A Quiet Corner

Contrast Counts

2012-02-14T20:26:00.000-05:00

Thinking my Krinkle Kurl (aka Hindu Rope Plant) with a backdrop of our recent snow was a great contrast, I'm linking up to:

Floating on Air

2012-02-14T07:03:00.005-05:00

After returning from a slow, deliberate walk with Moon and Copper, I felt like I was floating on air! We walked the entire gravel road down and back for the first time in what seemed like forever. I wondered if I would pay for it the next day but I didn't care. The fresh air was invigorating and I have missed...truly missed...nature.

I headed towards the gate near the garage. Moon always has her leash and halter removed first while Copper waits patiently. Then it was his turn. Patting him on his "bum bum" as always I SENT THEM ON THEIR WAY TO BASK IN THE HIGH NOON SUN.

But something told me to double check the gate on the front side of the house where we exited. As fate would have it, I'm glad I did because just as I rounded the corner of the house, there it was floating across the yard, looking as if it was suspended in mid air. It, too, was floating on air!

Copper immediately went to investigate once it landed within the fence as I too headed towards it. It made my day...this partially deflated heart-shaped bright shiny pink balloon...:)

Tell Me Another Adventure

2012-02-13T05:05:00.002-05:00

I had taken an Aleve before we left the house which enabled me to make the 1 1/2hr drive to my sons. We were going over to visit for a few hours. As we pulled up to the house, there they stood...in the doorway...my son and his little girl...a perfect picture. As I got out of the car, she shouted, "Nana," which was perfect!

I couldn't wait to get inside and visit with Mia. She told me how she got the black and blue on her forehead at the birthday party the day before and about what she's been doing in daycare. I saw her ABC cookie shaped letters sprawled out on the family room floor as she belted out the ABC's.

As we colored, she said, "tell me another adventure. " In fact, each time I would refer to her coloring so beautifully, she would simply dismiss it and say "tell me another adventure, Nana." I always fill her in on the things I've been doing and she seems to love it when I give her the option of choosing an inside adventure or an outside adventure.

Spellbound by my tales of squirrels, chipmunks, dogs and hawks seemed to make her mind soar. The look on her little face was of total amazement and she waited for yet another story. And so they continued all while we colored.

At the age of three, she's like a little whirlwind. Next we bundled up to go outside. While she scaled the rock wall of her Little Tykes playhouse, I waited on the other side. She then announced boldly that she was "Jake," had a green parrot on her arm named "Scully" and that I was Cubby. Her Mom was Izzy. And so we entered the pirate world. Spying two branches on the ground, I handed one to her and said "let's see if we can catch a fish from our pirate ship." The first one she pulled in was a balooga whale, she said. Then we again cast our invisible lines into the deep blue sea hoping to land a shark. She of course, caught one. Cubby (me) didn't.

But the highlight of the day was when Sleeping beauty walked down the hallway and said, "Nana, I was tricking you. I'm not Sleeping beauty yet. I forgot my crown." Scurrying back down to her room to get her crown, she reappeared as Sleeping Beauty, a far cry from Jake, the pirate!

Before long, it was time for Sleeping Beauty to retire to her bedroom for her afternoon nap. Goodnight Beauty...sleep tight..I love you.

Southern Drawl

2012-02-12T06:33:00.001-05:00

No "winter weather advisory" 'round hare, y'all!

They lied.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Linking up to

Handy Man

2012-02-11T05:01:00.030-05:00

The loud crashing noise echoed throughout the whole house. On the couch watching NCIS and playing Angry Birds, I said, "Honey?" No answer. Not a sound. NOTHING....no response....total silence, which to tell you the truth, seemed just as loud as the ominous as the crashing. Once again, "Honey" followed by "are you alright?"

Seeming to take forever, the response was slow and deliberate but it was the Prez' voice. "What?"

Then I heard the all too familiar sound of tools. As the bit of the drill tore into what sounded like a wall, I decided that I'd better go see exactly what the Prez was doing.

He'd drilled a hole directly above the shower, inserted a molly, then the screw...the screw on which to hang the shower caddy. I was wondering how long it would take him to do that. Since we moving here in October, the damn thing has come unstuck at least ten times using the suction cups it came with!

Nice to have my handy~man!

Winter Weather Advisory

2012-02-10T19:08:00.001-05:00

When the local news tonight said, " there's a winter weather advisory for Windham and New london Counties", dropped what I was doing and waited with baited breath.

Then I went downstairs to get my stuff ready for tomorrow...
Maybe, just maybe....we'll get "hammered"!!

...:) JP

Natures Beauty...by Laura

2012-02-10T05:30:00.081-05:00

While the sewing maching hummed along, I placed the straight pin in the pin cushion. Yes, the curtains were nearly done. Meanwhile the Prez walked down to get the mail with the kids. Now pressing the curtains in the laundry room, I heard the door open and before I knew it I heard, "Delivery" as he handed me a package.

Well, all I can say is THANK YOU, THANK YOU, my friend!! You see, Laura creator extraordinaire not only of her blog Forest Walk Art but also of her many creations sent me the most beautiful sun catcher! It is gorgeous...made up of butterfly wings and flower petals, pressed beautifully with beveled edged glass on one side..the colors are magnificent in it and I cannot wait to put it to work tomorrow!!! Another thing I received was a handcrafted card with one of Laura's infamous photographs. The picture is so clear and well defined that it looks real! If you cherish photography and nature, pay her a visit as her picture taking skills are beyond belief. She shows things for their true beauty. It is because of her that I now see so much beauty and mystery in nature...things that I had always overlooked.

Thank you, my friend! To you and for you, I am grateful...:)

As you can see, it was a bright, sunny day yesterday so my new suncatcher, designed and created just for me by Laura, couldn't have found a better home!

Linking up with Friendship Friday (with Create With Joy). Stop by for a visit...:)

Browsing

2012-02-09T05:10:00.000-05:00

Browsing is like shopping. You search until you find what you're looking for. Some are interested, others are not.

Drinking my coffee early one morning, I spotted a few shoppers in the distance.

Heading over to Nancy's for Rural Thursday. Come on by and join the fun!

What Do You See In Me?

2012-02-08T06:23:00.009-05:00

Linking up to: Wordless Wednesday

A Twisted Tale (Part 4)

2012-02-08T05:43:00.000-05:00

So how do you tell your children that you have a blood disorder? How do you tell your children that they might have inherited this dreadful clotting disorder? How do you tell them that they are at an elevated risk to clot when other outside factors are involved?

It was hard. I did it. I did it and hated it. I still hate it.

I never knew my father. My time with my mother was limited to say the least and I never had any medical records from either of them. I know not where I got this disorder. My sister didn't inherit it. My daughter inherited it from me. It is not an easy thing to live with as every little twinge, shooting pain, throbbing pain you think "blood clot."

I have accepted this disorder and it's ramifications.

It's like living with a time bomb inside of you.

You never know when it will be detonated.

But, for my life and those who love me, I am grateful.

A Twisted Tale (Part 3)

2012-02-07T05:38:00.000-05:00

Late Thursday afternoon, the Prez walked into my room. In his hand was a gallon size zip lock bag filled with all the meds I had been given by the doctor. He handed it over to the nurse who told us that she'd give them to the doctors now caring for me.

A short while later the doctor came in and said, "Now we know why you didn't experience any pain in that leg. There's enough stuff in here (referring to the bag) to put an elephant to sleep. Now if you feel you want something for the pain, we will give it you." I hadn't had any pain medication since early that morning and now that I realized that all the pain meds had not only killed the pain in my back but also had obliterated the pain caused by the clot, I choose not to take anything. The pain in my leg was unbelievable!

The hematologist told me that they could implode the clot. However that could cause serious repercussions. He would prefer not to do that. "We'll keep you on heparin while you're in here. We'll teach you to give yourself shots once you're home. Then you will be on medication."

In walked my daughter, who told me she would have been there sooner but had had a car accident caused by some loser getting off the exit. My son walked in with flowers. I hated it..having them all worried about me.

But what I hated more was that I had to break the news to them.

to be continued...

A Twisted Tale (Part 2)

2012-02-06T05:35:00.000-05:00

My visits to the Orthopedic doctor continued for seven weeks. Hence the "Desktop." Going into the seventh week, however, my husband, daughter and son became very concerned. It was nearly April and Spring had warmed the earth enough so that daytime temps allowed us to enjoy our screened in porch occasionally. There we were enjoying the afternoon with me in my sweats when my daughter asked me why my ankle on my right leg looked different than the ankle on my left leg. With all the ~~drugs~~ medication that I was taking, I hadn't even noticed, to tell you the truth. Making me promise to bring it to the doctor's attention on my Thursday visit was a blessing in disguise.

Thursday came and I had no ride to the doctor so I did what anyone of you would do. I drove myself even though the prescriptions said "Warning: Do not operate machinery or drive when taking this medication." But that too was a blessing...that I drove, and made it I mean. I've been told that if you're on prescription pain killers long enough to begin to function normally, that could be the onset of addiction.

Dropping my sweats so the doctor could examine me before I climbed up on the table for my shots, I mentioned my ankle. She matter of factly said, "That has nothing to do with your back but I want you to go to the hospital for a test. You do take hormones, don't you?" "Yes" was my answer. I was 53 at that time and had been on HRT for a few years. Finishing up at the doctor's I climbed in my Wrangler and drove to the local hospital.

The technician finished the ultra sound. However as I started to sit up, I was being forced to lie down by a nurse who gently said, "Oh no. You're not going anywhere. You have a blood clot in the calf of your leg the size of a baseball and are being admitted. Who shall we contact?"

Stunned from the overwhelming news, hungry from not having anything to eat since breakfast about seven hours earlier, I felt like I was about to pass out. Perhaps it was nerves but I hated being told I was being admitted. The next thing I knew I was being strapped to a table, instructed not to get out of bed, had I V poles loaded with fluids being pumped into my port and doctors and nurses poking and prodding me like a pin cushion.

Four days later I was told I would be going home on Monday. It was the events during those four days that would change my life forever.

to be continued...

Waiting for Winter

2012-02-05T05:10:00.019-05:00

Linking up to A Rural Journal's Your Sunday Best...why don't you join me?

A Twisted Tale (Part 1)

2012-02-04T05:17:00.005-05:00

Remember the story I wrote earlier this week about the "Desktop"? Let's continue where we left off. The collage was created while I was home recouperating from that herniated disc. However, writing about the "Desktop" reminded me to tell you about another Chapter in my life. Here goes:

~~~~~~

Once "the doctor" (and I use the term loosely) determined that I had a herniated disc, now it was time for treatment. Having never been to an orthopedic doctor before, I was ignorant when it came to treatment. I was given a prescription for muscle relaxers, a prescription for a pain killer and a prescription for a sleeping pill. I was also told that because I was not over weight, surgery would not be necessary.

And so it was, when the Prez was not pulling his three days on at the Firehouse, he'd make me breakfast, lunch and dinner. When we did have to work, he would leave leftovers which were easy enough for me to throw on a plate and heat up in the microwave. Let me further say drugs and I do not get along. It doesn't take much to make me "spacey." (Some say I'm spacey enough! LOL!!) What I mean though is that medication makes me woozy...it's like like drunk. I get dizzy, light headed, feel nauseous and simply want to pass out. Needless to say, while taking this medication I was like a walking zombie.

In addition to the prescribed meds, I would go to the doctor's office weekly and after she examined me, she'd help me up on the table, roll on my stomach and then inject several needles into the affected area. Then she would tell me to dress and send me on my way.

to be continued...

Simple Pleasures

2012-02-03T06:04:00.001-05:00

I walked with the dogs the other morning for the first time in a long, long time. It felt so good to breathe the fresh cold air as the sun came over the horizon.

I decided rather than walk the gravel road, we would head in back of our property towards the land trust. This was one of several patches of ices leading to nature's bounty.

Once home, I performed my routine tick check on Moon and Copper. Three ticks later, their halters and leashes were hung on the coat rack ready for our next excursion. I love walking.

Define Rural

2012-02-02T05:51:00.000-05:00

Sure, when we chose to move here, we thought that we were going to live the simple life. Although within miles of the hustle and bustle of a few cities, the pastoral surroundings had us convince that, once again, we'd struck it rich and would be able to call home rural.

Yes, I know when the grass had begun to pop up through the straw in the fall and I got excited...really excited...because I envisioned our countrified life as beginning anew. However, right now the yard is a mess! It snowed a few times and the temperature dropped for a few days down to 7 and 9 so the ground froze. Then it, like so many other places, thawed and we got rain. Meanwhile, the entire time we have Copper. Ah, yes. Copper the ever energetic bonehead who refuses to do much of anything other than play.

So what once looked like this bucolic, rural scene of peace and tranquility, has now become this...a huge mud pit with dog divots virtually everywhere!

Tell me. If you have a yard that accumulates water in a certain spot and think you saw a fish, does that qualify as

rural?

Oh, one more thing. I'm thinking about setting up a lawn chair with a fishing pole here. What do you think?

Linking up with Rural Thursday today...hope to see you there!

The Desktop...A Story

2012-02-02T05:34:00.005-05:00

It was created out of love, with love so she could see those she loved. It was created by a woman who way back when shoveled snow left from a storm that blanketed the northeast.

Her husband, who knew the value of a dollar, was at work pulling his "three days on" and she had to get to work herself. So she shoveled.

That night another snowstorm hit and, once again, she heaved the white powder off to the sides clearing tracks out to the road which would enable her to get to work. Sprinkling salt on the tire treads that evening hoping that it would help the residue dissipate, she ate her supper while watching the local news. Another snowstorm was predicted that night.

Dreading what she would find in the morning, she arose and bundled up before heading out. She had grown weary on this third day and felt that the long hot shower would relieve her aches and pains. Reaching up to wash her hair with both hands, she felt a pop. No longer being able to stand, she crawled on her hands and knees to the bed and climbed in. Her husband would be home from pulling his "three days on" soon.

When he came into the bedroom and questioned what was wrong, she told him she couldn't stand up straight. Several doctors, xrays and hours of pain later, the MRI should a herniated disc. She would be home a while. It was during this time that the antique desk was transformed into a forever keepsake...displaying those she loved.

In the Dark

2012-02-01T05:44:00.012-05:00

The 31st would have been my 42nd wedding anniversary...had I remained married to Husband No.1. Yes, we've had our differences in the beginning as well as throughout the years. However, now that we are in our sixties, we are able to tolerate each other a little bit more.

In fact, my most recent conversation with "him" was when our daughter was in the hospital. He doesn't do hospitals, medications, etc very well so when our son asked me to call him to explain what was going on with our daughter, I was not looking forward to the experience. However, there are things you simple do because you have to.

Speaking of doing things because you have to...

I reverted back to a "pop up window" for comments. Someone told me that using the embedded option causes problems even though using the embedded option allowed me to answer back?? Yes/No?

Next, can anyone out there give me a quick synopsis of Google +? When I go out there and that click "+1" thingy and leave a comment is it only posted on that "stream" page? I thought it was going to the blogs!!

Is Google Reader going away? If not, how can I leave comments on the blogs I'm following, because ti doesn't let me.

I hate being in the dark....:(

HELP ME....I'm DROWNING!!

A Visit to Bedrock

2012-01-31T05:44:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, I told the Prez that I felt pretty good and wanted to try to drive. Grant you I'm sore but have to admit that since I am moving a lot better and able to sit a little here and there, my brain is now telling me...no yelling at me...you need to get out! Suggesting that we go visit our friends, Fred and Wilma (names changed to protect the innocent!!!) who live in Bedrock and only two towns over, I sent her a text message. We decided that mid-afternoon would be good a good time for all.

We climbed into my Mini Cooper with me behind the wheel and backed out of the garage. Being the first time I drove since the end of December, it did feel a little strange...kind of like driving on rock wheels! Although I was concerned about a noise coming from the rear tire, shifting really wasn't too bad on this ~~damn~~ left leg until I got to my first long traffic light. Then the Prez suggested that I simply remain in neutral while at lights was a great idea and helped a lot, even though the noise was still there. When we got to Fred and Wilma's, the Prez climbed out of the bucket seat and looked under the car and at the tires. I had been dragging a branch that I ran over on our gravel road!

Visiting Fred and Wilma was both a happy and sad mission. It was the first time I'd been to the house since they had their dog, Dani, put down and now, my bed mate, Greta, their boxer, was in poor health. Fred and I talked about Dani, shed some tears and shared some hugs while Wilma the Prez were off on another tangent. However, visiting with them always puts me in good spirits. Wilma is such a hoot...has an answer for everything and can understand me even when I talk with my mouth full while Fred, the methodical, quiet one, sends zingers my way as well!

They put out quite a spread to nibble on as usual and after talking about everything from electric bills to my daughter's health, it was time to head for the hills. Arriving home and driving up the gravel road, I spottend Moon and Copper running to meet us at the side gate. Kissing Moon and then throwing the stick for Copper, I thought of Greta. She will be in my thoughts and prayers as always.

Although I felt a sense of accomplishment getting out and driving, I told the Prez I was sore. I guess driving a car with a clutch can be a little tricky when your left leg doesn't work quite right. It may be a little longer before I attempt to drive again. DAMN!

Nice Bed...No Thanks!

2012-01-30T05:46:00.000-05:00

Bringing the new bed into my office and placing it strategically on the carpet, I thought it would be perfect for Moon. I mean it looked great to me! The three inch thick rectangular orthopedic foam snugly zippered in it's rich burgundy cover appeared cozy enough especially since one end was covered in plush pile where Moon would lay her head. The underside of the bed was skid resistant. How could it not be...well perfect for her...the dog that was so easily pleased?

Meanwhile, it was time for the introduction. Surprisingly Copper went without hesitation immediately to his new bed which was identical to Moon's except a rich chocolate brown. I had placed his down the hall from hers so they'd have their own space. Watching him sprawl out and place his head on the built in pile pillow, I said, "Good boy."

Moon wandered into the office, sniffed the bed and then placed one paw on it. It seemed to agree with her so, the other legs immediately followed. Curling up and placing her head on the soft pile, she seemed content. That's my girl, I thought...so easy to please.

Meanwhile, dialing my sister's number, I sat in my chair lowering myself slowly to avoid pain. Getting comfortable I knew I would be on the phone for a while with her as we always have a lot to say to each other. Watching Moon rest on her new bed, a long awaited calmness came over me as well. It was one of those times filled with total relaxation...at least for a while.

Moon had now rolled onto her back, her favorite sleeping position. Slowly inching a little further and further, she extended her legs in the air (probably to get good air circulation on her belly). I thought about getting up to get the camera which was upstairs but knew if I moved, I'd disturb the sleeping beauty.

What happened next happened so fast and was so funny, I couldn't help but laugh out loud right into my sister's ear. Moon had relaxed and rolled so much that she rolled right off the bed! Startled by the three inch drop, she scrambled to get up on all fours and starred at the bed in amazement. It was as if she thought that the damn bed pushed her off!!! After starring intently at the bed, she then gently picked up Fluffy and placed it on her new bed. She chose to stretch out nearby...on the carpet instead!!!

Fixing Fluffy

2012-01-29T05:34:00.005-05:00

You may have seen Moon's stuffed toy in pictures here and there. Well, that's Fluffy. She's had it since her first Christmas. It's a stuffed bone with one of those squeakers in it. I know. I know. We are not supposed to give our dogs that kind of toy. Moon has always been fine with it. Since I am not a cardiologist, I never wanted to perform surgery to remove Fluffy's heart (the squeaker). And so it stayed.

Several months ago, long before moving, I came across Fluffy while packing. Noticing it had several small holes, I was tempted to simply toss it. I chose otherwise, placing it in my sewing basket as I packed. Well, now that I can sit for short periods, I dug out my sewing basket to try to play catch up and there it was right on top.

Moon watched intently as I stitched and re-stitched. It was as if she knew Fluffy was in good hands even though many surgeries had been performed on Fluffy in the past.

When I was done, she gently took him out of my hand and placed him right on her bed. Moon was happy as I watched her placed her head on top of him. As with so many other things, they only need our time.

Moving Mountains and Mattresses

2012-01-28T05:38:00.032-05:00

Thursday she went for her routine mamo, only to have the technician then the radiologist "hang out" a lot longer on the breast where she'd had the growth removed a few years ago. It caused more anxiety in her as they hovered around the titanium chip placed in her as a marker. Her appointment with the OBGYN was later that afternoon to talk her to about the mass that they detected while she was recently in the hospital, she was nervous. So was I.

I mean, what do you say? Good luck hardly seemed appropriate so it never crossed my lips but I love you did. Her appointment was for 3:45pm and here it was 5:35pm and still no call. I kept repeating over and over again, no news is good news. Then a prayer. Finally I called her cell phone and it went to voicemail. Leaving a message, I felt tense, anxious then suddenly hungry. Moments passed and my phone rang. It was her. I'm just now leaving the doctor's. He was detained because of surgery and didn't get to see me until 30 minutes ago. He told me not to worry. It's a cyst that has already shrunk in size. He asked me if I felt a pop at any given point during my stay and I told him I did once I was able to get up and do laps in the hallway with my I V pole. It's nothing, Mom. He wants me to come back in six weeks to do another ultra sound to follow-up.

Finally, I thought...good news for her!

I was and am grateful.

I thanked God.

Oh, one more thing. I've been able to walk around the house, up and down stairs, do a little yard work lately, including picking up Moon and Copper's residue (aka poops, crap)!! Hooray! Apparently my sciatic nerve has decided to return to it's normal position and I will continue to mend...:)

Yep, there's a lesson here:

if ever you are plagued by sciatic nerve problems, DO NOT MOVE ATTEMPT TO MOVE A MATTRESS!

Awaiting Test Results aka A Change of Venue

2012-01-27T06:05:00.015-05:00

Awaiting test results is exhausting and that's where I'm at right now with my daughter. I felt that I needed a change of venue and dogs are supposed to calm your nerves, so...

Although the Prez built the condos for the kids, we talked about letting them in the house once it got chilly here since they no longer have their own porch like they had in Virginia. So after the Prez bought waterproof weather resistant, stain resistant beds for their condos, off he went.

However, buying indoor beds to replace their old ones would mean we might see a change in their behavior. Copper is especially "selfish" and gets nervous when someone touches with his stuff. He actually paces around when I vacuum the hair and sand from his "place". Moon, on the other hand, could care less. I mean, being a stray she was just always grateful to have a bed!

BEFORE

AFTER

Well that's what we thought would happen. We were WRONG! Copper took to his new bed immediately, not even missing his old one...no pacing, no nervous behavior. Moon was the one who surprised us. Once her new bed was in place in the middle of my office, she gently placed her toy on it and spread out on the carpet instead! I'll tell you why in another post...:)

A Heartfelt Thank You

2012-01-26T06:01:00.005-05:00

I would like to tell each and every one of you

THANK YOU

for all the well wishes and prayers that you have passed on to me while my daughter was hospitalized. If you know me at all, you know how grateful I am for your kind words, encouragement and advice. I know that I will get through this, as rough as it may seem.

One last bit of news before I leave you for today. They thought my sister's breast cancer had returned. They were wrong!

Real Pain

2012-01-23T17:09:00.001-05:00

I thought I knew what pain was trying to mend and heal myself over the past few weeks. However, it is nothing compared to the pain and anguish I felt while my daughter was in the hospital.

Diagnosed with several blood clots in her lungs, she could barely draw a breath. Tests and more tests, day after day. Arguments with doctors and days of little or no sleep, she prevailed.

Soon to be released, they informed her today she is B12 deficient and has a mass near her ovaries for follow up by her OBGYN.

Yes, this was pain.
As a Mom and not being able to help her, this was real pain.

...:) JP

Winter Pleasure

2012-01-22T05:39:00.024-05:00

The first decent amount of snow fell this past week. Anxious to get out and play in it with Moon and Copper, I donned my nylon pants right over my jammies. I didn't care. Stepping into my Bean boots, I dreaded lacing them, since that required a degree of bending. For me, the snow was "the carrot at the end of stick". That and the fact that the kids were anxiously bobbing back and forth in the hall outside the laundry room as I dressed for some winter fun.

No, I could not run in it nor could I sit and slide down the hill, but it was cold, wet, white and wondrous just the same! Beside, merely watching the dogs be dogs would bring me much pleasure.

While Moon just loves this stuff and begins her quest for movement beneath the surface, Copper, on the other hand only wants to play. Finding Kong in this stuff can be tricky though but he doesn't seem to mind plowing the snow with his nose knowing that Kong is in there somewhere!

"His" Kong (black) is MIA again! We had to use Moon's as a substitute fix that day!

Emotions

2012-01-21T07:59:00.001-05:00

Trust me, I want to be excited over the fact that we had snow here the other day.

I want to be excited over the fact that it is snowing today too.

However, I am not.

My daughter has been in the hospital since Wednesday.

The great news is...she will be fine. For that I am,once again, grateful.

...:) JP

Sitting for Ten

2012-01-19T05:32:00.002-05:00

Let's get excited AGAIN!!!! I can now sit in a hard chair for about ten minutes at a time WITHOUT ANY PAIN!!!! So lets see...you do the math for this equation:

"X" = the number of blogs I follow
"Y" = the number of posts I have to catch up on since 12/28/11
"Z" = 10 minutes

Looks like I should just super glue my buttocks to the chair, gang! So, the process may be a slow one, but don't worry, I'll catch up!

"Oh, Honey," he exclaimed

2012-01-18T06:19:00.020-05:00

...come look at the deer. Quick! Come see this!" To tell you the truth, I really wasn't expecting anything but plain old deer although they are larger here than in Virginia.

Watching them cross through the woods thick with pricker bushes, they walked in single file. The Prez had already asked me where my camera was, heading down the stairs to get it before it was too late.

There it was...a young piebald doe. She was so difficult to photograph though. She remained hidden behind the trees and brush longer than any of the others that accompanied her.

She looks like a little cow, doesn't she?

I wonder if she kicks like Willow over at Glenda's.

Give Me Kisses, Dani

2012-01-17T05:37:00.000-05:00

She was always there. When I met them, she was already part of the household, establishing her role right from the beginning. She belonged to the man of the house, as it was he who found her through GSP Rescue. Some day her story will be told.

Whenever I visited, I got "kisses."

Yes, she was always there.

Her name was Dani and I will miss her.

Let's Get Excited!!

2012-01-16T11:03:00.001-05:00

I wanted you to know that:

I can now go up/down the stairs using BOTH legs...ta~da;
I took NO Aleve last night or this morning...ta~da;
I am now standing making what will be lunch...ta~da;
I've been walking around the house wearing my sneaks (hanks to Angela for that) since 6:30...ta~da
And, like a good little "doo-bee" I did my suggested stretches several times yesterday and once this morning (thanks to Laura & Angela) ...ta~da

Thank God for the simple things in your life.

...:) JP

Lean on Me

2012-01-16T06:18:00.023-05:00

While the Prez went to visit his Mom and then to give our son a hand fixing his garage door cables, I had to remain home AGAIN! However, I was actually able to sit up for a while
...as long as I lean to the right!!!! There may be hope after all!

This is how I feel when I sit...like the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Writing this dumb post, I was undecided as to what to title it: Lean on Me or Making A Lap...LOL!

P.S. I really am grateful that I was able to "make a lap" even if it was only for a little while. You should be too!

The Rock (Part 2)

2012-01-15T06:01:00.000-05:00

Last week I told you the story about "The Rock."

Well, guess what? My friend told me that it's not "a rock"...it's citrine. So having an insatiable appetite for knowledge, I searched citrine via Google because she told me that "the rock isn't a rock...it's citrine". So, without further adieu...click here: Citrine

And you thought it was just a rock!!!

"Citrine dissipates negative energies of all kinds. It also does not absorb any negative energies from its surroundings, and thus never needs energentic clearing. Citrine can be used to clear unwanted energies from the environment. Family issues caused by negative energies can also be resolved and cleared with citrine. Since citrine eliminates negative energies, it helps generate stability in all areas, and is good for general protection.

In the mental area, citrine enhances mental clarity, confidence, and will power. It also increases creativity and promotes honesty.

Emotionally, citrine relieves depression, self-doubt, anger, and irrational mood swings. Citrine is a stone that brings happiness and cheer to one who carries or wears it. Citrine also reduces self-destructive tendencies. Citrine helps eliminate fears caused by others' ideas and suggestions. It can help one overcome emotional traumas and grief. Sensuality and sexuality can also be heightened by citrine.

In the psychic and spiritual realms, citrine is good for general psychic awareness and spiritual development. Citrine clears the aura of negative energies and influences. It is also very useful for meditation. Citrine is a stone of protection, removing or deflecting negative energies of all kinds. It is also excellent for dream recall and dream work."

No wonder I've always kept it within sight!

P.S. Forget my original "Rent~A~Rock" proposal. Go get your own!!!...:)

The Plan...Compression

2012-01-14T06:13:00.001-05:00

The plan was simple. Go to the linen closet, find the shoe box where I put all the aces bandages and wrap my thigh. My thought was that if it was kept snug, I wouldn't feel as much pressure when I placed weight on my leg. It felt like it was literally tearing...ripping apart on my thigh and outer leg. Now obviously, I couldn't wrap my outer hip because, lets face it, kids, I don't think they make a bandage THAT big! However, keeping compression on the thigh, knee and lower leg surely would help.

And so I wrapped. I wrapped one ace around the lower leg to support the outer calf. Then I threw on my knee support to assist the ligaments and tendons behind it. The last and longest ace was used to wrap my thigh. Did I ever tell you that one of my best friends used to call me "thunder thighs" or "boulder hips?" That's another story.

So after all that wrapping it felt better. And it took me a long time to wrap, I might add. I am NOT a small girl. Although one quarter of me resembled a mummy, it felt better that whole day. Unwrapping myself before I went to bed that night, I hoped that it worked. It was like a miracle because next day I didn't wrap as there was minimal pain in the morning as I made my coffee, showered, dressed and went outside with the kids. I did take two Aleve. Telling my son that I was walking around with hardly any pain, I was sure I was on the mend. Then later that day, after walking nearly all day doing some tidying up, laundry, taking down the Christmas tree, it hit me. I went to sit on the couch to catch the evening news with the Prez and whammo...it was back. I can only surmise that the Aleve had tackled the pain all day. Up until now, I haven't taken anything other than use my Arnica gel.

The next day, I felt drastic measures were needed because all the ace bandages and wraps were drying on the rack in the laundry room. My substitute?

Let's hope they do the trick. C'mon, they're Control Top!!!

Call Me Stupid

2012-01-13T05:38:00.002-05:00

So, we all know that I'm hurting but I have to tell you that I'm MUCH BETTER than I WAS. Crap! It's been since the Prez returned home and that was back on January 4th. Fighting my cold off with good old Vick's Vapor Rub and the Prez' homemade chicken soup, it lasted only a week. But what a week it was.

Sure, I got up each morning, made my coffee and was able to get myself dressed so I could at least go outside in the morning with the kids. Actually, a few days ago, I was feeling pretty damn good, so I thought I'd walk up and down the road. I HAD TO...I NEEDED TO. Something inside just made me put their leashes on and head out the driveway with them, muttering we're just going to go slow and we'll be fine as Moon and Copper wagged their tails joyfully. What was I thinking?????

The rest of that day, I hurt like I did the previous week! So, back on the floor doing slow stretches, noticing that I got shooting pain when I sat. Then my SIL and BIL came over to get some of that wood from the tree that fell. While they were here, my SIL told me of her episode with a nerve...her sciatic nerve. We stood as we had our tea that day, because that was the only way I was more comfortable...lying down or standing.

Listening to her story and her description of her pain, I thought it kind of sounds like what I'm experiencing, except for the intense pain in my glute and outer thigh but it's possible. After they left that day, I later sent her a text asking her how long it took to recover. Six weeks was her answer!

Meanwhile, my daughter spent that entire day in the Emergency Room, ended up being admitted and having gall bladder surgery the following day. Not being able to jump in the car to go see her because of a common cold and over worked ligaments and muscles was horrible.

So my question to you is simple:

How long does it take to recover...when you're old?

Aha...all I need is a plan, I thought. I have to have a plan!

What Goes Around

2012-01-12T10:24:00.001-05:00

Ouch! When Lisa, Two Bears Farm, told me that to help my iliotibial band, if that is indeed what I injured, I should use a foam roller, I planned on taking her advice. I mean, after all, she is the epitome of being physically fit and, as you know, an avid runner.

Anyway, she texted me saying that she had bought a new roller for her own IT injury last year and that I could have the Prez stop by and get her gently used one. Arrangements were made.

Calling the Prez last night, I asked him to write himself a note so he could stop by and pick it up from Lisa's mailbox in the morning when he left to come home.

Now with this picture you can see the Prez made it safely home with my new IT Band Foam Roller.

Oh...one more thing. Baby Girl (aka Lisa), you were right! It hurts!

No, the words "it hurts" cannot describe the pain. I wanted to cry there on the floor and the next day, it seemed worse.

Resuming simple stretches instead eased the pain and I continued to baby myself. With the Prez home, I would be having his infamous chicken soup to alleviate my cold. This is beginning to sound so pitiful so I'll leave you with this:

When both extremities are not working properly, IT SUCKS!

...:) JP

Hmmmmm

2012-01-05T07:03:00.001-05:00

Reading my horoscope yesterday it said:

"Instead of weighing you down, challenges tend to stimulate you. You take both pride and pleasure engaging in what needs to be done and doing it well,"

Yep...that's me as I wait patiently for the Prez to arrive back from his trip to Virginia.

...:) JP

The Rock

2012-01-04T05:52:00.014-05:00

Several years ago, while visiting my best friend here in Connecticut, I was given "the rock." Laughing as she told me that it had powers...some sort of tale about bringing you money. Oh, I know what you're thinking because I thought the same thing, humored her and placed it in my pocket. Placing it in my suitcase and returning to Virginia, I unpacked my bag. When I came across it, I thought about where I should keep the token from her. I placed it on the shelf of my PC cabinet along with other memorabilia she has bestowed upn me over the years. And yes, occasionally, I would pick it up and sort of roll it around in my hands thinking of how she laughed when she handed it to me, before setting it right back in it's spot on the shelf.

Well it's been years now and I have to tell you...I think it works! Laugh if you will but here are just a few examples of my good fortune. It seems that when I rubbed it, money would come. One of the first things I received was a check in the mail for an insurance rebate...one of those good driver awards. Then another time, I received a check from Nabisco because I'd complained about one of their products. Yet another time, I found a twenty dollar bill in an old wallet. The list went on.

Now mind you, I never picked up the rock and blatantly wished for money. I simply picked up the rock and rubbed it with my hands before placing it back where it belonged on that shelf. Of course, I had to pack it when we left Virginia. I mean, after all, it was a gift. I brought it with me when we moved, not becasue of it's "powers" but becasue my best friend gave it to me. However, the PC cabinet remained behind and, in fact, was given to one of our neighbors.

Before the Prez left for Virginia, I'd once again picked up the rock, rolled it around in my palm and this time I placed it in it's new spot on the antique child's desk in my office. Well, the night the Prez packed his bag, our logger called. He had several checks waiting.

Oh, one more thing. I've decided to go into business and it's going to be called:

RENT~A~ROCK

So who wants to be my friend now?????

Keeping A Good Man Down

2012-01-03T05:31:00.012-05:00

I've been avoiding this topic for quite a while now but I feel it's time for me to bring it up. Before I left Virginia, I had somehow injured a tendon behind my left knee. It KICKED, if you know what I mean. I could no longer stoop down and get up with my usual bounce. And who the heck had time to nurse an injury?

We arrived here, unpacked, put all our ~~crap~~ treasures away, and decorated inside and out. I still couldn't put a lot of weight on that knee and couldn't get my heel to touch my butt unless I felt excruciating pain. Before I know it we had a Christening, then Thanksgiving, then it was time to decorate for Christmas, inside and out (yes, with those damn swags that I really do love!!), then it was the little one's birthday. During that whole time I was making a zillion cookies and was on my feet all day. Well, sad to say, but I guess with all that walking and being on my feet twelve to fifteen hours a day, I injured my something again.

Meanwhile, the Prez who had gone to cut some of the trees in his Mom's yard right before Thanksgiving, caught her cold. Well, you know men and how they are when they get sick. And so it was. The Prez remained in the house, in his chair, in his sweats, taking heed whenever I told him to take his medicine. Whatever he caught lasted three weeks and then he was back to normal.

Now bear in mind that in the midst of all of the above, I joined the gym and exercised at least twice a week every week, in addition to walking our small gravel road each morning with the dogs because I thought after doing my morning stretches that the walk would limber me up a tad. WRONG.

Yep, I guess I over did it because I Christmas Eve, when I picked up Tess (the second to the youngest grand daughter) I felt this small "pop" in my left glut. But, it wasn't until about a half hour later, while I standing chatting with the Prez' ex, that I got this horrible burning sensation on my outer thigh that made me want to cry. Drawing in a deep breath, I slowly walked around the front of the sofa and motioned the girls to push over. I sat smiling and nodding and never uttered a word to anyone, including the Prez. I mean...come on...who wants to ruin any one's Christmas????

I made it through the rest of the evening visiting at my daughter's (looking like Hallie Berry, of course!) and before long it was time to head home. However, rather than climbing in the Prez' Dodge diesel, I climbed in the Wrangler, which we had picked up early that afternoon from my son, who had borrowed it while his car was in the shop.  I followed the Prez home and with each and every clutch movement, I grimaced. I hit the sheets as soon as we got home and then rested for nearly two full days after Christmas and was finally able to walk around without grimacing and wincing in pain.

I skipped the gym the week after Christmas...intentionally. But then more frivolity was on the horizon as it was my birthday Wednesday, the 28th. You what I got from Mother Nature...a whole tree on the roof!   We always made a good team, I thought, working side by side with the Prez. We had started right after breakfast and didn't stop until 2:30pm until my BIL and SIL left. Meanwhile whatever I had injured was once again killing me as I dragged branches and lifted pieces of the trunk, dragging it away from the house.

At first I thought my injury was muscular but as the days passed, I began to think about a pinched nerve...sciatic. Now I'm leaning towards an injury to my iliotibial band which apparently runs from the upper thigh down to the lower leg (of course, that a self dianosis).  However, after treating the pain with RICE (rest, ice, compression & elevation) and focusing on stretches and exercises to rebound, I have felt an improvement.

And so the morning of the 2nd, I felt good enough to walk the road with the kids. WRONG. Oh, I made it down and back and have been walking around doing laundry, which requires stair climbing and a few other things. I WILL HEAL...I just have to do what the Prez does...stay put and cool it in order to rebound.

I do not do drugs other than Aleve. I have had bad experiences with pain medications and muscle relaxers so I, my friends, am laying low while the Prez was in Virginia. I am applying Arniflora Arnica Gel and the Eco Natural Arthritis Joint Relief Balm frequently. After all, there are a lot of gravel roads for me to climb!

Yep...there's a lesson here:
It's hard to keep a good man down...let alone when it's yourself!

It Is What It Is

2012-01-02T05:45:00.004-05:00

I couldn't help but watch each and every step it took as it made it's way up the driveway. It was big, beautiful, muscular and black. It headed around the garage so I lost sight of it for a few moments. Knowing where it would come out once it passed the garage, I immediately thought, Oh, I can't wait to see this!

Moon spotted it first and immediately let out a single bark...you know, that bark, in that tone, calling for reinforcements...calling for Copper. Then before I knew it, it was up the tree, sitting comfortably, perched on what appeared to be mere twigs waiting and watching the two clever (yeah, right?) canines as they continued to circle the tree again and again. Uh duh?? Which way did it go?

After telling the Prez what was going on, he decided to take the two "trackers" for a walk down the ggravel road so it could and would climb down safely.

See how it's just sort of "balanced" on that small limb near it's hind legs. Oh, it hemmed and hawed for quite a while after the Prez left the yard with the dogs. I was actually wondering if it was thinking, Yikes this is higher than I thought!

Growing tired of holding the camera as I stayed glued to the window, I placed my finger on the shutter button as it finally made a move. When it began it's descent, it almost looked as if it was sliding down because it came front paws first! I always thought cats came down trees backwards, but hey, it is what it is!

Then it made it's way slowly through the brush slinking along to the fence line then walking paralell to it for a while before escaping through the opening and disappearing into the thick woods behind us.

Meanwhile, when my two diligent canines returned, all they got was all the leftover "sniffs" all around Nature's Foxy Tree. Funny, but for days after it was here, the kids continued to pick up it's trail alway repeating their same maneuvers...around the tree, sniff the trunk, then along the ground to the fence. Whoever it belongs to, it is well cared for. Perhaps, it is a recarnation of my Vern.

New Year=New Things

2012-01-01T00:01:00.067-05:00

Happy New Year said the flower as it reached toward the sun. Methinks I like our new home. As do I, said the budding clusters on the Crown of Thorns. Before I knew it, each and every one of my houseplants seemed to have something new to show me as they prepare to welcome in the New Year. Generating new growth from energy within, they are obviously looking forward to the New Year.

I learned a lot in 2011 and have much to be grateful for.

Like the things that I care for, I am looking forward to the new year. I can feel the energy within generating new growth. I anxiously await my adventures and sharing them with you...:)

P.S. To my friend, Dorothy, who lives in Callaway, VA. So what do you think of your Mom's cactus? Hugs and kisses to Harwell! Yet another person in my life for whom I am grateful.

"It's Where You Live"

2011-12-31T05:44:00.000-05:00

About a week before Christmas, my best friend came by the house. Look what she brought with her! I got all sorts of treasures...a bottle of Sarsaparilla...from "Hosmer Mountain which lies in the heart of New Englandin the pristine northeastern section of Connecticut, known as the Quiet Corner. A rather minor geological formation, it forms a ridge of the valley known as Willimantic." Then there was a bag of coffee beans which came from Quiet Corner Coffee Roasters. I also received two (not just one!! but two) re-usable totes for shopping, groceries, "saving the world-1 bag at a time!" Does that mean because I have two that I'll save it twice as fast? Only kidding...LOL!

I also got real honest to goodness gaiters...and they work too! I tried them one day when I walked with Moon and Copper. Everything I got came from right HERE in Northeastern Connecticut! After the holidays, I plan on stopping by TLGV main office but for now, I'm partial to that bright blue bag because it not only matches my car but also says "It's Where You Live," referring to The Last Green Valley. Here's the link...go check it out! http://www.tlgv.org/index.php

After having coffee at the house, we then headed out shopping for several hours winding down with a grinder at Subway and a small trip to the grocery store. We had fun as always and of course, there are a lot of adventures waitng to be had here in A Quiet Corner!

Giveaway Arrives

2011-12-30T17:54:00.000-05:00

Right before Christmas, I received my package in the mail from Eco Natural Soap...http://econaturalsoap.com/

I had won a giveaway earlier in the month from Lisa at Two Bears Farm. I was excited. You see, I had never won a giveaway so I was really pumped. In fact, for days I had been asking the Prez each time he walked down to get the mail "Did I get a package?" And his response was always the same, "No, not today, Honey." Then in he walked and this time he volunteered the info which is rare for him, " Honey, your package is here!"

In it was my Seaweed Facial Soap, my Arthritis and Joint Relief Balm which really does help my hands a lot, and my Lemon Lip Balm. So the next time you see me, I should look younger, having fewer wrinkles, moist lips and no pain whatsoever!!!

Hanging of the Doors

2011-12-29T11:09:00.001-05:00

When he called to ask us for "a hand", I knew that the Prez would enjoy this visit since he likes to build, frame, and be the "go to" guy. Yep, close is good.

...:) JP

Have Kong Will Travel

2011-12-29T05:26:00.000-05:00

Copper modifies a stick

When the Prez was down in Virginia getting the third trip, I called to see how things were. "Guess what?" he said. "I found Copper's Kong!" When I asked where he'd found it he told me it was on the hill where they used to go you know what.

When he arrived here with the trailer full, out of the back seat of the truck it came. Of course Moon and Copper were anxiously waiting to greet the Prez. Copper and Moon have never been dogs when it comes to toys. They'll settle for anything when it comes to play. Sticks work just fine once they modify them a little.

However, when Copper saw what was heading in his direction, his tail was wagging so hard and so fast, he even let out a few joyful yips which is unusual since he, unlike Moon, is not a vocal dog.

Even Copper needs a little rest now and then and so does his stick. You should see the stash of sticks he has right outside his "condo."

However, when I was out in the yard taking a few pictures, look who has now found a spot in what I'm hoping will be perennials...and look what he's got with him!!! He hides it in his crate...way in the back!.

We're down to one Kong for him now where in Virginia we had two...an everyday and a "back-up."

I guess I know what Santa will be bringing him this year!!

Oh, What A Birthday Surprise...

2011-12-28T19:46:00.000-05:00

Today is December 28th. It is my birthday. Now originally I wasn't going to bother writing anything nor was I going to tell you it was my birthday because you might think I was soliciting Birthday Wishes. However...yep, there's a however. Here goes:

Tuesday night we had a heavy rain storm come through our area along with fierce winds. I guess it was about 10:30pm when I decided to hit the sheets. And so I did. I had just begun to fall asleep when I heard a series of crashes, scraping and squeaking like chalk on a blackboard. I shouted out to the Prez. And that was a tree, honey!

I no sooner got the words out and he was out of his comfy leather chair and heading out the front door, saying something like, "Lets hope it didn't hit my truck." Meanwhile I headed in the direction of the noise I heard...toward the deck and said, It came from the back, honey...it's on this side where the dogs are!

Turning on the outside light, I spotted Moon through the mess in the dark. She apparently was awakened from a sound sleep by the crashing limb, bolted out of her house and was so scared she just stood there in the pouring rain and heavy winds. The Prez broke off the smaller limbs blocking her door and I got her to go back in and settle down. The damn tree on the edge of the woods, split and fell right on the house, with some of the branches right on top of her condo!! Turning and walking into the dining room through the slider, the Prez said, We'll look at it tomorrow.

Well, "tomorrow" was my birthday. Did I get flowers? No. Did I get a cake? No. But what I did get was a big surprise from Mother Nature. I got a whole damn tree! Come on now, gang, who could ask for anything more for their birthday?

However, the best gift of all was, there was minimal damage to the house! No damage done to the roof except for one shingle up on the peak believe it or not! The gutter received a few "dings" but that was it. The dents were small enough for the Prez to straighten them out along with the clips and it will work as good as new. Of course, the hard part was taking it apart, piece by piece, branch by branch, severing the leaning trunk from the tree itself, cutting it bit by bit until it became manageable for the Prez and I.

We had accomplished quite a bit by mid morning when I called in reinforcements with a simple text message. My SIL and BIL responded within three minutes and said they were on the way! Yes, close is awesome especially for birthdays...let alone for tree removal!

During the whole process, Copper wanted to play (what else is new?). Moon, on the other hand took it more seriously and waited at the edge of the woods, safe up above the wall. She was very relieved when I swept off the deck, placed her feeding station next to her house and she was, once again, able to relax!

Close Matters

2011-12-28T05:47:00.002-05:00

December 11th was my youngest grand daughter's third birthday. The Prez and I had gone to Target and picked up a few things that the little one had been eying. The food was great. Visiting with my son's in-laws again was just as great. However, I have to admit that when the little one came up to me and said, Nana, lets go play in my room. You can throw my animals at me and I can throw them at you, like we did before, OK? When that little girl said that to me, I didn't need to be invited twice. Walking down the hallway to her bedroom hand in hand, I was in heaven!

The party went beautifully especially since I had the chance to spend most of my time with the little one while the adults chatted. Later on, after cake, we were downstairs in what my son calls "the man cave" playing ball when I realized it was time for the Prez and I to hit the road.

"Mia, Nana's got to go home now." Looking perplexed she replied, "Why?" I said, "Nana has to go home and give her doggies some love too." She ran up to me, wrapped her arms and legs around my left leg and said, "Nana, don't go home. Nana, don't leave."

I reached down, lifting her up in my arms and hugged her as tightly as I could.

Yep...it's good to be back and closer to the ones we love...:)

Sleeping Dogs

2011-12-27T05:56:00.000-05:00

Ever since I can remember I've always loved the painting Master Bedroom by Andrew Wyeth. As you can see I have it hanging in one of our bedrooms.

One day, as I looked out the downstairs bedroom window, this is what I saw. Dashing into my office so I wouldn't miss the shot and grabbing the camera out of the antique desk, I couldn't wait to draw back the lace curtains.

There she was my sleeping dog and although she wasn't on or near the Master Bedroom, it didn't much matter to me.

The Return of the Happy Hunter

2011-12-26T05:21:00.002-05:00

The Prez is leaving for Virginia this week. A few days before Christmas, the logger called to tell us he would be moving his equipment to our place and be ready to begin soon. Yep. We are having seventeen of the twenty acres select cut. However, the Prez had told our logger that we wanted to retain an insulation of trees around the open acres. I have such mixed emotions about having it done. I do know that it's good for the trees and I also know that it will be good for our pocket book as well. In fact, on the 23rd, we got a call saying he got his first load and it was "prime" lumber (which means no dead/diseased centers I found out from the Prez).

So, the "Happy Hunter" is making the trip down to checkout the logging process and also catch the remainder of muzzle loader season for hunting. He hasn't had a chance to hunt at all because of the move, so it's well deserved. Besides while he's down there, he'll have a chance to sit and chew the fat with Buddy, who we both miss seeing and our other neighbors as well.

But meanwhile, I wanted to tell you that
ANOTHER ONE BIT THE DUST!!!
No...not a swag...
one of the deer!!!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T05:25:00.002-05:00

Now I know it's Christmas but I wanted to share this with you and what better time to share than today!

You see, I found my present right here in my own back yard.

Nature's Fox

So, you tell me...

how cool is that?

It's a tree trunk that sits right above my stone wall. So each day as I look out the kitchen windows, there it is...Nature's Fox!

I told you I was blessed!

A New Love??

2011-12-24T05:07:00.004-05:00

Sure...break my heart just when I needed you most!
It couldn't have happened at a worse time. Just as I was about to sprinkle the confectioner's sugar on the warm cookies, it broke. The damn pin popped out and that was the end of my eight year old Dollar Store sifter! Oh crap! Now what I am going to do? I thought frantically especially with a few recipes left!

The search began...WalMart, Target, Ocean's State Job Lot, JC Penny, Kohl's. What they had wasn't what I wanted or needed. Call me fussy, but I knew when I found the right one, I would know!

Wandering into TJ Maxx after my workout at the gym I knew I was looking for bathroom rugs. Yet something called me down the kitchen isle and there it was...the love of my life...the best little sifter ever!!! Now it may not look like much in these pictures but how good can you expect a sifter to look?

Not only does it have a lid on top and a lid on the bottom, but also all you do to "sift" is gently shake it side to side! No more squeezing a handle...it's all in the wrist!

Now I KNOW you all are wondering about me and my cookie frenzie so I have to report the numbers are in! Besides it's easy for me to take a head count today since I'm preparing "the bags." I surpassed last year's total!!!

Peanut Butter Kisses
Orange Delights

Peanut Butter Balls

Chocolate Chip

Peanut Butter Chip (new this year)

Chocolate Chocolate Chip (new this year)

Russian Teacakes

Spritz

Italian Drop

Ginger Crinkles

Molasses

Oatmeal Raisin

Coconut

Macaroons

Cranberry/Oatmeal/Coconut Bars

Toffee Bars (new this years)

Lemon Bars

Brownies

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip

And

3 Pumpkin Pies

1 Coconut Cream Pie

1 Carrot Cake

And

4 lbs of Crab Salad

6 Cheeseballs

(sorry....no pic...in frig...LOL!!!)

Can you tell I like to share?

HO! HO! HO!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Christmas in Connecticut

2011-12-23T05:50:00.000-05:00

Several of you have told me that it will be a wonderful Christmas this year because we can spend time with the kids and grandchildren. You’re right! Living in Virginia, we would make the ten hour drive and generally arrive at my MIL’s shortly after supper because we would inevitably hit the five o’clock traffic (let alone the last minute shoppers in and around every Mall we had to pass).

The next few days we would attempt to cram in visits with everyone to the point where we would go to one relative’s house, stay a few hours, then move on to the next. Constantly shuffling from one home to another as they would extend such thoughtful invitations. Before we knew it, the few days would pass and we would hit the road at 5:00am to once again make the ten hour trek back to Virginia. After doing that for eight years, we are more than happy to say that this year we will enjoy our Christmas in Connecticut. Life is good...and sometimes...letting it happen is even better!!

This year, we will spend Christmas Eve with my daughter and her sweetheart, bringing pumpkin pie, shrimp cocktail, crab salad, home made cheese ball, coconut pie, lemon bars and of course, a cookie tray to share. Christmas Day will find us at our new home enjoying each other's company, that of our dogs, more good food and more time with family!...:)

P.S. Even my snowman made the trip home. Funny story about my snowman...remind me to tell you that one.

Christmas in CT

Here's hoping you ALL have the most wonderful Christmas ever!!

I know I will...:)

Coconuts!!

2011-12-22T05:45:00.000-05:00

After telling you how good Bev's Coconut Cookies were and that you wanted the recipe, Bev told me that I could share HER recipe (I told you she was a sweetie!). So without further adieu:

COMBINE:

1 1/4 cups flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

MIX:

1/2 butter (soft)

1/2 c brown sugar

1/2 cup white sugar

1 egg

1/2 tsp vanilla

ADD:

1 1/3 coconut

Bake @ 350 on ungreased cookie sheet 3" apart for 8-11 min. Cool on rack.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

While I had coconut on the brain, here's another awesome favorite of mine, Coconut Macaroons (from Roberta, another wonderful person and former colleague).

Last night I made up the cookies and today the dipping will be done along with dipping the eight dozen Peanut Butter Balls.

Coconut Macaroons:
2 1/2 cups shredded coconut (I use close to 4!)
1 Tbs Corn Starch + 2 Tsp Corn Starch
3/4 cup sugar
2 Tbsp unsalted Butter (cut into pieces)
1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup
1 Tsp vanilla
1/4 Tsp Salt
2 Eggs Whites lightly beaten

Preheat Oven to 375, butter & flour well a heavy baking sheet.

In a medium bowl combine coconut & corn starch. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, vanilla & salt. Bring to boil over high heat while stirring constantly. Boil for 30 seconds, remove from heat and stir in coconut/corn starch mixture. Add half of beaten egg white and mix until thoroughly incorporated. Add remaining egg white. Mixture will now become a ball (although I refer to it as a "blob"!).

Return to high heat & cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Let cool for about 30 minutes. It handles better and keeps shape when baked.

With WET hands (I use cold water), break off tablespoon size pieces. Roll into balls and place on cookie sheet 1 inch apart.

Bake 10 minutes or until tops just begin to turn golden brown.

Turn, if need be, halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Let cookies cool on cookie sheet.

Melt chocolate pieces in a double boiler (I use Ghiradelli choc & white). Dip room temperature balls into chocolate of choice, scraping excess & dry on waxed paper. You can make them ahead and freeze them, then dip your balls closer to the day they will be devoured!!!!

These are absolutely mouth "wateringly" delicious!!

P.S. These can be made to taste like an Almond Joy if you put an almond in the center of the cookie, then dip in chocolate.

Trimming…not the Tree

2011-12-21T05:50:00.003-05:00

Remember that woman, Bonnie, I met in the grocery store who told me who her hair dresser was? Well, on Tuesday afternoon, I went to my appointment. Now let me explain that I am not a snob, never have been, never want to be, if you catch my drift. As I walked into this salon for the first time, after smiling and saying hello, I sat as all good customers sit. However it wasn’t long before I felt so comfortable that I joined in on the conversation.

Meanwhile Megan came over, introduced herself to me and said she’d be right with me. When I walked in, I felt frumpy. Do you know what I mean by frumpy. My hair had grown so much since I last went to Mike. After all, it had been since September. (Mike, if you read this, you can imagine what I looked like!) Anyway, frumpy is the only way I can describe it.

Megan began with the typical wash and comb out. We decided short was the look. Then I watched her whittle away, trimming, notching and shaping. As I watched myself transform into a look that, as Mike used to say “was me,” my attitude changed. No longer frumpy.

All I can say is that I look like Halle Berry…except of course, she’s just a tad prettier…not by much though! Personally, I think it's her earrings! I think I'll look for a pair like those!

Oh, one more thing, I made my next appointment with Megan!!
She’s a keeper!

A Working Dog?

2011-12-20T05:43:00.000-05:00

They told us Moon was a Shepherd, Husky mix with some Chow thrown in as well. She is a working dog most of the time.

Each morning, while the coffee pot is making my joy juice, this is what I see outside the dining room slider

Waiting like a good working dog should do.

But then, at least once a day, her alter ego comes out and she transforms into her cazy side. I've always referred to this as my "wild woman"

She too was elated that her Kong made it to Connecticut!

Another One Bites The Dust

2011-12-19T05:41:00.000-05:00

If you noticed, I put my favorite swags under the windows around the house. When I put them up though, I ran into a slight dilemma. The house in Virginia was made of wood with wooden trim around the windows and my favorite swags were a non-event. However, this house has vinyl siding along with vinyl trim around the doors and windows. Although I love both the color and texture, I did have just a slight problem "hanging" decorations. Not wanting to put a hole in the siding nor vinyl trim, I wanted to find a "work around." This is what it was referred to back in the days when I worked at the bank.

I love that expression: find a work around

No big deal, I thought. I began with these "Command" strip hooks that apparently are the latest rage because they were sold everywhere! I took the bait, I'll admit buying two large packages and then hung the swags. The next morning as I circled the house admiring the decorations, there two were that had bit the dust during the night! They had become unstuck and landed right near the patio.

It was time for more drastic measures so I then moved on to double sided sticky tape that will withstand moisture. Don't waste your money folks! Good luck with that crap because, the next day, once again, down on the ground. Determined to get these ~~damn~~ favorite swags hung and looking absolutely adorable on this house, I hit the local hardware stores in search of "Vinyl Siding Hangers" that I found on the internet

Buy local...everyone always says so I headed over to the local hardware store. According to the manager at True Value, "they are out of season." "OUT O F SEASON," raising my voice, "this is the time of the year the everyone is hanging all sorts of stuff (she's lucky I didn't say CRAP) on their homes." No matter, she would contact me when they came in for the "season" which is flippin' August!!

Undauted by my dilemma, I continued to search high and low for something that would do the job. I really thought I'd lucked out when I met the manager of the WalMart automotive department. He suggested automotive double sided sticky tape. "It hold cars together...it should do the trick." And so I did as he suggested...cruised over to the automotive section, picked up the tape (two rolls, I might add!) and headed home. The Prez snickered as I once again went window to window.

Using the double-sided automotive tape to secure the hooks, I then proceeded to simply hang the swags on the hooks. It worked. IT HELD...well, for about ten days anyway. Then there they were on the ground again.

This time, I decided to rely on my own logic. Heading for my "craft corner" (which really isn't a corner but rather two entire four drawer dressers), I found just what I needed. Pipe cleaners! Twisting two pipe cleaners together, I anchored the ends through the swag, then around the hook and then, opened the window and twisted the pipe cleaner ends around. Slamming the windows shut right on the pipe cleaners, I now realized that my swags were not going anywhere...at least not until I attempt to take them down! Lets hope I can get them down and don't pull off the vinyl siding in the process!!

Oh, one more thing...I'm ording those hooks in August!

Waiting

2011-12-18T06:13:00.021-05:00

Once she hears the coffee maker, she's up and out of her bed...I mean condo...and on the deck outside the dining room...waiting. So as the coffee brews, I head in that direction, knowing just what to expect. I know what's coming. Kisses and a little chatter will be all mine once I open the door and stoop down.

Meanwhile, the boy (aka Copper) is still out like a light tucked snugly away in his condo. After all, he has a dog door to help keep out the chill. Generally he doesn't budge until I come out with their breakfast. Then he's ready to play!

Window of Opportunity

2011-12-17T06:30:00.054-05:00

I've decided that the world is just that...a window of opportunity!

Late in the afternoon when the sun is going down, it gives me much pleasure as it hovers among the tree tops outside the living room window. Our builder placed this house perfectly. In fact, although I tried to get a picture of it, there is a pond that can just barely seen through the tall pines.

In this picture, the pond can be seen right above the first layer of green. However, since I wanted you to get a better idea, the kids and I took a walk the other day. Of course, Moon and Copper are not used to traffic which posed a slight problem when we went to cross the road to get our pictures. I definitely have to work on that with them (for now we won't go there)!

I know I told you somewhere along the line that the geese fly over the house twice a day but I'm not yet sure if this pond is where they're going or if it's the dam that's about a mile away. When I met Mary Ellen and Butch, they told me how they go down to the dam and see American Bald eagles each spring. I can't wait for that adventure! Meanwhile, I want to follow the geese. Gosh, I wish I could fly!

Welcomed Friends

2011-12-16T06:19:00.034-05:00

The bird feeders didn't arrive until the third trip and I must admit that I just picked up the seed a few days ago at a Tractor Supply store that is close by. Anyway, I filled the feeders and then the waiting began. But two days later, as the Prez and I returned from our walk down the gravel road with Moon and Copper, we saw some interesting activity. We saw feathered friends picking away at the seed and the suet. Now I just have to take a few pictures with birds in them!

I don't want to get too excited, but there's been a nice Red Tail Hawk frequently the edge of the yard. Oh we also have geese flying over twice a day. There's a pond close by which I know I want to explore. I do know that the "locals" have found the feeders because they are very active with Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, Chicadees and Nuthatches.

Ultimate Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-12-15T17:27:00.000-05:00

You know I'm not big on recipes but if there's someone important enough...someone who touches my heart in some way...and they ask, then I'm glad to share. Since my buddy, Bev requested it, here's the recipe from A Taste of Home:

Ultimate Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies..................they are AWESOME!!!
(courtesy of Nestle')

Ingredients:
2 cups all purpose flour
3/4 Nestle Toll House Baking Cocoa
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup butter or margarine softened
2/3 cup sugar
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunks

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degreese F
2. Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda, salt in a medium bowl. Beat butter, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla in a large mixing bowl until creamy. Beat in eggs. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in chunks. Drop by rounded tablespsonn onto ungreased baking sheets.
3. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until cookies are puffed and centers are set but still soft. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

P.S. I will tell you that these suckers taste like you're eating fudgie brownies!!!!

On A Roll

2011-12-15T15:31:00.002-05:00

Today was a little showery so after the Prez got back from grocery shopping, he dipped all the Peanut Butter Balls and the Coconut Macaroons while I worked on the Ginger Crinkles...:)

I only have one more kind to make which I'll do next week along with the pies, cheese balls and crab salad. That way each of the four kids has that to share with drop ins.

Whew! I'm pooped.
...:) JP

New This Year

2011-12-15T10:38:00.002-05:00

Each year I introduce the kids to a new cookie. Then I patiently await the reviews without solicitation. This a recipe that appeared here in the paper from a woman who is affiliated with A Taste of Home. I just might have to sample one of the Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies!

...:) JP

Is That...Gr...Gr...Grass?

2011-12-15T06:10:00.000-05:00

When we closed in October, our yard had been grated and seeded. I am happy to report that we now have GRASS! Oh, I wouldn't exactly call it a lawn yet, but all these little green hairs are sprouting up everywhere.

It was a very warm Fall with the exception of that nasty snowstorm we had in October and that heavy rain storm we had in December. Today was in the high forties and tomorrow is supposed to be in the fifties again.

I'm hoping that this warm weather will give our grass a chance to grow and establish new roots as we have done.

Can imagine how nice the lawn will be come Spring? If you look closely, you'll see the white plant markers that I stuck in the ground when I planted the perennials. I've also been keeping a close eye on the Hydrangeas and English Boxwood that I brought with me. They appear to be doing well and both have new growth and or buds!

Terrific Tuesday

2011-12-15T05:49:00.001-05:00

Stepping out of the shower, I heard the phone ringing. Good gravy, who could that be it's only 7:30am? Checking the Caller ID, I saw that it was my daughter so I called her right back. She had the day off and wanted to know if we could meet up at Buckland Hills Mall and hang out for a while before she headed off to do her errands on her day off! I jumped at the chance and said, "tell me where and what time."

And so we did just that. Wandering around Michael's I found the cutest little ceramic bake ware for only $1.00. I'll be able to use them to make small loaf cakes so I was excited. Then we hit Joanne Fabric for their sales...picked up my cookie bags there. Oh I won't use them for the kids' cookies as there's too many. But I will be able to use them to give to my neighbors and new hair dresser.

Then we did lunch at Panera's and it hit the spot. Chatting over lunch was just like old times as we devoured our French Onion Soup and Roasted Turkey sandwiches. Then it was time for my daughter to head in her direction and me mine. Buckland Hills is forty minutes drive for both of us so it looks like it will be a good meeting place other than our homes.

Timber…..aka Listen to Your Dog

2011-12-14T05:37:00.002-05:00

Last week that heavy rain storm that hovered over the South for a few days found it’s way to Connecticut. During the day, we had intermittent sprinkles. No big deal. However, that night it got down right nasty!

Awakened by the howling winds and torrential rain, I climbed out of the covers and peeked at the clock. It was 1:30 in the morning and I couldn’t wait to climb back into bed and get back under the covers. Falling back to sleep listening to the wind howl was more relaxing than I realized. Then I was awakened by barking. It was Copper. It sounded as if he was right outside his condo.

In the pitch dark I couldn’t see anything let alone decipher what he was barking at. I decided to wait until daylight before I went out to investigate because he’d stopped and returned to his house. Pulling on my nylon pants over my jammies and zippering my jacket, I shuddered to think how it would feel to be out in this storm. Off I went. Through the garage, filling the red bucket with their breakfast, I grabbed an extra treat for each of them. To tell you the truth, I’d forgotten about the barking until I raised the garage door.

Holy moose poops! There it was. Our forty foot cedar tree was leaning on a cluster of dead trees. Its roots had been ripped from the earth swollen with rain. Crap! Now the Prez would have to contend with another “widow maker.” The Prez knows how to work with trees and chain saws. He's been doing that for forty years, growing up on a farm and living in the country.

After feeding the dogs, I immediately went in. No playing until the rain slowed. Waiting until the Prez got up, I broke the news to him and never finished explaining when he was in the garage ready to push the button for the door. “At least it didn’t hit your truck,” I said.

The day after the storm, the sunny was bright as could be. Have you ever noticed how clean and clear the sky looks after a bad storm?

As the Prez artfully attacked the cluster of dead trees, the cedar remained steady. However, I noticed that the trunk appeared significantly different that it did when it was discovered. Not to worry, the tree is down now resting comfortably.

Note to self:

Always listen to your dog.

Some Things Never Change

2011-12-13T07:10:00.003-05:00

Yep. I'm at it again. Same old spare refrigerator and upright freezer came with us from Virginia. They are still in the garage. And as you can see, I've been baking. Same old Kitchen Aid. Same old cookie sheets and spatula..nothing wrong with old...:)

However, this year I had a new challenge set before me. I had an AWESOME island in my new kitchen to use along with a brand new double oven. The lower oven can be used for convection baking and has eight racks in it. SWEET!!

Last Saturday my mission was to make Chocolate Chip cookies. I got close to twelve dozen. I try to bake every other day and/or when the weather is going to be bad.

When the Prez was up in CT putting up the fence, it rained heavily one of the days so he and our builder went appliance shopping. He was prepared though and he'd been doing his homework for several months in VA.

Yep, he picked out the stove, the microwave, the French door refrigerator and the dishwasher! That night when I called him at his Mom's, he told me that he was exhausted from shopping with Corey but that I would be happy. I am...very happy as I fulfill my baking desires.

Thus far, I've made:

Orange Sandwich Delights
Chocolate Chip
Oatmeal Raisin
Bev's Coconut
Mexican Wedding Cakes
Ginger Crinkles
Molasses
Spritz
Italian Drop
Coconut Macaroons
Peanut Butter Balls
Peanut Butter Kiss
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip

HO! HO! HO!

Legend Has It...

2011-12-12T06:39:00.000-05:00

that this little guy I spotted this morning when I went ouside to feed and play with Moon and Copper, can predict the winter. Well, that's what I was otld as a kid.

Since I couldn't remember how the legend went, or whether I should panic of there was more black or more rust bands, I searched an found this tidbit of information which just blew me away! Click Wooly Catepillar.

Then, I got another point of view from this site: Wooly Weather Predicters?

So, my conclusion is this. This winter will be a mild one. Now whether or not that happens here is entirely another question!

Now What? aka Listen to the Dog

2011-12-11T08:46:00.000-05:00

The other night the rain storm that lingered over the South made it's way to Connecticut. Throughout the day, we only got an occasional sprinkle every now and then. However, that night on our local news and weather, they said we could get up to three inches of rain and that the winds would be heavy at times. That prediction hit us around the middle of the night.

Waking from a sound sleep around 1:30am, I peered out the window and saw the trees that edge the yard swaying to and fro in the driving rain. Awakened by Copper's incessant barking, I looked at the clock and although it was only 4:45am, I got up thinking "now what?" You see, Copper not only is a good watch dog, he also barks at anything that is out of place. For instance, one time he sat under the ceiling fan and looked up at it barking because I'd neglected tot urn it back on after cleaning it!

Pulling on my nylon pants over my jammies and fastening my parka, I stepped into my rubbers and headed outside in the torrential wind and rain. The motion detector clicked on and there he stood outside his condo

facing the fence. Shining the flashlight towards the spot where the Prez parks his truck, I saw what was wrong.

Taking this picture the following day, you can see just what it was. The forty foot cedar had been disturbed ...it's roots torn from the earth swollen with rain. It was now "hung up" is a cluster of smaller trees and no long stood tall and erect.

Notes to self:

Tell the Prez to get out the chain saws.

Always listen to the dog.

Finding Places and Faces

2011-12-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

Last week I scooted into Stop & Shop, a grocery store chain here in CT. As I walked passed the fresh fruit and headed down the isle, I couldn't help but notice a woman who had "the perfect" haircut...a haircut that I would love IF I could find the right hairdresser.

You all know I had to leave Mike in VA and quite honestly, I haven't had a haircut since September. I'm looking and feeling frumpy. I hate frumpy!! So I did what any red blooded American woman would do. I walked up to this total stranger and just asked her where she gets her hair done.

She not only wrote down the gal's name and phone number, but also gave me awesome directions on how to get there. When I got out to my car, I called and asked to speak to Megan to which she aptly replied,"This is Megan." My response? "Megan you don't know me yet but you will soon." To my surprise, she said, "Is this JP? Bonnie just called to tell me that you'd be calling."

How sweet was that of Bonnie, the woman in the grocery store!!!! Now I can't wait for Tuesday to come around!

What a Welcome!

2011-12-10T06:22:00.000-05:00

The Prez was in VA loading up the trailer with the last of the stuff from the garage. We had decided what would come last and remain on the trailer until we build a second garage. Anyway, I went into town so I could register to vote at Town Hall.

Using the GPS to help me find the way was the easy part. As I pulled up to the building I noticed that Town Hall was located on a one way street. I rolled down my window after coming to a stop near a Bus Stop and asked two women if I could park in the lot behind them. They assured me I could as it belonged to a restaurant that doesn't open until late afternoon.

I parked and walked through the lot crossing the one way street and entered Town Hall. Following the signs to find the Registrar went seamlessly as did the registration process. Then I figured as long as I was there, I would find out what was needed to get the dogs licensed here in CT. Those folks were as sweet as could be. Yep. I think I'm going to like it here. Everyone I've met has been nice...really nice...very down to earth.

I crossed the street and walked over to my car. I was driving the Mini. As I approached though I noticed that my license plate was crinkled. Looking more closely I also saw that the license plate frame was bent and that there were two small dents, one on each side of the plate. Someone had hit my car while I was in Town Hall!! Did they leave their name, address and insurance information? Absolutely not!!! Welcome to CT, I thought, what a welcome!

I'll NeverKnow (cont.)

2011-12-09T06:01:00.047-05:00

Shortly after I got in the house on Thanksgiving morning, the phone rang. It was my daughter. Wooried about Moon, I really was not in the mood for chit chat. She immediately said that I sounded cranky. Holding back the ears, I replied, "I'm not cranky. I'm worried about my dog." Of course, once I explained she, too, wondered what could have happened to Moon. "Try not to let it ruin your day, Mom" she said reassuringly.

We went to my son's and visited with everyone. My granddaughter made me forget. In fact, I was so consumed by her that I forgot all about Moon. But reality set in quickly as the afternoon wore on and then I got anxious to head home. However, when we arrived back home only Copper greeted us at the back gate. No Moon. She was moving as slowly as when we'd left Thanksgiving morning. No change. Again I approached and let her make the move. Damn! There was no improvement since that morning. I was concerned that it might be a pinched or severed nerve in her spine if she had taken a bad tumble off the stone wall or landed the wrong way.

Friday morning though, a glimmer of hope appeared. She let me at least remove her collar with only a short whimper. In doing so, I felt along and around her neck for wounds. Nothing. No cuts. No scabs. I decided that the best thing we could do was to stay in the house all day and let her rest. It was yet another warm sunny day and I noticed that she was basking in the sun. In fact, it was if she was following it, always lying with the injured side facing the warm rayts. Observing Copper only a few feet from her as if he was protecting her, reinforced the decision that we would stay in.

She remained in the sun all day and later that afternoon, her posture showed a huge improvement. Seeing her sit on the hill near the patio, hold her head erect and straighten her ears, watching our neighbors intently made me once again be grateful. When I saw the Saturday forecast, I was elated that it was going to be another sunny warm day in the 60's as was Sunday. She would once again be able to draw on Mother Nature to repair her body. Moon soaked up the sunshine all weekend and on Sunday morning when I went outside, she eagerly trotted towards me, taking my hand in her mouth just as she's always done since we found her seven years ago!

Moon was on the mend and would be back to normal in no time. Although I'll never know what happened to her, I do know that my prayers were once again answered.

I'll Never Know

2011-12-08T05:26:00.002-05:00

When I got up Thanksgiving morning, I was excited because this year, although we wanted to have dinner here, we'd been invited to my son's. They bought their home in September so he and his wife wanted to have everyone over there. The Prez and I were bringing a few things to help out. We've been deep frying our turkey for years now and our son had asked if we could pack up the fryer and cook the bird at their house. I made stuffing, turnips, pumpkin pie, apple crisp and brought along some of our famous fresh frozen corn (that we did in the summer), biscuits and cranberry sauce.

Anyway after I drank my morning coffee, I put on my yard jacket and pants right over my jammies and headed outside to get my early morning kisses from Moon and Copper and walk the gravel road. As usual Copper was exuberant. But something was wrong...seriously wrong...with Moon. She couldn't hold her head erect. Her ears remained lowered against her head. When our eyes met, I could see that she was in pain. She was hobbling, holding her head tipped to one side. My first thought was that she had had a stroke and was partially paralyzed. Seeing her like that was heartbreaking.

What made it worse was that as I approached her, rather than coming towards me, she backed away as if she was afraid of me! What the hell had happened to my baby girl? My mind began to reel. Did Copper go after her? But that couldn't be, I thought. They've been together so many years and as I tried to pet her, he came over and forced his way between Moon and I. It was as if he didn't want me to hurt her. Then I wondered if she tangled with something during the night...a raccoon perhaps. My builder told us that there are Fisher Cats around these woods. I wondered about that too. Then I wondered if someone had grabbed her through the fence and we hadn't heard it. I thought that perhaps her collar got caught on something either her crate or the fence and that she tugged to hard to get free that she hurt herself.

Once I was finally able to get close enough to Moon, I fell to my knees and let her make the first move. Her tail was not wagging. Reaching out I gently touched her back and let my hand slide across her spine. One hand on each hip and slowly down her legs. Then I placed my hand on her left shoulder and once again down her front leg. It was when I touched her right shoulder that she screamed out in pain. Gently I took hold of her collar to draw her near. Again, she let out a shriek. I couldn't touch her head or ear without her crying. After I got her into her crate and turned to walk away, I burst into tears and prayed.

to be continued...

Friends are for...

2011-12-07T15:52:00.002-05:00

sharing! And that's just what Bev did. She shared one of her famous recipes with me. I made them this afternoon for the Prez and THEY ARE A KEEPER as is Bev! In fact, they were so tasty that my MIL and Sister want the recipe AND I'm going to make another batch to introduce to the kids as the "new kid on the block."

The story is simple. While out grocery shopping last week, the Prez and I hit nearly every major grocery store close to us. First we hit Big Y to get their deals. Then we hit Super Walmart to get their deals. Next in line was Aldis and lastly was Stop & Shop. Now when we were at Aldis, a wear house type grocery store where everything is in cases and you help yourself., I spotted a package of cookies that my MIL has at her house all the time. Placing them in the carriage, I told the Prez that I would stash them until Mama came over to visit again. He laughed as he responded, "Sure, like cookies are going to last with you in the house!"

So they were strategically placed in the back of the cupboard. Then one night we wanted a little something. Of course, I could have broken into the cookies I've been baking for the kids, but instead I opened that package. Now the Prez has never been fond of anything too sweet, but these he really took a shine to.

Bev and I email back and forth regularly so I thought that since she is in my eyes, the Recipe Queen, I asked if she had a good recipe I could try. She came through with flying colors as I'd told her the consistency we were looking for...not too sweet, chewy, crispy.

A Condo?

2011-12-07T06:21:00.000-05:00

We'd only been here at short time when the Prez told me about a condo that was going to be built. Holy moose poops, I thought! Well actually, it was was more like oh, crap...probably even worse!

That day was the day I decided to go exploring. No, not for adventures...for things that we needed. I'd gone out for the day in an attempt to find my way around a little and pick up a few things on "the list." Thank goodness for my GPS. However, I did find that we are only about five miles aways from grocery stores, drugstore and a mall. We live in the Center, if you will, so the Post Office and Fire Department is close-by as well.

By the time I returned, I was given the full scoop on the condo. He told me to meet him out back for the explanation. There it was. No, not on the fifty five acres behind us. It was in our yard! The Prez had built a condo for Moon and Copper!!! It is awesome. We plan on painting it the same color as the house once the wood weathers.

As you can see, there is an overhang that protects their feeding stations on both sides. Let me also add that the finished product is insulated and has a wall divider in it as well. The roof is hinged so it can be lifted which is great becausee each unit is large enough to put their crate into. You see, Moon and Copper were crate trained as pups although we removed the doors as soon as they knew the command "your bed."

We did, however, put a dog door on Copper's side to help keep the chilly air out and the warm air in. Moon seems to love the cool nights. Besides, she's never been one to feel "trapped, closed in." She delights in her freedom...I think she takes after me!

Here's a side view with Copper snacking and Moon lying next to the housing for our generator.

Writer: Set up your blog - Set up your blog in Writer

2011-12-06T11:00:00.000-05:00

Wow! I just downloaded Writer from Windows and am going to teach myself how to use it! Thanks Delores…JP

Writer: Set up your blog - Set up your blog in Writer

TA~DA

2011-12-06T10:24:00.001-05:00

Checkout the page "Welcome...Come On In" you guys...:)

Hey, did you hear? I WON A GIVE AWAY!!!! And, how cool is this? It's from Lisa, one of my "good neighbors" in VA! All those give aways she had while I lived there, I never won a single one. Go figure, now that I moved and left the "hood," I get picked! I am so psyched...the last time I won anything was an awesome book from Delores.

Let There Be Cookies!

2011-12-06T06:20:00.002-05:00

Let it be written, let is be said

Cookie making with family is NOTHING TO DREAD!!!!

One Sunday, I got help from my son, his wife and our youngest granddaughter, Mia!

Mia sporting my VA cowgirl hat!

No need to ask me how this day was!!!

More Company

2011-12-05T05:58:00.032-05:00

The first time we closed the garage door, it stuck out like a sore thumb. It was still light outside and we could clearly see that the sweep on the bottom of the garage door was damaged. Telling our builder the next time we saw him, he assured us that he would have the installer stop by and replace the sweep. What we didn't realize was that the rubber sweep had apparently been chewed...shavings scattered around the area as if someone spilled a container of chocolate sprinkles!

The Prez set down some of those granules close to the door and we simply monitored it for a day or so. It was then that we were unpacking stuff in the garage. As I walked over to the left side of the garage to place a shovel with the others, I saw him scurry out and around the corner of the garage. Topo Gigio had moved in with us! Hopefully you're old enough to know who that is. If not...just click on his name.

He never returned. He's been locked out...shut out...told to move on...as I did not want him or his relatives in my garage, my car or my house! Call me inhospitable, but this company I did not want! After all, Lisa had told me about the difficult time she and her hubby had eradicating...yes, eradicating...a family that had taken up residence in her van!

Terriffic Tuesday

2011-12-04T05:41:00.072-05:00

Gosh, it seemed that I was away from Moon and Copper for ages when in reality it had only been ten days. It was Tuesday and I was expecting the Prez late that afternoon. He was making the ten hour drive with the dogs by himself and I was worried. Why worry? Well, there were two major concerns.

First, the Prez had never traveled that long...alone with the dogs. Secondly, the dogs had never traveled that long in any vehicle and let's face it, ten hours is a long time!! I had told the Prez about the importance of them eating breakfast and stopping to let them relieve themselves. You see, ever since they were pups, I've been the "one." It was a new experience for all three of them.

Anyway, as I was shaking out the throw rugs, I saw a pick-up truck sitting in our driveway with two people in it. Leaning around the corner of the garage, I said, "Can I help you with something, Sir?" Lowering his window to hear me, he responded immediately. "We talked to Corey about possibly building on one of the lots and wanted to take a tour of the house one of these days." My response? "Well, you're here now, right? So shut off the engine and come on in."

That was the day I met Mary Ellen and Butch, as he prefers to be called. They want to have Corey build their house on the lower lot located on the opposite side of the road. They absolutely loved the house and the printed information I gave him regarding the geothermal heat/AC system. They were the second couple to come visit and tour. They were the second couple that will build here, Anne and Tom were the first. I wonder if I have a future in the Real Estate Business? Corey tells me I'm his best salesperson! LOL!!!

When I heard the truck pull in the driveway, I was elated. By the time I got to the truck, the dogs were already in the fenced in area and talking to me from behind the fence. After hugging the Prez and planting a smooch on his pinchy face, I couldn't wait to go and play with the kids and he knew it. That's just what I did...sat right on the ground getting dog kisses from Moon as Copper plopped his fanny right in my lap to get a one-handed body massage! It was heavenly. We were together again!

We walked the perimeter of the fence line and they took in all the sniffs they could before it was time give them their supper. They were here at last...home. Now we just had to get familiar with the surrounding sights and sounds. The first few nights were rough, I'll admit. They stayed outside and barked and barked at nearly every new sight and sound. However, by the end of the week, they were golden! They liked it as much as we did.

Snowstorm in October (cont)

2011-12-03T06:57:00.024-05:00

There he stood. A young boy and as he spoke the gray and white pitt bull took a step forward and entered my house. Immediately I grabbed his leather collar and turned him right around saying, "Oh no, you don't." The young man, dressed only in a red shirt and jeans (even though there was snow on the ground!) and a baseball hat that sat sideways on his head, asked if I knew who the owner of the dog was. "Yes, he belongs over there" pointing to the house that sits behind us on fifty five acres. If you follow that path through the woods, it will take you there."

Settling back down in the living room and picking up my book, I noticed that my cell phone battery would soon be in need of a charge. I'd planned on going outside around five-ish. That way, it would be charged for the night just in case the Prez or the kids called.

Sitting in the car as the heated seats warmed my back I thought about what I would eat for supper once I went in. Suddenly I saw a young man, older than the first, walking up the gravel road from his car. He approached the car and I had only lowered the window a few inches when he spoke. "Do you own a gray and white pitt bull, Maam? Do you know where he belongs? He's such a good dog. I saved him from getting hit four times just now...he was in the middle of the road!"

Once again, I told this young man, who told me he was "Robert from Ashford" as he shook my hand, where the dog belonged and then suggested that if he didn't find the owner home, perhaps he should drop the dog with the local ACO. You see, the dog had been here before. I knew the dog. It was Champ who had belonged to my builder's brother and was temporarily staying with their Mom.

Watching Robert drive off in his red car with the dog sitting in the front seat, I re-focused on my charging cell phone. Only a short time lapsed when there was yet another car pulling up the gravel road. It was my builder...looking for Champ. After telling him of the two visitors, he thanked me and then said, "JP, are you OK? How are you doing with the power outage?" You see he'd been away for the weekend. "Tomorrow I'll come by with my Grandmother's generator so you can warm up a little."

He did just that. When he stopped by Monday afternoon, he told me how he'd gotten Champ at the ACO's that morning and that now Champ would be staying with him and his boxer. I was glad that Champ finally had a place to call home again. As we chatted, I offered to heat up some lentil soup I had in the frig along with a sandwich made with steak smothered in peppers and onions and a few oatmeal raisin bars for dessert. He loves them!

Do you see what I mean about my guardian angel? My builder was under no obligation to come out to the house but he did. In fact, it was while he was at the house and the generator was running, I got my power back. I'd only been without for two days. Others across the state went as long as eight days.

Snowstorm in October?

2011-12-02T05:25:00.010-05:00

One week after we moved in, it snowed here in CT! The Prez had left for VA on Thursday and was planning on returning on Tuesday with the dogs and the second load of stuff which included the generator. I had managed to put everything away from the first trip and the house was looking pretty darn good, I'll admit.

So that Saturday, while on the phone with the Prez, as I watched the wind whipping the trees as if they were mere reeds blowing in the breeze and the snow fall gracefully to the ground, there was a click and then silence. The power was out. I wasn't worried becasue I was just telling the Prez that I'd filled several containers with drinking water and placed them in the frig along with getting the flashlights and several candles out just in case. That was the easy part. I knew I had enough food and water...now I just had to think about heat and communication with the outside world...you know people like our kids.

Of course, the answer was simple, charge the cell phone with the car charger and warm up at the same time. Thank goodness for heated seats!!! I know you all heard about the power outages across the Northeast so I won't belabor the point. I was fortunate though...very lucky. It must have been that guardian angel that follows me.

Power or not, I did get some lovely pictures though...:)

Front Door (facing North)

Our new fence...:)

Looking out Bathroom (facing South)

Stonewall out Kitchen window

As you can see, it was a beautiful sunny day after the storm passed and we only got about 8 inches here so once the sun hit it, it was gone in a matter of days. However, my son and daughter both got one and one half feet out where they live. Across Connecticut, there were only a few communities that did not loose power.

On Sunday, the day after the storm, there was a knock at the door around 3pm. I thought it was my builder but I was wrong.

to be continued

Time Out for...You

2011-12-01T06:10:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday, October 25th, my builder stopped by to work on his "punch list." We have adopted him in the few short days we've known him as he is a young man that you would want for a son and after all, he's younger than our son!

Anyway when he stopped by and mentioned that it was his birthday, I just couldn't help myself. Although I had no cake or cupcakes handy, what I did have was a small stash of goodies in the freezer. So while he and the Prez worked on something in the utility room, I heated up a few oatmeal raisin bars and frantically looked for the candles I'd placed at the back of the baking drawer.

Calling them upstairs and watching his face as I lit the single blue (his favorite color) candle was so rewarding. The three of us...the Prez, him and I...all bellowed out Happy Birthday with smiles on our faces and twinkles in our eyes.

Yes, it was good to be home!

Asking Family for Help

2011-11-30T06:54:00.014-05:00

Have you ever noticed that sometimes it's difficult to ask people for help? It can be difficult but it is something that you simply must do occasionally.

We didn't have a problem asking our son, daughter and her boy friend to help us. We accept the fact that we're older, that this was exhausting and that we couldn't do things quite as quickly as we used to be able to.

Saturday morning we got an early start leaving our friends. We were now anxious to get started as my daughter, her boy friend and my son were meeting us at the house to help unload the trailer. It took them (including the Prez, of course) only a little over two hours to get everything off. Boxes and furniture cam in faster than I could direct it!

After everything on that first load was in, we all took a detailed tour. I was really curious to see what my kids would say about the house, good, bad or otherwise. It was all good. After they left, the Prez and I worked until about 8:00pm. We were so busy, that we completely forgot to eat!

New Home for Mini

For the next few days, our routine was the same from morning til night. After all, the Prez was leaving for VA on Thursday, Oct 27th for the second. It was then he would be bringing the dogs. He only had a few days to finsih building the fence.

I learned that my trash day here is Thursday, which means Wednesday night, we're busy...LOL!!!...pulling the huge bins down the gravel road to the roadside, placing them 18 inches apart. Yep, there's a lesson here: There is a gravel road regardless of where you live (because we've got one here too...just a lot shorter!!) AND trash bins must always be 18 inches apart...:)

The Closing???

2011-11-29T06:37:00.001-05:00

Our Attorney, introduced to us by our Realtor, is a great guy and welcomed us with open arms once we arrived at his office. As he explained all the contractual details to us in the conference room, his secretary knocked gently and entered the room, informing us that the other Attorney was running late as he was tied up in Probate. So, once we finished with Sam, our Realtor invited us to a little get together at his office, an Open House at the agency.

Walking across the parking lot, I grabbed hold of the Prez’ little finger whispering that I was concerned about leaving the Attorney’s. “Not to worry“, he said reassuringly. “They’ll come and get us when they’re ready.”

As it turned out, this diversion was just what I needed to relax! There were nibblies of all kinds…warm, cold and beer and wine and most importantly, the nicest bunch of people you could imagine. Only about a half hour passed when Sam’s secretary came over to get us. So with a glass of white wine (my second, I might add) in one hand and crackers and cheese on a plate in the other, we crossed the parking lot toward our Attorney’s. The Prez had his beer and plate as well as we took our seats around the conference table.

Before we knew it, it was done. The house was ours! As we raised our glasses/cans, I felt the tension and anxiety replaced by comfort and joy. At last…at long last…we were almost home! Our builder and his attorney, a local Probate Judge, turned over the keys.

Although I wanted to go to the house and begin the arduous task of unloading, the Prez suggested that we return to our friend’s. And so we did. We picked him up and went grocery shopping, applying for our new Big Y Silver Rewards grocery cards and caught a great deal on fried fish, French fries and slaw. It hit the spot! You see, grocery shopping is the Prez' forte...groceries that would go in our brand new refrigerator!

VA to CT

2011-11-28T16:37:00.000-05:00

Eager to get to our new home in CT, the ride seemed to take much longer than usual. While the Prez towed the trailer, I followed in the Mini. Our vehicles were both stuffed to ceilings as we ventured out that morning. I thought I would be sad, but wasn't. My belief has always been that each day holds a new discovery, if we let it in. I was ready for new adventures!

Although we left at 7:30, we didn’t arrive at our friends house until 8:45pm. Not only bushed but also feeling a little stressed because of driving at night, which neither one of us like I might add, we were anxious to get to their house. My friend had sent me a text saying “clean sheets were waiting“, which was music to our ears! It was the best thing she could have said, let alone greeting us with open arms!

I know I crashed earlier than the Prez who stayed up to gab with my friend's husband. Looking back, I don’t even remember saying goodnight to either of them or the dogs for that matter. I was so damn tired I didn’t even sleep with the boxer, my usual bedtime companion.

Waking up early was normal and meeting my best friend in the kitchen as the aroma of fresh brewed coffee filled the air made me feel just as comfortable as always. It was finally here…the day of the closing. Concerned that something would go wrong at the walk through and worried that there would be something that the Prez would be dissatisfied with, I tried to remain focused. I was exhausted, worn out...just down right weary. In fact, my friend told me I looked awful.. Actually, the words she may have said were “you look like crap.” But, hey, that’s why she’s my best friend…she always tells the truth!

It was nearly time for us to meet our Realtor for the walk-through. The CO (Certificate of Occupancy) had not yet been obtained as of the night before! It seems that one of the required sign-offs was delayed because of what, I asked our Realtor and our builder...the sanitation inspector's vacation?????

Connected Once Again

2011-11-27T09:53:00.000-05:00

We have "lift-off" Houston! I can honestly say that I AM A SURVIVOR! Our ISP came through for us on Friday morning, just as promised!! The Prez was as anxious for cable as I was for Internet. However, we had invited one of our daughters and the kids over for "Thanksgiving" dinner (what the heck...I love the holiday so much that why NOT celebrate it all over again!!!)

As the Prez monitored the deep frying of the bird, I set the table and scurried around the kitchen while watching the clock and looking out the window awaiting my three grand daughters arrival.

It was an awesome day with the girls with a few major exceptions...

to be continued

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T15:56:00.001-05:00

to Jeff (from Charter) who just called me to say that "the install will take place between 8 and 10 AM Friday!!!

That means that I no longer have to imagine Brian Willliams at 6:30!

Just one more trivial things to add to my extensive list of things to be thankful for...:)

...:) JP

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T17:12:00.001-05:00

Still no cable or internet, but I had to share this...even though I have a limited data plan on my cell.

Ann and Tom have come by several times as they are interested in building on the lot up and across the road from us. She called earlier today asking if they could come by and take pictures to share with friends and family. You know I said "absolutely."

They arrived and began their picture taking after we exchanged hugs. My sister had told me I didn't have to allow them in because I was in the midst of baking pies and the kitchen was a mess. No big deal...I told her...I don't mind.

Come to find out...Ann is a Minister and Tom? Well, Tom is a Bishop.

There's a lesson here: Always be nice to people. Treat them like you would like to be treated. You never know who they work for!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

...:) JP

Last of It

2011-11-13T06:02:00.001-05:00

Yesterday afternoon, as I picked up branches around the perimeter of the yard and the dogs watched (yes...watched!!), we spotted in the distance,a red and black truck backing up the road.

The Prez was home! Back from VA with the last load, mostly stuff from the garage, he will go back down the beginning of December to hunt. Only a few things have to be removed and the rest will remain in the trailer until we build another garage!

Oh, one more thing...still no internet/TV...:(. The company is still trying to reinstate it's existing customers from the recent power outage before it does installs.

There's a lesson here...good things come to those who wait AND you sure get a lot done without it.

...:) JP

Welcome to CT!

2011-11-07T05:30:00.001-05:00

Posting this from my cell since we are still awaiting internet. As you can imagine, we've been busy unacking and me, well....I'm arranging, entertaining, and baking cookies!

Just a glimpse of more to come...

It will be time to go out with the kids soon...yes, the Prez brought them up last week and they seem to love their new home!!

P. S. Bev, if you read this...your Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins were a big hit with me, our builder and the Prez!!

...:) JP

Ramblings

2011-10-19T07:06:00.001-04:00

Well, today is my last day to contact bloggerville until I reconnect at some point once situated in Connecticut. The Prez and I hit the road tomorrow.

Yesterday was a beautiful sunny day here at our home in the Hollow and we got a lot accomplished. I did take the time to walk the gravel road with Moon and Copper in the morning as well as sit out with them for my afternoon break. It couldn't have been a more perfect day! Oh, sure, occasionally my eyes would tear up with the thought of saying good~bye, but then my mind focused on what lies ahead, bringing a smile and drier eyes.

The Prez loaded the washer and dryer on the trailer along with a few of the "open me first" boxes and today, it's prepare the coolers, one with frozen, one with refrigerator items. He is using the dry ice method since we're looking at a time frame exceeding 24 hours. I will tell you another thing, if ever you move and have the need to pack strategically, contact the Prez. He got more stuff on that trailer than I imagined!

Today I'm going to see Mike, my friend of eight years, the man who cuts my hair, the one I've had many adventures with. He and his entire family welcomed me with open arms right after we met and have always been strong shoulders (if you know what I mean). I know I will cry. But I also know that we will stay in touch just as I plan on doing with Lisa, Joyce and Bill, Linda and Dale, Dorothy and Harwell, Lucy and of course, Buddy. Writing this and thinking of them brings tears to my eyes, but remembering each of their smiles and laughter eases the pain of saying good~bye.

I wrote this a few weeks ago...

Home in the Hollow

There's a Home in the Hollow at the base of a hill

Down in the Blue Ridge it's standin' there still

'Twas built long ago from logs hewed by hand

If they only knew then how long it would stand

The walls filled with memories over the years

Some filled with laughter and some filled with tears

It's been home to many who have come and gone

For those that have lived there, the memories live on

It began in a cabin two stories high

They planted their corn so it'd grow near by

While cattle grazed freely, they built them a still

It's busted up pieces still there on the hill

The Home in the Hollow gives you some rest

It's where you find peace and life at it's best

The house has been to many a treasured home

The Home in the Hollow has love to live on.

If you're passin' by out this way some day

Come find it for sure...it'll show you the way

To good country livin' and some hard work too

Surrounded by Nature that's all good for you.

Lost and Found

2011-10-16T06:40:00.118-04:00

Last Sunday as I clipped the remaining perennials down in the front garden bed and Moon and Copper were resting comfortably sprawled out in the grass, basking in the sun, safe and secure within the confines of the fence, a pick-up truck pulled in the driveway. Once I saw that the driver was a thin, older man (at least in his 60's like me), I headed towards the truck. Smiling he rolled down the window and said, "I'm not here for a reason. I'm just a little lost. Can you tell me where this road would come out/" He looked like a nice enough man and I noticed approaching the truck with caution, that there was a dog in the front seat. While I thought of that as a "good sign," I did intentionally have my 10" blade clippers in my left hand.

Getting face to face with the man, I now had a clear view of his "pup." The "pup" was rescued by he and his wife and was now 10 months old. "He's got Lab in him," he said with a broad grin. Me? I saw Pitbull first and foremost. Then I saw the large pronged choke chain around the "pup's" neck. I saw the solid, muscular black and white, about 70 lbs canine gaze at me, watching every move I made. Taking a step back, the man told me he was friendly and a "real love" as he patted him on the chest, saying "aren't ya, boy?"

We chatted for a while mostly about dogs and then he asked if he could get out to give the "pup" a drink at the front creek.

"Sure," I responded, ensuring that my clippers were right a my side as the dog approached to sniff my leg which now looked so small compared to the size of this "pup's" head!

Moon and Copper had come over to the gate on the creek side of the house. The man had walked the dog over to the creek with the "pup" for a drink, when suddenly Moon appeared from no where! Fur up, teeth barred, she headed straight for the Pit. "Moon, NO!" I commanded. Stopping short of the man and his dog just as his "pup's" growl became more intense, Moon barked and growled, as I watched him struggle to hold the dog.

Walking quickly to the gate, I called Moon and said, "In!" Reluctantly and slowly she came, looking over her shoulder with each step. My fifty pound Shepherd Husky, a stray who wandered in off the mountain almost eight years ago, was trying to protect me from a seventy pound Pit with a massive head and shoulders!

Mountain Moon

Once the man got his dog under control, he immediately put him in the truck as Moon and Copper watched carefully through the fence. No, it's not the first time Moon has "escaped" as my good friend Lisa will tell you! Moon has climbed the fence several times and even gone under water where it crosses the creek to be at my side. I guess now that she's been found, she never wants to be lost again!

Connected~Disconnected

2011-10-15T06:42:00.066-04:00

Knowing that our first trip is slated for next week gives me a wonderfully nervous feeling in the pit of my stomach as I listen to the Prez talk about his plan for "the move". Earlier in the week, he had the brake mechanism installed in that big red Dodge diesel of his and today he got to bring his new trailer home. We will begin loading the trailer over the weekend.

Well...that's what he said, anyway. After the Prez got the lights and brake connected, he said, "We'll start on Sunday." But then looking into each other's eyes, the small grins came across our faces and we started working on this...

The dressers and beds will be loaded over the weekend along with a few other larger items. The Prez just wanted to stack some of the small stuff to fill up the "nose." As you can see, we've been busy.

When we shopped for groceries last week, we intentionally planned out our meals for next week since we will not be bringing any foods requiring refrigeration on the first trip. The dogs will remain here under the watchful eye of our neighbor who will, as always feed and play with them in our absence. The closing is scheduled for Friday, the 21st however, we are meeting our Realtor at the house for a final walk~through earlier that afternoon!!

I've come to the conclusion that Moon and Copper know some thing's up as they keep seeing things getting boxed and then carried out to the garage. In fact, they've been what I call hugging my leg when I go outside with them. It's as if they are saying don't forget me. Good gravy! How could I do that???? They are not coming until the second trip however, because the Prez has to build the wooden part of the fence all around the front of the house. He'll do that on the first trip up.

Oh, one more thing, I'll be disconnected for a while because of no Internet service. That should be early next week. I'm a little concerned about that to tell you the truth because our builder told me last night that the cable/ISP up there may take up to seven weeks for an install!!! YIKES!!! It looks like I'll have to get a library card right away...:)

OOPS!

2011-10-14T07:04:00.000-04:00

I PACKED THE CAMERA!

CRAP!

What an adventure this is going to be!

DAMN! I've got to find it...

I couldn't wait to show the Prez what I got done while he was gone. When we talked Friday night, he said,"Hon, I hurt in places I never knew I had." Poor guy. It sounds like he'll really need his recliner...broken or not. And to make matters worse, he caught a cold!

OK...So I Lied

2011-10-07T11:00:00.000-04:00

I know I told you that I was taking a month off, but I just HAD to tell you what's been going on! The Prez is up in Connecticut busting his butt putting up fencing for Moon and Copper, even though we don't yet own the house. It was an arrangement he made with our builder. He even let the Prez put all my bunny rabbits in the garage!! How sweet was that? He's definitely going on the my "cookie list!"

One of our son in laws came over to give the Prez a hand yesterday and today so he's really made progress. They were able to complete 3 corners and about 300' of fencing in one day and are hoping to do the same today along with putting in the posts for all the wooden fencing that the Prez will build by hand.

Meanwhile, the garage door is on and looks great, according to the Prez. The cabinets are in, the interior paiting and trimwork has been comepted, the granite was installed this past Tuesday and the sinks "set." The Prez said the kitchen looks "awesome" although when I asked him to send me a picture or two, he said, "I can't the lens on my camera on my phone is so scratched up from being in my pocket, it just takes cloudy picutres." BUMMER!! But then he told me that I'd see it all soon enough.

He went shopping for appliances with our builder Tuesday and some were delivered and installed yesterday. The remaining are slated for today I think. The electrician has been working on installing lights, celiing fans, the transfer switch for the generator and the over the range microwave while the plumber is installing the dishwasher and all the faucets.

Our closing is tenatively scheduled for the 21st which will be perfect...that's two weeks from today!!!

Meanwhile, I've made a lot of progress here with packing. Today, I'm going to spray paint some wicker furniture...wish me luck.

Gosh, I miss you all...:)

Here and There

2011-09-30T06:09:00.001-04:00

Wrestling with the decision for a while now, I decided that I'm only doing posts until the end of the month which is today. Only two weeks left until the middle of October! I can hardly believe it myself as the month of September flew by.

Anyway, the reason for my "dropping out" for a while is because of all the things on our plate for the month of October. Hopefully, that should be enough time to wrap up things here and start things there. Before you know it, we'll be closing on the new house. In fact, the Prez is heading up in the next day or two, even though we haven't closed, to put the fence up for the dogs. Once he returns, we'll begin the moving process. We've planned what is going on the first trip and although we'll both drive up, we'll take separate cars. I will remain at the house in Connecticut and unpack, while the Prez returns to Virginia to get the next trip. He'll bring the dogs when he comes up the second time...YEAH!!!

By then, I'll have made the arrangements for the utilities, telephone and alarm company. If I play my cards right, I should be able to get the Mini and the Wrangler inspected and registered as well as get a new license and devote my evening to unpacking. Gosh, I haven't had to worry about those things for a long, long time! Just think of the great workout my mind will be getting! Did I tell you I pulled a muscle moving the wheel barrow with all those ~~damn~~ cute bunnies in it? There's a lesson here:
cement is heavy!!!

Anyway, I thought it only fitting to re~work my page entitled The Past: Home in the Hollow. So if you get a chance, take a look at it and let me know what you think. Your opinions matter very much. You all have a special place in my heart. So, to coin a phrase from one of my favorite cowboys

Happy trails to you
Until we meet again...

YEEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAAW!!

...:)JP

One More Shot

2011-09-29T06:19:00.000-04:00

It's was time to pack up the camera and accessories since I was nearly done packing the office. Something told me to just take "one more shot...just one more." Walking down the now empty hallway which once contained braided runners and walls filled with Warren Kimble prints, I passed by the table that our neighbor and friend, Buddy, made. Feeling a little sad, a little bad, and needing a little fun, I headed towards the mudroom, planning on going outside for some of that unconditional love wrapped in exuberance and I get from Moon and Copper. Well, that was the plan anyway.

However, placing my foot up on the boot bench to tie my boots, I couldn't help but look out he window in front of me. There it was. I found it. Nature had done it again...the perfect shot. At first I was so taken by it that all I did was stand in silence and watch. Walking quickly into the family room to go get the Prez, I motioned for him to come... and come quickly and quietly. Tiptoeing back into the mudroom and peering out the window, it was still there.

As I raised the camera and pressed it against the glass, I saw movement. It was beneath it and the surrounding Lamb's Ear that it was nestled in was wiggling a little. "Joe, something's moving," I said. "Look to the left of the front paw and then a little closer to it's tummy on the right. What is it?"

It was HER...the rabbit that's been avoiding Moon and Copper all year...nursing her little ones!

I guess I need not feel sad or bad after all when I take my fifteen bunnies back home to Connecticut, back where they came from. The Home in the Hollow is raising her own. And that, my friends, is only fitting.

I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately,

to front only the essential facts of life,

and see if I could not learn what it had to teach,

and not,

when I came to die,

discover

that I had not lived.

~Henry David Thoreau, 1854~

Another Goodwill Trip

2011-09-28T05:41:00.068-04:00

Fifteen boxes and three huge garbage bags of shoes, clothing and handbags went off to Goodwill Monday. Now for a second pass at the closet. I think I'll do that today. I figured if I got that much stuff out of there the first time, the second pass would really clean house, so to speak.

This is my half of the walk~in closet. That's only a small chunk of the empty hangers after donations. The two shelves that run along the top are pretty close to empty as well, as I worked really hard. Would somebody out there in bloggerville tell me that it looks like I've been working hard, because I am flippin' pooped!!!

Now here's the Prez' half. Do you see any progress whatsoever? Do you see bare shelves? Do you see empty hangers anywhere. The answer is a big fat NO! Why, you ask? Because his response when I told him "we're working on the closet today" was a simple statement. "There's no rush." However, I do know that he'll get to it. He knows that I like to bust his you know whats and he also tells me that I'm good at it...:) This is also from a man who, when we prepare for our annual trek to Aruba each Spring, packs the night before! So heck, to move to Connecticut, he'd probably be able to pack the morning we're leaving, now that I think about it.

Focusing On...

2011-09-27T05:55:00.001-04:00

the size of the pile to be taken to Goodwill and the number of boxes packed, I noticed movement from the corner of my eye. Oops! A quick time out is needed to take a picture of her I thought running into the house to get the camera.

Ah ha! Caught her in the act, nibbling away at the Morning Glories planted along the fence!

And then, I just had to zoom in...

Hollow History = Making Friends

2011-09-26T05:03:00.027-04:00

After pooping myself out this morning doing some more packing and helping the Prez load up a trailer load of stuff from the shed, barn and attic for a "dump run," I decided that this afternoon I would just flop. Off I went outside with Moon and Copper to just chill, until the three of us noticed a new double cab pick~up coming down the mountain ever so slowly.

Moon's ears went up and Copper's senses kicked in as they both ran towards the fence, letting the driver know that they were being watched. Rather than hearing a truck round the bend, I heard it come to a stop. Immediately thinking that they stopped to pick up a flyer from the Realtor, I remained seated in my comfortable chair, until I saw Moon and Copper go flying towards the gate with fur raised. It was then I heard a faint "Hello".

Walking over to the fence, the gentleman on the other side extended his hand and introduced himself. Clean cut and well groomed, he had the look of kindness combined with friendliness on his face. I noticed several other men in the truck looking in our direction.

Well, are you ready for this one? Larry used to live here! Yes, back in 1991, he owned this house...another piece of Home in the Hollow's history solved!! Having it for only a year, he sold it to Bill, furniture and all. Of course, when he lived here there was no addition. That was added on after Bill married and he and his wife were expecting twins.

And so, I invited he and his friends in for a tour. They were so kind to tell me that not only did the house give them a warm, welcome feeling, but also loved the way I tell a story. And wait, there's more. They are from Massachusetts...all of them...and are on their way to Tennessee. Isn't that just awesome? One of them is an actual guitar maker and together they form a Bluegrass Band! Go take a peek at their web site. Here's their link: Acoustic Blue

During the tour, he'd ask, "Does the old phone still work? And what about the cast iron cook stove? Do you still get water from the mountain springs?" Then something so sweet happened. As he told us he'd sold furniture and all, I said, "Follow me, handsome. I want to show you something," walking to the spare bedroom. "This was in the attic when we got here. Is it yours?"


Hollow History (1991)

Looking at me with the widest grin I think I've ever seen, he said, "Yes. It's mine."
"Would you like it back?"
"The truck is filled with our instruments and really don't have room for it," he replied smiling.
Can you believe that? So now I've not only stumbled upon some more of the history of the Home in the Hollow, but also found the real owner of this dresser!

We exchanged emails and lots of hugs and well wishes along with us inviting them for supper on their return trip before they got into their truck. Then he asked, "If you don't mind me asking, what are you selling the place for?" Once I told him, one of them walked down the driveway to pull a flyer form the box. Larry then said, "I'd love to buy the place back, live here again, if I could talk my wife into moving."

Remember I told you that I'm not good at good-byes but excel at hellos? Well, today proved it, once again!

P.S. Did you notice my new button on my sidebar? Snappy Di creator of The Blue Ridge Gal made it for me...:)