Quicky

I'm tired. And then I remember I'm getting through a cold and hormones are going bonkers. I can feel that I'm trying to get a cycle (probably won't) -- night sweats, morning hot flashes, poor sleep. I was going to drop my car off for service and come home and workout. I think I'm going to take a "rest" day instead. Listen to my body -- even though workouts will be lighter over a long weekend away. 

I'm trying VERY hard to drive VERY little today. I'd like to have a MOSTLY home day working on organizing things and getting ready for the trip. I ran a bunch of errands yesterday to offload today's schedule. Car for service and get gas -- that should be all. I swear I drove 10 times as much daily for months between the wedding, move, and trips.

This might be the shortest post to date. I looked at the time and I need to get my car to the early, early service appointment. Seemed like a good idea when I made the appointment, but now ... hmmm. 

Have a good day. Later gators.

Picture Hanging Begins

I'm feeling okay -- okay enough that I expect the Asheville weekend is a go for me. Phew! When this weekend is finished, I'm slowing down a little. I can't keep this pace. One more big push and then back to routine and quiet time built into my day.

We started hanging pictures yesterday to get them off the floors. A lot are still a question mark, but I knew where we wanted to hang some. Ended up changing this up -- moving some of the picture wall to the other side. Have to use paper first -- worth the time to do the setup. I must have changed this 10 times before we settled on the arrangement. 

There was a big accident on a local road and it knocked out power to the area for a couple of hours. That was a bit of a bummer. Nothing like Spain is going through -- wow, can't believe that situation, but enough to put a wrench in my plans. Also knocked out internet.

Full day today starting with court for the volunteer position and ending with a short club hike. I'll walk to the trailhead and walk home -- so easy. Lots in-between so on that note, I'm going to keep this short today. 

Hope you are having a good week. Later gators.

Mountain Weekend Recap

I'm home from the mountain weekend. It was a mixed bag. Am I glad I went? Probably, but I think going came at an expense. Here's the scoop.

The biggest expense is I'm exhausted. I wondered if I was coming down with something on Thursday but felt good on Friday. Woke up Sunday not feeling well again. The host and one other ladies were sick with colds so not sure where I got mine (before or during), but I had to cancel a club hike and lunch with my aunt today. 

I need to rally or my weekend with family for the baby shower is in jeopardy. I slept in this morning and am laying low today. 

We were up very late and I was up early (couldn't sleep in). Saturday was a mostly bust for me. The town was not what I was expecting. Take all the things I love about Asheville and turn 180. We took a walk around the area, but a trout festival blocked streets so the walk was wonky on country roads with no shoulder. The rest of the ladies arrived in a mini-van so we could all ride together, but the host said she and I would drive instead. 

So I drove ALL day on Saturday. We made 5 different stops -- all different directions, back and forth. No one could understand the reasoning behind the driving and behind two cars. I felt I couldn't say no. We had talked a couple of times that the hardest part of my move was the constant driving loads for weeks with more to go. And she asked me to drive?!?!

Dumb town, boring walk, country winery (wine so bad no one drank it), cider country store, food stops which I couldn't eat. It was beyond awful and I kept having to tell my face to smile so I didn't seem like a total buzz kill.

That said, the women are great. I loved, loved the conversations and the group dynamic. But the host ... eek, she's really a bit nutty and can get nasty with people. I thought it was the alcohol last time, but it's not. 

I enjoyed the time at the house a lot. The meals were good. The weather turned out to be perfect -- no rain. As I said before, the conversations were some of the best I've had in a group -- fun, serious, interesting, laughing, crying. That made the weekend worth it.

If this were an isolated weekend, it would be fine. The "regret" is about taking me away from house settling, getting sick, being worn out. I would have been disappointed with myself if I hadn't gone -- what would I have missed, etc. but I hope the decision to go doesn't ruin this week anymore than canceling today's plans.

I still don't expect to be regular friends with this group. Our social venn diagram overlap is very small. They like bar hoping, walking music festivals in local towns, wineries, and they all have boats. I like those things in small doses and we don't have a boat. They also still work so activities are weekends and evenings. But I hope our paths cross a little more.

That's the recap. I came home early. Worked on the house and crashed on the sofa. I watched "Conclave" -- so good and went to bed early. No pictures because it really was a bunch of nothing on Saturday. 

Working on feeling better and getting organized today. Later gators.

Girls' Weekend Begins

Girls' weekend starts this afternoon. Apparently it's a rainout, but my weather app says occasional storms with sunshine. I had another moment contemplating backing out. These aren't "my" friends. I need sleep. I need rest. We aren't doing what we planned. This isn't nature in the beautiful mountains weekend anymore. What's on the agenda is board games (not my thing), hot tub (totally not my thing), drinking (also not), and "good conversation" (this I like). 

Then I remembered "choose the bigger life." Let's see where this weekend goes. Hubby has been playing pickle ball with the husbands of this group. I liked the women a lot last year. I can find rest this weekend from moving, etc. Sleep -- well, I'm not sleeping here either so what does it really matter. 

So I'm going and planning to stay the 2 nights. I'll leave early in the morning to get back on Sunday. 

I ran my new running route yesterday and I loved it again. I took Duke on the cooldown walk and we explored the town a bit. Saw this little guy standing tall -- survived the mowers and my dog.

Cooking for the trip and this yeti came back in rotation. It was a gift from a friend years ago -- fun what you find when you move stuff. 

00, GF beer staying COLD

I'm hiking the out-my-front-door hike this morning with a friend. Just a quick one. Two hikes on the calendar next week with the club. Won't have time in Asheville next week. Adding where I can. 

Hope you have a good weekend. See you when I get home. Later gators.

Garden 2.0, Phase 1

Phase 1 of Garden 2.0 is underway. These are SO much easier to assemble than the big wood garden -- we'll see how they work out before we go full bore. Issue is dogs because, of course that's the issue. No protection from digging and peeing and trampling. They'll be filled next week (fingers crossed the seedlings can hold on until then). It seems that the yard sprinklers are able to spray the beds too. Not sure if it's enough when plants get bigger and dense, but we have some options to change heads or add irrigation.

Probably 3 or 4 phases of the garden over the next couple of years. I'd love to have a native plant garden, more beds, less grass, pollinator garden, etc. 

Craft room is coming together too. Still more to do, but it feels good now.

View from the door.

View from the desk.

I ordered a couple of runner rugs. This rug was meant for the basement hallway -- I didn't measure. The hallway is long, never thought the rug would be too long, but it works upstairs to dampen the walking sounds. I wouldn't have chosen something so colorful for this area, but it is my year of COLOR and it's kind of fun. 

I'm really pooped, but in a good way. These last steps are fulfilling in a way that the initial move wasn't -- coming together, not pulling apart anymore. That said, I haven't been sleeping well and I'm starting to feel rundown. I actually wonder if I'm starting a cold. 

Prep day for the weekend. Still feeling a little mixed about going, but leaning more toward looking forward to it. The weather looks like a rainout though. Maybe it'll change. I was complaining that we'll probably sit around a lot and that's a waste of my time (when I have a lot to do at home), but maybe it's exactly what I need. Of course, if I'm getting sick, it's a no-go. Even though I'm bringing 3 dishes (and food for me because gluten from the rest of the menu), it's still a weekend that I don't have to plan, execute, etc. That feels nice. I'm hosting the next weekend so being a guest is a treat. 

Have a good day. Later gators.

Settling Continues

I cleaned the old house yesterday -- took most of the day and I'm really glad that's finished. The carpets are getting professionally cleaned this morning and the house is going back on the market tomorrow. Pretty please sell soon.

I treated myself to another chai from the new coffee shop to take on the cleaning day. It was a little too sweet so I'm switching to coffee next time, but I'm inspired to make a home version using unsweetened everything. I'll try it today.

This place is adorable.

Took kids out to celebrate my son's birthday. Still haven't figured out a gift yet -- geez. I'm off my gift game right now. We went local. Youngest picked us up and we walked home. Exactly the lifestyle we want in this town.

Another day of a lot getting finished. Soil was delivered. Landscaper scheduled next week to move it -- too much on our backs and we don't have the tools (wheelbarrow, etc). Bookshelf secret door back on. HVAC is coming next week to add ventilation (he agreed with me once he saw the door). Lots of little things installed by hubby (new house downside -- no towel bars, etc.). 

I ordered temporary shades for my office and am doing pull curtains for the door. It should look nice. I also FINALLY got a furniture arrangement that feels good. Something was off and I couldn't get comfortable in the office. Took many attempts, but it's coming together. 

Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

Privacy? Nope.

I had a good day yesterday. Let me tell you about it.

First up -- the run. I was wrong. The route was great. Out and back, hills, shade, no pedestrian traffic. That won't always be the case, but early runs should be rather quiet. Walk out my front door and go. No waiting on school times, carrying keys, no traffic lights to cross, etc. Only downside I can see is it isn't safe for my dog. The sidewalk is wide, but not wide enough that he couldn't step into traffic with the range of the belly leash. I'll need to find something for him occasionally. 

I did a cool down walk and tried a new coffee shop. It open recently -- about a half mile from my house. It's a mission based program that trains people with disabilities. All the baked goods are made in-house. The person helping me was deaf -- I need to remember some of the sign language I used to know. I got an iced chai because I had my fill of coffee already. Cute indoor and outdoor space. It might become a new favorite.

Okay -- I'm sitting here in my office that isn't what I want yet -- so dark inside and yet a fishbowl, but it's early so it feels private right now. We live on a dead end street. A car came down the road and backed into driveway (maybe night shift). Next a pickup truck came and parked (maybe construction). Then a group of runners came down the street and turned around. IT'S 5 o'clock IN THE MORNING and PITCH DARK. And now another two cars. What is sam hell?!? Doesn't seem like construction -- all men in workout outfits going into a house. That house had all its main floor lights on until the first car went into the driveway, then lights went out -- that's why I thought nightshift. Maybe he's a personal trainer? They gave swim lessons for babies in their backyard pool a couple of weeks ago.

Hold on while I order temporary shades for the office ... never mind, it's too dark with a glare to see the tape measure. Has to wait until it's light outside. 

The office needs work. The glass doors are pretty, but a problem. They're metal with four sections so shear curtains aren't an easy option or maybe not an option at all. As soon as hubby wakes up, he walks by the door a thousand times with dogs, etc. ZERO privacy. Maybe I need to get drapes that pull across the door. Hmmm -- that's an idea. 

I like quiet, contemplative time in the morning. People looky-looing from all sides doesn't work. 

Anyway ... back to my good day yesterday. 

OMG -- more runners. Yep, I need temporary shades. I like the activity around the house, just not in the morning in my office.

I got a lot organized -- needs a bit of tweaking, but it's livable now. The craft room is still unusable though and a mess because we're waiting on the door to be put back. It's huge, heavy and laying on the floor. They ghosted me yesterday. I waited all afternoon and evening. Only one guy who knows how to do it.

I'm feeling like my spaces are the last to settle and that's unsettling. But, the day was excellent yesterday. Living the lifestyle that this move brings and I love it. I just need a little time and patience.

Garden soil is getting delivered today. Another area of unsettle, but I'm pushing it as a priority. We (hubby) need to assemble the beds and I'll text our landscaper to see if he can come over to move the soil since they won't be able to get it close to the beds. I have no idea if I ordered enough -- one Soil3 bag. So much to do and it really bums me out about being away 2 weekends right now. If I had a couple of weeks, the timing would be fine. 

Ugh -- hubby is up. I'm going to call it. Privacy is a lost cause this morning. Later gators.

First Monday

First Monday in the new house. Lots on the agenda this week, but it's starting to wind down on the move logistics and crank up on the "life" fun again. 

I move into a space in layers. I need to work on the closet today -- still in early phase. Lots of boxes and chaos. Pantry is at the next level -- everything moved in, but it needs to be organized. Tackling that today too. 

Basement stairs are getting the runner installed this morning. 

I'm planning to take a first "run" in the area. It'll be some walking too -- my body is tired. I'm looking for a route I like out the front door. That'll make going for a run so much easier. I'm picky on what qualifies as "like" though -- I might need to drive to a park for a route that works well. I don't like a lot of traffic -- pedestrian or cars because I can't relax into the rhythm of the run.

As far as "life" stuff -- building up on that again. This is why we moved. This is what makes me happy. This is the fun stuff. It can get lost in the to-do list of chores.

The biggest thing is holding my commitment to the girls' weekend in the mountains. I'm away the following weekend with family for my niece's baby shower and I'm hosting company too. This weekend with a friend and her friends has changed from nature and hiking, to eating, bars, shopping. Not what I planned, but I had a feeling things would go this way. Given the timing, I thought about backing out.

But ... in the name of "choose the bigger life," I'm going. It checks a lot of FS boxes, specifically gathering with good women. It's a cheap weekend. Bringing some dishes and one lunch out. That's it. Last time was so much $$ between the chimp event tickets and the flop of a home chef night. 

We're gathering for a birthday dinner for my son tomorrow -- 31 years old. Going local and that'll be easy with no driving. Perks of our new town and location.

I'm registering for a big hike next Monday -- jumping back on that wagon. The drive is a lot shorter -- another perk.

Garden arrived. We need to assemble before the soil comes. I forced this because if I didn't, it wouldn't happen this year. This is a small phase of the garden, but still a lot of work to set up. Timing sucks, but I'm making it a priority because I love gardening.

Easter was a lot of fun. The carrot cake was HUGE and delicious. I declined taking some home because I need to get off the sweets train, but man was it good. I had a full slice and some of my son's apple pie.

First workout was great. The room ascetics work well. Question mark on the ventilation once the door gets put back though, but it's going to be a nice space. I like smaller and cozier. 

Meditation view yesterday.
Missing door.

Hope you have a good start to the week. Later gators.

Hello, New House ...

... and hello, new-ish life. 

We moved in uneventfully. Furniture fits pretty well. Some odd things need to update -- a couple of rugs, bedding, lamps. The colors or sizes are don't work well, but it's nothing major.

Heading to the new house.

Drugged and hiding.

We have some settling kinks at night. Our dog is having a hard time not being able to walk the house at night. We don't have options for doors open and he hates it. This is an issue because the stinker is barking at us to open them. Fun times.

We had door chimes (with an unknown security code) going off at night. Fortunately, we hacked that startup code lol. Can you guess? 1234

We have sliding doors in the bathroom that need a stopper because they slide right off and that's a pain going to the bathroom during the night to try and realign them. 

My craft room and workout room are coming along. I'm excited to get using it -- it's light and colorful. We need help getting the secret bookshelf door back on the mechanism and the HVAC guy is coming to assess the ventilation in the workout room.

My office is another story. The dark "color drenching" is creating an issue with glare and dark areas in the morning. It's okay once the sun is up, but I'll use this room primarily in the early morning. The camera lit the room more in these pictures. We might need to have it painted -- I'll give it a go and keep trying lighting options. 

Overhead light is the
worst glare

Moody, but I can't see well.

All these things are moving in issues and we can work them out. It's interesting that we had no issues at our last house. The house fit like a glove -- and no one wants to buy it. Geez.

I moved the last of my plants yesterday. Devil of a time finding spots for them. Hopefully, they'll get enough sun. I also had to modify because of my grandson and his reach. It was watering day too -- that project took most of the afternoon.

Watered the old garden and looks like the broccoli is already bolting. Dang, but it's pretty.

Heading to my DIL's mother's for Easter brunch today. I picked up a GF carrot cake from a restaurant. It was quite a carload -- cake and plants. 

Given the immense amount of stuff still to move, we THINK we'll rent a cargo van and do it in one load. Most of what's left requires both of us to move it. Trying to coordinate all that is too much. And we couldn't ride in the same car -- we need to move the passenger seat up too far to ride in it safely. It would be probably 10+ more car trips. Of course, he says that now ...

That's a quick update. More to come. More pictures to come. Have to get going for an early brunch. First time in the workout room. Later gators.

Lasts

All the lasts ... but STILL more to move ourselves lol. That may never end and that is the LAST I really want lol.

Last office time.

Last workout.

Last sleep.

Bittersweet this morning. 

Movers come in a couple of hours. Next update from the new house. 

5 Moving Boxes

We broke down and bought 5 moving boxes. We ran out of bins and places to put things. I'm filling them this morning and leaving at 6 o'clock for the first drive down. There's a big festival in town today and traffic is going to be awful. Fingers crossed on rush hour traffic for this first trip.

I'll come home, workout, shower, and pack again. It's like a magic house -- never empties. As much as you take away, there's always more. This is the first and last move we are moving the packable stuff ourselves. It's simply too much. It seemed easily doable with plenty of time. Nope and nope.

Here are the dogs shopping for moving boxes.

Time to go since I moved my computer charger already -- geez. Battery is low. Let's see if I can remember to bring it back today.

Later gators.

Happy Tree

This is my last morning from this office -- a few days of sitting at a counter, then the new office debut. The desk I use is leggy and we have concern about it breaking in the move, so we're hauling it in the car this morning. Bittersweet. Hopefully, time will take care of the bitter and it's all sweet in the new digs. 

I had some prickly bits with a friend yesterday and I'm really proud how I didn't waver or acquiesce to her opinion (and what I felt was an unkind reaction). I'm also not up in arms about it, but it's noted. More and more, I'm learning to navigate uncomfortable moments with friends and show up honestly. Like me or don't for who I really am, not who I dilute myself to please.

I hiked yesterday -- probably only hike for a bit. I'm going to try and figure out a few shorter hikes here and there until I can be back to a regular routine. I pass this tree all the time at the hike near my new house and it's adorable. Finally took a picture. Look at the pretty spring green too.

Happy Smile Tree

I finished this book. It was good, but holy moly it got dark. The "fun" turned a hard corner. Clever book though with a very unique story. I appreciated that it didn't wrap in a nice bow or completely explain itself at the end since we only had the narrator's 1st person perspective. 

I have a hair appointment today. Getting some length chopped. It's the longest my hair has ever been because I grew it for the wedding. I'd like to keep it a bit longer than I had it though and that will be tricky because my hair dresser loves to chop while she talks. A little more length helps the back bun shape better.

Other than the hair appointment, it's nothing but packing and transporting these next 2 days. Emptying furniture now and that's the worst because I have no where to put it until the furniture moves. We've made this move without buying any packing boxes or materials, just using bins and boxes we collected, over and over -- that's a win, but it's not convenient. 

Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

More Moving, A Great Book, Short Hello

Good morning. 

The court report is almost finished (about another hour later today). I mostly settled the pantry (good enough for now). Packed the car to the roof for a drop off this morning (hiking group today so only one trip). Phew. Food is made (soup is frozen). Lots and lots finished and so much more to go.

It's it always the case that the first half feels like such great progress and this final bit is never ending. I need to remember that it doesn't all have to be out before the movers come. I have until next Wednesday to get it ready for the market. I'll be here cleaning after the move and can pack my car each time.

I'm reading this book and I absolutely love it. Dark and absurd -- totally hitting the reading spot. I actually stayed up reading and forced myself to put it down. It's short, but slow, careful reading because every sentence counts. Skim a paragraph and you can miss the most shocking confession. I don't like the title or cover though -- it's an odd fit for book (at least so far). Woman in her 80s vs an 8 year old in a game of manipulation and mischief. 

I'm going to keep this short today. I need to be out the door early and time is ticking. Hope your week is going well. Later gators.

"The Gray Is Where The Awesome Is"

I got some things organized at the new house and that feels better. I have a plan for the kitchen, my closet, office, and craft room. I'll tweak it once we're moved in and can really dig into organizing. When my environment is a state of chaos, I feel edgy. It still looks a mess, but it's got some form in my mind now.

Office arranging and making
space for the furniture.
Needed a window seat for Duke.

New desk chair for craft room.
Lots of color and more to come.

Today is the last day of a functional kitchen until we move. I'm doing a big cook up this morning -- tomato soup, proteins, sweet potatoes, prepping veggies, etc. Watered and picked a few things from the mini-spring garden too.

I have to write a court report today -- my least favorite part of the volunteer position. Timing is usually rushed when the reports are due and this time is no exception. Last time was right before the wedding. It seems to hit "right before" something big in my life -- vacation, holiday, wedding, move. It can't be written ahead so I had to block off a big chunk of time today.

Listened to a group coaching call and the coach said her coach told her years ago regarding all-or-nothing ... "oh, but the gray is where the awesome is." Nice reminder. 

Short and sweet this morning. Hope you're set for a good week in the gray. Later gators.

Everything is Figure-Out-Able

Long full day, but everything got finished. We got a few very big things off the "move" list and that feels good. I'm trying to stay in that feeling rather than panicking over how much is left to do.

I decided to set up a mini garden this year. It's important to me and I'm giving it some attention and funding. I ordered 2 small raised beds and Soil3 -- both should come in the next couple of weeks. It's not the full garden set-up -- that needs time, but it should tide me over until the bigger garden can be setup.

The raised container with growing garlic didn't make it on the truck yesterday. I disagree that it couldn't get on, but moving on to the next option. Taking an attitude that everything is figure-out-able (Marie Forleo). Leave it growing here -- who knows, if house doesn't sell, it might not be an issue. If the house sells, I'll wheel it to my neighbors (if she's willing) and let it finish there. Probably ready by June. Then I can empty the container and move it in the car.

I'm slightly considering backing out of the girls' weekend in the mountains because I have a lot on my plate and the timing isn't good. I need to think on this a bit. If I go, something has to bend -- I guess I need to see where and what will be compromised and weigh that into the decision. I'll probably chat more about this as I think through everything. Since we aren't doing anything formal like last year, it might be a bust -- mainly eating and drinking and that's not worth it to me with women I don't know well (and never really will become better friends). Hmmm, lots to think about.

I'll end with this sweet picture of Monti. He stood at the door watching the move. Poetic -- goodbye, house.

Later gators.

Raveling Up Again

Nature came through. I'm not "my best," but the unraveling is more raveled again.

The drive started in heavy fog which lifted (in a spectacular way) just as the mountains came into view. Every one of us commented on the moment you turn toward the mountain. I wish I took a picture. Farm land, animals, lifting clouds, sun pushing the fog, spring green mountain. That view alone was worth the drive.

The hiking conversation was actually nice. I chatted a lot with the hike leader (who I like a lot) and listened to other conversations about travel and hiking.

7 miles, 2300 feet elevation. It was hard and fast. Loved it. We had to bushwhack parts because the 2 mountains don't convey. That was crazy -- steep, up the dense forest, no trail, but I did it. Thorn scratches but hopefully no poison ivy.

We ended up not sitting for lunch because we missed a trail turn and did the hike plan in reverse. I waited to eat until the car instead of standing on a trail and snacking at the second summit. No hiking sammie picture with a view this time, but it was a good car treat on the way home.

Smaller summit

Of course, pictures don't
do it justice.

Headed home to an EMPTY house. Hubby had the dogs with him at the new house. What an incredible afternoon to myself. It was glorious. Finished a book, did a few chores, bed early. Took a complete break from moving duties.

I finished this book. 4.8/5 I really liked it. Held my attention the entire time. It was a chonker and I wondered if there was enough story to make it worth the read. Yep, sad to leave the characters.

Started this and I think it's going to be good.

I'm having an upswing in reading again. I hope it lasts. Also reading a non-fiction from the library -- so good, I ordered a copy to have on my bookshelf. This is the first book I've done that -- library to own. 

It's the selection from the
"Read Banned Books"
bookclub I'm joining.

Rented moving truck today to move bedroom furniture for our youngest and adding some of our stuff on the truck too. Big, long day. We're inside of a week for the move and all things are going now. Just bare bones staying back.

Lots to do this morning ahead of boys coming over including finishing watering my lots and lots and lots of plants. Such a chore, but I love plants. 

Have a good Saturday. Later gators.

Coming Unraveled

Maybe I spoke too soon about anxiety. Although, this is probably overwhelm, not so much anxiety. There's so much to do in the next 3 weeks. I know I need to plan and then stay in the moment and not think so far ahead, but it's an awful lot. Both houses are a disaster now and will stay this way for a couple of weeks -- there's no other way. Visual mess makes me crazy. My cozy places are gone.

Add on volunteer court date (and report), 2 girls' weekends with lots to do for both -- I'm undone. All in this 3 week span.

I'm also completely questioning my sanity to hike today. Somewhere I've never been, no bathrooms, hiking fast and hard -- I'm not sure I can keep up and it stormed heavily last night. The group is all men, except for me and the hike leader which means less interesting conversations (to me). The women who signed up all dropped the hike. Do I really need this RIGHT NOW?!? Past self may have done me dirty.

I'm coming unraveled. 

I hope after the hike I'll settle down. Two summits and a picnic lunch at the top. What's not to love about that -- fingers crossed. The only reason I'm not canceling is I'll be disappointed with myself and I can't add that to my "feelings" right now. It hits differently -- going because I'm excited vs going to avoid feeling bad if I don't.

The funny thing is I had a good day yesterday and then the overwhelm seeped in. I sat here waiting for my friend (took a picture to think about room arranging) and slowly panicked about all there is to do. Why? Thinking about how our furniture might not fit and the rug might be the wrong tone and we can't buy anything because tariffs and I have no bathroom storage and the house is so dirty, and, and, and ... My friend arrived and we walked the house and overwhelm about all there is to do was all I could think about. 

I also got an influx of text messages yesterday with questions. Can you send information on this and that? Have you ever used this? Can you set up that? Can you help me with this? I answered a few, but have to get to the rest today. The questions were mostly dumb handholding, frankly.

Seriously, universe?!? I suppose this is a lesson for me somehow, but I'm not in the mood for a lesson or the headspace to understand a lesson.

The rollercoaster of emotions is here, as I often have, and I'll be back to okay tomorrow, and then not okay the next day, etc.

Sorry for the whiplash of it all. 

Best get going -- it's an early morning to get ready for this hike. I'm counting on nature to set me right today. Later gators.

Quick Hello

Yep, I'm glad I hiked. Beautiful night, fun group, nice conversation. A lot of nights I like to be home and relaxing in pjs, but it's good to get out sometimes. This'll be a regular hike for the season (since it stays lighter later) and I'll put it on rotation. It always grabs a good group of people. She started the season a little shorter and will built on a couple more miles as the weeks go by. One more week and it'll be a 5 minute walk home.

Resting my legs today for the big hike tomorrow. It's a hard one for me. This hike leader goes fast and it's a double summit climb. Oh, and a picnic lunch at the highest summit. I LOVE that -- got my hiking lunch ready. This is something I "saw" in a future self visualization. Hard hike with a group, sitting for lunch at the summit, hiking back. This'll be the 3rd time I've done it and it doesn't get old. It checks so many boxes of feeling good. I hope my legs get enough rest to keep up.

Lunch was nice yesterday too -- surprisingly so. Helped that she complained about the administration that she voted for (yep, he's a turd). 

On the agenda today -- volunteer meeting, errands, moving a car load, and meeting my cancel friend for a late lunch. If we keep up this streak, I'll have to drop the "cancel" descriptor.  I'll be in the town anyway, getting lunch anyway, so it felt okay to make the plans with her. Nothing changes for me if she cancels. 

I'm in a better anxiety place -- I think it was gluten enhanced. I'm still in a sulky mood about ending things. Was yesterday the last run at the park? My last library holds just came in (4 books all at once, of course). Is this it for this library -- I have my new library card and need to place holds here going forward. Lots of "lasts." Of course, I'm still in the area, so I don't HAVE TO end if I don't want to, but pull the bandaid for god's sake (!!) 

Hope you have a happy day. Later gators.

What a Hiking Week

Yesterday was seriously the most amazing hiking weather. Cool breeze, no humidity, low temps, blue skies, tree canopy back for shaded trails, water running mightily. Absolutely lovely. I hiked half myself and half with friends. Lunch was good, conversation fantastic. 

We picked the date to go to the refugee charity for chai making at the prompt of one of the ladies. I submitted the request. 

I was moved off the waitlist for tonight's hike which I'm regretting at this moment but will be happy when I hike -- the drive is what I'm dreading. Back-and-forth trips today. I like the people hiking tonight though and it'll be another beautiful weather moment. We won't have many left before summer humidity and heat come to play. Also, one more week and the 45 minute drive home will be a 5 minute walk instead. 

The casual friend who canceled is back on. I hadn't made other plans, so lunch today is happening. I'll run Duke for a short run (because hike tonight), drop off a car load, lunch, and home for the afternoon. Load the car AGAIN and head down for the evening hike.

It's unusual that a potential cancel day (lunch and waiting to hear about hike) ended up having both a go. Far more common to have both be canceled. Guess I should note when it goes this way. Lord knows I complain when it doesn't. 

So overall, yesterday was a YES day -- things added to the calendar, all that had the makings of not happening. 

Something I'm reminding myself of right now that really helps overwhelm and I forget often -- stay in the moment. I can plan ahead, put it on the calendar, make a list, but then stop thinking about it. I overload TODAY because I'm thinking about the next 5 days of things as I'm moving through this day. No wonder it feels like too much. Had to put this in play today as the days keep filling and I keep panicking. 

Hope you're having a good-as-you-can week during the shit-show right now. Later gators.

Hikes, Books, More Moving

I feel a lot better this morning. Maybe gluten after all. I also took care of myself yesterday -- protected interactions, time for reading, quiet time, ate well, bed early, etc. 

We'll see how today feels. I have the Tuesday friend hike and lunch. I'm trying to get there early enough to add a few miles since they keep the hiking short. It's a push though -- loading car, unloading car, meeting contractors, morning traffic. We'll see. 

I'm on the weight list for an evening hike tomorrow and I have a big hike on Friday. The weather for the rest of the week is glorious and I want I to hike a few times. The weekend is all moving stuff so no "me" stuff. I had a lunch canceled for Wednesday and I'm not upset about it. She's a casual friend and an orange supporter so I have mixed feelings about seeing her these days. Hope to add on a hike instead.

A few library reads to chat about.

I finished this. I enjoyed reading it, but it's a series (as it turned out) and ended unfinished (sort of). I'm not sure I'll go back to read more. 4/5

I listened to "The Tell" on audio -- Oprah's pick. Memoire and I should've seen the focus coming -- repressed sexual abuse. It was well written, well read, but not what I expected. 

Started this one from a couple of recommendations. The pages are super thin so the regular looking book is over 600 pages of small print -- eek, need to keep reading since there's a waitlist and no renewal. Saga of a family of girls. Good so far -- I'm about 100 pages finished.

Watched the season finale of White Lotus. It was disappointing to me at first. I wanted more of a punch for the finale, but as it sat with me, I changed my mind. I guess I expected more carnage given the other two seasons and a number of these story lines wrapped up tidily. Why I was disappointed, I don't know. The season grows on you the more you think about it.

Okay, hubby just woke up and I need to load my car. Hope your week is going well. Later gators.

Gluten, Hopefully

I've been a little loose with gluten this last week -- especially eating out. What's a little bit of breading, or flour just for binding, or a taste of the pizza, or gluten in a 00 beer. It adds up -- or at least I'm hoping that's the case. I have anxiety out the wazoo again. I know the economy is on the verge of collapse, etc and that SHOULD trigger worry, but this feels like more because I'm panicked about EVERYTHING.

Gluten affects my mood a lot. Sad, worry, panic. I'm strictly off gluten now (as in starting this morning lol) and I'll see if it helps. I also found a GF, 00 beer and I'm going to give that a go for home "drinking." My joints feel okay and usually that goes hand-in-hand with a gluten response so maybe this isn't gluten. I'll report back :)

I did solve a problem that had me up in arms -- that dang stained rug from marketplace. It was actually hubby's idea -- turn the rug over. We had it cleaned (it's just stained) and the backside is great. It had a glued label which I removed -- only some glue residue left which you can't really see and it'll be under furniture. Problem solved. Now I'm happy with the rug. Thrifting life is saved and lesson learned. Don't accept things that "just need to be cleaned" and don't send hubby to make the decision.

I wore a new shirt from the bookclub meeting. It was designed by the charity founder. "More than good coffee."

I planned out the week. I need to rally -- life feels way, way too much this morning. I want to cancel everything and hide under my covers. Best thing for me is to do the things I know make me feel better. Nature, eating well, exercise, FS, planning good things, staying in the moment, meditation. All are highest priority this week. 

On that note, I'm going to get moving. I have grooming duties with the dogs this morning and then to the house for a car load drop off AGAIN. It's a continued rainout day which is good for the yellow pollen. 

Have a good day (although it's a rough one with the stock market -- might trigger a circuit breaker today). Ugh. I need to handle what I can control today. I'm saying good-bye because I feel a rant and spiral starting lol. Later gators.

Be a Good Neighbor

The bookclub meeting was a success -- really excellent few hours. I love that this charity and this diverse town are just 30 minutes from my new house. We sat outside in beautiful weather, homemade chai, discussed the book, networked with the charity. Gathered in community. The charity's philosophy starts and ends with the idea of "be a good neighbor." It was a perfect fit with the book "Active Hope."

We also brainstormed how to breathe life into the bookclub and I think we're on to something. I'm happy that I kept at gathering these women. They are smart, well read, well informed -- I'm by far the "dumbest" in the room. I got information on another bookclub sponsored by an Indy bookstore. It's also 30 minutes (another direction) from my new house. I'm away for the upcoming meeting, but I'll read the book and hope to attend in May.

Lunch didn't work out because one restaurant was closed and the others didn't have GF options for one of the women who is strictly GF. We decided to bag lunch because we had stayed so long at the coffee house and the chai was filling (I had 2 -- glad for oat milk). 

The club is going back for an event the charity is holding in May. I'm also going to schedule a private chai making class -- maybe for my birthday. I'll sponsor the class and ask people to celebrate with me. Reverse birthday -- I bring the gifts. 

The garage sale went well. We sold almost everything -- gave some things away too. 

No house showings. 

The urban park "hike" is still on for today, but I'm not going. The weather will turn terrible about halfway during the time and they expect to cut the walk short and hang out for a lunch and drinks. That's not worth my drive and time today. Plus a long Atlanta drive home in storms will jack traffic (last day of spring break) like crazy. I like my decision.

I'll update some book stuff this week (need to take pictures). Reading is slowly coming back. 

Okay, still a full day. Moving stuff, organizing stuff, spending time with the family. 

Later gators.

Bookclub and Garage Sale Day

Interesting weekend ahead -- bookclub event, garage sale, Camino mid-town walk. Of course, more car loads and, hopefully, house showings. Stay tuned.

I had a little bit of overwhelm last night and a little bit of dread about leaving this house. These feelings have been a bay for a bit -- wonder why they came up last night again and are lingering this morning. 

Perhaps it's the "other" stuff happening this week ahead. Once again, all my little facets are active and it seems like a lot to juggle. Just when the week looked like it was leveling out, a number of things added on.

Furniture delivery date changed to next week which means juggling someone at the house to accept the delivery. My volunteer job added a half-day meeting. Dog grooming got moved. We are moving furniture out for my son so renting a truck, moving some in my car, being ready for showings, managing dogs -- it's making for another hectic weekend. We planned to do this in May, but needed to change it up. There went my "calmer" week. 

I'm still insisting and prioritizing some ME stuff too -- lord, it's easy to let this go during a hectic time. Problem is, it's been hectic for months. If I had let go, I would've let go for months. Two hiking days next week, lunch date (tentatively), coffee date (tentatively). 

I had the area rugs cleaned. The one in the craft room is good, the bedroom rug is still a mess. A few very dark stains won't come out (natural fiber holds old stains) and perimeter areas look dirty. I guess it's okay for now and it's as clean as it can be. Hopefully, it'll look better with a bed on it, although the bed will cover the cleanest parts. I won't have to worry about Monti peeing on an old rug -- we'll replace it when he's no longer with us. Sweet old man. 

Not horrible from a distance,
but not good close up.
Swing and a miss on this one.

My hip feels fine today. I'm happy I rested it yesterday. I'm headed to do a quick Peloton ride before setting up for the garage sale and I'll see how it goes. 

Busy morning -- workout, getting house "show" ready, garage sale setup for early birds, dropping a car load to new house, heading into the city for bookclub starting at 11 o'clock. All this and it's still morning. Making an effort requires effort -- seems like this is a daily thing. I can't decide if this feels good or if it feels manic-like. When I sit here now, it seems too much. Tonight, it'll feel like a full life day and I'll be glad I made the effort. 

Okay, can't go down this rabbit hole this morning. Hope you have a good Saturday. Later gators. 

Moving Mixed Bag

Mixed bag yesterday -- started off strong, ended meh. Here's the scoop.

Rode the Peloton, moved a huge carload over to the house and my hip started bothering me. Probably a combination of riding, lifting, stairs. By late afternoon it was problematic. It's very sore this morning so no workout -- keeping walking to a minimum too. I do NOT want a lasting injury. Fingers crossed. BTW, my ankle is fine this morning. Guess the universe didn't want me to run today though.

I found a large rug on marketplace for our bedroom. After lots of poor communication (like typo on their address), hubby picked it up. "It's dirty." I asked if it was awful and he said nope. Spoiler alert -- it is awful. No problem. It's wool and I'll get our carpet cleaners out to clean it. She responded last night -- they don't service our new town. Ugh. New plan, I guess. Either new carpet cleaners or move the rug here to get it cleaned. Still don't know if it's cleanable enough to use. What a waste of time and money.

Driving home and massive construction so rerouted off highway and sat in so much traffic. Tired, hungry, hip pain ... and a text. Showing at 8 o'clock. Very interested. Want this house, etc, etc. Got home, cleaned, prepped. They ended up moving the showing a little earlier, but were in the house for an hour. There was one deal breaker -- no powder room. The main bathroom also services a bedroom. You can easily see that on the pictures, drone video, floor plan. It's a no from them, but everything else was "perfect." Wow. Also no update from the other showing who was suppose to get back to us yesterday after securing financing.

I tried to get carpet treads from amazon for our basement stairs, but the sizing wasn't right. We need something on them for our old dog and young grandson. An option that was close-ish was $650 so I went to the local carpet place and we're all set for a runner install after the movers. It was easy and not much more money. I also found out they bind carpet remnants so we'll do that for the basement setup. Probably should've done it for the other rug too -- dang. 

Picked up my library card too. Beautiful library, very nice librarian, walkable from the house. I'll miss my other library though.

It was a mixed bag yesterday. It's to be expected with so much going on, but bummer. I wish some of the things had worked out better. 

I briefly had the thought to give up, give in, etc. Kind of put my head under the covers and eat candy sort of thought. We waited out the showing at a grocery store parking lot and hubby got snacks -- I was tempted, but remembered what I actually needed was rest and sleep. Went home, got in bed with my book, hot tea, and decided to not think about anything. Solutions will come when I'm rested ... worry comes when I'm tired. I have better outlook and happier energy this morning.

I'm driving one load to the house today and home to get ready for the garage sale tomorrow. We don't have a lot, most of what we have we're donating to a charity in Asheville. These are things they don't take -- outdoor furniture, large decor items, etc. We're pricing to get rid of the stuff -- basically donations from our driveway. Downside is it's all HEAVY and BIG. My poor hip. Upside is weather is going to be problematic Sunday (big storms), but fine on Saturday (almost 90) - phew. The storms on Sunday should break the heat.

Here's good reminder for me. I'm busy looking at what went wrong, but lots of stuff is working out well. Sometimes I need to see and hear differently.

I'll be looking for "the flowers" today. I need a little bit of fun too. Have a happy Friday. Later gators.

More Moving

The little "craft" room is taking shape. We moved an old desk and I think it'll be fine. Also cleaned the carpet -- looks much better. A few stains still, but I'll work on them a bit more. Put the other rug in the closet and it works well enough. My next Marketplace search is for a desk chair. Looking for a swivel, no rollers, cheap. 

I loosely organized a bunch of stuff and put things away in cupboards. I'll do the nitty gritty organization once everything is in the house and we finalize what goes where. No sense in taking a lot of time only to decide to move it all because things don't fit. We've moved so much stuff and we have a lot more to go. It's deceiving -- looks so empty, but, surprise!! there's a more behind that door and that door and that door lol.

Didn't get to the new library to get my library card yet. I'll try again today if the timing works out.

Guess what's on the plan for most of today? Yep, moving more never-ending stuff. Having smaller cars is noticeably less helpful moving a house. 

I had dinner with my cancel friend yesterday. It's a rural restaurant, north of where I live now. Looks like nothing from the outside, but it's really nice inside and very popular. I think it's the only game in town, so to speak. Potions were huge -- taste was just okay, but I had an exceptionally good time. We stayed for 2 1/2 hours and had a great conversation with no interruptions. Felt like my old friend again. 

Ingredients in a bowl.
Chickpeas were the only flavor.
It needed something else.

Tuna had a sweet sauce.
Not my favorite.

Brussel sprouts. Looked
amazing, but not much flavor.
We shared these.

My body recovered from Tuesday. My ankle is still slightly sore, so I'll hold off running until tomorrow, but it'll be fine to ride the Peloton today.

There's a good chance the Camino group hike will get rained out for Sunday. I won't be upset either way. I'm tired and burning the candle at both ends -- and I'm happy to be living life in a fuller way. So whatever happens is a little win. Look at me with such a good attitude hah (because no real downside, but let's pretend it's me evolving).

I can't wait to move and can't wait to get back to different hikes. I'm missing a lot of good, new-to-me hikes this spring. The hike leaders have been venturing out and adding some fun hikes. 

I'm picking a big bowl of greens this morning from the spring garden. Only upside to not selling the house is I have a spring garden. Have a good day. Later gators.