Morphy Mingles through 2016 - Part 2

I'm starting up a clean thread.

We got all the work done. We have a new furnace and refrigerator, new insulation in the attic and walls, new smoke and CO alarms, air leaks have been sealed including a new threshold for one of the doors, weatherization for the doors, programmable thermostat, pipe insulation for the water heater, and about 15 new compact fluorescent lightbulbs. All that's left is the new window AC's but they told us that could take up to six months.

Yesterday: MrMorphy fixed a major kitchen sink/tub blockage. After trying drain cleaner and the snake upstairs, then the plugs downstairs (couldn't get them to come out - stuck), he fixed it by removing the J-trap and using the snake from there. Yay, Mr. Fix-It!

Blessing: A husband who knows plumbing

Agreed. Mine does not. Plumbing is hard.

Welcome back!

>1 Morphidae: We got all the work done.
Phew! That's all a nuisance to arrange and live through.

>2 Bookmarque: He also can do electrical work!

>3 qebo: We weren't complaining. It was all free! And we didn't need to arrange anything other than agree to when they'd come out.

Wow, that's an amazing amount of work. I hope your home is way more comfortable and fun to be in!!! (probably also cheaper to run)

Huzzah!

{turns green}

Wow, Thea's a lot of work!

Wow! WOOT!! I'm so glad that you got all of that stuff done! And I'm impressed with Mr. Morphy and the plumbing!

And Happy New Thread, Sister!

Don't spread that notion that husbands should know plumbing. I am not the handyman type.

Congrats on getting all that work done. I imagine it'll be pure pleasure to get settled in without all the workmen coming in.

How nice to have all that taken care of! And to have a handy husband. I'm the one to deal with minor plumbing issues here, unless they require brute force.

>5 reconditereader: I imagine it will be. I think it will be more noticeable in the winter though.

>6 Bookmarque: While it's been a blessing, I'd rather not be so poor that we qualify for it!

>7 drneutron: It is! It was done quickly though. I was surprised.

>8 scaifea: Woot woot! I had to have at least two threads this year. LOL. Pathetic for me. Though I don't think I had any last year.

>9 Forthwith: No should about it, but it sure it convenient.

>10 ronincats: They were surprisingly fast, courteous, and did quality work. The contractor would call to make an appointment within the week, they would show up on time, were nice as could be, would be done within a few hours at most, cleaned up after themselves, then left.

>11 SylviaC: I could have handled minor plumbing issues until last year and my physical disability became worse. But it's true that it's VERY nice to have my own plumber and electrical (and over all handyman.) I call him my Incredible Mr. Fix-It. He even has his own magnet on the refrigerator that says so.

Happy new one, Morphy! You must be breathing a sigh of relief to have all of that finished. And hooray for men who are handy.

Mr Morphy is off to the dentist for the first time in years. His teeth are falling out of his mouth. Poor guy. Thankfully it's covered by MA.

Maia turned ten years old on September 3rd. She is doing very well and is feisty as ever.

* Work in Journal (catch up) working on
* Finish weight tracker
* Call scrapbook.com about order DONE

Yesterday: Cleaned off my "hot spot" table, paid bills, called the city about the water bill to try to get help (no joy), called WeCan about mobile food shelf, finished The Past Through Tomorrow by Robert A. Heinlein

Blessing: LT friends

Currently Reading:
I Will Fear No Evil by Robert A. Heinlein

>13 Crazymamie: Yes, it's good to have it done. And, so true! Don't know what I'd do without him. We've probably saved thousands of dollars over the years. He's done everything from install a water heater to replace pipe to the shower to rewire and separate fuses (or whatever you call it.)

Woot! Hooray for getting all that work done. I'm sure it will be worth the hassle with increased comfort this winter.

Anatomically interesting cover there.

Congrats on a new thread! and on all the work done. I've happily lived through surgery on my last, and final, foot repair, remodel. Got rid of left foot's bunion. I am now living through, hobbling through, the six weeks of wearing "the boot" - a contraption engineered to keep me off the front part of the foot. All weight is on heel and mid-foot, and left foot is slightly "taller" than the right foot, so I'm a little crooked. Only slightly.....

I have declared that I am doing no more body remodeling but my coop members here at Silver Glen Cooperative tell me "not so fast" and speak of possible remodeling of vital parts such as hearts. Sigh.

But on balance, I am still "over the moon" happy with my new home and the wonderful people with whom I share the cooperative. My only complaint is I can't find enough time to read.

I am happy to see you feeling up to being active on your thread. I look forward to reading about what you are reading, too.

Happy Autumn!

You must be so relieved to get all that done Morphy! I've been meaning to stop by for ages and say thanks for pointing me in the direction of bullet journalling. Oh my goodness, I'm a convert! And so many excuses to buy stationery ... you can NEVER have too much stationery!

Morning, Morphy!

It's lovely to see you back here, Morphy! And to hear all about your home improvements and MrMorphy's plumbing skills. Hope you enjoy your reading, journaling and scrapbooking.

>16 streamsong: I know. And it has absolutely nothing to do with the contents.

>17 maggie1944: I'm sorry to hear about The Boot. I haven't heard one person who was happy with The Boot. It's rather like a pet with The Cone of Shame.

I'm thrilled to hear you are so happy where you are living now. There are worse things than to be so happy busy that you don't have time to read!

>18 klarusu: So what's your journal and pen? I use a Moleskine and a Bic Velocity for my draft/scrap work. Then I have a Leuchtturm (my precious) and Pigma Microns for my dailies/trackers/collections/etc. I also use stickers, washi, Staedtler fine line markers and colored pencils.

>19 scaifea: Yo, sis. What's shaking?

>20 Sakerfalcon: Oh, I don't do scrapbooking. I got stickers from the site for my journal. But thank you!

MrMorphy went to the food shelf today for the week's produce/bakery run. They didn't have anything we could use this week. Then he went to the grocery for a couple of items. We'll be have a chef salad for dinner tonight.

Visited with S. (minister from church.) She comes to see me weekly and has been such a blessing. I broke down and cried during her visit while expressing how much she means to me. With me being homebound, she is the only person I really have any contact with other than Ken. And she is so loving and kind. She has such a light about her. She also agreed to help me with accountability with some goals I have. She's the best.

MrMorphy went to the dentist yesterday. Oh boy. Because MA doesn't cover crowns but does cover dentures, they will be removing all his top teeth. :(

His bottom teeth can be saved (they hope) and so they will be filling them. He has a very low pain tolerance and get pretty cranky even with just a 3 or 4 out of 10 on the pain scale. The next few months shall be... interesting.

Anybody have dentures? What's it like eating something like steak?

* Exercise
* Create TBW list
* Try Gilmore Girls (watch pilot)

Yesterday: Visited with S., Ken went to dentist, finished I Will Fear No Evil by Robert A. Heinlein

Blessing: Visits from S. from WCC

Currently Reading:
Apprentice in Death by J. D. Robb

So sorry to hear about Ken's teeth, and I know how cranky can feel when pain is on board. Give him some sympathy from me. I'm sitting in my big chair with "the foot" up on the footstool, aching a little bit, but The Boot is off for a little break. Greta Garbo is eyeing me as if to say.... why don't we go for our long walks any more????

I need to see if I can recruit some friends to give her a good work out... Me, and The Boot, just aren't enough.

BTW, I bit on Bullet Journaling, and although I'm not doing the long range goal stuff, my daily goals have been good for a bunch of days in a row. I'm using a quad lined Composition book, and my new fountain pens. Love my new fountain pens. So much easier to write with them.

Happy new thread, Morphy! Go you on your journaling. I have been thinking about making myself start up again and trying to get into a regular evening habit, but have not gotten past the thinning stage, I'm afraid...

I might join in with you trying out Gilmore Girls.

I'm also glad that you pointed me toward bullet journaling! I don't know if my interpretation of it is anything close to what's intended, but I enjoy having a book full of to-do lists anyway :D. It's nice not to have to worry about remembering so many things.

I agree with Zoe, and bell7's comments on journaling gives me food for thought. It is nice to not be losing my To Do lists, which I regularly did for years. My bullet journal is just fancied up enough that I don't lose it.

knock on wood

I might just be jinxing it.... cross your fingers I can find it tomorrow morning.

>21 Morphidae: I also have a lovely Leuchtturm dotted ... I'm just moving into my second one. I have a Bic Crystal Grip and a set of Derwent Graphik of different thicknesses. I treated myself last month to some Tombow brush pens, lovely Faber Castell Polychromous pencils and Staedtler Triplus fineliners on payday. I'm disturbed that I may be developing a washi tape habit too ;-)

I love playing around with writing styles & colours and it really is making me more focussed on tasks. I think I'm wasting less time on active procrastination and actually dealing with the life admin & work stuff that should be done rather than the stuff I want to do. Also, I'm working on including all my book stuff in the longer term collections so now I only have one notebook to carry!

Oh no about MrMorphy's teeth! :( But I think it's great to see you around on LT again. :) I'll see you in person next week, of course.

Good to see you again! Yay for work on house, even if it's given rather than done on your own - it sounds like the house will be a lot more comfortable (as well as cheaper) next winter. Sorry to hear about MrMorphy's teeth, but I believe dentures are pretty good these days (I don't have any personal or close experience, though). As in staying in when you need them to, being able to eat most foods (well, maybe avoid taffy and the like), and coming out without causing trouble for cleaning etc.

I've (so far) avoided the bullet of bullet journaling. I do my to-dos mostly electronically - I'm still on Habitica and use that primarily. Not entirely...I should, but stuff keeps leaking out into other places - but still on my phone and/or computer. I'm too good at losing pieces of paper, even ones bound into books.

I've got some very nice pens - Staedtlers, Pigma Microns, and the like. I'm just beginning to work on drawing (well, beginning again), in pencil, and looking forward to making something that's worth inking and keeping. It's a Habitica challenge that getting me started, we'll see if I manage to keep it up, especially after the challenge is done.

Morning, Morphy!
I'm sorry to hear about the Mister's teeth issues, but I bet once he gets the false ones, he'll feel tons better. My mom's had false teeth since she was, I think, 12? So, yeah, totally doable and non-hassle-y.

And, so, did you watch Gilmore Girls...??? I'm on the edge of my seat over here!!
("What's the opposite of ennui?" *SNORK!!*)

>23 maggie1944: How's your foot doing today? Did you find someone to walk Greta? What's wonderful about the Bullet Journal is that you can make it your own and it can be as minimalist or fancy as you want it to be. Mine's pretty fancy. One of these days I'll post some pics. I love the way fountain pens write as well but my tremors make it near impossible for me to write with them - too light a touch is needed.

>24 bell7: Look up Bullet Journaling. It's more of an organizational thing.

>25 _Zoe_: I keep my Master To Do list on an Excel spreadsheet and create my dailies from that. But then there are my collections in my bujo - TBR, TBW, Challenges. But as I said above, making your bujo your own is what makes it so great!

>26 maggie1944: I had to do lists all over my computer - in Evernote, in Excel - and then on my iPad - in various apps. I prefer all in one place *and* I prefer on paper where I can be a little creative as well.

>27 klarusu: Aren't they the best? I'm currently working in a dotted Royal Blue and have a dotted Berry for when I'm done with that one. I think Tombow brushes will be my next big pen purchases. I've been using my Staedtler colored pencils even though I have a tin of 132 Prismacolors. First of all it's much easier to deal with a smaller box, and second, they are Prismacolors! My precious...

Perhaps you'll share some pics of bujo pages?

>28 The_Hibernator: I'm looking forward to it!

>29 jjmcgaffey: I'm glad to hear you are still enjoying Habitica. Anything changed much?

>30 scaifea: No, didn't get a chance to watch Gilmore Girls yet. The USB stick they were on didn't work right. I'll be trying again tomorrow. Meanwhile, I watched Toy Story 2. (I'm watching all Pixar in order.)

>31 Morphidae: I've also found that I really prefer paper, not because I'm at all creative but just because I find it more calming. Turning on the computer can end up being a big distraction for me, and the computer makes me feel more wired up and jittery as well.

>31 Morphidae: ahhhh, yes that's slightly different from what I was picturing. Very cool organizational method though...I've been using a whiteboard at work for a weekly to-do list and will think about incorporating the bullet journal method.

>31 Morphidae: Oh, a Pixar rewatch-in-order! Love it. Which is your favorite?

I am firmly committed to paper. I find when I open up The MacBook Air I fall into the "I must look at all my habitual sites before I do anything else" pot. And then, I'm reading LT stuff, and FB stuff, and emails, and my bank account, and maybe other stuff, and completely forgetting why I opened up the damn thing in the first place, and two hours have gone by. Usually it is OK and I get on with life later but I do often forget what I was supposed to do. So opening up the bullet journal and writing out a list of things to do, today, seems to help poke my concentration.

The foot is better every day. The Book is more tiresome every day. I will be delighted to get the stitches out on Thursday, and then I can revisit my habit of having relaxing tub baths. I think The Boot must be a constant companion for about 4 more weeks to support the bone's healing properly, and avoiding an additional surgery. I've heard more than one disaster story of having the surgery done, and then in the end having to have it re-done due to the bone not healing straight. Boo!

That thought keeps me committed to keeping The Damn Boot on my foot

I'm listening to The Elephant Whisperer on my Kindle and loving it. Check it out, you might like it, too.

Hey Morphy just stopping by to say hello.

Hi Morphy! I'm working on Stiletto! Hopefully my head start will give me time to finish it. :)

>31 Morphidae: Oooo! Let's share some pictures! I'd love to see yours. I must admit to a wee Instagram-bujopic-browsing habit ...

35. I do the same thing. It drives me nuts. My mind goes blank as soon as the computer turns on.

Hi Morphy! My oldest daughter and I watched The Gilmore Girls together from start to finish. LOVED it! Hope you find a way to watch it. How are Mr. Murphy's teeth trials going?

Hi, Morphy! I have seen you flitting about the threads and I thought I would pop in and see how were faring. It has been a blue moon or two.

How are the books treating you? Anything blowing your socks off?

I thought of you when I saw this! 23 beautiful to-do lists from people way more organized than you.

>42 _Zoe_: They are pieces of art. How do they have time to do those lists? I would be stressed trying to fill them out!

*waves hello* Good to see you again, Morphy!

Well, it is great to see you buzzing around here! I have been intrigued by all the chit-chat about Bullet Journals here and elsewhere but I know it's not my style. I love the Filofax way of handling things too, but that doesn't fit in to my current life either.

>32 _Zoe_: If I get on the computer, I'm lost for hours. Just one more look at LT, just one more look at FB, let me refresh email just once more... I can do that all day.

>33 bell7: What I like is the permanency. For instance, if someone I'm talking to gives me a referral, I can write it down. If I want to jot a quick list of movies to watch, I write it down. And it's all in the same place. If I want to organize it someplace else later, that's fine. But I don't have to go looking all over the place for post-its, Evernotes, notes on pads of pads, etc.

>34 scaifea: Probably Monsters, Inc. or Finding Nemo depending on my mood and phase of the moon.

>35 maggie1944: Oh man. I wish I could keep it to two hours once I open my laptop. I've gone a full day just putzing on it. Just two more weeks of The Boot!

>36 GeezLouise: Hey, girl! *waves*

>37 The_Hibernator: Just let me know when you'd like to meet up for it. The 29th is taken. Anything else is good.

>39 cal8769: They call it a time waster. Maybe they should also call it a brain cell killer!

>40 Berly: Nope, the USB simply isn't working so I've ordered it from the library. MrMorphy decided to wait until after the first of the year to have his teeth done. He's having a hard time mentally dealing with it.

>41 msf59: I'm in the middle of reading Unseemly Science by Rod Duncan - the second in his Fall of the Gas-Lit Empire series. I'm having a horrid time pulling myself away to get anything else accomplished. If nothing else, he tells a rollicking good story that keeps you very involved!

>42 _Zoe_: OH YEAH. Those people are my idols. Especially boho berry (I have color coding. Second one down after title picture.) I follow her Facebook group and her blog.

>43 cal8769: Actually, once you get your templates down, it doesn't take much time per day. Maybe 10 - 15 minutes then about 1 hour once a month.

>44 rosylibrarian: Hello! Hello! Nice to see you!

>45 jillmwo: What's nice about Bullet Journal is that you make it your own - there are minimalist ones with just bullets and then there are complex, creative ones where the person goes all out with art, collections, washi, etc. Or is it the bullet system itself that doesn't work?

All's quiet. I'm really struggling to figure out a budget that doesn't drain the last of our negligible savings. No matter how I figure it 2+1 ≠ 4. One emergency and we're screwed. (*knocks on wood*) Christmas is coming up and MrMorphy's parents are usually more than generous, so that will give us some cushion. But this year will be the first we haven't paid any taxes which means no tax refund. *gulp*

I knew it would take a long time for MrMorphy's disability, but this is kind of ridiculous. We got the notice about his hearing. It will take up to TWELVE MONTHS before it occurs. Kind of crazy.

Meanwhile, we've got Tomorrowland and Thor: The Dark World to watch plus disc 2 of Season 4 of Eureka (and Magic Mike XXX for me. Heh.) I have to say, Netflix is an incredible deal. We have the three disc subscription but often enough they send us four.

* Bullet Journal DONE
* Determine October goals DONE
* Order Gilmore Girls from library DONE

Yesterday: Read Expanded Universe by Robert A. Heinlein (just don't do it!), Watched Kiki's Delivery Service (a delight)

Blessing: P. offered to pay half of dinner when we go out with him and R. next month for P. and MrMorphy's birthdays.

Currently Reading:
Unseemly Science by Rod Duncan

Hi Morphy! It's nice to see you around the place more lately. Are you getting fall weather now? Our trees haven't even started changing colour yet.

Yes, Morphy, I'm of your tribe. Can spend most of the day on the computer + the Bullet Journal + a little time spent eating, walking the dog, and maybe watching a little TV. My excuse of course is I need to stay off my feet.

There are other days though when I have to do the Board, and various meetings, and projects. It is kind of a half time job here, but I enjoy a lot of it. No complaining.

I've started reading A God in Ruins and even though it is yet one more book about people in Great Britain on the way to WWII, she does write in a unique and very modern style. I like it, and recommend it if you have not seen it, you might like it, too

Hey Morphy! Well, it would have to be a Sunday rather than a Saturday this time around. Liz and I go to school/work on contrasting Saturdays.

Hope you're doing well. Good to see you around.

>49 SylviaC: A bit of color here and there, mostly the sugar maples, but mostly not yet.

>50 maggie1944: Some days I miss all the volunteer work. Then I think about all the drama and I'm like, "Naaaaaah."

>51 The_Hibernator: A Sunday is no problem. Preferably not the 30th as MrMorphy will need to do laundry that day since I'll (we'll) be busy that Saturday. Though if it's the only one free, we'll work around it.

I'd say all's quiet but to be honest, most days are quiet here. I'm homebound and MrMorphy is a homebody, so we're pretty boring!

MrMorphy just went off to run a bunch of errands - drug store, grocery stores, library (for drop off.) We have two grocery stores that are close and we get different things from each one. The major purchase at one of them is for the laundry detergent we use - generic, fragrance free, dye free. We also tend to get our fresh produce there. It's much higher quality. However, the prices at that store are considerably higher so we do our "regular" shopping at the other grocery store. Their produce is usually pretty awful. What's weird is that they use the same supplier - SuperValu.

* Bullet Journal
* Exercise
* Read 2 ch./10 pgs. in We/Publishing Romance

Yesterday: Finished Unseemly Science by Rod Duncan, spent too much time on LT, FB, & emails

Blessing: Had a bit of a meltdown - due to MrMorphy's help it wasn't near as catastrophic as I thought it was going to be

Currently Reading:
Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris
Why: Comfort re-read, next in series


Also, slowly:
We by Yevgeny Zamyatin - Why: By Published Year Challenge (1924)
Publishing Romance by John Makert Why: Early Reviewer

I'm interested to see what you think of Publishing Romance. I might pick it up.

Lurking. Don't mind me. :)

>54 reconditereader: If what I've read in the introduction comes to pass, I'm going to be a very unhappy camper. It's seems this is NOT actually about romance novels no matter what the summary says but rather series romances like Harlequin, Silhouette, Loveswept, and the like. We'll see how it goes as I get further in.

>55 Kassilem: Lurkers welcome. Just pop your head up now and then to let us know you are here!

>48 Morphidae: I agree with you about Kiki's Delivery Service. It is a lovely movie.

Hm, that's a disappointment, but I might still be interested. Kiki's Delivery Service is a delight. (-:,

Liz works the 30th anyway. It'll probably be in the first two weeks of November, I'm guessing, since Liz, my mom, and I are going to Sense and Sensibility at the Guthrie on the 23rd, and my plan is to be done with Stiletto on the 22nd. Yes, I plan things out that far ahead - One hour every other day.

There are a few of you I can't find threads for. Please let me know if you have one?

>5 reconditereader:
>18 klarusu:
>29 jjmcgaffey:

I moved over to Club Read this year. My thread is here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/208788

MrMorphy picked up books from the library for me.



* Wash hair
* Fill in Xcel app
* Enter May books in book journal

Yesterday: Finished Living Dead in Dallas

Blessing: Being able to request books from the library online

Currently Reading:
Murder with Peacocks by Donna Andrews Done 6/10
Why: October Take it or Leave it Challenge, Green Dragon's 50 Mystery Books to Read Before They Find the Body
Eh. Too many characters, too much dialogue, felt frantic and scattered. Thought it would have been funnier if less had been going on and I could have had time to appreciate the characters. Thought it contrived that Michael couldn't get her alone for five minutes to tell her what he needed to tell her. I kept reading because I felt it could have been much more. Perhaps Andrews gets better as the series continues? I really liked some of the characters especially her parents, Michael, Eric, and the sewing ladies.



Club Dead by Charlaine Harris
Why: Comfort re-read, next in series


Also, slowly:
We by Yevgeny Zamyatin - Why: By Published Year Challenge (1924)
Publishing Romance by John Makert Why: Early Reviewer

I liked Station Eleven so much that after reading it from the library, I went out and bought a brand new print copy to keep. I hope you enjoy it!

I couldn't even make it through Murder with Peacocks, but a lot of people seem to love the series.

Oh, yes...I agree about online library ordering being a blessing. My library usage has increased considerably since that's been available. Especially in our little system, where the books are spread out over twelve libraries, and only the newest, most popular ones have more than a single copy. And I can even order ILL books online.

I don't have a thread, I'm too free-form (or disorganized)

But hey, Imprudence is so much fun! Excellent supporting cast of characters.

>62 Morphidae:, >64 SylviaC: Yeah, online requesting is about the only way I get library books anymore.

Lovely to see you so active on the threads again dear Morphy. I have missed your presence here this year when you haven't felt up to it.

What Paul wrote! X2

Good to see you around the boards again, Morphy, and thanks for visiting my thread. I'm still busy, but I'll just make a quick return visit.

Not quite sure what bullet journaling is, but I feel it calling to me (did someone say 'more stationery'?); I'm good at scribbling down to do lists, but not so good when it comes to crossing out. Even if I've done something I can cross out, when I look at the lists, i find I've only done part of it :0(

And you needn't show off about husbands who know what to do about plumbing and stuff - mine does, too. In fact, I think he's even got the number memorised and not on speed dial. *sigh*

I agree with, Paul, it is nice to seeing you posting around again, Morph.

And I hope you enjoy Station Eleven as much as I did.

>60 Morphidae: I don't have a 75ers thread this year Morph, just a rather under-used Category Challenge thread. Work has been punishing recently (great, rewarding, interesting but punishing!) and we've had some life-hurdles and great excitements this year so I haven't been reading as much as I normally do - just been too shattered! I'm still here lurking though and planning with a vengeance for next year's thread ;-) Once I get off mobile & onto computer, I shall share some journal pics though! Would love to see what yours is like. Hope you & MrMorph are well!

To all, I've been fighting a deep depression the last few days. I'm still in it but I'll try to get a post onto my thread and answer your posts soon. I'm hoping within the next 24 - 48 hours. At least I'm getting to everyone else's threads and posting where I have something to say...

>72 Morphidae: Hugs!

Congratulations to you and Mr. Morphy regarding all the hard work accomplished. I'm tired simply reading about all you did. Now is the time to sit back and enjoy your endeavors.

>42 _Zoe_: Those are intimidating.
>72 Morphidae: Hang in there.

Hugs!

Hugs a plenty from me too, Morphy. Let's have one of those Wacky Wednesdays this coming week that you always did so well. xx

OK, now I'm curious. What happens on Wacky Wednesdays? that you did so well??

sending warm hugs, and good thoughts your way!

Big hugs, sister.

Sending hugs and good wishes to you Morphy.

>78 maggie1944: Morphy used to do a series of funnies on Wednesday which I have to admit rather missing.

I'm glad you're still being really active on LT Morphy. It's a good sign. :) I'm about half-way through Stiletto now. I'm liking it, though I think it would be better if it were a bit shorter.

>72 Morphidae: Hope to see you pulling through this latest down-cycle. One day at a time sometimes even one hour at a time.

It's good to see you posting again, Morphy. I hope the latest spell of despression is short-lived. I want to thank you for introducing me to the Bullet Journal. I have been keeping it up for over two months now which is a record for me. Mine is quite simple most days. I even have a symbol for Status Quo for those days when I do the normal activities. I love looking at other, more creative, journals on Pinterest. I just pretty much use a highlighter for color and things like drawing a fall leaf to celebrate the first day of autumn. It keeps me organized…now if you just had a way to create more time in the day...

>72 Morphidae: I am sorry to read you are struggling with depression, Morphy, big hugs!

Thinking of you, Morphy and sending loads of positive thoughts.

Not much to add, just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you.

Hey Morphy thought I would stop in hope things improve for you.

Stopping by to say hi and sending you the best, Morphy!

No Whacky Wednesday or Funny Friday - any chance of a Silly Saturday?

I do hope you manage at the very least a Wonderful Weekend and a Sublime Sunday. xx

Trust that you will have a lovely weekend, Morphy. xx

Happy Saturday, Morph. I hope you are feeling better.

I am loving my bird-feeder, although I am glad I go to work, otherwise I might be parked in front of it all day with my binoculars. Grins...

HI Morphy!! Just stopping by to say hello! Hope you are doing well these days!

Thinking of you, Morphy. All caught up here - I do not journal, but I loved reading about yours. I reread through the entire Sookie Stackhouse series earlier this year and it was really fun. Sending you hugs.

Sending you some more well wishes!

Hi Morphy!

Hugs Morphy!

*waving* Hi Morohy! I'm sneaking a visit to LT today, though I really should be doing other things - like tidying up the house, sorting out my books etc etc. Maybe I'll make the effort of wading through my piles to get to the bookshelves ....

Too many posts to respond to but I want you to know I really appreciate every one, especially the hugs. I love hugs!

MrMorphy had his CT scan on Monday. Today he will have blood work and then his yearly cancer screening appointment with his oncologist. He says he's not worried about it at all, but I'm anxious. Choroidal melanoma (eye cancer) can metastasize years later into the lungs and liver.

* Update October TIOLI challenge DONE
* Post to my LT thread DONE
* Call WeCan about ******** DONE
* Call **** about interview DONE

Yesterday: Finished Closer to the Chest by Mercedes Lackey 5/10

Lack of any real clues or excitement until the last chapter was both annoying and boring. Can only stand so much of, "But if we could just figure out who it is!" And the cover! First, what is it with the spooky, totally black eyes? And, second, why is Mags wearing a leather tool belt and carrying a hammer? That never happened in the book.

Blessing: Good doctors and medical system (for the most part)

Currently Reading:
All the Little Liars by Charlaine Harris
Why: It's by Charlaine Harris. (New one.)



Also, (very) slowly:
We by Yevgeny Zamyatin - Why: By Published Year Challenge (1924)
Publishing Romance by John Makert Why: Early Reviewer

Fingers and toes and much everything else crossed for you and Mr Morphy with his checks and scans ongoing. Sounds like he would be a good poker player if he has you convinced that he's not worried!
Since you like 'em so much:

HUGS
HUGS
HUGS

More hugs!!!!!! And best wishes to MrMorphy! You can share the hugs with him, too.

>99 Morphidae: Hello! Good to see you.

I read We a few years back and for a small book it really took me a while to get through. I thought I'd like it more than I did so I'll be interested to hear how you find it Morph.

I'm so glad that MrMorphy got the all clear! Woot!

>100 PaulCranswick: 101 See below for the update and thanks for the hugs. Love 'em!

>102 klarusu: I want to check it off some challenge lists but I'm not really caring for it. So it sits next to me on the couch. I really need to force myself to finish it. It's not like it's a huge book.

>103 scaifea: Yep! Yay!

MrMorphy spent his day running errands: post office to send something off, Walgreens to redeem our points for $50!!!! and to get some things, library pick up and drop off, vet (no cost!*), Jubilee (grocery store), and Lunds (other grocery store - has better fruit, also fabu sale on ground beef).

I spent my morning making phone calls including arranging lab work (Lithium) for the same day I have wound care next week. Have I mentioned wound care for my pressure wounds? Calling the psychiatrist to make sure that the order was in for the labs. *Lastly I called WeCan (Westonka Community Action Network.) They have a program to help low income families pay for vet bills and they are going to pay for Maia's meds.

* Catch up on journal
* Send email to WeCan
* Put money on MetroMobility Card

Yesterday: Watched The Shaggy Dog (1959) 2/5 stars

Didn't do anything for me. The humor must be dated because it was well-received at the time. I thought it was stupid (sorry!)

Blessing: WeCan vet help

Currently Reading:
Deja Who by MaryJanice Davidson (pg. 58 of 285)
Why: It's by MaryJaniceDavidson. (New one.) ALSO TIOLI Challenge #3: Read a book you acquired in Aug/Sept/Oct of 2016



Also, (very) slowly:
We by Yevgeny Zamyatin - Why: By Published Year Challenge (1924)
Publishing Romance by John Makert Why: Early Reviewer

So glad that Mr. Morphy's tests came out well!

Hugs to all in the Morphy household! (if you all want them)

Huzzah

Great news about Mr. Morphy. It is nice to catch a break now and then.

And thanks for rooting on the Cubs. It helped.

Hooray for those test results, Morphy! Have fun watching The Shaggy Dog!

>105 Morphidae: all clear
Yay for good news!

Ugh - I accidentally overwrote >105 Morphidae:. I don't suppose there is anyway to fix it?

MrMorphy spent his day running errands: post office to send something off, Walgreens to redeem our points for $50!!!! and to get some things, library pick up and drop off, vet (no cost!*), Jubilee (grocery store), and Lunds (other grocery store - has better fruit, also fabu sale on ground beef).

I spent my morning making phone calls including arranging lab work (Lithium) for the same day I have wound care next week. Have I mentioned wound care for my pressure wounds? Calling the psychiatrist to make sure that the order was in for the labs. *Lastly I called WeCan (Westonka Community Action Network.) They have a program to help low income families pay for vet bills and they are going to pay for Maia's meds.

* Catch up on journal
* Send email to WeCan
* Put money on MetroMobility Card

Yesterday: Watched The Shaggy Dog (1959) 2/5 stars

Didn't do anything for me. The humor must be dated because it was well-received at the time. I thought it was stupid (sorry!)

Blessing: WeCan vet help

Currently Reading:
Deja Who by MaryJanice Davidson (pg. 58 of 285)
Why: It's by MaryJaniceDavidson. (New one.) ALSO TIOLI Challenge #3: Read a book you acquired in Aug/Sept/Oct of 2016



Also, (very) slowly:
We by Yevgeny Zamyatin - Why: By Published Year Challenge (1924)
Publishing Romance by John Makert Why: Early Reviewer

>111 Morphidae: I would try contacting Tim ASAP, because they do keep backups of some sort.

>106 ronincats: >110 qebo: Thanks! He was all calm, cool, and collected about it. I was the one pulling out my hair.

>107 reconditereader: Oh, yes. Gimme, gimme, gimme.

>108 msf59: Now, of course, he has to see the dermatologist and the stress starts all over again. Le sigh! And, of course, I helped the Cubs win. They couldn't have done it without me!

>109 Crazymamie: Thanks! But, meh, on The Shaggy Dog, as you saw.

>112 _Zoe_: Email already sent. But thanks!

>111 Morphidae: Really glad to hear MrMorphy is doing well. Big yay for the help with vet bills. How's Maia doing these days ... other than being much loved ;-)

>104 Morphidae: I also picked up We to knock off some ongoing list reads. Your experience seems much like mine.

Hope everything goes / went well with MrMorphy's yearly screens. I know it must be stressful for you!

>113 Morphidae: More hugs to you and I'm so glad your little Maia can get what she needs. How are you liking Deja Who? I might pick it up.

NO help this time, but for the next--when you notice you have over-written, immediately check the Edit drop down menu and see if you can Undo. Often, if you've not done anything else in between, that is an option and your original typing will reappear.

I'll try not to overwrite this one -

Have a lovely Sunday, Morphy. xx

Waving and HUGS and thanks for the support on my thread.

I'm really far behind, but in post >56 Morphidae: it sounds like you are thinking about doing some writing. You have such a good way of expressing yourself, that I think you should give it a shot. I remember Mr M is also interested in writing.

I've been thinking about joining a writers' group at my library.

Just waving. Good to hear the good news.

Thinking of you and sending big hugs.

Positive thoughts and lots of hugs to you and MrMorphy.

***waving** as I go by and I hope that life is treating you well.

Hi, Morphy! Thanks for stopping by my new (hopefully improved) thread!

Catching up: the bullet-journal method sounds great, if only I could keep track of the actual journal. I start one, and it tends to get buried under piles of junk, or I forget where I put it. My hope is that cleaning out all the junk and starting fresh in a new place will make it easier for me to get and keep good habits.

>111 Morphidae: What did you think of the new MaryJanice Davidson? I used to read her Undead series, but I stopped after the first few because they were just too repetitious and got a bit meh.

I haven't been posting much. This election has really gotten me down and scared.

>114 klarusu: Maia is doing quite well considering her heart troubles. Her last exam had very good results with her murmur dropping from a 4 to a 3 (on a scale of 1 to 6) bringing her from "this dog is sick" to "we need to watch this dog." Most likely due to the medication she's on.

>115 The_Hibernator: You must have missed "the post that Morphy overwrote." Ken's scans and blood tests went well. We're mostly all clear. His kidney test was high but the doctor thinks it was from either a) the contrast from the CAT scan or b) the meds for his gout. In the next week or so, he'll take the blood test again and it should be fine.

>116 reconditereader: >124 Storeetllr: Deja Who was pretty good. A light popcorn read for a lazy afternoon. But that's pretty much all of Davidson's books. Not as much humor/snark as previous books and she also tried to write a little deeper/more serious this time. She did a good job.

>117 ronincats: Thanks for the info. It wouldn't have worked this time though as I had done other things. :(

>118 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul!

>119 streamsong: Anytime.

Oh no. Not in this lifetime. I am NOT a writer. I kept being told I should be a writer. So I'd try to do so and I'd get all stressed out. It's not something I enjoy and it's not for me. Not this little grey duck.

>120 humouress: Thanks. It's a relief. And he won't have to have a CAT scan next year until his blood tests come back funky.

>121 FAMeulstee: >122 SylviaC: Thanks! Big hugs right back at ya!

>123 streamsong: Meh. Election. Meh.

>124 Storeetllr: New place? You moving?

Yep. My sister and I are splitting up after 4 years. I'm considering Northern New Mexico, Southern Oregon, or coastal Washington State but leaning toward NM. A lot depends on what happens in January. It may end up being Canada or Costa Rica.

Hi, Morph! Many of us are still stinging from the election but I guess we have no choice but to move forward. I have also been spending time trying to find answers to what went wrong. I think the DNC has some serious regrouping to do. This should have never happened.

Hope you are finding some solace in your books.

Swinging by to say "hi-ya" and give up a hug or three! Election news was/is very depressing. Interesting to read that monetary contributions to several liberal/progressive/civil rights organizations surged by huge amounts. ACLU etc. There is a movement afoot to organize a Million Women's March either the day of, or day after the inauguration. There will be one in Seattle, of course, and I think I might join in with some other seniors. I've been very remiss in posting, or even visiting/reading, in LT of late. Very busy in new retirement community and loving it. I feel as if I've been dropped into a really nice family. There are some challenges of course, but more good things than worrisome things. Yay!

I also got some minor bad kidney values on one of my recent blood tests. Was sent back to do another blood tests visit two weeks later, and the values went back to normal. Gave me a moment's pause to think about what all the meds are doing to my elimination systems. Drink more water, sez I to myself! And keep on walking. Dog and I do over 2 miles each day and it is good for us both.

I'm glad Mr. Morph's blood values are worthy of re-testing soon. Should be normal! I truly hope so.

You seem to be doing well at taking care of yourself and you can have a couple of extra hugs for that!!

Dropping in to let you know I am thinking of you, Morphy. Hoping that your Thanksgiving week is relaxing and indulgent. Hugs to you, my friend.

Just waving through again.

I've been absent from the threads but am spring cleaning my library/ study, which has been the dumping ground this year so it's taking a while. I've been cataloguing books - which often means that I stop and stare dreamily at my shelves, thinking 'I should carry on with this series' or 'I should reread that book' and so on.

Of course, when it comes to picking a book to actually read, I can't seem to find anything I feel like reading just then.

Wishing you and MrMorphy and Maia a very Happy Thanksgiving. I hope you have a stress-free day.

Happy turkey day Morphy! I'm starting to recover from the election, and Tim and I aren't going to talk about politics right now. I wonder if this recount is really going to happen. It would be quite a fiasco!

Happy Thanksgiving, Morph & Mr. Morph!

I am thankful for your presence in the group Morphy and for the brave example you give us in facing up to life's challenges. All the best always to you and Mr. Morphy.

Hi Morphy! Glad that Mr. M got a good report. Phew! So nice to see you around these parts again. I will try to be less MIA now. : )

>125 Morphidae: election
Yeah, lots of us in that boat. Glimmerings of community action here in response, but nothing specific just yet.

Hope everything is well with you and Mr. Morphy. xx

I'm about to hit a wall.

Found out on Sunday that my step-sister died unexpectedly. I barely knew her but my mother and her husband are devastated. I've been on the phone with my mom for hours at a time except for the last couple of days. She supposedly found out what "really happened" (SS lived in London) and hasn't wanted to talk about it since. So I went from the stress of dealing with my mom who usually is the stable matriarch falling to pieces (not that I minded - I'm the only one she can vent to) to dead silence. All I know is that they had to break into her apartment and she was found sitting up on her couch, dead - mostly likely a cardiac arrest, but might have been suicide. She had trashed her apartment.

This morning we woke up to a non-functioning furnace. It was 10F/-12C outside. This is the brand new furnace we got free from the weatherization program. I guess you get what you pay for. I want our old furnace back. It may not have been energy efficient but at least it worked! I made tons of calls today (I don't like being on the phone) and finally found a community program that pays for furnace repair. Supposedly the repair person will be here between 6:00pm and 7:00pm. We can only hope.

>126 Storeetllr: Any decision or any closer to a decision on where you will go?

>127 msf59: >137 qebo: I'm getting to the point of just shaking my head at every headline then going on with whatever I'm doing. I simply don't have the emotional energy to get upset every time. It's exhausting and I'd be doing it every day for the next four years.

>128 maggie1944: MrMorphy had his kidney retest (creatinine?) and it was fine.

>129 Crazymamie: Thanks and hugs right back atcha!

>130 humouress: I spent all of November like that and ended up doing a lot of rereads.

>131 Sakerfalcon: >132 The_Hibernator: >133 msf59: >136 ronincats: >138 PaulCranswick: Thank you.

>134 PaulCranswick: That was a lovely compliment. Thank you.

>135 Berly: I know how that goes. I've gotten better at posting on other people's threads, not so much on my own.

Oh no! I hope things get better soon!

Oh dear, Morphy, I am so sorry to hear that your life has again become so complex. I certainly sympathize with the furnace situation. We lost our a/c this summer just when we hit a run of days in the triple digits. However, I personally believe being cold is far, far worse than perspiring! I hope the repairs come through.

>140 The_Hibernator: It will. It's just stressful and frustrating right now.

>141 jillmwo: I agree. You can only take off so much, but you can always add another blanket. Our concern is the pipes freezing. However, we have someone here now and they are working on it.

I'm glad it's getting taken care of, and hope it stays fixed! Keep warm!

Hugs.

I'm hoping your lack of heat has been resolved and that you are toasty this morning.

Morning Morph! Sorry to hear about the recent struggles. Did they get the heat working?

Oh, I am so sorry about your step-sister. What a shock for your family. Tell your Mom that a lot of people that she has never met care deeply and are sending loving thoughts her way.

And ugh on the furnace! Hopefully its fixed now and was just a small glitch. It must be under some sort of warranty, right?

Yay that Mr Morphy's creatinine is stable. May that be the first in a long line of good things to come!

Heat's on, folks. Yay!

Great to hear. It's 12 and snowing next door in Sconnie.

Oh gosh, Morphy. I totally get being far from your mom and being worried about her. Thinking of you, sister.
But yay for heat!!

>147 Morphidae: Yay!!! *warbling, Can you hear the people sing?*

I'm so glad you got your heat on, and so sorry for the hard things your family is going through. Ours too. My father-in-law died suddenly a few weeks ago, and we're all struggling with that. Plus, the cat's been sick and is not doing that great. I'm thinking of you and wishing good things for you. Currently I am reading Get it Done when You're Depressed from the library, because I still have to go to work.

I'm so sorry to hear about your recent troubles, but glad that at least the heat is fixed and Mr Morphy got good news from his retest. I will keep your family in my thoughts as you all come to terms with the loss of your SS.

Dear Morphy I hope your Mom is beginning to come to terms with the tragic loss of your Step Sister. I cannot imagine how difficult that must be for a parent.

It is good that you are able to lend her an ear.

>151 reconditereader: Book bullet with Get It Done When You're Depressed. The chapter headings look like things I have heard and know, but I need a kick in the pants. Not accomplishing much lately.

^Someone mentioned this bird to me recently- It is a Morph House Finch. How cool is that?

Despite the frigid weather, we have a lot of activity at our feeder today.

Wondering if you made it through Cursed Child before it went back to the library.

Wouldn't it be nice if 2017 was a year of peace and goodwill.
A year where people set aside their religious and racial differences.
A year where intolerance is given short shrift.
A year where hatred is replaced by, at the very least, respect.
A year where those in need are not looked upon as a burden but as a blessing.
A year where the commonality of man and woman rises up against those who would seek to subvert and divide.
A year without bombs, or shootings, or beheadings, or rape, or abuse, or spite.

2017.

Festive Greetings and a few wishes from Malaysia!

Merry Christmas!!

Thursday was my step-sister's (AM's) funeral. I wasn't close to her but my mother and her husband (her father) are devastated.

She was found in her apartment in London earlier in the month. A neighbor saw AM sitting on her couch as she left for the day. Fourteen hours later, when the neighbor came back, AM was still sitting on the couch. The police opened up the apartment and she was dead. We don't know if it was a natural death or an overdose (accidental or otherwise). We won't find out until we get the autopsy and toxicology results back.

AM was an alcoholic and we found out she had alcohol-related dementia. What made it worse for mom and her husband was all the things they found out that AM had said over the years that weren't true, just a product of her dementia. She said she was engaged when she wasn't. She'd been stalking two ex-boyfriends (including the one she said she was engaged to) and called them three or four times a day. Her apartment was trashed. There were weird things like windows covered by garbage/shopping bags and her back door partially covered by a roll of plastic with the roll hanging from the bottom. There were tables scattered around with odd collections such as half-eaten chocolates or watches. It's just been a sad few weeks.

>143 SylviaC: >144 maggie1944: >145 msf59: Yes, it's staying warm.

>146 streamsong: >150 jillmwo: >152 Sakerfalcon: >153 PaulCranswick: >158 ChelleBearss: Thanks.

>148 Bookmarque: We had some of that. Thankfully it's back into the 30s.

>149 scaifea: The thing is part of me wants to be close to her for times like these. Then I remember that the reason we get along so well now is because I moved away. LOL!

>151 reconditereader: I'm sorry you are having such struggles. It really is the pits. What did you think of the book? I'm really interested in it.

>154 streamsong: I know what you mean. Would love to know if the book helps.

>155 msf59: Very cool. It made me smile.

>156 ronincats: Nope, still sitting here wracking up overdue fines. I got through Act I though! So far I am unimpressed.

>157 PaulCranswick: It would be nice indeed.

>159 Morphidae: How awfully sad for everyone involved. I'm sorry.

>160 qebo: A million hugs, Morphy. I can't imagine anything tougher. This will be a hard Christmas for your Mom and step dad, as I'm sure you realize.

I'm also reading Cursed Child, but just not really feeling it. I do better by reading it outloud. It would be fun to do it that way with kids or partner. The cats and dog have declined to help me out, although they show up whenever I am talking - whether it's the telephone or reading this outloud - so I do have an audience.

>154 streamsong: The book has arrived and I've read the first very short chapter. The message was to accomplish something today that I don't 'feel' like doing, but that I'll feel good about when I am in bed tonight. My project will be to get the last three thank you notes from Mom's funeral written.

Christmas hugs to you and Mr M.

So very sorry at the loss of your stepsister. Deepest condolences to you and your family.

Have you gotten any further with Cursed Child? I finished Act 1 and have no interest in going further, but, if you are liking it more, perhaps I'll pick it up again.

>160 qebo: Thanks.

>161 streamsong: Hmm, the book sounds interesting.

>162 Storeetllr: After Act 1, I wasn't all that interested in continuing it either. But I forced myself to today and was able to finish it. It was better than the first act but still nothing to get excited over. I'll give it 5/10 stars probably. That's barely passable. A 4/10 stars book starts passing into "I didn't like this at all and can't believe I finished it" territory.

***

We're having Papa Murphy's pizza (chicken, garlic sauce, parmesan, zucchini, mushroom, spinach) and watching San Andreas tonight. Love the Rock.

Pizza and a movie for Christmas Eve dinner sounds great! I was thinking of having stir-fry and watching "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" for dinner tonight, since we'll be having family over tomorrow for Christmas so no traditional Chinese and a movie for me then.

Hi Morphy

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season

Merry Christmas, Morph Family! Enjoy that pizza and movie!! Sounds perfect.

Merry Christmas, Morphy!

This is the Christmas tree at the end of the Pacific Beach Pier here in San Diego, a Christmas tradition.

To all my friends here at Library Thing, I want you to know how much I value you and how much I wish you a very happy holiday, whatever one you celebrate, and the very best of New Years!

I'm lurking my way through friends' threads this morning to wish us all the very best for the new year! Sending lots of love, and hugs, through the ether!

Merry Christmas, Morphy.

>159 Morphidae: For everyone who is wondering about Get it Done When You're Depressed, it's ok. I don't agree with every word, but it is nicely laid out for reading in small chunks. I recommend getting it from the library.

Joy and great books to all.

Thanks so much for the Secret Santa books! They're awesome!

Hope life smooths out a bit (a lot) for you in 2017. Wishing you Happy Holidays!

Looking forward to your continued company in 2017.
Happy New Year, Morphy

Wishing for you a happier, healthier, and maybe even a more fulfilling New Year!

I wish you from my heart health, happiness, satisfaction and much exciting read in 2017. May all your wishes come true.


from my hometown Zürich, Switzerland

>164 Storeetllr: I've been hesitant about watching Miss Peregrine's as I recently read the book and I know they made some major changes. Have you read the book? What did you think of the movie?

>165 Whisper1: >166 msf59: >167 Crazymamie: >168 ronincats: >169 maggie1944: >170 Ameise1: >173 Kassilem: >174 Berly: >175 PaulCranswick: >176 jillmwo: >177 Ameise1: Thanks.

>171 reconditereader: Eh. With a less than enthusiastic recommendation, I'll probably give it a pass.

>172 drneutron: I hope you enjoy them!

***

For >175 PaulCranswick: and others:

Books Read in 2016

January: 22
February: 20
March: 10
April: 23
May: 45
June: 39
July: 46
August: 30
September: 24
October: 36
November: 46
December:26
Total: 367

Happy New Year!

I did read Miss Peregrine In fact, I read it soon after it came out, after meeting the author at a book faire in California. (I got a signed copy!) I did not, however, watch the movie. It's not available on Netflix or Amazon Prime. Waiting till it becomes available to watch online.

Happy New Year, Morphy! I hope 2017 is better and that it is filled with good books and lots of fellow readers with whom to discuss them!