Pottery Chatroom Board

HAPPY BIRTHDAY REEN

Hello to Gil as well as all the potties. Marson who's expecting a predictable snowstorm overnight or not. we'll see what happens

The sun is shining, some ice is melting but it's going to be below zero today - with snow on the ground, below normal for this time of the year. Not much happening that's reportable on this side but prayers going out for the potties & those affected by the tornado in Mississippi and shooting of the children & teacher. When will this craziness stop, Marson

Shovelled the snow off the deck and the next door neighbour came with his snowblower & cleaned my driveway. May go out & move the snow further so it doesn't fill in later when more arrives.
Still working on sons estate issues which may drag into next year when it's time to do the taxes, etc.
The thrift store needs more volunteers as do all the other organizations who rely on volunteers - and now that Christmas is coming, they're looking for the delivery of food hampers & to drive people who party and don't "drink & drive" which is a good thing. May help friends with the deliveries. Hope all of you are safe & sound. Marson

Enjoying the first days of fall - used to be called the "Indian summer" but not PC now - don't know what it's called but using the warm days to move late sons' stuff into the shed & back portion of the garage. Don't know when the older one will get here to take the things but I need the room for my treasures aka junk.
Giving clothes & other items for the church annual Food & Clothing drive; aka Thanksgiving Food & Clothing giveaway. It's open to all in the community and we have people driving long distances as well.
Food hampers for the families (pre-packaged) and then they "shop" for clothing, linens, bedding, furniture, etc. Keeps volunteers busy but happy and the people are blessed with what they need.
Other items I'm packing for the thrift store that I volunteer for .... and pulling out the last of the flowers.
Don't think I'll try to save the geraniums but will leave the lambs ears & dianthus in the ground & hope they'll survive the winter. Picked up a parlour palm and now I'm trying to figure out where I'll put it.
Didn't think of that - it has to come into the house & needs space, light & some humidity. Will work on that in the next day or two as it's been getting to the below zero temp and it's in the garage.
still working on late sons paperwork, finances, etc. will take a year to get it straightened out, especially dealing with the tax department (and then there's mine too but that is on hold till the revenue service gets in touch with me). Always something. Thanks for posting the obit Shelly. Hi to all the potties - guess all our lives are changing. Marson

Katie - I find that hostas & bishops gout are ok for shade, as mentioned they spread & don't require much care. Marson

A bit of excitement yesterday - a few businesses at a strip mall were on fire .... saw alot of clouds of black smoke but didn't hear any fire trucks, etc. Thought it might have been a movie shoot or something because there was little action other than people gathering to look & more traffic than usual and action in the parking lots. (Actually the fire was a few blocks away but the street visible because of the arrangement & empty lots). This went on for hours and didn't seem to abate. Finally around 9:00 p.m. the clouds of smoke were lighter in colour. Went to bed and got awakened by a phone call around 10:50 (emergency alert) to warn of the fire, diverted traffic, and ventilation & breathing issues for people with allergies or asthma.
This warning came about 8 hrs. too late! My son was worried when the call came because he wasn't in a mood to hear any bad news. Don't blame him.

This morning found out all the businesses in the mall were burned out and a few animals at the pet food store perished. It's been raining or drizzling which is helping put out the hot spots & smoke - the machines are tearing down what's left . Thank God that no people perished and it happened on a Sunday when the mall was closed. Don't have to water my plants today and have been deadheading. Son has sorted through most of his brothers items and deciding what to do. Other things will have to wait till the court grants probate. Hence my walk to the lawyers & to see the damage at the mall across the street. Otherwise, it's quiet here. Marson

Sorry to see that you are faring poorly Gordon. It seems as we age, parts either stop working, need greasing, fall down or off, etc. etc. Growing old isn't for sissies. Weather around here is changing. My hanging planter is doing fine as long as I water it daily. Ended up getting dozens of plants & a window box planter with blooming flowers at 75% off and they're doing nicely. Son is visiting from the city (transportation is on a wing and a prayer). He's sorting through his brothers inheritance and has important decisions to make. I still do my volunteering - gives me something different to focus on and be with supportive friends - gets me out of the house. Need to continue my own downsizing. Wishing all the best. Marson

Gordon, "interesting 18 hours" indeed. Glad to see you are alive and well. I'm staying indoors most days - don't like the heat, find it hard to walk & breathe, both necessary.
Still managing to do some volunteer work between doing all the legalities that comes with death. Try to take a break on Sat. & Sun. & just "veg out" - went with friends on a long drive to deliver a camper/trailer. Enjoy seeing the trees, lakes & rock escarpments (if only I were younger & agile). Guess the potties are taking a bit of a break. Hope all is well. Marson

Sorry to hear about "Boss" - did he live up to his name Katie? Now he can roam free.
Don't know anything more - have to wait till the Medical Examiners report which will take time. It's a nice day and took a break from all the phone calls, technicalities, information and sorting through "stuff" and will leave the rest in the city in a few days. Did my stint at the thrift store in the afternoon.

Happy Birthday Curt

Sunny but cold - winds, some rain. Brought in my hanging planter & keeping it in the garage for now. Received news that my youngest son (50) was found deceased in his apartment ... that's all I know at the present. Not the type of news one wants to receive but that's life .... Hope the rest of you have a better & wonderful day. Marson

Susan - we're supposed to be getting that Colorado low that's coming up from the Dakotas - highways closed, as well as schools, banks, mail, doctors appointments cancelled, etc. So far it's not as bad as they tried to tell us. It's wet snow & winds, a few areas have no hydro, and it's supposed to last a few days. Don't know if I do my stint at the thrift tomorrow, as it seems to be a day by day thing. Staying warm and cozy and catching up on a few pre-taped shows & working on the tax papers. Marson

Sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother Katie. Realizing it's almost 6 years since my mother passed away in April the day before sons birthday.

Snow is melting but apparently there's a Colorado low coming in a few days and we may get a dump of snow again. Spending Easter alone - it's normal for me. Transportation & other matters keep family apart but will call and celebrate the day.

Haven't checked the stores for chocolate yet but will concentrate on the dark chocolate although a have a few Lindt bunnies keeping cool in the fridge. LOL Marson

New day - new weather. It's either wet snow or dry rain?? It's actually both alternating with it being very windy as well .... some areas expecting flooding but not here unless the sewers or water lines fill up.
Otherwise it's fine. LOL. Marson

Snow is melting, rain to be falling (this evening), it's still cold out there but the sun is shining.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY REEN

Shovelled/pushed the snow around but it's harrder and harder to find a place to put it. The driveway is getting narrower and the area by the door only lets it open (only door-wide) and then it hits the snow row.
And we're supposed to get rain tonight - not good as the driveway & road has ice patches. But it's warmer so I got fresh air & exercise. Tomorrow is my thrift day and I'm getting a ride & might do a bit of grocery shopping. Don't need much but it's good to have a few items on hand. Hope you're all doing well. Marson

Susan, I'm about an hour away from the city (that's where my family lives). Suggested they move here but nobody has taken me up on the offer. They cleared our cul-de-sac and now there's a hill of snow in the middle of it - by my driveway, so people will have to be careful backing up. Puzzle slowly getting done - staying indoors has its' benefits & it is still below zero. Sons girlfriend cast had to be broken & reset as they messed it up. Now they've got no heat & water - seems to happen on a regular basis in the apartment in the city and it's a public holiday, so most services are closed. It's good being out here. Marson

Continued blizzard - highways closed, church services cancelled, stores (what's the point of opening if people can't travel). This has been quite the winter.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN

Went to the thrift store & the bank - money doesn't seem to last as long as it did before.
Having overnight blizzards, not so good road conditions and the neighbour boy is making money - no wonder I needed to replenish the supply of bills. Gave myself a month to do the puzzle - have part of it on the table in the living room and the other part on my island in the kitchen. Get my exercise going from place to place and rest my eyes in between.
One room has better sunlight for morning & afternoon & the other has better artificial light in the evening. Keeps me on my toes and you sure notice different pieces depending on light. Will need to pick up a few groceries (fresh fruits/veggies & meat) when the weather warms up or make arrangements with a friend who's going shopping. Have plenty of canned and dry goods on hand to last a while. Marson

Don't know how long it will take me to do the puzzle - it's got 700 (small) pieces - in the shape of a rooster with smaller chickens, chicks, flowers, barn & silo inside the rooster or chicken (didn't check which it was LOL ). Gordon, I'm like you - one nearsighted & one farsighted eye - not too happy with my surgery - now wear glasses for reading and without them don't have the same clarity as before. May need lazer surgery because it seems like I'm getting a secondary cataract on the eye that was cleaned. If I had to do it again, I would have left things as they were. But everyone is different and have had wonderful results. It's snowing again with more & winds to come this afternoon. Did I mention that I paid the neighbour to shovel my snow yesterday. He's happy and I'm staying indoors doing the puzzle and downsizing stuff as my ride decided not to come in and go to the thrift shop. I was prepared to have her spend the night here if the roads & visibility got worse (she lives a few towns over). Wishing the potties a good day. Marson

Another day - a few roads & highways closed - poor visibility because of the blowing snow - vehicles in the ditches & clogging the roads (and that's not counting the truck convoy blockades). Driveway needs clearing again as the winds blew the snow into something resembling 'sand dunes'. Don't know who will clear it but first one gets the pay.

Son fell & twisted or whatever his foot, his girlfriend tried to help him up, and fell instead. She's wearing a cast, don't know about him (you know men, they say they're "fine").

Katie - wonderful news on the grandson. Sorry to hear about the tummy virus - make sure you drink plenty of fluids with electrolytes and try to rest in between (which is hard to do). Hope you feel better soon.

Gordon - glad you're keeping up with the doctors instructions for Sylvia - she has a good friend in you. Make sure you take care of yourself as well. Love the pictures.

Shelly and Susan - glad to hear you're ok - take your time with the chores. They'll get done sooner or later. At least that's what I tell myself. Working on a puzzle. Shouldn't have picked such a hard one (for me). May take a few months unless I give up. May read some magazines in between just to give the eyes a change. Marson

The weather's at it again. Today it's snowing, raining, blowing, low visibility then it looks nice again. Snow is heavy and I see the neighbour boys shovelling - personally I'd leave it for a few days til it's finished it's cycle. They probably want to earn money. Going to have my eye-drops delivered instead of going out (my friend decided it's better to stay home and not go to the thrift store & work - my drugs are across the street from there so we'd pick them up. Delivery is the way to go, that is, if I can get through to the pharmacy. My son injured his leg & his girlfriend broke her arm (going for a walk yesterday) when the streets were icy. Staying home has its' advantages. Marson

It's been snowing overnight and still is - needless to say, the deck & driveway are once again covered with snow -expecting more throughout the day + mentions of rain.
Don't see any birds around here, just squirrels running on the hydro wires. Marson

It's been a doozy of a week. Extremely cold, very windy and LOTS of snow.
Highways closed as were schools, businesses, etc. Driveway & deck loaded with snow .... neighbour blew the snow up high and some landed in front of the door (house & garage) ... had to push open the door & then shovel a path. Did likewise on the deck but alas! it snowed again so I went & cleared a path on the deck. Will do the driveway when it's warmer (although they mentioned a possible snow fall tonight). One way to get fresh air & exercise. The thrift store was closed a few times - will probably go next week. If you're out of the city (or away from lights) the Aurora Borealis are beautiful to see and because of the frigid weather you can see "sun dogs" and in the evening the snow sparkles. Have to look at the bright side. Marson

We are still battling COVID-19 but the next thing is here already. Virologists have identified a new Nile virus - type C. It appears to target those who were born between 1930 & 1970.

Symptoms:
1. Sending the same email twice.
2. Sending a blank email.
3. Sending a message to the wrong person.
4. Sending it back to the person who sent it to you.
5. Forgetting to attach the attachment.
6. Hitting SEND before you've finished.
7. Hitting DELETE instead of SEND.
8. Hitting SEND when you should hit DELETE.

That is why it is called the C-NILE virus.

If you cannot admit to doing the above, you have obviously caught the mutated strain — the D-NILE virus.

It's warmer but very windy - getting snowdrifts on the deck, driveway ok & now it's starting to snow. Going out in the evening for a few hours with a friend. Another one is picking me up on Fri. so we can visit & craft. Got a new computer and hope to set it up tomorrow and see what it's like and what kind of programs it has & how it operates. Hopefully I'll figure out how to get online & have my old bookmarks so I can come here & visit. Have quite a few puzzles I could do but then I'd have to have a clear table - both tables have stuff on them as do the two tables in the garage 🙂 have a great day. Marson

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GORDON

Have a wonderful day. Likewise to all the potties. It is brutally cold out here -40C with windchill - you can freeze body parts in a few minutes and your car batteries can die if not plugged it. Going to my thrift (in & out of a car) and just a few feet to the store. Shovelled driveway about 10 min. yesterday and found it too cold to clear the deck. Will save that for another (warmer) day. Marson

Katie - that doesn't appear to be mouse poop Totally different. However, if it's a wooden trunk (esp. out of fir, or spruce, cedar, etc.) it could be the sap which forms amber. Marson

Having plans sounds like a good idea until you have to put on clothes and leave the house.

It’s weird being the same age as old people.

When I was a kid, I wanted to be older, this is not what I expected.

Life is like a helicopter. I don’t know how to operate a helicopter.

Chocolate is God’s way of telling us he likes us a little bit chubby.

It’s probably my age that tricks people into thinking I’m an adult.

Never sing in the shower! Singing leads to dancing, dancing leads

to slipping, and slipping leads to paramedics seeing you naked.

So remember…Don’t sing!

During the middle ages they celebrated the end of the plague with wine and orgies. Does anyone know if there is anything planned when this one ends?

I see people about my age mountain climbing; I feel good getting my leg through my underwear without losing my balance.

So if a cow doesn’t produce milk, is it a milk dud or an udder failure?

If you can’t think of a word say “I forgot the English word for it.” That way people will think you’re bilingual instead of an idiot.

I’m at a place in my life where errands are starting to count as going out.

Cronacoaster (Noun): The ups and downs of a pandemic. One day you’re loving your bubble, doing work-outs, baking banana bread and going for long walks and the next you’re crying, drinking gin for breakfast and missing people you don’t even like.

Don’t be worried about your smartphone or TV spying on you. Your vacuum cleaner has been collecting dirt on you for years.

I’m getting tired of being part of a major historical event.

I don’t always go the extra mile, but when I do it’s because I missed my exit.

You don’t realize how old you are until you sit on the floor and then try to get back up.

We all get heavier as we get older, because there's a lot more information in our heads. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

This is the day dogs have been waiting for. They realize their owners can’t leave the house and they get them 24/7. Dogs are rejoicing everywhere. Cats are contemplating suicide.

If you are trying to impress me with your vehicle, it better be a food truck.

Gordon - yup, I'm a chocoholic - my favourites are the "dark chocolate" at least 75% - not a fan of the milk chocolate. Doing an endoscopy & colonoscopy would be killing two birds with one stone (gall stone) and saving time & money as well. Still very cold outside - just took out the garbage & blue box & brought them in a few hours later and shovelled another foot.

Spending New Years eve alone, which is fine by me. Don't usually stay up for the festivities, of which there are none in our area. Read about the tiger getting shot because some young person decided not to use their brains but did a "stupid" and went to visit/pet a tiger. Guess he'll be spending the new year in the hospital contemplating his actions.

Wishing the potties a blessed new year, happy, healthy and with family & friends even if "socially distanced". Isn't it nice that we can visit from all parts of the world. Marson

It is in the minus celsius - bitterly cold out there. Just shoveled around 2 ft. in front of the door. Did the work at the thrift store & picked up two pyjama tops for 50 cents and a medical anatomical book (a big honker of one that I needed) for 50 cents for a grand total of one dollar). Friend then took me to the grocery store & I picked up a few suppplies but forgot to go to the mail (havenèt been there in a week). Still havenèt picked up my glasses as itès too cold to walk - maybe next week. Donèt know why the computer is adding the ÈeÈ when I press for the apostrophe. Picked up Merci chocolates before Christmas as well as Ferrero Roche almondé coconut and a friend gave me a bag of Godiva chocolates and I also stocked up on Lindt (a variety of bars) and it was too cold to venture out and get my usual after Christmas bargains. Marson

Didn't get the predicted snow/rain & very cold weather - just the cold weather. Which was good as it took me half an hour to shovel the previous snow but it was the light kind.
Delivered a few meals with friends and then took a drive in the country side - friends & neighbour dropped off baking and a meal as well as potatos from their garden. All in all a pleasant day. Spending Christmas alone, son called early in the moring to wish me a Merry Christmas which I'm wishing all the potties. Have a wonderful day with peace and joy and family & friends and good health as well. Marson

Happy belated birthday Shelly. Hope you had a wonderful day and have a great year.
Computer was down for a few days - time to get a replacement in the new year. This one is 8 years old apparently. Weather is getting colder, not much snow on the ground (grass visible in areas).

Apparently you can get a secondary cataract after surgery, which appears to be my case but there's no point in doing laser surgery unless it's necessary which may not be for a few years. Probably shouldn't have done it in the first place. '

Did my stint at the thrift store & got a few scarves including a Louis Vuitton & a pashima shawl very inexpensively. Nice gifts for a friends daughter. Also stocked up on Christmas cards at a great discount. Makes up for the money I'll have to spend on a computer. Still, ALOT to be thankful for. Time to have supper (leftovers from a friend - meatballs, scalloped potatoes, & carrots) - also brought me baking for desert. What a life. Marson

Wishing all the potties that celebrate tomorrow - have a happy & blessed THANKSGIVING. Ours was last month - had it home alone with a TV dinner. We've had some snow and cold weather is starting up - tomorrow it's supposed to be below zero & windy.
Will dress warm when I go to the car (volunteer afternoon). Spoke to my aunt in NY state - she's 101, still living by herself (but does get help with certain things like doctor appointments, or shopping & gets Meals on Wheels). Her sister passed away last year at 102 & the other sister is 99. My mom died young at 94, five years ago. I'm a spring chicken by comparison. LOL Marson

Think I also thirsted my dahlias. Dug them up a few days ago and drying the soil & foliage - then I'll take off the bulbs & see if I can store them for next spring. It's drizzling/raining intermidently for a couple of days and is forecast to do so for a few more. Was going to empty the planters but will leave them up until it stops raining and they dry off and will save the soil & compost the rest. Thanksgiving Day is on Mon. but I'm thankful every day - there's alot to be greatful for. Need to downsize & giveaway no longer needed items - others can make use of them. Wishing the potties a wonderful day. Marson

We are having summer weather - warm & sunny days - the flowers have revived & are blooming - the leaves on the trees have turned beautiful & varied colours and the leaves that have fallen still haven't hit the crunchy stage. The grass is green & some of the neighbours are still cutting grass or raking leaves. Such a wonderful reprieve and we're expecting a few more days of this weather.

Next week is our Thanksgiving and we're still under covid restrictions - orange level. 50 % people in stores, 25 people or 30% (whichever is greater) in places of worship, funerals and weddings also restricted (depending if it's indoors or outdoors).
To eat in a restaurant or even on the patio, you have to be double-vaccinated, likewise to attendence at sport venues.
Not too sure how this will all work out at our church annual Thanksgiving food & clothing giveaway but I'm sure somebody will figure it out.

There have been about 10 garage sales in our area this year which makes for slim pickings but I still managed to pick up a few items 🙂

Gordon - I'm mainly on one med for BP - the others I only take as needed or not at all - otherwise it's vitamins.

Dahlias like water & I didn't give them as much as needed,. Pinched back the main stem so they would branch out a bit (should have pinched more shoots to make it bushier). Perhaps next year I'll take better care of them. In the past I planted about 3 varieties of dahlias and lilies, three types of petunis, etc. I've cut back alot - smaller garden, older woman. LOL Marson

Although it's fall, we've had summer weather. Will quarantine my Christmas cactus in the garage (spritz, water & bag it). Have to dig out the dahlias (only one bloomed last week) & anemones (most did) , dry them & see if I can overwinter them. Still have carrots planted and may pull them out and share them with friends & neighbours.

Hope to put in a stint at the thrift store tomorrow but will be closed on my Thurs. stint as it's a new holiday National Aboriginal and Truth and Reconciliation Day (at least I think what it's called), so I walked over to city hall to pay my property tax as they'll be closed.

Went to a funeral prior to that, so I'll take some time to rest.
Hope all are doing well and enjoying the day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAX

We've been getting smoke from east, north, west sides and a little from the south. Needless to say it makes it harder to breathe for some people and along with the heat, believe it or not, it was also humid. Good time to stay indoors.
Went for groceries and they had "well-spent" hanging baskets, regularly
2 for $35 - on sale for $1.97 each - picked up 4 (should have gotten a few more)

Took them home, deadheaded the flowers, hung them in my trees, watered them and Voila! look good. Even if they last one or two months, I can compost the flowers, save the soil for next years planter, and rinse & donate the baskets to the thrift store. Somebody is always looking for them.

It's hot out there, so 15 min. out is about all I can stand. Go in spurts, rest, etc. Pray all is well, stay safe & comfortable. Marson

It has been hot here with rain needed. Now it's a tad cooler but we're getting "smoke" from the forest fires from other areas drifting in - if you have asthma or lung problems, it's best to stay indoors. The smell is creeping into the garage and it's greyish outdoors. See my optometrist in Nov. which is about the time I'm supposed to see the surgeon. May cut one out --- one is a 5 min. walk from here while the other is a 1 hr. drive (need to get a driver as well). Hope all is well with the potties. Marson

The jury is still out on the surgery - docs say it's good, I'm not that sure as it's harder to read & I'll probably need glasses but till then, I use a magnifier & loaner glasses. There are wild blueberries out in the bush - miles from here and one has to be watchful of the bears & poison ivy - it's cheaper to buy them at the store. Not as tasty but more convenient. We've had hot weather & little rain although we're thankful for yesterdays.
Need to water the hanging baskets as they dry quickly. Marson

bacopa are a trailing filler plant for hanging planters or where you want some to trail down - have little white flowers. I like to plant with alyssum as they have a nice scent and when they seem to have reached their end, I cut them down and they usually rebloom in fall. Have a little rain the other day but can use alot more. Would like some geraniums and petunias as well.

Still need a way to go before I figure out if the cataract surgery worked or not. May have to wear glasses for reading - will know in 2 wks. when I see the surgeon. If it isn't one thing, it's another.

We're having warm to hot weather now, so I'll probably work in the garage as I'm not a heat lover. Don't know how Gordon & Julie & other southerners manage - but at least they don't have to shovel snow.

Despite all these restrictions, friends picked me up and we went for a long Sunday drive. Picked up burgers & fries, lawn chairs and off we went. Saw the area that had forest fires a few weeks ago - alot of trees lost. Noticed the wild strawberry plants were starting to bloom as well as wild violets.
Came home to find out an acquaintance perished when he fell off a boat while fishing. Please wear your life-jackets when on the waters, whether boating, water-skiing, fishing, etc. It may just help save your life. Marson

We've had a few frosty days so people have been bringing in their planters & covering up the seedlings in the garden. Had a few days of rain which was very needed. Opened a bag of 'black earth' which turned out to look like peat moss -- there is a difference - you'd think the company would know. Needed soil i.e. earth not the fly away peat. Put in the potted Easter lily & mums and will be interesting to see if they take. The mum I planted two years ago seems to be coming up. Still need some geraniums, petunias, bacopa & alysum to put in the planter & in front of the window. Perhaps something for a pot or long planter on a wrought iron stand. Will see if I can get to a greenhouse. They've implemented further covid restrictions - it's beginning to feel like a jail. Good thing I'm not in an apartment and have a yard & green space behind me. Marson

Long weekend here: Victoria Day. Makes no difference to me with all the restrictions - did some weeding (in time spurts) & because of the heat (not a friend of mine) I rest & cool off. Will go back & weed some more. Perhaps in a day or two I may be able to plant some seeds & bulbs. Need my grass cut but so far neither neighbour has come & done it -- may have to ask. Spoke too soon. One of them is cutting it as I type,. Guess he's in need of cigarette money. My dandelions are now laying there with their heads chopped off.

We had a few days of rain which we needed. My daylilies are like weeds.
They're spreading all over and my Peonies need to have last years leaves trimmed & put on the compost heap. The potentilla need pruning & I need to water my two hanging planters on the spruce tree. Good thing that I enjoy gardening. Have a wonderful day. Marson

Optometrist said my surgery went well & my eyes are better. Not the way I see things .... my near-sighted eye doesn't see "near" as well andthe long-sighted one seems to not be as "long" - I presume they're trying to balance each other out -- go to see the surgeon next month & we'll see how things go.

Was weed-whacking dandelion heads yesterday - boy, did heads roll. Alas new ones have taken their place. Did some crab-grass pulling out but with the breeze blowing up the dry earth, & me on my knees, I was concerned it would blow into my eyes
so I decided to quit. We need a good rain. Meanwhile behind the house, there was a bear wandering around. Conservation had to come & get it out before it did any damage or scared kids.

No garage sales allowed, masks to be worn indoors, limited amount of people in stores (according to size of store), restaurants, movie theatres, churches & houses of worship closed (except some are fighting the ban & taking the government to court). Meanwhile they're stepping up vaccinations & other restrictions and/or tickets (fines). But life goes on -- may be different than before but most people are adjusting although mental health issues are rising. Think I'll have some chocolate! and enjoy my plants & clear stuff out of the garage & donate, giveaway or discard the items.

Wishing the potties A great day. Marson

Yes Gordon, "mums" are chrysanthemums. Yesterday was 5 years since my MUM passed away. How time flies.

Had my Grandmothers (on DH side) pink & burgundy peonies moved 3 times (with each move) and they always bloomed. Didn't take them to my most recent more but there were pink peonies - they look lovely but only bloom for a short season as do the lilacs.The tulips are on their tenth year. The cataract surgery hasn't been as good as I would have hoped. Now I need glasses in order to read - things may improve as it's only been 2 1/2 weeks

I'm quite far from St. Catherines - I'm above North Dakota area. Garage sales have been put on the "NO" list thanks to covid restrictions as well as church services (10 people) while the box stores can have (250) people even though both may be the same size. Can't have anyone visit on the yard but 4 people can sit at an outdoor patio & have food or drinks. We won't go into the other silly rules & regulations. Marson with the mask

Well, we've had a small rainfall and some snow falling gently for two days - of course, people forget how to drive & there were a few accidents - the snow & rain are much needed by the farmers, especially when it doesn't come as a downpour. No tulip flowers blooming but the leaves are up.
Had a mum & Easter lily but now they've seen better days. Will try to replant them outdoors and see if they take. Had cataract surgery on one eye, so reading has been negligible until the optometrist gave me a pair of "loaner" glasses. See him next month and the surgeon a month after that - to check how well the surgery went & if the other eye needs it too.

It's still too cold & early to plant my bulbs: dahlias & rannunculus and hope to plant my late mothers flower seeds - don't know how many will pop up as they're five years old but hope springs eternal. Usually put up hangiing planters as well as potted ones by the house. Last year the greenhouses sold out quickly so my yard looked pathetic but had a few peonies & lily-of-the-valley. Time to add some perennials.

Despite covid distancing, the cool weather, I noticed there's going to be two garage sales this weekend. Do I need anything? yes, I need to have one myself... have way too much stuff. but you know that the fun is in the hunt. Some things are just too good to leave there.

Beauty & Duzzy seem to be keeping Gordon "snapping" pics & bones.
Wishing the potties a g'day. Marson

Good afternoon potties - from Marson Manitoba aka Manisnowba. We didn't get as much as we usually do - only had the neighbours shovel twice and I did the other two or three times and the deck only twice. Bought some bulbs (anaemones, & two types of dahlias) - they're in the garage, in a box and covered with sheets but it's still cold in there and may have to bring them into the pantry - worried that they may freeze before they go into the ground (which is still partially frozen and may rot - may have to wait till the end of June or begining of May before the ground is warm enough. I suppose I could plant them in pots or a planter in the house and take them out when the weather allows. And maybe, I'll scatter some flower seeds but that's a way off.

For those who enjoy the Norther Lights aka aurora borealis, they've been awesome & colourful this year (but you had to live in areas out of town without the skies being lit by city lights). The sun is shining but there's still a chill in the air and no garage sales in sight. As if I needed anything other than downsizing.

All the best to the potties - stay safe. Marson

Thought it was a "warmer" day yesterday so I trudged off to pick up the mail at the post office. It was colder than I thought - didn't bother shovelling off the driveway as my face & toes were starting to feel cold. The road was icy & the street was icy & rutted - rather dangerous to walk on. No flowers poing out their heads around here - some are still covered with about an inch or two of snow. Hopefully it will warm up.

Doing some volunteer work at the thrift shop but getting a ride - then have an appt. with the optometrist. Working on taxes (or at least on all the prep work). Note a chore that I do cheerfully. Still trying to downsize - always more than I thought. Marson

It's warming up: around -10 C but it's better than the deep freeze we had the last few weeks. Stayed indoors for a week at a time. Brrrrr- way too cold. Picked up a few groceries yesterday with friends who picked me up. Then we came here for a quick brunch. Still many restrictions on visitation, masks, etc. but life must go on.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN

Inmax .... sounds like buttertarts....delicous! I like to make them with some maple syrup and have also made them as a 'slice'. Less work & just as tasty. A dollop of whipped cream is also scrumptious.

It's been a slow recovery for the tailbone & area .... lifting the legs as to climb stairs or snowbanks, or even lifting something heavy triggers it. Have to remember not to do that. A friend was going to pick up a few items for me but they didn't have them. However, she brought me a potted plant --- not too sure what it is. Must be a new hybrid.

Around here, if you get the Pfizer shot, you have to wait 15 min. before leaving in case of an allergic reaction. Mainly being given at long term personal care homes to the elderly. Which makes no sense to me as they're quarantined and can't have visitors. The ones who should get the shots is the nurses, & home care workers & staff that bring covid into the building. Still a problem in getting enough of the shots & needles, and staff to shoot people up. LOL

We've had nice weather for this time of the year although it's supposed to get colder this weekend. Still have my Xmas tree up.
The premier suggested people keep them up at least till the end of Jan. Mainly so people would put the lights on in the evening to make the atmosphere a little brighter & cheerier during this covid time.
I've done my duty. I can even leave it up till Valentines Day or not.
We'll see how it goes. Wishing you all good health & keep safe.
Marson

Good to see Gordon joining the gang again. Hi! My name is Marson and I'm a chocoholic. Doesn't matter what time of the year it is - prefer 'dark chocolate', like chocolate truffles, bark, slab, etc.
We're still under 'code red' restrictions so restaurants, pubs, etc. are all closed. Finally let people shop (masks & six ft. apart) and purchase non-essentials last Sat. Alot of people have 'grocery pickup) otherwise it's mask & distance and the stores only allow 1/3 of store area, etc. Houses of worship still closed (usually online instead) or in cars in the parking lot - spaced out at six ft.
Managed to fall out of a van - the heel of my boot caught the strap on my purse that tipped over, and I fell flat on my back.on the snow/slush parking lot. Needles to say, one week later & certain body parts are still sore. And here I thought I was well padded 🙂 Still managed to shovel snow a couple of times after that. Now we're in a deep freeze - skin can freeze in 2 min. I've been inddors for the past 3 days. Getting 'covid hair' but at least now the hairdressers can take in a limited number of client but they're booked to their capacity. Perhaps in a week or so I'll see if I can get in unless things tighten up again. Sounds like you're all busy - stay safe. Marson

It's been a different year for snow --- by now we'd have it quite deep & very cold but you can see the brown grass in most areas except where it's been plowed up and we haven's had the minus below freezing temps.
Still have to be careful when walking in case of ice patches. Masks on and fogging up if wearing glasses or breathing LOL and hand washing after shopping, mail, etc. All the best in the new year. Marson

Not familiar with pottery marks but it seems that there was a company called Norcross - they may have been importers or manufacturers of novelty items that were imported from China or Japan -- vases, decorative plates, etc.
Of course, I could be totally off base 🙂 It's cool & damp but much warmer than our usual below zero weather and theres not much snow on the ground ... the city cleared the roads & the hill in front of my house and left a sprinkling of sand to give cars & people a little bit of traction. We've passed one week of the new year - that went quickly despite all our lockdowns (which have been extended another two weeks). Has been having a negative mental effect on young & old with restrictions still in place. Marson

Spent twenty minutes shovelling the snow off the deck - that's the easy part. The driveway took 3 days --- twice the first day, twice the second, and the 3 rd day finished it off. One way to get exercise - when my fingers get cold, I quit and after warming up and resting for a few hours, I continue.

We're in code red until Jan. 9 (my sons birthday) - then they'll decide if the covid numbers and deaths are down. Shopping for essentials although they suggest you do curbside pickup, otherwise shop quickly - touch only what you buy, masks mandatory indoors in stores or malls, still limited amount of people allowed. No worship services except online and some try the outdoors in cars six feet away with radio connection.
In this weather the online or radio/tv services are the way to go.

People have been known to break the rules and face fines (the politicians are a different story) but we won't go into that. We're learning how to function differently - more phone calls, cards, emails, etc. Praying that the coming year will be different - but when you consider how the rest of the world lives (in poverty,
famine, pestilence, totalitarian, Marxist or dictorship regimes) we are blessed and it's a good time to think of all we can be thankful for. food, clean water, a warm home, etc. Marson

Susan, so sorry to hear you have to deal with all those unpleasant things. Try not to be anxious or worry but take it one day at a time. Stay strong & healthy. Likewise Katie. You've had quite the year as well. We're in code red - masks to be worn when indoors at stores which now can only sell essentials (you can get a head of lettuce but not a TV like in some big box stores). Santized carts and hands, etc. Gatherings of five people, if you're living on your own - you can have one visitor (preferabbly the same person). Houses of worship mainly online as they can only have 5 people in the building). But it seems like the liquor stores can remain open. Isn't that interesting. It's cool outdoors but not too bad so I went & shovelled the deck and driveway. One of the ladies from church called to say she was going grocery shopping and did I need anything. Just a few items so she picked them up and dropped them off. Kept our "social distancing" guidelines of 6 ft. apart (more or less). Didn't even charge me - said she just wanted to do something nice and she did. So thankful for kind people. Sounds like Christmas will be low key as this second wave is wrecking havoc around here but there's so much to be thankful for.
May the potties have a wonderful,& safe Thanksgiving. Marson

Masks are becoming mandatory in most indoor places: stores, gathering places, etc. although there are some holdouts. It's code orange here and code red in the city althogh my friend in the city said that she heard the latest health mandate and we're being moved up to red. More rules & regulations. Things change every few days with more fines and restrictions.
Went to the store as the weathers not too bad. Last weeks snow melted as we ended up having a few warm days which we enjoyed. Going through tubs of Xmas decorations - now that I no longer put up 5-7 trees, there's lots to get rid of.
Somebody else can enjoy it and I'll have free space. For how long, I don't know. LOL - downsize, upsize and back again. At least garage sale season is over so it should even off. Hope everyone here is staying healthy & safe. Marson

Good afternoon potties - it's THANKSGIVING DAY up here and I'm wishing all the potties a wonderful day. I'm slowly going through the clothes closet and trying to pass on the clothes to various charities - why do I have so much???? some too big, some too small, some just right but need to downsize - not just clothes but other things as well.

Susan - so sorry to hear you have all those issues to deal with. If you can get things straightened out and in place before you have more to deal with - try to get it done now.
It may be harder but later it may be overwhelming. God give you the strength and courage to do what needs to be done. Glad that you are getting some help.

Shelly - how wonderful that you were able to get together with Reen & Gil. I think of them often & wondered how they were doing. Good to hear you're up and about.

Katie - I think you spurred me on to downsize - you're an example to me ... trust you & DH are fine & enjoying life.
Likewise to all the potties. Marson

Katie - do you have the recipe for the poison ivy killer - I lost mine, also my dandelion murderer - they're probably the same.
Prayers being said for Reen & Gil (and the rest of the potties). Shelly, the Turbo sounds interesting but I have more gadgets than I can use. They take up storage space and I keep thinking I'll use them. For one person they're too much problem to get out and use and wash, etc. A toaster oven does most of my work, then the stove-top, electric kettle, & slow-cooker. So, why do I have all the rest???? Marson

Our thrift store is finally opening tomorrow -- with limited hours -
Tues., Wed. & Fri. 10-3 with Sat. 10-2 - only one entrance, one exit, one till for money the other till for debit or credit card transactions....... and they're allowing you to shop for 45 min. (didn't say home many are allowed in the store), Not too sure how this will work as it's hard enough for people to remember when the stores were opened Tues. - Sat. (closed Mon. for volunteers to put items on the shelves & racks). Sun. a day of rest. Don't think I'll go there for a while, it's garage sale season and will have to suffice says the person who needs nothing. However, I find items for friends & family. Marson

Good afternoon potties. The sun is shining, the dandelions are coming into the seed stage: can't really notice them now as my neighbour cut my grass the other day. With this virus and all (masks & self-distancing) has helped me cut down on groceries and eat the stock I have on hand. Good thing too. Haven't picked up any annuals for the front of the house or for a few hanging pots. By the time I get to it they'll be gone from the stores or greenhouses, or the selection will be pitiful or it will be fall 🙂 It's been warm & dry but finally got some rain - we're ok but other areas had to be evacuated because of flooding. Feel sorry for the poor farmers who lost their crops and feed for their cattle.

Susan, sounds like you've had quite the year along with Katie.
How are Gayle & Gordon doing? I don't do Facebook or other such things like tweeting or twitering (I let the birds do that).
Is Gayle still flipping houses and selling chintz pottery/porcelain? Where's Gordon at with his companions?
Travelling despite the quarantines & distancing. Shelly glad to see that you're selling some items. Always helps. I'm catching up on downsizing (between going to garage sales) and shredding old documents. There's only so much a house can contain and some paperwork is no longer valid.

Hope you all have a wonderful, safe & healthy week. Marson

Today is phase one of easing restrictions for some businesses although it's still limited to 10 people but to be 2 meters (6 ft.) apart from each other. Also limiting the amount of people in a store, hair salon, etc. Other businesses & schools are still in lockdown as are churches, funeral homes, etc. Phase two & three will depend on how this goes - if there aren't more cases of the virus (illnesses or deaths). We'll see how it goes. Have a few masks but haven't worn them anywhere. They're easing up on elective surgeries &
medical tests, dentists (if work is needed), etc. Sent out my taxes to the accountant (got a 2 month reprieve on those). Picked up a few sale items at the grocery store & might do a bigger shop tomorrow. Marson

Thank you for the daffydills 🙂 Katie - they bring a touch of sunshine. Saw my tulip (the green leaves) starting to pop up (they're in the south and against the house) so they come up early only problem is we had snow this morning which gave me pause & I decided I'd skip going to the store for leftover Easter chocolates which usually go on sale after Sunday. But decided with the snow & possible ice patches and having to stand outdoors (they practice physical/distancing) & only let a certain amount of people in & you have to be six feet away inside the store as well). Decided that staying in bed during the "seniors hour" was a better idea. Shelly & Susan hope you had a wonderful albeit quiet Easter. They told families to stay home and do virtual visiting as they want to flatten the covid curve. Don't know how long this will last. And a HELLO to the lurkers and Gordon (I don't do Facebook) - enjoy your travels. Marson

{{HUGS}} to Katie & Susan. Sounds like you've got your hands full. Prayers going out for you and the rest of the potties. It's cold outside especially with the wind but the sun is shining which is nice. Stay warm and safe and don't catch the flu or other things that are going around this time of the year. Spring is in the air (although it's a tad nippy). Marson

Good afternoon potties - had a tad of snow yesterday which took me about 5 min. to shovel off the driveway. Predicting snowshowers for the afternoon - it's already slushy icy out there.
Otherwise, it's the same old same old as DS would say. Getting old isn't for sissies. Thankful the aches & pains move around instead of settling in one place 🙂 Sorry to hear that Jack (toadboy) passed away. Has anyone heard how Lois (houseflipper & chintz potty) doing? I do check the board but don't have much to contribute but Ithink of you all & keep you in my prayers. Marson

Christmas has come and gone. Had a couple of invites for Christmas & a pre-Christmas dinner which I took advantage of. Usually I spend Christmas alone which is just fine with me. I enjoy my own company and just relax and watch old movies and/or read and have a cup of hot chocolate & snacks. Works for me 🙂

Went out on Boxing Day to pick up my after Christmas cookies & chocolates. Needless to say, the shelves were quickly emptied and I have a nice supply for myself and gift giving.

The weather has been warmer then expected and no snowfall since before Christmas so it's been nice to go out but it is icy so one has to be careful. Hope the potties had a wonderful Christmas and that the New Year finds you happy, healthy and blessed. Marson

Gppd afternoon potties. Sun is shining, some snow is melting but it's still cool out there but warmer than last week. Susan, it's just as bad here waiting for a neurologist appt. Been waiting since March - had one for the end of Jan. (next year) but it's been moved up to the beginning of Dec. (this year). If it's something that they figure is an emergency or needs urgant care, you can get in immediately or have a short wait, otherwise, you take it as it comes. Haven't flown anywhere in ages - with all the security, passports, early morning scheduling, one would just as well stay home. Birthday has come & gone - spent a quite day by myself. Had a few [hone calls from friends. When one gets past a certain age, that's more than enough 🙂
Went to the city with a friend & picked up alot of items (mainly groceries & dry goods) - should be prepared for some of the weather we get so I don't have to go out in bad weather. Got a haircut as the longer hair doesn't look so great on me. Wish I was one of the talented people who could make their hair look good (braids, chignons, fancy ponytails, curls, etc.) Short I can handle (wash & blow, or curl with a curling iron when a bit longer). Rollers when it gets to the stage of "soon it's time for a haircut stage" - but the curls last only a few hours and then it goes limp & straight.

All the best to the potties and their families. Stay healthy, Marson

Shelly - Thanksgiving was last weekend and quite a few people postponed it because of the storm. Some are still without electricity and we're getting workers from other provinces and the states to help set back and replace not only the poles & wires but also transmission towers (the high winds and the heavy wet snow/sleet did them in. Had my gutters cleaned, leaves raked (from other peoples trees), mine are evergreens and don't shed except for the cedar. Today it's cool & rainy - not good for the farmers who need to get their crops cut & dried. Hope everyone else is having nice weather. Marson

It's been cold, very windy and sleeting/snowing. Power lines, poles, transformers, trees & branches snapped or down throughout the mid & lower part of the province. Some areas haven't had electricity for days. Many people postponed or cancelled their Thanksgiving celebrations. Fortunately, I've had power and made myself a frozen turkey tv dinner.DS was without power for a day+ , haven't heard how the other one managed. But there's plenty to be grateful for. Packing things away for our church annual Thanksgiving Food & Clothing Drive. We get people from all over the province come down and pick up whatever they want - food hampers, clothing, linens and even household goods & furniture. I'll be busy there as well and enjoying it. ALOT to be THANKFUL for. Hope all the potties are doing well. Marson

Wearing sweater in the house - the furnace has been on for a few days.
We've had cold & wet rainy weather for the past week. Had a few hot days in summer ... the seasons have been mixed up. Paid more for the two tomato plants than the tomatoes they produced (& weren't tasty at that)...wrong time for cold, heat, rain, etc. must have changed their production & ripening time. Perhaps next year. Trimmed back the alyssum a few weeks ago and now they've rebloomed. Deadhead the petunias on a regular basis and they're still blooming. Almost the end of the daylilies snapdragons (poor showing), the fall mini mums are doing well (transplanted them from a pot two years ago & they've done well surviving the winter). Tried planting a poinsettia outdoors -looks better now than all year so I put it in a pot and brought it indoors and will see if it blooms for Xmas. Likewise with my Christmas cactus which sat outdoors all winter.
The grass & weeds would be great for goats grazing or for a farmer to cut it down for hay feed for cattle or horses. None of the neighbours have taken the hint. Maybe I should speak up.

Sorting through clothes, household items, linens, etc. as our church has the annual Food & Clothing Giveaway (Fri. after Thanksgiving)
Last year they gave away close to 3000 foodhampers & tons of clothes. People come from all over the province to pick things up.

Had my older son come & spend a week here last month. Weather wasn't great but he did some of my yard & housework. He enjoyed being out in the "country" to see "green & birds & squirrels). Will have to come out when it's nice. The younger one hasn't been here for years but at least he's seen where I now live. Otherwise, things are good and yes Gordon, I'm still a chocoholic (as my cupboards & containers are proof of that). You can never have too much 🙂

Wishing the potties a great week. Marson

Ken - praise God that you're doing better and may your health keep it up. Nice to see you again Gordon.

We've had hot dry weather & now cool wet weather - would like the warm and dry days and a bit of a breeze. Bad year for tomatoes and cucumbers but seems to be ok for the beans. I planted two tomatoes (medium and cherry size) the smallest ones seem to take their time ripening. We've even had a touch of frost which affected my one hanging petunia -- saw a hummingbird bee the other day ... interesting little thing. Son visiting & doing a bit of the yard work which I used to do - let the young ones get fresh air and exercise. LOL It is starting to look and feel like an early fall - leaves changing colour & falling to the ground and the cold mornings. Can winter be far behind?

Nice to see more people popping in. Glad to hear Reen & Gil are still around -- I don't do Facebook, twitter, or any of those other things. Enough to keep up with this. Wishing all the potties a wonderful week. Marson

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAX - whenever it may be. LOL ... my mom had the same type of problem. Nice to see you again Ken. Off to the store & charity lunch .... will catch up to the board later. Marson

Gone are the garden days. Used to plant about 1/2 acre as well as having raspberries, an elderberry tree, current bushes, apple trees as well as saskatoons. Planted many spruce & larch. That property is gone. This one has terrible soil so I've got flowers - annuals & perennials in front of the house, a permanent planter by the front steps (matches the stone on the house), have a planter on the deck, hanging planters off the branches of the spruce and going wild yellow daylilies, potentilla, blackeyed susans, and peonies. Deciding if I should continue with them or turn it all into grass. Decisions, decisions, best left till fall. Marson

I've had that pop-up regarding the pottery site not secure but seems to be ok and don't have that come up for the glass or book board and it's all on the same site.

We've had some rain but not enough. Have been watering the flowers I put in as well as one cherry tomato plant & an Italian & a flat leaf parsley which I put in a flowerpot along with a carnation.

They say the best Vidalia onions are the ones from Georgia - seems like the soil and temperature are what make them so sweet. Only have a short season - it seems others try to pass off Vidalia onions grown in other areas of the country and they're not as sweet.

Have gone to a few garage sales - don't need anything per se but I still manage to come home with something. Time to clean out my garage but it's probably more cost efficient to give the items to charity or thrift stores than to sort, price, set up and sit all day(s) and make a small amount of money. However, if one has furniture and large items then it may pay.

Hope all the potties are safe & well. Marson of the prolific dandelions. P.S. the tulips are still blooming.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOADBOY

Planted my flowers & tomato plant & two types of parsley. Today it is raining, which is good. The soil is dry. Hope all are ok. Marson

Sun is shining, neighbour is cutting my grass, tulips are starting to bloom and went out to kill dandelions. Ended up getting some Roundup on my hand (went through the glove). Dangerous stuff Susan. Be very careful. Don't breathe it in (wear a mask), be well protected, etc. Have a red area on my thumb (washed it thoroughly & still seem to smell it - didn't wear my mask - bad me) Tossed the clothes I wore. Will be more careful next time. Sorry to hear about the poison ivy - been there, done that. I'm very susceptible to having it attack me and cause a rash and need of topical & internal medication. The stuff seems to grow in so many places although here in town I haven't seen it but at the old acreage it was by the saskatoon plants, bushes, lady-slipper orchids, etc. Seems like they liked to protect them.

Garage sale season has finally started but do I really need anything? Well, maybe a few items. New winter shovel, some fertilizer & grass seed, and some real bargains Then I'll have to have one of my own.

Hope the potties are doing well and enjoying the sunshine. Marson

Shelly, perhaps you could check with an art gallery/museum to have them recommend a person that does conservation or repair of such items. Some auction houses won't even take any item unless it is 'high class' and will bring in a sum worthy of their approval and they charge quite the consignment fee. You could try checking out good local auction houses or ones in the larger cities in your state.

It's finally warmer & the sun is shining and my tulips have buds. Hopefully we won't get a frost. However, the dandelions seem to be popping up all over and frost doesn't seem to bother them. Aaaarrgghhh. Need to weed them as well as crab grass. One way to get fresh air, exercise and a sore back. Need to read the board & see what's happening. Marson

All the snow off the roof is on my front yard & deck -- too heavy for me to push off, so I'll let the sun do a slow melt. Streets have lots of water puddles but with the wind also blowing it may dry some stuff. With this cool/damp weather I find it cooler in the house and have the heat higher than in winter ... the new furnace is quieter and operating and good to go for next winder. It's so nice to have the sun shining longer - my Christmas cactus is starting to bloom again which is nice & colourful. Debating if I want to walk to the store & pick up a few things or wait for a warmer less windy day. Hope the potties are doing well and enjoying nice weather. Marson

Last week had a friends grandson shovel the snow off my roof - took him 3 1/2 hrs. and a neighbour came with a snowblower & cleared the driveway. It's been cold - in the minus 30 degree Celsius. My furnace died a few days ago and am having a new one installed - thankfully it's only -3 C. but the sun is shining and I have heaters going -- hope it can get done, inspected and working today.

If it isn't the teeth, bones, muscles, joints, aches & pains then we're doing good. won't mention the sleeplessness but still plenty to be thankful for. It's spring and the moon was big & bright last night. Time to gather paperwork & have the taxes done and do some downsizing. Surprising how things accumulate. And yes I still like chocolate Gordon. Went after Valentine's day and bought boxes at 50 to 75 percent off. Nice to give away. Bought dark chocolate selection of Lindt for myself and some Ferraro Rochet variety for gifts as well.

Seems quiet down there - the installers must be taking a belated lunch or coffee break. Keep the potties in my prayers - you're not forgotten even though we don't "see" each other as much. Marson

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GORDON
wherever you are. Hope you and your doggies are well.
It's cold out here -40 with windchill, fortunately there's no wind I can see so it's probably just -30 C. Needless to say, I am staying indoors. Batteries die and cars don't move and heaters in vehicles have to work hard or konk out. Not much snow on the ground which is good & bad. Need the moisture for spring but good because one doesn't have to shovel. Only did that about 3 times this winter. Hope all the potties are doing well - will read the board later. Marson

Shelly - I didn't put up a tree this year (they're in the garage), didn't put up the nativity scene (out in storage) didn't do anything special, didn't send out Christmas cards (postal strike) It is good
🙂

MERRY CHRISTMAS

We had quite the snowfall but people did want a "white Christmas"
problem is, you have to shovel it. Some snowplows cleared the main streets but the others have to wait, A good Samaritan came with a tractor/snowblower cleared my driveway. Thank God.
Took me about 20 min. to shovel the deck which wasn't bad but if I have to do the driveway it would have taken hours going in shifts because it's not good to do it all in one time. Marson

Ken - that sounds like a camera I had - took lots of pictures, printed quite a few and have many of them on my computer & could probably put some on discs. However, the battery is shot & it's a pain to try to find one.....last time I tried, the store wanted approx. $35 Cdn. to order it. Now the camera is sitting idle without the battery (can't decide what to do) but it sure was a great camera.

Hope you feel better Susan and hope all the potties down south had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Marson

Hey Ken good to see you. A Judy used to poast here but she died years ago....had a son Toby who used to post on the glass board. Can't recall another Judy but I'm a newcomer. Susan nice to hear of you still having some growing plants. We've had a couple of snowfalls but so far it's melted but it has been cold.
Shelly come out wherever you are. Hope all the potties are well and enjoying the last of fall. Did everyone remember to turn back their clocks or are you in a zone that is keeping the old time? Marson

MAX - so sorry for your loss of Bob. Hugs Marson

Lots of cherry & plum tomatoes ... passing them around as there's more than enough for me. The city planted hibiscus at the back of their building & by the library - look nice but they're pulled out and tossed in fall as well as all the other plants. They should allow the residents to dig them up & keep them or put some of them for sale ... as well as the rose bushes. It's cooler now and gtting darker day by day - prefer this to the hot weather wew had. Hope all are doing well. Marson

Gayle is quite FAR AWAY from me....a few hours by plane but she's in a lovely area - saw it over 50 years ago. Have loads of cherry & grape tomatos and some plum tomatoes as well - delicious in a sandwich & the small ones in a salad. Nothing like a vine-riped warm tomato (not the store bought so-called vine-ripened ones which have a bit of a taste but not as good as a home grown one). The daylilies are still blooming, the alyssum & petunias got hit by bugs & the tomato plants are covering them. The geraniums in my planter are doing so-so: one is better than the other (2 different varities). Not too sure what I'll do next year but it will probably be a change. The elm tree will be coming down (has Dutch elm disease) and will trim down the carrigana and am considering removing the giant cedar & spruce. Had very little rain this year, quite a few hot days in summer -- hope we don't pay for it with a very cold winter. Marson

https://www.steinbachonline.com/local/saturday-storm-through-your-eyes

if you copy & paste that into your URL browser it will show you the type of weather we had yesterday - that's what you get when you have hot days - had plenty of rain yesterday & again this morning. Good thing the 50th anniversary parade was on Friday. Hit a few garage sales on Thurs. nothing there but at least my tomatoes are starting to turn colour - had one cherry tomato. Yay! Marson

Around here the city plants hibiscus in a few spots by the library, etc. but they don't overwinter them. Some people have them as houseplants but you need the right lighting & space but they do look nice. Have a few green tomatoes - but it's getting darker/sooner and cooler - hope it warms up - it's supposed to be sumer but some days it feels like fall. Roasted some veggies which I'm having for lunch. Hope all the potties are well. Marson

The garage sales have started but not as many as in previous years....now many surrounding communities have taken to having them on a different weekend so one can go to the area one wants. Have picked up a few items but do I really need them. If it's a good price, I buy it and then give it away. The fun is in the hunt. Planted a few tomatos but haven't got any annuals -- the tulips didn't do well but the dianthus are slowly starting up. Went poisoning the dandelions but there are always a few that get missed. Hopefully the grass with choke some of them out. Marson

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRANK
Hope you are well. Susan - my sister finally got the estate settled - two years since my mother died. It's over. Marson

Toadboy, Toadboy, come out wherever you are. LOL.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Hope you and the lovely Fran are doing well. G'day to all the potties. It's finally turning green here as well as yellow -- thanks to the prolific dandelions. Will have to go spritz them again but I dislike the heat; perhaps I'll go in the evening. Garage sale season has finally started - it's either too cold (think snow & winter) or cool & raining, now it's warmer so people can sit outdoors. Hope all the potties are well and enjoying summer. Marson

Well, we were hit with wind and wet snow - what a mess. Schools cancelled, highways closed, roads treacherous. Needless to say, I didn't go to help at the thrift store. Shovelled enough snow to bet able to get my feet out the house & unto the driveway - didn't even try to get a path to the road. The snow is heavy so I'll wait for it to either melt down (it's relatively warm out) or somebody to come with a snow blower, however, there's talk we'll get a repetition of this overnight. The farmers do need the moisture.

Know what you mean about printer/computer issues. Sometimes you have to install & reinstall more than once. Unplug or jiggle things around, push buttons, etc. Eventually it works - don't want to replace it yet.

Our hospital auxilliary is holding its' last Book Faire. Nobody wanted to take over as president so we'll be calling it quits.
Hope people in the community realize this will leave a hole in buying extras for the hospital which isn't covered under the system. A sports group might take over but they'll want the funding for themselves - they'll also have to find volunteers to run things as I don't think the auxilliary people want to do that.
Things change when people get older & the younger ones don't volunteer. People work or have other interests or are busy with family.

Need to do some downsizing (don't we all). Makes life interesting and I get plenty of exercise going back & forth trying to decide where everything should go. Hope all the potties are doing well - good health, peace & plenty of joy. Marson

Hugs to Shelly...hope they can diagnose your DS problem & that's it's easily dealt with. HELLO to all the potties. Marson

It is cold here approx 20 below zero -- had a snow storm yesterday, today many highways & schools closed. Managed to clear my deck but barely opened the front door - shovelled just enough so I could get out but will need somebody with a snowblower to do the job -- way too much snow for me to shovel & try to find a spot for it. Make matters worse, my injured? toe makes it hard to stand properly & I think I may have gotten a cold (pray it's not the flu that is going around). Drinking fluids & trying to rest. This too shall pass. Have a warm house, plenty of food so I don't have to go out. Hope the rest of you are well or getting better. Stay warm. Marson

I'm here in Manitoba aka Manisnowba -- it's above North Dakota ... Glad to see you check in Wes - sorry to hear that you're going through the treatments but pray that all will go well & bring healing. We've had a week of extremely cold weather and looks like it's going to continue. Haven't been out for almost a week - it's even cold in the garage & put on my jacket to go there. brrbrrrr!! Will read the board later & see what's going on. Hope more potties check in to say HI .... Marson

It's COLD out there -40 C. got a ride to a Christmas lunch (for people that didn't have family or anywhere to go or home alone) - decided to get out of my comfort zone and go - delicious turkey dinner & met new people & home before 2:30
Will have a nice quiet afternoon & evening watching Xmas movies & snuggled up in a long warm robe - not much snow outside but the cold makes up for it. Wishing the potties an enjoyable, health & wonderfully blessed Christmas season. Marson

Haven't read the board yet but thought I'd check in. Shovelled the driveway and will tackle the deck this afternoon unless the forecast comes to pass - expecting rain/snow - easy to shovel off the deck but alot harder on the driveway as it has to be lifted. Pretty well know my limits and try to be cautious when doing either. It's not cold but a bit icy so don't know if I'll venture to pick up the mail or wait for another day. Haven't put up my tree or decorations but I look at them daily as I go through the garage 🙂
I usually like to put up a creche or two and then a tree in the living room and a smaller one in the garage - used to put up four or more trees in the old house but I've downsized. Gave away alot of the decorations and have been picking up newer ones at the thrift store & garage sales.
Once a saver (hoarder) always a saver (hoarder NOT). Marson

Took about 25 min. this morning to shovel the sno & drift which accumulates on the driveway .... hate when the snow is damp because it sticks to the shovel & you either have to shovel it twice or remember to bang the shovel on the side for the snow to slide off - I do not bend & lift & throw - I have my own method - may look funny but it puts less strain on my body. I know my limits (I hope). They're having a Remembrance Day service on tv from our capitol so I'm listening to it and catching a glimpse of it as well. Still have to pick up my poppy. Hope all are doing well. Marson

Shovelled the deck & driveway yesterday in anticipation of the weather we're getting today - lots of snow & winds at 50 km per hour - visibility is starting to decrease. Glad I went grocery shopping yesterday as the next few days don't sound like ones to go out in unless necessary.
Tomorrow is Remembrance Day - the stores are closed from 9:00-1:00 and then they open for the day. Gives us a chance to remember the sacrifices the army, navy, airforce, etc. made to keep our country free and helped the allies in Europe. There's a monument by the post office where they'll be laying wreaths and having a short service. This area was largely populated by the Mennonites who are conscientous objectors so it's usually low key but with the demographics changing so are the people's feelings.
"Lest we forget" ... greatful Marson

Snow & sleet & gusty winds arrived. Can winter be far behind?
I'm taping Person of Interest on my PVR as it comes on after midnight - it's making more sense seeing it from the beginning (missed the last season). Used to watch Criminal Minds but it got too gory/realistic & stuff I didn't want to put in my head (reality is bad enough) Also watch NCIS (Chicago & L.A. but not New Orleans) - didn't want to get involved in another series. LOL ..... Birthday came and went - did my volunteering this morning - thought I'd get blown away 7 peletted with the white stuff. Didn't dig up my geraniums & draceana (except for two) sometimes the indoor ones carry over till spring and some die a natural death.
If it warms up I'll dig out and toss the rest of the flowers in the planter. But then again if the weather continues to be nasty I'll leave everything till spring & dispose of it then. All the best of health to the potties & families. Marson

Shelly - no, it's not finished yet. Sister was non-commital when I last spoke to her -- will try again soon .... the estate has been partially settled (the part that concerned my sister but the rest is in limbo or somewhere?). We've had alot of rain over the weekend but the land was dry so it's soaking in but alot of water on the roads. Did my volunteerism at the thrift store & should help with the Book Faire tomorrow. Who knows, maybe there'll be a garage sale this week. Marson