Painful Doctor Appointment

Slept two hours last night and then had to get ready for podiatrist appointment. It was painful. Tommy's visit was painful, too. 

On the way home, we saw the church that sells food to pay off the church mortgage and bought lunch. It costs too much, but there was enough for dinner, too. I forgot the hamburger had two thick pieces of meat. So, planned dinner will move forward to Friday. 

It is dark and the spooks are out. It might actually rain here, so I brought in the Halloween trash bag with face on it. There is no use it getting wet after a month of no rain. Tommy will remove Skelli in a bit. No one can see him, just his eyes, and no kids will be out coming down this road. 

Tuesday night, I went to kitchen barefooted and screamed and staggered about moaning. Tommy was equally alarmed. I was so grateful I managed to keep my balance. I looked as well as I could and saw something quite large sticking out of my heel. 

When I got to my chair, Tommy looked and saw lots of blood. He pointed out three drops almost as large as a dime on the carpet. I asked him to get the Oxyclean for carpet spray bottle. After I took care of the spots, he spotted another about the size of a quarter. Then, I saw an even larger spot on a white plastic bag that I cleaned off before it dried. 

I still poured blood. That was actually a good thing, hopefully clearing out anything toxic from the puncture wound. Then, I put several layers of a Kleenex on the bottom of my foot.  Tommy could see a cut, doctor could see it, too. She said it seemed okay. 

What did I step on? Tommy dropped a chipped plate on the porch. It was already chipped and was being used under a plant on the table outdoors. Well, he walked in shards. I found another shard in the kitchen. Since Tuesday, he has been too busy to vacuum the kitchen floor or in front of my chair. 

He thinks I worry too much about shards of these cheap plates he has had for forty-four years. They are sort of a Blue Willow pattern and he won't give them up because someone gave them to him. Two went in the garbage Tuesday. From now on we use plastic under plants since he drops stuff. I know plates are prettier. 

The shard was only about 1/4" on each of four sides. That was large enough to leave a cut on my sole near heel. 

Rats! Kids just now showed up at the door. The porch light is off! But, Skelli's red eyes are on. So, Tommy needs to turn those off. I cannot figure out how to turn them off. We have nothing to give kids. Maybe a tiny fake pumpkin? They are gone now, giving up. These are the first in five years. Tommy just told me we have tiny bags of Cheetos. 

On September 28, we had our last rain. it looks like we will get rain later tonight. Tommy went out to remove Skelli. I looked out the door and Skelli was sitting on the walker like we would. Cute! He is in his box he came in, ready to sleep until next year.

Now, on to Thanksgiving! 

First, I need to box up Halloween. The plain pumpkins will stay out until after Thanksgiving. I have fall and Thanksgiving items to add the plain pumpkins, fake pumpkins, of course. I store Halloween and Thanksgiving together.

The weather will remain in 80s for the next week. 

How did Halloween go in your world? 

Are you making lists, mental or actually on paper for Thanksgiving plans? 

Exhaustion and Cancelled Appointment

 My sleep was so messed up that I have been exhausted all day. One time, I lay down for an hour nap, woke in 15 minutes, thinking Tommy had called me. Nope. Lay down for another then minutes, kept sleeping and waking up--about three times in ten minutes. 

So, nothing much was done, just got the laundry ready and Tommy washed and dried. We went out for 3 store ads. I shopped a bit. Good news is that my milk is on sale for 'only' $9/gal. Bad news is that there is a turkey breast thawing where the milk goes. 

One store had all the huge Halloween decorations down. I wonder why. I hope they were not vandalized. 

Quaker 42 oz. Old-Fashioned Oats were bogo, making them $4. Progresso Chicken Broth was bogo. I got one for $1.39. Of course, I needed bananas. 

The turkey breast thawing is going to be frozen for Thanksgiving. Tommy is going to find the frozen cranberries from the first of the year. So, we will have turkey and cooked and frozen cranberry sauce done for the Thanksgiving meal.

I cannot stand up to bake. So, I have a plan. I will get a small, folding table, put it in front of counter, find a chair, and mix things there. I told Tommy he would have to be present to hand me ingredients or whatever I need. He did not moan at all. I think he wants homemade baked goods. I want to bake some for the guy who takes out the garbage and brings in the empty can. 

Pumpkin bread and pumpkin are on the list of things to make. I cannot find a chocolate pound cake recipe to replace the one lost in the house. I want to bake a pumpkin pie without crust. But, Tommy wants a crust. So, I will bake another without crust in a casserole dish. I have not made a pecan pie in ten years or more. I may make one this year. 

I am afraid for us to put out the garbage on Halloween. It seems it will be a good target for vandals. I will probably bring in Skelli when it gets dark. 

We ate our only Halloween candy. Tommy said to divide them up. So, we each had twenty candy corn pieces. I ate both the pumpkins. 

Dinner was turkey, tomatoes, and turnip greens. I think Tommy had the same thing. Not sure since he eats different things than me most of the time. 

Since I have the Impala title, I have called mower about four times. So, I had Tommy call. Mower said "okay." He said not one word more. Tommy screwed up and said, "was he willing to buy the car?" Bad choice of words! Now, it sounds like we are begging him to buy it. I know he thinks he can wait me out until I lower the price. NO WAY! I have other people interested. I have been saving it for him. 

Are you ready for Halloween?

Do you wear a costume?

Have a party or go to one?

Unexpected Shopping

 I thought we had somewhere to go. I had Tommy wake me at 11:30. He did; I ate. When Tommy started the car, he asked me, "Where first?" I told him and he said it was cancelled. What? 

So, I had three hours sleep, washed my hair, got dressed nicely, and we have nowhere to go???

We went to a place with disability equipment. It was a long drive. It was also a disappointment. The more efficient and better employees helped other people. They did not seem to understand what a hoist to put a scooter or wheelchair in a car was. I took my hands and motioned while I said "lift the scooter into the trunk."

He assured us our car would not work, that the hoist would not attach to floor of suv. That news was pretty devastating. Then, after a few minutes he said, "Let me check." He came back and assured us it would fit our Odyssey. I asked Tommy if we said Odyssey. No. So, he had to go check for the CRV. I was frustrated. 

Next question, "How do you want to lift the wheelchair? Your husband?" At that point I was ready to leave. I also said I wanted compression socks. I had made it clear that I wanted them just to the knee. She also said, "I don't know what size you wear. Oh dear! She looked so lost. I told her that I told her I had measurements which she acknowledged and then, obviously, promptly forgot. So, I showed her again.  

I asked the guy how much a hoist cost. $4K. I asked how much the installation cost. $4. $8K for hoist and installation??? No, he laughed. Neither of these people had sales skills. Neither could remember what we said. Tommy noticed, too.

We were sitting right in front of walk-in showers, so we asked about those. They only sell the things to install. Another guy will do the installation. He refused to tell me the name of company who would do the installation. Whew! I can at least check the guy's reputation out online. 

The thing that frustrates me is that there is no large basket available to even buy separately for the scooters. I have seen large baskets available for wheelchairs. 

Also frustrating is the nylon in the compression socks. That would be so hot, even in the winter. We brought home five pages of info. 

We have someone coming to give a price for walk-in shower. Hopefully, this meeting won't be too stressful. 

Do you have a hoist in your vehicle for lifting a wheelchair or scooter into your vehicle?

Confused Monday and Resource to Print

I slept in three sessions to get my 8 hours. When I awoke at  end of second session at 11 am, I finally asked Tommy why Mike and Molly were on Sunday. He had to remind me that I saw AFV last night. I decided to go back for third session to sleep about 1 pm and woke at 3 pm. 

We went to The Pig for Dasani. Contrary to his wishes, I call CS and ask them to get the Dasani in a basket for him. Otherwise, he lifts two 24 packs, rolls them to car on his walker, lifts them into the hatch, and then brings them in once home. He has quit complaining and accepts the help. It is still rough on him. 

We shopped at Publix next. We needed turkey bags for the turkey breast. I did not spend an extra second or another dollar in there. We headed home.

We drove around a neighborhood to see Halloween decorations in yards in a different neighborhood. Since it was daylight, we saw no lights. But, it was enough. Boring enough?

We managed to get home in time to watch most of the news. That was it folks! We had calm, peace, or it was boring, however you want to play it. I have no objections how it is labeled. 

I discovered that even if my fob is in my pocket, just touching the door opens it. That is strange to me. Does your car work that way? 

Google "free printable Halloween book covers." These, once printed, can temporarily cover books to add a Halloween feel indoors. The suggestion was to cover tomes and stack. Let me know if you use this free resource and cover some books. 

Was your day boring?

Still no rain, none since Sept 28. Next predicted rain is Nov 1. 

Skelli

 Yes, we named the bones.

The tomatoes from Pepper Place are delicious. Tommy does not remember where he bought them. I gave him a lesson--always remember where you buy produce. That was you can get the same tomatoes or avoid the booth. He did not know. 

Today, I started the search for a step-in shower. That is the next project. If you have any thoughts on which brand is best or any problems, please let me know. The guy I talked with said it had three walls. I took this to mean three panels joined. Not sure. But, we can find out things that later. I could barely understand the guy who answered the phone.

I have no idea how we will do without a commode until they finish the job. There is a half bath, but I cannot get off that commode and Tommy cannot sit down on it. Tommy does not realize it yet, but the one-inch tile that is all over bathroom and counter will have to be removed. Plus, the window behind the shower is starting to rot out. The commode is new! But, we need this done. Tommy is committed to it. 

We went nowhere, did nothing. I did go out in my gown and get in the car. He drove us one block and back so I could see Skelli sitting in the chair, eyes aglow. 

Our friend needed a name fitting the appearance. We have no idea is this is a male or female. "Skelli" could be either. 

Today Tommy put the pumps on my legs twice since he only did it once on Saturday. These things really hurt. 

It has been a quiet Sunday here at home. 

How was your Sunday? 

What have you named any of your Halloween figures?

Pepper Place Visit

We got up early, at 10 am and left by 11 am. I think the produce market closed at noon, not sure. 

 Pepper Place

"Adjacent to the historic Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, Pepper Place is the link between the redevelopment of downtown Birmingham to the west and revitalization of the old “streetcar suburbs” of Avondale and Crestwood."

The other markets that take the SFMNP card sort of faded early. So, I had $35 left on my card and was determined not to lose the benefits left--$35. I researched all the markets, large and small. I decided to go the Pepper Place. 

Oh My Gosh!  

It was like a huge carnival. There were guys playing music, stalls with handmade items. food booths, produce booths, just everything. I sent Tommy out with my card and his walker. I was in an apartment parking lot on the periphery of the Pepper Place. 

I did get the benefit of sights and sounds of a tiny bit. I was lonely when Tommy left. I cracked the window and heard wonderful music. People were out in hordes carrying away just a tiny, decorated pumpkin to huge bags of produce and bunches of flowers. This spurs me on to get a scooter to ride on. I called a friend who lives in Birmingham and had a great visit. 

He came back and he did shop, not just pick up stuff at one booth. He brought 1 lb. raw, unfiltered honey, 1/2 pint blackberry jelly, 1/2 pint pepper jelly, and six beautiful tomatoes. He threw in $1 because my card ran out. As we drove away, he commented that there were a "hell of a lot of persimmons." I would have wanted some of those. Yes, I will get a scooter soon. I had told him get whatever at the booths,, just get tomatoes. So, he did both. 

Next January I will apply again. This program is in almost all 50 states. 

He brought back a brochure with something about disability services from one booth. Tommy said they wanted to talk with him. He told them he was so tired that he just wanted something to take home and read. So, they let him go without further talk. He did bring me the pamphlet. 

We stopped by Publix for milk for both of us, bananas, and something else. I took a nap when we got home. 

About 6 pm, we installed the skeleton into a lawn chair in front of the ramp. I tied skeleton and chair to ramp. Tommy put his hand into the air, waving at passersby. His red glowing eyes are on until we turn them off. I would love a remote! 

He had dinner and now is having pepper jelly spread on bread.  I will have a very small amount on cracker and cream cheese--one cracker only. Tomorrow, I might have some blackberry jelly on toast and butter. 

Overall, it was a great Saturday. I did wake stuffy and hurting in sinuses. One Hall's Mentholyptus took care of all the congestion and pain. It appears I will make it through the worst month of the year for my sinus health. It makes me deliriously happy.

The weather was beautiful, high 80s, sunny, and, of course, dry.

 Edit: Tommy was amazed there were a few thousand people instead of a few dozens. He was amazed there was so much for eating right there--sandwiches, homemade popsicles, pastries, etc.There were even dish tubs with water and ice cubes for dogs. 

Taking Skeleton to Ace ER Doctors

As we were leaving the house, I got out one of the two Jack o lantern bags. I had Tommy bring me the Coke bottles destined for recycling. I had him put the whole white trash bag into the lantern bag, twisted the tie and dropped it in front of the ramp--Instant Decorating. 

I think I paid a quarter for a package of two after Halloween last year. So, this is 12.5 cents for a bag. Now, I will have another one for next year. The mower mulches the leaves. We could wad newspaper for the bag, but this is easier. The bags in the picture are $5.99 for three.

 I took the skeleton to the Pig/Ace. Tommy had totally messed up one of four screws, trying to get a miniscule screw out of the battery place with a huge screwdriver. Then, he insisted after he removed it, he could get it back in and the tint mauled screw would still work. NOPE! I wanted the correct screwdriver size to at least get out the other three screws. 

I was met by six Ace employees. One employee took right over. The other five got tiny screwdrivers. At one time four were holding the skeleton still. The skeleton still had legs and arms zip-tied to the body. Finally, they got all four screws out. The guy advised throwing one away. So, I did. Then, they took out the three batteries made only for demonstration purposes. They asked me if I had batteries. I did but bought some since they were all so helpful. I figured I should buy from there. Remember, I brought the skeleton in just to buy the right size screwdriver! 

This is the last Halloween decorating. I will go the day after Thanksgiving and buy things. Cheap dishcloths can have Halloween pictures on them and will be ultracheap. 

The titles for both our cars arrived today. I expect the woman who bought Tommy's car will come right over since she has paid for it and wants to drive. I think the guy who wanted mine is not interested. I have several other people interested. Or, I may drive it. 

The day was warm, so pleasant because it was dry outside. Temperature was 87F. 

For dinner I had the rest of the can of Hormel Roast Beef and gravy, sweet potato, and slaw. I made sure not to choke on my food.

I prepared the sweet potatoes to bake after he scrubbed them and went straight for a nap. Tommy left the sweet potatoes in until the oil on them burned. So, I had to peel them to keep the burned and scorched peel smell/taste from permeating the sweet potatoes. The flesh as delicious. He just does not know to check to see if they are scorching, and I did not tell him. I ate a bit and froze the rest, maybe for Thanksgiving. I don't know why, but he did not want sweet potatoes with his ham and mixed vegetables. He likes sweet potatoes. 

The Car Attacked Me!

 I managed to sleep two hours Wednesday night and two hours Thursday! Now, at 7 pm, I am once again exhausted. 

Today, we collected the ads from three stores. Beforehand, I had Tommy go into CVS with the 40% off coupon and told him to get a skeleton for $30. I got out of the car to get it from his walker as he was struggling to get off the curb without it tumbling out of his walker. Then, we both stood at the back of the car, struggling to use the fobs, both our fobs to open the hatch! As it turns out, the motor has to be off or something. I also did not know I had to hold down the button. 

We came home after shopping, and I was helping. Then, I closed the hatch on myself. It really hurt my shoulder! It whacked me twice. I told Tommy, and he said he shut it on his head the first time. Who knew I was in the way? 

When we were at Publix, we both got our flu vaccines. I broke down and bought bscb for $3.99/lb. That is above the price I want to pay, but they aren't giving it away at Publix. 

At Publix, I asked for help at the meat counter, and the guy came out to help me. Just then, a woman came up, stopped the guy and said,

 "I just have a question." Yes, she was loud so I could hear it after I asked a question. She heard the other employee say I had a question to the meat employee who came to me. 

I said, "No, he is helping me now."  

She said, "But, I need to ask him a question." 

I said, "Well, first he can answer my question." 

She continued, "But, this (she pecked some packages) is what I need to ask about. All I want to know is..." 

More firmly, "NO!"

"But..." 

"NO!"

She opened her mouth and then abruptly snapped it shut.

Well, you know a person in an electric cart could not possibly need to take her turn but should give it up to another person.

Tommy is trying to use a straight screwdriver on tiny Philips head screws in the skeleton's head. I told him it could wait until tomorrow. I had tools in a Publix bag. The cleaner from last year totally rearranged that room, so that I have no idea where anything is anymore. So, we will go to The Pig (ACE) and buy another. The eyes glow red when we can get batteries in there!

A few days ago, I saw my first colored leaves. It was only one tree in a small forest. Today, in a parking lot with small trees, all of them had a few leaves that had turned. The rest were still green. Our St. Augustine grass is still lush and green and still growing. 

I had a package of bats, felt, I suppose. While Tommy was in the yard, I put a six-inch bat on the bathroom mirror with little sticky dots. He went into the bathroom and then came out. Thirty minutes later, I asked if he like the bat. "It startled the Hell out of me!" He said he was sort of looking down as he went in. As he left, he saw it. He momentarily thought it was a huge roach. 

Dinner was a hamburger at home, slaw, and an apple. Tommy had chicken thigh, potatoes, carrots. I had frozen several packages with a full dinner for him.

I am loving this very this 85 and mid-80s temperatures this year. The weatherman cannot promise us more than a mist for the next two weeks!

Are you enjoying the warm weather and lack of rain? 

Have you scared anyone yet with Halloween decorations? 

Do you have a skeleton for decoration, large or small? 

What is wrong with people like the woman at the meat counter???

Cancelled

 

I designed this photo and won 3rd place in an art contest, photo category. This was an outdoor table with a candlestick, and four candles. The box said dripless, but you can see someone stored other candles in the box. 

Today has been hard because I could only sleep for two hours last night then had a 2 hour nap this afternoon. Instead of driving across town to his bank, he drove about two miles to an annex and had to walk in. It was quick. 

This evening I cut Tommy's hair and almost did not make it. Just now, I asked him what he would say if I did not want to go. He said he was sorry I would miss going, but if I felt I could not make it, he understood. So, we will stay home. I really hate to miss the event. Missing Coletta's lasagna will make me unhappy. I have waited for five years for this. 

Today, Tommy washed a load of clothing for me, towels and such. He washed the poop from the mailbox, sprayed another coat of red paint, and put new numbers on the mailbox. Two numbers were missing, so this was necessary. The mailbox was old and banged up, regular aluminum mailbox with black numbers on white background. Now, the box is red with gold numbers on black background. It is quite striking. We use the ramp as a means of telling people where the house is located. Now, we have a ramp and a red mailbox to locate us.  

I cut my bangs, too, and I did a good job. I sat in my chair with a hand towel across my chest, no mirror, and trimmed bangs. 

He told me he would get only one pair of pants. I agreed. Then, when we were looking, he said, "What do you say we get one black and one khaki? Of course, I agreed, so he has two pair that are not raggedy and stained. 

Yesterday, I gave him a CVS coupon for $40% off a regularly priced item. He stayed forever trying to decide. I told him get anything. He called about getting a five-foot skeleton for $60 off.   He came out with Chips Ahoy. I was heartbroken because I will eat them. He also had another coupon for 40% off. He said part of the problem was almost everything had some sort of discount.

Today, he was really happy to get a car wash. It is the first for that car. He refused to wash the last car.

I was so close to calling an ambulance tonight. I keep choking. I was eating Hormel Roast Beef and Gravy, slaw, and grapes. I planned to eat more different foods. But, choking caused me to give up on eating anything. So, a trip to gastro doc is in order very soon. 

The Day Before

 

Plus, I don't need a calculator and can do most math in my head. So, there! And, I might just be able to Tik Tok and Snap Chat!

This weekend is the 60th reunion of my Oakhaven High class of 1964. We plan to go. But, the way things are working out, I am not sure. 

The trip to Memphis will take a good five hours. The reunion is just a rented room for lunch. We won't be able to get up and make it there. So, we will go the night before. Since the lunch and meeting is noon to 4pm., we cannot drive home. So, this will need two nights in a motel. 

Before 2019 we had big parties, dances at night. In 2019, we had no music, no dancing, just dinner at night. Before 2019 it cost lots to attend. Now, we pay for what we eat at noon. There were long dresses and glitz. For this lunch, I am getting nothing new or making much of an effort. 

The podiatrist is out of the office this week, so she cancelled my appointment, and she will not be able to see Tommy as an emergency with his hammer toe and bending big toe. I don't want him to develop something dangerous, like an infection. I am quite sure driving will irritate those two toes. ``

Today, I had to buy makeup since I have not had any new since before 2019. Of course, what I wear is no longer made, color is not same, or product disappeared. I will do a practice run tonight and see how it goes. We may go out and try to get what I could not find. 

I do know what I will wear--black top and striped pants, Rafaella from eBay, sandals. The pants still had tags on them. The blouse looked unworn. It will be so warm; the bare shoulders will still be comfortable. I will take a sweater just in case I need something after we leave the restaurant. 

Five years ago, at the last reunion, I said to myself that I would lose weight before this reunion. I gained weight. Sometimes, I lie to me. So, I am fatter. 

I have to carry the leg pumps, so that will be another suitcase. 

My hair has not been professionally cut since early 2018. I had planned to do this before reunion. Two weeks ago, I sat in my chair without a mirror and cut the bottom myself, except for the very back bottom. It actually looks good and is very even. Now, I need to layer it and cut my bangs. I will do the rest myself. If I had had it cut within the last six months, I might have had to deal with a haircut that could be a nightmare. So, I can do this.

I forgot I need to cut his hair. It is so long that he looks like an old gray hippie. There is never a good time to cut it. The clippers have been in the living room for two weeks. 

So, I have most things solved or under control. Except for Tommy. He has not decided what to wear. I don't know if he has a pair of pants that are not ragged, not permanently stained, or don't have frayed legs from stepping on the back hem. He is being all sorts of annoying. Last time we went there, he did not bring clean underwear. Yes, his underwear was dirty! I do not want to be finding out what he has not packed just before we need to leave or after we get there. 

I think one carryon will suffice for a change of clothing for both of us and our meds and toiletries. He wants his own whatever to carry his clothing. He has a very small, dirty white suitcase. It is unwieldy. Besides, why carry more than we have to. Mine will at least roll. 

Tonight, I trimmed and snapped the beans I got at the market last week. Surprisingly, they were still good and fresh. There were no strings to pull out. I cut them with a knife. It hurts my fingers to snap beans, obviously. In a few minutes, I will cook the shelled peas I bought and freeze them, too. We can freeze all but enough for tonight and tomorrow. I will use these for green bean casserole at Thanksgiving. I have a turkey breast thawing. Half will be frozen for Thanksgiving. 

So, Tommy showed me the two newer pair of pants, one of which he will wear at the lunch meeting. I only checked the bottom hem. All four hems are worn, ragged, and stained. We quietly argued a bit, and he relented--I can buy him one pair. Before he relented, I told him "okay", just to wear a holey t-shirt so people could say, "she picked a good one!" I told him not to wear his Dr Who t-shirt (30 yrs. olds) since it is so iconic! Just dress like I picked him out of the trash. That is when he relented. There are very few times I object to what he wears, even when it is a t-shirt with holes...lol. I do think the Dr. Who t-shirt is okay to wear.

Maybe I can still paint my nails and not look like an old lady did it.  Maybe I will not paint them. The Strawberry Margarita is five years old!

At least I know the car is safe to drive that far!

Gee, I made a long list and forgot soap, shampoo, toothpaste! There is always a toothbrush in my purse, even if it is a little hairy and dusty. I can never find the little cover. 

We have a heavy day tomorrow when we should be taking it easy for the trip. I have to get Tommy to talk or at least answer me when he drives. Otherwise, it's like he zones out. 

Is travel, even for a short car trip a big deal now that you are older and if you have little cooperation? Going around town for three hours exhausts me! 

I have to go and quit this stream of consciousness and do something with this list. 

One Problem Solved, More Problems to Be Solved

 Plans were to have request for absentee ballots. Remember when I went to sit in the car because Tommy was getting them? Well, I knew they were not right. I spent time finding and writing down the route to what we needed to have copies to use. The two elderly women found something.

So, I had Tommy go into another library. He found what we needed and got three copies. They had them in another room, ready to go. And, the address I found to mail them was correct. No telling where the wrong address would have left us, probably not getting to vote. We need to have those ready to go tomorrow.

I found a place to go for listening acctivities. Now, I just need to find another way to get inside. They have a looong ramp that I will never be able to get up. Maybe they have an elevator.

One store has turkey breasts for $1.99/lb. There were only two left in the store. Tommy got one. They will be in on a truck tomorrow but won't go in meat counter until Wednesday. That seems wrong. But, I will try for more. The manager told Tommy that information. 

I went into the store and told the woman who was sexually harassed that I reported the guy. She had a big grin on her face. 

At Publix, I bought four jars of peanuts. Unfortunately, I bought Publix brand and paid more. So, I need to take those back and get the ones that are Planter and bogo. 

The mailbox needs a second coat of red paint. But, a bird decorated it first, so the mailbox needs to be washed first. I wonder if that was a seal of approval or extra decoration for the box.

Tommy's toe may keep us from going out of town. It depends on the podiatrist. He has had hammer toes since he was a small child. I never heard of that so young. He told me it was hurting and asked did I have foam to stick between his big toe leaning into the horribly bent toe. I don't think he can drive five hours up and five hours back three days later with so much pressure. One toe was starting to get really red and the skin looked like it was getting a hold in it. I put mupirocin on it, barely getting gloved finger and med between toes. He won't allow me to put it on so it will stay, so he keeps scraping the bandage off. 

I don't think rain will be a problem for the drive. We still need to get reservations. This is so complicated. I can safely drive, but I will be exhausted easily, so I cannot depend on me to drive. I won't sacrifice his toe for the trip. 

If I make this trip, I need makeup. I have had new makeup for six years and have not worn any since the pandemic and masks. 

Finally, at just after midnight, we got the request for an absentee ballot ready for the mail. It took hours, not because it was hard or lengthy. I had to listen to Tommy and argue with him over stupid things about the process, things like the address and why I put an M instead of an N. I am worn out. It was an M. 

I like crackers and cheese for a snack. But, I eat too much, trying to slice more cheese because I have extra crackers on my plate or getting more crackers because I have extra cheese and no more crackers. Now, I slice cheese and give it to Tommy to take back to refrigerator. I get rid of the box of crackers, too. I am sure you know the problem of evening out foods, like needing more gravy for the biscuit. Or needing more biscuits for the leftover gravy on your plate. So, now I don't keep adding to my snack calories. 

Have you ever dealt with hammertoes on someone?

Halloween Decorating

 

Me?

This must be me above, my sentiments, anyway. Carpets, too, are a problem.

Today, I slept until 12:30 pm, mainly because I did not sleep until about 6 am. Cleaner was going to come and called an hour ahead. Well, I realized I only had about 20 minutes to rest, so went to bed. I got to sleep about two hours because she did not come when she said. No problem. I was in my gown and stayed in my gown while she was here. 

I had her dust surfaces where I was going to decorate for Halloween. I mostly have pumpkins with which to decorate in here. So, I sat and she decorated as I told her. I have an orange watering can with black and orange fake flowers in it. Flowers have gold on them. Very festive. 

Since I made the decision not to have real pumpkins, it is so much easier. Plus, we don't have to buy and discard. I had many years of real pumpkins. I am done. All of the pumpkins are devoid of decoration except for two. One has a haunted house with big moon and bats flying around. The other is the only light pumpkin. It is carved with a light inside that has a cord to plug into the wall. 

I have fake fall leaves all about the room, strands of them. There is one very large pumpkin, round and tall. There are about two dozen small pumpkins of all sorts of autumn colors. 

On the front door is a plywood stack of three pumpkins. There is a safety green pumpkin for Trick or Treating sitting on the table. Tommy put a heavy rock in it to anchor it. He hung lots of ghosts of different sizes in the only tree without leaves, a dogwood. He put out a Halloween flag on the wire yard hanger. We hung my black bird and a pumpkin from the shepherd's hooks. 

I sat! She also put away some clothing in my bedroom, some to hang and some to store. In the kitchen she took out Tommy's old smoky glasses I hate, and we never use, he boxed them up and stored. I put in my pink glasses that we will use and my red glass salt and pepper shakers. There is much less on the counter between microwave and sink. 

I bought some glass looking plastic storage containers. They have never been used because I could never get the top off. Today, I sat with one in my lap and figured it out. Now, the oats from a small container are stored there. I taped the cooking method and measurements on the top. I remember, but Tommy may not. 

While I was sleeping before she came, Tommy completely cleaned off the very messy top of his bookcase and even dusted it! I had asked him once about three days ago. Good job. 

All the batteries in the tapers, and other candles had to be replaced. Now, I have the three on the bookcase set to come on for six hours each evening. I think I will reset them for four hours to save batteries. 

We must have ten pounds of batteries to recycle at a place that only sells batteries. They are accommodating and come to the car to pick them up from us. 

Lastly, she painted the mailbox stand with black paint. Then, she painted the mailbox with red paint. This is part of the Christmas decorating. Now, we must get new numbers for the mailbox. Tommy says the mailbox looks really nice. I didn't think he would allow me to paint it. Now we can tell people our house is the house with the red mailbox.

For dinner I had salad from lunch last week. It was amazingly fresh. A can of tuna with a bit of Miracle Whip was eaten with the salad with no dressing. Tommy ate some sort of soft taco type thing with lots of cheese and few vegetables, much less than was on the box it came in frozen. 

Halloween decorating is done. Dinner is done. 

I will mail my first Christmas card since it has to go halfway around the earth! It never gets there before Christmas. This year it will. This is the earliest I have ever mailed a Christmas card. 

Have you put out any Halloween or Fall decorations, even a pumpkin or Jack o' Lantern?

Do you only use fake pumpkins? Or, can you still manage heavy pumpkins?

I need the tshirt at the head of this post? Anyone else relate?

I have never painted a mailbox before. Have you? The post and box were in dire need of paint or replacing. This was cheaper!

What is the soonest you have ever mailed a Christmas card?

Saturday Drive

 Somehow, I don't think I posted on Friday. The day was nothing like I planned. We did not get the ballots mailed. I have been trying for two weeks to get a refill on Victoza. Finally, today, Saturday, we drove to Cullman. 

The pharmacist in response to my asking why it was hard to find, said it was the vanity in the world....says the pretty slim young woman. It seems people misuse Victoza for weight loss.  I had no idea. I got 40 days' worth instead of the 90 days on my prescription. Some days, I am only given one pen, good for 13 days. The worry of wondering when and if I can find this stresses me. 

While we were in Cullman, we went to get a fob for me. It was $130 after two discounts. Then, I had him make me a house key and bought a big ring to hold both and attached it to my phone. Now, I am set. 

Tommy finally figured out how to open the car with the key instead of the fob. The keyhole is in the door handle on the driver's side. There is only one place to open the car with a key, driver's door. I hate that. 

We are still working on learning what is what on this car! We still have not found a cd player. 

While we were waiting for the fob, there was a woman with a table full of things to sell. I wanted nothing but the bracelets. I bought three at $3 each, Christmas gifts. It was for a house where women and children live while mothers are overcoming addiction. Then, I saw something lumpy and colorful. It was a crocheted potholder, $5. She gave me a crocheted 'prayer flower.' People pray over them and give them away. I won't be doing that as I don't have that belief. I told Tommy he better not use the potholder. I want to hang it up. 

We bought Whoppers, two for $5. I went to Publix but forgot to go to the other store I like. 

The weather was beautiful with no sun in my eyes. The sun was shining and bright. However, we did not go early and come home late, so the sun was not at an angle until the last 30 minutes. Riding in the Honda is a dream. 

I came home and went to bed and slept for two hours, lay there resting for another hour. Now, I am making dinner. I put in two hamburgers with onion soup mix over them. We are having burgers, green beans, slaw, and a salad. Tommy had burger, green beans, and a salad, no slaw. Our burgers had no bun. I am so full. 

On Thursday night we had burger on bun, slaw, tomato, twice-baked potatoes. 

Does your vehicle have only a keyhole on the driver's side? Does that annoy you?

Do you have a CD player? 

Absentee Ballots

 Last night, we sat and talked about what we were going to do today. We decided that getting an application for an absentee ballot was first on the list. Plus, we needed to get copies of our driver's license to send off with the ballot request. 

That sounds easy enough. Right? Not at all. We went to library and Tommy renewed his library card while I obtained one from his library. First, Tommy started off telling the woman our needs backwards. Then, while I was on computer, he was using the mouse to click on things. I don't know if it was the computer or his clicking around while I tried to work. But, we never found the site and information I found at home to make sure we could find the site easily. 

I sent him back to the front to ask a question and he never came back. It was so far to the front. I did not think I would make it. All the chairs were hard plastic molded kind. I told Tommy I was waiting in the car. Finally, he came out with all we needed. My back was surviving. My car seat is sooo comfortable. 

We picked up the grocery ads on the way there and some on the way back. I still have not looked at them. 

As we neared the house, Tommy exclaimed 'that was our mower.' Then, when we got home, the yard was mowed. So, I called mower and told him we were here if he wanted his money. He came back. He left and then we had something else to give him, so he came back again. Tommy usually writes a check but used cash today since he still has car money from when he sold it. 

Tommy was funny giving me a $50 bill to buy envelopes. He was cute being the bigshot, asking me if that was enough. 

I barely got into the house and went to sleep in my chair for about an hour. For dinner--chicken breast, two kinds of slaw, mushy tomato that I could not finish, and an apple. Tommy had chicken breast sandwich with bbq sauce, coleslaw, and mushy tomatoes. The insides of the tomatoes are the consistency of applesauce! He said I ate the last of one kind of slaw, the kind with kale. 

It is 8 pm, and I have to hang black clothes, use leg pumps, and fill out request for absentee ballot. It is not a lot, but it feels like it. We will mail it at PO tomorrow. We need to go to his credit union to deposit his cash. Also, take recycling to Publix. 

I think putting out our few Halloween decorations will be on the list for tomorrow. We also need to separate plants outdoors. Some are dead. Some are still alive. Tommy quits watering plants when they start to 'die' instead of reviving them with water. Maybe next year, I will just have bulbs. Maybe I will start packing tomorrow. The request for the absentee ballot is foremost. We do need to make reservations for hotel rooms! I keep forgetting.

Do you vote by absentee ballot? 

What are your plans?

Tommy's Bulging Wallet

 Today was a good day, not rough, just extremely tiring. We went to Cullman. The car drove beautifully. Skies were clear. I wore a light sweater since it was 44F when we left about 9 am. He refused to get a light jacket. I worry for him, but we have a throw in the car. 

We were going to pick up a lunch and then go to lunch and learn at the Ag Center. When we got our lunch, we picked up two for friends in their nineties. This is the guy who kept trying to touch me, to 'boop my nose" when I refused to let him hurt my injured shoulder. He was a pain once again. Next time, he will have to go to Tommy's window. 

We left their lunch and extricated ourselves and headed to the Lunch and Learn to hear about bulbs. I learned a lot even though I have been planting bulbs for years. I am always successful. 

We sat in the car and ate. We only ate one lunch. Tommy had the soup while I ate the salad. The soup was like chili with vegetables. I had the salad. We called to see what was on the menu. I brought chopped chicken to add to mine. It was a great salad after the chicken was added. 

I learned lots about bulbs and participated in the question-and-answer session. 

We were given bulbs just dug--lots of kinds of narcissus, spider lily, and some bulbs she did not know the kind. So, with our newfound knowledge, we have many free bulbs, about $30 dollars worth if we bought them from Lowe's.

Afterwards, we went to have the other fob made for Tommy's car. It was ordered but never came in, so that is for another trip. We then went to get my lens changed. I did not have my debit card, so Tommy used his cc. I insisted on repaying him. So, I went to bank and got over $200. He was thrilled to have 'real money' in his wallet. 

While waiting on my glasses, we went to DQ and got a horrible milk shake. I keep forgetting I hate their milkshakes. Plus, two milkshakes cost $10. 

As were on the way home, cleaner called me to say she wanted to come get the Rogue. When we got home, I called her. She and her friend came. I had just set down in my chair and pushed it all the way back. I thought I was awake when she came, but I could not talk and make sense or type out a bill of sale. I mailed it to her daughter and received a reply with her electronic signature. 

This bill of sale is an acknowledgement of the lack of title right now and an acknowledgement of money paid and received. She said she will not drive it. She just wants to get it before mower tries to buy it out from under her. Mower and cleaner are friends. 

She paid Tommy $500 cash. He was so happy to have money. He was showing me how stuffed his wallet was now. He is enjoying having money. Later, he said, "I suppose I should put most of this money into the credit union." So, he has had his ecstasy of having cash on his person, and he has come to his senses. He has $707 in tens and twenties plus one five and two ones. 

So, we have bulbs, maybe three dozen. 

We had to pay $10 each for the lunch and learn. I ate one triangle of baklava and Tommy had one bit of naan bread. I suppose free bulbs make up for lack of lunch I could eat and that he did not want. Okay, he had the rest of my lunch (Mediterranean salad and roasted potatoes) for dinner with another bowl of soup. 

The outdoor temperature was 61F when we came home today. Amazingly, it was only 56F in the house. We grabbed throws. 

I went to bed for two hours and got up still groggy. 

Now that I am up and have watched Nova, I will have Tommy's salad with more chopped chicken on it. 

There are still two more meals for other days. No, there are three salads and one soup left or something. I don't get the food math, but that is what he said. I may have to cook one day soon. sigh

The  Ag has a broom-making class next week. I want to go, but it starts at 6 pm. Besides, we have to pack and rest to go out of town. Maybe they will have it another time. 

I think I will sleep well tonight! 

Has anyone ever taken a broom-making class?

Do you plant bulbs? What kind?

Finishing Things

 I did call about the sexual harasser. The person to whom I talked was equally horrified and agreed I was harassed, too, that other people hearing this would not like it especially if they had children with them. And, she agreed that being her manager and him being white and her being black was a problem, too. Oh, I found out he was CS manager. Good going, guy.

When we left Saturday to travel out of town, I noticed squeaking from Tommy's side of the car occasionally. He said his Crocs were squeaking on the brake pedal. Finally, I told him something else was squeaking. If forgot to tell the dealer Monday. So, I called today. 

I was told that noise was rust on the rotors, that every time we let it sit and not drive it, the rust forms and then squeaks. I insisted this was not from rotors, that I could hear it in the car. I have heard brakes grinding before.  He assured me I was hearing rusty rotors. Finally, I called mower who knows a lot about cars. He thought the excuse was ludicrous. So, we wait. 

I cancelled a doctor's appointment and got a sooner one. It took the woman forever to understand I am supposed to see this doctor sooner, at least 63 days between appointments. Finally, I got a proper appointment. 

Since I have a driver's license and can legally drive once more, I decided to take a spin around the neighborhood, I left with only my debit card...lol. Then, I decided to go get oil changed and a car wash. I could not see to drive with dust reflecting on windshield. The car now looks wonderful. I needed gas. Tommy had struggled mightily to get into the car, so I got out to pump. Not possible. A message came up to go inside. 

I needed to go inside, too far for me to walk, so female employee offered to go in, use my card for me, and bring it back out. By the time this all was accomplished, I was too tired to go to oil change. 

Besides, Tommy's blood sugar was so low, he needed to eat. As I was driving after getting out for gas, I noticed him doing something busily. We had just gone to Publix and only gotten bread. He was wolfing down a slice of bread since he left his snack in his car when he got into mine.  It was not ideal, but he was not passing out. 

When we got home, cleaner wanted to come with her daughter to look the Rogue. Since we might not be home, she wants to come Friday, drive the car, and pay for it even if we do not have title yet. She wants to make sure to get it. Now, she will be here Friday around 4 pm. The Rogue is a hot commodity right now. Actually, people are lined up for the Impala, too. 

When we came home, I made coleslaw. For dinner, I had coleslaw, chopped slaw with kale, tomato and turkey--all cold. Tommy had a sandwich with turkey and bbq sauce and the new slaw I made. We had a blueberry muffin with real blueberries. 

The only thing I tried to do that did not pan out was talking to SS office. She was going to call me after I left a message!

We have a long day tomorrow. I have mixed feelings about our plans. 

Do rotors rust overnight and squeak when the car is driven the next day? 

Can you hear squeaks from rotors in the passenger cabin of a car and down in floor where brake pedal is located?

Fruitful Monday

 No, I did not call to report sexual harasser. Something happened. I think cleaner arrived. Tuesday, I promise. 

Today we got up early, about 10 am and were out the door in an hour. We first went to get my driver's license. Then, we both ordered title to sell the cars, mine and his. He suggested we eat at CFA, and I am weak. I only had cereal and milk. CFA is so delicious. 

Since we were practically across the street from where we bought the car, we dropped by to show them the lost trim and disaster of scratches on the car. I told them we did not want it buffed out because the scratch was too deep. The obnoxious came out and interrupted my talking with the man who would coordinate with repair people. 

I told him to go away because I did not want to see him or talk to him. He kept on and I raised my voice, yelling at him to go away. He persevered in trying to be Mr. Personality. I screamed at him to go away and get out of my face because I did not like him and what he had to say. 

When he first came up, he told me it was only aftermarket trim and my car was actually okay. I saw red and his smirking face. When I turned toward Tommy, about four salesmen with their mouths open. Tommy did not care.  Another four and the guy in charge of getting the repair done were very quiet outside my side of the car. 

I was sort of embarrassed then realized he was the instigator. I was too hot to have any regret. The guy I yelled at finally lost his smile and said, "You are serious, aren't you?" Stupid man!

We were near Jared's, so Tommy stopped and bought me a necklace for my birthday that was over a month ago.

Cleaner called, so we went home. She was here for two hours--brought out Halloween decorations, made my bed, cleaned up clutter behind and to the side of my chair, helped me clean up my room a bit, and put color on my hair. I use Guarnier 40 but had her put 415 over that. It gives sort of a reddish hue, so it does not look solid black. 

Tommy changed out my blue bird for a black bird. These are all the same bird, just spray-painted a different color. I have a red bird with a cardinal crest, painted red for Christmas. The Halloween stemless wine glass has an orange, battery-operated tealight in it. Halloween decorating will be slow this year. But, it is happening. 

Overall, it was a very good Monday, except for the guy in my face. Don't bother defending him or feeling sorry for him. I won't publish your comment. 

Because of cleaner coming, I did not get a chance to make calls I needed to make...tomorrow. 

There is a drive for books happening. I had bought a book but gave it to cleaner for her niece. 

My photo for driver's license is horrid! How did I get so old and saggy? 

Sexual Harassment/Carvana

 While I was at a big box store, I heard an assistant manager address a CS person as "Babe." I asked her to make sure. She said he did and often did.  I will call the company and complain. She said she tried to ignore it. I hope he loses his job! All women suffer when one man is allowed to sexually harass one woman. And, this was a black woman. He is a white man, her superior! 

I wonder how many people have witnessed her humiliation and harassment. How many young girls have seen and heard his actions and will accept it as normal. I have a BS in Social and Behavioral Science, so I can talk the talk in defense of people, minorities especially. 

Yes, I do defend men. 

Tomorrow, I will make the call to corporate. 

Mower came by today to look at the Rogue to buy. I had promised it to cleaner. They are friends. So, more car buyers than $500 cars.

Mower said he was waiting for me to get tag and title so he could buy Impala. I started thinking that a car does not need a tag to sell. So, told him I am not going to buy tag, just get a title. He did not try to persuade me. 

Carvana is so easy to use, so I am shopping for cars there. Has anyone ever bought a car from Carvana? 

Car Broke

 We had not been to Cullman to get the mail for about six weeks. The sound the car made frightened me. Now, the car is fixed, we know it was a wheel bearing. All fixed and car sold. 

The car was a dream. I love the beep so we know someone is close when he is going to make a turn. We are still learning the dashboard. We both have a thermostat for each side of the car. Neat!

We had traveled about 10 miles or less when the loose piece ripped loose and hit the car, flying off into the road after scratching the door. Now, all four pieces must be replaced. 

In Cullman, we went to a dealer, grandson of a friend who wanted us to go see him. Well, we did and he did not have anything for us right now. Then, we called a used car salesman who has sold us two cars, well SUVs. He said the dealer would have to replace all the little door window pieces. It was their problem. He will look for another car for me. He is very nice. And, thanked us for calling him. He is so polite that he was horrified with the way they yelled at me and insulted and ridiculed me all the time. 

We picked up six weeks of mail. I had a small, plain burger while Tommy ate his sandwich from home. Then, I ate my sandwich from home. We went to place to get another fob which will be $150. I need one, too. We have keys to each other's cars. I shopped in Publix and another store where I got deals--bogo Miracle Whip, bogo peanut butter . Dromedary Pimiento was cheaper in Cullman store than at The Pig. I suppose I am out of the canned Hormel roast beef and gravy, so I bought one until I can order from Amazon more cheaply. 

I have $50 on a card for vegetables only at markets, so I wanted to spend that before two weeks when it will end. I bought four tomatoes, pint of shelled peas, mess of fresh green beans, last zucchini a guy had, and tried to buy eggs. Now, I have $35 to spend. 

The woman washes them, refrigerates them, moves them to a cooler and brings them to the market. No way. I prefer them not washed, not refrigerated. She will be selling spoiled eggs. But, now I know I can buy good ones at a Thrift Store in Cullman. 

I felt so calm and relaxed and at home in the town where I lived for more than half my life. However, I was so happy to be going home to this house. 

The place where we are getting another fob came right out to the car as he always has. He knows me as a decades-long customer. 

I took a nap when we arrived home. Dinner was chicken, slaw, potatoes, carrots. There was a whole onion but have not had any of the onion yet. Yes. Tommy said there is still onion. 

Usually, a trip out, especially as far as Cullman causes my feet to swell so the normally loose sandal straps actually cut into my feet. I have been using the pumping legs at night. Last night I was choking again and did not feel I could lie back and not start choking and throwing up, so I skipped the pumping. Amazingly, after skipping the diuretic yesterday, skipping pumping, and sitting in the car for about 6 hours, my feet and legs were barely swollen. So, this is working even without doing it right, not my intentions. If any doctor had listened and taken me seriously, I would probably less swollen now! Oh, and now my weight is back down to lowest this summer. 

Tomorrow--woman in distress.

Fall Temperatures

 Today was a lovely day, blue skies, bright sun, not too hot, and a breeze. In short, idyllic. We did little. I still have not recovered from the physical or mental stress of Wednesday car buying! Tomorrow is a necessary but hard day. 

I do think I should dig out a sweater or two. I also need to move a thin jacket to my chair in living room. It appears we will have cooler weather in the 70s during the afternoons. 

Tommy said the back seat in the Honda is much larger. That will be good because we keep two travel pillows, a couple of throws, a canvas cooler, lots of stuff we won't carry back and forth. Plus, more room makes it easier to get the heavier and larger rollator into the car. 

I may never figure out all the gadgets on the dash. When I go into the grocery store, he sits and stays busy figuring out where everything is on the car. We are rejoicing over the button that opens and closes the back of the Honda. People ask us to open it and we cannot. They tell us it is a button. The guy today even closed it with the button on the door. YAY!

I do wonder how long it will take us to find everything and learn the car. We are not happy we don't have a cd player. It is also not in the car book! 

The grass is still growing, so more mowing will be needed, probably twice more. We have not seen one tree that is turning. 

Are the trees turning red and gold where you live or in your yard?

Rudeness and Insults at Dealer

 I had not been inside the car since Tommy signed the papers. We drove the Rogue home while the salesman drove/delivered the Honda. Today, about 4 pm, Tommy drove it to stores to get ads. Two miles into our drive, I noticed a glued part was falling off. There is a little ledge type, porch roof sticking out over the window. Well, It was broken and glued back with thick, nasty, orange glue. 

When I called back, less than 24 hours after it was purchased, the guy with whom I talked, said they would fix it. Our salesman was off today.

Yesterday, I was badgered and ridicule, yes, ridiculed, beyond belief.  They were both nasty to me, especially, the second guy. I said I hated a moonroof, and they said, "just shut it." They responded to each of my reasons with ridicule. I mean, I can dislike something, no business of theirs since the moonroof was not going away. 

Tommy has plenty to say about that later, but not to them. That does not matter as long as he got the car. Once inside and the sun was blazing on us and my skin was hurting from the sun, their solution was to have us walk over 100 feet inside the building to the last desk in the building. Today, Tommy was hurting and complained mightily about it. 

Since when is ridicule of customers part of the sales pitch? Also, they lied. The second guy told me all Honda CVRs came with moonroof. No, they don't. I called another dealer who said they could bring one in, but we would have to buy it. Well, shoot, I can find one now that I know the person lied and all do not have a moonroof. This piece of trim may be a stopper, though. 

When is all settled, I will complain to higher up. 

If I had known this would get worse when I first encountered this abuse, I would have left. Anyone who feels sorry for the poor salesmen is really off, in my opinion. By the way, I did not say one unkind word as he ridiculed me and harassed me about my own person dislikes about the automobile. I just turned my head away so I would not have to see two aggressive men yelling at me. Yet, he bitterly said the price I suggested was aggressive. I asked him if he meant I was aggressive. He said 'yes.'  I shrugged my shoulders and said, "oh well." 

Two more people want the Impala. But, it is still $6,000 dollars. Three others want the Rogue. 

Thursday, we had places to go, things we must do, but I told Tommy before we went to bed last night, that I could not go. Today, he was complaining how walking so far across the dealers' building to get to last office made him hurt. 

Going to pick up three grocery ads was all we did. I did get my hair washed. We baked four bscb and eight thigh, potatoes, carrots. That was dinner, and we will have that ready for when we get home tomorrow. Yes, delayed the salmon croquettes.

We are sooo exciting! Right? 

Oh, meant to say or maybe I did--decluttering uncovered my $50 gift card I misplaces. 

Tonight, I hope to see the Aurora Borealis. I hear it is visible far south. Have you ever seen the Aurora Borealis? From where?

Have you had salesman insult you or yell at you like these guys did? What did you do? 

Do you trade in cars, pass them on, or sell them to private person?

Not editing this either.

New-to-Us Car

 

Honda and Tommy's Rogue in the driveway

                                       back of Rogue, Impala in carport, Honda

We left and arrived at the car dealer about 1:15. We had a salesman try to follow us on foot. Tommy kept driving. The guy sort of stopped following and looked disappointed. I told Tommy to stop because a guy was coming. When we started backing up the guy looked happier. He told us to park and he would come back.

Well, he brought back a clipboard and started getting ready to record the answers to his questions. Nope, not playing that game. I told him so, and also forcefully told him we did not know what we wanted. I reminded him Honda had a million recalls as of last night. He had not heard that and told me I could read anything on the internet. Not playing that game either. He asked which ones. I told him I had a notebook full of cars, lots of makes, some bad, some good.

Finally, since he came to Tommy's door, I just turned away and pouted. Finally, he ran inside and got someone else to talk us into giving info about stuff, like how many miles a car could have, color, what exactly was important to us in a car. I still rebelled and Tommy did not try to persuade me or give them info except his first name. I told them no one had come out with a clipboard trying to pin us down, since everything could change and something I did not say was important could end of being important. 

They gave up the clipboard. Oh, and they came to my side of the car. I kept turning away. He was so annoying. At one point my phone rang with another car salesman. After another run-in, I smiled and told him that call was from a salesman wanting me to come back in, that we had been to several car dealerships. 

Time wore on and we were worn out. We finally got home about 5:15, exhausted. The salesman delivered the car and picked up our payment. 

We had to go inside to conclude the sale. That took two hours inside. AND, the chairs were not comfortable at all 

The price we had to see in writing before we came in was something I forgot. We were only willing to pay taxes, not all the doc fee stuff. So, I rared up and said no, that they lied by saying we would not pay that. They said everyone who buys a car must pay that. "Well, the dealer yesterday took all that off, and we were only paying tax.

So, they brought in a third man. We said they lied and we were leaving. They asked me what I was willing to pay. I had worn them down. Finally, they lowered the car price enough that I would pay the other things like doc fee. 

We had to walk so far to get at a desk out of the blazing 4 pm sun. 

Tommy was never agreeable to anything. He followed my lead and never said we could do whatever I said no about. 

It worked out. When we refused to come inside until we had the price we wanted and signed. The guy sitting behind me in the car said, "That is very aggressive." He did not appreciate my dickering, more like silent stubbornness. 

I did become friendly and loquacious. I think they were relieved.  

Finally, someone asked how we were going to finance the car. I was waiting for Tommy and finally sort of low, said 'your credit union?' He said, "No, I thought I would just write a check." I was shocked. I never knew he kept that kind of money in his savings account. So, that saves paying interest.

They did not have a white car, so he bought a silver Honda CRV. It has a moon roof that almost made me not want the car. But, once it was cheap enough, I relented. I told Tommy not to let them know he was okay with the moonroof. 94K mileage, 2018, one owner, cash price $19963, total amt due $21,766.

My ex was so angry when I would not agree to prices at furniture store or anywhere. He said, "At least your stubbornness pays off sometimes." 

Tommy is always happy when I am stubborn. This car has a moonroof, but it is his car.  Mine won't have a moonroof. I bought the Impala and did not realize it had a moonroof. I was shocked. 

We both carried a sandwich today and ate them on the way home. He saw I had made a sandwich, so he made one for himself. 

It should not take four hours to buy a car! This is the car the Tupperware dealer let me sit in the passenger seat.

This was not edited.   

MIA Cleaner

Today was a gorgeous day. There was not one cloud in the sky and the sun was sooo bright. It was quite hot even though the temperatures were in mid 80s. 

Tommy has totally been ignoring me or just not responding to my asking for help with these legs to treat the lymphedema. Finally, I asked him to move the box back into the living room from my bedroom. It is quite a large box. He put it where it was impossible to completely open the front door. Finally, I asked him to move it in front of his bookcase right in his way to get to his chair. 

He is telling me that I never ask. Yes, at least once a day. He says I never remind him. Yes, once a day. Then, he said I was nagging him. Which is it?

Finally, tonight at 11 pm, he asked if I wanted him to do it, put on the legs for me. So, against my best judgment, we did. 

I cannot for the life of me pull these heavy plastic type legs on me. He hurt my toes! But, between the two of use, we got it all situated. Then, he asked if I wanted him to stay. I did but hated to be a baby about being alone. So, we talked, and time passed. Plus, this procedure was painful. 

Has anyone ever used these compression garments? 

I had to have my body raised this hour. So, the bed that lifts head came in handy. 

When I had extricated myself from these stiff, bulky, heavy legs off myself, I was surprised that my legs and feet felt 'looser.' I could walk better. Tommy said as he followed me into the living room that my legs and feet looked skinnier. YES, they did!

This is supposed to happen twice a day, with at least four hours in between. At least, something is happening with this. I will utilize all the forms of therapy and try to completely reverse this problem. There is no cure. 

I had a puppy print fleece blanket that I used in bed up near my face as a place I could rest my arms and hands. I knew Tommy like it and decided to share it with him. It is so cute, and he thought so, too. So, I let him have it. He was covered with the puppy throw, a blanket, and sheet the next morning. Then, tonight, I spotted another puppy throw in my room. So, now I have it back. He looked cute with puppies all over him. He said it was larger, warmer, and felt better. He had a thinner, and obviously smaller throw that he was using. 

Cleaner has not been here since Sept. 17th. I am annoyed, but she works full-time, and has a second, part-time job. She cannot come this week either. There are things I need her to do. I don't want to replace her, but I may need to get someone else along with her on different days. 

I made a pimiento and cheese sandwich to take with us tomorrow. I suppose we will go out car shopping. We both become inordinately excited when we think about having a button to open the back door. 

Nothing exciting happened today, so this is it. 

Loud Muffler, Woven Stool

We did not go out anywhere today as I was just too exhausted. I had trouble sleeping last night. Just as I was falling asleep, a very loud car without a muffler roared by. As I was falling asleep again, he roared off again. I put out a note for Tommy to wake me later and to call and cancel an appointment. 

 This is a fascinating video that can almost serve as a meditation. I would love one of these stools.

Woodturning - Woven Plywood Stool (youtube.com)

I wondered how a person could weave plywood. Now, I know. This is long and loud. Mute the sound as there is saw noise. I don't remember anyone talking, maybe at the end. The saw noise is mesmerizing when it is low. Closed Caption button has nothing.

Respite From Car Buying

 Cooking and purposely freezing some for later is certainly a lifesaver. i cooked a large meatloaf that lasted three meals for the two of us. Plus, I put some in a tiny casserole. Tonight, we had the tiny meatloaf that I cooked just a few days ago. Tommy washed and I sliced the squash and zucchini I bought. I sprinkled with onion and garlic powders. I should have used onions! I drizzled with olive oil and Tommy microwaved a huge bowl full. Dinner was meatloaf, squashes, green beans. These were the worst canned beans ever! But, I ate them.

Today was basically a recovery day filled with sleep for me. Sleep was not often and fitful on Saturday night. I finally awoke at 4:30 pm today. 

In the night when I could not sleep, I cleaned up a bunch of clean clothes Tommy dumped on my walker that I needed to hang or fold. So, my room looks somewhat better. I also got black or blackish things ready to wash. To avoid items getting pills all over, I now wash dark items, especially black ones in the small lingerie bags. It is easier to get them ready and they don't rub against other items. Plus, Tommy  only has to pull out bags from the washer. 

I also gathered up mending, hand mending. These have collected over the months. 

Tommy was watching the Yellawood 500 at Talladega when I awoke. There was a huge wreck, worth watching cars go round and round--28 cars!  

My news feed is chock full of articles about cars not to buy, Honda cars, and things I put on my blog. Creepy! But, they are somewhat helpful. Very helpful in some cases. 

Thanks for the helpful comments from readers. 

Sleep seems to have found me again. Maybe I can sleep. 

Does nnyone live in peninsula of Florida? 

Has anyone bought a new car lately?

If you live nearby, did you go to the Greek Festival?

How About This Car?

 Lana, I could not comment on my own blog! Thanks for the recommendation. We were going to see a Honda on Sunday. 

Saturday, we left and went to two dealers. No one ever came out or looked out a window as we cruised for 30 minutes. So, we left.

Then, we went to another dealer. We finally got the attention of a person in repair shop and asked him "Do they sell cars here" and "are they selling them today. A guy came out and wanted a driver's license. I objected mightily and he said they needed to create a profile on us. WHAT? We asked for the number of the dealer. Soon, a guy in charge came out immediately addressing our problem. So, the first guy had tattled in the first 30 seconds upon leaving us. 

We decided to stay. He said it was not a profile, just so they could get to know us. ???  I asked for a female salesperson. They actually brought out the woman who is in charge of their IT who was formerly in their sales. The only reason I stayed is because I was interested in these brands of cars. 

I was tired, as always, and just told her all the needs of our disabilities. She brought a car that I liked until she opened the moon roof. That was a NO. She then brought a Jeep Grand Cherokee. I liked it. Tommy only got in the first car. The one with moon roof was the second one. The third one we told her to hold until Monday and we would be back.

It was getting late. We told her we needed daylight, so we had to go. When we left, I told Tommy I wanted to try a Honda. The Tupperware woman had let me get into her car, and I was impressed. 

Before we left home, I was afraid to eat anything after my problems of the last two nights, so I ate some yogurt, then milk and bread. I dipped the bread into milk and swallowed the chewed-up mush. At one point in the negotiations, I was hungry, so Tommy wanted to go across the street to Chic fil A. I really wanted just to get a dollar burger, but agreed. Who can resist CFA? Amazingly, the chicken went down and I did not get choked. 

A 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is what we have decided on at this point. They said they could put steps on each side of the car. 

Has anyone ever had steps put onto their car? Ideas? Opinions?

Tommy Works For a New Car Dealer

 Yesterday's ordeal was over this morning, but I was shaky and felt like I had been punched in the stomach. So, I told Tommy I wanted to go buy a car. He said 'okay.' We almost did. 

First, I had a return to Lowe's. I bought two things on the same card, yet only one shows up in their system. Annoyed here.

Example: I remarked to Tommy that the mileage was awfully high. The salesman is in the back seat. He said mildly and easily-No it is not too bad. I put my hand on his arm and repeated it and poked his arm with my finger. Still, he was okay with everything. I was crushed. 

The guy did not like me. Or, was I too ugly for him to face. He stuck with Tommy. Even when Tommy was not near him and I tried to ask a question, he remained near the rear tire. He annoyed me. We went to a dealer. As we left without a car or hope, Tommy said he would not go to a used car lot, just a dealer. 

We almost bought a Lincoln! It stunk. The guy said it had not been detailed. The car had been detailed. 

So, we left to go to another lot. I wanted a little burger first. Tommy went to Arby's while I objected. As I ate the roast beef, low motility caused me to choke and throw up more. This was short-lasting because I quit eating after two bites. All I wanted to do was come home! We were in rush hour traffic, so it was time to come home.

I needed Tommy to latch my seat belt and I held bag under my chin with left hand and pulled the belt with right hand. He turned toward me, ignoring the car barreling around the corner right into his door area as he kept pulling around another corner. Both cars were trying to occupy the same space. I screamed "look" as he grabbed frantically for the seat belt, saying he saw it and could not reach it. He did not see the car. I said car! car! He finally stopped. It was at that point I determined I had had enough and wanted to just go home.  He had left his G7 monitor at home, so I had no idea how his blood sugar was affecting him. Tomorrow, we will go out again. Maybe we should just buy a car and not shop around. I don't know. He said we could get a new car. Two? He said we could. 

We still have lamb for him and chicken for me, plus two salads from the Greek Festival, I suppose the Salmon Croquettes will be pushed forward another day.

I may give up trying to get a deal and buy what we drive that is okay. 

Car looking is exhausting me. Do you find car-shopping to be draining? 

Frozen Pistachio $60

                                                                           pastitsio

 Today was another great day but exhausting. Of course, I did not get enough sleep, but I was anxious to go out. The plan was to go to the Greek Festival, the 51st year.

We asked for a chicken breast in my meal or just cancel the whole order. The young woman came back and joyfully told us all the pieces were chicken breasts. We left and parked to eat. Well, I had a leg and thigh quarter. We decided to go back and get what we ordered and paid for at the beginning when we ate. The guy was very nice when he heard our story which we told without rancor. He said he would bring more food, winked at me often, and said he would bring things for Tommy, too. For $60, we should get what we want. 

Even at 1 pm, the whole area was festive. One guy was spoiling the atmosphere with fast driving, whipping around a corner, almost hitting our car. I hope someone stopped him before he hurts someone. 

This area was near UAB where I graduated. There were so many folks on scooters, even one woman who looked to old and too well-dressed to be on a scooter. But, I wish her the best. I think when I went in my forties, I would have tried a scooter once, at least until I broke a bone. 

We went to Publix and returned the wrong tumblers I bought and got the bogo ones, saving $3.60. Then, I bought things I have put on a list for four or five trips. I forgot them and just put them on the next day's list. 

When we got home, I was so tired I could not eat, so tried to sleep, and could not sleep. So, I tried eating chicken and rice. Since I have low motility in my esophagus, I got 'choked' and spent a few hours trying to get food unstuck and into my stomach. At the end, I had thrown up a quart. It was not all food, some water.  I still don't dare lie down, eat, or drink. I know, TMI. 

I still have not used my inflatable legs yet. I won't be in bed, attached to something like that and need to throw up. I also have 20 bananas and the dock strike is over. Oh well. 

This morning before we left, I stood leaning on the rail for the ramp and cut my hair. It feels much better but have not looked at it yet. Tomorrow, I will go out and finish cutting it. 

While we were in line at the Greek Festival, Tommy said, "Frozen Pistachio $60! What's with that?

Well, it was 'pastitsio.' It is Greek lasagna and delicious! We both had a good laugh!  

There is enough for a third meal tomorrow. Yummy! 

I love Greek food except for lamb. Do you like Greek food? 

Anyone have low motility and problems swallowing? 

New Angels

 I attended the medical appointment for the lymphedema legs that compress my legs. The appointment almost killed me. It hurt so much. Mainly, it hurt my back trying to sit so the legs could go up my leg. 

The young women were so nice, not nurses, just people who believed me when I said I was hurting and that the plastic hurt my toes just to touch my toes. 

After that we left to go to Chicken Salad Chick. We passed the main Piggly Wiggly. I wanted to go in but I was too hurt and hungry.

We sat in the parking lot and ate. Then we headed home. I wish I cold walk better and go to Homewood often for the special shops like Cookie Fix. I could probably walk enough to counteract the sugar. Seriously, there are so many specialty shops, probably all too expensive. 

Next was Publix. I bought almost 8 lbs. of bananas. I will, as they ripen, peel, cut in half and freeze. Take that dock strike! 

I read that people are stripping Walmart of tp. Is that fear or reality, I wonder. Only one thing I bought was not bogo or on sale. Only one item that was bogo, and that I wanted was off the shelves, sold out--frozen broccoli. The price is okay when on sale, otherwise, not inexpensive enough to buy. 

Shopping at Publix:

1 Drumsticks bogo

2 Ziploc Snaplock Snack Bags bogo

2 Publix cups, not bogo, going back

1 Swanson Chicken Stock, bogo

2 Publix Coleslaw Mix, bogo

1 Julienne Dried Tomatoes for Mediterranean Pasta

Jimmy Dean Cooked Sausage

3 Lipton Dips, 3/$5

2 Kraft Medium Cheddar Cheese bogo

1 Nestles Morsels

The bananas are where I can see them ripen and freeze them. I don't want them past their prime when I freeze. 

Okay, more not bogo items are here. I was mistaken. 

I took a nap from 4 pm to 8 pm and felt groggy and disoriented for about two minutes. I thought it was morning. Now, I just feel rested. We are going to get my 'legs' on me for an hour. These two young women were so nice and helpful. I feel so lucky to find one more place that believes me and works to help me. Everything I told them was met with knowing nods and tips for living better and bringing down swelling. 

Tonight, TV was all PBS for us. We both enjoy these programs. 

Tommy was eating leftovers when I awoke. So, I am eating leftovers, too, at 10 pm. I will have salad with chicken breast. I wish I had another meal from Chicken Salad Chick! Salmon croquettes are moved forward. No problem.

Today was exhausting, but very productive moving me toward better health! 

Even though people are stripping the toilet paper and paper towels from shelves, on TV I heard these items would not be delayed.  I knew that, so did not buy any. Of course, these people are creating artificial shortages! Some of the things I bought are not necessities, but maybe a good sale for holidays. Bananas are the only thing I bought in case of a shortage.

What are you buying in anticipation of the strike? 

Have you thought about a shortage of pharmaceuticals?  

Shortages from Strike

 I read about six articles for the lists of things we will miss first. It seems bananas are at the top of all the lists. Tomorrow, I will buy about five pounds of bananas and peel, cut in half and freeze. I refuse to leave the peel on. Using those are like peeling snot as I have said before. I will take the frozen pieces of bananas, thaw, mash and drink in about a cup of milk. This will serve to satisfy my banana need. I will buy extra hair color, too. I don't think tp will be short, at least not according to articles. Who knows?(rhetorical)

I took an hour nap before the debate. Dinner was leftovers from yesterday--meatloaf, broccoli, smidgens of Brussels sprouts, and green beans. Tommy heated up a can of mixed vegetables and had those, too. Later, I saw the mixed vegetables through the glass storage container. I thought it was candy corn in the refrigerator. No, it was corn and carrots I saw. Just up from a nap makes me confused sometimes. Besides, I don't know where the tiny bag of candy corn and Autumn mix is right now. 

Today, the city's contractor cleaned up the yard next door, except they left dead vines hanging from the top of the porch. Plus, they left six-foot weeds in between two fences. Trees are in there, too. I sent an email to city dept on Friday. That worked better than talking to people. I did mention that mosquitoes and rats were a problem. 

Two packages were on the front porch when we came home. One huge and heavy one was luggage, 5 pieces from Macy's for $79, free shipping. The other, tiny, was a box of my hair color. Yes, the luggage is cheap, but it will only go to car and into a motel or hotel, so no air travel to endure. 

Tomorrow will start early, so I dread tomorrow. But, I eagerly look forward to it.

If I can remember, I will make salmon croquettes on Wednesday. I really want gravy with them. Maybe Tommy will make the white sauce. I will teach him how to brown it. 

The lack of sun and cool weather has been very pleasant. But, tomorrow the sun and heat will be back. At least, no rain.