Friday Miscellaneous

This is just a little bit of a catch-up post.

Because of the small writing assignment I lost, I've had the last two weeks off. I needed the time. I've been sort of mentally fried because of the type of writing assignments I've had this summer--all very demanding.

We're having an exceptionally warm autumn in the Chicago region, with an unusually late frost. (Our average first frost date is about October 15. We haven't had one yet, and we're not predicted to have one for at least ten days.) Because of that, I've been able to spend about 15 hours working to clean up my poor neglected garden. Usually, I can't garden from August to frost because of weed pollen, but this year my allergies are so much better because of my dietary changes that I'm weeding like crazy . . . and hardly taking any allergy medicine in spite of all the pollen. Incredible.

I've also spent some time working on my novel revision. (The first draft of my third novel is finished, but I need to condense and polish it.) I have been neglecting that task, mostly because I'm spending so much time blogging, but the last week I started working on it again. It feels good, and I intend to keep at it now even if that means spending somewhat less time here.

After my Tuesday post, several people asked me about where I sponsor children in need. So just in case there was anyone who wondered but didn't ask, I'll give the information here:

I use Compassion International.

I use them because they are considered one of the most financially responsible. (Some groups spend too much money on administration. With Compassion, 80% goes to the children.) They are also great about keeping in touch. I get letters about four times a year and photos once a year, and I can send letters to my kids online. It's been fun. Asuman and I have had exchanges about how far Uganda is from "my district" and about comparing American football to soccer.

The cost to sponsor one child is $32 a month. If that's too much, Compassion also accepts one-time donations instead of ongoing sponsorships.

Finally, I'll leave you with a few more photos of our trip to the Chicago Botanic Garden from last week.

Have a good Friday.

P.S. The first comment by Nikkipolani reminded me that I meant to give you an update about Smokey. He's been on fish oil for three weeks and glucosamine for about two weeks, and he's tolerating both quite well. (He has a lot of digestive issues.) The doctor said he'd have to be on these meds 4 to 6 weeks to really have an effect on his joints, but he hasn't had a problem with his knee since September 30, so that in itself is a good thing. Oh, and his coat is so shiny now from the fish oil!