Wednesday rain - plus a bonus

As awful as things have been around our area, it is now fairly quiet outside my door.  Since Monday, I've had over 6" of rain in my gauge - 5" last night - with lots of thunder and lightning.  There were tornadoes and fatalities just SW of us in NE Alabama; in Athens, TN, between here and Knoxville; and in Polk County, the second county east of ours on the NC/TN state line.  Plus the horrors of the awful fire in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN, Monday and Tuesday.  I hope all this rain has at least put out most of the fires.  Because of all the rain, we've had flash flood warnings, too. 

I drove myself to my doctor's appointment this morning.  I knew the swim class would be cancelled because of the lightning, so didn't see my buffird.  Nothing like driving for the first time in two months in a steady rain - but all was okay.

--------------------------------------------------------

I'm not a cook any more, but I know folks who would like this recipe from today's paper.

Salted Caramel Sauce

1 cup heavy cream, warmed

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup water

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon kosher salt

       In a large, heavy saucepan, combine sugar and water and turn heat to medium high. Stir just until sugar is dissolved and then stop stirring completely. Do not stir the mixture; even if it looks a little grainy, that's just the sugar doing its thing. Boil for 6-7 minutes until the mixture has turned golden brown and starts to smell like caramel; make sure it doesn't get too dark or start to burn.

     When the mixture is a deep golden brown, turn the heat down to medium and stir as you slowly add the warmed cream. The mixture will boil up  vigorously (this is why you use a large pot).  Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter until it is melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla and salt.

     Cool the mixture to room temperature, then use right away, or transfer to a glass jar or two with a tight seal. Store in the refrigerator for up to a month.

     Start to finish: 20 minutes. Makes about 1 1/2 cups, roughly 12 servings.

Tuesday things

We had almost 2" of rain here last night, which should have helped our local fires.  The devastation in the Great Smoky Mountain Nat'l Park and in Gatlinburg is terrible.  According to the news, at least some of the fires were started by the extremely high winds toppling trees onto power lines last night, and I've heard some might be arson. Terrible stuff, with at least three fatalities.  We're supposed to get more rain tonight and tomorrow. 

I saw the doctor this morning, and he has released me to drive and to return to the pool.  He's also authorized me for outpatient PT three times a week.  I'll drive myself to another doc's appointment tomorrow morning (after post/pool coffee with my friends), but I probably won't go back to the pool until next week.  Sweet Randy picked me up to go to the doc this morning - it was nice to have some one-on-one time with him.

Monday Miscellany

• Physical therapy came by this morning.  She said I was doing great using a cane and to use that instead of the walker.
• It has been cloudy and windy all day.
• The weather-guessers are saying we may get our first inch of rain (in one day) since March.
• I see the orthopedist tomorrow - hoping for release to driving and to return to the pool.

Sunday Stealing - Thanksgiving edition

How many Thanksgivings do you attend? One family and one in the dining room where I live.

Where do you attend Thanksgiving(s)? At Margaret's house

What is your favorite dish? Stuffing/dressing, cranberry relish

What is your least favorite dish at Thanksgiving? I like almost everything.

What, if any, are your Thanksgiving traditions? We're pretty flexible, but mostly the same menu, plus family and friends. And we have our Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday.

Name your FAV thing about Thanksgiving. Family, friends, fellowship, and food.

Do you make anything for Thanksgiving? If yes, share what and why. Not much any more, but I still help make the stuffing/dressing.

Out of everything you eat at Thanksgiving, what can YOU cook the best? The dressing

What do you drink with your Thanksgiving feast? I drink water, but almost anything else is available.

Has there ever been a feud during your Thanksgiving? No

Do you have Appetizers before you Thanksgiving meal? Not formally, but there are raw veggies, pickles, olives, etc., available

How many people attend your Thanksgiving(s)? If yes, who? I think we had 16 - fewer than usual.

Have you ever missed a Thanksgiving? Not that I can remember

What kind of pie/cake/dessert do you eat for dessert? This year I had a home-made fried pie, but my usual favorite is mincemeat pie (none this year).

Do you ever play games at Thanksgiving? No

Name 3 things you are Thankful for: Family, friends, food.

Is there anyone who has normally attended Thanksgiving, that will not be there this year? Who? No, we usually have a varied crowd.

Name the funniest person at your Thanksgiving this year and tell us more. I don't remember anything specifically.

Which person eats the MOST? Nobody checks, but I'd guess Jesse or Don.

Which person eats the LEAST? I can't think of anybody who scrimps.

Do any animals attend Thanksgiving dinner? No

If so, do they get Thanksgiving scraps? No

Who carves the turkey? This year, it was Margaret

Have you ever had to make Thanksgiving all on YOUR OWN? Of course, for many years.

Do you get along with the people you have thanksgiving with? Definitely.

Is your Thanksgiving formal, or do you just do whatever? Absolutely "whatever"!

A Zelle Thanksgiving

I spent last night at Margaret's, getting to do my laundry as a bonus.  I helped her make the dressing for the turkey - and we did a pretty good job (if I do say so myself).  Everything was delicious today for our Thanksgiving dinner - turkey, dressing, gravy, country ham, sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, cranberries, macaroni & cheese, salad, potato casserole, and a host of desserts.  Plus our great family and friends - just to make it extra special.  Carol & Stephen brought me home this evening. A great Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving

I hope we can all enjoy this uniquely American holiday with the spirits of family, food, and fellowship.

Happy Thanksgiving!

This and that

I love the blog called Margaret and Helen.  Helen writes a blog every year just before Thanksgiving, giving rules to her family.  Click here for all of this year's version.  But, I particularly wanted to post her last paragraph.  It's something we should all take to heart. 

I love each and every one of you and I am so glad to have yet another holiday together.  Come hungry and leave full.  Hug one another because you can.  Argue if you must, but then agree to disagree.  Try something new or let go of something old.  Give more.  Take less.   Oh hell.  Listen to me rattle on like I am some sort of philosopher.  Screw it.   Come for the food and stay for the company.  Everything else can be made better with gravy.  I mean it.  Really.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

I had a PT session here this morning.  She says I'm doing great and wants me to start walking with a cane in the apartment more and more - and even try in the hall for a little bit.  I asked her if she thought I'd be released to drive (when I see the surgeon next Tuesday).  She suggested I try going to sit in my car - to see if I was going to be able to get in, manipulate the mechanics, adjust the seat, etc.  I'll give that a try - maybe when Margaret comes to pick me up on Friday (so I can have someone with me). 

Our hearts weep...

There was a terrible accident in Chattanooga this afternoon - a school bus from an elementary school wrecked with the driver and 35 students on board.  There are known fatalities, and 23 students were taken to local hospitals, and a few students walked away from the site.

It was a one-vehicle accident - the bus hit a tree and overturned.  The driver was injured and, according to reports, "is cooperating with police" in finding out what happened.  We've heard, unofficially, that five were dead at the scene, and one has died at the hospital.  But nothing said anything about the severity of injuries of the others who were hospitalized. 

Our hearts go out to all the families, schoolmates, and to our entire community.

Milestone

One month ago,  and

I've made improvements ev'ry

Day. Long way to go.

Interesting times

I felt much better this morning.  And I hope learned my lesson about pain-medication-timing.  I saw both the home health nurse and the in-house PT tech today.  I spent an hour in the PT office/gym here for evaluation and treatment.  They all say I'm doing great.  And,  I actually can see improvement myself - at least a little bit every day.

Sue came by this morning before she headed back to SC.  She's really worked hard for both me and for Randy's family this week.

-------------------------------------------

Things are changing here at the Terrace, too.  While I was at rehab, the executive director (of about 4-5 months tenure) was fired.  With the latest head chef and dining room manager, the food has improved considerably, although the service is still pretty slow.  And several residents have moved away, or are planning to move.  Ah, the old curse - may we live in interesting times.

Slowly...

I've been bragging about how well I'm doing - and I have been.  I've been making progress that I can see, almost every day - just in little bitty steps.  Well, I guess there was one backwards this afternoon.  I forgot to take my pain medicine and let the pain get ahead of me.  And I must have tightened up some when I took a short nap.  Wow, has the leg hurt all afternoon and evening!  I'll be more careful about med timing and keep working it out.

It's been great having Sue here to visit.  We haven't done much, but just visiting/reading/crocheting/knitting has been fun.  And she's been here when the various visiting techs have come.  She's had some ideas for them, and has gotten some ideas for her to take to help her father-in-law.  (Her mother-in-law died last week, and her FIL has Parkinson's.) She's going to go home to SC tomorrow.

Progressing

Jean is a happy camper - at home tonight with her sweet dog.  It was great to have her here, and she was such a help.  Sue is in town now - to help both me and Randy's family.  She was here with me this afternoon - actually here when the home health care nurse came and the PT tech came to make their assessments.  They were both impressed with the progress I've made, with suggestions and plans for other stuff to be doing.  Each will be making additional visits.  I sent Sue to spent the evening/night with Randy - I think he needs her more than I do right now.  She's going to take me to get my overdue mani/pedi tomorrow afternoon (and getting herself a pedi, too, of course).  Jean took me for my overdue haircut yesterday.  That ought to keep me going until after I see the surgeon on the 29th - and hopefully by then, I'll be released to drive. 

Gwin Ifill (1955-2016)

What a loss to the world of honest journalism!

Onward and upward!

Obviously things are very quiet this weekend.  The moon is several days from full, but very beautiful from my door.  The smoke has been very thick for days, but seems to let the moon shine through. 

The home health coordinator came by Saturday to get me set up for their services for the next few weeks.  This will include the nursing services here at the Terrace and the PT under their auspices.  The Terrace nurse came by to take vital signs, so I'm definitely getting checked.  Jean has had me getting to the dining room, walking in the hall, and doing some exercises. And I went to dinner tonight by myself.  Jean's been so good taking care of me - and I know she's ready to get back to her own home and her sweet dog - so she'll head for home tomorrow.  Sue will come in on Tuesday for "second shift". 

Onward and upward!

Friday

HOME!!!

Miscellany

I'm told I can leave here about 11 in the morning.  I have to talk with the nurse about general stuff, but then Jean can take me home.  Yea!  I've met all the PT and OT goals that they had for me here, and all tell me I'm doing well.  I know there's still more to come with the PT folks back at the Terrace.
-----------------------------------------------------
UTC women's basketball is about to start - and with a bang for us.  We open with an away game at Rutgers! and then our home opener is against Florida.  Coach Foster says "then we get into the tough part of the schedule!"  I don't know when I'll be able to start going to games, though.
------------------------------------------------------
The forest/brush fires keep burning, seemingly unabated, with new ones starting every day.  I-75 in our area was slowed way down most of yesterday due to brush fires and smoke along the highway.  One subdivision was evacuated, at least for a few days, but they hope they'll be able to keep the fire away from the homes.  And absolutely NO rain in the forecasts.

Afterwards

How to deal with the election outcome?

Actually, we dealt with the mechanics 16 years ago, when Gore won the popular vote and Bush won the Electoral College vote.

And, although we may not have liked it, we survived eight years of Bush/Cheney.  I can only hope we survive four years of Trump/Pence.

I will remember that this is one country - and we are all Americans first.

And I will try very hard to not despise and denigrate everything he does as others have done during the eight years of the Obama administration.  We must learn to work together and compromise for the good of all.

Sad news

Sad news this evening - Our dear Randy's mother, Jean, died this afternoon.  Our deepest sympathy to Taylor and the rest of her family, especially those who are also my family.  Much love to you all.

RIP, Momma Jean

Monday news

We've started the procedure toward getting me out of here on Thursday or Friday.  I've met almost all of the OT goals - still have to have her around while I take a shower.  Lots of work yet on the PT, but I don't need to be in Rehab for that. I can get a lot of that at The Terrace. 

There are so many brush/forest fires in our area now.  The smoke was very heavy this morning, but cleared by afternoon.  It'll probably settle down into our valley again overnight.  Everything is tinder-dry, so the least little spark will set something off, and the wind carries it.

My exciting life!

I've been making progress, but very slowly.  I went to the surgeon this afternoon.  He thinks I should be doing more, but....  And he's also concerned about the breathing problems I've been having.  I'm going to get something set up with my PC to get some investigation done for that problem.  No specific date for leaving here, maybe another 10 days or so.  Between PT sessions and doctor visit, I was pretty well shot today.

Progress

Still at rehab and

Improving very slowly.

Don't know discharge yet.

Rehab update

Everybody has commented on my breathing since I've been in here, so I guess I'll be asking my doc about a pulmonary workup when I see her for my 6-month check in December. 

The PT continues to go well.  I walked more than twice as far this morning, and am now on getting-up-with-assistance for the bathroom.  This is great.  Even Jean is pleased.  The Occupation Therapy folks are working a lot on my upper body strength, so I have good confidence with that to help with walker/chair/cane, etc.  We'll see what fun thing they come up with next.  I know the bicycle thing is still in my future.

Five days postop

 I'm SO much better today.  I've had a shower, gotten my hair washed, and actually been to the toilet - all wonderful accomplishments.  The PT gals both told me I've done a great job today.  No panic this time, and had enough pain medicine to keep that under control.  I definitely will agree with the inpatient rehab.  IMO, the folks here are MUCH better dealing with patients here than in the hospital.  Things were too fast and rushed there - at least for me.  In the hospital, it was too much about getting me walking and to the potty and to the hall, etc.  Here they first worked on some strengthening to the leg, and just more standing and weight-shifting - before they actually worked on getting me walking any distance. And she started me off getting up between the parallel bars, rather on the walker.  She measured the distance covered this morning, and I had walked 30 feet.  It doesn't sound like much, but definitely was.  I could hear Jean all but crying behind me, she was so pleased.  I sat in the wheelchair to have lunch today, and then got taken to the potty.  Then just bed stuff for me to do the rest of the day. 

Coming here was definitely the best plan.  I really don't think I'd be doing as well as I am (5 days post-op) without it. Jean reevaluated my wardrobe and went to Walmart to make some adjustments, so I'm well fitted out with "lovely" exercise clothes, etc. I don't know how long I'll be here, but probably at least a week. 

Surgery eve

At least I'm early on the schedule.  I'm supposed to be at the hospital at 6:15 in the morning.  Jean got here this afternoon, and we've packed and talked about what needs to be done.  One of us will post as soon as possible. 

Counting down

Fortunately, my pain level was considerably less today than yesterday.  I guess things have settled down a little bit. I got a short pre-surgery haircut and hope it will last for the duration.  I started gathering different clothing for the hospital vs rehab. That was about the extent of my activities today. 

On the weather front, we tied a record high of 89 today.  It seems like this summer will never end.  However, the prognosticators are saying that it's going to cool off substantially by this weekend - with maybe even a little bit of rain.  We'll believe that when we see it.

Mondays can get interesting

I went to swimming and bridge today.  I came in second last week (four tables), and that was good to hear.  I'm sure I didn't do that well this time.  But I had some interesting hands and got a play a lot of successful defense (always fun).  One of my swimming buddies (Renna) fell yesterday - on her face.  She wound up with a broken nose, stitches, and dental surgery today.  At least she didn't break a big bone, but still.  I really hate it for her. Poor baby

Only two more days, and it can't come soon enough.  I went off my NSAIDs after Friday , and my body is really complaining.  I have an Rx for pain meds, but rarely take them.  That's not been true since yesterday.  Not fun at all. I didn't realize how much good the daily Rx does.  I'll sure be glad to get back on it regularly

------------------------------------------

On another front:  A group of residents and family members (50 total) met with the local Ombudsman for assisted living, etc., this afternoon.  I wasn't able to attend, but have gotten a report about it.  This large group gave a list of problems with the food (quality and service) and nursing since the new management company took over.  I gather it was a very good meeting.  The Ombudsman will digest all the information given to her and then meet with Management from the Terrace.  It will be interesting to see what happens next. Stay tuned.

"Exciting" weekend.

My exciting weekend started when there was no duplicate game at the bridge center because of a regional tournament.

Saturday's fun was taking a couple of my co-residents to the grocery store.

Today, it was laundry.  It's good the surgery is coming up, so I can get a few days of rest.

Friday Five

1. Swimming, followed by an Autumn coffee/breakfast at Renna's for the group.  Sweet!
2. Got business done.  Hand delivered signed contract and retainer check to the attorney, and got the medallion signature for what I hope is the last investment transfer (and got that mailed).
3. Went to duplicate, only to find an empty building.  No session because of a regional tournament.
4. Vegetated through my unexpectedly free afternoon.
5. Got achy enough that I decided to not go up to dinner, got into soft clothes, ate at home, and went to bed early.

Thursday stuff

Forgot to mention the HORRIBLE thing I saw on Tuesday.  I went to Walmart, and they had Christmas stuff out on the shelves.  AAAAARRRGGGHHH!!! 

I went to Silver Sneakers, and my afternoon was dedicated to a mani/pedi and a visit with the Financial Advisor.  I had to get the polish off my nails before the surgery.  Then I went to sign some more stuff at the financial office.  Lots of stuff to get arranged. 

I'm seeing some birds I haven't seen for a while - guess they're coming back for the winter.  All summer I've had nuthatches, titmouses (titmice?), black-capped chickadees.  Now I'm seeing some cardinals, doves, and wrens.  I really hadn't missed them until they started showing up again. And the hummingbirds have gone for the winter.

Voted!

My big (and only) accomplishment today was to vote.  The county election commission comes here so residents can vote.  The state early voting starts on the 19th, so this is essentially an absentee ballot.  I'm just glad to have it done before my surgery. And now these people can all shut up and get off my television.

Rain deficit!

The weather is great.

We really do need some rain.

Sun, glorious sun!

Preadmission Monday

I had my preadmission visit this morning - and it took the whole morning.  Blood work and EKG, then a visit with the nurse for history-taking and instructions. Someone will call me the afternoon before surgery to let me know the time to show up. Fortunately there's so much information prior to a joint replacement that everything is written down, too.  Now I get to study and exercise and remember to do all this stuff.

I had enough time to grab some lunch before bridge.  And then even got some pretty good cards during the afternoon. This evening, I started some of the exercises and studied the paperwork from the hospital.  Tomorrow I need to talk to the nursing staff here and find out for sure the services I can expect for after rehab.

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing

Wish List Meme, part one

1.) What are 3 things on your Wish list and why?  Good health; to have my money last; for Trump to disappear.

2.) Do you miss your childhood? No

3.) What do you do on your spare time on the weekends? I'm retired. Weekends are just like the rest of the week.

4.) What do you appreciate most in your life? My family.

5.) Would you rather be rich or healthy? I'll take some of each.

6.) If you could go back in time would you and why? Maybe a couple of years, before John got sick.

7.) Favorite game as a child? Jacks.

8.) What is your dream career? I pretty much like retirement.

9.) What do you do in your free time? It's all free - I knit, read, play around on the computer.

10.) Favorite clothing stores? I hate shopping, so Walmart or online.

11.) What TV shows can't you live without? NCIS, Rachel Maddow, Sunday Morning.

12.) 3 things you need in your life are: Food, shelter, family.

13.) What can't you sleep without? I can sleep most anywhere, anytime.

14.) Who do you have a celebrity crush on? Nobody - well, maybe Gibbs.

15.) What is your Favorite Season and why? I love the cool, crisp weather of Fall.

16.) What is your Favorite Wild Animal? Hawks

17.) Name 3 of your Favorite Childhood shows: Mine were on the radio, and I really don't remember any of the names.

18.) If you could live as a character in a movie who would it be? No answer here.

19.) Favorite vegetables? Tomatoes (but that's a fruit), corn.

20.) Favorite Fruit? Cantaloupe (or maybe tomatoes)

21.) If you had a dragon what would you name it? Dragon 

22.) What do you put on hotdogs? Mustard, onions, chili

23.) Do you play online games? Yes, but not timed ones or role-playing ones.

24.) What's your favorite way to get inspired? Huh?

25.) Do you have a middle name? I didn't until I got married, then I used my maiden name as my middle name

Friday Five

1. Hurricane Matthew has ruled the news.  All our folks are safe.
2. Alison & Joe are in Croatia and other countries on their long-delayed honeymoon.
3. Happy Birthday, Margaret!
4. I wonder if Trump will overcome today's news like he has all the other revelations.
5. It's looking like another quiet weekend.

Legal stuff

The trip to the attorney was quick and easy.  When I made the appointment, the paralegal sent me an email with a form to get all the information they needed.  I filled that out and took it with me.  I also took, of course, my previous wills/documents.  It's a one-attorney office, in a small building,  and the attorney deals with "elder" related issues - so it was just what I was looking for.  My appointment was at 10:30, and I was back home at 11.  I had provided all the information, so we didn't have to go through a lot of that.  Anyhow, I liked the man, so I'm pleased with my morning.

Bridge after supper tonight, and that's the extent of my excitement for the day.

Ten Things Tuesday

1. I got my flu shot here at the Terrace.
2. Silver Sneakers class gets me off my butt.
3. Lunch was okay today.
4. Hurricane Matthew is turning out to be a real stinker.
5. Paul and Katherine are having to evacuate from their home.
6. Sarah and Carson are having to evacuate from their home.
7. I went to supper with Carol and Stephen at a new Caribbean restaurant.
8. Jerk Chicken is good, but a little hotter than I'd like.
9. I watched the Vice-Presidential debate.
10. It didn't change my mind on the election.

Better Monday

Home after my long Monday.  Not much in cards at bridge today, but the time in the pool was great.  My back pain has eased off over the day, so I guess it wasn't the Fosamax.  I don't much care - as long as the pain has stopped.

We now have a 14" rain deficit for the year, and have no rain predicted for the next two weeks.  And the highs over the next five days are supposed to be in the mid80s.  Crazy year.                                                                                

A new life begins for the newlyweds and old stuff for me

The wedding was lovely and Andy & Erica are well and truly married.  The venue was great, with beautiful weather.  The ceremony was outdoors beside a lively, lovely small river, just at dusk, and just outside the mouth of the cave.  The reception was held under the overhang at the entrance to the cave, beautifully decorated with lights and white and black flowers.  And it's always great to get to spend time with my girls, their spouses, and good friends.  Sue and Randy got me back home about 2, so I had time to get my papers read and then go up to supper.

I'm going to have to check with my rheumatologist this week.  I've had five once-weekly doses now of Fosamax, and my back is killing me.  I've been taking more pain medicine, but without much help.  I don't know if this is something new or a side effect from the Fosamax, so I want to ask his opinion and what my options are.  The knee did pretty well with the walking at the wedding.  I was very careful with the cane, and the girls and SILs are so solicitous with me.  Anyhow, we shall see......

Wedding Weekend!

Off to the wedding.

Sue/Randy to pick me up.

Andy /Erica!

Surprise Thursday

The fire alarm went off at 4:30 this morning - Everybody hates the middle-of-the-night fire drills, but I do understand their necessity.  I got back to sleep some in the chair after that, then got up about 7, had breakfast and got dressed.  Then back to the chair with the paper.  I "dozed" off again about 8 and slept until 11:30!!!!  So much for Silver Sneakers or anything else for the morning.  Wow!  I've never done that before.

I checked with the surgeon again this morning about timing.  The nurse said the "usual" was to be in the hospital for 3 days and then about 2 weeks in rehab - all this depending on how the patient progresses, etc. Jean is set up to come stay for the duration.

Wednesday Miscellany

• My surgery is set.
• The knee replacement will be 20 October.
• Jean will come down to stay here and tend to me.
• We'll make more plans this weekend when we're all together at Andy & Erica's wedding.
• Today was a lovely fall day.
• I got a great view of the space station sailing over tonight.

Long hot summer! Too

many days over 90*. Just

81* today.

8^)

Travel opportunities

After the debate tonight, you may be considering travel opportunities.  Here are some suggestions:

Here are some possible travel opportunities  .....

I have been in many places, but I've never been in Cahoots. Apparently, you can't go alone. You have to be in Cahoots with someone. 

I've also never been in Cognito. I hear no one recognizes you there. 

I have, however, been in Sane. They don't have an airport; you have to be driven there. I probably should have made several trips there, along with my friends, family and fellow workers. 

I would like to go to Conclusions, but you have to jump, and I'm not too much on physical activity anymore. 

I have also been in Doubt. That is a sad place to go, and I try not to visit there too often. 

I've been in Flexible, but only when it was very important to stand firm. 

Sometimes I'm in Capable, and I go there more often as I'm getting older. 

One of my favorite places to be is in Suspense! It really gets the adrenalin flowing and pumps up the old heart! At my age I need all the stimuli I can get! 

I may have been in Continent, and I don't remember what country I was in. It's an age thing.

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing: The "Doing Questions Like It's 2003" Meme

Tell us about your pets. If you don’t have one, share why you don’t. I don't have one and don't want one.  I don't want to have to take of anything except myself right now.

Name three things that are close to you. Phone, TV remote, laptop.

How was the weather for your summer? Awful.  Record setting over 100 days of temperatures over 90*, almost drought conditions.

What was the last film you saw? Did you like it? I saw The King and I  in a local theater.  Just as good this time, and great to see it on a big screen.

Tell us about the last trip that you took. A lovely boat trip along the coast of Maine, with Ann & Al.

Where do you buy groceries? Why? At Walmart.  Because I hate to shop for groceries (or anything else) and I can get almost anything I need there - so only have to go to one store.

Tell us something that you did today. Or will do if you haven’t had your morning coffee yet. Laundry

Have you pulled an all-nighter? I'm sure I have, but it's been so long ago, I don't remember why.

Can you taste the difference between Pepsi & Coke? I rarely drink any soft drink, and no, I can't tell the difference.

Tell us about your siblings. How many and what do they do? I had one older sister, who died 20 years ago.  She was a psychiatric social worker.

What’s the oldest thing that you own? I have some very old family photographs, and right now, that's the oldest thing I can think of.

Good and bad on Saturday

It was a gorgeous morning here - cool-ish, with low humidity.  I got the whole paper read on the deck.  Plus I slept until nearly 8 this morning - amazing for me!!  I did very little today - watched a lot of the NCIS marathon.  I have a tendency to sit on my whatever all day and just knit, read, or be on the computer.  I'm trying to get into the habit of getting up at least every hour and taking a short walk.  While we've got this lovely weather, I'm going outside  to walk on the walkway behind the building.  I hope I'll stick with it - I know I need to do it.

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------

I've been here at The Terrace just a week under one year.  And the decline in food quality, permanent staff/service/etc. is distressing.  Granted, there's been a lot of turnover in management (new owners, new management company, new director, new marketing, etc.) and it takes time for things to settle out.  And although I don't use it, I've heard tales about the turnover and decline in the nursing staff.  Since this is primarily an assisted living facility, that's even more distressing.  My next-door neighbors added on to their apartment at their own expense (not recoverable) and are even thinking about moving.  Some residents are calling an ombudsman. Those of us in independent living have the option of getting out-and-about, but most of the other folks aren't able to do that. Plus I'm already paying for three meals a day, but am eating out or at home more and more often. It'll be interesting to see if my monthly fee goes up at the end of my year. I like my apartment and the people here, and I don't want to move.  But at least I know I have that option.

Sorry - addendum

Sorry - I should have put the presidential debate site on PBS in as a link.. Click here.

Debates

You know what a politics junky I am.  And the first debate will be next Monday night (just in case you've missed this piece of news).  I have a couple of recommendations.  First is that you watch the debate and post-debate post-mortem on your local PBS station.  Their nonpartisan commentary is excellent.  PBS is also offering some great things on their web site.  Gwen Ifill has a piece on "How to Moderate a Debate".  And there is an interactive section with film of all the past presidential debates - back to 1960.  Enjoy!

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/watch-interact-every-presidential-debate-since-1960/

First day of fall

A lovely day here  in the SE corner of Tennessee.  I finished the whole newspaper (including the puzzles) out on the deck, watching the hummingbird (only one now) at the feeder.  Low humidity and not too hot, although it reached 93 this afternoon.  Silver Sneakers, and just computer time before lunch.  The rest of the day was almost as exciting - ending with some bridge after supper.

Usual Wednesday

Usual Wednesday - swimming and coffee.  We had a good lunch here today.  We got a new chef about 2 weeks ago, pulled out of retirement.  The food has definitely improved, overall.  Now if the quality is consistent, and they could get the server shortage fixed.  Somehow many of the regular servers seem to have disappeared, and members of the staff are doing a lot of it - nursing, maintenance, management.  It's good they're getting a chance to see how the dining room actually functions (good AND bad), but I know we'll all be glad when they get a full complement of regular servers working again.

New Tuesday

Nothing going on today - just went to Silver Sneakers and lunch.  Even though the high today is to be around 90, it was a lovely morning in the high 60s, and I sat out on the deck for my coffee and newspaper.  I'm planning to get my supper "to go" tonight and eat at home.  They have a gospel singer schedule for during the supper hour.  It's not my favorite genre of music and he is way too loud for the room - so I skip the dining room tonight.

-------------------------

And it's Tuesday night, and the beginning of the new TV season - new NCIS!!!

Sunday Stealing

Meme Martial Arts The :Sunday Stealing

Who was the last person that you held hands with? John

Are you loud, outgoing or shy? Somewhere between outgoing and shy.

Who are you looking forward to see? Family and friends at Andy and Erica's wedding.

Are you easy to get along with? I think so.

Have you ever given up on someone, only to let them back into your lives? Why? I can only think of one given up on. I'd let back in to make life easier for others.

If you were ill, which TV doctor or nurse would you want to take care of you? Dr. Joel Fleischmann, because I'd love to meet all the crazy folks in Cicely, AK.

Does talking about sex make you uncomfortable? Not one of my favorite topics.

Who was the last person that you had serious conversation with? Daughters via e-mail.

What was the last text message you received about? That Margaret got home safely last night.

Do you believe in luck and/or miracles? Miracles, no. I think mostly you make your own luck.

What good thing happened this summer? Matt and Claire's wedding, beach time, time with Ann & Al.

Convince us why we should or should not believe in life on other planets? Not anything I really think about it.  It seems likely, though, although maybe not "life" as we know it.

Who was your first crush on? I really don't remember.

Favorite part of daily routine? Swimming class on M/W/F.

Do you like your neighbors? Very much - both when we were in the house, and now at my apartment.

What’s your worst feature? My size.

Have you ever had trust issues? I don't think so.

Saturday

Today was looking to be a really nothing day.  But then Margaret texted that she was at the Vols football game, and would stop on her way home to go to dinner.  Yea! That's always a good thing.

We went for Mexican (so good) and I got caught up on all the news.  Jesse will finish moving to Tennessee tomorrow, and he starts his new job on Monday. It'll be good to see him in a couple of weeks.

---------------------------

BookTV is wonderful.  This is broadcast on CSpan2 on weekends.  It's devoted to nonfiction books and authors. Tonight it was sheer pleasure to listen to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg talk.  This program was recorded on 14 September 2016.  She has a book coming out next month (My Own Words), but it was a wide-ranging talk with lots of questions and answers.  Such a delight (and I'm sure you could find it on line).

FB

This was on FB, but I thought I'd rather post it here.

Been Married--Yes
Been divorced--no
Fell in love--Yes
Gone on a blind date--No
Skipped school--No
Watched someone give birth--No
Watched someone die--Yes
Been to Canada--Yes
Ridden in an ambulance--Yes
Been to Hawaii-Yes
Been to Europe--Yes
Been to Washington D.C.--Y
Been to Nashville--Yes
Visited Florida--Yes
Visited Mexico--Yes
Seen Grand Canyon in person--Yes
Flown in a helicopter--Yes
Been on a cruise--Yes
Been in a movie--No
Danced in the rain-No
Been to Los Angeles--Yes
Served on a jury--No
Been to New York City--Yes
Played/Sang in a band--No
Sang karaoke--no sang in a nightclub--No
Caught a snowflake on your tongue--Yes
Had children--Yes
Had a pet(s)--Yes
Been sledding on a big hill--No

Been downhill skiing--No
Been water skiing--No (tried, but couldn't)
Rode on a motorcycle--No
Traveled to all 50 states--Yes
Jumped out of a plane--No
Been to a drive-in movie--Yes
Rode a camel-No
Rode a Horse--Yes
Been on TV--Yes
Been in the newspaper--Yes
Stayed in the Hospital--yes
Donated blood--No
Gotten a piercing--Yes
Gotten a tattoo--Yes (only dots for radiation markers)
Driven a stick shift vehicle--Yes
Been scuba diving--Yes
Been snorkeling--Yes
Rode in the back of a police car--No
Got a speeding ticket--Yes
Broken a bone--Yes
Gotten stitches--Yes
Traveled Alone--Yes

Together - maybe

Life is starting to come together.  Almost all the financial stuff has been transferred to me and to my financial advisor.  And I have an appointment with an attorney to update my will and various other legal documents. I'll have to make a few more decisions, and then maybe I can coast for a while.

Quiet...

Such a quiet week.

I'll just see money folks to

Sign some papers.  Yawn!

Quiet time

Mornings here have been lovely, even with the daily highs around 90.  Today was a usual Monday - including a haircut.  I had fair cards, but probably didn't get into the top four finishers.  No money is involved in any case - just bragging rights.  Nothing much scheduled the rest of the week.

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing: The Alice Through the Looking Glass Meme

If your life was a book, what would be its title? "Who would've thought?"

Who is/was the weirdest person in your life? FJ or EJ or (more likely) me.

What is a special thing that someone once did for you? My family holding me last year.

If you could erase someone off the planet, who would it be? Current - Donald Trump, Dick Cheney; historical, Hitler, etc.

What’s a big goal that you have? Moving along, one day at a time.

If you could time travel and meet yourself at 16, what would you tell yourself? Hold on - it's going to be a fun ride.

If it were the last day of your life, how would you spend it? With my loved ones.

If you could meet any celebrity, who would it be and why? I'm not much into "celebrity" - maybe President and Mrs. Obama.

What is one romance depicted in film that you’d love to experience? Not the whole romance, but I love the final scene from the original "Sabrina".

Describe yourself in just one sentence. I am what I am.

Who is the most beautiful person on earth? Beauty comes from inside - and one of the most beautiful people I've known is my Aunt Betsy.

What was the best experience in your life? The travels we were able to take.

If you could rule the world, what would you change? There would be no war or poverty or illiteracy or hate or prejudice.

Where were you when you heard the news of 9/11? In a water exercise class at the YMCA.

Friday Five

1. Another hot, low humidity day.
2. I went back to the optometrist for dilation and other tests. There are a few other anomalies, but nothing serious.
3. Secondary cataracts are not as pronounced as first thought.
4. Played duplicate.
5. I'm not sure I know how to read the results, but I think we came in first again in the north/south pairs. 

Patch, patch, patch!

I saw the optometrist this morning (regular appointment) - mostly just a few little age-related problems, but nothing significant.  Except for the development of a secondary cataract in one eye.  That'll require a laser treatment sometime soon.  I've had that before, and it's no big deal.  I go back tomorrow for the second part of the exam (they can't do these at the same time - insurance stuff), but then I'm through for another six months.  Patch, patch, patch!

"Commander in Chief Forum"

I haven't said much about the campaign and upcoming election.  However, tonight I watched the "Commander in Chief" program on NBC and MSNBC and the followup program with Rachel Maddow on MSNBC.  The forum was put on by the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, and questions were put to the candidates by veterans. It was excellent to compare the two people.  And in Maddow's program coming a second hour, again the audience was comprised of veterans.  Some of the veterans who had asked questions of the candidates were asked their reactions to the responses to their questions.

In all honesty, my mind is made up and it's not likely to change.  But this was a fascinating look at the candidates and the followup from the questioners.  As the organizers said, they hope this is the first of what will become a constant part of presidential campaigns.  I wholeheartedly agree.

See if you can find it on line and watch both programs.  It's well worth the two hours.

Monday/Tuesday Seven

1. Back pain woke me up Monday morning, and stayed with me all day.  Since it was a holiday, I took one.  I had stuff to eat, so didn't even go up for meals.
2. I spent a good part of the morning, sitting on the deck, reading the paper and enjoying some sunshine, low humidity, breezes, and hummingbirds.
3. This morning, the back was better.
4. I got to read the paper outside again.  Lovely.
5. The orthopedist and I agreed on getting my left knee replaced in midOctober.
6. The right knee might get done, too - decision not made on that yet.
7. I got to have lunch with Missy on a stopover as she went from Atlanta to Norris.  It'd been too long since we'd gotten together, and it was special.

Lagniappe (that little something extra)

A story on Sunday Morning today brought back one of my best memories.  The story was about the Albuquerque Balloon Festival.  About 10 years ago, John did a hiking Elderhostel near Cortez, CO, and I went along just to enjoy the area and so we could do some stuff afterward.  After the program, we went to spend the night at a tiny motel in Mexican Hat, Utah, so we could do a drive through one of our favorite places - The Valley of the Gods Road, and take pictures.

We got to the motel early enough that we drove the loop, taking sunset photos.  When we got back to the motel, there were folks in the parking lot unloading paraphernalia for hot air balloons.  John asked where they were going to launch.  It turned out to be the Phoenix ballooning club and they were there for their annual launch the next morning at the Valley of the Gods. OMG!

We were up before sunrise to get into the area for our early morning photos over the rock formations. It was to be a glorious, clear morning. As the balloonists arrived (they usually launch soon after sunrise), we were able to drive around, watch the launches, and get photos.  To have the iconic rock formations, the wonderful early morning light would have been a photographer's dream in any case.  But then to have the colorful  balloons floating in and around the rocks made the experience a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The slides from that day are gone now, but the memories are still as bright and colorful as they were then.

Not the usual

Back pain woke me up in the middle of the night last night.  Some pain med got me back to sleep, but I skipped swimming this morning (and just went to coffee - LOL).  A trip to WalMart finished my trip out.  Then it got interesting.

As I was unloading the stuff from my car, I got stung by a bee.  It got up into my loose sleeve, and I was out of my shirt right there in the parking lot until I was sure it was gone.  I thought it was just one of those "sweat bees", but after I got the stuff in and got up to lunch, I started to feel  light-headed.  I went right for one of the nurses, who went looking for some Benadryl.  They didn't find any, but I got to feeling better, so they let me come on home.  I think they were ready with an epipen, though, in case it looked necessary (although they didn't pull one out right away and scare me with it).  One of the CNAs came down to check on me later this afternoon.  I did take a Claritin as soon as I got back to my apartment.  Then, of course, I found some Benadryl way back in a cabinet.  The little sucker-bee surely did get me though - it hurts, too.  Management sent somebody out to spray the area after I reported it.  I guess I can't let things get too ordinary for long. 8^)

I've put out a third hummingbird feeder, and the birds are going crazy with them.  There are probably 12 or more swirling around - who can count them? - they move so fast.  I can tell that's going to be my entertainment for some time. I'm going to miss them when they head south for the winter.

I hear some folks are getting some fall-like weather.  Temps are still in the 90s or high 80s around here.  We're not expected to get any of the rain from "Hermine", so we're still pretty dry.

Today was Jesse's last day at his old job.  He starts his new job in Tennessee in two weeks. After the holiday weekend, he'll be doing some driving back and forth getting his "toys" moved - two trucks, motorcycle, boat, etc. It's going to be good having him back in TN.

Sunday Stealing came on Thursday this week.

Sunday Stealing: Shannon's Moments Meme, Part Two

23. Have you ever gone to the “dark side”? I have no idea what this means.

24. What shirt are you wearing right now? Pajama top

25. What’s important about a bed to you? Like type of sheets, size or whatever. Comfort, clean - I'm  not picky.

 26. Can you sing? I used to be able to, but never very well.

27. What is something about you that would surprise? I don't think I have any surprises left.

28. Have you been a pirate, Renaissance Fair, or other costumed event? If not, would you for the right event or say cause? I definitely do not do costume parties.

29. What songs do you sing in the shower? Don't sing in the shower.

30. Favorite girl's name? SueMargaretKateJean

31. Favorite boy's name? No favorites

32. What’s in your pocket or purse right now? No pockets now, nothing unusual in my purse - card case, keys, tissues (I hate purses, and try not to carry one.)

33. Last thing that made you laugh? Watching the hummingbirds outside my door.

34. Best toy as a child? I don't remember any favorites.  I did like to cut out paper dolls and make new clothes for them.

35. Worst injury you have ever had? Most recent one I guess - broken humerus, requiring three surgeries.

36. Where would you love to live? On the water somewhere.

37. What type of TV do you have? Would you’d like an upgrade? Flat-screen, HD, don't need to upgrade.

39. How many dogs do you have? None

 40. Do most folks trust you? I think so.

41. What book are you reading? The Ladies of the Club by Marilyn Celeste Morris.

42. What’s your favorite classic TV show? The West Wing

43. What’s your favorite sports team? The UTC Lady Mocs and the TN Lady Vols.

44. Favorite month and why? None really - I do like autumn and spring seasons.