Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Dec 12 - 02:10 PM

Leak in bathtub faucets fixed. New handheld shower unit installed. (Tom started that project several years ago -- I think he was having vision problems at the time but was not telling me about it and probably denying to himself that there was a problem.)

I'm exhausted. Think I'll watch the other DVD my sister sent so I can return it and get a small package out to her ASAP.

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Dec 12 - 11:51 AM

Well, tried the shutoff I thought would work, but it wouldn't turn so I couldn't even check it. Said to hell with it, shut the water heater off and shut off the main valve to the house.

In between I also managed to schlep the ladder up and down the stairs and schlep some lawn chairs and camp stools up to put in the FREE pile (and got them up to the head of the driveway).

Bagged some more cellar trash to go out next Wednesday and identified some other boxes o' crap that need to be hauled out of the cellar.

I AM seeing progress down there. Found some more copper and brass for a future trip to Harding. The next thing I need to do in the cellar is pull nails from all the shelves from the built-in that the guys took out last year when they insulated the cellar. I'm not going to nail them back in, but just getting them in place will GREATLY help in sorting out tools and fasteners, etc. -- what to keep, what to sell, what to give away, and what goes into the metal bucket for Harding.

My repair guy hasn't arrived yet (but we've communicated several times this morning), but I'm physically exhausted. I think I hear his car...

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Dec 12 - 08:08 AM

Our problem is that Tom and I have NOT moved in 33 years. Tom had been living elsewhere for a year or so before we moved in here together. I, too, had jus (several years before) dissolved a marriage, so my belongings were fairly compact. (And most of my books were in storage.) Stuff expands to fit the space available and Tom's too much of a Yankee to throw away things that might prove useful in the future. "Waste not, want not." And he tells me, despite my Midwestern origins, that I was born a Yankee.

So now it's crisis level. Fortunately I've thrown off the chains of wage slavery and have SOME time left around caring for him, but he can no longer help with almost anything.

And EVERYTHING needs doing...cleaning...sorting...culling...

It would be nice to have the luxury of just picking one room and working on it until it's done. Then I could SEE the progress. But life doesn't work that way. I KNOW I've accomplished a lot since June (outside as well), but I can't really look at one spot and say, "Wow. That's done. And doesn't it look great!"

Gotta get away from here and spiffify the bathroom before a friend arrives at 10, bring up the tree stand, make sure the upstairs water shutoff actually works... I'll keep you posted...

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 11:47 PM

If it takes a little more time to do it right, then you'll probably feel better when you finish.

The wind has picked up. It was quite warm today but overnight a cold front is due to arrive. This must be the leading edge. I suspect there will be some picking up around the yard in the morning.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: ranger1
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 09:22 PM

Feeling discouraged that the move is taking longer than expected. Good news is that I have two open boxes of books slated to go to the FCS thrift store and I keep adding to them rather than taking any out. I've also thrown out, recycled, donated, or given away a bunch of the clutter that has been taking up space in the kitchen for several years. Bathroom is next, closet shelves are done, just the shelves next to the sink left. Living room and bedroom are another story, though. This is the first time in over four years that I've missed my truck...

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 09:03 PM

Leftovers here as well, and an early night. I'll get up early and tackle the dishes in the kitchen. I'm trying to take Friday off - there is shopping I'd like to do before the weekend rush.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 06:21 PM

Fact of the matter is, there's no available space anywhere else to put them -- but they not only definitely belong in the bathroom, but, once the leaky faucet is taken care of, they can go right back in the cubby where they belong.

I actually made some minor headway in the guest room this morning. It hasn't actually had space for a guest (unless they don't mind sleeping standing up) for quite some time.

Now that I've actually LOOKED at the plumbing in the cellar and where the shutoffs are, and how it's mapped out...I can't believe Tom actually put it together like that. It's like computer spaghetti code -- it was probably fine originally, but each repair cobbled in or add-on (or removal!) makes it look like a Rube Goldberg contraption.

I made some, ummm, "humorous" comments about it which Tom took the wrong way and got depressed, thinking that this (still unfinished after close to 40 years) home sweet home of ours will probably end up as a tear down. (Which will be a lot of fun because it's a pretty damned solid post-and-beam.)

I wasn't involved in the building of it and there are things I would have done decidedly different had I been involved. But building the house together is probably what split up Tom's first marriage (his ex-wife did all the cabinetry, by the way, and it is beautifully done). And if they hadn't split up, then where would I be?

Winter comfort food (mostly leftovers) for supper tonight -- beef tips in a savory gravy, oven roasted carrots, mashed potatoes and reheated celery root. Tom will probably want to split a beer, but I think I prefer wine.

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 04:34 PM

"stored it temporarily in the guest room" is to put your foot on a very slippery slope, Linn. I hope you know that!

Second major event this week out of the way. Now several minor things coming up. The house hasn't changed a lot in the last couple of days.

On the way home today I must purchase the turkey, and get some dog food (different transactions and uses, obviously!) and prepare to race against the clock over the weekend.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 02:48 PM

Figured I'd HAVE to take a trunk-load of scrap to Harding Metals this morning or I'd have no room for a Christmas tree in the back of the car, which we really wanted to get today. But first I had to investigate and identify the water shutoffs in the cellar in anticipation of having a friend fix the leak in the bathtub faucet tomorrow.

EVERYTHING involves more and takes longer than you think it will.

After bushwhacking to the main water shut off for the house and clearing out the stuff in front of it (that's where the other clamp light was!) and moving around a bunch of other cellar stuff AND finding another length of copper tubing to sell, I came upstairs exhausted, out of breath, sweating and explained to Tom that all I had energy left for was drawing a diagram of the plumbing & shutoffs around the water heater (that seems to be the hub) and cleaning the bathroom.

Tom looked as if I'd just shot his dog (if he had a dog)...he'd really been looking forward to getting out of the house today. So... we went out. The scrap metal is GONE and converted into 33 bucks. Traded 16 of those bucks for a Christmas tree.

Yeah. I feel pretty good that there's two more things to cross off my list. The tarps which had covered the metal are now folded and in the boot of my car. Lunch was made and consumed. Laundry is in. Dishwasher almost totally loaded.

I think I'll take a couple pictures of the Rube Goldberg plumbing arrangement and maybe Tom can see it on the computer screen and remember exactly what he did when he was plumbing it...

I may bring a few more things up from the cellar to take up to the (diminishing) FREE pile at the head of the driveway. It's spitting rain. (At least it's not snowing -- all of Sunday and Monday's snow is gone except for a few dirty remnants.)

Gotta go do stuff or my body's gonna seize up. I can feel the aches already from this morning's exertions. Oh, besides the cellar stuff, I cleared out the stuff in the bathroom cubby (in front of the frozen cold water shutoff) and stored it temporarily in the guestroom. Mostly I've spent the day getting into weird positions and moving stuff. Who needs to pay a gym membership to workout?

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Dec 12 - 11:59 AM

Interesting program on Diane Rehm's second hour today. About shopping addiction. I don't think the de-clutter we're talking about has to do with shopping, it has to do with accumulation of useful stuff or inheritance and the slow deaccession of the collections we find ourselves with. Aspects of what they discuss may apply to the cluttered home.

Diane Rehm show Dec. 19, 2012 second hour.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Dec 12 - 05:38 PM

One big thing off my desk today. Another tomorrow. Scads to do at home. And it is only 7 days till xmas? Where DID the year go . . .

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Dec 12 - 09:40 PM

Hindsight may render Santa a bit more tolerable. :)

I've picked up stuff around the house this evening, but it's time to finish up, do some ironing, then get to sleep early. If I want any time left at the end of the day in daylight I need to get started early.

I have an eBay item to list if I get a chance this evening. Getting back to that routine will help my pocketbook!

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: LilyFestre
Date: 17 Dec 12 - 07:48 PM

I made 5 gallons of turkey vegetable rice soup today, a pork roast in the crock pot with veggies and I made my first attempt at a Red Velvet cake for my husband's birthday. It turned out great with some minor glitches. All the dishes are done and son I am off to clean off the table so it's all pretty for dinner when he gets in on this very rainy, muddy, icky night. I'll be glad when he's home.

Michelle

PS. I did some grocery shopping today too...ran into a friend who asked Jeremiah about his train ride with Santa. He wrinkled his nose and announced he didn't like Santa. We talked about how Santa gave him a little gift (a bell to hang on the Christmas tree) and he was all smiles. My friend said, "So he's not so bad after all?" Jeremiah thought for a minute and said, "He's a good man!" LOL He cracks me up. I hear so much of US in him!!!

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 11:07 PM

What an image - snoring in the tub! I've nodded off in the hot water, but if you wake when it cools, that's no fun.

The mantel is cleared of all of the crystal, is dusted, and now is ready for this year's holiday decorations. I've been so slow to get to this in place, but I have that dresser-to-buffet project going in there near the door (next to the fireplace) blocking access. I've packed up some of the saws and clamps and such and am a little closer to finishing.

After the last post I took the dogs for walks - first one dog and then the other two. I get better results because the first dog pulls and is in competition with the others and I've gotten tired of it. One-on-one she walks the way she is supposed to. I walked dogs for almost an hour this evening.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: LilyFestre
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 11:00 PM

Three loads of laundry washed and hung, dishes done, turkey carcass picked over and soup made, fun ride on the Christmas train with Pete and Jeremiah. It's been a lovely day!

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 08:36 PM

Almost to the end of the physical move part of R's crisis, we went to the wonderful concert in Huntingdon this afternoon, then came to the cabin due to freezing rain - a great excuse not to go back to the city. Now I hear him snoring in the bathtub! Guess I better go move the clutter from the bathtub to the bed!

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 06:00 PM

One parking lot ydy and back. One tdy and back by a longer route (paved). With walker as a portable chair (not support).

~S~

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 05:06 PM

Took my ex to the airport this morning and that put me on the side of town for the clearance center for a nice department store so I stopped in - my goal was a couple of good blouses, which I found. Also found a gorgeous light cotton and linen Ralph Lauren unlined jacket, from $189 down to $20. It's a season back, but the price is that low because the little packet of extra buttons is missing. I imagine that with the difference if I lose a button I could afford to buy new buttons and replace them all if I can't match one.

I'm going to set up the "work clothes" part of the closet with everything hanging there to choose from, no more of this poking through the knit tops - I'm going to make sure it all goes together and put it together and choose from what is there. That is the plan, at any rate.

Some of the pants from the thrift store are in great condition, but the legs are too wide. I'm going to take out the hems and reshape a couple of pair. Since Moonglow is a great seamstress now with her theater costume design work, I'll run the idea past her, see if she has any tips. Isn't it nice when the kids start being the expert in things? ;-)

I have a bag for t-shirts that are going back to the thrift store circuit. Only a few in it now, but I need to be ruthless and weed out a bunch more.

The kitchen is starting to look good, but the afternoon is so nice right now that clearing up can wait - I need to take those dogs for a great walk. There's nothing like the dressing room mirror to inspire more exercise!

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: MAG
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 03:54 PM

Made gingerbread cookies for today's potluck --

feels good to get out those cutters; haven't used them for 20 years

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: MAG
Date: 16 Dec 12 - 01:57 AM

still sugar hangover from last weekend -- and I know better --

tell me to be good tomorrow

losing pounds but not inches

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: ranger1
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 08:40 PM

Culled about a quarter of my books for the move. That was painful. New futon delivered to my new space today. Double bed frame will be going into storage, as the cottage is too small for it. Antique bedroom set in storage out of state given to my sister, so I can stop renting the unit there and maybe rent a smaller one closer to home. I must say,moving is an excellent way to declutter!

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 08:13 PM

Pushing this back up to the top. I walked the dogs in two separate batches this evening so I am well-exercised. More laundry done, I had a small dinner, and this evening I need to start clearing out the living room clutter.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 10:58 AM

Towels and sheets changed out, laundry in, shopping list in hand, headed out the door. At least I don't have as much laundry as Liz, who has to wash some blood out (see facebook - all is well now, except he has a headache).

It rained yesterday and again overnight - so very welcome! Now, how to drive to a place that is on a busy street and NOT go past the mall.

Shopping out of the way, some of it of the gift sort, some of it for the renovated work wardrobe, including shoes. Back at home I threw out two pairs of shoes that are worn out and will donate a couple of others that I never wear. Thrift store had some lovely slacks that will add variety. I tend to always buy black.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 11:35 PM

Tons to do this weekend. No point in listing it all, but I'll report if I manage any large hurdles in the clutter around the house. I've filed papers this evening and cleared the kitchen table. Tossed a bunch of moldy peppers into the compost. :-( Didn't have time to cut them up.

We had rain today, after several dry weeks. It was very welcome, and there is still a chance for tomorrow, so plans will vary according to the weather.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 03:35 PM

Dress code being formulated at work. I have been upgrading slowly (have discussed it before) but now it is official - soon there will be a list of what we should and shouldn't wear, so I'll go ahead and finish filling in a wardrobe with enough "casual academic" garments to fill the bill.

It probably also means I'll get rid of a lot of stuff. I've been meaning to anyway, and the closet will look better. I have been moving sweaters to a new hanging storage system but haven't addressed some things yet that need to be moved or moved out. Looking forward to a more usable closet!

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: wysiwyg
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 05:58 PM

A current OT/discharge goal is standing time in the shower-- at least 15 minutes without sitting.

Yesterday's top: 3 minutes
Today's: 4 minutes

~S~

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 05:01 PM

Well...I actually found frozen "stir fry vegetables"...alas, they didn't include water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, mini corn, or anything else that one would expect in Chinese stir-fry vegetables. The only vegetables included were those I normally have on hand frozen or prefer to buy fresh. And NONE of the fancy grocery stores had any canned oriental products other than LaChoy. Sigh.

I DID get the Medaglia d'Oro instant espresso. And one of the stores even had an optional brand. No hunter's sauce or sauce chasseur or demi-glace (even the expensive concentrated "gourmet" brands). And, while a couple had a reasonable decent selection of Knorr products, none had the bouillabaise base, either.

Oh, well. I got the instant espresso.

We'll make the hunter sauce -- got plenty of my really rich chicken stock in the freezer to use as a base.

But, boy, am I glad to be home!

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: LilyFestre
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 01:43 PM

Interesting how our interiors and exteriors of both homes and persons can change but the initial core sense of being remains the same. For some this is beneficial...for others, not so much.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 12:33 PM

It doesn't LOOK like I did anything, but I got some papers (already in page protectors or, if not, put them in) sorted into years in the file box. They all came out of the same box, so it doesn't clear another pile on the floor or anything, but, trust me, it was major.

Some of the information uncovered I can now use to update yearly files stored here in the computer. And most of THOSE pieces of paper can then be thrown away.

Gave Tom a sponge bath, made lunch, trimmed and cleaned his hair, and trimmed his beard.

Now I've got about a half hour to update some historical files here at the computer before I have to take Tom to Portsmouth to have his defibrillator read.

While in Portsmouth, there are three "fancy" grocery stores where I can check for Knorr's or McCormick's Hunter Sauce mix (for Christmas dinner) and Medaglia d'Oro instant espresso (Christmas present to ourselves -- not so much to drink as to use in stuff). Oh, and decent canned or frozen stir fry veggie mix. I HATE LaChoy's...

Then, alas, I can clean up the kitchen and start loading the dishwasher. I just got it unloaded this morning. Never done...

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 09:31 AM

The dog heater is set up on the heat sensor in the garage, so this winter I don't need to worry about the heater being on when the day warms up or nights when it isn't needed.

Clearing paper lately - must spend the evening filing and/or shredding.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Dec 12 - 03:08 PM

Got an important package in the mail today. Decluttered something from my "to do" list.

Out in the greenhouse I'd forgotten to put the pieces of plywood over the vent holes so my big basil in the pot froze, but there are lots of seedlings in that same that are still happy in the pot. Now the boards are in place and the plug is set up (I put the two-outlet plug in the greenhouse and I plugged the heater and the string of overhead LED lights, so I can see the lights on in the evening when the heat is on. It's very pretty!)

This afternoon I'll figure out how I want to set up heat for the dogs. They spent that last couple of nights inside, but this isn't how we'll do it all of the time, it was kind of an "occasion," with our first really hard freezes.

It's sunny and warm this afternoon. Typical Texas.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: LilyFestre
Date: 12 Dec 12 - 10:52 AM

I've been working in our kitchen quite a bit. It seems that it never really left CANNING mode from this summer. I put away extra tables that initially had been set up to hold all the jars of food while they cooled and then turned into the I'll put that away later table. It sure is good to have that all picked up and put away!

Today I am making a turkey...we stocked up a little bit while they were on sale so that we could have turkey once a month or so. :) We never stuff our turkey so it's really not too much extra work and we get SO many meals out of it.....and bonus, I can make my turkey soup!!! YAY.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Dec 12 - 08:50 AM

Each appliance has made a major contribution towards cutting the electric bill. And switching to compact fluorescents from incandescent bulbs has also made a noticeable difference.

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: katlaughing
Date: 11 Dec 12 - 08:17 PM

We just found out our new hot water heater has been saving us about $40 per month on utility bills!

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Dec 12 - 07:13 PM

Last year, thanks to a very generous friend, we were able to replace the dishwasher that died about eight years ago or so (maybe longer -- it was before the year where the refrigerator died in February, the clothes washer in April, the hot water heater in July and then we had to put a new roof on the house in December).

We bought the least expensive Kenmore from Sears. According to Consumer Reports, it was better in every way than the more expensive machines by other manufacturers (and, for the money, better than the more expensive Kenmores).

And we have been exceptionally pleased with it right from the get-go. Energy efficient, cleans exceptionally well, is designed well, and I just can't believe how QUIET it is.

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: MAG
Date: 11 Dec 12 - 04:43 PM

sitting here feeling grumpy 'cause I'm waiting on the Maytag repairman.

machine has never performed as advertised, and I finally got someone to concede I'm right, and then went through another menu to get a repairman out, blocking out the entire afternoon.

Now there will be another fight if they do not want to honor the 10 year warranty on parts.

and hoping the repairman will document that a part has never worked.


grr.

have a sugar hangover since Sunday; a reminder I really can't eat the stuff for so many reasons.

at least I'm getting more indoor chores done.

MA

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Dec 12 - 10:41 AM

Yesterday I plugged in the yellow Easy Heat cube. Last night I looked out the back door and through the greenhouse window could see the glow of the cube letting me know the heater was on. Just the way it's supposed to work. It got down to the teens last night. What a turnaround - we were in the 80s last week. I haven't set up the garage heater yet so the dogs stayed in. (They love it - but they are outside dogs and a generally acclimated to the weather.)

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 10 Dec 12 - 08:39 PM

THANK YOU, SRS! I will take a good look, with R, to see if I can triage stuff or just have to keep the whole space above freezing. R uses heat wires in a building, just on water pipes but no gadget to turn them off when not needed. These look very useful.

Huge batch of veggie chili made and now need to make space in freezer and frig!

Rearranged some of the K today for more counter space. Roasted some sunflower seeds for healthier snacking. Washed bed clothes; will put them back on shortly. Bottom sheet was dead so will make non-paper towels out of it. Handy for small clean ups and washable; saves on paper towels.

Snow/rain/mess today. Better part of valor - stay home! Again frivoled too much of the afternoon on the internet - pottery, animal concerns and a bit of other.

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Dec 12 - 07:15 PM

Glorious batch of chicken stock in the freezer in 2-cup bags. The rest is strained and in the fridge -- I'll deal with it tomorrow (including freezing it as cubes).

Got errands done this afternoon and came home and actually was able to goof off for about an hour (reading).

Came downstairs and reheated yesterday's fried rice for supper (after adding some more water chestnuts).

Did some piddly computer "housekeeping" and I think now it's time for cake...

G'night! Was a pretty productive day even if I didn't get the books reshelved in the bedroom bookcase.

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Dec 12 - 02:06 PM

Feeling a bit stretched already today...

Thanks to the weather (overcast, drippy), I actually slept until 7:45 this morning. Got up and did early morning stuff -- get Tom his coffee, email, contests, check here and Facebook... Took a cup of tea upstairs to read my way into the day (and probably pet a cat or two). Body wanted to stay put but my brain was all over the place, so started putting ephemera already page protected and sorted by year into my binders. And pulled everything out of the cubby in the bathroom (piled the plastic drawers temporarily onto the shower stool in the tub) and checked the cold water shutoff -- it's still frozen. Sprayed more WD-40 on it. Shutting off the water to the house is the option for when a friend can fix the drizzle in the tub faucet.) By then it was going on noon and I figured I'd better actually get dressed and do some of the stuff on my list.

Retrieved from the deck the shelf braces that a friend cut and dropped off for me yesterday while I was out. As soon as I get them installed, I can get all the multiple piles of books in the bedroom off the floor and reshelved. (Which will give me enough maneuvering space on the floor to find places for the rest of the clutter and make the bedroom safe for Tom to walk into.)

Meanwhile I got a chicken carcass, a bunch of veggies, etc. into a pot and started brewing stock (for the freezer), troubleshooted a website vs. computer problem for a friend, made lunch, got the dishes out of the dishwasher and more put in, got a few more Christmas cards ready to mail, and shooed the cat (Rufus, who else) off the windowsill (where there is absolutely NO room for him at all) about 37 times, put some stuff away...I dunno. Feel as if I've done more. Oh, getting the seeds out of two pomegranates without getting juice on the table, anything ON the table or me.

Yes, I took my St. John's wort...

Now to call my friend and tell him it's his computer, not the website (and find out if, perhaps, it might be better to visit his wife tomorrow when I'm not quite as...whatever it is I'm feeling).

Oh, it's only two o'clock...

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Dec 12 - 10:14 AM

Even if it was different I hope a good therapeutic day nonetheless, Linn!

The kitchen was a lovely sight this morning, and out the window I was greeted by a little extra white. It froze last night and there were a few flurries to leave a little snow on leaves and surfaces above ground level.

I roasted the last three big eggplants and mashed and froze them. Lots of baba ghannouj this winter and next spring! I cut up some green bell peppers and thought a couple of the red ones were red bells, but they were something hot and my fingers smarted for a while because I wasn't wearing gloves when I cut them. I didn't get all of the peppers cut before some started to mold (darn! I hate it when that happens!) so there is more to go in the compost today.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Dec 12 - 09:16 AM

I'm not sure I did anything constructive yesterday except strip a chicken carcass and prep to make stock today. Oh, I did file a couple things in the morning and make a lovely breakfast for Tom.

Then I ran away from home for a couple hours. Went to the Nottingham Winter Farmers' Market where some friends were playing and did a couple songs with them.

Then I went to a new Irish pub in Dover where a couple other friends have just started a "session" -- sort of an odd session. More like they are the featured musicians, a couple "regular" instrumentalists on the stage, microphones and all for the singers. I was "called up" several times to sing and then the featured performers (with whom I've sung for years) instead of joining me on choruses and accompaniment (which they knew and which they'd promised to do) wandered over to the bar to, I think, eat. Just...odd. Not what I think of as a session. Definitely not like the Press Room sessions.

It was also very strange for me to be performing without Tom.

Linn

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Dec 12 - 10:23 PM

Dorothy,

I agree, they are a very clever idea. I have one for the garage and one for the greenhouse. Here are the two I picked up to try out:

Farm INnovators Thermo Cube Thermostatically Controlled Outlet

Easy Heat EH-38 Freeze Thermostatically Controlled Valve and Pipe Heating System. They have a whole bunch of related products, I just got the plug.

Since I have a lot to do before the holiday I figured I'd better start out by taming the kitchen. I scrubbed the corner of the counter where my compost bowl sits (got the bits off the back splash) and cleared out things in the fridge that are too old. It's all in the compost with the usual upper layer of dog droppings policed from the back yard. Once the kitchen is looking good I'll just force myself to keep it that way and work my way into the rest of the house. Since the sink is clear, for example, I can now take the various pieces of crystal off of the mantle and wash each before putting them back in the china cupboard. I'll figure out what I want the holiday decor to look like once it is completely clear. And then there are all of the cardboard boxes in the sun room . . . lots to do around here, but with the pressure on, that makes it easier to get motivated.

Got two dog walks today and I'm back to larger meals in the morning and midday, small in the evening. Despite a season filled with calories, now that I can't eat chocolate I may actually be able to lose some weight this season. That is definitely a mixed blessing!

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 09 Dec 12 - 09:13 PM

SRS! that plug sounds magical! I'll have to ask R about one for the studio. That would be fantastic.

We may get snow tonight. Snow tires are not mandatory until 15 December which is pretty silly as we often have snow before then. I did mine two weeks ago or so, just to be safe.

Never got those Christmas decorations made. Today was last craft show I'm doing this year. Sold enough to be worthwhile and it was a rather fun day. Drove down to the country from Montreal; after the show I stopped by the cabin to put out food for the animals, check the temp in the studio, drop off stuff that belongs there.

Back to city and had a nice supper with R. Crisis is gradually getting resolved He worked all weekend and hopes to be finished moving stuff by end of week. Then the legal issues .... could take months or years....

A trip away would be nice, she says wistfully.

I got some very cheap lights and three, not as cheap, grow light bulbs, for the plants. A great improvement!! And a nice cushion for this wooden platform rocker - also an improvement!



Need to focus on making new glazes and small test pots and planning instead of just playing around. Today someone wanted a sugar bowl to match... Someone else broke the lid to the butter dish they bought in the summer... I need to be more meticulous about sizing things so lids and bottoms fit interchangeably. Currently have a number of bottoms and a whole bunch of tops, for butter dishes! Some day I hope I get some to fit each other!

So, tomorrow is the day I -again - hope to have the energy to make more pots. After I make more chili - after I go to the store for more onions and bell peppers! If it snows, I will do without the latter. I do not clutter my life with trying to deal with driving in snow if it is not essential. Too many people out there who don't know how.

It just occurred to me that one of those hospital tables - adjustable height that fit over a bed - would be useful so I could work on computer or read while using the exer-cycle. Watching TV is not enough because I currently read during commercials and/or use the computer throughout most of the programming.

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Dec 12 - 05:39 PM

A friend called and it looks like the big holiday get-together of our families is at my house this year. Great motivation for clearing up around here!

Winter is arriving this evening, according to the weather folks. I walked the dogs (two walks - I've decided that they all way better if I take the catahoula on her own and the other two together. The catahoula pulls because she's always in competition with the other dogs, but one-on-one with a person she's perfect.) I may walk one morning, the other two evening, etc, to spread it out - and it's good for me to get the extra exercise.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Dec 12 - 11:05 AM

I sometimes forget who is who, even though I see the names regularly. I think I have notes - MAG are you still in the same town in the same state as a few years ago when I sent you a t-shirt? And are you on facebook? (I probably ask that every few months - sorry!)

Paperwork today, but I do need to pull out some lights and set up one tree in the front yard as my token contribution to neighborhood lights. It's supposed to get cold overnight, so I also need to set up the heater in the greenhouse. The system I use is to have a plug with an internal switch that only opens the circuit if the temperature gets below 40 degrees. (These are made primarily for well houses to keep the well from freezing, but are also good for greenhouses.) I have an oil radiator out there that will be plugged into that sensor plug and will keep the seedlings and basil warm enough to thrive on the few cold days we have this winter.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: MAG
Date: 09 Dec 12 - 06:31 AM

took me all morning to get my kitchen clean and organized to the point where I could make a somewhat elaborate dish for a potluck --

another one on Sunday needing the same dishes, so I HAVE to do them first thing.

small but very well laid out kitchen -- after 20 yrs w/ a galley kitchen, it's bliss.

made it to the gym once this past week; shoulders hurt like hell and I didn't even do anything shoulder heavy.   sigh. a couple more pounds off -- but,after that potluck, who can say??

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 08 Dec 12 - 03:06 PM

As we reach towards the shortest day, THIS LR NEEDS MORE LIGHT! No sun today so it has been DARK ALL DAY. I bought some more plants yesterday but I can barely see them. I wanted to buy an LED rope yesterday but they are all made in China.

Right now, I am going to the Sally Ann to see what they have in lights.

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Dec 12 - 02:15 PM

I picked up Susie this morning and we drove down to a nut vending company (called Nut Vending, of all things!) to get materials for her gingerbread houses. I picked up a few things for the house and gifts. My house hasn't gotten any neater in the last few days.

I need to apply myself to cleaning the house this evening. I won't be distracted by my favorite PBS programs because we're in a pledge period.

SRS

Subject: RE: Declutter & Exercise )()( December 2012
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Dec 12 - 02:16 PM

291.

This is W-Y-S-I-W-Y-G