Ruth died this morning around 4am in Tallahassee Memorial Hospital as a result of injuries suffered in the accident on the Saturday morning of the Watermelon Festival in Monticello. She was 84.
She will be missed by many people.
Her daughter, Susan Simmons is still hospitalized in TMH. She is recovering from 2 surgeries to repair 7 breaks in her pelvis. Yesterday they were able to get Susan into a wheelchair and take her to visit her mother for the first (and last) time.
This is all very tragic.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Ice cream and spiders and turkeys, oh my!
Well, I'm in the process of trying to shed one habit and replace it with another! Still am not smoking, but have eaten an entire pint of Breyers ice cream in 2 days! Finished it off this morning for breakfast!...and just spent almost an hour searching the web for ice cream coupons! Gotta watch this!
I'm having trouble going into the kitchen for coffee. There is a very large wolf spider lurking behind the coffee pot. Whenever I lift the pot he jumps out...he's a good 2 inches long and very intimidating. Not sure what I'm gonna do...don't want to kill him and don't want him in the kitchen/house! Help!
Yesterday I was standing at the kitchen sink (no, I wasn't eating!) just looking out the window and daydreaming. Must have been standing there for several minutes when I thought, "what in the world is that big stump doing inside the fence?"...then I came to and realized that it couldn't be a stump 'cause first you have to have a tree! So I went out the French doors to the stoop and as I did, the stump turned around, spread it's wings and took a running lift off toward the fence. He cleared the fence, but just barely! His wing span was very large, at least 5 feet, maybe more. He was a wild TURKEY! In my fenced area! And it's not even Thanksgiving! I watched him go through the wooded hedge between my yard and the neighbor's yard and I could see him through the trees for a while. He flew off headed north...there's a pond about a block away, guess he was headed there. Now isn't that something!
We've gone 2 days with the temperature under 100 degrees! It's amazing how much cooler 94 feels after a couple of days of 104+ (and 7 straight days of over 100)! I'm still needing rain. Haven't had a drop in about a week. There has been rain in the area for the past couple of days, sure wish it would come here!
The hay-bale garden is suffering. The herbs don't look like they'll make it, nor do the yellow squash...zucchini looks okay and the tomatoes are hanging in there. Need rain.
I'm having trouble going into the kitchen for coffee. There is a very large wolf spider lurking behind the coffee pot. Whenever I lift the pot he jumps out...he's a good 2 inches long and very intimidating. Not sure what I'm gonna do...don't want to kill him and don't want him in the kitchen/house! Help!
Yesterday I was standing at the kitchen sink (no, I wasn't eating!) just looking out the window and daydreaming. Must have been standing there for several minutes when I thought, "what in the world is that big stump doing inside the fence?"...then I came to and realized that it couldn't be a stump 'cause first you have to have a tree! So I went out the French doors to the stoop and as I did, the stump turned around, spread it's wings and took a running lift off toward the fence. He cleared the fence, but just barely! His wing span was very large, at least 5 feet, maybe more. He was a wild TURKEY! In my fenced area! And it's not even Thanksgiving! I watched him go through the wooded hedge between my yard and the neighbor's yard and I could see him through the trees for a while. He flew off headed north...there's a pond about a block away, guess he was headed there. Now isn't that something!
We've gone 2 days with the temperature under 100 degrees! It's amazing how much cooler 94 feels after a couple of days of 104+ (and 7 straight days of over 100)! I'm still needing rain. Haven't had a drop in about a week. There has been rain in the area for the past couple of days, sure wish it would come here!
The hay-bale garden is suffering. The herbs don't look like they'll make it, nor do the yellow squash...zucchini looks okay and the tomatoes are hanging in there. Need rain.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
We're out of the woods!
Yesterday we didn't hit 100 degrees (we hit 99!) for the first time in 8 days! I know it sounds weird, but the high 90s were okay! Today "they" are predicting low to mid 90s! Should be right balmy!!! However, we are awfully dry...sure do need rain!
Well, I have 4 friends in TMH. Step-brother-in-law, Mark: heart attack, in ICU; Ruth: accident, very broken up and in ICU; Susan: Ruth's daughter: broken pelvic, surgery today; Mary: friend, broken hip! Gracious, you just never know! Do you think the weather did it?
Still find myself reaching for a cigarette...not smoking...wanting. Didn't realize there would be such awful physical symptoms: headache, stomach churning, various aches and pains, cravings (not just for cigarettes, but foods, too!), antsy, shaky and quite irritable. I can just see myself ballooning up to a million pounds, of course, that's not a very good reason to smoke, but if I'm not careful I'm sure I could use that as a reason to talk myself into having that occasional smoke...and you know what would happen then! I wonder how long it'll take to get the smoke from my lungs...I can still smell smoke on my breath.
They mowed my yard yesterday. The grass and weeds were so high that they left huge piles of cut grass piled up against the fence and everything else that it could pile against. I'll try to get out there early tomorrow and rake it up...it looks horrible now.
One of the nursery sons got back yesterday from a 10 day tour of the orient...China, Viet Nam, etc. I heard him talking to some of the guys about how much Americans are hated in Viet Nam and how one of the folks in his party was spat on! I didn't know this! Sad.
TGIW!!!!
Well, I have 4 friends in TMH. Step-brother-in-law, Mark: heart attack, in ICU; Ruth: accident, very broken up and in ICU; Susan: Ruth's daughter: broken pelvic, surgery today; Mary: friend, broken hip! Gracious, you just never know! Do you think the weather did it?
Still find myself reaching for a cigarette...not smoking...wanting. Didn't realize there would be such awful physical symptoms: headache, stomach churning, various aches and pains, cravings (not just for cigarettes, but foods, too!), antsy, shaky and quite irritable. I can just see myself ballooning up to a million pounds, of course, that's not a very good reason to smoke, but if I'm not careful I'm sure I could use that as a reason to talk myself into having that occasional smoke...and you know what would happen then! I wonder how long it'll take to get the smoke from my lungs...I can still smell smoke on my breath.
They mowed my yard yesterday. The grass and weeds were so high that they left huge piles of cut grass piled up against the fence and everything else that it could pile against. I'll try to get out there early tomorrow and rake it up...it looks horrible now.
One of the nursery sons got back yesterday from a 10 day tour of the orient...China, Viet Nam, etc. I heard him talking to some of the guys about how much Americans are hated in Viet Nam and how one of the folks in his party was spat on! I didn't know this! Sad.
TGIW!!!!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
To smoke or not to smoke, that is the question~
Okay, I'm working on 48 hrs. of not smoking. I've gathered up the ashtrays and have put them in the dishwasher. I'm not saying I've quit, just that at the moment I'm not smoking.
My sister came over early Saturday and we went to the Watermelon Festival Breakfast. As usual, it was very good. Bennett didn't join us...got an e-mail from her saying it was too damn hot! She was right, it WAS too damn hot! Ann was serving (she works for the bank and was named employee of the year for 2008!) food, but we got hugged anyway!
After breakfast sister and I went to Norma's house and we each picked lots of blueberries. Then we came back to my house and sat on the front porch, drank coffee, fanned and watched traffic. It was a nice day.
Then at 3pm a young fellow came over to give me an estimate on doing some insurance things on the exterior of the house. We had to change insurance companies and this new one wants railings on stairs (3 sets) and a piece of roofing trim put back up before they'll insure the house.
Just finished breakfast and reached for my pack of cigarettes which isn't there!
On Saturday right after the parade there was a terrible wreck in town. My old (84) friend Ruth and her daughter were parked in the SUV when an 18 yr old sped through town 60+mph, rear ended an ambulance, then hit Ruth's SUV, flipped it and spun it around. Ruth was ejected and her daughter who had gotten out and gone around to help Ruth into her wheelchair was terribly injured. The daughter had a broken pelvis...word has it that it's broken in 7-8 places. I'm not sure what Ruth's injuries are, but rumor has it that she may come home today. You just never know, you know?
My sister came over early Saturday and we went to the Watermelon Festival Breakfast. As usual, it was very good. Bennett didn't join us...got an e-mail from her saying it was too damn hot! She was right, it WAS too damn hot! Ann was serving (she works for the bank and was named employee of the year for 2008!) food, but we got hugged anyway!
After breakfast sister and I went to Norma's house and we each picked lots of blueberries. Then we came back to my house and sat on the front porch, drank coffee, fanned and watched traffic. It was a nice day.
Then at 3pm a young fellow came over to give me an estimate on doing some insurance things on the exterior of the house. We had to change insurance companies and this new one wants railings on stairs (3 sets) and a piece of roofing trim put back up before they'll insure the house.
Just finished breakfast and reached for my pack of cigarettes which isn't there!
On Saturday right after the parade there was a terrible wreck in town. My old (84) friend Ruth and her daughter were parked in the SUV when an 18 yr old sped through town 60+mph, rear ended an ambulance, then hit Ruth's SUV, flipped it and spun it around. Ruth was ejected and her daughter who had gotten out and gone around to help Ruth into her wheelchair was terribly injured. The daughter had a broken pelvis...word has it that it's broken in 7-8 places. I'm not sure what Ruth's injuries are, but rumor has it that she may come home today. You just never know, you know?
Friday, June 19, 2009
Hot, hot, hot!!!
Well, today is the day of our party at work. It will be outside...250+ people and it's HOT! This is our 4th day of temps in the 100s! I'm dressing cool, shorts and a loose top and flip flops (platform ones!), but I'm thinking that this may not help. We do have giant old oak trees that we'll set up under, so that may make it bearable. Here's hoping so! I really need to think about doing my hair and face as it's 11am now and the party starts at 12!
I just made a wonderful discovery! The swiffer pads that you dust furniture with do a much better job on pet hair and dust on floors than the flat floor pads! I may be on to something here!
Norma called last night and invited me over to pick more blueberries (I am starting to run out), but I told her I'd have to wait until the weather down shifts a bit...the berries may be out of season then!
Talked with RM for a couple of hours last night. Can you believe she turned 44 yesterday? Wow! Where does time go?
I googled "girl scout camp songs" a while ago. Bunches of sites came up. I didn't know some of the songs, after all, it's been almost 50 years since I went to Camp Juliette Low, but some of the old standbys were there. Brought back some wonderful memories!
Tomorrow morning is the Watermelon Festival breakfast at the bank. I get hungry just thinking about it. Funny how much I look forward to it! My life is rather bland, of course that is by choice, but something different on occasion is nice! Both my sister and my high school friend, Betty will be there and Norma said she may go also. Sounds like a party to me!
The only thing I've noticed that's loving this weather is my yard. We've had just enough rain (about every 3 days) and the heat seems to be greenhousing the grass, shrubs and weeds. It's all growing like wild! And, the daylilies I put out earlier this spring have begun blooming...so far, it's only one or two here and there, but I'm hoping that by next year they'll get their acts together and really give me a show! The ones that have bloomed are quite different and awfully pretty! Sure am enjoying them!
Say a prayer for daughter #2...they didn't get all of the cancer on her eyelid and she facing some rather invasive surgery this next week that may involve skin grafts and sewing the eye shut for the summer.
Also, my step brother-in-law isn't doing too well. He had a heart attack Sunday and now is fighting pneumonia. He's in intensive care at TMH. He's too young for all this, just a couple of years older than I am.
And, that's the way the world turns.
I just made a wonderful discovery! The swiffer pads that you dust furniture with do a much better job on pet hair and dust on floors than the flat floor pads! I may be on to something here!
Norma called last night and invited me over to pick more blueberries (I am starting to run out), but I told her I'd have to wait until the weather down shifts a bit...the berries may be out of season then!
Talked with RM for a couple of hours last night. Can you believe she turned 44 yesterday? Wow! Where does time go?
I googled "girl scout camp songs" a while ago. Bunches of sites came up. I didn't know some of the songs, after all, it's been almost 50 years since I went to Camp Juliette Low, but some of the old standbys were there. Brought back some wonderful memories!
Tomorrow morning is the Watermelon Festival breakfast at the bank. I get hungry just thinking about it. Funny how much I look forward to it! My life is rather bland, of course that is by choice, but something different on occasion is nice! Both my sister and my high school friend, Betty will be there and Norma said she may go also. Sounds like a party to me!
The only thing I've noticed that's loving this weather is my yard. We've had just enough rain (about every 3 days) and the heat seems to be greenhousing the grass, shrubs and weeds. It's all growing like wild! And, the daylilies I put out earlier this spring have begun blooming...so far, it's only one or two here and there, but I'm hoping that by next year they'll get their acts together and really give me a show! The ones that have bloomed are quite different and awfully pretty! Sure am enjoying them!
Say a prayer for daughter #2...they didn't get all of the cancer on her eyelid and she facing some rather invasive surgery this next week that may involve skin grafts and sewing the eye shut for the summer.
Also, my step brother-in-law isn't doing too well. He had a heart attack Sunday and now is fighting pneumonia. He's in intensive care at TMH. He's too young for all this, just a couple of years older than I am.
And, that's the way the world turns.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
We're having a party!
This coming Friday is our big party at work. I was charged with getting the caterer and feel fortunate that I was able to get the Seinyard!!! We'll have the "works", fried fish, shrimp, oysters and chicken fingers with cheese grits, slaw and hush puppies! Yum! Sure am looking forward to the food!
Just found out last night that this weekend is the annual Watermelon Festival here in Monticello. It's been going on longer than I can remember (and that's a while!). Need to check with my sister and see if she wants to do the breakfast, we have for the past 2 years and it's great fun.
It was raining when I got ready to leave for work yesterday, so I left the dogs in the house. My bad. One arm of the sofa is almost empty of stuffing. Damn that Jazzy. Today, no matter what the weather is doing, she's OUTSIDE!
Got a letter from the new insurance company that we got to insure the house. It seems I have to have hand rail put on the back steps and a piece of trim that came down 4 years ago put back up. Now this little house is about 80 years old and hasn't had hand railings. Why now? Finding a handyman to do these simple things has turned out to be quite a chore. My sister called friends of hers here in town and they recommended a fellow that had done some work for a family member. I called him and he's not doing any side work now...is working full time for the bank. I'm going to call a couple of folks today and ask at work. Hate this sort of stuff!
Was sitting here at the computer this past weekend and the back of my chair broke. A cheap plastic piece worried through a bolt and it and a heavy spring fell off. Don't know how to fix it.
I'm worried that something's up with my sister...she's quiet.
Just found out last night that this weekend is the annual Watermelon Festival here in Monticello. It's been going on longer than I can remember (and that's a while!). Need to check with my sister and see if she wants to do the breakfast, we have for the past 2 years and it's great fun.
It was raining when I got ready to leave for work yesterday, so I left the dogs in the house. My bad. One arm of the sofa is almost empty of stuffing. Damn that Jazzy. Today, no matter what the weather is doing, she's OUTSIDE!
Got a letter from the new insurance company that we got to insure the house. It seems I have to have hand rail put on the back steps and a piece of trim that came down 4 years ago put back up. Now this little house is about 80 years old and hasn't had hand railings. Why now? Finding a handyman to do these simple things has turned out to be quite a chore. My sister called friends of hers here in town and they recommended a fellow that had done some work for a family member. I called him and he's not doing any side work now...is working full time for the bank. I'm going to call a couple of folks today and ask at work. Hate this sort of stuff!
Was sitting here at the computer this past weekend and the back of my chair broke. A cheap plastic piece worried through a bolt and it and a heavy spring fell off. Don't know how to fix it.
I'm worried that something's up with my sister...she's quiet.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Happenings
Dinner Wednesday night at Leah Jane's was very nice. There were 6 of us and the food and conversation flowed. Was only gone a couple of hours, but had 3 new holes in the sofa when I got home. Damn dog...
Our temperature has been flirting with 100 degrees for the past week. "They" say that today it may not only hit 100, but pass it....ouch!
Yesterday I went to Norma's house about 9:30am. We picked blueberries for about 20 minutes. The temperature was already in the high 80s and the humidity was 98 percent. 20 minutes of picking in the shade was about all either of us could handle. Even so, I picked 1 1/2 quarts of some of the prettiest blueberries I've seen in a while. The bushes are still loaded and Norma invited me to come back and pick more soon. I'm going to freeze the majority, but have been thinking about dehydrating some to see how that'll work. I'm also contemplating refrigerator jam.
I had lunch at Sage with my friend Betty (Bennett as she's called now) from high school. We outlasted everyone there. Did a lot of catching up, after all, high school was 46 years ago! It's so funny how differently life happens to everyone. I also find it interesting that memories of basically the same thing can be so different! The brain is a strange and miraculous thing!
I'm torn today between 2 projects. I need to sew up the holes in the sofa and I want to start beading. Both projects require using these arthritic old hands and I know they won't last through both projects and either one of them will leave me mighty sore tomorrow. Of course, I could just vegetate on the computer and do nothing! We'll see.
Our temperature has been flirting with 100 degrees for the past week. "They" say that today it may not only hit 100, but pass it....ouch!
Yesterday I went to Norma's house about 9:30am. We picked blueberries for about 20 minutes. The temperature was already in the high 80s and the humidity was 98 percent. 20 minutes of picking in the shade was about all either of us could handle. Even so, I picked 1 1/2 quarts of some of the prettiest blueberries I've seen in a while. The bushes are still loaded and Norma invited me to come back and pick more soon. I'm going to freeze the majority, but have been thinking about dehydrating some to see how that'll work. I'm also contemplating refrigerator jam.
I had lunch at Sage with my friend Betty (Bennett as she's called now) from high school. We outlasted everyone there. Did a lot of catching up, after all, high school was 46 years ago! It's so funny how differently life happens to everyone. I also find it interesting that memories of basically the same thing can be so different! The brain is a strange and miraculous thing!
I'm torn today between 2 projects. I need to sew up the holes in the sofa and I want to start beading. Both projects require using these arthritic old hands and I know they won't last through both projects and either one of them will leave me mighty sore tomorrow. Of course, I could just vegetate on the computer and do nothing! We'll see.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
El Nino
Just read an article that said "El Nino is Back"...Not sure just what the impact will be for everyone, but the article said stormier in the deep south and a warmer winter with storms. Drat.
We are very hot and dry now. High 90s during the day and 70s at night. They were just joking about triple digit temps being just around the corner on tv. I don't find that very amusing. I've been keeping the thermostat on 80 during the day, but I do turn in down when I go to bed. The last electric bill was up $20. This next one will be worse.
Yesterday was the meeting at the nursing home. I left here at 8:30 even though the meeting wasn't scheduled until 9:45. I read in the paper Sunday that there would be one land traffic in spots on US 90 and to expect delays. Wouldn't you know it, I got there in 30 minutes! I don't think I've ever made it that quickly...nope, I didn't speed, well, just a little. The meeting was uneventful, except that they told us they had taken Mother off the anti-psychotic drug she's been on for about a year...some kind of regulation that requires they reduce or remove. I hope she behaves! Both Bert and my sister were also there. Bless his heart, Bert is sure beginning to show his 91 1/2 years! He focuses on minutia and trivia. The staff is very patient with him.
When I got home the propane folks had already filled the tank and hung a bill on the back door. I delayed opening it for an hour or so...was afraid. It wasn't so bad, about $158.00, so I wrote a check and put it in the mailbox. I didn't grocery shop in Tallahassee yesterday because I was worrying about how much that bill would be. It's just as well.
When I got in to work on Monday there was a note on my desk from HWB (former boss) saying to call him that he needed to see me. So I did, asked him what was going on, but he wouldn't say on the phone, wants to talk to me in person. So, I'm going to go see him after work today. Haven't the foggiest idea what's up.
Leah Jane's having a little dinner party tonight and tomorrow I'm going to Norma's to pick blue berries.
Last Thursday I decided to use a hair color that we found in Mother's bathroom when we cleaned out the vanity and linen closet. Well, I guess they expire or something. When I began applying it to my hair the plastic bottle burst wide open splattering hair gunk everywhere. Of course I used what was usable and finished doing my hair. I now have hair the color of Goodness the cat and Jazzy the dog...looks good on them (see photo at top). My sister said yesterday that it's not awful. I'll wear it for a while and then do something else.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Return of the rain
Well, rain's back in our daily forecast...yesterday was day 4 of rain...not just a sprinkle, but major downpours! Each day I dumped more than an inch of rain out of the rain gauge...Friday more than 2 inches!
The hay bale garden is looking pitiful. The rain's leaching everything nutrient-wise out. The squash looks like it may not make it at all...all of the leaves are yellow. I'm thinking of trying a slow release fertilizer. Will go to the garden center tomorrow.
Friday SE Propane called to say they are running a special on propane, $2.90 a gal. The last time I had the tank filled was a year ago this past February and I paid $4.30 a gal. So, even though I didn't run the furnace once this past winter I told them to fill the tank. They'll do it on Tuesday. It doesn't evaporate and if I can afford to have the system checked out I may use it this coming winter...just on a really need to basis.
I guess I'll hold off on Jazzy's makeover since this month propane trumps dog!
I'm gradually getting the house in order. With all of the rainy days it's hard to work outside so the house is reaping the rewards! Yesterday in the midst of the downpour I backed the car in and out of the carport a bunch of times and then squeegeed all of the windows and lights. It looks much better. Next time I may throw a little soap on the body and see how that does. I try not to use tap water for anything other than necessities.
Hurricane season is here. Prepare folks, prepare!
The hay bale garden is looking pitiful. The rain's leaching everything nutrient-wise out. The squash looks like it may not make it at all...all of the leaves are yellow. I'm thinking of trying a slow release fertilizer. Will go to the garden center tomorrow.
Friday SE Propane called to say they are running a special on propane, $2.90 a gal. The last time I had the tank filled was a year ago this past February and I paid $4.30 a gal. So, even though I didn't run the furnace once this past winter I told them to fill the tank. They'll do it on Tuesday. It doesn't evaporate and if I can afford to have the system checked out I may use it this coming winter...just on a really need to basis.
I guess I'll hold off on Jazzy's makeover since this month propane trumps dog!
I'm gradually getting the house in order. With all of the rainy days it's hard to work outside so the house is reaping the rewards! Yesterday in the midst of the downpour I backed the car in and out of the carport a bunch of times and then squeegeed all of the windows and lights. It looks much better. Next time I may throw a little soap on the body and see how that does. I try not to use tap water for anything other than necessities.
Hurricane season is here. Prepare folks, prepare!
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
TGIW!! again
It's absolutely amazing to me how long it is from Monday to Wednesday and how short it is from Thursday to Sunday! When Tuesday finally rolls around (my "hump" day) I'm exhausted. Sounds weird, I know, but it's true. When I'm at work I go full steam from the moment I walk in until I leave. That's one reason I'm able to work Monday - Wednesday...I get everything done that would normally take a 5-day work week. It's good for me, but generally Thursday is a wasted day. I do the bare minimum around here and rest up. Then I go full tilt for the remainder of the weekend. What a way to live.
Sunday night at Ann's house was nice. It was so good seeing Kay after 46+ years!
Am thinking about having Jazzy sheared...she could use a make over!
No particular news.
Sunday night at Ann's house was nice. It was so good seeing Kay after 46+ years!
Am thinking about having Jazzy sheared...she could use a make over!
No particular news.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Sunshine!!!
The sun was out all day yesterday! Now, I'm not much of a sun person, but this was a welcomed event! Of course it was hot and quite muggy, but this dark side of the moon person loved every moment of it! The same weather is forecast for the next 3-4 days and then rain gradually slips back into the picture. Now, if I had my druthers, I'd request a good soaking every 3 days with sun in between. I have requested that numerous times, just evidently not getting the right ear.
Met with my sister around 7:30 yesterday morning. We went to our usual restaurant for breakfast. We both had turkey and avocado sandwiches that were to die for! They were so big that each of us took a half home!
After breakfast we went to see Mother. She was still in bed with a breakfast tray that was totally untouched and getting cold. With a little urging from us she ate quite a bit! So much so that the aide that came and took her tray commented on it! Since Mother wasn't up or dressed there wasn't much we could do with her, so we sang every song we could think of standing by her bed! When her roommate came in we got a little self conscious, but she urged us to continue, so we did. We ended up spending about an hour and a half singing. Everyone enjoyed it, but I think my sister and I enjoyed it the most! We'll have to come up with a few more songs for next time!
When we left I did my monthly main grocery shopping and got home around noon. Not bad.
Around 7 last night I was sitting on the front porch and the very old dog that lives across the road actually crossed the road and walked down my driveway a little bit and looked at me. We've never met, but always make eye contact and he watches me when I drive out. This was the first time I've seen him cross the road and it felt important. So, I dashed into the kitchen and got a bowl of water and a soft treat (don't know what shape his teeth are in), but by the time I got back out he was on his side of the road. He saw me come out and stopped and waited while I crossed over to him. I sat on the ground and gave him the treat which he really enjoyed. Then he let me rub his head. I wanted to rub his hips as they really seem to hurt him (he has to squat to pee and walks really, really slow), but he didn't want me to. The fur on his back is so dirty and sticky and almost matted and he smells really bad...I guess that's why they never seem to let him in the house anymore. When he finished our visit he drank quite a bit of water and continued his nightly stroll down the way. I'm not sure where he goes, but he does it every night.
Tonight I'm going to my friend Ann's house for hamburgers. Her sister is here for a visit. I haven't seen Kay for over 45 years and am surely looking forward to it!
Met with my sister around 7:30 yesterday morning. We went to our usual restaurant for breakfast. We both had turkey and avocado sandwiches that were to die for! They were so big that each of us took a half home!
After breakfast we went to see Mother. She was still in bed with a breakfast tray that was totally untouched and getting cold. With a little urging from us she ate quite a bit! So much so that the aide that came and took her tray commented on it! Since Mother wasn't up or dressed there wasn't much we could do with her, so we sang every song we could think of standing by her bed! When her roommate came in we got a little self conscious, but she urged us to continue, so we did. We ended up spending about an hour and a half singing. Everyone enjoyed it, but I think my sister and I enjoyed it the most! We'll have to come up with a few more songs for next time!
When we left I did my monthly main grocery shopping and got home around noon. Not bad.
Around 7 last night I was sitting on the front porch and the very old dog that lives across the road actually crossed the road and walked down my driveway a little bit and looked at me. We've never met, but always make eye contact and he watches me when I drive out. This was the first time I've seen him cross the road and it felt important. So, I dashed into the kitchen and got a bowl of water and a soft treat (don't know what shape his teeth are in), but by the time I got back out he was on his side of the road. He saw me come out and stopped and waited while I crossed over to him. I sat on the ground and gave him the treat which he really enjoyed. Then he let me rub his head. I wanted to rub his hips as they really seem to hurt him (he has to squat to pee and walks really, really slow), but he didn't want me to. The fur on his back is so dirty and sticky and almost matted and he smells really bad...I guess that's why they never seem to let him in the house anymore. When he finished our visit he drank quite a bit of water and continued his nightly stroll down the way. I'm not sure where he goes, but he does it every night.
Tonight I'm going to my friend Ann's house for hamburgers. Her sister is here for a visit. I haven't seen Kay for over 45 years and am surely looking forward to it!
Friday, May 29, 2009
and, yet more rain....
Today is our 16th day in a row of rain. Yesterday we had intermittent spots of sunshine and we had a little bit earlier this morning...just enough to get my hopes up. At first I was thrilled to be getting so much rain, but as it continued day in and day out my attitude underwent daily changes, mostly downhill! The soft plants aren't so happy either. The tomatoes and mint are especially unhappy...who woulda thunk it? They are sparse and leggy and borderline fungusy.
No particular news today. My sister and I are meeting for breakfast tomorrow and then planning to go see Mother. It's so much more pleasant seeing her with the two of us...I guess it gives us a buffer or something.
Work is slow. Hope it'll pick up soon. I get sooooo bored!
The weatherman says that tomorrow and Sunday will be hot and sunny! We'll see!
No particular news today. My sister and I are meeting for breakfast tomorrow and then planning to go see Mother. It's so much more pleasant seeing her with the two of us...I guess it gives us a buffer or something.
Work is slow. Hope it'll pick up soon. I get sooooo bored!
The weatherman says that tomorrow and Sunday will be hot and sunny! We'll see!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Rain.....
Today is our 10th day in a row of rain! The first few were so welcomed! Now it's getting to be a bit much! The poor dogs hold their bodily functions until they are about to burst and then dash outside and pee and poop in the rain for what seem like an eternity! They are so totally over the rain!
Yesterday one of the ladies from Garden Club had an open house. She has a rather large farm south of town and hybridises daylilies. The open house was from 10 to 3. I really debated about going in the rainy weather, but I thought I saw a patch of blue around noon, so I went. Her farm is really off the beaten path, down a one lane clay road forever! I was so glad I went. When I got there I asked her how the turn-out had been and she said I was the first. Even with the weather the rows and rows and rows of daylilies were breath-taking!
I got home in time for the bottom to drop out once more!
Thursday I roasted a chicken and made potato salad. Yesterday I made chicken soup and turtle walnut chocolate chip brownies. For breakfast I ate a brownie with my coffee. I've got a hankering to cook something now, but I'm forcing myself to wait until I at least finish the chicken, the meatloaf (and mashed potatoes) from Tuesday and the chicken soup. I figure I don't have to finish the brownies before cooking something else! I've always liked to cook, but I'm thinking this compulsion is being driven by the weather!
Didn't do dinner with the ladies last night. Was a chicken and just didn't answer the calls from Ruth. It's so hard to tell her no. Last week after telling her no she called again at the last minute and begged me to go. Said no. Then she wanted me to go as her guest. Said no. Then she offered to lend me money. Said no. This is all very hard.
The meeting with staff at the nursing home has been changed from this coming Tuesday to (I think) June 9th. They called my sister Friday and said they hadn't realized that Monday was Memorial Day when the first appointment was set and that some of the staff wouldn't be there. That's okay with me.
We work Memorial Day. Our leader says that's a "Yankee holiday"!
It's still quite early in the day and very muggy! and raining!
Yesterday one of the ladies from Garden Club had an open house. She has a rather large farm south of town and hybridises daylilies. The open house was from 10 to 3. I really debated about going in the rainy weather, but I thought I saw a patch of blue around noon, so I went. Her farm is really off the beaten path, down a one lane clay road forever! I was so glad I went. When I got there I asked her how the turn-out had been and she said I was the first. Even with the weather the rows and rows and rows of daylilies were breath-taking!
I got home in time for the bottom to drop out once more!
Thursday I roasted a chicken and made potato salad. Yesterday I made chicken soup and turtle walnut chocolate chip brownies. For breakfast I ate a brownie with my coffee. I've got a hankering to cook something now, but I'm forcing myself to wait until I at least finish the chicken, the meatloaf (and mashed potatoes) from Tuesday and the chicken soup. I figure I don't have to finish the brownies before cooking something else! I've always liked to cook, but I'm thinking this compulsion is being driven by the weather!
Didn't do dinner with the ladies last night. Was a chicken and just didn't answer the calls from Ruth. It's so hard to tell her no. Last week after telling her no she called again at the last minute and begged me to go. Said no. Then she wanted me to go as her guest. Said no. Then she offered to lend me money. Said no. This is all very hard.
The meeting with staff at the nursing home has been changed from this coming Tuesday to (I think) June 9th. They called my sister Friday and said they hadn't realized that Monday was Memorial Day when the first appointment was set and that some of the staff wouldn't be there. That's okay with me.
We work Memorial Day. Our leader says that's a "Yankee holiday"!
It's still quite early in the day and very muggy! and raining!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Perfect egg
This morning I cooked the world's most perfect poached egg! The other day Alton Brown (Good Eats) did a show on eggs. He's so good! I really sat up and took notice when he got to the poached egg part. That is probably my favorite way to have an egg and I've never been satisfied with the way mine turn out. His secret is to swirl the water and gently place the egg in the swirling water. That tightens the white up. The result is just wonderful. This morning I had mine on a buttered slice of 15 grain toast and topped it with a little finely shredded sharp cheddar and some cayenne pepper. Talk about good!
We have had three days in a row of made to order weather! Clear, sunny and hot in the mornings and major rain in the afternoons! I haven't heard about our rain deficit situation, but I'm willing to bet it's much better!
The hay bales are coming along nicely. The squash seeds are the only ones germinating yet, but I'm hopeful for the rest. Just in case they don't make it, yesterday I put out (in the bales) 2 tomato plants, 2 pepper plants (1 bell and 1 jalapeno), 1 Japanese eggplant, 3 clumps of flat leaf parsley and 1 mint plant. Then I went a bit nuts and seeded lots of herbs in the raised bed in the fenced area and zinnias, sunflowers and marigolds in the new bed that Jazzy and I dug right off the patio. If everything comes up it will be unreal! It's quite a large bed and it's the one I've planted crape myrtles and daylilies in. I put out 5 3cu.ft. bags of cypress mulch, but it looks like I need about ten more to really cover it. Then I really need to weed and mulch the front beds, they are getting away from me and they show! No one sees the back except for me.
A week from this coming Tuesday we have a meeting at the nursing home about Mother. It will be interesting to hear what they have to say. My sister and I think she's slowly going down hill, but Bert thinks she's okay. So to have a professional perspective will be good.
More rain is in the forecast for this afternoon and then both Monday and Tuesday it's supposed to rain 'most all day! How good is that?!
We have had three days in a row of made to order weather! Clear, sunny and hot in the mornings and major rain in the afternoons! I haven't heard about our rain deficit situation, but I'm willing to bet it's much better!
The hay bales are coming along nicely. The squash seeds are the only ones germinating yet, but I'm hopeful for the rest. Just in case they don't make it, yesterday I put out (in the bales) 2 tomato plants, 2 pepper plants (1 bell and 1 jalapeno), 1 Japanese eggplant, 3 clumps of flat leaf parsley and 1 mint plant. Then I went a bit nuts and seeded lots of herbs in the raised bed in the fenced area and zinnias, sunflowers and marigolds in the new bed that Jazzy and I dug right off the patio. If everything comes up it will be unreal! It's quite a large bed and it's the one I've planted crape myrtles and daylilies in. I put out 5 3cu.ft. bags of cypress mulch, but it looks like I need about ten more to really cover it. Then I really need to weed and mulch the front beds, they are getting away from me and they show! No one sees the back except for me.
A week from this coming Tuesday we have a meeting at the nursing home about Mother. It will be interesting to hear what they have to say. My sister and I think she's slowly going down hill, but Bert thinks she's okay. So to have a professional perspective will be good.
More rain is in the forecast for this afternoon and then both Monday and Tuesday it's supposed to rain 'most all day! How good is that?!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Rain, rain, rain!
We've had rain! Thank goodness!
Yesterday I came home from Garden Club with two crepe myrtles and an angle trumpet. As it was mighty hot and dry I just put them in the shade and took a nap. We had such an incredible luncheon. There were a gazillion salads, several different deviled eggs and desserts to die for! I tried my best to have some of each and when I finally got home a nap was my only option!
Around 4 o'clock I decided to go ahead and do my plantings. Got the 3 shrubs planted and 5 bags of cypress mulch spread out along with some weeding and then it started raining!!! Not just a sprinkle, but a downpour that lasted for about 40 minutes. Then it settled down and did a really nice rain all night! How perfect is that? The temperature dropped from 90 to the mid 70's and it actually felt cold! I turned the air conditioner off and opened both the front and back doors and watched Survivor with a lap robe, a dog and a couple of cats on me! More rain is in the forecast for the next few days!
The hay bales are coming along nicely! I have germination already from the squash.
My Uncle Buddy's Jeep dealership is one of the ones that Chrysler is closing. They've been in business for 40 or so years. He said that he's not sure what they'll do. Say a prayer for them and all the folks that have lost jobs. Times are hard and life so unpredictable!
Next month is the beginning of hurricane season. That sure seems to come around so quickly. Stock up, be prepared. Get batteries, food, water, etc. Don't get caught at the last minute needing to stock up, especially if you live on or near the coast (that includes everyone in Florida!). Remind your friends and neighbors and if you are able, help the folks that need it. You know, we're all in this boat together.
Yesterday I came home from Garden Club with two crepe myrtles and an angle trumpet. As it was mighty hot and dry I just put them in the shade and took a nap. We had such an incredible luncheon. There were a gazillion salads, several different deviled eggs and desserts to die for! I tried my best to have some of each and when I finally got home a nap was my only option!
Around 4 o'clock I decided to go ahead and do my plantings. Got the 3 shrubs planted and 5 bags of cypress mulch spread out along with some weeding and then it started raining!!! Not just a sprinkle, but a downpour that lasted for about 40 minutes. Then it settled down and did a really nice rain all night! How perfect is that? The temperature dropped from 90 to the mid 70's and it actually felt cold! I turned the air conditioner off and opened both the front and back doors and watched Survivor with a lap robe, a dog and a couple of cats on me! More rain is in the forecast for the next few days!
The hay bales are coming along nicely! I have germination already from the squash.
My Uncle Buddy's Jeep dealership is one of the ones that Chrysler is closing. They've been in business for 40 or so years. He said that he's not sure what they'll do. Say a prayer for them and all the folks that have lost jobs. Times are hard and life so unpredictable!
Next month is the beginning of hurricane season. That sure seems to come around so quickly. Stock up, be prepared. Get batteries, food, water, etc. Don't get caught at the last minute needing to stock up, especially if you live on or near the coast (that includes everyone in Florida!). Remind your friends and neighbors and if you are able, help the folks that need it. You know, we're all in this boat together.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
It's Wednesday!!!!!
TGIW!
Still no rain...scattered around our area, but not here. More scattered showers predicted for today. I'm hopeful.
My second job has fizzled out. I had been going to my old job once a week for the past year. It only amounted to about a hundred dollars every six weeks or so, but that was nice to have. Oh well. Rumor has it that they are closing...they've cut out most of the jobs and the customers are slowly being absorbed into home office where I am. I'm sorry to see this happen.
I stopped at the service station on the way home yesterday. They put my car over that pit thingy that they walk down into and scraped off a bunch of the plastic bag that was melted all underneath. They weren't able to get it all and said that it should just melt off. Said it shouldn't cause a fire, but the smell is just awful!
Last night was the three hour season finale of Biggest Loser. A 48 year old woman won! She went from close to 300 pounds to something like 120 pounds (I think it was less)! Can you imagine? She looked absolutely wonderful as did most of the contestants. Some of them didn't do so well, I know the discipline it takes to keep on an exercise and healthy diet routine is awfully hard...I can't do it. I did get my dumb bells out and did a few things...I'd like to think that I'll do it every day. Doubt it.
Tomorrow is garden club. We're all to take either a salad or a dessert. I'm thinking I'll take my taco pasta salad with black beans. It's unusual and good.
TGIW!
Still no rain...scattered around our area, but not here. More scattered showers predicted for today. I'm hopeful.
My second job has fizzled out. I had been going to my old job once a week for the past year. It only amounted to about a hundred dollars every six weeks or so, but that was nice to have. Oh well. Rumor has it that they are closing...they've cut out most of the jobs and the customers are slowly being absorbed into home office where I am. I'm sorry to see this happen.
I stopped at the service station on the way home yesterday. They put my car over that pit thingy that they walk down into and scraped off a bunch of the plastic bag that was melted all underneath. They weren't able to get it all and said that it should just melt off. Said it shouldn't cause a fire, but the smell is just awful!
Last night was the three hour season finale of Biggest Loser. A 48 year old woman won! She went from close to 300 pounds to something like 120 pounds (I think it was less)! Can you imagine? She looked absolutely wonderful as did most of the contestants. Some of them didn't do so well, I know the discipline it takes to keep on an exercise and healthy diet routine is awfully hard...I can't do it. I did get my dumb bells out and did a few things...I'd like to think that I'll do it every day. Doubt it.
Tomorrow is garden club. We're all to take either a salad or a dessert. I'm thinking I'll take my taco pasta salad with black beans. It's unusual and good.
TGIW!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Heat
Yesterday we hit a new high for the date...95 degrees! I wore walking shorts to work!
Saturday I planted some of the hay bales. Just seeds...still want to get a few bedding plants. Put out 2 different types of squash, 2 different types of peppers and Roma tomato seeds. It'll be interesting to see what works!
Sunday when I got home from Tallahassee I was absolutely shocked when I walked into the house! Jazzy had been on a rampage. She tore up pillows, books, magazines, 2 decks of cards, a couple of ball point pens and some things that were in such small pieces that I'm not sure what they were! It was spread out through 3 rooms! I didn't try to salvage anything. Just scooped it all into a big black garbage bag and took it out to the trash can. So yesterday I left both dogs outside...hated to because of the heat, but just can't take this separation anxiety! I plan to just leave Jazz out today...Shirley's getting a little old for the heat.
Last night I got a phone call from Uncle Buddy. He was just touching base and wanted to tell me about his visit with Mother. It was a good conversation and it cleared the air a bit.
The TV weatherman just said we could possibly get rain today. We haven't had any this month. Cross your fingers!
Saturday I planted some of the hay bales. Just seeds...still want to get a few bedding plants. Put out 2 different types of squash, 2 different types of peppers and Roma tomato seeds. It'll be interesting to see what works!
Sunday when I got home from Tallahassee I was absolutely shocked when I walked into the house! Jazzy had been on a rampage. She tore up pillows, books, magazines, 2 decks of cards, a couple of ball point pens and some things that were in such small pieces that I'm not sure what they were! It was spread out through 3 rooms! I didn't try to salvage anything. Just scooped it all into a big black garbage bag and took it out to the trash can. So yesterday I left both dogs outside...hated to because of the heat, but just can't take this separation anxiety! I plan to just leave Jazz out today...Shirley's getting a little old for the heat.
Last night I got a phone call from Uncle Buddy. He was just touching base and wanted to tell me about his visit with Mother. It was a good conversation and it cleared the air a bit.
The TV weatherman just said we could possibly get rain today. We haven't had any this month. Cross your fingers!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Yesterday was Mother's Day
My sister and I met for breakfast yesterday and afterwards went to the nursing home to see Mother. She was still having breakfast when we got there and we sat outside while we waited for her to finish. It was quite sad to see the state she was in. She was dribbled with food and had scrambled eggs under her fingernails.
It was awfully cold inside, so we got one of her sweaters for her, but we were only able to get it on one arm and over her shoulders. She's hard to maneuver and heavy.
The three of us went outside to the garden and sat at the new picnic table (Mother in her wheel chair) for a visit. I read her cards to her (one a letter from Rosie) and she seemed pleased. Visiting gets harder each time. She's more child-like and more vague and confused each time. She has begun drooling pretty badly, too. We asked her about her visit with Uncle Buddy. We thought she remembered the visit until she told us that Aunt Betty was there, too. She wasn't. We visited for an hour or so, until Mother starter dozing off in her chair.
When we took her back in the dining room was being set up for a Mother's Day party. So we parked her chair so she could watch with some of the other ladies there. It's a shame that it always feel like we're escaping when we leave.
Happy Mother's Day.
It was awfully cold inside, so we got one of her sweaters for her, but we were only able to get it on one arm and over her shoulders. She's hard to maneuver and heavy.
The three of us went outside to the garden and sat at the new picnic table (Mother in her wheel chair) for a visit. I read her cards to her (one a letter from Rosie) and she seemed pleased. Visiting gets harder each time. She's more child-like and more vague and confused each time. She has begun drooling pretty badly, too. We asked her about her visit with Uncle Buddy. We thought she remembered the visit until she told us that Aunt Betty was there, too. She wasn't. We visited for an hour or so, until Mother starter dozing off in her chair.
When we took her back in the dining room was being set up for a Mother's Day party. So we parked her chair so she could watch with some of the other ladies there. It's a shame that it always feel like we're escaping when we leave.
Happy Mother's Day.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Heat and Electricity
Well, here it it! Summer! Our daytime temperatures have been in the high 80's and low 90's for the past few days and the nights aren't too cool either! Night before last I turned the air conditioner on for the first time...turned it on at 10pm and then off at 5am. Did the same thing last night. I can cope with the heat in the daytime, but sleeping is almost impossible at night. To compensate for the electricity that the air conditioner uses I'm not burning lights, even though they all have the compact florescent bulbs. When I must have light I'm using either candles or flashlights. I know that doesn't make up for but a smidgen of the electricity, but it's something!
Not doing Dinner with the Ladies tonight.
Sunday is Mother's Day. My sister and I will have breakfast and then go to the nursing home.
At 4:30 yesterday afternoon Bert called. He wanted to let me know that there was a Mother's Day cookout at the nursing home at 5:30! Hey! That's just a little short notice! Obviously I didn't go...by the time I showered and dressed and drove to Tallahassee it would have been over!
Norma broke her toe the other night. She doesn't know how, she just woke up with it swollen, black and broken. The doctor wrapped it and told her to wear that shoe she had to wear when she broke a bone in her foot a few months back. She's in her late 80's...I wonder about her bone density...you'd think her doctor would check that and her vitamin D levels. You know, most of us are deficient in vitamin D and without an adequate amount of it we don't absorb calcium.
Not much going on...not much news. That's a good thing!
Not doing Dinner with the Ladies tonight.
Sunday is Mother's Day. My sister and I will have breakfast and then go to the nursing home.
At 4:30 yesterday afternoon Bert called. He wanted to let me know that there was a Mother's Day cookout at the nursing home at 5:30! Hey! That's just a little short notice! Obviously I didn't go...by the time I showered and dressed and drove to Tallahassee it would have been over!
Norma broke her toe the other night. She doesn't know how, she just woke up with it swollen, black and broken. The doctor wrapped it and told her to wear that shoe she had to wear when she broke a bone in her foot a few months back. She's in her late 80's...I wonder about her bone density...you'd think her doctor would check that and her vitamin D levels. You know, most of us are deficient in vitamin D and without an adequate amount of it we don't absorb calcium.
Not much going on...not much news. That's a good thing!
Monday, May 04, 2009
Busy weekend
I always have so many things on my list that I want to get done. Crossing them off the list is such a joy! I guess part of the pleasure is the fact that I'll always have a list...it'd be a shame to run out of things that needed to be done!
Didn't do Dinner with the Ladies Friday night.
Yesterday I had the house pressure washed. The mildew on the north and east sides of the house had turned it absolutely green with circles the side of fifty cent pieces! Really looked awful...didn't know just how bad until it was clean!
The empty charred shell of a house down the street is drawing such traffic on this little road. Sight-seers at some points this weekend actually created traffic jams! It will be better when the house is taken down and the lot is cleared. As it is, it's a constant reminder of what happened.
The last time I drove my car was last Wednesday. I hope I remember how to this morning.
Gotta go to work. (Should say"Get to go to work today"!)
Didn't do Dinner with the Ladies Friday night.
Yesterday I had the house pressure washed. The mildew on the north and east sides of the house had turned it absolutely green with circles the side of fifty cent pieces! Really looked awful...didn't know just how bad until it was clean!
The empty charred shell of a house down the street is drawing such traffic on this little road. Sight-seers at some points this weekend actually created traffic jams! It will be better when the house is taken down and the lot is cleared. As it is, it's a constant reminder of what happened.
The last time I drove my car was last Wednesday. I hope I remember how to this morning.
Gotta go to work. (Should say"Get to go to work today"!)
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