Farewell to 2011

I know that some people do an elaborate inventory of their accomplishments at the end of each year.  Or they do an analysis of the best and worst, what worked and what didn't, the ups and the downs... that sort of thing.

I keep thinking I should do something like that, but I don't want to.  I think this is because to some extent I do this "as I go."

The start of a new year basically means that I start my read-through of the Bible again, and I start using a new devotional.  I take the prior year bills and bank records out of my filing cabinet to make room for the new year.  (The old year gets filed in the attic.)

The most difficult thing for me is getting used to writing the new year on my checks.  Nobody else has that problem, right?

Of course I do some of the New Year's resolution stuff.  I start the "I'm going to eat better and exercise" process just like everybody else does.  (And this year, I'm really going to stick to it... just like I say every year.  LOL!)

As I say "Good Bye" to 2011, I thank God for His many blessings.  Lew and I are especially thankful for the new little grandson that arrived in October.  :)

Have a wonderful New Year's Eve... and a HAPPY 2012!

Sign Here and Here and Here....

With the interest rates so low, Lew and I decided to refinance our home loan.  We closed on it this morning.

Is it normal to have fun at a closing?  We were working with some great people, and we laughed a lot!

We can cancel all of the paperwork that we did today over the next three business days.  But on Thursday everything will be final.

The new mortgage is a 20-year loan.  We still had 22 years left on the old one.

Our first payment won't be due until March 1, 2012.  And the monthly payment will be almost $60 less than if we hadn't refinanced.

Plus we got a free pen and travel mug.

The writer's cramp was definitely worth it!

Hold the Mayo (or Miracle Whip)

Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip?  Lew and I have an ongoing debate about which tastes better.  I prefer Mayonnaise.  He likes Miracle Whip.

So I conducted a little poll on Facebook a couple days ago to ask what other people like better, and 43 of my Facebook friends weighed in!  One of my friends gave her husband's preference as well.

After adding Lew and I to the mix, I have a total of 46 responses.

The Tally:

Mayonnaise = 25
(4  Hellmann's; 2  Cains; 19 no brand specified)

Miracle Whip = 17

It depends on the food = 2
(although one of these folks later indicated Miracle Whip)

Neither = 2
("DISGUSTING" and "I can live without either")

FINAL RESULT:  Mayonnaise 25; Other choices 21.  Mayonnaise wins!

My Facebook friends also shared a variety of comments.  Here are a couple of my favorites:

So I heard on the radio this morning that the average couple has like 300 arguments a year. The DJs were wondering what the arguments were about. This one did not come up. :)

They are two different condiments. I prefer Hellmann's taste. One is not better than the other, just different. Like Heinz ketchup: there is a difference in taste between regular, reduced sugar, and no salt varieties. That's why we have 'varieties'.

Thus ends my project on Mayonnaise versus Miracle Whip.  Maybe I should tackle Pepsi versus Coke products next!

Dad 77: The Squirrels and The Cat

(The remote control cars and helicopters are quite the hobby.  But I'd rather read a book!  And I'm hoping that the fat squirrel isn't a sign of a hard winter ahead.  Enjoy Dad's post!  -- Tracy)

Derf Here!  Another sunny day in the great Northeast.  Temperatures in the 40's.  No snow on the ground around the old homestead.  Ski areas are open as they have been making snow for awhile now.  The warm days are about to end, according to the expert weather people.

Well, another Christmas day has passed us by.  Hope you all had a joyous experience and celebration.  We all did in this part of the country.  It wasn't easy getting to bed at 1:00 a.m. after a candlelight service and rising up for our 9:30 a.m. church service.  I did make it.  The morning service had only 32 people attending.  The candlelight service had about four times that.  Lazy, lazy parishioners!

The grandsons and their father, Glen, not only have cars they race at a local indoor track Tuesday evenings, but now have helicopters to fly around chasing area residents and shooting each other down.  Toys have really improved since I was a kid.

Our Illinois family stayed with hi-tech toys.  The family upgraded to a 60-inch HD flat screen TV.  The granddaughters received new laptops.  A great day was had by all family members (ME and IL).

Almost every day I stroll out on Uncle Lew's deck and place walnuts and peanuts on the handrail of the deck.  Why, you ask, do I do this?  Well, I do it so our squirrels have food for the winter.  Me thinks there are only two squirrels taking advantage of my generosity.  One is fat; the other has a scrawny tail.  They won't share, as one always drives the other away.  We can tell when the second one is approaching as the tail starts to shake.  I guess that motion is supposed to frighten the intruder.  It doesn't seem to work.

See the squirrel?
This is our view through our living room window.

Pepper is fascinated by the squirrels.  We point out the window and say "squirrel" and she will arise and go to her window perch and observe the beasts eating the nuts.  They will take nuts and leave, returning a short while later and go through the same procedure over and over again.  I think they are storing them for the winter.  They need food for the long cold winter.  I'm trying to help them out.

Pepper is watching the squirrel.

Spouse was bitten in the middle of the night by Pepper.  From what I hear, Spouse went to pat Pepper.  I think she scared the cat with the motion, and the cat was just reacting as any animal would.  Of course, I wasn't the one she bit.  Bad Kitty!

The reason we have Pepper is Kim and her Illinois family couldn't keep kitty due to the fact that she would bite them.  Tracy was visiting Kim and brought Pepper to us on the plane.  She will be 15 years old in April.  Overall, she is a well-behaved feline.  Good Kitty!

Wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Until next YEAR!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

The Party Is Over

Lew's employer was very generous and closed the office both yesterday and today.  It's been nice to spend so much time together.

But it's back to work for Lew tomorrow.  (And I am finally going to start editing my novel.)

Lew's work week, however, is a short one of only three days.  And then we have another long weekend together.

So, maybe we should just say that the party is in "intermission."  :)

Collection of Christmas Moments

On Saturday morning Lew and I stopped at RiteAid to buy him some garlic supplements.  (Blech.)  While there, he mentioned that he wanted to buy one other thing.  He wouldn't tell me what it was.  When I insisted, he admitted that he was going to buy a Christmas card for me.  Ah, good idea!  So we went to the card section together and stood side-by-side as we selected Christmas cards for each other....  How romantic!

We always exchange gifts with my parents and each other on Christmas Eve.  We also open our gifts from relatives that we won't be seeing for the Holiday.  After opening one gift Lew asked, "Why are the Henrys giving me a rawhide chew for dogs?"  It turns out that Cocoa's gift for Sadie had been wedged down in Lew's gift bag!  I taped the tissue paper back up as well as I could, but after I was done it looked more like Cocoa had actually done the wrapping.

Lew wanted an atomic clock for Christmas, and Santa obliged.  Lew spent quite a bit of time this morning trying to get it to work properly.  When he was getting frustrated, I reminded him that he was creating a Christmas memory.  (Figuring out the new gadgets... isn't that a Christmas tradition?)

A couple days ago, I mentioned to Lew that we should take the tree down the day after Christmas.  (I knew that we would have the time to get it done.)  His initial response was, "Noooo!  Let's leave it up for a while.  We'll take it down on New Year's Day."  I said that would be fine, but I suspected that he would continue to consider my suggestion.  And did he?

The tree is down.

Happy Birthday, Jesus

We had a busy, wonderful day with family.

And I finally had my picture taken with Eli!  (I'm usually behind the camera.)

I hope that you all had a glorious day.

Joy to the World!

HAVE A
MERRY
CHRISTMAS!

A True Story

My sister Debbie is hosting Christmas dinner on Sunday.  I am bringing my famous Sweet Potato Casserole.  Mom is bringing three items.

When Mom came over to get some serving dishes today, she informed me that she is bringing "baby onions, cranberry sauce, and... um... you know... um... the stuff that you stuff the turkey with...."

I suggested that perhaps she was talking about stuff-ing.

And what do you know?

I was right!

(Postscript:  Please read yesterday's post titled "Christmas Gifts" on Update On Suzy.  Wonderful news!)

Photos... by Eli



It's about time Tia let me share more photos.
HI, GRAMPA!!!



Tom Brady's got NOTHING on me.
Go deep, Daddy!

I love Momma!



I'm supposed to be in bed.  Oops!




Daddy, Momma, and I wish you a Merry Christmas!



Dad 76: Merry Christmas

(Enjoy Dad's post!  And, oh... I agree.  --  Tracy)

Derf Here! From the rainy Northeast.  Did you notice we are not getting snow, but rain?  The ground here is still green (no plowing yet).  However, it is quite cool certain nights.  Down to about 8 degrees a couple nights ago.  I guess that a 'White Christmas' is impossible.  Sorry, Bing, keep dreaming.

Back in the 80's I established a tradition at Massabesic High School of singing at our annual Christmas assembly.  I doubt that the assembly is still happening, knowing what is going on in this country.  It was a 'joyous' occasion for me.  I'm not considered a 'joyous' person (just kidding).  It was kind of fun having students asking me during the day:  "Hey, Mr. G., are you going to sing today?"  I would say:  "Maybe."  I always sang.  As soon as my "White Christmas" -- accompanied by the band -- was over, I would dismiss the group with, "You are dismissed.  I'll see you next year.  Merry Christmas."  This dismissal with a 'Merry Christmas' probably would be frowned upon today.  Sad, but true!

Christmas today causes no anxiety for me.  The older I get, I become more mellow.  I hope my family agrees to this.  I like watching the grandsons opening presents.  I enjoy dinner with the families.  Families consist of extended families gained as in-laws.  I miss my Illinois family, but that is a part of life that I have accepted (not willingly, but of necessity).

I am happy that Christmas is the celebration of Christ's birth.  This, as we know, is the greatest happening of the season.  Enjoy the season with family and friends.  Be happy for Christ's birth and what He means in your life.  And have a Merry Christmas!

My post is short today as I do not want Tracy to type all afternoon.  Hopefully you got my message!  Longer next time!

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

The Post Office Elf

I had to mail out a small package yesterday.  When I went into the Scarborough post office -- right during the lunch hour, no less -- there was quite a long line due to the Christmas rush.

I settled in for a long wait, but then I noticed a postal worker with the name tag "Elf."  She was going down the line and helping everyone with what they were going to mail.

In my case, Elf got me a Priority Mail Flat Rate envelope and she even attached the delivery confirmation receipt that I wanted.

My package was read by the time I got to the counter.  All I needed to do was pay.

And how long was I in line?  Only about five minutes!

Thank you, Elf!

The Annual Christmas Pageant

Yesterday was the children's Christmas musical at our church.  It was called "The Great Christmas Giveaway."

It was very cute, of course, as all children's programs are.  The little girl that threw the Baby Jesus on the floor was especially adorable.  Fortunately, they did use a doll for Baby Jesus.

Our nephew Zack was in the musical.  I believe this was his last one, as next year he will be "too old."  (LOL!)

When I saw Zack in his costume, I told him that I felt very safe with him around.  :)


Zack in his role as "Paul, the Mall Cop"



He looked like the real thing!



I Do Not Choose to Run

Lew and I watched the GOP presidential candidates debate on Thursday night.  I was watching my Twitter feed at the same time, as some pundits were tweeting their "play-by-play" analysis.  (There were some pretty amusing tweets.)

Toward the end of the debate, I initiated the following conversation with Lew:

"I don't think I would ever be able to run for President."

"Why not?"

"Because I would do poorly in the debates."

"How come?"

"Because they take so long to ask the questions.  My mind would start to wander.  I'd have to ask them to repeat every question!"

So... POTUS is another career option down the tubes!

Hopefully There Won't Be a Quiz

Lew and I achieved a major accomplishment tonight.  We watched the final Harry Potter movie!  I refer to this movie as "Book 7, Part 2" -- although the actual title contains something like "Deathly Hallows."

And just so you know, Lew and I didn't just skip right to the last movie.  Over the past few years we have watched all eight movies.  In order!

We understood what was going on for the most part.

When tonight's movie finished, I looked at Lew and said, "The End."

Lew's response?  "Thank goodness."

I Am Survivor

Lew and I just saw a TV ad for "Survivor."

I mentioned that I should try to go on that show.  I was expecting a guffaw from Lew.

Instead he told me that he thought I would do well.

I asked, "You are joking, right?"

"Well, you are sort of wimpy.  But you do have a serious survival ability really deep down."

Wow.  Thanks, Sweetie!  (I think.)

LOL!  :)

Fluids, Salt Water, Rest

I got my Z-Pak refilled yesterday, as I am not quite over my illness.  I called my doctor's office and talked with a nurse.  She said a lot of folks are having to do the second round of meds.  She told me to drink lots of fluids, gargle with salt water, and get lots of rest.

I've been drinking fluids.

I gargled with salt water.  (I had to do some Internet research to get the ratio:  1/4 teaspoon salt to 1 cup warm/hot water.)

I have had a restful day.  I finished reading a book that I had started last week.  I have already posted about it on my book blog, but I wanted to mention it here as well.  Every now and then I read a book that "sticks with me," and this one will do that:

When I Lay My Isaac Down    by Carol Kent

I encourage you to read the post on my book blog:  Click Here.

Dad 75: Kim Comments and Joe Conducts

(May your days be merry and bright!  Enjoy Dad's post. -- Tracy)

Derf Here!  From the snowless northeast coast of Maine.  The plow is ready!  The weather is not!  I have no regrets.  It is, however, cold enough now for the ski areas to make the white stuff.  They also have received some snow in storms.  The story here is we had snow for Halloween and Thanksgiving.  It all went away shortly after.  Will we have a 'White Christmas'?  Stay tuned!

My last blog post in November was about a 'miracle' ride on a highwheeler with middle daughter Kim.  Shortly after the posting Kim commented on the blog.  Her comment:

YOU FORGOT TO TELL THEM YOU YELLED AS YOU RODE BY ME "I CAN'T STOP EITHER!"

I had lost my control and went zooming down the hill as mentioned in the blog post.  I might add the bike she was riding was the same one I was pictured on back in 1951 at Old Orchard Beach.  The front tire was put on by my dad.  He used over-sized rubber tire and the tire occasionally would come off.  Why it didn't happen in the dirt is a wonder.  Eventually I took the wheeling device and replaced the tire rubber with the correct size.  Never to come off again!  A much safer situation!

In a couple days son-in-law Joe will be directing the Peoria (IL) Area Civic Chorale (PACC) for his final performance.  The Christmas show will end his tenure after 20 years at the helm.  A Friday, Saturday, and Sunday performance will wind up his stint.  His wife, Kim, will be performing in the group along with their daughter Kaelen.  Our thoughts will be with them throughout the weekend.  I wish I could pull a 'genie' (like Barbara Eden) out of the bottle and transfer my residence by closing my eyes.  Not possible, so we'll miss the finale.  I know all will go well, as usual.  Here is to Joe and family.  Congratulations for a job well done.

Here's hoping everyone will be getting in the spirit of the season over the next few days.

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

Another Small Step

After telephoning my hairdresser, Shannon, twice last week to cancel my appointment, I finally made it in to see her today.  I usually get my hair cut every four weeks, so I was a week overdue.  (The perils of having short hair!)

When we were scheduling my next appointment -- for four weeks from today -- we started talking about my pocket calendar.  I still use the paper kind, despite the fact that I've used an iPhone for four years.  Shannon told me, "You know, Trace, people do successfully use the calendar on their phones."

So.... I've taken the plunge.  I set up my iPhone calendar to sync with Google Calendar.  Over the next couple days I'll enter all of my appointments.  And then -- with some trepidation -- I will abandon my paper pocket calendar.

Gulp....

The Pocket Dial

The "pocket dial" happens when your cell phone calls someone without your being aware of it.  (This is also sometimes referred to as the "butt dial" -- especially if you keep your phone in your back pocket.)

For example, consider my sister Kim and her cell phone.  Kim keeps her phone in her pocketbook when she's out and about.  And for some reason, her cell phone likes to call my cell phone number.  If I happen to answer, all I hear is "hmph...gurgle...blah...bzzzz" (whatever) until I realize that Kim is really not at the other end.  If I don't answer, then I end up with a 90-second voicemail of "hmph...gurgle...blah...bzzzz" (whatever).

The last time Kim's phone was guilty of the pocket dial was yesterday morning.  The voicemail was a little different this time -- I could actually hear Kim's voice and some laughter.  I could make out none of the conversation, though, much to my chagrin.  But it does seem like I am getting more information with each pocket dial....

So BEWARE, Kim!  My phone is watching you!  (LOL!)

The Day of Rest

Although my health is continuing to improve, I'm still very tired. Worn out. Exhausted. Plain pooped.

I did make it to church this morning. Matt, Emily, and Eli were there, too! I hope I was somewhat sociable between yawns.

Lew made spaghetti earlier, and the Patriots won. So I think I deserve a nap!

Thanks for checking in. :)

I Will Not "Should" On Myself

Now that I'm starting to come out of the fog of illness, I am realizing how far behind I am on just about everything.  Especially Christmas preparations.

But -- interestingly enough -- Christmas comes whether I'm ready or not!  And do I really need to do anything other than enjoy the Season and be thankful for the gift of the Baby Jesus?

So what if all of the Christmas decorations don't make it out of their boxes this year?  At least the tree is up and trimmed.

As for our shopping, Lew is taking this Friday off from work so that we can finish our list together.

For the next couple weeks, I will listen to Christmas music and enjoy this wonderful time of year.  And I will thank the Baby Jesus for bringing joy to the world.

Resurfacing :)

When I woke up this morning, I realized that I had slept through the entire night.  That hadn't happened in several days due to my coughing and extremely runny nose.  I am feeling SO much better.  Yippee!  :)

My mother did a load of laundry this morning.  (The machines are in the upstairs bathroom on our side of the house.)  The load was in the dryer by the time I took a shower.  I placed my clothes on top of the dryer, so they were nice and warm when I put them on afterward.  Very comfy!  :)

My parents bought me Chinese food for lunch yesterday.  I had leftovers for dinner last night and for lunch today.  So I got three meals out of it.  Yummy!  :)

I made it out of the house today.  One of my errands was to activate my new iPhone 4GS.  Lew bought it for me for Christmas.  He ordered it at the AT&T Store in the Maine Mall four days ago, and I knew about it by the time he got home.  (I got an e-mail regarding the purchase.  Ha ha!)  So when the phone arrived he handed it to me and said "Merry Christmas."  The phone is great.  Thanks, Sweetie!  :)

I'm very thankful that my health is improving.  I give credit to the Z-Pak.  When I said as much on Facebook, my father replied, "Me thinks the Moxie did it !!!"  :)

The Tide Has Turned

I'm starting to feel better... today was the first day that I noticed significant improvement.

My primary short-term goal is to get a good night's sleep.  I haven't had one in several nights.

Tomorrow I hope to venture out into the world to do some errands.  (That would be a major accomplishment!)

So, will she or won't she?  Check back tomorrow to see if I finally was able to leave the house.

In the meantime, for your viewing pleasure, here is yet another cute picture of Eli.  (They're all cute, in my opinion.)

Dad 74: Confession

(I'm still recovering from this nasty cold, so no pithy comment from me today regarding Dad's post.  Enjoy!  -- Tracy)

Derf Here!  From a soggy Northeast.  Better than snow!  For me, but not for the ski industry.  It was 53 degrees yesterday (December 6), but the weather guys say winter weather temperatures will be settling in shortly.  We're ready!  The plow is ready.  Bring it on!  March will be here before we know it.  At least that's what I hope.

Today is confession day for me.  It was a Sunday around 1954.  I was spending an afternoon visiting my grandparents at their home in Sanford.  I had taken our 1939 Bantam to the farm.  It was not uncommon for me to use the 'little car.'  (The vehicle resides in its trailer home today.  I have written about the Bantam in previous blog posts.)  This specific Sunday proved to be a 'real bad' day.  Late in the afternoon I decided to go home.  I left the farm and proceeded to the main road.  As I drove towards 'hospital hill' I made a very bad decision.  I chose to see how fast the little four-cylinder vehicle would go.  The speedometer had 80 as top speed.  I had never gone past 40 in previous trips.  Well, the motor revved up, the speed increased to 55 mph.  It didn't seem to me that it would go any faster.  I let up on the gas pedal to a serious crash under the hood.  I had nowhere to go but to the side of the road.  The visual under the hood was not good.  The number-3 connecting rod was mangled and came through the driver's side of the block.  Now what?

At this time a railroad engine was being constructed that would fit over the Bantam for a band show.  Our high school band would be performing and the engine would be part of the show.  Well, I told my dad I was travelling about 35 mph when disaster struck.  I don't think he believed me, but he never made a federal case of it.  The problem was attacked as I took the front end of the car apart.  I removed the radiator and took the blown engine out.  I was able to lift the engine out as it is very small.  The head is about 12 inches by 4 inches.  Now how would we get the motor ready for use?  The car being a Bantam limited our opportunities.

Well, an automotive instructor (Forrest Pillsbury) at our high school was where we went.  First he removed the mangled piston.  Then he proceeded to patch the hole in the block by molding a metal patch and secured it to the block by sheet metal screws.  The original engine remains in the automobile today.  One can look and see the patch with its screws.  Where he got the connecting rod I don't know.  I do know that the piston that was used was from a small engine.  It was higher than the original pistons so a second head/gasket was added.  The show went on.  The train made its debut.

A few years later, due to inactivity, the motor seized up and remained that way until 1997.  It was then that we decided to rebuild the engine with all the correct parts.  A fellow teacher of mine, Goodwin Hannaford, did the job.  He had never worked on such an engine as he was a builder of stock car engines and Corvette engines.  He did a fine job and we have travelled all over the eastern part of the country to national shows with the car since 1998.

June 2007, Carthage MO
American Austin Bantam Club (AABC) Meet

I must add this story about an accident involving the Bantam.  In high school I played in the town band along with a couple of friends.  I parked the car on School Street across from the band hall and rehearsed.  When leaving the practice I noticed a note in the car.  My front fender had a dent.  The note said to check at the police department.  It seems that a local cop had tried to park in the same spot that my car was in.  That would be a no-no.  I believed I had the windshield folded down.  Why, I don't know.  Well the damage was done and I think I collected six dollars for the damage.  I repaired it with a hammer and bondo.

What a weight off my shoulders as I have come clean about blowing up the engine on the 'little car.'  What a relief!  (Just kidding.)  What a car!!

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf

Let's Go, Z-Pak!

So I've been sick for a week and I'm not feeling any better.  (Lew wasn't feeling well for a couple days, but he's fine now.  What's up with that???)

I made two very important phone calls this morning:

1. Doctor's office to make an appointment
2. Hairdresser to cancel an appointment

Fortunately, I do not have bronchitis nor pneumonia.  But I did get a prescription, which I picked up at the drugstore on my way home.

I was out of the house for about an hour and it wore me out.
 
I'm ready to feel better.
 
In the meantime, I'll look at the the following picture when I need a "happy" boost:

Insider Trading Tip

My use of Kleenex tissues over the past several days will surely result in unexpected profit for Kimberly-Clarke Worldwide, Inc.

Today consisted of the following things over and over and over:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Blowing nose
• Drinking fluids
• Eliminating said fluids

Although I'm still feeling pretty icky, I do believe that I have taken a turn for the better. But it's a long way up the hill to good health.

(Postscript:  If anyone from the SEC happens to stumble upon this post, please note that I was joking about the insider trading tip.  I am not a member of Congress.)

Photos... by Eli

I love the New England Patriots!

Chillin'

We have a cat named Karma.
He pretty much ignores me.
And... he's right behind me, isn't he?



Watching football with Daddy.

Surrendering to sleep.... I'll be doing this soon, for sure!

The Plague Persists

Thought I was getting better, but now I'm feeling yucky again.  Stuffy nose, sore throat, headache.

I was kind enough to share my illness with my husband.  Sorry, Sweetie.

We just watched the movie "Water for Elephants."

It's still early for a Saturday night, but I think I'm calling it a day.

And I Helped

I cooked tonight.

Lew's buddy Steve came over and showed me how to make this focaccia-bread-stuffed thing.

Steve cut the bread lengthwise and put tons of olive oil on the bread.

The "stuffing" had lots of good ingredients.  Four kinds of cheeses alone:  Mozzarella, Cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano.  Steve told us afterward that the Mozzarella and Cheddar were "fake" cheeses.  They were soy.

We also put in sausage, which I cut up (and was supposed to fry but I don't know how to fry, so Steve did it.)  I also sliced up two tomatoes and an onion, which made me a bit teary-eyed.

The remaining ingredients were garlic, basil, and Greek olives.  Actually the Greek olives were in only one of the two foccacia things, because I don't like Greek olives.  (Nor any kind of olive, truth be told.)

To build the thing:

• Bottom half of the focaccia bread (drenched in olive oil).
• Arrange the tomato slices to cover the bread.
• Mix all of the other ingredients together and pack it down on top of the tomatoes.
• Put the top of the focaccia bread on top of that.

Oh... and you should have started building this on aluminum foil.  To bake, the whole thing is wrapped in aluminum foil.  The WHOLE THING -- top, too.

The aluminum-foil-wrapped-focaccia-bread-stuffed thing is placed directly on the middle rack of the stove, preheated to 350 degrees.  Takes about an hour to bake.

YUMMY!

Goes well with chocolate cake.  :)

My NaNoWriMo Celebration

As you know from Tuesday's post, I "won" the NaNoWriMo challenge to write 50,000 words of my novel during the month of November.

HOORAY FOR ME!!!

That does call for a celebration, doesn't it?

Here's how I celebrated:  The night of my "win" was a sleepless one.  I had a terrible sore throat that kept me up.  So I felt pretty lousy yesterday.  I didn't even get out of my pajamas.  (You can ask my mother, as she commented on my attire several times.)

I slept much better last night, although I'm not feeling 100 percent yet.  And I won't be able to turn in early tonight because I have a meeting to go to.

But my sweet husband texted me earlier, asking if I would like a Hawaiian pizza for dinner.  He just walked in the door with it....

Celebration, here I come!  Smile.

Dad 73: Riding High

(I did my 10-mile ride on a day other than the one Dad describes below.  But I rode a 'lower-to-the-ground' bicycle, which is much more my style.  Enjoy Dad's post!  -- Tracy)

Derf Here!  After a wonderful Thanksgiving from the warm Northeast.  Another 50-degree day as November winds down.  The weatherman said cooler days are coming in December.  I hope so for the ski industry (not necessary for me, however!).

Last evening we attended a viewing showing respect for a friend who frequently rode our antique bikes in parades a few years back.  This got me thinking about my involvement with The Wheelmen (an international club for the preservation of antique bicycles) and specific times we enjoyed with the group.

My dad (a yankee trader) somehow came upon a highwheeler about sixty years ago.  Other names for the cycle are 'Penny-farthing' and 'Ordinary.'  I took a liking to the bike and taught myself to ride the monster.  My learning was not without a few bruises.


Back of this picture says: "13 years old;
1951 on old bicycle;
at Old Orchard Beach"



Back of this picture just says "Fred"

Even after mastering the bike I had a few memorable moments on the highwheelers, but nothing like daughter Kim had on a 10-mile ride in the late 1970's.

The Wheelmen decided on a 10-mile ride in Cape Elizabeth.  A 10-mile ride qualifies one to be a voting member in the club.  We gathered in the parking lot at the high school where I was teaching, which was to be where we would start and complete our ride.

The ride went well until a hilly section on the way to a local lighthouse.  We started down the hill when Kim left the pavement and was caught in the soft shoulder.  The bike continued to pick up speed as the hill was quite steep.  I was beside her until I could no longer control my speed.  I took my feet off the pedals and went whizzing down the hill.  As Kim was out of control, another rider was able to stay beside her.  Dana Gibson kept telling her to "stay on the bike."  Somehow Kim was able to get the bike back on pavement.  To this day I give credit to Dana for staying with her and talking her out of trouble.  I'm sure Kim will never forget the 'miracle' on that day.

Did I tell you that we never wore helmets for protection?  What ended happily could have been a serious accident.  How Kim was able to get from soft gravel back on the pavement is beyond my comprehension.  A 'miracle' indeed.  We give thanks!

Kim riding high several years after her 'miracle' ride.

I have several more stories related to the bicycling which I'll relate in the future.  My involvement in The Wheelmen was a result of riding in a parade and making the newspaper.  It has been a great ride.  It also has filled my garage with too many bicycles!

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

The Countdown: One

I did it.

50,000+ words.

And with a day to spare.

Must... rest... now.

The Countdown: Two

Words written yesterday:  4,013
Words written today:  7,264
Cumulative word count:  43,664

So 6,336 words to go in order to get to 50,000.  That's an average of 3,168 over the remaining two days of the NaNoWriMo challenge.

I am a crazy woman.

A Photo Break

The countdown for NaNoWriMo is now three.

But wouldn't you rather see some recent pictures of Eli instead of read about my novel-writing?

Tomorrow night:  Check back for an up-to-date word count.

Today:  Enjoy these cute pictures!

The Countdown: Four

Here's what happened today:

• Lew and I went out to breakfast with our friends.
• Then we went to see Eli.  (Oh, yeah... we saw Matt and Emily, too!)
• We stopped at the grocery store.  (Even though we stuffed ourselves on Thanksgiving, I guess that we will still need to eat in the future.)
• The mail had piled up for a few days.  I finally went through it.  Paid some bills.  (Yuck!)
• I read the paper and did the puzzles.
• I did my devotion.
• While doing the previous three things, I also completed three loads of laundry.
• Lew and I ate dinner and watched the movie "Shutter Island."  (We're still scratching our heads.)
• Then Lew and I did our devotion.
• Now I am writing my blog post.

So, what is missing from the above?  If you're a regular reader of Mainely Tracy, then you know what I didn't do yet today.

That's right!  I have not written at least 3,540 words of my novel.

This is not to say that I have not thought about my novel today.  I have.  A lot.  In fact, I've thought so much about it, that I've decided to take some of the plot in a whole different direction.  (All part of the creative process, I guess.)  So when I sit down to work on it... probably tomorrow, at this point... I will have some interesting new twists to get down on paper.  Or on the computer screen, in this case.

I do have a dilemma regarding the NaNoWriMo challenge:  The new direction of the story contradicts some (most) of what I've already written.  In fact, some of the writing that I'm going to do over the next few days will be somewhat repetitive in nature.

My gut is that I should still count all of the words that I've written so far.  (Remember, the goal is 50,000 words.)  After all, I don't know what will stay and what will go when the editing process begins.  Plus, all of these words have been part of the process.

And from what I can tell, my experience is "normal" for NaNoWriMo!

The Countdown: Five

Only five days left of NaNoWriMo after today!

I made my daily word count goal on Wednesday, but yesterday....  Well, let's not talk about that.  (It was Thanksgiving, after all.)

Before I started writing today, I determined that I need to average 3,540 words per day over the remaining days.

Words written today:  3,623.  (Yippee!)

Cumulative word count:  32,387.  (50,000 -- Here I come!)

Thank you, dear readers, for hanging in there with me throughout this challenge.  I will be doing lots of editing starting December 1st, but the word count goal will be over.  (Hooray!)  And hopefully Mainely Tracy will return to "normal."  (Whatever that is!)

Happy Thanksgiving

We had a wonderful meal at our home today.  There were 13 of us, and I think we could have fed twice that.

Lew just updated his Facebook status with:

Thanksgiving by the numbers: 13 people; 24 lb turkey; 7 desserts; 2 eyes closing zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

We missed having Matt, Emily, and Eli with us.  But Matt did text his father a "Happy Thanksgiving, Grampa!!" photo of Eli.  I will include it below, of course.

Praise God from Whom ALL blessings flow!

Happy Thanksgiving.

Dad 72: More Bragging on the Grandkids

(Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day tomorrow.  And enjoy Dad's post!  --  Tracy)

Derf Here!  Reporting on a rainy/snowy day in the great Northeast.  Thankfully, we are getting just rain.  A little inland and the mountains are getting snow.  Weather reports say some places are to get up to 12-14 inches.  We may get a trace at storm's end.  I can handle a trace.

All here are looking forward to tomorrow when we'll gather here for Thanksgiving.  Lew and Tracy will host, yet another Thanksgiving, once again.  It is a great day for friends and family.  Make sure all of you reading this enjoy the day for what it is.  Another day of football!  (Just kidding.)  Enjoy the day with friends and family.  Don't forget to give thanks for the service people allowing us to gather in a free society.  And thank God for His continuous blessings.

I'm about to do a little bragging on two grandchildren.  Nothing new about that, is there?  We all do it when possible.  Or at least I do.

Grandson Josh was named "Outstanding Student of the Quarter" for his grade.  Way to go Josh!  You make us all proud of you.  Keep up the good work!

Son-in-law Joe directs the Peoria (IL) Area Civic Chorale.  Well, Kim (his wife and our daughter) and Kaelen (grandchild) are members of this group.  Monday the Chorale joined up with the Peoria Symphony for a concert of mostly Christmas music.  Joe chose Kaelen to sing a solo in the concert.  The next paragraph makes me proud of our Illinois family.

A reporter (Gary Panetta) of the Peoria Journal Star reviewed the performance as follows, and I quote:

The real standout, however, of the concert's second half was Kaelen E. Henry, Joseph Henry's daughter, who brought a radiant, supple voice to "O Holy Night."  Her voice was powerful enough that I think she could have done without the mike.

Joe will be conducting his last series of "A Family Christmas" concerts as he is about to take on new responsibilities at Eureka College.  He leaves the Civic Chorale after about 20 years.  Spouse and I have had the privilege to hear several of his concerts.  Wish we could be there for the finale, which we know will be spectacular!  Job well done!!

I'd be remiss if I didn't wish youngest daughter, Deb, a "Happy Birthday" this Thanksgiving day.  Hope someone brings a cake.  Haven't had any birthday cake since Saturday at Zack's party.  I'm still trying to lose 20 pounds.  However, I never pass on cake!!  It would be un-American!

Happy Turkey Day!

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

The Countdown: Eight

Words written today so far:  3,048.

As you know from yesterday's post, I need to average 3,039 per day.  So I had success today!

If I can do that each day for the remaining eight days of November, I will meet the NaNoWriMo challenge.

Some may say, "Easier said than done."

But I say, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...."

My Novel... Or Lack Thereof

I have not worked on my novel since last Wednesday.  My word count has been stuck at 22,657.

In order to meet the NaNoWriMo challenge, I need to be at 50,000 words before the end of the day on November 30.  I won't get anything done tonight, so I effectively have only nine days left.

I just did the math.  I will have to average 3,039 per day in order to make it.

Can I do it?

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can....

Where Was My Second Wind?

I have been very busy the past several days.

We went to church this morning, and when we got home I got caught up on a few things.

One thing I did NOT do, however, was work on my novel.  I hoped to do so tonight, but my mental energy level was (and still is) nonexistent.

But tomorrow is a new day, the start of a new week.  Hopefully I will have great things to report in my next post....

So be sure to check in tomorrow.

For now... G'Nite, all!

More Photos... By Eli

Tonight I went to my cousin Zack's birthday party!
My first birthday party ever!!!
But first we had dinner at Grampa's and Tia's house.



Momma and Daddy sat in their favorite spot at Grampa's.



Great-GrandPaPa sang "Happy Birthday" to cousin Zack.
You sing good, Great-GrandPaPa!



I met my cousins Zack and Josh for the first time!
I was so excited -- a little sleepy -- but excited.  :-)



Lew's Friday Off

Lew took the day off from work today. I planned a very relaxing day for him:

• Drop paperwork off at dentist's office
• Make a deposit at credit union
• Pick paperwork up at eye doctor's office
• Get Lew a haircut
• Meet with loan officer at credit union
• Have late lunch at Olive Garden
• Go grocery shopping
• Drop groceries at home
• Serve as volunteer staff at youth event
• Return home shortly after 10:00 p.m., tired and hungry

Lew's "note to self": Next time taking a day off, DON'T tell Tracy.

LOL!

The Sun Has Gone To Bed

Woke up with a headache this morning.

Wrote a grand total of zero words on my novel today, as I had to deal with something totally unrelated.

But at least I did start to feel better.

Had a scrumptious dinner out at Cracker Barrel with Lew and my parents.

On our way to dinner, Dad commented that it was like "driving at night."  It was before 6:00 p.m. at the time, and it was dark. 

It is now after 8:00 p.m., and I'm ready to go to sleep... just like the Sun.

Dad 71: A Nickname & Birthday Wishes

(Yes, I am very busy today.  But I've only managed to add 555 words to my word count so far.  Yikes!  So while I get back to writing my novel, you may enjoy Dad's post!  -- Tracy) 

Derf Here!

Still enjoying the great weather in the Northeast.  Temperatures are still reaching the 60's on pretty much a daily basis.  It sure has been welcome as we save on heating fuel.  It was great to get ready for winter in such great weather.  The bikes are stored.  Lew's and Glen's motorcycles are in the garage.  The Bantam and motor home are put to bed.  The wheels are wrapped up.  The A/C on the motor home is secured and the batteries are in the cellar.  The plow is on the Silverado and I'm personally ready for winter.  Bring it on!  March will be here before you know it.  At least I hope so!

This is a day of celebration for our family.  Our youngest grandson arrived in this world exactly eleven years ago.  He entered this world weighing ten pounds and four ounces.  He has continued to grow at a rapid pace.  Zachary Reed has a nickname.  His football coach is a wrestling fan and his favorite wrestler is someone called "Big Sexy."  His coach has given Zack this name.  I think that Zack is happy with it, but I have reservations.  Hopefully it will run its course and will dwindle away.  Please!

Still waiting for responses on Facebook for selective new friends.

Mainely Tracy is very busy today so I'm keeping my post short.

So "Happy Birthday" to Zack and we'll see you at your birthday celebration this Saturday.  Have a good supply of ice cream and cake!!

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

I Write! I Write! I Write!

When I posted on this blog yesterday, I had a cumulative word count of 16,418.  I did not add to that before going to bed.

I have just finished the writing that I am going to do for today.  I am pleased that my cumulative word count is now 20,968.  That means I wrote 4,550 words today!

Because the month is now half over, I should be at 25,000 words.  So, I'm still a little over 4,000 words behind.  I am happy with my progress, though.  I'm going to put in two more heavy word days tomorrow and Thursday.

Something that doesn't show up in the word count is time spent figuring things out for the story.  For instance, today I researched some tools that the characters use in my novel.  I consider that progress.  :)

Today's Word Count

I wrote exactly zero words of my novel today.

But I did go through all of the other little things that have been sitting in my in-basket, in my e-mail inbox, and in the corners of my mind.  I also went out and did a couple errands.

So tomorrow... I write!  I write!  I write!

And nothing is going to distract me, right?  Right!

The 30-Year Reunion

I graduated from high school in 1981.  I can't believe it's been 30 years!

Ellen picked me up about 6:30 last night and we went to our reunion.

Fortunately, one of the gals that organized the event brought her yearbook.  Otherwise, I would not have been able to connect some of the 30-year-later-faces with their 1981 version.

We stayed at the event for about 2 1/2 hours.  Then both Ellen and I started to droop.  But a lot of the other folks were getting tired, too.  What a difference 30 years makes in your stamina... LOL!

When we got out to Ellen's car, we realized we were hoarse from all of the talking and laughing that we had done.  Still, we talked the whole way home.  :)


I am in this picture.  Can you find me?

For the answer to "Where's Tracy?".......

The 20-Pound Whiskers

A few days ago my father announced that he would not shave again until he has lost twenty pounds.

He has kept his word so far -- about the not shaving, that is.

I would post a picture of him, but I'll spare my readers.

Plus, I'm sure you would rather see a new picture of Eli.  :)

A lazy Saturday with Momma.

Many Thanks On This Veterans' Day

Lew had the day off from work today due to the Veterans' Day holiday.  Thank you, Lew's employer!

We went out to breakfast with our breakfast buddies.  Dick said he was treating us to breakfast because Lew is a veteran.  (I argued with Dick that he shouldn't pay for me, as I'm not a veteran.  But he didn't listen to me.)  Thank you for breakfast, Dick and Carole!

For dinner we met Lew's buddy Steve at Applebee's.  Because they are both veterans, Steve and Lew got their entrees for free.  Thank you, Applebee's!

But most of all, a THANK YOU to all of our country's veterans - today and every day.

Blog-gledygook

I made up some good ground writing my novel over the past couple days.

Yay, me.

But it's too bad that very little of it is good enough to stick around for the published product.  (I'm being positive about the "published" part.)

Trying to reach a 50,000 word count in just 30 days?  Not sure about that.  The word "crazy" comes to mind.

Still... I maintain that this challenge is worth it.  Although I will have to literally throw out most of my first draft, it has been exciting to see where the story goes by just letting my fingers keep typing -- not worrying about editing, just typing the story as it comes.

The quality of my blog may be suffering (except for Derf's posts, of course!), but just think -- someday you will be holding my first novel.... Hopefully!

Dad 70: You'll Always Sound Precocious

(Mark Zuckerberg should hire Derf as a spokesperson!  Enjoy Dad's post.  -- Tracy)

Derf Here!

From the Northeast, enjoying late summer weather.  It has been a beautiful Fall with temps in the sixties.  Rain is predicted for tomorrow.  We still have remnants of snow where it was piled up and the sun was lacking.

Derf has been busy this week.  Facebook is occupying some time as I attempt to keep up with the heavy demand.  Still looking for new friends.  So, if you're friendly with Spouse, it's possible Derf will accept new members.  I will be selective!  I'm learning new facts about Facebook daily.  I'm now carrying on messaging with friends while online.  Sometimes my typing skills are questionable and my spelling is suspect.  I could become addicted!  World!  Watch Out!!

A few weeks (months) ago I predicted a sweep of Boston teams for championships.  This was right after the Bruins won the Stanley Cup.  Well, since then the Sox (Red) did not make the playoffs.  They collapsed the last month of the season.  They didn't just falter, they COLLAPSED!  The Patriots started the season quite well but their game is now suffering.  They stopped scoring thirty points per game and look very beatable.  The Celtics are tied up with the league/players clash that shows the greed of both sides (players/owners).  I assume this will be settled today and a season is likely.  Neither side wants to give up billions of dollars.  I now predict that no Boston teams will win their ultimate goal.  NO CHAMPIONSHIPS!  Not what I wanted, but what will happen.

Spouse and I just returned from a shopping expedition.  We (she) purchased a few things for Christmas and then we ate lunch out.  Very enjoyable.  At the same time we dropped the RV off to be winterized, have it checked for a propane leak, and get the propane tank refilled.  We enjoyed our 2,800 mile trip to Illinois and Indiana and will wrap the RV up for another Maine winter.  Please be gentle with snowfall and temperature.  Thank you, Lord!

Next Spring, will service RV and get ready for Kelsey's graduation.  Perhaps prior to this, Glen, Deb, and Josh and Zack will take a trip in the RV for a week in April.  Then to Kelsey's graduation.

Speaking of graduation, Erik Swanson (Kelsey's pastor's son) took senior pictures for Kelsey.  You can all see them on Facebook.  My evaluation of them is "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious."  (Excuse the spelling, but they are that good.)  I want to take credit for the beauty but I can not do that in good conscience.  Maybe both her grandmas can take credit.  I think they can!

To you not on Facebook, it would be worth your effort to connect with Derf and to see Kelsey's pictures.

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

NaNoWriMo Update

Since tomorrow will be Dad's weekly post, I thought I should take today to update you on how my novel-writing is going.

As I shared in an earlier post, the NaNoWriMo challenge is to have 50,000 words written during the month of November.  As of right now (approximately 7:30 p.m. EST), I have 10,900 words written!

Before you give me too many kudos, please know that I am behind on my word count.  I need to average 1,667 words per day in order to make the 50,000 word goal.  So eight days into the month, I should be at 13,336 words.

I'm glad that I have the 10,900, but I better get a boogie on!

Senior Pictures

I just spent a few minutes on Facebook looking at Kelsey's senior pictures -- all 84 of them.

She had about four different outfits throughout the shoot (one outfit was her cheerleading uniform).  There were indoor shots and outdoor shots.  In some photos she was standing.  In others she was sitting on a bench or on the ground.  There were some pictures of her posing with a piano.

I believe that one of her friends took the pictures for her.  I'm not sure how she's going to be able to choose just one for her yearbook.  They all are great!

Photography has come a long way since I had my senior year photos taken 31 years ago.  None of this digital camera stuff where you get to see your pictures right away.  Way back then you got some proofs in the mail, and then you could pick whichever shot was the least ugly.  Yep... those were the days.

The Day of Eli

Eli had a good day today.

I am referring to Eli Manning, the quarterback for the New York Giants.

In the last minute of today's football game, his touchdown pass beat the New England Patriots.  Boo hoo....

Our friends Dick and Carole were actually at the game.  They are both Giants fans, but I love them anyway.

I sent Carole a text message after the game ended:  "Stinky!"

She responded:  "No that was OchoSTINKY!"

And then she sent:  "Or is it OchoStinko!"

I laughed out loud:  "LOL!!!!"

Carole, you may have something there.  Next time Chad Ochocinco decides to change his name, OchoStinko would be quite fitting....

And as for our own special Eli, don't you all want to see another photo?  So sweet!  :)

My Good Energy

The other day as I was walking home from my walk with Ellen, I ran into a gal who walks both of her dogs every day -- weather permitting.

We stopped and chatted for a few minutes.  She walks only one dog at a time -- always in the same order -- and she was just finishing up her walk with Dog #2.

As we talked, Dog #2 came over to me and I started to scratch her head.  Her owner -- after making sure I was OK with her dog cozying up to me like that -- said, "Gee, she really never gets like that with anyone."

I then explained that dogs seem to be drawn to me.  Lew would even agree with this.  We took a beach walk with some friends once and told them about my being a dog magnet.  And sure enough, during that walk, a dog came running right toward me.

After telling this story to Dog #2's owner, she said, "You must really give off a good energy."

That must be it.  Maybe I am a Dog Whisperer!

More Photos... By Eli



Daddy says this is his favorite picture of me so far!



Mommy and Daddy took me to meet Great-Grammy tonight!

I got to meet Great-Uncle Wayne, too.
I will just call him Uncle Wayne, as the "Great" goes without saying.
This photo is a little blurry -- I am still a bit squirmy, you know!

Grampa and Tia were at Great-Grammy's tonight, too.
Grampa is wearing a John Wayne tee-shirt.
Are YOU John Wayne, Grampa?



Four generations of the Tibbetts family.
I really DID try to cooperate for this picture!



Meet the Family

Dad, Mom, Debbie, and I paid a visit to Emily and Eli today.  Dad and Debbie were meeting Eli for the first time.

When we arrived at the house, guess whose vehicle was parked in front?

Answer:  Grampa Lew's!

He couldn't bear the thought that we were visiting without him, so he left work for a bit so he could be there, too.

Grampa was holding Eli when we went into the house... but not for long.  Debbie grabbed the baby right out of Lew's arms.  And she lived to tell about it!  Ha ha!

It was especially nice to see Emily with her baby in her own home.  Motherhood suits her.  :)

A one-day-late "Happy Birthday" to Matt.  Here's a picture of Eli celebrating:


"I'm so excited about Daddy's birthday
that I can't stand it!!"



Dad 69: Mow to Snow!

(As I typed in Dad's final paragraph, I was reminded of a project I'm supposed to help him with today.  No rest for the weary.... LOL!  Enjoy Dad's post!  --  Tracy)

Derf Here!

From the snow-covered Northeast.  There are still several thousand people without power in this area of the country.  We received only 5 to 6 inches of snow and our power didn't even flicker.  However, on a beautiful sunny summer day with no wind, we will have a loss of power for an instant -- but not in the middle of a severe snow, windy storm.  Some towns in our area received 20 inches (Acton).  Bridgton received 17 inches.  We lucked out on the amount, being on the coast.  Thank you, Lord!

Over the weekend Kelsey's Eureka High School band received the third place state trophy at Illinois State University.  They had hoped for a better finish but had a very successful year.  Congrats to Kelsey, Ali, and company.

Prior to the storm I put my plow on the pickup and I will not remove it until there is no chance of more winter weather!  After our snow melts I'll probably look a little foolish driving around with a plow until winter really arrives.  I will not, however, remove it until Spring.

Saturday afternoon I mowed my lawn.  Saturday night it snowed.  In all my years on this earth -- and they are many -- I have never mowed a lawn the same day it was covered with snow.  Hence the title "Mow to Snow!"  When the snow melts totally -- and it will -- I will clean up our yard of fallen branches.  We did have one limb crash to earth in this event.  Our lawn looks as green as it does in June.  Please don't allow too much snow to fall this winter!  Thank you, Lord!  Please cooperate!

Halloween has come and gone.  I purchased three large bags of candy.  I know we'll have at most a handful of "Treaters."  Only grandsons and friends will show up.  This year we had grandsons and friends, a total of four.  However, my two bowls of goodies were reduced to one upon their exit.  That is why I buy junk food that we like!  Around the corner from us where Glen, Debbie, and grandsons live, the "Treaters" numbered around one hundred (100).  That is what happens in the "hood!"

Today I will be getting my own Facebook identity.  I have been using Spouse's (Mary Lou Gowen), but she wants me to get my own.  I'm starting to converse with friends when online and she doesn't want people thinking she is the communicator.  It seems logical to me.  So I will be carefully picking out my future friends.  I will be limiting it to family and real close friends.  Look for me on Facebook.

Until next time!

Toodle Pip!

Derf!

Two Big Things In My Life Right Now

NaNoWriMo

My word count for today = 1,989.

In order to reach the 50,000 mark by November 30th, I have to average 1,667 words per day.  So I'm off to a good start!


Eli

Time to share a new photo!  Emily posted this one on Facebook today.


Emily:  "Never knew I could love this much"



NaNoWriMo

NaNoWriMo is short for "National Novel Writing Month."  This event is held each November.  The challenge is to write 50,000 words by the end of the month.

With some trepidation, I have decided to participate in NaNoWriMo this year.  At the end of each day, I will update my total word count on the NaNoWriMo website.  Once I hit the 50,000 word count, there is a verification process on the website.  The prize is ... Ta Da! ... a Winner's Certificate.  (The real prize, of course, is a finished novel.  It will be subject to much editing, but it's a really good start!)

The event website has a "buddy" section.  I have one "buddy" so far -- a friend from college who participated last year.  So I'm glad that I have at least one other person to commiserate with.  And I'm sure that Mainely Tracy readers will get their fill of how I'm doing.... LOL!

If you're interested in learning more about NaNoWriMo -- or maybe even participating yourself -- check out the website at:  http://www.nanowrimo.org/

I start tomorrow.  Wish me luck!