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.

First off, a huge happy birthday to Kelly. No matter how often they visit, or I get to see her, it’s never enough! I am happy and proud of the life she’s made for herself and her family. Here’s wishing her a wonderful celebration and appreciation of who she is!

To my cupcake queen!

This was her dad’s favorite picture of her.

Williamsburg VA

Halloween

Kelly’s family

Family

I started the 3rd book in my Hearthridge series. This one is an all out mystery and I’m enjoying the clues and the information. I had my dentist appointment, and am scheduled for next Tuesday to have the roots pulled on the broken tooth, and prep done on building a bridge that includes replacing the other bonded tooth in the front. It will be very costly – but spending 5 days without a front tooth has given me valuable insight as to how important this repair and procedure is.

I came home and made egg salad – I have a temporary front tooth that I can’t bite hard on – so I’m employing soft foods for the next week. And with Fixer to Fabulous in the background I am staying inside where it’s warm and toasty.

TODAY I am thankful for amazing daughters!

Happy Birthday, Kelly!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

I’d love this bed!

TOMORROW January 28th is:

Data Privacy Day; Library Selfie day; International LEGO Day; National Blueberry Pancake Day; National Daisy Day; National Kazoo Day; National Pediatrician Day; Pop Art Day; Thank a Plugin Developer Day; National Gift of the Ladybug Day.

Believe it or not, I’ve seen a few LEGO sets that I was very impressed with! They’ve come a long way. I’ve never taken a selfie at the library! God bless….

It’s only $400!!!!

Amazing photo:

What’s up there?

This day in History: 1864 Civil War skirmish at Kelly’s Ford, Virginia (Seemed appropriate!!!)

Last night before I went to bed I took pictures of the green lights in the snow on the front deck. They looked quiet and calming!

Front deck in the snow.

Today was just a normal, if not freezing!, day. I am letting at least one if not two spigots drip. I had several things to do, including a few loads of laundry. Still have some ironing to do after this.

About 11am I suited up and did a few things outside. I needed to clean on the upper back deck. I don’t like the snow to be heavy on that. Don’t like it heavy on the roof, either, but I’m not going up there! The snow buried my tier walk lights so I dug them out. I just came inside when Mark, Paul, and Nick came – Paul had his plow truck and swiped my driveway while Mark and Nick cleaned the walks. Such a blessing – two days in a row!

Front of house – look at the snow on the roof!

Nick

Paul in the truck, Mark in front shoveling.

Once they left (with a payment of cookies!) I made myself Campbells soup – Cheddar Broccoli. I paid a few bills, wrote some notes and emails, then worked on my Tazz story. I finished that and made my flax cookie balls and tucked them into the fridge.

While I was doing that, I did something I haven’t done in at least a decade. I put an ‘Adventures in Odyssey’ CD in and listened to that. It was my favorite one – the Star Spangled Odyssey one. It’s time travel back to Philadelphia, and the other is Ft. McHenry. I enjoyed that!

Autmn sent me pictures of Cameron playing in the snow last night after Noah got home from work. He loved it. Just look at that smile on his face!

They both look happy!

Kind of deep…

father and son!

Today I am thankful for James Dobson’s Adventures in Odyssey – my kids and grandkids grew up on that!

There are dozens and dozens!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 27th is:

National Holocaust Remembrance Day; National Chocolate Cake Day; National Geographic day; National Plan for Vacation Day; Punch the Clock Day; Speak up and Succeed Day.

We do need to plan for our spring trip – Kelly, Kathy and I are planning a short trip. Chocolate anything sounds good about now. And tomorrow is also Kelly’s birthday! No time clock punching – I don’t work tomorrow! God bless…

Amazing Photo:

Amazing moon photo

This day in History: 1979 “The Dukes of Hazzard” premieres on US TV network CBS

Woke up to snow – it’s still snowing – snow still predicted, along with the super freezing temperatures. I dislike the cold more than the snow. I was glad not to have anywhere to go – and just putsyed around all morning catching up on chores and even inventing some! The snow was swirling so that you could barely see out the windows.

At least it’s not sticking to trees or wires!

After breakfast I moved some furniture around in the living room. Can’t move everything as a few pieces either I personally can’t move or they don’t fit anywhere else. It was time for a small change.

Moved the couch…

The desk and the spinning wheel…

The recliner and the rug.

I took a mid-morning break; had hot tea and a flax cookie ball and read a chapter in my current book.

Tea in my snowflake mug!

Looking out my back door you can’t see where the deck starts!

Pretty deep….

I just did little things – changing batteries, putting things away, looking items up online, cleaning out drawers, etc. About 4:30pm Noah’s step dad Scott and his brother Gabe came and cleaned the driveway and the decks. That was such a blessing! They may have to be cleared off a bit again in the morning but I think my cousin is going to stop over for that. I feel better knowing I can at least get out of my driveway if I have to.

Scott getting it done…

Gabe cleaning the back deck

All done!

Bottom driveway.

Upper driveway…

Back door walkway

Today I am thankful for Scott and Gabe!

QUOTE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 26th is:

Australia Day; Community Manager Appreciation Day; Dental Drill Appreciation Day (don’t remind me…); International Customs Day; International Day of Clean Energy; National Bubble Wrap Day; National Green Juice Day; National Peanut Brittle Day; National Spouses Day.

Never been to Australia. I’m not really into bubble warp. Have a safe day – God bless…

Amazing photo:

Super tire!

This day in history: On January 25, 1961, President John F. Kennedy becomes the first U.S. president to hold a live televised news conference.