Eva’s Friends

[Evadig]

Has it really only been four days since the last post?! It seems like the last few days have dragged on forever. I was still severely depressed until last night; a certain time of the month came 'round again...it seemed to reset things. Then I was able to do a tolerably good job of pin-curling my hair, so I woke up this morning happy.

Brushing out the pin-curls is the hardest part. You have to do it just so-so, or you won't get the style you're looking for. And each style has a different pattern. I think I might have the wrong brush, too. Anyway, this time around went better than the others, and I successfully created the resemblance of a pageboy (this is one of the aforementioned styles).

I am trying to do '40s-'50s hairstyling because I can't keep doing a bun. My hair is breaking and I'm actually losing some. At the same time I don't want it just hanging, and since I most often dress in that period I thought it would be nice to fix my hair that way, too.

Last night I only slept four hours, so I'm pretty tired - I was falling asleep in church today. Speaking of church...I was finally able to put my CPR/First Aid knowledge to use! An elderly lady cut her leg on the pew and was heavily bleeding; I helped manage the situation and bandaged her up with gauze pads until she could get to the ER. Even though I forgot to apply pressure first to stop the bleeding, I'm quite proud of myself!

I'm sorry you had to withdraw from school. I know you were looking forward to it and are rightfully feeling down now.

My current word of the day (and week, and month) is resiliency. It feels like every step forward these days comes with a step or two backward. I just have to keep forging ahead, no matter what.

I thought Bronwyn was recovered. We'd done the meds and she was up roosting with the others. Then, she reverted to sleeping in the nest box, so clearly, her feet were bothering her. We went back to the far-away-and-expensive vet clinic yesterday. This time, we got Dr. Walker (my favorite) who trimmed away some of the left foot scab, which is healing well. There's no infection but because she opened up Bronwyn's feet, we're back to more meds.

And, they found mites near Bronwyn's vent, so I will be treating chickens and scrubbing coops.

Resiliency - that's a good word to remember. I hope Bronwyn is better and there isn't a mite infestation?

Did you get your mite issues under control?

I actually never treated them at all. I found that permethrin is extremely toxic to cats, and the cats live in the chicken coop. But while trying to decide what to do, the mites seem to have disappeared. I don't see any anywhere.

Today, I have to try to capture the two wildest of the basement cats so they can get updated shots at the in-town vet. This will get ugly and fast. I'm not confident that I can get Jinx, the bigger and more skittish one, into a carrier.

Were you able to catch the wild cats? When I captured an adult feral cat, he was so angry - throwing himself around inside the carrier - I was afraid he would bust the door open. Thankfully he didn't!

I loved the tale of Marta and the boys tangling with the tape, and their imagined conversation over the garden. While you are looking for employment, keep writing. It's a great outlet for your creativity.

Here's another story: A couple days ago Lydwinne (my bully hen) was invading the Stinkers' space, and Sylvester snuck up behind her and pulled her tail. She couldn't believe what had just happened! To save face, she slowly sauntered away, but she hasn't gone near them since!

Thanks for the advice about writing. I started an article for the BYC contest, and of course I will keep posting here.

I took a lot of photos:

Cunningham Falls State Park

Emmitsburg, MD

Bumblebee and roses

Our back woods

Strange caterpillar

Eva

The Stinkers

Rose and Lyd

Constance

Some kind of bug I saved from the lawnmower

Eva

Annie

Stinkers again

Two bucks

Big Dipper

Starry night

 

[Callender Girl]

Ah, the mention of pin curls brings back memories of a childhood spent with dozens of bobby pins poking my scalp as I tried to sleep. Despite the natural wave and curl in my hair, my mother --who grew up when pageboys were highly popular -- believed I would benefit from having tightly wrapped pin curls all over my head at night.

Great job helping the lady in church; you are rightfully proud of using your training to stabilize her until she could get to the ER!!

I specifically treated Bronwyn, her coop and her coop mates for mites. I need to do all of the birds and all of the coops. But dusting the birds would be much easier with a second set of hands. I know the young woman who judges poultry at the 4-H fair, and I'm hoping Anna will come help or knows a 4-H'er who will lend a hand. Soon.

You're totally right about the permethrin. All my cats (even the ones I reluctantly adopted when they were dumped here) are indoors. I remove my coveralls as soon as I get inside and wash the chemical out of them ASAP.

I was not able to get Jinx cornered and into a carrier -- which I explained to the vet, the vet tech, and the receptionist. Unfortunately, the automated system, which texts and sends emails, didn't get the message. It continues to let me know that Jinx is "overdue for services". I have tried to get the vet clinic to let me out of the system, but I have been unsuccessful.

Lyd may be a bully, but she's a very nice-looking girl. As always, great photos. I think your "bug" is a katydid. Although I detest grasshoppers -- because I don't want them to hop onto me and because they eat my garden veggies -- I don't mind hopping katydids.

One of the dogs believes it is her duty to clean the blind cat's face. Monday, Dinah was repeatedly licking Goo's face, and it started to bleed. That's how I found a lump on his jaw, and I immediately suspected squamous cell carcinoma; I've lost four cats to that tumor.

The vet yesterday said he could feel a soft spot in the mass, so while it could still be a tumor, it MIGHT be a bone infection that we are treating with antibiotics. I hope he's right. Goo was born in my backyard more than 15 years ago, the only one of three kittens to live more than 2 days and the only one born without eyes. I know he's probably not going to make it until the end of the year, but I appreciate every day he has left.

I'm glad to hear you are writing for the BYC contest! Some day, maybe, I will write for one, too.

 

[Evadig]

The projects are never ending with this place, I tell you. It was really supposed to be my parents' retirement home/a home for either my sister or I should we start a family of our own...the water leak that caused so much trouble three years ago (but that we at least collected insurance on) has caused mold to the outside wall and deck as well. That we only discovered when we went to change the back door. So we didn't get insurance, because we can't prove the mold came from the same source as the leak.

We (or rather, my dad) are having to tear out the siding, OSB, insulation, and trim off all the rotten studs. Then we have to replace the deck, since that is also all molded. The rest of us rummage through the tool chests trying to find some small part, or hand him things, or run to the store twice in one day, or just sit on the steps and wait to be needed again.

However...when that is all done, we intend to go out to California for the winter. Now that the EMS class didn't work out, I will likely re-apply for the the dispatch job or try to get something in the school system over there. Hopefully the Coast Guard approves the waivers soon, too, or I will switch over to the Air Force... I should have just stayed with the AF, but the recruiter was very pushy, and I was afraid he'd throw me onto the plane for basic training whether I was ready or not!

That's all for tonight, I think. I am tired but can't go to bed because things are still busy out there. This is all stressful. I wish it would end. I wish the house wouldn't keep having issues. It's like every time we think we're almost done, something else pops up. We don't dare sell - we got that lovely 2% interest rate from back during COVID! Oh, well, all things must come to an end, eventually, as much as all things come to those who wait. If those two things are true, everything will work out .

Ah, the mention of pin curls brings back memories of a childhood spent with dozens of bobby pins poking my scalp as I tried to sleep. Despite the natural wave and curl in my hair, my mother --who grew up when pageboys were highly popular -- believed I would benefit from having tightly wrapped pin curls all over my head at night.

But did you benefit?

They don't poke me as much, for some reason! I actually sleep better with them than without, probably because I can't toss and turn as much.

I was not able to get Jinx cornered and into a carrier -- which I explained to the vet, the vet tech, and the receptionist. Unfortunately, the automated system, which texts and sends emails, didn't get the message. It continues to let me know that Jinx is "overdue for services". I have tried to get the vet clinic to let me out of the system, but I have been unsuccessful.

Could you live trap Jinx? Or is he too smart for that?

Lyd may be a bully, but she's a very nice-looking girl. As always, great photos. I think your "bug" is a katydid. Although I detest grasshoppers -- because I don't want them to hop onto me and because they eat my garden veggies -- I don't mind hopping katydids.

One of the dogs believes it is her duty to clean the blind cat's face. Monday, Dinah was repeatedly licking Goo's face, and it started to bleed. That's how I found a lump on his jaw, and I immediately suspected squamous cell carcinoma; I've lost four cats to that tumor.

The vet yesterday said he could feel a soft spot in the mass, so while it could still be a tumor, it MIGHT be a bone infection that we are treating with antibiotics. I hope he's right. Goo was born in my backyard more than 15 years ago, the only one of three kittens to live more than 2 days and the only one born without eyes. I know he's probably not going to make it until the end of the year, but I appreciate every day he has left.

That's nice of Dinah to try to help! What kind of dog is she?
I hope Goo is okay, and it's only a bone infection.

I'm glad to hear you are writing for the BYC contest! Some day, maybe, I will write for one, too.

That would be wonderful!

Look at this :

Cows in a field

Road in the evening

C-17 from the Air Guard; I love watching it fly over!

Fire tonight burning all that moldy OSB

 

[Callender Girl]

All of the house issues sound overwhelming! It's upsetting when you think you have everything under control and something else shows up that needs repair.

Maybe I'm projecting because I'm feeling overwhelmed these days, mostly with medical stuff with critters but also because of an upcoming insurance company inspection. I KNOW there's going to be things they want fixed ASAP.

The biggest impediment to getting things repaired is finding someone to do the work. No one is terribly interested in "small jobs." A couple of years ago, I contacted someone who advertised himself as a "handyman." My 100-plus-year-old house had settled enough that I needed a couple of windows adjusted and had a few odd jobs throughout the house.

Mr. Handyman came out in a brand-new, extended cab pick-up truck and brought a second guy. Their plan wasn't just to fix the side windows but to remove the entire bay window and its supporting structure. I had extra siding and paint from a previous project so even with me supplying materials, they estimated the job at $9,300 and put me on a four-month waiting list. I like having a bay window for my houseplants, I like the character it gives the dining room and there was no way I was going to help him pay for his fancy, shiny truck. Plus, I wanted the drafty windows fixed BEFORE winter.

I finally found someone who works by himself and charged me about $1,500 to replace the windows, shore up the structure and add storm windows to make the dining room warmer in winter. I have that guy on stand-by to help me when the inspector starts listing things I need to fix. But, the trick will be getting my outdoor projects scheduled before winter.

I am not a fan of cold weather, so winter in California has some appeal If you reapply for and accept the dispatch job, will it mean staying out there for the foreseeable future? You would still post on BYC, right?

I'm pretty sure I wouldn't enjoy the Air Force nor the Coast Guard; I really dislike flying and I can't swim!

Jinx is far too smart for a live trap. I had moved both Calypso and Ozzie into the house weeks before I was able to lure Jinx into a large "catio" on the deck and even then had to struggle to get him into the house.

Dinah, who continues to clean Goo's face even when he protests, is descended from a lot of breeds. Her DNA test lists 10; the most she is of anything is Chihuahua, at 25 percent. Imagine a 25-pound, high-spirited Chihuahua-terrier mix and that's her!

Even though Dr. C said he could feel a soft spot in Goo's lump, I am not at all confident that the meds are helping to heal my poor little guy. He was 15 this spring and had I not taken in that little eyeless kitten, he wouldn't have lasted more than a few months, I'm sure. Losing him is going to be totally heartbreaking.

Friends came out yesterday to help me dust the chickens after I spent most of the day cleaning coops to get rid of mites. It was like an assembly line: Jan held waiting birds while Anna held the current "patient" upside down and I applied the dust. Anna, who is a poultry judge for 4-H shows, also gave pedicures to a few of the hens! But she has cats, so I outfitted her in coveralls and long gloves so she wouldn't take any of the powder home with her. We both wore masks because the dust is so nasty to breathe.

Are you making progress on your BYC contest piece?

 

[Evadig]

The work on the house has been progressing nicely. My dad thinks he can have the siding on by tomorrow. But the deck will have to wait till next time, and I don't know if we will get the new door in.

The neighbors have been giving us trouble and a sheriff's deputy actually came out to take a report. I really want to move. Of course, it's likely nothing will happen, but when your neighbors are...unsavory characters at best...you prefer to put as much space between you and them as possible. Certainly I can't stay here alone like I've done before.

I dropped a piece of fried apple on my computer keyboard and now it's very oily. Any idea on how to clean it?

I don't remember if I told you I was making a dress. I am almost done - just have to sew three more buttons (which I bought off ebay and are vintage from around the 50's!) and hem the skirt. All of the finishing work is done by hand.

I also landed a job interview with my local police department; they are hiring for a part-time records clerk. I am kind of nervous because the interview is with one of the police captains and likely the Chief as well. I like police...but I always seem to make a fool of myself if I need to talk to one.

Speaking of job interviews, how should one respond if they're asked
"why do you want this job?"
"why do you think you should be hired?"
"what makes you a better candidate than the others?"

Last time, I made the interviewers laugh by my far too honest answers.

Maybe I'm projecting because I'm feeling overwhelmed these days, mostly with medical stuff with critters but also because of an upcoming insurance company inspection. I KNOW there's going to be things they want fixed ASAP.

I've never heard of an insurance company inspection! Is it because your house is over one hundred years old?

The biggest impediment to getting things repaired is finding someone to do the work. No one is terribly interested in "small jobs." A couple of years ago, I contacted someone who advertised himself as a "handyman." My 100-plus-year-old house had settled enough that I needed a couple of windows adjusted and had a few odd jobs throughout the house.

Mr. Handyman came out in a brand-new, extended cab pick-up truck and brought a second guy. Their plan wasn't just to fix the side windows but to remove the entire bay window and its supporting structure. I had extra siding and paint from a previous project so even with me supplying materials, they estimated the job at $9,300 and put me on a four-month waiting list. I like having a bay window for my houseplants, I like the character it gives the dining room and there was no way I was going to help him pay for his fancy, shiny truck. Plus, I wanted the drafty windows fixed BEFORE winter.

I finally found someone who works by himself and charged me about $1,500 to replace the windows, shore up the structure and add storm windows to make the dining room warmer in winter. I have that guy on stand-by to help me when the inspector starts listing things I need to fix. But, the trick will be getting my outdoor projects scheduled before winter.

Gracious! I'm surprised Mr. Handyman gets any business! I hope the good handyman is able to get out to your place before winter. What time does it set in up there?

I am not a fan of cold weather, so winter in California has some appeal If you reapply for and accept the dispatch job, will it mean staying out there for the foreseeable future? You would still post on BYC, right?

I would be out there for at least a year, yes. And I will definitely continue to post on BYC as long as I have internet service! But - and this is a hint of what's coming next - I may be closing this thread/starting a new one or at least moving it to a more suitable forum .

I'm pretty sure I wouldn't enjoy the Air Force nor the Coast Guard; I really dislike flying and I can't swim!

I really don't like flying either, but most of the Air Force, despite its name, never gets up in the air.

I just wish the waivers would come through. I don't know why this is taking so long!

Jinx is far too smart for a live trap. I had moved both Calypso and Ozzie into the house weeks before I was able to lure Jinx into a large "catio" on the deck and even then had to struggle to get him into the house.

Hmm. Are there any traveling vets who could come to you, instead of you trying to catch him?

Dinah, who continues to clean Goo's face even when he protests, is descended from a lot of breeds. Her DNA test lists 10; the most she is of anything is Chihuahua, at 25 percent. Imagine a 25-pound, high-spirited Chihuahua-terrier mix and that's her!

Even though Dr. C said he could feel a soft spot in Goo's lump, I am not at all confident that the meds are helping to heal my poor little guy. He was 15 this spring and had I not taken in that little eyeless kitten, he wouldn't have lasted more than a few months, I'm sure. Losing him is going to be totally heartbreaking.

I'll say a prayer for you and Goo. My Constance isn't doing well either. She's been very thirsty, threw up her breakfast this morning, and wouldn't eat dinner. Of course, now that I write that, she's munching on some leftover kibble .

Friends came out yesterday to help me dust the chickens after I spent most of the day cleaning coops to get rid of mites. It was like an assembly line: Jan held waiting birds while Anna held the current "patient" upside down and I applied the dust. Anna, who is a poultry judge for 4-H shows, also gave pedicures to a few of the hens! But she has cats, so I outfitted her in coveralls and long gloves so she wouldn't take any of the powder home with her. We both wore masks because the dust is so nasty to breathe.

I'm glad you found two good helpers! Will they also be able to pet sit?

Are you making progress on your BYC contest piece?

Yes! Would you like to read it? I'll post it next time!

Not many pictures. I've been too busy!

Daddy Longleg on a Rose

Priscilla

Waiting for a walk

Church

Yet another run to the store...

 

[Callender Girl]

Don't know how soon you're interviewing, so I will address those questions now. Remember, when someone has a job opening, they have a problem that needs to be solved. You are the solution!

If asked, "Why do you want this job?" I would recommend saying you want it because you admire law enforcement officers (give YOUR reasons in your own words -- whether it's because of their service to the community or because of positive interactions you've had with them in the past, whatever is honest for you) and in this job, you feel you will be supporting their efforts. Officers need to be able to find and use supporting documents and records, and you have the ability to make that part of their job easier.

"Why do you think you should be hired?" Here's where you can sing your own praises, and don't be bashful. You are responsible and can multitask. You are detail oriented and know the importance of accuracy (for example, you didn't just make a vintage-style dress, you sought out authentic vintage buttons for the project, not necessarily that anecdote, but something that will play to your strength here). You have both technical and communications skills that will enable you to find and store crucial information.

"What makes you a better candidate than the others?" I would start by saying, "I don't know what the others candidates have said or what their skills are." But, that you know what your skills and strengths are (as we examined in the second answer), and you know you can be an excellent employee and a valued member of their team.

As always, take whatever advice I offer and make it feel like your own answers, not me, answering questions. Good luck handling the interview!

But, when it comes to cleaning your keyboard, I have no good tips!

Hope your dad is right about finishing with the siding, and I'm sorry about the creepy neighbors. I feel safer out here in the country than I did when I lived in town -- more distance between me and other people.

Hmmm, a new forum, huh? That's intriguing.

The only vet I've found who makes "house calls" charges an additional $48 "traveling fee," and I've had both good and bad interactions with him in the past. Sorry to hear that Constance went through a rough patch. I hope she's better now.

My helpers are great but can't pet sit. Jan has a full-time job in town, and Anna works part-time at a funeral home, which means she's often called in with little to no notice. But, they know someone who MIGHT be a possibility, so I'll check that out.

Thanks for the prayer for Goo. He's so little and frail, but as long as he can eat, uses his litter box and climbs upstairs to yowl at me to get out of bed, I will keep giving him medicine to buy him some more time.

I've had many cats over the years, but he is one of, if not the, most memorable. Aside from being born without eyes, he's a normal cat -- that doesn't jump on tables, stoves or counters, all of which are pet peeves of mine. He's got long, silky gray-blue fur except on his ears. It's as if someone ran out of fur when they were putting him together, so his ears have short, thin hair and are always cold to the touch. He was born outdoors, and after bringing him indoors 15 years ago, the vet discovered Goo had ringworm.

In a house of two people, other cats and some dogs, the only one beside Goo who came down with ringworm was me! That's probably because I had to give him special baths every day for a few weeks.

I would be happy to read you BYC piece and am glad that you plan to keep posting, wherever you end up.