Quarantine and chill and kindness chatty clubhouse: Jump in and join the conversation! All is welcome!

[Snowysmom]

@Pea-n-Me Cute hamster. I am glad your DD found the right hamster for her. I love that he wanted to get out of his box. He sounds like a little character. Too bad about the washer and dryer. Prices have gotten so high. I will have to buy a fridge, washer, and dryer. I have sticker shock as it has been 18 years since I had to buy a fridge and 20 years since buying a washer and dryer.

Lynn Your bathroom remodel sounds like it is making a lot of progress. I hope you can rest a bit today.

@Judique How nice that you have a group of friends to spend time with. I understand about the night driving. I have not been a fan for many years but as I am getting older it is getting more daunting.

Jeff looked at the condo complex with me yesterday. He is in complete agreement with me and Kenny that this looks like a good place for me. He did tell me on the way to the place that he is not surprised that I could not stay in the first place I bought after Chris passed. He said he was fully expecting this and that is why he suggested an apt at first. He is very intuitive. I am glad I did what I did as it gave me clarity on what I need to do. And I would have spent alot of money on rent and storage which would be gone. With doing things the way I did, I am out some money but not as much as if I rented first. I really looked around the condo and I like all the windows, it is bright in there. Jeff laughed when I told him I actually have a window in the master bath. I like the unfinished basement as I have alot of storage space. I did write out the checks for the deposit and the upgrades. While out on the deck Jeff and I saw a beautiful blue bird on the railing looking at us and then he flew off. We walked back to the model condo and there were 2 blue birds in the tree chirping at us. I am taking that as a sign. I looked up a picture of the birds and they are Eastern Blue birds. They live near woodlands. The condo I am buying is being built now. Picking out the counters, cabinets, etc is not my cup of tea. I am not a decorating type. Jeff and I managed to pick out light gray cabinets for the kitchen and white cabinets for the bathroom. I picked out the tile for the bathroom floors, laundry room floor, and the hardwood for the hardwood floors. The master shower upgrade I wanted I am doing the same as the one in the model condo. I like it and want the same. Now I have to pick out the color I want on the walls, hardware for the cabinets, and countertop for the kitchen. My DDIL Aimee will help me. She has a good eye. Jeff took pictures of the choices we can make. I still have to pick out rugs too so she will help there. I know I want lighter rugs with maybe a couple of colors in it. Friday I am off work again so I will go out and finish my choices. It is hard to do this without Chris and I think of him constantly while I am there. I sometimes feel like he is with me and helping. I miss him so much and having to do this is bittersweet. My sons have been so good and kind.

Now I have to catch up on housework and maybe some work work. Have a good rest of the day.

 

[footballmouse]

He passed very peacefully after a few hours.

So sorry for your family. He was happy to be a part of the family and I'm sure he's glad that your daughter found another one to love (he's a cutie).

 

[lynxstch]

Nothing's going to get done today. Dave just got called out to plow. He can't figure out why. It's not snowing here, or where he lives. Maybe up in Garrett County, but it can't be enough to need to have plows sitting there waiting for snow. At least it gives both of us a day off from the bathroom.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Good Morning

So far the time change doesn't feel any different to me. It's a good reminder to slow down and take time to be stiller. I definitely would prefer we pick one time and stick with it. As I have said before, it will get light or dark when God wants it too not by aWe did get a bunch of later mail and our Amazon package yesterday

Dad is out doing morning right now. is expected on Tuesday, he's taking my suggestion to do laundry tomorrow and then stay home Tuesday. Thankfully right now all is dry.

Pea, I love all of your post except the expense part, of course. Prices on most everything continue to rise. Prayers that you and everyone else are able to get (and find, as we know supply is a whole extra issue),what you truly need. What did your DD name her new hamster friendHow he came into your family brought back the wonderful memory of how God brought Champ into my life so long ago. Champ was the only puppy among his siblings awake and absolutely ready to go home where God had blessed us with trusting him in. May your companion bring joy to all of you, too. Amen always to sharing love and telling someone you care for and love that you do without delay!

Snowysmom, too many decor (or other type) choices can indeed be too much! I truly do you are feeling even a little more at peace as you move forward to your new It really sounds so serene which is exactly what it should be!

Lynn, please take a remodel and other chore break! Allow yourself to relax so that you can

Footballmouseand prayers that a good night's rest has you feeling lighter and brighter this morning. Thinking extra of you.

Easyas, there does seem to be something in the remodeling Quacker family air! that your reno goes smoothly. Spring shopping sounds like fun and lol I am not a clothes shopping fan. One day, God willing, I need some new clothes. Treat yourself to something with your rebate money!

Wishing all of you a relaxing and cozy Sunday. I'll check back in later.

 

[tazdev3225]

Good afternoon. Partly sunny and chilly here. We had rain yesterday and there was actually a few snowflakes mixed in when I walked Chewie.

@Pea-n-Me - Sorry about the hamster, but how nice your daughter was open to a new one already. I am not always that quick to replace my pets. I had hamsters while growing up, as did Jim, but I have 2 cats now and I don't think a hamster could survive. We had them for the kids when they were younger. My son's hamster was named Lucky You Aren't Dead. He was an escape artist and we had cats. I found him in the bathtub more than once. My daughters was named Devon. He loved to be held and take rides in her Barbie car. He actually loved sitting on her head.

The meatballs were OK. I used shredded cheese because I didn't have any other kind of mozzarella. Next time I will get the block and try them that way. I'll also cook them in the crockpot over night. A friend said that was how she made hers and they were always so tasty and not dried out. I miss her, she was a sweetheart and passed away way to young.

@Snowysmom - Glad you are comfortable with the condo decision. I use my youngest as a sounding board for decorating ideas sometimes because as she says, "I have no taste!" I do, but it is a little weird at times. I am so happy I took her advice with the grays. The house feels larger with lighter colors especially because we don't get a ton of sun.

@lynxstch - Sounds like your bathroom remodel is moving at a decent pace. Glad you enjoyed your bath. I'm not a fan of baths so I don't miss having a tub. I love the walk-in shower.

Ella had her first Volleyball games and so far they are doing really well. They won 5 of the 6 games they played. This team seems so much nicer than the one she played on last year. They support each other good plays and bad. She's having fun so that's a good thing.

I went to church today and hoped that people would start to donate for the Easter Egg Hunt. I did get a little more, but it really bothers me that no one is donating this year. I have $30 right now, usually I get over $100. This may be the last year because the stress and worry aren't worth it. Crystal wanted to go put some applications in after church but we decided to do it tomorrow afternoon. I feel so bad for her as she is really trying to find a job but 4 interviews so far and nothing.

Not much else going on here today. Pork and sauerkraut are in the crockpot for dinner.

Have a nice afternoon.

 

[bobbiwoz]

@Pea-n-Me I am so happy there’s a new hamster in your life.

Gus goes for bloodwork on Wednesday. He has been himself since that one hard night.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Taz, and prayers that people do step up and donate!
for Gus dear Bobbiwoz!

 

[dazedx3]

I’m back home. The roads were fine even though our cars had a good amount to brush off this morning. Margot was her crazy self. She is a joy and such a little red headed go getter. She constantly has the look of ”trouble” in her eyes.

I had a nice time, even though I missed Kris so much, I wanted him to be able to tease and chase the kids around. I wanted him to be with us all and share the joy! I wanted to get into bed with him at night and talk about the special day. I had a meltdown after we sang “Happy Birthday” and Margot blew out her candles. I had to leave the room for a few minutes, I didn’t want to put a damper on the party My son saw me and came in the bedroom to talk and give me a hug. It’s just not supposed to be like this.. I’ve been crying on and off since I got home.

 

[Kirby]

I said prayers while he was passing that he would join all our previous pets at the Rainbow Bridge and that we’d all get to see eachother again someday

Even though your DD will miss her pet, glad that she has opened her heart to another.

did you take your avatar’s picture? Is it a type of nuthatch?

I believe it is a nuthatch. I took that picture from the deck of a cabin we were renting several years ago in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Our cabin was built on the side of a hill so the deck was way up in the trees. I loved watching the different birds.

Have I mentioned as I get older I don't like to be out alone at night? I told DD it is too anxiety inducing for me so other DD can drive her next time. I can see just fine. I know how to get places. I've just gotten less confident/more careful since I've turned 70.

I don't like to drive at night much any more either unless I know the roads I'm driving on.

I will feel more like it's a bathroom when I'm not looking at drywall everywhere.

Looking forward to seeing the finished product.

Lou Lou has been real difficult the last couple of days. I wish I knew what was going through her mind. DD is real anxious about mediation tomorrow so she could just be feeding off of her anxiety. Who knows?

 

[Snowysmom]

@dazedx3 I am glad you were with Margot for her 2nd birthday. She sounds like a sweet little girl who knows what she wants. Glad the roads were in good shape. It is hard to get through the family times. I believe that Kris was with you all watching his granddaughter's birthday. I often have to leave a gathering or even a visit to go cry for a bit. Like you, my younger son will come find me after a bit and give me a hug. I miss Chris playing cookie Monster with the kids and being Crazy Grandpa. You are right, it is not supposed to be like this.

@Kirby Thinking of your DD as she goes through mediation today. You are right, kids sense stress and sometimes feed off it.

It is around 31 here today. Kenny told me yesterday that we are expecting a big snow storm tonight into tomorrow. That goes to show how much I watch the news and weather. As of last night we were in the 6-10 inch range. I have a mammogram scheduled for tomorrow but will reschedule if the weather is like they say it will be. I am heading to the store today to stock up on salad. Kenny laughed at me when I said I needed more salad to get through the storm. I have not been eating the best lately so really need to get back into my routine. Too many carbs lately. Even though I walk 3-4 times a day I feel sluggish and a bit off. With all that is going on in my life and my family's life I am anxious and stressed to the max.

Have a good day. Off to work.

 

[footballmouse]

Happy Monday!

Dragging yesterday at work, only got about 4 hours of sleep with the time change and me not being able to fall asleep. I have been so stressed over my hours changing at work. I know it doesn't sound like a big deal but I keep trying to figure out how to make up for the money I'll be losing since I can't do the product testing no longer. That's $2400 a year I'm going to lose.

I need to stop at the store tonight and grab some milk. I bought a picture of a German Shepard with the origin of a shepard printed behind the dog image. Found it on Facebook Marketplace for $5. I'm giving it to Jacob since that is Gigi's breed.

We got some snow yesterday but by the time it hit the pavement it was just rain. Cold and rainy all week.

Didn't watch any of the Oscars, didn't see any of the movies. I'll just grab a People magazine and look at all the dresses that were worn.

That's it for me, have a great day!

 

[lynxstch]

Good morning. No more snow overnight even though they said we would get an inch or 2. Everything that came down yesterday, which wasn't much, is long gone.

I went to bed around 11, but tossed and turned till after 2. I am still tired this morning. I watched a little of Jimmy Fallon's opening remarks for the Oscars, but that was the extent of it. I may or may not FF through all of it today.

Hoping the spackling gets it's second coat today and that he remembers the right screws to finish the linen closet and it's trim. I want to start painting by tomorrow or Wednesday. If I don't keep after him, it will keep getting dragged out.

Nothing new going on around here other than that. Have a nice day

 

[PollyannaMom]

Taped the Oscars and watched them this morning. (I don't like to stay up late anyway, but even more so with trying to adjust to the time change.) I made a list of movies I want to see.

Have changed the sheets and have a class on Zoom later. May go to the grocery store to avoid having to go tomorrow.

Hugs to those having a rough time.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Happy Monday from me, too,

DazedI'm glad you got to go to Margot's party. I'm so sorry, so very sorry for the extra heartache that you experienced. You and Snowysmom both are such lovely and courageous ladies. I wish you both so much peace and comfort. One of the Scriptures I read earlier was from John 16:33. Jesus has overcome the world for you, for me, and all of us. I you feel even a in a small way His presence with you. Reminder anytime and always you are not alone. I care and so does the rest of your Quacker family!Snowysmom, always, the same extra to you as well!

bigtime, Kirby for your daughter today. I truly pray that all children get to grow up knowing always they are unconditionally loved and safe, definitely free from being a part of any courtroom dispute. Kids as you know, are often wiser than adults that's for sure. They instinctively know when something isn't right. Lou Lou, while she may be too young to understand what's going on between her parents (which i think overall is a blessing that she doesn't) she knows in her heart that all is not right. Extrawith love to you for always being a kind and caring light to her and Lil Joe, too. You make such a difference to your grandkids and to us, as well.

Get someplease, Footballmouse and take care of yourself! Extra income and budgetingI;m still so sorry your schedule seems to continue to be up in the air and changing, frsutrating indeed especially with prices these days. On a brighter note, what a sweet gift you got for Jacob May you enjoy some Mia time this week to come!

Lynn and I'm sorry you also had a restless night. Remodel progress and a ton more importantly, always, you and Don prayers!

I also am not a night person or owl, PollyannaMom. I feel best early in the morning and daytime. I hope you and anyone else who did or will watch the Oscarsenjoyed the show. I really don't watch it anymore since I haven't seen any of the movies. Dad said one of the movies he watched on either Amazon or Netflix won. I also took a little longer to fall asleep last night. The time change didn't bother me at all when I first woke up and through the day and then it caught up with me later. like I did, you ended up having a good night's sleep. Enjoy your Zoom class later.

Dad is doing followed by a stop at the post office I'm grateful to God extra that it's not raining this morning and that dad is staying home tomorrow when rain is expected once again. ETA: Oriental Trading through Wednesday is offering free shipping on any order. Code is: CE231118

Have a good Monday friends. I'll check back in later.

 

[Kirby]

Didn't watch any of the Oscars, didn't see any of the movies.

Me either, I'll have to look them up. Was happy for Brendan Frazier and Jamie Lee Curtis' wins. I like both of them.

DD's mediation took a different turn and was ended before they got started. She was so anxious this morning and arrived 40 minutes early. Her ex did not show up for the meeting nor did his attorney. The ex wanted to participate through zoom. His attorney called in and wanted to zoom while in his car. Her ex did not pay his mediation fee and refused to do so, he also asked if DD had paid her fee and was told that she had. The mediator at that point said that she was not comfortable with ex's attorney zooming via his car and called the meeting to a close. Ex had to pay the meeting cancellation fee. She told DD that if another mediation is scheduled, the ex will have to pay her fee next time. DD is waiting to hear what the next step will be after this.

Lil Joe has his first game this evening. It's in the 60's right now with a brisk wind. I hope that we get to sit with our backs to the wind tonight.

I'm thankful for all of your thoughts and prayers for DD today and for DS as he travels his cancer journey.

 

[lynxstch]

@Kirby I feel bad for your daughter. It's tough to get yourself all stressed out for something like this, and then have it fall through. Her ex doesn't seem like a very nice person. Neither does his attorney. Whoever heard of zooming for mediation, not me! I hope they can reschedule it soon and that he does have to pay all the fees. Would serve him right.

Well, the bathroom sat again for yet another day. No phone call, no show from Dave. I called him at 4 this afternoon, and he said they had been out plowing till 10 am. That meant they plowed for 23 hours, I don't know of any place here that got that much snow. Then he went home to sleep and his son called and had something wrong with his water pipes so he spent a couple of hours there. He 'forgot' to call me and said he would be here tomorrow morning. Well, he won't if the weather forecast for the west of us is right. Frostburg is supposed to get 5-6" of snow. We are supposed to get none but will have high winds of 50+ mph. So it will sit for yet another day. I am stressed, I am disgusted, and sorry we even started the whole thing at this point. I know it's not his fault. He makes over $100 an hour plowing for the state, and I know the money is nice, but all of his customers are left in limbo every time it happens.

I already know it will be another sleepless night. I swear, if I thought I could spackle decently, I would be trying to do it myself. I might just do it anyhow, what's the worst that could happen, it would need a little extra sanding? At least it wouldn't just sit there waiting to get done.

 

[Snowysmom]

Lynn Too bad your renovation is on hold for now while the weather is bad. I hope he is able to get back to your house soon.

Kirby Will this be a negative for the ex considering he did not bother to show up and did not want to pay his fee? He really does not take this seriously. A zoom meeting for something like this is not conducive to a good outcome for the kids.

I signed the purchase and sale on the condo today. It is making me a bit nervous but I do feel like it is a much better fit for me than here. We'll see how it all works out. A new build is something I am a bit overwhelmed by but my real estate agent is very good and I will ask her for any help and guidance if needed. I have definitely been anxious and depressed today. It is good to find a new place but the reason for it is not good. I know I will always miss Chris like crazy and a place to live will never really be a home for me. But, I am hoping the outdoor space will help with a bit of peace and calm.

It looks like my area is starting out as rain when the storm gets here. Snow is supposed to come in tomorrow afternoon. I may be able to get in my mammogram at 1:30.

 

[bobbiwoz]

@Kirby, what a shame. As stressful as a meeting will be, when things are cancelled like this the solution gets further away, and stress and uncertainty continues, I am sad for your family. I really like that picture, I’m glad it is one of your own.

@Snowysmom

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Kirby and to you as well, Lynn.

Kirby, how awful! Extra prayers along with truly a heartfelt thank you to you, your DH, and daughter for being the steadfast loving family to your grandkids. I just feel so badly at how long this mess is going on, not positive for any of you.

Prayers continuing also for your son as well. Please remember to take care of yourselves and remind your daughter to do the same!

Lynn, please try to calm your mind and take care of yourself, my friend. I can feel your stress Take a breath, have some dinner, and enjoy another warm bath or shower. Be good to yourself!

Snowysmom I truly do pray and believe that once the topsy turvy process that is any move is behind you, you will feel more at ease. for greater along with healing in your new condo, of course, as well. We are here and care!

Bobbiwoz, thank you for your own kind support to Snowysmom. Prayers you and Tom are having a good evening.

I just called my dentist, Dr. E's office. Just as I thought, probably due to the heavy we had on Friday, my message never went through. I know his kind receptionist would have returned my call if it had. I briefly shared with her that I would like to take care of the small cavity sooner than later and that I had emailed Dr. E for reassurance that a simple filling would take care of it. She's going to ask him whether he received my message and get back to me. all for your encouragement and prayers to get this taken care of. I so appreciate each of you always. I will keep you posted.

Have a good rest of the day everyone.

 

[PollyannaMom]

It looks like my area is starting out as rain when the storm gets here. Snow is supposed to come in tomorrow afternoon.

Same here.

to your family, @Kirby. I hope it at least makes the ex look even worse when the court makes a final decision.

@lynxstch, I always feel like that in the middle of a reno too! But it will get done, and pretty soon, it will look great and you'll be glad you did it.