Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013

Subject: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Sep 13 - 02:41 AM

Poetic license in this name of this thread. It's the first one in which Kat isn't at least reading some of it in all of the years these have been running (almost five!) We're moving forward without our friend, but knowing that she cheered us on and enjoyed reading about our experiences and observations. This one's for you, Katlaughing!

As the seasons change and it cools into weather that brings more energy and anticipation of the holidays, this might be a good time to make some short lists of the things we want to accomplish before the end of the year. I'll let this run for a couple of months again and we can look back to our lists and see how we're doing. If you want, we can even do strike throughs on the lists (just let me know and I'll add the code.)

I always want to have eBay stuff going to both make space and make money. This fall I'll endeavor to actually do so. My kitchen is looking much better with the new closet pantry in place, but now I need to finish drawing down the sales things in my sun room because that is where I keep crystal and platters, in a shallow cupboard behind sliding mirrored doors. It is a bit of an obstacle course to reach that cupboard, so clearing the eBay stuff also clears the sun room.

I do have higher retail goals - I would eventually like to pick up things at estate sales to sell on eBay, but I've resisted much of that shopping until I have the room to stage the things I bring home and turn around and sell them quickly. There's no profit if all of my cash is tied up in unsold items. So it needs to be ready before I expand. My other ongoing project is that I have 15 - 20 pounds still to lose and I want to finish by the end of the year.

What are some of you planning to do, and can you pace yourselves to accomplish it/them this fall? Declutter, crafts, sales, remodels, repairs, etc.?

Into September with anticipation of more comfortable weather and establishing reasonable goals. Here is the last month's thread.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 01 Sep 13 - 12:48 PM

I love the beginning of you post...thinking of Kat often and wondering if she can see down into our lives and is giggling at how much work we have yet to do and how much of it really matters in the end.

However, for me, September is the beginning of my favorite time of year. The days are cooler, the leaves are beautiful (ok...I do love the changing colors but abhor the thought of naked trees to come) and the renewed sense of energy. It feels like the perfect time of year to start fresh with things...perhaps from all those years of heading off to begin a new school year.

I want to begin really working on my weight issues in earnest because I haven't been. I haven't gone crazy with eating things I shouldn't but the fact is, I've gained enough weight that I am now ready to begin again on that journey. Weight Watchers is in my very near future. I'd like to think I can go it alone but I know myself well enough to know that that just isn't the case. I hate to spend the money on it but in the end, it's what I need to do for myself. I will feel better and have more energy...both are things that I wake up wanting on a daily basis.

My house will continue to be in a chaotic state for a bit longer as it is canning season. I have cases of empty jars and cases of filled jars with more work to be done. This week will involve corn, cucumbers and pears...perhaps some apples as well. It's just a crazy busy time of year. I am toying with the idea of joining the local YMCA however, not until canning season has considerably slowed down. In the meantime, I'll continue to do the daily chores that keep the house running smoothly and livable but will save the larger jobs for a bit later.

Craft wise, I am currently working on a Christmas quilt and have everything cut and ready to sew for a large tote bag...a very large, cute tote bag that I am anxious to see finished. I'm also working on several different table runners/toppers to sell at a local craft fair that I've committed myself to do in November. It's my first and I'm excited about it.

My nana turns 91 years old in a few days and I am going to head downstate to be there for her special day. The family has planned to take her out to lunch (which is about all she can handle) and then to return to their homes. This means I'd have to drive 3 hours, do lunch and drive another 3 hours with my 3 year old. That's not a great plan. So....I've decided that I'll go down the day before and spend some time with her at her house, staying overnight. She loves to see Jeremiah so that will be nice. I made a chicken dinner that she LOVES (which I also make a ton of so I can freeze a good 12 servings or so that I can freeze individually for her) so I'll make that for her birthday dinner. :) She doesn't want or need anything (although she always loves photos of Jeremiah) so I think this is the best thing to do and then maybe a game of Phase 10, her favorite game. :)

So...for now, that's my plan.

Happy September!

Michell

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Sep 13 - 01:38 PM

Sounds like a great plan, Michelle! Here is the video that set me on losing weight, but I know you have health issues that might not make this entirely do-able. It's here for anyone to refer to. I latched onto the bit about alternate day fasting, and have lost almost 30 pounds since I started this in April. Today is a "fasting day" so I've been drinking tea and I just ate some cantaloupe from the garden and a peach. This evening I'll have a bowl of soup or something along those lines, keeping in the 500 calorie range for the day.

Another hot day (hankering for fall cool weather also!) that is supposed to hit 104^o, so I'll list more eBay items. I went outside this morning thinking it would be cool enough to weed but it never really cooled off overnight because the humidity is pretty high.

Back to the stack of stuff in the sun room.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 01 Sep 13 - 03:14 PM

Yeah...I take insulin so I'm not sure this is a good option for me. Thanks for sharing it though!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 01 Sep 13 - 04:42 PM

I am half way through the video and must stop to do something else but I am interested and intrigued. Hmm.   Can't wait to see the rest of it..maybe it is something I can do! Thanks Maggie!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Sep 13 - 08:46 PM

Tom and I just spent a lovely afternoon with a couple of friends, sitting around the table on the deck under the umbrella (which became important when it started to spritzel, then turned into a real and steady rain).

Better than a vacation, we finally had a chance for real conversation where Tom could contribute -- it being reasonably quiet on the deck and there just being the four of us. I am finally very mellow and relaxed...

We also sampled some Sea Hagg's poteen (I'm not sure what they actually called it), some of Flag Hill's Karner Blue gin (ineresting aromatics), and some of my infused vodkas -- the Earl Grey made a hit.

Time to go upstairs and under-react for a while before putting Tom and the house to bed. What I was reading last night out of H. Allen Smith's "Life In a Putty Knife Factory" has inspired Tom to start on his memoirs.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 02:36 AM

That sounds like a lovely afternoon, and something Tom has probably been craving for a long time.

More stuff on eBay this evening. I'm stacking the boxes as they are described, measured, weighed, and listed. I try to list things that I think will actually sell, so here's hoping this adds up to not only getting bulky stuff out of here, but bulking up the PayPal account.

Monday off. Nice!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: GUEST
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 06:12 AM

On the top of my declutter list is getting rid of wasps that have been living and procreating in timbers that raised the yard on the other side of my fence about 2.5 feet higher than my yard. I enlisted the help of my neighbour as the nest is technically on his property. It's my walkway that is not useable until the wasps are gone. So far all we've accomplished was removing one fence board to get some access to the nest site and upsetting the wasps who stung the young fellow on his hand when he went closer to see if they were asleep. I'm wondering if it will be safe to go anywhere in my yard this week?

My high school grad class will be celebrating 50 years with a dinner in the city where I graduated. A few months ago I sent the money to pay for myself and Mr. rags to attend. Now that the event is just weeks away, I'm regretting doing that. The few friends that I had, of the 250 students who graduated with me, are all on the "unable to contact" list, leaving me, a social phobic, to spend the evening sharing memories with people I don't remember.

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 01:05 PM

Rags, I bet you'll still find some ways to connect with some of them. I didn't make it to any of my reunions so far; maybe I'll make it to 50. And I suppose it will be incumbent on me to try to reach some of those folks I want to reconnect with and see if they're going or meet them elsewhere.

We had some rain overnight! There was a noisy (but rainless) storm in the evening, and it passed, so I thought that might be all, but then about 2am lightning started again and at dawn it was actually raining. Good omen for autumn, I hope.

Shifting gears a bit today. I have a half-dozen electronic related items listed on eBay, now for a few soft goods, then some puttering around the house. And paying bills. Oy. That's going to hurt, after last month's impromptu travel.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Claire M
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 02:35 PM

Hiya,

Dr's appt @ 8.50am tomorrow, cos I wanted a specific dr – aarrrgh!

I'm always de-cluttering; clothes I now find uncomfortable due to increasing stiffness [ooh Matron], along w/ other reasons I won't mention [no more jeans for me!], magazines, cds, dvds etc. I no longer want. Some were/are 2nd copies [unwanted, given away, then – God knows why – wanted back]

Craft-wise, I've always loved designing, so @ some point, I'm going to start making my own tops, floaty/tie-dye ones. & yet more earrings [I need to grow more ears!]. & posters; w/ lots of help of course. Well, help w/ 1st 2 @ least.

Usually try to pass whatever it is on/leave it where others can use it; that's what I was brought up to do, rather than throw it away. People are a bit finicky here – they think I've left my stuff by accident, & insist I keep it w/ me @ all times.

I always think if people want to contact me they will. I vividly remember an encounter w/ a former classmate who cornered me, telling me how his gf had dumped him after discovering he lied re being ill; another one said he hated everyone @ college, it was crap, he wished he'd never started etc. This is why I don't use Facebook..........

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 05:49 PM

I've tried to locate the other geeky kids I hung out with in high school, we were a loose collection of loners, in the fourth year Latin class and the Physics Club. The last time I saw any of them was the day we graduated. So far no luck. I'm guessing that the women married and changed surnames? It's likely that some didn't make it this far? We're all close to 70. The one "boy" in the group should be easier to find, he'll still have the same surname. Unfortunately that name was "Chan". Any idea how many "Joe Chans" live in the Vancouver, BC, area?

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 07:45 PM

The impending annual MIL visit this year coincides with cleaning-as-PT and (as usual now), flea control. A helper gave the downstairs a good deep cleaning about a year ago and now my turn begins.

The flea application of choice this year is food-grade Diotomaceous Earth (DE). So as I clear up the floor of each zone in the downstairs rooms, it gets all furniture moved for a thorough vacuuming, then the DE is applied and brushed in, then furnuture moved back.

A week later each zone will get re-vacuumed and thoroughly dusted. A zone or two a day should get it done. Hardi helps by moving larger pieces and brushing the DE into the rugs. When we get to the dusting we willl do it together.

As I go I am feeding the Trash, Keep, Sell, and Donate bins and boxes. I'm hoping MIL will help me price and display the Sell items for a late September porch sale.

My hope is that this wil be a foundation for adequate home care routines now that I have a metabolism to do that, thereby ending recliner life and TV school.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Sep 13 - 10:12 PM

If you search on your high school graduating class you may be surprised at what you find. I located quite a few people that way.

Kitchen work this evening. Heading to bed early and back to work tomorrow. This has been a very nice four days off!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 03:12 AM

The wasps were still hale and hearty today. They allowed me to remove equipment that I'd left near their nest last evening and paid no attention to me as I wandered around my yard. There were signs that my neighbour is determined to eliminate them, the most promising being that he had purchased and left three more cans of wasp spray in the walkway that fear of the wasps has prevented me from using.

Weather was perfect today to give my living room and dining room drapes and liners their annual washing, followed by hanging them on the clothesline in the hot sun. With relative humidity ranging from 32% to 50% they dried very quickly. I was able to wash and dry them all in two lots. They are all back hanging where they belong tonight.   

SRS,
What does "If you search on your high school graduating class" mean? I have no idea how/where one does that.

Thanks,
rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: GUEST,Eliza
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 10:57 AM

Have cleared an area of my garden which never looked much. Plan to plant with small Heucheras (it's a bit shady down there.) And have just ordered 50 Allium bulbs of 'drumstick' type and 50 of 'sky-blue' type. They're really good for flower arranging and stay around forever in the garden without being bullies. At this time I try to assess what is looking nice and what is a bit of a mess. Too much of the latter and not enough of the former, so a few changes needed before the spring!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 11:15 AM

Sky blue Allium sounds gorgeous! Good luck with the new plantings.

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: GUEST,Eliza
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 01:10 PM

Thank you ragdall! I get tempted to buy lots of nice bulbs and plants, then when they arrive I groan inwardly at all the planting. But hopefully it'll be worth it next summer. Must also get lots of compost to replenish the soil. Norfolk soil is light and free-draining, and needs some added bulk to retain moisture.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 01:38 PM

17 quarts of corn canned or frozen
6 quarts of peaches canned...so far today....at least another 9 to go!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 01:44 PM

Rags, if you go to the top facebook search bar (where it says "search for people places and things") and enter your city and town and high school name (i.e., Sealth High School Seattle WA class of 72) you'll likely find there is a group that either is in place for your school, or a group that is more specifically in place for your year of graduation. You'll see some of those people contributing info about local lore and can track back via their friends to find the people you're looking for.

Another way to find some of those people on facebook is on one of the proliferation of "You're from Seattle if. . . " threads (using Seattle only as an example, these aren't my search terms, and probably not yours either.)

I've been meaning to turn off the lights and computer earlier to get to bed earlier, and I managed it last night, even though sometimes it's tough after a few days off. That meant I was up early this morning and I even had time before heading to work to put up a couple of the bracket supports and three shelves over my potting bench in the sun room. I have a bunch of painted boards that we used as shelves in a setup years ago. They've been stacked against the wall in the garage and every so often I find a place to use some of them - this was one of those places where three are in use. I'll also pick up a couple of those under-shelf hanging wire baskets and use those for gardening gloves or other lightweight things that can stand to air out a bit on the wire racks. (Like this.)

It was a pretty morning and the high is predicted in the mid-90s. It's getting closer to being nice weather again (not too hot, not too cold.) Fall is creeping up on us.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Sep 13 - 01:46 PM

Great news on the canning and freezing, Michelle. I have to finish making jelly and jam tonight. That'll clear out more space in the fridge.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Sep 13 - 12:54 AM

Jelly and jam out of the way. Don't mind those small second and third degree burns on my arm, the jam was feeling a bit frisky. And the spots should wash out of my shirt.

More work on the new shelves this evening. There seems to be a lot of duplicate stuff in here so I'll take a batch out to the greenhouse tomorrow and keep a single set of the basics in this location.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 04 Sep 13 - 01:09 AM

Michelle,
The amount that you and others here accomplish in a day astounds me. I find it a challenge just to get showered and dressed before 3 pm.

SRS,
Good work with the shelves.

Thanks for explaining how you search for people. When I put in the school name and the city I got, "No results found for your query." The result was the same when I added the class year. The popular outgoing people will likely be at the reunion, so there is no need to look for them. Others, such as myself, are not likely to bother with social media.   

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Sep 13 - 01:27 AM

Try just the name of your school - fewer search terms may get you in the ballpark and you can zero in on your target from there.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 04 Sep 13 - 06:53 PM

Thanks. That worked. I found information about the school. I don't recognize any names there. i think they are all people who are currently involved with the school.

It's okay. I will be meeting the people who were interested in attending the reunion when I go there. There are about 65 names on the list. That leaves about 190 unaccounted for.

As none of the people I spent time with will be there, perhaps I can convince a few who are there that we were good buddies and they've just forgotten? I've been looking at their pictures in our Grad yearbook so I'll recognize them. They shouldn't have changed much in 50 years, should they? I know that I haven't, (wink, wink).

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 04 Sep 13 - 09:35 PM

I have no idea where the energy streak is coming from but I am enjoying it immensely! Today I ran 4 hours worth of errands, canned 13 more quarts of peaches, cleaned up most of the kitchen (still have 2 large pots to clean but they are cooling outside on the porch at the moment) and have had a shower. (All this on 3 hours of decent sleep....allergies making it hard to sleep).

Tomorrow is crazy busy so I'm hoping to get some decent sleep tonight. I gave in and took the Benedryl early (last night I didn't take it until about 3:00am). My schedule looks like this for tomorrow: Up early, Jeremiah to school, then to a town 30 miles away for a haircut, home, off to the pear orchards (this is prime picking time...expected to be over by next week), then an hour away to pick up two new oreo piggies, back to get Jeremiah, back to the orchards and home. Whew. I'm overwhelmed just thinking about it. Seems that everything is going on at once right now. I also have a half bushel of cucumbers to pickle, a quarter of a bushel of peaches to dehydrate....yeah....I can do...yes I can..I can, I can, I can.   And oh yeah...I CAN (as in I have been canning) LOL Don't mind me. I'm punchy.

I. Am. Done.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 12:29 AM

What a day you've had! I feel like I was working in slow motion during the day and got moving this evening.

This evening I found myself pulling out all sorts of little containers from the fridge. I tackled the produce items from the garden that were too old to use - they're now in the little compost bin beside the side door or on the big compost pile out back. I'll be picking during the fall and try to keep up with the rest of the peppers (most of what got dumped).

Also cleared out this evening are lots of little custard cups of grease from cooking. The dishwasher is full. Trash day tomorrow - that's why all of this fridge activity tonight.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 01:14 AM

Michelle,
You're doing the work of several people. You'll be well prepared for the winter, just as my little squirrel, who is also racing around, will be.

SRS,
At least the peppers won't be wasted, they'll make great compost and go back into the growing cycle.

Before I left home this morning I managed to wash and bleach some bird feeders etc. that have been empty for several weeks and to put out food for the squirrel and migrating sparrows. That's the extent of my accomplishments for the day, at home.

A morning meeting for board members at my seniors' centre forced me to get up from my foamy on the floor three hours after I went to bed. The AGM will be even earlier on Friday. I'm finding that I no longer run well on only 3 hours sleep a night, several nights in a row, but I've been a night person so long that I'm unable to make myself go to bed earlier. I was so tired by 4 p.m. today that I dragged my foamy out to the living room, put it on the floor beside the open (but screened) sliding door and had a wonderful peaceful sleep in the fresh air for over four hours. Ahhhhhhhh. That was so good! I guess that brought me up to seven hours sleep in 24 hours?

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 08:03 AM

The whole downstairs is now coated in DE. While it sits for about a week I will now sort the crap I didn't purge, and purge some more. Then I'll vacuum-dust. Then I'll re-stage all the horizontal surfaces and finish-dust as I go while Hardi wields the long-handled picture-duster. The kittens are great motivators for SRSLY keeping surfaces only sparsely occupied! :-)

~S~
PS main puder off line till MIL leaves in late September-- fone posting.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 09:09 AM

To quote one of Allan Fraser's wonderful songs (dance hall girls), I'm a week behind - or is it ... Anyway, life moves on so quickly. Fall is definitely in Quebec. Tons of rain and cool breezes.

Time for another wall in that so-called living space - maybe next week. I thought it would happen this week and covered everything with plastic on Tuesday. Today, I am going down and will uncover and keep moving to keep warm.

Dentist yesterday and a good chat with her wonderful self, ascertaining that any more work will be removal of a tooth if it gives me trouble - sometime in the future. Great relief as I had not understood her the previous visit (December) and was so confused I did not go back.

Good news is that R has finally reached the saturation point and agrees we need a designated "get rid of" area. fortunately there is lots of room at the mill for this. The auction on Monday netted two truckloads and a car load of "90% junk". The auctioneer just gets tired and says, "R will take it"!! or some such comment. Some good stuff, some very useful stuff and 90% yard sale or just plain junk. Next summer, on suitable days, I can put my portable wheel out front and a "YARD SALE" sign and try to re-coup some of what he spent but, more importantly, find homes for stuff that can be someone else's treasures.

We now have a beautiful bamboo vanity and linen cabinet and flooring for the bathroom. Of course there is still the huge hole in the room and no window! But there is a skylight and patio doors to go in, when B has the time for us ---- AFTER the wall between living space and the rest of the building so I can put in an air cleaner. Also a small wood stove for the LR.

I am leaving the city shortly for the country, hoping to meet with a prospective pottery student. Also hoping to get potting as I now have several orders to complete. And the writers support group at 5 pm.

Gotta go. Just stopped in to say, "hello, I'm still here!"

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 09:10 AM

For heavens sake, Susan, do not breathe in that stuff!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 12:18 PM

At least the DE is feed grade, not for pool filters (a contaminated version of DE). But I agree, don't inhale it.

This morning while tea brewed I folded some laundry. The sheets from last week got folded before being needed on the bed again this weekend. Too often I simply pull them out of the clean laundry basket and put them back on the bed. :-/

My goal with my eBay listings this month is to raise enough to pay the cell phone bill through PayPal. Giving myself a goal like that makes it easier to keep stuff listed. I have a couple of hundred dollars worth of stuff listed now, but it may not all sell, or not all this week. There are a few watchers and a fair number of views on some of them, and I have a stack to draw from to add more things to my listings.

The fridge is a much friendlier place this morning, without overripe peppers and cucumbers glaring at me from bags and bins. There are still a couple of unhappy cantaloupes in there, but I'll finish cutting those up tonight. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 02:29 PM

My health consultant points out that even food grade DE is contaminated with aluminum, thus causing a friend to have aluminum poisoning. She does not take these things lightly.

Back at the mill, the weather is COOL! And the mold pollution is health threatening. Recent rains seem to have exacerbated the problem. I am in process of considering how to cope. All doors open - it just blows through the whole place. That wall is essential. For now: stay in sun room - OK. Put plastic back up to block ... not going to work, too much wind. Darn! Need to go work on this, Bye!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Elmore
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 03:17 PM

Got tired reading this thread. Time for a nap.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 07:17 PM

Dried some of the laundry that was washed yesterday, but it will have to wait to be folded. (Nothing that can't sit in the dryer overnight.)

Got a mess more appointments for Tom at the Wound Center, with vascular docs and with the infectious diseases doctor (because if the heel wound is too deep, he'll need intravenous antibiotics again every 4 hours or so -- Tom has replacement heart parts). They are very very cautious, and, I guess, that's good.

Did a lot of running around today -- had to pick up a replacement computer mouse at my other computer guy's place, then had a nice visit with an old (in age) old (known him since 1973) friend who lived close by. Brought him the book "Misquoting Jesus" which he'd been wanting to read and de-accessioned a spool of week-whacker cord to him.

Was home long enough to have lunch (I finished off the heirloom tomato soup -- gotta get some more tomatoes at the farmers' market Saturday and make a big batch to freeze) and organize some paperwork (so I can photocopy some more documentation and take it to Community Action tomorrow). Took my elderly friend's mail to the post office and bought stamps for him on my way to get my hair cut -- all of a sudden as of yesterday it needed it desperately. Had a nice visit with my stylist of the past 30 years, too (but I left with a pile of magazines...). Then over to some other friends with the BB gun (and BBs) I promised to sell to them. Sold it to George for what I had just paid Carol to cut my hair (and tip).

It all works out...

BLTs with heirloom tomatoes for supper. Not Brandywines but they look and taste like Brandywines. Boy, were they good!

I think tonight I'm NOT going to work on filing Tom's freelance writing as I have most of this week. (Oh, looks like I haven't mentioned that here. Discovered why my archives don't have newspaper articles for a lot of events in that era -- Tom wrote the article and it was hidden in the boxes.)

Think I'll just read tonight and relax for a change. Too much running around today.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Sep 13 - 08:34 PM

Sounds like an excellent plan, Linn! And a good example to follow.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Sep 13 - 02:51 PM

That's a cute chain pull you posted on facebook - a blown glass bat - I suppose the next best alternative is to lure a real bat into the room to perch on your fan pull chain. :)

The installation of new shelves in the last couple of weeks has taken a lot of pressure off of the flat surfaces in my kitchen, they're no longer over-crowded. I'm still going back and forth on where some things need to live on the new shelves, but already it makes my canning activity much easier because I can see my empty jars all in one place, not stacked throughout the wire shelves as they were before. The next push is to decide if I want all of the vintage and antique items out the way they are or if some of them need to go away and be rotated into and out of the display on top of my cupboards, fridge, freezer, and kitchen queen.

Each day this week it has been up to 100^o and the air quality has been poor, but the sun is setting earlier and the mornings are a little cooler. Autumn is beginning to be detectable.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Sep 13 - 10:09 PM

Got plenty of birthday calories today. Went out for dinner with a friend and had a bowl of ice cream when I got home. Tomorrow is a fasting day and I need to mow the lawn so I'll burn more calories than I take in with my one small meal. I hope this law of averages keeps on working!

As usual there is a mix of stuff to do this weekend. Looks like it'll be hot every day for a while, so I'll have to work outside early or save stuff till later when it cools. I can't put off mowing, so I imagine that is first on my list for tomorrow.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Sep 13 - 03:29 PM

Relisting eBay items, pricing them to move. Adding more.

My ex just came over to pick up a few things and we did the tour of the pantry and I sent him home with a fresh batch of jelly and salsa from last fall. We were out with the dogs for a while (Zeke obsessively fetching) - it's still very hot so I'm leaving the mowing till evening.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 07 Sep 13 - 04:34 PM

SRS,
It's impressive that you can accomplish so much when the temperatures are so high. The new pantry shelves must be a great help.

At what point do we stop adding ways to organize more thing and start actually reducing the number/volume of things? I know the clock is ticking its way closer to the time when I will have to move into a basement suite or a small apartment. I think back to when I moved into this house over 40 years ago. We came from a small apartment, had only a small collection of furniture and very few "treasures" collected. There was so much empty space! I long to return to that state, but there is nothing that I've acquired since then that I feel I can part with without feeling a great sense of loss. My feeble attempts to get rid of things hasn't made a noticeable difference. Another obstacle, as of September 1st, our Regional District has imposed a fee system for loads of rubbish we take to the dump, that used to be free.

Thursday evening, I mowed both lawns (front and back yards). Friday evening I put fertilizer on both. Pushing and pulling the heavy lawnmower and the much lighter fertilizer spreader are equally hard on my spine, knees and hands. I'm taking anti-inflammatory meds and resting today. I don't know if I will manage looking after this house and yard much longer. So much upkeep that should have been done this summer and last was neglected. That can't continue much longer.

rags
P.S.
Is anyone else finding that it takes a very long time for Mudcat to load anything? Sometimes I give up waiting.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: mg
Date: 07 Sep 13 - 06:45 PM

when do we start reducing? i say when we turn age 50..you don't want to put it off until it becomes physically impossible, and you don't want to have more than you can maintain well...plus we all probably should be prepared to be mobile, downsize, evacuate etc.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Sep 13 - 07:17 PM

Yes, Mudcat has been pretty slow on a consistent basis for the last couple of weeks. I think Max has restarted it a couple of times, I don't know if he's working on anything to speed it up.

I understand about the contents of the house. Yes, we have been removing stuff and only not finding more efficient ways to store it. I understand about the furnishings conundrum - it takes me a long time to get around to removing pieces. In the last year I donated a loveseat sofa that came from my best friend when she moved out of the area. It isn't the couch that is important, it is the memories of the kids "camping out" on that sofa in the living room when they were little, and those memories aren't gone. Someone else is now using that sofa who needed it more than I did. I have family antiques that will go to the kids, but I have a lot of "gray area" stuff that they probably won't need, so that is where I need to concentrate on my thinning. The next big thing to go is the futon in my front room. Yes, the dogs sleep on it now, but I've kept lots of layers of sheets and blankets on it to keep it from picking up an aroma. My daughter's housemate is moving in December and taking the living room futon, so my futon will go up there to replace it. I've given her other sizable pieces of furniture, and when she eventually gets ready to move into a house of her own or they somehow break up the household (she shares a house with four or five other students) then I might help her move it elsewhere, but not back here. With that gone my front room will be a lot more manageable.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Sep 13 - 07:40 PM

Whirlwind trip downstate to celebrate my Nana's 91st birthday! I cooked up one of her most favorite meals last night for dinner and today the entire family (which is quite small) took her out for lunch. She was thrilled and that made my heart happy. She has a wonderful sense of humor and likes to tell people that she's decided her job on this earth is to make people laugh AND that she is a cougar (now chasing all men aged 70 and up). LOL With that in mind, I'd like to share that I got her a very sweet purple nightgown and some racy purple polka dot panties...her smirk was worth the 400 mile round trip....LOL!!!

XOXOXO

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Sep 13 - 08:03 PM

What an influence you are!

I had a "spare" wire rack that is now standing in from of the third of three windows in the bay window in the sun room. I'll use it for more plants (it used to hold pots and pyrex and such in the kitchen). And more items are listed or ready to go on eBay.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 08 Sep 13 - 08:15 AM

when do we start reducing? i say when we turn age 50..you don't want to put it off until it becomes physically impossible, and you don't want to have more than you can maintain well...plus we all probably should be prepared to be mobile, downsize, evacuate etc.

Oh no, mg! I'm almost 20 years behind on the program. I don't think I can ever catch up.

SRS, Good luck with your e-Bay sales. How long do your items stay listed?

I can't think of any furniture that we have that isn't being used. The room for my son's family is occupied only a couple of weekends a month and during school holidays, but all the beds are needed when they are here.

I guess I'll really need to work harder on emptying the roof space storage area, as soon as the weather is cooler? Perhaps another toy run to the son and family in Alberta will be made when we go to adore the infant whose arrival is expected very soon? I'm told that he will be called "Quits".

Michelle, Your grandmother sounds like a wonderful person. How lucky she is to have such a thoughtful (and naughty) granddaughter.

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Sep 13 - 11:31 AM

Rags, if you can identify the stuff you're storing that you use the least, that is certainly the least painful place to start. Once you get going you may well find you inspire yourself and can move into the next least-emotional space.

My eBay listings typically go up for a week. Sometimes as an auction, sometimes I add a "buy it now" price (this has to be about 33% higher now, so sometimes that price looks ridiculous so I don't bother). Other items are listed for a set sale price, no bidding, you can click on it and buy it. They run for a week and I relist, and if I decide it is too high priced or needs some tweaking, I do that before relisting. I have usually sold most things within a week, but now that I'm listing some more commonplace items they sometimes run for several weeks.

This morning I've been going through seeds packets. It's time to plant for fall (after I weed for fall) and I am tossing some of the truly ancient packs of commonplace seeds. I have a drawer-size plastic sock bin thing that I sort the seed packs by year and type (flowers or food). It goes back a few years, and what I end up doing is combining some of the older seeds in with a new batch - they get used and may grow, but I'm not relying on a several-year-old pack for the sole seed source. That said, I also think mixing years of seeds gives a little more diversity to the seed source which is probably a good thing.

It's supposed to be hotter today, but I'm tired of waiting for it to cool off so I'll be out there working for a little while. I need to weed some of the new beds and finish the front yard mowing. I watered the sweet potatoes yesterday so now I can pull the hose off of the turf and run the mower through there. (The sweet potatoes came back this year as volunteers on the berm in the front yard. I didn't have a great crop last year, but they looked so nice, so I let them stay and am watering again this year.)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 08 Sep 13 - 08:42 PM

I made breakfast and lunch, did 2 loads of laundry and rode along on several errands today. I have had 3 naps and at 8:42pm, I am ready to go to bed. The heck with dinner. I am DONE. (Pete is more than capable to make something for himself and Jeremiah).

Goodnight.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 08 Sep 13 - 09:25 PM

I've been in "I'll just do one more thing" mode all day. At almost 630 P.M., I'm still debating whether or not to shower and get dressed.

I cleaned all the dead blooms and shriveled petunia stems from the three window boxes. Most of the plants in the box on the South side are doing well, but I think I've lost the battle to save the petunias in the boxes on the North side of the house. I suspect the soil remaining damp, because of rain after a watering and no drainage, has allowed something to infect the plants. I may try moving some plants from planters into the boxes until frost, (which could come any day now).

The rest of my time has been spent attending to message boards and tweaking photos.

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Sep 13 - 01:07 AM

There were areas in the front lawn where the grass is still growing that I mowed (mostly it goes dormant, nothing kills Bermuda grass, not even a drought), and an area in the back where I keep the grass green for the dogs. Watering also taken care of for now.

I've moved a couple of obstacles from the hall outside my office, a file cabinet that is now tucked away in the office closet (but on a wheeled base so I can shift it to use the files) and a wire shelf that is now in the window for plants. There was a plastic file case on the shelf on top of the file and that is on a shelf in the closet. The job will be to make myself file regularly rather than let it pile up.

Laundry is in, dishes ready to run when this first load is finished, and then another load will be programmed to run before I get up and can dry before I leave for work. In hot weather I try to run these machines at night.

Eight items up on eBay now, and I'll try to keep at least this many balls in the air and list more. It looks good in the sun room to have this many boxes packed and measured and ready to ship once someone buys them. If no sale, then after a suitable number of listings things will be donated to Goodwill.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Sep 13 - 01:46 PM

It's a bit overcast today, keeping the temperatures "down" so that we may only hit about 95 today. I transplanted a chrysanthemum into one of my outdoor pots, it's a burnt orange color on sale at the grocery last week. Time to start seeds indoors or in pots outside, and now that I have another set of shelves in the window that I can easily reach I'll get started.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 09 Sep 13 - 02:10 PM

It's been fall-ish here....great morning temperatures...nice chilly nights, beautiful sleeping weather but I hear that in the next few days the temperatures will be near 90 again. UGH. Just in time for canning.

Today I spent some time cleaning out a double cupboard that is kind of a pain to reach (corner cupboard near kitchen sink). I took everything out, chucked all expired items (6 cans...UGH), wiped down the shelves, reorganized, emptied another cupboard and combined that with the first emptied cupboard. All soups, beans, canned meats, fruit, etc. Looks great...I'm going to use it as my lunch cupboard. I struggle with making a healthy lunch...I know what one is but never seem to get around to making myself one...I just grab what's easy. Well my friends, soup and fruit IS easy...DUH. Anyway, that's my plan...we'll see.

I rejoined Weight Watchers today. It's time and I'm ready.

I wish I had been ready 40 pounds ago but I just wasn't.

It is what it is. I told my mom I had rejoined and her first comment to me was, "Well, I KNOW you can do it!"

Thanks to my mom for never once saying things like, "It's about time. Are you gaining weight? What the hell is wrong with you? When was the last time you stepped on a scale? Just how many chins are you going to grow? Etc." The voice in my head could go on for hours without an interruption from anyone. I love and appreciate her supportivenss. Pete says he will go along with whatever I need.

Have I mentioned how much I love and appreciate my family lately? I do. I do. I really, really DO!

Have a great day everybody!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Sep 13 - 02:14 PM

We know you'll do it!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Sep 13 - 10:42 PM

A small (1 quart of cucumbers) batch of relish (with home grown cucumbers and red and green bell peppers) is sitting on the counter in salt water. I haven't made relish before, but I wanted to try it with these end-of-the-season cukes. I should come up with about 3 pints of relish, and next year I'll plan ahead better as far as planting the cucumbers. They were really crowded in the area where I planted them, but I'll move them to a mound further down the yard and let them spread and climb as much as they want. And be prepared for the prodigious output!

The kitchen is looking great, the peninsula counter is clear except for the kettle and toaster and tea things on one side, under the overhang from the top cabinets. Working tonight was nice, no clearing off first.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 10 Sep 13 - 06:43 AM

:) Thanks Maggie!! :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Sep 13 - 09:10 AM

It's been a busy few days and today will be a bit mad, too.

Finally got the Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival (PMFF) schedule grid worked out. Since Tom can no longer see to do it, I did it, conferred with him, and then sent it to another board member (who also maintains the website...and more) to proof, check for conflicts, make sure performers have enough time to get between venues, make sure we're best utilizing everybody, etcet etcet etcet. Between conferences Saturday night and Sunday morning, we got it all worked out.

And now the "Welcome" text (Tom dictates, I type it in, editing, fact checking and punching it up as I go, then back to Tom, probably revise, etc.) and the performer list for the program are ready to go to Babs for final proofing. Then I can get the program file to the printer by the weekend.

On Sunday, around everything else I was doing including running around between Nottingham and Lee) I turned a lot of those tomatoes that I got at the farmer's market (and the basil I got while relaxing with great conversation on a friend's deck a bit later) into a big batch of the heirloom tomato soup from The Splendid Table. A lot of it I hope to get into the freezer for winter days when you need a hit of summer.

Yesterday Tom had an appointment with an orthotics place as the Wound Center is prescribing two things for him -- a protective shoe that will take the pressure off his heel wound when he's walking and an ankle boot that will immobilize his ankle so the ankle wound won't be in constant motion.

Today Tom has an arterial study at the Wound Center this morning and then his regular weekly appointment this afternoon. We'll have time to kill in between, but lunch will take up a bit of it. Tom's working on his bio for a Bate's college reunion book -- the deadline is October 1, so I'll take it along and maybe we can get it put together in our "spare" time today...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Sep 13 - 11:14 AM

Cucumber relish sat in salt water and turmeric overnight, soaked further in fresh water this morning, drained, and is now in the vinegar/brown sugar/spice mix soak until I get home tonight and can heat it and jar and process it. I'm looking forward to this - again, I haven't made relish before. I should be able to try the dill pickles pretty soon that I made back in July.

My garden is a mess of tall grass. No chance to weed today (though I did some weeding yesterday out front and pulled the spiderwort and grass out of a small bed of penta that have grown nicely but were hidden in the weeds). Hopefully by the weekend those predicted temperatures in the low 90s mean that the overnight lows (in the low 70s) will lead to nice mornings for weeding.

Yesterday I had an "ah ha!" moment and realized an adapter I was considering taking to work to run a spare monitor on my laptop docking station didn't fit that setup, but it does go with a video card I have for sale on eBay. I've photographed it and I'll revise that listing. Maybe that'll be the push to sell the thing. :) Meanwhile, one of the IT guys had the correct adapter cable and I have a two-monitor setup now.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Sep 13 - 05:51 PM

We finally got home this afternoon and the first thing I did (after getting Tom safely in the house and settled in) was pour myself a gin & tonic. (I don't usually drink before a glass of wine or half a beer with dinner.)

That's what kind of day it is.

And when I checked my email, I'd gotten another request for a contribution from my Senator, Jean Shaheen. I'd send a rant back at her request yesterday saying how disappointed I was in her vote on the Syrian situation in the Foreign Relations Committee last week. So, I added to it and resent it again today. Isn't there ANYONE in Washington who cares about history, LEARNS from history, and makes decisions based on history?!? History IS important. ALL of the mistakes this country has made has been from a combination of greedy self interest and lack of respect (or even knowledge) of history.

Well, I'd been planning on going upstairs and under-reacting (word I learned during the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago -- when the police "over-reacted") until supper, but it's too late now. Gotta read Tom the program text and performer blurbs again before emailing it off to Babs and then I can make supper which, thank gawd!, is a really quick fix.

I WILL get some down time after supper!

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Sep 13 - 06:48 PM

I have a small ultrabook that I picked up before the Seattle trip. It's meant to use for writing and is extremely portable. As it sat on the secondary desk in my office I've glanced over at it every day from the big computer (quad core, purchased for the heavy lifting it can do with Adobe software). I realized I needed to move it to a different room, in it's own station with a comfortable chair at an attractive desk and a good lamp. I did that last night, and feel like I turned a corner. A place to write that isn't overpowered by the place to do other work.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Sep 13 - 07:24 PM

During Tom's arterial study this morning, one of the readings involved 10 minutes where neither Tom nor the tech nor I could talk. I went over songs in my head -- "Maggie May" twice, "Cruising 'Round Yarmouth" once, and a couple verses of "Three Drunken Maidens".

My way of meditating, I think.

Maggie, you are SO right about needing a smoothed out place to write, not cluttered with WORK.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Sep 13 - 01:00 AM

I worked the circulation desk tonight in the library, my primary job was to answer virtual chat reference questions. All of us are taking turns at the desk until staff is hired to do the evening shift. It's a friendlier part of the library these days, after the debacle of the "reorganization."

A few weeks ago I picked up a George Foreman grill at an estate sale ($2.50/it needs a drip tray, easily remedied). I have one word for the best use so far: quesadillas. They were a little over-stuffed, but that wasn't a problem, since it cooked on both sides simultaneously so doesn't need to be turned (always precarious).

Cucumber relish heated, hot-packed, processed, and sitting on the counter to cool. The summer garden's last hurrah. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 11 Sep 13 - 07:20 AM

I found some energy this afternoon so I did a round of changing beds and laundry, formatted and uploaded another batch of photos to Flickr, and fed the crows and squirrel.

In the evening I measured the depth of the drain across the entrance to my carport. Boards that were supporting the angle iron that holds up the grating had rotted. I made a trip across town to buy a treated board 2 x 10 x 12' to replace them. I hope it will do the job.

Also bought ten 2 x 3 x 8' boards to make an arbor for the back yard. I hope the weather will stay warm until the arbor is built, stained and dried.

I hope I can stay on task until it's done. I'd planned to get up early, haul the big saw out into the carport and spend all day working on that and other saw tasks, but it looks as if I'll need the morning for sleep and I'll be driving the carpool to a meeting in the evening. That won't leave much time for set up, working and clean up.

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Sep 13 - 10:31 AM

I would love to see some before, during, and after photos of this arbor. I've been thinking about using some wooden lattice in several places in the yard. Over the weekend I drove past a house that had 1/2 width panels along the side of the garden as demarcation between lawn and garden, and it looked much nicer than my droopy chicken wire.

Going to a reception at work today, where I have a couple of photos in an exhibit that is up this semester. One of them is a submission I made last summer, the other isn't labeled as mine, but it's from about a decade ago, from a study I made of photographing the library from all angles. I went out in the fall in the afternoons to get the great light. It is simply labeled "university collection" because I used it so long ago they've forgotten where it came from. I'll let them know today and claim it (I am turning over my prints and negatives this semester, so the originals will be in one of those boxes.)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Sep 13 - 04:39 PM

The recycle impulse has enablers on campus in the form of folks who specialize in recycling. I found a bunch of plastic jewel cases in the trash yesterday and I lugged them to the large e-waste bin on our ground floor, and called that department to pick them up. This afternoon I saw him packing that stuff up and had him come down to my floor where a bunch more stuff is being discarded that should be recycled. Business cards were exchanged and people are realizing that not only can he pick this stuff up, he can take over some of their work (co-workers don't need to spend hours shredding discs, he can have it done.) I'm glad when my persistence on this finally pays off.

I'm seeing more watchers on some of my eBay listings this week, so maybe some of my techno-discards will find a new home in a fiscally satisfying manner, instead of finding their way to the gray bin upstairs or to the Goodwill.

Hump day. Something to celebrate!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 11 Sep 13 - 05:46 PM

Main floor vacuuming (and removal of DE) is done. All LR surfaces are seriously de-junked; I filled a whole trash barrel with sale items and another with paper trash. There will be more sale stuff when I tackle the DR's china cabinet, which has become a default curio cabinet. Photograph and PURGE!!!

A GREAT thing happened a few days ago-- I have been holding a box of fam fotos and of the origanal fam there are now only my brother and I left. He has estranged himself, so I did not want to send them to him-- bad history in 'em, which he'd likely toss in the trash.

Well, my son and DIL want them, and will sort them and get them into acid-free containers. On my bext visit I'll give them caption info. They will then take it on a visit to my brother, and present it as a completed project. If he does not want the result, they do-- but I get it outta my HOUSE as soon as I can ship it and it is WAY past time to move these along the family foodchain. It is the last box lurking in the LR needing to go where it belongs. It feels like a huge weight off my shoulders. (It goes with a whole LOT of stuff my mom had "assigned" to me that I never should have agreed to and that she never should have asked of me.)

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Sep 13 - 10:31 PM

Cleaned out some veggie bins in the fridge - things have been freezing so I needed to move objects around to avoid blocking vents. I stopped on the way home for a fresh batch (my two bags of grocery are always so much more affordable if I don't buy any meat, just veggies).

I moved a touch lamp (with three settings) to the antique desk where I've set up the laptop. It looks warm and welcoming.

Several of my eBay listings now have watchers. I need to find some more things to list, and be prepared to keep several things up at once. They'll end either when people buy them now or when they finish the last day and people bid at the last minute. The good thing at eBay now is that each listing shows how many total people are watching the sale (you can choose to watch it, adding it to a list of items you are considering bidding on so you don't need to search for them every time you visit). This puts pressure on those who really want your item to go ahead and buy it before one of the others gets it. (I'm sharing the information to give Linn a bit more information about the eBay process).

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 12 Sep 13 - 05:00 AM

i need some tech advice. just broke the laptop someone gave me and am reverting to an even older and slower one. i have free wifi in the big house on the property here and i think it will reach my cabin. i need to save money on internet. i mostly want it right now for internet and email and maybe hulu etc. plus i have a computer protection plan for 10/month. i am thinking a very cheap tablet like this..i know imet will be disposable and customer support is awful

http://www.amazon.com/Archos-70-Internet-Tablet-Black/product-reviews/B00422SH5C/ref=cm_cr_pr_btm_link_next_3?ie=UTF8&pageNumber=3&showViewpoints=0&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending

click

if it lasted two months i would probably get my money's worth. only problem is i wnant to get back to genealogy and don't think i could do it on this but by then might afford a newish laptop..

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 12 Sep 13 - 10:14 AM

Went to the country yesterday, arriving late morning. After lunch, the heat and humidity defeated me. I was a blob. Then the rain came - in torrents! In the end, I gave up trying to figure out how to sleep there, forget getting pots made a a firing going! Came back to the city, took a hot bath and did not cough all night for a change! This morning, R is trying to find out when Bruno can come and put that wall in so I can have a safe place, with air cleaner. After about half an hour on the phone with B, we are no further ahead. Steam coming out my ears!

I really wanted to have new pots for the weekend but yesterday was the last day to manage it. OK, so now I will continue to try for the next event. And the orders promised by 1 October. The work area is not bad for pollution. Only the end of the space near the futon on which we sleep where all the pollution is blowing through from the lower end - Well, hard to explain and frustrating to figure out. I am venting because I am so tired of coughing.

I am going to go take another hot bath, recover, go to the country, try to find a carpenter who is available, meet with Vanessa who is bringing her pottery wheel over today. Need to get a key made for her. V visited on Monday and we agreed she can do pottery in the pottery area. She will help get it organized. Her existence will be encouraging for me. Now, need to find a carpenter down there rather than wait on B to have time for us.

Darn, R just left and I forgot to ask him to put the air cleaner in the car. BATH, NOW.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Sep 13 - 10:57 AM

I don't have a great opinion of tablets for much computer, mg, but that's mostly because I don't like to "type" on a screen and they have such a small amount of memory in them.

Take a look at the refurbished laptops at NewEgg.com. See if there is something there that might give you more life than the tablet. The tablet is already a couple of years old, chances are things (applications, etc.) have moved beyond its operating system. That can mean that the OS of the older device can't support newer programs so well. I have that problem with my smart phone - they updated the OS to the point that it is no longer efficient. I can't control if this downloads or not, that won't be the case in your device, but still, the changes in the last couple of years have been substantial.

Good luck in getting those spaces built the way you want, Dorothy. I can hardly visualize what this old mill must look like now.

SRS

Subject: RE: Diotomaceous Earth
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Sep 13 - 01:15 PM

I have to say, as an anti-flea treatment, Diotomaceous Earth (food-grade DE) really does work. In the rug it ensures that any flea eggs that hatch will not survive long enough to lay the next round of eggs. On the pets it is a good supplement to Frontline; I think if we keep up applying it to the pets weekly, we may be able to eliminate the Frontline altogether.

Vacuuming it up off the rug, if you use enough to really work, requires a vac bag change about every 60 square feet, because the dust clogs the bag pretty fast. They recommend using a broom to "scrub" the DE down into the carpet pile; we found that an old-fashioned, non-electric carpet sweeper was much easier to use. We covered the thickly-DE'ed sections with clean sheets so that when we walked on them, the dust sank into the fiber instead of rising into the air with each step. By the end of the recommended week of leaving it on the carpet, a lot of it had gone below surface level-- which means it will keep acting as we continue to vacuum it up to the surface and as any new eggs fall to the floor into it.

The DE also absorbed some dirt and barefoot-oils and looks much cleaner than it did, pre-treatment. No odor.

We used about 4-5 lbs of it for a 12x25 foot LR and a 12x12 DR, plus on the pets and their bedding. I'm setting a reminder on my calendar to pre-treat the carpets next year just before the heat/humidity of fleas season hits.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Sep 13 - 05:47 PM

If it is cooler or rainy now it is a good time to broadcast (via hose end sprayer, watering can, backpack sprayer, there are various methods) beneficial nematodes around the house and in any kennel and general traffic areas for your dogs. Put them out on a cloudy day or in morning or evening. They do best when they can get down into moist soil and not be exposed to bright sunlight. You buy them from a refrigerated supply in places like feed stores or via overnight shipping. The package of stuff is poured into a bucket and allowed to spread out into the water. You can filter the water through a paper sieve often provided with them so your sprayer doesn't clog. Once you mix them keep the tank agitated and spray them pretty quickly (they won't survive in the water for a long time.)

They may seem expensive for the application, but if you have a large yard and buy the larger package, putting them out now in the fall should take care of fleas in the entire yard for the fall and into the spring. You can redo again next year, but they stay in the environment and they kill flea eggs in the soil stage.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Sep 13 - 12:22 AM

I got some letters written this week (yes, written, as in hand-written!) and mailed. I finished the last in my list, a letter to Morgan. I've been meaning to send it for ages, and I must say, I'm out of practice doing that much handwriting. I hope he can read it!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 13 Sep 13 - 10:46 AM

I have been so busy this week and I have to say that it feels WONDERFUL to have the energy to keep up with most of it. I am naturally falling asleep at 9:30ish and sleeping a solid 7 or 8 hours...last night I didn't wake up even once!!!).

I was awake at 5:30 this morning, have had my shower, got Jeremiah up and around, made breakfast for my boys, took the little one to school, went to a yard sale that someone had given me a heads up about (I got about 30 quilting magazines for free and lots of beautiful quilting and applique books and one book about the history of quilting..which I can't wait to read and one of those spinning,3D metal sun catcher things AND a few little cars for Jeremiah for under 10 bucks! SCORE!), stopped at the post office and then picked up 3 bags (think 40 pounds of bird food sized bags) of dropped pears and apples that a friend was going to compost and offered to us for the piggies!!! (Oh...we got 2 more piggies last week..Hampshires...sweet little things). Now I'm home and off to do some canning. I've got 3 bushels of pears waiting to be done and today is the day which is perfect because it's nice and cool out. LOVE IT!

Yesterday I was on the road all day as I have been accepted into Geisinger's Patient and Family Advocacy Counsel. I begin work there at the end of the month.

Also, I signed up for a table at a local craft fair...guess I'd better get quilting!!!!

Busy. Busy. Happy. Busy.

Energy is a beautiful thing!!!

Happy Friday Everybody!!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Sep 13 - 11:04 AM

You'll have to tell us more about that Patient and Family Advocacy Council. I heard the name "Geisinger" in the news early in the week, a discussion to do with pro-active health care, I think, or with studies of results of treatments - my ears perked up because I thought that was your area.

Sounds like you'll be busy with the fruit and quilting for as long as you want to be.

I woke this morning (no alarm set) and am ready to head out the door to the office (we're getting a little rain, I'll let that pass first). I realized that when I attend the Friends of the Library meeting tonight as a guest only that much of the shift in work at work will be complete. Our Library second-in-command has told me a couple of times this week how she's heard such great things about all of the work I did - thanks, but what am I supposed to do with that? I'm no longer being asked to do that great work, I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing now. I'm occupying space and collecting a paycheck. For some that might sound ideal, but for someone who has had her plate full with tasks dedicated to a large goal, it's a benign vision of Hell. Literally. Just shoot me.

I am taking off Monday to give myself three full days to work in the garden. I have some goals and I'll make a list so I can see forward progress.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Sep 13 - 07:38 PM

Cleared a bunch of papers out of my office - for the time being they are in Special Collections so the university archivist can go through and pick out any back copies of things she needs. She'll give the papers back she doesn't need, and then I'll choose what to keep and what to recycle. The end of an era.

My desk is clean, that was a small goal for the day. I recycled and shredded and have more to do later. For now, it's looking pretty good, slightly lived in (I moved here just a few weeks ago).

Friday! Who cares if it is the 13th or any other date, it's Friday. :) I did the dishes at the house before I left so a clean kitchen will greet me.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 13 Sep 13 - 09:38 PM

Spent the morning at my seniors genealogy club. The man who has custody of the Senior Centre laptop forgot to bring it. Fortunately, I "just happened to have" my laptop in my car, so we were able to look at online resources as well as use it for "show and tell" items that members brought on jump drives.

Last evening I finished digging out the composted leaves, etc., from my driveway drain and wedged 2 x 10 boards under the angle iron that supports the grating on the top, in hopes that the grating will remain level with the driveway surface when driven over. I discovered that the iron grate in front of the door is rusting and falling apart. I have no idea where to look for another one. I'm assuming that the man who put our driveway in, 30 some years ago, had it custom made.   

Then I cut all the boards that I'd bought for the arbor. I made a couple of mistakes which I could have lived with but decided to pick up two more boards for the arbor on my way home and redo those pieces.   The pain is still strong from being on my feet so long yesterday, but I'm trying to convince myself to get the saw out again and do the cutting. This hot weather won't last much longer. I'd like to use a gallon of stain I've had for a few years but I forgot to take it with me this morning to get the paint shop to give it a good shaking. I will try to get to the paint store Saturday. I still need to drill all the holes and figure out how many screws and bolts to buy before I can paint the boards and put it together.
rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 12:47 AM

I have a work area beside my side door with cedar 2x2 boards spaced apart, in which the planks rest on an iron frame that once was a support for holding firewood (I ran the planks between the supports). I used carriage bolts to hold those lengthwise planks to cross bars of the same wood. It's constructed so the crossbars keep it from sliding off of the metal frame. I've been needing to finish drilling and putting the bolts on (some are in place, but other boards are just sitting there, waiting to be finished).

Supposed to be 100^o tomorrow. So disappointing - but I'm planning to send the next few mornings in the garden getting set for fall planting.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Suzy Sock Puppet
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 12:30 PM

This is a fun thread. I've enjoyed reading about what you are all up to.

I am up to my 4 year old grandson, adorable little chubby cheeked curly headed cupid. Very very smart and totally about music and dancing. Loves Cat Stevens. Today we'll be going to the pet store which features puppies, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, birds and fish. Unlike some pet stores, this one is all about ethical treatment of animals and all animals are healthy and the puppies very sociable. Then to Hoopla's next door (ice cream shop).

I'll probably get to the canning and jelly making in my next life.

Definitely after 50, the weight. It's like after 50, somebody starts throwing fat at you and it sticks, and to places it never stuck before. I actually have a bosom now. Where was it when I needed it?

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 12:50 PM

There is some movement on the eBay pages. That'll be one part of the weekend, finding and listing more items.

After reading rags' comments about the trellis I am reminded that a nice short-term project is finishing attaching the planks of my table. I'll get the drill and finish it this morning.

Weeding the garden is big on the list, and I have one more item - a neighbor offered me a tree in one of her flower beds, a Mexican Plum. I'm debating about where to put it - I think it would be best in the middle of an area where the dogs charge around - it may be in danger for a while, but I'd love to have a tree that will actually cast shade on my back door. The tree that's back there now isn't growing well and doesn't shade the door. A tree doesn't need to be large to do the job, and the Mexican plum is a small native tree. I may have to put a little fence around it to start, and I'll do a bare-root transplant so it will be a shallow and broad hole.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 12:57 PM

It's been pretty busy around here on non-decluttering issues, but this morning found a new home for the brass coat rack. I'm going to get it in the car and up the hill soonest.

Have to photograph the telescope and get it up on Craig's List.

Will go back into the guest room and clear out some more stuff.

Still waiting to find out what happened at the session last night after we left.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 03:00 PM

Suzy, the "fat sticking" plague over 50 is probably as much due to our jobs (sitting at computers all day) as to anything else. So here we have the problem and the solution in one place.

Linn, when you clear stuff out of the guest room, where does it go? That may be the next big reading adventure for us.

I have been fiddling with the new triple timer I ordered from Amazon. My favorite old West Bend finally kicked the bucket (simple operation, one AA battery to run it) and I needed something that would let me time more than one thing or set up a sequence of timers. Lux makes one that looked reasonable, it does have some mighty sturdy magnets on the back to keep it where I place it, but it isn't entirely intuitive. I've had to read the instructions through a couple of times just to get it set and to figure out how to run one timer at a time. I'd better use it a bit before I get to one of those time-sensitive cooking things where I can't stop to fiddle with the timer in the middle of stirring as fast as I can for exactly one minute before the next critical stage arrives.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 07:06 PM

The bench is finished - it didn't take long since most of the work was done. View 1 and View 2. It might be described as a "portmanteau" piece - it started as a steel firewood rack, but I don't use the fireplace. I didn't want to toss it if I could find another way to use it. I don't remember where the idea came from, but I decided I could use this for plants and outdoor projects if I used cedar boards and made sure there was a gap between them to avoid collecting water or holding dirt. I may stain the wood with some of the red stain like I used on a couple of other pieces here, and I may use rustoleum and paint the metal. Or I may leave it this way.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Sep 13 - 07:17 PM

LOL. When it goes out of the guest room it's on its way to being GONE -- to friends, Goodwill, sold. It'll be nice to find (and maybe be able to use again) the bed. And then, if I get the first floor room referred to as "THE Room" (and used mostly for storage, computer room, laundry el) REALLY cleaned out, I can get a single bed and move Tom in there (and get his commode out of the living room) and then maybe we can have the occasional overnight guest again. Micca visited last year but he couldn't stay overnight. Carole and Andrew will be in Portsmouth for the Maritime Festival in a couple weeks, but I had no place to put them up here.

I had a day where I feel as if I've not gotten anything done, but I actually have accomplished a fair amount.

I got Tom's PayPal and eBay accounts updated (and passwords and emails verified since he couldn't remember), got rid of the brass coat rack and three bags of blouses and dresses I'll never fit into, made decisions to sell a couple things (though didn't get the photos taken), cleaned up the kitchen, did a few other domestic chores, talked to my sister (and got sucked into the ongoing family crisis that I can't do anything about -- just means I'm more worried now and the worry has been brought a little further to the front of my consciousness), ordered another 25 of Tom's CDs... Sent the PMFF program off to the printer, but that was last night.

Ach. It still feels as if I didn't get anything accomplished today. Maybe I just need to eat some ice cream and go upstairs and read.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 01:20 AM

Linn, you're making great strides. An excellent goal right now is to empty that room and make a space there for Tom - I'm sure he'll enjoy having a room of his own instead of the front room, and I'm sure you'll both enjoy having overnight guests. That is a great thing to look forward to.

I made a lovely dinner of chicken fajitas with onion and hatch chiles (excavated from the freezer), and have some for leftovers tomorrow and Monday. Earlier I went through the house with a heavy plastic bag (one that the topsoil came in) and picked up all but one of the moth traps sitting around. I found a live moth on the wall last week so there are a few here still, but I got six traps from Amazon last week and I'll set up a couple of them to see what turns up. It has taken 9 months but I think I'm finally about finished with the pantry moths that came in on the hulled bird seed. (I'll never buy that again, or at least not bring it into the house.)

Dishes washed, laundry is in and programmed to wash early tomorrow morning. I have another load to do tomorrow. A friend is coming over to look for fossils in my creek and the kitchen is looking good so if he comes in for a late lunch I won't be embarrassed. That's assuming he can manage to leave the clay from the creek out in the yard. :) We had a small rain yesterday that may have made things a bit gooey out there.

Tomorrow is going to be somewhat cooler (though the entire week is still in the low-90s) so I'll be in the yard more. I picked peppers tonight and need to cut them up and freeze them tomorrow before picking more peppers tomorrow. And weeding more. I did some today, to get to the plants I was picking.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 02:58 AM

SRS,
The bench is very attractive and sure to be useful. What a great idea!

The arbor boards are drilled, stained and drying in the carport.

I'm completely worn out and headed for sleep, (I hope).

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Suzy Sock Puppet
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 08:36 AM

Maggie, that thing is neat! Stained, unstained, painted- whatever. Looks good. If you decide to do something more with it, post more pics.

I should sign up with photo bucket. I have sometimes wanted to post a photo or two but couldn't think how to do that on Mudcat. Problem solved.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 11:02 AM

I staggered the length of the boards because I thought it might look interesting but also because I figured I might find ways to hang things or drain things there. Now that the carriage bolts are all in place I can pick up the whole thing and move it to paint it.

I like Photobucket, but I find it doesn't work as well as it used to. I can't link so the photos only open on a blank page, it is set so it opens in a photobucket album now. If you look at Flickr they have a 2GB allowance for accounts and you can put in full-size images. Photobucket reduces the size for links if you have a free account (though I think you can download full-size). My Flickr account is mostly locked down so friends only can see it because the troll used to harvest people's flickr accounts to abuse in his spoof accounts in our names. I have to set photos to public over there, but this account is one I use for newsletters and posting to Mudcat so it is mostly open to be viewed but I don't put any family stuff in there.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 01:59 PM

And Tom will enjoy having a real bed (even if we're not sharing it. He would still like to think he'll be able to move back upstairs, but I'm far from certain that that would be a safe thing to do. The room downstairs, alas, is too small for our queen-sized bed (not to mention all the other bedroom stuff) so we can't go back to sharing a bed, but I'm sure he'll prefer some privacy.

I just pulled a bunch more stuff (alas, not BIG stuff) out of the guest room -- most of the stuff out of my "gift" suitcase that's going to be mailed to people and the rest go to Goodwill. Most of it acquired because it was nice gift material but not with anyone specific in mind. Well, we no longer have a big group of people we give Christmas or birthday gifts to and I'd rather just give somebody for no particular reason something I've found that I think they would like.

Threw out some smaller packaging materials that I'll probably never need.

Also got Tom's dressing(s) changed, ran the dishes through, and started photocopying documentation for applications, etc. Still have to empty and clean both cat litter boxes.

Last night after I went upstairs with a wee dram of the good stuff (flavorful so a little is very, very satisfying and enjoyable) and...didn't read or relax. Instead, I worked some more on Tom's freelance writing. That was probably more satisfying than anything else I'd done during the day. The end of that micro-project is in sight and, when indexed and distributed (in my archives), will add a lot to my archive project.

Friday at the session I got the name of the archivist at the Portsmouth library -- that is probably where my archives will end up eventually.

Oh, the funny high-pitched bell-like noise coming from the light switch in the guest room is probably because it's a rheostat and is over 35 years old and needs to be replaced as most of the others in the house have been. So I don't think it's immediately unsafe -- but I will get an electrician in here fairly soon. We've got a bunch of small stuff that needs to be done and Tom can no longer do it himself. (And I don't feel comfortable doing it.)

Have to call my brother tonight -- the situation in Milwaukee is getting a little more out of hand and my mother doesn't want my sister to call him. He's only a couple hours away. My sister just called because she needed to talk. I can't do a lot, but I've assured her I can listen any time she needs me.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 03:35 PM

It's been a busy day here. I am frustrated with the state of our home. The kitchen is crowded and this morning both sinks were full of dishes and overflowing onto the counter. The floor was gross, the bathroom floor was worse courtesy of one cat who likes to kick litter, the rug in the living room was all dog hair (poor Mags..she is shedding terribly despite constant brushing), Jeremiah had toys all over the place, laundry was piled up and I have 2 bushels of pears screaming to be canned. Pete usually makes breakfast on a Sunday but this morning his work load was huge so I begrudgingly made breakfast (he likes bacon on Sunday and I HATE handling that slimy stuff...and besides, it is the ONE meal during the entire week that I don't usually have to make). He asked what was wrong and I let it fly. I am just so overwhelmed with the non-stop mess. I was supposed to go with him and help today but instead I told him I was staying home to take care of the house. It's not that we aren't doing things on a daily basis to take care of stuff, it's just that there's been TOO MUCH going on lately. The kitchen is crazy because it is canning season. The dishwasher is always full of jars that have been washed and ready to use (and I hit the sanitize button when I begin peeling or washing fruits and veggies so I can have over 2 cases of jars that are HOT, clean and ready to be filled), the sink has seems to always have BIG bowls in it, etc. My counter tops are covered in jars, filled cases of jars are on the Hoosier and woodstove...it's just a little overwhelming around here.

So....today I might have stormed around a bit but all the dishes are done, almost all the laundry is done, the kitchen, hall and bathroom floors have been swept, the kitchen has had a good mopping, the rug has been vacuumed, the edges have been swept around, I got down on the floor to scrub under some tables, I cleaned out a few corners, kept Jeremiah in for a little bit to put all his toys away (oh yes I did and once he understood he could go back out when he was finished, he did a fantastic job), I rearranged some furniture, cleaned out a magazine basket, found the surface of our kitchen table, put all paper clutter in one box to be sorted tomorrow when I can spread out in a quiet house and some dusting has been done. The table beside my chair is looking beautiful, half the entertainment center has been dusted and I am taking a BREAK. Whew.

I'd like to tidy up the surfaces of the other table in the living room and the jelly cupboards and chest of drawers too before I scrub the toilet and tub. Jeremiah gets a bath and a haircut tonight too. If I have any oomph left, I want to sweep the upstairs hall and stairs...mop if I get a second wind and feel like Wonder Woman, otherwise that can wait too. ARG.

At least I am feeling better about the condition of our home. Bonus, I will have help with the remaining 2 bushels of pears tomorrow. THANK GOD because they are a job and a half this year!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 04:37 PM

I had a task for today, to dig up a small Mexican plum in a yard a few doors up and transplant it to my back yard. As soon as I had it out I headed to my back yard and dug the new spot to put in the tree and put up iron fence stakes and tall chicken wire to keep the dogs out. I did a "bare root" transplant, I cut the roots off about 18" away from the bole on either side. There wasn't much in the way of roots on this because I think it might actually have been a sucker off of a root, but I'll give it a try, and if this one doesn't take I'll buy a small one in a pot and do it again. This tree is small but is placed where I've needed one since I moved here, to block the afternoon sun from baking my back sliding glass door in the summer.

Linn, there are small elevators and lifts made that can run up and down stairways, but it might be dangerous if you have a blind user if he tries to use it by himself. I heard an add for them today.

When I came in from the garden (and the woods - I did some brush bashing because a friend was over here looking for fossils in the creek and I heard him stomping around and went to take a look) I put my clothes directly into the washer. No ticks, but I always check if I'm in the brush. The shower felt so good. I may have gotten a little sunburned out there.

Now for stuff in the house.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 04:45 PM

It took ages to get my post to go through (the 'cat is running very slow today), so I didn't see Michelle's exposition on a messy house. Sounds like you made great progress. I try, when I have the energy, to do dishes and counter cleaning the night before as a gift to my future self, but sometimes it just isn't possible. Don't beat up on yourself if it occasionally isn't your top priority.

That said, I don't have pears, I have peppers to deal with today. Lots of peppers to clean, slice, and freeze. It's gonna be messy in here tonight.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 09:06 PM

I'm not beating up on myself...it just gets overwhelming sometimes and I needed to vent. :) All is well!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 11:01 PM

In the country coughing non-stop in spite of being in the sunroom which I thought was a safe place. Weather is in the 60's or less but there was some solar gain today in spite of cloudy weather. Raining now - Again!

Spent about 5 hours last week responding to our very troubled family member as she finally responded to my message of several weeks ago. Then I responded and she responded and I responded and she has and I am too pooped - maybe tomorrow. At least there is a bit of dialogue. Other family members also trying to be supportive of her, so that is another dialogue.

My potter friend, Vanessa, was here much of Friday aft, and a terrific person she is. We threw pots and arranged some work spaces. Lots more to go. Need to work on a glazing area by end of this week. Possibly mix some more glazes.

Was out of house at 7:15 on Saturday to go to the Fair. Demo'd and sold pots, talked to lots of people, listened to great music (20 feet away!) and by 5 pm I felt as though I had done two days work. R arrived like the Lone Ranger to rescue me as I was staggeringly tired. I had everything packed and he loaded the vehicles and we went to our fav eatery for a pizza - but had a small fries to keep me alive until the pizza was ready. Then to the mill where I shivered in a state of collapse while he put the plastic back up to keep the pollution out. He had gotten some work done but it had required taking down the plastic. Bed felt SO good.

Lying in bed this morning watching the changing sky, I considered how I might glaze pots to look like that - mixed grays/white/mottled clouds, so beautiful. Throw in a bit of blue! Well, not soon. Too much else to do. Nice apple buckwheat pancakes for breakfast. Managed to unload the vehicles and shelve the pots I threw yesterday - an impressive number!- and cover with plastic as too tired to trim the bottoms today. Washed and hung two loads of laundry. Listed pots needing to be made this week and some possibles. Looked at pottery on Etsy and picked up some new thoughts.

Meanwhile, R has built most of the back wall for LR. It is all windows (I think they are cut down from French doors so very attractive). I shall need some very light drapes to hide the view into the storage area but let the light shine through to that area.

A cough suppressant might be in order if I am going to sleep tonight!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Sep 13 - 11:49 PM

Those pots sound like they'll be gorgeous if you work out the colors, Dorothy. Michelle, did you catch up with some of those pears today?

I finished all of the laundry. Including folding and putting away and ironing a few items. I also made a small batch of chicken soup, mostly stock with a little onion, carrot, orzo and seasonings. It isn't time for heavy soup yet, but I want to feel like autumn is nearby, so I'm doing some more cooking.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ragdall
Date: 16 Sep 13 - 04:20 AM

My husband wanted to pay a visit today to a restored/recreated gold rush town, 200 km from here. The sun was down behind the hill by the time we got home tonight, but I needed to get a coat of fresh stain on the arbor that has been in the yard for several years before the rain starts. I set up my Halogen lamp in the back yard and painted in its light. In daylight, we'll be able to see the quality of my work. Here's a shot in the dark.

rags

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Sep 13 - 11:24 AM

I was hoping there would be a few sets of glowing eyes in the background watching you take that photo, rags! ;-)

I have a couple of more things to list on eBay today. One item will sell, several have watchers. I radically re-priced a couple of things - I would really rather sell than donate them, even if I only break even, because I'd like the feedback score to keep going up. I'm still waiting for enough of them to re-activate that little table in my information area, then I'll list that chandelier.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Sep 13 - 05:32 PM

I tackled the vegetable garden, but rather than water and weed, I found I needed to head into the thicket with the weed whacker first. The grass is so tall and dense that I couldn't see what I was doing to try weeding. I worked my way around the standing crop and got about half of the garden on the far side of the driveway trimmed this afternoon and I'll finish the rest next weekend. I'm going to start my daily weed for X amount of time (usually about 15 minutes) and work my way around the various beds. That amount of time will deal with a couple of raised beds per session.

Waiting for a buyer to pay, fingers crossed that he isn't another one who clicked on "buy" instead of "watch." I think that happens more times than it should, and eBay needs to redesign the placement of the buttons on their auction pages. The auction finishes and people don't realize they actually agreed to buy something. I've had to turn in several unpaid sales this year.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Sep 13 - 11:56 PM

Last night I discovered that Poppy has a broken molar, that's why she has been slower eating her food. I took her to the vet this morning and we have an appointment for tomorrow. They'll knock her out, do a dental cleaning, and the doctor will pull the broken molar. I'll pick up canned food for her (or maybe she'd like some of her dry food soaked in chicken soup stock.) My pocketbook will take a hit.

An eBay parcel headed out in the mail today. That's a few square inches of space cleared out (and a few dollars in my pocket).

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Sep 13 - 12:53 PM

Off soon to take Tom to the Wound Center. Then we stop so he can get some blood work done on the way home. All of this has interrupted my trying to get an application finished and submitted. It seems no matter how organized our filed paperwork is, it is both frustrating and time-consuming to find all the documentation and figures needed for every application.

I'm feeling very over-extended again today.

Wish I could find time for either R&R or MY projects...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Sep 13 - 03:06 PM

Poppy is at the vet today. I have a pulled muscle in my back so after dropping her off I headed back here - I decided to stay home and take it a little easier. I was in pain at work yesterday, sitting and standing carefully, supporting my weight - the discomfort must have been apparent. A couple of days is usually all it takes for something like this to clear up. I hope!

Linn, try to make time for doing something for yourself. It will help you feel better about all of the rest of it. (This is from the "do as I say, not do as I do" school of thought.)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 18 Sep 13 - 03:39 PM

Might get up to 6C today. Dark and drear.

Time to get out the winter underwear and ready it to sew on for the winter.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Sep 13 - 04:34 PM

We're beginning to see color shifts - by fall the heat takes its toll on the trees and they look ready to drop their leaves at the first frost. But that is a long way off for us. Enjoy your autumn, Q!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 18 Sep 13 - 07:58 PM

Monday was still in recovery from Saturday but two loads of laundry washed, hung and taken down. Nice day but cool. Vanessa came and did pots and we did some organizing, put a plastic "wall" up to reduce pollution from other end and help keep our solar gain as we have a big window in the potting area. I stayed in the country hoping to et up and start throwing orders. I got up early ---- and did more organizing of glaze materials and searched fruitlessly for the notebooks with recipes. MAJOR problem as I really need to mix some new batches of standards and want to make more test glazes. So there went my morning and I decided I better hit the road and go to the pottery supply company for more white clay - some for Vanessa, potting plaster to make more drying areas for the dark and buff clays. Ordered some clay which they do not keep in stock. A good trip as I did not get lost either coming or going. Had the wit to ask how to get back to the hghwy - YAY, so much easier that way.

Got to house in time to walk to Canadian Tire for light bulbs. The air in the store made me so sick I had to go out and come back to finish the transaction. Walked home much more slowly terrifically upset. Took time to recover, eat, and be ready for Crystal to have her first pottery lesson. We talked a lot first, then she worked on learning- and I worked on helping her learn and that was the evening - 6:30 'til almost 10! Then fed R, watched the news and went to bed where I coughed most of the night. TIRED of being poisoned by toxic air.

No energy today. Thought I would throw pots. Nope. Took a hot bath in afternoon and now recovering. Missed all of a beautiful day. Hope for tomorrow which is supposed to be even better. Hope to go back to the country and get those pots made. Maybe even find the box with the glaze notebooks, she says desperately! It never occurred to me when we were moving stuff that it would be months before I could sort it out again.

Did I mention that the new-to-us kitchen cabinets are now sitting in the storage area. One is in the "K". Really nice to be able to put a few things in a cupboard! I know R is anxious to get them into the K but the wall is more essential to my health. Amazingly, the cabinets have an odour, but only when I open a door. Some kind of fragrance from ? Not too bad but I am still hoping it does not affect me. The CT episode is terrifically bad; it has never affected me that badly before.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Sep 13 - 12:22 AM

Poppy came home from the vet a rather unhappy pooch. Having a large molar pulled is a big deal in a relatively small mouth. The other dogs gave her a cursory sniff and could tell that she'd been at the vets. They all know that smell, have all at some time worn a boot or a cone or a bandage.

I finished filling out a form that is apparently required for telecommuting. All of these years in the administration office and no one ever asked for one. I had to draw a diagram of my office at home, ferchristsakes! But I made it so I can print out a copy and fill out a couple of lines as needed and turn it it.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Sep 13 - 12:57 PM

I pulled a muscle in my back a couple of days ago when I was using the weed whacker in the yard. It's down to a few random twinges now, but it will serve as a reminder to take it a bit easy this weekend. We may get rain on Friday and if so, this weekend will be prime weeding weather. Hopefully I'll be back in weeding form by then.

I imagine that the off-gas from tires and other automotive stuff in the Canada Tire is pretty powerful. I don't have your sensitivities, but there are some stores I have to hold my breath in - like going past the perfume counter in department stores, or walking near the pesticide shelves in grocery stores.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Sep 13 - 10:01 PM

Darn! Three times messages were lost. I'll try again later.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Sep 13 - 12:36 PM

Maggie, after losing long posts a coupla too many times, I've made it a point to always copy before hitting "Submit Message" -- then checking to make sure it "took".

Only time I now lose messages is when I forget. (Often enough, alas.)

Had to dress Tom's ankle wounds again this morning because they'd come undone (VNA did yesterday) overnight, then fight to get the compression stocking on without hurting him. (Yes, I use the plastic bag trick.)

Heard a mild thud last night around midnight -- glad I went to investigate (it didn't sound major) because Tom had fallen out of bed. Got him back in without too much difficulty.

He's got a busy medical schedule next week -- his PCP on Monday, a CT scan on Tuesday followed by the Wound Clinic and his vascular doctor, and the infectious diseases doctor on Wednesday (I think because of the possibility of the wound(s) causing a blood infection -- Tom has replacement heart parts). (This past week he "just" had an ultrasound, a consult with his vascular doc and a visit to the Wound Center.) And, of course, this week is the lead in to next weekend's Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival. I've still got to produce the badges, but I picked up the programs yesterday. Today on the way to the monthly sea music sing, I can drop some off at The Port Inn. (I think I'm tired already.)

And he's put it off long enough -- Oct. 1 is the deadline for his Bates College bio, so it's GOING TO GET DONE by tomorrow. No more excuses.

Glad Mudcat is back.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 21 Sep 13 - 04:45 PM

Has mudcat become downbeat"

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Sep 13 - 09:50 PM

I usually save them also, but when I don't, I can usually use the back button, and that wasn't working this time. I tried to post that I'd heard from a friend in my old office that a co-worker of ours who is dying of cancer has decided it is time to find homes for her animals. They are her family, so you know how difficult this decision was for her. I'd told my friend Susie about this situation back in 2012 when she was recovering from her injuries and wanting to get a larger but gentler dog as a pet - she misses Zeke, but knows he is too strong for her. My friend at work has been ill with inoperable cervical cancer since the spring of 2011.

Today Susie and I went to meet the two dogs she will be adopting. My co-worker is in hospice and her parents are here to look after her and the pets. We went to the house for introductions to all of the pets. All but these two dogs have been spoken for. They're sweet and fat (no exercise in the last year or so). From there we went to the hospice so my coworker could meet Susie, as she'd asked yesterday, but I don't think she remembered and we didn't spell it out.

Death from cancer is so cruel.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Sep 13 - 10:55 AM

(Brag alert)

The cleaning I was able to do before the annual MIL visit,

plus

the organizing I had been doing post-op,

resulted in a great payoff this AM with thyroid energy:

I did a whole rearrange of the 1/3 of the LR that was Sick Bay and then Doggie Bay*,

and put a "temp" closet in there for the newer clothes I have to see in order to remember to WEAR them.


I no longer hold nice clothes for "ultra-special" occasions for fear they will wear out in the washer before I can afford new-- because since the surgery I can wear so much of the older (altered) stuff that for a LONG time I will only need to afford gorgeous shells and accessories to complete outfits... for which I have a surplus of pretty good stuff as the "bones" of the outfits. (I have also learned enuf from my seamstress to do most of my own alts to update items that may no longer be quite current enough.)

To do this without upsetting Hardi's sense of our shared space, I moved a desk we both like to the corner where he will like looking at it (staged with a lamp, etc. he loves), and put the hanging rack behind our line of sight. (I cleaned each area before setting in the replacement pieces too!!!) When he's home it's dark, and so that corner will visually read as a dark corner, but when I'm home it's daytime; I will enjoy the sunny window next to it where there is LIGHT my "real" closet has never had and which can never get more than the portable LED's that let me peer into it.

I'll still USE that supercloset, but it overflowed. If ya have stuff, ya gotta store it right to take care of it-- it just needed a younger sister. So I gave it one! (Thanks, Genevieve!)

I'll hang his favorite dark-striped drapes on the end he can see... and BOOM-- two happy spouses, cuz he LOVES it when his woman dresses up for him and now I CAN! :~)

I bet he will not even notice the changes till I point them out... the visual world is not his main sense.

Under the desk, instead of the DR chair I had borrowed-- which I just put back-- I set a smaller, round stool I occasionally use to sit and clean or dust (or shower), where it is easily used for the cards which that desk holds for writing, stamping, and mailing. In the middle of the sunny window is a pink wingback chair we both love, for studying, with a painted wooden box next to it for the book of the day, pens, etc., and the portable workshop/office bag holding the workshop of the season (which will go for leading a workshop in early October).

I also cleaned and rearranged extension cords to feed all the lighting for these little spaces, as well as Hardi's needed chargers, etc., and since it was I who climbed the stairs to get the rack and I who did ALL this work, Hardi will be proud and not upset about the changes.

Last but not least, above the rack hangs my giant crucifix, because those are ministry clothes hanging below it, and ministry stuff I will resume studying in this space, and ministry stuff involved with the cards... and the dog, too!

~Susan
:~) I did warn you that it was gonna be a full-out brag! :~)

*Doggie Bay is a large cushy pad for Dog Faulkner, who needs it for what might be his last year, and it's right back in place after bringing in all of the above.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Sep 13 - 01:08 PM

Seems like you just got Faulkner, but it has been a while, hasn't it? Sounds like you've made a lot of progress with visual appeal of the stuff in storage, Susan.

I did a couple of small things so far this weekend. I finally ironed one of the attractive 2-yard pieces of cloth I brought home to hang on the wall and tacked it over the large frame thing I brought home last summer. It's a frame with a solid front that has a polyester sort of canvas mounted to it, used for setting up a museum display. The last exhibit stuff was pulled off and this was deemed excess when we had to move out of our floor of the library for renovations. I've put this up, suspended from a hook on the picture rail in my living room (yes, I have one, and I love it and need to use it more.) I have a couple of small uplights for spotting art on the walls and I'm going to see if I can turn this in to a zone in the living room with a reading chair and lamp below the art, and the spot on the art to make it pop off the wall.

Lovely weather this weekend. I'm headed out into the yard for a while.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 22 Sep 13 - 01:21 PM

In the interests of developing decluttered menus for a decluttered kitchen, I am developing recipes that will meet stringency tests.

Hamoodles-

One can flaked ham (or equivalent amount of Spam- Spamoodles)
one package dried noodles

Heat about 2 cups water in a pot. Mash the flaked ham or Spam and add to the water. Heat to boiling and add the package of noodles. Stir.
After 3 minutes, mix and serve.
Enjoy!



(Apologies to the person who is putting up canned peaches- a dish of them would remove the lingering taste(?) of the Hamoodles)

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Sep 13 - 02:42 PM

Q, on occasion I cut up some veggies (onion, broccoli, carrot, celery, etc.) and do a quick stir-fry (use a little Hoisin sauce or a dab of soy sauce and a little sesame oil) then take my cooked ramen noodles and add them to the stir fry pan and let them mingle for a minute or so. You could add cut up chicken, pork chop, or a bit of steak to this.

I put screws in the wall in my pantry and attached a power strip so it won't fall off of the small shelf I was using. And I must tame those wires soon. That's the next pantry project.

The kitchen sink is clean, a load of laundry is in, and after that, I'll run the dishwasher. Since I bought a new set of silicon sink mats earlier this year I regularly put them in now (it keeps them in pretty good shape - the last set was fairly stained) and the dog dishes and any other oddball things that get an occasional wash that will fit. When the laundry is finished it goes on the line (I haven't done that for a while - laziness, I suppose) and another load goes in. Then a trip to the feed store for dog food and bedding plants for the fall broccoli and such. Maybe they'll have onion sets, otherwise I'll start seeds.

Half a chicken is defrosting and I have some peppers and eggplants to grill, so I'll crank up the LP barbecue later on. Mmmmmmm!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Sep 13 - 07:17 PM

One eBay item hasn't sold for several listings so I pulled it from the stack and it went into the Goodwill bag. And since that bag was full it was dropped off this afternoon. I took a few photos and will print up a description of the items, estimate the donations based upon typical eBay or garage sale prices, and put it in my file for income taxes.

It's lovely weather right now. I have to do some trimming in the yard and then I'll be doing that grilling this evening. Also making a loaf of bread. The good thing about the cooler weather is that I feel more like cooking again. For lunch I sliced up a couple of bell peppers, a jalapeno, some onion, then put that into a cheese and ham quesadilla, topped with some of my home made guacamole. Mmmmmm!

Laundry is underway, I hung some out in the yard (the line needs cleaning so I went over some of it and put out the sheets.)

I have more discarded 3-ring binders from work. Only a few large (3-4) inch ones, several 2" and some interesting relatively slim ones. I know Linn is interested in some - enough to cram into three cloth grocery bags. Enough for a couple of shipping boxes. Anyone other than Linn want some? These are heavy-duty library type binders, not your lightweight plastic ones.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Sep 13 - 08:05 PM

VNA came late morning -- not Tom's usual nurse, so had to explain everything to her.

Baked a fine loaf of banana/nut/sour cream/coconut bread and that's what we had for "lunch" (after a very late breakfast). Also got some pillows and a bit of other laundry washed and dried.

But the MAJOR accomplishment was getting Tom's bio written for his Bates College 50th Reunion class book which needed to be submitted by October 1st. I'm still working on getting a higher res photo for the one I'd like to use, but I'll get everything sent off sometime this week before the deadline.

Oh, and I emptied the kitchen compost.

Not bad for a "goof off" day...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Sep 13 - 01:07 AM

Kitchen cleaned, laundry finished (the last load in drying now), loaf of bread made. I need to get some lemons tomorrow so I can use the eggplants I roasted on the grill and make some more babaghanouj. I also grilled some peppers and half a chicken, for several meals this week.

Poppy has a large swollen lump on her face, really pronounced this evening. I think she has an infection in the spot where her tooth came out, so I'll call in the morning and see if they want to look at her. It came up pretty fast during the day today. She may have gotten some food into the socket.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Sep 13 - 07:23 PM

The swelling on Poppy's face is okay, according to the vet. Part of the process, and the fact that it turned up four days after the surgery isn't a problem. That's good to know! It doesn't seem to be painful at all.

Large box out of the house today with one more eBay sale. I didn't make any money in it, but may get another feedback score and I have a tripping hazard out of the house.

It's lovely weather today, we're getting back to dog walking this evening, after I take the push mower out front and make a few passes in areas where grass is growing.

Michelle, how is all of the canning going? Do you do any pressure canning of things like sauces or meats?

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: ranger1
Date: 23 Sep 13 - 07:48 PM

Went through three of the dozen remaining boxes stacked in the corners of the cottage today. Two are emptied, one is now being used for items that are no longer wanted nor needed. When it's full, it will go to either Freeport Community Services for their thrift shop or to Good Will. I may have to split the stuff into two boxes, as I don't know if FCS will take the electronics, but I know Good Will does.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 23 Sep 13 - 09:48 PM

Canning season is upon us! I have been busy canning, canning, canning. Today I cut up 60 pounds of tomatoes for sauce. A friend picked all the peaches off her tree and called me to come get them...there's at least a bushel of them. I am finished with the pears we picked at the orchard but our pears are now ready to be picked. And then there's apple season and winter squash season. :) I will be using the pressure canner for the winter squash if I don't freeze it. I also have the dehydrator going with herbs and am going to try some peaches as well. Our strawberry plants are still producing and we LOVE dehydrated strawberries in our oatmeal..OMG YUM!

I also attended a sit and sew on Saturday and am working on a Disappearing Sashed 9 Patch..it's a new to me pattern...a little tedious but it's going well.

My Maggie had a seizure today....scared me pretty good.

Weigh in today...down 4.8 pounds this week.

I'm beat.

Night All!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Sep 13 - 11:42 PM

All of that work in the kitchen on your feet is bound to knock the weight off of you. I hope your pooch is doing okay. Has she ever had something like this before? Did you know what to do?

I mowed a little bit of grass with the push mower. Works okay on Bermuda, but over on the St. Augustine side of the yard it's almost impossible to push through it. I pulled a bunch of weeds and some of the non-producing cantaloupe vines out of the garden, it's a big heap on the compost now.

At the library the rest of the week. I'll see if I can get some stuff done in the evenings.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Sep 13 - 11:52 AM

Taking a very heavy brick-sized battery to work to recycle in the e-waste bin. This was inside the battery backup case (itself very heavy!) that I shipped yesterday after selling it on eBay. I provided information in the auction about the battery and where to find a replacement. This one no longer holds a charge. I decided it wasn't worth holding onto this backup and putting in a new battery. Fingers crossed I don't soon discover a need for it!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Sep 13 - 03:27 PM

Well, the brick-sized battery is here, but still in the pickup. Maybe I'll remember to lug it up to the library tomorrow.

My office desk is uncluttered right now. Don't look at the shelves behind me, though. My office at home is kind of a catchall at the moment, probably the job I'll do on the first rainy weekend.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Sep 13 - 10:35 AM

Late night at the library last night, I'm dragging my feet a little this morning leaving the house. Today is one of the lectures I was in the process of setting up when I had to hand all of the plans over to other people. They have been slow to promote, not spreading the news as far as I usually did. No newsletters sent out to library constituents who used to look for news of public events in my newsletters. I'm going to attend because I love these talks, but it is the part of letting go that is is most wrenching. I loved being able to research speakers and invite them to do these lectures.

It's time to update my CV.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Sep 13 - 03:02 PM

And the battery made a substantial "thump" going into the bin.

Tons of peppers to cut up and freeze this evening and lots more out in the garden to pick. I'll have to set aside an hour or so a day to address the crops out there now so it doesn't all go to waste (or seed, and end up as volunteers all over the garden next year.) I accidentally pulled out the vine of one cantaloupe that was still small out there - I'll leave it hanging on the tomato cage where it started and see if it ripens by itself.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Sep 13 - 10:27 AM

Woke up to an incredible article in the Spotlight section of the Portsmouth Herald --
PMFF / Curmudgeon Article

Gotta finish the performer/staff/volunteer badges for the festival today.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 Sep 13 - 12:09 PM

What a great article, and no wonder you're trying to keep all of the records of this activity in order.

Last night I shredded the old contents from the hanging files in the box I use most often. If something isn't very active but I need to keep some record then that file goes in the a drawer cabinet, the active accounts are in a large plastic file bin with an attached lid (half folds over from each side). The theory is if I had to leave the house in a hurry this would be the bin to grab to have most of my current papers. Anyway, it is a little lighter now. The bag of shreds was put at the curb (shreds made somewhat gooey by the addition of water and a few spritzes of cooking oil to the bad contents - I don't want someone tempted to piece it together again.)

All dogs in the yard are happy and back to eating the the usual dry food. I did cook some broccoli to add to the bowl - I often give them raw veggies but they adore it cooked, because then it is "people food."

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 26 Sep 13 - 07:52 PM

I have little recollection of this last week. The last few days - I did manage to do a laundry yesterday which is still on the line. Today I trimmed two bowls and went back to bed. It is good to be able to look on here and see that I was functional a week ago! Did go to Thurs writers group and it was good. Too tired for Cafe on Friday. Don't know what triggered this - trip to the toxic store? Toxic building? Friend came by a few days ago and put plastic across the remaining opening - until has time to put the door in. Nice weather but no energy. I remember: Washed and cut my hair, the latter months overdue, had supper and a good visit with friends, took 3 dead bumper stickers off the car with goop-off, put one on, talked with VAnessa about her new job, Today: trimmed two bowls and went back to bed. Not so great for most of a week. Now I'm going back to bed again.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Sep 13 - 01:43 AM

Nothing much to report. It was a busy day at work and I took it easy this evening, did some plant ID on another web site.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 27 Sep 13 - 11:56 AM

Busy with chores on this beautiful fall day. Aside from the normal morning routine, dishes are done, laundry is started, kitchen floor is swept and mopped, living room is picked up and vacuumed, most of the dusting is done, Jeremiah's summer clothes have been tucked away (with the exception of 3 outfits) for next year's yard sale (as they surely will not fit him next year) and now I'm taking a coffee break. It's supposed to be GORGEOUS this weekend and I'm hoping to be outside for most of it working in the yard, tucking some plants in for the winter, planting bulbs for the spring, taking a truckload of stuff to the dump, etc. :)

Michelle

PS. There is a Featherweight maintenance class tucked into this weekend as well.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 27 Sep 13 - 01:46 PM

Over in the Downsizing Tips thread, the UKers posted a thing they do there that inspired me to adapt my upcoming Porch Sale into a Yard Sale. The sale isn't any bigger than planned, but due to not being able to count on a warm day, the lack of road-visibility for a Porch Sale sign at 65mph, and needing to hang out warmly indoors if needed, yet be on the spot to tend the tables-- I'm moving the whole thing out back to the patch of yard where our pop-up camper is still sitting, unfolded-down, which has a canopy I can use for my tables if it's rainy, or if it's NOT rainy.... wait for it.... the display space will be the trash-hauling trailer Hardi bought! What does not sell (or FreeCycle the next day) goes off the property forthwith!!!

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Sep 13 - 01:48 PM

Working at home today makes the weekend feel a little longer and saves me the cost of the commute for one day.

More papers to deal with this evening - I have four stacks of paper on the floor to file or shred. I'm working on accumulating the things I brought from work (in particular, photos in files) so I can take them back and enter them into the Special Collections archive. I'm making a push to get many of my photos from 16+ years into the collection.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Sep 13 - 07:42 PM

I am doing some close screen work today - processing photos in Photoshop - so I take a break to refocus my eyes, move around, etc. I worked on one of the piles on the floor. A small amount went in the shredder, a portion of it went into the paper recycle, and I'm afraid most of it spread out into smaller piles. Not the look I was hoping for. I think next I need to file a couple of those piles and try again.

BTW: TGIF!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Sep 13 - 11:54 AM

I think we lost a post or two since last night. I know I put up something after this.

I can tell it's allergy season, my eyes are kind of fuzzy and crusty this morning, the overnight mucus buildup in a pollen or mildew-filled season. We're supposed to have rain this weekend and that should help considerably.

More eBay this weekend, more filing and shredding. I think I found a good box for some binders (a heads' up for Linn).

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Sep 13 - 09:47 PM

I realized why the allergies - I ran out of my antihistamine two days ago. I am waiting till Oct 1 to renew a membership at Sam's Club where I get the stuff I use in a bulk package. It's Benedryl and Sudafed for a few days.

I started doing some mending today - the first project was the lining of a nice purse. After losing 30 pounds I can wear some of the things again that have been languishing in the mending basket, so it's time to go ahead and make those small repairs.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Sep 13 - 03:49 PM

Royalty check hit the bank yesterday, good timing - I headed to Sam's Club to get my Zyrtec knockoff - I thought the bill would be big because I thought my membership expired earlier this summer. I guess not, it was just the purchase. And for those who use this stuff - OTC Zyrtec is still very expensive. The Walgreen's brand version is $45 for a bottle of 300. Sam's Club has 400 for $16. Since Zeke and I are both using it now, I'll save my membership just by buying two bottles of this alone.

Working on various things today, I'll report in later if I actually finish any of them. My first chore for the day is finished, though - I took the dogs for a long walk up through the neighborhood. We haven't been out much this summer, and I blame myself for that, I could have gotten up early enough to walk them in the mornings when it's cool. Blame stress for making easy decisions less easy. I'm working on it. Anyway, the dogs loved it and they were so mellow by the time we got home after our 1.1 mile walk.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 29 Sep 13 - 09:06 PM

I spent time working on my quilt today...it's one more step towards being complete. Aside from squaring things up, I'm just steps from having the quilt top complete and ready to send to the long arm. YAY! Tomorrow the fun part begins!

I packed up another bag of clothes that Jeremiah has outgrown. Tomorrow I hope to get some of the baby toys packed up while he is at school. I almost feel guilty doing that...seems kind of sneaky but they are toys he no longer plays with and likely will not even notice that they are missing.

Weight holding steady this week as to be expected after such a large drop last week. :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 30 Sep 13 - 09:36 AM

Well, the only de-cluttering I have managed is clearing gallons of gunk from my lungs. Thank you, Pau d'Arco, vit C and heat on chest and a warm bed. Thurs and Fri were lost and who cares, Sat I managed to get out to Branches and Roots, music and so forth, but no way I could demo. People kept telling me to sit down so I went home and back to bed. I think people were having fun. But I got through about 4 hours with only one coughing fit.

Sunday, well enough to make breakfast-YAY! Muddled through rest of day, sitting outside in sun for some of it. Washed bedding - the machine did - hung it, took it down and remade bed. Double yay! Having decided this building is just too toxic, I walk outside to the closest door to laundry, put on respirator to go in and load/unload, then carry the wet laundry out that door, take off respirator, and carry laundry about 200 feet around the building to the clothesline and hang it.

Sat in the sun for a while and talked with the fellow who is now developing a tree nursery in the upper field. He gets to use the land - which we are told is about 2-3 feet deep in river rock! - and the tons of wood chips in exchange for helping with landscaping. He marches to his own drummer, planting what and where he feels like it - "But it can be moved"! He has about 1500 trees out there, he says, in pots and in the ground. Anything is better but whether anything will thrive without more soil is dubious. It keeps him occupied and he is a presence, reasonably intelligent and needs someone to talk with. The river rock was put all over the property so trucks would not get stuck in the mud. Even weeds do not grow well on a lot of it.

R worked like a fiend, at least 12 hour days, and has finally closed in the living space. The air cleaner we thought would be for here, gave off a dreadful odour when we turned it on so I need to order new filter or new air cleaner. I asked/ordered/ insisted (furious) him to FIRST remove the rotten wood they pulled out of the roof - and left lying just outside the living space. He said he had and then I looked through the window of the beautiful new door yesterday and "What's that?"   He had stacked some of it neatly on a pallet but "forgot" to remove it. Gone now. "It's only rotten. not moldy."

Anyway, we now have a nice size LR which needs clean floors, hopefully wood someday soon, and a paint job. The long back wall, closing it off from the storage area, is all windows so I need to find some light weight fabric, white, translucent for drapes so we do not look at all the STUFF back there. The purpose was to provide light for back there. It looks really neat but not suitable for hanging pictures!

Really liked Susan's concept of yard sale! My goal for today is to wash my hair and make a dent in the dish washing. Nothing left to use! And find a way to store the bedding in the LR so I can put it away during the day and have the nice futon in sofa mode, in case anyone pays a call.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Sep 13 - 05:42 PM

I'm going to be setting up the Secret Santa thread in the next couple of days (I put an announcement on another existing thread just now). I wonder if those of us who post here most often might want to work on a special project. I'm thinking of a red-headed grandson who might like a nice reminder of his Mudcat aunties.

This morning the dogs and I were out walking again. I'll probably switch to walking them before dinner, it's easier to manage after work than before. But it is so nice to be out walking again. We saw our friend Benji, a basenji mix who, when he hears us walking by, sets up a doggie caterwauling until we walk over to his gate and give him a treat. Sometimes his owners are out, sometimes not. I imagine the entire block knows when my dogs walk past Benji's yard.

A friend on campus has a little Halloween tableau on her desktop - cute - I realized that I had the most fun with Halloween when the kids were small and we were making costumes for them. That was the best collaborative time, when they said what they wanted to be and we figured out how to make the costume. I imaging Michelle is doing that these days. I have photos around here of my son as a scarecrow and of my daughter as a Princess Jasmine sort of character. I didn't get photos every year, but we always had fun. Now I manage to find some autumn themed items to set out to give the feel. What are all of you doing for the changing season?

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 10:33 AM

I'm leaving this up for the next month (at least) also - we're not posting quite as much as we were a while back and this gives a little more history in one place.

I was up very early this morning, I couldn't sleep, and I thought I'd get up to work. But I took a couple of aspirin and those took care of what ailed me and I went back to bed - and nearly overslept. ;-)

This week is supposed to have some cooler weather, into the mid-80s. For here in October, it'll be nice. I think the energy will kick in one of these days soon, and I have gotten back to dog walking in anticipation of a generalized higher activity level.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 01:08 PM

I need to vent a bit, but I'll combine it with a plea for suggestions as to how to cope with the situation.

I would think that since Tom can't SEE he would figure out that he needs to have a place for things and to always put them back in that place so he can find them without visual cues.

Not that he ever did that when he COULD see -- and then when he couldn't find his keys or his hammer or the green-handled pliers or a particular piece of paper it became a crisis and MY responsibility to find it. The tools were always in the last place he used them, the keys in one of several usual spots...

But now it's a daily thing. And today it's his 2 medicine bottles of metoprolol, one almost empty, the other just refilled. And he asked me to identify the two pill containers on his side of the table...and one he had taken out of the basket on MY side of the table, which is why I can never find it when he asks for that med. (And the other was completely different.)

But it's EVERY DAY and sometimes several times during the day that I have to stop everything and find something that actually HAS a place, but he's moved it and can't find it.

Today I can't find the two bottles. He says he hasn't seen them for a couple weeks. They aren't on the floor or behind the bookcase or under the table or WHERE THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO BE!!!!

I've been nibbled to death by ducks lately. I don't cry very easily, but I could just sit down and cry right now, but it's too ridiculous. And I didn't yell at him. I DID suggest that this is the reason I keep suggesting that he keep things in the place where they belong so he CAN find things.

Thank you for listening (or at least just giving me the opportunity to write this out). It just can be so. damned. frustrating. He's an intelligent man; why can't he figure out basic things like this?

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 01:40 PM

Found it. In the basket next to his bed where he keeps his flashlight, his glasses, a pain pill in case it's needed overnight.

This is a med he definitely does NOT need overnight. There is no reason for it to have been in that basket -- ever.

Not to mention NOT being where it IS supposed to be. Sigh.

It'll be okay. Life will go on. I'll not feel ready to fall apart when faced with a really minor crisis.

Now I can get on with what I had intended to do on one of the few days where no one is coming here and we don't have to be anyplace else -- make a batch of chicken stock for the freezer, clean out the fridge, get some overdue paperwork in the mail, ship off some CDs to a long lost friend...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Jeri
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 01:42 PM

He's got a limited range, so there aren't that many places he could have put the bottles. If it's not where he's been, blame Rufus and check under the couch (or anywhere the cat might have batted the bottles).

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Jeri
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 01:46 PM

I'm slow. Blame Rufie anyway.

I'm having a guy come tomorrow to start the process of getting a screen/storm door to replace the messed up one in the basement. At least something is going to improve here.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 05:36 PM

How much vision does he have? Can he see bright patches of color if he moves it around (like to peripheral vision or where he detects some light, etc.) so you can wrap the bottles with neon-colored stickers (having made note of the pharmacy instructions, or use an old empty bottle) and color code the neon. Orange for one pill, yellow for another, green for yet another?

This page has bright labels of various sorts and if you bought full sheet labels so you can cut them to size, that would be a starting place.

Does that help? There are also lots of gimmicks for using electronic tags with smart phone so you can detect them when they go missing. Put tags on the bottles, keys, etc.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 07:32 PM

No, I've made large type labels for him or help him put pills into a coded container. It's just that he hasn't yet figured out that if he has a "place" for everything and, if he moves it, he puts it back in that place, life will be a lot easier for him...and a lot less stressful for me.

He never put things away when he could see, but you would think it would make sense to him now that he CAN'T see.

It's been a frustrating day. And he's been "one more thing"ing me again today. (He totally wore me out with that yesterday. We went to Newick's, a seafood spot overlooking Great Bay, for his birthday $10 off -- discovering they had a wheelchair available made getting back into the car a LOT easier -- then we had to go and pick up his orthotics -- where I had to borrow the wheelchair from Seacoast Orthopedics next door and get him upstairs in the elevator and through a bunch of doors 1/2 inch wider than the wheelchair. Then when I thought we could just go home, he had another physically demanding "one more thing" for me.) And this all is after a weekend where he pretty much wore me out, kept me from sleeping, woke me at 5:30 after getting to bed around midnight, decided I needed to take him home, managed to fall on the deck requiring a 911 call for a lift assist...

I haven't had any recovery time. My stress level is high and my patience is short. I keep trying to make things easier for Tom while he seems to go out of his way to not only complicate his own life, but to make more work for me.

Anyway, I had high hopes for today. For the first time in well over a week, we didn't have to go anyplace. I really wanted to get a good start on cleaning out this room (so I can get a bed into it for Tom). Sigh. My major victory was getting all the leftovers of a large batch of fried rice I just made into the fridge AND found room for an extra large batch of chicken stock that I made this afternoon. (I'll divvy it up into 2 cup portions and freeze it tomorrow.) Oh, and I composted some fridge stuff that should have been cleaned out a few weeks ago. And I almost finished up getting Tom's freelance articles into page protectors. (I'm running out of page protectors...again.) And I got a couple things packaged up and mailed at the post office and I just put the dishes through. The stockpot and pans and strainer from making the fried rice and chicken stock will have to wait until tomorrow. As will actually taking out the kitchen compost.

I'm going to eat some dolce de leche ice cream then go upstairs to read and get in a better state of mind. I'm not yet enjoying a sense of accomplishment, alas.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 07:42 PM

I also would have enjoyed just spending a little time outside on this glorious fall day. I did get to drive to the post office and then up to the Circle to get dry vermouth for the chicken stock. There were a couple wild turkeys contemplating road crossing when I was almost home.

Yesterday was gorgeous, too, and I'd thought about reading on the deck when we got home, but I was so wiped out, I went upstairs and read until I had to make dinner.

Our schedule and to-do list lately has been more complicated and busier than when I was working.

We see Tom's vascular doc on Thursday to hear what Tom's cardiologist had to say about his proposed surgery. We won't be seeing Tom's cardiologist for two weeks unless there's a cancellation that we can take advantage of. But since his cardiologist doesn't think there's any hurry, it probably means he thinks the surgery is too risky. But doing nothing is risky, too, and we need to find out more about what those risks are.

Linn

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 08:44 PM

For your Secret Santa this year you just need the actual Santa him or herself to come and help out around the house - given an 8-hour day to yourself one day a week you could probably get a lot of other things done, or do nothing, as it suits you.

Strange day at work. Odd stuff. A friend from work is near death in hospice, which is part of it. Unusual behavior by one person walking through the office unexpectedly, like she was looking for something.

I found a good-sized box for notebooks. I don't have any page protectors, though I did at one time and gave them to a coworker. I could send a three-hole punch. :-/

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 09:44 PM

Thanks, Maggie. I've got a 3-hole punch.

An hour or so of reading (I've just read the first two Anne of Green Gables books -- for the first time, believe it or not -- and I'm now reading "Anne's House of Dreams" -- 3 books in 1 volume, soon to go to the library sale) and a small snifter of Pusser's rum works wonders. (And I got a little closer to being finished with the freelance articles)

I'm usually pretty good about snagging time for myself, but it's been pretty hectic lately with deadlines for everything and a lot of demands (other than Tom's) also being made on me. I haven't looked at next week's calendar yet, but I hope it's fairly open...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Oct 13 - 09:10 PM

It's the time of year for flu shot and to start pulling out blankets and sweaters. There will be occasional days for them in the next few weeks, but it probably won't be until November when they really need to be put into play.

Didn't get much of my own stuff done today.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Oct 13 - 12:33 AM

Progress this evening - I decluttered the bank account considerably. I knocked off one big bill, paid down the rest.

Up in the morning to make banana bread to take to work (for the few folks who are still there - one has pneumonia, the others have colds and such. I am going to get my flu shot first thing in the morning.)

I must call a plumber. My water bill was higher than it should have been - it's that front outside faucet drip getting out of control. I need the faucet changed out so I can change the washer myself when it needs it. The one there now needs a special tool to open. I'll see if I can get that taken care of on Friday.

A few other updates have been taken care of. I changed the fridge water filter that went a while longer than usual this time. I also picked up a replacement cartridge for my laser printer. The name-brand one is about $175 but I bought a knock-off for $43, same high-capacity size. These were paid for with a rebate from a computer purchase last summer.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Oct 13 - 09:52 AM

Well, yesterday the chimney and the woodstove connection got cleaned. Not only one more thing checked off the list, but now I can feel safe if I need to burn wood for heat before fuel assistance kicks in. (And if we lose power, which we often do even if it isn't a particularly hard winter -- and predictions for this winter are below average cold and above average snowfall.)

And I got a few piddly things done around here, although I DIDN'T get the chicken stock I made on Tuesday measured out into zip-locs and into the freezer. Maybe this morning...

Did a load of laundry first thing so Tom will have clean pants for a doctor's appointment this afternoon. Just threw stuff into the dryer and found, despite extra care in finding all the wayward Kleenex in Tom's multiple pockets, one slipped by...sigh.

Tomorrow on the way in to The Press Room, I have a couple stops. Hope I get to Ocean State Discount before the packs of driveway marker stakes are gone, and I need sleeve protectors at Staples.

My driveway guy (who "did" our driveway this spring and who plows it in the winter) stopped by yesterday to see how the driveway is holding up -- it's doing wonderfully. A very small eroded gully leads rain water down the foot of the stone wall and further downhill on the side of turnaround -- and that's a good thing. Almost as if it were intentionally created. But he also suggested I need to invest in a leaf blower to clear the leaves, twigs and pine needles off the surface before they get soggy. I was going to rake to maintain it, but it IS a huge expanse of driveway... Believe me, I never even THOUGHT about leaf blowers before yesterday (and mildly made fun of people who used them).

Got a couple articles from the '90s to take to "Show and Tell" at the session tomorrow...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Oct 13 - 10:40 AM

I won't climb on my leaf-blower soapbox, but I dislike the things. I had the worst case of something in my eye when a guy using one didn't see me nearby. I'd be out there with gloves (to avoid blisters) and the rake.

Got a great (unintended) workout this morning. I took the dogs for a quick walk while the banana bread was baking, and on the steep block of my walk two little dogs, a yorkie and a pug, raced out of an open gate and were trying to get close to Cinnamon and Zeke who were closest to the yard. Poppy didn't start barking right away, and no one was growling or fighting, but it was a sudden burst of dog energy and possible tangled leashes. I shouted "get your dogs!" and Poppy started barking and a guy raced out and grabbed them, all apologetic. I didn't have enough breath to say anything. This was my intense workout for the day (citing one of those Dr. Michael Moseley programs about health, from the UK show Horizons, that suggests an intense 20-second workout is enough to take care of you for the day.)

Shower, flu shot, work. And set up a plumber appointment.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Oct 13 - 08:38 PM

I seem to be ready (mostly) to set up my yard sale. Been keeping a trash bin lined with a plastic bag next to the front door so as I come across things to put in the sale, I plop 'em in. Hardi is even putting stuff in there. When a bag is full it goes out to the front porch where soon Hardi will put it all on the little cargo trailer and haul it back by the camper I'll use as the Counting House. That bin by the door has been a great help!

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 03 Oct 13 - 11:25 PM

I've been busy with my quilting. Today I got together with friends and we all made barn quilts (kind of like a hex sign but a chosen quilt block instead). I wish I could post photos here to share but since that's not an option, you can see all the photos on Facebook. Send me a friend invite if you want to see and aren't already on my Friends list!

:) Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 Oct 13 - 08:32 AM

Tom saw his vascular doc yesterday -- the one that wants to do a very, very risky procedure to stent Tom's left leg and, perhaps, do a bypass from the right. He had conferred with Tom's cardiologist last week, and, since Dr. Cunningham (cardiologist) is a very conservative and cautious man (which I much admire in a cardiologist!) and our appointment with him was labelled "no hurry", I figured Dr. C had nixed the idea...and he had. There is also no immediate risk to doing absolutely nothing (while making sure the wounds don't become infected, of course).

I think Tom is very relieved that he's not facing serious surgery. Come to think of it, so am I. None of us are getting out of this world alive, but I really don't want to see Tom's exit hastened.

I need to do more research on non-surgical things that can help (I don't actually believe the vascular doc that massage or nutrition is useless). And there are a couple other doctors whose brains I'd like to pick. We talk to Dr. C on the 17th if not sooner.

Got myself a present yesterday -- I'd stopped at the local herbalist's for goldenseal to rinse my mouth (tongue still irritated from the broken molar) and splurged and got some perfume oils -- rose (which I'd actually gone in for), amber (which I was almost out of) and SANDALWOOD (which I haven't had for years and years; I LOVE sandalwood!). And when I got home, my "Instant Audience" from Archie McPhee was in the mailbox. Sometimes ya just gotta carry your own cheering audience or rimshot with ya...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Oct 13 - 01:07 PM

The dripping faucet out front has been replaced, an old gate valve (that used a washer that was mangled by corroded insides) gone and a ball valve installed. There is another old spigot in the back yard and I learned how to take it apart to replace the washer if it needs one. The back yard spigot is in better shape, it may be a bit newer.

My arm aches a bit from the flu shot, but I'm glad I got it - it seems like many of my co-workers are coming down with bugs. I suspect it is related to the stress of job changes and moves. I picked up some zinc lozenges to use if I come into contact with colds. They do really work, if you suck on a few in the earliest hours of feeling like you're catching a cold.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 Oct 13 - 02:11 PM

Stilly, I swear by echinacea taken year 'round (but with week-long breaks every few months so it works effectively). Also garlic supplements.

Oh, and while you're at it, margaritas for the lime juice and vitamin C! (Or bloody marys with lots of horseradish, for that matter.)

But you're spot on -- stress is the reason immune systems fail and you pick up every bug that comes down the pike.

Really hope you can find a job where you're not only appreciated but paid accordingly.

The water shut offs in our bathroom had the old-fashioned valves and one was corroded entirely so it couldn't be closed and the other wasn't really working well, either. Replaced with ball valves last spring when the bathtub faucets were replaced. Great improvement all around and now one less thing to worry about.

Every little bit helps.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 04 Oct 13 - 04:00 PM

Well....I've been having some medical issues and today I finally called the doctor and got myself for an appointment. *Grumble Mutter Mutter* There are 3 things going on but most concerning is some increasing pain in my lower right abdomen that has been going on for a few days...not sure what that's about but the pain is pretty intense and the frequency is jumping.

So today I just took it easy. I didn't do anything other than make a crock pot full of chili. I was a lounge lizard....took a shower and sat in my recliner ALL DAY. ALL DAY.

I've been kinda tired lately too so a day at home, alone was a good time to rest.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 04 Oct 13 - 05:33 PM

Decluttering.... let's see...

I'm on a whole new nutrition program that has me slaving away in a kitchen I love, but 2 large crockpots are now out of my huge hutch, which we have to use as spillover produce space. We ate or discarded all the leftover produce on hand over the last several days

I decluttered and re-organized my digital photo pre-op and post-op files today, using Dropbox, and printed a set of them as smalls to pull out when I need to refer to the reality of what I went through-- WITH a loving arm around me, not by myself-- cuz they fotos is ICK!!! Four cameras, two computers' worth, ICK!!!

We made some progress on reclaiming the Sailboats bedroom which is my midnite nap space; it gets to be a warehouse of unused stuff all too easily.... I set a spare pair of glasses in there for late-night reading, that had been gathering dust in the LR.

After a great declut of the pent-up surgical emotions yesterday, I slept like a baby and have been multitasking all day. TBTG I seem to be catching on to how to have two different and warring routines in each 7-day week (a 3 sked and a 4 sked).....

I have been able to fit aquatic PT back into the week AND do errands those days, most days... some days not so much.

This week I decluttered a number of post-op hygiene routines and products from my bathroom, that had gotten way too easy (crutchy).

I decluttered a bunch of "urgent" papers from the visor of the van, and brought in various coats and stuff that were clogging up the van. I recharged the scooter battery so we can hopefully get in at least one more rail-trail expedition with bike and scooter-- the earlier sunset makes these hard to squeeze in.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Oct 13 - 10:07 PM

I've been going through the Lynda training sessions for various programs we use at work (Microsoft's SharePoint is our relatively new Intranet for the university) and Dreamweaver, but I've also been doing the training for Windows 8, that is on my new laptop.

Susie and I went out for dinner, nothing fancy, but nice to get out and talk. She will probably have the new dogs next week (my co-worker's mother said Friday will probably work). Turns out the largest dog that was spoken for is now in flux - who knows, maybe I'll end up with an extra. That's an awful lot of dogs. A friend is going to see about some friends of hers who live on property that would be perfect for the dog - if that doesn't go through, then we'll see.

It's supposed to be cool and possibly rainy this weekend. It should be very nice for getting work done around the house.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 10:09 AM

Oh and more decluts. ... my flannel travel towels got to be way huge. Two of them (in one pattern I LOVE) were used and labeled at the nursing home and are thus now remibders of deep upset. So I re-purposed them. One got way small to be lightweight for aquatic PT use. The other got way small for use in later years when the upsets have healed, and the piece I tore off that one went into the bag that goes to counseling sessions.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 01:29 PM

Lovely cooler and overcast day. Computer troubleshooting (getting a connection between Win 7 and Win 8 computers should be easier than this.)

Into the sun room to work this morning.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 02:42 PM

I went to a 10 mile yard sale today and had a blast! I picked up an old Kenmore sewing machine and cabinet for $20.00 (WOO HOOO!), a rack for hanging fabric strips, a hinged 3 part frame, 4 tops for Jeremiah, a pair of barely worn, heavy duty hiking shoes for Jeremiah, a Sit and Spin, a box of 25 Highlight magazines, 2 smallish cookie jars (one winter/one Christmas) that will be cute for my coffee accessories, 2 books for mama, 2 games for the wee one (Whack A Mole and a matching game with cars which he will LOVE), a giant tin of Tinker Toys and a little lawnmower that blows bubbles. I also bought bottle of water and a cinnamon roll which I split with my friend. I spent under $35.00 and am thrilled with all our goodies...none of which we NEEDED except for the clothes and hiking boots...not too bad for a day out of FUN and shopping. :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 02:46 PM

Today I decluttered the stuff I use for the 3-season kazoo band I'm in. One re-usable grocery bag per season, to hold skirt, hat, a few rhythm instruments, and decor. There is room in my SuperCloset for all three. The current season's costume hangs in the laundry area, freshly fluffed, on the back of the door up to the old MudDorm attic.

In doing this I came across a folding stool I used to need, to set my gig stuff on in front of me, which I no longer need to use in that way. It is a great portable footrest that can travel in the van.

In this process I also reclaimed a bibbed apron I'd used for this group, because we now have matching aprons. It's bright gold-yellow and came from my mom's estate. For the band, I had removed the neck loop and was using it folded to just a waist arpon. So now, I've pinned on a bright-pink strap that is thick and not itchy. I'll get some cheap matching ribbon to extend the waist ties, and scotchguard the whole thing to make it nearly waterproof. Till I can afford that stuff, I can wash it and then dry it with extra dryer sheets which tends to inhibit absorbability. I'll probably add patches, etc. to personalize it further. I might not have chosen this color, but my kitchen IS blue, white, and yellow!

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 03:06 PM

Counting coups is the last best part of this kind of garage sale. Congratulations on all of those finds!

Working my way through new tasks after quitting on the computer. I'll figure out how to make the network open up at some point. Laundry is in, ant carcasses near the back door vacuumed. I've seen them outside in lines, but didn't do anything about them; they seem to have moved into the chimney. I sprayed an organic pesticide called spinosad mixed with water around the base of the fireplace several times yesterday and the message seems to have gotten back to the rest of them to stay out of the house.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 06:26 PM

The biggest de-cluttering here is the brand new air cleaner hard at work in the almost completely enclosed living space. Purchasing it was as painless as spending a large amount of money can be. The wonderful customer service at the Ottawa retailer was a sweetheart. Wow! They do exist! IT was meant to arrive on Monday when we would be here but I was assured tat if they tried to deliver on Friday, they would return on Monday. My potting friend happened to be here and being a dear intelligent woman, signed for it and emailed me to inform.

I am low energy today and only managed a trip to the library, where I wore a respirator to avoid toxins. Also unpacked the "Christmas present" and set it up to do its job. Lungs are still de-cluttering, sometimes with lengthy coughing fits, but less and less.

Three days in the city with my friend, of 40 years, with Parkinson's has left me drained emotionally and physically. Need to spend time googling it. However, the reason I was there was so the husband could attend a major conference on Parkinson's. He came home with good info. A very private person, she does not have close friends coming to visit. Days are LONG! I will try to visit a couple times a month or more, as possible. Tai chi was recommended; I could try to fit it in to attend with her if possible. Also LOTS of exercise and good posture.

In the pottery, work is at a screeching halt. It is the next project for R and Bruno, who will be back on Monday. I am hoping for a working studio by the end of the week. Hoping!

Did not get the laundry done and it is to start raining tomorrow through Weds. Oh well.

Linn's posts about putting things in a designated space: I keep trying that with R - "SO I CAN FIND THINGS!" This has been ingrained in me since birth but it seems to be a foreign concept to most people. ...

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 06:30 PM

Linn, your box is probably going in the mail on Monday. It's hefty. I have a care package for my son also, and a bunch of odd-ball pads of paper for a friend who loves these things (I get them from the printer who cuts up leftover paper from print jobs and makes pads) for making lists.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 05 Oct 13 - 10:18 PM

Twelve log cabin squares (10.5 square inches) completed! YAY!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 01:39 AM

Best I could do about sewing today was to stick my head into the sewing room and look fondly at the sewing table.

I did get something done today, I'm sure of it. Some laundry, some paperwork. Some computer work. Dishes. And another load of laundry will go in at bedtime. Linn's box is packed, weighed, measured, ready to go. A couple of other pieces of mail also.

I nearly burned a good pan this evening - water boiled out. I should have set the timer but I let myself get distracted. Zeke came in and got my attention. I don't do that often, but I scare myself back into better practices when something like this happens. I have a new timer, I just have to get used to how it works.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 04:42 AM

is

Lurking in this thread
Learning from your experiences
Longing for the energy
Loving your successes

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 08:50 AM

is

Loving you lurking
Trusting you to takae the best and leave the rest
Praying you enjoy more energy
Looking forwards towards your own successes

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 09:43 AM

Wow! A day where we don't have to go anywhere, no one is coming here, and there is NOTHING that is imperative to be done today!

Tom is up and I guided him to the table and got his coffee, the dishes are running through (and all the hand washing done), and I read a book before I came downstairs.

I have a list of things it would be nice to accomplish today, but I won't fret if I don't get anything else done and maybe just watch "The Lion In Winter" or "The Name of the Rose" which I scored at Goodwill a few weeks ago.

Yesterday I went to the Portsmouth farmers' market to pick up my CSA share from Meadow's Mirth. Had a nice talk about infused vodkas (we shared ideas) with my "bitters lady" and bought a birthday present for someone who shall remain nameless. She gave me a lovely little bouquet of bright yellow orange daisy-like flowers and purply airy sprigs. Then, on the way out I again encouraged the young musician playing low whistle (and guitar) at the top of the stairs to come to the Friday Press Room session.

Hit two yardsales on the way over to a friend's house -- one where everything was free (and I got her a pair of wine glasses and myself...um...books...) and the other (two blocks away) where everything was way overpriced.

And then had a lovely afternoon of dog cuddling and conversation and wine before heading home.

Lovely day.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 10:00 AM

Oh thank goodness for empty days!!!!

Laundry is already going here and some other things lined up. Tomorrow looks to be a bit more quiet and then the week is off to the races!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 10:01 AM

is happy to see VT! :)

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 10:07 AM

This weekend sounds great so far! We had rain last night and it's supposed to warm up to the low 80s this afternoon so I see gardening in part of the day. Laundry washed early this morning and is now drying.

We're finally to sweater and long-sleeve weather, and I got out my thermal blanket for the bed last night.

Last night I started going through the book with all of the passwords for accounts set up over the years. Some of those accounts need to go away, they never get used. The remarks are spread out in too many places. Same with some of the old email accounts. That's a big job.

SRS

Subject: Camera Bag as Purse
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 12:42 PM

I'm decluttering my main purse. It holds too much and will not multitask as much as I need it to, so.... sniff..... Bye! (Becomes scooter cargo bag.)

Hardi had a plain, black camera bag with us one day that was a HUGE help to me, so I asked for one to replace my purse. I can always accessorize it to girlie it up; for fall I simply hung a very bright fall-patterned scarf on it, and inside there's room for tech gear I use to record things, unmentionables, Kindle, and a meal.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 01:38 PM

Thank you all for welcoming me back. I am inspired by and a tad envious of you all.

Master bedroom is completely clean (including the mold and inch think dust) and somewhat decluttered. I hope I breath easier tonight but all the work andstirring up dust has got me coughing really hard again. :\

Broken shelf in bookcase fixed. New curtains ironed and hung. Freshly washed and ironed linens on bed. Can't wait to crawl in after shower.

I even made dinner this evening. Enchiladas.

I may tackle some ironing this evening too.

Feeling accomplished.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 01:56 PM

Sounds like a great start, Tam, and you're miles ahead of some of us. Ironing curtains - that is ambitious!

Secret Santa 2013 has been launched. If you have things you want to declutter that are good and interesting and small enough to ship you might want to participate and pass said items along to an appreciative Santee. Just a thought (we need more players, it has gotten a bit slim the last couple of years).

Out to mow the front now that the rain from last night has mostly soaked in. And I can consider putting out the watering system that I purchased last spring and didn't do anything with because of the drip at that faucet. It's a brass 4-spigot fitting with a timer so that different zones can be watered as needed, all from the tap on the house via hoses and not trenching to put in a PVC watering system. I still have a couple of new hoses to put into play also. I could also decide this is too fussy and take it back to Home Depot.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 05:03 PM

Hey VT...wanna come tackle our bedroom? Since we spend so little time in there, it is the last room on my list to spend time on. I NEED to spend at least a day in there to sort out clothes that need to go, some that need to be tucked away until later, etc.

I helped with firewood today. Whew. It's a HOT day for that! Today was pretty awesome though...Pete got me a new (old) sewing machine...a Singer 201...a work horse that I can't wait to tinker with. It came with a cabinet too that I want to strip down. Any good recommendations on paint removers that work the best?

The machine itself is GORGEOUS and has been well loved. It clearly has been oiled and greased not so long ago and the scroll work on the face plate is divine! She was born in 1946. :) Most importantly, the bobbin casing is in place and she purrs that lovely little tick that older Singers do...perfection! I can't wait to try her out!

All my sewing machines have names. For this machine, I'm liking Annie but won't know for sure until I spend some more time with her.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 05:25 PM

Rufus has interspersed his late night and today's activities with pulling flowers out of the vase and dropping them on the floor. (I told him I don't mess with HIS flowers!)

Got 2 bundles of the driveway stakes (plow guides) around the interior of the turnaround...in the rain. (Not heavy; just a steady drip.) Think I'll go back and get another 2-3 bundles and a couple more of the reflector-topped stakes (for then end of the driveway -- my plow guy would LOVE to push snow back into my flower beds).

Laundry just finished and I should put it in the dryer...(gotta think about that; do I want to fold everything and put it away tonight? Nah.)

And, most importantly, I FINISHED putting all of Tom's freelance articles into page protectors. AND I got all of 1994 in a binder in order. AND I indexed them... Now all I have to do is type the index so I can print a couple copies and then -- not tonight! -- pull out all the 2nd copies (making photocopies of a few that don't have dupes) into The Archives. Still, of course, have 1995-1999 to go, but this is one small part of my archival/organizational project more or less completed. Whew. I feel accomplished!

Leftover fried rice for supper tonight. Tom's not excited about it, but, hey, it needs to be eaten up (and it's a really quick fix).

It's been a good day! (Never bothered to put my contacts in.)

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 01:06 AM

Linn, I'm sending you 25 pounds of binders that should take care of quite a few of the remaining years.

Michelle, how many sewing machines do you have now? (I have two.) I've been tempted to buy others at estate sales, but I don't have room. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 04:00 AM

ugghhh... Paying for the weekend's activities. Lots of pain in hands and feet. Must go to hospital and get bloods done today before RA consultant appointment tomorrow. I have been too ill and the virus in my body would have queered the results. May still, but has to be done.

When I get back I tackle the spare room AKA the Bermuda Triangle. I hope I find a dirigible in there that I can steampunk. :) Got to find my saloon girl dress and see if I can fit into it or make it fit around me for the Bat Conservation masqued ball I will be attending on 19 October. TheSilentOne is going as riverboat gambler.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 04:53 AM

Michelle that sewing machine sounds like gorgeous. Do you know what kind of paint is on that cabinet? In the UK there is this stuff called polycell which you paste on like cake icing, allow to dry about 6 hours and then scrape it away and the old paint falls off with it. Plan to use this on the decades of layers of gloss paint on our door frames and skirting, before we replace the doors.

Will take about a week we think, so will do in summer and stay in our caravan nights at nearby campsite.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 09:57 AM

I've used a paint stripper here (it is a very thick liquid, kind of like rubber cement) but it stinks, must be done in the open, and when you scrape it off you have a sticky goo to keep track of. Something like "Jasco" - I'm sure there are products in your local hardware store. That stuff that VT describes sounds nicer. I remember seeing an ad for something like that years ago, but could never find it. It involved a layer of paper, I think.

Lovely cool morning. Didn't sleep well, I think Zeke had an upset tummy from something he ate in the yard. He was drooling and licking a lot, I finally gave him a benedryl after he'd had me up the fourth time in the middle of the night. I'll police the grounds, see what might be back there. This happened to Cinnamon one time when I think she got a sprig of a datura (jimson weed) that was coming up in some dirt that was transplanted from the front yard to the back. I never toss those plants in the compost, I trash them and try to keep the dogs away from them.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 10:04 AM

I have no idea what kind of paint is on the sewing machine cabinet. :/ It looks like someone tried to make it an off white...kinda glossy. ICK.

Maggie, I have 4 sewing machines and will be adding one more to the collection before New Year's if all goes well.   I have a 1953 Singer Featherweight which is what I am currently sewing with (and have been for about a year now), an undated Kenmore...will hunt down the serial number on that machine later today which was purchased at a yard sale for $20.00 and have yet to plug in but all her moving parts work smoothly and the bobbin case is in good working order (and there...many times that crucial piece is missing and you will pay a minimum of $80.00 for an original casing). I know a little of her history and don't really anticipate having many problems other than adding some fresh oil, greasing her gears and giving her a good polish. :) The machine I got yesterday was a gift from Pete and is a 1946 Singer 201, affectionately called "The Workhorse" in the sewing world. She's essentially a Featherweight on steroids. I also have a treadle machine that belonged to my great grandmother. I have not had it out of the cabinetry in many, many years. I imagine I'll be giving her a good once over with oil, grease and polish too at some point. Oh...I do have one other machine. It's a Singer that was given to me by my mom in 1993, purchased at Ames (pre-Walmart store). It's a basic machine that no longer runs. I've had it *fixed* but it still isn't right. My mom got it for me because I was hand sewing curtains for our apartment and I think she felt sorry for me.

As for the last machine that I will be purchasing, that is going to be a Brother Simplicity SB3129. Why another machine? All the antique machines are beautiful and they do run however none of those machines are built to have the feed dogs dropped for quilting (I CAN stitch in the ditch with them or tie quilts but...) This will be a new, up to date machine that I will use for quilting small quilt tops, runners and bags. It runs around $500.00 plus a few attachments. I've done a lot of research to find a machine that will fit my budget and this one looks PERFECT! I had the cash for the machine, finally made the decision as to which machine I wanted and BAM....car died with a bill of $890.00. The sewing machine will just have to wait. It seems that things work out that way quite often. No matter, in the meantime, I have one excellent working machine, two that will need a little elbow grease and a lot of fabric to play with! I'm a happy girl!

We are under a severe storm warning and tornado watch so I hopped in the shower after taking Jeremiah to school, have the laundry going and am now off to do the dishes and some vacuuming before the lightening begins or we lose power. I see that the rain has JUST started. It has been really windy here since last night (a welcome relief from the ICKY HUMIDITY we had yesterday).

Are any of you sewing out there?

Much Love to All!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 11:34 AM

Michelle, I don't think there is a way to hide that targeted cash from other appliances, I know that feeling well, you're all set to make an important purchase and the truck needs tires or the water pump dies, or the dryer dies.

My daughter has a Singer series 15 that she got when she was a teen, and before her it had basically gone unused for decades. My neighbor gave it to me when I noticed it in her front hall. It was destined for a garage sale, but I'd helped her move and assemble some furniture. I had it oiled and new cords put on and it's a workhorse. It's an early rotary machine, no belt. She was given this as a wedding gift but had never learned to sew!

I have an old original White, one my cousin used for years before giving it to me. The probably dates from the 1940s or 50s and is all iron - it weighs a ton. I loved getting this because I didn't have one at the time, my mother, sister and I used a machine at home in Washington and I was living in NYC. I sewed tons of stuff on that, and finally got a "modern" machine with cams later. It isn't a great machine, but it works.

Off to the post office.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 11:49 AM

Maggie - I hope Zeke feels better soon and you find the culprit before it strikes again.

Michelle - You should google images of AllSaints Spitalfields. Old glass shop front stacked with shelves and shevles of old sewing machines.

Well I did not make the start on spare room. Utterly wiped out from trip to GP surgery and hospital and the waiting for buses. Even a little exertion starts me coughing like crazy.

I may make a try tonight because we really need to get to stuff to sort out our masqued ball costumes and masques (yet to be made). I also need to make a holster for Chris to carry the brass opium pipe .

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 07:36 PM

I woke up this morning at 4:30 and gave up on trying to get back to sleep. Read instead until I grabbed a pile of 5x7 photographs that a friend had taken at the 2005 PMFF and sorted (found duplicates to give to the appropriate people), trimmed, and started paging them for The Archives.

I figured I'd fade sometime today but it never happened (unless it's happening right now at 7:20pm...).

After I washed and dried my hair (and worked some more on the photographs and consolidating piles of paper and trying to make some sense out of the yet unfiled stuff) I headed off to the credit union to pay the mortgage and then do some grocery shopping. Brought everything into the house including the wine I bought on Saturday.

Spent a little time at the computer then started cooking. I'd bought what I needed to do a boiled dinner and a meatloaf. Wasn't sure which I'd have tonight, but figured if nothing else, boiled dinner always improves each time it's heated up. So we had the meatloaf tonight. I made mushroom gravy but then decided, instead of making the little new potatoes (boil them, then squash each one and sauté in butter), that I'd mash up some of the boiled dinner veggies and have that with gravy over everything. Tom loved it. And it's enough different (and no cabbage in it yet) that the same vegetables in the boiled dinner tomorrow will be "new".

The other consideration is that it's impossible to make a small boiled dinner for two unless you eat it forever -- which Tom won't go for. When it cools off a bit, I'll freeze 2 cups of the veggie stock tonight. And the next time I make the boiled dinner for supper (Friday, maybe, after the session, or Saturday) I'll turn it into hash and fry it. Tom taught me that years ago. And anything left I'll freeze; it should freeze okay, shouldn't it? Or I'll freeze it as hash.

I need a bigger fridge. I definitely need a bigger freezer!

I didn't buy a rutabega for the boiled dinner -- I had several types of turnips from my CSA share. The little white ones are sooooo nice. Ate one raw while I was cooking.

Gotta go dish up some ice cream for dessert -- with a friend's frozen blackberries that I just thawed. (One more thing OUT of the freezer!)

Oh, those of you on my Facebook feed heard about my wildlife adventures today. First when I was coming home from the store, a young (12-14" shell) snapping turtle had nearly finished crossing the road (I wasn't going to help him) and then two wild turkeys dashed across the road heading in the same direction. (Big Foot probably behind them.) Later at home when I went to take out the kitchen compost, I startled about 21+ turkeys ambling past the deck on their way out to the woods. I love living here!

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 05:35 AM

Linn as the weather turns cooler, that boiled dinner idea appeals more and more to me. However, my vegetarian husband is not keen on "boiled" veg.

I tend to cook up a collection of root veg with sweet onion, cabbage, celery and peas. Then separate into halves. Half to go with a jar of balti sauce, rice pilaf, naan, for a curry. The other half chicken veg soup for my lunches part of which will be frozen.

I am loving the description of wildlife. I have view of a part dead leylandii with the occasional ring necked dove, wood pigeon perching or random cat climbing through from the fence beneath.

If I manage to keep my job, we will be staying in first floor flat. I am thinking that I should make kitchen and lounge picture windows (which are east facing and quite deep) into mini greenhouse gardens. Herbs in kitchen, ornamental / edible plants in lounge.   

Can't do anything about pets. Chris doesn't like dogs, thinks it is cruel to keep cats indoors, has views about caged birds and aquariums as unnatural and cruel. Sigh. Maybe he will be up for foster caring for cats. I need animals in my life.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 08:24 AM

Linn, cooked potatoes don't freeze well.... texture issues. We don't. Easy enuf to nuke one at mealtime and squash it to absorb juices.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 12:20 PM

Okay, I'll bite. What is a "boiled dinner?" It brings to mind something a friend used to eat a lot, made by a German woman who was her home care service person - boiled cabbage and potatoes?

Going for a walk with the dogs in a few minutes, trying to keep up the exercise for all of us.

I've tried a couple of new shampoos lately, one seems to have made my hands break out. I don't think I have any foods that cause the reaction, so I'll cut out the new shampoos and try them one at a time. The mistake was trying both very close together, I can't tell which is the culprit.

I had to run by the eye doctor's last night to pickup up contacts ordered by Moonglow. Next door is a Ross store, and though they don't always have great selection, I found one pair of slacks that I'll use to create a couple of outfits for fall. They were supposedly originally $58 and I got them for $7; whatever, I won't feel bad about setting them aside if I continue to lose the weight and they become too large. That is my goal, but I've been on a plateau for a while, hence the push for more exercise. With the cooler weather exercise is a pleasure, not a sweatbath.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 05:45 PM

"New England" boiled dinner, Stilly, though I grew up with it in the Midwaste, I mean, Midwest (Milwaukee) in the '50s -- a autumn and winter staple in my mom's kitchen. (And straight out of Betty Crocker.)

It's often made with brisket, but I grew up with the cheaper type of bone-in hams. I discovered some years ago that the PERFECT meat is smoked beef tongue, but I can't smoke one at home, and they're no longer readily available in grocery stores. Yesterday's was made with a small piece of ham and some sweet Italian sausage for Tom. The rest is a profusion of vegetables -- potatoes, rutabegas (or turnip), celery, lots of onions, carrots and cabbage. Cover with water and boil til done. (Meat first, of course, then add the veggies, cabbage last.)

I like to drink the liquid either warm or cold and I put a zip-loc of 2 cups (no cabbage juice, though) in the freezer yesterday.

I like it better than a beef stew. Tom's less enthusiastic about it but he'll put up with it occasionally. He won't eat it as boiled dinner, though, more than twice max, maybe only once. But he showed me about 25 years ago how to make a hash out of the meat and veg solids, then fry it up in for something not so completely different.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 10:04 PM

Boiled Dinner? YUM! I married a New Englander....we have boiled dinner often in the winter!

Today I spent time with a good friend from long ago, held/played with/snuggled with twin infants (3 months old), had a productive doctor visit, quiet alone time to take photos on this absolutely stunning fall morning, a few minutes to study before a class, dinner with Jeremiah and my mom and then a great class.

Today was definitely a day well lived!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 12:30 AM

I make stew fairly often, but with beef. I've made corned beef. I don't think it's a stretch to get to the recipe described above, but I never had it in my neck of the woods (Western Washington or North Texas).

My braised beef short ribs were wonderful. I cooked those with onion, carrot, potato, and a bag of frozen tomatoes. Mmmmmm!

This was my late day at work, starting with a rather grim staff meeting where management is still trying to convince a very unhappy staff that this reorganization was meant all for the best.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 09:15 AM

Actually it IS a "stew" of sorts, but with more or less clear juice rather than brown gravy. And big on root vegetables like turnips (rutabegas), carrots and potatoes.

Yesterday was a more or less lost day. I had no energy, felt so heavy I could barely move my arms or legs.

Got what HAD to be done, done -- trash out for pickup, Tom's compression stocking on, him fed and caffeinated.

Then I went upstairs and tried to nap, but was awakened twice by the phone (should have turned the ringer off), once to move up Tom's wound center appointment today by half an hour and the other trying to sell me a new credit card. (THAT one was extremely annoying -- we're on the no-call list, but we get that one or the other robo-call trying to sell us "security" at least every other day -- usually when it interrupts something on the far side of the room.)

About the only thing I really accomplished was finishing a book.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 12:39 PM

Hump day. Humps of stuff sitting around the office needing attention - I have to get this out of the way so my floor space because I think there might be an extra very large dog here for a while. No point in having papers for all of them to slip on or lie on.

I made a resolution today that I'll spell out more later. Sometimes even though you make a decision you have to see how well it fits and how you adjust before you promote it.

Lovely fall weather and I'll take the dogs out for a walk at lunch. I need to work on the dog stall in the garage, make it longer and a bit wider. I've figured out how, but I need to move things that are up next to it in order to enlarge it. A job for the weekend coming up.

Linn's box is in transit - I saw yesterday that it left Dallas. It's probably on a truck to Chicago or New York or someplace - USPS employees won't be posting their photos with this box like Flat Stanley, but at least they send an email note every so often to say it's on the way.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: SINSULL
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 01:37 PM

Just had my biannual health screening at work. The gout diet paid off with a 48 point drop in my triglycerides. Sugars are good too. Weight is down.

I am not going to pretend that I don't miss steak and even seafood but every time I have even a bit, I end up with a huge red toe. Not worth it.

And the house is getting decluttered a bit at a time. Down to four bins in the sun room from wall to wall clutter.

Now that the getaway crowd is off to other places, life is settling back to normal. Nice.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: mg
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 05:28 PM

Could Tom be in charge of screening phone calls and getting rid of junk calls?

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 06:59 PM

When we moved here we found out why every pastor's home needs to have some emergency baby stuff on hand. I allocated one large kitchen-type cabinet for stuff, and it was outta sight/outta mind when not needed, plus an oversized portacrib upstairs in the guestroom closet and a huge dresser drawer that can sleep beside our bed.

But I'm downsizing and declutting. So half of that cabinet's worth went in the yardsale bin today-- I kept the books, a floorplay quilt, and one of those baby recliner thingies (a fabric-covered frame to lay a little one in). Because NOW there is also a 24-hr Wally World 10 minutes away and I do know how to diaper a baby in cloth!

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 08:27 PM

Some steady progress in a roller coaster sort of way. Periods of coughing incessantly in spite of vit C as a "cough drop" - lots of it! Sun and Mon pretty good, and yesterday I managed to get some things done - laundry washed, hung, dried and folded. Trip to cop shop for fingerprints for citizenship app. Visit to library, with respirator, to get another book. We can only take out one "NEW" book at a time so I finished the exc Tracy Chevalier and returned it so I could take out another - Warshawski this time. Not near the quality of TC but OK. Also to fabric store to look for curtain fabric for the window wall. I was hoping Joe could get me a bunch of the white crinkly cotton but he says not. May have to go to the city stores. Arghhh! or on line?

My wrist is healing very well. Bruno is working on the studio which is going to be quite different. The inner wall, delineating it from whatever use will be next door, is entirely shelves. Twelve feet of 4x8 plywood sheets, boxed with 2x10s with shelves from bottom to top, about 12 inches apart. Two small windows-that-open on west wall; an "L" for kiln, glaze-mixing area will have exhaust fan and 16 feet of shelf walls. Then insulation and something on the west wall; windows and patio door on south wall - where someday I hope to have a deck so I can roll the wheel out there on warm days. The east wall already has door and two big windows-that-do-not-open. At least we can look out at the sky while potting.

Caught up on the dishes today and picked up local newspaper at a friend's. Airing out drawers of chest of d bought at last months auction. Very perfumey smelly. They are almost clear. It will be nice to have clothes in drawers rather than on a book case in the cold, damp storage area. Bedding is now stored in a plastic bin in sunroom, rather than the cold....

I opted to have the studio completed before the kitchen. I have orders to make and lots of pots needing to be trimmed and dried for firing. But just having one "pantry" cupboard in the K where I can put dishes and other stuff is wonderful.

Looking to have some energy to figure out a place to plant the perennials that are still in pots, just to get them through the winter as the place we want them is no where near ready.

The "Incinolet" is going to be installed before too long, close outside the sunroom in the storage area. At least it is out of the box and in a designated space. That will be wonderful! It is getting to be not only a long walk but an increasingly cold one to the distant toilet.

Weather is holding - since the incredible wind storm and rain on Monday! Beautiful sunny days, close to 70 during the day. I could live with this all year round. Where ?

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 08:57 PM

Well, Tom had an appointment at the wound clinic at 12:30, but we ended up spending the afternoon and evening in the ER. All the info is in the new Curmudgeon thread I just started.

Sigh.

Just finished eating something (salad and two ham sandwiches) since I hadn't had anything since breakfast. Had planned on some R&R tonight -- going to see a friend performing at The Press Room. I'm going to give it a miss despite probably needing it more than ever.

Got to go post this at Facebook...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 10:32 PM

Linn, go to bed with a good book but get a full night's sleep. Take care of yourself while you're taking care of Tom.

I hunted around and found a small paint brush (one that the kids would have used with their paints) to finish around the hinges on the cabinet I've been working on. I'll also repaint the top and take the measurements to get a piece of glass to put on top. Without glass the paint will always be marked up.

I took the cover off of one of the two lights of a halogen fixture on the porch - the one that was aimed at the garage was burned out, I thought, but it doesn't come back on with a replacement bulb. The other one points down the driveway, but I prefer having a light pointed at the garage so I've shifted it. These don't last more than a few years.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 07:37 AM

I decided to postpone the yard sale 1 week. My helper made me a better offer a d since this was a non-advertised thingie, no harm no foul. Also gives me more time to pull items I want to purge!

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 08:10 AM

Town wide yard sale on the 19th...I'm working to pull things together for the sale...there are a bunch of us doing a LARGE gathering...should be FUN!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 12:36 PM

I've loved it when there were weekends when everyone seemed to have the same idea - it makes shopping a real treat to move from block to block with several sales in each, and it fills a lot of my household gaps with things other people need to get rid of. But our town has never done a promotion for something like that formally.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 08:12 PM

On the way to the hospital this afternoon, I stopped at a yardsale that turned out to be free. Got three pairs of brand new (though they had been stored in less than optimal conditions by a woman I suspect is a hoarder) black leather winter gloves.

Did all the stuff this morning (and talked to Tom twice) that I didn't get done yesterday. Just got home from the hospital a few minutes ago. And I'm in a bit of a state. I think I'm more worried about Tom than even during his heart surgery back in 2004.

He still feels fine. He'd like to come home. But the doctor hasn't a clue what's causing his BP fluctuation.

Gotta go shower and wash my hair. Then heat up some boiled dinner since it's been a long time since I've eaten.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 09:05 PM

I actually felt sick and tired of just reading novels today - but did not quite muster enough energy to get the sewing machine out of the storage area and set it up and do something useful. Largely because it meant putting on the respirator to sort things out AND opening the door to go in and out a couple times would mean more pollution getting into living space.

I did go out and get a ladder, the stapler and newspaper to cover the last hole in the ceiling. That seemed to be my limit of wearing the respirator and going in and out - for fear of letting too much pollution into living space. That is actually an irrational fear as the air cleaner is designed for a much larger space and can easily do the job-- I am telling myself so I can do more tomorrow. Goal: remove winter clothes from storage to cupboards in living space. Sewing machine, too.

I did manage to wash my hair under the hose when it warmed up. That felt good. And walked up to the field and talked to the "nursery guy" for a while. He now has hundreds of trees in pots and concern for protecting them in the cold weather. He also pointed out an area he has cleared where I can plant some of the perennials.

The sawdust emanating from the studio on the prevailing breeze precluded sitting outside today. Having ascertained the toxicity of inhaled sawdust last night, I am in a state of extreme caution. Five months of feeling lousy and coughing way too much and worse the last couple weeks has made me very fed up, scared, frustrated, and angry. After B left tonight, I opened the door and window in the studio in hopes of airing it out so I can get some work done tomorrow before he starts again - usually about noon. Maybe I can find the exhaust fan, too.

I tried to go to the writers' group. They are very accepting about my wearing the respirator but I was having trouble breathing with it on and had to leave and come back home. I seem to have some upper respiratory involvement today; clogged nasal passages make it harder to breathe.      

Thinking of Linn. How fortunate Tom is to have her.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 11:47 PM

What a day. I spent my time going through photo archives looking for images of the hospitalized husband of a library co-worker. He's a physics professor who spoke in the library during a lecture series two years ago. I had photos of him that I shot in order to make a promotional poster, and I had shots of the event itself. Yesterday he had extremely low blood pressure and was rushed to the hospital; it was determined that a stent put in a couple of months ago after a heart attack was somehow blocked and for a 30 minute period he didn't get blood to the brain. He is now on life support until his wife tells them to remove it. He really liked the photo I used for his poster, and I'd given him a copy that he used on his faculty profile. I had to dig into the files for InDesign to find that - I had email from the Dean that this was his favorite photo and it was the one they wanted for his obituary. My co-worker had gone home to shower so I gave a disk of the entire set to a family friend at the hospital.

I also dug out a photo of a man who retired in 2008 and moved to Minnesota last year to be near his family. We learned this morning that he died late last week. And I'm going to crop a couple of photos of my other co-worker who is in hospice and is remarkably still alive, though she is only responsive with blinking eyes and twitching her hands. She is aware. She is skeletal. I saw her today and then, in the same hospital, went up to see the professor's wife. The whole week is tied up with these sad matters - tomorrow Susie and I will pick up the two dogs and bring them over here.

They're going to have grief counselors in the library tomorrow; I think that is a very good move. I think I'll go talk to one of them. All of this on top of the reorganization that wrenched us in all directions.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Oct 13 - 09:48 AM

I see that Linn's box is out for delivery. I'm sure it will be left if you're not home, so don't trip on it!

I think I closed the laptop when there was an update from Windows waiting to install. It won't turn on now. Must contact Sony. Ugg. If they have to change the hard drive I'm up a creek - I have a lot of single-installation software in there.

It's a grim Friday. No news of my co-workers, but there is no good news coming.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Oct 13 - 12:40 PM

Online research says that I may need to remove the battery to try to restart it in safe mode, or perhaps letting it run down completely will accomplish the same thing. I've printed out a stack of tips to read through and consider.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Oct 13 - 06:08 PM

Heading out to pick up Susie then go get the dogs. Challenging evening ahead! As of this morning my co-worker in hospice is no longer having visitors and there is a bedside vigil underway. A friend of hers will be at the house to make the dog arrangements.

While I was at the hospice yesterday she was aware, was fluttering her eyes and moving her hand - I told her about Susie adopting the dogs, and that they were going to a home where they would be welcome and loved as family. I hope she understood.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Oct 13 - 10:08 PM

Thank you, Stilly! The package came today. It's still sitting on the deck as I couldn't manage it with one hand while getting into the house. I'll bring it in tomorrow morning in daylight so I can keep Rufus from escaping to investigate "outside".

I need to go to bed now (after doing a quick Facebook check). Long day spent mostly at the hospital reading to Tom. Went to the Press Room session, left at 7:30 and went back to Dover on my way home. (Portsmouth - Dover - Nottingham is a big triangle.)

Thanks again, Maggie -- I can't wait to open the box and see those wonderful binders! (It's pathetic how excited I get over binders and page protectors and different kinds of paper and stuff like that.)

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Oct 13 - 11:23 PM

Got the laptop up and running after the battery ran down. I looked for some tips online since these Win8 systems start so fast you don't have time to press F8 to get to the BIOS or system restore. It ended up being remarkably easy. Whew!

The dogs have been delivered to their new house. Susie's King Charles Spaniel is thrilled with these two - she has been so lonely as the only dog. The two big ones are just fine with her.

I'm glad you didn't trip over the box, Linn. Sorry you couldn't move it easily - it did weigh an even 25 lbs. Thank goodness for media mail!

And thank goodness for the weekend!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Oct 13 - 11:26 AM

I spent almost 3 hours ydy, cleaning/pricing yard sale items with Jesus, dog, and radio. Three packed trash barrels-ful done and 2 large plastic bins of fabrics eyeballed (YAY, no mice evidence).

To my surprise, I am liking the work involved in following the advice to sticker-price ALL the items (not to just set out tables with table-pricing; it gave me a chance to clean and spruce up items as I prayerfully envisioned: how their eventual recipients may use them, what their lives are like, where each item came from, saying goodbye to some of the reasons for having them, looking forward to new spaces....

I do not even care if I don't make a dime-- it all goes to FreeCycle and Goodwill if it doesn't sell-- because I really enjoyed the fresh air and being able to do the work without any helping hands (human ones). And I am so glad I postponed it a week to take this time and care, and to be on the planet to enjoy being actually able to do a job within my compass.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 12 Oct 13 - 01:52 PM

Flu injection this morning a half hour late as I lost my appointment card (not really a card just tiny slip of paper). It probably got tossed out with wodge of snot filled tissues I cleaned out my hand bag. Ironic going to get flu shot while I am recuperating from flu.

Got chatted up by 2 old fellas. One while waiting at bus stop to go to surgery to get my flu jab. The next when I left the surgery and ran into colleague and her American bull mastiff (Soldier) on the corner outside surgery. He was chatting her up first then followed me to road crossing chatting to me about having been in the army and knowing American soldiers. His native area Yorkshire. And where the devil was is wife who was out walking their dog?   Old fella number one chewed my ear off about where his ancestors were orginally from, Rochester Kent. Funny thing when Chris and I finally get ready to move, it is a toss up between Kent and Yorkshire. Talking to these 2 old dudes did not get me any nearer to making a decision about which way to move.

Work done today -
Bathroom is sparkling except tub. Will tackle that tomorrow.

Deep dusted and vaccummed everything in the lounge/diner except Chris' computer / office corner which is no go area for me. There are student papers spread all over.

Used one vacuum to thoroughly clean the filter in the other vaccuum.

Feeling accomplished but tired.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 12 Oct 13 - 03:01 PM

(((((((Maggie))))))))) Saying goodbye is always so hard. What I think is wonderful is that you let her know her dog would be in a good home, loved and cared for....what a gift that was!!! So very thoughtful.

XOXOXOOX

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Oct 13 - 03:04 PM

Sounds not only efficient for both of you but therapeutic as well!

I made blueberry muffins this morning and Susie walked down for tea and muffins. Her new dogs spent a good night, they walked this morning and they're very good on the leash, didn't tug at all, just walked sedately beside her. This is exactly what Susie needs, well-behaved mellow big dogs. I've been working on a journal entry to examine this transfer - it took care of two women's deep-seated needs. One desired good homes for her pets after her death, the other needed dogs that would let her home feel complete after her own brush with mortality and dealing with the setback of a brain injury. After her injury it is like Susie had a stroke, a bit weak on the left side, and now she has dogs that won't overwhelm her physically yet are the size that she prefers.

I handed an eBay box to the mail carrier this morning, two more will be mailed early in the week when those auctions end. I'll go do some shopping, including turning in a glass order for a piece to top that buffet I've been working on. I need to get some knobs or handles for it also, but that can wait a bit. There is a hardware store in Dallas that I've been told will have just what I need.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Oct 13 - 03:45 PM

Two more hours cleaning/pricing.

There are two boxes of finicky little items left to clean and price, and 2 kitchen chairs to bring downstairs and price. About another 2-3 hour stint for tomorrow, I hope.

The trailer that will carry all this priced stuff out back for me is in position, ready to load. So far each box or barrel is well-sorted stuff which should be simple enough to lay out on Sale Day.

So far I have only taken back 3 hand-tatted doilies-- framed, they will be good reminders in our retirement, of those wonderful women in this wonderful community-- and a box of fabric scraps I now want to insert into a memory album and I have an empty one upstairs to use as a winter scissors project. There is also a brand-new kingsize quilt I may allocate to the camper, if it doesn't sell... at the time I allocated it to the sale we HAD a good camper quilt, but now we don't and the colors are perfect.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 12:44 AM

One of my eBay boxes was purchased by a brand-new eBay member (feedback score of "0") in Pakistan. To send that $12 tea maker would cost something over $50. I don't think they researched the shipping when they saw the auction price, so I've sent a note asking if they realized the high cost of shipping (it's posted on the auction). If they don't want it we can cancel the auction before it counts against them.

I finished some shopping and have the dishes ready to start in the dishwasher. I spent some time in the garden and tomorrow will cut up a bunch of peppers to freeze. I policed the back yard and dumped the compost bucket and the dog droppings into the compost pile (the dog droppings are what keep the dogs out of the food in the compost). It was miserably muggy all day; we didn't get any rain, but there is a 50% chance tomorrow. Fingers crossed!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 09:20 AM

Just read this article in one of the local free weeklies and think it belongs here --
Dwelling In Possibility

Had trouble getting to sleep last night so it was probably around 1 a.m. when I last turned out the light. Then I woke up at 5:30 wide awake with a cat perched on my hip and "Strike the Bell" still in my head from a dream but being pushed out by the Makem Brothers' "It's Been a Very Hard Year" as I woke up. That was odd -- I usually have several songs segueing in my mind, but never one dream and one waking at almost the same moment.

Then I ended up having to eliminate not one, but two (count 'em) yellow jackets buzzing sequentially around my bedside lamp before 6 a.m.

Talked to Tom. He's now able to eat a very small breakfast which will probably have to hold him all day (except for small, spaced amounts of coffee). I've got a bunch of small things (and phone calls) before I head over there...including finding another book to keep in my purse since I finished my purse book yesterday while he was napping.

Right now I need to eat something (after I wash the pan and a few more things stacked in the sink); I'm famished.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 12:40 PM

So much for some of the eBay easy re-listing features - it means you don't see the auction text and can trip yourself up. I shifted an item from a higher price with free shipping to a lower price with shipping added - but didn't see the copy to remove the free shipping line in the ad. So I honored the item but basically just gave away the item. I looked at the item the person in Pakistan bought - there is no free shipping mentioned anywhere in there. I want to let them off the hook so I can relist - I sent a note, and then this morning I sent the invoice, so I hope to get a response later in the day when their side of the planet is in sunshine.

There has been a bug going through the office - I am wondering if I caught a whiff of it. Yesterday the gut was upset/decluttered and I seemed to be blowing my nose all evening. If I'd eaten anything this morning I think the upset would continue.

I've moved a couple of more pairs of pants to the "can now fit into" part of my closet. Good timing, I got rid of a pair I wear for work in the yard because they were falling off of me. I was down to one pair of jeans and they're in the laundry this morning. :)

It hasn't rained yet but the odds are greater this afternoon and evening that we'll get some. Another warm muggy day in Texas in the meantime. I have to harvest a lot of the garden and have invited my ex over to come pick cherry tomatoes, after which I need to cut up and freeze most of it. I also need to go fix Susie's router and modem. Consider this a short unordered list of things to work on today.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 03:31 PM

Pricing DONE. Tasks left:

Run minimal Pennysaver ad tomorrow morning.
Make boxes for road corner signs and affix signs.
Load trailer in front n unload in back (hubby power).
Borrow hangers from church.
Hang clothing n linens fr upright trailer ramp.
Pick up color printer ribbon.
Get change fr bank.
Make sign for trailer-displayed item price display (clothing or linens not in priced ziploc bags, $1.00 OBO).
Set up yard decor n balloons.
Set out road signs.
Lock hse n open sale w dog.
Make BIG BUCKS and new friends!
Take pix for freecycling any items not sold.
Load all unsold items on trailer (wrapped in clear plastic) and cover with tarp.
Drive FC-unclaimed items to Goodwill (they unload! !!).


The FC items can be hand-carried one batch at a time to the front porch for hassle-free pickup, making a daily walk for me and Faulkner.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 06:33 PM

Worked on firewood all day.

Kinda digging on Susan's list, maybe I'll make one and post here. I will be gathering stuff for the yard sale on Friday and Saturday. Prime location on both days, advertising already done for one at no charge to me...YAY! Signage too!

Homework for my class is done plus an extra chapter. YAY ME!

No sewing time. BOO.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 07:18 PM

I got out to dig in the garden this afternoon and cleared an area for onions and garlic. My ex came over and picked tomatoes. I was going to help Susie with her router but never got to that. Maybe tomorrow evening, I suspect it will be an easy fix.

Laundry goes in soon, and I'll do some more work in the living room to see about getting set up for spreading out sewing projects. I have a large piece of paper to do a template for the glass on the top of that buffet, so I'll finish it and be ready to take to the glass shop this week.

For now, I'm going to go cut up green peppers to put in the freezer. I used a couple to make a batch of Kung Pao Chicken (like they make at Panda Express, if you have it in your area). Squash (I used a yellow instead of a zucchini, but they taste the same), large chunks of onion, green pepper, canned mushrooms, large dice chicken (because it was a cooked breast I cut up) and a handful of salted peanuts, seasoned with a squirt of Hoisin sauce. Mmmmmm!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 08:33 PM

Net result of pricing being done is that the largest section of our front porch is now cleared of For Sale items and I can get back to keeping the house neat whole I polish off the rest of the tasks for the sale, at my own (slow) pace. I can walk out my front door onto my ramp and all I see are full bins of sorted items to lay out, and some trash to sweep up and bag. That leaves room for my scooter and our snow blower out there, YAY!!! With lots of turning space!

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 10:49 PM

Had a nice conversation with Pete tonight about the unplanned upcoming yard sale. We made a nice list/start of things to gather tomorrow and mark (mostly larger things) and then I have things in storage at a friend's house of leftover, already marked gear from the yard sale in July. YAY. It is my understanding that I have a six foot table to work with so not loads of table space (on Saturday anyway), so I'm not going to stress about tons and tons of gear...I already got most of it out for the yard sale in July.

In addition to the yard sale, I have a retreat coming up to get ready for. We are all supposed to take a snack and you should see the kitchen of treats that always arrive but since I'm trying to be a bit more reasonable in my food choices, I'm looking for something simple and healthy to take besides the standard boring veggie or fruit tray (also it needs to be somewhat on the low cost side). I might just take cookies or something that I already have all the ingredients for and then make my OWN snack bag. There are a few things I'm digging on lately....Cortland apple slices with pumpkin pie spice sprinkled on for one! YUM.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 12:13 AM

I bought a bag of Cortland apples last week - we don't get them often but they are very good. And I was thinking about how to get a cinnamon boost on an apple this evening - I'll have to try that!

Some laundry done, the buffet measured and some stuff put away off of the dining table. And because we are at the cusp of cooler weather and I love a hot bath in cool weather, I did a major soap-scum removal scrub of the Mexican tile surround (I put it in) so it will look wonderful while soaking. I also gave the tub a thorough scrub.

The gut is still feeling a bit iffy so I'm taking it easy tomorrow. I'll set up the crock pot and make a batch of oatmeal for breakfast, and keep meals modest.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 12:24 PM

At last - a lazy rainy day. The table is cleared for sewing projects to set up today. Oatmeal for breakfast was wonderful (time to restock, I'm nearly out).

Wearing another pair of the size 12 pants today. The weight is headed downward again; I'd been on a plateau for many weeks, but I've made some changes and am back on course to lose the last 15 pounds.

Must address some of the paper piles around here today. It has built up in the last couple of weeks - most of it simply needs filing.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 02:29 PM

Respiratory system is still de-cluttering, loudly. Coughing is less. Still frequent but as long it is productive... A bit more energy each day. I was hoping R could put a frame in place today for a raised bed where I would plant all the perennials that are still in pots. That would have generated some energy for me. But he had to run back to the city.

I did get clothes into cupboards in the LR on Fri, relapsed after a couple hours at the Cafe in the eve, but each day a few things get accomplished. Dishes are caught up at last. Laundry - some is still on the line as it was not dry enough to take down. Maybe it is now. Today I brought the sewing machine in and have hope of getting a little done. Potted 3 small spider plants.

Amazingly, I realized phone was DEAD! this morning and quickly plugged it in, hoping my friend had not tried to phone. Five minutes later, he called to request assistance on Weds and Thursday. I am happy to go and help out. Hope the cough is more better but they are used to it. I hope to pick up some packaged Indian meals - cheap and tasty and Pat thought she would like them. It would be something she could prepare herself (Parkinson's but she can chop veggies), just need cooked rice on hand. I always have some in the cupboard for low energy or late coming home times.

The pottery studio has all its walls, fully enclosed with door to storage area and two small windows-that-open on north wall. Unfortunately, the glue in the plywood is overwhelming so I won't be able to work in there for a while yet. It looks terrific although the sunset wall will have to wait. Maybe Bruno will have time to put the big window-that -opens in but R does not want to put the door in until there is something to step out onto - rather than a 3 foot drop! I may try moving a wheel (on a wheeled platform) to a safe area so I can get some work down - when I have the energy. I ordered a face mask with charcoal filter which I hope will help me breathe safely in places like the toxic library.

In the non-de-cluttering category: R dragged in a yard sale lamp that I took one glance at and said, "NOOOOO!" But he insisted I look at it and now we are both fascinated by it. It is a (to me) ugly blue green colour with shade to match. Seems to be a cast-in-mold object but it has children's drawings very nicely scratched onto it: church, rainbow, parent figures, road, fenced field with a cow and a sheep,... colours carefully added as appropriate. Has place of honour in LR; I suppose I shall get used to the colour - someday.

He also brought a very nice bathtub which I hope to get to use someday. The bathroom is still not in line for construction. Kitchen is next, I hope.

I hoped I would have lost weight but although I have not eaten much, I have done very little. Oh well.

Sunshine!! I'll go check the laundry.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 03:56 PM

Tasks left:

Run minimal Pennysaver ad tomorrow morning.
Move filthy 20' tarp from front porch to back yard for rain to wash.
Plan rain alternatives: Use two canopies in camper to shelter tables; furniture and high-ticket items in camper; all camper windows left zipped open for viewing.
Make boxes for road corner signs and affix signs.
Load trailer in front n unload in back (hubby power).
Borrow hangers from church.
Hang clothing n linens fr upright trailer ramp.
Pick up color printer ribbon.
Get change fr bank.
Make sign for trailer-displayed item price display (clothing or linens not in priced ziploc bags, $1.00 OBO).
Set up yard decor n balloons.
Set out road signs.
Lock hse n open sale w dog.
Make BIG BUCKS and new friends!
Take pix for freecycling any items not sold.
Load all unsold items on trailer (wrapped in clear plastic) and cover with tarp.
Drive FC-unclaimed items to Goodwill (they unload!!!).

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 05:10 PM

I packed a box to ship today, then remembered that the post office is closed. I'll hand it to my mail carrier tomorrow.

This afternoon I drove over to the glass store to order the piece to put on top of my buffet. What an amazing place! They have lots of glass furnishings (including bent glass), mirrors, blown glass, plus the usual window glass. And they have lots of fixtures - hinges, knobs, drawer pulls, etc. I have a place in Dallas I was planning to drive to, but I may not need to make that trip. I'm not ready to buy the hardware, that will have to wait a little. This afternoon I'm going to dust each of the drawers and cut liner paper for them. I have lots of table cloths and linen napkins to take out of a trunk. I'll wash, iron, fold, and put them in the drawers. I can still open them without knobs, but the investment to buy the hardware is going to set me back enough that I have to pace myself.

The dining table is about to have the first project laid out on it. Luxury! A large flat workspace that isn't on the floor!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 07:44 PM

This morning started out really gloomy and gray but by mid afternoon the sun was out and I was thrilled to see that as I scheduled Jeremiah for a professional photo shoot today. We had so much fun and now I'm anxiously waiting to see the sneak peek that will come tonight! We had 3 outfit changes and two Halloween costumes.....had a blast!

Missed WW tonight though....bummer as I had a good week....will have to catch an alternate meeting later.

Time to make dinner...I'm making a chicken casserole that my nana loves and ALWAYS requests that I make for her. I might have to call her later tonight just to say NEENER NEENER! LOL

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 13 - 12:30 AM

Half of the bell peppers I picked the other day have been diced and spread on a baking sheet in the freezer. I'll do the other half tomorrow. Dishes put away, those in the sink washed. I pulled out some of the antique cloth napkins from a trunk in my front room and have them soaking in plain water to lift some of the brown age color. I found so many great items I've forgotten about, but I won't take them all out now. I can put a lot of it in this buffet. And as for the buffet, I finished lining the drawers and took a good look at a printout with a brass drawer pull I like - I do think the glass place I visited today has something very similar. I pick up the glass top after Wednesday.

I cleared the dining table and brought in a rotary pad and a rotary blade because I couldn't remember where my X-acto cutter and blades are. I looked through various desk drawers where some of that kind of thing is (and found plenty of other stuff I forgot about, but no knife.)

Those of you preparing for garage sales, I salute you! They're hard work, but when they happen on a good weekend with great weather they can be quite a success.

Cold weather is due to come through here tomorrow, so I'll dig out a sweater to wear to work. Finally!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 13 - 01:04 PM

Peppers are bagged, the rest will be cut up tonight. The water is lifting a fair amount of the sepia tone from those napkins, I've changed it out once already.

Still not feeling my best, but this is a modified fast day, so I think I'll be okay. I think my coworker had this bug for several days. Odd one. I'm making sure to wash my hands a lot.

Looks like a trip to the post office on the way out, my postal carrier must be running late with a heavier load of stuff today. No telecommuting this week, a form that is now required hasn't been approved yet. Still looking at other jobs.

Funeral tomorrow afternoon, funeral Saturday morning.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 15 Oct 13 - 01:29 PM

It's green pepper season around here too. We have plenty of our own (just for eating, not enough for freezing) but a friend has offered us a 5 gallon bucket of green peppers so I'll be chopping and freezing that much later tonight.

Today I've been working in my kitchen. Our fridge is the kind with the freezer on the bottom and generally it isn't used for much other than ice cream, half open bags of veggies and fish. It has also been used for extra zucchini bread, Vita-muffins, egg rolls, popsicles, etc. Well....I'm sorry to say that some of that stuff has been there a LONG time and just not even looked at so we have a lot of freezer burned stuff. I cleaned out the bottom drawer this morning and got rid of most of it. Then I brought in the veggies, fruits and meats I have planned for this week's meals. No going out in the mudroom in the dark (light switch is in a weird spot) to dig around in the freezer on a daily basis! YAY!! I worked on our budget, scanned the flyers for deals this week on groceries, made a menu for the week, pulled out any canned or boxed items I'll need, did dishes, am on my 2nd load of laundry and maybe I'll do floors today..maybe not. I have some homework to complete for my class (ahead in the reading but didn't do the workbook stuff..shame on me!). I should be at Sit & Sew today but I just have too many things around here that need attention and the house is bugging me. I'm hoping to get grocery shopping done when I pick up Jeremiah, have a little Mommy and Jeremiah time with a picnic dinner at the playground, then class and home.

Today I also pulled some stuff out of the kitchen that I just don't use anymore and put it in the yard sale pile. YAY.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 15 Oct 13 - 03:52 PM

Tasks left:

Make boxes for road corner signs and affix signs.
Load trailer in front n unload in back (hubby power).
Borrow hangers from church.
Hang clothing n linens fr upright trailer ramp.
Pick up color printer ribbon..
Set up yard decor n balloons.
Set out road signs.
Lock hse n open sale w dog.
Make BIG BUCKS and new friends!
Take pix for freecycling any items not sold.
Load all unsold items on trailer (wrapped in clear plastic) and cover with tarp.
Drive FC-unclaimed items to Goodwill (they unload!!!).

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 12:44 AM

As of now telecommuting is not allowed at work, unless for specific short-term tasks and one must file a five-page form in advance requesting said time and it must be approved first. If you have to work at home because of a delivery or plumber or something the dean doesn't expect that you're going to work 8 hours around the visit, she expects that you'll take some vacation time to cover the distracted period during an 8 hour work day. She is pulling every perk that we had, considering that we are so low paid so they made a difference. Putting more pressure on those who were displaced to move along, out of the library.

It sucks.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 08:49 AM

In this big ole house we are two people getting stronger and one critter getting creakier, and we do not want to buy anything new for anyone because we are saving all possible resources for our retirement home. So--

<> The electric lift recliner I no longer need is on the way out to whoever needs it next

<> A Salvation Army chair for which I have a coordinating ottoman is on the way in, and will hold a lot of the foam that used to customize the lift chair to my back

<> The folding cot I'd sold my 2nd autoharp to buy may have gotten too damaged to use-- gotta check out the frame-- but in the meantime it is a nicely narrow, cushy cot well off the floor for poor achy Faulkner. (The FC electric blanket on the floor was too wide and too easily stepped on. Now it hangs down to make a kitteh kave and a little under-bed stowage space for items we need at hand but out of sight such as extra bedding for cold winter evenings, winter boots....). Damn dog slept in it when it was in the van anyhow-- he already thinks he owns it. So I added a pillow I'd been sitting on, in the lift chair that had almost zero padding left, to at least remind him that it's actually mommeh's cot and he must share if asked. And it's long enough to hold him and a cat or two, too.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 09:59 AM

Cold this morning! Relatively, at any rate. Not as cold as Montana, but we have finally shifted into full autumn weather. Pulling sweaters out of the closet. Starting with dark clothes for a funeral this afternoon (I received a note about it last night - I wasn't sure if I'd be going because it seems to be a private ceremony, but a few of us in the library received the invitation and I'll be sure to go.)

I have more cotton bedding to put out in the garage for the dogs, and this weekend I'll do some work on the stall (I need to make it a bit wider to accommodate another dog house). It won't be cold in there for a while yet - they came into the house to eat this morning right out of their beds - all three were warm and smelled like sleeping dogs. If you own dogs you know they have their own sleepy smell, just like sleeping children, etc.

Much to do today.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 01:42 PM

Sign boxes made (YUCK!) and hand-made afghan packaged-- it's a neat Ladies' Sample Squares afghan, knit and crocheted, multicolored. I added an extra pillow to bulk it up for display and stuffed it into one of those clear-plastic, zippered comforter big-box-store-packaging thingies.

So tasks left:

Dust off two ladies' suits, and hang them in dry cleaners' plastic to keep them dry in case of forecast sale day rain.
Dust off two ladderback chairs and take the 2nd one out front.
Load trailer in front n unload in back (hubby power).
Borrow hangers from church.
Hang clothing n linens fr upright trailer ramp.
Pick up color printer ribbon.
Set up yard decor n balloons.
Set out road signs.
Lock hse n open sale w dog.
Make BIG BUCKS and new friends!
Take pix for freecycling any items not sold.
Load all unsold items on trailer (wrapped in clear plastic) and cover with tarp.
Drive FC-unclaimed items to Goodwill (they unload!!!).

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Oct 13 - 01:19 AM

I had an "aha" moment today, reading an article about a new book about Jeff Bezos of Amazon - and it merged with that article I posted (probably on facebook) about your clutter or your life - that we have an awful lot of entertainment cluttering our lives. At this point I have NetFlix, and if I add Amazon Prime that covers about anything I can think of that I want to watch either on DVD or streaming. I have favorite DVDs I'll keep here but I'm going to finish culling the VCR tapes of all but the most rare that may not be easy to get elsewhere, and move the home-recorded ones to place where I can go through them and discard a whole bunch more. That'll clear out a few more cubic feet of space.

I suppose I could donate the commercial tapes, but I don't know if even the Goodwill can sell them much any more. I have a few of the nicely boxed Disney ones the kids had that are now out on DVD and BluRay.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bettynh
Date: 17 Oct 13 - 10:25 AM

Don't trash the kids' tapes, SRS. At my yard sales I found that some families, primarily not-rich, have put together super-cheap entertainment corners for kids with ultra-cheap VCRs, old TVs and video tapes. Very cheap or free quality kids' movies would be VERY welcome. For that matter, shelters and daycare centers probably have taken the same route.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Oct 13 - 12:38 PM

I could send them all over to the Goodwill - they would put them in their VCR tape section. I remember now that they have a whole shelf opposite the book area. Thanks, Betty!

This week is crawling along. Friday complex with meetings and a photo shoot. Saturday morning there is another funeral. Still sorting photo files at work and finding remnants at home to bring in for the archives. When all of this is out of the way I need to put on the boots and dig up the garden, as much for the therapeutic energy discharge as for my fall crop (I picked up a bunch of broccoli bedding plants yesterday).

I'll get my buffet top glass tomorrow, that will be a nice step in the transformation of this old veneered dresser - it had good "bones" but didn't look like anything elegant. This has been an exercise in creating something new from the old piece.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 17 Oct 13 - 06:13 PM

I have a DVD/VCR combo machine and have quite a fabulous collection of kid's videos that I picked up for .50 or less (usually a quarter) at the Salvation Army. People upgrade their machines and have no use for the VCR tapes anymore....suits me just fine! :) I've gotten rid of many VCR movies but did keep a solid 20 or so that are our favorites. I can't see ditching them to repurchase in another media mode.

I had a nice lunch with my mom today and then did my grocery shopping. It's the first time I've been in over 3 weeks (with the exception of milk, bread and fruit once a week). I spent quite a while going through the sale papers and planning our menus for the next few weeks and am happy to say I came in quite a bit under budget! YAY.

While unloading the car I dropped some papers on the ground. Of course I was holding far too many bags at once on my left arm and when I bent over, something in my chest seized up...painful...not good. It has happened before...I have a nerve in there that doesn't like when I move just so. YOUCH. So now I'm taking it easy. All the freezer and fridge stuff is away and the rest can wait a little bit.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Oct 13 - 09:26 PM

Careful, Michelle. I think I have that same "nerve," and another mudcatter pointed out that I might have a small haital hernia. I asked my GP and was told it isn't a problem as long as it doesn't effect eating and swallowing. I'm sure he said more, that's what I remember.

I'll get any of my extra stuff done tomorrow morning because I have meetings in the afternoon and evening. I'll pick up my glass for the buffet and take over the information about my first choice of brass hardware and compare it to what they have in the store. It would be marvelous to finish this whole thing this weekend, but it depends on the price of the hardware.

Linn, I hope you're giving yourself all of the opportunities you can to get naps and a good night's sleep. If you don't get enough sleep you won't be able to stay healthy to help Tom.

Sweaters soaking, bathrobe laid out with replacement collar fabric, various small maintenance activities taken care of. I may do a little ironing this evening after I finish folding the laundry. Lots of puttering.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 12:29 PM

Headed out to pick up my glass, and then maybe a little time in the garden before heading to work.

This is one of those weeks when you count the days, and when you get through a day and are ready to turn off the bedside light and go to sleep you can count it as a success. This is a weekend involved with the funeral on Saturday morning and Susie and I are going to do some modem and router troubleshooting (I'll check her system before we leave for the funeral, and since the place where I buy electronics is over near the funeral, we'll make that stop later and finish up the morning at Susie's with an up and running home network for her.)

A few more tapes are in the donation box. I have been comparing services for viewing programs (Hulu, NetFlix, Amazon Prime) and if I find them streaming then there are sets of tapes that were recorded at home that can be recycled. Home recordings can't be sold for obvious copyright reasons.

The new collar is pinned in place on the bathrobe, and next I'll use more of the replacement fabric and create a yoke that will serve as an interfacing attached to the new collar. This way I'll sew it in place under the collar on the back side and tack it down along the top edge of the collar and the yoke facing will help anchor it inside. Hard to visualize, perhaps, but think about a yoke on the robe, just on the inside as a facing instead of on the outside. This is because the collar is so thick (this is a heavy tight terry cloth) I can't sew through all of these layers.

I just got off the phone with the woman who has been finding homes for the pets of my coworker. I think the retriever mix will be coming over to join her sisters. She's really depressed right now. It was a tearful phone call - we both remembered the point when I put the two dogs in my pickup and the third one didn't understand, wanted to get in also. :(

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Claire M
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 02:15 PM

Hiya,

I loved Disney, but couldn't convert my vhs to dvd, & there was only 3 I watched regularly anyway. Much prefer[red] the older versions of the stories, still do; write this type of thing myself – old fashioned language & all – & am hoping to get them published.

Finished w/ angel books lent to me.

We've got a tombola coming up, so may donate said unplayed cds to that/flatmates. Probably tombola cos people are very finicky re their stuff here [even when it was/is unwanted before & think when anything is donated it's been left here by mistake.

Hesitate to call them flatmates anymore cos every time our paths cross most of them complain about something/nag – they've nothing to take their minds off things/escape into, in the same way I have, so any conversation we *do* end up having is ½ - ♥-ed. I've been here for 1 bloody yr & it's still the same. The Consort likes to chat & find out things as I do, but he tends to get avoided, & nobody bar me seems to listen to him, which makes him cross. I'm ripped apart by pain on a regular basis while waiting for wheelchair assessment but unless it's *really* bad you don't catch me snapping @ everyone.

I want Merlin [collie]

Requiem Aeturnum, dona ei, Domine......

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 03:09 PM

Hardi found some nice items-- 2 SLR/film cameras-- to add to the sale. I added our old fairly-new blender and a small food processor.

The sun just came out; after a lazy start to the day, doing laundry, and cooking (I drove to Rochester and back yesterday), we're heading out to load up the trailer in the sunshine so I can start setting up tables and laying out merch. Minimal chance of rain tomorrow, towards the evening-- YAY! I have a 22' tarp to cover the merch. We decided to post a guard overnight since heroin has hit the county big this year.

Done:
Dust off two ladies' suits, and hang them in dry cleaners' plastic to keep them dry in case of forecast sale day rain.
Dust off two ladderback chairs and take the 2nd one out front.

Doing now:
Load trailer in front n unload in back (hubby power).
Hang clothing n linens fr upright trailer ramp.
Lay out merch.

Tasks left:
Pick up color printer ribbon.
Set up yard decor n balloons.
Set out road signs.
Lock hse n open sale w dog.
Make BIG BUCKS and new friends!
Take pix for freecycling any items not sold.
Load all unsold items on trailer (wrapped in clear plastic) and cover with tarp.
Drive FC-unclaimed items to Goodwill (they unload!!!).

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 06:22 PM

Special thanks to Hardi for helping me unpack it all and price a few last-added items. I'm getting too old for this! But it was great to be alive to do it!

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 06:36 PM

The glass top looks wonderful, and I selected a set of antique brass drawer handles. I was originally thinking about using bin pulls, but the one I really liked was discontinued and I needed 7 of them. This dresser/buffet isn't huge (48" wide, 18" deep) so I don't want them to be the wrong scale for the piece. They have a little grain pattern on each side, and I found two brass knobs in the same family for the cupboard doors. I'll make a template to fit the drawers for the new holes (I don't know if these will fit the old hole pattern, but I suspect not. I need to wood putty and paint those.) Okay, it was a "free" dresser and I've turned it into a black lacquered buffet with a glass top. Total the glass, hardware, and paint (I had the wood putty already for filling in the veneer gaps and I think I had the plywood for the shelf and the doors) is just under $150. I couldn't have bought this for that, probably, but my point is that "there is no such thing as a free buffet" if you decide to convert a piece of furniture. Photos to follow. It has been an interesting exercise. I'm a messy painter and have a couple of spots to touch up and I need to use a stripper to take off some smears on the sides of the drawers.

This weekend I'll launder and iron some of the antique table cloths and napkins to put in the buffet. And I have a heavy silver platter on the top that needs to be polished. I want my dining area to be ready to entertain people so I don't have to scramble to get set. Art and Jenn Brooks will be coming through town in a couple of weeks, maybe we will sit down there to have dinner. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 19 Oct 13 - 11:10 AM

Well...no yard sale for me this morning. We have something family related that came up and that comes first. All the tagged things will stay tagged until probably the spring and that's ok. Family first. ALways.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 19 Oct 13 - 05:32 PM

YARD SALE REPORT:

Our little maiden yard sale was great! Just the right amount and flow of traffic, and all advertising and signage was fruitful. Things sold at (or very near) marked pricing.

I gave away a few items people needed and could not buy. Faulkner was a superb partner, discerning who belonged here and who did not. I will def do this annually, and as we continue to prepare for downsizing I anticipate more and larger pieces each year.

Using the camper was a hit also, as my base of ops. Keep-dry items were displayed in there and, prob because I had all the windows zipped open, no one felt funny about going in there.

My previous retail experience was helpful in how items were grouped and displayed, as well as in how I interacted with buyers.


Some huge plusses I cannot empahasize enough--

1. Hardi came along about 1pm and brought me lunch and a spare pair of hands for a bit. He also took down some of the signage while I took down other signage. THANK YOU HUBBY!

2. My ADA scooter was a wonderful help. I still got in more than the PT's walking assignment for the day, and the scooter gave me fast mobility all around the property. This meant that I was not pinned down to the sale table, and could still meet buyers as they arrived.

3. Altho the rain held off (TBTG) till an hour before closing, I was so rain-prepped that I was able to relax and enjoy folks as they scurried in hoping to beat the rain. And none of the merch got soaked.


A friend I had hoped could drop by and give me a pee break phoned at the last half hour, while I sat on the dry porch for the last of the advertised "open" time. We had a great visit!

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Oct 13 - 07:36 PM

Dog transfer didn't happen today, it will tomorrow, then Susie's house will truly have lots of dogs. We'll work out a dedicated set of pooper scooper equipment and I think this will be a grandson chore.

After a short nap I'm going to create a template for my dresser hardware and get to work. Lots of great PBS viewing on Saturday nights, so it is a good evening to work in the living room and have the big TV on.

Getting ready to run a load of whites that have been soaking in an oxy bleach all day. They are napkins and such that will go in the new buffet. And I'll get out another set to soak and so do them in small batches.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 02:07 AM

I am dumbfounded. Another death at work - this time the husband of a woman who retired earlier this year. More photos to dig out.

This evening I used wood putty and filled in the holes from the former drawer pulls on that buffet I'm working on. I was going to simply drill new holes using a template, but I need to do two things - make the template more robust (cardboard isn't enough, it has to be a piece of wood) and then fill those existing holes since the new holes are very close to the old ones. I'll need to stagger them a little higher to avoid the new holes merging with the old ones. I think filling the old ones first will make the new holes easier to put in. The drill bit less likely to drift.

The kitchen is looking pretty good, it took only a few minutes to clear off the peninsula counter. Hand washables out of the way, the rest of the laundry gets washed tomorrow. I finally sold one of the eBay items that has been relisted many times. It's a bulky box, so shipping this on Monday will clear part of the bench the boxes were stacked on. Tomorrow I have to spend some time doing serious dusting. It is piling up again.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 12:12 PM

Just a note to say if you want to know what I'm up to, check the "Curmudgeon In Hospital" thread.

Laundry done and about to be dried. Dishwasher emptied. Brunch (breakfast sandwiches) made and eaten.

Now to spiffify just a little bit before friends bring over a recliner for Tom and take the old chair away. Have to remove slip cover, etc.

Yeah, this is how I'm relaxing today.

I do intend to make a rum cake later. I've very much been craving one. Bought whipped cream the other day specifically for it.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 12:14 PM

This morning I was digging into a trunk looking for more table linen items, mostly napkins or things to be used as napkins. This is full of all sorts of stuff, including things like a whole bunch of fancy antimacassars. Any of you need to visit your dictionaries for that one? Surprised I knew it? I did. They are the small and often crocheted or tatting lacy pieces of cloth that go on the arms or backs of chairs to keep them clean (the cloths themselves were regularly laundered). Meant to keep the macassar oil that was used on the hair off of the furniture or clothing.

Your bit of trivia for the day.

I thought I knew everything in this trunk, it was packed in 1984 by my friend Emma. I knew her from my years in college when I worked up in the mountains each summer. We stayed close friends and I knew she loved antiques so I flew her to Connecticut to help with my great aunt's estate. She boxed up glass, crystal, silver, and tons of textiles. This trunk is her last surprise for me - down in the bottom under the rolls of Irish linen and antimacassars were two heavy boxes, mostly silver spoons (plate) but a few old family gems brought from Ireland. I'm sure she picked these up and put them in the trunk unexamined, and now I'm finding the pieces my great aunt and her sisters and mother used and ordered (lots of Betty Crocker coupon orders of various silver plate patterns.) I visited Emma with my son in tow last summer - and found that she has Alzheimers. She remembered me, but after I introduced my grown up son it didn't register that he was the little boy she was asking me about. I'm sure my son saw my face, my realization that this friend is slipping away. This needs to become a thoughtful essay.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 01:17 PM

Okay, all the spiffification that I can do without totally collapsing is done. Chair is moved to close to the door, for easier removal.

Rufus will have to play in the cellar for awhile when they get here.

As soon as they leave, I have to take some Rxs to the pharmacy for pick up tomorrow. I have to photocopy them now, so Tom's cardiologist and PCP knows what they are when we see them this week.

I really don't feel like going out, but it will be okay.

Then I'm under-reacting again and reading. Maybe the rum cake won't get made today. That's okay, too.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Claire M
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 02:47 PM

Hiya,

Sorry, was bit stressed. Took Merlin over to visit friend who was/is ill & wanted a dog kiss.

He can be quite forthright [friend, not Merlin] ; he was asking me about moving out of where I/we live. Maybe a goal for a few yrs ahead but not now; ideas were/are very iffy [will keep you updated if this website's still up] Had to explain that what I might *want* isn't necessarily what ends up happening.

Nov approaches fast, & so does the Wintersmith Tour, & with it, my bowel-loosening horror of it being the last one. I toss & turn; I yearn to dance the Dark Morris once again.

Luv & Loads of Leaves
Time I was away..........

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 01:23 AM

This has been a day for clearing work surfaces. I put away stuff in the garage on the workbench so I could cut a plank to the right size to use as a template for my drawer pulls on the buffet. I drilled one set of holes on a narrow top drawer and it looks great - I put the drilling on pause and went back and retouched the spots where the wood putty is from the old holes. The middle drawer on top used to pull open from a finger groove on the bottom of the drawer face, but now with a cupboard below it needs a handle. So, two drawers and the cupboard knobs are in place now and I can see this will look lovely when finished. Once it is complete I can clear some of the dining table stuff into it and back out to the garage.

I've been washing some of the napkins and other textiles from the old trunk - soaking in plain water for a couple of days with a few changes of the water, and then giving a few hours with oxy bleach added, and a couple of gentle washes in the washer, one of them with a little bit of chlorine bleach. I'll iron a few of them before I go to bed tonight to see how they look.

I'm about to another point to purge some things from the closet. There is a pair of jeans in particular that has been remarkably adjustable to all of my sizes from the top (they were pretty darned tight, but wearable) to now (they're too long and about to fall off).

I left for a while this afternoon and went with Susie to take the newest dog to the vet. She does have a bladder infection, and is on antibiotics for the next two weeks. These dogs are what Susie needed to set her household to as close to the old "normal" as possible, after her injuries and recovery last year. My co-worker was so ill that she couldn't care well for them in the last year. People donated dog food, and in the last few months her parents have been at the house caring for the dogs and their daughter. The dogs have been overfed and have been eating the cheapest dog food available at Walmart. Before any more vet visits for skin and gunky ears happen, they need to transition to a healthy diet and each get a thorough grooming visit. That may well be enough.

It feels like fall now. I love this cooler weather, and I've been enjoying more of my herbal teas. I pulled a bag of bulk steel cut oats out of the freezer and have filled my canister for the oatmeal season. For tomorrow morning I have my little crock pot in place.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 08:05 AM

In the city since Friday night - ICK!

Spent most of Weds and Thurs with my friend (Parkinson's) and met her morning caregiver. She was upset all afternoon at having, basically, been forced to take a shower in the morning; she felt it caused her to have more difficulty all day. Raises, again, the question of autonomy. So much has been taken away, so much she cannot do. "I used to be the one in charge," is a wistful refrain. Consulted with her husband yesterday and he has sorted that out. Caregiver thought she had to take orders from the daughter regardless of what the mom wanted. I held my tongue at the time (yay for me!)

De-tox baths on Thurs eve, Sat aft, Sun (3:30 am!), Sun aft and Mon aft. Each one involved a few hours of recoup time but have collectively helped reduce the coughing.

Fri, I went down to the mill and found the pollution due to construction too much and sat in the car reading until time to go to cafe- terrific music of Kim and Eddie Lawrence! R never made it so I phoned him so he could listen to two songs. Then I drove back to the city.

The finishing was done on the sun space and LR. Today, work is starting on the K!!!!! R went down last night. I will go down after rush hour so I can have some input. May be able to do some work in studio, she says hopefully. ---Nice thought but I just realized the cough needs another hot bath - which is now running. I'll see how I feel after that.

Yesterday, I went to the market and bought all manner of lovely fruit and veggies, made split pea soup and readied a brussel sprouts to-be-cooked mixture. Now in frig as R never came home! I bought the whole stalk of sprouts and that is going to be more meals than I considered at the time!

I managed to clean up the dirt from R working on putting a new toilet in the downstairs - one that does not need to be flushed with a bucket, a really nice thing to look forward to but a longer term project than at first thought. Dealing with an OLD house, having to go into the dirt cellar to work on water... Arghhh! Glad it is not me doing it!

Next stop - hot bath.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 12:20 PM

Working around the house this morning, checking web sites, then an hour in the garden. If I can get the one closest to the kitchen door weeded then I will be able to put in broccoli. The potatoes will go on the other side of the driveway later, but I need to work the soil now.

Cycling through cracked and dry hands because I accidentally got into coconut last week. I asked the co-worker who bakes to put a note on the item if it has coconut or chocolate.

The ants that were around the den fireplace last week seem to be finding their way into the master bathroom this week (these rooms are separated by a wall). I'll have to spray spinosad on the countertop to convince them that there is nothing there for them. It's the time of year when so many of these things move indoors. I should have a lizard come in and police the counter for me. :)

I've sold all but two recent eBay listings. One is in a "unpaid item claim" status (I set it up to automatically run after four days. Since I only take PayPal there is no reason to wait a week for a payment, there is no check in the mail.) Another has been relisted. I have some interesting advertising circular things that I found in the trunk this week that I'll list, plus the envelopes that they arrived in. Amazing what people collect, and ephemera is one of those things that was supposed to be thrown away so is all the more interesting. I'll relist that one item soon. I suspect that brand-new eBay user who bought this item won't last long, the first time out they messed up.

I'll post photos when I finish the buffet.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 04:27 PM

Post-sale activities are puttering along. One load went to Goodwill and another is packed to load and go on my next trip thataway. That leaves a large FreeCycle listing to cover the items still on the canopy-protected table and, inside the camper, piles of fabric items. Nice ones to church thrift shop and the rest to Goodwill, but I can work on them in the rainy days ahead. The camper is sked for foldup on Monday so that's my deadline.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 08:23 PM

Took that bath instead of going to the country. Good thing as R was already back in the city having given instructions re K. I do not like not being there; wondering how it will all turn out. Kitchen is, to me, the most important room of all and I do not trust anyone to do it right - my way.

Today's bath wiped me out; I had to get out without taking a shower then go back up and shower off the salt after a period of recuperation. Then I had almost enough energy to pot - but not quite. Put heat on so it will be warm enough when I do have the energy.

R came in for late lunch, then for supper, turned off the water to work on toilet, then went off to visit a friend. ????

Coughing all day today after almost none yesterday. Used all the possible bits of my sage plant to make tea - without killing it! Then walked to grocery for a packet of fresh sage. Cannot remember what I did differently to stop the cough yesterday; nothing working today.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 08:39 PM

Another load to Goodwill and tables returned to church.

I'm going to be in a new PT mode. I had funding help for 12 aquatic PT co-pys and have progressed quickly thru 7 of these, but am still testing very weak. So instead of twice a week for 2 more weeks we are going to once weekly, for 4 weeks, and I start weekly and then oftener trips to the health club to do the same routine in cold water that I have been doing in warm PT water.

We're finding muscles that have NEVER worked before, pre-surgery. I like 'em!

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 08:40 PM

I hope you find the right combination, Dorothy, then share the recipe with us! Good work, Susan, on your sale. Did you sell most of it? Was it nice weather?

Michelle, did you get a lot of sewing done? I saw a note that you were heading into your sewing room. I've started clearing all of the odds and ends off of the sewing desk in my guest/sewing room. First I need to tackle a bunch of mending that can be done by machine, and then I have some new things to actually make. :)

I was able to shop my closet this morning and pulled out a lovely gray knit cardigan with pearl snaps that now looks good. My arms were too fat for a long time to wear it. And I am wearing a ring I haven't had on in ages. The cooler weather helps, I don't store water as much as when it's hot.

This is my late night at work and I head in early tomorrow to take a service desk shift for a coworker, so there won't be much time to do anything, though I may see about doing a couple of more drawer pulls on the buffet. What I have done looks great and I want to finish that so I can photograph it and post the before and after photos. It is a striking difference that I'm quite pleased with.

One of the lectures I set up is happening tomorrow and I'll be there to listen and take photos. Another reminder of how uninteresting things have become. That's why the successful completion of projects at the house is all the more important.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 10:17 PM

I did spend the day in my sewing room but I didn't get any sewing done at all. I don't even have my machine out. However, I did a LOT of cutting! I am going to a 3 day quilting retreat soon and would love to get there with everything all cut so I can just sew and sew and sew. :) I also did a fair amount of ironing today (fabric, not clothes...LOL..I never iron clothing).

I also made a GIANT batch of Shepherd's Pie. Several single serve containers to freeze, some for dinner and a large foil pan to deliver to someone I met by chance....a man my mom's age who has a 33 year old daughter who had an aneurysm and then a seizure....she was being moved out of ICU into a long term facility yesterday. His wife is with the daughter in another state and he is alone....he cried and cried...said it was the first time he really had done that. So he's alone and so sad....just broke my heart...had to do something so I made him lots to eat as I bet he isn't cooking for himself. I delivered it today....he met me with a HUGE smile. :)

Michelle who felt that smile for hours afterwards

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Oct 13 - 01:02 AM

Such a nice thing to do for him! Thank you for being the sweetheart you are to see that need and filling it! I wish I could say I'd done anything even slightly as helpful as that.

Just a little time this evening to read and chill after working late. I'm headed to bed and out early tomorrow.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Oct 13 - 10:25 AM

SRS, the big-ticket items did sell (fast!) and a lot of the clutter, too.

To the PT-pool stuff above, I would add that we also have a good plan to build a simple (cheap!) home gym out on my ramp and front porch, since I love to be outside huffing and sweating in the winter. Now that the Yard Sale stuff ain't out there, I'm claiming that real estate before it re-cluts!

I have 90% of what the gym will include, already, up in the MudAttic, where I worked out after my first round of PT. Now I wanna be OUTside. A metabolism will do that for ya.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 23 Oct 13 - 01:18 PM

I went for a walk this morning in my own neighborhood which means BIG hills. :)

More fabric cutting for me today...so far I have another baby quilt cut and ready to sew and am working on 4 table runners.

I got information to my insurance company to have a procedure pre-approved and set up meetings for the next few months for a group I'm part of.

Also, a 50 mile round trip this morning for some errands.

Later today we have a parent/teacher conference to attend! I'm excited about that!

Lots of busy little things going on. :)

Life is good!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Oct 13 - 08:16 PM

Got the last of the yard sale items listed on FreeCycle finally! Now, just the clothes and linens to sort, inside the camper, nice and dry and warm! An hour's worth of work.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 02:03 AM

I finished most of that new buffet I'm working on, converted from a nicely made but dated dresser that had distressed veneer. Now it has black high gloss enamel (I later saw something about "ebonizing" furniture - that would be interesting) and a glass top. I've been putting on the drawer and cupboard pulls, and found that one of the seven pulls was from the wrong bin at the glass shop with all of the great cabinet hardware. I'll swap it out tomorrow.

There is a grocery bag packed with several pounds of old VCR tapes. I took a bag of them to work this morning and I'll take more tomorrow. This will clear out several cubic feet of space in the bookcases.

I signed a title transfer form at work today for all of the publications and photos I turned over to the university archivist. I have an estimated 11.25 linear feet of shelf space now of my work in Special Collections. That doesn't count all of the gigabytes of stuff I turned over as well. This is prints and publications from the first 7 or 8 years of work.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 10:01 AM

The downward slope of the week toward the weekend, but a truck repair looms. The drips of oil on the driveway speak volumes, so I'll make an appointment for Saturday to take it to the dealer (I live about 3 blocks away or I wouldn't use that as my first choice for repairs). Expedience and not having to sit in a waiting room for hours makes it worthwhile.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 10:48 AM

Started to feel sort of caught up yesterday, even though it was a pretty busy day.

I finally got the bread pudding made that I'd started on Sunday. Also got the chowder for supper made before we left the house to get to Tom's late afternoon PCP appointment.

The chowder turned out WONDERFUL -- probably due to the smoked scallops I found at the fish market Saturday when I went to pick up some finnan haddie.

Tom's physical therapist came around noon and he was able to figure out what caused the wheelchair to collapse (seat not clicked into the lock on the front -- not set up properly when it was delivered) plus showed us all the other features of the chair. It's a really good safe and sturdy one. Would have been nice if the delivery person had given us the short course as he was supposed to.

So, the visiting nurse just left, I've got Tom's bedclothes in the washer, the wheelchair guy is coming between 10 and 2, then I can go out and pick up a couple things. And I just set up a meeting with Tom's case manager from CFI/Medicaid for Monday to maybe get me some housekeeping help/relief so I can concentrate on the other stuff. He's also put in for an emergency call button for Tom so Tuesday's experience will never be repeated.

Things under control.

So...I've invited Jeri to supper tonight ("leftover" chowder) but haven't yet heard back from her. I'm making a rum cake (which I've been craving for WEEKS) anyway no matter what I hear from her!

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 01:10 PM

I just heard that a friend who has been financially strapped for years has qualified for social security at a level much higher than he expected. It still won't cover all of the rent, but it is a huge help nonetheless. That is a relief!

Linn, sometimes a small thing like the perfect ingredient can make your whole day or week, can't it?

I can't get them to look at the truck until Monday, so I made an appointment to get myself in line for the work. The guy said this still doesn't guarantee they'll get to it - what does "appointment" mean to them, I wonder? I'll pull my "you wouldn't let your mother drive out of here without popping the hood and telling her whether it is safe or if it should be parked until it can be repaired" line. It worked like a charm the last time they suggested they might not get to it.

Exchanged my drawer pull this morning so the cabinet will be finished tonight. Yay! Now I'll poke through the antique trunk and decide what all I want to get ready to use. My goal is to have a lovely table for Thanksgiving, using all of this stuff. Cloth napkins, nice silver - I suppose I ought to start looking around for nice plates. I like estate sales for that kind of thing.

Finally, I had another feedback score on eBay the pushed out all four categories that are rated on the "detailed" feedback chart if you look at a seller's record. There were only two for the longest time, but a sale last week posted to all. She got a great price on the item because I made a mistake, leaving a remark about free shipping in the auction text, but intended to lower the price and take out free shipping, making the shipping extra. I honored the wording and took a big hit on it, but at least I didn't lose money. Note to self: don't put anything in the text about shipping, leave it in the listing details only.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 01:16 PM

Sked/energy glitch today so I replanned the whole day to start later and list a few more FC items in a few more FC groups.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 03:11 PM

Up and out early this morning....little man to school, Walmart, hair cut, highlights, groceries, picked up my little man early, home to do dishes, laundry, general pick up, empty the car, repack quilting gear and then I have a nice family dinner planned: Roasted chicken, stuffing, greenie beanies and Jeremiah is going to help me bake a cake for a special treat.

The house is cold. We are out of pellets and Pete will be building the first fire of the season when he gets home. I know how to build a fire and can start one in the wood stove but the first fire of the season requires some fiddling outside with the chimney box as a cold chimney means the fire is difficult to start. Instead, we'll do some baking until Daddy gets home and that will warm the kitchen nicely (which is where I will be working and Jeremiah will be nearby playing with his cars).

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: mg
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 08:39 PM

Oh it is so good to get rid of stuff..I live in a tiny cabin and have already gotten rid of most of my possessions but the landlords of cabin had old utensils, rugs, bedding, furniture I had to work around. They are going to sell but it probably own't sell for several months and today I got rid of almost everything of theirs...except for one totally ugly sofa/futon thing that would not fit down the stairs. I am going to advertise it as a comfortable mattress for a van or truck camping..it folds up nicely..I will have to cut it from the frame and then look at the frame and see ifthat can be disassembled. but I think the foam part itself can get through the attic cutout...I could retire soon and want to be ready to bundle up and go if I lose my job or have family emergencies etc..I am down to almost nothing and love it. Need a good dependable computer, probably laptop. I'll keep a few clothes for dressup and a few shoes..my library of two books...give away my huge costco bottles of Dove shampoo and conditioner which take my frizzy hair to a whole new level...and off I go.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 11:33 PM

Mary, you should have one of those tiny trailers that gets pulled behind a tiny car (like this).

That sounds so cozy at your house, Michelle! I came in this evening and first thing I did was wash and pierce a sweet potato and put it in the convection oven. The house smells wonderful now, and that's part of my dinner.

This week I've taken two bags of old VCR tapes to put in the recycle bin at work, and I have another bag ready to go now. Each bag has weighed about 10 pounds and probably had a couple dozen tapes each. I still have quite a few to go through, but I can consolidate all of them into one set of shelves.

The buffet is finished, though I need to touch up the paint in places, after a few dings while I worked on it and spots I missed. I put the ironing board in front of the TV this evening and watched Elementary while I finished the cloth napkins.

Another funeral tomorrow, and an estate sale for the friend whose dogs Susie adopted. She was under water on her mortgage so there is no selling the house for the estate, the probate lawyer advise that they empty it and hand the keys back to the bank.

Hell of a month, this October. That's the third funeral in two weeks.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 12:01 PM

Another bag of VCR tapes deposited in the recycle bin. This clears out two shelves in the front room that used to be stacked with them. There are still a few in there that will be moved to a tall shallow bookcase in the hall as soon as I thin a few more out of there. And then I'll work on culling them just from that one location. Slow and steady gets the job done.

There was an excellent discussion on a local radio talk show about the distraction of living without the resources you need to conduct your life comfortably. The podcasts for this program (Think) stay online for a couple of weeks - if you don't have time to listen to it now, download it. http://www.kera.org/podcasts/think/ is the page, then scroll down to the 10/22/2013 program "Living Without." You can listen to it now, or, right click over the "Living Now" link and "save target as" and give it the program name (it has KERA and a series of numbers as the mp3 file name.) I downloaded it and can share it from my dropbox if you miss it (more on dropbox another time, but there are various cloud storage places like that available for free.)

I'm ordering the book by Eldar Shafir, it strikes a chord with me that I want to explore. So like the Don Aslett books (such as Clutter's Last Stand) and the book about procrastination that I discussed as I read, this is another one that I'll share with the rest of you. The gist of this is that if you are chronically worrying about some things it makes other things much more difficult. Forgetfulness, reduced critical thinking, decision making issues, are all discussed in the podcast and at greater length in the book.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 01:59 PM

While air drying my hair I almost finished indexing Tom's freelance articles of 1995. Moving right along... (Hadn't had any time to do that for over two weeks.)

Also ironed a blouse to wear to the session tonight, but had to make a mid-stream mid-thought recalculation when I discovered the lightweight sweater I'd planned to wear with it really needs to be washed first. That's okay, because I FOUND that sweater (and the one I'm now wearing) AND I got most of the clothes on the chair onto hangers. Didn't have time to get them put away in the closet, but I can do that tomorrow morning.

Unpacked Tom's new nebulizer and thought at first that a bunch of necessary stuff was missing, but finally found it packed in the other zipper compartment on the carrying case. Now all we have to do is figure out how to use it since no one at the hospital thought to -- and he wasn't using one while he was IN the hospital. Maybe I can find time to watch the DVD tomorrow, too. Oh, and Tom's Lifeline has been approved and now we're just waiting for the call for the company to come over and put in the service.

Plenty of stuff still on today's list still undone, but at least I FEEL reasonably accomplished today. Yesterday I got the boxes to put the books for the Nottingham library sale into so I can pack them up tomorrow, take them out to the car, and deliver them to the library next week. Probably can't put them in the car until Monday, though -- I'll need the back of the car for Tom's wheelchair for Sunday's PMFF board meeting at the Portsmouth Library.

Just had lunch which helped to declutter the fridge...and supper tonight after I get home from the Press Room will declutter the last of the meatloaf, mushroom gravy and potatoes. And then I might be able to find things in the fridge again.

I've still got about an hour to get something else accomplished before leaving for the session. I'll be in "being Tom" mode again tonight. He doesn't want to attempt the trek from house to car to Press Room back to car and into the house until he's had a bit more strengthening sessions with his physical therapist. Wednesday he made it to and from the doctor but couldn't make the last step into the house -- and I had to get another lift assist from the EMTs down the road. (Tom's been racking up frequent flyer miles lately...)

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 06:18 PM

At least the "lift assist" is available and nearby. I called the fire department in 2011 when I was up at Susie's house and her husband was trying to get off of the floor but couldn't get past a kneeling position. They got him up, but called the ambulance (she had been trying to take him to the ER). Her story is a lot different, because he was weak and in pain from metastatic cancer, but I was able to tell them (since it is a small local department) that we didn't want sirens blaring up the hill, we needed to get him up off the floor and perhaps out to an ambulance, if he agreed to go.

Friday evening. Heading home via Aldi to pick up some broccoli for the dogs.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 07:35 PM

Ahh! Friday eve and I am in the city. No music at the cafe tonight but a concert at the FAirgrounds to raise funds for HAbitat. I LOVE Habitat but the last year's concert at the fairigrounds put me in to hypothermia. Anyway, no heat yet at the mill living space. MAybe tomorrow. I went down on Weds with a car full of stuff to deliver and to rescue the food I had left behind on Monday. The noise of the new construction and dust, etc, was so distressing on Monday, I just put stuff in the frig and left. I had hoped to do some pottery but it was too cold - both days. Had a great visit with friends on Weds after I collected the food.

So yesterday, feeling almost my good old self, I went down, again to try to pot - to no avail; I could not get the propane heater started. But I rescued some much needed winter clothes. Found some but not others. Will do for now.

The Kitchen has been in progress all week and yesterday was at the point where Bruno and I could consult about the rest of the cabinets. Then I went away for the writers' group and when I came back he had finished it - not at all in the manner to which we had agreed! Anyway, it is a beautiful K and I am so looking forward to finally unpack and organize K stuff!!!!! There will still be no running water for a while. I need to varathane the slate tiles for the back splash and oil the birch counters.

In two weeks, B will come back and do the K and LR floors - floating bamboo. (Or so he says.) I am holding firm on maintaining the black concrete floor in the sun room - as a heat sink and also because I intend to have lots of plants = lots of wet and mess and I do not want to deal with a wood floor. I also do not believe I should have to fight for what I want but he is so incredibly into "the way things should be done" HIS WAY!

I will need to take everything out of the one pantry cupboard we have been using - well it needs to go elsewhere anyway - so we can cut an inch off the bottom! There is an archway in front of it and with the insulation and plywood on the floor, the top doors now hit the frame of the arch. I have a beautiful curved cupboard, with curved glass in the one door - Don't break it!!! - where I can put the Limoges tea set we bought at an auction in September. Honest! I could not resist it and am really looking forward to putting it into the perfect cabinet. And having friends over for tea! I promised this to a wonderful couple who gave us a lovely window which will go in my studio.

Back in the city, the laundry has been getting done - warmer here! Dishes are washed, but pots still not getting made in the upstairs "studio." I took curtains down from one window and washed them but need a hand to get them back up. They are several shades lighter!

Oh, and we have a very young raccoon as of today. Someone at the SPCA phoned in desperation this afternoon, although i am not legal, it was me or death for this fellow. She had phoned all over Quebec and eastern Ontario trying to place him. He is too small to survive outdoors, even if he had not lived with humans since a baby. I have no idea how we are going to cope. He will have to be housed in the mill in a way that he will not be coyote supper. For now, he is in the bathroom, with food, water and stuffed animals.

My long term malady has abated a great deal. I feel almost my self but the cough lingers as the system still clears the particulate. Two nights of NO coughing but coughing a great deal of every day. Nice to sleep! But also good that particulate is clearing - lots of Pau d'Arco, sage tea, red clover tea and mugs of fresh apple juice with cinnamon, and vit C.   Who knows what helps! Oh, yeah - staying away from polluted air, wearing my new mask in toxic places. You think I might miss coughing when it finally stops. Hope it happens!

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 09:02 PM

I'm glad to read that you're feeling better, Dorothy, and that you are finally having some functional rooms in that mill of yours.

I've rounded up another bag of tapes and will put all of the rest of them around the front room into the one case this evening. And I'll tackle some piles of paper that I'm tired of looking at. Tomorrow I'll be doing some baking and stuff around the neighborhood, but I'll also set up that chandelier and finally photograph it then pack it for listing on eBay. It's about time!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 11:28 PM

Tonight I've been in my home office working through boxes of papers and shredding occasional sheets. I opened a file drawer and realized that much of what was in there that had been related to my busy job before is not only no longer germane, but no one else needs it. They're going to have to recreate that wheel on their own. Lots is going into the recycling bag and many hanging file folders now have blank labels ready for new projects. Also in the process I found some topics that really interested me but I haven't had time to research or write about. Now I might.

Dinner was a large helping of stir-fry broccoli. This is a modified fasting day, and now that I've eliminated the alcohol from my diet altogether and am trying to seriously lose the last 15 or so pounds, I'm trying to do more interesting things with vegetables so I can eat good-sized meals with relatively low calories.

Tomorrow morning I'll make a run to the recycle bins with some of the paper bagged this evening along with some stuff that has been in the back of the pickup for a while that I forget to drop off. I think I've reached a point where I'm ready to toss a lot more stuff, to see more floor space or counter tops or book shelves without extra layers on top or in front of books. Fall cleaning as I get ready to spend more days indoors with the arrival of winter, hoping to not trip over everything in the house. Trying to dispose of stuff properly, not just all into the trash. Recycle, reuse, sell.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 12:34 PM

Bread machine set up soon for a batch of dinner rolls, and then a quick trip to recycle and drop off VCR tapes at the Goodwill, and pick up a baby gift. I think perhaps a gift card wrapped in a lovely box. Must polish a couple of silver cake stands I'm taking up for the shower.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon In Hospital - Oct 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 03:52 PM

Arghhhhh!!!!

In between everything else, I've just attempted to put the nebulizer together. I'm just unclear enough about where to put the meds, how to make sure the tubing has no moisture in it after Tom's done with it, etc. that I'll HAVE to make time RIGHT NOW to watch the DVD.

I truly wish they'd explained a little more at the hospital where it was prescribed. All they did was hand me the prescriptions when Tom was released. Didn't spend as much time going over prescriptions (actually I don't think they really did except to say that the metoprolol was time release (thus different from what Tom had been taking) and there was one completely new prescription and a Rx for spironolactone which Tom's cardiologist had taken him off of last March. No other information at all (and damned little in the printed material). Checked with Tom's cardiologist about the spironolactone the other day and he said take it at least until Tom sees him in a week and a half from now. Tom's PCP went over the meds list when we saw him Wednesday, but I hadn't been able to pick up the nebulizer last Monday because they needed Tom's Medicare card rather than his other insurance information and I couldn't get back in to pick it up until Thursday.

And, of course, he didn't use anything like it IN the hospital...

So here I am trying to figure it out with with a thick manual with not the best of illustrations. When in doubt, find time to watch the DVD... And then, if I need more help, maybe the visiting nurse can answer any questions on Tuesday.

Going to try to get another load of laundry in before I watch the instructional DVD. Then try (it gets complicated) to change my bed (first, I have to move all the books, papers, phone, binders, etcet etcet that take up the other side of the bed -- actually changing the sheets is the easy part).

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 05:47 PM

Another big bag for thrift shop and a box of silk blouses,a beautiful leather briefcase and a beautiful pendleton blazer off to dress for success..I had those clothes and was not particularly successful so good luck to someone else.

With every item I get gone..and I thought I was down to almost nothing anyway, it feels better and better in my tiny cabin.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 07:28 PM

Today was probably the closest I'm going to come to a "pajama day" in the foreseeable future. No appointments today and no one was scheduled to come over. I didn't have to go out at all for any reason.

Did this mean I have the day off? Well, noooo...

Today I attempted to get caught up on the stuff around the house that I haven't been able to get done for about three weeks. I indexed ALL of Tom's freelance articles from 1995-1999 (I'd already done 1994) and I'm partway to getting the information into Word files.

I also got several loads of laundry done (including hand washing), dried some laundry, and ran the dishes through. (Not all at the same time.) I'd hoped to get my bed changed, but that didn't happen. I DID get the kitchen compost taken out, the rollator out of the car (and outside the cellar door, but I didn't get down cellar to bring it in) and Tom's old wheelchair put into the car to use tomorrow. Got the kitchen compost taken out, too, but didn't get a chance to REALLY clean out the fridge and swab down the shelves.

But then I made the mistake of trying to set up the nebulizer -- without any information from the hospital or prior use by Tom. Makes my brain hurt. I'll watch the DVD tutorial tomorrow, perhaps. With the manual in front of me. Or maybe the visiting nurse on Tuesday can help.

Went over the agenda with Tom in prep for tomorrow's PMFF board meeting and made notes. The meeting will probably be a long one -- Tom will be there in a wheelchair. But I think we've agreed to postpone the annual dinner until April. That will make life a lot simpler for me (and Tom) as I hope he'll be out of the wheelchair again by then so that getting into the Press Room will be easier.

Monday it starts in again -- Emergency Response people coming at 10:30 to set up Tom's emergency button, Tom's physical therapist at noon, and Tom's CFI caseworker around 3-ish. I'll have to check my calendar for Tuesday (but I'm pretty sure the visiting nurse will be here), and Wednesday Tom has an appointment at the wound clinic.

Supper was leftover smoked scallop chowder (which decluttered the fridge a bit more) and dessert (maybe after a bit more digestion...maybe tomorrow...) will be the last pieces of the rum cake.

I'm exhausted, but feel a bit more in control of life again, for what it's worth.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 12:42 AM

That doesn't sound at all like a pajama day to me - it sounds like a jeans, sweatshirt and grubby sneakers day.

I have paper off of the floor in my office for now, but there are now new smaller stacks on a couple of desk surfaces that need to be transcribed into a notebook then tossed, or filed. The sorting yesterday yielding some more eBay items. Now that I can see the floor I need to go through here with a vacuum and dust cloth tomorrow - I need to go through the whole house with them.

Dishes washed this evening, kitchen pretty clean. I spent the afternoon at Susie's where they did a baby shower and birthday party in one. Her son as 1 son from his first marriage and is expecting a second from his second marriage. Lots of food, a nice sized group, and most of them a bit skeptical about all of the new dogs, yet all in agreement that they are mellow and well-behaved.

Before heading to the party I made a round trip to the restaurant supply to get the vinyl gloves I use in the kitchen, then over to Sam's Club for a pack of 2-dozen washcloths (blue for a boy) for the shower. I know it isn't a cute little outfit that will be outgrown in 3 months, it is a stack of nice wash cloths that will be handy in the kitchen or wherever when she needs something to wipe up baby and then toss in the laundry. I went through a couple dozen a week when my kids were little and they are very handy and a much better option than paper towels. They're great as napkins at a meal and if you have a plastic table cloth you can put a moist washcloth at each place.

After Sam's I dropped off VCRs at the Goodwill and a bag of paper and cardboard at the village recycle bin. The tapes to Goodwill are the ones we discussed earlier that Betty suggested selling. So I'll let the Goodwill sell them. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 01:41 PM

Dusting and vacuuming today, though I made a detour in here to look at the online TV listings. Nothing to speak of so I'll play a movie or stream something while I work.

Laundry is underway, kitchen is clean. After all of the dusting and vacuuming I may go ahead and mop. The house won't know what hit it.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 03:52 PM

OUTIES:

The outdoor-stored yard sale items I FreeCycled have all been picked up, except for one smallish bag still sitting out there awaiting pickup.

The items no one claimed are in a box in the van awaiting the next trip into town to drop off at Goodwill. If the bag awaiting pickupo doesn't go by morning, it goes in that box too.

Gone are a number of items that had become clutter, as well as some with bad memories attached.

The rest of the yard sale items are fabric stuffs sitting in the camper. The sun each day bakes them dry. On the warmest day this week I'll sit in there and sort them and bag/box 'em up for the parish thrift shop and Goodwill.


INNIES:

At a fave Salvation Army that had relocated, I grabbed a pile of cushy but disposable long sleeved tops for winter wear as I continue to shrink. This means that, as I do laundry this week, an equal number of items will be added to the Go-to-Goodwill pile. I also found several pairs of tennies, now that I can bend over enough to tie a shoe. I got 3 distinct styles so I can see what I like; eventually I'll decide what kind of new tennies I want to buy, retail.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 08:21 PM

Susie and her grandson came down to watch some online training for Windows 8, and the introduction was fine for him but too much for her. I've reset her computer and we'll go through the training slowly. Some of the things people have done to her computer make it hard to use the way intended, so we'll start from scratch.

I seem to have a floater in my right eye. It's kind of twitching around as I move my eye. I'll call the eye doctor tomorrow, but I don't think there is anything to be done about them. Getting older is a bitch.

Back to cleaning, laundry, vacuuming.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon In Hospital - Oct 2013
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 09:46 PM

Wow! I don't know how you do so much or where you get your energy! I'm exhausted just think about all you've done.

Hope you get the nebulizer up and running in two more shakes of a lamb's tail.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 12:32 AM

I made real progress today in the living room. I feel a session of moving furniture all over the room coming on. . .

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon In Hospital - Oct 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 08:46 AM

Energy? Just barely enough to do what needs to be done.

Thought I was somewhat recovering (despite no real down time -- just little snatches here and there), but I've snapped at both the cats and at Tom this morning and I've only been downstairs for 30 minutes. Sigh.

Tom didn't here the impatience in my voice (or so he says) -- I was in the middle of two "business" emails when he whistled for help getting out of bed.

Tom's got coffee and things are under control here at the computer (PMFF board meeting yesterday required some followup emails). Gotta go get dressed and see if I can make this place look a little less of a disaster area before the emergency button people come at 10:30. Then Tom's physical therapist comes at noon, and his case manager for CFI at 3:00.

In between I've got a bunch of more or less little things that all involve schlepping up and down stairs multiple times. I guess that's MY physical therapy!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon In Hospital - Oct 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 09:01 AM

Oh...no...I still haven't figured out the nebulizer. Hope to find time to watch the DVD sometime today in between stuff. But I also have to pick up some meds for Tom at the pharmacy -- maybe THEY can help me...

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 09:37 AM

Today begins the sorting of post-yard sale clothes and linens.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 09:53 AM

Today I will unpack all my gear from the AWESOME quilting retreat and do some more sorting out of things in my office. I found someone with a new granddaughter and will pass on some of Jeremiah's things so she will have goodies at her house for when the granddaughter comes to visit. :)

I have dishes to do, laundry is already in the works and just some general picking up to do today.

Not feeling so hot...sore throat, earache, exhaustion ick....so I have hot tea brewing and some local honey all ready to go for my throat. Later today I have some medical stuff to tend to and will be staying at the hospital overnight, all will be well.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 11:34 AM

Sounds like it was a good weekend, but not so great to pick up a bug while you were there!

I left the house early this morning with Zeke and drove over to the Chevy dealer a few blocks from here. The truck started leaking oil recently. Maybe it's a loose oil filter but in case it is something more serious I want to know and know my options. I hope to get it back in the early afternoon. Zeke and I walked home then I took all of the dogs for a long walk around the neighborhood.

This morning I tried on one of my "normal" size rings and it fits well. This is a half-size larger than the rings that I also want to wear, and those don't quite slip on yet. I wondered if I'd ever get to where I could wear my regular rings again. The weight is again slowly sliding off, now that I've made a couple of changes in my diet and am doing a better job of keeping the limited fast day to just 500 calories.

Yard work at noon today, a good source of exercise.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 11:47 AM

Three bagfuls of fabrics cleared from the camper-- one fat one for Goodwill (items the parish thrift shop does not sell), and one bag of nicer things for the parish thrift shop. That leaves a box of games to pack for Goodwill and then we can clean and fold up the camper for winter storage.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 03:25 PM

At lunchtime I went out and did the weed whacker trimming on the street edge, the one that the code enforcement guys study for any stray blade leaning over the curb. My lawn needs mowing, I'll do that after 5pm out front and maybe get to the back in the next day or two. Will try to finish the yard before a big cold-weather event arrives on Wednesday evening.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 04:22 PM

Still haven't had time to watch the nebulizer DVD and figure out exactly (the diagrams in the manual are pretty unclear) how the ampule of med is put into the where on the nebulizer.

The last person of the day just left and, for the first time today, I have some breathing space. So I'm going upstairs to under-react before I have to make dinner. (And NOT watch the DVD; sorry, I really need some just plain down time!)

But the day was productive, I guess...

Tom now has an emergency button to wear (and we've worked out a signal for accidental pushing -- they're pretty sensitive -- so that if Tom is home alone and the button is accidently depressed if he blows the whistle when they start asking questions -- they can't hear his quiet voice -- they'll know it was an accident; if they hear nothing, it's an emergency) and got everything all plugged in right and all the paperwork done. She was still here and hour and a half later when Tom's physical therapist came.

After Tom's workout with the therapist, I had time enough to make lunch and go out to pick up a prescription and gas up the car before his case manager came out to see what CFI might actually do to help us. And that would be to have a service come out once a week and run a vacuum over the place, dust, and spiffify the kitchen and bathroom. You. Have. No. Idea. How much that would help me!!! I think then I could get a bit more accomplished with the de-cluttering.

But there WEREN'T any free spaces today in between people coming out -- didn't get to schlep some stuff to the cellar or get much else accomplished. (Well, I did get some of the books for the library sale into boxes to take to the library tomorrow...and I swept the room where the computer is and the kitchen.) And snuck in a couple phone calls to get a bill straightened out and verify an appointment.)

And now I have a date with a novel and reclining pose (and a cat) for a couple hours before I have to make supper.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 09:51 PM

Linn, won't there be a home health nurse to show you how to run the nebulizer?

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 12:43 AM

The truck is still in the shop, the oil is leaking from a seal - an expensive fix, but one it needs because I don't want to be mopping up oil in the garage, smelling hot oil when I stop the truck, and burning oil off the engine as I drive. But it's a big "ouch" to my pocketbook.

I had enough gas for the lawnmower to mow the front, but I don't have enough for the back yard. I might get started on it in the morning and stop when the mower runs out. When I get the truck back then I can fill the gas can. It's a little too soon to be draining the gas from the mower yet.

I made a great batch of kung pao chicken - my version of it (as served at Panda Express - not bad for a little fast food place with healthy food). It lets me use up several green bell peppers that are still growing fast in the garden.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 12:17 PM

Home!

There's no place like it.

I've been cleaning out some corners today...very dusty corners.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 04:01 PM

Saturday, I stayed out from underfoot while R finally completed the task of putting in a toilet in 1st floor that flushes! No more bucket in the second sink to flush the toilet! Basically, my whole day was spent thinking we were going to the country but it took longer - like so many things. I cannot start doing much of anything when I don't know how much time I have. We did get that curtain back up. It covers a window that is covered with chip board since the firemen broke it a few years ago when the house next door was on fire. One would have thought R would have gotten compensated but not.

Sunday: R &I went to the mill in separate vehicles. We hoped to get to the rehabber down there to see if he could take the new raccoon. R was way too late, too late even to get a meal except at Subway. It was cold! I plugged in small electric heaters in the sunroom and kitchen and set up little guy with food, water and a wash basin for a "pond" which he loved. Concrete floor great for a very wet raccoon! I just stayed with him. R started working on a heater for the LR. I finally went to bed with all my clothes on and a rice thingy heated in the microwave for my COLD feet. R finished hooking up heater about midnight and crawled into bed with some of clothes still on. Warm by morning!!

Monday we discovered the raccoon had escaped into the larger part of the building - with doors opening and closing - so no trip to rehabber. We put food and his "pond" out there and hope he will be OK. He is very small and in no way able to fight for his life.

I started putting things into the new cabinets!!!! One area still needs more work so those are still empty. So wonderful to have cabinets. I oiled the birch counters with canola oil and they look great. I have cleared most of the temp "K" and put those units out back. Still have the dish washing table in the LR until we get water in the K.

R put heat into the studio so I could have done some work in the late afternoon, but tired. Very happy to know that I now have heat. I told my potting friend and she is also excited. She offered to paint the ceiling after we clean off the mold.

Found an article on my computer (forgot I had it). A Quaker woman in PA writes about cleaning mold out of her home with tea tree oil - 1/4 teaspoon to cup water. She washed all washable surfaces then sprayed the room and everything in it, and let the fumes settle. Respirator and goggles were necessary; this is strong stuff. But she has no more mold. I will try that in the studio but not spraying as I have no idea how it will affect clay, pots, etc.

Still coughing, but productively and very little at night.

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 05:30 PM

Oy, our downstairs terlet died last week and last night the landlord took it out. Today he is expected (shortly) to put in a new one. Good thing we had a portapotti last night from our camper, because after a week of bucket flushing... and going upstairs for solid waste handling got OLD, 'nuff said!!!

The Goodwill items got delivered today, including the games that had been waiting to get boxed. From the camper I also removed the Smithsonian magazines no one bought (surprise!). They will appear on FreeCycle for a few days and then go off to local doc's offices. But they ARE in the car.

On a Leptin Reset program I have lost 12 pounds relatively un-craving-ly.

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 07:14 PM

Got a few more things to the car to take to Goodwill tomorrow on the way home from the wound clinic. Took 4 boxes of books to the Nottingham library for the library sale on Nov. 9th. Hope to take another box or so by the beginning of the week.

Have a Madras curry simmering right now, and a pot of green lentils being simmered in chicken stock. I cheated -- it's a store-bought Madras sauce, but it definitely gets your attention. (Supposedly "medium" -- I'd hate to try "hot"!) Good meal for this weather. Had the first really cold night (26°F) last night. (Sigh...and me still with yard cleanup and some planting to do.)

Finally had a chance this afternoon to watch a movie -- nobody else coming over, errands run, phone calls made. Made a bowl of popcorn and watched "The Lion In Winter"...and Tom only whistled me downstairs once. (Actually, he thought the film was over as I'd gotten up to go to the bathroom.) Sabine started stealing popcorn out of the bowl before I had the DVD in. And Rufus only got in her face once while she was sitting on my lap. Sigh. Kids! (Rufus is actually the little brat and Sabine is a mature lady cat, but I swear sometimes they both act like bratty 6-year-olds!)

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 11:56 PM

Another bag of VCR tapes to the library recycle bin, then three pulled back out when I saw they were commercial with printed covers and they will go to the Goodwill.

Lots of personal stuff (appointments) tomorrow and lunch, I hope, with Moonglow.

I picked up the truck this afternoon, it drives fine, but on the way to work hit a road hazard that enough others had hit that it was flat. A piece of sheet metal. I'd have seen it if the jerk driving the wide load truck (a tender) hadn't decided to pass me and shoot into the lane in front of me, removing the distance between me and the next car (I'd have seen it otherwise). My nominee for jerk of the week driver.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 10:04 AM

Appointments morning and afternoon. It rained overnight and is a heavy overcast now. Not too hot, not too cold, just a nice fall day for puttering around town and visiting with my daughter. If the whole day isn't taken up with waiting rooms, I might get some puttering done around the house.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 01:09 PM

Have to take Tom to the wound clinic in about 45 minutes and I'm wiped. Raised my heart rate and stress level, screamed at the cats a few times (Rufus in particular was pushing the how can I annoy Mom envelope...repeatedly.

I DID get the table moved (got Tom to sit in the recliner and out of my hair; didn't have to use duct tape) and a few things done: dug the ladder out and rehung the harpy sculpture, set up the nebulizer (and Tom used it!) -- what was so tedious was finding a power strip that would work in the only outlet available. And I had to test out various power strips for one that would work. I think the fault, though, lies with the outlet which should probably, like several others, be replaced.

But that's another project and I've been soliciting recommendations for a local electrician who can replace several outlets and switches without putting us into bankruptcy. My handyman was going to do the work, but has decided to no longer do electrical projects because of the liability. He's not licensed. These are all projects Tom used to do and are easy enough I could, but I don't feel comfortable doing even simple electrical work...even with a book with diagrams.

Handy man is coming tomorrow to hang a swing arm lamp (I'll remove the old one and install it upstairs -- that I can do), install a couple battery-operated smoke alarms, and tighten up some cannister lamp fixtures that have never been right, so they can actually be used again. And measure for materials for a simple handrail to match the single handrail on the deck steps.

Now if I can find someone to replace the switch so we have an outside porch light and working lights in the front hall.

Have to take Tom to the wound clinic and take a few bags of things to Goodwill on the way home.

With luck, when we get home I can schlep a few boxes and things down cellar out of the way for the time being.

It all sound so simple on my list. And it all takes so damned much time in actuality.

Not going to be as cold tonight as the past two nights, but really need to clean off the woodstove and remove the stuff around it. Just in case.

Somehow I don't think I'm going to get the nap I'd really like. Or even some quiet reading time until after supper.

Other good things in the works...with the admonition that I have enough on my plate so don't worry about it and let friends deal with it.

Where, exactly, did October go? WHO is responsible?!?

And I think, if I don't get a nap, I should at least get chocolate.

Linn

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 06:12 PM

The last yard sale debris (signage, supplies) left the camper today and we folded it up after I singlehandedly changed the bedding in the king bunk, so it will all be ready on the first night in it next summer. I put on all the layers, on the inside edge, and then pulled them all through from the outer edges.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: GUEST
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 07:59 PM

Misery loves company! Toilet problems, electric that doesn't work... Oh my!

I had to rearrange numerous cords yesterday when the super special 8 outlet thingy quit. Except the heating pad in the foot of the bed?? Had to move the air cleaner to a different side of the room to get an outlet. Now all is working for the moment. Most of the outlets are non-functional so extension cords abound - carefully.

Spent yesterday hanging in the city as R decided to work at home on a pending court case - suing the province for the lack of protection in the Court of Appeal when he was attacked 3 years ago and ended up in hospital with the subdural hematoma. Not knowing any time line, I just read, did some laundry, did the electric things, and spent time on line, some of which is pottery related- learning and looking at others work. And fed us meals.

Today, more of the same. Changed the bed, washed bedding, triaged things to go to the country but not 'til Friday as I am with my friend Thurs and Fri afternoons. R has had my car so no trip to library or elsewhere. I need to come to some kind of terms with my time problem; I could have made a whole bunch of small pots on the portable wheel on these two days. I "could not start" because I did not know how much time before I would need to stop and do something else. Need to deal with this somehow. To ask R "how long" would be an exercise in futility. My problem, my solution....

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 12:27 AM

Guest was Dorothy, reporting in.

Today was doctors visits, my annual physical and a hastily made appointment with an ophthalmologist to have my eye checked. A large floater appeared on Sunday and it was so startling that I was afraid it might be a precursor to something like a detached retina. It can be a symptom, and it has been a kind of scary couple of days as I realized I needed to get it checked in case that was happening, it might mean a rather unpleasant procedure. I dodged that bullet and probably got the information that many baby boomers are hearing - your eyes are getting older. Whew!

Last year at my annual physical I weighed 22 pounds more than today. I gained more weight after that, before I started losing it, so I've actually lost 30. We had a discussion about eating patterns and I'll continue my alternate day modified fasting, and make a point of eating my largest meal in the morning and keeping dinner very light. It might help me reach my goal weight a little sooner.

I didn't get much done on my afternoon home after the eye doctor. It takes many hours for the dilating drops to wear off. I took a nap. It was a great nap!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 07:39 AM

I got up a little early this morning to make treats for Jeremiah's Halloween party....I am excited for him to take them in! I made little spiders out of Ritz crackers, peanut butter, honey, pretzel sticks and green gel for eyes...I think they came out kinda cute! YAY. Photos going up on FB shortly!

Happy Halloween!!! What do you do special for this day?

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 09:38 AM

I don't do much usually, some years we have lots of kids, other years we don't see any. I bring in the dogs so they aren't targeted and so they aren't alarmed by the foot traffic after dark.

I see this morning in my email that another rat leaving the sinking ship co-worker has a new job. The department administration used a passive/aggressive method to thin the staff with the re-organization. They put a few in really cushy new jobs and parked the rest of us in illogical places until we finally leave. At which time they can use the position to underpay some new person to do a different job. That's the scary Halloween observation I have for today.

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 10:00 AM

Not a H'ween tradition but part of my new Leptin program: early mornings spent roasting several days'-worth of veggies before my pre-lunch PT or workout, because that way, the recovery calories required within an hour of a workout fit also into the Leptin-required meal pattern and food choices. Kitchen sends me off with baked squash and welcomes me back in a bit to eat some, and then other stuff cooked goes into a dinner which makes me sleep so well.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 05:05 PM

A couple of remarks have been lost in space this afternoon, I'll copy this one before I hit submit.

They have found someone to take over the photo part of my job and this was my last shoot today. How do I find out? Not from anyone in charge, but I knew this was coming by how they moved that co-worker to the new marketing department. I told her to get some good equipment to work with out of it.

I'm going to start clearing out extra stuff in my office. I want to be able to pick up and move easily if something new comes my way. I don't want to be slowed by my clutter!

SRS

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: LilyFestre
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 06:15 PM

I had a great time at Jeremiah's party and more importantly he did too!!!

This is the first year that he is really aware enough to enjoy dressing up and going trick or treating. Since his entire class went trick or treating today we are going to pass on doing it tonight. You should see the candy this child has....it is going to last to at least Christmas!!! They also had a class party....it was so fun to watch the kids intereact and do some exploring. They made a big batch of goblin guts....LOL...too silly...I have photos (of course) and will share some later.

Then I was off for some major grocery shopping...got some great deals today, picked up Jeremiah, emptied the car (4 trips), put it all away and am now sitting with my feet up....taking a little break before time to make dinner.

I also had a medical appointment this morning..didn't go as well as I'd hoped but all will be well....I need to make peace with a few things and life will go on! :)

Happy Halloween!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: wysiwyg
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 08:42 PM

A FreeCycler picked up the magazines tonight and is a local teacher who can use more til the subscription runs out, so if any more come I can drop them at her school, YAY!

I delivered the parish thrift shop bags today and it was also a great chance to pass along a message from a good friend of mine who is looking for specific items to use at her assisted living facility, YAY!

I had a great workout at the pool and a nice visit with the manager, and the aquatic equipt I am adapting from my old stuff for my new PT Rx is working well, YAY!

Dinner included curried coconut milk/chicken broth butternut squash soup, YA and YUM. Harid grilled a steak to go with, YUMM-OH!

~S~

~S~

Subject: RE: Autumn Leaves Decluttered Spaces 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Nov 13 - 12:04 PM

Here is the next declutter and exercise thread. And I even got fitness mentioned in the name this time!

SRS