Coffee and...for Tuesday, April 4, 2006 =^..^=

Here's the daily continued from
http://davesgarden.com/forums/t/588283/
♫ ☼ Have a great day! ♫ ☼

Susan
=^..^=

Darius, never having had siblings I wouldn't know how to act. Looks like you will have enough 'sisters' to fill the bill, so I'll be very happy to be your pal.

Went to friend John's this evening for dessert and, I thought, to celebrate his coming home from the Hospital. Twas something different though, and a very enjoyable time. Except for the return home. We left the kids in the house since they are both housebroken, but found a pile of stuffing from what I don't know, cushions off the couch and the Fostoria covered-jelly knocked over and the cashews spilled all over the table, couch and floor. Immy has to have been the ringleader because Tinkerbelle is a 'big girl' now (almost 2 years old) The house has survived three other kids, and a son too, so I guess we'll have to wait it out and keep fingers crossed.

Tax day tomorrow at the Accountants. A spot on TV this afternoon urging everyone to be sure to file on time. Seems the IRS can, and will, slap a fine on we miscreants if we don't toe the line, then add penalties and interest which can reach 25%. Talk about usury. Anyway its always nice to see the CPA and it gives us a chance to get out together (DW & I) and have a nice lunch together. Last year we did great and even got a refund, enough for a nice lunch at Wendy's or Taco Bell. Hope this year is as good.

I think Oz is right about the squirrels. I hate to see anything be killed, but sometimes it's necessary. Right now we have Sea Lions going up the fish-ladders and up river to eat the spawning salmon, enough so that tonight the newscast said it could endanger run. The Sea Lions are a protected species and no one seems to have the authority to shoot them. Capture and release has failed, they just keep coming back for more. Sure hope something can be done to protect the ecological balance.

Sure was nice to get my hands back in the dirt today. I love the sight of freshly tilled soil. Maybe I can even get some seed sown this week. There are 8 colors of Benary's Giant Zinnias to sow. That is the one I'm really looking forward to seeing this year. The other 113 varieties will be fun too, if there's someplace to put them. Zinnias are a nice plant to sit and talk to. The only conversations I've had with Meconopsis, (is the plural Meconopsii ?), have been one sided, and with some naughty words. We only have 4 varieties of them this time. Better go to bed before I get even goofier. Say good night George.

Wow, the wind was scary last night. I have some big trees around my house, but no major limbs came down. Things are growing nicely in the greenhouse but boy, when I need to plant a perennial or shrub, I have to do it in 3 stages. 1). Dig the hole, 2) Mix up good stuff in the hole and 3) actually place the plant in the hole, cover it up and water it in. I take a break between all 3 stages because sometimes digging a hole means getting a mattock out and working on the deteriorating rock in the soil. Standing on an angle on my steep land while digging is a challenge, too.
But I get a few more things in each day, or at least divide some things and pot a few for the GA RU.
We found 2 great plants at Lowe's while looking for something totally different, lol. We got a beautiful dwarf rhododendron with lavender blooms and loaded with buds right now and a plant that I think was called a bog Rosemary, also covered with buds.Both had tags saying they would like my climate and part shade conditions.

darius add me to the list of sisters =o)) Since I've never had one it's nice to have another cyber one. And if your ever out here come on over and rest a spell.Well it is way too early so I'll brb....must find coffee..............Lauri

Brrr -chilly again today, but narry a cloud in the sky -so the sun will warm things up- I hope!! Got down to 30 deg last night- wonder what haveck it caused the the greenhouse...

Yuck - squirrels - love to watch them as long as they aren't in MY yard!! We have a lone one that comes around daily - I go to the door and hollar at it - he runs, then returns. We repeat this over and over. I would love to give him some buck shot in the rear...

Molly - glad to see that you are back!! Where do you take your animals when you leave? We only have one kitty, but leaving her is always a problem for us. She has her claws, so neither of our kids will take her. Bet your gardens will have made tremendous growth while you were gone.

Bal -shame on the doggies...and they knocked over fostoria!! It isn't Americanna is it?? I collect it. I've never purchased a piece- my mom gave me what she had and every years gets me a couple of pieces. You grow 113 varieties of zinnea?? They are one of my favorite flower, however, I've been plagued by mildew in recent years.

wood- we had awful winds here too - DH tried to get a fire going in the woodstove and the smoke blew back into the house - what a mess. When I got home, I promptly started one...hmmm and who's the weaker sex?

Time for some breakfast=just English muffins and raspberry jam - there's plenty to share!

Good Morning,

Sarv, my former housekeeper just moved up to a small town south of here. She used to keep my animals in Lauderdale too when I had to go away so they feel very comfortable with her and she knows how to hand them.

Well, I had a hard time sleeping last night, alhough my bed was nice and comfy. I peeked out the window a couple minutes ago and find the trees that were barren 2 weeks ago have greened up very nicely. I better get out there to look at them before they disappear and are recorded as a figment of my imagination.

Molly
:^)))

Hi all
sarv-your clouds are here if you want to come get them....LOL. The howling winds brought them. Guess what? It's s&*%ing here! I grabbed the plants I had put out on the deck - 75 delphiniums and 50 or so double holly hocks and a couple dozen daylilies. THey will blow away, and the rain, s#$%, and slush hammering down isn't their cup of tea neither!!

lauri-how is your horse doing? What is his prognosis?

woodspirit-Your place looks gorgeous in the photos I saw of the greenhouse, but I guess it's not exactly farmland huh? Sounds like a challenge to plant outdoors. Glad no limbs came down. That would worry me with a greenhouse too.

bal-amazing story about the sea lions. Unfortunately bureaucracies don't adjust very quickly to changing environmental conditions....hope there are some salmon left by the time they get through the red tape.

Susan-what a day rescuing the squirrels! I would too. We don't get much squirrel damage, although occasionally they'll chew through something...I guess there's enough space for all of us.

Oz-you are funny. I know the feeling about not minding being someone's worst nightmare! I just am so reclusive that I avoid most of the annoyances. Keeps my blood pressure down.

Molly-Welcome back!

off to the coffeepot, be back later

HI all: A bit gloomy here today ,rainy and cold and windy too. The weekend was nice,DH and i did alot of gardening,planted some rose bushes,tilled the garden and mended fences,boy do i hurt all over,next big project( if the weather permits) is to put a walkway in the front of the house and lay a stone patio outback.Going to try and relax today,after working a 13 hour shift at the hospital yesterday maybe bake a pie,any suggestions as to what kind,I'm listening...................see ya later
~ cindilynn~
:)

dmc, he is starting to bend the ankle joint now with the swelling going down, and hopefully is moving better this morning, it's still dark so I'll wait till light to go see. WOW that DMSO gives him bad garlic/onion breath!!
I sit here chuckling, sorry, at the squirrel stories but my Gladys absolutely hates them, she had one that would run on the top of the 5' tall fence chattering and tease her, well the squirrel got so involved in it's running up 2' and down and around the neighbors pine tree and chattering at herthat it sis'nt noticeher when she took off thru a hole in our fence, around the hen yard and back up thru the neighbors pasture and then without breaking a dead run stride through a square in the hog wire fence and caught it and killed it be for I could blink. The rest are now quiet when they are in the fields tho she still barks at them since I plugged the hole.
Molly great to see you are home, you will sleep like a log tonite after you have a look-see at your place and putter out there.
Glad to hear no one suffered and major damage from the tornados and winds, I'll keep my earthquakes, slides and flooding. Tornados sound too scary for me. Well I've been trying to teach myself to crochet a doilie..UGH I should stick to things I know but am not going to give up...yet. I wonder if they have a crocheting doilies for dummies book???? Sign me up...Must find something to eat for breakfast since I've been drinking coffee for three hours.May have some muffins and raspberry jam, sounds good......Lauri

Good Morning! Sun's shining bright and it's warming up already. Have a big bucket of Preen ready to go as soon as I have breakfast. Might pull some more crabgrass out of my little flower bed next to the porch. That stuff is relentless!

The red tail hawks here take care of many of the squirrels, I only see one occasionally so we don't have to take any drastic action. Bunnies are another story, but I haven't seen one yet this year. Keeping an eye on my hosta, just in case. Might have to get out my pellet gun.

We went to vote this morning. The joys of living in a small rural community...we were numbers 8 and 9, no waiting, friendly folks who smile and greet you when you come in the door. Also, the first several candidates had no opponents, which saves a lot of thinking before filling in the lines.

Dmcd, on the program for Menopause, they had a list of phone numbers for different venues where it is playing, the NY # is 212-831-2000, and Boston is 1-800-477-7400, I don't know which would be closer for you. Well worth a drive though.

Darius, did I tell you to count me in as a cyber sis? Well do so, I am well prepared for verbal assaults on any wayward family members if you need assistance....and of course, we can always fall back on the 2X4 if necessary. Between that, and the OffKey Choir, we could certainly inflict physical as well as psychological damage.

DH can't wait to duck out of work early today so he can play with his new cultivator spreader! Doubt he will be able to do it though. His boss is being shunted to another job, where she is sure to fall on her face, so his boss's boss is pumping him for information about current projects and plans, and usually sees him towards the end of the day. He's a key player, and knows all the ins and outs of what's going on. Or, not going on in some cases, where the departing exec has dropped the ball.

I have a little tiller I picked up that is similar to the Mantis. It's a little smaller, but very easy to handle. Got it at Menards a few years back for under $200 and it has held up very well. We had bought a Troybilt, when we had the minifarm, and that thing was way too powerful for me. I usually ended up being dragged behind as it careened across the ground, so I left it to DH to handle it. When we moved, we sold it and I found the little one. It's made by Dynamark, and I can even start it with the pull cord with no difficulty. Don't know if they are still available, but it's gotten a lot of use, and the little Tecumsah engine runs like a champ.

Bal, those naughty girls!! I suspect your Immy was the culprit, because Tinker is too much of a lady to indulge in that kind of mischief. You know how those teenagers are when Mom and Dad aren't home to keep an eye on them!

ViAnn, I was a much better housekeeper when I had a cleaning lady because I kept more of our miscellany picked up. I didn't want her to spend her time on anything but cleaning, not sorting magazines or papers or odds and ends that we normally leave on every horizontal surface. Now it's mostly catch as catch can, and I'm pretty comfortable with that approach. I get inspired occasionally but I can easily be distracted....

~~~ at everyone, I need to eat something and head outdoors while the sun is shining. Rain expected later in the week, so delay is not an option.

Sheila

Good morning all! Welcome to a beautiful day. I hope you all have a perfectly wonderful, healthy and happy time today with lots of gardening or resting or what ever makes you happy.

My posslq is planning to go up to the north farm to work on some clean up jobs. I haven't decided if I'll go with him or stay here and continue cleaning and preparing the "rain forrest" orchid garden. I am so ready to start taking plants out of the greenhouse! I really hope this is the last of the blackberry winter and real spring will finally be here.

One safe bet would be that no matter which place I end up at, I will be outside! Best wishes to all.
ginni

You're all gonna laugh - I just got back from the huff/p and went immediately to the freezer and got myself a small scoop of ice cream topped with a dollop of caramel!!

Made a quick trip to the greenhouse and everything made it except the coleus - they are toast. I only took three out there, so no major loss, I have more in the house under lights. Supposed to get cold again tonight.

I have nothing on the docket today - wonder what kind of mischief I can get into. Don't feel like cleaning, it's too cold to work outside - dishes still need to be done, chili needs making, and beds need the covers pulled up. Guess I do have something to do!

My first year being retired, I cleaned the whole house completely - all the cupboards, closets etc. But once it was done, I haven't cleaned that good since!! And truth be known, I probably won't do it again in my lifetime!! I have turned into a clutter bug- stuff all over. I need to plan a get together - then I get my duff in gear and clean...

Well, time to do a little something...

m5 and posse-

I'm about ready to go anywhere that doesn't look brown and ugly. It's supposed to get up in the fifties today, but it's taking it's sweet time doing so, so I'm sitting here playing backgammon. spose I could vacuum or something but that would interrupt the napping cats and that wouldn't be nice. They look so peaceful. Sammi's been a terror this morning, charging around and making those humpy sideways leaps, trying to look ferocious. Must be the birds getting him all excited. Just wait until the windows are open!!

Hope everyone else has a good day to get outdoors. I might bundle up in one of DH's heavy hooded sweat shirts and go throw the Preen around and let the wind help spread it. Brrrrrrr. BBL

Sheila

Hi all,

No aquafit today - or at least I don't generally go on Tuesdays anymore. but I DID go back to Weight Watchers. It's clear I'm not getting anywhere on my own. Costs 60% of a Hosta per week to go! Think of the hostas I could have bought if I'd been able to do it on my own.

Then I went out to a shopping centre and bought 2 new bras which were 55% off their regular price.

Bonnie - re the tiller, how tall are you? If height is an important factor, I'll probably give it a miss. I'm only average at 5'5", but with the various shoulder problems I've had, I wouldn't want to be wrestling with something that made me hold the arms up too high.

sarv, I hope your weather is heading this way. It's snowing here and beginning to accumulate. Supposed to be cool and a bit dreary for most of the week. But I guess that's OK as long as the precip isn't too heavy. Gives my crocuses time to develop buds and they'll all bloom at once when we get a mild sunny day. The pic is my crocuses last year which was a cool, extended spring and the bulbs were beautiful.

I have some bright orange Fostoria glasses that were a wedding gift. Love them, but don't use them much now that I have no dishes with orange in them any more.

Lauri - good luck with the doilies. I like to crochet, but I like a much bigger hook. LOL But my late MIL crocheted intracate doilies up to the day she died. Near the end, she would ask Drs to reduce her meds if her mind wasn't clear enough to do the math for nice even incraments. I have quite a few - all different and want to frame some of them.

Well, off to give the carpet a good vacuuming where the plant fell over yesterday and see how dirty it really is. And I need to set up my tape deck. Have two students playing in the Kiwanis Festival in a few weeks. I think they need to hear what they sound like. Couldn't find a blank tape last week and I've not recorded in so long, I need to ensure it's working properly.

Have a good day. TTYL

Ann

Well, I made it before lunch. Still feeling yukky. Headache, sore throat, aches and pains. Didn't sleep worth a crap last night. Had to get DGD's possessions together, so DH could take her to her h/s. She is on spring break, and will stay with her until Thursday. Also had some bill paying to do, so worked at that for awhile. They only thing that I plan to do is fix some cole slaw and mix the hush puppies for tonight's fish supper. After that, my couch and I will keep each other company this afternoon.

Sarv, you defeat the purpose of the huff/puff, by coming home and eating ice cream and caramel. But hey, you need a treat for actually going.

M5, I put my preen down last Friday night, just before a rain, so I didn't have to drag the hose out and water it in. I agree, running the sweeper would disturb the cats, so I would just let them rest!!

Molly, hope you get out and just ooh, and ahh, about all the growth on your plants. They are like kids, grow like weeds. You are lucky to have someone to keep the animals. For our vacation this year, I will have to put Mr. B in a kennel. He has never been to one, so will have to see how that works out. It's more of a pet sitter, but she has a grooming business, where she will keep him during the day, and she will take him home with her at night.

lauriewilson, glad the horse seems to be better.

tgif, whereever you work today, it will be outside in the sunshine.

dmc, I can get pretty FIRM with folks sometimes, so if you need me to help with the sis, let me know.

cyndilynn, slow down please, you are making me tired, just reading your labor descriptions.

Bal, I used to have a dog, who was an angel when we were around, but a holy terror, when left by himself. He once shredded a feather pillow while were gone someplace. Have you ever tried to sweep feathers off the floor, carpet no less. Vet said this was an anger issue, over being abandoned. Well, duh.

Wood, be careful on those slopes. Planting on level ground is challenging enough, but having to balance and dig/plant has to be another challenge.

Well, I am going to go fix the cole slaw & mix the hush puppies, and then hit the couch. The sun is shining, but it is chilly outside, so doubt that I will get out and do much. I may go out an plant some little fence/edging sections to keep DH's dogs out of my tulips/daylilys. They are making a path through this bed, and trampling everything in it. So will see if these little fence sections will make them choose another route.

I will check in later, everyone have a good day.

viann, we posted at the same time. About the question, how tall are you? giggle, giggle, I am barely 5' tall. Used to say I was 5'1", but you know the age takes some of the height away. It is hard for me to hold the handles properly and use the tiller. Due to my stature, I find myself, sort of pulling down on the handles, and therefore, the tines are lifted out of the soil. So I have to have my mind on keeping the tines in the ground. I like the way the tiller performs, but I think I would get along better with one that went in a forward direction, just having to guide it. Have I made this clear, it seems like I just typed a lot of babble. Hope you understand. I saw a little Troybilt tiller, about the same size as the Mantis, and want to go back, and see if they will let me test drive it. But finding dirt/sod at a garden center is pretty difficult. But I will not buy anything else unless I can test it and feel certain that I can handle it.

Well, off to the kitchen, will be back later.

Sarv, yep, it's the American pattern. Got most from mom, some from MIL and have been buying whenever I can. Two favorites are the round covered butter dish and the square decanter. Found the decanter with stopper at an Assistance League Estate sale for $ 35.00. Catalog price is $ 125- $ 145.00.
Only 8 colors of Zinnia, but 113 packs of assorted seeds. The sun is out, part of the garden is weeded, maybe I can plant a seed today. Oops, can't do that. Have to remain tidy for the trip to the Tax Guy, well there's always "later".

Molly, isn't it nice to see the plants leafing out. This is a great time of the year. All the new plants you guys have put in will be spectacular when they're settled in and blooming.
bbl

Bal - you wouldn't believe this, but I have been on the look out for the round butter dish for ages!!! I've looked all over for it - even having my mom look for it in Fla. If you ever see one, let me know! I have a book with prices in it and it is quite pricey.. How many pieces do you have? I wrote down all the pieces that I have so when I go antiquing I know whether I have it or not. But like I said, I have never bought myself one single piece...I really should as I enjoy it so much!!

I did buy some copy cat glasses, pitcher and flower vase tho.

I've been on the computer for hours- my neice just called me on my cell phone to talk= grrr she is the one who is so needy. I told her I had to hang up and to call me on my land line.

Pastromi sandwich for lunch- hit the spot. Good luck at the tax man Bal

Sarv, What kind of round butter dish are you looking for???Sorry if I missed something...LOL that is nothing new for me... I got one for a wedding gift and have never used it and it just sits in the cupboard and gets drug out and clean once a year...Lauri

LOL Oh if one goes back and re-reads what her pea brain just read it is there ROFLMAO!! What does American pattern look like??? Lauri, again

Hi everyone, just a quick check in here before I need to head to town, it's errand, shopping and chiropractor day.

Darius, add another sister to your family. I was thinking that the best kind of relatives are the non-relative kind. My bio family is also somewhat disfunctional and not at all close. I find that the people I choose for "family", and the ones that choose me are much more to my liking. You can't help who you are biologically related to, but you can still have a family. And it looks like you sure do have one.

Our weather is kind of dreary today. I'm glad I rode Patch yesterday even tho it was very windy and he was spookier than I remember him being in a couple of years. We rode down the road past the neighbor's place and that always worries him anyhow, but with tarps on haystacks flapping, and a few other moving things he sure was nervous. Twice he jumped sideways and I made him go back and walk that section again because there was really nothing. All my horses worry about what might be lurking there, tractors parked in differnet places and with different implements attatched, a different assortment of animals in the corral, pickup parked in a different place from last time we went by, noises coming from the farm shop, farm dog wandering around, etc. It doesn't seem to help to just spend time standing around down there because the next time we go buy something is parked in a different place, or the dog comes out from under a tractor to greet us, or ??

The neighbor called to tell me that the cows are finally starting to calve, about 10 days later than what he had calculated. Hmmm, did he write down the wrong date again? He did that with the sheep this year and they started earlier than he had planned. There will be about a 3 week space with no calves because his bull was lame and couldn't get around to get the job done, and then he had to find another one of the same breed which took a few more days.

Got to get going. Back later.

Afternoon ciber family!
Well, I'll just say here and now that you've *all* been adopted as my family so of course that means *you* Darius. Shame on her for saying such things. I've missed just enough coffee that I had to go back a couple of days to see what had happened and who in the world would say such a thing. I *knew* it wasn't anyone important. When I read all the post ... I was correct in my assumptions. :) Now mind you ... sometimes I think my ciber family is better than my real one. In fact, if anyone needs an extra brother ... I have one to spare. Mines being a *real* pain right now. :-(

Defoe so sorry to see you're under the weather. Sure hope your R&R makes you feel much better.

Mary, will you have to help deliver the calves or will you be busy with your horses? Sounds like you're really getting into shape.

Ann, how about sending me a copy of your cleaning schedule! You sure sound organized. :) Me ... I try to stick to a somewhat schedule ... but it's more of a clean when I'm in the mood sort of schedule, I think. LOL

Susan, I'm sorry, but I don't have your compassion for squirrels. Forgive me? They have completely destroyed several of my plants this year. They stole my hosta bulbs and are continuing to dig daily in my containers. If I could ... I'd get a pelit gun and run them off. :) Sorry!!! I've spent a *lot* of money and time in my garden, and they're causing me to *hate* the word s q u i r r e l

It's been breezy here and 2 of my tomatoes flopped over last night but managed to get them staked up this morning. Hope everyone is having a great day. Hi to all the new faces!~~~
... Elaine

Laurie, here's the butter dish. It lists for $104 to $150 in the Fostoria catalog. They are pretty hard to find.
Sarv, I don't know how many pieces I have since they are the garage cupboard, kitchen cabinet and china cupboard.

Elaine, Think of it another way - yes, Susan saved those little pests, but!, she sent them away to another home so that they (and their offspring) will be eating someone else's garden up! Now that, in my mind, is the best of both worlds!

Back outside for me! I'll try to check in later
ginni

lauri - look at Bal's pic! That's it!!! Oh, it is sooo pretty. Bal, you really should inventory all your Americanna - what if your house burned or blew away!! Now listen to me boy.....get that job done...and WHAT they are in the garage cupboard...(I think you should send those to me - in the garage- tsk, tsk)

Mary, I never realized that horses were spooked so easily (they sound just like me) Good luck at the chiro - hope he puts things in place for you.

Sounds like everyones weather is the pits - what's up with that? gusty cold winds here. They say in the 60's by NEXT Tues...can I wait??

Chili for dinner....

Supper tonight is Chick Marsala, tossed salad and garlic bread ... And for dessert strawberries macerated in balsamic vinegar and orange liqueur served with store bought biscotti. Hey Darius ... sweet ciber sis ... how bout some of your homemade biscotti? *smile* :-)
... Elaine

Can anyone help me with this foliage. It is in my wildflower garden, and I am not sure if it is a flower or weed. Anybody know?

Bonnie - it looks like a "Wait and See" to me.

Ann

Anybody else gonna chime in on the id? It stayed there all winter, and I really don't remember if it bloomed last year or not. All the other wildflowers died, and I pulled out the dead stuff. This stayed green, so I left it there.

Well, laid on the couch all afternoon, Mr. B right beside me. He is such a sweetie, he knows when I don't feel well, and he is there to comfort me. Forbid, if I ever need to go to the hospital, he will grieve himself to death.

Finally got enough energy to stumble to the kitchen, and had chicken cordon blu, baked potato, salad, no dessert, except DH had bought some cookies, and he attacked them.

Bal that Fostoria is pretty, my downfall is depression glass, everyone has their own brand of poison I guess.

Mary, sounds like your horse really spooked at everything. Aren't they a hoot? Some are just big scardy cats, and shy at everything that moves. Then some are bold enough to just go investigate. DGD's horse is very docile, and even lets Mr. B on board!!. It is so funny to see DGD, and Mr. B aboard and riding together. Mr. B sits in front, between DGD's hands on the reins, therefore if he looses his balance, her hands steady him. You should see him, his ears blown back, and sometimes it looks like he is "smiling"

tgif, that's the kind of squirrel saving I would be glad to do. Just as long as they go somewhere else. We don't have many mature trees in the yard, so don't have a problem there, but there is woods behind us, and we can see them jumping from tree to tree.

101, your meal sounds really good. I guess we both had chicken on the brain.

Well, I am going to take a shower, and go to my recliner to read for a bit. I will be back later.

~~~~ to everybody I didn't mention. With this cold, my brain is foggier than normal, can't remember what I wanted to say.

Hey Bonnie, hope you're feeling better and that bug has moved on out. Thanks for posting that picture, cause whatever it is, I've got them too ---- all over the place! They looked like they might do something (like blossom) so I let them grow, but nary a flower did I see. I've left a few just in case they turned out to be bi-ennials like foxglove, but I tend to doubt it and have been pulling most of them out whenever I encounter them.

I have a Mantis as well and last I knew I was a whole 5 feet and 1/2 inch short. (I've probably lost the 1/2 inch by now). I've never had any problem with the handles --- it seems to till just fine at a comfortable angle for me, BUT it's the pull start that messes me up. I just can't seem to get it going from a cold start. Our theory was that it was at a bad angle because of my height (or lack thereof), but if you can do it, that's another theory blown out of the water! It must be Nature's way of telling me to start lifting weights. DH had wanted me to get one of the larger tillers, but I figured that they outweighed me and I wanted one that I could handle on my own. If a big one hit one of our many outcrops of ledge and keeled over, I'd never be able to get it up and running again by myself. Just another case of Murphy's Law in action, I guess. I can handle this one just fine, but can't get it started by myself unless it's really pre-warmed.

Speaking of "warm" --- there are snowflakes flying by my window as I type. Rats! I couldn't put off removing the leaves from the flower beds any longer as the poor spring flowers were in great need of sunlight. I hope they don't all freeze now.

101, I do sympathize about the squirrel problem. We have a love-hate relationship going with them here. They do eat up an awful lot of birdseed and peanut butter suet, but so far they haven't bothered my gardens at all and they can be fun to watch. Today I saw one going crazy trying to get itself into the bluebird diner. I have no idea why as the thing was clearly empty and I'm not too sure that it would have wanted grubs anyway. It just seemed to think that it was missing something and was vastly irritated that there might be a birdfeeder that it couldn't somehow get into.

Poor DH was supposed to have a day off today, but he wanted to go in to my store and work on some of his plastic models. I suggested that if he wanted to be there, he could man the place while I got some things accomplished here that didn't get done yesterday. He was busy there this morning of course, and called me to complain that he hadn't even had time to get himself a coffee, never mind a chance to work on his kits. A little while ago I got a call from Trader Joe's because they're a bit short-handed at the moment and wondered if he'd care to work tonight. I let him know and he called them back. The upshot is that he'll close my store at 7 PM as usual and then work at TJ's from 8 to 11. Some day off!

Robert, oh dear, was Immy supposed to be going for obedience lessons? She really does seem to be a little hellion, doesn't she? I've got my fingers crossed for you ---- hopefully she'll grow out of her less than desirable behaviors.

Woodspirit and cindilynn, you both make me feel like a wimp! I seem to be constantly busy, but am afraid I'm not up to the physical feats you gals are managing.

Well, I did manage to get a lot more seeds planted in jiffy pots and have them sitting on a heat mat upstairs. Now I'd best get away from the computer and get all that cooking done. I'll be back to check in if there's time later.

Defoe - Hope you are feeling better. I've seen that plant before, but can't place what it is.

Susan - You go girl! Good for you rescuing those little babies. I don't have a problem with squirels here. We have enough woods across the field that they don't often come around the house.

Mary - The farm that DS works for started calving about a week ago. I love to see the little ones while the white is still snowy white. The beef cows come in spring, the dairy cows calf all year.

Which one of you is responsible for sending s@*& our way! We could get snow showers overnight and in the morning.

Gotta get a couple more things done before bed. Have a good evening all!
Just made some peanut butter bars. New recipe, so if they are fit to eat they will be out for a midnight snack (or Sarv's breakfast, LOL). Still have to make frosting for them.

Me again. More snap, crackle, pop and I am back in alignment. By heating pad with vibrators in it is getting a workout to keep me relaxed. After the last adjustment it stayed in place for a couple of weeks, so we are making some progress. Riding 75 miles didn't seem to hurt it, but a few days later I must have done something. I just hope I don't repeat that, whatever it was.

I probably won't get involved with the calving other than keeping an eye on them at times. They usually don't have problems and the newborn calves are not as fragile and succeptable to chilling as lambs are. If there is a problem that I can help with, I will be called.

Got to go, hubby just came home.

Well, after 25 tries in a row, I got an Internet connection. yes we have hi-speed now, but we don't always keep it connected. And ever since Sat., my ISP seems to have been having intermittent server problems. I managed to get a VERY SLOW dial-up connection earlier and connectd to their page to send them a complaint. They are a large, well respected company with super tech support. I've had NO complaints in many years of dial-up service, but if this is typical, we'll be gone soon. Problem is I'd have to relocate my family web site too. At least they aren't hosting a domain name for me.

Bonnie, hope you're feeling better. Mary, glad the chiro worked. Hi to all the rest. Since it took me so long to get connected, I won't try to catch up with everyone.

Have a good night.

Ann

Viann, high speed internet that isn't!! Drat, I would be irritated to no end.

Oh, susieq, please wrack your brain and try to come up with the name for me. I don't want to let them stay there if they are in fact weeds. Know about calving, I was raised on a dairy farm, and can't stand milk!!! Love the little calves though,used to love to bucket feed them.

McCool, I didn't address the starting problem with the Mantis. It seems, after I read the instruction manual, that the carburators have to be set for your altitude, or some such. I noticed last week that there is a Mantis service place that just opened in a nearby town. I have trouble starting mine also. The claim about starting of the first pull, haven't had that happen to me, yet. I think before gardening begins in earnest, I will take mine in and have the carb set, and see how it goes this year.

Mary, I go the chiropractor on a regular basis, my problem being, I have a great deal of arthritis in my spine and neck, and a hip that tends to give problems also. If I wait until I am hurting, it takes much longer to get the problems under control. I just said the other day, it is an adventure getting up in the morning, just to see what is not going to work that day!!

101, has the cayenne pepper not helped with the squirrels? I have a good idea, can you borrow a big tom cat, and let him hang out at your place for awhile. He may scare them away, then maybe again, he would make friends with them, and invite more to "party" on your deck.

Well tomorrow is grocery shopping day (again), and if I am feeling up to it, will do it myself this week. I didn't realize that there are so many ways to interpret a list of grocery items. Last week DS and girl friend went for me (last week was the back problem), and instead of fresh chicken breasts that I intended as I wrote my list, came home with a bag of frozen breaded chicken breasts. I guess I will find a use for them, ( maybe topping a good salad), and then I always buy Welch's Grape Juice, and when interpreted, I got Juicy Juice. Roma tomatoes, turned into a big old half green beefsteak tomato that tasted like cardboard. I could give other examples, but my grocery list as it stands right now, is something I understand, and don't want to risk having some surprises again this week. They are sweet to offer, and I appreciated them going for me last week, but I think I will feel like doing it.

The cold/flu came on so suddenly, Monday about noon, with being real tired feeling, and a severe headache, sore throat, progressing to fever and chills, so that by bedtime last night, I was in my gown, terry cloth robe, and covered with 2 afghans. Then this morning, the headache was gone, the throat was better, and just felt like I was in a fog. Now the coughing has begun. Have taken some cough medicine, and will try to get in bed early, so that by the morning, I may feel like a human again.

Well, you all have a good restful night, and I will check in in the morning.

GROWLLL!! Tax day was just fine . Last year we received a wonderful rebate of $39 and this year we only have to pay $20. Only problem is the accountant said this year I have to take 17% out of my IRA.(somehow I got to be 70 years young) We get along OK without having to touch the IRA's or savings so far, but Uncle says take it out whether you want to or not. Oh, and we will be happy to tax you on your added income! growl and nasty thoughts and words. Too bad winters are so cold and dark in Norway.

Well anyway, it was a beautiful day today and the Plum tree stump is out (except for a whole bunch of big roots) and more raised bed area is ready for compost and tilling.

Didn't sleep much last night and after a SMALL bowl of ice cream it will be off to nitey-night.

Hope all are doing well.

Okay, I'm back. Had to get the kitchen cleaned up and catch up on some of my forums for a change. Haven't had much computing time lately and am getting behind. :)

Defoe, had to LOL at your statement about loving to bucket feed the calves. When I was a little girl ... in 5th grade or so ... we were studying about the different types of cows. I raised my hand and told my teacher that my Grandma had "bucket" calves. She told me there wasn't any such of a thing ... and of course I augured the point with her, telling her that *my Grandma* had bucket calves! I believe I got in trouble for *that* one. LOL LOL

I do think the pepper is helping a bit but it's sure taking a lot of the stuff! I may go broke in the process.

Well, I think this time thing has me all mixed up still, so please overlook me again tonight if I just wave. I'm just plumb wore out it seems. Hope everyone has a restful night. ~~~
... Elaine

Defoe, I have a big 'boy' kitty, Snowcone, here is a picture of Snowcone relaxing under a squirrel tree. LOL Lot of good he does. Notice his nice label H. Guacamole....

On the plant ID, have you ever had Sweet William in there? Did this stay green all winter? just a thought...

You know how bad I am about wildlife that is wreaking havoc on my garden. We have darn armadillos that were so bad last year I was ready to shoot one, since we don't have a gun,...LOL,...we got a live trap and carted off 5 or 6. Got lots of pictures everytime of course. Caught a raccoon and a squirrel too, but of course we just let them go. The raccoons eat the corn and that makes me mad course the squirrels get into the corn too. So we just share. The gophers have trails ALL over everywhere, one could break their leg if they aren't careful. I am always lifting a heuchera, hosta or other plant when it becomes an 'air breather'. I don't understand why they go under there and just leave them high and dry.

That's why I have almost everything in a pot now buried in the ground. Much nicer.

Here is the daily for tomorrow,
http://davesgarden.com/forums/t/588848/
have a restful night ~~~~~
Susan
=^..^=

Well, all my arthritis is in my lower back and worsening. So I just do all my outside work (and inside, for that matter) in increments. This morning I am doing the bathroom shift. Scrubbed the sink ( after letting a paste of Zud soak in the basin - I have a lot of green copper in my water) and came back to post a shrub in the plants I.D. forum, went back and cleaned the tub and taking another break now.
It spreads things out so I can endure most of the day. If I'd lose some of this blubber; I'd fare a lot better.

Bonnie,
I think that is bachelor button.
Carol