Busy First Friday of the New Year

The Calm before the Storm

A little bee, on my rosemary plant, doing what bees do. 

We’re in a flood watch until 10 PM tonight, accompanied by a high-wind advisory, which is quite typical for an Upper Northern California winter rainy season! Right now, my husband is outside, checking the house to make sure we don't float away.

Today, our roofers came by to inspect our roof after last week's severe storm, which revealed leaks in our garage. They identified a few missing shingles and some bent by the fierce winds. I am truly thankful for the service they provided and for a good warranty on the roof. 

We will have to address the sheet rock in the garage - the buckling in some places once the spring comes. It's not anything major. 

I had to look as if I was doing something, too, so I walked around the yard - it is still muddy, swampy, and that sump pump is still pumping sump.  We have to leave it on 24/7, 365 days a year, because of all the drainage from the hill. 

The marguerite daisies love this time of the year! They are just a bush in the summer. 

Oops, forgot to bring in some of the outside Christmas stuff - 

We packed up the tree the other day. Before my husband crammed it back into the box, I told him to leave off a third of the lower branches. Voila! We went from a 7.5-foot tree to a cute little 4.5-foot shrub. Unless I change my mind, which I have been known to do, we're downsizing to a smaller tree next year!

My husband wanted to organize all the ornaments into categories...

So I let him do that!

I have a huge box to donate. I hadn't realized that just by taking down all the Christmas stuff, I was also doing some pre-spring cleaning! 

This is the last of it. 

I held on to some wintery decor.  Small naked trees and pinecones...oh my!

Today I washed all Laydee's bedding - 

While grocery shopping, I noticed people smiling and being kind...I do live in a friendly community, but it did seem extra - maybe a New Year's resolution and trying to turn over a new leaf for the new year, and maybe, just perhaps, kindness is trending for 2026.

Wouldn't that be nice? 

Then some people are challenging.  They can frustrate us, but we'll always have those kinds of people, or else how would we learn patience, self-control, and grace? 

Today, Navy stopped by. He mentioned they’d purchased new dining chairs and offered me some of their lovely older black wooden ones. I only need two chairs. I like an eclectic look, so the two black chairs would be at either end, with my chairs in the middle. I’m excited to check them out, as many of you know how much I enjoy repurposing other people's stuff. He also has some wood available. 

That's it for me. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. The first weekend of 2026. Make it memorable. 

Debby
 

Whadda Week

 

One morning this week, as I was watering, an unsettling sensation crept over me—a feeling as though I were being watched,  just out of the corner of my eye. Glancing over, I noticed a clever disguise camouflaging a hole in the fence. 

 Honestly, I’m starting to really like it!

🫧One and a Two and a Three...🫧

On Wednesday, I finally went to my long-awaited cardiologist appointment, which I had been looking forward to since my unsettling ER visit on May 9. Although I thought my issues were just GERD, the doctors stressed the importance of caution, especially for women.

yeah yeah yeah. 

To my surprise, they scheduled me for a nuclear stress test the very next morning. A couple of friends informed me about the radioactive substance they inject into the veins, which made me anxious. And of course, everything you read online is to scare you; however, I found the procedure and technology fascinating once the technician explained it. My fear of the unknown had caused my anxiety to get the best of me but the technician's kindness helped ease my nerves.

And the good news - I am not even glowing...

This morning, I had my third appointment to set up a heart monitor, which I’ll wear for 14 days. I can remove it for 90 minutes each day to charge it, making showering easier. I appreciate that I can communicate with the technician if I feel anything unusual. While the gadget might become irritating, I’m kinda- sorta enjoying the novelty of it.

Looking ahead, they scheduled an ECHO in August, followed by the moment of truth a few weeks after that. 

Apparently this morning, we had a 3.6 magnitude earthquake that struck at 3:57 a.m. We slept through it. It was described as a sudden jolt then a crashing sound. Foodie said it woke him up. The epicenter was west Redding near my church. I didn’t even know we had any fault lines here. I know any seismic activity is usually from the volcanic activity of Mt Lassen. 

Foodie and I started our Friday with my doctor’s visit, then went to the butcher, where the smell of grilled meat filled the air. They were getting ready for the lunch crowd - tri- tip steak sandwiches! After running some errands, including dropping off his rent, we headed to the grocery store. Prices are fluctuating, with cereal now over $5, but steady egg prices, finally. 

While I heard the news of dropping gas prices elsewhere, in the country we’re looking at an increase in California gas tax rising to nearly 0.65 per gallon starting July 1. So we’re looking at $6.00 a gallon and more when they close that second gas refinery in SoCal.  I’m grateful that we can still weather the times. We still have to watch it but we’re fine. 

I had initially planned to host Fourth of July celebrations at our home, but Navy and Sara offered to host instead, which I’m perfectly fine with. After all, it’s the time spent together that truly matters.

The Heat is on… 

Last weekend, a brisk cold front swept through, bringing a refreshing chill that was quite a contrast to our typical summer temperatures. However, this week, the sun is shining bright and our familiar summer weather is returning full force.

I found the ombre effect on the sun faded patio curtain to be attractive. 

This weekend, we’re likely going to keep things low-key. Maybe drive up to the snow in Lassen.  The thought of wearing this monitor in the sweltering heat just doesn’t sound appealing to me, unless it's early morning. 

That’s all I have for you, as I close up shop this Friday. Take care and have a beautiful weekend sharing it with those you love. 

The Last May Friday

This morning, I woke before dawn, enjoying the quiet on the patio with a hot  cup of coffee. The morning air was warmer than a month ago - a gentle breeze rustling the outdoor drapery.

Two Ravens in the Redwood Trees of our neighbor's yard enjoy playing with Laydee. They cackle as Laydee tries to chase them, hovering above like they're laughing at her. We named them Heckle and Jeckle, despite knowing the cartoon H & J were actually magpies.

Did you watch Heckle and Jeckle as a child? 

ANYWAY...

We chatted over coffee, planning our day, but often we get sidetracked with yard projects we want to do.  As the sun rose and the air warmed, I decided to get out early. My husband planned to work on the brickwork in the rocky garden in front while it was in the shade - 

Yesterday, he finished painting the church steps and later noticed a bird had left blue droppings on the last step, likely from eating nearby wild berries on the property. 

So, I got up and out and went to the Deli and bought my...

freshly sliced garlic herb chicken breast for sandwiches and pastrami for our lunches. The woman behind the counter, I see all the time. So, as we talked about the heat, she shared that she and her husband live in a nice van on their property after their home was burned down by the Carr fire in 2018. Many people, with paid-off homes, couldn’t afford homeowners' insurance and chose to take the risk. She says she enjoys her simpler life, mentioning they don’t have air conditioning but do have a nice built-in swimming pool to cool off in, as well as quite a bit of property. The fire didn't destroy the pool.  At around my age (71) or older, she appeared happy and looked forward to swimming after work.

Oh, how I love to swim...

Source: Google Maps

I made my way to Happy Valley to Teen Challenge, a local organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives. 

I stopped by the little farm stand that I enjoy. I love their country home.

The Farmer's wife is rarely there when I arrive—always busy with baking, sewing, or tending to animals. I sense she’s an introvert like me, appreciating solitude. When we do meet, she’s warm and friendly. This morning, I noticed her stand was stocked with delightful treats, but I couldn’t find the pay container. While the honor system is honored, I was hesitant to buy without it, I didn't want to overlook it and feel awful later. So I didn't make a purchase. 

At this moment, there is an abundance of freshly baked bread and aromatic goat's milk soaps.

I've bought these before - very good!

Her displays exude a warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with a charming sense of comfort and homey-ness.

Charming in its simplicity, yet undeniably adorable.

Throughout the winter months, she was crafting these bowl covers. With every stitch, she transforms simple pieces of cloth into charming, protective covers to sell.  

Observe the item she has nestled in the corner. 

I have one, do you?

UPDATE ON Laydee

I wish I could say that Laydee's hips and tail end are showing signs of improvement, but unfortunately, they are not. This was a difficult month for her - Yet, she remains a trooper, gracefully adapting to her circumstances. Her disability bothers me far more than it seems to affect her. At least the injection provides reassurance that she is not having pain. She's just stiff, and sometimes her back legs give out on her. Remarkably, at 12 years old, she shows no signs of greying; her bright, expressive eyes still sparkle with life, and she exhibits no visible distress. 

Trust me, I keep a vigilant watch over her well-being.

When we eventually settle into the cozy living room, Laydee strides over to her toy box with an unmistakable purpose. She doesn't simply grab the toy that happens to be on top; instead, she knows precisely what she wants. With an endearing determination, she digs through the jumble, nudging aside various toys until she unearths the cherished Christmas Hippo, which still emits a cheerful squeak. I can't help but smile at her enthusiasm. It’s fascinating how each day brings a new treasure for her to discover. 

Animals never cease to amaze me.

I am embracing every moment with her - I have always adored her magnificent paws. And the way she crosses them, so elegantly "Laydee-like."

SO, what weekend plans do you have? We'll play it by ear. Supposed to be another hot one, so anything we do, we'll get up and out early and chill in the afternoon. 

Be Blessed

Debby

Crabby Old Man Day

Happy end of January! 

This month sure flew by for me! 

This morning began with shopping, and today was 

"Crabby Old Man" Day at the grocery store!

I've not ever seen so many old men with grumpy faces and rude attitudes in one place! Just mean and ornery.

 I was trying to reach a shelf. I smiled (I always smile) and said, "Excuse me," 

The crabby old man deliberately pushed his cart further into the aisle, making it more difficult for me.

 I said, "Excuse me," again 

but he just stared at me with a stubborn face. 

Finally, his wife told him,  "Stop being so mean!"

 At that point, she moved his cart aside and then he told his wife,  

"I couldn't hear her," 

 "Oh, stop with the you-can't-hear-excuse, old man. Do you even have your hearing aids on?"

He grunted and they moved along. 

Yikes. 

There were crabby old men in the line - crabby old men in the parking lot. Here a crabby man, there a crabby man...

I couldn't wait to get home to my nice husband. I sure hope he doesn't get that way when he becomes that age. 

Today marks our first rainy day in nearly four weeks, which may have contributed to some crabbiness among the old men in town. The temperature has dropped to 47 degrees, indicating a shift in weather patterns as we transition into this time of year where daily high and low temperatures are quite similar. Currently, the low is recorded at 42 degrees.

Snow is falling in McCloud, Mount Shasta, and Dunsmuir, causing big rig trucks to be backed up for miles. The hope for a possible snow event fills us with excitement! It would be a moment of beauty, a day that brings delight to children, joy to dogs, and warmth to hearts like mine.

Today, I visited my veterinarian to pick up medication for my dog, Laydee, and learned they will close permanently on February 15. I needed to ensure that Laydee's and Susie's medical records were transferred to another local veterinary practice. Over 17 years, we’ve taken three cats and three dogs to this clinic, which provided excellent care, but they struggled to recover since the shutdown.

Plus, they had the best weather thermometer, which was convenient as I would drive past to the market. 

Well, I don't know about you, but I'm ready to say goodbye to January 2025 -

GOODBYE! 

See you in February!

Debby

 

Saturday's Catch up Post

 

You’re all so sharp—I knew you’d figure it out! Just having a little fun with you all. Keep those amazing brains working, huh? 

Happy Saturday! 

I will do some catching up with all of you about the last couple of days.

On Friday, my husband and his friend Patrick traveled to the college to set up their Friends of Israel table.  

With prayer surrounding them, they experienced a remarkable absence of confrontations—only positivity prevailed, and they were warmly welcomed by everyone who approached the table.

In addition to the Community College, we are blessed to have two Christian colleges in our midst. While we're still awaiting a response from Simpson, we are excited about Shasta Bible College. One of the professors visited their table and graciously invited my husband and Patrick to share their insights with students during Wednesday's Chapel on occasion.

How cool is that? 

It is inspiring to see many denominations striving to overturn the years, or even centuries, of replacement theology.

I went out with my son, Foodie, in the morning, which is always a nice visit. 

When I was alone, I stopped at a funky place that had a lot of metal art and sculptures I liked.

And these unique bird baths - 

This is my favorite. 

I visited the little market to check on the offerings at the farmer's stand. The farmer's wife informed me that her husband was currently  "ripping" the ground. This process is essential for loosening the soil, which improves its quality and prepares it for planting.

Heck, I'm a city girl - I had no idea. 

The dog was enjoying the freshly turned earth, relishing the cool, moist soil beneath his paws. 

On the farm, there’s always a task waiting to be tackled, particularly when the sun is out and the weather cooperates. 

I admire her unique and eclectic style rather than perfectly manicured yards. 

I love how she can turn just about anything into a container.

Amazing the pumpkins are still remaining intact and in good condition.

I've always wanted to try this... she's got a few "flower beds."

Spotted this heron...

Looks like she’s been working hard at her little stand. She’s got goats milk soap with blackberry sage and lavender scents.

4 berry Jams left 

Heart glass-shaped bath salts with dried roses and lavender grown on their farm.  

A sweet little Valentine's gift...

What an inspiring woman!

I think I mentioned once that she grew up on a dairy farm and has never left the farm life. 

I don’t get why I put myself in these situations. I had no cash at all! They go by the honor system, but I’d rather just come back with cash and buy more. I believe the honor system is great for situations like when you might be short a dollar or so. It’s more about helping each other out rather than just using it as a way to take things without paying.

This is Fire cider

This particular remedy seems to strengthen the immune system and can help prevent ailments commonly associated with cold weather. Its flavor is unique. Additionally, it has a potent aroma that some might describe as off-putting or pungent. 

I came home and got ready with my husband to go out to eat with Navy and his wife at my favorite Mexican restaurant, which was packed and loud. We usually dine out midweek, so I had to use my outside voice to talk. The food was delicious, and we had a great time. The lively, boisterous atmosphere created an energetic vibe that made the evening enjoyable.

It's a little after 5 pm and time for me to rustle something up for dinner. 

Enjoy your evening and I'll see you soon. 

Debby