We are blessed with a beautiful autumn. The days are sunny and crisp. Looks like I may get out in the camper for the weekend.

Often, Tango and I arise early, while the sky is still dark, and I slowly prepare for a day of teaching. Several times recently I have subbed in special ed classrooms. What a joy, what a new experience. Kind of making this whole subbing experience extremely worthwhile.

The only downside to teaching: I have an endless runny nose and sniffles. I vaguely remember the same syndrome when Kerry was in school–always a germ floating back and forth between home and school. Anyway, I don’t feel awful, just blowing my nose and sneezing often.

I have settled into my house sitting situation and am comfortable. It is a classic 70s suburban neighborhood, if a town of 4000 can truly have a suburban area!  If I don’t count the finished basement, the house is about half the size of the parsonage. What a relief. When I retire I want a tiny house and even fewer possessions than I have now. I am serious about continuing to downsize.

I had to do some pricey repairs on my PT Cruiser–timing belt, head gasket and more. I checked out the possibility of trading in both the PT and the van for ONE vehicle that will pull the popup. However the dealer offered only $2000 for BOTH of my vehicles. So, the plan is to keep both and drive them another year or so before trading in.

My big news: while awaiting my next call I have nearly completed a new blog. It is focused on climate change and other environmental news. The new blog makes it easy for readers to stay informed about environmental issues, learn how to make lifestyle changes and shop quickly and easily for eco-friendly things. I am installing an Amazon “store” that features eco-friendly items and gifts. I pick all the items to put in the store, and even though it looks like the store is on my site, you would still be buying directly through Amazon. As before, I only receive a small commission. However, I am dedicated to eco-friendly buying and will donate a portion of the proceeds to charity. It is exciting, and I hope to launch in a week or so. You can find wonderful gifts for everyone on your Christmas shopping list, even babies. I don’t expect to get rich, although a few proceeds would be helpful! I have had the web domain for about a year..I felt a spiritual nudge telling me to get this up and running, now I finally have enough time. Will let you know soon where to find my new site.

I will still blog here about my adventures. Coming soon: fall camping, travel to Denver to meet my son’s new girlfriend, travel to a church for a live interview (last step in process), and the big move to a new church/town/state. Of course, winter looms and we will see if Farmer’s Almanac’s predictions about a tough winter come true. Everyday is an adventure in some way or another.