The logs on the back porch are dwindling down.  We had planned to burn most of them in the next couple of weeks so when our weather does show signs of spring, we won't be carrying a full load back down the steps to the wood pile.  Then last weekend our forecast became doom and gloom with predictions of an icy mix and dangerous conditions, starting Sunday night and continuing all day Monday.  There was a chance of  trees down and  power outages.  We did the normal shopping for impending disasters by purchasing toilet paper, bread, and milk, and chocolate and wine.  Back at the ranch we filled the wheel barrow three times and carried logs up to the back porch, filling the holder again.  I went through my hearty winter soup recipes and other comfort foods preparing to be house-bound for a few days.  Each time we watched TWC or checked our weather apps, the forecast changed.  Luckily, the storm brought rain to our area and the temperature stayed above freezing.  The storm system missed us.  Now we have a back porch full of firewood.  I suppose there's still a possibility we could get another storm.  So far the ten-day forecast is for mild temperatures in the 50's and 60's. Cliff suggested we concoct a pulley system for bringing firewood up when needed and down when the season is over. 

Our friends, Kathy and Dutch, have been away for a week so we've been visiting Moe late in the afternoon to feed him his tuna and visit with him.

 Keeping a cat company is not like visiting a dog.  A dog will wag its whole body, pant, and act like it's thrilled that you stopped by.  Moe talks in one-word sentences and sits by his place mat waiting for the tuna dish.  Sometimes he graces us with his presence allowing the long stroke from the nape of the neck up to the tip of his soft fluffy tail.  When he's had enough attention and conversation, mostly on our part, he returns to his place mat for his next treat.  We tell Moe we're leaving.  Cliff squirts some whipped cream on a clean dish for Moe and a glob on his hand for himself.

My rheumatologist appointment was last Thursday.  I love this new doctor.  He's so into his patients, listening to and assessing me as a whole person, not just asking questions pertaining to my RA symptoms.  I wanted Cliff to meet him so he sat in for this visit.  The most recent lab results showed all blood work in a normal range.  I've been over a year with normal results so my rheumatoid arthritis is in remission.  It's been an interesting journey paying attention to what foods to avoid and what foods to include in my eating, but definitely worth it.