I Packed my Bag and in it I Put....

...well, after much faffing around I finally got the suitcase all packed, went to weigh it and saw about a 5 inch gash in it!!! PANIC!!! If I was travelling in a car I might chance it. On a plane? Nope. The airlines aren't careful with bags and I have four planes (two there and two back) to go on. I didn't want to chance it. The suitcase is...well, donkey years old...so I didn't feel too awful about buying another one. This was at 5 o'clock this evening. I quickly looked online, saw where a reasonable one was available and had hubby drive me there. Phew. Problem solved. 

I cooked dinner - an experiment that wasn't too successful although the guys said it tasted good (so I suppose that's all that matters in the end), did the washing up, drained the sink and it didn't. Nope, didn't drain. Sigh. I tried a bit of baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) and some white vinegar and managed to get the water cleared. Any other problems are officially husbands. 

Hopefully that will be it. I must admit to being a little cautious as things tend to come in threes (according to my very wise Mum). 

I have checked in online. So I'm taking a little break before toddling off to bed. Hopefully I won't be too worried and will be able to sleep. As husband tells me, I am always this way before leaving. It's not the travelling that worries me, it's the getting going. 

I'll try to post while I'm away. It probably won't be consistent (when is it ever?) I will be posting stories to my Instagram I'm looking forward to spending time with sister and just enjoying things. 

Photo for today - Asylum Lake view. I'll miss my morning walks, but I'm looking forward to doing something different for a while

*BTW - I loved the game of 'I Packed my Bag and in it I Put' when I was little. Did anyone else play it? 

Ta-Da ---- Cross Stitch

I managed to finish it and frame it!

I'm so pleased

I'm beginning to feel a little stressed, but husband reminded me that I always feel this way before I travel so I'm trying to not panic too much. 

Tomorrow will be busy, busy, busy. I have started pulling some clothes out and washed a few but I haven't started packing yet. I always worry about what to pack, but it all seems to work out ok. I'm going to start out the day with a walk and go from there. 

I Always Seem to Leave Things Until the Last Minute

The week is going too fast. I feel as though I'm running out of time. I leave for England on Friday. I'm really excited. 

I decided - last minute of course, because is there any other way - that I wanted to take something to give to my sister. She has just had one of her bedrooms - the one I stay in - decorated in cheery yellow and she calls it her bumblebee room. So what did I decide I needed to stitch? Yes, a bumblebee. Do I have any patterns in the masses I have on hand? Nope. I searched Etsy, found one I thought wouldn't be too hard and maybe - just maybe - I can get stitched and made into something before I leave early Friday morning. I quickly ordered it, downloaded it, printed it, went upstairs in the heat and found all the floss needed (thank goodness I had that organised at least lol). I also found a bit of aida. I started stitching on it, decided I didn't like the colour and just started it again on white. Will it be finished in time? I honestly don't know. The holes seem a lot smaller than they used to - though probably that's just my eyesight (joys of getting older).  

Perhaps you might see a finished item here lol. 

Weekend

It's been a pretty good weekend. Hot. Too hot for me. I did go out for a walk with husband both days. Ugh. We were both sweating even with a little exertion. We did quite the walk today. Husband chose the place to go as I was uming and ahing. I wasn't that enthused with his choice, but I went along with it. Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Husband said, we haven't been there for a while. I was thinking, yup, that's because of the hills. I don't like walking all uphill. I think he had forgotten about them, though the name should have given him a clue - dunes=hills. The hills just about did him in! It's pretty much a mile and a half to the beach through the hills, down to the beach, then you have to climb up the sand hill to walk back through the woods up some more hills. I think the sand makes it worse. Needless to say, we were both sweating when we got back to the car, but I think I fared better than him as I walk most days. I still don't like hills though. 

Before we stopped there, we stopped at a Sunflower field. It isn't completely in bloom yet, but there were quite a few sunflowers. I reckon I'll miss most of the blooms and I wanted to see at least a few. I really did enjoy that stop - much more than the hilly walk!

I think it's really generous of the owner to allow people to visit. This is one of the few fields where there isn't a cost to visit or take photos. There are even little cutouts amongst the flowers so people can take photos without trampling in the flowers. They do have a little stall with sunflowers and (today at least) some tomatoes. We bought a couple of both. I want to support the farmer and hope others who visit do the same!

Where Did the Week Go?

It's Friday again. I can't believe the week rolled around that quickly!

The rest of the week was fairly quiet. Son was glad to be home with the internet and I'm sure the cat was too! He's a sweet little cat but quite shy. He tends to hide when anyone else comes over. When my other son goes to watch him (if middle son goes away) he barely comes out from the covers on the bed or son's coat. He is really attached. 

The week has passed in sort of a blur. It's turned hot again - yuck. I wanted to start, if not sorting, at least organising the craft room so there was room to work in there. It's just been too hot. I go up there, do a little bit and then come back down again. I feel like a bit of a yo-yo! Things have got put away though and I'm almost to the point where there is a nice space on the desk so I can create things. I am hoping that, when I get back, it will be a bit cooler, and I can go upstairs and do some crafting. 

Next Friday I'll be off to England until September. I am so excited. It's going to be lovely to see sister again. We have lots of walks planned - if the weather cooperates - and lots of relaxing. I chatted with sister C today. She had some bad news regarding our other sister, D's husband. He had a scan, and they have found two growths (very small) on his liver, but it means more chemotherapy. Sigh. It just never seems to end for them. They did manage to have a small holiday (first in years) before they got the news. 

Photo for the day - Sunrise. 

Plans for the weekend - not sure. We're probably going to try to beat the heat and humidity and get out for a walk. Do you have plans for the weekend? 

Bumpy Start to the Week

I had plans to tackle a few things this week, but the beginning of the week has got off to a bumpy start. Yesterday, middle son (J) rang and said that his internet was out, and he needed to come over to the house to work. It was off all day, so he was at the house, and it threw me a little off schedule. I just thought I could do some of the things I'd planned today, only when I was out walking, he rang again to say that his apartment building had a gas leak and they had to evacuate! He had been sleeping. He quickly got dressed, grabbed his cat and left the building! He was at the house all day again today, only this time he had his cat. Poor cat just hid behind the curtains most of the day. Son had to miss work as he hadn't grabbed his computer. I'm behind on everything. He finally got the all-clear to go back to his apartment only to receive a text (just as he was leaving our house) to say that the internet was out again!!! I might yet see him again tomorrow. Thankfully, both days we've had enough dinner to share the meal. 

So, I haven't got as much done this week, so far, as I had hoped! 

Yesterday was my Asylum Lake meeting. It went okay. I debated whether to go or not, but I'd feel guilty (don't know why!) if I didn't go. I might not go as much in the winter (depending on the weather) so thought I'd better attend while I can. I always feel as though we have a productive meeting when I do go and I didn't feel quite as out of place as usual. I'm in charge of social media and though I'm not doing a fantastic job I am doing okay. It takes quite a bit to build up a following and I'm still finding my footing.

Spending/Budget - thank you so much for everyone who took the time to send me comments! I feel as though writing things down is the way to go. This will probably wait until after I get back from England. Husband is hoping to retire in three years, and I am really need to get the budget under control. We want to be able to still do the things we enjoy. We aren't big spenders eating out and such, but we do have a few subscriptions and buying things on a whim is something we admittedly still do.

Photo for the day

Walking the fields. The heat is beginning to build again! 

The Weekend

It's been a bit cooler here over the weekend though it's going to heat up again tomorrow and onward. Still, I have enjoyed it while I could. Saturday I was actually up in the craft room. There was a lot of moving things around from one spot to another, but I did sort out a small pile that I'm willing to get rid of. I am in the process of clearing off the desk, so I'll at least have a spot to work. I'm hoping that once I start creating, I can see what brings me enjoyment and what I can decide to get rid of. At least that's the plan! It isn't a big room but, if it wasn't for all the stuff in there, it would be enough for me. 

Today husband and I went out for the morning. We did stop by the beach. It was quite pleasant as we were there when it was fairly cool. There is still smoke in the air, so the sun wasn't really hot. There weren't a lot of people around either (which I particularly enjoyed lol). There were quite a few people fishing. After we had stopped there, we drove along the lakeshore a bit and stopped at another park. That was also quiet (at least for a while). We sat on an old bit of concrete (think it used to be part of a pier) and enjoyed looking at the lake and hearing the gentle lap of the water. I really miss the sound of waves on the beach, but there was a tiny breeze so a little bit of sound!

This afternoon I chatted with daughter and Baby A. They are all feeling so much better now. Baby A was her usual funny self. I so enjoy spending time with her. Even at her age (while it holds her attention) she's good at carrying the phone around and even propping it up so I can watch her lol. 

This week I have to really work on the budget. Last month was quite a strain on finances. This month I need to buckle back down. I am really debating whether I should start writing down everything that we spend. Do you do that? I'm sure I'd find out some things that we spend more on than we should.

Phone Photos for today - 

All-in-all it hasn't been a bad weekend. I've been pretty productive too! How was your weekend? 

August Already - July Decluttering Totals

Wow this month has just flown by! I think I've been saying that for a while, but I really don't know where time has gone. The decluttering is still plodding along. The totals aren't great this month, but there has been other stuff going on and I'm (sort of) okay with that. I think anything that leaves the house is better than nothing! Over the last couple of days, the weather has turned cooler and, although things are supposed to heat up again, tomorrow doesn't look to be a bad day and I plan on going up to the craft room for a while. It's certainly beginning to take on a hoarder vibe and I'm not okay with that. Something has to change!

Anyway, here are the totals

Craft Items - 28

Magazines - 5

Books - 41

Misc - 7

Definitely not the strongest month! 

I am pleased that last month the goal of the front porch was reached and Baby A really enjoyed it. Definitely worth the work!

Plans for August - I really am not putting any pressure on myself to get rid of things this month. I am leaving on August 15th for a three week visit to my sister in England. I'm so excited! I'm sure there will be a few things leaving the house - but no pressure :) I just want to leave the main areas of the house tidy and somewhat organised so the menfolk just have the minimum to do after work to keep things on track. 

Are you still decluttering? How is it going? Are there things you are struggling with? 

Photo today - berries collected for my friend while we were out walking. 

Have a great weekend!

Mid-Week

 I was going to post yesterday but later in the day I started feeling a bit off, like I had a touch of the chills and a bit achy. The same tonight though not so bad. I'm feeling ok in the daytime. It's just in the evening it's happening. Not sure if it's the heat or what. Currently it is raining and I'm not complaining as the temperature has dropped to 70F/21C which I think is the lowest it has been day or night in a little while. It's been too hot for my taste and I'm not the only one moaning about it lol. The humidity in the mornings has been about 99% which means it's sticky and sweaty without even moving. The walks have been shorter. 

There was a lovely sunrise the other morning and this morning some lovely cloud formations

It makes going outside when it's that sticky worth it. 

Inside the house not a lot is happening. I have been popping up to the craft room but it's just too hot up there to do much of anything or stay for long. I am still getting rid of things, though admittedly I think the totals are down this month. I was going to make a last-minute dash to get rid of things this month, but I don't think it will be happening. 

I can't remember if I shared or not, but poor daughter has the dreaded Hand, Foot and Mouth disease. She has sores in her mouth and a terribly sore throat. Baby A is still home from daycare. I do hope they will feel better soon! 

How is your week going? 

Sunday

It's been another hot one here in my part of Southwest Michigan. I do wish it would cool down just a little bit. I can't say I feel like doing much of anything when the heat is bad. We did go out for a little bit this morning though nothing seems to have gone right and we didn't stay out long. To be honest, when I got home I didn't do a lot of anything! I have made a list for tomorrow and I shall get back into doing things tomorrow. It's supposed to be another hot one but there may be some relief in a few days! I would love to get up in the craft room but it's boiling up there and I can't stand it for long. 

This week I need to get back on track with the budget. We splurged a little last week so now it's back to watching pennies so I can get back on track. There is still quite a bit of food in the freezer so I'm going to root around and see what I can come up with regarding a meal plan and buying limited food. I find it a bit of a struggle to cook when it's hot hot hot! I think we have some lettuce left and maybe a couple of cucumbers so maybe some sort of salad will be a side. Husband bought a couple of fresh cucumbers off somebody at work. They are just lovely! This person at work has a garden and last year shared some produce with us. I told husband to ask if he was willing to sell some of his extra produce to us if he had some which he said he would have extra. 

I thought I'd have to share a photo of a favourite summer snack - there's not a lot left here!

What's your favourite summer snack? 

A phone photo from the bit of beach we managed to see lol. 

Hope everyone has had a good weekend!

Back

We had a lovely visit with Baby A and her family. She has grown so much! We blew lots of bubbles together and looked out the window to the birds and the squirrels. She's starting to say a few words and she would wave to the squirrels and say (her version of) Hi, Mr. Squirrel. It was adorable. We did go outside for a little while but it was quite hot so we couldn't be out there for long. On the cooler days we took her to a local park and Lake Michigan. She wasn't a big fan of the water, but she did like playing in the sand. 

It was hard to say goodbye. This week was definitely a roller coaster of emotions - happy to see daughter and Baby A, sad to say goodbye, happy to spend time with them. This week was also the anniversary of when we lost Mum. Four years. I can't believe that much time has passed! She would have really adored Aurora. She always enjoyed the grandchildren and Great-grandchildren. My sister went to Felixstowe to her bench and laid some flowers, she took a bunch from me. I always find it a really emotional time of year. I'm trying to keep busy so I don't think about missing baby A and Mum!

Poor Baby A, she had a runny nose the whole time they were here and later in the week a low fever. Apparently, she has hand, foot and mouth disease again! Daughter and SIL were going to take her to daycare on Friday (they left on Thursday) so they could have a day out together. This is when they were told the slight rash she had (that we all thought was because of teething dribble) was hand, foot and mouth. The daycare had a case last week that they didn't bother to tell daughter about! She wasn't too happy. 

Here are a couple of photos

Flowers at Mum's bench

Baby A trying on her Mum's glasses

The banana split Baby A and I shared - yum! We did make a bit of a mess lol

Sierra (top) and Sasha say travelling is such hard work! 

Sigh. Now it's time to get back into the groove for a little while!

Where Has the Week Gone?

The week seems to have flown by and I'm not sure where it's gone! The last I posted it was only Tuesday. I take a breath, and Friday has rolled around again. I am happy to report that things in the house are coming along nicely. I'm really pleased with how things have progressed. There is still a bit too much clutter (mainly knick-knacks) on a couple of surfaces for my liking but otherwise I'm really pleased with how things are looking. Now it's a matter of keeping it as tidy as it is. The sad thing is that there are many other areas of the house that need attention BUT for now I'm enjoying the tidiness of the main living space. It's quite relaxing. 

This afternoon I messaged with sister. Time seems to go by so quickly when we message. Sometimes I wonder what we're going to talk about. My life is very, well, uneventful so I don't have a lot to report to her, but before I know it three hours have passed by and it's time to say goodbye for another week. There are only four weeks until I go visit, as she reminded me! I'm so excited. I love these visits home. They seem to reset things and give me pause to get out of routines and just enjoy things without being on a schedule. I'm so thankful that sister lets me stay with her. I think I would have felt lost without her. 

What is going on for the weekend? Well, I'm really happy to say that daughter, son-in-law, baby A and two dogs are coming to visit for a few days! I'm so very excited to see them all again! I'm going to try to post a time or two (they will be here until next Thursday) but it will be as time permits. We don't get to see them very often and I want to enjoy every moment. Also, daughter has asked if she can borrow my laptop while she is here as she has to study. She has just started a master's degree. Of course, I said yes.

Hope everyone has a great weekend. 

A phone photo from my walk today. There were four deer on the path today. They barely paid attention to me at all!

 

Productive Days

 I certainly feel a bit more productive lately. The heat plods on but I'm trying not to let it stop me from getting things done. I overheat at some points (think heat and menopause lol) but I just sit for a while in front of the fan until things regulate again lol. The main rooms are coming along nicely. It's about time to tackle some of the knick-knacks that are displayed. I think I'm ready to let some go. I'm telling myself that it's better to pass them on to someone else who will enjoy them instead of them cluttering up my house and annoying me (which they are starting to do). I won't be getting rid of everything, but I will be thinning out. The memories aren't in objects. At least that's what I'm trying to remind myself. 

I don't think I mentioned this before, but the ceilings in my kitchen really needing cleaning. I don't cook with a lot of grease, but they still seem to get grease on them! I usually get up and down on the ladder, pull my back as I bend backwards to scrub and just end up making a horrible mess. I decided to see if there was a better way. I ended up ordering a thing on Amazon, sort of a mop for ceilings and walls. Very light and easy to use. It arrived on Sunday, and I gave it a go on Monday. I absolutely love it! I should have got one ages ago! It was less than $20 (I hesitated spending that much on something for the ceiling) but well worth every penny. It will make cleaning the kitchen ceiling and walls really easy and something that I won't hesitate to do on a more regular basis. 

I've got a list for tomorrow, one of the items is sorting out the large bookshelf by my chair. There is room on it, but the books are sitting rather haphazardly and need a bit of reorgnasing. Hopefully it will make things look a bit tidier! I want to get as much done as possible as Thursday is supposed to be (FINALLY!) a cool day so I want to use it to get up in the craft room, do a bit of sorting and (maybe) a bit of crafting!

Bit of colour this morning over Asylum Lake. 

Weekend

It wasn't a bad weekend. Quite productive. I did some walking, some relaxing and some sorting/cleaning. I did actually get up in the craft room (despite the heat) and although the worktable isn't all cleared off there is some space to work on. Hopefully I'll be able to get up there again this week. 

On Friday husband took the donation boxes to the charity shop. I have started to fill up another bag, but I don't want it sitting around too long so the plan is to fill it up and then drop it off. There is only a little bit more to sort in the living/dining room and then I will be (sort of) happy with the way things are. 

On Saturday, I went for my normal walk. It was quiet and peaceful. Today husband and I took a little visit to the beach and a walk along the lakeshore. It started to get a bit hot, so we didn't last too long lol. On our way back home I found a Sunday Farmer's Market and I really fancy some fresh tomatoes, so we stopped there and picked up a couple, some fresh eggs, a cucumber and some radishes. Not the cheapest, but both the eggs and the tomatoes were so good! The tomatoes actually had some flavour which I find the ones I find in the shops not to have. I really need to grow some next year!

This week - I have a list made for tomorrow. I do need to make a menu plan. It's on the list to do. I want to make sure to use some items from the freezer in the meal plan. I don't think there will be a lot of food I'll need to buy this week, but I'll make a list and go on Tuesday. 

A couple of phone photos from today

It was actually quite peaceful early in the morning, only a few people around. 

Are There Photos of New Buys?

The answer is no. Lol

I did manage a tiny walk this morning. I almost didn't. I got up and the weather did not look good. I almost stayed home. Then I looked out of the window and saw a tiny bit of blue. In a way I would have felt a little guilty if I didn't at least try so out I went. It spat for a bit, drizzled and light rain. I did a little bit of a walk and then headed back to the car. It was nice and quiet. Yes, I got a little wet but not drenched. 

The skies were rather pretty. 

I did find some pillows. I didn't find curtains. Sigh. Not pleased. I feel this is going to be something I'll have trouble finding. There was quite a bit of cleaning done today. So that was a plus. I also had a lovely video chat with Baby A this evening. 

Cleaning, Walking and Mumblings

It's almost the end of another week. I'm not quite sure where this one has gone either! I am pleased with all the house stuff I've been getting done. I haven't got a lot of sorting done, but I have been doing some extra cleaning and scrubbing. I really do need to make a cleaning master list so I can keep up with things. There are little details I seem to have missed. It's quite frustrating. I'm going to give myself tomorrow to do a bit more of the cleaning bits and then get back on the sorting. There are a couple of areas of the main floor that I need to take care of! Usually on the weekends I try not to give myself any house-y stuff but this weekend I'm going to make sure I get some done. 

I'm still plodding along with the walking. My ankle is still hurting me but I'm still going out each day. I've been trying to keep the brace on at home and that helps especially if I'm going up and down the stairs. The flies out yesterday were particularly bad. My friend and I walked along flapping our hands trying to keep them off us lol. I only got bit by something once and I don't think it was the bad ones as it didn't swell up. 

In the morning, I'll walk again if the weather cooperates. Right now, the forecast is for rains and storms first thing in the morning, but it might change before I get out of bed! I don't count on the forecast anymore. I'll wake up, take a look and then see whether I'll walk or not. Perhaps the rain will stay away for a while. I do have to go the post office to post a few things tomorrow and then to the shops. I have made a list of a few things I'd like for the house. I'll see what the prices are and decide what I'm going to end up getting. The curtains in the kitchen are looking a bit dingy. I did try washing them, but they don't look good so I think I might try replacing them if I can find anything I like. I should have looked at the charity shop while I was there as sometimes, they have some nice ones at good prices. I'm actually not even sure what kind I want in there. Currently we have a small window that has a curtain topper thingy (that's not the technical name lol) and then a long-ish window with some half-curtain thingys on it. That probably doesn't make a lot of sense. I like having light in the kitchen and it faces the back garden so no-one can peek inside. It's just a pain trying to find any that a) I like b) that fit C) that don't cost a fortune! 

Perhaps I'll take a photo of anything that I do find tomorrow. I don't want to spend a lot of money but would like to spruce things up a bit. 

Enough babbling. It's finally beginning to get dark, and I might toddle off to bed. Before writing this, I was almost dozing off sitting here watching Vera episodes (I've already watched them A LOT)

Photos today - some fungi in the woods. that first one is a tree trunk of (I think) Chicken of the Woods. Apparently, you can eat it. Sometimes you can see where people have come along and cut bits off. I'm not sure what it tastes like. I don't think I trust myself to know what's poisonous and what isn't!

Monday, Tuesday

The days seem to be flying by. I seem to run out of time no matter what I have planned. I have done my usual morning walk Monday and Tuesday. Monday was quite dark and drizzly though not cold at all. I was tempted to give up and go home. I didn't. My clothes got a bit damp, and my hair got really frizzy, but at least I walked for a little bit. This morning was better; it was milder this morning and quite pleasant until things warmed up at bit. I always feel better for a bit of a walk, but my bad ankle is playing up at the moment. It's been quite painful to walk on. I'm not sure if it's the heat or humidity aggravating it or I've done something to it. I am putting off going to see a doctor. Hopefully it will improve when things cool down a bit. 

On the home front there's not a lot happening. I'm still plodding along, moving bits around but not seeming to sort out a lot. I am writing lists and checking things off. I think I need to modify the lists though - perhaps a daily one and then things I'd like to get done in the week and also in the month and then add a daily or monthly to the lists as I write them. I'm thinking that might work for me and I'll end up getting more things done. I still end up procrastinating far too much! 

I think, back when the children were little, I used to have a list of things around the house that needed to be done daily, weekly, monthly, and every six months or so. Perhaps I need to create something like that again. Do you have a cleaning list like that? I like a routine. I have my dailies and my weeklies, but beyond that nothing planned which perhaps is the problem. I think if things get done on a regular basis it's a lot easier to clean/take care of things. 

That's enough thinking for now lol. On my walks, apart from the mugginess and heat, I have been enjoying the beauty of summer. We've had a bit of rain, so everything is so lush and green right now.

Weekend

It's been rather a relaxing weekend. Yesterday husband and I went to the flea market (a cross between a boot sale and market). It's been years since we've been. I thought it would be something different to do and have a little look around. We lasted about half of it before we both agreed it was too hot, and we left.  We'd like to go back perhaps when it's a little cooler. We wouldn't want to go there all the time, but we agreed it was rather fun to have a look around!

This morning we got up really early (I was up at 4.30am, husband even earlier) as we had decided to drive across the state to go to the National Wildlife Refuge drive and see what we could see. It was a fun day. We walked just a bit (still hot and humid) on the trails but had a good time seeing what we could see. The wildlife refuge is basically just an unspoiled green space that wildlife and birdlife tend to gather close to as there are a lot of waterways. We say loads and loads of egrets and herons, a couple of eagles and lots of other birds. We both had an enjoyable time. 

Later, when we were home, middle son and his girlfriend came over and ate with us. A nice ending to the long weekend. 

Some phone photos from today. 

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend and a good start to the week! What are your plans this week?

Decluttering Totals for June

 Better late than never, right? 

Time has got away from me again, but I think I'm back on track. I do have some blog catching up to do!

I wanted to get this one written as it's a bit of personal accountability. Overall, it wasn't a bad decluttering month. We were away for a week in June so definitely not as much decluttering done as I'd hoped. 

Craft Items - 30 

Magazines - 21

Books - 62

Misc. - 20

There were also a bunch of travel pamphlets that I let go of, the ones you collect (well, I do) when I visit places. 

Goals for July - to continue with the decluttering. To keep the main areas clear of clutter. I also want to work on the bedroom as it's suddenly become a place to dump stuff. Not really conducive with relaxing sleep! 

How is your decluttering coming? 

And because I can't write a post without including a photo - a picture from the walk this morning, another hot and sticky day

Weekend

I actually managed to get out for a walk both mornings. This morning though I was up later than usual (still early lol) as I had turned off the alarm. It was fairly nice out though, so I thought I'd get out and take a quick walk. It wasn't a long one. It started to warm up quite a bit and there were lots of bitey flies around. I got tired of walking along swinging my arms and hands about my head and body trying to keep them off me. I didn't succeed in stopping them from biting me. I had, however, found some After Bite cream the other day while sorting through the bathroom drawers, so I applied some of that when I got home and it seemed to work. The bites had been swelling up, but it stopped. Thankfully. I shall know to avoid that place for a while as there was just too many of them around!

Apart from the walks I haven't been anywhere else this weekend. I have got quite a bit done at home. The pile of magazines has been read through and parted with. There was, I think, one I kept to re-read something. It was a photography magazine. A pile of books also got sorted. I was debating on whether to try to sell or donate. I got tired of the pile sitting there and decided just to donate them. There is one pile left to deal with tomorrow. It's the last day of June so I have only the day to get it done! I'm not sure on how long the room will be pile free, but tomorrow it will be! 

There is a lot more to sort through, but I think, in future, I'm going to try not to have it all piled up. I have to make a plan for next month to at least get rid of some things and not pull a bunch of stuff out to have it sit in the living room!

This week I want to try to use up some food in the freezer and cupboards without turning on the oven too much. The heat is still persisting. I need to add up decluttering totals for last month and set goals for July.  I really think that keeping a tally of items I'm getting rid of is keeping me motivated. The pad I'm keeping track of the totals in is on the table right by my chair and when I sit down, I see the numbers, and it keeps me going! What tricks do you have to keep you motivated? 

A few of the things that made me smile today

I'm ready to tackle another week!

End of Week

I was going to post yesterday but the headache was lingering on and I just couldn't concentrate on a lot of anything. It was back again today. Sigh. 

I managed to get out for a walk today, went to the shops to pick up a few bits and then home. I had lots of washing to do as I've been putting it off. Other than that, I didn't get a lot of anything done. The headache was still pounding. We had another round of pop-up storms but not a lot of relief from the humidity and heat. I don't have a lot planned for the weekend, so I'm going to try to catch-up on things I should have got done in the week. 

The piles in the living room haven't gone down. Actually, I've added to it. Sigh. I thought I was done with the magazines, but while I was sorting through another storage area, I found a bunch more! I've started looking through them and will then pop in the recycle or donate. 

I'm still determined to get rid of the living room piles. Three days to go. 

This afternoon I messaged with sister. She has been having fun finding all the Hares on the Ipswich Art Trail this year. There are some really lovely ones. She sends me photos of the ones she's seen that she thinks I'll like. I'm hoping to see a few when I go visit next month. 

There is one called The Memory Hare. She had Mum's name put on it. Made me a little sad, a little happy. 

I hope everyone has a nice weekend. 

Midweek

Ugh. It's still hot. Cooler than it was but hot and humid all the same. Storms and rain came through and I've had a headache for two days now. The weather is zapping my energy and making me just a little bit grumpy. Husband would probably say it's making me more than a little grumpy lol. 

I went for a walk yesterday (a little one) and tried to go today, but as soon as I got down to Asylum Lake and halfway around the lake the rain came down. I got really wet. Sigh. I did, however, get an early start on some errands and managed to get the housey things done on my list. 

The decluttering seems to be coming along slowly this month. I'm trying to keep the end goal in month, but I'm still finding it quite difficult to let go of things. The main area of the house is looking a lot tidier, but I don't think I'll be treating myself to that craft room air conditioner this year. Sigh. Perhaps next year. I think my goal for the end of this month will be concentrating on getting some more books donated and getting the remaining piles (2) sorted in the living room. I have five days left.

Some good progress - the porch is a useable space (if it was cool enough to sit out there!) and my husband has taken the protective plastic from the screens. I am really pleased with this. It was a goal to have this area done so I am definitely marking this as progress! I'm hoping once things cool down a little, I'll be able to sit out there and enjoy it a bit. 

Photo for the day

I found it quite amusing when this heron landed on the railing right by these people who were busy looking out at the herons across the lake. It made me smile!

Monday Monday

A bit of a moan about the weather - it's been really hot and humid here the last few days. We've been under a heat advisory for days. It always feels as though I'm breathing through a piece of cloth over my face when it's this hot and humid outside. I didn't go out at all yesterday. Today I did a small walk with my friend. It was almost 80f/32C when I went out at 6am this morning . We tried to stay in the shade, but if we do that the bitey flies (my name for them) get me. It doesn't matter what spray you put on; they bite. I'm allergic to this kind. I got bit the other day when we were out in the woods and first my thumb swelled up and then my wrist started to swell up too. Ugh. 

Okay, that's the moan out of the way.

Despite the heat, I have been quite productive. I got a couple of junk drawers sorted yesterday and started on the tall bookcase that I have. Today I sorted out some listing stuff and got that done. I also did a food shop - not my favourite thing to do, but it's done now! Because of the heat, I am trying not to turn on the oven too much. I need to find some slow cooker recipes as I think that would generate less heat in the house. The good thing is, we are eating more salads lol. 

Husband and son are back at work and things are slowly getting back to normal. They really enjoyed their week off. They did a lot of relaxing. They both work hard so it was really good for them to enjoy some time when they didn't have to do a lot of anything. I enjoyed walking the beach and the trails. There was some good bird watching at both places we went to. 

One of my favourite birds to watch - Black-crowed Night Heron

There were two hanging around the lagoon. I finally got to see one of them catch a fish and then fly away with it! They are really patient hunters. Much more patient than I usually am lol. 

I have lots of photos to sort through. I could end up getting distracted and spending most of the day sorting through them, but I am writing lists and trying to get things done. I have some work to do on time management. That's an ongoing struggle. I am definitely doing better than I was, but there is room for improvement. I can so easily get distracted. 

Back

Thank you so much for the comments on the last couple of posts. 

We had a lovely week away. It was quite relaxing. A part of me wished I could stay away for longer, another part of me wanted to get back home and get started on things with renewed energy. As I'm British I have to start off with the weather lol. It was up and down. At the beginning of the week, it was pretty chilly. We were glad we had taken warmer clothes along and we bundled up. It wasn't freezing, but the wind was...well, windy and the air was cool. Mid-week it got really hot, too hot really and we were all sweating (we'd taken along clothes for warmer weather too lol). Then it rained a bit - there were enough breaks that I could get out for a couple of long-ish walks. After the rain, the temperature was just right. The part of me that was glad to get home was also glad I wasn't camping this week as the temps are going to be really hot and humid. We're under a heat watch. Ugh. 

I saw some lovely sunrises and sunsets. We went to two different campgrounds and there was one morning at each that was especially lovely. 

After the chilly mornings and wind, I walked out to the beach one morning and the water was so beautifully calm and just peaceful. It was stunning. There was absolutely no-one on the beach for the longest time. 

The water was so calm it was hard to tell where the sky ended, and the reflections began. With all the bad in the world, this just reminds me that there is beauty. 

I am a little energised from my time away, though my energy seemed to wane a little as soon as I got home. I have to not let myself get sucked back down in the day-to-day things and keep my goals and plans in mind. I had some beautiful settings to do quite a bit of thinking while I was away. I'll have to see how well I do about keeping on track. 

I'll share some more photos in the coming posts. I have a bit of catching up to do. I hope everyone has had a good week. 

Mid-Week Post

I'm actually a little ahead of the game - well, rather our son who is coming with us, is behind - so I have time to write and schedule a mid-week post. Hopefully, I'm out somewhere reading a good book and enjoying the outdoors or taking a few photos. 

This week, when we go camping, is a good time to unwind a little and get away from the day-to-day routines of life. I'm going to take a little time to make some goals for the rest of the year. At the beginning of the year, I said I wanted to work on time management. So far, I think I've done pretty well, but I know there is some improvement to make! I think just being outside with no distractions will give me a little more time to think about a plan going forward. I have packed a pad of paper and a pen so hopefully I'll come back feeling refreshed and inspired!

I hope everyone has a good week.

Packed and Ready-to-Go

Almost. 

I'm not quite there yet, but almost. 

It will be nice to get away, to relax and not have to think about things for a while. I have packed a few books from the shelves which I am going to make myself read before any books on the Kindle. The bookshelves are dwindling but there are still too many books I have to read! I might even be able to update the reading list on the blog when I get back lol

I had a good walk today and managed to cross all the things off my list. I managed the drive to pick up husband okay. There was a little eek moment when I find out the road Google wants me to take is closed due to roadworks. I managed to find my way around them and to husband's work. He did drive the car back home! I also had a nice chat with sister. 

We're leaving around nine in the morning. It's about a four-hour drive to the first campground. We might be stopping somewhere on the way. We can't check in until later in the afternoon though. We might also stop somewhere to eat. 

I might check in during the week, but I am limiting internet time. It's a time to just relax and disconnect for a while. I hope everyone has a lovely week

Photo for the day - another collage of phone photos taken at Asylum lake

Plodding Along Through Life

It's been a busy few days. I've been writing lists to try to keep myself on track. We'll be leaving on Friday for our weeklong camping trip. I always feel a little bit anxious before I go on these. I'm not sure why. I know I'm going to have a lovely time. It's going to be very relaxing. I'll be taking a few books and my camera. I'll be walking, reading and sleeping. To be honest, I won't be doing a lot else lol

It's that craziness before you go away though, where you want (or rather I want) everything to be just-so as I leave the house. I'm not sure why, but there is something nice about coming back to a tidy house. I'm not sure everything will be just-so, though. I have to tell myself that's okay. I'll do what I can and be happy with that. 

I have remembered to get out my shower shoes. Last time, I forgot them. I ended up wearing socks in the shower lol. I could not bring myself to go bare footed in the communal showers. I also found some shorts to wear after getting out of the shower rather than struggling to not get my trousers/capris wet. I'll change back into my regular clothes back at the campsite. I have worked out that it will be easier that way!

Tomorrow is another full day. I'll walk with my friend in the morning, do some washing, sort some clothes, do the usual housework, then I have a haircut and later I have to go and pick up my husband from work. He uses a work van, but it has to be left at work for the week. Usually, my son would go and pick him up but he's working out of town. I'm not looking forward to the drive (it's about 40 mins away) but he'll drive back so it will be ok. I have done all of the shopping I needed to do today so I won't have to worry about that tomorrow! 

At the end of the day tomorrow (hopefully another blog post) I'll be all set and packed and pretty relaxed about leaving Friday morning. 

Some photos from our other walk on Sunday