Norcal Gma 2

If you sense the aroma of fresh blueberry muffins it might be my fault.
Baking for grandkids and neighbors this afternoon.
Summer and her pal took on the arduous task of taste testing. A most important step before the muffins are allowed to leave the premises.
#Baking

When I was growing up here in Humboldt County we only had two kinds of weather. We started and ended our days with fog unless it was raining which might be a daily occurrence for months at a time. Feeling the cool mist of the fog on the beach this morning took me back to my childhood. My family was poor. We didn't have a car, made all of our own clothes and polished our shoes to make them look more presentable. Like other financially challenged folks we were proud. Sometimes on the weekends my dad would borrow the neighbor's car and we would spend two days on the beach. We picked surf fish off the sand, cleaned and cooked them in a cast iron fry pan. We ate them with our fingers. So good. A generation later I did the same with my kids. My vegetarian grandkids weren't interested but loved the beach. This was my mother on the same beach Summer and I walk. A Wailaki woman and a survivor. She taught me what she could.

Summer and I found a new friend while we were moving flower pots.
A California Slender Salamander.
Leaving it be until it can find an alternative hideout.
A good excuse to take another break.

A quick run down the hill for a walk. We left our blue sky sunny hillside and drove right into a wall of white fog.
Hitting the trail was like walking into a cloud.
No scenic photos but I took lots of happy dog scenes.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

I drove down the hill to the Botanical Garden today.
Summer says what about the flowers right under our noses right here on our front acre.
As usual she is right.
Feel good flowers are good medicine.
#BloomScrolling

I am one of those people who manages to seem strong, confident and capable during a crises. Even when I'm scared to death. Now that my husband has turned another corner and is feeling healthier again I'm feeling like I can shed the pretense. I am back to being me.
I realized this morning I might even be a little cranky. Definitely overwhelmed by all of the chores that didn't go away while our focus was diverted.
Time for a reset.
No one wants to be around a cranky grandma.
So I set off to the Humboldt Botanical Garden for some floral therapy.
It worked.
I feel better equipped to be kind to myself because I'm doing the best that I can.
The garden is just starting to feel spring like and my son's memorial dogwood tree is showing buds that promise to bloom a little later.
#BloomScrolling

Middle grandson dropped by to help.
He got a chance to spend time with my husband. I hear that they might have hatched a plan to go on an adventure when the weather warms up.
Summer and I jumped on the opportunity to get her out for a good run on the shore of Humboldt Bay.
While he was here he helped me in the garden and took the food down to fill the free pantry.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Summer has a hard job. She keeps eyes on both of us almost all the time. Today I had to do some mowing in front of our house. My husband went for a walk on the other side of the house. Poor Summer parked herself in the doorway trying to look both ways at once. She says her life would be so much easier if we would cooperate and hang out together all the time. I told her I will think about it. #Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Our tulips and daffodils are subdued this year. The wind knocks them down and beats them up. Very few perfect blossoms. Some years are like that. Summer took me and the grandkids outside to see what we could see. Where the fences block the wind we found a few blossoms to share. #BloomScrolling

Finally finished the peace sign on the back of my denim jacket.
Tomorrow at our family lunch the grandkids are going to draw one or two new designs to embroider.
Time to go back to towels and finish up the last two.

We feel good about our day.
Lots got done.
We are mostly ready for tomorrow's family lunch.
Summer supervised for hours while I baked a chocolate graham cracker pie crust. She kept watching me cook from scratch chocolate pudding to pour in the crust. Even when I stirred and stirred the espresso white chocolate pudding to pour on top of the chocolate pudding in the chocolate graham cracker crust she persevered. Tomorrow morning I will make rich vanilla flavored whipped cream to pile on top.
This hours long exercise is a special dessert for our middle grandson who loves fancy desserts. I planned cheesecake but decided on pie instead.
I will post a photo after he cuts the first piece.
Summer is excited not because she gets dessert, because she won't, but because she feeds on the love that will fill the house.
We are making Shirley Temples too. She won't get one of those either.
Poor Summer.
Tonight's sunset through the trees.

Summer is the only one in the family who looks good even when recycling cardboard.
She reminded me that this one more task needed to happen today.
She never forgets the cardboard.
Her absolutely most favorite job after keeping her pal's feet warm.
She is a big help.
Every box gets into the car.
Mostly flat.
Sometimes in pieces.
Summer is a good dog.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Summer says that love is the answer. She is calling it out to the universe but we aren't sure if everyone is listening.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Summer and I found this shell on our walk today.
It is unusual to find a shell that isn't in pieces in this particular place.
I said what a sign of our good luck.
We debated whether to bring it home but we decided to let it be.
Maybe someone else will see it and benefit from the same good luck we found.
I brought the picture home to share with my husband so he could enjoy the lucky find too.
One more share with our Mastodon friends to spread the possibilities of abundant luck even further.

Summer never seems to mind the cold.
Until today.
We headed outside as soon as we saw a little bit of color on our horizon.
We used our time together to recount all the good things that happened today.
We had an adventure, cleaned floors, moved compost from buckets to a metal garbage can, wrote out political postcards to send to Michigan and spiffed up Summer's pal and changed his dressings.
We shared a encouraging pat on the back to thank each other because we are so good at working together.
Summer decided it was time to get out of the freezing wind to go check on her pal.
It's funny that every time she comes in the house she trots right to his chair to check on his well being. She nudges his hand with her nose.
Summer is in charge of all good things around these parts probably because she makes everything she touches a good thing.

Still working to get our routine back in order.
Going to San Francisco for medical appointments severely depletes my husband's reserves. He comes home emotionally and physically exhausted. He and Summer miss each other dearly.
Last night his distress was still obvious.
Today is a little better.
Summer has been staying close and didn't get out for an adventure yesterday.
This morning we were able to get one of the grandkids to hold down the fort while we dithered about where to go now that our favorite beach trail is off limits.
Summer hopped in the driver's seat while I loaded up our bags of food for the free pantry.
We ended up on the shores of Humboldt Bay.
Summer proceeded to get wet and dirty.
The wind was cold and fierce.
We had fun anyway.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Took a minute away from stitching towels to put a frog on my denim jacket. Much harder on my fingers but worth it.

Because I feel like this Mastodon experiment has been such a positive experience I agreed to participate in a Fediverse live stream. I've never done anything even similar before. New experiences can be scary. I do want to help promote this community which means so much to me though.
The question I've pondered the last couple of days is why I love Mastodon and not other social media.
The answer is you.
I am so happy whenever anyone responds to my toots to say I lifted their spirits.
That's absolutely why I do this.
Why I stitch towels to mail, too
This experience is like having lots of pen pals. I can share all the good stuff that would be lost if I didn't write it down. Photos let me share what my eyes see and words let me share what my heart feels. Summer's joy is undeniable and contagious and begs to be shared.
The fact you care enough to allow me share these things with you means the world.
Thank you.
Today's latest rainbow.

This morning's sky produced one rainbow after another.
They were popping up every direction.
I was getting ready to go to the doctor so I didn't really have time to get more than a sample.
#Rainbow

I thought our grandson might like a fresh apple pie when he brings my husband home from the VA hospital later today.
He had a minor surgery but all went well.
Summer and I got a good laugh when they checked in to say they were starting for home.
They shared this ancidote.
While they were sitting in the waiting room for the last appointment they were shocked.
A steady stream of veterans were coming through the door walking past a photo of the sitting president.
They were amazed to see almost everyone flip off the photo on the way by. Some twice as they were coming and going.
Their observation made my day.
I asked if they participated.
He said no that it was probably a missed opportunity.
He has to go back in a couple of months so he will get another chance.

Summer and I were working at cross purposes this morning.
Since we were on a trail less traveled with poor visibility I was slightly worried about finding the trail back again.
I know Summer will take me to the car if I ask but we were at least three miles from the parking lot and even though she will get me there it isn't always the easy way.
I decided to take off my stocking cap and hang it on a stick to mark the trail.
Summer waited until I was down the beach a ways and she disappeared.
A few minutes later here she came with my hat. She was so proud of herself.
She really is a good girl.
It worked out.
We found our way home in the end.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

I had a spare hour this afternoon so I mowed in front of our house so my husband has short grass to walk on. He can see the contours of our uneven landscape now. This will make him safer.
Of course the mowing project has several stages including picking up behind Summer.
Half of Summer's front acre was cut with the push mower. Now enjoying the new tulips and daffodils are just an easy stroll from the front door.
I found a couple of flowers along the way including some crocus that I was positive were gone.
They surprised me in a good way.
#BloomScrolling

#SilentSunday

I made it to protest.
Sporting a newly drawn sign.
It is my gazillionth variation of signage in recent months.
There were two of us standing against this war.
My sign was copied from someone else's but it seemed appropriate for today so I borrowed the words.
Giving up is not an option.
This flower was blooming nearby.

#SilentSunday

I told Summer that we could go for a walk but would need to hurry along at a pretty good clip because I want to have time to protest early afternoon.
We headed for a spot where we can have beach access by using the trail reserved for horseback riders. It isn't posted for snowy plover nesting so she can frolic off leash. It is a longer hike but we are motivated. There were no horseback riders or I would have leashed her.
Summer laughed at me when I had to get up some steam to make a run to crest a steep incline. I made it, barely.
We had fun. She is definitely feeling healthy again.
Thank goodness.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Yesterday was tiring on so many levels.
Once I was sure Summer was feeling herself again I went to bed. I can't believe I left my husband's going to bed prep chores undone.
I might get fired.
Somehow he and Summer managed without me and allowed me sleep through for ten hours.
Everyone is well rested and feeling better this morning.
Summer says I shouldn't worry because she covered for me last night.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Sunset was intense. Like everything else today.
At least Summer was feeling better.

My daughter and I have been texting photos to each other all day. She is at the beach and therefore has an edge on the competition. These were next to the last photos at the end of the afternoon.

As a first time dog mom I'm never sure when to worry about Summer.
She wasn't feeling well for most of the day but is almost her old self now.
I so appreciate all of the advice from experienced dog owning folks. It does help.
I'm pretty sure she ate something disagreeable.
She is wanting to cuddle again and I am thankful.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Our day started out like everyone's I expect.
Not the best. I don't like the feeling of being powerless and governed by this government.
Summer started barking at the window to show me the rainbow.
Ah.
A distraction.
It looks like a stormy Saturday.
A good day to get some housework done.
Summer seems a bit off her game.
I will get her outside for an easy walk and we will see what happens.
#Rainbow

One more towel is stitched.
This is a new towel I just unpacked and washed.
The fabric is thicker and more tightly woven than the previous towels.
I am building up the strongest fingers ever with this exercise. I will have to see who is next on the list and if this towel is acceptable.
Three more to go.

The grandkids showed up today. After sandwiches and bowls of fruit for lunch they dived into helping.
Over the years the oldest has been my garden apprentice. He is so good at pruning and cleaning up all things that need pruning.
We made tons of progress on the raspberry patch. He will be back on Tuesday to help me finish up and to cut back the grass.
The inside grandkids vacuumed and cleaned floors as well as the bathrooms.
We are so lucky.
Today they looked at some of my Mastodon toots and photos. None of us follow each others social media.
The oldest said that he thinks real life posts are the best posts and that I should keep being me. I told him that I don't know how to be anything else.
A lovely Friday.

One last Summer beach photo. She loves seeing her name in the sand. I'm not sure how she could be any happier. #Summer #DogsOfMastodon

When the government cut off benefits to food insecure people I practically had to wait in line to fill the shelves of our population 750 town's little free pantry. It felt like we all understood the assignment and it warmed my heart.
I realize that our pocketbooks are all impacted by higher prices and that we can only do what we can do.
Fortunately for us we are old and don't eat much. It isn't too hard to chuck extra stuff in our shopping cart.
Today Summer and I filled the shelves.
It is a good feeling to share.
Because it's the end of the month we also look at our budget to see what might be left for charity. Summer has been advocating for animal supporting organizations the past couple of months but we all decided to donate to the Humboldt Breast Health Project this month. It will be her turn to pick again next month.
A little help for our friends.

Uh oh.
I'm in the dog house with Summer.
She likes routine and consistency.
This morning I ran right downstairs without going back to cuddle her on the bed.
What we have done every morning until today.
There she was still upstairs.
The guilt is real.
I will try to make it up to her.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

The rain on the beach washed the crusty sand off of the driftwood. The variety of colors and textures were really beautiful. Summer says that she prefers the smaller sticks. I took some photos to show my husband.

A long time ago I was young. There were fewer distractions. The phone was stuck to the wall and there were rules about monopolizing because an important call might be missed. Personal information was shared by busybodies and gossip was currency. Most of us were boring. My embroidery skills did get attention though and my mother would use my finished pieces to bolster her position in her sewing circle as she offered them for sale. The money was to go to missions. Now I'm old and I stitch because it is a pleasant distraction. I so enjoy the positive feedback that comes from this Mastodon community. When you appreciate a craft toot or even note the effort it will make someones day. So thank you for tooting your love for handmade crafts and a special thank you to the folks who went out on a limb to let me mail them a towel. Sharing requires a recipient. The latest to go in the mail on Monday.

Poor Summer is keeping her pal's feet warm. She is a faithful foot warmer.
This job is complicated by her lack of control over what is playing on the television. I think she is really tired of classic westerns. As am I.
She registers her opinion.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

We saw a sight this morning.
It looked like the sky was raining a rainbow over the ocean.
Summer was as excited as her pal.
There is a nip in the air but dry. We didn't stay out too long.
I am relieved because I finished the last of the 350 postcards I wrote to Michigan voters last night.
Today is Summer's spa day and I will file our tax returns. If time permits cinnamon chip scones will happen. All good things.
I ordered 200 more get out the vote postcards to mail to voters in other states because I need to feel like I am doing something to help get us out of this mess.
Summer's good energy is contagious. Today is looking to be a great day.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Rainbow

Because I took leftovers out of the freezer for dinner Summer and I have time to get really cold standing outside to watch the sunset.
Cooking will be quick and easy.
Too tired to talk.
We watched the crab boats bob on the ocean. Listened to the quail passing through to where they will roost for the night.
This evening ritual never fails us.
We find the calm that eludes us through the busy day right here in this space together.
Nothing like a deep sigh and a hug between a grandma and a sweet dog.
Time to start dinner.

Summer talked me into going out in the freezing cold because she thought she heard something outside. Most likely she heard one of her sticks calling her.
I did take a moment to check on the garden since I was bundled up for the cold already. I figured that the recent hail storms had probably wiped out our daffodils and tulips.
I was wrong.
This daffodil blossom is new to us this year and it looked perfect.
I was also happy to see that the avocado we started from a seed a couple of years ago is surviving the winter. My husband has bonded with this plant and cheers it on. Guacamole is far in the future but we are enjoying the journey.
#Summer #BloomScrolling

Busy, busy, busy today.
Summer's pal needed a dental procedure so we spent the morning getting him fixed up. Our dental team is so kind and helpful.
Rushed home to cook up a special meal to drive back to town for a family celebration.
A stop at the post office to mail post cards and a towel.
So I guess that means we are taking a day off from Mastodon even though we love seeing what our friends are up to.
There is always tomorrow.
Lots of love from Grandma, Summer and her pal.

I sat down to take care of a dreaded annual chore.
Time to get ready to file our tax return.
Thank goodness I found every document I need.
Less paper than years past but still a box full.
Summer wasn't interested in helping but she did keep me warm. She is a most efficient heat source.
We lead simple lives on paper.
#Summer

A couple of no Summer photos from our walk. We managed to dodge the rain.
#Humboldt

One more dish towel is embroidered for a Mastodon friend.
Six to go.
I need to spend some time encouraging voters in Michigan by addressing personalized post cards to them. I will trade off between towels and cards in my spare time.
Two projects to work on while it is raining for the next few days.
I've gotten so much enjoyment stitching these towels and knowing that people are happy to receive them.

Time to start writing on post cards to mail to Michigan. It always looks daunting at the beginning.
Summer says she has faith in me.
I can finish this by the deadline.
Of course I can.
Yikes.

Byron came outside to greet me while I unloaded our compost into the bin. He doesn't want me to touch him but he watches my actions closely.
I'm sure I smell like Summer.
#Caturday

Laundry is the never ending chore at our house.
Today I stripped the beds and threw open the windows. Fresh air is healthy even on a cold winter day.
I got to the laundry room and realized I was short a pillowcase.
Summer is very smart but I wondered if I asked her to go get the pillowcase what might happen? Would she understand?
She knew exactly what I wanted. Most likely she understands that it didn't belong on the floor but regardless I was impressed and she got a treat.
We are rocking and rolling through our chores on this Saturday.
Summer said why don't we have the day off for the holiday? I told her that Valentine's Day isn't that kind of holiday.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon

Summer wanted to know what this whole Valentine thing is all about. I tried to explain but she said that it sounds a little sketchy to her. She loves her pal with her whole heart every day and doesn't think that giving him flowers or candy would show that more than a good cuddle.
I agree sort of but don't like to pass up an opportunity to declare my love again just in case he wonders if I'm still all in after so many years.
I think I am as clear eyed as ever about what it really means to keep love alive through the highs and lows of a lifetime together. We have enjoyed more highs than lows by far and we aren't done yet.
Summer wonders if her pal can be her Valentine and mine too. I said that there is enough love at our house for all of us.
Good morning, Mastodon and Happy Valentine's Day.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon