A Couple of Purchases

Can you believe Christmas is in three days?  We're looking forward to spending time with family & enjoying Christmas with our grand baby here....it's wonderful to see the excitement in her this year.....

We needed to replace our ash metal canister vacuum.....the old one's hose was being held together with duck tape...it was time for a new one.  I reviewed various models online and this economical one has great reviews & available on Amazon....it's a bit smaller but works really well for cleaning out the pellet stove.  It is bagless...and made of metal in the event of vacuuming  up a hot coal...that is usually not an issue as we let the stove go stone cold before cleaning it out....but better to be safe than sorry....

In the winter we use our crockpot....a lot.  Have you discovered the liners for them?  Genius invention..I find .they work really well.  I was skeptical in the beginning....but after using them a few times I'm sold! 

Talk about easy cleanup!  I wasn't able to find them in the stores here & rather than spend time fighting traffic & the crowds I ordered these ones on Amazon....

And talk about sticker price shock!!  Inspired Living was having a sale on their Christmas inventory....not a huge sale - 25% off....when I saw this cute dachshund I wanted it.  The price - $74,99!!!  *thud*.

Even with 25% off....it was still over priced!  And it weighs about as much as styrofoam....not a heavy, stuffed piece at all.   I left disappointed....and empty handed.   The store was full of shoppers.....checkout was lined up....no spots left in the parking lot either....I honestly didn't see any 'big deals.....

My wins from the recent dachshund rescue auction arrived....is this hot water bottle (included inside) not adorable?  I also won a calendar from Atlantic Canada Dachshund Rescue in a draw....this is the 25th anniversary of the rescue group working in the Maritime provinces....with myself being a founding member joining the group all those years ago.  

Myself & a few other members worked hard for 12+ years here rehoming dachshunds in need....fostering...transporting...fundraising & placing them in loving, new homes.  I retired from the group a number of years ago.....but have recently rejoined to assist with home visits for potential adopters, reference checks, transports and fundraising.  I won't be fostering again....since I think one pup will keep us busy enough.....but never say never....

This adorable felted tree ornament is hung on our tree....wouldn't I love to have about half a dozen of them....

And with that my friends.....I'll peace out for today!  It's currently snow squalling out there....Mr. Seventies & I have appointments today & tomorrow.....and a couple of last minute errands to take care of.....

Have an awesome day & thanks so much for visiting with me .....

Please join me later today.....I'll be sharing  over at https://betweennapsontheporch.net/ for Metamorphosis Monday....my last link party for 2025!   

Til next time....

My Auction Wins

A dachshund rescue group held an online auction recently.....and I was the highest bidder on three items....(all for great prices)....this beautiful, handmade snuggle sak with no reserve bid.....for $20!   These normally sell for $40 & up....gorgeous soft fabric & a generous size.....

This was Liesel's snuggle sak....not used as she was not a burrower.....most dachshunds are....our Schatzi loved to crawl to the bottom of hers & snooze for hours....Liesel not so much....for some reason I kept it.....

This adorable hot water bottle cover is also another win.....and will be arriving any day....so cute....

Along with this felted tree ornament....can't wait to hang it on the tree...

I was happy to help out the fundraising online event...the group shared they raised around $1,700....money to help vet dogs in their care....

I'm dipping my toe back into the dachshund rescue world....not as a foster home....but there is so much "behind the scenes" help needed....calling references, home visits for potential adopters, fundraising and assisting with transports of dachshunds to get where they need to go.....whether to a foster home, vet visit or the Atlantic Veterinary Hospital for care....

I chose not to foster this time around....(having fostered a number of dachshunds in recent years).....that may change down the road.....but we will be busy in 2026 with our new arrival...puppy & obedience classes, house training & getting our pup settled in.....we may visit fostering again.

I was a previous "foster fail".....needing to adopt our last foster dog.   It happens to pretty much to most who foster...there will be that one dog that comes in ...  Xena our first wirehair was eight years old when we came to foster her.....and she never left.

Having fostered many dachshunds before her.... sending them on their way to their new homes....once Xena arrived....we were then a three dachshund home!  

I wouldn't take back any of my rescue & foster experiences..... this time around I'll be happy to help out behind the scenes. 

We didn't get as much snow as forecasted on Monday....still a messy, windy day!  The next few days look milder....with no storms lurking about....

I greatly appreciate you spending your time with me....

Til next time....

Monday Catch Up-Another Storm, Dachshund Rescue Event & More

Another snow storm forecasted for today....a Nor'easter....so winds & snow!  The amount of snow varies....depending where you live on the Island.  Some areas have visibility issues with blowing or drifting snow.   I rescheduled my nail appointment til Wednesday.  I'm booked with a new to me salon....one much closer to our house..... It's highly rated with 5/5 reviews.  .Plan to stay snuggled up by the pellet stove today ,,....

Had an awesome time at this event over the weekend!  I'm no longer a member of dachshund rescue (giving it strong consideration to join again tho).....the president & dear friend was at the event & came to visit that evening...we ordered pizza & caught up.....

Ren's Pet store is only 3 km or so from our house....not only was your pet able to have pics with Mrs Claus....the rescue was holding a fundraiser & educating awareness of the group and their mission to re-home rescues....

A couple of adorable dachshunds I managed to snap photos of....this gorgeous pie boy is from the same breeder our pup is coming from.....is he not gorgeous?? (although a tad on the pudgy side)....

Walter was not impressed with his snog (hat)....but for a treat....he tolerated it well.... 

This is Larry....a beautiful long hair boy......his fur was so soft...like silk....I had the pleasure of snuggling with him....

There were many breeds that came in (and a few cats) to have their photo with Mrs. Claus....I saw beagles, pugs, boxer, golden retrievers poodles and more ....most left a donation for rescue....yay!!

These fun loving gals....Lynn on the left (President of ACDR) and member Leah on the right....

When we donated Liesel's things to rescue....it was Leah's husband who came to pick everything up.  When he arrived home with it all.....he told Leah he would never complain about the about of dog items she buys for their two dachshunds....since we had soooo much stuff.....and only one dog!

Leah currently has a smooth and long hair doxie....having lost their wirehair last Christmas)....they were so grateful of our donation.  It was where I wanted Liesel's things to go....she is helping little ones that come into rescue with her warm snuggly blankets, toys & sweaters....

Mrs. Claus was pulling double duty.....tending to cash & having photos taken with pets.....she's one busy woman!

Lynn....chatting with folks.....notice the footwear....she is such a fun gal & makes it look so easy....chatting & educating folks about the breed.....and rescue & the work they do....how can you not love her??

Mr. Seventies put together the new car seat....a simple task...

Once all put together.....the tether that attaches to the dog is much sturdier than the previous ones we had....the seat has openings on the sides where you slide the seat belt through....under neath  the back....through the tether....out the other side & then clicks into the seat bels clasp in the SUV.....holding the seat tight & secure in the back seat....

While at Ren's....I picked up the most awesome smelling doggie shampoo & spray.... along with ear cleaning solution.....since we will be grooming this pup ourselves....I still have to pick up doggie toothpaste & toothbrush...

I had enough air miles points to convert to Amazon e-vouchers.....among the things I ordered....was a 6 ft. leather leash.....(6 ft. is the required length for training as well)....and leather.....lasts forever.....

I had the opportunity to check out harnesses at the pet store.....I suspect as with two of our previous dachshunds who arrived as puppies..... I needed cat harnesses.....as dog harnesses just don't seem to fit as well for small pups.  I didn't purchased one....but will need to have one on hand when he/she arrives.....

While out & about I browsed Winners.....and came across a couple of adorable items....(I resisted buying)..

I'm obsessed with these slippers.....but since I currently have three pairs....I restrained....but it was difficult not to buy them.....

We spent an enjoyable evening catching up with our dear neighbours.....at their home & plans are already in the works for another get together at our home between Christmas & New Year....

We didn't get to the Santa Claus parade where daughter & family live....since we had company that evening....but the weather was perfect evening for it....clear & not too cold.  Grand daughter had a most wonderful time!! 

Please join me later today over at https://betweennapsontheporch.net/ for Metamorphosis Monday & tomorrow I'll be sharing with Joanne at https://www.myslicesoflife.com/ for Talking About It Tuesdays....

Thanks so much for spending your time with me....I so appreciate you!   

Til next time....

Libre 3 - Glucose Monitoring System

I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes almost nine years ago.....and in all that time I've managed my blood sugars with diet & exercise.   Apparently lately, my levels tend to drop....anything under 4.0 is considered low blood sugar.

I've never had any symptoms of  low sugars....but that doesn't seem to wash with the medical care providers.   I suspect....when I don't eat...my sugars drop.  To circumvent that....I eat small meals & snacks during the day.

My physician sent me to a diabetes counsellor.....and I now have the Libre 3 glucose monitoring system to wear for the next two weeks.   It was provided to me....and all that is required is to have it stuck on my arm & my levels are now monitored by an app on my phone.

This system is seldom covered by private health insurance companies.....mine included.  The cost....without insurance is about $200/month.  In order to qualify for coverage....insulin daily is required. The discs are worn in 15 day intervals....so two each month are required....at $100 each.  Now the lancets monitoring strips & glucometer are covered by health insurance....no insulin required.  This is the system I have....works fine.  

Now, I offered to test daily, (as I did for a number of years) with my glucose monitor...(aka the finger poke method)....but with the Libre....the doctor & counsellor have access to my readings.   It was provided with no cost to me...

Happy  I am only required to participate for two weeks....just sayin'.   Yesterday, while I was folding laundry....in the laundry room....the alarm on my phone went off....indicating a blood sugar level of 3.9.   It reads your levels every 60 minutes....and mine was fine prior to & after this alarm.  I don't believe my levels dropped....and rebounded that quick.  

I have the ability to shut off the alarm setting & did so.  Can you imagine that going off during the night?  Um no thanks.

Anyhow....this is the disc that is placed on my arm....and how the app reads on your phone...

 My neighbour....who is not insulin dependent either has this system...(she works for a health insurance company).....I'll be happy not to have it!  I understand it can be dangerous is your blood sugar level goes too low....I've never had any symptoms of that happening....ever. 

Today, I have a dental appointment to start the process of crowns & a bridge installation....to replace the implant I had removed in October.   The dentist will use a high tech scanner to take precise measurements to send to the lab.....to build said crowns & bridge.  I think sometime in January they will be installed....I'm sure there's a couple of other steps before then.....be glad when all is said & done.

Mr. Seventies sister sends us a beautiful Christmas arrangement each year....and this one was delivered the other day.....exactly what the table needed....

We are to get a mixed bag of weather the next couple of days....everything from a bit of snow, rain & a bit of freezing rain.   Welcome to winter. 

Have an awesome day....and until next time....

Old Man Winter Has Arrived

I had hoped he wouldn't show up for a few weeks....but he is anxious to get the ball rolling!  Last week saw bitter windchills for a couple of days.....along with high winds & a bit of snow.....enough to close schools for two days....a good old fashioned Nor'easter blew on in.....

Today we have what's called an Alberta clipper..... storms coming in from the Pacific....and forms another low....the jet stream then whips it our way!  Not a lot of snow accumulation.....but cold temps could follow.... 

And that is all I know about these weather systems....there will not be a quiz....

I've tested my new boots & they are so warm, comfortable.....and have a great tread on them.  The brand name is Kamik....I especially like how they zip up....as well as no laces...just pull the elastic closure tight....

Very comfortable & lightweight for going on walks....and waterproof is a huge benefit.....(I'm wearing my flannel lined jeans on this day....much warmer than unlined jeans for winter walking).....

Maurices was having a sale....sweaters were buy one.....get one 50% off....I'm all about sweaters....

I love wearing them under a long, plaid shirt....or I'll put a lighter long sleeve t-shirt or cami underneath..I chose size medium in both of them......

Remember the clip on candles I purchased to add to our tree?  The remote has stopped working!  Mr. Seventies has tried a couple of batteries....to no avail.  We'll pick up new batteries....maybe the ones we have are drained....each candle holds one AA battery....and I have no plans to screw each one on & off separately to have them lit up....and the time frame for returning them has passed...

And again.....Amazon has left me head scratching....I know we will be needing a car seat for our new pup...and since I had purchased this one prior...(three times - even before Amazon)...when we had three dachshunds....plus we gifted one to our then grand-dog.   If I remember....the first one I purchased was back before 2014....

The brand name has changed....but the car seat is the same....when I saw it on Amazon for the low price of $37.50.....my jaw dropped!  I paid at least four times the price for the previous ones!  The exact same seat....in navy & white....in the same listing as this one for $135.40!  Go figure....

You can bet I ordered the brown one (identical to ones I purchased prior).  This seat is so secure....the base is hard, solid vinyl with slits to run the SUV seat belt through & hook on the opposite side.....there is a tether in the seat that is secured to the dog's harness....keeping it safe & secure!

I was extremely nervous having loose pups in the SUV while driving.....and this seat is a game changer....the covers come off for easy washing & drying as well.   My only reasoning for such a price difference is perhaps they are clearing out "old stock"....I don't pretend to understand the seller, in this case offering it as such a low price....some items are sold my Amazon....but this one lists a seller....and is only shipped by Amazon.....

Sometimes, Amazon will attempt to push you to contact the seller if you are having an issue.  Don't do it.  If Amazon doesn't stand behind its sellers....why should I not purchase directly  through the seller....and not deal with Amazon?  That question usually gets results from Amazon...and they offer a refund quicker than you can snap your fingers.

Same goes, if the seller insists you pay for return shipping!  Not if you are a Prime member....that is what I you pay monthly for....so you can avoid return shipping fees. The mere mention of cancelling your Prime membership....will bring Amazon around to either offering a full refund.....or email a pre-paid return shipping label.  I was born at night ....but it wasn't last night....just sayin'......

My doxie candle holder arrived from Bath & Body Works....(the $10 off coupon got me).....and I'm crushing hard on it....and my doxie vehicle air freshener is already clipped to the visor....along side  my previous one purchased a few years back....

We have a busy week of appointments....the drawbacks of aging as most are medical & dental related....Mr. Seventies is requiring a knee x-ray this afternoon.  No complaints.....we are thrilled to have a family physician....who is amazing btw!  

We had daughter & family for dinner last evening....steaming bowls of delicious chilli, garlic bread & caesar salad....and carrot cake for dessert....

In previous years, we have spent Christmas Eve with them at their home, with snacks & exchanging gifts.  This year....we will be enjoying them in our home ...... a nice change.  We will enjoy Christmas Day afternoon & dinner with them & son-in-law's family at their home....it's wonderful since we don't have to prepare a huge meal ourselves....

We used to always celebrate with them at their home....since Liesel was a reactive dog & couldn't be trusted with grand baby or her parents....(Liesel was unpredictable & possessive).   Rather than risk an incident....it was much easier to leave her at home.   We hope to avoid a repeat of that situation with our next pup....will give him/her lots of exposure to people, other dogs & places....and have everyone  handle & feel safe with the pup...once full vaccinations are completed....

We fully intend to join puppy socialization & obedience classes...(even though Liesel attended both)....she was four months old when we obtained her & by that time some of her "quirks" were already in place....we continually worked with her....but she tended to be unpredictable....

We have finished our shopping....everything is wrapped & under the tree....we can sit back & enjoy the season!  Traffic & the stores....are packed....and it's no fun getting around the city!  Very glad we don't have to.....

Be sure to& join me over at https://betweennapsontheporch.net/ for Metamorphosis Monday & again tomorrow at https://www.myslicesoflife.com/ for Talking About It Tuesdays....

Thanks so much for spending your time with me....have you finished your shopping?  

Til next time....

Little Bit of Christmas

We scaled back on the decorating this year....I'm ok with that.  I had planned to put a tree in the master bedroom....I guess in a way.....there is a tree there...

Albeit ceramic & battery operated...

My heart feels happy I can add some of my doxie stash to the bed....the wire dachshund stuffy is one of my favourite pieces!  I've given daughter quite a few pieces ....she is a true dachshund Mama, as well.  Someday, they will open their hearts to adding another to their family.....currently like most young families, they are busy with work, extra-curricular activities....and being parents....they have lots of time yet to bring in a new family member....

I don't remember where I purchased the cushion....I have another I purchased at Macy's in New York....I'll have Mr. Seventies check the linen closet downstairs for it....

We needed to put the warmer comforter set back on the bed....and matching curtain panels.  Even with the electric blanket....the summer quilt from PB was not warm enough....

Little bit of Christmas in the family room as well....just enough to have the feels....

The wooden Santa dachshund was my very first purchase from Inspired Living.....a few years ago when they were just a pop up Christmas decor store....in a different location as well....

Did you happen to see our little "Lowrider"?  Squeeze the spot on his ear....he'll dance & play the tune "Lowrider".   Not one of our doxies liked him.....not one little bit!   We'll have to see how our new pup reacts to him....next Christmas!

Speaking of our new pup.....I picked up another wire crate on FB Marketplace for $20!  It's like new....all washed, dried & folded down & stored in the guest bedroom closet.....with the rest of the accumulated puppy stash...

I'm hopeful we can crate train this pup to sleep in the crate overnight....it's been a minute since we've had a pup!  When Schatzi first arrived.....at four months of age....she was having no part of it.....and ended up in the "big crate" with us.   Once Oskar & Xena arrived....they all had their own beds in our bedroom...

Since this pup will likely be much younger....I suspect some cuddling will be involved to tell the fear & loneliness .  I'm considering getting a bed much lower to the floor....the current four post bed is way too high for a pup to be in the bed.....if it ever fell out....could be catastrophic.....will have to play it by ear.....

And this happened over night....wet, slushy snow!  They've closed schools for the day....it's a sloppy mess....not as windy as predicted.....yet...it won't stick around long....

 It's the kind of day we'll enjoy a hot chocolate & work on a Christmas puzzle I've had for a while now....

We're celebrating the holiday season with neighbours on Friday & Saturday evenings....looking forward to enjoyable get togethers.... 

Thanks so much for spending time with me.....

Til next time.....

My Latest Finds & Visit to Wheatons

Welcome to a brand new month!!  Only 24 days til Christmas!!  How's your shopping going?  The stores here have been insanely busy....and traffic is crazy for such a small Island!  We are almost ready for the big day....if I'm in the stores it's only to get in everyone's way....

I want to share my latest finds....sort of Merry Christmas to me!   When I visited Bath & Body Works on the mainland.....I could not resist these doxie items....side note - there is a rumour Bath & Body Works is opening a store here....(could just be a rumour....)......this is an air freshener visor clip for the SUV....I have one I purchased a number of years ago....but this pretty little one is adorable...(I have a few of the discs that go inside)....fitting for the holiday season....

I hauled Mr. Seventies into the store.....to show him this!  The heart wants what the heart wants!  I did not resist.....

When your favourite pj store is having a 2 for 1 sale....it's hard to resist!  I purchased this cozy set for myself....and gave the same set to daughter....so snuggly for those cold nights! (pardon the early morning bedhead!!)

I came across these sheets in Home Sense...& while 100% cotton....they are very nice....washed & dried beautifully....I've find Laura Ashley sheets to be decent quality at a decent price.....this toile pattern goes well with our toile bedding.....

I was in need of a pair of warm, waterproof, rubber soled winter boots....and these hopefully fit the bill....I wasn't concerned about the "look" as much as having a suitable pair of boots for our winters!  The Columbia boots I currently have...while super warm & waterproof....are like adding 5 pound weight to each foot!  (in my opinion).....I'll give these ones a go...if they are a bit more lightweight....I'm good to go...

I have been searching for weeks for a knee length puffer vest....to no avail!  You'd think it would be an easy find....but it hasn't been....I found this one on Amazon....it will arrive tomorrow.  I cannot wear a heavy jacket when out & about....hoping a warm hoodie & vest will work....

And lastly for this round of my recent purchases.....this mattress protector is currently on our bed....and it is amazing quality for a great price!  It looks really dark....it's more of a gray colour - (not black as it looks in the photo)  & is so soft & comfortable......sleeping on anything firm is a killer for my lower back.....

While on the mainland, I visited Wheaton's a home decor & furniture store.  There are additional stores in other cities in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.....this was my first visit to the store in Moncton.....

Firstly, the parking lot was just about full....Mr. Seventies was lucky to sneak into a parking spot.....and the store was just about as full!  I thought perhaps there was a huge sale going on....tax free sale perhaps....but no such promotions were on....a great price on holiday cushions tho....

Adorable hot pads....great for setting hot pots and dishes on....

These adorable "mug rugs"..... coasters were some of my favourite.....

In addition to a jam packed store of awesomeness.....there was an additional "Christmas Room".....I was fully overwhelmed & it takes a lot to overwhelm me.....but this room was a lot for the eye & brain to comprehend....(in a good way)....

So many decorated trees......I won't assault your senses with photos of all of them.....it was Christmas overload....I chose a couple of my favourites.....

And the store carries some gorgeous canvases......this one for under $100 was calling to me......(I need more wall space).....

I took a quick peek into the furniture side of the store.....Wheaton's sell high quality, Canadian made furniture....like this gorgeous dining set...and rocking chair....

There was a vast assortment of additional furniture...a number of beds & bedroom pieces.....all exceptional quality.....

Believe it or not....I didn't purchase anything!  Lots I wanted to....but the cash...(three of them).....were lined up to the back of the store & moving incredibly slow!   I don't have the patience to stand forever in line ups.....give me a self checkout any day!  There was a great assortment of wax tarts I was interested in.....but left empty handed!

In other news.....we have our first "Special Weather Statement".....potential snowfall & high northeasterly winds...from Tuesday afternoon through until Wednesday afternoon!  Ugh. 

Anytime we get winds with any amount of snowfall.....means a messy day or two with potential power outages!  

Such is life!  We'll hunker down with hot chocolate & gingerbread cookies & wait out the storm!

Please join me later today over at https://betweennapsontheporch.net/ for Metamorphis Monday & I'll be sharing on Tuesday with Joanne at https://www.myslicesoflife.com/ for Talking About It Tuesdays..... 

Thanks so much for stopping by.....

Til next time....