Tiring Day

 April 16

13,000 steps

After visiting the cardiologist today, I am back to more exercise. However, I think I overdid it with too many steps. 

The doctor gave me more info, emphasizing how I could not miss a dose, asking me if I whaere taking the Eliquis. I had brought some with me, but it turns out it was a box with a coupon for more. He rushed out of the room, got two boxes, opened one, punched a pill through the foil, and told me to take it. I must take this for at least a year. 

He told me, emphasized how lucky I was. Only one out of 100 make it alive to the hospital. That is from afib, I think. Then, the surgery is risky. I had tears in my eyes, about to burst out crying. 

He is from Israel. I asked him if he were not afraid Trump would deport him. He looked surprised and said he was a citizen. When I told him Trump deports citizens, he looked shocked. Later, Tommy said does he not read? 

The whole time was very pleasant. Excellent doctor visit, excellent office staff. Now, I have to take care not to die. We picked up 3 grocery ads, bought a couple of items.

I barely slept last night, so took a nap this afternoon. 

For Easter, I have a turkey breast that I will cook with Polynesian sauce from Chick fil A on it, green bean casserole, potato salad, deviled eggs. Maybe something else. We each have a chocolate bunny for dessert.

Car is repaired. More about that later. 

 

Frustration

 Finally, I gave up on trying to get car to a place to fix electrical issue. So, called tow company and told them where to take it. They will keep it at tow place and deliver it at 8:00. Whew, that was easy. He even carried the 40 lb dehumidifier and put it inside house. Nice, cordial man. He is from Yemen. I hope these guys do not get deported. 

Tommy said the guy started it to make it easier. It was put on a rollback and gone in no time. I felt better. Now to start my car. BIG PROBLEM! I cannot find the fob!

I called a 24/7 locksmith for over two hours and got promises to call me back in five minutes. Finally, the 800 number just hung up on me. Then, someone answered and said a tech would call in morning and schedule a time. I asked if they worked 24/7 and she said "yes."  I told them not to bother.

My frustration level was so high that indigestion was hurting me. I wanted the car to get the birthday card and bogo food. 

Tommy is no fun right now. He keeps telling me not to talk as he is doing important paperwork! I keep forgetting...lol. Oh, he is working on his taxes.I will shut up and not talk.

We still need to get a rental since driving this is a problem for me. Tommy cannot drive it across town to dr because it sits wrong for him with his disability. Neither of us can get into without a struggle or get out. 

Another ongoing frustration. Tommy cannot microwave a hotdog and get it hot. He says if he microwaves it more, it starts popping and breaking. I say any hotdog that stays in same shape after cooking is not good. Next time, he can boil it or fry it, just don't give me a skinny, lukewarm dog!

Do you like a hotdog that is still same size as when bought and lukewarm?

Another Car Dealer

mar 15

steps 10,500

Before the car dealer yesterday, we stopped by another dealer. I could not get out of there fast enough. We drove around the lot and no one came out to us. Finally a guy not a salesman walked by and said he would go get someone and told us to park 'up there' pointing to the building.

We drove up to the building and waited. A man came out and walked right past us and stood on passenger side of the car facing away from us. Finally, I rolled down the window and spoke to him. He said he was looking for us. That seemed weird since he passed us and stood near us. 

He was handing me a card and called me "Baby." I said sternly, "Don't call me "Baby." "Oh, I am a Christian and I just luuuv everybody." I started yelling at him--Yeah, I know your kind, preaching or going to church and then going out and loving everyone you can! Go away!" We drove away to the young lady with whom we talked next at another dealership. 

I asked Tommy if my reaction was wrong. He said no that the guy should have kept his mouth shut. His response was all kinds of wrong.

We told the young woman we would come back today. She gave me a card and told me it was her personal cell. Now, I cannot find it. I suppose it is in the car. But, it is too windy to go out. It was too windy to go to the car dealer. I suppose she figured it out. 

Tommy finally woke at 4:30 pm. I thought maybe he had not slept all night, so I didn't turn on tv or disturb him. No, he had a sinus headache but refuses to do anything for it. These headaches usually last three days. 

Tommy must have a haircut before he leaves the house again! Mine needs color!

We are trying to watch TV. Weather has been on all stations. Everyone is looking at tornado possibilities. It looks grim. I suppose we will know in the morning what happened. 

Tommy may not feel like car shopping on Sunday. Car lots may not be open on Sunday. I still do not feel well at all. Yesterday, I could barely pedal. Today is a bit better. 

A bag of the opened Black Kow fell off another one. The black was escaping in the wind! My deer even though still on the porch were blown around on the porch. I was surprised they were still there.

Okay, we are clear of weather danger, but some of the state is still being watched.  

How has the weather been at your house? Wind? Tornadoes? Flooding? 

Car Shopping

 We had something to do today which was cancelled, maybe because of impending storms. I said to Tommy, "Why don't we go to the car place and look at cars?" After we finally figured out where I was talking about, we went there. 

As we were talking to saleswoman, she asked if we were interested in a hybrid I said no as Tommy said yes. I was shocked. So, we tried a hybrid. Well, I test it for ease of entry and if it hurts my back. 

There were brilliant blue like we wanted, new cars. Tommy was willing to buy that for me! I want a light car for safety reasons. I said wistfully that I wished they were pink. She said I could 'wrap' it. Like Saran Wrap? 

Is this wrapping sturdy? I never heard of it.

She said to come back tomorrow and they would get one like we wanted. I think we cannot buy a newer car since the seat backs have changed. 

This woman was doing a good job helping us. She was black, but when she went back inside for something, a very stern-looking black man came back out with her. He was looking very stern. He quickly came and leaned on the window on passenger side and said, "Now, what is it you are looking for? I looked him dead in the eye without a bit of friendliness in my demeanor and said, "We have already told her what we want. She knows, and she is doing a very good job helping us." He said he was just trying to help her. I said something to the effect that it did not appear she needed any help. Finally, he asked her what we wanted. He treated her so nasty. I told her I hated he talked down to her. She said the guys in there always treated her that way. 

I told her she should get some fuzzy slippers instead of the heels she was wearing. She said she was required to wear heels, and bitterly said the guys could wear sneakers. I would hate to be in the workforce this day and age. Flat shoes are okay for teachers and researchers, thankfully. My neighbor had to wear a longline bra and a girdle and heels and hose to teach first grade! She taught 80 years ago.

We came home after picking up bread bogo at Publix. Shopping for cars is exhausting. 

We tried to pick up a prescription for me, but it was not ready for the third day. Finally, after returning and sitting in line for over 45 minutes, we got both. There were only two people/cars ahead of us. Eventually, there were 8 behind and 5 of them left. This was the cream for me to rub on my endometriosis. NOT Thankfully, there were directions on the tube. 

Chances are great we will have an outbreak of tornadoes. I will sleep here in my chair in the living room until I cannot sleep. I would hate to lose all my possessions again. The tree in the backyard will come down in the wind one day. It is so weak and large that it would come through my bedroom in the front of the house. Yikes. Lights are in place. We both have our chargers on our chairs. We won't be stuck in the reclining position...lol. 

Tommy went into the kitchen to get his dinner as I wanted none. After 30 minutes and little noise, I went there to see what was happening. He was making a pizza! I had  bought a package of three pizza crusts on sale. He said he could not make pizza because he had no pizza pan. I do think there are round pizza pans, but he was having none of it. I told him the crust would work on the big rectangular pan, and if it did not, just fold up two of the sides. 

Finally, today, I told him to remember the crusts, the pizza sauce, cheese, and the hamburger meat he had cooked. And that he could put anything on it that he wanted. So, he was making pizza. He got a huge salad and looked happy. I wonder why he pushes so about some simple things.

At this point, we are watching the weather for a possible tornado. The wind made it hard to walk up the ramp, but the wind is down now. 

Are you in danger of violent weather according to the television? 

It's About Time and Freezing Eggs

 Feb. 17

steps 12,000

Danish Pastries...lol

The hit and run occurred on December 19, 2024. Finally, on February 17, 2025, the insurance company is working. A guy called, wanting to come by between 1:30 and 2:30 to see the damage on the car and write up an estimate. 

He actually showed up. He does agree with me that the car should not be making the noise it is making. That lasted about 45 minutes with me sitting on my walker with hair still dripping from being washed. It was about 40 something and a breeze. At least my hair dried quickly. Tommy said my head felt warm...lol. 

An hour later Tommy got a call from a guy wanting to come out and see if the first guy had done the estimate correctly. Tommy said he is happy with the first guy's estimate. I want to have the first guy's work approved. So, I have that to deal with.

Tommy uncovered all my bulbs he planted. They are no longer ghostly white. They are a healthy green and putting out more sprouts. These were the free bulbs.

We have done absolutely nothing today. We went to grocery store and got two half gallons of my milk white it was still cheap--$9 for two half gallons and a few other items. I always need bananas! We ate leftovers, so no prep and no cooking. Tomorrow, Tommy will find my bought bags of bulbs and plant them. He does not know it yet.

Tommy and I talked it over, and I think I will freeze a few eggs even though I have found no shortage and eggs are a bit over $5/dozen. At this point, the bird flu is not waning. I have a package of Ova Eggs that I need to locate and try. I wish I still had hens! I have frozen eggs many times, so no experimenting or learning. I freeze in Ball jars of all sizes. Are you freezing eggs?

Nerves are Shot

 This is the third post today--Friday, and SHOOT SHOOT SHOOT came first. Read about the car crash in the last one.

We have found out nothing about the other driver. We have questions and cannot find out. Did he have a DL? Drinking? On drugs? Was he a citizen of US? Was he still speeding when police nabbed him around the corner? 

When I was nagging Tommy about getting insurance that would give us a rental car in case of an accident, he said he did only because I nagged him. Now, he tells me he did not get the coverage. Can I say--urge to kill?

We were on the way to the Christmas Parade. Policeman said, "What parade??" Well. the parade was last Saturday! grrr I got up early for nothing.

Cleaner's daughter put color on my hair, using about an inch of color in stead of whole 3 inches. So, my hair looks like nothing was done. I am going to a Christmas party and this is disappointing to me. And, I paid her. And, paid mother who watched!

The car is not drivable, but Tommy disagreed. Yes, guy at a garage said it was. Finally, Tommy could hear it. We have two trips across town and on interstate, plus a trip out of town. Tommy sits. No call to the insurance or body shop before any closed. I am so disgusted with inaction.

I am woozy because I am famished, blood sugar down. Tommy is bringing me milk, one piece of candy, and banana. I ate that with small piece of pork loin and big salad. 

Okay, I reminded him until he called to check to see if he had rental. He does! Now, he is using ten times the words he needs and not expressing what he wants to say! Now someone says he does not have rental! Okay, now someone says he does have coverage. Whew!

I found the perfect bag of Christmas candy today at Publix--Holiday Candy Dish, chocolate candy assortment with Reese's peanut butter cup miniatures, Hershey's assorted Miniatures, Hershey's Kisses Milk Chocolates, Rolo Candy. All except Rolo are favorites. With this bag a person does not have to buy several bags, just one. This is the limit to our Christmas candy. For two people it is not much. Years ago, I would eat half a dozen of the single candy bags would be my choice. I am fatter, sicker and smarter now. 

Ah, Christmas lights, Kisses, and Miniatures. This wreck stressed me!

Bedtime will be early tonight.  

Tuesday-I Thought it Was Wednesday

 Tommy told me he was annoyed with the valet service losing our car and told the guy in charge. I thought he was just talking to the guys. He told them he was tired, hungry, and annoyed with the wait. I wondered why the guy apologized so profusely as we were ready to drive away. So, I was wrong. 

While I was sitting patiently, he was complaining. I think I was still in shock from the pain and just grateful not to be in the exam room anymore. 

We went grocery shopping again today! I had Tommy go into store with the turkey breast for $1.69. They will be in tomorrow. 

We took neighbor dinner--pork loin, slaw, sweet potato. When I called as we were in the car, he said he had made dinner. I told him he could eat it tomorrow night. When he came to our car, he said he was going to get out a small lasagna.  Teasing him, I said this dinner might be better. We left him laughing. 

Tommy is shocked he has to cook the rue for my giblet gravy. Right now, I have the eggs boiling to put in giblet gravy. This dinner may take until Friday to get done. He hates gravy, so this is not important to him.

I lost one more pound. YAY for me. I suppose I can put it and more back on with Thanksgiving. 

I have burns and huge lumps where I don't have burns! Remember, all this happened from collar bone up. So, it seems very visible. But, I have a prescription of Mupirocin for the burned and raw places she made. I actually look like I have been hit in the face multiple times. I am glad I am going nowhere where people can see my face. Thankfully, my mask hides it when I go out. Usually, the blasting only hardens the skin. This time, it is a raw, open sore on more than a few. And, there are lumps. 

Last night, I slept from 11 pm to 7:30 am. I hope this good pattern continues. I just had to have a nap today after all the busyness of the morning. Hopefully, I can still sleep early tonight.

I just discovered a new show--St. Denis Medical. I think this is the second season. It is hilarious. The mother from the Goldbergs is so funny. Have you seen this? 

There is so much still to do. Right now, Tommy is exhausted from carrying in groceries and two cases of Dasani.

How is your Thanksgiving dinner coming along?

Not Much Today

 It appears my car has sold (will be) for the $6K Firm I am asking. Mower called and said in about two days, his son would buy it. I hope I have not spoken too soon. Tomorrow, I will change the oil. He will pick it up in two days.

We mailed our ballots today, none too soon. We asked a neighbor to be a witness to our signatures and drove to his house across the street on the way to the PO. Then, we brought bread and milk, drove through the park and home.

There are so many silver SUVs out and about. Every time I get out of the car at a store, I cannot find Tommy. I try to put groceries in different cars. So frustrating. He honks when I am off course.  With the Nissan, I instructed the guy helping me to put it into a police SUV. Guy said, "Are you sure?" He would not open the police SUV even when I insisted. 

Do you ever lose your car in the parking lot outside a store? Or anywhere?

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?

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.

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? 

Good Things Come to Those Who Cake

The above was on the birthday card from Janet. Thanks, Janet!  She knows me well. Well, I did cake! And, I lost another pound. 

 I survived!

Despite having only two nights' sleep last night and a grueling doctor visit all the way across Birmingham, I think I might be getting better. 

This affliction has not caused my temperature to rise. Neck hurt one day. I had a few of my normal sneezing fits. Once in a while, I coughed a week little clearing-my-throat cough. Other than that, I have been almost to the point of not being able to walk, wobbly, weak, pain all over. I truly hope whatever it is going away. 

As you may remember, besides the gifts for my birthday, I had food visits planned. Tuesday, when I was in Publix, I decided that over the weekend, I would get Chicken Mushroom Wild Rice from Publix soup bar. It was on their chart for Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday. I was so ill on Saturday and decided today was the day. No soup for me! It did not come in. So, I wanted something. Tommy suggested ice cream cone. 

Then, he mentioned DQ and I wanted a Blizzard. He usually gets me a small because I want a 'small one.' That is not smallest! This time I said 'tiniest' one. The mini was what I wanted--something that was chocolate twice. It was $4.97 for the 6 oz. mini. There are 128 ounces in a gallon. That makes 21 mini servings in a gallon. So $4.97 x 21= $104.37/gal. Can you imagine anything so expensive??? I think this is the first Blizzard I have had in over a year. 

Sunday, I had my taste buds set for the soup that was not there on Saturday, Tommy brought it out and vegetable soup for him. It was so delicious! Free from Publix for my birthday, I received a bar cake. Carrot Cake. 

Today, after Tommy's appointment, we had a Chic-fil-A sandwich, no pickle. He asked for mustard for me. I heard him ask twice. I didn't say anything because I figured maybe they had no mustard. Gues what? They do! He, of course, swears he said "honey mustard." grrr

Because of the four-day holiday, Tommy was without his Dexcom G7 for a week. Then, because of incorrect information, he had to pay $150.00 for one sensor that lasts 10 days! Because Tommy does not give complete information, I chimed in. Based on what I said, she reversed what she had just said. He does not realize what is relevant information. 

When she heard from me what his breakfast is, she vetoed that because his blood sugar was rising too much eating Honey Nut Cheerios and milk. She told him to eat an egg. I told her he does not like egg. So, she said to eat cottage cheese. No, he hates that. So, she told me to find a protein he would eat and give him that...lol. When I lived alone, I would grab and small bit of chicken breast about two thumb sized piece. It worked for me. He is not too eager to eat that. I asked her what would work, something he could carry with him in the car. She suggested protein bars or protein shakes. 

I have been telling him for years that his breakfast makes his blood sugar rise too high! 

In the car I mentioned protein bites with oats, chocolate, peanut butter and whatever. He said it did not sound good. I would love those. I refuse to put chia in mine, but he might like chia. 

They copied his receiver information and he turned in his food log. I told her when we at popcorn, it was free of salt or butter. She said what mattered was how much he ate. He put down everything he ate, but he left off amounts. 

So maybe Tommy learned something from the exchanges between the doctor and myself. I told him I would get him a smaller cereal bowl. He said he would just eat less. Well, I am trying to get rid of the Cool Whip Bowl that he never washes, just stores it and the spoon in the refrigerator. I tried for about 3 years to get him to change bowls. Maybe I need to get a Dr. Who bowl for him. 

I need a nap, but, I need to cook chicken before it goes off. Two quarts of strawberries are waiting, too. 

I wore pants I ordered from eBay and love them. From Walmart I ordered two nightgowns and a bathrobe. The bathrobe smells of chemical. One nightgown does not fit. One, I love. So, those two pieces must go back. The other nightgown is okay. (I tried it on and it is nice and long, love it. The fabric for Tommy's curb chairs came and is great. I may order some from this place to upholster my kitchen chairs. When all is said and done, I suppose these four chairs will cost about $40. I had to have new seat bottoms cut, bought this material, and will need to purchase padding for the chairs since the other was about 50 years old and rotten. Four years ago, I paid $20 for someone to cut four new chair bottoms since the others were pressed wood and disintegrating. 

Okay, I slept only three hours. I feel almost fully recovered from this sinus problem. It is almost 10 pm. I just gt up. I have to sleep well tonight. 

I told Tommy I want a new, large tv for the living room. He has been adamant that is not happening. So, I told him I want another necklace from Jared's or a new tv. My birthday is Wednesday, so we will see. I would not claim the tv, just have access to something larger than the 32" tv that is sitting very and low hard to see. Oh, I want it hung on the wall, too, for easy viewing. Plus, I have stumbled toward the tv many times. Once, I even touched it, grabbing it for support and righting it. Besides, I have a console table I want to put on that wall that is so much nicer than the very short coffee table on which the tv sits. 

I do want to eat at Cracker Barrel and get the four meals for $5 each. Or, maybe it is another place. 

Oh, I am tired of his dragging his feet on car purchase! Football has started and he informed me on Friday when Auburn was playing on Saturday. I told him if he cannot plan and carry through on car shopping, we will go whenever, even during Auburn games. This will assure he plans! Football games will be my nap time. 

Okay, need to go plate my dinner. 

Do you have any recipes for protein bites/bars? I want ones you have tried. 

Late Monday and Tuesday and Electrical Problem

 About 4 pm on Monday, we got busy with food. Tommy cooked ground sausage, put it into a glass container and refrigerated it within 30 minutes, maybe sooner. I chopped the last Vidalia onion, put a snack bag in refrigerator to use, two snack bags in a freezer bag for the freezer. Tommy washed two Bell Peppers, and I cut in strips, one snack bag for him in refrigerator and a pint bag for freezer.  I cooked the last two burgers for dinner. We both had salad or slaw. I had a lot of tomato. After dinner, I hung up clothes to dry in the house. He hung them in the door.  Whew! I meant to cook a big package of boneless, skinless, chicken thighs with vegetables. Still not done on Tuesday.

One Tuesday, we forgot the Farmer's Market. It is on a list now. Otherwise, we will let the day slip away. It is open from 4-7 pm and only on Tuesday, easy to forget at the end of the day. We need tomatoes. We went too late today.

Tommy and I forgot the two returns we needed to make. Actually, it is more than just 'forgetting.'

I gathered some things from here to give to woman I helped. She had never heard of Cooking Bags. Now, she has a box ready in a bag with 2 bags of Christmas print freezer bags--one pint, one quart.

Since my cleaner is really busy, I may ask this woman to clean. I know she won't want to take money, but that is the only way we can do it. 

Someone asked why I thought cleaner flaked out. She has one really hard job, another part-time job, church activities, and may have had another surgery, but for sure one scheduled in September. I will ask mower, her friend, what the problem is. If she is not going to come back other than once a month, I need someone else. 

Tuesday, and we did little. We went too late to the market because I was taking a nap and Tommy forgot, too. That's okay because Wednesday will be a hard day. 

I did go over Piggly Wiggly ad on internet and found bscb for $1.99. Other deals are already on a list. I cannot find Publix ad on internet, rather, on email where I usually click.

The car dealer who had two cars we wanted keeps calling, different person each time. I actually had excuses why I could not talk the first two times. I left my cell with Tommy to take calls. Well, he just yelled at the person to leave us alone, that we were not interested. I wonder if that will deter them. 

Examining as well as I could, the fixture was installed over the sink incorrectly. I can see wires joined outside of a box by twisting wires together with nothing covering them--no electrical tape or the little plastic covers for wires. That will give me nightmares. When I moved here, I asked son of woman who lives next door for recommendation for electrical. He said he could put up the dining room fixture. Tonight, I had Tommy tape a note in plastic bag to railing for steps, asking her to ask him for name of electrician who would actually show up. So, maybe this will be done soon.  

The plan was to put color on my hair today. Maybe. Maybe not.

Do you think it is harder to get an electrician now than it was a few years ago? Why do you think so?

Busy Thursday

 Today was a hard day for me. Staying out for five hours destroys me.  When we finally got home and settled, I took a nap. I turn on music, get into bed and on left side, put something over my eyes, arrange my hands so they don't hurt, and usually go to sleep, aware I am drowsy. Today, I don't remember covering my eyes. I was that sleepy. My hands must have arranged themselves. 

Tommy took with us a frozen bottle of water, and I took the bottle carrier. We gave it to the woman. She was loaded down with purse, larger bottle holder, then the one we gave her. But, she was deliriously happy with frozen water and the carrier.

We got the food and wanted little of what was there, so went to a store and gave it to a young woman who teared up and said this came at the right time as she was struggling. I teared up, too. I think we may buy for her for Christmas instead of donating coats. 

I went to Publix and shopped the bogo things. I bought zinc since Tewshooz said she needed it for thyroid problems. 

The mower came, mowed, and put in the dusk to dawn bulb. Since I wanted to talk with him, I had told Tommy to call me if/when he came. He did not have time to do what I wanted, so I was up for nothing. He did take pictures of my car to sell it. 

Lunch: Tommy has lived here for forty years and has eaten at a hotdog place about a half mile from here on a main road. For almost five years, I have mentioned eating there. Today, with my pushing, we did. These were long, skinny hotdogs. I had mine plain and brought it home and put my mustard on it. Tommy had everything on his. We split an order of fries with him getting the lion's share. The cost was less that $9. I was shocked it cost so little. So, now I have been there. He eats better now that I am here, so need to get another hotdog from there. 

I called a2milk company and asked why the price leap. The woman looked it up and they still sell the milk for the same price to distributor. 

Today, I started planning my birthday week. So far, I have Chicken Salad Chick, KFC, and Bright Star. Maybe Jim n Nicks.

Dinner: Tommy had a huge salad with hamburger meat, cheese, tomato, catsup, and mustard on top. I had the same size salad with olive oil, tomato, and Parmesan/Romano cheese. 

I picked up the medicine insert and read that this antibiotic suppresses appetite. I was so surprised. Now, I know why I have no appetite, never hungry. 

One doctor sent the answer to a question I left on message machine. The endocrinologist nurse has not returned my call from Tuesday!

Tonight, I went into back bedroom to get things out for shelf in kitchen, tuna, especially. I stepped on something sharp. It was a sewing needle! I have not had a needle in there. The room has been vacuumed several times. Plus, it is not the kind of needle I use. I am afraid of the puncture wound. As excruciating as the pain was, I cannot remember which foot it punctured. I won't go barefoot in there again. 

The weather has been so mild that I don't feel suffocated when I get into the car. But, as it does, the weather will heat up to almost suffocating temps and humidity before long. 

Thursday was a day of little things, nothing earthshaking, all positive, but it exhausted me. I will edit nothing.

Do you ever have a day of little things that seems overwhelming and exhausting? 

Car Shopping and Best News

 Sort of...

After the fiasco of a doctor visit, I wanted to redeem the day with something positive toward our goals. Well, car dealer had other thoughts. 

We went to Bessemer to car lots, passing four lots on the way to his target. Well, there was only one car there, obviously the person who was going to lock the door on the way out. 

So, we went back to the other lots. One only had one SUV; one had the entrance blocked; another had only trucks, it appeared; one had so little room we feared we could not get out. 

Then, we went to place that had the Buick. This is third time there. The first time, we told the guy D I was too tired to get out and we would return. We did but could not get out to vehicles because there was a car blocking the circle of vehicles. Someone moved that obstacle and we drove the Buick around the lot. I was having trouble walking and it was sooo hot. I told the guy R that I had to go. After the other lots above, I wanted to go back to this lot. 

The guy R came to the car. I asked about getting in to see the cars. The guy fiddled with a tiny piece of paper and asked if we came about the Buick. (Oh, I did ask why they kept the circle of cars blocked. He said, "Because we don't want people driving into there and bumping cars.) I said, "No." He said, "Which one do you want to see." I said, "I don't know." He just stood there, did not look at me, and continued fiddling with the piece of paper that was smaller than a gum wrapper. I continued to look at him, wondering if he was going to say anything. Then, somehow, my window slowly went up. He turned on his heels at that point and left. 

STRANGE!

We came home.

Somehow, I slept wrong Monday night, and my neck was stiff the next morning. Tuesday night it was not better. This morning, Wednesday, it seems to have gone into my shoulder blade/back. The TV is to the left of me, so it is hard to watch TV without sort of turning my body. I take a baby aspirin every night, so I may take 2 or 3 tonight. We don't have regular aspirin in the house. Neither of us take anything for pain. We just hurt...lol. 

We forgot to get the ads today, but I was napping part of the day. We will do that as soon as I round up Tommy...lol. 

Best news of all. I am rarely hungry! And, I have lost more weight. I hear about elderly people not wanting much to eat. Am I there? Amithere? Hurray!

Early evening, I mentioned to Tommy he needed to cook the package of pork for the taco soup. OH SHOOT!!! What? He said he forgot to take it out of the freezer. I told him we could just boil it to thaw it. I think he was relieved I was not irritated. Yes, I do get irritated when he does not get out a chunk of frozen chicken breasts that I have reminded him about for three days.

Taco Soup--ground pork, Five Cheese Italian Shredded Cheese, Taco Seasoning, two cans black beans-drain, one can whole kernel corn, two cans tomato bits or chunks, 1/2 cup Uncle Ben's Parboiled Rice. Put as much or as little as you like of any of this to your taste. I am not as thrilled with the corn as everything else, so I put less. This is actually double the recipe. Okay, I do not double the rice.

I will freeze enough for two generous helpings. The night we opened a package when we were starving and exhausted, was a happy occasion for us. It will happen again. This was a great meal for that occasion. I will have a salad, also, tonight. Okay, I finally am hungry! Very hungry. 

Stevie Wonder is playing and singing at DNC. 

Doctor's office has not called me back. I gave her all day so I could not be blamed for rushing her or nurse.

About 6pm I realized we had not gotten ads. We got them and there are sales/bogo to buy. YAY!

I forgot to call about the dog today and yesterday. But, both days we have tried to call the dog and nothing. So, maybe someone rescued it. 

The weather has been surprisingly mild here, especially during mornings and evenings. Of course, and thankfully, the heat is coming back. We still are under a drought. That is hard to believe when we see people drowning, roads flooding, and houses with water in them in other areas of the country. 

Tomorrow, the plan is to go across town to Home Depot for a door and to used car lots.

What are your plans for Thursday? 

. 

Bypassing Amazon

 No, I am not feeling better. Could not sleep last night, did not try today. I am going to bed very early tonight.

We went to get bread, milk, and bananas. I needed to go and do something, somewhere but told Tommy I could not handle anymore. My bread was bogo. Tommy got one loaf last week and another today. I took ten slices out of the last loaf and put it into freezer bags. two slices in each bag. The one he got today will get the same treatment. Since I now have room in the freezer, I can save money on bread. 

We are eating protein from the freezer, so maybe by turkey breast sale time, I can add a few of those for next year. Right now, we are eating cooked protein. There is some frozen that maybe I can get thawed and cooked, and refrozen for quick meals. 

We did get from the local hardware a light bulb with a sensor in it that turns the light on at dusk and off at dawn, only $8. He brought it out to us, took the cc, and brought it back to car. Good deal. Better than Lowe's!

We came home and I still had not put the clean car in the carport nor had I looked to see what was in the trunk that needed to come out. If we do it now, we will not have to ask the buyers or pay cleaner or mower. The trunk was stuffed full. Really, that was where I put plastic I used on lawn to paint things. So, not as full as it looked. One thing had to come in. We can do a box each day. Half the trunk had the thin tarps. I need to paint, so I will keep them to use for that, bundled into a bag. 

Tommy chose the red Rubbermaid box. Inside, I found all sort of Christmas and Auburn stuff, bought on sale, obviously. I put one Auburn object on Tommy's chair. He tossed it aside and didn't murmur a word. I will get it back tomorrow when he is out of the chair. He never, ever says thank you. Remember that he graduated from Auburn. 

Latest project--making a dowel thing to hang his Auburn banner. I did find a bit to declutter in car I am selling. Decluttered my table by my chair so it won't accumulate. Red box is still sitting, waiting on me.

I only got three calls out of dozen made today. But, that is still a win considering how awful I feel. 

My teeth are flossed and brushed, so I will not eat more. Besides, it is 9:30, and I intend to be in bed by 10 pm. 

I need to shine up the chrome on the car to make it look extra spiffy and clean out the two little pockets on each door. Huggies Wipes are handy.

Okay, had meds to take, so will try to stay awake until 10:30 in order not to have reflux. 

Have you ever used a bulb with sensor in the bulb to turn light off and on with the sun? 

 

Feeling Much Better

 Friday, we both had prescriptions to pick up at the pharmacy. Tommy had one and I had two. One of my prescriptions needed a PA, so I left it. I was surprised when I still received two prescriptions. One was for uti. I thought the doctor was not sending it. He sent it two days before! So, one dose on Friday and the first on Saturday has me fit as a fiddle.

Well, I think I am okay then try to go out and one store does me in. I don't even have to go in, just sit while Tommy shops or returns something. I bought a shower rack thing that sticks to the shower. Only one suction was included. This was not a piece that someone stole. It was tightly packed and sealed. Ugh! While he was returning it, I got another. All this was a pain in the neck and left me exhausted. We had to come home, and I went straight to bed for a much-needed nap. 

On Saturday, the friend who has wanted to buy my car came, brought her father, both drove it, and she left a $6000.00 check so I would hold it and trade for cash sometime this week. Yay! They both were shocked at how clean it was inside and out, especially inside. Her father drove it about one mile and commented to her that the steering was as tight as a new car. 

I forgot I hit one of those yellow things in front of car when parking. I told her is had no scratches. I forgot that one. I don't know whether to confess or let her husband find it when he comes with her to pick it up. It is still the same price. They are worried about whether the oil is dark and needs changing. Maybe. But, I won't be changing that for them. If they want to change it before leaving, there are plenty of oil change businesses here. 

Tommy is dragging his feet on car shopping. Of course, I have not felt well. Maybe this week we can get out when it is not raining. 

So funny--I had to explain to Tommy what a 'bodice ripper" was. Man had never heard that term. He clues me in to things all time.

Did you notice the cold front that came through?

Flooding, Deluge, Electrician, Cars

                                                                 Better goose picture

 Friday, cleaner came. Tommy made the spaghetti sauce from a box with my direction. It was delicious, but I had no Kraft's Parmesan in the green container. So, I had to eat freshly grated Romano. It was disappointing without cheese I wanted.

The cleaner was here with fresh surgery for her trigger thumb.  I never knew it had a name, but I had the same condition. I just slammed my thumb against my leg to loosen it so it would bend. It horrified her to hear it. It shocked other people, too, when I did this. 

Saturday, Tommy and I made a little progress with getting things out of the way so the electrician could put up three fixtures. I went to bed at 8:30, around the time I would have posted. Of course, I only slept until 2:30. I think I finally went back to bed around 4 am and woke at 9 am this morning, Sunday. 

I did not nap Friday, Saturday, or Sunday--amazing.

Tommy and I took things off the table behind sink, in window and both sides of the sink. We sat and waited, and the electrician never came. No response to my calls. I am so frosted over this. Just before 1 pm today, Tommy could not find the third fixture. So, we went about 4 to Lowe's, one that has better help and selection, I hear. 

As we went South, it appeared a storm was brewing. I told him to get off at University drive and it would be easy to turn around. NOOOO, he knew an easier place to turn around about five miles south, right into the storm. We could barely see to drive. Then, when he turned to go home, the storm was worse! We finally got back to our Lowe's and I bought a fixture and bulbs. We wanted bread, so went to Publix the long way! The rain was coming, so I just said to go home without bread. 

Tommy said he would go in. The rain got worse and worse! Finally, he came out with a guy holding an umbrella over the two of them. The rain was so severe that we could not see through the windshield as we sat. Out the side windows we could not see out of the parking lot. We sat for one hour. He was so wet and cold that he used a piece of material to keep him warm and we turned off the ac.  It was barely sprinkling when we decided to come home. 

On the way home, we passed over a drainage ditch/creek that usually has about a foot of water. Now, it was up to the bridge over five feet higher. It was scary. The entrance to the neighborhood was flooded with maybe ten inches of water. Thankfully, our neighborhood is higher. On the crawl at the top of the TV screen, Hueytown was listed as a place with danger of flooding. I have never seen this town listed in flood warnings. 

We still have not gotten our purchases from the car. Oh, I bought one under-the-counter light. If I like it, we will get one more. 

Saturday, I wanted a BLT. I had one and then the filling for another. It was all so delicious. Today, that is why we wanted bread--so we could have another BLT. Bacon is all eaten, but we have delicious tomatoes that will make a great tomato sandwich. 

Now, we need to find two more cars like the one place had that we wanted. However, I will not sign in and give my name, address, zip code and phone number to look. 

It is almost 9 pm, and I think I cannot stay up one more minute. Tomorrow, I will tell you about the cardiologist visit. 

I am still fretting over those two cars. We could knuckle under and buy them, but I don't want to do that. Should I give in and not get anything off, and just buy them? 

Tomorrow, I will search for new electrician. Plus, we need to move things so we can function in the kitchen. I will press on with the car search. 

Are you watching the Olympics?