Shelley (jessibud2) reads off her own shelves this year - fifth chapter

Tis the season - MY season!

From the Dead Feminists series of broadsides

Watchcat, ever vigilant

Boy in a beam

Ok, the welcome mat is out.

From my previous thread, because I really liked this:

Author Margaret Renkl is a guest contributor to the New York Times and I love her writing. Her recent essay talks directly to us LTers: The Joy of Finding People Who Love the Same Books You Do:

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/26/opinion/book-author-reader.html?campaign_id=3...

Happy new thread, Shelley!

Lovely pictures, Theo the curious cat, and Owen very relaxed in the sun :-)

Happy New Thread, Shelley. Lovely pictures indeed.

I agree, it’s a nice surprise to see “your” books in your neighbour’s bookcases.

Happy new one!

Happy new thread, Shelley.

I love the opening post - the russet rustle of leaves is something I miss terribly in this tropical season-less sojourn.

Happy new thread Shelley!

Happy Wednesday, Shelley. Happy New Thread! Love the toppers. I was able to record the Ken Burns series. I hope to dig into it soon.

Happy new thread!

Thanks, Anita, Ella, Anita, Paul, Madeline, Mark, Jim.

Paul, some leaves are starting to turn here. The leaves on my burning bush are just beginning to redden. :-)

Phew, indeed!

Wordle 466 6/6 adieu, quoth, furry, blurb, spurn, usurp

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Better.
Wordle 467 3/6 adieu, brand, scald

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Excellent Wordling! Took me five.

Karen O

>16 jessibud2:, Yep, excellent Shelley; >17 klobrien2: took me 5, too.

Karen and Kathy, you are both so kind to ignore yesterday's wordling! lol Not a bomb, but still...
;-)

>3 jessibud2:, >4 jessibud2: Love, love, love the kitties.

>20 laytonwoman3rd: - Thanks, Linda. Owen is so much more relaxed these days. And if I could only teach Theo to bark at intruders.... ;-)

Hi Shelley! *smooch* for a happy new thread.

Happy new thread, Shelley!

Thanks, Richard and Meg.

Another surprising start to the day:

Wordle 468 3/6 adieu, chock, scorn

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Hi Shelley my dear, Happy New Thread and what lovely photos of Theo and Owen. Sadly due to the lack of rain since March, many trees have shed leaves that were crinkled and brown and so we will not see the lovely Autumnal show of colour that we normally see. The week has been quite cool and today it is cold and wet.

Hope all is good with you my dear and we both send love and hugs dear friend.

Hi, John. Thanks and same good wishes to you and Karen.

Well, I finally heard from 2 friends in Florida. One friend lives in Naples, Florida, 6 miles inland. Other than power out for a short time, they and their house were unscathed. He told me that north of them, though, a total disaster. The other friend lives in Tampa and they were told to evacuate but they shuttered up and hunkered down and didn't go. The hurricane actually hit south of them so they lost power but had no damage.

My good friend in Nova Scotia also escaped Fiona's wrath last week. She lives in Dartmouth and wasn't in the line of the hardest hit areas. Breathing a huge sigh of relief.

Please remind me to never complain about a little snow. Ever again. I am incredibly grateful to live where I do and that will never change.

>26 jessibud2: Please remind me to never complain about a little snow. Ever again.

Ain't that the truth. My sister moved from Chicago to Florida last year (we're still asking why, but that's a different story). She lives just southwest of Orlando. She said the wind and the rain were incredible, and she didn't sleep at all Wed. night. They had an 8 foot palm tree (thin!) fall on the side of their house, but didn't seem to do any damage. Nor did they lose power or get water in the house. So they were extremely lucky.

The worst part about major snowstorms is the possibility of losing power (and therefore heat), shoveling out and the time it takes to clear the roads. But it's rare to lose everything you own in a snowstorm, like you can in a hurricane, tornado, flood or fire.

I love shovelling, Kathy. My front driveway is short and flat so it's never too difficult. I sometimes do my neighbour across the street's as well and hers is sloped, making it a bit harder but it's just something I always loved doing, especially at night, when it's quiet and sparkly. Still, I'll take snow over other weather extremes any day.

I found today's a bit trickier:

Wordle 469 5/6 adieu, whale, blame, lease, leave

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The weather on the eastern seaboard has been a cause for concern in the past week. The weather on the west coast is a totally different story - no rain in sight.

>30 Familyhistorian: - It's crazy, isn't it, Meg. It's always been thus, though, as if, weather-wise at least, we live in different countries.

Wordle 470 4/6 adieu, prize, whine, twine

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>32 jessibud2: It was a 3day for me...four letters out of two guesses? How could I not?!

Happy hurricaneless week ahead, Shelley.

Happy new thread!

Thanks, Richard and Rhonda.

I messed up on guess number 4, forgetting about one of the letters.

Wordle 471 5/6 adieu, joint, briny, wring, sting

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>3 jessibud2: Laughing right out loud at your cat's need to find the sunshine.

>36 Whisper1: - Thank you, Linda. They really are funny sometimes. Also, I realized that yesterday was exactly 2 years to the day that I brought my boys home. They have come a long way and have settled in nicely, for the most part, but are by far the most challenging pets I have ever had. Still, I am happy to have them!

Lots of options but at least I got it!

Wordle 472 5/6 adieu, quoth, couch. rough, bough

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Morning, Shelley. I just wanted to let you know, I am about halfway done with "The US and the Holocaust". Funny, when you think you knew plenty about the Jews and WWII, Burns proves you wrong. This has been excellent. America- "Home of the free"! B.S.!! We have been pretty rotten from the beginning.

Just made it!

Wordle 473 6/6 adieu, cloak, tramp, mamba, marry, marsh

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>40 jessibud2: That is the important thing—you made it! Yay!

Karen O

Happy New Thread, Shelley. I know, it’s nice not to have to worry about hurricanes, wildfires or mudslides, and to have plenty of water. I’ll try to remind myself of that when it’s 30 below wind chill and the snow is deep.😀

>40 jessibud2: Your streak is alive...nothing else really matters.

Happy endweek. *smooch*

>37 jessibud2: Granddaughter Kayla has a ferret and a kitten that is growing rapidly. Kayla slowly introduced them to each other. Now, their playing antics are pretty funny. Kayla's friend stayed overnight. She awoke Kayla by telling her that the cat had the ferret's head in his mouth, and she was dragging the ferret across the room.
I've watched their play. The Ferret usually is the one who starts the playing. He can hold his own.

I call them Kayla's zoo. She loves them, takes care of them and they love her very much. She has a tendency to have anxiety attacks. I note that the pets calm her.

>39 msf59: - Mark, I missed you up there. I know you are on the road and I hope your trip is great. The Burns documentary gives lots of food for thought and, to me, highlighted how much some things haven't changed a bit. Terrifying and sad. But he sure does his homework and lays out the truth. I expanded on those comments in my last thread.

>41 klobrien2:, >43 richardderus: - - Right, Karen and Richard. It was close today, too. Way too many possibilities!

>42 jnwelch: - Hi, Joe. Absolutely.

>44 Whisper1: - I believe that pets are made to comfort their humans and we all learn from one another, don't we, Linda? My friend had a large standard poodle and a tiny Cornish Rex cat. The cat used to grab onto the dog's leg and he ran all over the house with her attached. I have a photo of it somewhere. It was hilarious.

Another close shave!

Wordle 474 5/6 adieu, clock, blown, floor, sloth

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Early Thanksgiving wishes, Shelley. It feels surreal to be thinking of Thanksgiving dinner when our weather is still summer like. Have a good one!

Hi Meg. Our last couple of days have been gorgeous. It hit 22C today! But that will end shortly and the highs for the next few days (and the foreseeable future, I expect), will barely hit double digits. I spent HOURS today trying one last time to *fix* my front lawn and garden: raking, cleaning up, putting down special *repair* fertilizer, then nutrient-rich soil, then seeds, all blended for fall repair, then watering.

I have been in this house for 21 years and it took just 2 winters for the so-called landscape company our complex uses to totally destroy the lawn and a portion of my garden by oversalting in the winter. Anyhow, long story short, this is the 4th and final time this year that I am do *repair* work on it and, with or without permission, I will be doing my own shovelling and salting from this point forward. I will not allow them near my place. I am sure I will have a fight on my hands because that is not the way things are done in a *condo corp* but guess what? Time for a change and for this homeowner, it will be the way things will be done. Anyhow, it was warm, slightly overcast so no beating sun, and the physical work felt good though I am sure to feel it tomorrow.

I also planted some crocus and narcissus bulbs (because the ones I always had never came up this year, possibly salt damaged? I made a quick run to the garden centre and when I got back, one had already been dug up! I thought squirrels didn't like those bulbs! I quickly sprinkled hen manure pellets (what I like to call chicken shit) because I am told they hate that smell. We shall see what surprises tomorrow will bring. You'd think I'd have given up by now but I am a sucker for punishment when it comes to the garden...

Back to square one for the streak. Too many options for this one and I just ran out of turns. C'est la vie...

Wordle 475 X/6 adieu, today, caddy, handy, sandy, randy

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>49 jessibud2: Oh, darn. I'm sorry, Shelley! *smooch*

>48 jessibud2: That’s the spirit, Shelley. I hope you can keep them off.
Crocus bulbs aren’t safe in my garden, lots of critters eat them. Narcissus bulbs on the other hand are supposed to be poisonous and inedible.

>49 jessibud2: oh yuck, one of those…

>49 jessibud2: That was one with way too many options, Shelley. Tough luck. xx

Happy Thanksgiving weekend!

>51 EllaTim: - Well, nothing further was amiss yesterday morning but to be sure, I bought some chicken wire and managed to put some of it over the spots where I planted the bulbs (hoping I remembered correctly) and secured it down with heavy rocks. If the squirrels get through this, then good for them and I will truly wave a white flag.

I also have a cold this week, first time since before covid began. Woke on Tuesday with it, mild sore throat, coughing, sneezing and a tad hoarse. But no other symptoms, no fever, no chills, no aches or pains, other than those from gardening. Still, I did take an at-home rapid covid test for 3 days in a row and, as I expected, no covid. I just don't sound like someone you'd want to stand too close to. I cancelled my clinic appointments this week (a nice break, to be honest) but I did go to my first yoga class on Thursday. I truly debated a long time about whether to register. But I miss it very much and I think it will be ok. It's in a very large gym space and registration was limited so that gives us lots of room to spread out. There were only 11 of us in all and we managed quite comfortably to have a ton of space between us. True, many were not masked; I was only one of 3 who were. But you can't force people to do the right thing and I can only be responsible for myself. I did feel I was being safe, masked and separate and I will continue to go unless I feel otherwise.

>52 PaulCranswick: - There were a lot of options, Paul. Today is another day, though!

>53 figsfromthistle: - You, too, Anita!

Better today, back to my default of 4:

Wordle 476 4/6 adieu, ingot, rigor, vigor

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I used a white netting on top of my newly planted tulip bulbs to keep away the squirrels from eating them. It did work.

>56 torontoc: - Cyrel, is it plastic netting? When I was at Canadian Tire, I saw something called plastic chicken wire but I ended up going with the heavier actual wire because I figured they could more easily chew through plastic if they felt I was keeping them from their treats. It was difficult to cut through, even with the wire cutters I also had to purchase but if it works, it will have been worth it. Time will tell.

I can't grow tulips. I tried, my first year here, only to come home from work one day to see stems with no flowers. And the damn squirrels don't even eat the flowers, they just fling them around the garden in pieces. Just mean!

My cat sitter sent me this, asking: Theo?
My reply: Theo !! :-)

Hi Shelley my dear, Happy Thanksgiving Weekend dear friend.

Lovely kitikat pictures Shelley.

Sorry to hear about the cold. So far I've been cold free since I gave up commuting to work.

>58 jessibud2: hehe.

My netting is white plastic and did the trick when my bulbs were just budding in the spring.

Sorry about the cold, that's no fun. But great that you got to yoga.

>48 jessibud2: Our highs have been in the 20s most of this month. The high was 26C today. The unfortunate part is that creeks are drying up and it's spawning season.

Were you watching Jeopardy yesterday? I thought you would have got a kick out of the answer to the country for the most lakes and rivers.

>58 jessibud2: You made me laugh!

Thanks, Rhonda. Another few days and this cold will be done.

I think it only got up to 11C here today. Definitely fall.
Ha, Meg. Yes, I knew the answer and shouted it out!
And yes, that's my boy, ;-)

>59 johnsimpson:, >60 Caroline_McElwee: - Thanks John and Caroline. I missed you both up there.

>61 torontoc: - You are lucky, Cyrel.

Tough year or two, Shelley, but I do want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving weekend.

Thank you, Paul.

Not a word I would have expected from the NYT, to be honest.

Wordle 477 4/6 adieu, oddly, wordy, howdy

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My wordling is yo-yoing. From days of 2s to bombs and 6s.

Wordle 478 6/6 adieu, prone, lemon, endow, envoy, enjoy

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>69 jessibud2: Happy with a 6day, I hope, since it keeps the streak alive. Squirrels seem to dislike tulips on some strange squirrel-offending grounds. They did the same to our tulips.

I hate squirrels.

Way too early in the morning for me to be doing this, I completely missed that I had the same letter in the wrong spot for 3 turns. Sheesh. Still, better than the last few days

Wordle 479 4/6 adieu, daily, laird, valid

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>58 jessibud2: Love it!

Morning, Shelley. We are back. Hope all is well.

Wordle 480 6/6 adieu, click, stoic, yogic, tonic, ionic

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>73 jessibud2: Yay! Streak stays alive! *smooch*

Wordle 482 5/6 adieu, clock, plonk, gloom, floor
Bombed yesterday

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>75 jessibud2: Seems a few of us got fives today…much preferable to a bomb, that’s for sure. I LOVE your third word! That’s one of the auxiliary pleasures of Wordle, the guessing of “fancy” or unusual words in the service of auditioning letters, IMHO.

Have a great weekend.

Karen O

Hi, Shelley! Just stopping by to see how you’re doing. Hope you’re completely recovered from your cold. I’ve been sick all week with what sounds like a nastier version of what you had, but I’m feeling better today.

>58 jessibud2: Haha, love that!

Happy Friday and hope you have a lovely weekend!

>58 jessibud2: Shelley, I laughed right out loud at this funny image! Thanks for posting it. I hope your cold is finished and that you can enjoy a lovely weekend.

>76 klobrien2: - Thanks, Karen. What you say is true, about *auditioning* words. For me, it's fun but it's also sometimes sheer desperation, lol!

>77 Storeetllr:- Hi Mary. The cold is mostly gone but still mildly lingering. I did manage to get my 5th covid shot, though and next week, I have an appointment for my flu shot. Hope you are improving daily!

>78 Whisper1: - Yes, Linda, that's my boy! Naughty as ever too but hard to stay mad at such a personality. Hope you are doing well.

Wordle 483 5/6 adieu, snack, latch, match, catch Alphabet soup day:

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My reading continues to plague me. Why is it, some years, I just choose such good books and other years (like this one), nothing holds my interest? I have a basket full of books I have started and not finished. Some books, I will just DNF and move them out. The basket holds books that initially started off well, and I mean to get back to them, but for the moment, I am just not feeling the love. I keep feeling the need to pick up something else. Of course, this year, I am just more distracted than usual, I'm sure that's part of it but I am still waiting for the book that will grab me and not allow me to let go till it's done. Hasn't really happened yet.

Sigh. This will definitely be one of the worst reading years in recent memory for me. C'est la vie, I guess.

I have been more relentless than usual in culling. In addition to dropping some books into Little Free Libraries, I have also been bringing books down to the Toronto Reference Library, as I recently discovered that they take donations for their used bookstore, where they sell everything for one or 2 dollars, with all proceeds going to literacy programs. At least something good from all those books I am not reading...

Yeah, I’ve been having less-than-great reading years last year and this one. Volume is down both years, and I feel like I’m just not as excited by the books I’ve read. I’m mostly chalking it up to getting really busy at work and having less time to sit and enjoy my reading. Hopefully, I can get some balance back - hope your reading picks up too!

>82 drneutron: - Exactly. Being retired, I can't blame my slump on work, but mostly, it's just RL this year, I guess, and lack of patience. I used to be able to plow through, hoping a book will improve as I get further into it, as does happen. Lately, though, I just can't be bothered. And it sure isn't for lack of what to choose.

Balance to us both!

Should have got it in 3 because I didn't pay attention to a letter in guess #2. Still, better than the last several days.

Wordle 484 4/6 adieu, drape, evade, spade

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My turn #3 forgot a letter but it did eliminate a few others so I am happy with the 4, which is my usual average.

Wordle 485 4/6 adieu, prize, whelk, stein

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I have had a reading slump these past months as well. I don't know -I have great books on my pile but..... I am starting to read but slowly. I was in Ottawa this weekend and picked up two really interesting books- one a gift from my Ottawa family and the other part of a silent auction at the conference I was attending. ( Painters Eleven The Wild Ones of Canadian Art and Above the Dreamless Dead World War 1 in Poetry and Comics.)

>85 jessibud2: Yay for a normal, streak-continuing day. I'm not in a reading slump, but have unpleasant memories of such spells that twinge in empathy for y'all undergoing these torture sessions.

Wordle 486 5/6 adieu, prime, being, evict, exist

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I just got my first of the season dark-eyed junco, under my feeders. Yes, they are harbingers of winter but they are nice to have around for the next several months.

>88 jessibud2: I got luckier than you...I got 4 of the 5 letters in my first two! And your #4 didn't occur to me, so I made it in 3.

Have a great week ahead, SHELLEY.

Thanks, Richard.

It's been awhile since I had a 3 day! Maybe this was a lucky day for me. It's wordle game #487. 487 was my address, growing up. :-). Yeah, I am easily amused....

Wordle 487 3/6 adieu, unify, quirk

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I didn't deserve to even get this at all, the way I screwed up in guesses 2 and 3, with that middle letter.

Wordle 488 5/6 adieu, chide, weird, debit, denim

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>92 jessibud2: Thank goodness Fortuna doesn't care, she just passes out the luck any old how.

Happy Thursday, Shelley!

Wordle 489 4/6 adieu, chore, trove, grove

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A little health update and maybe a rant or two (just skip all this if you are not in the mood).

My jaw pain clinic visits are nearly done; only 3 left, thank goodness. Overall, I would have to say it has helped. I would say maybe a 60-70% improvement and that is nothing to scoff at. Not turning to acetaminphen on a daily basis alone is worth it. I do exercises for my jaw and mostly, they seem to help. Even though I am very fortunate to have my insurance cover 80% of the cost, it has still been an expensive few months. Still, any reduction in pain is good. Another unexpected benefit from all this, though it makes sense, is that my intense migraines have lessened in frequency. Neck, head, jaw, all connected.

I can't remember if I mentioned the eye issues. I think I did. I had a laser procedure about 4 weeks ago to correct what is called *narrow angles*, which will hopefully prevent glaucoma. That went fine, I did the drops for a week after, as required. Then, last week, I started to notice that my left eye (my good eye, my reading eye) was blurry. I cleaned my glasses but still felt I was leaning in to screen and books. I called and today I saw the doctor. Bottom line, I need cataract surgery, sooner than later. He did say that he saw cataracts back then but they were not yet of concern. The change in the left eye, though, was significant enough to need the surgery soon. Now, I know that almost everyone I know who has had it says it's fine and all good. But I am a chicken and a worrier. Still, I will book it. I need to speak to one of his technicians who will explain the different options re lenses. The basic is free (ie, covered by provincial health insurance) but the better one is not cheap. Sigh. $$$. Again.

Money seems to be pouring out of my account like water lately. A few weeks ago I was sitting in my dining room eating dinner. I generally don't look up so why I did just then, I have no idea. There, on the ceiling, was a lovely wet spot, about the size of a plate. Long story short, I called in a plumber ($$$). He put a tarp down to cover the floor and furniture, and as he cut a hole in the ceiling, water poured into the bucket he held. He said it was the upstairs toilet and had probably been there a long time. He fixed the toilet (broken flanges and the seal was no good, as if I understood any of it), and helped to tape a large cardboard over the hole in the dining room ceiling (because of course, plumbers don't do ceiling repairs). This was mainly to keep Theo from exploring. He can easily jump on top of the credenza and an open hole in the ceiling is basically a Theo magnet. I used books, boxes, and bricks to barricade his access until my handyman could come over this week to do the repair. I will post photos once I get them off my phone. I know my customers; two minutes after I let him out of the bedroom after the plumber left, he was up there poking around. But my resourcefulness worked. He was unable to reach the cardboard to pull it off.

Then there is the car. I went in for a simple oil change and maintenance check up and to get my snow tires put on. They found dry brakes and mucho dollars later, I was on my way home.

Maybe I should start buying lottery tickets again...

I am also planning to go to Montreal again in mid-November to see my mum. She isn't doing all that well. Currently, she has a c-difficle infection and today, they called me to tell me they noticed a rash on her back. That rash is how her lymphoma manifests. The doctor there will see her on Monday and depending on what he says, I may need to make an appointment for her to see the hematologist. I would rather be the one to take her, myself, rather than rely on her husband.

As Gilda Radner used to say, it's always something...

End of complaint session.

>95 jessibud2: That's quite a lot of stuff, and all of it worthy of complaining about, Shelley. It's not like you're just whinging your time away!

Thank goodness you thought ahead and kept the cat out of the ceiling. That would've been a nightmare.

*smooch* for a better, more relaxing weekend.

>96 richardderus: - Thanks, Richard. Yeah, I am not sure even shaking the treats box would have got him out of there had he managed to find his way in. A day without a Theo challenge is like a day without sunshine. Or something like that.

As for the weekend, I am in the middle of my annual accounting for my mother's finances and as to be expected, the good old Quebec government is full of surprises, changes and all manner of other fun stuff. Of course, being the Master Procrastinator that I am, I left it longer than I should have (after promising myself last year that would not happen), but I still have a few weeks before the deadline. Still, it makes me head ache and my nerves jangle. I am waiting till Monday to phone and try to speak to a human who speaks English in the Quebec govt. office. I don't think I can face it today. Here's something that will NEVER come out of my mouth: I love government paperwork. Pfft...

And I wonder why I can't concentrate enough to read...

*there there, pat pat* I feel your pain!

>95 jessibud2: All of what's going on sounds overwhelming, to say the least. Take it one day at a time (and one issue at a time if you can) and try to deal with the most pressing issue first. I'll write to you separately about the cataract surgery later (probably not on this thread because I have lots to say). Just know that the surgery itself, like someone told me before this chicken had her own cataract surgery..."It's nothing." I know you fear it, but there is no need to fear it. It's quick and painless.

>95 jessibud2:, >97 jessibud2: Sheesh, Shelley, when it rains it pours! But at least not in your dining room.... :) Relieved to hear your migraines are lessening, which is a good thing.

A perfect time to treat yourself to the new Tom Gauld book:

>99 SqueakyChu: - Thanks, Madeline. I know. Deep breaths... I want them to put me right out. I don't know if they do that.

Thanks, Kathy. I just placed a hold on it at my library. 8 copies, i22 requests ahead of me....:-)

>95 jessibud2: Last week I had my first Cataract Surgery.
Doctor recommended the Insurance covered lenses since there were only normal concerns.

I had tried to avoid this whole procedure,
but there are no natural cures and I could no longer drive at night, with day vision blurry and sometimes double.

Surgery turned out well though details make me wish I could arrange to AVOID the second surgery &
just compromise with One Great Eye and one sort of blurred one. (Not recommended by doctor or daughter.)

The same night of the surgery, I put on the eye shingle before bed and just glanced at Canadian painting
in our little Garden room - It was TOTALLY CLEAR! On the same day!

^^^^^^^^^^^^

So much for Pollyanna: I had thought Cataract Surgery was simple - you go in for 10-15 minute procedure,
then head out on your merry way to add more eyedrops.
Well, non, it's more complicated and will not be fully completed until the end of November.

Thanks, Marianne. I understand I have to have both eyes done but he will only do one at a time, the second one around a month after the first. My eyes are also very unusual. I have what's called mono-vision. My left sees only close, my right, only distance. He said that he could get them more balanced but it might be difficult for my brain to adjust since it is so used to the way it is now. This is how my eyes have always been, I can't remember my eyes being any other way. Which is why when my left eye (my reading eye) started feeling blurry last week, I was concerned. He assured me today that I wasn't imagining it so I guess I just need to suck up whatever anxiety I have and just get this done.

What's an eye shingle?

Shelley

I wish Will was still here. I could seek his advice. He was an excellent eye doctor. He knew a lot about the eye and the brain and how they worked together. From your post, I can gather that the eye doctor you visited is very good.

>102 m.belljackson: Marianne, you are very right in noting that cataract surgery is not as simple as imagined. I had cataract's removed in both eyes. Immediately, I could see much clearer, and the amount of brightness was stunning. I remember looking at the flowers in my garden and seeing them so very clear and beautiful.

That is a lot to cope with, Shelley.
Sending some (((hugs)))

>104 Whisper1: - Thank you, Linda. I don't think I knew that Will was an eye doctor!

>105 FAMeulstee: - Thank you, Anita. When it rains, it pours. This too shall pass, as they say... the one good thing is that the freezing rainy days of this past week are gone and it feels like summer again, at least for the next several days.

I had the cataract surgery on both eyes 10 days apart. The actual procedure takes no time at all- the prep seems to take longer ( a lot of squishing of eye drops that freeze your eye.) Let me know if you need a lift there or back.
I also had the angles procedure done a few years before the cataract surgery.
Take care

>103 jessibud2: An eye shingle is a little plastic piece with small holes.
It covers your eye and protects it from rubbing or an accidental poke
when you sleep or take a nap. It is held on with tape at two ends.
It's not uncomfortable.

You will need someone to drive you, sit in waiting room for your recovery,
and drive you home. A person to stay with you for the first 24 hours is also recommended.

Even better is someone to stay with you to give you the eyedrops which start 2 days
before the surgery and go on for four weeks, in the middle of which you get the Second Surgery
and another set of eyedrops...

>95 jessibud2: Oh no! It seems that all bad luck is piling on at the same time. Sorry to hear about the plumbing issues-glad you saw it before even more damage was done.

Dry brakes ? I never heard of that! I have heard of a wet brake and dry brake system on trucks/heavy machines..... I have to get my tires changes soon as well. I found a nail in my winter tire so I will have to get it patched up before installing. I am hoping that there is enough tread to get me through another season * crossing my fingers*

Anyhow, I hope you have a good weekend and that no other problems come your way!

>107 torontoc: - Thanks, Cyrel. That's very generous of you to offer. I can get there on my own by taking the bus. It's only 15 minutes away from my house. I am pretty sure my across the street neighbour will be able to pick me up to take me home. I think the doctor thought I"d have more time between the laser procedure and when I would need the cataract surgery. Now, my next main task will be Monday. I have quite a few phone calls to make. When I schedule the surgery will depend on when and if I need to take my mum to her hematologist. I will work my own appointment around that. He said the second eye should be done within 4 weeks of the first, if I remember correctly. I will call and speak to his technician on Monday to get the details straight. Did you go with the basic lens or the more expensive one? One friend told me to go with the better one if I can.

>108 m.belljackson: - Thanks for that explanation, Marianne. I will wait and see what the doctor tells me is necessary. The protocol here may be different from what you were advised.

>109 figsfromthistle: - Anita, I am not sure exactly what it was. Something was *dry*, is what I remember. Brake pads, maybe? I don't know. I should educate myself more, I know. I have been dealing with this same guy for years and I don't think he'd cheat me. I sure hope not, anyhow.

>101 jessibud2: What they do is tape your head (around your forehead) to the table so it won't move. They put in numbing eye drops. You're used to eye drops by now, right? Then they put something in front of your eyes so you think you're watching a video of amoeba moving around. About 10 or fifteen minutes later, they tell you they're done, and wheel you out to go home. Y ou wonder if they really did anything! It's that easy. Really.

>103 jessibud2: Actually you might be lucky to have this condition. A friend of mine who had recent surgery had the same condition you have. She got one monofocal lens for distance vision and one monofocal lens for close vision (as her eyes had always done this before so her brain was used to it). She now needs no glasses at all! She was very pleased with the results of her cataract surgery.

What I was going to tell you privately, I'll tell you now as others are writing about their surgeries. This is my opinion only. Please remember that. The safest and most proven lenses are the monofocal lenses (which are also the cheapest). The multifocal lenses are more expensive and don't always work well! I have had two friends (you know one of them!) who were less than happy with multifocal lenses. They are contraindicated in anyone with astigmatism, according to my ophthalmologist.

As for me, I got bilateral near monofocal lenses because I've always been able to see near (myopia) and needed glasses for distance. So I don't need glasses for reading still, but I do need them for driving and other distance vision. I was at the beach this past week and saw distance (and birds, jellyfish, clouds, even Jupiter in the sky!) clearly with my glasses. The funny thing was that I paid nothing for my glasses. The insurance covered the cost of the monofocal lenses, and I just used my old glass frames so I didn't have to buy new ones!

>108 m.belljackson: I did not need eyedrops prior to eye surgery. I had no difficulty putting in eyedrops myself afterward (and I've always hated and been squeamish about eyedrops). You get used to doing them.

I found the eye drops easy to put in. I got the better lens- I figured that it was worth it. I didn't drive for about 3-4 days after the surgery-so stock up with groceries! However I found that after the two surgeries I could see signs at night!( and I found colours more vivid)

I do always struggle with eye drops for some reason and my stubby little fingers were never particularly adept with contact lenses either.

>111 SqueakyChu: - Thanks, Madeline, for the input. Yes, I am more or less used to putting in drops. I started getting used to that when I need lubrication drops for dry eye, long before all this mess began. After the laser procedure, I had to put in drops 4 times a day for one week. I missed a few times and had to try again but I can do it. When he (doctor) does it (ie, someone else coming at my eye), it's not so easy but I think he is aware and getting used to me, by now! I am pretty sure I will continue with the monovision lenses as that is what I (and my brain) is used to and I am not looking for big changes, just better vision. I have worn glasses for so long, I think it might be odd NOT wearing them but we'll see. I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

>113 torontoc: - Interesting, Cyrel. My doctor did mention that the better lenses would give me better night vision. Right now (and for as long as I can remember), I don't have good night vision at all and seldom drive at night unless it's somewhere well-lit and I know well and don't need to rely on reading signs.

>114 PaulCranswick: - Eek. The very thought of contact lenses gives me chills. I have a hard enough time with drops, and it took me years to even be able to use mascara (which I stopped using years ago). Putting something INTO my eyes daily would never work for me. I admire those who can do it but I will never be one of them!

Wordle 490 5/6 adieu, thief, pries, spier, spiel

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>111 SqueakyChu: >115 jessibud2:

On the day of my surgery, I also scheduled the required Post-Op exam so people would not have to make another trip -
they're a few hours apart so I treated drivers to Lunch.

Great that you both can handle the drops on your own!
My fingers have arthritis so it would be a challenge.

Also, doctor advice down here is not to travel, lift anything heavy, or bend over below waist for the first seven days.

So far, it's all working well - with a slight bend to feed the neighbor's cat her morning Fancy Feast meal.

Hi Shelley. You do have a lot on your plate right now.
Wishing you success with dealing with the cataract surgery. At least you are getting lots of good information here.

A lot going on Shelley. Hopefully everything will settle down soon.

Yes, good luck with the cataract surgery. I had it a few years back, and it was quite easy for me. I had both eyes at once, which I am glad about, as it was time-saving. I think I had the basic surgery, I do still need glasses, but the letters don't dance on the page anymore.

>117 m.belljackson: - Yes, feeding the cats and cleaning the litter is not something I expect I can neglect. We'll see how that goes..

>118 EllaTim:, >119 Caroline_McElwee: - Thanks, Ella and Caroline. It sure does feel like things seem to fall all at once sometimes, doesn't it? This too shall pass. But until it does.....

>120 banjo123: - Thanks for your input, Rhonda. My doctor said he doesn't do both eyes at once and that is fine with me, to be honest.I think...

>121 jessibud2: My ophthalmologist said she would do both eyes at once if I wanted. I declined (and am glad I did, always fearful of complications). I chose to have them done two weeks apart, and I think that was perfect. I had to make a chart of the eye drops schedule, but that was not a problem.

For your cat feeding, squat down by bending your knees. Just don’t bend over at the waist. That waist-bending would increase your intraocular pressure.

>122 SqueakyChu: - I made myself a little chart for the drops schedule also, when I had the laser procedure, just so I wouldn't forget.

As for the bending, I always do that anyhow, because of lower back issues so that is second nature to me now. Still, I am sure he will give me a bunch of instructions. Do you have to sleep more elevated, ie, with more than one pillow? I am a back sleeper and I use one pillow. I hope that doesn't have to change too much because, as you can imagine, once you are asleep, you really don't have much control over what your body does while you sleep. We'll see what he says.

A bit too close for comfort.

Wordle 491 5/6 adieu, lucky, mousy, muggy, mummy. Screwed up a bit on the third guess but it turned out ok in the end.

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I was given an "eye patch" ( plastic and elevated) to wear at night for the first week or five days. ( I forget how many days) .And I think that I was told to sleep on my back.
I also was told to bring a pair of sunglasses that were wrap around to wear after the surgery. I got mine at the Sunnybrook Hospital pharmacy but I think that any pharmacy will have them.

>123 jessibud2: I kept my head elevated slightly and slept on my side without the surgery. The idea again is to prevent the intraocular pressure from going up.

>124 jessibud2: I had a "phew"day today, Shelley...but the streak is alive!

I'll take it:

Wordle 492 4/6 adieu, taunt, vault, fault

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Another bomb, geez. And given the condition out my window at the moment, you'd think this might have occurred to me. Damn.

Wordle 493 X/6 adieu, clock, poppy, sorry, hobby, boggy. The word, of course, is foggy

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>129 jessibud2: Oh, that *is* disappointing, Shelley. I got it today because the same conditions prevail here, so it snapped into my mind.

New streak starts tomorrow!

Just catching up and yikes! You’ve got a lot on your plate! I’ll be thinking of you and your mom and sending healing vibes.

Thanks, Richard and Mary.

So, getting in touch with my mother's hematologist has never been fun. Humans never answer so I always have to leave a message on a machine, and wait (usually quite awhile) for a call back. I did that yesterday so was surprised when I got home today from my own appointment, to find a return call on my answering machine. Yay, except what message did the receptionist give me? She told me that she sent a requisition to the dermatologist who will determine if a biopsy needs to be done, then I could come see the hematologist after. Yes, they are both located in the hospital but she did not give me the name or the location of the dermatologist. And she did not give me a date. I don't imagine I can just walk in without an appointment. All this, despite the fact that on the detailed message I left yesterday, I reminded them that I am in Toronto and I need to book a train ticket in order to go to Montreal to take my mother to these appointments. I can't book a ticket until I know when HER appointment is. And I can't leave it to the very last minute. So, I called back this afternoon and left another message on their machine, explaining this (without letting the anger and frustration come through my voice. I hope). And now, I wait again. And of course, I can't book my cataract surgery until I know when I will be in Montreal and when I will be home.

I really really miss the days, back in prehistoric times, before answering machines. When you phoned a number and spoke to a human. What a concept...

To be honest, right now I just feel like throwing something. I think I will go continue with some yard cleanup instead. And yes, I will take the phone out with me, just in case...

>132 jessibud2: Sounds very frustrating Shelley. Yes, to doing some good yard cleanup to vent! Breath in, breath out, and give those leaves a good thrashing (or whatever).

>133 EllaTim: - Thanks, Ella. At least there is progress in the yard. And with rain expected this afternoon, not a moment too soon.

Wordle 494 5/6 adieu, bunch, stout, clout, flout

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RBG:

https://www.npr.org/2022/10/26/1131571073/ruth-bader-ginsburg-stamp-usps-supreme...

>135 kac522: - Oh! Thanks for this, Kathy! How very cool!

>136 jessibud2: Once in a great while, this goofy government of ours comes up with something meaningful.

By the way, I swear, after Trudeau put a temporary halt to handguns, I am SO ready to move to Canada. But I don't think I meet the criteria.

Sadly, it's getting a lot of airplay but I doubt it will do much to truly decrease the number of shootings. I am so over Trudeau but the honest truth is, there is no one else out there who is better to replace him and the far right nutbars are coming out of the woodwork everywhere (Alberta, Quebec, for example).

Not sure you'd really want to live here but you are very welcome to visit, any time! :-)

Back to a 4 day.

Wordle 495 4/6 adieu, panko, latch, carry

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>139 jessibud2: Yay for a 4day that extends your streak!

*smooch*

What a lot of things you have to deal with, Shelley. No wonder your reads aren't calling to you. I really appreciate all the info about cataract surgery. It's something that I'll need to have done sooner or later.

>140 richardderus: - A bit tougher today, Richard but the streak is intact.

>141 Familyhistorian: - After girding myself and preparing for a confrontation today - I truly hate confrontations and usually avoid them at all costs but I decided yesterday that I would no longer phone the opthamologist's office daily and leave messages no one responds to; instead, I would get into my car and go there, in person, and simply not leave until someone could answer the questions I need answered before making a decision re the cataract surgery - well, whaddya know? I got a phone call late yesterday afternoon from the person I was supposed to speak to. Turns out, she needs to speak to the doctor and won't see him until Monday but she promised to call me Tuesday, at the latest. She told me they were booking into December, January. I told her that I had understood that he wanted it done sooner rather than later, as in, the next few weeks. I said that if that's what he feels is necessary, there must be a reason and that's when she said she'd speak to him. I also found an email addy for the receptionist at my mother's hematologist's office and sent her an email yesterday morning. She also phoned me back in the afternoon and said basically the same thing she had written me, which is, not much. She said we had to wait for the dermatologist to call with an appouintment date. I asked her to call them and explain the situation because if I called, I would never get through. She said she would and would get back to me. After that, I decided that I will wait one more week and if there is no date, I will just go myself to visit my mother and leave it to her husband to take her and deal with it. Which is the last thing I want to do but I need to book the train and my petsitters and I am done being aggravated with the world. So that is what I will do. Geez.

Wordle 496 5/6 adieu, blare, cheat, speak, sneak

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>143 jessibud2: Because my first word delivered four letters, I got a 3day as my Friday gift from the Great Wordle Monster.

>142 jessibud2: Heading toward the office was a great idea!

Since my eyes would prevent me from doing that,
I wrote a letter to my original Eye Doctor asking him to help me get an earlier appointment than the
scheduled middle of February when we can be stranded in our rural driveway.

He intervened to be sure I could resume taking my daughter to appointments!

Wishing you the same Good Luck!

If your doctor understands how much harder it would be for you to get rides in winter
as well as to not have the surgery all complete before you can resume caregiving for your Mother,
that would be kind.

Phew, indeed, especially after such a stupid mess-up at turn #2

Wordle 497 6/6 adieu, chive, tires, piney filet, libel

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>146 jessibud2: That's a streak-extending *phew* so yay!

I'm amazed that word #4 is one they accepted. I've got it squirreled away for future use. Thanks, Shelley.

>145 m.belljackson: - I should know something by Tuesday, Marianne. Just what the something is, remains to be seen.

>146 jessibud2: - I have tried plenty of words that were not acceptable to the Wordle gods, Richard, trust me. I will try anything, however obscure. In fact, sometimes I think the more obscure, the more likely the NYT is to throw it at us. Ya never know...

Another phew!

Wordle 498 6/6 adieu, patch, tarot, wants, warty, waltz Another misstep in guess #5 as I should have noticed a letter used had already been rejected. I need to pay closer attention!

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Working with a doctor's office can be frustrating. I hope you hear back as promised and the news is good.

Mine was almost as bad today: Adieu, story, thank, fatal, waltz

Wordle 498 5/6

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I know I am an outlier in that I am not a big fan of Halloween, but I do love the Cake Wrecks website for the sheer beauty and creativity. Here is today's entry. These are some cakes!

http://www.cakewrecks.com/home/2022/10/30/sunday-sweets-spooky-elegant-halloween...

>151 jessibud2: The only way I can tolerate Halloween is to know that it puts off a lot of Christmas stuff and music in the stores and on TV until November 1. If we didn't have Halloween, it'd be Christmas in August.

I have seen Christmas stuff alongside Halloween stuff here for ages, Kathy. Nothing to do but roll your eyes and move on.

Back to a 4 day, finally. At least for the moment:

Wordle 499 4/6 adieu, among, artsy, aptly

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>150 Storeetllr: - Oops, missed you up there, Mary, sorry. Yes, my patience for answering machines and doctor's offices has run rather thin in recent times. When I am sitting in a waiting room, it seems the patients on the phone take priority over those of us sitting there in person. Yet, when I call, and only get a machine (every time), I wonder why I can never be a priority phone patient. I sometimes think I will never understand the world and how it works (or doesn't)

>151 jessibud2:, >152 kac522: I will join your club. I have never enjoyed Halloween, even as a kid. Our porch lights will be off this evening.

>151 jessibud2: I tried to skip Halloween this year, but I succumbed. It's harder to skip since I have a Little Free Library. I always worry about vandalism. We put a light in it (again, because our previous light was completely taken, hardware and everything!), and I filled it yesterday with only children's books. I bought a teeny pumpkin to carve. I put black whiskers and dots on my N95 mask so I can give out candy tonight. I would miss eating the leftover chocolate after Halloween if I didn't do this...although I have been sneaking in some pre-Halloween snacks for myself already. :D

>154 jessibud2: No worries, Shelley. And I’m right there with you, pondering the vagaries.

I used to enjoy Halloween. I still like to see the kids in costume and enjoy giving out candy. I just don’t like dressing up in costume. Heck, most of the time, I don’t like dressing at all. PJs all day!

>157 Storeetllr: Dress in your PJs to answer the door. Your costume is a sleepwalker! :D

Jeopardy fans: tonight's the night it all begins. The Tournament of Champions. Here is the breakdown:

https://www.tvinsider.com/1067711/jeopardy-tournament-of-champions-guide-2022/

I do have my favourites and I think it will be a nail-biting 2 weeks. Who else will be watching with me? ;-)

>159 jessibud2: We're definitely watching. I was disappointed to see Ryan eliminated last night. He was a favorite in regular play.

Me, too, Linda, I was disappointed. I also did like Megan and actually though she was going to win it. I found Maureen seemed rather bored but maybe that is just her style.

The game I really want to see (and maybe the structure is set up this way so it *could* happen) is Matt, Amy and Mattea playing each other. Now THAT would be something!

Ha! I just used this word recently in a guess.

Wordle 500 4/6 adieu, miner, lines, piney

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>162 jessibud2: I didn't even think it was a word, but I guessed it, because nothing else made sense!

Wordle 500 5/6

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"Matt, Amy and Mattea playing each other." I'd pay to see that match-up!

>164 laytonwoman3rd: - No kidding, me too! :-)

So, I just went to my opthalmologist's office because I could not get through on the phone. Turns out they don't have a receptionist (!!) and when I called, I got the message that the answering machine was full, no more room for messages. That was it. I got into the car and drove over. So frustrating. Anyhow, I have an appointment to get my eye measured this Friday, and the surgery will be in February. All this could have been resolved in one phone call. Instead, I have been chasing them for 2 weeks. Grrr. And of course, still no word from my mother's doctors. I am just going to book my train and pet sitter and screw it. If we suddenly get an appointment and I can't be there, I will just tell my brother that he will need to take a couple of days off his work and drive up to take her. I can't do EVERYTHING, all the time. I don't ask much (anything) of him but she is his mother too, and it's time he stepped up. Sorry if I sound sexist but it's such a guy thing that he just doesn't consider things like this. He just assumes that I will deal with everything and take care of everything. And frankly, I'm at the end of my rope lately.

Sorry, rant over...

>166 jessibud2:

Feel free to rant. Lots of stuff on your plate. Hoping for the best outcome for each issue. Keep us posted.

{{{hugs}}}

>166 jessibud2: If you are at the end of your rope, Shelley, your brother should step up.
We are here to read your rants. And all other things about your life, books, cats, family etc. :-)

((((hugs))))

Thanks, Madeline and Anita. I booked my train and the petsitters today.

At least, this:
Wordle 501 3/6 adieu, piece, inept

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Well, well, whaddya know?

Wordle 502 2/6 adieu, aloud

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>170 jessibud2: ...I *was* pleased about my 3day...until now.

*sniff*

:-P

>166 jessibud2: That is frustrating - both of the situations. Yes, feel free to rant away. I'm here for you. Also, I agree that it's time your brother stepped up and took on some of the responsibilities. It would be nice if he just did it without being asked, but with some people that's just not going to happen.

>170 jessibud2: I forgot to finish Wordle this morning, and now I know what the answer is. Waaah. Yes, I got it in two, but only because I saw the answer on your post. (I generally make sure I finish Wordle before coming to LT lest I inadvertently come across the answer.) (The Spoiler feature doesn't work on the old sloooowwww laptop I'm using.) (Grrrr.)

Well, the *brother* update didn't turn out as I had hoped but I can't say I was surprised. He says he gets paid by the hour and if he doesn't work, he doesn't get paid. He works at a bank and though I know nothing about how banks pay, especially in the States (he lives in Vermont), I would have thought he was on contract. Of course, I feel guilty for expecting him to give up pay but not too guilty because he isn't going to do it anyhow, or even try. Meantime, I told him to forget it. If the doctor's office decides to ever call me back with an appointment, I will either have to make another trip or call on her husband to take her. Which I have done but try not to unless absolutely necessary. I despise the man and try to limit my contact with him at all costs. But I'll do it if I have to.

Sorry, Richard and Mary, about Wordle. Meg got it in ONE today so there is that! lol.

Thanks for that added support, Mary. It just gets a bit much sometimes. My brother and I have always been as opposite in personality as one could imagine. I always used to joke that the only thing we had in common were our parents. When my mother first got sick, in 2018, he was very supportive and we were on the same page all the way. But in recent years, he has reverted back to his old self and there are times I feel as if I were an only child, for all that he helps or participates. Oh well. It is what it is. It won't last forever but for as long as it does, I make my own choices (and apparently, so does he).

>173 jessibud2: With regard to how banks pay in the States, both my mother and my father-in-law worked in banks. They were officers, and they were on salary, so time off was a bit flexible. However, tellers, secretaries, and other staff were hourly, and had limited time off unless they were willing to take unpaid leave. My information is fairly old now, but I'm guessing not much has changed.

>174 laytonwoman3rd: - Thanks for that, Linda. I never thought my brother was lying to me but I was a bit shocked about that info. Maybe it's the same here, I have no idea. I feel for him and have never asked him to take time off work before. Anyhow, I got an email just this morning that my mother's doctor could possibly see me the week I am there so that would be good. No word on the second appointment that was supposed to happen together with this first one but it's the first one I am more concerned about so it maty work out after all. Just way too much stress going on right now for me to be a bit more patient. Bad Shelley

Wordle 503 5/6 adieu, clock, thorn, ghost, photo

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>176 jessibud2: It's a funny thing. I'm sure the 5days are sent to us by an evil gawd to torment us with What Might Have Been...whereas a 6day is just *whew* and a 4day is a minor triumph.

You are probably right, Richard. It's a 4 day for me today (and I changed my starting word!!)

Wordle 504 4/6 meaty, ramen, cream, dream

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Wordle 505 5/6 meaty, trade, stage, stake, stale

New starter wordy for me and so far, it's been good. Today's nearly turned into an alphabet soup affair but at least, not a bomb!

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I am finding it harder and harder to be on the computer. My left eye seems to be getting cloudier and more difficult to read with, especially on a screen. With a book, I can bring it closer to my face but with the laptop, I need to lean in and it's just not comfortable. Much as I am anxious and dreading the surgery, I wish it was sooner because this current situation is stressful. It's scheduled for Feb. 7. I guess that's the soonest available date.

Can you ask your doctor to let you know if they have any cancellations so that you can have the surgery earlier?

I did ask. Fingers crossed...

Sorry about all the stress Shelley. I'm so blessed with my siblings who took a share when our parents were around.

I think it is tough being paid by the hour rather than contracted (I did it for 15 years), but unless you are young and have little savings, I don't think it should be an excuse not to share some of the load.

Thanks, Caroline. My mum is not doing well at the moment and I am hoping I don't need to go sooner than my scheduled time next Monday.

Wordle 506 6/6 meaty, weird, helio, serif, genie, begin

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Morning, Shelley. We are back and I am very slowly making the rounds. How have the feeders been? Have you ever seen or heard of Evening Grosbeaks? These Canadian residents are making a very rare appearance in Chicagoland, which happens every 5-8 years. I have seen them on my winter trips to Minnesota but have not spotted them here yet. Fingers crossed. Beautiful birds.

Hi Mark. My friend had an evening grosbeak at her feeder and sent me a pic, very excited. I have never seen one at mine, though. I did have my first junco yesterday, though. Mostly, the most frequent visitors have been the nuthatches, sparrows, house finches and cardinals. Haven't seen any goldfinches yet. They usually overwinter and have been frequent visitors in the past. I had a fantastic hairy woodpecker yesterday. I took a ton of pics but only a few came out. Usually it's the downy who visits so this hairy was a treat. Man, they are BIG!

The first couple of weeks of putting out my feeder were great but sadly, the pigeons have got word of it. I am up to 3 at a time, though usually it's only 2. I keep throwing things at them (pine cones, small pebbles) hoping they will not feel safe here and move on. My aim (and arm) will never be good enough to hit them. I just want to make them nervous. So far, I'm batting zero....;-p

I hope you get a chance to see the grosbeak. Keep checking. Bummer about the pigeons but hooray for the hairy woodpecker. I have only had them in my backyard, on just a few occasions.

>184 jessibud2: Whew!

Another not-a-bomb day:

Wordle 507 6/6 meaty, brief, those, spend, specs, spell

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What a great Jeopardy game today! They were quite funny and it was nice to see the host let loose as well :)

It was a fun game tonight! I had thought that Mattea might be overpowered by the speed and aggressiveness of Matt and Amy but I was quite wrong! Matt seemed rather out of it, I thought. But their senses of humour came through and there were quite a few hilarious moments! I wonder if any of it was scripted...

Wordle 508 5/6 meaty, amply, fancy, bawdy, rainy

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I only did so well because it fits today and popped into my head right away:

Wordle 508 3/6

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>191 jessibud2: I'm sure the bit about the category with numbers (the correct answers being the contestants' and Ken's winning streak totals) was scripted. But what was really funny was that Ken jumped his cue and did the bit before the last clue was selected. I think Matt was having fun by not competing too hard...and possibly sandbagging for his upcoming finals appearance. I'll bet he fooled no one.

>192 jessibud2: It was a 3day for me today, and I was v v pleased!

*smooch* for medical-professional good outcomes

>193 kac522: - I did mess up on one turn there, Kathy but my concentration is next to zip these days. That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it!

> 194 - I think you are right, Linda. Especially when they beeped out Ken saying *shit*, that's when I thought it was scripted. I thought also, after Mattea said something was her favourite (song?) at age 4 and a turn or 2 later, Amy said something else was her favourite whatever from age 27, it sounded a bit scripted to me but unless they knew the answers ahead of time, I'm not sure it could have been. Both are pretty quick on the draw anyhow so it could well have been just them, being funny and clever. And yeah, Matt is not a great actor and *sandbagging* is a great description of what he was probably doing...;-)

>195 richardderus: - Thanks, Richard. At this point, any not-a-bomb day is fine with me. As for medical professionals, don't hold your breath. I am so over them already. It boggles the mind (my mind, anyhow), how anything as supposedly simple as making an appointment should take over 3 weeks and it's still not a done deal. And if by some miracle, I actually get the appointments, I am not sure I am prepared to drag my mother out to them. She just tested positive for the second time in about a month, for a c-difficile infection and she is quite weak. Instead of going next week, for her birthday, I have changed my plans and am leaving this Friday. I have thought about what benefit would be gained in the appointments and I am not convinced it's worth the considerable effort it would be for her. As Gilda used to say, it's always something....

It sure as hell was for Gilda. *sigh*

Wordle 509 4/6 meaty, emote, chute, unite

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A book for you:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_GFZiJ-bPM

>199 kac522: - Thanks, Kathy. I heard about this recently and am already on the request list for it from the library. :-) Nice to hear him talk about it!

>200 jessibud2: Off to do the same at my library....

>199 kac522: Wow, Kathy. Thanks for that link. I will share it over on the AAC thread, I think.

Don't know how to post the wordle graphic here from my tablet. Ctrl+V isn't working. In any case, believe it or not, I got it in 2! It was easy for me, given the day...
meaty, medal

I was sad to see Mattea bow out tonight. All 3 players were good but that Andrew blew it out of the water. Mattea was interviewed on our local cbc morning radio show this morning and when asked how she prepared differently for this tournament, she said she had to learn to be more aggressive in her wagering. She really never got that chance tonight, though. Next week will be exciting, a sort of World Series of Jeopardy champs. I think I will be pulling for Sam. Right from the very first time he was on, I said he looked like Steve Martin 😁

>203 jessibud2: Congratulations on Wordle in two, Shelley!

A 3 -day for me, though it took awhile.

meaty, pleat, valet

>204 FAMeulstee: Thank3s, Anita. Those are rare for me.

Hopelessly behind, but Hi! Nice job on Wordle.

Happy Sunday, Shelley. I just peeked out at my feeders. They have been bustling, in this cold weather. Seeing the juncos and the red-breasted nuthatch has been showing up again too. Yah!!

A 5 day for wordle. Too many options.
meaty, chase, brave, plane, inane@>

Hi Kim and Mark. I am currently in Montreal dealing with issues with my mum. I feel like all I am doing is putting out little fires. Pretty stressful days but just trying to stay focussed and put one foot in front of the other.

Hi Shelley! Sending hugs. Say hi to your mom from me. I don't mind if she doesn't remember me. It's the thought that counts. Safe travels.

Thanks, Madeline. Hugs appreciated. Lots of issues going on, even more than I had anticipated. I know, deep breaths. But it isn't easy.

>212 jessibud2: It genuinely is not easy. I am so sad that it's come down to this level of frustration for you.

But you WILL prevail. *smooch*

More hugs to you Shelley! Stressful times, take care of yourself as well.

Thank you, Richard and Ella.

Wordle:
meaty, maize, mauve, maple

Shame on me, a proud Canadian, for taking 4 turns to get this. 😜

>215 jessibud2: ...particularly when the Texan took the same!

*smooch*

Hang in there Shelley! I am sure the stress contributed to your Wordle score today. 😜

>216 richardderus: - Rub it in, rub it in...

>217 Berly: - Ha! Yep, that's it! :-)

Wordle:
meaty, crank, board, snarl

Thinking of you, Shelley, sending de-stessing thoughts and some (((hugs)))

Thank you, Anita. Much appreciated.

WORDLE:

MEATY, SLAKE, FREAK, BAKER

>220 jessibud2: It was a good word today, wasn't it...appropriate since #GBBO crowned its winner last night.

Hoping all's going well.

Just dropping by to say hi and see how you’re doing.

Hope things are at least manageable, Shelley....thinking of you....hang in there.

Well, today is my mother's 89th birthday and she spent it getting 2 biopsies. I can think of so many other ways that would have made this a better day. But she is such a trooper and my having packed some snacks for her did help. She also got a lovely plant from her husband, and a few cards in the mail and the phone calls are still coming in. But ask her where she was today, and she couldn't tell you.

The (dementia) mind is such a curious thing. Every time I visit I make sure we play cards. She can still play gin rummy (she took 3 out of 4 games from me yesterday. Just so you know, I did not let her win. That's always been a no-no in our family). I did scale back from 10 card rummy to 7 card rummy due to her recent weakness and decline but she still managed very well.

It's been an exhausting 6 days as I head home tomorrow but I'm glad I was here. I miss my own bed and my boys.

>224 jessibud2: It sounds as if your visit went well, despite your mum's having to go for biopsies today. Wish her a happy birthday from Jose and me! Kol Ha'kavod for her beating you at rummy! :D Safe travels home. I'm sure your boys are missing you.

Happy Birthday to your Mom, Shelley. I am glad you were there for her day and got to play some gin rummy. Safe travels home tomorrow.

>106 jessibud2: Shelly, I met Will when I made an appointment to have my eyes examined. When he mentioned that he raised his three children, aged 2, 5 and 7 when his wife left, I realized this would have occurred at a time when day care centers were not available. I was most impressed. My beloved grandmother died a month before our first date. He was so very kind and sensitive.

I hope your trip home tomorrow is safe.

>224 jessibud2: So sorry your mom is having the biopsies done. After caring for mrsdrneutron's mom through dementia and her physical decline, I definitely get how exhausting it can be. I hope you get a chance to rest soon!

Thank you, Madeline, Mark, Linda and Jim. I am home now and exhausted. Thank goodness I beat the bad weather that is coming. Boys are home, fridge is replenished enough for now and I plan to watch Jeopardy and head to bed. I will be very disappointed if the Tournament of Champions ends tonight. I had been hoping Sam would have had a better showing and while there is still tonight, I am not that hopeful.

Wordle 516 5/6 meaty, slick, trove three, there

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I hope that you will be feeling better after resting at home!

Hi Dear One! I echo Cyrel's good wishes. I imagine you are exhausted. I hope you can rest and replenish your energy.

Wordle 517 4/6 meaty, young, glint, glyph

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I hope you have a restful weekend to recover Shelley. Sounds like you and your mum made the best of things, and that she had some pleasure of a big birthday. Congratulations dutiful daughter.

I can only agree with what everyone has said. Glad you could be there for your mother. And wishing you a nice and restful weekend!

Thanks, Caroline and Ella.
Right now, I am absolutely livid, though and doubt that will change unless I let off steam. My brother texted me to say that he called my mum this afternoon and her husband answered the phone. He said he sounded worse than my mother. When I was there during the past week, he had told me he had a cold and was very congested so didn't want to come over. Fair enough (and good on him, I thought, rather charitably). Turns out, I guess he felt he was safe to change that as soon as I left. So how dare he go over if he is still sick? To him it may be *just a cold* but if she catches a cold, it will develop into a cough (her pattern, like mine, always, and, being married to her for 25 years, one might expect him to know that. If he ever paid any attention), and she has nothing left in her to fight that. I debated calling him immediately and giving him a piece of my mind. I was waiting for a call from her doctor, though (still am!!), so I didn't want to tie up the phone. I will tomorrow, though and I will also call my mother's floor nurse and tell her he is not to be allowed in until he is 100% healthy. I know what his reply will be: he *wanted to see her*. In his 85 whatever years, he seems not yet to have learned to put anyone's wellbeing ahead of his own *wants*. I have certainly never witnessed it. It's why my brother and I moved her away from him; he just was not capable or willing to take proper care of her. I swear, I have never had a blood pressure problem but if I don't develop one now, I never will.

As for calling him, regardless of friends telling me not to, I *need* to. Someone has to call him out point blank. He clearly will not make wise decisions unless forced to and I am busting my ass trying to keep her from getting sicker. I have no patience left for the likes of him. I never did but have always held my tongue. No more.

End of rant. And sorry for dumping...

>235 jessibud2: So sorry for having to deal with such a jerk, Shelley.
Good you wrote it down, that might help a bit.
And (((hugs)))

Thank you, Anita. I guess it did help. I may just text him instead of having to talk to him. And my mother's hematologist never did call me yesterday, despite my being told that she would, *sometime after 2pm*. I have only been trying to reach her since mid-October. So I went to bed completely frustrated. At least I slept well.

Today I plan to do some household chores and the hell with everyone else. I hate being so cranky but it seems to be my permanent state right now. Good thing I live alone. I think I would be pretty miserable to live with these days ....

Wordle 518 4/6 meaty, treat, alert, avert

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I hope that you get everything straightened out with your mother, her doctors and her husband, Shelley. What you are going through sounds so frustrating.

I am saddened that you are going through so much. Your mother's husband sounds like a real jerk. I loved Will dearly, but his cousin was the most idiotic person I've ever experienced...so very disturbing. He was jealous of our relationship and did everything he could to ruin holidays, show up uninvited. ugh.

Please don't apologize for your "rant." This is a very supportive group, and certainly you are at the top of the list of members who are kind, loving and very caring.

Rant when you need to and want to. We’re here for you. Things with your mum’s health, communicating with the medical office and dealing with that difficult husband all sound trying. Hugs. Give your two kitties some pats from me as well. Take care.

Thank you, Meg, Linda and Madeline. I am trying to hold it together, that's all.

In the end, I just texted him. I kept it civil but told him that I would have him barred from entry if he tried to go visit her if he wasn't 100% well. His reply was short and snarky but he got the message. I didn't bother to respond to it. I will speak to the floor nurse tomorrow morning.

To refocus my energies, I have been trying to (continue to) declutter and did 2 closets yesterday. I have a pile of things, including a warm sweater, some turtle neck tops, mittens, a scarf and a pair of winter boots to give to my friend to bring to her church's *Out of the Cold* program that helps the homeless now that winter is here. I could just as easily have put those items into my donation box but this way, I know it will be distributed immediately to those who need it, for free. It hurts my heart to think of people sleeping outdoors. How on earth can they do it? But my city (as many, I imagine) has a housing shortage and a shelter shortage and there are those afraid to go into shelters. It is a problem that has no end. I won't say no solution because there is, of course, a solution, but politics is an ugly business and unfortunately, politicians would rather spend their (our) money building roads, luxury condo towers and giving themselves cushy salaries than putting it where it could actually do good and is desperately needed. They disgust me.

My reading is still struggling. I brought 3 books with me to Montreal including an audiobook. I have finished exactly none of them though may finish one today. What a year...:-(

Wordle 519 5/6 meaty, frame, crave, grave, brave

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I am sorry that you are going through so much.
One cheery thought- I was at "By The Way" restaurant yesterday after seeing a play at the Tarragon. The owner set up heating in the outdoor part- ( overhead heaters and heating stands that look like the ones in Paris cafes) and a sturdy tent shielding the space while leaving a few big open parts. It was very cozy and me and my theatre friends had desserts and tea and stayed in our coats. So if you are up to it- we could meet for lunch or tea.

>241 jessibud2: So frustrating re your mom's awful husband. Hope he got the message at least in the short-term.

Now you've done some decluttering, I hope you get a bit of pleasant reading time Shelley.

I wont get into the behaviour of politicians...

>243 torontoc: - Thanks, Cyrel. That is a good idea. I have also been bringing books to BMV (they buy used books) lately so maybe one day in the next week or two, we could meet (it's basically across the street from By The Way). I'd like that. Will be in touch via email.

Thanks, Caroline. I plan to read this afternoon for awhile so hope to finish the current book. It's called The Garden of Letters by Alyson Richman and while I wouldn't call it great literature, it's ok and hasn't made me want to abandon it so far, so there is that. There are some inconsistencies in the story but that's just a minor quibble at this point. If I can finish it I will consider it a victory.

Sorry to hear about your frustrating ordeal. Glad you decided to text him . I am sure it will make him think twice to visit your mom while being sick.

Congrats on the decluttering. It can be quite cathartic and a bonus it goes to a great cause.

Heres hoping your week ahead is stress free.

Wordle 520 4/6 meaty, pious, amino, axiom

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Selfish people are miserable to deal with. My sad sympathy.

>247 jessibud2: I took a different path but the same number of steps.

I think I may start using 2 opening words as my regulars. Of course, that will likely reduce my chances of having a 2-day, but those were so rare anyhow, I can't see it mattering that much.

Wordle 521 3/6 meaty, pious, prime

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Not a bomb, not a bomb...

Wordle 522 5/6 meaty, pious, slice, chide, drive

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Hi, Shelley. Sorry to hear about all the issues you have been dealing with. I hope you're a bit more settled now and have those BP levels somewhat back to normal. Good luck getting your reading back on track. I know that still brings you comfort.

For Jeopardy fans: The Agenda is a local current affairs program on tv each night right after Jeopardy and I almost always watch it. I like the host and tonight his first guest was Mattea Roach. She was as sweet, charming and funny as ever:

https://www.tvo.org/video/mattea-roach-how-to-be-a-boss-at-jeopardy

If I had paid attention to the date, I should have got this at least one turn sooner, if not two. Oh well.

Wordle 523 4/6 meaty, leant, beast, feast

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>253 jessibud2: I cheated--I read the hint in your post and THEN did Wordle today, so a rare 3 for me.

>252 jessibud2: Thanks for that link--I enjoyed her "behind the scenes" reveals on how Jeopardy works. And she seems like a genuinely nice person.

Wow, you’ve been through the wringer (as we used to say when wringer washers were a thing) with your mom’s health issues and her husband’s bad behavior and the doctor’s lack of communication. I hope things settle down for you and that your mom’s recovery is swift and complete.

I needed to walk away and come back to this one.

Wordle 524 4/6 meaty, tipsy, entry, itchy

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Hi Kathy and Mary. My mother's phone died again so I finally told my brother in no uncertain terms that he HAD to go there this weekend and get her a new one and not leave until it is all up and running smoothly. Add a clueless brother to the list of aggravations. But he said he'd do it so I have to hope it works out ok.

It feels like it should have been easier than it turned out to be. Still, WHEW!

Wordle 525 6/6 meaty, pious, whale, bleak, glean, clean

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I hope your brother comes through with the phone and there’s one less thing for you to do, Shelley.

Wordle 526 4/6 meaty, pious, campy, happy

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You did better than I did today, Shelley. Too many choices, with only the second and last letters found (and in their proper places) until I got the word in 5.

Wordle 526 5/6

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Wordle 527 3/6 meaty, pious, tepid

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Wordle 528 3/6 meaty, pious, undue

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You have had a couple of good days with the wordling, Shelley.

Any update on the opthamologist, I do tend to worry unduly about my pals?

I think that the absence of a receptionist is indicative of a very sad slow decline in personal service.

Hi, Shelley. Just catching up with the latest aggravations in dealing with your Mom's situation. It's so tough being the only "adult in the room", so to speak. And being at a distance as well. Don't forget to breathe...deeply. You are doing all that you can, and more, it seems.

Thanks for the link to Mattea's interview. Don't we get to know some interesting people from watching Jeopardy!, though?

Wordle 529 3/6 meaty, pious, study

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>263 PaulCranswick: - Hi Paul. Thanks for stopping by and asking. In fact, I had another appointment today and was pleased to learn that my surgery date has been moved up from Feb to Jan. 5. I am as nervous as ever but the sooner I get it over with, the better. And even though they were quite behind schedule today (I waited in the waiting room for ONE HOUR!), I did notice that a new receptionist was being trained. Good sign.

>264 laytonwoman3rd: - Hi Linda. The only adult in the room is a good way of describing it. Sigh...I ricochet between being angry and being just fed up. Whatever...

I am really liking Cris Pannullo on Jeopardy. He gave me heart attacks last night with that huge bet in a Daily Double, but thankfully he got it right and went on to win.

>265 jessibud2: It's a good day for a 3day, Shelley! I hope der Bruder came up to scratch with the phone.

*smooch*

>267 richardderus: - Thanks, Richard. I have had 3 3days in a row, in case you missed that, ;-) I am also liking my new choice of first 2 starter words. In 2 turns I can determine the status of all 6 vowels and eliminate, as in today's case, 6 other letters right off the bat.

>268 jessibud2: Which is why I've chosen the words I did, too! I'm thinking of changing word #2 from MIRTH to MURKY, though.

Oh. Did you have a streak of 3days? Goodness. I was remiss not to notice and offer my deepest, most sincerely admiring congratulations. Wasn't I.

>269 richardderus: - :-D. And thank you kindly for not mentioning my game before the 3 day streak... ;-)

BOMB...:-(

Wordle 530 X/6 meaty, pious, theme, greet, event, elect. Ran out of options, and there were at least 2 others for that final word that would have fit. Oh well.

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Oh no! It took me four tries today......

Well, I had a run of 3 days, so this was inevitable at some point...

MY sister-in-law told me about another Puzzle?( i don't know who to call it) "Artle" comes from the National Gallery of Art in Washington. You guess the name of the artist- you are given four tries.

>274 torontoc: - Yikes. Unless it is someone famous and obvious, I'm not sure I would get it. That's more your field of expertise, Cyrel! Have you tried it yet?

>271 jessibud2: oh, no! Well, today’s Wordle was definitely one of the guessing game ones. Too many choices. I managed to get it in 5, but I had 3 letters in the right place by the 3d guess so it’s no credit to me that it took so long.

>276 Storeetllr: - It happens, Mary. C'est la vie.

Wordle 531 5/6 meaty, pious, grave, whale, chafe

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I know, I know. I really need to end this thread and start a new one. Hopefully, by the end of the weekend, it will be done. I know I said that last week, but it's been a busy week, what can I say...

Yes Artle is hard! I have missed a number of times!

Wordle 532 4/6 meaty, pious, boost, torso

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If I hadn't been so quick and had paid closer attention, I would have (should have) had this in 4

meaty, pious, abode, adobe, adore

Wordle 534 5/6 meaty, pious, horde, coven, woken

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>281 jessibud2: Your word #4 was going to be my word #6 if #5 had failed. The plain ol' words are so hard on my brain! I'm looking forward to the next weird one.

*smooch*

Again, I wasn't paying close enough attention. This could have/should have been a 3.

Wordle 535 4/6 meaty, pious, after, amber

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