I was sitting in my recliner having my tea this morning and looked over at my school desk. This doll (and I’m not afraid of creepy dolls) looked possessed! Look at her eyes – one is wide open and looking straight ahead, and the other is lidded and looking to the right. I fixed them.

What’s up with that???

After breakfast I started a laundry load, then got ready for my chiropractor appointment. I remembered to take to LETTERS TO MARY books down, because Kip wanted one and April (receptionist) asked for one. Kip said his brother moved to Virginia because he was such a Civil War buff that he wanted to be in the middle of that. So he plans to share it with him.

After, I stopped at Shop and Save. They had a few really good items on sale because of the ‘big game’ this weekend. I took advantage of that and saved some money.

I had a project that I had been putting off – and finally got that done today. So I’m happy with that. I will share more information later – if I post it now I’ll spoil the surprise !

No, it doesn’t involve babies!!!

I also did all the editing updates for the Flax story from the boy’s point of view that Merilee (Flax Festival Chairman) asked for last summer. And am working on an essay for the Loyalhanna Review. Guess I should think about a story for the Spring Skunk Hollow event, too.

Flax in bloom

Got the ironing done and checked the mail – no mail! Good – that means no bills. I thought the snow looked fake – like in a Hallmark movie!

And that’s about it for today. And I am thankful for my chiropractor – I feel better…

Someone is an artist in Kip’s office!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW February 7th is:

National Play Outside Day (NOPE! TOOOOOO COLD!); Ice Cream for Breakfast Day; National Periodic Table Day; National Fettuccine Alfredo Day; National Send a Card to a Friend Day; e-Day; National Ballet Day; Rose Day; Take your Child to the Library Day.

Normally I’d choose the ‘outside’ day. But not tomorrow. I could eat ice cream any time. I’ll send a card out tomorrow. ROSE is Autmn’s middle name – so that’s cool! God bless…

Movie from 1952: Singin’ in the Rain

On this day in history: 1865 General Robert E. Lee is appointed General-in-Chief of the Confederate Armies during the US Civil War

Today was a little busier than I anticipated but it was a good day. And I got a few things done, as well. I did go to work first thing, but there wasn’t much to do. I left there and grabbed a few groceries. Actually only two things were edible; the rest were cleaning and household products. I defrosted a package of ground beef and made a meatloaf for supper – inspired by my sister who made one on Tuesday!

Ready to bake.

It was snowing first thing, and the trees looked so pretty with just a dusting of snow. We had a lot of snow in the past few weeks but none of it stuck to the trees.

Lilacs

Azaleas

Icicles

I just got home when Sir Rege called. They had a title that they needed done and put in the mail by 2pm. So I closed up my project and buzzed back down to work. While I was there Kelly called so I got the title done and chatted with her, then Rege, Barry and I got into a few conversations.

When I got back home, I took out all my tax documents and organized them and made a check sheet for my tax lady. She was coming into Greensburg (she lives in Latrobe, I think) and said she’d meet me and pick up my items. So step one is done.

I stopped at the post office and got two books of stamps. They didn’t have Peanuts, winter, or Christmas, so I got two different books of flower stamps. That should last for a while!

Also I finished the story I was doing for Merilee for the Flax festival in Stahlstown. I wrote one last winter but she had an idea for another one. So I just have to proof it and I’ll send it on for her review.

The little boy’s marble pouch.

Today I am thankful for my Pinnacle guys!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW February 6th is:

Working Naked Day (Ummm NO!); National Chopsticks Day; Bubble Gum Day; National Frozen Yogurt Day; National Wear Red Day; National Lame Duck Day; Give Kids a Smile Day; Time to Talk Day; Numbers Day; Pay a Compliment Day; Reclaim Social Day; Ronald Reagan Day.

I can’t chew gum with my Achilles Heel (um, er TEETH); I’m not a numbers person. Kathy will like the presidents in this post! God bless…

Movie from 1951:

Amazing photo:

ON this date in History: 1826 Future US President Millard Fillmore (26) weds Abigail Powers (27)

Wednesday – which is cleaning day. I didn’t read very much today in between. I’m almost done with my current book but it isn’t doing much to pull me in. I’m ready to finish this and get on a new series.

What will it be next?

Last night I did move a few other items, and made the space more doable for Cameron when he’s here. There are a few more things I’m planning but I’ll need some help. So that will be put off for a while. It’s too ‘winter’ for what I need done.

The bookcase corner

Cameron’s toy bench

Chrissy txt me pictures of her new (pre-owned) KIA. She’s so excited and I’m very proud of her. That’s a big step. She’s making some really ‘grown up’ choices and decisions. Way to go, Chrissy.

Her KIA

Officially hers!

I’ll say!

Autmn sent me a picture of Cameron’s bathtime. He was proud of his mohawk. It looks cute!

Mohawk man!

And honestly that’s it for the day. Hopefully tomorrow will be more interesting. In the meantime I’m thankful for grandkids!

Chris and Cameron – archive photo (There are 4 more!)

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

OK – that leans toward optimistic….

TOMORROW February 5th is:

National Chocolate Fondue Day; National Fart Day (Don’t look at me – I didn’t say it!); National Sweater Day; National Weatherperson Day; Optimist Day; Time to Talk Day; World Nutella Day; National Shower with a Friend Day; Disaster Day; National Primrose Day.

Disaster Day is any time I try a home improvement project. I don’t usually lean toward being an optimist. Normally I like chocolate anything. I don’t plan on showering with ANYONE! God bless!

Movie from 1950:

On this date in history: 1783 Spain recognizes US independence

It almost felt like a normal winter day. Sun/clouds; no snow but cold — but not TOO cold. Several things to do at work, which went well. Then I headed down to Irwin (again) and finally purchased the little desk that I’ve been deliberating over since Thanksgiving. I examined it closely — it was real wood, antique/vintage, the roll top worked fine and was solid, the legs didn’t wobble, and the pigeon holes were in tact. So I used my Christmas gift card and bought my own present (as gift cards are supposed to do!).

Desk and chair

New little desk

I did have to rearrange a few items to get the perfect location for the desk, and I’m happy that everything is where it should be. And Cameron can sit and draw at the desk when he gets a bit older. Right now he prefers chalk to crayons and doesn’t necessarily like paper!

Moved the shelf.

So, I was able to grab a bowl of my veggie soup (really need a change soon!), then scrubbed the desk, did the ironing, and changed batteries in a few light sets. I may try to update a story I’m working on. I have Hallmark on in the background (of COURSE I do!) but not really thoroughly watching anything specific.

Today I am thankful for gift cards!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW February 4th is:

National Sweater Day; National Hemp Day; National Girls and Women in Sports Day; National Homemade Soup Day; National Create a Vacuum Day; National Thank a Mail Carrier Day; Farmer’s Day; Liberace Day; National Wicker Day; Quacker Day; National Signing Day; World Read Aloud Day.

The soup, I can do. Kathy will like the ‘signing’ day, and I LOVE read aloud day. I’ll thank my mail carrier – great idea. And if you like to eat, THANK A FARMER! God bless…

Amazing photo:

This is a beautiful, enviable desk!

This day in History: 1959 Plane crash known as “The Day the Music Died” kills musician Buddy Holly

Well, that little rodent saw his shadow. Which really doesn’t matter. Six weeks from today is the first day of spring…. Here’s my homage to the little guys:

My four guys – from Aunt Joan and Aunt Dolly

I did a load of laundry, then got out the Valentine decorations. I only had one small bin but it took me two hours! I just turned on my 5-disc CD player (some Christmas, some not) and worked. Once I was done with that, I put up the outdoor flags, got the blankets from the storage chests, swapped coasters, and did window clings. By then I felt like I needed a break.

Blanket

Snoopy joined Desiree on the bench.

Front window lights

Bookcase in red.

Kitchen – red heart lights

Outdoor flag

I had already determined that I would not go running around until the temps hit 20*. So that happened, and I went down to Irwin. It was time for a browse through Miller’s Crossing. I’m still contemplating the purchase of a small item – I’m almost convinced. I need one more trip! I did get my honey. Also saw “Rusty” who has a booth there, and sells coasters and home décor. He’s going to see if he has skunk coasters! Wouldn’t that be fun! Then I stopped at Walmart.

Mommy found a baby!

Duckie cow!

Lunch was 1/2 an egg salad sandwich, which finished it off, with a bowl of soup. I just started on little projects and emails, etc, when Chrissy and Nate stopped. They were headed off to look at a KIA – Chrissy has been saving for a vehicle and is hoping this one works out!

I do not see the moon tonight – but Diane sent me pics of predicted February moon phases.

February (and March) moons.

So here I am finishing the post of the Word Garden. And TODAY I am thankful for quick visits from Chrissy and Nate!

From my archives….

QUOTE of the DAY:

Diet Pepsi Please!

PEANUTS?

Tomorrow February 3rd is:

American Painters Day; Feed the Birds Day; National Carrot Cake Day; National Golden Retriever Day; National Missing Persons Day; National Patient Recognition Day; National Wedding Ring Day; National Women Physicians Day; The Day the Music Died, Doggie Date Night; Elmo’s Birthday; Take a Cruise Day.

I don’t paint – walls or pictures! Mom and John used to love watching and feeding the birds. We always took carrot cake when we went up to visit them. Cam will be excited about Elmo’s birthday. God bless…

AMAZING Photo:

Yep! They are still popping up!

On this day in History: 1887 First Groundhog Day observed at Gobbler’s Knob, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

It was cold this morning, but sunny, and church went well. We had an ordination service for two new deacons (never served before) and the exciting part of that was that one is 20 or 21! I don’t remember having a deacon that young before. He is a wonderful young man (who I taught in Sunday School YEARS ago!) and comes from a great family. So that was special.

Our Sunday school lesson was the second on the book of Revelation. It’s been a great study so far and very interesting. Todd’s message was again on the series ‘Chutes and Ladders’ – It’s about the importance of your good name. My dad always stressed that to us – I remember sitting on the couch with him as he explained how important it was. A good name instills confidence, speaks for you, and inspires others. It’s not about impressing people – it’s about reflecting Christ. Ordinary people inspire.

I stopped quick into Walmart to get a few organizers for my kitchen cupboards. They were getting out of hand. I ate a bowl of soup for lunch then took everything out of several cupboards and started from scratch. Turned out so much better.

Pantry

Glasses and cups

Had one item I needed to print, but the ink finally gave out. And I figured out how to change it! So now we’ll see how long this lasts.

While I was working on the Skunk Hollow event I had Grand Ole Opry Christmas on in the background. Singing, of course, with the songs! Then I did the treadmill for a mile and finished the ironing.

Pretty good movie….

Pink Sky a little before the moon rise.

The moon is amazing! I hope you had the opportunity to look outside. It’s huge and round and bright!

The moon, a green blob, and something star-ish in the top right.

TODAY I am thankful for Quiet Sunday Afternoons.

The Real West – lazy Sunday movie.

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

Welcome, February!

TOMORROW February 2nd is:

Groundhog Day; National Brown Dog Day; National Catchers Day; National Heavenly Hash Day; National River Day; National Sled Dog Day; National Tater Tot Day; National Ukulele Day.

That groundhog better watch his P’s and Q’s — his life is on the line! I like tater tots on occasion. God bless…

AMAZING PHOTO:

Actually, it’s today….

On this day in history: 1587 Queen Elizabeth I of England signs the death warrant for her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots (Glad I’m not related to her!!!)

Saturday! It’s currently 13*. Heatwave! 🙂 I did stay in all day – didn’t even go up for the mail. I’ll get it in the morning. Did talk to my friend Mary – she called to check in.

Mary

I did normal Saturday stuff, with updating pill-keeper, changing and washing sheets, making my lists. I wanted something soft for breakfast so I made muffins, which were yummy. I worked on some research and emails and our spring Skunk Hollow event – which is always tricky.

I had the Grand Ole Opry Christmas on again just in the background while I worked. Talked to Autmn for a bit and she sent me pictures of Cameron. They put his new Mickey Mouse bed together and he slept all night in it last night. First time! He loves it and was super excited.

Perfect fit!

New bed

First night…

My happy boy.

Getting creative

I also made a big pot of veggie soup. I put the meat to simmer about 10am and left it cook until a little after 4pm. I just now added the veggies and will eat once I finish this.

TODAY I am thankful for a little sunshine and no snow!

QUOTE of the DAY:

Contributed by my friend Diane

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW February 1st is:

National Dark Chocolate Day; National Texas Day; National Get Up Day; National Baked Alaska Day; National Serpent Day; National Freedom Day.

I love dark chocolate! I try to get up every morning… 🙂 My Aunt Joan used to make Baked Alaska for special occasions and I loved it. No serpents please! God bless our freedom!

Amazing Photo:

Taken by a friend.

On This day in History: 1961 “I Fall to Pieces” single was released by Patsy Cline (Billboard Song of the Year 1961) (A particular favorite of mine!)

Here we are – only one more day left in January. I’m expecting big things from short little February so it’d better come through. Warmer temps, less snow, reduced drama, improved health for everyone!

My dentist appointment went very well. I tolerated the dental work better than I expected. As mentioned, my teeth are my Achilles Heel! He prepped my mouth (4 teeth/areas) for the bridge, made the temporary, extracted the nuisance tooth that started this journey, and fitted everything back in. I did have a LOT of Novocain which when it started to wear off made me very drowsy. Hardest thing is – of course for me! – no hot tea or carbonated beverages for 24 hours at least! I’ll survive. But the staff and Dr. Bryan are very nice, efficient, and the doctor has a fun sense of humor.

This was my view through the whole dental procedure – a ‘screensaver’ burning fire!

I got there at about 20 til 11am, and got home a little after 1pm (taking into consideration I popped into Shop and Save for Lipton Soup!). I haven’t done much except start the dryer and fold the load of clothes when it dried. Oh. I also changed a light bulb in the night light downstairs!

Today was still cold but the sun shining so bright made up for that just a little. Made it feel warmer, and actually the roads and driveways cleared off just a little more.

Oh, and guess what? My blood pressure was normal! I always test high! So that started the visit out on a good note.

Very close to this….

TODAY I am thankful for:

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

For sure!

TOMORROW January 31st is:

Brandy Alexander Day; Eat Brussel Sprouts Day; International Zebra Day; National Backward Day; National Hot Chocolate Day; National Inspire your Heart with Art Day; National Scotch Tape Day; National Seed Swap Day; National Appreciate your Social Security Check Day.

I DO appreciate my check! Yea! Imaging Scotch tape having its own day. Hmmm. On cold days Hot Chocolate would be really nice. God bless…

AMAZING PHOTO:

My cousin’s daughter-in-law Jody took this!

This day in History: 1892 The Coca-Cola Company is incorporated in Atlanta, Georgia (For some of us this is very important!)

I did have several things to handle a work today. But luckily no problems to solve or correct. I got everything done by about 10:30am and did the filing. All three bosses were there so I ended up chatting with each of them about different issues. We didn’t solve anything but life is good.

I left work and stopped at the Dollar Tree. I picked up some Knorr rice packages, which will be easy to eat with no front-teeth biting. And a package of thank you notes as I was almost out.

Since I didn’t have any 16 oz bottles of water, so I zipped into Aldi and got that and a small tub of ice cream. Note sure what my eating situation will be tomorrow after the procedures so I wanted to have something comforting.

Since I was in the plaza anyway I walked into Marshalls to look around. I got a package of 2 utility brushes, one of the laundry and one for the kitchen.

I took the back road home, and it was pretty in the snow; in fact it’s snowing now.

Today I am thankful for chocolate ice cream!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 30th is:

National Croissant Day; National Draw a Dinosaur Day; National Escape Day; National Fun at Work Day; National Big Wig Day; National Preschool Health and Fitness Day; National Inane Answering Message Day; School Day of Non-Violence and Peace.

I like having fun at work. I am not and have never been a Big Wig! I like chicken salad with grapes on a croissant! What should I escape from? The cold??? God bless…

Amazing photo:

Giant chocolate chip cookie. I want one!

On this day in history: 1813 Jane Austen‘s “Pride and Prejudice” is published by Thomas Egerton in the United Kingdom

Short one tonight. My lunch plans were postponed because Bernie (my former neighbor) was snowed in and fighting a cold and she didn’t want to share it. Wise move. We’ll do it next week or so.

I had a piece of soft bread with egg salad — and took one bite and my temporary tooth cracked down the center and half of it fell out on my plate. I can’t describe how I felt. Sigh. But I called the dentist office just to inform them of this turn of events. They called me back and moved my major dental procedures up to Friday morning. Let’s get this over with.

I turned on YouTube and found an interview with Jan Karon (my favorite author) for her newest book release (MY BELOVED) in October. One video went into the next and 2 1/2 hours later I’m still listening to videos.

Today I am thankful for moved appointments!

Quote of the Day:

PEANUTS?

I’d go on THIS plane!

TOMORROW January 29th is:

Curmudgeon Day; Free Thinkers Day; Kansas Day; National Corn Chip Day; National Puzzle Day; Red Carnation Day; Seeing-Eye Guide Dog Anniversary.

I like corn chips – and a puzzle once in a while. That’s it! God bless….

Amazing Photo:

This day in history: in 1986 the spaceship Challenger exploded 73 seconds after take off, killing all seven crew members.