Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Rumncoke
Date: 19 Nov 14 - 07:29 AM

To get Windows Media Centre would be over 100 UK pounds, so we'll get something cheaper.

We have already changed to the Windows 7 looking options, and removed opening screens associated with Windows 8.1 - it doesn't like it, but that is the way it is going to be.

The new metro screen is not going to be making a reappearance any time soon.

It is not behaving at all well - opening is slow, maybe they expect things to be left open all the time, it looks that way. I am just waiting for things to be moved off the old computer and then I will set it up in one of the bedrooms and probably keep it until it goes wrong, or Microsoft stop messing about and start making a serious OS again.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Nov 14 - 01:54 AM

Dell has an auction site where they sell old laptops and desktops. eBay has lots of older computers - but there, buyer beware. Since XP isn't supported any more, you'll have a difficult time finding anything that isn't quite used, possibly decrepit. Why don't you research compatibility settings on your current computer, see if you can run an XP emulator to run the old software.

I can't keep Zeke out of the ant stuff. He has knocked off two of the little bait traps and one tab covered with the liquid. I think it must have tasted bad because he left it alone after the first chew. I have to remember to keep the door closed all of the time so he doesn't get into that bathroom when he's in the house part of the time. He got into the tub to get the last one, it was on the far corner. I guess I'm lucky he didn't eat a bar of soap while he was in there. I've thrown out any that were still in reach.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Nov 14 - 01:44 AM

You can buy Windows Media Center from Microsoft for $10. I did that when I got my Win8 laptop. It's a download once you pay for it - just do a search at Microsoft.

I just looked at my Win8. If you don't have a "desktop" tile on Win8 already, you can create a tile that takes you to a desktop that looks like Win7. That is where any non-Win8 programs will run by default anyway. I'll have to think about it, or research to tell you how, I don't remember what I did if I created that tile, but it may already be there. Then you click on that to get to the old desktop or click on the corner windows icon in the desktop to get back to the new metro screen.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 11:34 PM

City:
Safely home by 9 pm. no snow until on the Island of Montreal and that only light, sparse and dry.

A quiet day at the art gallery. Friends came in for a visit. A woman I had never met came in and we talked long enough to be well acquainted. Another area resident, came in to actually see the art and in chatting asked, "Did you know Agnes...?" "What happened to her?" "She died on Weds." WOW, probably a blessing for her as she had cirrhosis of the liver. And am I ever glad I went to visit her in July! Long chat with this woman and asked her to let me know if there is some sort of memorial. That was the day. I found the wifi password and spent time deleting emails, etc. Changed into sweat pants for traveling and headed toward Montreal. I had filled tank in the am so did not have to stop except to use the facilities at a service centre.

Came home to a cold house (56F) and a still sick R. More work completed on house but still on-going and BR still full of tools and no closet. Felt like getting back in the car ...

Looking around the gallery today, I decided it is time to start spending more time on my pots to make each one more interesting, more creative. I have enough ordinary pots. I can take time to do some interesting embellishment.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 08:43 PM

any recommendations for where to buy an old laptop with xp on it and wireless ready to go and cd drive..i need it to use my good genealogy program..newer computer is not compatible....just got a new laptop so don't want to put much money into it.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Rumncoke
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 05:32 PM

We used to have several different ants nests in the garden - and they did come into the kitchen - but I told them off for it and they stopped coming in - I really don't know why as I'm sure they have no understanding of English.

Over time, however, I changed the ecology of the garden growing fruit bushes and trees rather than having grass, and they have gone. There used to be a big nest of black ants under the paving stones, but it is constant shade from the apple trees, and just that bit colder, I suppose.

Hopefully the great great granddaughters are busily doing the ant thing elsewhere. They used to swarm in their many thousands when they hatched a generation with wings, so they were flourishing at one time.

Ah now there is no toggling between for this PC - no symbol for it - lower left is the start menu - the new PC is getting more 7-ish all the time. There are 8.1 parts I'm sure, but we don't need to go there at all. The big lack is Windows Media Centre, but we can buy something to do the job. I record early evening programs to watch the next day, or when I have time.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 02:03 PM

I think you'll find if you simply left click the symbol in the lower left hand corner it will toggle between the old Win 7 look screen and the new Win8 screen. You can work off of that instead of the fluid "metro tile" screen from Win8. Any time you click on one of the tiles that doesn't have a Win8 setup, it will open in the older desktop.

Rumncoke, I'd be happy to mail some of this ant stuff to you. It isn't very expensive and isn't very large. Send me a PM and we can work out the details. This is the product.

My next door neighbor caught me as I was leaving the house this morning to tell me that thieves stopped by his front yard a couple of nights ago and picked up a bunch of ornamental paving stones that they took 2 blocks up the street and proceeded to use after they jacked up a truck to steal all four tires. Left the truck perched atop his pavers. I'm directly across the street from him and I've been parking in the garage at night since it's cold, but this tells me it is all the more imperative to park inside. Zeke with his race out the door trick is why I don't bother all of the time. It's time to finish the dog enclosure, put up the last bit to keep the dogs from exiting around the gate into the rest of the garage. Then I can come and go without worrying about him. I'll put this on the top of my to-do list over the long break next week.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 01:54 PM

awesome..catch and release for kiddy toys, clothes etc.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 12:46 PM

Oh Hallelujah! I cleared out 5 30 gallon sized trash bags of clothes that Jeremiah has outgrown, baby toys, kitchen appliances no longer used, dishes and cups no longer used and a box of heavy gear too. And a tall oak chair that swivels...nothing wrong with it, just no longer have a need Best of all? I have a promise from my husband to take it to the Salvation Army tomorrow! HOORAY! I have 3 large totes of toys to sort through and add to the pile but I ran out of garbage bags....so....I'm off to get some of those! It sure feels good to have that OUT OF HERE! (It's on the front porch until tomorrow morning and then buh bye!!!)

Michelle

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Rumncoke
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 05:07 AM

SRS - the ants should die off with the borax - we can't get it here any more, borax, but our ants are not so destructive. This time of year when things are going into Autumn and Winter the numbers should be declining and few if any new queens being produced.

The new computer is not touch screen, and we really don't want to learn to accommodate Windows 8.1 - we want it to work for us. Getting rid of screens which have no purpose has helped, but I find it so slow starting off and it is so annoying when I can't close something because the X in the corner doesn't appear under the cursor and there is no way to get out. Why hide it in the first place? Well - it is for teeny tiny screens I suppose, so every little bit of extra viewing space is precious - but my monitor is really quite large.

It isn't the look of Windows 7 we want but the feel - I don't have the time to wait for it to get ready or to go through the animation. I've done the teenage eyeroll and oh per'leeze at this machine rather a lot - I mean - whoever designed this should grow up a bit and try again because their first attempt needs a lot of pruning and tuning.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Nov 14 - 12:57 AM

I baked a sweet potato and an acorn squash this evening to use for lunches this week. I have a crock pot of raisin oatmeal going for tomorrow morning. This evening seems to be all about warm food for tomorrow, another cold day.

The ant situation in the house is taking a radical shift. I shopped for organic treatments and am trying a couple of bait methods - small traps with abamectin are of some interest, but the little cardboard things you put liquid bait (containing borax) on - they go for that big time. I'm hoping they carry this back to the vast mound that is evidently under my house and kill off the rest. There are a couple of places where ants are gobbling up the liquid this evening. This stuff is called Terro.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 11:41 PM

Just re-checked weather for tomorrow and it does not look like much snow but some wind and flurries. Not too bad. She says hopefully.

And so to bed.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 11:36 PM

Ontario:
Out this am to volunteers' meeting. Sparse attendance = quick meeting. The group took my suggestion of a circle instead of rows so no chit chat and everyone could see everyone and hear better. Then went out to visit the van; asked Pete about winter storage. After having told me a couple months ago that I should put it in a heated space, he now said it would be fine outside and agreed to keep it in his yard until spring, when, I hope, he will have time to do the repair. Now he is up to "there" with people needing their snow tires. It has been snowing lightly for a couple days and a larger amount is due tomorrow. I am counting on the road south being clear when I need to leave at 4 pm.

Then visited a friend's Christmas shop. Very nice! Stopped in at A Place for the Arts and viewed the latest art work - a wonderful variety of photos and paintings by local artists. Then had an appointment at the bank to register my shares so I can sell them and have a down payment if I ever find a property cheap enough. The went seeking a place to have hair cut. Enjoyable time chatting with Gary as he cut off most of my hair! It has not been this short since infancy! As I was leaving, I noted out loud, "At the art gallery, we were talking about haircuts and I remember someone saying, 'he gets talking and keeps cutting...'" Gary laughed and said, "Pat Cooke!" Nice man. If I ever go back, maybe he will not cut off quite so much.

Then stopped at each grocery store. Bought nothing at first and went back in for more at the second, having gotten in the car and realized I needed lunch stuff for tomorrow. Got back to the house in time for a bite with hosts who then went out. I made a couple sandwiches for tomorrow and started organizing for departure. When Lesley came back, we chatted for awhile. I told her I am having separation anxiety already. I cannot see myself staying away until spring. She assured me I am welcome to stay here if I want to come back. Even being away the last month has been very difficult. I will watch the weather and try to come back once a month. This is no only a healthier environment physically, it is where I feel comfortable, and have friends.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 09:11 PM

I found an excellent tutorial about Win 8.1 and have enjoyed learning to use the new computer. Does yours have a touch screen? That is what Win8 is designed to work with. If you can get to www.Lynda.com take a look at the choices of courses they offer. I think an individual membership is $25 a month and your courses are unlimited. I'd suggest paying for a month of that and sitting down with the Win8 tutorials and you'll learn a great deal - and perhaps decide you don't need the screen to look like Win 7. That's the conclusion I came to.

Today I took a big step and gave the dogs their annual immunizations myself. I have known for a while that the feed store sells kits with individual doses. It comes out $12 each and you use the hypodermic to extract the liquid from one bottle, inject into the other with a small cake of the material, shake, then fill and after cleaning a spot on the neck or behind the leg, inject under the skin (not into the body or a vein). The hard thing is to make myself press it into the skin with enough pressure to do it quickly, but not with such force that it goes too far. But I did it and not a one of them complained. They also each got a treat after, which never happens at the vet's office.

They'll get their rabies shots next weekend at the monthly shot clinic at the same feed store, $11 each. I had other dog activities as well - Zeke lost his collar last night, and when I found it in the yard the name tag was off. So part of the trip was a new collar that buckles and will stay on better, and a new tag.

Darned cold here again tonight. The car is in the garage and the dogs will be in the house. Last week it was in the 80s.

I'm working on stuff for work this evening, but during the week I'll be listing more eBay items and getting started on some crafts. I've picked up enough materials for projects that it is finally time to start doing some of them.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Rumncoke
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 06:22 PM

I carried my big knitting machine out of the house into the car, along with all the bits and pieces and the stand, then got it up the stairs to the workshop and did a lesson and then got it back again, and half put back together - it is a lot of effort, but I earned some money for it, so probably worth it.

It will probably be all back together again tomorrow.

We have a new PC with Windows 8.1 on it. We've been working to make it feel more like Windows 7 but it is like pulling teeth - get rid of this screen and that screen, but it still takes longer as it thinks about things whirling it's little wheel - just who thought that it would be a good idea to make it the only thing available even to devices which do not have a touch screen?

It keeps missing letters when I type, and I am not all that fast a typist, but the machine came with a flat laptop sort of keyboard and I use a curvy one - it can keep up when I use one hand and the flat keyboard but not now the racing one is plugged in.

There is no media centre so I can't record the Stargate series nor Timeteam to watch during the day. Bit of a pigs ear really.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 02:13 PM

Yeehah!!! The dryer is fine! I reset the breaker AGAIN and it worked.

But yesterday something slipped off my nightstand. I didn't chase it. Today I realized it was my watch and, try as I might, I can't find it.

Deep breath... It's all going to work out.

"Wintry mix" out there today. Still mostly drizzle, but the temp is hovering close to freezing. Glad I'm in. Subaru for my trek to and from Portsmouth.

Linn

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 11:08 AM

One day at a time Linn, and make the most of the time you spend at work letting your social batteries recharge.

I discovered this morning that Zeke had snagged his collar somewhere in the yard and lost his name tag. I must get new tags for all of the dogs, they're either missing or so worn the can't be read. I took a day off work with "urgent dog issues." Let them think the worst - once I get the new tags I'll do some work for work and only take off the hours I actually had to do the shopping. No telecommuting these days, but I still get better work done here than in the environment at the office.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Nov 14 - 10:13 AM

Took yesterday as a "Quiet" day...recovering from the sessions and sociability surrounding the first anniversary of Tom's death. I needed to be surrounded by friends and music -- as I had last year when he died. But yesterday I needed quiet.

Tried to call a couple people (late in the afternoon when I could finally deal with it), but several weren't home. Called my 94-year old great aunt to apologize for having not sent a card and a note. (I've not been doing well in that regard this past year, although I seem to manage to mail the sympathy cards of which there are way too many.)

Today I have to get things done...including a funeral this afternoon. I really am tired of friends dying. Someone said recently that we're all getting further and further out on progressively thinner ice, but it's still a shock when someone falls through. Nate was 46 -- way too young. I found out Friday (anniversary of Tom's death) and just. Couldn't. Call his mother. Tears and my loss are still so close to the surface and I feel the loss of others so intensely... I knew I couldn't speak without crying. So I wrote her a note and mailed it at the Portsmouth post office, so she probably got it Saturday.

Friday I also got the letter printed out, signed, notarized, and mailed back to the bank for the final settlement of my mother's estate. It'll be the first anniversary of her death in about a week.

My computer is still in the shop so I'm doing everything on an iPad, which means there's a lot I can't do. The bathroom electrical situation is still up in the air and now my clothes dryer has suddenly stopped working...which might be electrical and not the machine. Arghhhh!

Been having some sort of gastro-intestinal problem off and on for the past week. Yesterday (and today) I've had oatmeal for breakfast and mostly rice the rest of the day. And a bit of kimchee because it's fermented. Need to go out later an get some live culture yoghurt because I'm out and some bananas. Sticking to easy to digest foods for awhile and stuff to get my gut flora and fauna back in whack. (That's a technical medical term...)

Linn

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 16 Nov 14 - 09:36 PM

Ontario:
Kind of slept in yesterday, visited with hosts and their other guest for a while, stopped in Maynooth for a couple quick visits and then dashed off for an afternoon with my friend in Highland Grove, sitting in the library with her and chatting as she did her librarian thing, chatted with in-comers and rushed to the community room to stir the stuffing! She and others were working on a big turkey dinner fund raiser. got to meet 3 of her grandsons and see a d-i-l down from the far north for a visit. Like many afternoons similarly spent when I lived in the Grove, except then her children were only a bit older than the grands are now!

Then back up to Lake St. Peter to meet Dave, the other guest, and we went off to dinner at my fav eatery and then to an open mic out east of town. He was determined to play and did his 3 songs and later went on about how the other musicians did not know any of them. I had never heard them and found them a bore. It was a wonderful old time event with old time music, about a dozen musicians, intermittent square dancing, waltz, two-step. I loved it. And connected with two people I had not seen in 15 years.

Then he decided to take the back road back to Maynooth so I held on and bit my tongue, wondering why anyone would do this mainly dirt road in the pitch dark with flurries. Back at the Arlington there was another sort of open mike - a terrific pianist, a marvellous performance by a guy in drag with a great voice, poetry readings, mini-skits... I sat out in the hall as it was too loud, and read my current novel. Tired and wanting bed! So much for an early night - midnight is early for some?

This morning I was off to the farm market (in the municipal gym) and a day of meeting old friends and acquaintances and lots of conversation with those and ones I have connected with over the few months I have been "back". A high point was being recognized and conversed with by a young woman whom I had not seen since she was a teen. I felt the gift of friendship. Did not sell much but it was a good day. I feel so much a part of the community here; it is home.

Stu and Les packed up their stuff and then helped me finish up and load the car and we came back to the house where they prepared a simple meal, including rosemary bagels from Montreal. I have been on line since about 7 - going through emails, including one from sick R who got some care today - a friend brought him an Iranian "cure everything" soup and made him herb tea! I phoned when I got back and he is much better than last night - taking C and Pau d'Arco, sleeping and watching TV, inlcuding the French channels!

Soon to bed.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 16 Nov 14 - 08:56 PM

I have joined the land of the cell phones as of last week. I've had cell phones before, just phones....not the crazy phones that are now available and that I now have! I have been having fun learning about it, mostly fussing around with it instead of reading the manual, which I will eventually do.

However. Tonight I was playing around with available apps. I have one to tune my uke, one for my violin, a metronome, some quilting tutorials and calculators but then...oh but THEN I found the JUST DANCE app that you sync up with your laptop.

I had SO MUCH FUN dancing along with the videos...I can see that this is going to become a secret fun thing to do alone when no one is home to watch!!! I imagine this app was created for 12 year olds but I don't care....it was SO MUCH FUN!!!!!!!   

I love exercise when it's FUN! YAY!

And Thursday? I'm getting an active link (Fit Bit). I love tracking things and seeing graphs so maybe this will encourage me to move more than I am (which honestly isn't much lately...C'mon Synthroid...KICK IN ALREADY.....also, have started some B complex vitamins to perk up the energy.....it's going to happen...it IS going to happen!!!)

Michelle who is still giggling about the dancing!

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Nov 14 - 07:22 PM

Cold and drizzly out. I'd love a snow day tomorrow, but I doubt it will continue to drizzle as it freezes. Too many people want it to happen for it to actually happen. :-/

Susie and I didn't get much done today, but I did set up the closed caption on her television and we trimmed one toenail on one of the dogs. It's a very long, abnormally long one, and even though I trimmed way out, it started bleeding. Hard to get that to stop, but I think overnight it will finally clot and quit oozing. I told her this is something she needs to go to a professional for. It didn't seem to hurt her, the only good part of that misadventure.

Editing tonight now that we've finished our visit and dinner and the dishwasher is loaded.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 16 Nov 14 - 06:11 PM

Two wood deliveries today. Next week? Focus on the kitchen and getting ready for Thanksgiving. :) What are you all doing for Thanksgiving? I'd love to hear some of your traditions!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Nov 14 - 11:38 AM

I should try that - the ads will be in the paper today, I'll take a look and see what I can do. It probably depends on how long the offer runs.

I brought home a wooden "in box" this week and I'm going to clear off the trunk that acts like a credenza in my home office and make that the place where I put the pages I print to read or use later. They otherwise end up spread around and contribute to the office visual clutter.

The weather is shifting - we woke to a drizzle today - and I can feel it in my sinuses. Supposedly there is a threat of freezing precipitation - this would be an excellent time for that to start happening. I don't need to go out anywhere and could stand to have an extra day off. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: wysiwyg
Date: 15 Nov 14 - 12:52 PM

Take that receipt to the service desk and get your turkey!!!

~S~

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Nov 14 - 11:38 AM

Pea soup! Sounds perfect. I'll make myself some. This weekend I broke out the sweatshirts - and it's time to buy a couple of new ones, these are pretty decrepit after many years of use. I layer, of course, so they still work, but they aren't the most attractive for going out in public.

I shopped on the way home yesterday, bringing home a lot for both the foreseeable near-future activities (thanksgiving) and for every day use for sometime to come. I found some tenderloin steaks in the "managers special" bin that I cut into 4 oz sections and froze in seal-a-meal bags. Small amounts makes it an affordable treat and helps keep the cholesterol from rising when I occasionally partake. Mostly I'm eating healthier proteins: in particular, I found a recipe for croquettes recently and I'm going to try to master the salmon croquette this winter.

I should have thought ahead, though - this time of year stores usually give a free turkey if you buy $X amount, and I met that criteria last night, something I don't do often. I think I can manage it again one more time by picking up a couple of more cases of canning jars next time I shop. I'm going to be using up most of what I have this weekend to make green tomato relish. The major christening of the new stove - a big pot of water for processing the relish.

I also have to work on a book for work that I have pushed aside for way too long. Now I need to finish it, and on my time.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 14 Nov 14 - 10:32 PM

I walked around so much today that I wore out my child. No small fete there.

I'm beat myself.

Sweet dreams!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 14 Nov 14 - 10:06 PM

Ontario:

Left the house almost on time, after a last minute "Where is the cell phone?!!!!" In bathrobe pocket. Then off to drop books at library, stop at ATM, pick up 16 dozen bagels, and drive to Ontario. Arrived about 4pm, made appointment to see "financial advisor" on Monday about selling shares, stopped at garage to check on van but Pete not there, went to Craftsman Restaurant to deliver bagels, have a nice visit with friends/owners and a bowl of pea soup, then to Saidie's to deliver bagels and a wonderful two hour visit with her and husband and finally to Lake St. Peter and a short visit with host Stu and another house guest before retiring to an early night.

Soon to sleep!

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Nov 14 - 12:29 PM

So much to do this weekend - green tomato relish, defrosting a turkey, getting the shopping done. Oy. I need some extra days off, but don't know if I can take them in the current climate at the library.

My son's care package is nearing delivery and the eBay parcel (chandelier) arrived yesterday. Time to photograph, describe, and pack some more eBay stuff.

I may hire a local kid to come help for an hour or two in the garden, to work side-by-side rather than unsupervised. That would speed up the removal to the compost and let me do some of the turning over of soil in preparation for onions and potatoes and to put in some broccoli (I could have planted them earlier, but all of the space was covered with active crops).

Dog stuff this weekend - brush, possibly bathe all of them. I'll be making their stall winter-worthy. When I telecommuted I could let them in in really cold weather because I was in the house with them, but now that I have to be away every day I need to be sure their space in the garage is comfortable on the coldest days.

If I'd acted like I threatened a few weeks ago I'd have put up some holiday lights in the warm weather. Now I have to put them up whenever I get a chance and be bundled up to do it. At least I have a couple of trees just the right size to string with the big lights that are a lovely spot of color. I don't do the entire house, just an accent or two in the yard.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 13 Nov 14 - 07:59 PM

City:
A dog cam might be interesting. But might not! They sleep a lot!

After BF and getting R gone, I took hot bath - an hour, went to bed to recover - an hour, took minerals and chicken broth with rice. Felt much better and started getting little things done. Yesterday's laundry out of dryer and a load into washer and then dryer and out. So nice to have the K table clear for sorting and folding! Prepared supplements in container for next ten days and extras to take with me. The extra MSM and Glucosamine I have been taking since Sunday have helped my shoulders a great deal. It is amazing to be able to fold a sheet or reach a top shelf without difficulty.   

Made big pot of stewed apples last night and cranberries today. Still have enough raw cranberries for 2-3 more batches but they keep really well, both raw and cooked. Sorted out bagel orders and phoned to place order and then again to add to it. 16 dozen bagels going to Ontario! My car will smell so good! Hope to pick them up about 10:30 am and get on the road so I should be at destination one by about 4. I really want to avoid driving after dark where there are deer along the road - maybe on it or crossing it.

My 2nd son phoned about an hour ago and we talked 41 minutes. He was stuck in traffic, in rain, on way to a programming seminar. He ordered bagels from the Montreal "Factory" and froze them and has one "every day"! ( We lived in Montreal when the boys were pre-teen/teens. Bagels from the bagel factory (NOwhere else) were a big thing - and still are, apparently!) He also told me about his new bagel toaster which has a setting for bagel thaw and gives him wonderful crisp bagels. Also has a new double oven - a small part at top which takes place of toaster oven and a regular one below. I do learn from the guys!

I have not lost any weight and may have gained a bit. Not trying any weight losing until I get through the detox and will hold that until January. Now have clear directions and it will not be easy. My body seems to react more quickly and intensely than most. Maybe that comes with the environmental sensitivity - or enables it.

Clothes sorted for trip and No snow in sight!

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 13 Nov 14 - 03:38 PM

Down 2.6 this week.

I did some Christmas shopping today, almost all stocking stuffers for Jeremiah as I am about finished with his Christmas goodies (except maybe 3 or 4 more things...I still want to get him some Christmas jammies, a Christmas movie and an item of the Paw Patrol variety).

I have nothing for anyone else. Not even ideas.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Nov 14 - 12:19 PM

Dorothy, the dogs may pile into one spot - when they're in the garage stall I don't see how they arrange themselves, and there is no sneaking up on dogs to see what they're doing. As soon as I touch the door they pour out of the garage to see what is up. Maybe I should set up a "Dog Cam" out there. :)

Winter has arrived, in typical Texas fashion. Earlier in the week the high temperatures were up in the 80s. Now the highs are in the high 30s or low 40s. I need to tweak the programmable thermostat since my work schedule has changed as much as it has. I know I've harped on this - it is always such a shock when it goes from hot to cold with little pretense toward mild autumn in between.

Time to make a push on small items on eBay, and to stage the photos with a tree ornament (no included in the sale) and offer gift wrapping (for a modest cost, or perhaps as a free option.) I moved a big chunk of the paypal balance to the bank but left enough in there to cover some of my seasonal shipping costs (the post office takes paypal). These small sales go toward my postal needs.

Has anyone else been watching and gotten a terrific boost from the landing on the comet adventure this week? It's nice to see a pure science event take the limelight with a look at humanity at its best via technology and cooperation.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 12 Nov 14 - 11:38 PM

City:
Went to the country and back again. Started a load of laundry and got it into dryer before I left. Went to the mill, packed and loaded latest pots into car and a few other items, had a visit with Geri, stopped at the thrift shop and got a nice basic curtain rod for mill K, and a seat cushion. Home for a healthy supper and computer/TV eve. The news is finished and I can go to bed. R phoned about 9 and will be late again.

Linn's job sounds rather fun and interesting.
I am surprised the dogs, SRS, don't pile into one compartment. And frost! We have not had any yet but this weekend it is promised. And if I make it to Ontario, will definitely be frost; 5-10 degrees colder up there. Darn! Where is the windshield thingy?

Visiting with Geri at the local restaurant brought up an interesting conundrum. There was nothing I wanted or needed to eat so I ordered French fries $2. When they came I just looked at them; I really did not want them. But over the hour or so, I managed to eat them all. On the way home I considered asking the waitress to give me a bill but not bring me any food! Usually I get soup but today's was not to my liking. It is awkward to not order anything.

Beddie bye time!

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Nov 14 - 09:17 PM

That sounds like a great opportunity to do a lot of different things, Linn. Picking up could get old, but establishing personal docking stations around the office might help. I'm going to do this with Susie - head over to the Dollar Store and find some colorful bowls and leave one in each room. If she sets down her phone or her keys or her hearing aid she has to put it in one of those bowls. Then at least she can search the bowls, not the whole room, when she has to find the item again.

Really cold today all day. I got gas on the way home because I figure it'll be colder tomorrow morning that it was on the way home. I parked in the garage this evening so I don't have to thaw the car or chip frost off of the windows. I'll set up the oil heater for the dogs this evening. They sleep in the house at night, but they'll be outside when I'm at work and will appreciate the extra warmth, though the garage itself tends to be a solar collector during the day.

Someone is bopping my arm off of the chair to get my hand off the keyboard to claim my attention. It's time to feed the dogs, sez Zeke (who got to hop into the car when the garage door opened and ride into the garage).

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Nov 14 - 07:24 PM

The nice thing about going to work at 11 am is I can get a lot of things done before I leave or before I have to be there. I made sour milk cornbread, called the credit union to find I didn't have to do anything about the confusing letter they sent, put the new session cards in Tom's CDs, and went to the remains of the library sale to buy a bag of books for 2 bucks (for which I gave them $5). Oh, I also picked up my prescriptions. Sandy was 45 minutes late this morning but I a) learned a few more things about using my new cell phone and b) she called to tell me where the key is hidden.

The job is fun, but I DO have my work cut out for me -- but she seems to so appreciate what I'm doing. I'm not so much an administrative assistant as a personal assistant...or, mor accurately, a personal nag. She's ADD or ADHD or both. And I'm here to get her to focus on not wasting time and energy on bouncing around in 37 different directions at once and getting things done so as to eliminate the stress of NOT getting things done. F'rinstance... This morning after I let myself in, I was nosing around to see where everything was and found in the supply closet the slip of paper she'd been carrying around most of yesterday to remind her to call someone back. So I put it back on her desk and when she came in, I suggested she call this person back, since his call was on Monday. Then I reminded her again when she got sidetracked. Then t reminded her again. She said she'd call him tonight. I said, no, call him now... So she did and set up the appointment. She's got some virus mess on her computer, so I suggested a trustworthy tech and called him. He came this afternoon, took the computer and will bring it back tomorrow with, we hope, all of the virus trash cleaned off. Then maybe I can teach her not to click on ANYTHING she has the slightest doubts about, even if they say Microsoft.

Anyway, we found the (physical, not computer) file she was looking for, finished copying a borrowed document so she could return it and basically crossed a lot of things off the list I made for her this morning, starting with replacing the batteries in her hearing aids which yesterday she said she hadn't done. Since she did it before coming in, we crossed it off the list along with mailing an important thing we got done yesterday...so first thing this morning (well, noon) she was on a roll and already felt the day was going well. And with a list she can SEE what we're getting done...and it's easier to see what still needs to be done so it gets on the list tomorrow (and DONE, I hope!).

She says, "Yes, Mom," when I nag her (she's about 10 years older than me)...but with a big smile. And I got a big hug as well as thanks. She also likes that I make her laugh. She says I'm really making a difference.

I don't know how long the job will last, but so far it's both fun and gratifying. And I make some money to supplement my Social Security.

Linn

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Nov 14 - 03:22 PM

I mailed a care package to my son, a bunch of stuff from the house and a loaf of pumpkin bread tucked in the middle of it all. It was kind of expensive to send it priority mail, but I didn't feel like standing in the line at the post office to mail parcel post, and the bread wouldn't be as fresh if it gets there a week later. Next time, though, I'll send the bread in a flat rate box. The oven has a great thermostat, it is spot on the right temperature and it heats very quickly, both the oven and the burners. I need to be careful they don't get too hot too fast as I adapt to the new appliance.

I also love squash - just cutting an acorn squash in half, putting the cut sides down on an oiled piece of foil and baking it till it is soft - I scoop it out with a spoon, not adding anything to it.

Susie and I have discussed our work next weekend. She has an ongoing project, I have to look around and decide which of many. I might just shift gears and say lets work on a design with beads for 30 minutes - I've been meaning to get started on a couple of projects forever.

The freeze came over the area last night, but actually didn't freeze at my house. I missed a batch of Roma tomatoes and realized this morning that they weren't frost bit so I can pick them after work.

I took the box that the new stove came in and cut out one of the sides, then slid it back into the dog's stall in the garage, and put the two dog houses back in. There isn't room for a third dog house, but the whole thing is covered with a tarp and whoever isn't in a house can sleep next to the oil heater at the side (when it's cool enough to be on). Now there is an enclosed area outside the two dog houses so all three will actually be in an enclosure if they want. I'll have to take a photo so you can see what this looks like. At any rate, the cardboard didn't go to waste.

Finally, I spoke to some of the guys in the FabLab in our library (it's a "maker space" - they're popping up everywhere these days) that has a sewing machine that none of the guys in there know how to use. I'll give them a crash course in a week or two. They're fine with computers and 3D printers, but not so fine with the older technology.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 12 Nov 14 - 11:35 AM

I'm in the mood to cook today and so that's what I've been doing. I made 2 large pans of apple crisp and just finished cutting up 3 butternut squash, some for soup, some for eating and some for freezing. I have a box of about 12 more to tend to at some point. I'm thinking I'll cook some of them up and freeze them for Thanksgiving (or whenever as I LOVE winter squash).

A load of laundry has been done, toilet cleaned, floors in the kitchen swept, dishes done. And Jeremiah is home sick today. Go me.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Rumncoke
Date: 12 Nov 14 - 10:32 AM

Husband and I went to the tip this morning to get rid of things from work - less to end up in the house if it all goes pear shaped.
The Irish financial 'experts' have a lot to answer for - a few years ago there was money being poured into the economy and now it seems that there is trouble and woe everywhere, both for their people and for anyone who did business with them.
At least whilst I have access to the office I can work there and make a little money doing lessons and repairs - it is so handy to be able to turn around and say 'can you put an oscilloscope on this reader?' or 'can you see what voltage this is?' and in a little while be seeing what the problem is and maybe even fixing it.

At home I have a music centre in the kitchen, and a load of cds - I seem to be going through the ones by Status Quo at the moment - dancing around the kitchen must use up a few drops of fat each day. Husband thinks I am off my rocker, but dancing is good exercise and you keep the moves, bend the knees and twist the spine, put in a few kicks here and there - groovy!!

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 11 Nov 14 - 09:59 PM

City:
Was a beautiful day! Maybe summer's last gasp! The trip to Trois Rivieres was way longer than expected. Google, as usual, did not give adequate directions and I had a grand tour of TR before finding a small restaurant and begging for a bathroom FIRST!, then directions and a soup and almond croissant to go. Getting closer, I stopped at a veterinarian office and begged the french-only receptionist to phone for an address. Tammie had failed to provide a number! The "reptile man" spoke pretty good English and we had a nice visit. These abandoned turtles are not viable in this zone so he cares for LOTS! And abandoned snakes too. His biggest is 14 feet. I told him right off I did not want to see any snakes! He lives in an ordinary frame house close to downtown but has a large back yard. I wonder if the neighbours know?? He uses some of the animals to educate children about them and the importance of not trying to keep wild animals in their homes.

The trip back - well I missed the turn to the highway and had a tour of downtown. Then I was driving into the sun and it just got worse about 3 pm so I made a wrong turn - not being able to see the signs. It was a relief to not be heading into the sun even though I was no longer on the highway and it may have taken longer but I really did not care.

I was back by 3:45 and had a healthy lunch. Been on computer mostly since lunch. Partly arranging what bagels friends in Ontario want. I will pick them up on my way out of town on Friday morning. Yes. Montreal bagels are special. Google "Saturday night at the Bagel Factory".

R came in about 8 and had a good meal then rushed out again. Not having a good day. He got zapped by a bunch of electric - not his fault. And other things went wrong so he spent some time in the library, his go-to recovery site. It may not have helped that he got to bed at 4 am.

Well, that was a day. The scenery was not beautiful. I was tempted to go over the beautiful big bridge at TR and come back on the south shore but the reptile man told me there is no other bridge until Montreal area - 90 miles! There would be dreadful traffic in the M area. After wending my way through the city on the way back - through increasing traffic, a friend had posted on FB about an incident on the route I did not take. So, really glad I got off the highway. The turtles are safely homed. And so am I.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 14 - 07:58 PM

I picked over a half-bushel of green Super Fantastic tomatoes this afternoon, a couple of buckets of peppers and small Roma tomatoes, a dozen eggplants, and need to dig up one of the basil plants to pot for in the house this winter. Supposed to get below 32^o tonight.

Looks like I'll be making green tomato relish this weekend. And I'll be slicing and dicing lots of peppers.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 14 - 03:17 PM

Looking up "yoga pants" on Google image searches is rather appalling - these comfortable workout pants are also a hot sleaze trend, apparently. :-/ Good thing when I search for them on Target I find comfortable pants that just look like close-fitting fleece. I'll get something I can use for a class I'm going to enroll in. I need more exercise and just going to the gym to work out doesn't hold my interest. I'm about to join Andrea/Mouldy in the dance-studio-as-exercise category - belly dancing. :)

I can see the faux wood top of my computer desk today after shredding, filing, and recycling paper. But enough paper shuffling, I need to get out and pick stuff in the garden, the first freeze is imminent.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 14 - 11:10 AM

It is lovely to finally have that huge box out from underfoot. The dimensions of the UHaul moving box were 25" x 24" x 21" tall. Now it is on its way to California to a room being remodeled. I need to put a lot of things away - now that I have the new oven the roaster oven can go into the pantry for a couple of weeks (until Thanksgiving), I can put some of the extra canning jars away (given me by a friend) in the bottom of the pantry, and I need to sweep and mop the floor in the sun room and hall outside my office and pantry. Ages ago I talked about making the entry way I use a welcoming space - it has been a piled up storage space for a long time, but I think now I can tidy it and possibly even stage some of the areas in it.

I need to call some friends about Thanksgiving. I think they need to get out of a shell they're constructing, not sure what the origins, but it looks unhappy. We can help each other this year.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Nov 14 - 09:44 AM

Should be a GOOD day!

(Even though it's clouded up.)

Linn

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Nov 14 - 07:43 AM

Never had a problem with SAD (if that's what it is) until this year. That was one of Tom's problems. I think it's more the run up to the "last of the firsts"...the first anniversary of Tom's death. Of course, the weather, the change of seasons, and the autumn time shift (how I wish they'd just keep the time the same year round!!!) certainly don't help.

Sunday was a bit of a weepy day. I scored a copy of Gail Sheehy's "Passages In Caregiving" at the library sale and started reading it. Wish I had read it back when I first heard about it...but then being Tom's caregiver got progressively more complicated and, quite honestly, I forgot about it. But even reading the intro, I evaluated it's still important for me to read it now. It pissed me off that Tom isn't here to share it with and I yelled at him and told him so. (I'd thought I'd skipped the anger at being abandoned part of the grieving process, but I guess not. Just twinges of it, though.)

Anyway, I got a lot of writing done. It was both a retrospective and an introspective day.

So, today I first have to gather the trash for pickup, then scare up something for breakfast, then head off to my first day at the new job. And after work get my hair cut.

Looks like a lovely day out. Should be a day!

Linn

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 10 Nov 14 - 09:44 PM

City:
SRS:pic of new stove looks great!
Michelle: I never realized how important presentation is until I saw my pottery beautifully displayed at the art Gallery last month! I thought white was best for my variety of glaze colours but contrasting colours make a big difference. I am trying red table covering, with some white lacy place mats for this week's market. We'll see.

By 8 pm last night I was wishing I had gone back to the warm studio and thrown some pots for a couple hours. For reasons best known to someone else, I did not fall asleep early but was good 'til about 10:30 and well bored with both internet and reading. At least I felt better. Getting back on track with supplements does seem to be helping.

Of course this morning I could not get into the potting as it would have meant a couple hours of pre-heating and I had no idea when R would decide to leave for city. I changed the bedding and loaded winter clothes and other stuff into car so I was almost ready to leave when the word came about 1 pm. Turned on kiln after a call to Van to ensure she was not coming today; the fumes are toxic. Someday we will have an exhaust fan... Van will unload tomorrow - but be sure and clear the air!

I drove so R could do business on phone, dropped him off and came home and unloaded car, put food in frig, had a healthy lunch, cooked chicken, cauliflower and cheese sauce for supper. In between - internet, Big Bang and reading during meals. I was going to watch a program about a Canadian literary prize but, when I turned it on, the host was one of my most detested TV people. Why would they have a "comedian" host a literary event!

Tomorrow I am transporting two turtles from the SPCA to Trois Rivieres (about 90 minutes) for rescue. I have no idea why they need to go so far! I am just the chauffeur. I do enjoy going "in a different direction" once in a while. I really miss not having any raccoons but I had no energy for them this year anyway so it is good none came to me.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Nov 14 - 03:03 PM

I forgot to mention that I did a fair amount of yard work yesterday before we started the work on moving and picking up stoves. I weeded the new asparagus bed and mowed the front lawn. The longest set of soaker hoses has been pulled for the winter. I can feel it today a bit, the slightly sore muscles after the bending and mowing activity.

This probably wasn't the last mow of the season, but soon the garden will be completely finished and my evenings will be spent processing veggie stuff - tomorrow I need to finish a lot of picking, it's getting cold late in the week.

This morning I hunkered down in the back bathroom and finally took apart the dripping fitting on the little pipe that runs from the wall to the toilet tank. I cleaned out the threads, used some Teflon tape, and when I was ready to leave the house I looked in and it seemed to be working. Even avoiding a plumber call it was an expensive weekend, but an extremely productive one, all things considered! None of this is technically decluttering because nothing left, or if it did it was replaced. But it is a better operating house today.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Nov 14 - 10:40 AM

Michelle, that sounds like a great crash course on how to work this the next time - and as the commercial says, that is priceless! Think of it as a specialized garage sale, something I'm sure you know how to put behind you once it is finished. I have some craft ideas I'd like to put into action, I've gone so far as to price out materials, but I think I'd have to sell online. If I ever go so far as to start designing and sewing, I'll let you know. Chin up, and enjoy the planning for next time.

The UPS connection finally came through on eBay, and it saves about half of the standard cost of shipping. I'll drop that off in a few minutes. The sale of the chandelier covers the cost of the new stove. I'd hoped to bank it, but I can live with this outcome, and having a stove and oven that are safe means more than just having a transaction that might otherwise cause buyer's remorse. It is a relief to take a hazard out of the house.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: LilyFestre
Date: 10 Nov 14 - 10:11 AM

The craft fair went ok. I learned that I need far more inventory, that I need to have my own table and something different than everyone else. I have something in mind and will be working on that for another craft fair. My partner is a good friend but her idea of being on time and setting up and manning the table are a bit different than mine. We had agreed on having 2 tables and that she would have her stuff set up on Friday night because she lives near the venue while it's a 40 mile drive for me. Thursday night she said we'd only have one table because she wanted to set up a Christmas tree and drying rack where the one 8 foot table would have been. *deep breath* Ok. Then I showed up early on Saturday morning and the only setting up she had done was to bring the laundry rack over. In addition, she kept leaving the table. I understand that it's good for each of us to get up and move around but she would leave for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. She also had her 8 year old there....he just would walk over from home and he didn't do much but eat. I would have been fine with him there...I don't mind kids at all but he was putting his soda on the table, eating his hotdog, loaded with drippy catsup on the table.....the same table where I had hours and hours worth of work on. I had to ask him several times to take it off the table. So....next time I will have my own table...near my friend is fine but not with her. My sales were enough to cover the cost of the table, lunch, gas and a little bit left over. To be honest, I was not happy with that but I did not have lots of inventory or variety.....so, that's all on me. It is what it is.

Today I am headed into my sewing room to clean, organize and maybe even sew for my own enjoyment! When Jeremiah is home from school, I'll tend to the dishes, floors, etc. I won't sew when he is home with just me as I don't want to be in another room and leave him alone. He would be fine but I don't like that.

So...today I am over tired, crabby and pretty much hate everyone. Feeling useless.

It is what it is.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Nov 14 - 06:01 PM

The new stove is installed, it will do it's maiden baking and cooking soon. I'm going to take the box out to the garage and let the dogs have it as a den. See what happens with that.

Lots of paper and plastic and stuff left over after the stove was set up, I'll take the support stuff over to the recycle bins tomorrow. I'll clear off my kitchen counter again so I can prepare some of what is going to be cooked and baked tonight.

The last load of laundry needs to go in - I'm not drying on the line now, it has been too humid lately. I need to shred some paper I brought down from Susie's last night, and file some of my papers. It'll be a productive evening in with good smells coming from the kitchen.

SRS

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 09 Nov 14 - 05:20 PM

Just got back and it is 5:13 and DARK! But the kiln is loaded and ready to turn on! YAY! I did something.
Oh, the garden: I did go and, of course peppers are totally caput. I picked the last few hot peppers. They are so hot, I am afraid to use them! There were some bits of broccoli which I picked and threw in today's veggie pot. One cauliflower was beautiful a week or two ago. Now it is over the hill. That was the only one of a dozen that turned into a real cauliflower. Maybe I will have the energy to do better next year.

Subject: RE: Nov-Dec 2014 Declutter & Fitness
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 09 Nov 14 - 04:03 PM

Mill:
Linn gives me hope that it is only the change in the weather that is causing my lack of energy. But I did perk up enough Friday to realize I had gotten way off track in the self care area; trying to get back on. Today the sky was leaden, heavily pregnant with possibilities - none of which seem cheering.   The big window here helps.

Yesterday's excursion took about 4 hours and many miles: Books in and out of library, a creamer delivered to a nearby shop owner. The apple orchard was closed and a for sale sing on it. I was stunned. So I backtracked a bit and went on to the home of the woman who has waited 14 months for a tea pot! Part was paid in honey from her bees and lovely herbal - non-scented- soaps she makes. They will be nice little gifts. After a nice visit - her husband made all their doors windows and gorgeous kitchen cabinets out of butternut from the woods behind their home! It needed to be cut. Then off to the local butcher for several packets of various sausages without nitrites. A stop at the super bakery in St Antoine ---- an amazing choc pie and a choc mouse cake. That will keep us a while! A side trip to an organic orchard - closed! Gas at a cheap station - near the US border gas is the cheapest. And finally back to make simple supper using a packet of curry sauce and good chicken from the other butcher and brown rice - and some plain yogurt a it was a bit hot. I was in collapse on the sofa by 7 pm and in bed by 9.

While SRS is in the garden doing all sorts of neat things, I think of going to look at it and reject the brry idea! But Vanessa just came in for a quick chat after she made a bunch of pots. So, my nudge today: the studio is warm so I shall go do the bit of glazing and load the kiln.

Failing to take my supplements caused an increase in discomfort in shoulders so back on track there is helping.

I fetched some groceries today. I was not expecting to be here this long but R is finishing the repair to the roof!! It will be such a load off his mind. Lots of food in the city frig but there was not much here so I needed a few things.

To the studio while it is still light.