I am home

 

Right about this time (4:45 Eastern) I would be either on my way or waiting for the others to arrive at our weekly Meetup at the diner in Guilford.  Unfortunately, everyone had other things they needed to do.  So, they will have it next week.  I hope.  I won’t be there though.  The next time I will see them is Mother’s Day weekend for the two Brunches each day.  One is at Gouviea Vineyards and the other will be at Faith’s home.

Right now, it seems that Gil and Faith are working on the Book Club event.  It looks like Gil worked on it for most of the night last night and now faith is having a little bit of a probable adding a person.

Today was pretty good.   I got all my work done before noon.  I had lunch from the Orchids café  Down the Street.  Then for the rest of the day I did some clearing out of emails, updating calendars.

I got home at 4:30 and checked on Sky in the spare room.  I fed him and then worked on the sauce.

The sauce appeared burnt but tasted great.  I have enough for lunch tomorrow.  I also have more to add to the next batch next week.  I plan on making a bit more than what I had so I can store it.  I cleaned up the dinner and will finish the rest of the kitchen later. 

I have ground beef and chicken I need to prep for future meals as well.  They are both in the freezer and I must prepare the remaining steaks I got too.  That will be for later meals.

I also threw a blanket in and started laundry.  I don’t know how much more I am going to do tonight because I am starting to wilt.

I am currently sitting on my patio writing this entry.  It’s so beautiful right now.  I have most if not all the windows open in the house.  It’s 70 degrees out and I’m not sure how long that will be for.

Well I have a few more things to do before I go to bed.  Have a great night.

 

had a lovely time last night

 

 

We had a great time at the restaurant. We had our dinner.  I had New England chowder and   grilled Shrimp with angel hair pasta, with Sun dried tomatoes and spinach and lots of garlic.  Liz had her standard chicken Parm and had a dessert.

We were there for about an hour.  We talked about the Grove Street news that we learned this week.  I am not sure if I mentioned this earlier, but my family home is up for sale.  It would seem the couple who bought the house and did an absolutely wonderful job with updating  the house, have separated.  Their friends that live down the street are moving as well.  Their reason is the family is getting bigger and moving to another part of town.

We also caught up with family activities between our cousin in Asheville, the rest of the Rivera clan, and Cheryl’s family (My Niece). 

It was still daylight when we left for home.  I fell asleep for an hour and that’s when Liz called, and we did a quick run to Staples. To drop off stuff that needed returning. 

When I got back, I watched TV and then went to bed. 

Today Liz is having or by the time this gets posted breakfast with My Nephew Rich and then having lunch with her sister in law. 

I am going to the nursing home and see if I play bingo.  It feels like I haven’t been there in a long time.

When I get back I am hoping to get the house cleaned so that I don’t worry about it when I leave for Allentown on Friday. 

 

So today

by katiegirl06460July 3, 2024

Hey everyone .. another Random post.

Today starts the busy holiday travel.  I hope that if you do that, you are safe and enjoy.  Personally, I think many left earlier around here.

So my questions are:

Will you travel?

Where do you go?  Camping? Friends houses’ resorts beaches?  

Do you work on Friday?  I am .   Next year it lands on Friday  so I may take Thursday off

I had a great time

 

I got to My Sister and BIL’s house just about 1.  I was happily surprised to find not only Jr.’s family there but my nephew Adam and his family and my Nephew Rich!  It was fun watching the kids playing and having fun.    I was able to chat with Liz.

Got to chat with Liz and talked about various subjects including the recent   animal sightings throughout the city and state.  WE also talked about the sneakers (she liked them).  I wasn’t pleased by two more things she was chatting about.

The first one was some cute things I shared about cats.  She was questioning about the lost and found animal posts I had on my news feed on FB.  She wondered if they were local.  I state in state and that if my friends who may be in whatever town it is in.  It felt like a judgement.  She didn’t say anymore but the look on her face spoke volumes.

She was also asking about the scholarship in Mom’s name.  I told her it should be soon but I don’t know much about it.  I explained we may not have it to give this year and immediately she jumped to conclusions that they were mismanaging it.  I told her the way we get the money for the scholarship is fundraisers and collections and we haven’t met in per son to be able to to do that scholarship and its yearly.  We don’t always carry over.  That silenced her quickly.

I stayed for a short time longer and then came home and got extremely lazy and fell asleep at one point.  I went to bed early.

 

A Nice Holiday Dinner

 

                                                                                                                                        December 25, 2020

 

 

Dear Debra:

                  Hey just wanted to let you know I had a nice afternoon with Liz and Nelson and Rich.  He was very helpful in the kitchen taking care of things.  It was still raining when I got there.   We didn’t have dinner until about 2 or shortly after that.  However, I nearly scared Liz and Rich when I told thm I have had headaches for the last couple of days.  I had already taken Tylenol and was hoping it would be gone quickly and it was. 

                  Before we sat down and had dinner Jen’s Brother and SIL and little niece stopped by for a visit.  It was a short visit to be sure but it was fun nonetheless.  We had our dinner after that.   I was surprised with gifts.  Liz gave me hand warmers (those things you put into gloves to keep your hands warm), some chocolate candy and those $5 scratches off tickets.  Do I need to mention I didn’t win?

I got a beautiful handmade cutting board from Rich.  He says I can consider it a house warming gift instead of a Christmas gift and a very funny card “the three wise cats”.  J

Before I left for home Jim called Liz (he had also called me but I left my phone home).  Liz told him the baby news, and how covid is affecting daily routine up here for them and the family.   I talked with him too.  Before they hung up they discussed the situation with Lawyer Bob.  We sent letters and the next thing will be a registered Letter.  I have to wonder if she realizes I just sent the email this afternoon to these people (uh well most of them) instead of yesterday when she told me to.  So I don’t expect them to respond as quickly as she would like.  At the same I am expecting a “fuck you” from one of them.

Oh during my conversation with Jim I had learned that he heard from Kristian and Emily while he had dinner with his lady Janis and her kids (adult children).  I am not sure why he didn’t hear from James but I guess I will find out when we speak on the phone over the weekend.

I think it was nearly 5 when I got home the cats were waiting by the door for me and made it clear they were not happy that I was late with their dinner.  So I had to unload my leftovers and treats, gifts and get their dinner. 

While they ate I did a few things and got on the net.  At first I couldn’t stay connected and I was afraid there was something wrong with my system but it seems to be working now.

 I think I am going to go to bed now.  I managed to get tired.

 

Thanksgiving Week 2020

 

Wednesday was the beginning of the Holiday week for me. Liz and I began some of the phone calls that we needed to get done prior to the move were started that mid-morning. We worked on it for a couple of hours.  It was frustrating and aggravating. One of the issues was dealing with the UI.  We couldn’t discuss closing the current account on the house because it was under Mom’s name.  So Liz would later send me the death certificate and I forwarded to the address the woman gave me. Liz had to leave around 2 because she had a baking activity with a friend’s daughter at her home.   The rest of that day I crashed I think.  That was before I did some shopping.

Thanksgiving morning was quiet.  I watched TV.  I believe Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter was on that morning Just before I left for Liz and Nelson’s I stopped at the Store to get another quart of Ice cream.  I believed the one I had gotten the day before (that’s right I did some snack shopping the night before!) wasn’t going to be enough.  It turned out to be fine.  I got to their house just after 1:30.  Nelson was in the sun room resting he wasn’t feeling well.  Rich was cooking and Liz on the phone I think.  We ate around 2:30 and about 3 we had the zoom chat.  After the chat we cleaned up and Nelson rested in the bedroom and we chatted while Liz and Rich played gin.  It was around 5 when I headed home.

The rest of the night was quiet. Watched TV and eventually went to bed.

Friday was another day of finalizing any changes for the move (we made the decision to go with a moving company that took a couple of days to send a itemized bill) (they claimed they did but Liz seems to think she gave them the wrong email.  WE couldn’t resolve the UI issue because they didn’t receive the death certificate so they sent me another email address.  I know they got it the second time.  Liz will call them tomorrow to clear up that issue and the one they said they need to the meter at the condo to start that service.  By the time we finished with everything. I had a headache and I was exhausted.  I didn’t do much the rest of that afternoon until halfway through the night I started to clean the house. 

Saturday morning I tried to do much of the house cleaning in preparation for my visit with my Friend Lisa. I had to make a couple of trips to the store for lunch fixings.  Lisa Arrived a little earlier than expected but I didn’t mind.We spent the next hour and half visiting.  I showed her around the house (she remembered that I had the backroom as my room) and the sleepovers we had. She reminded me that they left their house on New Haven Avenue in 1972 and then moved to Hawley for the next several years.  We walked down memory lane and caught up with news.  She even told me the one girl who lived across from her on Hawley ended up dying from overdose.  I was exhausted and fell asleep for a while. 

This afternoon was the extra family chats.  I was really looking forward to it and was slightly disappointed that not everyone was there but at the same time I had Judy to myself. We talked about the holidays; they had dinner outside and her sister Kathleen came down from NY.  We talked about the pandemic and how it is affecting our states and local areas. We talked about Nextdoor website.  Around quarter of we finished up and a part of me wondered if I was a little over the top. 

I was updating my budget earlier today and I checked the credit card and noticed that the moving company charged my credit card twice.  I have enough in that account.  I sent a message to Liz to ask if I should be concerned.  She hasn’t responded.  I personally want to call these people and tell them to refund the money.  I am not getting good vibes from this. Liz replied and told me to text them (I emailed them) and tell them about it and forward everything to her including my latest statement.  I sent her the summary instead and explained why there were two “Asian market” entries) anyway I got a reply from jay telling me that he only sees one entry. 

The weather this holiday has been unseasonably beautiful.  Wednesday was a bit cloudy and in the low 50’s, Thursday morning we had heavy rain over night and for part of the day. The sun eventually came out late in the day.  Friday came back into clouds but it was low 60s.  I can’t remember if the sun eventually came out or not.

Saturday was mostly sunny except at the beginning of Lisa’s visit but came back quickly.  The sun was out until 4:30. It was the same today as well. 

Looking forward to the next two weeks, it will be cloudy for most of the week.  According to the weather report there is severe weather coming tomorrow mid-day.

I am feeling tired but I don’t think I will be sleeping anytime soon, I had coffee earlier this evening.

The Rain Came Later

Well I made it to class and did the best that I could.  It was SGT which means having partners,  I thought I was going to die but the most important thing to remember is to keep moving.  Luckily the weather held out for us to work out outside.  Everyone was saying it was going to start raining by 11. Meh.

Alex let me know that he would be leaving at 11:30 so we would not be having our session today. So the next session will be Tuesday.  I promised I would walk when I got home.  We had a discussion after I used the in-body and that was highly disappointing.  What did I expect?  I had too many wings, I still swig the creamer and probably put too much in my coffee.   Not getting enough exercise.  My plan to go to the gym every day has been less than stellar.   So when I got home got some more water and went to the bathroom and took off for a walk.

The walk was about an hour.  I ran into a classmate of mine so we chatted for a short time.  After a while I went on ahead and the called DO because I thought it was funny we were remembering him from school.  So For the next hour I talked with Dave.   At one point this woman who was walking her kid and pit bull started walking by me and the dog was walking towards me and I asked her to pull it back.  She got snotty and I told her I asked her nicely and she got snotty again and I said F*ck you.  Of course there was a family behind me and I apologized.  There was a minor present.  I don’t know why I reacted towards the Pitbull because as DO reminded me I like dogs.

It started to rain on my way home from my walk but it didn’t last long.  The sun came back out for a while and didn’t do anything for several hours until about 4.  It came down hard twice and the sun came out both times.  I have a feeling it will do this for the rest of the night.

I signed up for Paige’s early morning class for 8 but I cancelled it because I just don’t want to get there that early.  I am on a waiting list for Dan’s class.  If I can’t get into it I will just do an hour of cardio because Its supposed to rain again tomorrow.

  I love my niece most of the time and I am tolerant of my older siblings views on her and her tirades but this one time I wanted to bitch slap her.  She is going to tell people what she thinks of them not wearing a mask.  Good idea. Let me know how the fuck that works for you.  Oh and let me know what hospital you will be in if they shoot, stab or beat the shit out of you.  She seems to think she is entitled to say whatever the fuck she wants.   If the link works you will see my reply to her.  I am sorely tempted to show her this.  I am pretty sure it will go over like the proverbial lead balloon.

I did post it to my FB time line and have had some responses.  I guess I did it because there had been a number of posts demanding people to wear masks and they seem to be strident and rude about.  Apparently there was an issue at Trader Joe’s in California that went Viral.  From what I gather the people on my time line think the woman was out of line.  I would say those who were harassing her were out of line.  I would file a complaint with the head of the company.

I had lunch around 12:30 from Bonfire Grill through Grub hub.  I decided to have a California Grilled Chicken it had tomatoes and avocado and cheese and lettuce.  I also ate the fries.  I left the bread off.  However I am not planning on having dinner.

I spent most of the afternoon surfing the net while the TV was on in the background, took a nap, and showered.  I took a nap and fed the cats. 

The kitties hung out today, between the back room, the cellar, and by any window or door they can look out to watch the door.  Of course they started their caterwauling around 3:30 to be fed.  They didn’t get fed until 5 after my shower.  Sky did sleep behind me and just got up to do something.

Well This old house is on and I haven’t seen in a while. 

 

 

The Best time

I had the best time yesterday.   I left here a little after 10 and headed to Killingworth.  Unfortunately some trucker from Unifirst was being obnoxious by blowing his horn at me.  Admittedly I wasn’t speeding but I may have slid into his lane inadvertently.  Not my finest moment.

It was just about then when I realized I could get the phone map to play through over the Bluetooth and I didn’t have to hold the phone or keep looking over at it.  Then again the phone was going wonky throughout the day so a few of the aps didn’t work for me.  Like the map my walk and my pedometer wigged out on me too.

The route to the farm was becoming familiar as it was close to my Nephew Jr. and his family’s home.  There were plenty of hills and beautiful homes. 

 I arrived to the farm shortly before the agreed time.  G, and a few others were waiting.  Eventually others arrived and we began walking around the pond.  There were little garden set ups along the path and they were adorable.  I took a few pictures of that and the giant Chess board and we walked through gardens and it was just a lot of fun.  When we finished walking around some of the ladies went into the small shop that had the various items infused with lavender.  When they were finished we went to our cars and headed to Niantic.

At this point the phone was continuing to have a hissy fit and making me frustrated.  The route from the farm to Niantic was the most rural and beautiful area ever.  While I was admiring the beauty around I was becoming increasing worried because the gas was low and there was no gas station that I could see for miles.  Not even on route 9 and or 95.  The last service area is Madison CT.  I did find a station about 5 minutes before going into Niantic and I was relieved.

AS I drove down Main Street I could see the ladies all waiting in front of the Candy shop.  I ended up parking in the credit union parking lot across the street.  It was busy even though it was post pandemic.  We waited a little longer and then began the walk along the board walk.  Everything was beautiful.  There were people on the beach, in the boats.  WE could even see the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant in Waterford.  I don’t know how long it took us to get to the end and then walk over to the side where it would take us downtown.  We had to wait for one person who had trouble walking.  I felt bad for her because I have been there.  We eventually lost her by the time we got to Dad’s Restaurant.  I guess it’s a popular restaurant.  I got a seafood salad sandwich (didn’t eat the bread) but most of us sat on the edge of someone’s front yard. 

A few of the ladies had to leave early and so many of us headed back towards our car.  By the time we got to the candy shop it was JackieB, G, and I and eventually G’s hubby joined us and we talked for another hour or so after we had ice cream.  I think it was five by the time I headed home and was hoping to find a place for coffee because by then I was tired.  I got Coffee in Branford because the Madison rest stop didn’t have a drive through. 

It was about 6 when I got home and the cats were indignant.   I fed them, finished my coffee, called Liz and then started dinner, and started separating some of the meat I got on Friday.  I was impressed that I actually pushed through the exhaustion to do it.  I cleaned up the kitchen and just about 9 came upstairs to listen to the Saturday night radio program.

Unfortunately I didn’t really sleep because of the coffee and the lots of things on my mind.

Today was equally beautiful.  I got up fed the critters, and decided to sleep again and then decided to prep more food that I didn’t finish last night and then cook a roast.  The chicken is still waiting in the fridge and that will be tomorrow’s project.

I finished the laundry and straighten up the kitchen and then decided to call Dave. 

We spent two hours talking about stuff.  He was asking me questions about the diet and nutrition and I tried to explain how and what AW believes in.  He was asking me about prices for Personal training and I really couldn’t answer him.  He didn’t understand why I didn’t just cook the stuff when I needed it.  Because by the time I want to eat it could go bad.

The rest of the day I flaked.  I had one of the pork patties I made yesterday and watched TV.  I slept or got on the computer late in the day.

This week is bulk pick up so I put some stuff out.  I think they are picking it up on Thursday I hope.  I was going to put more out but it’s the old Cuisinart and it has sharp blades.  I may just take it to the transfer station this week.

Liz was asking me about the lawn service I use now so I gave her the information last night and texted her morning to see if she got but never replied.  I really wish she would acknowledge it.  They came while I was at the meetup. 

 I don’t believe it…Tiger spent some time sleeping next to me tonight.  Maybe it’s the treat I gave her earlier today.  Let’s just hope I don’t find another hairball like I did when I came home yesterday.  I think Sky ate the ribbon from something and it was on the ledge in the back room.

I did manage to fend off male pen pals again.  I am reviewing the potential pen pal list I have.  I am waiting to hear from the most recent ones.  I updated the pen pal blog as well.

First Post Pandemic Meetup

Today is my first in person or live meetup since the pandemic shut down everything.  The Finding friends group will be going to Lavender Pond Farm and then to Niantic Boardwalk for an afternoon activity.  I am so looking forward to this even if my brother and sister are thinking otherwise.  I told them about it Friday morning and they didn’t think it was a great idea or they didn’t think it was a great idea for me to go back to the gym yet.    I haven’t been to Niantic and its right on the Connecticut River.   We have the option to bring our lunch or buy something there.  I will be taking pictures and taking precautions.

The weather is absolutely beautiful for this too.  Its 60 degrees and sunny and will be in the 70’s today.  No rain at all.

Cinco De Mayo day

Today is the day (originally) to celebrate the Mexican army winning the battle of Puebla?  Now its more about the culture of Mexico.  That includes the different foods of Mexico.    I plan on ordering Tacos for lunch later on today.  I love Mexican cuisine.

Today is also my Great Niece Sophie Elizabeth’s second birthday.  We will have a zoom meeting at 6 pm tonight to sing Happy Birthday.  I even suggested the country needs to have a holiday and call it Sophie Elizabeth Birthday.

This morning I have been finishing up blog entries that seem to be taking a lot of time to write (I worry that it doesn’t make sense) and watching TV.  I continued after the meeting and while I was cooking the stew meat.

I am still scratching my head at someone who contacted me about the sewing machine ad I placed on FB’s Market place a while back.  First he asks if it is available.  Then he had the nerve to ask me if I was on crack for asking $250 for it and he could get a new one for less.  I told him that since he was insulting it’s not for sale to him and to get lost.  You don’t like the price?  Then make a counter offer.  First off it’s not a regular sewing machine its one that makes arts and crafts specifically.  Don’t insult someone before you do business with them.

I had the committee meeting we are doing surveys to see how everyone coping with everything.  We talked about the future of the university and everything.  I am sure the membership will be getting one.

The mallard ducks have been making their daily trek to next doors yard.   There were there this morning but I haven’t seen them yet this evening.  For the first time in a very long time I saw not one but two rabbits yesterday in my yard. One sitting in the driveway he ran as it sensed me and the other one was in the front yard late last night as I closed up for the night.  The woodchuck has made several appearances this week.  Mostly in the back yard and close to the back door but think I caught the back end of one going under the front porch.

Its time for dinner and the birthday zoom…so I will say goodnight!

Yesterday was Awesome!

Yesterday was absolutely awesome!  I got Daimian’s home a little after 1:30 as many others were as well.  We spent the afternoon talking about everything.  Including Condo’s, and history of the holocaust and how some movies and TV shows take liberties with historical moments such as the Nazi Occupation.   We also touched on certain situations that happened early in the history of the group.  For those who didn’t know about it.  There were so many other conversations.  We also celebrated Paula’s birthday.(it actually .was on Friday so I need to update the birthday list).

There was s variety of delectable foods.  I tried so hard to be good.  I had the salad and fruit salad unfortunately; I had a piece of cake and biscotti, and candy.  I was feeling guilty.  I thought I would be so prepared.  I had had some nuts and protein drink before leaving for the meetup.

The meetup started breaking up after 2 and I was home by 3:30.  I stopped and talked with another member named Rita who I just met that day.  We talked about meetups in general.  I was home by 3:30 and the kitties were waiting on me.

I had about 2 hours before I had to leave for the second meetup of the evening.  I did some laundry, made a dinner of steak (even though I wasn’t hungry).  I eventually fed the cats and got ready for the trip to Ivoryton Playhouse.

When I left the sun was just going down and made the ride a really awesome.   The temperatures were in the mid 40’s well until after night fall.  The traffic wasn’t bad and as I approached Ivoryton there the roads were getting very hilly, and dark and beautiful.  Yet it got unnerving because I wasn’t sure if Bambi or his family would jump out.

I arrived to the theater and d the area was absolutely beautiful.  I ended up parking in a park down the street from the theater and walked to the theater.  I was early and as the time of the play approached many people were arriving.  I met Red and she was wonderful.

We were able to get seats closer to the stage.  The Ivoryton Playhouse was very intimate and fun.  We sat down in our seats and Red brought me some water.   We chatted and for the next hour and half we watched two plays.  This event was basically a rehearsal to see how the potential audience would like it.   They read from their scripts.   Some of it was awkward but some of it was fun and probably supposed to be awkward.  There was a panel afterwards.  There was a reception in the foyer afterwards but we took the time to look around at the pictures of all the actors who performed at the theater.  It was fun telling Red how many I recognized. 

We went to the restaurant down the street from the theater where we talked for another hour with coffee and hot chocolate.  Eventually a group of firefighters and their wives and significant others came in to celebrate someone getting Firefighter of the year.  It was so cool.

It was nearly 11 when we said goodbye to each other and I headed home.  It was midnight by the time I got home. 

I did a few things and then got into bed. 

This morning I was going to go up and look at the things I wanted to put on Market place on FB but I discovered Joan S is having a walk at 9:30.  So of course I am going.  I may still go to the gym for class it depends on how much time I have. 

I have bingo this afternoon and I am going to have to the house cleaning this week as Livia is on vacation.   I have known about it since midweek.

Well I need to say good morning to some siblings so I will talk later….

Today is day 3 of the edge fitness challenge

Today is day three of the Edge fitness challenge.  I still am faltering despite making sure I work the program.  I am supposed to be getting at least 12000 or more steps a day. Since Monday haven’t reached those goals.  I almost did today as Alex wanted me to get to 14000.  I had already reach 9000+ by the time class started. 

The diet is also been hard.  Despite the fact even or in spite of the fact I have been having my protein drinks at least before I leave the house.  I managed to flake on the diet by having pizza, or the candy.  I have had salads in the last couple of days either as a main element or in addition to soup, veggie wrap. 

 Even though I didn’t go to the gym yesterday I think I made up for it a little by going straight to the gym from work and doing cardio for 30 minutes and then taking the SGT 60 class. 

What is the SGT 60 class?  Well the description is as follows: SGT is a 60-minute partner-based workout with a group up to 12 people which includes a mix of repetition-based movements with progressive weight training and interval based cardio training. This class is for anyone looking to increase strength and endurance!

I was very pleased at being able to do most if not all of the exercises.  Of course that’s how it usually is.  I was using 12.5 lbs.  For chest presses in dumbbells and we had to do 4 rounds of 12 times.

I have signed up for a few more classes in the next couple of days.   I was only going to do Cardio (treadmill, bike, or epileptic) tomorrow but decided to do a class at 5:30.  I have my regular Saturday Morning classes as well (This week is the first of the Edge challenge class). 

I have no idea what I am going to have for food tomorrow.  This is one of the biggest problems I have.  I don’t always plan ahead.  I just wing it and usually decide at that moment.  I will have to seek out any salads.

I know what I am not doing though.  I was supposed to bring brownies to the brunch on Saturday and have decided to make a large salad and hopefully get my fill of that.  Most likely have more than one of my protein drinks and lots of water.

Here is to a better diet day tomorrow!

Happy New Year

Despite the rain I had a great time.   I got dressed around 6 and headed to my sister’s.  When I arrived I had the pleasure of seeing my family in South Carolina.  After we finished with them we put make up on (to cover my sore nose) and to look the part of flapper.  I got the approval of my BIL.    WE took some pictures and then around 8:15 I headed to Middletown.   

The drive to Middletown was okay but there were some spots the lights that were along the highway were not on and that made it a little unnerving because I was afraid some bambi or pet would run out in the middle of the highway.   Eventually I made it to the place parked and found the restaurant after reading instructions from GC. 

The speak easy really was wonderful and it was exactly the way I read about speakeasy’s.  My group was towards (around the corner from the bar area and there were about 10 of us I guess.  Three husbands came.  I got to see Mari, and meet the Vicki who was made to be Cinderella to several ladies who became her fairy Godmother for her wedding.  When I got home I sent her a message that I was glad to finally meet her and her really cute husband.

I held to my promise not to eat anything there but had water and a ginger ale or two.  I had a fairly good sized dinner several hours earlier.  I was proud of myself even if I was slightly hungry and the few things that did passed by me looked great. 

I enjoyed my conversations with AL, and Erica, of course Nery, and Vicky’s husband.  The music was slightly loud by enjoyable. 

When it got to be midnight we had a few count downs.  We cheered and toasted and a short time after that I left.  I felt I was pretty obnoxious with my cold and needed to get home.

The drive home wasn’t bad (although missed one exit and had a re do).  Managed to get home by 1:30 and went to bed immediately after that. 

I got up this morning around 6 and fed the cats and relaxed a short while.  We did our daily routine and relaxed and finished some writing and watched tV. 

I did go to the gym and do some cardio.  I managed to be there an hour but did more socializing then anything else.  

I came home got changed and then took off the bakery and picked up the breads and heading to Dave’s.

I Had a little mishap because I took a wrong turn and ran over a curb and shredded the tire.  When I got to Dave’s asked him if he could do it and then couldn’t but had to spend time with insurance company getting roadside assistance.  I am not sure how long it took but I was frustrated and started not feeling well.

Overall if I wasn’t stressed the party was nice but Dave brought up some issues that I think could have been left unsaid (the issue with rose).  He said someone asked and he had to tell her. 

I stayed until 4 because the cold was starting to annoy me and I was getting tired. I also knew I had been obnoxious.  Also Dave got me a gift but I didn’t get him one. 

When I left I didn’t get on the highway.  I called the tire company but of course they were not there.  I left a message and continued home.  Every time I think about how this happened the harder it is to explain. 

It was almost 4:30 when I got home and sundown was just starting.  I fed the cats who probably spent most of the day sleeping.  Sky was under the bed when I left and Tiger in the closet.  But when I got home both were waiting by the front door.

I fed them and did the regular Wednesday routine garbage night.  I fell asleep for a bit and then I woke up and watched TV.

We had internet service interruption again.  We were able to watch TV but there was some message on the box saying router failure or CM Registering.  I tried to get online and couldn’t.  Luckily it wasn’t as long as the one earlier this week but it really was pissing me off.  I am sending them an email tomorrow. 

I talked with Neighbor Kim via text about the internet and then on the phone.  After that conversation found out one of her patients is in my meetup.  It far too funny.



I am going to call it a night.  I have already written my Thankful Thursday for tomorrow but I am getting tired and want to get some rest.

Joy to the World

Did you know that the song Joy to the World is the most popular Christmas song?   It heralds the birth of Christ and calls for all to celebrate the love and happiness it should bring.  I found this very interesting article on the origins of this song.  Love it.

I was up at 6:30 that morning and thanks to a persistent Sky I made sure I fed the cats and went back to sleep for a little bit.   I did put the TV on but nothing really interested me.  The kitties went back to bed after I fed them.

To be honest it was a fairly quiet morning.  I cleaned off the windshield of the car and it was much better and of course safer.  I would have to make time later to clean out the car.

I was to be at my niece Cheryl and her husband’s home around 1.  I showered and dressed and started to leave for North Haven.  That is until I saw my neighbors next door.  Actually I saw the husband and chatted with him.  I hadn’t seen them much in the last few weeks.  So as usual I had to catch up with them.

When I finally did leave got some gas and headed on the highway.  It was unexpectedly a smooth ride all the way.  I followed the instructions to the t-but I must have missed the street because they had me come up another way.  I went home the normal way afterwards. 

I was the first one to arrive.  Everyone else that was coming was all running late.  I believe My Niece J and her family arrived first.  They exchanged gifts and I even got one.  IT was a Plush throw with kitties on it.  I was so surprised (and extremely guilty ridden). 

Eventually everyone arrived and chaos ensued.  The kids were having fun with the playing and talking and eating.  Of course my battle with food was lost again.  I ate almost everything.  So I knew I would have to work at it some more.

My nephew Adam got the Yeti tumbler that I brought as the Yankee swap.  Whenever I bring a gift or food and it’s the last thing to be picked I was nervous.  So when he chose it I was very relieved.  I know it sounds lame but I remember when I brought a gift many years ago to my cousin’s birthday party someone else brought the very same gift (the latest Spirograph game or toy) I was crushed.  Oh what did I get for the Yankee Swap?  Trump Toilet paper it was from my sister.

It was sometime after 5 when people began to leave.  It was kind of funny because in the far distance the sun was just setting that night and I could look to one side of me and could see what I can only guess as being North Branford, or even Northford.  It was so beautiful.

It was a beautiful and fun night and I was exhausted when I got home.  I did make some calls but only got one of my aunts on Mom’s side.

The rest of the night I watched TV and then went to bed.  The kitties soon followed we were listening to the programs on Public Radio.

Thanksgiving 2019

I was expecting the weather to be cloudy, cold and very windy and it was as the day progressed.  It started off sunny and 45 degrees.  It was pretty much the same in Killingworth.  This is probably a good thing.  I have heard from friends across the country.  They did get snow and it ranged from 8 in to a total foot. 


I baled on the gym in the morning despite the fact I saw A on FB.  So he knows I was online and despite the fact I promised I can’t.  I have things I wanted to do before the day got away.  So I met with A this week at our normal time.  Tuesday I was very tired and we talked about.  He reminded me that I am pre-Diabetic (something I may not have shared with the Doctors this week) and the reason I was tired because of the sugar and breads I have been having.  He suggested that I can no longer have desserts or sweets of any kind.  No breads either and this entire are going to be tough A did say he would allow me a smudging of stuffing and sliver of pie.  I graciously (I hope) turned it down and told him I would do my best to focus on the fruits and vegetables (moderation) and make best choices possible.  I have had some veggies this morning and had a protein drink.  I am running low but I will be picking some up when I do cardio (I baled on the class again).


I actually did pretty well (not too much fruit when we got there) I had water, lots of shrimp, and one crab cake before dinner.  The main meal was turkey, string beans, sweet potatoes, stuffing, and a couple of pieces of bread with butter.  I did have one piece of pie.


I did give myself some stress that I was trying to avoid and that was I was a little late getting to Liz’s.  I had been chatting with next door and didn’t know the time.  When I left I was running really late.  I tried calling her on her cell and she didn’t pick up.  As I got to the street I saw my brother in law leaving.  AT the time I didn’t realize he was going to the store until I followed him.  I thought he was taking a short cut.  I tried calling Liz one more time on the house phone and she was there.  Needless to say I was so frustrated with myself.  So I went back to their house and relaxed.  We chatted and then eventually left.
  

The ride up was okay even though the traffic was semi heavy.  Liz was driving but there was a debate on who was driving before we left.  Liz won.  The drive home was much better but was after five and dark.  We got back home by 6.


The afternoon was wonderful.  Liz did some activities with the kids and the rest of us watched football games.   I did spend some one on one time with Olivia.  She was so cute.  She sat with me in the family room during Nelson 3’s concert.  Everyone applauded but he needs more practice.  The food was delicious, the company was great.


Before going home Liz gave me her dresses that I may wear for the New Year’s Eve party and new pair of jeans.    I have to try them on to see if they fit.   I may have to find few accessories at Party city.

We were also discussing how to split up the cookies.  I need to know if we are putting them in little trays or what.  I think I have to make at least 8 dozen for these that means I may have to double the recipe.  I will definitely get the stuff this weekend.


On my way home I stopped at Wendy’s probably the only other place besides Cracker-barrel opened.  I had a cheeseburger and fries and then spent the evening watching LOTR-again.  I Stayed on the couch until Midnight.


I hope you all had a great one.

 

Will need to be careful

I will need to be careful today.  I have been up early and had a few cups of coffee and already put my foot into situations.  Even though team Lead Pat reassured me it wasn’t just me but several factors going on.  Short story-during a meeting I interrupted Super Bob while he was explaining something.  I wasn’t the only one but that’s not the point.

The staff meeting today was basically about the move.  There was another incident in which an employee called police on another employee.  It wasn’t our team and he commended us for that but reminded us that space in the new building will be tight and to keep it professional and respectful.

I found out later in the day what happened.  It involved two people that I have a lot of respect for.  The team lead put work on the other person’s desk and said person returned it with the word bitch written on it.  Team lead reacted strongly and instead of going to the supervisor or HR they called the police.

There was clarification regarding who was going to move personal items.  It was established we (staff members) will have to before the move.  The movers will move our phones, machines, stapler etc.

I haven’t gotten as much as I would have liked done.  I have spent some time roaming and chatting.  Something I promised Supervisor that I would cut back on.  Got to work on that one.

I chatted via text with Sis and bro and they are fine well.  Sis and BIL are still not feeling great.  L seems to think she has a cold and of course N’s slowly recovering from bronchitis.  It’s their wedding anniversary this weekend so they will be celebrating quietly.

Another save the date this time it’s for our Holiday party at Woodwinds? Its December 12, 2019.  I heard about it yesterday and will definitely make plans to go.  It didn’t go into great details but I am sure it will come eventually.

I have been chatting with Sideri in the last couple of days.  I showed her the latest email with the move in dates.  She said we will have a welcome lunch together once I get over there. J

Oh great…the ride home was a bit stressful.  I ended up going on route 34 and down Racebrook Road.  It was much longer.  I wasn’t that late.

Roberta was in the dining room doing some work for Aggie.  Aggie went to drop off her granddaughter and came to work with her more.  So while they did that I took a nap. After a while I got up and got on the computer.  I wasn’t sure I would be able to because Roberta accidently messed up the remote and I had to reset it when I got home after dinner tonight.

Aggie joined us for dinner with Dave. I let Dave know.  I didn’t say anything but I was a little uncomfortable with that because I had read something about inviting others to a party and or out to dinner when you are not the one who did the original inviting.  Was that convoluted enough?  It turned out alright though.

The major discussions were of course the decluttering.   They were giving advice, telling me what I should be doing (which annoyed the living shit out of me) regarding the move, the decluttering, that I will have to make some repairs.  I am following the advice of my realtor.  If one more person tells me that my niece should be doing something different and or reducing the fees she is charging me I am going to scream.  They knew I was getting angry about it.  I also felt bad about it.

We talked movies, and other things.  We got home a short time later and now heading to bed.