....to get your wheels back. It must feel so good to get behind the wheel after so long. Be sure to keep it up. When we go out together it is always Harry driving (mostly always) so when I have to go on my own, I enjoy getting behind the wheel. I like to bring a favourite CD or two to play. I find that I must be super observant at all times for fear of missing something. Not long ago I was driving in North Bay with Harry and didn't I almost miss a stop sign - came to a quick stop with all feet on the breaks. Doesn't do well to do this sort of thing with the spouse riding beside you.
On Sunday I got bit again - this time on my left upper arm. I was picking raspberries and felt something poke me - I thought it was a branch until I started to itch badly. Soon a welt started and grew bigger and bigger. By next morning I was red, hot and swollen down the arm to below the elbow. Harry had a Drs appointment in Huntsville as a follow up to his colonoscopy two weeks ago so we were in Huntville at the Mall. I stopped into the Pharmacy to see if they had any cream The pharmacist sold me a box of benadryl tablets and suggested I have it looked at. Since there was a walk in clinic in the same building as Harry's Drs I decided I should go. A great line up with about 8 to 10 folks ahead of me but when I got to the check in she asked if I had gone to my own Dr ( also in same building) She actually phoned my office to see if they could see me and sure enough I was told to go there. I was already feeling better about it now since I would be more comfortable with my own Dr. As it turned out I was seen my one of the other Drs ( this office is a family health team so any of the doctors may see you - the records are all electronic so my history comes up quickly) She marked the outer edge of the swelling with a pen and told me to keep taking the benadryl but also gave me a Rx for an antibiotic. If I was not seeing any improvement by this morning I was to start on the antibiotic pills. It was improved this morning and has been improving all day so now I am feeling better about the whole thing. Last year I was stung by a wasp on my finger and it took me three weeks to treat it my self but I had the same reaction - swelling and redness going up my hand to my wrist. I think that as I am getting older, my responses to such incidences are getting worse. I am not as bad as you Cathy, but I wonder at some point if I may not actually develop an immediate systemic response or... with these recent events, is my body developing the necessary antigens to fend off such an attack? I think you Cathy are the the most knowledgeable about this?
Well, time to say goodnight...and do some more reading before lights out. Take care.
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Monday, August 10, 2015
Got my Wheels back!!
We saw the orthopedic surgeon again today. He thinks I'm doing well enough not to need another follow-up for 18 months. And I can drive again! So we came home, and then I took the car out to get my self a haircut. I think I'll still be nervous about driving at night, at least until I see the ophthalmologist at the end of September. We figured out that I haven't been driving regularly since the beginning of March 2014. So I guess there will be a bit of a re-learning curve, and I'll certainly need practice.
The slow cooker chicken didn't turn out too badly. The chicken itself was certainly better than the previous time, when I tried to roast it, but still not great. It was just too tough an old hen. The tomato was fine. I kept it, and had more for supper tonight. I think I would make it again, for myself. I used to make a similar dish,, by frying the tomatoes, and adding a few bread crumbs and some sliced Zucchini, but David is not fond of tomato at the best of times.
Today I made up oatmeal cookies from Mom's old recipe that gets rolled, and put in the fridge to be sliced and baked later. From the ingredients, I have to guess that it is probably an old depression recipe, and this made me think about how many things we had at home that probably came from the depression, and even from Dad's life at home before that. Things with just basic ingredients, no eggs or no butter. Do you remember Boiled Raisin cake? I used to make that when the children were small. It was so good with lemon icing. Remember how Dad used to add bits of cheese and bread to pan fried potatoes. I sure used to enjoy that, but now realize it was a way to stretch the potatoes and add a bit of protein.
It looks like one of our little plants may not make it. We'll have to keep an eye on it. Worry about it tomorrow.
The slow cooker chicken didn't turn out too badly. The chicken itself was certainly better than the previous time, when I tried to roast it, but still not great. It was just too tough an old hen. The tomato was fine. I kept it, and had more for supper tonight. I think I would make it again, for myself. I used to make a similar dish,, by frying the tomatoes, and adding a few bread crumbs and some sliced Zucchini, but David is not fond of tomato at the best of times.
Today I made up oatmeal cookies from Mom's old recipe that gets rolled, and put in the fridge to be sliced and baked later. From the ingredients, I have to guess that it is probably an old depression recipe, and this made me think about how many things we had at home that probably came from the depression, and even from Dad's life at home before that. Things with just basic ingredients, no eggs or no butter. Do you remember Boiled Raisin cake? I used to make that when the children were small. It was so good with lemon icing. Remember how Dad used to add bits of cheese and bread to pan fried potatoes. I sure used to enjoy that, but now realize it was a way to stretch the potatoes and add a bit of protein.
It looks like one of our little plants may not make it. We'll have to keep an eye on it. Worry about it tomorrow.
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Blueberries
Since I've been eating blueberries and yogurt every morning for the past couple of months, I felt that I just couldn't face another blueberry today. So I suggested we go to Tim's for breakfast. David doesn't really like eating there and I agree that it's just become too expensive to go regularly, as we did when we were cycling. I'm sort of glad we did, as it turns out the building is going to be renovated, starting Tuesday, and there will only be a drive through. Good to know, so we can avoid it for awhile.
We made the mistake of buying some bone-in chicken breasts that have turned out to be old and tough. We tried roasting a couple of them awhile ago--awful! So today I decided to try them in the slow cooker. I remembered seeing a recipe awhile ago, but do you think I could find it? So I decided to "wing it". It had stuck in my mind as it used salsa--and I had one jar left. But that's all I remember about the recipe. Do you realize that it was 2011 when we made salsa? I mixed it with a can of Aylmer Accents diced tomatoes, and added a bit of chopped green pepper, and basil. I have no idea how it will turn out, but it can't be much worse than when we roasted the chicken.
My strategy of making a job list, no matter how silly, is working. We are both getting things done and are finding ourselves more active. While I haven't finished scrubbing door frames with my Magic Eraser, ( a long term project), today I moved onto washing both thresholds. Sounds silly, but when I saw how dirty and dusty they were, I knew it needed doing. I think I did it once before, but the memory is so vague, that I may have just thought about doing it, or it may have been in a different house. No matter, it's done.
David has been having trouble finding sweat jackets that he likes (and look good, but that's my criterion). He has had the most success in the States, but now that we aren't going there, it has become a problem. Awhile back he found one, only one, in WalMart, and it has proven even more useful than we anticipated. When we were in there the other day, I suggested he see if there might be another one. Sure enough there were three of them. We sort of looked at each other and I said buy them all, and we did (the price was right). They need to be altered , just a bit, so one has been done, and the rest wait until he's ready to bring them out. This has been a long standing problem and I'm glad to see it solved--for awhile.
So now, 11:00am, I can move onto fun stuff.
We made the mistake of buying some bone-in chicken breasts that have turned out to be old and tough. We tried roasting a couple of them awhile ago--awful! So today I decided to try them in the slow cooker. I remembered seeing a recipe awhile ago, but do you think I could find it? So I decided to "wing it". It had stuck in my mind as it used salsa--and I had one jar left. But that's all I remember about the recipe. Do you realize that it was 2011 when we made salsa? I mixed it with a can of Aylmer Accents diced tomatoes, and added a bit of chopped green pepper, and basil. I have no idea how it will turn out, but it can't be much worse than when we roasted the chicken.
My strategy of making a job list, no matter how silly, is working. We are both getting things done and are finding ourselves more active. While I haven't finished scrubbing door frames with my Magic Eraser, ( a long term project), today I moved onto washing both thresholds. Sounds silly, but when I saw how dirty and dusty they were, I knew it needed doing. I think I did it once before, but the memory is so vague, that I may have just thought about doing it, or it may have been in a different house. No matter, it's done.
David has been having trouble finding sweat jackets that he likes (and look good, but that's my criterion). He has had the most success in the States, but now that we aren't going there, it has become a problem. Awhile back he found one, only one, in WalMart, and it has proven even more useful than we anticipated. When we were in there the other day, I suggested he see if there might be another one. Sure enough there were three of them. We sort of looked at each other and I said buy them all, and we did (the price was right). They need to be altered , just a bit, so one has been done, and the rest wait until he's ready to bring them out. This has been a long standing problem and I'm glad to see it solved--for awhile.
So now, 11:00am, I can move onto fun stuff.
Yummy...
Blueberry muffins hot from the oven...I love your recipe, Pati! The only thing is that these particular blueberries that Harry picked from the Nursery are very large and I fear that I put too many into the batter. Consequently the muffins seem to be mostly blueberry haha!
Oh, I'll eat them, don't you worry. But next time I will choose smaller berries and perhaps less in amount. Enjoying them anyway!
I'm also trying to put together a train set that Harry bought at a garage sale. I do not have enough space set up on two card tables with using my styrofoam sheets over them ( the sheets that I was using for my hexis) The train works even though I don't have it all set up. Enough!
On with the day.....Take care
Oh, I'll eat them, don't you worry. But next time I will choose smaller berries and perhaps less in amount. Enjoying them anyway!
I'm also trying to put together a train set that Harry bought at a garage sale. I do not have enough space set up on two card tables with using my styrofoam sheets over them ( the sheets that I was using for my hexis) The train works even though I don't have it all set up. Enough!
On with the day.....Take care
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Sunflower Festival today
The street will be closed to traffic and vendors will fill the space with their wares. Music will be playing from the stand set up in the little park area on the street and food will be available everywhere (for a price) The officials will give their speeches at 0945 am - sure to see the local federal candidates out seeking every one's attention! And tonight there will be a street dance for those so inclined (not us) Tomorrow is the big Triathlon - very popular now and people come from all over the province to compete.
Our Dutch neighbours arrived Thursday night about 9 pm. I haven't yet seen them to say hello and welcome but that will soon come as we are out in the yard more. I cherished the quiet and privacy we have enjoyed by not having anyone right next door - our little sitting area may not be as enjoyable for the next month or so. I believe they are staying until Sept 16 this year. The are very nice folks so I don't worry that much, but I think we have been spoiled a little !!
harry is off to his garage sales but will return by 0930 and we'll walk to the downtown from here.
So I better start my Saturday chores (ie washing laundry) and enjoy a little time alone with another coffee while I can!
Enjoy your weekend. Take care. ps leave the Magic Cleaner Pati - I'll not notice anything when I come. BTW - one of the cats left a dead mouse on the floor for us this morning. I think it must be the little cat as neither of the other two were ever mousers. I guess I better check my cupboards again yuck!
Our Dutch neighbours arrived Thursday night about 9 pm. I haven't yet seen them to say hello and welcome but that will soon come as we are out in the yard more. I cherished the quiet and privacy we have enjoyed by not having anyone right next door - our little sitting area may not be as enjoyable for the next month or so. I believe they are staying until Sept 16 this year. The are very nice folks so I don't worry that much, but I think we have been spoiled a little !!
harry is off to his garage sales but will return by 0930 and we'll walk to the downtown from here.
So I better start my Saturday chores (ie washing laundry) and enjoy a little time alone with another coffee while I can!
Enjoy your weekend. Take care. ps leave the Magic Cleaner Pati - I'll not notice anything when I come. BTW - one of the cats left a dead mouse on the floor for us this morning. I think it must be the little cat as neither of the other two were ever mousers. I guess I better check my cupboards again yuck!
Friday, August 7, 2015
Rain, again.
The second dull rainy day. It's so hard to stay up beat when even the Heavens are crying. Since I can't seem to get settled to anything, I drew up a job list today, and worked diligently from it. Didn't get everything done, but I kept myself busy. There has been one especially difficult area to clean. I've tried several products over the past year with no success, so today I went out and bought a Magic Eraser. It appears to be working, but takes a fair bit of elbow grease. I bought 3 Magic Erasers, as there are similar spots in a couple of other areas of the house, but progress will depend on how well my wrists function, so this looks like a long term project. Maybe I'll be finished by the time you guys get here in December.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
It looks very nice
I can now see the finished garden - I think I saw a hydrangea yesterday that was not there yet but now it is..haha. You will be anxious to start to see the plants flourish and grow. Give them lots of water and TLC. We have hostas that badly need splitting so perhaps I will take a few lessons from Dave in the Fall and see if I can do the same here.
Bits and starts of rain over last few days -just enough to be a bit annoying - you go out to work, and it starts to sprinkle and before you get inside, the sun is shining. It was the same all day and then again today. I headed out just now to go to the bank in the sun and halfway down the block it sprinkles - fortunately I carried my umbrella. Harry decided we should go to visit the lady in Huntsville tomorrow. He called the friend and she was so glad. She is having some difficulties with her Mother - wants to come home and says she can look after herself (which is not the case). So we shall go and visit and give Carolyn a wee break.
I actually got out my hexis yesterday and did a bit of sewing in between rain showers.It felt good to get back at it but I know it won't be a regular occurrence - not until the winter comes again. I am into my third book of The Templar Trilogy by Jack Whyte (a Canadian author) I am so enjoying the read and cannot seem to read fast enough. Usually only a chapter or two each night Historical fictions are enjoyable as you get the History part all wrapped up in a great story.
Well, back to what I was doing. Just wanted to compliment you on your beautiful front flower beds.
Take care
Bits and starts of rain over last few days -just enough to be a bit annoying - you go out to work, and it starts to sprinkle and before you get inside, the sun is shining. It was the same all day and then again today. I headed out just now to go to the bank in the sun and halfway down the block it sprinkles - fortunately I carried my umbrella. Harry decided we should go to visit the lady in Huntsville tomorrow. He called the friend and she was so glad. She is having some difficulties with her Mother - wants to come home and says she can look after herself (which is not the case). So we shall go and visit and give Carolyn a wee break.
I actually got out my hexis yesterday and did a bit of sewing in between rain showers.It felt good to get back at it but I know it won't be a regular occurrence - not until the winter comes again. I am into my third book of The Templar Trilogy by Jack Whyte (a Canadian author) I am so enjoying the read and cannot seem to read fast enough. Usually only a chapter or two each night Historical fictions are enjoyable as you get the History part all wrapped up in a great story.
Well, back to what I was doing. Just wanted to compliment you on your beautiful front flower beds.
Take care
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