Daily Notes- What Happened At Our House.....Saturday November 29th. Leftovers

 People were posting pictures of their "leftover"  Thanksgiving sandwiches. 

We had a bit of a disaster here with our annual Pumpkin Pie....after the full baking time the filling was still SOUPY ....BUT I did enjoy a pile of Pie Crust and some of the thicker filling edges. (and Cool Whip).... I was the only one having that delight..... We might be able to build a sandwich (like the image)--if we had bread.........this is what happens....and actually typing this has me laughing.  Wondering if I have a box of Kraft Mac and Cheese in the pantry?????

Most of the Successful Menu items are Vegetables so I have lots of things to eat.  No worries.

It's very cold here in Maine....even with the sun shining.  In the 20's overnight.  I have on wool socks, corduroy long pants and a fleece pullover over a thermal long sleeved shirt.  I have a down TV watching cover for when I settle back on to the couch.  I'll be cozy.  

It's 33 degrees outdoors and 70 inside the house (with the sun shining on the temperature machine)..

Today's book is a "leftover" from yesterday......Meg Cabot's No Judgment.... I'm midway. She's about to decide to get on the small scooter and go check on the guy- no cell or landline service after the hurricane hit over night.. worried about him.

Soccer (British) is set to begin anytime now...two matches.  Back to back.  Manchester City and Leeds coming up in a few minutes after all the "chat" the Brits are having and I can't understand any of it.  The two talking guys are wearing extremely TIGHT fitting suits as usual..  Look incredibly uncomfortable.  I noticed the NFL Talking Heads also in one size too small suits the other day...and Brady wearing glasses.

I deleted the blogs "formerly" on Typepad....in my sidebar...I do get something every so often from Jude...as an email.  Grace might need help setting up something new....hope someone steps up.  If it was me- and the Computer Engineer was still in California-- I would want someone to help ME out in this situation.......sigh Winter is here already in Maine.....I need a second cuppa hot coffee.

Still Friday the 28th.... Another Pomegranate

 

Image only- (from a magazine) I bought this year's Pom Model for my collection of annual Christmas Pomegranate  drawings.  Some are painted...etc..., some with conte crayon....Some just colored pencils.. One or two are watercolors..It's a thing I do that is artistic and seasonal.   I'd love to do a woodcut but--the blood letting deters me.  I'd also like to make a Lino print.  Cut into a soft surface and then print.  The cutting tool is very very sharp........

In the days and weeks ahead you will get to see whatever drawing, painting or whatever I make......I have all of December.. And I have all the older ones.  Which could be used here...????  For December Post Art.

Son is making pie crust and we have to wait 2 hours before it's ready to roll out- "at least two hours". He made it last year and it was the most wonderful homemade pie crust.... ever.  Hydrated.

Daughter is adding 100 colored lights (each) to two large 48 inch wreaths....eventually three wreaths that size will be on my front porch to bedazzle the neighbors.  And assist planes landing at the Executive Airport next door. (hopefully joking).. The center wreath has its weight in light bulbs on it.  The side ones will have less??????

We were happy to have found a pre-roasted half turkey breast at the grocery store today...... 

We didn't get sent home with a plate of leftovers.....I did ask for the soup recipe...we had soup as a starter. It was very very good...  I am probably repeating myself so I will stop.

Daily Notes for Friday, November 28th. Cold and Damp this morning.

 no image.....I'm tired...it's cold and dark and I should still be in bed... asleep.

Cincinnati Won.  Burroughs is working on his anger issues for the turf toe.  Baltimore-- I usually enjoy watching them play but last night was awful.  The fans left the stadium before 4th quarter.  Previous to the game I watched a Hallmark Movie....but perhaps it was a movie that just SEEMED like Hallmark???? There was snow, a blind child and people falling out of a boat into the cold water... and the happy ending... Not much dialogue.  Lots of long stares.

We had a lovely Thanksgiving at our neighbor's house...two other neighborhood guests who were delightful.  The table conversation was a nice change for me- I had only one glass of wine.

We are doing some grocery shopping today.....and the Library visit to pick up and drop off books. Another quiet day...I am hoping for some British Soccer but.......

Well, cereal and the newspaper....we didn't get one yesterday...so today's will be packed with invites for shopping.   I need socks and oatmeal and a cup of hot coffee.....it's all downhill from now.....

Daily Notes on Thursday November 27th.....Sunshine here in Maine and 44 degrees

 Well, here it is finally.....the Big Day.......

Watched some British Soccer with daughter yesterday...she played soccer in college.... I think she even got a red card????  and I am guessing quite a few yellow ones.

Anyway.......I've had my oatmeal, there is no morning newspaper, I am NOT turning on the TV because I do not want to see ONE SPECK of NEWS. ......I have a book that I paused reading and should finish it.  Before starting something new.

I'll be ordering library books today.... but doubt any will be there on Friday...I have a few favorites to reread on Holidays.  No idea when we are walking over to the neighbors for dinner... but it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood....today.

Best Wishes to all of you reading this post- Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Daily Notes for Wednesday November 26th. Dark, Damp and Dismal.

 We have Gravy today.....as an image....why is there never enough gravy???????

1.  Cold chill on back of my neck the morning.... furnace is now starting up....

2.  Watched Law and Order yesterday and ignored Slow Burn- the book I am reading.

3.  I'm actually hungry and want to eat breakfast so this will be a very short post.  Three minutes that it takes the microwave to make oatmeal and another 2 minutes for it to "setup" and then I am hitting publish.

4.  Law and Order yesterday was NOT as good as I remember.....I will have to seriously consider Netflix..I refuse to go over to the dark side of the Big A....even though they have purchased everything available and have it ALL....right there- ready to go...

5.  Microwave is finished....you and I have only a few minutes left together....

6. Slept well on my freshly made bed....fluffy pillows etc.

7. The oatmeal is ready, sugared and surrounded by a pool of cold milk... have a lovely day... I will be watching Law and Order.....or reading Slow Burn.....I think the part I skipped is the Slow Burn part...

Daily Notes for Tuesday, November 25th. Dismal outside...and 43 degrees

 I don't have an image for you....

1.  Have the washing machine going- finally changed the sheets on my bed..was procrastinating ..OMG...looking for fresh sheets and pillow cases in the packed FULL linen closet....I had a NIGHTMARE thought that I had sent my own King sheets and pillow cases to Georgia.... by mistake.

2.  It took awhile to calm down and actually make the bed... the top sheet looks too small. The pillow cases were FINALLY found under so much stuff...the bed is made.  I wish I was a Drinking Person but I am actually worse- A Sweet Eating Person.  Or they are the same addictive persuasion?  anyway...I'd be eating.

3. Addiction runs in the family DNA.  Deeply embedded in the DNA.

4.  My only addiction besides candy and cookies is sleeping.  When things go sideways I climb into bed and try NOT to EVER get out.  I slept all day when we moved to Germany- after getting the kids off to school. All Day.  Then some nosey woman from Texas rang the doorbell for like 30 minutes and said- take a shower, get dressed we are going to lunch...she also mentioned her kids in the car being hungry and now very very cranky.  I showered, dressed, went to lunch and somehow got signed up for the next day's BOWLING League.  And, I was okay from then on...still cranky but awake and dressed. And NOT at home.  A few years later I was elected President of the American Women's Club.and my husband gifted me a Gucci Briefcase.

5.  It still feels like a MYSERY to me....how my Life evolved and then just stopped.. 

6.   I have an email and som says daughter is coming over to do something....no idea what...perhaps the False Indigo will get chopped down?????? or pulled out...  no idea.

7. Amazon allowed me to see the Romance Book Offerings again. Then cut me off but by then I had run thru what was interesting.   Four large index cards of author and titles.  December and January are covered.

Daily Notes from Maine on a Cloudy Monday ......

 Had to work on the centering..

1.   Yes, I need help.  Like everyday.  

2.   The book I ordered is at the library and I intend to coax my son into picking it up when he goes out for LUNCH. It's the one with the woman with pink hair.   I had to move the Pencil Sharpener...he clipped it with his hip....it's now safely installed to my left.  No one walks over there.  Sunday Pizza was as wonderful as usual.  

3.  Football.   I tried...but it was not that interesting.   I did watch the Vegas Car Race.   Beginning to end.

4.  I am going to remove the border on the rectangular thing...it isn't working...and nothing else works as the next to it border.   So it has to GO.  And it's a rectangle not the usual SQUARE so that might also need to be corrected. So much for thinking I can be "flexible".....also missing British Soccer.

5.  Reading Slow Burn by Julie Garwood.  So far the lead woman character has just missed being blown up by a bomb-- TWICE.  Other than the violence and the sex- it would make a fantastic Hallmark Mystery Movie...and I say that just because I am a visual person and can SEE how it would play out on the screen. All the characters staring at each other..........and the guy brought pizza. Garwood's men always bring food.

6.   Well, I need breakfast....and I need socks (ankles are getting chilled) and then...well I have a few Suduko Puzzles that are stalled and perhaps I can add a number or two to them and then come back here and read my book.  I could even drive myself to the Library and get my book....No.  Not ready for driving. Still WAY TOO JUMPY.  And my attention span?????  Wow.

Daily Notes for Sunday, November 23rd. Sunshine here in Maine. 39 degrees.

Green Bean Casserole.  One of my favorite parts of Thanksgiving dinner and leftovers.  I like the thinner French cut beans and not the chunky ones in this image.. I like lots of the onions on top...like this.

1.  Furnace is running and running and running.....trying to get us up to 65 degrees. Might need to upgrade it to a larger unit.  I was short of cash when we needed to replace the original boiler.  REALLY short of cash.  Like worried when bills needed to be paid.  Long ago....but I remember how that felt. I got a job. Paid the bills.  Moving to Maine was a Financial Disaster for us. Two kids in College.  Etc.

2.  I am having lukewarm coffee and.... just warmed it up a second time.

3.  Watched the race in Las Vegas last night... lucky for me the Hallmark Movie I was watching was a repeat.  Ended at midnight. Or around midnight.

4.  Today's Suduko wasn't great....I'll give it another go later...

5.  I read a book.   Now have to choose one for today...possibly two....just to keep me occupied.  I'm figgeting.....happens when I get bored... which is why all the pencils got sharpened.  I might choose a series- that would mean several books from the bookcase..........or I could read the ONE that makes me cry.  Every Single Time.  I try not to read it.   I also could sew strips of cloth into squares....

6.   We'll make pizza at 4.   Watch some football.  Get thru the day.  That will be enough. Will have to be enough.  Furnace stopped running...it's quiet.
 

Daily Notes Written Very Early in the Morning. Saturday, November 22nd.

 Alcohol free lemon tonic something or other.  Need a preserved lemon to make it.  And olives. I have it here this morning because I just like the WAY It Looks.!!!!   In an alternative LIFE I would make this. And have one in the late afternoon before thinking about what to have for dinner.  Like people my age do. In An Alternative Life.

1.  I am re-reading  Meg Cabot's No Offense. And now I want to read the previous book. No Judgement. The title was in tiny tiny print on the back cover of this book.  I am going to order it.  Next up for reading is the Little Beach Street Bakery.   In Love with Love this week.

2.   I saw some British Soccer in the tv listing for this afternoon.....so I am set for the afternoon.  I have cloth strips to sew and my down lap blanket to keep me warm.   It's cloudy and looks damp outside. I tried Hallmark yesterday and lasted only 5 minutes.....I want to watch the long  American Revolution series on PBS but...it's too much (sadness) for me right now so it is being recorded..   I had ZERO Law and Order to fall back on...so I set a long list of them to record.  The red light is on so I think they are being recorded.   

(one thing I got right....when I thought for one semester of being a History Major....)

3.  I do LOVE my TiVo. Best investment I ever made.   I did also like Netflix when I had that.... cancelled it when I went back to WORK full time.... the greenhouse job was strenuous.  Lifting carrying etc.  I got home and just wanted a long hot shower and a nap.  I could not stand, walk, carry and lift for 40 hours a week NOW.  NOT AT ALL, if I am honest with my self.

4.  I've hit bottom on my first cup of tea for the day- need a second... My Son is correct- I am much more coherent WHEN I am well hydrated.  4 ounces of water many times thru out the day keeps Joanne from wondering where she left her socks (and she is wearing them). and DID she have breakfast??????  And not forgetting to eat LUNCH.  I need to fill my glass a third time.  Soccer!!!!!!

Daily Notes on a Sunday Friday in November. The 21st.

 Baked Sweet Potato with walnuts.   I should have nuts in the fridge to add to food.... Today is grocery day so why not buy some nuts????   And that might be cheese melting in the center?????  Bake the sweet potatoes with the Sunday Pizza. It worked out last time.

1.  My books are in the Library Return Bag.....I have ordered a few that are ready for pickup. I don't have a good feeling about them.....I might not like them........walking the stacks- is pretty useless. I'll read things in my own bookcase I guess.  Second reading of Every Tom Dick and Harry was even better than the first reading.

2.  My Lunch Buddy and I never did get to have lunch.  She is still driving husband to appointments.

3.  I found a package of Thanksgiving cards in the bottom drawer- was looking for art paper.  Did find a small pad of watercolor paper- postcard sized....good enough.  I do love painting.

4.  Mended the hole in daughter's sweater...I didn't wait- as soon as she walked out of the house with her brother I went looking for black yarn.  She found boots she likes at the store she took her brother to..... and they were her size and on sale....she was very very happy. I think they also had lunch.

5.  Well. I have to get going and eat breakfast so my blood sugar doesn't tank....

Daily Notes- Thursday, November 20th. Sunshine and 42 degrees in Maine.

 I recall making one of these...once. It wasn't fun.

Library tomorrow....hopefully some books....that I actually enjoy reading....the ones I picked last week. were not so great.   I'm not sure it's the books...it could be ME.

1.  Nothing much going on... five flies on Monday but haven't seen any since.

2.  Daughter and Son have gone on a roadtrip.....for something-  would be nice if they brought home cookies.  For me.  I did get a locally famous Jelly Donut earlier in the week ...was fantastic.  Son said it was the last one- the Donut Makers go to Florida for the Winter.  Every Year.  Before Thanksgiving.

3.  I found my scrappy recipe cards for Microwave "cake" made in a coffee cup.  Looking forward to making one. Not today....Today I still have grocery food to eat....before Friday. 

4.  The Comey Comedy Show is a DELIGHT.  Who knew (gasp) Trump "lawyers" would have so much trouble with the LAW.  Understanding it.  Following it....etc.  This is what happens when you surround yourself with butt kissers??????  Who will ever hire any of them after all this is flushed????

5.  I need a scarf- a chill around my neck....I have a sweater to mend...daughter's.  Black yarn... well, best get to it....and then a book???? or some Law and Order (more likely)...the Hallmark is a sad disappointment.  I've outgrown it.....never saw that happening.  Wow....maturity can be a real bummer.

Daily Notes- Wednesday. November 19th. sunshine and 41 degrees

 I lost the name of this pie but-- talk amongst yourselves and give it a title.   Looks like a Brownie base (crust) and then chocolate ganache topped with whipped cream.   Has my name all over it.  Joanne. I wish it was here......

1.  Well, I paid bills this morning...and I have my fingers crossed I got them in the right envelopes.  My attention span is getting so narrow....that it's hardly any attention at all. Perhaps time to hand bill paying over to someone else.  Or have them check things before I seal the envelopes......

2.  Ironed wrinkled fabric and cut strips to add to the rectangle shaped "whatever" I am sewing....by hand... It's here near where I sit and perhaps I will actually add the strips.....it's NOT a tiny 8 inch square.... I thought about using the sewing machine...for about 10 seconds..... I did use the iron, ironing board and the spray starch.  Amazing.  I really do love eight inch squares.  Actually Nine inch ones.

3.  The Soccer players look exhausted.  The fans in the stadiums look exhausted. World Cup.

4.  FINALLY made the next pot of Joanne's Vegetable Bean Soup.....then had a bowl.  And then another. It could use more salt but then....it would be too salty.  I tried explaining that to my son- he said salt was a good thing....we decided to disagree.   I added sliced large Brussels Sprouts this time.. nice addition.  Bit of "cabbage".  I'm thinking some grated Parm in the bowl- would add a salty-ness????

5.   My hair is "doing things"---like making curls.  It's why I skipped my last hair cut appointment.  Curls. When you are born with naturally curly hair- go with it...... I am seeing a number of women on tv- Hallmark-- with naturally curling white hair...NO hot curling iron.- (so Hallmark) and thought "why not me?"  It's still quite short but another few weeks and we'll see how it goes. My Winter Project-- perfect timing if I need to cover the project with a HAT.  (in public) or (in the SNOW)

6.  Library has requested the return of several books....I plan to keep one of them- for another week. The others are already in the return bag- the bag Deb L sent me.  Which goes to the Library with me every week......all year long.  In warm weather I wear the matching work shirt.

Daily Notes for Tuesday, November 18th...Sunshine and 42 degrees today.

 Dairy Fat- Good or Evil??????   My milk is whole milk.  I use Butter and not mechanically made "margarine". My Cheese is not processed hopefully..  I'm Elderly and Disease Free.  Knock Wood.

I prefer less than five items on the ingredient list on ANY food I eat..  Cheese should be cheese.  Butter should be butter and Milk should be milk.  I read the list in the tiny print- if it looks like Chemistry- I TRY NOT to buy it.  Even if I WANT it.  Cookies are an exception. And Dark Chocolate. Very dark.

1.   Now that that is off my To Do List-  I'll get to other stuff.  Why is CNN showing 9-11?  I was changing channels (terrible football game) and there was the first plane hitting the World Trade Center. I wasn't expecting it and ...so I cried.  Recalled the Fall of Marigolds book...And the woman watching the plane hit as her husband waited for her in the restaurant  Windows on the World.  

2.  Five additional black flies yesterday.

3.  Found another fabric to add to the orange square.... it's in the very tiny center square....so a repeat. I always like a repeat.  Connie, if only there was a table in my house that deserved a runner!!!!

4.  The book I opened to the very center and started reading was not the book I thought it was but is a book I have read before...... and I had given up on Hallmark and Law and Order.  And CNN had made me cry.. And I will likely give up on this book as well.  I've read it before- more than once.  Always by mistake.  It's never clear WHY he is attracted to her...so as a Reader I am wondering why????  For the entire book.

5.  Daughter is on repeat with stores selling soup....which I should be buying...I have soup that I make myself.  It's simple and easy and not great.  It's soup.  I'm content.  

6.   Soon I will move on to Toasted Cheese Sandwiches.  With extra pickles.  Toasted and not "fried in butter" Cheese Sandwiches.  And then?  Not a clue....I do have things that I could put in the Air Fryer....and eat those...but easy enough to just fry them up in the frying pan.   Or leave them in the freezer.

7.   And even at that...my Life is MORE interesting than it has been in decades.  REALLY.

Daily Notes for Monday, November 17th. Clouds and temps around 39 degrees.

 I have ALL of these.   I found the Williams Sonoma catalogs on the Internet this morning.  Same block but not the same knives.  I use them all.   My son's knife block sits next to mine.

1.  I made Strawberry Rhubarb Jam yesterday and it needs a bit more thickening...I don't have pectin but information says I can use lemon or the peels from an apple.  To get the mixture thicker.

2.  Watched Curling yesterday the regular, always wins USA team, did not win.  A new team won. And they deserved to win.  Great Job.   I also watched some European Soccer- World Cup.  Norway and Italy. Norway, as one team member said, got fed up with being pushed around and scored two goals. That was that.  Big tall guy with his long white hair in a bun (Manchester United)...  and that happy note ended my day yesterday.  I may or may not have Soccer set to record.  This was a first for Norway in World Cup.

3.  Oatmeal this morning and more recipes from my Master Gardening Partner.  She must have a different system on her computer and phone..  Not MAC.  Nothing translates as being "easy"...she mentions a "jump to recipe" thing I should press...well, I saw nothing like that on my screen.  And, honestly, I don't need the recipes.

4.  I never think cooking with vegetables actually needs a recipe...they all taste great together in my opinion.  I chop and stir in a pan and eat.  Add water if I want soup.  Which reminds me that I have one jar of soup left....for lunch today.  I might be wrong- NO SOUP.   I need to make more. I do have salad greens and grocery store made chicken nuggets- crisp those up in the toaster oven and dinner is served.

5.  While watching American Football (Chiefs and Broncos I think) I sewed strips to a large center square and now have something larger than usual that needs spray starch and a hot iron.  Not a clue as to how to move forward with this cloth...after I iron it.  I don't need potholders.  I don't need placemats. I sure don't need quilts.......and I sure as heck have TONS of fabric......

Daily Notes on a Damp Cloudy 41 Degree Day here in Coastal Maine. House temp is 65. Heating Oil is extremely expensive this year.

 Something colorful.   I noticed the flowers at the grocery store on Friday but nothing as bright as these. And it'a actually pretty dark in my living room right now...I have one lamp turned on and will do another and be right back.  Yes, that's much better.

1.  One black fly and son "reported in" yesterday that he had flattened one on the front door glass...so added that to my totals.  Five yesterday down from a high of 15 on Wednesday.   One so far today.

2.  The numbering helps one reader of this blog post keep track of subject changes. I do what I can to keep the small number of you all happy.

3.   Soccer yesterday and - World Cup behavior (of one game) was unsportsmanlike.  I might have given out a second red card. To the guy who got the first one. And I would have had words with him.... sorry excuse for sports conduct.  The Ref usually refuses to talk to the guys. Just holds the red card in their face. The guy argues and he holds up a second?????  Or just escorts him off the field????

4.  I noticed a missing button on my very old sweater (during the soccer argument)- one of the sweaters rejuvenated by the cold water gentle cycle in my new-ish washing machine.  I went shopping for a button in the button box by the sewing machine. I also had my Grandmother's Button Collection (from after she died).  Could NOT find the same size but did find an almost color match- larger button and it's now on the sweater.  While sewing the button I enjoyed looking at all the variegated colors of the mending....holding the sweater together.  Wondering what "mending" is holding me together.

5.  My daughter has my Grandmother's  Vintage Treadle Sewing Machine at her house...as a table----I doubt she will ever use it to sew anything.. it's a really old Singer and could sew thru layers of wool or leather. What a Machine!!!!!  It could also sew right thru your finger nails...... My Bernina can also do that and I did sew right into my finger nail.  Getting the needle out was worse than it going in.

6.  I need to reheat my coffee and settle into my space on the couch....pull the down lap quilt over myself.

Daily Notes- Saturday. November 15th. Sunshine here and 35 degrees.

Okay, images of Winter Seed Sowing...  top image is of seeds (way more than needed) on top of a nice potting soil mix...second photo is of the MANY seedlings produced over the Winter.  Notice the little weed seedlings between the bricks??????  This might be how the idea was discovered.

NOW...when I was teaching I always suggested using clear plastic milk bottles.  With the top half cut open with a hinge uncut so the top could be folded back giving you space for the seed sprinkling. Also making it easier for snow, rain and sleet to moisten the soil and the seeds.  I'm not even sure those exist in these days of recycling.  But the black plastic pots are just as nice.

You sprinkle the seeds on the soil and then put the pots out on the back deck or the front walkways or up against the house or foundation or where ever they won't get knocked over.... but will get some Sun and will get rained on or snowed on.  No need to check on them.......unless you worry about some animals knocking them over.....????

We usually were growing perennials.  Plants that came back year after year all on their own...  Seeds and seedlings that have more gumption regarding staying alive in unpleasant weather.   Herbs?  Yes.

Okay the Master Gardener in me is finished for the day.....

No British Soccer on USA Today... Gigantic Bummer.  I have books and I once again.....travelled to t the sewing room looking for a certain color of fabric with black dots......as FATE would have it- the light brown with tan dots was actually a much better choice........for ONLY one specific square....but one is better than NONE.

I made Rhubarb Strawberry Jam yesterday using the frozen fruit, sugar and water.  Set it to simmer gently for a long time..... some pectin would have helped but...all fruit has some in its DNA so...it looks and tastes great.
 

Daily Notes from Coastal Maine- sunshine and 42 degrees. All the snow melted.

 I was interested in these small items.  At one time I had a hand carved collection of these...it was fun until I needed stitches.  One knife slip and...well, not fun.  ER visit. Stitches on fingers- very painful.

And I had places and pages to add little stamp images... it's fascinating and sad to see how narrow my Life is now.  And how open and full of things it once was......now everything is boxed up and well, Life goes on.....and then it's over.

Today is Grocery and Library Day.....  I haven't ordered any books...from other Libraries.  I still have some from last week that I haven't read as yet....and the bookcase is full so there is always something. To Read. I am keeping the two Lipman books for another week....like having some extra dark chocolate stashed.

The Black Fly count is diminishing.  I had five or six the day before yesterday and then none (or one) I can't recall.   I watched NEWS....OMG...... I had to stop.....  "hell in an hand basket"...I did LOVE watching him sleep thru a meeting .....on camera.

Daily Notes for Thursday November 13th. Cloudy and Damp here in Maine,

 I think this might be a ZEN FOOD CHART.   Oats, eggplant, beans, and tofu.

It's also the last of the new images in the right hand side of the screen where I keep things..... had a second chance at the one slow moving black fly of the day (so far). Got it.  FIFTEEN YESTERDAY. Yes, 15 flies yesterday - an all time high...

I accidentally watched some news out of Washington DC.  Super big mistake.

1.  I had to wait to see the newspaper to know what day of the week it was.....losing my grip.

2.  No Soccer.....Law and Order episodes get deleted as soon as I recall the episode details.... I've watched them all so many times..... I watched 15 minutes of Karate Kid.  Then moved on to Hallmark and  The Angel Tree- GAG.  And then I turned off the TV and started in on Ms Demeanor by Elinor Lipman.  I was super happy to have two Lipman books back to back.  Every Tom, Dick and Harry was a delight.  And I always love Ms Demeanor.

3.  I went into the mostly destroyed Fabric Room- tubs are everywhere etc.  I can get them off the shelving but no way can I lift them back up..... I was looking for a specific color and pattern ...I knew I had that particular fabric in every color variation it was printed in..... I did find yellow.  And eventually pink. I also have it in pale blue and dark blue... and a very lovely pale green.. and a dark green. If I work hard enough I will just make a pile of this particular fabric on the shelf....not in a tub.... and then in a tub when I finish this project....at the pace I am going..that will be never.  I have to make several of each color....sign... I have already run out of a particular  fabric that looked fantastic in the first square I made.  I have enough to add it to one or possibly two more squares...then I have to find something else.

4.  The  prompt for this project was using up what I have and actually like working with.  Dots.  I was tempted to just make the finished square (3) into potholders....but I noticed the gifted ones- are still in pristine condition in the homes they went to.......not used.  The ones in my house get dirty.   This would all be finished if I used the sewing machine....I am hand sewing because I actually prefer it.

Daily Notes for Wednesday, November 12th,

 No time or patience to add a photo.

1.  The Dead Fly totals... Sunday -Eight   Monday - Thirteen . Tuesday- Eight. Wednesday (today) so far.. Five...day is young.  Son read something about a bowl or cup with apple cider vinegar...the flies are attracted and etc.... so Cold Weather Black Flies in the House is "a thing".  Not just ME.

2.   I have the heat going and warming the large spaces up a bit....I have on a fleece pullover- daughter gave me two- she bought for herself and then didn't like them....not loose enough.  I'm not fond of the colors. (fruit pop)- but they are warm and light weight.  And V-neck collars so nothing tight around my neck. Do not like that.  I read it's a "past life " thing.  Creepy.

3.  I managed to get the recycling collected before going to bed....  For this morning.

4.  I have sorted piles of cloth strips for the making of more squares.....I just NEED something good to watch on TV while I SEW.  The Blue and Purple piles have the most likely probability of a really EXCELLENT SQUARE.  Though the orange pile is looking pretty great also.   The Pink pile needs significant additions- weak as it is now. but I have plenty of magenta in the tubs.

5.  I have over a dozen Law and Order episodes lined up in the TiVo.  I watched 10 minutes of two of them and deleted both. Then stopped as once I get in the delete mode- I am not responsible for my choices. ( I'm in a NEGATIVE MIND SPACE right now) I did watch two Hallmark Christmas Movies....all the way thru....some gagging but not as much as usual.

6.  A CATALOG arrived in the mail yesterday...I was BEYOND EXCITED.  I used to get so many and lots of them were cooking related.....the one I got yesterday was okay...not great...but just getting it was so WOW. LLBean no longer sends me catalogs....which is sad.... I'd like a Cooking Supply Catalog- even though I own so much already.   Well, that it from here in Maine this morning...we had some snow on the ground from overnight. But now the grass is green again.

7. Managed to change channels at the exact right time for the very end of Sixteen Candles.  I love the end of that movie when she points to herself and says "me?" and he nods "yes, you!!!"

Daily Notes- Tuesday November 11. Cold and Damp here in Maine- 39 degrees and the sound of the furnace going here in Maine.

 I went looking for an image of a fat lazy black fly.....because they keep gliding slowly past me to the front window where I use the swatter to kill them.  Eight on Monday and eight more yesterday.

Internet says the flies come into the house as the air outside gets cold and then....when we turn up the heat (furnace) here in the house they decide to fly around......slowly. Until I smash them FLAT. I was going to have an image of a fat black fly up top but couldn't find one that wasn't DISGUSTING.

Better News: invited down the street for Thanksgiving Dinner... always a nice warm welcome.....this will be our third Thanksgiving with this lovely neighborhood family.  Son and I had been giving some thought to what to do for ourselves for that meal.  We might still make a few easy things for leftover meals.  I always want to bake a pie and he always says no.

1.  Yesterday and today's book is Every Tom, Dick and Harry by Elinor Lipman.  It's a new book but my second time checking it out.  If I liked it once I'll like it twice (or more)......I never read this author but now that I am ancient- I like her QUITE a LOT.  Plan to buy the book.  It's light hearted and the romance is between older people who liked each in high school but never dated.... I liked a few guys in high school but way too shy and backward to talk to any of them.   Never asked out on a date.

2.  I think we all know why I read romances...now,

3.  Newspaper is so VERY VERY Disturbing......America needs a HERO.  We should all sing that song. While they are out with their No King's banners.   Sing "We Need a Hero"

4.  That's all I've got.....A Dead Fly Count Down.   Needing a Hero sung really LOUD..  And a Good Romance with a very hilarious but happy ending.  And a Frozen Yogurt Bar in the freezer just in case things go south..  And perhaps some Antiques Roadshow.????   Old Lady Stuff.

Daily Notes- Monday, November 10th. Cloudy 51 degrees and 99% humidity. It's been raining.

 Acorns.  None this year.  

1.   I've written a check for the one bill on my desk..... sorted out my checkbook-  double checking myself.

2.   I'll be finishing off my romance book.... and I am tempted to dig out a few other Sarah Adams books from the bookcase.  The motorcycle riding teacher??????  I do enjoy the Hermit and the country music star one also......

3.   I watched two Hallmark Christmas Movies....old favorites.  The Round and Round one is fun. The same day over and over and over again.  I also watched a really vintage one- Cowboy and Astronomer on a bus to New York City.  I liked the actor /cowboy.

4.   I smashed 8 flies in the living room....that time of year again.  Number eight this morning....asleep on the front window.  Or half dead,  I just wish I knew where they came from.....  my son says they are in the living room because I eat food in the living room.  If that was true the flies would be circling me and not the front window which is no where near me and my food crumbs.  And flies like blood...not cookies.

5.   I'm going to finish reading my book.....watch some Antiques Roadshow and heat up a bowl of soup in the afternoon.  And probably eat it while watching the recorded Soccer.  My cell phone is reminding me to take an umbrella with me if I go outside.  I am not going outside.

Daily Notes for Sunday, November 9th. Clouds, Dampness and 41 degrees here in Maine.

Winter seed planting.  Enlarge the image, print and save... AND get started with Winter Seed Sowing.

I taught classes on this process for most of the 10 years I worked at the Greenhouse.  It works and the resulting seedlings are very very STURDY.  Getting covered in snow does NOT bother them....

1.  I was talking to someone- at the Library--- A well liked former co-worker- and recalled ten years working at the Library and then ten more at the Greenhouse.  Customer Service...Talking all day.  And here I am at home talking to NO ONE  all day.  Well, I admit to talking to myself out loud when no one is around. Do you do that when you are alone??????  That co- worker is now over 100 years old.  Got her Library Science degree in her 80's.....  still working. Never too late to change lanes. Use your blinkers.

2.  Son has killed one large fat black fly and I have flattened a second one.  Just like the past two winters.. they get in here some how.  EIGHT last year.

3.  After the Soccer I could NOT find one decent thing to watch on tv. Old Law and Order  episodes are set to record sometime today or tonight. While I watch Football. And wait to make Pizza.

4.  The Computer Engineer did some changing around of things on my TV and TiVo. Interesting.  I haven't a clue how all this works but my desktop was also switched to fiber optics (???) when I got the new IMac.   Now my TV and Tivo.

5.  Reading a nice romance and the guy just changed the oil in the gal's car.  Yep...that would have won me over. 100%.

Daily Notes on a Chilly, Cloudy Saturday Morning in Maine- Nov 8th.

 Chocolate Pecan Pie. Yes, please.

We are nearing the end of Pie Week.  Unless I find some additional images on the Internet.

1.  English Soccer is on this afternoon...two games back to back.  Life is good.

2.  Yesterday's book- The Off Limits Rule by Sarah Adams.  I'm still reading it... there were things on tv that caused me to put the book dawn.  And today the Soccer...so I will try and get pages read before the soccer starts.

3.  One was outer space views of Earth...I love that stuff.

4.  The washing machine washed sweaters came out...marvelously clean, soft and the same size as when they went in....no shrink.... this old woman has learned something NEW.

5. Social Security is wanting me to view my 2026 account.......they do what they want to do...I have zero control so why look before I have to???? won't change anything.

6.  Son is trying to switch my internet provider to the Tivo... Already switched my computer when I got the new Mac.  I believe he was successful.

Daily Notes- Friday, November 7th. Mild Sunshine and 41 degrees.

 Titled Junk-Berry Pie.

I like the oozey filling.  And the vanilla ice cream.

1.   Things are moving FASTER around here....today is Library and Grocery Store...I have to work on the shopping list.  I need a new bag of frozen mixed vegetables for my next pot of soup; coffee creamer; I have two apples left from last week's shopping...wasn't in the mood for apples got three bananas.  Husband always liked seedless grapes....I like plums.  No Romaine lettuce...a recall?

2.   The large batch of books from "other libraries" ...not so great.  I might keep the ones I haven't tried for another week...just to see...and in case I don't find anything for this week.  

3.   I was just scouting my bookcase for what I might want to find to day at the Library.

4.  The Sun is shining....

5.  Addendum:  I forgot to pick up two books so Son offered to go back to the Library for them...while I followed daughter's rules and washed sweaters- husband's very. nice ones- cold gentle...my washer had cold and I used delicate.  They look wonderful.  I am going to do my own tomorrow- I have one on right now. Not wanting to take it off. Colder here in Maine. Today.

Daily Notes- Lunch Date got cancelled- Flu or the COVID...New Voting location. Germs.

 Buttermilk Pie Image.  I just like the way it looks... and I bet it's delicious.

1.  Yes, Voting took my Lunch Buddy down.   I always do Absentee (at Town Hall) because there are no crowds and I can use disinfection wipes on my hands after.

2.   I made Vegetable Bean Soup again... made a mistake and opened a can of garbanzo beans.  Instead of white beans,...it will be okay.  I gave it a taste test after it cooled down and before it went into the fridge... Tasty..Good Enough.  I added macaroni....the pasta ....

3.  The book for yesterday and NOT today- Take Me Home....author is Melanie Sweeney.  It has started to DRAG as I near the 3/4 part.  I've started to not really care what happened to these two people.  I even stopped reading and I watched 30 minutes of a Hallmark Christmas Movie.   I've seriously outgrown Hallmark.. and need to delete the movies from the TiVo.  Even Snow Bride made me cringe. And I loved that one. Well, the end was still nice. It was actually a good kiss. Without even being a kiss.

4.  Wrote a check for my "extra" tooth cleaning...insurance only covers two and this was number three. My Dental Gal and I were "seeing what would happen" and now we know....  My next "illegal" dental cleaning (number 4) is on December 15th.  At 79 I'm rather fond of my teeth.  And gums. I come from a long line of old people with false teeth because they didn't go to the dentist.

5.  Well, I need to warm up my coffee and choose a new book for today and put yesterday's book in the bag unfinished.  I checked the sport's page and no soccer today.  So it's Law and Order reruns for the WIN.

6.   Keep thinking  the Garden Fairy will show up to help me empty and haul the planters back to the Compost Bin area.  But MIA.

Daily Notes on Wednesday, November 5th. How many are actually reading this post????

Meyer-Lemon Meringue.  Minus the Meyer when my mom made this pie and she always added coconut to the top.  I NEVER made this pie because husband didn't like it....that says so much about the relationship. 

1.   Lunch Buddy Lunch tomorrow.   We have SO MUCH to talk about....

2.   I finished the Seat Filler and spent some time looking for my "book notebook" filled with book titles I like. I just found it and had to do some clean up and then find a rubber band. Good Times.

3.   I finally realized it was November and changed the desk top calendar.  Five days late.  BUT...I am very very "drifty" these days...just sort of wandering from one thing to another not actually settling down until later in the afternoon.  There is no British Soccer to stabilize the afternoons.  Who knew British Soccer would stabilize my DAYS?????

4.   Have bills to pay today...checks to write.  The Daily Suduko was beyond my capabilities.

5.  The Annual Flower Containers are still on the front sidewalk.... I managed to do all that I am capable of doing at my age.  I did drag them out to the sidewalk in the Spring but they were empty. They are NOT empty so..too heavy for me.

6.  Sidetracked by book lists and Robo calls.   And now to write checks for two bills....and perhaps re-heat my cup of coffee.....again....  I hope you day is more eventful than mine will be- mine is just more of the same- endlessly.

Daily Notes- Tuesday. November 4th. Clouds in My Coffee. Sunshine and 51 degrees.

 Gonna have a series of images of Pie.  This one  Dutch Apple.  Topped with vanilla ice cream.  Images and NO ACTUAL PIES.......

1.  I have apples for my fruit this week but only three and they aren't Pie Apples or Baked Apples..  The Sweet Potatoes are a delightfully filling lunch....with butter and shredded Parm.

2.  I finally have my socks on.. I had to remind myself where I had left them.....sometimes on the table, or the couch or back in the bathroom etc.  I should try stuffing them in my pant's pocket.

3.  I refilled my daily pill dispenser.  Need to order Statin this week. or next. Or right now.

4.  Oil was delivered but no paper bill....so UGH!!!!- I HAD to rethink how to get one printed off on the copier....I did it....and for some reason it did double side which is just so incredible that it can do that. Like it turns itself over all by it self or something.  I know it doesn't turn itself over.....I know.

5.  I remembered to collect and collate the garbage and recycling (yesterday) ready for Tuesday AM pickup. We even had a clear plastic bag of shredded paper.....my daughter's gift of her shredder is on a "learning curve" with both me and my Son.....and it's quite noisy. And if a machine could have an attitude this one DOES.  My son even walked away and looked back over his shoulder at the machine....half expecting it to do something.  

6.  Son has gone out for lunch and is getting his hair cut (shaved) as it got away with itself and I was thinking he was going to revert to long curls yet again.  He's got the most amazing hair.  Mine refuses to curl as much as his does.  I get waves...... 

7.  I am going to dig around in the secondary closet to see if I have any additional fleece or wool sweater/tops.  I'm wearing my 50% patched red wool cardigan today, yesterday and the day before...over a thermal long sleeved shirt.  Still cold....I need something around my neck.  My hands are cold but that has been normal since I was born.  Cold hands and feet... Daughter gave me two fleece pullovers and I wear them most days.  It's enough. But there SHOULD be another sweater.  Grey cowl neck with more patches than sweater.  It's lovely and soft. And Missing.

9.  I recorded some Law and Order for today.   I have books to read so I am planning to do that FIRST.. No Soccer today.  Soccer really helps fill the long afternoons.  Not today.  I have scraps and strips to make a blue square like the orange one.  I could also try and put together...nope- only blue. I had thought I had brought out SOME green.  But it must still be on the cutting table in the Workroom.

Daily Notes for Monday November 3rd. Cloudy and a bit of a chill here in Maine.

 Donuts.  My Grandmother made homemade donuts....even the Jelly Filled ones.  

Yesterday (or the day before) I watched one of the cooking shows and they were making Austrian Strudel. And I recalled stretching the thin see thru dough with my grandmother.   I was TERRIBLE at it.  But I would be so much better now-  I am older and more experienced in cooking but she is long gone-  And I missed her very much while watching that show.... they also made Bread Dumplings- I adored those.

1.  Life is slowing down for me....I've lost interest in quite a lot of things.... I don't feel like this is depression but then most depressed people can't describe what is happening to them...

2.  I opened the door to what used to be husband's closet and found all sorts of nice things- my own clothing. So I pulled out a few items to wear.  Fresh clothing. Almost like "shopping".

3.  It's Monday and I have to collect and get the recycling and garbage ready for Son to haul to the road for pick up tomorrow. 

4.  Football yesterday and after than I went back to trying to finish reading my book...  The Seat Filler by Sariah Wilson.  When I want to read this book I have to order it from another Library.  I'm going to photocopy the cover and try to get  the local bookstore to order it for me.  Last time I asked them to order something I noticed a copy on the bookshelf in the store...they bought a second one for the store.

5.  Well, I need socks and oatmeal....Son is eating LUNCH...I am way off target today.

Daily Notes for Sunday November 2nd.... Dark outside and pretty early for me to be typing this post. 7am

Should have had these Poppies here yesterday for the Day of Remembering.

Furnace is running to warm up the overnight chill here in the house.....I turn the heat down while we sleep under down comforters...I usually also wear socks to bed....for half the night.... and find them on the floor in the morning.  Never recall taking them off.

1.   Pizza today and perhaps a football game. If a team we like is playing.

2.   I'm up very early....not even 7 am.  Not sure what to do with myself.  I need socks as my ankles are cold.

3.   Son did stop at the Library to pick up my books....some really good ones I reserved that arrived from far away libraries.  I'll settle in under my down lap quilt and read until it's time for number 4.

4.   Pizza  and Football.

5.   Heating Oil delivered yesterday...Winter is coming on fast here in Maine.

6.   I tried to stay up to finish my book The Seat Filler but gave up and went to bed...I'll finish reading today and start another book or...and this has been on my mind- work on another small fabric square. Perhaps green fabrics or blue.  No idea what I will choose.

7. Now socks and oatmeal....

 

Daily Notes- Saturday, November First....Sunny off and on and 52 degrees here in Maine.

 Trumpet Honeysuckle.  Never enjoyed this plant in "real" life but it looks quite lovely. Might not survive in Maine.

1.  Sun is shining...

2.  Didn't buy flowers while at the grocery store..

3.  I have the TV set to watch British Soccer at 11am. Arsenal is playing.  November First.  Red Poppies.

4.  I have a notice from the Library of two additional books ready for pickup.  Loans from other Libraries. If today is a "going out to eat day" for Son- he might pick them up....for me. Or not.

5.  I had the porch light OFF yesterday late afternoon and saw no evidence of any children out ... 

6.  I might make Kraft Mac And Cheese today.. it's been quite awhile... that's all...I need to watch as I enjoy Arsenal. They have this large refrigerator sized guy on the field.  And the play by play is by a guy with a strong accent. "who've agin"....