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

[flyingdumbo127]

PollyannaMom, I've been wondering how you were this morning since you had not posted yet. Always good to see you. Truly hope you did enjoy your at home cozy Monday and have a great day today as well. Thank you always for all you give and share with the twins. you make such a loving difference to them.

extra to you as well B&B. truly God Bless you and your DH and your beautiful legacy of long love together. God sure blessed you both extra with each other. Wishing you many more years of health and adventure together! I do have to say yikes to all those stairs and so steep! Not for me. Good for both of you for navigating them. LOVE the porch and water shots, all your pictures are so tranquil and green, lush. Thank you for allowing us to travel to Belize from our homes. As a p.s Dad would love the blueberry cheesecake!

Dad finished up at the laundromat and is not getting a few items at Ralph's. He'll stock up more on Friday for the longer weekend and hopefully go to Pavilions Sunday and stay home on Monday Labor Day, Reminder to all that you might want to plan/shop ahead.

Waving see you later, friends.

 

[Bianca and Bernard]

Birds and butterflies:

 

[PollyannaMom]

PollyannaMom, I've been wondering how you were this morning since you had not posted yet. Always good to see you. Truly hope you did enjoy your at home cozy Monday and have a great day today as well. Thank you always for all you give and share with the twins. you make such a loving difference to them.

Yesterday kind of went downhill, actually (family stuff over the phone) but today has been making up for it so far. The cats let me sleep in, house stuff is feeling under control, and my lunch was yummy. Tomorrow should be great. - I made a bunch of review games for "back-to-school boot camp".

 

[tazdev3225]

Good afternoon.

Some of the grandkids went back to school yesterday and my grandson already has half days for the excessive heat. Over 100 schools in the district had to close early because the heat index was to high inside. I do not understand why they couldn't wait a week to reopen after Labor Day knowing this could be an issue. Of course, the special buses don't run on half days, so I had to pick him up. According to my car it was 92 outside and he was wearing a HOODIE. I was sweating looking at him. He asked me to stop at a local pizza shop near his house so he could apply for a job. He needs to go back tomorrow. It would be as a dishwasher but it's a start. I am all for teens getting out and earning some money.

Crystal got the job! I am so proud of her and of course until she actually earns some money, I need to take her to work if her mom is working. I did tell her I don't mind helping if there is bad weather or she needs to be at work and the bus schedule can't get her there in time because of school BUT there is a bus stop qt the end of her street that will take her right to the job. She needs to start taking the bus and get some more independence. If she is working til 9 or 10 and mom can't get her I will but that better not be to often. I am in bed by 10.

My daughter's BFF's husband has had 2 surgeries so far and needs at least 3 more. He broke both bones in his right leg @5 places plus a couple bones in his foot. His left leg has several breaks in both bones but not as bad and a couple bones in that foot also. It will be about 6 months before he can walk again so he will need to be in a rehab center long term. They are on the second floor and there is no elevator in the building. I sat with her on sunday while he was in surgery to keep her laughing. As I told her laughter will get you through this. From what she told me there were several things wrong with the delivery they sent him on, and the vending machine tilted but because it was loaded, they couldn't stop it from going over. It landed on him from the chest down. They will be doing more tests since his kidney function is off. What doesn't help is he is a diabetic so he will not heal easily. We do have a top-rated rehab conglomerate in Philly and there is a facility right near their apartment so that will make it easier on the family.

I needed some distraction so when I took Crystal for her interview on sunday I did some shopping. I got a Hocus Pocus T-shirt and socks for the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party when I go to Disney. I think I am going to put glow in the dark Paint on the moon that the Sandersons are flying past. I also got some Hocus Pocus clings to decorate the window on my resort room. For a trip I didn't want to take I am getting really excited about.

@Bianca and Bernard - the trip looks awesome. Glad you had a good time.

Have a good afternoon all.

 

[Snowysmom]

@Bianca and Bernard Wonderful pictures. Glad you had such a nice trip.

@Breezy_Carol I hope you are feeling better. Riding 18 rides on one day is an accomplishment. I am looking forward to Tusker House in Oct. We will be taking a much slower kind of trip due to the 6 grandkids. Probably parks in the morning and evening and pool in the afternoon. We have a rest day planned but will probably go to MK in the late afternoon.

@Judique I hope you have a nice visit with the new DGD.

Yesterday I went to Southwick's Zoo with older DS and the 2 DGSs. It was a bit hot but lots of shade. They were pretty well behaved and only got whiny and cranky after about 3 hours. We decided time to leave. It was a nice time and a good diversion for me. DS is taking the 2 kids to a Jellystone park in NH for a few nights. They have a cabin with all the amenities so it is not rustic camping at all. There are all kinds of activities to keep them busy. It is some nice Daddy and Son time for them.

My therapist is back from vacation and I got an appt for next Tuesday. I have alot to talk about for sure. She knows nothing about what has gone on most of the summer. I need to ask her advice about how to get through the one year anniversary of Chris' passing as well as getting through the Fall. Fall used to be my absolute favorite time of year especially since Chris and I started going to North Conway. Now, I hate the Fall as Chris passed in the Fall. Not sure how to deal with an entire season. Also I am not sure if I will go to work on the anniversary or stay home and hide in bed and cry or try to see a friend. I guess I will just see how it goes.

Have a good rest of the day.

 

[Judique]

Good morning all. The heat wave is finally breaking here. Low 80's the next 3 days. Chance of storms today, then clear sailing till the weekend. Hopefully it will be so those pretty gutters sitting in the side yard, end up where they belong, lol
@Judique --wonder why you are going to be so warm, when our heat is subsiding,,you aren't that far away!--sounds like you are going to need a break after all that running around!

Lawn needs mowing again, but it won't be today. I have cleaning to do, trash to gather, grocery list to make, and a couple of other things that need to be done.

Have a nice morning all,

View attachment 698166

It's 92 right now and the storm is expected by 5-6pm, and the temp will drop to the 70ties.

Next few days - highs of 84,87,85,87,89,85 - so we will be mid 80ties.

We are usually warmer in winter also. Guess it depends on which way the wind blows.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

B&B for continuing to bless us by sharing your adventures through such beautiful pictures! I especially love the photo of the way high up in the tree.

PollyannaMom. I'm sorry that yesterday turned out to be hard. Extra thankful that today has been a happier one for you, my friend. It was always hard going back to school both as a kid and teacher. What matters is that the kids are so very blessed to have you as their friend and teacher

for Crystal, dear Taz! I don't understand why schools all these many years since the dark ages when I attended aren't yet air conditioned! Poor kids especially and all educators. ITA with you that school ought to start in general after Labor Day. Much continuing for your DD's friend's husband. Yay that you treated yourself to the

Just a whole ton ofSnowysmom and always much care. I am truly glad your therapist has come back and that you have an appointment scheduled. and much prayer that your upcoming trip to WDW is plain FUN and can be a positive new Autumn experience for you, dear friend. I was just thinking perhaps once a week, at least, during the Fall, see whether you can schedule a visit, lunch, or other outing with a friend. Positives to look forward to that could perhaps become a new seasonal routine. The other smaller idea is like dad and I enjoy doing with why not make Autumn shaped cookies (or pancakes) with your grandkids and decorate them? Have an Autumn celebration day of your own that's just happy. Always I care and am here and so is the rest of your Quacker family. We love and care about you! And more than that so does God! He is with you always!

Yikes to the back and forth drops in weather, Judique! You please stay well and keep cool, too

 

[Judique]

We ate at the local market as well; DH had fry jacks (these had a gravy and cheese on them) and the best bean burrito he's ever had; and I had two...you know, I cannot remember what these are called. But they were amazing. All of it handmade, by these three women in their little stall.

Bottom right pic looks like Pupusas. Did they offer a thin red sauce and a vinegar-like coleslaw to go with them?

They are really delicious prepared fresh of the griddle, filled with beans and cheese, or just cheese sometimes. Some will have meat but I like the cheese and small amount of beans. I think they made them with a masa mix. I've never cooked them myself but have eaten them several times.

 

[PollyannaMom]

I got a Hocus Pocus T-shirt and socks for the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party when I go to Disney. I think I am going to put glow in the dark Paint on the moon that the Sandersons are flying past. I also got some Hocus Pocus clings to decorate the window on my resort room. For a trip I didn't want to take I am getting really excited about.

Love it!! I actually just watched Hocus Pocus yesterday. (I have the "Pop'n Knowledge" version in my DVR from last year. - I didn't delete it after Halloween because it's usually unadvertised and hard to catch.) I was up way early (to see DH off on a quick work trip) so it was dark and chilly, and I was just feeling that hint of fall.

Plus, with the sequel coming to Disney+ in September, I wanted to rewatch the original in preparation.

Yesterday I went to Southwick's Zoo with older DS and the 2 DGSs. It was a bit hot but lots of shade.

That's my favorite zoo!! - I love feeding the deer.


And I'm glad you're thinking ahead about fall (though of course I'm sorry about the reason). I always feel I do better with sad anniversaries and transitions if I plan out what I'm going to do to cope.

 

[Snowysmom]

@PollyannaMom The grandkids fed the deer and the goats. I am not a fan of the goats but liked walking in the deer enclosure. There are so many kinds of monkeys at the zoo. In one enclosure there was a baby monkey and 2 adults. The baby was swinging around like crazy and bumping into the other monkeys. One of the adults who I figured was Mom, stopped the baby, and I could just imagine her telling the baby to knock it off. The DGSs had fun watching them for a while.

I always have to plan ahead. That is why I am getting info from the therapist as she has been very helpful so far. I don't like to just "wing it" for anything. If I have some idea of how to get through this Fall and especially the anniversary maybe it will make the anticipation a bit less of a nightmare.

 

[AuntieMe3]

@Bianca and Bernard Love the Pics. Looks like a great trip.

@tazdev3225 congrats to Crystal. I hope this job is great for her confidence. When you described her before she reminded me of DD before she got her first job and it really helped her confidence.

@Snowysmom sounds like a nice trip to the zoo. So glad you were able to get an appt with your therapist.

@PollyannaMom can't wait for Hocus Pocus 2. Love the first one. So fun.

Bottom right pic looks like Pupusas. Did they offer a thin red sauce and a vinegar-like coleslaw to go with them?

That's what I was thinking too...yum. I love pupusas.

Vertigo feels worse today, I just feel a little dizzy right but at least it's not making me feel unsteady on my feet like it has before. Trying some sinus meds and a nose spray to see if it will help clear up the sinuses. At least I had a Dr appt already scheduled for Friday so if it's not better by then, I can ask about it.

Another thing I'm dealing with right now is I'm pretty sure our dog had doggie dementia. I've been thinking it for a while now but the last couple days its been pretty obvious he's not being himself. So that makes me sad because that means we're going to need to make a decision soon and I don't think any of us are ready for that.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Fantastic picture, PollyannaMom! Awesome that the's allow you or grandkids to feed them! The closest I've ever come to a deer was one wintry day in Yosemite when dad and I saw two mule deer close by and got their picture. Years ago, I read a sweet story in a Chicken Soup book about Frankie the Deer which I just Googled and found a free version of. it was in Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul The Deer and The Nursing Home Page 1 and The Deer and the Nursing Home Page 2

Love and extra prayer, AuntieMe3 all-around! PLEASE feel better!

Judique, I must have cookies or pancakes on my mind because this morning when I looked at that picture I saw a melty or cookie!

and extra hug, Snowysmom. If you like the grandkids Fall celebration idea, why not ask your son(s) what upcoming Saturday would work for you to have a special Autumn Day with your grandkids. Could even have two different "holidays" with each set sets of kiddos and do different things. Of course, consult the kiddos first! Some ideas off the top of my head are to make cards for each other or decorations. Maybe ahead of time the kids could color an autumn day (whatever you want to call it) sign. Then try to do the same thing if fit's a hit next year at the same time. Remember to schedule at least once a week a fun and free time just for YOU to do from home even if it's as simple as watching a Hallmark movie!

Just found Fall n Leaves Cookie Dough for something easier than making sugar cookie dough. The Walmart almost an hour from me indicates being out of this. Maybe your location has it or something similar. I'm not able to eat sprinkles (too hard/crunchy) but thought these would be fun for kids. Lol, a baker I am not but there are probably cute Autumn cupcake recipes, too. You could even use a cookie cutter (Amazon and Walmart, probably Michaels would, too) sell seasonal cookie cutters in bread for sandwiches. Could also make cards or do some Autumn word puzzles Watch an autumn movie.

Cute Printable Monthly Calendar Pages that you could use each month of any season. Just always know your Quacker family cares!

ETA: PollyannaMom, why not ask the twins what they think of a Fall Day celebration as a back-to-school new activity?

 

[Bianca and Bernard]

Bottom right pic looks like Pupusas. Did they offer a thin red sauce and a vinegar-like coleslaw to go with them?

They are really delicious prepared fresh of the griddle, filled with beans and cheese, or just cheese sometimes. Some will have meat but I like the cheese and small amount of beans. I think they made them with a masa mix. I've never cooked them myself but have eaten them several times.

Yes, thank you! I could not remember the name of them. It was beans and cheese.

 

[Snowysmom]

Good Morning. It is is raining here so no walk right now. I will start work early and then walk when it clears up.

@flyingdumbo127 Thanks for the great Fall ideas. I like the idea of making cookies with grandkids. Younger DS's kids love to do crafts so your ideas are much appreciated.

It is still monsoon season here. Younger DS called last night to say he tested positive for covid. I then tested but was negative. I was more tired than usual yesterday and a bit queasy as the day went on. Now I have a sore throat and a headache and still feel queasy. I will test again this morning. He tested negative on the first test and when he tested later in the day he was positive. It could be a cold too as that is going around.

Have a nice day.

 

[PollyannaMom]

Just a quick hello, as its a kid day.

Have a good one, everyone!

 

[footballmouse]

Good Wednesday morning everyone!

Supposed to be a beautiful day here today, low 80's and no rain. Wish I was working from home so I could get outside during the day, but I'm stuck in the office.

Nothing going on that's exciting for me. My great niece is up for Player of the Week for girl's soccer . There are 6 girls in the running so we've been voting every hour. She's in the lead by 100 votes, voting continues through Friday. She's a freshman on the varsity team and scored the only 2 goals in their first game and then another one in the 2nd game.

Snowysmom - sorry to hear that your Ds has COVID, hopefully you'll keep testing negative. Maybe on the anniversary of your DH's passing, you could plan to spend time with your sons since they will be having a rough day also. Is there something that you liked doing as a family? Maybe do something that your DH enjoyed. My sisters and I always spend the anniversary of my mom's passing together. We find something fun to do. On the 1st anniversary of that my brothers-in-law took my dad golfing so he wouldn't be by himself. The first anniversary of my dad's passing we all met at a German restaurant and had a beer for my dad . Definitely don't spend it by yourself or curled up in bed, he wouldn't want you to do that. If you have a dog shelter in your area, contact them and see if you could take some dogs for walks that day. The dogs would be very grateful and you've mentioned that you enjoy seeing the dogs in your complex.

PollyannaMom - cute picture with the deer . I would probably spend the entire time at the zoo feeding the deer and goats. I loved going to the petting area in the children's section of our zoo. They provide brushes so you can brush the goats, that's what I would always do while my kids fed them.

Tazdev - congrats to Crystal on joining the work force ! Hope she enjoys her new job.

AuntieMe3 - hoping your dog was just having a bad day . I hate hearing about things like this.

I have a baby shower for a coworker to go to on Friday and didn't realize it was coming up . I'm going to head out tonight before going to Ds1's soccer game and get a gift. I usually get some type of toy for shower presents.

That's it for me, hope everyone has a great day.

 

[lynxstch]

Good morning all. Welcome to a gorgeous day here. Low 80's, no humidity, sunshine, and nice breeze for later on. Hoping to get to the market later on with my sister in law and niece, and hoping that the handyman comes over around dinnertime and at least starts the gutter install

@footballmouse --great ideas for Snowysmom and the upcoming anniversary of her Chris. I would also suggest, trying something new, instead of something old, to make new memories. It doesn't mean they will be forgetting him, it will just mean that they are starting to heal a little more. Just my opinion

@PollyannaMom --enjoy your 'kid' day!

Off to take the trash out. Also have to mow sometime soon. Will see after we decide what time we are going grocery shopping. Mr L still doesn't feel like going out, even to just sit in the car while I shop.

Have a nice morning

 

[footballmouse]

I would also suggest, trying something new

That's a good suggestion also. Each year, pick something new that you would like to try or experience.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Snowysmom and feel better! I also really like Lynn's suggestion to try something new along with Footballmouse's dog walking idea. I'm so glad the Fall ideas were helpful. May they bring you and your grandkids much fun and cheer.

Have fun with the kids today, PollyannaMom! Thank you again and always for all you do for and with them.

congratulations to your great niece, Footballmouse! Enjoy the baby shower on Friday.

Lynn, dad has asked me several times if I wanted to sit in the car while he ran into a store very quickly to shopLike, Mr. L for the most part, I've preferred not to do so except on route or one the way home from the dentist when it makes sense. Usually too hot to do so anyway. Perhaps when it cools off, Mr. L might simply enjoy taking a short drive with you.

Quiet around here. Back to getting some ready. Will check in later. Have a wonderful last day of August, friends

 

[lynxstch]

@flyingdumbo127 --Mona,,Mr L likes to wait/sit in the car while I shop. He hasn't ( and I mean literally and physically) been in a store since Oct 2019 lol!

Waiting for SIL and niece to get here. At 10:50 she said they would be here in 10 minutes. Its now almost an hour later and they just texted that they are on their way, lol. They live about 15 minutes away. Those 2 will be late for anything and everything! One of my pet peeves is being late for anything!
QOTD--what is your pet peeve? (or peeves if you have more than one)