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

[Pea-n-Me]

I was able to pick up the plaque yesterday! We went out for a quick bite to eat last evening as we were finishing up some grocery shopping, and asked DS to join us. I went to get the plaque out of the back of the car which I had thrown a towel over, and DS saw it. I said it was a graduation gift for him. He was touched, but said he’d rather see it there than bring it into the restaurant. So like him - always downplaying his accomplishments, doesn’t like to be the center of attention, etc. Hopefully someday it will have a space in his own home. I drove his car home from the restaurant as he’d had a really long work day and we got to talk about his whole college experience now that the stress of his capstone was over, etc. He also put some Disney music on. As nice a moment as any will be this holiday season.

I can relate to the WalMart lines! Ours was over 30 minutes at check out! Part of the reason was because the lady ringing the register would stop and comment on almost every item she would ring up! And she didn’t know her produce, asking what kind of apples we had, and what kind of onions these were, etc. DH caught on quickly and started answering her questions to keep things moving, lol. (Not sure he didn’t make them up.) When I looked behind us at the end, there were at least six other people in line with full carriages snaked back into the aisles. DH also had to run out to the grocery store this morning as they were out of quite a few things on our list. I had a couple of non-grocery items I had to pick up but should’ve remembered they are often out of things on a major holiday - but then again, so is our grocery store. Oh well, everything’s done and I am smelling something wonderful cooking downstairs right now so headed down to have coffee. Getting a late start today, but I actually slept for a change, which is nice.

ETA

 

[momz]

I was able to pick up the plaque yesterday! We went out for a quick bite to eat last evening as we were finishing up some grocery shopping, and asked DS to join us. I went to get the plaque out of the back of the car which I had thrown a towel over, and DS saw it. I said it was a graduation gift for him. He was touched, but said he’d rather see it there than bring it into the restaurant. So like him - always downplaying his accomplishments, doesn’t like to be the center of attention, etc. Hopefully someday it will have a space in his own home. I drove his car home from the restaurant as he’d had a really long work day and we got to talk about his whole college experience now that the stress of his capstone was over, etc. He also put some Disney music on. As nice a moment as any will be this holiday season.

I can relate to the WalMart lines! Ours was over 30 minutes at check out! Part of the reason was because the lady ringing the register would stop and comment on almost every item she would ring up! And she didn’t know her produce, asking what kind of apples we had, and what kind of onions these were, etc. DH caught on quickly and started answering her questions to keep things moving, lol. (Not sure he didn’t make them up.) When I looked behind us at the end, there were at least six other people in line with full carriages snaked back into the aisles. DH also had to run out to the grocery store this morning as they were out of quite a few things on our list. I had a couple of non-grocery items I had to pick up but should’ve remembered they are often out of things on a major holiday - but then again, so is our grocery store. Oh well, everything’s done and I am smelling something wonderful cooking downstairs right now so headed down to have coffee. Getting a late start today, but I actually slept for a change, which is nice.

I totally read Plaque and "plague". I couldn't figure out what you were talking about....putting the plague in the back of your car. hahahahaha

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Such a lovely surprise to see you, Tina! We sure did miss you. and I am so sorry you and Matt have experienced so much loss and also sadness. Please know we all sincerely are here and care.

Love the Mickey in the sky, Lynxstch, thank you for a Christmas Eve Day extra smile.

Lovely to see so many posts this early morning.

My own current church is supposedly having a drive thru live Nativity tonight and (it sounded like) some type of service. I have shared with some of you about a questionable recent Zoom service that showed indoor singing/talking. I also don't understand how people especially at a church can choose to gather (extra for those in person and super close together) it's just not safe or IMO acting in faith because for one it (sadly) most likely will be harmful. One day. I, too would love to experience an even more traditional than I have in the past Christmas Eve service but definitely not this year! I will watch worship via the computer, read from the Holy Bible and Santa's Favorite story, and then set up stockings for tomorrow

and much to all of you, my Dis family.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

I totally read Plaque and "plague". I couldn't figure out what you were talking about....putting the plague in the back of your car. hahahahaha

Don’t want the plague in my car, for sure!

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Plague be FAR away from any of our cars!

Have any of you ever bought Amazon Essentials T shirts either for you or your DH? I need some extra T shirts. I can be T shirt picky (crew neck but a very thin neck) and soft. I have found sometimes men's T's can be of better quality and cheaper than women's so honestly don't care about that--after all, I stay home! I'd rather try T's from Amazon because the return process if need be (UPS, don't need to package) is much easier than Walmart (package to post office). In nonplague times, I will be going to Kohl's and Walmart in person but for now options are limited. Trying to get some extra T's also so Dad would only need to do laundry once a week. Thanks, friends As a P.S. I mostly need short sleeve but definitely some long sleeve would be handy, too.

 

[lynxstch]

I'm so sorry! I know how long it's been. It been so much juggle and emotions and trying to find my time to reset every day and try not take on more feelings as selfish as it sounds. And the DIS is full of all kinds feelings. I've taken up wreath making actually. I'm not very good but trying to just do something in the night when I can't sleep or when I need distraction while taking a new treatment (I didn't mention that something was found in my scan late October that had be dealt with now) so I'm making wreaths. I'm not very artsy but whatever it's something. I PROMISE I won't go back into hiding!

Don't even say that..it's not selfish at all. We were all just worried about you. We know your Mom was having issues, and you have your ongoing ones, and we know that both Matt and you started new jobs. I was just very glad to see your post this morning. Stop and check in when you have time to take a breath..at least we know you are okay!

 

[Pea-n-Me]

@flyingdumbo127 Not tee shirts, but I bought DS some Amazon Essentials Docker-like pants when he needed them quickly for work last year, and I thought the quality was very good.

 

[NYCgrrl]

Was up and at ’em early this day.

By 7:15 AM I was on Arthur Avenue, the Bronx’s answer to Little Italy. Changed my holiday menus around a bit requiring 2 more ingredients (which of course meant I bought 5, LOL).
DGD and I had shopped there earlier in the week so no need to get on the line for the salumeria, pork store, cheese shops, fresh pasta store, etc.
I have to say the lines were fun due to so many former residents making their annual trip to the Bronx from the ‘burbs. Two and three generations hearing tales of their elders growing up in the area,what stores where still there and which ones were gone. The woman who ordered a dozen sopressatas, half sweet, half hot, who I asked how big was the horde descending on her house? She gave me a look only a true Bronxite could completely understand. It said:” r u crazy?“;”Oh I need to be polite- maybe she’s from Queens”(the borough that confuses its residents into thinking they live in Long Island City, or Sunnyside, or Jamaica , just freaking anywhere but Queens where everyone else thinks they live ) all in one fluid movement, and said: “Nah, nobody but his mother and my husband but I’ll hang the salamis in the basement for later”. A woman after my own heart, LOL.

DGD and I are currently re arranging furniture to be able to eat next to the TV which will be our center of entertainment tonight.

 

[NYCgrrl]

ETA

View attachment 545658

Uhhh..... DGD wants to know if she can come to your house!

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Thank you, Pea! Your cookies do look very tasty!

Wow you were an early bird, NYCgrrl! Glad you got some needed items.

Have a good rest of the morning/early afternoon all! Stay warm!

 

[lynxstch]

Everything is ready for our buffet tonite . Devilled eggs are made, shrimp is cooked and chilled, loaded potato skins are ready to pop under the broiler. Just have to slice some garlic bologna and cheese, and add some fruit. Even the ham for tomorrow is cooked. Hubby wanted me to do it today , one less thing to do tomorrow. Off to sit and watch tv..or take a nap,,probably the second! Rain is coming down harder than it was earlier, temp is 44..oh and the sugar cookies and my Mom's english teacakes finally got baked this morning too!

 

[apirateslifeforme]

Tina, it is so good to see you post! I'm so sorry for the loss and sadness that you are experiencing. Please know that you are in my prayers and I sincerely hope that 2021 is MUCH better to you!

It's Christmas Eve and per usual, I'm feeling a bit down. 22 years ago today, at about 4:30 in the morning, I got the phone call that my dear grandfather had passed away. It was not unexpected - he'd been going downhill for some time, and we'd all gone to see him at the nursing home the previous night, so at least I got to say goodbye. It just amazes me that almost a whole lifetime later, I still feel such tremendous sadness on this day.

But I'm trying not to let Josh see it as well. My mom put together tomorrow night's seafood lasagna this morning - now let's hope we don't lose power! We're expecting 60 mph winds tonight into tomorrow, and Eversource has apparently called/emailed customers to tell them to "prepare for up to 3 days without power" After what they pulled back in August, that's unacceptable, IMO. But we did not receive a call or email, so maybe they're optimistic that our area will be unaffected, as our neighborhood has underground lines. Hopefully any questionable trees around the corner on the main road have been addressed as well.

DH should be on his way home from work right now as well. He was scheduled to be out at 1. I'm holding out on my appetizers, as those of us in the house ate a little lunch and I'm thinking that even with a half-day, the higher-ups at DH's work may have bought lunch for them. If he comes home hungry, I'll get started - I've already got everything prepped, just need to put it all together and bake it.

Josh has Santa's treat table all arranged. He made a placemat for him and put those gifts underneath it. We've already made the carrots for the reindeer and made sure Santa's special plate and mug are clean. He's all excited, of course, and has been watching the NORAD tracker all day already!

Merry Christmas to all! See you on the flip side!

 

[sparkle78]

 

[sparkle78]

Hopefully I get my much needed new iPad tomorrow, mine is over 6 years old and the buttons stick , often double typing my words. I’m hoping I can also figure out how to type and post a photo in the same post, once I have the newer device.
Tree - we like very large , like can’t get your arms around it , live Blue spruce trees. I splurged and got the Disney light up tree skirt at Hallmark several years ago
Cookie - decided on bar ones . Made brownies from the king Arthur’s flour recipe, delicious, but way too much sugar . My helper also put on a ton of M and Ms. Then made “ 7 layer cookies without the 7 th layer, no coconut “
Merry Christmas !

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Yikes, stay warm and cozy, Lynxstch, so glad you can rest now!

Apirateslifeforme. Prayers too that you feel your Grandpa's presence within your heart. Love is always with you, God Who is Love, made sure of that! I believe from Heaven, your Grandpa is extra looking over you right now. I hope your DH is safely home by now and most definitely that power stays on! Josh's Santa's treat table sounds adorable.

Beautiful Christmas Tree, Sparkle! I love Santa Mickey and Minnie, so cute!

ETA: I just noticed, you changed the thread's title, Tina, thanks for updating it and again so thankful you are back!

 

[lynxstch]

Yikes, stay warm and cozy, Lynxstch, so glad you can rest now!

Apirateslifeforme. Prayers too that you feel your Grandpa's presence within your heart. Love is always with you, God Who is Love, made sure of that! I believe from Heaven, your Grandpa is extra looking over you right now. I hope your DH is safely home by now and most definitely that power stays on! Josh's Santa's treat table sounds adorable.

Beautiful Christmas Tree, Sparkle! I love Santa Mickey and Minnie, so cute!

ETA: I just noticed, you changed the thread's title, Tina, thanks for updating it and again so thankful you are back!

you're on the ball Mona,,I never noticed it was changed until you said something..but then again, I usually only look at the word 'quarantine' and know I'm in the right place, lol!

 

[PollyannaMom]

Hi Everyone and Merry Christmas...

Welcome back, Tina! And Merry Christmas to you as well!

It's great to hear from you, and I'm so glad you are OK (but sorry for the losses and struggles that have kept you offline lately.) May 2021 bring all good things for you!!

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Lol, thanks Lynxstch! I did not notice it for a while!

I finished watching Christmas in Wonderland. I enjoyed it more than I thought in the beginning. I loved Heidi's relationship with her young niece and nephew. I was glad she chose to rekindle her relationship with Chris, her high school sweetheart. I also did watch the rest of Cross County Christmas last night, it was okay, fun but I didn't want to see "5 more extra minutes" to it the way I did with Christmas in Wonderland.

It's darkish and cool here. all of you are warm, cozy, and safely at home for the rest of the day.

 

[momz]

Such a lovely surprise to see you, Tina! We sure did miss you. and I am so sorry you and Matt have experienced so much loss and also sadness. Please know we all sincerely are here and care.

Love the Mickey in the sky, Lynxstch, thank you for a Christmas Eve Day extra smile.

Lovely to see so many posts this early morning.

My own current church is supposedly having a drive thru live Nativity tonight and (it sounded like) some type of service. I have shared with some of you about a questionable recent Zoom service that showed indoor singing/talking. I also don't understand how people especially at a church can choose to gather (extra for those in person and super close together) it's just not safe or IMO acting in faith because for one it (sadly) most likely will be harmful. One day. I, too would love to experience an even more traditional than I have in the past Christmas Eve service but definitely not this year! I will watch worship via the computer, read from the Holy Bible and Santa's Favorite story, and then set up stockings for tomorrow

and much to all of you, my Dis family.

My church is having all services via zoom as well. There is live singing there too. I can say that there are less than 10 people in the building between the pastor, the worship leader, the tech crew and a couple of other people singing. For the most part, it has gone off without a hitch. That is up until last sunday. There were three young girls who sang a special for Christmas. The worship leader tested positive for covid on Monday. She had the nerve to take a photo op with the 3 girls after the sang...no masks, none of them. Now all 3 have to quarantine over Christmas.

Stupid move....really stupid. the girls were spaced out for their singing, but they all gathered up for a photo.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Nice to see you here, Momz! I am sorry your church made that choice I still am disheartened that my own church chose to have people very close together some talking and others singing. Glad they (those involved) felt comfortable (I would guess) with that! I realized what a not positive message to be sending out especially to any children watching! A child watching may think well if so and so can be that close to their friend and sing why can't I? Or why can't I see my own grandparents (some of the folks involved were elderly)? IMO, they have also made some other questionable choices and as I have shared many times I live in one of if not the worst Covid counties in the country--LA.

Stay safe extra everyone and oh remember I do still have one Hollywood sign postcard I'd love to send one of you lovely friends on Monday. Please PM me by Sunday your mailing information if you'd like some happy mail