She had texted neighbors in search of baking soda, but couldn't wait given the time constraints. Earlier in the day, she probably could have borrowed the teaspoon she needed

Expedition was a success. Cookies have been made, consumed, and set out for Santa.

Do you get to upgrade 4 cat beds to a cat tower? Lol

Lovely seasonal choice!

Devastating footage from one of the boaters only 100 metres away:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FuN...

Had to be careful not to use the vinegar-water mix to make the tea, lol! I kept thinking oh the kettle's boiled, time for more tea!

Have started a new solstice tradition of cleaning the scale out of the kettle. We'll see if it survives as a tradition.

We had to pick out a toy and leave it under the tree in case Santa needed something for another kid. I was well into adulthood when my mother told me that it was so that it wouldn't look sparse under the tree on Christmas morning.

Roofracks, yay or too noisy?

Seeing this just after finishing my oatmeal with tasty, tasty cream. 😋

Similar - I slept on the third floor and the steam heat didn't reach those radiators. My dad would yell up the stairs to shut my door. And now my bedroom windows stay open at least a crack most of the winter.

That's one relief. So many things to think about.

Oh such a mess. Especially if brother is already collapsing. Do I remember correctly that she at least now lives somewhat near you and not way down in Cornwall or some such?

All the hugs to Steven and you

Oh damn. :( What a time of year this is.