Very dark and rainy and cold yesterday and raining again this morning. We have the heat on and a fire in the stove, so were not uncomfortable. The chickens are huddling together.

Work was not really good or bad. I was a little shocked to see a Christmas tree when I walked in yesterday morning (artificial). One of the Moms complained to me later in the day that we need a fence around it to keep her 2-year-old away from it. Hmm. Maybe it would have been better to wait a little...she was also sitting at my computer when I came back from lunch...good thing I "locked" it.

J. came to volunteer when I was acting director and applied for and got a position as Americorps participant. His term ended on November 20. We had requested a 2-month extension and turned in all the paperwork. He finally heard, in an email, "Congratulations on completing your service." We had assumed he would be approved and he is pretty upset about it. Not that he made a lot of money, but he had not been looking for another job, or finalizing his work.

We got a couple more $1000 sponsor checks and a $1000 bill for catering. I started working on the November reimbursements. Went home for lunch, because Ray didn't come in.

The oven repair man came and left before I got home. He told Ray that parts for Thermadors older than 5 years are hard to get. Ours is 7. We shall see. On these cold dark days, we would like to bake cookies, for instance.

Captain cut up and cooked the turkey carcass and added carrots and other veggies to make a big pot of stock. Today they will strain it and put it in the freezer, unless they use some to make soup.

Runoff election today for mayor and two judges. There are women candidates in both elections, but my lawyer friend Kent says to vote for the man. I guess I will believe him, rather than blindly voting for the woman.

We were all quite grumpy, mostly because of the weather and the fact that our holiday was over and our relatives were gone. So we had a drink and snack and played cards. Captain proposed a toast to people who are nice to you when you're grumpy. I found a recipe that used up our leftover pork and the chorizo, as well as some peppers and tomatoes. Then, Ray cut up some of the pineapple and I sauteed it to make dessert. It was yummy.

Watched a little TV and went to bed before 10. But I read a lot of the Help, an exciting book about the civil rights movement, as well as family and romance. It was midnight before I put it down...and then I woke up at 5. Darn!

We had another amazing meal at Bistro Niko yesterday--one of the 100 best new restaurants in the country (according to Esquire magazine). I am always thinking, "It can't be as good as it was last time," but it is. One thing is the service. I have started to feel like it is my private restaurant. We had the same server this time and I told him early on that we wanted gougeres. They usually say the same thing: "they aren't on the menu, but I'll put in the order--it will take about 10 minutes." So, right off, I know something others don't. This was Sunday, so they were offering brunch: 11-5. It was a different menu (no shrimp), but there are always loads of things I want to eat, almost everything. They had a great squash soup, which Bonney and the Captain had, and a real French onion soup that my Mom got--large servings in tureen/crocks. Nicky ordered one of the French pizzas for his appetizer. They are on a very thin, almost cracker-like crust. This one was supposed to be flambee, but they must have done it in the kitchen or something. That was probably the only disappointment. It has some smoky lardons on it and was tasty, but just okay. Meanwhile, the bread is of course to die for, chewy on the outside, soft in the middle. And we had a great beaujolais. Several times, I just closed my eyes for a minute to savor a bite of something and make time stop. Ray had a salad. I am always amazed at how a salad can be exquisitely delicious. Perfect dressing, perfect ingredients. No asking you what dressing you want on your salad--they know what is right. Hank had salad nicoise, Ray and Vanessa had chicken paillard--flattened and sauteed, with asparagus and a bit of salad and grape tomatoes. I had hanger steak and frites. OK, the French fries were very good, but maybe not the best I ever had. I ordered the steak medium, because I knew it would be very rare. It was delicious, tender and tasty. Captain and Bonney had the duck--they raved about it. Nicky had a lamb sandwich and I can't remember what Chris had. All pretty much cleaned their plates, except Vanessa. Shee couldn't bring herself to ask for a box, although Ray would have. A second bottle of wine...The service is so awesome. The minute you finish the bread, a new basket appears. Your wine and water are constantly refilled before you need it. But no chatter of course. He seemed to genuinely enjoy waiting on us (who wouldn't? we were clearly having the time of our lives). Ah, dessert. Two baba au rhums (not quite rummy enough according to our tasters), a tarte moelleux au chocolat (a molten chocolate cake (exquisite), a creme brulee, and I had a lemon mousse with blueberries and a sort of meringue with the burned sugar top they put on creme brulee. Sigh. Wonderful. We had plenty of time and admired the kitchen, which is glassed-in for our pleasure. One guy was mincing chives all the time I watched, another parsley. There was a man removing poached eggs from a big bath. Even the bathrooms are pretty nice, and the background music, jazzy but not too loud. Ah...until the next time, Bistro Niko!

In the morning, we all went to the Fellowship, where we announced that Adrian is coming! It was an audience-participation service about things that make you mad. The Captain got up and yelled into the mike about not being timid. Don't worry so much about being polite, but tell them it's not okay when they park in the handicapped spots or litter. The choir sang a song written by Amber, composed of complaints. "Litterers, no-turn-signallers..." pretty fun. Then we headed to Atlanta in our two cars. After lunch, Bonney & Hank's car headed to the airport. As far as I know, they got on their two planes and all went well. We drove back to Athens--and by we, I mean Ray, who limited his consumption of wine. Captain and Vanessa dozed in the back, and I  may have slipped off for a moment myself. As we came into the house (6:30), the Captain said goodnight. I put on my pajamas and watched a little TV, but I think I went to bed before 8. Vanessa and Ray stayed up a little longer, although she was sleeping sitting up when I saw her last.

Sorry, the pictures didn't come across yet. There might be some on Facebook.

Gabriella and Emily from Charleston

Here are some pictures from last weekend at the Mountain. It is a beautiful and spiritual place; it makes me cry just to look at them. They are especially for Molli, who loves it there too. My iPhoto is still crashing when I try to transfer pictures from my iPhone, which is very frustrating.

Yesterday morning, I headed to the farmers market with Bonney and the Captain. We stopped first at Janna's to say hi to Mark and Francesca, who were leaving after their Thanksgiving visit. Ana was there and we met Cameron, although he didn't have a chance to say much. He seemed very nice. When we got to the farmers market, there was nothing there. Apparently, they were closed for Thanksgiving. boo-hoo.

Bonney and her family took an outing to play Frisbee golf, which I would have enjoyed. But I needed lunch and a little quiet time, so I didn't go. I took Vanessa to the drug store, because she had to get her prescriptions refilled before they closed at 1. We picked up a few groceries at Bells' rather than brave the possible game day traffic and go to Kroger. We stopped at Nancy's on the way home to return a few things we had borrowed, like a hot mat, pick up some things they had left (beer), and make sure all was tidy. Then home for lunch (still lots of leftovers and turkey). My Dad took the turkey apart and froze the bones and the last of the meat for future soup-making.

Meditation Rock

Ray enjoying the day

sunset

Ray giving a geography lesson

Ray telling jokes at Coffeeho

The boys helped me start supper, chopping onions, pepper, garlic and sauteing in olive oil. Then some of us got a Risk game going, while Bonney and Vanessa peeled shrimp and the Captain peeled tomatoes. We started on drink and snack and declared Nicky the winner of Risk. I was trying to defend Europe, which is not always the easiest option.

After supper, a long game of Dictionary, one of our favorites, and chats with Amelia and Molli for everyone.

worship service (where i announced in Joys & Concerns that Adrian got his visa)

ancient trees

from the tower

It's a bit cold in here this morning. I even turned up the heat to 68 and it's helping some. Too bad I didn't lay a fire yesterday.

We had pancakes yesterday morning and managed to hang around doing nothing. Hank, Chris and Nick went to Sandy Creek for a walk, even though it had rained and was a little damp out. They had a nice time and stopped for lunch on the way home.

Meanwhile, the 5 of us went to Lanier Gardens, where we had lunch and it was pretty good. Then we had a tour of the facility and it was quite nice. If it weren't for all the old people... The rooms were pleasant, if small. The subsidized rooms are not as nice as the full price ones, naturally, but the dining hall land most of the amenities are shared. They even said my Dad could have a garden plot. He said it was not as bad as he had feared and we had to agree. Bonney and I are looking forward to when we can move in! It is a large place, with lots of long corridors and little rooms and alcoves for sitting and reading or playing games.

We came home again (after stopping to get some stamps) and rested up a bit before playing Monopoly and drinking Scarlett O'Haras. I won! It was a very unusual game, because I got a lot of property up front, partly because I rolled doubles twice. The most important bit of luck is that I landed on all three properties of the light orange group: St. James, Tennessee, and New York. So I was able to buy a monopoly without any dickering and build on it early in the game. I never had any trouble buying houses and hotels and dominated from the beginning. I have to admit it was kind of fun. We ate leftovers as we could. And then spent some time looking at old pictures. Eventually, the Captain and Vanessa went to Nancy's and we watched a bit of TV--the Wizard of Oz was on, for one thing, and we enjoyed some Eddie Izzard too.

I love watching the day break. We had a heavy shower just as I got up and it's still very overcast, so darker than usual at this hour. I have a house full of sleepers, which is another thing I like. At this time of day, the day has potential.

Yesterday went well. The food was excellent. It's always good, but for some reason this year, it was just outstandingly delicious. Fairly ordinary things, well prepared. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, squash, sweet potatoes, creamed onions. Hank made a salad, but I didn't have room on my plate and then I was too full. Three kinds of pie with whipped cream. I only had room for one piece, but hopefully there will be some left for today. My father will want it for breakfast, and I might, except I am planning to make pancakes, mainly for the boys.

Watched a couple hours of the parade, but lost interest after that. Most of the Broadway stuff was at the beginning--that's what I love. The dancing from Memphis! And a show featuring Green Day's music.

Started out with cooking the onions, then the sweet potatoes. Peeling them and slicing in a dish with salt, sugar, and butter. Saved one for Hank, who has his with olive oil. Chris made the cream sauce for the onions. Vanessa added the crumbs later. Nicky peeled the white potatoes.

My mother stuffed the turkey after breakfast and then she and my dad took it over to Nancy's to cook. Some people again took long walks. They came back for lunch and we started a Cancellation Hearts game. Sent Chris over to check and baste the turkey between hands. Later, we decided to move the card game over to Nancy's, so we could keep checking the turkey and bake the sweet potatoes and onions. Ray did a third load of dishes and I took a quick bath. By the time we got there, the turkey was done. So we brought him home and left a few people there to bring the casseroles when they were ready.

Turned on the potatoes, set the table, Vanessa made the gravy, I heated the squash in the microwave. Casseroles arrived, Captain opened the wine. Meanwhile, of course, football on the tv whenever no card playing. We even paused it sometimes.

Sat down before 4 with lots of good food. Wish I could tell you the Captain's prayer: "Dear God, if you exist, we know you will forgive those of us who don't believe in you...thank you for this food and this family..." Drank the last bottle of Chateau Ventenac and it was still great. One thing I am thankful for...that trip to France...also my trip to Spain with Amelia a year ago...really great. Time to think about my next one.

After supper, finished the card game. Hank won, with 2 points. My husband led the queen of spades, my mother played the second queen, and I was forced to take it with the king, my only spade, making my score pretty high. But Chris had three really bad hands, after a good start, and went out first.

Then, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy and two episodes of Big Bang Theory, when I began falling asleep and went to bed. Captain and Vanessa headed to Nancy's a little before me, about 9:30. Then I woke up before 5 again. Gotta get straight.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Unfortunately, the relaxing and sitting around portion of my holiday is yet to come.

Bonney and her family arrived about 10 Tuesday night. Their flights were fine, no invasive searches. In fact, the X-ray machine was down in Albuquerque, so they walked right on. No problems getting their rental car or following Ray's directions here. We sat up talking a little, but I went to bed about 11. I dozed until Ray came to bed.

I woke up yesterday a little after 4 and lay awake, excited and anxious to get busy, until almost 5:30, when I would have gotten up. but then I fell back into a light sleep until after 7, so that was good. Nicky was sleeping on the fold-out love seat in the loft, so I took my computer downstairs. Before too long, my Mom got up and started making lots of bacon and eggs. We had picked up a few bagels at Publix, so I toasted some of those and poured juice, while gathering recipes for pies.

I threw on some clothes and walked the dogs, then came back and ate breakfast. It was a pleasant temperature out; it had rained some the day before.

Bonney and I took my Mom to the YMCA and went to buy some more groceries. When we got home, Ray took the Hugheses on a long walk around Kenney Ridge with the dogs. He had to come back partway because Zoe couldn't keep up. Cameron did great though. Mom and Dad and I had some lunch. I rested on the couch and looked at cookbooks. I was sleepy. Mom and Dad finally headed to Nancy's, Bonney and the boys went too.

They had hoped for some eggs, but there were none. So we had to head out to the store again before we could finish the pies. I took Hank and Chris and Nick to Watkinsville to the peach stand (which had apples from North Georgia), but it was closed! Long way to drive for nothing. The sign said Reopen Saturday. I was bummed. Then we went to EarthFare and bought eggs and a few other things. And next door to the liquor store to buy Southern Comfort for Scarlett O'Haras and beer.

We got home with our eggs and the squash was all peeled and cut up, the crust was ready. Mom made the pumpkin pie filling (the recipe I picked turned out to be pretty complicated, requiring beating the egg whites separately). The oven was preheating and we were just about to put it in, when, "pop, fizz." and bright sparks in the oven, then darkness. Ray checked the circuit breaker, but nothing. I made a couple calls, but Mr. Appliance did not answer or call back. Sigh. It's like a movie--your oven dies at 4:58 the day before Thanksgiving!

The good news is that Mom and Dad are staying at Nancy's. Nancy has an oven. Mom finished up the apple pie as well and took both over to her house, with the Captain and some whiskey and snack items. Hank and the boys followed soon after. Bonney was finishing up a second pumpkin pie (on a wheat-free crust) and Ray was cracking pecans. We also were making supper. I had made the rub for the pork--garlic, fennel, salt, and pepper. Ray cooked it on the grill (that was the plan even before the oven died). Bonney made polenta--mmm, good. In fact, she was making it when I left for the other house with the second pumpkin pie. The first two pies were in the oven, so I left it on the counter and went to sit down with the crew. They were watching, How I Met your Mother; not my favorite. And I had neglected to bring anything to drink. So, after about 1/2 an hour of stuffing my face with potato chips, crackers, and cheese, and stealing an occasional sip of my mother's drink (straight whiskey), I drove back to the house to see how it was going. On the way, I passed Bonney. Ray was still cracking nuts. I got some green beans out of the freezer and put them on to cook. (the burners still work), got out plates and silverware, and sat down with the stuffing bread to watch a little TV. Ray took a break from the nuts and brought in the meat. By the time I was done with the bread, people had started arriving back at the house.

Dinner was fine, but it was near 8 o'clock and I was beginning to feel exhausted and overwhelmed. My mom did the onions and herbs and butter for the stuffing. I took a turn with the nutcracker and sent my parents back to Nancy's to cook the second pumpkin pie and chill out. Bonney was working on the pecan pie, but we still needed a few more nuts. I was pretty useless at that point. We finished off the apple crisp with ice cream...and I headed to bed about 10 or so. Nicky moved down to my parents' bed. Slept pretty well, but got up too early.

I just remembered I promised my Mom Bonney and I would put the turkey back in the fridge. She will probably be here before anyone else is up--not sure if I can do it myself. Also, the dogs are very trustworthy, but it is possible they found it irresistible. BRB

Whew! the turkey is unscathed. The windows were open in the breezeway, so it was a little cool in there. I put it in the fridge out in the garage, and there is one pumpkin pie in there. Oh, boy. The kitchen needs a little work, however. And the freezer was open all night, just a crack. We noticed yesterday it kept being open. Needs some rearranging to close properly and stay closed. Now anytime you close the fridge, it pops open. If you don't notice and close it again...

Still dark here, but time to get dressed and get moving soon.

Vacation! I am really looking forward to a few days off, almost as much as having Bonney and her family here.

I work part-time, with no paid leave or other benefits. This means that, in general, I can take off as much time as I want, if my boss agrees. So far, she has always said yes. I feel a little unneeded. I would like her, just once, to say, "can you come in for a few hours in the morning?" or something like that. On the other hand, because I have no paid leave, it is good for the bottom line if I don't work. And maybe she likes to be nice. Anyway, we have Thursday and Friday as holidays, and I threw in today for good measure.

Yesterday, I demonstrated to Meredith, Kerri, and Nora how I do the grant reimbursements. It is tedious and time-consuming, but not really difficult. It went pretty well. Kerri showed us the big notebook with all the information for the night staff. Meredith called it cross-training.

I worked through lunch and left about 1:30, stopping by the bank to make a deposit. I also stopped at Normal Hardware and bought a curtain rod.

Ray put up curtains in the Zen/bamboo room. They are blue and white--I made them for Amelia's room in another house, when she was old enough to want to "decorate" her room. It makes it much more like a bedroom.

We packed things into plastic bins and cardboard boxes and Ray lugged them downstairs. He also vacuumed the bedrooms within an inch or their lives. I made the beds, including opening up the loveseat upstairs (which is a bed). Got out towels for four. Dusted some. Needless to say, this is an endless job--although we did a lot, our room, my study loft, and the downstairs did not get done.

The chickens were out for a while and resisted going back in their coop. It was coming on to get dark and I worried that they would roost in the trees or somewhere in the yard and be vulnerable to predators. 

Vanessa and I made chili and apple crisp. Bonney doesn't eat wheat, Hank and Nicky are allergic to some legumes, the Captain doesn't eat beans and spicy foods much. It was hard to come up with a menu. But apparently kidney beans are okay for the allergic, we put a small amount of chili powder in and the Captain had a small serving. With a dollop of sour cream, it was excellent.

Ray and I headed to the UUFA at 7 for a special one-time choir rehearsal for the complaint choir. Anyone who wanted could send complaints to Amber, which she set to music. Deb H. played guitar, Diana the bongos, and a couple people have solo lines. It's very funny and fun to sing. "Everybody is on their cell phone..." it starts. We will sing this Sunday.

On the way home, we stopped at Publix and bought a few things we knew we needed for our guests, mostly four big cartons of yogurt, and cream cheese so Bonney can make her wheatless pie crusts. Carrots and fruit.

Ray and I were both pretty stiff and sore.

The weather is peculiar, too warm for this time of year, cloudy and humid. But it's not cold.

A few more contributions came in over the weekend from the Harvest, including one for $500 from someone I  know, so that was good. Payroll. Ray doesn't teach this week, so he stayed home all day. I went home for lunch, which is pleasant but short. It was about 70 at the warmest today. I took two bags of plastic to recycle from the Shelter and went to Lowe's to buy a new filter for the vacuum cleaner--and 4 plastic bins to help put away some things that are cluttering up the house. They had some that were recycled plastic--and inexpensive!

It was pretty nice out when I got home--let the chickens out and did a little tidying in the yard. Ray and the Captain worked on the wood. I came in and put some things in my bins. As some people like to point out, moving things from one place to another doesn't really solve the problem, although it makes more space in the bedrooms. Made supper, had a drink and snack, watched TV, did some more straightening up, and went to bed.

Sore back this morning--duh!

Friday at work involved a lot of counting money, enetering information into Giftwoks and QuickBooks. M. did not feel good and wasn't there much. Preliminary estimate: we made about $20,000--very good, better than last year, but not the insanely high amount the Board had hoped for.

I won one auction item: 2 one hour sessions on the Pilates Reformer at the YWCO. Sounds scary, but a bargain at $20. I don't think there were many big ticket auction items this year.

Molli called to say Adrian was approved for a visa!!

Ran out for Wendy's for the second day in a row.

Ray and I picked up two boys after school at Clarke Middle, with gear, and headed north. Picked up one girl at a gas station on 441. The boys were pretty mean to Maia, fighting over who had to sit next to her and making silly mean comments about her. We stopped in Cornelia at Fender's, the diner we had eaten at before. They enjoyed it, I did not eat much of my food. The place was crowded. Note to self: open decent not too expensive restaurant in Cornelia.

We drove on up to the Mountain, arriving between 7 and 8. Registered and went to our cabins: Maia and I in 17, Ray and the boys in 1. The other women and girls in our cabin were nice (of course) and made Maia feel part of their group. We all gathered in the Treehouse and made nametags and played getting-to-know-you games. They said it was about 150 people, including advisers and PALs. We had meetings and family council until 11:30. It was pretty cold, but I managed to have 2 blankets on my bed. Slept oK. The adviser beds were pretty nice. I had some strange dreams and woke up a few times. I was thirsty and my water bottle was in the car. Ray had the keys and he was in cabin 1.

Went to breakfast, kids went to activities, we had free time, after a meeting where we heard about the dire straits at the Mountain. They fired half the staff because they couldn't make payroll, and they are set through the end of the year, but need a plan for next year. I worked on the directory some in my cabin until lunch. After lunch, adviser meeting, sat in the sun outside the dining room, knitting and talking to others. Ray took a nap on a bench. We walked down to the field to watch the kids playing Capture the Flag. Zach and Tycho were playing frisbee by themselves. Admired their 25 chickens. Walked back up. Free time for kids (with advisers). Maia chose to read in her cabin. I worked on the directory some. A few of the other girls stayed with us and others went with their leader to the library. suppertime, meetings, talent show (some very impressive--2 wrote and sang their own songs, others silly). Dance, Vespers, family council. Bed. Again, woke up often, weird dreams.

Breakfast, pack up and clean up, worship service (teary), goodbyes, get in the car. Everybody immediately hungry, wanting to stop, even though it is 11. Stopped at Dairy Queen in Clayton. Stopped at Tallulah Gorge overlook with interesting store. Home by 3, Maia's Mom in a meeting, came to get Maia at our house about 4. Chickens roaming.

Vanessa had been to the emergency room Saturday with hives. No idea what caused it. Medicine improved the situation, but still puffy and red. Something she ate?

Unpacked and did a small amount of tidying. Ate supper, watched TV, talked to Amelia, asleep by 9.

It was amazingly quiet at the Shelter yesterday. Kerri was off, getting her new puppy neutered, Meredith was running around buying things for the fund-raising event, harvest for the Homeless, so it was mostly Jaron and Greg (the intern) and me. There were lots of online ticket orders, especially for the raffle tickets. If anyone bought a raffle ticket online, I had to fill out the stub for them. If they bought an event ticket, I had to send them an email that said their name would be on the "will call" list. In either case, I had to enter the information in Giftworks and then post it to QuickBooks. So that kept me pretty busy. I also had one person come by and buy 25 raffle tickets, but she didn't have time to write her name and phone number on all of them, so I did that. Then we had a couple of calls about the dress code.

I ran out to Wendy's and brought lunch back. Meredith got there a little before I left. I gave her all the raffle tickets and a box of miscellaneous supplies I had thrown together.

I went to Five Points Eye Care and picked up my monovision contact lenses. They are great. My eyes are a little sore this morning, but it could be lack of sleep. I came home for a bit and changed my clothes and picked up my parents and we got there a few minutes early. I sat at the reception area until Meredith came and explained everything to the volunteers. The food was plentiful and very good. There were a lot of delicious dips and spreads, but not much in the way of crackers or bread. But there was pasta salad and fruit and veggie trays and lots of it. There were three bands and I really liked Betsy Franck and the Bare Knuckle Band--a little bit bluesy rock, I would say. The Rialto Club is lovely and lots of people came. At 8, I took over the desk for a little while and my friend Sarah Himmelheber sat with me for a while and helped. People came in and handed over $20. I think they were arriving for the last band, The Georgia-Florida line, which I would have liked to hear. Ray and my parents were leaving and he was going to come back for me, but a fresh crop of volunteers arrived to take money and I made my goodbyes.

So we were home before 9:30 and watched a little TV, but then I didn't sleep very well. Excitement, anticipation about counting the money today, and a little bit nervous about spending the weekend at the Mountain with middle schoolers. I remember when my girls were that age, going with them to cons. I am already exhausted and it will be a long day. Darn, why can't I sleep on demand?

Big fundraiser tonight, so lots of online ticket purchases coming in. When someone buys a raffle ticket online, I have to email them to ask for their phone number to put on the stub. I suppose they will keep buying right up to the last minute.

I tried on this dress to see if I should wear it. Ray said yes, but my parents said no. So I won't be wearing it. It's a cool dress--you can't see the tiny ruffles. Maybe it will look better on Molli. I will probably wear a long black velvet dress. Boring, but too tight.

I didn't have much work to do, actually, even though Meredith and McKenzy are working hard on the event. Ray and I had lunch at a new Italian restuarant. They have  special for $9.99--soup, salad, and entree. Pretty good, very European. I had Milanese Primavera and he had spaghetti carbonara, so we could both have some of each.

After work, spent a little time watching the chickens and then put them up. I made a double batch of macaroni and cheese, so we have some to freeze and some to take to potluck.

Annie between scenes

Ray managed to get some work done

Backstage at the Morton with some maids and a Boylan sister

I enjoyed potluck and choir, although we won't be there to sing this Sunday. Ray and I are driving to the Mountain with some middle schoolers from UUFA. We were tired and didn't even watch any TV before we went to bed.

Worked some more on the budget at Meredith's request. Looked for grant contracts for 2009 for the auditor. Had a great lunch at Last Resort with Becky. Hot tea for a rainy day--Earl Grey decaf! yay! Chicken tortilla salad and split a piece of Italian cream cake.

Felt sleepy after lunch with not much work to do. M. and M. were planning how to set up the registration Thursday night.

Picked up Ray, dropped Muhterem at a travel agent. She wants to go on a trip to the Amazon with one of her daughters. Bought gas.

It wasn't rainy any more, so I let the chickens out and watched them for a while. Every now and then I had to shoo them off the steps. Eventually I put them away and made a very mediocre supper. It was pasta with broccoli and cherry tomatoes. I didn't have enough broccoli and I only had a few cherry tomatoes. The broccoli didn't get cooked enough and we used whole wheat penne. So it was a bit dry and healthy-tasting. Captain had made chicken soup, so I had a little of that for appetizer. And later some apple crisp with ice cream.

In between, I went to a Community Center Committee meeting. The building is dried in, the electricity and plumbing have been installed. It has an extra electric connection in the attic, near the roof, in the event we can afford to install solar panels at a later date. It looks beautiful, lots of south-facing windows.

Fell asleep watching TV and slept a lot. Now, here comes the sun!

A pretty good rainy day yesterday. Ray stayed home. I went to work, but didn't have too much to do. Came home for lunch and ate leftover pasta with eggplant--yum! Home again about 3:30. My parents made supper--pot roast--and I made apple crisp for dessert. We had drink and snack and even played cards for about an hour. Then TV and bed. Not much to tell.

Miss Hannigan and Wacky

The Historic Morton Theater

Bittersweet feelings this morning. The play went well. Everyone has been quite nice about it. And now it's over. Good, I have time to do some other things. Sad, I will miss it and the people. Rain on the roof--good for the garden and we have the wood we need for a fire today.

orphans playing in their dressing room between scenes

Mary adds a seam to Lilly's stockings

Sandy spent a lot of time off stage

Yesterday morning, pancakes and church. Ray and I squeezed in lunch buffet at Peking. A lot of good food for under $10 each. Last show, lots of excitement. A little loud for me. Lots of picture taking. We did a good job and the audience really liked it. Lots of kids since it was a matinee. O.C. and Manita and their granddaughter, Sophie. Nancy and Elise S. Those are the ones we saw afterward. Change out of your costume for the last time and goodbye to the ouchy shoes. Carry them to the costumer's van. Make sure to take everything of your own. Meet on stage to take down the backdrops--9 of them! They have to have the pipes taken out (weighing down the bottom of them), then be untied at the top (24 places), then folded and put in plastic bags in boxes that are sealed with tape. It doesn't take long if you have a dozen or more cooperative people, which we did.

Arabella off stage

A gaggle of orphans getting some dance notes from Leia

Orphan in her Christmas party dress

There was mention of Barberitos, but we weren't exactly invited, plus we thought going home sounded really good. So we ate frozen pizza, watched TV, and went to bed before 10. Ah.

Another beautiful morning. As the sun rises, I can see a touch of frost, but it promises to be in the 60s again today. We have firewood ready, but haven't needed it yet.

Yesterday morning, I had a leisurely breakfast and finished my gold sudoku. I glanced at the clock and it was 9:52! Time to hurry to pilates. Ray was still asleep, so I left him there. Pilates was good, but made my shoulders hurt this time. The farmers market was fun, but not so much for me to buy this time. Fewer and fewer vendors. There is usually some group playing folk music, but this time it was Pink Floyd's We Don't Need no Education, followed by Purple Haze...fun. Got bread and a lovely napa cabbage. Headed to Earth Fare (which is not as convenient as Kroger, but I am boycotting them over the Christmas music and Earth Fare is better anyway). Got most of what I needed, but lemons were .99 each, so I will have to do without them I guess.

By the time I was home for lunch, I was pretty worn out and done for the day.Talked on the phone with Molli, had a nice bath, made supper, and that was the end of that day. Except for the play, of course. Which was fun and went well. I am just so tired, it is hard for me to have the energy it takes.

Last show today. It has been fun, but I would love to be able to spend this afternoon here, puttering around the house and yard, doing laundry, etc. soon, soon.

Jocelyn eating lunch in the sculpture garden

I finally got the pictures to download from my iPhone. So here are a bunch from our trip 2 weeks ago, in no particular order. Not that they are that great, but you get the sense of what it was like--really crowded, but with generally pretty agreeable people.

Yesterday, I had intended to leave work a little early, but it ended up being only about 15 minutes early, which was fine. Ray and I had lunch at the National. He didn't go to his office in the morning, but had work-related events in the afternoon.

I went home. Captain and Vanessa were sitting on the porch. He had bought a new chain saw and cut up a lot of wood, so was pretty tired. We all sat for a while; the chickens were out, and the weather was lovely. After they left, I dawdled around a bit, listening to music. I made some mini-whole wheat muffins for the concessions at the play and ate leftovers from the night before.

The play went well; the audience was very enthusiastic. I had email from a couple friends who were there last night and enjoyed it. I was so exhausted I could barely walk. It had taken me three or four circles to find a parking spot by City Hall, so had to walk back there at 10:30 and drive myself home, since Ray had the other car. I was afraid I would just suddenly fall asleep, I was so tired, although not really sleepy. I went to bed pretty soon, after ice cream and cookies of course. I woke up at midnight--someone was listening to George Carlin on TV and it was really loud!! (Ray) Then at 2, Zoe's barking woke me up. Jeez! And then this morning I only slept until about 6. Sigh. But it is a gorgeous morning again and I am looking forward to pilates--almost as good as sleep.

A beautiful day for a rally--a bit claustrophobic for me.

Tom and Ray

One of my favorite signs: I'm a  Democrat, but I can change if I have to (I guess).

There were a lot of bear references, which I didn't get. Guess I didn't watch the show.

 

Bonnie, Linden, and Paul

DC

for Molli & Adrian--The Olmecs invade DC.

OMG. I thought I was tired and sore before...Stayed at work with the auditor until after 5. Ran to the Food Bank to get milk--not much there. Had a quick supper at Last Resort, which I was practically too tired to enjoy. Brought half of it home. Nice to see everyone again at the theater. The show was a little draggy, it seemed to me, and the crowd was small and not enthusiastic. But we are almost sold out for the last 3 shows.

We stayed up until midnight watching TV and finally went to bed. This is going to be a long day.

Worked hard all day getting ready for the audit. Couldn't find everything in the time I had. Meredith worked from home all day and did not respond when I asked her to call me. I left at 5 and was very stressed. Ray stayed home in the morning and I came home for lunch and took him to his office--it is more than twice as long to drive to my office via his office. It was over 30 minutes.

I made a lovely casserole with green peppers and green tomatoes, among other things, and a most excellent salad with lettuce from the farmers market and currants and toasted walnuts. Then headed to choir. I dozed a little at the end. Took some jalapenos from the garden and gave them away. Watched a little TV, went to bed.

Woke up at midnight with stomach cramps and diarrhea for about an hour or so. I won't be eating any of those leftovers. Don't know what it was, maybe the outdated buttermilk--which tasted fine, smelled fine.

Weather has been lovely--the Captain worked in the garden some yesterday, leaving just as we got home.

Poor Ray has a bad cold. He spends a lot of time sleeping and hopes he can shake it in time to perform Thursday. Of course, he has to "perform" for students every day. Like Amelia, he can't really call in sick (unless he is deathly ill; they would have to cancel class).

I went to work. With help, we got the postcards mailed out for the Harvest for the Homeless. Then, I finally heard from the auditor. She sent me several spreadsheets to fill out and I completed a couple of them. I sent them back and called her to ask some questions. I had trouble understanding what she wanted. Finally I realized that some of what she was asking I had done a while back under Maureen's direction and sent to her. When I asked her about it, she said, "I didn't know what that was." Well, she could have asked me. Or Maureen shouldn't have told me to send it... She is coming Thursday and I have today to prepare as much as I can. I was feeling a little stressed when I left and said something to M., but she said, "I'm sure you will figure it out." Which should be encouraging, but somehow is not.

I drove to my counseling appointment, feeling unhappy and stressed, and wishing I didn't have to go. I had to really work at it to come up with things to say, and I finally left a few minutes early, with the understanding that I will call her if I want to make another appointment. I'm cured? I did feel pretty happy, even though the sun was going down and Ray was in bed. I talked to my sister Polly on the phone, played music and made supper, which he did not want when he got up about 7. I ate mine and it tasted pretty good. We watched TV and I fell asleep before 9:30, which I guess is because it used to be 10:30.

Payroll, weekend mail. Talked to M. about budget. Still need to find ways to cut more, unless we can increase income. One of our residents was evicted for leaving her kids at the shelter for another mother to watch (and drinking among other things). Went home for lunch; Ray slept in. He cut up the tree they cut down Saturday and then he and the Captain took down another one.

I planted 4 strawberries that Nancy H. gave me, and let the chickens out for a bit. We had a nice drink on the porch--sunny with blue sky, about 70 degrees. Then they went to Nancy's house and we had rice and beans for supper. Watched lots of TV, did some meal planning, went to bed before 10.

With my extra hour yesterday, I vacuumed downstairs before church--part of the cleaning I didn't get to, but good to do while the main part of the house is de-cluttered. Walked the dogs, ate pancakes. Heavy frost on the cabbage leaves--28 degrees.

Ray and I went to sing with the choir, even though we hadn't been to the rehearsals. It was a service about playing and we wore sock puppets while we sang, "Come Play with Me." Ray and I did not bring any puppets, but I had the pair of socks I wear as part of my costume for Annie, so wore that on my hand. Lisa Brown was one of the speakers and it was really fun. Must plan a games day for UUFA.

Went to EarthFare for lunch, so Ray could get gift cards. Ate a  healthy but not particularly tasty lunch. Found parking and got to the theater in time for dressing, makeup, warmups. The show went well--there were 300 people there, including my parents and several families from UUFA--Mary Jean and Ruthie among others. At one point, one of the main characters (Grace), an experienced and reliable actor, went to the dressing room and started changing when she was supposed to go on stage. The orphans and Miss Hannigan had to improv for about 5 minutes, quite successfully, apparently.

One of our Hooverville and Cabinet buddies, Mike, wasn't there today. We figure out who would say his lines and I had to move a piece of furniture that I don't usually. I have always said there is not enough light on stage when we are supposed to move furniture and Ray and I hit heads, hard enough for me to say oh my God or some such and Ray to say are you okay? Don't know if anyone heard it. Got the piece moved and the next scene started and Ray realized the lens from his glasses had popped out and was still on stage. We were trying to see it and warn the actors to pick it up (in character) if they found it, but Daddy Warbucks took care of it.

After the show, chatted briefly with my Mom and Dad, who really liked it. Then headed to John's house, where Vildan was serving Turkish food to many members of the geology department and all the Turks. It was delicious. I ate two helpings of everything--eggplant, green beans, chicken, salad. And a glass of wine--two buck chuck from the new Trader Joe's. Which I will not patronize because it is in Oconee County. Dessert was a rich pudding with chocolate sauce.

There were two little girls there--three and four, one Turkish, one American. The Turkish girl has been here a few months, going to nursery school three days a week, and speaks English quite well. I played with them quite a bit and was intrigued by the differences, cultural, developmental, and personality-wise. The little Turksish girl (I'm sorry I can't tell you here name--Akin?) was very energetic and physically gifted. I helped them do somersaults, but they were very wound up and throwing themselves into the recliner and throwing toys around. I went down and got a ball and rolled it to them, but eventually that became a kicking contest. I wanted to read to them, but no children's books around, so I started telling a story that we could all continue, but Akin was not really interested in taking turns and using words. Karin was very good at it and got into it. Then we sang some songs--Itsy Bitsy Spider, Wheels on the Bus, and more. Man, was I tired. I had sung all I could sing that day.

We went home and watched the new Sherlock Holmes, a very interesting show. The hero is quite antisocial, just as the hero of Doc Martin. Brilliant, but not very caring. I wonder what it does to me (or anyone) to watch shows like this? Does it make me more antisocial? Stayed up a little too late and then woke up a little early because of the time change. Getting light now--yay!

I slept about 10 hours last night, and it's still only 6:30, thanks to the time change! The sky is starting to get light out my window and I'm very happy.

Yesterday morning, Ray didn't get up until I was heading to pilates and he decided to stay home and "clean." Pilates was great, as usual. Only 2 other people, including the young man, Abe, who is married to one of Trudy and Charlie Gard'ner's daughters. They have two children. I invited him to Annie and he was happy to hear about it. I left a poster with Amanda (the teacher) to put up.

Then I followed the usual Saturday routine--buy gas, head to the farmers market and then to Kroger. There was some beautiful stuff at the market, even though it was awfully cold. I got lettuce and spinach and bread and eggplant and a few small zucchini. There were even tomatoes, but we had some from the grocery store.

At Kroger, I was completely thrown off by the fact that they were playing Christmas music on the PA system--November 6th! I was so upset, I told several employees that I would never set foot in the store again. It distracted me from my shopping, but I did buy lots of chicken (at good prices, to freeze) and even a pork roast and some ground beef. Perhaps one of the reasons it bothered me so much is I was getting hungry. Only spent about $100.

When I got home, Ray and the Captain were cutting down a tree in the backyard. I went ahead and ate something and froze most of the meat I had bought. They came in for lunch. Apparently, Ray's chainsaw didn't work for a while, and then the top of the tree hung up in another tree. After lunch, they worked on it for a while, with a come-along and a shovel and finally got it down.

Meanwhile, I had finalized my menu and started working on it. Peel and cut up the winter squash and cook it in the microwave...then puree in the food processor and add brown sugar and cream and butter. Well, it just took more than twice as long in the microwave. I think maybe it was the glass bowl. I have done it before successfully in a plastic one. I kept taking it out and putting it in the food processor and deciding it wasn't done enough and putting it back and cooking it some more. It was fairly frustrating. I mixed up a marinade for the chicken we were serving for dinner.

At the same time, my parents were packing up things and heading over to Nancy's house to stay for a week while they are out of town. Any change in routine is pretty tiring for my Mom, so she had a nap while the guys were working on the tree.

Ray helped peel and cut up the squash and then he peeled and cut up apples for dessert. I made a topping for the apple crisp and got it in the oven.

We never got to the vacuuming, but Ray picked up some things and then I insisted that he shower and change before the first guests arrived--his friend John and wife Barbara. I dashed upstairs and changed my clothes, then finished up the squash. He started the gas grill for the chicken and put out some cheese and crackers. We had some beer and wine and put the plates and glasses and silver on the table.

The Turks arrived at almost 6--they had to drive through game day traffic after the football game was over, so it took a while. It was still light enough to show everyone the chickens and the garden, although very cold. The chicken was done, I reheated the squash, and Ray made a beautiful salad with spinach, red onion, and apricots. We had some dressing we had made another day. Nine of us sat at the table, including one 4-year-old girl, mostly entertained by John, when I went and got some cards and some bouncy balls and the other small toys I keep in a basket for visitors like her.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the food--especially the chicken. I had made enough for 12, in theory, but it all got eaten. They were big breasts, and I had thought there would be leftovers. The apple crisp was a big hit. The young Turkish mother brought some pumpkin dessert as well, that we can eat more of today. Small squares sprinkled with nuts.

They were gone by 8:30 and we cleaned up a bit before collapsing on the couch to watch TV. I fell asleep almost instantly, sleeping through a very funny episode of the Vicar of Dibley, and crawling up to bed before 9.

Now Ray is up and has made a fire in the stove (and reset the internet for me). Unfortunately, iPhoto still crashes any time I try to import pictures, so there are only a few here that you may not have seen.

suit for second interview

Apple Seller

Ray as Eddie, the out-of-work carpenter

Gladys, Shirley, and Mabel

Well, I have been waiting for this day all week--maybe even longer! It is cold and sunny--31 degrees, frost on the grass.

Yesterday was a good day at work for the most part, although I can'r remember what I did for the most part. I came home for lunch, which, although short, seems to invigorate me. Ray slept in a little and dropped me off after lunch and picked me up again after 3.

At home, I made supper and we headed back downtown for the play. It went quite well--I would say our Act I scene went better, but our Act II scene not as well. The people are nice and sometimes I encourage the children and sometimes I hold the dog. In between, I play Scrabble with Amelia on my iPhone or show off my pictures or check my email.

When we got home, we didn't have to go right to bed because it was Friday, so we watched TV and ate ice cream.

Ray is still asleep; the Captain and Vanessa are up...and she is making scrambled eggs. Today is so busy that we are going to miss the cast party from 2-5 in Watkinsville. Pilates, farmers market, grocery shopping, maybe some yard work--I have a few strawberries Nancy H. gave me that I need to plant, and other fall jobs to do. The  house needs to be cleaned and food must be prepared for our Turkish friends who are coming at 5. Vildan is leaving on Tuesday and we didn't realize it would be so soon. This is the only night we can do it. So much for my day of rest. But we get an extra hour today and can sleep late again tomorrow. I don't think they will stay very late any way.

Feeling a little better this morning. Tired and achy and sniffly, but not too bad. Opening night went really well, except the dog didn't come when called. Her name is not Sandy, of course, but she has been doing it most of the time in rehearsals. Also, one of the assistants who did makeup and was helping follow along in the script, went to the hospital with chest pains. I didn't witness anything, but heard about it.

At work, Meredith was working from home all day (I guess). She just came by to pick up some raffle tickets. She and Kathleen are talking at a Women in Business luncheon today--a good thing; I'm just a little jealous. I printed out labels for the postcards we will be mailing in a day or two, making some changes to the mailing list as I noticed problems. Too bad I didn't notice them before I printed the labels. Also worked some more on the budget. I have cut and cut, but it is still too much. I wrote a blog entry for the new website--we'll see if she uses it. Had a quick lunch by myself at Quizno's, because the Thai place was closed when I went by--it was a little before 12, but they are supposed to be open at 11:30. It was good and fast and not very expensive--sandwich, soup, drink.

Dropped Ray off at Democratic HQ for his meeting at 5:15. When I got home, my parents weren't there. I was supposed to make an omelet or frittata, but there were a lot of rotten vegetables in my fridge and I didn't feel inspired. I went down to the freezer and found a pizza, but that wasn't too inspiring either. Mom and Dad and I went to Transmet and had some good pasta, a little wine, and I rushed off again. I was feeling kind of like I wished I hadn't committed to doing this play.

Picked up Ray, couldn't find a parking spot, so we parked at the bank--we're customers, so I hope they wouldn't tow us. Costume, warmups, makeup and on with the show! It was long, but we were home about 11. It was cold overnight and I went to bed with my makeup on.

Looking forward to the time change and tomorrow, when there is no play because of a home football game.

OMG! I feel like crap this morning...my head aches and the rest of me is not great. I think it is just exhaustion. Opening night is tonight and I didn't get to bed until 11:30 again last night. Drama at the theater--the assistant director reportedly quit 36 hours before opening night. She has been working with the director for years and is a city employee, so it's quite a shock for her to leave us all in the lurch at the last minute. On the other hand, it doesn't really affect me directly--although no one is supervising the 20+ kids, as far as I know.

Rain all day yesterday--cold rain. Met my parents for lunch. Working on the budget for next year most of the day, plus a few routine things. Home for a couple hours. My Mom made the fish soup that we had before from the basic variation and it was great. But I maybe needed a little something more hearty before the final dress rehearsal. Also, the election results had us pretty down.

All fine, just busy. Stayed in town after work, volunteering at Democratic HQ. Drove a lady to the polls and it took about an hour and a half. Had to wolf down a delicious sub sandwich from Little Italy, smelling up the dressing room. rehearsal not great. Got home after 10. Watched returns long enough to know we didn't want to watch any more, watched TV for an hour or so, went to bed late, woke up late...got to go.

Sunday, we made pancakes for Jocelyn and her daughter. She had friends from Bryn Mawr visiting for the rally, so there were at least six of them. She lives in a house near Harvard street with 5 other people--old, high ceilings, three floors...Then we spent some time at the Natural History Museum, before Jocelyn dropped us at Union Station. We had a pleasant dinner in the big old building and boarded our train with Dan Wallace and his two boys. The train trip home went well; arrived on time, drove home, Ray went to bed. I showered and dressed (bathed actually) and was at work at 8:15. All impressed and jealous. Dozed all night on the train, listening to my iPhone music and reading Pride and Prejudice, then falling asleep. Repeat.

Finished two reimbursement requests and hand delivered them to HED, as well as some routine checks and deposits.

Today is Election Day--Vote if you haven't yet.