This 'N That
September 20, 2013
My brain is shooting off every which way today—so you’re going to get that kind of blog post: a hodge podge of thoughts and information. Often times I clear my head by talking or writing things out, so here goes. (Thanks for putting up with me.)
1. My horse is a doofus. On Wednesday, when I went to ride Tank, I found that his lips were stiff and swollen. His tongue, gums and the roof of his mouth were unaffected. None of us had ever seen anything like it, and as we pondered what could have caused such an affliction (Ant bites? An insect sting? Allergic reaction to something he ate?), it occurred to me that the horses have a new salt and mineral block in their paddock—could he have been a bit overenthusiastic in his consumption? We don’t know for sure, but it seems the most likely explanation. We’ll be keeping an eye on him and on the other horses to see if any of them develop the same problem. He’s eating normally and doesn’t seem distressed by it, so I’m not worried—only puzzled because he’s never done that before.
2. It’s Mary Stewart Reading Week until the 22nd (sorry for the late notice). I’m reading Nine Coaches Waiting, a favorite of mine. I’ve mentioned Mary Stewart in a number of posts, most notably this one. I love her romantic suspense novels and just found out that Lady Stewart recently celebrated her 97th birthday! (She shares a birthday with my mom—cool!) If you’re looking for a lighthearted, interesting read, I recommend one of her books. This unofficial fan site has more information about her, and lots of fun extras such as the quiz “Which Mary Stewart novel is right for you?” and a map showing the settings of her books.
3. How did it get to be Sept. 20? It seems like just yesterday that it was the first of September and now we’re nearly through the month. I’m not complaining—that means that October with its cooler weather is quickly approaching. I can’t believe the year is three-quarters of the way done. I don’t feel like I’ve accomplished much this year. Better get a move on!
4. Pumpkin is taking over the world. Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pie milkshakes, pumpkin ravioli, pumpkin waffles, even pumpkin dog biscuits. (I’m going to make these for Scout—I even bought a dog biscuit-shaped cookie cutter!)
5. I’ve just discovered Brenda Lee Johnson, Kyra Sedgwick’s character in The Closer after checking out the series from the library. I love her toughness, barely disguised by a southern drawl, and how she refuses to be intimidated by the many people who attempt to intimidate her. I’ve found that channeling Brenda helps me stiffen my spine when dealing with people trying to trample on me. Who says TV is a waste of time?
4 comments
Yum. Pumpkin. I love anything pumpkin! I have yet to order a pumpkin spice latte (and all that yummy whip cream on top) but I have tried the Starbucks Via packets of pumpkin spice and I use unsweetened almond milk (so maybe less than 100 calories this way?) and I must say they are pretty yummy. I also love pumpkin granola bars so it's about time to get a box of those as well! I am just glad it is the weekend--I am nearly finished reading a book by Jane Gardam and I've been contemplating now which book will be my 'treadmill' book tomorrow--maybe a new RIP/scary read, but which? Or maybe a library book? Such decisions. I am trying to get some chores out of the way early so I can relax a but this weekend and enjoy the lovely weather we are having. Hope Tank recuperates--all that salt would surely make him pucker! :) Have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteThe only Mary Stewart I've read are the Merlin trilogy and follow up The Wicked Day. I really liked them. I have My Brother Michael on my TBR shelf. I took the quiz and found the first choice for me is Touch Not the Cat, and My Brother Michael was second.
ReplyDeleteDanielle--Who makes pumpkin granola bars?? I'd like to try them.
ReplyDeleteI've never really been able to read books on the treadmill--but can easily read magazines. I know "they" say you should concentrate on your workout, but I never do--I always have to have something to read or it feels like torture. But I can happily walk/run for 45 minutes if I have something to read
Hope you have a great weekend!
Cheryl--And I've never read the Merlin books! I really much check them out of the library.
ReplyDeleteMy Brother Michael is one of the Greek novels, and one of my favorites. I took it with me to Greece when I went a few years ago, since I was going to be in the same area in which the book is set. I hope you enjoy it when you finally get around to reading it.