Have A Safe And Happy New Year's Eve

December 31, 2015

Good morning.  The sun is shining, the rain has stopped (it was just a light rain) and a lot of the ice has melted in our yard.  What a pretty day to end the year.  Enjoy the day folks.  You'll never see this day again.  When the clock strikes midnight tonight, a brand new year will begin.

I just took a short break.  My little birds were at my door, letting me know that they needed food.  So, I took out some bread, peanuts, bird seed, and bread with peanut butter for everyone.  (the squirrels too)   As I look out now, there is a chickadee, a tufted titmouse and a sparrow all enjoying the peanut butter bread.  This makes my eyes happy.

I thought I would have some fun so I went on-line looking for a photo of New Year's Eve, 1939.  Here's a photo of the crowd gathered in Times Square (New York) that night to cheer the new year in together.  I was almost two months old.

While I was searching, I found another interesting photo.  This was New Year's Eve the year before, 1938.  Can you guess who is behind the Mickey Mouse mask?

If you guessed the FBI Director, J. Edward Hoover, then you were absolutely correct.  Maybe he was camera shy?

While I was poking around on the internet, I also learned that I was born on a Saturday.  Then I read the poem, "Monday's Child."  This explains my work traits, which I have passed along to my children.  What day were you born on?

I'm looking out my door, and now there is a chickadee and a downy woodpecker sharing the peanut butter bread treat.  Mankind could learn so much from our feathered friends.

Folks, I have to tell you that my little Pogo has been having a wonderful time with his new chair.  He spends half the night sleeping on it, and the other half sleeping on his sofa.  He is such a happy little guy with his own little kingdom.

Today I'm enjoying a NCIS marathon on TV.  I can't believe I missed so many episodes.  It's a great way to see the year out.  Also, my hand is starting to feel much better now, so maybe I'll start crocheting a bit  again. 

Folks, if you party tonight, please don't drink if you are driving.  Take public transportation, call a friend or hire a driver.  I'm hoping to see all of you back here in the New Year. 

Now I think I'll go play with my little guy.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous New Year's Eve day and night.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  SEE YOU IN 2016!

Hugs, Edna B.

A Big Box Arrives For Pogo

December 30, 2015

Good morning.  I'm posting a bit late this morning, but I had to pay the bills first.  Now that they are all out in the mail, I can have some play time.  It's rather cold here and my whole drive way (parking lot) looks like an ice skating rink.  I guess Old Man Winter found us. 

Well our big news here is that an elf showed up at our front door yesterday with a huge box for Pogo.  Yup, you guessed it.  Inside the box was Pogo's new chair.  It's actually quite nice, and it's built rather well.  The fabric is called blue denim, and it has short wooden feet.  Pogo can hop up on it easily.

 

I put a couple of his fuzzy blankets on the chair, and Pogo tried it out.  I guess he likes it because he slept part of the night on it. 

 

 



No more furniture though.  We made a nice spot for the chair, but there's no more room for extra furniture.  I do think that Pogo is happy with what he has.  This makes my heart smile.

 

It doesn't seem possible, but after today, there is only one more day left in this year.  Beginning at midnight tomorrow night, we'll be starting a brand new year.  It seems as if these past twelve months have just flown by.  Although, I suppose a lot of it has to do with being retired with no special demands on my time. 

 

Did anyone start a "2015" jar earlier this year?  Remember?  We were to put a slip with an event or happening written on it into the jar throughout the year.  Then at the end of the year, we could easily look back at everything that happened during the year.  I made a jar, and tried to keep it current.  Tomorrow night I'll open the jar. 

 

It's almost lunch time now, so I think I'll see if there is something tasty in the refrigerator for my little Pogo.  He's been waiting patiently by my side for his lunch.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day. 

 

Hugs, Edna B.

The Snow Cometh And The Snow Goeth

December 29, 2015

Good morning.  Well, it snowed all through the night, and now it is raining and turning all the pretty snow to slush.  Now if we can just keep the temps up above the freezing mark, this is all just fine.  Some of this snow came down as frozen pellets.  At one time, during the night, I could hear it bouncing off the air conditioner.  Ping. Ping. Ping. Ping.

During the night, I got up and took a photo through both doors, and then I took another one this morning.  Needless to say, the one I took during the night did not come out so good.  Gosh, if the snow had come down as fast as it is raining now, we'd have a whole lot more snow.

Oh my goodness!!  One of Santa's elves just left a huge box on our front porch.  Grandson Stephen went out and carried the box in.  Oh boy, oh boy, it's Pogo's new chair.  Oh my gosh, what a beauty!  And it is made like a really nice piece of furniture.  It even has round wooden legs on it.  I'll have to take photos later on.  Right now it is sitting in the kitchen, still wrapped in vinyl.

Last evening there was a little nip in the air so I decided to wear a pair of my new fuzzy socks.  Goodness, these are toasty!  Hmmm, I'm surprised that Pogo didn't commandeer them.

Today, I have a QP for you.  This one is light with a bit of whimsy.  I think I'll start the new year's QP's this way too.  Enjoy.

Here is your download link:
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Today is looking like another quiet day here.  No sunshine means no energy.  So, I think I'll start putting away some of our new things to make room for Pogo's chair.  Plus, I cleaned out my refrigerator early this morning, so now there's a sink full of dishes waiting to be washed.  Oh joy!

Well, I think I'll get started on today's projects so that I get Pogo's new chair set up.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantastic day.

Hugs, Edna B.

I'm Taking A Quiet Day Today

December 28, 2015

Good morning.  It's feeling wintry today, with much cooler temps, but at least the sun is shining.  Tonight though, we are expecting snow, then by morning it should turn to rain for the daytime.  Well, that's what the forecaster says.  We'll have to wait and see.

As I watch the news and the Weather Channel, the storms across the country seem to be getting worse and worse.  So far this month, at least two dozen people have died because of these storms.

 I'm thinking that the climate change has something to do with all these wicked storms.  In all my years, I don't remember us ever having this many destructive storms.  Nowadays, it seems as though the storms just never stop.

It's very quiet here.  I had planned to go out this morning to do a couple of errands but we'll see.  I don't seem to have a lot of energy this morning.  Maybe later.  Yesterday was a fun day, as DIL Janet, Pogo and I went to visit my Aunt Lucy.  We had a wonderful visit.  On the way home, we picked up take out food, which we ate when we got back here.  Pogo took a nice long nap after he ate, and Janet and I had a really nice visit.

I did not take any photos last night.  Instead, I put the lights out right after supper and went to sleep.  This morning, I did my best to stay in bed as long as possible.  I guess all the hubbub of the last few days has finally caught up with me. 

Oh gosh, I just got a call from my orthopedic doctor's office.  They were calling to cancel my upcoming appointment with him, and to ask me if I wanted an appointment with another doctor.  I really don't do well with change though.  The lady did give me the phone number to where my doctor is moving his practice.  So now I will call there to see if I can reschedule with my old doctor. 

I do have a photo to share with you this morning.  I took this photo the day before Christmas, while I was at Walmart.  This shows one of the items being displayed near the registers.  I couldn't believe that people were buying OFF!  But look at all the empty sleeve holders.   I wonder where all the mosquitos were.  We don't normally get any around here in the winter.

Well, it's getting close to noon so I think I'd best see about making some lunch for Pogo.  He's been dropping hints for a while now.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe, and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Time To Scoop Up The QP's Before They Are Retired

December 27, 2015

Good morning.  It's early, so it's not daylight yet.  (6:41 a.m.)   I've just spent quite a bit of time going through all my posts to expire all the QP download links through November.  I will leave all of December up through the first week in January, then I have to delete those links too. 

I will be getting ready to have these last six months printed into a blog book, and I don't want the links in the printed book. There will be twelve QP's in all for December.  If you want them be sure to get them by January 9th.  The dates are:  December 01, 03, 04, 07, 09, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25 and 29.

Pogo and I got so many beautiful gifts that I'll be taking photos for a while.  Here's a photo of Pogo, wearing a new shirt while he sits by the door waiting for Joe to come home.  Sad to say, Joe was gone for two days, and Pogo was not happy about it.

My friend Andrea made a book featuring some of her beautiful digital bird art.  Gosh, Andrea, this is beautiful.  (this is the front cover)

Plus she made a couple of beautiful art prints of  (1) Pogo dreaming of his steak supper, and  (2) Pogo and Izzi (her doggie) singing Christmas carols.  I absolutely love love love these!

Yesterday another package arrived with two more beautiful gifts.  Oh my, I am so blessed.  Speaking of blessed, my handsome little fellow is standing by the refrigerator and barking at me.  haha.  He hasn't done this before.  I'm thinking that he is looking for his breakfast.  My goodness, he is becoming quite macho!

My living room is quite chaotic, but that's okay.  I'll wait a couple more days, then little by little, I'll start putting things away.  I like to keep the Christmasy look for a few days.

Now I think I'll go feed my little guy.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY

December 25, 2015

Good morning, and what a beautiful morning it is!!  Oh me, oh my!  I hope all of you have a fantabulous Christmas.  Pogo and I certainly are!  Before I tell you about last night and this morning, I have a super fun story to share with you.

Joe and I went to Walmart yesterday morning to pick up a few groceries.  I was in the check out line, and just starting to put my groceries on the counter when I noticed that the man behind me only had one item.  I told him to go ahead of me, and I pulled my groceries back a bit.  He thanked me and wished me a Merry Christmas. 

Then I noticed the young mother and her four children who were now behind me.  The kids ranged from about three to ten, and were very well behaved.  As I turned back to the counter, I noticed that I was face to face with the candy display.  I asked the mother if the children were allergic to chocolate and she said no.  Then I spied the Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.  I asked if the kids were allergic to peanuts and again she said no. 

I grabbed a bunch of the Reese's and paid for them. Then I gave them to the young mother and told her they were for the children.  Well, you should have seen those little faces light up.  While I was paying for my groceries, I heard lots of laughter behind me and I turned to see what was so much fun.  The young mother said that the children were happy and now they wanted to buy me a present too. 

Oh gosh!  I looked at the youngest girl, and said "Oh no Sweetie.  Santa Claus called me this morning and asked me to give these to you if I saw you shopping here with your mommy.  He will bring me some later.  The little girl's eyes were big as she spoke with a sort of awed whisper "Really?"   Oh my, do I have to tell you how super fantabulous that made me feel? 

Next I learned, that later in the day, my SIL Eddie was outside talking with a neighbor.  The man was saying that he managed to get each of his kids (four of them) a Fire tablet, but now he didn't have any money left to buy them new undies and socks.  Eddie took the neighbor shopping, bought a big bag full of undies and things for the kids and wished him a Merry Christmas.   Any wonder why I'm so proud of my kids? 

Last evening, Deanne, Eddie, Kevin and Jasmine came by and we had so much fun playing with a new toy that DIL Janet had given me.  Every year she brings me a new Christmas musical toy.  Later, Pogo and I went to bed in hopes that Santa would be here soon.  Here's Pogo on his little sofa, all snuggled under his new fuzzy blanket.

Around 1:30 a.m., I heard the sound of tiny hooves on my roof.  YUP YUP!  Santa was here!  He tiptoed in, so as not to wake Pogo, and we had a nice chat while he enjoyed a cup of cocoa and a slice of the Cranberry Bread that daughter Deanne had made for me.  He couldn't stay long though, and soon he and the reindeer were on their way again.  Gosh!  I just love that man!!

I tried, but I just couldn't get back to sleep.  So finally I got up and opened a few of my presents.  One of them was a beautiful new tea mug with a box of lemon tea bags.  So, I made a cup of lemon tea to enjoy with a slice of my cranberry bread.  Yum Yum!  Now I could fall asleep for a while.

Soon though, the excitement got to me, and I decided to open the rest of my presents.  Oh my!  Folks, there were just so many beautiful gifts.  When I finished opening all of them, all I could do was sit here with a dumb smile on my face and tears in my eyes as I looked at all the gifts.  Everything is so beautiful. 

Soon, Pogo woke up and opened one of his presents.  Oh boy, was he ever happy!  It was a handmade fuzzy blanket, and he sniffed every inch of it before we put it on his sofa.  Here's my handsome little guy.  Doesn't he look happy??

I will have to take photos of everything after Pogo is finished opening all of his presents.  After he ate his breakfast, he curled up on his new blanket and is now sleeping peacefully.  Just looking at him, so happy and content,  makes my heart puff up!

Okay, enough of my babble.  I have one more Christmas QP for your collection.  It features a very happy snowman showing off his Christmas candy cane. 

Here is your download link:
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Now I'm going to nap for a little while until Pogo is ready to open the rest of his presents.  Then I have some thank you notes to write.  I'm wishing Y'all a peaceful, beautiful day filled with love.

Hugs, Edna B.

Santa Claus Is Coming Tonight

December 24, 2015

Good mornimg.  It's cloudy here, but warm.  It was in the 50's all through the night (and raining), and today will be near 70F degrees.   After tomorrow, it will start to cool down a bit.  Am I complaining?  Absolutely not!!  I'm sure we'll get clobbered sooner or later with a bunch of weather, but for now it is nice.

I got the nicest surprise in my mail this morning.  A Christmas card from a blogger friend.  I took my laptop out to show it to Joe.  Wow, what a huge smile it put on his face!  Judy, I love it.  Thank you so much.  May you be blessed with all the joys of this Christmas season.

Well, last evening, DIL Janet came by and we had a wonderful evening.  For supper, I cooked Pogo a hamburger and Janet and I had chicken pot pie.  After supper, we exchanged gifts.  Oh wowee!  She spoils Pogo and me so!   Pogo got a new fuzzy blanket, which he curled up in right away.  I got a whole bag full of goodies including my own fuzzy blanket.  You know Pogo and I slept all through the night wrapped up in our new fuzzy blankets.

I'm watching the Weather Channel, and the news is just wicked.  You know, it's only been Winter for a few days and already we are up to "Winter Storm Goliath."   Alphabetically, that's seven winter storms already.  Gosh, I hope that's not an insight to the rest of the Winter. 

The tornadoes are the scariest.  Last night, some folks only got seconds for a warning, and the next thing you know, their homes and all their belongings were gone.  God bless these folks for having the strength to stay and rebuild.  I don't know if I could do that.  Maybe when I was younger, but now?  I just don't know.

I dug into my photo archives for a photo of our Amaryllis in bloom.  This photo was taken when the plant was new, and still not very tall.  This year, it has bloomed so much that it doesn't have any blooms left in it for this Christmas.  This was the only time I saw one of these plants bloom while it was still short.

Today my hand and arm are not quite so sore.  As long as I don't try to use them much.  The hand still makes me say Ouch!  But it hurts a bit less.  Joe and I are going grocery shopping in a little while to pick a few things.  Let's see how the hand does at the market. 

I got an email this morning from a friend, with a link to a Christmas poem.  It was absolutely moving, and I passed it along to my friends and family.  I'll put the link here so that you can enjoy it too.

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=sUGOjNsE4aY

Santa Claus comes tonight folks.  Put the kiddies to bed early, and don't forget to leave out a drink and a snack for Santa and his reindeers.  Tonight, I will enjoy a cup of cocoa with Santa, and I've set aside nine bowls of water and nine apples for his reindeer.  Something tells me that Pogo will sleep right through this visit.

Now it's time for me to get dressed, and ready to go grocery shopping.   I hope everyone gets what they wished for this Christmas.  Pogo and I wish all of you a Blessed and Merry Christmas.  I'll stop by in the morning with another QP for you.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.  Ho Ho Ho!

Hugs, Edna B.

Just One More Day Till Christmas Eve!!

December 23, 2015

Good morning.  Today is cloudy and quite foggy in places.  Temps will be in the mid 50's today, and low 50's tonight.  Tomorrow will be near 70.  I'm not complaining, I love it!

Can you believe?  Tomorrow night is Christmas Eve!  The TV is playing Gene Autry singing Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer.  It brings back beautiful memories of Christmas when I was just a kid. 

I'm not going to type a long post today because my hand is rather sore.  I'm pretty sure it is just my arthritis acting up, and it will hopefully calm down soon.  I do want to give you another Christmas QP.   This one features Santa Claus himself as he places toys beneath the Christmas tree.

Here is your download link:
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SIL Eddie did not come by on Monday, but he did come by yesterday and vacuumed for me.  Thank you Eddie.  I really do appreciate this. 

Before I go, let me share with you this note for Santa.  (courtesy of the web)

Now I'm going to curl up in my lounge chair and give my hand a rest.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Oh Dear, I Have A New Ouchy

December 22, 2015

Good morning,  It isn't raining yet, and it's 51F degrees.  Today's temp is supposed to get up close to 60 degrees.  Tomorrow will be more of the same, and Thursday will be close to 70 degrees.  The rain is supposed to start later this afternoon, with more coming tomorrow.
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According to the Weather Channel, we have some snow forecast for next Monday night.  Now that, I could do without.  Ah well, I'm enjoying what we do have while we have it.

Yesterday, I must have done too much moving things around and putting them away.  Somewhere along the way, I hurt my hand.  I don't know when it happened, but oh boy, I surely do feel it.  It feels as though I've broken a blood vessel in the forefinger on my right hand (of course, it had to be the right hand!) and it is quite painful.  By last night, the pain was going all the way up my arm to my shoulder.  It's most likely just the carpal tunnel and/or the arthritis acting up.

Needless to say, I was not able to do any crocheting last night.  Now as I type, I have to keep stopping to rub my hand and arm.  It doesn't heal it, but it does make it feel better for a minute or two.  Drats, drats and more drats!!!  I have so many things to do and this is slowing me down. 

I guess today I'll just go through a lot of magazines and take my name and address off (and out of) them.  Then it's off to the recycle bin with them.  That will probably be the extent of today's fun.  I had a few things to put away, but they can wait until my hand doesn't hurt so much.  Maybe tomorrow I'll do another big batch of shredding.  We'll see.

Yesterday, I got a delivery from Amazon.  It was my new Christmas tree.  The first thing I did was to take it out of the box and plug it in.  Woo Hoo!  All the little optic lights lit up.  Next, I put it back in it's box to be put away for next Christmas. 

Shortly after my tree arrived, I got another Amazon delivery.  Goodness, they are very quick about getting their orders out.  I quickly opened the box, and oh my!!  Inside the box was a gorgeous calendar featuring little Yorkies, and a slip saying that this was a gift.  Anne, the calendar is just beautiful.  I love it.  Thank you so much. 

The calendar is really square, but this is how my photo came out.  Still, the tiny Yorkies are just darling.  Almost makes me want another one.  However, I don't think that Pogo would want to give up any of his space.  He rules the roost around here, and he's quite happy with that.

In my email yesterday, I got a gift from Amazon.  They are giving me a free digital HD copy of Kung Fu Panda.  Hmmm, I'm not sure what I did to deserve this.  Thank you Amazon.

Well that's about all the happenings around here.  I need to give my hand and arm a rest now.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

It's Beginning To Look Like Christmas Around Here

December 21, 2015

Good morning.  Today is sunny and cool with a brisk breeze.   It's 42F degrees at the moment, but will work it's way up to the low 50's in a few hours.  This whole week will be fairly warm.  It should start raining tonight, and continue to rain for the next couple of days.  But then it will clear up and be gorgeous for Christmas.  I can definitely dig it!!

Yesterday, I put the rest of the packages and gifts on the shelf with my Christmas Angel, and took some photos.  I think it looks quite nice even if I don't have a tree set up.

I spent a few hours finishing up the last of my wrapping and bagged it all up.  After the football game, Deanne and Eddie came by for a visit and took all the bundles home with them.  Today, I will have to start putting all the wrapping stuff away. 

SIL Eddie said that he will come by after work and give me a hand with the vacuuming and whatever else I need help with.  This will be a blessing because vacuuming makes it difficult for me to breathe.  So today I will move a few things out of the way to make it easy for him to vacuum. I'm terrible.  I like to have all my stuff near me when I am working on projects.  (yarn, bags of started projects, etc.)   It's not really necessary though, so today I will put a lot of it away.

Today I went into my photo archives to find two photos that I took (at work) on this very day.  (Dec. 21, 2012)   It was raining that day until mid afternoon.  While looking out the kitchen window, I spotted a little Dark Eyed Junco enjoying a bath in a puddle made from the water coming out of the drain pipe.

My next big project will be to start getting my paper work in order for my taxes.  This is definitely not my funnest thing to do.  However, I do want to get it finished and out of the way before it is time for me and Pogo to go on vacation.  I just called the accountant, and made an appointment for mid February to bring all my information to him. 

Last evening, I was finally able to get in touch (by phone) with a cousin, and we had a nice long chat getting caught up on each other's life happenings.  I've been trying to reach her, but her phone was broken.  (I just found this out).  Yesterday, she had to go out and buy a new phone. 

I had sent her a Christmas card, but it came back undeliverable.  It seems I left her apartment number off her address and the mailman was not familiar with her name so he sent the card back to me.  At least I feel better now knowing that she is okay and has not moved away.  She and I both love bingo, so I'm hoping that after the Holidays, we'll be able go to a game together.  That will be fun.

While I was talking with my cousin, she mentioned how good her cleaning lady was, and gave me the name of the agency that the woman works for.  Today I'll call them to find out what it will cost for me to get a cleaning lady too.  Hmmm, now wouldn't that be a big help for me!!!

Well, that's about all the news for today.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a super beautiful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

It's Time To Start Planning For Florida

December 20, 2015

Good morning.  I'm up early this morning.  It's not daylight yet, but we've already had our breakfast.  Well, at least I did.  Pogo isn't touching his so I'll take a moment here to wrap it and put it in the refrigerator for later.

I'm back.  Some mornings he wants his food right away, and others he waits till later in the morning.  No biggie.  That's what the fridge is for.  To keep the food fresh till His Majesty is ready for it.

On Friday, Joe and I did our grocery shopping and I picked up six huge bags of dog and cat food, and some assorted packages of treats.  Yesterday morning, we went to our local Ace Hardware store and dropped off all the pet food and treats.  In a couple of days, all the donations will be delivered to local animal shelters. 

Yesterday, well I can't think of much of anything that I accomplished yesterday.  I was busy, just not doing anything spectacular.  Well, one thing that I did was to go outside and take a photo of our Christmas rose.  This gorgeous little pink blossom is growing on my pink rose tree. 

I think the HDR setting on my cell phone is turned on because the rose is actually a bit lighter than it shows here.  I'll have to check my phone.  But isn't it a pretty gift?  There's also another tiny bud on another branch.

I found another interesting crochet pattern on the web that I'd like to try once I've finished the projects that I'm working on.  This one is a prayer shawl.  Sorry the picture isn't all that great, but you can see how pretty it is.

I've set up my Christmas Angel, and placed some of the gifts around it.  Later this morning, I'll finish putting the rest of the things with it, and then I'll take some photos.  DIL Janet bought a cute new Christmas outfit for Pogo.  I'll try it on him later and take some photos of that too. 

My next big project is to start looking up flights for our upcoming trip to Florida.  Jet Blue had some fabulous fares a few days ago, but they were only good if you booked during that two day period.  Not knowing who was traveling when with me and Pogo, I could not take advantage of the super low prices.  I'll have to get definite time schedules from Joe and Janet. 

Today I want to wrap a few last gifts, then Pogo and I can just settle back and wait for Santa Claus to get here.   Oooh, I forgot to mention, but yesterday I did pick up three presents for next Christmas and one birthday present.  These have all been put away in my gift drawer. 

Well that's about all my news for this morning.  Before I go, I do have another Christmas QP for you.  This one features an old time Father Christmas and a few of Nature's little ones who waiting for his arrival.

Here is your download link:
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Now I'm going to head for the kitchen and make a fresh cup of coffee.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

It's National Ugly Sweater Day

December 18, 2015

Good morning.  Today is gray and damp with bits of rain every now and then.  It's a super good day to wear your ugly Christmas sweater.  After all, it is National Ugly Sweater Day.  I must say though, that most of the ugly sweaters that I've seen so far are rather pretty or fun looking.

Well, about the best thing that I did yesterday was to find a nice chair for Pogo.  However, Santa said that he might not be able to get it here until after Christmas.  His elves won't be able to start making it until close to Christmas.  He did promise to bring it as soon as the elves were finished with it. 

So, on that note, I went on-line and found two really nice blankets that I ordered for Pogo, so that he has presents to open on Christmas morning.  After all, no respectful fur baby can ever have too many fuzzy blankets.  At least that's what Pogo tells me. 

I guess I'm not the only person to have problems with getting packages safely to their destinations.  This has nothing to do with Aunt Lucy's package.  The reason for not leaving her package had to do with safety, and she did finally get it.

One year I sent three large boxes to my son in Florida.   After two weeks of them not showing up at my son's house, I went to the Post Office to find out what happened to the boxes.  The first thing the Post Master told me was that most likely I had the wrong zip code on my boxes and that was why they had not been delivered.

I promptly showed him my receipt from when I mailed the boxes.  The zip code for every package you mail shows up on your receipt.  Had my zip code been wrong, the post master would have caught it at the time I was mailing the boxes and fixed it.

A few days later, all three boxes showed up at my son's house.  My zip code had been blocked out on all of the boxes, and now a hand-written zip code was on each box.  There is a hard lesson here.  Always, always get your receipt, (and save it) and scotch tape over the address and zip code  on your packages.  I even tape over the return address.  It's not fool proof, but it sure does help.

I did finish up the pink blanket yesterday.  Actually, I put a couple extra rows on it.  When I finish the baby cocoon, I'll probably make another little blanket.  One can always use an extra baby blanket.  Here's a peek at the pink blanket.

Today, I have another Christmas QP for you.  I have such fun making them.  This one features a couple of snow folks sharing their sweet berry bush with a little squirrel.  Have fun with it.

Here is your download link:
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Now I'm going to see about getting a few things done here.  The next few hours will fly by, and soon it will be time to go grocery shopping.  So, till Sunday, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tis The Busiest Week Of The Year

December 17, 2015

Good morning.  Woo Hoo!  Only seven more days and Santa will be here.  Have you been good all year? 

 

I just couldn't resist posting this adorable cartoon that I borrowed from the web.  Really, I wouldn't tell on you.  Honest.  Even if you don't send me all your oatmeal raisin cookies.  haha.

 

Well, I think I'm on the last row of the pink baby blanket.  It's about the size of a regular baby blanket.  The other blanket (baby print colors) is much bigger, sort of like a mini afghan.  So, I'll finish off this row later today and get back to working on the baby cocoon. 

 

It's been a busy week here, trying to track down a package that I sent to my Aunt Lucy a week ago this past Tuesday.  My post office tracked it to the So. Boston post office, where it was sitting because they did not want to leave it in an unprotected area.  Lucy lives in an apartment building, and just leaving the package on the step or inside the door was not safe. 

 

Each day, I've been trying to have it delivered to my aunt personally, but her schedule and the postal worker's schedule were just not cooperating.  Aunt Lucy volunteers at least twice a week at a facility for the blind.  (She drives herself there and back home.)  Finally, yesterday, one of the postal workers delivered it to her.  Aunt Lucy called last evening, and was all excited about her new afghan that I had made for her. 

 

Lucy (87 years young)  has been making afghans and all sorts of other things for many years, and giving them all away to veterans hospitals, nursing homes, childrens' hospitals, etc.  She hasn't kept any for herself.  Now she has one.  A beautiful lemon yellow afghan. 

 

We have now entered what I think is the busiest week of the year.  Folks everywhere will be scurrying here, there and everywhere to find all those last minute gifts,  Some will be busy with cooking.  All those pies and cakes and cookies that we all love.  Mmmm, can't you just taste them?  And a lot of folks will be travelling to be with family and friends for the Christmas holiday. 

 

Well, I must confess, I already have a few things in my gift drawer for next Christmas.  When I see what I want and the price is right, I get it and put it in the drawer.  That's the easy part.  The hard part is pushing myself to get it all wrapped, tagged and packaged on time. 

 

I had a long chat with a friend of mine the other night, and we were discussing how so many of our friends and family are no longer here with us.  I guess we all tend to think that "there's always a tomorrow" to be with those close to us.  No so.  Today and tomorrow are both gifts.  So while they are here, let your family and friends know how much they mean to you.  Spend time with them.  Some of these moments may have to last us a lifetime.

 

 

Ever hear of thunder sleet?  Well that's what is happening in Burnsville, Minnesota.  That's sleet falling during a thunder and lightning storm.  Wow!  That's as unusual as the thunder snow that we had two or three years back.

 

Folks, don't forget to do something nice for someone in need.  It's easy, and it doesn't hurt.  Yet it can mean the world to someone who has nothing or no one.  Trust me, you'll feel so good about yourself.  Here's another beautiful poster that I borrowed from the web.

 

 

I'm thankful for all that I have, and I'm thankful for all of you.  You make my days so joyful.  On that note, I'm going to go finish that last row on the pink blanket.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a most joyous day.

 

Hugs, Edna B.

Only Fifteen Days Till The New Year

December 16, 2015

Good morning.   Today the sun is shining.  Although the temperature will be a bit cooler, only in the mid 40's, it is still quite nice.  Have you noticed?  There are only fifteen days left in this year.  It's just amazing how quickly this whole year has flown by.

This morning I've been watching a travel station on TV.  The first program was about Taiwan, their teas and ceramic tea pots.  (and other stuff)  Now they are focusing on Delhi and Agra, India.   It is all quite interesting.   This program is called Rudy Maxa's World. 

Gosh, I've got quite tied up in these programs, and neglected my typing here.  Yesterday was a rather quiet day here.  I moved a few dust bunnies around, and put a couple more rows on the pink baby blanket.  All in all, I did not do very much. 

Last evening I thought I might put a few more rows on the blanket, but Pogo had other ideas.  When I pick up my crocheting, he gets on my lap and makes himself comfy in my lap blanket.  At this point, I don't get much done on my crocheting.

I think that I'll set up my Christmas Angel today.  If my new tree should arrive after that, I'll just check to make sure the lights work, and put it away for next year.  Well, maybe.  I'll have to think about this.  But I do think I want the Angel set up.

Later this afternoon, DIL Janet should be coming by.  I haven't seen her for two weeks because she's been sick with a bad cold, and I've missed her.  She loves macaroni and cheese, so that's what I'll make for her supper. 

Sometime today, I need to bring in all the bags that are in the trunk of my car.  I guess I'll have to store them in my bedroom.  Where else?  Tomorrow is food shopping day so I need the space in my car.  I've run out of bows, so I'll have to pick more up when we go shopping.   I'd also like to work on the pink blanket a bit too. 

That's about all my news for this morning.  Before I go, I do have another Christmas QP for you.  This one features some of the beauty of Winter and Nature.  I hope you like it.

Here is your download link:
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Now I'm off to wash the breakfast dishes and do a few things around here.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a magnificent day. 

Hugs, Edna B.

A Bit Of Rain For Us

December 15, 2015

Good morning from gray and soggy New England.  It rained all night here.  It is warm though.  The temp right now is 52F degrees, and will top off around 57 in a couple of hours.  Tomorrow will drop back down in to the mid 40's. 

After the hustle and bustle of the past few days, I feel sort of flat.  I have things to do, but there is no deadline.  Ah well, time to get back to that other stuff - (shhh - housework).  I don't like to say that word out loud. 

I must confess though, I did do a bit of dusting over the weekend.  I suppose I could run the vacuum around a bit today.  After that, I have some crocheting that needs to be worked on.  The "March" baby is due at the very beginning of the month, so I need to finish the baby projects a bit sooner than I had planned.  First babies don't always stick to the schedule. 

I do believe the sun is coming out.  I'm seeing patches of blue  with white clouds in the sky and bits of sunny sparkle on autos going by.  It's going to be another beautiful day.

I found a really cute picture on the web and borrowed it to share with you.  Most folks don't believe that our animals have feelings, but they most certainly do.

On another serious note, here's another image that I borrowed from the web.  It speaks volumes.  It's me, and a lot of you.  Life is short.  If there is something or things that we really want to see or do, we should do it now.  Tomorrow is not guaranteed, it's a gift.

In  the new year, as long as I am healthy enough to get about, Pogo and I are definitely going to go somewhere for a little vacation.  I would prefer it be near the ocean, or at least somewhere near lots of birds and flowers.  Something to look forward to.

That's about all that's happening around here.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Mmmm, Gingerbread Trains. Yummy!

December 14, 2015

Good morning.  Once again, Pogo and I woke up early, had our breakfast and lots of fun play time.  He's been super huggy huggy lately.  Do you suppose he knows that Santa is coming soon?  Right now, he is snuggled up beside me and snoring away.  Gosh, it's such a soothing sound!

Well, yesterday turned out to be quite an interesting, yet fun day.  It all began when I started on the Christmas tree.  I got out all the decorations and made sure all the branches were just right.  Then before I started putting any of the ornaments on the tree, I thought I would plug it in.  Oh boy, surprise surprise.  Nothing lit up.  I unplugged and re-plugged.  Still nothing.  (It's a fiber optic tree)

So now I checked the tips of the tree branches to find the tiny optic bulbs.  Hmmm, I can't find any.   I also noticed that there was a chip in the tree base.  I guess my little tree is broken.  I  took it out to Joe.  After checking it over, he discovered that there was something rattling around inside the base where the wiring is all connected.  Sighhhhhhh.  Bad tree.

I called Amazon, and even though it came from one of their associated companies, they gave me a full refund.  So then I went back on line (Amazon) and ordered me another little tree.  So, for now, Pogo and I have no tree.  We do have a beautiful angel though, and if the tree isn't here soon, I'll set up the angel and place the gifts around her. 

My friend Ellen came by and we had an awesome visit.  She is one of the best people I've ever worked with in the health field.  The other person is my daughter Deanne.   If you have work mates like these two, you are working with the best there is.

Speaking of Deanne, she brought gingerbread kits to Jack and Lilah (Ali's siblings).  Here's a photo of Lilah when she finished building her gingerbread train.  She's definitely enjoying herself, and that train looks yummy!

I also have a photo of my handsome little guy doing what he loves.  Sitting by the door, waiting for Joe to get home from work. 

Yesterday afternoon, I finished packing one of the last two boxes to go out.  Today I will finish the last one and get them both to the Post Office.  According to the news on TV this morning, today is the last day to mail packages for Christmas delivery at the current rates.  I guess that means the rates go up tomorrow.  Phew!  I just made it!!

Here's a photo of two of the last few neck warmers that I finished.   Unfortunately, the red color did not photograph so good.  It should look more of a rosy rouge red. 

Well, that's about all my news for today.  Now I think I'll make myself a cup of hot chocolate and get busy finishing up that last mailer box.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Busy, Busy, Busy.

December 13, 2015

Good morning.  It's very early, 6:21 a.m., but I've been up for more than an hour.  As long as I was awake, I thought I'd get a head start on finishing up my wrapping.  I have the last two boxes to get ready for mailing tomorrow.  Phew!  I'm almost done!

Yesterday I sent a car load of wrapped gifts over to Deanne's house.  Some she will deliver for me, and the rest will go under her tree.  Pretty soon I can pack away all the boxes and wrapping stuff.  I think next year I will have to start all this packing stuff in October, and eliminate this last minute wrapping.

It's been a busy couple of days here.  Friday, Pogo and I went out to do a few errands.  It was such a nice day, and Pogo enjoyed sticking his little nose out the window while the breeze blew in his face.  Later in the afternoon, Joe and I went grocery shopping.

On Saturday, I did a couple more errands, and picked up a couple of last minute things at Walmart.  The trunk in my car is full of stuff for the dwarfs, but I can't bring it in the house yet.  There's just no more room to put anything.  Once the rest of the wrapping stuff is put away, I'll bring those things in and store them in my bedroom till Santa gets here.  Then, I'll help him put them all under the tree in the main part of the house. 

Yesterday, Deanne and Jazzy came by, and Jazzy set up the TV remote on my phone.  Wow, I am becoming so tekky!!   Now I can change stations and volume on the TV with my phone.  Imagine that!   Pretty soon, our phones will even be cooking and going potty for us so that we will never ever have to get up or move about again. 

Ever wonder how space aliens got their funny little shapes?  It's probably because their cell phones did everything for them and they did not get enough exercise for their bodies or their brains.  Makes me wonder if we're all going to end up looking like those little aliens!!  Hmmm, food for thought.

BTW, Jazzy made high honors in school, and Kevin made honors in college.  Can you tell how super proud I am of these kids? 

Last evening, Randi (Ali's mom) sent us another photo of our little Ali wearing another of her pretty outfits.  It's going to be a while before she grows into a lot of her clothes.  Even so, she looks so darn cute in them.

As soon as I finish this post, I'm going to finish decorating my little Christmas tree.   I just haven't had enough time lately to finish everything I start.  I suppose that is a good thing.  At least it will be a while before I start looking like a space alien. haha.

A friend of mine from my work days is stopping by later this morning.  It will be good to visit with her.  We had so many good years working together.  She is a lot younger than me though, so she is still working. 

Well that's all my news for this morning.  But before I go, let me post another Christmas QP for you.  This one features an adorable little snowman trying out his new ski's.  Have fun with it.

Here is your download link:
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Now I'm off to make a new cup of hot coffee, and get my tree decorated.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tis Quite Foggy Here In New England

December 11, 2015

Good morning.  It's quite foggy outside, but I'm sure it will burn off in a while.  We are still enjoying wonderful warm temps, at least for a few more days. 

Well, yesterday's plans fell by the wayside.  I had the "want to," just not the "get up and go."  Some days are like that.  Today is a new day, and maybe we'll get out today.  At least we can keep our inside door open all day so Pogo can see what's going on in the world outside. 

One of the female meteorologists on the Weather Channel is so happy and laughing because she has so many storms to comment about.  In her words, "keep those storms coming, we need more to follow."   Is it me?  Am I the weird one because I can't see any humor in devastating storms?  I'm just waiting for our local forecast, then I'm changing to a different channel.

There must be a hawk in the neighborhood because all my little birds have been missing yesterday and this morning.  We just get the occasional brave little woodpecker at the treat cage.  I realize the hawk has a family to feed too, but I miss my little birds.

I found a wicked cute decorating idea on the web to share with you.  It's such an easy, yet beautiful, way to brighten up your home.

Here's another really super idea that I came across on the web for those chilly nights, or times when your electric power goes out.  It's a make-shift space heater, made from a large plant pot, a couple of bricks and some candles.

Well, the morning is slipping by and I really would like to see about going out for a while.  Before I go, I'd like to share this photo of a Walmart shopper that I borrowed from the web.  The look on the face of the man on the left is just too funny.  What can I say?  It takes all kinds!

Now that I've put a smile on your face, I'm going to get dressed and see about getting to JoAnn's Fabric store.  I need some tiny findings to finish a charm that I am making.  So, till Sunday, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

A Rather Busy Day

December 10, 2015

Good morning everybody.  Well, yesterday certainly was a different sort of day.  First it started with the wicked phone call telling me that my computer had been hacked (most likely a bit of nonsense).  After posting a very short post, I then got busy with my wrapping and packing.  After lunch, I started backing up the files on my laptop.  Would you believe, this took until 8 p.m. last night to finish?

I did contact my phone company (Comcast) and explained the problem phone call.  I also told them about all the strange phone calls that I get from all over the country.  I answer the phone and no one is there so I hang up. 

The Comcast representative proceeded to tell me that because I have not installed their home security system, he would transfer me to someone who would make an appointment for me to sit down with someone from the company who would help me choose a security system for my house.  ???????????  What exactly does this have to do with the strange phone calls??????

Next, they switched me to a person who would explain call screening and help me to get it set up.  Basically, she told me to dial a certain number, then follow the prompts.  Wow!!  I'm wondering why the previous person could not read that same line to me.  The bottom line is that they do not help you the customer.  You activate this process, and then whenever you get a call that you don't want to be able to call you, you type in the number and press a button.  Whoop de do!!!

Folks, as soon as I can come up with a better way of getting internet and favorite TV stations delivered to my home, Comcast will be a thing of the past.  They are expensive, and not really "customer friendly." 

On a bright note, Joe and Pogo and I made another trip to the Post Office yesterday afternoon with a second load of boxes and packages.   Unfortunately for me, I keep coming across something that I missed getting into a box or package.  Oh well, I do my best, and the left overs will go back into the gift draw for next year. 

Today, I think Pogo and I will go out to do a couple of errands.  I still need a couple of small things to finish off my last few packages.   It's going to be warm outside, so it's a good day to get out for a bit.  Actually, I can shut off the heat for the next few days (during the day). 

I dug into my photo archives for a couple of birdie shots that I took while I was still working.  I love cardinals.  Their colors are so beautiful.  See if you agree.

That's about all the excitement around here.  In the evening, I've been working on my crochet projects.  A pink baby blanket. a couple of neck warmers and the baby cocoon.  The little Christmas tree is almost up.  Just a couple more things to move, then the decorations will be brought out and put on the tree. 

Well, that's all the news for today.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.