Journal of an Optimist: Living Simply in Small Town America

Is it Winter in New York Yet?

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:22:00 +0000

I am sitting here looking out the window at a lovely yellow blossom swaying against a green leafy backdrop. Yes, it is November 10th and the grass is green. I am in Florida. My sister and I purchased a mobile home together in the spring. I am here trying on this snowbird thing for size. Snowbirds are defined as people who come to Florida for the winter. They usually stay until April and then they migrate back to the north once the threat of snow is past.
Now, when I say that I am trying it on for size...I mean it. I miss my little cottage, friends, and family more than I thought I would. Although in all honesty I did tell my close friend, the zucchini lady, that if I made it through a whole month I would be surprised. She had laughed at me predicting that when I heard about all the snow that they would be getting in western New York I would stay right here in Florida.

Well, on October 29th, a freak snowstorm hit the northeast wreaking great havoc. I cringed when I saw the news reports and made a beeline for the telephone. What a relief to hear that western New York state had been spared! I wondered if my furnace would come back on after a power outage...hmmm. The papers announced that 2 million people were without power for days.

My feelings of boredom seemed very childish when confronted with the shoveler above. I made a mental note to get out a little more... I haven't really given this place a chance, you know what I mean? This whole snow storm before Hallowe'en was just so wrong!

Today is November 10th and the northeast has come out from under the effects of the storm. The sun is shining here with a cold front moving in that will drop the temperature down in the 40s at night. The winds will pick up causing waves on the bay from 3 to 5 feet...no odds to me since I don't have a boat and I won't be trying out my water wings.

I have found a beach cruiser activity group that get together to go places. Wonder if I could get one of those bikes soon? Not in the budget...wonder if I could barter transcription or word processing for one?

Plan B? I have googled a volksmarch group called http://suncoastsandpipers.org/ and I have been added to their mailing list. Do you remember Pallidin? Well this is "Have running shoes, will travel". No beach cruiser needed.

I still miss my grandkids and wish they were coming down to visit me. I have calculated just how much gas I would need to go up to see them at least six times since I got here. They live in Huntsville, Ontario. I have to remind myself that they just lit the woodstove for the first time the end of October. So...if I were to get in the van and head up to see them I might be up to my neck in snow once I got north of Toronto. So...I comfort myself by cruising the Christmas candy aisle at WalMart...checking out the items that I might be sending up in a parcel. Just in case, you know. I busy myself figuring just how long it would take Canada Post to get the parcel up to the little ones in the Great White North.

Sign me, trying this Snowbird thing on for size in Florida, M

P.S. This little guy keeps following me around...hmmm.

Zucchini or Courgettes, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 16:42:00 +0000

Being from Cabot Street in St. John's I never had a vegetable garden or much of a back garden. Today, I live in a dairy community with plenty of room to plant a few tomato plants and more if I want. My grandmother would be in her glee, she was a farm girl from Torbay. I can still smell her delicious homemade bread. That is a wonderful memory...

This past week I visited with a friend of mine, A.*, who has a marvelous garden. She and her husband spent a lot of time mulching between the rows, and watering...everything looks great. In previous years they have been my tomato (tomatoe) connection. We had a great chat and made plans to pick blueberries in a couple of days. The weather was just a little too hot.

Just as I was going to reach for my purse...I heard those words, "Would you like a zucchini to take home with you?" I had a flashback to my friend, L., who lives up by Lake Ontario. She had the best looking zucchini and you could not get out of the house without taking one with you. She did include a wonderful recipe for Chocolate Zucchini Cake that was very delicious.

(Which, by the way, was very moist and fudgy and well worth the effort of shredding and heating up the kitchen in the midst of summer.) But chances were I would spend the next day trying to re-home that lovely thing...with very little success. Once the zucchinis are ripe everyone is trying to give them away.

Now, that might not seem like a problem to those of you who live in a city. They are just another cucumber-looking green thing in the produce section. My dears, a zucchini is a member of the squash family. One plant can provide way too many for an average family...lol! Never mind putting in more than one plant...all your friends will avoid your house until the harvest has passed.

Now, I never had zucchini squash growing up in Newfoundland so I cannot say that I am a true connoisseur. When I moved to the States in 1975 I had my first run in with squash. (Then there was sauerkraut...another story for another day.) Growing up with carrots, beets, turnip, cabbage, and potatos (potatoes) that were grown on the island limited my exposure to the exotic vegetables and fruits. Now, mind you, I did have lettuce and tomatos (tomatoes), and of course corn on the cob. The tomatos were shipped to us before they were ripe and they were hard as rocks. That made slicing them a breeze. What a nice cold plate we would have on Sunday with our potato salad, cold cuts, cold green peas, and slices of tomato. The corn on the cob came four ears to a can and they were some good! For the nonbelievers...here is proof:

When I moved to the States there was some question as to whether I had any kind of upbringing (home training) because of my reaction to some things up away...such as they are. I found that the lovely, fresh from the garden, tomatos were mushy. Yes, bye, I found them mushy. Heathen that I was...my ex-mother-in-law, E., God rest her soul, she was ready to ship me back from whence I came. But, Thank God, my saving grace was the way I lit up the first time I had fresh, from the garden, corn on the cob. They saw this as my redemption...or she would have had me on the next plane back.

So, where was I, anyway these zucchini squash are called courgettes in England. I have an English friend, F., here who loves to teach everyone things. This thing about the courgettes was a bit of a surprise though so I must give her credit. I am not an easy student though as I was raised in Eastern Canada where British things are to be found in our grocery stores. She was some ticked off when I knew that Earl Grey tea was good stuff...when my daughter-in-law, An'joe, gave me four boxes of Twinings' teas, she thought I must have come into some money.

"That tea is expensive", she said, and when I brought her back digestive biscuits she would not even share them with me and the girls. Bugger off, she said! (I knew she was pleased with the gift...lol!)

She knew she might not get another package of these goodies for a while. I love the milk chocolate with the cookie. But did you know, I found a similar biscuit here in the States:

And if you don't believe me that they are as good...have a closer look:

The only thing that does make a difference is that that chocolate is dark...but with a cold glass of milk...you are all set. Anyway, I have to pick up a pack of these for my English friend. You know what though, they have something like this in Australia. They are called Tim-Tams

I kind of think they remind me of the graham sandwich bars we used to get at home. What do you think?

Now...back to the zucchini, my dear friend A. was looking at me with hopeful eyes. I set my feet firmly on the floor and reached for my purse. "No," I said, "that would mean I would have to cook." I was eyeing the door planning my exit stage left when she mentioned that she had enough to make a nice batch of zucchini relish. "Now," I said, "I would love to have some zucchini relish." That is the best I have ever tasted...and she puts it in her ham salad. Right friggin' excellent...

So I made it out the door with the promise of a lovely jar of sweet zucchini relish in the future. I hove (heaved?) a sigh of relief as I walked away...without the zucchini...that was a close call. Believe me.

Sign me, Living Simply in Small Town America, M

* The names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Thoughts on Extreme Couponing

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:58:00 +0000

You know, I have been watching that "Extreme Couponing" program with An'joe, my daughter-in-law. I know some people who hit the local Rite-Aid with coupons every week when the flyers come out in the local shopper. Now, don't get me wrong, I love living frugally and saving money makes me very happy. I was thinking to myself while I was watching these guys...but is this really saving money? I mean how much toothpaste, fabric softener sheets, and Advil can one family use?

To read more...

Muskoka Musings

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:46:00 +0000

My eldest son, R.T., and his wife, An'joe, bought their first home in Dwight, ON a few weeks ago. They moved up there to Dorset, Ontario with there three children about a year ago from Brampton, ON and rented until they found this place. They like living up there in Muskoka, Ontario, Canada. Where's that you might say...especially if you are an American, now mind you my friends in NY State would not know where it was either. Muskoka is really more of a region than a town or village. This is better defined by referencing the tourism information:

"Muskoka, Ontario, Canada (located) 90 minutes north of Toronto (with) 1600 lakes, granite cliffs, pine trees, luxurious resorts, bed and breakfasts, inns, cottage resorts ..."

Sounds like quite the place to live, right? It is truly beautiful in Muskoka but it is much more than lakes, cliffs, pine trees, and tourism though. My grandsons, Chris and Jayke, ride the school bus to a great school in a little town called Dwight. At times my daughter-in-law has to carry my autistic grandson, Jayke, on the bus kicking and screaming while other days he goes without any problems. They love their classes and teachers. They eat pizza at school every Tuesday. During the winter they ice skate on the rink behind the school. If they don't have skates they can use the ones that the school keeps for just that purpose.

Before they moved my granddaughter, D'princess, and An'joe used to walk up to Dorset to check their mail and visit Robinsons, the local grocery, hardware store, and gift shop. If they don't have it...well you don't need it. I love that place! D'princess has been known to throw tantrums there only to be carried out without the focus of her tirade. (An'joe has the patience of a saint but she does not let her have her way.) D'princess is going to be four in the fall; I personally thank the Lord for Junior Kindergarten...lol! An'joe deserves a break. D'princess is truly a diva in training. In fact, my son has expressed his personal opinion that she will be sent home within three days with a note requesting a shift to homeschooling. We all love her...lol!

We seem to have picked a really good time to visit with the recent heat wave that has the country in its grip. There are lots of things to do, mowing, weed eating, watching the little ones in their inflatable pool, reading stories, picking up after my dog, watching Chris pick up after their BIGGER dogs, taking garbage and recyclables to the dump (no trash trucks here), and grilling out. There are errands to do in Huntsville. We do a little work until it gets too hot then we hang out in the shade drinking lots of water waiting for it to cool off. We are right back at it by mid-afternoon. Yesterday, I pulled up quite a bit of comfrey leaving the raspberries near the lilac trees. Papa loaded up the plants and took them over in the woods where we want the comfrey to come up next year. They have seven acres so the open land needs mowed and trimmed back. The deer flies and mosquitoes are our usual companions although I have been testing the hidden qualities of the Bounce fabric softener sheets. Who knew that Bounce could be such a great insect deterrent??? If I think that all the way through it makes me wonder... Before I forget...when a person is swatting deer flies and mosquitoes as they are being chased by them...the locals call that the Muskoka Wave!

By the time my son gets home we throw it all together to wrap up what is left to do so we can visit for the rest of the evening. The bugs chase us inside some times but we do love the hamburgers that An'joe provides from the wonderful gas grill that she won on the radio.

We retire to the house (downstairs) where we unwind (or is it unravel?) while the grandchildren and their parents do the same (upstairs). We listen as they gradually get ready for bed. Papa and I relax wishing we were younger so we could have the energy to keep up with them...until sleep comes. Lights out for another day.

BTW, the names have all been changed to protect the innocent.

Taking time to smell the Roses

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Wed, 11 May 2011 18:49:00 +0000

Living simply is really important to me. Being blessed with the love of simplicity, I have a life that permits me to stop and smell the roses.

I have been to visit a friend this morning. She took sick several years ago when a tooth that she was ignoring caused a brain infection. She had a stroke during her hospitalization; she is in a wheelchair these days. She is my age. We used to do such hilarious things together. We still laugh together about those antics!

This morning I popped over to give her a shirt that I picked up while I was shopping on Anna Maria Island.

One of the shops of AMI

She was still looking good. Funny how things don't slow some people down. We were chuckling about silly things...like convincing my DH to upgrade our cable. We both knew that by Friday of this week he will come around. Digital cable is the best for that flat-screen television. But he likes to be stubborn...we both know that he loves watching his drag racing. It is in the bag...lol

When I look at my friend I don't see the changes in her face that accompanied the stroke. I see the sparkle in her eyes; she loves to hear about things outside the walls of the nursing home. She does not carry on and question how this could have happened to her. She is making lemonade with the lemons that were given to her in this life. That spirit outshines the physical changes; she is a woman of courage.

We rolled on up the hall to the computer that the home has in place for the residents to use. She did it herself using her legs to propel her with gusto. Together we sat there perusing the photos of the mobile home that we just bought in Florida. She liked the pictures and we chatted about what we could do with that family room. That was a nice washer and dryer...you know. Just girlfriends catching up. Smelling the roses, like you would.

I showed her the beautiful sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island. What a gift! To have a place that is 10 mins from the beaches. That sugar-white sand is so striking against that beautiful blue ocean...it looks like a little bit of paradise.

Aerial View of AMI

We both thought that being 1.5 hours from Disney World was a good thing! I hope that we can see it together sometime. I told her that all the grandkids are lining up already...they want to go to DW! I told them to start saving their money, I said. She cracked up. We both know that I won't be content until every one of them has made the trip. My own sons had been there three times when their Dad was in the US Navy. It is time for the little ones to see Mickey Mouse...lol! She knew that her little ones were going to be lining up as well. Isn't it funny how you don't have to say some things? You just know.

After we checked out the map of Florida so I could give her an idea of how close we will be to the beach we signed off. We meandered back to her room. I wondered if she was happy being there. Her kids come to see her throughout the week. The photos of them and the grandkids are all in place where she can see them. Although she says that she does not like it there she acknowledges that she is comfortable. I know she is being strong.

As I hugged her before I headed home I was glad that we had this visit. The laughter brought back such memories. I do hope that she will get to come down to Florida this year. We would have such fun...laughing in the shade of some palm tree on a sugar-white beach. We will have to dip our toes in the Gulf of Mexico. That is what one does...

May God keep her safe and well.

We go back a long ways.

Oregon couple downsizes, lives ultrasimple life - USATODAY.com

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 02:15:00 +0000

Oregon couple downsizes, lives ultrasimple life - USATODAY.com

Reflections on a Chain Saw and a puck...

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:29:00 +0000

The other fella' thinks I have been watching Bob Villa again because I have been working on the little house for the past few weeks. We have opened up the one wall that divided the little front room and the (even smaller than that) bedroom. The front room is one big room now with knotty pine lumber being delivered this week so we can finish all the walls to match. There needs to be a new support beam to make sure that the roof does not come down around our ears...lol!

Now, you know the other fella' does not like me to give him too much to do. He says he is retired so that means he is RETIRED. BUT when I try to call the carpenter who can do the work for me while he is enjoying his retirement...he gets that "I am counting the money that you are spending" look in his eyes. So...he says we can do it ourselves. Two points for me... So once the weight-bearing wall beam supports are in place we are going to put the knotty pine up so the room will look right like a cabin.

Now here in small town America you need a permit to do anything...so it really bugs the other fella' to have to head down to the building codes guys and pay them $35 to give us permission to fix our house up...especially inside. But that's a whole 'nother column...ha! So for now, we are working on this project...one thing at a time.

Anyhow, I took a week off and headed up here to visit the grandkids. I fell in love with the Lake of Bays area! There are such lovely trees, beautiful lakes, my son, daughter-in-law, and three awesome grandkids! What a tough time for me being up here where it is so beautiful...tough time? How so, you might say. Well, when we were walking through the woods all together today my mind was tallying up the number of downed trees on the property. My mind was thinking that the other fella' wanted a chain saw ages ago (of course, I talked him out of it...) and my son could use one to turn those downed trees into firewood for his family. Hmmm...I was thinking it was a good time for the other fella' to get that new chain saw. Wonder if he is still mad at me for saying no? So...I called home and left a message with the closing comment being that he was soooooo getting a chain saw.

Now, the other fella' forgets nothing...NOTHING...so when I called him I knew he was going to get a word in on that missed opportunity about 8 years ago. The missed opportunity? That is when he wanted to get a chain saw...eight years ago. Do you think he brought it up??? Of course. I was pretending that I had forgotten about it...and told him about all the downed trees, like you would. I said something about a perfect spot for a tree house for us. He seemed to be listening but I knew he had probably been thinking of what he was going to say ever since he got the message.

You know, it is kind of lining up the puck for a goal. So he says, "I couldn't get one for myself so I am sure as hell not getting one for someone else"...(did you see that puck?) Oh, I says, you are SO getting a chain saw...like I did not hear him but I DID see the puck. I told him that we had to come back up here to help the son with the trees...they would have a field day! (That means I gave him the puck and gave him another shot...) He sounded very happy that I wanted him to come up here and get out in the woods with the son and the grandson...but I knew what he was really happy about. He was getting his chain saw...and he knew it! They were going to tear up those trees like father and son...two points for him! And me? I have that "I am counting the money you are spending" look on my face...

Sign me, waiting for the hat trick...the other fella' still has the puck. M

On The Road...Again

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:24:00 +0000

Sorry that I have not written you guys for such a long time. I just finished my studies on the 20th of January. Whew! I had to focus on getting that last loose end tied up. The next semester started on the 17th of January so I was glad to get the work turned in so I could get on the stick.

We had a dance to put off once that was done (the courses) and that went off like a charm. The DJ/Karaoke Kid loved us! Everyone had a good time and left asking when the next one would be. Now that is the way it should be, right? Took some time off from substitute teaching...

The next item on the to-do list was the delivery of the Christmas presents to the little ones in the Great White North. So off I go in the Bravada (we still call it the Jimmy although the Jimmy was sold to the junk yard last spring...) to Ontario. Told the friends that I would be back and off I go. Well, first stop to see the newest little one...Bella. She is adorable but I must admit that Papa would not share her very willingly...lol! After some grumbling (he gets to hold her all the time) I did get to hold her and feed her...she is a little angel. Papa was a little ticked...lol! My daughter, son-in-law, and I a little outside of the circle these days. The circle has gotten so much bigger with all the new partners and such. Sometimes the young people forget who is in the circle...heck, they don't even have baby showers these days. They miss out on all the things we used to do. It used to be so much fun to get together at the Legion and visit with everyone at a baby shower. What can you do?

Once that was done I had the other fella' load up the car with the presents, the dog food, and the dog. Kisses to himself and off I go...up the QEW past Hamilton, on past Oakville, to the 401. Now I don't know what they do at that malfunction junction where the 400 jogs off of the 401! I was crawling along at 10 mph (still don't use clicks...Kms) but I eventually found myself going north on the 400. The roads were dry until I got out a ways.

The traffic was a little better but seeing as it was Friday there were quite a few travelers on there was out of T.O. (Toronto for those who are not bilingual.) What a relief to finally be one of just 20 or so cars heading north. Stopped at the Husky to get some CD ginger ale...found some chips & gravy flavored chips, a kit kat, and used my US money to settle up. Now to use the CDN funds...they are so much prettier...lol!

Around dusk I saw my first moose crossing sign...now they have deer and moose up here in Muskoka! Where I live in NY state we have DEER lots of them and in Newfoundland the speed bump there is the MOOSE. That is a serious problem...but up here you have to be on your toes! They have BOTH...sacred heart of you-know-who...the roads got a little interesting so I had been watching my bobber. Anyway between the jiggs and reels I found my way to the eldest son's house...he gives better directions than the GPS.

The grandson helped me to unload my things, their gifts, and I had the dog. He is a bit anti-social, the dog not the grandson...sorry. Before too long all the hugging was done and the Christmas suckers were unwrapped, the Pez dispensers were loaded, the toys were being unwrapped while Nana (myself) was enjoying a bowl of pasta (goulash) with the two granddogs trying to get their hugs in! My dog was in the g'rage...attached to the house. He is not used to other dogs hugging me...he gets a little up strapless...like you would.

The kids wanted me to watch Megamind on their huge friggin' TV...do you remember the black and white TVs we used to watch. Well, I felt like I was sitting at the Paramount on Harvey Road...what a treat! Sitting there with two of the three little ones with a granddog at my feet. Had the son's extra laptop open on the coffee table with Facebook open...the eldest granddaughter was chatting with me on there. I asked her to call me after the movie...lots of love and signed off.

When I finally tumbled into the youngest's bed surrounded by Dora the Explorer I was pretty sure that I was not dreaming...lol! I heard a tap at the door and my son said it was the eldest calling to chat with me. She was laughing about just ordering a pizza online...it was so cool, she said. I found myself remembering how many times we ordered pepperoni pizza and coke (the drink) from the Tower of Pizza on Duckworth Street when I was pregnant with her father. Never mind ordering online...lol!

When all was said and done, I fell asleep very happy to have crossed another thing off of my to-do list. Oh, did I mention that I left my laptop and to-do list home. I will be closing this one and putting it away...so I can enjoy the little ones for a few days. Everything can wait. It will be waiting for me when I get home...talk 2 u soon. Sign me, enjoying life in the circle of family. Nana M

Four days and a wake up

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 22:04:00 +0000

Yes, Christmas is upon us. Wow. There are just a few days between us and the holiday. I am reading a book called "Simplify your Christmas". I love it! I had to pass on Christmas this year. My kids are grown with kids of their own so they don't rely on my input (gifts) at this time in their lives. They were glad that I was able to pay off my little house. I did it all myself and I was not really left with too much money in the sock under the bed after that last payment. But there is an upside to everything...I get to shop the after Christmas sales! My DH and I did that one year and we got some of the best stuff! Everything was on clearance so there were lots of bargains...lol!

I love to send packages to the little ones and I sent several in November/December. They love to wait for the postman...that is what they call them in Ontario, Canada. They get to open the parcel and see who gets what from Nan. I love shopping for goodies and things for them...I must admit that I get quite a kick out of picking up little pajamas and cute things for the little granddaughters. Sometimes they are a little too big like the ones I sent in the Spring...lol! The grandsons get boy stuff, of course. Daniel loves bright colorful toys. Benjamin loved the pens and notebooks that I sent last month with six pairs of jeans. It is so nice to see that they like the things I send, it is a connection with them.

They live about six hours from me here in western New York. They have a rental house on 9 acres out in the country. Angel loves the animals that come in and out of her yard; they have seen raccoons, coyotes, and she just noticed that the deer are visiting. They are so excited to have them. She is happily looking for deer food to share with them. (I did not tell her about the woman here near Buffalo who got fined for feeding the wild deer...four times.) I am glad that they have moved out of the city. The rest is not mine to worry about...they are enjoying it so much.

I am a little sad not to be able to visit with them this Christmas. I had hoped to go but I will get a chance in the New Year. I miss them all. This year I have to be patient. Christmas will be a little different. My own mother-in-law is in the hospital with a broken shoulder. They operated and she is moving to a rehab today. DH is helping to take care of her so his sister can go back to work. I will be here in small town America working on six more chapters of Chemistry and one more paper. When that is complete, I will have finished the requirements for my Bachelor of Science degree...I am a little in awe of that as well. No, not the grandiosity, but the sense of going over that last hurdle of an obstacle course has been gratifying.

So, while I am missing all the little-little ones and all the big-little ones, I will be working on the coursework to keep my self busy. I have given myself two days to regroup before moving ahead. I will go to my church and have dinner with good friends. I will enjoy the holiday. Please God my mother-in-law will remain in good health. DH will be with her. All is well. God is good.

Sign me, Regrouping in small town America, M

By the Way...Merry Christmas, here's your Christmas card..

Merry Christmas, here's your Christmas card...

Working at home

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 16:05:00 +0000

I am trying to sort through my options even as I type. I want to work from home...but I am sure there are tons of people who want to do just that. I like being able to work right here and getting up to take a break and do my dishes or rake leaves to clear my head. I work hard so I am sure there is something out there for me.

I am going to spend time researching legitimate work at home jobs. Let's see what I come up with. This is a challenge.

Sign me, digging for information in Small Town America, M

December 1, 2010....

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:25:00 +0000

I seriously get stymied when I look at the calendar. The days are just rolling by. I made myself sit down and post today though...before I look up again and find that it is the first of January...lol!

This has been a good week for me. I just mailed in the last payment on my mortgage. I cannot believe it but it really has happened. I will not have to put out any more mortgage payments. Yes!!!!!!! I do believe that it was pure stubbornness that kept me going through out the past four years. I love this little cottage and it has become my wonderful place of comfort. It was such a blessing to find the little yellow house when I did.

You know I did pull out the photos of the untouched beauty of the little yellow house this week. I am somewhat surprised at just how awful it really did look. I have to smile because I saw much more than the debris, the haphazard interior, and the run-down exterior. The pictures are proof that it has come a long way. The work that went into it has made it all worthwhile. It is cozy and warm inside today while outside the snow was blowing. What can I say? I am grateful for the experience because it provided me with a challenge. I needed something to focus on to keep myself moving forward. With every 2 x 4, every roll of insulation, every nail, I felt it all coming together in the inch-by-inch way that does not fail.

So this is a gratitude posting...no doubt. Thank God for the end of the mortgage payments! The future is wide open. Sign me, Already searching for another project...hmmmmm, right here in small town America, M

P.S. Before I forget, I started substitute teaching last month, and I will finish my Bachelor of Science degree in 22 more days. So there is lots to be grateful for...but I don't want to say too much. It makes it too real.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 22:58:00 +0000

I am sitting here wondering just how it got to be Thanksgiving....already. People are getting geared up to hit the Black Friday sales and I just dug out my Christmas tree. I am not ready for this though..the television has given me something else to ponder. There is a winter storm watch for my area. Rats! It is going to be winter tomorrow morning when I wake up.

I am going to enjoy a nice turkey dinner tomorrow, with or without the snow. I will be eating with friends in Geneseo at a big gathering. We all bring dishes and share a huge dinner. It is the best way to spend the holidays. I have been going there for three years now. No sense to be home eating turkey all alone, really. It is good to get out and visit with friends. A lot of people live alone these days. It is nice to see that they come together with such gusto!

I will post more later...but for now...I hope that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving tomorrow! May the next year be a good one for all of us! Sign me, living simply in small town America, M

Life is Like That...

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:52:00 +0000

I am sitting here wondering if anyone ever reads this. Lol! I love reading other people's blogs though so I guess I have to accept that someone does stop in from time to time.

Today the sun came out and I worked in the garden again. Mowing and weed eating (weed wacking in the UK?) just trying to tidy up outside. The cooler weather has started the leaves turning...awww. Fall is coming. You know someone asked me about the little house this weekend. I was able to share with them the process, such as it was. Whew! It has been a good road. Sometimes taking those bucket showers was the best thing! Then when my friend from Australia wrote back that she was saving her shower water to water her plants...well that just made such a connection. I know that I am not rich or famous but goodness...I am content. (Little things like an A&W teen burger with that delicious root beer really hits the spot...lol)

Simple living has brought so much joy to my life. Now, don't get me wrong. I am not having an epiphany, mind you - BUT I just love living like I do. The friends that I have made since I moved her to small town America have been good, solid, long-term friends. We share so much together. We take turns cooking, we go out to eat sometimes, we talk two each other, we listen to each other, we laugh together, and we cry together. Two of the ladies are widows and one is by herself...the fellowship is the saving grace for sure. People love to see us roll in...

DH has come back into my life. I was so glad that he found his way back. God is good. We are going to a dinner and dance this Saturday. There will be about 10 of us so we are going to be there in force. The dinner and dance is to support a little church near here. Heck, last Sunday a week ago four of us women went down to this little town, no we went way over and way down, to a ham dinner at the Legion. When we told them where we came from they were very surprised. We were surprised when we heard that John of John and Sarah's in our town had cooked the ham! We contributed to the fund...that's what we do here in the country.

Before I forget, where ever you are today I hope that you are living well. I hope that you are enjoying the sunshine and good health. Thanks for stopping by. Sign me, living the simple life, M

What the...

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 02:31:00 +0000

My vet is baffled...he has no explanation for Shadow's condition. He just shook his head and assured me that he could not explain it but my dog is much BETTER. What the...his left back leg is still a little slow with reflex checks and his right eye is not quite responding as it should (blink reflex) but he is out of danger.

In fact, he was galloping through the house yesterday to get his toy and take it outside. This dog that could hardly walk without falling down was galloping...yes the same dog that was close to being put down.

I have no answers either. But wait...I don't really want to question this, you know. If Shadow is on his feet today I am grateful to God. Tomorrow will take care of itself when it gets here.

Sign me, Grateful with no expectations, M

Just Chilling...

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:54:00 +0000

Shadow - The Schipperke

I have a small black dog that came into my life in January of last year. He is a rescue dog; his original owner was going to put him down but Sharon (PA) and I (NY) got together to bring Shadow and his son, Ghost, to my place. They were feisty but well-cared for critters. I walked them and worried about handling the both of them. They were quite a team when they got barking and being protective. I had to walk them separately but I enjoyed working with them.

Sharon found a home for Ghost within three weeks of their arrival. She did not recognize him when we met her for transport; he was so cooperative and social she did a double take. Today, he lives in a lovely home near Philadelphia, PA. Shadow captured my heart so I kept him permanently. We shared daily walks and he brought a lot of joy to my life.

About a month later Shadow had his first seizures, three back-to-back episodes that warranted a trip to the vet ER. Dr. S. discussed things with me and cautioned me that late onset seizures were regarded as indicative of brain tumors. There had been no history of seizures so we both took note and I knew only time would tell. Life went on as usual with a sprinkling of seizures occurring over the next year. The vet prescribed phenobarbital and the seizures stopped.

This week I returned home to see Shadow now was having difficulties walking. His hind legs were just not working like they used to. He was so loving but I knew we would have to go see Dr. S. again. The suspected brain tumor had become a reality. Shadow was not doing so well. The vet, Dr. M, wanted to wait three or four days to see if Shadow would come around but we both knew this was the beginning of the end.

The last two days have been difficult but Shadow tries to follow me around the house. His back legs don't always work for him. I hold him until he wants to get down. He gets his treats. I know he is happy and he is not in pain. I want him to be comfortable.

Today, he wanted to go for a walk. I was so afraid that his legs would give out again but he was so happy to be on the old route again. He was running along before we had gone too far! Yes, I was crying as I followed along behind him. He stopped to christen his usual spots but he could not lift his leg this time. It was so good to see him enjoying his walk again. We wound our way through one-half of our usual walking route...he was slowing down but he kept right on. We made it to our yard and he was pretty tired when he climbed up the step to the deck. He flopped down when he got inside. I cried as I undid his leash and harness. He got a drink of water and went right to sleep. I petted him and he looked up at me.

Today, I talked with the vet. We are going to wait one day more to see if he improves. He will make the decision as to whether we need to put him to sleep. You know the walk today gave me some hope; Shadow was a little like his old self. He has been asleep ever since. I have gone over and petted him just to see if he is still with me. I know that in my heart I wish this was not happening...but I am taking care of him while I wait.

Sign me, watching over my schipperke as he approaches the rainbow bridge, M

The Rainbow Bridge

Living Simply...Using My Resources

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:59:00 +0000

You know living simply is not just a cool thing to say. It is how I operate. Yesterday one of my friends remarked that it was really hot in my bathroom. I have just brought out my dehumidifier and it does tend to make the bathroom warm. It is a small bathroom. I promised her that the next time she came to visit I would have a screen on the window. Now, please don't think that she was getting on my nerves...lol! It has always bothered me that this wonderful window does NOT have a screen.In fact, I had tried last year to rig a screen but it did not work very well. I had used the soft black screening that is used in window screens and doors and duct tape. It worked very well until Miss Kitty Like Gunsmoke tried to enter the house through said window. She about knocked herself out and the screen peeled off the window...even duct tape has its limits.

Today, I went into the shed looking for the same black screen material. I had just a little bit left but I kept looking. Sure enough, I found a nice new roll of aluminum screening. My mind was already working out the dimensions and putting the project together. I borrowed Linda's stapler and her drill. I gathered up some wooden strips that I had checked out that would work quite well.

I stretched out a sufficient length of screening to cover the full height of the window. From the top down I stapled the screening to the wooden frame being careful to leave equal room on both sides. Working my way down I gauged just how long the screening material would need to be to give full coverage. I trimmed the screen and stapled the material to the wooden frame. Returning to the left side of the window I shaped the aluminum to fit the inside framing and stapled the material securely. Moving further down I repeated this making sure that I did not pull the aluminum material too much to the right. This would not leave adequate coverage for the left side of the window. Working down the right side I had to trim the material to allow for the window latches. I stapled the edges securely. Once the window screen was tacked in position with a staggered line of staples I drilled small holes into the wooden strips to permit me to use screws. [Now mind you, the strips are not the full length of the window; I will be on the look out for lengths when I go to the lumber yard next trip.] Using short drywall screws left over from another project I was able to use the strips to further secure the new screen. This is just in case Miss Kitty tries to come in through the bathroom window...

The result speaks for itself. It worked very well. The aluminum maintained shape and was easy to mold into the set in wooden frame that encases the vinyl clad roll out window. I have moved the dehumidifier out and stored it away. The bathroom is cooler and the breeze is just wonderful!

The whole idea of living simply is to use what I have to make things work. I did not want to special order a screen to fit this wonderful window. That would be a waste; I was able to use my noggin and sort this out by myself. I like when I can do things like this without putting out more money.

Sign me, living simply and loving it in small town America, M

On the Rez...

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:31:00 +0000

It is Friday the 9^th of July. We are sitting under the canopy waiting for the rain to stop. We left home yesterday for a two-day road trip. It is fun to get away from the cabin sometimes. We have come to the 165^th Tuscarora Nation Picnic and Field Days on the Tuscarora Reservation in Lewiston, NY. We are return visitors to the family gathering. Each year we visit with our friends here on the reservation for several days. Today they will be setting up for the festivities.

Last night:

We settled down with the dogs hoping that sleep would come quickly. Usually, I say the serenity prayer over and over until I nod off but an hour later I had to give up the mantra. I slipped out of the truck and sat in my foldable chair wishing I could unwind enough to rest…lol! Within seconds the mosquitoes found me the target of the moment…putting a halt to my restful hopes. I moved about swatting at them with renewed vigor. I became a moving target as I walked around the grove. I returned to the tent after two laps around the grove, one trip to the facilities, and a tour of the soon-to-be dining tent none the better for the walkabout.

Resigning myself to my fate I reached for the most popular chemical-free bath oil and slathered it on. I have always hated using this stuff because it leaves me feeling like I have been dipped in olive oil. It would be a long night if I continued to be inundated by the flying demons of the grove…lol! Being a trooper I did a double check to get in my ears, behind my ears, and between my fingers and toes. It felt gross!

So, here I was sitting there wondering how in the world I would ever get to sleep when I eyed the brightly colored horizontal challenge, the hammock. I had seen Linda in it earlier so I had an idea how to get into it…or does one say on it? Well, I lowered myself into the length of heavy-duty fabric brought to us from some faraway shore. No problem. Laying back seemed a little precarious to say the least. I quickly grabbed the sides to keep myself from tumbling out! I lay there on a rather uncomfortable slant being very thankful that no one was there to see my awkward attempt at relaxing. Whew! As part of my quick recovery I now had both feet firmly planted on both sides of the bottom of the thing. Leaning on the secure positioning of both feet I moved my derriere a little more to the left. Still clutching the sides in caution…or was it desperation…I waited to see if the relaxation device would stop shaking. It took a while but things stopped moving and I let out a sigh of relief.

It felt quite comfortable to say the least. It was so peaceful there watching the river reeds swaying in the breeze. No one around and just the sound of some AM radio station playing something called “The Boom-Boom Room”; it was wonderful. I was enjoying the comfort when I tried moving my feet closer together for fear of looking rather risqué. That was a big mistake! I rolled the thing! I found myself laying face down in the dirt but I could not help it…I was laughing out loud. I must have looked a sight! It happened so fast that I had no way to save myself. I picked myself out of the dirt with tears of laughter in my eyes. It made me think of some Saturday morning cartoon or something that Abbott and Costello would have parlayed through. The laugh was good though…

I must admit that I did try to reposition myself within the comforting suspended surface several more times before the mosquitoes got done with me. The chemical-free bath oil seemed to be least effective than I remembered; I had bites on my bites. I took my pride and climbed back into the truck. My dog had taken over my side of the futon mattress but I got myself back into the wish-I-could-get-to-sleep position. Yup, I started saying the serenity prayer being extremely grateful that the flying demons of the grove had not followed me in. God grant me the serenity…

The fireball game was just as thrilling as last year. The score was 5 to 1 for the old men when we meandered back to the tent. We could still hear the crowd going wild but we were waiting for the exodus that would take place as the last goal was acknowledged. I will be checking You Tube to see if the 2010 game is just as popular as the 2009 game was…lol!

Sign me, glad to be home, M

Up the Pond...or maybe it is up the CREEK!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 19:13:00 +0000

I have really wanted a boat for a long time now. Four years, I guess. Being as I live so close to a lake, you know. Well, that is what they call it here. (Pssssst! Don't say that I said but I have heard it called a pond on steroids by one of the city people.) I am sure that my cousins in Point LaHaye would be hard pressed to call it a lake. They would be sure to see as a pond when compared to Holyrood Pond (Hulro Pond). But that is story for another day...

Well, one of the guys in the choir has been to Newfoundland and we have been chatting about his trip. He has a Sea Eagle inflatable boat that he wanted me to look at...seeing as how I am really wanting a boat. That is what we would always wind up talking about...his boat and my desire to have a boat. We got together this Monday to examine the boat. He used the pump that hooks up to his truck and we were in business. It says in the manual that this boat (I think it is safe to call it a dinghy) will hold five people or 1200 pounds. Now, byse, I don't want to be one of the five people who gets aboard this blow up dinghy. So, there is not going to be any fear of that kind of venture coming to pass.

Anyway, by the time it was all said and done, he had the money and I had the boat. Yes, Byse, with the boat all blown up, four oars, two pumps, three blow up seats, three life jackets, and we were ready to go. This thing is eleven feet long so it is a good little dinghy. BTW, one of the seats really looks like a humpty to me.

We decided to wait until Tuesday morning to get our feet wet with this new blow up boat thing. I checked the weather, like you would. Storming in the afternoon so we had better go first thing in the morning. Now just so you know, the "WE" is my summer boarder, Linda, and myself. She lives in my side yard from April to September when she pulls up stakes and heads down to Florida for the winter months. Yup, Linda was an innocent bystander in the whole boat thing. She could have run or said no but she likes a bit of fun.

So...anyway, early Tuesday morning we loaded up this blow up boat, two life jackets, two oars, one seat, and head down to the lake. I had already called our friend, Mamoo, who had given up the go ahead on to launch from her dock. We could have walked down there with the boat but Linda wanted to drive it down there. Sorry, she wanted to put it into the back of her truck, the boat does not drive at this point in time. You can get a motor for it but that is another thing we can hit on later.

We drove down to Mamoo's place and carried the Sea Eagle 9 down to the dock being careful not to snag it on the hedges or that one lilac tree that her neighbor trimmed for her one day when she was not home. (Mind you, without her permission or knowledge...now there is a racket waiting to happen...) The carpenters working on the house next door stopped their work to watch us.

We were under pressure to make this a smooth transition into the lake or they would be laughing at us for sure. We got the SE9 down to the end of the dock and I held it while Linda got in. We made a mental note that the bottom had to be given a little more air when we got the chance later on. She held the boat while I got in without incident, thank God. We put on the life jackets...mine was a little snug. Her's would not close...uh-oh. I found the adjustable strap thingys on the side and pretty soon I could breath. I sat right down in the back of that boat and rested my arms on the sides. Darn it, I realized that I forgot the humpty thing.

We pushed off and the carpenters went back to work after that letdown. Now, Byse, we would make the regatta crowd cry for sure. We just had a bit of trouble getting that rowing thing down. We kept going in circles there for a while. Finally, I watched Linda and whatever side she was rowing on I rowed on the opposite side. It was like floating on a feather bed when we were not rowing. When we were rowing we were laughing too hard to make any headway. The wind was giving up a little push. We gave it a good try though and by the time we got her back to the dock we were hooked. We were BOATERS!!!!! Well, blow up boaters...or something like that.

We reversed the smooth technique that we had used to get the thing into the water. No hitches, no falling into the lake, no punching holes in the blow up boat, and the carpenters were none the worse for wear. They had a quiet day at work.

We got the boat home where we beached it on top of the big Rubbermaid container that it had come out of. The previous owners called that Rubbermaid tub, the "Boat House". So we turned her up on top of the boat house and made our plans for the next boat outing. It would have to be before the weekend because the other boaters, jet skiiers, water skiiers, and fishermen would be back. The quiet lake would be a-buzz with summer people.

So....I sent Mamoo's son a quick e-mail message. I typed it carefully, "...is wondering if we could pick a day that you will be around. If we floated down the lake, could we call u to come and tow us back?? We have to work on the rowing a bit more...we keep going in circles. The dinghy has no rudder...lol!"

Since this is Wednesday, we are on for tomorrow. He got a kick out of the whole thing....he wondered if we would make it to the end of the lake. I laughed at him...we are not going to ROW down to the end of the lake...we are going to let the wind PUSH us down there. I mean, come on...it is supposed to be FUN. Rowing down to the end of this three-mile pond...sorry lake...would be too much like WORK. We are bringing two books, two life jackets, two seats, two oars, one camera, and one cell phone. Sign me,

Living Simply in Small Town America, Not too far from the bay after all, M

P.S. That thing in the back is supposed to be a seat but I'm telling you it looks like a humpty to me...lol! (for the non-Newfoundlanders out there...that is a footstool.)

Update to Online Experience

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:55:00 +0000

OMG! LOL! I cannot post the responses that I received to the latest version of the ad that I posted on Craigslist. The whole thing began to feel something like a screening of line of applicants applying for their dream job. By the time I made it to the seventh message this morning and I was speechless. These people are downright competitive and this whole online dating process is very serious business.

I sent a brief one-word response to the one prospect I will refer to as "Mr. You Don't Have to Look Any Further" or maybe I should call him, "Mr. Why Would You Look Any Further, Fool". Nope, it was not a four-letter word. It was "Wow", no exclamation point. I could not believe that anyone would send such an explicit resume. He was banking on my being swept off my feet by his education, and experience...well, maybe his objective was the thing that captured my attention. I had been given a glimpse of life that one can only dream of...after eating something way too spicy before going to bed. Just thinking about it makes me wonder where the Maalox is...

Yup, I pulled the ad. "Mr. Why Would You Look Any Further, Fool" took my breath away. I am not interested in that much excitement BUT thank you for that visual. I only wish my hair was long enough to let the wind blow through it. Wait, riding that Harley without a helmet would be crazy...

Should I tell him that I am someone's grandmother??? I bet you he thinks he is writing to someone who is here for the party...what was her name again? Gretchen something or other...I do love her song!

Anyway, I have to get back to the books. Graduate school is calling me. This would make a really impressive psychology paper...no, wait. I have to be careful. The whole anonymity factor needs to be embraced. Heck! I could be a serial killer...or worse. Thanks for tuning in, wait till I tell the Ya-Yas...

Sign me, Date-less and Living Simply in Small Town America, Nana M

An Online Experience in Small Town America

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:03:00 +0000

In April, I thought I should think about this online dating thing that everyone seems to be talking about. It had been quite a while but you know we just hope for an easier, softer way through these things. I took a deep breath and posted an ad on Craigslist in the "Women seeking men" section. It read:

MISS BEING CARED ABOUT - 55 - (LOCATION)
"I miss doing things with someone who is interested in life. Miss being active and vital. Relationships? Don't know how many years it has been for you but it has been five years for me. Been too busy...just miss being cared about. Sign me, Living Simply in Small Town America"

Well, I knew I was taking a chance...I mean we all have heard of the Craigslist murders, right? The anonymity of it all was just the best thing in my mind. You know, I felt safe just sitting here waiting for a response. I figured I would get one, no problem. Boy...the responses came in like snow flurries. I chatted with some of them online via Yahoo Messenger. One of the suitors helped me to get hooked up with the Yahoo Messenger chat thing. It is pretty handy, right.

The one who helped me with the chat thing was a very nice coon hunter who just chatted and kept his distance. (Whew!I did not realize that I was so nervous about meeting new people...) No one particular person stood out in my mind as being anything but nice to chat with. I was invited to meet for coffee in a public places this was a relief...I mean I could have been a serial killer, right...or worse. I mean, that photo of me from last year with my contacts on and my eyes done up could have been a hundred years old. When asked for my weight, etc...I just said that I was short, fat, and sassy. Kind of like Roseanne...Frig! I hope she does not read this. (I am really not as busty as herself...lol! My sister got the boobs...)

I did get a little surprise when one of the responsees sent me a message with my Yahoo screen name. I actually have two...Mistress of the Moonlight and Firelight Woman. Now, it just means that I like to sit under the stars by the fire in the evening. People always think it is something about making love by the fire. Not hardly...with the mosquitos we have here in Small Town America. It would be like donating at the Red Cross without the sandwiches. Anyway, he thought that my screen name was cute. I gently asked him how he found my screen name. He just informed me that he searched Living simply in small town America on Yahoo. My cover was blown...you know I love a man that googles. He was quite nice actually. I put a star next to his name. Might be a keeper...certainly had a sense of humor.

I mean I was right happy. I was not leaving the house and responsees offered me their phone numbers...hmmmm.

After sorting through quite a few e-mail messages, exchanging photos, and chatting with some very attentive individuals, I felt like I was getting the hang of this. I stepped a little further into the water and called one of the numbers. Mind you, I selected the one who lived about 14 miles from me in a pretty affluent college town. One must consider these things when dealing with the unknown factor.

Well, Mr. Right there in Affluence, NY was pretty used to the whole routine. Question # 1..."Do you live alone?" Okaaayyyyyyyyy then. When I assured him that my oldest son lived with me (39) he maintained his composure. [Now my carpenter is 39 and he is like a son to me...I was only fibbing a little bit.] I heard Mr. Right There cross me off his list of weekend activities, honest. Before too long he was giving me tips on the whole online dating game...he cautioned me about the free dating sites. He had been surprised by some of the people he had agreed to meet in public places...I could tell. I checked him off my list of hopeful contacts and moved along to the next prospect.

Now you must remember that I am pretty hesitant to meet people because I am not wanting anyone else to take over my life. So...I was second guessing my motives...I noticed that I was eliminating people very carefully but I was not meeting anyone.

After a few weeks of lengthy interchanges, I did agree to meet for ice cream with a very nice man who not only chatted me up but carried on a video phone/chat with me. He was very nice but I got an incredible knot in my stomach just sitting there listening to him in person. When he got there I stuck out my hand to greet him but he insisted on hugging me. [I made a mental x mark by his name.] The silly jokes and nervous banter faded and I headed home. I know that when he said he would call me I quickly asked him not to do that...I know I said something about sending me an e-mail. I do hope he realized that it was not him...the knot in my stomach had become a double...you are never going to get this untied kind of thing.)

I went home and removed the ad from Craigslist...and I deactivated my ad on Plenty of Fish. POF is a really kewl site but then that is a story for another day. I was ready to live alone forever, I thought to myself as I chewed my tums hoping that the knot would go away.

Now to move this along...I reposted in early May. Same kind of thing. Lots of attentive responses...one or two stand out in my mind. There is Mr. I got what you need right here...he wrote:

I TOLD YOU I WOULD LOVE AND CARE ABOUT YOU AND TOLD YOU TO CALL ME BUT ALL YOU KEPT DOING IS ASKING ME QUESTIONS OVER AND OVER IF YOU ARE SERIOUS ABOUT BEING LOVED AND CARED ABOUT SEND ME A PIC OF YOU AND HERE IS MY NUMBER CALL ME (telephone # removed) no more questions!!

I was not really sure if he was yelling (my sister types in capitals all the time...she says frig me and my yelling capitals) and I responded with:

Mr. Smith, (name has been changed to protect the innocent), I ask questions to get to know people better. I received about 50 responses to my ad. Thanks for your interest though. M

Triple checks after his name by this time...no way I was going to call the guy. I mean I could be a serial killer, right.

Yup, I removed the ad and recommitted to living a live alone.

Yup, I reposted in June. This time it read:

MISS BEING CARED ABOUT - 55 (GENERAL LOCATION)
I miss doing things with someone who is interested in enjoying the simple life. That includes going to movies, fish fry on Friday, digging in the dirt, sitting around the fire in the evening under the stars, and being with good friends. I just miss being cared about and appreciated. Not into casual encounters. Looking for a down to earth, hardworking, Levi-wearing, pick-up truck-driving, country-lovin' kind of guy. Please no city slickers or players. Does anyone remember old-fashioned courtship? Getting to know someone? Spending time together? Where are you? Sign me, Living Simply in Small Town America

Guess how many responses I got with this one....TONS! Yup, Mr. I got what you need right here, even wrote me back. He wrote:

I wrote back:

This is not a question. You sound obnoxious...lol! M

He wrote back:

if i'm obnoxious then you must be a skank

Now, mind you, years ago I did not know what a skank was but Kassie had explained that to me so I knew what the buzzard was talking about. He was pushing his luck, I mean I could be a serial killer, right?

So I counted to 50 and leaned on what the nuns had taught me years ago back at Presentation on Military Road. I took the high road and I wrote back:

Good morning, may I accept that as your last word? I hope that you find someone very special. Have a wonderful day. Nana M

Well, he did not write back and not to be put off by small obstacles, I revamped my ad. It now reads...

Blue Jeans? Pick up Truck? Country Guy? - 55 (Location)

I miss doing things with someone who is interested in enjoying life. That includes going to movies, going to fish fries, digging in the dirt, sitting around the fire in the evening under the stars, and being with good friends. I just miss being cared about and appreciated. Not into casual encounters. Heck, I am looking for an excuse to cook...lol! Looking for a down to earth, hardworking, Levi-wearing, pick-up truck-driving, country-lovin' kind of guy. Please no city slickers or players; I keep my christmas lights on all year long...lol! Does anyone remember old-fashioned courtship? Getting to know someone? Spending time together? If so...where are you, Dude? Sign me, Living Simply in Small Town America

You know what, when I read that just now I think it sounds like I am looking for a Newfie. Get a look at that...the only thing I left out was the work boots and flannel shirt.

There were ten new responses in my mail box this morning. Whew! Here we go again. Sign me, Not Going to Settle for Mr. Right Now, right here in Small Town America.

Tuesday in the back yard

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:12:00 +0000

Good morning, I am sitting here trying to remember just what I have planted in the last few days. A new friend has a tremendous garden and she has brought me some godesia/godetia, black-eyed susan, sun dots, and a rose of Sharon start. I bought some varigated hosta and some lupine. This past week I finished enlarging my one flower bed and have begun another one...lol!

This is my favorite thing to do. Digging in the dirt...lol! It is my therapy. You know that life is full of twists and turns but I can always bring myself back into balance just by working in my flower beds. Sign me, getting dirty in Small Town America, M

Sunday...sweet Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Sun, 16 May 2010 18:20:00 +0000

It is Sunday again...where does the weekend go? We have a beautiful sunny day here in small town America. There is a little breeze that is making it cooler but the sun is shining. I won't be working in the yard today, the mower needs new wheels.

I met a friend at church this morning. She is a widow. We chatted before the service as people do quietly sharing behind our hands so as not to bother the people sitting in prayerful reflection. It is nice to be with friends. I looked around the church acknowledging in my heart how many of these people I have a connection with. There's the mailman and his wife. There is Mrs. M, she just had a heart stent put in...God love her. There is the B. family; they are moving to another town so all the girls can go to catholic school. Going to miss them (their mother told me that their house is not selling) but I do understand. There are the two sisters I used to sing in the choir with; they sit close to me and we do a mini trio these days. There is Mrs. E. she was a prisoner in a Russian labor camp as a youngster. She is a blessing; she makes the best...what do you call those delicious Polish ravioli like thingys? Excellent! There is that lady who had the gastric bypass; she looks tired these days. The deacon's wife, the deacon, and good old Father R. The music started before I could finish...lol!

The service was very lovely. Three little people made their first Holy Communion. What a nice thing to participate in this morning.

We stayed for the pork dinner that the K of C folks put on. It was fun to visit with a table of friends just supporting the church like us. We got the word that we are needed to work at the bingo next Friday. They are short handed there. They were glad that we were available. We shared so much over pork, dressing, green beans, potatoes, and gravy! Just catching up and realizing that we know so many of the same people. It is like that in a small town. I am not related to anyone here; I am from so far away (Newfoundland) but I am welcomed here. They love to hear about our road trips to Newfoundland, too. I could see it in their eyes...they wished they came from someplace special like me.

You know as a military spouse I never really had that luxury before now. Belonging, I mean. I have unpacked for the last time in my mind. I have this little house in STA. I have made friends; I am becoming involved in the community again. I guess you have to become willing to put down those roots that give you that stability to weather any storm.

We have shared so much over tea and coffee. We gather around the fire in the evenings and visit. We pray for those difficulties that life throws at us to be cast off with the bonds that our friendship have created. We...isn't that a funny thing. You see, even though I am alone, I am a "we" when I talk about my life. It is the warmth of those friendships that chases away the chill of a winter night. It makes up for the lonely Mother's days and Christmas holidays. We shore each other up, the widow, the driver, the student, the aunt, the divorced single father, the spinster, the fellow patient... We take the the time to reach out and cheer each other. It is the meal shared at a simple table, the baking done for several to share, the rhubarb gathered and turned into pies, the jelly from the cellar, the milk from Farmer D...

You see, we all come from a very special place. They don't offer tours here, the website does not advertise special events. We are from small town America. The special events? The fundraiser dinner for the little boy in town who has a recurrent brain tumor, the barbeque that will help someone out, the vet's club breakfast...these are special events. They don't make the news but they make the conversation as the word is passed from friend to friend.

Yes, we live in a very special place that I am so glad to belong to.

Sign me, just loving it here in Small Town America, Nana M

Mothers Day Musings

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Sun, 09 May 2010 20:07:00 +0000

Have you ever wished that your life could be different? Mothers Day brings me to that each year. I wish life could be different. I have such memories of my kids growing up...good ones that shore me up when I miss them terribly. They are busy with their lives these days. They have made choices that exclude me.

I wish that I could have time with the women who made me who I am. I wish I could sit in my grandmother's kitchen with my mother and her mother. I wish we could have a nice cup of tea and chat in the light of understanding and acceptance that comes with loss. How many words were wasted over the years. My grandmother did not like how my mother lived her life. She wore her down with abrasive words that she hoped would mold my mother into something she was not. She would make my mother cry. I remember those tears.

Somewhere under the hurt though my mother held the love grandmother felt for her close to her heart. The time came when the words ceased. One day my grandmother was gone without the opportunity to say even a simple goodbye. My mother stayed and took care of my grandfather when my grandmother passed away. He was unhappy with her though; she could not cook meals like he wanted. He threw food at her; he would make her cry. I remember those tears.

The day came when he was no longer sick; he was free from pain and grief. He went to be with my grandmother. My mother cried; she felt so alone. I remember those tears.

So if I could have things the way I want...there would be a nice cup of tea between the three of us. No, four of us...my little sister, too. There would be no anger, no hurt, no bitterness...no sadness. There would be love and acceptance. Just pleasant banter and casual conversation, stories of Robinson Pond and the harses down in Torbay.

There would be no unsaid words. Instead of arguing, my grandmother would thank my mother for being there for her all those years when she could have moved away and had her own life. She would thank her for taking care of my grandfather even when he was in so much pain that he was downright mean to her. She would hold her and tell her how much she meant to her. She would tell her how proud she was that my mother had cared enough about them to be there to take care of them. She would acknowledge that my mother wore black for one year in her honor. She would thank her for wearing black in my grandfather's honor for one year. My mother had made her proud by following the old ways.

My mother would thank my grandmother for taking care of her and for the home she provided for her...and us girls. She would no longer be alone; she would have a family once again. My mother would share photos of the grandkids and the great-grandkids. The memories would be shared over the cups of tea...and the healing would be wonderful to watch as it brought them closer together.

I don't know if you can relate to the hurt that someone in your life has suffered. I remember the tears but I know that they loved each other. I wish they could have shared that love instead of hurting each other. Life is way too short for that.

Sign me, sorry to see people waste precious time hurting each other, M

Nana's Downeast Bookstore - Amazon.com

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Sun, 02 May 2010 14:43:00 +0000

Good morning, I have been working on an educational bookstore project on Amazon.com. This is not a big business venture with rent, employees, and exorbitant overhead, mind you. It is a wonderful opportunity for me to prove a point. I have chosen this simple project to show that with a little dedication one can make a positive contribution that will have far-reaching effects. One book at a time I am hopeful to create a ripple effect that will provide better reading choices. On an entrepreneurial level, it is possible turn a profit that will grow if the costs are kept to a minimum.

My inventory is comprised of Native American literary works. I also offer children's books that are focused on the Iroquois clan animal totems like the beaver, turtle, and bear. All books are personally reviewed and must meet a certain criteria before they take their places on the shelves. The traditional and old-fashioned values passed on to me by my grandparents and mother have been the foundation for this process. I have carried those words of wisdom within me; those lessons has been the compass for my journey. As a result, books are selected by topic, message, and belief in order to provide positive teachings for my customers.

Sign me, Living Simply in Small Town America, M

Please take a moment to visit Amazon.com and Nana's Downeast Bookstore.

BOLO - Be On The Lookout For...an Ontario license plate

noreply@blogger.com (The Mistress of the Moonlight) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:07:00 +0000

Hey, it is me, Nana. Sorry, I am a little upset today. Well, I think it is not a bad thing though. You see, I am really, really ticked off because a man driving a dark green Honda civic with the Ontario license plate BHZ... (did not get the rest) knocked my 17-year old granddaughter down in Mississauga, Ontario. She was walking across a parking lot. After he hit her, he backed up around her and fled the scene. It is now a hit and run.

A witness picked her up off the ground. She is pretty badly bruised and scratched up but it could have been much, much worse. They made a police report but the idiot is still driving around...let's see if we can find that loser. I will be posting photos as soon as I get them. Keep watching for this guy...I am offering a reward to anyone who finds him.

I posted this information on Facebook; I do hope we find him before someone else gets hurt. Do you know why I am so ticked? The driver did not even stop to see if she was hurt. I mean...come on. How much easier this would have been if he had just stayed with her to make sure that she was safe? That is what I consider a common courtesy. Now, it is so much worse...

Sign me, BOLO Nana who is not putting up with this...M

Hit and Run Loser's
license plate looks like this...