Sharonbw stands with Minnesota

Retired educator, mom + grandma to daughters, granddaughters + rescue cats. I'm an introvert and spend lots of time researching family history, reading, gardening and walking.

Job:: Retired!
Interests:: [#genealogy](https://mastodon.online/tags/genealogy ) [#nature](https://mastodon.online/tags/nature ) [#cats](https://mastodon.online/tags/cats ) [#politics](https://mastodon.online/tags/politics ) [#books](https://mastodon.online/tags/books ) [#books](https://mastodon.online/tags/books ) [#quilting](https://mastodon.online/tags/quilting )
Twitter:: NOPE

Public Key

npub1fg6q22zuhat9f5qc86lqyehcsu6sxwdfuk27xml6864lxmgjgn0qxu26du

NIP-05 Address

[email protected]

Profile Code

nprofile1qqsy5dq99pwt74j56qvra0szvmugwdgr8x57t90rdlara2lnd5fyfhspz3mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfduqs6amnwvaz7tmwdaejumr0ds0fhfq0

Publishing to

relay.damus.io

nos.lol

Author Public Key

npub1fg6q22zuhat9f5qc86lqyehcsu6sxwdfuk27xml6864lxmgjgn0qxu26du

Show more details

Last Notes

2026-03-26 23:55:36 GMT

- reply

Our allergy season isn't in full swing yet, though it will be soon. Exhausting is right - it's like wearing lead boots.
Good job on the taxes!

2026-02-26 13:45:12 GMT

- reply

He's probably formulating a plan to escape.

2026-02-22 13:23:53 GMT

- reply

Hmm. I may get this book. I need to up my southern cooking game to impress my son-in-law from Louisiana.

2026-02-15 14:11:57 GMT

This is what happens in our house if you leave a drawer open for any length of time. Cats own everything.
#CatsOfMastodon
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/116/075/020/552/379/461/original/1e9eb864fea201ca.jpeg

2026-01-08 13:38:04 GMT

- reply

I'm breathing as deeply as I can. 🫶

2026-01-06 00:42:41 GMT

- reply

I can't wait to see it when it's finished.

2025-12-26 12:40:00 GMT

- reply

I’m living vicariously through your posts. I would have needed to work in a nap. 😄

2025-12-24 12:49:42 GMT

- reply

Who started that whole IG pose anyway?

2025-12-23 13:47:45 GMT

Good morning! I slept in this morning + am enjoying the quiet until my daughter and SIL wake up. Then we’ll see what’s up for the day.
I’ll be in the kitchen more often than usual this week, but I don’t mind. My favorite holiday moments are often at the sink, overhearing teasing, laughter and different groups of family catching up with each other.
Of course there’s a lot of juggling + compromise that is stressful. But I don’t have all 3 daughters together often. It’s with it.
#Today

2025-12-22 12:56:59 GMT

- reply

I’m late to this saga. What a horrible experience! I hope your travel moving forward goes smoothly and safely so your nerves can recover. ❤️ 🤗

2025-12-07 13:50:08 GMT

- reply

"Practice" is a hard one to beat, but if anyone can come up with a new word, I am confident you can.

2025-12-03 14:10:12 GMT

- reply

It's always good to plan. Do you have anyone in Florence that could help keep an eye on possibilities?

2025-11-25 12:39:25 GMT

Good morning. Today is my 25th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to believe. Like the old cliche, we are opposites. He’s an extrovert who speaks his mind no matter what, while I am a confirmed introvert who usually tries to smooth things over. He can fix anything mechanical. I get nervous changing light bulbs. He’s driven to stay busy while I could spend a day reading.
Somehow we make it work. We both love each other and the life we’ve built. The adventure continues.
#Today

2025-10-19 11:51:08 GMT

- reply

At yesterday’s No Kings rally I had a brief conversation with another protester. As we parted ways she offered me a paper clip in the shape of a heart. She asked if I knew the significance and I assured her I did.
I thought of you and wanted to let you know I’ve noticed yours. If I was technologically savvy I’d follow your lead.

2025-10-10 12:13:02 GMT

- reply

Some days putting one foot in front of the other is the practice. Hope your day gets steadily better.

2025-07-30 23:28:45 GMT

- reply

Good exercise. How many cords is that?

2025-07-14 12:26:37 GMT

Good morning and happy #BastilleDay for those who celebrate. I once worked with a guy who was a big Francophile. Every July 14 he would stand and sing La Marseillaise with gusto, reminiscent of a scene from Casablanca. 🇫🇷 The memory still makes me smile.
I hope you find something to smile about today, to start your week off on the right foot.
#Today

2025-07-09 01:42:58 GMT

Finally home. Doctor thinks my daughter’s pain is muscular, originating in her back. He got her pain under control and gave her prescriptions for muscle relaxers and pain. She’ll check with her regular doctor in a few days. Really serious stuff has been ruled out.
I’m heading to bed.

2025-07-01 12:09:58 GMT

Good morning! July is welcoming me with temperatures above 80F before 8 am. Cooler temperatures are promised for tomorrow. I hope so.
I should go out + walk now but the motivation isn’t there. Thunderstorms will probably prevent me from walking late this afternoon, but that’s a risk easy to make right now.
Yesterday we saw some of our corn is starting to produce tassels. We’ve never tried corn before so this is a fun development. It helps offset our peppers’ slow growth.
#Today

2025-06-30 21:05:21 GMT

- reply

I didn't know there was going to be a movie. It was a great book, and I'm not sure a movie could ever do it justice, but I'm going to find out.

2025-06-21 11:05:03 GMT

- reply

If I drank cold white wine all day I’d barely make it til early afternoon. 😄

2025-06-12 12:41:57 GMT

Good Thursday morning. It's already 76F on the way to 90F+, so I'm off early to run a bunch of errands. Once I get those done I'll park myself in the AC.
Yesterday I got my weeding done. Even waiting until the worst of the afternoon temperatures had passed it was a hot and sweaty job. I'll take a break from that today. I'm hoping it will also give my back a chance to stop complaining. Some gentle stretching will be all I'll do today.
Have a pleasant day!
#Today

2025-06-07 13:19:24 GMT

- reply

Your day lilies are lovely! Mine still have a few weeks to go before they bloom. I love them as they are maintenance-free and beautiful at the same time.

2025-05-29 13:39:15 GMT

- reply

Whew indeed! I tensed up just seeing "IRS". What a relief in the way it turned out!
Isn't it amazing how just seeing a letter from IRS can generate anxiety? I'm thinking you're a "rule follower" like me. That seems to be a mistake in today's world.

2025-05-27 23:53:35 GMT

- reply

It's nice to change things up every once in a while. Happy reading!

2025-05-21 23:22:31 GMT

- reply

Hope the tests come back with good results. Doesn't practically everyone need to lose a few pounds? In today's world I tend to self-medicate with a bowl of ice cream every night.

2025-05-21 13:41:00 GMT

- reply

Sending good thoughts. 🤗

2025-05-08 18:11:22 GMT

- reply

Hadn't thought of taxes. But they can't increase your taxes even more if you continue to develop and improve your garden, right?

2025-05-08 16:46:38 GMT

- reply

How wonderful to be recognized for all your efforts!

2025-05-08 13:22:29 GMT

Good morning! A neighbor showed up for lunch yesterday. He didn’t say much, just ate some greens and went on his way. 😊
I never know who’s going to show up around here, but he’s much more welcome than the grouchy snappers!
#Today
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/114/472/383/961/891/483/original/b6a61adf89b88a97.jpeg

2025-05-02 21:34:52 GMT

- reply

We’ve already got mosquitoes!
My repellent routine has started. 😑

2025-04-27 14:08:59 GMT

- reply

It's especially true for me now that I'm retired. Grocery stores are about the only places I shop. 😉

2025-04-27 13:00:07 GMT

Happy #SofaSunday! It’s a lovely sunny day here, viewed through the window. In reality the ground is squishy and the wind is blowing chilly air.
Yesterday’s plans for slacking were interrupted by an impromptu shopping trip with my daughter and granddaughter. I’m not a shopper, so it was a labor of love, but we were successful in finding a dress for the end-of-the-year dance next month.
I have promised myself a day of quiet relaxation. I hope your day brings you enjoyment!
#Today

2025-04-21 12:11:59 GMT

- reply

I saw your post last night, but never imagined smoke like that! I hope it’s extinguished soon and the smoke dissipates.

2025-04-15 13:58:53 GMT

Good morning. One of the good things about being me is that I cope with stress by cleaning. (Don’t ask me why, it’s just how I’m built.) As a result, I’ve already gotten laundry done + put away, washed the kitchen floor and vacuumed.
Yesterday on my walk I came across a number of lady slipper wildflower plants starting to sprout in the woods. They do every year about now. Not a big deal, just a reminder to me that some good things remain a constant. Thank goodness.
#Today

2025-04-15 00:25:18 GMT

- reply

Just life in the United States. Some days it's too much.

2025-04-14 23:54:32 GMT

- reply

Thank you for this bit of beauty. It's especially appreciated today. 💗

2025-04-11 12:21:33 GMT

Good morning! We’re hitting the road for home. I’m looking forward to seeing the kitties and sleeping in my own bed tonight.
Still, it’s always tough to say goodbye to mom. Talking on the phone every few days is just not the same as spending time together, face to face. I remind myself that we’ll be back soon, but there’s always lingering sense of melancholy whenever we leave.
Have a good Friday, everyone.
Make the best of your day!
#Today

2025-04-09 12:18:40 GMT

Good Wednesday morning! We’re off to grab breakfast before spending the day with my mother. It’s an easy agenda- enjoying her company and reorganizing her closet. The heavy clothes of winter will be put away and out will come her “springier” clothes.
I hope your day is a good one!
#Today

2025-04-08 23:47:20 GMT

We made it to NJ and spent a good day with my Mom. I was going to avoid any political talk, but it’s hard to avoid it. She reports that most of the people in her assisted living facility think that our current President is out of his mind and doesn’t know what he’s doing. She will be 98 in two months and has been a Republican most of her life.
The next time you think you have a demographic figured out, think again.

2025-04-05 13:52:56 GMT

Good morning + happy #SlackerdaySaturday. As always, Slackerday is always the goal, but today some of my family and I have other plans. We'll be attending the local #HandsOff rally to be a visible statement of our resistance to the current administration.
My introvert self is nervous. More nervous that I was in 2017 when I attended the Women's March. The times are weirder now. But I'll forge ahead and use the voice I have.
Have a good day!

2025-04-03 14:02:28 GMT

We all need a little bit of beauty today. This is the first wild violet I’ve spotted this season.
#Today
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/114/274/352/676/396/032/original/16af9763c7800937.jpeg

2025-04-02 14:58:18 GMT

- reply

Well, at least I have my knitting, bird watching and gardening going for me!

2025-03-25 12:03:46 GMT

Good Tuesday morning! The sun is just coming over the trees and there's a slight mist over our small pond, making it a picturesque morning.
Today I'll find some excuse to work outside and get my hands dirty. The birdbath needs some serious cleaning, and I'll look for weeds to pull, though there aren't many yet. Walking around the pond is always a must, to check on the lily pads + the tiny fish that are starting to show up. These things keep me sane during crazy times.
#Today

2025-03-21 12:04:32 GMT

- reply

You’ll feel so much lighter when all that is gone. Any plans for the space you gain?
My move to MD after 30 years in PA convinced me that accumulation of “stuff” has a giant downside. I’ve tried to avoid that ever since.

2025-03-15 17:02:21 GMT

- reply

I understand you're bummed about your own damage, but from the looks of this you really dodged what could have been much worse.

2025-03-05 01:50:01 GMT

- reply

I’m just going to take a wild guess that the neighbor is hard of hearing and has the volume turned up.

2025-02-16 13:09:09 GMT

- reply

I dislike change but am old enough to accept it as inevitable. The hope that the changes are manageable has become a personal daily mantra.

2025-02-09 00:30:10 GMT

- reply

I grew up singing in the church choir. It really is good for the soul.
Nowadays I love singing when I’m driving, with the music turned up.

2025-02-07 14:48:28 GMT

Good news from my surgeon! The pathology reports all came out negative for cancer. No sign of malignancy. Taking a giant deep breath!

2025-02-04 21:04:23 GMT

- reply

Your mama has made great progress! What an accomplishment.

2025-02-04 00:31:26 GMT

- reply

Not having to drive so far will make things far easier! Will Buddy still be able to visit? I hope the transition goes smoothly. 💗

2025-02-03 22:16:15 GMT

- reply

Just saw this from over the weekend. This is HUGE. Such wonderful news!

2025-01-30 15:51:54 GMT

- reply

Placing blame is the only thing he knows how to do.

2025-01-27 14:44:18 GMT

- reply

I LOVE having the house to myself. I doesn't happen nearly enough. I love my life, but there's something lovely about being free to do whatever I want without being interrupted. I'm also in the same boat as you with the cooking. If the spouse is around and I'm cooking, he always seems to be looking over my shoulder to offer advice. 🤦‍♀️
#homealone

2025-01-25 20:29:08 GMT

- reply

Don’t let your mom see the video of T and the folks around you while the Bishop was speaking. I’m surprised they weren’t struck by lightning.

2025-01-21 18:01:35 GMT

- reply

I've spent a long time looking at both. I like the first (left) one better, but both are really cool.

2025-01-20 14:15:52 GMT

Good morning! I don't have the right words to describe today. I'm going to spend the day concentrating on the positive and ignoring the media. If you're of a similar mind, I recommend the hashtag #TheWorldIsStillBeautiful, particularly photos that @npub1tpt…kvpg is posting.
I'm particularly grateful for my heaviest sweatshirts and hoodies today. They'll get me through the next few days of cold weather as I put out food for the birds and corn for the deer.
Stay warm!🤗
#Today

2025-01-19 13:12:48 GMT

Good morning and happy #SofaSunday! It’s extra quiet this morning. Birds aren’t even showing up at the feeders yet, which is disconcerting. Without that usual activity the cats are taking their morning naps early.
We’re gearing up for the extreme cold coming in later. I’m grateful it won’t be as cold as the Midwest or farther north. Every winter I scratch my head that my sister has put up with Chicago winters for 40+ years. Hardy souls.
Enjoy a restful, cozy day if you can!
#Today

2025-01-17 18:42:06 GMT

- reply

I only mention it because my sisters and I DIDN'T see that coming. It was a short period that passed once Mom got into a routine. I think she felt like the new kid on the block.
Fast forward to now, and she has new friends and activities that supplement her "old life". Her longtime friends come visit and drive her to church, lunch, etc.
I wish you the same ease of transition.🤗

2025-01-17 18:30:30 GMT

- reply

That looks very nice. My sisters + I went through the same thing last spring. Mom was on board with moving to assisted living, and we were able to get her into the one she preferred.
Everything went smoothly, but it took her about 2 months to fully adjust to living where she was not completely in charge. (i.e. meals were at certain times, etc.) She had lived in her home since 1978. She knew she couldn't live alone or drive anymore, but the adjustment was on an emotional level.

2025-01-17 13:11:58 GMT

- reply

Easy lessons are what I hope for, but sometimes it’s the hard ones that are the most effective.

2025-01-15 14:21:51 GMT

Good morning! Yesterday my quiet day got blown up. I got a call that my date of surgery is Feb. 1. Suddenly there were things to get done.
Today I see my doctor for pre-op stuff and send out a group email to let friends and family know. It's getting real. I know in my head it'll be fine, but my body's natural reaction is anxiety. I've upped my breathing and meditation exercises in hopes it'll help. We'll see.
I hope you have at least a slightly predictable day!
#Today

2025-01-13 20:06:41 GMT

- reply

Excellent! Now the staff knows who you are and that you’re paying attention. Your mother is no longer invisible. All good developments.

2025-01-13 15:01:35 GMT

- reply

I hope today's meeting is productive and they come to a new, realistic plan for your mother's care.
Everyone in your mother's position needs at least one person who can advocate for them, loudly if necessary, and consistently. Patients can get steamrolled so easily.
Good for you for letting the DON know you are a retired lawyer. It's just another tool you've got to ensure your mother gets the respect and care she deserves.

2025-01-12 13:21:22 GMT

- reply

Hmm. I think I need to practice enjoying the quiet today. Thank you for the suggestion.

2025-01-11 15:09:37 GMT

- reply

How wonderful that Budy is allowed in to visit! That's got to be wonderful for your mother's morale.
Meanwhile, Mark is a blessing. I have an unmarried daughter, but he lives too far away. 😉

2025-01-11 14:58:42 GMT

Happy #SlackerdaySaturday. I met with the specialist/surgeon yesterday, and it is now certain there is surgery in my future. (Date won't be set until next week). It's taking me some time to process, now that it's a sure thing.
I like and have every confidence in the doctor, and I'm grateful my husband + I are retired so the trip to Baltimore for a few days won't be disruptive. The chance of cancer is low. I'm doing my best to focus on the positive.
#Today

2025-01-10 00:51:18 GMT

- reply

Sometimes we have to make hard choices, but it sounds like you've figured out what's best for you and your family.
Last February I was doing the same thing. I would travel up to NJ for a week at a time to visit my mom and handle things while she was in rehab, then head back home for a week-10 days. Rinse and repeat. Luckily one of my sisters could do the same. It's a hard juggling act, but a precious gift of your time and love. You've got this.

2025-01-01 14:37:32 GMT

Good morning. Today is my oldest daughter's birthday, and I will concentrate on that. I was enjoying a quiet "Silent Sunday" type of morning until my husband, a news junkie, told me about the U.S.'s latest breaking story.💔
Having my family make it through the day without being randomly harmed by others is becoming a something I'm grateful for daily.
Thank goodness this community shows me every day that good decent folks outnumber the bad. Let's stick together.
#Today

2024-12-30 19:29:39 GMT

- reply

Same here. It's a nice problem to have, though, isn't it?

2024-12-27 13:58:16 GMT

- reply

So far the unexpected this morning has brought me the reminder to not slack off on back stretching exercises, and provided an opportunity to sit quietly with a heating pad. 😉

2024-12-24 23:52:20 GMT

- reply

You’re definitely living your best life.

2024-12-24 12:17:21 GMT

- reply

I personally prefer “practice” to “persist”. The former encourages me to keep trying, without judgement of how successful I may be.

2024-12-24 01:17:39 GMT

- reply

This is wonderful news. You must be very relieved.

2024-12-22 20:19:49 GMT

- reply

That’s the best possible news. Hopefully you have a good rehab place that isn’t too far away. They can accomplish a lot, and she should be safe while she’s there.

2024-12-22 14:21:36 GMT

Happy #SofaSunday! The sun is out, but it's only warming us psychologically. It's currently 20F but won't get much warmer today.
I'm grateful I filled the bird feeders yesterday, if only to save myself the trip outside until later. The birds coming by to eat are all puffed up to stay warm. It's hard to understand how that works, but it seems to be the strategy.
My strategy includes a constant supply of warm cups of coffee, tea or cocoa. Whatever your strategy is, I wish you success.
#Today

2024-12-22 02:48:59 GMT

- reply

Oh no. I know what the road ahead looks like, made only more complicated by the upcoming holidays. All I can do is walk that road with you. I can be a sympathetic ear if you need one. 🫂

2024-12-22 00:16:10 GMT

- reply

It still looks like good eating.

2024-12-20 23:49:12 GMT

- reply

I am so sorry. My mother fell last January and fractured her arm. It resulted in 5 months of wearing a brace, rehab and the end of her living independently. It was exhausting and stressful for everyone involved.
I hope your mother's road to recovery is a smooth one. I know you'll cope because you have to. 🤗

2024-12-19 16:03:06 GMT

- reply

For the time being Musk has effectively bought himself a Presidency. We'll see how long it lasts.

2024-12-17 00:49:13 GMT

My pushback with the insurance company continues. (They denied to pay for the reading of my mammogram.) Their reasoning was that the imaging order asked for additional information. I was skeptical + told them I was appealing.
Thank goodness I found my copy of last year's statement. It was broken down the same way as this notice was, so they lied today.
Tomorrow I'll stop by the imaging center to doublecheck I'm correct and then I'll fire off my appeal.
Don't mess with angry older women. 😡

2024-12-10 14:13:57 GMT

- reply

There is contentment to be found in the smallest of accomplishments.

2024-12-08 00:01:47 GMT

- reply

Both are good, but I prefer Cat Stevens. Back in the early 70’s when I was in college I was able to see him in concert a few times. Magical!

2024-12-07 23:41:13 GMT

- reply

Sam Cooke or Cat Stevens, take your pick.

2024-12-06 17:16:13 GMT

That pond water today is in the 30Fs, but a heron’s gotta do what a heron’s gotta do to eat, so he’s on the hunt.
One more reason I’m glad I’m not a bird!
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/113/606/976/928/622/468/original/f59b2f97897cc075.jpeg

2024-12-04 12:41:26 GMT

Good morning! These 20F mornings are relentless. Thank goodness I have a steady supply of warm socks and sweatshirts.
Today I'm up and out for a doctor's appointment and a variety of errands. By the time I get home the temperatures should be more conducive to a walk, followed by some hot tea. At least that's the plan.
I hope your Wednesday goes according to plan, with some bonus moments of joy.
#Today

2024-11-23 13:14:34 GMT

- reply

Even in retirement the weekend mentality remains. 😊

2024-11-15 13:10:47 GMT

Good morning and TGIF. Lucy and I have had just about enough of this week. Here is a current photo of her, which captures my mood precisely.
After getting a few necessary things done I plan to follow her example. I’ll do something to refresh my spirit. I hope you can find some time to do that too.
#Today
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/113/487/055/859/698/308/original/46f25a3007e02904.jpeg

2024-11-14 13:30:48 GMT

Good morning. I'm enjoying at having a morning at my disposal. No outside appointments determining my schedule! I still have a bunch of things to get done, but I can navigate them as I wish.
My kneejerk reaction to the chaos of this moment in history is to get my own house in order. Getting my to-do list down to a minimum clears my head. I'm sure it's a false sense of security, but it's working for now.
I hope Thursday brings something positive for you.
#Today

2024-11-14 12:52:22 GMT

- reply

Very, very wise words. I resolve to never give up. For once my stubbornness is an asset.
(Although I do have to confess that I am dusting off my crocheting skills to head off the nervous eating that may accompany the nights ahead.)

2024-11-10 12:55:30 GMT

- reply

It doesn’t sound hokey to me. It works.

2024-11-03 13:11:47 GMT

- reply

One of the benefits of retirement, for me, is the freedom from a strict schedule. I can spend hours working on whatever task I choose. Others may think I’m often wasting time, but to me it’s enjoying time.

2024-10-17 12:51:47 GMT

- reply

it's sad that reflection and relaxation are under-valued in our society.

2024-10-14 00:12:37 GMT

- reply

It’s good to figure that out no matter what age you are. Everyone should learn that.

2024-10-05 15:32:38 GMT

#Caturday Saturday vibe.
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/113/255/512/098/077/193/original/e3127be643a27e48.jpeg

2024-09-27 00:19:57 GMT

@npub1le8…fa56
You'll never guess what arrived in today's mail - my ballot! I've got it marked and will drop it off to the drop box tomorrow. It definitely feels good!

2024-09-14 13:24:18 GMT

- reply

The smallest are often the toughest! 😉

2024-09-14 13:22:52 GMT

- reply

This sounds like a good one, too. Thanks for the suggestion!

2024-09-14 13:20:08 GMT

Happy #Caturday and #SlackerdaySaturday! Ringo is sitting in one of his favorite spots, keeping an eye on the front yard. From here he can relax while staying alert for any marauding wildlife. 😂
#Today
https://files.mastodon.online/media_attachments/files/113/136/060/914/840/142/original/18650bf1d112947e.jpeg