Let's Dance!

This has been a draft sitting in Blogger just... well, sitting. I'm currently working on something; so, I thought to just go ahead and publish this bit after inserting dates. Enjoy.

I plcked up writing again back in late April (2016) after a long hiatus. This piece was started May 9th (2016). I played with it a few times and then abandoned the effort. It is based on a dream I had of a dog who knew how to dance and how violence tore us apart. I heard music in my mind when I first started writing this. And, in my dream, I saw a dog and me dancing with pure joy.

Please keep in mind that this is just piddling writing (journaling) -- nothing is ever perfect when I write...

We met one day,
feet tangling
to know one another,
to tango, foxtrot.

{Let’s Dance.
Giving Glory to God, Hallelujah.
Let’s Dance!
Rejoicing in the life we have.}

The day came, life dealt a cruel blow
Separated the two of us.
Looked high and low,
Looking high and low,
For one another.

One kept searching,
the other bonded with another.

In accident, a day came
I found you.
And, we came together rejoicing!

{Let’s Dance}

I looked up and realized
sacrifices need to be made
giving up the one I looked for.

It’s only temporary;
God willing.

Both mourned and lived.
Duties performed.
Loving others
until the day and call came
reuniting us once more.

Taking time to grieve losses
Coming together when the other is ready
because life is meant for rejoicing….

{Let’s Dance}

I am a nosy observant person -- this is all part of being deaf and being constantly aware of my surroundings. Plus, I take joy seeing others puttering about taking care of the things they enjoy such as their animals (e.g. chickens) and gardens.

When we first moved here, I was extremely happy to see an older couple that often puttered about on their land behind us. They are “the gardeners” in my mind. I often wished I could see their goats and chickens; but, they are hidden from our view. It always thrills me to see a Billy Goat or two on the rare occasions they are let loose around their house.

This couple is always dressed in a long sleeved shirt and a wide brim hat… until recently. I noticed the lady out and about in her nighty and robe. I would like to think that I am the inspiration for that because I will often go outside with my lounge wear.

I used to worry about going outside in my loungewear (PJ pants and a t-shirt or a sweatsuit in the winter). But now, I just do not care. On the days when I am not feeling well, it is too much effort to change into street clothes and it takes a lot out of me to do this one tiny task. Instead, I will just put on a long-sleeved work shirt (over the t-shirt) and my snake proof boots to take care of my garden and cats. At least, the things I am passionate about will not get neglected.

It pleased and tickled me to see the gardener lady taking care of a few things she cares about in her nighty and robe. There is nothing to be ashamed of as long as you are decent and covered. I imagine she is taking care of her chickens. I even saw her once in the morning getting the burn pile started in her nighty and robe.

I just pray that she is not sick and if she is, she will get well soon. I know all too well how a body can get depressed when you cannot do anything and if you try too hard, you will crash and burn. If I continue to take care of the things I love, I will be okay (in the long run). I hope and pray she will be too and return to her normal self soon. And if she does not, that is okay too as long as she remains active like me.

By the way, I refuse to wear pajamas when I go out and about (e.g. shopping). If I cannot make the effort to get dressed in street clothes, then I am not well enough to go out and about. I refuse to look like the people of Walmart. After all, I still have some standards.

Today I Am...

    ::celebrating:: 51 years (young)

    ::watching:: the sun rise (while the cats explore

    ::lighting:: candles – the ordinary Yankee Candle kind

    ::determined:: to keep plugging away on the cross-stitch project

    ::eating:: Pizza (homemade gluten free) for dinner

    ::looking forward:: to attending Formula 1 Racing with Dan in Austin, Texas

What I've Been Doing Lately IV

It has been awhile since I last did a "What I've Been Doing Lately" post. I have procrastinated long enough and since I am feeling poorly, I thought I write up the latest update.

• Finshed the DIY Foldable Craft Table. I am pleased with the end result in spite of the terrible plans we used. I have already started using it by cutting up a brand new t-shirt to covert into canvas art. I need to do more soon and take pictures of the process.

• My oldest grand niece was in a major accident late in August pursuing a passion of hers. When I first heard the news, I cried and was so scared for her and the family. I cannot imagine what went through the Momma's heart. I cannot imagine what my grand niece went through when the accident occurred. By all reports, she (my grand niece) is recovering nicely even though she is going crazy not being able to be active. Her mother is keeping her distracted by fostering animals. First, it was a baby goat. Currently, it is a sweet dog. I think they are fostering animals until she can go back to actively pursuing her passion which will be for several months. Yes, she wants to return in spite of what occurred. She is one brave girl and honestly, I am thrilled she wants to return. I just don't want any more accidents to happen!


• We took a short vacation (9/17 - 918) to Padre Island. I took a few pictures and I will post them soon if they are good enough to post. We also went to Fredericksburg Trade Days (9/19) and the San Antonio Home and Garden Show (9/20) where I finally got a telescoping flag pole I have been wanting for several years. It was a nice long weekend and I think Dan was glad to return to work to get a vacation from a vacation. Ha!
• I discovered I lost a 30+ year old filling in one of my back molars back in August. I knew I was going to need a crown and went to see a dentist. While at the dentist, it was discovered that my wisdom tooth, over the years, cut into the tooth that lost the filling. As a result, it is impossible to put a crown onto the tooth. Due to the fact that the roots extend into the sinus cavity, I will need to see an oral surgeon to extract the teeth. Speaking of which, this is probably why I kept having recurring pain in my lower sinus cavities. Anyway, I have yet to schedule an appointment. They are not bothering me at the moment; but, I know it will need to be taken care of in the future. I am just scared to death of the process.


• We took a long weekend (9/25 - 9/27) and helped with my folk's estate sale. Two of my brothers and their wives were there. One of them did the vast majority of the work and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. All in all, it was a successful sale (and weekend). The house was officially put on the market this past Tuesday (10/6).


• I am still working on the UFO (Unfinished Object) Cross Stitch project. I am so thrilled that I am on the final leg – the tedious back stitching. I was hoping to be done with it by my birthday – October 13. But, I think it will be finished later than I planned. {You can see the progress via past "What I've been Doing Lately" posts.}

What I've Been Doing Lately III

• Abby Gail has regained her appetite and is now a little piggy. She is slowly gaining back her weight. I have been weighing her on Sunday mornings and she is now approximately 6.7 pounds. She is keeping me busy.
• Dan’s Mom came to town to visit for a week late in July. We did the usual things and took her to see a few sights. We dragged her along window shopping for a small travel camper, did some “junkin’ (antique shopping) in New Braunfels and stopped by the oldest Texas bakery, went to the Riverwalk, had dinner, and took a ride on a tour boat and did some more junkin’ in a nearby town. We also had some lazy days. I think she enjoyed herself and I know she wants to come back soon.

• I have been going to garage sales once again. I just love picking up things I know I will use such as cheap mason jars in excellent condition (FYI: I never reuse the lids). I also like traveling around and getting to know our little town which is not as small as I thought. The population is just over 1100; but, the spread (of land) is quite large.

  I found the above mirror tiles. One of the packages only had five tiles and I asked that the price be $2.50 (instead of $3.00) and she agreed. I picked up the two packages for $5.50. Yes, I have plans for them! I have to resort to making something because I could not find anything out there (to purchase). It is going to be a challenge to create and I pray that I will not end up hurting myself in the process. I also pray that Dan will not hurt himself too as he will be helping me make a frame.


• The entryway is completed. We just need to hang up hooks. I am thinking of using some old doorknobs I hung onto for eons.
• I turned some old drawers into shelves. We finally hung the drawers along with some shelving for the cats in my studio. I think Abby will be happy that she can get up high on occasion now. I will be posting pictures soon.


{Who is that shameless hussy slaving away on the dresser?

Shot on June 28, 2015 by Dan}

• The DIY dresser is almost finished! It just needs one knob (pull) fixed.


• On July 19, we made Raspberry Peach jam! It is extremely delicious. Dan thinks the taste is similar to strawberry jam. Now, the question is: Was it worth it? You have to see this picture to understand why I am questioning my need to make jams and pickles. I think it is worth the effort in spite of the mess it made. I am seriously thinking about investing in a taller pot and/or a splatter shield. SMH (Shaking My Head}.

• I started making a folding craft table. The above picture shows the legs. Everything is stained and the pieces are ready to be put together. We had to fine tune the legs as the plans we used stunk to high heaven (was full of errors).


"The Castle" designed by Teresa Wentzler; Unfinished, Approximately 3/4 done!

• I am still working on the UFO (Unfinished Object) cross stitch project. ‘Nuff said. By the way, you can see the progress by referring back to pictures in my previous “What I’ve Been Doing Lately” posts.

What I've Been Doing Lately II

It seems like not much occurred since I last blogged. I have more or less ditched facebook and I am only responding to notifications and messages through the social media. About all I do these days online is check emails and catch up on blogs I read (via feedly). I have shared giveaways notices whenever I am required to do so to get an extra entry myself. And, I still tweet giveaways when I remember to do so.

I may start popping on facebook in August to check up on family and friends statuses/pictures. But, I will not be as active on facebook like I used to be.

Abby Gail on a Bag Containing Sample Fabrics; March 25, 2015

• I dealt with Abby Gail being sick. She continued to be sickly and it was tough watching her lose weight. She just would not eat – not even her favorite treats or wet cat food. She was extremely needy and often snoozed on me.

  I worried about her constantly as she lost a little over two pounds which is a lot for a cat. {FYI: She had a bacterial AND yeast infection in her ears.} We took her in for a scheduled checkup on the 25th of June. At that time, she was on the mend; but, she still struggled with appetite and feeling sickly. She still had a minor yeast infection in her left ear; so, we continued treatment in that ear for another two weeks.

  During the whole time she was sick, she dropped from 8.5/9 pounds to 6.2 pounds. She was so dang skinny – I could feel the rib bones whenever I petted her which bothered me to no end. Do not get me wrong, I do not like fat cats either. I just want healthy content cats.

  I was so happy and relieved one morning (around July 8th) to see her eat her entire meal. Before, she would only barely eat and leave the rest (to go to waste). Her happy go lucky attitude slowly returned. I had almost forgotten what it was like to have a holy terror around this house. It was difficult for this old lady to deal with an energetic mischievous cat once again. However, I have adjusted and am absolutely thrilled to have the old Abby Gail back.



Inspiration for our Entryway from This Old House Magazine (May 2015 issue).

Shot on June 25, 2015

• Dan started working on the "entryway" with my help in deciding on the number of "panels" (we went with five), the depth of the tiny shelf, etc., and etc. I like how this idea turns a plain wall into a usable focal point at the entrance. It also helps that it is our style (Craftsman/Mission). We do not have a hall closet or any usable space to "dump" stuff especially for guests. So, this works. It is looking rather nice at the moment!

  By the way, we will be doing something similar in our Master bathroom in the distant future.



Found at a Garage Sale. June 27, 2015

{We started removing the handles when I remembered to snap a “before” picture.}

• I have been looking for a cheap dresser to “up-cycle” and throw into our master closet for extra storage since we first moved here over two years ago. I finally found one with a mirror at a garage sale recently for thirty dollars and was absolutely thrilled. It is a nice solid piece of furniture which pleased me to no end.

  The dresser has been sanded down and is now in the process of being painted. It will be given several coats of poly and then thrown into the master closet for storage.

  As for the mirror, it will be repurposed. I plan to sand down the frame and then stain it in the near future as the wood is still in excellent condition. It will be hung over my regular dresser in our master bedroom.



Unusual Guests. Shot on July 4, 2015

{Note: I shot a lot more pictures. This was the first one I opened processed for this post. I will go through the rest and may do a "Fiend Friday" post in the near future.}

• We had some unusual guests stay in one of our Crepe Myrtle trees not too long ago. What were they? Bats! There were four of them altogether. Dan was the one who discovered them (on July 4th) while we were outside working. Both of us were extremely surprised that they chose this particular spot. We did not bother them nor they us. They left at dusk and never returned.

  I am not sure why they had to take emergency shelter; but, something caused them to do so. The only thing we could think of was the destruction of their old habitat as they looked healthy (via pictures on camera).

  Anyway, I had been thinking about buying a bat house. Due to this recent event, I decided to purchase one and we will be putting it up in the near future. At least, if any bats need a temporary resting spot, they will be safe from the wind (which was gusting the day they stayed) and be away from the path humanity (we) take.

  Bats are great for getting rid of mosquitoes and other bugs around here and it pleases me to know that bats fly around here even if they are just passing through.



"The Castle" designed by Teresa Wentzler; Unfinished; Almost 3/4 done

shot on July 13, 2015

• I am still working on the UFO (Unfinished Object) cross stitch project I mentioned the last time I blogged. {You can see a picture of the top half at the previous post.} It is slow going and extremely tedious due to the fact that there are a kijillion colors to deal with. But, I am pleased with the progress.

What I've Been Doing Lately

{Abby Gail Sound Asleep on My Office Chair; June 12, 2015; shot with phone camera}

{Note: She twitched herself awake soon after I took the picture and looked at me with utter betrayal. She made me laugh!}

Lest you think I’ve been lazy like Abby Gail above, let me tell you what I have been doing (besides the usual every day chores):

• I went camping, relaxing and tubing.

  It was a wonderful time. I was extremely pleased to see that the younger kids LOVED to come over to our site. They are so cute and adorable. I am sorry to say that I have not taken many pictures of people - only one shot out of many were of people. Maybe next time.

• I have been dealing with needy sick cat. When we returned from camping, I noticed Abby Gail's third eyelids was constantly showing itself. I also noticed that she seemed lethargic. So, I dumped her at the vet early one morning (so that they could see her between appointments as they were all filled up). Much to my shock, it turned out that she had a severe ear infection. I never dreamed she had ear problems. I suspected stomach trouble or a broken tooth. But, this diagnosis was a surprise to me.

  She was not herself for about a week and then gradually returned to normal. We are still giving her ear drops (medicine) and her last dosage will be on June 24th and she will return to the vet for a checkup on the 26th.



{Shot on May 6, 2015 with phone camera}

• Making pickles and relish. We had a bumper crop of pickling cucumbers. Yes, from our own garden. We first made some pickles. And then, with the second wave of pickling cucumbers, we made some relish. I am now wanting to make jams and jellies. I will use grocery produce (e.g. raspberries and peaches) as we do not have them growing on our land. Yet. I should plant a peach tree, should I not? And, try again with apple trees.
• Since I purchased a new camera, I discovered I needed to get new software. I had to “upgrade” Photoshop Elements. I was four versions behind. I hated being forced to upgrade; but, I had no choice.

  The difference between the two versions is making it very difficult for me to navigate. As a result, I am feeling reluctant to process pictures. But, I will get there someday. Now you know why I have not been blogging of late.

  I am going to need to do a phone camera dump soon. So, this will give me an incentive to get going learning my way around the new software. By the way, the picture of Abby Gail above is my first phone picture I have processed with the new software. And, I need to get going and process the ones I took at Garner (camping) with my new camera.



{"The Castle" designed by Teresa Wentzler; Unfinished; About Halfway Done;
shot with phone camera}

• I picked up my oldest WIP (Work in Progress) and UFO (Unfinished Object) and started Cross Stitching again. I was working on this before we got married in 1994! I put this aside to make things for other people, return to and finished college, and dive into quilting.

• Dealing with resurgence of chronic illnesses -- mainly migraines and stomach troubles -- which returned before I went camping. I seem to be on the upswing at the moment.
• Reorganizing files and folders on my hard drives (both local and portables) as it has gotten messy throughout the years.

  What got me started on this project? A portable hard drive crashed. Thank goodness I am one of those anal people that backup to two or more portable hard drives because all that data would have been lost. Note: I do not keep ALL data on my local hard drive (personal computer). I keep them on two or more portable hard drives.

  And yes, I immediately purchased a new portable hard drive. Let me tell you, technology has come a long ways since the last one I purchased. This one can hold more data (like I need that), is smaller, and cost about the same as my old one. I was astounded; and yet, I should not have been surprised.

• Attempting to restart scanning pictures, slides and negatives from my folk's house (and more). I discovered that since I got my new laptop, the driver for the scanner no longer works properly. Dan worked on it for over a day and could not get it to work the way it should. We suspected that the new Windows OS (Operating System) was interfering with the old driver. So, the solution was to get a new scanner. The other one was purchased in 2009 which makes it OLD by today's standards. It is my goal to get this project done by the end of this year. We shall see how that goes!

Did I ever mention how I despise technology? No? Well, I do!

You purchase a new camera? You may not be able to use old somewhat obsolete software due to newer format(s). So, you are forced to purchase upgrades or new software. You purchased a new computer? The old softwares or drivers for devices like scanners and printers may no longer work with the newer OS (Operating System). If you are lucky, you may be able to download a new driver for the old device. But, that situation did not exist for our old scanner. And, don't get me started with VHS, DVD and Blu-Ray! Yes, I think it is a conspiracy of companies to do all this to make a person part with his or her money. Yes, I'm grumbling. I am a cheapskate. Ha! :-)

On Meatloaf (and Making it Gluten Free)

I found a recipe for individual meat loaf that I absolutely love. It is much better than the one I made often in the past before I went gluten free. Making meatloaf, especially gluten free, should not be complicated.

This recipe makes two full meals for the two of us leaving me with two leftovers for lunches. I make eight individual loaves with 1/2 the sauce recipe and bake four with sauce freezing the other four (without sauce) for the future. I will make 1/2 the sauce when I thaw and bake them.

Note: I do NOT use special baking pans to make meatloaf and have not for years. Ever since I watched a Good Eats episode on meatloaf, I shape and place them onto a baking sheet or casserole dish. This makes life so much easier! For easy cleanup, I will use aluminum foil. The special pans, which were a pain-in-you-know-what, are long gone.

Here is a partial ingredient list with tips and details. (Please go to the original source for the complete list of ingredients and baking instructions}:

• 2 pounds of lean ground beef

  I used ground chuck which was 25% off at HEB. I ended up buying another 2 pounds which I divided up and placed into freezer for future meals that calls for ground beef.

• 1/2 cup fine bread crumbs

  I used 4 C Crumbs: Gluten Free: Plain instead. I found this at Walmart.

• 1/4 ketchup

  I used Hunts 100% Natural brand. This is gluten free (with a chance of cross-contamination). A family I know (via a sister-in-law) with a child that must be gluten free uses this brand and apparently uses it often. This is also HFCS free which is critical for me too.

• 1 TBSP Worcestershire sauce

  I used Lea and Perrins brand which I know is gluten free. I get a small bottle at HEB.

• The sauce calls for 1/2 cup brown sugar. I do not use a full 1/2 cup as it can be very sweet. I use between 1/4 to 1/3 cup.

This is a versatile recipe. You can add grated carrots, minced or grated garlic among other ingredients (including spices) to the meat to make a healthier version.

Personal Tips:

• Do not over mix. That is a tip I learned a long time ago watching Good Eats and trust me, it is much better to not over mix the meat.
• Do not overcook. Use a meat thermometer to keep track of the internal temperature. If you overcook, you will end up with a dry meatloaf which is not very appetizing. At least, It is not appetizing for us.

January 2015 Recap

My monthly recaps are going to change. The only thing that will remain the same will be books I have read. The savings challenge I was doing is now static with $110 a week (every Monday). Projects will still be highlighted if any was worked on and/or completed; but, not as important. I am just going to highlight certain things I think were important and or memorable to me. I may also may make "announcements" for family and friends.

• Books Finishes
  • #29: The Travelers: Present in the Past by Emily Schmidt.

    This book was on an extreme sale (75%) with free shipping and the story line, which used a couple of old quilts, intrigued me. So, I purchased it for dirt cheap. This is geared towards young readers; but, it is also a quick enjoyable read for older readers and adults.

    A young girl, Nona, is the ninth generation of travelers – those that can travel in time. She came into her abilities at a critical time and had to flee and hide in the past. A boy, who was held hostage to his abilities, crashed landed in the past where Nona was hiding. Nona manages to help anchor Henry and teach him what limited knowledge she about traveling. Winnie, a relative in the past she was staying (hiding out) with, is coming into her own traveling abilities. Nona ended up having to flee from some bad Travelers and both Henry and Emily hung onto and traveled with her.

    The one thing I really liked, besides the time traveling aspect, is the historical perspective of the times Nona got “stuck” in the past. Emily Schmidt was able to blend everything extremely well. I am biased towards fantasy books anyway. :-)

    The one thing I disliked is the abrupt ending forcing you to wait for a second book if (and that is a big IF), one gets published. I have my doubts.

• Company

  Two of my nephews and a niece-in-law used our house as a hotel to attend the first ever PAX held in San Antonio called PAX South. By all appearances, they seemed to have enjoyed themselves. And, I am not going to lie; they were the best guests anybody could expect! They were my kind of guests – they were too busy attending and having fun at the convention to visit much. They are more than welcome to use our house again as a hotel to attend the next convention or just go sightseeing.

  I honestly do not mind family and close friends crash landing at the house just to go sightseeing nearby areas including San Antonio or attend events and/or conventions. (In fact, these kinds of guests are less stressful for me – just do what you want to do and let me do my own thing.) I don't even mind them coming to escape their own places and visit with us. I am more than happy to provide beds and a bathroom along with eats and drinks as long as they let me know ahead of time what they prefer as my household is mostly gluten free and mighty boring to most folks. If they need breakfast, lunch and dinner, they need to let us know that to as we tend to wing ours on the weekends.

  These kids (yes, they are kids to me even though they are adults) did not seem to want eats and drinks from our house. Even though I was worried about them going hungry, they seemed to do just fine on their own. By the way, they never put in a request for eats and drinks when I asked them to when they first asked to stay here. I should not have worried about being good hosts; but, I did worry. I have to much of my Mother in me concerning this fact. I want people to be happy and content staying here in spite of my inability to socialize sometimes due to deafness. Dan more than filled in this part of being a host for me which relieved me immensely.

• Announcement (to Family and Close Friends)

  It is my hope to have Murphy beds (a queen and a twin) installed in the official guest room by the end of February along with my room be mostly finished. When those beds are installed, I will send word to family and friends that our “hotel” is officially open even though the guest room and bath will be a work in progress! We will have the Murphy beds along with a queen size camp cot (a stable air mattress and very comfortable) and a twin sized (slightly smaller than a twin) sleeper sofa bed for people to crash on.

  Like most hotels, a fridge, freezer and microwave are available. Unlike most hotels, we also have a stovetop, an oven and a Keurig. And, we have cookware and dishes. However, the location is not exactly ideal as it is approximately forty minutes from downtown San Antonio. But, if any of my family and close friends needs cheap, this place is a cheap (free) hotel. Just don't expect this place to be like a hotel though -- decorated and pristine. It is a house that is lived in with constant work being done to it.

  Also, be aware that we have cats if you are allergic to them. My nephews are allergic and yet, they seemed to have done just fine with their allergy meds. I do try to keep allergens down on account of Dan being allergic too. Just grab and run. Maybe that is what we should call our place, "Just grab and run". Ha! :-)

  As long as one does not have high expectations of me as a host and puts in their requests ahead of time, I think we all will get along just fine.

Mother Made Me Cry Today...

Mother made me cry today straight from the grave.

I unpacked a box with my name on it that came from the folk’s house. I found some wooden roses I had given to her when I graduated from college. She had taped a card with a kitty and ribbon on the front and added her own decorative ribbon. I thought it was cute and had always assumed she used the card to complement the roses.

I felt a lump inside the card. So, I untaped the card and found the original ribbons I used which were my school colors along with a note inside written by my mother.

You see, Mother was not the most expressive person.

Lee Ann gave me these roses at the graduation at S.H.S.U. on May 13,2006. We were all so proud and happy for her and had a great party at the lake.

And today, she managed to make me cry straight from the grave.

I thank you Mother for leaving a note with the roses. I knew Daddy was proud of me. It did my heart good today to know that you were also proud of me.

Note: I found the roses and note on January 14, 2015 and wrote in my journal the same day. The first sentence (above the first picture) is unedited. But the rest of the entry is edited and I added pictures to turn it into this blog post.

December Recap

Note: I just discovered that my weeks in Savings were off since May. Ugh! Why didn’t anyone tell me that! It is now correct beginning this month; but, I am NOT going back to previous months to correct those! Ha! Also, I will continue to save $100+ a week for the year 2015.

• Savings

  	Previous Balance	2344.00
  Week 44 (12/01)	+98.00	2442.00
  Week 45 (12/8)	+100.00	2542.00
  Week 46 (12/15)	+102.00	2644.00
  Week 52 (12/21)	+104.00	2748.00
  Week 53 (12/29)	+104.00	2852.00

  
  

• Book Finishes I have not read much in the way of books this month. I spent it mostly working around the house or watching silly sappy Christmas movies on TV.
  • #28: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum.

    This book is the first book part of a series (14 total) called The Wizard of Oz. I have always wanted to read them even as a child; but, I never did. I saw two books being sold at Barnes and Nobles at discount prices and could not resist. One of them held the first five novels and the other contained novels six through ten.

    This book was cute and interesting and a very quick read which is what I wanted and needed. There were notable differences between the classic movie and the book that I found fascinating. I am so glad I finally got a chance to read this book and plan on reading the others in the series.

• Projects
  • My Room

    Slow and steady wins the race. The fabric built-in units were more or less completed on the last day of December! Hurray! All that is left is the making of the shelves.

  • Laundry Room

    This endeavor was also completed on the last day of December! It is an AWESOME transformation and I am one happy camper.

• Other
  • Christmas

    We spent a little time with one of my brother’s family over the holiday and had a very lovely time. The rest of the holiday/vacation was spent at our house working around the house and whatnot.

  • Staycation

    We did take one day after Christmas to do a “staycation”. We went to the San Marcos outlet malls {Premium and (Tanger) where I restocked my Yankee Candle supply, Bath and Body works soaps, and purchased me some lovely overalls by Dickies.

    We also went to Dick’s Classic garage car museum. This was a spur of the moment thing we did. All cars were in the 50s or older. My advice would be to skip the cost of the museum unless you are into extremely old classics, history, and whatnot. It was not worth it to us as we are more interested in cars from the 60s. However, we did have a good time gazing at old cars older than us!

    We also stopped by a couple of antique stores in New Braunfels. I just googled antique stores and picked two that came up in the search engine. Both stores were on the same street and both were fabulous shops! I was thrilled that we hit stores that I particularly like which are a combination of junk and antiques.

    Dan found some 1966 license plates for his Ford Mustang and I found a couple of yardsticks and a cool odd looking metal curved ruler. I did not know what it was used for; but, I liked it so much that I had to have it. Ha! In my research upon arriving home, I discovered that it is used by designers, tailors, dress makers and pattern makers. How cool is that?!?! And, perfect as “art” for my sewing room. I also discovered that I got it about half the cost of a new one. It pleased me to know that my instinct for bargains is still on the mark.

More Five Minutes

I am feeling sad and melancholic. I thought I would share a few more Five Minutes stuff I have written. Within most of these five minute writings, I included prompts and notes as it is my usual habit. And, some five minutes were used to save thoughts (quotes) that came to me in a spur of the moment. And, as always, please do not judge as these were five minute journal writings.

The following was written on August 22, 2014.

“Evil comes from within.”
(~Moi)

{I was reading Wicked by Gregory Maguire when two main characters, Elphaba and Galinda, was having a discussion about evil. Galinda asked “where is evil located?” As soon as I read this, the above thought (quote) crossed my mind.}

Evil is simply the absence of good just like darkness is simply the absence of light. You have to nurture light in order to keep the darkness at bay. Evil flourishes if one denies(, ignores, or rejects) goodness.

I believe that those who commits atrocities desire or lust after evil be it rape, incest, murder, etc., and etc. Some have hidden behind religions to give legitimacy to their evil ways. The world has gone mad and the good people allowed it to flourish in the name of political correctness. It is so sad.

The below was writing on August 26, 2014.

Note: To read more about Doctor Who, go here.

[inside a dilapidated house]

Kathy Nightingale: What did you come here for anyway?
Sally Sparrow: I love old things. They make me feel sad.
Kathy Nightingale: What's good about sad?
Sally Sparrow: It's happy for deep people.

One of my favorite episodes of Doctor Who TV series is “Blink”. I could watch this episode over and over again. “Beware the weeping angels.” In fact, I have not yet deleted this episode from the DVR. There are so many quotes that have become famous; but, the above is by far my favorite and not quite so famous.

I think the reason is due to the fact that I can identify with what Sally said. Yes, old things make me feel sad. I often wonder about the people, the history, etc., and etc. behind old things. At the same time, it makes me happy to roam among them.

I would rather go to a junk (antique) shop than to a restaurant for dinner. I would rather attend a genuine flea market over getting a bouquet of roses (cut flowers). I would rather go to garage sales in hopes of landing a cool old item than receive diamonds. I would rather receive small meaningful gifts over expensive thoughtless items. This is who I am. This is the way to my heart.

{Yes, I am weird. I am not your typical woman.)

The following is a brief incomplete poetry (ditty) I wrote on September 2, 2014.

Every day is cloudy.

Every day I pray for rain.

Every day laughs in my face.

Every day I seek to remain sane.

Do not ask me why I wrote this. For the life of me, I cannot remember the details and sad to say, I did not include any prompts or notes like I did with most of my other five minute writings.

The following was written on September 3, 2014.

“Rain causes lethargic spiders to dance.”
~Moi

This thought came to me while watching my Garden Spider in the rain. She drank some of the water and then dropped straight down a ways. She was very active –all over her web and beyond. I noticed this same behavior among other garden spiders nearby. (There are three others beside Charlotte, the one I am observing.) This was the first time it rained in over six weeks and it was not enough to soak the earth.

The below was written on September 11, 2014.

“The written word is so inaccurate. I meant what you said pretty much.”
~written to me by someone I know.

Who is behind the written word? Why is it inaccurate? Is it because you did not take the time to write what you really meant? Or, were you not careful enough with your grammar? Why do people assume that others will understand what you said with so few (careless) written words? We cannot read your mind!

Words, be it written or verbal, are powerful whether one realizes it or not. If one cannot be responsible and sensitive enough to take the time to write what he/she really thinks (means), then please, please do not bother to try.

I am now going off on a tangent that is related and yet not related to what I wrote above. I think I am going into a full on rant. And, thank God, no one can stop me because this is My. Personal. Space.

Why do people wish to pass the blame?

Why do people shrug off their careless words?

Why do people refuse to acknowledge or validate others for their own thoughts and feelings?

Why are people NOT listening? And, taking other people seriously?

I could go on and on with the questions that have no absolute answers.

Could it be people truly just do not care?

Could it be people are so self-centered that they cannot see others are in pain?

I think, maybe, just maybe, the true answer is:

No one wants to acknowledge the dragons in the room.

Note: “Here be Dragons” is a famous phrase often used on maps. It basically means dangerous or unexplored territories. The “dragons in the room” is my reference to topics no one wants to talk about and/or considers embarrassing or dangerous (either to them or others).

Word Games {in Journaling}

Sometimes I do silly things when I try to get myself to write.

For example, on this day (December 19), all I could write was the word “blank” because I was feeling blank. And, I sat there for a while. I then started playing with that one word changing, removing or adding a letter. I then started writing with a 1-3-5 syllable sentence scheme. I think you will understand once you see it below. And no, this is NOT poetry. It’s just a game I created on the spur of the moment to write some utter nonsense and get my creative juices flowing.

Now please, do not judge me. This is just part of my writing (or journal if you prefer). It’s not meant to be perfect and there will be spelling and grammar mistakes (intentional or not). I do a little editing here and there; but, for the most part, it is an unedited raw form.

I was just having some fun. And, I think I succeeded. At least, I wrote something and had fun at the same time. And, honestly, I thought some of you might enjoy reading this. It first starts out a little serious and structured and then becomes downright silly. There is even one place where it should be two sentences; but, I didn't include a period. So, it is a conundrum. What am I really saying? Also, you might actually be surprised or shocked by the ending.

Blank

is this sheet,

the opposite of

Black.

Not a mark

on which I feel the

lack.

Emptiness,

forever my friend,

ack!

Why is this?

Constantly I must

ask.

In my soul

darkness comes like an

asp.

Sorrow rolls,

Agony-Anguish,

Gasp.

Why must I

endure and fail to

Grasp.

it’s futile.

From within my soul

rasp.

I’ve become

unseen and actions

rash.

I must stop

the disappearing

trash

the Silence.

My presence becomes

brash.

Visible

became I without

bras.

Ha!

Feline Friday: Gopher Hunting - Part III

As soon as I took this last picture of Gracie in my last Feline Friday's post, Abby Gail took over the hunting and I put my camera down. I had taken many pictures of her gopher hunting - It was the same ol’ same ol’ stuff.

At one point, Dan (and I) decided to bury the hole since there was too much activity by the gopher. We then went about our business and I kept an eye on Abby. She soon went back to that spot and started acting like a terrier digging uncovering the hole. There is not much I/we can do except let her be a cat.

Unphotographable Moments #10

This is a picture I did not take of Abby Gail (flying backwards) spread eagle in the air about three feet of the ground with a tiny creature simultaneously appearing inches away from its hole in the ground.

~ November 8, 2014 ~

When I witnessed this, I immediately screamed and panicked. After Abby Gail landed, her whole being screamed “what do I do with it now?” She cautiously approached the tiny creature, bopped the gopher on the head and immediately hopped backwards because the gopher snapped back.

By this time, Dan had reached Abby and grabbed her leash. He held Abby in check and examined the gopher from a short distance. He informed me (via sign language) that the gopher had bloody gashes on his (or her) hind leg. He also told me to grab my camera.

I was able to quickly snap a few pictures in spite of my concern and nervousness. It looked like the gopher was not seriously harmed. Dan eventually guided it back to its hole that it came out of with a long piece of wood. At first, the gopher fought back; but, once he (she) reached the hole from whence it came, it perked up and scampered back into the ground. The gopher should survive as long as his (her) wounds doesn’t get infected.

When Dan saw the pictures I took (which are shown below), he said they were awesome. That made me feel good because most of the time, I feel like I am shooting and getting squat. I have to say that when I opened up the pictures to view, I thought they were rather good too. This is a rare thing for me to feel these days about my pictures.

{To see a larger image, go here.}

{To see a larger image, go here.}

I know we probably should have killed the gopher; but, I have such a tender heart and do not believe in killing critters unnecessarily even if they are a nuisance in the landscape. I do see cats -- strays, ferals, and the ones belonging to Gardener – hunting off our land from time to time. I have to confess that I secretly hope they find and kill a gopher or two. After all, some of these cats eat only things they are able to catch.

Anyway, Abby was so pleased with herself. She was also so exhausted that she slept like the dead for hours once we went back indoors.

November Recap

• Savings

  	Previous Balance	1972.00
  Week 40 (11/03)	+90.00	2062.00
  Week 41 (11/10)	+92.00	2154.00
  Week 42 (11/17)	+94.00	2248.00
  Week 43 (11/24)	+96.00	2344.00

  
  

• Book Finishes
  • #22: The Lion, The Witch an the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis.

    This book is part of a series of books called The Chronicles of Narnia. And, I currently have an unabridged version of all seven books in one volume and the books are presented in the author’s preferred reading order.

    I read this particular book in childhood and loved reading it again. It is fiction. It is fantasy. It is written for children; but, adults would enjoy reading it too. None of the storylines and/or characters is supposed to ring true (to Christianity). The similarities are awesome. But, they are just biblical allusions not strong allegories. I wish people would stick to what it is: fiction and fantasy. But no, they have to nitpick details and whatnot, and by doing so, they destroy a beautiful story for themselves. This book makes for an excellent read for both children and adults.

  • #23: Dark Witch by Nora Roberts.
  • #24: Shadow Spell by Nora Roberts.
  • #25: Blood Magick by Nora Roberts.

    These books are all romantic fantasies. It deals with subject matter that may be offensive to some (witches and magic); but, I treat it for what it is, fantasy and fiction. It is not real. And, it is not supposed to be treated as such. As long as one remains grounded in their personal beliefs, one will not be drawn astray by reading books like these.

    Anyway, I have read a few of Nora Roberts’ books eons ago. Nora Roberts has a way of writing that just draws you into the story, the landscapes, the characters and more. You can get lost in her books. I must confess that I just skimmed over the sex scenes in these books. She has a way of being very graphic without being overly pornographic. However, I avoid them because why get your heart and mind in a tangle wishing for things you do not have? It is the storylines and the characters that I am more interested in.

    Each book concentrates on one character (or two) and usually, the main characters of each book all have a connection to one another. But, I have to say that this series is just a retread of many of her prior books and I have to wonder why the rip-off? Is she losing her ground? Running out of ideas? Plot lines? My initial thought is that these were her earlier writings that did not make print and is now only being printed in spite of some issues. Who knows what the real reason is; but, I think it might have been a mistake to get these books to print because they will drive some of her hardcore fans away.

    My favorite series by Nora Roberts is the Key trilogy. I also loved her Born In trilogy. Even after reading these latest books, The Key trilogy is still my favorite series. And, I am saddened that some of the characters seemed to be ripped off from her earlier books I have read. Nonetheless, these are still good reads; and at times, the characters made me laugh. At the very least, the books are quick reads when in need of a quick read!

  • #26: The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis.

    This book is part of a series of books called The Chronicles of Narnia. And, I currently have an unabridged version of all seven books in one volume and the books are presented in the author’s preferred reading order.

    I believe this is the first time I have read this book and I enjoyed it immensely. It follows two desperate runaways. It is an excellent read for both kids and adults alike except for those who like to nitpick everything including the fact the storyline touches upon slavery (which is still a reality in many countries today) and possibly racist overtones. Yes, I have read a few reviews on this book. Face it, if I entered a country like Japan, China, or any one country in the Middle East, I would stand out in both skin color, how I dress and even in cultural nuances. How can I NOT notice (and feel) the difference? It is a fact of life that these things exist. We are so fortunate to live in a melting pot that differences are less noticeable. Anyway, I don’t believe the book is racist. However, many consider it to be which I will never understand.

  • #27: A Street Cat Named Bob by James Bowen.

    I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is a better book than Jackson Galaxy’s memoire which does not explain how his cat saved his life nor does it talk about the cat much. It was all about him (the author).

    A Street Cat Named Bob is a much better book and it was not just about the author; but, the cat too. Street cats can save your life. I should know. My first cat came off the streets. I will never ever forget our first meeting after I prayed to God for a friend. And, that cat chose to stay with us in spite of the fact there were four of us (kids).

    Anyway, Bob is a very likeable and sociable cat and the author was more or less homeless and struggling to come off addiction. It is honest and not forced even though it may not be well written. It is straight from the heart unlike Galaxy’s memoire which I struggled to read through. And oh, Bob (the cat) doesn’t die! There is a sequel which is a continuing story of these two and I have it on my wish list.

• Projects
  • My Room

    Slow and steady wins the race. The fabric built-in units are coming along fabulously! I can now finally see the end in sight.

  • Laundry Room

    I cannot remember why we started the laundry room. I do know that we were at a standstill and Dan was bored. So, we started ripping out the shelving to paint the laundry room. I was amazed and thrilled that the paint I had chosen matched one of the colors of the apron I used as the inspiration for the kitchen. Anyway, the laundry room is now painted. We are waiting for a good day to spray paint the cabinets that I bought from Habitat from Humanity restore and then hang them up in there with some new shelving. It is going to be fabulous when it is done.

• Other
  • Thanksgiving

    We spent a little time with one of my brother’s family over the holiday and had a very good visit. We even played Mario Party (a video game) and that was a blast. And, lots of cribbage games in which I was beaten soundly.