Drive By - Hi all!

Deanne, please send me your email address. I've misplaced it.
Thank you!

Jerri

Evening all,

Well, Doug is out on a mission to run errands and is probably picking up some last minute gifts. I checked all the plants and didnt see evidence of a single aphid. Whoopie! Im a pessimist though and dont expect that to last. Ill have to keep checking and see if they stay clean. It would be so much easier without the bugs. I really have to get my cards done tomorrow and then start wrapping. Ive still not gotten into the ribbon and paper thing yet but when I do get out of the way as you might wind up with a big bow on your head. LOL

Eden, love the pics of your Mom and Dad. Marvelous! What a fantastic room that is with all those windows! Gorgeous. ~~ RE cookware, Ive had the same set of Farberware pans for 30 years or so and they are still in great shape and I still love them. Im looking forward to cookie pics.

Denise how interesting you have a snow photo in your home. That hibiscus makes a lovely accent. ~~ How sad your DBs no longer speak to each other. I've lived with that myself. Ive had several sibs stop talking to me over the years for no apparent reason.

Bug BRAVO! Gorgeous photos of the farm in winter. That barn of yours is so beautiful in all seasons.

Eileen I just love all your photographs but especially love the antique glass vignette. Marvelous! Is that all yellow glass or do you have any amberina glass in that collection. Ive got some beautiful old amberina pieces from the late 1800s that I just love. ~~ Thanks for the link to the site with the raptor photographs. Ive never been there but will have to get myself and camera down there sometime. Stunning photos.

Kathy, Im putting a link to the Gnarly Head home page. The winery is in Manteca, CA. I dont know where that is located but they sure do make a good zin.

OK time to get my jammies on and get tucked in for the night.

Deanne

Trying to keep up...and loving this thread so much! Eden, that picture of your Mom & Dad is wonderful! As is Ei's family photo that special year when Chatty Cathy magically appeared. The amber coloured glass display is special! Lots to take in here!

Tonight I made 'croque monsieur' for dinner. Basically they are cheese and ham sandwiches. I had to come up with quick & easy food as tomorrow is going to be crazy with fancy dinner prep for the ladies. Then Friday I'm supposed to come up with something for French Club's holiday party. Saturday we LEAVE! YEAH!

DH was thrilled to get his Christmas gift today: 2 pairs of jeans! LOL! I had to take him along to try them on. I was tired of him going to work at the university with a hole in one pant knee. The dress code there is something....

DD's foot casts were to straighten her feet. Essentially they were trying to 'put the shoes on the wrong feet' to do this. The legs were fine though. Her position before birth was the cause of it all. Never a problem for her, but for me it was tricky removing the casts every 2 weeks by soaking her legs in the sink and unwinding the messy bandages.

Excitement Countdown:
5 days until we see DD & family!
5 days until puppies are expected!
5 days until I MUST be packed and get my hair trimmed!
5 days until I can RELAX!

so tired....
'bug

Only a slight slow down in postings today I see, as many of us returned to places of business where we actually had to do Work !

Eileen, what a nice variety of photos you shared with us today..love seeing your owls and more 50s décor ,,I too had a Chatty Cathy she was my favorite ! I didnt care about the talking part so much as I liked the detail in her eyes and the freckles ..I guess she seemed to look more realistic than other dolls of that era .

bug your pics make that snow look downright inviting. (provided one has proper wardrobe selections-especially shoes !) The be-ribboned bell would make a lovely Christmas card photo .

Eden, what wonderful windows those are in your Mom and Dads house ..is there a view ? Maybe we need to see some more pics of Georgie too ! Its good to see your Mom with a big smile . I have two Farberware saucepans that Ive had since the late 70s. I only use them for certain things , but they are used often. The rest of my cookware is Calphalon, from various series that I have picked up on sale. I love my Calphalon, but when I win Lotto Im going to buy a whole set of All-Clad !

Anise, I have never suffered from migraines , thank goodness, but how good that you have learned a method of control that works well for you. Its remarkable sometimes what power the mind has to turn around a negative situation. Lol with the décor-mad GD covering every surface. Ive sure edited the stuff I put out every year its kind of fun to skip a year with some things ;it makes them seem like new again the next time.

Deanne, makes sense that Gnarly Zin would come from Manteca- its hotter that h**l there in summer-just the ticket for Zin.

Ok, thats it for me tonightHi to all !

Kathy in Napa

Good Morning Idylls! I'm in a rush, but just wanted to say to Eden how good it is to see your mom. I admire her greatly and am keeping her in my good thoughts. I hope each day finds her feeling just a little bit better. That's a sweet picture of your mom & dad. Love the tree too and the great window...what a lovely view it must be. As far as cookware, I don't even know what I have...LOL...I know it's stainless. I would like to get a nice caphalon set sometime. I do still have my mom's old "Guardian Service" dutch oven, which is great for making stews and casseroles in the oven, but is extremely heavy.

Denisez...I love that picture of your brothers, what charming young boys and the outfits are the best....maybe you should send them each a copy of that pic and they will remember too the fondness & happiness they shared with each other. I love those curtains too...wouldn't you love to have them now? If I remember correctly the curtains were a shimmery taupe color, the "squares" were turquoise and roses were pink...very pretty! Ed & Marion were always on the cutting edge of fashion. Everything in their house was beautiful...of course they didn't have kids! :-)

Bug I love your Country Christmas montage...so inviting!

Wendy...how do you like your caphalon? Are they lighter weight since they are not the commercial ones? My wrists can't handle heavy pots and pans anymore.

So there were other Chatty Cathy lovers too I see. Your right Kathy, she did seem very realistic to me too. Was laughing to myself today, cause I was just thinking how ironic that I wanted a CC so bad. My brother use to call me motor mouth when I was a kid.and apparently I haven't quite grown out of it...LOL, but I do really have to go now....

Have a great day all! Ei

Oops, also meant to say...

Deanne, I have seen amberina pieces and love them, but don't have any. Wow! You have some from the 1800's?...How neat...were they handed down in the family?

Okay really going now...Have a great day all! Ei

Only one week left and still much to do. I really should get out and finish up the last of the shopping today, but I doubt that I will:) Then there's wrapping, grocery shopping for Christmas dinner (I'm helping out Jenni by making some of it), and I still haven't gotten to that pesky baking. Too many drop in visitors yesterday. I didn't get a thing done. Some days just seem to end up that way.

Seems to be lots of Farberware in this group. I agree Ei about the heavy pots, the Le Creuset we got my mom is really too heavy for her to handle.

Thanks for all your comments on the pic of my mom and dad. I really like that picture because my mom looks so happy. For those who asked, there is a view out the window. Lake Huron is about 60 ft. from the house. They live on Presque Isle Harbor. Lots of sailboats that drop anchor there for the night in the summer, beautiful sunrises, and even a lighthouse can be seen from their house.

Marie, I'm excited for you! Bet you can't wait to get that baby in your arms!

Denise, great picture of the brothers. And I'm jealous of that bathroom picture. The windows OPEN and it looks like summer outside. I see LEAVES on the trees.

Anise, the migraines sound awful. I've never known anyone who suffers from them. I think homeschooling would take much discipline on the parents part. We considered it but opted for private school instead. One drawback I think homeschooled kids can have is lack of socialization with other children unless the parents are really vigilant in getting them involved in outside activities. At least that's what I've observed with some of the homeschooled kids I know. I admire parents who are able to do it well.

I must get started on that baking today. Deanne maybe YOU should bake and post the pictures to motivate me, lol!

Leaving you with a few more decorations. This time in the kitchen.

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Notice the pastry shoes on the elf in this next one.

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Here's another Dr. Suess one for Martie

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I love this last one. My kind of Santa!

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Just a quick run past...
I saw this outside the kitchen door and thought of Sue right away! Doesn't it look like Dairy Queen to you?

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Back to cooking....
'big

'big is more appropriate I guess, but that was supposed to be 'Bug of course.

LOL, I was wonderin' if that was intentional because of the cooking comment :) Whichever, it made me smile!

I miss Sue :( TGIF's just aren't enough...

Eden

I believe the gifts are all wrapped. I have a long shopping list for all the food I plan to make. Ricks kids will be here this Sat. to celebrate.

As for pots and pans, I started with a fairly cheap set from Montgomery Ward. When I got my smooth top I decided I didnt really need that many, so I picked a few here and there. I have a Tools of the Trade (Macys brand) an Onieda for pans and for frying pans I have a Pampered Chef and a Wearever of which all seem quite nice. My DD will be getting Farberware.

Eden, your decorations are so fun. I love the cookbook holder and the toy stove with the yummy cake on it. I have to admit though the monkey is a little creepy. Is he related to the creepy guy? Where is he by the way? What a sweet picture of your parents and a lovely home to boot. What a nice area to live.

Kathy, I thought the coolest things about Chatty Cathy were the little records and the glasses.

bug, interesting that you removed the casts yourself. I took my DD to the Dr. office and they used a cast saw to get them off. The first set came off at about 6 weeks of age and I needed to be escorted from the room as I nearly fainted when they used that saw on my baby.

Denise you will need to post pictures of your sweet peas on Christmas, as Im sure we wont see that here. I love your bathroom!

Im glad Wendy relearned how to post pictures. Our Jaden tends to get that smiling look too.

Did someone mention Dairy Queen? Im getting hungry here.

Michelle

At the neighborhood Christmas cookie party and today at work, all everyone wanted to talk about was the crashing real estate market/subprime loan debacle. Ho, ho, ho.

Ei, I really should send copies of that photo to my brothers, anonymously, no letter, just the photo. Knuckleheads.

I like it that all I need do to get a rise out of Eden is take a picture of an open window, lol. Marvelous details in your decorations, Eden, but the monkey man, lol, to be brutally honest, he's up there with creepy guy, like something out of Ray Bradbury. I wouldn't go near the kitchen after dark -- hmm, maybe I should get me a scary monkey man for my kitchen, lol, or start signing my name like 'bug/'big ;>) I got a little thrill to recognize a children's book author you mentioned, Jan Brett, from my own days bringing home stacks of books for the boys from the library. And the Snowman, too. Animated version narrated by David Bowie, right?

I have such affection for libraries. They are truly sanctuaries. Since I was working nearby, I stopped by the downtown LA library to check out their way cool gift shop. I bought a Harry the Dirty Dog book and stuffed Harry, 50th anniversary edition, from the shop a few months ago for my
2 yo niece.

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'bugs photo looks like an enlargement of a gingerbread house detail. I was sure I spotted a Bouvier today and asked the owner about his dog, but he had no idea. Are they always pure black? This one was greyish.

Just refreshed to read Michelle's comment re monkey man! Glad it's not just me that gets creeped out by it. Michelle, too funny re the docs bringing out a saw near your tender baby. I bet your knees buckled at the sight, I know mine would've.

I KNEW I'd get a rise out of you guys with the monkey! His name is Klancy and he usually holds our bananas for us. I thought he might bring Chelone back in with a comment. As for Creepy Guy, he decided he wanted to wait until gardening season to travel, more photo ops for him that way. He'll eventually make it out of here.

Denise. it is David Bowie narrating The Snowman I believe. Just looked up Harry TDD. Bella would like him and what a cute stuffy. One of our favorite dog books, besides Clifford...

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Maybe that'll get a comment out of Sue??? or Monique???

Michelle, I remember when Megan had to have a cast sawed off her arm in 5th grade. I told her she screamed louder than a woman in labor. She was scared to death they were going to saw her arm off. Not a good memory for her or me. I couldn't have watched them do it to a baby either.

Our Dairy Queen's still open here. It only closes Jan. and part of Feb. It has a drive thru though. It's the only one I know of that stays open that long.

I'm procrastinating. I hate cleaning bathrooms and that's the last thing on my list for today.

Eden

Marie, I keep meaning to share this website with you for Skyler, (and of course the other grandmas and moms too). Especially look at the holidays and toys sections.

Eden

Oops! I was moving things around in my picturetrail account and accidentally deleted the picture in my post above. Here it is again...

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Creepy Guy=Angela Lansbury, Monkey Guy=Soupy Sales with bad teeth.

Denise, the pic of LA library takes me back. Right up there with City Hall, Pershing Square and the Broadway on (I think) 9th St.

We are in the midst of our predicted three days of rain. All good for thirsty Norcal, not the mention the ski resorts up in Tahoe they had a pretty puny time last year.
Since I run a purchasing department, you can imagine the parade of vendors who have been coming forth with boxes of candy , cookies etc. I told one of the buyers today that we should have asked the rep who brought the tin of home made almond roca today to bring a nice Caesar salad instead. We are starting to OD on sweets.

Eden your description of the view out your Mom and Dads window sounds so great. I could just pull up a chair and sit there for hours. I am hoping to have some sort of a view in my new home in Oregon. It wont be anything like that (I have seen nothing in my price range with a view of the Willamette River) but there are planty of homes on the market now that have views of the Cascades or the western hills in the area. Oh, and of course there will be the view of my very own fabu-fabu garden, lol !

Bug Dairy Queen to be sure !

OK , all for now, and where the heck is Chelone this week ?

The start of my downfall was Saturday afternoon, when I thought I was caught up on my idylls but completely missed the start of this one.

Then off to a wonderful gathering Saturday evening in the midst of a snowstorm, where I was tempted by an hors d'oeuvre that was harboring some hidden avocado. Revenge (avocado style) came Sunday afternoon. Dang it all - I can't even have a bite of avocado without suffering the most distressing consequences! I now know I have to ask if something even looks green...

Anyway, I still had a wonderful weekend and a great start to the work week. This idyll has been great reading and viewing this evening. The pictures have been just great.

A quick Chatty Cathy story that I may have shared before. I had a CC that I really loved and one day I took her in the car when we went to visit family friends. In a fit of pique, my brother grabbed her and flung her out of the window on a busy road, and she was run over by another car. I was heartbroken. At the time, there was a nationwide truckers strike going on, and my parents had both been laid off because the plant couldn't get goods in or out. Now I can appreciate the situation they were in, but back then I just wanted a new Chatty Cathy. Well, my mom finally came through with a new doll, but about every third time you pulled the string she slurred her words. Turns out she was defective but my mom got a great price on her because of that, and that's how she could afford to replace the doll for me. Chatty Cathy broke a lot of hearts in her day!

Time to make the coffee and figure out if I have anything to take for lunch tomorrow. I ended up having pizza at my MIL's which was nice but left me with no leftovers! TTFN,

V>

LOL, Eden, last year one of the partners in our outside CPA firm had to go in and read for one of his kid's classes. He chose Walter and borrowed my fart machine for effect...lol. Catholic school too-would have liked to have seen how well that would have gone over 30 years ago.

Marie, most of the DQs are closed for the season here now. Hate this snow and ice. It looks more like January or February out there than December. Only three more months til spring.

OK, gotta run to a staff meeeting. Later...

Sue

LOL Sue...I like to look at it as positively as possible too..Once we get past January, it's a breeze; February is a short month & and there are days in March that give us hints of spring! :-)
Ei

Good morning all,

Well it seems that the trip to the post office last week was an irritation in more ways that one. Ive come down with a nasty cold and that is the only place I could have picked this up. Im doing the Zicam/Nyquel-Dayquel thing and have hunkered down to ride this out. For some reason it isnt uncommon for me to catch cold at Christmas time. Dont know why it just is. I can remember one year I was in the Choir on Christmas Even and had the worst case of laryngitis going. I was heartbroken that I couldnt sing when wed been practicing for Midnight Mass for weeks.
I totally concur with Sue, it looks like January/February outside and is just a bit too winter like for me before winter even begins. But after the solstice the days will be getting longer again and at that will cheer me up.

The kitties are driving me crazy. They desperately want to go out but as soon as you put them out they desperately want to come in. And so it goes all day long. This morning Rahjii attacked the Christmas tree, yanked an ornament off and ran through the house with it with me chasing him to retrieve the bauble. Should have been recorded and on Americas funniest home videos. I wasnt thinking too clearly because of my stuffed up head but realized afterwards that Rahjii thought that was a very entertaining interlude and so Ive probably primed him to pull that stunt again. Youd think he was a kitten instead of a five year old cat. As Ive said previously, Im well trained by my felines.

Im enjoying all the Chatty Cathy stories. My one year younger sister (the one who used to be named Denise) had one and guarded her jealously. I forget what I was playing with at that time but it probably had to do with shovels and rocks. LOL

Eden thanks for the pics. I have to agree with everyone that the Monkey is a bit scary. I know they have all those teeth but hes really got a set of chompers on him. Hope you get to your cookies today. Im thinking I"ll be sitting in this chair blowin my nose and feeling sorry for myself most of the day.

OK Im going to see about taking a nap.

Have a great day everyone,
Deanne

After my dinner event last night and DH being out late at his Christmas do, well, the ringing of the phone before 8AM was not amusing...Naturally, I didn't let on.

So I made my favourite vegetarian meal from the Sundays at Moosewood Restaurant cookbook: Domaca Gibanica. (I use low cal cheeses, otherwise my arteries would shut down.) It is basically a mix of vegetable, 3 cheeses, egg, dill etc. all wrapped in phyllo pastry. Fortunately there's enough left over for dinner tonight.;)

Took some photos: (Having a camera in the kitchen takes getting used to I am finding!)
Cooking the grated carrots, onions and currants-
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Adding the vegetables to the cheeses and herbs for the filling-
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Phyllo spread under and above the filling- brushed with butter
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While this was baking, I managed to change clothes, set the serving area up , start a fire in the wood stove, open wine, etc...

We discussed our easy read book (Digging to America by Ann Tyler) then gossiped and laughed while eating dessert. May I heartily recommend President's Choice lemon tart once more? (Woody, it's quite tart, comes in a brown box from the freezer section.) I found lingonberry sauce to pour on top of it.
This is all that remained, but this morning the plate was empty. Funny how that happens!
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It is gloomy and grey today, 35F. A bright male cardinal at the feeder certainly helps! This is a day to get going on laundry and packing! THREE more days!!!!
;)
'big/'bug

Received this message today...:)
Wisdom of the Jewish Buddhist

If there is no self, whose arthritis is this?

Be here now. Be someplace else later. Is that so complicated?

Drink tea and nourish life; with the first sip, Joy. With the second sip, satisfaction, With the third sip, peace, With the fourth, a Danish.

Wherever you go, there you are. Your luggage is another story.

Accept misfortune as a blessing. Do not wish for perfect health, or a life without problems. What would you talk about?

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single Oy!

There is no escaping karma. In a previous life, you never called, you never wrote, you never visited. And whose fault was that?

Zen is not easy. It takes effort to attain nothingness. And then what do you have? Bupkis!

The Tao does not speak. The Tao does not blame. The Tao does not take sides. The Tao has no expectations. The Tao demands nothing of others. The Tao is not Jewish.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out. Forget this and attaining Enlightenment will be the least of your problems.

Let your mind be as a floating cloud. Let your stillness be as a wooded glen. And sit up straight. You'll never meet the Buddha with such rounded shoulders.

Deep inside you are ten thousand flowers. Each flower blossoms ten thousand times. Each blossom has ten thousand petals. You might want to see a specialist.

Be aware of your body. Be aware of your perceptions. Keep in mind that not every physical sensation is a symptom of a terminal illness.

The Torah says, Love your neighbor as yourself. The Buddha says, There is no self. So, maybe we're off the hook.

Wow Eden, I love your kitchen! I especially love the icicles :) Monkey man just needs a little day at the spa and dentist, that's all :)

I am reading for Sarah's class in January....wonder if I can find a fart machine in time ?

Deanne, what a bummer about the cold. I try to always add alot of saline spray to the mix - seems to make my nose more comfy. I buy a bunch of bottles and throw them away after my cold is over. I hope you feel better - I'm sending good vibes your way :)

Busy here...yesterday was the Christmas pageant and as far as I could tell, I was the only one there with tears streaming down my face :) She had a solo on the microphone and I was so proud.

Finally met with the personal trainer and got the beating of my life....at least that what it felt like the day after :)

Tried to do Christmas shopping...futile effort.

Wow, baby Reed and Baby Bouvier all on the same day....I'd burst with joy :) I showed the kids and think think your house looks frosted, too.

I had a rough snow storm. I didn't get the area in front of my street plowed and another guy plowed his snow down the street and plowed up my new grass - the same guy who plowed up my garden and my hedge two years ago. This town needs a new sherriff - it's gone lawless :) I was kept awake by snowmobiles last night and don't get my started on the ATVs....I live in the TOWN, not in the country.

Anyway, more snow is coming and I'm afraid I might blow my stack, soon.

TTYL,
Saucy

Check out the link Saucy.

Hi to everyone else!!!

Christmas shopping is finished for me! And I just ordered a fart machine. Hope it gets here for the festivities on Christmas day. After that Bella can use it for Walter sound effects while I read to her. I know Brad will love it too.

Hi Monique, how are you?

Poor Deanne! Hope the cold doesn't last long.

Saucy, My neighbors tease my that I'm the neighborhood police here. I keep an eye on things.

Marie, YUM!

The monkey must be cuter in person? Or maybe he just has a good personality :)

Nap time for Bella and ME...

Eden

Buy a fart machine? Here's ours (no need to change batteries):

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6 Days 'til the Santa Slide

5 Days 'til we get to sing Silent Night by candlelight

4 Days 'til I pick up the roast beast

3 Days 'til Winter Solstice

2 Days 'til Kyle is Home

1 Day 'til no work until December 27

0 Days 'til I am no longer my brother's Conservator

I can't begin to tell you all how much the Idylls have kept me sane during the last week. It may sound smaltchy, but seeing the kids and pics and hearing the laughter in the writing has been just what I've needed.

Long story short: During a meeting with the Director of a restricted group home and his Social Worker, my brother decided he didn't want to be there. We didn't leave that second. He got aggitated, stood up, walked across the office and slapped me.

That was that. No more will I try and do what's good for someone too spoiled (no matter what the illness) to do something he didn't want to do for five more minutes. It was absolutely calculated and he admitted it with a lame "I couldn't get your attention."

The pros just stood there while I was holding off more swings. Me at 5'3" and 115lb and him at 6'2" and 240. My feeling at this point is they all fit each other.

The most horrid part? That was the second facility we visited. He really liked the first one, they liked him, and applications were made on the basis that there had been NO violence toward others for 18 months. We visited the second just to be sure. He knew that. He had a chance to get out of an institutional setting and in his way, decided that that's were he wanted to stay. What more can I possibly do???

It's always the family that takes the brunt. We all know that it's easiest to lash out and the people closest to you, but I don't need to be the one in his way.

So now I need to work with his Conservator of Succession to get his accounts transferred and the family is completely out of the loop in terms of where he goes. Even my parents are somewhat relieved. For the behavior, if he weren't ill he'd be in jail.

Just Incredibly Sad.

And so am I.

So, in three days it will start being lighter than darker in more ways than one!!!! We continue to deck the halls, Kyle survived his Paris/Amsterdam trip intact enough to make it to his morning classes today, there's enough snow for snowmen and a fort in the front yard over school vacation, and in some places, there's even Peace on Earth.

Bali worked, Marie!!

Best to all, and to all a good night.

(Eden's monkey is a spitting image of my sister's 'bananna man'. It's not as creepy in person as in a picture :-)

Martie

Oh Martie! Big hugs from me.... I've dealt with my youngest brother's mental illness for a very long time. Doug and I used to always the the family people on call for every emergency that came up regarding him. One time after years of in and out of institutions, jail etc., etc., he'd gotten violent again and was threatening my mother. Doug and I went to help her out and DB assulted Douglas. Punched him in the face, knocked him out just because DB wasn't going to get his own way. (DB wanted money from my mother. BTW DB is also 6'2" and weighed in at 250 at that time.) Anyway, after that I had to take exactly the same step away from him and the situation that you are doing. It IS very sad, but you can't change him or the situation and you've given it your best. You need to take care of your life.

Deanne

Martie, I'm so sorry to hear this. I know you've always went above and beyond in support of your brother. It is very sad but Deanne's right, you have to take care of you. You know that you've been the best sister you could be. I'm so glad you'll have Kyle home with you soon. Hang in there friend.

Eden

Hugs to Martie. Somehow in my heart I feel this is a similar battle to the one between aging parents and retirement institutions and medical care. We try so hard, want to make a difference...and then, maybe, have to face reality...or try to change reality...or something. UGH. My brother is trying to help 3 children with borderline personality disorder...a terrible and increasing problem these days. His attempts are blocked at every turn. It is so complicated and incredibly sad sad sad.
When we invest love, time, intelligence and more into wanting to help family, these responses are so cruel.
Big hugs to all families.

You have such a wonderful spririt Martie....I know this must be hard for you. I too am glad Kyle will be home soon. It'll be a good direction to focus your energy.

I hope that you are physically okay, too.

Forts in the front yard are my favorite....did they make it brick by brick? We always use those gladware containers for bricks.

Saucy

What an awful time you've had, Martie. Your compassion comes through in all you write, and it must be so sad to know you've done as much as is humanly possible. That's a great countdown list, just keep checking 'em off!

Hi everyone. A very busy week for me and this is the first time I've been on line since Saturday.

It's snowing again (on top of the 10" that crusted over after it turned to freezing rain) and the guys are DELIVERING SHEETROCK in the dark. Better them than your's truly. They popped the front triple mullion out of the frame and the guy manning the arm is GENIOUS.

I have only quickly scanned the pictures (loved them!) and hope to persude Eden to put her's up again when I have more time to peruse carefully.

Marian! I had no I idea you are such a wicked "dish"! :) (oh, "wicked" is noHtheHn New England for "very"... "wicked fast"=very fast. "Wicked dish"=really pretty).

There you go Chelone. I think I put them all back. I'd taken some down because there are so many pictures on this thread. I was afraid it was slowing down too much for some.

Glad you're back!

Eden

((Martie)) How sad for all of you!

gb - anything lemon that President's Choice makes, we can do better! (and with less bad fat etc. too I'll bet...) :-) The PC test kitchens used to be in the lab Randy worked for ages ago. I'm sure you'll be having a wonderful time out west - and I hope you have time to post pictures....

Things are a bit hectic here. Jasper and Blue arrived Monday morning - the pantry is now full of dog food! Three weeks supply of food for these two is a LOT of food! MIL+FIL arrived yesterday at supper time. MIL's slow decline continuing; FIL looking tired and stressed...

SIL and son arriving tomorrow (I think) but they're staying with BIL. Her plans got disrupted on the weekend - they were going to NY before coming here but got stuck in Toronto on Sunday with the snow storm so they were planning on staying one more day in NY to make up for the lost day in transit.

Several shortbread batches and a batch of gingerbread men completed on Tuesday. We delivered a bunch of them to our two buddies at the long term care facility this afternoon.

We've ordered new furniture for the smallest bedroom (which mainly is used for things like ironing and is where my exercise bike 'lives'. In 8 years, we've only needed to use it as a bedroom once! So we've ordered a day bed with storage drawers underneath and a new small dresser. That will give us more storage space. The room is one of the warmest in the house (directly over the furnace...) so it's a cozy spot to be on cold days. The day bed will make it more comfy for curling up there to read. The furniture is supposed to arrive Dec. 28 so we have to disassemble the current bed and move everything out right after Christmas.

Mild and melting here today but there's lots of snow around still - lots of wet feet when there's three dogs going in and out regularly!

Good evening Idylls

I've really got too much going on to be here but I wanted to pop in so give Martie a big hug ((((((Martie))))). I'm so glad Kyle will be home soon to add some light to your life. What a heatbreaking time you have had.

GB - how yummy!!

Deanne - miserable to have picked up a cold. I hope the Zicam does its magic. I'm so sorry Doug had such a terrible time getting back from Rochester. He is welcome to call anytime, and even if we are busy he might enjoy watching a Karate class or meeting up somewhere. I know those nights in a hotel can get very long. We'll definitely make a date for January.

I'm still laughing at the idea of reading Walter with Sound effects from the fart machine.

I'm having a mild panic attack at the thought of having 30 people over for a party on Saturday and not having the time to declutter or clean - yikes. I'm might need to pull a late night Friday in order to leave Saturday free to cook (I'm doing a full dinnner). I'm rather peeved at the people who didn't respond to the RSVP by the date I'd asked. I'm pretty sure they are all coming based on converstions with my friend whose birthday we are celebrating, but to not have the courtesy to make a simple call bugs me. Especially after I spent hours making handmade invitations - ACK!

Eden - your holiday pictures put me in such a festive mood! Seeing Green Eggs reminds me of my favorite Dr Zeus lines - so fitting for this week of the year:

"And the Grinch, with his grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow, Stood puzzling and puzzling: "How could it be so?" "It came with out ribbons! It came without tags!" "It came without packages, boxes or bags!" And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before! "Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store." "Maybe Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!"

In that vien I'll leave you with the website where I just finshed purchasing gifts of the very best kind. Apart from homemade items and sometimes books we only buy presents for the children so it seemed the perfect opportunity to extend giving to those who really need it. It certainly beats battling things out at the mall.

Mary

PS Dragonfly pins were a big hit at work. I don't know how to post instructions but can email them to anyone who is interested. Kathy - can you send me your addy?

Lizzie has had 2 of her 7 puppies tonight! One at 8PM, one at 8:45. One male, one female. It's going to be a long night for friends Bruce and Diane! I asked Bruce to be sure and get lots of photos. ;-)
Now how am I going to get a good night's sleep?

I keep forgetting to bring up a comment Martie made regarding outdoor holiday decorations, where I was describing some of my neighbors' over-the-top and garish outdoor holiday decor, and Martie had mentioned some of her grand displays from years past, which sounded lovely and not garish at all. I love all the lights on houses. Martie had said they had a gigantic PEACE sign on the roof, and we were inspired by that to go with PACE, less letters, all in lights. Haven't done it yet but DH was very taken with the idea. It may go on the main pediment. We'll see. Kinda last minute around here. But the tree is up, not a photogenic tree at all but a kid's tree, full of pirates, robots and bugs, animals and fruit. I've been amassing a collection for years, mostly from after-Christmas sales of the old-fashioned glass ones. The youngest son decorated it this year by himself, finding the snail ornament I bought last year for a surprise and pronouncing it his favorite, and all the busy Internet elves are doing my bidding, delivering gifts to relatives scattered across the contiguous 48. I like having elves. g'night, all.

Martie, I'm so sorry you had to go through that indignity. I wish you peace. You have done as much as you can for him.
I know its hard but don't dwell on it.

Everyones pictures have been great. From snowy branches to pajamied and dressed up children spanning the generations.
Sorry that I missed Ei's pics.

I've been frazzleing around trying to do all the things I've put off for to long.

Our snow melted somewhat the last two afternoons.

Went to Wyatt's little program. It was really short and sweet. Eden I loved the description you gave of Bella at hers. I see some resemblence of Bella to Meg in that adorable picture of Meg and Jenni.

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Wyatt's Mom and Dad took a detour on their way to the movies. No injuries but they missed the movie.
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Most of you may remember this photo from last year of me and my brother.
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Good Tidings to all and to all a goodnight. Norma

Norma, I love looking at the photo of you and your brother with your gifts....with the nice old phone, the desk, fruit, packages from afar.
But oh dear, that will be a movie to remember! I assume the pickup is OK?

I've had a stiff neck and shoulder for almost 3 weeks now. Who me complain? Never. Tomorrow will be another busy day of packing and preparations for our trip...but I hope to hear more news of the puppies!

Denise, Bouviers are well known for being fart machines, though Charlotte wasn't bad thank goodness.

Bonne nuit!
'bug

I can feel the hugs coming from coast to coast! Thanks so much, my friends. For some bizarre reason it is only here that I feel folks "get it" more often than not.

Two puppies 45 minutes apart! Not only am I feeling for the humans involved, I'm feeling for the Momma :-) How does picking who gets what puppy work? My mom used to sit all the buyers in a circle with the pups in the middle. The pups generally decided who they liked within seconds and I thought that was really cool. Only once was there a mismatch. Dogs are smarter than us, sometimes.

The fort isn't built yet, Saucy. Rich will erect some cut plywood for a base so it doesn't collapse from the bottom, and the kids build from there. Then, my watering cans come into service and water is poured over the whole thing to freeze. In years past we've had the abode up until April. Rich has far more fun than the kids, and it keeps EVERYONE occupied for a full few days. Since Rich doesn't have a job starting until after the first of the year, I thoroughly expect a small village to be erected :-) A fellow cul-de-sac adult has offered to use his pickup to import snow if needed.

'bug - Sending you a cyber massage ...

Deanne: I forwarded the bird pics to my dad, again, to sends his WOWOWOWOWOW!!! I knew you had a brother in a similar situation to mine, and I so appreciate you sharing your story. It's good to feel not alone in the understanding.

Everyone who posted pics of Christmas's past -- So many smiles! As the Holiday should be, it looks like (aside from Chatty Cathy) that everyone just loved being there. My Chatty suffered a drowning when a different younger brother wanted to know if she could swim, too. Don't remember what placated me from drowning +him+ but since he's still here and talking with me it mustn't have been too bad.

Good to see you pop in, Monique!

Had the chance to go to the Suess garden yesterday, Eden. If you're ever in New England be sure to bring Bella. Fantasy at it's best.

I still have your DS's cell number, Denise, but things have been a bit hectic. Sounds as though he's otherwise occupied, anyway :-) Holyoke is only 30 minute's drive from me, so if he gets antsy there, he can come here! We need our portrait done .... When will he be in Mass?

Today is party day in the office and other "seasoned" career women and I would rather come home, but the youngers are all excited and it'll be like watching our kids in some way. No booze as per current custom, thank heavens. I remember way too many office parties where people barely made it home.

A light dusting of snow is coming down and it absolutely serene outside. Hoping it's the omen for the day, and yours, too!!

Stay Warm in all ways!

Martie

Martie Hugs to you...what an awful, frightening experience. You are such a compassionate, caring person and a wonderful, loving sister to your brother. I know this decision must have been heart rending for you. I wish there were something I could say to make you feel better. I too am glad that Kyle will be home for the holidays.

Eileen

Just a quick pop in today. I've got a long list of things to do.

Norma, I'm glad no one was hurt. Driving on slippery roads is one of the things I hate most about winter. Great picture of you and your brother. I agree the children's Christmas programs are so sweet. Wyatt is getting so big. What a cute little guy he is. He looks like he's a really sweetie!

Marie, maybe you should name your new puppy Walter if it's a boy?

Deanne, are you feeling better today? Hope your cold's on it's way OUT!

Here's the scene I came upon when I walked into the kitchen yesterday evening. Guess Bud's more comfy than the chairs.

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Have a great day everybody.

Eden

Will someone please write a children's book titled Bud & Bella? No need for illustrations, we'll just use photos of Eden's house.

Martie if you really want a portrait done, just call Mitch's cell and he can come to you. One of his uncles can drive him.

I'm looking at the truck in the ditch photo and substituting my mini for the truck. My mini thinks he's the star of his own cartoon, but that truck is for real life, lol.

Gotta run (Puppies!)

Good morning all,

So I still have the cold but it isnt any worse so the Zicam is definitely helping. Hopefully Ill shake this off in a couple more days. Cough, cough sniffle, sniffle. Well its flipping snowing out again and we have another four inches of snow on top of the 20 or so inches of snow we already had on the ground. I seriously dont remember the last time we had this much snow before Christmas. The gardens are totally buried so thats a very good thing. At least the perennials have a nice blanket on them for the winter. The kitties hate being snow bound though. Rahjii will only go in areas that are shoveled so his normal haunts are off limits to him right now. The other day I put him out the breezeway door and he trotted up the path to the compost heap but when he wanted to come in he couldnt make his way over to the dining room door. I kept hearing him calling but couldnt find him. He was on the hot tub looking in the window at me from the other side. That cat cracks me up. The snow cover is pretty deep and has an ice layer so I imagine that would be a bit difficult to negotiate for a house cat. Weve got lots and lots of birds lately and Ive been out a couple times and gotten a few more pics. Ill post another thread when I get them sorted out. When I was looking at garden 07 photographs the other day it all seemed like a dream now.

Martie I really and truly feel you pain with your DB situation. It is heart breaking. Mental illness is a horrible, terrible thing. My DB is now permanently on dialysis because the meds hes had to take his whole adult life have ruined his kidneys. But would he have been better left without meds as a dangerous and violent person? He probably would have killed somebody by now if he werent treated for his illness. There are no answers or solutions. It is only a matter of dealing with it as best we can. ~~ So glad you enjoyed the bird photos and sent the link along to your dad.

Oh Eden! That photo of Bud and Bella is priceless! Love it, thanks for sharing that.

Norma glad to hear no one was hurt in that accident. I hope the truck is OK too. What a bummer. ~~ I love the pic of you and DB with the small tree on the table. Ive got a pic of one of our earlier Christmases and my parents also used to put a small tree up on a table like that.

Bug how exciting about the puppies!

Denise, Im with you on the internet elves.

Mary, Ill tell Doug about your kind offer. Ill bet hed probably love to see a karate class or music lesson some time. Those long nights in the hotel can be pretty lonely. ~~ Wow, 30 for dinner Saturday night before Christmas! Im impressed! Dont worry about cleaning the house. Just polish up the bathrooms and sweep the debris into the corners and turn on the Christmas lights. No one will notice the whole house wasnt polished up. These early dark evenings are good for something.

Woody, how neat youve gotten some new furniture for your guest room. WE put a futon in my extra room and it makes the space more usable but the futon opens up into a queen sized bed should it be needed. I do have a guest room that stays set up as a bedroom but DD has been using is since Easter. Ill be glad when she gets her own place so I can have the guest room back. We actually do have overnight guests several times a year and its nice to have the room ready.

Chelone, sounds like the Salon is going to be ready fairly soon. You must be getting excited.

Marian, I hope your kitties are OK with that coyote hanging about. My cats have been using the litter box here as well which is also not normal for them. Ive been having to scoop the box every day since the ground is covered with 20 inches of snow.

Denise, I think thats a terrific idea to do a children's book called Bud and Bella.

OK I guess Im going to get off this computer and go do something productive. Have a great day everyone.

Deanne

Happy Holidays, folks -- it's weird, I have not been joining in (just started to look this week) because I've been down from family events that took place over the event of Dad's surgery a few weeks ago -- and I didnt want to be a downer for what is a lovely memory board, here. I confess it really knocked the starch literally and physically out of me -- so I dont have any Xmas spirit -- and never got a tree or decorations.

But as always, you folks make me realize so many folks have common experiences and problems. Martie -- hugs to you -- I had something somewht similar w/ the physical attack occur to me w/ my psycho sister a couple weeks ago -- & even had to phone police for assistance -- and I subsequently decided, as you did, Deanne, re your family situation - that it was over time and overdue for me to step out of the Family Caretaker Job for now. Events of the last four years have taken their toll on my health, physical and mental, and the rest of my life. So I decided there's nothing materially worth risking those things for the sake of family dysfunctions that can't be solved or changed. It was disheartening to discover parental/family dynamics seem to stay the same too no matter what the age...

So, it's really good to hear the same words echoed by others here -- and bolsters me a bit.

In any case, I also wanted to say hello to all -- I have gotten some giggles here today from the naturalistic and synthetic fart machines, Burt & Bella's of the world, and lovely holiday memories. And to learn that there are others who didnt get to that Xmas decorating or silly other things that help our spirits along.

Life is getting on and Im lucky to have some great friends -- here and locally, LOL -- Im looking forward to 2008 and gardens, gardens, gardens. I've got a terrific DD & her husband too and we are fortunate to live close enough to share our holidays together -- it will be interesting to have it in their little space of 750 sq foot apt, LOL -- very cosy!

Mary -- 30 before Xmas -- I think Deanne gave you great advice -- those holiday lites have to be good for something.

Denise - I've hired those same internet elves this year - they do good work -- and I even had already ordered from your website, Mary -- I love the uniqueness of it - altho I was recently told of Oxfam's website that does U.S. type and international as well. Maybe next year I'll give that one a shot.

Im looking foward to taking next week off too and getting more R&R from the ofc antics -- I think my pity party is over and Im feeling more the "thing" -- I feel blessed to have the spirit and capability to do so, as it's not always a person's "choice."

On the houseguest topic, she & doggie have finally moved out a couple weeks ago, altho unfortunately all her stuff is still in my guestroom - I may have to start charging storage rental to get it out .... I really, really want it out so I can help get that part of my life back too next week by cleaning, and restoring the room -- cross our fingers on that one!

Eeew, this ended up being all about moi -- well, that's enuf of that!

So, somehow, the Xmas spirit is contagious whether I try to be a grinch or not -- keep it coming!

--Cindy

After your long absence, I think it's perfectly fair that this post be all about you :)

So sorry things have been rough - here's to the light at the end of the tunnel.

Saucy

Oh Cindy! It's so nice to have you here with us again.

Just a small bit of advice. Make sure that your guest's belongings are OUT FAST! You don't want her thinking that she could come back if the going got tough again.

Thinking of everyone, in both good and tough times.

(Back to work now...)

Oh my friends! I have had to the most excellent morning here, much of it thanks to YOU and the lively way you describe the little snippets of your lives. Such fun. It bouys my spirit to know there are so many, warm, gentle, and thoughtful people out there.

I am home today (duh)because there is nothing of great consequence going on in the shop, nothing that can't "keep" until tomorrow, at least. I assisted the helpmeet in hauling the remaining pieces of insulation up to the attic in the garage (fibreglass is nasty stuff). The drywallers are here and the installation is in progress (should go out and a "look-see"). The snow has stopped for now (more to come later on, I think), we have another 6" of very light powder. It's beautiful outdoors. And I'm particularly enjoying the snowfalls. It will be fun to mark the solstice and begin to watch the change in the morning sky until we monkey with the clocks again. ;)

Denise, your bathroom walls appear to be in the very color family I have in mind for the salon. I rather like Ben. Moore #619, "Copper Patina" on the card before me. :)

Another Chatty Kathy fan here! Mine had auburn hair and freckles over her nose (like me). Her dress was red and white and she arrived for my birthday. That was the same year my father presented me with a "party dress". It was apricot with a smocked bodice and a very delicate brown rosette with satin streamers at the waist. I grew up in a "neighborhood" and there were birthday parties around the block. The invitation would arrive in the mail and you either wrote back or called with your acceptance (Mary!). Girls wore dresses and "party shoes" and the boys got dressed up, too. Boys were ALWAYS on the guest list at that time. You played games, had cake and ice cream, the celebrant received small gifts, and then you played more games before going home afterwards. They were a TOTAL blast. Even though sometimes you had to write a thank you note. I can't top the drowning or Kathy being hurled out a car window. That's pretty funny stuff; was the "perp." the brother you just lost, V.?

The Christmas shots have made me grin and guffaw with regularity. I think Michelle must be about the same age as me... the "mod" slacks looks like something I'd have worn. Mum made most of my clothes, too and she was game to try anything... . I love Deanne with her sidearm defending the tea set against all comers, LOL. Tim "on the 'phone" is a good one, too. Count me as another observer of backgrounds and going back to "look again" and what some other shaHp eyed person has noted. Good, good fun.

Count me in as another who would move to Eden's house! You and Kathy and so many others share the same philosophy of giving that Mum and Dad did. Everyday was Christmas to them; if they spied something really special they'd just bring it home and present it, but there were only 2 kids at home, too! It was never about quantity anyway. I don't have Chatty Kathy any more but I do have some interesting toys from my childhood still (my Breyer model horses, Noah's Ark, Barbies, Ginny Dolls). I had big plans for Angela Lansbury! action shots with the snowblower, working on the Salon... you're wrecking it, Eden! :) And I howled over Soupy Sales with bad teeth... LOL.

Anita, "helpmeet" is a term for a spouse that dates from the middle ages. Sometimes you see it as "helpmate", but I like the other better. I like what it says to me: two people who help each other and meet each other half way. MOST of the time. I like that it makes people think for a split second, too. ;)

Homeschooling really does evoke connotations. To some it smacks of really, really fundamentalist religion and an effort to control the information a child receives. To others it is seen as a matter of practicality; liveaboards, for instance; homeschooling allows their families great freedom to do the sorts of things they want to do when they want to do them. My experience with homeschooled kids has been uniformly positive, but so much of how a kid relates to other kids is dependent upon other aspects of their home life and the social circles in which they and their parents move. (the drywallers left a bit ago because the foreman is going to his daughter's dance recital this afternoon. You should have seen him light up as he told me about her. He can't be much more than 24-25 yrs. old!).

BABY BOUVIERS... do we know how many there are yet? I think spring '08 is going to be a really "big" year, you guys.

Requisite cookware:
1.) good set of saucepans with snug lids a combination colander/steamer for a big soup/pasta pan.
2.) set of mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons, spatulas.
3.) cookie sheet, cake pans, pie plate, loaf pan, COOLING RACK.
4.) Pyrex casserole dishes and an oven thermometer.
5.) Roasting pan with rack.
6.) Potholders, oven mitts.

We bought our pots for our second anniversary, shortly after the yard sale special's handle fell off. They're by Meyer and have a thick, heavyish bottom. There are 3 saucepans, and the soup/pasta pan with the drain/colander/steamer thing that fits snugly inside it. It was under $100 and they work great (so I'm told). They're easy to wash, too. ;) I agree completely that they can't be too heavy. And large pots should have good, sturdy side handles for ease and safety.

I'm "big" on tools, anyway, you guys. Working doesn't HAVE to be drudgery if you have the right equipment to complete the "job" with relative ease.

The helpmeet dragged out the ladder on Tuesday and put some right angle hooks above the second floor windows. It was a complete "indulgence" for me. I made a few more decorations for the house last weekend. He was up on the ladder, predrilling for them. "You know, 'hon., I never thought I'd see the day when I cursed Colonial Williamsburg". He did tell me they looked nice, though.
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What do you guys think about a "jabot" of roping for the sides of the windows next year? It really was a blast to make these and they didn't take too long once I decided what I wanted to do. I think this could be a fun project for an older child; good history and science lessons easily linked to it. As for "aesthetics", I've tried to stay away from using ribbon, though all the fruit is fake. I think it was Kathy who mentioned the need for red; I agree!, but I've had a dickens of time finding fake berries in bright red. I love the real ones (Ilex verticillata or Blue Princess) but they look terrible in a week (so does real fruit). I also do best with needled evergreens if the weather is really cold/dry; I do condition the greens for a day/3 before but broadleaf sprigs blanche out fast.

My new boots have proven a real hit. Foolishly, however, I overlooked the purchase of some Yaktrax.
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My present cleats don't fit them, the driveway is a sheet of ice under the new snow, and the store is OUT OF THEM until January. Have to dig out a ski pole, I guess. :) But, walking carefully, I was able to get this shot:
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these two shots are from in the Salon:
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That is NOT my car out in the snow. This is the first time in my life I've not had to clean off a car after a snow. I missed all the hassle of the last ice storm and it was great. And, Wendy, I nodded in full agreement about removing the snow before it turns to cement, but leaving it on the cars because it's soft and easy to remove under the crust! A good brush and a couple of scrapers make it easier. The slush that remained here froze solid and the driveway is like a skating rink right now. I wonder what the rain for Sunday will do to it?