Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 May 15 - 12:26 PM

I'm forever farting bubbles, pretty bubbles in the air.

~S~

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 May 15 - 02:16 PM

This morning I was on an eBay roll, but I waited too long to approach the yard - hoping for dryer turf (my next door neighbor was smart and mowed despite the soggy conditions) it is now drizzling. If it doesn't do much I might mow this evening. I harvested a big armful of oregano that is now rinsed and resting on a large tray I keep for this use. I may pick some more (I have several large trays for drying herbs, and I have clear counter and table tops let them sit on). A couple of weeks ago I mailed a bunch of dried herbs to a friend so I'm rebuilding my supply.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 12 May 15 - 05:29 PM

City"
I do get chuckles here, as well as reminders! "An armload of oregano"! Today I went into the back yard and there are signs of life in the oregano and the sage and the one remaining lavender! The grass had gotten a bit high and I took the reel mower to most of it, pruned some dead wood and enjoyed the leaping of the four clematis on their new-last-year metal trellises! The Manitoba maple has become a monster and shades the sunny garden way too much. The rhubarb has mostly succumbed but hopes of the tree removal - with all R has on his plate ... SLIM to none!

The Solomon Seal, which he risked poison ivy to get for me by the sideo f the road somewhere in Ontario a few years ago, has become a two foot diameter clump. Very handsome and some will eventually go back to Ontario. The shade garden is again overrun with lily of the valley - indestructible! After it blooms, I shall pull a bunch. Day lilies, astilbe and hosta are in too much sun - the only vacant spot I could find for them last fall - to save their lives. Thriving!

The other day, I weeded the thriving flower bed at the mill - so wonderful that most everything survived - protected from the north wind by a concrete wall, things are blooming like mad. An elegant row of dwarf purple iris were delightful.

My latest herbal remedies are working gangbusters. Last night after a busy day - driving to the mill, stopped at a thrift shop and found a chair for Geri, took it to her. She was delighted so we moved chairs - one went out the door and two changed places. A cup of tea and then we went for lunch. Finally I made it to the mill and the mugs were still too damp so I threw a few small plates, trimmed a few mugs, pulled handles, trimmed lids and, in the end, left the rest to dry more. I was hoping to fire this week but - next week after I get back from Ontario.

Driving back to the city, I determined that I was not sitting all evening and since we never get to bed before midnight anyway, I was going to the Wheel Club for Hillbilly night. R came along and it was a wonderful break, good to see the people. I spent the eve "hiding from my fan club" as I told Jeanie when she came to see if I wanted to sing "my song". This one man, very nice, can be very insistent but my voice was great on Sunday and went strange again on Monday.

I am really getting desperate to find a second song - that is right for me. "The Frozen Logger" is my one and only! Nothing else seems quite right for me - esp for this venue which is strictly country prior to 1966! Since I play no instrument, I often end up a cappella - elsewhere, not the Wheel Club - "just give me a G". So many terrific musicians! Resolved: go more often now that I am feeling better.

Out front, I cut back a whole bunch of lilac shoots to clear the deck for other plants. It is blooming but not prolifically although it is two stories high. Resolved: cut it WAY back after the bloom.

Put the shop vac together this afternoon and am prepared to use it about 6 pm- then leave so the dust can settle elsewhere than my lungs; we are off to a movie! I even found something different to wear.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 May 15 - 09:33 PM

I finished listing the last of the doll house furniture that came from a friend's estate. It's tedious to measure every item, but that's the best way to sell this stuff to collectors. There are some also general household items listed and a couple of more things to put up tonight, once I research them.

Dorothy, the oregano harvested today is a tiny amount of what I need to move out of the way in the kitchen garden, it's taking over. So I'm harvesting it now and I'll dig some later and move it around. It makes a terrific ground cover.

Over the winter I bought some high volume SD cards for the good camera and I need to take a lot more photos of the comings and goings in the garden. I have a book in mind.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 May 15 - 12:44 PM

Just listed on eBay a pair of new shoes that my son refused to wear for graduation and now has outgrown. There are a couple of more items to list later, but I think I've waited about as long as I can for the lawn to drip dry from yesterday. I'll mow now before the next storm arrives in a couple of hours. After I finish my cup of tea.

I'm investigating Glucosamine products to see if I can fend off what feels like a bit of arthritis in my hip. Do any of you have any experience with it? There are a few varieties, in particular, if you've given it any thought. Dorothy, you're always reading those labels - what do you know about it?

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 May 15 - 02:05 PM

It was drizzling as I mowed the front, where I finished. I got a little bit done in the back and had tipped the mower to scrape out all of the caked on grass underneath when the rain started in earnest.

Now for more work in the house. I've relocated some cookbooks, tossed a couple I will never look at, and am considering what needs to go in the cupboard over the dishwasher. I feel another purge-the-cupboards episode coming on.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 13 May 15 - 08:34 PM

City:
SRS: I have been using Natural Factors "Flex-able Glucosamine Sulfate Jumbo" 500 capsules of 500 mg for about $20CAD. I order most of my supplements on line; it is generally cheaper for good quality. I use plain GS and separate Natural Factors MSM as I often do not need both. MSM is good for pain as I found after my fall last year. I use the pendulum to determine daily need - sometimes more than recommended, sometimes less, according to what I have been doing and/or eating.

I still have not done the vacuuming. We went to a movie last night at McGill U, sponsored by "Whole person care". Le Herisson (the hedgehog) was in French with English subtitles; subtitles are great for me due to my auditory processing disorder - I rarely understand any dialogue. The movie maintained the spirit of The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery, one of the top novels we have read. It was flawlessly produced. I skipped the discussion part as I did not want to have the strength of feeling dissipated.

Today, having morning life invaded by bro, I took R to his truck and continued on to the mill, stopped at thrift shop and picked up some useful pieces of clothing for each of us, trimmed and threw for almost 4 hours, then lunch with Geri whom I found in the thrift shop looking for a book and jacket for impending trip. After lunch/supper, I went back to the mill and found a possibly suitable spare jacket and a couple books, dropped them at her house and came back to the city. Happy with my day's accomplishments.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 May 15 - 10:22 PM

I will forego the pendulum, but thank you for the information on Glucosamine Sulfate.

Moved a few ornamental bowls from a kitchen cupboard to the plant area of the sun room where they can do useful service in attractively keeping water from draining out of pots onto the window sill below. Evicted a couple of items from the eBay area to the Goodwill bin.

I have a couple of pieces of software to install, and there is some eBay research to do this evening, then an early night to get to work early tomorrow.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: ranger1
Date: 14 May 15 - 06:37 AM

Got out of work a few hours early yesterday and put the time to good use: trip to the dump (I only go when my 30 gallon barrel is full, about every three months. I compost almost all organic material and recycle everything I can), trip to the recycling trailer, trip to the bottle redemption center, swept the kitchen, made dinner, and walked the dog (and took lots of photos at the same time). I meant to go to the laundromat and do the dishes, but by the time Bandit and I got back from our walk it was 7:45 and I'd run out of steam. I have all the laundry loaded in the car, so maybe I'll just stop by on my way home and get everything started and then go home and get the dog.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 14 May 15 - 09:07 AM

I spent some session time last night discharging on the feelings associated with saying goodbye to loved items, because that's what I'm doing with my share of the furniture this 3-family house holds, for the items I know will not fit in Ohio. These feelings came up when one item I gave was not received with the appreciation I had anticipated, so I was checking my expectations.)

I had an interesting sponraneous result this AM.

I didn't wake up eager to purge stuff-- I hope that's coming soon.

I woke up wanting to walk.

Just sayin'.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 14 May 15 - 10:39 AM

City:
Ah, Susan! It is hard to give up dear things and it certainly helps if the recipient is delighted. Many years ago, the phrase:" If you don't expect anything, you won't be disappointed!" came to me in a "flash of light". Still not easy!

The pendulum, SRS, is working with one's inner self to determine the need. It is not a ouiji board! It has saved me money as I only take what I need, not what the company "recommends", or more than rda if that is what body needs. It is part of how I have been able to heal myself over these last few years. R laughs his head off; he is a "scientist". I don't use it around him. But I once had cause to use it in front of a PhD non-believer and I saw his mouth open in astonishment as he saw it change direction. He could see how steady I was holding the string. Each of us draw our own lines. Scientists tell us vitamin C does not work - Works for me - gangbusters. Some do not believe in herbs. Their loss.

Years ago in Ontario, I planted oregano and it took over the world! What I have here is too well behaved.

Off to the mill to pick up things I want to take to Ontario. R's truck is indisposed so we will not take anything big; just what fits in my little Scion. Maybe I can trim yesterday's pots and do more sorting while there. R is desperate to get away - to "Beaver Haven", he dubbed it this morning.

Beautiful Day!

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 14 May 15 - 12:03 PM

DP, "delighted" would have been way beyond my hopes. Just letting me know it arrived would have been.... at the other end of the spectrum. But thanking someone ELSE for it was not on my list of anticipated outcomes! ;-) Next time SUSAN goes to the pot office!

~S~

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 14 May 15 - 12:04 PM

LOL, POST office

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 14 May 15 - 12:49 PM

I just spent another hour further un-making the former sleeping attic that was a housemate's space for awhile-- cleaning up the hidden parts of her mess-- and organizing my MOVING BOXES to make room for more boxes as they accumulate. UCKY!!! But one more trip up there on a cool day will finish whipping the boxes into shape. I COULD have stayed up there longer.... but you know, my back was sore, and I have a walking date or this evening to see how far I can get!

I cleaned up a spilled pile of bulb-starter mix, first, and I brought down the accumulated linens from up there to wash and put away. Biscuit was kind enough to "bless" the space for me just before I stopped-- another time I'll watch her cues to knock off, more closely.

~S~

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 May 15 - 12:04 AM

This evening I took about 45 minutes (until it was too dark to see safely) and mowed more of the back yard. I have about 3/4 of it left, but this at least gives shorter turf around the back porch, a path to the back, and a route to the compost and the clothesline area. Like there'll be dry weather for hanging out laundry any time soon. . .

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 15 May 15 - 11:40 AM

City:
Waiting for R - the story of my life! I could write a book! All ready for trip to Bancroft except putting food in cooler - which will serve as fridge until an electric one arrives. No truck this week means no fridge... I've lived without before. Only hoping for running water this month! But we have the stream!

Trip to mill yesterday: managed to find a place to get the oil changed quickly and no fuss; usual garage is booked until next week and I just did not plan ahead. Too much else on my mind.

Also trimmed lids and garlic pots - hoping some of the lids will fit! Got creative putting air slots in pots. Watered indoor plants really well and closed some of the drapes to cut down on heat. Caught Geri as I was leaving, to wish her a safe journey this week also.

Then back to city to watch Big Bang, have supper, do a load of laundry. About 10 pm, I was suddenly nauseous and dizzy. Made it to the bed; lying down I was able to assess the situation. Asked R to bring me a cup of warm water with a tiny bit of apple cider vinegar. I felt the malaise leave. Must have eaten something. Totally fine this morning. ACV is definitely good for food poisoning and the like. I took a small bottle with me when I went to Mexico years ago.

I guess I have said it before but my level of feeling good has increased so much since starting the herbal for lymphatic congestion that I am elated. Instead of wanting to go sit down ALL the time, I look around for what else to do. Just need to put the laundered sheets back on the bed when they are dry and hope for R to come soon. The traffic will be very nasty later in the day for this big long weekend.

I was afraid we would have to stop at Lowe's to pay the bill as my bank would not add it on line. I phoned the local store and got through eventually to a nice man who told me the secret formula; so that bill is paid and we can take back roads. R really needs this break and I need to be "home".

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 May 15 - 12:05 PM

Dorothy, I looked up "lymphatic congestion" and landed on an herbal treatment involving a plant I grew up calling "Bedstraw." Galium sp. There are a variety of them, one that grows in my yard every spring. Interesting. It's tall and happy with all of the rain we've had this year.

It's raining today. Again. Heavy rains predicted for the weekend. It looks like a great opportunity to work in the house some more.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 May 15 - 12:40 AM

A nice surprise this evening, one of the items on eBay sold already. That probably means I asked too little, but since I wasn't sure if it would sell at all, this is a good compromise. :)

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 May 15 - 05:02 PM

I have assayed the tasks around the house to make it look good for company in a few weeks time. Bathrooms and kitchen are at the top of the list, and I think spending time heating and removing old caulking compound in the bathroom at the back of the counter top will give a fresh look (after I clean off the mildew behind each faucet fixture). A trip to Goodwill netted me a couple of attractive soap dishes, a shower caddy (to keep Zeke from eating my bars of soap!) and a couple of decorative vases.

The kitchen counter caulk needs replacing also, and today I also picked up a couple inexpensive oval plates to use for stuff (soap bottles, sponges, scrubber pad) beside the sink. There were old plastic produce trays in use before. 58 cents well spent. :)

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 May 15 - 10:44 PM

This evening it took about 90 minutes to heat and scrape out eight feet of old grout. It's hot work with the hair dryer blowing against the wall to warm the grout compound, but that does make it a lot easier to remove. I'll go over the area this evening with bleach and tomorrow see about re-grouting the area. I didn't take a "before" photo, but I could stand to do this in the kitchen and master bathroom also, so have other opportunities.

The garden is soaked, we had several inches of rain last night, but I pulled a few weeds and spread a bag of wood mulch over one bed. I've pulled the grass from around a bunch of self-seeded basil seedlings to get my hedge started for the year. The onions aren't very big - they do better with less water.

I cleared out the laundry room a bit because I'm tired of having to move laundry baskets every time I want to turn on the dryer. I have to keep a small trash receptacle up there (to keep Zeke out of the trash) but with that and the baskets, it was awkward. It looks better now.

We have less chance of rain the next couple of days (20%) so perhaps it will dry enough to mow. I'm continually having to figure out how to get that done with the lawn literally growing too tall overnight. Mid to late week we're in the 60% chance every day. El Nino at work.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 18 May 15 - 11:12 AM

Beaver Haven!:

LONG trip on Friday. R was not ready until 2 pm and traffic was already built up so we took an alternate route out of town - an extra half hour but got onto a highway rather than a parking lot. R slept for a while so I stayed on the highway until he woke up - he prefers secondary roads. We sure got it! Ended up on a dirt road that I wondered if ever.... Finally came out to a paved road. We have now SEEN that part of Ontario! Went through Merrickville- an old town making the most of its gorgeous stone buildings and position on the Rideau Canal - a destination to which we will return when we have more time and it is not a holiday weekend.

Stopped for supper in Perth about 7 pm. (Had we taken the highway, we would have been here by 7 pm!) I was really hungry and we had a mediocre meal but OK. At 8 we were back on the road - DARK and RAINY and trafficky. This would have been fine on the highway but on the secondary road, the headlights of oncoming traffic - lots of it - made it impossible to see the road at times. I discovered that even on the little travelled last lap, headlights of the vehicle behind made life a misery - I would slow down until they were forced to pass! When someone was in front of me, I stayed WAY behind so they would not suffer my lights. Arrived about 10:30, exhausted but happy to be here,

So, We spent a day just being here, visited the Art Gallery where R become involved in a lengthy discussion of something esoteric. I went elsewhere - library, coffee shop for 3 Morning Glory muffins and hoped it would soon end. My auditory processing disorder makes it impossible for me to participate; I really have little idea what people are saying.

Not a great deal practical was accomplished other than grocer shopping, and we went to the open mike about 20 minutes out of town where I connected with a few people I knew before and sang my song. I found out it was strictly "over 50" and not happening again until September. Good to be able to talk with people who know things as the sound system was so bad even R could not understand. "Now I know what you are dealing with all the time."

Sunday, R worked diligently on the water system and I worked on clearing soil away from the house. I can only work in half hour to one hour segments with rests in between but feel better for doing it and my right knee seems to be the better for being active. He got the pump working then found numerous leaks. About 9:30, he thought he heard fireworks but when we drove into town there was NO ONE there. Someone must have done their own somewhere nearby. So back home to hit mosquitoes - the doors were open all day and the "wonderful" screen door kept falling down.- an early night.

So after a nice BF, we are back to our tasks. We do have running water but leaks need to be addressed. We also have some flowers of some sorts coming up - and tons of couch grass and other weeds.

Warm muggy day - the sort when "that's not rain, that's the excess humidity falling!"

SRS: Glad to hear bedstraw is good for something! It is probably in this "cleaver's combo."

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 18 May 15 - 03:44 PM

Beaver Haven:
Still pecking away at removing dirt from against the sills. The east one seems fairly solid. I actually managed to get down on my knees to work --- AND get up again! More than once! The more I work the body, the better it works.

R is pessimistic about the beaver. It has not repaired the dam so it "must have moved on".

A wonderful wind blowing through as the rumbling of a potential storm has been going on for near an hour.

While I would like the water to run at least minimally, I am hoping he will be able to take a break to visit some friends today.

I managed to organize the storage area yesterday and have poles for screened tent ready to re-construct next time I come. The mosquitoes and black flies are becoming abundant.

Saturday we missed out on an auction but found a "Storage Surplus" - sale of odds and sods. When I walked in, the first thing I saw was a set of four goblets - "I made those!?" Told the guy in charge; asked for a deal. He gave them to me. The woman for whom I made them was a good friend who died a few years ago. This man had helped her husband move and had a great deal of my friend's unsold arts- crocheting and photos as well as some of her collection of pottery. He was selling the stuff for Bob. So we had a nice chat.

We also bought a beautiful large salad bowl - a small chip on the outside of the rim but lovely brush work - by a nearby potter. I recognized the brush work. A potter's work is personal. I was delighted to get these goblets back. They have a beautiful (to me) honey amber glaze that I could not sell in the 80s but Heather and I liked it. Maybe I will try again; It looks rather like the dark clay is dipped in honey. Could not sell shades of brown back then no matter how beautiful I thought it was.

Today we went to the hardware store and while R was deciding what would do the job I had a great talk with a campground owner who offered free canoeing and kayaking! Also a long discussion on his township council and its failings. And who to talk to to get things done correctly, etc. And he offered me a kiln.

The rumbling has stopped; no rain yet. I must remember to unplug things if we leave, or a storm comes while we are here.

R seems to be happy - working away and solving problems, with no one telling him what to do or how! Mumbling to himself the whole time! Guess I shall go dig some more.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: ranger1
Date: 18 May 15 - 04:28 PM

I love brown and earth-tone pottery, Dorothy. One of my absolute favorite mugs is a reddish-brown glaze with a dark-colored animal figure (a goat based on a rock painting from Arches National Park in Utah) on it by Ann Schunior. While everyone else was exclaiming over the blue mugs, I was going for the brown ones. The mugs with the African animal motifs are perfect with that particular color glaze, reminds me of the photos I've seen of plains animals in silhouette against African sunsets.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 15 - 05:58 PM

Dorothy, there has been a tornado warning issued for your area. Get to a news channel on radio, internet or TV. Soonest. BM

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 15 - 06:12 PM

Dorothy:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/tornado-warning-expands-to-bancroft-hastings-highlands-1.3078359

BM

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 15 - 06:17 PM

Would anyone who is in touch with Dorothy on Facebook please let her know about this. Thank you. BM

The place they have there has no basement.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 May 15 - 06:25 PM

Done, Guest.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 May 15 - 06:28 PM

DP was last active on FB 4 hours ago so is unlikely to see the warning there. If u have fone for local contacts, suggest you try that, BM.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 15 - 06:40 PM

Thanks, Susan. It'll likely end up being a bad wind storm or hail, but better safe than sorry. I'll try Robin's email.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST
Date: 18 May 15 - 06:59 PM

The tornado warning was reduced to severe thunderstorm warning by Environment Canada. Sorry to sound the alarm. Thank you very much, Susan. BM

PS Sorry for any inconvenience.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 May 15 - 07:25 PM

The thing about high winds and tornadoes is that while they may lift and remove your personal clutter, they're bound to leave someone else's behind in its place. In no particular order. Or structure. Thanks, #. We're still under a week or more of "spring weather" here ourselves, and it seems to stretch in long strands of storms from Texas to Ontario and Quebec.

Getting back to alternate day fasting, finally. The stress of the end of the semester is finished, making it easier to work on other things. Summers on campus are sometimes a bit surreal, there are few people around and it's peaceful. Hot and peaceful.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 May 15 - 10:53 PM

I had to change the lawnmower oil (it had been forever since it was last changed) and then fix the handle (a knob popped off and it was coming apart). But I finished the front, though there may be spots I missed. I left the streetlight side of the yard till last. Now a chicken is roasting, to use for meals this week. I dropped on a handful of garden herbs and things I pulled by accident (a few small onions came out with handfuls of grass).

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 19 May 15 - 02:38 PM

Art Gallery:

Thank you, dear friend, for your concern. I did see a notice on line and pulled plugs on everything before leaving to go to dinner. All that rumbling and all we got was a rain storm on Selby Hill - about 10 min. I suspect our little house would be gone long since if it were not in a protected area. But tornados are peculiar. I once sat on a porch chatting with someone while the rain poured down. The next day - five miles away there were large trees snapped off like toothpicks and a barn without a roof. We do have tornados!

The house now has cold running water. I am doing my volunteer stint and R is working on - I don't know what. He said he wanted to get a lot done today. Maybe hot water. There is a leak in the hot water lines - somewhere - so he plans to put in totally new lines - plastic so they don't break when they freeze, he says.

Supper last night with our friends in Lake St. Peter. We took the chicken and pie and they gave us a nice pot of oregano which is already planted in front of the house. It did not rain at our house or at our friends.

Ranger: I think I will try some interesting uses of that Honey Amber. The Gallery Gift shop has a bunch of my pots: dark clay with transparent turquoise glaze -their choice. I am tired of looking at them! Time for something new.

Back to Montreal tonight after the volunteers meeting. NO back roads! Hope to get there before 11.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 20 May 15 - 01:08 PM

City:
Glitches galore. Maybe lists are a good way to de-clutter - R came to pick me up without changing clothes and a bit before the mtng ended; did not come back for 30 minutes. He thought the meeting would go on but it had ended 5 min after he left. He took time to close the upstairs window - a task as he had to go up a ladder through the attic hole, etc! That is a project for the future.   One thing and another we were late getting going and arrived at 12:10, the last hour being challenging. Bed felt good - I guess since I was asleep in no time. A checklist by the door would be a good idea. Verbal does not make it! And we forgot to pick the lovely rhubarb.

We do have cold running water in the bathroom and a functioning toilet!!!! The nice faucet we had bought second hand leaked as badly as the one he took out. When I go back, I will take a new one we have at the mill. I should be able to install it. I've done this before.

My volunteer day went well, interesting conversations with various people. The meeting went well but my auditory processing was in the sub-basement. I told the secretary I was looking forward to the minutes to find out what happened.

Today, after a good bf, I took R to his vehicle and did some groceries, unloaded car and loaded the washing machine - which is now ready to go into dryer. I am still reveling in feeling good energy. Now, having left the portable wheel at Beaver Haven and it is late to go to the mill, I wonder what I can do today. If I sit too long, I feel wretched and joints start to ache. ....

Our brief summer is over and the weather is cool and windy, and dusty. But blue sky and sunshine is nice.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 21 May 15 - 11:46 AM

The adoption agent is coming within the next month for the first of three home study visits. This time is just paperwork so the house isn't her focus but it still needs to be super clean in my opinion. I am beginning that process today. Talk about motivating. Clutter will be picked up or tossed in fast order in all lived in rooms and then a deep cleaning will take place a week before she arrives and then minimally again the day before she gets here. Things are moving way faster with this adoption and we are so excited!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 May 15 - 05:37 PM

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Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 21 May 15 - 10:08 PM

City:
Exciting times, Michelle!

Not wanting a reprise of yesterday, I dealt with a few details/emails and phoned a woman about a screen door. She had not put a measurement! We had a nice chat and then she phoned back and said it was my size so I headed for Lancaster, Ontario - about an hour. Well, except for construction! So I phoned from the first service centre and told her I would not make it before she had to leave. She said she would leave it out back and if I liked it I could leave the $20 in the "red mail box by the back door".

No longer in a rush, I had a talk with a nice young woman in the Ontario Tourism part of the centre, telling her about Bancroft and the Gemboree, adding to her knowledge of the area. Picked up a few pieces of info. Then on to Lancaster and an ATM and bought rope, went to the address where Fern's husband was cutting the blooms off the rhubarb. He helped put the door on the roof and left me alone to tie it on - my way - commenting that "you have moved a few things". It is a ratty old wood door but interesting and will do the job.   

Then back to Quebec and the mill where I unloaded and sorted, watered plants - the bucket I left on the front step was full of water- and looked for clock works - I have a bunch and plan to make a couple clocks but needed to know the size hole I needed to make before firing. Finally found them after looking through everything several times - right there!

Loaded the kiln then discovered I had neglected to put handles on the 4 teapots! Also had forgotten to load them into kiln or I would have discovered it sooner! So I wrapped them in wet towels to re-dampen them so I can put on handles tomorrow. There will be enough pots for a second bisque firing. I redeemed myself by throwing some salad bowl sized bowls and a couple mid sized. Finished before 6, started the kiln, and came back to city to watch Big Bang x3 tonight! and delete emails, etc. Well pleased with a productive day.

A beautiful day, too.

R just phoned. He is running out of gas somewhere in the Laurentians! With any luck he will make it to Lachute - AND get something to eat! He went north on a road instead of south! He is towing a Subaru Outback someone gave him. Hope it is worth it! I thought he was doing that this morning - but best laid plans...

Yesterday, two of his guys dismantled a 10x13 garden shed - the one we bought for $100 and a mug! It cost $340 in labour to take it apart and is now ensconced on a flatbed trailer to be towed to Bancroft by a gas-guzzling flat bed truck (de-clutter the wallet) - loaded with a fridge and K cabinets, sofa, love seat, and... whatever will fit - when R has time to make the trip. In other words- moving clutter from the mill to beaver haven! HMMMMMM???? It's rather nice with only 3 lawn chairs, 2 TV tables and a bed!

Good news - R has found gas and is on his way. I am SO glad I do not have to go fetch gas for him - wandering around the Laurentians in the dark is NOT my idea of anything to do.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 22 May 15 - 07:09 AM

I've finished my play with the alarm for now. The (hacked - Visonic don't publish it) description of the protocol wasn't as complete as I'd expected but it contained enough for my needs. I'm not entirely happy with my use of XPL but it was the easiest route for me to take as my existing programs work with that without modification to code.

(My main server just passes this text format around to other stand alone components that interface between it and hardware, eg. my new alarm program is a sort of Visonic to/from XPL component. I just "invent" a schema and add an entry to one database table like:

schemaid: "visonic.jf", description: "Visonic Alarm interface", address type: "ac", nodisplay: "address,unit", action:"update".

And in another say tell it that commands are "Arm Home", "Arm Away" and "Disarm".

And that's it. The server then knows enough to work with it.).

Here is a snapshot of my simple PC based control panel which communicates with the server. I'd maybe like to separate security items out to a new tab but it works as is. I can see event changes eg. an alarm motion sensor is tripped and I see the current status of the alarm panel (eg. is it armed) and the sensors (door open, tamper alert, battery low, etc.).

I can also use this data in my scripts so if say the front room sensor was tripped when the alarm system is in armed state, I could turn the lights on in there and tell the camera to start emailing pictures. As it stands I can also arm/disarm the panel from there but I'm not sure I want that..

I've got one outside light to change (I thought a bulkhead would be right but it didn't really work and have a 10W flood to go there instead). After that, maybe I do have a big clear out and take a break. I still owe Pip for some of the stuff I'm supposed to be paying for (in the rush to get things done, I got ahead of my own finances) and maybe, while there are not really many lights, etc. here, maybe as a bit of a home project, I've had enough for a while.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 22 May 15 - 12:24 PM

The crib has been disassembled....whew...what a job! The carpet has been vacuumed and the new big boy bed is assembled and awaiting fresh sheets to come out of the dryer. There is some major clean up and rearranging to be done....probably will happen today and tomorrow and that room is DONE! YES!

Pete is home for a long weekend (YAY!) and he built a rabbit hutch for the little bunny we found on the side of the road. It's a sweet little bunny condo!

I am feeling accomplished and ready to tackle more on my to do list!

Have a great day everybody!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 May 15 - 11:15 PM

I'm impressed with all that people are doing. Jon, you never know when that setup is going to work in your favor. A co-worker had a scare this week - her house was broken into while she was in it. She ignored someone ringing the bell then knocking, and when she finally headed toward the front door, she realized they were trying to kick it in. She retreated through the bedroom (locked that door) and into the bathroom (locked that door) and called 911. When police arrived he was leaving, and tried to run them over. He was shot but got away, to be captured later in the parking lot of his apartment complex. The trick is figuring out how to make the house look too robust, not vulnerable to a burglar who chooses randomly (it seems) from houses on a street he chooses to travel down.

I have an ice axe near the door (mine is like the longer one in that photo) - I think I'd shout through the door that if they enter they'll get their effing brains blown out. That bluff is probably enough to stop most burglars - but if not, the ice ax is a wicked weapon and I know how to use it. And 911 is on speed dial.

Four bags of clothing are in the car to be dropped off at a thrift store donation center tomorrow. There are a couple of books I missed and probably other items as well. My daughter and I went through donation items that came from her brother's room and she kept a few things, and I kept a couple of shirts he doesn't wear that I like. The rest is out of here. I'll work in his room some more this weekend to make it ready for guests, and I expect there will be more trips to Goodwill soon.

Must work in the garden, but more rain is forecast. We haven't had any really hot days yet, probably breaking a record for cool days this time of year. I'll do what I can - I've usually had my first sunburn by now, but I've barely seen the sun this spring.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 May 15 - 01:11 PM

I had plans to hand two boxes to my mail carrier today, but the post office has thrown a rub in the works. There used to be a great desktop application that let me print a label with the barcodes and tracking numbers, then I could affix stamps and mail it that way (you always have to hand a parcel to a real person). The updated application now only works for businesses that have postage permits, so I can no longer print for parcel or media packages and pay with stamps. I have a couple of boxes ready to go and I'll have to wait till next week and take them to the post office.

Today is drizzly but I think I'll be able to weed some in the vegetable garden. I'll take out a garden shear and cut some of the grass around plants if it is too muddy trying to pull it out by the roots.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 23 May 15 - 08:31 PM

Mill:
Waiting for the glazes to dry in the loaded kiln, thanks to my super boo boo of over firing the bisque The pots still took glaze but are taking forever to dry. I spent about an hour and a half trimming the pots I threw Thursday - nice bowls. Then built up the energy and inclination to glaze. Took me until about 5! So I did not finish until 8.I got so "into it" that I was just focussed on trying a couple different things - then had to run and get the dish pan and pour glaze into it as the bucket was not big enough to dip the big bowl. I guess I need to find some larger round containers - Dollar store!

Now I need to prepare something to eat on the way back to the city, close the kiln and get on my horse and go.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 23 May 15 - 09:00 PM

Four loads of laundry done, dishes done, a long hand written letter to a dear friend, awesome dinner made and enjoyed (Steak on the grill, roasted asparagus and mushrooms with balsamic sauce, summer squash with red peppers, wild rice and a pineapple angel food cake). Floors swept, counters cleaned off and now to find a little something else to do before bed. I am fired up and knocking things off my ta-da list! We WILL be READY!!!!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 May 15 - 01:47 AM

It was a busy day here as well, mostly spent indoors because we have a full weekend of heavy weather to look forward to. Two parcels are ready to mail next week, several bags of stuff dropped off at the thrift store donation center, though I did go in the store and find a few things that go with sets I've been working on here (glassware, mostly). Bought dog food, and now need to tend to the dogs - two of them are shedding like crazy.

I baked bread for BLTs - the first large garden tomatoes are ripe. I have the lettuce and bacon at the ready. I made a banana cream pie because I had two large ripe bananas to use and I haven't made a pie for a while and this is one of my favorites. Meringue looks a little odd, it pulled away from the crust, but it tastes wonderful.

I've set out materials for tomorrow to decide which grab bar to put up in the hall bathroom. After that I'll return the one I didn't use (I picked up two lengths to avoid having to go back to the store later if I changed my mind about one) and get some paint. The bathroom could use a touchup. All of this is getting ready for guests in a couple of weeks - taking a look at the house through someone else's eyes is a great way to see chores needing doing.

Thunder in the background tonight, and a tornado warning until 4am. There is nothing like waking to a storm and the tornado sirens to make Memorial Day weekend memorable.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 24 May 15 - 04:05 AM

Your way ahead of us on tomatoes, SRS. Ours haven't produced their first flowers yet. Still, we're on course for our own growing season. As usual, we are growing std/salad ones in the greenhouse and a few outdoors and cherry ones in hanging baskets. We don't grow a large (as in beefsteak) one. Lettuce are "pickable" now. Not fully hearted but we will start using them now rather than buy from the shops.

Had rhubarb and apple crumble for tea last night. The apple was frozen (in stewed form) from last year but the rhubarb was fresh from the garden.

I've still got a few veg plants indoors and am hoping a particular nurse comes to do my back this week. I gave her a couple of plants last time I saw her but said there should be more after I sorted out what we were going to plant. Either way, I think I need to shift what remains (I think a couple of cucumbers, 2 types of tomato, 2 sweet peppers and 2 basil) this week.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 24 May 15 - 11:54 AM

I had WAY too much fun Friday with my honeh at a local festival that was JUST my size and speed! Took the walker for insta-seating, and clocked about a mile in about two hours of music, he althy food, people watching, photography, and a little romance. At the top of the bridge I just HAD to explore, my hip muscles (chronicall weakest) clanged a final warning that they were DONE, so we took turns pushing each other back down the bridge ramp towards the car for a little muscle recovery, laffing all the way. It was a great day for learning as a couple what I can really do this summer, and it was the first activity from the "Honey Let's Go" folder whicht resulted from a mailing of ad papers I went thru Thursday afternoon while he was stuck at a meeting.

Once again we learned the hard way: how fast a little hill climb can use up the muscles-- just like a scooter battery-- so future expeditions will mean any hilly parts go LAST, and preferably towards the car!

Only needful item I hadn't packed: 1 hair tie. The walker basketry easily held everything else needed. What a great night's sleep I got! Next venue needs wider paths so we can walk side by side. Probably a bike path, so I can also calibrate the pedometer that is so far not making useful data. Faulkner will come, since his sore back and mine need about the same amount of walking.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 24 May 15 - 08:12 PM

Today was a much slower day here. Jeremiah was up with nightmares early this morning. Pete got up with him first and then went downstairs but I could hear something weird on the monitor so I went in to check on him and found him under his covers, trembling and whimpering. I snuggled with him for a bit, sent him to the potty and tried to get him settled back into bed but no luck. The poor child was shaken. I sent him downstairs with his Daddy where he stayed for maybe an hour or so before he went back to bed for a bit. Pete being the wonderful human being that he is, let me go back to sleep and I slept WAY in....think 11:00!!! So....today I mostly just did dishes and cooked for both today and tomorrow. We are going to have a little picnic at home. :) Yep. Today was a lot of porch sittin' with Pete as we watched Jeremiah play with his freshly filled little pool. Life is good. :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 May 15 - 08:22 PM

Finding the studs behind the wall when there is tile on the entire wall is a trick, and I first resorted to measuring the other side of the wall (with marginal results), then trying to tell where the studs are from along the very top of the shower stall (but run into the horizontal members). I'm going to have to run this grab bar from the very edges of the short wall because there will be studs behind the corners where the wallboard behind the tile meets. If at least two long screws hit the studs on each end it should be okay, and where there isn't a stud I'll use those plastic things that hold screws tighter into sheet rock. I picked up a masonry drill to go through the tile and viewed a couple of YouTube videos to form a plan how to drill but not crack the tile.

I picked a bright yellow for the walls in there to compliment the blue Mexican tile on the shower surround. I forgot to pick up trim color, but I'll probably make that a bright white. I may have some around here already, stashed in that kitchen cupboard where all the the paint cans lived for a long time.

The space I cleared in a kitchen cabinet above the sink is where the white ceramic dishes are now going to live. Small baking dishes, some with lids, and small ramekins with heavy-duty plastic covers that I use for butter. There are probably a few more pieces around that will move up there also. The island has one of those corner cabinets that has two doors near the sink and one on the far side of the counter that is large and I usually forget what is stored there. That's where they used to live and is why I often forgot to use them.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 May 15 - 12:11 AM

The grab bar is up. It took a number of tries to get the holes through the tile to the correct size so the screws could pass through but not put pressure sideways on the tile (screws are supposed to cut into the wood as they pass through, but that had to happen behind the tile). It looks like a grab bar in a tub, not ugly, not attractive. Functional. I think it took longer to assemble all of the bits and pieces to do the job than to actually drill the six holes and put up the bar. I used a silicone sealer on the screw holes to avoid any water problems.

Subject: RE: Declutter (x-hoarders), Fitness Apr-June 2015
From: GUEST,wys sans cookee
Date: 25 May 15 - 11:39 AM

Because of White Privilege, I can commemorate Memorial Day (including knowing and teaching its Black origins) with a snazzy ADA scooter paid for by others, instead of mourning a family member shot by police.

~S~