Pot Bellied Stove / Water Cooler
Replies
-
Good Morning. Isabella, it's the "Fearless Flyer" and I got mine too and made a list of new items I want to try out. Some new items from last month (or 2 months ago) I still have sitting in the pantry. Sounded terrific, but I don't care for them. Rosemary & Cheese Biscuits, (a semi-soft cracker), a bit strong, too much rosemary to my liking. I bought some new spices, but they already smell stale...not a great aroma. I was shocked and disappointed, TJ's usually has great things. I have decided that I HAVE to buy spices in the little containers so I can replenish them with new and fresh more often. I have spices in the cabinet dated back to 2014. I'm really cleaning house.
Yes, I have a great sister. And, Debora, you are a great sister too, taking your sister to appointments and also fun activities. You're amazing, going to a ball game, a play and another ball game all in one evening. I'm sure all the grandkids appreciated having grandma and grandpa attend their activities.
John is not settled with the woodstove yet, at least not while it's just the two of us. However, yesterday, Jack and Gayla came over and John raved about the stove. After they left, the other John dropped by. Was just passing by and decided he had a few extra minutes so he pulled in the driveway. We have taken to locking the front gate because of solicitors not heeding the No Soliciting sign out front. I had just gotten off the phone with Norma and still had the phone in my hand. I looked out the window and saw the other John in the driveway with his cell phone in his hand and as I told my John to go let him in, the phone rang. He was telling me he's out there and I answered "I see you". Good thing it was really him or someone on the other end would have been spooked. We had a good visit, been a long time since we've gotten together. He's having medical issues too and has stayed home more than ever before. Anyway, my John raved about the woodstove to the other John too, he just goes nuts to me about the stove.
Gayla is now using a walker. It was quite a feat getting across the street and through our muddy walkway with it, but the cane was putting her off balance and caused shoulder pain. She can hardly wait for tax season to be over and she can have her surgery.
I had quite a long, very good and intense talk with my Mom yesterday and I told her to consider coming up here with Norma. I believe that she actually may do it. Every excuse she came up with, I had an answer and solution for. She never said "No", and once I have a set date for surgery, and they buy the plane tickets, she's locked in. She'll have a few hours of discomfort traveling, but once she gets here, she can sit in my big comfy chair and we can rest and visit. I told her that we won't be traveling and sight seeing, it's a vacation of REST and when Norma craves activity, she can go outside and do something with John. We'll see how that plays out.
Marcie, it was in my local news about the Lake Oroville dam problems and evacuations. I had to look at the map and see how close that is to you. Not too close, but not too far away either, not the way water flows, I'm thinking that it could effect your area. Any news of it causing problems your way? I know you have had lots of rain, much more than usual.
Today is surgery day for my aunt. Anxious to get any news later on to see how things went. I'm praying that this will solve her problems. That will be such a relief for her family. Having her back again and not having to deal with long-term care.
0 -
Happy Valentine's Day. I didn't get over here this morning, but have some time this evening.
Had a good Bible Study this afternoon and did a little shopping, stopped to pick up Rx's. Still waiting to hear about which day will be surgery day. Hope to hear very soon, as Norma wants to buy airline tickets at a good price and needs notice to do that. Great news, my Mom is going to come up with Norma. This will either be terrific or horrific. ha ha ha
I have not heard anything about my aunt yet, I pray that her surgery yesterday went well.0 -
Good Morning. Just a quick note since I dropped by last night. Not much new here. Getting my email update ready to go.
I am planning to watch an hour program on beating cancer tonight on the internet. I was wondering if I'd be able to watch it uninterrupted, that's unusual around here. If it were on tv, I'd record it because I know John will need help with something during the program, but, it's on-line and I don't know how or if I can record it. Anyway, I just saw a Portland Trailblazers game (basketball) on the tv schedule at 6 pm tonight...yay, John will be occupied. He can watch tv and I'll watch the computer.
Going to speech therapy this afternoon, in the rain. Forecast for heavy rain all day long.
I guess that's about it.0 -
Just popping in to say "hi". Hope you're all having a good week. Mine filled up more than I thought it would so back later.0
-
Good Morning. I got the date for surgery, Tuesday, March 21st, and immediately told Norma. By having it later in the month, she got a better price on the airline tickets. I guess the prices were higher earlier in the month for Spring Break, maybe? So, they will be arriving Sunday, March 19th and staying until Sunday, April 2nd. Mom was changing her mind, but Norma and I both shot down all of her stupid excuses. One of her lame excuses was that she doesn't have a rain coat anymore. I jumped on that one...we're NOT leaving her out in the rain!!!!!
I started to go through my closet to clean out clothes that I haven't worn in years. I came upon some nice blouses that were too tight in the bust line. Stretching the buttons to their limit. But, I'll save them a little longer, with breast reduction, maybe they will fit again?!?!?!?
The program that I watched last night was very interesting. This guy was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in 2004. He had surgery, but refused radiation and chemo and healed himself with diet and exercise and "clean" living. I'm gleaning a lot of good information from all these alternative methods of treatment that I'm finding and incorporating what is best for me. I will still do surgery and stay on my chemo pill, but certainly eat better and exercise when I can and take some of the supplements. I'm using probiotics and bone broth, etc. And, the most important thing, pray for God's healing. He started off by saying "Cancer is a Divine tap on the shoulder...how you are living is killing you!" By knowing that we can change lifestyle to heal our bodies, gives us empowerment.
The program I watched last night was the first part of a ten part series. "Just getting started" and already he mentioned many times that this is a 100%, full time commitment, for at least 2 years to completely get rid of the cancer. I know myself! I have terrible self-discipline and would not stick to a strict regimen full time, so I'm taking parts of what works good for me. I feel like I have a head-start since my household is tobacco free and although there is some wine for John, I'm alcohol free as well. I don't like carbonation, so no soda for me. I'm cutting back on the coffee, but won't cut it out completely. I'm finding that I'm taking a liking to some herbal teas, who knew?
Yesterday, speech therapy showed some improvement. In one exercise, the goal is to hold a note for 40 seconds. Last week, I could do 8 seconds and yesterday, I held it for 12 seconds. But, 40 seconds sounds like an eternity right now. My high notes are clear, but when I move down the scale...gravel.
Still haven't heard anything about my aunt, I hate to bug Lara for news, she's got her hands full. I'll just continue to pray for healing.
Today, I have a follow-up appointment with the pulmonologist. I trust that he will release me for surgery. He may want to talk to the anesthesiologist, they work at the same hospital, so it shouldn't be a problem contacting each other.
I guess that's it for now.
Debora, hope you have a chance to breath this week and then come and tell us all about it.
Marcie, hope you are staying dry and traffic is not too bad with all the crazies out there in the rain. Miss your morning break comments.
0 -
Happy Birthday To You!
Happy Birthday To You!
Happy Birthday Dear Isabella!!!!!!!!
Happy Birthday To You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope you have a wonderful day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!0 -
A quick Good Morning, I've got to get the car back to Toyota this morning to have a tire fixed. Yesterday, when I went out to leave for my appointments, I had a flat tire. Big screw in the right rear. I was able to reschedule the blood test for today and that gave us an hour to change the tire, in the rain. I pushed John to his limits, he was cold and wet and miserable, but he helped me and we got the job done. I got to my pulmonary appointment exactly on time. More on that later.
Nancy told me that she heard from Lara and our aunt's surgery was successful. She will keep me in the loop whenever she hears more.
Gotta go get the car ready. If I'm not back later today, I'll have lots to say in the morning.
0 -
Good Morning, I spent my morning watching the 3rd module of Square One, very good. I couldn't watch it completely last night when it aired live. John is up now, so once he starts watching basketball, I'll be back and tell you all about Thursday and Friday.0
-
Good morning all! Thank you so much Debora for the Happy Birthday wishes! It is my big 6-0!
They had a wonderful cake for me at work. It was a chocolate layer cake with strawberry whip cream frosting and fresh strawberries on top. Delicious!!! I also had a Jersey Mike's sub for lunch. We had plans to go to dinner to a Chinese buffet with two couples but we had a really high wind and rain storm and Dan and one of the other guys were too nervous about our homes to be able to enjoy dinner so we decided to postpone dinner until tonight. Dan still took me out to dinner though. We went to a little local Italian restaurant. I got their Italian beef sandwich which is usually really good but it was disappointing this time. The meat was skimpy and chewy. I mentioned it to the waitress but they made no effort to compensate us. Not even a free b-day dessert. Oh well, I am over their Italian beef sandwich and will not order it again. Dan's meatball sandwich was very good and so was the minestrone soup so all is well. At least I didn't have to cook. We watched a hallmark movie called "The Birthday Wish". How apropos! It was really cute!
My best friend since 3rd grade, Grace, who lives in FL has been sending me gifts all week. First she sent me beautiful flowers at work - red tulips and purple iris. Stunning! They were some of my mom's favorites. So nice that she remembered that. Then she sent me a box of little do dads to open such as home made earrings, socks, a bottle of essential oils, etc. Then she sent me a check for $60 to go out to dinner. Crazy woman! She will be turning 60 also in 2 weeks. I don't know how I'm supposed to follow that act!!!
My friend Jami and I are having a girls day out today. We always take each other shopping for our birthdays. We are going to the farmer's market first, then to Ross Dress for less and Steinmart which are both in close proximity to the farmer's market. We'll probably go out to lunch also. Everyone is making me feel very special for my big 60th.
Debora, you are amazing! 2 ball games and a play all in one day! What was the new dish you tried out? Sounds like your sister's b-day was nice. I make a pot of cooked greens every week, usually chard and kale. I sort of steam/sauté it then put it in a container and have some cold every day at lunch. I don't like to heat it in the microwave because I don't want to take the chance that the microwave will destroy some of the nutrients. I really like it and have been doing it for quite some time now. I still haven't gotten tired of it so it must be doing me some good.
Sheryl, yes, the fearless flyer. I bought their chile lime spice but haven't tried it yet. I also bought the éclairs which were fabulous! TJ has some great herbal teas. Very happy to hear that your mom is coming too. I know you'll make it work. Good to have a surgery date.
OK, gotta go - Jami will be here any minute!! No time to proof read even so sorry about any typos!0 -
Hi again,
Isabella, I did not stumble over any typos, you done good!!! ha ha ha
I will back up to Thursday, as I said yesterday, I walked out at 2 pm to leave for my 2:30 blood test and had a flat tire. I rescheduled the blood test to Friday and that gave us an hour before my 3:30 pulmonary appointment. John was a great help in his strength, but I had another epiphany that he doesn't remember how to change a tire. I had to talk us through the process, but I sure needed his help, I couldn't have done it all by myself. We are still a great team.
The pulmonologist has done all that he can do. Bottom line, my lungs are clear and free from any disease, but can only function at 62% due to the paralyzed diaphragm. Unless something new happens, I will not be seeing this doctor again. He has released me for surgery and said there's no problem with anesthesia. We were both pleased with the improvement in one week of vocal exercises, and anticipate that it will get better and better.
Yesterday morning, I got to Toyota by 9 am and was out of there at 10. They repaired the tire and put it back on the car, at no charge. I fully expected to pay, but didn't have to. Yay, Bonus.
In the afternoon, I went to have the blood test, my numbers were good and I'll continue on the same dosage of warfarin. Get checked again in 3 weeks. I'll have to double check exactly what day I stop taking it for the surgery, at least one week prior, maybe longer. Then, I went for a massage. Heaven! Quite a bit different from the massage I got during PT. Back then, they spent about 20 minutes and only on my left arm. Yesterday was an hour session on my entire back and both arms. Semi dark room with soft music, wow, it was great. I bought a Groupon for 3 sessions, so I scheduled the remaining 2 appointments already and plan to go again, paying full price, so I have a massage once a week before surgery. Then will return after I heal and recover from surgery. This is my new favorite thing.
That 3rd module, in a series of 10, plus tonight's 4th module, is all about what to eat for the best cancer fighting diet. Very interesting and helpful. I'm getting a lot of help through many different protocols and figuring out what's best for me.
John is cracking me up. I started a fire in the woodstove this morning and am getting a running commentary on the flame. Constantly, oohs and ahs and "now the flame is in front". "Now, it moved to the back". "Now, it's perfectly symmetrical". What next? I'm on pins and needles.
0 -
Sheryl, you are too funny! Love the "blow by blow" (or should I say glow by glow!
) description of the flames you were getting from John! Is there anything they can do for your paralyzed diaphragm? Hopefully the voice exercises will continue to help. I believe our bodies can heal themselves of many things. Very happy that you are getting a lot of good info on how to get healthier before and after the surgery. Excellent that you are getting regular massages. They are good for you in many ways. Many massage businesses give a discount when you but a package of massages. Sounds like the groupon was a good deal too.
On another note, hope I'm not sounding too bitchy but I really don't like that our new friend in the 5 letter game only uses partial words for others to make sentences from. I can't bring myself to make sentences from her offerings. Sorry, but I had to get that off my chest. I didn't want to say it on the game thread because I don't know who she is and don't want to offend her but wanted to let you know why I haven't been participating there as much...
Well, I'm off to serve the soup we are having for dinner. Have a wonderful week everyone!0 -
Hi everyone, I'm starting this at 9:45 pm so I know it won't get finished tonight but hopefully tomorrow (and it did). To me the week filled up a bit more than I planned but it all worked out. Monday I got things ready for 4-H and went to 4-H in the evening. It was a fun evening with some good talks. We also found that day that our son-in-law's (Matthew) grandfather had died. On top of his dementia, he had recently been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and they didn't do much for it cause he didn't understand about using oxygen. One of his daughters and husband own 7 funeral homes in OK so they brought up the casket and worked with the funeral home here where the service was held.
Tuesday morning I had my check-up with the periodonist. My numbers were better and she didn't bring up surgery - maybe a deep cleaning. She did mention a gum graft on one tooth where the gum has receeded a lot. I didn't get the cost - I know it will be a lot so will put it off as long as possible. Dental stuff is expensive. We then visited the new Sprouts store and used a gift card to eat at Paneras. This was Ralph's first time to eat there so I took the time to explain all he could get before we stepped up to order. We got home in time for me to get the bags for Good News Club and go set-up. Several were gone due to other conflicts but it was a good meeting. We had heart shaped cookies made by a lady in our church who has done them for several years. She is 96 now so one of her daughters helped her but they are always nice - frosted and decorated with chocolate chip, or red hots and some m&ms this year. We spent the evening at home and I was able to get Ralph's hair cut.
Wednesday morning we had our project committee meeting. We went through our storage - not near as much work as it used to be and then planned work and projects for the year as we enjoyed a brunch. We each brought different parts. We had an egg casserole made in the crockpot - very good. There was a delicious fruit salad and my sister had the "bread". She made cinnamon rolls and baked donuts. She can't eat much of it with her diabetes but she still excels in making things like that. I had the drink so took tea, hot chocolate and Sunny D. Ralph had fixed himself a sandwich cause when I got home I had time to change clothes so we could leave for the funeral. Then I did my Friday errands as Friday plans had changed. I was able to do my shopping list Tuesday evening and figure out Sunday dinner so it all worked out. Then in the evening was church. One of the teachers brought the teachers and the kids pretty much turned them down because they weren't soft. I liked them.
Thursday was kind of my day at home. I did take the recycling in in the morning and go to Bible study in the evening but otherwise I "cleaned" the house, washed the sheets, got my bag ready for Friday and whatever else I had time for.
On Tuesday Derek had asked if I could babysit Friday. He wanted to surprise Lindsey and take her out to celebrate the 15th anniversary of their first date (not many do that). So I was to be at their house at 10 am. They went to the town where they met (2 hours away) and got home about 11:15 that night. I just had the youngest to start with, gained the second at 11:30, the next at 3 and the last two after school at 4. We had frozen pizza for supper and then had movie night. This time I put the boys down on time and let the girls finish watching. I put the younger two girls to bed and then the oldest and I played for awhile. She had quite a interesting thing to play - good imagination. Got her to bed and was going through the house and picking things up when she called me cause she had a bloody nose. Took quite some time to get it stopped - finally googled what to do - what I've always done (lay down and let it stop) is not the right way to do it and didn't work with her but we got it stopped for sure about 10 minutes before her parents got home. I made it home by midnight and ended up sleeping in an extra hour Saturday morning.
Saturday I went to Edge at church - a women's brunch with a panel discussion which was excellent. The afternoon I spent baking and "decorating" the cake, made a jello and other things. Ralph was busy doing some geneology stuff which he wanted me to type up in the evening. About 5 we headed to a local church for the church supper and got to visit with some people we don't see often. From it we went to our church to hear how CRU wanted to start a chapter at a nearby college and enjoy some delicious desserts. So many choices and I overdid. When we got home I finished setting up the third table and did the typing for Ralph.
We took two cars to church - partly cause there was someone Ralph wanted to visit with after church and partly cause we picked up two high school whose parents were gone for the weekend so the car was much fuller. I taught our class, the sermon was good and then it was home for dinner. I fixed lasagna and we have a pan left so will eat some and maybe freeze some of it. We celebrated our youngest's birthday - she'll be 30 on Wednesday. The kids had fun playing. Then we went to a visitation for a cousin that passed away - fought lung cancer for 3 years - had just turned 80. We'll go to the funeral tomorrow morning. This evening I've been watching TV - the tivo is getting full - lots of new shows again and slowly doing my list. I'm not going to make any predictions about whether this week will be full or not. Time will tell.
Sheryl, so funny how John loves the stove with others. His play by play is interesting. If there's nothing on TV to watch, he'll have the woodstove to keep him occupied. Glad a walker can help Gayla until she can have the surgery.
Glad you convinced your mom to come. Hope it all works out okay and glad you got a date set so tickets could be purchased. You've done great with getting the house ready.
Glad your aunt's surgery went okay. And great that you are researching things that you want to try to help you with your cancer fight. Great that you can watch the modules later if you can't watch them live. Yay on being able to hold the note longer. Keep singing.
Thankful you can use your teamwork with John to get the tire changed. It's so good he'll let you tell him how to work through things. And very cool that you didn't have to pay for the repair.
Your massage sounds wonderful.
Isabella, your friend went out of her way to make your 60 special. Good luck figuring out what to do for her. She must not have many others to get gifts for. Bummer on the not-so- good sandwich. Did you buy anything when you and Jami were out shopping?
The new dish was potatoes, green beans and smoked sausage in the crockpot. Peeling the potatoes and cutting up the sausage were the hardest part so it was an easy dish. Next time I would drain the green beans - the meat made enough liquid but there was none to start with. Keep doing the greens since you enjoy them. They are good for you. I need to improve my choices.
I know what your meat with the game but it is the 5 letter game - not a word with 5 letters so she's playing it correctly - just not how we were doing it. So come jump back in.
Marcie, are you extra busy? Or is Cisco keeping you on the run?
Today was a cloudy day. It would be great if the clouds brought some rain. Think I'll leave here and head for bed. Have a great week.
0 -
Should have give you the "long" warning again.0
-
Good Morning. I've missed a few days, with watching the cancer video in the mornings, since I miss most of it live the night before, and working on my email update, I wasn't able to get over here before John got up.
Isabella, regarding the 5 letter game, I had the same response to ChrisNels1's letters, but Debora is right, It finally dawned on me that it's 5-letter game and I realized that it doesn't have to be a real word. But, we are very slow to change...I'm used to seeing a 5-letter word, not random letters.
Saturday, I gave John a beard trim, skipped the haircut this time, and he took a shower. I did laundry and we had a nice clean bed Saturday night. Felt good again.
Debora, wow, you had a busier than normal week. Wednesday evening, a teacher brought in something that you liked that was not soft...what was it? That was the one subject that was missing. I'm picturing crispy, crunchy, something... cookies maybe?
Last trip to Trader Joe's, I bought a big soft pretzel. I liked it, but John prefers the little crunchy ones instead.
Marcie, we miss you. Hope all is OK and you are simply busy. Hope to hear from you soon.
Last night's video is "How To Eliminate Stress & Heal Your Heart", I can't wait to go watch it, this should be fascinating. I mentioned in my email update that the on-going battle with the development behind us is more stressful than anything else in my life. If I can find a solution for that, I may heal completely. But, I feel that some stress is beyond our control.
Also, in the video about detoxing, he said "separate yourself from toxic people and situations". My mind immediately went to Mom, she is toxic, never joyful, but it's impossible to separate from her.
Norma received a text from Lara that our aunt is doing quite well. She said that Aunt Esther is much better. She is recognizing things; remembering, and answering with half sentences that make sense. Lara is able to understand what Esther is trying to say even if she does not finish the sentence. With more therapy and time Esther should get better. Lara did not say where Esther is located right now, but she assumes that it is at the Rehab Center.
I plan to go to Bible study today and then run errands. I wasn't going to start a fire this morning since I'll be gone, but it's chilly and I'm changing my mind. I think I will get the woodstove going and it can burn out while I'm gone and I'll start it up again when I get home. I don't leave for 5 hours, so might as well be warm and cozy for that amount of time.0 -
Good morning, as usual the week is speeding past. We did get around an inch of rain Sunday evening. So nice even with having to drive on muddy roads. Monday we got up and went to cousin's funeral. Nice service and enjoyed visiting with a young lady planning to go to Ecuador in March to work on a water project. The rest of the day was spent at home - enjoyed that a lot.
Tuesday I had the morning at home. Felt like I got some things taken care of but there are always more things to add the next day. Tuesday afternoon was Good News Club - about 20 were there - story of Gideon. I got home, we quickly ate and then went to Taryn's concert. Along with the honors choir (4th-6th grade), the 5th grade chimes choir did several numbers - so it lasted about 30 minutes but was done very well. We visited a bit afterwards and then headed home. Almost hit a skunk in our last three miles - there sure seem to be a lot of them roaming around this year.
Wednesday we worked on the Echoes - made it through two years - have two years that we know about to hole punch yet and then we are going to spend a day at the historical library doublechecking what they have so we can compare to what we have. Then it's going through from the beginning and making sure each page is labeled by month and year. Then it's covers for the notebooks, everything in nicely and the project will be done - except to add the current year every January. And now that the month and date are put on them, it will just be laminating, hole punching and adding to the notebooks. Wow, that makes it look like there's an end to the project but I still see it as several years down the road.
Again, I had the afternoon at home (I could get used to this) and church in the evening. I took a package of cookies in case the one little girl I go to class with forgot and she did but they liked the cookies I took. Left right after church and got home and worked on my list for today. And, drrrrrrrum roll, I have the entire day at home. I was moving along pretty well but will get done what gets done. I have a load of laundry going, have cleaned the back stool, and other small things. It seems like I do things but not worth listing. Whatever it is stuff that evidently I think needs to be done. Ha. Tonight is a baby shower. We do showers for first time babies born to families attending our church. This is the fifth child (although she had some miscarriages) but they lived elsewhere when the others were born. In fact their oldest is a senior in high school. (unlike the family that just twins and the oldest is in 4th grade and the twins are numbers 6 & 7). It will be a fun evening and make up for not having Bible study.
Sheryl, yay on the beard trim and shower. There will always be stress in our lives - some good stress and some bad stress (your water battle is the bad kind) - I think it is probably more of how we handle it. The same with detoxing. Not always easy to handle correctly though. Nice that you and Norma have each other to talk too. This series sounds like it has been very helpful for you. Enjoy Bible study and the fire - yes, stay warm - is John willing to leave the stove along when you are gone?
Off to keep plugging away on things. The dryer is done so can go fold he sheets and towels. More leftover lasagna for lunch so easy fixings. Enjoy your day.
0 -
Wow, it sure is quiet around here, no one popping in for days.
Good Morning, it's actually quiet here at home too. I went to Bible study Tuesday and brought home Subway sandwiches for late lunch/early dinner. Yesterday was nice outside so John and I did a few outdoor chores that have been waiting for us for months.
I am behind in the cancer videos, watching them live at 6pm is no longer working out for me. I try to watch them in the mornings, but I get interrupted then also. So, I have purchased the program so I can watch it at my convenience, plus watch them over and over again. It takes several times to get all the info.
I had a long phone conversation with Mom yesterday. She's coming up with more excuses for not making this trip. I thought that once the tickets were purchased, it's a done deal. But, she may very well just waste those $$$$ on the tickets and stay home. If she gives us more grief about it, I'll just tell her to stay home, why make us ALL miserable. It's too bad, but that's the way it is.
Isabella, you don't know how right you are about "glow by glow". I am now getting commentary on the colors, the flame is orange...why did it just change to red?...Now, it's yellow. Quite entertaining, if it doesn't make you want to blow your brains out!!!0 -
Hi everyone.
I really got behind here! I've taken the last couple days reading all of your posts that I've missed. Lots going on in your lives!
We finally caught a break from the rain. More is coming next week, but I'm appreciating the dry weather right now (and so is Cisco!).
The rivers around here are sure full. After so many years of drought, it's a sight to see.
Sheryl, no, we weren't affected by the Lake Oroville dam breach. Some staff, and the families of some staff in my office were though. They were part of the evacuation of nearly 190,000 people, but all turned out well for them. Scary stuff.
Dad had a guy come to the house last weekend to quote us a price for replacing all the doors and closet doors inside the house. Looks like he's going for it and they will most likely do this sometime in the next month. Dad is definitely on a home improvement kick right now. The doors are looking sad, so it's needed, but it will be costly.
No a whole lot going on in my life right now. Just same-o get up, go to work, come home, etc. I think I'm in a rut. Ha.
I'm super-tired this morning. I woke up dragging and my eyelids feel like lead. I'm definitely consuming coffee this morning! I'm not looking forward to staring at the monitor all day today here at work. Maybe I'll have more energy as the day goes on.
Isabella, belated Happy 60th Birthday wishes to you! That cake they got you sounds so yummy! I'm like Debora with regards to the 5-letter game. There's really no rule that the 5-letters needs to make up a word. It's just what we usually do (I think it makes it funner to make it a word and not just random letters). That would irritate me too when they didn't compensate you for the sub-par sandwich or at least offer you a Birthday dessert.
Sheryl, so glad to hear the surgery is scheduled, and that Norma and your Mom will be coming. I hope all goes well with your Mom when she is there. I was surprised to hear she agreed to come. I had to laugh when you said you had spices in your cabinets dated back to 2014. I have some going back as far as 2000, and one container of cinnamon that my Grandma sent us long before she died in 1994. I definitely need purge. That series you've been watching sounds interesting. Sounds like John is starting to appreciate the new wood stove...at least around others. Cool that Toyota didn't charge you for repairing the tire.
Debora, yes, my new washer and dryer chime a little song when the cycle is complete. Wow that that store had to close because they didn't have anyone to run it. I've never run across that before. You and Ralph are so great about attending your Grandkids games and events. I never had that as a kid as we lived so far away from my Grandparents. Your's are fortunate to have you!
It's going to be a busy work day, so I'd better close and get back to it. Have a lovely day everyone.0 -
Good Morning, Oh Marcie, so good to see you. Yay, glad all is well.
First off...Mom is not coming after all. Long story short, she said she would come because she "didn't want to hurt our feelings". After all these years, she still doesn't know me, I don't get my feelings hurt. I would rather people be honest with me. Anyway, instead of being honest and just saying "No thanks, I don't want to come", she came up with one lame excuse after another and it became a game for me, I could shoot down all of her stupid excuses. She finally got her doctor to "advise" against a long trip like this. Now, she has a scape goat, the doctor said she shouldn't go anywhere. She is just going to stay in her apartment and vegetate and dwindle away. Norma called me last night and after spending Thursday and yesterday with Mom, Norma predicts that Mom will be in a wheelchair within 6 months. Mom can barely shuffle around using the walker and the less she does the weaker she gets. It's so sad. Norma tries so hard, but just can't please her. I pray that this doesn't "break" Norma.
I had a consultation with the plastic surgeon yesterday. Very interesting information, I'm apparently a special case. Usually, the mastectomy is done and a week or two later is the reconstruction surgery. They are going to do it at the same time only because my oncology surgeon is calling the shots and she doesn't want me under anesthesia more than once. I also found out that I will be having more radiation after surgery. I was not aware of that until yesterday. Not a problem, I'll do what they think is best, it's just that when I was asked about radiation, I said I wasn't having any more and they had to grab the report and show me that I was. I have 2 more pre-op appointments and also will see my oncologist again before surgery. I still need to be told when to stop taking the blood thinners before surgery.
Marcie, I'm laughing at the cinnamon in your cabinet, does it have any aroma left to it? When I had Tammy, the care-giver/cook, come in after chemo, she cleaned out my cabinet and replenished everything in 2014. I'm told that spices should be changed out every year.
Well, John is up and I better go.0 -
Hi ladies, You ladies are right about the 5 letter game. I thought it was a rule that it had to be an actual word but I guess that is just what we were used to. But I like it that way! Okay, I'm over myself - I'll put my big girl panties on and participate. What a great birthday week I've had! We had a wonderful time at the group dinner at the Chinese buffet on Saturday night. Then we all came back here and played dominoes and ate home made brownies that I made for the occasion on Thursday evening, Everyone raved about them (Ghirardelli's mix from Costco).
I took the day off yesterday for my birthday since I couldn't take my actually birthday off because my boss was out of town. Dan took me to the Angelika Theater which is a luxury movie theater that has big comfy recliners for seats. It was really nice and the early showing is half price so it was only $8.50 each. We saw the movie "Hidden Figures". It is about the black women who helped with the space program. It was a fabulous movie on so many levels, the historic aspect, the great acting, the story lines - an absolute MUST SEE! We went to a burger joint called Grub Burger Bar afterward for lunch. The burgers were delicious! The one I had was called the guacapotle burger. Needless to say, we didn't need to eat dinner. We just had some cheese and crackers later in the evening and a piece of chocolate he bought me from Sees Candy. It was such a wonderful day.
Today, my friend Jackie who couldn't come to the group dinner took me to Little Italy downtown where we strolled around the farmer's market there then she treated me to lunch. It was expensive!! We had such a good time! We hadn't spent "girl time" together, just the 2 of us without husbands, in a very long time. This evening Dan is taking me to dinner to a really nice Italian restaurant called Café Luna (I guess it is an Italian kinda day!). I am really looking forward to it.
Debora, so nice that you actually have a few days with time at home this week. I had a skin graft for receding gums for my two lower front teeth a few years ago. I don't really remember but I think it still cost several hundred dollars after the insurance paid. They took the graft from the roof of my mouth so there was a week or two of recovery time. What new shows are you watching? We started watching one called Powerless. It is quirky but we'll watch a few more and see where it goes. When Jami and I went shopping last Saturday I ended up with a cute new top from her and I bought myself a new bra.
Sheryl, Crazy that your mom agreed to come because she didn't want to upset you. It is better that she stay home if she is going to make everyone miserable. You don't need that right now. This way you and Norma can have plenty of great sister time. It is a real shame that she is declining and will need a wheelchair soon. Norma can't do much about it though. Dan and I discovered the BIG soft pretzel at Trader Joe's too and he loves soft pretzels so I moisten it, sprinkle a little salt on it then heat it in the oven for 5 minutes or so. We really enjoy it. I'm curious, what are some of the foods the cancer program is telling you to eat to fight cancer? Good that it was nice enough for you and John to get outside and do some chores. I bet he was really happy about that. And clean sheet night too! Yay!
Marcie, so good to "see" you! Thanks so much for the happy birthday wishes. Glad that you weren't affected by the Oroville Dam situation.
Well, gotta go change for dinner. Have a wonderful week everyone!0 -
Good evening. I'm winding the day down so have some time till I head for bed. This has been a good week with time at home - and I can't give you a list of great things I did but I feel like I got some things taken care of. Thursday was at home for all day. In the evening I went to a baby shower. They really did up the decorations - fireplace mantle, centerpieces - birds nest with a bird perched on the side, tablecloths on the tables and each place had a teacup and saucer at it - lots of different ones (one of the hostesses has a collection). The devotions was good, refreshments yummy - 3 different quick breads, fruit and cheese, and vanilla chi tea. Our table got busy visiting so missed seeing a lot of the gifts opened which is a drawback for this set-up but it was a fun evening.
We went from a few days of 60 and 70 for highs and then Friday it barely got over 34. Today it made it to 42. It is February and the cold is more normal but it sure feels cold after the warmth.
Friday morning was the usual errands. We took some donations from our church to the local pregnancy center and got a tour of the place but otherwise it was the regular stops. We haven't been able to find a marked down sub at Walmart for the last two weeks so I'm starting to try and have something in mind to eat when we get home. We finished up the lasagna this time. In the afternoon, I finished straightening the house - sure wish I would have done the basement sooner. It didn't take that long and makes me feel a lot better when I walk down the steps. I fixed our pizza and salads for supper.
This morning I got busy and did the food stuff for Sunday cause I was maybe going to go with Lori to watch Thomas play in his school state equivalency. They ended up being able to ride in the van that Jim was driving for the school so I stayed home. It would have been fun but I got things done here too. I picked out a new dish which is roasted so not sure how it will work with the potatoes since they will be in the oven a couple of hours before they start cooking. I hope they won't turn dark. Time will tell. This evening Ralph realized we forgot to go to a poultry sale last night so now have to wait another month. I'll write it down this time. I cut up a pineapple for dinner and then made a broccoli/raisin salad for the fellowship meal we're going to for the evening.
Heard from brother with parkinsons. His kids helped him move into an assisted living place this weekend. He falls to easily and his place had stairs which he can't do. He was like my dad and could about fix anything and was always good about coming out here and that all came to a screeching stop. And he has a kind that is untreatable and progresses quickly. He wonders if he got it from exposure to agent orange.
Sheryl, glad you made it to Bible study. Are all the sub sandwiches $6 this month? They are here. We don't eat there like we used to but they are good. Definitely easy to transport. Buying the videos sounds like a smart idea so you don't have to feel rushed going through them.
Marcie, so good to hear from you. Replacing all the doors - that a big project but never thought about doing it. We've replaced the front door twice I think but never thought about replacing any others. Tired and staring at a monitor. Did you sneak a nap in on your lunch hour? So good to hear your drought is really past. We're not as dry as you were, but could use some rain again.
My spices are not up to date either but I keep using them - probably not as potent but I hate to toss our containers that still have a lot in them.
It was only the pharmacy part of the store that was closed - just for part of the one day. It was open when I had to go this week. Not the usual thing for a store.
Sheryl, sorry your mom isn't coming since Norma put out the money but if she doesn't want to you'll have a better time without her. Norma can release her frustrations in person. Anything still going on with her and Simon? I would want to go just to be with my daughter but maybe I'll be different when I'm her age. She's making her choices and I'm with you, I hope Norma can let this stuff roll off her back. If she ends up in a wheelchair, she'll need more care too.
Interesting that they told you they don't normally do the reconstruction at the same time cause the person here just had them both at the same time. Glad you can do it at once. Takes a lot of appointments to get everything lined up.
I've heard that about spices too - I sometimes think some of those things are said just to help the sales - spices are not cheap and some aren't used a lot.
Isabella, what a fun birthday week. Lots of good eating and fun activities. Glad you were able to enjoy so many different things. So wonderful when everyone shows you how special you are.
If you had that surgery a few years ago, it's probably more and I won't have any insurance help for that. The roof of the mouth was where she said she would take it from too. I have a chart and have been putting $100 a month toward dental and it spends more time in the hole than gaining.
Remembered today about some sour milk in the fridge I have so will look for a cookie recipe and use it for that. I will try and bake cookies for Good News Club. I haven't had very many volunteers for cookies but don't want to serve boughten ones every week - although some of the kids eat those the best.
I'll leave you guys and surf the web for a recipe to use. Have a good Sunday. I plan to.
0 -
Good Morning. John messed with the woodstove yesterday, he was being so good about letting me do it, although he continued to ask questions, but had me handle the operations. He wants to know why it flames up at the top, sometimes not even touching the wood. Also, why are there tubes with holes, different sized holes, up along the top, inside the burning chamber part. The only thing I can figure is that these new woodstoves are EPA approved and are suppose to burn all gasses before releasing up into the chimney and on out into the sky, so the tubes at the top of the stove, continue the burn and that's why he sees some fire that's not touching the wood. Naturally, it makes no sense to him, so he can't comprehend and he asks again and again. I tell him it's like a catalytic converter on a car and we're stuck with it because the government says we have to have it whether we understand it or not. There I go again, blaming the government, but I think that's true. He swears at the government regarding seat belts every time we get in the car. He has such a problem getting that fastened.
Isabella, Chris (Chris Beat Cancer videos) says eat only fruits and veggies. The first 90 days it should ALL be raw. Gradually can add in some cooked veggies. No animal products or dairy and no restaurants for 2 years. Then can add in a few, what he calls, "recreational meals" once in a great while. If calories are greatly needed, can have oatmeal for breakfast and there are nuts and seeds allowed. A basic plant-based diet and EVERYTHING Organic. He juices, A LOT. I will try using my Vitamix, I don't want to invest in a juicer. And, his juicer is top of the line, really juices everything, so it's quite spendy. Also, he purifies and filters water and the system he uses is about $300.00. I understand that there are impurities in our water, but I'm not willing to spend that money right now either. I can certainly eat more fruits and veggies and cut back on meat, but probably will not give it up totally. I already switched from regular milk to almond milk from the cleanse, so that helps, but I do still purchase quite a bit of processed food stuff for the ease of it. For breakfast, I've been having Trader Joe's Organic Coconut Almond Chia Cereal with almond milk, very tasty and easy, but it's processed and has 7g of sugar. I need to go back to my steel cut oats that I made in my early NM days, although, according to Chris, I need to find Organic steel cut oats. I doubt that the bulk oats at Winco are Organic.
He stresses to follow a Biblical diet, which Ty and others stress also. Years ago, my friend JoAnn gave me Jordan Rubin's book, The Maker's Diet. At the time, I sort of poo-pood it. The content was good, but the back section of the book, it was marketing supplements and enzymes that he wanted the reader to purchase. After hearing him at Ty's The Truth About Cancer on-line conference, I went back and read the book again. I understand more now, but I still won't be purchasing all the supplements that he pushes. I find it interesting that all these Organic and Natural guys are pushing so many extra supplements for sale. So, I'm still a bit skeptical, but try to glean as much good information as possible.
Quite some time back, Norma had decided to cut off the relationship with Simeon. She did it in person and he was able to talk her out of it. Last week, she did it through email and they texted and came to the agreement that they will not be seeing each other anymore. He keeps saying that he loves her, but doesn't change any of his behavior or take care of his health and medical issues. She says that she cares for him, but can only love him if he changes. She said that he deserves someone who will love him Unconditionally, and since she can't, they both need to move on. He knew that and accepted it rather well. When she told me she was sending him this particular email, that it's been on her mind for awhile and she couldn't sleep all that night and realized that this HAS to be done for her sanity, I said that I would be praying all day that he will respond and not leave her hanging. She called me back in an hour with his response. He knew this was coming and it was not a surprise.
When Norma retires, she wants to do some missionary work and travel, like what she had planned to do with her husband. Even with Don passing, Norma wants to continue with their dream and I told her that somewhere, sometime in her future travels, God has the perfect mate for her doing the same thing and they will meet up.
Well, I better go log my food for yesterday. Someone has already put in the Blue Apron meals in the database, so that sure makes it easy for me. Thank you whoever you are who did that!
0 -
Hello.
I've been going out for meals too much lately. Need to pull back on that. Friday for lunch a group of us went out to welcome a new attorney to the office (I had tomato soup and a small salad, and everyone else had large 1500 calorie salads...they think they are eating healthy, but not so much). Friday for dinner Dad and I went out and checked out a new restaurant that just opened called the Bear Creek Diner. Since it just opened, it was super busy, but we only had a 20 minute wait. I wasn't overly impressed by the place, but Dad enjoyed his pot roast meal. Saturday morning while I was out and about running errands, I stopped by one of Dad's hole-in-the-wall breakfast joints and had an omelette. They are always real busy on the weekends, but I managed to get the only available table. Then Saturday night Dad and I went out for dinner at a new Vietnamese place. It was weird. You go up to the counter and tell them what protein you want (salmon, beef, chicken, tofu, etc.) and whether you want your meal in a roll, in a bowl, or in the form of soup. We got ours in a bowl. They give you a bowl filled with rice noodles, lettuce, and your chosen protein. Then you pour their warmed hoisin sauce over it all. It was pretty good, but not much choices. Dad definitely won't be going back, he's not much into gimicky places. I may pop in for lunch now and them.
And...a group of us at work went out to The Old Spaghetti Factory (I had my usual, Chicken Marsala). I think that will be it for going out for a while.
My old boss (the one with Lupus) who retired a few years ago, and then came back to work part time as a retired annuitant, has decided to hang it up for good now. She goes into full retirement in a couple days at the end of this month. I'm sure going to miss her. I haven't worked with her while she's been back, but it was nice having her here. She needs to retire though for her health (and sanity!).
I sure gave the new washer and dryer a work out this weekend. In addition to the regular loads, I washed bathroom rugs, blankets, and garage towels. So far so good.
Got my car washed on Saturday and yesterday I washed the inside of the windows really good. Boy were they ever dirty!
While I was running around on Saturday, I popped into this Russian deli/market that I've driven by a thousand times. Interesting place. The foods in their deli were very weird looking, and in some cases quite gross looking! I did buy a small container of their eggplant salad and some Lavash bread. Really good. I'll have to eat it all as Dad won't go near the stuff. One thing about international stores like this. They don't seem overly concerned about healthy food options.
My pot of something this week is white beans. They turned out really good. I forgot to soak them overnight, so I did a quick soak on the stove.
Dad has decided to continue to attend the Veteran's of Foreign Wars monthly meetings. His next one is tomorrow night. On Saturday they invited the members to attend a small ceremony where they were hanging up a sign (not sure about what) in one of the shopping complexes. Dad stopped by, but it looks like he was the only one. Said it was just him and the officer's performing the ceremony. Kind of sad.
Isabella, wow, lots of celebrating your birthday! Sounds like you had a fun week!
Sheryl, so sorry to hear Mom won't be coming, but it's probably for the best. You'll be needing rest and minimal aggravation! Also sorry to hear she's headed for a wheelchair.
Debora, I hope your brother assimilates well in assisted living. Must be hard on him to make that change.0 -
Good Morning. I got John out of the house yesterday. Yay! I had a $6.00 off coupon for Staples that would have expired today, so we went to the office supply and bought a new pad for under the computer chair. The one we've had for several years is cracked and hard to roll on now. I enticed John into going by saying we could also stop at Harbor Freight. We did, took our list of a few things to buy and spent time walking the aisles and looking at tools. I know everything in that store, been there so many times, but if that's what it takes to get John out, I'll do it. We ate out for lunch, a new BBQ place by Staples. Yummy, but not as good as our favorite BBQ hole in the wall place closer to home, and more expensive, so probably won't go there again. Also, BBQ is something that I should NOT have according to the cancer videos. Not only the sugar content of the sauce, but the charring/smoking of the meat is supposedly cancer causing. Even knowing all that, I succumbed to my cravings. I have no self discipline at all.
Marcie, your adventures in eating out sound exciting and fun, but I know what you mean about curbing it.
It's hard when a special co-worker leaves, even if you didn't work closely with her anymore, just seeing her in the office is special. I hope retirement helps her health. Is she someone close enough that you would meet up with her for lunch or something outside of the office?
Bible study is cancelled today, the leader is out of town this week. I called Carol to see if she wants to go to lunch, but she had other plans already. She asked what other days I'm available...Mondays and Fridays for the next 2 weeks, so she'll check her calendar and call me back. With Tuesday doctor appointments and surgery, I won't make it to Bible study at all in March. I think I'll ask her if she's available to be at the hospital on the Tuesday for surgery, keep Norma company for a little while. I'm pretty sure that John will want to stay home, he'd be more comfortable home than sitting around a hospital waiting room. Norma will most likely bring a book to read, but I think visiting with Carol would be nice too.
I'll put on a fresh pot of coffee and enjoy my morning. Lots of emails to read and catch up on those last 2 cancer videos.0 -
Good morning everyone.
It's such a pretty morning this morning. Chilly, but clear blue sky and lots of sunshine. The trees around are budding out too. I love this time of year. No rain on the horizon, so that's good. Who'd of ever thought I'd say that?!
Yesterday Dad got an email from the American Legion. They were having a funeral for a homeless Vietnam Vet who just passed away and asked their members to attend if they could. Dad drove out there and said there were so many people there that there was just no place to park, so he came on home.
Last night for dinner I warmed up my leftovers from The Spaghetti Factory. I forgot something in the kitchen and when I got back to my plate a dog, who shall remain nameless was scarfing down my dinner. Luckily I caught him before he ate too many mouthfuls, but that was a first! My fault for leaving it unattended, but sheesh. After enjoying my chicken and broccoli, he wasn't too excited about eating his dog food for dinner.
Last night I was watching an episode of Long Lost Family (host attempts to find missing relatives for people, usually involves kids/babies who were adopted and are trying to find their birth parents, or the birth parents trying to find them). I was just weeping at the end when the Mom, who had been forced to give her baby up for adoption because she was too young, and had been searching for her son for 30 years, was reunited with him. Her son thought he had been forgotten, but she and her subsequent children had celebrated his Birthday every year and considered him part of the family. I don't know what's wrong with me. I've never been this much of a crier!
I'm going to be kind to myself today and eat lightly. Been eating too much lately. I had some pomegranate Kefir earlier this morning and a hardboiled egg for breakfast, will have a vanilla Glucerna shake and a few almonds for mid-morning snack, a salad for lunch, and a bowl of my white beans for dinner. That's the plan, now let's see if I stick with it!
Sheryl, we have a Harbor Freight around here too, but I've never been. I need to check them out one of these days. Nice that you could get John to join you on your outing yesterday. It's always fun checking out a new restaurant. Are you still ordering Blue Apron meals? That would be nice if Carol can come visit with Norma at the hospital.
Well, I guess it's time to get back to work. Have a great day!0 -
Good morning all.
Another pretty day here. Yay.
I did pretty well yesterday with my eating plan. Will go for it again today.
Last night I went to Amazon to purchase a new rechargeable shaver (mine is just about kaput) and some liquid makeup, and then made the mistake of perusing the "gadgets" section on the website. I wound up buying a bunch of gadgety stuff:- Sink Scrubber with Holder
- Stainless Steel Onion (veggie) Holder/Slicer
- Bottle Opener
- Erupting Volcano (Microwave Cleaner)
- Soap Dispensing Palm Dish Washing Brush
- Silicone Tea Bag Holder
- Foldable Funnel
Dad enjoyed his American Legion meeting last night...and I enjoyed having the house to myself for a couple hours! He's not used to Dad being out of the house after dark.
When I got to work this morning and parked my car in the parking garage in the basement I found both sets of elevators down there are out of order. No choice but to take the stairs. I felt so bad for the unfit people. One lady with a very bad back was really struggling to get upstairs. She had to take one step at a time and rest in between steps. This is the first time since we moved into this building in 1995 that so many of the elevators are out of order at the same time. The building is showing it's age I guess. Not sure how customers are going to get up to our floor (we are on the third floor) today, at least those that can't take the stairs. I did see the elevator repair guys here, so hopefully they get this resolved quickly.
Have a great day everyone! Bye.
0 -
Good morning. It's sure quiet in here this week.
I spent a good amount of time last night crawling around on the kitchen and dining room floors looking for a pill Dad said he dropped but couldn't find. It was only a fish oil pill, so if Cisco got it I'm sure it wouldn't hurt him, but I still wanted to look. Never did find the thing. Either Cisco got it, or it's still on the floor somewhere. I always worry that one day Dad will drop one of his pills that will hurt the animals. I know Simon wouldn't bother with them, but you never know with that dog of mine. I suspect he either ate the fish oil pill or stashed it was for a rainy day!
Yesterday marked Cisco's 5th birthday. We got him when he was 1 1/2 years old, so we've had him 3 1/2 years now. Seems like we've had him a lot longer than that!
Our perfect weather streak continues. I think I'll go for along walk at lunchtime today. It should be pushing 60 degrees by then.
I nearly got in a crash on the drive in to work this morning. A woman in the car to my right decided to merge into my lane and didn't wait until she had room to move over. Her rear end and my front end came within a couple inches of colliding. I'm not one to honk at someone out of anger (I figure once the deed is done, honking won't help anything), but I did give her a honk.
The first round of my kitchen gadget orders came in yesterday. I got the bottle opener, the microwave cleaner, and the soap dispensing dish scrubber. The bottle opener came in a three pack and I'm keeping one of them at work to use on stubborn bottle caps.
Well, I hope you all are doing well this week. Have a great day!
0 -
Good Morning. This week flew by. I did more stuff at home on Tuesday, can't even remember what. Wednesday was speech therapy. I kind of had a combination of Marcie's Tuesday/Wednesday...The office is on the second floor and they are working on the elevators, so last time I took the stairs. I had time to catch my breath sitting in the waiting room. But, I encountered a big accident on the way and sat in traffic which made me late. Emergency vehicles were there already and more coming. Looked like 5 cars involved, at least that's how many I counted that were all smashed up. By the time I got to my session, I was totally out of breath and anxious. I hate being late to anything. Didn't show as much improvement as I had hoped. The therapist said my upper register singing voice has improved, but she's disappointed that it hasn't transitioned into my talking voice. She asked me to try to talk higher, but that doesn't work out well at all. I sounded like Marilyn Monroe, high and breathy (and stupid). I have more exercises to add into the routine that are kind of tongue twisters that I speak and not sing.
Marcie, I guess Cisco decided he deserved a people food treat. Knew he should get it while the getting is good, it was NOT going to be offered to him.
Yes, I'm still getting Blue Apron, a delivery every Wednesday. This week we got Smoky Pork Burgers with Roasted Vegetables, Chicken Yakiniku with Carrots, Bok Choy and Garlic Rice, (the picture shows a chicken breast, so Yakiniku is the sauce/seasoning) and Tangelo & Honey-Glazed Salmon with Farro and Apple. Yesterday we had the last meal from last week, Tempura Cod with Thai-style Vegetable Salad & Jasmine Rice. The 3 meals always consist of a beef or pork, a chicken and a fish. I'm meeting Carol for lunch today, so I'll probably bring home a subway sandwich for John and start cooking again tomorrow.
Oh, tv programs like that always make me cry also. I can cry at the drop of a hat and do more crying in front of the tv than anywhere else. Whether it's happy or sad, I'll have tears.
We just had the wettest February on record, 10.3" and our ground proves it, it's a swamp out there. Now I'm afraid that when I complain about the drainage, they'll just say "well, this was an especially wet winter", not realizing that it's an ongoing problem for many, many seasons.
The weatherman says that we will not be having any more freezing weather, so maybe this weekend, I'll turn the outside water back on and "assess the damage". See what may need repair and what's working. I need to have everything back in working order before I have surgery. I know that John will not want to carry buckets of water out to the animals. And, the big pool is desperately in need of draining, cleaning and refilling with fresh clean water. It's disgusting out there.
On that note, I'll get my coffee...
0 -
Hi all, a friend from bible study named Sara and I went to the local farmer's market this morning. She bought a bunch of essential oils and I bought some wonderful fresh salmon which Dan and I had for dinner tonight. It was absolutely delicious! SO fresh! Sara and I went to lunch afterward to an Indian buffet. It was really tasty but of course, I over ate. Good thing we had a relatively light dinner. We had a really nice time together.
So Dan and I recorded this new show called "the good fight". It has several of the cast members from "The Good Wife" especially Christine Baranski. The show was great! Gripping right from the very first minute. We were really excited to continue to watch it. Then we found out that the rest of the episodes would only be aired on CBS Access which you have to pay a monthly fee to watch their shows. It may be only on line also. Boy were we mad!!! Have any off you heard of this?!
I have cleared out my really old spices. I kept a couple that were kind of old but that you don't use that often. Most of my herbs and spices I use regularly (approx. 8 or 10) are current and organic. They were having a 40% off sale so it worked out.
Debora, I really love that broccoli and raisin salad. Interesting that you used milk that had gone sour to make cookies. I'd never heard of being able to do that. Is it kinda like using buttermilk? There is a very new technique that is just starting to be used for receding gums. the Dr. who did my graft is now offering this new technique. I saw a video of it and it seems pretty interesting. It is called the pinhole technique. Here is a little blurb about it:
"As the latest development in gum recession treatment, the pinhole technique is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that restores your gum line, covering exposed roots and alleviating symptoms immediately. The pinhole technique does not require grafting gum tissue from the roof of your mouth. Instead, the gum tissue above or below your teeth is pulled down gently. Patients experience little to no discomfort or downtime, returning to normal the day after surgery."
I don't know if they offer it where you are or how much it costs but it might be worth checking into.
Sheryl, good idea to purchase the videos. This way you'll have them to refer back to. I agree, I just couldn't get into the whole juicing thing. At least not at this stage of my life. That is why I really enjoy the green shakes in my nutrabullet. It is cheaper and easier and I still feel like I get a lot of great benefit from it. Glad that Norma and Simeon got things resolved even if it didn't result in their staying together. Closure is good. Cool that the blue apron is in the data base. Sure makes things easier. Good idea to see if Carol can come to the hospital and hang with Norma. How was your lunch with Carol?
Marcie, we've been eating out too much lately too and are looking forward to eating less. It is amazing how our bodies feel it so much now when we eat out. That wiley dog of yours - gotta watch'em every minute! Maybe he thought it was a b-day treat! Happy birthday Cisco! Nice that you got your windows clean. Ours are LONG over due! It is so much fun to get new gadgets and doo-dads. How do you like them so far? You have a birthday coming up too - this Wednesday right? Happy birthday! Do you have any plans?
Well, I'd better close and go join my hubby for our Saturday recorded movie. Have a wonderful week ladies!0 -
Good Morning. Marcie, I checked out all your new gadgets and now, Amazon is throwing them up on every site I look at, trying to tempt me to buy them. ha ha ha, I guess they have a great marketing strategy, but it sure is annoying. I'll check something out and then I have to look at it everywhere until I check out something else new.
Isabella, I saw the tv ads for "The Good Fight", but I don't recall them saying it was only the one episode. But then, I didn't pay close attention because I hadn't planned to watch it, I did not follow "The Good Wife" after a few episodes back in the first season. How tricky of them to lure you in and then slap a price tag on it. Is that similar to a "bait and switch"?
My day out Friday was wonderful, great visit with Carol. We went to our favorite spot (one of 3 Kitchen Table Cafes). I drove over to the one by her house this time, there's also one between us, so we usually meet there so we both drive about the same miles, and there's one by my oncology office, a little further drive for Carol, but it's convenient if we meet after an appointment. Anyway, this time I asked to meet by her house because I wanted to stop by Chuck's Produce on my way home. I loaded up on organic fruits and veggies.
I dumped on Carol about Mom, she's very sympathetic because she had problems with her Mom too. Although, her Mom had dementia, my Mom is just sad and lonely and miserable. When I talked to Mom yesterday, she was her usual Eyore self, feel sorry for me. I asked her if she planned to call Uncle Paul and find out how Esther is doing. They had a history of a weekly phone call, Esther would call Mom every Sunday afternoon, but do you think Mom would reciprocate? No, she told me she has a hard time talking to her brother, so she'll wait and get information from either me or Norma. How selfish, that she won't call herself and show an interest. Every time she does or says things like that, it shocks me.
She started to pity me about the upcoming surgery, I told her that my trust is in the Lord and I'm optimistic that all will go well. I will be up and active right away. The doctor told me to walk, lots and lots of walking. Mom said that she should walk more and I jumped on that...YES, YOU SHOULD WALK, lots and lots of walking!!!!!! No response.
By the way, Esther is doing extremely well. Praise the Lord. Lara said that she's speaking in sentences and making sense and initiating conversation. Her balance is still a bit wobbly, but much better. They will bring her home soon and hire an in-home care giver for awhile. Uncle Paul needs help too and we all told Lara NOT to quit her job and try to take care of them herself. Uncle Paul has enough money to hire someone. Lara needs to keep her own life and sanity.
I hear John getting up, so I'll close for now.0 -
It happened again. The week zoomed past. Sunday (a week ago) was good. We had 2 visitors in our class who did fine. The roasted vegetables and chicken were good. Everyone headed home shortly after we ate so had a quiet afternoon and then we went to our fellowship meal. Good food, good visiting - lots of fun.
Monday was mostly at home. Alan did ask if I could go in and pick up two of the kids. Two had appointments. They have been picking them up after school so they have more time at home. We barely got back to our house and Katie was here to get them.
Have to tell you my cookie story. I found a recipe for a cookie that used sour milk and decided to make it a pan cookie but I figured the recipe was for a 13x9 and I wanted to use a 15x10 so I did the recipe 1 and 1/2. I knew it was too think when I put it in the pan but was running out of time. It wasn't done when I needed to go get the kids so left it in the oven but turned it off. Still not done when we got back so turned the oven back on. It got done but more the height of cake. I cut it into small pieces since it was so thick. I gave them one to start with and said they could come back for another. Of the younger kids just a few did but all of the older boys took two and said it was really good. Only had 4 pieces to bring home so it all worked out but I wasn't sure for awhile.
Tuesday was half price store at the one thrift store so we headed there and made a couple of other stops too. We were home by noon and I heated up some leftovers. We had Good News Club in the afternoon. It was our first time with the older kids being 15 minutes later. They are replacing three bridges fairly close together so a portion of the highway is closed to the school buses have to detour around. We decided to go watch the boys basketball game in the evening. It's substate week. After the games tonight, the girls get to go on to State. The boys lost by 3 points. I was able to watch the last part online so that was fun.
Wednesday was when we thought the used book sale started at the big library so headed in there as soon as I got done working on the Echoes. Well, we found out being open to the public started on Thursday so we ate and then went to several thrift stores and came home with about 2 boxes of books - don't think we paid over $.25 for any of them and a lot were 10 for $1. That's nice since the shipping adds up on them. When we got home I baked my cream puffs and then we went to church in the evening. I don't get any visiting after class since my kids don't want to sing in junior choir. I miss it but it's nice to get home too.
Thursday was our all-day women's meeting. We had several projects going, a couple of good speakers and a delicious pot luck meal. It was fun visiting when there was time too. I worked on our Sunday School material and wordless book bracelets. The one table cut up t-shirts and made jump ropes for Operation Christmas Child. No Bible study and it was nice to just be able to stay home.
Friday we headed to town. I really did have a short shopping list which was nice since I had an appointment to get my eyes checked. I got them dilated for the first time ever and it wasn't bad at all. We got done about noon so ate at McDonalds and got the cold stuff and headed home. The rest of the day was at home. I got all we bought put away and some other odds and ends but didn't have to push on anything since there's no dinner here Sunday.
Saturday I had the whole day at home. I tried to get a number of one time jobs take care of. I didn't get everything I put on the list done but made progress on things. Didn't do anything great but did other stuff besides the house. Ralph still has all his boxes of books sitting around so hard to straighten things anyway.
Sunday we left the house at 8 am and came home at 8:30 pm. We drove about an hour and went to an Amish Mennonite Church. The men sit on one side and the women on the other and wear head coverings. Hymns were familiar and good message. Then we went to the home of the one who invited us and two other couples. His mother fixed a delicious meal. I'm guess that most of what we raised she grew. There were sweet potatoes, green beans, a tossed salad, 2 large roasted chickens (16 were around the table) and fruit with whipping cream and poppyseed cake were for dessert. I also got the chance to try dandelion greens - ok but won't go digging my own. Most there were of Mennonite background so stories were shared. One had quite the story of escaping from the Russians during WWII. About 4:30, the dad made a huge bowl of popcorn (again he had grown it) and cider. We left around 5:30 and made it back to our church for the evening service and headed home after that. DH gathered the eggs and washed two days worth (100 eggs) and I did my list. As we were headed for bed and I was getting out of the shower, the electricity went off. We got flashlights, set the alarm on my cell phone and we went to bed. It was back on this morning.
I had the morning at home to work on stuff, babysat this afternoon for Derek (had 3 of the kids) but most of the time was nap time so pretty easy work. She had made chocolate chip cookies that morning so I had one (well two). Got home about 2 and just been working on the list. Very windy day - has made it bad for fires cause it moves them so quickly. Had a few sprinkles abut a good rain would be really nice. Tomorrow Ralph has a check-up so we'll do it and visit the thrift store and Walmart and then Good News Club in the afternoon.
Well, Sheryl, is John leaving the woodstove alone now or is he continuing to do more with it. Since Simon and Norma aren't on the same page on a lot of things, this sounds like a good move. I'm sure it had it's hard moments but now both can move on. Norma has a lot of things she wants to do and I hope she can do them all.
Sorry you'll have to miss so many Bible studies. That would be nice for Carol to spend a little time with Norma although I always have something with me so I don't mind being by myself when with someone.
Marcie, you have been eating out a lot. The meals sound good though. Ahh, you'll miss your old boss. Maybe you could get together with her once in awhile. She would probably enjoy that. Wow, clean clothes, a clean car and clean windows. You're on a roll.
Nice that your dad went to the ceremony. Sad more didn't. The monthly meetings will be a good activity for him.
My brother is handling the move okay but not liking it. He's using a walker for stability and his house is sold.
Cisco keeps his eyes open. I'm sure he appreciated you 'sharing' your meal. Hope that pill isn't found by anyone.
Long lost family sounds like a moving show. A cousin's son just located his birth family. His mom has been dead for many years (car accident) but there are two brothers he has talked too.
Let us know how your gadgets work out. I've thought about the onion slicer deal. The microwave cleaning one looks like fun.
Good thing you walk all you do so the steps weren't too bad for you. Were the elevators fixed by the end of the day? Glad you were able to avoid an accident.
Sheryl, you don't have to try and copy Marcie. Stuck in traffic is no fun. Sorry the voice is coming slower than they hoped but at least there is improvement. You're doing good at getting all your exercises done. Hope the weather lets you get the outside things ready for John.
Isabella, I watched the Good Fight and enjoyed it. Did not realize the rest would be online. Bummer. I won't do that and tie up my computer (or pay). Hope they don't start doing a lot of programs that way. Yes, the sour milk is kind of like using buttermilk. The gum thing sounds interesting - probably costs a lot too. I've got other things that need to be done first. My mouth is actually quite valuable. Fresh salmon - yum.
Sheryl, I know what you mean about things showing up in ads after you look at them. At least it doesn't last too long. I've gotten pretty good at ignoring them. Sorry the last phone call with your mother was such a downer. It would be nice for her to call Esther. Change is extra hard for her (or impossible - ha). It's wonderful to hear that Esher is doing so well.
Well, this missive is very long. If you're still reading, thanks for hanging in there. Off to do my list now. I'd say I won't go so long, but you never know about me.
0
