Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Can't get enough architecture

Once again, going down a street that is too familiar and gasp! happen to notice yet another house with interesting lines. I sometimes wonder if dog walks are really sleepwalking adventures since these things go unseen for so long. The lines on this house are interesting and give me an idea for something in the garden. Whether that idea materializes or not is a different story. Don't hold your breath. 


 

Sunday, November 3, 2024

Misty is just chillin'

At  last my obsessive desire to make Misty comfortable (other than just making sure she's fed), is happening -- sort of. She has finally accepted the basket I put out for her as a good resting place until she convinces me to serve her dinner. Or breakfast. Or an afternoon snack. Whatever. Anyway, while she doesn't curl up in it for very long and doesn't use it for her bed at night, she deigns to curl up in it to make me happy. Or just because she can. Don't know, don't care. Just delighted she uses it at all. And yup, she's the dark spot in the basket.



Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Hiking adventure complete

Because the cuteness factor just never goes away, another Paco post is required. His Dad decided to check out his hiking ability the other day, and took off on the trail of one of our beautiful mountains. He was very alert to the idea that Paco might not be as vigorous a hiker as his previous dogs, but he was prepared for rest stops with water and potential carrying of a pooped out dog. Actually, Paco kinda amazed him with his willingness to go along with this endeavor and apparently did very well, though there were the expected breaks and a bit of carrying. Paco looks quite pleased with himself.


The other interesting thing in this picture is the art work on the area below. Don't know what it's supposed to be, and if it were possible for me to hike up to see it, I would, just to figure out what it's all about. And what a view. Wow!

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

October is a nightmare and not because of Halloween

To say it's been an interesting month is something of an understatement. It's been a month of frustration, repairs, and doctor visits. First my computer of 13 years (you read that correctly) decided it was ready to retire. The good news is I found one on sale (hooray!); the bad news is it needed an adapter that was crazy expensive just so I could plug in the ethernet cable. I'm sensing a conspiracy.

Then there was the refrigerator drama. Yes, the fridge was going on 17+ years. We love that fridge. Found someone to come fix it and hooray, it worked -- for two hours. OK then, hopped online to look for something we can live with, called 6 places, and went shopping. Here's the thing. Amana has been bought out by Whirlpool and Whirlpool apparently feels that stainless steel is the only way to go. As is the design choice for every other major appliance company. Because of our kitchen layout, etc., we prefer white to reflect light. Not to mention that I just really don't like the look of stainless refrigerators. Searching for a white fridge proved to be far harder a quest. We found one that we don't particularly love, but it's cold and that's what counts. Six days of throwing bags of ice to keep the food alive was no fun. And we'll get used to the new layout because, well, just because.

But wait, there's more. We're having plumbing issues (small but annoying) and have been told that we a. need a new part for a 4 year old faucet; b. need a whole new faucet for another sink; and c. the tankless is on its last legs and will replaced tomorrow. Deep sigh. As for the bathroom fan - you guessed it - needs to be replaced. 

Saved the best for last. And kids -- DON'T DO THIS. I succeeded in performing the stupid old person trick of falling off a ladder. Yup - the classic it's an easy task and will only take a minute fall. Fortunately, nothing broken, though the bruises make a great Halloween costume.  

And thus endeth the tale of October - the true horror show.

Thursday, October 10, 2024

What's with white trees?

On those occasions when I actually get in the car and go somewhere, I pass this tree which makes me wonder what's up. It looks like a real tree that's been painted completely white, but I'm at a loss as to how that was done and what that means. Any guesses?



Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Dine and dash

You'd think a cat would be grateful for being fed (now twice) every day. You might think a cat who comes to the front door to tell you to take care of her dietary needs would let you pet her. Or maybe not hiss at you. Or just maybe would stick around after licking the bowl clean to have a chat or leave a tip. Welp. Misty not only doesn't pay for her meals or leave a tip for excellent service, she scarpers right after eating for parts as yet unknown. And somehow I'm totally okay with that. 

The basket to the right of the picture is set up for her to snuggle in if she so desires. Has she used it? Why no. Thinking of building a little house over it so when the rains finally do show up, she'll have a snug place to settle. It's under a table, so that will provide some added protection from the elements.



Sunday, October 6, 2024

Cuddles

Super quick update on Paco the Pug - who now goes by Taco or Ding Dong depending on the person and the situation at the moment. This sweet pic is Paco happily snoozing on - not a pillow as you might expect - but his Dad's chest. Dad had settled down to watch TV and Paco decided to join him in the sweetest way. Awwwww. Bonding complete.