Brrr! It is cold here in SOUTHERN California (for a change). Dull and dreary - looks like it might rain. I did go walk/jog in the am but I warmed up after the first block. Looks like DH will start a fire in the fireplace to warm up the house. We do keep the thermostat at about 68 overnight, although I am trying to talk DH into lowering it a bit. My side of the argument is that I can lower the electric bill; and his is that he has noticed that we have less colds, etc. at 68 degrees. So for now it is a tie!

We got back from a few days at our own "country property" in the next county. DD had fun riding the ATV all by herself; and I got lots of hiking done on dirt roads. DD joined me on two hikes (mostly uphill on the first half) and did really well (about 2500' elevation). She is going to an outdoor science camp in the mountains in January and they will be doing lots of hiking in the snow. Even though we have been skiing in Mammoth in the past, she is VERY excited about this trip. The class goes for the whole week along with their teachers. I almost wish I could go.

We did really well on not eating out yesterday. On our way home we usually stop at a Chinese place for take out. It is not expensive and does last for at least 3 meals but DH just wanted to go home. So we had leftovers. Roast chicken, garlic bread, carrots, and salad tasted great and no $$ shelled out. Tonight we be leftover steak, curly fries (from the freezer), veggies, and salad. I also have chocolate chip cookies that I baked last night.


DD and DH are busy repacking the Christmas tree and ornaments back into the boxes until December. I was very good this year and bought very little Christmas items at after-Christmas sales. We went to Target last night and I only bought tissue paper for the zillions of gift bags that we have. 75% off was a good price. Target never has anything at 90% off that I can use. We still have lots of wrapping paper because I buy that at extremely reduced prices. I did buy LED outdoor lights for DH at CVS at 50% off before Christmas with a store coupon and ECB's. That will help with the electricity bill as well.

Finally bit the bullet and ordered fiber optic internet for home. I had been procrastinating for too long. I was able to get the first month free from Verizon by ordering online. Installation will be next week. I had been using my work laptop with broadband access so DH and DD have not gotten the internet time that they wanted. Hopefully the installation will go smoothly.

Well, I need to try to enjoy the weekend because I am back to work on Monday!