thankful that I had not driven yesterday--but then, if I had, I would have had my keys in my hands and they would not be "lost". I was amazed when the young man on the phone said , yep, they are here!
So--to the person who found my keys in the employee lot on 3/11 thank you for turning them in. I appreciate that I do not have to buy a new key, and rekey all my locks. I am relieved that I do not have to worry that someone had a key to my car. But most of all, I am delighted to know that people are still "nice".
After the stolen pizza and drive away stolen groceries I was beginning to think that the world was headed in the wrong direction.
Someone at the national retailer where my car pool parks has restored my optimism about the basic good. They found my keys, that had fallen out of my bag as we rushed through the dark to make it to our van pool. They turned them into the lost and found.
I did not know they were gone of course until I returned home from work. Thought perhaps I had left them in my office---fortunately, had a spare key! Looked in the van, and then when I arrived at my office this morning, I was disappointed to see that I had just not carelessly left them in my desk. I asked my car pool buddy to dig through her car later---maybe they fell out there.
Then, in my "retrace your steps" mode, I chanced a call to the retailer--thankful that I had not driven yesterday--but then, if I had, I would have had my keys in my hands and they would not be "lost". I was amazed when the young man on the phone said , yep, they are here!
So--to the person who found my keys in the employee lot on 3/11 thank you for turning them in. I appreciate that I do not have to buy a new key, and rekey all my locks. I am relieved that I do not have to worry that someone had a key to my car. But most of all, I am delighted to know that people are still "nice".
Sunday, March 08, 2009
60
On Friday it was 60 degrees! For those in Miami it is winter coat weather. Here it is practically take off your shoes and dance in the street weather---at least this year. There was still snow here and there. But the sun was shining---and everyone came our of their cubicles and stood around basking in the sun.
Coats were strangely absent. Sunglasses appeared again. People walked slowly--face to the sun, enjoying the reprieve from winter. There were groups just standing around talking---where the huge piles of snow had been accumulating all winter. There was a "sidewalk" sale at the Hallmark Store--a hastily conviened table of one of-a-kind and odd items labeled "Stuff for a Buck"---encouraging brisk a business!
But underlying all of this hopefulness is the weigh of economic uncertainty. The Dollar Store boasts a hand lettered sign "Closing Sale--all wall items 25% off". No one was buying anything--even for 75 cents. Diners were once again parked at the wrought iron tables inside the corrals at the eateries--but they were ordering the soup and 1/2 sandwich or salad specials--not the pricer items that used to be everyday fare.
I decided to prolong my interaction with the sun, and walked several blocks to a pizza establishment. Ordered, paid, waited. At one point I thought they called my name, but when I approached the window, the employee looked , and shook his head---I much have hear incorrectly (it was noisy, and crowded with high school kids on a field trip). I returned to my table, and my puzzle......but after a longer time, noticed that those who ordered long after me were picking up their orders. I approach again, and ask about my order---which is clearly in the computer, and no where to be found. After much discussion about this puzzlement, the manager was called, and it was decided that they needed to remake my pizza---that someone else had picked it up! Fortunately, I was not done with the puzzle--and they gave me a "free pizza". (Hastilly cooked, that was about what it was worth).
A sign of the times, I guess. A pizza nabber---walked up and walked off with my order in the chaos of noon at the pizza place. Free lunch!! The second time in a week that I had experienced someone creatively "nabbing" something from a retail establishment. All of the brightness of spring cannot hide the darker side of our current economy. People who used to pay $5.00 for a personal pizza take one instead.
People desparate for groceries "drive away" at the self check lane.....and the merchants, already percariously near loosing their shirts, must pass on the losses to everyone else---who are opting for the less expensive items to make ends meet.
Economics 101 on a sunny day downtown.....optimistic about the weather, pesimistic about the economy!
Coats were strangely absent. Sunglasses appeared again. People walked slowly--face to the sun, enjoying the reprieve from winter. There were groups just standing around talking---where the huge piles of snow had been accumulating all winter. There was a "sidewalk" sale at the Hallmark Store--a hastily conviened table of one of-a-kind and odd items labeled "Stuff for a Buck"---encouraging brisk a business!
But underlying all of this hopefulness is the weigh of economic uncertainty. The Dollar Store boasts a hand lettered sign "Closing Sale--all wall items 25% off". No one was buying anything--even for 75 cents. Diners were once again parked at the wrought iron tables inside the corrals at the eateries--but they were ordering the soup and 1/2 sandwich or salad specials--not the pricer items that used to be everyday fare.
I decided to prolong my interaction with the sun, and walked several blocks to a pizza establishment. Ordered, paid, waited. At one point I thought they called my name, but when I approached the window, the employee looked , and shook his head---I much have hear incorrectly (it was noisy, and crowded with high school kids on a field trip). I returned to my table, and my puzzle......but after a longer time, noticed that those who ordered long after me were picking up their orders. I approach again, and ask about my order---which is clearly in the computer, and no where to be found. After much discussion about this puzzlement, the manager was called, and it was decided that they needed to remake my pizza---that someone else had picked it up! Fortunately, I was not done with the puzzle--and they gave me a "free pizza". (Hastilly cooked, that was about what it was worth).
A sign of the times, I guess. A pizza nabber---walked up and walked off with my order in the chaos of noon at the pizza place. Free lunch!! The second time in a week that I had experienced someone creatively "nabbing" something from a retail establishment. All of the brightness of spring cannot hide the darker side of our current economy. People who used to pay $5.00 for a personal pizza take one instead.
People desparate for groceries "drive away" at the self check lane.....and the merchants, already percariously near loosing their shirts, must pass on the losses to everyone else---who are opting for the less expensive items to make ends meet.
Economics 101 on a sunny day downtown.....optimistic about the weather, pesimistic about the economy!
Friday, February 06, 2009
What's in a name?
A Rose by any other.....
But our names are somewhat important, despite Shakespeare's thoughts. We are 3 for 3 on the wedding invites---3 family members, 3 "wrong names".....sigh! And I did send them correctly.
Mispellings are one thing.....Hope Albert has not been married to Shirley!!!!
It will be funny---later!
But our names are somewhat important, despite Shakespeare's thoughts. We are 3 for 3 on the wedding invites---3 family members, 3 "wrong names".....sigh! And I did send them correctly.
Mispellings are one thing.....Hope Albert has not been married to Shirley!!!!
It will be funny---later!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
Almost unstoppable!
Mr. CP declared it so! The day provided 14 inches of snow on which to test the unstoppability. The truck passed the test! He is much more pleased than with the prior vehicle. Score one for Dodge! It is the little things in life!
...and I finally made it to the post office!
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Wolle nervana!
Ulm, DE 2008/12/06
It is the Weihnachtsmarkt here in Ulm, but of greater interest to a knitter like me is the price of yarn at the Woole stores. Sock reinforcement yarn- USA $3.50, DE-.5 Euro!!!! Sock yarn: 6 Euros--$12-13 at home for the same stuff. I could live here...decent prices on yarn, good beer, and without study, my terrible, but adequate to engage in commerce, German is serving me well.
You know how we love bargains!!! ...and one of the bargains here is sock yarn! Interestingly though, no size "0" needles--and you would think that here people would need very tightly knit socks--as it is cold, and they spend a lot of time outside (you have to walk everywhere from the parkhaus in the sleet). But I have two more cities to look!!!
Ulm, the first stop on the great sock yarn acquisition mission of 2008!!!
P.S- Nice museum of bread (honest) and the tallest church spire in Europe too!!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Return to normal...
They have all left. Some sooner than others. M1 and J. left this morning. It is quiet--nice. Nothing is moving! Mr. Cat may come out of hiding soon. I must vacuum and put a few things back where they belong.
Always glad to see them come. Equally glad to have my house back after a few days. The deer are probably glad it is quiet too. J. found them quite annoying--he needed them to leave "his" territory!!
Now, On the the laundry, and the next adventures!
Always glad to see them come. Equally glad to have my house back after a few days. The deer are probably glad it is quiet too. J. found them quite annoying--he needed them to leave "his" territory!!
Now, On the the laundry, and the next adventures!
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thanksgiving gone to the dogs!
A. and J., grand puppies, with emphasis on "puppy" joined the fray for the big Turkey ingestion! Egged on by Z., we had pandemonium for much of the day, with litter mate like pack wrestling. WWF has nothing on these two! High maintenance, but cute as can be, they stole the show from the turkey--which was luscious, yummy, and worthy of a Rockwell painting (and I don't even like Turkey!)
As for black Friday, there is no interest. We all decided that there was nothing that we needed, wanted, couldn't live without, were willing to fight crowds for, or was such a deal that it could not be resisted. Sorry retailers. Maybe if you did not start your holiday hype in July, we would care more about a "Christmas Holiday Shopping Season". We are doing lots of "home and hand made" gifts anyway. Besides, the Internet is a wonderful place, where you can get almost anything without leaving home!
And there is pecan pie left--:)!
As for black Friday, there is no interest. We all decided that there was nothing that we needed, wanted, couldn't live without, were willing to fight crowds for, or was such a deal that it could not be resisted. Sorry retailers. Maybe if you did not start your holiday hype in July, we would care more about a "Christmas Holiday Shopping Season". We are doing lots of "home and hand made" gifts anyway. Besides, the Internet is a wonderful place, where you can get almost anything without leaving home!
And there is pecan pie left--:)!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Waiting Rooms
M1 had some surgery yesterday, and I was her "person". They will not let you have surgery without a "person"--hopefully a "responsible" one.
Once we checked in, we were taken upstairs to the surgery waiting room. The purpose of the waiting room was to have a place to wait--and if you are a knitter you already know this--they are a knitters dream come true! Absolutely nothing to do for hours, but sit and wait--allowing you to indulge in guilt-free knitting.
I had my "stuff"--a large bag with several projects from which to choose, and so that I would not be bored. Once they took M1 back to get ready, I added a bag of her "stuff"--which is where I think the responsible part came in. So, I had lots of time to work on my Christmas socks while we waited for them to actually take her to the surgery. Then, I was escorted back to the waiting room, pager in pocket, to wait some more.
The hospital was very efficient about periodic updates (unaware that a knitter was not at all concerned about how long this would take, and would not leave her rows to be a pest to the lady who seemed to be orchestrating the "waiters".) They regularly paged me about where we were in the process. I tired of the socks, pulled out a dish cloth, finished that, and returned to the socks before they summoned me to the recovery room. In the waiting room, (as well as others) I was the "knitting lady". Apparently, not that many people KIP in hospitals, as at times, I even had an audience.
As it turns out, there are not that many people who are good at waiting--or at least did not plan for the waiting. As a whole, they are a restless bunch.
There was cell phone addicted lap top man, dismayed that his mother had scheduled this for a Tuesday (he told several people on the phone that Tuesday was not a good day for him!---never mind that the mother was having the kind of surgery that seemed to required a visit by the priest--who spent more time with her than laptop boy. There was the lady who took off her shoes, curled up in the chair and tried her best to get engaged with the readers digest---but somehow just couldn't resist calling everyone she knew in between articles to help pass the time (because she certainly did not have anything of importance to say).
There were the groups---several. A brother, wife, and daughter for a knee replacement. A lady who was with her dad, but needed to be home by 2 for the cable guy. A bunch (about 6) who seemed to wander in and out, visiting some relative 2 at a time, they whole time chatting about how out of it she was (duh!) and the revenue the post office was trying to generate (?). There was the advanced directive couple, who apparently had enough time in the waiting area to contemplate their own fates, and summoned hospital personnel to help them fill out and get theirs witnessed.
There were the slouchy pants teen and is younger red-haired brother (about 12) who seemed never to have seen a hot water dispenser before, or was conducting some strange type of experiment with hot water and a paper cup out of boredom. Slouchy pants boy was only interested in the cookies--although complained that they did not have any really good ones (Lorna Doones and Cinnamon Grahams) a fact that did not seem to stop him from conspicuous consumption of the "icky" ones.
The waiting room had a coffee station--which was also irresistible to any hospital personnel walking past---so there was s steady stream of badged people dropping in to get a cup of something. I am sure that the in-house consumption far exceeded that consumed by the "waiters".
There were the matching mother and daughter waiting for someone---they spent their time leafing through the magazines.
The theme with all the waiters is that they had nothing to do --except to bother the lady at the desk--about stuff like --is there any news? (duh! You all have pagers too!) or will you keep this bag of stuff while I go to the cafeteria? Or other queries that the lady never seemed to have an answer for.
Since the whole point was to wait for the person having the surgery, I am amazed that these people seemed completely unprepared to wait. No one brought any type of amusement with them. Certainly the teens must have hand-held game things that are portable--or I pods, or (gasp) homework! No one brought a book. Only lap top boy brought work--but he was not so much interested in working as complaining that his mothers scheduling was preventing this---except that if he had stopped complaining about her, he probably could have gotten some work done in between the priests visits. There were the older people--some with adult children, who seemed to need something to pass the time, as it seemed to hang heavy for them. But no one seemed to have planned for the wait!
The winner/loser of the day was waffle man's daughter. She did not have to wait, as because he had taken two bites of waffle, they cancelled his surgery. She was also the loser, as she would have to do this all over again once he was rescheduled---except that next time she will have to hide all the waffles too!!
I don't know how the lady at the desk copes with this everyday---maybe they share some of the drugs from the surgery rooms with her--as she was surprisingly happy!!
Once we checked in, we were taken upstairs to the surgery waiting room. The purpose of the waiting room was to have a place to wait--and if you are a knitter you already know this--they are a knitters dream come true! Absolutely nothing to do for hours, but sit and wait--allowing you to indulge in guilt-free knitting.
I had my "stuff"--a large bag with several projects from which to choose, and so that I would not be bored. Once they took M1 back to get ready, I added a bag of her "stuff"--which is where I think the responsible part came in. So, I had lots of time to work on my Christmas socks while we waited for them to actually take her to the surgery. Then, I was escorted back to the waiting room, pager in pocket, to wait some more.
The hospital was very efficient about periodic updates (unaware that a knitter was not at all concerned about how long this would take, and would not leave her rows to be a pest to the lady who seemed to be orchestrating the "waiters".) They regularly paged me about where we were in the process. I tired of the socks, pulled out a dish cloth, finished that, and returned to the socks before they summoned me to the recovery room. In the waiting room, (as well as others) I was the "knitting lady". Apparently, not that many people KIP in hospitals, as at times, I even had an audience.
As it turns out, there are not that many people who are good at waiting--or at least did not plan for the waiting. As a whole, they are a restless bunch.
There was cell phone addicted lap top man, dismayed that his mother had scheduled this for a Tuesday (he told several people on the phone that Tuesday was not a good day for him!---never mind that the mother was having the kind of surgery that seemed to required a visit by the priest--who spent more time with her than laptop boy. There was the lady who took off her shoes, curled up in the chair and tried her best to get engaged with the readers digest---but somehow just couldn't resist calling everyone she knew in between articles to help pass the time (because she certainly did not have anything of importance to say).
There were the groups---several. A brother, wife, and daughter for a knee replacement. A lady who was with her dad, but needed to be home by 2 for the cable guy. A bunch (about 6) who seemed to wander in and out, visiting some relative 2 at a time, they whole time chatting about how out of it she was (duh!) and the revenue the post office was trying to generate (?). There was the advanced directive couple, who apparently had enough time in the waiting area to contemplate their own fates, and summoned hospital personnel to help them fill out and get theirs witnessed.
There were the slouchy pants teen and is younger red-haired brother (about 12) who seemed never to have seen a hot water dispenser before, or was conducting some strange type of experiment with hot water and a paper cup out of boredom. Slouchy pants boy was only interested in the cookies--although complained that they did not have any really good ones (Lorna Doones and Cinnamon Grahams) a fact that did not seem to stop him from conspicuous consumption of the "icky" ones.
The waiting room had a coffee station--which was also irresistible to any hospital personnel walking past---so there was s steady stream of badged people dropping in to get a cup of something. I am sure that the in-house consumption far exceeded that consumed by the "waiters".
There were the matching mother and daughter waiting for someone---they spent their time leafing through the magazines.
The theme with all the waiters is that they had nothing to do --except to bother the lady at the desk--about stuff like --is there any news? (duh! You all have pagers too!) or will you keep this bag of stuff while I go to the cafeteria? Or other queries that the lady never seemed to have an answer for.
Since the whole point was to wait for the person having the surgery, I am amazed that these people seemed completely unprepared to wait. No one brought any type of amusement with them. Certainly the teens must have hand-held game things that are portable--or I pods, or (gasp) homework! No one brought a book. Only lap top boy brought work--but he was not so much interested in working as complaining that his mothers scheduling was preventing this---except that if he had stopped complaining about her, he probably could have gotten some work done in between the priests visits. There were the older people--some with adult children, who seemed to need something to pass the time, as it seemed to hang heavy for them. But no one seemed to have planned for the wait!
The winner/loser of the day was waffle man's daughter. She did not have to wait, as because he had taken two bites of waffle, they cancelled his surgery. She was also the loser, as she would have to do this all over again once he was rescheduled---except that next time she will have to hide all the waffles too!!
I don't know how the lady at the desk copes with this everyday---maybe they share some of the drugs from the surgery rooms with her--as she was surprisingly happy!!
Monday, November 03, 2008
Radon no more
Today we "mitigated" our radon. It may not make a difference, but why take a chance.
So now I have less carcinogen in my house, and a flying saucer on the outside!!! Not exactly a home improvement that your friends will be impressed to see, but useful none the less. Ready for resale too!!
So now I have less carcinogen in my house, and a flying saucer on the outside!!! Not exactly a home improvement that your friends will be impressed to see, but useful none the less. Ready for resale too!!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
A number between 1 and 100...
Number: a concept of quantity.
I have a new number! I have a new decade. My birthday ushers in more of "the best years" of my life. Never mind that each decade has successively been the best. My number now is 60.
I remember my mother at 60. She was "mature". I am also "mature", but not as old as I seem to remember her being at the time. She dyed her hair to hide the gray, to look "younger". I feel no need to. She enjoyed her life, and I plan to continue to. My kids probably think I am "old"--and I don't care! What you see is what you get.
There are many good things about being 60, not the least of which is to enjoy being 60! Many of my ancestors did not have this many years--victims of cancer, infections, violence. My passion for genealogy has intensified of late---I appreciate "history" as I acquire more of my own, and feel the need to document it, sorry that I did not acquire more of "my" history when those ancestors were here to just tell me about it--easier than the quest I now undertake. An yet, there were many many ancestors who lived well into the late 90's and a few to 100 in a time when it was much less likely to do so....so my goal, perhaps will be genetically enhanced!
I have had 60 good years. I plan to have at least 36-40 more. I have much left to do--some things formally on "the list", others yet to be determined. A little over half done, so to speak. Some will be my decisions, within my control. Others I am dependant upon others for---and hope it works out the way I would like!
Z. is currently obsessed with the "50's"--and I think he is secretly excited that he knows an "expert" on the decade of his interest, although he finds the concepts of "before TV", "party lines", and "before there were expressways" are hard to imagine.--I think he thinks the "50's" were a long time ago---to me seems like just yesterday that I practiced "duck and cover" under my desk at Washington Elementary, confident that the piece of 1/2 inch plywood over my head would protect me from the Russian invasion!--just a few years younger than he is now....
One of the very good things about being 60 is that History is not nearly as daunting as it seemed at 16! I now have command of the complexities of history, and the interaction of events--many of which I have witnessed! I know a lot--knowledge acquired formally and informally in contexts over time. I have a confidence that is lacking before 30--not that I wasn't confident at the time---but it is different now--a peaceful confidence, knowing who you are, what is important, and what you want. Knowing that there are natural cycles, knowing that whatever it is, this too will pass, you will get through it, and life will go on to be enjoyed! Knowing what is important, and what is not.
I remember a few birthdays--some memories enhanced by pictures made before color images were possible. My first roller skates--very grown up! Metal, ball bearings, dangerous, with a real skate key to hang around my neck! A ticket to "freedom" of motion!--Age 4 (what were my parents thinking?) Age 16, the drivers license! Confidence on the outside, fear inside!! 21--much ado about nothing, feeling slightly disappointed that on that day, as I was not any more of an "adult" than I had been the day before! 22, experiencing morning sickness for the first time (although I thought it was bad chicken!) Age: 31--3.9 children, station wagon, 4 bedroom colonial in a new subdivision, member of the PTA, my identity firmly centered in being "mom", although I had other slightly impressive credentials that seemed not to matter. 40--asking how I got here so fast? 50-secure in who I was, ready to wear red hats with purple dresses---and now 60. It is a more welcomed number than 30, 40....each decade unique, important, with challenges overcome, endured, or conquered...but not to be redone, as I life is on fast forward. There is no rewind!
I wish I could do a better job of conveying what it means to have lived this life. I watch "the four"--living their lives! I wish they could sort through it, discover what is really important, embrace who they are, be comfortable in their "self", but I know they do not yet have the years. Getting to the things that really matter--which is most likely not what they think these things are. We each have to learn this for ourselves, in our own time, from our own experience. The lucky ones, like me, have no regrets! I hope they don't.
Life is what happens when you are busy doing other things---an interesting concept, but not very useful to the young! So at the magic number of 60--my wisdom and advice is to "live"--not as in "live it up", "live in the moment", "live on the edge". I mean "live"--enjoy each moment, experience, opportunity, relationship. Accomplish the really important things--and don't let day-to-day living get in the way of creating a life! A life that you love, with people you love. Have no regrets.
"Live long and prosper"--I plan to continue to!
I have a new number! I have a new decade. My birthday ushers in more of "the best years" of my life. Never mind that each decade has successively been the best. My number now is 60.
I remember my mother at 60. She was "mature". I am also "mature", but not as old as I seem to remember her being at the time. She dyed her hair to hide the gray, to look "younger". I feel no need to. She enjoyed her life, and I plan to continue to. My kids probably think I am "old"--and I don't care! What you see is what you get.
There are many good things about being 60, not the least of which is to enjoy being 60! Many of my ancestors did not have this many years--victims of cancer, infections, violence. My passion for genealogy has intensified of late---I appreciate "history" as I acquire more of my own, and feel the need to document it, sorry that I did not acquire more of "my" history when those ancestors were here to just tell me about it--easier than the quest I now undertake. An yet, there were many many ancestors who lived well into the late 90's and a few to 100 in a time when it was much less likely to do so....so my goal, perhaps will be genetically enhanced!
I have had 60 good years. I plan to have at least 36-40 more. I have much left to do--some things formally on "the list", others yet to be determined. A little over half done, so to speak. Some will be my decisions, within my control. Others I am dependant upon others for---and hope it works out the way I would like!
Z. is currently obsessed with the "50's"--and I think he is secretly excited that he knows an "expert" on the decade of his interest, although he finds the concepts of "before TV", "party lines", and "before there were expressways" are hard to imagine.--I think he thinks the "50's" were a long time ago---to me seems like just yesterday that I practiced "duck and cover" under my desk at Washington Elementary, confident that the piece of 1/2 inch plywood over my head would protect me from the Russian invasion!--just a few years younger than he is now....
One of the very good things about being 60 is that History is not nearly as daunting as it seemed at 16! I now have command of the complexities of history, and the interaction of events--many of which I have witnessed! I know a lot--knowledge acquired formally and informally in contexts over time. I have a confidence that is lacking before 30--not that I wasn't confident at the time---but it is different now--a peaceful confidence, knowing who you are, what is important, and what you want. Knowing that there are natural cycles, knowing that whatever it is, this too will pass, you will get through it, and life will go on to be enjoyed! Knowing what is important, and what is not.
I remember a few birthdays--some memories enhanced by pictures made before color images were possible. My first roller skates--very grown up! Metal, ball bearings, dangerous, with a real skate key to hang around my neck! A ticket to "freedom" of motion!--Age 4 (what were my parents thinking?) Age 16, the drivers license! Confidence on the outside, fear inside!! 21--much ado about nothing, feeling slightly disappointed that on that day, as I was not any more of an "adult" than I had been the day before! 22, experiencing morning sickness for the first time (although I thought it was bad chicken!) Age: 31--3.9 children, station wagon, 4 bedroom colonial in a new subdivision, member of the PTA, my identity firmly centered in being "mom", although I had other slightly impressive credentials that seemed not to matter. 40--asking how I got here so fast? 50-secure in who I was, ready to wear red hats with purple dresses---and now 60. It is a more welcomed number than 30, 40....each decade unique, important, with challenges overcome, endured, or conquered...but not to be redone, as I life is on fast forward. There is no rewind!
I wish I could do a better job of conveying what it means to have lived this life. I watch "the four"--living their lives! I wish they could sort through it, discover what is really important, embrace who they are, be comfortable in their "self", but I know they do not yet have the years. Getting to the things that really matter--which is most likely not what they think these things are. We each have to learn this for ourselves, in our own time, from our own experience. The lucky ones, like me, have no regrets! I hope they don't.
Life is what happens when you are busy doing other things---an interesting concept, but not very useful to the young! So at the magic number of 60--my wisdom and advice is to "live"--not as in "live it up", "live in the moment", "live on the edge". I mean "live"--enjoy each moment, experience, opportunity, relationship. Accomplish the really important things--and don't let day-to-day living get in the way of creating a life! A life that you love, with people you love. Have no regrets.
"Live long and prosper"--I plan to continue to!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Checkin E-Bay for an Ark!!
Is is raining..and raining, raining, raining, raining. I don't remember ever getting this much rain in such a short time. We needed some rain--but not all at once. And the hurricane effect isn't even here yet!! And tornadoes---who gets tornados in September? At least the lake levels will go up!!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Sale!
Apparently today is the day that major home improvement retailers decide that summer is over, and it is time for the American public to stock up on firewood and space heaters. Because they need floor space for those, the summer stuff "must go". Today I made a killing on throw pillows for my porch (water and mold resistant!), a thermometer (now 79 cents!), another squirrel for my almost cute rodent collection (97 cents) and an outrageous resin rooster for my garden--significantly marked down (I can see why) to about what it was worth in the first place!
Delighted as I am with my purchases, it is a little sad that on a sunny 93 degree day in August, all the major national retailer can think of is snow shovels and stacks of ice melter. I still want to enjoy summer--and then fall! I don't want to think about ceramic space heaters, ice scrapers for my car, or a snowblower!!! Maybe this is why they are not selling stuff. They are out of season with what people want!!
Of course, in January, when you need a snowblower, they will be sold out, and filling the place with patio furniture that you would have to wear a parka to use!!!
I think I may be on to something here.....anyone want to pay me to be a consultant to major retailers????????
Delighted as I am with my purchases, it is a little sad that on a sunny 93 degree day in August, all the major national retailer can think of is snow shovels and stacks of ice melter. I still want to enjoy summer--and then fall! I don't want to think about ceramic space heaters, ice scrapers for my car, or a snowblower!!! Maybe this is why they are not selling stuff. They are out of season with what people want!!
Of course, in January, when you need a snowblower, they will be sold out, and filling the place with patio furniture that you would have to wear a parka to use!!!
I think I may be on to something here.....anyone want to pay me to be a consultant to major retailers????????
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Signs of things to come...
It was downright cold today--60's and damp. Quite a shocking change from the 80's and 90's of recent weeks. Had to go get some socks! It is darker in the mornings, dark sooner at night, and air is a little "nippy" for August.
We seem to be on our way to the next season....so much for global warming!!
We seem to be on our way to the next season....so much for global warming!!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Stuff
We have a lot of it. Maybe too much! I am dealing with stuff this week--at work (easier) and in my garage (slightly more challenging). Turns out I am not nearly as emotionally attached to my work stuff as I am to my years of family stuff.
I have to get my stuff under control--am making great progress. Motivated by a pending office relocation at work, and being able to park my car in the garage this winter!!! Know I will reach my goals on both fronts....
Now my home office........that is for another time!!!
I have to get my stuff under control--am making great progress. Motivated by a pending office relocation at work, and being able to park my car in the garage this winter!!! Know I will reach my goals on both fronts....
Now my home office........that is for another time!!!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The fix is worse that the problem
A recurrent theme this week it seems. First E and the "plague". Then the combination of updates and Internet security that messed everything up. Was on the phone with tech support for hours (honestly!). Now must reconfigure everything!!! At least I can access the Internet again!
On a brighter note, found some yarn in my stash to try out a new shawl pattern. Found a funky sundress on SALE! Both good.
Sadly, another death in the family....sadly, "less family", not sadly, the end of her personal torture of various natures....or at least Auntie L of the slippery pants thought that the afterlife would be so.....so this may not be the case of fix worse than problem, as dementia is a problem without fixes!
So, once again, a "funeralin' we will go"!!
On a brighter note, found some yarn in my stash to try out a new shawl pattern. Found a funky sundress on SALE! Both good.
Sadly, another death in the family....sadly, "less family", not sadly, the end of her personal torture of various natures....or at least Auntie L of the slippery pants thought that the afterlife would be so.....so this may not be the case of fix worse than problem, as dementia is a problem without fixes!
So, once again, a "funeralin' we will go"!!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Calm after the storm...
They have all departed...the four, plus one puppy. It is quiet, there is less stuff all over, and I have started to put order (my order) back into my life. I loved it! We had fun, built new memories, talked about old memories, they seemed to fight less (at least in my presence), and I think for the most part fun was had all around. And as great as it is for all to be here, the calm after the departure is nice too. Even though they are all self-sufficient adults, it is still demanding to be Mom to the 4!
D2 and M2 are engaged!! A pleasant surprise, and fitting in some small way that their announcement (finally) was made as Mr. CP and I celebrated 40 years together. I hope all that and more for them, as they begin their "officially committed" life together. And we get to be part of another wedding!!! Great fun!
It will take awhile until the sheets and towels are washed, folded, and put away. Tomorrow I will wash puppy nose prints off the french doors--which reminds me of Sammie, and how much a part of "us" she was when "the 4" were all at home. I will frame some of the pictures, sweep up the crumbs, de-sticky the bar, and try to get rid of the mosquitoes that everyone kept letting in. By Friday you will not see any traces of the chaos of the last three days---
and I will return to tending my gardens until they come again--in ones, twos, three's or more. That is why we bought a "party house"! It serves us well.
D2 and M2 are engaged!! A pleasant surprise, and fitting in some small way that their announcement (finally) was made as Mr. CP and I celebrated 40 years together. I hope all that and more for them, as they begin their "officially committed" life together. And we get to be part of another wedding!!! Great fun!
It will take awhile until the sheets and towels are washed, folded, and put away. Tomorrow I will wash puppy nose prints off the french doors--which reminds me of Sammie, and how much a part of "us" she was when "the 4" were all at home. I will frame some of the pictures, sweep up the crumbs, de-sticky the bar, and try to get rid of the mosquitoes that everyone kept letting in. By Friday you will not see any traces of the chaos of the last three days---
and I will return to tending my gardens until they come again--in ones, twos, three's or more. That is why we bought a "party house"! It serves us well.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
40 Years
Is a long time for anything. I have been married to the same person for 40 years.
My maternal grandmother did not even live 4o years!
My parents were not married for 40 years before my dad died.
I have not lived in the same town for 40 years.
We have owned three cats during the 40 years (or rather they have owned us!)
40 years is a long time--
a lot as happened
three states
four kids
one dog
multiple houses
multiple jobs
eight couches
each of our parents dying
each of our kids growing up into an independant person (all different, all great)
One constant--we are in this together!
Mostly for better, although a few times things were a little worse, before they got better.
The secret to a long marriage? Compromise, realistic expectations, similar backgrounds, values and goals...and TWO people who are willing to stick it out. Or maybe inertia---but doesn't matter,
if you can be married to the same person for 40 years, you can be married to that person forever...
My maternal grandmother did not even live 4o years!
My parents were not married for 40 years before my dad died.
I have not lived in the same town for 40 years.
We have owned three cats during the 40 years (or rather they have owned us!)
40 years is a long time--
a lot as happened
three states
four kids
one dog
multiple houses
multiple jobs
eight couches
each of our parents dying
each of our kids growing up into an independant person (all different, all great)
One constant--we are in this together!
Mostly for better, although a few times things were a little worse, before they got better.
The secret to a long marriage? Compromise, realistic expectations, similar backgrounds, values and goals...and TWO people who are willing to stick it out. Or maybe inertia---but doesn't matter,
if you can be married to the same person for 40 years, you can be married to that person forever...
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
"Family" with chicken!
I just returned from "O-hi-a", where I had great fun at the "reunion" of 100 or so people to whom I am more or less related. It came with the full complement of children, dogs, games, crying babies, sulking teenagers, a hedgehog (honest), food, more food (!), somewhat successful attempts at photographing large groups of related individuals, etc.
There was chicken too--"family chicken"--lots of it! (You would have to be from my family to understand!!)
There was chicken too--"family chicken"--lots of it! (You would have to be from my family to understand!!)
Monday, June 09, 2008
2 copies of public records...16 cents,
800 miles, 3 nights hotel, 5 tanks of gas: expensive.....finally knowing your great-grandmothers name...priceless.
Only those "into" genealogy would understand!
Only those "into" genealogy would understand!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Turning over a new leaf
There is nothing worth watching on television. I have decided that there are several books I want to read, so will be spending my time with a reading lamp. Only problem is that it is hard to knit and read at the same time. But two of the books are about knitting....almost as good!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Long of Tooth
Today, MR. CP had his "crowns" lengthened. Turns out that just as we are arriving at the age of "long of tooth", his persistent tooth grinding has left him a little short! of tooth. In the interests of preserving his teeth (so as not to have to resort to artificial teeth) we have embarked on step one of the adventure of "remaking" his teeth.
I will spare you the gory details--but lasers were involved, stitches, and recovery. His teeth are "bigger". All the better for the dentist to fashion new teeth with!!
We are doing our part to stimulate the economy--one dental bill at a time!
I will spare you the gory details--but lasers were involved, stitches, and recovery. His teeth are "bigger". All the better for the dentist to fashion new teeth with!!
We are doing our part to stimulate the economy--one dental bill at a time!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Memorials
Auntie L2, sister of Auntie L of the slippery pants, died this week. She was 94. They went down in order, "the 5". I., too young, H. at 83, T. was 92+, Auntie L of the slippery pants was 96+. Time was on most of their sides! 90 anything is a long life! Most of the time, for most of them, it was good, or they made it good enough.
It is not sad that Auntie L2 died. She was not well. It is a relief. On many levels for many reasons...
"The 5" were each characters in my life, each with different meanings, each with different lessons, each with a different relationship. Auntie L2 was 4th on my list--but only most likely because I. died before I was born--she probably deserved 5th place in the sisters rating. She would hate this if she knew it!
The difference was as follows:
I. had no lemons. They were too poor for something that frivolous--really. She instead raised 9 of the most caring children who are an "amazing" "family" to this day---they really know what the word means!
H. would get a lemon on sale after careful shopping. She would plant the seeds, to patiently grow lemon trees, grate and store the zest, compost the rind, use half of the lemon for lemonade, and keep the rest to add interest to other recipes she made over the next several days. We would all get lemons over the life of the tree.
T. would make her lemon into a beautiful meringue pie, and delight in it, sharing it with family and friends. She would have copied the recipe, and pass it out to those who liked the pie.
Auntie L of the slippery pants would have enjoyed T's pie, make some fresh lemonade to enjoy, and served a wedge as a garnish with the dinner entree on a pretty plate.
Auntie L2 would have been upset that the lemon wasn't an orange, she would have spit the seeds at someone or something, or maybe squirted the juice into some one's eye--pretending it was accidental. She would have eaten the lemon fruit--enjoying the sour face it produced. She would have voiced her opinion of the size of the lemon, the meatiness, the freshness, and the shape. She then would have announced that she always gets the best lemons, because she is special! She will proclaim to anyone who will listen (or pretend to listen) that her lemons are bigger, shiner, more lemony, and better than anyone else's lemons!
So, that is the way it was......I miss each of them differently. Each of them, with their personalities, quirks, life lessons, and responses to things taught me how to live---so that when I get to 90 something, I will have something to talk about!! My memories of "the 5" and some advice on what to do with your lemons!
It is not sad that Auntie L2 died. She was not well. It is a relief. On many levels for many reasons...
"The 5" were each characters in my life, each with different meanings, each with different lessons, each with a different relationship. Auntie L2 was 4th on my list--but only most likely because I. died before I was born--she probably deserved 5th place in the sisters rating. She would hate this if she knew it!
The difference was as follows:
I. had no lemons. They were too poor for something that frivolous--really. She instead raised 9 of the most caring children who are an "amazing" "family" to this day---they really know what the word means!
H. would get a lemon on sale after careful shopping. She would plant the seeds, to patiently grow lemon trees, grate and store the zest, compost the rind, use half of the lemon for lemonade, and keep the rest to add interest to other recipes she made over the next several days. We would all get lemons over the life of the tree.
T. would make her lemon into a beautiful meringue pie, and delight in it, sharing it with family and friends. She would have copied the recipe, and pass it out to those who liked the pie.
Auntie L of the slippery pants would have enjoyed T's pie, make some fresh lemonade to enjoy, and served a wedge as a garnish with the dinner entree on a pretty plate.
Auntie L2 would have been upset that the lemon wasn't an orange, she would have spit the seeds at someone or something, or maybe squirted the juice into some one's eye--pretending it was accidental. She would have eaten the lemon fruit--enjoying the sour face it produced. She would have voiced her opinion of the size of the lemon, the meatiness, the freshness, and the shape. She then would have announced that she always gets the best lemons, because she is special! She will proclaim to anyone who will listen (or pretend to listen) that her lemons are bigger, shiner, more lemony, and better than anyone else's lemons!
So, that is the way it was......I miss each of them differently. Each of them, with their personalities, quirks, life lessons, and responses to things taught me how to live---so that when I get to 90 something, I will have something to talk about!! My memories of "the 5" and some advice on what to do with your lemons!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
$85.00 Baby Hat
I had decided some time ago that I wanted to make a "girly" knit hat for a second cousins new baby--searched for awhile for a pattern--and today decided on Debbie Bliss from Chamarino 2. Takes one ball of yarn, but two colors--so two balls of yarn--$17.00 plus tax. Then I had to buy the book--$18.00. And of course I found some Trecking xxl sock yarn (2 great man colors)--another $34.00. Then there was the heel toe reinforcing yarn--$9.00 more. And the tax.
So to make baby hat---$85.00 out the door...Hand knit cashmere blend hat at any age---priceless.
So to make baby hat---$85.00 out the door...Hand knit cashmere blend hat at any age---priceless.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Friday, March 14, 2008
Volume
We have one cat. He used to be quite large, but, being old and all, is now kind of svelte. There is only so much surface area on the furry beast.
It is a puzzle how one little animal could generate so much loose fur from that surface area....12 lb. cat, yet the equivalent of 5 cats in the Dyson!!! I am amazed that he is not bald!
It is a puzzle how one little animal could generate so much loose fur from that surface area....12 lb. cat, yet the equivalent of 5 cats in the Dyson!!! I am amazed that he is not bald!
Monday, February 04, 2008
The basket is full!
I only acquired one project through purchase at Knit Michigan--a yummy purple and blue wool/mohair combo for mittens, that might become something else.....
Then there was the free stuff!!! I won a door prize--2 balls of cotton sock yarn in a pale pastel--complete with bag, pattern, needles and yarn. E wanted the bag, and since she did not get the door prize, she got the totally cool bag!! (I need more bags like.....)
Commercial: Check out pattern tamers..tame the wandering eye. They are these markers that are magnatized to themselves--so you do not have to tote around a board--great for pattern grids. Cross stitchers would love these! Available from Kelly Black...kellyblack1970@hotmail.com. Check them out at.
So back to the yummy yarn....I got out the swift and ball winder--wound both, then started on the sock yarn I picked up on my last out of town trip---and now the basket is full.. "I need no more yarn"! Have some socks almost done! Want to practice the new techniques I learned in my class, so have two balls of cotton for some dishcloths--just to get the technique down.......
The basket is FULL!
Then there was the free stuff!!! I won a door prize--2 balls of cotton sock yarn in a pale pastel--complete with bag, pattern, needles and yarn. E wanted the bag, and since she did not get the door prize, she got the totally cool bag!! (I need more bags like.....)
Commercial: Check out pattern tamers..tame the wandering eye. They are these markers that are magnatized to themselves--so you do not have to tote around a board--great for pattern grids. Cross stitchers would love these! Available from Kelly Black...kellyblack1970@hotmail.com. Check them out at
So back to the yummy yarn....I got out the swift and ball winder--wound both, then started on the sock yarn I picked up on my last out of town trip---and now the basket is full.. "I need no more yarn"! Have some socks almost done! Want to practice the new techniques I learned in my class, so have two balls of cotton for some dishcloths--just to get the technique down.......
The basket is FULL!
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Knitters Paradise!
I am recovering from Knit Michigan- Hands for the Cure! 16 hours of non-stop knitting fun! I showed MR. CP the pictures--he grunted disinterstingly! Apparently, knitting fun is only fun for knitters!! Understandable!
I arrived early, set up camp and did some sock knitting and networking with an intersting fellow knitter (and camp security guard for the neighboring camp), discussing yarn, yarn stores, favorite things to knit, unemployment, the Mayor of Detroit (at length--turns out she actually knew things!) Ohio, knit shops, knit shop owners, and good places to find yarn, etc.
I went to the market--cool stuff. Had to keep chanting--"I need no yarn, I need no yarn"... and picture the piles of ufo's at home. I managed to admire a lot, "experience" some great textiles, gather some new ideas, and resist the urge to acquire--"I need no more yarn, I need no more yarn"!!
I turned in my chemo caps--early in the pile of what was to eventually become 900 or so, with more on the way! Amazing! I took a picture of the booth where you could turn in pre knit or crochet squares for lap blankets for chemo patients. Who knew? Not well publicized....
I returned to our knitting camp, and knit for awhile, admired the item E. had created in her early morning class (we decided that we would schedule more wisely next time), and munched my lunch--grilled veggie sandwich, bulgar salad, etc. from Holiday Market--Yummy, but messy to eat! But they thought of knitters, and included a wet nap!!!
I bid on some things in the silent action (not enough to get anything, but did not care--figured I did my part to drive up the prices!) I took some pictures of my knitting group doing blindfolded knitting and knitting in garden gloves (silly knitting contests.) Not my idea of fun, but they were having a blast. Looked through the vendors again---"I need no more yarn."
My class was knitting a beaded bracelet--fun, but I did not need the class. It was more of a crafting session, but got two bracelets for my $12. that are cute, and would be nice gifts. Looked great with the day's outfit too!
Dinner was a disorganized affair with a speaker who talked for almost an hour when 15 minutes would do...on depression in cancer patients---really, did we need all this? Just tell us what to ask, hug them , and move on. Clinical nurse--nice, but totally did not know the audience. Was also complicated by the arrival of pizza that was late, and running out of food. Knitters were all nice.....but it was probably the worst part of the day---downer!!
Next class was continential knitting--couldn't make my fingers do what my brain had grasped. Will work on it.
Over all it was great fun to be with kindred spirits--those that understand my addiction to knitting socks, people who wrinkle their nose knowingly at the mention of acrylic, people who are more obsessed (possessed?) than me!
So, I "Danced with Wool", did buy a yummy mohair and wool mitten kit from the market, got some good discount coupons for future pruchases, found a yarn shop to visit in Holland, MI, won a doorprize (!)--guess what? Bamboo sock yarn!! and had a good time. Met some wonderful people. Saw some great stuff. Admired other's fiber-craft skills. Introduced my local group to an intersting world they had not known about, helped E find someone knowledgable about looms....and helped a little those who are facing cancer's uncertainties. Hope they are a little more comfortable...and that the contribution to the research fund helps!
All in all, it was a feel good day all around!
I arrived early, set up camp and did some sock knitting and networking with an intersting fellow knitter (and camp security guard for the neighboring camp), discussing yarn, yarn stores, favorite things to knit, unemployment, the Mayor of Detroit (at length--turns out she actually knew things!) Ohio, knit shops, knit shop owners, and good places to find yarn, etc.
I went to the market--cool stuff. Had to keep chanting--"I need no yarn, I need no yarn"... and picture the piles of ufo's at home. I managed to admire a lot, "experience" some great textiles, gather some new ideas, and resist the urge to acquire--"I need no more yarn, I need no more yarn"!!
I turned in my chemo caps--early in the pile of what was to eventually become 900 or so, with more on the way! Amazing! I took a picture of the booth where you could turn in pre knit or crochet squares for lap blankets for chemo patients. Who knew? Not well publicized....
I returned to our knitting camp, and knit for awhile, admired the item E. had created in her early morning class (we decided that we would schedule more wisely next time), and munched my lunch--grilled veggie sandwich, bulgar salad, etc. from Holiday Market--Yummy, but messy to eat! But they thought of knitters, and included a wet nap!!!
I bid on some things in the silent action (not enough to get anything, but did not care--figured I did my part to drive up the prices!) I took some pictures of my knitting group doing blindfolded knitting and knitting in garden gloves (silly knitting contests.) Not my idea of fun, but they were having a blast. Looked through the vendors again---"I need no more yarn."
My class was knitting a beaded bracelet--fun, but I did not need the class. It was more of a crafting session, but got two bracelets for my $12. that are cute, and would be nice gifts. Looked great with the day's outfit too!
Dinner was a disorganized affair with a speaker who talked for almost an hour when 15 minutes would do...on depression in cancer patients---really, did we need all this? Just tell us what to ask, hug them , and move on. Clinical nurse--nice, but totally did not know the audience. Was also complicated by the arrival of pizza that was late, and running out of food. Knitters were all nice.....but it was probably the worst part of the day---downer!!
Next class was continential knitting--couldn't make my fingers do what my brain had grasped. Will work on it.
Over all it was great fun to be with kindred spirits--those that understand my addiction to knitting socks, people who wrinkle their nose knowingly at the mention of acrylic, people who are more obsessed (possessed?) than me!
So, I "Danced with Wool", did buy a yummy mohair and wool mitten kit from the market, got some good discount coupons for future pruchases, found a yarn shop to visit in Holland, MI, won a doorprize (!)--guess what? Bamboo sock yarn!! and had a good time. Met some wonderful people. Saw some great stuff. Admired other's fiber-craft skills. Introduced my local group to an intersting world they had not known about, helped E find someone knowledgable about looms....and helped a little those who are facing cancer's uncertainties. Hope they are a little more comfortable...and that the contribution to the research fund helps!
All in all, it was a feel good day all around!
Friday, February 01, 2008
Snow Day!
Snow days are the best!! There was much dancing at the office yesterday--and with the help of all the little children it worked!!!
It is beautiful, relaxing--a good day to knit! Have assembled by "things" for the knit-a-thon tomorrow---more time to knit! And techniques classes! And vendors!
Can life get any better!! Nervana!
It is beautiful, relaxing--a good day to knit! Have assembled by "things" for the knit-a-thon tomorrow---more time to knit! And techniques classes! And vendors!
Can life get any better!! Nervana!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Chick Flick
Today, my friend E and I met for lunch and then took in the chick flick about the bridesmaid dresses--cute--and definitely "Chicky"!!!
The movie outfit however is not into "customer service". Both the web and newspaper said they had an 11:50 showing--and we were not the only people who thought so---turns out that even though that is what the newspaper and web site said, those were the "weekend times"--not the regular Tuesday times---so someone else got our business...and the nearby restaurant benefit ted too!
So cry me a river about our lousy economy...we had money to spend, but obviously this theater did not want it! And the mall is losing stores--which we might have shopped--but ended up a few miles away at a stand alone restaurant, and no stores.....
The manager was at the movie less theater---and a little snotty too! Next time we will just go to the mega plex in the first place!!!
The movie outfit however is not into "customer service". Both the web and newspaper said they had an 11:50 showing--and we were not the only people who thought so---turns out that even though that is what the newspaper and web site said, those were the "weekend times"--not the regular Tuesday times---so someone else got our business...and the nearby restaurant benefit ted too!
So cry me a river about our lousy economy...we had money to spend, but obviously this theater did not want it! And the mall is losing stores--which we might have shopped--but ended up a few miles away at a stand alone restaurant, and no stores.....
The manager was at the movie less theater---and a little snotty too! Next time we will just go to the mega plex in the first place!!!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Winter Blast!
Coldest day of the year!! At least it is sunny! That helps (a little!). Finished the first socks of the year(got the yarn from M1 for Christmas). Also have 3 chemo caps done...and counting.
Knitting on a cold winter night!!! Does it get any better?
Knitting on a cold winter night!!! Does it get any better?
Saturday, January 05, 2008
How I "felt"
It was a very felty Christmas. Now to move on to more socks!!! Of course I had to buy more sock yarn---we were snowed in!!! and it creates "what if I couldn't shop for yarn" panic....three new projects, plus one I got as a Christmas gift (doesn't count, as is almost done already). It will be a good cold snowy January to knit in!!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Secret Santa and Gray's Anatomy
I work with someone who believes that everything happens for a reason...some sort of master plan of Divine intervention.
So, here goes with the "happenings":
Profound statement by Meredith Gray in the opening of last weeks episode--"the experience of practicing medicine bears little resemblance to the dream." Substitute your job for "practicing medicine" and it works for almost everyone!
Our office is particularly "grinchy" right now. Maybe it is the economy, maybe it is the "adjustment" to reorganization, maybe is the lack of basic supplies, inability to participate in opportunities and activities that we had come to take for granted, or the very real possibility of lay-offs after the holiday---Grinchy with a capital G!
In the long standing tradition, someone suggested secret Santa--where you draw a name and give little surprise gifts, not to exceed $1 in value all week. "They" did not get organized enough last week, so before we drew, one day was already over. (The tradition demands that the week prior to the holiday event lead up to the guess-a-thon at the event---to see who figured it out!) A full third of the Grinchy staff opted out--but not in any organized way, so that during the name draw, if you got a grinch not participating, you discarded their name, and tried again. I got a grinch person--and discarded to draw again.
Synergy with Gray's anatomy: Dr. Baily in this two-parter, works on "raising above"--as she saves the life of a white supremacist.
My second pick, out of everyone I work with, is the only person I would not wish to have anything to do with. Unfortunately, the way we passed it around, I could not feign having my own name and put it back....
My mind went first to all of the nasty things I could do as this person's Santa. They have no sense of humor, although they think they are hilariously funny. (soooo not!)This person is "dense", arrogant, intolerant, a bully, and no one would every describe them as "nice"...
I though about trading. I thought about paybacks (as there are things I could pay back for!!)
Then I thought about raising above. Just as my coworker says, things happen for a reason. If I went with nasty, no one would blame me, but I would have stooped to the level of this person.
So, I am taking the high road. Wal-mart, despite its "chinese-ness" has about a thousand things for $1 or less, and some are quite useful and/or nice. By the time I had wandered through just the front 1/2 I had enough for multiple themed Santa weeks--hand care (travel lotion, 2 pk of gloves, sparkly nail enamel, emery board, and sanitizer)...Personal winter care(shower poof, travel body wash, travel body lotion, chap stick, travel sun screen)....Entertainment--sudoku and word search books, candy canes, Holiday pencils, and a light up pen). There were oral hygiene possibilities, and oh, so many other options.....
I settled on a holiday theme, with wrapping paper, bag of bows, a light set, ornament set, and lighted candle decoration--all under $1, and very nice for the price!! Way nicer than what my Santa will leave, or this person deserves.
Thank you WalMart--I am raising above!!!!
I hope that I passed the "test".
So, here goes with the "happenings":
Profound statement by Meredith Gray in the opening of last weeks episode--"the experience of practicing medicine bears little resemblance to the dream." Substitute your job for "practicing medicine" and it works for almost everyone!
Our office is particularly "grinchy" right now. Maybe it is the economy, maybe it is the "adjustment" to reorganization, maybe is the lack of basic supplies, inability to participate in opportunities and activities that we had come to take for granted, or the very real possibility of lay-offs after the holiday---Grinchy with a capital G!
In the long standing tradition, someone suggested secret Santa--where you draw a name and give little surprise gifts, not to exceed $1 in value all week. "They" did not get organized enough last week, so before we drew, one day was already over. (The tradition demands that the week prior to the holiday event lead up to the guess-a-thon at the event---to see who figured it out!) A full third of the Grinchy staff opted out--but not in any organized way, so that during the name draw, if you got a grinch not participating, you discarded their name, and tried again. I got a grinch person--and discarded to draw again.
Synergy with Gray's anatomy: Dr. Baily in this two-parter, works on "raising above"--as she saves the life of a white supremacist.
My second pick, out of everyone I work with, is the only person I would not wish to have anything to do with. Unfortunately, the way we passed it around, I could not feign having my own name and put it back....
My mind went first to all of the nasty things I could do as this person's Santa. They have no sense of humor, although they think they are hilariously funny. (soooo not!)This person is "dense", arrogant, intolerant, a bully, and no one would every describe them as "nice"...
I though about trading. I thought about paybacks (as there are things I could pay back for!!)
Then I thought about raising above. Just as my coworker says, things happen for a reason. If I went with nasty, no one would blame me, but I would have stooped to the level of this person.
So, I am taking the high road. Wal-mart, despite its "chinese-ness" has about a thousand things for $1 or less, and some are quite useful and/or nice. By the time I had wandered through just the front 1/2 I had enough for multiple themed Santa weeks--hand care (travel lotion, 2 pk of gloves, sparkly nail enamel, emery board, and sanitizer)...Personal winter care(shower poof, travel body wash, travel body lotion, chap stick, travel sun screen)....Entertainment--sudoku and word search books, candy canes, Holiday pencils, and a light up pen). There were oral hygiene possibilities, and oh, so many other options.....
I settled on a holiday theme, with wrapping paper, bag of bows, a light set, ornament set, and lighted candle decoration--all under $1, and very nice for the price!! Way nicer than what my Santa will leave, or this person deserves.
Thank you WalMart--I am raising above!!!!
I hope that I passed the "test".
Friday, December 07, 2007
Swift
Quick, rapid, fast, speedy
–adjective
1. moving or capable of moving with great speed or velocity; fleet; rapid: a swift ship.
2. coming, happening, or performed quickly or without delay: a swift decision.
3. quick or prompt to act or respond: swift to jump to conclusions.
4. Slang. quick to perceive or understand; smart; clever: You can't cheat him, he's too swift.
–adverb swiftly.
–noun
any of numerous long-winged, swallowlike birds of the family Apodidae, related to the hummingbirds and noted for their rapid flight.
an adjustable device upon which a hank of yarn is placed in order to wind off skeins or balls.
the main cylinder on a machine for carding flax.
Further information:
The swifts are birds superficially similar to swallows but are actually not closely related to those passerine species at all; swifts are in the separate order Apodiformes, which they formerly shared with the hummingbirds. They move into hollow trees and chimneys--and live and breed there year after year--they are very loyal (and noisy) birds. It is expensive to have them removed!
Fast Patrol Craft (PCF), also known as Swift Boats, were all aluminum, 50 foot long, shallow-draft vessels operated by the United States Navy for counterinsurgency (COIN) operations during the Vietnam War. Events realted to them can undo presidential candidates years later.
Jonathan Swift (November 30, 1667 – October 19, 1745) was an Irish cleric, Dean of St. Patrick's, Dublin, satirist, essayist, political pamphleteer (first for Whigs then for Tories), and poet, famous for works like Gulliver's Travels, A Modest Proposal, A Journal to Stella, The Drapier's Letters, The Battle of the Books, and A Tale of a Tub. Swift is probably the foremost prose satirist in the English language, and is less well known for his poetry. Who hasn't had to read Gulliver's Travels--or at least the cliff notes?
Umbrella swift: Hold your hanks on this wooden swift while you wind them into balls. Clamps onto table and counter tops. Easy loading is possible if you start with the umbrella in the down position. Put the open loop of the hank over the swift and pull it lightly so the far side of the hank is against the center of the umbrella section and you are holding the hank out perpendicular to the swift. Then, use your free hand to slide up the umbrella clamp, opening the umbrella to the circumference of the hank. Secure the clamp in place and wind away. Best when used in tandem with the Ball Winder. Measures approx. 26½" in diameter and 26" tall when open.
Had the birds in the chimney, know about the boats, read the book, and now have this nifty accessory to use with my ball winder. Life is good.
Swift, to swift, swifting, swifted, etc.
(Thanks to wikipedia and dictionary on line for the enlightenment!)
–adjective
1. moving or capable of moving with great speed or velocity; fleet; rapid: a swift ship.
2. coming, happening, or performed quickly or without delay: a swift decision.
3. quick or prompt to act or respond: swift to jump to conclusions.
4. Slang. quick to perceive or understand; smart; clever: You can't cheat him, he's too swift.
–adverb swiftly.
–noun
any of numerous long-winged, swallowlike birds of the family Apodidae, related to the hummingbirds and noted for their rapid flight.
an adjustable device upon which a hank of yarn is placed in order to wind off skeins or balls.
the main cylinder on a machine for carding flax.
Further information:
The swifts are birds superficially similar to swallows but are actually not closely related to those passerine species at all; swifts are in the separate order Apodiformes, which they formerly shared with the hummingbirds. They move into hollow trees and chimneys--and live and breed there year after year--they are very loyal (and noisy) birds. It is expensive to have them removed!
Fast Patrol Craft (PCF), also known as Swift Boats, were all aluminum, 50 foot long, shallow-draft vessels operated by the United States Navy for counterinsurgency (COIN) operations during the Vietnam War. Events realted to them can undo presidential candidates years later.
Jonathan Swift (November 30, 1667 – October 19, 1745) was an Irish cleric, Dean of St. Patrick's, Dublin, satirist, essayist, political pamphleteer (first for Whigs then for Tories), and poet, famous for works like Gulliver's Travels, A Modest Proposal, A Journal to Stella, The Drapier's Letters, The Battle of the Books, and A Tale of a Tub. Swift is probably the foremost prose satirist in the English language, and is less well known for his poetry. Who hasn't had to read Gulliver's Travels--or at least the cliff notes?
Umbrella swift: Hold your hanks on this wooden swift while you wind them into balls. Clamps onto table and counter tops. Easy loading is possible if you start with the umbrella in the down position. Put the open loop of the hank over the swift and pull it lightly so the far side of the hank is against the center of the umbrella section and you are holding the hank out perpendicular to the swift. Then, use your free hand to slide up the umbrella clamp, opening the umbrella to the circumference of the hank. Secure the clamp in place and wind away. Best when used in tandem with the Ball Winder. Measures approx. 26½" in diameter and 26" tall when open.
Had the birds in the chimney, know about the boats, read the book, and now have this nifty accessory to use with my ball winder. Life is good.
Swift, to swift, swifting, swifted, etc.
(Thanks to wikipedia and dictionary on line for the enlightenment!)
Thursday, December 06, 2007
I do not need a silverplated mayonnaise bowl...
or much of anything else for that matter. People keep asking me what I want for Christmas. An exercise bike, which they are convinced I would never use, and may be correct about. The power charging cord for my blue tooth earpiece, which I am not sure they make. A yarn meter...maybe??? A fancy schmancy very expensive sewing machine??? Too personal for anyone else to pick out!
What I really, really want has nothing to do with me....I want MR. CP to clean up his office, paint it, make it look presentable---maybe even "nice". New carpet, or some type of flooring. Organization--less random "stuff". I thought the curtains would help--turns out, not enough.
I am looking forward to seeing the kids--being together in that crazy regression that happens when they are all here. I would like to zip in and zip out of Miami. Nora was right--the one you see the least, is the one you would most like to see---probably because you see the rest often.
There is nothing I need, nothing I want---I am very hard to shop for....and a "hard to find china site"--just sent me a message that a mayonniase bowl is now available to match my sterling flatware---which I sooooo do not want!
So, I wll be happy that I already have a new roof!
What I really, really want has nothing to do with me....I want MR. CP to clean up his office, paint it, make it look presentable---maybe even "nice". New carpet, or some type of flooring. Organization--less random "stuff". I thought the curtains would help--turns out, not enough.
I am looking forward to seeing the kids--being together in that crazy regression that happens when they are all here. I would like to zip in and zip out of Miami. Nora was right--the one you see the least, is the one you would most like to see---probably because you see the rest often.
There is nothing I need, nothing I want---I am very hard to shop for....and a "hard to find china site"--just sent me a message that a mayonniase bowl is now available to match my sterling flatware---which I sooooo do not want!
So, I wll be happy that I already have a new roof!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
The difference between men and women
It is that time of year--when the "white panic" sets in and Mr. CP begins to hunker down and winterize!
One of the things to winterize is the interior of my car--slush mats a requirement. As soon as there was a little "sticking" snow, he started talking about them. Not about snow shovels, plowing contracts, warm mittens, etc. Once we got the snow tires on all vehicles--we had to get the slush mats!!!! (apparently, unknown to females, there is a necessary synergy between the tires and the mats!)
Then, as I am walking out the door to work at an ungodly time in the morning, here he comes--in business attire, excitedly waiving the "slush mats" about--headed for my sink....and those of you who live in my type of climate, know what slush mats look like when we put them away last spring--yetch!
Mr. CP thinks that he will "wash them off" before he leaves for work..so they can dry all day!?!?.
I try, as calmly as my now shrieking voice will allow, to point out--
My KITCHEN, with the sparkly pretty counters and new sink is probably not the best choice for scrubbing last years ice melter and "grit" off the mats!
He is dressed for work--remember the power washer, I say
There is no emergency to get the slush mats in my car-- I will be careful with my slush!! (which there is none of at the moment)
Just where did he plan to "dry" these??? (dripping on my wood floors!)
Grumble, grumble--but he knows I am right. I offered up the laundry tubs--he, I think saw the wisdom in not wearing a dress shirt, tie, and jacket to do this.
This weekend we must wash off the slush mats (so they can get dirty again with the slush--but don't go there) Maybe at the quarter car wash (that is now a dollar).
What price sanity!!! I won't even point out that I find very little slush to step in between the interior of the house and the attached garage---that I park in a parking structure--no slush there!....and it is a long walk between where slush might be, through the structure to where my space is!!!
White panic and slush panic.....give me strength!!!
One of the things to winterize is the interior of my car--slush mats a requirement. As soon as there was a little "sticking" snow, he started talking about them. Not about snow shovels, plowing contracts, warm mittens, etc. Once we got the snow tires on all vehicles--we had to get the slush mats!!!! (apparently, unknown to females, there is a necessary synergy between the tires and the mats!)
Then, as I am walking out the door to work at an ungodly time in the morning, here he comes--in business attire, excitedly waiving the "slush mats" about--headed for my sink....and those of you who live in my type of climate, know what slush mats look like when we put them away last spring--yetch!
Mr. CP thinks that he will "wash them off" before he leaves for work..so they can dry all day!?!?.
I try, as calmly as my now shrieking voice will allow, to point out--
My KITCHEN, with the sparkly pretty counters and new sink is probably not the best choice for scrubbing last years ice melter and "grit" off the mats!
He is dressed for work--remember the power washer, I say
There is no emergency to get the slush mats in my car-- I will be careful with my slush!! (which there is none of at the moment)
Just where did he plan to "dry" these??? (dripping on my wood floors!)
Grumble, grumble--but he knows I am right. I offered up the laundry tubs--he, I think saw the wisdom in not wearing a dress shirt, tie, and jacket to do this.
This weekend we must wash off the slush mats (so they can get dirty again with the slush--but don't go there) Maybe at the quarter car wash (that is now a dollar).
What price sanity!!! I won't even point out that I find very little slush to step in between the interior of the house and the attached garage---that I park in a parking structure--no slush there!....and it is a long walk between where slush might be, through the structure to where my space is!!!
White panic and slush panic.....give me strength!!!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Over the river and through the woods...
So, o.k., there is no river, and I am not really any one's grandmother--but there are some woods, at least right here! And it was snowy--just like the pictures in the elementary school song book! We don't have a sleigh, but people got here anyway!
Despite the protestations and asides, the T'giving meal was just fine. We had just enough turkey--and no bones!! A few sandwiches the next day, and it is but a fond memory!! There is a little gravy left, and some stuffing, but I think that will be a hard sale, as the stuffing lover has left town! And in spite of what anyone predicted, sweet potatoes from a box are not bad!!
Now, the tablecloths are washed, and awaiting the Xmas feast. The last of the silverware is back where it belongs. The dishes are put away, and since we are all grown ups, there are no crumbs to sweep up. Maybe not the "Martha Stewart" Thanksgiving, but good enough--and we have much to be thankful for!
Being all together (even though we start to get on each others nerves in a few hours), and being "far from want"-- all of us.
And then there is/was pie!! We ate the fabulous "Angies' pecan pie that M1 brought, along with most of the pumpkin. Mr. CP--bought two more enormous pies--just in case 30 extra people showed up---and since neither of us need the calories, these will go to our respective work places in the morning, where our co-workers can share in the calorie load!!
Oh, so very far from want.....over the river and through the woods......
Despite the protestations and asides, the T'giving meal was just fine. We had just enough turkey--and no bones!! A few sandwiches the next day, and it is but a fond memory!! There is a little gravy left, and some stuffing, but I think that will be a hard sale, as the stuffing lover has left town! And in spite of what anyone predicted, sweet potatoes from a box are not bad!!
Now, the tablecloths are washed, and awaiting the Xmas feast. The last of the silverware is back where it belongs. The dishes are put away, and since we are all grown ups, there are no crumbs to sweep up. Maybe not the "Martha Stewart" Thanksgiving, but good enough--and we have much to be thankful for!
Being all together (even though we start to get on each others nerves in a few hours), and being "far from want"-- all of us.
And then there is/was pie!! We ate the fabulous "Angies' pecan pie that M1 brought, along with most of the pumpkin. Mr. CP--bought two more enormous pies--just in case 30 extra people showed up---and since neither of us need the calories, these will go to our respective work places in the morning, where our co-workers can share in the calorie load!!
Oh, so very far from want.....over the river and through the woods......
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
A trend I've noted
or survival in a down economy?
Yesterday it happened twice. I went to lunch with a group...separate checks. The first two people paid by credit card--the girl rang their payments up. Mine was cash--and I got change from the open drawer--no buttons were pushed, no reciept.
I would say this was efficiency. It was a 'buffet", so the price is the same for everyone....
Then I went to a little botique on the way home. Had a coupon! Looked at things, did not find what I went there for, but did find something else. $18.00--less $5 coupon + tax=14.02. I handed her my card--she says--I don't take plastic for less than a $25.00 purchase--the fees are too high. I dig and dig and find the correct amount in cash in the purse by combining all the loose change, etc.
I get only the had written reciept--and she put my purchase in a "used" bag--all crumpled! Again, no ringing, no reciepts from the register!
So I guess that is what it has come to--off the grid cash purchases, and recycyled bags---nice people, running small businesses--and just trying to make it. A sad commentary on "my" economy....in a state that just raised taxes. Bet these two businesses are thrilled!
Yesterday it happened twice. I went to lunch with a group...separate checks. The first two people paid by credit card--the girl rang their payments up. Mine was cash--and I got change from the open drawer--no buttons were pushed, no reciept.
I would say this was efficiency. It was a 'buffet", so the price is the same for everyone....
Then I went to a little botique on the way home. Had a coupon! Looked at things, did not find what I went there for, but did find something else. $18.00--less $5 coupon + tax=14.02. I handed her my card--she says--I don't take plastic for less than a $25.00 purchase--the fees are too high. I dig and dig and find the correct amount in cash in the purse by combining all the loose change, etc.
I get only the had written reciept--and she put my purchase in a "used" bag--all crumpled! Again, no ringing, no reciepts from the register!
So I guess that is what it has come to--off the grid cash purchases, and recycyled bags---nice people, running small businesses--and just trying to make it. A sad commentary on "my" economy....in a state that just raised taxes. Bet these two businesses are thrilled!
Monday, October 08, 2007
Simple pleasure!
Today I got pants for $1.97!!! It was the thrill of the unexpected! Bagging a bargain! Getting something for practically nothing.
I will not wear them to work--more like Saturday, gardening, retirement(?) pants--but for $1.97, I do not even need to wash them if I don't want to---can just afford to throw them away--really!
Somedays the stars just align!
I will not wear them to work--more like Saturday, gardening, retirement(?) pants--but for $1.97, I do not even need to wash them if I don't want to---can just afford to throw them away--really!
Somedays the stars just align!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
History and Hysterical
So I went on the "Historic" home tour last weekend. I was older than one of the "Historic" homes--bummer! I also knew much about the "historic" homes--from experience!! I have come to the conclusion that I have the wisdom that comes from life experience.
Today I met a friend for lunch, and we went to an antiques mall--and again, much of what was there seemed not all that old to me! Then they told me that to qualify, something had to be at least 30 years old!!! That is not antique (at least to me)!
So there was a lot of the same "junk" that I have gotten rid off, that my mother and her sisters got rid of, etc. It was no better now than it was when they discarded it. There were also duplicates or near duplicates of lots the the "stuff" I have--except that mine at least has a story, a former owner, and a reason I have it.
I did not find anything to acquire. Probably a good thing.
Today I met a friend for lunch, and we went to an antiques mall--and again, much of what was there seemed not all that old to me! Then they told me that to qualify, something had to be at least 30 years old!!! That is not antique (at least to me)!
So there was a lot of the same "junk" that I have gotten rid off, that my mother and her sisters got rid of, etc. It was no better now than it was when they discarded it. There were also duplicates or near duplicates of lots the the "stuff" I have--except that mine at least has a story, a former owner, and a reason I have it.
I did not find anything to acquire. Probably a good thing.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Goofy stuff on the internet-what is the point of this?
Monday, August 27, 2007
from someone who got it from someone--and I bit...
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes, two people with my name (well, it wasn't mine yet, that my parents (one each) both knew and liked.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Over Auntie L of the slippery pants.
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? yes, unless I am in a hurry, which is always.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? YETCH! Awful stuff! IF forced, ham.
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes. Great ones.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Of course!
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? All the time.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? No.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No--I am not crazy.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? granola with yogurt--Vanilla and absoluetly no raisins! Raisins are gross.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? absolutely, or couldn't get them off!
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? For an old lady!
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Hagendaz--vanilla swiss almond
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Teeth
15. RED OR PINK? Pink
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I don't get to all the weeds in my garden.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? A whole bunch of people, but recently ALOTSP, despite the "new freedom".
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? I'm not sending it to anyone as don't do the chain mail thing
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Red and beige.
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? French dip.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Silence--it is nice.
22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Purple
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Vanilla
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? One of my children.
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? No one sent it--I nabbed it from another blogger!
26. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT TO WATCH? By default-racing--it is good to nap to--the droning sound....
27. WHAT IS YOUR HAIR COLOR? Ravishingly Blonde (in my mind)
28. EYE COLOR? Brown with a little bloodshot this time of night.
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, occassionally. What a stupid question.
30. FAVORITE Foods? Mexican.
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy, Happy, Happy.
32. LAST BIG MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Casino Royale--Bond!
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Red, but who would care.
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Winter
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Depends on with who.
36. FAVORITE DESSERTS? Ice cream.
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Noone
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Still noone
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? A book about the history of socks--yeah, I am boring!
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? My mouse!
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T. V. LAST NIGHT? Nothing, cable was out!
42. FAVORITE SOUND? Quiet
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles--yeah, yeah, yeah....
44. WHAT IS THE FURTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Monte Carlo.
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? Yes, many.
46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? In a hospital
47. What frustrates you most? People
48. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Don't expect answers from anyone. Who answers a blog?
So what is the point--other than the mental exercise? Maybe the fun is in the comparison.
from someone who got it from someone--and I bit...
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes, two people with my name (well, it wasn't mine yet, that my parents (one each) both knew and liked.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Over Auntie L of the slippery pants.
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? yes, unless I am in a hurry, which is always.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? YETCH! Awful stuff! IF forced, ham.
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes. Great ones.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Of course!
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? All the time.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? No.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No--I am not crazy.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? granola with yogurt--Vanilla and absoluetly no raisins! Raisins are gross.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? absolutely, or couldn't get them off!
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? For an old lady!
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Hagendaz--vanilla swiss almond
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Teeth
15. RED OR PINK? Pink
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I don't get to all the weeds in my garden.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? A whole bunch of people, but recently ALOTSP, despite the "new freedom".
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? I'm not sending it to anyone as don't do the chain mail thing
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Red and beige.
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? French dip.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Silence--it is nice.
22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Purple
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Vanilla
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? One of my children.
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? No one sent it--I nabbed it from another blogger!
26. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT TO WATCH? By default-racing--it is good to nap to--the droning sound....
27. WHAT IS YOUR HAIR COLOR? Ravishingly Blonde (in my mind)
28. EYE COLOR? Brown with a little bloodshot this time of night.
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, occassionally. What a stupid question.
30. FAVORITE Foods? Mexican.
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy, Happy, Happy.
32. LAST BIG MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Casino Royale--Bond!
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Red, but who would care.
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Winter
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Depends on with who.
36. FAVORITE DESSERTS? Ice cream.
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Noone
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Still noone
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? A book about the history of socks--yeah, I am boring!
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? My mouse!
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T. V. LAST NIGHT? Nothing, cable was out!
42. FAVORITE SOUND? Quiet
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles--yeah, yeah, yeah....
44. WHAT IS THE FURTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Monte Carlo.
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? Yes, many.
46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? In a hospital
47. What frustrates you most? People
48. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Don't expect answers from anyone. Who answers a blog?
So what is the point--other than the mental exercise? Maybe the fun is in the comparison.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
If I had it to do over again...
I would become a "demolitions expert". Not as in demolition derby, but the kind that tear down buildings. They are demolishing a building next to my office, and I have been fasinated the entire time.
I am expecially fond of watching the excavator manuver between the buildings, sorting the twisted chunks, loading the truck--makes it look easy. Know that it is not.
Now, we did not get the excitement of the implosion like the Hudson's building in downtown Detroit. I did get to watch chubby, dirty construction guys go at this building with sledge hammers. The best part were when little puffs of dust would be emitted from the wall, followed by small chunks, and finally a hand would shoot out!
Most of the excitement is done now. The rubble is toted away, and a clean space awaits the new building (?) or parking structure. Can only guess at how "toxic" all the stuff was...I loved watching their progress. It was amazing how they managed to be so exact with such large equipment! The demolition dance!! Loved it!
I am expecially fond of watching the excavator manuver between the buildings, sorting the twisted chunks, loading the truck--makes it look easy. Know that it is not.
Now, we did not get the excitement of the implosion like the Hudson's building in downtown Detroit. I did get to watch chubby, dirty construction guys go at this building with sledge hammers. The best part were when little puffs of dust would be emitted from the wall, followed by small chunks, and finally a hand would shoot out!
Most of the excitement is done now. The rubble is toted away, and a clean space awaits the new building (?) or parking structure. Can only guess at how "toxic" all the stuff was...I loved watching their progress. It was amazing how they managed to be so exact with such large equipment! The demolition dance!! Loved it!
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Expired!
My cell phone rang at work today--something that rarely happens anymore now that I am not a caregiver any longer. The compassionate voice on the other end identified herself as the hospice worker who had done the initial intake on Auntie L of the Slippery Pants. She said she was calling because she noticed that Auntie L had EXPIRED! (She seemed surprised by this--something I though odd for a hospice worker!?!)
Now, my ALOTSP was a lot of things, but she was NOT expired. She had hardly gone past her "best if used by" date!
I was speechless--Auntie L had died! She was elderly, things didn't work like they used to, she was in endstage COPD and hospiced, she was ready---we did not need euphemisms! Auntie L is dead, and it is o.k. with both she and I--we discussed it at length prior to the event.
As I was busy "processing" the expired concept, the hospice lady prattled on about how amazing she thought Auntie L was--I already knew that far better than she! Perhaps I have backed up to Keebler-Ross anger stage--but I don't think so. Maybe I am just too sensitive--perhaps she was trying to be comforting. It wasn't working.
I was brought back to the conversation with a slightly louder "are you o.k.?" I must have missed a response, although I think I was uttering appropriately placed "aa-uha"s. Was I o.k.? Of course I am o.k., I just wasn't ready to get a condolence call about my expired ALOTSP.
In the hospice lady's defense, I think she was trying to help--I thanked her for her assistance and perhaps a little to quickly, ended our conversation.
ALOTSP was not like a gallon of milk or yogurt after all. She was not sour or curdled, even in the final moments. She was a sweetie!! I want to remember her that way.
I think people should stick to "I am sorry for your loss".
Now, my ALOTSP was a lot of things, but she was NOT expired. She had hardly gone past her "best if used by" date!
I was speechless--Auntie L had died! She was elderly, things didn't work like they used to, she was in endstage COPD and hospiced, she was ready---we did not need euphemisms! Auntie L is dead, and it is o.k. with both she and I--we discussed it at length prior to the event.
As I was busy "processing" the expired concept, the hospice lady prattled on about how amazing she thought Auntie L was--I already knew that far better than she! Perhaps I have backed up to Keebler-Ross anger stage--but I don't think so. Maybe I am just too sensitive--perhaps she was trying to be comforting. It wasn't working.
I was brought back to the conversation with a slightly louder "are you o.k.?" I must have missed a response, although I think I was uttering appropriately placed "aa-uha"s. Was I o.k.? Of course I am o.k., I just wasn't ready to get a condolence call about my expired ALOTSP.
In the hospice lady's defense, I think she was trying to help--I thanked her for her assistance and perhaps a little to quickly, ended our conversation.
ALOTSP was not like a gallon of milk or yogurt after all. She was not sour or curdled, even in the final moments. She was a sweetie!! I want to remember her that way.
I think people should stick to "I am sorry for your loss".
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Caveat Emptor
Today I had a long list...Dr. apt, run errands, get hair cut, etc., etc., etc. Met E for (her) lunch, and then decided to do the mall--the "lifestyle" mall, which means that you get sweaty between stores--cause it is not enclosed. An opportunity to get some Vitamin D however.....on a day off!! (nice)
At the national retail chain store specializing in women's clothing the sign said "40% off"--smaller print-"summer clearance" It was plastered everywhere in this square "section" of the store. I found two pair of capri's that fit and felt good, that I liked, and a pair of slacks. 40% off is a bargain!
At the register, the clerk said these are buy one, get one half off. I pointed out that that is not 40%, and patiently (well maybe not too patiently) showed her the signs--40% off. She insisted that although the capri's that I selected were under these signs, the sign that applied to my selections was at the front of the store---"New fall stock--capri's--buy one, get one 1/2 off".
Here is my frustration: Why do retailers insist on putting signs with things that they don't belong with? (Obviously, in an attempt to get you sucked into spending more!) And, who gets "new" fall capri's in our climate? Although it is 95+ degrees today, in 60 days we are likely to be at freezing and/or have snow. No one in their right mind would buy "fall" capris!!
So, note to self. Hold grudge against major women's clothing retailer. I walked a few stores down to another national retailer and found some great $12.00 capri's for gardening--and the sign was correct--"this rack, $9.99 and up"!! More points for that retailer!
I may return the capri's in protest---will have to think about it. Survived the triple round-a-bout--so at least it was victory in the transportation department!
(Oh, and, to Jamison and Layla's mother--you really should stay home and put your kids down for a nap!! They are not pleasant to be around!!)
At the national retail chain store specializing in women's clothing the sign said "40% off"--smaller print-"summer clearance" It was plastered everywhere in this square "section" of the store. I found two pair of capri's that fit and felt good, that I liked, and a pair of slacks. 40% off is a bargain!
At the register, the clerk said these are buy one, get one half off. I pointed out that that is not 40%, and patiently (well maybe not too patiently) showed her the signs--40% off. She insisted that although the capri's that I selected were under these signs, the sign that applied to my selections was at the front of the store---"New fall stock--capri's--buy one, get one 1/2 off".
Here is my frustration: Why do retailers insist on putting signs with things that they don't belong with? (Obviously, in an attempt to get you sucked into spending more!) And, who gets "new" fall capri's in our climate? Although it is 95+ degrees today, in 60 days we are likely to be at freezing and/or have snow. No one in their right mind would buy "fall" capris!!
So, note to self. Hold grudge against major women's clothing retailer. I walked a few stores down to another national retailer and found some great $12.00 capri's for gardening--and the sign was correct--"this rack, $9.99 and up"!! More points for that retailer!
I may return the capri's in protest---will have to think about it. Survived the triple round-a-bout--so at least it was victory in the transportation department!
(Oh, and, to Jamison and Layla's mother--you really should stay home and put your kids down for a nap!! They are not pleasant to be around!!)
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Sadly
Auntie L of the slippery pants died last week. Her funeral was today. A nice tribute to a great person. I will miss her.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
"ditch" lillies
I am usually a law abiding citizen--but lately I have had the overwhelming desire to throw a shovel in my trunk, and stop along the road to dig up some of the lovely bright orange day lillies that abound in the ditches and roadside....problem is , they probably belong to someone, even if they look abandoned.
I need some, as they seem very durable. Obviously they are not especially tasty, as the deer have not mowed them down. They also abound in ditches, so must not need much care. I happen to like them.
My boss has some she doesn't want--so I may be legally getting some ditch lillies!! Yipeeee!
I need some, as they seem very durable. Obviously they are not especially tasty, as the deer have not mowed them down. They also abound in ditches, so must not need much care. I happen to like them.
My boss has some she doesn't want--so I may be legally getting some ditch lillies!! Yipeeee!
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Ready...
These socks are the bright candy like colors I am hoping for with my dye it yourself yarn....we will see....but I love these socks! Color and comfy!! Knit them on my Kansas trip.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Probably a bad idea
I am planning to dye yarn for some socks with koolaide...have read all about the techniques, done the math, searched the web. Hard to find the "right" colors--now I am ready---is probably more trouble than it will be worth. Stay tuned!
Monday, May 21, 2007
Baby deer and smelly stuff!
We say them last night upon arriving home--mom and the tiny fawn, barely able to stand--out by the old oak. Mom headed into the woods, but the baby had trouble, falling and not getting up. Mr. CP was worried--he had to take his 1/2 of the trash down, and it was still there.
Gone this am!
Mom and/or friends however visited for lunch in the garden. Lots of hosta munching. I just weeded yesterday, so know the dining was today--not much doesn't taste good to a mom deer nursing a couple of fawns. Or the rabbits--I suspect they had the black eyed susan side salads!
Should have sprayed the smelly deterrent spray last night...but better late! while there are still plants left! Found some new stuff as my regular brand of deer repellent was sold out. WOW, does this new stuff STINK. I can still smell it on my hands--after multiple scrubbings!! Must remember to "suit up".
If the smelliness is related to the effectiveness, I may have plants this year!!
Gone this am!
Mom and/or friends however visited for lunch in the garden. Lots of hosta munching. I just weeded yesterday, so know the dining was today--not much doesn't taste good to a mom deer nursing a couple of fawns. Or the rabbits--I suspect they had the black eyed susan side salads!
Should have sprayed the smelly deterrent spray last night...but better late! while there are still plants left! Found some new stuff as my regular brand of deer repellent was sold out. WOW, does this new stuff STINK. I can still smell it on my hands--after multiple scrubbings!! Must remember to "suit up".
If the smelliness is related to the effectiveness, I may have plants this year!!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Fish on the roof
The wind socks were beyond straight out horizontal. A 60-70 MPH wind put them into the gutters. The wind played with the trees--bending twisting--just to establish that it was still the "boss", although they bucked and swayed like wild horses. The house creeks, pops, and there are thuds outside. The rain starts with huge drops, pelting the windows, highlighted by lightening. There is rumbling, howling, tapping--much noise. The dishes and the windows rattle--from wind and the rumble!
The lights dim, flicker. The sky is black--tumultuous,churning, spewing forth rain at a pace that turns the gutters into waterfalls, and the downspouts into fountains at the connectors! The weather radar is decidedly beyond red to maroon--"most severe". Walls of rain descend on the yard, flattening the grass in waves.
Then, there is silence--nothing moves. It is as though the wind is exhausted--but the strange glow in grey sky leaves the uneasiness hanging in the soggy air. Little flashes of lightening look like firefly blinks against the dim landscape. And there is a low rumble--intermittent, but threatening.
Thus are sudden, violent spring storm. Intense, unrelenting, overpowering, and yet somehow fascinating. The leaves that have clung to the trees are heavy, bottoms turned up by the wind. Chairs are tossed, branches snapped.
As the sky lightens, the fish dangle idly in the gentle breeze. Soon it will be safe to go out to see if the shingles are still intact. The power of nature should never be underestimated!
The lights dim, flicker. The sky is black--tumultuous,churning, spewing forth rain at a pace that turns the gutters into waterfalls, and the downspouts into fountains at the connectors! The weather radar is decidedly beyond red to maroon--"most severe". Walls of rain descend on the yard, flattening the grass in waves.
Then, there is silence--nothing moves. It is as though the wind is exhausted--but the strange glow in grey sky leaves the uneasiness hanging in the soggy air. Little flashes of lightening look like firefly blinks against the dim landscape. And there is a low rumble--intermittent, but threatening.
Thus are sudden, violent spring storm. Intense, unrelenting, overpowering, and yet somehow fascinating. The leaves that have clung to the trees are heavy, bottoms turned up by the wind. Chairs are tossed, branches snapped.
As the sky lightens, the fish dangle idly in the gentle breeze. Soon it will be safe to go out to see if the shingles are still intact. The power of nature should never be underestimated!
Monday, May 14, 2007
Just like Michigan but with palm trees
We adventured to the Florida Keys for fun in the sun with the 4 and assorted significant and not so significant others. It was J's birthday #30, and mothers day...the excuses for the event.
I had three goals--read a book, drink frozen pinacolodas, and get a nice picture of all (suitable for framing and/or Xmas cards). All three were accomplished! The rest did whatever they wanted--apparently harder for them to accomplish than I thought without a "field Marshall" to blame!! We all survived, and on the whole , think all had a good time!
D, E, M, and J even resurrected an earlier t-shirt theme, and had them made in our current sizes--fun! Sometimes they surprise me with their resourcefulness. Still does not mean that they cooperate in any fashion that would seem to be collaborative (family dynamics always enter in!), buy they got it done! M2 even had one, but we will not show mama E the pictures!
Key West is just like Mackinaw City, Atlantic City, or Bar Harbor, but with Key Lime Pie instead of fudge, salt water Taffy, etc. I enjoyed the resort more. Did like the Hemingway house tour, as was entertaining but overpriced, and the Truman white house development was very nice. The food was good (but again, overpriced), and riding the bikes was fun (if not a bit too far for the first time out!). Went to the southernmost point--so I could say I'd been there...one more thing off my list!
Thinking of the next big adventure--maybe an all inclusive resort, or a houseboat (except that I think that is too confined a space--would need several boats!!) Will work on it for 09 --m will be 30!
Fun in the sun was had by all, and the SPF 55 sunscreen works!
I had three goals--read a book, drink frozen pinacolodas, and get a nice picture of all (suitable for framing and/or Xmas cards). All three were accomplished! The rest did whatever they wanted--apparently harder for them to accomplish than I thought without a "field Marshall" to blame!! We all survived, and on the whole , think all had a good time!
D, E, M, and J even resurrected an earlier t-shirt theme, and had them made in our current sizes--fun! Sometimes they surprise me with their resourcefulness. Still does not mean that they cooperate in any fashion that would seem to be collaborative (family dynamics always enter in!), buy they got it done! M2 even had one, but we will not show mama E the pictures!
Key West is just like Mackinaw City, Atlantic City, or Bar Harbor, but with Key Lime Pie instead of fudge, salt water Taffy, etc. I enjoyed the resort more. Did like the Hemingway house tour, as was entertaining but overpriced, and the Truman white house development was very nice. The food was good (but again, overpriced), and riding the bikes was fun (if not a bit too far for the first time out!). Went to the southernmost point--so I could say I'd been there...one more thing off my list!
Thinking of the next big adventure--maybe an all inclusive resort, or a houseboat (except that I think that is too confined a space--would need several boats!!) Will work on it for 09 --m will be 30!
Fun in the sun was had by all, and the SPF 55 sunscreen works!
Sunday, March 25, 2007
It has been awhile
...since I blogged. Nothing to say, I guess. It was the grey, dreary Feb/March winter combined with busyness and laziness I guess.
Have been buying sock yarn like they might not be making it anymore! Several out of town trips took me close enough to yarn shops not yet discovered to be dangerous! My baskets are now full, and I have many exciting socks to knit over the next several months.
Now it is time to start on the yard clean up. Has been an unusually hard winter for trees and bushes--lots of ice breakage. Need a huge bonfire! Have to get going, as have many more out of town trips upcoming--and know how easily it gets out of hand! Maybe I will take a gardening day off!!!?
Auntie L of the slippery pants had quite a March--being hospitalized, etc. Is doing o.k.now--took up lots of my time a the bedside. Didn't mind so much tho, as had my knitting, and we had some "quality conversations". Did some cute booties for a baby shower , and worked on some other socks that I have started.
Stay tuned...spring is upon us!
Have been buying sock yarn like they might not be making it anymore! Several out of town trips took me close enough to yarn shops not yet discovered to be dangerous! My baskets are now full, and I have many exciting socks to knit over the next several months.
Now it is time to start on the yard clean up. Has been an unusually hard winter for trees and bushes--lots of ice breakage. Need a huge bonfire! Have to get going, as have many more out of town trips upcoming--and know how easily it gets out of hand! Maybe I will take a gardening day off!!!?
Auntie L of the slippery pants had quite a March--being hospitalized, etc. Is doing o.k.now--took up lots of my time a the bedside. Didn't mind so much tho, as had my knitting, and we had some "quality conversations". Did some cute booties for a baby shower , and worked on some other socks that I have started.
Stay tuned...spring is upon us!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)