Found out about Seattle Scottish Highland Games less than a week before. The Games are held at the Expo Center in Enumclaw the last weekend of July, this year 27-29. The drive is about 3 hours from Sequim. I looked for a motel room for Friday, all sold out or too expensive closer to Tacoma. Originally decided not to drive there and back in same day. There were some other things more local to go do.
Woke up Saturday morning and changed my mind after having some computer problems, off to Enumclaw. I had already printed out the directions and was familiar with route up to I 5. Traffic got heavy after the Tacoma Narrows bridge and stop and go at I 5 interchange. Construction has deleted the exit in Google maps. Took me a while to figure missed something. Saw a VIC, Visitor Info Center, for Fife and went there to find it closed. Looked at maps on phone and headed north a little, rest stop provided needed break and a person to get me back on correct road more easily than phone maps.
As driving further east, was able to see Mt Ranier. It was kind of hard to see due to haze and all the snow merge with the white clouds. Was slightly tempted to keep going there, but HLG called. Finally got there passing one turn off at edge of town and easily backtracked. It was late enough, after 4 hour drive, that there was closer up parking to entrance available. Could hear some music from parking lot. Happy music.
The venue has VERY little shade. It was a good size event. Lots of clans tents. Good number of usual type of vendors. Only one pottery stall. A bunch of stages. There were areas for animals, heavy athletic events, pipe/drum bands, a couple of 'beer gardens'. Walk Through Time was area for reenactors - Vikings, Picts, Queen Mary.
The Welsh Cake folk were there. So got a small supply, will need to order on line next time. There did not appear to be much in way of gluten free food, turkey leg and that is too much. Kept hydrated with lemonade and water. Had a good time listening to some music and looking at wares.
It only took me 3 hours to get home. The route I took home went directly to I 5 rather than the round about way Google maps had me to get to eastbound highway to get to Enumclaw. Something to keep in mind for next trip. The Northwest Renaissance Faire is in Bonnie Lake, not as far as Enumclaw, in a couple of weeks.
Glad I went. Had a good time. Not worth going every year. After this year, think I will alternate HLG and RF.
30 July 2018
01 July 2018
OPA: Six Month Review
Today is 1 July 2018. Six months ago I left San Jose California and moved to Sequim Washington. Things haven't gone as planned, but have worked out very well.
The people in the Church Ward here are better for me than in SJ.
There are Twilight friends a couple of hours away in Forks. I can work as a docent at the Twilight Collection in Forks. There are two active Twilight groups based in area - Washington State Twilighters and Pacific Northwest Twilighters. I've been able to attend a couple of events with WST. The two groups are planning a combined big trip in 2020. Please note, Twilight brings us together, but we stay together for lots of other reasons. We talk about wide variety of things, actually very little about Twilight.
The weather has been acceptable. Clothes that I have kept me warm during snow storms in February. Still have my first summer to get through here.
My plan was initially to live in The Vintage apartments. Turns out my investments and Social Security brings in too much to qualify to live there. Found that out the first day the packers came in San Jose. I extended my reservation at the EconoLodge while I looked for other options. One of the desk clerks' father had an available rental. Rent lots more than planned to plan at The Vintage which has kept me at home and not spending money. Was blessed to fall into a place at all. Very few rentals available. Also found large rental space to have all my household goods moved up here, saved lots of money over keeping at the moving company's place in California.
Went out with realtor, mostly looking at manufactured homes already in place. All too big. I was downsizing to two bedrooms in The Vintage. Found a park with some empty lots, found a model I liked. Ordered new home the end of March.
I went to Skyline plant in McMinniville Oregon for a plant tour and my home was ready for transport. That was two weeks ago and it is still there. Hopefully this week. It will then need to be put together and garage built.
Enjoyed the Irrigation Festival in May. Looking forward to the Lavender Festival later this month. There was a home expo that I should have paid more attention to things there, but didn't know moving into my own new home.
That is the short version of my first six months in Washington.
The people in the Church Ward here are better for me than in SJ.
There are Twilight friends a couple of hours away in Forks. I can work as a docent at the Twilight Collection in Forks. There are two active Twilight groups based in area - Washington State Twilighters and Pacific Northwest Twilighters. I've been able to attend a couple of events with WST. The two groups are planning a combined big trip in 2020. Please note, Twilight brings us together, but we stay together for lots of other reasons. We talk about wide variety of things, actually very little about Twilight.
The weather has been acceptable. Clothes that I have kept me warm during snow storms in February. Still have my first summer to get through here.
My plan was initially to live in The Vintage apartments. Turns out my investments and Social Security brings in too much to qualify to live there. Found that out the first day the packers came in San Jose. I extended my reservation at the EconoLodge while I looked for other options. One of the desk clerks' father had an available rental. Rent lots more than planned to plan at The Vintage which has kept me at home and not spending money. Was blessed to fall into a place at all. Very few rentals available. Also found large rental space to have all my household goods moved up here, saved lots of money over keeping at the moving company's place in California.
Went out with realtor, mostly looking at manufactured homes already in place. All too big. I was downsizing to two bedrooms in The Vintage. Found a park with some empty lots, found a model I liked. Ordered new home the end of March.
I went to Skyline plant in McMinniville Oregon for a plant tour and my home was ready for transport. That was two weeks ago and it is still there. Hopefully this week. It will then need to be put together and garage built.
Enjoyed the Irrigation Festival in May. Looking forward to the Lavender Festival later this month. There was a home expo that I should have paid more attention to things there, but didn't know moving into my own new home.
That is the short version of my first six months in Washington.
OPA: Irrigation Festival Part 2, 11 & 12 May 2018
not sure why this was not posted when written. better late than never.
The Carnival part of the festival opened on Thursday evening. Most events were on Friday and Saturday. Went to the logging and truck show both days. There were some vendors there, including a few doing wood carvings with chain saws on big pieces of logs. It was interesting to watch. There are lots of different sizes of chain saws. There was one lady working on carving details on a turtle.
The Welding Club at Peninsula College was also there and selling items. Saw some flatware repurposed into dragonflys. Thought one would go well with my watch dragon. On Saturday I went back and they had some airplanes out of knives and got one of those too. Most amazing was an X-Wing being chased by Tie fighters. Tempted, but really want a Millennium Falcon to go with my Enterprise.
The belt vendor I saw the previous weekend was there as well and got a butterfly belt with Welsh dragon belt buckle. There were some show items - tshirt, hoodies - in bright orange. Price seemed high and didn't get any. Bought a roasted corn on cob both days. Mouth a little sore from Friday's being too hot. Worth it. Saturday I let it cool longer.
There was a big crowd around the arena making watching the logging events difficult. From what I saw I prefer Scottish Highland games heavy athletics. The truck pull was in different area. Never watched that before. There is a set length they pull a weighted sled. The time and speed is measured. Lots of black smoke.
There were displays of big equipment trucks and two kid size ones for the kids to try out.
On Saturday there were two parades. The first was of hot rods. Nice looking vehicles for the most part. The second was the grand parade of floats and marching units. There are a lot of local festivals and they all have a queen and courts and that float travels around to all of them throughout the summer. Could be a very busy time.
The Carnival part of the festival opened on Thursday evening. Most events were on Friday and Saturday. Went to the logging and truck show both days. There were some vendors there, including a few doing wood carvings with chain saws on big pieces of logs. It was interesting to watch. There are lots of different sizes of chain saws. There was one lady working on carving details on a turtle.
The Welding Club at Peninsula College was also there and selling items. Saw some flatware repurposed into dragonflys. Thought one would go well with my watch dragon. On Saturday I went back and they had some airplanes out of knives and got one of those too. Most amazing was an X-Wing being chased by Tie fighters. Tempted, but really want a Millennium Falcon to go with my Enterprise.
The belt vendor I saw the previous weekend was there as well and got a butterfly belt with Welsh dragon belt buckle. There were some show items - tshirt, hoodies - in bright orange. Price seemed high and didn't get any. Bought a roasted corn on cob both days. Mouth a little sore from Friday's being too hot. Worth it. Saturday I let it cool longer.
There was a big crowd around the arena making watching the logging events difficult. From what I saw I prefer Scottish Highland games heavy athletics. The truck pull was in different area. Never watched that before. There is a set length they pull a weighted sled. The time and speed is measured. Lots of black smoke.
There were displays of big equipment trucks and two kid size ones for the kids to try out.
On Saturday there were two parades. The first was of hot rods. Nice looking vehicles for the most part. The second was the grand parade of floats and marching units. There are a lot of local festivals and they all have a queen and courts and that float travels around to all of them throughout the summer. Could be a very busy time.
05 May 2018
OPA: Sequim Irrigation Festival part 1, 5 May 2018
My first street fair with my first Irrigation Festival. Missed the early events due to not sleeping last night so not up early enough. Enjoyed the vendors. Bought an adjustable green hat from Fresh Hats to wear over beanie or ear band or without if not cold out. Saw a beautiful blue/green metal dragon. Very reasonable priced. Walked away to look at other vendors and decide if want. Went back for it on way back to car. Saw a nice belt buckle of Welsh dragon and some belts with butterflies or dragonflies. Bought some wool dryer balls and a book from local author - Sophia and the Dragon by JMM Adams. Part of a series give it a try due to love of dragons and then see about the others.
There were community info booths on Washington St between Sequim and 2nd Ave. Fire department, FIRST robotics, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Library. There were a couple of do-it-yourself art projects. A couple of games, including cupcake walk with the royal court.
The weather was clear and sunny. Almost too warm with long sleeve top on.
Finished up with a stop at the Pioneer Park with driftwood art display. Took several pictures outside before going in. Most of the artists have a nice sense of humor with the names of the art piece. It is amazing what artists are able to see in a piece of wood and bring it out with some careful sanding and polishing.
A good day. Enjoyable time. One vendor said the Lavender festival in July is bigger. Looking forward to it.
There were community info booths on Washington St between Sequim and 2nd Ave. Fire department, FIRST robotics, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Library. There were a couple of do-it-yourself art projects. A couple of games, including cupcake walk with the royal court.
The weather was clear and sunny. Almost too warm with long sleeve top on.
Finished up with a stop at the Pioneer Park with driftwood art display. Took several pictures outside before going in. Most of the artists have a nice sense of humor with the names of the art piece. It is amazing what artists are able to see in a piece of wood and bring it out with some careful sanding and polishing.
A good day. Enjoyable time. One vendor said the Lavender festival in July is bigger. Looking forward to it.
04 May 2018
OPA: Fort Worden and Lady Washington 3 May 2018
I found out too late to see the Lady Washington in Monterey last year. Saw notice for it being in Port Townsend this week. Weather clear and sunny. Deck tours from 1600hrs to 1700hrs. Decided to explore Fort Worden first.
Found the VIC as coming into Port Townsend. Got some walking info for PT and FW. Construction going on along waterfront street, so worked out well coming from FW.
Found the gift shop and neat stuff also bought a state park Discover pass. It was strange being back on a base, even if now a state park. They have left the buildings and using them for classes, resort rooms, offices. It felt like being on a base. The officer home row reminds me of home that a friend lived in at Tacoma base around 1964. And a little of the fourplexes that we lived in at Denver.
How to express the gratitude that I feel that the memory of those who served is being honored so well. They are making good use of the base and buildings. I kept coming near to tears. Will have to visit the other Forts that are now state parks.
Drove to the coast guard lighthouse and walked around there. Lots of pictures. Could see the mountains on the mainland, pictures not so good. Very windy. Ears were not covered and got cold.
After walking around the lighthouse area, drove to the waterfront area. Found parking lot. Found another store with cool stuff. Then found the Lady Washington and only wait about 5 minutes for deck tour.
It is smaller than thought it would be. Still super neat to see and board. Lots of ropes! Amazing that crew keeps straight which rope goes to what. Nice chat with a couple of the crew. Well worth the trip over.
Got pictures uploaded to SmugMug account: https://pamrice.smugmug.com/Ft-Worden-Lady-Washington-3-May-18/
Found the VIC as coming into Port Townsend. Got some walking info for PT and FW. Construction going on along waterfront street, so worked out well coming from FW.
Found the gift shop and neat stuff also bought a state park Discover pass. It was strange being back on a base, even if now a state park. They have left the buildings and using them for classes, resort rooms, offices. It felt like being on a base. The officer home row reminds me of home that a friend lived in at Tacoma base around 1964. And a little of the fourplexes that we lived in at Denver.
How to express the gratitude that I feel that the memory of those who served is being honored so well. They are making good use of the base and buildings. I kept coming near to tears. Will have to visit the other Forts that are now state parks.
Drove to the coast guard lighthouse and walked around there. Lots of pictures. Could see the mountains on the mainland, pictures not so good. Very windy. Ears were not covered and got cold.
After walking around the lighthouse area, drove to the waterfront area. Found parking lot. Found another store with cool stuff. Then found the Lady Washington and only wait about 5 minutes for deck tour.
It is smaller than thought it would be. Still super neat to see and board. Lots of ropes! Amazing that crew keeps straight which rope goes to what. Nice chat with a couple of the crew. Well worth the trip over.
Got pictures uploaded to SmugMug account: https://pamrice.smugmug.com/Ft-Worden-Lady-Washington-3-May-18/
22 April 2018
WJ 15 to 22 April 2017 recovery
WJ=weekly journal since no OPA happening right now
Sunday in bed, positive voice getting louder and stronger against the negative.
Monday: black overwhelming cloud lifted enough to get taxes done. Couldn't find HUD paperwork from condo sale, so guessed at cost to sell figure. Found info from when bought it. Thought I had kept it in one of portable file totes, even if legal size. Can't find things. So unorganized. Sold condo for more than the $250K exemption, so owe lots. Bought it for less than remembered. SCCCU checking had enough to cover both fed and state taxes owed. Apparently moving expenses are only deduction if work related. Big bummer. Got mail, strange stuff from Kaiser. Think I have a WAVE bill somewhere not yet paid.
Tuesday: 1130hrs and three loads of laundry done, two sets of sheets and socks with second one and load of delicates hanging to dry from door things as I need to take a shower and could not do that with them hanging in middle of bathroom. Did some exercises, had breakfast, and read while doing the laundry. Ants have found one of the traps. Hope take back to nest and they all die. or at least stay outside. Surprised have skin left. Didn't sleep so well, up about 4, made master 'to do' list. Partial check off taxes, checked off a couple of other simple easy ones. Think I just use that pad to tack the projects. Finger stick left finger tip black/blue and kinda hurts. Thinking time to see if nap for a couple of hours. Should shower, wash hair and then go to Coop, they pay sales tax today. Did a fourth load, towels, after my shower. Then laid down with heating pad on back while washer and drier did their thing. Found some cards and new craft thing to try at The Co-Op.
Wednesday: mostly in or on bed trying to sleep. did load of cold wash, hang dry outer clothes. did the butterfly sticker stained glass. pretty. short leisure walk after dinner.
Thursday: some grocery shopping, pick up mail. Incomplete duplicate title request notice from California.
Friday: Spring Fling craft fair at Senior Center. Got a little Scentcy Travel trailer melter and pillow with lighthouse and sailboat on it. One vendor had paint yourself TShirts - one was Space Cadet, ordered one. There was a LaLaRue vendor there. Didn't see any I liked. Then went to Clamllam county fairgrounds for Vintage and Craft item fair. Got some lemongrass scent to melt, keep the ants away. Got some chocolate. Got two butterfly hot pads. Saw an inlay wood box, Pan playing flute design. Tempted to stop by tomorrow and see if still there. Also saw some pyrex nested mixing bowls, like mom had. Home for news and dinner. Tracy asked if I was ok, upset with her. Told her not upset, just not chatty enough. Started to be able to list things I have done in positive manner. Mostly done morning exercises, mostly walk every day. Fixed couple of meals that weren't totally bought processed frozen meal. Progress out of the overwhelm black pit.
Saturday: up and gathered stuff to take to Forks including change of clothes if get too wet on river float. Took shower and dressed in warm walking clothes for river float. see OPA post for more.
Sunday: actually slept last night! didn't get up to use bathroom. woke up and went right back to sleep. Amazing. Made it to church, a little late, but there. Took a nap once home. When woke up went for a walk. Wrote some emails, watched my mysteries. A good day.
Sunday in bed, positive voice getting louder and stronger against the negative.
Monday: black overwhelming cloud lifted enough to get taxes done. Couldn't find HUD paperwork from condo sale, so guessed at cost to sell figure. Found info from when bought it. Thought I had kept it in one of portable file totes, even if legal size. Can't find things. So unorganized. Sold condo for more than the $250K exemption, so owe lots. Bought it for less than remembered. SCCCU checking had enough to cover both fed and state taxes owed. Apparently moving expenses are only deduction if work related. Big bummer. Got mail, strange stuff from Kaiser. Think I have a WAVE bill somewhere not yet paid.
Tuesday: 1130hrs and three loads of laundry done, two sets of sheets and socks with second one and load of delicates hanging to dry from door things as I need to take a shower and could not do that with them hanging in middle of bathroom. Did some exercises, had breakfast, and read while doing the laundry. Ants have found one of the traps. Hope take back to nest and they all die. or at least stay outside. Surprised have skin left. Didn't sleep so well, up about 4, made master 'to do' list. Partial check off taxes, checked off a couple of other simple easy ones. Think I just use that pad to tack the projects. Finger stick left finger tip black/blue and kinda hurts. Thinking time to see if nap for a couple of hours. Should shower, wash hair and then go to Coop, they pay sales tax today. Did a fourth load, towels, after my shower. Then laid down with heating pad on back while washer and drier did their thing. Found some cards and new craft thing to try at The Co-Op.
Wednesday: mostly in or on bed trying to sleep. did load of cold wash, hang dry outer clothes. did the butterfly sticker stained glass. pretty. short leisure walk after dinner.
Thursday: some grocery shopping, pick up mail. Incomplete duplicate title request notice from California.
Friday: Spring Fling craft fair at Senior Center. Got a little Scentcy Travel trailer melter and pillow with lighthouse and sailboat on it. One vendor had paint yourself TShirts - one was Space Cadet, ordered one. There was a LaLaRue vendor there. Didn't see any I liked. Then went to Clamllam county fairgrounds for Vintage and Craft item fair. Got some lemongrass scent to melt, keep the ants away. Got some chocolate. Got two butterfly hot pads. Saw an inlay wood box, Pan playing flute design. Tempted to stop by tomorrow and see if still there. Also saw some pyrex nested mixing bowls, like mom had. Home for news and dinner. Tracy asked if I was ok, upset with her. Told her not upset, just not chatty enough. Started to be able to list things I have done in positive manner. Mostly done morning exercises, mostly walk every day. Fixed couple of meals that weren't totally bought processed frozen meal. Progress out of the overwhelm black pit.
Saturday: up and gathered stuff to take to Forks including change of clothes if get too wet on river float. Took shower and dressed in warm walking clothes for river float. see OPA post for more.
Sunday: actually slept last night! didn't get up to use bathroom. woke up and went right back to sleep. Amazing. Made it to church, a little late, but there. Took a nap once home. When woke up went for a walk. Wrote some emails, watched my mysteries. A good day.
OPA 21 April 2018 Forks Rain Fest
Forks Rain Fest was 20 to 22 April. I went on Saturday only. Arrived about 1100hrs at the River Float tent. Rain off/on once past the Sul Duc hot springs turn off. Shortly after parking in Thriftway lot the rain became small hail stones. Didn't last long. The next shuttle was at 1130hrs and they were looking for a single person to complete the boats. Wonderful. Shuttle took five of us to the Sul Duc landing off of the Quileute airport road. Two guides waiting for us, two in one boat and three in the other. I went with a couple from Sequim. Wonderful almost two hour float trip to landing close to Three Rivers resort. Peaceful, quiet except for our conversations and guide talking about fishing and scenery. Sky cleared up and no more rain. Still partly cloudy. There were some rapids. Glad I had on rain pants to stay dry. Only took my driver's license and water proof camera. River a little faster than planned, so rather than wait 30 minutes for shuttle, one of guides drove us back to Thrifway. Decided to skip the free root beer float.
Visited the VIC where Sherri was working today. Picked up the old map of Twilight Forks and Twilight Tours with signed bookplate. Then to quilt show. Amazing work. Hands on art craft stuff for kids mostly at the RAC, plus a few hand craft to buy. Some small hand painted stary scapes that I wasn't interested in enough to pay the asking price. Then step into the Collection. Met Gay and Mindy. Chatted a little before close at 1600hrs. Off to Blakelees for dinner with Sherri and Gay joined us. They had gluten free bread so got a hamburger. It was good. Great time, good food and conversation. Then home. Kept to speed limit.
Visited the VIC where Sherri was working today. Picked up the old map of Twilight Forks and Twilight Tours with signed bookplate. Then to quilt show. Amazing work. Hands on art craft stuff for kids mostly at the RAC, plus a few hand craft to buy. Some small hand painted stary scapes that I wasn't interested in enough to pay the asking price. Then step into the Collection. Met Gay and Mindy. Chatted a little before close at 1600hrs. Off to Blakelees for dinner with Sherri and Gay joined us. They had gluten free bread so got a hamburger. It was good. Great time, good food and conversation. Then home. Kept to speed limit.
14 April 2018
WJ 9 to 14 April 2018 baggage
Things happened.
Things didn't happen.
Toppled into black pit of overwhelmness.
Too much to do, too slow, too little energy, too tired of doing it all alone, too little gets done, too little sleep, too much time in bed hiding nearly unable to move.
Unmet expectations.
Negative internal voices too loud.
Can't shut them up.
Anxiety paralysis.
Depression withdrawal.
Question why/how do this move thing.
Should have just stayed where was.
Question how care for whole home, inside & out, all alone.
Reminded of all my faults and failings, all things left undone.
Trying to make needed changes and not happening.
All can do is walk and read.
Things didn't happen.
Toppled into black pit of overwhelmness.
Too much to do, too slow, too little energy, too tired of doing it all alone, too little gets done, too little sleep, too much time in bed hiding nearly unable to move.
Unmet expectations.
Negative internal voices too loud.
Can't shut them up.
Anxiety paralysis.
Depression withdrawal.
Question why/how do this move thing.
Should have just stayed where was.
Question how care for whole home, inside & out, all alone.
Reminded of all my faults and failings, all things left undone.
Trying to make needed changes and not happening.
All can do is walk and read.
08 April 2018
OPA 2 to 8 April 2018 shopping finds
I walked every day but Monday for about 30 minutes. Nice to get back into that habit. Need a hat with a brim that fits over beanie or at least my ear warmer band. Sunny does not mean warm and my ears do get chilled. Legs feeling the exercise. Have not yet walked it, but did measure the loop around park - 0.4mile. Going to have to measure up/down the main street to see about a one mile track to walk.
Went shopping, started off window shopping only to get ideas for new home. Found a jigsaw puzzle that is world map. I can have fun putting it together and then use it to show where I've lived and visited. Puzzle found at The Co-op. They also had on sale large magnify glasses. Got one to help put the puzzle together and other uses.
Saturday was spring cleaning side walk sale in downtown Sequim. That was my walk. Found a metal biplane to hang from ceiling along with my space shuttle for the Traveler's room at a reuse store. Checked out the local crystal / bead store. Nothing of interest there. Found world map earrings and a box of note paper at Forage. The Bag Lady store uses old wool jackets to make slippers. Need to ask if she'd be interested in the old wool jackets and suits I have. Maybe a trade of boxes of old wool clothes for store credit worth one or two pairs of slippers. Checked out the consignment store. Need to wait until closer to moving. Saw a big stuffed multicolored dragon in children's store, tempting.
Looked in Office Depot for cork board and foam board. None exact size for puzzle map. Thinking mount puzzle on cork and then cork onto foam board. Then figure out framing. Must remember to leave space for color code explanation. White will be for places still want to see. Other colors will depend on what is available - seen box of pins that are white, black and red and another box that had green and another color.
Have a great week.
Went shopping, started off window shopping only to get ideas for new home. Found a jigsaw puzzle that is world map. I can have fun putting it together and then use it to show where I've lived and visited. Puzzle found at The Co-op. They also had on sale large magnify glasses. Got one to help put the puzzle together and other uses.
Saturday was spring cleaning side walk sale in downtown Sequim. That was my walk. Found a metal biplane to hang from ceiling along with my space shuttle for the Traveler's room at a reuse store. Checked out the local crystal / bead store. Nothing of interest there. Found world map earrings and a box of note paper at Forage. The Bag Lady store uses old wool jackets to make slippers. Need to ask if she'd be interested in the old wool jackets and suits I have. Maybe a trade of boxes of old wool clothes for store credit worth one or two pairs of slippers. Checked out the consignment store. Need to wait until closer to moving. Saw a big stuffed multicolored dragon in children's store, tempting.
Looked in Office Depot for cork board and foam board. None exact size for puzzle map. Thinking mount puzzle on cork and then cork onto foam board. Then figure out framing. Must remember to leave space for color code explanation. White will be for places still want to see. Other colors will depend on what is available - seen box of pins that are white, black and red and another box that had green and another color.
Have a great week.
RS Spotlight
The Dungeness Ward Relief Society puts out a newsletter each week. Included is a spot light on a sister. I was asked to submit info and picture for this week. The info was lighted edited. Here is what I submitted:
I really don't like the spotlight, but here goes. I was born in Ft Lewis, Wa about 68.5 years ago. My father was a pilot for USAF. We moved a lot. Lived in Philippine Islands, Germany, and lots of places in the USA. I graduated high school, community college, and senior university in Florida with BS in Chemisty. I ended up joining the USAF, served for seven (7) years. I spent a year remote assignment in Turkey. Enlisted in Oakland Ca, got out in Sunnyvale, Ca. Went to University of Arizona and earned a BS in Pharmacy. Returned to California to practice pharmacy mostly in retail pharmacy settings for almost 30 years. Six years ago was my last day working as a pharmacist. Five years ago I officially retired as a pharmacist. I read Twilight after hearing some sisters talking about it at a RS evening meeting in January 2010. I threw caution to the wind and came to Stephenie Meyer Days in Forks in 2013. Fell in love with the area and decided I'd move here when it got to that point. A year ago, it got to that point. September 2017 I came up a week early for Forever Twilight in Forks to decided exactly where. Sequim felt the best of the choices.
My parents and brother are all dead. I have two nephews and two nieces, none of them close. I joined the LDS church in New Jersey shortly before being reassigned to Turkey for my year remote. My church activity has not been a smooth road.
My hobbies are usually done in spurts - reading and photography being the main ones now. I like to walk/hike and enjoy street fairs. I regularly attend and sometimes work at science fiction conventions, Scottish Highland Games, Renaissance Festivals, and Forever Twilight in Forks. If interested I have a blog: Abby Weyr Poems and Writings, awpaw.blogspot.com. I also have a SmugMug account under Pam Rice, pamrice.smugmug.com.
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Thank you Estella Navas-Algarin for the picture that was used.
I would add there are two books that very literally changed my life: the Book of Mormon and Twilight. Both are mentioned above. And the anniversaries of last day as pharmacist and official retirement are both in April.
It is a possible interesting note that I enlisted and got out of USAF in California. I was born in Washington and moved here recently and will likely die here. Tacoma and Sequim are not as close together as Oakland and Sunnyvale, but it did strike me as a interesting when writing this up. Full circles of life.
My reading is mostly science fiction, mysteries, some romance, some historical fiction, and lots of Twilight fan fiction. I also enjoy music - Celtic, Classical, Show sound tracks, light jazz, music from 50's and 60's.
I really don't like the spotlight, but here goes. I was born in Ft Lewis, Wa about 68.5 years ago. My father was a pilot for USAF. We moved a lot. Lived in Philippine Islands, Germany, and lots of places in the USA. I graduated high school, community college, and senior university in Florida with BS in Chemisty. I ended up joining the USAF, served for seven (7) years. I spent a year remote assignment in Turkey. Enlisted in Oakland Ca, got out in Sunnyvale, Ca. Went to University of Arizona and earned a BS in Pharmacy. Returned to California to practice pharmacy mostly in retail pharmacy settings for almost 30 years. Six years ago was my last day working as a pharmacist. Five years ago I officially retired as a pharmacist. I read Twilight after hearing some sisters talking about it at a RS evening meeting in January 2010. I threw caution to the wind and came to Stephenie Meyer Days in Forks in 2013. Fell in love with the area and decided I'd move here when it got to that point. A year ago, it got to that point. September 2017 I came up a week early for Forever Twilight in Forks to decided exactly where. Sequim felt the best of the choices.
My parents and brother are all dead. I have two nephews and two nieces, none of them close. I joined the LDS church in New Jersey shortly before being reassigned to Turkey for my year remote. My church activity has not been a smooth road.
My hobbies are usually done in spurts - reading and photography being the main ones now. I like to walk/hike and enjoy street fairs. I regularly attend and sometimes work at science fiction conventions, Scottish Highland Games, Renaissance Festivals, and Forever Twilight in Forks. If interested I have a blog: Abby Weyr Poems and Writings, awpaw.blogspot.com. I also have a SmugMug account under Pam Rice, pamrice.smugmug.com.
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Thank you Estella Navas-Algarin for the picture that was used.
I would add there are two books that very literally changed my life: the Book of Mormon and Twilight. Both are mentioned above. And the anniversaries of last day as pharmacist and official retirement are both in April.
It is a possible interesting note that I enlisted and got out of USAF in California. I was born in Washington and moved here recently and will likely die here. Tacoma and Sequim are not as close together as Oakland and Sunnyvale, but it did strike me as a interesting when writing this up. Full circles of life.
My reading is mostly science fiction, mysteries, some romance, some historical fiction, and lots of Twilight fan fiction. I also enjoy music - Celtic, Classical, Show sound tracks, light jazz, music from 50's and 60's.
01 April 2018
Easter weekend and April Fool's day
Interesting weekend with General Conference, Easter, FTF announcements, and start of new month.
Church General Conference was amazing. Lots of announcement of changes. It started off with Solemn Assembly for sustaining new President of Church and successors to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles and a few other General Authorities in the Seventies Quorum. It was very spiritual sustaining them. Even sitting at home watching live stream, feel the spirit confirming their callings. Stood up when Relief Society quorum was called to sustain them.
I suggested that a friend watch from Florida. She did. It was fun texting back and forth, explaining things.
The last talk on Saturday afternoon was very moving and kept thinking that a couple of people that have suffered loss of love one.
Sunday had a rocky start as the live stream was not working from lds.org. A friend suggested mormonchannel.org. That worked. I was only an hour late. There were more announcements. The last one was Pres Nelson's last talk of the conference to announce seven (7) new Temples - significant places Philippine Islands, India, and Russia.
I can remember long ago thinking that I'll never get my religious service via TV, just no feelings come through that way. LDS Church General Conference is way different. The Holy Spirit does come through and definitely felt.
Saturday FTF announced finding the original Twilight Forks map and artist and book. Soon to be available. They are redoing the map to current places. They also teased a big announcement for Sunday. Turns out Twilight director, Catherine Hardwicke, will be a guest at FTF 2018. This was not an April Fool's joke.
Today is start of new month. Things have settled down in new life here, so decided time to get back onto healthier living. I bought a fancy new scale. Measurements are not as bad as thought they would be with my recent addiction to chocolate covered almonds. This past week I actually cooked some meals, trying to eat better. Now to add more movement. I can loose 24 pounds in 5 months. It will require work and sacrifice some food choices.
Church General Conference was amazing. Lots of announcement of changes. It started off with Solemn Assembly for sustaining new President of Church and successors to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles and a few other General Authorities in the Seventies Quorum. It was very spiritual sustaining them. Even sitting at home watching live stream, feel the spirit confirming their callings. Stood up when Relief Society quorum was called to sustain them.
I suggested that a friend watch from Florida. She did. It was fun texting back and forth, explaining things.
The last talk on Saturday afternoon was very moving and kept thinking that a couple of people that have suffered loss of love one.
Sunday had a rocky start as the live stream was not working from lds.org. A friend suggested mormonchannel.org. That worked. I was only an hour late. There were more announcements. The last one was Pres Nelson's last talk of the conference to announce seven (7) new Temples - significant places Philippine Islands, India, and Russia.
I can remember long ago thinking that I'll never get my religious service via TV, just no feelings come through that way. LDS Church General Conference is way different. The Holy Spirit does come through and definitely felt.
Saturday FTF announced finding the original Twilight Forks map and artist and book. Soon to be available. They are redoing the map to current places. They also teased a big announcement for Sunday. Turns out Twilight director, Catherine Hardwicke, will be a guest at FTF 2018. This was not an April Fool's joke.
Today is start of new month. Things have settled down in new life here, so decided time to get back onto healthier living. I bought a fancy new scale. Measurements are not as bad as thought they would be with my recent addiction to chocolate covered almonds. This past week I actually cooked some meals, trying to eat better. Now to add more movement. I can loose 24 pounds in 5 months. It will require work and sacrifice some food choices.
OPA 26 March to 1 April, sign contract
The contract for building manufactured home was signed on Tuesday. Have not yet heard from them as to possible delivery date. Recent homes have a July date. There are things happening in July that want to see possible delivery date before commit to those activities. I could still participate, but in a limited manner.
Finally figured out the problem with the wifi bridge, not compatible with Windows 7. Got a long cable to connect the photo computer. Now to transfer pictures to SmugMug. Looking forward to sharing pictures soon.
Short week on the OPA front.
Have a great week.
Finally figured out the problem with the wifi bridge, not compatible with Windows 7. Got a long cable to connect the photo computer. Now to transfer pictures to SmugMug. Looking forward to sharing pictures soon.
Short week on the OPA front.
Have a great week.
Why hating the Twilight movie was the best thing for me
It was announced today that the director of Twilight, Cahterine Hardwicke, would be a guest at Forever Twilight in Forks festival this year. On one thread someone commented that they didn't like the movie and why. I added my two cent and later mentioned if have a chance to talk with her and don't freeze up I would likely tell her so. I was called to task for wanting to do that. I responded, but that was all on my phone and I don't do long comments from my phone. So here is my full answer.
Two things to know up front. I was really deeply depressed before Twilight and I've always been more interested in the behind camera stuff of movie making.
I read Twilight January 2010, between release of New Moon and Eclipse. Twilight was available on DVD. After reading all four books, I had to try the movies. Bought Twilight. Watched it. Hated it. So many things wrong with it. So blue. Talked to a much younger friend about it. Tried a second time, still not working for me. Finally decided to try watching with the commentary track. Oh my gosh. Such a difference.
With the director on the track explaining decisions made I better understood why it was done that way. Still doesn't really work for me personally, but at least understood. There are still some things that are just wrong - truck window left down?
Also watched the extra material, again with the director making comments about why left out, why changed, etc helped understand the movie better.
Listening to that commentary track peaked my interest in the behind camera side of movie making. Remember I was depressed and not interested in much of anything. I have since watched and listened to all the DVD movies I have with a commentary track at least once. Best are with the directors.
So if given the chance I will thank Ms Hardwicke for making a movie I initially hated and for doing the commentary track on the DVD. All part of Twilight bringing me out of my depression.
Two things to know up front. I was really deeply depressed before Twilight and I've always been more interested in the behind camera stuff of movie making.
I read Twilight January 2010, between release of New Moon and Eclipse. Twilight was available on DVD. After reading all four books, I had to try the movies. Bought Twilight. Watched it. Hated it. So many things wrong with it. So blue. Talked to a much younger friend about it. Tried a second time, still not working for me. Finally decided to try watching with the commentary track. Oh my gosh. Such a difference.
With the director on the track explaining decisions made I better understood why it was done that way. Still doesn't really work for me personally, but at least understood. There are still some things that are just wrong - truck window left down?
Also watched the extra material, again with the director making comments about why left out, why changed, etc helped understand the movie better.
Listening to that commentary track peaked my interest in the behind camera side of movie making. Remember I was depressed and not interested in much of anything. I have since watched and listened to all the DVD movies I have with a commentary track at least once. Best are with the directors.
So if given the chance I will thank Ms Hardwicke for making a movie I initially hated and for doing the commentary track on the DVD. All part of Twilight bringing me out of my depression.
27 March 2018
Murder is murder
I recently shared a meme on FB about aborted babies not being able to march for their lives as the students were for theirs and gun control. Two comments were made - one claiming strawman argument and the other claiming two different issues let's not have any distractions.
Well, I am not so sure about two different issues. Gun control is about preventing mass murder. Abortion is murder and with the numbers done in USA and world it is mass murder.
I accept that there are others that do not think abortion is murder. I do not understand how or why anyone would think that it is not murder. To me there has to be some kind of disconnect not to think that abortion is murder.
People get upset about animal abuse and killing animals for sport. Those same people are for abortion which is killing human babies. How are those things not connected? How can one be ok and the other not?
People get upset about mass shootings and yet are for abortions and killing babies. How is that not the same thing? How can one be acceptable and the other not?
If you do not want to become pregnant, do not have sexual intercourse or use proven birth control method to prevent pregnancy. Anyone that is against abortion should be for easily available birth control.
Murder is murder. Be it a developing baby still in the womb or growing outside the womb for however long a life.
Well, I am not so sure about two different issues. Gun control is about preventing mass murder. Abortion is murder and with the numbers done in USA and world it is mass murder.
I accept that there are others that do not think abortion is murder. I do not understand how or why anyone would think that it is not murder. To me there has to be some kind of disconnect not to think that abortion is murder.
People get upset about animal abuse and killing animals for sport. Those same people are for abortion which is killing human babies. How are those things not connected? How can one be ok and the other not?
People get upset about mass shootings and yet are for abortions and killing babies. How is that not the same thing? How can one be acceptable and the other not?
If you do not want to become pregnant, do not have sexual intercourse or use proven birth control method to prevent pregnancy. Anyone that is against abortion should be for easily available birth control.
Murder is murder. Be it a developing baby still in the womb or growing outside the womb for however long a life.
25 March 2018
OPA 19 to 25 March 2018, Docent, driver's license
Monday: boring working on money books
Tuesday: Happy First Day of Spring! Another trip to Seattle to meet with fiduciary agents. Tried to get up early and going so had time before meeting to be tourist, didn't work. Early going doesn't seem to be in my make up lately. Good money plan. Took my time walking back to ferry. Took lots of architecture pictures. Then the ferris wheel and space needle.
Friend indicated possible visit in July. Guess need to set up a day bed for here.
Worked on the WiFi bridge on old computer, error message when try to use after turning it off. Called tech support, could not really understand the tech, put on hold and waited before hanging up. Then went to Office Depot for cable. Long cable. Need to look for photo program to use on the Dell computer. Really like the way Windows 7 organizes photos, Windows 10 not so much. Want to be able to have folders for the different cameras.
Wednesday: Moving boxes planning coming together. Stopped at local company to arrange for help on 30 March, since hadn't heard anything from ward. Let the storage comp know I'd be out of huge unit by 31 March. While there a man offered his son's help. Then Ward help came through. Then storage company called with news that the smaller unit was available now. So called the father & son helpers and arrangements made for this Saturday.
Thursday: Off to Port Angeles licensing office. Filled out on line form and have confirmation number. Office really tucked away in back of building. Walked in and no other customers. Amazing never seen a DMV office that wasn't crowded. In and out in about half hour. That was for new driver's license only. Have to go someplace else for car registration. Knew where that licensing office is in Sequim. Stopped there. Need title. Don't keep in car, don't know exactly where it is right now. Home and got info to order new one from California. In the mail later in day. Also got other mail finally into mail.
Friday: Up early and prepare to go to Forks and work as docent at the Twilight Collection. Lissy sent IM that schools were on 2 hr snow delay and suggested leaving later than original planned. I watched local news and weather last night, snow but not that low. Left an hour later than original planned. Did run into one lane delay for 15 min wait. Looking at mountains it was beautiful with fresh snow on trees. Initially didn't look like snow level got to level of Crescent Lake though. At the Storm King/Ranger/ LC Lodge turnoff there was fresh snow on ground at lake level and continued all the way to Forks. Pretty! Road was cleared. The passing lane at one point was not cleared, but didn't need both lanes. Would have liked to have stopped to take pictures, but turnouts not cleared and didn't want to get stuck and kinda late. Did stop at north Welcome sign and took a picture. Got gas and then to VIC. Bella's truck had snow and took a couple of pictures and posted to FB. Got training on being a docent. Then had to wait for time to open.
Worked with Julie Edwards. We had two groups of three come in. Otherwise we chatted. Sat down off / on to rest feet a little. Hard concrete floor walking around on. For snow and slush waterproof shoes would have been nice to wear, but they would not have been good on that floor. Turns out even with the shoes I did wear, my feet and legs were tired and sore. Save money to donate cushion mats to have in there.
Went home from there. The follow lead car portion wasn't active, just a much shorter stretch of one lane at a time via traffic light.
Saturday: Up early and very slow moving, was really sore. Met up with Brianna and went to visit teach two of our sisters. Then met up with a father son duo to move boxes. Nice and convenient that the smaller unit was four doors down. All that was left fit in and some room left over. That might be handy to put boxes currently in guest room here in the unit, so I can set up a day bed for visitors. They worked hard and all done moving boxes in less than an hour. It took me another two hours to move emptied boxes filled with packing paper to garage to slowly feed into recycle bin. All done by 4pm and before rain. Could see the curtain of rain, but didn't get to us. Got some food from Safeway deli and ate well to celebrate.
Sunday: woke up about 2am and couldn't go back to sleep. Tired but not sleepy - seems to be my nearly constant state. Didn't get to church. Lots of time in bed with heating pad on hips and drifting in/out of light sleep. Until eventually up and work on this off/on.
update not sure which night: woke up thinking I should add phone and cable outlets in both bedrooms. Might want to have cable connection for desk top computer. Eventual housemate/caretaker might want their own phone and cable line. Easier and less expensive to do now rather than later. Contacted LJM and added them. Hopefully no more middle of night wake up with ideas.
Tuesday: Happy First Day of Spring! Another trip to Seattle to meet with fiduciary agents. Tried to get up early and going so had time before meeting to be tourist, didn't work. Early going doesn't seem to be in my make up lately. Good money plan. Took my time walking back to ferry. Took lots of architecture pictures. Then the ferris wheel and space needle.
Friend indicated possible visit in July. Guess need to set up a day bed for here.
Worked on the WiFi bridge on old computer, error message when try to use after turning it off. Called tech support, could not really understand the tech, put on hold and waited before hanging up. Then went to Office Depot for cable. Long cable. Need to look for photo program to use on the Dell computer. Really like the way Windows 7 organizes photos, Windows 10 not so much. Want to be able to have folders for the different cameras.
Wednesday: Moving boxes planning coming together. Stopped at local company to arrange for help on 30 March, since hadn't heard anything from ward. Let the storage comp know I'd be out of huge unit by 31 March. While there a man offered his son's help. Then Ward help came through. Then storage company called with news that the smaller unit was available now. So called the father & son helpers and arrangements made for this Saturday.
Thursday: Off to Port Angeles licensing office. Filled out on line form and have confirmation number. Office really tucked away in back of building. Walked in and no other customers. Amazing never seen a DMV office that wasn't crowded. In and out in about half hour. That was for new driver's license only. Have to go someplace else for car registration. Knew where that licensing office is in Sequim. Stopped there. Need title. Don't keep in car, don't know exactly where it is right now. Home and got info to order new one from California. In the mail later in day. Also got other mail finally into mail.
Friday: Up early and prepare to go to Forks and work as docent at the Twilight Collection. Lissy sent IM that schools were on 2 hr snow delay and suggested leaving later than original planned. I watched local news and weather last night, snow but not that low. Left an hour later than original planned. Did run into one lane delay for 15 min wait. Looking at mountains it was beautiful with fresh snow on trees. Initially didn't look like snow level got to level of Crescent Lake though. At the Storm King/Ranger/ LC Lodge turnoff there was fresh snow on ground at lake level and continued all the way to Forks. Pretty! Road was cleared. The passing lane at one point was not cleared, but didn't need both lanes. Would have liked to have stopped to take pictures, but turnouts not cleared and didn't want to get stuck and kinda late. Did stop at north Welcome sign and took a picture. Got gas and then to VIC. Bella's truck had snow and took a couple of pictures and posted to FB. Got training on being a docent. Then had to wait for time to open.
Worked with Julie Edwards. We had two groups of three come in. Otherwise we chatted. Sat down off / on to rest feet a little. Hard concrete floor walking around on. For snow and slush waterproof shoes would have been nice to wear, but they would not have been good on that floor. Turns out even with the shoes I did wear, my feet and legs were tired and sore. Save money to donate cushion mats to have in there.
Went home from there. The follow lead car portion wasn't active, just a much shorter stretch of one lane at a time via traffic light.
Saturday: Up early and very slow moving, was really sore. Met up with Brianna and went to visit teach two of our sisters. Then met up with a father son duo to move boxes. Nice and convenient that the smaller unit was four doors down. All that was left fit in and some room left over. That might be handy to put boxes currently in guest room here in the unit, so I can set up a day bed for visitors. They worked hard and all done moving boxes in less than an hour. It took me another two hours to move emptied boxes filled with packing paper to garage to slowly feed into recycle bin. All done by 4pm and before rain. Could see the curtain of rain, but didn't get to us. Got some food from Safeway deli and ate well to celebrate.
Sunday: woke up about 2am and couldn't go back to sleep. Tired but not sleepy - seems to be my nearly constant state. Didn't get to church. Lots of time in bed with heating pad on hips and drifting in/out of light sleep. Until eventually up and work on this off/on.
update not sure which night: woke up thinking I should add phone and cable outlets in both bedrooms. Might want to have cable connection for desk top computer. Eventual housemate/caretaker might want their own phone and cable line. Easier and less expensive to do now rather than later. Contacted LJM and added them. Hopefully no more middle of night wake up with ideas.
18 March 2018
OPA 12 to 18 March Ordered home, Forks, speeding ticket, watch dragon
Continued to move boxes from storage unit to garage. Opened some and found my convection/toaster oven! also found my dirty clothes sorting station. Have moved all the boxes I can alone, the rest are too big or too heavy to do alone. Can only fit two in car at a time. Hope to get some help from men in the ward. Maybe I should ask the RS Sisters.
Monday met with Visiting Teaching companion. Brianna is a nice young lady. She doesn't really know the sisters we visit. Nice that we had time to chat before going out as companions.
Wednesday I met with the ladies of LJM Properties and ordered my new home. Lots of options, but not as many as thought. Not totally happy with kitchen. There is a microwave above the stove. Guess I'll be finding new home for my by then six month old red microwave. A little sad about that. That also means the hood fan does not vent to outside, but just circulates the air, pointless. Really like that red in kitchen. The home will likely be delivered in July - August time frame.
I did find a new home for the two month old toaster oven. Happy to have mine back. One of sisters working on decorating for Relief Society birthday brunch tomorrow, will be getting it. It was fun helping to set up Friday morning.
Thursday, I got a free recliner from my landlord. The color doesn't fit me or my eventual color scheme. It is nice to have a comfy chair to watch TV or read in. The recline is even good for using the laptop and get off my feet. Avoiding buying furniture for here with move coming in five to six months. The large trunk was a sorta exception. Trying to just get smaller things to limit what gets moved. I don't want to overwork the volunteers or if have to pay to move, then less will save money. Hopefully I will be able to start going through boxes more and toss, shred, donate, sell items.
Found a couple of other things: TwilightMoms Snuggle and flower print comforter. The Snuggle is just the right weight for cover to take a nap under. Not sure how I came to have this comforter. Could be from my mother's home, don't remember buying and not my usual taste in the past. Nice change, with flowers on white background it is lighter than my other two comforter covers.It does fit the bed better than the down comforter. Hmm...might stick with this white print to counter balance the darker wood of bedroom dressers.
Saturday I went to Forks for auction to support the HS seniors. Very mixed bag of items donated and very interesting and very big! Some beautiful wood pieces, decorative and some practical bowls. A garden wood bench with planters at end each...tempted but no way fit in my car. There was a wood wall shelves of interest and then there was a beautiful stained glass butterfly, lots of purple. Bid on a couple of the wood bowls...very quickly outbid. The butterfly didn't come up until today and I took my 'call me' tag off. Lissy was the only I knew there. We chatted. She let me know Sunday that the butterfly went for $150. Another time, another butterfly for me. I left after about 4 hours. Tired after so little sleep lately.
Got pulled over for speeding on outskirts of Port Angeles. Guess good thing didn't win anything at the auction, save money for the ticket. Second speeding ticket in 52 years of driving, first one 38 years ago. Maybe I should have stayed in Sequim and attended the RS brunch.
Stopped by for quick look through of garden show in Sequim at Boys/Girls club. Wood carver and metal worker outside. The wood guy wasn't informative when asked about doing a dragon. Metal guy had two, one was a dragon in a rock that I liked, other one was wall mounted one - not for me. Inside not a lot of interest for me right now. Since I was so late getting there, I got a band for Sunday.
Stake conference Sunday meeting. Didn't feel up to driving to stake center last night for adult session. The Sunday meeting is streamed to the meetinghouses. [keep thinking 'we are not in Kansas anymore Toto'] The stake is rather large geographically. Good meeting. Keep it simple. Build it strong. Make it work. That was theme of General Authority's talk.
Went back to garden show after meeting. The dragon in rock was gone. But he had a tall watch dragon. $30 off...sold. My new home landscaping has begun. Barely fit in car. One vendor was covered up yesterday - hand made hats. Nice. Likely get one eventually. There was a purple plaid one...just not into it today.
Catching up on laundry this evening as watch some TV shows. One new one starts tonight. Another one has second episode - disgraced magician helping FBI. Will watch one more episode of NCIS:LA tonight, then may switch to Private Eyes on at same time. Watched first couple of episodes of Private Eyes while NCIS:LA was on break for Olympics. Think I like it better.
Next Friday I will be working as docent at the Forks Twilight Collection.
Found a couple of other things: TwilightMoms Snuggle and flower print comforter. The Snuggle is just the right weight for cover to take a nap under. Not sure how I came to have this comforter. Could be from my mother's home, don't remember buying and not my usual taste in the past. Nice change, with flowers on white background it is lighter than my other two comforter covers.It does fit the bed better than the down comforter. Hmm...might stick with this white print to counter balance the darker wood of bedroom dressers.
Saturday I went to Forks for auction to support the HS seniors. Very mixed bag of items donated and very interesting and very big! Some beautiful wood pieces, decorative and some practical bowls. A garden wood bench with planters at end each...tempted but no way fit in my car. There was a wood wall shelves of interest and then there was a beautiful stained glass butterfly, lots of purple. Bid on a couple of the wood bowls...very quickly outbid. The butterfly didn't come up until today and I took my 'call me' tag off. Lissy was the only I knew there. We chatted. She let me know Sunday that the butterfly went for $150. Another time, another butterfly for me. I left after about 4 hours. Tired after so little sleep lately.
Got pulled over for speeding on outskirts of Port Angeles. Guess good thing didn't win anything at the auction, save money for the ticket. Second speeding ticket in 52 years of driving, first one 38 years ago. Maybe I should have stayed in Sequim and attended the RS brunch.
Stopped by for quick look through of garden show in Sequim at Boys/Girls club. Wood carver and metal worker outside. The wood guy wasn't informative when asked about doing a dragon. Metal guy had two, one was a dragon in a rock that I liked, other one was wall mounted one - not for me. Inside not a lot of interest for me right now. Since I was so late getting there, I got a band for Sunday.
Stake conference Sunday meeting. Didn't feel up to driving to stake center last night for adult session. The Sunday meeting is streamed to the meetinghouses. [keep thinking 'we are not in Kansas anymore Toto'] The stake is rather large geographically. Good meeting. Keep it simple. Build it strong. Make it work. That was theme of General Authority's talk.
Went back to garden show after meeting. The dragon in rock was gone. But he had a tall watch dragon. $30 off...sold. My new home landscaping has begun. Barely fit in car. One vendor was covered up yesterday - hand made hats. Nice. Likely get one eventually. There was a purple plaid one...just not into it today.
Catching up on laundry this evening as watch some TV shows. One new one starts tonight. Another one has second episode - disgraced magician helping FBI. Will watch one more episode of NCIS:LA tonight, then may switch to Private Eyes on at same time. Watched first couple of episodes of Private Eyes while NCIS:LA was on break for Olympics. Think I like it better.
Next Friday I will be working as docent at the Forks Twilight Collection.
11 March 2018
OPA 5 to 11 March 2018 New Permanent Home closer, old trunk
Monday: Shopping day. Found a winter house robe, the only winter clothing I didn't have. Some warm slippers that I'm not sure I like, little arch support so feet may rebel. Found a green pj set on sale, have lots of red and blue and now a green pair. Then the prize of the day...a Tiffany style butterfly lamp on sale. Looked at the selection of recliners in the store. Think I will get recliner and couch from the local store rather than ordering from LazyBoy. Put my money where my mouth is in supporting local businesses.
Tuesday: Started moving file boxes from storage unit to garage. Moved about 60 boxes I think. Nice bright kinda warm day, except when in shade as I was working on the north side of the unit. Think I earned sitting for my three TV shows tonight. Things going faster than previous moving from Sacramento storage unit to San Jose with such a short trip between home and storage unit here. Even faster than moving from SJ home to storage unit there to clear way to pack as I'm just moving things already packed.
Wednesday: up early. Got a call to join a meeting this afternoon to help plan the Relief Society BDay brunch on 17 March. Moved more boxes in morning, finished north side and started on the south side. And third row in the garage, finishing that row may be all the file boxes. Not sure how many of the larger boxes I can move. Need to see about elders quorum help again. Don't think I can move all of it into rental and leave room for car. A smaller unit would cost less and save money. Meeting went well. Texted VT companion and meeting on Friday just us. Get to know each other and figure out how do this new VT.
Received call that my application to Heritage Park has been approved! A new permanent home is closer! After 1700hrs when heard message. So call tomorrow to see if they need anything else at this point. Then call the construction comp and set up meeting to give deposit and start order.
Thursday: Contacted LJM Properties and have meeting set up for next Wednesday afternoon. Moved more boxes. Opened up some to see what is in and found my convection/ toaster oven! Hope can find someone who needs the one I bought.
Friday: VT companion asked to delay our meet up until Monday, after I was all dressed and place cleaned up. Now my social anxiety has until Monday to play in backroads of mind.
I've been thinking about guest room decoration. Came up with nautical theme. I have some items from parents home that are nautical. So went looking initially for table lamps and some small items with nautical items. Not new, but thrift store looking. Saw an old large trunk/chest for $50. Started thinking of expansion to not just nautical, but travels in general. Have souvenirs from my travels that I can display. The trunk could be a place for bed linens for the guest room. Needs to be cleaned up a lot, most of leather straps are gone. Checked with my home decorator advisers, Carol H and Christine J, suggested to make sure it doesn't stink inside. It kind of stayed on my mind, arranging room with it there, how to clean it up, what color to paint it, etc.
I am not usually into decorating with theme and consistency in mind. Just what I like. This guest room is different. I want it to be nicely done. This is new territory for me.
Saturday: Went to thrift store and the trunk wasn't where it was yesterday....deep breathe and went looking for it just being moved within store. And found it. Inside doesn't stink. Inside tag says built in Salt Lake City. Cool. The inside paper will need replacement. There is a ledge for a tray on top. Work on a new wood one eventually. I was able to drag the trunk to car and a gentleman helped me lift into car. At home I was able to lift it out, but not carry far due to weight and large. Again I've not been one to do a lot of DIY projects or at least not complete them. Fixing up my old military trunk and now this one has caught my fancy. Something I can work on while wait for home to be built. I went around rest of Saturday with big silly grin on face for finding this treasure. Looking forward to fixing up both trunks. New territory for me.
Back to storage unit and boxes. Finished moving all the file boxes and started on odd size boxes. Found hangers! Now to unpack more clothes and use those boxes to repack some of larger / heavier boxes.
Thinking about the wood tray in trunk - put all the places I've lived around the edge of tray.
Got tired / sleepy and headed to bed with idea of Spring forward. And then got not sleepy. Tried to fall asleep and no luck. Tried quiet relaxing music, Serenity oil, nothing got me sleepy again.
Sunday: Ward conference and couldn't stay awake seating still. Spirit willing to listen, but body not so able. There is only one priesthood holder that I really know, just happens to be member of Bishopric. I gave him a note with info on moving boxes help. Not best timing with today being Ward conference and next Saturday & Sunday is Stake Conference. Hopefully calls can be made and help will be found and arranged. Once home, nap time. Then some TV while write this up. And hung up five boxes of clothes.
Tuesday: Started moving file boxes from storage unit to garage. Moved about 60 boxes I think. Nice bright kinda warm day, except when in shade as I was working on the north side of the unit. Think I earned sitting for my three TV shows tonight. Things going faster than previous moving from Sacramento storage unit to San Jose with such a short trip between home and storage unit here. Even faster than moving from SJ home to storage unit there to clear way to pack as I'm just moving things already packed.
Wednesday: up early. Got a call to join a meeting this afternoon to help plan the Relief Society BDay brunch on 17 March. Moved more boxes in morning, finished north side and started on the south side. And third row in the garage, finishing that row may be all the file boxes. Not sure how many of the larger boxes I can move. Need to see about elders quorum help again. Don't think I can move all of it into rental and leave room for car. A smaller unit would cost less and save money. Meeting went well. Texted VT companion and meeting on Friday just us. Get to know each other and figure out how do this new VT.
Received call that my application to Heritage Park has been approved! A new permanent home is closer! After 1700hrs when heard message. So call tomorrow to see if they need anything else at this point. Then call the construction comp and set up meeting to give deposit and start order.
Thursday: Contacted LJM Properties and have meeting set up for next Wednesday afternoon. Moved more boxes. Opened up some to see what is in and found my convection/ toaster oven! Hope can find someone who needs the one I bought.
Friday: VT companion asked to delay our meet up until Monday, after I was all dressed and place cleaned up. Now my social anxiety has until Monday to play in backroads of mind.
I've been thinking about guest room decoration. Came up with nautical theme. I have some items from parents home that are nautical. So went looking initially for table lamps and some small items with nautical items. Not new, but thrift store looking. Saw an old large trunk/chest for $50. Started thinking of expansion to not just nautical, but travels in general. Have souvenirs from my travels that I can display. The trunk could be a place for bed linens for the guest room. Needs to be cleaned up a lot, most of leather straps are gone. Checked with my home decorator advisers, Carol H and Christine J, suggested to make sure it doesn't stink inside. It kind of stayed on my mind, arranging room with it there, how to clean it up, what color to paint it, etc.
I am not usually into decorating with theme and consistency in mind. Just what I like. This guest room is different. I want it to be nicely done. This is new territory for me.
Saturday: Went to thrift store and the trunk wasn't where it was yesterday....deep breathe and went looking for it just being moved within store. And found it. Inside doesn't stink. Inside tag says built in Salt Lake City. Cool. The inside paper will need replacement. There is a ledge for a tray on top. Work on a new wood one eventually. I was able to drag the trunk to car and a gentleman helped me lift into car. At home I was able to lift it out, but not carry far due to weight and large. Again I've not been one to do a lot of DIY projects or at least not complete them. Fixing up my old military trunk and now this one has caught my fancy. Something I can work on while wait for home to be built. I went around rest of Saturday with big silly grin on face for finding this treasure. Looking forward to fixing up both trunks. New territory for me.
Back to storage unit and boxes. Finished moving all the file boxes and started on odd size boxes. Found hangers! Now to unpack more clothes and use those boxes to repack some of larger / heavier boxes.
Thinking about the wood tray in trunk - put all the places I've lived around the edge of tray.
Got tired / sleepy and headed to bed with idea of Spring forward. And then got not sleepy. Tried to fall asleep and no luck. Tried quiet relaxing music, Serenity oil, nothing got me sleepy again.
Sunday: Ward conference and couldn't stay awake seating still. Spirit willing to listen, but body not so able. There is only one priesthood holder that I really know, just happens to be member of Bishopric. I gave him a note with info on moving boxes help. Not best timing with today being Ward conference and next Saturday & Sunday is Stake Conference. Hopefully calls can be made and help will be found and arranged. Once home, nap time. Then some TV while write this up. And hung up five boxes of clothes.
05 March 2018
Review of Dragon Knight's Axe by Mary Morgan, no spoilers
This is the third book in the Dragon Knight series, about the youngest brother Alastair. His power came from land so he ran to the sea after their sister's death. He became captain of a Viking trading ship.
Fiona was a research assistant helping translate ancient languages in Ireland. She is working on a stone tablet and visits the dig as part of Rory MacGregor's staff. She soon finds a sacred place and finds herself in 1206 Ireland on a slave block.
There are a couple of things that don't work well for me in this story. They kind of disturbed the suspension of disbelief for me. The story is good, just not as enjoyable and satisfying as the previous two stories. I am willing to discuss particulars with anyone after you've read the book. I have exchanged messages with Mary Morgan about my issues.
Their paths cross at the slave block where Alastair buys Fiona with plans to return her to her family. And thus begins their quest journey together.
Each brother had a part in the circumstances surrounding their sister's death. Each feels responsible and guilty and unworthy of redemption. Alastair's pain is spiritually deeper than the others. The healing is harder for everyone to endure as most of it is done separated from Fiona and family. The others had a period of separation, but circumstances are very different between Fiona and Alastair. He is eventually successful in his quest and returns.
Fiona was a research assistant helping translate ancient languages in Ireland. She is working on a stone tablet and visits the dig as part of Rory MacGregor's staff. She soon finds a sacred place and finds herself in 1206 Ireland on a slave block.
There are a couple of things that don't work well for me in this story. They kind of disturbed the suspension of disbelief for me. The story is good, just not as enjoyable and satisfying as the previous two stories. I am willing to discuss particulars with anyone after you've read the book. I have exchanged messages with Mary Morgan about my issues.
Their paths cross at the slave block where Alastair buys Fiona with plans to return her to her family. And thus begins their quest journey together.
Each brother had a part in the circumstances surrounding their sister's death. Each feels responsible and guilty and unworthy of redemption. Alastair's pain is spiritually deeper than the others. The healing is harder for everyone to endure as most of it is done separated from Fiona and family. The others had a period of separation, but circumstances are very different between Fiona and Alastair. He is eventually successful in his quest and returns.
04 March 2018
OPA 1 to 4 March 2018 side by side refrig
Nothing new, just continue the new home application work. Delay in getting new preprinted checks from local bank. Finally they arrived Saturday. Got counter checks at the bank on Thursday for MH park application and rent.
Went around Saturday and found a few little things to make a thank you gift bag for the realtor I had worked with. She showed me around and helped narrow what size home and where I wanted to live. Subject on my message to her was 'good news, bad news'. The gift bag won't make up for no commission, but better able to express my thanks.
Saturday realized that as much trouble as I had deciding which model and which lot, decision making is going to be greatly multiplied with all the decisions in setting it up. Hopefully I will like most of the standard features. Except no side by side refrigerator. The one in rental is so hard to get into and get things in/out. Whoever came up with that design had to be crazy. What do you do with a frozen pizza?
Saturday morning I started bringing over boxes from storage unit to the rental home. Hope to move most if not all into rental and save that money until permanent move. If not all at least into a smaller unit.
After exchanging messages with Mary Morgan, decided I needed to read Dragon Knight's Axe a second time, I missed something first time going through too fast perhaps. Started it Friday and finished it Saturday evening. The review is hard to write. Good story, just something not as good as others to me.
Looking forward to the continued shifting of priorities away from home search to other things. I've never been good at multi-tasking and during this home search it has been hard to think about anything else or do much of anything else. It was just so big, it took up almost all time and energy. Now with smaller things to think about and decide and work on, I can spread out time and energy.
Have a great week. Take care.
Went around Saturday and found a few little things to make a thank you gift bag for the realtor I had worked with. She showed me around and helped narrow what size home and where I wanted to live. Subject on my message to her was 'good news, bad news'. The gift bag won't make up for no commission, but better able to express my thanks.
Saturday realized that as much trouble as I had deciding which model and which lot, decision making is going to be greatly multiplied with all the decisions in setting it up. Hopefully I will like most of the standard features. Except no side by side refrigerator. The one in rental is so hard to get into and get things in/out. Whoever came up with that design had to be crazy. What do you do with a frozen pizza?
Saturday morning I started bringing over boxes from storage unit to the rental home. Hope to move most if not all into rental and save that money until permanent move. If not all at least into a smaller unit.
After exchanging messages with Mary Morgan, decided I needed to read Dragon Knight's Axe a second time, I missed something first time going through too fast perhaps. Started it Friday and finished it Saturday evening. The review is hard to write. Good story, just something not as good as others to me.
Looking forward to the continued shifting of priorities away from home search to other things. I've never been good at multi-tasking and during this home search it has been hard to think about anything else or do much of anything else. It was just so big, it took up almost all time and energy. Now with smaller things to think about and decide and work on, I can spread out time and energy.
Have a great week. Take care.
28 February 2018
OPA 26 to 28 Feb New Home decisions
I was able to meet the the builders for the MHP I am interested in on Monday morning. Spent about an hour getting questions answered. Then did some errands and let the info sit on 'back burner' so to speak. Once home looked over the floor plans again and narrowed it to three possible floor plans. Then started crunching the numbers for the various options. Pro/Cons lists made and head wouldn't let it go. Couldn't sleep. Kept adding things or changing the priorities or shifting from one list to other side. That made for only one night of little to no sleep. Tuesday things started settling down of choices and slept Tuesday.
My thanks to Christine and Jim Johnston and Matt and Carol Hutchinson. I have been 'talking' all this over with them via email and texts. They have helped in asking some questions and making comments I hadn't thought of. Still have one major decision to make, which particular lot to put the home on.
Need to apply to Heritage Park management. Hopefully new bank pre-printed checks will arrive tomorrow and submit that. Then meet with builders and start on the list of particulars to leave as standard or upgrade. Depending on how busy the manufacturer is it could take three to six (3-6) months. The manufacturer is in Oregon. May take a road trip.
Exciting times. Hopefully deciding on the specific features will be less stressful than going forward this way rather than buying one already in place and choosing the exact model.
Prayers have been said throughout this process, sometimes more casually than formal. Answer today confirms I am where I am suppose to be. Peace knowing on correct path. Thank you to all that have been sending good thoughts and prayers for me on this move.
With this decision made, my energy and efforts can shift to going through the boxes and sell items not needed or wanted or donating. And spending some fun time taking pictures. Need to work on old computer WiFi bridge.
May change to posting once a week. Take care.
25 February 2018
OPA 22 to 25 Feb 2018 new home?
Boring four days. Looked at all the manufactured home model floor plans. Eliminated four due to size, leaves six to consider. Each has plus and minus aspects. My mind doesn't translate well from flat floor plans to what look like in real life. Left a phone message with the property owners on Thursday asking for meeting. Have not yet heard back. I will send an email after posting this and hope for response.
Finished Dragon Knight's Axe. Don't like as much as the others. Too many unanswered big questions. How did a Scotsman become captain of a Viking trading ship? What happened / how explain Fiona's disappearance from modern times? The other books had some closure for those left behind in modern times. Nothing in this story. Working on a review.
The snow is mostly gone. We did get some more on Thursday and gone by time up and out. Some scattered flurries. The temps at night are really cold.
I have a visiting teacher companion and three sisters to visit. Hmm...wonder if just getting them today and need to do for this month. Maybe a little note to introduce ourselves?
Otherwise the usual groceries, laundry, clean up, etc stuff.
Finished Dragon Knight's Axe. Don't like as much as the others. Too many unanswered big questions. How did a Scotsman become captain of a Viking trading ship? What happened / how explain Fiona's disappearance from modern times? The other books had some closure for those left behind in modern times. Nothing in this story. Working on a review.
The snow is mostly gone. We did get some more on Thursday and gone by time up and out. Some scattered flurries. The temps at night are really cold.
I have a visiting teacher companion and three sisters to visit. Hmm...wonder if just getting them today and need to do for this month. Maybe a little note to introduce ourselves?
Otherwise the usual groceries, laundry, clean up, etc stuff.
21 February 2018
OPA 19 to 21 Feb 2018 Day after snow, new MH park,
Monday: The day after the snow was bright and sunny. Some snow melted. The snow was definitely crunchy when I went out walking around taking pictures. Drove to the Manufactured Home (MH) park office...still closed, or at least the open sign isn't on. Wait another day I guess. Finished the second Dragon Knight book and worked on review. Took pictures and posted to sell three old coats. Just asking $10 or $15 plus postage. More important to get out of my hands rather than making money.
Tuesday: Found the baby blanket and washed. Now to get it to Anna. Went to the MH park office and still no open sign lit, tried door anyway. And it was open. Got some general info. Feeling kinda excited. Takes about three months from time order to get it in place and then finishing set up is weather dependent. That would work with rental timeline. Now to look at models and find out prices. Kayla's package arrived a day early. Posted review of the second Dragon Knight book.
Wednesday: Finally called Medicare Supplement insurance and drug coverage. Looked through two boxes of fragile / kitchen stuff. The fragile box was of collectibles mostly, so put back in box and off to storage room. Other box had some more bowls, knife set, and Pyrex glass measuring cups. One glass canister was broken. It had Arizona tea maker inside and that was too heavy for it. No big deal. Most stuff was put into smaller boxes. Oh found a music box. Left out the two ceramic canisters that are broken to fix. Started the third book of Dragon Knight series - Axe, about Alistair. Fiona seems to be the least prepared for traveling back in time. Mary Morgan won an award for best paranormal romance for Quest of a Warrior.
Tuesday: Found the baby blanket and washed. Now to get it to Anna. Went to the MH park office and still no open sign lit, tried door anyway. And it was open. Got some general info. Feeling kinda excited. Takes about three months from time order to get it in place and then finishing set up is weather dependent. That would work with rental timeline. Now to look at models and find out prices. Kayla's package arrived a day early. Posted review of the second Dragon Knight book.
Wednesday: Finally called Medicare Supplement insurance and drug coverage. Looked through two boxes of fragile / kitchen stuff. The fragile box was of collectibles mostly, so put back in box and off to storage room. Other box had some more bowls, knife set, and Pyrex glass measuring cups. One glass canister was broken. It had Arizona tea maker inside and that was too heavy for it. No big deal. Most stuff was put into smaller boxes. Oh found a music box. Left out the two ceramic canisters that are broken to fix. Started the third book of Dragon Knight series - Axe, about Alistair. Fiona seems to be the least prepared for traveling back in time. Mary Morgan won an award for best paranormal romance for Quest of a Warrior.
20 February 2018
Review Dragon Knight's Medallion by Mary Morgan
This is the second book in the Dragon Knight series. Stephen Mackay was keeper of the medallion relic. Stephen ran away to an abbey being built after his sister was killed. The physical work helped him cope with the tragedy.
This is a time when the new one god religion was in conflict against the old pagan religion. By going to an abbey Stephen renounced all of the old pagan relationship to his life with his brothers and the relics. He is befriended by one of the brother monks, who is also a druid.
Aileen Kerrigan is part of the Society of Thistle, that studies and preserve historical herbs and plants, in present day Boston. Her father is an archaeologist, who ran to Scotland after the death of his wife. He is working on the remains of an abbey. He finds something and calls for his daughter and other members of the Society to Scotland. While there Aileen discovers her father is much more than an archaeologist.
The story starts 18 months after Margaret's death, spring equinox 1206. Rome is sending a contingent of bishops to check out the building of the abbey and the conversion of the locals from the local pagan religion. That is used as a cover for other activities by Lachlan. Yes, the evil druid is back and causing problems. Cathal is also around along with other druids.
How Stephen and Aileen cross paths and the quest journey they travel together is another great story. Aileen meets the great dragon. We meet Liam and Rory who are fae warrior brothers to Conn and don't look like Viking warriors.
I found the conversations surrounding the old and new religion conflict interesting. Brother Osgar especially is of interest being a druid and a monk.
Looking forward to reading about the next brother's quest.
Books available through the usual vendors and her web site: marymorganauthor.com
This is a time when the new one god religion was in conflict against the old pagan religion. By going to an abbey Stephen renounced all of the old pagan relationship to his life with his brothers and the relics. He is befriended by one of the brother monks, who is also a druid.
Aileen Kerrigan is part of the Society of Thistle, that studies and preserve historical herbs and plants, in present day Boston. Her father is an archaeologist, who ran to Scotland after the death of his wife. He is working on the remains of an abbey. He finds something and calls for his daughter and other members of the Society to Scotland. While there Aileen discovers her father is much more than an archaeologist.
The story starts 18 months after Margaret's death, spring equinox 1206. Rome is sending a contingent of bishops to check out the building of the abbey and the conversion of the locals from the local pagan religion. That is used as a cover for other activities by Lachlan. Yes, the evil druid is back and causing problems. Cathal is also around along with other druids.
How Stephen and Aileen cross paths and the quest journey they travel together is another great story. Aileen meets the great dragon. We meet Liam and Rory who are fae warrior brothers to Conn and don't look like Viking warriors.
I found the conversations surrounding the old and new religion conflict interesting. Brother Osgar especially is of interest being a druid and a monk.
Looking forward to reading about the next brother's quest.
Books available through the usual vendors and her web site: marymorganauthor.com
18 February 2018
OPA 15 to 18 February MH, Home Expo, Snow
Thursday: Was back to looking for new home. Discouraged somewhat. So many things to consider. Wondering if over thinking. Overly concerned about future capabilities or lack of. Checked in with a couple of friends and they agree that my long term concerns are reasonable and should plan for. Made appointment to go look at a couple with realtor on Friday. Finished the second Dragon Knight book - Medallion.
Friday: Found the size I want. The ones before were too big at 1800 sq ft. The two today were 1200 to 1350 sq feet. Felt more reasonable size that even as age I could keep up with.
Saturday: thought of couple of things about Medicare supplement insurance to double check. Looked those things up. USAA is still better deal. Did look for less expensive drug coverage and found one about half the price of the one offered by USAA through Humana. No one has Medicare Advantage plans for this area. That would be so nice to have all in one package.
Drove around a new MH park, still has vacant lots. Found the main office, closed today. Take a look on Monday. They are putting different MH on the lots to sell, just the MH or land? There were two on the window, one sold, one still available. Smaller at 950 sq ft. Need measurements and take longer look at floor plan. Definite try on Monday.
Also went to Home Building expo at the high school. Found an professional handy man. Info on heat/cool, custom home, etc. Nothing on manufactured homes. One vendor was a clinic in Port Angeles that takes casual walk ins while you wait to get a PCP. The local clinics have wait list. sigh At least my two meds have refills left, so won't need doctor for six months or more.
Sunday: I woke up late and just ran around getting ready for church. As ate breakfast dressed and ready to leave, looked at email and FB. Found message from Relief Society Secretary that church meetings were canceled due to snow....Snow? then I looked out and indeed the world was all white. It was so pretty and peaceful looking. Silent Night Holy Night came to mind.
As quickly as possible finished breakfast and changed into going out into cold and snow clothes. Took cameras out. Fun! Need to get gloves that can work on phones. Fingers were only part that got cold when trying to take pictures with the phone. All the other parts had the right layers to stay comfortable. So many layers kinda hard to move.
It has been decades since been in snow. It was neat watching it come down. While I was out it did start to get a little like ice pellets rather than fluffy flakes. Someone shoveled sidewalk and the street got plowed. Kinda surprised about that since private street. Glad have car in garage and don't have to go any where. Tomorrow will be worse with icy roads.
Fixed a pot roast and did some laundry. Wrote up review of first Dragon Knight book and posted earlier. After finish this post, start post on the second book.
Friday: Found the size I want. The ones before were too big at 1800 sq ft. The two today were 1200 to 1350 sq feet. Felt more reasonable size that even as age I could keep up with.
Saturday: thought of couple of things about Medicare supplement insurance to double check. Looked those things up. USAA is still better deal. Did look for less expensive drug coverage and found one about half the price of the one offered by USAA through Humana. No one has Medicare Advantage plans for this area. That would be so nice to have all in one package.
Drove around a new MH park, still has vacant lots. Found the main office, closed today. Take a look on Monday. They are putting different MH on the lots to sell, just the MH or land? There were two on the window, one sold, one still available. Smaller at 950 sq ft. Need measurements and take longer look at floor plan. Definite try on Monday.
Also went to Home Building expo at the high school. Found an professional handy man. Info on heat/cool, custom home, etc. Nothing on manufactured homes. One vendor was a clinic in Port Angeles that takes casual walk ins while you wait to get a PCP. The local clinics have wait list. sigh At least my two meds have refills left, so won't need doctor for six months or more.
Sunday: I woke up late and just ran around getting ready for church. As ate breakfast dressed and ready to leave, looked at email and FB. Found message from Relief Society Secretary that church meetings were canceled due to snow....Snow? then I looked out and indeed the world was all white. It was so pretty and peaceful looking. Silent Night Holy Night came to mind.
As quickly as possible finished breakfast and changed into going out into cold and snow clothes. Took cameras out. Fun! Need to get gloves that can work on phones. Fingers were only part that got cold when trying to take pictures with the phone. All the other parts had the right layers to stay comfortable. So many layers kinda hard to move.
It has been decades since been in snow. It was neat watching it come down. While I was out it did start to get a little like ice pellets rather than fluffy flakes. Someone shoveled sidewalk and the street got plowed. Kinda surprised about that since private street. Glad have car in garage and don't have to go any where. Tomorrow will be worse with icy roads.
Fixed a pot roast and did some laundry. Wrote up review of first Dragon Knight book and posted earlier. After finish this post, start post on the second book.
Review Dragon Knight's Sword by Mary Morgan
Dragon Knight's Sword is the first in the series about the Dragon Knights. The series is about four brothers and their sister. They are guardians of the last dragon and sacred relics. There was a tragic fight that killed their sister and these stories are of the brothers' journey to reclaiming their honor and their individual relic. There are druids, fae warriors, lust, romance, lack of communication, stubborn characters, and time travel. The stories are a mix of Irish and Scottish myth and legends. Each story is a stand alone for each brother, but there is reference to earlier happenings if read them out of order. So to avoid any spoilers it is best to read them in order.
The sword is Duncan Mackay's. This first story is his journey from depression after the tragedy to hope and love. Duncan is not the eldest of the brothers, but it was his sword that killed their sister. So he is the first to try to clean their honor, lift the curse, and hopefully regain the sword.
It starts in 1205AD, a year after the tragic death of their sister. Duncan has come to realize he needs to do something to clear the curse. He travels to find a wise druid to clarify what that something is and how to accomplish it. Thus starts his quest.
Brigid is co-owner of an antique shop in current day Seattle who majored in history. She receives a sword and with help of a history professor figures out what it may be. She is off to Scotland to return the sword to the Mackay clan.
This is a romance, so obviously their paths cross. How their paths cross and what happens to them is great story telling. Secrets are revealed. Mysteries are unraveled. Dreams become real. The Great Dragon is met. Both the quest and the romance have their ups and downs.
There is a good balance of informative detail to broad strokes of background. Humor is well used to relieve tension as they travel their paths. There is lust at first sight, that becomes love. I do a fast skim of the detailed sex scenes which are less detailed than other stories and not inappropriate.
Looking forward to the other stories.
UPDATE: Her books are available from usual vendors. Her web site has an ebook boxed set available to get and add an e-autograph. http://www.marymorganauthor.com/
The sword is Duncan Mackay's. This first story is his journey from depression after the tragedy to hope and love. Duncan is not the eldest of the brothers, but it was his sword that killed their sister. So he is the first to try to clean their honor, lift the curse, and hopefully regain the sword.
It starts in 1205AD, a year after the tragic death of their sister. Duncan has come to realize he needs to do something to clear the curse. He travels to find a wise druid to clarify what that something is and how to accomplish it. Thus starts his quest.
Brigid is co-owner of an antique shop in current day Seattle who majored in history. She receives a sword and with help of a history professor figures out what it may be. She is off to Scotland to return the sword to the Mackay clan.
This is a romance, so obviously their paths cross. How their paths cross and what happens to them is great story telling. Secrets are revealed. Mysteries are unraveled. Dreams become real. The Great Dragon is met. Both the quest and the romance have their ups and downs.
There is a good balance of informative detail to broad strokes of background. Humor is well used to relieve tension as they travel their paths. There is lust at first sight, that becomes love. I do a fast skim of the detailed sex scenes which are less detailed than other stories and not inappropriate.
Looking forward to the other stories.
UPDATE: Her books are available from usual vendors. Her web site has an ebook boxed set available to get and add an e-autograph. http://www.marymorganauthor.com/
14 February 2018
OPA 12 to 14 February 2018, mail R&J, Valentines' Day
Monday was a reading day while did laundry. Finished the first book in Mary Morgan's Dragon Knights series - Dragon Knight's Sword. The last third of book was tense and couldn't put it down. After feeling so bad that didn't want to read, it was nice to just read and laundry and finish both.
Tuesday: prepared Romeo and Juliet books to mail to friends. DVD boxes at post office were perfect fit. Found some Valentines' Day tissue paper. Wide red ribbon was not found :-( Did find some sorta wide white ribbon. Had stickers to put on the ribbon and white not wide enough. sigh. Did manage to make one little bow for Sandi's book. [reference to her book The Unexpected Woman] Carol H posted to FB they were moving, so texted to see if wanted her copy now or later. She replied that she'll pick up in person. So only four copies to mail out.
Wanted to write on back of certificate copies with info in red, but only had sharpie in red and showed through. Ruined one copy. Decided to ask Sherri if she wanted the extra copy.
Enjoyed my usual Tuesday shows even if repeats.
Wednesday: Up early and ready to go to Forks to mail from there. Remembered Craig and Sharon's items and brought with me. Nice drive down, some rain, mostly not. Stopped a few times along Lake Crescent and took pictures.
The boxes at the post office were too big for C&S's items and didn't bring packing stuffing. So just the four boxes. Walked to pharmacy to see if they had any night lights. Heard from Sherri and met up at Outfitters. She was thrilled with the gift. Great feeling. She gave me a necklace of Renesmee's locket. Met her granddaughter and had lunch with them.
Checked in Outfitters for accepted night light. Lady bug and a little red car were close but not close enough. Looked in Native to Twilight and Ace Hardware, no luck for night light. However did find some other things in Native to Twilight.
Left for home. Stopped at Swain's in Port Angeles. No luck there for decorative night light. Picked up some groceries at Sunny Farms before getting home. After dinner sent regular emails to the four with tracking info on package.
Best Valentines' Day in a very long time. I was as excited to mail these out as to get and open the box from the Prop Store. It feels good to share these books.
One person yesterday sent me message asking to buy a copy. They were never for sale at any price. They were always for people who did not have any other item from the movies.
Tuesday: prepared Romeo and Juliet books to mail to friends. DVD boxes at post office were perfect fit. Found some Valentines' Day tissue paper. Wide red ribbon was not found :-( Did find some sorta wide white ribbon. Had stickers to put on the ribbon and white not wide enough. sigh. Did manage to make one little bow for Sandi's book. [reference to her book The Unexpected Woman] Carol H posted to FB they were moving, so texted to see if wanted her copy now or later. She replied that she'll pick up in person. So only four copies to mail out.
Wanted to write on back of certificate copies with info in red, but only had sharpie in red and showed through. Ruined one copy. Decided to ask Sherri if she wanted the extra copy.
Enjoyed my usual Tuesday shows even if repeats.
Wednesday: Up early and ready to go to Forks to mail from there. Remembered Craig and Sharon's items and brought with me. Nice drive down, some rain, mostly not. Stopped a few times along Lake Crescent and took pictures.
The boxes at the post office were too big for C&S's items and didn't bring packing stuffing. So just the four boxes. Walked to pharmacy to see if they had any night lights. Heard from Sherri and met up at Outfitters. She was thrilled with the gift. Great feeling. She gave me a necklace of Renesmee's locket. Met her granddaughter and had lunch with them.
Checked in Outfitters for accepted night light. Lady bug and a little red car were close but not close enough. Looked in Native to Twilight and Ace Hardware, no luck for night light. However did find some other things in Native to Twilight.
Left for home. Stopped at Swain's in Port Angeles. No luck there for decorative night light. Picked up some groceries at Sunny Farms before getting home. After dinner sent regular emails to the four with tracking info on package.
Best Valentines' Day in a very long time. I was as excited to mail these out as to get and open the box from the Prop Store. It feels good to share these books.
One person yesterday sent me message asking to buy a copy. They were never for sale at any price. They were always for people who did not have any other item from the movies.
12 February 2018
OPA 8 to 11 February 2018 Prop Store auction wins
This is a day late due to not feeling so good and reading another Mary Morgan book. On to my OPA journal.
Thursday and Friday: Shortly after falling asleep I had a nightmare about the box. FedEx arrived at UPS store after hours and left the box at the door like would at a home. It was missing in the morning when the store staff came in. I woke myself up at this point. Could not go back to sleep. Read some in a Mary Morgan book, until about 0300hrs.
The Prop Store box arrived in the morning, I received text from the UPS store. I picked it up after running some errands around town. The staff at the UPS store were curious and noticed I was excited to get the box. I told them what was in it. The Prop Store tape is something of a give away as to importance of package. Some mild Twilight interest from a couple of the staff.
I had posted to the Dungeness Ward RS FB page asking if any Twilight fans, two responded but not available to help me open the box. Lissy Andros said to bring it to Forks. So that became the plan. Meet up with her and any others in Forks to open it at the Collection on Friday at 1130hrs. Way cool place to do so. I really wanted to open it with company to share the event and for someone else to take pictures. There were comments asking for a FB Live video. Ok..don't know how to do that, but maybe someone else does.
I brought it inside and placed box on rocking chair. After the nightmare the night before, I kept looking at it to make sure still there and resisting temptation to tear into it. Eventually I took it to car, make sure I didn't leave in too much of hurry Friday morning and forget it at home.
Up early Friday, ready for adventure to Forks and opening Prop Store box. Nice drive down. I was early so went to Outfitters to see if they had step stool and what else might be of interest. Found a cute red truck night light on Christmas clearance end cap. Last one. Also found a silicon strainer that you can boil or steam along with pasta or veggies and just pull out...neat idea and on clearance table. Made me late to the Collection.
Later than 1130hrs at the Collection. Lissy, Lisa Clark, Julie Edwards and daughter, and Sherri Aguayo were already there. I forgot to take TC Tigger and Eeyor in to view the opening. Lissy handled the FB Live feed, Julie had my D5100 camera.
It was so neat opening the box there under the Dazzle sign with other fans. Nice to have someone else taking pictures and the video, let me just enjoy the moment.
The red blanket was on top. It is so pretty. Not solid color, but white, pinkish, colors too. [note I can't add pictures to blog from new computer and the old one doesn't recognize wifi. hope to correct that and add pictures later.]
Then the eight copies of Romeo and Juliet and one copy of Merchant of Venice with torn out note. The note was not torn out from that book however. There is also the note about J Jenks. You can feel the heavier cover on R&J with the movie cover overlaid on the original. Lissy doesn't want the MoV copy until April when they get their other items and the display case will be rearranged. The certificates were in an envelope along with a 10% off coupon. The items were in heavy duty plastic bags. There are a lot of large foam peanuts. Nothing breakable and still lots of peanuts.
And it was over. The video has 1.1K views?! Thanks to all for sharing the experience. So glad I'm here and had the company to open the box.
Stayed around talking with Sherri for couple of hours. Got some orientation for when I will be a docent there. It was a marvelous day. Went to VIC and checked in with Lissy before leaving. Drive back was a little long, had to stop in Port Angeles for a driving break.
Had a nice fancy frozen dinner. Either the dinner or all the excitement or something...my GI tract rebelled. I was up and down all night. Saturday and Sunday were very slow days. Missed church to stay close to bathroom. Didn't even want to read until late Sunday afternoon. So that is why this is a day late. I do feel fine this sunny Monday morning.
Thursday and Friday: Shortly after falling asleep I had a nightmare about the box. FedEx arrived at UPS store after hours and left the box at the door like would at a home. It was missing in the morning when the store staff came in. I woke myself up at this point. Could not go back to sleep. Read some in a Mary Morgan book, until about 0300hrs.
The Prop Store box arrived in the morning, I received text from the UPS store. I picked it up after running some errands around town. The staff at the UPS store were curious and noticed I was excited to get the box. I told them what was in it. The Prop Store tape is something of a give away as to importance of package. Some mild Twilight interest from a couple of the staff.
I had posted to the Dungeness Ward RS FB page asking if any Twilight fans, two responded but not available to help me open the box. Lissy Andros said to bring it to Forks. So that became the plan. Meet up with her and any others in Forks to open it at the Collection on Friday at 1130hrs. Way cool place to do so. I really wanted to open it with company to share the event and for someone else to take pictures. There were comments asking for a FB Live video. Ok..don't know how to do that, but maybe someone else does.
I brought it inside and placed box on rocking chair. After the nightmare the night before, I kept looking at it to make sure still there and resisting temptation to tear into it. Eventually I took it to car, make sure I didn't leave in too much of hurry Friday morning and forget it at home.
Up early Friday, ready for adventure to Forks and opening Prop Store box. Nice drive down. I was early so went to Outfitters to see if they had step stool and what else might be of interest. Found a cute red truck night light on Christmas clearance end cap. Last one. Also found a silicon strainer that you can boil or steam along with pasta or veggies and just pull out...neat idea and on clearance table. Made me late to the Collection.
Later than 1130hrs at the Collection. Lissy, Lisa Clark, Julie Edwards and daughter, and Sherri Aguayo were already there. I forgot to take TC Tigger and Eeyor in to view the opening. Lissy handled the FB Live feed, Julie had my D5100 camera.
It was so neat opening the box there under the Dazzle sign with other fans. Nice to have someone else taking pictures and the video, let me just enjoy the moment.
The red blanket was on top. It is so pretty. Not solid color, but white, pinkish, colors too. [note I can't add pictures to blog from new computer and the old one doesn't recognize wifi. hope to correct that and add pictures later.]
Then the eight copies of Romeo and Juliet and one copy of Merchant of Venice with torn out note. The note was not torn out from that book however. There is also the note about J Jenks. You can feel the heavier cover on R&J with the movie cover overlaid on the original. Lissy doesn't want the MoV copy until April when they get their other items and the display case will be rearranged. The certificates were in an envelope along with a 10% off coupon. The items were in heavy duty plastic bags. There are a lot of large foam peanuts. Nothing breakable and still lots of peanuts.
And it was over. The video has 1.1K views?! Thanks to all for sharing the experience. So glad I'm here and had the company to open the box.
Stayed around talking with Sherri for couple of hours. Got some orientation for when I will be a docent there. It was a marvelous day. Went to VIC and checked in with Lissy before leaving. Drive back was a little long, had to stop in Port Angeles for a driving break.
Had a nice fancy frozen dinner. Either the dinner or all the excitement or something...my GI tract rebelled. I was up and down all night. Saturday and Sunday were very slow days. Missed church to stay close to bathroom. Didn't even want to read until late Sunday afternoon. So that is why this is a day late. I do feel fine this sunny Monday morning.
07 February 2018
OPA 5 to 7 February 2018 TV, Prop Store items, health insurance, MH
Monday: spent most of day looking over the MediCare supplement insurance info I got at the Senior Assistance Center. Different plans, different companies, different prices. Looked at a couple of web sites...why the different prices? seems they all say the cover the same thing. Costing me $135 more a month here than with Kaiser NoCal. Then add in extra for drug, dental and vision. Still debating between two plans, the difference being cover excess charges or not, price difference is $82.
Turns out you have to have drug coverage even if you don't have any drugs. With my two meds, it would likely cost me less if paid cash for generic than it will the copay and premium.
On fun note: I called Prop Store on Friday to ask about Twilight auction win. Make sure charges were going through ok, since can't get info on line from credit union and Prop Store wasn't recognizing me either. It was all good and due for last payment in March. Oh. :-( March? So I asked to go ahead and process for the balance and ship it. Monday got email that it was processed and on its way when carrier pick up sometime that day.
On Sunday made arrangements with missionaries to come help me move some bigger/heavier boxes to look for TV. Found it and got it out of cubby hole it was in before they arrived. Pull out some other boxes labeled fragile. Only missing convection oven and scale. Didn't see either one in unlabeled boxes I opened up. Decided to just buy a simple toaster over and skip scale for now.
So got the TV hooked up to cable and watched Frankie Drake mystery. Good show. And so nice to have TV here now, especially before Tuesday and my usual three hour line up.
Tuesday: In morning I thought I'd try putting Kindle PC version on the new Dell computer. It works. Read a story from Sandi Layne I downloaded a couple of years ago and couldn't get it to work on the Lenova. Now to download the Dragon Knight series from Mary Morgan. And see what free ones are available.
In the afternoon talked with a loan officer at Evergreen Home Loans. Even if on foundation, no wheels involved, manufactured homes are not real estate, no mortgage, have to get a consumer loan ==> higher interest rates. Only if own the property and putting the MH on a foundation is it considered real estate and get a mortgage. If in a park and paying space rental, not real estate, consumer loan. According to her only one local bank does that kind of loan. Guess I didn't ask the question to the banks earlier the correct way. Getting confused with what words mean here versus what meant in California. In California, condo owners do not own the property. But considered real estate and able to get mortgage. I admit to getting a little discouraged. Want to get settled. Glad I had the three shows to get involved with as a distraction.
My usual three shows were good. Sat in rocking chair all nicely wrapped up and warm. Got up nearly every commercial to move around to keep from being sore. Tried heating up some coconut milk for hot cocoa...not so good.
Wednesday: Went looking around at another over 55 community. Close to the water, far from town. Someone is likely going to eventually make lots of money providing a shuttle service for elderly to that community. As a single woman with no children, best if stay closer to town. Easier to get around when older and can't drive. Not going to happen soon, but eventually and don't want to move again, until time for assisted living or hospice. Not being pessimistic, just thinking and planning ahead. Make things as easy as possible for anyone that does take care of me when elderly and needing help more than do now.
Checked FedEx tracking on Prop Store shipment...due tomorrow. Hopefully get to UPS store in time for me to pick up tomorrow. Wish there were some Twilight fans close by to help me open box. Maybe put note in the RS FB? see if anyone interested in sharing.
Turns out you have to have drug coverage even if you don't have any drugs. With my two meds, it would likely cost me less if paid cash for generic than it will the copay and premium.
On fun note: I called Prop Store on Friday to ask about Twilight auction win. Make sure charges were going through ok, since can't get info on line from credit union and Prop Store wasn't recognizing me either. It was all good and due for last payment in March. Oh. :-( March? So I asked to go ahead and process for the balance and ship it. Monday got email that it was processed and on its way when carrier pick up sometime that day.
On Sunday made arrangements with missionaries to come help me move some bigger/heavier boxes to look for TV. Found it and got it out of cubby hole it was in before they arrived. Pull out some other boxes labeled fragile. Only missing convection oven and scale. Didn't see either one in unlabeled boxes I opened up. Decided to just buy a simple toaster over and skip scale for now.
So got the TV hooked up to cable and watched Frankie Drake mystery. Good show. And so nice to have TV here now, especially before Tuesday and my usual three hour line up.
Tuesday: In morning I thought I'd try putting Kindle PC version on the new Dell computer. It works. Read a story from Sandi Layne I downloaded a couple of years ago and couldn't get it to work on the Lenova. Now to download the Dragon Knight series from Mary Morgan. And see what free ones are available.
In the afternoon talked with a loan officer at Evergreen Home Loans. Even if on foundation, no wheels involved, manufactured homes are not real estate, no mortgage, have to get a consumer loan ==> higher interest rates. Only if own the property and putting the MH on a foundation is it considered real estate and get a mortgage. If in a park and paying space rental, not real estate, consumer loan. According to her only one local bank does that kind of loan. Guess I didn't ask the question to the banks earlier the correct way. Getting confused with what words mean here versus what meant in California. In California, condo owners do not own the property. But considered real estate and able to get mortgage. I admit to getting a little discouraged. Want to get settled. Glad I had the three shows to get involved with as a distraction.
My usual three shows were good. Sat in rocking chair all nicely wrapped up and warm. Got up nearly every commercial to move around to keep from being sore. Tried heating up some coconut milk for hot cocoa...not so good.
Wednesday: Went looking around at another over 55 community. Close to the water, far from town. Someone is likely going to eventually make lots of money providing a shuttle service for elderly to that community. As a single woman with no children, best if stay closer to town. Easier to get around when older and can't drive. Not going to happen soon, but eventually and don't want to move again, until time for assisted living or hospice. Not being pessimistic, just thinking and planning ahead. Make things as easy as possible for anyone that does take care of me when elderly and needing help more than do now.
Checked FedEx tracking on Prop Store shipment...due tomorrow. Hopefully get to UPS store in time for me to pick up tomorrow. Wish there were some Twilight fans close by to help me open box. Maybe put note in the RS FB? see if anyone interested in sharing.
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