'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Jul 15 - 03:00 PM

After losing an auction on eBay for a used steam juicer I found one at Etsy for a very reasonable price, and reasonable shipping. It is older, heavy cast aluminum, from the original Finnish company that started making these things, but it needed a replacement hose. The pot would have gone for a lot more if it had a good hose, but I found one (finally!) and it arrived today (it cost half as much as the used pot set did). I'm now in business for steaming and juicing - but still need to find a food mill. I've borrowed the duo from a friend for many years, but decided it was time to find my own.

Good luck with the ants, MA. They are a plague here this year also.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Penny S.
Date: 10 Jul 15 - 04:55 PM

I haven't been here for ages, and I haven't been able to garden properly this year anyway. The village had the opportunity to be recabled for TV, broadband and phone, and the old route lay through my garden. I had to leave the probable route clear of planting, so all my veggies are in bags or pots.

I've finally been getting down to moving them around and tidying up. And discovering problems. The guy working in the garden was not a gardener. He flung cable about over plants, pulled a bramble stem that I had been trying to root in a pot out. The two of them demolished the duckboard door mat, and I have spent time today nailing it back together, and crowning idiocy, one of them tipped out the 80 litres of rainwater I had in a plastic bin, with a lid on. I had moved it away from the cable route - I assume it was in the way when they were fixing the cable along the wall at the top of the first storey. They could have asked. Wouldn't you think that it was in a container with a lid might mean that it was wanted? Fortunately I have another tank, and we don't currently have a hose ban.
I've got to fix up some guttering to fill it again, a job I wasn't intending to do next.

I've got to prune a forsythia, a rambling rose, a philadelphus, build a rockery, plant some new veggies, transplant a choisia and a hydrangea, fasten back some bramble stems, and all before I go on a trip to Iceland at the end of the month.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 10 Jul 15 - 11:20 PM

Penny, it sounds like you should have guarded your garden with a sharpened spade fork or hefty shovel, and knocked those loons upside the head (if not given them a sharp poke in the backside!) for their mess.

I took it a bit easier today, no mattock and chopping out weeds, instead I mowed the back (a large job by itself, but less strenuous overall) and made a couple of bags of mulch. I have an electric wood chipper and did it in a couple of steps - I trimmed a bunch of branches from a pile near the compost to the right size and length for the chipper, then ran them through said chipper into a bag. They were spread around the existing plants in the newly-revealed garden. I made a good dent in the pile of branches and the mulch is the best sort, from trees in this yard. Tomorrow I'll buy some commercial mulch for the garden paths and buy more bedding plants and get these newly cleared areas planted for a fall crop. I have seeds in also and this time of year they should sprout almost overnight, but I want to get a head start on some of this stuff. I need peppers, in particular, to be happy. Lots of hot peppers.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Jul 15 - 06:11 PM

I'm not certain that this site is only for a North American audience, you'll have to poke around to see what all is there, but apparently for a $5 one-time membership, there are professionals who will refer member users to find the right parts if they are wanting to repair their own appliances. http://www.applianceblog.com/. I've seen how simple some repairs were in the past (but how expensive they were simultaneously!) and thought I'd like to be able to just get the part and do it myself. With so many repairs consisting of pulling out one modular piece and plugging it its replacement, it is worth the try.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 11 Jul 15 - 06:12 PM

These past few weeks have shown little movement on the scale despite more movement and better eating at least until this week....it all seemed to let go this week! I'm down 5.8 pounds this week! HOORAY!

Michelle

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Jul 15 - 08:15 AM

Friday night we enjoyed a tiny little street festival about an hour away. Another one that I can easily do next year without the walker. They even had chairs at tables at the main music stage! The most amazing thing for me was that there was a free town parking lot just steps from the entry into the festival's entry point by that main stage-- with ample open parking spaces. The next night would have been the paid band, but the karaoke contest at the main stage was actually a riot. Met some nice people.

~Susan

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 12 Jul 15 - 10:22 AM

The back yard is looking good, and over in the compost and brush area the pile of branches was added to. I trimmed off the lowest whorl of the baldcypress in order to give myself more clearance under the tree, so those limbs are drying out before chipping.

Weeding with water today on a bed that rarely gets watered but is now full of tall Bermuda grass. And this afternoon, a trip to the nursery for plants to put around the garden aiming for a fall crop.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Jul 15 - 06:06 PM

There is stuff at the curb that I hope will be picked up before trash time tomorrow, and stuff that belongs in the trash that might also get picked up before trash time tomorrow. The garage has a lot more floor space now, though there has always been room to park in there. Now there is room to park and work at the same time.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Rumncoke
Date: 12 Jul 15 - 06:54 PM

The last time I went to the optician I went to Specsavers, as my husband insisted I should. I was told that they had checked my prescription with my previous optician, so when I got my new glasses and was told that the blurring would go away and it was due to the new prescription needing to be got used to, I believed them.

Now I have been back to my old opticians and during testing I could not see properly out of my left eye.

My glasses were checked, and the Specsavers ones had no 'prism' - so my brain has adjusted to them by taking no notice of what my left eye sees.

Thank goodness they did not give me any driving glasses.

It means that I have to buy two pairs of glasses instead of just one, and I need to do eye exercises to try to correct the fading out.

Truly is it said that you get what you pay for.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 13 Jul 15 - 12:12 PM

this may be why i've never married -- they couldn't take me always being right :)

finally got some free water last night

at the sing, i sat next to someone who turned out to have laryngitis (sigh) and since i pick these things up quite easily, i woke up w/ a very sore throat last night.

a day to finish that library book, before i have to give it back.

MA

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Jul 15 - 07:21 PM

I missed taking one bag down to the curb, but when the truck came back down the street on the other side I walked over and handed it to them. I don't know who picked up what, but it is all gone now. The garage really does look nice. I'm thinking of putting up a ceiling fan over the workbench that would also keep the air moving better for the dogs.

MAG, it's good to see you finally logged into mudcat. Congratulations on getting all of that sorted out.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 14 Jul 15 - 10:33 AM

The yard is looking good, all new plants are in place except a couple of squash that will be planted this evening and a citronella geranium that I need to find a good pot for.

Watering setup is working for the back and side of the house, now the soaker hoses need to be pulled into place for the front and other side. That may also happen this evening. And walking through the house to examine rooms not entered regularly to be sure no ants are making themselves at home, as happened last summer at this time. The Housewife's Lament included ants.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 14 Jul 15 - 11:22 AM

Did i say i had Greenway in? we'll see if their mole and ant treatments help.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST,Dorothy
Date: 14 Jul 15 - 02:08 PM

Highland Grove Library!
Just to let folks know - My computer died a week ago Monday and I have an appointment for Thursday to have help. Until then, life goes on, even without a computer!

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Jul 15 - 12:41 AM

Sometimes I wish we were all a lot closer in proximity, so we could help out with some of the projects each other is working on. I would help you work on your computer, Dorothy, and I'd love to get my hands on Andrea's and Linn's yards and gardens. And just about everything going on at Michelle's house. We have a lot to learn from each other.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 15 Jul 15 - 11:32 AM

thank the powers that BE FOR GOOD LIBRriwa ...

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 15 Jul 15 - 01:53 PM

Swimming lessons cancelled for the day as it is too cold outside. I went to visit my nana in the nursing home and took her some Snapple which she loves. Stopped by a new local butcher shop and picked up some ground beef to make a pot of chili. It's currently simmering on the stove and I am about to rearrange the final upper cabinet in the kitchen. Afterwards, I am going to clear at least two surfaces....the first being a ledge over the sink and the other being the top of our CD rack. I'll post photos on FB. :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST,LilyFestre
Date: 15 Jul 15 - 08:03 PM

So much for the kitchen, I spent all afternoon chasing after 4 pigs on the loose. I'm happy to say that they are all home, the fence is mended....Team Lawrence ROCKS!

Michelle, Queen of the Pig Patrol.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 15 Jul 15 - 10:03 PM

Pigs are smart, you know this latest group probably saw the boar get out last week and made a break for it. Now you'll have to pay very close attention to the fences.

The garden is a pleasure to work in now that I can walk into it, but it is like starting from scratch with so many bedding plants in place. I took some spinosad out to clobber the leaf footed bugs (in the stink bug family) that have been pestering the tomatoes. I sprayed tonight and I'll pick in the morning after the bugs have hopefully had time to get sick and die. I'm picking asparagus a couple of times a day and will probably get a few more meals out of this bed before I let them all grow tall again.

The house - well, it didn't get much worse lately, but it could use some attention. I do myself a favor by washing the dishes before I head to bed instead of leaving them in the sink. That's about it for right now - the next rainy day (and we'll get a few thunderstorms this summer) I'll spend working on the house.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Jul 15 - 09:12 AM

Out of sight/out of mind - the old VCR tapes are in that category, all arranged on a slim bookshelf in the hall that I walk past and rarely ever notice. Unless one of the dogs disarranges the tapes at the bottom. I need to transfer contents to DVD and move the rest of these out of the hall. That shelf would be a good one in a number of other locations, especially if it was attached to the wall.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 17 Jul 15 - 11:26 AM

I know the fences need to be well tended to however, the pigs are not really under my care....they are under Pete's care. However, since he has been at work when they have gotten out, I have to do something...can't just let them run off. The pens are in decent order but the mud has become a problem in that it is so soft where the pigs are that the posts are no longer as secure as they are when the ground is dry. There's not much to be done about that except to wait for the ground to dry and harden again. We have taken extra measures to secure the gates and so far they have held...fingers crossed that this has done the trick.

Our pigs are loved well and because they are often talked to and pet/scratched, they did really well in following us right into the pens....at least the bigger ones did. The smaller ones followed a few hours later when they were tired.

This morning we found a black lab on our front porch...not ours. It seems to be the season for the neighborhood animals to wander.

Today is a work day at home and hopefully an afternoon swim. Tomorrow is the Relay For Life for this area. It's kicking up some dust for me..likely because I've had port issues lately and my check up is overdue and further, a Teal Sister was given her angel wings 2 days ago....feeling anxious...hopefully a good work session around here will help change my focus and settle me.

Michelle

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Jul 15 - 10:44 PM

Oh. So sorry about your friend, Michelle, but you must carry the standard for them. You're good at it. I wonder if the port has passed its prime as far as use? I remember a friend here being reluctant to have hers removed, but once she did, was glad.

Long weekend ahead. More items on the list than time to do them, but what seems most important at the moment always drifts to the top.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 18 Jul 15 - 11:39 AM

Half-way through July, with another 2 months of hot weather (at least, in this locale). Pacing oneself through the chores, with the outdoor work in the morning is important. Starting laundry so the batch that can dry on the line will be dry and in the basket before the work clothes go into the washer. This way some of the plank-like towels from the line can go into the dryer with work clothes to speed the drying time. Work clothes and towels come out soft and free of lint.

Time to check for ripe grapes in the copse across the road from the house. Jelly making ahead!

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 18 Jul 15 - 05:53 PM

the indigo tomatoes taste like -- cherry tomatoes, at least they are ready now.

have discovered pluots. isn't summer great, w/ so many nice things to eat? fortunately, a friend has a tree -- she and a neighbor made a deal to get one male, one female -

did the ol' clean damp rags on the kitchen floor. some days that is all the knees will allow.

got some borrowed stuff returned to friends; makes a tad more room. (from knee replacement: walker, raised toilet seat, tub bench, numerous food container, numerous dvds ...)

books. cats. gardening. life is good. we are all ok, just as we are.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 18 Jul 15 - 06:57 PM

Steam juicer is at work rendering the first batch of this year's wild mustang grapes from across the road. They're lighter in color, not fully ripe yet (and two - three weeks later than usual). I'll blend the juice from picking for the next couple of days because I left as many green ones intact (though you need a few green ones in with the ripe ones to give the jelly good flavor). Last year the grapes were way overripe, so if I have some of that in the freezer I could blend it with this year's juice at jelly making time.

The house smells wonderful, and it'll get better, because I have to make bread also.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 18 Jul 15 - 09:11 PM

Down 2 pounds this week. I had breakfast with a friend this morning and then on to the Relay For Life. We stayed until maybe 3:00pm but it was ridiculously hot so we left. I had plans to return tonight for the speaker, luminaria and Survivor Walk but that didn't start until late and I have one very hot crabby little boy who wouldn't make it until 10:00pm if his life depended on it.

It was good to see so many friends this afternoon.

Michelle

PS. I scrubbed the heck out of the bathroom floor on my hands and knees yesterday and it did lessen some of the anxiety.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Jul 15 - 09:27 AM

Congratulations, Michelle!

I have a can of stain that I'd like to use but it hasn't been stirred in a very long time. I'll take it over to Home Depot and ask them to put it on their shaker, I'm pretty sure they will. I'll set up the loveseat on some newspapers in the garage with the door open for ventilation. I need to sweep out some of the tons of doghair before I start or I'll have a fuzzy bench! I'm looking forward to putting this bench into service. While I'm at it I have a table that needs another coat of stain.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Jul 15 - 08:09 PM

If you have enough stain or paint on your brush when you go over fuzzy stuff, you glue the fuzzy stuff into place. If it is on a rough piece of furniture like this bench, the fuzz is no longer visible.

Looks like an eBay evening.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 20 Jul 15 - 11:15 AM

Second pass at the wild grapes this morning. We're into the 100+ degree days now, so outside work needs to be finished before noon. And have a pitcher of Gatorade chilling in the fridge.

The house smells good after baking yesterday and I have to make a loaf of bread today.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 22 Jul 15 - 11:54 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 22 Jul 15 - 03:35 PM

It's a day off, but when the weather is so hot, it's not easy to enjoy it. Not so good for yard work, but eBay things are finally getting listed. And there are packages to prepare to put in the mail.

LilyFestre I hope you've been in for your checkup and that everything is fine. And the next time Rumncoke reports she'll have probably have another dozen "to do" things crossed off of her list. Penny, enjoy Iceland!

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: LilyFestre
Date: 22 Jul 15 - 06:22 PM

I finally got that one last cupboard cleaned out and reorganized. I also went through all manner of Rubbermaid, Tupperware, old Cool Whip containers, etc. Anything without a mate went in the trash. Like socks, I'm not sure how one gets lost but they do....it's much more organized and handy now. I made one cupboard strictly my lunch packing cupboard. It won't be long before both my boys, big and small, will need a daily lunch to go.

Thanks for the well wishes regarding my health. I actually go back to the chemo center tomorrow for Try #2 to access my port and allow a blood return. I don't think it will work. The next step will to be to inject something that will hopefully dissolve the fibers that are blocking things up, wait an hour + for it to work and then another try at flushing and getting a blood return for my tumor marker reading. The butterflies have already arrived. I am praying for low numbers but also for my port to work because if doesn't, I'll have to have it removed....something I am not looking forward to.

I hope all is well with everyone else!

Michelle

PS. There have been sightings of cleared countertops, tabletops, etc. ;)

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Rumncoke
Date: 22 Jul 15 - 09:35 PM

I have new glasses - and an eye that is aching after having to do some work for a change - the mammogram is done - the new equipment is much less ferocious than the older version, hardly squashes at all.

The gooseberries are ripe in the garden - I went out to pick some to cook and just sat and ate them - there's still a lot left, but I think they are too nice to cook. I must go out and give the garden a clearing out - so much has taken root out there, it needs cutting down and dragging out.
The rhubarb needs a permanent place to be planted out now it is outgrowing the big pot it has been reared in.

First, though, I will get the things ready to go to the Sidmouth Folk festival. I can't afford to hire the van for a week - thanks to the extra pair of glasses I needed to buy, but I can afford six days so it is not too much of a disaster.
One day will be taken up with going to visit someone with a knitting machine and bringing part of it back for repair, then unpacking and returning the van, and then probably having a lie down for several days. I am trying to go out walking every day to increase my fitness.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 23 Jul 15 - 10:08 AM

Beaver Haven:

Computer back. Spent 3 hours deleting/reading over 800 emails last night. Remembered to clear the trash just now. I am over-time as I determine o spend less time on computer. 10 am: time to get to the pottery wheel! Brought a kiln here last trip and have a load ready to fire - siting on deck drying. Will read and post tonight after the Faraday Open Mike. Best wishes for a good day.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 23 Jul 15 - 12:41 PM

after a 2 day bout with some kind of gut bug i am ready to return to the land of the living. 2 things i don't want to do that i have committed to doing: gym, and at least starting to clean the frig.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 23 Jul 15 - 05:41 PM

Beaver Haven:

Never made it to the wheel, except to clean up and organize. Decided to get the kiln in place for firing and found the receptacle in the back room is wrong and went off to Hardware to see if there was a way to rectify this. The WAY, I realized was to move the kiln to non-kitchen and use the stove outlet so very carefully moved kiln on a dolly and plugged it in - after moving a whole bunch of stuff out of the way! That works - for now.

Also got the brainstorm of checking in at the Bulk Food for those ever-needed buckets! YAY! Alice had 3; she apologized that they were not washed but they are free! With lids! For glazes; I always need more as I keep adding new glaze; a few that I made in small amounts, I want to make in larger. They only contained food stuffs.

Occurred to me at the volunteer meeting on Monday that most of us have fat tummies. Once upon a time, I took acidophilus capsules for bloat. Worked a charm! Is it fat of is it bloat? Put A on the list.

Since I have been back up here, I ordered fire wood from dear friend and had it delivered by his person - only 6 face cords so far but I need a better place to put more. Lloyd stacked this right off the deck at back of house. Unobtrusive and handy. I hope we can get the garden shed up here and re-constructed and can put an actual wood shed on its back side.

In talking with Lloyd, I ascertained that he does "all sorts of things". He sounded reasonably knowledgeable so I got him to put in the two new windows in the BR. What a great difference! Trees to the east and that lovely hill and sky to the west! More than double the light!

The VAN came home, with the help of a neighbour. BUT it was smoking when I got here so I got Pete to take it back to the shop and check out the motor! $2200 in repairs and safety check but no attention to the engine at all - that is not considered part of safe!

In addition to two days at the Gallery and two at the Market, many visits and a concert in the park, I managed to throw a bunch of pots - mugs, honey pots, 3 teapots - hopefully most of a kiln load which I will fire tonight- a maiden voyage for the brand new 35 year old kiln! Pots are on the deck drying in the sun and breeze of this beautiful day. Will load kiln about 6:30 and put it on low until after the open mike. Then then turn it up and up - they should finish in time to cool so I can pack them in the morning.

Then take them to Quebec tomorrow to glaze and fire. I will be back on Wednesday, hopefully with garden shed, kitchen cabinets and fridge... And Robin! Maybe even the clay play mobile.
The garden here consists of one very healthy cherry tomato and its companion basil and a healthy oregano , lots of comfrey and evening primrose and a field of wild flowers/weeds/grasses. A neighbour asked it I were going to mow the lawn -No. I prefer the flowers.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 24 Jul 15 - 09:18 AM

The hot summers here can sometimes bring activity to a standstill, but getting up early (though the early hours are most pleasant for good sleep) is a way to prevent that productivity slowdown. I need to mow, and weed the garden, both good early morning activities. I also need to work on leveling the greenhouse - a task best done after a rainstorm to make the soil around the base easier to excavate. Something I should do now, but may defer to autumn.

MAG, do you think the fridge needing cleaning contributed to the bug you experienced? I have a couple of scary-looking things to discard soon (next time I fool with the compost). Dorothy, I just loaded up on a good brand of acidophilus when a 20% off purchase coupon arrived from my favorite store for purchasing this stuff. Another mudcat member has been discussing gut health on a different venue, it's time to look into all of this again. I'm a silent member of a fermentation forum (the stuff they get up to is amazing - and sometimes kind of gross, but mostly sounds delicious) where I can learn to make more than half-sour pickles with my garden cucumbers.

Dorothy, is there an outdoor seating area at your new place? And the new place is where the firewood is being delivered? And your new kiln is at that house, or is at the mill? I'm guessing at the mill, but do you have plans to move all of that pot stuff to the new place? (I need a map!)

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 25 Jul 15 - 12:37 PM

The PBS Saturday cooking shows are on as I work around the house today. This morning I am updating an older but still functional computer by adding a small USB WiFi device so I don't have to plug this into a data port. The computer uses a wall-mounted LCD television as the monitor, and the television also is connected to a bluray player that needs a dataport. So this way I won't have to plug and unplug devices and can use them simultaneously if I choose. A computer in the kitchen is particularly handy for looking up recipes or answers during cooking. I never would have bought a computer for the kitchen, this was simply reassigned when I got the new one for my office. It's Win 7, and I don't know if I'm going to bother to update it to Win 10. It might be too old for that.

Off to putter. Enjoy your weekends, and I hope a few folks who normally lurk will report in on their progress.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: pattyClink
Date: 25 Jul 15 - 02:25 PM

Delurking as requested. Glad to see all the progress people are making this summer. I've been 'up to my ass in alligators' as they say, one small calamity seems to follow the next. Just trying to make progress on various renovation projects, too many cans of worms got opened in June and now I am trying to close one at a time, and it's 95 plus for a few weeks now and no relief in sight.

The Texas drought seems to have moved east, so every other day I am administering water to my pots and plants and bushes and parts of the yard that normally never need it.

However, I have made some progress on the whole routines and to-dos front, using the Getting Things Done book, and it's helping me see where I go wrong and keep track of what I need to do on any given day. Which is good, it's nice to have the house not looking too awful, because the visits from various plumbers and contractors are pretty frequent these days! Let us carry on and don't forget to stop and smell the peaches.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 25 Jul 15 - 06:59 PM

City:
Made it back in good time and R stopped in to say hello. We did a bit of grocery shopping and he went back to work- and came back about midnight. I was in bed and he claimed to have said "hello" which I, OF COURSE, did not hear due to the noise of the AC. He did eat two bowls of the fresh pot of cauliflower soup and most of the salad I left him in fridge. I had had to go do more groceries after he went back to work. I was too distracted by his need for ice cream and penchant for wandering off in the stores. I usually shop in a very focussed, get in and get out manner, thus not cluttering my life with lengthy shopping.

The stove wood is at Beaver and the pile is adjacent to the nice deck, against the west wall, under one of the new windows. The kiln was taken from the mill to Beaver in my car and my neighbour removed it for me and helped get it into the shed.

Acidophilus totally stopped my bloating in 24 hours. In my 50s, I was waking up with a flat tummy and by noon looked like I had swallowed a basket ball. Unfortunately, I doubt that is my problem now but I will give it a try when I get back up there. I have gotten quite spoiled. From Beaver, all stores are within 10 minute drive and the parking is easy! In the city- phooey! I finally went out to the Market late this aft for some cheeses and fruit. Booths were closing and my heart was not in it.

I thouht I would get to the mill to do glazing and fire and come back - today. However, by the time we got up and had breakfast and R went off to work... Then I wanted to write an email to Lou re the proposed Quarry Fact Sheet he had sent me. I stopped to talk with him on my way out of town yesterday am, encouraging he et correct info out. The level of misinformation in newspaper and verbal is appalling. Another type of clutter!

Then I gave myself a chunk of time to look at FB. Some really good stuff and then - dreadful news about a dear friend of 40 years. I read the newspaper reports and checked FB for info on mutual friends pages. And sat here in a state of immobility, finally phoned R and asked him to please come home so I could talk about it out loud.

Only when he had to go back to work did I pull myself together and go to the Market with the energy of a wet noodle. Came back and had some raspberries with raspberry yogurt and now am waiting for rice (my comfort food) to cook so I can eat something innocuous.

You may be curious but you really do not want to know. She is alive but will live with physical and emotional pain, of the worst kinds for the rest of her life - deaths of son and husband, and betrayal by someone close to her. She does have a strong community of support, thankfully. I have been so fortunate.

I also made inquiries about finding a home for the large box of books in Hebrew which is sitting in the LR. I photographed a few and sent the pic to a rabbi friend who knows Montreal.

For cramping, I use magnesium citrate. Works a charm. But since I have been using the Laprinol and spirulina, cramping has not been a problem, even after chocolate indulgence, which also happens less.

Maybe I shall eat some rice and take a book to bed.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 26 Jul 15 - 12:07 PM

sorry things have been so tough for you, D. you have a network here, too.

I don't think my stomach bug was from cleaning. i had the bug first. taking a break from the frig, i started scraping under the rings on my elec. stove. joy.
i do all this until my back gives out, then enjoy a nice junky book.

pouring free water all day yesterday. truly joy.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 26 Jul 15 - 08:24 PM

City:

Last night when I went back on FB to check in, a number of people had posted support and one was insistent that I chat. I asked for phone number and called him. The last person I wanted to tell what happened as his family a suffered a similar incident 30 years ago. I had barely seen him since, though always good friends of an infrequent sort. I visited his parents more often as they are nearby. Well, he sounded OK and I ended up telling him all of it and he took it very well. Then we talked about his three kids and his life. We deepened our relationship in mutual support rather than me being the strong one. He confirmed that the time we spent together 30 years ago had been helpful.

The night I met him, his parents were on the verge of putting him in hospital so I took him home for two months and gave him back to them in good shape. Last night I told him that, if it helped him, it was the thing in my life that made me sure my life was worthwhile. All it took was unconditional positive regard. Strange it may seem; I have two beautiful sons and four beautiful grandchildren but this was the thing which kept me going when I felt I had done nothing worthwhile with my life. - DEPRESSION, lack of self-esteem! Amazing how we can give to others what we do not have ourselves.

I felt better.

Anyone who wants to read about the double homicide that has rocked a whole community and changed her life forever, can google Cindy Norvell. There are several newspaper articles. She lost son (17) and husband; she (54) and her visiting brother were seriously injured; daughter (14) and niece (15) were spared and helped the young man, a foster son (19), calm down, lay down the knife and walk out to meet the police. How does one sort out their life after all that? Cindy will, somehow. I expect she will be deeply concerned for the lad who did it, as am I. Early childhood abuse is a hard thing to overcome, regardless of how caring people are later. He never got the help he needed and it has cost dearly. Sometimes love is not enough.

Today we went to Quaker Meeting. R thought we needed it. It kept me from going to the mill, again today. But R has spent the afternoon sorting papers that have been on the floor and chairs for months. Six hours now because he keeps reading stuff rather than using a to-be-read-later pile. A few inches have gone into recycling! YAY! The floor is almost clear. Now, one more chair, then he can use the computer. I WANT to be able to sit in that chair; a rocking chair is so much better than just sitting.

I may have de-cluttered the sun room by being away so long. Plants have not been watered in two weeks.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 26 Jul 15 - 10:32 PM

Dorothy, I'm so glad you're there to help your friend and you were there to help the young man from 30 years ago. This most recent event sounds horrible, yet clearly the daughter and niece kept their heads about them and prevented further bloodshed.

You use magnesium citrate for leg cramps? It is a powerful laxative in the 10 oz bottle - it's what they have you take overnight before abdominal surgery. Do you take a pill or small amount of the liquid?

Michelle, there have been similar brief sightings of table and countertops here. But then I started to do some canning. . . you know how that looks. Huge pots, cases of jars, lids, boxes of stuff, and accouterments of the job (funnel, gripper thing for taking jars from hot water, saucers for this and that). At least I got all sticky things into the sink and then washed, before I headed out to help a friend prune some shrubs around her pool. Her grandson hasn't been over to do the trimming and mowing, but at least the shrubs are looking good.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 27 Jul 15 - 11:46 PM

Yesterday I put into practice the statement from an article I read: would you buy it today if you had the money? There was a rolled up foam mattress in the rafters collecting dust - not only would I not buy a new one, I would never use this one. Out to the curb. I also tossed some things that never made it to a garage sale and now never will.

I did google the name of your friend, Dorothy. Tragic all around. I'm so sorry.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 28 Jul 15 - 01:43 PM

i am having to move with a month's notice. not sure where to, but will just rent a room from someone and retire in about a year. move will be simple as i have been living in tiny cabin..came with a bed. i have an ironing board, folding table, office chair, some bins, some bags. Will pack up my tsunami food and give to food bank. Likewise cleaning products and hair etc. to a place where they feed people..they can pass them out. Took bag of shoes, some of which I really liked, to thrift shop. I own almost no books, some cds that i really don't listen to and will sort through..."spare clothing" for funerals, weddings, visits with the pope I'll keep. Some bedding. Will be getting rid of big exercise machine and medium refrigerator, latter to St. Vincent perhaps. I am sorting through old batteries, flashlights, electrical cords...transformers...actually you can sell those on ebay but i will probably donate to thrift store. i figure i am behind on charity so i should just donate stuff directly.

Anyway, a testimonial to moving towards nonclutter and minimalism. They say people clutter for different reasons..some like new shiny things, some sentimental things, some can't resist free stuff..mine is catastrophic..the civil war might return and i will need those old sheets for bandages and i will need an extensive set of tools to build shelters etc...but it is going nevertheless. I have decided when I retire, most likely ina year, I will go on a pilgrimage...probably start in Ireland, go to part of the Campostella and end up on the Mary Magdalene route in France. I would love to be a donkey pilgrim but have no donkey. I think there is a donkey pilgramage to Greece...

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: GUEST, ^*^
Date: 29 Jul 15 - 12:06 AM

More power to you, Mary!

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: ranger1
Date: 29 Jul 15 - 11:15 AM

Finally had enough of sleeping on the floor and made it to the hardware store to buy what I needed to attempt my jury-rig repair of the cheaply constructed futon. Three cheers for the hardware store guys for giving me the sale price for an extremely nice set of drill bits and drivers that went back to original price several weeks ago. I didn't ask, they offered. Discussed my fix-it plan with the owner of the store, and he told me that was how he'd do it, as well. Spent the evening making the repair and then putting the frame back together. Not only have I fixed the futon, but I've decluttered all the parts that were stashed all over the cottage.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: MAG
Date: 29 Jul 15 - 01:17 PM

I once had a snapshot on my desk of a "clear spot on MA's desk," and the date.

so nice to know i am not alone.

been a great week. infected spider bite. loose canine tooth turns out to need the old root canal and crown redone: sticker shock of $2000 -- but can't see not getting it done.
sigh.
now to find $2000 worth of work someone will hire me for.

since i am off all junk food, need to drown my self-pity some other way.

happy warm weather to all.

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Jul 15 - 12:34 AM

Maryanne, maybe Tami will loan you her drill. Do it yourself dentistry. :-)

Subject: RE: 'Clutter's Last Stand' +fitness July thru Sep 2015
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Jul 15 - 10:23 PM

The weekend and August loom. Looking forward to both.