Patty, that Freeze Miser device I linked to is one way to avoid the frozen pipes - when the water temperature reaches ~37 it releases a small amount to keep water moving in the pipes (once in place the water must be turned on). There are also Thermo Cube electric plugs that detect the temperature and I use one of those in the greenhouse (except I gave my extra oil radiator heater to my daughter last year for her pump house). Plug in the heater and turn it on; only when the air reaches something in the high-30s does the plug power the heater.

But like you, I'm preparing for several days of very cold weather. This morning I have floor mats and the cover of a dog bed in the wash, and will build a cocoon enclosure for Cookie, who doesn't have Zeke to sleep on this winter. That old lab really put out the heat! Pepper has never let her cuddle, so in lieu of that (and she's not going to sleep on my bed!) I'm thinking zip ties and a couple of things set up on two sides of the kennel will work. She also has a little jacket but getting her into it is a colossal struggle.

Going shopping for a few basics and some pecan halves to make the Crispy Pecans my friend shared a week ago - without being careful, those are one way I could find myself gaining weight! I'll vacuum seal them in small jars. I've realized his recipe uses a Worcestershire sauce substitute with coconut aminos (it didn't bother me but I avoid it when I can). Regular Lea & Perrins is made with HF corn syrup, and others don't have the anchovy that adds great flavor. After a search I've found one that I can pick up locally (Bear & Burton's W Sauce).

I'll drop office paper and junk mail at the recycling bins, though I've put a bunch of old holiday cards into a paper bag for a pyre in the burn barrel. They need a more dignified departure. I need to revisit some of them first, sent by now-deceased loved ones. I'll keep a few choice letters from them, but I must keep thinning out the paper around here.