Better Friday

 Why do I watch the weather forecast? The see what the weather will the next day. Well, it seems like the weather is not listening to the forecast. I expected some rain today, and so far have see nary a drop. That has happened several times lately. That's okay, but my plans were thwarted. 

Today, I am not dizzy. I don't have vertigo. I am just wobbly when I walk. I did not realize how ill I was until I got over it. Yesterday, even glancing up at the TV or moving my eyes caused a massive whirl in my head. Once I was sitting still, the inside of my head felt like it was whirling. 

My nose is not drippy, but all day I have been sniffling. That is a firm win! Since I felt so much better, I went into Publix today.

I almost knocked over one of the tiny light tables they put displays on near the door. I was so embarrassed, but two employees caught the table so it did not fall. My milk was marked down to $4.49/half gallon. I really needed more at that price, but I bought one. We have until Tuesday to get that price. Activia yogurt was bogo, so bought four 4-packs. Strawberries were 3 packages for $10. I found one package of good green grapes. We have a bag of peaches, one orange. I needed celery, but it was not on sale, bought it anyway. 

We have a couple of dozen green apples, and about four dozen red delicious. So, we are not low on fruit. I never did cook the Granny Smith apples, so maybe I can get that done. 

Tommy broke several branches off the purslane. I broke one. We managed to break off all the stems with flowers! That was yesterday, so today I went out to rescue them. I only found one of the four. Maybe Tommy can find the others. Other succulents are easy to transplant, so maybe this will work for purslane. 

The dead-ish knockout rose looks 100% better. I revive things from Lowe's all the time and for years. Some days, I look at the reduced plants and wonder why the employees don't use water and maybe one minute of time, pruning dead stuff. I am not talking about intensive care. Any thoughts on that? 

I got another tomato from Lowe's. I had permission. 

My dinner tonight--basically a cheeseburger--chopped ground beef on a bun, cheese, tomato, plus helping of slaw and grapes, apple later. All this is stuff in the refrigerator. I won't cook or prepare anything, just have leftovers and the fruit. Tommy will do the same--choose what he wants. Okay, he had a chicken sandwich, slaw, salad with tomato. 

We put chicken cutlets in oven to cook and chicken cutlets in skillet to cook and put two more packages back into refrigerator. All packages are cutlets, so Tommy will be happy to be making chicken sandwiches with these very thin cuts of chicken. I will slice it up and put mine in Mediterranean Pasta.

I just had an unspeakable accident. I am not prepping, but I think I could be ready for the colonoscopy. Now, I have to clean carpet. Now, I am so weak, but not dizzy or having vertigo!

Has it seemed the weather forecast has not been happening for the last two weeks? 

Do you ever transplant purslane from broken stems?

Wednesday Podiatrist

 We both went to the podiatrist Wednesday. She trimmed our toenails. It was a mixed experience. 

IT HURT. 

But, she did what was necessary, digging out the ingrown toenails. She rubbed something on my feet, like a wonderful oil. Tommy was not hurt at all. I was noisy when it hurt. 

I expressed the fear that I was going to lose a toe, foot or more because of the condition of my toes. She laughed and assured me I was not in danger of losing a toe. 

The whole ordeal of going there was exhausting--walking, my lower back hurting sitting in her chair. Time spent waiting. 

She refuted things endocrinologist told us about diabetes. Good to know. She asked us both how long we had had diabetes, what meds we took. I was saying how the metformin gave me diarrhea. She explained that the metformin removed sugar from blood and gave me dumps. Well, I would have never touched sugar or a carb ever again to stop that reaction if I had known. None of the written material I was given had this information.

Endocrinologist told Tommy he needed to have the "bump" under/behind his big toe corrected because it would break down and become infected. He has had hammertoes since he was a small child. Shoes will not correct this. The podiatrist said it could not be corrected now without a lot of surgery. She said if he cannot get a diabetic shoe on his foot, what was the point. I will take her word over endo. 

We went to Lowe's and found an electric cart outdoors, so I went inside using it. The seat had nothing but nasty looking, and shredded foam. The back was bare down to surface with bit of foam still glued to back. I took a red throw from the back seat and used that to cover the cart. Inside, I found a knockout rose for $19.98. No way. So, I found a discounted one, mostly dead but with viable looking buds for $9.98. Plants are easy to revive. Then, I bought pink (I think) purslane for my concrete bunny sitting out front. Purslane is succulent, so it should survive the heat. 

Next, we got three store ads that I have not bothered to read. I was so exhausted that I took a very long nap. Tommy had whatever he wanted, and I had spaghetti and salad. I called a friend while Tommy was getting one ad. She said she knows she will never be able to say she feels well ever again. That was a 16 second call.

When I went to bed Tuesday night, my head was much less congested. But, when I awoke on Wednesday, I was dizzy and congested again. Elevated temp was down. Yes, I do become ill from my allergies. My congratulations to anyone who does not have allergies. The privet are rampant at the other end of the street. Hopefully, they will quit blooming soon. 

Thursday, the bit of vertigo morphed to full on vertigo. This hardly ever happens with me. I don't know if I can take Meclizine or not, so I will have to wait for morning to talk to doctor's office. I did take it, but that was long ago, and the prescription has expired. 

In a bit, I will have some horseradish that will clear my sinuses. 

I went over the three ads looking for Kraft Cheese on sale. Tommy ate Gruyere. It is not my choice. He only needed milk, and I needed bananas. So, the trip to Publix was short for us. This will be a low grocery spending week. 

When I brush my teeth, I sit in my chair.  When I got up from commode, I bumped my head on the tile opposite the commode. It is not hard to stay upright. Tommy has remarked that the way I bump the hall on both sides sounds like a pinball machine. I win when I don't fall. Makes me happy. 

Do you ever go to podiatrist to have nails trimmed or other work? 

Was it good for you, too?

Do you use purslane in sunny, hot areas?

I did not edit this, so good luck.

In Response to 'Cover up'

 I am tired, still ill. Read this.

Breastfeeding Mom Has Epic Response to 'Cover Up' - Secret Life Of Mom : Secret Life Of Mom

Isn't that the best response? 

How do you feel about breastfeeding in public?

Tuesday Things

Today, we went out to do something that was not happening. Then, we decided to go home and go later to a market. I just wanted to stay home. So, we did.

I rested a bit, maybe less than an hour. At Publix last week, I bought strawberries that looked like they might be red all the way through. I then bought the box next to it. Well, the first strawberries were red and sweet, not so the second container. Most are sliced and sprinkled with sugar. I left some out for Tommy because he hates strawberries with maybe a Tbsp of sugar on two containers. He will eat them as strawberry shortcake even though he says he does not like sugar and complains mightily. So funny. 

Now, between the two of us, we are making spaghetti. He will eat the ground round he chopped and cooked if I wait. We need to eat the salad mix as it will go off by tomorrow. 

I called the nurse for doctor where I was to get the colonoscopy, and she was not aware I did not show up. (I did call surgery where it was to be performed,) I told her I wanted to know if going under anesthesia and this procedure was safe with right side of my heart not beating. She was rude and seemed to not be aware. She said rudely, "The right side of your heart does not beat?" I said, no it does not. She said sarcastically, "If the right side of your heart was not beating, you could not be talking to me now!"

When I asked to speak to a nurse, she said meanly, "I am a nurse!" Well, I was confused. The conversation went downhill from there. She can schedule me the end of July.  

Maybe I am getting better. The hold on my nasal passages seems to be lessening. I am still a bit dizzy. But, it comes and goes, so I hold onto things to walk. The tiredness has not lessened one bit. I am still managing to sleep, so that is a good thing. 

The washing machine mechanic came before I woke this morning. He took off the springs/shocks and replaced. Tommy said it took 20 minutes. Cost: $206. I am very grateful this is done. 

Now, to get the tree person and electrician here. This should not be so difficult as it is. I don't want to bug them or let them forget us. Just now, neither answered.

I just called my two friends who are older and ill. The older, 93-yo, did not answer. The other said she felt awful, had gone to bed and call her another time. That was a 16 second call. 

While directing Tommy to make spaghetti, I did stupid things. We finally got that corrected and had spaghetti and salad for dinner. 

We now have a glucose meter! Neither Tommy nor I can get a response from his endocrinologist or nurse. I think Tommy has cut back from four Diet Pepsi to two. Keeping my fingers crossed. 

The house next door is on the city council agenda tonight for trash, weeds and other items. Mowing did not help the looks or satisfy the city. Vines are growing up the brick, the kind that cling to the brick. The rails up to the front porch have vines and weeds almost three feet high. The pool liner is in the front yard. The broken-down pool is in the side yard. The piano they put on the front porch when they moved in is surely ruined by now. The trash can has not been put at the road for weeks, and trash is hanging out. A person can barely walk in the carport for all the trash.  It looks derelict. The city will get bids to clean it all up and a lien will be put on the property. 

A house two doors down has carpet padding on the front lawn, and back yard has not been mowed in months, so that one was on the agenda to be discussed tonight, too. I went to city council website and looked at the agenda. That is how I found all this info. I can watch a video of city council meeting and see what was said.

Tommy is eating his favorite potato chip--cheap ones. Plus, they are his favorite type--thin ones like the original ones. I cannot see the point in eating these, but, invariably I ask for a few. They disappear in my mouth. I prefer Lays or Ruffles. Do you like these lightweight chips that disappear in your mouth or something a little more hefty and with some mouthfeel? 

Have you ever watched a city council meeting on video? Have you ever been asked to attend to defend your neighborhood or a certain position? I was asked to attend to stop an apartment complex in our neighborhood. I ended up speaking. 

Congestion, Tommy, Precaution

 Monday morning, well noon, I was not so wobbly. I tried to walk without holding on to walls, tables, door facings. But, all of a sudden, I was wobbly again and stumbling about. I really fear falling and having to call someone to pick me up. So, I will be wall-holding the rest of this day. 

After Tommy bought the $150 device, he spent hours, it seemed, reading the massive sheet of paper and a little booklet that came with it. At one point, he stopped and said he needed facial oil or some oil for skin to get the old monitor off his skin. He looked dejected because it was dark, late, and he did not have any oil. I told him to use olive oil. He was skeptical, and I told him I was positive it was okay. He followed my directions and poured a spoonful into a small bowl. 

I thought he wanted me to help, and I was dreading helping because of the way I feel. But, he went into the kitchen and changed the monitor himself. I felt so awful, I don't think I would have been much help. He managed to do it and it works. Great! 

Usually when the sinus congestion gets better, there is a great loosening that chokes me. This time, I am just having a dribbly nose. At this rate, it will be weeks before this lets up, lets loose. 

The potato salad was/is good. I used a whole Vidalia onion and forgot to save half of it for Tommy to eat or to go into another dish. Consequently, it seems once again, I have made onion salad. The natural consequence of eating so much is unpleasant about an hour later. 

Obviously, I won't make my colonoscopy. So, I need to call about that. 

It appears that the rain is over here. A tree fell on a home with two floors. A woman died when the tree hit her in bed upstairs. In my two-story house, the two children who had a bedroom on the second floor always slept downstairs, often in our bedroom on a pallet and the baby in her playpen. Even if their bedrooms were not hit by the ancient oak right outside their rooms, I wanted to be able to put my hands on my children if the house were damaged at all. This one precaution would have saved an elderly woman Sunday night. 

We only felt it was necessary to take refuge in the basement once. On other stormy nights, not expecting falling trees, the youngest slept in her baby bed, even if she were five or six. Her sister slept in the full-size bed the baby now occupied, and son slept on a pallet. My children did not mind sleeping on a pallet anywhere we went. They slept in the bed they were told to use for sleep. They gave up their beds to company when I told them to do so. They were always accommodating. 

Tommy is now cooking and chopping ground beef for spaghetti another day. Then, I will try to get chicken cooked so I can make Mediterranean Pasta with the chicken another day. I don't want to wait until both meats are ready to go off. 

We plan to then watch two episodes of The Antiques Road Show. We both love it. Thankfully, the flowers were watered by a torrent early this morning, so he does not have to go out and water. 

The chicken did not get cooked. Nor did the spaghetti. There is always tomorrow. 

I feel worse tonight than this morning.

If you have a two-story house, do you at least sleep downstairs if storms or tornadoes are about?

National Memorial Day Concert

 We went out to Public for bogo I forgot and to get my med for sinus, and Tommy forgot to stop for med. 

He went back and I went to bed. Called cleaner to cancel. Went back to bed. 

Finally, we cooked one huge hamburger and cut it in half. Even then it was largest burger I have ever seen. We had slaw, potato salad, tomatoes, cheese, and lettuce on burger. 

Maybe I can sit up long enough for the production of the National Memorial Day Concert. No, I am not better.

Tomorrow--REMEMBER! and HONOR! amidst the festivities.

Dizzier Saturday

 I am worse today. Dizzier. Malaise. Sleeping more. Having to monitor Tommy more. 

This morning, I did not go with him to pharmacy. He went along in the afternoon and forgot to get my antibiotic. 

Now, it is 5 pm and he is letting his blood sugar go lower and lower. So, I refuse to go with him or him go alone. 

This morning, my chest was tight, hurting when I breathe. I am coughing. Covid test is neg or something. I may have in my loopiness may have done it wrong. Second one, I did not read soon enough. 

I was going to grill burgers tonight, but will fall for sure. I cannot stand to put them on stove and cannot trust Tommy to cook them. So, I want a Whopper. 

It is hard for me to drink enough water now. I have to force myself to drink water. I know that will help with the sinus problem. Typing is a chore that I do not do very well...lol. No telling what I may write. 

Tommy paid $150.00 for another monitor to stick on his arm. Total bill for him was over $700. Between pharmacy and Medicare, no one is claiming they dropped the ball with Medicare paying for part of this amount. 

So, need to go get my med that he did not get when he went to pick up his. And, a Whopper is in my future. 

Tonight, we are making potato salad. YAY!

Big Bust on Med and BK run:

Walgreens pharmacy was closed at 6 pm because it was Saturday. So, no meds.

At BK we ordered two Whopper, Jr and two fries for $5.99. We brought drinks. We drove to the park. Fries had no salt. We can do without salt. My Whopper Jr. had no cheese and had onions and catsup. I ordered Whopper with cheese, tomato, and lettuce. Tommy order no pickle or mayo. Neither got what we wanted, but we were eating each other's sandwich, a complete screwup. We left the pleasant park, took it all back. We came home and ate, finally. 

I saw they had Hershey Pies, so got one of those. They discontinued these once and now they are back at more than twice the price. Since I have barely had anything to eat all day, I will not beat myself up over the sandwiches, fries without salt, or pie. 

We saw a car Model A, Tommy said. We found it and flagged it down. Guy was nice and had restored it. He told us where he lived and invited us to drop by ad look at it better. I think we will. 

Eggs are on to boil, and Tommy is peeling potatoes. We will have sliced tomatoes with this for a meal, maybe tomorrow. Maybe with lima beans and some meat.

Dizzy Friday

 Today, I was not better, but not worse. I still hold onto things to walk. 

The washing machine mechanic came today. Tommy said he pulled off the knob that controls water depth, stuck a screwdriver in and did something. I wonder how much that will cost? He told Tommy the reason it makes such a noise is that the shocks are shot. There have been days I thought the noise was a thunderstorm because of the rumbling on the concrete floor. He said that eventually the shocks will break, and the machine will tear up. 

The machine works now, so Tommy washed my sheets that were changed the other day and a load of my towels, panties, and nightgowns. The mechanic said he might be back Tuesday with shocks. We will try not to wash too many loads. 

When I went into Publix, I was so dizzy I thought I was going to fall off since I still do not have my balance. Except for bananas, all I bought was bogo--Cheerios, hamburger buns, 

Tommy received three insulin pens, all different ones, but not the monitor to stick on his arm. Is this doctor crazy? I will call again and reiterate that he will have to have the EMTs, fire department, and possibly the police visit to get him straight. Maybe he will pass out. Maybe he will have a wreck! My nerves have just about settled, now getting worried again, wondering when I have to deal with this again. Why do we have to deal with this? Are we guinea pigs?

Today, was a beautiful, hot day. My flowers sook so pretty now that Tommy deadheads then. Last year, I had a blackberry bush that gave me four blackberries. One cane grew about four feet long. Finally, I stuck the end in the soil. I suppose it is okay to cut it since has leaves from one end to the other end in the ground. Maybe I will have more blackberries this year. I learned last year that the bush had too much sun, so some parts of berries turned brown. I need to put these where they get some shade instead of blazing sun all day. 

Are you in an area where bad weather is expected? 

Did you know washing machines had things like shocks? I certainly did not.

Are you planning a big Memorial Day Celebration? Family? Parade? 

Edit: I think I have covid.

Customer Service in South Africa

 First, I am not better--worse. I will call a doctor tomorrow. I did not go to sleep early on Wednesday night, but I did sleep once in bed. I suppose I only slept for about five hours. 

The mower came. The appliance repair guy showed up about ten minutes before we needed to leave house, so left. Tree guy does not answer or return calls. An electrician guy did not show up or call. 

Tommy is eating and will get my dinner when he finishes. 

I had to call a customer service for one of the rings. The woman who answered had an accent I could not place. So, I asked her. She was in and is from someplace in South Africa. I told her that I could understand her perfectly even with a strong accent. She gasped and thanked me, laughing giddily. She said she was so pleased. Except for a guy in Mumbai who studied in England, she was best I had talked with. She said she studied in a school, Catholic college. She said she learned under white people and that was why I could understand her. He obviously spoke Standard English. Of course, anyone whose native tongue was English could teach her to speak this well. She said she was Black and speaks Xhosa. 

She kept thanking me for thinking and saying she spoke English so well. She said I made her day. She even knew our sayings. Plus, she solved my problem easily. 

I cannot walk well, trying to fall. But, a walker would not help because I could topple it. So, I hold onto walls and furniture. 

Now, I am watching Gunsmoke with a stellar performance by 'Colonel Potter.'

I called my two friends in Cullman tonight. The older one who fell and had stitches in her head is still irritated her children hired a cleaner to come three days a week. However, this woman drives them to the store and to lunch today. The other is still hurting from falls, too. 

The cleaner from here just called at 9:30 and will come Sunday afternoon. I think emptying and sorting the freezer will be in order. Maybe not.

Thrashing About All Night

 Since we were going to Cullman for lunch, the dentist, and to visit 93-yo friend, who fell and take her a late birthday flower, I really needed to sleep on Tuesday night, I was so disappointed. For some reason, I thrashed about all night. In the past I have turned over. Now, it takes much effort, hence the thrashing. Then, every thirty minutes, I had to go to the bathroom--more thrashing to turn over and get off bed. 

My legs were still swollen from two days ago. I was honestly miserable. Finally, I decided I was too cool. I tried to lie still. Then, I reached for my thick wool blanket. I sat up. How did I manage to throw it off the bed. Well, once on my feet with light on, I could see it never was put on the bed. The cleaner failed to put it back. I was watching her, and approved of the bed-making, so partially my fault. 

That meant I had to flop the wool blanket on the bed several times to get any semblance of order. Then, tucking it under was another chore. By this time, I was more fully awake.

Shortly after getting under the warm covers, I quit thrashing trying to get comfortable. I wanted to get up and leave a note for Tommy so he would not go to the trouble of getting ready and coming to call me. But, I heard him up and called to tell him 

I slept until noon and slept well even though it was not for long. I sit on the side of the bed since I fell and get my bearings before I stand. This time, as soon as I stood, I became so dizzy but managed to get to the commode. I was afraid to try to get up. I had Tommy come to the door, why I don't know. I held onto both walls to get down the hall, and to door facings to go into living room. I bent and held tables to my chair. 

My nose and cheeks felt like I had 100 pounds on them. my sinus infection was horrendous. I got a Hall's MenthoLyptus, later a cup of hot chocolate, then lots of water. 

At 5 pm I had cookies and milk. At 7:30 a whole banana. At 8:30, I became a serial eater--chicken and tomato on a bun with MW, I ate the little orphan tomato in my hands because I did not have a knife. Then, I had chicken and bbq sauce with slaw. Ate rest of slaw with diced tomatoes. Then, I ate greens that had cooled to below furnace temperature. 

About 6:45, I begged to go get the banana I ate because I had none. So, we missed a bit of Jeopardy to go get it before dark. I went down the ramp gingerly, walked to bathroom gingerly. 

Today, I have done nothing but sit and read on computer. Pressure in my face has been unbearable. The only other hot drink I have is chicken broth, too salty, I think. 

About two hours was spent trying to figure out why Tommy has no prescriptions filled at pharmacy. Well, one costs over $700, but down to $176. The other is $70, still high. The one thing that is upsetting is that the monitor that sticks on his skin is only good for 10 days with a day of grace. But, the doctor has scheduled a telehealth visit for three weeks out to see how it is working for him. I told the nurse that this was the longest he has gone without a call to emt. IT WORKS! But, without it, I don't know what will happen if he passes out again and hits his head again. Maybe they will pay attention. But, I cannot get the monitor without a prescription. 

Hopefully, I can manage to beat this congestion that is making me dizzy. 

Tommy went out to take my sheets to laundry room. The washer will not work! Great. So, it will be Thursday before he can get a repair guy. So, we will take them to laundromat tomorrow. The machine runs water for a few seconds and shuts off repeatedly. 

For all the problems today, it was a very good day except for Tommy's prescription needs. It was very warm, 90F. I love it. 

I still have not heard from tree trimmer, electrician, or mower. I just did not feel like making those calls. Now, I can add appliance repairman if we can get him...lol. 

Tonight, I think I will sleep well with no thrashing about. Now that I had a warm blanket on the bed and legs will not hurt because they are no longer swollen, things will be okay. 

I hope all you will not have bad weather. 

If you are still having allergy problems, maybe you will get better. This is rough. 

How is life at your house?

 

Do You Eat In Middle of the Night?

 The cleaner is here for two hours. She has made my bed and is now cleaning the bathroom. That is all I expect her to do today. Oh, and I want her to take the Christmas lights off the tomato cage. I don't know why Tommy does not want to do it, but he said he does not want to. Maybe next time, she can help put away the few things that are Christmas and stacked on a table in here. 

I added more things to my call and do list. I have paid two credit/debit cards this morning. 

This is a sore spot with me. Two weeks ago, I called because I 'lost' my debit card, right here in the house, I was sure. Well, the next day, of course, I found it right at my elbow. Since I knew, according to the banker, that my card had been cancelled. Now, a new one had to be ordered. Annoyed at myself, I did not call. I was to expect it in 3-5 business days. I know how that works. Yesterday, I called to see if all was going as planned since the new card was overdue. She told me the debit card was still active and there was no record of a new one being ordered or even mentioned. I was fit to be tied. I had been using Tommy's CC all this time. I am glad I decided to be an annoyance and call about the debit card. Grrr

I still have not heard from the tree guy or electrician or mower. We are expecting rain on Friday, so two of those guys better hurry. 

We went out and I left my phone at home. So, no more phone calls. I was fit to be tied! So, no doctors calls. Nothing. We went to new location of farmer's market and could not find farmers from whom we buy, mostly clothes and junk. Since I was so annoyed, we just came home. I decided I would have a doughnut and that put me out. That and the fact I lost sleep last night, forgot why. Oh, my eye hurt. It felt like I had an eyelash under the top lid. Then, I had to get up for cleaner. 

Tomorrow, I have an appointment to have teeth cleaned. Plus, I do need to make more phone call. The three men who should call will all probably want to come here to do their thing. Nope.

Today, cleaner did make my bed. She forgets what I want done to bed, so I stay to see it is done correctly. The bathroom was cleaned top to bottom. Tommy washed rugs and put them back. The Christmas lights are down and in box. Progress!

Tommy jumps when the monitor goes off. He ate at 4:30 this morning. I hate he has to wake up to eat. But, he goes right back to sleep. And, he still writes in his spiral notebook. Does anyone else have a monitor that goes off during the night? Do you get up and eat? I only mean after a monitor goes off!

Accomplishments Today

 After reminding Tommy to keep a food diary, he did not. The next day, I asked him. He said he forgot. Then, he was searching for small pieces of paper. I gave up trying to deal with that foolishness. That was Friday. Sunday night, I saw him writing in a large spiral notebook and asked him what he was writing. Answer--food diary. 

Monday, I started about 10:30 making calls. I gave  that up to read blogs and comments. We went out to do something, forgot what. I had him buy four pool noodles, one each of the four colors I saw--pink, green, blue, and orange. The orange is a foot shorter than the others. I think they are two different shipments. So, we will go to another DG to see if the longer ones come in orange. Probably not. Maybe I will just have three lollipops for Christmas display. There will probably be ones in yard sales or on side of road.  We had gone to Walgreen's to get his prescriptions promised today. No, they were not in yet!

The too small ring issue was solved, and the right size is on the way. 

Sent egift card to granddaughter from Amazon. 

Electrician coming to put up three light fixtures.

Called Walgreen's CS to get Tommy's rewards put on his account.

Called tree service and no call as promised to me.

Tommy got my Dawn from under sink.

Found out when lunch served at church.

My debit card was lost. I called over 12 days ago and should have received a new one in mail. Bank has no record of my having called. BAD WORD! Since nothing has been done by the bank to get cc up and running again, one cc account earned a late fee! I am very unhappy. 

Paid two cc cards, one with late fee, another without. 

I used my umbrella to stay sort of dry coming into the house about two weeks ago. It has been in here while I intend to take it out. I asked Tommy to try to remember. Today, I asked him to take it and put in my seat when he collected the mail. So, it is now in the car...clutter lessened. 

For a little over an hour, I lay down. Then, still not asleep, I heard a huge booming avalanche type crash and rumble. I thought he fell. No, it was an avalanche from the big freezer. I got out of bed too fast and almost fell in the bedroom and in hall. So, I bent to get the things and almost tumbled all the way down. He did find chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks. 

That is 13 items off the list. Some calls required calls to find where to call for correct number. 

I had breakfast, then lunch, too. It has been a productive day. I still have several more calls to make at 6 pm...so I will see what I can do.

Now, he is watering flowers. He also did a load of kitchen linens. I see him deadheading. Good. 

The customer service person in SA was most pleasant cs representative I have talked to since the one in Bombay.

Thinking about lights after I talked to the electrician, I asked Tommy why he got so furious when I brought light bulbs from my storage to put in fixtures here. He said it was like I was taking over his house. That hasn't happened yet. 

So, made 7 calls and about 6 other calls to find some of those numbers that worked. Five other things that needed to be done happened because I made them happen or encouraged Tommy. He washed the kitchen linens because he had few dish cloths and dish towels. He often does take the initiative. 

We both need to work on dinner so we can see Jeopardy.

We did not make it, so will fix dinner after Jeopardy. I will make cole slaw. He will have chicken legs, and I will have a cheeseburger with lettuce and tomato. We will both have slaw. 

The last slaw was the worst I ever made. I dumped too much apple cider vinegar in it. Yuck.

I think I can get in one more call.

This day has been beautiful. Tommy has been calm. A good day. 

I added another three calls.

How was your day today? 

Did any phone calls occur to straighten things our or to make plans? 

Monday Plans

Today was a beautiful day, the kind that makes your heart sing. We went to Publix and nothing much else. I wanted slaw, needed otc, and food for prep for gastro visit. I slept 8 hours last night and did not nap. I wanted to nap but would rather watch America's Funniest Videos. 

Tommy opened a can of chicken and ate last of some vegetables. 

I made four calls and none of the businesses had anyone at CS desk. I made a list of ten places to call tomorrow, and I just thought of five other places I need to call. ugh So, my day is planned for Monday. 

Tommy filled a concrete pot with no hole in the bottom with soil and watered it in preparation for planting carrots about a month ago. So, he needs to get the pot I told him to get and start all over so we can plant carrot seed. He got the sunflower seeds for me, so we need to plant those. That will happen tomorrow, I hope.  

I told Tommy to call his homeowner's insurance and ask them to try to collect for the tree limb being cut from our yard and clothesline. He thought it was a good idea. Who knows what will happen? 

He is doing well with the meter still. I sometimes want him to get his blood sugar level to see what a particular food does to the level. He willingly looks to see. I imagine he wonders how a certain food affects him, too. 

I heard from Tommy's friend's wife. The friend is still in hospital and has headache. That is all I heard. 

My plan for homemade Christmas yard decorations is coming along. The pool noodle to made lollipops are $1 each at Dollar General, while the pool noodles are $3.54 at Big Box. Those may be larger than ones at DG. Not sure, but cheaper is better for me. When it gets drier, I will wash the mailbox well, and spray paint it red. I don't want lots to do nearer Christmas and in cold or wet weather. I expect to get leftover PVC pipe for the lollipop sticks. I must work on this each month to get it done in time and cheaply. 

Another plan--I have about ten pounds of Granny Smith apples. I want to cook some of them because we will never eat so many. However, I want them as low carb as possible, so I won't make a pie or anything else with pastry. I don't demand lots of sugar in these tart apples because I actually like them tart. Well, if Tommy really wants it I will. I am thinking sugar, cinnamon, flour, and butter, maybe cooked in the crockpot. It looks like my Monday is filling up fast. 

We do need to go to Cullman one day, so I need to schedule plans for tree cutting and mowing on another day. Yes, that makes two more phone calls I need to put on my list. 

Do you ever make more plans than you can ever get done for one day? I figure my list for the next day is already done with the leftovers for next day. A couple of my calls will be long and arduous, maybe even confrontational. Others will be 30-second calls. 

Do you have long-term plans and short-term plans all the time? 

Surprising Way to Store Citrus Fruit

 Your Citrus Fruit Will Last Way Longer If You Store Them This Way (msn.com)

Have you ever heard of this way to store citrus? 

Cleaning on Saturday night is cancelled. Good. What was I thinking?

Tommy was up at 4:30 as his sensor went off twice. I heard it the first time and let it ride. I woke him after the second time. 

Hours later, it went off again. He ate peanut butter sandwich and an apple. It seems he needs to eat at least ever 3 hours to keep his blood sugar above 50. 

He is supposed to record food he eats. But, I had to insist since he has recorded nothing. He wants the tiniest scrap of paper possible to record this. No, an unused 5x7 notebook is too large. Any slip or scrap of paper works for him. He seems not to want to write anything as he goes, just do it all on once at the end of the day. sigh sigh sigh 

But, he is not denying he needs to eat since he put on his monitor.  There is no arguing about whether he is fading away. So, it is a much more relaxed atmosphere around here. While we were out, Tommy took back the other blouse I bought that did not fit and had money returned to my debit card. Good deal. 

Cleaner wanted to come after 5 pm today. I agreed, but I am too tired and need to cook dinner and eat, and maybe nap. Her mailbox is full! Okay, she called and was working register and could not answer phone. 

I am cooking four preformed hamburgers with cooked Vidalia onions. There is cheese and a bag of salad, so that will go on my hamburger, not sure what Tommy wants on his hamburger. We will eat sliced tomatoes, mine on the cheeseburger.

We were going to Publix after trip to Walgreen's, but I could not remember what I wanted, so we just came home. Good thing, too. As Tommy was coming into the house, rain started. It was heavy with little wind. So, it watered the flowers and did not rip my flowers apart. 

Last night I called a friend of Tommy's to see how his visit to a doctor went. He was extremely tired and could only stand for a little bit. He said his wife somehow got the doctor to say he cannot drive. He is 70, grew up  next door for Tommy for 20 years, best friend of Tommy's one-year younger brother. This guy was born two days after Tommy's brother. It is strange but I am always the one to call this guy to ask a question or catch up. On Tuesday, we talked. He and Tommy both had a Wednesday appointment for a problem. 

On Thursday, I called to exchange medical conditions, Tommy's and his. I was so shocked when his wife said her husband had a subdural hematoma and was in ICU after treatment in ER. He has to have drill or cut into skull to drain it. Base of brain. Scary. Tommy has not said one word about his friend that goes to same church that he grew up with, he and his brother. 

Today, I have been searching for the electrician Tommy's friend highly recommends. I need light in the kitchen! 

Today was a beautiful day, only a bit of rain. My flowers looked great! I think the neighbors took their cat since there are no more cat prints on our cars and Tommy has not seen the kitty. I like the chipmunk control she provided even if I had to put up with cat prints on the car. 

How was the weather today at your house? I know there were lots of predictions of storms for today. 

Have you ever stored citrus in water? Heard of it?

Right. I wanted to buy coleslaw mix!

Friday and Sensor Success

 Even though the neighbors have been jerks, cruel to their children, and obviously lost custody of two boys, I really hate for bad things to happen to their lives. I suggested to Tommy that we leave a note, telling them to check mail because there was a letter about a lien on their home. He agreed that would be good for them. There are at least two dozen letters, probably more letters in their mailbox. 

Then, I thought it over. She probably thinks I contacted the city. And, she would have it in writing that I opened the letter. I opened a kid's Auburn housing letter unknowingly but took it over and told him. He laughed. I opened a Temu package and found curl enhancer, then looked at the address and name. If it is in my mailbox, I just open it assuming it is mine. Mostly, I see the wrong address first and refrain from opening the envelope. This time, we had three letters for their box. ???

So, we will let it ride. They are adults and can find their own mail. I am quite sure the lien will just be only for a very expensive lawn mowing the city will perform. 

Catastrophe--we ran out of Kraft Cheddar Cheese chunks. Tommy always complains that I am buying too much of this cheese. The last time it was on sale, I refrained from buying any. So, I am out of cheese! 

Thursday night, I did not go to bed until 1:30 and dreaded Friday. The tree guy was coming to removed the limb. So, I thought he would be here at 8 am. It was raining. At about 4:30 am, I went to bathroom, saw Tommy's light on and walked in here to find him gone. He was in the kitchen getting cereal and milk. His alarm on the meter was going off. The sound woke him, warning him about dropping blood sugar--about 52. He ate while I sat here and checked it again. He went right back to sleep. 

So, at this time, I was really dreading the tree guy coming.  I awoke next time at almost noon. The alarm was not going off but his blood sugar was dropping. He ate lunch and I had milk, and we left the house to get the last two ads at grocery stores. 

I bought sundried tomatoes for my Mediterranean Pasta, pb bogo, Passing by the soup aisle, I saw Campbell's Tomato soup unsalted. I rarely eat tomato soup. As a child we mostly had it when we were ill. Then, extra salt was added. I have tomato soup now about every two or three years. I was furious when I got home and read the label because it has so much sugar.

Yesterday, I bought sundried tomatoes for the Mediterranean Pasta I want to make. But, neither Tommy nor I can find the jar. So, I bought another. 

We pass by the market where we got vegetables last year that had to be home grown. I was sure it should be open, but it never was and there were no signs. Today, Tommy slowed a bit and we got a phone number which I called. The time of the market has changed from Wednesday to Tuesday. Location has also changed. No wonder we could not find the market!

Today, I used one of the Tupperware tumblers with lid for the purpose it was destined with me. Sometimes, I want/need to carry milk in the car. It is treacherous to carry a disposable cup of milk since I might spill walking, or in the car. A Ball pint is great, but I don't want to use glass. The Tupperware with lid won't break or spill. The new tumbler worked perfectly for me today. 

Usually Friday in Hueytown is very congested. We almost never make it out of the house until 3 pm or maybe later if Tommy really wants to watch Jeopardy. I hurried him out (why I carried milk for my lunch) and we were out by 1pm. The roads were practically empty as was Publix. The chores were less arduous since traffic was very light. 

Three more of the mesh laundry bags live here. I think that makes seven. We use them for things that get lost and for laundry. One is for his remote sensor. He returned two blouses that did not fit. One was returned to cc I used. He got store credit for the other then turned around and used it for a purchase. 

We returned home in time for him to watch almost all of the first Jeopardy and all of the second Jeopardy. So, it was a good day all around. Oh, I did buy one chunk of Medium Cheddar Cheese for $4.79 instead of the usual sale price of $2.50 or $3. It hurt to put the cheese in my cart!

The person who was showing me glasses said a coating was the solution for astigmatism. I called today to say the antibiotic burned my eye and to ask about astigmatism solution. Just take the Zpak for eye, and the coating helps with glare. No, coating is not the solution for anything else but glare caused by astigmatism.  So, that is settled, and I was correct. 

Today, I am being plagued by callers wanting to sell or give me something health related. These calls are still going at 5:30 pm. 

Do you put a coating on eyeglasses if you have astigmatism?

Thursday Lows and Highs

 Tommy saw an endocrinologist. She gave him new meds and protocols. She did not want to hear a damn thing I said about him not knowing what was going on. He has a patch thing and a little monitor. There is no way I can get a monitor or put monitoring on my phone. She only wanted to hear from Tommy. Tommy has no idea what to do after he is out of it. However, I did tell her a lot before she wanted Tommy to talk. He had nothing to say. He knows nothing, really. She said we had to work things out between us, as though this is just a clash of personalities. The nurse said she is not allowed to try to get him to do what I say. Incredulous! 

On the way home, the gadget went off twice. He did eat a cheese stick and then a meat stick when it went off a second time. This gives us one more remote-type thing to lose--about 2"x3". We search for the two tv remotes, two chair remotes with wire, two phones. It is maddening some days. 

She read the little 'remote' thing and in less than 30 minutes, his blood sugar had dropped 80 points and was heading downward. He seems to respect this little gadget. He ate twice, each time it dropped. 

He stopped to get a $1 burger that is now $2.50.

This morning when I was still in my nightgown, one of my rings came, just tossed on the porch. Tommy got it and I got up to take it. Well, I turned around and bent to pick up something that fell  on the floor. Then, down I tumbled, falling face first into a clean clothes basket. Remind me I cannt turn when I am leaning. Tommy called 911 emphasized I was not hurt, just could not get up...no ambulance needed. Three guys came in firetruck. They used something they called the 'sheet' and stuffed it under me from behind. It had handles. They picked it and me up and dumped me in my chair. They said they were going to leave it, keep it for next time, and it was expensive, so don't throw it away. The ring was two sizes smaller than Tommy ordered. And, I was so excited. I must remember to only be excited sitting down. I fall no more than I ever have, just cannot recover...lol. 

I have called where I got the ring three times, and it seems this will be an ordeal. The ring is supposed to fit my ring finger, not little finger. It does look cute. My knuckles are not swollen in the least, so there is nothing to hold a ring on my finger, especially the little finger. I have reflex sympathetic dystrophy, therefore my left hand has fingers larger than fingers on dominant right hand. I need ten different ring sizes. Only when I buy a ring is this a problem. My left wrist and arm are larger, too. 

We discussed how we needed more pb crackers. Munchies are the best in terms of ingredients, so we will get more and make sure we have them at all times since there is only one package left. It seems he will obey the monitor remote. The doctor handed me a needle with something I can give him if he is too far gone and emt/ambulance has not arrived. We will see if he will submit to me giving him something. He says I am trying to kill him. I could just let him lie in the floor or his chair if I wanted to kill him. I would not have to chance getting hit more than he hits me now when he is out of it.  So many questions. 

I had a relative who was uncontrollable with her diabetes anger and resistance. Finally, she did not know what was going on because of her diabetes. He is probably dead now, too, so no one to ask. 

Did I tell you that the thrift store about a mile from here caught on fire. We thought they would get the stuff that burned and retrieve the rest. Well, at this point, walls are gone, roof remains and the steel supports. The stuff inside now moved outside is just piles of burned trash. We are surprised that so much was destroyed since they let it stand for several weeks without any apparent activity from our viewpoint. We are also surprised the roof remains. It is metal and looks burned. 

I am ready to cook dinner, but had a snack beforehand. I ate Daisy small curd cottage cheese with cooked blueberries over the cottage cheese. I was telling Tommy it had an abundance of protein. Of course, he hates cottage cheese. Daisy Cottage Cheese, has the fewest ingredients. I am grateful my mother taught me to eat cottage cheese with peaches.  Do you ever eat Daisy? 

Do you have any hints to getting a resistant person out of it from diabetes blood sugar drop to cooperate and drop the combativeness? Do you or have you ever had anyone like this? 

My Neighbor's Mail, Emergency Eye Exam Found Blog Post

 Today, there was no rain forecast, so it was time to go get my mail in Cullman. There was only once piece worth anything. It had been about two weeks, so it was time. 

The pick-up church lunch was today, so it was a good day to go up there. The lunch was a chicken breast, green beans, potatoes, and a roll and a sweet Little Debbie treat. After we delivered hers, we pulled forward a bit and ate in her very shady driveway lined with Hostas. She divided Hostas for years to get this lush edge to her circle driveway. We had a pleasant atmosphere to eat today.

One of my older friends has a hard time walking. I told her about this place. Today, as we went up, I told Tommy we would pick two meals up for her and her son. I called and could not reach her...about six times. I decided to go ahead and get the meals and maybe she would be home by the time we arrived. 

She was not home after we drove twelve miles beyond Cullman! I have known her since 1980 and knew she would not care if I went into her house. So, I did. I knew where the refrigerator was, walked straight in and moved the milk over and put the two plates inside. I left a message saying what I did. She called, thanked me, said it was okay I that I went inside when she was not home. Also, I know her daughters who live across the street, plus, even if the police were called to me, she would say it was okay. 

As I was trying to step up into the house, about a five-inch step up from the porch, I had to put the food inside so I could haul myself up. As I raised up, I saw a huge grab bar that I used. It was quite hefty. 

When we talked, I asked her where she got it. Her son who drove trucks for a living had it. Her grab bar was something that goes onto a truck! She said he cut it and screwed it to front door, one on back door and another by her tub. It was amazing. 

I had been telling Tommy we needed a grab bar between the doors. Now, we will have one put up. I bought three for $3 each at a yard sale about three years ago. Even though he said I could not put them up, he wants them now. 

Now that I have driven abut 25 extra miles to deliver her lunch, I will let her son do it from now on. My 93 yo friend did not get lunch. Somehow, her son did not get one for her. When she had a car, she always drove to get lunch. 

We got three letters in Tommy's mailbox. I opened one before I knew it was not ours. It seems the city of Hueytown is going to put a lien on the house next door that has the barking dogs and tall grass if they do not mow their front and back yard. It seems have grass over 12 inches high is illegal. We drove the mail to their house and I opened the box from the car to put the mail inside. It looks as if they come by and don't get their mail! I have NEVER complained about the grass. The letter said "numerous people" had complained. 

I had made an appointment for an emergency visit to eye doctor in Cullman. If you remember the nurse/tech that popped my blue mask into my eye and threatened to make me leave without the test last year, well this is ongoing problem with my eye. Finally, this last week, I picked at the scab that was on lid between lashes and eye. There has been a hard spot there for months. It made my eye water and hurt. After I picked at it, it really hurt. 

The doctor said there was a stye starting to form. I imagine that making it raw opened the way for bacteria. Now, I have two antibiotics. One is to take and one is to put on eye. 

While I was being examined by everyone, I asked if I could get an exam for glasses. So, I now have a prescription for glasses. I asked for my astigmatism to be corrected. The woman told me my glasses needed a coating to fix my astigmatism. I have never heard that and cannot find that anywhere. 

When I asked about an eye exam last week, this place had no openings. The doctor was the one who okayed the exam for glasses today, not the front desk.

This morning after I had six hours of sleep and went back to bed, I did sleep another hour and a half!

No questions. I am too tired.

Sleep, Tomato, Reading, Limb, Neighbors

 I am up at 4:30! I awoke just before 4 am. Why? I listened to my body and went to bed at 9:30 pm n Tuesday night. I am shocked at my decision. But, I had a busy day. Doing nothing, it appears. I want to go to bed at midnight and awake around 8 am.

Yesterday, we had a tree guy come to give an estimate for taking the tree limb hanging over the yard. The last estimate and only other estimate was for $1350. One limb. 

This guy gave us two estimates per my request. One for taking it down and carrying it. One for putting it on the ground. The plan was to defray our cost by allowing someone to take it for firewood. The tree is oak. The cost for cutting, removing, cleaning the yard was $300. The cost for putting it on ground. $200. 

When I was handed to two costs, I was shocked and read it twice, read it aloud. I told Tommy we should not get the other estimate, just let him get the limb. 

Can you believe the discrepancy in the two bills? The guy appeared to be lucid. 

I never see the neighbors with the dogs. I just report what Tommy tells me. However, today, I saw one of the mothers getting out of the car. The dogs were barking like mad. I suppose they miss the family and were hungry. I wonder what happened to the other dogs and the cat, though. I told Tommy I think they have no electricity. He didn't think so. Well, he came in after me and said she went in and turned on no lights. He saw her go in and on another trip to the car saw her exit the house. Since she turned no lights on, he does think they lost electricity. 

I just hope the children are okay since at least one of these women are cruel. This seems to be a family in crisis. In times of stress more abuse occurs. 

Weeds are two feet deep and toys are still strewn all over the yard. The liner for the swimming pool is lying out in the front yard, killing all the grass. The sides of the pool are falling down in back yard. Of course, all this is on our side of their house next to ours. 

When I went to Lowe's on Sunday and bought the Stella de Oro, I was looking for cayenne peppers and something else in the vegetables/herbs. For some reason, the staff had made a raised bed and put it right on the pavement. Inside the square, there were lots of tomato plants, more than need be in that small space and none were staked. So, you can imagine the jumble. There were many green tomatoes. In the midst and below the tomato jungle, I could see one reddish tomato. I reached down and picked it up. The stem had been split, either from someone pulling it or from the stress of not being staked. The length of the torn tomato stem was healed. 

I finished picking it up since it was detached and put it in my cart. When I got to the register, the woman came around to scan the two things I had. I showed her the tomato and asked if I could have it. She very cheerfully said I could. So, it is on the counter ripening. 

The alarm is set for 9 am when I need to get up, wash my hair and leave by 9:30 am. I really hate that is four hours away, and I am up. However, I doubt I will be able to go back to sleep. I slept my seven hours I require. Still, this is why I never go to bed early. Even if I evolve into an early bird, I will be ready to go back for a nap before noon. There is not much to do this time of the day without disturbing Tommy. I cannot read a book until I get new glasses. 

I 'lost' my debit card. It has been two weeks. My cc does not work. I am even out of the bank's system. I did not use it enough. HA! On Monday, I called the bank to replace my debit card. On, Tuesday night, I found it. Isn't that the way it always happens? 

Today, I have an appointment for an emergency eye exam. It has been almost a year since the tech for the stress test popped my mask into my eye and refused to remove it so the edge of the mask was not hurting. The eye in the outer corner is still giving me problems, hurting and crusting. Today, I will see about that. The reason I have waited so long is that I kept thinking it would get better. 

Alabama is screwing up educational progress once again. I am just furious. When I was in first grade, I was astute enough to know that the reading groups were not just chosen at random. I realized everyone in my group were the best readers. My son was removed from his classroom and taken to a 'special' room. He tested very low at the end of first grade. So, I sat my pregnant self down and we read all summer, despite his objections. (He learned to love reading and is now a high school English teacher.) They put him in group wrongly based on six-month old scores. He was humiliated and complained every day for a month that all the other people in the class were stupid and could not read. I had a baby the end of September, so was not even aware of what was happening. They illegally put my son in some sort of program with numbers. I trusted a very good system and it failed us. How much failure is happening in other schools without stellar records? 

I suppose I need to go and at least lie down to keep my feet from swelling ahead of a busy day in the car. I am not going to edit this post at all. 

Do you ever find random tomatoes? Or, any normally cultivated food? 

Do you have neighbor children or families you worry about? 

Have you lost a cc or debit card, only to find it as soon as you find it?

Can you think of any reason in the wide range of cost for limb removal?

Have schools failed your child? 

Tommy's Appointment and Two Freebie Tales

 I had trouble finding the doctor where Tommy received a referral. The name is hyphenated, And, I had never heard either name. I think she may be Indian. However, I only knew the first part of the last name, the way we both received a referral. My appointment is the end of June, and I made it three weeks ago. So, Tommy was given an appointment for July 5. I explained the situation, that I was fighting to keep him alive and calling 911 multiple times each week. 

The receptionist immediately gave me an appointment for this week. YAY! And, there is no rain predicted. In the meantime, I will call back to try and get a sooner one for me. I was lucky because someone had just this morning cancelled a first-time appointment. 

Two weeks ago, I complained to a well-known company. I have to keep the name and product a secret. Once, I told a friend about something sent me for free that I was begging to buy. This 'friend' called the company and demanded the 'free' item because they gave it to me for free. So, I cannot reveal this company. Actually, two branches of the company sent me a free item which was composed of a box x 2 of the product. I called back to explain the mix-up and how I got two boxes, a total of 24 boxes. I explained I wanted to pay. The woman I talked to was furious, saying someone called and demanded free items. I apologized, telling her I knew who it was and she was untrustworthy. The woman understood that type person. 

When I was trying to buy this product, I was told it was sold in Nashville, Atlanta, New Orleans, and some place in Mississippi. Now, this product is sold in every store in this area. Once, before it expanded to this area, I was in Atlanta for a week for a business trip. A bunch of us had the shuttle van take us to a store. When I came to the register with this item, all the people with liquor were shocked, asking me how I could cook that in the room and why. I cannot tell you the product but think something like oats. 

Now to the present product. 

I called with three products on the table beside me and sizes and upc for each written down. I pointed out this was my all-time favorite of all brands and all flavors. I recounted my disappoint with two of the products and what I expected. One item met with complete satisfaction. She was taking copious notes and asking questions. She said all this would go to proper people. Two of the products should have been the same but weren't. 

After about 15 minutes with her, she said she would replace all three. I assured her one product was perfect like I had reiterated. She insisted she would replace it too, so three coupons were coming my way. She asked again the sizes and upc. Then, she said she would send a check to reimburse me. I argued that the three coupons were plenty. She insisted, saying that they could only reimburse me $18.31 cents. I still objected but she apologized for the 'low' amount. I will never ever buy another brand besides this brand. Amazing? I received the check and am still surprised. 

So, this should help cover the blouse I bought yesterday. I bought a blouse about three weeks ago. It was one size smaller than I thought I needed, but it was blousy. NO. It is too small. So, I bought what I thought was one size larger. It was falling off my shoulder and way too low. I decided I could take up the neckline since it was two sizes larger. Then, I found the blouse again in the size between the too-small blouse and the too-large blouse. Goldilocks is now happy because the new one is 'just right."

Last night, I had an ache across eyes and nose. Teeth were hurting. So, this morning I have such a sinus infection and am choking trying to swallow. I credit privet hedges. All my home remedies along with the usual allergy meds will help. 

In the meantime, I am on the usual 'Tommy watch' for symptoms. 

Have you ever had a manufacturer go beyond expectations to make things more than equitable? 

Tell me about a 'just right' moment. 

Saturday and Mother's Day

 

Saturday was a good day once I had Tommy back on an even keel. He remembered nothing as usual. But, my big tipoff that things were not right is that he had a blanket wadded up in his arms close under his chin. ???

After his pb sandwich, Coke, and big spoonful of jelly (two tablespoons at least), he got up and showered, he ate Cheerios and milk . I told him to eat something else, so he got two sausage patties and two pieces of bread and wolfed it down. 

We had plans but it took forever to get the Bessemer stuff done. We went to guy who sells produce in his yard, probably gotten from Finley Ave market. The tomatoes are huge, no white membrane inside, and always $1 apiece. He had not set up today. Went to Tupperware lady's tent in the grocery parking lot, drove by Lowe's to just look at flowers from car, and at another place. We finally had a Whopper, Jr near a flower place. We had brought a drink from home. Then, we headed off to Jared's and Belk's. That seemed like a long drive home. But, I ordered two rings. I hate a big or bulky ring, but I hope these don't look like they belong to a teen since I saw neither in purpose. 

We went to Publix, and I went in because I wanted chocolate ice cream. Tommy had done a lot of walking on asphalt on a hot day. I found strawberries that are fully ripe, so I am pleased as punch, plus I wanted chicken tenders from freezer section. 

We were both exhausted. He had baked chicken breast, potatoes, carrots and chopped salad. Maybe he had something else. Before we ate, I mixed the salad. 

I had a half cup of ice cream. I am still losing weight, so this won't add pounds. I had chicken tenders and a huge helping of salad. 

I knew the Tupperware lady was in town because she called me at 9 am, just about time I had Tommy acting up. (Of course, he cannot help this once his blood sugar starts dropping.) I found Tupperware popsicle maker that I bought. The $3 one I bought last year is not worth keeping as it is not good for the job. She brought me three more of the key rings with the shape sorter toy I had asked her about. She insisted on giving them to me. I resisted then relented. 

All stores were like Christmas Eve! It was so crowded. I was glad to be out of the crowds lugging around flowers, mostly huge bouquets of red roses. 

I went out to try and see the aurora borealis. Every porch light on the street was on, plus the huge, high bright lights in the park down the street. I could see the moon and stars quite clearly, but in the proper direction the sky was covered with clouds. So, I did not go back out. Bummer!

When I saw every porch light on, I asked Tommy if it was Halloween and people were expecting Trick or Treaters. 

Now, I am back to sleeping at night. It took me a week to turn it around, but I was successful. 

Sunday morning, I woke too early but at least I slept during the night instead of day. 

I asked Tommy what the plan was for the light over the sink. Remember, the other kitchen light needs replacing as does the dining room light. We are down to only the weak light over the stove. He said, "I suppose we need to call an electrician." While out, I found Stella De Oro at Lowe's and bought a fixture for over the sink.  It says it is for a bathroom, but it will go in the kitchen. 

That was my Mother's Day.  I did have a nap, a four-hour nap to supplement my four-hour sleep at night. That was before we went out. 

Tommy is fading and will not listen to me. So, I am not sure what the night will hold. When I try to get him to eat something carb-y, he screams at me, the most demented scream you have ever heard. His mantra is I know what I am doing. I don't need to eat. He did not eat for five or six hours. 

Okay, he made it back from the kitchen, has his dinner, and managed to sit down and not spill anything. 

Does that fixture look like it will go in the kitchen? 

How was your Mother's Day? Anything special? 

Did you manage to see the aurora borealis? A friend in Huntsville got some great pics.

Red to Honor, White to Remember

 

For my mother. 

What I wore when younger

Here in the South in my church, we wore a flower that designated whether each person's mother was alive (red) or dead (white). 

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Was this a tradition in your church?

Incoherent

 Saturday, 11 am

Tommy awoke about 9:30 and I was here and awake for two hours. I cannot complain about my sleep since I have worked around to sleeping all night instead of all day. 

He awoke and talked to me and went right back to sleep. Then, he started acting like he had congestion between nose and throat. He was snorting out and trying to swallow. Well, he snorted it all over his body. For some reason he had his tshirt pulled up above his chest, so it was not a pretty sight after the snorting. 

Then, he put the foot rest of the chair down, but his head was still back with the back of the chair in lying position. He started rocking back and forth as though he wanted to get himself up. He did this maybe for ten minutes really fast and started panting he was so winded. All the time his nasal noises were going. 

Finally, by really yelling loudly, he quit rock on his behind. I got his remote and lifted the feet up and the back. He looked relieved. I made a foldover pb sandwich for him. He ate half of that in bites. Then, he had all 8 fingers, stuffing the rest of the sandwich into his mouth like a baby. I kept yelling at him as he looked sideways at me and stuffed harder, just like a baby/child will do. It was almost funny except for the fact the sandwich had three times the pb in it than I would have put. I was concerned he would choke. He had a can of real coke, too. After that, I asked him if would eat jelly and got him a big spoonful. 

Once I got him sitting up and he ate, he was still not comprehending things I said. He was not violent. 

He refuses to eat pbj sandwich when coherent. So, I did not try to get him to eat that. Now, he is eating two pieces of bread with two sausage patties. Thankfully, I managed to pull him back just in time. He is up and walking, at least. 

We are off to meet the Tupperware lady, to buy me a ring, and maybe eat at Chicken Salad Chick. If I pass calibrachoa, we may stop.

I am a nervous wreck. The weather is beautiful out, so I want to go out!

Resolved

 Last night was filled with furious storms. Today, the sky and small clouds were so beautiful. It was amazing. 

Now, I hear the aurora borealis can be seen this far south. Amazing! 

One item at a time, I am knocking out phone calls and things to do. Today, I started the process of officially firing my endocrinologist. They are giving me all my records. Then, I will tell them I am going elsewhere. Plus, they have overcharged me. Medicare will contact them if they keep billing me this amount. Plus, doc must return monies I have paid him that was not correct. 

I could finally do this after we got satisfaction for the broken walker. Handling several controversial matters at once is too hard for me, tires me so. The owner of business owner told us about four months ago, he would contact the company that produced the walker and supplied it to his business. Finally, I contacted the company and the owner had never contacted them even though he said he was waiting to hear from the supplier. He was insulting to us on phone and in person. 

When I say 'broken,' I am talking about the rod that goes from handle to wheel diagonally. It snapped! If the event had made him fall onto the break, he might have been gutted.

One cleaner cancelled Wednesday because her other job down here cancelled. Then, the other cleaner who I thought was coming Saturday is not. Tomorrow will be set aside for decluttering food--cans and otherwise.

I had a good nap today, and am ready to go back to sleep. 

Looking in the mirror is something I never do...lol. Today, I did with barely anything on. I am soooo fat! Disgusting.

Have you seen the aurora borealis since it is so far south? 

Another Death, New Rollator

 Wednesday night, I think I went to bed before 6 pm woke at 11:30 and stayed up. See, it is hopeless. I sat here all night on the laptop. At 6 am and slept until 10:30. See, I try to sleep and the laptop viewing or TV viewing does not affect my ability to sleep at all. 

Today, we went back to Lowe's. No electric carts available. However, when we went there, the point was to get some sunflower seeds. I told Tommy to just the 4' ones. The 6' sunflowers are too tall for a pot! 

Then, Tommy asked if I wanted to go to the guy who sells produce from his yard. So, we went further into Bessemer. The guy had no produce out. Tommy suggested "going to the church with food." Months ago, we accidentally went by a church cooking outdoors and selling food for the building fund. It was delicious BBQ. Those people cook somewhere else. But, the minister of the church sets up two days a week for the building fund. We bought from him once and he nicely hit us up for a contribution, too. 

We pulled up, got the woman's attention when she finally looked up from her reading. We asked for a menu. She pointed to a sign on the lawn beyond the sidewalk. Neither of us could read it as it was sitting crooked. She was not very accommodating, slowly looking around and then going inside. He brought a QR code for us to use with a phone. I showed him my flip phone. So, he went back in and got his phone, pulled up the menu. 

I suppose I know what we will get every time now. We don't want the fish or ribs. So, a burger it is. We both had a cheeseburger. My cheeseburger had lettuce and tomato. Tommy chose fries as a side. I was debating and said I really wanted fries but should just order potato salad. He said he would just give me both at no extra cost. I told him just give me half portions of both. He said it would take about ten minutes. He went in to cook everything. Neither burger nor fries had been precooked. 

It was delicious.  We will go back, but not anytime soon. Next time, I will stop eating halfway through the burger. I will not order potato salad because it was soupy and sweet and I left it. Of course, neither of us wanted or needed dinner. For $26 we were well fed. 

However, before Elkhorn comes on, we will have prepared chicken, carrots, and potatoes in the cooking bag. The chicken was still very fresh. I still wanted it cooked. Of course, there is a thunderstorm and the threat of tornadoes. Thunder is rumbling. I hope we don't lose electricity before the food is done! Okay, food ready.

While Tommy was buying seeds, I called a friend. Her last brother was buried yesterday. She was crying. I was crying. She is the baby girl with her three brothers gone. One brother was a good friend, amazing singer. The other was a pilot. He was killed by being t-boned by 55-year-old female, active drug user as he was making a legal turn and she was driving wrong way and speeding. At his funeral I told her I always thought he would die when his single engine plane plummeted to the ground. We all could accept that. This last brother was the one I knew the least, but we were friends. 

She is so ill that I expect her to die any day. We both sobbed through the call. I promised her I would get her info for Meals on Wheels by tomorrow morning. 

We went to get a new walker/rollator for the one that broke. This one is so much lighter than the one I bought on Amazon. The other is 50 lbs and Tommy has to lift in into and out of the car. So, now we will keep it in the house for whatever, maybe when he has to push it on grass. 

 After knee surgery many years ago, I donated a walker with no wheels, a four-pronged cane, and a bedside commode. I n longer needed them. Now, I never get rid of anything. Inside this house, we have two rollators, one walker with two wheels and no seat, a four-pronged cane, at least six other canes, six grabbers--one in almost each room, and two lift chairs. I have a bedside commode in storage.  

Tommy came in with his dinner after taking the chicken from the oven. He had a plateful of food! I will get a bit of the cold potato and carrots. It looked and smelled great. Two breasts will be eaten this week. One will be saved for beginning of next week, and four breasts will be frozen. 

The noisy thunder and brilliant flashes of lightning are just about done. So, that is good. Today, was a good day. Only the news of a friend's brother's death dampened the mood of the day. Of course, I stayed away from electric carts! 

How was your day? Bargains? Bad Weather? Sunshine?

Do you have a cache of medical equipment at your home?

Rooster, Kazoo, Headset, Food

 

When I went to lunch last week, I sat with a friend I had not seen in years. She is also a friend of the 93 yo friend. She went to her brother's house to see his baby sheep. A rooster followed her to the sheep like he usually did. She turned to go back to the house and the rooster followed along as usual. All of a sudden the rooster ran in front of her and flew up to spur her just above her temple. 

He caused her to fall. Her brother came home to find her bleeding from her head and called an ambulance. She lives far out in the country. She was taken to the hospital and treated. Then, she was flown by helicopter to UAB Hospital because she had a brain bleed. She spent several days in ICU and finally in a room. 

This is just one more reason that I am terrified of roosters. My pet rooster attacked me when I was four. We ate him for Sunday dinner.

While at this lunch, there is always stringed instruments. Singing is optional. As part of the table decor, there were little plastic instruments. I got the kazoo and was trying to play it. I kept blowing into the small end, to no avail. Finally, after I complained, Tommy blew into the large end. Still, that did not work. So, he showed me how to make a noise as I blew. It was not a pretty sound that came out of it when I blew. I suppose that was the first time I ever used a kazoo, maybe the first time I ever saw one in person. Of course, after blowing into the little red kazoo, I brought it home. Practicing has not helped my performance!

I think the kazoo is a regional instrument, so I have no experience with it. 

Last year, I wanted a headset to listen to videos so Tommy would not be disturbed while he was watching TV. So, I got myself on Amazon and bought a Logi or Logitech set for about $20. It hurt my head so that I quit wearing it, and it's been a year since I touched the headset. I wanted to listen to Jeanne Robertson, so I tried them once again. They hurt. But, I used them and hated every minute and into the following day. The next time I put them on, they did not hurt at all. A miracle? Or, ignorance? It appears there is a backward and forward to a headset that is almost identical. 

After I first bought them, I asked a friend in office supply store what kind would not hurt. He said that Bose would not hurt, but were so expensive and broke down because they were soft and kind to head. So, I decided to not use the pair I had. Since I could not afford Bose, I put them out of my mind. I am so glad I decided to try the Logitech I had. Not hurting is wonderful.

I also saw there is a microphone, and I am not sure how to use it. Plus, there is some sort of button on the wire from the headset. Maybe I should have read the directions. I will do that right now. 

Wednesday has been a better day. I only slept a few hours but set my goals low. I looked for flowers in the store I could not shop in because of no carts. A blouse came home with me and a little sample pot of a face cream I like. The huge pots are a pain, so I can refill the small pot.

Wednesday, we should see bad weather. At least there is a chance. So, it will be a stay at home kind of day. One thing I never have to worry about is hot water. Tommy has a gas water heater> of course, all I can do is wash my hair. At my house, the first thing I did when I lost electricity was to wash my hair and get into the tub. I had an electric water heater, so time was of the essence. Even at midnight and in the dark, I managed to get clean. 

At the grocery store I bought a few items: Diet Coke Caffeine Free b2g1, 5 lbs Vidalia Onions, Jimmy Dean cooked sausage patties bogo. Tommy has now completely abandoned the morning sausage and biscuit at Hardees. So, occasionally when these are bogo, I buy these for the freezer. Publix never advertises when they have Vidalia Onions. So, this find and purchase was an accident. Last year, I bought them from other stores for about three weeks until I spotted them at Publix. 

Diet Coke Caffeine Free 12-packs were $6.20 even with b2g1 price and 52 cents per can. Exorbitant! Vidalia's were 5 lbs for $5.99, not too bad. The Jimmy Dean Sausages came in 8-pack for $6. This was a two-for deal, so I had to buy 2 to get cheaper price. JD sausages were 75 cents apiece. Yes, I figure cost per each item in a package. I never monitor what he eats with the idea of curtailing his consumption except for "leave me two of those sausages." So, if he eats all the sausage patties, I don't buy more for many months.

 I still have not looked at all of any of our three ads. We go over the ads and make a list but have not yet.

Did anyone have a bad rooster experience? 

Can you play a kazoo, unlike me?

Does using a headset hurt your head and ears? Do all headsets have a back and front side?

Were there good prices in your local grocery ads?

Roll Tide Roll Yada Yada Yada-One second Auburn

 

I managed to sleep in three 2-hour stretches and was then up about 7 am on Monday morning. We had to be somewhere at 1:30, so I wanted to leave by noon. Do you think we could get out of the house in four hours? (Tommy woke at 8 am) No, we cannot! And, the cleaner was coming soon after four. We had things to do before she came. 

We went to Tractor Supply to look at flowers. I bought yellow portulaca. I think that is what I chose. 

The cleaner came about 4:30. I had a list. She had no idea how to dead head the petunias. She brought the pot inside so I could show her. Tommy told her to take it to the table if she wanted. Of course, I warned her about the legs burying up in the soil. She did take our suggestion of moving the chair to the driveway. Hopefully, these will fill out. 

I cannot stand long enough to dead head, and Tommy obviously hates doing it. 

Since Tommy had the fluorescent bulb put in by our very tall neighbor, I could not get it out to check the starter. Cleaner is almost 6' tall, so she took out the bulb and tried. No luck! I tried to get on the stool and could not, so electrician it is.

About 4:30, I decided to have chicken cheddar pizza on naan, heated in oven as prelude to our late dinners. Wel, Tommy bought the package and parchment paper. It was just plain naan! No pizza. I had read the recipe on the back of the package. I had Tommy bring me a jar of Ragu sauce, chunk cheddar and sliced kalamata olives. It was not the best, but filling. Tommy refused to try it. When I awoke, I asked him what he had for dinner. 

As it turned out, he decided to try the naan pizza--spaghetti sauce, diced onions I had in refrigerator, Five Cheese shredded cheese, and chicken thigh, broken up. He said it was delicious. 

I could eat plain naan for a meal or dessert. 

She sprayed Tommy's bathroom mirror with this stuff that keeps it from fogging. I bought it for car windows since fog on car windows is dangerous with Tommy driving. Just trust me. 

Tommy's 5' long bookcase has not been dusted in three years, so it needed dusting, plus the two clocks on it, and the books on bottom shelf. This piece of furniture is only about 2' high. I hate it. It is another of the paper covered bookcases that is annoyingly in the way. So, it is done for another three years. It really is shiny. 

I had her get down on her hands and knees to look under the back of my chair as I raised it and lowered it several time. It pops and rocks when I raise it. Something is wrong, but I don't know what. She could see nothing. I will call the guy who sold it since he has furniture repair company that fixes these chairs. I really fear it breaking. 

Then, I had her tackle the table to my right. It was piled with all sorts of day planners, receipts, spiral notebooks, mail. Yes, I could do it if back would let me twist or bend. When everything was removed, she vacuumed the top. It has sides, so nothing ever gets to the floor, even clutter. Now, I need to sort papers, copy notes from little pieces of paper and toss. She was fascinated how the vac went to a short tool. Tommy adjusted it for her. Then she did vacuum the area right in front of my chair. 

Tommy has drapery hooks hooked onto a curtain rod. Bless his heart, he knows nothing of these things. So, when I tried to look out the window where the dogs are, about four hooks came loose and neither of us can get to them. I had her put the hooks back on the rod and use packing tape to secure them. You know, I might want to look out that window again someday. 

I think that was all she did. But, $35 later, I am happy with the job done. 

She shamed Tommy for having an Auburn decal. So, I showed her this video. We both rock with laughter when I play this. 

jeanne robertson one second auburn - Search (bing.com) Forgive me. 

Jeanne Robertson - Bama's Rebuttal to Auburn's "Second" Chance (youtube.com) 

As soon as she left, I got my first half of my night's sleep and awoke to Gunsmoke.  If I can sleep just three more hours tonight, I will be okay. Another cleaner is coming Thursday, the one I know from Cullman County. She is short, so she could not have done a few things. 

Oh, forgot to say. I called podiatrist and mentioned to the person with whom I have been talking. When I mentioned Medicare and Fraud, she got the person who I should have been talking with all along. She said that yes, the doctor did send off a piece of my toenail and it was examined by a pathologist. I wonder why no one has told me the result. My question to her--to the tune of over $800? She was shocked and said she would talk to the doctor. Why oh why did the receptionist not let me talk to this woman the other five times I have called??? Why has the doctor or someone not called me for treatment? sigh So many questions. 

Today was an altogether pleasant day. There were no carts involved! It was sunny but with enough sunshine. Tommy is more pleasant with blood sugar under control. 

Tomorrow and Thursday will be stormy, I fear. How is your weather? 

Are you familiar with portulaca?

So, what did you think of the video? This woman is so funny. 

Monday, Monday Was Not Good To Me

 Today was a horrible day! I went out at noon with no sleep and no food. I clutched a list of what I wanted to buy and where we needed to go. I had had no milk for several days. I could drink some of Tommy's milk but the ensuing pain and misery would be too much to even chance it. I mainly wanted fruit, milk, and flowers. Did I say I was miserable? We had a Whopper, Jr. for lunch. Being 2 for $5 helped us to decide on that for lunch. 

I went to Lowe's for flowers. We found a cart in the parking lot. Well, that involved sitting in the sun on a beeping cart. Everyone tried to make it go. Nope, not going. It seems that carts have a new technology. Well, they have beeped for a long time when you get to far from the store. Maybe it was not Lowe's. He brought me a new cart. This one refused to work even when the cart guy dragged the cart and me inside the perimeter of the store where it would work. The guy was all over me when he was pushing! 

Once I got into the store, the cart I had would only run about five feet once it was turned off and allowed to sit. I thought I would die of sunstroke in the heat and sun, so not feeling well enough to continue looking, stopping and going five feet. There were five carts, and none would run. A guy had to push me out the door. 

Next store, cart would not run, either. No carts. I tried to shop for flowers, but Tommy had done a return for me, so I spent too long and was ready to cry. I could not even get to the car. 

We went to Publix. Thankfully, everything went off like a charm. Tommy got bananas and found good Red Delicious apples while I got 3 half-gallons of a2milk, gallon of 2% for Tommy, bread and feta cheese, and educated the employee who got the milk from the case for me. He asked and said he was taking it home tonight to try. I have been wanting Mediterranean Pasta for a long time! So, I shopped for the ingredients. He was very much interested in the benefits of a2milk. I did forget two ingredients but wasn't going to cook Mediterranean Pasta for a few days. Tommy hates almost everything in this dish, but I will make it up to him. 

Since Tommy was using walker, and I was riding, he got the easy side of the store. As usual, he used the self-checkout. He is so fast and efficient. As we were leaving the store, I snagged a carrot cake bar and paid for it at customer service sine I could not bare to go farther into the store.

When we got home, I sat here for two hours and went to bed and could not sleep longer than two hours. Grrr!

Several months ago, I went into Lowe's, and the cart that ran suddenly stopped. An employee brought me another, dragging it! Well, it did not work either. So, two carts are sitting in the middle of the store. The third cart worked. The employee said he would move the carts. Of course, he pulled them both a few feet to one side. I drove off while three employees discussed what they were going to do as they strolled away. 

Today, I received the two Welch coupons, good until last day of the year. It is almost 10 pm. I have had four hours sleep in last 30 hours. And, I have no flowers. NO FLOWERS!

I bought a pretty blouse that does not fit.

Tommy got his own dinner. I have been awake for over two hours and have only had a glass of milk. 

Two of the flowers that I overwintered in the sunless utility room have a flower each. Then, I saw another. Tommy found an onion that was about a foot tall last fall and put it into a pot of dirt, So, it is blooming, too. The other two flowers are strange because one flower was 1.5 inches across. This year, the flower from that pot are a quarter inch across. 

There are other places with flowers, more expensive but more accessible. Not only did I want two for me, I wanted one or two for my 93 y/o friend for her birthday. Besides, the calibrachoa were not huge bunches of flowers in hanging baskets, just half gallon pots.  

On my way to a late nap today, I received a phone call. I saw it was my gastroenterologist, so answered, wondering what he wanted. Well, it was a woman who was very unprofessional, telling me something about death insurance for burial. She asked me my age right off the bat. I said, in a shocked voice, "So Dr %%%% is selling insurance now?" I knew better. She hung up so fast. His number showed on my phone when it rang, but on call list, it is a number from Ohio showing a bunch of names from overseas. I googled it for the names. Have you encountered this scam?

When I answered this call, I was exhausted. My voice sounded feeble and old and I needed to clear my throat. I had been sneezing. I supposed I sounded like I could be scammed. The one question and the change in my voice were probably the reason she ended to call so quickly. 

Monday was a full, tiring, weird day. I can only say that I survived this Monday. 

If you use an electric scooter from stores as you shop, have you noticed a great lack of charged carts in some stores?

Have you noticed a lack of huge hanging baskets of Calibrachoas or petunias? 

A woman in Lowe's, an employee in garden center told me Knockout Roses are no better than any others. Is this true? 

Sunday This and That

 

Somehow, the link yesterday did not match the article. Did anyone else notice that? I will put it in another day and see what happens. 

Tommy said the next-door neighbor's St Augustine grass spread from her yard to his driveway. He cut off the sprigs trying to go over his driveway and dug little holes in his front yard and planted the sprigs. He now has a full yard of St. Augustine, except for one place. It is the little area where sidewalk to front door curves to the driveway. He did this thirty or forty years ago. I wonder why this little section has now become devoid of St. Augustine grass. 

We have eaten without cooking for the whole week. Tommy found cooked chicken breasts and thighs in the freezer, opened cans, ate leftovers, and salads. The frozen, cooked breast was from Jan 23. It was fine, no bad taste or anything. Tommy thought it was okay, too. I saw it in the refrigerator right after he moved it from the freezer. There was absolutely no freezer burn. 

Tonight, I put two chicken breasts, more than one pound of baby carrots and celery in the cooking bag, all seasoned with garlic and chives from the Concord pouch for seasoning. Since we put this in after dinner, it will be done late and refrigerated. 

Tonight, Tommy has been a trial, raising my ire at least a dozen times. If I say 'right.' it is 'left' to him, saying he did not understand me or did not hear me. I asked him to bring me a scant cup of water to chair to put in bag of food to cook. He brought the cup measure less than half full. And, it was very hot water. I don't ever want to use water from hot water heater to cook. He has been told 'heavy metals' and still forgets why. He wants to save water by not running it cold. He figures it is already heated so why not help the cooking along without heating water again. He drives me to distraction with his cheapness. Yet, he is not cheap or thrifty or parsimonious where it would really count and not threaten our health. 

Yes, we do have the hot water discussion several times each week. He uses the front porch light most days even though he says he does not need a light. When I moved here, he did not have one extra light bulb. When I brought a dozen new ones from my storage several weeks later, he claimed he did not need light bulbs. 

He can be good as gold and very kind and spend money, yet his penny-pinching ways that gain so little make me irritable. 

It seems he managed to eat what and when he should and kept himself lucid while I slept today. So, that is great. He seems to be remembering he has to eat more often than he thinks. For that I am so happy. Maybe I can get more sleep tonight. Well, I have not slept at all for the last few nights. 

We have not gone to Lowe's to check on hanging baskets for Mother's Day. So, we must do that this week. Certain flowers are on sale until the 8th. Thinking aloud--We need to go to Publix, Lowe's, and make a return elsewhere. We will need to dodge rainy part of the day. 

I got lucky, I suppose. The cleaner that lives up near Cullman and wants to buy my car is coming on Thursday. The new woman is coming Tuesday.  Mower is coming sometime since he missed last Thursday. He never calls before he misses or afterwards, just shows up. At least he shows up sometime.

Tommy only knew the word ballast and knew nothing about the starter on a fluorescent fixture. Now, we have to get someone to remove the tube, removed the starter, and after we go get a new starter, we need someone to put starter and tube in fixture. Only then can we determine if we need a new ballast. I am all for replacing the fixture with one that takes bulbs. Of course, he disagrees. I do not want to stand under fluorescent and he wants to save the cost of electrician. His motto seems to be to never protect health, just money. 

There were four ladybug succulent planters (4.5") in my trunk--1 hot pink, 2 cherry red, and another less pink one. Each has a plastic terra cotta colored pot with lots of drainage. So, now I need to do something with these because they are so cute. Maybe I will sell three on Etsy and keep one for myself. These are $12.95 on Amazon. I did not pay that much but think I can get $5. 

We are binging on Randolph Scott movies tonight. It is a lovely way to waste time. 

Do you ever watch cowboy channels? We get INSP and GRIT. Oh, he just said we get others. 

Do you think these ladybugs would bring $5 on Etsy?