Sleep

I slept through the night -- can't remember last time that happened. I feel asleep and woke (with a crazy full bladder) at 4:45. Not even my bladder could rouse me earlier. 

Dinner was nice. 

The restaurant was good, conversation and company, even better. 

Of course, I walked and that delights me. 

Got recommendations for 2 places I've had my eye on -- now it's a go. I'll try to get to the new coffee shop today, because, of course I will. Oddly, Wednesday is the only day it opens later so it'll need to be in the afternoon (or tomorrow). The other is Indian take-out -- all recipes from the owner's mother. That means it's good. Both are on the north end of town and I only noticed them while stopped at a traffic light. Walkable, but it's further than I usually venture, hence the delay checking them out.

My social card is FULL this week.

First ever playdate with my friend, her 2 year old granddaughter, and my grandson this morning. It'll probably be short and not sure they'll actually play together, but giving it a go. My plan is play for an hour and walk to lunch via the playground. Let's see who's up for that -- I know me and my grandson are in lol.

My son got a job offer yesterday. 

Better than his previous. 

Proud of him. 

Some extra random bits from the day ....

I have a set of flannel pjs that I like, but the top had slits halfway up the sides. I'd move and there was my belly. Took them to the dry cleaner and had the sides stitched up -- $5. Now it's fantastic. I almost tossed the top and kept the bottoms. I also had them stitch up mittens that had ripped -- my favorite mittens. Since I can't sew, it's the next best thing. Picked them up yesterday and it was a double win.

I misplaced my ear bud container while I was using the ear buds. Knew it was in one of three rooms. Had to leave for dinner, so I paused the search. Came home, couldn't find it to save my soul. Trash day, so I said, best look through the kitchen trash before I take it out -- that would be the ONLY way I wouldn't find them hahaha.

Yep, in the trash.

Good lord.

Sleep deprived brain yesterday.

Very lucky.

I'm going to get going. I have some toy prep and play date prep to get ready. He's coming over early so we get some regular playtime before guests. 

The week is improving -- hope yours is a good one too. Later gators. 

Regrouping

Sad day yesterday.

I knew we'd say goodbye this week, but wasn't sure when.

His last night was a rough one and he needed to be at peace.

I called the vet first thing and they took us right away.

I think I'm all cried out now. His passing was peaceful, but it was hard coming home without him. I miss him -- we got almost 6 years, but it felt too short. Doesn't it always?

Okay, moving on or I'll start crying again. 

Last night was our town's city hall meeting with the swearing in of the newly elected -- the campaigns I got involved with. Reception in the rotunda and then the meeting.

Lots of women from our group. I didn't want to miss the night, but I was a long day to get myself out for the evening.

I went with my local friend and we met for dinner first. Husbands were supposed to come, but bagged out. It was good to get out early and stay out so I could stay awake. 

This new Thai-inspired restaurant has the most unusual food -- absolutely delicious. My second time there. I got a couple of starters and blue rice (an edible flower infused, but it tasted like regular rice). It's a block from my house. Only lunch on the weekends, but we can do an early dinner weeknights.

Coconut that tasted like calamari.
Charred cabbage with incredible flavors.
Pretty blue rice, but needed a flavor.
I ordered the rice just to try it.

Regrouping today. 

My other dog isn't tolerating his new food.

Up twice to go out last night. 

Back to the drawing board AND chicken/rice for a few days.

Hoping for a full sleep tonight -- I'm worn out.

Nothing on the calendar today until a dinner tonight for restaurant week (with the ladies from Friday coffee). Taco Tuesday -- during a happy hour (hopefully it's quiet because I'm not into loud, close talking during flu season).

I have a little guilt that it feels immensely easier without Monti. His diseases and doggie dementia had taken over and he was constant work (and always so unsettled -- sweet boy). 

There's a stress that's gone -- stress trying to get him comfortable, stress watching him constantly, stress knowing the ending was near and we'd have to make that decision. 

This is a "big" week for me socially and I'm hoping I don't get sick {*knock wood*} -- sleep's been poor and stress high. Everyone and their mother is sick too and I'm totally out-n-about in the mix of people. Not a good immune combination. 

I'll take a little extra care of myself today. 

Enjoy the seasonal temps (finally!!!!!).

I have some walking errands to do today and you know how much I love walking about the town. 

The cold, crisp weather does a body good.

Last night I needed to wind down before I could go to sleep. Read a bit and then shopped eBay for a purse. Stay tuned -- I got 2. Rather bad habit unlocked -- my son gets most of his clothes from eBay and started me down that rabbit hole. I'm trying not to eat or scroll at night -- so the smart thing is to replace that with a shopping addiction -- hah!!

Hope you (we) have a good day. Later gators.

Godspeed, Sweet Monti

We said goodbye to Monti today.

I knew it was coming.

I'm really sad -- love that little poodle.

Feels like part of our family is missing.

The house is too quiet. 

I'd like to think he was welcomed by all our family dogs who went before him and he's happy and running free. Hugs and kisses, sweetest boy.

I want those baby treats too!

Going for coffee a couple of months ago.

His adoption photos

Just adopted him in 2020

Our last night together.

Regular Programming

Back to regular scheduled programming now that the "lists" posts are finished.

It's interesting to look back at older years too. I have lists back to 2022. Wonder if some year I should do a list of the things I didn't do from all those years -- the ones that still could be possible or still hold an interest? Hmmmm ... maybe.

I went to 2 talks on Saturday with the author of Skylark -- Paula McLain. 

(And, The Paris Wife.)

Bumping this up on my TBR
while my interest is peaked.

Morning writing workshop -- fabulous, even though I'm not a writer or an aspiring writer. 

Loved her talk.

Loved the writing exercises using memory and imagination (great for FS work).

Afternoon was with a friend for the talk about Skylark.

The author was tired and you could tell.

The talk was flat.

Bummer, but the venue is great.

I'm glad I went for the writing workshop too -- best part.

I finished the morning class and the rain had let up so I decided to walk from the Art Center to the new bakery to get sourdough bread for Sunday. Only a half mile to the bakery from where I was parked.

I walk fast.

Halfway there, downpour to end all downpours.

Even my HUGE clear umbrella didn't help.

I was drenched from mid-back to my toes.

No joke, cars driving by splashing a wall of water.

Barely a dry spot on me.

Guess it's not always the best idea to walk.

Had to wash and dry my entire outfit before the afternoon.

Kids over for football yesterday.

Vintage outfit for this week.

Painted another rock for the snake rock.

Maybe looks a little like boobs??

Started this book on recommendation from my bookclub friend I saw on Saturday. She said it's so excellent that she expects it'll be her top book of 2026 -- seriously? already? of course I must read it ASAP. 

See that cute checkered blanket with all the colors behind the book?

Purchased at the bakery on Saturday -- yep, they sell odd mashup of things too.

Walked it in the pouring rain.

Protected the blanket and the bread for dear life, hah. 

Both were safe and sound (and dry).

Couldn't pass up a blanket full of colors. 

The box of matchbox cars came from eBay. 

Took out about ten.

Delighted our grandson.

So much, that there was NO nap!

The racetrack beckoned and the toddler answered. 

I'll fill you in on today, next chat. This was a long one. 

Lots of fun happening this week. And, probably some sad too.

Happy Monday. Later gators.

Drumroll ... 26 for 2026 List

(1)  Art Wall: Almost finished right out of the gate. Filling 5 frames.

(2)  Camino trip BOOKED: 

We're hoping for the fall, but will accept a trip BOOKED for next year too.

Dang, my foot makes me wonder if it's possible. 

(3)  Snake Rock with friends: in the works

(4)  3 Fall 5K races (same ones as last year -- it was a lot of fun)

(5)  (-) 2 minutes off running time for 5K: hardy goal considering I can't even walk now.

(6)  Pride & Prejudice flight: 

3 books.

-Original

-Spanish added (Spanish snuck in a little)

-Modern retelling

(7)  Screen in back porch: also in the works as of yesterday

(8)  Paint LFL: I want to paint a picture on the sides.

(9)  Stain deck in Asheville: we've been putting this off for 2 years

(10)  Ribbon chain: 

Craft project for the year. 

Idea from my bestie. 

I'll use all sorts of ribbon scraps.

For some reason, this delights me.

(11) Grow room: didn't have this last year because of the move

(12)  Paint bench x2

Small bench (stool) in my craft room: (me)

Hallway bench on main floor: (painters)

(13)  Paint a water color to frame on the art wall

(14)  New volunteer assignment: my current one should end by the summer

(15)  Garden give-aways: I love this part of gardening

(16)  Use Pottery Gift Card: in the works

(17)  Go to local movie theater: renovated local historic theater 

(18)  Performing Art Center: went yesterday, more to come

(19)  Host 3 "easy" spontaneous lunches: 

"Hey, making soup, come over for lunch today."

Nothing fancy, nothing themed.

Just cook a meal for friends.

(20)  Wear vintage outfit once a week:

Something in the outfit vintage.

I don't want to dress this way everyday, but it's fun to feel artsy.

(21)  HBD celebration trip with my sister

Our birthdays are a week apart and she lives in Asheville now.

We said we'd start this year, but timing didn't work for her.

(22)  May-Days

We are dedicating the first weekend in May to get our family together.

My sister and her family + me and my family.

Next generation.

Cute name for the weekend :) 

(23)  Kennesaw Double Hike

12.5 miles of HARD hiking

Also, not starting well with a hurt foot and no hiking for a month so far.

(24)  Computer Museum in our town

Something to do with hubby.

Our town is oddly proud of this so I want to say I've seen it.

(25)  Tuesday hiking group to Asheville 

4 of us have connections in Asheville

(26)  Wild Card

Something spontaneous. 

What do you think? 

I like this year. 

I think it could be my most "done" list.

Hardest: Camino

First: Art Wall

Least likely: 2 minutes off run (not sure I can stay injury-free long enough to train faster)

Out of my control: Hiking group to Asheville and HBD trip with my sister

Most looking forward to doing: oddly ... 3 spontaneous lunches (not sure why this is my answer)

Least looking forward to doing: PLANNING the Camino

My color last year was Aqua Blue and this year it's Harvest Gold.

Never planned a color for the year.

Just happened.

Wonder if this will continue??

Word: SPACE

Motto: Back for a 3rd time ... "Choose the bigger life." 

There you have it. 

I hope we all have a good 2026.

I want the list to be about me (and positive), but you know what I really, really want ... yep, be gone orange man. Maybe I call this my prediction for the year and my hope for humanity.

Later gators.

25 for 2025 REVIEW

Okay ... here we go. Let's review the 25 for 2025 list. 

Starting with the ABSOLUTE failure -- all things SPANISH. 

Dang, and double dang.

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT (!!)

Such a complete failure that you won't see one Spanish goal on this year's list.

Letting it go for a minute. 

I'm sure it will hit again, but I need to figure this out differently.

4. Spanish partner

5. Spanish class/group for speaking

6. Carretta for HBD (Spanish speaking)

Other misses ...

7. Garden prep gathering -- missed because of the move

8. Solo days in Europe -- no Europe trip because of a scheduling change

12. Curate in Asheville -- can't seem to get to this restaurant.

Went as far as making a reservation and canceled because I wasn't hungry. 

Some half-done ...

15. Wear "unworn" in closet or donate -- partial success. Did some of both, but there are a few big pieces I haven't worn yet. 

21. Creative:

Rock Painting -- YEP

Embroidery -- NOPE (leaving this behind; not pulling me right now)

Successes ...

1. Garden 2.0

2. Find "dream" house

3. Hike with the Camino group

9. Friends to Ashville

10. Six long 10+ hikes

11. Blast Kennesaw hike time

13. Keep bookclub alive

14. New Birkenstocks

16. Organize decorations

17. More bookshelves

18, Share the garden

19. Embrace COLOR

20. Use camelback

22. Makeup and hair for wedding and cute shoes

23. Christmas lights on front of house

24. Dress with creativity, fun, etc.

25. Do something outside my box. (got involved in local politics)

Best: New house

Easiest: New Birkenstocks

Biggest surprise: Christmas lights (finally!!!)

Hardest: Makeup/hair/shoes for wedding

Most fun: Six long hikes

Overall, not a bad year. 

The Spanish miss gives this year the least success since I've been doing this (2022).

The other full misses are mainly circumstantial and don't bother me at all.

Given the move, wedding, selling old house, etc -- I think this was a year to remember. 

Lots and lots of good.

Growth that was hard. 

Prickly bits that hurt.

Stay tuned for 26 for 2026 ...

Togetherness

I know we're all saying it, but January is nothing but evil from the a-hole running our country. 

Somehow it feels extra evil.

Desperate evil. 

I had coffee with the local women's group. 

Activists.  

Fighters for rights and kindness.

Diversity. 

Standing up and DOING something.

We need this community. I need this community. I don't want to sit around and wring my hands and worry and complain. I'm DOING. I want to be with people who DO. It felt important to be with them yesterday. I'm learning a lot from them, getting inspired to DO in different ways.

And we're adding some fun too. 

Exploring our town.

Going out for Taco Tuesday next week. 

Planning some lunches after coffee. 

I said I wasn't looking to "make friends" as a reason for participating, but I'm finding friendship and community even so -- letting it unfold organically. It might be relationships for a moment, but it's a moment when I need it. 

The conversations are hard, and funny, and interesting, and inspiring, and heartbreaking. 

I like that depth. 

A group that formed from common feelings. 

It's interesting. 

Because that's the connection, the group holds a diversity that I love.

And a bond that holds differently.

I'm grateful for the woman who took the time to say hello at my fence, tell me about the group, and text me an invite while she was finishing her run.

This stormy, heavy rain, warm-as-a-summer-morning day fits my mood.

Sad.

Gloomy.

But serves a purpose. 

A means to an end. 

Metaphor for our society??

Yep.

I'm headed to the Performing Arts Center in my town -- twice. 

This morning is a writers panel.

Nope, not a writer (don't want to be), but endlessly fascinated about the writing process.

Then heading to the book talk this afternoon with a bookclub friend (and a friend from the local group is going too). Good way to spend this day. Stay tuned for the details. 

I read this book yesterday -- it was good. 5/5 good. Liz Moore can weave a story -- holy moly. Even better than God of the Woods. 

I needed to prioritize reading because I have a couple of library books coming up. I'm leaning heavily on good books to get me out of my reading slump. Winners only. Two for two this week. 

The rest of the day is rock painting, prep for tomorrow's game food (although the kids are fighting a cold so might be canceled). 

P.S. Foot is marginally better ... but, as luck would have it, I twinged my back lifting weights yesterday (muscle, not old injury). Couldn't move by the evening. It's improved this morning, but still twinging when I move. No workout until it's completely happy again. Taking ZERO chances. 

Have a good day -- whatever that means for you. Maybe some fun, maybe a good cry, maybe a loud scream. We're together in this awful time and that togetherness is where we start. Later gators.