Salamander
Fire Walking

On a whim, I purchased a set of felt Christmas ornaments to make. I've always found handwork a very settling thing but seemed to have forgotten this in recent years. I've finished with most of the beadwork, and may actually get some of the ornaments stitched together and stuffed tomorrow. If they turn out less than embarrassing, I might even slap a few pictures of them on an update. I have no clue what I'll do with the finished products though. They look too much like cat toys to actually try to use them.

Today was devoted to rest and relaxation. I did nothing I should have done. In fact, I didn't even rise from bed until 10:30. I must have slept at least ten hours last night, and this makes for the third night in a row that I've gotten real sleep. I can't say what a relief it is.

I've finalized our weekend plans. I nearly cancelled, based on what's been happening in the news, but I need this weekend, and it would be stupid to let a little sniper scare me away. Besides, I'd lose the deposit on the hotel room if I cancelled now. So it's off to Frederick, Maryland come Friday afternoon. Pictures will follow. There are some really neat, photogenic places in Frederick, and there is one in particular I'm dying to see again (it hadn't been completed the last time I saw it). Anyone who knows the area probably knows what I refer to, and the rest of you will just have to wait in suspence till I post the pictures.

No fair guessing.

And yes, there was further word today on the Socialist's car. It seems that the replacement part they ordered for the part that came in damaged was also damaged. The part is an internal panel for the back, and they're saying now that the Socialist can perhaps pick up his car tomorrow and then bring it back when they finally get an intact part. Unfortunately, tomorrow is the Socialist's "hell day", when he teaches at two different colleges. He won't be home until well after 10:00 tomorrow night, and he won't have time during the day to pick the car up. Even when it's good news, it's bad news I guess.

The nights are getting to be a good, crispy cold now. My potted flowers are looking the worst for it. I hate to get rid of them, but I suppose the enclosed garden area will look better without them at this point. At any rate, this gives me a chance to poison that dratted pachysandra. I've never met such a persistent ground cover in my life. You'd think it would know when it wasn't wanted any longer.

(note to self: purchase small bag fiber-fill, paper for printer, and containers to take salt-free snacks and condiments in for trip tomorrow).