Staying Out of Trouble

Feb 3

steps 10,450

 Today has been another slow day. I did not sleep at all Saturday night. So, all my sleeping was during the day. I slept three hours today with no nap, so hopefully I will sleep well tonight. 

For dinner I had: tuna, MW, chopped carrots, and two boiled eggs eaten with two huge Romaine leaves. Tommy ate something. Then, I made pimiento and cheese and packed me a sandwich for tomorrow when we are out. Tommy will make his out of whatever he wants. 

I finally tried fixing the no-color problem on my hair. I still have hair that is white. The doctor won't care. I will, very much will. 

As I was telling Tommy something from the past, I decided to see if this very nice man from our church was still with us so I could get in touch. Nope. Dead. Then, I looked up another family in another location and cannot find her. The death is not overwhelming, bringing me grief. But, where is the other family??? I will work on that another day. 

My Victoza is promised for Wednesday. I do hope I get it because I cannot stand the anxiety I went through not having meds and having to go 64 miles to get only enough for two or three weeks.

The weather was beautiful, a little humid and the temperature was about 76F, I think. That is what Tommy told me. I only made one call of the many I need to make, but there is tomorrow. 

We are still inundated with glitter from the deer I hit and rolled around with on the front porch! I even get it in my bed, off my feet, I suppose.

The abandoned house next door has a fire ant mound that is two feet in diameter and about a foot tall. I am going to go over there and use Amdro around it. Hopefully, I won't get in trouble. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

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? 

Thursday Nothings

 Wednesday night, I slept 11 hours and woke exhausted! This is not right!

Thursday afternoon, we went to buy the church lunch. It was enormous and way too much. I had forgotten it had two thick patties. I had cheese, lettuce, tomatoes on mine. Fries and potato salad came with it. Next time, we are either going to share a burger, or I will cut mine in half and save it for another meal. I gave Tommy most of my fries and ate only a bit of the potato salad. This was $25 for the building fund. It will probably be next year before we go back. 

On the way home, I wanted to go "look at cars," Well, we did, barely slowing down in the lots. After we left the lots, I asked Tommy where we were going. "Home." He objected to my objecting, saying, "You said you wanted to look at cars. We did." Jerk. Next time, I will have to tell him I want to touch, sit in and maybe drive the cars. We will be going out of town for three days and two nights. Having to lease a car for that time will probably not make him happy. 

After we watched Jeopardy, the burger made me sleepy. I went to bed at 5 pm. When I awoke at a bit after 8, I asked Tommy if it were morning or night. I was surprised it was night. I actually felt like I had slept all night. Thirty minutes later, I was exhausted again. I typed this paragraph with my eyes closed and head back. Amazingly, I only made one mistake. 

I managed to lose one of Tommy's credit cards! I used it in The Pig, the last I saw it. So, he had to call to cancel and get a new card. He was mildly irritated but did not really get angry. In 24 hours no one had used it. I strongly expect the cc is around here or in the car. 

We only have a bit of gentle rain from Helene. Hopefully, the winds will be as mild. I plugged my lift chair into the battery pack instead of the wall so I won't be stranded in my chair if electricity goes off. Making sure at least one light is handy is all we need to do. There are plenty of lights, but one light will get us to them. Once I used by booklight to see to get down the hall. I just hope the wind does not blow the big tree down on the house. 

I had lost weight then regained some of it. Tonight, I am within one pound of my lowest. So, good for me. 

Still laughing at Tommy's "looking at cars."

Is Helene causing you weather problems?

Do you ever sleep so long and still feel exhausted?

Accomplishments Today

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

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

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

Sent egift card to granddaughter from Amazon. 

Electrician coming to put up three light fixtures.

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

Called tree service and no call as promised to me.

Tommy got my Dawn from under sink.

Found out when lunch served at church.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I think I can get in one more call.

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

I added another three calls.

How was your day today? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No questions. I am too tired.

Window Shopping

 Today, we went to Cullman--mail, lunch pickup, cans to salvage for money-$6.15, Publix, Lowe's. Off in the distance when we came over hills, there was a haze. Other than that, the day was sunny and beautiful. The haze was from controlled burns all over the state. It was eerie. 

Plus, I window shopped. This place sells guns, fishing equipment, knives, shoes, canning supplies, kitchenware, tape, nails, paintbrushes and painting supplies, can crushers, Ball jars/lids/flats, gaskets for Pressure canners, Hummingbird feeders, hammers, cast iron little red rocker, coffeemakers, car fobs. They also test pressure canner pressure.

Tommy love the sign on the door--Wanted-Browsers    No Experience Necessary. 

When I need something, I park in front of store in the angle parking on the street, call them, and tell them what I need. Someone brings it out for me to examine and buy by giving the guy a  card. While the person is inside, I window shop from the car. Today, I had the guy bring back some of of pancake cooker. It was cast iron with a wooden handle. The batter made little poufs of the pastry. Or, you could make something savory...for $49. It was too heavy for me, not something I wanted to stand and make, and too expensive for the little use I would get. While he was talking to me, I saw a ladle hanging in the window, so he brought it out for me to examine. I did buy that. 

Isn't that a lovely way to shop? Of course, it only works well when you know exactly what you want. When I was capable of walking in, I loved to look at all the things I had never seen before or just did not know still existed. There are probably 10,000 different types of items in this store. It was actually three stores but this guy has doors between, cut to make easy access. I often describe it as a mercantile. 

There was only curly kale at Lowes, and there were no cayenne pepper plants so I can make hot pepper jelly. 

Before covid the lunch was an eat-in experience. They changed it to a pick-up and have not changed back. Lunch: ham, collard greens, kidney beans, cornbread, Buddy Bars. Everything was delicious. We ate it all. Well, Tommy ate my kidney beans. I told Tommy I would not eat the cornbread if there were sugar in it. No sugar. 

The other two plates were brought home for our dinner. Tommy can get that while I sleep. We picked up two plates for my ninety-two-year-old friend who is really ill with chest congestion and her husband who is two years older. I am worried about her. 

I am off for a nap. 

Resident Alien was on when he woke me at 9. He turned off the ac, so I awoke so hot. He ate dinner without me fretting there was only leftovers that maybe he did not want again. 

Do you have a store where you can park and the people who own the store will get what you need or want and bring it to the car? 

Car Shopping

 Wednesday, we went to Cullman and had lunch. Then, we shopped for a new vehicle. We tried 2 just sitting in them and driving around the huge parking lot. We took another one for a drive down the highway. The seat hurt my back and the seat was not very deep. I felt like I was perched on a narrow bench. The salesman saw our car seat and commented that it was deep. Otherwise, we would have driven it home. I wish I could get a more comfortable seat exchanged for this uncomfortable one. 

Today was exhausting. We ate our pick up lunch at the lake. It was serene. Then we headed off to the car dealership, PO, and Publix, and home. `

Lunch was 16 oz. bowl of soup. A salad in 12 oz cup, dressing crackers, and an oatmeal sandwich cookie with overly sweet cream filling. Tommy ate both soups while I ate both salads. I bought a chicken tender at Publix. 

For dinner Tommy had another bowl of soup. I went to bed. When I got up around 10 pm, I had cottage cheese and applesauce. I was too tired to chew. 

My gastro doctor's nurse called me. I had called and left a message about the endocrinologist who was supposed to have called. She assured me they had contacted the endocrinologist. True to everything I have experienced, his nurse was wonderful. 

I am still trying to figure out why I did not know I had gallstones and why I am not being treated for them. 

I am exhausted! The ride is hard enough on me. Throw in getting in and out of the car, negotiating, and all that car buying/shopping entails and I may recover next week! 

Does car shopping/buying exhaust you in the best of conditions? 

No Means No! STOP Means STOP!

 We went to Cullman today and took a Christmas gift to our friends in their nineties. Since theyhad a yard with many trees, they could hang the two bluebirds and the cardinal in the trees. At the duplex where they are moving this week, there is not one tree. I was afraid of that. So, I bought four chains with hooks on the end for hanging whatever. 

They were not home, so we left. Before we came home, I decided we could leave it in the mailbox which is on the porch. Since their daughter owns the house, we thought maybe no one would come on the porch. 

Well, the second time, they were there and came out to the car. I also gave them their Christmas card that was ready, in the envelope, and stamped. I did remove the stamp before I handed her the card. Sixty-something cents is a lot to pay for nothing. 

Tommy tooted the horn and the husband came out when he saw us. 

The last time we were in their house, he started poking my arm just below the shoulder where there are bone spurs. I said OW and pulled away as he came back at me, declaring that could not hurt. After a half-dozen times, I raised my voice. He would not let up until his wife told him to stop. Boundaries were crossed and he would not give up!

Part of his problem is he is a minister who thinks it is okay if he does anything. He may have been embarrassed as well he should be. I have to tell you, I cannot stand most ministers. They act so entitled and push back against any autonomy you may wish to hold for yourself.

Then, another time, they came to the car and he was poking me again, and sort of squeezing the shoulder joint. I was upset and continually pulled away. He finally went to Tommy's side of the car. 

Today, he gave up and said he would just bonk my nose. I yelled at him as he was reaching into the car and trying to get to my nose. He said, "Oh, you don't like that?" 

"HELL NO!" That response from me did not faze him at all. He tried twice more with me blocking him.

About that time, today, his wife came out, and finally told him to stop. Tommy raised his voice after the third time trying to reach my nose. This is not senility. He is sharp.  Neither time did he stop. 

I was so upset. This went on for more than five minutes, about 4 minutes and forty-five seconds more that teasing should. 

The next time, I will direct him to Tommy's side of the car. It seems he is obsessed with touching me to annoy me and to get his way. 

Men who assume any kind of touching with me objecting is okay, really don't know me or respect me.

Enough of that.

We went to a grocery store that carries Dromedary pimientos. I bought four for $1.19 each. At the Pig, I paid the price + 10%, making the total $1.44 each.

At Publix, I bought goat cheese with blueberries and the last bag of Ocean Spray cranberries. At the store with pimientos, I bought another two but for $0.29 cents more. 

We ate lunch at Chicken Salad Chick. I had a scoop of classic Carol and potato soup. It all seemed too salty. I asked Tommy if we had thought salt was tasty all along. He had Fruity Fran and Potato soup. They discontinued his favorite--Chicken Noodle Soup.  I did not eat the crackers or cookies. Both of us asked for the pickle to be left off our order.

At Belk's I could not find house shoes, so brought home three pair to try on since it was time to leave to get home before dark. But, it got dark before we came home.. There was no scarf like I wanted. All the decorations were so pretty as we walked by. 

We are exhausted.  

At what point should I have hit this guy? 

Lunch and Dinner From the Market

Tuesday was a free lunch day: baked beans with sliced sausages in the dish, two slices tomato, two slices onion, buttered hot bread, and cake. We were not inspired to get a go plate.

We took two garbage  bags of Coke cans to salvage yard. For 2 garbage bags of aluminum cans (3 lbs.), I got  $1.80, enough to buy a loaf of bread with money left over.  I went to CVS to use a 30% off coupon. When I could not find what I needed, I went to WM. Then to bank and a trip to drive around the park and lake. Everything is so green, cool, and peaceful.

Hives have been appearing all over me for about a week. They have been small and few. But, on Monday larger hives were appearing on my neck. THAT frightens me. I was too exhausted to stay awake and monitor myself. I am alive.

Dinner tonight: chicken, potatoes, squash, onions, tomatoes, field peas with snaps, strawberries. He will take some home, too. Most came from the market.

When I bought tomatoes for $5, I had $1 left on  a coupon, so I asked the guy for $1 worth of squash. He gave me four nice squash for the other $1, a good deal. I do buy lots from him, so he takes care of customers.Canntt find glasses. cannot see to edit.

I am so hot I cannot search for glasses! I put on my big girl panties and searched even though I was in pain! So, I found them.

After cooking beans and corn, I was so hot and exhausted, I did not eat with him. Once I rest and it cools off, I will eat.

Cardiologist Visit

On Tuesday we went to the bank and then to the church lunch. We had taco salad, chips, and cake. I decided to eat the taco salad with beef and suffered greatly as soon as I ate it and even worse when we got home.

It looks like a2milk prices might become lower. Exbf said there are commercials for it all the time on NBC. Two half gallons were $8 at the store. It seems there are more specials for it. Spending much less than the usual $4.69/half gallon would please me.

I cooked chicken, potatoes, and carrots in an oven bag. The vegetables were done and the chicken was tender. I took it out of the oven and placed it on the top of the stove, forgetting the oven had been on. Sooo, the vegetables were shrunken and chicken was dry. However, it was delicious, even without any salt or other flavoring. No doctor has ever suggested I need to lower my salt intake, but just avoid it as much as I can. Fried potatoes or French fries are the exception to minimally salting.

Wednesday
Soon, I will leave for cardiologist. With one phone call, I discovered there is a history of heart disease in my family. Funny how that never came up!

I arrived at the cardiologist at 11:40  and finally left at 2:00. I was exhausted. The doctor I waited an extra month to see was not there since he was called away for some sort of emergency, heart related, I presume. However, I really like the guy I saw. I have another procedure besides the one today, the electrocardiogram. Plus I will be wearing a monitor. So far, I found out the bunch of nerves on the right side of my heart have failed, shorted out.

My heart behaved itself until after the doctor left the room. Now, it has been acting up the rest of the afternoon and evening.

Volunteer, Shoe Save, Lunch, Mammogram

A yellow volunteer tulip is growing right in the middle of my backyard. It was such a surprise. In the front yard are more plants like it but without a bloom. I wonder if they are tulips, too. Wednesday, I will investigate. They do not have regular tulip leaves, but there is no doubt the flower is a tulip. One day, a black tulip volunteered here.

Two more pair of shoes are going to get the Shoe Goo treatment. One is a pair of sandals that the whole side has been ripped from the sole. This will be a true test. It may not look very good. If not, they will be what I wear everyday in the yard.

The other pair is my favorite shoe ever. When I heard this model of Clark's, a Mary Jane, was being discontinued, I bought all I could find here, and ordered them from a store below Montgomery. I think I bought eight pair. I put them all up and got out a new pair about every two years. The sole came apart from the uppers everywhere but the heel area in one white pair.

I had another pair of the same style, black, that I could wear. However, I could only find one of those shoes. In a stroke of luck, the right shoe of the white pair was still intact. AND, the left black shoe was not lost. In the yard and around the house, I wore a perfectly good pair of mismatched shoes. If I can get the sole matched with the upper, I will have two more good pairs of shoes for the yard/ rain/mud/chicken yard.

We went to lunch at a church today: ham; sweet potato baked in foil;  mixed vegetables--corn, peas, green beans; buttered slice of bread; two cookies; unsweetened tea. Lunch was good; company and conversation was spectacular. We sat and talked with another couple and new friend.

Around 18 months ago, I took 13 pieces of Tupperware that had split, some lids, some bowls, and the woman now no longer sells Tupperware. So, I think I lost all the pieces. She says she told me to come get it. I don't remember that.

We drove 15 miles round trip to get 100% gasoline for my lawnmower.

I had a 3D mammogram later. It really hurt me. That is the first time for pain. More later. I am tired!

Exbf took his go plate home for his dinner. I gave him my sweet potato and mixed vegetables. I just now ate my ham and bread. Apple and leaf lettuce salad are next for me.

To save buying a new pair of shoes, would you wear one black shoe and one white shoe in the yard and chicken yard?  Remember, I knew I could mend the white shoe I was wearing, and I knew I would find the other black shoe. And, they are the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn.

Tuesday

On Monday, I went to the doctor, knowing the uti was back or just much worse. The ER doctor only gave me 5 days of med. This never works for me. I have 14 days worth now.

Today is lunch at a church, so maybe I can drag myself there. It's only three blocks, so I can make it.

Even with the rain today, the weather is beautiful. This line of rainstorms was less than predicted. That makes me happy.

I forgot to say, but on New Years Day, I had a daffodil that was about three inches tall. And, it has a bud trying to open. These are going to be the shortest daffodils ever. Tulips are about six inches tall. Flowers growing in my yard makes me very happy, too.

Exbf told me it going to be near 60 degrees F this week.

After all the hard freezing we had, down to 2 degrees F, I found my seeds where they had been in the car in a metal container. I have no idea why they were in a box in the car. They experienced freezing weather for about a week. Now, I wonder if they are okay. What do you think?

Your turn
Do you have anything flowering or trying to flower?

What Did People Do Before Tupperware?

Jackiesue posed this question when I complained that my Tupperware had not been returned. So, let's explore this question--What did people use/do before Tupperware.

I do know when I was younger, a child and beyond,  my mother never stored anything in any plastic. She put things in bowls and on plates to store in the refrigerator. So, horror of horrors, she did not put an airtight lid on the food to keep it fresh. For years he put on a little thing like a shower cap complete with the elastic around the edge to hold it onto the bowl. It was not airtight. It was not water tight. But, nothing lingered in her refrigerator like it does in mine and most other people's refrigerators.

The storage item I remember most is waxed paper. This was put over food and sort of folded under around the plate or bowl,  certainly even less secure than the shower cap arrangement. We carried sandwiches to school wrapped in waxed paper. There was no plastic wrap or Tupperware to secure our sandwiches. We were very careful getting our sandwiches out of the paper bag for lunch. I never spilled the sandwich or fillings from the waxed paper wrappings. I learned to be careful, even at the early age of seven. Before that, I don't remember lunch at school.

Some serving dishes dishes came with a matching lid that just set loosely on the top. We did not have many of those. But, there was no need for the shower cap or waxed paper. The dishes with lids that I remember were pottery or ironstone. Mama also put huge pots with their lids in the refrigerator on occasion. I am quite sure odors could escape from dishes and merge with other dishes.

Then, sometimes she turned a plate or saucer over a bowl as a lid. You can imagine how secure that method was--not at all. I suppose, depending on the bowl and plate, it might have worked a bit. This had to be removed from the refrigerator carefully so that the bowl did not slip from under your thumb.

I remember seeing tea towels over things in the refrigerator, but I have no idea what she covered with them. We called dish towels "tea towels" back then.

All these methods were very insecure. Nothing was sealed. Everything could evaporate, spill, or dry out. Since there were no margarine tubs, we did not even have those fairly secure lidded items. We did have cottage cheese, but I have no memory of her using those, although she may have.

When we got a freezer when I was about fourteen, she did buy the square plastic freezer containers. they had  lids which were not air tight as the labels would have you believe. When she needed more freezer containers, there were no Ziplock freezer bags with a sealable zipper that turned a different color when sealed. At least we did not have them. I wonder when those were common. Mama washed out bread bags for weeks in the summer and dried those. She would double the bags in order to get a better barrier and possibly secure against leaks. In these she only put green beans and not anything with liquid like peaches.

Other than the freezer containers, I don't know if there were other options like freezer bags. Were there? I do know she filled an upright freezer in the late 50s and early 60s.

One summer when Daddy worked at the capitol in Jackson, MS, she took him to work everyday, brought him lunch, and picked him up. One day, she brought him spaghetti, toast, and iced tea for lunch. She brought the spaghetti and the tea in quart jars. These had the advantage of having lids and bands to avoid spillage. She wrapped the jars separately in towels and put them in their own paper bag. He poured the piping hot spaghetti onto a plate and drank from the quart jar.

The effect of all this was the guys working with him wanting the same lunch. They raved to Daddy after she left. Mama brought spaghetti for all. They insisted on giving her money. Well, from then on, she catered lunch with what would be dinner items, especially for men who ate from a paper bag. She brought dishes from home for everyone. She said she hated to take their money, but we could not afford to feed men lunch with generous portions of meat and lots of vegetables every day.

I have two of the lunch plates with the plastic lid and inner waterproof vent for microwaving. I paid dearly for one and bought the other for a dollar or two at a yard sale. They have paid for themselves many times over with lunch savings. I let exbf have them for lunches I packed him, warning him not to microwave for too long. When one came back all funny looking in the bottom of one section, I quit giving them to him. And, I yelled at him. He microwaves them for five minutes when two minutes would do!

However, I put his baked potato in a pint jar this last week and put carrots in another. I give him food in pickle relish jars and jelly jars, telling him I do not need them back. He returns every last jar! ugh Often, I put food in a storage or sandwich bag to send home with him.

Because glass is so dangerous, I do remember Mama had a solution that was not Tupperware--aluminum. Yes, good old safe aluminum for the children. There were four different colors that worked well for the four children. I remember being sad when we did not have those. I don't know what happened to them. We went back to glasses.

I gave my children Tupperware glasses when they did not drink from a small glass or a coffee cup. I did have one sippy cup that all three of my children used. I bought a set of tiny Tupperware glasses in 1968. They were just the right size for a baby hand. Later, I did buy a set of avocado green plastic tumblers that I still have. I need to get rid of those. They were short and had a bit larger diameter. But, they had no lid and were not Tupperware.

As soon as I married, I was invited to Tupperware parties. I introduced my mother to Tupperware by buying some for her. The first thing I got her was a straight-sided tall container with a lid and the spout. She made orange juice in it. I have a recipe from her that says, "one Tupperware container of powdered milk." It must have been for rice pudding or something milk-heavy since that container held over a quart if I remember correctly.

I never went for the serving items from T. I mostly have the cereal bowls, snack containers, and drinking items with lids. Of course, everything from Tupperware has tight lids or seals as they call them. Well, I did buy two serving items under pressure. I certainly never used them for company. There were little separate bowls I used in the refrigerator. The Jello mold was a mistake, since I may have used it twice. However, it worked as a bowl for whatever, but not on the table.

One of the first T items I bought was the set of snack containers. I used these to carry my lunch to work. It was years later before I bought the cereal bowls. Well, that is what I use the bowls for and for storing leftovers.

Now, I use pint or quart  jars, Tupperware cereal bowls, foil, waxed paper, and Glad Wrap. I suppose I use glass mostly. I never buy T anymore. Maybe once every ten years I do buy T. But, it is always something small, although not inexpensive.

I love the spaghetti holder! However, at around $10 each, I will not be purchasing more of those.

I do believe T is safe. I am not going to rant against T or encourage anyone to buy it.

Your turn
Now, don't hold back. What did you do before Tupperware? What did your mother's generation use?What do you use now? I know I will get tirades against the dangers of plastic. That's okay! But, don't let that deter you if you use T without fear like I do. I have to say that even though I am not heavily into buying Tupperware, I DO LOVE TUPPERWARE. What are your opinions or predilections?

Two Days in a Row!

I awoke too early with too little sleep, but I felt great! It has been so long since I felt so well that I am reveling in the feeling.

Exbf came today. Since he has such a difficult time getting up and down the steps and has to walk with a cane, I try to make it easier for him. Instead of him coming in and then waiting for me to get ready, I get ready and he calls me when he arrives.

Today, we made a stop to pick up some documentation. The person to give it to at the next stop was not there, so I have to go back Friday. Walmart was a stop for milk. My doctor was not in today. Hopefully, every bit of the uti is gone. I canceled my appoint with eye doctor. When we went by the sewing shop, it will be closed for two weeks. My scissors need sharpening! I was busy busy busy not getting much done. We just got home earlier.

I had to lie down before I made lunch. So, I worked then, too. I made appointments while resting my back. Tomorrow, I will tell you how I am lowering my communications costs while lying down today.

Lunch was chicken on a bun with salad greens. I forgot the tomatoes. Then, he took a nap. I had to sit up, so that made my back hurt. I forgot to give him grapes! When I am in blinding pain, forgetting happens.

Dinner was easy peasy. I lined a casserole with foil, sliced zucchini and yellow squash, poured on olive oil, and ground herbs over that. I forgot the onion and garlic, but I was hurting so much. The grape tomatoes from lunch could have gone in, too. I put the casserole in the oven while it was preheating to 400 degrees. Then, I turned on the broiler for a few minutes and sliced chicken into the casserole of veggies. On the top when it was on his plate, I sprinkled some Parmesan cheese on top. He said next time I could leave that off. This was the first time these things had been cooked together.

When I wad up the foil, the dishes will be done. Hey, that is a good feeling, knowing there are no pots and pans to wash.

I forgot to put the already-cooked carrots in the casserole. Still, he enjoyed it and took the tomatoes and carrots home.

Today, I was still hurting from yesterday's activities as I did not get enough sleep last night. My joints, skin, muscles, and flesh hurts. He rubbed my back and arms. It is like a miracle how the pain subsides.

At 6:30 pm, my body feels better than it did this morning. That's a good way to end the day. And, for the second day in a row--I do not feel ill! The day was mild and beautiful. Still, I needed the ac last night and today.

Your turn
Do you have fibromyalgia and PAIN? Or back pain? Who has a repertoire of one-dish meals that are so easy? What is your favorite one-dish meal? I would prefer spaghetti. Do still use the ac here at the end of October?

Today Was A Good Day; Today Was A Bad Day!

Today, Tuesday, was the first day I washed my hair and went out.  On Monday, I awoke for the first time since about the fifth of September and felt well. I piddled and went to WM for milk with ratty hair. It was not so dirty, combed, but had been so badly tangled I think I must have pulled half the hair off the back of my head. I need a satin pillowcase.

The Tuesday lunch was today. I could not eat the meatloaf (mammal meat) and did not like pinto beans. I gave away the cornbread to a ninety-two-year-old woman who thought mine looked better than hers. I did eat the mixed greens and chocolate cake and three glasses of unsweetened iced tea.  Dominique ate only part of what I gave her. But, she did give me an egg for which I thanked her.

As I stepped outside the church fellowship hall, the guy leaving at the same time told me to look up. The sky was the clearest blue ever, not murky or even a cloud in the sky--not even a little fluffy cloud.  From the heat in the car, I think it was in the high 80s today....just perfect.  At 6:30 pm it was 80 degrees, 38 days with no rain, humidity at 50%.

Two hours is all it took me to get my internet bill straightened out at the bank and at the corporate ATT. That exhausted me. I spent $5 at KFC getting the Tuesday Special and another meal of leftovers for Dominique. I asked a fellow diner if I could have her leftovers. She gladly gave them to me, saying her cat was picky and would not eat KFC.

Since I awoke too early with a nightmare, I feel a nap coming on and hurt all over. I sat up too long today.

There is a raccoon just waiting to be trapped.

Your turn
Did you have blue skies today? Pain?  Don't you love the first day you can get out after an illness that keeps you bed bound many days? Do you wear yourself out like I did?

Tuesday Lunch

Tuesday, I went to the Tuesday lunch. I didn't get enough sleep but got ready and went there without having had my usual glass of milk and banana. I may be out of bananas, but I thought I had two.

Usually, I go early so I can get a close parking place. That leaves me sitting at a table full of desserts, one at each place. Everyone who comes there goes around and swaps out desserts to get their favorite. My motto: "Life is short; eat dessert first." I usually do! The chocolate cake was calling my name, but today I ignored it. Through the wait, I also ignored the headache and had a glass of water.

When I heard what was for lunch, I was happy, but I should not have eaten one bite. The chicken nuggets were breaded; the green beans had ham in them; squash casserole had cheese; roll looked delicious. I ate the chicken nuggets and tried to scrape off the breading. I left the ham on the plate. There was no cheese on my portion of the squash casserole! I mindlessly ate the miniscule roll. There was one bite left when I realized I was eating it. There was one thick, glorious slice of tomato... yum.

A guy asked me how many hens I had now and how many eggs I got. Dominique is not laying again. I told him she was going to freezer camp. The whole table roared and repeated it to each other.

Dominique was so happy with the leftovers from several plates.

I finally picked several grape leaves, one for the pickles I made. I think I will make pickles for the Fair. I need to look to see if there are any grapes on the vines sprawled all over. A handful of scuppernongs would be great.

A young man with brain damage finally talked to me today after I frightened him several months ago. I had pie at my place and was standing, talking. He had the saucer and was removing it to take to his table. I did not realize he had brain damage and said, "EH, EH, EH. Put it down! It's mine." I was only kidding by sounding so harsh, so my faux pas embarrassed me when he turned white and I realized he had a problem. Since then, I have made it a point to say, "Hello." Today, he approached me and made small talk. I guess he observed me for a few months and decided I was not too scary. We all protect our chosen dessert and tell people we chose that dessert, so go get their own.

I voted for mayor and city council today. When I went to the place where I always vote, half a block from my house, I was not on their roll. When I got to the courthouse where I am now assigned to vote, it was difficult for me to walk so far again. Usually, voting is joining the lines with a marker. Today, I had to bubble in with a pen. Done! And, I proudly wear the "I Voted" sticker.

Even though I went to two polling locations and to lunch, I was never more than four blocks from my house.

Even though I can vote by absentee ballot, there is something about going to the polls that I would miss. Granted, I have never had more than ten people in front of me. If I had to wait in the lines I sometimes see on TV, I would be voting by absentee ballot.

I am going to call my gastroenterologist because my intestines are not right yet. I spent a long time in the bathroom after lunch, the kind of session that leaves a person weak. A nap was in order even though I had plans to go back out and get chores done in town. Needless to say, I was hungry once again before I lay down.

Tomorrow, I have so many things to do that I need to make a list. Most of the chores are here at home and some are phone calls.

Since I ate lunch, my ear hurts a bit, and I am itching. So, I ate something I should not...sigh.

Your turn
Did anyone else vote today? Do you vote by absentee ballot? Do you like the experience of going to vote?