De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 26 Apr 20 - 09:25 PM

All well here in Stratford. It’s still a bit cold and wet, but looking up.

We put the porch chairs out on Saturday and had a cocktail outside for the first time this year, along with a natter with Jane across the street who was sunning herself on her driveway. We’re all starved for conversation, but following The Rules.

I’m really impressed with our neighbours. Everybody is trying really hard to do the right thing, and the low rate of reported infection in Perth County shows it’s working.

Himself is writing a “case comment” — that’s a short paper lawyers write about current issues — and learning how to do Zoom conferencing. Me, I’m still struggling through the war in Afghanistan. We’re both sincerely grateful to have useful work to do and comfortable quarters in which to do it.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 26 Apr 20 - 02:33 PM

Dupont:

The fear of fetching groceries got me way down. So, Sat am at 6:30 R and I set out for the produce store after a mostly sleepless night. He stayed in the car and I was the second customer shopping! Forgot a couple things but managed a large order of staple fruits and veggies, loaded into boxes (they no longer allow reusables) which they helped me load onto the cart and I took it outside and got R to bring car around and load it. WOW! What a relief! R went back to bed!

I finally got the growing pile of dishes washed. And cleaned the first floor. Thought I did the second also but missed a lot. Maybe today. R's B-day yesterday and, with the weight lifted, I cooked him a nice meal and pulled a very special frozen cake out for desert.

Spent an incredible amount of time over the last few days trying to order food on line. The one store's mode entailed hours of searching. I almost had an order ready but decided to try a dif store; much easier to navigate and I can pick it up on Tuesday - they put it in the car and no charge! Three desired items that I know they carry were not on line... I shall suffer without my fav cookies. But we found a couple interesting items - pumpkin seed butter and pumpkin crackers!

I feel so much lighter believing food is forthcoming without risk. We are enjoying our feathered and furry neighbours - a flicker this morning! R has placed binoculars by the back door so we can observe through that window without disturbing them.

My project of clearing the grass from around the stones on what is turning out to be a lovely path, proceeds as the back permits. Then the robins feed on what surfaced! Crocuses are blooming and the new front garden is being a delight - of expectation. Most of last fall's purchases are coming up anew; I talk to them and encourage!

The wood fire keeps us warm. And the weather is improving...slowly. R has been cheered by moving forward on a few of his business affairs; there was a month of feeling nothing would ever happen but a few machines have been sold and transported! And some small chores being accomplished around the house. I have requested clearing junk from along the garage wall to be ready for the clematis I found there last summer!

A drive down along the river a few days ago lifted our spirits as we saw hundreds of Canada Geese enjoying the sun and two each of Great Blue Herons and lovely white egrets - prob the same two we saw in that spot last year. I consider those thousands in this time who do not have these advantages. A friend in NS posted an article on why people snap - a pro pos of the poor man who killed 22 people in NS last week. That event plus the Covid and the grocery problem and my friend who lost his adult son - I do understand that people can and will snap. It gives more meaning to "Stay safe".

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Apr 20 - 11:33 AM

The refrigerator fan (between the freezer and the cooler) that keeps the non-frozen food cool has died. It happened before, maybe a dozen years ago, so I recognize the signs. I've turned it into an "ice box" with lots of containers of ice (some manufactured for the occasion in the new big freezer) and this morning it's at a "normal" fridge temperature, but nothing is in there now much that I'm using. I crammed most of the fridge stuff into a small bar fridge which is now probably freezing a lot of the contents.

Monday afternoon the Sears repair guy will appear. I filled out the form online saying I haven't been around COVID-19 and I'm feeling good, but then I need to let a stranger into the house to work on the fridge. [sigh]

The fridge is 18 years old, and it might be more prudent to replace it, but THAT is a nightmare in this day and age and delivery is only to the door and would take weeks. And the repair should cost less than a new fridge, but you never know. If I decline the repair it will cost me the $99 service call.

Still making masks; it goes faster now that I've put my mother's previously purchased but never used good rotary cutter to use, and that the process of making bias tape is completely understood and goes pretty quickly. I can make enough now for about four masks at a time. I distributed a bunch of masks this week and now have a few more. I'll poke around and see who in the neighborhood needs them.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Apr 20 - 11:03 AM

I buy my dogs' heartworm medicine from the UK because it costs about 1/3 as much as if I buy it from the local vet. I still go to the vet for other stuff, but it's expensive. So now my UK supplier isn't taking orders because they can't guarantee delivery—there aren't enough flights to take the mail. The vet is holding my toes to the fire; since the dogs were in and had their heartworm tests a few months ago they haven't had medication from the clinic so I have to get them tested again before they'll sell me the very expensive medication. $$$ It used to be that if you had a continuous monthly dose and the dog came down with heartworm they would treat the dog for heartworm (free). I haven't gone with that plan for years because I have used a different method (slow-kill) of treating heartworm and because I save so much buying overseas. But they go with the fiction that we're still doing the monthly treatment with them. Oh, well. I'm stuck now.

A care package is ready to go in the mail, and masks are ready to be delivered. I have a sewing operation going in my den and I think that's the next room that gets the super cleaning treatment. I'm enjoying my dust- and clutter-free bedroom from the last concerted cleaning effort. I have to take two of the dogs for heartworm tests this morning. My plate is full.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 21 Apr 20 - 04:23 PM

Dupont:

Mostly all I want to do is go back to bed -- but I don't. Two afternoon TV programs, then the 6pm news, TV if anything suits - rarely! 10 or 11 pm news and late to bed. Might feel like getting up by 9, sometimes 8. Depends largely on R; he sometime stays in bed longer and I make BF and eat, saving his until... He is overwhelmed by things that came to a screeching halt and then, when something needs to be done, he might do it or have a panic attack. Up and down like a yo-yo. This am I could not get moving so, seeing no BF forthcoming, he cooked a decent one for both of us.

The murders in Nova Scotia flattened me - like being run over by a Mac truck. There were only 9 Covid deaths---then 20 people murdered. This does not happen in NS, nor even in Canada. Stan Rogers music has been in mind.

Then he moved in a bunch of stuff he picked up at the, still unsold, Montreal house yesterday. This am, after trying for the 2nd or 3rd time to encourage the heat to re-start, he was putting stuff somewhere. I care but do not have the energy to look. He seemed happy; that is a plus! I did a load of laundry and watched my two programs, then, when I thought it was clearing, it started snowing!

I do have an outdoor project. Too early to plant anything but I take a walk around each morning to see what plants are progressing. Then spend 10-15 minutes a couple times a day, recovering what was once a nice stone pathway from backdoor to garage. A funny old, pointy at two ends and the edge, hoe, picks at the grass in between and on top - just shy of archeology! WOW! wider than I thought! Then the birds get the worms! I do it until back protests. Then back to FB and conversations there until I feel I can go at it again. (GEEZ!!! Now the sun is out!) The project is rewarding as it looks so much nicer!

Bit by bit, I am forming a comprehensive grocery list - for soon. I cannot do that again - go to stores! And R is not volunteering either. He is very careful not to get near any dubious place or person.

Not coping.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Apr 20 - 11:14 AM

A friend in NYC perhaps thought he was doing me a favor by telling a friend of his about my making masks - but he needs to be doing it himself. I don't work very fast with the other things I'm doing around here during the day (I still have a job that I have always done from home). Two or three a day is typical. So I'll determine if he has a stash to work with and figure out how to get more 100% cotton to him and get him started sewing. Amazon sells fabric though I don't know how fast they are these days. Most orders of other things seem to come within a week.

I have a growing list of people I'm mailing them to; my sister, a former co-worker, a fellow-Mudcatter I've been in touch with, and a couple of friends in the next town over. There will be more who need them but as I identify them I'll figure out if I can deliver to door step or send through mail.

Today is baking and mowing, then sewing. On the restoring older machine front, I've set up the newest of the old White machines and determined that the motor is sound and runs very nicely and I think the replacement presser foot is set to arrive tomorrow. I have several cans of sewing machine oil and need to go over all of them while I'm thinking of it. I'm doing this a few minutes at a time; as interesting as the project is I do have other things to do during the day.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 20 Apr 20 - 09:02 PM

Today I dropped some refundable booze bottles with a nice guy from church and damn near talked his ears off. When this is over, we’ll all have a massive pent-up demand for the company of people who don’t live with us 24/7.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Donuel
Date: 20 Apr 20 - 07:28 PM

Maybe I could mount new tires at the dealership tommorrow but it seems like a risk since getting the winter tires in the backseat is quite a manuver if the guys are infected.

I washed the car and filled the spa with new water today.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Apr 20 - 04:55 PM

Today in the front yard I discovered a blooming poppy that I'm pretty certain came from a packet of seeds sent several years ago by a British Secret Santa. MyGuruAlwaysSaid or Sarah the Flute, I think. One part was showing a lopped off part so it must have been sprouting first time I went over the area with the mower; now I'll weed around it and let it drop a few seeds in the spot.

My vehicle inspection for the year was today; the dealer isn't doing a great job of keeping unmasked shop guys away from customers, and they drive the vehicles so are in your personal space long enough to possibly pass along virus. I wore a mask once I entered their driveway and since the only social distancing was the seating in the waiting room I left my mask on during my drive home and washed and sanitized when I got to the house.

I transplanted some plants today and am packing up a couple of face masks I made to take, with the plants, to a friend. We'll sit on opposite ends of her front porch and visit. I have to make similar deliveries to a couple of other friends later this week.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: mg
Date: 20 Apr 20 - 03:23 PM

i hope that as they ease up here and there that shops will be able to do drive by pickup. It seems there would be far less contamination risk from paint or fabric than from food from restaurants. I want things to be phased in as safe, but i think letting people get household goods is very important, especially now that many have time for projects and the weather is very good in general. What I want to see is dutch doors in many businesses...keep people out, let in fresh air, which is oh so important. Perhaps only cashless transactions for now.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 20 Apr 20 - 09:46 AM

I'm waiting for the daytime high to struggle above 15 degrees Celsius before getting out the sponge and squeegee to tackle the windows. As you say, Donuel, I'm looking through them so much more attentively these days. After a winter's worth of drizzle, the patio doors are so grubby I could barely make out last night's rabbit on the lawn for his evening nibble.

Today, I have sworn off work because the sun is shining and I haven't been out the door in more than a week. Himself grumbled that the kitchen floor is filthy again; well, he can damn well wash it if it bothers him that much. He has taken to doing the dishes after breakfast, too. And wiping down the stove.

Strange.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Donuel
Date: 20 Apr 20 - 07:01 AM

Since I'm looking through them more lately I washed the downstairs windows yesterday inside and out includimg the inside louvered shutters. Mowed the big lawn. Today I start sorting presorted bins for phase 2 decluttering.

I'm making a bold bouquet of Lilacs and Azalea for the front bay window.

Due to climate change the blueberry bushes and pear tree have no pollinators yet.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Apr 20 - 02:46 PM

I mailed three boxes of the sturdy vinyl gloves (100/box) to Michelle yesterday. The restaurant supply place also has the paper-thin type (500/box) but those are also skimpy and don't seem quite up to the job. They limit it to 3 boxes per customer at $3.90 a box, the usual price. The limit came when they realized a guy who bought a couple of cases then stood at the freeway off-ramp outside their building and sold them to passers-by for $20 a box. They aren't gouging, and they're a family-run business and he said they're doing everything they can to protect their employees, who are like family. PM if you need me to send you boxes.

I also mailed two 3/4 sized masks to my hairdresser, who has a 3-year-old daughter. I heard from them this morning, tiny Valerie is very happy with the masks that fit (the adult ones they tried to put on her were met with revulsion). Of course, now she wants to go to the store with mama to pick up groceries. They'll have to find outdoors places she can go and wear her mask that don't put her in the store with other people.

These are tough times, you can't just go to Michaels and buy what you need for sewing. I did get lucky with my small rotary cutter when I found spare blades for it, plus an unopened Olfa cutter in my Mom's stash. Earlier I described going through some of Mom's fabric my sister mailed to me years ago, this dive through the bins produced the even more helpful sharp objects. I've ordered spare blades for the larger cutter and they should arrive in early May, though Amazon does seem to be faster than the current listings suggest.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Apr 20 - 11:56 AM

Charmion,

I spoke with a friend the other day about the same thing - it seems that as retirees from robust businesses or government entities, pensioners are going to the be the most stable part of the population for a while. Not the highest paid, but able to withstand what comes. I do think my spending is going to change considerably, trying to support my small local businesses.

This morning the mail carrier delivered my replacement bobbin while I was out pulling weeds and we spoke for a minute; he said he'd used the hand washing station on the porch after a "handoff" on the route - I told him that it's there to be used so if he needs to wash his hands he's welcome to swing by at any point when he's in the neighborhood.

I'm making masks for friends and family still - it's going faster with each one as I figure out a routine. The bias tape is the slowest part. Too bad Virginia Tam is so far away - she finds making bias tape a restful task, a way to keep her hands busy, and has amassed quite an output from over the last couple of weeks (as seen on Facebook). I've never made so much bias tape in my life.

I mentioned ordering tote bags from my seamstress friend in Hawaii. I held onto the package until an online chat with my daughter and opened it (one is a gift for her) - they are magnificent. Gorgeous fabric, and very sturdily made. My friend lines them with the clear plastic or vinyl that I have typically used for table covers and window coverings. Hard to sew on that but the bags are durable this way.

The new bobbin is here; time to see if it fits, then get out the screwdrivers, the machine oil, and some rags to use for cleaning up the old machine and see if it works. If it does and it takes the old White attachments, my bias tape problem just reduced by half (I won't have to iron each piece in two or three passes).

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 16 Apr 20 - 09:37 AM

Himself is washing the kitchen floor. He could not stand it one more minute.

Now, this is a man who, for more than 20 years, has maintained a level of blindness to muddle and mess that I could only marvel at. So colour me impressed at what boredom will do. He has also finished and submitted a massive scholarly paper on military law (conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline), and he's working on a case for Innocence Canada that just might be a wrongful conviction.

I'm polishing off another chapter of the Afghanistan book for submission, and considering a nice long walk as the sun is shining today. Also, laundry -- running out of socks. And thinking up something different to do for supper with the leftovers from Easter -- cold roast lamb. Yesterday I served grits for the first time in more than fifty years of cookery; kinda like polenta, but coarser.

As we head into our second month of "social distance", I spend a little time each day assessing our situation. We have two government pensions and my editing job, so money is not a problem. Our house is comfortable and well-organized for two desk-jockeys to work at home. It is also stuffed with books and electronic gadgets for when work palls. The cats are always ready to help us sit around and read. We like each other's company. Food and household supplies are available in plenty at reasonable prices. We believe that the bureaucrats and politicians of the various levels of government that affect us most closely are doing their duty to the best of their ability.

We are not angry or scared. We are blessed.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 20 - 10:08 PM

Yard work this afternoon, house work this evening. I've moved a couple of televisions around the house (one was finally put back in the craft room for when I can work in there again) and upgraded the setup in my office. I had a "free" Amazon Fire stick for paying for the first two months of Sling TV, and that is in the front room. As soon as I set it up I realized it was light years ahead of the little old Fire stick working in my office. So I ordered another and that is now in my office. The old one is fine in the craft room.

This afternoon I did some research for a friend with a small business that is in danger of going out of business because the landlord insists on the rent, no giving a break because of the shut down. However, the county isn't processing eviction notices now and when they begin there will be so many that I think (hope!) things will be able to sort themselves out.

My routine has settled on various things during the day and sewing in the evening. I'm about to turn to that now for a couple of hours.

I am going to share something here that Lilyfestre posted on her Facebook page. If you're not friends on FB, it's easy enough to contact her through here. This assistance can include homemade face masks.

Calling on all friends and family...

As an essential employee, our office is still open providing mental health services (individual psychotherapy), medication management, injections, health monitoring, case management, home health care, and crisis services. Some services are offered via telehealth, while others must be offered face to face (for various reasons). Our agency (along with many other agencies) are in desperate need of the below listed items to keep our staff and the clients we support safe/reduce risk of COVID. We have been trying very hard to purchase these items but have not had much luck and we are running out of supplies!!!

I'm reaching out to see if anyone has any of the following that they would be willing to make/donate to our agency or if you have found any of these items in stock, please let me know; face masks, hand sanitizer, gloves, clorox wipes, lysol, and "no touch/no contact" thermometers.

Any help is appreciated!!!!

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 14 Apr 20 - 08:08 PM

Dupont:

A week ago Sunday, I decided a flush toilet is a priority so I drove back to Chateauguay. Quebec had police at the border with NO masks. I stopped and was asked to roll down my window so I put on my mask and did so and explained why I was going to Chateauguay. To see mon homme and get car serviced. Of course, I cannot get car serviced nor am I going anywhere. An excursion to obtain groceries last week was a two hour ordeal. It was all easy and well organized, It was only when I was safely home that the stress hit me - for two days. I am planning to have them delivered next time - in a couple weeks or so.

I have only left the house to walk around the yard - when it has not been cold or raining. R worked two days in the city but not near any humans. I am not sure which of us is more stressed by this. I have only managed bare essentials: meals, dishes, laundry. AND watering the 70 house plants! It is nice to see the bulbs, planted last fall, coming up! And other things poking through.

Just talked to my son in PA. Does not seem to be getting things done. Put him on calendar for Thurs to check in. Yeah, he is 57 but these are tough times!

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Apr 20 - 12:07 PM

I have a couple of parcels next to the front door and a box in the SUV that arrived or were picked up recently - they're just sitting. And when I finally open them they'll get a wipe-down with a household cleaner. When I again check my post office mailbox (sometime this week) it'll sit on the workbench in the garage to air out for a few days. As I read about disinfecting protocols it seems that household cleaners are considered pretty good for the job; last year I bought a large bottle of Formula 409 to refill my spray bottle, which is used for a lot of this work.

I examined my old White rotary sewing machine this weekend; the side-loading bobbin case isn't attaching properly in the bobbin shuttle, so I'll have to take it apart at some point and see what's up. And one of the vintage machines I picked up to sell on eBay, turns out it's missing the bobbin case altogether. eBay is still up and running and after a little research it looks like these front-loading bobbins are pretty standardized. I've ordered one to see what happens. So all of my mask sewing is on my regular sewing machine and I'm making the bias tape a bit wider to make it easier to work with now that I've worked out the pattern and process for the masks I'm making for friends and family. (Three layers, with a gap left on the inside layer on one side in case the user wants to slide in a folded coffee filter for extra protection.)

The oldest sewing machine has the bias tape attachment, and if the newer White machine had a bobbin right now in theory the old attachment will fit on the new machine. I think the new bobbin will arrive mid-week and that's one package I won't let sit awhile before opening.

Spring cleaning today, meaning vacuuming, dusting, rearranging and where there is too much stuff, storing donations until they can again be dropped off. Quilt and delicate bedding are in the washer on the gentlest cycle available.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: mg
Date: 13 Apr 20 - 12:42 AM

found my mailbox key..spare one. was worried i lost my key very close to mailbox, so anyone who found it could just easily get into the box. talk of bread reminds me i was going to have my cream cheese an ritz crackers. yummy.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Apr 20 - 10:05 PM

A day later and the dog-proof compost enclosure has not been breached by a dog. I dug another wheelbarrow full of weeds and deposited them inside, and then was able to put in a few plants in the part of the garden I've managed to clear. They're reinforced with a plastic pot or a straw (split lengthwise) around the stem hoping to defeat cutworms that were such a problem last year.

I delivered 3/4 of a batch of dinner rolls to my ex this afternoon, in exchange for some groceries he picked up. I also shared some of my supply of yeast. I kept just enough for a few small sandwiches for myself.

Back to the sewing machine.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Apr 20 - 05:42 PM

I took a lot of leftover chicken wire and metal fence posts and old vinyl clothesline and assembled a covered compost pile. I'm sure the three dogs will figure out how to dig in soon, but I'll have to defeat them after that and then I can use this for the five-gallon decomposed kitchen waste that slowly fills beside the kitchen door (where the dogs don't go). I made a hole in the middle of the lawn clippings, poured the slop in from one bucket, and topped it with a wheelbarrow full of weeds pulled yesterday in the new garden plot. That bucket is rinsed back in service, the second one will go into the compost next week. I usually don't let them both fill like this, but with the surgery I wasn't going to be lugging them to the back yard for composting.

Until I assembled this thing I wasn't going to try to put in the new garden beds, because I start a new compost pile every year and I didn't have one yet. I have three or four mounds back in that part of the yard that were previous compost piles so I can dig and move them for more topsoil where I need it. As "finished" compost there is no point in piling raw stuff on top of them.

Checking the mail. I use a pair of tongs and place the pieces on a shelf next to the door, leaving it for a couple of days. I checked the post office and put it in a cloth bag, then when I got home used paint stir sticks like chop sticks and pulled the mail out while I was in the garage. It sat on my workbench for several days. Today I have a parcel a friend mailed(the tote bags I mentioned a few days ago) and I'll use a disinfectant to clean the outside of the package. I figure the fabric items inside won't have any COVID19 virus after several days (and because the friend is high risk as a recent cancer patient and will have been in her house for weeks now.)

So far the dogs are enjoying the new dog beds I've made. Knock wood they're still in place and not shredded.

I'm tired of my own cooking, but I'll still have dinner here today. I'll plan to pick up something tomorrow.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Apr 20 - 03:59 PM

Here in Texas it goes from cold to hot like the flip of a switch, and today is hot, in the high-80s. As will tomorrow be, so I'll finish my mowing in the morning. Today I tackled a part of the yard where my garden usually resides; I took down some short green metal fence posts and my next job will be to shift the soil along the line and push it into specific raised beds instead of having all of that soil spread where it was part of a much larger garden (it was up against some 2x12 planks for several years; now I'm planning to confine the garden to smaller but better weeded areas).

Some years ago my sister mailed me boxes of fabric that constituted part of my mother's stash - most of it had been used the the next-to-last house she lived in, the one where I spent about half of my school years. We sewed a lot back then. Mom smoked a lot and that house was built into a moist hillside so it was always musty. I left it in the boxes for a long time, but finally took it out, and decades later that stash was still smoky/musty. It has been through several washes and finally is "normal." The oxyclean seems to have tipped the scale; anyway, this will be part of the mask operation.

Last night I took the large outside fluffy cloth case that had held some kind of fiber for an expired dog bed and folded it in half and sewed it into now double-layer case. The original fiber came to pieces in the dryer; for this half-size bed I had some of the padded fabric from the previous dog-resistant couch cover that was folded several times and inserted; I sewed it closed (no zippers, this is a rough job and who knows how long before Cookie drags it out the dog door and destroys it—though I did spray it with that Yuck! stuff to discourage her.) This will go in the closet doorway in my office where Pepper hunkers down during thunder storms.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 07 Apr 20 - 10:12 AM

Himself beat me to the field-expedient mask project and whomped up his own out of a red bandanna. He found it too hot and it steamed up his spectacles, so today he's experimenting with a Buff, a neck-gaiter-ish garment made of technical athletic fabric.

It's not dense enough to be much more than a sneeze-catcher, but it has Welsh dragons on it, so, bonus.

Jobs today are laundry for me, and bread-making for Himself. Plus editing. He's chopping at his jeezly big paper to get it down to publishable length, and I, of course, have the Afghanistan book. I'm on Chapter 7, and it's 2010 in Kandahar Province, where bad things are happening.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Apr 20 - 05:26 PM

Here's a hospital video showing how people can construct masks for hospitals (and the hospitals will put in the final pieces).

There is a PDF pattern with it linked from the YouTube page.

My days are split between daytime/outdoors activities and evening sewing, web content work, etc. I don't think it's people just hanging out in their pajamas at home any more.

Dinner rolls are in the bread machine for baking and distribution in a little while.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 06 Apr 20 - 10:57 AM

My sister-in-law is making masks for us, and for now I am making field-expedient ones out of Himself's worn-out tee shirts and elastic bands.

There's a nice video on YouTube of the U.S. Surgeon General demonstrating how to make an improvised mask

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Apr 20 - 12:38 AM

Yes - for a while the world will revolve on the homemade bias tape holding on face masks. I have made wide tape for big projects; making it narrower means you get more length for the amount of fabric that is used for it, but I totally agree, it is time-consuming. I don't have any of those bias tape tool things that you pull it through and iron it, but I have an antique sewing machine with a bias tape foot that will serve me well. (Any sewing related stuff on Amazon is all sold out until May; we have to be resourceful and use skills learned a very long time ago.) And what is so remarkable, all of a sudden that stash is not being laughed about as the frivolous hoarding of home-sewers.

We've lived under a literal cloud since early last week, and while the next couple of days are supposed to be warmer they're still overcast, then we get more rain end of the week. I do wish it would pace itself. Now that I'm more active I'd like to walk the dogs, but not when it's cold and blustery.

Baking again tomorrow; it seems the dinner rolls are a real hit, so the proposed cinnamon rolls will wait for another day. I've taken them hot out of the oven with tongs, used gloves and bags out of the box to hold them then delivered next door and across the street. I wouldn't try it with anything that wasn't just cooked and delivered immediately. Next door offered chicken salad, but there is too much chance that could pick up something if they've been exposed. What a life we live these days.

Stay healthy everyone. And Dorothy, I hope R is being careful if he's going about any of his regular business.

Susan, if you're reading along, I hope you're in a safe place. We're still thinking of you.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: LilyFestre
Date: 05 Apr 20 - 11:56 AM

I've been making masks too. Yesterday I started making masks with a tie as faces are so varied by size. I don't have any bias tape on hand so I am making my own...not hard but time consuming.

Pennsylvania has been asked to wear a mask whenever we go out....this family will do just that IF we go out.

I spent 3 hours today going through a box that I have been tossing mail in....organized a lot, threw out even more and paid most of our bills. I am proud of us in that we have saved enough money to pay our property taxes early enough to qualify for a 10% discount. YAY US!

We have a bear at our house. We've lived here for over 20 years and have only one other bear that I know of and he was only in the field at the end of our very long driveway. This new bear is on the smaller side but he was on our porch last night!!!!

Working 2 days a week at home has proved to be more difficult than I thought but only because I am so easily distracted. Maybe it just takes time to get used to it.

For those of you who don't live in the US, what kinds of restrictions are you facing due to the COVID-19 virus?

Stay safe and healthy out there!
Much love to all,

Michelle

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Apr 20 - 08:49 PM

I've laundered two sets of fabric, one light, one dark, from my stash, and today I cleared off a lot of clutter on the table where I sew. I have several requests for masks so I need to start making them. I've identified four different types of patterns and ideas about how to assemble them. Once I have a few prototypes I'll post photos for those who made requests to tell me which they want.

I actually have a job for several hours a week so that happens a little bit every day. I worked at home before, so nothing has changed, except that now there is an urgency to getting the content out there for people who are looking for our kind of information, so I'm throwing in a couple of hours a week I'm not reporting.

I haven't completely shrugged off the bursitis. I use an ice pack and alternating heat on the adjacent muscles, but I also am doing a hot soak in the tub each day, at least as long as the weather stays this cool.

Today I bought a couple of tote bags from a friend who sews for a living; they're gorgeous, and one will be a gift for my daughter. She will mail them and the package can be disinfected then the bags ironed to kill any virus. Or washed then ironed. Mostly I wanted to offer some income since my friend is mostly sewing masks these days, giving some away, selling the rest (as requested by local doctors and hospitals). My stash isn't as huge as hers, but I have a lot of of other fabric here that could be used, garments not being worn, etc. Give them a wash with bleach or an oxygen cleaner, iron them, and they will be good to go.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 04 Apr 20 - 08:08 PM

Beaver:

Warmish and not raining, I put all the throw rugs out on the deck vacuumed, shook the rugs and put them back in place. Also swept the front door step. It will look nice for a few days. Weeded around the sorrel and ate one fresh, and tasty, leaf! Cut back the oregano and saved some of the seeds.

It was too warm to work in the studio (solar gain) but I did a few small things to be ready for next time.

Drove to town (6 min) to meet friends for whom I save boxes; this bunch had been in and out of my car a few times since October so I was happy to finally have them gone. I had not touched the boxes in two weeks so I let them remove the lot to their vehicle, and a pile of egg cartons for the DIL who has chickens. It was nice to see these folks for a few minutes. And nice to have that out of my car. Next, some things for the thrift shop - they are all closed so I will put that stuff into the outside cabinet, in a construction grade plastic bag.

Cooked a pot of split peas; mixing them with the celery stew and some cheese.

A big chunk of each day is spent going through 100, more or less, emails and signing petitions. Sometimes I manage to "unsubscribe" from a few but I am not sure it lasts! And, of course on FB and info seeking.

The lovely day went grey and heavy so mostly just read. Even forgot to bring in wood but there is enough. I think it was up to 50 today so I pretty well let the fire go out and restarted it about 6pm.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 04 Apr 20 - 01:33 PM

Well, I cleaned the bathroom. Enough of that nonsense. Maybe tomorrow I'll take the vacuum cleaner out for a spin.

But today I get to go to the supermarket -- whee! I just hope I can find something tasty and different for supper; I'm ringing the changes on our routine menu, but running out of ideas.

It is also to be hoped that the price of oranges is at least a little less frightening than it was a week ago.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Apr 20 - 08:11 PM

We're back to cold weather for a couple of days—it was a slight drizzle so I didn't go mow the front. These days instead of mulching onto the ground I'm using the bag to catch some of the grass to put into the compost, and then once that's cooking I'll move the plastic barrier and start a new pile for the year.

No six-week post-op appointment next week; instead the nurse called and asked how I'm doing and since I'm fine, we pushed the appointment out eight weeks. Many appointments have been pushed way back.

Time to get moving - the dog hair has piled up in drifts, telling me it's time to sweep, mop, and then once the house is looking better, I need to start brushing the dogs. Spring is here.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 03 Apr 20 - 10:49 AM

Beaver:
(Being written Thursday night but, due to wifi, will not go out until tomorrow.)

I think chocolate is essential. It seems to be the only thing that gets my eyes open in the am and I needed another bunch a couple hours ago to get going again. It just generally gets me feeling alive! This is a recent development OR maybe I should have tried it sooner!

The thaw is taking its time this year. I watch bits of the world re-appearing. My sorrel plant, close to the south wall has leaves that should soon be edible! The comfrey and rhubarb are peeking through. Raised beds still covered with frozen snow - but less each day. The 2 foot wide brook is about 20 feet wide but only a bit more than half way up the culvert.

R went back to Quebec to water the 70 house plants. He could not fix the septic until the ground thaws. He may not be back soon.

The front yard there is clear and I want to go see my plants appear - those I planted so happily last fall! Montreal is seriously impacted but Chateauguay could be OK; I would not leave the house. And it is large enough to keep our social distance. I fancy a nice hot bath! And my car needs servicing at the dealer.

However, I shall try to hang in until the weather is a bit more settled. I could go one day and come back the next. R can send me pics of the yard. At my age each spring is precious! Watching things sprout and grow is one of my greatest pleasures. And nurturing them!

The LR rug is still damp and rolled up in the woodshed; I cannot move it otherwise I could have put it out these dry sunny days. All the rag rugs need laundering but ... no septic. I wash dishes and undies in large bowls and dump the water outside! It helps melt some snow. I washed and cut my hair today. And scrubbed the top of the frig! Had to use the 3 step ladder but had plenty to hold on to - in case. Got some cobwebs while I was up there! Little improvements happen as the spirit moves me. Like: "Oh, that does not need to be there!"

Maybe tomorrow I can eat some choc and trim the pots I threw last week! Even wedge some clay. Even throw a few more. Maybe.

The moon is so bright tonight, I cannot look at it directly! The decreased pollution even affects us in the boonies!

Well, it is still morning (10:30). I have been to a small store for frozen organic boneless skinless chicken breasts; I asked if it were ok to take two bags; it was. And a 5pound brick of medium cheddar - orange, which I detest but they would not have the one year white for a couple weeks. Staff (all two of them)were well prepared with plastic face shields, and stir sticks to use on the credit card machine as it was over $100. The stick "is yours" and I put it in my pocket in case... Wore my pollution mask. First time out in near two weeks.

The fire is going, had a healthy BF: pureed black beans mixed with the celery stew and some orange cheese. Made a batch of anti-inflam tea; no lemon so I will use apple cider vinegar.

1 April was the 5th anniversary of buying this property. We were looking around, when R was here, exclaiming on the improvements we have made - with much help. We both love it. It was also my 2nd son's 57th b-day. He works from home, in his condo. May be out of a job in 2 weeks. The wife he is trying to divorce works for a major pharma; she will not be out of a job. She refuses to accept the idea of divorce; I fear she will become nasty when she does. I fear I have raised a son who is too nice for his own good. He needs his (big) brother.

Drizzly day. 40F.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: mg
Date: 03 Apr 20 - 02:13 AM

i hope that those who need money can earn a bit by sewing these and gowns.   i think i said my simple trick..a hair elastic..big kind like a headband. Secure a paper napkin in and done. I keep getting extra napkins given to me at mcdonald's..i never liberate them. I also tried a long t shirt for those who don't have many options..just pull it over your head, up over your nose and tie the sleeves in back. Tuck in excess. It does look foolish but which is more important..looking sophisticated or saving lives. And I truly believe that our failure to insist on wearing face coverings from day one has cost us many lives, as well as terrible economic devastation. Wear them please whether required or not. Lives depend on this.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Apr 20 - 01:24 AM

It's good to know how it went at your doctor's office. I think my appointment for Monday may be on after all, but from your description I'll make a point of carrying my wallet in my pocket and leave everything else home or hidden in the car. I think the office will take temperatures at the door, make everyone wear a mask, don't bring anyone with you if you don't need to, and checkout is probably paperless.

I have three different patterns to try out for the masks that may be required soon in parts of the US. I'll make a few this weekend and have them on hand at my doctor's office and see which the nurses and physician's assistant prefer. (I'll iron some and store them in plastic zip bags, and have one of each model out to look at.) Might as well ask the pros, then go from there. I'm mainly going to make them for friends and family, I think. Though I have a friend who is seeing orders go through the roof from area doctors and hospitals (she's a seamstress).

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 02 Apr 20 - 09:43 PM

If anyone ever sees me broadcasting from my desk, they can damned well take me as I am, with my hair on end and Watson the cat climbing onto my shoulder. He’s the worst editorial assistant ever.

Today I went to Kitchener for my monthly allergy needle. The doctor’s waiting room was stripped of its comfy chairs and magazines, and the nursing staff had the place set up for isolation technique — one patient at a time, halt at the door, bring nothing in with you, lots of questions, mask and hand washing, don’t touch anything. When I took my sweater off, the nurse told me to hold it so it did not touch anything in the room; she shot me, and then let me out by another door after washing my hands again. It was like 45 years ago in the infected wounds ward at Stadacona Hospital.

Instead of the recreational shopping I usually indulge in when I go to town, I came straight home and made a large batch of soup.

I notice that we’re saving money. Lunches out and fancy coffees cost a lot; who knew?

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Apr 20 - 11:22 AM

I'm testing the delivery system set up by Aldi and have ordered a few luxury (to me) items - chocolate and beer and some snack foods. I'm doing very well at pacing myself and not wiping out snacks in a hurry, but I'm out and it isn't worth a trip to the store to buy beer and chocolate and chips.

I've rearranged the books behind my office chair and am ready to take the hood off of my web cam. I don't use if often so I keep it covered to avoid unexpected photos of myself in my bathrobe. I'm enjoying seeing all of the places commentators and reporters are setting up to broadcast, whether in a home office (usually with books or art in the background) or in hallways or basements with various architectural features balanced by a television displaying the company logo on one side and balanced with some light fixture on the other side.

Sun today, rain tomorrow and the next several days, so I must take myself out into the yard. And I took the dogs for a lovely walk last night, and they'll benefit from another one today. The titanium knee feels much better than the old one. Now if the swelling will finally dissipate. I still have the ice pack handy after a busy day of walking, but I am doing pretty much the normal amount of walking now. I'm shifting my exercises to exclude the last one that seems to keep the bursitis a little bit flared. That will be a big relief (and since my doctor isn't seeing patients right now unless they've hurt themselves somehow, I don't think I'll be able to get that steroid shot that promises some instant relief).

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Mar 20 - 11:14 AM

My next door neighbor made a run to Costco this morning in support of her son who is an essential worker and can't manage to get there. He needed toilet paper, and while shopping, she found the #20 of flour I buy there. Bless her! I will live without chocolate (I can make something, I have some cocoa mix) but it's time we all just stopped going to the store a couple of times a week. Though Aldi has the chocolate just inside the front door, and I could pick it up then step over to the register and be in and out quickly. I can mail order it from Amazon. Chocolate is doable.

I'm finally off of Tramadol. It took four extra days of weaning.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 31 Mar 20 - 09:59 AM

Oh, Stilly. If you lived with Himself, you would never forget the chocolate.

The air is alive with the racket of chainsaws and woodchipper as the Lott family of Tim's Tree Service take down our rotten poplar tree before it can fall on the neighbours' roof. Then they will move on to three scraggly white cedars, also threatening the neighbours' roof, and the oversized yew bushes in front of the house that give our verandah the air of an Irish churchyard -- not conducive to an evening beer.

Steve the Garden Guy has given up his freelance business in favour of full-time employment, so I need to find another jobbing gardener. Quickly. When Tim & Co finish logging out the property, the front of the house will look very bald.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Mar 20 - 12:00 AM

I haven't been able to buy flour. I fear I'm going to have to go to Costco and buy a big honker #40 bag and decant it into gallon bags that will live in the freezer until I need them. I did a grocery run for my ex, who did several grocery runs for me after surgery (and a couple of taxi-service runs that no one would do now.) I found everything on his list and mine, except the flour. I put the bags on the kitchen counter and emptied things into new containers and tossed the bags and boxes. Eggs into tray in fridge, toss the boxes. Washed the fruit, and washed the outer sealed plastic bags that some things came in.

Oh - two things. I forgot to look for chocolate.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 30 Mar 20 - 02:42 PM

We get Lake Effect weather that whips storm cells (also called line squalls) across the landscape to engulf an area in torrential rain and then pass on. On one of my first trips to the allergy doc in Kitchener, I drove through no fewer than four such storm cells on my way home, each more blinding than the last. Just at the town boundary, I saw a SUV hydroplane off the road and into the ditch, sending up a tsunami that flooded the road even more and damn near sent me into the ditch, too. Fortunately, I was pooting along in third gear at rather less than 50 kph, so my wheels remained in contact with the pavement; any faster, and I would have shared the SUV driver's fate.

Today, it's just grey and chilly. Very Monday. We're working. Nothing else to do.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Mar 20 - 11:15 AM

Someone has finally convinced Trump that Easter isn't a go for people being out and about; in China, where they dealt with this several months ago they're still having difficulty convincing people they need to come out and return to work. The population is leery of the conditions and knows that the export market has dropped out of sight in the rest of the world.

Much of the human world has lived a charmed life until now; and only now, and still from positions of relative privilege, are we glimpsing the problems that have come up in other places with other types of outbreaks. And those other places where standards of living are so much lower and people are so much more crowded, people will simply die.

The great leveler around here is the weather. Tornadoes. We're into the dynamic spring weather pattern, and all it will take is a super cell or two and we're in a similarly desperate situation. Everyone, keep your heads down and pay attention to your neighbor's needs as well as your own. It's the only way we're going to get out of this alive.

Cassandra

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 09:08 PM

More rain today. Himself went out for a walk on the Avon Trail this afternoon, but was hardly out of town when he found himself facing a flood on the path. It ‘s been pitching down since Friday — or was it Thursday?

I’m struggling to the end of a chapter, and Himself has just finished a big, fat paper on military law that he wants me to read. I have plenty to do, God knows, but right now this minute I don’t wanna.

Maybe I’ll be more public-spirited in the morning.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: LilyFestre
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 01:05 PM

Hey Broome County! I work in Chemung County...you aren't far away at all.

Hope you are safe and sound up in your neck of the woods....I see on the daily news of the climbing number of diagnoses and death. :(


Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands (to the tune of Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest from Beauty and the Beast) ;)

Michelle

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 12:49 PM

Michelle, I understand your sadness and frustration and not seeing your Mom. I talk to my daughter several times a week (she lives in the county north of me) but if we were to meet we'd have to stay several feet apart and no hugs. :-( I also think you need to stay at home to protect yourself and your family - if they lose you they will be lost; you're a rock for them. So stay healthy.

I've found myself at the drug store a couple of times a week, usually because of some or other health thing following the surgery (the yeast infection that won't quit - but any more would be TMI). I understand Pete's frustration with the pain; I'm stepping down on medication strengths, but am being careful to always eat something as I alternate Rx Ibuprofen and slow-release Acetaminophen so I don't tear up my stomach. And while I thought getting off of the oxycodone after two weeks was pretty good, I switched to Tramadol (codeine) that is in some ways more insidious. It's difficult to stop taking it and switch to something non-narcotic; after 3-4 weeks you can't just stop it or it makes you feel really bad overall, and this different pain is on top of whatever you're regularly treating. I'm tapering now as I cut the pills and try to stretch it out to longer and longer between the smaller doses.

There are many cases of COVID19 in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, but few seem to be tested. It's anecdotal until people are sick enough to go to the hospital for testing and admission. Texas is doing little regarding building extra capacity and ventilators, that falls on the cities and counties. People may want to use this site https://covidnearyou.org/#!/ recommended by Mrrzy in another thread. Report every day and be part of the data. I take my temperature every day now that I have the new thermometer (I bought it when I was recovering from the surgery so I could detect an elevated temperature due to infection; who knew this would come along at the same time.)

In my declutter activity (there is still some!) I took the sturdy part part of a large dog bed that got torn up by the puppy and folded in half and sewed it into a pouch that I closed on one end with strips of velcro. I folded a torn-up-but-washed-one-more-time comforter from the kennel and put it in the casing. And I sprayed it the the bitter yuck stuff to keep the puppy from tearing it up. The kennel was bare for a few days and no one used it, but now that the new padded thing is in there, it is once again a place the dogs voluntarily go to sleep. I rarely close the door on it (unless Cookie is in time out - she's getting a little better about some of the puppy nonsense).

Charmion, I was in the driveway yesterday watching a mockingbird go through an elaborate display on the next door neighbor's rooftop TV aerial. And the sounds - I'm not sure where all of them came from. I have in the past heard them mimic car alarms, but we don't hear those alarms so often any more so the birds have moved onto other electronic noises to perform.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 12:15 PM

Beaver:

Well, mostly I prefer living in the boonies, septic, wood stove, peace and quiet... The other morning we woke to the top of the west hill RED!! Then it wasn't. This morning we awoke to Charmion's RAIN! Weather does move from west to east in this part of the world!

R cleared paths to the outhouse; he used it but today we make do. Also cleared to the Library and most of the back deck is clear. --WOW!!! I is pouring. This should get us past the thaw! Glad I emptied the night bucket a bit ago!

So he went shopping for something for the plumbing and some food stuffs and to avoid going stir crazy. I am fearfully tired this am. And a tich concerned. R believes we are both fine. Time will tell. I wash my hands about every five minutes! Or so it seems.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Donuel
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 11:56 AM

Hello Tioga Co, I'm from Broome Co.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: LilyFestre
Date: 29 Mar 20 - 11:49 AM

Hello Friends,

    Tioga County Pennsylvania has now joined the ranks of most other counties in the state as having identified someone with COVID-19. The county in which I work is now over 10 cases I believe...up from just 1 a week ago. Statistically, I know things are looking good for us in this area however, I am finding myself maybe a bit over anxious about it all. My job is moving everyone to 2 days at the office and 2 days working at home. Either way, we are speaking with clients and providers telephonically. I had once poor soul come to the office last week and while standing at least 8 feet away, I sent her home after explaining the why of it all. Our agency still remains open for face to face visits if a client is in crisis or extreme need. Tomorrow I will approach my supervisor and share that due to being in a high risk category (diabetic), I will no longer see clients face to face. I am on the verge of requesting to just work from home. According the American's With Disability Act, I am legally able to do this....will my agency approve? I'm not sure. Honestly I would prefer to work at the office...distractions are far fewer and the overall business of myself and those around me is quite enjoyable.

I haven't seen my mom in a week now. I know maybe that sounds silly to some of you but my mom and I are very close and used to seeing each other maybe 3 times a week. I do talk to her daily, sometimes a few times a day but I'm missing her. She is missing me also...both of us to the point of tears already. If today wasn't so cold and rainy, I'd go sit with her on the deck....6 feet apart, probably more like 8 to be safe....and just visit. I worry about me taking any germs to her as she is also diabetic but also has age and a respiratory issue that puts her at even greater risk.

Ok. Enough of this. Thanks for letting me vent.

I did some sewing yesterday and today I will putter in my sewing room to make space for my necessary work gear for next week. I'm planning on roasting a chicken and some vegetables later and also a large crock pot full of spaghetti sauce with fresh veggies and meat. That should hold us for a few days anyway.

Pete is home full time with Jeremiah. Schools here are closed until at least April 9th although I have a feeling that will be extended. Pete is not doing well. He has continued pain in his shoulder and right arm. He has had a scan that shows no sign of a blood clot. He is disappointed about that because he said that if it was a blood clot, they would be able to break it up and he could move on without any pain. So far he has had 3 heavy duty pain medications, none of which do a thing to help. He has a video appointment with his PCP tomorrow..hopefully they will have something helpful for him. In addition, he fell out by one of the chicken houses and hurt his right hip. He did say that that is feeling better. Why am I sharing all this? Maybe to justify the ridiculous amount of food I am trying to make ahead so he won't have to do much I suppose. Also, I like to cook and it helps to settle my nerves which I seem to have an overabundance of.
Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.

Michelle

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 28 Mar 20 - 11:34 AM

Once again, Dorothy reminds me to be grateful we live in town and don't have to nurse a septic tank. Thanks for that.

First shoots in the garden; bulbs planted in front of the house in one of our few full-sun spots, and the primrose in full yellow blossom.

The Robinovitch family has returned; I hear them in the morning and I saw Papa pulling something delicious out of the lawn the other day. Few things amuse me quite so much as the sight of robins running; they look like old ladies hustling to catch the bus.

I read "Journal of the Plague Year" in university, some 40 years ago. I don't need to read it again; I remember it all too well, especially in my least-favourite dreams. Likewise "La peste". Somehow epidemic disease is still worse in French, even if it's an allegory for fascism. Or maybe because.

It's raining in Stratford. Bleah.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 27 Mar 20 - 03:35 PM

Beaver:

So R got here yesterday and has cleared paths to important places - like his library. I threw 3 pots yesterday and a bit more work - wedging/reclaiming clay. Also some snow removal. Then was totally exhausted and had big pain in back. Heating pad and rest the rest of the day! Except refrigerating what he brought and organizing the rest, including nice pile of books!

He slept on sofa and I in bed, just in case. He sleeps well on sofas. Today, 3 more pots and some more clay prep and then back... heating pad... Nice to have company. Realizing this is a long term project. There will be trips back and forth every few days to water the plants! I suspect R will decide he needs to do some office work (that is safe).

There is now water in the rain barrel I can access most easily so I washed dishes this am. Need to empty the water outside as the septic still needs work; it is still covered with about 18 inches of frozen snow, then frozen earth. R is anxious to get it sorted. Cannot rush Nature!

Life goes on at a very low level.I hope my body will get used to doing clay work again. And another couple weeks may see some clear space in the yard. Hoping to see the sorrel soon - green stuff to add to salad; comfrey is sprouting and I should be able to clear the old growth in a couple more days, also rhubarb and... The raised beds still have 10 or more inches of snow cover! But the thaw is progressing daily!!

Thankful that it is spring coming and not winter! Sunshine and a flawless blue sky does help.

Breaking news: R cleared the snow from the septic. Now the sun can get at the soil.

Subject: RE: De-clutter & Fitness: House, job, life 2019 - 2020
From: Charmion
Date: 27 Mar 20 - 11:24 AM

mg, I was under the impression that indulgences -- plenary and otherwise -- were done away with sometime in the 17th century!? Please correct me if I'm wrong; as an Anglican, I have a less than reliable education in such matters.

The plumber just paid us a visit, to attend to a leaking connection in the laundry room, and I confess to having put on a clean shirt for the occasion. Our social circle is now entirely notional; all contacts with humans with whom we do not share a domicile are either electronically mediated or strictly business.