Daily Ooos: December 13-14: Weekend Edition

[faerywings]

Wooo hoooo!!! What a successful field trip yesterday! I think it was my favorite one so far. Even more than the stream study or the bird ID ones.
I have to give a HUGE shoutout to Scott for letting me borrow his supplies, the kids were fascinated by everything. You should have seen the boys' faces light up when I told them the skull was a real one.

We started the day by naming a stuffed beaver, now known as Mr. Nibblestix. We discussed dam building and beaver anatomy. That is where the skull came in handy. Showing the kids how the nose, eyes, and ears are located on top of the head so they can swim almost entirely underwater had their attention *locked.* The STEM Dam and Lodge building was also amazing. For that, I had prepped material kits for 6 groups-- they had a piece of foil for the stream, a paper bowl with an entrance cut out, some salt clay/dirt to stick the twigs and branches, and another bowl with potting soil and some water to mix more mud. They gathered all of the natural materials and built the dam and lodge on the stream. When they were finished, I did a "Water Test" to see if the dam would hold back the water. I was cracking up as they were zooming all over to get their sticks and dried grass and then problem-solving as they worked. Mr. Nibblestix oversaw the process.

And yet, I still wasn't done with them before we broke for lunch- we made the pretzel and melted chocolate cookies, shaped like beaver lodges. All of my bowls and spoons are still in the bags, needing to be washed. By the time I got home, it was 4 pm and I was POOPED OUT! I asked Gary if people get more tired when they are outside in the cold weather because I really was exhausted. I took a nice hot shower and had leftovers for dinner in my PJs.
I have two more field trips to plan before the holidays- One is for my coworker's HS Pod nextFriday and then the other one is for the JW Pod on Dec 22nd. I wasn't sure if they would still want to have that date because --well, a couple of days before Christmas. But I honestly don't know how they celebrate Christmas, if at all. I asked the mom who coordinated the trips and she said she currently has a full group signed up. I am going to do the Winter Solstice, focusing on the planetary significance and maybe a little bit of winter nature crafts.

I am soooo glad that I am not working today. If you could see how messy my house it-- and how bonkers my Christmas to-do list is... it's baaaaaad.

Maybe scrapping today?? It is the last day for the Party games:

Games portion closing Saturday Dec 13th at 11.59pm


What amazing plans do you have today?

Love and hugs!!

 

[faerywings]

Happy Friday to all of yOu.
Bunko was fun last night, there was 20 of us so it was loud and hectic.. The food was excellent, my cheesy bites went over well so I was happy. I did not win--I never do! We all had our ugly Christmas clothes on so it was funny. By the end of the evening my knee was really sore and all I wanted to do was sit with it elevated, my hip was fine so this was just proof that I need to address my knee next. Yuck.
I have nothing planned for today except some Christmas wrapping for the Secret Santa party tomorrow night. I may see if the girls want to take a walk but it would be later as it's cold here this morning..46* I know that isn't really cold but for Florida it is and I have turned into a wimp.
Dear granddaughter called yesterday to tell me it is single digits till we see her. She is so excited to come down here for Christmas so we will have fun showing her a Florida Christmas.

Bunko sounds like it was a blast, even if you didn't win/ Did you get any pics of you in your PJs?
That really stinks that your knee was bothering you - but how cool that your hip didn't hurt.
46* must feel frigid to you, just like my 20* feels warm to Tracy. Our bodies really adjust to what is "normal" to us. (Doesn't mean we have to like it though )
I would be soooo excited to visit FL in the winter, just to get a small break from the cold. I am sure that G-DD is just happy to visit you, no matter what the weather.

Hard to improve on that. Unless you are @BoatLady and going to be sitting (well, I don't think that Debby sits a bunch) out in the warm Florida sunshine. I remember those days...as I use my little snow thrower to clear the sidewalks. We have made a couple of good purchases this year as we get into winter. The Heat Traks are the bomb! And my little snow thrower...we had about 1 1/2 inches yesterday afternoon and I got to use it for the first time. It doesn't take any exertion on my part and actually it makes me feel more comfortable as I walk down our driveway...not such a fear of falling down.

ITA agree about Debby and the non-sitting LOL! That is awesome that the Heat Traks and the snow thrower are helping. I'm guessing you have a full-size snowblower for the "real" Iowa snowfall?

Have a great time. That's a big group with such a large age range...4 to 12...always the best vibes coming for you. I love that you do this!

TY!! There was a new little one yesterday, she was 4, and English isn't her first language- she mostly speaks Spanish. Her mom was one of the chaperones and helped with some translating. But lemme tell you, this little girl was awesome! She kept up with the big kids and ran around smiling the whole time. The 12-year-old is always one of my bigger challenges. He will get very loud, right in my face, even if I am crouched down talking to one of the little ones. But we are getting there with him. (only been a year! Hahaha!)

What a day! We got down on the floor and played with blocks and did a puzzle. I keep the kids toys in a closet in the basement and they like to go to the basement. We went up and down the steps probably at least 6 times. Which I'm sure matches the number of times I went down there in the last two months. (Shaun and Sydney both have bedrooms down there and then there is a bathroom that they share and a family room. So I don't go down very often although it is a nice living space.) The electric fireplace changes colors and so we would watch for purple which is Wavy's favorite color (as I heard 100's of times). We colored together and we learned that we both shared the name "NOEL" and we learned that the only way to get marshmallows for dessert was to take a bite of our sandwich and it couldn't be just the little tiny bite...it needed to be a bite that requires real chewing. And she styled my hair. Then we went to the library and spent a couple of hours. It was a VERY GOOD DAY!

My heart is melting. What a day is right!! ♥
I cannot stand how cute Wavy is! I am so happy for you, you seem to be enjoyingretirement and being back home with your family so very much.
And the "bite big enough to need chewing" -- that is brilliant!

Tonight is the concert for my chorus.

How was the concert? And how many people got bonked in the head by the music folders?

Not that three people is going to make a difference but I am pretty good at making up excuses for stuff I want to do anyway.

Again, you have me LMBO!

He'll be 78 next month, so there's nothing surprising but every so often aging just hits you in the face.

I'm sorry about that.
It's not the same, but whenever I see my dad (87), it hits me in the face too.

My book group has decided that the style of skipping around time is one of our least-loved styles of modern writers.

With you all on that. I don't mind if it is done clearly with "reminders" of what happened/is happening. But often it just tosses timelines around, and my memory isn't strong enough to keep them straight.

Snowing here today. Starting to stick! But it's 36 degrees, so I don't see it lasting very long!
The frame was 24x30...a poster frame with a very thin acrylic protective "glass". The frame was perfect for the 1000 piece puzzle. It was easy enough to spread the frame enough to slide the puzzle behind the little tabs along the edge that bend over to hold the backing on. I also bought a small jar of the mod podge and a pack of foam brushes. The total cost was just over $30 with taxes.

It sounds lovely!!

The soup turned out good with the chili spices. It was a little hot for me but Mark loved it!

So with a few tweaks, you can keep the new version in your soup rotation
Did you end up with any snow accumulation? If I had to take the bet, I would say that the snow wouldn't hinder Mark's trek into the woods at all

Morning, all. I was busy scrapping yesterday and the next thing I knew it is 4:30PM... I was still in PJs... and no errands run. So today I must run my errands and go to the library. Just as well as now I can have the librarian stamp off on this week's reading time (Winter Reading challenge) while I am there. Only 3 more weeks to go on that challenge - then I get to pick a free book.



Can't believe the turn-around in our weather... it is getting up to 60'sF for the next week!!! Breaking high temps records!!! Doesn't look like we will have a White Christmas this year... At least I don't worry about icy roads when I am out and about.

How many ready challenges do you have going on? And how do you keep them straight?
Wait! I know that!! Do you have more spreadsheets and inventory trackers?
Send the warmer air here when you are done with it. Please! I looked at the historical averages this morning and we are running at least 10*s colder in both highs and lows than normal. It was 17* when I woke up this morning, and we aren't even technically in winter.

Maybe if you sat on the floor and held Jaida and could then cold compress her incision. My dogs will allow just about anything so long as I hold them LOL

I tried that, but that's when she glares, gets up, and walks away.

Real feel is -9. Now I feel cold.

Brutal, absolutely brutal.

Good morning ladies. It's been a busy morning and I still need to run a few errands (pick up polar bear photo for framing...yay) and then get home to shower and get ready for the party.

I still can't getover that you have polar bear photos. How did you choose just one to frame? All of the ones I saw on FB were incredible!

Tomorrow I'll be getting food ready and tidying up for our house party tomorrow night. It's going to be a fun wkend. Sunday the dogs get their santa photos which is always fun.

Please post here when you can. I always get such a kick out of seeing them every year. ♥

xoxoxo

 

[vickyday]

Wooo hoooo!!! What a successful field trip yesterday! I think it was my favorite one so far. Even more than the stream study or the bird ID ones.
I have to give a HUGE shoutout to Scott for letting me borrow his supplies, the kids were fascinated by everything. You should have seen the boys' faces light up when I told them the skull was a real one.

We started the day by naming a stuffed beaver, now known as Mr. Nibblestix. We discussed dam building and beaver anatomy. That is where the skull came in handy. Showing the kids how the nose, eyes, and ears are located on top of the head so they can swim almost entirely underwater had their attention *locked.* The STEM Dam and Lodge building was also amazing. For that, I had prepped material kits for 6 groups-- they had a piece of foil for the stream, a paper bowl with an entrance cut out, some salt clay/dirt to stick the twigs and branches, and another bowl with potting soil and some water to mix more mud. They gathered all of the natural materials and built the dam and lodge on the stream. When they were finished, I did a "Water Test" to see if the dam would hold back the water. I was cracking up as they were zooming all over to get their sticks and dried grass and then problem-solving as they worked. Mr. Nibblestix oversaw the process.

And yet, I still wasn't done with them before we broke for lunch- we made the pretzel and melted chocolate cookies, shaped like beaver lodges. All of my bowls and spoons are still in the bags, needing to be washed. By the time I got home, it was 4 pm and I was POOPED OUT! I asked Gary if people get more tired when they are outside in the cold weather because I really was exhausted. I took a nice hot shower and had leftovers for dinner in my PJs.
I have two more field trips to plan before the holidays- One is for my coworker's HS Pod nextFriday and then the other one is for the JW Pod on Dec 22nd. I wasn't sure if they would still want to have that date because --well, a couple of days before Christmas. But I honestly don't know how they celebrate Christmas, if at all. I asked the mom who coordinated the trips and she said she currently has a full group signed up. I am going to do the Winter Solstice, focusing on the planetary significance and maybe a little bit of winter nature crafts.

I am soooo glad that I am not working today. If you could see how messy my house it-- and how bonkers my Christmas to-do list is... it's baaaaaad.

Maybe scrapping today?? It is the last day for the Party games:

Games portion closing Saturday Dec 13th at 11.59pm


What amazing plans do you have today?

Love and hugs!!

What a fun day you had yesterday! I would have loved to share in that activity! Yes, it is amazing how being outside in the fresh air wears you out! It rejuvenates you while out there, but you hit a wall when inside!

 

[vickyday]

Bunko sounds like it was a blast, even if you didn't win/ Did you get any pics of you in your PJs?
That really stinks that your knee was bothering you - but how cool that your hip didn't hurt.
46* must feel frigid to you, just like my 20* feels warm to Tracy. Our bodies really adjust to what is "normal" to us. (Doesn't mean we have to like it though )
I would be soooo excited to visit FL in the winter, just to get a small break from the cold. I am sure that G-DD is just happy to visit you, no matter what the weather.


ITA agree about Debby and the non-sitting LOL! That is awesome that the Heat Traks and the snow thrower are helping. I'm guessing you have a full-size snowblower for the "real" Iowa snowfall?

TY!! There was a new little one yesterday, she was 4, and English isn't her first language- she mostly speaks Spanish. Her mom was one of the chaperones and helped with some translating. But lemme tell you, this little girl was awesome! She kept up with the big kids and ran around smiling the whole time. The 12-year-old is always one of my bigger challenges. He will get very loud, right in my face, even if I am crouched down talking to one of the little ones. But we are getting there with him. (only been a year! Hahaha!)


My heart is melting. What a day is right!! ♥
I cannot stand how cute Wavy is! I am so happy for you, you seem to be enjoyingretirement and being back home with your family so very much.
And the "bite big enough to need chewing" -- that is brilliant!


How was the concert? And how many people got bonked in the head by the music folders?

Again, you have me LMBO!

I'm sorry about that.
It's not the same, but whenever I see my dad (87), it hits me in the face too.

With you all on that. I don't mind if it is done clearly with "reminders" of what happened/is happening. But often it just tosses timelines around, and my memory isn't strong enough to keep them straight.

It sounds lovely!!

So with a few tweaks, you can keep the new version in your soup rotation
Did you end up with any snow accumulation? If I had to take the bet, I would say that the snow wouldn't hinder Mark's trek into the woods at all

How many ready challenges do you have going on? And how do you keep them straight?
Wait! I know that!! Do you have more spreadsheets and inventory trackers?
Send the warmer air here when you are done with it. Please! I looked at the historical averages this morning and we are running at least 10*s colder in both highs and lows than normal. It was 17* when I woke up this morning, and we aren't even technically in winter.

I tried that, but that's when she glares, gets up, and walks away.

Brutal, absolutely brutal.

I still can't getover that you have polar bear photos. How did you choose just one to frame? All of the ones I saw on FB were incredible!

Please post here when you can. I always get such a kick out of seeing them every year. ♥

xoxoxo

The snow was gone by the next time I looked outside.
You are so correct.....snow wouldn't hinder Mark from going to the woods!

 

[vickyday]

Good morning,
Another weird night. Went to bed at 10 with Mark, who went to bed early for a weekend night, but I went right to sleep. Woke up at 2:22 to use the bathroom. Mark woke up at 3:22 for the bathroom. I got up again for some Tylenol. Probably didn't fall back to sleep until around 6:30. Mark got up at 7. He left at 7:30 to pick up his stepson to spend the day with him. I got up after he left because I couldn't go back to sleep. Got dressed (can't be in my jammies with Michael here, lol) and went to the kitchen to fix my coffee. Found my coffee already made by my sweet man!

Today, I MUST go to Ilene's to water her flowers and collect her mail! I was supposed to do that on Thursday! OOPS! She is cruising in the Bahamas this week with her family. She'll be back tomorrow! OOPS! Remembered it earlier in the week, but too early. Then totally forgot about it the rest of the week until last night! OOPS! I hope her plants have not died!

Other than that, not a whole lot planned. My December monthly is focusing on the birds at my feeders since I'm also doing a daily page of selfies of Mark and I along with our activities of the day. It is hard for me, a stay-at-home-retiree to document something different for each day!

It is 25 degrees this morning with the promise of low 50's by this afternoon! That must mean sunshine! We shall see! We had more snow showers yesterday, but no accumulation!

Have a great day!

 

[LSlycord]

Good morning all! The snow is coming down...again. Seriously, this winter is making sure that I understand why I moved back here.

Wooo hoooo!!! What a successful field trip yesterday! I think it was my favorite one so far. Even more than the stream study or the bird ID ones.
I have to give a HUGE shoutout to Scott for letting me borrow his supplies, the kids were fascinated by everything. You should have seen the boys' faces light up when I told them the skull was a real one.

We started the day by naming a stuffed beaver, now known as Mr. Nibblestix. We discussed dam building and beaver anatomy. That is where the skull came in handy. Showing the kids how the nose, eyes, and ears are located on top of the head so they can swim almost entirely underwater had their attention *locked.* The STEM Dam and Lodge building was also amazing. For that, I had prepped material kits for 6 groups-- they had a piece of foil for the stream, a paper bowl with an entrance cut out, some salt clay/dirt to stick the twigs and branches, and another bowl with potting soil and some water to mix more mud. They gathered all of the natural materials and built the dam and lodge on the stream. When they were finished, I did a "Water Test" to see if the dam would hold back the water. I was cracking up as they were zooming all over to get their sticks and dried grass and then problem-solving as they worked. Mr. Nibblestix oversaw the process.

It sounds wonderful! And I am sure that Scott is so very proud of you and the work that you are doing!!

TY!! There was a new little one yesterday, she was 4, and English isn't her first language- she mostly speaks Spanish. Her mom was one of the chaperones and helped with some translating. But lemme tell you, this little girl was awesome! She kept up with the big kids and ran around smiling the whole time. The 12-year-old is always one of my bigger challenges. He will get very loud, right in my face, even if I am crouched down talking to one of the little ones. But we are getting there with him. (only been a year! Hahaha!)

Wow...4 and English as a second language! But that 4 year old energy is so good. And 12 year old energy is an entirely different challenge. Awesome job of keeping them all engaged. And no...we don't have an "Iowa winter" snowblower. The garage really isn't big enough to store it. For the big snows, we hire someone to do the drive.

 

[BoatLady]

Well happy weekend to everyone. FYI Dick Van Dyke is 100 today and still going strong. He is such an amazing talent , kind and generous too. A big Happy Birthday to Dick Van Dyke.

Well @AK_Tracy sounds like you are having Alaska weather but not the snow yet. Do you usually have a white Christmas up there?

@faerywings . How fun to have a very excited 4 year old hopefully you will be able to work with her in the future. Kids like that must make your day. Then your 12 year old is a challenge I am sure you will conquer some day.
Yesterday your beaver program must have been awesome....LOL with the boys loving the skull...how boyish was that!! They are pretty amazing animals that most people know nothing about so your program brings an awareness to them.
Two more programs before Christmas..wow you are really going to be worn out. I do believe being outside wears you out especially if it's cold cause your body has to work more to stay warm enough.

@vickyday I hope you were successful keeping your friends plants alive, it's slow growing season so they shouldn't need much care. How lucky to have your coffee ready for you when you got up.
You just invented a new recipe for your special soup!

@LSlycord Thank goodness for those little snowblowers for the light snow, a left blowers works for some snows too. Stay warm.

@Terri M LOL "every so often aging just hits you in the face" Sure does every morning with I get out of bed, every time I sit too long or stand too long. Beats the alternative though.

This pic is our ugly Christmas Bunko evening with most of our Florida Sisters.
Yesterday I went with Jay to do a few errands, wrapped presents, made a huge pot of beef stew. Cleaned my countertops but didn't seal the granite because in a month it will be taken out. It was nice in the afternoon so I went out to check some plants and look at my orchids that are growing in the trees. I have one more to put in a tree but it has flower stalks so I need to wait and another that was doing poorly so I have it in a water culture till it's better than I will put that in a tree also. I tried to go online to register the new appliances...well that was frustrating I guess I already had a LG account but couldn't remember the password so I tried to reset several times...no wonder my hair is so gray!!!! I gave up.
I will make an appetizer to take to our friends Secret Santa party tonight the gifts are wrapped so looking forward to it. She has all kinds of Christmas games. It will be a house full with all the spouses too.
This morning I washed sheets so they are outside drying. I vacuumed the house and cleaned both bathrooms. I also did my daily PT exercises. Hubby went to get more cracked corn for the shore birds that I feed with Kirsten coming down I will need to have lots for an extra feeding. I better go out to get the turtles to start coming over since my hip replacement I haven't walked to the pond much but now that I am better I need to get the bravest to start coming up the hill to be fed. All the kids love to feed Jimmy.

@bcgal00 Have fun at your parties...sounds like you enjoying your life...excellent!!!

Got to run, have a fabulous Saturday

 

[Terri M]

Sunny day and not too cold so this afternoon we absolutely must get in at least a short hike before I just melt down into a blob. Our nephew is on the way -- he is running later that he expected -- so it will be an afternoon activity.

I forgot that I have to come up with a trivia contest for tomorrow's Trails Crew party. Oops! (to quote @vickyday ). Well, I suppose I can squeeze that is somehow.

I didn't get the day 12 layout done yesterday, but I have a couple weeks to get that in. I enjoyed trying to keep up every day, and looking at all the layouts posted.

Wooo hoooo!!! What a successful field trip yesterday! I think it was my favorite one so far.

Super! And now you have an entire, long, put-together day planned out and ready to go whenever.

How was the concert?

The concert went really well. The audience is mostly family and friends of the singers, so it's not like we're facing a critical reception. I always have fun - although I did get bopped on the head a few times, the folders are soft.

It is hard for me, a stay-at-home-retiree to document something different for each day!

There are some weeks I say "how many pictures of the garden do I really need this year?" And sometimes a good part of my page is made up of a comic strip that was particularly appropriate that week. So, yeah, I totally get what you mean!

Beats the alternative though.

I say that to David every time he whines about how he's feeling. He doesn't always take it well, LOL!

 

[LSlycord]

Today, I MUST go to Ilene's to water her flowers and collect her mail! I was supposed to do that on Thursday! OOPS! She is cruising in the Bahamas this week with her family. She'll be back tomorrow! OOPS! Remembered it earlier in the week, but too early. Then totally forgot about it the rest of the week until last night! OOPS! I hope her plants have not died!

This literally had me laughing out loud. It sounds so much like me.

Good morning ladies. It's been a busy morning and I still need to run a few errands (pick up polar bear photo for framing...yay) and then get home to shower and get ready for the party.

Tomorrow I'll be getting food ready and tidying up for our house party tomorrow night. It's going to be a fun wkend. Sunday the dogs get their santa photos which is always fun.

Never got a chance to do any challenges but I didn't expect to, not with D in the hospital these last 2 wks and trying to organize 2 parties and get my decorations up. But, everything is going along smoothly, I think. Darrell is home, feels good and I think I'm on top of all party plans.

So glad that Darrell is home. Getting through this party is quite an achievement under the circumstances. You really found the right place to be when you moved! How long have you been there? 2 years...or 3?

We rotated the mattress in the master bedroom yesterday, had to flip it end over end this time. I can really tell that David is not as strong as he used to be. He's going to PT but since he never does the exercises at home I don't know what good it's doing. He'll be 78 next month, so there's nothing surprising but every so often aging just hits you in the face.

I am starting the "every so often aging just hits you in the face" part of life. I just turned 68. Still lots that I can do...but then I get surprised by what I can't do. Ugh... Was the concert tonight or last night? That's quite an adventure.

Morning, all. I was busy scrapping yesterday and the next thing I knew it is 4:30PM... I was still in PJs... and no errands run. So today I must run my errands and go to the library. Just as well as now I can have the librarian stamp off on this week's reading time (Winter Reading challenge) while I am there. Only 3 more weeks to go on that challenge - then I get to pick a free book.

LOL Kay. I hope that yesterday was a better errand day for sure!

 

[LSlycord]

The concert went really well. The audience is mostly family and friends of the singers, so it's not like we're facing a critical reception. I always have fun - although I did get bopped on the head a few times, the folders are soft.

Sounds like you answered my question...concert was last night and sounds like it was fun!

 

[BrightEyes]

Morning, all. Talk about a crazy dream... I dreamed I was having a friend do surgery on my left arm and was giving me shots in it... first the upper arm went numb then it spread to my left leg!!! I guess I was laying on my left side and it was getting numb!!! Crazy, crazy, crazy!!!

How many ready challenges do you have going on? And how do you keep them straight?
Wait! I know that!! Do you have more spreadsheets and inventory trackers?
Send the warmer air here when you are done with it. Please! I looked at the historical averages this morning and we are running at least 10*s colder in both highs and lows than normal. It was 17* when I woke up this morning, and we aren't even technically in winter.

I am an old fashion paper and pencil gal... I use a spiral notebook. I write the month - and the start message and start comment numbers at the top of the page. Then Challenges - details/kit info on the lines down the page. Other kits I take are listed down the page. Put a "+" when I create the LO and a "*" when it is uploaded. Pretty simple to track downloads and I don't have to turn the computer on to see what I need to work on. The only time I work on 2 or more LOs at the same time is when I am creating using the same kit (usually with pre-release collections). Most months it only takes 1 page but some months it takes 2 pages...

Sounds like yesterday was a hit all around with the kids and projects. WOW... what a creative way to engage them with learning about beavers. No wonder you were so tired when you got home. You are a natural born teacher!!!

Good morning all! The snow is coming down...again. Seriously, this winter is making sure that I understand why I moved back here.
And no...we don't have an "Iowa winter" snowblower. The garage really isn't big enough to store it. For the big snows, we hire someone to do the drive.

Glad to hear you and DH are smart enough to hire help for clearing snow when it is from a big snow storm. And that you have a "mini" snowblower to use when it isn't that bad. Hope the weather clears soon and your trip to help pack-up DD's stuff is clear.

Yes, I did manage to get all my errands ran yesterday. I came home with 6 library books - 4 of them are a series by the same author - Gabrielle Meyer - about people (time jumpers) who live 2-4 different lives in different times that shifts every time they go to sleep. They have to chose which life they want to live at age 21... I had to put a hold on 2 more of the series... I am halfway through book #2. Have a feeling that I may be adding them to my collection...

I pulled out enchilada sauce and guacamole for supper last night.... tonight will be the same. Love it! Although it was warm (60*F) at 4 PM... but by 6:30PM the temp had dropped back in 40's. So back into nice warm winter PJs. Thinking that today maybe another PJ day for me.

HAGD

 

[LSlycord]

I tried to go online to register the new appliances...well that was frustrating I guess I already had a LG account but couldn't remember the password so I tried to reset several times...no wonder my hair is so gray!!!! I gave up.

I sometimes find that giving up is the best course of action. Love the photo of all you ladies at the Bunco night. And I bet that you can't wait for your granddaughter to arrive.

 

[LSlycord]

Glad to hear you and DH are smart enough to hire help for clearing snow when it is from a big snow storm. And that you have a "mini" snowblower to use when it isn't that bad. Hope the weather clears soon and your trip to help pack-up DD's stuff is clear.

Yes, I did manage to get all my errands ran yesterday. I came home with 6 library books - 4 of them are a series by the same author - Gabrielle Meyer - about people (time jumpers) who live 2-4 different lives in different times that shifts every time they go to sleep. They have to chose which life they want to live at age 21... I had to put a hold on 2 more of the series... I am halfway through book #2. Have a feeling that I may be adding them to my collection...

I pulled out enchilada sauce and guacamole for supper last night.... tonight will be the same. Love it! Although it was warm (60*F) at 4 PM... but by 6:30PM the temp had dropped back in 40's. So back into nice warm winter PJs. Thinking that today maybe another PJ day for me.

Thanks for the wishes on packing Syd's stuff and her move. You are flying on these books. And I am always so jealous when you have your enchiladas with your homemade sauce. Have a good PJ book and get some reading done.

 

[AK_Tracy]

Good Morning
Extra tired today.

I asked Gary if people get more tired when they are outside in the cold weather because I really was exhausted.

Yes, they do. You have to have energy for movement and then also to keep warm. You get lots more tired in the cold.

Well @AK_Tracy sounds like you are having Alaska weather but not the snow yet. Do you usually have a white Christmas up there?

Always. We always have lots of snow for Christmas but so far this year isn't looking good for it.

Crazy busy weekend of family. Not feeling ready for it yet but here we go. Slept 90 minutes late today and now need coffee.
Have a great day.

 

[vickyday]

Well happy weekend to everyone. FYI Dick Van Dyke is 100 today and still going strong. He is such an amazing talent , kind and generous too. A big Happy Birthday to Dick Van Dyke.

Well @AK_Tracy sounds like you are having Alaska weather but not the snow yet. Do you usually have a white Christmas up there?

@faerywings . How fun to have a very excited 4 year old hopefully you will be able to work with her in the future. Kids like that must make your day. Then your 12 year old is a challenge I am sure you will conquer some day.
Yesterday your beaver program must have been awesome....LOL with the boys loving the skull...how boyish was that!! They are pretty amazing animals that most people know nothing about so your program brings an awareness to them.
Two more programs before Christmas..wow you are really going to be worn out. I do believe being outside wears you out especially if it's cold cause your body has to work more to stay warm enough.

@vickyday I hope you were successful keeping your friends plants alive, it's slow growing season so they shouldn't need much care. How lucky to have your coffee ready for you when you got up.
You just invented a new recipe for your special soup!

@LSlycord Thank goodness for those little snowblowers for the light snow, a left blowers works for some snows too. Stay warm.

@Terri M LOL "every so often aging just hits you in the face" Sure does every morning with I get out of bed, every time I sit too long or stand too long. Beats the alternative though.

This pic is our ugly Christmas Bunko evening with most of our Florida Sisters.
Yesterday I went with Jay to do a few errands, wrapped presents, made a huge pot of beef stew. Cleaned my countertops but didn't seal the granite because in a month it will be taken out. It was nice in the afternoon so I went out to check some plants and look at my orchids that are growing in the trees. I have one more to put in a tree but it has flower stalks so I need to wait and another that was doing poorly so I have it in a water culture till it's better than I will put that in a tree also. I tried to go online to register the new appliances...well that was frustrating I guess I already had a LG account but couldn't remember the password so I tried to reset several times...no wonder my hair is so gray!!!! I gave up.
I will make an appetizer to take to our friends Secret Santa party tonight the gifts are wrapped so looking forward to it. She has all kinds of Christmas games. It will be a house full with all the spouses too.
This morning I washed sheets so they are outside drying. I vacuumed the house and cleaned both bathrooms. I also did my daily PT exercises. Hubby went to get more cracked corn for the shore birds that I feed with Kirsten coming down I will need to have lots for an extra feeding. I better go out to get the turtles to start coming over since my hip replacement I haven't walked to the pond much but now that I am better I need to get the bravest to start coming up the hill to be fed. All the kids love to feed Jimmy.

@bcgal00 Have fun at your parties...sounds like you enjoying your life...excellent!!!

Got to run, have a fabulous Saturday

That looks like a party full of trouble!

 

[vickyday]

This literally had me laughing out loud. It sounds so much like me.


So glad that Darrell is home. Getting through this party is quite an achievement under the circumstances. You really found the right place to be when you moved! How long have you been there? 2 years...or 3?


I am starting the "every so often aging just hits you in the face" part of life. I just turned 68. Still lots that I can do...but then I get surprised by what I can't do. Ugh... Was the concert tonight or last night? That's quite an adventure.

LOL Kay. I hope that yesterday was a better errand day for sure!

The plants had some dead leaves but looked OK for the most part!

 

[faerywings]

Sunday. It is Sunday?
Yes. Although, I thought yesterday was Sunday for some reason. Maybe it will be nice to have two Sundays this weekend LOL!

I had a busy Saturday-Sunday. I had such a huge to-do list and thankfully got a few things crossed off. Not as much as I liked, but some things. As I worked through the list, I found more tasks to be done. I think I might write them down, just to cross them off. I want to feel like I accomplished things!

Scott popped over on his break to grab the beaver stuff to bring back to his work. He was excited to hear how my day went, too. He had told his supervisor that the educators at Weis were borrowing it. The supervisor said that it was "nice to have a good relationship with other ecology centers." Scott and I laughed-- like if he only knew how good the relationship was

Today is going to be more of the same as yesterday. Mostly focusing on Christmas gifts. I want to head around town tomorrow to pick up a few things I can't get online-- a bottle of wine for my brother, scratch-off tickets, and some other things for stockings.

I'm glad I don't have to leave the house today, at least. It snowed overnight and we got more than expected. The forecast said 1-3" but we have closer to 4-5" and still coming down. Let me tell ya, I was not happy at 5 am and then again at 6.30 am walking around outside with Jaida. I think one of the meds she is on is making her thirsty. She seems to be drinking more water, which makes her need to go potty a lot more than usual. I would not mind at all if this were in June, but in Dec. it suuuuuuuuucccckkkkkks.

Enough of my complaining.

Hope you have a fantastic day!

 

[LSlycord]

The plants had some dead leaves but looked OK for the most part!

In my book, that makes you a winner.

 

[LSlycord]

I had a busy Saturday-Sunday. I had such a huge to-do list and thankfully got a few things crossed off. Not as much as I liked, but some things. As I worked through the list, I found more tasks to be done. I think I might write them down, just to cross them off. I want to feel like I accomplished things!

Scott popped over on his break to grab the beaver stuff to bring back to his work. He was excited to hear how my day went, too. He had told his supervisor that the educators at Weis were borrowing it. The supervisor said that it was "nice to have a good relationship with other ecology centers." Scott and I laughed-- like if he only knew how good the relationship was

There have been many times that I have written something on a "to do" list in order to give myself credit for something accomplished. Writing that down sounds a little crazy but I am mostly happy with my crazy!
And I told you that Scott would be so proud of what you had done! Extremely cool moment!

 

[faerywings]

What a fun day you had yesterday! I would have loved to share in that activity! Yes, it is amazing how being outside in the fresh air wears you out! It rejuvenates you while out there, but you hit a wall when inside!

tee-hee! I don't think I ever get the rejuvenate part, but I *do* get the hit the wall bit, and then some

Another weird night. Went to bed at 10 with Mark, who went to bed early for a weekend night, but I went right to sleep. Woke up at 2:22 to use the bathroom. Mark woke up at 3:22 for the bathroom. I got up again for some Tylenol. Probably didn't fall back to sleep until around 6:30. Mark got up at 7. He left at 7:30 to pick up his stepson to spend the day with him. I got up after he left because I couldn't go back to sleep. Got dressed (can't be in my jammies with Michael here, lol) and went to the kitchen to fix my coffee. Found my coffee already made by my sweet man!

What a crazy night! It bet is was a very pleasant surprise to have the coffee made for you. Did you sleep better last night?

I hope her plants have not died!

I hope the same.
Have a great time with the birds and selfies! Sounds like a lot of fun!

Good morning all! The snow is coming down...again. Seriously, this winter is making sure that I understand why I moved back here.

Is it a lot of snow this early in the season for you, too? NJ doesn't typically get snow this often in December. Wonder if that is happening all over.

Wow...4 and English as a second language! But that 4 year old energy is so good. And 12 year old energy is an entirely different challenge. Awesome job of keeping them all engaged.

I will gladly take 4 yo energy over 12 yo energy LOL. At least this group isn't all kooky withthe 6-7 meme stuff like the Scouts are. That is so annoying.

And no...we don't have an "Iowa winter" snowblower. The garage really isn't big enough to store it. For the big snows, we hire someone to do the drive.

Smart smart smart!

I do believe being outside wears you out especially if it's cold cause your body has to work more to stay warm enough.

That is what I think too! Plus all of the extra weight you are wearing, that has to add to it as well.
Oh wow!! TFS that photo, what an absolutely fab group you have!
I wish I lived near you- I would love to feed a turtle named Jimmy!

Sunny day and not too cold so this afternoon we absolutely must get in at least a short hike before I just melt down into a blob.

IKWYM. I am feeling very blobish myself. I was thinking about attending a moss and lichen hike this morning at Weis, just to get out of the house. I don't know if it will run because of the snow but I am not up for that even if it is.

I forgot that I have to come up with a trivia contest for tomorrow's Trails Crew party.

Does the trivia have to be trail-related?

The concert went really well. The audience is mostly family and friends of the singers, so it's not like we're facing a critical reception. I always have fun - although I did get bopped on the head a few times, the folders are soft.

Sounds perfect, minus the occasional bopping.

I am an old fashion paper and pencil gal... I use a spiral notebook. I write the month - and the start message and start comment numbers at the top of the page. Then Challenges - details/kit info on the lines down the page. Other kits I take are listed down the page. Put a "+" when I create the LO and a "*" when it is uploaded. Pretty simple to track downloads and I don't have to turn the computer on to see what I need to work on. The only time I work on 2 or more LOs at the same time is when I am creating using the same kit (usually with pre-release collections). Most months it only takes 1 page but some months it takes 2 pages...

You are so dang organized. I aspire to be -- someday.

WOW... what a creative way to engage them with learning about beavers. No wonder you were so tired when you got home. You are a natural born teacher!!!

Thank you so much! Teaching little kids is my calling and it always makes me feel good when others can see it. One of the moms told me on Friday that she can see how happy it makes me, it is sooo true!
I am trying to figure out some fun/active ways to teach the solstice. I found a game online that I used to teach the Equinox last year. It has the kids Orbit (walk in a circle), Rotate (spin), Tilt, and Equinox (freeze) to mimic the Earth's path-- (and BINGO! I figured out how to adapt it for the Solstice. Solstice means "sun standing still" in Latin. All I need to do is replace the word Equinox with Solstice. We can do the game first, then I'll pass out the flashlights and balls to represent the earth/sun and they can experiment with the light's rays. Sweet!!! And now you got to witness my mental processes making my plans. I gather bits of information, wrangle with them inmy head and it --sometimes -- comes together.)

I pulled out enchilada sauce and guacamole for supper last night.... tonight will be the same. Love it! Although it was warm (60*F) at 4 PM... but by 6:30PM the temp had dropped back in 40's. So back into nice warm winter PJs. Thinking that today maybe another PJ day for me.

Mmmm mmm! Perfect cozy dinner!
Pfft at the 60*s though..... I wish we were anywhere close to that. Anything over freezing would be acceptable, too!

Yes, they do. You have to have energy for movement and then also to keep warm. You get lots more tired in the cold.

hahah! Considering that I am naturally low on energy for movement in the winter, it makes it that much harder to keep energy up in the cold! LOL

Crazy busy weekend of family. Not feeling ready for it yet but here we go. Slept 90 minutes late today and now need coffee.
Have a great day.

Hope that the coffee got ya going! Did you have fun with the family?

 

[vickyday]

Quick in and out. Im up late and need to get ready to leave for church in an hour. I'll be back later today, hopefully.
Have a good day!

 

[LSlycord]

Is it a lot of snow this early in the season for you, too? NJ doesn't typically get snow this often in December. Wonder if that is happening all over

Yes...we don't get this kind of snow in November and December. And frankly, I don't need it this soon!

I am trying to figure out some fun/active ways to teach the solstice. I found a game online that I used to teach the Equinox last year. It has the kids Orbit (walk in a circle), Rotate (spin), Tilt, and Equinox (freeze) to mimic the Earth's path-- (and BINGO! I figured out how to adapt it for the Solstice. Solstice means "sun standing still" in Latin. All I need to do is replace the word Equinox with Solstice. We can do the game first, then I'll pass out the flashlights and balls to represent the earth/sun and they can experiment with the light's rays. Sweet!!! And now you got to witness my mental processes making my plans. I gather bits of information, wrangle with them inmy head and it --sometimes -- comes together.)

I love this. You just planted an idea in my head! I've been trying to think of meaningful things to do with the kids. Wavy and I have been talking about why the sun is in a different spot each morning and how it has to do with the way the earth moves. I can actually steal a bunch of your stuff!

 

[LSlycord]

Quick in and out. Im up late and need to get ready to leave for church in an hour. I'll be back later today, hopefully.
Have a good day!

You have a good day too Vicky.

 

[BoatLady]

Last nights party was so much fun. Fabulous food, some great wine, fun games, secret Santa surprises and lots of friends laughing. We walked over to our friends house and back last night almost midnight. My knee and foot where hurting so I looked only to find the it quite swollen. I didn't do anything that I can remember. Last night in bed the swelling didn't really go down so I am in the recliner with my feet elevated. This worries me a little.

@faerywings How nice that your son has the same interests as you. It's so special. You can put your heads together for projects.
Your poor dog having to go out and drag you out in the snow/cold I'm sure she feels bad. I wish you were here to feed Jimmie he is pretty amazing. He actually follows me in the backyard, he will come right up on the patio too. Everyone loves him

@LSlycord I bet the snow is pretty but cleaning it up gets old fast. I guess the move plan for your daughter is working out with a few changes.

Got to go get my leg elevated Ill try to come back later

 

[bcgal00]

Good morning ladies. Both parties were a success. Today I will go swimming and stretch out the muscles and then come home to get the dogs ready to go to get their santa pics taken. A quick grocery shop and then I can come home to mostly relax (still need to put away a few party things) and looking forward to spending a quiet night binging a show. I'll get together with my friend to organize our Xmas dinner, not such a big group, just 10 of us, with a few friends dropping by to visit throughout the day.

Here's a pic of our gang. I have made some great friends here in our little town.

 

[vickyday]

Last nights party was so much fun. Fabulous food, some great wine, fun games, secret Santa surprises and lots of friends laughing. We walked over to our friends house and back last night almost midnight. My knee and foot where hurting so I looked only to find the it quite swollen. I didn't do anything that I can remember. Last night in bed the swelling didn't really go down so I am in the recliner with my feet elevated. This worries me a little.

@faerywings How nice that your son has the same interests as you. It's so special. You can put your heads together for projects.
Your poor dog having to go out and drag you out in the snow/cold I'm sure she feels bad. I wish you were here to feed Jimmie he is pretty amazing. He actually follows me in the backyard, he will come right up on the patio too. Everyone loves him

@LSlycord I bet the snow is pretty but cleaning it up gets old fast. I guess the move plan for your daughter is working out with a few changes.

Got to go get my leg elevated Ill try to come back later

I hope the elevation helps the swelling today, Debby!

 

[vickyday]

Good morning ladies. Both parties were a success. Today I will go swimming and stretch out the muscles and then come home to get the dogs ready to go to get their santa pics taken. A quick grocery shop and then I can come home to mostly relax (still need to put away a few party things) and looking forward to spending a quiet night binging a show. I'll get together with my friend to organize our Xmas dinner, not such a big group, just 10 of us, with a few friends dropping by to visit throughout the day.

Here's a pic of our gang. I have made some great friends here in our little town.

Just like @BoatLady Debby's picture of her group.....this one looks dangerous, too, Rae!

 

[LSlycord]

Last nights party was so much fun. Fabulous food, some great wine, fun games, secret Santa surprises and lots of friends laughing. We walked over to our friends house and back last night almost midnight. My knee and foot where hurting so I looked only to find the it quite swollen. I didn't do anything that I can remember. Last night in bed the swelling didn't really go down so I am in the recliner with my feet elevated. This worries me a little.

It sounds like a marvelous time! Sorry about your leg swelling. Hope keeping off it today and keeping it elevated is doing the trick!

@LSlycord I bet the snow is pretty but cleaning it up gets old fast. I guess the move plan for your daughter is working out with a few changes.

Your memory of snow is perfect Debby. So pretty when it is falling...so ugly when having to clean it up. @faerywings, I just read that we have had 19 inches of snowfall so far this winter season (at the airport which is about 5 miles from here). Normally we would have had 6 inches. 3 times as much!!! Good grief!

Good morning ladies. Both parties were a success. Today I will go swimming and stretch out the muscles and then come home to get the dogs ready to go to get their santa pics taken.

That is just the coolest thing that you have met all of these friends. Very nice!

 

[BoatLady]

@bcgal00 Great photo of your gang...we are so lucky to have such a wonderful group of friends.

@faerywings Your solstice game sounds like the kids would enjoy it. Your brain does amazing things for your programs.

@BrightEyes your homemade enchiladas sound delicious you are giving me an idea for a dinner this week I get in a rut making the same things.

We went to a local antique shop today so I could walk a little but my foot ankle and leg swelled up again. I guess I will call my surgeon tomorrow to see if it's normal. I guess I will try sleeping on my recliner because I can get leg up higher than the bed.
Going to heat up left over beef stew...so easy.

 

[bcgal00]

@BoatLady Hope you get the swelling down. Do you use pillows to elevate in bed? I do and it helps. My ankles/feet swell b/c of my bp pills but propping up in bed at night gets the swelling down the next morning, then it repeats...on and on.