Norcal Gma 2

Retired rural grandma, caregiver, and dog mom to a sweet lab named Summer.
Love to bake and gift to friends and family.
Happy in my garden.
Proud Wailaki.
Living a quiet life on the north coast of California.
Please don't private message me asking for money if I don't know you. I already found the love of my life, too.
Mean comments aren't necessary or welcome.
Please be kind.

Public Key

npub1dvgr0x8wwa3wzw5htcmgdt6xdgs363wa0ryaxmklxk5eauaf4t8qyjwcmf

NIP-05 Address

NorcalGma2@sfba-social.mostr.pub

Profile Code

nprofile1qqsxkyphnrh8wchp82t4ud5x4arx5ggaghwh3jwndm0nt2v77w564nspz3mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfduqs6amnwvaz7tmwdaejumr0dsg7arj4

Publishing to

relay.damus.io

nos.lol

Author Public Key

npub1dvgr0x8wwa3wzw5htcmgdt6xdgs363wa0ryaxmklxk5eauaf4t8qyjwcmf

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Last Notes

2026-10-27 02:42:06 UTC

Today's focus was Summer.
Celebrating her birthday all day.
We are lucky she joined our family.
From the first time I held her I was smitten.
She is so loving.
My husband is her favorite but I try to get attention here and there.
Tonight we froze for our sunset watching while sitting on the deck stairs. Chilly willy.
I told her that it looks like the rain is done for now but the cold is here to stay. Time to get out the extra blankets.
Summer is thankful for all of the birthday good wishes from her Mastodon friends.
She really is a happy dog.
https://files.sfba.social/media_attachments/files/117/510/556/782/735/243/original/940007bc78198657.jpg

2026-10-26 22:02:20 UTC

I had business to attend to this morning so it looked like Summer's birthday adventure might have to wait until tomorrow.
All of the sudden opportunity knocked.
We quick grabbed our backpack and drove towards the break in the weather that seemed to have stopped right over our favorite beach.
Summer was so, so happy.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
https://files.sfba.social/media_attachments/files/117/509/456/871/078/972/original/18338e414719fe91.mp4

2026-10-26 17:24:33 UTC

Summer's birthday started with a spot of rainbow colors in the sky.
Good morning Mastodon.
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2026-10-25 15:10:49 UTC

Summer was awake.
I got the paw.
I got the paw again.
She didn't want me to miss the sunrise.
We took the first photo from our bedroom window and the second from our front door.
Summer was a happy dog spinning around and making happy dog noises.
Happy Sunday morning from our little family to you.
Good morning, Mastodon.
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2026-10-23 16:22:15 UTC

Summer's groomer spiffed her up yesterday.
She is soft and warm on my lap.
We are planning our day.
Summer says she want to work on her book.
She is opining on how to train a regular family to be a dog family.
Her methods might be unique.
She has definitely changed our household for the better and wants to share her success.
These morning cuddles are my favorite time of day. We are relaxed, warm and happy.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-22 03:35:45 UTC

Summer and I kept going out on the deck to see if the rain that looks and feels so very close will actually fall on us.
I can hope.
Summer says that rain is a pain.
She thinks she is being funny but getting dried off and getting your feet washed before you can come in the house is a pain.
I understand but we really need rain.
Everything feels too dry, looks not green and smells funny.
Soon Summer says.
I hope she is right.
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2026-10-22 00:47:46 UTC

My sister sent me a packet of family photos today.
I have been looking for a particular photo of my mother that was taken when she was working for the Howard family at Ridgewood Ranch.
She also worked for the famous author Jessmyn West. I don't know what happened to her set of autographed books.
The missing photo was of her sitting on Seabisquit. So far I haven't been able to find which family member ended up with the framed keepsake. It is probably lost.
After she left Indian Boarding School she worked as a servant for wealthy households.
My sister didn't find the photo in her stuff but sent me other horse related pictures from my mother's photo album.
Two were taken on the reservation when she was a baby and a teen. It looks like the same saddle.
My mom was the real deal. She could ride, hunt, fish, shoot straight and hold her own on the round up.
I think I got some of her pluck.
It's cool to see these new to me photos.
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2026-10-21 21:37:22 UTC

A no Summer moment from our beach adventure today.
There were hundreds of birds including brown pelicans, shorebirds and seagulls.
The birds didn't pay any attention to Summer and she gave them their space. No chasing. I was proud of her. She is a very good dog.
https://files.sfba.social/media_attachments/files/117/481/049/927/384/579/original/580fe5a6ee99f24c.mp4

2026-10-21 21:18:36 UTC

I woke up this morning with a tight neck.
Lucky for me my massage therapist was willing to help.
I showed up in sweats and slippers.
She is fabulous.
I needed help and help she provided.
She also slathered my neck with a smelly ointment that was worth the smell because it helped too.
I'm moving pretty well now.
Thank goodness.
Summer and I headed down the hill for our adventure late for us. It was afternoon.
Lots of people at all of our regular haunts.
We ended up on a sketchy trail going over the dunes far away from the crowds.
I followed Summer to the ocean.
After a good walk she found the way back to the car.
It's good that one of us has a good sense of direction.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-21 04:04:36 UTC

Today I tried to explain Mastodon to Summer's vet. I told her that Summer has friends all over the world.
The vet asked what she does that is special.
I said that I'm not sure that she does anything more special than other happy dogs.
I said that we share photos of her doing everyday dog stuff. Usually she is smiling though.
She asked if Summer's friends know how sweet and soft she is. Extremely huggable.
If they didn't know this fact before they do now.
The three of us watched the sunset from our new deck this evening.
Now we are passing it on you, our dear friends, because we can.
Thanks to everyone who makes Mastodon available and easy to use so we can share Summer kindness far and wide.
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2026-10-21 00:33:40 UTC

We just got home from the veterinary office. .
Summer was such a good girl.
She let them poke, prod and take a blood sample without even a whimper.
She got lots of pets and scritches.
The good news is that her heart and lungs sound great and she had no obvious health issues.
The even better news is that she lost three pounds since this time last year.
No mention of a diet this time.
Whew!
Thursday we get the blood test results and won't have to take her back in until January.
Thrilled to be back home she is already taking a nap.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-20 19:53:21 UTC

A few more Summer beach adventure photos from this morning. The first one is my new favorite. I think Summer is beautiful. She is four years old this week.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-20 00:40:42 UTC

The clouds can't decide which way to go.
Every which way it is.
Today I asked my husband what he wants to do.
We are not getting any younger or healthier at this point.
He has always loved travel.
At some point it got less fun for me.
He still hopes to regain more of his strength so we can see new places together.
After being a pilot for all of his adult life I'm surprised that he doesn't want to ask one of his pilot friends to fly him on an adventure but he doesn't.
I think if there is something he really wants to do or someone he wants to do it with now is the time. I don't like driving in busy traffic places and I know that I wouldn't be the best companion for a road trip.
I love him and wouldn't begrudge anything that makes him happy.
For tonight we settle for a quiet dinner together.
We will see.
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2026-10-19 23:37:31 UTC

The last of my pie apples.
They would have spoiled otherwise.
I could have made applesauce, I guess, but it is harder to decorate.
I was looking to re-home the finished product until my husband decided that it smells to good to let go.
Now to start throwing together the homemade chicken soup for dinner.
The excitement is neverending.
#Baking
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2026-10-19 15:32:35 UTC

Summer is an early riser.
She waits for me to turn the furnace up so we can warm the house before her pal gets out from under the warm covers.
I grabbed a jacket and warm hat.
This was the view when we opened the front door.
Glorious.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Sunrise
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2026-10-19 01:16:24 UTC

Feeling like I need to keep my hands busy.
I don't have postcards to write anymore.
I've sent embroidered tea towels to everyone on my list.
What to do?
Sometimes I am quiet but stay close by as my husband rests in his chair.
I'm not good at sitting still.
I do like to read but my mind wanders if the book isn't engaging enough.
I haven't been baking because my daughter is on a special diet before an upcoming surgery and I am letting go of sugar for now.
Hmmmm.
Maybe I should ask Summer.

2026-10-19 00:10:36 UTC

I took this photo through a double pane glass door. The only way the hawk would pose for me.
A sure sign that the seasons have shifted and are barreling towards winter are the birds who share our hillside.
The birds of prey are back to haunt our fenceposts and stalk our resident covey of quail.
The geese that honk their way over the house, in formation, on the regular.
The flickers who tap on the house to pester Summer.
I'm glad they feel welcome here.
#BackyardBirds
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2026-10-18 21:17:04 UTC

Summer's beach adventure today.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-17 18:20:05 UTC

Summer sees me getting ready to leave with my new sign.
She says she will hold down the fort from her safe, under the table, hiding spot.
I tell her that I will be back soon.
Summer is a sweetheart.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-17 16:29:34 UTC

I finally hand printed the last voter postcard for the US midterm elections. I've run out of time. Election day is right around the corner.
I have written thousands of cards.
This is one box ready to mail.
Don't know if my effort will make a difference but not doing anything isn't an option so I do what I can.
Today I will join my daughter and grandkids to protest at our county seat.
Summer would love to go along but someone needs to stay home with her pal.
Good morning, Mastodon.
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2026-10-16 05:27:56 UTC

Today was unseasonably warm.
As Summer and I watched the sunset we noticed that the sky even looked toasty.
Clouds of tiny flies hatched by the hot weather swarmed our space and chased us into the house.
I am ready for rains to clear the air, water the dry fields and turn Humboldt County green again.
Summer moved around between the coolest spots in the house all day. She is not a warm weather dog and is smart to stay out of the sun.
The forecast for tomorrow promises the temperature will go down.
We both hope so.
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2026-10-15 16:47:36 UTC

It is morning on a day that ends in a Y. Summer says that combo means it is probably an adventure day.
My husband wants to cozy up in his chair with hot chocolate and cinnamon toast instead of coming along. We promised to bring back pictures and stories.
The ocean was spectacular.
Summer gloves with the early morning sun.
I was able to take a deep breath and exhale instead of holding it in.
Summer was too excited to stay put next to our Good Mornin written in the sand.
She says that her friends will get the gist anyway
All in all an epic adventure.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
https://files.sfba.social/media_attachments/files/117/445/936/858/228/148/original/f050094ca79879da.mp4

2026-10-14 20:00:22 UTC

I took this picture of Summer early this morning.
She was sitting on her perch.
The highest point on our property.
My husband cleared a flat to build the house fifty years ago. He pushed the dirt towards the road and left the pile there because he liked the privacy it provided.
Later we added a fence to keep out our wandering, famous artist neighbor, who shamelessly helped himself to most of my flowers every day as he let his dogs poop on our grass. When asking him nicely to stop didn't work we built a fence.
Now Summer thinks she is the queen of all that she sees. I keep telling her that she doesn't rule the neighborhood to no avail. She still barks at the artist as he walks by.
When I looked at this photo and she looked like she was glowing I started to wonder if she's right and I'm wrong.
Happy Wednesday Mastodon friends.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-14 05:26:53 UTC

Yesterday I responded to Indigenous Peoples Day by sharing some of my family's history.
I have one more story for you.
My mother was born Wailaki and lived on the Round Valley Reservation.
At least seven families lived on the ranch. Three generations of grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.
My mother always said that while the country was starving during the depression they had ample game to hunt, fish in the Eel River and a massive garden. But when she was sent to Indian Boarding School she starved.
I tell you this because her later health issues were likely the result of malnutrition as an adolescent.
I was her end of life caregiver.
The doctors were convinced that the atrophy of her brain was from alcohol. She was Indian but never a drinker. They wouldn't believe us and didn't help.
Prejudice can manifest in so many different ways.
She deserved better.
This is why I seek out care for myself at my Indian Health clinic. They believe me when I tell them the truth
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2026-10-14 00:24:22 UTC

Summer says that she isn't really political.
She does have opinions and is very smart though.
When we go to the beach she will sit down and wait for me to write something in the sand.
It's almost like she needs to get this done before she can commence with stampeding around and fetching sticks.
So because I love her I oblige.
Today she wanted everyone to know that as a high IQ dog she has always known that dumb is spelled with a b.
Summer for President 2028.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-13 02:32:51 UTC

My father was white
Blue eyed, blond, glow in the dark white.
He had spent part of his childhood on my mother's reservation. His parents who were very poor followed the railroad construction along the Eel River canyon and through the Round Valley Reservation. My grandfather was a railroad worker.
While attending the one room school house on the rez he got to be friends with my mother's family.
She went off to Indian Boarding School and he to Alaska until they were adults. They were pen pals for years.
He left his world for hers because she wouldn't fit in his.
He had to stick out like a sore thumb living on the reservation.
They moved to town before I was born.
This photo is my mother's uncles on each side of my dad.
It isn't lost on me that ICE would stop my family because of their skin color these days.
Things haven't changed so much.
Unfortunately.
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2026-10-13 01:06:50 UTC

I am an indigenous person.
My mother called us Indians.
So did my classmates.
In the pecking order that existed at my elementary school that fact put me squarely at the bottom until the first black people came to our school. At that point I shared the bottom of the order.
Being Indian was lower than being a poor white person.
Meet my grandmother.
She was sent to Carlisle Indian Boarding School with her siblings. They were all tough as nails.
She didn't stray far from the reservation again after she made it home.
She did live with us one summer.
All of my cousins came with.
She taught me that life was too short to waste it hating the people that hated us.
Instead she taught me to write poetry.
The Wailaki people were almost exterminated.
But not entirely because here I am.
She would have been amused that we have Indigenous Peoples Day now I think.
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2026-10-12 19:57:41 UTC

Just like I feel like Spring is the beginning of our year Autumn feels like the beginning of the end.
The last of our flowers are blooming even as the leaves are falling. The wind is the uncomfortable edge to what looks like a perfectly warm day everyday.
I have lived within fifty miles of where I am now all of my life.
October starts out with most perfect weather but by Halloween you can't venture out without a jacket.
The lack of rain is the biggest sign of climate change.
My rubber boots are dust gatherers now that drought is a regular thing.
Summer and I fed the blueberry bushes today after we filled the free pantry with food.
Now we wait for the grandkids to help me figure out how I screwed up the phone connection to my car. They set me up with Tidal for music but I seem to have broken it somehow.
Happy Monday Mastodon friends.
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2026-10-12 05:23:16 UTC

#SilentSunday
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2026-10-12 02:22:41 UTC

Summer was all happy go lucky.
Playing with Tennessee like they didn't have a care in the world.
All of the sudden a gust of wind hit the house and like a flash they were under the table.
The safest shelter from the wild and wooly wind noises.
Summer is more entertaining than pretty much anything else in our world.
We might have to see if we can all fit under there depending on how things go over the next three weeks.
Today I wrote another 75 voter encouragement postcards bound for Colorado. 325 to go.
Summer says never give up but hiding is ok.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-11 04:13:26 UTC

Our hill is windy.
It's chilly willy.
Summer says it's not so bad.
I'm wearing a stocking cap to protect my ears.
She has her own ear protection system.
I really love this special time at the end of the day.
Summer is a calm loving companion.
I tell her everything.
I told her that I am afraid.
She said she understands.
Sleep will do me a world of good.
Good night Mastodon friends.
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2026-10-09 16:50:55 UTC

Summer notices every little thing.
She knows that when I put a lid on my coffee cup that I am going to take her for a walk.
She runs to fetch boot socks and a hat for me.
I feel like it would be impossible to fool her. She knows what I'm going to do before I know.
My husband seems to feel like getting out every other day so today was a rest day for him.
Summer said today was a good day for the longest walk.
She does love the beach.
Into the fog and drizzle we went.
Fun was had.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-08 17:33:09 UTC

We received $90 each from the Federal Government today. I recognize that we are being given our own tax dollars to try and influence our vote.
It's not working.
We find it offensive so we turned around and gave the money to someone else who didn't get a bribe and could use the assistance.
I can hardly wait until January when hopefully things change for the better.

2026-10-06 16:29:58 UTC

Summer was surprised when I started packing an adventure backpack.
The fog was so thick you couldn't see much of anything.
Exercise is the point so away we went.
We couldn't see the ocean while we were standing on the beach.
Stick throwing and retrieving happened anyway.
Fun was had.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-10-05 02:47:24 UTC

An unwelcome surprise today.
I drove all the food I prepared to town.
Stopped at Costco to pick up some raffle items to donate to Humboldt Breast Health Project for my daughter to take to their their upcoming Zoombathon fundraiser.
While I was at her house I enjoyed some of the smaller sized dahlias.
In the time I was gone someone came into our yard and relieved us of the car type battery that powers our gate. I couldn't figure out why the gate wouldn't open. My husband had to help me get in the yard.
I guess I am battery shopping tomorrow.
It's probably good that Summer didn't notice so my husband didn't either while the battery caper was in progress.
I'm thankful for that.
#Dahlias #BloomScrolling
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2026-10-04 00:14:34 UTC

The Humboldt Bay Wildlife Refuge is down the hill from us. I don't usually go there to walk because they don't allow dogs.
Today I stayed in one position too long while sanding the deck and needed to walk to get my hip to stop hurting.
I left Summer to take care of my husband while I took a fast walk.
I hadn't been there in months and was sad to see how dry it is.
We need rain.
Most of the ponds were dry.
The fog was rolling in so there was a chill in the air.
The walk made me feel better though.
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2026-10-03 23:51:44 UTC

So my daughter has dahlia growing skills.
She was picking flowers in her garden today.
#BloomScrolling #Dahlias
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2026-10-03 04:09:53 UTC

I met my husband when I was twenty five.
His easy smile, sense of humor and good looks were hard to resist. I knew right away that we would be great friends.
His biggest drawback was all of the other women chasing him around. I didn't have time for games and he understood that about me.
We chose each other on purpose.
Over forty years later he is still easy to love.
The only other female chasing him lately is Summer and I'm ok with that and so is he.
How lucky we are to share so much for so long.
Still making each other laugh.
What more could we want?
The three of us watched the fog roll up the hill this evening.
Together still.
Feels right.
Romance equals love equals us.
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2026-10-02 20:42:04 UTC

Finally down to the final name on my list.
The last embroidered towel for awhile.
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2026-10-02 17:25:18 UTC

Summer and her pal's have a new way to wake me up in the morning. First I hear "are you awake?" followed by"are you busy?" Clearly sleeping isn't busy work.
This morning they had cooked up a plan to go to the beach together. I rubbed the sleep out of my eyes and said wait for me.
This time we walked from the parking lot. No four wheeling to shorten the walking time. With many rest stops and some stretching we walked over a mile! This is an accomplishment!
Summer was as happy a dog as she could possibly be.
I tried to be nonchalant like I expected no less but under that poker face I was excited for my husband who got fresh air, saw the deer spring across the trail, heard the meadowlarks sing and got to throw sticks for Summer on the beach.
He got his favorite waffle breakfast when we got home.
This day is a good one and we are just getting started.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-30 18:38:00 UTC

Summer got lots of positive attention for being so helpful this morning.
Unlike US politics "trickle down" works at our house.
We love on Summer and she loves on Tennessee.
All of this positive attention giving and receiving is self serving because we kind of live in a closed loop.
Summer says that's how things are supposed to work.
She might be right again.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-30 05:54:57 UTC

We had fog this evening.
Yesterday we didn't.
This was yesterday.
Tomorrow is a day with nothing on our calendar.
I'm looking forward to the empty schedule.
Nice visit with friends today.
They were happy to get fresh cinnamon rolls.
Time to curl up with a book until I can fall asleep.
Good night Mastodon friends.
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2026-09-29 19:02:00 UTC

Getting together with my friend Matt Beard whose art I collect. We are meeting for ice cream on this perfectly sunny afternoon.
It's been months since we chatted so there's going to be lots to share.
I'm woefully out of touch with his art and poetry adventures.
Because I always bring him fresh cinnamon rolls I started prepping first thing this morning.
They need to rise one more time before baking.
Should be baked and cooled enough to add the cream cheese frosting before I have to leave.
Barely.
#Baking
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2026-09-29 03:27:59 UTC

Summer brings her pal his slippers.
Nothing makes her happier than being helpful.
After she brings the slippers she slides right in to supervise the putting them on part.
#Summer
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2026-09-28 03:27:24 UTC

I have been lax when it comes to keeping up with friends.
During Covid I showed up at everyone's house once a week to bring comfort food and treats. We passed out masks and disinfecting wipes like we were giving out Halloween candy.
Going from Covid right to Trump has definitely worn us down. I still love them all but the world feels tarnished and it's a challenge to pull others up instead of down some days.
The good news is that my friends are reaching out and reminding me that lifting up isn't a one way street.
Tuesday I get to visit with my favorite artist.
He is getting ready to paint to music at next weekend's local music festival.
This painting was from a few years ago. At the end of the event the paintings were auctioned.
I wanted this one and bid until I was the last one standing. It is huge and it sings to me.
Matt Beard's paintings all sing to me.
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2026-09-28 00:31:24 UTC

Like almost everyday we decided to head for the beach to get some fresh air and exercise.
My husband said that he would stay home because he slows us down.
Summer and I assured him that we all have a better time when he is with us and I honestly feel like we are all safer together too.
I said that if being slow was his only excuse that he should reconsider.
He said that today he feels low energy and would like to stay home.
We can understand that so we left him with snacks and a football game.
The beach was just like we remembered it.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-27 15:26:01 UTC

Summer wanted a laugh.
We all cuddled up together on the sofa to watch the Jimmy Kimmel monologues from last week.
She loves a good Natalie Harp joke.
We are on a mission to have fun.
Summer is egging us on.
She says go for it.
This week will be the eat our favorite foods, go to the beach whenever we want and binge television that tickles our funny bone.
Not to say that we won't take care of business but only if it doesn't interfere with the festivities.
Hope your party is as fun as ours.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-26 05:48:57 UTC

The media reminds us daily that the bad guys are running amok. Destroying everything in their path as they increase their access to power and wealth with no consideration for anyone outside of their class.
It is a sad state of affairs.
Yet those of us who live in the real world class have to figure out how to make the best of what they leave for us.
We are not alone in this mess.
I met some new people on the phone and in person today who seemed like they understand that we are all trying to get by and that helping each other is the only way forward.
I ran into a person at the free food pantry who was also leaving food. He said that he is heartened by the neverending food donations.
The lawn mower repair guy put on a mask because I was masked. He was kind.
My plumber refused to charge me for all of the time he put into helping me troubleshoot our water issues.
And there is this extraordinary Mastodon community who represent the very best class of humans on the planet.
Feeling the love.
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2026-09-25 22:07:26 UTC

I spent some time lodging complaints about the lab that gave us bogus water test results. In the process I found out that they have had their certification suspended multiple times.
I talked to the head of our county environmental protection department, my State Assembly person, my county supervisor and the CA State Water Board.
I also lodged a claim for a refund of the test kits through our credit card.
After that it was time for some fun on this beautiful day. A quick vote on where to go and we were off. The three of us took the truck to the beach.
Nothing in the whole world makes Summer happier than the whole family on an adventure together.
It was a lovely distraction.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-25 21:44:18 UTC

Summer is such a helper.
When nobody has time to take her for a walk she says no matter I'll do it myself.
Away with the formalities and right to the exercise part.
There's nothing Summer won't do to lighten the load on everyone else.
I asked how her walk went.
She said perfect.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-25 04:20:40 UTC

Summer is such a great listener. She looks interested and understanding.
I'm feeling old today.
For months I have been testing our well water. In the old days I would have found a local lab and driven a water sample to their business. I would have decided if trusted them or not immediately.
This time I found a highly rated testing entity online. I sent my money and got several fancy test kits in the mail. We followed the instructions and shipped them back. A week later a friendly email came with devastating results.
After trusting that those results were accurate I fixed what was wrong. Several even worse tests followed. It didn't make sense. For good reason.
Our health department rushed a test for us. They found clean drinkable water. They are awesome.
I've been scammed by TapScore.
If I had been dealing with real people this might have worked out better.
How can I trust this digital world?
I shouldn't.
I think.
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2026-09-24 15:47:28 UTC

Summer and her pal are keeping me company while I flip blueberry flapjacks.
I'm thinking about fall mornings I've stood and flipped hundreds of pancakes for veterans during the North Coast Stand Down. This weekend will be the twentieth anniversary of our local version of this event.
I first volunteered after hearing an appeal on the radio as I drove to work. The organizers were expecting hundreds of veterans at our local fairgrounds but were short cooks and bottlewashers. It was through that experience that I learned that my husband was eligible for benefits due to his service.
Haircuts, dental care, veterinary services and good food made for a helpful weekend for the participants. The volunteers score a t-shirt and the good feeling you get from doing a good thing.
I chaired their board for three years before passing the torch when my husband needed me more.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-23 19:53:44 UTC

I must have ordered postcards and forgot. I ordered more.
Seven hundred postcards to get ready to mail.
It's worth it if it encourages even one voter.
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2026-09-22 20:22:01 UTC

Summer is feeling pampered.
Her groomer stopped by to give her the works.
Her nails are filed and she smells like a critter that's not a dog who frolicked on the beach today.
Not too mention she is super soft.
Busy day for both of us on only four hours of sleep.
Now we wait for the contractor to come measure the windows he will be replacing.
We might need a nap after that.
Summer couldn't wait she is already napping.
I might need a late cup of coffee.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-22 18:16:54 UTC

Even though it was cold with a heavy drizzle Summer and I skipped our way to the beach early, early this morning.
Fun was had.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-22 18:12:52 UTC

Good morning Mastodon friends!
I am still busy being engaged in an epic battle with the company I paid to test our water.
Because I know some people around here I have been able to confirm that the lab that did the actual analysis of our water has had issues with inaccurate results.
Our local health department will accept samples from us tomorrow. I have purchased a test from an out of state lab too.
I sent all six of the test results to our plumber who says they make no sense at all.
Hopefully we come out of this with a good outcome. I am more hopeful now.
Summer and I are still smiling regardless because we were on the beach in the drizzle together at the crack of dawn.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-21 19:35:45 UTC

Summer and I have to take the day off today.
I am putting all of our energy into trying to secure our water test results from TapScore.
We were supposed to have them last Friday.
I can be a very squeaky wheel/grandma if I have to be.
Nice but persistent.
I have to get this situation corrected so there's that.
We will check in after I win.
Happy Monday Mastodon friends.

2026-09-20 21:16:13 UTC

The last of my beach adventure photos for today. Summer brings joy to us every single day.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-20 21:13:02 UTC

Summer was a happy dog. Her pal sat on a driftwood log to throw a stick for her. She says walks don't get better than this.
#Summer
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2026-09-20 21:09:45 UTC

More beach adventure photos from Summer's trip to the beach with her pal today.
I am so happy that we are in a place, in this moment, when this kind of adventure is possible.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-20 21:04:59 UTC

Summer was antsy.
She didn't get an epic walk this morning. Is one of the sweetest dogs in the universe but definitely has a need for speed. Running and running makes her happy.
I told my husband that I was going to change into beach going clothes and take her down the hill.
By the time I got outside he had changed too. He said Summer told him that we could get him to the beach and back.
She had said no problem.
I can't be the reason Summer let him down but this meant we had to take the fourwheel drive vehicle to get closer to the ocean. Thrilled to get the opportunity to adventure together we set off to make it work.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-20 15:25:28 UTC

Summer understands why we couldn't run down the hill for an adventure this morning. I promised to meet my daughter to shop at Costco. Sunrise is so late we don't have enough time to get everything done before I have to leave for town and still get an early walk.
I know my daughter is feeling the same anxiety that I feel around the price of food. I think for a minute that I don't have answers but realize that I do.
We carry on.
Been here before.
I will spend the time to cook and bake things we can share.
Helping our neighbors will be a challenge we tackle together too.
We made a list of items to buy today to stock up a local program called The Raven Project. This place is a safe destination for LBGTQ youth. They host music and art activities as well as a queer coffee shop. Buying lots of protein bars and personal care items. Coffee too.
Summer approves of this message.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-18 15:53:29 UTC

A few more Summer adventure photos from this morning. There was no sun so everything except Summer was gray.
We did have the trail and beach to ourselves.
Happy dog.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-18 15:48:23 UTC

Summer finally got to the beach.
At first light we motored on down the road.
We sang along together in the car.
This is the very best start for a day.
I promised fun and didn't let her down.
Fun was had.
We had mist in our face the whole time but it wasn't cold or windy.
Perfect.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-11 15:39:12 UTC

Spending a few minutes cuddling Summer. She is so full of warm, soft, pure love.
We remember that it is 9/11 again.
Twenty five years ago we felt the gravity of events even as we watched in real time.
We both left for work.
My husband ended up flying one of the few planes allowed in the air as he got clearance to fight a fire. I was running a planned outreach to provide immediate resources to homeless residents of our county seat. I was surprised to see people in line hoping I would have information as well as hotel and food vouchers. All day New York natives came looking for news and to ask if they could watch our television.
I gave comfort where I could but it struck me that I met so many people estranged from their families who might not know they cared so deeply.
I gave out hugs and my phone for calls because we are all family on some level and that was all I could do.
Tears for all that was lost that day.
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2026-09-05 19:58:21 UTC

We decided to sit in the fresh air together and watch the roses bloom.
There are only two chairs out right now and three of us so somebody was going to have to share.
Summer offered me the edge of her chair but it came with benefits.
Beautiful day here on our northern California hillside.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-05 16:03:28 UTC

Yesterday was interesting.
We had to get back in the swing of boiling water and avoiding the dirtying of dishes because it's a pain to wash them.
We ended up having peanut butter and jam sandwiches for my birthday dinner. After the water is sorted we will reschedule our family get together.
Summer and I decided to skip our beach adventure this morning as a holiday weekend usually brings out more people and dogs than we want to encounter.
I got up early and boiled gallons of water, added a touch of bleach, so we could be prepared to cook a decent breakfast and clean up.
Blueberry pancakes for us and prescription food for Summer with chicken and rice added.
Summer definitely seems to be feeling well again.
I am so thankful that we have a huge supply of bottled water. We will need it over the next ten days or so.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-04 00:24:08 UTC

I finished the embroidery on another towel. I probably have dessert on my mind.
Tomorrow will be what I thought was my sixty seventh birthday until I was gently reminded that I will be sixty eight.
Family is coming together for a meal followed by my favorite lemon blueberry scones. I will wake up early tomorrow to bake them fresh.
I can't believe I have been a year off all year.
Oh well.
It's just a number.
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2026-09-03 23:13:49 UTC

I was thrilled to see that the doors are back on the free food pantry. I was waiting for the rain to pass before I restocked the shelves. I am so happy to be able to leave food without worrying about the weather.
There is a shop across the street that sells local frozen beef. l was able to use a gift certificate given to me for my birthday to buy eight one pound packages of ground beef. I sat at the picnic table and along came a family with five kids. They were excited to see food on the shelves but even more excited to take home the ground beef.
The kids were most in awe that there was spicy ramen.
Our little town is a good place to be.
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2026-09-02 00:22:15 UTC

Finally together again.
If anyone can talk her into eating the prescription food it will be her best friend.
Now we can all relax.
Summer even wagged her tail.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-09-01 00:40:57 UTC

Summer, Tennessee and I all got an afternoon nap today.
It must have been because of all that getting up early we did this morning.
She is so, so sweet.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-31 16:38:12 UTC

Summer wishes she lived in Canada.
I told her that we can only wish because we are too old to immigrate anywhere. We are fortunate to be in a blue state at least.
I am embarrassed and horrified at the stupidity of the orange demagogue ruining our country and renaming stuff.
The rest of our beach time we skipped around in the sand thanking our lucky stars for the gift of being together on this wild and beautiful shore even for an hour.
Love you all
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-31 16:15:41 UTC

Summer and I have the same habit of waking up right before the alarm would wake us anyway. Not sure why but I'm not sure if much these days. Regardless you can count on us to be up with the chickens most mornings. We had everything laid out so we could get in a quick adventure before zooming back home to get our truck to the shop. When my husband was in the hospital and my car was in the shop I realized driving the truck sucked because it needed new shocks. It isn't my favorite to drive anyway but yikes.
Today's the day.
Summer and I managed to get in an hour of good exercise, got the truck checked in on time and breakfast all before 9.
We are cookin with gas today for sure.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-31 05:54:09 UTC

While I was working I would occasionally treat myself to original Matt Beard paintings. When I met him most of his fans seemed to be surfers. The only thing he and I had in common was the art itself. Seeing the California coast through his eyes and talent brought me joy then as it does now.
When I was accumulating all of these paintings I had a huge office with walls. When I retired the paintings came home with me. Sometimes I feel guilty that they are closeted away here. I keep them on our walls because they are safer there. The earthquakes move them but they don't fall.
I'm not sure why I connect with this artist more than others. Why people do things and feel things is a mystery to me. Even when it's me I'm trying to understand.
I own dozens of all shapes and sizes and every one of them speaks to me.
I need to text Matt and tell him again how much I appreciate his talent.
It's been a minute since we talked.
#Art
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2026-08-30 20:37:03 UTC

Decided to run down the hill to join a local protest for an hour.
Seven dedicated citizens were exercising their right to free speech.
I brought peanut butter chip cookies because protesting is hungry sort of work and I will bake for anyone who likes sweets.
Nice people.
They ate my cookies.
Made me happy.
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2026-08-30 17:25:41 UTC

Summer and Tennessee took a seat to listen in on our discussion this morning.
Well.
She listened for awhile before she had an opinion.
Her pal, all of the sudden, is worried what will happen to us, if something happens to him.
It's true that most of our income is tied to him.
It is also true that because he was a professional aerial firefighter no one would sell us life insurance.
These are things I have always known.
I'm not worried.
Summer's not worried either so we tell him he shouldn't worry.
We know how to make do.
I have marketable skills if I needed to supplement my income.
I told him that someone would pay us to cook, clean, bake and help them.
I could get a roommate.
We have options.
Summer says worrying about these things isn't the best use of our energy.
Time for breakfast and big ol bear hugs all around.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-30 13:29:17 UTC

#SilentSunday
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2026-08-29 20:07:04 UTC

A perfect day for a stroll around the farmer's market. Sunny, breezy and friendly.
Freshly harvested everything.
We took a side quest for bagels and coffee, from a booth set up in the middle of the plaza, while listening to Dolly Parton songs covered by a local band.
My daughter gifted me a bolga basket so I fit in now. My good trouble t-shirt and embroidered jacket wasn't quite enough.
I bought my basket full of goodies and hers too.
I am really blessed by the universe in so many ways.
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2026-08-29 15:22:26 UTC

Yesterday was cleaning day.
Summer and I cleaned the house all day long.
Time to take care of deferred maintenance.
We met with a contractor who agreed to paint outside and will replace our largest picture window which failed years ago. Huge and way the heck up there it will be a project. Right when I think the last major projects are done they aren't really.
I also finished writing 200 more voter postcards to be mailed today to Texas.
100 Maine postcards to write before we wait for the next batch.
Time to get some breakfast on the table so I can head to the farmer's market with my daughter.
I wasn't sure what to think about the the attention my last toot got. I was surprised. The act of surviving shouldn't be such a miracle, but it is, and really hasn't gotten easier in fifty years.
My cheering section was keeping me company while I was flipping hotcakes this morning.
Summer says good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-28 03:23:23 UTC

Fifty three years ago I started the day as a child and ended it as a mom. This was the first photo of me and my daughter. We both still had our hospital bracelet on.
The hospital where she delivered never even gave me a room. I was left in a hallway and discharged about eight hours after I arrived. As an unwed mother I didn't warrant a red carpet welcome. I paid them $250 and went home to the room I rented in an old Victorian house. Obviously there were holes in the wallpaper but we were warm and safe and we were living within our means. I was fourteen years old and ninety eight pounds.
I'm sharing my story because it shows all good things are possible.
My daughter turned into the best kind of human.
It wasn't easy but I have zero regrets.
True grit was never personified by John Wayne types but by regular people surviving against the odds.
Disappointing the doubters was sweet consolation.
She gave me the gift of grandkids too.
I've had a good life.
So far.
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2026-08-25 15:44:35 UTC

Summer blooper this morning.
She was so excited about her message she couldn't stay still.
We love our Canadian neighbors and are very sorry that the US sucks right now.
We had a great time on the beach.
I tried and tried but there was no wearing Summer out.
Good morning Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-24 16:43:53 UTC

A few more photos from our morning adventure. We both got some good exercise.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-24 16:40:41 UTC

Summer is a happy dog.
No doubt about it.
She brought us both hats this morning but there was drizzle and a cold wind so her pal decided to stay home and stay warm.
I bundled up and we were off.
Kids on the way to the first day of school waved to Summer and she wagged back.
The beach was foggy but fun.
Lots of running, fetching and digging happened.
By the time we started back the parking lot was full. Summer didn't mind the leash and refrained from barking at any of the people gathering to pick up trash.
A spectacular start to our day.
Summer says good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-23 19:09:45 UTC

#SilentSunday
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2026-08-23 04:55:27 UTC

Finally some sunsets instead of endless fog banks.
A perfect excuse for Summer and I to take advantage of the view from our new deck.
Summer is soft and warm and stays close as long as she gets a belly rub.
I wonder how many calories she burns wagging her tail all the time. Even in her sleep.
I am loving how not very exciting out lives are right now.
I could get used to predictable days instead of the stress of constantly working around unpredictable whatever's.
My husband is feeling stronger every day. With that he's more awake, more active and has opinions.
I am glad he's back.
He's the best good company.
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2026-08-22 20:09:10 UTC

It's been awhile since I've made the trek to the largest regional farmers market. It is worth the trip if I'm looking for something specific.
I found everything on my list and then some.
It is a good excuse to spend some quality time with my daughter besides.
We were planning to go look at lawnmowers afterwards but didn't think our veggies would survive the delay in a warm car.
The booths were beautiful and well stocked.
We had fun.
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2026-08-21 19:42:47 UTC

Our grandkids are off on an epic driving adventure from here to Washington State.
Byron was helping them pack.
#CatsOfMastodon
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2026-08-21 18:22:46 UTC

I promised a treat after our adventure.
Muffins and hot chocolate.
Breakfast of champions.
My husband likes to have a little muffin with his homemade raspberry jam.
He plops the tops back on the muffin and makes a jam sandwich.
Today is a fantastic day so far.
#Baking
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2026-08-21 00:26:52 UTC

I guess I won't be giving up my embroidery hobby any time soon.
It appears that someone purchased a dozen flour sack dishtowels to be shipped to me.
I know I didn't order them so if you did.
Thank you.
I do have enough to last me for the rest of my life now.
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2026-08-20 23:23:17 UTC

Summer got so excited that we were going to the transfer station to leave a deposit of various items that aren't recyclable that she ran to get some cardboard to deposit at the same facility.
She totally made us have to visit every station to recycle or not recycle instead of keeping it simple.
She loves the cardboard prep so much I couldn't say no.
Summer might be spoiled.
Maybe.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-19 20:22:18 UTC

Our dahlia's were seriously neglected but haven't given up. Thr orangey color one is from our collection. The other two are in my daughter's garden.
Today ours got some trimming and water.
Outside chores have moved up slightly on my priority list.
#BloomScrolling #Dahlias
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2026-08-19 16:53:26 UTC

The no Summer photos from this morning's adventure.
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2026-08-19 16:42:10 UTC

Summer was raring to adventure this morning.
She said that she heard that the trail wouldn't be as muddy as it was yesterday so she probably wouldn't get as dirty.
I asked her where she heard that and she said somewhere.
Hmmmm
I reminded her that she can't believe everything she finds on the internet.
The only way to know for sure was to check it out in person.
So away we went.
It appears Summer was a victim of misinformation.
Good morning, Mastodon.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-18 20:04:19 UTC

Tackled some of our outdoor chores.
Moving dirt around to level some of the uneven surface around our new deck.
Summer helped harvest corn and beets.
Much of our garden was neglected between my husband's illness and our water crisis.
I feel fortunate we are harvesting anything.
Summer is happiest when she is helping.
My husband sat in a chair and cleaned some corn for dinner tonight.
#Gardening
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2026-08-18 17:07:36 UTC

More Summer mud bath slash walk adventure this morning.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-18 00:05:29 UTC

Summer is a great comfort to both of us.
She took over the other end of the sofa while we watch the Tiger's game.
I might have to turn the volume up now that Summer decided it's nap time.
She is a snorezy dog.
So cute even when she snores.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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2026-08-17 03:26:45 UTC

Today was a quiet day for me.
Some might say I was wasting time.
I don't think we can really waste time.
It marches on no matter how productive we are.
I clearly was ready for a rest.
A few essential chores got done.
Mostly I read my book, did some embroidery and listened to my husband's views on current events. He is unapologetically liberal in his old age.
I just love that about him.
One more towel is finished.
Because my list of people who want towels has been reconstituted with new names I had to order more patterns. I might draw the next one and make it an original.
I feel way better than I did this morning.
I think this extra rest is a great way to start my week.
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2026-08-16 22:24:41 UTC

#SilentSunday
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2026-08-16 05:17:31 UTC

Life is settled some for us now that everything around the house that was broken is fixed.
Now we find our equilibrium again and look forward to enjoying our favorite time of year.
Quiet with no banging, clanging, coming and going of workers. As much as we appreciated the end results all of us are more relaxed now.
My husband has recovered much of his strength after his recent health scare. He is almost perky.
The support of the Mastodon community through our version of thick and thin has been a lifeline.
I share our best and worst of times.
You respond with encouragement, advice and genuine compassion.
We love you all.
Summer and I sat on the stairs of our new deck to watch the sunset. Actually I sat on the stairs and Summer sat on me. The best possible way to end today and look forward to tomorrow.
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2026-08-15 19:17:49 UTC

Summer and I have been cleaning non stop since dawn. We've vacuumed, mopped, steam cleaned her pal's recliner, washed rugs, cleaned the refrigerator and started reorganizing the mess in our garage.
She finally said enough.
It seems that as a card carrying member of the Very Good Dog Union she is entitled to a periodic rest and cuddle break. Her pal was ready to accommodate. I just have to go along so I took a break too.
My husband has been feeling well enough to move around to stay out of the way. It feels good to feel good so he tells us.
Hope all of our Mastodon friends are having a spectacular Saturday.
#Summer #DogsOfMastodon
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