Cold, but good Saturday

Distracted by shiny objects again - son picture from family friend again in my email box this a.m. and looking at UNC basketball score from last night.  Good news on both fronts.  But now back to recreating yesterday.  Wrote this to family friend this a.m.  

"Thank you for another glimpse of the boy!!  Big event on Friday night so I was fretting a bit.  

I am SOOOOO grateful that I live somewhere where I can be heat frugal! Put the baseboard on in the bathroom at noon yesterday and still on.  Planning on turning it off at noon today. And still comfortable on my comfort meter.  Had Walk & Talk book club at the library yesterday so I went up early and walked the halls for an hour.  Luckily that guy was not there walking but there was a guy from Allen Place and had a very interesting conversation with him as we walked.  I think my time outside today will be just making sure swimming lady's NYTimes is by her door so she does not have to maneuver up by where she parks her car.   

Sister #1 is heading home from PA today.  Gentleman caller seems to be doing OK to be alone.  Sister #4, 6 got a lot more snow then we did.  I shoveled Main St yesterday.  Hairdo place must have moved up some appts with the weather forecast.  Chatted it up with one of the customers who is the boyfriend of my 6th grade teacher's daughter and who lived in the Valley House when I was there.  

Fingers crossed that this is the last snap of this cold!!!  Sister #1 and I were reminiscing yesterday about the Storm of '78 when I was at her house in Costa Rica on my way home from Ecuador and the parents came to Costa Rica.  Sister #6 says she was there but sister #1 has no recollection of that either.  :)  We said maybe sister #6 told herself stories of inclusion when we all left her alone at home with the parents.  :)

Hope it is a calm day at church today and at your house is calm, warm and collected."

Got some other "even you are not walking outside today" as I went through the day.  Pollinator trail lady's husband was at the library.  Book club ladies.  It was cold, but the big issue was slippery, icy of pavement even the roads.  I drove to the library.  Glad the car agreed to start up and stay on the road.  Only a mile each way.  

Sent my brother's card out.  I am thinking that you are on the sunny side of recuperation and winter weather, but here is to bright sunshine on us all for 2026.  Sun picture on the front with "sending sunny thoughts your way".  No address for niece #3 yet, but I have that card ready if I do.  

Nothing on paper calendar today.  Not a super bowl fan, did look at some of the commercials online yesterday.  Great Lansing DC yesterday.  What a wonderful group of people.  

If you don’t feel 100 per cent sure about a joint project of some sort then take a time out and let your partners know that a rethink may be needed. Your ability to see obstacles as well as opportunities could save you all a lot of hurt.

Shadow sides will be revealed as Venus and Uranus square off. Don’t allow others to mistreat you, taking a firm stance against jealous, possessive, or uncalled-for behaviors. The Scorpio Moon and nodes of fate align to heighten your mind-body connection. You’ll see clearly how certain people influence your physical and emotional state. Break cycles that have caused you to ignore red flags in an effort to keep the peace. If you struggle to find release, spend time moving outdoors while Mars activates this afternoon. Be proud of your ability to set boundaries and evolve once Jupiter stirs this evening.

New opportunities, perhaps involving modern technology in some way, might present themselves to you in such a way as to transform your working life, Libra. You could find yourself making a lot of phone calls in this regard, which could keep you busy for much of the day. Your level of excitement is likely to be very high, which makes it important that you remember to take breaks, catch your breath, and definitely get a little exercise.

Don't see any projects or technology to distract me today...I will spend sometime outdoors no matter the temp.  It is supposed to be full sun day so that will draw me out.  11 items on my paper calendar for the week ahead.  Let's hope the weather and activities lift me up.  Have a good Sunday.  

People popping into my day

Picture from family friend from instagram.  Glad se is connected to update my gallery of son pictures.  :)  Yesterday I got distracted by shiny objects, but most of all by a Tim Ferris/Tim McGraw interview.  Long but I stayed with it beginning to end and got a couple of songs for the Lansing DC this a.m.!  Did not hear back from any of the emails I sent out as follow up to the presentation at our library on Feb 24.  So yesterday - walk, Ferris, can't fill in many other blanks.  :)  Days do fill in.  On my walk while in the reservoir stretch, I did run into and chat for a bit with a woman who is always front and center at town meetings and always more informed than our elected officials.  What a treat.  Did reach out to a friend of my son's in Florida.  Saw her uncle died.  Her family lost her grandmother and uncle within months.  Also reached out to a high school friend to catch up on book reviews and see how she was faring in the cold.  Not her favorite season.  Ran into a former school #1 parent out walking his dog.  No Thursday shows, so no TV to watch.  Also watched Morgan Housel and Chris Williamson.

An outreach I did not do yesterday but have on my "to-do" today - send card to my brother who had one of the surgeries he needs for his hands.  Everything is completely manageable in his life, but just want him to know I am thinking of him.  He and I are at the ends of the spectrum of life manageability.  One thing I will manage today - snowed overnight so I will need to go out and do some clean up on aisle 6 shoveling before the Lansing DC.  Have All-In cued up to listen to.  Walk and Talk book club will probably take place inside at the library with the temps predicted for this afternoon.  I do plan on turning on 2 sections of baseboard heat at noon today and leave it on until noon tomorrow.  

Your admiration for a friend or loved one will reach a new high this weekend, and that’s great, but don’t put them on such a high pedestal that they might hurt themselves if they fall off. They are no less human than you are.

Enjoy soft moments that support your heart center, dear Libra. As Luna takes her final steps in your sign, a sweet aspect with Venus brings you closer to peace. A boost in creativity triggers exciting new visions and ventures. Follow through on these ideas as the Moon enters Scorpio, amplifying your connection with the material realms. Working with your hands will be particularly satisfying. Challenge your skill level and try to learn fresh techniques while Mercury activates midafternoon. Self-doubt could creep in when Pluto becomes agitated this evening. Pull back and rest if you start to lose patience with yourself.

Settling a dispute may be on your agenda today, Libra. You may find yourself getting caught smack in the middle of the stew if you aren’t careful. If this happens, the wisest thing might be to pull out. When you're in this position (especially with two people you care about), the outcome winds up hurting someone, and it may just be you. If you tell them you care about them both too much to get involved, chances are you'll be far better off.

So today - shovel, Lansing DC, short walk before the temp plummets, book club - or maybe walking up and back to library.  We will see.  Have a good Saturday.  
 

Gather my thoughts Friday on tap - as of 4:09 a.m. :)

 

Almost forgot my Wed shows - but didn't.  :)  AND a Feb 17 notice from son.  Key Cosmic Influences for February 17, 2026:  Annular Solar Eclipse in Aquarius: This "Ring of Fire" eclipse represents a significant new beginning, urging a move toward humanitarian,, collective goals and unconventional thinking. And the day kept building.  

Did my Shoppes walk route for the first time since the "big snow".  A couple of tricky spots but I made it and ran into a high school classmate who is the gentlest of souls and who made my day.  He was working, but he had stopped for lunch at Sweetgreen.  Seeing him reminded me of another classmate who brings me calm when in her presence, so I just wrote her an email.  Just took out the names.

Happy New Year!  I am not happy with the weather but I think about what you shared about what (her husband) said about limiting one's complaining about the cold...it is winter in New England.  😎  But the real reason I thought of you yesterday was I ran into (classmate) on my walk yesterday and it reminded me of you in that he has such a calming presence on my soul that brought me joy.  Same feeling that I get in your presence.  Thanks to both of you for reminding me of calm.

I have spent a lot of time of late with (her husband) classmate, (my landlord), doing snow management.  But the good news is (my landlady) is always generous with her snow day cooking or baking so it is worth the shoveling.  

Good book read for what supposed to be this Saturday's Walk & Talk book club which was cancelled due to the forecasted "chill", but the book was great - The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier.  And I completely enjoyed last month's - To the Bright Edge of the World - Eowyn Ivey.

Hope all are well in your family.  I sat by "Mark's (her brother who died in 2022 but was a town legend) table" at LaSalle Market on Tuesday and was made fun of by the men who hold it down these days 🙂 when I met (family friend)and (friend) for coffee - too cold for them to join me for our regular Wednesday walk but had a need to catch up on the talk of the town.  

Take care and thanks to you and (classmate) for reminding me of calm.  ☀️  42 days until Spring!

Balance of the day - Compassion & Choices Legislative update.  That got me reaching out to my state rep and senator.  I have some follow up work to do on that thread today.  I shared with my rep that I appreciated her update but was at the same time infuriated by the stance of two of our legislators who hold MAID advancing in their hands...term limits would be my dream for one, not letting one person's personal beliefs taking choice away from their constituents for another..  Went to the library author talk, but "hung up" half way through.  Neither the author or the book got me.  "Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley.  But it is historical fiction, so maybe I will give her a try at some point.  Enjoying the book landlady passed along to me as we speak.  Two Rivers by T Greenwood.  

Spoke to sister #4 about Cap One class action suit.  I should be getting some money from that - little money, but some.  Was asking her if she filled in the paperwork yet.  She was going to look and see if that was an email she overlooked.  Back and forth with family friend about BOS, BOE meetings.  This budget year for town is going to be a doozy!  

Nothing on paper calendar for today.  Thursday shows.  Walk.  Will see what shiny objects I get distracted by today.  

Cosmic activity in your fellow air sign of Aquarius makes you both ambitious and hard-working, but unless you’ve got a long-term plan you are unlikely to accomplish anything of significance. Take time out today to identify the next few steps ahead.

The Moon keeps busy in your sign this morning, sweet Libra, aligning with Jupiter and the Aquarius Sun. A burst of motivation inspires you to take on more projects or responsibilities, helping you break out of stagnant cycles. However, it’s important to consider what you can realistically take on, or you will soon hit an energetic wall that is difficult to overcome. Elevate your wellness practices by focusing on mind-body integration throughout the coming weeks once Mercury enters Pisces this afternoon. Loved ones may require extra attention when Chiron stirs later tonight, but don’t compromise your own sense of balance while tending to others.

Libra, you may find yourself feeling more aggressive than normal today. This can serve you well when it comes to getting what you want, provided no one suffers in the process. It isn’t generally in your nature to step on anyone on the way up the ladder, and you aren’t likely to feel good if this occurs. Look at all possible ways to attain your goals. You're sure to find something that suits you that isn’t harmful to others.

I will keep the good thought that I am contemplative, focused and appropriately energetic about the things that are on my mind and heart right now.  I will lift that up today.  Have a good Friday.  

Calm before the cold :)

Picture of former school #1 in the recent snow.  I am gearing up for 18 hours of the coldest temps yet this cold winter.  Will turn the heat on in the bathroom on Saturday and Sunday.  THEN we will start our march to Spring?  We will see.  

Yesterday cleaned the apt. Took walk.  Left a bit later than usual for Wednesday so I only was out for an hour and a half...but had EOLD and Shared Passing ZOOMs.  Both were moving in a very kind and gentle way.  Helped reset my personal "gyroscope".  Lots happened in the first days of February to have me mentally off kilter a bit.  Feel back now.  I do have to smile as I think about what would happen if I ever did put a "nanny cam" in my apt as I move through winter.  Early to bed, early to rise. In a scarf and parka inside and outside the apt at all times.  Blanket "sarong" to keep legs warm.  I am comfortable, but it takes some layers.  5 as I sit right now on my machine.  :)  

Today will think about trying to get to the Shoppes - valentine's day card for niece #3 and get well for brother.  Will see if snow banks allow that walk.  On paper calendar - 3 p.m. C&C legislative update and 7 p.m. the library consortium lecture - Vanessa Riley Author Talk. 

Make the most of the sun and Mars in the most dynamic area of your chart to push ahead with your creative plans. Some people will try to oppose you, of course, but they cannot succeed if you just ignore them and keep moving.

The Moon's debut into your sign offers an energetic reset, dearest Libra, helping you shed what you do not need. If the past two days felt heavy, call in levity by addressing personal needs and homing in on specific goals. Awkward interactions could throw you for a loop while Mercury squares Uranus. Stubborn and headstrong vibes fill the air, triggering competition, hurt feelings, and flighty behaviors. Agreements you set your heart on may fall through, so avoid pushing for romantic commitment or professional negotiations. Find an outlet to release pent-up energy when Luna aspects Pluto and Mars this evening.

Why not take some much deserved rest and relaxation today, Libra? After all, even you need to jump out of the rat race once in a while. If there are some things you really need to care of, you can still make plans for leisure or recreation afterward. Spoil yourself with an afternoon nap or ordering out for dinner. Take a leisurely walk or a long bath. Take care of yourself by resting as well as accomplishing.

Feels like an interesting cosmic day ahead...per the stars.  Have a good Thursday.  My goal will be the same.

People day Tuesday

Had this pic of a sound bath set up in CDMX that my son sent.  He and I went back and forth on email yesterday as to where we both were with the state of the world - in very big picture, few details way but was good for me.  I do not have international plan on my phone so it is email only communiques while he is in CDMX and the timing for that appears to be extending past the original March return to US.  I am always amazed by his physical and mental range of motion.  

"Been doing good though.  Just like some people kinda losing their minds a bit with epstein stuff and just world getting crazier :) Booked up everything through the beginning of World Cup June 11.  1 big show a month and vaughn is gonna be my new roommate in April so im pretty happy about having another best friend here."  I am sure looking at the US from the outside...we must look interesting.  :)  

I did "stretch" a bit for me yesterday.  Reached out to two CA friends with thoughts about Aflame and heard back from both.  Heard from son.  Had family friend reach out to say no walk Wednesday, but how about meeting for coffee down the street from me on Tuesday afternoon which we did and another classmate of hers and my brother joined us.  Fun visit.  On walk, dropped off Aflame.  Did a regular route.  Had been staying away from a main and busy stretch and found things clear.  30 degrees felt almost balmy yesterday.  Will try a full route the other way today and see if all is walkable.  

Ran dishwasher. Went to Shoprite later than regular but no CA DC on 1st Tuesday of the month so no rush.  8:34 a.m. check out.  $65.42 spent/$41.62 saved ratio.  30 eggs for $4.79 was a find not on my radar or digital coupon, just there.  :)  Sister #1's gentleman caller made it through the valve replacement yesterday.  Stayed in hospital last night and maybe tonight.  

Today clean apt, EOLD, Walk, Shared Crossing discussion group. Since my windshield wiper fluid is frozen, I did go out and clean off the windshield after getting back Shoprite.  

Try not to push yourself too hard today, physically, mentally or emotionally. There may be a dozen and one things you want to get done but you are not superhuman and if you try to be there could be a big crash up ahead. Know your own limits.

The steady growth you've been nurturing will lead to major breakthroughs this morning, dear Libra. As the Virgo moon and Jupiter align, pause to consider how you can propel these successes even further. Feed your own interests to elevate romantic relationships once Luna, Venus, and Chiron form a yod this afternoon. When you are confident and creatively satisfied, your connections will blossom. Personal empowerment comes on suddenly while Uranus activates this evening, helping you break free from unhealthy cycles. Get an early start on your bedtime routines when Saturn becomes agitated tonight, as time could slip through your fingers.

Serious thinking and communication will be enhanced today, Libra. These are strong qualities for you anyway, and with this added boost, you'll need to have a place to express yourself. If you’ve started a journal, this can prove to be an excellent outlet. Talking with other people is another. If there are issues or worries that have been bothering you, consider getting together with those involved and airing what's on your mind. It's a perfect day to get things resolved.

I don't exactly push very hard.  )  Have a good Wednesday.  

Another quote the Aflame

What hit me this a.m. as I am rounding the final corner on Aflame, something reminded me of the connection I have experienced over the last almost 6 years of people I have met on line discussing death...in order to live a more fulfilling life.  "I had hoped, spending time in the Hermitage, to learn from the monks; but now I'm gaining so much also from the fellow travelers met along the road. Like nobody else in my life they feel like instant comrades, worthy of deepest trust, if only because what we share sits at the very heart of us."    

Stayed in bed a little longer than usual reading this a.m. but then put the book down because I want to be fully present as I read the final pages.  Not thinking about what I need to be doing next.  Today will be a good day to do that in that yes I have Shoprite and run dishwasher and walk...but nothing on my paper calendar.  So sitting in my front window with sun shining in will be my perch this afternoon to finish.

Yesterday - great walk, stopped at library on the last leg to make sure I had bedside table stocked as I knew I was drawing to the end of Aflame.  3 p.m. FEN DC.  Best facilitator yet.  Made all the difference as to where the sharing took us.  Did load of wash.  Almost balmy out as the temp reached 30 and even a touch above!  Today might be even a degree or two higher.  Will try to do a full route today.  Fingers crossed as to treated surfaces and snow bank issues.  

Sister #1's gentleman caller is having his heart valve procedure today...burning incense is in order.  :)

There is no point getting angry with people who cannot be bothered to make an effort, and there is no point getting angry with yourself if you are confused by a situation you have never encountered before. Not everything in life has to make sense.

The Virgo Moon forms unbalanced aspects with Pluto and Mars, dearest Libra, putting your ego in a funk. You’ll crave attention, but won’t feel motivated to work on projects that might boost your popularity. Your shadow side comes out to play while the nodes of fate stir. It’s important to analyze your patterns, especially if you tend to judge peers. The next time negative thoughts about someone else cloud your mind, ask yourself if it is a valuable use of your energy. Create a better narrative by breaking personal goals into small, sustainable steps.

Today you may notice that you're feeling very creative and ambitious, Libra. You might want to use these strengths to work directly on an artistic project. Or you may choose to channel that energy into activities like organizing your home or workspace. If you plan it out, there should be plenty of time to get to both if you have a mind to. Make the most of the day!

Amen to "not everything in life has to make sense." :)  Very short Shoprite list today.  No CA DC on first Tuesday of each month so no rush or clock on doing anything today.  Have a good Tuesday.  

Good start to month

Greeted with 4:44 a.m. this morning.  Yesterday was an interesting IMBOLC day.  Wrote to son and heard back.  Sent him the "Mother of a Son" poem I wrote for niece #1.  Swordfish is my "treat food".  Last time I had it was when NC friends were on their NE road trip.  :)  

One of my new holidays. AND the full snow moon!  No swordfish on my to-do list but still a day to help me refocus.  :)  Did ask the lady I walk with if she wants to go to a dumpling place for her birthday later this month.  Spring cannot come soon enough.  Imbolc 2026 takes place on Sunday, February 1st, 2026, marking the traditional Celtic fire festival that falls halfway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. It signifies the start of spring, the return of light, and the awakening of nature.  Renewal, purification, and the first stirrings of spring. 

Also sent Happy Imbolc wishes to niece #4.  She asked if I would be available for a brunch on Feb 27.  She would come to me.  It is on my calendar.  Will see if it comes to fruition.  It was her husband's birthday yesterday too.  

So yesterday - sibling call.  Sister #1 off to PA today for a valve procedure her gentleman caller is having on Tuesday.  She set up a hotel by the hospital so she does not have to drive back and forth.  He will be in hospital for one or two nights.  After I talked to her I got back in bed to read a bit before an 11 a.m. ZOOM and woke up at 10:58 a.m.  True Imbolc moment to get me to England on time!  Death is not the End: Online Launch - The subject of death and dying has, for a long time, been avoided as a topic for general discussion. Today, however, as awareness of the continuity of consciousness after death is increasing, there is scope for a wider sharing of information and experience.  NDE, SDE, Terminal Lucidity, reincarnation and more.  Over 350 people were in the ZOOM room.  Then I was energized to go out in the cold for a walk.  Almost an hour and a half.  Picked up swimming lady's NYT paper and put it inside her back door on my way.  Then I got ready for 4:30 p.m. Alameda DC.  Heart retching sharing by one of the participants.  I shared my gratitude to feel safe, heard and seen...and healthy.  

Good night's sleep.  Ready for a long walk today. Wash load of wash.  The sun will be out.  3 p.m. FEN DC.  

If you fail at something today it will be of no real consequence – what matters is that you were brave enough to have a go when so many others decided to give it a miss. Whatever your next challenge may be give that your best shot as well.

The energy could feel slightly tense this morning, dear Libra, as the Leo Moon aspects Venus, Mercury, and Chiron. Treat others how you'd like to be treated, even if doing so requires extra patience on your end. The stars grant permission to set firmer boundaries when Uranus grows restless midafternoon, heating up confrontational personalities. Put a stop to power struggles by stepping out of drama before it escalates. Mercury and Chiron encourage you to find support in the comfort of a loved one if you need to emotionally recalibrate. A healthy dose of alone time will do you good once Luna enters Virgo tonight.

Don't discount your ability to be extremely resourceful if you need to be, Libra. If you don’t have everything you need or all of the required information, take time to think. Who can you ask? What places can you access? Who might know where you can find what you need? Rather than panic because the pieces aren't all there, instead make a list of contacts and go for it. Trust in yourself.

Still enjoying Aflame.  What great messages about silence, solitude, self, peace of mind.  Good reminders.  Have a good Monday.