memory lane...

Was it waking to the sound of the rain hitting the tin on top of the chimney stack?  The sound of the crackling fire sweet Hubs had built to start the weekend?  Maybe it was the picture my sweet boy sent me last night of his Christmas tree decked in lights.  Or was it the scent of the evergreen candles that I have cooling on the counter?

Maybe it was all of this and so much more. I'm in a nostalgic mood this morning.  This year has been the ultimate roller coaster. And where we are right now is exhausting. So many feelings and emotions are swirling, not just in our own country, but globally. 

As I was pouring the wax into the little jars that I found for candles, with the smell of a crisp evergreen forest swirling all around me, I glanced out the window. The sky has lightened and the storm I've been listening to with occasional flashes of lightening is now exposed.  The beautiful colors of fall have faded away, the few remaining leaves with the exception of the purple/red of the Japanese Maple out front have all turned a dark brown. Clinging hopelessly waiting for the final wind that will rip them away.  Falling to the ground to finish their life cycle, becoming first a place for a variety of larvae to nest until spring and finally to serve as fertilizer for the spring rebirth. 

The smell of the wood fire, mixed with evergreen has Christmas carols playing in my head. Day dreaming of the upcoming holiday and how different it will be.  I woke this morning from a dream where I was making Christmas lists, too bad I couldn't remember what I had written, it seemed like a great list.  Thought and care going into exactly what we wanted to give to each person. 

I find myself sliding deeper and deeper into the core of who I am.  I don't agree with much that is going on in the world right now.  I fear we are being lied to on a grand scale.  I don't know.  But I have no faith or trust. The only faith and trust I have rests with God. I know that things are happening according to his plan and I need to simply pray and rest in that knowledge.

This is what is drawing me back I feel.  That wax pouring reminded me so much of Christmas as a child.  I don't remember what state we lived in or how old I was.  I remember all of us girls with Mom and Dad making Christmas candles.  There were evergreen trees that we carefully put whipped wax on to look like fallen snow. It seems they may have had glitter sprinkled on top, but I can't see them in my mind's eye that clearly.  I remember the Santa ones, climbing into the chimney, colored red with the whipped wax for his beard, the snow and fur on his suit. I remember pouring candles, laughter and love. We were never rich in dollars, but boy oh boy we were rich in love!

The candles that are cooling now are ear-marked to send the boy and his girl. I am going to go down shortly and find the box of his ornaments.  I think it is still separate.  Although I'm not sure.  Last year when we put the tree up he wanted them on the tree and when I said should I box them for you to take home, he hadn't wanted that.  He was not planning to spend Christmas at their home. But 2020 has changed that. 

I want to make sure he has some of the magic that makes Christmas special for them.

This is the first Christmas that I am struggling with gifts and ideas.  So many are struggling on different levels.  My heart says stay practical.  Make it something to cherish.  Make it something that is needed.  A few things made for some, a few things that have been found in many places.  No clutter or waste.  Some treasures of love and time, wrapped up in memories to share. 

Gee that doesn't sound intimidating at all does it? 

The embers of my fire are almost gone, the coffee is getting cold.  I heard the laundry ding, and I am sure my wax is just about ready to check on.  I have soaps waiting for attention and chores to complete.  I want to finish up the stuff to mail and check in with the girl to see if she came up with any ideas for the day tomorrow (this rain is supposed to pass).  I need to figure out what my contribution to Thanksgiving will be - since I am the difficult one to feed.  I have scarf's needing blocked and a few other projects to work on. We need to get wedding cards to celebrate family and friends and have gifts to wrap and send. 

Why is it that the week seems to stretch out forever, yet the weekend get shorter and shorter.  

This year has changed so much for everyone.  For us personally, it's been huge! And most of it has not been gloom and doom. As I travel down this path of nostalgia today, I think the greatest gift it has given me is gratitude.  2020 has been an absolute b$tch.  She has rocked us all to our very core.  But as we stand up, dust ourselves off and move forward - I'm thankful!  I'm thankful for family, I'm thankful for the lessons of gratitude and praise, I am thankful for all of the exciting changes and blessings that have entered our lives. Yep, Hubs and I are very blessed!

I am thankful!!

taking that moment...

Woke up this morning to the sound of rain falling steadily on the chimney pipe.  Followed immediately by the roar of thunder and the brilliant flash of lightning making the entire room have an eerie glow. It was wonderful!  I am a total rain girl.  I guess it is growing up in Germany.  I'm not sure.  But I will trade a day of sunshine (unless I planned to go cruising in my little beetle with the top down) for a day of storms and rain. 

As I was lying there snuggled in my warm quilt, stretching and contemplating starting the day, the alarm hadn't gone off yet, I hear the rhythmic thump of Neeks tail against the door.  Hubs had woken up early again and was heading upstairs with coffee.  I don't really need an alarm, these two guys can handle it all on their own.  I wasn't ready for the barrage of lights, the switch from monotone news to louder jazz, and I really wasn't ready to converse with the already coffee filled, hour awake Hubs.  But his day was starting super early, so mine was too. 

I was savoring that peaceful moment. 

Although, I definitely don't regret the extra time to chat and spend time with Hubs.  We only went back to work yesterday and already things feel a bit out of control. I made a promise to myself and I fully intend to keep it.  I think Hubs will too, he is just going to have to juggle a bit to balance his week.

As I was up and ready, I mean may as well get the day started at the same time he did, I could have decided to rush into work.  Lord knows I have enough extra stuff staring me in the face right now.

I could have.

I didn't.  I made another cup of coffee, took advantage of the break in the rain and took the Neeko for a longer stroll, those quick dashes out in the rain were not going to suffice for the entire day. Took the time to make my bed, dust my mantle and all the urns that sit there, and now I am writing. 

I don't want to lose the beautiful gift those two weeks gave me. I had so many people yesterday tell me I looked refreshed and rested.  Those words were precious.  Because I feel refreshed and rested. 

I was hoping to get home a bit earlier than I made it, especially as I hadn't really had a lunch break. It didn't happen, but it was definitely earlier than the past year had been.

Bless my sweet Hubs by the way. 

I was pretty darn proud of myself yesterday morning.  Breakfast made, lunches packed, it was going to be the start to an amazingly organized day.  I'd even kept my promise to myself and had not looked at my phone for an hour after waking up. 

I was feeling pretty darn successful.

That came to a screeching halt as I was almost to work, with no time to turn around, and realized I had forgotten my lunch.  Remember we are not eating junk anymore, and I had a delish vegan pasta salad sitting at home. Right where I packed it.  Not with me.  I also knew I had nothing in my office that met the need.  It was going to be a long day!  I might have whined a bit while talking to Hubs.  That is the beauty of marriage, you always have someone to pout with and voice frustration, well among many other things... We had agreed that I would do my best to order something healthy for delivery, but I was definitely bummed. 

Around 11:30 am, just as my yummy breakfast was wearing off and I was just starting to consider who to order from in walks my awesome Hubs, with food!  He'd squeezed in a few extra minutes to make sure I had lunch.  Instead of a beautiful park with soft breezes blowing our hair and sparkling waters near by we had a picnic right there in my office.  The lunch and company were fabulous, I really would have preferred a beautiful park. But I am not trading that little bit of joy for anything.

I'm finding that life is truly about finding those moments and pockets of joy.  It can't be all nose to the grindstone.  It has to have those moments.

When I finally got home last night, I wanted nothing more than for someone else to cook.  The first day back is always tough after a short break, after two weeks, it was a bit daunting. I was mentally tired.  I was also tired of being inside.  I hadn't realized how much time I had spent enjoying being outside, until all I had was the view from my window. I definitely wasn't looking forward to more time inside doing "work". That lunch debacle had derailed my whole "organized" theme.

After a few pouty moments, a bit of playing chase Neeko through the house with toys, I decided I was definitely hungry.  Time to cook.  Nothing appealed to me, I didn't want black bean burgers again.  Even though they were delicious!  And I didn't really want my pasta salad (I mean I still needed lunch for today).  I was really craving some good Asian food, but didn't want to go anywhere and chance not being what I need to keep feeling good.

The struggle was REAL!

Flipping through the cookbook, deciding that sushi was not something I was ready to try while tired and hungry.  I wanted something quick. I happened upon a Pho-inspired Udon bowl.  I had all the ingredients, ironically, I mean if you never cook Asian food at home why would you have Chinese Five Spice in your spice rack... who knows, but I did!  I had recently decided to purchase some baby bok choy, I mean they weren't expensive and they looked adorable and I was simply sure I would find something to use them in. Thirty minutes later, we sat down to a delicious dinner. I was again feeling accomplished.  It's the little things. 

Now I just need to decide if it will be that yummy pasta salad for lunch or the Pho... decisions, decisions.  One thing for certain, I will definitely be taking my lunch today.

Hubs has a long day today, so I will be the one to make adjustments to insure Neeko gets his walk and dinner.  Chances are I will bring work home and catch up in silence. Who knows...

But for now the rain has let up, although I seriously enjoyed walking in the rain with Neeks, it was refreshing and powerful.  Like it was rinsing away the weariness.  And my stolen  planned "me" time is over.  It's time to go and earn my paycheck.  I feel a bit more balanced just for allowing myself time for me.

I'm ready...

accepting...

Struggling to sleep. 

I had forgotten this part of the mourning process.  It could be my subconscious is still programmed to wake and listen for his breathing in the middle of the night.  Not sure.  I'm at peace, I'm not tortured that he's gone.  I'm hurting.  I look at his spots and my heart tightens.  It's different than the ones I lost far too young.  Yet it hurts just the same.

I struggled all day yesterday to figure out what I wanted inscribed on his box.  Torn.  Too few words to express his lifetime of love and devotion.  I finally decided late last night.  Over 24 hours of loss had the clearing ability I needed.

As I was driving home from work last night the sky, the air, everything was this strange orange color.  We had a horrible storm roll in around 6 pm.  The sky went from pure beautiful blue with bright sunshine to a deep rolling black/gray color.  You could see it moving in.  For hours  lightning lit the deepness all around us.  When I left a little after 8 pm feeling beat up and incapable of anything, the sky started to lighten.  It as still raining, lightning was flashing all around, but the sky turned orange.  I felt like I was in some strange Hollywood sci fi as I drove home. 


My mind was processing the day, some news I had received, the loss of my sweet boy, worry over how Neeko was doing.  It was surreal. It was overwhelming. I felt like I had somehow become part of the sunset, not just simply watching it.

Maybe all of those things were the reason for the stolen sleep?

Of all our babies, Neeko is the most social.  Either of the other two would have gladly been an only child.  Not Neeks.  He is the eternal puppy at heart.  The house is littered with his toy collection, he is worse than a two year old.  He's bouncy and joyous.  And he thrives on attention and love. 

The journey to this home and now has taken us from a micro zoo... 2 cats, 2 dogs, a lizard and turtle to simply Neeko.  It feels weird to not think in plural terms.  Hubs just took Neeko for his morning walk.  I guess I could have gotten dressed and joined them.  But my heart isn't ready.  I don't want anyone to ask where Gator is.  People get weird when you refer to them passing, some people just don't understand that he is our baby.  Hubs and I never had two legged children together.  Our boys, are just that, our boys.

When I got home last night Neeks didn't greet me with a toy, as he usually does.  He wandered over, head down, eyes looking sad and lonely.  I could see what had worried Hubs all day.  I couldn't have it. I am not ready for him to mourn himself to the Rainbow Bridge, he will get there soon enough.  He will be 15 in November, unheard of for his breeds. 

I grabbed a stuffed bunny from his toy box and told him it was mine!  In typical two year old style the challenge was accepted.  We played for about 15 minutes.  Chasing each other around the main floor, playing with his toys, watching the joy return to his eyes.  He even climbed in bed with me at the end of the night.  Allowing me to comfort him.  He hadn't allowed that the night before. 

I don't know how many more sunrises and sunset we will share with our Neeko.  Our last boy, I hope there are many.  I'm not ready for any more loss right now.  I'm not ready for silence of that level. 

There are other things to occupy my mind, things that will need a lot of my attention.  But for this moment in time.  I am choosing to focus on bringing joy back to a silly old boy, I don't want him to experience any more loneliness than is necessary.

I'm processing the next steps, I'm processing the news I received yesterday.  There is some educating that needs to happen.  I need to learn more.  I need to figure out what all of it means.  For today and this moment, it can wait.

This morning Hubs and I washed off the rocks that have been rolling for most of the month.  Phase 3, pre-polishing has started.  Hubs has fallen in love with one of the most beautiful stones, and I need to start exploring how to create a ring for him with it. It is so very beautiful, the energy of that stone will be perfect for him.  A few more weeks until their true beauty shines through... When do I get to phase 3 for me?

in the silence...

The rain has been falling for two days, it's so therapeutic for me.

Having spent most of my growing up years in Germany, I feel most centered and at home when it rains.  I love the sounds, smells and the feeling of the air.

I also enjoy the fact that it forces us to slow.  I have a book I want to read (I haven't started it yet, but I will), I started a project that means a great deal for my heart.  It's a gift, so I can't even show you a picture.  Starting that project gives me the permission that I find I desperately need to stop and slow down, to simply sit with Hubs and enjoy a show.  To allow the therapy of a needle and thread to still my thoughts and draw me into the beauty being created.

Yesterday was the monthly psychic fair at my favorite little shop in Maplewood.  I feel drawn to it each month, like a moth to a light.  I don't want to miss it. Something about that little shop makes me feel calm.  It instills a peace in me that I find I truly need in my life right now.

I've been trying a different reader and medium each time.  Each time has been uniquely different, and at the same time all of them have given me something to think about. I think that is what I find so freeing about my monthly trip there.  I did need to get my sage, and I forgot to pick up the candles that I wanted, but I had so much to swirling in my brain that I simply wanted time to process it.

What we did remember to buy was a small xylophone for Hubs.  While I was doing my first reading I heard someone playing with the different bowls and pipes.  It was calming and beautiful.  As I finished and turned around - there was Hubs.  Completely engrossed in the Free Tone. The sounds softly filled the shop and it truly resonated calm and peace. The music was naturally pouring out of him and his calmness evident.

I didn't think twice, I simply bought it.  I want my sweet Hubs to be with me for a very long time, our life journey is definitely together and I might be a tad greedy.  Therefore anything that can bring him that much peace is a definite must have.

He loves music and sound, I often tease him that he needs a soundtrack to his life.  Honestly, maybe he does.  Because the music he was making yesterday could definitely be a soundtrack to mine.

I had wanted to spend a bit more time in Maplewood.  The small shops bring me happiness.  I could spend hours lost in most of them, which is saying something since I hate to shop.  I really enjoy the quirkiness of those kind of places.  I want to support them in a way I am not drawn to big box stores.  Unfortunately, some of them have put a bad taste in my mouth so to speak, so I didn't choose to linger,  I went in search of other places and experiences.

Then this morning as I am surfing through my emails quickly, looking to see if there was anything I truly needed to read or if it was simply junk mail, I was assaulted by more of what had bothered me so deeply just yesterday.

I am a pretty big proponent of live and let live.  I am not going to tell you how to feel, who to love, who you should pray to, or well basically anything.  I firmly believe that each of us is on a journey in this life and none of our journey's are the same. I don't care what your political beliefs are - nor will I beat you up for them.  I am not here to judge if you are thin or heavy, eat meat or don't. I don't care about basically anything except how you treat others.

Are you a good human?  Do you treat people and animals with care and love?  Cool, you are a rock star in my book.

So I prefer to not have a daily dose of politics, hatred and assaults on anyone served up with my interactions with companies I purchase things from.  An example is a spice shop I used to love, I can't deal with the hatred spewed by the owner in the guise of peace, love and hope.  It doesn't matter to me who you vote for, what your beliefs are, etc.  What matters is that we all respect other's thoughts and beliefs, while being true to our own.  Wouldn't it be an incredibly boring and unfulfilling world if we were all the same?

I mean seriously... I am a totally odd duck.  Most people never get to know me deep enough to understand who I am and what makes me tick.  And frankly, I'm good with that.  Because bits and pieces of a person do not explain the whole.

Yet this individual spews so much hatred to push his own beliefs that he doesn't care about the people he might be hurting in the end.  He's gone so far as to say too bad if they don't think like I do they can stay away from my business.  Yet, it's all about hope, love and acceptance.  To me... those things do not describe the daily tirades that he sends out.

There are other spice shops, there are people working in them that treat everyone with value, love and acceptance.  Those are my people.  I will find them.  I have worked hard to eliminate the haters from my life.  I don't need to support them financially.

I really wish that companies would stop playing into the divisiveness that is ruining our country.  That they would stop feeding that ugly beast. Maybe that is why I find peace when I go to Mystic Valley.  It's like a judgement free zone.  My inner hippie child is able to just be one with other people that all want the same thing.

Wow, I guess I've rambled on about some serious randomness today.  The laundry is waiting and so is my project.  I want to work on it for at least an hour, but this felt pressing.  Who knows why.

I am thankful for another rainy day.  A chance to slow and connect with the world. How about you?

dawn...

Coffee brewing.  Birds chirping. Perfect way to wake up today.

I'm getting ready to unplug for the day. 

Hubs is still sleeping soundly.  The boys aren't ready to get up and go for their morning walk yet.  Sitting in the silence, is like being wrapped in a big fluffy warm blanket in the middle of a storm.

I honestly feel sorry for people that have to be surrounded by modern noise just to feel... what is it that they need all of that noise for?  Comfort? Security? Companionship?  I'm not really sure. 

I don't understand, because I truly don't need it.  In fact for me it is overwhelming.  Exhausting. 

I love this time of the day.  When the world is still sleeping.  When you are blanketed by natural quiet.  The wind through branches that have not yet started to fill with flowers and leaves. Rustling their limbs against each other.  A muted scratching as they glance along the exterior of the house.  I woke up to the sound of rain drops hitting the roof.  Well not the roof, but the metal chimney cover. 

The distant rumble of the train making it's early morning run is overshadowing the wind that just picked up, the rustle of the trees and the sound of the bird songs.  Thankfully it will only last for a moment.

Soon the world will wake up.  Shake off their Saturday morning sleepiness.  It will get back to being a blur of activity. It will be so loud that you will not be able to hear the soft melody of the wind chimes swirling gently in the breeze.  I can't be the only one that struggles with the noise of everyday life. I wish there was a pause button.

Hubs and I have plans to go riding with friends today. I'm not so sure that Mother Nature concurs.  I haven't checked the weather forecast, I am simply looking out the window.  Listening to the rain.  We aren't riding until noon, we might not be riding at all.  It's the mid-west after all, five hours can take you from winter to summer, so we will wait and see.

I hope it clears up, I could use the ride.  The wind in my face the ability to get away and forget.  We are planning to ride a fairly busy route today.  Hubs wants to show his new friend some of the best local rides, he's new in town. I would love the ride if it wasn't so crowded.  It's beautiful. Straight along the mighty Mississippi. 

We didn't make it up to Grafton earlier this year to see the eagles.  I am sure there will still be some young ones soaring high above the bluffs, but nothing compares to the the skies above being filled with what seems like hundreds of eagles gracefully riding the air currents off the bluffs, watching the rippling currents of the Mississippi for their next tasty morsel of seafood or the fields for a nice fat rodent or bunny. 

I'm sorry I missed them. Like my Dad, I love watching eagles.  They are so beautiful.

I haven't checked to see the conditions on the roads to and from Grafton.  All this rain may have the river too high to take the ferry over to Brussels.  I don't think we've had too much to keep us out of Grafton, but far too often in the spring their roads become impassible.

I guess we will do that before we head up there.  It's not that far away, but it is far enough that if it's impassible it's definitely too far of a ride to go nowhere.

While Hubs and the boys are still sleeping, I think I am going to steal a bit of time to do some spinning.  The beautiful caramel color of this alpaca roving is sitting her taunting me.  I have enough spun to ply with the little bit of a previous single that needs a mate.  I'm just not ready to pull the bobbin.  I want to fill it first. I'm trying to spend some time each week, although I'd love it to be each day pulling the soft roving into yarn.  I have no idea what I want to make with the yarn when I finish.  No idea whatsoever.  If I can spin enough and it's soft enough, maybe it will become a cardigan to romp around in on cool spring and autumn days?  Or maybe something for Hubs.  I don't make him much... he has a few favorites, but mostly he feels the wool's are too bulky for him.

Maybe as we daydream about the perfect retirement locations I should throw a few northern locales into the mix?  He might love my woolen sweaters then. And the warm socks that I have made.

Well, the coffee has finished brewing.  And I do think I want a few minutes of roving time.  Later this weekend there will be floors and toilets to install, soaps to make, plans to create and food to cook.  But for a few quiet moments, the warmth of the coffee and the soft clicks of my spinning wheel reminding me to oil it are all I want to enjoy.

Find your peace today.  Don't wait for tomorrow...

because I can...

As the coffee cooled in my cup, I stood in the garage with Hubs.  The day started with heavy rain, not the kind that the boys were even remotely going to consider walking in.  Me either for that matter.

The kind of fall morning where you can stand and let the scents soak into your very being.  Not cold, not hot, simply a fall morning.  The colors are starting to get crazy beautiful and without the rain it would have been the perfect day for a ride to look at the colors.

Instead, we sipped coffee, Hubs enjoyed his cigar and we slowly started the day.

I came inside sooner than Hubs did.  Fall is when I want to create.  I'd ordered some soap bases and have really wanted to try my hand at cold process soaps.  I started with hot process. Oddly I always seem to be attracted to the more difficult way to do things first.

Seems no one ever tells me until after the fact that I have selected the more difficult pattern, style, recipe etc. And my brain simply decides the easier way is the more difficult way.

I am not sure why.

My first hand quilt - hexagons. No one told me otherwise.

First wood working project - I built and painted a shelf - with hand tools - it was all I had.

My first crochet pattern - a full afghan

The list is endless.

I love learning new crafts.  Testing myself.  I don't believe in the no win scenario.

Today, it was cold process soap.  I'd watched the video that went with the kit I'd purchased.  It was on sale. I had a second mold, so I went out on a limb and purchased the refill kit also.  I mean, why not? I never stop to think that something is going to be too difficult before jumping in with both feet!

I couldn't believe it was going to be that easy, in fact, I was sure it wasn't.

So while Hubs relaxed in the man cave, I set about making some new soap. As they are cold process I won't know until at least tomorrow if they have turned out.  They are heavy with natural butters to increase the moisturizing properties.  Hubs is a fan of lather, still don't get that one, but I love a thick moisturizing soap.  I don't care about bubbles!  I want soft skin.

Our house is filled with an earthy, citrus, lemony scent from the combination of tea tree oil and lemongrass.  I was a bit put off by the creators' description of the scent as fruity pebbles.  That seriously did not sound at all pleasant. I was definitely concerned.  I didn't need to be.  While the initial scent of lemongrass is vaguely reminiscent of a questionable childhood memory, it is rapidly overtaken by something completely different.

It will be a few weeks before I am able to share these soaps or even use them myself.  Maybe that is one of the reasons I never attempted it before.  I am not always patient.  Although with my work life being what it is now, I am finding that I have more patience.  Nothing seems to happen quickly anymore. By the time I have time to enjoy this, I am fairly positive it will have cured completely.

Shortly I will head up to my craft room. I have those quilts to wrap up, and I am anxious to start on my own projects.  Which my conscience will not allow until those quilts are finished.  I will finish one today and start on the other after running errands this evening.

Hubs is taking a nap.  The dreary rainy day is taking it's toll.

I have some vacation coming up soon and I want to spend the time working on things I want to work on.  A crocheted hat from my youngest grand baby.   Some socks that are almost complete, a variety of UFO's - un-finished objects (projects) - not aliens. And some small things that I've found that need to show up at Christmas.

And honestly I am dying to start spinning again.  My wheel is dusty and in need of attention. But I am longing to feel the fibers slide through my fingers again.  My knee had halted my work on my spinning wheel. The pain of moving any muscles connected to it, was overwhelming.  I am hoping that it is stronger now.

Fall always brings me back to my first loves.  Homemaking and creating.  Maybe it's the chill that the air takes on, maybe it is thinking ahead to the upcoming holidays.

Could be the shorter days drawing me home to the fireplace at night?  I haven't had a fall fire yet, but the days are coming.  Hubs and I will need to bring some logs up and I will need to run to St. Vincent's to pick up some fire starters.

Yesterday as I prepared the apple cobbler and chili for the staff meeting, I had a million fall thoughts running through my head, things I want to do.

Who knows what projects await me, it's fall after all, and new ideas are always popping into my head. My son will be home for Christmas, there is much to prepare before he arrives. So many little things.  I want to insure that he feels wrapped in the love of home and family.  I rarely see him anymore.  The nurturing side of mom is kicking into overdrive.

I keep challenging myself... because I can...

trotting in the rain...

It's Tulip Trot Day! 

It's pouring rain. And yes I do intend to walk it regardless!  I had been hoping for sunshine and nice temperatures. Mother Nature, that fickle old woman, decided chilly and wet was far more preferable. Ugghhh, it's the first time that I will go to the Missouri Botanical Gardens.  I'd had such high hopes to enjoy the beauty.  I will still enjoy the beauty, just in a different way. 

I don't mind rain.  I seriously do not. The girls are joining Hubs and I, although I feel Hubs is considering opting out.  He is not a fan of rain. Who knows the girls might opt out also.  I hope not.  I am not willing to give up so easy.  It's just another step on this journey. 

I got on the scale this morning, yes I know I told The Beast I would wait two weeks, I didn't.  I wish I had. On a basic level I know that weight training is going to cause swollen muscles initially. I know that muscles have more "weight" than fat. Logic weighs heavily in all of that.  But I can tell you, that the emotional side, the heart that has pushed through this journey was NOT happy this morning. 

I need to really refocus on my cardio and watching my diet.  Hubs and I have been resorting to our old ways far too often.  Not out of laziness, but out of sheer exhaustion. I toyed with getting something quick to eat for breakfast this morning.  But with the scale burning in my memory and The Beast's words about cardio and diet ringing in my ears I stopped for a moment and reassessed.  

A healthy, low-fat, low-sugar, high protein bowl of Greek yogurt, whole grains and a few strawberries later, I feel ready to take on the world.  Or at least 5K of soggy.

I know I am making progress, yesterday for the first time in almost a decade I shopped in the non-"women's" section. Not everything was bought there.  But enough to make me proud of my hard work.  

This journey is hard.  We are so ingrained to want instant success.  To take those baby steps, to struggle.  It feels unnatural.  And truly it is the most natural thing in the world.  Now if you see my gorgeous daughter who had a baby just over 9 weeks ago and she looks like a super model, it's easy to understand my frustration. Then I remember that she has the time for those walks and all those projects she's always working on are the truest definition of functional fitness.  And I feel a bit better about where I am on my personal journey. 

So... As we were heading to the Tulip Trot we got a notification that it was being cancelled due to rain. We decided to go pick up our shirts and transfer our registration to the Garden Gallop they are having in June. My girl and I were so excited to find out we could not only transfer, but also still walk the 5K, they just weren't allowing runners due to the standing water on the paths.  Safety first you know (which actually was not a bad idea as several places were a bit slick due to the water on the stones and or wood). So we smiled sweetly and got the Hubs and Grand Daughter to walk with us. That's our version anyhow...  it had nothing to do with the fact that we had the truck keys and were not negotiating.

If felt pretty amazing to hit 10,000 steps before 8:30 am.  And even in the rain, those gardens are breath taking!  Absolutely beautiful!  How have I never been there before?  I was feeling like a total slacker about it until Hubs made the comment that he's from here and in his WHOLE 65 years, he's never been either.  He has me beat hands down. Completely.

So, not only are we the proud owners of sore thighs, achy old knees, pruned feet and probably a few blisters, we didn't let a little (okay, so we are under an areal flood warning) rain deter us.

Now a tub with some Epsom salts and catching up on my magazines await my attention.  

do unto others

My adopted "hometown" often surprises me.

There are times that it feels like a "big" small town.  Where everyone is kind and helpful, if a bit nosy.

Then there are the times that sadden and shock me.  Because when someone says they are from St. Louis, well that actual number is really quite small.  "St. Louis" encompasses so many small municipalities and townships that I am often dumbfounded by the sheer number of city limit signs you pass driving up highway 70 to the airport.

The local news screams about districts, areas and counties.  In the all too recent past this jumbled up group of individual towns that all get lumped together have even made the national and international news services.

As an outsider, I can tell you, it's a hard city to understand.  I have had to learn lessons that I never learned in my life.  I am not sure how well I have learned them now.

I digress..

I want to share a story with you.

There is a hockey round two game.  Meaning... first off "Let's GO BLUES", next... traversing the city to leave is going to be a nightmare! (I mean we have two sports that we are passionate about... Hockey and Baseball - both have the same outcome on traffic.)

Secondly, it's raining.  I've lived all over this crazy planet and I have never witnessed rain being a magic potion that eliminates the driving skill of thousands of people all at once.

The path I usually take is fairly quick it's a simple two 4 lane divided city street, a couple of lights and a choice to take 44 or 55.  Because in this city everyone knows you avoid highway 40 at all costs, especially during rush hour.

It was moving slow, as in a 10 minute drive out of town became a 35 minute drive to an even worse commute on the highway.  A disabled vehicle in the right lane was making it worse.

I wasn't close enough to help, but an elderly man, quite frail and fragile looking was trying to fix a flat, he'd evidently hit one of our infamous pot holes.  As I was debating on how I could possibly get over to help him, and how much help I was going to be.  I mean, I haven't changed a tire in about 30 years, at least I don't recall doing so, since my dad MADE me learn before I could have a license.

It was then that I noticed a big guy parked a bit ahead of him with his hazards flashing, rushing up to help. He was young, strong and looked like he could have bench pressed that car to get it out of the traffic lane. Watching him rush up to help, filled me with not only pride, but hope.

My heart soared even higher when I watched the young woman in the car with him, rush out, grasping her umbrella to hand them for shelter, she didn't stay under it, she walked further down the road to direct traffic away from them.  The night in shining armor and the wise old man who'd already slain his dragons.

Yep, I believe in fairy tales.  And I believe that even in a town such as this, that the pure and honest good in people can overcome so many things! This town is very racially divided, still.  This tears at my heart. It isn't something I always understand.

I tend to see people in two buckets and two buckets only.  Either you are a good person (flawed or not) or you are a bad person (someone that just doesn't care who you hurt with your actions or words).

I deliberately left the race of these wonderful people out of my story.  But in a town such as this can sometimes be, it was what made it the most poignant part of the story.  That young couple didn't think twice, that old man graciously accepted their help.  In a neighborhood that is questionable.  Where lives are often viewed as disposable, I watched love, compassion and concern.

Maybe, just maybe, there will come a day when we no longer see colors of skin.  When we see the goodness of the heart and soul. Maybe that shining moment will happen when hatred, fear, and all the other ugly things will face that kind of love and light.

Can you imagine it?  In a pouring cold rain, I watched the proof before my very eyes.

I hope that incredibly unselfish young man and his beautiful compassionate woman will continue to be just that.  Rescuing those that need their help, regardless of their personal discomfort, because it is the right thing to do.  And I hope that old man proved that wisdom comes with age and was gracious and thankful...

Yep... this city is full of surprises... and I am thankful for the one I witnessed.

It restored my faith...

ps... I'm not Paul Harvey, I'm not going to tell you "the rest of the story", because those silly details that the media focuses on... they don't change the story...

rest?

I'm meltingggg... or at least it sure feels that way.  The temperature may only be 75, but I am fairly positive the humidity is well over 90%. Gross!

After coaxing the old guy out for a walk, I decided I would tackle my own walk.  I am determined to make it five times a week minimum.  Maybe that little challenge from my fit-bit is starting to get to me... Every week it reminds me that I didn't quite make it... better luck next week.  Digging into my brain.  Who needs a personal trainer when your electronic devices will scold you continually.  Better question is why am I listening to it!

Even though it was humid and damp out it was peaceful and I was even treated to a visit by three precious little fawns.  They even allowed me a few pictures.  They are fairly brave as they didn't even attempt to run back to where mom was hiding until I was a few feet away on the road.  One of our neighbors was attacked by a mom, so I made sure I kept my distance.  Zoom lenses are great!

Hubs had to be at work for a meeting this morning.  It was supposed to be our last day of vacation together... but life sometimes happens.  I should have left the little old guy in the house this morning when he went for his walk.  It was raining, but I am sure it was much cooler.  Gator isn't about to walk in the rain, so I let him come back inside.  Hubs and Neeko powered through the entire mile and a half in the rain.  Although, Hubs got a reality check.  The Neek's was dragging a bit on the last half mile.  He's almost 10, most days you forget he's such a puppy, but today he sure slowed down on the last bit of the walk.

I'm puttering around the house this morning while he works.  Cleaning out cabinets, doing laundry, planning menu's for the balance of the week, mopping, dusting... wow, sure sounded domestic for a moment there. Sometimes as I am surrounded by a week of dropped bags, mail piles, puppy fur and piles of laundry I feel overwhelmed.  Like somewhere along the line I became a horrible housewife.  The 1950's version of me often clashes with the 2016 version.

Deep inside I long to do things like this all the time 24/7.  I am not sure if it is leftover from growing up or an actual desire.  Then I have a few minutes, and that is all it takes, with my co-workers and our members, and I don't miss it so much.  My natural care-taker introverted self realizes that I thrive with those people. Maybe Hub's extroverted self is rubbing off on me...

Ummm... maybe not.  I am fairly positive that I am never going to be an extrovert.

I might just be enjoying this silence a bit much.  Gator's soft snores punctuated by the fountain in the turtle aquarium sounds like a symphony to my ears.  I cherish this kind of peacefulness.  It helps me recharge.

Tomorrow I will head back to work for two days.  I feel after a break a short week is going to feel pretty nice.  Smooth way to ease back into it. I've had time to unwind and relax, I feel refreshed.

For the balance of today, I am going to focus on the home front.  I might even do a bit of work on a couple of my craft projects.  And I know I am going to do more cooking.  I have to admit my spiralizer that Hubs got me for my birthday (yes I know it was early - but I needed play time, ask him, he'll tell you!) makes it a joy to fix some really yummy meals.  And the fact that they are healthy... bonus!

Well... I feel like I have spent far too much time sitting still... my to do list is simply not going to do itself...

the dawn of spring...

The star magnolia and cherry blossom's are starting to pop open, there are daffodils, crocus and jonquils popping up in random gardens. Our Rose of Sharon is starting to put forth buds and so is the lilac.  It's that time in early spring when everything is starting to consider budding out.  In a few weeks it will be a riot of color and life returning.  A welcome respite from the dreary, dank, bland winter.  

This morning

I love winter.  Don't get me wrong.  There is nothing that makes my heart sing like a deep, bright, white blanket of snow.  The kind that instills a deep silence, that makes everything have a heavenly glow. Unfortunately... we simply didn't get much of that.  The trees only bowed briefly, the ground soft and fluffy. The world frozen for a moment in time.  Instead... we got a lot of cold, blustery winds and a ton of dreary, lifeless browns.  Persephone was truly resting in Hades. The only brightness or beauty were the few stolen days with a beautiful blue sky and sunshine, the blue birds, blue jays and cardinals brought a brief respite also. 

Three weeks ago...

My favorite seasons are spring and fall, by a long shot.  I don't believe I have SADD, but I do believe the dreariness causes me to feel very sad.  

This morning it took a bit longer for "morning" to arrive, thanks to daylight savings time, and the fact that the fog was so thick London and Seattle would be so proud! There is a constant rain. Tiny and almost invisible, the kind that doesn't really drench you, but makes you damp to the bone. Falling gently, persistently.

It appears to affect Hubs and I a bit differently. He's bundled in a fleece jacket, jeans and hat sitting in the garage smoking a cigar.  Almost seems to be hibernating.  He's a tad on the grumpy side and sort of growling at the world.  Internet is being squirrely (ironically it is no doubt due to the squirrels) and he gets bored easily. 

Me on the other hand... well after a long week of work, an unexpected day spent outside on the parking lot and a ton of stuff to actually get done (both work and home)... I am sitting here sipping my smoothie (got my new blender Friday!)  trying to "talk" myself into doing those chores.  

But... I really just want to plant my flower boxes full of peas and radishes in this soggy wet fog.  I am imagining their sweet goodness, if the squirrels are able to be kept at bay. 

I want to go out front and ravish those ugly long neglected box woods.  Tear them out at their roots.  Expose the earth in front of the house for beautiful flowers that love the partial shade it seems to always be bathed in. The norfolk pine, also long neglected and abused really needs to go.  I loved it initially, but seeing it daily, with the majority of it chopped away carelessly to accommodate the fact that it was planted far too close to the house, it looks awkward and odd.  Almost half dead.

Do you see me hiding?

I would love to spend the day walking in the drizzly rain.  It reminds me so much of the time I spent in Germany as a teen and adult.  I saw many of Europe's great wonders through this type of misty rain.  I long to go to the zoo, walk without the crowds.  Not caring if my hair gets wet, my glasses spotted or the cuffs of my pants get damp.  Just to enjoy the walk.  

This type of early spring rain feels like it cleanses away the stress the winter puts on me.  It makes me feel alive and vibrant.  Even the ache in my knee isn't making me as gloomy.  As I prepared our smoothies this morning, I was tempted to leave out the greens.  To simply make it a fruit smooth, bright and cheery.  

The dawn of spring is so life giving. The smell of the earth, getting my hands dirty in soil.  Preparing for the beauty. I even have more energy.  Which is darn good, because I have not been hitting my 10,000 steps a day.  Some of that is this stupid knee, some of it is exhaustion, some... well let's be honest, some is simply laziness!

I have a lot going on at work right now, so my mornings are spent rushing around between therapy (not even accomplished every day consistently), getting dogs walked, lunches packed, smoothies made, and honestly I am usually trying to iron work clothes at the last minute. All before I have to leave for a 40 minute commute. Not gonna lie, that kills me!  I hate to drive, and hate it even more that it is so long, but I don't want to give up what I am doing in the city nor do I want to move from my beautiful home (my castle).  So I'm still stuck in the middle for a bit. 

By the time I remember that I really should go home, it's time to start the cycle in reverse again.  Walk the boys, cook dinner, clean up, and here is where I really should get more exercise or do something I enjoy, but what I usually do is crash.  I sit brain dead beside Hubs, willing myself to stay awake for another hour or two. 

I am mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted.  I have nothing left to offer.  Heck way too often dinner isn't even cooked.  We either go out or don't eat (nice options - NOT). And when I have to be at work until 9, chances are Hubs is either grazing on unhealthy, grabbing a sandwich, or something else even worse for his waistline. 

Between his hip replacements and the moderate/severe arthritis diagnosis for this stupid knee, both of us seriously need to be healthier.  I am not doing well with the instruction to take medicine twice a day (I HATE medicine!).  Maybe this additional hour of sunlight will help! Time to start considering replacing our bikes, time for longer walks, time to even squeeze in some water aerobics at the Y. As the days get longer and warmer maybe I will tackle a bit of a garden again (except for those poacher squirrels).

Hmmm... I might just plant a few radishes and peas today...

It's the mid-west after all...

9 am yucky rain

Hubsters and I have been busy this morning!  Thought I would slow down for a minute and drink my smoothie and maybe type a bit.

Last weekend we were both fighting the crud, weather forecast said sunny, dry and near 50 today, so no worries we will take it down on the following Saturday.  No worries, no stress, perfect plan. Maybe it is time to remind myself that we live in the mid-west, and a weather forecast of only a day is a crap shoot.

Before day break we were rushing to take the boys for their walk - before they got soaked with some seriously cold rain - yep, we were not successful.  And the Gator does not like his old bones to be cold or wet.

Then rushing around to take down the outside decorations before the possible 2 - 4 inches of snow hits us after noon when the temps decide to drop dramatically. I did not want to be trying to take it all down in that kind of mess.

Soaking wet, freezing cold, and fingers slowly thawing out, the front of the house doesn't look like the holiday ever happened.   Although I did leave the sled and snowman sign up.  After all, they are predicting snow.

Hubs also worked on the Merc, we are selling the Divine Ms. Em... She's beautiful, I love her, but truth is Hubs hasn't been up to working on her for years now, so she sits and gathers dust in between her occasional baths and starts.  Not fair for that beautiful gal to be sitting, rotting.  I'm her second owner, she deserves better than two old ladies owning her.  

Besides we need two functioning cars.  These long days are kicking our bums.  Living so far from work now, it's not even feasible to come home when one of us has to be in early or stay late. It limits opportunities and causes stress we simply don't need or want.

Hubs is outside with the young man and his dad that are interested in buying her.  I've chosen to stay out of it.  I know it's the right decision, but it's still an emotional one.  After all, Hubs bought her for me on the grand baby's first birthday!  The young man looks like he would be a good owner for her.  I am someone that goes on emotion and feelings.  To see his face as he looked at her when I took the keys out there, he wasn't seeing her age and few flaws, he was seeing her potential and beauty.  We'll see... She might have a new home very soon...

I'd just gotten up for a cup of coffee as they arrived.  They were pulling up front as I looked out the back window and realized that yet again the weathermen might possibly need a new crystal ball.  The rain was supposed to go steady until after noon.  It's not even 10 and big fluffy snowflakes are already starting to fall. I am not sure we will get any accumulation, but I am going to enjoy hanging by the fireplace watching them fall.

Okay... so reevaluation of the weather again... Seems the weatherman that said to watch for hamster sized snow flakes was not exaggerating!  These things are huge!  Almost a full snow ball size.  I do believe it might accumulate.  Unbelievable!

It's been a busy week, and I am still trying to find my groove to get back to writing, my goal is to get back to daily.  It might take a bit, but I am working towards that goal.

Butternut Ginger Soup anyone?

I am working towards a lot of goals.  I feel like the first week of any changes are always the hardest. And we made it through week one with most of our new goals intact.  I didn't write everyday, but we didn't eat out once until last night.  When we went out for a delayed Christmas party (December got too busy and crazy). And it was the most amazing seafood I have had in the mid-west, fresh daily, and just downright amazing! A solid week of home cooked meals.  It's been a long time since that has happened.  I have taken steps towards some serious professional goals, and almost completed one wrister.  Need a set of double points in the right size, that magic loop thing seriously does not work on thumbs.

Well the snow is rapidly covering things, so I need to run out for more fruits, veggies and weekly supplies before the snow makes doing that not fun. In the thirty minutes since it started snowing it's already starting to accumulate... And I went for a walk in a windbreaker yesterday... gotta love the mid-west!

Everyone stay safe and warm...

Washing away our troubles...

Rain, rain, rain... I would seriously be lying if I said that I didn't absolutely love a rainy summer day.  I guess it has a lot to do with being raised primarily in Germany.  Where the running joke was "quick take a picture before it disappears" whenever you had a fully sunny day.

It calms me, brings balance and serenity to my heart.

My rain drenched paradise....

Looking out my kitchen window while prepping for Sunday dinner I am in absolute awe of the beauty. When you are in front of my house it is your normal suburban neighborhood cul de sac.  Tidy little homes with beautifully landscaped front lawns.  A group of people that care about how their homes are perceived, people that simply care.

Then you peak out the back window... its a deep, misty rain forest.  Towering trees, flowering ones mixed in. A steamy underside rising as the heat and rain mix.  The green is lush, multi-tone, dark pine greens tempered by the soft spring green of the aspens.  It's rich.  Enveloping, welcoming and forbidding all at once.

Hubs has finished pressuring washing the front and back yard.  I offered to help, knowing darn well I would pay for it.  He refused, even though he knew he would pay for it.  I guess he figured his aching leg could rest easier in a tub filled with hot Epsom salted water a whole lot easier than I could recover from the damage mold does to me. Sure didn't realize there was so much mold until he started cleaning it either.

Ah, the joys of this deeply wooded oasis we call home.

My headache is dulling, it's been a long couple of days.  I wish it would give up and leave all together, but at least it's hit a tolerable level.  I even went out briefly to visit with the neighbors at the block party last night.  I am not overly social (despite the fact Hubs is Mr. Social Butterfly) so while he was in his glory, I was longing to be inside my dim, cool home sitting in silence and knitting.

They all seem to be very nice people.  Fun and friendly, too bad all the folks that I would want to hang out with had stayed at home inside, much like I would have done.

Today I couldn't even summon the energy for church, thankfully Hubs recorded the sermon for me so that I can listen to it a bit later.  I am still enjoying the peace and quiet.  The sound of the giant rain drops hitting the tin on the fireplace exhaust stacks is about the extent of noise I want to deal with today.

Soon the smell of Sunday dinner will start radiating through the house, as Hubs and I wait for a break in the weather to take our boys and our grand dog out for their afternoon walks. The only one of the three that is truly going to have a fit about the weather is the little old man.  The other two, well they will simply take it in stride.

I cannot believe the amount of projects on our to do list that we have accomplished.  Nor can I believe the sense of accomplishment and success that the very act of completing them has brought to my sense of well being.  Right now I am simply taking a break.  Pausing to rest my knee and my head.  Soon I will get back to the projects at hand.  Finishing the laundry, ironing, cleaning the turtle aquarium, maybe even finding the box with the quilt that I need to finish for Hubs.

I believe that he and I can tackle the world right now.  Maybe it's the power of that beautiful rain, cleansing the earth. I feel for my youngest, he lives in drought stricken California, he is also a child of Germany - I wonder how he is doing without the rain.  It feels so life giving.

Between the rain and my head I have had to slow down this weekend.  I've needed it.  I've had time to do a little of this, a little of that and a lot of reflection and planning.  Today has been about slow.  Slow roasted dinner, simmering gently in the oven.  Slowly working my way through my chores - stopping and resting when needed.  It's been renewing.

Hubs and I were just talking about how when you are deeply engaged in doing something that you feel brings value to you and your life that it is very easy to forget the pain or exhaustion it is going to cause.  I understood completely what he was talking about.  As I'd watch from a safe distance as he methodically cleaned both the deck and patio, each swipe leaving the clean and mold free beauty that was there I understood.  He was finding peace and accomplishment in a job well done.  I also knew he'd be hurting when he walked out of that bubble of concentration.  I do that a lot myself.  I get so wrapped up in a project, task or goal that I forget that life has given me perimeters that I really do need to function inside of. And when that happens... I pay for it.

Hubs and I are both surrounded by an amazing support system.  Proving to us time and again that sometimes water is thicker than blood and that if we need so little as a hug or prayer there are many to help us.  We don't waste that love and support on silly things.  We would never dream of abusing it.  The time will come where we will need help.  Today simply isn't that day.

It's time to open the blinds a bit more and savor that elemental beauty that only a deep, steady, rhythmic rain can bring to the soul.  While we wrap our hearts in the love of our families (blood, Y, church, neighbors)...

Even in the darkest hours... There is love and beauty!

Our new life... In progress...

My list of woulda, coulda and shoulda's is pretty long and intense.  I know there is a long list of things that I should be doing.  Or could be doing... or even would be doing.  But I am sitting in my sweet living room, curled up with my Gator and Hubby, listening to the thunder and rain.  The lightening seems to have passed... the woods out back looking deep hazy green.

I'm tired, actually I am worn out.  It has been a crazy few weeks.  In fact I can't believe it's already the start of the second week of July.

The Garden spot... Coming together...

The move is progressing slowly... I need to find more time to bring stuff over. I am finding a lot of times that I am looking for something, trying to remember which house it's in.  Isn't that what they call first world problems?  In my world, I am easy enough to confuse, I need no further help in wondering where I have put what, and better yet... why!

The news just said there are many more storms moving through.  I am going to laugh if the morning finds the sprinkler going off.  Hubby accidentally un-programmed the sprinkler, and then reprogrammed it.  Only time is going to tell. Well, evidently our sprinkler has a rain sensor... it was raining, so it didn't go off.  Hmmmm... giggle of the day has been averted!

a July 4th Angel!

 

Hubby and I were so blessed this past weekend, our sweet Grand Baby hung out with us!  Our second weekend in our new home and we were visited by our angel. She helped us hang tile in our new kitchen, I needed a back splash, I am a slightly messy cook.  And our appliances were coming on Saturday.  Together we hung the back splash, and talked.  I treasure time with her, and it was so fun to listen to her chatter while we were working.  She is so smart and funny!

The start...

making progress...

almost done...

Just needs the paint and it's finished!

We had multiple adventures with fireworks.  Seems the town we live right outside of has their fireworks on July 3rd.  Note to self... Don't try to go to the grocery store until after 10:30 pm on the third in Twin Oaks... wow!  Although if you want to see amazing fireworks... definitely put it on the calendar.  We did.

Yes, at Gramma's you can have strawberry short cake for breakfast!

Who need BBQ for the 4th! Baby girl wanted Hibachi Grill...

July 4th, found us sitting at a local school watching fireworks and enjoying a mini-picnic with our girl.  I was loving the selfies that she was taking of herself for her mommy.  Hard to believe she is almost eight.

I fell out laughing when she was trying to get a picture of fireworks and she couldn't get a clear one, so her solution was to take a picture off my camera.  I love that clever little angel.  She wanted to be sure that Mom had a clear shot of what she was seeing.

Ended up falling asleep last night... my brain and body simply couldn't go on any further.  Although I woke up refreshed and ready to face the day this morning.  It sure did rain last night, seems I slept through some amazing storms if the sidewalks and roads are any indications.

I find that I am loving the quality time walking with my boys in the morning.  For 12 years I have missed, maybe mourned, not having sidewalks.  I am used to having sidewalks, I love the connection they create.

Each of the boys have very different styles and when Hubby and I walk them together I always end up with Neeko.  He doesn't pull me as much as he pulls on Hubby, he's gentler.  He has some educating on walking on a leash to do.  He's not really spent much of his life strolling, so it usually ends up being a combination of a stroll followed by the occasional sprint.  It never goes well for him.

My Gator is a stroller, he will stretch his walk.  Taking the time to stop and smell not every rose, but each blade of grass and insuring he covers every inch of the walk.  He does not like it when I have to walk Neeko, he is mom's baby and doesn't want me to forget it.

This morning is the start of a new day, more to tackle, another load moved, more inputting of information into computer systems... and hopefully more tables and chairs painted so I can start bringing more into the house and out of the garage.  I don't care for the chaos of moving.  I want to get as much done as I can with every spare minute.  I only have two more days off before I go to Brazil... I just don't think I am going to get the other house emptied.

adding color

more color...

Dining room set... before...

First coat...