Tall Tales from Kansas

a trail of lots of pictures, cautions, and what to monitor yourself for

May I suggest that if you and 3 friends decide to go walking in the woods on a fine summer day (which is a wonderful idea), 

especially if the area is heavily wooded and the trail narrow (as noted below),  

that you use some bug spray before heading out...

and STILL examine yourself closely for ticks when you get done. A total of 6 ticks were found on our party of 4. Some of these after a thorough showering. 

A quick google search will lead you down a trail of lots of pictures, cautions, and what to monitor yourself for. Bummer. This was a nice trail but we won't be heading back there anytime soon.  

 

arguably the most valuable possession in my home

Today, while finishing up the Sunday New York Times, as I sat at the table in the dining room, determined to also "clear out" the backlog of book reviews from the last 2 months, I came across this wonderful article about clutter.

After reading, this photo was taken and immediately sent to sister (who, by example, is always inspiring me to get rid of stuff I no longer need), AND a work colleague who has a very similar design aesthetic to mine (little did I know it has a name "cluttercore"), to let her know that we had been validated.  
It seems so apropos on January 2nd to give a big shove to minimalism. NOT that there is anything wrong with that. In the photo above, on top of the article, you will note the spoon. I grew up with that spoon. It was Angie's. She stirred soup, enchilada sauce, cake batter, and large pots of pinto beans with that spoon. It is arguably the most valuable possession in my home. That's how much I love it. No one else in the entire world would guess that, except maybe Dottie. 

Thanks Rob Walker for making me chill the heck out about decluttering and instead focus on the memory and the love I have for "stuff" in our house. That said, you will note below, an excessive amount of "special" kitchen utensils below, in containers, on the counter. 

Chris and I have discussed downsizing this to maybe one container? Could we do that? This article also helped me realize it's quite possible that Chris loves every single utensil in those 3 containers as much as I love the ONE spoon from mom. Maybe in 2023 we will settle on the MOST loved utensils and get down to 2 containers. Or maybe not. 

P.S. I threw out 4 Book Reviews without even looking at them. Just to show I can declutter when needed.

Helpful links: Decluttering article from 12/29 NYT

CDC Quarantine Calculator

We haven't talked about COVID-19 for many months here on this blog. I think we have all incorporated it into life as part of everyday existence. Our numbers here in the midwest have been low, and hospitalizations for it have been down. However, where I work we are starting to see cases creep up a bit and in the event that you find yourself exposed to someone who has tested positive, or you yourself have tested positive, and you are not sure what the protocol should be... I am providing a link to the CDC Quarantine calculator below.  It is very user friendly. You answer the first question and it leads you to the next and gives guidance on what you should be doing in terms of isolation etc. I have used it myself and found it to be quite helpful.

CDC Quarantine Calculator

a piece of stupidity or folly

It's Friday and I am feeling frisky, and for this reason, and this reason alone, I can not stop myself from sharing this with you.  If you have already heard about it, pretend like you haven't. Humor me. 

My discovery was on the list of most looked up words last week from Merriam-Webster.  As a self-proclaimed word nerd I can't help following the word of the day... which sometimes also includes things like "most looked up words". That might not be exactly what it's called but it's real close. 

But enough already! Here it is. My FAVORITE new word.

jackassery (jack.ass.ery) a piece of stupidity or folly, doltishness.

So much potential for use.  I will do my best to be very selective with it. You don't have to be though. Use it as many times as you can this weekend and allow all that stupidity to roll off your back, while you laugh out loud at the jackassery of it all. 

P.S. the word has been around since the 1830's - initially found in London magazines and newspapers. Yet another reason to love those clever Brit's. 

on page 13 of the guide to looking good in any situation

Apparently I was in an orange frame of mind when I went outside to snip flowers last week.

With a dash of yellow and a stem of sage, placed on top of a cupcake platter for extra height, I liked them just fine.

They are only surpassed by the front porch arrangement this week which consisted of big, bushy, blooms, of bright colors.

Again with the color transitions... 

Upstairs by the computer there was this,

and in front of the sink, these. 

On a completely unrelated topic... at this exact moment I am texting with a friend - we have nothing to wear to the "cocktail party" we are going to tonight. I am trying to convince her that we should wear halloween costumes and she doesn't seem to think that will work. As for me, I am going to adhere to what is written on page 13 of the guide to looking good in any situation, "...the key to feeling confident in what you are wearing wherever you go, is not looking in the mirror after you are dressed, and believing what your mind tells you when it says you look great".

vaccination story - part 2

The chatter at work by those who “know someone” who has received their second vaccine injection, is that the side effects in terms of body aches, fever, and overall malaise were worse with the second shot. I got my second dose of the Pfizer vaccine on Wednesday afternoon. Once again, I had no immediate reaction - no flushing, weakness, or dizziness. Thirty six hours later I remain symptom free, except for a sore arm that is expected with any vaccine. I have not required any Tylenol or Advil.

Above is my my friendly, competent, efficient vaccine giver. Below is my sticker. I may have taken 2 so I could also put one on the new everyday journal I am getting to initiate.  

As unpredictable as this virus is, in terms of how it knocks some people on their butts, while leaving others completely without symptoms, I guess it's no surprise that the vaccine should impact us all differently. Our individual immune systems are just that - very individual. 

Consider this a public service announcement. If you are fortunate enough to be offered a dose of the vaccine, I hope you choose to take it. If not, there will surely be someone else in line thankful for the opportunity, and willing to roll up their sleeve. I see no reason to try and "convince" those who don't want a vaccine to take it. Instead lets focus our energies on seeing that those who do want it are able to get it. 

Frankly, trying to sway others to my way of thinking on this whole pandemic, is an exercise in futility that only serves to leave me feeling depleted of the energy I need to do my work, and stay healthy. Below is a great link to frequently asked questions about the COVID 19 vaccines. Only for those who are interested. 

FAQ's about Vaccines 

a good way to approach the coming months

How about we discuss COVID today? Neighbor to neighbor. Across the back fence, or on the front porch. Grab a cup of coffee before you start reading. I'll wait.

I want to talk about how COVID is spreading now as opposed to early on in the pandemic, the hospital capacity situation, what's happening with vaccines, and what we should do about the upcoming holidays. I will try to stay on track with this outline

In the spring we heard about "clusters" of infection - in prisons, nursing homes, church services/funerals, and large gatherings. We still see this, but now the numbers are being driven by smaller gatherings in homes and communities - all communities. Small towns in more rural areas who early on had no cases, and did not feel the need to mask/isolate, are now struggling. Right now, Kansas has the fourth highest positivity rate in the country at 43.8% based on data from Johns Hopkins.

The community spread is also increasing the numbers of patients who are hospitalized. Yesterday in our hospital we had a total of 126 COVID patients - 84 actively infectious, 31 of those in the ICU, 12 of those on ventilators. The 126 also includes 42 patients who have "recovered" but are still too sick to leave the hospital. Non-emergent surgeries are being delayed to increase bed capacity for those who need those beds NOW. We are a hospital that routinely accepts critically ill patients from across a multi-state area who need a higher level of care than can be provided in their community. We are now not able to accept some of these patients. Can you imagine trying to decide which of 2 patients needs our care more, when clearly both do? The problem is we can't just put up tents or fixed wall facilities to get more beds. We must have the STAFF to care for the patients. There are over a hundred staff members who are unable to work because of COVID. They either have it, are awaiting test results, or are isolating/quarantining. All across the country hospitals are struggling with this, making it impossible for healthcare workers from one area of the country to travel to another area to help out, as seen previously in natural disasters. We are trying to figure out how we can transfer patients who no longer need our specialized care (but still must be in a hospital) back to their community hospitals to free up beds. Something typically not done. 

Vaccines are in the news. With both Pfizer and Moderna reporting promising results, work is underway to figure out the logistics of distribution and prioritization. Healthcare workers taking care of COVID patients will likely be in the highest category of need, followed by individuals in long term care/skilled nursing facilities, then essential workers, people who are at high risk of serious illness, and lastly the general population. These vaccines will require an initial injection, followed by a second injection several weeks later. The second injection must be the same vaccine as the first; they are NOT interchangeable. This is going to sound silly, but for vaccines to be effective, they must be given. We know some people do not believe in vaccinating themselves or their children. Please be very thoughtful about your decision not only for yourself, but for your household/community. At this time we do not know if these vaccines will need to be given annually (like the influenza vaccine) or perhaps semi-annually. Along those same lines, we know that being infected with COVID likely makes you immune from re-infection for about 90 days. This means that if you've had it you must still follow the same precautions as someone who has not been infected. 

Finally lets talk the holidays. Here are some guidelines for staying safe. Gatherings are best kept small - 4 at the most. Even at that, if you do not normally live under the same roof, you should be masked and maintain some distance especially while you are eating and your masks are off. Individuals coming home from colleges/universities are a worry - even more so if they are flying home. To quote Dr. Lee Norman of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, we need to "virtually carve the turkey" this year. Chris and I have cancelled our usual holiday extravaganza and will be dining alone. We are hoping to be able to take our usual turkey day hike outside with family in the area. Masks will be required, keep your distance, no hugging allowed, and bring your own thermos of coffee.  

The pillars of good infection prevention remain the same: wear a mask, continue to socially distance, wash your hands. This post is not meant to tell you what to do. Rather, it's what I think is a good way to approach the next months based on what is happening right now. Remember, this is a friend to friend conversation, one neighbor to another. It's based on my understanding of best practices to stay safe. I don't normally do this, but if this resonates with you, pass it on to your family and friends for a read. But only as my opinion, as a regular person, not a scientist, not a politician, just a citizen of the world.

I am sorry that Vera can not give you your injection

Please consider this your friendly reminder that it's time to roll up your sleeves and get a flu shot!

I am only sorry that Vera can not give you your injection.  Unless you work at KU, then I guess you could request her.  Practically pain free and extremely efficient.

many a golf club has been cleaned sitting in that very chair

This past week, using his stagehand and technical theatre background, Chris replaced the webbing on a lawn chair.

The appropriate placing and setting of grommets is a skill with many useful applications.  

It was at my insistence that one of the old strips be retained. Because as much as this is about re-using, and not replacing, it is more about the fact that this "antique" has been in the Moss family for many, many years. Ray and Angie would always pull it out and sit in the driveway or out back at their house. Many a golf club has been cleaned sitting in that very chair by dad, and mom brought it along when they came to visit so she could supervise any gardening chores. 

I gave Chris an A+ for completion of this job in a timely manner, and with great skill.  It will be traveling with us to the cemetery in October. 

There was also the beer for a job well done. It is important to reward and recognize hard work. Especially when you may have ideas for other things that could use his skill and attention. 

we are experiencing a prolonged fluctuating plateau

Today I thought I would take a minute to share a snapshot of the COVID-19 situation in my area.  To start, I am now off the COVID positive palliative care team. I recognized the need for a break from this very difficult work and the 6 advanced practice nurses on our team are all taking turns rotating through it. This makes sense for lots of reasons. 

Lets start with the numbers:
In the hospital this morning we had 25 COVID positive patients hospitalized and in isolation.  We also had 27 patients who are considered to be recovered (no longer in isolation) but still sick enough to be in the hospital. More about that in a minute. 

In Kansas we are experiencing a prolonged fluctuating plateau but have moved from low to high numbers. It is anticipated that we will have a slower, more prolonged downward trend, and may have more “peaks” in the future.  As of today, in the state of Kansas we have had 40,968 cases and 446 deaths. In Douglas county, where I live, we are seeing an influx of college students and a BIG increase in numbers related to this. Specifically among the fraternity/sorority population where there is a 10% positive rate and quarantining is supposed to be going on in an effort to decrease these numbers.  

At the hospital were I work, we are seeing more new admissions per day than we have previously seen at any point in this pandemic. We are not “overwhelmed” but it would be appropriate to say the system is “stressed”.

Above I mentioned patients who are considered to be “recovered”. Let me take a second to explain what that means.  In the hospital a patient can come out of isolation if the following criteria are met:

1. COVID + patients who have confirmatory lab results who have gone 24 hours without a fever of 100.5 or higher (without use of fever reducing meds), AND improvement in respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath), AND it has been 10 days since the first diagnostic test.
2. Patient with high suspicion of having COVID 19 without confirmatory lab test who have gone 24 hours without a fever of 100.5 or higher (without use of fever reducing meds), AND improvement in respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath), AND it has been 10 days since the first symptom appeared. 
3. For the ICU level patient with severe to critical illness at least 20 days have passed since first diagnostic test, AND at least 24 hours without a fever of 100.5 or greater (without use of fever reducing meds), AND improvement in respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath).  

The above is based on available data that persons with mild to moderate COVID 19 remain infectious no longer than 10 days after onset of symptoms, and those persons with severe illness likely remain infectious no longer than 20 days after onset of symptoms.  Recovered people can continue to shed detectable virus in upper respiratory specimens for up to 3 months after onset of illness but in lower concentrations and infectiousness is unlikely.  Because of this we are relying on symptom-based rather than test-based strategies to determine who can come out of isolation. This is really important for families because once a patient is out of isolation, they can have one visitor per day. The importance of this can not be overstated. 

I will share more about a vaccine in my next COVID-19 post. For today, I have already exceeded my usual word limit. But not before I remind you all one more time of the vitally important trifecta of continuing to mask, maintain social distancing, and wash those hands.  In general, masks are not needed outside, unless there are 15 other people milling around looking at the same glorious view you are. If that's the case, mask up. 

You may already know this, but if you don't, let me share a few thoughts on masks - cloth masks should have 2 layers of washable, breathable fabric. Masks should completely cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly against the side of your face. Gators are not considered to be effective (I am seeing lots of these around). Masks with vents are not effective. Masks should be removed using ear loops, wash your hands after removing a mask and before you touch your face. Wash masks regularly and iron them after they dry. 

These are my perspectives on what is happening in my area, as a palliative care nurse, not an infectious disease specialist.  I believe they are applicable everywhere. Take what you need, leave the rest for later.

P.S.  Happy Friday everyone. 

P.S.S. Thank you Marilyn Parker for our masks which were the best looking, in all of Estes Park. 

a perfect destination in COVID times

Today just a bit about our perspectives on traveling in the midst of a pandemic. Where. Why. How. 

We had made plans to go to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in January, before COVID-19 changed the way the world operates.  So when it came time to decide if we were actually going - here is what we took into consideration.

To start, Colorado is not seeing a spike in numbers. At this time they are doing better than we are in Kansas. Not traveling to a "hot spot" seemed like it would be a reasonable thing to do. Also, a 10 hour drive is do-able, and not getting on a plane felt "safer".  We found the rest areas along the interstate in Kansas and Colorado to be pretty clean. All along the way at gas stations masks were required and people were complying. We brought along paper towels/napkins for door handles since many bathrooms these days don't have them, however most of the ones we stopped at did. 

Second, all of our activities were going to be out of doors. No museums, theaters, or big gatherings of people. Just a change of scenery sort of doing what we have been doing at home, but still a "get away". 

Third - we rented an Airbnb where we were by ourselves, self check in, no housekeeping (except Chris), no shared spaces with strangers. This also allowed us to do our own cooking, bring our groceries, and again limit exposure. We did stop at a grocery store for a few items that don't travel well, but we are used to that routine. We did a "contactless" pick-up of a pizza on the night we drove in to Estes Park (high marks to Anthony's Real New York pizza for ease of ordering and pick up, in addition to excellent flavor and seriously good crust).

At RMNP masks were required when around others and when not able to be socially distant - so on the shuttles to trail heads, in the visitor center, and when on a crowded trail. Again, compliance was very high. 

The National Parks are really our treasure. We have visited many through the years. This year, more than ever, we appreciate the ability to travel to them and enjoy the great out of doors. They are a perfect destination, in my opinion, in COVID times. 

P.S. Getting on line in advance of your trip to see if the park you are planning to visit has any special restrictions is a great idea. We made reservations on July 1st for the days we wanted to visit Rocky Mountain Park in August. I don't know if all parks are restricting visitors or not, but good to check. Forewarned is forearmed, as someone used to say.

don't trouble trouble until trouble troubles you

When I bought this "sea salt and water" candle a few weeks back, I didn't think about it as a balm for the house in the days of social isolation. But it is. Seriously wonderful aroma and the name makes me think of salt water rinses/gargles which are good for everything. Except, and let me be clear, it smells like the ocean, not gargled water, and I for sure am not gargling with it.

I love to light it first thing in the morning when it's still a little darkish out. 

Other things I have continued doing are regular walks, outside. Sky/cloud therapy is powerful stuff.

The daffodils will have to be replaced. I plan to go to the grocery store during "senior hours". Maybe someone will card me? Flowers are a necessity not a luxury.

Is everyone keeping some sort of journal to record these goings on? In future years I am pretty sure I will want to revisit what I thought it was important to capture about these current events.

Light the candle, take the walk, enjoy the flowers, write the thoughts, and in the words of the inimitable Marti Huff, shown below with her social distancing yardstick, "don't trouble trouble until trouble troubles you".

Well said. I believe in taking advice from 96 year old women that look this good. 

it's hard not to worry about the potential significance of any symptom

Every sniffle, sneeze, cough, and ache can be a cause for concern these days. To help you sort things out I am providing this helpful chart. It is not meant to replace a call to your primary care doctor but rather determine at a glance when to pick up the phone (or set it back down).

It's hard not to worry about the potential significance of any symptom. But an algorithm like this may prevent panic from setting in. 

let this be the reason you check all the expiration dates on your pantry goods

Some things that have happened this week include the following.

Sister's birthday. We intend to celebrate in high style when I go out there next week for Art Retreat #8 (more about that later). There may or may not be hootin' and hollering'.  There will be cake. Or some other birthday dessert. For sure. Pam and I will also sing Happy Birthday to her in perfect harmony.  

This poinsettia continues to shine and delight. Plants are complex and wondrous. 

Several things that were not photo worthy included getting a 20 year old crown that I cracked eating popcorn (darn the bad luck) replaced. Christmas decorations were returned to the basement and we bought some new pillows for the TV room. Back support is important. 

I finished listening to another installment of the Flavia de Luce series.  This is such delightful, easy, pleasant listening. So perfect for decompressing after a day of work. 

A lovely walk was taken on Thursday, when the temps were up to 60 degrees. The memory of it will be stored and relived if the expected snowstorm hits on Saturday. 

And finally, there was the exploded can of grapefruit segments in the pantry. Happily, Chris discovered it while I was at work and tended to the after effects. Who knew that a can of grapefruit segments with a pull top lid would expire after only being out of date for 5 years?

This is the photo Chris took after removing all the surrounding casualties and before serious cleaning began. Let this be the reason you check all the expiration dates on your pantry goods this weekend ... and purge accordingly. Clostridium botulinim is a powerful bacteria. 

2 whole peanuts to one piece of "corn"

Since we both know that we each have already begun to eat the delightful combination of candy corn and salty cocktail peanuts, known as "October crack", I decided to go ahead and post a photo of it today.

Because this ridiculous (and simultaneously cute) container only comes out once a year, it seems fair to give it a full month out of the cupboard before returning it to hibernation. Can you refer to an inanimate object as hibernating? 

My preferred ratio is at least 2 whole peanuts to one piece of "corn", but of course that is a personal matter. Since the candy is made up of 100% sugar, it definitely needs the salt to balance things out.

Chris, head researcher at Tall Tales Headquarters, told me today it was invented in the 1880's by George Renninger and was at one time called "chicken feed".  I have included these facts here in case you ever find yourself in need of such knowledge while participating in a cut-throat trivia challenge.  

I don't know where they get their information

In the event that you might have missed it, consider this your notification that "mustard colored clothing season" is officially upon us. 

Nancy and Hailey want you to know that it begins the minute "white pant wearing season" is over and runs right up until 2 weeks before it's time to get your easter bonnets out.  I don't know where they get their information, but I don't question it. Neither should you.  

it is important not to take or disturb anything you find in the fairy forest

One of my nieces, stumbled upon the Fairy Forest in Breckenridge, while out on a walk, and not really looking for it.  As soon as she mentioned it, my ears perked up. Of course I had to go.  To see my distant cousins. Fairy cousins. That I haven't seen in decades.  

So here is the deal. The fairy forest is a little tricky to find. There are no coordinates or addresses to put in your GPS. But if you are determined, do not give up easily, and run across a nice local (preferably over 65), she might guide you there. That is what happened to me. 

You will wander through paths, ford streams, climb rickety stairs, cross 3 bridges, and stay right at the reservoir... then you will know you are close.

There are all manner of abodes in the fairy forest.

As well as other playful signs that fairies are in residence here.  

It is important not to take or disturb anything you find in the fairy forest. Although, additions are welcome. 

I might have seen a scout or two along the trail.  Sentries. On the lookout for intruders in the fairy forest. They can tell instinctively if you don't belong and lead you astray.

I would like to tell you exactly how to get there. But cannot. All I can say is start under the snowflake ski lift, cross your fingers, be patient, keep your eyes peeled for signs, and if you see a really kind woman walking 2 white dogs ask her if you are on the right track.  If you are lucky, she will lead you there. 

gifts you may not have considered

With the intent of offering useful advice for your Christmas shopping lists, I present today, gift ideas you may not have considered.  But should.  

Fancy baubles for setting about, or a warm blanket for cuddling under, from Trapp and Company.  

A completely non-functional super cute party purse and a book that may tell you how to carry it, or maximize any other accessories you have been wondering how to use.  Both from the Webster House.

A selection of red kitchen utensils or some Fiestaware from Pryde's.

Bottle brush Christmas trees, cups, cool vases, or glitzy pearl necklaces from Stuff in Brookside.  While you are at Stuff you MUST go into the Dime Store and just walk through.  Simply for the experience.  It's a neat old building with an amazing array of things.  

Yes, it's easier to order presents on-line and let someone else do the wrapping and shipping, but it sure is fun to go into all these unique, interesting, fun, places to shop. Especially at Christmas.  

good feng shui

When the bourbon bottle is too pretty to throw away, my recommendation is to cut some of whatever flowering bush or tree is doing it's thing right now and bring it indoors.  Three stems is best.

This is called zen decorating that relies on re-cycling to create good feng shui.  

It's a theory founded on very solid science.  In the Universe of Carol.

trying to decide which one of these to eat first

Daffodils may be my favorite way to celebrate Spring.  But strawberries are an extremely close second. 

Nothing gets you ready for all the beckoning flavors of spring like a strawberry.  Even if it's a store bought one.

It will be at least another month or so before the locally grown ones are ready.    These were a very reasonable stand in.  

Last year I bought a jar of strawberry jam at the farmers market.  I used it all up in the last month as topping for my oatmeal instead of honey or brown sugar.  This year I will buy two jars for the winter.  Maybe three. 

But right now I am otherwise occupied trying to decide which one of these to eat first.   Such a nice dilemma to have.

with the help of Abraham Lincoln and a hot glue gun

 I love setting up the Pygmy forest every year at Christmas.

However, I dislike how the trees wobble on their cork trunks, and regularly fall off the table and tins and candlesticks I stand them on.

This weekend we solved that problem with the help of Abraham Lincoln and a hot glue gun.

Oh I love a stable foundation.

Chris prepared 4 extra trunks for me.  Reforestation must be undertaken on an annual basis.  This is a great way to use up scrap yarn, and the perfect meditation while sipping on hot cocoa on Christmas morning.  

 If you want to start your own forest, a link to the free pattern is below.  

Pint Sized Pines

lollygag

I love words and subscribe to the Merriam-Webster “Word of the Day”.  Today’s word is one of my favorites.  Lollygag.  Please let this serve as your reminder over the next week to be spending time idly, aimlessly, or foolishly.   

your part in the current opioid crisis

The other day when organizing cupboards in the kitchen, I found these.

Four bottles of hydrocodone dating back as far as 2007.  All for oral surgeries Chris has had since that time.  Just for kicks I opened each bottle and counted.  There are a total of 54 tablets.  If you have bottles like this hanging around, let me do a quick Public Service Announcement.  October 28th is national Take Back Day 2017.  The goal of this day is to get opioids and other medications out of the general circulation, where they may do harm if taken by someone they were not prescribed for. 

I used to think it was wasteful to get rid of medications that we might "need" at some future time.  The truth is, if I am having enough pain to need to take an opioid, I likely need to go to a health care provider to see what's wrong.  

If you are wondering what your part is in the current opioid crisis in this country, it is this.  Be responsible with these medications.  Even if you think no one is going to break into your house and take them, or, that no one who would be in your house would go looking for them, and take them.   If you have recovered from the injury/illness for which they were prescribed, get them out of the general circulation. 

Here's what you do.  Go to this website.  Put in your zip code.  You will be directed to sites in your geographic area where you can safely turn in any medication you are no longer using.  It's that easy.   

I wanted to touch them

If you live in the area, and are planning to come to Lawrence for anything before Thanksgiving, here is something you should check out. 

On the west campus, at the Dole Institute, there is an exhibit that highlights the role of the wives of soldiers who were missing or prisoners during the Vietnam war. 

It's a small exhibit, but powerful and informative. 

It is worth the 30-45 minutes it takes to go through and read and listen. 

This is the first time I have been in the Dole Institute.  It's an impressive bit of architecture. 

It also happens to house two pieces of the World Trade Center.  I wish they hadn't been enclosed in glass.  I wanted to touch them. 

filled with ideas that lead to more ideas

You all likely already know about taproot magazine, but in case you are like me, and were not familiar with "the magazine for makers, doers, and dreamers" here is your heads up. 

It was a link to an article about a "journal cowl" that made me go and check it out.  I am glad I did.  The paper is lovely to run your hands over, the artwork (photography and illustrations) so beautiful to look at.

I didn't know I needed to make a fennel broth.  Until now. 

Sister we will be making masks in July.  You will be a fox and I will be a squirrel. 

Just looking at the pictures makes me happy.  But there is also the writing.  The ideas.  Each of the issues I have looked through is filled with ideas that lead to more ideas. 

These will be savored.  Read and re-read.  As for that journal cowl that led me here in the first place?  I think it will be the perfect project for the Norwegian Steamer excursion with my sister when we are in our 70's, 

 

my idea of a darn fine weekend

 Saturday started with a fresh bag of Sumatra beans and ended with slices of cara-cara orange floating in a perfect cosmo.

In between those things was the discovery of the self-cleaning button on my iron.

Which I used (after googling a video) for the first time - ever!  They recommend every two weeks.  Say what?

There was also some quilt washing while the sun shown and the wind blew.

A flash back to 1974 and the Howard Air Force Base Catholic church folk choir.  I am happy to report I still remember the lyrics to each and every song. 

Important mailings were attended to.

I figured out how to change the sole on my walking foot AND attach a seam guide.  Marilyn, have I told you how GLAD I am that you told me to get a Bernina?  In my mind I think I can do anything with this machine. 

And, last but not least, went through 2 full bobbins as progress continues with the quilting. 

Oh and we also watched Manchester by the Sea (loved it) and Hell or High Water (liked it). 

My idea of a darn fine weekend. 

you've got a friend in me

In the event that you have not seen this, and because it should not be missed,  and because I have embedded it for ease of viewing. 

You are so welcome. 

Cut, paste, stamp, cut, tape, move, tape some more

This week I pulled out all manner of scraps and bits of papers and cards and quirky handmade labels (from sister) and old calendars and wrapping paper (from Pam) and anything I looked at that I liked.  That could be cut.

There was lots of stuff.

I advise you not to think too much about it or you could get caught in a protracted planning phase.  Like I was.

The base for my planner/calendar is a 4 x 5 1/2 heavy paper thing I bought at Paper Source.   This format worked out so well in 2016 that I saw no reason not to repeat it. 

There is not much that can not be made better by a good hour or so of cutting and pasting and taping.

I printed out some photos of 2016 adventures to include.

At the very last minute I remembered some of Lisa Hoffman's stickers and that also made me think to pull out some old rubber stamps. 

Before you know it, I was done.  Cut, paste, stamp, cut, tape, move, tape some more. 

Which just goes to show you that I can flat out finish something, if I put my mind to it.

the cathedral of the plains

On our trip out to Quinter and Wakeeney Kansas this past weekend, we took advantage of the opportunity to see a few of the "8 Wonders of Kansas".   Those places you always mean to get to but somehow never do.  

This is the Basilica of St. Fidelis and is commonly known as "The Cathedral of the Plains".   Construction was begun in 1908 and the exterior is made of native limestone which was quarried from the area.  No lifts or power tools were used in it's construction. 

The statue below Volga German Family was sculpted by Pete Felten in 1976. 

I belong to the contingent of people who love stained glass windows, the faint scent of incense, and I can not pass up an opportunity to light a candle for someone.   Sometimes three someones. 

Equally as interesting to me were the iron crosses in the St. Fidelis cemetery.   These are apparently a traditional grave marker among Germans from Russia.  The immigrants in the Victoria Kansas area were known as Volga-Germans.  I also read that these markers were a matter of practicality because wooden crosses would not withstand the winds and weather out on the plains. 

I have never seen grave markers like this before.  Unique and beautiful.  If any of you have further information about them, please share in the comments.  We did not make it into the parish office and I am kicking myself for this because I see in the brochure I picked up in the vestibule, there is an item for sale in there I certainly need.  The parish cookbook - Towers of Heavenly Recipes.  I am going to go on line and try to order it.  Fear not.  I intend to share. 

how to stick a needle and thread all the way through those big purple pumpkins

Last week I got together with my friend Mary Joan so we could make stuffed pumpkins.  And boy, did we make some pumpkins. 

I am not sure why we decided to make purple ones.  Except for the fact that I had some purple velvet from who knows what project and it seemed like a good way to use it.  And if your are going to make something purple you might as well make it BIG.

We were concentrating too much for me to take a lot of photos during the process.  If you google making stuffed pumpkins you will find lots of methods.  We used a combination of all of them.  For the stuffing we used the insides of pillows, plastic pellets, and beans.  Sometimes all 3 in one.  We were experimenting.  I can't say that any one is better than another.  

This one above might be the favorite one that I made.  Or it could be the little bitty taffeta one below. 

I think I like this one best of all the one's that Joan did.

But it's hard to make up my mind for sure.  I like all the ones below just as well. 

The bottom line is these were completely do-able and very fun.  Did I mention we did them at Joan's house and she made a pumpkin dump cake for a mid-morning pick me up and then chicken salad croissant sandwiches for lunch? 

Long after these pumpkins have faded away I will remember Mary Joan and I trying to figure out how to stick a needle and thread all the way through those big purple pumpkins AND be able to get it through to the other side.  Needle nose pliers are helpful. 

It's hard to fully explain the complete enjoyment of a crafting adventure with a dear friend.   But if you have experienced it, you now what I mean. 

living fully while understanding that we have more years behind us than we do ahead

If you are between the ages of 45 and 80, or anywhere close to that range, you might enjoy reading this book.   I renewed it from the library twice.  When I tried a third time I was unsuccessful because somebody was waiting for it.  This is a book you want to read slowly.  Take some time to digest.  Figure out if there are things you might want to try.  I am not a huge reader of non-fiction books.  But this will go down as one of my most enjoyable for 2016.   

I wouldn't exactly call it an instruction manual.   But it offers some practical, well researched, strategies for those of us who want to keep living fully while understanding that we have more years behind us than we do ahead.  Which isn't always easy.

leaving two for a kindred spirit in serious need

Attention all pumpkin lovers.  It is my duty to inform you that something is going on with the availability of canned pumpkin.  At least in my town.  To my credit, last night, I did NOT bite off the head of the assistant store manager when he informed me "there was a problem with the shipment", AFTER I had walked up and down every aisle in the store looking for it before I asked.  Young men apparently do not understand that giving that response to a woman looking forward to her first pumpkin baking experience of the season is on par with telling an addict in need of a fix they are "SOL".  In other words... dangerous. 

This morning, after a good nights sleep, I got up early and resumed the hunt.  I went to another store, where they had a note indicating there was a problem with their shipment to save me from walking all over and working myself into a frenzy.  AND, I did find 6 cans of a store brand right next to the empty spot for the Libby's canned pumpkin.  Because I was feeling generous, I only bought four cans.  Leaving two for a kindred spirit in serious need of pumpkin. 

while decidedly non-technical, is certainly enthusiastic

 It will be important as you read this post to know that I have no formal training in architecture and little knowledge of architectural styles.  That will not stop me from throwing around a few terms as I show you some of the buildings we wandered by in Stockholm.  

Whether they were the old wooden buildings, Gustavian Empire style, Neo Gothic, Venetian Renaissance, Neo Classicism, or Medieval military, I would just like to say that to me they were all super cool.  Which, while decidedly non-technical, is certainly über enthusiastic.  Which we absolutely were.

hoping one of you can give me some help on a matter of great importance

Today's post is the first in this new category called "useful information".   Because I want to be helpful.  So, when I learn something that is life changing, or may be of some slight assistance in your everyday life, you will be able to easily locate it on the blog.   

My first tip today is in the category of slight assistance.  Many years ago I received a copper watering pot from a dear friend.  It remains one of the best gifts ever.   It doesn't leak and get water all over the rug and table when I am watering my houseplants.   I like it so much that I decided I needed another one for the plants upstairs.  The place it came from is long gone, but Chris located one on ebay for me and it arrived this week.  It needed to be cleaned. 

 A thorough investigation of copper cleaning methods ensued and while I was debating using lemon or vinegar someone said "why don't you just use the Bar Keepers Friend?"  I decided to do a cleaning comparison to save you the trouble.

I started with the Bar Keepers Friend and it was so easy I never got to the lemon/salt method.   Which leads to useful information tip #1 - Save your lemons for garnishing drinks.  Use Bar Keepers Friend to clean copper. 

Tip #2 is in the life changing category.  I am so very sorry it has taken me this long to appreciate the sheer pleasure that are flannel lined jeans.  In case you are like me and have never tried them before, and you live in a cold climate, GET SOME.  I ordered 1 pair and liked them so much I ordered another pair so I would have something to wear when pair number 1 was in the washer. 

In exchange for those two tips I am hoping one of you can give me some help on a matter of great importance.  What is the best way to remove these stems intact so I can use them next year when I attempt to make velvet pumpkins with dried stems?  Thank you in advance.