The last week has been dreary with constant rain here in The Valley. I've just stayed close to home. I can remember the days when it didn't matter if it rained or not, I still had to get out in it. But now, I can be selective as to what I do and when I do it.

I was here on the computer when, all of a sudden, I heard a crash on top of the house. I looked out and a limb had fallen onto the roof. And, it is going to stay there until things dry up a bit. I have a ladder just for this sort of mishap so I am prepared. When you live in the woods with a lot of big trees around you there are some things you need. A ladder, rake, and leaf blower. I have to get on top of the house 3 or 4 times a year to remove the pine needles and leaves that accumulate there. And it's always a big pile to take out by the road for removal. The city comes by once a week and will pick up anything I place there.

This is a small town, with a little over 3,000 residents, and it's quiet. The city services seem to be able to keep up with things. They pick up the trash every Wednesday without fail. The services are a little strange. I am on county water but city electric.