Getting stuff done in February 2025
posted January 31, 2025 11:45 AM RSS | iCal | +googleCal
Fri February 28 at 8:00 PM
Following on from January's thread. Intended as a space to support ourselves and each other in getting things done, whatever that means to you. Decluttering, organising, cleaning, admin, making progress on projects. You are welcome to post about art and craft projects too - basically anything, as long as it's some sort of thing, concrete or abstract, that you are doing or trying to do.
My own progress was bumpy as well!
Thanks for making this shiny new thread. I think I'll stick with posting one inside thing, one outside thing, and one life admin thing. Some (productive) days it'll just be a highlight, other days it will be the one tiny thing I think I did in that category, but... who will know? Hah!
posted by inexorably_forward at 5:55 PM on January 31 [5 favorites]
Thanks for making this shiny new thread. I think I'll stick with posting one inside thing, one outside thing, and one life admin thing. Some (productive) days it'll just be a highlight, other days it will be the one tiny thing I think I did in that category, but... who will know? Hah!
posted by inexorably_forward at 5:55 PM on January 31 [5 favorites]
1st Feb:
Inside: Tidying up. Having a party tonight!
Outside: Pulled a handful of weeds.
Life admin: Gathered more information and responded to a query about the VIPAWIHBP (that's Very Important Paperwork About Which I Have Been Procrastinating, for those not following along from the previous thread).
posted by inexorably_forward at 6:12 PM on January 31 [4 favorites]
Inside: Tidying up. Having a party tonight!
Outside: Pulled a handful of weeds.
Life admin: Gathered more information and responded to a query about the VIPAWIHBP (that's Very Important Paperwork About Which I Have Been Procrastinating, for those not following along from the previous thread).
posted by inexorably_forward at 6:12 PM on January 31 [4 favorites]
The January thread closed rather abruptly on the 31st; apologies to anyone who wanted to update there. This was, I think, because I had put the event date as the 1st. I've put this one as the end of the month, and asked mods whether this is correct - I don't think IRL has the concept of an ongoing event.
posted by paduasoy at 1:16 AM on February 1 [6 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 1:16 AM on February 1 [6 favorites]
Good party at my place last night... wish y'all could have been here... but the kitchen's pretty much a wreck now! Fortunately for me a party guest did a round of dishes at some point, and someone must have gathered up most of the cups and glasses, so it could be much worse.
posted by inexorably_forward at 12:23 PM on February 1 [8 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 12:23 PM on February 1 [8 favorites]
Didn't get all of the long list of chores completed today, but did do quite a bit - dishwasher and washing loads, made pasta salad to take to niece at university, supported other niece with college work, wrote up some more of local history project, tidied bedroom, changed bed, paid a bill, made stock, sat with cat for a bit, looked up about five bags' worth of books on ebay and separated them into "worth trying to sell online" versus donate to charity. Wanted to do crafting and read something meaty, but didn't manage those.
Niece introduced me to an app called Focus Traveller, which you set going whilst you are working on a task, and an avatar climbs a hill whilst you're doing it. I'm not sure I've got it set up correctly, though, as I haven't worked out either how to set a length of time for the task or to end the task. Will ask niece tomorrow.
posted by paduasoy at 2:59 PM on February 1 [6 favorites]
Niece introduced me to an app called Focus Traveller, which you set going whilst you are working on a task, and an avatar climbs a hill whilst you're doing it. I'm not sure I've got it set up correctly, though, as I haven't worked out either how to set a length of time for the task or to end the task. Will ask niece tomorrow.
posted by paduasoy at 2:59 PM on February 1 [6 favorites]
Sounds rather sisyphean.
posted by inexorably_forward at 5:54 PM on February 1 [4 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 5:54 PM on February 1 [4 favorites]
I am happy to see the February thread! Thank you, paduasoy. I quite enjoyed the tally from February but don’t feel obligated, please.
I’m glad your party was enjoyable, inexorably_forward, dishes or no dishes.
Today was exciting, in a GSD way
One bag of clothing donations to Goodwill
Three plastic bags/carrier bags full of recyclable plastic to the store which accepts same
Nine boxes of books donated to the local library
There is now much more open floor space in the basement.
I also sorted out more bags and boxes of odds and ends (let’s say four), and two file drawers of paperwork. These are from areas that are carpeted. (We plan to replace the carpet this spring, so clearing out any cupboards/bookshelves/filing cabinets/any item which rests upon carpeting and contains stuff is supposed to make the carpet replacement easier, or so I’m told.)
Bonus: I found some photos which I thought had disappeared, and emptied a small basket of ancient junk. Said small basket is now on the bedside table corralling various small items which looks nicer and feels tidier.
I also went for a walk and made soup and it was a very nice Saturday.
posted by kyraU2 at 8:03 PM on February 1 [8 favorites]
I’m glad your party was enjoyable, inexorably_forward, dishes or no dishes.
Today was exciting, in a GSD way
One bag of clothing donations to Goodwill
Three plastic bags/carrier bags full of recyclable plastic to the store which accepts same
Nine boxes of books donated to the local library
There is now much more open floor space in the basement.
I also sorted out more bags and boxes of odds and ends (let’s say four), and two file drawers of paperwork. These are from areas that are carpeted. (We plan to replace the carpet this spring, so clearing out any cupboards/bookshelves/filing cabinets/any item which rests upon carpeting and contains stuff is supposed to make the carpet replacement easier, or so I’m told.)
Bonus: I found some photos which I thought had disappeared, and emptied a small basket of ancient junk. Said small basket is now on the bedside table corralling various small items which looks nicer and feels tidier.
I also went for a walk and made soup and it was a very nice Saturday.
posted by kyraU2 at 8:03 PM on February 1 [8 favorites]
I dropped several bags off at the thrift store and mailed a pair of shoes that I successfully sold online.
I have also decided that in the midst of all of this....crap....in the world right now that what I need most is another cat, so I'm adopting another cat! Which means I need to set up my office for a cat isolation room/landing space which means I need to clear out a lot of the junk I am currently storing in there. So this is the best possible kick in the butt to get that room decluttered.
posted by gingerbeer at 9:31 PM on February 1 [10 favorites]
I have also decided that in the midst of all of this....crap....in the world right now that what I need most is another cat, so I'm adopting another cat! Which means I need to set up my office for a cat isolation room/landing space which means I need to clear out a lot of the junk I am currently storing in there. So this is the best possible kick in the butt to get that room decluttered.
posted by gingerbeer at 9:31 PM on February 1 [10 favorites]
Yay new thread!
gingerbeer: keep us posted on the new cat, this is vitally important
Jan 31 / Feb 1:
- Repaired some drywall that the plumbers had to tear out. Painting today hopefully.
posted by mmoncur at 3:28 AM on February 2 [4 favorites]
gingerbeer: keep us posted on the new cat, this is vitally important
Jan 31 / Feb 1:
- Repaired some drywall that the plumbers had to tear out. Painting today hopefully.
posted by mmoncur at 3:28 AM on February 2 [4 favorites]
2nd Feb:
Inside: Cleaned up from party.
Outside: Cleaned up from party.
Life admin: Contacted party guests about water bottle and tea towel that were left here, and associated them with the correct people.
Heh, it sounds as if it must have been quite the rager... really only about a dozen people. But no shortage of food & drink!
posted by inexorably_forward at 5:39 AM on February 2 [5 favorites]
Inside: Cleaned up from party.
Outside: Cleaned up from party.
Life admin: Contacted party guests about water bottle and tea towel that were left here, and associated them with the correct people.
Heh, it sounds as if it must have been quite the rager... really only about a dozen people. But no shortage of food & drink!
posted by inexorably_forward at 5:39 AM on February 2 [5 favorites]
Agreed re new cat!
Not got a huge amount done today as was out visiting niece. Did make chocolate banana bread to take for her. Also posted parcel, returning shoes for hopefully better-fitting shoes. Continued knitting grey scarf and worked on crocheted blanket - the latter is this one, was feeling in need of a project with some colour. Went to an exhibition on divination which was mildly interesting (did not know that spider or crab divination is a thing).
posted by paduasoy at 11:50 AM on February 2 [3 favorites]
Not got a huge amount done today as was out visiting niece. Did make chocolate banana bread to take for her. Also posted parcel, returning shoes for hopefully better-fitting shoes. Continued knitting grey scarf and worked on crocheted blanket - the latter is this one, was feeling in need of a project with some colour. Went to an exhibition on divination which was mildly interesting (did not know that spider or crab divination is a thing).
posted by paduasoy at 11:50 AM on February 2 [3 favorites]
New kitten will be arriving on Friday. I just had a zoom chat with him and his foster mom. Time to get the room cleared out and cat ready!
posted by gingerbeer at 12:22 PM on February 2 [7 favorites]
posted by gingerbeer at 12:22 PM on February 2 [7 favorites]
Oh, gingerbeer, so cute! My late boy snowshoe’s name was Woody!
posted by jgirl at 12:28 PM on February 2 [2 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 12:28 PM on February 2 [2 favorites]
I've decided his full name is Woody Guthrie, b/c my other two cats are named after performers, and we all need some Woody Guthrie energy around now.
posted by gingerbeer at 12:59 PM on February 2 [6 favorites]
posted by gingerbeer at 12:59 PM on February 2 [6 favorites]
My very humble opinion is that baking, visiting, crocheting, and getting a parcel out of the house count for something!
I feel curious about crab divination.
I’m delighted to hear about Woody Guthrie!
Sorted through more filing drawers/piles of paperwork. Good thing the recycling bin pick-up is tomorrow. The task does not get easier, but it is satisfying to empty a drawer/box/container.
The interior of the car is cleaner-also satisfying.
Otherwise today I went to tap class, and watched a play (National Theatre at home), and it was a nice weekend.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:21 PM on February 2 [4 favorites]
I feel curious about crab divination.
I’m delighted to hear about Woody Guthrie!
Sorted through more filing drawers/piles of paperwork. Good thing the recycling bin pick-up is tomorrow. The task does not get easier, but it is satisfying to empty a drawer/box/container.
The interior of the car is cleaner-also satisfying.
Otherwise today I went to tap class, and watched a play (National Theatre at home), and it was a nice weekend.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:21 PM on February 2 [4 favorites]
My tier of the building has no heat, starting yesterday and through Friday. "Management" provided a space heater. Portions of the wall were taken out and are covered with plastic. Tomorrow, they are supposed to insert the riser.
I didn't do anything yesterday or today. Napped both days.
The value of an organized home was evinced on Thursday evening when a friend called and said she was a block or so away and had some refreshment. I was glad to have things in order despite all going on in the apartment and have clean glasses, ice in the trays, and a clean bathroom.
This stuff we are working on is conducive to a richer life.
posted by jgirl at 7:32 PM on February 2 [7 favorites]
I didn't do anything yesterday or today. Napped both days.
The value of an organized home was evinced on Thursday evening when a friend called and said she was a block or so away and had some refreshment. I was glad to have things in order despite all going on in the apartment and have clean glasses, ice in the trays, and a clean bathroom.
This stuff we are working on is conducive to a richer life.
posted by jgirl at 7:32 PM on February 2 [7 favorites]
It's a mackerel kitten! Look at those eyes!
kyraU2, was the play good? jgirl, that's excellent about being prepared for unexpected friend visit. Hope you are keeping warm though.
posted by paduasoy at 11:43 PM on February 2 [2 favorites]
kyraU2, was the play good? jgirl, that's excellent about being prepared for unexpected friend visit. Hope you are keeping warm though.
posted by paduasoy at 11:43 PM on February 2 [2 favorites]
Congrats gingerbeer on the kitten. Thanks paduasoy for continuing this. Even if I don't post much, it's been very helpful to see other people doing things.
For myself:
Posted some stuff on Buy Nothing and got them picked up.
Paid off some bills (literally just did it) and set aside tax documents for review.
Still need to set up some other health appointments.
More decluttering via Buy Nothing.
Work out some sort of method to stay on top of the laundry...all the clean things are still in baskets and folding and putting away seems kind of overwhelming and pointless but it should be done.
posted by toastyk at 8:22 AM on February 3 [4 favorites]
For myself:
Posted some stuff on Buy Nothing and got them picked up.
Paid off some bills (literally just did it) and set aside tax documents for review.
Still need to set up some other health appointments.
More decluttering via Buy Nothing.
Work out some sort of method to stay on top of the laundry...all the clean things are still in baskets and folding and putting away seems kind of overwhelming and pointless but it should be done.
posted by toastyk at 8:22 AM on February 3 [4 favorites]
I did nothing this weekend. My mojo is indeed gone since it hit February. I had a long list of things I wanted to do and my body was all, NO, IT IS COLD AND RAINING AND I WANT TO DO NOTHING NOTHING NOTHING. I barely got my dishes done, that's how bad it was. I'm not even sick either.
posted by jenfullmoon at 9:14 AM on February 3 [4 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 9:14 AM on February 3 [4 favorites]
Got quite a lot done today. Finch does help, I think. Chores this morning, cleaned bathroom, cleaned shower, washing etc. More book sorting, another three bags for charity. Work this afternoon. More chores and book sorting this evening, plus crochet and made onion soup.
posted by paduasoy at 2:10 PM on February 3 [4 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 2:10 PM on February 3 [4 favorites]
But, jenfullmoon, you DID get the dishes done.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:07 PM on February 3 [5 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:07 PM on February 3 [5 favorites]
3rd Feb:
No tasks; spent entire day going to & from Auckland for a medical thing. It's normally about 4 hours each way but a milk tanker had turned over, blocking the main highway in both directions, so there was a significant detour. Fortunately we'd stopped for a snack at Eutopia (absolutely the coolest cafe in NZ) and heard all about it, so we were able to catch the detour at the beginning and didn't have to backtrack. Also fortunately, allowing an extra two hours for any trip to Auckland has become standard procedure, so there wasn't even any time stress! The detours made for a really long day, though.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:15 PM on February 3 [4 favorites]
No tasks; spent entire day going to & from Auckland for a medical thing. It's normally about 4 hours each way but a milk tanker had turned over, blocking the main highway in both directions, so there was a significant detour. Fortunately we'd stopped for a snack at Eutopia (absolutely the coolest cafe in NZ) and heard all about it, so we were able to catch the detour at the beginning and didn't have to backtrack. Also fortunately, allowing an extra two hours for any trip to Auckland has become standard procedure, so there wasn't even any time stress! The detours made for a really long day, though.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:15 PM on February 3 [4 favorites]
Swim practice, did small grocery shopping, dishes, fast clean of the bathroom. Fell asleep around dinner time and woke up at 8 p.m. Apparently they inserted the riser. Wall openings still have plastic on them.
posted by jgirl at 6:13 PM on February 3 [4 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 6:13 PM on February 3 [4 favorites]
Today, after three tries, I inflated the right front tire of the car so that the automatic “low pressure” message/associated noise went away. We had a very cold snap a couple of weeks ago, so of course the tires were registering as low, but the bing bing bing was getting to me. This feels like a much larger victory as the two petrol/gas/fuel stations I visited yesterday were both out of air. Also the BING needed to stop. That was all the GSD for today but so satisfying.
I also hope you are staying warm, jgirl, and am impressed with you rising to the occasion for your guest.
Yes, little Woody Guthrie looks like a mackerel tabby to me! Those soulful eyes. Kitten!
There are days when things get crossed off lists, days when lists don’t get written, and days when the idea of penning a list is overwhelming. Sometimes NOTHING is just fine.
I have a basket of clean laundry staring at me, toastyk. I hear you.
For paduasoy, and any other theatre goers out there, Mr Kyra and I watched a cycle of three contemporary plays over the past week on National Theatre At Home: The Death of England, by Clint Dyer and Roy Williams. It’s not the same as seeing plays live in London but there is a dearth of good theatre where I live so the streaming service is much appreciated. These were heavy hitting but very well done. I don’t want to bore anyone or get too off topic but I do recommend.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:14 PM on February 3 [5 favorites]
I also hope you are staying warm, jgirl, and am impressed with you rising to the occasion for your guest.
Yes, little Woody Guthrie looks like a mackerel tabby to me! Those soulful eyes. Kitten!
There are days when things get crossed off lists, days when lists don’t get written, and days when the idea of penning a list is overwhelming. Sometimes NOTHING is just fine.
I have a basket of clean laundry staring at me, toastyk. I hear you.
For paduasoy, and any other theatre goers out there, Mr Kyra and I watched a cycle of three contemporary plays over the past week on National Theatre At Home: The Death of England, by Clint Dyer and Roy Williams. It’s not the same as seeing plays live in London but there is a dearth of good theatre where I live so the streaming service is much appreciated. These were heavy hitting but very well done. I don’t want to bore anyone or get too off topic but I do recommend.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:14 PM on February 3 [5 favorites]
Just the laundry.
But I also re-learned how to stir fry tofu on my induction top, so, you know, tidying will happen soon
posted by eustatic at 6:56 PM on February 3 [6 favorites]
But I also re-learned how to stir fry tofu on my induction top, so, you know, tidying will happen soon
posted by eustatic at 6:56 PM on February 3 [6 favorites]
In catching up I found I have many, possibly most, of those items on the list Sunpower linked.
I seem to be on a dishes schedule of every OTHER day for now, which is fine. I did do quite a bit of organizing and throwing stuff out over the weekend- which counts even though mostly I was trying to find something. (I found it!) And also set up a spot for filming drawing videos.
Paduasoy wow, what a nice wrap-up you did for January! I missed most of the last week over there because I’ve been making videos. 3 short videos and 8 shorts (3 are just my dogs) in January. I was planning to start anyway, but I am certain the January thread helped with what I think is great progress! The videos are ok but not great, those with voiceover are a bit cringe, and they are all very short (and 3 are just my dogs), but I wish we had a word in the U.S.for chuffed because I am.
Everybody is doing so much stuff!
jenfullmoon - doing the dishes totally counts. You’re so hard on yourself!
Woody! :D
posted by Glinn at 7:46 PM on February 3 [5 favorites]
I seem to be on a dishes schedule of every OTHER day for now, which is fine. I did do quite a bit of organizing and throwing stuff out over the weekend- which counts even though mostly I was trying to find something. (I found it!) And also set up a spot for filming drawing videos.
Paduasoy wow, what a nice wrap-up you did for January! I missed most of the last week over there because I’ve been making videos. 3 short videos and 8 shorts (3 are just my dogs) in January. I was planning to start anyway, but I am certain the January thread helped with what I think is great progress! The videos are ok but not great, those with voiceover are a bit cringe, and they are all very short (and 3 are just my dogs), but I wish we had a word in the U.S.for chuffed because I am.
Everybody is doing so much stuff!
jenfullmoon - doing the dishes totally counts. You’re so hard on yourself!
Woody! :D
posted by Glinn at 7:46 PM on February 3 [5 favorites]
I just want you all to know how PROUD I am of all of you.
As a professional organizer, I didn't want to inject myself into the January thread, mostly because I had this constant urge to jump in with decluttering/organizing/productivity advice and blog links (even when unwanted/unrequested). It was better to let you all just do your thing(s).
But you all used a text-based form of accountability that's not quite the method we call body doubling, but close enough for (meta) horseshoes. I kept the event page open in one of my tabs and checked every day, giving you all shoutouts in my house (and using your enthusiasm to push myself on tasks I dreaded — because even professional organizers can have excess clutter and undone tasks. If I'd realized the comments would be shut off, I'd have congratulated you all there, but this will have to do. Yay, all of you!
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 1:05 AM on February 4 [12 favorites]
As a professional organizer, I didn't want to inject myself into the January thread, mostly because I had this constant urge to jump in with decluttering/organizing/productivity advice and blog links (even when unwanted/unrequested). It was better to let you all just do your thing(s).
But you all used a text-based form of accountability that's not quite the method we call body doubling, but close enough for (meta) horseshoes. I kept the event page open in one of my tabs and checked every day, giving you all shoutouts in my house (and using your enthusiasm to push myself on tasks I dreaded — because even professional organizers can have excess clutter and undone tasks. If I'd realized the comments would be shut off, I'd have congratulated you all there, but this will have to do. Yay, all of you!
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 1:05 AM on February 4 [12 favorites]
4th Feb:
Inside: Re-hung up a small oil painting of a bee that a friend did as a birthday card a few years ago. It has repeatedly fallen down as it was just a little too heavy for blutack, so now I've tacked it in place as well. Decided that if I change its location later I'll just deal with the tiny holes then.
Outside: Pulled a weed.
Life admin: paid a bill.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:08 AM on February 4 [3 favorites]
Inside: Re-hung up a small oil painting of a bee that a friend did as a birthday card a few years ago. It has repeatedly fallen down as it was just a little too heavy for blutack, so now I've tacked it in place as well. Decided that if I change its location later I'll just deal with the tiny holes then.
Outside: Pulled a weed.
Life admin: paid a bill.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:08 AM on February 4 [3 favorites]
The Wrong Kind of Cheese, that's very kind of you! I've always read your organizing-related posts with great interest.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:11 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:11 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
That is really kind, The Wrong Kind of Cheese.
inexorably_forward, I love that you have a small oil painting of a bee. It sounds like slightly offbeat Victoriana.
posted by paduasoy at 4:36 AM on February 4 [3 favorites]
inexorably_forward, I love that you have a small oil painting of a bee. It sounds like slightly offbeat Victoriana.
posted by paduasoy at 4:36 AM on February 4 [3 favorites]
Sunpower, I think I missed the list you linked last month. Mismatched food storage (number 20) is one I've been thinking about. Working up the motivation to put all Tupperware containers with their lids, and dispose of the unmatched. Like a very plasticy game of Snap.
posted by paduasoy at 4:40 AM on February 4 [4 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 4:40 AM on February 4 [4 favorites]
Good going everyone!
Wrong Kind of Cheese, I'd love any tips or links.
Feb. 2-3
More cleanup after plumbing work...
posted by mmoncur at 4:57 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
Wrong Kind of Cheese, I'd love any tips or links.
Feb. 2-3
More cleanup after plumbing work...
posted by mmoncur at 4:57 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
Wrong Kind of Cheese! Nice to see you here! That is so nice what you did. 😊
I'd love to have a cozy meetup with everyone here! I appreciate you all.
Last night I started a new kind of video, and not much else. But that's fine for a Monday after work! This morning the dogs and I took a longer walk than we have been (mostly due to the cold, but also hitting the snooze too many times recently), and that was a nice accomplishment.
posted by Glinn at 6:31 AM on February 4 [6 favorites]
I'd love to have a cozy meetup with everyone here! I appreciate you all.
Last night I started a new kind of video, and not much else. But that's fine for a Monday after work! This morning the dogs and I took a longer walk than we have been (mostly due to the cold, but also hitting the snooze too many times recently), and that was a nice accomplishment.
posted by Glinn at 6:31 AM on February 4 [6 favorites]
I got a bit derailed by work travel and out-of-town visitors, so the progress has not been linear. Also, things continue to break and go wrong with the apartment, so the list always has new entries.
Nonetheless:
Inside
-Repaired the damaged dining table and filled some scratches on our floors
-Finally bought (and used) little baskets for the big deep kitchen drawers so things aren't just wedged in there.
-I have done nothing to the back sunroom, but partner got in there and started his own little project so now I feel like I can take some time off of that mess.
Admin
Scheduled several doctors' appointments for the year
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 8:35 AM on February 4 [6 favorites]
Nonetheless:
Inside
-Repaired the damaged dining table and filled some scratches on our floors
-Finally bought (and used) little baskets for the big deep kitchen drawers so things aren't just wedged in there.
-I have done nothing to the back sunroom, but partner got in there and started his own little project so now I feel like I can take some time off of that mess.
Admin
Scheduled several doctors' appointments for the year
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 8:35 AM on February 4 [6 favorites]
Glinn, I am also often doing the dishes every other day. Doing them every meal was a sacrosanct thing in our house when I was growing up. But, swim practices are killing me. Last night I slept about 9.5 hours in addition to the 2.5 or so hour nap.
Today is laundry, trying to stay awake, and reading for book club on Thursday. There's still no word on when they will be doing additional work in here. Shocking!
This month is quarterly cleaning month. I wish they would get in here already.
posted by jgirl at 9:25 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
Today is laundry, trying to stay awake, and reading for book club on Thursday. There's still no word on when they will be doing additional work in here. Shocking!
This month is quarterly cleaning month. I wish they would get in here already.
posted by jgirl at 9:25 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
It's fine if The Wrong Kind of Cheese has thoughts they want to share :)
posted by jenfullmoon at 9:29 AM on February 4 [4 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 9:29 AM on February 4 [4 favorites]
We welcome all kinds of cheese around here.
Yesterday I shredded a whole trash bag of papers -- old pay stubs and tax info and checks and what not. Very satisfying. I still have another bag to go. Clearing this room out for a kitten is extremely good motivation.
posted by gingerbeer at 10:53 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
Yesterday I shredded a whole trash bag of papers -- old pay stubs and tax info and checks and what not. Very satisfying. I still have another bag to go. Clearing this room out for a kitten is extremely good motivation.
posted by gingerbeer at 10:53 AM on February 4 [5 favorites]
I also called the car dealership about a part they ordered and picked up meds at Kaiser (new work health plan suuuucks -- much higher co-pays) and spoke to a reporter for work. All got me more Finch points. I have one well-dressed little birb.
posted by gingerbeer at 11:06 AM on February 4 [6 favorites]
posted by gingerbeer at 11:06 AM on February 4 [6 favorites]
Two loads of laundry, one job application, two salad dressings made, some reading, and I am struggling to stay awake. More riser work tomorrow.
posted by jgirl at 2:13 PM on February 4 [6 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 2:13 PM on February 4 [6 favorites]
Paid some bills, including the one I find Emotionally Taxing for inexplicable reasons. Put medical appointments into calendar. Got birthday card to family member ready to mail. Filed various papers. Did some online banking I have been avoiding.
paduasoy, I really liked your summary of all actions taken in January at the end of the previous thread. I did notice with some amusement that you listed 5 desks tidied -- I think most of them were mine! I think the reason my desk has become such a dumping ground is that I am doing such a good/terrible job at avoiding paperwork that I'm not doing the minimum upkeep to keep my desk clear. (I don't know why this is such a revelation, but here we are.)
posted by nuclear bessel at 3:04 PM on February 4 [6 favorites]
paduasoy, I really liked your summary of all actions taken in January at the end of the previous thread. I did notice with some amusement that you listed 5 desks tidied -- I think most of them were mine! I think the reason my desk has become such a dumping ground is that I am doing such a good/terrible job at avoiding paperwork that I'm not doing the minimum upkeep to keep my desk clear. (I don't know why this is such a revelation, but here we are.)
posted by nuclear bessel at 3:04 PM on February 4 [6 favorites]
This month is quarterly cleaning month.
Tell me more! Is this your quarterly cleaning month, or theirs?
posted by inexorably_forward at 4:55 PM on February 4 [2 favorites]
Tell me more! Is this your quarterly cleaning month, or theirs?
posted by inexorably_forward at 4:55 PM on February 4 [2 favorites]
5th Feb:
Inside: Cleaned outside of range hood.
Outside: Took some bits of wood to the burn pile.
Life admin: Paid a bill.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:53 AM on February 5 [3 favorites]
Inside: Cleaned outside of range hood.
Outside: Took some bits of wood to the burn pile.
Life admin: Paid a bill.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:53 AM on February 5 [3 favorites]
Tell me more! Is this your quarterly cleaning month, or theirs?
It's mine.
posted by jgirl at 4:50 AM on February 5 [2 favorites]
It's mine.
posted by jgirl at 4:50 AM on February 5 [2 favorites]
I was very happy to see the February thread. Thanks paduasoy for that summary of January GSD. Unbelievable! how much everyone has achieved doing GSD together.
The first few days of February, I hardly did anything as the weather was dull, cold and rainy. Idk about others, I get moody and less motivated during those days. On top of that, I had a cardiologist appt too :(( But, the dr was amazing and made me feel at ease.
From the list, I posted in January thread, I have completed some of things like getting rid of expired skincare, medicine & pantry foods, recycled old magazines, gave away some clothes, shoes and unused books ( still more to go).
Today’s goal is get some laundry done.
posted by SunPower at 6:19 AM on February 5 [5 favorites]
The first few days of February, I hardly did anything as the weather was dull, cold and rainy. Idk about others, I get moody and less motivated during those days. On top of that, I had a cardiologist appt too :(( But, the dr was amazing and made me feel at ease.
From the list, I posted in January thread, I have completed some of things like getting rid of expired skincare, medicine & pantry foods, recycled old magazines, gave away some clothes, shoes and unused books ( still more to go).
Today’s goal is get some laundry done.
posted by SunPower at 6:19 AM on February 5 [5 favorites]
Somebody mentioned the A Slob Comes Clean podcast in the January thread (thanks!) and I thought I could at least add it to my podcast app...
Believe it or not, I think it has actually made a difference! I listened to several episodes and didn't feel like the content was quite relevant to me, but I found myself getting around to some stuff that I would normally just let slide. I'm getting less clutter-blind!
Moral of the story: if you're not motivated to do some actual decluttering but you sort of feel like perhaps you should consider it, lurk here and/or start consuming some decluttering content and perhaps you'll find yourself with some round tuits that you didn't have before.
posted by demi-octopus at 12:32 PM on February 5 [2 favorites]
Believe it or not, I think it has actually made a difference! I listened to several episodes and didn't feel like the content was quite relevant to me, but I found myself getting around to some stuff that I would normally just let slide. I'm getting less clutter-blind!
Moral of the story: if you're not motivated to do some actual decluttering but you sort of feel like perhaps you should consider it, lurk here and/or start consuming some decluttering content and perhaps you'll find yourself with some round tuits that you didn't have before.
posted by demi-octopus at 12:32 PM on February 5 [2 favorites]
[One deleted. Poster's request.]
posted by travelingthyme at 12:44 PM on February 5
posted by travelingthyme at 12:44 PM on February 5
Today I tried a new medical gizmo that I'm supposed to be using daily, wrote a long-overdue email to a friend, and signed up for a fitness app as an experiment. Also called the library about a book I returned that they claim is overdue. Cleaned up my email inbox. Didn't get to any financials but perhaps tomorrow.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:52 PM on February 5 [4 favorites]
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:52 PM on February 5 [4 favorites]
Swim practice today, coffee with two teammates, small grocery shop, finished book club book, and now remembering the dishes soaking in the sink. The heat is back on, but I don’t know the work status. I’m wiped from practice. Need to read a bit for a church-related thing tomorrow. Gotta do the dishes. I did a big admin thing today, too.
posted by jgirl at 5:47 PM on February 5 [4 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 5:47 PM on February 5 [4 favorites]
6th Jan:
Inside: Reorganised junk drawer by throwing away actual junk and putting other things in little bins or bags by general category.
Outside: Did a bit of tree trimming.
Life admin: Sent some email.
posted by inexorably_forward at 11:21 PM on February 5 [2 favorites]
Inside: Reorganised junk drawer by throwing away actual junk and putting other things in little bins or bags by general category.
Outside: Did a bit of tree trimming.
Life admin: Sent some email.
posted by inexorably_forward at 11:21 PM on February 5 [2 favorites]
SunPower, I never look forward to a dr appt. You got it over with, which is always a relief (to me) - bonus, it went well! Also sounds like you got rid of a lot of things!
I have to admit I may have done some careless tidying, because I lost a piece of mail. It was stickers from another artist on YT and I am bummed... but, I do think I may still find it and it may not be thrown away like I fear.
demi-octopus, hooray for the round tuits! I lol'd.
nuclear bessel, congratulations on trying the medical gizmo. It seems you had to overcome some hurdle to do so, and you did it!
jgirl, yay on the big admin thing!
inexorably_forward - THREE categories of things! Killing it! 😊
EVERYONE - Excellent work. :D
I posted another very short cute dog video with some text and titles.
AND I did dishes and a load of laundry yesterday.
posted by Glinn at 7:22 AM on February 6 [4 favorites]
I have to admit I may have done some careless tidying, because I lost a piece of mail. It was stickers from another artist on YT and I am bummed... but, I do think I may still find it and it may not be thrown away like I fear.
demi-octopus, hooray for the round tuits! I lol'd.
nuclear bessel, congratulations on trying the medical gizmo. It seems you had to overcome some hurdle to do so, and you did it!
jgirl, yay on the big admin thing!
inexorably_forward - THREE categories of things! Killing it! 😊
EVERYONE - Excellent work. :D
I posted another very short cute dog video with some text and titles.
AND I did dishes and a load of laundry yesterday.
posted by Glinn at 7:22 AM on February 6 [4 favorites]
Thank you, Glinn, for your encouraging words! Indeed, trying the new medical gizmo was a hurdle as the last two gizmos I tried made another medical condition worse, but this one did not. I am pleased. As for your stickers, I hope they turn up for you.
And yay everyone for keeping on keeping on. I did not get much done today but have hopes for tomorrow.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:59 PM on February 6 [4 favorites]
And yay everyone for keeping on keeping on. I did not get much done today but have hopes for tomorrow.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:59 PM on February 6 [4 favorites]
Heat is not on after all. I had my two meetings. Yet another nap, and I fixed late supper, ate, and washed the dishes. I also put some recently worn jewelry back in the box.
Next week they come to put insulation on the riser, and someday, they will patch the wall.
posted by jgirl at 6:03 PM on February 6 [4 favorites]
Next week they come to put insulation on the riser, and someday, they will patch the wall.
posted by jgirl at 6:03 PM on February 6 [4 favorites]
7th Feb:
Taking a day off from getting stuff done.
posted by inexorably_forward at 6:11 PM on February 6 [4 favorites]
Taking a day off from getting stuff done.
posted by inexorably_forward at 6:11 PM on February 6 [4 favorites]
Last month I achieved the goal of moving down to the basement as my primary living space. The basement bedroom is nice and small and snug, so the space heater and humidifier can make it a good breathing environment for my winter asthma, which flared up quite seriously last month.
The other day, a subsequent goal completed: Grace, the last cat who had not yet moved down to the basement, finally moved down. She's a special needs kitty, adopted from a hoarding situation, where she was pretty severely traumatized. It took her a while to get brave enough to come down here, initially mostly at night while everything was quiet, but she's moved in and hanging out down here mostly full time, and is finally back to coming up and asking for affection from me in the evenings. This made me very happy. She had only gotten as far as asking for affection a few months ago, after living here for almost 4 years now, and my move downstairs had set her back to mostly hiding again.
Goal for the weekend: Getting my Metafilter Valentines written up and mailed out!
posted by notoriety public at 6:21 PM on February 6 [6 favorites]
The other day, a subsequent goal completed: Grace, the last cat who had not yet moved down to the basement, finally moved down. She's a special needs kitty, adopted from a hoarding situation, where she was pretty severely traumatized. It took her a while to get brave enough to come down here, initially mostly at night while everything was quiet, but she's moved in and hanging out down here mostly full time, and is finally back to coming up and asking for affection from me in the evenings. This made me very happy. She had only gotten as far as asking for affection a few months ago, after living here for almost 4 years now, and my move downstairs had set her back to mostly hiding again.
Goal for the weekend: Getting my Metafilter Valentines written up and mailed out!
posted by notoriety public at 6:21 PM on February 6 [6 favorites]
Had a tough few days feeling mentally rubbish, so not got as much done as I wanted. I feel I need alternate lists, or a flowchart - list A being what I plan to get done if feeling ok, but list B to switch to if I'm having a bad day. Otherwise I just fail with list A and beat myself up about it. Will give this some thought.
I have cleaned pre the plumber coming, and managed to get him to look at all the things I wanted him to. I returned a non-working toaster. Posted my last couple of MF cards. Haven't done some things I know I would enjoy, craft and research things.
I was out yesterday with an elderly friend - whom I am considering an Ask post about, as she is unrelentingly negative and it gets me down - and took some photographs at the shore. Couldn't see what I was taking because of the light on the screen. But I was pleased with this one.
posted by paduasoy at 5:35 AM on February 7 [3 favorites]
I have cleaned pre the plumber coming, and managed to get him to look at all the things I wanted him to. I returned a non-working toaster. Posted my last couple of MF cards. Haven't done some things I know I would enjoy, craft and research things.
I was out yesterday with an elderly friend - whom I am considering an Ask post about, as she is unrelentingly negative and it gets me down - and took some photographs at the shore. Couldn't see what I was taking because of the light on the screen. But I was pleased with this one.
posted by paduasoy at 5:35 AM on February 7 [3 favorites]
Oh, I also went to the GP about a referral to the respiratory hub. But managed to talk myself into agreeing I have symptoms I don't think I actually have, so not sure if I'll proceed with treatment. One step forward, two steps back ... I have succeeded in keeping my bedroom tidy pretty much all year so far though. I realise the year isn't very long yet, but I'm taking the win!
posted by paduasoy at 5:43 AM on February 7 [3 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 5:43 AM on February 7 [3 favorites]
paduasoy, oh my gosh, there is no failure. You made these threads, you've helped us all, you've done so much this year! There's probably some biorhythm thing where we have fewer spoons at certain times, and I hope we can all try to be gentle with ourselves. Apologies for sounding like a Hallmark card. 😊 (For emojis, period plus windows key. If you hate emojis, sorry!)
I'm pretty sure you're doing two steps forward, one step back. Like most people, probably. You're doing so great! :D
So I've been filming some things with my new setup, but realized I did not have the right cable to plug my camera (newer) into my computer (older). It would have been so easy to order from Amazon (and no shade whatsoever to those who do). Instead, I hope to stop at Target or Best Buy or something. Heck Walgreens probably has the cable. (I *think* I need a USB old to USB-C). Happy Friday, everyone.
posted by Glinn at 8:07 AM on February 7 [3 favorites]
I'm pretty sure you're doing two steps forward, one step back. Like most people, probably. You're doing so great! :D
So I've been filming some things with my new setup, but realized I did not have the right cable to plug my camera (newer) into my computer (older). It would have been so easy to order from Amazon (and no shade whatsoever to those who do). Instead, I hope to stop at Target or Best Buy or something. Heck Walgreens probably has the cable. (I *think* I need a USB old to USB-C). Happy Friday, everyone.
posted by Glinn at 8:07 AM on February 7 [3 favorites]
I don’t know where this week has gone! I am enjoying catching up with what everyone is doing.
For the record, I also welcome all types of cheese and any comments.
Glint, I hope your stickers turn up. I think in the December thread some misplaced ornaments did make a reappearance, so it could happen. I also commiserate because I have experienced this many times.
I loved your photograph, paduasoy; thank you. Not being able to see what I’m photographing is common for me, especially when outdoors, due to glare, or the lighting, or the fact that my glasses have darkened and I can’t see the screen without taking off my glasses, and then it’s all blurry!
I hope you feel better mentally-it’s unpleasant to feel “stuck,” and I imagine we have all been there. And yet, we persist as best we can.
Your lack of heat is concerning, jgirl.
A clean junk drawer always improves my spirits, inexorably_forward.
This week, I had lunch with a friend, ran some errands, went to two medical appointments (and got good news from one of them), wrote and mailed a thank-you note to said friend for being treated to lunch, did some paperwork/life admin things, cleared out a tiny bit more from the closet with the filing cabinets that contain all the stuff, refilled a prescription, and that’s all I recall.
I want to get back to cooking more often, and this week made taco soup and a delicious chicken and rice dish, and have a new to me soup recipe to try this weekend.
I am also trying to get fresh air/more movement/do my PT exercises. This has been a good week for that, despite some unappealing weather (I have had a couple of brisk walks, both duration and temperature).
I am coming to understand that not only do I need to clear things out, but also I need to consider what to do with things going forward. I don’t intuitively know how to organise certain items or where to put things in my home. (I’m fine at work.)
However, that will be an ongoing process, I am sure. But a promise to my future self is I will stop filling up filing cabinets with stuff I don’t need and will never look at again!
posted by kyraU2 at 12:50 PM on February 7 [6 favorites]
For the record, I also welcome all types of cheese and any comments.
Glint, I hope your stickers turn up. I think in the December thread some misplaced ornaments did make a reappearance, so it could happen. I also commiserate because I have experienced this many times.
I loved your photograph, paduasoy; thank you. Not being able to see what I’m photographing is common for me, especially when outdoors, due to glare, or the lighting, or the fact that my glasses have darkened and I can’t see the screen without taking off my glasses, and then it’s all blurry!
I hope you feel better mentally-it’s unpleasant to feel “stuck,” and I imagine we have all been there. And yet, we persist as best we can.
Your lack of heat is concerning, jgirl.
A clean junk drawer always improves my spirits, inexorably_forward.
This week, I had lunch with a friend, ran some errands, went to two medical appointments (and got good news from one of them), wrote and mailed a thank-you note to said friend for being treated to lunch, did some paperwork/life admin things, cleared out a tiny bit more from the closet with the filing cabinets that contain all the stuff, refilled a prescription, and that’s all I recall.
I want to get back to cooking more often, and this week made taco soup and a delicious chicken and rice dish, and have a new to me soup recipe to try this weekend.
I am also trying to get fresh air/more movement/do my PT exercises. This has been a good week for that, despite some unappealing weather (I have had a couple of brisk walks, both duration and temperature).
I am coming to understand that not only do I need to clear things out, but also I need to consider what to do with things going forward. I don’t intuitively know how to organise certain items or where to put things in my home. (I’m fine at work.)
However, that will be an ongoing process, I am sure. But a promise to my future self is I will stop filling up filing cabinets with stuff I don’t need and will never look at again!
posted by kyraU2 at 12:50 PM on February 7 [6 favorites]
Thanks everyone, that's kind.
Got a bit more done this evening, nice things - crocheted, and made spiced shortbread for my stepfather, who's having a hard time. Listened to In Our Time about John Soane, which was interesting - much enthusiasm from the experts.
And am heading to bed on time! Good wishes to all.
posted by paduasoy at 1:57 PM on February 7 [4 favorites]
Got a bit more done this evening, nice things - crocheted, and made spiced shortbread for my stepfather, who's having a hard time. Listened to In Our Time about John Soane, which was interesting - much enthusiasm from the experts.
And am heading to bed on time! Good wishes to all.
posted by paduasoy at 1:57 PM on February 7 [4 favorites]
Your evening activities sound lovely, paduasoy.
(Might one enquire about what sort of spices in the shortbread, please? I do love shortbread and variations on same, but don’t wish to add things to do, to your list.)
The coconut black bean soup is simmering now and I am looking at my selection of library books. I’ll try not to splash the one on the other!
posted by kyraU2 at 3:36 PM on February 7 [5 favorites]
(Might one enquire about what sort of spices in the shortbread, please? I do love shortbread and variations on same, but don’t wish to add things to do, to your list.)
The coconut black bean soup is simmering now and I am looking at my selection of library books. I’ll try not to splash the one on the other!
posted by kyraU2 at 3:36 PM on February 7 [5 favorites]
notoriety public, lovely to hear about your little rescue kitten. Everyone, it's great to hear about your progress.
I have sent a whack of email this morning, and am slowly reorganizing my inbox message filters to get a little closer to inbox not-quite-zero. Filed a tax document, looked up a financial thing, sent an email asking clarification about the financial thing. Now it's time to organize a leisure activity so I'm going to go do that.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:22 PM on February 7 [6 favorites]
I have sent a whack of email this morning, and am slowly reorganizing my inbox message filters to get a little closer to inbox not-quite-zero. Filed a tax document, looked up a financial thing, sent an email asking clarification about the financial thing. Now it's time to organize a leisure activity so I'm going to go do that.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:22 PM on February 7 [6 favorites]
My office is cleared and vacuumed and ready to be the landing spot/isolation room for Woody, who is due to arrive shortly! Photos to come.
posted by gingerbeer at 5:24 PM on February 7 [6 favorites]
posted by gingerbeer at 5:24 PM on February 7 [6 favorites]
8th Feb:
Inside: Put pencil leads that I'd found in the junk drawer into a couple of mechanical pencils. Now they're usable again!
Outside: Polished headlights on car.
Life admin: Downloaded a tax document.
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:34 AM on February 8 [3 favorites]
Inside: Put pencil leads that I'd found in the junk drawer into a couple of mechanical pencils. Now they're usable again!
Outside: Polished headlights on car.
Life admin: Downloaded a tax document.
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:34 AM on February 8 [3 favorites]
I dropped out of the January thread - family member remained in hospital for the whole of January but is now home. I was felled by some kind of virus for a couple of weeks, preventing hospital visits and forcing me to rest which was probably a good thing. Still got some things done but not others.
Several things I need to do, but not today, in the "property management" category - call the waterproofing specialist, text the plumber. Plumber sounds promising - there's a tricky problem in new-to-us house and I've been ghosted by several plumbers, but this one has done some work for me already in a rental house and seems like a keen problem-solver.
I'm rooting for all of you but particularly for those who are finding it difficult to GSD just now.
posted by altolinguistic at 5:35 AM on February 8 [2 favorites]
Several things I need to do, but not today, in the "property management" category - call the waterproofing specialist, text the plumber. Plumber sounds promising - there's a tricky problem in new-to-us house and I've been ghosted by several plumbers, but this one has done some work for me already in a rental house and seems like a keen problem-solver.
I'm rooting for all of you but particularly for those who are finding it difficult to GSD just now.
posted by altolinguistic at 5:35 AM on February 8 [2 favorites]
Oh hey folks! I came to IRL to see what happened after I disappeared in January, what a lovely round-up! And a February thread! (Semi-planned trip to help family happened, very fun but it brought GSD to a screeching halt.)
I am now back, and getting back into the swing of things. Today is for gardening, I bought plants and they need to be in the ground. There are also inside projects. Good to see everyone!
posted by mersen at 7:47 AM on February 8 [5 favorites]
I am now back, and getting back into the swing of things. Today is for gardening, I bought plants and they need to be in the ground. There are also inside projects. Good to see everyone!
posted by mersen at 7:47 AM on February 8 [5 favorites]
Hi all! Popping in to say props to all of you, and hope you are all keeping your heads above water this weekend. And if you've been doing a bunch of stuff, yay, and you deserve a break.
I came across this YouTuber who preps her husband's lunches, and I think I might plan to make some of them, as she promises they can be done in half an hour for the most part.
Other things to do this weekend:
1. Hit the farmers market for veggies and strawberries as daughter wants to make chocolate-covered strawberries. Maybe fresh pasta, too.
2. Laundry (never-ending!)
3. Help son finish his school project.
4. Distribute stuff to proper places in the house - emergency supplies to garage, move art supplies to bookshelf, consolidate junk.
5. Put more stuff on Buy Nothing.
6. Still have to make my drs appts. I think I have some sort of mental block on it.
7. Start scanning docs for taxes and submit to our tax person.
8. Clear my desk.
posted by toastyk at 8:23 AM on February 8 [3 favorites]
I came across this YouTuber who preps her husband's lunches, and I think I might plan to make some of them, as she promises they can be done in half an hour for the most part.
Other things to do this weekend:
1. Hit the farmers market for veggies and strawberries as daughter wants to make chocolate-covered strawberries. Maybe fresh pasta, too.
2. Laundry (never-ending!)
3. Help son finish his school project.
4. Distribute stuff to proper places in the house - emergency supplies to garage, move art supplies to bookshelf, consolidate junk.
5. Put more stuff on Buy Nothing.
6. Still have to make my drs appts. I think I have some sort of mental block on it.
7. Start scanning docs for taxes and submit to our tax person.
8. Clear my desk.
posted by toastyk at 8:23 AM on February 8 [3 favorites]
MeFi Valentines are in the mail!
posted by notoriety public at 11:33 AM on February 8 [5 favorites]
posted by notoriety public at 11:33 AM on February 8 [5 favorites]
I have combined my (a) tired and (b) watching an online yarn summit thing with (c) emptying my back bookshelf and going through papers and binders I have stashed there. Decided to throw out a bunch of my old personal notebooks because I have no desire to read that same old angst in which nothing changed from 2010 on over again.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:51 PM on February 8 [6 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:51 PM on February 8 [6 favorites]
I cleaned up the back bookcase, threw out a ton of papers and notebooks, and it actually looks like a normal person's bookcase back there! Also tried out some new clothing hangers, which sadly did not hold more than just not using them at all did. Then I dug through and emptied the entire left closet to find the broken doodad so I could re-fix the closet hanger I bought. Put it back on, hung all pants on it. Fixed my portable hanger and rearranged clothes on it again, So I did something today.
posted by jenfullmoon at 4:21 PM on February 8 [5 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 4:21 PM on February 8 [5 favorites]
9th Feb:
Inside: Another cascade of tasks: I was cleaning all the kitchen cabinet handles and doors, but then one of the cabinet hinges broke (or revealed itself to be broken, depending on one's point of view), so two hardware stores and a hinge installation later I was finally able to get back to cleaning the kitchen cabinet handles. They're clean now.
Outside: Pulled a few weeds.
Life admin: Answered an email message.
posted by inexorably_forward at 9:21 PM on February 8 [3 favorites]
Inside: Another cascade of tasks: I was cleaning all the kitchen cabinet handles and doors, but then one of the cabinet hinges broke (or revealed itself to be broken, depending on one's point of view), so two hardware stores and a hinge installation later I was finally able to get back to cleaning the kitchen cabinet handles. They're clean now.
Outside: Pulled a few weeds.
Life admin: Answered an email message.
posted by inexorably_forward at 9:21 PM on February 8 [3 favorites]
Wow, that's a lot of things. I like "it looks like a normal person's!" I think a lot of us know what that feels like.
This is the shortbread recipe. I think it came out ok. Haven't actually tried one myself yet, but kept two back for a rail journey later today. Going to Cornwall to stay with my aunt for a few days, so may be a bit absent from this thread. Packing is hard. Have had to jettison and think I'm down to only four books, plus magazines and of course kindle. And only three yarn projects. It is just possible I have still over-packed.
Have just posted on the critter pictures thread in MetaTalk - looking forward to seeing people's animals.
posted by paduasoy at 1:46 AM on February 9 [3 favorites]
This is the shortbread recipe. I think it came out ok. Haven't actually tried one myself yet, but kept two back for a rail journey later today. Going to Cornwall to stay with my aunt for a few days, so may be a bit absent from this thread. Packing is hard. Have had to jettison and think I'm down to only four books, plus magazines and of course kindle. And only three yarn projects. It is just possible I have still over-packed.
Have just posted on the critter pictures thread in MetaTalk - looking forward to seeing people's animals.
posted by paduasoy at 1:46 AM on February 9 [3 favorites]
altolinguistic, do not feel you dropped out. Once a Jan GSD'er, always a Jan GSD'er. 😊
that same old angst in which nothing changed from 2010 on over again
jenfullmoon, me too. But, it can get better. Never gonna be like everyone else, but can be happy sometimes. Look at you cleaning up stuff! (apologies if that is not helpful)
toastyk, that is a big list! I hope it's going well.
I still need to send my Mefi Valentines, hope to be done tomorrow. I even got one with the cutest teeny cat stickers from paduasoy already!
I am keeping up with dishes, did some laundry. Figured out my new overhead camera setup, edited a new video, edited it again for BlueSky (cindy01), steaming some broccoli.
posted by Glinn at 11:28 AM on February 9 [5 favorites]
that same old angst in which nothing changed from 2010 on over again
jenfullmoon, me too. But, it can get better. Never gonna be like everyone else, but can be happy sometimes. Look at you cleaning up stuff! (apologies if that is not helpful)
toastyk, that is a big list! I hope it's going well.
I still need to send my Mefi Valentines, hope to be done tomorrow. I even got one with the cutest teeny cat stickers from paduasoy already!
I am keeping up with dishes, did some laundry. Figured out my new overhead camera setup, edited a new video, edited it again for BlueSky (cindy01), steaming some broccoli.
posted by Glinn at 11:28 AM on February 9 [5 favorites]
Hope your journey was uneventful, paduasoy. Many thanks for the recipe!
Glinn, I’m glad the new camera setup is coming along and hope you’re able to have fun with it.
Hi to mersen and everyone else.
The black bean soup was delicious; glad I tried that recipe.
Today two bags of stuff went to Goodwill and things were dropped off for composting (aka the Food Morgue). We are eating a lot of citrus and the peels create a lot of compost, plus we hadn’t been in a couple of weeks, so that cleared out the bottom shelf of the freezer. Also errands today.
More clearing out of the filing cabinets/piles of paperwork and starting to believe I’m making progress. It’s also less emotionally taxing.
I cleared out two recipe binders (if that recipe was only sort of good back in 2007 and I never cooked it again I’m certainly not going to repeat it now).
inexorably _forward’s post reminds me I have a cascade story. I very thoroughly cleaned a section of the kitchen counter, kitchen cupboard doors, and kitchen floor last night. This is because I tipped over a bowl containing vegetable oil and, you guessed it, the oil cascaded onto the counter, down the front of the drawer and cabinet door, and onto the floor. The good news is, that part of the kitchen is squeaky clean, the glass bowl did not break, nothing was ruined, and we still had cornbread with our soup last night. Please feel free to laugh, because I did!
posted by kyraU2 at 1:01 PM on February 9 [5 favorites]
Glinn, I’m glad the new camera setup is coming along and hope you’re able to have fun with it.
Hi to mersen and everyone else.
The black bean soup was delicious; glad I tried that recipe.
Today two bags of stuff went to Goodwill and things were dropped off for composting (aka the Food Morgue). We are eating a lot of citrus and the peels create a lot of compost, plus we hadn’t been in a couple of weeks, so that cleared out the bottom shelf of the freezer. Also errands today.
More clearing out of the filing cabinets/piles of paperwork and starting to believe I’m making progress. It’s also less emotionally taxing.
I cleared out two recipe binders (if that recipe was only sort of good back in 2007 and I never cooked it again I’m certainly not going to repeat it now).
inexorably _forward’s post reminds me I have a cascade story. I very thoroughly cleaned a section of the kitchen counter, kitchen cupboard doors, and kitchen floor last night. This is because I tipped over a bowl containing vegetable oil and, you guessed it, the oil cascaded onto the counter, down the front of the drawer and cabinet door, and onto the floor. The good news is, that part of the kitchen is squeaky clean, the glass bowl did not break, nothing was ruined, and we still had cornbread with our soup last night. Please feel free to laugh, because I did!
posted by kyraU2 at 1:01 PM on February 9 [5 favorites]
A literal cascade!
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:55 PM on February 9 [3 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:55 PM on February 9 [3 favorites]
It certainly was, inexorably_forward!
posted by kyraU2 at 5:36 PM on February 9 [1 favorite]
posted by kyraU2 at 5:36 PM on February 9 [1 favorite]
10th Feb:
Inside: General tidying.
Outside: Changed oil in, and washed, car.
Life admin: Printed out something for a scary appointment tomorrow.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:17 AM on February 10 [4 favorites]
Inside: General tidying.
Outside: Changed oil in, and washed, car.
Life admin: Printed out something for a scary appointment tomorrow.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:17 AM on February 10 [4 favorites]
i_f, good luck with the scary appointment.
The last few days I've been slowly doing drywall repair and putting away stuff that was disorganized after the Big Plumbing Event...
posted by mmoncur at 5:32 AM on February 10 [3 favorites]
The last few days I've been slowly doing drywall repair and putting away stuff that was disorganized after the Big Plumbing Event...
posted by mmoncur at 5:32 AM on February 10 [3 favorites]
I did about half my list while watching Psych, so it's progress at least. Still more to do.
posted by toastyk at 8:06 AM on February 10 [4 favorites]
posted by toastyk at 8:06 AM on February 10 [4 favorites]
Over the weekend I did laundry, dusted, food shopped, and did much napping. I am exhausted.
The “management” contractor is in here now putting insulation on the riser.
posted by jgirl at 8:29 AM on February 10 [4 favorites]
The “management” contractor is in here now putting insulation on the riser.
posted by jgirl at 8:29 AM on February 10 [4 favorites]
i_f, I also have a scary appointment tomorrow, a medical procedure. It's actually a standard thing but my first time doing it. Several people have assured me it's not too bad, so I'm just waiting for it to be done and over with. And then 2 days later, the dental cleaning I tried to schedule back in Nov and Feb 13 was the earliest. :|
Caught up with dishes this morning - though somehow within 20 minutes the pile began anew.
The video recording and editing continues - and actually doing art/painting - which is the whole point of the recording and editing. Going better than I imagined it would be by this point, which is nice!
posted by Glinn at 9:30 AM on February 10 [5 favorites]
Caught up with dishes this morning - though somehow within 20 minutes the pile began anew.
The video recording and editing continues - and actually doing art/painting - which is the whole point of the recording and editing. Going better than I imagined it would be by this point, which is nice!
posted by Glinn at 9:30 AM on February 10 [5 favorites]
Today I made a phone call I have been putting off, so that felt good. Reached out to a couple of friends I haven’t spoken to in a while, and took my niece to lunch.
Glinn and inexorably_forward, sorry you both have scary appointments tomorrow. I hope they will have a positive outcome. My scary medical appointment (have done it before and it is necessary and helpful and I love my doctor but would rather not have to) is Thursday morning, but I have something fun planned for Friday.
Also, Glinn, isn’t it Not Amusing how appointments work out like that?
Keep us posted on “management,” jgirl.
posted by kyraU2 at 4:59 PM on February 10 [5 favorites]
Glinn and inexorably_forward, sorry you both have scary appointments tomorrow. I hope they will have a positive outcome. My scary medical appointment (have done it before and it is necessary and helpful and I love my doctor but would rather not have to) is Thursday morning, but I have something fun planned for Friday.
Also, Glinn, isn’t it Not Amusing how appointments work out like that?
Keep us posted on “management,” jgirl.
posted by kyraU2 at 4:59 PM on February 10 [5 favorites]
Thanks for the good wishes! My scary appointment was also medical, and while I'm not exactly pleased with the news I got, it could be worse. Oh well, it's a process. Onto the next thing.
Best of luck to everyone!
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:12 AM on February 11 [3 favorites]
Best of luck to everyone!
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:12 AM on February 11 [3 favorites]
11th Feb:
Inside: Sorted some trash.
Outside: Took car in for WoF.
Life admin: Booked a slot for some blood tests.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:14 AM on February 11 [4 favorites]
Inside: Sorted some trash.
Outside: Took car in for WoF.
Life admin: Booked a slot for some blood tests.
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:14 AM on February 11 [4 favorites]
forgot to pick up dry cleaning. forgot to pick up girl scouts cookies. hopefully going to do those today.
posted by toastyk at 7:13 AM on February 11 [3 favorites]
posted by toastyk at 7:13 AM on February 11 [3 favorites]
toastyk, I definitely have days like that. Better luck today!
Best wishes to all of those who have just had or will have a difficult appointment. I have a blood test later this week and am a little apprehensive as to what the results will be.
Nonetheless, I caught up on dishes, did a laundrython, practiced my musical instrument, and did a bunch of 2-minute tasks that were waiting for me on my desk. It is amazing to me how much space those tasks take up in my brain and yet how little time they take once I actually get down to them.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:56 PM on February 11 [5 favorites]
Best wishes to all of those who have just had or will have a difficult appointment. I have a blood test later this week and am a little apprehensive as to what the results will be.
Nonetheless, I caught up on dishes, did a laundrython, practiced my musical instrument, and did a bunch of 2-minute tasks that were waiting for me on my desk. It is amazing to me how much space those tasks take up in my brain and yet how little time they take once I actually get down to them.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:56 PM on February 11 [5 favorites]
I just sent an email follow-up to the difficult phone call I finally made yesterday.
I had unwelcome news today that my insurance company is denying my procedure on Thursday, on grounds of being an insurance company that doesn’t want to pay for it. I was initially upset (I don’t exactly enjoy this procedure but it has made a huge difference to my quality of life and pain and if it gets delayed that’s not ideal), but I have a good doctor with a good staff and one way or another we will get it figured out. I work in healthcare, so I am all too familiar with insurance denials. Thanks for letting me vent.
I went to work, came home, helped assemble dinner, and did some dishes.
Everyone’s reports are helpful, as always.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:37 PM on February 11 [5 favorites]
I had unwelcome news today that my insurance company is denying my procedure on Thursday, on grounds of being an insurance company that doesn’t want to pay for it. I was initially upset (I don’t exactly enjoy this procedure but it has made a huge difference to my quality of life and pain and if it gets delayed that’s not ideal), but I have a good doctor with a good staff and one way or another we will get it figured out. I work in healthcare, so I am all too familiar with insurance denials. Thanks for letting me vent.
I went to work, came home, helped assemble dinner, and did some dishes.
Everyone’s reports are helpful, as always.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:37 PM on February 11 [5 favorites]
I have a beautiful snowy scene outside my window. It's consequently very quiet outside and inside, and I love it. I napped again.
I went to swim practice yesterday and was pleased with my outcomes. We probably will not have it tomorrow. I made slow cooker ropa vieja with flank steak.
The insulation is on the riser, and apparently next week they will patch and paint. When, who knows. I can get a lot more done then.
posted by jgirl at 8:10 PM on February 11 [4 favorites]
I went to swim practice yesterday and was pleased with my outcomes. We probably will not have it tomorrow. I made slow cooker ropa vieja with flank steak.
The insulation is on the riser, and apparently next week they will patch and paint. When, who knows. I can get a lot more done then.
posted by jgirl at 8:10 PM on February 11 [4 favorites]
Hooray for naps! I had a nap today too. Generally they leave me more groggy than when I started, but this one was actually a success.
posted by inexorably_forward at 8:17 PM on February 11 [3 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 8:17 PM on February 11 [3 favorites]
12th Feb:
Inside: Cleared out old food from fridge.
Outside: Pulled up a plant I don't like.
Life admin: Downloaded a tax document.
posted by inexorably_forward at 11:25 PM on February 11 [3 favorites]
Inside: Cleared out old food from fridge.
Outside: Pulled up a plant I don't like.
Life admin: Downloaded a tax document.
posted by inexorably_forward at 11:25 PM on February 11 [3 favorites]
11 Feb:
Inside: Finally painted the wall where I repaired the damage the plumbers did. Looks good!
Admin: Renewed the stickers for our cars.
posted by mmoncur at 4:11 AM on February 12 [4 favorites]
Inside: Finally painted the wall where I repaired the damage the plumbers did. Looks good!
Admin: Renewed the stickers for our cars.
posted by mmoncur at 4:11 AM on February 12 [4 favorites]
Filled the bird feeder, went through part of the basement culling items for recycling/donation (made a noticeable dent), did some laundry. Had a follow up phone call about the difficult emails/thing to get scheduled. Reached out to two friends with birthday wishes.
Slow cooker ropa vieja sounds delicious!
I am vicariously appreciating other people’s naps; we are having the sort of grey, oppressive, damp, chilly weather which makes me want to pull the blanket over my head and sleep, but that’s not an option at work.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:34 PM on February 12 [4 favorites]
Slow cooker ropa vieja sounds delicious!
I am vicariously appreciating other people’s naps; we are having the sort of grey, oppressive, damp, chilly weather which makes me want to pull the blanket over my head and sleep, but that’s not an option at work.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:34 PM on February 12 [4 favorites]
13th Feb:
Inside: Did two loads of laundry.
Outside: Pulled a weed.
Life admin: Filled out questionnaire for a medical procedure I'm having next week.
posted by inexorably_forward at 12:07 AM on February 13 [3 favorites]
Inside: Did two loads of laundry.
Outside: Pulled a weed.
Life admin: Filled out questionnaire for a medical procedure I'm having next week.
posted by inexorably_forward at 12:07 AM on February 13 [3 favorites]
Good morning, GSDers. Got back yesterday from a few days in Cornwall staying with my aunt and uncle, so not too much GSD to report except for doing that - I'm not a big fan of going away, but wanted to connect with relatives. We did a good walk along the coast; I find something restorative about different landscapes. And ate blackcurrant and chocolate cake, which I may have to try to replicate in a less posh way. Finished a book I'd got a bit stuck on, a biography of Nan Shepherd. Continued very brightly-coloured crochet (I didn't need to take all fifteen balls of wool, as it turned out); it is quite startling by daylight. Collected family members' birthdays; my other aunt, who died recently, was the one who connected us all and always sent cards, so I'm trying to be a bit more like her.
As always, impressed by everyone's achievements (particularly the successful nap), and sympathising with those who forgot or otherwise struggled with things.
kyraU2, would love the black bean soup recipe if you have a link. I had some absolutely delicious soup whilst away, celeriac, apple, lemongrass and cocoanut. I am going to try making it, though can't find an exactly similar recipe.
I am still pleased with myself for getting my iPad screen mended, which I found it hard to work up to. It turns out I can (sometimes) get things done and make life better for myself!
posted by paduasoy at 1:07 AM on February 13 [5 favorites]
As always, impressed by everyone's achievements (particularly the successful nap), and sympathising with those who forgot or otherwise struggled with things.
kyraU2, would love the black bean soup recipe if you have a link. I had some absolutely delicious soup whilst away, celeriac, apple, lemongrass and cocoanut. I am going to try making it, though can't find an exactly similar recipe.
I am still pleased with myself for getting my iPad screen mended, which I found it hard to work up to. It turns out I can (sometimes) get things done and make life better for myself!
posted by paduasoy at 1:07 AM on February 13 [5 favorites]
Not done a huge amount today. Sat with cat, contacted company about a laptop repair, sent an email I had been putting off, sent another to tell elderly friend who is very negative that I can't go away with her as she would like (it would be terrible, I would dissipate into a cloud of stress and noxious gasses, though that's not what I told her), did some washing, unpacked. Meant to do more, but it's probably ok to take it easily today.
posted by paduasoy at 2:14 PM on February 13 [2 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 2:14 PM on February 13 [2 favorites]
I did a monster grocery shop today. That's pretty much it.
posted by nuclear bessel at 3:49 PM on February 13 [3 favorites]
posted by nuclear bessel at 3:49 PM on February 13 [3 favorites]
Not done a huge amount today.
And then you list 5 things you did today. Your standard is very high! I do understand what you mean when you say you meant to do more, though. Overall you're doing well above average, imo.
I am done with my week of (mild) terror, as the scary/not scary medical appointment and the dentist are now over with. I had no cavities (surprised), but definitely gingivitis and must get a water pick (pik?). Also regular dental floss because my hygienist, Robert, said it is better than floss picks. Undecided if I will go for flavored or plain.
I figured out some more editing processes. But also made the mistake of reading too much/any news recently. Yeesh.
nuclear bessel would you like to reveal which musical instrument you are practicing? (not required)
Hope everybody had positive blood test results.
Thanks for the camaraderie* (or other similar word that fits better), everyone.
*Yes, I had to look up the spelling of camaraderie. That is just silly.
posted by Glinn at 4:08 PM on February 13 [4 favorites]
And then you list 5 things you did today. Your standard is very high! I do understand what you mean when you say you meant to do more, though. Overall you're doing well above average, imo.
I am done with my week of (mild) terror, as the scary/not scary medical appointment and the dentist are now over with. I had no cavities (surprised), but definitely gingivitis and must get a water pick (pik?). Also regular dental floss because my hygienist, Robert, said it is better than floss picks. Undecided if I will go for flavored or plain.
I figured out some more editing processes. But also made the mistake of reading too much/any news recently. Yeesh.
nuclear bessel would you like to reveal which musical instrument you are practicing? (not required)
Hope everybody had positive blood test results.
Thanks for the camaraderie* (or other similar word that fits better), everyone.
*Yes, I had to look up the spelling of camaraderie. That is just silly.
posted by Glinn at 4:08 PM on February 13 [4 favorites]
I feel like a massive grocery shop is enough for one day!
Glad you are home, paduasoy.
I think tomorrow might be Woody Guthrie day????
Today:
Outside: threw out some scraps for the critters. Ran back inside because it’s cold.
Inside: dust mopped and wet mopped the bedroom floor. Dislodged a fair few dust bunnies and a LOT of cat toys. Bathroom got a quick once over. Made easy pantry soup (paduasoy, I’ll get you the black bean soup recipe). Cleared up from making soup.
Admin: email about scheduling an appointment, and another conversation with my doctor’s office about the procedure that had to be cancelled today. Paid an online bill-noteworthy because it’s been difficult getting online payment to work with this company for way too long.
Communication: caught up with some people via text and phone.
Unexpected: my massage therapist had a cancellation today, so I went for a massage. They were able to mitigate some of the discomfort I’m experiencing due to not having my procedure. I am so grateful.
No cavities!
And please, everyone, feel free to just call me Kyra, as it’s quicker to type.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:47 PM on February 13 [4 favorites]
Glad you are home, paduasoy.
I think tomorrow might be Woody Guthrie day????
Today:
Outside: threw out some scraps for the critters. Ran back inside because it’s cold.
Inside: dust mopped and wet mopped the bedroom floor. Dislodged a fair few dust bunnies and a LOT of cat toys. Bathroom got a quick once over. Made easy pantry soup (paduasoy, I’ll get you the black bean soup recipe). Cleared up from making soup.
Admin: email about scheduling an appointment, and another conversation with my doctor’s office about the procedure that had to be cancelled today. Paid an online bill-noteworthy because it’s been difficult getting online payment to work with this company for way too long.
Communication: caught up with some people via text and phone.
Unexpected: my massage therapist had a cancellation today, so I went for a massage. They were able to mitigate some of the discomfort I’m experiencing due to not having my procedure. I am so grateful.
No cavities!
And please, everyone, feel free to just call me Kyra, as it’s quicker to type.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:47 PM on February 13 [4 favorites]
Yes, the news does not tend to be helpful to GSD. Glad your week of mild terror is over, Glinn. What critters do you have outside, Kyra? A friend suggested I do the 54321 exercise (five things you can see four you can hear etc) whilst I was away, which I partly did - there are many more birds singing in rural Cornwall than I'm used to. Suspect there were more beasts too (the village is known for badgers), but didn't see any.
posted by paduasoy at 10:59 PM on February 13 [2 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 10:59 PM on February 13 [2 favorites]
14th Feb:
Inside: Caught up on dishes.
Outside: Pulled a couple of weeds.
Life admin: Downloaded some tax info.
posted by inexorably_forward at 4:44 AM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Inside: Caught up on dishes.
Outside: Pulled a couple of weeds.
Life admin: Downloaded some tax info.
posted by inexorably_forward at 4:44 AM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Today is a have-to-do day instead of a have-done day; I have to:
Inside: take out the cardboard boxes that have piled up near the back door during our snowstorm, now that the back stairs are cleared.
Outside: go with my partner to his surgery follow-up where hopefully they will tell him he can, like, move and lift things again
Life Admin: make dinner reservations for tomorrow and plan something for my mother's birthday.
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 6:32 AM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Inside: take out the cardboard boxes that have piled up near the back door during our snowstorm, now that the back stairs are cleared.
Outside: go with my partner to his surgery follow-up where hopefully they will tell him he can, like, move and lift things again
Life Admin: make dinner reservations for tomorrow and plan something for my mother's birthday.
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 6:32 AM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Woody Guthrie the kitten arrived last week. He's still mostly hiding under the bed, but is warming up. We've played with toys, he's licked treats off my finger, and last night there was purring and skritching! There's been some amount of paws under the door and hissing with the other cats, which is part of the process.
I've been down with some flu-like illness (not covid) all week, so my to do list (and finch wardrobe) has suffered. I had previously taken today off for a fun activity with friends, but I'm bailing on that because of being under the weather, but also feeling better, so I am hopeful I can get a bunch of delayed shit done today!
posted by gingerbeer at 11:44 AM on February 14 [5 favorites]
I've been down with some flu-like illness (not covid) all week, so my to do list (and finch wardrobe) has suffered. I had previously taken today off for a fun activity with friends, but I'm bailing on that because of being under the weather, but also feeling better, so I am hopeful I can get a bunch of delayed shit done today!
posted by gingerbeer at 11:44 AM on February 14 [5 favorites]
I live in the States, in the Midwest. Our house is inside the city limits but not urban. Technically one would call it a suburb but until 20-30 years ago the land in my area was mostly undeveloped and/or had been farmland. We have a treeline behind our house that’s bigger than your average suburban development.
Number one, squirrels. These entertain/torment the cats, as do the birds. Also: raccoons, skunks, rabbits, opossums, mice, benign snakes, groundhogs, probably small rodents such as voles although I’ve not seen any, the occasional chipmunk, deer, and coyotes.
I’ll need to consult my bird guide but in my yard/neighborhood I have seen: blue jays, robins (I gather these are not the same as your robins), chickadees (I think Carolina), sparrows, woodpeckers, turkey vultures, a few different species of raptors (here is where I need my book), mourning doves, dark eyed juncos, cardinals, crows, goldfinches, other finches, and that’s all I can recall off the top of my head.
posted by kyraU2 at 11:46 AM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Number one, squirrels. These entertain/torment the cats, as do the birds. Also: raccoons, skunks, rabbits, opossums, mice, benign snakes, groundhogs, probably small rodents such as voles although I’ve not seen any, the occasional chipmunk, deer, and coyotes.
I’ll need to consult my bird guide but in my yard/neighborhood I have seen: blue jays, robins (I gather these are not the same as your robins), chickadees (I think Carolina), sparrows, woodpeckers, turkey vultures, a few different species of raptors (here is where I need my book), mourning doves, dark eyed juncos, cardinals, crows, goldfinches, other finches, and that’s all I can recall off the top of my head.
posted by kyraU2 at 11:46 AM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Dishes are a satisfactory thing to get done, inexorably_forward. I've got that booked in for tomorrow.
We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese, hope your partner is mending.
What a very handsome kitten! Massive eyes and massive noggin.
Thanks for the list, Kyra. Will have to look some of those up. Not sure about robin difference, but this is one I saw close up this week. My aunt thought he was puffing himself up to see us off. Around here, we mostly have foxes, pigeons, seagulls, crows, cats and dogs, and the odd horse - that's about it. Probably invisible rats.
Today - decided the main thing on my task list was to be on go slow, which was achieved, particularly through sitting with cat. I also did some crochet (amigurumi Taylor Swift for niece) and went to a museum.
posted by paduasoy at 1:23 PM on February 14 [2 favorites]
We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese, hope your partner is mending.
What a very handsome kitten! Massive eyes and massive noggin.
Thanks for the list, Kyra. Will have to look some of those up. Not sure about robin difference, but this is one I saw close up this week. My aunt thought he was puffing himself up to see us off. Around here, we mostly have foxes, pigeons, seagulls, crows, cats and dogs, and the odd horse - that's about it. Probably invisible rats.
Today - decided the main thing on my task list was to be on go slow, which was achieved, particularly through sitting with cat. I also did some crochet (amigurumi Taylor Swift for niece) and went to a museum.
posted by paduasoy at 1:23 PM on February 14 [2 favorites]
Off to an all-night party, so no tasks today. Wheeee!
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:01 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 3:01 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
Working on a quick dinner of air fryer chicken chunks, rice, and a packet of mixed frozen veggies. During some of the downtime of that (which wasn’t much!) I replaced a couple of the Big Light bulbs in the basement which had burned out. If you saw my strongly held opinions in the Big Light thread, you’d understand how irritated that the second bulb had gone out in one of the overhead lights this morning, and Something Needed To Be Done.
posted by notoriety public at 5:09 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
posted by notoriety public at 5:09 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
Glinn, I play the piano. Not well, yet, but I am enjoying it.
I was going to do a thing today, but then found that the office closed at noon, which coincidentally was the time I was looking that up. So, having Taskus Interruptus, did diddly squat the rest of the afternoon. Now I am annoyed at myself.
On a more positive note, my blood test results were better than I expected (A1C).
posted by nuclear bessel at 5:17 PM on February 14 [4 favorites]
I was going to do a thing today, but then found that the office closed at noon, which coincidentally was the time I was looking that up. So, having Taskus Interruptus, did diddly squat the rest of the afternoon. Now I am annoyed at myself.
On a more positive note, my blood test results were better than I expected (A1C).
posted by nuclear bessel at 5:17 PM on February 14 [4 favorites]
Hi everyone. Hope all is well with you.
I did end up picking up the dry cleaning and the Girl Scout cookies. In addition, did some laundry, dishes, and I scheduled 1 drs' appt. The other ones I have to schedule during the day so I'll be doing that tomorrow if the offices are open.
Ordered some things that needed ordering. Tomorrow is grocery/farmers market shop day.
posted by toastyk at 7:51 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
I did end up picking up the dry cleaning and the Girl Scout cookies. In addition, did some laundry, dishes, and I scheduled 1 drs' appt. The other ones I have to schedule during the day so I'll be doing that tomorrow if the offices are open.
Ordered some things that needed ordering. Tomorrow is grocery/farmers market shop day.
posted by toastyk at 7:51 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
I forgot the ubiquitous Canadian geese! We have a year-round population.
We haven’t seen a fox in a while, but we hope there are still some in the area.
Today I worked, talked to a friend, dropped off/picked up library books, went to the hardware store, and had a theatre outing with a friend. And posted a lot of bird names here.
I hope everyone with medical Things is doing as well as possible.
I must go look up the Big Lights, notoriety public.
posted by kyraU2 at 8:23 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
We haven’t seen a fox in a while, but we hope there are still some in the area.
Today I worked, talked to a friend, dropped off/picked up library books, went to the hardware store, and had a theatre outing with a friend. And posted a lot of bird names here.
I hope everyone with medical Things is doing as well as possible.
I must go look up the Big Lights, notoriety public.
posted by kyraU2 at 8:23 PM on February 14 [3 favorites]
Big GSD task just completed today: Running an ethernet cable to my new downstairs computer setup. This was emotionally important to me. This kind of thing was something the former housemate would generally do. It is important to me to do it myself. Several firsts for me:
- Drilling a hole through a wood floor (actually three, I guessed badly the first two times)
- Cutting a hole in drywall
- Running cable between floors
- Crimping a cable (got it right on the first attempt! Woo!)
- Tacking a cable run along the ceiling
And while I was getting a reasonable 100Mbit over WiFi down here after putting in a repeater, having the direct ethernet run brings it up to 940Mbit!
posted by notoriety public at 1:28 PM on February 15 [6 favorites]
- Drilling a hole through a wood floor (actually three, I guessed badly the first two times)
- Cutting a hole in drywall
- Running cable between floors
- Crimping a cable (got it right on the first attempt! Woo!)
- Tacking a cable run along the ceiling
And while I was getting a reasonable 100Mbit over WiFi down here after putting in a repeater, having the direct ethernet run brings it up to 940Mbit!
posted by notoriety public at 1:28 PM on February 15 [6 favorites]
That is extremely impressive, notoriety public!
I am doing laundry, and I put away all the clothes and made the bed, with no help from the cats. Decided for no good reason that I wanted to hear Shakedown Street and now I'm deep into Donna Godchaux-era Dead. Made a vet appointment for the cats (unrelated to their unhelpfulness with the bed.) Bailed on going to the Chinese new year parade because I'm still a bit under the weather (also had to cancel extremely fun thing with friends that was planned for yesterday) so trying to use the time to get more shit done.
posted by gingerbeer at 3:51 PM on February 15 [4 favorites]
I am doing laundry, and I put away all the clothes and made the bed, with no help from the cats. Decided for no good reason that I wanted to hear Shakedown Street and now I'm deep into Donna Godchaux-era Dead. Made a vet appointment for the cats (unrelated to their unhelpfulness with the bed.) Bailed on going to the Chinese new year parade because I'm still a bit under the weather (also had to cancel extremely fun thing with friends that was planned for yesterday) so trying to use the time to get more shit done.
posted by gingerbeer at 3:51 PM on February 15 [4 favorites]
Another pretty good Saturday. I got most of the seed potatoes into the ground, and laundry done, and some progress on four different craft projects. Tomorrow should be gardening, crafts, and cooking. Someday I will actually finish a craft, but not this week.
posted by mersen at 7:22 PM on February 15 [3 favorites]
posted by mersen at 7:22 PM on February 15 [3 favorites]
16th Feb:
Inside: Roasted and blended some tomatoes into delicious goo.
Outside: Added oxyshock to spa pool.
Life admin: Found paperwork that I need for an appointment tomorrow and put it in bag next to door.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:22 AM on February 16 [3 favorites]
Inside: Roasted and blended some tomatoes into delicious goo.
Outside: Added oxyshock to spa pool.
Life admin: Found paperwork that I need for an appointment tomorrow and put it in bag next to door.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:22 AM on February 16 [3 favorites]
Wow, I am impressed by that, notoriety public. All those stages - all that planning and follow-through!
gingerbeer, your comment about the vet made me laugh. And now I need to see a skit where someone takes their cats to the vet because of lack of helpfulness. Mine has just got on my lap when I really need to get up to look at baking to see if it's done. Choice between indignant cat or burnt cake.
Four craft projects sounds good. I have a friend who starts a project, finishes it and starts a new one, finishes that ... I find this odd.
Yesterday - washing-up, cooked a meal to eat with a friend, crocheted.
posted by paduasoy at 2:51 AM on February 16 [2 favorites]
gingerbeer, your comment about the vet made me laugh. And now I need to see a skit where someone takes their cats to the vet because of lack of helpfulness. Mine has just got on my lap when I really need to get up to look at baking to see if it's done. Choice between indignant cat or burnt cake.
Four craft projects sounds good. I have a friend who starts a project, finishes it and starts a new one, finishes that ... I find this odd.
Yesterday - washing-up, cooked a meal to eat with a friend, crocheted.
posted by paduasoy at 2:51 AM on February 16 [2 favorites]
wow notoriety public, that is truly inspiring.
I got a free tv from my neighbor a couple months ago and have not plugged it in yet. I think I need to plug it into the cable, and I found the cable. So I have to do that. Though, I think I will need a Roku or related controller. I could read up on it and then I would know. Or I could just ask my ex, because we are friends and he is a computer/electronics guy.
I did a lot of drawing this weekend. I want to post a sketchbook tour but this sketchbook has a handful of empty pages left. Which is fine, there is no rule it has to be 100% filled, but I thought I would try to finish it.
I did laundry and dishes. The dishes actually went 3 days. I think the last time I reported they had gone 2 days. Everything is just so worrisome, recently. 3 days will have to do sometimes. I think that is fine.
posted by Glinn at 3:39 PM on February 16 [4 favorites]
I got a free tv from my neighbor a couple months ago and have not plugged it in yet. I think I need to plug it into the cable, and I found the cable. So I have to do that. Though, I think I will need a Roku or related controller. I could read up on it and then I would know. Or I could just ask my ex, because we are friends and he is a computer/electronics guy.
I did a lot of drawing this weekend. I want to post a sketchbook tour but this sketchbook has a handful of empty pages left. Which is fine, there is no rule it has to be 100% filled, but I thought I would try to finish it.
I did laundry and dishes. The dishes actually went 3 days. I think the last time I reported they had gone 2 days. Everything is just so worrisome, recently. 3 days will have to do sometimes. I think that is fine.
posted by Glinn at 3:39 PM on February 16 [4 favorites]
I last posted on Tuesday. We did have swim practice on Wednesday, and of course on Friday. I've done laundry and dishes, but a lot of cleaning is going to wait until after the wall patching and painting.
I did a big bad scary admin thing, and admin stuff is only going to get more bad and scary. I did some socializing, and that counts as getting something done as well.
Congratulations to all on good work done this past week! I am so glad we are all in one anothers' corner.
posted by jgirl at 5:38 PM on February 16 [4 favorites]
I did a big bad scary admin thing, and admin stuff is only going to get more bad and scary. I did some socializing, and that counts as getting something done as well.
Congratulations to all on good work done this past week! I am so glad we are all in one anothers' corner.
posted by jgirl at 5:38 PM on February 16 [4 favorites]
Indeed, 3 days between dishes sometimes has to do, and it worked! Back from 3 weeks away and the second load of laundry is in the dryer, the snow is cleared off the car, clean dishwasher emptied, houseplants tended, and fresh groceries obtained. And now I've read all of your GSD for the last few weeks, too, and am inspired! While I'm more likely to get cabin fever than itch to putter around the house, puttering at home and GSD sounds Great right now (along with lots of fruit and veg, my own bed, etc). Thanks for keeping these threads going with your fine work, y'all!
posted by ldthomps at 6:17 PM on February 16 [3 favorites]
posted by ldthomps at 6:17 PM on February 16 [3 favorites]
Yesterday - made chocolate banana bread for niece; made shortbread; crocheted; made decisions with my sister about finance for my father's funeral; organised laptop repair. Am behind with chores. Added a goal suggested by Finch of doing five minutes of house tidying or cleaning every day.
posted by paduasoy at 12:21 AM on February 17 [3 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 12:21 AM on February 17 [3 favorites]
16th Feb:
Inside: Laundry.
Outside: Cleaned spa pool filters.
Life admin: Made a list of things I need to do tomorrow morning. Sometimes that's as far as it gets.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:35 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
Inside: Laundry.
Outside: Cleaned spa pool filters.
Life admin: Made a list of things I need to do tomorrow morning. Sometimes that's as far as it gets.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:35 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
17th Feb: After 25 years, I have washed and dried and folded the last of my offspring’s baby clothes and still-sound blankets. Held once more for the sensory memory of that time, then released into the world so some other parent and child can have use of them. One small box for humankind, a giant leap for me.
posted by Nancy_LockIsLit_Palmer at 3:56 AM on February 17 [12 favorites]
posted by Nancy_LockIsLit_Palmer at 3:56 AM on February 17 [12 favorites]
Glinn, you are so kind here, so let us return the favor. If the dishes go three days, they go three days. No judgement!
I am also very impressed by your project, notoriety public.
Was it the cake or the cat, paduasoy?????
Speaking of food, the soup recipe I want to share is a New York Times recipe, so maybe behind a paywall?
I skipped the pickled onions but am sure they would be an excellent garnish. I used toasted pumpkin seeds/pepitas instead.
Over the weekend:
Filled bird feeder, swept front steps
Cleaned out a corner of the basement
Sorted through more paperwork odds and ends
Dusted the bookshelves downstairs, which led to sorting out things that don’t live on the bookshelves
Mr Kyra vacuumed
Laundry
Cooked a cold weather favorite white bean dish, very simple, mostly just beans, onion, water, seasoning, bacon, and maple syrup.
Had a call with my traveling friends; there are in Cambodia at the moment.
Off to work now. Hope everyone is well.
posted by kyraU2 at 7:29 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
I am also very impressed by your project, notoriety public.
Was it the cake or the cat, paduasoy?????
Speaking of food, the soup recipe I want to share is a New York Times recipe, so maybe behind a paywall?
I skipped the pickled onions but am sure they would be an excellent garnish. I used toasted pumpkin seeds/pepitas instead.
Over the weekend:
Filled bird feeder, swept front steps
Cleaned out a corner of the basement
Sorted through more paperwork odds and ends
Dusted the bookshelves downstairs, which led to sorting out things that don’t live on the bookshelves
Mr Kyra vacuumed
Laundry
Cooked a cold weather favorite white bean dish, very simple, mostly just beans, onion, water, seasoning, bacon, and maple syrup.
Had a call with my traveling friends; there are in Cambodia at the moment.
Off to work now. Hope everyone is well.
posted by kyraU2 at 7:29 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
As a fellow subscriber, I'd just gone to save Kyra's black bean soup for us to make sometime, so here it is for anyone who couldn't otherwise access it:
1 large white onion, peeled
2 limes, 1 halved and 1 cut into wedges
1 ¾teaspoons kosher salt (Diamond Crystal or use ¾ teaspoon Morton), plus more to taste
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded if desired and minced
1 bunch cilantro, stems and leaves separated
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 (15.5-ounce) cans black beans, drained
1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
1 cup vegetable or chicken stock, plus more if needed
Step 1
Cut the white onion in half lengthwise and then cut lengthwise again into quarters. Thinly slice one quarter of the onion. Add slices to a small bowl and stir in the juice of ½ lime and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set aside for serving. Dice the remaining onion and reserve.
Step 2
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high. Once hot, add the oil. Add the diced onion and cook until tender and golden at the edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
Step 3
Stir in the jalapeño. Mince ¼ cup cilantro stems and add to the pan. Cook until the jalapeño and cilantro stems are tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin seeds, black pepper and remaining 1½ teaspoons salt. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until the tomato paste darkens.
Step 4
Add in the black beans, coconut milk and stock. Bring to a boil and lower heat to a simmer. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mixture is thick.
Step 5
Use an immersion blender or blender to purée the soup until half-smooth and still a little chunky. Add more stock if you want a brothier soup.
Step 6
Stir in the juice of the remaining lime half and ½ cup of chopped cilantro leaves. Taste and add more salt and lime juice as needed. Serve topped with the pickled onions and more chopped cilantro, and with lime wedges alongside.
posted by ldthomps at 10:57 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
1 large white onion, peeled
2 limes, 1 halved and 1 cut into wedges
1 ¾teaspoons kosher salt (Diamond Crystal or use ¾ teaspoon Morton), plus more to taste
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded if desired and minced
1 bunch cilantro, stems and leaves separated
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 (15.5-ounce) cans black beans, drained
1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
1 cup vegetable or chicken stock, plus more if needed
Step 1
Cut the white onion in half lengthwise and then cut lengthwise again into quarters. Thinly slice one quarter of the onion. Add slices to a small bowl and stir in the juice of ½ lime and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set aside for serving. Dice the remaining onion and reserve.
Step 2
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high. Once hot, add the oil. Add the diced onion and cook until tender and golden at the edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
Step 3
Stir in the jalapeño. Mince ¼ cup cilantro stems and add to the pan. Cook until the jalapeño and cilantro stems are tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin seeds, black pepper and remaining 1½ teaspoons salt. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until the tomato paste darkens.
Step 4
Add in the black beans, coconut milk and stock. Bring to a boil and lower heat to a simmer. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mixture is thick.
Step 5
Use an immersion blender or blender to purée the soup until half-smooth and still a little chunky. Add more stock if you want a brothier soup.
Step 6
Stir in the juice of the remaining lime half and ½ cup of chopped cilantro leaves. Taste and add more salt and lime juice as needed. Serve topped with the pickled onions and more chopped cilantro, and with lime wedges alongside.
posted by ldthomps at 10:57 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
18th Feb:
Going in for a medical procedure, wish me luck.
posted by inexorably_forward at 11:40 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
Going in for a medical procedure, wish me luck.
posted by inexorably_forward at 11:40 AM on February 17 [4 favorites]
I didn't have the energy today to tackle cleaning out my old bedroom, even though that was what I had scheduled to do. I fell back to another task which needed doing, a complete dump-and-refill litter change for all the litterboxes. Since I have six cats (plus a temporary foster), this is a lot of boxes. An additional thing I took care of, was that the ex-housemate had left behind the two nasty "litter cabinet" things which I utterly hated. The cats would occasionally pee outside the box in them, and they were impossible to get entirely clean again. So I finally disassembled those things and threw them away.
posted by notoriety public at 11:41 AM on February 17 [2 favorites]
posted by notoriety public at 11:41 AM on February 17 [2 favorites]
I threw the cat to the lions and rescued the cake! Which was fortunate, as my sister had forgotten cake for niece's 18th birthday, so we had to make do with my not-intended-as-a-birthday-cake chocolate banana bread. We had no candles either, so balanced tea lights on it. Niece sent a picture of it to a friend, who responded "that is fucking tragic". I think niece was ok with it though.
I have certainly gone longer than 3 days without doing the washing up; I often do a bigger cooking project at the weekend, and it is not unknown for the washing up from that to be undone at the next weekend, if that helps. But I may not be the role model you want here. One of my tasks for this week is to try to mend my dishwasher.
Today - stressful work meeting, crocheted, sat with cat. Still struggling with chore motivation.
Thank you for soup recipe; it may be a bit hot for me, but I'd like to give it a go.
inexorably_forward, all good wishes for a swift recovery.
Goodness, notoriety public, that must be a lot of boxes. Well done.
Nancy_LockIsLit_Palmer, that is such a kind thing to do with those pieces of memory.
posted by paduasoy at 3:06 PM on February 17 [1 favorite]
I have certainly gone longer than 3 days without doing the washing up; I often do a bigger cooking project at the weekend, and it is not unknown for the washing up from that to be undone at the next weekend, if that helps. But I may not be the role model you want here. One of my tasks for this week is to try to mend my dishwasher.
Today - stressful work meeting, crocheted, sat with cat. Still struggling with chore motivation.
Thank you for soup recipe; it may be a bit hot for me, but I'd like to give it a go.
inexorably_forward, all good wishes for a swift recovery.
Goodness, notoriety public, that must be a lot of boxes. Well done.
Nancy_LockIsLit_Palmer, that is such a kind thing to do with those pieces of memory.
posted by paduasoy at 3:06 PM on February 17 [1 favorite]
I have alternated between being socially busy and having the blahs again. This weekend I did the dishes, picked up some clothes, unsuccessfully ironed (i.e. the iron did not get rid of any wrinkles) and then had the ironing board do in my foot. Otherwise I've worked on my lines and that's kinda it.
posted by jenfullmoon at 4:00 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 4:00 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
Nancy_LockIsLit_Palmer, releasing your baby things into the world sounds like a huge step to me. I hope you feel relief, rather than grief, for having done so.
inexorably_forward, I hope that your medical procedure goes as well as possible and your recovery is smooth.
Today I'm writing a card of condolence and then cleaning off my desk (again). It's still a bit of a dumping ground, and I think that I just have to set aside more time to deal with things as they come in rather than setting them aside to do later.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:57 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
inexorably_forward, I hope that your medical procedure goes as well as possible and your recovery is smooth.
Today I'm writing a card of condolence and then cleaning off my desk (again). It's still a bit of a dumping ground, and I think that I just have to set aside more time to deal with things as they come in rather than setting them aside to do later.
posted by nuclear bessel at 4:57 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
inexorably _forward: wishing you luck
Thanks to ldthomps for posting the recipe. I’d best brush up on proper link posting technique.
If you’re not a jalapeño person, you could certainly omit it, or substitute something more mild, and the soup will still be very good. The fresh coriander/cilantro and lime juice are key, however.
Nothing from the formal GSD list today and I’m fine with that.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:05 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
Thanks to ldthomps for posting the recipe. I’d best brush up on proper link posting technique.
If you’re not a jalapeño person, you could certainly omit it, or substitute something more mild, and the soup will still be very good. The fresh coriander/cilantro and lime juice are key, however.
Nothing from the formal GSD list today and I’m fine with that.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:05 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
I washed the sheets and terry towels, put pork loin in the slow cooker (had some for supper; it’s too dry but can be upcycled), and completed the bathroom quarterly cleaning. The other areas will have to wait until the wall is repaired and painted.
posted by jgirl at 6:41 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 6:41 PM on February 17 [4 favorites]
You guys are getting so much done! Kudos. Yesterday I was pretty productive - made more appointments, did multiple loads of dishes, another load of laundry, also froze my credit at two of the three credit agencies - the other one was having issues, and took the trash out.
posted by toastyk at 6:53 AM on February 18 [4 favorites]
posted by toastyk at 6:53 AM on February 18 [4 favorites]
Eeesh, sorry about your foot, jenfullmoon! And go you for rescuing the birthday cake, paduasoy, that sounds like a fun bit of pivoting, glad the niece appreciated it :). And good luck to all of the medical appts!
I've done a Lot of adulting to start making up for the last few weeks. Renewed mom's large print Reader's Digest subscription, paid the family gardening bill for the summer place and emailed my brother about his share, got mom more non-skid socks, figured out what I did wrong about one of mom's donations/memberships in Nov and got it fixed, checked mom's email and renewed a thing for her there, too - oh and called in an order of cut flowers to be delivered to mom, who's always loved flowers and hated February, pointing out that we're closer to April 1 than January 1. Contacted the only slightly sketchy folks about starting GLP-1s (my doc had said my insurance would require trying less efficacious drugs first; I've been ~healthy obese for 30 years, c'mon) and did ALL of my PT yesterday and today, which has been rare while frolicking. Did two more loads of laundry (making 4 since we got home Sun), helped rescue the outdoor trashcan from the iced-in fencing, called an elderly friend who's in hospice and found her sounding a lot better than she had in January, which was great. That reminds me that I should call another elderly friend in the hospital with cancer. One of these days I can maybe even get back to decluttering/sorting the old family photos, etc, but at least I feel like I'm making progress on the backlog.
posted by ldthomps at 10:52 AM on February 18 [5 favorites]
I've done a Lot of adulting to start making up for the last few weeks. Renewed mom's large print Reader's Digest subscription, paid the family gardening bill for the summer place and emailed my brother about his share, got mom more non-skid socks, figured out what I did wrong about one of mom's donations/memberships in Nov and got it fixed, checked mom's email and renewed a thing for her there, too - oh and called in an order of cut flowers to be delivered to mom, who's always loved flowers and hated February, pointing out that we're closer to April 1 than January 1. Contacted the only slightly sketchy folks about starting GLP-1s (my doc had said my insurance would require trying less efficacious drugs first; I've been ~healthy obese for 30 years, c'mon) and did ALL of my PT yesterday and today, which has been rare while frolicking. Did two more loads of laundry (making 4 since we got home Sun), helped rescue the outdoor trashcan from the iced-in fencing, called an elderly friend who's in hospice and found her sounding a lot better than she had in January, which was great. That reminds me that I should call another elderly friend in the hospital with cancer. One of these days I can maybe even get back to decluttering/sorting the old family photos, etc, but at least I feel like I'm making progress on the backlog.
posted by ldthomps at 10:52 AM on February 18 [5 favorites]
Last day of my chore sprint- I took today off so I could more easily handle the drop off and pickup times for my foster cat’s snip appointment. Which left a good chunk of time in between to go out to the burbs and get my emissions tested and plate sticker renewed, as well as visit my mom for lunch (its her birthday today as it happens). Also went with mom and stepdad to a notary to get my will updated, which has been needing doing for a couple months now.
The GSD List remains long, but I knocked out some big ticket items this weekend. I feel really good about it.
posted by notoriety public at 12:55 PM on February 18 [4 favorites]
The GSD List remains long, but I knocked out some big ticket items this weekend. I feel really good about it.
posted by notoriety public at 12:55 PM on February 18 [4 favorites]
Good to hear about everyone’s accomplishments. Knocking items off the list is great!
Hope all the medical things are as good as they can be.
Today I had an unusually long day at work, came home, fetched the mail, ate dinner, petted a cat, and talked to a friend who is having a hard time.
It’s early, but I am tired from said long day, and am going to get in bed with the heating pad. It’s cold outside, and my office is cold, and I am cold, even in all my layers and blanket. If I can just warm up my feet…
Perhaps tomorrow Things will be accomplished. Perhaps not! My chilled, insouciant self does not care!!!!
Be well, everyone.
posted by kyraU2 at 5:15 PM on February 18 [4 favorites]
Hope all the medical things are as good as they can be.
Today I had an unusually long day at work, came home, fetched the mail, ate dinner, petted a cat, and talked to a friend who is having a hard time.
It’s early, but I am tired from said long day, and am going to get in bed with the heating pad. It’s cold outside, and my office is cold, and I am cold, even in all my layers and blanket. If I can just warm up my feet…
Perhaps tomorrow Things will be accomplished. Perhaps not! My chilled, insouciant self does not care!!!!
Be well, everyone.
posted by kyraU2 at 5:15 PM on February 18 [4 favorites]
paduasoy, woooo, congrats on your excellent chocolate banana bread save! I always make mine with chocolate chips because of course. But I never thought about making a chocolate one - of course! On the other hand, I rarely make it (even with my slightly healthier vegan ingredients) because I will eat half of it before the next day. Sometimes I make one for the office (and make myself a mini one) - may be time to do that again.
jenfullmoon, I’m not sure if you meant the ironing board fell on your foot - but that is much, much better than the iron! Also it sounds like you did many things again but felt like you didn’t do much.
KyraU2, you have also said many nice things, and very much appreciated!
ldthomps - I had no idea Reader’s Digest was still a thing! So many nice things you’ve done for other people, with flowers and calling - that is just the best.
notoriety public, I have to do the emissions thing, thanks for the reminder. What a productive day off you had!
I have had a sore spot on my scalp since last week and when I wrote a note to my doc with the details, her nurse immediately called me and said, it sounds like Shingles. O.M.G. I got both of those shots! But, it is often caused by stress and I have had some medical stress (waiting on a test result that is probably fine!) and now this extra one, plus uncomfortable stuff happening at my office, plus I am foolishly keeping tabs on world news and that is probably the worst of all of it. I’ve also been low key nauseous for about a week, and sleeping even worse than my usual sleeping poorly. Gah. Sorry to complain about all that to you folks - clearly we all have so many things going on, both good and bad.
I did some laundry. I spent some time this weekend clearing kitchen counters because suddenly the art stuff seems pointless. I know it is not pointless! I finished an inked sketchbook page this weekend, which is something. Thank you everyone again for this thread. :-)
posted by Glinn at 5:37 PM on February 18 [4 favorites]
jenfullmoon, I’m not sure if you meant the ironing board fell on your foot - but that is much, much better than the iron! Also it sounds like you did many things again but felt like you didn’t do much.
KyraU2, you have also said many nice things, and very much appreciated!
ldthomps - I had no idea Reader’s Digest was still a thing! So many nice things you’ve done for other people, with flowers and calling - that is just the best.
notoriety public, I have to do the emissions thing, thanks for the reminder. What a productive day off you had!
I have had a sore spot on my scalp since last week and when I wrote a note to my doc with the details, her nurse immediately called me and said, it sounds like Shingles. O.M.G. I got both of those shots! But, it is often caused by stress and I have had some medical stress (waiting on a test result that is probably fine!) and now this extra one, plus uncomfortable stuff happening at my office, plus I am foolishly keeping tabs on world news and that is probably the worst of all of it. I’ve also been low key nauseous for about a week, and sleeping even worse than my usual sleeping poorly. Gah. Sorry to complain about all that to you folks - clearly we all have so many things going on, both good and bad.
I did some laundry. I spent some time this weekend clearing kitchen counters because suddenly the art stuff seems pointless. I know it is not pointless! I finished an inked sketchbook page this weekend, which is something. Thank you everyone again for this thread. :-)
posted by Glinn at 5:37 PM on February 18 [4 favorites]
Chocolate banana bread is yum, also chocolate pumpkin bread!
jenfullmoon, I'm taking your experience as a lesson to never iron, which is probably not how it should be taken, but.
The medical procedure went ok, and I'm home now. Thanks for the good wishes, everybody! Having a recovery day today, maybe tomorrow too.
Glinn, complaining is completely fine!
posted by inexorably_forward at 9:48 PM on February 18 [6 favorites]
jenfullmoon, I'm taking your experience as a lesson to never iron, which is probably not how it should be taken, but.
The medical procedure went ok, and I'm home now. Thanks for the good wishes, everybody! Having a recovery day today, maybe tomorrow too.
Glinn, complaining is completely fine!
posted by inexorably_forward at 9:48 PM on February 18 [6 favorites]
Seriously, NEVER IRON! They don't work, they require distilled water and I don't have that crap around the house, and they can injure you!
My toe is less hurty today but looks utterly disgusting.
posted by jenfullmoon at 10:38 PM on February 18 [6 favorites]
My toe is less hurty today but looks utterly disgusting.
posted by jenfullmoon at 10:38 PM on February 18 [6 favorites]
Oh no, Glinn, really sorry about shingles. And your foot, jenfullmoon. Hope recovery is going well, inexorably_forward.
Chocolate banana bread - I think it's the cocoa that makes it. Complex mouthfeel.
posted by paduasoy at 12:13 AM on February 19 [2 favorites]
Chocolate banana bread - I think it's the cocoa that makes it. Complex mouthfeel.
posted by paduasoy at 12:13 AM on February 19 [2 favorites]
It's doing better, albeit now I have a bunch of blood blisters on it. I didn't even know that was A Thing.
posted by jenfullmoon at 7:59 AM on February 19 [3 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 7:59 AM on February 19 [3 favorites]
Oh no, Glinn, I hope the shots mean you can get rid of the shingles quickly! Take a step away from the news if needed for your health.
posted by ldthomps at 12:24 PM on February 19 [2 favorites]
posted by ldthomps at 12:24 PM on February 19 [2 favorites]
Thank you all! It was not shingles, woo! This is a relief as I made the mistake of reading up on shingles. It's likely migraine related occipital neuralgia. Sounds bad but ibuprofen does the trick. Apologies if tmi. Yes, I must step away from the news and have been trying.
I had my doctor's appointment, I had both dogs groomed (I have to get some clippers, it is too expensive) but it is a relief to get it done. Cleaned up kitchen a bit, will probably paint something and/or watch a nice movie.
Avoiding news last night I watched the sweetest movie Quartet, with Maggie Smith and Billy Connolly, and just a great cast - about a retirement home for musicians, based on a real place.
I hope everyone's feet and other parts are doing fine!
posted by Glinn at 3:59 PM on February 19 [7 favorites]
I had my doctor's appointment, I had both dogs groomed (I have to get some clippers, it is too expensive) but it is a relief to get it done. Cleaned up kitchen a bit, will probably paint something and/or watch a nice movie.
Avoiding news last night I watched the sweetest movie Quartet, with Maggie Smith and Billy Connolly, and just a great cast - about a retirement home for musicians, based on a real place.
I hope everyone's feet and other parts are doing fine!
posted by Glinn at 3:59 PM on February 19 [7 favorites]
Hooray for no shingles!
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:28 AM on February 20 [2 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:28 AM on February 20 [2 favorites]
Glinn, I've had shingles, and I am so glad you don't!
"Management" has plastered and painted after busting up the wall. Less than 24 hours later, some of it is falling down. The apartment is covered with dust.
I need to do some scary admin stuff, laundry, and aggressively let "management" know my thoughts on their upending my life for five months.
It's great to see everyone making progress!
posted by jgirl at 7:57 AM on February 20 [3 favorites]
"Management" has plastered and painted after busting up the wall. Less than 24 hours later, some of it is falling down. The apartment is covered with dust.
I need to do some scary admin stuff, laundry, and aggressively let "management" know my thoughts on their upending my life for five months.
It's great to see everyone making progress!
posted by jgirl at 7:57 AM on February 20 [3 favorites]
I’m glad to hear glinn doesn’t have shingles, and inexorably_forward’s procedure went okay. I have never enjoyed ironing, and jenfullmoon’s story confirms my bias. How are the blood blisters and the ouch?
Yesterday I went to work, checked on a friend who is ill, and that’s about it. In our efforts to incorporate more art into our life, we watched the 2019 production of “Present Laughter” on the National Theatre streaming service. Andrew Scott is a heck of an actor.
Today I had a not scary medical appointment and ran errands (grocery). Laundry may happen. I started reading a book my therapist recommended. Filled the bird feeder and did a bit of picking up and putting away. Resting is on my agenda today. Oh, and adjusting the Amazon standing orders-which I’m going to do next. I found a reliable local source for items I had previously only been able to get from Amazon, and the less I use Amazon, the better I feel. Plus, the store is a regional, family owned grocery, recently open, and convenient to my work commute. So off I go.
posted by kyraU2 at 12:13 PM on February 20 [4 favorites]
Yesterday I went to work, checked on a friend who is ill, and that’s about it. In our efforts to incorporate more art into our life, we watched the 2019 production of “Present Laughter” on the National Theatre streaming service. Andrew Scott is a heck of an actor.
Today I had a not scary medical appointment and ran errands (grocery). Laundry may happen. I started reading a book my therapist recommended. Filled the bird feeder and did a bit of picking up and putting away. Resting is on my agenda today. Oh, and adjusting the Amazon standing orders-which I’m going to do next. I found a reliable local source for items I had previously only been able to get from Amazon, and the less I use Amazon, the better I feel. Plus, the store is a regional, family owned grocery, recently open, and convenient to my work commute. So off I go.
posted by kyraU2 at 12:13 PM on February 20 [4 favorites]
Because everything happens at once, I just got home from having a wisdom tooth pulled. I knew this was coming up but didn't think they'd be able to get me in this soon. So it's more recovery for me, feh.
I mean, I'm quite capable of lazing about but having it forced upon one is different.
As far as GSD goes, I'm not in a bad position to get nothing done for a little bit, thanks to the encouragement from these threads and all you excellent people. So thank you!
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:22 PM on February 20 [3 favorites]
I mean, I'm quite capable of lazing about but having it forced upon one is different.
As far as GSD goes, I'm not in a bad position to get nothing done for a little bit, thanks to the encouragement from these threads and all you excellent people. So thank you!
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:22 PM on February 20 [3 favorites]
Well, the blood blister deflated after icing it last night. Now it looks more like a giant gouge has been taken out of my toe. It doesn't really hurt to walk any more, but I'm not doing more than incidental walking this week, just in case. I've been living out of my most beat up shoes for a few days and I ended up having to do rehearsal in socks yesterday because my foot would not handle anything brushing up against the top. I'm hoping that by tonight when I attempt to put on more tight fitting shoes, I'll be able to do so if my toe isn't 4 sizes bigger than usual, but we'll see.
I have only been home long enough to make messes at my house (my nicely put together hanger rack for pants fell down last night, so there's yet another mess) and with no time to clean them up of late. I feel so piggy. I kinda snapped at people for asking if I'd put it up above my head with ice. "I have 15 minutes between getting up and going to work, then I immediately have to leave for rehearsal when I get out of work, then immediately go to bed when I get home, with what time, please?" I tried it last night, anyway, but the longer the week goes, the more stuff I need to do and no time to do it until oh, Monday.
posted by jenfullmoon at 2:41 PM on February 20 [1 favorite]
I have only been home long enough to make messes at my house (my nicely put together hanger rack for pants fell down last night, so there's yet another mess) and with no time to clean them up of late. I feel so piggy. I kinda snapped at people for asking if I'd put it up above my head with ice. "I have 15 minutes between getting up and going to work, then I immediately have to leave for rehearsal when I get out of work, then immediately go to bed when I get home, with what time, please?" I tried it last night, anyway, but the longer the week goes, the more stuff I need to do and no time to do it until oh, Monday.
posted by jenfullmoon at 2:41 PM on February 20 [1 favorite]
Wisdom tooth sympathy! Laze as medical necessity, I_F, and I hope there's some soft foods and maybe comfort ice cream in your future to speed healing.
Today I feel like I did a bunch, and yet not much got done? Called mom's assisted living three times asking them to have a nurse check mom (because there'd been no response yesterday to her aid asking), and finally the nurse called back to say her lungs sound clear and mom says she's fine (she's not). But at least the nurse listened when I said mom doesn't sound like herself and said she'd check in again tomorrow, mentioning the possibility of a UTI (very plausible). The fiancee of the aid that hopes to buy mom's house waited for the window replacement quote guy for 4 hours, and after I made 3 calls I finally found out that repair guy couldn't make it, oy. Managing this stuff from a 12 hour drive away gets challenging, but at least we have Amazing friends, neighbors, and helpers.
I did make progress on one medical thing for myself, and do all my PT, strength, and a yoga class. Oh! And we went to a surprise poetry reading tonight, which was good bonus socializing, which I hear is good for us :).
posted by ldthomps at 6:55 PM on February 20 [3 favorites]
Today I feel like I did a bunch, and yet not much got done? Called mom's assisted living three times asking them to have a nurse check mom (because there'd been no response yesterday to her aid asking), and finally the nurse called back to say her lungs sound clear and mom says she's fine (she's not). But at least the nurse listened when I said mom doesn't sound like herself and said she'd check in again tomorrow, mentioning the possibility of a UTI (very plausible). The fiancee of the aid that hopes to buy mom's house waited for the window replacement quote guy for 4 hours, and after I made 3 calls I finally found out that repair guy couldn't make it, oy. Managing this stuff from a 12 hour drive away gets challenging, but at least we have Amazing friends, neighbors, and helpers.
I did make progress on one medical thing for myself, and do all my PT, strength, and a yoga class. Oh! And we went to a surprise poetry reading tonight, which was good bonus socializing, which I hear is good for us :).
posted by ldthomps at 6:55 PM on February 20 [3 favorites]
Bit of a mixed bag this week. Most notable achievement was taking another six bags of my father's books to Oxfam, with the help of my brother-in-law. Got through a meeting about potential work, which I was very stressed about, and some slightly contentious work-planning discussions with my business partner. Still struggling to get any chores done. I have a couple of days out - today a cafe and shopping trip with my sister, tomorrow to see Ballet Shoes at the National - so the only things getting done will be of an entertainment and socialising kind.
posted by paduasoy at 12:01 AM on February 21 [3 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 12:01 AM on February 21 [3 favorites]
Wow, 6 bags of books to Oxfam is an accomplishment enough for the week, paduasoy, go you! And entertainment and socialising also turn out to be essential - I'm still feeling better for our friendly poetry reading.
It's 10:30 and I've called and texted with more than 4 people each, and yet still am not sure if the window replacement guy is coming out to mom's house today. But maybe I can start getting to my To Do list (at least a load of laundry is in).
posted by ldthomps at 7:42 AM on February 21 [2 favorites]
It's 10:30 and I've called and texted with more than 4 people each, and yet still am not sure if the window replacement guy is coming out to mom's house today. But maybe I can start getting to my To Do list (at least a load of laundry is in).
posted by ldthomps at 7:42 AM on February 21 [2 favorites]
I hear socialising is good for us …
posted by kyraU2 at 12:22 PM on February 21 [3 favorites]
posted by kyraU2 at 12:22 PM on February 21 [3 favorites]
Yes, it is. About a half hour ago I remembered I have a luncheon tomorrow. My place is a mess of dust. I have to go because the not-expensive ticket was a gift from the luncheon organizer. I know it’s great to be valued.
Every single thing in the apartment is covered in fine dust. Every single thing will have to be cleaned. Everything. The umbrellas. Every leaf of every plant. Every single thing.
posted by jgirl at 6:12 PM on February 21 [3 favorites]
Every single thing in the apartment is covered in fine dust. Every single thing will have to be cleaned. Everything. The umbrellas. Every leaf of every plant. Every single thing.
posted by jgirl at 6:12 PM on February 21 [3 favorites]
*not-INexpensive
posted by jgirl at 6:36 PM on February 21 [1 favorite]
posted by jgirl at 6:36 PM on February 21 [1 favorite]
Good news is, projector works! Bad news is, the film is broken! We will improvise a cheesy scene if someone running home to convert a file does not work!
posted by jenfullmoon at 6:54 PM on February 21 [2 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 6:54 PM on February 21 [2 favorites]
Ooof, I'm so sorry that your home has been so messed up for so long thanks to your landlord, jgirl! But I also hope that the luncheon is a break from having to clean dust off Everything again. Maybe even a little tasty and fun! And here's hoping film or something fun happened, jenfullmoon!
posted by ldthomps at 7:11 PM on February 21 [3 favorites]
posted by ldthomps at 7:11 PM on February 21 [3 favorites]
We improvised a cheesy bad scene and it was glorious.
Gee, too bad the director couldn't be arsed to get back to anyone in the topic so I had to just guess it wasn't going though. Sheesh, dude.
posted by jenfullmoon at 8:21 PM on February 21 [2 favorites]
Gee, too bad the director couldn't be arsed to get back to anyone in the topic so I had to just guess it wasn't going though. Sheesh, dude.
posted by jenfullmoon at 8:21 PM on February 21 [2 favorites]
I'm not on fire with GSD energy this weekend like I was last weekend. But I just finished installing the new kitchen faucet that I picked up last weekend at Costco, so that's a little something! Cleaned out the cabinet underneath while I was at it. I mean, I had to anyway to get in under there to do the faucet stuff, but it counts!
I also got a set of new tupperware containers in the same Costco trip. Working through the initial washing of all of them. Same kind as I already had. Partly the point of getting more is to require/enforce stacking them in an organized fashion instead of just having a big loose pile, because there isn't room for the pile approach anymore with that many. And also to make sure to always have one of the size that I want when I need it!
posted by notoriety public at 11:52 AM on February 22 [4 favorites]
I also got a set of new tupperware containers in the same Costco trip. Working through the initial washing of all of them. Same kind as I already had. Partly the point of getting more is to require/enforce stacking them in an organized fashion instead of just having a big loose pile, because there isn't room for the pile approach anymore with that many. And also to make sure to always have one of the size that I want when I need it!
posted by notoriety public at 11:52 AM on February 22 [4 favorites]
jgirl, you are having a time of it. I'm sorry.
Socialising and theatre were done. Must try harder to see more theatre. Covid interrupted me and I've never got back to it. In GSD, I actually managed some chores yesterday, which is good. Also did crocheting on train - lengthy and florid compliments from a fellow traveller, which was both embarrassing and pleasing.
posted by paduasoy at 12:14 AM on February 23 [2 favorites]
Socialising and theatre were done. Must try harder to see more theatre. Covid interrupted me and I've never got back to it. In GSD, I actually managed some chores yesterday, which is good. Also did crocheting on train - lengthy and florid compliments from a fellow traveller, which was both embarrassing and pleasing.
posted by paduasoy at 12:14 AM on February 23 [2 favorites]
Glad you had a good day out, paduasoy. Ballet Shoes was/is one of my favo(u)rite books since I found it many years ago as a child. I think I still have my battered copy on the shelf. I see it will run at the National again this fall.
Every bag or box of books out of the house is great!
notoriety public, I hear you on the Tupperware/food containers. It was very satisfying to clean ours out and I hope you figure out a storage and use method that works well for you.
I’m pretty sure we are all fed up with jgirl’s “management,” but not as much as you are, jgirl. Ugh. Should we ask about the luncheon?
How is the wisdom tooth recovery, inexorably _forward?
Jenfullmoon, the silly improvisation sounds fun, but maybe your director not so much? And how is the foot? Please stay away from ironing boards.
I sympathise with caregiving issues, ldthomps. And good for you for taking care of yourself as well as your mom; it’s (expletive deleted) hard. The poetry reading sounds fun.
Yesterday’s GSD was washing laundry (the clean basket of same is in front of me) and also quite a bit of financial/bill type of admin stuff. It’s an ongoing task and of course it generated other things to do, or follow up on, but much progress was made.
I’m not sure what today will bring (besides more laundry), but I’ll let you know!
posted by kyraU2 at 6:45 AM on February 23 [6 favorites]
Every bag or box of books out of the house is great!
notoriety public, I hear you on the Tupperware/food containers. It was very satisfying to clean ours out and I hope you figure out a storage and use method that works well for you.
I’m pretty sure we are all fed up with jgirl’s “management,” but not as much as you are, jgirl. Ugh. Should we ask about the luncheon?
How is the wisdom tooth recovery, inexorably _forward?
Jenfullmoon, the silly improvisation sounds fun, but maybe your director not so much? And how is the foot? Please stay away from ironing boards.
I sympathise with caregiving issues, ldthomps. And good for you for taking care of yourself as well as your mom; it’s (expletive deleted) hard. The poetry reading sounds fun.
Yesterday’s GSD was washing laundry (the clean basket of same is in front of me) and also quite a bit of financial/bill type of admin stuff. It’s an ongoing task and of course it generated other things to do, or follow up on, but much progress was made.
I’m not sure what today will bring (besides more laundry), but I’ll let you know!
posted by kyraU2 at 6:45 AM on February 23 [6 favorites]
Okay, today there was laundry, and sorting through yet another file cabinet drawer, plus one bag, of paperwork. At some point the bags and boxes and piles and drawers of papers will be…less.
All the clean and dry laundry was put away (a few items remain on the drying rack), which is satisfying.
I discovered some clothes to wash and add back in to my closet, and culled a handful of clothing and a small pile of books for donation/rehoming.
I also found homes for four bags’ worth of items we previously cleared out of the basement. Thank goodness for the friends and co-workers taking these off my hands.
I also wrote an admin/appointment email, and rescheduled a different appointment.
I was unsuccessful in fixing something with the Amazon account but will try again.
Tomorrow I will have lunch with my niece, always a pleasure.
And I just remembered I didn’t fill the bird feeder but I’m not getting out of bed! Tomorrow, birds. Tomorrow.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:44 PM on February 23 [4 favorites]
All the clean and dry laundry was put away (a few items remain on the drying rack), which is satisfying.
I discovered some clothes to wash and add back in to my closet, and culled a handful of clothing and a small pile of books for donation/rehoming.
I also found homes for four bags’ worth of items we previously cleared out of the basement. Thank goodness for the friends and co-workers taking these off my hands.
I also wrote an admin/appointment email, and rescheduled a different appointment.
I was unsuccessful in fixing something with the Amazon account but will try again.
Tomorrow I will have lunch with my niece, always a pleasure.
And I just remembered I didn’t fill the bird feeder but I’m not getting out of bed! Tomorrow, birds. Tomorrow.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:44 PM on February 23 [4 favorites]
Wow, that's a lot of GSD, Kyra, go you! And with the milder weather the birds can wait till tomorrow.
I washed my weighted blanket (despite being worried about how the machines would handle it), got chocolates and took them to an octogenarian friend in the hospital with leukemia (so nice to see her seeming pretty well), got to my brother's to retrieve things I'd given him to take to mom but he couldn't go so now I'll get there first (nice to see family). Mom has signed a contract to replace needed windows, solving one of my problems. I did all my PT. Sent a couple of pics mom wanted prints of to be delivered to her.
But husband and I did not get to looking through the family photos and genealogy to see if we could find the thing written by dad about being in love with mom that mom would like to see again (and which I remember thinking I would save), or deciding how to file things I'd like to save. And we're away the next couple of days again, so that leaves only a couple of days before I head out to visit mom again. But I'm telling y'all so hopefully we can get to it in the middle of the week.
posted by ldthomps at 7:16 PM on February 23 [3 favorites]
I washed my weighted blanket (despite being worried about how the machines would handle it), got chocolates and took them to an octogenarian friend in the hospital with leukemia (so nice to see her seeming pretty well), got to my brother's to retrieve things I'd given him to take to mom but he couldn't go so now I'll get there first (nice to see family). Mom has signed a contract to replace needed windows, solving one of my problems. I did all my PT. Sent a couple of pics mom wanted prints of to be delivered to her.
But husband and I did not get to looking through the family photos and genealogy to see if we could find the thing written by dad about being in love with mom that mom would like to see again (and which I remember thinking I would save), or deciding how to file things I'd like to save. And we're away the next couple of days again, so that leaves only a couple of days before I head out to visit mom again. But I'm telling y'all so hopefully we can get to it in the middle of the week.
posted by ldthomps at 7:16 PM on February 23 [3 favorites]
Kyra & everybody, my wisdom tooth recovery is... going ok, I guess? I've never had an extraction before so I don't have first-hand experience with how the various stages feel.
I have a perhaps-overblown fear of getting dry socket, and trying not to do all the things that might contribute to it seems a bit overwhelming; every time I feel any weirdness in my mouth I wonder if I screwed up somehow and now the clot's going to come out and I'll get dry socket, aaaaaugh!
Not much pain though, hooray!
I've temporarily let go of tracking/reporting any GSD stuff in any organised way, but today I made pear chutney (currently in the slow cooker) from the box of pears my neighbour brought me from her tree. It's in the slow cooker overnight and the house smells EXTREMELY DELICIOUS.
It's great to see everybody's continued progress and activity.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:07 AM on February 24 [4 favorites]
I have a perhaps-overblown fear of getting dry socket, and trying not to do all the things that might contribute to it seems a bit overwhelming; every time I feel any weirdness in my mouth I wonder if I screwed up somehow and now the clot's going to come out and I'll get dry socket, aaaaaugh!
Not much pain though, hooray!
I've temporarily let go of tracking/reporting any GSD stuff in any organised way, but today I made pear chutney (currently in the slow cooker) from the box of pears my neighbour brought me from her tree. It's in the slow cooker overnight and the house smells EXTREMELY DELICIOUS.
It's great to see everybody's continued progress and activity.
posted by inexorably_forward at 2:07 AM on February 24 [4 favorites]
Foot is better. Still sticking to comfier shoes and I probably won't take any recreational strolls, but I can at least get around.
posted by jenfullmoon at 7:32 AM on February 24 [2 favorites]
posted by jenfullmoon at 7:32 AM on February 24 [2 favorites]
Once you can get steel-toed boots on, you can give that iron and ironing board a good kicking!
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:29 PM on February 24 [3 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 1:29 PM on February 24 [3 favorites]
The luncheon was very nice, with good food and a great speaker. Swimming means I cannot stay awake for the monthly meetings of the related organization I belong to, so it was great to see people.
I got back home and a raging fever, cough, and congestion took me out. There won't be much GSD this week. The place is still thick with dust. I washed the big window and then slept for a long time. Sorry to be a downer in the group.
I am really impressed with what you all have accomplished, and I am so glad we are together. It means the world!
posted by jgirl at 4:03 PM on February 24 [4 favorites]
I got back home and a raging fever, cough, and congestion took me out. There won't be much GSD this week. The place is still thick with dust. I washed the big window and then slept for a long time. Sorry to be a downer in the group.
I am really impressed with what you all have accomplished, and I am so glad we are together. It means the world!
posted by jgirl at 4:03 PM on February 24 [4 favorites]
Oh jgirl, you’re not a downer. It’s hard sometimes. I hope you’re not seriously ill and am sure the dust isn’t helping.
posted by kyraU2 at 5:08 PM on February 24 [3 favorites]
posted by kyraU2 at 5:08 PM on February 24 [3 favorites]
I didn't clear anything or do my PT today, but I thought I'd report that we did go shellfishing for the first time since November (we get recreational licenses on Cape Cod) and despite it being February and there being a lot more ice on the flats than we expected, we got a full peck of clams. It was a little chilly, but mostly a balmy, sunny 40 degrees today, and we heard red-winged blackbirds, so it just felt like we will emerge into Spring. Which is great for lots of things (if not my tackling piles in the house, so I should recognize that I should buckle down while I can).
posted by ldthomps at 6:21 PM on February 24 [3 favorites]
posted by ldthomps at 6:21 PM on February 24 [3 favorites]
Mmmmmm pear chutney! How did it turn out?
I understand being concerned about developing dry socket. I hope you continue to heal.
Today I went to work unexpectedly to cover for a co-worker, just in the morning. I met my niece for lunch at 12:30 and at 7 we were still talking! It was fun and I’m better for the socialising. There was a lot of paperwork yesterday.
That’s the sum total of my day. I’m happy with it!
posted by kyraU2 at 6:22 PM on February 24 [4 favorites]
I understand being concerned about developing dry socket. I hope you continue to heal.
Today I went to work unexpectedly to cover for a co-worker, just in the morning. I met my niece for lunch at 12:30 and at 7 we were still talking! It was fun and I’m better for the socialising. There was a lot of paperwork yesterday.
That’s the sum total of my day. I’m happy with it!
posted by kyraU2 at 6:22 PM on February 24 [4 favorites]
Also, mmmmmm, clams, ldthomps! I am sure they will turn into something delicious.
I’ll take any sign of spring. Today was a bit better in terms of warmth but generally my corner of the Midwest has been dreary and grey this winter. It feels a bit like day 708 of January but better weather is coming.
I have been forgetting to mention that at least two communities in my area are having special drive in/drop off events the first weekend in April, accepting everything from household hazardous waste, to shredding, e-waste collection, and more. This is helping motivate us to sort items into appropriate piles for proper disposal/recycling. Maybe other areas have similar programs? Just a thought.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:30 PM on February 24 [2 favorites]
I’ll take any sign of spring. Today was a bit better in terms of warmth but generally my corner of the Midwest has been dreary and grey this winter. It feels a bit like day 708 of January but better weather is coming.
I have been forgetting to mention that at least two communities in my area are having special drive in/drop off events the first weekend in April, accepting everything from household hazardous waste, to shredding, e-waste collection, and more. This is helping motivate us to sort items into appropriate piles for proper disposal/recycling. Maybe other areas have similar programs? Just a thought.
posted by kyraU2 at 6:30 PM on February 24 [2 favorites]
The pear chutney is yumtastic!
posted by inexorably_forward at 9:19 PM on February 24 [2 favorites]
posted by inexorably_forward at 9:19 PM on February 24 [2 favorites]
jgirl, I'm sorry you are feeling rotten. You are not a downer.
Just bumping along with routine GSD here. Chores, work. Wrote to niece and sent her chocolate. Saw elderly friend. I had set a goal of finishing a piece of writing each month this year, and here we are in February and I haven't finished anything - did a lot in January, need to get back to it.
Red-winged blackbirds sound good. I've been enjoying the gull resources linked on the FPP, and will feel more informed next time I'm at the shore. Several people I know are using and liking the Merlin app for identifying birdsong.
posted by paduasoy at 11:10 PM on February 24 [4 favorites]
Just bumping along with routine GSD here. Chores, work. Wrote to niece and sent her chocolate. Saw elderly friend. I had set a goal of finishing a piece of writing each month this year, and here we are in February and I haven't finished anything - did a lot in January, need to get back to it.
Red-winged blackbirds sound good. I've been enjoying the gull resources linked on the FPP, and will feel more informed next time I'm at the shore. Several people I know are using and liking the Merlin app for identifying birdsong.
posted by paduasoy at 11:10 PM on February 24 [4 favorites]
Hey, hope everyone's doing better this week.
Yesterday I made a stirfry that actually tastes the way it's supposed to, using the MadeWithLau recipe. I'm left with the dishes, but that will be rectified today.
A bunch of laundry got done yesterday and I actually put some of it away, which is a better than my usual record of leaving it out all the time. Today I'd like to finish getting tax docs scanned, do some more laundry, download my Kindle books, and pay some bills.
posted by toastyk at 12:23 PM on February 25 [4 favorites]
Yesterday I made a stirfry that actually tastes the way it's supposed to, using the MadeWithLau recipe. I'm left with the dishes, but that will be rectified today.
A bunch of laundry got done yesterday and I actually put some of it away, which is a better than my usual record of leaving it out all the time. Today I'd like to finish getting tax docs scanned, do some more laundry, download my Kindle books, and pay some bills.
posted by toastyk at 12:23 PM on February 25 [4 favorites]
I would love to see and hear some red-winged blackbirds again!
I cleaned the area where they did the bust-up as best I could. I rehung items on that wall, and I moved the tree back into place in that corner. That alone is a huge help; the only alternative place for the tree was in front of the coat closet. The small plants are also back in their places along this part of the room.
I am going to take a shower and try to do some more.
posted by jgirl at 12:51 PM on February 25 [4 favorites]
I cleaned the area where they did the bust-up as best I could. I rehung items on that wall, and I moved the tree back into place in that corner. That alone is a huge help; the only alternative place for the tree was in front of the coat closet. The small plants are also back in their places along this part of the room.
I am going to take a shower and try to do some more.
posted by jgirl at 12:51 PM on February 25 [4 favorites]
I am not going to try to do more. For someone who's still sick, I've done enough for today.
posted by jgirl at 3:10 PM on February 25 [2 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 3:10 PM on February 25 [2 favorites]
Well, I did do some more, but now I am really done.
posted by jgirl at 3:55 PM on February 25 [4 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 3:55 PM on February 25 [4 favorites]
Stop, jgirl! You have done enough. Hope you are recovering.
posted by paduasoy at 5:05 PM on February 25 [2 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 5:05 PM on February 25 [2 favorites]
I hope you're feeling better, jgirl - and go you for being motivated to do more. I hope it means your space is getting to feel a little more like yours again!
posted by ldthomps at 6:45 PM on February 25 [2 favorites]
posted by ldthomps at 6:45 PM on February 25 [2 favorites]
Yesterday - with my brother-in-law, took three bags and three boxes of my father's books to charity. Took delivery of repaired laptop. Spent the afternoon reading my father's hospital notes in order to respond to the investigation the hospital has done into his fall in their care. That wasn't easy. Not quite finished. Also, who knew the hospital still do the bulk of their recording on paper? Had intended to go to the WI meeting in the evening - only my second - but couldn't face it. Which I'm ashamed of; trying to be better at people stuff, but I find it hard.
posted by paduasoy at 12:28 AM on February 26 [5 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 12:28 AM on February 26 [5 favorites]
Only sleeping and resting today. Dishes are soaking and will for a long time.
Don't be ashamed, paduasoy! It's hard, no doubt, but it can get easier!
posted by jgirl at 2:03 PM on February 26 [3 favorites]
Don't be ashamed, paduasoy! It's hard, no doubt, but it can get easier!
posted by jgirl at 2:03 PM on February 26 [3 favorites]
Today my GSD was calling a mail order pharmacy about a prescription, after being unable to get their website to work for me.
Next I need to call some other phone number to see if I can get the medication for less money. I’m all about saving money but there’s the cascading task again! It will get sorted, just not today.
Nice to hear from you, toastyk, and I’m going to check out the recipe!
Glad you’re resting, jgirl.
Any leftover chutney, i_f? I provide free taste testing.
More books gone is great, paduasoy. Every box is progress. However, the hospital paperwork about your father sounds exhausting, in several ways.
I can understand you not wanting to be social, especially after that particular task. I am sorry you feel ashamed. It’s okay to be tired and overwhelmed.
posted by kyraU2 at 4:15 PM on February 26 [3 favorites]
Next I need to call some other phone number to see if I can get the medication for less money. I’m all about saving money but there’s the cascading task again! It will get sorted, just not today.
Nice to hear from you, toastyk, and I’m going to check out the recipe!
Glad you’re resting, jgirl.
Any leftover chutney, i_f? I provide free taste testing.
More books gone is great, paduasoy. Every box is progress. However, the hospital paperwork about your father sounds exhausting, in several ways.
I can understand you not wanting to be social, especially after that particular task. I am sorry you feel ashamed. It’s okay to be tired and overwhelmed.
posted by kyraU2 at 4:15 PM on February 26 [3 favorites]
Ok, I made the candied pecans wants, I did my PT, I went to personal training, I ran an errand that involved a half hour friendly chat. So after I rest a few minutes with the internet, husband and I will tackle the family photos, etc with the intent of finding dad's journal article that mom wants to read again and coming up with a plan for organizing the things I want to keep (crosses fingers).
And I'm with the others, paduasoy, I've been so impressed at how much you've gotten done in the last couple of months. I'm impressed by everything Everyone here has managed to get done - such a good team effort! Thanks for making January and February a little less feral, folks!
posted by ldthomps at 1:16 PM on February 27 [4 favorites]
And I'm with the others, paduasoy, I've been so impressed at how much you've gotten done in the last couple of months. I'm impressed by everything Everyone here has managed to get done - such a good team effort! Thanks for making January and February a little less feral, folks!
posted by ldthomps at 1:16 PM on February 27 [4 favorites]
Sorry, that should have been "candied pecans that mom wants". They're cooled and packed for the trip (though, of course, last I saw she had a sizable hoard of them, but what little old ladies say they'll eat, I will provide).
And my husband and I FOUND the journal entry from dad, stuffed between two framed pictures to keep the pages flat. I will photograph the fun pages in case it never comes back and take them back to mom, pleased that I did not, in fact, lose them. Our efforts led to tough discussions about long term storage solutions for the genealogy stuff I want to keep, as well as recycling a bunch of dad's math journals and about a linear foot of cooking magazines, so I count that as GSD. Thanks, all!
posted by ldthomps at 2:41 PM on February 27 [3 favorites]
And my husband and I FOUND the journal entry from dad, stuffed between two framed pictures to keep the pages flat. I will photograph the fun pages in case it never comes back and take them back to mom, pleased that I did not, in fact, lose them. Our efforts led to tough discussions about long term storage solutions for the genealogy stuff I want to keep, as well as recycling a bunch of dad's math journals and about a linear foot of cooking magazines, so I count that as GSD. Thanks, all!
posted by ldthomps at 2:41 PM on February 27 [3 favorites]
That sounds really good, ldthomps. Something important found. Thank you for the kind words, too.
Got some things done today: worked, sat with friend who is having a hard time, cooked haggis ragu - turned out to make a massive vat, should see me through next week - and chores. Nothing exciting, but all makes daily life a bit better.
posted by paduasoy at 3:41 PM on February 27 [2 favorites]
Got some things done today: worked, sat with friend who is having a hard time, cooked haggis ragu - turned out to make a massive vat, should see me through next week - and chores. Nothing exciting, but all makes daily life a bit better.
posted by paduasoy at 3:41 PM on February 27 [2 favorites]
So glad you FOUND the journal entry, ldthomps!
I’d like to know more about haggis ragu-it sounds delicious.
Yesterday my GSD was sitting on the phone far too long with the insurance company’s other company trying to figure out the discount program for one of my medications. Dear reader, I gave up and just paid what I normally do. The other company wanted me to sign my life away and wouldn’t guarantee a discount and it was all too much.
I also ran some errands and had an appointment (not icky). Oh! And took a small pile of books to a new home.
I’ve been putting off another phone call/scheduling appointment task so that is on the list today. But first, work.
posted by kyraU2 at 4:38 AM on February 28 [2 favorites]
I’d like to know more about haggis ragu-it sounds delicious.
Yesterday my GSD was sitting on the phone far too long with the insurance company’s other company trying to figure out the discount program for one of my medications. Dear reader, I gave up and just paid what I normally do. The other company wanted me to sign my life away and wouldn’t guarantee a discount and it was all too much.
I also ran some errands and had an appointment (not icky). Oh! And took a small pile of books to a new home.
I’ve been putting off another phone call/scheduling appointment task so that is on the list today. But first, work.
posted by kyraU2 at 4:38 AM on February 28 [2 favorites]
I did the phone call about the appointment, which I had been procrastinating.
I took one bag of Stuff to the office for a coworker, and also a gift (chocolate!) to another coworker.
That is all to report for today.
How is everyone?
posted by kyraU2 at 3:28 PM on February 28 [2 favorites]
I took one bag of Stuff to the office for a coworker, and also a gift (chocolate!) to another coworker.
That is all to report for today.
How is everyone?
posted by kyraU2 at 3:28 PM on February 28 [2 favorites]
Sounds like you've been finding new homes for several things - particularly chocolate to co-worker! Well done with the telephone calls too. I had a good day with a friend walking at the shore. We saw swans and crows. Came back and watched the pottery (The Great British Throwdown) and ate together. Got some crochet done. Really good to have a relaxed day, and I like the winter sunshine.
The haggis pasta recipe is here, though I slightly messed with it (I had 500g of haggis, not 250g; used carrots and sugar snap peas rather than soffrito; tinned chopped tomatoes rather than passata). Haggis was a year out of date, but I've never known it go off.
posted by paduasoy at 3:41 PM on February 28 [1 favorite]
The haggis pasta recipe is here, though I slightly messed with it (I had 500g of haggis, not 250g; used carrots and sugar snap peas rather than soffrito; tinned chopped tomatoes rather than passata). Haggis was a year out of date, but I've never known it go off.
posted by paduasoy at 3:41 PM on February 28 [1 favorite]
I've always wanted to try haggis. We cannot get it in the U.S.
posted by jgirl at 3:44 PM on February 28 [2 favorites]
posted by jgirl at 3:44 PM on February 28 [2 favorites]
Just a note that I'm still participating, just on vacation. See you all in the March thread!
posted by mmoncur at 5:20 PM on February 28 [2 favorites]
posted by mmoncur at 5:20 PM on February 28 [2 favorites]
I took two bags of donations downtown, sent a couple of emails that I had been procrastinating about, practiced piano for much longer than usual for the day after my lesson, and have just made myself a lovely cup from the mint tea that mochapickle sent with the card from the MeFi holiday exchange!
posted by nuclear bessel at 6:06 PM on February 28 [3 favorites]
posted by nuclear bessel at 6:06 PM on February 28 [3 favorites]
New thread! I'll do a summary of February activity as I did for January, but not for a couple of days.
posted by paduasoy at 12:14 AM on March 1 [2 favorites]
posted by paduasoy at 12:14 AM on March 1 [2 favorites]
Ending February:
Thursday
- Cleaned tall barristers and items on top
- Dusted pictures and corners of walls and ceiling over tall barristers and desk
- Vacuumed
- Tipped over the smaller FFL and vacuumed again. I’m just glad the pot didn’t break
- Dusted desk and shelf unit with drawers that sits on top of desk. Dusted items therein while considering getting rid of the unit because the drawers are not fully enclosed. It's a nice Pottery Barn $150 item I got at the flea market for $15 some years back.
Friday
- Moved couch and cleaned floor
- Moved end table/nightstand to clean under and behind
- Dusted shoe shelf by entry door
- Cleaned inside cord/surge protector box that is behind the end table/nightstand
- Added a 3-plug adaptor to wall outlet and moved charging cord out of cord/surge protector box to this adaptor; hopefully this will fix the intermittent-charge problem
- Vacuumed some more and mopped
It's actually not that easy to deep clean a theoretically 425 square foot apartment because there's not really much of an option to move things out of the way. I'm still beat and coughing, no swimming, but someone's gotta do this stuff, and that someone is me. I rest a lot.
posted by jgirl at 8:07 AM on March 1 [4 favorites]
Thursday
- Cleaned tall barristers and items on top
- Dusted pictures and corners of walls and ceiling over tall barristers and desk
- Vacuumed
- Tipped over the smaller FFL and vacuumed again. I’m just glad the pot didn’t break
- Dusted desk and shelf unit with drawers that sits on top of desk. Dusted items therein while considering getting rid of the unit because the drawers are not fully enclosed. It's a nice Pottery Barn $150 item I got at the flea market for $15 some years back.
Friday
- Moved couch and cleaned floor
- Moved end table/nightstand to clean under and behind
- Dusted shoe shelf by entry door
- Cleaned inside cord/surge protector box that is behind the end table/nightstand
- Added a 3-plug adaptor to wall outlet and moved charging cord out of cord/surge protector box to this adaptor; hopefully this will fix the intermittent-charge problem
- Vacuumed some more and mopped
It's actually not that easy to deep clean a theoretically 425 square foot apartment because there's not really much of an option to move things out of the way. I'm still beat and coughing, no swimming, but someone's gotta do this stuff, and that someone is me. I rest a lot.
posted by jgirl at 8:07 AM on March 1 [4 favorites]
This thread has been archived and is closed to new comments
posted by paduasoy at 11:55 AM on January 31 [5 favorites]