What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from. ~~ TS Eliot
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
the more things change. . . .
121 comments:
Shirlee in NC
said...
Thanks, Puddle--just the time to report a new baby girl in our family. Grandpa with the camera posted a picture and the news late this afternoon--she was just an hour or two old. Everyone doing fine. No name passed along yet. I think they are celebrating. Marla had said they bought steaks, wine, and chocolate to celebrate with. Happy day in StuMur Land! StuMur is our family website name. Stu is for my young'uns father's name Studt. Mur is for my family name. Easy to remember for all!
Krista has had breating tube removed, her BP is spiking when they move her at all but goes right back down. hopefully we will know in a day or two if the swelling caused any damage. her recoup time has now about tripled, she had a piece of skull removed to reduce swelling and that will be like that for weeks and then another surgery to relpace the plate in her skull and a few weeks in the hospital. if all goes well.
Gave Nancy her hat today, and she really liked it, and looked terrific in it. She showed me her newly shaved head, and I thought how many times I've seen that head--and all but one has made it! She goes in for chemo #2 tomorrow.
Jo... That's hard news, but so far really good news. Fixable problems are our favourite kind, eh? Are the boys *able* to see Mom, or disallowed? How are they holding up? How's D doing? How are YOU?!
Hugs to Jo and Krista, glad Nancy loves her hat, and yep Grands are grand--except still haven't heard a name. Marla said they were waiting until today to "confirm." Not sure what she meant. She is such a healthy, beautiful baby.
Spent part of the afternoon at the dermo's office getting pre-cancerous spots zapped off before they turn dangerous. Get 'me, before they get me is my motto!
On Monday, we drove to Estes Park. On the way there on the Peak to Peak Highway, black ice, snow, a cold wind. We pulled over to the side and waited for the sheriff to halt traffic into a one lane. It took about 45 minutes and there must have been a mile of cars behind us. The road was so slippery, we couldn't even walk on it.
But, we did get to Estes Park. A doctor's appointment, some shopping, the pharmacy, but it was Columbus Day so our goal of getting a post office box was postponed. Rather than travel back to Johnstown we took a motel and on Tuesday were able to get a post office box.
On Sunday we will return home, but we'll only be able to get out on Sunday's from noon to 5 pm.
Thoughts your way, Jo, a prayer for Krista, and may you mother always be in peace. Shirlee, congratulations.
Another post. We have been working in the Storm Mountain community to pass a policy called a PID. This would put the county in charge of collecting funds for our roads, for issuing contracts for construction and repair, and generally giving us more resources for our dangerous roads.
As you might expect, the "no more taxes" folks are nay saying. So, because Howard Dean still is in our hearts and his words and actions resonate, this is what I wrote on our Storm Mountain Yahoo network. I thought you might enjoy it.
I want to weigh in on the safety issue. When vehicular travel is from 600 to 700 trips daily, when we have the ongoing possibility of rock slides, erosion, and damaged roads, and we need guard rails that the Forest Service has been reluctant to provide, I think the expertise of the county's engineering staff will benefit us greatly. Further, with a relationship with the county, we may have more leverage when dealing with the Forest Service.
Frankly, a few hundred dollars a year for the additional safety measures seems to me wise. With the mindset of no more taxes, we risk being penny wise and pound foolish. I'm grateful for FEMA, the State of Colorado and the National Guard in repairing our roads, for 911 that gets us emergency services, and for our volunteer fire department. All provide us with protections we need as a community and as individuals. With the PID, we have the opportunity for greater resources with respect to monies available to us, greater fairness in taking responsibility for our roads and a stronger relationship within our community and with the country.
Nothing is perfect, but as a community of responsible citizens we can work towards a consensus in the need to improve our roads and the protection of people. I recall a comment in the ongoing political campaigns, "Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good." A no vote on the PID is a vote for the status quo, which is inadequate by even county standards. Improvement can be incremental, and we can all be more knowledgeable about what needs to be done and participate in the doing. A yes vote is a beginning.
Wonderful letter, Pat. It was an eye opener for me. I guess I have always lived where the county was part of keeping at least some of the roads in good repair.
I am so happy you may be able to go home sooner than first expected. Glad to know you will soon have your 'poet box.'
Our new baby girl is Gianna Avila Williams 7pounds 8 ounces. She joins her sister Castilla - known to us as Cassie!
Pat, that's beautifully and wisely written, and I wouldn't have expected anything less of you; but it's always so refreshing to read what you have to offer, especially at a time like this. I do hope it inspires people to vote for the extra safety measures! ♥
Splendid missive, Pat! Worthy of a Deaniac! We did get a lot of practice, eh?
On the way to town Monday with Cooter, I was struck again by how the roads/signage has improved in the last 19 years. A lot of what was dirt and unsigned now has stripes down asphalt and wonderfully informative signs. When I first came, I always gave myself an extra hour to get lost, lol! Always a lot of road work in election years. . . .
As pleased as I am that the crisis has been averted, I'm still mad that Congress has us set up to go through it all again just after Christmas, not to mention the damage done now to growth, employment and interest rates.
Looks like our warmish brief period ends tonight, and we're back to the season.
The view from the front is mostly gold, but from the kitchen, still mostly green.
This is a gift Pat gave me:
Nothing Gold Can Stay by Robert Frost
Nature's first green is gold, Her hardest hue to hold. Her early leaf's a flower; But only so an hour. Then leaf subsides to leaf. So Eden sank to grief, So dawn goes down to day. Nothing gold can stay.
I didn't get to listen to the entire speech, but what I heard, I liked. Very strong and forceful. Of course the wing nuts didn't learn a thing. are very well looking forward to doing this again. Hopefully, the more reasonable will prevail. However, the very real threat of Koch brothers $$$$$ will probably let his go forward again. So looking forward to the next election.
And now we go home, just two more days two more nights then pick up all the things we've scattered that define us as we know we need.
We are changed now chastened, grateful knowing ourselves better than we ever wanted to, illusions recognized for what they are, the world bigger, more complicated and indifferent than we'd admitted.
But home will still be good, another resting place, not forever as nothing human is, maybe more appreciated.
We grown up once again as we have periodically now and then.
Ah, I see. Well, I guess Sheriff Puff is our new Sheriff Chuck. puddle doesn't merely have a Sheriff, she has a Sheriff Chuck! :-)
We heard today that the mountains here could get a little snow this weekend. There has been NONE so far, and this is fairly late for our first mountaintop snow. Snow usually begins to remain, in the valley, about a month later.
Painted our downstairs hallway over the last few days and now I'm super sleepy! Sweet dreams, all! ♥
I remember as a child: our two most reliable prayers were that it wouldn't snow before Halloween (so we wouldn't have to wear our coats over our costumes) and the it would have finished before Easter (so they could hide the eggs outside).
Listener, I thought that was a little ambiguous when I wrote it, sorry. Could refer to my recent visit to the ear, nose throat doc who keeps the cancer on my tongue under control. Not to panic, have been dealing with this since the late 1990's. It is likely the result of the heavy duty RA medsi I need to take to keep it under control. I Must take them or I have extreme and debilitating flare-ups. RA hit me-like a ton of bricks in 1987. At that time there was not much but aspirin, gold shots, or prednisone none of them did anything but relieve me for a few hours and have their own major problems. I am grateful for these new meds.
Puddle, in Michigan my daughters always were hoping for a late Easter and no snow so they could wear their Easter dresses. As for hiding eggs outside--no matter the weather this Easter Bunny was not going to do that!
Great news! All of Krista's tubes and equipment are off, she is speaking and moving pretty well, no pain meds!!! No visitors except Derek for the day, he is so thrilled. thank you all again for your love and prayers.
Mom's memorial and graveside service were lovely, she would have loved it all, lots of friends and family, hundreds of photos that were a remarkable story of her life and the love she gave and received, she had a special relationship with each one of us. I am exhausted in every way, today is a lazy day to reflect. I am so thankful that Krista is getting better! xoxoxo
Jo, I'm so glad Krista is doing well: those improvements are tremendous and a very good sign of more good to come.
Winding up for the left-behinders can be remarkable. Sounds like your mum had a good one, all around. No doubt that mourning takes a tremendous amount of energy. Peace. ♥
Jo, wonderful news about Krista, and your mom's memorial service and the love she gave and received. Thank you for letting us share in your joy and memories.
Off for dinner, then tomorrow the ride home and getting settled. Thank you dear friends for being with us on this journey. Love to you all.
Jo--what wonderful news about Krista. Thank you for keeping us posted. Your Mom's memorial service sounds lovely-- she was obviously much, much loved. And now take care of YOU!
Oh, that all sounds so wonderful!! What a huge relief and JOY that Krista is doing so well!! Sounds like that second surgery did the trick. I'll bet the relief is palpable!
How blessed you are to have had such a mother! I am delighted to hear that her service was so well attended and meaningful.
I can't think of anyone who more deserves a day of rest and reflection. =Make that a month!= So glad things have "got de turn."
thank you! Derek just called and they had a yogurt date at 6 am, Krista is just starting to learn what all has happened to her, is handling it well and is beginning to have some strength in her squeezes! <3
I am so proud of Derek, he has been juggling being there for Krista, being with his boys and dealing with Mom's passing. He has had a sad heart for days now but things are looking up and he has been there for everyone, he is bone tired but so thankful and happy for his sweetheaart and his sons, they are doing wonderfully well too.
It's been wonderful watching my kids take up the reins and become terrific parents and spouses. Jo, yours has surely gone above and beyond.
Looks like early winter is about to be upon us. Nights in the 30's, and 20's next week. Checking the sunset time the other night realized that sundown has retreated from seven to six thirty. The wooly worms looked to be about normal: small black band front and back, and wide rust in the middle. Sometime before I die want to see one with wide black bands and a narrow rust one. . . .
Ah, thanks for the explanation. I hope you see the warm weather version sometime and the influence spreads this bit further south. Cold weather makes things difficult for those of us down yonder!
Brenda brought a delicious new pasta dish and a supply of homemade granola bars for dinner for us today--with left-overs for the week.
I'm so happy for the upturn, Jo...right where it was most needed, too. ♥
We are expecting colder temps this week. It's okay. Amazingly we haven't had a killing frost here yet! We might have some snowflakes in the coming week. Now that would be worth something! :-)
Good news here. The maintenance man has orders to replace my old complicated thermostat with a new digital one TODAY. I have one that I think was probably installed in the late eighties when this old commercial building was turned into lovely apartments. My thermostat has gotten crankier and crankier--as have I in dealing with it:)! We don't have extremes of weather here, but we can have periods of damp, humid, funky weather that we need to adjust for.
Shirlee, did you get your frost last night? I think we must have--it was already below the predicted low of 36º when I went to bed. But some hard frosts coming later this week.
Hey hey hey! In addition to the last three seasons for The Waltons, I got:
"Upstairs Downstairs - The Complete Series Megaset"
Special Features
All 68 episodes on 20 DVDs, digitally remastered and presented in their original production order Includes shows not aired during the original broadcast Includes the hour-long retrospective Upstairs Downstairs Remembered: The 25th Anniversary Special
*THAT* ought to hold me for a couple of years, lol!
Wow, Puddle--happy watching!!! Big news at 216--maintenance man just installed a new digital thermostat for my ac/ heat pump system--whoopee! He thought the old one was probably at least 25 years old. He was also able to lower it--so I could reach it.
so much going on here! happy for the new little one Shirlee! and the new thermostat! so glad you are home Pat, that was fast, I thought it would be so much longer!
Still all good news on this end. Krista got her helmet yesterday so can get up and about a bit, do some PT, get rid of the catheter, etc. Derek says she has a sense of humor that he has never seen in her before, not at all depressed but making light of it all, taking it all in stride. Derek and boys are doing great, we’re all doing much better than last week. thank you again for your love and prayers!
Wow Jo, that is such great news. I'm so glad for you!
Too many meetings to go to here. Tonight, the guy for Medicare Advantage plans.
Tomorrow, a meeting about all the hospital mergers here in Washington. Seems the Catholic hospitals are eating up the secular ones. So we are going to the meeting to see what we can do about it.
Thursday, a meeting about the creek that our little neck of the woods is named after (Thornton Creek). It apparently has e.coli in it. So we need to find out what we can do about it.
Always something. Much love and many hugs to bloggie friends.
The worst thing about bloodwork is no coffee after midnight. The second worst thing is no sleep. (My alarm clock has such a tiny sound, I was afraid to take ma NyQuil.)
Oh, sorry about that Puddle but happy you had a lovely day. I really wish they would re-think the need for some tests that require a 12 hour fast at least for the over 65'ers. Whenever I have one of those it takes me 24-48 hours to re-cover.
New thermostat is just dandy! Went out for a walk this afternoon and actually came home to a warm apartment.
stop already with the childish, passive/agressive bullshit comments Judy.
no one here thinks that people who support OWS are the "no-good do-nothing OWS losers". well, except perhaps we might think that about YOU, who just can't resist coming here to piss all over this place. you have a serious problem. get help.
Endured a rant on facebook yesterday by a woman/friend the system as it stands has almost completely failed. She has a rare set of diseases, is losing her home and animals, is running daily auctions on personal belongings. The rant? Against her insurance company who's been denying her claims? Nope. Against government workers/government who NEVER DOES ANYTHING AT ALL RIGHT. . . .
Funny that: Obama kept his reelection campaign software in-house, and it was top of the game--miles ahead of Mitt's contractor-riddled failure.
We also know that in-house SS admin costs one or two percent as compared to the Republican dream of private retirement which is estimated to cost 10 or 12 percent to administer (assuming the stock market doesn't kill it in other ways. . . .).
hi ladies! a quick pop in to update you on Krista. she is doing great! she now has her helmet so has started PT, her sons are visiting her for the first time today and she may be leaving the ICU for a private room on Sunday! Derek says that her attitude is awesome. he is very thankful for all of your prayers. me too! <3
On a political note: I do believe some callers from DNC for fund-raising need more training or their guidelines re-written. I have had two calls one this summer and one just now. Both thanked me for my monthly support--which I know is small--then they go on to describe the problems we are having and could I give $225 right now? When I say No, but, and intending to add "maybe a smaller amount" they immediately hang up! No way to win friends! OFA --President Obama's old group is more sensible. They start by asking for MUCH less and when I offered even less than that the person calling was pleasant and grateful.
I have never liked the DNC tactics - other than when Howard was in charge! when I have money to donate I tendd to locate someone who I want to support and then go through aactblue.
Krista and the boys had a wonderful visit! the oldest was relieved that his Mom looked much better than he expected she would - he has I am sure picked up on the seriousness of this and the imagination can be mush worse than reality, although this was a pretty bad situation any way that you look at it. they have now determnined that she will probably move from ICU on Friday. yay!
Ally had scans today, but her doctor wasn't able to be there to read them as usually happens. Not sure whether we'll hear tonight or tomorrow. Prayers cherished, especially for Ally's Mom who does not like the tension of waiting.
Good wishes for Krista and family and Ally. Was she in he video. Listener? I thought I spotted a little blonde who resembled the photos that turned up on Puddle's blog.
funny that you think we're all psychic and would know - without quotations or any other indication - that this was a quote and not something that you wrote - it soundes so much like you. but that doesn't matter because I don't click links from you and I never will. so kiss my ass Judy, you know that you are no longer welcome here so bugger off.
it's pretty simple Judy - if you don't want to be 'abused' don't bother people who don't like you.
since you keep popping in here just what are you looking for? you certainly don't expect us to forget who you really are, to give you another chance at playing nice, you who were the queen of name-calling, passive/agressive meanness on the old blog. you who personally threatened our friend. nope, doesn't matter how much water goes under this bridge, we gave you mulitple chances here to be a part of this group but you just couldn't stop being you so just to be clear YOU ARE NO LONGER WELCOME HERE JUDY FOR ANY REASON.
Jo, Krista is doing marvelously. And quick! Am really happy for you all. I had a neighbor who had a really massive brain aneurism a few years ago--today, no way one would ever know.
sea, you really do need to find something else to do beside hanging around here. The chemistry clearly is wrong for both sides. Why don't you learn to let it be? Peace.
We got a good hard freeze last night. Still only 34º and snow predicted for today and tomorrow. Nancy was out walking yesterday afternoon, and it was snowing up there! I haven't seen any. Yet.
sooo happy for ALly and family! what a long road this has been for you all. <3
Shirlee and puddle what the hell is up with that? it's in the 40s here so far north of you and no snow in the near future that we can see other than maybe a dusting in the highest elevations!
Who knows? This week's daytime temps have been in the fifties. Next week in the sixties. Have a couple of up and down the street errands for next week, so hope the forecast holds.
Coming up --freeze watch 27 to 32 degrees from Friday evening to Saturday morning--all of central North Carolina.
Puddle has mountains, we have hills--maybe makes a difference? I have a stash of books that are waiting to be read--week-end coming up. Perfect timing!
ouch puddle! it's 43 here with a light wind and it feels COLD!
I just moived my bed, I have it over the heat register during spring and summer then move it so that the heat can circulate better in the winter. that means that I also get the dust bunnies out of the corners, fresh sheets and blankets a new start, I like a change-up now and then!
no snow in Burl but the mountains are covered with a few inches.
Krista got out of ICU today and will move to the rehab facility tomorrow morning - it's a part of the hospital but a few miles away. my good friend who had a stroke a few years ago rehabbed there and I went to a few of her sessions - the facility is great and they are wonderful there! they expect she will be going home in a week or so. This facility has free parking and shorter walks to visit so this will be good for her visitors!
Well, home again. It's like sitting and talking to an old friend: at first so much excitement, little concentration, but with some rest, with some time, home invites us in.
My watch broke, a raven flew over the deck, and I wondered about time and how much we are part of it, coming going, learning, being, loving.
Jo, I'm so glad Krista is recovering. What a blessing!
Beautiful days here. We received propane two days ago, the electricity, phone, internet, water is all on. We missed leaf peeping this year, and the aspens are past their peak, but the days that azure blue, cloudless, warm, as if they will just go on and on.
Many people have lost homes, jobs, and the rivers have reshaped the land. Where there were roads and forest, now estuary. Rivers expanded several times their size.
But, home and an awareness of the miracle of being alive, of breathing, thinking, caring, imagining.
28 degrees at 8:00 AM in GSO --but I am sure it is great weather for the Greensboro Marathon races today. Set up, start and finish lines just outside my building. Greensboro is a wonderful town for racers of all ages it seems. Helps to have a 50,000 university student population. Plenty of racers of all ages up to 60.
Phone lines on the fritz all evening last night. Twas 22º before bedtime. But no real snow. And heading into a warmer week, whew.
Pat, how lovely to be home!! Let it love and heal you.
Shirlee, enjoy your runners!
Having spent the whole year with The Waltons, I truly had a most difficult time understanding even half the talk on the first disc of Upstairs Downstairs, lol! The Waltons' accents consisting of Hollywood's concept of a Western Virginia accent (sounding more to me like deep Georgia backwoods, maybe), and then being plunged into various shades of cockney, Lol! I know from experience that I'll get it, but clearly no switching back and forth. And no closed captions, either, alas.
Pat, so glad you're home and enjoying the home and the land and sky.
Halloween party for us tonight. haven't been to one in years. Still have the witches hat I made yrs ago. Just your basic black cheapo hat, but I have a spray of long (over 2 feet) of narrow grass that was dyed purple that I've pinned to the brim and wrapped around the crown. looks just spectacular and changes the "witch" look.
Runners finished about 3:00, everyone and everything cleared away. Winners in the several categories, but the nicest was that a husband and wife each won in their respective categories. I am not really a sports fan, but the number and variety and purpose of the GSO races intrigues me.
Barb that seems to be a very classy witches hat you have created! Have fun at your party.
Thank you for your good wishes. I've enjoyed reading the posts.
Today a beautiful day, went walking with Molly Magee, collected seeds from rabbit brush, milkweed, and wild rose hips. The grasses are gold, copper, and russet. I wondered why the leaves are most beautiful in their maturity. Maybe we are too with the experience of living.
Tonight we'll watch Cloud Atlas on TV, an interesting science fiction tale that is complex enough to need another viewing.
Life is good no matter what comes our way. We have the strength and trust that we go on.
121 comments:
Thanks, Puddle--just the time to report a new baby girl in our family. Grandpa with the camera posted a picture and the news late this afternoon--she was just an hour or two old. Everyone doing fine. No name passed along yet.
I think they are celebrating. Marla had said they bought steaks, wine, and chocolate to celebrate with. Happy day in StuMur Land! StuMur is our family website name. Stu is for my young'uns father's name Studt. Mur is for my family name. Easy to remember for all!
Just clicked on the graphic with the three buttons. A few die-hard "I Got Mine, You Get Yours" over there, also!
💝 💝 Sweet Congratulations, Grammie Shirlee! 💝 💝
Howard Dean is sharing Firsties tonight with Baby Girl StuMur, Jo's Mom, Krista and all who love them!!! 💛
Aw, those cute pink hearts with yellow bows show up as boring old squares on my iPhone.
Ah, thank you, Listener. I am passing this along to the parents and grandparents. She is a cutie.
Can't wait to hear her name. :-)
(¯`v´¯)
`*.¸.*´
¸.•´¸.•*¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•´ .•´¸¸.•¨¯`•.
Holding Krista & Jo & Family in the Light ((( ♥)))
♡♡ Baby Girl StuMur ♡♡
Krista has had breating tube removed, her BP is spiking when they move her at all but goes right back down. hopefully we will know in a day or two if the swelling caused any damage. her recoup time has now about tripled, she had a piece of skull removed to reduce swelling and that will be like that for weeks and then another surgery to relpace the plate in her skull and a few weeks in the hospital. if all goes well.
Healing Vibes to Krista, Listener. And Congrats to Shirlee!
Shirlee, aren't grands grand?
Jo, love and light to you and Krista.
Gave Nancy her hat today, and she really liked it, and looked terrific in it. She showed me her newly shaved head, and I thought how many times I've seen that head--and all but one has made it! She goes in for chemo #2 tomorrow.
Jo...
That's hard news, but so far really good news. Fixable problems are our favourite kind, eh? Are the boys *able* to see Mom, or disallowed? How are they holding up? How's D doing? How are YOU?!
And if it's too much to respond to just now, just leave those as rhetorical questions. We'll catch up when the time is right.
Pat ... ♥
Hugs to Jo and Krista, glad Nancy loves her hat, and yep Grands are grand--except still haven't heard a name. Marla said they were waiting until today to "confirm." Not sure what she meant. She is such a healthy, beautiful baby.
Spent part of the afternoon at the dermo's office getting pre-cancerous spots zapped off before they turn dangerous.
Get 'me, before they get me is my motto!
Hi friends,
On Monday, we drove to Estes Park. On the way there on the Peak to Peak Highway, black ice, snow, a cold wind. We pulled over to the side and waited for the sheriff to halt traffic into a one lane. It took about 45 minutes and there must have been a mile of cars behind us. The road was so slippery, we couldn't even walk on it.
But, we did get to Estes Park. A doctor's appointment, some shopping, the pharmacy, but it was Columbus Day so our goal of getting a post office box was postponed. Rather than travel back to Johnstown we took a motel and on Tuesday were able to get a post office box.
On Sunday we will return home, but we'll only be able to get out on Sunday's from noon to 5 pm.
Thoughts your way, Jo, a prayer for Krista, and may you mother always be in peace. Shirlee, congratulations.
Another post. We have been working in the Storm Mountain community to pass a policy called a PID. This would put the county in charge of collecting funds for our roads, for issuing contracts for construction and repair, and generally giving us more resources for our dangerous roads.
As you might expect, the "no more taxes" folks are nay saying. So, because Howard Dean still is in our hearts and his words and actions resonate, this is what I wrote on our Storm Mountain Yahoo network. I thought you might enjoy it.
I want to weigh in on the safety issue. When vehicular travel is from
600 to 700 trips daily, when we have the ongoing possibility of rock
slides, erosion, and damaged roads, and we need guard rails that the
Forest Service has been reluctant to provide, I think the expertise of
the county's engineering staff will benefit us greatly. Further, with a
relationship with the county, we may have more leverage when dealing
with the Forest Service.
Frankly, a few hundred dollars a year for the additional safety measures
seems to me wise. With the mindset of no more taxes, we risk being
penny wise and pound foolish. I'm grateful for FEMA, the State of
Colorado and the National Guard in repairing our roads, for 911 that
gets us emergency services, and for our volunteer fire department. All
provide us with protections we need as a community and as individuals.
With the PID, we have the opportunity for greater resources with respect
to monies available to us, greater fairness in taking responsibility for
our roads and a stronger relationship within our community and with the
country.
Nothing is perfect, but as a community of responsible citizens we can
work towards a consensus in the need to improve our roads and the
protection of people. I recall a comment in the ongoing political
campaigns, "Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good." A no vote
on the PID is a vote for the status quo, which is inadequate by even
county standards. Improvement can be incremental, and we can all be
more knowledgeable about what needs to be done and participate in the
doing. A yes vote is a beginning.
Wonderful letter, Pat. It was an eye opener for me. I guess I have always lived where the county was part of keeping at least some of the roads in good repair.
I am so happy you may be able to go home sooner than first expected. Glad to know you will soon have your 'poet box.'
Our new baby girl is Gianna Avila Williams 7pounds 8 ounces. She joins her sister Castilla - known to us as Cassie!
Pat, that's beautifully and wisely written, and I wouldn't have expected anything less of you; but it's always so refreshing to read what you have to offer, especially at a time like this. I do hope it inspires people to vote for the extra safety measures! ♥
Splendid missive, Pat! Worthy of a Deaniac! We did get a lot of practice, eh?
On the way to town Monday with Cooter, I was struck again by how the roads/signage has improved in the last 19 years. A lot of what was dirt and unsigned now has stripes down asphalt and wonderfully informative signs. When I first came, I always gave myself an extra hour to get lost, lol! Always a lot of road work in election years. . . .
Lovely name for a lovely baby, Shirlee!
Thanks, folks. Tired now, will head for the pull out bed on the counch.
: )
Hey, I posted a Baby note earlier, but I don't see it. Hmmm, let me try again...
♡•*¨*•.¸¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♡♡♡•*¨*•.¸¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♡
(\(\ Welcome to the Planet
(=':') ♡ Gianna Avila Williams ♡
(,(")(") Sister of Castilla
♡•*¨*•.¸¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♡♡♡•*¨*•.¸¸♥¸¸.•*¨*•♡
It's on the President's desk, hurrah, hurrah!
As pleased as I am that the crisis has been averted, I'm still mad that Congress has us set up to go through it all again just after Christmas, not to mention the damage done now to growth, employment and interest rates.
Thanks for the good wishes for the new baby--will pass them along to Marla--she will love them.
We can add stress of all kinds to the problems which we will need to face again. Thanks, Listener for the list.
Looks like our warmish brief period ends tonight, and we're back to the season.
The view from the front is mostly gold, but from the kitchen, still mostly green.
This is a gift Pat gave me:
Nothing Gold Can Stay
by Robert Frost
Nature's first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf's a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.
Isn't Robert Frost wonderful. Lovely. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Wonderful speech by our President today! Now on YouTube. Love to all!
Phone line having problems. May disappear. Don't send for Sheriff Chuck.
Ah, puddle, Sheriff Chuck retired. We'd have to call for Sheriff Puff (and by the way I really do have his phone number in my iPhone!).
But, we need to keep Sheriff Chuck around here--just for old times sake. He is part of our heritage!
I didn't get to listen to the entire speech, but what I heard, I liked. Very strong and forceful. Of course the wing nuts didn't learn a thing. are very well looking forward to doing this again. Hopefully, the more reasonable will prevail. However, the very real threat of Koch brothers $$$$$ will probably let his go forward again. So looking forward to the next election.
Yes, Sheriff Chuck is part of our heritage!
love and hugs to my bloggie friends.
Hi friends,
A quick poem for you.
Soon Home
And now we go home,
just two more days
two more nights
then pick up all the things
we've scattered
that define us
as we know we need.
We are changed now
chastened, grateful
knowing ourselves
better than we ever
wanted to, illusions
recognized for what
they are, the world
bigger, more complicated
and indifferent
than we'd admitted.
But home will
still be good, another
resting place, not
forever as nothing
human is, maybe
more appreciated.
We grown up
once again as we
have periodically
now and then.
should be we've grown up.
snow today, but warming. Maybe Sunday will be just fine for our return.
Lovely, comforting poetry, Pat. Thank You. Whatever else and no matter what changes have been/must be made homecoming is also joyful!
Coming home especially after an involuntary displacement is *heaven*. . . .
Agree, agree Puddle--even after a good news visit to a Doc.
Good Night, All.
Excellent poem, Pat.
I'm still growing up too.
Hope I always will. :-)
Shirlee, did I miss something? Who had a good news visit to a doc? Glad it was good news!!
Ah, I see. Well, I guess Sheriff Puff is our new Sheriff Chuck. puddle doesn't merely have a Sheriff, she has a Sheriff Chuck! :-)
We heard today that the mountains here could get a little snow this weekend.
There has been NONE so far, and this is fairly late for our first mountaintop snow. Snow usually begins to remain, in the valley, about a month later.
Painted our downstairs hallway over the last few days and now I'm super sleepy! Sweet dreams, all! ♥
I remember as a child: our two most reliable prayers were that it wouldn't snow before Halloween (so we wouldn't have to wear our coats over our costumes) and the it would have finished before Easter (so they could hide the eggs outside).
Listener, I thought that was a little ambiguous when I wrote it, sorry. Could refer to my recent visit to the ear, nose throat doc who keeps the cancer on my tongue under control. Not to panic, have been dealing with this since the late 1990's. It is likely the result of the heavy duty RA medsi
I need to take to keep it under control. I Must take them or I have extreme and debilitating flare-ups. RA hit me-like a ton of bricks in 1987. At that time there was not much but aspirin, gold shots, or prednisone none of them did anything but relieve me for a few hours and have their own major problems. I am grateful for these new meds.
Puddle, in Michigan my daughters always were hoping for a late Easter and no snow so they could wear their Easter dresses. As for hiding eggs outside--no matter the weather this Easter Bunny was not going to do that!
Great news! All of Krista's tubes and equipment are off, she is speaking and moving pretty well, no pain meds!!! No visitors except Derek for the day, he is so thrilled. thank you all again for your love and prayers.
Mom's memorial and graveside service were lovely, she would have loved it all, lots of friends and family, hundreds of photos that were a remarkable story of her life and the love she gave and received, she had a special relationship with each one of us. I am exhausted in every way, today is a lazy day to reflect. I am so thankful that Krista is getting better! xoxoxo
Jo, I'm so glad Krista is doing well: those improvements are tremendous and a very good sign of more good to come.
Winding up for the left-behinders can be remarkable. Sounds like your mum had a good one, all around. No doubt that mourning takes a tremendous amount of energy. Peace. ♥
Hi,
Jo, wonderful news about Krista, and your mom's memorial service and the love she gave and received. Thank you for letting us share in your joy and memories.
Off for dinner, then tomorrow the ride home and getting settled. Thank you dear friends for being with us on this journey. Love to you all.
Jo--what wonderful news about Krista. Thank you for keeping us posted. Your Mom's memorial service sounds lovely-- she was obviously much, much loved. And now take care of YOU!
{{{ JO! }}}
Oh, that all sounds so wonderful!! What a huge relief and JOY that Krista is doing so well!! Sounds like that second surgery did the trick. I'll bet the relief is palpable!
How blessed you are to have had such a mother! I am delighted to hear that her service was so well attended and meaningful.
I can't think of anyone who more deserves a day of rest and reflection. =Make that a month!= So glad things have "got de turn."
Love you! ♥
thank you! Derek just called and they had a yogurt date at 6 am, Krista is just starting to learn what all has happened to her, is handling it well and is beginning to have some strength in her squeezes! <3
I am so proud of Derek, he has been juggling being there for Krista, being with his boys and dealing with Mom's passing. He has had a sad heart for days now but things are looking up and he has been there for everyone, he is bone tired but so thankful and happy for his sweetheaart and his sons, they are doing wonderfully well too.
A wonderful family tribute, thank you Jo.
It's been wonderful watching my kids take up the reins and become terrific parents and spouses. Jo, yours has surely gone above and beyond.
Looks like early winter is about to be upon us. Nights in the 30's, and 20's next week. Checking the sunset time the other night realized that sundown has retreated from seven to six thirty. The wooly worms looked to be about normal: small black band front and back, and wide rust in the middle. Sometime before I die want to see one with wide black bands and a narrow rust one. . . .
....and what would that mean, Puddle? They are older or more rare, etc...?
Black is warm weather; rust is cold weather, lol! The width of the bands is supposed to predict the winter's weather. . . .
http://www.woollyworm.com/
Ah, thanks for the explanation. I hope you see the warm weather version sometime and the influence spreads this bit further south. Cold weather makes things difficult for those of us down yonder!
Brenda brought a delicious new pasta dish and a supply of homemade granola bars for dinner for us today--with left-overs for the week.
Speaking of wooly worms! Forecast just out for FROST for
the Piedmont area of North Carolina tonight. Too soon, too soon!
that's crazy, the low here is in the 40s. get out the blankets!
I'm so happy for the upturn, Jo...right where it was most needed, too. ♥
We are expecting colder temps this week. It's okay. Amazingly we haven't had a killing frost here yet! We might have some snowflakes in the coming week. Now that would be worth something! :-)
I have ended every day this week exhausted. I'd really like one day to end differently. I think my best chance coming up is Wednesday. We'll see!
But a lot of good stuff got done. Just need some balance.
Good news here. The maintenance man has orders to replace my old complicated thermostat with a new digital one TODAY. I have one that I think was probably installed
in the late eighties when this old commercial building was
turned into lovely apartments. My thermostat has gotten crankier and crankier--as have I in dealing with it:)! We don't have extremes of weather here, but we can have periods of damp, humid, funky weather that we need to adjust for.
Shirlee, did you get your frost last night? I think we must have--it was already below the predicted low of 36º when I went to bed. But some hard frosts coming later this week.
No frost here, I think they are now predicting it for later in the week also. Not looking forward to it whenever it comes.
Another beautiful day here.
Hey hey hey! In addition to the last three seasons for The Waltons, I got:
"Upstairs Downstairs - The Complete Series Megaset"
Special Features
All 68 episodes on 20 DVDs, digitally remastered and presented in their original production order
Includes shows not aired during the original broadcast
Includes the hour-long retrospective Upstairs Downstairs Remembered: The 25th Anniversary Special
*THAT* ought to hold me for a couple of years, lol!
Wow, Puddle--happy watching!!! Big news at 216--maintenance man just installed a new digital thermostat for my ac/ heat pump system--whoopee! He thought the old one was probably at least 25 years old. He was also able to lower it--so I could reach it.
fantastic Puddle. Have a grand time and lots of popcorn
so much going on here! happy for the new little one Shirlee! and the new thermostat! so glad you are home Pat, that was fast, I thought it would be so much longer!
Still all good news on this end. Krista got her helmet yesterday so can get up and about a bit, do some PT, get rid of the catheter, etc. Derek says she has a sense of humor that he has never seen in her before, not at all depressed but making light of it all, taking it all in stride. Derek and boys are doing great, we’re all doing much better than last week. thank you again for your love and prayers!
Wonderful to hear of Krista's great progress, Jo.,,, Good thoughts from GSO t0 all.
Wow Jo, that is such great news. I'm so glad for you!
Too many meetings to go to here. Tonight, the guy for Medicare Advantage plans.
Tomorrow, a meeting about all the hospital mergers here in Washington. Seems the Catholic hospitals are eating up the secular ones. So we are going to the meeting to see what we can do about it.
Thursday, a meeting about the creek that our little neck of the woods is named after (Thornton Creek). It apparently has e.coli in it. So we need to find out what we can do about it.
Always something. Much love and many hugs to bloggie friends.
Good jobs, Barb--once a Deaniac, always a Deaniac!
The worst thing about bloodwork is no coffee after midnight. The second worst thing is no sleep. (My alarm clock has such a tiny sound, I was afraid to take ma NyQuil.)
Howsumevah, the drive is gorgeous!
Oh, sorry about that Puddle but happy you had a lovely day.
I really wish they would re-think the need for some tests that require a 12 hour fast at least for the over 65'ers. Whenever I have one of those it takes me 24-48 hours to re-cover.
New thermostat is just dandy! Went out for a walk this afternoon and actually came home to a warm apartment.
Hope your blood tests are A-OK!
Reading blog...not much able to post.
Love you all!!
Well, always good to see your smiling face anyway, Listener!
Shirlee, yay! Just in time to have warmth on demand, lol! We sure have a cold one, with maybe snow coming.
the no-good do-nothing OWS losers have
managed to abolish $12,397,317 of personal medical debt
01.23.2013
$1,119,209.20 abolished
Type Medical
Number of Debtors 1064
Average Debt/Debtor $903.40
11.09.2012
$100,145.75 abolished
Type Medical
Number of Debtors 44
Average Debt/Debtor $2276.04
http://rollingjubilee.org
stop already with the childish, passive/agressive bullshit comments Judy.
no one here thinks that people who support OWS are the "no-good do-nothing OWS losers". well, except perhaps we might think that about YOU, who just can't resist coming here to piss all over this place. you have a serious problem. get help.
Thank You, Jo!
Occupy Wall Street is the 99% (US!) and I'm not sure that I disapprove of that particular medical debt being "abolished".
Endured a rant on facebook yesterday by a woman/friend the system as it stands has almost completely failed. She has a rare set of diseases, is losing her home and animals, is running daily auctions on personal belongings. The rant? Against her insurance company who's been denying her claims? Nope. Against government workers/government who NEVER DOES ANYTHING AT ALL RIGHT. . . .
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/10/21/the-real-story-with-obamacare-it-woes-is-out-of-control-private-contractors/
Funny that: Obama kept his reelection campaign software in-house, and it was top of the game--miles ahead of Mitt's contractor-riddled failure.
We also know that in-house SS admin costs one or two percent as compared to the Republican dream of private retirement which is estimated to cost 10 or 12 percent to administer (assuming the stock market doesn't kill it in other ways. . . .).
hi ladies! a quick pop in to update you on Krista. she is doing great! she now has her helmet so has started PT, her sons are visiting her for the first time today and she may be leaving the ICU for a private room on Sunday! Derek says that her attitude is awesome. he is very thankful for all of your prayers. me too! <3
Such good news about Krista, Jo. Thank You-
On a political note: I do believe some callers from DNC
for fund-raising need more training or their guidelines re-written. I have had two calls one this summer and one just now. Both thanked me for my monthly support--which I know is small--then they go on to describe the problems we are having and could I give $225 right now? When I say No,
but, and intending to add "maybe a smaller amount" they immediately hang up! No way to win friends! OFA --President Obama's old group is more sensible. They start by asking for MUCH less and when I offered even less than that the person calling was pleasant and grateful.
Jo, that is truly excellent!
I have never liked the DNC tactics - other than when Howard was in charge! when I have money to donate I tendd to locate someone who I want to support and then go through aactblue.
Krista and the boys had a wonderful visit! the oldest was relieved that his Mom looked much better than he expected she would - he has I am sure picked up on the seriousness of this and the imagination can be mush worse than reality, although this was a pretty bad situation any way that you look at it. they have now determnined that she will probably move from ICU on Friday. yay!
Ally had scans today, but her doctor wasn't able to be there to read them as usually happens. Not sure whether we'll hear tonight or tomorrow. Prayers cherished, especially for Ally's Mom who does not like the tension of waiting.
While we wait, here's a video from Ally's hospital. Ally's nurses can be seen at the .40 mark!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnG3MKos87A&feature=share
Roar, Ally, Roar! ♥
SO HAPPY TO HEAR IT, JO!!!
Sweet that the boys finally got to visit Mom!!
They must ALL feel such relief!
Awesome that Krista is leaving the ICU Friday!!!!
♥ Alleluia! Alleluia! ♥
thank you! prayers for Ally! xo
No news is... no news.
Good wishes for Krista and family and Ally. Was she in he video. Listener? I thought I spotted a little blonde who resembled the photos that turned up on Puddle's blog.
My comment was a QUOTE from someone else...all QUOTE, and it was tongue in cheek, WRITTEN BY SOMEONE ELSE, if you had gone to the link.
I do approve of what OWS is doing. This is fabulous help for people in debt.
I don't appreciate being called names and told to "get help" when I offer something positive. It's abusive.
It was abusive at the WC and it's still abusive.
Judy
Here's the full blog post from DU
BEGIN QUOTE: BY AGONY
Agony (1,491 posts)
the no-good do-nothing OWS losers have
managed to abolish $12,397,317 of personal medical debt
01.23.2013
$1,119,209.20 abolished
Type Medical
Number of Debtors 1064
Average Debt/Debtor $903.40
11.09.2012
$100,145.75 abolished
Type Medical
Number of Debtors 44
Average Debt/Debtor $2276.04
http://rollingjubilee.org
there are good people in the world.
Agony UNQUOTE
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10023904586
**********
I think an apology is in order.
Judy
funny that you think we're all psychic and would know - without quotations or any other indication - that this was a quote and not something that you wrote - it soundes so much like you. but that doesn't matter because I don't click links from you and I never will. so kiss my ass Judy, you know that you are no longer welcome here so bugger off.
it's pretty simple Judy - if you don't want to be 'abused' don't bother people who don't like you.
since you keep popping in here just what are you looking for? you certainly don't expect us to forget who you really are, to give you another chance at playing nice, you who were the queen of name-calling, passive/agressive meanness on the old blog. you who personally threatened our friend. nope, doesn't matter how much water goes under this bridge, we gave you mulitple chances here to be a part of this group but you just couldn't stop being you so just to be clear YOU ARE NO LONGER WELCOME HERE JUDY FOR ANY REASON.
Great news on Krista and Ally! Still sending healing vibes.
Going to a meeting tonight to see what we can do about ecoli in our local water shed that actually waters part of our yard.
Much love to all bloggie friends.
Ally's parents got a call from Ally's oncologist at 6:45 this morning:
♥ CLEAR SCANS! ♥
Shirlee, no, Ally wasn't in the video because she's so healthy she isn't there very often. :-)
GOOD news, Listener. Thanks for the identification clarification.
listener, SO glad for Ally and her family!
Jo, Krista is doing marvelously. And quick! Am really happy for you all. I had a neighbor who had a really massive brain aneurism a few years ago--today, no way one would ever know.
sea, you really do need to find something else to do beside hanging around here. The chemistry clearly is wrong for both sides. Why don't you learn to let it be? Peace.
We got a good hard freeze last night. Still only 34º and snow predicted for today and tomorrow. Nancy was out walking yesterday afternoon, and it was snowing up there! I haven't seen any. Yet.
Apparently we had a bit of frost on the southern side of Guilford County.last night per the local paper!
sooo happy for ALly and family! what a long road this has been for you all. <3
Shirlee and puddle what the hell is up with that? it's in the 40s here so far north of you and no snow in the near future that we can see other than maybe a dusting in the highest elevations!
Who knows? This week's daytime temps have been in the fifties. Next week in the sixties. Have a couple of up and down the street errands for next week, so hope the forecast holds.
Coming up --freeze watch 27 to 32 degrees from Friday evening to Saturday morning--all of central North Carolina.
Puddle has mountains, we have hills--maybe makes a difference? I have a stash of books that are waiting to be read--week-end coming up. Perfect timing!
windchill: 26º
ouch puddle! it's 43 here with a light wind and it feels COLD!
I just moived my bed, I have it over the heat register during spring and summer then move it so that the heat can circulate better in the winter. that means that I also get the dust bunnies out of the corners, fresh sheets and blankets a new start, I like a change-up now and then!
Shirlee we have mountains and hills too - puddle and I live along the same mountain range!
Well, there goes my theory--but that did occur to me after I had made that first statement!
Beautiful looking day today. To see; but it's dang cold!
Sounds like Jo got some snow, too.
no snow in Burl but the mountains are covered with a few inches.
Krista got out of ICU today and will move to the rehab facility tomorrow morning - it's a part of the hospital but a few miles away. my good friend who had a stroke a few years ago rehabbed there and I went to a few of her sessions - the facility is great and they are wonderful there! they expect she will be going home in a week or so. This facility has free parking and shorter walks to visit so this will be good for her visitors!
Stay warm ladies! xoxoxo
Hi friends,
Well, home again. It's like sitting and talking to an old friend: at first so much excitement, little concentration, but with some rest, with some time, home invites us in.
My watch broke, a raven flew over the deck, and I wondered about time and how much we are part of it, coming going, learning, being, loving.
Jo, I'm so glad Krista is recovering. What a blessing!
Beautiful days here. We received propane two days ago, the electricity, phone, internet, water is all on. We missed leaf peeping this year, and the aspens are past their peak, but the days that azure blue, cloudless, warm, as if they will just go on and on.
Many people have lost homes, jobs, and the rivers have reshaped the land. Where there were roads and forest, now estuary. Rivers expanded several times their size.
But, home and an awareness of the miracle of being alive, of breathing, thinking, caring, imagining.
So glad to have your friendship.
Pat --how wonderful that you are HOME! There is nothing like being just where you want to be. It is good to know you are back safey.
I am so happy that you are home Pat! your description brings me right there with you! <3
28 degrees at 8:00 AM in GSO --but I am sure it is great weather for the Greensboro Marathon races today. Set up, start and finish lines just outside my building. Greensboro is a wonderful town for racers of all ages it seems. Helps to have a 50,000 university student population. Plenty of racers of all ages up to 60.
Have a happy day, all!
Phone lines on the fritz all evening last night. Twas 22º before bedtime. But no real snow. And heading into a warmer week, whew.
Pat, how lovely to be home!! Let it love and heal you.
Shirlee, enjoy your runners!
Having spent the whole year with The Waltons, I truly had a most difficult time understanding even half the talk on the first disc of Upstairs Downstairs, lol! The Waltons' accents consisting of Hollywood's concept of a Western Virginia accent (sounding more to me like deep Georgia backwoods, maybe), and then being plunged into various shades of cockney, Lol! I know from experience that I'll get it, but clearly no switching back and forth. And no closed captions, either, alas.
Pat, so glad you're home and enjoying the home and the land and sky.
Halloween party for us tonight. haven't been to one in years. Still have the witches hat I made yrs ago. Just your basic black cheapo hat, but I have a spray of long (over 2 feet) of narrow grass that was dyed purple that I've pinned to the brim and wrapped around the crown. looks just spectacular and changes the "witch" look.
much love to my bloggie buds.
S
Runners finished about 3:00, everyone and everything
cleared away. Winners in the several categories, but the nicest was that a husband and wife each won in their respective categories. I am not really a sports fan, but the number and variety and purpose of the GSO races intrigues me.
Barb that seems to be a very classy witches hat you have created! Have fun at your party.
Puddle, hope you master the accents!
Hi,
Thank you for your good wishes. I've enjoyed reading the posts.
Today a beautiful day, went walking with Molly Magee, collected seeds from rabbit brush, milkweed, and wild rose hips. The grasses are gold, copper, and russet. I wondered why the leaves are most beautiful in their maturity. Maybe we are too with the experience of living.
Tonight we'll watch Cloud Atlas on TV, an interesting science fiction tale that is complex enough to need another viewing.
Life is good no matter what comes our way. We have the strength and trust that we go on.
Good to be with you.
Wonderful to have you and your wise comments back, Pat.
Happy Home!
new thread!
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