It feels so good to have a day at home. I know a few in a row would do me good. I've taken Sudafed and Motrin today. I won't take any over-the-counter medications on work days because I fear they will either make me hyper or sleepy and I don't want to be either.

I've been cooking and assembling food for the party. The bourbon sauce is ready for the meatballs. I don't make my own meatballs anymore; the ones from Sam's Club are just as good. The chutney cheese spread is done. The chipped beef dip is ready for the bread bowl. The hot artichoke dip is ready for the oven. The spinach cheese balls still need to be rolled. The chocolate topped oatmeal bars are cooling. The Chillied nuts are done. Usually I make more appetizers, but this year in addition to the large chafing dish of chili con queso with sausage that my neighbor makes, I know of 4 more people that are bringing appetizers. When people ask if they can bring something, I usually say that a dessert would be wonderful. I usually don't make the desserts. I know of three people who are bringing desserts, and I made one just to be sure there's enough. Everyone who comes to my party knows to come very hungry. I can't wait to eat all that good stuff.

The carbon monoxide alarm went off again this morning. At least it wasn't during the night. This time I called the fire department. They told me to wait outside the house for them to come. They checked all over the house and concluded that I have a faulty monitor. I'll buy a new one very soon. I'm relieved to know all is well.

It's another bleary, gray, rainy day. The bright spot looking out my window has been the sight of woodpeckers, cardinals, and other assorted songbirds at the feeder. I'd love to take a picture, but every time I get close enough, they fly away.

I'm going to sit on the couch now and roll those spinach balls while watching TV. I hope all is well with you, my on-line friends. Thanks for being a part of my life.