Sayonara 2019

December 31, 2019

Good morning.  Well, we've made it to the end of another decade.  Temps are in the upper thirties, and the sun may even peek in on us this afternoon for a bit.  Let's hope the weather stays decent through tomorrow.  I'm praying for everyone who will be on the road tonight to get home safely.

Pogo and I are wishing everyone a Very Happy New Year of good health and happiness.  Normally we would sit in and attempt to watch the ball to drop at midnight on TV.  Usually, we would fall asleep just before it happened.  Tonight will be a bit different.  I'm hoping that I can stay awake all evening. 

Remember I said that I bought myself a little laptop for Christmas?  Well, it came and it's cute.  Of course, I have not a clue about how to use it.  It's a little alien with Windows 10.  Actually, it's the Microsoft Surface Go 10.

However, I ordered a book from Amazon that can possibly help me to learn how to use it.  It came yesterday, and from looking through it, I'm thinking it is not so easy to understand.  Some of it appears to be simple enough to understand, but other parts of it seem to be written for someone who knows what they are doing.  Thank goodness I have two months to learn my way around this little cutie.

Once I get fairly comfortable with my (new) big laptop and this little one, I can clean out and get rid of my old ones.  Actually, I can get around in my big laptop enough to do what I need to do.  There's still a lot that I need to learn, but I'm getting there. 

The little laptop is what I will take with me on vacation, and when I am sitting out on my porch in the good weather.  So I will concentrate on learning my way around that one now.  Between that and my crochet projects, I'm going to be busy for a while.

One thing I need to learn is where does deleted email go.  How do I get back a piece of email that I deleted by mistake?  Everything I've read says to go to the folder marked "Trash" and the deleted mails would be there.  However, I don't have a folder marked "Trash" in my email.  If there is one, it's doing a great job of hiding from me. 

Yesterday, I actually did -- would you believe?  Some laundry.  Yup, I finally got motivated to do a couple loads of wash.  There's more waiting to be done, but at least Pogo has a big pile of clean blankets now and I have a new batch of clean clothes.  The rest of the laundry can wait until tomorrow or the day after. 

Well, on that note, I'm going to make myself a fresh cup of coffee and do a bit of blog reading.  So, till next year, Y'all have a fantabulous and safe New Year's Eve.

Hugs, Edna B.

Time Really Is Slipping By Faster

December 30, 2019

Good morning.  It's almost eight o'clock and it is still not very light outside.  Actually, it's a lot lighter than it was twenty minutes ago.  It is raining, so maybe that's why it's so gloomy looking out there.  It seems like most of the country is in for really yucky weather today and tomorrow. 

I'm really hoping that we won't have icy roads tomorrow night.  I don't normally go out on New Year's Eve, but this year I'm making an exception so that I can hear Jazzy sing.  I'm crossing all my fingers and toes that the roads stay good and we all get home safely.

Well, once again I did not stick to my game plan.  Joe was doing laundry yesterday so I decided to do mine today.  What can I say, any excuse is a good excuse not to do something.  I was tired yesterday so I treated myself to a couple naps.  I think my energy will perk up when the temps start to go up and the sun shines warmer.

I found a couple items on Facebook that I thought were worth sharing here.  These are about your pet's health and safety. 

It's hard to fathom, but there are only two days left to this year.  It seems the only part of the year that goes by slowly is the winter.  The cold weather tends to linger.  After reading an article about why it seems that time passes by much quicker as we get older, I find that there is scientific truth to this fact.  I won't go into the details.  (you can look this up on Google)  It was all very technical and confusing to me, but at least now I know that it really is going by faster than it used to.  (to me.)

I was listening to the news this morning, and they were talking about how important it is for folks to get their flu shots.  Did you know that there have been 2200 deaths so far since the end of September from the flu?  This includes both adults and children.  Please, if you didn't get your shot, get it now.  And if you do already have the flu or a bad cold, stay home and don't pass it on to others. 

Now I'm going to do a bit of blog reading.  First I'll put in a load of laundry to make sure I don't talk myself out of it.  hahaha.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B

We're Closing Out The Year With Yucky Weather

December 29, 2019

Good morning.  The sun has been peeking out from behind the clouds and the temperature is 32F degrees.  We'll most likely stay in the thirties today.  What can I say, typical New England weather.  We'll be closing out this year with snow, rain and ice.  Hopefully, no ice for New Year's Eve.

I've been asked about what sort of gifts were inside the prank boxes that I gave to my sons in law.  Each box was different, but they held things such as power banks, a book, a brain teaser puzzle, etc.  All good stuff.

I mentioned before about a new yarn that Herrschner's has, so I took a couple photos from the catalogue.  The first photo shows a new project to make with the yarn, and the second photo shows the colors that the yarn comes in.  I really do want to try making something with this fun looking yarn.

I've been watching the Weather Channel on TV all morning to see what the weather will be for New Year's Eve here in New England.  So far they've elaborated on most of the country, just not much about where I live.  I just turned it off and put on reruns of the Golden Girls.  This is definitely more interesting. 

Pogo got new jammies for Christmas, and he just looks so darn cute in them!  Yesterday afternoon, while I was crocheting a bit, he took a nap.  I just had to take another photo of him. 

Are all fur baby moms like me?  I have hundred of photos of Pogo on my phone.  Somehow I think we are all alike.  Cell phones make it so easy to photograph our beloved fur babies. 

As for my crocheting, I've finally reached the half done mark with the red and black afghan.  I do a few rows on this one, then I do a few rows on another one.  The red and black afghan will be a belated Christmas gift.  The others that I make will be for next Christmas.  Yup, I already have a few things in the gift tote for next Christmas. 

I did not do any of the laundry yesterday, so I think I'll do some of it today.  Well, at least that's the plan.  First, I'm going to do a bit of blog reading.  On that note, I'll take my leave.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sometimes I'm Just A Kid At Heart

December 27, 2019

Good morning.  Tis six o'clock and it's still dark outside.  I had a nice nap yesterday afternoon, so I woke up super early this morning.  The temperature is 33F degrees, and it is supposed to get up into the forties today.  But we are expecting rain all afternoon.  At least that's what my phone weather app says.  This would be a good day for it to be wrong about the rain.

Deanne and I are going to my granddaughter Shanna's house early this evening.  I have afghans that I've made for her and each of my great grandsons, Nick and Carmelo.  The red and black afghan that I'm making is for Shanna's older brother Trio (Gary III). 

I had a lot of fun this Christmas.  While I was looking through some of my many catalogues (way before Christmas)  I came across some prank boxes for wrapping gifts inside.  So I bought two of them, one for my SIL Mac and one for my SIL Eddie.  Here's a photo of the box.  It's not a very good photo but you can get the idea. 

There were directions on the box showing you how to attach this gadget and on the back of the box were instructions on how to hook it up to the water.  There were also lots of hints of how else this unique item could be used.  All of them hilarious. 

When Mac opened his gifts and he got to this box, he obviously thought I must have lost my mind.  It did not strike his fancy so he didn't even open the box.  Later, of course, he did (after being talked into it) and got a nice surprise. 

When Eddie unwrapped his gift, he got the biggest chuckle out of it.  He thought it was rather interesting and thought provoking, if not hilarious, and set it aside to open at home to try to see how it worked.  Deanne and I were laughing so hard we had tears running down our cheeks.  We finally talked him into to opening the box here so that we could see it too.  Aha!  Another big surprise!  Let me tell you, I got my money's worth out of these prank boxes. 

Here are a couple photos of Eddie looking at his box.  The lighting was low because there was light coming in from the door, so I lightened the photos up.  Eddie's reaction was priceless. 

In case anyone is interested, the catalogue was "The Lighter Side Co."  (www.lighterside.com)  Both recipients enjoyed the box and were busy later figuring out who they would re-gift it to.  Sometimes it is fun to be childish for a little while.

Last evening, DIL Janet came by after work.  We had a nice visit and exchanged our Christmas gifts.  I haven't seen her in a while, so this was an especially nice visit.  We had lots of gossip to catch up on. 

I did a bit of crocheting for a while when I first got up this morning.  I put a few more rows on the navy blue afghan.  Now I can't wait to take a photo of this one.  It is soooo pretty!  Just ten more rows and I'll take a photo to share. 

My new Herrschner's yarn catalogue came yesterday, and oh my they have a new yarn that I want to try.  I'll take photos of it to share here.  It's a plush yarn and should make a wicked nice lap blanket. 

Today I really do have to catch up a bit with some laundry.  My laundry basket is full and I have a pile of Pogo's blankets that are wanting to be washed.  This should take most all day to get done.
 
Now I'm going to make some breakfast before starting on this new day.  So, till Sunday, Y'all have a fantabulous weekend.

Hugs, Edna B.

I Am So Blessed

December 26, 2019

Good morning.  Tis a wee bit cool, only 32F degrees, but it should warm up to the upper thirties later today.  Tomorrow should be much warmer.  That will be nice because Deanne, Eddie and I will be going to visit with my granddaughter Shanna and her two young boys in the early evening.  I can't wait! 

Yesterday was such a fun day for Pogo and me.  We were busy trying on new things, playing with new toys and tasting new goodies.  Here's a photo of my handsome little guy showing off his new sweater and new blanket. 

And there were the phone calls and emails from friends and family.  Plus, in the afternoon my grandchildren Kevin and Jazzy and a couple of their friends came by for a visit.  Have I mentioned how blessed I am?

Kevin brought me the cutest stuffed dancing Snoopy dog.  I'll have to take a photo of it later to share.  In the evening, I was browsing the web and noticed that my daughter Audrey had posted a favorite photo of her and I.  Many years ago, she and I had gone to Glamour Shots and had our photos taken.  This was my favorite too.

As I sit here typing, Pogo is looking at me wondering how come he hasn't been able to go out into the house to get his turkey treat.  He's very smart.  Joe has all this week off from work, and Pogo knows this.  He expects to get his treat early in the morning when Joe is home.  He's sitting on the sofa with me and making little snorting noises to get my attention.  hahahahaha.  I guess I'd better let him go out into the house. 

So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

December 25, 2019

Good morning, and Merry Christmas to all of you.  It's a little after 3 a.m. and I thought I would write this post now and then sleep late.  My friend Santa Claus has come and gone, and Pogo is sleeping soundly.  Here is my Christmas Card to wish everyone a wonderful, Blessed day.

Last evening, Deanne and Eddie came by.  Oh what a fun visit we had!  Deanne was all dressed up as Mrs. Claus. complete with a light up head band and necklace.  I had ordered a light up hat and glasses for her, but they only arrived yesterday.  Still, she put them on and we got us some fun photos.  Here's a photo of us, and a close up to show her beautiful Christmas glasses. 

In the first photo, I am wearing Deanne's light up headband.  The second photo is to show off her beautiful Christmas tree glasses.  We do have fun in our family on Christmas. 

Today's favorite old Christmas photo is one of me sitting on Santa's lap.  This particular year, Santa was my brother.  I miss him, but I do have a lot of wonderful memories.

Now I'm off to bed.  Later, Pogo and I will have such fun opening all the wonderful presents beneath our tree.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a Blessed and Merry Christmas Day. 

Hugs, Edna B.

Santa Claus Comes Tonight

December 24, 2019

Good morning.  It's a little after six, and Pogo and I have been up for an hour.  My little guy was hungry, so I got up and made some breakfast.  Now that his little belly is full, he's snoozing away next to me.  It's a beautiful sound.

Wow, it's Christmas Eve day already.  Tonight my friend Santa will be coming by for a hot cup of refreshment and a bit of chit chat.  I'm ready for him.  Last night, I wrapped all the stuff that he had dropped off here for the dwarfs.  We'll tiptoe together out into the main part of the house and put the gifts under the Christmas tree.

I have a bowl full of sliced apples for the reindeer.  While Santa is here visiting with me, the reindeer are out by my little porch.  My goodness,  they are so quiet that no one would ever know they were there. 

Yesterday, I wrapped another big bag full of gifts for Deanne.  She picked them up on her way home after work.  After I had finished the wrapping, I went online to do a bit more research for a small laptop.  I finally decided on a Microsoft - Surface Go 10" with 128GB and a keyboard.  I also wanted the stylus and an extra year of extended warranty.  I called Best Buy and placed my order.  When it gets here later this week, I'll take a photo.  Merry Christmas to me.

Today's Christmas photo is one of Pogo.  He will be in his jammies and fast asleep, dreaming of Santa and the wonderful goodies that he would put under the tree.

Today I'm going to be lazy and get lots of rest so that I can enjoy my special visitor tonight.  I have a new book to read.  "Lincoln's Gift - How Humor Shaped Lincoln's Life & Legacy."  The little bit that I've already read sounds very interesting. 

I have a picture that I downloaded from the web to share.  Not everyone will be able to celebrate Christmas at home with their families.  Take a moment to pray for them and wish them a glorious and safe Christmas. 

Now I'm off to make a hot cup of coffee.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.  Merry Christmas to you from Pogo and me.

Hugs, Edna B.

These Warmer Temps Are Wonderful

December 23, 2019

Good morning.  The sun is shining and the temperature is 32F degrees, working its way up towards the mid forties.  I can dig this!  Wow, can you believe that Santa Claus comes tomorrow night?  This whole year has just flown by.  Let's hope the cold weather can be just as quick in passing by.

Yesterday I spent the afternoon wrapping gifts for Deanne.  She had to work so this would be a big help for her.  She may be bringing more by today that need wrapping.  Usually she is the one who has to come by and help me get all my things wrapped so this feels rather good. 

It doesn't seem possible that next week we'll be celebrating another brand new year.  I guess it all works out though.  When we are younger and need so much more time to do everything, the year almost seems endless.  Then when we get much older, the year seems to shrink and there's not quite enough time to fit in everything we want to do. 

For today's Christmas photo I have one of Pogo enjoying one of his gifts from Santa Claus.  He just loves this cozy little nest.  When I can't find him, he's usually curled up inside this little hide-a-way.

My nose has been drippy this morning.  I hope I'm not coming down with a cold.  The first thing I'll do when I finish this post is to mix up some Alka Seltzer.  This seems to clear up stuffy noses quickly. 

I borrowed a timely photo from the web to share.  Folks, if it's too cold for you to sleep outdoors without a coat or blanket, then remember it's too cold for many of our precious animals.  Please be thoughtful and try to give them a place to get out of the cold and snow and ice.  It really doesn't take very much to make a warm place for them to curl up in.  There's lots of information on Google to show you how to do this. 

There are lots of new laws being passed against leaving your pets outdoors in the cold and bad weather.  Please bring them indoors.  Remember, your pets would never leave you outdoors to freeze and maybe die.  Please don't do this to them. 

Now I'm off to do a bit of blog reading before I get started on this new day.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.
'
Hugs, Edna B.

Warmer Temps For A While

December 22, 2019

Good morning.  I'm pleased to say that after one whole day and night, the wicked cold snapped and it got a bit warmer.  The sun has been in and out this morning, and the temperature is 33F degrees.  This is much better for me to handle.  These warmer temps should last for a few more days.

Thank you everyone for the nice thoughts for my cousin Ellen.  Hers is not a situation that I would want for myself, but if she is happy and comfortable then I am happy for her.  My four eldest children, Audrey, Kerri, Deanne, Gary Jr, and I all spent some time working as aides and CNA's in hospitals and/or nursing homes.  We took pride in the care that we gave, and I'm hoping that today's aides also take pride in their work. 

Except for a few months, my youngest, Laura Jean, has lived in a nursing facility her entire life.  We have been blessed because she has always been given exceptional care.  For anyone with a special youngster, I heartily recommend the Seven Hills of Groton (MA) facility.  The care is  personalized and wonderful, and the child won't have to move somewhere else when they reach adulthood. 

Today's old Christmas photo is a favorite of mine.  Do you recognize these two beautiful toddlers?  This is Kevin and Jasmine.   How quickly they grow up! 

I'm going to try to upload a new Christmas video of Jazzy singing "Santa Baby" in the current Christmas show at the Paris Cabaret.  Enjoy.  Oops, that did not work.  Here's the link to the YouTube video.  I hope it works.

https://youtu.be/J8cp85KGCJw

I took a photo of the pink afghan to share.  I haven't decided yet if this is the one I'm going to send to Sweden to Ulf or if I'm going to send him another one instead.  At the moment, I'm leaning toward sending him a different one.  Either way, I'll wait until after the holidays to send it.  (the dots on it were a couple of raindrops that hit my lens)

Yesterday and last night, I watched more of the Hallmark Christmas movies.  They all have a similar theme, but I enjoyed them.  Happy endings are always nice.  I crocheted a bit while I watched TV.  Hopefully, these two newest afghans will be finished before I leave for Florida. 

I'm off now to do a bit of blog reading.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Just Trying To Stay Warm

December 20, 2019

Good morning.  It is super cold today.  The temperature now is 19F degrees and feels like 2F degrees.  BRRR!  Last night I had to put on my thick fuzzy socks because my feet were like ice cubes.  This severe cold seems to just come right through my walls and my floors.  Not my cup of tea!

This morning I still can't seem to warm up.  So, I guess I won't be doing much in the way of projects today.  Pogo and I will be spending a lot of time under that big orange comforter keeping warm.  We've been watching Animal Planet on TV all morning and it's been very interesting. 

Today's old Christmas photo is of Santa (my brother) and my friend Evie from my ceramics shop.  Santa and I had stopped by her house to say "Hello" and she gave him a big smooch.  See, we all love Santa.

I found this next picture on the web and borrowed it to share with you.  This could be my bed!  Pogo might be very tiny, but he can take up a large portion of the bed. 

I called my cousin Ellen yesterday only to find out that she will be staying in the nursing home for good.  Her family will feel better knowing that she will have someone around all the time to make sure she doesn't fall.  Unfortunately, they are going to take her two beautiful kitty cats to a no-kill shelter.  This makes me very sad. 

That's it for my news today.  Now I'm wanting to get back under my orange comforter.  So, till Sunday, stay warm and have a fantabulous weekend.

Hugs, Edna B.

Last Minute Packages To Mail

December 19, 2019l

Good afternoon.  Wowsie!  Did I ever sleep late today!  Even though I woke up a couple times, I slept through most of the night and morning.  I think my body may have been a tad bit tired.  I never even heard the mailman when he put the mail and some packages on my porch. 

Speaking of those packages, one of them held a couple items that should have been in one of the boxes that I had already mailed.  What to do?  I put them into little plastic bubble envelopes and then put them both into a bigger bubble envelope.  Put on a mailing label, and voila!  Dwarf Mike offered to take that package and a bigger one going to my youngest daughter to the Post Office.  Awesome sauce!

Folks, that's it.  I am done.  I haven't done this good in years, so I'm feeling very good about it.  All I have left to wrap are the things that Santa left here for all the dwarfs.  I think I'll let that wait until this weekend. 

Yesterday the box with my last yarn order was delivered.  Woo Hoo!  A new box of yarn is better than a big box of candy!   One of my girls found this on the web and sent it to me.  It is sooooo me!

This new box contains the yarn for great granddaughter Alima's navy blue afghan.  Oh my, this is going to be so pretty.  I just couldn't wait, so last night I started working on a new afghan with the navy blue yarn.  I can work on more than one afghan at a time.  These are the colors for this new afghan.

Another box that came today has goodies in it to put beneath the tree for Pogo and me.  This box is from Audrey, Mac and Miss Bea.  Thank you, thank you.  The last package that came today is unopened.  Pogo says that he ordered it for me and that I cannot open it until Christmas.  Well, I'll be!  I'll just put that whole package by the tree. 

Today I want to call my cousin Ellen again to see if maybe she'll be home for Christmas.  She's been in the hospital and rehabs for quite a while now.  I couldn't do this. I couldn't be away from Pogo that long.  One day is too long for me.  This is a photo of Ellen and her daughter Katherine.  I'm praying for you Ellen.

Now I think I'd best get going here.  I have some blog reading to do.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Only Seven More Nights Till Santa Claus Comes

December 18, 2019

Good morning.  Tis cold and icy outside, and the next couple of days and nights will be even colder.  Brrr!   But, it's only 91 days till Spring!

Yesterday I kept busy.  I'm not sure yet what it was that kept me occupied, but it doesn't matter because today is another day.  I did spend some time paying bills, so that is good.  And I crocheted a bit.  Ten more rows and I'll be at the halfway mark on the red and black afghan.  I'm getting there.

I can't wait for the new yarn order to get here.  It's always exciting to see how different colors work up together.  It's nice to do business with the Herrschner Yarn company.  If you call and give them the color number of one of their variegated yarns, they will tell you what the different colors are in it.  This is a big help when you are trying to put colors together for a project. 

I just went to check my supply of sweater bags.  I use these to store my afghans in when I finish making them.  They are 14"x18"x4".  The perfect size.  They come in packs of six and are priced reasonably.  (from Amazon)   Aha, I have a full package of them.

Yesterday was another funny dress day at Amazon, and Deanne sent me this photo of her just before she left for work.  This is adorable.  The skirt has lights on the front of it.  Deanne, you should win a prize for all your fun outfits.

There's only seven more nights till Santa Claus comes bearing lots of presents for all the good boys and girls, and fur babies.  Audrey's two doggies (LB and Moonie) are trying very hard to stay on their best behavior.  Here they are taking a nap, staying out of Mommy's way while she does her household chores. 

I'm still researching the small laptops.  (10" screen)  After a while, it gets so confusing.  Some tablets say that they are like small laptops, but you can't put any photo editing software in them.  I found a couple small laptops but they have slow systems and very little memory.  I'll have to make a trip to Best Buy and ask some questions about which ones are best.  I need to get comfortable with the new little laptop before I leave for vacation. 

Now I'm going to make a fresh cup of coffee and do a bit of blog reading before getting started on this new day.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

December 17, 2019

Good morning.  I'm getting a really late start today.  Sleep was patchy last night.  By the time I finally got up this morning, it had already started snowing here.  During the night, I watched a weather forecast for our area, and it said that we had a lot of snow headed our way.  I'll just have to wait and see what we actually end up with. 

I borrowed this image from the web.  I thought it was really great advice for folks like me.  hahaha.

Yesterday afternoon, Eddie came by and put up my porch lights.  It's only one string of lights, but it sure is cheerful to see when I open my door.   (That's the porch by the front door of the main part of the house.)

While Eddie was here, he carried my large tote full of photos out to the living room and we looked a photos until it was time for him to leave.  He also got down a lot of my corning ware baking bowls that I'm giving to Deanne.  We boxed them up and Eddie put them in his car.  I know that Deanne will get a lot of good use out of these bowls. 

I also sent a big bag of presents home with Eddie to put under their Christmas tree.  I still have lots more to send over there, but first I have to finish wrapping it.  Grandson Bobby's family will be at Deanne's house for Christmas, along with granddaughter Randi and her family. 

I'm hoping to visit with my Granddaughter Shanna and her two sons, Nicholas and Carmello between now and Christmas.  I have an afghan finished for each of them.  I haven't seen her new house yet so I'll have to find something nice for a "new home" gift. 

The mailman came by a little while ago and brought a couple more Christmas cards.  There's just something special about paper cards.  I love them.  As long as I can afford the stamps, I'll mail them.

Today I think I'l try to finish up wrapping things going to Deanne's house.  Once I'm done with my Christmas stuff, I think I'll get an early start on my taxes.  I have most of the expenses separated already, so maybe I can get them all added up.  This will alleviate one great big headache next year. 

Oh be still my heart!  Did I really say that I'm looking forward to getting an early start on my taxes?  And all I've had to drink so far is a half cup of coffee?  Aye yi yi!

I think it's time for me to leave now and do a bit of blog reading.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Big Government's Give And Take

December 16, 2019

Good morning.  Tis nippy today, only 31F degrees.  My phone app says we have snow coming for tomorrow.  Yuk!  Christmas and the New Year are my only saving graces for Winter.  Otherwise, I do not like Winter.  It is just too cold for this old lady. 

Yesterday, Pogo and I had ourselves a nice lazy day.  I did have things that I wanted to do, but we ended up napping on and off between Christmas movies.  I did crochet for a while, but that's about it. 

Is anyone else finding all these wonderful Hallmark Christmas movies addicitive?  I am.  They are on Saturday and Sunday.  I thought I had seen all of them, but so far, all the ones I've watched are new and next weekend will have even more new ones.  Guess what I'll be doing then! 

At least it wont't take long to finish this red and black afghan.  Seventeen more rows and I'll be half done.  Every now and then, I pick it up and work on it while I watch these movies.  I imagine that sometime this week, the navy blue yarn order should get here.  Wouldn't it be nice if I could get these last few afghans finished before I leave for Florida? 

Today I have more old Christmas photos to share.  This first one is my daughter Kerri Anne with Santa.  She was my second born.  I miss her so.

Next, we have my daughter Deanne Marie with Santa.  Deanne was my third born.  I don't know what I'd do without her.  She takes super good care of me.

Last is one of my favorite photos of me with Santa Claus.  After I graduated from grad school, my hubby took me to Faneuil Hall in Boston to do some Christmas shopping.  And guess who was there?  Yup, Santa!  I got to sit on his lap, and he asked me what I wanted for Christmas.  I thought for a bit and then told him "Nothing. I have everything I want."   He told me that no one had ever said that to him. 

The mailman just came.  Do you know that old saying "The Lord Giveth and The Lord Taketh?"  Well apparently the government thinks it is pretty big.  They giveth and taketh too!  You know that nice increase in our Social Security?  Well, after the increase in the cost of Part B, my check will get a whole six dollars fatter!!  And, I'm sure they will want at least half of that back in the form of taxes. 

If I multiply that by twelve months, that gives me a whopping $36 extra dollars (after taxes) to spend next year.  I'm going to have to sit down and figure out the best way to use this extra money.   I'm trying not to laugh here.  If you think about it, it really is comical.  Why bother to give us any increases if most of it is going to be taken back before we even see it?

Ah well, it's nothing that we can control so it's not worth losing sleep over.  Now I'm off to do a bit of blog reading.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

A Busy Weekend

December 15, 2019

Good mornimg.  The sun is shining and the temperature is 42F degrees.  My phone app is having a moment because it is saying that it is raining heavily right now.  Hmmm, maybe it knows something that the weather forecaster doesn't know yet? 

It also says that Thursday and Friday are going to be wicked cold - daytime temps of 20F degrees and nighttime temps of 13F degrees.  Gosh, I hope it will be wrong again!

Well, I had planned on sleeping late this morning, but Sir Pogo had other ideas.  He started barking as soon as he heard Joe out in the house kitchen making his pot of coffee.  I grabbed Pogo and stuffed him back under the covers so that I could get some more sleep, but he wasn't cooperating.  He wanted his turkey treat and that was that!  So I got up.

This weekend has been a busy one.  Friday afternoon I finished wrapping everything that needed be packaged and sent to my daughter Audrey and her family.  All I have left to do now is to finish wrapping  all my local family and friend gifts.  Those are about half done.  I have one more package to get ready for mailing.  That one is for my daughter Laura Jean.  That box will go out mid-week coming up.  Of course, I still have to help Santa wrap the things he dropped off here for the dwarfs. 

When I was finished with my wrapping Friday evening, I put up my little Christmas tree.  You can tell by looking at it that I was exhausted.  But I don't care.  I think it looks great!  I even put the new Christmas ornaments on it that I had bought from Greater Good.

Here's a close up of the new ornaments.  I just love them.  They have paw prints and little hearts all over them.

Yesterday, Deanne took me to the bank and shopping for a few last minute things.  It felt good to get out for a bit.  My breathing hasn't been great these last couple of days, but I need to be up and out once in a while.  Last night I ordered a few grocery items online.  Joe has to go out in a while, so he'll pick up my order while he is out. 

Last night, Deanne and Eddie and a couple of their friends went to the Paris Cabaret to see Jazzy in the Christmas show.  Deanne went dressed in her Mrs Claus outfit.  Everyone loved it! 

I took a picture of my latest electric bill.  Today, Joe is going to take a photo of the meter so that we can see if the numbers are the same.  Last year, I got a couple bills that were just a few dollars shy of $1000.  But this is just getting out of hand.  I wonder how folks are supposed to get by when this is only one of the bills that need to be paid every month.

You can see that last month (October) was over $700.  This new bill is for November.  I can only imagine what the December and January bills are going to look like.  I haven't been able to figure out why my usage was almost doubled in just one month.  Once we get the photo of the meter reading, I'll most likely be calling the electric company.

Now I'm off to do a bit of blog reading.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wrapping, Wrapping, Wrapping!

December 13, 2019

Good morning.  Today is cloudy and the temperature is 33F degrees.  However, it should keep getting warmer all day and night, one or two degrees at a time, until it is all the way up to fifty degrees by six o'clock tomorrow morning.  Of course, that most likely means that it will be raining by then. 

Well, I did it!  Yesterday afternoon, I settled in to do some wrapping.  And I wrapped.  And I wrapped.  There is still a bit left to finish wrapping, but I think I can get it all done by this weekend.  Later today, I want to finish packing a box that needs to go out of state.  After that, everything else is local. 

Last night, I put a few more rows on the red and black afghan.  Today I think I'll take photos of the afghans.  Have you ever noticed how difficult it is to photograph the color red?  It never comes out looking right.  If anyone knows the secret to photographing this color, please do let me know.

Deanne has offered to take me out shopping today, but so far it is not a good breathing day.  So, I think I need to stay indoors.  Maybe I'll see if she can go to the bank for me so that I can pay some bills. 

Tomorrow night, Deanne and Eddie, and a couple of their friends, are going to the Paris Cabaret to see Jazzy and the other Starliners perform the Malt Shop/Christmas show.  I'm going on New Year's Eve, and I'll see the show then.  Here are two of the posters from this show's advertising.

The mailman just came and brought two more packages.  One is a box of paw print Christmas Tree Ornaments.  The other is a couple gifts.  (that I will need to wrap)  I bought these from Greater Good, another way to donate to the animals.  This week, I will be writing out my Christmas checks to a batch of animal rescue shelters, and organizations that help our disabled veterans.  I do this two or three times during the year. 

I'm getting a late start today.  I finally got a really good night's sleep, and this morning I just did not want it to end.  So, Pogo and I got up late.  Yup, he was enjoying the extra sleep too.  But then napping is his new hobby.  Well, I confess, it's mine too.  Actually, I think napping is a perk of reaching such a lofty age as we have. 

Now I'm off to do a bit of blog reading before getting to this new day's chores.  So, till Sunday, Y'all have a fantabulous weekend.

Hugs, Edna B.

Counting The Days Till Vacation Time

December 12,2019

Good morning.  The sun is shining and the temperature is 27F degrees.  We may get up to 31F degrees later today.  Brrr.  I'm thinking, only 70 more days and we'll be in Florida.  Here's a photo of my car that I took through the kitchen window yesterday.

Yesterday, the mailman brought me a package with my new boots.  Oh my, I love my boots!  They fit beautifully and they are so warm!  I guess I'm going to have to break down now and buy myself a pair of slippers. 

I wear flip flops year round (indoors in the winter), but after wearing my warm boots yesterday for a while, I'm thinking that warm slippers might feel really good.  Gosh, if I keep this up, I'll start being like a normal person.  Coat, boots, slippers, what's next?

Oh my, the mailman just came and brought me another Christmas card.  This one is so funny, it has the Grinch on it.  He's peeking out from behind a wreath.  Don't you just love getting cards?  I do.  They are so much better than getting an email card. 

I guess everyone at Deanne's job forgot that yesterday was supposed to Candy Land day at work.  Deanne and the general manager were the only two who showed up dressed for the occasion.  I hope they gave Deanne a lot of extra raffle tickets for participating.  She really did look cute.  Did you notice the lollipop in her hair?

I have another cute photo to share.  This one is Deanne's little dog Sassy.  She's curled up with her Teddy Bear, dreaming of hmmmmm, Santa?  chewy treats?  maybe a new toy?  Santa told me one thing that he's bringing to her.  I think she's going to really love it!

Yesterday I got another surprise in the mail.  My new electric bill.  Can you imagine my shock to find that it is more than five hundred dollars higher than last month's bill?  How can this be legal?  I can just imagine what next month's bill will be like.  We light the Christmas tree every evening.  Pretty soon we won't be able to afford to use any electricity.  The cost is getting out of hand. 

I'm off now to do a bit of blog reading.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

More Christmas Memories

December 11, 2019

Good morning.  Tis chilly, only 31F degrees and dropping a bit for the rest of the day.  It's also snowing again.  Not the funnest day to be outside.

Gosh, I accidentally found a new channel (for me) on TV.  It's called Create Channel.  At 6 a.m. there's a crochet and knit program and at 6:30 a.m. there's a painting program.  This morning I learned some neat new ways to seamlessly sew knitted and crocheted pieces together. How cool is that!!

The yarn for the red and black afghan came yesterday, so last night I put on a few rows of the black.  Nice!  This afghan is really pretty.  When I get a few more rows on, I'll take a quick snapshot of it to share.

Also in the mail were a couple gifts that I had ordered.  More to wrap!  The old procrastinating me is back when it comes to the wrapping.  Gee, I did so good for a while.  Today, I will do my best to get back in the mood.  I'm running out of time.

Oh my, there was just a commercial for something (I did not catch what it was) and it had a dad teaching his little baby girl how to dance.  Towards the end, he picked her up and danced around with her in his arms.  This brings back memories.  When my brother and I were toddlers, my Mom would dance with us like this.  When my babies were little, I danced this way with them.  Sometimes, I dance with my little doggie like this too.

Today I have two more of my favorite old Christmas photos.  This first one is my brother sitting on Santa's lap.  "Have you been a good little boy all year?"  "Why of course I have, Santa."  These were my two main Santas.  When Christmas Eve fell on a Friday night, Santa #1 went to Temple, and my brother took over the role.  Later, Santa #1 would join us for the rest of the evening in his regular clothes.  This really confused a few of the younger kids who thought they had figured out who Santa really was.

Mrs. Claus used to come along every year to give Santa a helping hand.  Rhoda, I miss you and Marshall.  I hope this finds you both well.

Our Christmas Eves were very magical.  It brought together friends and family with different religious backgrounds.  Catholic, Protestant and Jewish.  We celebrated our blessings together.

Today, Joe said he will stop by the Post Office on his way home from work and pick me up the mailing label for an overseas package.  I have one more to get in the mail.  It may not arrive at its destination in time for Christmas, but at least it will get there shortly thereafter.

Now I'm off to do a bit of blog reading before I get started on this new day.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Pickles Explores The Christmas Tree

December 10, 2019

Good morning.  Tis a lovely day here in New England.  The sun keeps peeking out from behind the clouds and the temperature is 55F degrees.  Woo Hoo!  Of course, the rain is supposed to come back later today.  Ah well, I'll just enjoy things while it is so nice.

Yesterday went by quickly.  I know I was busy, I just haven't figured out yet what it was that kept me so busy all day.  I guess that's one of the perks of getting older.  Blissful forgetfulness.  Although I don't really know what is so blissful about it. 

I did call Herrschners Yarn Company, and they helped me find a navy blue yarn.  They also helped me match it up to two other colors.  Now the yarn for my afghan is ordered and will soon be on the way here.  After the navy blue afghan is finished, I still have two more to make for Aurora and Xander.  2020 is going to be another busy crochet year for me.

I have to share something adorable with you.  It seems like Pickles (Jazzy's kitten) is really enjoying the Christmas tree.  Deanne will surely have her hands full keeping their tree safe till after Christmas.

I did not do any wrapping yesterday, so I guess that's my project for today.  Some days I'm in the mood and other days I'm not.  I can't believe that Christmas is only fifteen days away.  Not too long ago, I was ahead of myself.  Now I'm running out of time to get everything done. 

Last evening, I did work on the yellow afghan for a while.  This one is much larger than I usually make them so it's taking longer to make it.  Plus it always seems to take longer to make an afghan that is all one color (like this one).  There's no rush though because I'm keeping this one. 

I just noticed that Joe's truck is in the driveway.  I hope he's not sick.  He doesn't normally lose a day of work.  I'll have to check on him when I finish this post.  I'm thinking I'll wait until after Christmas to mail the afghan for Ulf to Sweden.  I don't want it to get lost in this last minute Christmas Postal rush. 

Now I think I'll do a bit of blog reading.  I have a lot to do today and I really should get started on it.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

A Foggy Day In New England

December 9, 2019

Good morning.  Tis gray and foggy and raining outside, but the temps are rising.  It's 42F degrees right now, and may even hit the higher fifties by evening.  Of course, once the rain stops, the cold temps will be back. 

Well, I finally got all my Christmas cards addressed and ready for the mailman to pick up this morning.  I also packed up all the calendars that are being mailed.  They are all in a bag waiting for me to take them to the Post Office.

Now I just have to get the last two boxes ready for mailing.  I did not sleep well last night, so I'm hoping to gather up enough energy today to get these last two boxes done.  Normally it wouldn't bother me not to sleep at night; but with Christmas coming,I need to get so many things done during the day.  I'm sure it will all work out.

I want to thank the folks who decided to send a card to Carlos.  It will mean so very much to this little fellow.  I have one ready to go out today from Pogo, and tomorrow I'll mail another one from the both of us.  There's another one set aside to mail in a few days. 

We must have a substitute mail carrier today because the msil is late today.  As long as I don't miss him it's okay.  I'd like to get all these cards out in today's mail. 

I found this adorable image on the web and just had to download it to share.  It's a lot truer in real life.  My Pogo is a super doorbell, and he sits on his charger a lot.

Aha!  The mail is here, and all my cards are now on their way.  Now I just have to get to the Post Office and send off all these calendars.  I'm getting there.  Slowly.

I learned that one of my great granddaughters loves the color navy blue.  So that means that one of the new afghans will have to have navy blue in it.  I spent quite a bit of time last night going through my yarn catalogue looking for this color yarn.  I do have some by Red Heart, but it is too thick. 

For some reason, the Red Heart worsted weight yarns are not all the same thickness.  This is the main reason I switched brands.  Today I'll have to call Herrschners and ask if they have a color that is the same as navy blue.  I could not find one in their catalogue.

Before I get started on today, here's a cute giggle for you.  It sort of hits home.

Now I'm off to do a bit of blog reading and then get started on this new day.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.