Nature’s bounty . . . .
One of our two pecan trees isn’t putting out any nuts this year. I don’t know why. The other tree compensates, however, producing an abundant crop. I look forward to autumn evenings with a bowl of pecans in my lap, nutcracker in hand.
Reg and Rog like to crack pecans and pick out the nut meat with their teeth.
I chopped down our grape vine.
The grapes were beginning to ripen, but I could not stand the awful hornworms. Repugnant, fat buggers that expel a nasty, black slime, plus they host parasites. The vine was being eaten up by them. Good riddance.
The grapes weren’t ripening properly anyway. Sorry, birds. Maybe next year.
Mesquite . . . .
During winter mesquite seed pods provide protein for birds, coyotes, deer, rodents, and javelina. Our trees feed birds; Reggie and Roger chew on the pods, too. (Safe for dogs; I checked.)
Great clusters of pods dangle from the mesquite trees.
Seems like there are a lot more pods this year.
Hmm . . . . Could the pods predict our winter, like the wooly bear caterpillar? More pods = a harsh winter?
“The woolly bear caterpillar — with its distinct segments of black and reddish-brown — has the reputation of being able to forecast the coming winter weather. According to legend, the wider that middle brown section is, the milder the coming winter will be. Conversely, a narrow brown band is said to predict a colder, snowier winter.” — Jim Muller, adirondackalmanack.com.
Well, I’m not thinking about winter yet.
I’m interested in monsoon season.
As in . . . where did it go? Several weeks ago we had one week of the typical, daily cycle of afternoon or evening rains. Then it came to a halt, leaving us with blue sky, fluffy white clouds, and three-digit heat.
“Hey, Reggie! You’re off the path!”
Here it is the third week in August and we’re still waiting for monsoon season.
This time last year the yard was green and I was on the third go-around with the mower and weed-wacker.
This year most plants in our yard are brown or the ground is bare. The boys wear “paths” in the dirt where they regularly patrol the property.
Outside work is done before 9 a.m. or after sunset.
Landscape fabric is cheap: $2 for 50 ft.
Stuff in the yard struggles to grow, yet in the flower beds the weeds are jumping up, green and happy. I put a stop to their little party by laying down landscape fabric.
This bed used to hold rose bushes. You may recall some of the rose photos from previous posts. I hated to have them ripped out, but overall and over the span of a year, they just weren’t attractive. Mostly straggly bushes of old wood and plagued with blackspot.
The plan is to put in new, blackspot-resistant rose bushes at the right time in early spring (Feb. in AZ).
The only green patch we have and I cover it up!
A lull in thrift store shopping . . .
Small, 3D plaques for the kitchen are a fun find at 25 cents each.
Apparently summer isn’t a good time for finding treasures at the thrift store.
The snowbirds are gone and year-round residents go on vacation rather than clear out their stuff or they’re hunkered down with the a/c.
I only go thrifting about once a week now. Sometimes I leave the shop empty-handed or I pick up a little something like I show here.
The selection of big items, such as furniture and paintings, isn’t that great these days. That’s okay.
A metal hand-rake for reaching around plants in beds will come in handy ($6).
The house is mostly furnished now, so there’s no urgency.
Speaking of urgency, about our bathroom . . . .
A while back a leak behind the tub surround, as well as a stopped-up drain, resulted in a plumbing repair bill close to $800. I didn’t let that upset me because. . . When you buy an old house, you’re gonna’ have repairs, right?
Weeks later, in a totally unrelated incident, a pinhole leak appears in the bathroom ceiling.
I’m concerned.
Then, while I’m taking a shower and washing my hair, I look up at the ceiling.
Hey, was that always like that? It doesn’t look right. The ceiling is sagging!
A few days later Dennis (the guy who put up the privacy fence and a new friend) is over at the house and I show him the ceiling. He presses the ceiling and it moves upward!
Uh-oh.
Dennis tears down the sagging dry-wall and finds a leaking pipe.
There’s a leak in there . . . .
And along with the leak is black mold!
Fortunately the mold is only on the drywall and can be removed easily.
Dennis comes back with a helper and they get to work.
Pulling down the ceiling . . .
It turns out that the entire ceiling needs to be removed for the pipes to be repaired/replaced. Then a new ceiling installed . . . a labor intensive project.
Ooh, what do we have here? Someone patched this pipe in the past.
Am I upset about this?
No. Quite the contrary. I’m thankful the entire ceiling didn’t come crashing down on me while taking a shower.
Goes without sayin’ . . .
I do not want to be found naked under a heap of moldy drywall.
rvsue
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“I’m very pleased with these purchases!” — Sue
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Hey! Good to see you Sue!
Good to see you, too, Sherri!
CONGRATULATIONS FOR BEING FIRST TODAY!
Well, I suspect I might have been first (I just happened to see the announcement of the new post the second it came in) BUT I stopped to read the whole post, so probably got beaten out by another blogorino. 😉 Fun to read, as always!
Glad you enjoyed the post, Arden!
I think I was first. I haven’t done that in a long while. Seeing your posts these days, are like a breath of fresh air. I love catching up on how things are going. I had a thought on the pecan tree. Perhaps they have an “on year and off year”? I know there are trees that cycle between abundant years and sparse years.
Home ownership IS a challenge, but you have a great attitude about it.
Thanks for coming and sharing as life goes along. Hope your rains come soon!
Interesting — I know our old apple trees in Maine were definitely “alternate year” producers, so that could be!
You’re welcome, Sherri.
“a breath of fresh air”…. That makes me smile. 🙂
Love the pictures of the plants. Sounds like your doing well and good to hear from you again., Not to worry the rains will come. Thrifting will pick up and all will be well. So sorry about the ceiling but yes it is good you didn’t get buried by it.
Hi, Alice….. Thank you for your positive comments!
I used to live in an old apartment building in Boston, and well, yes, the ceiling did collapse into my shower, so I understand not wanting to be caught naked. Not the way I want to leave this world either!! Luckily for me, I was not in the shower either at the time. And luckily for me, I was a renter and didn’t have to pay for the repair, plus I had a membership at my gym and used their showers while it was being fixed. Love the new header picture of the boys!
Hi, Terri….. Recognizing what could have happened helps us to be thankful for our good fortune. Yes, it could’ve been much worse for you!
Nice to hear from you. The year cycles, as does the weather and even the thrift shop opportunities! We’ve had hot days here at 9000 feet, making me long for a trip in the truck camper to shady spots and blue lakes. Already planning for a summer in Alaska in 2020. Right now spending time replacing our rotting deck with new wood. Always a project in an older house as you well know!
Summer in Alaska! Wow! The rotting deck gets new wood and Mary gets a new adventure. 🙂
Hi Sue,
Good to see your new post. About the pecan trees. When I lived in Texas for 6 years there were pecan trees in the RV park I lived in. I was told then and it held true, nuts every other year.
Sorry about your bathroom ceiling and other issues but I guess you are lucky it didn’t fall on you and you will get all this stuff fixed and not have to hopefully worry about it for awhile.
I noticed my thrift shop isn’t as good in the summer either. I go when I can but I haven’t found much lately either.
Take care everyone! I have to go for now!
Hi, Jolene…. My pecan tree in GA was every other year, too. I don’t know why one of ours is giving a big crop for a consecutive year…. not complaining! 🙂
I’ve had a bathroom ceiling adventure myself lately in my apartment. I woke up Monday before last to the sound of rainfall. I looked outside; dry. The rain was indoors! It seems the tenant upstairs fell asleep with water running. I had a big puddle on my floor (bathroom and bedroom) and heard the water dripping into it. It took some doing to wake my neighbor so he could shut off the water. Fortunately for me, nothing of mine was destroyed. The ceiling is intact, but I’ll have to get the landlord in here because it’s soft. Jeez! I had some help with cleaning up the mess, and I got a good story out of it.
I follow the weather in Tucson and I’ve been wondering the same thing about the monsoon there. When Tucson has an excessive heat warning, it’s really hot. We don’t have anything like those temperatures here, but we have had heat indexes (temp plus humidity) close to theirs. I’m not on the bicycle on those days.
Those plaques will be a good addition to your home, I bet.
The classic catastrophe of apartment dwellers: The upstairs neighbor leaves the water running. I’m sorry it happened to you, Calvin. Yeah, have that soft ceiling removed before mold takes over. I hope you have a good landlord!
My landlord’s not great, but I know how to push him. It’s not related that the weather is going my way, except that’s two good things in my day. Enjoy yours!
My nephew & his wife have an older home & they had water leaks in kitchen this past spring. Homeowners insurance & supplemental insurance covered the repair expenses.
We haven’t had a decent monsoon for over 20 years. Yes my desert trees are struggling, forget lawn grass or flowers in summer. The flowers don’t last long. I miss the rain terribly.
Older homes come with repairs but so do new homes. My favorite aunt once told me, “Its your home and should please you.” But I am having a blast decorating with you. A bargain thrills my soul. I am just now commenting because I started at the beginning. Thank you for sharing your and with me.
Hi, Teresa…. Love your enthusiasm! I can relate to “A bargain thrills my soul.” Haha!
Hi Missy Good to see you again. Nothing new here, still struggling with my new lot in life. Didn’t see much about the boys but I wish Reg and Rog only the best. Keep cool and here’s a cool hug!!!
Good to see you here, too, Jim. Reg and Rog are loving life the way dogs do, patrolling, playing, pestering, and enjoying long naps in a/c, stretched out on the big bed. 🙂
Missy enjoyed that cool hug with you!
You made wise decisions about what plants to keep or remove. An environment surrounding us has such a big influence on the way we feel, I like thinking about you being more pleased with yours as time goes by.
Good ol’ Dennis comes through for you again, nice !!! Having an available multi- skilled worker that you get along with is a treasure. It’s fortunate that something happened to alert you about black mold growing there. Thank God it was removed before spreading and possibly affecting your health.
Funny, for several weeks I thought about my area having the patterns of rain Arizona calls monsoon season, it seems to have gone on a road trip, visited central NY state, and be on it’s way elsewhere- hopefully back home to bring you some relief.
It will be fun shopping when folks get back to their usual patterns of filling the thrift stores with things you haven’t seen before. It does seem that not a lot of inventory changes in them during this part of the year, even where I live. The only really exciting (to me) thing I found at a church’s annual yard sale recently was a barely used Carhart fall/winter jacket for $5, luv their outer wear stuff.
Wonderful to see the boys so happy to have each other 🙂 , thanks for another delightful post, Sue.
You’re welcome, weather…. That Carhart jacket for five bucks, what a deal!
I enjoyed your description in a previous comment about the father playing his guitar and lullabying his child and your observations of the life around your cove.
The monsoon has “gone on a road trip.” What a gift you have with words! 🙂
Wow, a Carhart jacket for $5 is the bargain of the year. Yippee!
Those Carharts last forever.
Sue and Boys,
It so very wonderful to see a new post from you. Those boys just get cuter every time you post a new and very entertaining “letter” to us. I always looked so forward to your travel postings and to savour wherever you parked us for the night or several days at a time. Darn you! Now you are responsible homeowner and I have to do my travelling all on my own.
In the comments of the previous post, someone wrote about being in Orofino, ID. Funny that. It’s such a small and out of the way place. My daughter took me there for the 4th of July and we stayed from Thursday until Sunday afternoon. What a great place. She was the official event photographer for the enduro LoggerXcross dirt bike competition on Saturday. This was my first time at such an event so she took me around and introduced to all the important folks there. Just great fun and I came away with some awesome photos as well. We stayed at the Edge of the River Lodge across from the race area. Totally enjoyed that. Though our room had a grand view of the parking lot and the extended care facility across the street for 20-30$ less per night as opposed to a room with a view of the river and balcony as well. We ate with her parents-in-law at the Mexican restaurant Fiesta en Jalisco is the best anywhere. The food is totally delicious and more than you and any 10 truckers could eat for one meal.
It is not to be missed. Her father-in-law and grandmother-in-law are from there and Gramma is a resident (she will be 90 in April 2020, she told me) across the street at the extended care facility. So I got to see the real Orofino that folks just there for a weekend or so might never get to see and hear the stories as well.
We were there the night of the 4th and while everyone tried to get the best seats in the bleachers on the baseball field, daughter took me over to the nearby bridge and we stood over the river and you would not believe the most awesome photos of fireworks exploding literally just over our heads. Best fireworks photos I’ve ever taken. On our way out of town one day, we watched a graceful golden eagle swooping down to the river’s surface fishing for b’fast. He didn’t offer to share. So we had to wait til we got to Clarkston, WA across the river / bridge from Lewiston, ID. We ate another excellent meal at the Taco Time there in Clarkston. I love Taco Time but they are not all equal. This one is the creme de la creme of them all. Another not-to-be-missed stop.
Back to Orofino and gorgeous weather – sunburn -> dark tan, all in one weekend.
She also took me around to see the local sights and told me which places were good or not for eating / grocery shopping – I was considering buying land and moving there.
Her parents-in-law and other famiy members own a huge amount of land just above the town on top (literally) of a mountain there. So parents keep RV on property – they live over in Washington STate. When they come over to Orof. to visit, they tow the RV down and stay at that RV park at the edge of town on the river. We met them there one afternoon for a visit and the park there is just lovely. Great place to stay.
So good to see the boys were being good in these photos but it’s also quite fun to read about their antics when they aren’t quite so good. Beautiful butterfly on the blossoms.
Sorry about the bathroom challenges and expenses. That’s a nightmare but you were lucky to get it repaired soon and by a reputable couple of guys.
I will be happy to hear more of your “thrifting”. You are such an inspiration.
I do keep hoping one day when you are bored and looking for inspiration, you might pick up the camera and do wide angle views of whole rooms. It must just be so beautiful and restful now you’ve most everything in place as you’d like it. It’s so fun “watching” you put it all together.
I’ve started the generator (yeah, I know, that’s a bad word) adn have the fan running so I’m almost dry enough to put on jammies and go to bed.
Nite Nite All,
ehugs for the boys ( from me, the kitties opted out)
So happy to hear from you.
Anne – sweltering in the “sunny South”
FYI Anne,
Just another blogorino here. I loved “the kitties opted out”! Still smiling!
Nice-enjoyed reading your comments.
Mary B in Abita, LA
Thank you, Mary B.
They are a pair of weasels wearing kitty fur. They think they actually own this RV and property. Do you think I can convince them to do their share of the work? Mow the 1/2 acre of lawn?
Not a chance.
So where is Abita? What is it like where you live? Pets?
Anne
Hi Anne!
Another smile! ‘…weasels wearing kitty fur…’
Town of Abita Springs is north of New Orleans-across the lake. “Idyllic small Louisiana town” with many vintage properties/yards/fences/gates/Opry with local-regional music Spring and Fall/Tammany Trace Trail converted from old railroad/lots of town festivals/most of town proper is “historic”/preserve the trees priority. Quaint. Quiet. Green. Artsy. Quirky. Town and people! Town Hall is over 100 years old.
Next to similar larger towns of Covington and Mandeville. Convenient.
My pets are “borrowed”-I doggie sit for 2 Springer Spaniels, also a black lab. The Springers are funny and entertaining-one is sneaky stealthy-wants to leave the yard! The lab has my heart (found in FL and re-homed out of necessity) and is still MY baby even tho she is ecstatic with her other family. When she bonds, she never breaks it, never forgets over the years. Wish I knew her previous life. Those owners had gently trained her and must have been devastated when she became ‘lost dog’. My guess is she escaped from a nearby campground in Destin. She kept her training, skills and joy hidden until she trusted and bonded with me after almost 3 weeks. Happy endings for her!! AND her family!
We are renovating an old house. Our Lil’ Snoozy camper will get to go camping very soon to pick up our lab for her visit. And, maybe next year, a trip towards CO!!
Or somewhere west of here! HA! We are always renovating a house or making plans!
Keeps us going!
mb in Abita LA
Mary,
Thank you so much for “sharing”. I envy you the wonderful and interesting “quirky” place y9u live.
I am looking for just such a place but very far out west. But I very much enjoyed hearing about yours. And a camper named “Lil’ Snoozy”?
Who knew?
thanks
Anne
Hey Anne!
Enjoyed the sharing!
FYI and to any others that may have been interested in this camper at some time.
We love our Lil’ Snoozy-great concept…But! the small NC company went bankrupt-many people lost their steep deposits. Not good. But we have tripped from Louisiana to Maine and back and look forward to more trippin’!
mb in Abita, LA
Anne, thank you for the interesting and entertaining comment. You bring us into your world with your fun-to-read details. An excellent mini-blog post! Well done!
Be cool. 🙂
Sue and Boys,
Thank you for the compliment. It means so much coming from you.
I was travelling for 3 months and had so many “RVSue” adventures/experiences. Truck dash light came on “check engine”. I pulled in to shop in Cheyenne, WY and guys couldn’t have been nicer. Excellent service and reasonably priced. RV Sue kind of luck.
Stopped at rest area just past Laramie, WY and was going to sleep for the night. Sunset was just a slendid kleidioscope of color. I used my iPAD to video a 360º view. Sent it to a group of folks I chat with while I travel and one person and her hubby said they put it up on their enormous TV on the wall and just savored the view. She said they watched it several times.
Later, I camped at Gros Ventres Campground just out of Jackson Hole, WY. The morning I left, I was listening to a radio station playing classical music, something by Paganini with a violin solo. I pulled over quickly on the long driveway exit from the campground to the main highway. Used the iPAD to video the morning’s clear blue sky, white snow on the mtn. tops, the lush green meadows, etc. The violin in the background was a perfect touch. Everyone enjoyed that one as well.
While at Gros Ventres, I saw my very first live bull moose – and yes, I shot Bullwinkle. So many adventures. What a trip!!!
I come here as much to catch up with you and what you have been doing but also to hear from others and what they have been up to. I still think of this as your “family room” and love stopping in with my coffee to listen to other bloggerinos.
I enjoy sharing my own adventures as I try to emulate you, Sue – i.e., be open to new friends, 2-legged and 4-legged, open to new adventures as well. I stopped at a motel in Nebraska and was quite ill with onset pnewmonia from severe cold not properly taken care of. Lady at motel and I began chatting and she had lived in Federal Way, WA (south of Seattle) when I lilved in Seattle. She was Japanese and fixed me a proper Japanese (I had shared that my daughtter was 1/2 Japanese) dinner. Oh my, eyes rolled back in my head it was so good. An RV Sue experience. I learn from the best. I’m practicing to be you when I finally (if ever) grow up.
Anne
I loved your fireworks story. You painted a great picture, and I felt like I was right there with you.
Applegirl,
Thank you. You would have loved it. It was pretty loud, I won’t lie. But once you got used to it, being so close and shooting it all was a total dream come true.
Anne
I’m really enjoying your “journey” as you transition from full time RV life to new home owner. We may have to get off the road ourselves to care for ailing MIL whose 92. Not an easy choice but you help with your wit and optimism. I know we can always go back to the RV lifestyle, but I’m still nervous about parking it for awhile as I’m afraid it may be forever. Thanks for helping me see the bright side of starting a new lifestyle.
You’re welcome, Gail. Best wishes for your MIL and for your own transition. It’s a joy for me to read that my blog helps to keep you on the “bright side” (and I understand about being “nervous about parking it.”)
Sue, it’s always a delight to see you here. What a great attitude you have about all your repairs. I think your yard would be perfect for a desert tortoise. Have you ever thought about adopting one? You can apply for one through Arizona Game and Fish. Your yard looks like it would be a good habitat for them. We’ve had a California desert tortoise for more than 30 years. They are interesting animals and have quite the personality.
You’ve shared your life with a desert tortoise for more than 30 years? How wonderful is that!
Driving in the desert to boondocks, I sometimes wondered if I was hurting a desert tortoise. That’s why I always tried to stay on someone else’s tracks (and why I grumbled about irresponsible off-roading).
I wouldn’t want to give my boys access to a tortoise. They might not hurt it directly or intentionally, but they might cause it stress by pestering it.
Wow you’ve been busy!
I think the pecans go every other year! Hornworm….I’ve gotta go look that one up! Stopping the weeds from having a party made me laugh! Uh oh! Yes being found nekkid under a pile of moldy drywall…would truly wreck someone’s day! Where do you come up with this? Hahhh
Studs and wiring look good!
As for monsoon season it’s only rained up here twice. I can’t imaging the drought and it’s repercussions. Sweet corn is usually knee high by the Fourth of July! (Gotta be an East Coast saying). Not sure if the farmers will be able to grow cow corn!
What an adorable photo of Reg and Rog! And how are the boys? They stay so white!
How’s the griddle grill….any new recipes?
Great to hear from you and what is happening in your neck of the woods!
Jules and I, along with 300 other Ladies of Olivia are headed to Tahiti! Booked it two years ago and it’s FINALLY here! Jules had just torn her hamstring at work so she really didn’t get to enjoy it the first time! This time it’s our 20th anniversary! OY! Damn we’re getting old fast!
The rainbow bridge gained a perfect princess, Smokie was 16. She started declining fast with renal failure! Been there with 7 cats already..So we get to the vets, decision was already made, and she decides to be a total Russian Blue, climbing all over everything! Was adamant, that she wanted to climb on the end table, stand on her tippy toes and reach up to a picture. She kept pawing at this picture. The picture was of two cats, a calico and a tuxedo, that looked exactly like her past buddies, Pouncie and Adirondack!
She was ready!
Thanks for taking the time to write a blog! Take good care and hugs for the crew!
It really does sound like Smokie was ready, still, letting her go must have been bittersweet for you, I hope little or no sadness and sense of loss interferes with your memories of having given her a life of being loved and well taken care of.
Have a great trip and celebration !
Knee high by the Fourth of July…I grew up in the Western part of NY State and heard that expression all the time. Doesn’t apply at all to where I currently live in NC. It has been very dry in my area too…everything in the yard is struggling.
So nice to have an update from you Sue. The boys are looking hale and healthy and I hope all the home repairs don’t pinch your budget too much. Guess the thrifting off-season will help the budget a little bit haha. Maybe your two pecan trees will alternate years so you have a crop every year…hope so. I’m thinking of Pecan Waffles right now…yumm.
Sue, You inspired me to get a Blackstone Griddle and I am really enjoying it. Got the 17″ for camping, but really would love to get the monster 36″ for the patio…just don’t see how I can justify it for just the two of us…but the extra room on it would be fun…quesadillas, fried rice, chicken wings, steak sandwiches, breakfast for dinner…
Gotta run and get the day started. All the best to you and the Crew, my Crew sends hugs.
Millie
Millie! I’m tickled that you are enjoying your Blackstone Griddle! Yeah, that 36″ “monster” is a beauty. My niece, Tawnya, in Mississippi has it for herself and husband.
I’m missing griddling these days — It’s just too hot to cook outside, but I know I’ll love it when I can set up the Blackstone again on the patio.
Your recipe repertoire (sp?) is impressive!
Best wishes and hugs to you, too.
So sorry about Smokie! You gave her the best life ever! I hope you and Jules have a wonderful trip. Can’t wait to hear about it when you get back.
Sounds like Smokie knew how to live in the best feline manner. She had a great life with her pals, thanks to you.
Congratulations to you and Jules on the 20 years! You’re going to have so much fun and make fantastic memories on that cruise. Tahiti. Wow! I’ll miss seeing you here but will love it when you return. 🙂
Sorry to hear about Smokie. I wonder sometimes if they’re ready to go before we’re ready to let them go. That’s been our experience.
Tahiti, wow. Have a wonderful trip. We’ll want all the details.
Happy Anniversary, Cindy and Jules!!! May you have many more!!!
Looking forward to hear about Tahiti!
Sorry to hear you had to get repairs done, Sue…oh well, Hubby and I always say we are supporting the local economy when the unexpected comes around…I am sure you will feel better with that mold gone too. Kind of amazing to think of mold in such a dry climate!!
Hi, Elizabeth…. I guess there was a rain forest climate up there in the ceiling, and fortunately we were not affected by the mold.
You and hubby have the right attitude — The job did provide a means for a good young man to move closer to his goals.
BBF photo is cute!
I knew you had been busy with something since we had not heard from you in a while.
I’m glad your helpers are helping you!
Me, too, Gumo. I can trust these “helpers” to do a good job. Nice hearing from you!
Yes, our monsoon has been a bust too. The Gila and Black Range are doing pretty good in the rain dept; but the storms very seldom venture over here to TorC. Lots of envy is aimed at those mountains. And the heat is getting unbearable, although I am trying to figure out if it’s hotter than in the past or is it because I am older than in the past.
I made a bird bath/fountain for my feathered friends and it so so much watching them taking their baths. The doves are finally getting smart to stand on the edge where the water runs to the next lower level and over their feet to cool them off after walking on the hot rocks in my yard. There is one who just gets in and sits in the cool water and won’t let anyone else join him/her.
I love the window pane shower curtain. When I was a child and visited my grandma in Tennessee during the summers, she had window pane curtains. I have window pane curtains in my bedroom, the dining room and living room windows and even in my Casita. Fond memories.
Good to hear from you.
Good to hear from you, too, Emily!
What a great description of the activities at your fountain. I enjoyed that very much. Maybe you will inspire others to help the birds get through this summer. I notice the birds around here have their beaks open a lot, due to the heat.
Window pane curtains and grandma…. 🙂
Okay, now get out there and do a rain dance for both of us!
oh well, yes, that would not be good to found naked under a moldy ceiling….
Hi, Dolores!
We’re still waiting for monsoons here in northwestern NM, too! The rest of the state has been getting rain for weeks — not us! And running 10-12 degrees above normal temps, as well. Thank heavens no humidity! I’m ready for September & October — and hopefully some rain!
Hi, Renee…. I guess the rest of the state you mention are the mountains that Emily mentioned. I see the same here… Dark clouds sail past us and drop rain on the mountains. I stand on the porch looking up and whispering, “Stop! Please don’t go!” 🙂
Okay, join Emily in a rain dance. I’ll do my part here (behind the privacy fence).
Hey there Sue, good to see ya in my inbox 😊
WE HAVE HEAT!!
Okay, after being able to blurt that out, haha, I want to say how cool it is you have pecans to look forward to. They are my favorite nut and are great added to smoothies or crumbled over salads. Yum.
Bummer about “this old house”, but it sounds like you were mentally prepared to deal with a few repairs. I have a story about bathroom leaks and black mold- but y’all are getting a reprieve from that one. Suffice it to say it wasn’t pretty!
Naked and crushed by moldy drywall? Now there’s a visual you just can’t unsee! 🤣🤣
We hit the trail in a week- Oregon Coast next stop. Cheers!
Suzi
Cheers to you and Larry, too! Good plan to save the Oregon Coast for September. I hear that’s the best time to be there. You’ll have great experiences because you have the right attitude and know how to make them happen.
I look forward to hearing more from you, as I’m sure do many others, blogorinos and lurkers, too — Hope you’ll keep writing!
Thanks Sue, I will keep writing. It brings me to your page and all the wonderful blogerinos in the community. I will write a review on the Wave3 after actually using it for a couple weeks. I worry about Kitty and singed cat hair- 😬😬 but I trust he will figure it out pronto and stay away from it. It’s the thing about how cats like to jump (and miss) and also they love to claim things (us) by walking all over them. 😅🤣. I’m sure other cat lovers can relate. Dogs are different, and I know a dog would really give the heater a wide berth. We will be doing some practice runs here in a day or two and I’ll let you all know how Mochi Kitty does.
After the OR Coast housesitting job, we will be off to spend October roaming Utah. We’ve always wanted to see more than Zion, Bryce, and Capitol Reef, so now we will get to, and hopefully escape the dreadful Summer heat and crowds. Just really can’t wait!
Would anyone like to chime in on some backcountry places to camp (in the Southern Utah area) that we should not miss?
Thanks Sue for your kind words and support of our journey. I’m so itching to get on the road South to Gold Beach, where we will be so close to the Redwoods. We have a nice big free lot to park on, right on the bluff over-looking the ocean, in exchange for watering, mail pick up, and a few light housekeeping tasks. We are hoping to get out for day trips to the Redwoods, and a few excursions up the wild Rogue River. Anyway…. let the new adventure begin! ❤️
Catch up with you down the road y’all! Hugs!
After moldy drywall falls on you in the shower you need to take a shower. I’m glad it didn’t catch you.
And so glad you found Dennis! A good handyman is worth his weight in gold.
When I remember the pictures of your house you have posted I feel my stress levels drop. Such lovely decor.
Thank you for still being here.
You’re welcome, Linda, and thank YOU for being here, too.
How nice of you to compliment the house décor. This house has the same effect on me. Very peaceful environment which may be a big reason why I don’t want to leave it!
Yes, Dennis is a treasure, both professionally and personally.
Sue, came across this article on pecan trees…might give you an idea about yours:
https://www.noble.org/news/publications/ag-news-and-views/2016/june/cross-pollination-is-essential/
That’s a very good article, Elizabeth. Good, helpful information. Thanks for posting the link.
You are welcome…happy to share!! Doubtful we will have a tree of our own again…but my nut trees are the best!! Happy eating!!
Greetings Sue!
Glad to hear from you and R&R!
Your place looks so neat and nice…sorry you have that abundance of brown where green ought to be! Cycles! Thank heavens for seasons!
Again, Reggie is SO glad you let Roger stay! Really! Roger is too! Me too! They look so good for each other.
The worms sound nasty…can’t hang out with something like that and have a good time for sure. Not even for grapes!
Thanks for the laugh from what may have happened…your shocked image of showering with a sudden plop of that moldy nasty sheet rock landing on you! You may have really scared the boys (and any neighbors listening!) with your verbal shock! I don’t believe you would have taken that quietly!! That Dennis sure is a treasure! Lucky you!
Looks like you found a great place for yourself! Made greater by yourself! Congrats!
Now, we are starting another day to finish our project-The Kitchen! Floor joists to studs! Moved electrical and plumbing! Been going on for months! To be finished next week! Well, except for trim molding but that will be a walk in the park! Of course there are other but smaller projects that move up one spot now!!
It’s a good thing we like what we do but we both are looking for ‘the end’!!!
Thanks for this blog…look forward to it and the other blogorinos!
Mary Batt in Abita, LA
You’re welcome, Mary. You make blogging worth the effort.
I admire your patience with the remodeling. Our little bathroom ceiling project is enough disruption. I can’t imagine dealing with floor joists and electrical and plumbing and trim and then there’s the painting…. You’re going to be SO happy when it’s all done. 🙂
Hi, Sue,
Great to have you online again. I don’t have any experience with pecan trees, but I know all about moldy drywall and my experience was not fun. Hope you fare better than I did. At least you have the BLT to spend the night in if the drywall dust gets to you like it did to me.
Stay cool out there!
It’s great to see you here, Joe. I hope you’re having a good summer.
About drywall dust… I bet you had a terrible time with it. Dennis and his helper got it in their eyes and couldn’t help but breathe it in. They tried to keep masks on but those things are hot to wear, and combined with working in the heat next to the ceiling, they couldn’t bear to keep them on all the while.
As for me and the crew, we could stay out of the worst of it, although the dust has made its way all over the house and floor, requiring top to bottom cleaning. Again I thank God for air conditioning! And retirement!
Welcome back, Sue. Good to “see” you here again. Enjoyable read, as always.
Thanks, Renee. I feel the same way about you! 🙂
Lovely to hear from you, as always. Triple digits here this week also. Ugh! My house was built in 1955 so I can certainly relate to old house repairs. Last year was the second time I’ve re-roofed in the 35 years I’ve lived here. Now I need to find an electrician to see what’s tripping one of the breakers. I haven’t been on the road in my Roadtrek since my last attempted trip which had me stalled in the middle of a busy street and 6 hours waiting for a tow. Kind of ruined my confidence but I’m trying to get my travel mojo back. I’m only 70 so hopefully many more road trips still ahead. I haven’t shopped at Amazon lately but when I do I launch from your blog so there’s some benefit to you. Take care and stay cool! Love to you and R&R
Love to you and your crew, too, Linda Rose. I know you’re an RVSue shopper and I appreciate that.
Sorry to hear that your confidence took a hit from that bad episode. I understand the feeling; I was that way for a while after the BLT bounced off the hitch ball. The “what ifs” prey on one’s mind.
Good for you, “trying to get my travel mojo back.” And yes, you’re “only 70.” 🙂 Once you “get back on the horse” and collect a few fun travel experiences, your confidence will come back strong again.
Thanks for sharing the above. You probably aren’t the only one who could use a confidence boost and that’s a comfort to folks.
Good luck with the home repairs!
Great to see your post. Always fun to read no matter what you’re up to.
Thanks for the encouraging words, Annie. Have a blessed day!
Okay, blogorinos . . .
I’m going to go offline and get a few things done before the day’s heat settles in. I leave it up to you to keep this place alive, whether a new comment or a reply to another’s comment or both.
I doubt any of you realize how much your words give to others, in entertainment, in comfort, in knowledge, and in companionship. I know I need reminding of that myself.
So carry on! I love you! Sue
Living out here in farm country it’s clear how hard it is to farm, every year is so variable. The hay crop was almost 50% more than last years (according to the farmer who cuts our pasture). Last year almost no black walnuts and no pears, this year the trees are groaning with fruit. Plus the birds had a bounty of cherries compared to last year. The apple trees are keeping the deer fed every evening, like last year but even more and much bigger fruit. But the crab apple tree has almost nothing compared to last year. So enjoy your pecans, who knows what next year will bring.
Hi Sue! I love the last picture of Roger and Reggie. They are so adorable. So sorry about your bathroom ceiling. I’m glad that you seem to have caught the mold before it is wide spread. I’m really sorry about the extra expense. I too have an older town house, and I keep a home warranty on it on and off over the years. I don’t know if the cost is worth it, but it does give piece of mind for a bad emergency. The kitties and I are doing well. I’m just trying to figure out how to navigate life with aging and infirm parents. It’s a hard learning curve for all of us.
MB, you around? How are you and your uncle doing?
Hi Dawn,
I’m here. Thank you for asking. He just finished up with two minor surgeries. While they were extremely stressful, they have the potential of improving his quality of life (Fingers and toes crossed!).
I haven’t commented lately because I’ve been a little depressed. I was very involved with wound care for Uncle for many months and then the surgery. My sweet little place where we live is in need of a little TLC….like your place Sue. And my F-150 now has over 200,000 miles. It still runs like a much younger truck but still……. And I had all that worked out. I was going to buy a van and start turning it into a camper….one project at a time. And I was going to take out a small home improvement loan.
Then I had a big surprise. My friend/boss told me that a majority of our work was being transferred to an Asian company…..so……unless we can find more quickly, my job will be gone in 2-6 months. I could write so much but will spare you. 😉
Sooooo…….decision time. I can stay here and look for a job. Or, I can go west and look for one. I can drive my F-150 or buy this cool conversion van I saw. It has a little over 100,000 miles but that’s way less than my truck. It’s a 2004 E250 gas van. Anyone know about this year’s engine?
I’m leaning toward going west. Of course, the question is….what to do about Uncle? I would rather go alone…..use the time for a “Vision Quest” of sorts. I’m hoping these surgeries will make him more capable of caring for himself for a couple of months. AND….while it’s difficult for me……I will be asking for help on that front.
I haven’t told anyone here about the job thing. Too many (loving&concerned) opinions would come at me fast and furious. And while I love them for it….it’s not what I need right now. BUT…..I would much appreciate thoughts from those here. You are a kind, caring, knowledgeable group and you are not in my “physical circle of friends” though I consider you friends in another way.
Weather…..I am especially remembering your statement to me before….”There are Wal-Marts everywhere”. This is true in the literal sense and in the metaphorical sense. I am soooo like my dad. I over-think everything and am detail oriented. Came in really handy for the job I do but for things like this…..I can get overwhelmed. So……your advice will be my mantra. 🙂
I enjoyed reading all the comments here! And Thank you Dawn for asking about Uncle. Sorry for the very long answer.
I hope you are having a wonderful Sunday!
Love,
MB, Bella and Molly from VA
MB, you know the direction you want to go. Given that, I’d look at the job issue as a hint to speed up the timeline.
Thank you Calvin. That is basically my thought too. See it as an opportunity not a set back. Some wonderful things may be awaiting me there. But I’ll never know what they are if I stay here. And maybe I’ll go and hate it. Come back here and live for the rest of my life. That would be fine too because at least I would have tried it.
Thank you again! Have a great day!
MB
It had to be hard to step back into this circle of caring people as you’ve been a little depressed, MB, thanks for doing it despite any reluctance you may have felt. Welcome back 🙂 !!! Hopefully, it helps you to continue staying in touch, I have found that hibernating for too long does little to help a person, and sometimes can add to any problems that already exist.
Learning that your job will likely be gone soon may have been a nasty surprise, one that makes rethinking so much become necessary… A few thoughts I had while reading your comment are just that, thoughts, not anything that your disagreeing with would upset me, at all.
If I knew my income was about to disappear, I wouldn’t spend a dime except on absolute necessities. So I would keep my present vehicle, and let it be enough for transportation and/or explorations. A truck bed or used tent can be a shelter on the road if necessary, luxurious comforts are nice , yet won’t pay for groceries and necessities as time goes on. Also, I wouldn’t take out a home improvement loan. That home is a secure asset now, anything like a loan might place your ownership of it at risk if you don’t get another job/ source of income in a timely fashion.
So, I hope you are fortunate enough to find a source of income that works well and easily for you. And I think you need to really search your heart for an answer about traveling without your uncle. I think you considered doing that before and realized you just didn’t feel ok with it all. Sending hugs and best wishes.
Thank you Weather!
Yea…..the loan is definitely not going to happen right now. The house things are not emergencies. And the house is paid for so it is certainly an asset. As long as I can pay the taxes, it’s mine.
The truck/van question is still under review. As is Uncle. If I take him….with his issues, it would be much more easily done with the van….which even has a wheelchair lift. He’s not in one right now (he has one) but who knows? And….I do have two people in town now who could look in on him for me. That’s different from last time.
The job? I’m hoping we can pull it out. And we may be able to. Second choice would be another one I could do remotely like this one. But if I have to get a 9 to 5, travel would be off the table for who knows how long.
I have two dolls on my window sill near my work space. As I was looking at them the other day I realized that they truly symbolize who I am. One is a “storyteller” doll I got on the rez in AZ. The other I made. It was one of those things you just “start” with no clear idea of how it will evolve. Well, looking at it a few weeks ago (before the job surprise) I realized that she is a traveler. What’s making me feel not myself is that I’m a traveler who is stuck in one place. And I’m a storyteller with no new stories to tell.
I think I need a little shaking up. This has certainly done it! 😉
Thank you again for your comment.
Love from VA
Hm-m, so if uncle could stay home, be comfortable and being looked after, and you can do your current job remotely, theoretically, you could hit the road now in your truck, continue working, spend an hour a day looking online for another job that allows remote work, and that would be covering your responsibilities for today, as well as potentially removing the insecurity your current job status has, and allow you to travel, too.
Those dolls seem to be self-portraits, what we keep near us can hold some powerful messages… By the way, your story already is wonderfully interesting.
“Hm-m, so if uncle could stay home, be comfortable and being looked after, and you can do your current job remotely, theoretically, you could hit the road now in your truck, continue working, spend an hour a day looking online for another job that allows remote work, and that would be covering your responsibilities for today, as well as potentially removing the insecurity your current job status has, and allow you to travel, too.”>>>>>Yes. That would be fairly easy. And who knows? I may even find a job out there that I love! Thank you again for your thoughts. They do mean a lot.
Hi MB! Thanks for the response! I am so sorry about your job. However, as you pointed out, it may be a blessing in disguise, or at least something that will shake things up a bit. I appreciate your writing, despite being depressed. We love to hear from you and you could never bring us down. I am really relating to your pull between caring for your uncle and hitting the road. I feel a similar way about my parents. I was finally ready to consider moving to another state for a new career, if I could get it, that would mean financial security and fit into long term goals. However, both my parents’ health is rocky right now. Although I am 100 miles away, I can still go on weekends to help. So, I don’t feel free to move out of state and pursue another career. I admire your commitment to your uncle. I am so happy for you that you now have people that can help you look after him. You are a wonderful niece! Please keep us posted!
MB, follow what makes the best decision at this point in time without closing any doors or expending a good deal of money. Columbus Calvin makes a point. Weather, always the voice of wisdom, makes valid points as well. The most important thing is there are people who can look in on your uncle which allows you to hit the road and do your current job remotely. Well girl, listen to your dolls and your heart. Apologize for lateness of my reply.
Thank you JazzLover! Such a sweet, thoughtful comment…..and much appreciated.
Hi Dawn….I am sorry! I thought I responded to your second post!
I understand what you mean about wanting to be near your parents. I am an only child. I wanted to stay near my parents when they needed me. There were times I wanted to get away. But mostly, I wanted to be here for them. There was a lot of love between us. Enjoy yours as much as you can and I hope you all will be able to enjoy the fall weather to come! Can’t wait. HOT, HUMID summer here.
Take care!
Love from VA
MB
It so good to see your post. Sorry to be so long reading and commenting. This is a very busy month. DH started his cataract surgeries on 8/7. Due to his overall health issues it had to be done in the hospital. HE had the second eye done yesterday and both times we were at the hospital for 5 hours. Then the next day follow-ups and then again at one week. I have yet to figure out how one gets so tired sitting and reading all that time. Haha! At any rate he is pleased with the results and seems a lot happier now that he can see again. Yay!
Now I need to get to work. Sorry I can’t comment more right now.
GREAT NEWS, BARBARA! How wonderful that your husband can see again!
Thanks for telling of the successful surgery for your husband!! We have heard mixed reviews of the cataract surgeries (both of our dads had one great eye and the other eye never was up to par…which has made us hesitant to go through with that yet).
Awe Sue!! I love your easy going attitude! Stuff breaks weather you are on the road or at your house😄. Monsoon went into hiding this year. My poor roses😢 The pups look as adorable as ever! Enjoyed your post. Take care and stay cool!✌
Great to see a new post, Sue. I was relieved that the leak was from a pipe. I was almost expecting you to say the roof was leaking, but of course, you’ve had dry weather, so that wouldn’t have made any sense.
Yes, Sue, Cortlands are the absolute best apple in the world, and being here in apple country, and having worked at many farms growing up, I’ve tasted almost all of them. I find the Cortland to be sweet, crisp and perfectly balanced, however, it is only good for 2-3 weeks out of the year, as I don’t think it stores that well. Maybe that’s why we love it so, it’s perfection is ephemeral.
Hugs to the boys.
Oh, I nearly spit my coffee all over the computer screen at the thought of you crumpled naked under a heap of moldy drywall! Yes, things happen in a house and there’s no sense in getting upset. That’s why being frugal and having savings for those little (or big) maintenance projects is a good idea.
Sammy started acupuncture treatments yesterday for his arthritis pain and immobility and I’ll be darned if he didn’t get up off his bed this morning with his tail wagging as soon as I came downstairs – it was the first time he’s done that in months! Hoping this treatment has some long-lasting effects!
So sorry to hear you haven’t had the monsoons you were hoping for. The weather has been very different here this summer – we’ve really only had a couple of hot days and I only turned the A/C on one time. Of course, as soon as I say that, we’ll probably get a scorcher of a September!
YAY FOR SAMMY!
That’s wonderful news, Cynthia. I’m happy for everyone in your household. 🙂
Hi Sue and blogorinos, The title of you blog reminds me of the song Rosemary Clooney and Bette Middle sang. “This old house”. Sorry about your shower ceiling that also brings back memories.
That song is where I got the title. I remember hearing it often during childhood and I think my mother sang it. One of Lawrence Welk’s singers used to sing it with his very deep bass voice. Some say the “old house” refers to the human body falling apart as it ages.
Sue,
That was Larry Hooper who sang that song. I met him and his wife when I worked in LA. He was the kindest and most wonderful person. So was his wife. They seemed to be such a perfecty matched couple. I spent quite a few hours with them over several months. The last time I saw them, he reminded me to keep in touch and come out to their home and “we’ll barbeque a skunk or something.” I moved to Oregon after that and one evening, I turned on the TV and there was Lawrence introducing Larry on his first night back on the show after being out for a while due to illness. I sat and cried while he sang. Never did get to taste that skunk.
Anne
Ah, Lawrence Welk…I SO loved watching that show at my grandparent’s house when I was young…loved the Lennon Sisters and that couple who sang the most beautiful love songs!! Those were the days!! And in black and white no less too!!
Lisa shared this hummus recipe under a previous post. I move it here for more people to see. — Sue
Hummus is easy to make.
Here is how I do it:
In a blender, put 3 parts cooked chickpeas, 1 part tahini, add olive oil and just a little lemon juice to help blend because it’s really thick. I have also used the liquid from the canned chickpeas. Season with garlic and salt, then add whatever extras you like.
I have added hot peppers, rosemary, coarse black pepper….but not all of those; Pick one and experiment. The tahini will keep in the cupboard (except maybe not AZ), keep it where you have your peanut butter. You can skip the salt if you use canned chickpeas. If you cook your own, make them really soft with extra water and they will blend even easier.
This also freezes well in a ziplock if you get all the air out of the bag. A small bag frozen can be a great freezer pack in your lunch. Add crackers, fruit or veggie sticks and you are good to go. You won’t even need to refrigerate your lunch sack. The frozen Hummus will thaw on the shelf and keep the rest cool.
What other recipes does everyone have to make something that is pricey at the store? Kitchen Hacks anyone???
That sounds yummy Lisa! I will have to save this and put it in my recipe box!
Hi Sue,
I had typed a reply and posted it 24 hours after your new post. I skipped over here to read of your goings on and PHEW, almost 90 comments!
Hi everyone, I hope you enjoy the recipe below,…and can someone let Dawn know? Thanks.
Sue I just love the pic of the two boys cuddled on the bed, although I suspect it took expert timing to catch that “cuddle” before it erupted into more vigorous activity, LOL. Well it’s too hot here to work on the truck in the driveway, so I guess I’ll have to get into the trailer and turn on the AC. There’s always something to fix before a trip.
Happy times everyone
Look above, Lisa. I already pasted your comment, so I’m editing out your repeat of the recipe. Hope that’s okay. 🙂
Hi there.. FYI you aren’t the only one wondering & worrying about no monsoon season this year. My mother has been talking to her friends over at Westgate and Parker Canyon Lake.. they are all on well water and the water table is way down and fire danger way up.. biggest concern is the well water for all the residents there, plus Sonoita & Patagonia… not good…
meanwhile here in NW Arkansas, we had 3” over 36 hrs on Thursday.. wish we could send some down your way!! Glad to see your post.. stay cool and keep us updated on the house…enjoy reading about your adventures as always…
Hi, Sue and fellow blogorinos,
I hope you have a great day! This morning started out nice and cool. Sweater weather is just around the corner! 😊
Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! xo 😊
Here is a recipe for a quick pasta sauce. In the time that it takes bring a pot of water to boil and cook pasta, you can have sauce made from scratch. Better than jarred sauce, and you control the salt content.
Quick and Easy Pasta Sauce
2T Olive Oil
2 Shallots, finely chopped
1t Dried Basil
28oz Puréed Tomatoes
Salt & Pepper to taste
Heat the oil in a pot. Add the shallots. Cook until just softened – not brown.
Add the basil to the shallots. Stir for 10-15 seconds – just enough to draw out the oil/flavor from the dried herb. When you smell the basil, it is time to add the tomato purée.
Bring the sauce to a boil, then cover the pot and turn down the heat to low. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes. Add salt and/or pepper to taste. Enjoy! 😊
If you have fresh basil on hand, use 2t – thinly sliced.
Sounds yummy!!
😊
Hi Denise!
AHHH! I appreciate your pasta sauce recipe! I can smell the aromas! It has me wanting to get to the grocery and kitchen! I am looking forward to getting this sauce going–for me, I will add some green bell peppers and garlic to this with a few (9-10) flakes of oregano. But you got me thinking!
This sauce can be used with Triscuit crackers like little pizzas!
Thanks for the boost!
mb in Abita, LA
Great attitude, Sue, but I do hope you don’t have any more big surprises!
Lucky to have a reliable trades person you can call upon. That’s not always the case, sadly. We have a similar situation here with our kitchen ceiling. You know it’s going to be expensive, just looking at it. Cute pic of your boys at the bottom.
Shoutout to Desert Ginger. Just wondering how you are doing.
Seeing the pic of R&R causes me to recall how Missy came upon each of them. They were such good finds and by now neither of the little guys remember being any other life.
I cannot imagine Missy without those guys. I haven’t been feeling great but reading your posts and the blogorino comments always lifts me up. *HUG* for Missy…
Hi, Jim, just seeing your name appear here always makes me glad. I’m sorry, though, that you haven’t been feeling great. I hope and pray whatever problem has been causing that is soon taken care of so you can feel better.
Glad to hear you are still managing Jim…hope cooler Fall weather might be a boon to how you are feeling (I surely look forward to such here…some of our hottest days are now on us…but then it is August, after all…and we see a few trees starting the color change, subtly for now…but it lets us know cooler days are on the way!!) Blessings on you…may you be comforted!!
Hi, Jim,
I think of you often. So glad to see that you popped in for a visit! 😊
Sending you a **hug** Take good care of yourself!
Thanks guys for the kindness. I’ve been in a mental hole since losing my Detta but otherwise I am managing. 48 years of marriage to my baby leaves so many memories that something is always jumping into my mind. I am not the same guy I was but I am managing one day at a time. Love ya and HUGS…Jim
I have yet to experience your kind of grief, Jim…but likely it will come to all of us, one way or another…esp. as we age. I know for sure the other griefs in my life changed me…it is the price we pay for love. One thing that has helped me all the many years since 1974 when my young brother was killed by a drunk driver, was I have always just thought of him as being away from home for awhile. I still try to think that way with others I have loved and lost too…though it works better some days than others. You are blessed to have had such a wonderful spouse all those years!! I hope the happy memories will keep coming along to cheer you up!!
Hi Jim, (Hi Sue & Blogorinos)
I feel for you. Sunday was my fourtieth wedding anniversary. It would’ve been a heck of a lot better with my husband here to share it. The only thing we ever planned was growing old together. It’s been 13 1/2 years. I love him more than ever and still miss him so very much. I tell myself that he wouldn’t want me to be sad and remind myself to live for him too. It’s hard to do – we were soul mates, as I suspect you and Detta were. I still tell Mark I love and miss him – makes me feel like he’s still close.
Not much to say lately – Mark’s mom passed away in February – now all our parents are gone. Life’s changed again and trying to figure out what, if anything, to do. Keep dreaming of returning to the land of our honeymoom and enjoyed hearing others go on about Colorado. Want to see Utah and Wyoming, too. Still clearing clutter. Gave away a sofa/sleeper and other odds and ends. There is so much more to go, but every item gone feels good. If that makes sense.
Waiting to see the hurricane move away from Florida. Right now, the track is supposed to go right over us, but that will change before Monday or Tuesday when it’s supposed to make landfall. Thinking of you Geri & Chuck. Stay safe!!
My friend, who is from here, says they hype it up so bad and you might get a leaf in your yard. She’s so funny. But yes, Irma was not nice to me and while I was and am prepared, having to get a new roof and repair the fence is not something I want to do again. Or the no electricity for 4 days in the 90 degree heat. Keep good thoughts & send some prayers our way.
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, Barb. I hope the storm spares your area. Take good care of yourself! 😊
Thanks Denise and others for your good wishes & prayers. Sorry it took a while to get back here. Trying to prepare as best we can and trying not to get worried. Looks like it won’t be bad if it stays on track. Only 40 to 50 mph winds are predicted for us. Tampa has only a 30 percent chance of rain for that day. Now if it will just do what they think it will, we should be fine. Only one neighbor has boarded up.
Have a great Labor Day everyone!
Hi, Sue and fellow blogorinos,
What do you have planned for this holiday weekend? Tomorrow morning a friend will pick me up and help me run a few errands. Afterwards we plan to go out to lunch. The rest of the weekend will be quiet. Gracie pup will enjoy my undivided attention. 😊
I hope that those who are in the path of hurricane Dorian will be spared of her wrath. Please be safe.
For the blogorinos who are camping, may you find a nice, quiet spot with no generators or clingers!
Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! xo 😊
Hi Denise! I have only a few plans this weekend. I went to brunch with friends and will go to the movies later. I plan on throughly reorganizing my kitchen this weekend. I’m tired of having too many things out on the counters. Other than that, I’m enjoying my weekend at home. I do plan to try a new recipe tomorrow for summer corn chowder.
I hope everyone had a relaxing weekend!
😊
We plan to be lazy, per usual…not planning on going anywhere…hope you and Gracie pup have a nice peaceful set of days, Denise! And sure hope the hurricane turns and goes out to sea soon!! We have kin in NC…but generally where they are is not real bad. Flooding is the main concern.
😊
Weather, wondering if your ring was found yet? Still thinking on that…and saying little prayers here and there…hope all is well!!
Thank you, Elizabeth, for the prayers. All is well, though I still don’t have the ring. I really didn’t expect it back since the moment it fell into the lake. Watching how it’s being lost caused so many people to be exceptionally kind was enough consolation for me to not fret about it, honestly.
You know how when you wear a ring for years it seems to become almost like part of your finger, and barely noticed anymore? It’s absence felt strange, at first that tugged on my heart. Yet I notice how people around me feel all the time, so if they aren’t being sweet with one another, it bothers me. Every little thing involved with their caring, chatting, and being involved with the search gave me a more peaceful feeling. I guess it’s comes down to what one chooses to focus on…a loss or whatever goodness an event causes.
Sending you hugs, Weather!! I understand what you share…life is short and we are always having to make “the best” we can of things that happen…take care!!
Hi Weather,
I love what you wrote at the end- nothing is truer. Bummer about losing your ring. I lost a very sacred ring, but I had no idea where. As in, you are so right, they become a part of your finger, so I couldn’t remember the last time I actually remembered looking at it on my finger. Weeks, months went by, and I was resolved that I’d never see it again. I began to think I’d lost it on either my flight or in an airport at either end. Months later, a very long time, Larry came in the house and said, “you’ll never guess what I found.” And no, I couldn’t guess. He’d just been out back watering. Well, he held up my muddy ring, and I about died. He turned the hose into one of my potted deck plants, and there in the unfurled dirt, was something shiny. My ring. Buried for who knows how long down in a pot of dirt.
Life is strange this way. Just like cats that wander home after being gone months- a year even. Your ring may never tell it’s story, but the outcome of friendship and relationships bonded by your loss, tell an even better story don’t they?
When I look down at my ring, I will think of you and your comment. It made an impact.
That’s a great story about your ring, Suzi, thank you, for sharing it, and for letting me know that you understand and appreciate what I wrote.
This is my all time favorite photo. Reggie and Roger checking out the scenery.
Hopefully the monsoons will visit soon. We had a few afternoon showers here in El Paso.
I hope that everyone on the east coast is staying thanks this week. I wish Hurricane Dorian a speedy farewell! With the current projected maps, I’ll probably get wind and rain, but won’t get the brunt of the hurricane. I hope it goes out to sea. I that all you blogorinos in the path are prepared and stay safe!
We certainly hope and pray no one else is lost, though I think it a miracle most people survived it in Bermuda!!! Most of our kids and grandkids still live in the middle of NC too…all there will be on our minds and in our prayers!! Take care too!!
We certainly hope and pray no one else is lost, though I think it a miracle most people survived it in Bermuda!!! Most of our kids and grandkids still live in the middle of NC too…all there will be on our minds and in our prayers!! Take care too!!
I hope your family is out of harm’s way, Elizabeth! 😊
Heard from one…barely a rain and wind storm there…and prior to the storm the others were not expecting much and have not heard differently…so I assume no news is good news there! Thanks Denise…bad storms are just part of life there in NC…usually the more normal rain and wind is sometimes worse than the edge of hurricanes…so we figured it would be ok.
Stay safe, Dawn! 😊
Sand and soil were blowing down the lane outside of my window. Like an opaque brown river fifteen feet tall it made seeing anything behind it almost impossible. The dark blue cloud cover moving overhead made it as dark out as a late evening, though it was still well before noon. When the ground lightning began in small bursts I turned off and disconnected all the appliances that might be damaged as soon as the full on storm hit. When it did the power went out, and I was glad to be inside, just watching and listening to what was happening outside.
This time we were fortunate enough to only have a few fallen twigs, and our electrical service was restored within an hour. Now a light breeze is drying all the trees’ leaves as they glisten in the sunlight. What might have been troublesome turned out to be just an experience with some pretty intensely anxious feelings, followed by another lovely part of life.
That’s all oddly similar to what my granddaughter and I have been going through together. She has returned to the university for her senior year that began over a week ago. Her not feeling ready to do what she has to keeps making her anxious that there are dark times ahead. So we spend a lot of time focusing on each small step forward, push through the walls of discouragement and ensuing exhaustion, take breaks to just feel happy to be safe and together, and start again when we feel like the storm has passed.
Don’t know if anyone reading this remembers difficulties feeling insurmountable at a young age. I clearly recall at times thinking I was the only one so messed up that life seemed like a series of struggles when I was twenty one. Try to put on a good front, do what I had to, go home and wait until no one would know, then fall apart… Now that I know how to not let rough times frighten me, my calm can soothe one too young to find it on her own yet. Nice how that works out, good job planning it all, God, thanks.
What I described above is why I haven’t taken the time to comment much recently. Life is good, sweetly rewarding, and promises to be even more so ahead. I hope you all are well, and feeling as though you have a lot to be grateful for, too.
Weather, you always write such thoughtful and wise comments. I do remember feeling anxious and overwhelmed when I was younger. When I have seasons like that now, I have better tools to deal it with it than when I was twenty one. Your granddaughter is a very fortunate person indeed to have such a thoughtful and caring grandmother to help guide her through this hard time in her life. Thank you for stopping by and letting us know what is going on with you.
Thank you, Dawn, for letting me know you understand what I meant. According to the news Hurricane Dorian’s effects may be felt in your state sometime today, stay safe.
Hi, weather,
You are a blessing to your grandchildren! It makes a huge difference for a young person to have someone other than their parents to confide in and seek comfort and advice. I send wishes for your granddaughter to have a successful senior year. With your help, she will be better equipped to navigate the challenges ahead. I am so glad that she reached out to you. Sending you a happy *hug*.
So glad that the storm brought minimal damage, and that your power was quickly restored. I am glad that you were able to watch the storm’s beauty from the safety of your home. Have the trees started to change into their vibrant autumn colors yet?
Early this morning, a tornado/waterspout came ashore to Emerald Isle, NC. A RV park had trailers tossed about, roofs peeled off…it looks like a war zone. It is truly amazing that there were no injuries or fatalities. Thank God! There were people in some of the trailers when the tornado hit. Amazingly, they were able to walk away. An adjacent RV storage lot and water park were wiped out, too. Stuff can be replaced. Dorian is slowly making her way along the NC coast this evening….adding more destruction and damage to the area. I have been sending up extra prayers for protection for all in the storm’s path. Richmond is expecting rain and high winds from the outer bands of Dorian; we will be spared her wrath. A minor inconvenience!
Have a good evening, weather! I was happy to see that you popped in for a visit! 😊
Hi, Denise, after seeing your comment I found a video showing the damage to that RV park, wow, amazing that there were no fatalities reported. An online article I just read says more than 200,ooo people are without power in that area. All of that must be felt as hardships, it’s awful just imagining what people are going through in the Bahamas. All a good reminder to be grateful for each blessing we have on an average day with no real disaster…
Thanks for your sweet note, good wishes and the happy hug. There are no signs whatsoever yet of autumn here, no color changes, just less heat and humidity than was felt as recently as last week. Sending a hug and saying a prayer that your recovery is going really well.
Hi, weather,
Thank you for the hug and your well wishes! 😊
A co-worker has close friends that live on Emerald Isle, so he was passing on first-hand information to me. Emerald Isle, NC is one of my happy places. Quiet, non-commercialized, a bird and sea turtle sanctuary. The Atlantic Ocean on one side, the Sound on the other. A slice of heaven in my book. It saddened me to see so much damage, but the folks who live there year-round are resilient and pitch in to help each other. Good people. Much of the power has been restored today and residents were allowed to come back on the island.
So thankful that the Holiday Trav-L-Park had minimal damage. It is a nice, family run RV park with many seasonal residents in park models, and sites to accommodate from tent campers to those with long travel trailers. One of my sisters and her family (& in-laws) vacation there annually. One year our vacations overlapped and I was able to spend time with them at the park. HTP is right on the ocean, but it protected by a large land/sand berm. Their storage lot, just down the road a bit did have extensive damage to RVs that were stored there. Once again, stuff can be replaced. For more info go to http://www.newsobserver.com.
My heart goes out to those who have lost so much. Especially those who lost loved ones. The devastation in the Bahamas is…there are no words.
Even though sometimes we hit rough patches, we are still truly blessed to have a home, food, the necessities and then some. I echoed your same thoughts when talking to friends and sisters last night. So grateful for all of my blessings.
We had an uneventful day here. No rain, some wind, no biggie. We have nice cool temps in the 70s which will last through the weekend. No Fall color changes yet, but the squirrels have been busy stockpiling nuts and pine cones for the winter. One squirrel whom I call Sparky has been very creative with his stash. He filled a ceramic birdhouse, about the size of a pie pumpkin with acorns! No hungry winter belly for him! 😊
Have a good evening and a great weekend, weather! Sending you a **hug** 😊
Saw your comment just as we(Polly and Kyla kitties, and I) are ready to tuck in. Nice long day has us contentedly tired . I’ll respond to what you wrote tomorrow. For now hugs and n’nite to Sparky, Gracie pup, and you
…..and to Sue, too
N ‘nite, weather, Polly, and Kyla! 😊
And to Sue, Reggie, and Roger, too! 😊
Emerald Isle really does sound like a special place, I can understand your considering it “a slice of heaven”, Denise. It’s having resilient residents that help each other adds a lot to it’s allure. We know even they must feel shaken after such events, though. Just a temporary feeling that our homes are threatened can be hard for our hearts and minds to cope with.
Whether it’s closing a wooden door or zipping a tent flap closed, going inside our own place can be such a comfort. My prayer for all that the hurricane(or any disaster) caused to now be without a home is that they soon at least can feel safe and secure.
Hopefully you have a pleasant weekend to enjoy being entertained by wildlife around your place. I love the ways you describe that 🙂
xo 😊
All your plants need some good rain… It seems like there is always some fixing to do in an RV and in a house as well…
It has been a long time since I have replied , but I am a faithful follower. This summer has been very different in my neck of the woods too. First we didn’t think it would every get warm, then it was hot for a week, and then we have had a cool wet summer. Weren’t sure if the crops would get planted but they did. We were fortunate not to be in the horrible flooding in our state. But because of the cool wet summer the weeds are horrific. If I don’t pull them each day it seems if they grow a foot over night and invite friends to the party.
Love what you are doing to your home.
Judith
The thrift store have been very good to me this summer. I have found many terrific treasures that can be used in the renovation of my tiny vintage fiberglass trailer. Summer in Seattle is when all the garage sales happen so that means what does not sell gets donated. It is prime time shopping 🙂
Tried to post Happy Birthday to Pauline yesterday but the math problem wouldn’t let me get past 2 +1 = 3. Hope you had a wonderful day, Pauline.
Happy Birthday, Pauline! 🎂
Good Morning Everyone! I hope that you had a great weekend and a decent Monday to start off your week. I don’t have much news to report. I had a casual weekend, but did make a new recipe, which I have decided I will eat, but not make again. It was a Turmeric Vegetable Stew. It turned out a little bitter and uncohesive. However, that’s the fun in trying new recipes, you never know if you will like it or not. I am having fun running small experiments in my kitchen. I fried up some chickpeas in onions, garlic and taco spices. I then made quesadillas out of them, with cheese, sour cream, salsa and avocado. They were really tasty. I’m trying to cut down on the amount of meat that I eat. I’m not anti meat, I just don’t want it to be the basis of every meal.
Well, that’s what I’ve been up to, what about everyone else?
Hi, Dawn,
At least your new recipe was edible. I hate when I try a recipe and I have to pitch it! Thankfully, that not happen very often. 😊
Earlier this afternoon I took Gracie out for a potty break. I thought I saw a male cardinal in a neighbor’s tree. The bright red caught my eye. I looked a little closer to find that it was not a cardinal, but the first bright red autumn leaf! The green berries on my nandina shrub have a pinkish tinge…they are on the verge of turning red. The leaves of the same shrub have been a snack for a deer. He/she has visited twice; I hope they come back. Last year the deer did not visit, so I am very happy to see that they returned! When I spot a bare stem 5 feet up or higher, it makes me smile. Nandinas are tough. In past years, the deer have eaten the leaves and tender shoots down to the wood. No worries though, in Spring the shrub regenerates new foliage.
Since late last week, the evening temperatures have been cool enough to shut off the heat pump until late morning when the temps start to rise. I love sweater weather where heat or a/c is not needed. I am ready for Autumn! Time to switch out my house and garden flags from summer to autumn designs, and put a Fall wreath on the front door. 😊
I will be interested in Sue’s reply regarding Kilamook ice cream. The larger Kroger stores in the area have started to carry it. We will have to all of the varieties over time, won’t we? How else will we be able to find our favorite?! 😂
Enjoy the rest of your week, Dawn! It was nice to catch up with you on Sue’s front porch. 😊
Tillamook ice cream!
Oh Sue, Tillamook brand has finally appeared in NC. Any recommendations on ice cream flavors?
Hey, I’m not Sue, but I’m Suzi, haha- Tillamook makes a killer Huckleberry ice cream in season. Hope you can find it someday. Yummy!
Hey Sue,
What’s the name of the maps you used when you were camping? I remember bench but that’s all.
Hi Dawn, I think it’s Benchmark road and recreation atlas, that Sue uses. What am I doing up so late or early. Good night.
Thank you Jo! Now go get some sleep.
Hi Sue and Bloggerinos,
Love the header and footer pictures of the boys, so frisky and sweet.
We love our Tillamook ice cream here in Oregon. You can’t go wrong with any flavors. My current favorite is Rocky Road. My husband loves Old Fashioned Vanilla. Who doesn’t love Vanilla Bean with Blackberry cobbler.
We have had sunny dry weather since April, very unusual for Oregon. September is normally one of the most beautiful months and it’s been stormy so far…even an EF-0 tornado touched down in SW Portland causing minor damage to a pumpkin farm.
My Sister and husband from UP, WA are at their time share in Seaside, OR so I’m heading there in the morning to stay for a couple of days. Thinking positive thoughts for sunshine. My husband is staying home with our dog Peanut and her cousin Mandi that we’re dog sitting.
Just realized it is 9/11, will never forget.
Take care, all
Enjoy your visit with your family, Jo! I hope you have some sunshine during your stay. Blackberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream….now you have me craving some! Safe travels! 😊
Yesterday and today have been gorgeous on the coast! It’s about time! Oh my- we arrived in Gold Beach 10 days ago, and the weather has been cool, damp, foggy, rainy, and generally crappy. It reached almost 80° yesterday! On Wednesday the 11th we had a jet boat trip up the rogue planned, and we lucked out- It was 75°. So yeah, 3 days out of 11 is pushing it for sunny weather, but we’ll take it right? Trying to milk the last out of Summer here in the NW before we shove off to Utah in October. I have some incredible sunset photos that I’ve taken, and it rather makes up for the less than perfect weather lately.
I hope Seaside has been just as lovely these past few days for you. 😎☀️
As I made a list of what groceries to buy I remembered a scene from an old episode of Little House on the Prairie. The family had just built a small cabin to live in, and didn’t have any way to get meat except by hunting for it. Charles was on his horse when a pack of hungry wolves started chasing him. He was able to escape because he dropped the rabbits he’d gotten so the wolves would be distracted as they ate those. Of course the show had a happy ending, that’s a large part of why I occasionally watch it. Besides, it always makes me grateful for a lot that it’s easy to take for granted.
How fortunate we are to live where it’s peaceful compared to other times and places. It was a hot and humid day here yesterday, and when my granddaughter mentioned it I was glad she could take a refreshing shower (after her classes were over for the day). I told her that the first home I lived in as a child didn’t have running water inside. My parents would fill pails of water from a pump in the yard, heat that on the stove and pour it into a metal tub for us to bathe in. She hadn’t known that, and said now she’d always be grateful for having running water wherever she was. It’s neat to see certain values pass on through the generations in a family…
So, blogorino family, is there anything special that you’re grateful for ? I hope you are all doing well and find something worth smiling about today.
Hi Weather! I’m grateful for good friends and living in a peaceful neighborhood. Many people in the world are not as fortunate.
Hi, Dawn, your neighborhood and friends are fortunate to have you there. You are nice enough to keep commenting here, you give others a reason to come back to check on blogorinoland. I’m guessing that’s a reflection of your real life, that you give as well as gratefully receive.
Hi Weather and Dawn, and others,
Gratefulness is a good thing to have. I also loved that series on TV as well as The Waltons…gave us many ideas on how one can survive what they think they cannot. We are in survival mode here on many fronts. One most unexpected event yesterday (and a lesser prayer answer) was while in Walmart of all places, I looked up to see our beloved lady dentist (best one we ever had in our lives) who had quit the dental office about 6 months ago. We had not known what to do (as when a medical person quits a place you will not be told WHERE they go next so we figured she had moved away). Turns out she took a break, and is going back to work next week, at a different office, on one of the roads we live on even (since our recent move). We had not known what we were going to do, as medical care here is the worst of any place we have ever lived…so at least our dental needs will once again be done well!!! YIPPEE!! We are grateful and hoping this trend will extend to other difficult places in our lives too!!
My grandma always used to say, “Be grateful for running water!”
Hi, Rose, I well understand her saying that. It’s amazing how many folks in this country got along without many conveniences in life.
My Grandma also used to say such…it just really boggles the mind how many changes came in her lifetime…from the horse and buggy to the man on the moon…she never got over all the changes they went through…and was always and forever grateful for the smallest of things.
Gosh, Elizabeth, I’m so glad you found your dentist again, that’s wonderful! I know from experience that having one you like and trust can be a real blessing. May this trend continue, I’m saying a prayer that it will, and sending a happy hug to you and yours 🙂
Thank you so much, Weather…here is another funny thing today. We were in another town in the major grocery store there and she and I ran into each other again!! She just as shocked as me. As I went on my way, I waved and said, “Looking forward to seeing you soon!!” Haha…she said she was also looking forward to that…haha…isn’t life funny?
The idea of looking forward to seeing a dentist made me laugh, thank you!
Glad you laughed…tis a good thing to laugh!! I know it seems odd…but it is such a relief to have ONE medical problem solved for the future!! Even a tooth one!!
I am grateful for much really, but mostly for my wonderful mom and dad, whom I miss greatly. I believe I owe my outlook on life to my incredible mother. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss her.
Thanks for asking Weather, as it gave me a chance to say this out loud. 💗
Aw-w, Suzi, I’m sorry that you miss your mother every day. I’m glad, though that she was special enough for you to describe her as incredible. How nice that you used a chance to say it 🙂
Your comment brought to mind a memory I hadn’t thought about for a long time. On one of our almost daily visits I noticed how cold it felt in my mother’s kitchen, and that she was wearing a knitted hat while inside. So I asked her why she didn’t bump the thermostat up a few degrees. Her answer was that it would waste money that other people needed, as she handed me an envelope to mail for her. It held a donation she was making to a charity… sacrificial giving was a normal part of life for her. What’s impressive to me about that is she wasn’t “playing the role of a martyr”, it just made her happy to share what she had.
❤️
It’s such a gift to have parents who love you and passed the best of themselves down to you. But….wow!…..does it make it hard to lose them. I feel the same way. There was never a day as long as they were on this earth that I didn’t know I was loved! And when I have an “off” day, I can still hear my mom saying….”If you live to be 100 and I am 124….you will STILL be my baby!” 🙂
And Weather, I know that your mother passed that giving heart down to her daughter because of the way in which you freely give of your compassion, empathy and help to “total strangers” on this blog.
Have a peaceful evening all!
MB, Bella and Molly
What a gracious and sweet note to me, thank you ever so much, MB, I really appreciate it.
Hey-Hey Sue and Reg and Rog!
Aloha from the Oregon Coast! You can see from a comment i made above, that the weather has been cool, and gloomy. Not the gorgeous Fall coastal weather it usually is in Gold Beach. We’ve been enjoying the beautiful sunsets from our living room, as we gaze out over the Pacific a few steps away. Not a bad gig! We water a few plants, and pick up the mail- do some dusting, and Larry cleans the front viewing windows. It’s a good trade. I’m finding though, I miss the Casita. In the Casita, everything is within arms reach, and you know where everything is. This house is too BIG! 😂😂
There you are in Arizona, and here we are on the Oregon Coast— miles and miles apart. Yet, I can pick up the iPad and tune in to your life, and the lives of all your other friends, with just a few key strokes. Isn’t it amazing? Here comes another orangey and purpley-pink sky over the ocean Sue. Can you see it? Smell it? Hear it? I hope so. I’m thinking I’d love for us to take a walk on the beach with the boys tomorrow, then have coffee on the deck. You don’t have to call first, just show up if you’d like.
Aloha my friend, Suzi
Hi Suzi! Thanks for catching us up on your adventures. I always love hearing about them. Sorry the weather isn’t optimal. I hope you enjoy your house sitting gig while it lasts.
Hi Everyone. I was away for a few days. I had to help my father over the weekend with some out of town chores. It was just him and me. It could have been dicey, as he is easily peeved. However, it went as well as could be expected. I was in the Blue Ridge mountains of NC. I had some really nice positives come out of the weekend. I had a beautiful view where I was staying; I saw a doe eating apples under a tree; I got to see a rainbow that was only there for the briefest of time; and I got to see a massive gathering of dragonflies, of all things. I am profoundly grateful for those gifts to me from this weekend.
Weather, I want to thank you for your thoughtful comments to me and other Blogorinos. You greatly enrich and bring to life the comments. I love the story you told of your mother being cold in her house just so she could give more to someone in need. I need to emulate that more.
Hi Dawn! So glad things went smoothly for you and your dad. And wow!….Mother Nature at her best too! I love dragonflies!….and deer…..and rainbows! 🙂
Have a nice evening,
MB, Bella and Molly
Hi MB! Can I ask if you’ve made any decisions yet regarding your travels and your uncle? I hope whatever happens works out in your favor.
Thank you Dawn! I have decided that I will not bring it up anymore unless it’s to say, “Hey everyone! I’m in New Mexico!”. Thank you so much for your support and empathy! It means a lot “neighbor”!
Your appreciating the doe, rainbow, dragonflies, and my comments, and helping your at times peevish father do chores reminds me of a bookmark I have, Dawn. It says “Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”
My father and I did many things that made our love for each other obvious. There were, though, times when we each considered the other one peevish…
Soon after one of those he was in a hospital overnight for medical tests. When I stopped by to visit him there I noticed he hadn’t shaved or combed his hair yet, so I did that for him. He, and I, felt better in more than one way for a while because of that. Neither of us knew then that would be our last couple of hours together with no one else around. He passed away shortly afterward.
Being kind and helpful may not always be fun or comfortable, yet in my experience, it’s allowed me to not regret missing a chance to be that way. I’m glad you went to the mountains with your father, and glad you came back here to visit us again, too 🙂
Hi Everyone. I’m catching up with the blog after being crazy busy for a couple of weeks.
The stories and sentiments posted recently have been such a pleasure and encouragement to read, so keep it up, everyone, even though some of us appear to be among the missing!
I have nothing much to report in, except to say we are enjoying a glorious September here in Upstate NY. Picture perfect days and cool evenings. Can you ask for more?
Love to all of you.