5. Recently in learning experiences (1) I can use the space bar on my tablet to move the screen cursor instead of trying to tap the right spot with a fingertip. (2) I changed out several new application icon images using my updated desktop system. Yay, baby steps in tech advancement! 

4. Every time I see a TV commercial for Miracle Spring Water (about once a day, despite fast-forwarding through commercials) I worry a bit more about the future of humanity. I know people have been gullible forever, but...oy.

3. The basement may have floor space again soon. Maybe. I'm not holding my breath. Spouseman is a collector, and letting go of past collections is a hard, hard thing. But...being able to walk around furniture is nice too. He's making an effort. That's a start.

2. Next on the home improvement list: the water heater.  Not a dire need, but it will come sooner than later. (the installation of the house humidifier demonstrated some shortcomings.) 

I am much tempted by the idea of instant, endless hot water via a "tankless" system, so if anyone has opinions pro/con, toss 'em my way. I'm in research mode.

1. Random observation: when I fill the bird feeders, all the birds go from one feeder to the next together, even though more of them would get food if they split up. Recent sightings:  sparrows, goldfinches in winter coats, Mr. Cardinal, juncos, and one seriously cranky chickadee.

The latest in searches:

• Grand Guignol
• chaise lounge history

Media update:

•  Read: re-reading Jo Beverley's Rogues romance collection. Don't judge. I enjoy fantasy. Regency-era romances totally count.
• View: a memorial showing of Princess Bride.

Random cat pic:

No-Context-Snippet from a short story I'll be submitting to the pro market before the end of the year. (When?  As soon as I verify that its tenses are all tidy. The darned thing insisted I re-write it in present tense. 

Pops holds claim over a huge stretch of wilderness beyond his castle, land given over to wild pigs, pygmy deer, albino peacocks, and one fat, lazy bear who used to be a gamekeeper. As I step onto his lands, magic kisses my skin in a cool, tingle of recognition. 

A pale, smooth roadway appears where my foot touches the earth, curving ahead into the gloomy woods.

And that's all the all there is for this time.