Monthly Wrap-Ups Archives

Category: Monthly Wrap-Ups

ECONOGAL > Monthly Wrap-Ups

August 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on August 31, 2026August 31, 2026 by Econogal

While the triple digit heat remained in the first half of August 2026, monsoon weather grew stronger as the month passed. We have had rain almost every night for the last ten days. Quite the respite from the dry windy days. However, the amount has not been enough to erase the drought.

So, gardening (aka pulling weeds that grow out of thin air) in the mornings and quilting or reading filled the afternoons. The dog days of summer are slowly passing by. Other locations in the world have not been as lucky. Melting glaciers and flash floods have filled the headlines. Mother Nature continues to rule over man.

Another baby quilt was completed in August 2026 and yet another started. A traditional Log Cabin was made for the younger of the “Cousin Twins.” Since it had a panel for the backing, it appears to be two sided.

The new quilt is a corner Log Cabin. A twist on my favorite pattern which I have not made before. The eight blocks are complete, and I am playing with the configuration. Reds, greens and creamy yellows make a nice combination. My goal is to complete this one in time for Christmas gift giving.

Both of the fifteen-month-olds seem to like their respective quilts. The oldest received his just in time for his birthday. While one of the fabrics is key in both, they are quite distinct. I may do the same with the identical twins since it worked so well with the “Cousin Twins.”

Fantastic finds from the new release table at the public library made for great reading this month. However, I grabbed a book by a popular author on Friday to read over the weekend. Less than a quarter of the way through I put it down. She has written over 150 novels and if I have read any of them it was decades ago. The dialogue was stilted and the plot sequence was terrible. I hope these well-known New York Times best-selling authors have not resorted to using AI.

Furthermore, the publisher should be ashamed for releasing a book with so many errors. And maybe it is time to give a new author a shot. Harper Collins, I am directing this at you.

On the positive side, the end of the year list will be difficult to determine. Many new authors as well as new to me authors are writing remarkable stories. The second in the series by Alice Henderson was checked out and I like to read books in order when they are in series format. So, I found another debut novelist. My hope is for a much better experience than above.

The final days of August 2026 produced shorter days with highs in the 90s instead of the triple digit brutal heat that started the month. As we count the days down to the equinox, the trend should continue, However, a freeze on Labor Day such as in 2020 is not on the table.

Several more book reviews are already in the pipeline including the outstanding Fishbone Cinderella by Elizabeth Lim. Outstanding fiction is everywhere, so I will no longer finish a book just to finish it. People do change over the course of a lifetime!

July 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on July 31, 2026July 31, 2026 by Econogal

July 2026 on the High Plains continued to be hot and dry. Even a dry heat is uncomfortable once you hit triple digits. As a result, the veggies in the garden struggle to survive. Stunted tomatoes and tomatillos look great compared to the eggplant and cucumbers which barely flower.

In contrast, the fruit trees and bushes ripened early and they did not taste as sweet as usual. The smaller yield became even smaller due to birds taking more than usual. The timing of the spring frosts reduced the amount of natural food in the form of chokecherries and mulberries. Both varieties produced little to no fruit.

Catching Up: End June 2026 and Begin July 2026

Posted on July 2, 2026July 2, 2026 by Econogal

An overpacked June 2026 caught me behind and now I am catching up. The first three weekends involved out-of-state travel. Both business and pleasure encompassed the first two trips and the last was pure pleasure as we met our newest grandchild.

Squeezing chores in during the weekdays became more challenging as the month churned on. Furthermore, infrastructure improvements to the gas lines in the neighborhood filled the air with construction noises. I endured lots of beeps of backward moving equipment along with grinding engines and power tools breaking apart concrete. Hard hats knocking on doors and controlling traffic. However, once complete, peace of mind will compensate for June 2026’s distractions.

Weeds spring up daily. While raised row gardening protects the Big Garden, the side garden, back patio, front walkway rock garden and the newest garden strip are under attack. Grasses remain the primary culprit. Fireweed, goat heads and bindweed show up as well.

Two young helpers pop by from time to time as swim practice and ball games allow. They also watered on the weekends. Neither they nor their parents know that a former garden helper won the Boettcher scholarship after moving away from here. Good work habits start early.

May 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on May 31, 2026May 31, 2026 by Econogal

Decades have passed since I was last in Houston and even more years since I lived there. Early May is a nice time to visit. My goal for the trip was to help set up a nursery and wrap up storage organization after a recent move for one of my offspring. Everything was great until the final day.

A trip to a nearby quilt shop yielded two fabrics perfect for curtains in the nursery. An old-fashioned Winnie-the- Pooh allover print and a brown plaid to coordinate. The fabric was spotted within five minutes of entering. However, due to a shopper buying two yards of nearly three dozen fabrics it took over an hour of waiting before we could check out. Things went downhill from there.

Since arriving, I had looked forward to going back to one of my favorite restaurants from my days as a resident. As usual the food was great. Noise from the table behind me a little loud; they were having a fun time. But just as we were leaving someone at the table scooted their chair backwards into the server. Plates teeter-tottered and came crashing down soaking several people including me. The day ended as it began, with a failure of customer service.

After unseasonably warm weather from late February through April, May brought snow, sleet and a hard freeze. Exactly the opposite of what a gardener wants. Blooming plants froze and the ground temperature regressed below ideal. Now my peach trees, including the half plum one are dropping yellow leaves. Somehow, one still has peaches growing.

The cherry trees are a bit smarter. They did not blossom as early. But the wacky weather has red fruit in May 2026. About three weeks too soon.

Fortunately, we just had an all day drizzle that has perked up most of the plants. Much better than the usual downpours. (Although we had one of those this past week as well.)

I attempted my first audio book this month. I failed to complete it. Perhaps the local library will have it. The online order quoted over $20 for a paperback book released several years ago. Too much for me.

Naturally, reading was slow due to compromised vision.

However, Mary Kubicka’s It’s Not Her was just completed. It follows a trend I am uncomfortable with. Tweens misuse of social media or AI leading to death. Culpability By Brice Holsinger was my first encounter. Unlike Holsinger’s early disclosure, Kubicka’s story retains the suspense. So, the book was nearly finished before this reader figured out the triggering event of the Tweens. I have yet to finish Culpability.

I am very disturbed by this trend of blaming actions by children for deaths; accidents or murders. Is this truly a reflection of society? A subtle indictment on modern parenting? Surely alternative plotting exists.

April 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on April 30, 2026April 30, 2026 by Econogal

Cold Frame containing tomato and lettuce plants. — Cold Frame

I have two varieties of peaches in the side yard. The free-stone type takes longer to bud out. This is actually beneficial since once again the younger, cling-stone tree blossomed out before one of the final cold snaps. Last year the same thing happened and only about six peaches were harvested from it. This year, I predict even fewer. On the other hand, my Elberta is loaded with small fruit. Thus, it will need thinning in May.

The cold frame I purchased last summer from a neighbor who moved out of town is a great addition. All the garden plants spent several days and nights in the unit before transplanting.

This year the oak tree once again leafed out in late April. My May schedule is so crazy I planted most of the garden early. Only eggplants, melons and a few peppers remain in the cold frame. The inside seed starts are complete.

March 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on March 31, 2026March 31, 2026 by Econogal

Artichoke after overwintering with green leaves — Artichoke

The wacky weather on the High Plains brought warmer than usual temperatures during March 2026. We have been cutting asparagus for a week now. They popped up before any spring rains. But the highlight of the garden was the survival of at least one of the artichokes. The very mild winter most likely contributed to that. So, I will be harvesting artichokes for the first time.

Multiple seeds are growing into seedlings either under the lights in the basement or in the cold frame outside. Patience now comes into play. The old oak tree shows little sign of leafing out yet. As long-time readers know, I rely on Mother Nature’s signs to start transplanting into the ground.

January 2026 Wrap-Up

Posted on February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 by Econogal

Small 9 x 11 doll quilt in rainbow ordered strips of various patterns. — Front of doll quilt

The temperatures really fluctuated during the day this month, from below freezing to almost seventy degrees Fahrenheit. But once the sun goes down the temperatures plummet below freezing. Small towns on the High Plains lack the concrete infrastructure to hold onto the heat. Perfect weather for working on quilts.

This month brought both piecing and hand quilting. Best of all, it gave me a chance to help my oldest grandchild sew her first doll quilt. She is tall enough to reach the foot peddle on the sewing machine. It did take some practice to regulate the speed.

Quilt backing made from fabric with a checkerboard type of print. — Doll Quilt Backing

The strip quilt was 9 x 11, perfect for a Barbie doll. She picked out a favorite scrap and then several additional scrap strips to blend with it. I helped her with the rotary cutting. She also made a pre-printed Barbie tablecloth to give to her younger sister who loves to have tea parties and picnics with her dolls.

In addition to the reviewed books, two other reviews will drop in the next week to ten days. The delightful Bob Seay book, I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees and the super scary at the start Amanda Quick Romance, The Bride Wore White.

Additionally, I calmed my nerves with the re-reading of Dolores Johnson’s cozy murder mystery Pressed to Kill from the Mandy Dyer Series set in Denver, Colorado. I also treated myself to a favorite Catherine Coulter medieval action/romance The Valcourt Heiress.

My diagnosis is too many Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) and the number and symptoms are such that corrections with changes in lifestyle and medication fall short. So, I will have a PVC Ablation at the start of the week. One of my aunts has had the procedure along with others I know. It is amazing what types of medical interventions we have.

So, January 2026 passed slowly. But now I am on the eve of a heart procedure that should bring relief and prevent the muscle from deteriorating. Because the heart is the most important muscle one has, I want to keep mine as strong as possible.

December 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on December 31, 2025December 31, 2025 by Econogal

December 2025 was a blur. Partly because I finally succumbed to Covid. Fortunately, I am a believer in vaccines, and my symptoms amounted to some sneezing and a bit of a headache. My spouse, who had made time for the flu shot but not the Covid shot, did not fare well. In fact, the only thing that staved off a visit to the E.R. was the cans of Boost oxygen I have on hand as part of my home emergency kit. For those of you that are anti-mRNA, Novovax makes a traditional vaccine that took several years to develop.

Then, after testing negative again-it took about a week, even though I never developed a fever or sore throat, I traveled to Florida to spend Christmas with one of my offspring. Long time readers will remember the flip-house where he resides.

Tomorrow begins a new year. Resolutions are hard to keep throughout the entire twelve months. In the past, I have tried to keep readers updated on my goals. Last year, I am not even sure I made any resolutions and I certainly didn’t keep them if I did. 2025 was a whirlwind of travel and fortunately new life. The two grandkids born twenty days apart have about six more months before a new little one claims the spot of newest in the family.

So, any new resolutions need to stay simple. Very simple. Maybe stretching everyday can be a start.

I took a few photos from the Florida house. This was a foreclosure we bought in July of 2019 and intended to flip. Well, we fell in love with the new layout. A few walls came down but it is not the one huge open space that was the trend at the time. The house lives larger than the square footage. A family member claimed the flip as home.

We were busy in the kitchen most of the time and pictures of the bedrooms were off limits for privacy reasons. But I thought you might enjoy the update. Happy New Year everyone.

November 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on November 30, 2025November 30, 2025 by Econogal

Fronds of artichoke plant popping through thick layer of mulch. — Artichoke plant not wanting to stay dormant.

November 2025 was a transition month. The start was warmer than expected for the season. Temperatures were summer-like. Plus, a few rainy days and lots of wind. No snow yet. The weather experienced was more like Octobers of the past. But the seasons are changing.

Proof of the odd weather was the covered artichokes popping through the mulch. New growth occurred due to rain and warm weather. These plants were not re-trimmed. Instead, additional mulch was added. The third plant did not grow through the protective layer. It was the one surrounded by the bricks first. So, there are interesting notes for the experiment.

Finally, the end of the month harkens back to traditional weather. Cold, very cold, with chances of snow. Perfect for getting into the holiday mood albeit tricky for holiday travel.

Yardwork took a backseat to the craft room in the basement. So, November 2025 was filled with sewing. Crafts included everything from stockings to soft fabric books for the wee ones. A new quilt was designed and several others near completion. All of the projects will be Christmas presents or items created for local craft fairs.

Productivity in needlework is showing a resurgence in the millennial generation. Hand crafted gifts are rich in meaning for all generations. Hopefully this trend continues. Long ago I made quilts for each couple in my newly wed husband’s family. Maybe a similar homemade gift will be among the 2026 resolutions.

This year all but one of the offspring travelled to Louisville, Kentucky for Thanksgiving. Churchill Downs, best known for hosting the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May, also puts on a fantastic Thanksgiving spread. Turkey, ham and all the traditional sides grace the buffet.

The kids and grandkids present all enjoyed watching the races from the first turn. Spectators can easily access the apron for a close-up view of the track. Coats and gloves were a necessity. Because the weather was cold.

September 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on September 30, 2025September 30, 2025 by Econogal

The beginning of September 2025 was a return from a quick trip to Nashville. So short was our stay that we used the hotel at the airport for two nights. The Hilton Hotel attached to the airport is a beautiful property. Both a pool and restaurant on the rooftop.

While August travel took me to adventurous locations, travel this past month focused on conferences. Both took place in Colorado. The first was in Vail and the second in Golden. The leaves were just beginning to turn. And to be honest, the majority of time was spent indoors.

At the first conference, one of the highlights included an interesting keynote about the economy and the role AI will play. During the question and answer period an attendee asked if AI would pick up the loss of labor due to tighter immigration. The speaker then explained a key principle of labor economics. Since labor is one of the four factors of production, it can have substitutes.

So, some items as well as people are better equipped to swap out. For instance, both turkey and chicken can serve as non-red meat offerings. Thus, turkey and chicken can alternate easily with each other. On the other hand, certain items are harder to switch out. Labor falls into this category. The example I often used involved key players on baseball and basketball teams. A person playing center on the basketball team may not easily switch to the pitcher on the mound. Even if an outstanding athlete. Extending the theory, AI might not be able to replace humans in all jobs. But the technology will replace some people. Those individuals may not be qualified or desire to perform the roles migrants take.

The second conference I attended was just as informative. Once again, technology was highlighted. One of Zonta International’s service projects is called LAAHA. This project provides secure access to health information on the internet. UNICEF is a partner on this program.

A second presentation gave a sobering discussion on how negative the internet can be with respect to isolation and radicalization. In light of the many shootings, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I believe this is a critical conversation. We need to implement solutions before society breaks down completely.

On a positive note, two outstanding young women gave speeches showcasing why they were award winners at the international level. I was fortunate enough to share a table with both. It is easy to lose sight of the good in this world. Young people are our future.

Finally, I enjoyed and was honored by meeting the Zonta International President Elect. Fernanda Gallo-Freschi is a skilled engineer by training and a warm and generous person by nature. I believe she is the perfect person to lead Zontians into the next biennium.

As long time readers noted, September 2025 varied from most months. Very few posts and not much reading occurred. Furthermore, the baby quilt is still not finished and only one of the Christmas stockings is started.

In addition to the travel, I canned produce from the garden. Lots and lots of salsa with a few batches of spaghetti sauces and pickles sprinkled into the mix. Plenty to share.

Finally, last week we said Bon voyage to neighbors of thirty years. They are relocating to the coast of France. I am looking forward to a visit in the future. It feels odd to now be the longest residents on the street.

July 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on July 31, 2025July 31, 2025 by Econogal

The highlight of the garden mid-summer is the peach harvest. This year the crop was moderate in number but large in size. Fresh peaches with meals are the best. But low sugar peach jam and peach pies are also delicious. We were able to share with friends and neighbors.

The lettuce finally went to seed. The loose-leaf varieties were plentiful. However, the star of the lettuce harvest was the head of Great Lakes. The iceberg variety can be challenging to grow in the heat.

Beets and turnips are still maturing, but the first of the crop were harvested at the end of the month. Both were good sized. Unfortunately, the seed potatoes from the first planting failed and so far, the second planting has yielded small spuds.

A mid-July trip to the Jersey Shore was a treat. Travelling with youngsters takes planning and patience but it is so worth it. The journey across time zones affects youngsters and adults in different ways. Babies are hungry when they are hungry. And to a certain extent so are school-aged kids.

Fortunately, we found a great seafood place a block offshore. So good, we took our larger group back there once the rest arrived. In the interim we hit the beach with gusto and wisdom. If you are ever near Monmouth, you can’t go wrong eating at Charley’s Ocean Grill.

For much of my first twenty years of life, I lived near the Atlantic Ocean. Over seven of those years I was in easy walking distance. Looking out on the endless horizon brought peace to my soul. (Living on the High Plains has a similar vibe-just vast open land instead of seas.)

Additionally, the lessons of living near the beach become ingrained. Those growing up on the shore understand the need to respect the tides and the current. Riptides are especially dangerous. As are storms.

Another known thing about growing up along the ocean is the likelihood of sharks will increase if the fishing boats are in close. Such was the case at the Jersey Shore. I explained to the granddaughters that if you could see the people on the boats clearly then you needed to keep one eye looking for sharks. We only saw one and it was out aways. Much to their dismay, no dolphins were sighted. However, the oldest loved the trip so much she informed us on the way home she was moving to New Jersey when she grew up.

Reviews of three of the five books read in July were posted and a fourth review will be released soon. The fifth was very enjoyable and recommended. Yet, it’s hard to review. Secrets of Adulthood: Simple Truths For Our Complex Lives is a non-fiction offering by Gretchin Rubin. The book of aphorisms reminds me of various wise sayings offered by my parents and grandparents as I was growing up. Short of quoting most of the aphorisms there was not enough to create a post. So, I suggest you find a copy at your local library or bookstore. It took me just over an hour to read cover to cover.

June 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on June 30, 2025June 30, 2025 by Econogal

Using a mechanical cherry pitter speeds the process.

The cherry crop was a few days behind schedule but yielded a batch of jam and a batch of jelly in addition to enough for several pies. The Big Garden continues to produce and we enjoy the bounty daily. Fresh green salads accompany dinner most nights. The second planting of potatoes are thriving and the first planting is getting very close to harvest. Green tomatoes pepper the side garden plants while the back garden boxes and The Big Garden tomatoes are full of blooms. Planting of seeds and onion sets continues, ensuring a staggered harvest.

Economic indicators still create a mixed picture. Stocks prices are at all-time highs; the Misery Index is within normal limits at 6.55% and the new market basket prices vary. Some products dropped in price while others increased. Travel in June 2025 anecdotally shows an increase in airport traffic even though newscasts indicate fewer travelers. Maybe I’m just hitting the hot spots on my trips.

Product	March 2025 Price	June 2025 Price
1 Gal. Whole Milk	$3.69	$5.99
1 LB. Bananas	$0.65	$0.54
1 Can Cr. Style Corn	$1.99	$1.99
Dozen Eggs	$6.49	$6.99
1 Dunkin' Donut	$1.79	$1.79
1 Gal. Reg Unl. Gas	$2.89	$2.97
Doz Reg. Mouth Kerr Lids	$4.99	$3.97
Scott's Step Fertilizer	$104.00	$97.00
Hamilton Beach 4-slice Toaster	$48.95	$54.49
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook	$624.99	$749.99
GE 2 Cu.Ft. Microwave	$239.00	$199.00
Misery Index	7	6.55

Three books were reviewed in June. Another book will have its’ review later this week. The lone non-fiction entry, The Ageless Brain, took most of a week to read. The other two, Beach House Rules and the cozy murder mystery Bridal Shower Murder are enjoyable quick summer reads.

Plenty of kid books were read to my grandsons on their visit to the High Plains. A classic from 1969, Babar’s Moon Trip by Laurent De Brunhoff was the hand’s down favorite. The pop-up book was read at least a dozen times to the oldest child. At almost three, he was allowed to gently pull on the tabs. Truly, the infant may not have absorbed much, but it is never too early to listen.

May 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on May 31, 2025May 31, 2025 by Econogal

Both April and May 2025 were full of travel and events. Books were read and some were reviewed. Plenty of hours were logged in both the garden and the quilt room. The only thing lacking was regular writing.

Two new babies were born into the family twenty days apart. One of each gender, identical in length and only an ounce apart in weight. Since the cousins live but five miles apart it will be interesting to see if they are misidentified as twins. I look forward to holding them simultaneously.

I try to keep up and acknowledge the emails that come into the blog. Unfortunately, the majority want me to let them publish what they write thereby skipping the cost of a website. Others want me to write on their topic of choice. The vast majority are literary agents doing the job of promoting a client’s book.

My favorite correspondence is from writers themselves. Some write in the comments, others reference my blog on their websites and still others send private notes. This month I learned Ken Steele was recognized by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries in May 2025 with an award for The Promise of Unbroken Straw. Kudos to Ken, I am still gifting his book to various individuals in my circle. I highly recommend it.

Much time is spent in the garden at this time of year. I have a row of potatoes and a row of tomatoes in the Big Garden. Green onions are interplanted with the tomatoes and basil with the potatoes. I also have a row of leafy plants. Multiple types of lettuce and broccoli are in this row with more green onions and some rather anemic artichokes.

The final row includes hot peppers, beets, carrots and peas. My early starts of peanuts did not make it. However, I threw some peanut seeds into this fourth row as well and was quite pleased to see a couple of plants pop through this week. No doubt the inch of rain accompanied by warm, seasonal temperatures helped the garden along.

But first, I need to attend to my health. Something is not quite right with my heart. Fortunately, I have an appointment with a specialist at UC Health in Denver next week. Those of us in small rural towns scattered throughout this country travel out of town when medical issues are complex. Hopefully the diagnoses will be quick and the remedy straightforward. In the meantime, I plan to live as stress-free as possible. And I do plan to keep all of you up to date. Happy June to all.

March 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on March 31, 2025March 31, 2025 by Econogal

March 2025 contained a variety of weather from balmy to frigid. Moisture was on the light side, but the last few days look promising for April showers. Travel, gardening and quilting took up quite a bit of time. Books were read and reviewed. All in all, it was a productive month.

On the economic front, tariffs are eminent, and the outcome is uncertain. Naturally this translates into an unsettled market. Young stock market participants need not panic but I am sure retirees and fixed income individuals are as jittery as the stock exchanges. I have added a New Market Basket to track how the coming tariffs will impact prices. The Misery Index fell slightly to 6.9%. This is opposite of what I expect going forward.

Politics in the United States continues to be acrimonious. Our united front after 9/11 is all but gone. There is plenty of blame to go around and none of it is helpful. Personally, I only know of a few people planning to locate outside of the country. But others may be entertaining the thought of moving abroad. The parallels to the 1930s and 1940s have the elderly population shaking their heads.

March is a good time to start seeds. So, the cool-weather crops were started in early March 2025 while the tomatoes were planted toward the end of the month. Lettuce, kale, spinach and Swiss chard make up most of the plants. Six different tomato varieties were planted. The Genuine Heirloom Marriage Hybrid tomatoes took longer to emerge, and the germination rate was about half. But the seeds were from 2023. Viability decreases over time.

Additionally, repairs were made to the raised rows in the Big Garden. Early March brought tropical storm and even Cat. One winds to the Great Plains. Dust storms still exist in this part of the country in the early spring. Fortunately, by the end of the month the wheat stands turned green and helped mitigate the dirt-filled air. Hopefully, April will bring rain.

February 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on February 28, 2025February 28, 2025 by Econogal

Early in the month before the bitter cold arrived a few seeds were planted in the warmest, sunniest spot in the garden. In the past I have had luck planting before a light snow. So, the predicted cold front was not a concern.

However, a week after the gentle blanket protected the seeds, a second front stormed in. Thirty-mile an hour winds brought in a heavier snow and below freezing temperatures for a solid week. Furthermore, on two nights the temperature dropped below zero (Fahrenheit.) The worst of the weather was a solid week without sunshine. February 2025 proved to be colder than past February’s.

I doubt much will sprout from those early seeds. And since the end of the month is here and no crocuses have sprung through the ground, I will wait before planting any more seeds outside.

The quilt I am working on is the most difficult one I have ever attempted. Lots of sewing followed by small bits of “un-sewing.” The process is complex. Twenty strips sewn together followed by crosscut strips. Those strips are taken apart and sewn in alternating combinations. The colors range from off white to teals and finish in blues so dark they almost look black. There is enough completed that it is easy to see the finished project will be stunning.

Thus, writing took a bit of a back seat.

My 40^th wedding anniversary was this past week, and we celebrated by going to the only restaurant in town that features steaks. Options are limited in a town of 7500. Furthermore, as long-time readers know, we live in the biggest town in a one-hundred-mile radius. Choices are a plethora of fast-food restaurants serving the highway travelers and a smattering of Mom-and-Pop places. No Big Box chains here.

We look forward to a family celebration in the near future with all of our kids. And a little warmer weather would be nice too.

January 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on January 31, 2025January 31, 2025 by Econogal

My part of the world experienced cold and snow in January 2025. But that is normal for the High Plains. The surprising weather is the snow and cold in the south which many of my family members experienced. While snow is not unheard of in places like Houston and the beaches of northern Florida, this month’s amounts rival those seen here on the plains.

Fortunately, the end of the month and the forecast for February paint a different picture. This will alter my activities. Much of January was spent indoors either quilting, reading or researching.

I bundled up on the warmer afternoons for a walk around the neighborhood, but there was no action in the garden. So, the pruning of the grape vines is still on the list of winter garden chores. New varieties of seeds were ordered after browsing seed catalogues and this was the only garden-related accomplishment.

Currently I am piecing a king size quilt with almost 3300 pieces. The pattern is from More Twist-and-Turn Bargello Quilts reviewed here. The baby quilt made in this style was quite easy. However, the size and pattern of the current one is challenging. Once the quilt top is pieced, I will share a photo. My goal is to finish the piecing by the end of February.

Quilt fabric navy blue background with large floral motif in pastels-pink, blue, yellow and green. — Fabric for both baby quilts.

Two more quilts are planned for this spring. Both are baby quilts for cousins to be. Pattern books have been part of the reading with nothing picked out yet, except for one of the fabrics. Since the two cousins are expected just weeks apart and their respective parents live about five miles apart, I have picked one key fabric to use in both quilts. But the coordinating fabrics for each will reflect the different genders. I am a bit of a traditionalist in that sense.

The very cold weather in January 2025 yielded much reading. In addition to Slow Dance and The Grey Wolf, the latest Janet Evanovich-Stephanie Plum book was greatly enjoyed. Additionally, After Sundown, The Next Mrs. Parrish and Identity Unknown have been read. Look for the reviews throughout February.

In addition to reading novels, I spent time in January 2025 reading family history including original documents written by family members. Of particular interest was two months of a diary from 1922 detailing passage from Kobe, Japan to the East Coast of the United States. Stops included two of the Hawaiian Islands, San Francisco, the Panama Canal and Cuba. The diary stopped at the canal but photos show pictures of Cuba. A search for more of the diary will be made.

Much of what I read is material saved at the last moment when emptying out my father’s house after his unexpected death. My youngest made room for a box labeled with a great-uncle’s name. Since he had no offspring, the historical artifacts made their way to the historian in the family-my dad.

Among things saved from my youngest’s insistence that I go through all photos was a booklet of drawings made by the mother-in-law of the diary keeper. Her artwork is exquisite, and I have treasured her oil paintings since I was a child. The scrapbook spurred a thought about writing a biography. Hence the research.

Much was accomplished in January even though I watched more television than usual. In addition to the funeral service for Former President Carter I watched the inauguration. President Trump became the second president to hold office a non-consecutive term. The first was Grover Cleveland.

I think it is important to have a smooth transition of power between the opposing parties. This distinguishes the United State of America from countries with other forms of government. The balance of power between Congress, the Supreme Court, and the administration led by the President is key. My hope is that every leader in Washington, D.C. remembers this importance.

Wishing you a productive month in February.

December 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on December 30, 2024December 30, 2024 by Econogal

Not many posts uploaded on Econogal.com this December 2024. Yet it was a very productive and enjoyable month. Gifts were completed or bought and then wrapped and given. Time was spent with young and old, even older than me.

Football rivaled classic Christmas movies on the television and entertaining filled the days and evenings. Gingerbread house construction, hiking in the Colorado mountains, and buying a new car kept the activities rolling. Plus, time to read. In addition to reviewing The Unwedding and The Promise of Unbroken Straw, I enjoyed the latest Janet Evanovich and Lorena McCartney books. Both offer the chance to lose myself in imaginary places with favorite characters for a few hours.

The usual dishes were made throughout December 2024. Candy cane cheesecake and fudge, chili and cornbread, and all the fixin’s for Christmas Dinner. We hosted a smaller crowd than usual this year. But older cousins could reminisce about bygone days and younger cousins played and played.

The star dessert was a box mix of lemon cake with a raspberry filling and drizzled dark chocolate for the topping. I need to make it more often. For those of you who can whip things up without detailed instructions:

One cake made from a box of lemon cake mix

One jar of Smucker’s Red Raspberry Jelly, heated then spread between layers

½ cup Hershey’s Dark Cocoa Powder, ½ cup sugar or powdered sugar, cream or half and half- mix to a pourable consistency

If you have left-over jelly, spread it on top either above or below the chocolate

After much research, I decided to swap my Subaru Outback for an updated version. My understanding is the model will have a new look next year. Because I am partial to the old look and the 2020 vehicle had been driven all over the country, I decided to buy a new one.

Over the years, I have bought vehicles during the Christmas car sale season. Maybe advertising works. December 2024 was the busiest of the three times. The showroom was packed and there was a wait-time for the test drive. It will be interesting to see if the economic data released next month matches my experience.

November 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on November 30, 2024November 30, 2024 by Econogal

Life is returning to normal for me and November 2024 is a significant part of that. A year of positive surprises makes up for the multi-year, “other shoe is about to drop” feeling that has influenced my life since 2019. Perhaps it is the calm after a bitter election campaign. I give credit to the Democrats for that.

Perhaps the reasoning is closer to home. We are expecting two new grandchildren (at least) to arrive in 2025. The circle of life continues, and the spirit is uplifting.

My one trip this month was to a favorite location, Lexington, Kentucky. The weather was quite warm in early November (in contrast to the snow the television showed there on this last day of the month.) Short sleeves felt a bit strange with the beautiful foliage. Babies have been weaned from their mothers, and the paddocks no longer have little ones frolicking around the mares. Now, horses are grouped by age or perhaps by breeding status. Warm sun rays filtered through the colorful leaves.

October 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on October 31, 2024October 31, 2024 by Econogal

This month has been a beautiful one from a weather standpoint with the first freeze this morning. Just in time to put the frost on the pumpkins for the Trick-or-Treaters. In our small town civic minded organizations hand out candy early in the evening. Then kids wander around the neighborhoods.

The garden has been put to bed with the last of the roses tightly packed into a vase on the kitchen table. One pepper plant now resides in the basement under the grow lights. The benefit of having part of the garden in patio pots.

Books are piled up on bedside tables with yet another small quilt in the living room, keeping hands busy while watching television. It feels like the calm before the storm.

All through October 2024 I expected to see candidate signs pop-up across town. However, signs have been few and far between. One could wish the same could be said for the political advertisements on radio and T.V. This lack of identification with a candidate is very interesting to me. Especially in a town that tends to have close to 90% of the population lean toward the same political organization.

Twice during the month, I drove through town looking for yard signs. Less than two dozen for the main party and only two for the minority party. It will be interesting to see how the voters turn out.

Regardless of your political beliefs, I hope you vote on election day-it is just around the corner.

September 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on September 30, 2024September 30, 2024 by Econogal

The September 2024 calendar was filled with travelling, canning, reading and writing. Warm daytime temperatures and cool nights make this one of my favorite months. Add in the beauty of the turning leaves and the ripening of vine fruits and you have just about everything one could ask for.

Unfortunately for those not living on the High Plains and within driving distance of the Rockies, the weather may not have been as pleasant. Plus, my heart goes out to those residing in the Southeast part of the country. Hurricane season is not to be taken lightly.

The mountains of Central Colorado are at peak fall color. So, I tagged along on a business trip to Vail Valley. In addition to Vail, I spent time in Silverthorne with a dear friend. We had a delicious lunch at Enza’s Delicatessen and Market, sitting outside along the creek.

Dinner in Vail the first night was also along a creek-Gore Creek at Mountain Standard. The restaurant hosts a hearty menu of various meats. We try to eat here every time we are in Vail.

The second night we wandered through the village for an hour before finding a pizza place. Pazzo’s Pizza had the Thursday Night football game on. Now that these games are streamed for pay, it was nice to find a spot with a subscription. On top of that, our pizza earned Pazzo’s a rank among the top in pizzeria’s west of the Mississippi.

Social media continues to baffle me. Searching for first-hand accounts of Hurricane Helene yields bitter political discourse. Also, there are a variety of conspiracy theories regarding the weather. No common sense and very little compassion and understanding.

Fortunately, in-person conversations continue to uplift. One recent encounter at a C-Store on an interstate provided much joy. Little Daisy Mae in her side car is a service dog with excellent training and great behavior. Her owner was tickled with recent awards at a car show in Goodland, Kansas. Our conversation ended because vehicles were waiting for their turn at the pump. I need more of this in my life! Real people and real experiences.

August 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on August 31, 2024August 31, 2024 by Econogal

Some months race through and others, like August 2024 linger, allowing one to savor the end of summer. So many hot days punctured by thunderstorms giving respite from the sizzle. County fairs, all day canning sessions, and refinishing furniture wound through the month. And the highlights, relatively cool days in Castle Rock, Colorado watching the BMW Championship professional golf tournament and attendance at a beautiful wedding just down the interstate at the beautiful Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs.

Some great reading, visiting with friends and family and finishing a baby quilt all added to a sense of non-stress summer accomplishments. One could wish all months were like August 2024. Certainly, it was a month of productivity. But there was more. Perhaps, it was a concerted effort to unplug from national politics. Two full months remain before the election. Plenty of time to study candidates and ballot issues.

Or maybe because August 2024 allowed me to see three of my four offspring. Family is important. No matter the reason, the past month was quite enjoyable.

Summers during my childhood were filled with ocean swims, biking up and down the Daytona Beach peninsula and hours of reading every day. Now, I have many other activities to fit in as well and of course no beach a block away. The time spent in Castle Rock and Colorado Springs offers a replacement for the Atlantic. I could see myself living full time in the Rockies—someday. Hiking and biking and the smell of pines after a rain connect me to the earth as much as salty breezes and cries of seagulls.

Book reviews flow best just after finishing the last chapter. However, sometimes the final page comes just after midnight. This is why my review of The Women has not posted. I am struggling to express the depth of Kristen Hannah’s writing on a topic so close to my heart. The 1970s was not a good time to be an Army Brat.

August 2024 outshines last year in the garden. While the tomatoes are not a banner crop, they are a good amount. Cantaloupe are sweet and prolific as are jalapeños. The last week of the month the serrano pepper bush finally flowered, so barring an early freeze, September will offer even more peppers. Green beans are flowering as well. Plus, the two slips of sweet potatoes are thriving.

Cucumbers are eaten fresh and pickled. And onions are still abundant. I have let some of the salad greens go to seed and will begin collecting that seed soon for next year’s use. I encourage everyone to grow at least a small garden. Even apartments can have a few pots of herbs, lettuces or perhaps green onions.

July 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on July 30, 2024July 30, 2024 by Econogal

Here in the United States of America, national politics is front and center. First, the assassination attempt on former president and current candidate Donald Trump was at the forefront of the news. Then, President Biden’s exit from the race after a disastrous debate and much lobbying by fellow politicians. I will not presume to announce his replacement since the Democratic Convention is in just a few weeks.

I will say that the two-party system has problems that need fixing. Furthermore, I trust in the vote. Those who are already claiming foul before Election Day even arrives need to read Nancy Coco’s Give Fudge a Chance just to see how silly they sound. November will be interesting, and I think the race is wide open. And whoever wins, I will respect the office of the president.

So far, harvest from the July 2024 Garden is much improved over July 2023. Tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, cantaloupe, onions and peppers are thriving. Both tomatoes and cucumbers have been processed as well as enjoyed fresh. This year’s salsa will not need any supplementary produce from the farmer’s market.

Unfortunately, during the last few days of July 2024, both grasshoppers and squash bugs have made their presence known. So, the battle between gardener and pests begins. Perhaps the birds will come to the rescue once again.

June 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on June 30, 2024June 30, 2024 by Econogal

While June 2024 yielded many positives such as a bumper crop of cherries, the overwhelming takeaway was one of early summer heat. Multiple days of triple digit temperatures. Quite unpleasant when coupled with winds from the southwest, near or above 20 m.p.h. and the heart (and heat) of the summer is still to come. I sure hope we don’t break the all-time high this year.

Naturally, the heat means the salad greens in the garden are bolting. A few heads of lettuce will be left alone in order to produce seed. Then, the saved seed will be collected and saved for next year’s planting. I have great success with saved seeds of salad greens.

The tomatoes are producing many fruits, and the cucumbers are loaded with flowers. Melons are beginning to form. However, the garden is not receiving much rain, so the drip lines are hard at work. And the star of the June 2024 Garden, is the old cherry tree. A bumper crop from the nearly thirty-year old tree was unexpected. The late winter snows provided the perfect amount of moisture.

Weekend trips to Wyoming and the mountains of Colorado provided relief from the heat. Wyoming is a sparsely populated state and has much to offer. It will be interesting to see if the fairly recent discovery of the rare earth minerals needed to make computer chips changes the demographics.

I am torn about the discovery. It is good to not depend on outside sources for these important manufacturing materials. But the mining process is usually in the form of strip mining. Reclamation of the land after mining is difficult. Our reliance on computers is definitely a two-edged sword.

Back in 2016, Chuck Lorre, one of the brains behind the Big Bang Theory posted one two syllable word on a “vanity” card following the national election. A simple “Uh-Oh.” I wonder what he would post after the recent debate between the current and former Presidents. I have faith in a system that has lasted almost 250 years and yet this election cycle wants to test that faith once again. So, I will continue to read, watch and educate myself about the political issues at hand. And I will vote in November.

May 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on May 31, 2024May 30, 2024 by Econogal

May is one of my favorite months here on the High Plains of the United States and May 2024 is par for the course. We often joke that we are experiencing Hawaii weather. Not too hot and not too cold with afternoon rain showers sprinkled in.

Outdoor chores are once again at the forefront of the schedule. Quilting takes a backseat to pulling weeds, planting annuals and watching the veggies’ flower. Reading is often done on the back porch. And travel is somewhat limited because one loves the weather at home.

Sophie the cat is restricted on how much time she spends outdoors. This is prime nesting for the birds both permanent and passing through. Birders find so many varieties to spot in this migration corridor. The hummingbirds return for a few weeks along with the robins and finches. Meanwhile, the grackles and turkeys tolerate the invaders.

Various types of bees are pollinating perennials, annuals and weeds-oops I mean wildflowers. A few giant bumblebees but mostly small honeybees’ flit around the garden. They are joined by a variety of butterflies, yellow, orange and white. The milkweed will bloom soon, so I hope to see monarchs in the mix. Fortunately, the miller moths have not been bad this year.

We just added one tree this year. Family members gifted me a linden tree as a remembrance to my father. Other plantings include perennials such as Blue Mist Spirea (Caryopteris x clandonensis), Sunset Glow Penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius) and the Daylilly Happy Returns. And plenty of annuals in planters as well as here and there in the beds.

The vegetables planted in late April are thriving. As I discussed in the April 2024 Wrap-Up, I look to my oak tree to know when to plant. Once again, the old bur oak knows when the winter weather is gone. Much more reliable than a calendar!

Each tomato plant has blossoms. As do the melons and cucumbers. And even the potato plants. Perhaps harvest will begin by the Fourth of July. Meanwhile, plenty of fruit is on the cherry trees. I forecast both pies and jam for this year’s harvest.

May 2024 harvest included lettuces, onions and herbs. This is about normal. Lacking a greenhouse, I cannot speed up the harvest any more than I have.

My one disappointment is a lack of peony blooms this year. I am not sure why. So, I will research possibilities and try to take action this fall.

April 2024 Wrap-Up

Posted on April 30, 2024April 30, 2024 by Econogal

The High Plains is notorious for late freezes and April 2024 was ushered in with temperatures in the teens. But my Bur Oak has leafed out. In almost 30 years, this tree popping forth new leaves means spring is here. And frost is banished for the summer. Perhaps this changing climate will trick both me and the oak, however I am ready to gamble. And once before the oak did leaf out in April.

This past weekend I planted my tomatoes and peppers, as well as cantaloupe and many flowers and herbs. Temperatures range from mid-forties to low sixties as lows for the next ten days. So, after a month of harvesting asparagus, I am turning the calendar on the vegetable garden. Most all the future spears will be left to grow into fern bearing stalks and the bulk of the harvest will be romaine lettuce and the early herbs such as chives and parsley. And don’t forget the mint.

A nice patch of mint at the far end of Row 1 in the Big Garden is ready to mash into the bottom of refreshing mint juleps. Currently the mint is competing with some prickly pear cactus to anchor the base of the garden. Both will be kept in check as spread can take over the rows.

Monsoon Rains for The High Plains

New Quilt

In The Library in August 2026

Mixed Fruit Jelly in August 2026

Looking Forward

Share this:

Like this:

Hip Hip Hooray 250 Years!

July 2026 In the Library

Hot and Dry

Travel to Canada in July 2026

Ending July 2026

Share this:

Like this:

Too Much to Do

Catching up in the Garden

Reading in June 2026

More Catching Up To Do

Looking Forward

Share this:

Like this:

Goodbye May

Houston, Texas

May 2026 In The Garden

Second 2026 Surgery

May 2026 In the Library

Looking Forward to June Travel

Share this:

Like this:

Spring is Here

Travel to Kentucky in April 2026

In the Garden

April 2026 In the Library

Final Thoughts

Share this:

Like this:

No Winners

Reading during March 2026

Early Spring in the Garden

March 2026 Quilting

Looking Forward

Share this:

Like this:

Better Late than Never

Quilting Through the Winter Cold

January 2026 In the Library

Update on my Heart

Share this:

Like this:

The Month That Was-December 2025

December 2025 In the Library

New Year’s Resolutions

Flip House

View from kitchen into family room.

View from kitchen into dining room.

Primary Bathroom

Primary Shower

Guest Bathroom

Walk-in Pantry

Fireplace Mantel

Share this:

Like this:

Changing Seasons

Return to the Craft Room in November 2025

Baking in November 2025

Destination Thanksgiving

Importance of Family

Share this:

Like this:

Travel for Fun, Travel for Learning

Conference Travel in September 2025

Zonta International District Conference

September 2025 Varied from the Norm

Share this:

Like this:

A Busy Month

4th of July 2025

July 2025 In the Garden

Jersey Shore Journey

Growing Up at the Beach