Friction Preventer

Used faithfully: prevents foot blisters.

Think I've mentioned before how afflicted I've been my whole life with blisters on my feet.  Came to the conclusion a long time ago that my feet must have just enough of a different shape (or perhaps it is how I walk on them) that causes there to be friction, the rubbing that causes blisters and issues.

Years ago, I finally listened to The Husband and bought some sports tape that I use on my heels and foot edges before "socking" and "shoeing".  It's a miracle!  No more blisters.

Of course The Husband suggested the tape for a long time before I actually acquiesced.  That old stubborn thing I've got going.

Have been thinking about that a bit.  How reluctant I was to try a simple little preventive care to avoid pain and suffering.  Yep... a lot like obedience. Or consideration of others.  Or good manners.  Or disciplining my tongue.  Lots of ways that a small measure of preventive care can avoid pain and suffering.

Went to re-supply my foot tape.  They were out of the brand I usually buy.  Bought the store brand.  Big mistake.  Didn't work.  Wasn't the right kind of adhesive.  Don't like it.

Yet another thought there:  substituting my own desires/guidelines/parameters won't give quite the same results as following the ones set forth by the Almighty.  Usually ends up being problematic.

I rarely put on a pair of shoes without my tape.  Too bad I can't govern my behavior as easily.

Today's gratitude:  The Husband has returned.  I will sleep well tonight.

Lonesome

We were up before the birdies this morning since The Husband had a flight to catch.  By the time he'd made it to the office it seemed like a Monday.  I said difficulties/trials/problems/issues come in threes.  He should be good to go for the rest of the day.

Been looking for quite some time for something to go with something (clear as mud?) that I want to give some friends for Christmas.  Finally think I've found a solution.  When my order arrives and I dive into the preparation we'll see if it is as brilliant as I suspect it is.

Aren't these peonies stunning?

Stopped in at a local fabric store in search of - yep- some fabric.  Something very specific.  Pretty sure what I got will work.  The fabulous side benefit was drinking in the sight of these fabulous peonies.  (Mine are single peonies and lovely, but are now dropping their petals.)  Someday I hope to have a bush or two of these lovely double full-headed blooms. (My phone takes pretty decent pictures, doesn't it?  Of course, the operator could use some tips...)

Mmmm, chocolate.

And (lunch/dinner)"lunner"?  Why, Corner Bakery of course.  (If The Husband is out of town it must be Corner Bakery time.) I tried a different sammich today and loved it.  Had a coupon for a free bundtlette that I didn't even pretend to resist.  That will be dinner/snack.

My insecurities have diminished with the borrowing of 5 books from the library.  I'm feeling much better, thanks.

And today's best news:  Our electricity bill arrived in the mail.  A whopping $12.95.  Truly:  $12.95.  Yippee!  That's the kind of bill I can enjoy.

Musings At The End Of a Monday

Was determined that I was going to pull out of this funk I've been in.  Then I went for a couple quick errands.  Between the construction that stops traffic everywhere (even in our little out of the way neighborhood) and the drivers who either never knew or forgot the basic rules of the road - (people turning right at an intersection do not yield to a driver turning left across the traffic - no matter how "kind" they think they're being.  When you change the rules to suit your mood you only impede traffic. And yes, I did call him an idiot.) - I ended up just plain mad.  The Husband keeps threatening to move to Boulder (UT).  Too many days like today and I just might take him up on it.

Received some schooling over the weekend about generosity.  I try really hard.  Some areas are harder for me (to be generous) than others.  Some things are no brainers.  Brownies should be one of them.  Can't believe I'm still learning how to be generous. (And kind.)

Stopped in at Paradise to spend the last of my gift card.  After my last experience I wasn't sure I'd ever go back.  But this time, not only did they get the order right, it was delicious and delivered with a smile.  Kudos to Paradise Bakery.

Managed to get caught up on the weekend-neglected vacuuming, laundry, bill-paying - even tossed in some sewing time.  That baby blanket just might get finished before her baby actually arrives.

Was disappointed in our local newspaper.  I'm fond of "you're."  I fear it will disappear from our ever-evolving language because of the prevalence of the use of "your" (and wrongly, I might add) in its place.  But...yep...there it was:  "your" instead of the proper "you're" right on the front page.  (Just like the ever present "I seen" instead of "I saw".)  "You're" -- I will miss you.

Nook - 77 Books to choose from.

Feeling a bit adrift.  I haven't a single book checked out from the library.  Started one from a friend that will be a DNF (did not finish).  Started another recommended by The Husband.  Probably another DNF (am currently at a low tolerance level for some of the language).  Thank heavens I have 77 books to choose from on my Nook.  (And lest anyone think I'm a spendthrift, each of those was either a free or deal-of-the-day book.  Haven't yet paid full price for anything on my Nook.)

Today's gratitude:  for roses  - their sweet aroma - and for plenty of tissues for sneezes!

Weekend Memories and Offhand Thoughts

The Daughter (and her two daughters) arrived on friday.  We had a lovely weekend.  Went to lunch with our other Daughter.  (Had a burned sammich, blech.)  It was another of our great "ladies lunches."

The Son (and wife and chilluns) stopped in for a visit.  What warmth to my heart to see the kids all playing together out in the yard.

Welcoming group hug = Smiles and happiness

Grandson and Granddaughter played the Wii for hours - things finished as nicely as they began.

Taped Soap dispenser

Went to the movie on Saturday (don't waste any money on After Earth!) and discovered yet another way to utilize that ever-so-handy duct tape.

Hugs from female progeny gave The Husband a huge smile. (We seem to love our group hugs.)

Listened to a sweet little baby be blessed today in church.  Noted with interest the father blessed him with acceptance of all people.  I'd like to run into this little guy in about 20 years and see what he's like.

Was treated to some warm fuzzies for The Husband who did a neighbor-plumbing-rescue the other day.  She was so grateful.

I think this is a happy peony bush, makes me smile

Enjoyed sitting out on the patio last night (relatives and friend included) until the allergies attacked so ferociously I had to flee indoors.  Last night's gratitude:  for some Claritin D that enabled me to sleep.


I know there are other things I mentally noted that I wanted to remember. They have disappeared into that great memory abyss that seems to collect all those things I wish to remember but never can.

Tonight's gratitude:  for sweet hugs, sweet memories, sweet testimonies.  Sweet things that help balance out the difficulties of life.