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  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659

    A neighbors sewer backed up into their home. A LOT of mess, plumber had to dig out and replace pipes, use of a mini backhoe, deep trench dug - all in all a total mess, over days. The plumber recommended a pressure relief sewer cap, so it would open before backing up into the house.

    The whole neighborhood is now putting on this sewer pressure relief valve. Before you can do that you have to locate your sewer cap. So yesterday I went out into the Florida 80+ degree sun 3x to dig in an area full of an invasive plant, to locate ours - based on where other villas have theirs located. I found it and then came in for some cool off rest. SO said we should dig out the plant that has run amuck; we never should have planted it. He came out and we filled up 8 wheel barrel fulls! Sweating like crazy & dirty as all heck. The dirt sticking to sweat. LOL

    I text our other next door neighbor to let them know about the whole issue. He came out and he dug up a few places. We found his with the cap sheared off, and stuffed inside the pipe! We think landscapers hit it & hid it. He was able to get the cap out, but the threaded edge remained. I grabbed a screwdriver & rubber mallet to try and wedge it out. No go. So then I grabbed a saw to carefully saw through it, but not hit the threads inside. Got it close, then used the screw driver to pop it out. PHEW! We know it was fortunate we told them, otherwise he’d never have known it was destroyed and once rainy season hit it could have easily filled with mud/mulch/dirt.

    We both ordered the new pressure relief cap. Ours will be delivered tomorrow, neighbors not until Saturday. We’re giving them ours because they have an immediate need. When theirs comes in we’ll take it. I was exhausted and filthy so I took my shower by 5 PM. HA!

    And last night was trash night. While still digging up plants, I put out curbside the tricycle, kids Yankee rocking chair, 2 patio chairs - all gone from my curb within hours. So happy to keep them from the landfill. Although one chair and an old tiny glass topped table were taken by the trash man this morning.

    It was a productive day. But I was too tired to tell you ladies the tale yesterday.

    Today we did a lot of running around for errands. And we did grab some weed & shrub killer to spray the entire area where the plant was dug out of. We have more of the same plant further back in the yard. I may just spray it and see what happens. The thought of digging it up makes me cringe.

    Tonight we had a hot dog dinner & bingo party at the clubhouse. We can’t giveaway cash so it’s all small gifts. Wouldn’t you know it, I received a small magnetic screwdriver set! And you all know I will use it. Hahahah

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Posts: 9,327

    The magnetic screwdriver set definitely went to the right owner! LOL. Glad you took steps to avoid a sewer backup. What a disgusting problem to confront as a homeowner.

    Betrayal, I'm amazed that you're having 90 degree temperatures. We haven't reached 90 degrees yet in south Louisiana. We are venturing into the 80's with humidity. It seems no time since you had the winter blues.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    I have always been a great believer that women should support women, and my admiration goes out to mothers everywhere, as they constantly put their own needs behind those of their children, embracing daily uncertainties and entering the new uncharted territories that each day brings, to be, in return, rewarded with joy and unending love.

    Victoria Beckham

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    cindyny, think your bingo prize was so appropriate.

    I agree it is too early for 90 degree weather but that's what we had for Wednesday and Thursday. Today is a high closer to 80 degrees and tolerable, though still not spring weather.

    Chris, hope you avoid any flooding.

    When I was young summer, back to back hurricanes (Connie and Diane) caused flooding of the Delaware river. We lived less than a mile away and our basement filled with water and was maybe 2 inches from the first floor. We had to leave the house and stayed with family friends. My parents were able to get my DD's saw, the washer and dryer out and my DD opened the basement windows to prevent basement wall collapse. My mom lost all her canning, other food and canned goods she stored in the basement. We lost a lot of toys, too. A neighbor used his row boat to rescue neighbor's cats, wild rabbits and other wild animals from drowning. I would not wish this experience on anyone.

    Today's projects were: clean walkway in top section of winter debris in hidden garden, power wash and then decorate front porch. First was accomplished and I removed 2 large garden bags of old leaves, walnuts, and weeds. The coming rain will wash off the dirt from the flag stone walkway. I'll do the lower section when the hyacinths are done blooming. I had to replace some large stones from the wall. The freeze and thaw cycle causes a few to dislodge every winter.

    Then moved on to porch and tried the new hose attachment spray washer DH had gotten. It worked on vey tiny spots only because of narrow stream. I have larger stains from the pumpkins and do not have the patience to spend hours using this tiny aperture power washer. DH dug out our larger Husky one and it proceeded to die before I even got to use it. Ugh.

    I had already placed an order from Home Depot for additional fencing and posts for tomorrow's project. DS and DGS are to come to assist DH with installation of better fencing around fence area damaged by tree branch hitting it. That is to be delivered today. Ordered new Ryobi power washer, with some new bells and whistles, from Home Depot and it will be delivered tomorrow. Can't wait to try it since it has 2100 psi's and should make my experience fun.

    I'll work on the decor which I can always relocate while I do the porch. I found I didn't have any green foam for some porch planters so DH made a trip to Michael's for me. I can't really put live flowers on the porch due to lack of good sunlight. I located the flowers, which are mostly silk geraniums, made for outdoor use and several pots. DH just returned so I'll get busy. I'll power wash the chair and glider tomorrow and put the cushions on after they dry. I have them ready to go as well as the two rugs I put down.

    I want to repaint some of my outdoor bird menagerie, but need weather that is dry, so it may have to wait until next week. Finished the porch flowers, got seat cushions and rugs from shed and they are on the glider for the moment.

    I'm tired and decided I will take the rest of the night off. Fencing arrived while I was working on porch and I never noticed the delivery guy. Can't really see area outside the garage from the porch. Hope the power washer arrives early.

    Hope everyone had a great day and waving "hi" to everyone.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    Endeavour to be faithful, and if there is any beauty in your thought, your style will be beautiful; if there is any real emotion to express, the expression will be moving.

    George Henry Lewes

  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659
    edited April 18

    Betrayal, re power washers. I love how great they clean and it can be fun as dirt & mold disappear before our eyes. But I have to do it on a warm day, as I always get drenched.

    Petite, beautiful pictures.

    We went with friends on a last minute boat ride. The river was calm and very peaceful. Afterwards we went back to their place to watch the sunset.

    IMG_4311.jpeg IMG_4313.jpeg

    As it truly set, the sky was beautiful shades of pink.

    We were home by 8:30, and Amazon had delivered that pressure relief sewer cap. I text the neighbors that I was going out to put it on. SO had the flashlight, I wore one of those head lamps - so bright they could blind you if you look at it (or so it feels that way!). It took 3 minutes maximum, because the original cap had been sheared off, you just screw it on, hand tight. As my neighbor was texting me to just wait until tomorrow, it was done. They’re happy, I’m happy to help out.

    Today we’re headed up to Punta Gorda for a seafood & music fest. It moves around town to town, sometimes with different bands, but we think this is the last one of the season.

    Speaking of heat… it will hit 91 today. I’ll just drink lots & lots of water, maybe a lemonade tossed in. The plan at the festival is to get there about 2:30, and leave around 5-5:30. I know I’ll be soaked in the heat. I may wear a cotton dress I’ve had for years, only reason is because I don’t think it will stick to me. I’m hoping we’ll get a breeze off the water, as it’s right next to it. Fingers crossed!

    Everyone talking of gardens and flowers makes me want to get to my NY home. They’ve had 80’s for a few days now, but dropping back with highs 47-52. So that stops me.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    DS and DGS showed up to help with tilling old pachysandra bed that hasn't done well since walkway was installed. DS borrowed his neighbors small rototiller and it did an amazing job of removing weeds, turning over the compacted soil and then we added the soil amendments to see if this will help. I think the compaction was part of the problem. DGS was charged with mixing and applying the soil amendment while DS tilled it in. Ds raked and had DGS used the leaf blower to get leaves out of the pachysandra that had survived the landscaping build. I had DGS retrieve the 2 bags of leaves and debris from the secret garden area and bring it to the garage so DH can put it out with Tuesday's trash.

    Once that was off, they started removing the old fence that had been damaged and then worked on installing new stakes and the new fencing. Then DS discovered our water remediation drains were full of debris so he and DGS worked on removing leaves and lots of dirt. The overflow tank channel was plugged with dirt so they cleaned it out and then used the hose to ensure the main channel was patent. They worked so hard and actually went beyond what I had expected.

    I planted pachysandra that I had pulled from the stone wall in the secret garden area. I had about 150 pieces to plant and got it done.

    Just as DS and DGS were planning on leaving, Fedex delivered my new Ryobi power washer. They helped DH assemble it. Once they were gone, I finished the pachysandra bed and then started power washing the porch. I did the furniture, the shutters, the beam (it needs some hand scrubbing), and the steps. The new power washer came with an attachment meant for walkways or larger areas. So I did the walkway and was amazed at how dirty it really was. We rinsed it with the hose and I watered the pachysandra bed several times to ensure there is no runoff when it rains tomorrow. Once the furniture and porch dried, I was able to put down the rugs, place the artificial flower pots where I wanted them and then put the cushion on the glider and swivel chair. The porch is now done!

    We are calling it quits for today. Dinner is from the local Italian cafe we love and then we will chill.

    petite1, loved your photos. Cherokee National Forest is gorgeous.

    cindyny, like you I love to power wash and today's high was in the 70's so it was tolerable to work outside. There was also some breeze gusts that helped keep me from overheating. My feet and pant legs are soaked, too. The power washer is my new "toy". I think the patio is next because this was so much fun. If the weather cooperates I'd like to get some more gardening done before we leave for Ireland.

    I loved your sunset photo. My DSIL when they are in FL sends photos she takes of the sunset to her local TV station and has had several make the screen.

    Hope everyone had a wonderful day and waving "hi" to everyone.

  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659

    It was 90 today, and of course we were outside sitting in full sun melting. The concert was fun, music was good. We stopped at a restaurant for dinner, skipping the mostly fried seafood at the festival.

    IMG_4328.jpeg

    The saxophonist from Deb & The Dynamics came out into the crowd playing. Beautiful day along the river with somewhat of a breeze.

    We were home after swinging by to pick up an order from JC Penny, new sheets; and parts to bring my sewer cap up to ground level; home about 8:30.

    Tomorrow I’m grabbing new gas grill if any are left. A nice Char-Broil to replace my no name one. And helping gf look at floor names for her husband. Then maybe attempt to finish up the sewer cap project.

    I hope you all had a great day, and will get to enjoy tomorrow too.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    Comedians have to challenge the power. Comedians should be dangerous and devastating - and funny. That's the hardest part.

    Mort Sahl

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Posts: 9,327

    Betrayal, your focus has shifted from indoors to outdoors gardens. We have two power washers, one smaller with less force and one with more force. Too much force can be destructive. We have a stamped concrete surface on our back porch and adjoining patio and on the front walkway. Not only does the surface have to be cleaned but every few years it needs a sealing coating. It is needing the coating now as well as cleaning.

    This afternoon we're attending a choral program out of a sense of obligation. We both know one of the performers very well and I know another performer who is a member of our exercise/lunch foursome. Actually, she has stopped coming to exercise class because it is too difficult for her with her physical problems but she meets the three of us at the restaurant of choice. After the music program, dh and I will have dinner at a casual restaurant, probably one in our own neighborhood.

    We got light rain overnight. Light enough that I didn't hear rain. We're in rain deficit so the moisture is welcome.

    Cindy, you will probably be headed north soon?

  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659

    Carole, we haven’t set an absolute date yet. Early May is how we tell folks that ask. We’re stopping in NC to visit my stepson so add a day; then my grandniece asked about my timing to get home to see her for her prom, which is May 9. So it could be very early May that we leave.

    We’re leaving tomorrow for St Petersburg for one overnight. If we get there early enough, we’ll hit tourist spots, then we’re going to see the Rays play back home in Trop stadium - the roof has been repaired after a hurricane destroyed it. The next day after check out we’ll tour around some more before heading back to Fort Myers.

    I’ve opted out of buying a new grill, changed my mind overnight. SO won a griddle which we haven’t even set up yet. I figure next season we’ll get the griddle going, still have my grill, and if necessary (vs ohh a sale!) I’ll look into a new grill.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    carole, you are correct and I can tell you what I do outside remains more or less permanent whereas what I do in the house is, at best, just temporary. So guess which I prefer? Other than intrusive weeds or vines and the deer who consider my hosta a salad bar, upkeep out there also lasts longer. Unfortunately, the deer have become voracious snackers in the yard so I have had to resort to fencing in areas I would have preferred remain open. However, the fencing ensures the plantings survive. They did a job on the cypress trees this winter, but when I examined them yesterday, the bare branches have sprouted some new growth. They will be fenced in this summer to preserve them. The fencing we are using is less intrusive than some since it is green with larger openings, but there is no disguising the green posts. The dog woods, the rhododendrons, and the azaleas are in bloom as is one of the old fashioned lilacs that my DF gave me. It was a transplant from my childhood home yard (as were some azaleas on the front hill). It had taken a tree strike and I wasn't sure it would survive, but it did even if a bit smaller. The lilacs with the smaller flowers, the white and purple one, have plenty of buds. My favorite is the purple which is right in front of our front door and it smells divine when it blooms. They should bloom shortly.

    Today is the complete antithesis of the past week. It is barely in the 50's, gray, rainy and quite breezy. So I think that I will focus on household chores today. They sort of get neglected when I am gardening. I have 3 orchids in bloom and all of them have bloomed before. I do not fuss over them and 2 of them cost less than $4 each, but are spectacular when in bloom. The miniature cost more, but this is about the 3rd time it has bloomed.

    I need to hem a pair of slacks that I bought for the fall's cruise, but that will be when I sit to watch TV. I clean bird cages on Sundays and that usually creates a floor mess, so I'll vacuum the eat in area and the kitchen. I need to do some clean up in DD's old room so that's on the agenda for today. It's mostly addressing the closet where I store my vacation clothing and summer clothing. Too early to do that switch yet, so that can wait until we return from Ireland.

    I did do the closet and am happy to say the new storage containers I found at Five Below were ideal for holding all the smaller items that I had on the shelves and take up so much space or end up being piled on top of each other. I labeled the bins with the contents so I can pull them out as needed for a trip. The closet looks nice and neat now. I have some donations and 2 items that may require some tailoring so I can use them; they need to be hemmed and taken in. I pulled out toiletries I will need to pack, my carry on bag that holds the zippered bags I use for my prescription meds and a few other items I need to pack. I'll take a look at what I will wear this week and probably move the clothes to this closet. Since it is 2 separate tours of about 12 days each, we have to do laundry at some point and do have time between the tours. We honeymooned there about this time of year so we know the weather will be damp, cooler and sometimes rainy.

    Hope everyone had a wonderful day and waving "hi" to everyone.

    cindyny, enjoy the game and St. Petersburg. Our favorite Fl spot was Treasure Island.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    My grandmother lived to 104 years old, and part of her success was she woke up every morning to a brand new day. She said every morning is a new gift. Her favorite hobby was collecting birthdays.

    George Takei

  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659
    edited April 21

    Having fun in St Pete! Baseball game was good, although Tampa lost. We were able to take a free baseball trolley from a spot across the street from our hotel up & back from the game.

    While SO converses with everyone, god love him, this time it paid off. The guy next to him told him if we purchased our tickets thru Ballpark app we’d get $10 back per ticket on the app, that expires after the game. I had bought him a tee shirt and myself a coozy, $54. Fortunately we were allowed to return the items, and use the $20 credit to repurchase; final cost to me $34. Nice perk!

    IMG_4338.jpeg IMG_4335.jpeg

    It was nice to see the dome intact. After a hurricane destroyed it, I think there was talk of it being too expensive to repair. I can’t remember the details but I think a person or corporation put up a lot of money to help cover the cost. I should look it up - per Google it was the city and FEMA.

    Tomorrow we hope to get down to the pier on Tampa Bay to look around. Then drive over to the Sunken Gardens. Afterwards we’ll grab a bite to eat and head home.

    Enjoy the day!

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    The more I see of deer, the more I admire them as mountaineers. They make their way into the heart of the roughest solitudes with smooth reserve of strength, through dense belts of brush and forest encumbered with fallen trees and boulder piles, across canons, roaring streams, and snow-fields, ever showing forth beauty and courage.

    John Muir

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    The heat of a week ago is gone and now we are back into freezing weather. It is currently 38 degrees with high of mid 50's later today. It is sunny so that is a plus. Yesterday was also cold. So to go from the 90's to this is a real weather shift with a frost advisory for all farmers.

    We spent yesterday trying to line up a trip to Canada in the summer of 2027. We planned a 14 day cruise from Boston to Montreal with a return to Boston. Then we will fly back to Montreal to pickup a land tour of Canada's eastern province and the Gaspe peninsula which is 11 days. It's a small group of less than 25 which is what we prefer. Issue was created when travel agent tried to book a 14 day cruise only to learn the cruise line had put a hold on the block of rooms where we wanted to be for a 7 day cruise passengers. We could have booked 2-7 day cruises to get this room, but it meant we would have had to disembark at the end of the 7 day cruise, go through customs and then wait in the terminal for hours before we could reboard the ship, plus it would cost $400 more more person.

    We tried various work arounds including trying to book a suite rather than a verandah room, but the only suites were on the fan tail and no one wants those rooms due to noise and motion. Our travel agent suggested we pick a room we wanted, she would contact the cruise line and see if they would release the hold on the room for a guaranteed customer. We asked her to mention we should have the advantage of being long-term cruisers with them. It worked and we were able to book both trips and get the room we wanted. This was the only way we could align both trips start and stop dates. We do advanced booking for this reason even though it appears to be so far away, we have found that they sometimes book quickly. She spent hours working on this and this is not the first time she has gone the extra mile to get the vacation we wanted sorted out. We sent her an Amazon gift card since she saved us $800 to boot.

    I started to gather trip items together. Today I worked on gathering the medications both prescription and OTC's for the carryon. I just need to finish the meds I take at night and can pack them in the zippered cases I use. I pulled out the travel purse I use and checked its contents and the only thing I need to add is money and credit cards to the travel wallet which has the RDF built in. I'll start putting outfits together and the jewelry I want to take as well today. I can store them temporarily in DD's closet until I want to pack. I can pack undies and other clothing like nightgowns, slippers, shoes, sneakers, raincoat, etc. now. It's just the tops and slacks I'll wait on to minimize how wrinkled they get. That's the plan for today to start that process since I am sure I will change my mind at the final pass. You know the rule, pack everything and then remove half.

    cindyny, love the photos. Loved what your SO did and th fact you saved money on your purchases.

    I am like your SO at times when it comes to talking to what I think are interesting people. I saw a guy on a trolley in SF that had a shirt on that read the SS Jeremiah O'Brien. I asked what it was and if he worked there. He was a volunteer on this WWII Liberty ship in the harbor and invited us to visit it as his guests, if our day plans permitted. We real had no formal plans for the day, just to spend it down at the waterfront, so we took him up on it. We arrived, asked for him and he gave us a tour of the ship that was not available to those who paid for the tour. We went into areas not accessible to them and saw the engine room that was used in the film Titanic. We spent several hours on this tour and he was with us every minute explaining everything we saw. At the end we offered him a tip, which he declined, and asked us to put into the donation box instead, which we did. He asked for our address and invited us back to take the annual October cruise on this ship. We have not been able to do that unfortunately. Again we would have been his guests. My DH is sometimes embarrassed when I do this, but I have met some very nice, helpful and generous people. It has lead to opportunities and experiences like this. So I applaud your SO.

    Hope everyone has a great day and waving "hi" to everyone.

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Posts: 9,327

    We visited the Gaspe peninsula on an extensive RV trip to Canada. During the visit there was a violent storm that rocked our 38 ft. 5th wheel camper. We rolled in the slides. Glad you are able to visit the peninsula, Betrayal.

    Today I will miss going to lunch with my Wednesday exercise friends. I'm playing golf. A golf friend asked me to play, and I couldn't say no. I'm sure I will enjoy her company and getting out on the golf course.

    Happy Wednesday to all.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    It is not necessary that whilst I live I live happily; but it is necessary that so long as I live I should live honourably.

    Immanuel Kant

  • harley07
    harley07 Posts: 632

    betrayal - you have some amazing trips planned! I’m not familiar with the Gaspe peninsula so I’ll have to look that up. I hope you will be able to share photos of your trip to Ireland, even if we have to wait until you are home.

    Cindy - glad you got to see the Ray’s game. I remember when the hurricane took the roof off so it’s nice to see that it has been repaired.

    Petite - I don’t recall if I commented on your pictures of the Cherokee National Forest - but they are beautiful.

    We are having fantastic weather today - low 70’s and sunny so I got in a very relaxing 10 mile ride. My right knee is acting up but riding seems to be okay. I just do not ride very fast.

    Waving ‘hi’ to all

  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659

    We got home last night, tired but we had a great time.

    We walked down to the marina and yacht club. Then wandered over to the pier, short walk. There is a St. Pete History museum, so of course we went in. A lot of information on how they got tourists to visit; hence a lot of old postcards. Sunshine for good health!

    IMG_4339.jpeg IMG_4354.jpeg

    The museum also has the largest collection of autographed baseballs, Guinness book sized collections. SO was in his glory, it’s called Little Cooperstown. This is a shot of the “girls” league.

    From there we took a short drive to the Sunken Gardens to tour it. It has a great back story, and was super enjoyable in the shade.

    IMG_4391.jpeg

    This is a desert rose double flower. Such a beauty, I’ll look for one next season for here.

    IMG_4382.jpeg

    This is an area where weddings are held.

    IMG_4392.jpeg

    We will come back to St Pete again next season or year. Not too far away, with a lot to see and do.

    Today was a rest day, somewhat. I dyed my roots and rinsed out in the guest shower. And then cleaned the glass doors. The shower glass doors were rinsed but needed scrubbing. To say I hate this is an understatement. It’s one of those be careful what you wish for. I suppose I could remove the glass doors and replace them with shower curtains but not realistic.

    That’s my story. Hope you had a good day!

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    This life, which had been the tomb of his virtue and of his honour, is but a walking shadow; a poor player, that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more: it is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.

    William Shakespeare

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Posts: 9,327

    Teka, nobody "won." We keep our own scorecards and don't bet, like so many men do. It's all for fun and exercise. I have been playing 9 holes the last few years and played 18 yesterday. I was tired and "took it easy" the rest of the day. The golf course this time of year is good for scoring because of the roll. I scored well for my current high handicap game.

    Nothing planned for today.

    Cindy, your St. Pete visit offered lots of good entertainment. You're a good sightseer.

    Happy Thursday.

  • petite1
    petite1 Posts: 2,493

    Good to see the Trop back to use. It was sad after the hurricane destroyed it. I lived in St. Pete from age 5 to 22.

    I haven't been quite right since my last NC trip. I think it was a UTI. I have been drinking cranberry juice and extra H2O. I probably won't get back to NC until May. If there is a mouse in the traps, it will be stinky. My brother is planning a trip to NC in June. I hope to have everything in order by then.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.

    George Washington Carver

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    Yesterday was a beautiful day, sunny temps close to 81, again unseasonal, with a mild breeze. I was still gathering items to pack and packing some that I could in their respective travel bags such as medications, etc. which will go in my carryon.

    I took 2 items back to TJMAXX and of course, came home with 3 unexpected purchases that will go on fall cruise. One item wasn't on the receipt I had, but they were able to find it on my credit card purchases and do a return. Return paid for more than one item purchased.

    We decided to eat out rather than order in and just as we were getting ready to crate Regan, DD and DSIL walked in the door. DD had been at the dentist and decided to stop by to see us. They ended up going to Rey Azteca with us and DD actually picked up the check. It was so pleasant out, we grabbed an outside table. It was quieter than being indoors and we had a good time. The meal was really good.

    Woke at 4:30 and at 5:30 called it quits. I have been struggling with mask seal on bipap and positions that do not disrupt seal. It's been a real problem lately, which means my sleep ahs also been challenging. So I am not feeling perky today and may actually take a nap later. Not hungry either.

    Temps today to only be in low 70's which is still unseasonal. Dogwoods, azaleas, and older type of lilacs are in bloom including one of the latter that hasn't bloomed in about 7 years. There are 2 more planted close by that I am wondering if they will surprise bloom as well. That would be a treat since the one that bloomed is white and the others are red and blue. Perhaps as a tribute to the 250th anniversary?

    Need to water transplanted pachysandra today. Light rains meant I haven't had to do it yet, but today they will. I want them to survive after all that work.

    cindyny, lovely photos. We used to stay at the Bilmar Beach on Treasure Island when we were in that area. No one was ever on the beach.

    petite1, hope you feel better soon.

    Hope all have a great day and waving "hi" to everyone.

  • cindyny
    cindyny Posts: 1,659

    Gardening talk makes me anxious to do some. Haha But here I don’t want to plant anything as we’re leaving, and I’m not up in NY to start planting there.

    Yesterday we put down mulch under the avocado tree. I need to trim back a lot of plantings, as rainy season and sunshine will make them too big by time I get back.

    We also still need to dig more dirt out around the new sewer clean out/pressure valve. And respray the whole area with the weed/plant killer.

    But it will all wait because I’m off to Kohl’s & Beall’s to spend my $5 each store cash. I’ll grab some new shirts to bring back home.

    Dinner out tonight with about 6 of us. Will focus on clearing out our freezer tomorrow. Haha!

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    To be persuasive we must be believable; to be believable we must be credible; credible we must be truthful.

    Edward R. Murrow

  • carolehalston
    carolehalston Posts: 9,327

    My focus with cooking is to clean out the freezers, too, Cindy. I'm thawing a corned beef to cook today.

    Your temperatures are up and down, Betrayal. Hope the blossoms don't get zapped.

    We got rain overnight. It looks like greenhouse conditions outside.

    Molly's senior exercise class was strenuous yesterday. My body is feeling the exertion this morning.

    Happy Saturday to everyone.

  • betrayal
    betrayal Posts: 6,054

    Rainy today with temps now in the high 40's after being in the mid 50's this morning. We need to rain because we are in a drought, even after having record snow falls this winter. Just doing routine stuff around the house such as feeding the birds, watering plants and straightening up. Organized 2 drawers in the dresser and 2 in the nightstands because I was tired of having to sort through them. I had the organizers and they fit, so now everything is visible and I can grab and go as needed. I did find several items that were moved to a better location with like objects ad dome that can be tossed.

    Getting items together to go into suitcase probably on Wednesday since we leave on Thursday. Carryon bag is packed. I have the clothing organized and will winnow as I pack them. I'm aiming to have suitcase weigh around 40 lb when finished and contain enough clothing for the 25 days we will be in Ireland. We are taking 2 different tours with some overlap in sights, but have some down time, in and between, where we will be able to find a laundry to clean and press dirty clothes. DD and DSIL are staying here to provide care to Misty and Leo (cats), Regan (Dalmatian), Bumble Bee (canary) and Uno and Dad (parakeets). We gave them some gift certificates for local restaurants and leave money, too, plus they have access to the freezer foods.

    We will celebrate our 51st wedding anniversary on Mother's Day in Kinsale. Kinsale is a beautiful coastal town with an old fort on the opposite side from the town. We also visit Blarney on that date. When we honeymooned there, I kissed the Blarney Stone, but doubt I will try again, but who knows? I climbed the Acropolis hill in Athens on my then bad knees more than once and now with new knees maybe the castle climb won't be too strenuous.

    We will be going to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, and this is a first for us. As many times as we have visited Ireland in the past, we never made it to the Aran Islands.

    carole, I think we have had a touch of all 4 seasons in the last 2 weeks. When do you head north?

    cindyny, hope you found some good buys at Kohl's or Beall's.

    Hope everyone had a great day and waving "hi" to everyone.