Happy New Year, 2009

It's New Year's Eve. We just watched Live from Lincoln Center with the N.Y. Philharmonic. I've switched the channel since the concert has ended. Now we'll watch the count down to 2009. I hope that the music is something I can enjoy. I'm not very Hip to the new music. Times Square, live with Carson Daly is our first stop of the evening. If we don't like this we'll switch to Dick Clark's Rockin' Eve on another channel.
Happy New Year!!!

New Year's Eve, Eve

The year is quickly coming to an end. What are your dreams for 2009? I haven't made any resolutions for the new year. Dreams? Well, yes, I suppose I have a few. Not ready to share them, however.
It will snow here on the last day of 2008. Since I have bronchitus I'll be at home watching the ball drop on the TV. I'm hoping that the snowfall is light so that I don't have to dig my car out on New Year's Day. To all my friends and family, I wish you all a Happy and Healthy New Year.
I feel like I've been a "shut in" for the past 2 weeks since I've been sick. I can't wait for 2009 to roll in. May it bring good health and prosperity. I'm looking forward to feeling well and getting out and about. The few plans I had for this week have been cancelled. I'm hoping that it's a mild weather winter here in the northeast. If it is, we'll be able to get out to see friends without being hindered by bad roads and bad weather.
If I were to make a resolution, it would be the usual, to lose weight and get more exercise. There are always other things which need attending to, but I'll keep those to myself.

The Uneventful Day

Today was not an eventful day. The weather was warmer so I managed to get the garbage taken out. I didn't accomplish anything worth talking about today. I made Mom and I lunch and rested for the rest of the day. My cold lingers on. We watched some Disney movies on the tube. Right now we're watching the history channel. The cats are both napping. Mom is taking a nap and I'll make her some supper when she awakens. There's nothing on the agenda for the rest of the evening. Perhaps they'll be a good movie on later. We'll see.

January Plans

Next week is pay day. I've already begun to make out the checks for bills. I will get them in the mail early because of the holiday on the 1st. Vacation ends on the 5th. I have a doctor's appointment on the 6th. As of now I'm scheduled to work for half a day on the 9th and am hoping that I get something for the 8th as well. As long as I can stay healthy, I'll try to work for at least 3 days a week through the winter months. If It's an exceptionally good work week, I'll work for 4 or 5 days. I have to "Strike while the iron's hot" so to speak. When the warm weather comes I'll want to play golf or be out and about with friends.
I'm wondering how cold a winter we will have this January and February. We had a couple of really brutally cold days before Christmas which is unusual for us. I remember cold days like that in December when I was a young child and a teenager. Winter is easier to get through when the days aren't bitterly cold. However, I'd prefer the cold to icy, crusty, snowfalls which are very deep and hard to get around in. I guess I minded the last freeze we had because of my bad cold. I've learned to dress warm, in layers, and to wear a hat and gloves. This too shall pass, as they say.

December 26th, The Day After

One holiday down, one to go. Unfortunately for me, my cold was not gone by Christmas. I didn't make as many things as I had planned. I did get the dinner done and my sister brought dessert. Thankfully, she helped me clean up by washing the pots and I dried them. Thank goodness for dishwashers when it comes to other things like measuring cups, glasses, dishwasher safe dishes, cups and flatware. Needless to say I didn't use the usual Christmas dishes and silverware because they have to be washed by hand. I opted for the easy way out because I was still pretty ill. No one minded at all. I'm glad they're not fussy about things like that.
We had a nice visit with my sister and her husband, my brother and Mom. Everyone was pleased with the gifts they received which were thoughtfully selected for them.
Today I started catching up with laundry since we're not expecting company. I'll continue to do it tomorrow and we'll be all caught up. I'm putting clean sheets on the bed today. Sometime this weekend I'll vacuum and wash the kitchen floor. That'll probably take place on Sunday after Church. I'm even ready to put 2 wreaths and 1 centerpiece away for the season. We'll still have enough decorations "decking the halls" for another week.
I hope that everyone had a Merry Christmas with their loved ones. Here's to a Happy and Healthy New Year for us all.

Return Of The Sunshine

The day started out miserably, but I'm happy to report that the sun began to shine a couple of hours ago. I stayed in all day to nurse my cold. I figure if I rest today, tomorrow I can resume my preparations for Christmas. I'm reading "An Irish Country Christmas" which I am enjoying. Later we'll have dinner and perhaps there will be a Christmas story on the TV which we can watch. If not, it's back to my book for the rest of the evening. We've been listening to Christmas music all day. The tree and wreath are lighted as are several electric candles scattered here and there. The pumpkin spice candle is in the candle warmer and we've just finished a cup of "Christmas Eve" tea. We're snug and warm as we watch the faux fire in the fireplace. (I guess you can't have everything)
It's important that I get to the store tomorrow for I've run out of tissues and vitamin C drinks for which I have a great need at this time. Hopefully, the roads will be ice free and I can beat the crowd by getting to the grocery store when it opens at 7:00 a.m. After the shopping is done, I can make the other stops on my list.
Have to remember to take the turkey out of the freezer tomorrow so it'll thaw by Thursday. The beef tenderloin will also need to be defrosted for Christmas Eve.
Until I'm feeling better, tea, lemon and honey are part of my present and future. The juices will give a good dose of Vitamin C which should also help. I'm aiming to be 100% better by Tuesday evening.

A Taste of Winter

My brother in law drove me down the shore today so that I could bring Mom's car up here. I also brought a table top artificial tree completely lighted up with me. I've put it on the desk in the living room. Naturally, the cats were intrigued by it. Sandy crawled under it and knocked it over. I ran across the room to catch it before it hit the floor. He and Coco are napping now and hopefully have forgotten about the tree.
After I returned with Mom's car, I shoveled my own car out of the icy, crusty, snow which covered it. That wasn't an easy task. I couldn't open the driveside door because it was frozen shut. So, I got into the passenger side, reached over to start the car and 20 minutes later the car was warm enough so the driver's door could be opened. I had to move the car so that the parking spot could be plowed. We're expecting more snow tonight so it'll be more of the same tomorrow.
On Monday the weather will be good. Therefore, I'll go to the grocery store to purchase all the perishables for our Christmas dinner. I'll also have to make a stop at a local bookstore to pick up a gift for Mom to give. The corner drugstore is on my list of stops that day also. Mom needs another gift for someone else.
If I can fit it in I'll go to the dollar store to buy some larger gift bags. I've heard that they're a real bargain there compared to other stores.
They're predicting a wet Christmas Eve. Rain I suppose. It'll be too warm for snow which is a good thing for all the people who need to travel on Christmas Eve. Here's hoping that everyone has safe travels and a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

A Snowy Day

It's snowing today! It's kind of a sleety snowfall. I'm glad that I don't have to go out and drive on the roads. My assignment for this morning was cancelled so I've been home keeping warm, and reading. I have a cold so I had chicken soup for lunch and beforehand had a cup of tea with lemon and honey. The cats are napping. Sandy is on the wing chair and Coco is under the footstool. The fireplace is on and Christmas music is playing. The drapes have been opened so we can watch the snowfall outside. I'm fighting the sleepy feeling which is coming over me. It would be a good idea to take a rest since I'm also fighting a cold, but I don't want to sleep my afternoon away. I've been awake and up since 5:15 a.m. this morning. It's amazing how fast the day goes even when you are up early. I went out this morning at 6:45a.m. to pick up some milk and cat food. Decided to do that before the snow started to fall. I'm grateful for the local convenience store only a few blocks away. When I need something in a "pinch", that's where I can go. There don't seem to by many birds out side the door hopping around in the snow. I can see a few on top of a distant tree.
Coco has awakened from her nap. She's now sitting at my feet. Sandy is still sleeping. I have a book to get back to so I'll sign off for now. "An Irish Country Christmas" awaits me.

Another day and nothing to say. Went to the grocery store this morning and bought the nonperishables for Christmas dinner. I need to go back next week to get the dairy and the produce items.

• I made a stop at the library this morning to return two books and to pick up two new books. One is a novel called "An Irish Country Christmas". The other is "The Man Who Invented Christmas" which is about Charles Dickens. I've started the one about Charles Dickens. It's going to be a good read. Sometimes you can tell right from the beginning.
• Nothing much else was accomplished today. I did take a nap because I'm getting a cold. Felt like I needed to sleep.
• Tomorrow is a work day. We're due for a snow storm. I'm wondering how that will effect the day of work.

A Good Day

My day at work was a good day. The snow that had fallen last night needed to be cleaned off of my car before I could head out, but the roads were not snow covered although they were wet. The environment looked beautiful. Snow on trees and the grass gave a look of a winter wonderland. The forecast is for more snow on Friday, Sunday, Monday and on Christmas Eve. We'll see what we end up with. I'm doing my shopping for food for Christmas tomorrow. Then if it snows, I won't have to go out in it. We'll be ready!!

Tying Up The Package

The routine dental cleaning appointment is crossed off the calendar! Unfortunately, I have to go back next Monday to have a filling fixed. That will end the medical appointments for 2008. HOPEFULLY! I'm tired of being poked and prodded. So, the package is being tied up before Christmas. We start again in January.
I spent some time today copying a knitting pattern for my friends. A friend from FL sent it to me to share with them. Our knitting group will get together sometime soon. It's not a group that meets monthly or even weekly. It just meets when we can coordinate our busy lives. So, we knit at home and have show and tell when we get together occasionally. It would also be fun to play Bunco occasionally. It's a "no brainer" game so we wouldn't need to play frequently for fear of forgetting how to play. It would be something to look forward to once a month. We'd need 12 people to play every month and a few people to fill in if someone can't attend. With the holidays upon us, we've curtailed all of our group activities until Januray. I feel like I need some activities for the week following Christmas. We are playing MJ on the 30th and some of the knitters are getting together on the 27th, tentatively. Does anyone want to do lunch that week? Let's see if we can pick a date that accomodates several of us. What do you think?

A Shopper's Paradise.

Another doctor appointment to cross off of the calendar. It went well today. Afterwards I stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few things. After dropping all I purchased at home, I rode to Pennington to drop my quilt off to be quilted. I also got a quarter yard of a dark blue fabric and a quarter yard of a gold colored fabric for our next quilt guild block of the month.
There is a local pottery store which is closing. I headed there next to get Mom some cereal bowls. I'm so glad I decided to do that because everything was 60 to 80% off today. It's amazing how much I was able to buy for so little. The best buy was a pepper mill which only cost 25 cents. How many years ago do you think a pepper mill would have sold normally for 25 cents? Probably before I was alive. I picked up a few gifts for future gift giving. I got 4 blue crystal champagne flutes and 4 ruby crystal champagne flutes for myself. A bargain at 80% off. As I was getting ready to leave someone said that a truck had arrived with more items to sell in the store. The shelves will be restocked with items so if you need anything I'd suggest that you make a stop. You'll be pleased at the value you will get for your money.

Christmas Snow

The last time it snowed on Christmas was the year I was being treated for breast cancer. It was a significant snowfall that year. I cooked dinner for the family and was pleased to not have to drive to be with the family for our celebration that year. My sister drove over early in the day. Later that day, her husband walked the 2 miles from their house to mine. The snow had gotten considerably deeper by then. He had ventured up to north Jersey to visit his siblings that morning and decided that after getting home safely, walking was a better option. A White Christmas is nice if no one has to drive. If it snows and doesn't stick to the roads, but only whitens the grass, A White Christmas is for me. Otherwise, I'd like the snow to fall during our sleeping hours and I'd like the roads to be cleared of snow for all the drivers out there. We don't drive sleighs anymore. Although I've always wanted to have a ride in a horse drawn sleigh. I don't think that's going to happen in this lifetime. I do have jingle bells on my door knob. So I'll have the sound of a sleigh ride each time someone comes in the door. The sleigh and the horses will never appear. Wouldn't that be a sight if they did?

Clock Chimes

When the clock strikes the hour, it's rather noisy. That's usually the time when whatever we're listening to can't be heard above the chiming of the clock. When I first got the clock I remember speaking to my doctor on the phone when the clock started to chime. He asked me if I lived near a church. I replied "no, that's my grandfather clock". I found that to be amusing at the time. Nevertheless, I do live by a church but I can't hear the church chimes because I have chimes in my living room. (That's not the same as having bats in your belfry) In case you were wondering. Another noisy piece of furniture I'd like to have is a player piano. The difference between the two is many, but one main difference is that the volume on the player piano can be lowered or raised. The grandfather clock doesn't have that feature. You do get somewhat use to the chimes. I never am awakened by them when I go to bed for the night. That's a good thing, and much appreciated. If you happen to fall asleep in the recliner in the living room, you may not be so lucky. The clock is a beauty. It's nice to look at and also nice to hear. It's just Loud at some inconvenient times.

Well Developed Stories

We watched a "cute" Christmas movie on the TV last evening. It was called, "It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year". Henry Winkler played the uncle in the story. I was satisfied with the ending of this movie. So many times, the endings are a disappointment. For instance, I read "A Christmas Grace" by Anne Perry. I liked the story but was disappointed in the ending. It seemed like it wasn't thought out well nor was it well developed. The author was tired of writing and just decided it was time to end the story. At the moment I'm reading a story by David Morrell called "The Spy Who Came For Christmas". I don't usually think about spies when I'm thinking of Christmas. I'm interested in seeing in what direction the author takes the reader. I hope that the ending is not a disappointment. I've ordered a couple of other Christmas stories from the library. One is about the man who wrote "The Christmas Carol". I'm not sure of the exact title of the book off hand. Another is a book of Irish Christmas stories. I like to read Christmas stories because the reader gets to enter the fictional lives of the characters and to view their holiday traditions and their culture. If it's a good story, it warms the heart. Christmas is a time when the "heart" seeks warmth more than at any other time of year. That's one of the reasons this holiday is so special to me.
I haven't been outside in the evening to see all of the lights people have used to decorated their homes. I'm going to try to get Mom to take a ride with me sometime next weekend so I can enjoy the lights with her. Seeing those also gives one a special feeling at this time of the year.
I wonder what story our Christmas celebration with family and friends will tell this year. I'm sure we all have favorite stories of Christmases past which we like to retell. One of the best Christmas presents I remember receiving was when I was ten years old. I got a pair of white figure ice skates. There was always a gift which felt more special than the others, although they were all appreciated. Merry Christmas to you all. May you feel the gift of love and friendship this holiday and may each gift you open be more special than the one before.

Third Sunday of Advent

Today went by quickly. I went to 8:30 a.m. mass where I was the lector. After mass I went to buy a hamper which was on sale for 50% off. Then I bought a graveblanket and drove to the cemetery to put it on my father's grave. I felt good visiting his gravesight. I felt his presence while I was there. He always enjoyed Christmas with the family. I miss him. Christmas hasn't been the same since we lost him about 20 years ago. There is a certain sadness present now which wasn't part of Christmas then. I'm sure it's the same for everyone who's lost a loved one. It's especially true as you get older and the people you have loved all your life begin to die. We all make the best of the situation and we do enjoy the holiday each year but it'll always be different.

A Very Nice Day!

It was a very nice day at work today. I wish that that could be the Norm instead of an exception. Hopefully, it will be in the future. The day started out with rain but sometime during the morning the sun came out for awhile. When I left work to come home it had gotten very cold. My evening has been uneventful. There hasn't been anything on TV which I've wanted to watch. We're listening to Christmas music. Mom is reading. I'll do the same before I go to bed. Good Night!

Work Again

Tomorrow is another day of work. The day will start earlier and end earlier. It is still a full day's work. I'm glad it's Friday also. At the moment I don't have many plans for the weekend. I will read at church on Sunday, but other then that, I'm free. If nothing turns up to go "out" and do this weekend, there's always the hobbies. Plenty to do there. I won't be spending money if I stay in either. It doesn't make much sense to work for two days and then to go shopping. My goal is to pay bills with the money I'm making. Eventually, I'd like to save the money for a rainy day. Here's to good days ahead, filled with good health, happiness, good friends, and filled with plenty and lack of want.

Christmas Stories

Tonight I finished reading "A Christmas Grace", a book by Anne Perry. It was a nice story, a bit of a mystery. I'm about to start a book by David Morrell entitled, "The Spy Who Came For Christmas". David Morrell is a NY Times bestselling author. I have it on good opinion that this mystery is very good. I was a bit disappointed in the ending of "A Christmas Grace". Since we can't find anything to watch on TV which has a Christmas theme, we've decided to read books. We love mysteries and we love Christmas so that's a good combination. I'm always looking for a new Christmas story to either see on TV or in the movies or to read. I've watched my old favorites so much that they don't hold my attention through the entire movie any more. Usually, I fall asleep before the ending. I suppose that I should take a year of two "off" from watching them and then maybe they'll be "fresh" again someday.

A Job

Tomorrow I will be working all day. Glad for the opportunity.
I'm about to check the weather channel to see what kind of weather we'll be having for Thursday. I heard a mention of snow for Friday and am hoping tomorrow will be dry. I found the job on the website. I also got a canned message asking if I were available to work. That's the first time for that. I wasn't sure who was calling as they didn't mention where I'd be working or for whom.
There is a delay when you answer the call. I'm usually inclined to hangup on such calls. I guess I'd better not be so fast to do that in the future.

Tuesday, Really!

Today I rode down to the shore to check up on the house. I even drove the car around the development for awhile just to make sure that it still runs. It does, thank goodness. I wasn't gone long. As a matter of fact I returned home at about noon. I brought lunch for us. A friend called shortly after I arrived home. We had a nice chat. About an hour or so later, my sister came over. It's good for Mom to visit with someone else other than me, so I was pleased that she came by. Coco loves E. because E. plays rough with her. After the workout Coco usually sleeps for awhile to recuperate.
Dinner is done and the kitchen is cleaned up. Coco just climbed into my lap. It's not easy to type with a cat in your lap. I plan to sew later while we watch Andre Rieu's show, Winter Wonderland. Finally, something Christmassy for the older generation.

Winter Weather

What a cold day today was! I had a doctor appointment this afternoon and then I went to the grocery store. I was glad that I wore a scarf around my neck as well as wearing my coat and gloves. I slept later than usual today. I originally awoke at 4:00 am, but went back to bed at about 6:00 am. I slept until 10:00 am today which I haven't done in years. I guess I needed to make up for the sleep I've lost getting up with two cats every day. I haven't accomplished much around the house although I did do a load of towels in the washer. I've looked in the TV section of the paper and found that there are no good Christmas movies on tonight so we're listening to Christmas music. Hopefully, the cats will leave me alone as I attempt to sew this evening. I don't want cat hair all over the baby quilt I'm working on. I could go sit in the sewing room to sew, but there aren't any comfy chairs to relax in while I hand sew. It's much more comfortable in the living room for that type of sewing. I got a half day of work for the 19th. Would also like to find something for later this week. It's been hard to get the 2 days a week I thought I could get every week. One day would work better than a half day. Maybe no one is taking off at this time of year. Hopefully, I'll get more days after the Christmas recess.

A Sunday Visitor

We had a visitor this afternoon. My sister stopped by. We talked about many things. One thing we did was to reminice about our trip with P & S two weeks ago. We planned on who would make what for dinner on Christmas. I made a pot of tea and served oatmeal cookies. When that was gone, I made another pot of tea. She may stop by tomorrow to see Mom. It's always nice to have company, even if it's unexpected.

Sunday

This morning I cleaned the snow off of my car and went to church to be the lector at the 8:30 am mass. I always feel good when I do that activity. Next Sunday I will do the same.
When I returned home I started the laundry, straightened up, and changed the bed sheets. I made tomato soup and grilled cheese for lunch and then started the dishwasher.
After completing these activities I was able to get another binding on a quilt. Just need to tack it now and it'll be finished. I locked the cats out of the sewing room so that I wouldn't be disturbed while sewing. Coco cried at the door for awhile and then sat there until I emerged later. She's asleep on the chair across the room right now. The chair she chased Sandy out of so she could nap. Sandy hasn't found another place to take his nap yet. Mom is also napping in her recliner. Surprisingly, I'm wide awake although I only got about 5 hours sleep last night. Don't think I'll need a nap. I may knit for awhile. I have the Traditional Christmas music channel on the tv which I am enjoying. I finished all my cards yesterday and will send them out when I get my Christmas stamps next week. I've already gotten 3 cards and haven't sent one out yet. I'm wondering how many friends will notice that. Sometimes they tell me that they do. It's sunny and crisp outside. The shadows are lengthening on the back lawn. In another hour or so we'll need to start putting on the lights. I'm feeling sort of "Christmassy" today. A good sign.

Newer Movie, Older Premise

Tonight we watched "You've Got Mail". It is a modern version of the story we saw yesterday, "In The Good Old Summer Time". Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan star in the modern version. It is cute. Both still hold up today. The older version starred Judy Garland and Van Johnson. The setting of the story wasn't modern, but it was believable. I enjoyed both of the movies. Now I'm wondering who the original writer of the story/premise was? I wonder if the newer movie states who the writer had been? If not, I wonder if it's plagerism?

Old Movies

We watched two movies this evening on the TCM channel. We saw "Meet Me In St. Louis" and "In The Good Old Summer Time" both with Judy Garland. I had never seen the last one. I enjoyed it. As I understand it, it's a sequel to the first. Right now we're watching "Scrooge" . It's the musical with Albert Finney. I never saw it before either. Still waiting for the Christmas programming to come on the channels. Would like either music or new stories. We watched "The Bishop's Wife" the other day. I've seen that so many times I know some of the dialog. I guess if the tv stations don't do Christmas shows I can always watch my tapes. Am in the mood for something fresh and new, however.

My First Christmas Party

The Quilt Guild had their Christmas party today. The favor at the table was some fat quarters either in the form of a Christmas tree or in the form of a star. I went home with a tree which contained rich colors of burgandy, green, chocolate brown and a white background piece of fabric with green trees scattered here and there on the fabric. It was a nice party. The luncheon was very good as well. Everyone brings a covered dish or a dessert. There was much to choose from. I enjoyed the conversation at our table and got to speak with a few people I never conversed with before. I'm glad that I attended. It was my first Christmas party of the season.

Day Is Done

My work day is done! It wasn't too bad a day. I started at 12:01pm and worked until 3:45pm. The only problem with that is I'll only get paid for half a day. Maybe tomorrow I'll be lucky and get a whole day to work.
I can't work on Friday afterall since I have another doctor appointment. The highlight of my day was coming home and having a hot cup of tea. On a day like this you feel like you never tasted such a good cup of tea before. My little kitten Coco greeted me as I came in the door. Sandy seemed to wake up then also. I'm told that they sleep all day when I'm gone and become lively when I return home. Thankfully, they're quiet right now. I have to check the computer for another job for tomorrow. It's not as easy as it sounds. Often there is nothing listed at all. Hope I catch it right and do get something!

Tuesday

Tomorrow I'm working for a half day. I'm hoping that I can get two more days in this week also. With a little bit of luck, I will. Went to get Mom's mail today. She'll be staying with me for awhile more. I enjoy her company, but my home is a bit more disorganized than usual with another person here. I usually have my Christmas cards in the mail by now, but I'm slow getting them written out this year. I guess I'll get to them when I get to them. Can't believe that Christmas is just three weeks away, plus 2 days. It's coming quickly. Hoping to be able to relax and enjoy the season.

A Day Out

Yesterday, my family and I spent all day visiting different unique shopping areas in our neighboring Pennsylvania. We took my brother and his wife to Rices's market, New Hope, and Peddlar's Village. In between we visited a boutique in NJ which was held on an Alpaca Farm. S and P enjoyed their day. They had never been to any of these places before. I was the chauffeur. We were so busy sight seeing and browsing through many stores that we never stopped for lunch. On the way home we stopped at a local Italian restaurant and brought home dinner which we devoured upon our arrival at the house. A good time was had by all. My brother and his wife returned home today. I always say that it's too bad they live so far away. We'd see more of them if they lived closer. I wish we could see them for the Christmas holiday as well. Having family visit for the holidays always makes things more special than they are when we're alone. Have a Happy Holiday Season and a Merry Christmas!

The Day After

We watched "An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving" on the Hallmark channel last night. It was a story written by Louisa May Alcott. I enjoyed the program. Unfortunately, I only got a few hours sleep after watching the movie. I was awakened several times by Sandy. I finally got up at 2am and stayed up until 4am. Mom and I watched another movie on the Hallmark channel and decided to try sleeping again. I was successful in sleeping until 8am. Most of the rest of the day was "sleepy". I held Coco often because she still had the collar/funnel thing around her neck. She was like a ragdoll. I couldn't stand watching her anymore. So I've just released her from her funnel bondage. She is now sprucing up. Something she tried to do unsuccessfully while in the collar. I'm hoping that it's not too long before she returns to "normal" behavior. I don't have enough time in my day or life to sit holding a kitten all day long. Hopefully, tomorrow will be a more productive day.

A Nice Visit

Our family had a nice visit today. The meal was superb and so was the company. My pumpkin cheesecake pie was a hit! I even liked it although I don't usually like pumpkin pie. We had Champagne, Asti Spumante and some German wine.

Happy Thanksgiving

The kitchen tasks are done. Cole Slaw is made and so is the creamed cauliflower. I feel relieved that I don't have to cook dinner tomorrow. The only meal I'll prepare is breakfast. Of course, since I'm not cooking tomorrow, that means that I'll be cooking for Christmas. That's no big deal if I prepare things early and don't leave too much for the last minute. I prefer cooking for Christmas. There will most likely be only a small number of people coming for dinner. My gifts are all purchased. My sister and I are going to get together one day to make Christmas cookies. I'll watch the Christmas movies over the next month. So, I'll start to deck the halls. May everyone who reads this have a very Happy and Blessed Holiday Season. It starts tomorrow with a Happy Thanksgiving.

Almost Done

The pies are done! The house is clean! Tonight I'll make cole slaw and creamed cauliflower for tomorrow. THEN, tomorrow I can just enjoy the day. It starts with breakfast. I'm making pancakes and sausage. We'll watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade which we do every year. I'll pick my brother up and we'll all go to my sister's for dinner at about 1:00pm.

Altered Plans

My plans were altered for the day because I picked Coco up at 10:00am. She was very "needy". I did manage to make the Cranberry Bread before I picked her up and had started the pie crust. Finally, got the pie crust baked at about 6:30pm. I'll have to make the filling and bake the pie tomorrow morning. Also have two vegetable dishes to make tomorrow. They shouldn't be too difficult.
As far as sewing is concerned, I think that that has to wait until after the holiday. The house will be cleaned tomorrow. Maybe I can knit while watching the tube in the evening with Mom. I feel like I'm wasting time if I don't do something while I watch TV.

Order In The All Purpose Room

The only room I have to get into order after the holiday is the spare room. I sometimes call it the "sewing" or the "computer" or the "art" room. It's best described as the "all purpose" room. I plan on removing the storage items from the room and putting them in the storage closet. Things like the step ladder, seasonal decorations, odds and ends like the tennis balls, the bicycle lock and everything which lands there for lack of knowing what to do with them. If it doesn't fit into the three catagories I've mentioned, it's "out of there". I'll give stuff away or donate it. Anything to get some order in that room. Help! I need a miracle! I need order in my all purpose room. I wish I had a personal organizer to help get this room in ship shape. It wouldn't seem so overwhelming if I had help. Help! Help!

Productive and Creative

Today was another productive day. It started by taking Coco to the vet. When I returned home, I finished straightening up and had time to cut the binding for the next quilt. I sewed the strips together and tomorrow I will attach them to the quilt. Then the tacking on the back, or hemming, takes place. I'll make a label and another quilt is completed.
We had company briefly tonight. My brother and his wife stopped by to say "hello". They are in NJ for the Thanksgiving holiday when we'll see them again. Tomorrow Coco comes home, declawed. She'll be wearing a cone around her head so that she can't lick her wound. I imagine that she'll be very woozy from her surgery. We'll have to use special litter for her for at least a week.
I'm baking cranberry bread tomorrow and also a pumpkin cheesecake. Then on Wednesday I'll make the two dishes I'm bringing over to my sister's for Thanksgiving dinner.
Hopefully, while I'm waiting to pick up Coco, I can get a lot of sewing done. Then I'll work on the knitted afghan block which I started while in DE. As you can tell, I like to keep busy. I feel like I'm being productive and also creative at the same time.

Finishing Up

Tomorrow, Coco goes to the vet to be declawed. She has to fast from food and water after midnight tonight. I'm glad that she hasn't learned how to jump up onto the kitchen cabinet yet. That's where I hope to put all the food and water for Sandy.
Today I delivered the finished quilt to the person who will bring it to my cousin. I'm glad that that's been accomplished. I also rode down the shore to check on a few things. When I returned home, my sister was here. She had prepared Mom her lunch and also gave me a cup of tea. E. brought over some lasagna she made yesterday which we had for dinner. It was an easy day in the kitchen for me.
I'm just washing some bathrugs and a cat blanket tonight. I like to put the cat blanket on the bed so that the cat has a place to sleep without being on the bedspread. Sandy seems to shed more than Coco does. His cat hair is difficult to remove from some furniture so I place a throw of some sort on the chair he usually likes to sit in. I have 2 of those throws to wash tomorrow. I noticed that one needs to be dry cleaned only so we won't let him sit on that again. I have a few more summer things to put away tomorrow. After that is done I'll feel like I've accomplished the impossible. The only thing hanging over my head is the shredding which needs to be done. How I hate shredding!! It's so time consuming and boring to do. I know that if I'd just start it and do a little at a time, I'd finally get it all done. When I look at the quantity I have to do I get discouraged. Maybe when everything else is done, the house is cleaned, the baking for the holiday is done, and the dishes I'm bringing are made, I can get started on it. It may have to wait until after this coming holiday. Hopefully, I'll get it done before Christmas.

Jasmine

The quilt I made for my cousin, Kathie is done. The name of the quilt is Jasmine. I'm dropping it off at her sister's home tomorrow. Since it's winter weather, it will come in handy now. I would have loved to give it to her in person, but with the holiday season upon us, I'm not sure when that would happen. I just hope that she likes it. It think it's beautiful!! I've taken a few pictures of it so that I can show friends and also put a picture of the quilt in the quilt journal which I keep. Next comes the baby quilt. I need to put the binding on it and then add a label and it too can be delivered to the intended party. The baby is due this month. After that quilt there's one more for a little boy who just turned 1. I hope to have that done in December.
It looks like my sister's quilt will not be completed by Christmas. I'd like to get started sewing it together by then. Once the top is done, I'm half way "home".

A Productive Day

Today was a very productive day. I did get to work on one of my quilts. As a matter of fact, I only have about ten more inches to sew and I'm done. I also got out all my sweaters from the Hope chest and put some summer things away. I washed all the laundry in my hamper. I called my sister-in-law and found out that they may be coming up for Thanksgiving. It all depends on the weather. It's a long seven hour drive. Not fun in bad weather.
My neighbors were very noisy tonight. It sounded like the children were running around and jumping overhead. I decided to play Christmas songs on the piano. I hoped that if they heard my noise, maybe they'd get the hint. Of course, they didn't. It's happened before but never for the duration of time it occurred tonight. I actually got a headache from all of the noise. It's quieted down now. They must have been sent to bed for the night. I guess that that's one of the "joys" of having upstairs neighbors.
Tomorrow will be a food shopping day, and a trip to the hardward store for a furnace filter and clamps to hold the storm door in place. I'm also hoping for some time to sew before the day slips by tomorrow. I have another quilt which needs the binding sewn on. Slowly, but surely, they'll get done. Here's to a great weekend!

Update

This has been a week which is passing by quickly. On Monday I subbed for a local Art teacher. Yesterday I had 2 doctor appointments and today I had an hour and a half ride as part of an errand. Then I had the same ride home again.
If I don't work tomorrow I hope to either quilt or knit. Life sometimes gets in the way of ones hobbies. I also have a block of the month to complete for Friday's Quilt Guild. Cutting fabric with 2 cats around is going to be twice as difficult. I haven't tried to do that with the kitten around yet. I'm sure I'll be totally frustrated by the time I'm done. The best way to do it is to measure twice and cut once. Hopefully, it'll be that easy. I haven't written much lately because I don't feel that I have that much to say. I didn't want this blog to end up being like a diary of days. That's what it has turned into anyway.

Pinochle

The pinochle group has departed for the evening. K. won both games. I didn't come in dead last, that's something anyway. Coco and Sandy behaved themselves. That's the first time that friends have been over since I got Coco. I wasn't sure how she'd react. The cats came by the table where we were playing in the beginning but then after awhile they fell asleep in the living room and left us alone. I served pumpkin pie for dessert. They like to have whipped cream on top of it so I had that also. I refrained from dessert since I don't like pumpkin pie. I saved a piece for Mom for tomorrow. We've decided not to play Pinochle in December because it's such a busy month. So, that activity along with the small quilt group will resume in January.

Busy Pace

Life has returned to it's usual busy pace. The trip to WV and the trip to DE were successful and are both part of memory now. I enjoyed both visits and hope to return again in the future. This past week has gone quickly. I went to lunch with a friend from FL who invited us over to her daughter's for the meal. We had a nice visit. I haven't seen her for about a year and a half because last year at this time she had back surgery and couldn't travel. Last night she and I visited F. The quilt group was meeting at her place. It was nice for A. and F. to catch up since it's been a longer time since they've seen each other.
Today was a special day of sorts because I brought a new car home. It's been raining here all day which is Par for the course, so to speak. The car is a creamy white with a camel interior. I took the back roads home so I could get use to how the car feels. It was a nice ride. Tomorrow I'll go to the polytech to have my hair done and on Saturday my friends are coming over to play Pinochle. I'll have to bring my brother over on Sunday so he can see and ride in the new car. The benefit of having a new car is that I no longer have to worry about the gas gauge in my old car which didn't register the amount of gas in the tank correctly. I now feel confident that I won't run out of gas while traveling. I even have a back seat now which enables me to carry more than one passenger if need be. I look forward to driving it tomorrow.

Another Catch Up Day

Today was another day to play "catch up". I had some laundry to do, some straightening up to do and I managed to work on one of my quilt projects. Coco and Sandy were relatively quiet today. They did get me up at 3:00 am however, and started to chase each other around. At 3:30 am I returned to bed and slept until 7:00 am. I guess they had enough activity at 3:00am because they were better for the rest of the day. Coco is entranced by the computer and the tv. She likes to sit on my lap when I type and watch the screen. Sometimes when there is a scroll going across the bottom of the tv screen, she tries to catch it. She and Sandy have made "peace" so to speak. Occasionally, Coco tackles Sandy in a playful way, but Sandy isn't amused. He's like the "older brother" putting up with a "baby sister". Just leave me alone, is his feeling. Two cats are more work then one, but I'm having fun with them. Tomorrow will be a busy day because I'm preparing to go away for the weekend with friends. I'll be tying up loose ends before I can go. Hope to write again before I do.

Who Will It Be Now?

We're watching the election coverage on CNN. I'll be so happy when the issue is settled and we know who our next president will be. I think that all of these pundits are going to have "withdrawal" symptoms tomorrow. I wonder what they'll find to talk about next? I hope that our country gets back on the track and that we correct what's gone wrong lately. May God bless our new president and guide him in all he does.

Every Type of Weather Except Sunshine

We went to WV as scheduled last Tuesday. Unfortunately, our drive was not an easy one. The sun did not shine that day. We went through snow, sleet, rain, white out conditions and freezing rain. Luckily, we arrived safely, only an hour behind our time. The trunk was so full of luggage and other items that I left my laptop at home. We couldn't squeeze another thing into the trunk.
We had a good time while there. I went trick or treating with my great nephews and to water aerobics with my sister-in-law. I'm glad that we made the visit. Our trip home on Sunday was a much easier one. As always, I'm glad to be back home again. Now I'm getting ready to go away with two friends to visit another in DE next weekend. I'm looking forward to that visit as well.

Hoping For A Sunny Day

If I can fit it in the trunk with everything else I'm bringing, I'll take my laptop on my trip. Then I won't have so much mail to answer when I return home. I'll do my blog every day as well. My suitcase is in the trunk along with many other items. My sister-in-law just called and told me to bring my bathing suit with me so that I can go to water aerobics with her twice this week. That'll be fun. I'm looking forward to it.
The weather is threatening to be snowy north of us. After speaking to my brother, he said that there may be snow when we go through the mountains near them. I'm praying that the sun shines brightly instead. I don't like to drive in snow. If there is snow, I'll suggest that we stop and consider taking two days for the trip instead of one.

A Family Visit

Today went quickly as do most days. There is always something to be done. I went food shopping and picked up some items to take on a car trip this week. I've done laundry, and attended to some things which Mom needed done. Tomorrow she has a doctor appointment. After that, I may go to a local craft store to pick up something for my great nephews. They like art. So, maybe I'll find something I can bring down to them that they will enjoy doing. When I go to visit I will bring Kathie's quilt so that I can tack the binding down on the back of the quilt. It'll be ready to give as a gift when that is done. I'm hoping that without the interference of Sandy and Coco, I'll get the entire thing done this week. I've decided to give two Christmas dolls to my great niece. She can have a tea party with them and use the tea set I am bringing for her. I'm hoping that we can introduce her to "tea parties" while we're down there. I'm bringing scone mixes so we can indulge in them at our party. I look forward to a nice visit.

Golf

We played 18 holes of golf today. We started our day later because it is colder out and there was frost on the grass. We were playing the first hole at 11:00am. It was a great day for golf. It was chilly when we started but by the time we were done, it had warmed up nicely. We went for pizza afterwards. I needed to remove my sweat shirt because I was too hot with the 3 layers on by that time.
Don't let any one tell you that golf is not a sport which gives one a lot of exercise. I had a good workout today by walking and swinging the golf club. It was a lot of fun to be with these 2 friends also because we laugh. You know what they've always said, "Laughter is the best medicine." I might add, whether you're sick or not. We like to laugh. It feels so good and the effects last so long. It's a mood enhancer. The healthiest kind, and it's free and has no negative side effects.

Not Sandy's Day

Poor Sandy, he's at his wits end, so to speak. Coco won't let him alone when he's sitting on my lap. She's jealous. Whose idea was it to get a companion for Sandy? Several well meaning people, actually. Sandy doesn't know what happened to his world or Who this intruder is and why she's still here. I try to keep her at bay when I'm holding Sandy, but she is very insistent that she'll be held also. She bites, nothing serious, doesn't break the skin, thank goodness. He went somewhere to be alone. She's sitting across the room right now. I hope her behavior improves as she gets older.

Home Again

Home again. It's always nice to come home. I met two very nice ladies while waiting for my turn for the MRI. One gave me her card. She is a breast cancer survivor and offered to give me a ride if I ever need a MRI core biopsy. She has had one. The two ladies were waiting for a third friend who was having a procedure done. She is also a breast cancer survivor. I'm hoping and praying that everything is normal with the results of the test. They wished me well. One can't hear that enough.
The ride home was very pleasant since the trees along the highway are so beautiful and colorful. It's warmed up more than they predicted it would. The sun is shining and all is right with my world. Sandy and Coco have come alive since I've returned. I'm hoping that after they play for awhile, they'll go back to napping. I may join them while I listen to light classical music playing in the background.

The Saga of Coco and Sandy

Coco continues to torment Sandy. He's been so good with her! She won't let him near me. She runs around like a "nut" when I first come in the house or when I first arise for the day. She's cute but naughty. Yet, she can be sweet when she wants to be which doesn't happen too often.
Yesterday I went to a birthday party. When I arrived home they were both sleeping in a wing chair. I like to think that they behaved that way the whole time I was gone. I'll never know unless I put in cameras.
Today I'll go out for the Sunday papers. In the early afternoon I need to go to the hospital for an MRI. I hope that I remember to bring my film with me. I'll get home later in the afternoon and will have a chance to rest and to read the papers. That may not be an easy thing to do. I'm sure that Coco will want to be on my lap when I open up the paper. Sandy use to always sit on the newspaper when I was reading it. You can't get too much reading done that way. At any rate, it'll be good to be back home. After all, Sunday is a day of rest. Thank goodness we get one.

A Visit To The Quilt Shop

This morning I visited the quilt shop and bought some material to make the 2 quilt blocks for the quild. One will be due in November, the other is due in December. I chose the material on my own. The gal who cut it said that she liked the combination of colors I chose. That was enough to convince me that the block will appeal to someone. I only needed 3 colors for the second block. I chose what the directions said to choose, a rusty brick color, a tone on tone green and an off white. I hope that the other members don't choose dull colors for the last block. The sample they showed us was so drab. I wouldn't want to work on something that dull. Of course, I'd have to win the blocks first. I'd like to win a set of blocks sometime this year. Only, I hope it's a block I like and enjoyed working on. I also hope that the colors appeal to me. I seem to win things when I least expect to win. When I'm hoping I'll win, I never do. I guess I'd better just do the block each month and hand them in with no expectations.

The Colors of Fall

Aren't they beautiful, the colors of Autumn? Greens, reds, oranges, and yellows adorn the trees I see as I drive down the street. This season is my favorite. I love the beauty that nature surrounds us with, and the cooler, crisper air that we breathe and feel all around us. It's a time to dig out the warm, comfy sweaters which I've collected over the years. Today's sweater was a burgandy colored sweater. It fell below my knees. I needed it when I went out early this morning, but as the day warmed up, it was not necessary any more. That's what makes early autumn nice, it's cool in the morning, but the sun warms us up by the afternoon. Later in the fall season, we'll be donning winter coats in the morning and peeling down to sweaters by the afternooon. Just before the return of winter we'll be in full winter regalia, coats, gloves, hats, scarves and perhaps a sweater underneath to keep out the chill which will be in the air. There's something nice about the winter season also. My only complaint is that it lasts too long. Winter weather and winter temperatures don't actually end by the first day of spring, cheating that season a bit. Until then, when I begin to complain about the cold, I'll enjoy Autumn with it's vibrant colors and moderate temperatures. The promise of the holidays to come makes this time of the year exciting!

A Day Of My Own

I consider Saturday to be a red letter day this week. It's a day with no obligations, a day of my own. I may quilt at home. I may visit my favorite quilt shop and get some material for the next two month's "Block of the month" blocks. In any case, the day will be "special" because it's a free day. Later that day, in the late afternoon/ early evening, I will attend a birthday party. I'm looking forward to seeing some friends who I haven't seen in awhile. Since this event is later in the 24 hour day, near evening, I will still be able to get some quilting done.

A Quick Day

The Quilt Guild Meeting today was very interesting. We had a guest who showed us "Quilts From Around The World" with a slide presentation. She also had some of her personal quilts to show us. They were beautiful. She is a lecturer and an author. I purchased 2 of her quilt books which she signed for me. I hope to make one of the Fairy Quilts for my great niece some day.
After the meeting I had to go to the hospital to pick up my film for an MRI this weekend. After that I went to the bookstore to pick up a book which goes with the theme of the quilt I am making for a gift. I will present the book with a note about the quilt and announce it's arrival for a later date.

Alone and Well Behaved

Mom is home. We got her there at about 11:30am. I got her lunch, unpacked her suitcast and got her mail. I left a couple of hours later and arrived home at about 3:20pm. Both Sandy and Coco were sleeping peacefully on the wing chairs when I walked into the house. No damage was done while I was gone. That was a relief. I had closed the bedroom doors so they only had access to the living area. I'm glad that they behaved while I was gone. Sandy had always done so and I wasn't sure how the addition of Coco into the mix would work. I opened the doors and windows upon my arrival home. We enjoyed the fresh air all afternoon. When Coco decided to climb the screen door, I closed the door for the day. She had resisted doing that for most of the afternoon. She must think that she lives in a big box which she can climb out of if she goes high enough. We do live in a box but it has a roof. Thank goodness!

Change In Plans

Today was a wasted day because I had to cancel my plans and stay at home. I was sick. Luckily, I feel better now. I did get some of my sewing done the other day. Mom is still with me. Hopefully, we'll get her back home tomorrow.

Another Quilt Goes To The Quilter

The quilt which I am giving to a friends grandson is on it's way to be quilted. I doubt that it'll be done for the day I need it to be done. Isn't that always the way? It can be used on a bed or be used as a wall hanging. It's blues and lime greens with other little touches of color. I hope that they like it. I do. I'll give a card with another small gift announcing the arrival of the quilt in a couple of weeks. Now I can concentrate on putting the bindings on the other two quilts which are all quilted. Then I start on my sister's quilt which I hope to have done by Christmas. I'll give the top to her on Christmas and then take it back and send it to the quilter after the holiday. She's waited this long for it, I'm sure she won't mind waiting a bit longer. Quilting is fun, especially when you see the finished project and how nicely it turned out. I have several waiting in the wings to be sewn and then quilted. I'm hoping that down the road a piece, I can quilt them by machine myself.

A Quiet Weekend

Today my sister came over for a visit. Mom is still here. We had a nice chat and ate supper together. The kitten has settled down a bit and Sandy is still adapting. I made arrangements to play golf after the retiree breakfast on Wednesday. Tomorrow I take Mom for her physical and take the kitten for her next shot. I'm going to ask the Vet to trim her nails. They're definetly like weapons when she kneads me. The usual weekend chore of laundry has been done. I'm hoping that I can get some quilting done this week. The weather promises to be lovely. I can't put the shorts away yet. Maybe in another week.

Sibling Rivalry

The two cats are becoming more tolerant of each other. They are however, jealous of one another. I was holding the kitten on my lap and the 5 yr. old also jumped into my lap. He is so huge that there was barely room for him. Yesterday while I was holding Sandy, Coco came over to see what she was missing. They were also chasing each other down the hall earlier tonight. I know they'll "work it out" and become good companions for each other. Waiting until that happens is the hard part.

The Quilt Group

Our quilt group met tonight. I was able to trim each of the two quilts which I had quilted. Perhaps tomorrow I can cut the binding for one or the other. Then when I get the chance I'll sew the binding on and tack it on the back of the quilt. I also have to make 2 labels for the quilts. I spent the last part of our meeting perusing a new quilt magazine which I received for December. There are always so many beautiful quilts in these magazines. One would love to make one of each of them.

A Beautiful Fall Day

Golf went well on Tuesday. I played 10 holes and putted a couple more. None of us played the whole 18 because C. had to get back to let the dog out. C. invited us over for lunch which we enjoyed. While we sat there and talked, the dog untied our shoe laces. I've never seen a dog do that before. He was very friendly. Our friend didn't own the dog, she was dog sitting for a neighbor who was having surgery. So we all had a good laugh at the dog's "talent".
Today I brought Mom back for a visit. She needs a flu shot. We had an interesting day of conversation and laughter. Who or what were we laughing at? Coco, the new kitten. She's very entertaining.

Golf Again

Tomorrow my friends and I will play golf again. We'll be starting at 10:00 am instead of 9:00am this time in the hope that the dew will be gone from the grass when we are ready to tee off. It'll be cool in the morning but should get warmer by the time we finish playing. I hope that I show some improvement over the last time we played. Relaxing while I'm playing is the key for me. I like playing with these friends because they're not so serious about the game that you can't laugh at yourself . If we want to skip a hole, we do. If we want to lift the ball out of the sand trap we can. Two of us don't even keep score. Why? You ask. Because we are learning and we don't have to enter any tournaments. We play for fun, exercise and to be outside in the fall air. Hope there's no one behind us. If there is we'll let them play through. Life is short! Don't rush me on the golf course. I'd like to be able to converse with my friends about the shots we take etc. After the game the last time, we had lunch at a local restaurant. I hope we'll do that again. I'm looking forward to a great time!!

Laptop Back

For the past hour and a half I have been sitting here "playing" with the laptop in order to see if I can get it to work again. I'm not sure how I did it, but it IS back. The manual was helpful. It gave me a couple of ideas for "playing". I'm very thankful that I don't have to pay to have the problem solved. Who has money for that at a time like we're living in now? It would be unacceptable to have this repaired since I still have a desktop I can use. I would have just had to learn to live without my laptop. I like the comfort that has been returned to me as I spend the evening watching CNN and doing computer work at the same time. Oh, yes! Sitting in my recliner with my feet up.

Without A Laptop

My laptop computer died last night. Now I'll have to spend some time and money to get it working again. I'm not quite sure what has happened. Hopefully, it won't require "major surgery" and won't be too expensive to fix. What an inconvenience! In the evening I like to use it while I watch the news or listen to music. It's so perfect for using while sitting in a comfortable chair and having your feet up. I guess I'll have to give that pleasure up for awhile. Unfortunately, it's going to be a few days before I can get it taken care of. You see, my calendar is full and I wasn't planning on this.

Another Day With Coco

Sandy has learned to live with Coco. At this point, he is tolerating her. Although he is much larger than she, Coco taunts him. Some day he'll send her flying and hopefully, she'll get over her teasing. She doesn't let him get near me when she's around. So, right now, she's tucked in for the night in the master bath and he has the whole living area to himself. She's a happy little thing and very frisky! She's beginning to learn what she's not allowed to do. Hopefully, this won't take too much longer and I'll be able to leave her out in the living area when I'm not here. I'm not taking any chances yet.

Autumn's Delightful

Today was an overcast, typical late fall day. It was cooler than I expected it to be. Not ready for what looks like November yet. I went grocery shopping this morning. When I got home I played with Coco. It has been a restful day. I didn't accomplish very much. Every now and then I need a day like that. I got out some fall decorations, a Jack-O-Lantern which has a bulb inside it and doesn't require a candle, a wreath of fall colored leaves which I hung on the fireplace, and a wooden jack-o-lantern with a welcome sign which I hung on the front door. I also have a large bowl filled with apples and tiny pumpkins on the dining room table. I bought Halloween cards for my great niece and nephews which I'll send some time next week. I do love the fall season, but I prefer crisp days with the sun shining, not overcast days which threaten to rain.
Tomorrow I've promised myself that I will go hit a small bucket of golf balls at the driving range. First, I'll go to church where I'll be the lector for the mass. I'll stop for the Sunday papers afterward. I will change the sheets and put the down comforter back on the bed. After lunch I'll go out to the driving range. When I return home I'll catch up on some laundry. The sewing room needs attention, but I'll get to that some day next week. When that's accomplished, I'll start the bindings for the 2 finished quilts. My Monday and Tuesday are full on my calendar, Wednesday morning is planned with a ? mark. Thursday and Friday will be free. On Friday night, we play Pinchle again. Hopefully, G. will join us this time. Sometime in the next few weeks I have to read "Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton. We plan to discuss this book when we get together in November, when we visit a former colleague who lives in DE. I've seen and enjoyed the movie. I'm sure I'll enjoy the book as well. That's all for now, here's hoping for more fun filled days ahead.

Sandy And Coco

It's time to go to bed. I'm wide awake so I know I won't be able to sleep. Sandy is asleep on the couch and Coco is tucked away in the master bath. Sandy couldn't stand the lack of attention he was getting today. He started to cry around 8pm. I decided to put Coco in for the night and give Sandy some time. He sat on my lap for awhile and I petted him on the head. When he was satisfied that I still loved him, he got down and went to take a nap. He's getting to the point where he sits and watches Coco. He will come closer now than he had been coming, but will always turn and walk away. He watched her play earlier today. He's adjusting slowly. I'll be glad when I don't have to lock Coco up when I'm away. Right now she's too young and I can't tell what she'd get into while I'm not here.

What To Do In November!

For the past several hours I've been listening to the cable news programs discussing the Vice Presidential debate which took place last night. Frankly, I'm tired of hearing about it. I did watch the debate. I stayed awake through the whole thing unlike the evening I watched the Presidential debate last week. The two participants of this VP debate weren't boring and had personality. They related to real people. That being said, I must say that I have confidence that Joe Biden could take over as President if need be. I don't have the same confidence in Sarah Palin. She is personable, and I'm sure intelligent, but she doesn't seem to know much. I think that she's out of her league! Go back to being the governor of Alaska. Read, study hard. Come back again in about 8 years from now. I think that John McCain made a mistake in choosing her as a running mate. I can't vote for John McCain and I don't want to vote for Baruck Obama. Can I write in "Do Over"? I don't like our choices. Hopefully, whoever gets elected will only serve for four years so we can try the process over again. I've never not voted in a presidential election. I really don't know what to do.
I guess I'll make my decision as I walk into the voting booth. I won't let anyone know my choice either because no matter who it is, I'll be ashamed that I actually voted for him.

Quilt Blocks Are Done

Thanks to a good friend and fellow quilter, I have completed the 4 quilt blocks which are due for the guild meeting in 2 weeks. We met together this morning and did the blocks. It's so much more fun to do your "homework" with someone else incase you need help.
I went down to Mom's afterward and returned home at about 3pm. Coco is walking all over me as I type, and Sandy is nearby. He's getting braver about being with Coco, but he's still distant. I wish he'd get over it!

Quilts And Tea

Today was a fun filled day. I picked up two of my quilts from the quilter. I was pleasantly surprised that they were both ready for me. They look great. All I have to do is put the binding on each and they'll be ready to be given to the designated recipient.
I met the Red Hat group at a tea room this afternoon. We had a nice lunch and good conversation. Before I left the tea room I bought my great niece a plastic tea set which she can play with whenever she pleases. I'm reserving the china set for when she gets a little bit older. I know which one I'll purchase for her but since I won't be there to teach her how to care for it, I've decided to wait about 2 or 3 years before I give it to her.
Tomorrow is a busy day. After meeting with friends in the morning, I'll be going down to Mom's in the afternoon. I won't stay over because I don't want to leave Coco and Sandy at home alone. Therefore, Saturday will be a "free" day for me. I don't have any obligations at this time. On Sunday I will be the Lector for one of the masses at my church. The rest of that day is "free" also. I'm thinking of a few things I can do in relation to my hobbies, but nothing is set in stone. I'm looking forward to a relaxing weekend.

My Nothing Much Day

Today went quickly, as do most days recently. I was able to get my hair done and also get a pedicure. This will be the last pedicure until sandal season again next spring. Since I didn't get a good night's sleep last night, I didn't have the energy to do everything else I had planned to do.
Tomorrow I will have lunch with the Red Hat group. I will also pick up my finished quilt. After lunch I may go to the grocery store. That will eliminate one thing to do this weekend. Then maybe I'll be able to go to the driving range this weekend. If I can do that I may do better next week when I play golf again.

Playing With A Partner

Last Saturday night I played Pinochle with friends. There were only four of us so we played with a partner. My partner and I won both of the games. I like playing with a partner better than playing for myself. I think it's easier to take in tricks. This coming Friday morning, my partner and I will be playing with G. She's going to join our Saturday night group but wants to "brush up" on her game before she plays "For Real". With the addition of G. we will be able to play with a partner each time we play. I'm looking forward to that.
My house guest has gone home. I am alone with Sandy and Coco. Sandy is getting a little bit braver and is showing up now and then. He always runs away again when he sees Coco. The baby kitten is brave. She went up to him where he was hiding. He hissed at her and she ran away. I brought her home to keep him company when I am away. Several people told me that Sandy probably gets lonely when I'm not here. I wish he'd get over being afraid of his "sister", Coco.

A Lazy Friday

Sandy graced us with his presence this morning while Coco was in the living room. They sat staring at each other for several minutes. Finally, Coco went off to play and Sandy headed for the bedroom to spend the rest of the day.
I didn't accomplish much today. Straightened up a bit and played with Coco. Dinner was leftovers from yesterday which made that easy. We had a little technical trouble with the tv and the telephone, but that has been corrected. There is no need for a service call from the company, thank goodness. Tonight will be spent watching the tube, I guess. It rained a kind of misty rain today. It is going to rain tomorrow. Hopefully, I can get Mom home on Sunday.

An Entertaining Day

E. came over this afternoon. We had a nice visit. I made Wine baked Chicken breasts for dinner and served it with rice and a salad. That is a favorite with E. and Mom. We were entertained by Coco for most of the day. She did take several naps which gave us a rest. As a matter of fact, during one of her naps we napped too. Sandy stayed in the bedroom all day except for the early morning hours when Coco was still locked in the bathroom. At this moment he is out in the living area investigation her scent. Coco is inside the BR for the night. I wish he'd get brave and come out when Coco is out. I'd like them to bond before I leave them alone. He is so big and she is so small. It's amazing that he's afraid of her and not vice versa.

More Coco

We spent the whole day playing with and watching Coco. I think she's bonded with me finally. Sandy still hides in the bedroom. Coco is very playful and has shown that she'll use the litter box. I got very little else accomplished today except that I did take Mom's car for an oil change this morning. My sister may come over tomorrow. Maybe she'll have a secret for getting Sandy out of the bedroom. We're expecting rain tomorrow. I'm hoping that it holds off until the afternoon. There are a couple of errands I'd like to do. I have to return library books and pick up dry cleaning. I'd like to get more litter for Sandy's box and maybe go to the quilt shop to pick up my quilt which is now finished. Rain would put the visit to get the quilt on hold. I'm anxious to see it. I'd also like to buy a disposable camera so I can take a picture of the quilt for my Quilt Journal and also start taking pictures of Coco. No one would believe how tiny she is. I'll stand her next to a mug and it'll be obvious to any viewer.

Perfect Day For Golf

We played 18 holes of golf today. I did much better than the last time I played. I need to go to the driving range and work on my swing. The driver is still a challenge for me. The other clubs I used today were helpful. I used the #5 wood from the fairway, the #4 hybrid, the #1 and #2 wedges for getting out of the sand traps and of course the putter. I had more success getting out of the sand today than previously. I got out with 1 shot each time. Putting was pretty good, but not good enough. The wonderful thing is that I play with gals who are not fanatics about the game. Another gal and I don't even keep score yet. That would be depressing. C. kept score but she's been playing longer than we have. I can't wait to get out there and do the 18 hole course again. The course we played on today would be good for summer play because there were a lot of trees and therefore, ample shade which would provide relief from the sun. It's a great sport. I like to play when there is NO ONE behind us. When that happens we actually have time for conversation while we make our way around the course.

Coco

Well, I finally did it. I brought a "little sister" home for Sandy. She is so cute! Coco is a long haired, charcoal colored kitten. She has a white underneath and white paws. She also has a white blaze on her pink nose. She's been very playful all day. My scaredy cat, Sandy, is hiding in the hall and has been there since Coco came into the house. Hopefully, he'll bond with Coco and they can be good company for each other when I am not at home.
We've shown Coco the litter box several times today. I hope she will be a good girl and use it when needed. She's already had a little bit to eat and a drink of water. I'm wondering how the wee hours of the morning will go when I'm in bed for the night. Hopefully, it will be a peaceful night.

The Quilt Guild

The Quilt Guild meeting was a long one today. It was the first meeting of the year. We got a lot of business done and then had show and tell. A brief presentation on the basics of quilting was given before we adjourned for coffee And...
I am going to do the block of the month for October. I took the pattern with directions and a small piece of material which will be used to make the block. After I left the meeting I went to the quilt shop and got 2 small pieces of coordinating fabrics so that I can finish the block. The colors are various shades of green and purple. I love the combination. I hope that I am one of the Lucky winners of the completed blocks during the drawing at the October meeting.

Plans

The MRC meeting tonight was short and sweet. I signed up to work at two of the flu clinics. One is in October, the other is in November. The two I picked are more local for me and they both start early in the afternoon.
Tomorrow I'll attend my first Quilt Guild meeting in a year. It starts at about 9:30 am and will end by noon. I have no plans for the afternoon at this time. I may just spend the afternoon reading my bookclub book. It's kind of "strange" but interesting.
I'm headed to the shore for the weekend on Saturday. My family will celebrate my sister's birthday which happens to be tomorrow. I hope she likes the gift I've chosen for her. I know she'll like the gift Mom is giving her. Maybe we'll all be able to visit the ocean and walk on the boards or just sit and take in the beauty of the sea and the waves crashing on the shore. I know I've said this before, but I love the shore in the Off season.

Who's In Charge?

Who's in charge? That's what I'd like to know. Nobody seems to know what to do about the current crisis on Wall Street. The President gave a short speech today. It didn't relieve the anxiety which people are experiencing about the situation. Does anyone in office know what to do to fix the problem? I still am wondering who I'll vote for in November. I feel like we should have a "Do Over", and start the process all over again. I don't have confidence in either candidate. I can't believe that John McCain made the choice he did for a Vice Presidential running mate. She's such a novice. I hope she's a fast learner and will get "on the job" training if need be. I don't like the other Presidential candidate because he talks of change but I'm still wondering what kind of change he is speaking of. Not all change is good. I like the Democratic Vice Presidential candidate because I think he is a "good " person and he has many years of experience in government. He may be a help to Obama, but I'd feel more comfortable with a president who doesn't need help or advice on everything. God help us. We need a wise person who has concrete ideas. Our forefathers are probably rolling over in their graves. In the fifties we were asked in parochial school to pray for the conversion or Russia. I think that the good old USA needs prayers now. Everything seems to be such a mess!! Our leaders need enlightenment. Please put us back on the correct path. I remember what John F. Kennedy said during his inauguration address. "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." Our country needs us now. If you don't know what to do for your country, I'd suggest that you simply Pray!

My Day

The Retiree breakfast was lively this morning. I won a door prize which was a box of candy. Last week I won a prize at the Red Hat outing. Wish I could win the lottery. It always feels good to win something no matter how small a prize it may be. During our conversation this morning, two of my friends and I made a date to play golf next week. I'm going to go hit balls at the driving range either tomorrow or Friday afternoon to practice my swing.
The gal who is quilting a quilt for me called today to say it'll be done by next week. When I get it back I'll put the binding on it and take a few pictures before I give it to my cousin. I keep a journal of all the quilts I've made since I usually give them away as gifts. That way I have a record of what I've made.
Need to find a half yard of a "holiday" fabric for the Quilt Guild meeting on Friday. I'll look through my stash and see what I can come up with. A friend asked that I bring a shamrock piece of fabric. Perhaps that'll be it. Life is getting busy again. I guess that things quiet down over the summer. Now that Fall is upon us, everything is in gear again. Before we know it the holidays will be here.

The Calendar For This Week

The book I started today is called, "The Time Traveler's Wife". It's caught my interest from the beginning. I haven't gotten very far into it because I'm also reading another book which I need to finish. I will finish it in a few days.
Tomorrow I may attend the Retiree breakfast if I'm not called to work. A friend is attending and wants to set up some golf dates so if I go, I'll be sure to bring my calendar. I like long range planning because then I can block out my calendar for days for which I have something planned. If my schedule is blocked out with non-work days, my employer will know when I am available without having to call to ask me.
Thursday night is a meeting night of the MRC. I am a volunteer and will most likely help with the flu clinics this year in my county. The meeting will address issues involving the clinics.
On Friday it's back to the Quilt Guild. I took a year off because I had too many commitments to keep. I've had a personal request to rejoin the group by our out going President. I was flattered by her comments and will start attending the meetings. I'll end my week by visiting the shore area and stopping in on Mom. We may be celebrating my sister and her husband's birthdays sometime this weekend also. Hope I don't forget their gift.

Back Home

The weekend is over and I'm back home. Sandy missed me so I spent some "quality" time with him. The usual chores are being done, like laundry for instance. Tomorrow I have a dentist appointment. The place will be cleaned from top to bottom again. If I don't get a call to work on Wednesday, I'll go to the retiree breakfast, the first of the year, and say "hello" to everyone I haven't seen since last spring. I have to buy a belated birthday card for my cousin. I couldn't go to her 50th surprise birthday party because it was the same day as my reunion. I'll get her a gift card from a bookstore chain which I know she frequents. The pictures I took last weekend will be taken to be developed. I'll send a copy to Pat. I'll enter the last entry into my journal and perhaps start another journal. Tomorrow, since it'll be cooler, I'll start my walking regimen. That's something which I'll have to do everyday. Hopefully, I'll get back into shape by Christmas.

A Pajama Party

The Red Hat Society went to a Pajama Party today. It was a little different than the traditional PJ party. We didn't stay over night. We met for dinner at one of the lady's homes. There was a jewelry demo. So we shopped for Christmas gifts. We played a few games. I won the first game and received a pretty silver pendant with a red stone. Only ten of our members attended. We had a chance to talk to everyone as we sat around the table. We were served wine, baked ziti with meatballs and sausage and peppers. Several gals brought a dessert. We said "goodbye" at about 9:00pm and headed for home. A good time was had by all.

A Fun Filled Week

My high school chum left for home at noon today. We went to the reunion Saturday and had a wonderful time despite the rainy weather. We managed to visit our hometown the day before the reunion. We drove down my block and we drove down her block and she took pictures of both houses. While taking a picture of her house, the garage door began to open and out stepped the owner of the house. She assured him she wasn't a stalker. As it turned out they were the same people who purchased the house from her father more than 40 years ago. Her former neighbors still lived next door and she was able to visit with them for about an hour before we drove about a half hour so she could visit an elderly aunt and uncle. While she visited them, I stopped in on my cousin who lives in the same town. My GPS system helped tremendously that day. P. named the GPS system "Hazel". She said it had to have a name. So P., Hazel and I had no trouble finding our way that day or the following days as we visited for our reunion, and found another of her aunts. On Monday we visited the shore area and walked on the boards for awhile. I got a bit of a burn, not much, because I didn't expect it to be such a summerlike day. We had lunch at a very nice restaurant where we had a view of the ocean and could see the waves breaking upon the shore. P. loved the setting. While we were down there, we stopped in on Mom so that P. could say "hello" after so many years. The next day we went into NYC and visited Ground Zero where we had a tour of the site by a woman who lost her husband on 9/11/01. The tour was great and we shed a few tears as she retold the story of that dreadful day. I'm very glad that P. suggested we do that visit to the city. We also went to Rockefeller center and had a late lunch in the city before catching the bus home at 5:15pm.
It was a great few days. I'm sorry that my friend lives so far away, but she invited me back to her home for a visit which I hope to do in the future.
Here's to old friends, they're like GOLD.

Fair Weather, Please

Hopefully, the hurricanes and storms will stay away for the next 2 weeks. I wouldn't want the air travel to be effected by them. That would mean that my guest would not arrive as scheduled.
I got tickets for the play Evita at the Bucks County Playhouse. The forecast says that it will be cloudy that day. I can deal with cloudy. It will rain the day of our reunion, but we'll have shelter so I can deal with that also. I'd like it to be sunny the day we visit the shore area. We can walk on the boards and view the ocean. We may even walk on the beach. We plan to visit NYC. I'd like another sunny, but not hot, day for that visit. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Mother Nature doesn't throw a monkey wrench into my plans.

Little Things

Tomorrow is September 1st. It's also a holiday, Labor Day. Tomorrow I will do the little things which mean alot when you're having company. Fresh Sheets for the bed, fresh towels for the bath, a new shower curtain and bath mat for the bathroom are awaiting my visitor. I will find a few books or magazines to leave by the bedside. I will get out the tablecloth for the dining room table. Find the appropriate placemats and napkins, and hope that the cat stays off the table. On Tuesday someone is coming to help me clean the rest of the house. I plan on making the patio inviting by washing the outside of the sliding door where water has made streaks running down. I will also wash the glass top table and make sure the chairs are clean. It may be nice to have breakfast out there. Something I don't usually do.
All of the perfume bottles on my vanity will be dusted one by one so that they will sparkle. Any other little touches I come upon or decide to do will help create a welcoming feeling. Can's wait to see the place when everything's done.

A Lazy Day Today

It's a lazy day today. I awoke early but couldn't get into gear until 10:00am when I took my shower. I went to 11:30am mass at the local parish. I always enjoy being there. Their ending hymn is the same as the ending hymn in my Mother's parish. It's the one wishing safety to our fighting men and women on the land, in the air, and on the sea. I found that interesting that this church has started singing that song.
After church I stopped for gas. It was very crowded. I think everyone else had the same idea at the same time that I did. After getting gas, I went to a local bookstore to buy 2 magazines which tell what's happening in the city. They had a book sale, so I bought Mom a book for Christmas and got another half price which my book club will be reading this month. I also had a 30% off coupon which I applied to my purchase. The only way I'll buy books from now on is if they are on sale. I also use the county library system which saves money. You sometimes have to be put on a waiting list to get the book you want. I have 2 books from the library now, "Big Russ and Me" by Tim Russert and "The Soprano State" by Ingle and McClure. I had to wait for both books and the later has to be returned in two weeks. So, I guess that's the next book on my list to read.
The rest of this afternoon will be spent ironing. I have a weeks worth of outfits to iron. (Oh, how I HATE to iron!) But, I will bite the bullet and get it over with today. So, here's to ironing out ALL the wrinkles.

Wish I Knew

Today is going by quickly. I treated myself to a pedicure this morning and then went to a local linen store to buy a blanket for my bed. I stopped in a local restaurant afterwards and bought 2 round trip tickets to NYC. I'm having a house guest next week and she expressed an interest in seeing The Big Apple. I wish I had known sooner that she wanted to do that. I would have told her to extend her stay for 2 days and we could have gone to a matinee. It's kind of hard getting tickets for what we'd like to see at this point and there is no bus after the evening show which we'd need to get back home again. Oh, well, maybe the next time.

We Were Surprised!

My return from the shore was earlier today. There are always many emails to check and today was the day to pay bills which are due in the beginning of the month. I visited a friend tonight. We caught up on each others news and watched a DVD. Now I'm watching the 11:00 news.
Earlier this morning, my family and I sat by the t.v. anxiously awaiting the announcement of who John McCain's running mate would be. We were very surprised by his choice. None of us had ever heard of her. I'm not sure it was a good choice. Geraldine Ferraro didn't help Mondale win. I wonder if Ms. Palin can help John McCain win? I don't think she's ready to step in for the commander -in-chief at this point. Maybe down the road some time in the future. I do like Barack Obama's choice of a running mate. I've always liked Joe Biden. I wish he were on the top of the ticket instead of the VP choice. This election is going to be interesting to say the least. I still don't know who to vote for but I am leaning in one direction more than the other. Actually, I can't wait until the whole thing is over on November 5th.

The Weekend

This weekend starts today for me. I'm going to the shore to visit family. It's the Labor Day weekend. The unofficial end of the summer season. The weather is going to be good. I hope to start my exercise regiment again this weekend. I'll be walking every day. I look forward to a relaxing time with my family.

Working Again

Yea! I have a job again. I took a year off which I desperately needed. I'm now psyched about going back to work. I will be a substitute teacher in the town I live in. It's something I've done before. I had a career in education. The children in this town are really nice kids. For the most part, it was a pleasure working with them. The adults, from teachers to secretaries to custodians to administrators have also been a pleasure to work with. Of course, the "pay off" is pay day. It'll help me pay bills and enable me to put a little away in a savings account. Then when that rainy day comes, I'll have some money in the bank. I'm looking forward to a good year. Can't wait for the first pay check!

A Crystal Ball

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if there was such a thing as a crystal ball which could foretell the future? I wonder if it would be foretelling things which would be fixed in time or if one would have the power to effect changes in the future? If you didn't like what was predicted you could still do something about it. That would be the only type of crystal ball I'd want to foretell my future. Like Scrooge asked the ghost of Christmas to Come. " Are these the things that will be or are they the things that might be?" Remember how that story turned out? If it gave us the ability to make things better or turn them around I'd be all for it.

Gift Shopping

Today I started my Christmas shopping. I also bought an anniversary gift and a birthday gift. I went back to the gift shop I visited last week and bought several of the things I had seen when I went there. My sister and brother-in-law both have a birthday in September. I have 2 beautiful wine stoppers, a bottle of wine and a glass ice bucket to give them as a gift. What do you buy for someone who has everything? I have another beautiful wine stopper and a bottle of Merlot for my brother and sister-in-law. Their anniversay is Sept. 14th. My mother needs pretty coasters. I bought some which have a lighthouse motif. I'm saving them for Christmas. She lives by the sea you see. I also got a few other beautiful things which I have wrapped as gifts, but right now I have no idea who I'll give them too. If I need a gift in the future, I'll be ready!