RAMBLING WITH A GREETING CARD BOX AT MY FEET

STAYING CONSISTENT.  After I walked my two miles on Thursday, I didn't fall down with exhaustion, my legs did not get wobbly and I did not feel faint.  THIS IS PROGRESS.  I was tired, sweaty and out of breath though.  Sweat was running down my brow and my face was beet red.  

I sat in my car and sipped some water after I finished the walk.  The weather was gorgeous and I hit a time slot where no one else was at the track so I could pray out loud as long as I wanted and did.

Drove HOME, sat in the car before getting out to walk to the front door of our COTTAGE. Hubby came along side of me and escorted me inside.  He got me some paper towels to wipe the sweat and a drink.  I sat in my chair to cool off under the breeze coming from the ceiling fan. Sure felt good.

I jot down in my calendar my mileage and relish in the fact that I did the walk.  Have mercy.  I did it.  For the next three days, the weather is suppose to be pleasant so I'd like to take advantage of it and walk two miles a pop.  I hope I can as I will see if my legs and feet hold up after 24 hours.  I am hopeful that I'll get a walk in.  Hopeful.

OUR FRIDAY had a couple appointments in it.  I may stay HOME while HUBBY goes to them.  A car tire needs worked on and he also has an appointment with a shoe store in TOPEKA to get fitted for shoes for diabetics.  It's been two years since he went through this the first time.  He still has the shoes and wears them, but the velcro is in terrible shape.  

Hubby talked me into going to TOPEKA with him.  I didn't put a fight.  Willingly I went.  I drove our new car.  Building up my confidence with this car that has all the bells and whistles.  I have been a tad bit shy to drive it as it is a completely new concept for me.  I know I am old fashioned and when I get comfortable with a piece of machinery, I don't want additional challenges.  Like my old sewing machine, I was incredibly comfortable with it, but after I had to say good-bye to it from our 2016 house fire, I grew timid about sewing on a new sewing machine.  My oven, the same thing happened.  I was shy about cooking on a huge mammoth of a stove/oven.  New vacuum, the same.  I'll just go with the flow and be alright going slow with change.  I don't think it really matters to another soul that I am slow. 

I need to continue doing what is necessary for HOME LIFE.  

We went to his appointment, then walked across the parking lot to OFFICE MAX for special paper Hubby wants for making a BUDGET BOOK.  Drove to the Grocery Store for our medicinal GREEN TEA.  Stopped by Natural Grocers for soy-free eggs and oregano oil.  Buzzed by God's Storehouse for a home-made peanut butter cookie.  HOME DEPOT for lumber.  I think that was it as I was growing weary.  Bottled water from Dollar General.  

I noted that my energy level is very low.  Staying on top of this is exhausting in itself.  I never fully understand why I have such a time with energy.  I was too tired to go looking at material in Wal-mart, Hobby Lobby and Michaels.  Gosh, I miss JoAnn Fabrics.

I'm just going to have to make a special trip to these stores and plan nothing else.  I'd like to see what is available in the area selling fabric.  Thinking about assembling a simple quilt that's colorful and sewing some camp shirts with matching shorts that have an elastic waist band and I can custom make these to be longer in the leg so the thigh is covered to above the knee. 

Perhaps, if I bounce up and down for a minute to stimulate my lymph fluids, I might see a difference in how I feel.  Ever watch Barbara O'Neill?  She encourages this.  Sunshine in the morning and movement.

I'm pretty sure that my Vitamin D levels are way too low and this sure can make one feel drained. Here I be.

THE WEEK-END is here.  The weather will be pleasant and I have plans of walking, working on paperwork and household chores.  Figuring the daily menu.  Watching a late night movie. Resting.

We may have company come to visit next week, so I will tidy the COTTAGE for this.  Clean out the fridge and see what is available for meals.  I am preparing for simplifying the meals for BETTER YOU BETTER SOCIETY by Coach Sam.  Basically, meat and vegetables together every meal.  

Today, I finally got my greeting card box gone through which reminded me that I was doing the same thing over 28 and a half years ago when putting together a greeting card box.  When Princess Di was in the terrible auto accident that ended her young life in 1997, I was putting together a greeting card box and I have used the same box all these years.  Now, this is impressive to me that I actually held onto the same box.  A new box was long over due.

Back in 1997, Hubby and I had gone to a very fancy restaurant in Tulsa, Oklahoma for an anniversary celebration supper at the WARREN DUCK CLUB.  I don't remember what I ate and I don't remember much about the decoration of this nice place, but there was a live piano player quietly performing for background mood music.  I know that one couple there were getting engaged as I watched the man hand over to his date a ring box.  She was blushing as she showed the waiter her new ring on her ring finger shaking her head yes when asked if she was newly engaged.  It seemed surreal to see someone so happy at the moment.  

When we returned home for the evening, our daughter told us about Princess Di being in a terrible accident on our 23rd wedding anniversary.  I was saddened for sure and of course I turned the TV on to hear the news.  I would stay up late to see the televised funeral services with my greeting card box at my feet on the floor inside the run down rental that we were living in.  

That rental is no longer there as it was destroyed so an Early Childhood Center could be built in Jenks, Oklahoma on this spot.  When we return to the old neighborhood from time to time, I pause.  No more junky rental.  

I can still see in my mind's eye the rental.  It still lives on.  

Years later, we made it to Paris and drove to the area that Princess Di's accident took place.  Our trip to Paris was the year when President Reagan died in 2004.  I remember because we were at the Washington Dulles International Airport sitting in a plane waiting to unload when we heard that President Reagan had died.  How interesting that I was so close to Washington D.C. when this President passed away. 

BACK TO THE PRESENT.  Walking.  I walked this afternoon only a mile as I just didn't have it to give.  The weather was pleasant and there was only one other peep at the track while I walked.  I prayed and talked out loud which encouraged me to keep walking.  

Supper tonite.  Dunno.  Think I'll work on the card box for a while longer and listen to Candace Owens before fixing a meal.  I haven't listened to her in a while.  What she said about psychology rings true.  I believe she does her homework.   

As for Charlie Kirk's assassination...I'm leaning toward him being killed by an exploding lapel microphone and the exit wound is what we saw on the front of his neck as other's said it was the entrance wound.  I'm a bit of a conspiracy theorist.  As I have watched footage of Charlie's assassination over and over in slow motion, there is a puff of smoke that comes out from under the shirt he was wearing where the lapel mic was worn.

I believe that he was murdered by  i s r a e l i  diplomats.  I wasn't born yesterday, but became an old lady before understanding the relationship between the United States and the Nation of I s r a e l with AIPAC.  It is something else and when Charlie began to question what was going on politically between the two countries where he wasn't bowing his knee to Israel, he was murdered.  

Israel owns America?  Whatever Israel wants, America will supply them?  We will fight their wars for them?  Our Presidents are owned?  When criticizing Israel, you can lose your job.  

Now to get back to my box of greeting cards 

at my feet.

~d

Neil Sedaka

He will be missed.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGapGbo37hU&list=RDHGapGbo37hU&start_radio=1

~d

MAKING FOOD CHOICES EASIER THAN BEFORE and DON'T WORRY BE HAPPY

OKAY.  Alrighty then.  I am up and going.  Figured the day and have plans of walking two miles today in the heat of the day with sunshine on my face probably around 1 or 2 in the afternoon.  This will be what I focus on.  Vitamin D at work here.  The track has 8 marked lanes so I will walk one time around the track in each lane.  I'll take some water and rest afterwards.  I might have to sit in between miles, but that's alright.

UPDATES.  Hubby is working on finishing one of the garage doors.  Two doors are needed.  I'm so pleased and proud of the progress he has made on this project.  Great Grand baby that is a premie is improving.  Granddaughter that had a c-section is home and getting better.  Family member that is in the middle of a career change is making progress,  downsizing goes on.  That saying, don't worry...be happy comes to mind.  DON'T WORRY.  BE HAPPY.  I can't whistle, but I'll fake it.

My plans today are to walk, make a nice lunch and supper as we have already ate breakfast. Snack will be yogurt with fruit.  Water and tea throughout the day.  Do some laundry, bookkeeping and paperwork.  Switch out greeting card boxes.  Blog.  Research whatever.  Tidy more on Dining room.  Dream and pray.  Read the local newspaper and work on budget stuff. Fair enough day.

WALKING.  The Kansas sky is bright blue and it is peaceful outside.  Beautiful day for a springlike walk in the country.  Some green leaves are popping through the ground by the base of the front yard tree.  That's exciting.  Not sure if these are tulip leaves or daffodils yet.  During the month of March, I need to work at cleaning out the flowerbeds, walk, diet and empty the garage. That's the plan.

The chicken breasts for lunch are finished baking.  I plan to go walking first before Lunch.  After much thought I have a plan on how to get enough protein in each meal and work toward reducing.  I'm sounding like a broken record.  Having thyroid issues has made reducing incredibly difficult and I find myself in the twilight zone as for reducing.  Do I continue to try to reduce or just accept that I am a difficult case and the weight may never come off?   With switching out how I eat, I know I am healthier than before and this is a huge plus.  I may be one of those peeps that's healthier carrying some extra weight on my bones verses getting skinny.

I'm not bragging, but I have been watching a multitude of reels and videos about reducing.  Lord help me do this thing the right way.  At the present, I believe that for breakfast I should continue eating Bob's Red Mill Scottish ORGANIC Oatmeal with sliced almonds, blueberries or other fruit on hand, cocoa, cinnamon and almond milk.  Then on alternate days fix a dish with soy-free chicken eggs with half a plate of veggies.  Two eggs plus one cup liquid egg whites for extra protein and veggies like spinach, broccoli or asparagus would be a great choice in the reducing party. 

Lunches and Suppers each will have a choice of 4 to 6 ounces of meat, poultry or seafood along with half a plate of steamed, cooked or baked vegetables or a combination salad.  Maybe when having cooked veggies, the other meal ought to have a combination salad for the veggies.  So along the day, I'd have cooked veggies and raw.

When I have grass-fed beef for lunch, I'll switch the protein and have chicken, turkey, fish, lamb or venison.  Skip the pork.  Cut the carbs and sugar.  Occasionally have a cup of rice or sweet potato.  Evening SNACK will be yogurt and fruit or protein drink if hungry.  SOUNDS EASY ENOUGH.  The hard part is sticking to it for 3 months.  I believe the weight WILL COME OFF. Staying consistent is harder than I want to admit.  DISCIPLINE for the disciplined.  

It doesn't sound very exciting, but when I accomplish a task, I get a lift in my spirit.  I managed to organize my Christmas Greeting Cards and when I finished this, I was truly happy about it. This little task meant success.  

"Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned."   --- Peter Marshall

Blessings to you,
~d

DREADING THIS MIDDLE OF THE WEEK MEDICAL APPOINTMENT

THE DAY HAS COME TO GET MY A1c CHECKED.  I dread having this done BECAUSE I know I have been horrible about eating sweets for months.  I did pretty well about avoiding highly processed foods, avoiding high fructose corn syrup, seed oils and eating less carbs, but I had more Valentine candy than I should.  AND I ate lots of ice cream.  LOTS.  I will bravely go to the lab this morning and allow a draw and not be shocked when told the results. gulp. 

A WAY OF LIFE.  I continue to eat more organic, none GMO foods, getting more rest and decluttering so there is less stress.  Drinking GREEN TEA and SPRING water, no coffee, no alcohol, no smoking, no recreational drugs.  Eat more veggies and fruits, nuts and beans. Exercising.  Went off meds 7 months ago that increased cholesterol and blood glucose.  

I have to refresh my mind what to eat to lower A1c, cholesterol and high blood pressure.   

UPDATE:  Labs were done.  This evening, I checked on results in my health portal.  I was stunned that I am stable at 6.7 which is considered excellent control.  Maintaining a 6.7 for over a year.  I would rather be in the 5's.  I'll work toward this.  I have to stay under 7.  

I will strive to continue on this healthier path and see if I can lower my weight by my July physical.  I'd love to go there having lost 30 pounds.  Yes, I would.  

I was very happy that my A1c was as good as it was.  PTLord.  

I walked yesterday at the track and it was wonderful as there was a gentle breeze and it wasn't too chilly out.  No one else was there at the time of my walk.  I took a nap today and decided that I would stay HOME to rest.  SO much emotional stuff is going on that I am whipped.  Drained.

The birth of my great grand baby was way too exciting and concerns for my granddaughter's health as well was a bit much.  Praising GOD both girls are improving.  Grand is home.  Baby still at the Hospital.  Last night I found out my only sister is quite ill with liver issues.  I'm in prayer.  

I decided that I will allow rest instead of putting myself down for not getting household chores done today.  I am going to get this thing under control.  Amen.

THEN HUBBY CHOKED ON A NUT.  This was scary.  After tending to him the best I could and he stopped choking, he took a nap.  Later he checked his health portal to find out that the place on his chest that required surgery was cancerous.  pause.  He dropped his phone.  I asked him what was wrong then he shares with me.  This is his third round of cancer.  Third.  This time skin. 

On the other hand, his A1c had come down and is a 7.  He hasn't been this low in years.  The change in his food program is helping and this is the way in which we are to go.  Amen.   

There's always something going on.  I know that this is just a part of LIFE.  TOO MUCH EXCITEMENT though.  I need a visit by the still waters.  

I think I need to go see my sister and mom in Iowa.  I haven't been there since September. Hubby will stay HOME working on the garage doors.  I'll have to wait until next week because I have to see my eye doctor concerning the inflammation in my eyes.  SO FAR, the medicine is going well without stinging.

Last night, we babysat Lil Dude and this was super fun for us.

Welp, I will hopefully be more energized tomorrow with hopes of working on the messes around here.  I have a card box that I need to transfer greeting cards to.  The plastic box I have is falling apart so I'll do a switch.  

Simple, but necessary.
Blessings to you,
~d  

 

P.I.P. is not R.I.P. BEING PRO-ACTIVE!

Glad the stained glass window is dangling in the window.  One day soon, the cracks in the walls will be patched as well.  Slowly we are making our COTTAGE our own.

TUESDAY TRIUMPH.  Let this day be a great success!  Hubby is working on hanging my new wall shelf.  I'm his adoring sidekick.  Whatever he needs, I get it for him.  My eyeballing objects is my specialty.  Almost a SUPER POWER.  

Hung with a framed picture, framed mirror and whatever else will sit up there!  Decorating is my cup of tea 🍵 and brings me such contentment.  Warms my heart.  

All smiles. I will be able to change the things that sit on the shelf when I get a whim to do so.  Seasonal everything.  Later, we will hang a longer, wider shelf so I can layer the things that sit on the shelf.  This shelf will be moved to another room and replaced with a longer one that Hubby will make.

I can see the wall arrangement from my TV recliner in the other room.  I like it as it adds a touch of COTTAGE to our small place on the PRAIRIE in the Flint Hills.

I'll be spending some time with my youngest grandson later today.  Looking forward to this.  He told his momma that "I love going to Grandma's House.  She has the best TOYS!  I love her."

That puts a smile in my SOUL.  He is such a delight.

My daughter and s.i.l. are going on a DATE to the theatre to watch SOLO MIO.  I think they'll enjoy it.  I did.  I'll watch it again when it streams on ANGEL.  For the time being, we got free tickets.  It was the refreshments that broke the bank.  If I say we only go to the theatre once a year, it takes the sting off of the expense somewhat.  ouch.  It was a chunk of change for the treats as we also had a hamburger and bottled water to drink.  Our supper was not included with the ticket.  It wasn't cheap and I can see why people sneak treats in with them.  No more looking down my nose at those who do this.  pause.  I am not the theatre police.  

Yesterday was a triumph.  Yes, a triumph.  Got up early to travel to TOPEKA for my eye zap follow-up.  Found out that there is inflammation in the back of the eyes and in the fronts. hmmm.  Eye drops required and I'm to go to my Optometrist in a week to check on how things are going.  Drops for 5 days three times a day.  Will do.

I was concerned that the drops would sting, but I was fortunate they didn't.  Hope it stays this way.  I've got to phone my doctor for an appointment.  Add to the TO-DO LIST.  

We ate at FIRST WATCH afterwards.  Hubby suggested that we eat inexpensively for a change. Hey.  He is finally becoming thrifty.  The last time I ate there, I had A MILLION DOLLAR POTATO.  Delicious, so we both had one of these and drank WATER.  Hubby NEVER just drinks WATER with a meal, but he made a leap of FAITH and had only water.  We walked out of there having spent $12.56.  We'll do this again.  That's only $6.28 each and we still get to enjoy the atmosphere while we're in TOPEKA.  I joked and told him that the cheapest I have eaten out was at WENDY'S munching on his chili crackers with mustard.  TRUE STORY.  I'd do this again.

We could do this sort of thing in the comfort of our car.  grins.  hmmm.  I think we'd better give this one a try.  We are on a PIP this year.  PROFIT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM.  P.I.P.  Giving GREAT THOUGHT of SAVING MONEY BY NOT SPENDING unless necessary.  Cutting back.

P.I.P. Idea:  The television movie channels are being eliminated this week except for ROKU so we have computer service.  I plan on watching antennae TV, watch YOU TUBE MOVIES, checking out DVDs from the Library and watching movies we already have. 

R.I.P.  More has to happen than resting.  Being PRO-ACTIVE means doing something, doesn't it?  Yes.  I must be active in this arrangement.  Aiming to have goals can be energizing.  Following through is to be exercised.  So do this thing called change or addition to the lifestyle. 

P.I.P.  Idea:  Use the Public Library for reading materials such as books, magazines, movies.

P.I.P.  Idea:  Entertain self at HOME by reading, drawing, sewing, blogging, etc.  

P.I.P.  Idea:  Live below your means and save the rest.

P.I.P.  Idea:  Don't spend money.

P.I.P.  Idea:  Buy only what you really need.

P.I.P.  Idea:  Buy thrift.

P.I.P.  Idea:  Barter or borrow.

While in TOPEKA, we stopped by the thrift store, GOD'S STOREHOUSE to browse even though it wasn't Senior Discount day.  I would have appreciated the 20% discount, but this wasn't the day for that.  I purchased a brightly colored spring blouse.  I need blouses.  I have plenty of tee-shirts which I enjoy wearing, but sometimes I love dressing up a tad and need blouses to do so.  Two pairs of slacks for lil Dude and a sweat shirt went home with me.  There in the glassware were 4 Iced Tea glasses with the Dublin design on them.  I debated if I should wait, but then they probably would fly off the shelf for someone else for the price they were.  I don't have any iced tea glasses and these are a nice addition to my Dublin design glasses.  Soooo, we bought them.  PTL.  A super good price.

  

We cut our trip short and will grocery shop later when we have yet another medical appointment later in ze week.  I tell you, we have the appointments.  Thankful we can go to them when needed, but I would really appreciate it and be excited if we were so healthy we stayed away from them thar' places.  Know what I mean?  Yes, I do.

The stained glass window went up in the Living room.  I LOVE IT.  There she hangs.

I best get my walking clothes on and take advantage of this almost SPRING-LIKE weather.  The last few days, it has been too cold for comfort.  I'd like for SPRING to be here already.  When the temps are in the high 60s I can go walking for my health.

Time to go walking.  This will help me wake up and avoid a NAP.  I understand that if you walk after a meal that it helps with blood sugar spikes.  Who needs the spikes when diabetic?  No one.  Absolutely no one.  I am diabetic and I'm sorry about this.  Somedays I forget that I am, but then the fatigue and extra weight reminds me.

On SUNDAY, my Granddaughter had a c-section and out came our sweet little girl.  A Great Grandmother I be.  Praise the LORD.  I saw some pics of her and she does not look like a premie. Grand goes HOME today.  Baby will stay at the HOSPITAL for awhile.  I'm praying for them.

The praying Grandma might be an excellent book to write or keep answered prayers written down so one can celebrate and remember when.  

I have much to pray about concerning family.  So much.  

I won't be watching the President's State of the Union Address until later.  I plan to watch it late tonight.  Wonder what he will talk about?  The tariffs he has put into place?  War with I R A N? President Trump made Campaign Promises that he would be the President of Peace.  Going to war isn't my idea of peace nor is destroying the Gaza area so a high dollar resort for the wealthy goes into place.  Not resting well with me.  I really don't think the Epstein Files will be a subject that goes quietly into the night even if the President wants it to and states that the American people shouldn't be still talking about this hoax.  I don't believe it is a hoax.  Tis real.  Gone are the days of my childhood where innocence prevailed.  I had such a precious childhood.  I was allowed to be a child that was protected from harm's way.  Even with much that was imperfect, I was protected and loved.  pause.

Off I will go to walk the track.  Praise the LORD I can walk!!!

~d  

 

GREAT GRANDMA

I BECAME A GREAT GRANDMA!

Details to follow,
~d

ROLLING RIGHT ALONG, Granny Nanny Chronicles and A L I E N S

WHERE ARE YOU SPRING?  🌷🌷🌷 These tulips purchased a few days ago will be planted outside after others start to pop through the ground.  These will go out front around the base of the front yard tree.  For now, I have a little sunshine in my Living room which I sorely needed.  The WINTER BLUES are present.

I saw where someone used a paper board egg carton and placed tulip bulbs in the carton then planted the base of the entire carton in the ground.  The tulips eventually popped through the soil where very evenly spaced rows of tulips appeared.  I'm going to have to do this.

 

ON THURSDAY, we met up with our Granddaughter to see her dorm room and take her out for a meal.  The school year is flying and we were delighted to spend some time with her before the semester ends.

It was bitter cold and windy outside, but our hearts were warmed.

ON FRIDAY WHEN WE GOT OUT TO RUN ERRANDS, the weather was chilly.  Snow was on its way within the next 24 hours.  ANOTHER WINTERY MIX for us.  When waking this Saturday morning, there was snow on the landscape.  Beautiful pure white snow.  I'll stay indoors today. I'll babysit in a little while.

The youngest Grandson will be coming over for a visit today.  I won't be doing much housework with him here.  We'll visit and play trains, play cooking, watch a fun movie, snack and enjoy the day together. 

Momma came over later and we had a wonderful visit.  Tea Time for sure.

 
The week ahead we have a few medical appointments scheduled.  

A Great Grand baby may come into the world early due to my Granddaughter's placenta having split.  She's hospitalized.  Prayers appreciated.  Granddaughter has the flu though so I see issues with her having a c-section while she has the flu.  

Two Grandsons will celebrate birthdays this week.  AND I'll continue to tidy on the house.  AND Hubby is working on the garage doors.  He's building carriage doors.  Should be mighty cute when finished.

May the doors come together quickly.

I made progress on the extra bedding being bagged up in special storage bags, but I still need to store them somewhere convenient.  I'll work this week on it.  The smaller bags fit in the pink room's tiny closet, now to find a good fit for the larger bags.  Maybe in the Utility room.  Maybe? How this turns out is a mystery to me.  I need it to be orderly and tidy.  Not sure how this will manifest.

 

THE WEEK TO COME.  The fan blades on the Living room ceiling fan and the TV room's fan need a thorough cleaning.  I'll have to bring a ladder into the house so I can reach the little darlin's.  The sooner I can get them cleaned the better.  Gosh, they are filthy.  Always something to do.  Consider this to be early SPRING CLEANING.

My wall shelf arrived and I am so pleased to have it.  Hubby plans to hang it this week.  Hurray and a half.  It will certainly change the way the room looks.  It will hold a framed picture, a framed mirror and some greens to decorate the shelf.  When I come across some bunnies, they will go there as I will use the shelf for seasonal decor.  

AS IT IS STILL WINTER, I need to relax about LIFE and free myself up to continue HOME LIVING.

  

A L I E N S🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸🛸

Should we take this with a grain of salt or ON A SERIOUS NOTE...will  a l i e n s  attack the Earth?  A few years ago, I heard that fake  a l i e n  attacks will take place on Earth. Documentation of UFO sightings are to be released for all to read.  Personally, I believe that there are no  a l i e n s, but rather demons impersonating  a l i e n s.  Also fake representation of  a l i e n s  manipulated by elitist.  What is this  P r o j e c t   B l u e  B e a m  about?   

I'd heard that  I R A N  will drop an atomic bomb then release a fake a l i e n  attack because the bomb interested them by attacking Earth and melting humans.  Would that be the way millions of humans will be killed to allow the elitist to get their way?   I'm not saying I believe all of this, but I acknowledge that others are talking about this stuff.  I do believe the wickedness of man could orchestrate such a horrific thing.    

Has our government been playing games with us using blue  b e a m s  from outer space to cause fires on property they want for smart  
c i t i e s ?  Will Gaza become a playground for rich elitist?  Has our government been manipulating our weather to make super storms that destroy more property and kill more people? 

Elitist want the Earth to have only 500,000,000 people on the planet.   The GEORGIA GUIDE STONES supported this.  How many people inhabit the Earth now?  Approximately 8.3 billion.

What kind of plandemic will take place to murder millions of people?  Praying for our country.  Praying for our world.  Praying.

Oh my.  I am a bit of a conspiracy theorists or am I?  Keeping it interesting.  

Let the flowers bloom,

~d on the prairie

  

5, 4, 3, 2, 1 GROCERY HACK

Saw this on Facebook.  
She started by placing an empty laundry basket 

in her shopping cart and showed her GROCERY HACK.  

The 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Grocery Method.  

Hack for the week of meal supplies.

5 veggies.

4 proteins.

3 fruits.

2 starches and 2 breads.

1 sweet treat.

She made it all look so simple and easy which made this all look so sensible.  I am going to do this HACK soon.

I'll let you know how it goes.  

I think this method would cut grocery expenses.  

What say you?

~d

 

OUR LOVELY OLD COTTAGE AND A SOLUTION TO FITTING IN

ALL IS GOOD AS I LAUNDERED AND FOLDED BULKY MATTRESS PAD COVERS.  I'm deciding what I should do with the ones that I no longer have a mattress for.  I was reading up on what to do with old mattress pad covers besides using them for mattresses.  Great for dog beds, cut up dusting clothes, give them to a charity and extra cushions. Now to decide what I want to do with mine

I'm no longer using a QUEEN SIZE mattress, but one of the pads is like BRAND NEW.  I may box this one up incase we return to a QUEEN SIZE bed one day soon.  The other covers are in good shape.  I don't really want to cut them up.  I'd rather give them to someone who doesn't care if they are a tad bit worn.  Some use several mattress pad covers to add cushion to their bed, but the ones I have I no longer have that size bed.

They laundered up so nicely that I'm impressed if I do say so myself.  So pleased.  My folded bedding stash is looking nice.  Finally some order concerning this situation. After so much time has passed, I can see progress long over due.  Thank you, Lord.  I can breathe easier and my blood pressure has lowered.  That's progress.

https://youtu.be/XCprAwSK6UI?si=onCXqfIweGJzwnv-  

The day is going well so far.

My packaged bedding is piling upwards on the sofa toward the ceiling.  Looking good to see the bedding neat and gathered together.  Now, I have the simple task of figuring where to store my stash of bedding.  The bedding has been laying on a bed as well as settled neatly into a laundry basket for two years.  Two years.  That's a while.  Blows my mind that 2 years has passed and I'm still struggling to fit into this lovely, old COTTAGE.  I have to find a better solution for the bedding.  Using the main closet in the bathroom that we have would swallow up too much space needed for clothing, purses and shoes.  For now, I think it's best to temporarily stack these packages on a metal shelf unit and clothing rack in the utility room just to get them out of the living room where I have been working, but if I go this route I'll have to find other places for the small appliances that are on the shelves.  Scratch my head and twirl around, I am in trouble.

The COTTAGE does not have adequate closet space which hurts and makes a tidy HOME more challenging to achieve.  Burning some brain cells to come to a workable solution.  The front bedroom has two small closets where one is being used for our coat closet.  This needs to stay the way it is.  Absolutely no space for bedding.  The other one hides piping.  That's not a good place for bedding.  In the pink bedroom is another very small closet.  I might see about emptying it to stack the bedding in there.  Humm.  That might just work for us.  

It's moments like this that I just about can't see past my nose making it a difficult place to be. I need vision a plenty and it is slow to come to me.  Slow.  Very, very slow.  

Returning to MENARDS for yet another storage bag.  I need a larger one to put extra pillows in. I filled the one that I purchased last week with pillows and this size bag is perfect for my pillows. I'd like to get a couple more to handle the other pillows I have.  I have some oblong CHRISTMAS pillows that could fill another bag or two.  I am feeling contented that these are working out so nicely.  

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Spending hours entertaining myself by thinking what to do next on the clean-up of our place. After I get the main rooms tidied, then I will go out to the garage and begin the task of clearing it out, getting to where I can see the floor, sweeping and washing the floor, then deciding what needs to be stored in here as it cannot be used as a regular garage because it is too short to house our huge cars.  She will become a STORAGE UNIT which means one of the storage units we are presently renting to house overflow until we could deal with it, will be emptied.  When we hit that day...I will be soooo relieved my heart shall sing.  

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It is best to stay organized all along so you don't have overkill on getting organized, but then there are times that things happen and we have to pick up the pieces and do something new with the things.  Know what I mean?

I was saddened to read that another one of my friends from Marion, Kansas passed away at 67 years of age.  pause.  She was in a Nursing Home already.  sigh.  It reminds me that I need to get on with LIFE and not be wasting my time as it is a precious thing.  I need to be a good steward of time, money and property.

The cedar hangers we ordered on-line arrived about as fast as you can shake two sticks.  I assembled them and will be hanging them in our closets.  They certainly smell good.  The computer screen wipes we ordered arrived with the hangers.  That's two birds with one stone.  

Still waiting for the wall shelf that is suppose to get here like post hast.  When it goes up, I'll snap a pic and share with you.  I waited half a year to finally order one.  I wasn't completely sure I wanted one, but finally I made up my old mind.  Waiting for some supplements and checks to come to my front door.  Nothing quite like ordering then waiting.  It requires less energy than pounding the pavement looking for things only to find out the brick and mortar shop doesn't have what you needed.

NOW to go shampoo me hair, let it air dry and call it a day.  No.  I will work as I go.  When I get tired, I shall rest and think about what needs to be done.  When I can, I'll get back up and do another task.  There are always things that need to be done.  Always.  I should never be bored.  It is up to me to make work enjoyable and not boring.  When it starts to get boring, I need to remind myself that I don't have to be emotionally involved with the task.  Just do it.  Pray if you must, but pray.  Think HAPPY THOUGHTS and be happy you can still do what needs to be done.

Learning as I travel along the dusty road of LIFE.

God bless you as you travel the road before you,

~d  

MIDDLE OF THE WEEK and THE WEAKER SEX

I CONTINUE TO LAUNDER OLD MATTRESS PAD COVERS using hot water and bleach on a 131 minute wash cycle.  The pads are coming out of the washing machine smelling fresh and looking white.  The heavily yellowed areas on the pads have vanished.  A good thing.

GOOD CALL.  I place them in the clothes dryer and wait until finished before attempting to fold. The method I am using to fold these bulky pieces of fabric is working like a charm.  I place the pad with the opening on top then pull the top to the bottom then over again folding the sides inward.  Whaahlaah...tis working like a charm as I said.  So much easier than when I was folding the fitted sheets.  

My focus today will be to get all the mattress pad covers laundered and folded to put away. Between loads, I will work on other things.  Such as? I need to go walking today.  It'll take me about 30 minutes.  Resting is vital.

Hubby has gone to do some errands.  Airing up a low tire on the Caddie.  Driving over to Manhattan to purchase wood for the garage door he will be building.  I rose early and began to get anxious about this project that needs finished by March 13th.  With our health and age related issues, I'm not sure he will be able to finish this project before the Insurance Company's deadline.

He is a handyman for sure, but he pushes the envelop at times that causes me to get anxious.  I HATE it when he runs to the wire on things.  This puts me in a mood.  Stressed out where I am using up all my energies to get through an episode is tiring.  He is well able to work on projects, but his lack of allowing enough time is a hardship to me.  He can easily get too spread out and not have his priorities in the right order.  

I was reading about this problem which causes uneasiness and anxiety in the HOME.  It doesn't seem like it makes any difference to him that I am beside myself.  I am too old to have so much stress hitting the repeat button over and over.  One can pray and talk straight forward to their spouse, and still remain in a dysfunctional home.  The harmony disappears.  Poof.  Where'd you go?

If we're not going to work together then there will be suffering.  The marriage will be in trouble. I don't like being ignored or disrespected nor do I think he does.

I truly believe this is a huge part of my fatigue.  I am the type of person that needs things to run smoothly and unrushed if at all possible.  Plan, pace yourself and arrive in one piece in peace. Hubby thrives on chaos.  I don't.  FOR EXAMPLE, I shop for Christmas all year long.  Hubby use to wait until Christmas Eve as the clock is striking midnight announcing it is Christmas Day before concerning himself with shopping for gifts... and what stores are open at midnight? That's an exaggeration, but perhaps I made my point.  I plan and he flies by the seat of his pants. It's a dangerous combination. 

I get bent out of shape waiting until April 15th to work on the taxes on the day they are due.  I'm more relaxed when the taxes are completed and in the mail a week ahead of time at least.  He is working on the taxes right up until time to go to the Post Office to slip the envelope in the mail slot.  I HATE THIS. Too close for comfort.  If he is the one doing the taxes then he will have to do the work in a way that suits him so he completes the task and I must allow him to do it his way. It is troublesome to me knowing that he is cutting the task too close for comfort because if there is a hiccup there will be additional work to get the task completed.  Who needs more to do when already having too full of a plate?  Not me.

When preparing for an important event, I'd rather have things ready to go way ahead of time, not on the day of the event.  Personal preference.  

If the husband is going to ignore his wife's emotional state, he isn't considerate.  He is a poor manager.  It isn't enough to think that the wife is too hyper and wound up by thinking she just needs to relax and chill out.  Her hormones are acting up AGAIN.  Nope, he needs to be considerate and coordinate better.  He needs to be realistic that he isn't being a good team player and is doing things to cause unrest within his wife.  If using up all the adrenaline is considered doing things right, then I question the rules.  The wife can bend, but if required to bend too often, she will become deformed and break.  If she is going to be required to continually overwork herself to keep up with a husband that is lacking compassion, then she will break.

Some people wear out and don't bounce back.  If the Husband isn't going to understand then there will be issues.  BIBLICALLY, he is suppose to understand his wife and if he chooses not to, then he is sinning if you ask me.  He is kicking against the pricks.  AND if the wife remains in this type of relationship then she will be kicking against the pricks as well.  Jesus says it is hard to kick against the pricks.  Best listen to HIM.  If the wife stays in a relationship like this, then she will get sick and may not bounce back.  She may collapse and stay down for the count.  Hurrying once in a while can happen, but if it is all the time without consideration for the weaker sex then serious damage is done. 

Like it or not, God has wired the wife as a weaker vessel meaning she is more delicate than a rough houser like a man who is naturally callous toward others.  Emotional health can be damaged from such practices as ignoring the weaker sex's limits.  Mental health can be destroyed and a relationship can be ruined.  This can cause the physical body to become wounded and one will struggle with illnesses that they don't need.  God has wired women to be sensitive and needing more consideration when dealing within a marriage.  Men are naturally tougher and it can get in the way of functioning within a marriage.  He can be a cad and not think anything of it.   

I fully understand that there are times that one cannot always do things unhurried and that LIFE gets in the way so you must hurry at times, but I also understand that if the hurrying becomes a way of doing things all the time then there will be adrenaline exhaustion.  Have fun with that one.  

I am very blessed to have a Husband that does so much around here and I don't want to look down on him, but I have feelings as well and we need to work together as a couple that thrives as one and not be blind to each other's feelings.  The door swings both ways, doesn't it?

We're not to be each other's door mat that gets walked all over.  Instead we are to be loving toward each other, considerate and kind.

~d

Stuck on you, Lionel Richie cover,

NO FLOWERS TO EAT, ON A MISSION and BEING REBELLIOUS ABOUT SHOPPING

HERE IT BE PRESIDENTS' DAY WHERE THE POST DOESN'T RUN NOR THE BANKS BE OPEN.  HAPPY PRESIDENTS' DAY TO YOU.  I forgot it was such a day, got up early to make the postal drop so a birthday card would get to a family member on time.  I was so proud of myself, then when I got HOME, my Hubby reminded me it is Presidents' Day and the mail doesn't flow.  Laughing, I said I had forgotten.  The card more than likely won't reach the one it was suppose to on time.  shucks.  That makes it an OH WELL kind of moment.

VALENTINE'S DAY was truly a nice one for me here on the prairie.  I had a  g o o d  one.  Hubby and I exchanged cards and gifts.  Our entire week leading up to Valentine's Day was focused on being VALENTINES.  The entire week.  Heavenly and relaxing.  It rained throughout the day though.  Nothing drastic.  Gentle rain fell and I did not hear THUNDER.  The chocolate in my mouth helped.  grins.

Our youngest grandson came over to visit.  Smiles on his face.  Then Lil Miss dropped by and eventually returned him to his HOME.  He played so well and our visit was wonderful. Wonderful.  Gave the GRANDS their Valentines.  I enjoyed my chocolates too much.  Sugar high and sweetness overload.  Once a year, I look forward to receiving this candy from a heart shaped box. Flowers are beautiful, but I don't usually eat them for the sweetness.  Sniffing, yes.  Eating, no. 

While on our Sunday Drive, we saw signs of Spring including faux flowers in front of a SHOPPE. These perked up the drab weather we had been having.  Ready for our Spring to be real.

On Sunday afternoon, we took a SUNDAY DRIVE across the prairie to see the landscape and accomplish some 'you got it' shopping.  I was on a mission to find some Cedar blocks that hang, return some storage bags that didn't work for the purpose I had in mind, purchase different storage containers and there was something else, but I can't recall right this second.  Oh yes, a thermometer that does not have to be sanitize before and after each time you use it.

IT WAS ALMOST A BUST.  The main thing I wanted to get were hanging cedar blocks that I can hang in the closet AND a thermometer.  I couldn't even find cedar blocks.  After two dollar stores, a Hardware store, Walgreens, Marshalls, Target, Home Depot and Menards...there were no cedar blocks to be found, but Walgreens had a thermometer that I bought.  Menards had a small box of cedar balls that I purchased, but the places I visited did NOT have the hanging blocks or blocks period.  What's up with dat?  Menards did have some moth balls.  I probably should have bought some after the HUNT I had.  It was frustrating to go to so many stores and not get what I needed.

When I went to Home Depot to look at 42" wall shelf, they said to order on-line for this particular shelf.  We tried.  Order off the internet?  Yep.  Brick and mortar store did not have what I was wanting.  Internet.  Alrighty then.

Hubby checked on the internet and ordered some hanging cedar and blocks.  They'll be at my door on Thursday.  At my door.  I suppose I should have just ordered on-line in the first place, but I did not think it was going to be so difficult to find what I needed.  Also ordered some supplements, checks and that wall shelf that I have been thinking about for half a year.  The internet can be extremely handy, huh?  Especially in the year 2026.  Coming to my door! 

 

Back to shopping in Manhattan.  I forgot when I was at TARGET to get my Husband's favorite TEA these days, Earl Grey.  I'll need to go back and purchase some plus some Vanilla Comoro. Not ordering on-line unless the store is OUT. 🙍 

I think high techie shopping where I use the internet hasn't been my cup of tea, but I guess I need to adjust and admit that I have to be like a pioneer at times and get my stuff off the Wells Fargo Wagon and a train stopped at the depot where I get the supplies I've been waiting for months to get.  I am spoiled for sure and I grew accustomed to simply going to the local store for this and that without any wait or hassle.  It was customary to do so.  With all the conveniences these days, I think we have gone backwards at times.  Keeping it interesting.

I don't like having to change at times.  I get use to doing things a certain way and I don't like the inconvenience of having to do it differently because the market says so.  Rebellion arises in me and I protest.  It doesn't get me very far at times, does it?

The convenience of ordering something from HOME on the internet and the item being brought straight to my door is fantastic.  HOWEVER there are times, we order something and it's dropped off at the POST OFFICE.  Not a huge inconvenience.  I am spoiled.  There are better things to do with my energy than complain.  Tadaah.  

I took the WINTER wreaths off of the front doors.  Time to place SPRING WREATHS there.  Not sure what I still have in storage, but I think something spring-like will go along ways in preparing my heart for the reality of SPRING approaching.  32 days!  March 20th.  Praise the LORD!!!  I believe I will start refreshing the house.

March 20th was my Granddaughter's expected delivery date for her first baby.  Presently she is in the HOSPITAL awaiting a C-section when the doctor believes it's an okay date to take the baby girl.  Probably February 24th.  Praying for so many involved with this baby.  This is a high risk pregnancy where the placenta split.  Extremely dangerous.  Baby and Mother are both at risk. Prayers appreciated.

I weighed myself this Monday morning.  Sure enough, weight gain.  I knew it before I stepped on the scales.  I cannot eat bread and butter from the LONGHORN.  I can't eat chocolate candy as if there are no consequences.  Back to eating better.  It is so easy for me to get sidetracked when Hubby fixes a gourmet meal.  Smaller portions when this happens.  Smaller everything.  I'm patting myself on the back because I seldom drink milk, seldom eat bread, rice, pasta.  After experimenting with what I do eat, I do better losing weight avoiding eating starchy foods and meats.  SOOOOOO, if I know this I must discipline myself ONCE AGAIN to eat mostly fruits and veggies.  Some nuts and seeds.  Some beans.

Smoking, soda pop, coffee and alcohol are not my problem.  My problems are many, but these are NOT them.  My thyroid issue is them. 

I do have a sweet tooth especially around Valentine's Day, Halloween and Christmas.  Easter as well.  I think I have been brain washed into thinking I MUST HAVE SWEETS AROUND THE HOLIDAYS.  OVERLOAD required.  

I may have to detox my thought life of being brain washed with mind control thoughts.  Did you ever think that you could be trained into eating the wrong things?  I know I was and did not question it until I was much older.  I have a rebellious streak in me that wants its own way and if I have been brainwashed then that's the way it wants.  Back talking the controlling mind sets has been a spiritual battle for me.  Truly it has been.  If I tell myself, I am not deprived because I skipped eating bread, pasta, rice, potatoes then I have an internal voice tell me that I am deprived.  Sulk.  Whine.  Complain.  

I have to talk back to myself to remind myself that I am blessed and not deprived that GOOD things happen when I strive to be healthier and that means I have to embrace healthy eating, not just eating.  

I may sound like I have a skew loose when I confess things, but I think sometimes we must lose the skews and become someone who does things differently than how we were raised or were forced into to survive.

I believe that my spending habits need an overhaul as well.  I have been enjoying my HUSBAND'S RETIREMENT going on 6 years.  AGAIN, we are overhauling our spending.  I'm calling it a PIP.  Profit IMPROVEMENT Program.  Today, I am working on our BUDGET to see where we can STOP spending MONEY.  What the basics are, etc.  As we downsize the belongings, I will be downsizing spending.  I like shopping the thrift stores, but even then one can overspend. I would qualify.  A text book example.

Remember MARY HUNT, the author who became well known after sharing her story of how she used credit cards until she practically put their house in foreclosure?  Her Husband suddenly lost his job.  She took ten years to get the credit cards paid off in 2014 when at that time she had debt to the tune of $100,000.00.  She went from a spendaholic to cheapskate.  I use to read her newsletter.  I may begin again.

I know when I was a young, married woman that I did the envelope system before I knew anything about Dave RAMSEY's way of saving.  I was ahead of the game back in the day.  I may return to this as well.  When the money is gone that has paid the bills, it's gone until the next pay day.

A CHRISTMAS SAVINGS ACCOUNT needs to return so Christmas isn't such a shock when giving gifts. 

UTILITY ACCOUNT.  Presently, I am paying off the arrears on the utility bill which we have because of being on the even payment plan.  Keeping this low pays off when at the end of the year the arrears has to be zeroed out before the new year starts.  Coming up with the arrears in December hurts as Christmas needs to take a priority.  Sometimes, I think we are suppose to be made out of money to survive.  Wrong thought.

~Lunch~

LUNCH was scrambled soy-free eggs, toast with real butter and Manuka honey also organic asparagus.  No Breakfast today, but HOT TEA.  So that would be intermittent fasting where I went a good 14 hours without eating.  Supper will be more veggies and fruit for sure.  Water throughout the day and more hot tea at break time.

Time to take a short nap/quiet time so I have energy to fulfill the rest of the day.  This afternoon, I have plans of refolding blankets and bedding then placing them in stackable bags for safe keeping.  This chore will all come together and I will be the better for it.  Amen.  I'm rounding up my large TEDDY BEARS and placing them in a sturdy storage box until I figure out where they are going to live.  sigh.  Something so simple becomes harder than I ever imagined when there's a lack of space.  My thinking skills need some help.  Help.

I can do this thang,
~d on the prairie