Ahh, the smell of fall--that burning smell that comes when the furnace is first turned on for the season. We got a new furnace installed yesterday and new furnaces have a special smell all of their own. Hopefully, all of the newness will burn off quickly and we won't notice it in time. The old furnace served this house for 31 years, so I think it did its duty, but I'm not sorry to see it go. We're hoping for more even heating and comfort with the new furnace and its upgraded the filter, UV light, and humidifier. We'll see, but I have high hopes.
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| When they are not at our feeders, both the squirrels and the birds are enjoying the berries off this tree. |
The furnace is not the only new thing we have gotten recently. In the never-ending battle with the squirrels at our bird feeders, we have gotten two new squirrel "proof" feeders. So far the squirrels haven't been able to outsmart the feeders, but it's fun watching them try. While I wouldn't mind feeding the squirrels a little, when they are at the feeder, the birds stay away. However, the birds are starting to try out the new feeders and we hope more will come when there is not as much competition from the squirrels.
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| These were the best carrots we've gotten this year. They definitely like the cooler weather. |
While we have had several frosts and freezes, it wasn't until last week when even the protected plants froze. Thus begins the fall bed cleanup. We started first with the vegetables and harvested everything except the turnips and radishes. They should be okay in the ground until we need them.
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| The turnips have grown huge. Who knows how big they might have gotten if I had thinned them more? |
In other happenings, we have planned our Thanksgiving dinner and will start cooking this weekend. Since we won't be together, my sister and I are sharing food. For example, I am making make-ahead mashed potatoes for both of us and she is making cranberry relish to share. Also, Ward and I are busy working on Christmas gifts. We're finding that sometimes ideas that seem so simple are a lot harder to make that one would think.
For various reasons, staffing levels have been very low at work. I am thankful that I work with such good people that are always willing to pitch in wherever needed. And speaking of work, I'd better go fix my lunch for today so I won't be late.
Until next time...
