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

[easyas123]

Hope everyone had a great Christmas Day! We did - it was quiet and pleasant. To much food, to much drink, all the bells & whistles. I went to bed early, wasn't feeling to great due to allergies. But I woke up ready to go this morning and feeling fine.

lready took my shower and am about to get dressed to avoid the bathroom crowding

I meant to ask earlier, which resort are you guys staying in this trip?

 

[lynxstch]

Good morning. Having a heat wave, it's 14 degrees out, going into the 20's
Christmas Day was okay. Sister and Law and niece were supposed to be here for dinner at 1, which I had ready for 1. They showed up at 2:22. Irritated me. Then they hardly ate anything. Got to facetime with the 3 granddaughters in Salisbury, our stepson and his partner, and the oldest girls boyfriend. They had driven in from DE. Talked on the phone to the other stepson , who had to work at the restaurant. Talked to Summer, who said she would bring all the kids by this week before the boys go back on the road for work.
I am tired, stiff and sore, and not planning on doing anything much.
I went out to see if the mailbox would open, and nope, here we go again. Have been trying to get someone at the post office to answer the phone with no luck so far this morning. I want that lock changed. Finally got someone to answer, only to be told that today is a postal holiday. Of course it is. I have to call tomorrow morning to speak to her. At least I don't have to worry about any mail being put in there today, lol.

@Pea-n-Me glad to hear you are having a great time, can't wait til hear what the gift you got was!

Have a great morning all

 

[Snowysmom]

Good morning. 19 degrees here but expected to get to around 30. The rest of the week shows warmer weather. I hope everyone had a nice holiday.

@Pea-n-Me It sounds like you are having a fun time.

@flyingdumbo127 Glad you and your Dad had a Merry Christmas.

@Kirby That is a lovely doll house. DGD will love it.

Christmas Day was not an easy one. I did have a nice visit with Jeff and family at their house. Ellie got a doctor set and had fun taking care of Uncle Kenny. Going to Jeff's in laws was probably not my best decision. One time before dinner I had to go take a time out for a few minutes. I kept busy asking Jeff's MIL how I could help. But, after dinner, they started talking about all the young couples getting married and then went on to talk about all the older couples there and how long they have been married. I just lost it as I thought of how long Chris and I had been married and how much I missed him. It just seemed like everyone had some one and I was alone and heartbroken. I told Jeff I had to leave, thanked his MIL while trying not to cry too much, MIL's sister said she was glad to see me, and then FIL said goodbye just as the waterworks was getting underway. Jeff walked me to my car and hugged me. I texted him later to apologize and hoped that I was not being rude. He said everyone understood and was glad I came. He was concerned but understood that I had to go. Not my best moments.

Have a good rest of the day.

 

[bobbiwoz]

@Snowysmom, that was tough. I don’t think you could be expected to sit through that discussion. I am so sorry that happened. My hugs for you.

 

[PollyannaMom]

@Snowysmom

 

[Kirby]

Snowysmom. While it's not the same, DD has a hard time going to church when the kids are with their dad seeing all the happy families there.

Mona, what a lovely Christmas table!

Our Christmas afternoon was quiet. DS came over for lunch, wife was working. We had a Applewood Smoked ham from Costco, homemade mac and cheese and Bush Beans. DS brought over a box of cookies that a friend of his wife had made for us. We sat around and talked quite a bit then played a round of Skipbo. Talked some more and then he left about 7:00 pm. A good day.

This morning DD and I went up to Target to see what was left. Nothing had been marked down from what we saw on Friday. She did pick up a Disney Mickey's Christmas Carol game for the kids.

DD did get to facetime the kids last night about 8:00 pm. It was good to see them. They were happy to see their mom. Two more days and then they will be home!

 

[bobbiwoz]

…While it's not the same, DD has a hard time going to church when the kids are with their dad seeing all the happy families there.
…

We were estranged from a DS and his family for many years, and missed seeing our DGC for all those years. We are DVC and had gone with the family to WDW many times when the children were young. Going without them for the 5 years were very difficult for us.

 

[tazdev3225]

@Snowysmom - I can imagine that was hard to sit through. I think most people think that once you get through the year of firsts that life moves on. I know to an extent I am guilty of that. I was also raised by parents that don't view death quite normally. I will never forget when my mother got the phone call that her very beloved grandfather had passed away, she responded "Good!". I was quite surprised by the reaction. Now granted he was in his 80's and in very poor health. When I questioned her on her reaction she said, "Death is a part of life and we move on. Dad was in pain and missed my grandmother, now they are together again." I have learned through the years that there are many people of that mindset and don't get it when other people grieve longer.

Christmas went well. My grandkids and I had a wonderful couple of days together baking, memories I hope they have when I am gone from them to look fondly on the holidays and our time together. The visit to my in law's was very nice, though next year I am not doing as much baking for there by mutual agreement. My nephew's fiancée and I will talk about what she would like me to bring. To be fair more than half of the family is my kids and grandkids, so I do want to bring my fair share.

Ben loved his sushi making kit and wanted to make some Christmas Day. Wyatt took a lot of teasing wearing a Yankees baseball cap, AND he likes the NY Giants football team. That is heresy in my family. He was thrilled when he opened our gifts and it was all Yankees. I may not like his choice of teams but I will always support him and give him what he likes. LJ had a great time but at just shy of 2-years-old, the minute he opens a gift that he likes the others are forgotten. My gifts of course were ignored as I got him clothes. He will like his birthday gifts - Mickey Mouse outfit and Mickey Mouse football.

My parents came for dinner yesterday minus my brother. He wasn't feeling well. He did take 2 Covid tests this week and they were negative but he still has some symptoms. Most likely a cold with bronchitis which he has had issues with since he was a baby. Mom of course yelled at him because he was out in the -degree temperatures without a coat on. I had dinner timed so well that we actually sat down to eat about 5 minutes later than I planned. I forgot to factor in getting the food into serving dishes. I am usually very good at planning and horrible at implementation.

Today is a sit back and relax day. I decided to start uploading all of my memory cards to my backup computer as my brother advised. While looking in the drawer I had some of them in I found a hard drive I had completely forgotten about. I almost cried when I realized that all of my picture files until about the year 2019 were on there. The pictures from 2019 on are on my memory cards as I never reuse them. It was a true Christmas Miracle. They are now uploading to the backup computer and I will back them up yet again on another external hard drive.

I hope you all had a great Christmas and have a wonderful day.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Happy Monday everyone,

Weather is such a blessing extra here this morning. Truly so grateful to simply not be cold. Rain is expected later in the week. Please, each of you, in snow country stay safe and warm! Dad is out on morning shopping. I was given by a friend some Christmas puzzles which we will do over the coming months, perhaps saving one for next year. Dad also surprised me with a stocking stuffer of a 100-piece puzzle which we will do first because, of course, it came from him. We did get our foam gingerbread house kit that I'll share a picture of once it has been built. For next year, we will probably look into something wooden so that it will be more durable. The one we have now will be fun to create together. Truly small, everyday moments that are such blessings and joy. Dad loved his Christmas bowl, btw! Thank you all for your help with that. I'll think about getting him a personalized plate from the same site the next time free shipping. We were beyond blessed yesterday to by the Grace of God celebrate Him anew in health and with each other, that is forever, each day, a gift I cherish. Carol, I did indeed love the Children's Christmas pageant and am finishing watching the 9pm Christmas Eve service. You all know how much O Holy Night means to me so getting to hear that being sung at Christmas meant a lot. Extra Christmas time each of you dear Quacker family members, too.

Pea and prayers you are feeling a ton better now. Dad sometimes gets awful Charly horses. That was something my grandpa dealt with, too. No fun for sure. Thank you always for the love and kind care you extend to all. I look forward to hearing alter about your gift and of course more about your WDW fun (I pray) too! Stay safe and have a wonderful trip.

Easyas, dad and I also were so blessed to enjoy a quiet and peaceful Christmas. I am truly thankful that you and your family did likewise.

Sending you some extra , Lynn. Please do stay warm and take care. Hugs, grateful you got to talk with extra family on Christmas.

Snowysmom and I am so sorry you were in that situation. ITA with Bobbiwoz. I do pray you had some happy moments yesterday. Dad and I did have such a blessed Christmas, thank you so much.

Kirby! It’s always fun to set up the table. For next year, we will look more carefully into ornament stands. I’m picky perhaps but still don’t care for the metal tree ornament stands. I would prefer something simpler and probably wooden. Have time to look and as always, I would appreciate any extra suggestions from you or anyone else in our Quacker family. I’ve never played Skip Bo. Hugs extra to your daughter indeed! I can understand how that would be so hard. the kids did have a Merry Christmas with their dad and when they come home, all of you can celebrate again. After all, Christmas truly should be our way of life and in our hearts every day!

Bobbiwoz and I’m sorry you and Tom had to go through all that. Prayers that reconciliation has happened. Know always you are a lovely and kind lady, much appreciated!

We each indeed grieve different, dear Taz. I would pray no matter our views kindness prevails especially where children are concerned. I’m sorry if your mom’s comment made you uncomfortable. I am grateful you had a nice Christmas with extended family. Please do enjoy a day of R&R. You sure have been through so very much and on the run as well!

I'll check back later. Wishing all of you a great Monday.

 

[Bianca and Bernard]

.

 

[footballmouse]

Good afternoon.

Friday I spent the day cleaning and then I decided to bake chocolate chip cookies and make some reindeer food and buckeyes. The kids all came over on Xmas Eve. I think they were happy with what I got them, lunch was good and we played a fun game. It was fun watching the boys see and hold Mia for the first time . Sunday I worked so it wasn't too exciting. One of the nurses parents catered Olive Garden for our lunch. That was very thoughtful and good. Today I hit Walmart for some 50% off Xmas paper and cards.

I started back up with watching 1883 on Paramount+. House all is back to normal, Xmas decorations are packed away.

Jacob brought over the cat that they found at their apartment complex a couple of weeks ago . The shelters are all full and he's not able to keep her in his apartment. A friend of mine said she would take her as a barn cat (although she doesn't have a barn). She spends a week getting the cat used to the new surroundings and she has heated cat houses around her property. The cat has been in my spare bedroom and honestly I don't have the heart to put this cat back outside . My friend was in a car accident on Xmas Eve on the way to work. We got really bad weather Friday night and into Saturday morning, lots of ice. Anyway, she slid into a pole, totaled her car and broke her ankle. I am not about to mention the cat to her and she shouldn't be worrying about this cat. I'm guessing it will be staying with me.

Working from home all week but today was our holiday. It's going to be hard to go back in the office next week. Thinking I'll make some salmon for dinner tonight and probably pay my bills. What a fun night!

Have a great rest of your day.

 

[Snowysmom]

@footballmouse Sounds like a nice Christmas with your family and newest member, Mia. Thank you for taking care of the cat. You are very kind.

@tazdev3225 I think people believe that you have a year to grieve and then move on. Society does not do grief well. In reality, it is up to the person grieving on how long they grieve and how they grieve. Many people who lose a spouse or other close loved one always grieve but it can soften over time and get a bit easier on the heart as time goes on.

@flyingdumbo127 You have alot of puzzles to keep you busy for a while. I hope you and your Dad have fun putting those together.

Have a good evening.

 

[bobbiwoz]

Our family has reconciled, thank you for asking, flyingdumbo 127! We have had some wonderful times together in the last 2 years. A highlight was our family cruise in July!

 

[Breezy_Carol]

Good evening.


This was a take it easy and clean up the house day. Changed and washed the sheets in the guest rooms.

Saturday Andrew, Jen, and Marty got here about 2. Jen was still under the weather. Because of the CF, the flu hits her doubly hard. Jack and I went to 4 o'clock church, the kids service. Sarah and Tessa sat with me while Jack ushered. Justin was home with Carter who had thrown up. Home for shrimp creole with Andrew and fam.

Sunday we got up and opened gifts with Andrew, Jen, and Marty before going to Sarah's for brunch. I took a sausage, egg, and cheese casserole to share. Opened gifts there before Andrew. Jen, and Marty headed out. She was fading. They were supposed to go to her family but just went home. I was glad we were all together. Later in the day Sarah and family came here for gift exchange and turkey dinner. It was a wild, fun filled day.

This morning, after sleeping in to an unheard of 8:15, I got a text from Sarah that she tested positive and Justin was throwing up last night. They were supposed to go to Disney on Ice with Justin's parents. Justin and Tessa went. I am so worried for Jennifer though. And everyone has had all their shots. This is Sarah's third case of COVID. The rest of her family, as well as Jack and I, tested negative.

Turkey sandwiches for lunch and leftover shrimp creole for dinner.

Sound like most of you had good times with family, even if some sadness.

Mona, I own Santa’s Favorite Story and read it to Teresa on our car ride to the White House.

A few pictures.

Martin and Jen.



Jack and I in Tessa’s and Carter’s new bean bag chairs.



Three cousins.



Eight out of Nine is not bad. It was Carter’s nap time and he was having no part of picture taking. He was a n his back and if you look hard, you can see his foot bottom left between the tree and chair.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Footballmouse and thank you for giving the cat a loving home. I'm so glad you got to celebrate Christmas with your family and what an extra blessing from God to have Baby Mia present with all of you! for your friend! I'm so glad you enjoyed an Olive Graden treat, that was so very kind of the nurse's parents to have catered. Reminded me of a lovely grandmother of one of my church campers who so kindly paid for a group pizza lunch. Definitely hard to go back to work or into a routine after a break! Thank you, always, for all the faith and loving care you give to all in general and at the hospital.

Snowysmom and thank you. Dad and I have come to cherish smaller everyday moments. There is absolutely no one right way to grieve, my friend. I am so sorry anyone has perhaps made you feel otherwise! Always know, your Quacker family loves you and is here for you and so is God forever!

Praise God, Bobbiwoz! Thank you for sharing such a happy update with us, my friend

and muchfor all of your family! I pray daily for a kind and permanent end to Covid. I am very thankful you did enjoy Christmas worship and extra time with your family. Please stay healthy yourself!

Quiet afternoon around here. Deciding on how to use a Christmas gift and will do some online shopping for discounted Christmas cards for next year.

Love to all and have a good rest of the day.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Slipping thread save to wish each of you a sweet and warm good night with love.

 

[Snowysmom]

Good morning. It is 27 degrees here now and heading into the mid 30s today. It is a heat wave! My sister in Missouri said they had temps in the single digits for days last week with wind chills at -20. We weren't quite that bad thankfully.

It is hard for me to get back into work but I must. I have been having trouble getting my head into work lately. Probably just a bit of burnout and anxiety in life. Not ready to retire yet as I need the work to keep me busy now. Once I move I will reevaluate and see if I can find other things to do.

Have a nice day.

 

[footballmouse]

Good Tuesday morning!

It is 27 degrees here now and heading into the mid 30s today. It is a heat wave!

Same here. Hopefully we won't be having anymore of the below 0 temps.

Watched a couple more episodes of 1883 last night and then switched over to the football game. I did make an eye appointment for me and Jacob, weren't able to get in until the end of January.

Working from home today and I plan to get my ironing done sometime during the day.

That's it, have a great day!

 

[easyas123]

Good morning to you all.
I had a treat this AM and got to sleep in till 7:45! That is late for me, and a rarity w/ the pups wanting breakfast first thing! I have my husband to thank this treat!
Not much planned today. I have a nail appt. late this afternoon, that's it. Looks like we will get a slow thaw/warm up this week weather-wise, ending up a 60 on Sunday, although it may be raining in the morning we will probably try to get out for a New Years Day walk.
I'm supposed to go car shopping - AKA go sit in the several cars I have on my list to see how well I can see out of the back - this week. I'm not really feeling it, but I'm going to do it. Tomorrow or the day after! Being short of stature I like to go sit in them to see how well I can see out of the back, plus I want to see how the back seats fold down for the dogs. THEN I'll drive them...backwards, I know! I had the cross off the one vehicle I really wanted because I need 4 wheel drive and it doesn't have it, but I have a list of 4 or 5 I'll check out. I want the chore done of picking out the vehicle so that when the time comes later this spring we can just order it, assuming it is not available....my husband had to order his new truck in August and he's hoping to get in by the end of January!
Barn cats made out just fine in this cold weather, saw them catting around in the field behind the house yesterday morning. It was 18 degrees, those cats are hardy I'll give them that!
Anyone have any NYE plans? We don't, no reason other than we like to stay off the roads that night if possible and just have a few cocktails at home. Plus we find forced staying up late a chore Although we were very impressed with ourselves for staying up till 9:45 last night!!! I know a lot of folks have traditional or good luck meals on NYE and/or New Years Day -

QOTD - Do you or your family have a traditional or good-luck meal on New Years Eve or New Years Day, or any other tradition you observe?

My answer - not really...although it is usually over that time that we discuss and narrow down our travel plans for the upcoming year. This year we are settling on some property adjacent to our farm in January sometime, plus one if not both of the boys are getting married this year and we want to contribute to that cause so we will discuss it, roughly plan it and then execute it after the dust has settled on the rest of the years plans if our wallet can handle it! Our 30th anniversary is later this year, so we will use that as an excuse to splurge.

 

[lynxstch]

QOTD - Do you or your family have a traditional or good-luck meal on New Years Eve or New Years Day, or any other tradition you observe?

Has to be pork and sauerkraut. Had never heard of that till I moved to MD. In MA I would always make lasagna. I also take the tree down that day while watching the Rose Bowl Parade.