Allentown Day 2

 

 

Our plans for yesterday afternoon changed by lunchtime.  Janis came home from WW at that point and we decided to have a snack (unhealthy lunch LOL) and decided to go to the Allentown Art Museum,  Where there were two exhibitions of interest The Art for Church and Home that included a tiffany window that had a small light show.  There was a quilt exhibition that we never made it to.  Both Jim and my energy level were waning.  We decided to come home.  Neither of us went to the gym or washed the car yet.   

We stopped to get iced coffee and then returned home to have a mid-afternoon snack.   We made plans for dinner.  Left over lasagna and salad.  Janis and I made plans to go to Aldi to get salad fixing after we had some quiet time. 

It was also just about then the so called “storm” was starting.  It was a light rain but no Thunder or lightening. Sunshine was short-lived, as clouds came back by 7 and it rained most of the night.

Janis planned to attend the Sheep and Wool festival in New Milford, PA, but her friend canceled, so now everyone is doing their own thing.   I might need a nap since I stayed up late updating files and calendars. 

Allentown Day 1

 

 

 

My trip down yesterday was nice.  I made a few stops before reaching the highway.  Gillion called me while I was at the bank and comparing routes and traffic levels.    I got on with little to no problem.  I stopped in Fairfield as traffic began to get heavier but was still moving.   A deer was visible in the middle of the day.  I appreciated that the deer remained safely away from the traffic.

I do not recall the exact time I arrived at Governor Cuomo's bridge, but the ride proceeded at a steady pace despite occasional periods when the speed seemed inconsistent. 

It was around lunchtime that I stopped for rest break in Pompton Lake.  I had lunch at a Wendy’s and another check in call from Gillion.  It made me feel good.  It was shortly after that I checked in with Laura in Old Saybrook.  She told me about the state dinner party she went to and how much she enjoyed it.

Approximately 86 miles remained before I arrived at my brother and sister-in-law's residence.   Although I tried to be patient, my impatience grew.   Near the end of the drive there seemed to be construction and probably school and early weekend traffic 

Just as I got into Allentown, Jim Called me and to see how it was going.  I told him I was 10 minutes away and I probably was less than that. 

When I arrived, Janis greeted me with a hug and laughter. Jim then came down on his new stairlift.   They love it.  I tried, but it failed.

We spent time catching up, and then around 4 we headed to Costco to get some things for the weekend (meals) and some clothes for Jim, and I got a new belt.  So that Jim would be nagging at me.  He was basically doing that while I chatted with his cat instead of people.

After visiting Costco, we returned home, ate some snacks, and ordered pizza.   Janis and I picked it up and then brought it home and we ate it and then dessert.  I offered to walk with Jim before it became too late, but I later withdrew my offer because I was tired.

I got ready for bed by 8 and Janis started some laundry for us.  I tried to sleep but by 10 I got back on the computer.  I was grateful that she helped me access the internet.

While Janis goes to WW Jim and I will take a walk at some point.  Then we will have breakfast. They may have some plans for us, but I’m not sure what they are or if they’ll change because a storm is expected this afternoon.

 

 

 

After talking with Jim mid-morning, we decided to get my car washed. After his online meeting, I’ll have time to shower and write, then we might go for a walk or visit a nearby museum.

The conversations we had were enjoyable.   He maintains a positive outlook on life and strives to live by it. He mentioned that he is not disappointed with me.   He’s not responsible for me.  He has said so much that I couldn’t begin to tell but it is in my brain or heart and I need to put into practice what works for me.      

 

Week One of my vacation is over

 

Good morning! It’s almost ten and it’s 77 degrees and cloudy.  We are supposed to get rain later this afternoon.  I hope its after I get home from Lunch and grocery shopping.

As the title of this essay (sue me) indicates, the first week of my two-week vacation is done.  I still have one more and I am looking forward to it.  A part of me got stuff done and as I sit here, I think could I have done more?  Probably, but I keep procrastinating.

Tomorrow, I am helping with ticket sales for the Ladies Guild Dinner on Tuesday. There was supposed to be the Milford

Walk Challenge, but I didn’t sign up for that.  Besides I haven’t been walking regularly to be in shape.  Monday, nothing planned.  A couple of doctor appointments, lab work, meetup, and a picnic next week.

Things are a little busy around the complex.  There have been a few trucks for    neighbors’ grocery deliveries.  Landscaping crew is trimming the bushes out back. 

It’s been several hours now.  I left after 10:30 and took the backroads and ended up having a slight delay for an accident.  It wasn’t a long wait but the Orange police had arrived as people were gathering and traffic moving slowly.

I got to the credit union and got money (really didn’t need it), then put waze on to get me to the restaurant.  Again, it took me to the side roads and pretty much avoided 95.

MaryA was there when I arrived.  We were going to wait until the resashentaurant opened but the manager let us in, and we sat down to wait for Miss Ann.  We chatted for a few minutes and then ordered. We started off with coffee, and then we placed our order.   I got the Onion soup, and then cobb salad with Chicken.  Ann got a Sriracha shrimp salad.  MaryA got a cheeseburger with onion rings, and she shared them.  We didn’t leave until maybe 1:30. 

We had a great time, we talked about work, and about families, and the homeless situation in around where Ann lives.  It was fun. 

It was starting to rain as we left.  Instead of getting on the highway, I drove along the shore and into Woodmont.  Then headed home.  It was evident that it rained a lot at the complex. 

When I got home, I wasn’t feeling well again.  It was happening at the restaurant too.  I didn’t do too much.  I stopped at Dunkin for the pumpkin Spice Coffee and muffin.  Came to $4.97.  I watched TV.  Did some odds and ends.     

Around quarter of five I was starting dinner.  I had fed Sky earlier.  It was just about then Liz called and asked if I would go with her to Wal*Mart to pick up her glasses.  As we were leaving the sky looked ominous and a short time later it started raining.  By the time we got back to Milford it was coming down hard.

We got home and the rain let up a little.  Liz dropped me off and I went inside and finished my dinner.  She went home and took it easy.  She was speaking this evening at her meeting. 

I watched TV, The Wizarding world marathon was on with the Harry Potter Movies, and Star Wars franchise, and of course NCIS.

I finally cleaned out one kitchen cabinet that’s been bothering me.  All the plastic baggies that had been laying on the floor of the cabinet I was going to save but decided to throw them out.

There is a lot more I need to do.

We just had more rain.  It was coming down hard at first but now barely hear it.

I think It is time to go to bed.

Today Zipped by

 

This seems to happen all the time.  Some days are slow as molasses while some days fly by.  Today is one of those days.

This morning after I did my text messages for the morning and watched a little tv.  Fed the furball and then went to Honda place and got my car serviced.  I ended up only getting the oil change. 

The other item (noise that sounds like a propeller) is an all day service call.  I must find another day to do it.  I hope to get it done while on vacation I was out of there as expected by 10:30. 

I came home and then went to My sister’s.  She asked me to go with her to Wal-Mart in Stratford, to get new lens in her a few of her frames.  I think it took about an hour and a half.

During that time, we chatted about things.  The optician who had been waiting on her and various stories of the family friends and plans to have dinner at a Thai Restaurant back in Woodmont.

I think it was nearly 12 when we got home Liz went back to her place to take a rest before PT.  I watched TV and had lunch.  Liz and I played Telephone tag because I thought she called me. 

As the afternoon progressed, I took a few showers.  Started not feeling well but by the time I went to bed I was feeling better. 

I worked on this entry and updated files.  I also got a ticket for Peabody Museum.  Earlier in the evening I contacted LG in Old Saybrook and made plans to go to the Museum on Thursday.

I had my session with Debra at 4:30.  We chatted about my birthday and vacation, family, and of course finances.  We agreed I am in a good space right now.  We will be doing a phone session next week, and not meet the week after but we will be doing zoom near the end of the month   I can’t wait to see her.

Well I am going to close out for now and finish watching NCIS and then go to bed.

Recently had a zoom meeting

 Last week the New England Chapter of the Linden Hall Alumnae had an informative chat with the Dean of Academics at Linden Hall School.  He shared about the classes the students are currently taking that include lots of college classes and others that interest them that are currently not being offered and they and they have made arrangements to get it done.  

I found that interesting but something that concerned me was Katherine’s comment that we are still not getting enough people to join the New England chapter.  She is afraid we may not be continuing and that would be terrible.

  This kickstarted me to contact Denise B from class of 1982 and see if she would be interested in helping the chapter.  I am not sure if she is though and maybe it will kickstart me into maybe contacting others in the state.

A few days later we received  a thank you  from the school for sponsoring Mt Gretna day.  I was unable to Contribute but there apparently was a substantial amount collected.  Mt Gretna Day is a day the entire School takes off in the fall and goes to a town (MT Gretna) that has fun things to do.  Skating, Food, games etc.  My memories are hazy now but I do remember some things and I am glad we went.

Katherine sent out email invitations for the final in person luncheon for the year.  Its up in Concord New Hampshire at the common man and these are the dates:

Saturday, November 11

Sunday, November 12

Wednesday, November 14

Saturday, December 9

Sunday, December 10

Wednesday, December 14

Unfortunately none of these dates work for me so I have already sent my regrets.  Why you ask? THe 11th is the celebration of Life for my coworker Denise.  Wednesdays I work.  I have meet ups the following week and its too close to other things I need to do here in the state.

I hope to kept being active in the group.  My hope also is that others join. 

Crazy end of September

 Wednesday was crazy. First I was beating myself up for sending emails to the wrong people regarding some of the mail.  When it was time to leave for the day, I left here hoping to get to the Bank and realized it was already closed. So I went to the highway,  unfortunately I made some wrong turns and ended up getting on at Long wharf.  I did stop for gas on the way into Guilford.

I was early to Shoreline diner and settled in and had some tea.  Subsequently the others joined.  THere were about 12 or 15 of us.  We all got something different and had great conversations.  I got some advice regarding vacuum cleaners (recommended by the Petsitter who ended up coming for a short time).

We all left by 8:30 and headed home.  I usually call Mama but the phone had a low battery and I didn’t want to deal with that.   WHen I got home I looked at the link and ordered the vacuum cleaner.  IT should be here Monday.  I hope I won’t be disappointed.

The rest of the night I did some straightening and cleaning.  Then I got ready for bed.  Eventually the titans came to bed as well.  They were getting feisty with each other too and woke me at 4.

Thursday was a busy day.  Both TD and I worked a few different things (she was finishing the cash posting).  I did work on the healthlogic mail for the 26th until I had to leave for my OB appointment.

Friday was pretty much the same thing.  That night I came home to find my front stoop all decorated and a sandwich and Pumpkin inside the door from none other than Dave.  So after feeding the cats and eating the sandwich I chatted with Dave.

Saturday was pretty rainy and so I stayed close to home.  Well I did go to the laundromat and grocery shopping but the rest of the day I did a little cleaning.  I did hear from Liz who has another cold.  I wasn’t forthcoming with news of Jim’s impromptu visit. 

Sunday I did some cleaning and counted the hours I would receive the new vacuum cleaner.  I slept some,  and then around 2 I got a call from Jim and we met at Panera Bread for lunch.  We had a good time.   We discussed Thanksgiving.  At first they teased and said they were  going to Ireland and I could take care of the cats.  In the end I will be getting to their house by 7 like last year.  Dinner from Wegmans the next day.

Liz did send me a coupon for Big Lots.  Then overnight she asked me about what year I graduated.  One of the FB pages for Woodmont listed all the various elementary schools in town and one was mine.

I went to bed early Sunday. All the things on TV were things I have seen a billion times.  I did get up a few times.  THe cats were nearby.  

This morning I somehow misplaced the phone.  I heard it ding but I looked everywhere and couldn’t find it.  I will try again when I get home.

Woke up late 09-12-21

 

This may be short as I am so tired.  After posting yesterday’s entry at 5 in the morning I went to sleep.   The cats were in a huff about that. We did our regular routine then went back to bed.  I woke up again around 8.

I downed about 4 cups of coffee before my sister came over at noon.  I spent the time watching TV, picking up here and there and then showered.

When Liz arrived, Tiger hurriedly headed to my room and sat under the bed while I found Sky under the blankets for the second time this weekend.  It was 80 degrees but I didn’t have the AC on but the fan.

When she said down she said she was in a mood.  I laughingly said well if that’s the case go home. I wasn’t cranky but I was exhausted.  We never gave into the threats.

We spent the next 4 hours talking about stuff.  We discussed how much we enjoyed the ghost/spirit walk Friday night.  My feet died by the end of the tour but I had the wrong shoes on.  Milford is very much haunted.  I also learned a lot about the town that I have lived in for most of my life.  There were 4 tribes along the river and the stories I heard were amazing.

She will be sending her regrets to Jim and Janis.  She is trying to figure out how she will say it without inflaming the situation that is been long standing.

I suggested that she tell them because of the status of Covid and her limited health she would not be attending.  We looked at a few B&B’s and hotels to stay.  As of this writing I will probably leave early Friday morning and get to where ever I pick to stay and then head to the services and reception.  I am not sure if I will get to spend much time with the couple.  I was planning on staying the entire weekend but I might just stay overnight. I still have a few weeks to plan on it.

After Liz left I finished putting the furniture blankets on the sofa and finishing the pecan pie I bought from Aldi’s.  It’s completely gone now.

My shoulder was starting to hurt again.  I took Tylenol and joint supplement and it felt better until I decided to have more cheese (the salt in it).  It feels better.  I have also taken the daily evening meds.

I took a walk around the complex.  It was a bit of a challenge.  Rapid heart movement and the breathing were not good.  I will try tomorrow morning before I head to work.

I watched part of the WETV NCIS Marathon today and until just now.  Some of the channels that do the marathons changed it up for this weekend so we were not sure when it was on or we got extra marathons.

This week should be fairly busy.   I am not sure how many of the CDs will be waiting for me tomorrow.  Someone was going to be doing it while I was out.  The scanning should be it semi normal level.  Although I understand AC is going to be out so I am not sure.

On Tuesday I have a long day.  I have a Dr.’s appointment so I will be leaving early from work.  Then after the dr.’s appointment I have the ladies guild dinner.

Wednesday is a normal work day and I am hoping to get to the Meetup that night.  I am thinking I will go straight to the meetup and feed the cats when I get home.

Thursday there is a union action at lunch time.  I am not sure what this one is about but Barbara will be getting me ride.

Friday starts the Eastern States expo but not going the first weekend.  It will be too crazy.  Some of us from the meetup will go towards the end of cycle.

Cyn from the Group is having a literary lunch.  I need to bring appetizers and something to drink.   I don’t have any books to bring.

The cats are now sleeping either in the living room or kitchen.  I expect them to come in here shortly. 

Tiger has been doing really great with the litterbox.  It’s been a couple of days since I had to pick up crap off the bathroom floor.

As I suspected the canned cat food I ordered should be here Tuesday.  I have the litter on auto delivery and that should be here the first week of October.

Well so much for being short or going to bed early.

 

 

 

 

Turning the clocks back

 

So did you all turn your clocks back?  I got up at 5:30 this morning to feed the cats and started to.  The first one was the stove and microwave. I have to change the one on the radio upstairs and the clock above the sink.  Over the years my family and I would either do it before we went to bed, or in the morning we would take the time out to do it.  Every time we did it I would think “well what time is it really?” and of course I noticed how it got dark earlier at night and how early the sun came up.  Sunrise isn’t for another thirteen minutes but it is starting to get light out. 

I was just reading this article from Reader’s digest about states opting out and what happens when we stop doing the changing of the clocks.  One thing the article says that crime goes down when we have Daylight savings time.  I don’t agree.  I think it can stay the same. 

I am not sure if I want to stop the Daylight savings to stop.  I like seeing the sun still out when I leave work and it stays out until 7 or 8.  It does seem to grow shorter every year though.  There is so much that you can do longer if you needed to.  I don’t relish losing the hour as much my whole Psyche goes awry at least that I have noticed lately.

Yesterday wasn’t a complete wash out.  I had a conversation with Jim.  He really wants me to stay somewhere else when I go to visit him.  He says he will look at the AirBnB’s near his place to see what they look like and see if they meet with his approval.  My one stipulation is that I don’t want to have still driven an hour more to get to see him.  The trip alone should be about 3 hours. 

Our next conversation was about finances and how I was doing with it.  He reminded me that doing minimum payments take a long time to pay off the debt.  I told him my hope is that he who will not be mentioned will allow me to use the money to pay off the debt.  WE also talked about the condo and where it is.  I have to send him the information on it again and I iwlll do that tomorrow at work.

After that I headed out to go shopping.  I went to target and got the Swiffer and a few other things.  Some medium sized bags for the poop baskets and bleach ($30 and change).  Then I went to pick up my prescriptions and that was a little more than I expected ($31 and change). Then I went to Aldi’s and got groceries.  That was $79 and change.  I am guessing the cookies and ice cream I could have done without. 

I did get more chicken and some ground beef and a pork roast but I am going to try and make this last and not waste it like I have been with the last chicken dish. I also got more frozen vegetables…the fresh stuff would just go to waste.   I haven’t touched the salad fixings. 

On the way home I took a ride to the condo.  I didn’t go in (felt too weird besides I don’t have a key) .  I wanted to see if my condo was an end unit or not.  It is not.  I can’t remember if there were blinds or shades in the windows either.  There was a food delivery going on the other side and some people coming home from something. I came home by 5 I think and fed the cats and just fixed myself cookies, coffee, and a bowl of cereal.    

The rest of the night I was watching TV, and saw the blue moon and sent pictures.  As I expected no one came down our street but I did hear people’s voices down the road a piece.  It would seem many did celebrate the night.  I read on one of the Milford FB pages that some members had many while others didn’t.  I guess that’s usually the way it is.

I did get a call from Vchair John Moffitt yesterday asking for help on Tuesday.  He asked if I could either do phone banking or Poll standing.  I chose poll standing for 3 hours.  I will have to put the time in tomorrow.  I also told him the news about me moving to the new place soon.  He did tell me it’s the 5^th District.  The same were TM and her husbands are.  Whoopee.  I am told the chairman for that district will not take crap from them.  In the end he wished me well and I would be missed.  It’s not as though I am moving to another planet. 

On that note, I am a bit annoyed that Kerri didn’t answer my email from Friday.  I know it’s a busy time for her but how hard can it be to say “Hey can’t answer that right now” but I will get back to you on that?

The cats are being exasperating.  The missed the target a few times this weekend (a couple).  They have been climbing to new heights lately as well.  I found Sky on Top of the Refrigerator yesterday and refused to come down.  Tiger was on the counter next to the refrigerator she doesn’t normally sit there.  Sky followed shortly afterwards.  I found Sky sleeping on top of one of my boxes that have kitchen on it.  I just found him in a box with cleaning stuff.  I have no idea where he is now.  I think Tiger went up to my bedroom.

Well I am going to relax for a little bit longer and then get going on the projects I need to do.  I hope I will not be disappointed in the Swiffer Mop.

 

 

Monday Musings Birthday Edition

 Today is my Birthday.  For years I think about my birthdays sometimes months in advance and think about what is going on in my life, where I am living, what my health is going to be like and eventually closer to death.  In the past it would  wake me up in the middle of the night hyperventilating.  I didn’t do it this year.  I just went to bed tired. Last Night and today I have been receiving lots of Birthday wishes, via FB, email, Messenger.  Makes me feel good.  Dave and I will have our annual Birthday dinner on Wednesday.  Junior and the kids stopped by with cupcakes that some of us ate right up.

Yesterday I went to the open house for this condo at Noon with Liz.  It met with mixed reactions.  I didn’t like the mailboxes that were out (they looked beat up), Liz thought the outside was tired.  The views of LI Sound were beautiful. Large Living room small kitchen new appliances, parking is out back and has a door for it.  Short stairways to the laundry area that is shared between the buildings and coin operated.  Storage area is good size but again shared.  I don’t have to worry about the cats.  There was a dog across the hall.  The other issue is even though we are up and away from the beach I am not sure I want to watch the waves come up over the hill.  Storms are not this neighborhood's friend.

I had to cancel an appointment for one in Dave’s complex (literally across the footpath) because I have to let Cheryl schedule them (legally or otherwise) not sure the reasons but I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize that.  Dave has been really funny. He is looking also and sent me links to several that Cheryl has sent me.

As a matter of fact the next Condo Tour is on Thursday at 5:20.  I spoke to Cheryl last night and by this morning she had it scheduled.  I pointed this condo out to Liz when we drove by it yesterday.  This morning I invited her to join us if she felt up to it.

After the condo tour yesterday Liz and I headed back to the house to do a few hours of clearing out.  The dining room was done and we left some personal stuff in the tote that will go with me to wherever the new place is.  Liz and Andrea did the books and pictures in the office but late last night after stubbing my toe (and probably breaking it) It's still messy and not organized.  I was really aggravated by it.  We did have a lot of stuff for the garbage and good will.  That I have to still take

I spent the afternoon doing more shredding in my old bedroom (that’s probably going to be the next clearing out beside the bedroom I currently use. The bathroom will be done last.  We will then move on to the Kitchen and bathroom downstairs.  I still have more to do but I was to damn tired last night.  I will finish what I have in the Samsonite and then in the totes in my old bedroom.  I want Liz and whomever is going to help to guide me.  

I tried to stay up a couple of nights earlier in the weekend to finish shredding or make a dent but it didn’t work.  It messed up my entire days and energy level and focus the rest of the time.  The shredding is a variety of things.  The whole entertainment collection including Kevin Sorbo fandom (which I mention in the entertainment blog), some pen pal files and folders (that I end up sending updates to.). I have kept pictures that I like but also the greeting cards I have gotten over the years I tossed.  I am not spending the time scanning any of this stuff as it would take too much time for me.  However, as I have said going forward I will be scanning them.  I would like to get an hour’s worth of shredding done tonight before I go to bed.  I have to make a good will run after I see Debra.

I have told almost everyone on the street the situation.  Some felt bad for me and think he who will not be named is an asshole as well.  They wished me luck and offered to help if needed. I actually have two more to tell but in time.

The cats have been enjoying their time up in the attic.  I tried a couple of times to get them to come down unsuccessfully.  Besides, I have to go up to get the remaining shredding items.  They don’t understand why there's so much in the back room though.

Work is going well.  We have the new courier service starting tomorrow.  It should be much better than the last one and its in-house.  We have a meeting tomorrow to review what Donna does while she is on vacation and I will be doing the mail.  Especially with the new methods and directions.  Donna originally told me I can open and daily the daily stuff (that goes in batches) but the rest she can do when she gets back.  Well I don’t think that’s going to happen.

The scanning work is all coming back to me and it feels good to be doing that again.  Its been so long (with the problems connecting, and the time away).

Man am I beat

 

Well when we last met I discussed the past week’s activities and the plans for yesterday

I went to meet with Alex for our second to last session (Tuesday will be the final one) he tells me I still have two more weeks I can do the classes.  He will also be discussing with the gym manager about allowing me to “cash in” if you will my points that I have collected over the years and possibly get two months of free classes.  In the mean time I will attend class until the end of the month. 

I told him all the things I ate this week (well except the brownie) and why I hadn’t made it to the gym.  We discussed grocery budgets and the best foods.  He did say to have rice but not the minute rice but uncle Bens.  We discussed what would be good and just what to do with diet and the choices.

After wards I headed home.  I still had about an hour or so before Liz came over.  We talked earlier via text.  She needed to come later (and I agreed).  This gave me time to do some more laundry and straighten up a little bit more.  As I told her I was afraid it would stress and she said no.  She wasn’t going to Judge and if she didn’t like all she had to do is go home and leave it behind. 

We spent a few minutes organizing and talking about the move and stuff.  We started off in the guest room.  We have tagged stuff to be either saved or taken out.  We got rid of stuff that needed to be sent to good will or the trash.  We finished just a little after 4.

Liz was put out by the way Next door’s driveway was.  I explained in order to have that the new shack he had to measure and it came out that he owned it.  She thought he was a little rude.  I think she may have forgotten the conversation she had with him years ago.

 

 

She also didn’t like the fact the neighbors across the street park in front of my house all the time and ask why they don’t park in front of theirs.   I reminded her they can park where ever they want.  She isn’t the only one who says this to me when they come over but (this was the first time in a couple of years she has been here) I personally want to get into it with them.  They don’t live here and my sister should know better. 

She also doesn’t like the way my Cleaning lady does the cleaning.  I do but not this week.  I did end up telling Livia last week there are changes coming regarding the house.  I may have to reconsider her as my cleaning lady.

Anyway back to purging story.  We spent about an hour and half ID’ing and emptying out crap I don’t need from the guest room and the attic stairway.  Between the two of us deciding and emptying I got tired.  AT one point Liz says she was doing all the work she stopped herself.

We had at least three bags of crap for the garbage, recyclable, and good will.  She did say to me that my nephews Mike and Bryan will come and empty or take the stuff out or get a dumpster.  I had told her earlier I saw some coupons for that 1-800 Got Junk Company.  That could also be an alternative.

At the end of that we discussed what should be done next.  We will be doing this for the next several weekends and during the week.  In subsequent texts she reminded me to text my niece D and tells her I have stuff of her father’s and asked if she wants it.  Then text Jim and ask about pictures we found of his wedding to C and of the kids coming to America when they were adopted.  Some of these were in Letters to Mom. 

She also suggested that as we go along find boxes to collect again and make the sunroom the packing location.  It doesn’t have to be done right now but as we go along.

Liz seems to think we should do the attic and cellar next and the Kitchen and other rooms later.  That they will take the longest to clear out and put away eventually.  Once that’s done maybe call Cheryl and begin the search process. 

She reminded me earlier when we were talking of what to keep or let go that I won’t have that much money to get things.  A part of me can’t help think even though she wants me in a safe and good place that she is expecting me to be restricted in many ways.  Of course I will be restricted but I am not comfortable with what she is expecting or hoping.

She also told me as much as Jim is being good with her about this she doesn’t really trust him.  That he has hurt her too much and really doesn’t believe he will continue to be helpful or whatever.  I was worried at how long this Détente would last.

As I was leaving for Good Will I saw next door and told him what the end results of the activities last week.  I had already told him about Lawyer man’s behavior.  He asked when do I expect to put the house up and I told him wasn’t sure but probably the holidays.  He was kind and said He was sorry to see me go.

I am holding off telling the other neighbors for now.  I am sure they were wondering what I was doing yesterday.  I am holding off because I do share way too much and as you know back pedal on decisions.

When I texted D about her father’s things I also told her that I changed my mind about moving and that it wasn’t financially feasible.  She asked me what changed my mind and so I called and left a voice mail.  I don’t remember if I told her how much debt I was in.  Afterwards I had visions of her calling Jim demanding we fight lawyer man.  I also hoped she would call me back so I could fill her in with what I told her.  I know I left out some stuff.

I heard from Mama Roberta last night.  We are still waiting on news about Dr. T and her recent tests and surgery.  I also told her of the decision to acquiesce to lawyer guy.  I will tell her more in our semiweekly check in later on Sunday.

The rest of Sunday was supposed to go to class but I am not making it but will exercise. 

I have some errands to make and then plan some grocery shopping to do.  I told Liz what my plans for budgeting and revising grocery stuff and wardrobes and stuff.

I may just relax for the day and get ready for the week ahead.

I am also very pleased that Authoress51 and I will be pen pals.  I have been following her on her blogs now for quite some time and we actually met via Zoom at the Meetup virtual Trivia games this past spring. 

Speaking of pen pals this guy sent me and a few others a pen pal request and it really was unpleasant.  Two people chastised him and demanded that he not contact them.  I put in my two cents and asked not to be included and I apologized to those he offended and wished them well.  For some reason one of them reposted the original email.  I just deleted it.

The weather right now is not making me move fast.  It’s overcast and expected some rain.   The temps seem cooler than in the past week.  I still have the AC on.

An Active Day

Good Morning! It is a sunny beautiful Sunday morning.  It is 75 and going to get hotter.  I will be leaving in about 2 hours for the solo walk in Maclean Nature Preserve in Granby.  I was just reading some of the comments from members and overall they loved it.  One had to back out because of the heat (oh and two of them did it yesterday and the other did it last week sometime.  It is supposed to be equally hot up there but one of the participants said she went at 10 yesterday and it was lovely.

When I spoke to Alex about this he said to be sure to drink lots of water and prepare for this hike.  I am trying to drink some water now and will have a protein shake or two before going but I plan on bringing Jell-O and pudding with me.  (I can’t have any real solids just yet).

I am not sure how many I am taking (it’s a two hour hike and easy) so probably not much there is a farm/brewery near there (no not going there to drink but will look around).  I won’t stay long as I need to be back in time for the family zoom catch up.

So how was your Saturday?  Mine was good.  I ended up not going to class and Alex texted me asking why. Unfortunately I didn’t see it until he asked me to come in for 10:30 so I got ready and left.  WE had a good session I told him how the week went and how much I walked.  I also told him about the tooth adventure.  After the session I stayed for a half hour cardio.  

 I went to NAPA auto and picked up a windshield solar shield for the car and I am really disappointed in it.  It doesn’t stay in place.  There is no way to tie to something to make it stay in place and I ended up paying a little more than I wanted to (11 cents). 

Why is it that no matter what I do anything I bring in to the house or my life there is ultimately something that doesn’t work right?  Last month it was that piece of shit Fitbit, this month it’s the solar shield.  In the past it has been some wire for the TV when I first got it. 

The rest of the afternoon I was relaxing and then I went grocery shopping.  I got mostly Jell-O and puddings for today.  I also got coffee creamer for work and some chicken, pork, and lamb for the day I can eat normally again.  I also got some eggs because I will be eating that until then.  Not much else after that.  I will still need more milk and sweetener.

When I came home I fed the kitties and watched T V until about 8 or 9. 

Neighbors to the back of me had a birthday party in their yard for what I am guessing a family friend.  They did the social distancing and preparing for it for the last two days.  It was very nice.  Not loud or boisterous.  The only thing is one geust brought Their Yorkie. One who apparently can snap?  Really?  You would bring a dog that snaps to a party?  Anyone who has followed me on blogs knows I love dogs (well most of them) but I also know how dangerous it can be.

My god doggie and her parents came home yesterday afternoon from their vacation.  I missed them I haven’t had a chance to say good morning or welcome back but that will have to be for later.

 

 

Need to rethink my day

We did our normal routine this morning and I decided to lay down for at least an hour.  JOC and I were supposed to go for a walk at 8:30 and while I was showering and getting ready she sent me a text.  Telling me she would have to bale.  So I have been slow on moving and resorting to watching TV again.

It is overcast right now and 70 degrees out and it feels nice.  The forecast is calling for showers today.  My front yard looks great or at least better but the back yard not so much. I may have said this but I would much prefer that Mother Nature do the work instead of me hauling the hose all over the place.  Besides that our water authority (which is the water company) is asking the residents of the city not to water the lawns right now.  The water has been brown in some areas.

Supervisor Bob sent out an email to the staff recalling us to work on Monday.  He did say some of us will be moved around to follow social distancing requirements.  This will be very interesting.  I am wondering if I will still have my scanning desk.  I have a feeling the first few days I am back will be focusing on the mail and later on the scanning.

I played some Words with Friends this morning and this guy from NY started chatting with me.  I guess I decided to play against him and I am now feeling like I am breaking a rule I made. I mean I play with my male cousins so that’s okay but if they use this as a way to get dates they will be in one huge disappointment.

 A woman named Moriah from NY joined the finding friends for Women Meetup group contacted me.  We chatted this morning.  I asked her if she was attending the meetup tomorrow night but she said no.  I am not sure what she meant the assignment. So those alarm bells are starting to go off like they did a few years back when some very odd women wanted to chat with a few of us on a few different platforms.  I get really uncomfortable when People od that.  A few men somehow got to comment on group activities.  It’s a group for women.

I have been debating whether or not I should go and do my grocery shopping now or wait a few more days.  I have enough meals (fish stuff) but I still need sides.  I am not big on making salads but eating them I am.  I also need milk and cream for the coffee. Black coffee doesn’t work for me.

I chatted with DO today about the holiday and diet.  He keeps asking what Alex believes is good.  He wants me to eat to survive.  Not everything has to be enjoyed.  I think he understands now.  He suggested oatmeal when I told him I haven’t had cereal.  He asked me what recommendations Alex make for diets.  (I think I wrote that two different ways to mean the same thing). 

I went to the committee meeting this afternoon.  What I have found out is my colleagues on my team are objecting to having to return to the office.  They can’t do their job from home and they feel they should be able to.  Committee members feel these people should come in and do their job.  BV is urging compassion.  I am guessing they (those who don’t want to come in) feel it’s not safe to go into the office.  There will be social distancing.  I pointed out this is the same issues that started back in March.  BV says that future contracts will perhaps one day have to include working remotely.   From what can gather they will be talking to those people in our area about the choices they have or what the path will be taken.

It’s been a couple of hours now and I reviewed what I have to do for class tomorrow and it’s going to be a pain the ass.  I am going to have to go to it an hour earlier and whatever I needed to print out I won’t be able to.  I want to be able t make sure I connect to whatever soon.

The cats were annoying me and I yelled at them.  They wanted to get fed and its not their dinner time or wasn’t.  Now they won’t get near me (I also tried to catch tiger and she hissed at me)..I have been trying apologize to them like they would understand and right now they are running from me.  I am probably acting stupid but I am not feeling very appreciated by them right now.

 

 

 

 

Peaceful Morning

I am having a very slow start to the day.  It’s cloudy and 72 degrees right now and is expected to get in the mid-80s.  It might get really sticky weather wise. 

I probably should take a walk before it does get too humid.  I have already cancelled today’s class.   I have until 4 to get there.  It actually closes at 5 and in order for me to do cardio I would need an hour.

There are a lot of posts and shared posts of the various displays across the city and even in the blogosphere.  They looked great.  What I don’t get is when people see the videos they ask?  When, where?   Followed by I thought they were cancelled.  Well hello?   Wouldn’t you think it would be from privately citizens (that’s an oxymoron).  There are also lots of posts condemning those who are shooting them off on behalf of their pets.  I am not heartless but you know they go off this time of year.  You all need to prepare for it.  If I had a dog or the cats really objected (I couldn’t tell if I tried) then I probably would.  I was annoyed they were still going off after 10.

I just did ask myself why do we set them off and this article pretty much explains it.  Forest Wickman says there are many reasons besides tradition but then it also points there are firework haters.  I don’t necessarily hate them I do get nervous at the loud noise at times.  I sometimes get worried that if neighbors decide to shoot them off in their back yard and one happens to stray on to say my garage I don’t think I would be happy.   I also feel bad for the animals that it does affect.  Even the wild animals will be affected.

Played Words with Friends both versions and did pretty well but I am still finding myself getting frustrated with the various ads that turn into downloading some app for something.  It’s a weather app and I have one already thank you.  I keep thinking all the games are related and it seems that if you are playing on Messenger it’s not the same as in the apps.  I am still trying to get to play with Mama on the apps but it says I have nudged them and still waiting.  Yet in the Messenger she is playing.  It looks like once you start playing on messenger you can’t use messenger to contact anyone else.  It is very frustrating.  All these I consider problems take away the fun of playing.

I do need to get a few things at the store and then pay the bills that need to be paid.  These would be the car tax, property borough taxes, and I think that’s it.  I totally forgot the car payment.  I sent it out Friday I hope it gets there soon.

I am hoping I get a schedule soon.  Unfortunately Supervisor Bob is off until tomorrow.  I sent him an email letting him know I took the Harassment in the work place class.  The embracing change one is on Wednesday.  I have to be sure to focus.  They won’t see us or we won’t see them.  I will apparently be doing some writing (crap.)

Well its lunch time and I need to run some errands.  I keep getting prescription ready alerts from the pharmacy.

 

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