Monday, December 26, 2022

My neighbors invited me to dinner. I always enjoy their sweet companionship, and as a slurpy kicker, Frank and Annette were planning to go full steam and cook a prime rib. They would serve veggies grown in their huge greenhouse. My candid photos do their Christmas table little justice.

The evening’s companions also were Jill and Jeff, who are lifelong friends with Frank and Annette.

Those two have been (it seems forever) rebuilding their home, from scratch, and all by themselves. They described having recently moved into its first-finished section, which turned out beautifully, and they’re delighted. Like Frank and Annette, they are serious gardeners and grow much of their own food.

My friendship with Frank and Annette goes beyond our common fence over which we often chat. We share a deep love for animals. They and I have dogs and chickens. Here, Frank does his magic (treats!) for their eager puppies.

I didn’t get photos of Annette. Well, I did, but of her backside, as she was busy cooking.

Annette is a special needs teacher with a passion for her work. She’s an expert in recognizing each needy student’s individuality. She explains that assisting individuals starts with encouraging them to achieve. By gaining a student’s trust, she can help them reset their sights. Their actual “moving forward” may begin when they can identify realistic and achievable goals.

With this group, there’s never any dull conversation. We’re each unique, with long life experiences and the verbal skills to share our learnings and thoughts.

The evening and dinner were great! They offset nicely, that afterwards, I went trudging into the darkness and slippery wetness, to haul hay to my horses.

This, for my dear Cousin Mary, shows me wearing the aspen leaf she sent.

Dear Friends: A giant salute to good weather, fine companionship, and excellent cooking. Diana

Sunday, Christmas Day, December 25, 2022

Today, no “bah humbugs” from me. Our weather’s warm–as in very warm in these “darkest days” of the year. And important friends have been in touch. It’s warming to be reassured that long time friends are healthy and productive, and that they still read my blog.

Last Wednesday was the shortest day of this year. Right afterwards I began counting each new daylight’s additional seconds. I am optimistic about possible happenings in the New Year. High on my list of hopes is for the war in Ukraine to conclude, with that nation’s guaranteed independence, and a healthy renewal of its mighty ability to produce food. Ukraine’s assets help to feed this hungry world. I’ll speak again to optimism on New Year’s Day.

The header photo especially for my friend, Mary Martini, shows her fav, Chase, two days ago. He’s almost ten months old. Mary, you chose well, as usual, for he’s a love, still has a “soft-puppy” feel, is sweet, smart, and unflappable.

The PNW area should according to experts enjoy more of this unusually warm weather. My resolution before the New Year arrives to go hiking with the dogs. I’ll use a stop-action camera to record their antics and post new pictures. If truly this warmth holds on, I’ll go horseback riding.

Warm weather invites us to make the most of these shortest days.

Once again, Mr. Irresistible.

Dear Friends: Wishes to all, for a wonderful day with friends, good food, and optimism. Diana

Saturday (Christmas Eve), December 24, 2022

After Central Oregon’s string of icy cold days, through which I mostly stayed inside, today’s opening temperature is a tolerable 39 degrees. Everywhere, the weather through last week was a short wild ride. Today, if as predicted, this area’s high approaches 50 degrees, tomorrow might be a balmy Christmas Day.

At least, a hefty snowpack in our nearby mountains might provide adequate water for next season’s farming. The last couple of years, with drought conditions and water rationing, meant fewer farm yields and frighteningly high prices. We with large animals worry about finding enough (and affordable) hay. This year’s snowy wet weather might increase water availability, yield more good hay, and reduce the costs to produce and purchase.

Weather outside aside, and what’s doing inside: I’m reading a fun first novel, Lessons in Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus. An ex-copywriter, Garmus is an excellent writer, creative and confident. Her novel takes place in the early sixties when women workers were unequal in every way (except for intelligence) to men. They received lesser working roles, less pay, fewer promotions; and they had to dress certain ways, not become pregnant, and were victimized by lechery.

Garmus’ character model for the book was her mother, who during the 1950’s could not write a check without her husband’s co-signature on it, had no legal right to her husband’s paycheck, could not hold a job while pregnant, and could not have her name added on the home’s title. In the book, the lead character is a productive woman scientist who manages to ignore some typical workplace restrictions. She’s helped by a male partner, a famously productive chemist with any workplace arrangement he wants.

The two leads have a mongrel dog, named “Eleven-Thirty.” I laughed aloud, and even more, on learning that Garmus’ own real-life dog is named “NinetyNine.” I happen to have a little Collie-X, named “Osix,” and for years have fielded questions about her name. Now I’m vindicated, with kudos to Garmus!

I recommend this book, a straightforward, easy read with twists and humor. Its sixties setting will remind some readers of times past and will inform others. Great cold weather, indoors entertainment.

Dear Friends: It’s good recalling times past and progress made, by women, but no ERA. Diana

Friday, December 23, 2022

Heat wave today! This morning’s temperature is in the low twenties, and this afternoon’s will reach the forties.

Yesterday, I made five trips out into the blistering cold. The long-standing snow, a day before, had melted slightly and become slick. Onto it a layer of new snow disguised the slickest spots. I walked very carefully. Above, the sky resembled a deep freeze, bland and cloudless.

Each time I was ready to take care of the outside animals, I let the dogs outside. The puppies handled the cold by running and playing. Twelve-year-old, Ranger, huddled, and Miles and Osix seemed okay. The dogs were eager as I to return inside to warmth again.

Outside, a layer of snow covered the horses’ backs. They welcomed the hay-drops. The chickens and turkeys stayed in their shelters; the dwarf goat refused to step beyond her quarters. I made sure all had adequate food and water.

About outside watering devices, thankfully the trough and bucket heaters were working correctly. I worry about the horse troughs. If their GFCI fails and water heaters stop working, troughs can freeze thickly. Sometimes the water is too thick to crack with a hammer. I’ve been there! In extreme cold, if I manage to crack ice, it will re-freeze and too quickly to serve the horses.

Days of single-digit temperatures are trials for all life, wild animals, pets, and humans. One or two such days are more than enough for me. I can imagine the extensive preparations and experiences of people facing longer very cold climates. Here’s to remember though: humans are adaptable and creative. I suppose I’d figure out how to get along in more challenging atmospheres.

While reading Sofia Tolstoy’s Diaries, I was struck by her frequent references to a current temperature, like -10 degrees or -20 degrees. Thoughts of cold winter Russia cower me, but people live there and survive and thrive. It’s a sign, too, of geographical forces, that Russians are focused on destroying Ukraine’s heat sources in this deep winter.

Dear Friends: The world is larger than we sometimes pause to reflect on and wonder about. Diana

Thursday, December 22, 2022

We were warned that harsh weather would arrive. Now, it’s early and very cold outside, with new snow on the ground. The current temperature is 4 degrees, and the predicted high is 13 degrees. By the way, we are expecting rain. Today’s cold could turn rain into hail.

We are prepared, aware of key coping activities:

1. Stay warm: Have warm outside clothing, a coat, scarf, hat, gloves, and boots. Wear layers that trap heat to keep your body warm, whether outside or inside.
2. Stay active: If you can’t go outside, do indoor exercises or activities. Being active helps to keep you warm and reduces any feelings of cabin fever.
3. Stay connected: Avoid feeling isolated by connecting with friends and family, through phone calls, video chats, or other virtual means. Social support provides a sense of connection that can lift a mood.
4. Stay engaged: Keep busy and engaged during the day, by reading, watching movies, cooking, or engaging in a hobby.
5. Stay informed: Stay up to date on the weather and make sure you’re prepared for any potential hazards.

Numbers one and five are biggies for ranchers and farmers. We must trek outside several times daily and personal safety is as significant as keeping our animals safe. We are outside in freezing and rainy by having:

1. Dressed in layers and covered areas particularly vulnerable to cold: head, hands, and feet.
2. Protected from the elements with a waterproof coat, an umbrella, and a face mask or scarf against wind and cold.
3. Kept hydrated, yes!, even while outside in cold weather, drinking plenty of fluids.
4. Planned for breaks, if outside for an extended period, to warm up or to rest.
5. Remembered the signs of hypothermia, a dangerous condition when a body temperature drops too low; and knowing its symptoms: shivering, feeling tired, being confused.
6. Kept aware of weather forecasts and potential hazards, like ice on the ground and strong winds.

Remembering the rules helps me wrap my head around this day and those ahead with similar challenges. Coping with harsh winter weather stresses the values of preparation, self-care, and community. It embraces staying healthy and engaged, even in challenging circumstances.

Dear Friends: Sharing with the community, these reminders and rationale to myself. Diana

Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Tonight, anticipated winds rolling in are to measure very low on the wind chill index. We’re warned the winds could bring chills measuring -10 or -20 degrees. Hopefully, those winds won’t begin until after I’ve given today’s last feedings to my outside animals. For the dogs and me, the target is to be inside the house.

Yesterday was a bit warmer, just enough to slicken snow that’s already standing, and we’re warned of possible new snow today. Since it’s unlikely to warm up again anytime soon, this December’s ending might be bitter and dark.

Offsetting the cold and darkness are indoor celebrations. Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and others, brighten the year’s ending. A focus on the inside, family, friends, gifts, and food, makes for community warmth and shorter times outside.

I keep in mind those offsets to unpleasant weather while still preparing for whatever today might offer.

Dear Friends: It’s time to strap on my spikes and head outside. Diana

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

I screwed up yesterday. Jews aren’t celebrating Passover this week, but Hanukkah. After publishing and considering my mistake, I had to admit that my favorite Jewish holiday is Passover. Sorry, friends, ’twas a slip of the tongue, or in yesterday’s blog, of my fingers.

Today should be a bit warmer and hopefully will create some melting-off. It would be pleasant to roam without having spikes on my boots, although that wouldn’t last. The predicted weather is a new storm coming and bringing very high winds and more snow.

To me, this region’s entire November and December seem colder than in the past couple of years. Contributing to my perception are consistently low double-digit temperatures and long-standing snow. Ah, too, the spikes daily strapped onto my boots.

Today, ahead of anticipated harsh weather, my efforts will be to get ready. That means ensuring adequate supplies of feed for the outside animals, and also, good sheltering for them. I will gas up the snowblowers and have on hand plenty of spikes.

Experience always is the best teacher. From time to time, situations will differ. One learns to cope by understanding what to do, in case, and having critical supplies and tools available, in case.

Dear Friends: Prepare, stay warm, take care, and soon enjoy daylight’s lengthening. Diana

Monday, December 19, 2022

Happy Passover!

I don’t actively celebrate this holiday which was important in my past. My parents were reared in Orthodox households, and many key religious observations drifted to their children. My eldest sister was very family oriented and made sure everybody, including me, celebrated every Jewish holiday. I happily recall those events full of family generosity.

I have lighted candles for my two older sisters. They guided and supported me, to the best of their abilities. I always miss them!

Now, to tilt forward:

I know next to nothing about soccer, but couldn’t resist watching the World Cup competition, an exciting show of flexible athletes, wild fans, and barely restrained announcers. That event was a Pure Picture, of Passion on the Field!

Today, the January 6th Committee will hold a final public meeting. Its public meetings have demonstrated outstanding political teamwork, with capable leadership, bi-partisanship, professionalism, and efficiency. I’ll watch today and hope this Committee’s examples will foster other politically-oriented, public, and sensible group efforts.

Snow’s still on the ground, and this morning’s temp (slightly) is warmer. This day will be another inside, unless a melting occurs. If so, I’ll call the dogs, and we’ll go hiking, somewhere scenic.

Dear Friends: Nearing this cold winter’s shortest day (or longest night), and then, longer daylights. Diana

Sunday, December 18, 2022

Yesterday, I finished reading all fifty years of Sofia Tolstoy’s Dairies. They begin when Sofia was eighteen and first met Tolstoy. She documented her learnings through years in a complex marriage, multiple pregnancies, mothering children, and managing Tolstoy’s intellectual property and large estate. Her dairies through the late Eighteenth Century are grinding reminders of a past when women had few (if any) choices, except to marry and practice almost total submission to the husband’s decisions. Through Sofia, a modern reader sees Tolstoy as a spoiled-rotten tyrant. In her late notes, Sofia speaks to the wisdom of absorbing a genius’s words, and not living with a genius.

Today will be another cold one, and I’ll start reading a new book: In Love, by Amy Bloom. In the NYT it was highly reviewed by one (like me) who wasn’t familiar with Bloom’s writing: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/01/books/review-in-love-memoir-amy-bloom.html

Lists of uncorrectable health conditions nowadays are ever-more consuming. World populations are aging and health conditions, once estimated unique, now are common worries. The fine author, Lisa Genova, a trained neuroscientist, writes compellingly about numerous physical/mental conditions. Genova has helped populations know the ways some key diseases show up, and over time, changes that they cause.

Amy Bloom’s husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and decided he didn’t want to live through the disease. The two researched if he might legally take his own life when he wanted. They found only one place in the world that could allow that without restrictions. They traveled to Switzerland for the procedure, and Bloom’s story is of their process, emotionally and physically.

Dear Friends: As progress, most of us have made it through two years of the worldwide pandemic. Diana

Saturday, December 17, 2022

This is a bitterly cold morning. My pellet stove blasts away and hot coffee hits the spot. I’ve begun wrapping my head around having to suit up and trek outside. There, I’ll distribute hay for my horses and dwarf goat, check that drinking sources are full and unfrozen, and top off chicken feeders. Those done, I can retreat to my house’s creature comforts.

If it weren’t necessary to venture outside several times to care for animals, I’d not mind this unending stretch of freezing days of deep snow that can’t melt. We who live where snow and freezing occur know the value of keeping on hand plenty of water and food. Sometimes we face a string of housebound days. That’s me today and through more days, if necessary. No need to leave home.

Equal to planning for plenty to eat and drink, our brains have needs. I have a couple of such things in the pipeline. One is continuing to work my way through Sofie Tolstoy’s Diary, which I’ve half-finished. Interestingly, halfway through it, her husband, Leo Tolstoy, who’s much older than Sofie is unwell. Over their years together, Sofie has grown intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Maybe today, I will reach the part where her husband passes away, and then read about her own artistic evolution. Sofie authored many books herself.

Another item on my burner is the 1972 movie, “Sounder.” It’s streaming on the Criterion Channel. The cast includes Paul Winfield and Cicely Tyson, other terrific actors, and also, a Coonhound, Sounder. It’s a story of an African-American farming family, in 1930s rural Louisiana. I’ve loved this great movie forever and look forward to seeing it again.

Those are some highlights of this “snow day.”

Now, I’ll start a chicken cooking in the crock pot before heading outside and caring for critters.

Dear Friends: Always be prepared, that Boy Scout motto serves over a lifetime. Diana