Mama’s birthday

 I have been reflecting on my relationship with my mother all week. I remember her kindness and compassion, but also regret the times I mistreated her. She deserved far better than how I sometimes behaved. Though she is no longer with us, her memory lives on, and I am grateful for the positive impact she had on my life. While none of us Sisters may fully embody her spirit, my sister Betty seems to carry on her legacy the most. I  can not celebrate her 104th birthday with her today, but I will honor her memory by continuing to strive to be the kind of person she was. As a small gesture, I took care of some household chores, which I'm sure would have pleased her.

The day brought some blustery winds, but I braved the elements and even burned some kitchen trash in the barrels. It's nice to have that chore done. 

While looking through the obituaries at the Nelson Funeral Home, I recognized a name. I thought the deceased might have gone to school with my sister Betty, but then I thought  she was actually closer in age of Clayton. I had a momentary lapse, forgetting that Betty is a few years younger than  Clayton. The lady was born in 49 and Betty was born in 50 . We do tend to know more people who have passed away than those still living as we get older.

For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious roasted chicken with dressing. I hope Fleta is able to have some for her supper tonight. I'm glad to hear she'll have the next two days off - she deserves the rest.

Not much is happening around the homestead. It's still quite cold, though not as frigid as it has been. I'll need to keep the water running again tonight, but hopefully this will be the last night. The temperatures are supposed to warm up a bit.

As I sit bundled up on the couch under a heated throw, I can feel the chill in the old house. It's probably around 40 degrees, but it could certainly be worse.

The grandkids, Mackenzie and Benjamin, have birthdays coming up soon. Mackenzie was born in '99 and Benjamin in '05. I can easily recall the years they were born, but the specifics of their current ages escape me at times.

Fleta's visit today may have been to check in on me or to retrieve her gloves from yesterday. If the latter, it seems I've already claimed them as my own and have been enjoying wearing them. While they may be just some old cloth gloves, it's understandable to appreciate having a new pair, especially if your options are limited.

Betty's update about flipping her calendar to February has me looking ahead to March, eager for the arrival of spring. I'm planning to get a head start on the gardening, preparing the tomato area and taking measures to control the grass and weeds around my yard. By being proactive in the spring, I hope to maintain a well-kept and tidy outdoor space throughout the warmer months.

Bill's Day Off

It's unclear whether Bill was able to make progress on his shop project during his day off. Hopefully, he had a friend come over to lend a hand and get some work done.

Sourdough Starter Update

The writer's sourdough starter doubled in size, but when a sample was tested, it sank to the bottom of the water, indicating it's not yet ready for baking. I added more flour and apple juice, and is waiting to see how the starter develops tomorrow.

Trump has had a very busy day. He does not want to give any money to California for their disaster You know they are a democratic state. He would like to do away with FEMA After all helping people is just a waste time and  money.  The department of education may be on it's way out. Let's just let each state put their own bill for  education. Never mind states like Arkansas are the poorest ones around After all why educate hillbillies. He is wanting to pass a law so he can stay President till 2038??? I think was the year. He did tell us if we vote for him we'll never have to vote again. For many of us senior citizens if he stays in till  38 that would be true.