Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Dear Friends, Readers, and Followers...

Welcome to my latest personal Blog thread.  This will be my continuing story of my life endeavors. 

I relocated here in January of 2017 to small town Alaska life from Eastern Montana where I was born,
and I was raised on my parents cattle ranch.  I loved the rural life, land, horses, life values, etc.

I own and operate my woman-own business... I am a CPA and have a tax and financial planning
business that serves private and business clients.

I started HRT in March of 2015, went full time in December of 2016.  I moved here immediately
after going full-time and quitting my executive accounting job at a mid-size company.

I enjoy the life that I now have... I have a sweetheart... she is a Dental Hygeienist at a local
Dentist office here.  I first met her when I had an appointment with my new local Dentist in April of 2018.
I will often refer to her as my Tooth-Fairy.

Next door to my office is a local coffee shop that in this small town is the gossip center and de-facto
meeting and greeting, and social gathering place for many of the townspeople. 
With the acceptance and support  of my tooth-fairy and the owner of the Coffee Shop, and even though
I arrived here as a full-time, 100% passing woman, that is where I officially came out to everyone. 
I did not want any gossip about the new blue-eyed blonde lady that just arrived.... and
now there were no secrets or stealth past to hide.  No mental burdens to load me down.

When I first moved here, I had quite a time sorting out my emotions as I was the Hunted Prey target of
most of the single men here, of which there are many, mostly sportsmen, hunters, loggers, etc.  I had
gone through the gauntlet of dealing with both male and female suitors that were vying for my attention.
I went on quite a few nervous dates until I finally met my tooth-fairy.

I live in a home and on a property about 2 miles from town.  In the winter months, we typically have snow,
ice, and bitter cold temperatures... 
        TODAY:   This morning January 02, 2023 I woke up to minus -33 degrees(f) [-36 deg C]

Winter solstice was a little over a week ago on December 21st....  shortest days and longest nights.
                Sunrise: 10:26am
                Sunset:  2:46pm

So, this is the beginning of my latest Blog here on the Forum.
I will be adding more comments and thoughts .... and pictures as I continue submit postings.

As always... please feel free to post here with your comments and thoughts... nothing reasonable
is off-topic.  Consider my Blog thread to be a kind of community gathering place where we can
meet, greet, exchange comments and thoughts, and have conversations.

I will be certainly posting more when I have time...

Many HUGS, my best wishes to you, and Thank You for reading my Blog.
Danielle northernstargirl@susans.org


NOTE: While I have many, many friends here on the Forum... below are the members that have posted on my Blog thread since January 02, 2024 when I was able to login again after the unfortunate New Year's Day site crash.

@Oldandcreaky @Myranda @Lori Dee  @Gina P @davina61 @Sarah B  @Mandy Spencer  @ChrissyRyan  @Paulie  @Kay226
@Jessica_K  @Mariah  @REM.1126  @Jenn104  @imallie  @EllenW  @BlueJaye  @Emma1017  @Jessica_Rose  @KathyLauren
@Courtney G  @Donica  @LauraE  @TXSara  @Alice  @Moonflower  @JudiBlueEyes  @CaelaNotKayla

For our returning members.... Welcome back after the site's CRASH
I know first hand how disappointing to see that much what we had shared about our journeys and
about our life trials and tribulations here on the Forum are lost....
            However
I just did a quick internet WEB search for some of my past activity I found text, excerpts from
postings and many photos that I had posted here on the Forum and on other sites.

I am eagerly looking to read your new postings around the Forum with your thoughts and comments.

Warmest Regards,
Danielle

Good morning, Danielle! It's good to see you blogging again.

@Oldandcreaky
Dear Oldandcreaky
I am glad to see that you made it back "home" here to the Forum.

Well, it appears that all of us on the Forum got a "reset button" ...   
Many of us have lost quite a bit of our pesonal threads, private messages
and photos.....   but with some time we can get back to even a better
place than we were....   think positive.

Thank you for coming to my newest and latest Blog thread.... 
I will be eagerly looking for you future postings around
our "new" Forum.

If you ever have any questions about the Forum, please feel
free to contact me.
Many HUGS .... and WELCOME BACK
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Well, the forum looks different and lots of info is lost, but Danielle is as sweet as ever and hooray for that!

Stay warm Danielle!! Down here in Cascadia we're in our usual winter pattern of rain, rain, grey, rain and just when you get tired of it being gray all the time- we have more rain!

I almost prefer our below freezing days.... then we get crazy bright blue clear skies!

Hugs!!

Caela

Hello Danielle.  Wishing you well in the new year!

I missed all of you. It is good to see you back here Danielle.

I don't really like the new format.  But, maybe it can be rebuilt like it was?  Meanwhile, how long will I have to verify myself for each post?  The math isn't hard, but seeing the letters is. 

Thank you, Danielle, for launching a new blog while this website is being reborn. I always appreciate you being here as you inspire my sweetheart and me. Thank you for your stories, which help us to believe in possibilities.

Thursday, about 6:00pm Alaska time ....  Hello everyone... I hope that you had a good day today. 

I am getting excited that the rest of the Forum Staff and I are finally getting
things fixed up and in order on the Forum.  It is a work in progress but we are
getting there one piece at a time.

Good news, I finally have all of my current and past Blog thread links fixed. 
They can be found in the Signature Line at the end of any message that I post.
For newer members that are not familiar with my life journey here on the Forum
please take a little time to read my postings... I am always happy to reply to
any questions that you might have.

Another typical COLD winter day here ...
    ....right now the temperature is minus -24 degrees(f) [-31 deg C]

The furnace at the building that my office is in was acting up today and the
only warm and cozy place in the building was at the next door coffee shop so
I took my laptop with me and did much of my work and client meetings there.

The daylight hours are getting longer now, and the nights are getting shorter...
    less than 4 hours of sun in the sky and a little over 18 hours night time.

I left my home to go to work this morning just after 6:30am and I didn't get home
until about 15 minutes ago....  a 12 hour work day... that is how it goes
when I own and operate my own business.

Thank you for coming to and taking the time to read my Blog thread ramblings.
You are always very welcome to post any of your comment and thoughts here, even
off-topic is OK  (within reason of course !!!)

HUGS, and my best wishes to you.
Danielle

Here in New Jersey we are having our first snow storm in 2 years and at a freezing +29deg. I feel like such a wuss after reading -24. Your one tough chick Danielle.
Hugs Gina

Danielle,

Nice to see a new blog thread for you here. I look forward to reading about your adventures.

Alice

I am closing my office now and going to dinner at my Tooth-Fairy sweetie's home.... 
bitter cold here today    minus -25deg (f) and snowing...  :) :icon_flower: :icon_love:

It is a COLD night tonight:

         (https://i.imgur.com/mGHii3h.jpg)

Note:   The F and C scales come together at (minus) -40 degrees
..... -40 deg(f) is exactly the same cold temperature of -40 deg (C)

HUGS, Danielle

Gosh, that's cold.

And there I was staying in cos its +4C. Stay safe dear and warm

When it's that cold, use the Kelvin scale. -40F becomes 233K, which doesn't sound cold at all.

I know you're used to low temperatures and have appropriate clothing, but that's just too cold for me!

Love always -- Jess

Dang.  We're supposed to hit the low teens on Monday, and everybody is freaking out over here LOL.

It's all about what you're used to, I guess!

~Sara

That's BRRR for sure. You must be far north Alaska. You could have picked a slightly warmer city lol

Hugs
Jessica xxx

My daffodils have started growing here in NJ. They think spring is here. -40 is crazy. I don't know how you handle that.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 12, 2024, 08:13:19 PMIt is a COLD night tonight:

        (https://i.imgur.com/mGHii3h.jpg)

Note:   The F and C scales come together at (minus) -40 degrees
..... -40 deg(f) is exactly the same cold temperature of -40 deg (C)

HUGS, Danielle

I'm glad I live in SoCal, where +40F is too cold for me  ;)

Quote from: Donica on January 13, 2024, 03:41:31 PMI'm glad I live in SoCal, where +40F is too cold for me  ;)

Could not agree more.

Ellen

Good Thursday morning everyone....
It will be a busy day today at my office when I get there... 
it is just after 7:15am here and I am getting ready to go to work. 

Here it is now minus -26 degs(f)  ...
it is not snowing now but we have several feet on the ground
left over from previous recent snow storms...

QUESTION: What are my friends, readers, and followers doing today?

HUGS, Danielle

Morning, Danielle

I see you are getting a jump on your busy tax preparation season. I wish you the best during this busy time. Have you hired any temporary employees yet? 

For me, I am volunteering at Laura's House today. I really enjoy working with the team there and know that it helps someone who is a victim of domestic violence. Then late do some grocery shopping.

Ellen

Food shopping and cooking, making my friend a birthday cake.

@EllenW
Thanks for jumping in on my Blog thread... I am always happy to see and to read your comment replies. 
YES, I now have 2 part timers...... a big help this time year as the tax season is getting into full swing.

I am so glad that your volunteer work at "Laura's House" is not only helpful to those in need but without a doubt it is a rewarding activity and experience for you. 

The staff is finally getting the Forum put back together after the New Year's crash ...... I have been burning the candle at both ends devoting a lot of time doing the things that can do to get things back in order but also at my CPA business.  If I didn't need to sleep at night it would give me more time to work on both tasks.

Again... thank you Ellen for posting and sharing.  You are always welcome to post anything here on my Blog thread.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: EllenW on January 18, 2024, 10:47:20 AMMorning, Danielle

I see you are getting a jump on your busy tax preparation season. I wish you the best during this busy time. Have you hired any temporary employees yet? 

Today was an all hands meeting at the new mixed company due to the take over of the company I work for. Got to see the new offices that we will eventually be working when our office closes. Met more of the staff. Did have that 'new girl' feel to it and a much bigger building.

Hugs
Xxx

Danielle, you are always upbeat and welcoming. Thank you for all you do.

Danielle.  Thank you for the weather you sent to the Southeast earlier this week.  It arrived pretty much intact, just a few degrees warmer than when you sent it.  Nights in the teens.  Days near freezing. 

It is my understanding that you are sending another blast this way this weekend.  That is awesome.  Thanks again.  But, that's all we need.  You don't have to keep sending it.  I wouldn't want Alaska to loose too much cool air.  It might affect migration or sea ice or something.  We don't need any more. 

But, thanks so much for what you sent already.

Rachel Montgomery


:)

While I lost all of my side threads, four years of your adventures are missing too. so glad to have this thread to follow your adventures and see how happy you are.

Laura May

We're feeling pretty frustrated with the cold temps in the northeastern U.S. right now. The wood stove isn't keeping up with the cold air that's slipping through the gaps in my 100 year old house. But it's 18º F ABOVE zero. After looking at your temps here, I realize that I have little cause for complaint.

Stay warm up there!

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 18, 2024, 10:31:15 AMIt will be a busy day today at my office when I get there... 
it is just after 7:15am here and I am getting ready to go to work. 

Here it is now minus -26 degs(f)  ...
it is not snowing now but we have several feet on the ground
left over from previous recent snow storms...

I'm in the Reno Nevada area, and when it's plus 26 and snowing here everyone is inclined to stay home, but you're off to work at -26 degrees and with fresh snow. Quite a different mind set between the two locations.

Up until about 5 years ago I never let the weather stop me.  If it looked like I'd need them, I thought nothing about putting the chains on the 69' GMC pickup and going about my business.  I had extra clothing, a tow strap and shovel in the truck just in case, and off I went.  In 25 years, the weather never kept me from work and I always made it home.  It was kind of a pride thing.  Sometimes it took the better part of the day, lol.

I'm back in the office for work now, but since the pandemic, I have the option to work from home when the weather is marginal.   Now, with a wife and 3 dogs, I'm inclined to stay home when the weathers bad.  I'm getting a little too soft in my later years. 

I hope you, and everyone are staying warm this weekend.

Warm Regards,
Paulie.

Sorry I'm late for the party. Thinking about baking something. It's cold and rainy here right now.

Hugs!
Donica

January 24, 2024 ....   Wednesday

VERY VERY VERY COLD today !

When I work up early this morning to get ready to go to
my office...
...the temperature was a Bone Chilling
        (minus) -47 degrees(f) or -44 degrees(c)
This afternoon at 3:30pm it "warmed up" to (minus) -33 degrees(f)

Just to put in my perspective this is one of the coldest days I have
experienced in the 6+ years that I have lived here.

HUGS,
Danielle

That is too cold for me.

Chrissy

Global warming ....

We have come out of our cold snap, some parts of Scotland min temp was -14C, down south -6c, beach weather for you Danielle. 

Then we had the 90mph storms coming over 2 in 3 days. Now it's calm and temps up to +14C as the air direction changes from north to south.

If you think it's extremely cold Danielle, then wow it's a whole different ball game.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 24, 2024, 06:36:35 PMJanuary 24, 2024 ....  Wednesday

VERY VERY VERY COLD today !

When I work up early this morning to get ready to go to
my office...
...the temperature was a Bone Chilling
        (minus) -47 degrees(f) or -44 degrees(c)
This afternoon at 3:30pm it "warmed up" to (minus) -33 degrees(f)

Just to put in my perspective this is one of the coldest days I have
experienced in the 6+ years that I have lived here.

HUGS,
Danielle

I don't think I could ever be comfortable living in a place where you put things in the refrigerator to prevent them from freezing. You must have a very warm heart to live in such a cold place.

Love always -- Jess

I always am talking about and mentioning my Tooth-Fairy sweetie and I realize that
as a result of the Forum crash at the first of January that I lost many of the
postings that showed her picture... 
This picture was taken at my recent hospital visit. 

(https://i.imgur.com/k2l79bXm.jpg)

I have been suffering from debilitating chronic Migraine headaches for several years
and some of the oral drugs and an injection drug that were prescribed to me in the past
did not really work that well.... and finally my doctor prescribed an Infusion drug that
has really done a good job in eliminating my chronic Migraines...  it has to be repeated
every 3 or 4 months so I usually plan a big city shopping trip in Anchorage which is
a little more than a 6 hour drive.

When I have my appointments ... my sweetie is kind enough that she always drives me
there and back and sits with me for the 2 hours or so before and during the appointment
and procedure.

HUGS, Danielle

For my more recent readers and followers I am thinking that you may not know
the story behind why I call my sweetie my Tooth-fairy.... 
.... go to this link on my Hunted Prey blog thread and read the details:
      https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,236395.msg2123977.html#msg2123977

HUGS,
Danielle

You two look very happy. It is great that she supports you so well when you get your treatments. I know how important that support is.

Ellen

Hi Danielle,

Thank you for posting the link about your sweetie Tooth-fairy!

I always wanted to live in Alaska. When I was young, I had this crazy dream to live in the Alaskan wilderness, build a log cabin and live off the land, pan for gold. I never made it to Alaska. Maybe a visit someday. I doubt that I am rugged enough to live off the land!

Kay

Happy birthday Danielle!


Chrissy

Happy Birthday Danielle  :icon_birthday:

Happy birthday, Danielle! :icon_birthday:

Happy Birthday Danielle! We hope you have a spectacular day!

Love Always -- Susan and Jessica Rose

Happy birthday dear, hope you are not to snowed in!!!

Happy Birthday Danielle. I hope you enjoyed yourself and did something special.
Hugs Gina

I am late to the party but just want to add, I hope you had a wonderful birthday.

You are very apricated here on Susan's

Ellen

Sorry I missed your b-day, Danielle. I don't even know how all y'all know the birthdays. Anyway, I hope it was fun.

The tooth fairy is a cutie...like you. Cutie + Cutie = A Cute Couple!

Thursday February 08, 2024

Busy day at my office. 
Lunch time here... my tooth-fairy sweetie is taking me
out to lunch today, she will arrive in a few minutes. 
Fortunately I have one of my part-timers here that will
look after things while I am at lunch.

Another very COLD winter day here:
  minus -30(f) when I went to work this morning and right now it is  minus -22(f)
              B U R R

HUGS, Danielle

I'm so very late to the party, non-the-less, I hope you had a wonderful birthday.
Barely into the +20 here and I think it too cold.  A least the snows melting slow and not making mud.

Warm regards,

Paulie.

Happy belated birthday! Sorry I'm unreasonably late to the party. I should have at least brought brownies or something.

I watched a program on telly last night about a UK TV presenters adventures in Alaska. She went south of Anchorage, feeding rescued baby moose and bears, learning to defend herself from bears and using a hand gun. Strangest bit was going to the Russian immigrants town and getting served Borscht , next week she is seeing what its like living off the grid! 

February 13, 2024  Tuesday evening

TOMORROW, WEDNESDAY, February 14th is
                        VALENTINE'S DAY  
i baked several batches of cutout heart Sugar Cookies wih colorful Sprinkles
for my peeps, followers, readers, and friends. 
I trust that you enjoy my cookies...
If more are needed I have 2 more full pans of cookies.
HUGS, Danielle

    (https://i.imgur.com/zDtv8PSl.jpg) 


                                  (https://i.imgur.com/YFFwIDml.jpg)

Munch munch, they look lovely.

Sunday, February 18, 2024  7:00am
Good Sunday Morning to my peeps here on my current Blog thread.

Woke up early this morning to (minus) -12 degrees(f)

I fixed my first cup of hot coffee and started getting ready for Church this morning...
.... shower, hair, minimal makeup, and figuring out what to wear today.  Whatever I wear
it will be WARM for sure... layers are my friend in cold temperatures.
The good news is that it is not snowing today.

Later today I am thinking of planning a small dinner and a board game at my home with
some of my friends.
At church this morning I will be able to figure who will be available.

Question: What are my readers and followers doing today?
Please, as always, feel free to post your comments and thoughts here.

HUGS, and my best wishes to you...
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Saturday morning:  7:05am    February 24, 2024

I got up and went to work at my office early this morning and I am working on
my 2nd Hot Espresso from the next door coffee shop...  and a Blueberry Scone.

Lots of work this weekend... tax season is in full swing.  I have my 2 part timers
coming in shortly to help out

Snowing and cold today... (minus) -18 degrees(f)  [-28C] 

Question for my followers and readers: What are you up to today... fun? work?

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 24, 2024, 10:13:47 AMSaturday morning:  7:05am    February 24, 2024

I got up and went to work at my office early this morning and I am working on
my 2nd Hot Espresso from the next door coffee shop...  and a Blueberry Scone.

Lots of work this weekend... tax season is in full swing.  I have my 2 part timers
coming in shortly to help out.

Snowing and cold today... (minus) -18 degrees(f)  [-28C] 

Question for my followers and readers: What are you up to today... fun? work?

HUGS, Danielle

Stay warm Danielle. It's nice that you have a coffee shop right next to you.

As Far as Jamie and I today we are going to a movie and then to playing video games with friends from Virginia. Before all that we are going to pick up some of my medications at the pharmacy. Plus we are spending time with our pets Bella and Leela. Hugs
Mariah

After watching a documentary on Alaska I have to ask have you eaten Moose head cheese?

@davina61
Dear Davina:
I think that I would have be starving to death to eat head cheese... moose, pig, cow, etc.

Regarding eating Moose meat... it is very good, not too different from beef other
than it is much more lean. 
When I make Meat Loaf or patties with ground-Moose meat, I have to add several
eggs into the mix so it will stick together otherwise it will just fall apart
when trying to serve it.
HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: davina61 on February 24, 2024, 12:39:29 PMAfter watching a documentary on Alaska I have to ask have you eaten Moose head cheese?

When I was young mum used to buy a pigs head and boil it to make brawn, if you dont know you strip the meat off and put it in a dish with a saucer and heavy weight on top so it makes a solid that can be sliced. The gelatine held it together.

Stay warm, Danielle!

I just finished doing lights and sounds for the last two shows of a children's play at the theatre.  It was a three-weekend, six-performance run.  Being the last day, we had a pizza party at lunchtime.  Someone brought donuts and cupcakes.  You should have heard the kids bouncing off the walls before the second show today.  Sugar high!!  The final show went well and played to a nearly-full house.

We had nearly 30mm of rain today, which melted most of the snow that was on the ground from last week.  Which sounds good, except that now we have a flash freeze and the rain changed to snow.  Luckily, I made it home from the theatre before the roads got too bad

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 24, 2024, 10:13:47 AMQuestion for my followers and readers: What are you up to today... fun? work?

For me this is a family weekend. My oldest sister (76) fell and broke her pelvic bone and has been in a rehab faculty for the past three weeks. So yesterday, my boyfriend and I went over to her module home and met my other sister to discuss how we can build a ramp to get in and out of the house easier. We think we have a plan just, need to get it approved. Today will be picking my sister up at the rehab and getting her up 5 steps into her house.

Ellen

Quote from: davina61 on February 24, 2024, 02:31:16 PMWhen I was young mum used to buy a pigs head and boil it to make brawn, if you dont know you strip the meat off and put it in a dish with a saucer and heavy weight on top so it makes a solid that can be sliced. The gelatine held it together.

Two people's separated by a common language -- I am pretty sure this is "head cheese" on this side of the atlantic. Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about it in one of the little house on the prarie books.

That was my thought but they didnt explain it on the program very well. Tongue sandwich was nice.

I have never had moose. I dislike duck, goose, deer, elk... most wild game. Except rabbit. On one of my first trips here to South Dakota, I was at a restaurant in Hill City called the Bumpin' Buffalo and I just had to try a buffalo burger. I fell in love.

Bison is leaner than beef, so cooking it is an art. It is low in fat (like you described Moose), so the key is to sear both sides of the burger on high heat, then finish cooking on low heat. Go to medium-rare if you can stomach it. It is the most juicy and delicious burger ever. If you overcook it, you will end up with a dry hockey puck. I make mine medium-rare then top it off with cheese, bacon, and the usual (ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, pickle). I tried changing the cheese to Bleu Cheese once and it was awesome.

Since then, I have studied the bison. More than tasty, they are a mighty and majestic animal. I just love them. They have an attitude of apathy. They are not afraid of anything and if you are in their way, or too close to their calf, you get one subtle warning. They will raise their tail. If you don't leave immediately, you will be attacked. Everyone who visits Yellowstone needs to know that.

Sorry, I'm rambling.  ;D

@LoriDee
Dear Lori:
I was raised and grew up in Northeastern Montana on my parents cattle and
horse ranch so we always had beef and wild game in the freezer.   

Also Buffalo/Bison meat is widely available there so we prepared all kinds
of meat dishes with it.
... Moose meat is very comparable in taste, texture and leanness.

I can't believe why the crazy tourists that go to Yellowstone would want to
approach a Buffalo and try to pet it or feed it. 
Just like Moose, they are dangerous animals and can run you down and
charge you... great bodily harm can result.

HUGS, Danielle

I would never guess that the Spring season will begin in 3 weeks... 
here it is still cold winter weather at almost the beginning of the month of March !!!

Good morning to my reader and followers... 7:40am here. 
I am drinking my 2nd cup of hot coffee before I get going to my office.... 

it is cold out there.... minus -14 degrees (f)    -26 (C)

Hugs, Danielle

Brrrr, I could not live there. It's 73F (23C) here, but it's going to cool off tomorrow with an expected low of 35F (2C). Stay warm, Danielle!

Love always -- Jess

Its been around 7C down to freezing but they say going up to as much as 15C over the weekend. Below 10C is to cold for me!!

Definitely Brrr. It is 14 degrees here (at least we are above zero), and it is windy and icy.

I counted 10 Robins in a tree, shivering and discussing the "Early Spring" announced by some groundhog in PA.

I had an appointment and when I came back the Robins were still there! A loud noise spooked them and I counted them as they flew away. I was wrong, there were 11 in that tree.

Spring has unofficially arrived.  The Redbuds and Bradford Pears are blooming and the Dogwoods will probably start tomorrow.  Here, it isn't considered spring until Easter, but I always consider it "unofficially spring when these flowering trees bloom. 

  @REM.1126
Dear Rachel:
No Spring weather here anytime soon... Yesterday it was minus -22 deg(f) am this morning it was minus -16 deg(f) ...this afternoon it warmed up to +6 deg(f)   It has been spitting snow for several hours and more coming tonight.

When Spring does arrive here and it warms up to just above frezing the first thing here that will pop up are my Daffodils .... but it will be at least several weeks before that happens.

Thanks for sharing and posting.
HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: REM.1126 on March 04, 2024, 05:11:29 PMSpring has unofficially arrived.  The Redbuds and Bradford Pears are blooming and the Dogwoods will probably start tomorrow.  Here, it isn't considered spring until Easter, but I always consider it "unofficially spring when these flowering trees bloom. 

That's so cold, Danielle. Your cold actually comforts me. It's good to read that there's still a part of the world where it's cold.

Bit of light snow and frost over the weekend here, hope mums Magnolia bush is okay as there were a lot of buds on it. Foggy morning but the sun is out and they say 11C today!

Dinner update:  Friday, March 22, 2024

I closed my office around 4:30pm and drove home to make myself dinner.

I felt like having a "breakfast" dinner tonight.

    2 Eggs Sunny side up
    "Little" Link sausage 
    Toast with homemade strawberry Jam
    and a glass of Tomato Juice.
        (https://i.imgur.com/aZmidiDl.jpg)

HUGS, Danielle

March 22, 2024
Baking adventure after I got home from work and after I had dinner tonight:

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with hand kneaded dough and topped with a
very tasty Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: 
        (https://i.imgur.com/EpEjxcGl.jpg)

I made 2 pans ....I obviously had to taste-test it to make sure that it was OK.  I will
be taking the 2nd pan to my office tomorrow morning to share with my 2 part timers and
with my clients that come in, but they better come in early or they will be gone.

HUGS, Danielle

Hi Danielle,

I hope everything is going well during this tax season.

Ellen

@EllenW
Dear Ellen:
As expected this time of year, with the IRS Income Tax deadline less than a month away, it is
a very, very busy time for my business. This year I had hired 2 part time young ladies that
help me with answering my phone and entering tax data into my computers so that I can concentrate
on crunching the numbers and filing the proper tax forms for my clients.

I am in my office today (Saturday) and will probably
be in my office tomorrow on Sunday afternoon after I get out of church.

I am quite accustomed to this kind of work schedule... long hours, sometimes 7 days a week, but
after the month of April my schedule will be back to "normal" .... however being self-employed with
my own business, there is no normal schedule, and I like it that way.

When tax season is not in full swing I am still busy with handling monthly taxes and P&L statements
for my business clients.  I also do financial planning all year long for my clients.

Thank you Ellen for your comment on my Blog thread...  you are always welcome here.
HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: EllenW on March 23, 2024, 10:49:55 AMHi Danielle,

I hope everything is going well during this tax season.

Ellen

I have a friend who owns an accounting firm in Illinois. I helped him during tax season for three years before I moved away. I understand the hours. We worked from January 1 to May 1, seven days a week and 14-hour days. We worked 12 hours on Easter Sunday. He had four accountants who worked full-time with taxes and payroll and handled the walk-in clients. Two of us worked part-time in the back room, handling the mail-in tax returns. It was fun and he paid us well. But yikes, the hours!

1. I hope all is....go to line 4
2. If its light out skip to line ....7
3. Have a nice night
Skip to line 8
4.  well. Unless it isn't go to line ....5
5. I hope things get better
6. go to line ....2
7. Have a nice day.
8. Hang in there April 15th is coming.
Hugs Gina

Here is the new simplified tax form:

    Line 1:    Enter all Income
    Line 2:    Enter postage stamp cost to mail in the tax return.
    Line 3:    Subtract Line 2 from Line 1 and enter the amount on Line 4
    Line 4:    This is the amount that you owe... send it all in.

I love it!

Easter Sunday is tomorrow on March 31st
,
  After morning church I have invited a few of my friends over
to my home for Easter Dinner.

  I will be making a Ham Dinner, with Scalloped Potatoes, steamed veggies (probably Peas and/or Carrots),
a Salad of some kind and I will make either a Cake or a Pie for dessert.

  Let's not forget about the real reason for Easter...
      ...it is not about an Easter Bunny and decorated hard boiled eggs...
    (https://i.imgur.com/O2YpZVu.jpg)

HUGS and have a wonderful and blessed Easter Sunday.
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

My best friend and her sister have invited me to go with them to the local "Slop Trough"... our nickname for Golden Corral or any buffet-style restaurant. I am no cook, so I am happy to go out occasionally. I envy those of you who can and do cook. Ham and scalloped potatoes are some of my favs!

Happy Easter.

Leg of Lamb was the traditional Easter dinner for us.  This year it's just 2 of us, so we're having lamb chops.  Most likely with some kind of baked potatoes.  We have a little vanilla ice cream left from last weekend, so my wife is making a peach cobbler to go with it for desert.

The reason for Easter is not forgotten, Bless you Danielle.
Paulie. 

Good Easter Sunday morning:

To all of my followers and readers...  I trust that you have a good day today.

   I will be hosting Easter dinner at my home later today for some of my friends from my Gym-Gals
group and gals from church...
...all single and unattached and they would otherwise be alone for this special holiday.

  After morning church I have invited a few of my friends over
to my home for Easter Dinner.

  I will be making a Ham Dinner, with Scalloped Potatoes, steamed veggies (probably Peas and/or Carrots),
a Salad of some kind and I will make either a Cake or a Pie for dessert.

  For my planned dessert I made an Apple Pie last night ...I will serve it with Ice Cream.
HUGS, Danielle

(https://i.imgur.com/ddZRfnLl.jpg)
     
      (https://i.imgur.com/f2fjp2fm.jpg)  (https://i.imgur.com/BT3EzYsm.jpg)

           

crumbly short crust pastry?

Quote from: davina61 on March 31, 2024, 01:39:31 PMcrumbly short crust pastry?

 @davina61
Dear Davina:
YES, crumbly short crust pastry ...
...however I like my pie crusts to be a little less crumbly so I add a little vinegar
when I make my dough and when rolling it out I wet my fingers with water which helps
to hold the dough together as I form it, lay it down and pinch the edges on the pie dish.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on March 31, 2024, 01:34:05 PMI will be hosting Easter dinner at my home later today for some of my friends from my Gym-Gals
group and gals from church...
...all single and unattached and they would otherwise be alone for this special holiday.

I love that. I hope it went well and the food and company were great.

~Jenn

I envy your friends and clients.  You sure do make some good looking food.

YUM!!!!!!!!!

Danielle, it looks like your Easter was celebrated in proper style!

I hope tax season is not too crazy for you...there are always chocolate chip cookies to see you through!

Hey Danielle!


Happy Tax Day!


Just a few more hours?


~Jenn

Danielle,

Another tax season is coming to close. I hope you and your sweety can celebrate soon.

Ellen

cc:  @EllenW  @Oldandcreaky  @Jenn104
     @Emma1017  @REM.1126  @Gina P
     @LoriDee  @Sarah B  @davina61   and .....

TO ALL of my Readers and Followers:
Well, finally things are slowly warming up around my area... the
last week here we had mid-day temperatures are getting into the low 50's (f) but
the early mornings are still quite chilly... many mornings and this morning the
temperature was 18 deg(f) [-8C]
I am expecting my flower garden and vegetable garden to start budding very soon and
my lawn at home will need mowing very soon.

The TAX SEASON is now finally over... it was quite a rush in early April as it always is.
Since the close of the IRS tax season on April 15th I have been busy tidying up my
office and cleaning up the paperwork messes that were a result of all of the last
minute tax preparation work that my part-time gals and I performed.

Now, my work days are mostly back to normal, whatever that is !!!! ::)
I still have year-round tax work for local businesses and my regular year-round clients
that look to me for Financial Counseling.

Thank you to all of my readers and followers for coming to my Blog thread and sharing
your comments and thoughts.... you are always welcome here to post whatever is on your mind.

Many HUGS,
Danielle 

When I helped my friend at his accounting office during tax season, the big rush ended around the 12th. From then into May it was filing extensions and amended returns. THEN things calmed down into regular payroll and quarterly returns.

Do you have the same experiences there?

@LoriDee
Dear LoriDee:

YES...I will be busy with tax work for at least another month but not like the rush it was right before the April 15th deadline.

The EXTENSIONS have to be/should be filed BEFORE the due date....  the AMENDED returns anytime after they were originally submitted.  My work is now busy with both of those things.   

The IRS has really improved this year, many of my clients have reported that they have received their REFUNDS within a week of filing.  The last several years IRS refunds have taken up to many months, up to 6 months at times.

Filing extensions and amended returns is usually not a good plan for the tax filer.... it usually delays any refunds and triggers extra and unwanted scrutiny from the IRS agents and employees. .... definitely not a good thing.

Fortunately, my business continues all year with by business clients and my Financial Advising clients.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: LoriDee on April 20, 2024, 12:24:01 PMWhen I helped my friend at his accounting office during tax season, the big rush ended around the 12th. From then into May it was filing extensions and amended returns. THEN things calmed down into regular payroll and quarterly returns.

Do you have the same experiences there?

Hi Danielle

Thats good to hear that you will not be so stressed out and you will take a break that you so richly deserve.

As you know I will be away for a couple of days, I will be in contact sort off.

Take care and have a nice day, its crappy here miserable wet and cold, but I like it!

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter
@Northern Star Girl

Sounds like business is good. They tell me the only thing worse than to much business is not enough. But I find I have more fun when we are slow. Life seams to follow the guise of lots of work and plenty of money but no time to enjoy it. Not enough work, plenty of time but no money to do anything. Ahh, such is life.
Glad things are warming up, 18 at night, wow.

Monday and Tuesday at my office I am now mostly done with tax work but now I have
been tidying up the paperwork disarray with the help of one of my part time gals.

              (https://i.imgur.com/Zme6Y6et.jpg)

Starting this morning I am taking entire week and week end off to enjoy some free
time and going on a road trip toward Fairbanks and then the northwestern part
of Alaska "toward" Nome.  NOTE: Nome is not connected by roads and the
only way there is by Air or by Sea....  so we are not actually going to get there but
we will enjoy the scenery out that way.

My tooth fairy and I will also get some serious shopping done in in the bigger city
of Fairbanks. 

It has finally been warming up substantially the last couple weeks.  Late nights
and early mornings are still below freezing temperatures...this morning 23 deg (f)
but around noon and in the afternoons the temperatures are around 50 deg (f) 

HUGS, Danielle

Sounds like a fun and well-deserved vacation.
Great pic!

Have a good time dear, I have seen Nome on the telly!

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on April 24, 2024, 12:20:25 PMNome is not connected by roads and the
only way there is by Air or by Sea..

You forgot "dog sledding" as a way to get to Nome  :icon_evil_laugh:

Ellen

I should add that if you see any yellow metal-looking rocks, you can send them to me and I will pay the postage.  ;D

Quote from: LoriDee on April 24, 2024, 03:53:15 PMI should add that if you see any yellow metal-looking rocks, you can send them to me and I will pay the postage.  ;D

 @LoriDee
Dear LoriDee:
I imagine that they would be heavier than normal rocks
especially if they are solid yellow... but you would know best.

The postage could be expensive!!!!
HUGS, Danielle

After a busy time at my office during the tax season ... especially March and
the first half of April, I am taking time off to take take a mini-vacation
and time off to take a road trip with my Tooth Fairy around the state.

Started out on Wednesday morning April 24th...
On my vacation road trip with my Tooth Fairy....
... at noon we arrived in Fairbanks.... time for shopping at a big mall
where there is a large variety of clothing and home goods that are not
readily available where we live.
We stayed the night in Fairbanks then the next morning we continued on
our way with our trip, planning to get back home on the weekend.

Thursday, April 25th:  We have been on the road all day, we stopped at a
nowhere little side of the road town and checked in to a motel and now we
are getting dinner....  Turkey Club sandwich and Clam Chowder for me, and
Tooth Fairy has a Deluxe Cheeseburger and Onion Rings....
(https://i.imgur.com/PZxWuEY.jpg)

                  (https://i.imgur.com/5aLtBzG.jpg)
It tasted as good as it looks..... and we were hungry...
we didn't stop for lunch after we had breakfast.    I could not eat it all,
so I took the left overs into our motel and might have the rest for lunch
tomorrow.... there is a small refrigerator in the room so that is a good thing.

 Lots of nice scenery today....
    (https://i.imgur.com/9iCVNiX.jpg)

                    (https://i.imgur.com/LbbzwpW.jpg)

Friday, April 25th:  As I had mentioned, Tooth Fairy and I started out
going to Fairbanks on Wednesday .... a nice bigger city with lots of shopping that is not
available where we live.... we kinda went nuts buying clothes....  on the way
back from heading in other directions around Alaska we are going back to Fairbanks
to fill the SUV to overflowing with a final shopping trip to Costco for some
groceries and other stuff.


I will update later as my time permits....  returning home on Saturday or Sunday.

HUGS, Danielle

Beautiful scenery and yummy food.
And friends and shopping.
What a vacation! Thanks for sharing!
Be safe.

Hi Danielle and Tooth Fairy

I love the pictures especially the mountain view with the water and the food looks so delicious I could eat it off the screen.

Sounds like your shopping spree is based on the; "out with the old and in with the new".  That definitely is a vacation to remember, short (should be longer) and sweet.  As long as you have fun that is the main thing.

As Lori says; "stay safe and thank you for sharing your vacation with us"

Take care and have a nice weekend and when you get home please let us know that you arrived safely.

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter

The scenery is stunning! Enjoy the rest of your well-deserved mini-vacation!!!

Looks like a nice adventure, have fun XX

Beautiful scenery. Alaska would be great if it wasn't so cold. :) Enjoy your trip.
Hugs Gina

It can get very warm in Alaska some days.

Likely not as often near the Artic Circle though.

Danielle,

Your highway photos remind me of my wonderful trip through your state last summer. Beautiful waters\ways and amazing snowcapped mountains.

Enjoy your well-deserved time off.

Ellen

Danielle,

Sounds like fun. Gorgeous pictures of Alaska. Glad you're getting some time to decompress. Hugs
Mariah

I think your Tooth Fairy has good taste in food. That looked pretty appetizing.

Hi Everyone

I'm sorry but, Danielle's lunch is better looking and healthier.  Tooth Fairy's onion rings, just look to big to be such, they look more like Calamari (yummy).

Next time they should invite us as well.

Have a nice weekend everyone, well whats left of it.

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter

Tooth Fairy and I arrived back home very early this morning
from our mini-road-trip vacation driving around the state.

Our road trip was also an opportunity to do some serious shopping
at a bigger city....  Fairbanks, the 2nd biggest city in Alaska has
big shopping malls, a Costco, and other stores not found in our
little town.

We filled up our SUV to overflowing with home goods and foods that
are difficult to find where we live.

After a very busy couple of months of tax season work it was refreshing
to get away from my office. 

I am now rested and ready to tackle future work and leisure tasks.

HUGS, Danielle

Glad you are home safe and got to do some fun stuff. That is always a good thing.
Now, get back to work! Slacker.  ;D

A Costco? Whoa. I'm in the lower 48 and we don't have one of those. Impressive. Your road trip/vacay/fill-the-SUV trip sounds fun and thanks for taking us along with your photos.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 update:

Since 2 days ago on Sunday when I returned from my road trip mini-vacation... I did not goto work at my office for more than an hour yesterday, and not be going in much today either.... taking time off and doing nothing related to work...
I still have my office open for walk-ins and phone calls, my part time gal is taking care of the phones and clients while I am away. She is filling up my appointment calendar with scheduled meetings with my clients... so I will still be working.

I could get accustomed to being retired, but the time is not yet.  At my home I was going to do some stuff outside but this morning it is COLD.... 19 deg (f) and cloudy....  [ minus -7 C] I will wait for it to warm up a little later this morning.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on April 30, 2024, 01:08:41 PMI could get accustomed to being retired

Danielle

Take from me, it is very easy to get accustomed to being retired.  :icon_geekdance:  :icon_headfones:

Ellen

A morning treat !!!!
(https://i.imgur.com/B5yvEkR.jpg) 

             (https://i.imgur.com/S8n3CUsl.jpg)

cc:  @EllenW  @Oldandcreaky  @Jenn104
      @Emma1017  @REM.1126  @Gina P
      @LoriDee  @Sarah B  @imallie
      @davina61  @BlueJay  @Moonflower  and ....

As most of my followers are aware, after Sunday church is over I usually
go out to lunch with several of my church gal friends:   (I am on the far right)
      (https://i.imgur.com/z2UhaeAl.jpg)

HUGS, Danielle

What a happy group of gals, led by your abundant joy.

There's nothing like a picture of smiling faces to cheer up my night. Thanks for sharing!!

Great Pics! always a joy to see your smile.

:)

~Jenn

May 11, 2024
Be certain to keep you eyes viewing the night sky this week to look for the Northern Lights.
For our members in the Southern Hemisphere, the Southern Lights.

Due to extreme Solar activity the Aurora will be visible in the lower latitudes...
...usually not to far from the horizon.... a sight usually not seen in the low latitudes.

Here where I live further up North in Alaska, the Aurora Borealis is frequently visible
on many cloudless nights...  due to the higher latitude where I am,  the light display is
quite high in the sky.... sometimes nearly overhead.
(https://i.imgur.com/0tE0TO5.jpg)

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

We can't see the aurora here.  Some friends have take. Photos with long exposures wherein you can see them.

Absolutely gorgeous. It's interesting now that I don't live in Washington State that sometimes it is vieable there now. Yet, in Arizona you have to be in Northern Arizona to possibly see them. Thank you for sharing the picture. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on May 11, 2024, 02:26:44 PMMay 11, 2024
Be certain to keep you eyes viewing the night sky this week to look for the Northern Lights.
For our members in the Southern Hemisphere, the Southern Lights.

Due to extreme Solar activity the Aurora will be visible in the lower latitudes...
...usually not to far from the horizon.... a sight usually not seen in the low latitudes.

Here where I live further up North in Alaska, the Aurora Borealis is frequently visible
on many cloudless nights...  due to the higher latitude where I am,  the light display is
quite high in the sky.... sometimes nearly overhead.
(https://i.imgur.com/0tE0TO5.jpg)

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Work is going well for me now that the tax preparation season came to an end on
the April 15th due date...

I have been working half-days and taking some time off in order to recoup from
the 7 days a week and 15 hour work days during the peak of the tax business
in late March and early April....    although I am still busy with late filings
and amendments for my clients tax submissions... along with my normal financial
planning business and year round tax work for my business clients.

Busy people are happy people is what I always say!!!! ... and I am so very happy. ;D

HUGS, Danielle

Well I was lazy today and still happy!!

Hi everyone....
Many of you that had attempted to log into the site and the Forum in the
last 3 days certainly became aware the the site was unexpectedly down.

Good News.... we are back up and NO DATA was lost, including no member accounts,
no posts, and no threads were lost.

A fresh backup is being done at this moment.

I am now recovering from this recent Forum outage...
              I started to have withdrawals!!!

All of you please have a good day today...

HUGS, Danielle

Your not the only one dear!

I think we were all a little worried. So good to be back.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

 A little bit of panic was starting to set in.  So glad it's back up and with no losses.

Good Monday Morning !!!
Started out fairy cool this morning at 38 deg(f) and later today the
temperature will only get up to 44 deg (f) .... and raining all day.

Today is Memorial Day in the USA - Monday, May 27, 2024     
          (https://i.imgur.com/0EiH4mC.jpg)
This day is all about honoring the men and women who died while serving in
the U.S. military.
Click link--> https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,248119.0.html

Many businesses and all banks are closed today including my office.

Later today I am planning a holiday lunch gathering at my home but with the rainy
conditions it will definitely be indoors.  I will be grilling hamburgers and
hot dogs... my friends are bringing baked beans, potato salad, chips and dips and
some dessert items

The days are getting very long .... and the nights are very short and brief, not really getting very dark, more like dusk or twilight for less than a few hours.
  Sunrise:  3:36am
  Sunset:  11:59pm 

I trust that all of my friends, readers, and followers are having a wonderful day.

HUGS and best wishes,
Danielle  [Northern Star Girl]

This day is all about honoring the men and women who died while serving in
the U.S. military.  True.  Not picnic day.  Not all Veterans' Day.

Let us remember all who have given the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.

However, it is always good to remember all who are serving or who have served in the military every day, including those who died in service.  Many thanks to all of them.

Chrissy

The weather here cleared up a little this afternoon and the rain stopped
so I took a short trip with my Tooth-Fairy sweetie to our small town local cemetery
where we showed our honor and respects to the fallen military members on this Memorial Day..
        (https://i.imgur.com/1G8QclHl.jpg)

I am emotionally touched when seeing the respect shown by all of
the American Flags placed at many of the graves.

HUGS, Danielle

TODAY June 06, 2024 D-Day 80 Year Anniversary
(https://i.imgur.com/EAmE6plm.jpg)
Thank you to the men and women from over 5 nations who made a sacrifice to help win World War 2
For details, check out my posting on the Military Veterans Confab    
      D-Day veterans return to Normandy for 80th Anniversary of allied invasion      
              https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,248199.0.html

Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator

Hi Danielle,

Thank you for posting this. I had several relatives in WWII. Planning a trip to the cemetery where my father is this weekend. He was a WWII veteran. Not in D-Day, but he contributed to the effort. We usually leave a flag and a dry flower arrangement.

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

To my readers and followers that pay quarterly "estimated" USA Income Taxes...
      Your 2nd quarter payment has to be in the mail and
      postmarked no later than this coming Monday, June 17th

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Summer has finally arrived here in the North...
Last week we had a few days that were fairly warm, mid 60's and even approaching 70 deg(f)
Nights were around 40 deg(f)

This week it has been raining and raining and raining and will be raining for several days
until the weekend when it will be sunny and warm.
This coming weekend on Saturday and Sunday the temperatures will be at and above 70 deg(f) and sunny.
The warmer temperatures and sunny skies will continue after the weekend through the following Friday.

The summer solstice is on June 20th which denotes the official start of the summer season....
... and, of course the the longest day and shortest night of the entire year.
  Sunset:  12:45am  (just after midnight)
  Sunrise:  2:59am
 
Land of the midnight sun.  The sun will just barely dip briefly below the horizon for about 2 hours...
it will never get dark, just dusk and twilight until sunrise.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

I'm glad you have a nice weekend coming up, something to look forward to after all that rain. We've had an unusually warm end of spring here and I'm enjoying all of it.  High 90's in the valley and high 80's up here at home.  It is going to cool down to just below the seasonal normal after this weekend (mid to high 60s). 

I always look forward to the solstice, but it's kind of bitter sweet because it means the days start getting shorter.
Do I sound like a pessimist?  :-\   Sorry, LOL.

Enjoy your nice end of Spring weekend.

Paulie.

Well I hope summer hurries up here, we had a few hot days a while ago but its stuck in a cold blast. Temps around 15C to 18C and we nearly had a frost the other night, had to put a thermal blanket on top of my summer duvet. Rain again this afternoon, just hope it holds off till I get back from food shop.

I am on vacation and I thought I saw Danielle the other day but she must have been a look alike!


Chrissy

  @ChrissyRyan
Dear Chrissy:
Are you traveling in Alaska??? 

I have seen quite a few women that kinda look like me ... blue eyes, blonde hair.... 
.... even here on the Forum there are one or two members with Avatars that by
first glance might qualify as a doppelganger.

HUGS, Danielle
...

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 13, 2024, 12:17:25 PMI am on vacation and I thought I saw Danielle the other day but she must have been a look alike!


Chrissy

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on June 13, 2024, 12:33:02 PM  @ChrissyRyan
Dear Chrissy:
Are you traveling in Alaska??? 

I have seen quite a few women that kinda look like me ... blue eyes, blonde hair.... 
.... even here on the Forum there are one or two members with Avatars that by
first glance might qualify as a doppelganger.

HUGS, Danielle
...

No.

Love the blog Danielle, getting all the small updates,

Hugs
Mandy

Dear Friends, Readers and my Followers:
Here it is.... summer is half over already... where is the time going?
The days are long and fairly warm and the nights are still short here
in Alaska.

My CPA office has been super-busy ....  financial uncertainty makes my clients
quite nervous, so lots of client meetings, trading, buying and selling
securities and stocks.... and adjusting their investment strategies.
``````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````
Tomorrow, Thursday, July 25th I am waking up very early to make the long drive
to Fairbanks for a doctor appointment... My tooth-fairy sweetie is taking the day off
from her dental hygienist work to travel with me for the day. 

After my morning appointment she and I are planning a bigger city shopping trip. 
We have quite a long list for groceries and other items that are difficult to find
here in my small town. 
On past trips like this my poor SUV get packed full to the brim for the trip back
home in the evening.

I will keep everyone updated when I have internet access during some of the day.

Have a wonderful day everyone....
HUGS, Danielle  [Northern Star Girl]

Sounds like fun! Be safe and shop til you drop.  ;D

@Lori Dee
Dear Lori:
Fun, except for the morning doctor appointment....
      .... I am allergic to needles.
HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Lori Dee on July 24, 2024, 11:28:24 PMSounds like fun! Be safe and shop til you drop.  ;D

I never liked needles but after all the injections and blood tests I am "fine". Nights are drawing in here now------------

Hi Danielle

When you get to Fairbanks let us know that both of you have arrived safely.

Remember take a photo else it did not happen!  Enjoy your shopping spree and I hope your appointment goes well.

Little secret about me but don't tell anyone else or else they may get scared.  I Love Needles. So I would take your place any day.  Yes I know, I'm weird!

Take care, be safe and above all have fun.

Love and Hugs for You and Tooth Fairy
Sarah B
Official Greeter
@Northern Star Girl

@davina61  @Sarah B  @Lori Dee
I am now returning from my trip... I am on the road about an hour away from home.
My first stop will be dropping off my Tooth Fairy at her home long with her purchases.

My SUV is filled to the brim. 

After my doctor visit, we had a fun shopping trip,
and a nice lunch together at the Olive Garden in Fairbanks.

My doctor visit was good except for the needles that I am allergic to.... ::)

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

I am picturing the SUV filled to the brim... with your Tooth Fairy strapped to the roof.  ;D
Glad the shopping made up for the needles. You'll probably be worn out by the time you get home. I would be.

Quote from: Lori Dee on July 25, 2024, 11:35:15 PMI am picturing the SUV filled to the brim... with your Tooth Fairy strapped to the roof.  ;D
Glad the shopping made up for the needles. You'll probably be worn out by the time you get home. I would be.

@LoriDee
Arrived at Tooth Fairy's home to drop off her purchases. 

        My Brimming Full SUV ... no room for anything else. 

(https://i.imgur.com/U4Zd9lT.jpg)

That is great! Thanks for sharing.

Hi Everyone

I'm sure Danielle you took your medicine like a little good girl that you are.  With Tooth Fairy holding you down no doubt.  No wonder she is such a sweetie.  Did you get a lollipop for being Miss Goody Two Shoes?

Quote from: Lori Dee on July 25, 2024, 11:35:15 PMI am picturing the SUV filled to the brim... with your Tooth Fairy strapped to the roof.  ;D

Revenge is so sweet!!!  You cracked me up on that one, Lori !!!  I wonder why Danielle is so scared? Mmm....

Good to see and hear, that you are both safe and sound.

Love and Hugs
Sarah B
Official Greeter
@LoriDee
@Northern Star Girl

Come on there's room for 2 more cases of goodies!!!

Great shot. You look like my passengers when I am driving.  :icon_blink:

I got really busy in June and I neglected to post my photo
of "Midnight" Summer Solstice June 20, 2024 from inside my home.
HUGS, Danielle

           (https://i.imgur.com/sx6fdoTm.jpg)

Wow! That is gorgeous.
I remember the snow pic you posted. You live in beautiful country.

Thanks for sharing!

Wow, how I have missed these threads.  As always @Danielle, you are a fabulous inspiration and I am so glad to be back and seeing what you are up to!

Quote from: Myranda on August 20, 2024, 07:56:58 AMWow, how I have missed these threads.  As always @Danielle, you are a fabulous inspiration and I am so glad to be back and seeing what you are up to!

@Myranda
Dear Myranda:
I appreciate your kind words and I am glad that you found my blog thread again.

I most certainly recall your earlier time here on the Forum... and I am thrilled to see
that you were able to get your member account back again...
              WELCOME BACK

As you are certainly aware, the site experienced a site crash on January 1st this year and much
data was lost including member accounts, postings, private messaging, etc.

Through what seemed to be endless work, our staff has done a great job in piecing things
together again to very quickly have a fully operation site even though much of the lost
data appears to be unrecoverable. 

Some things have changed here on the Forum since you were last here... you should
read a couple announcements that were posted after the crash:

                  The New Years Outage and our Lost years
              https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,246809.0.html

                    The "NEW" updated Forum
              https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,247170.0.html 

            Important Update: Revising Our Language Moderation Guidelines
                https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,247169.0.html
           
              The Foul Language and Respectful Communication Policy
                https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,247168.0.html

... and be certain to read the revised and updated Terms of Service rules for the site.
              As we embark on this new chapter, we urge all returning members to familiarize themselves
              with our updated Terms of Service (TOS), which are vital for maintaining a respectful,
              inclusive, and safe environment for everyone.
You can review the new TOS here: 
              Susan's Place: Community Guidelines and Terms of Service
            --> https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,2.0.html

If you have any questions regarding the Forum please feel free to
send a Forum private message to me or you can Email me at alaskandanielle@yahoo.com

Many HUGS, and a BIG warm WELCOME back.
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator..

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 26, 2024, 03:35:45 PMI always am talking about and mentioning my Tooth-Fairy sweetie and I realize that
as a result of the Forum crash at the first of January that I lost many of the
postings that showed her picture... 
This picture was taken at my recent hospital visit. 

(https://i.imgur.com/k2l79bXm.jpg)

I have been suffering from debilitating chronic Migraine headaches for several years
and some of the oral drugs and an injection drug that were prescribed to me in the past
did not really work that well.... and finally my doctor prescribed an Infusion drug that
has really done a good job in eliminating my chronic Migraines...  it has to be repeated
every 3 or 4 months so I usually plan a big city shopping trip in Anchorage which is
a little more than a 6 hour drive.
HUGS, Danielle

I also get pretty bad migraines.  They start about 20 years ago when I lived overseas, but they were really in frequent up until maybe the start of the Pandemic, when they came more often.  But maybe over the last 2 years they have become quite frequent.  A small part of me wonders if it is from the Estrogen injections, but I can comfortably say that the frequency that I got them did not noticeably increase immediately after I switched to injections.  I'm probably over thinking it, given my sister's experience, which while I don't know exactly all the details was definitely tied to her hormone levels.

Thankfully, my migraines are treatable with acute care medication.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on April 30, 2024, 01:08:41 PMI could get accustomed to being retired, but the time is not yet. 

HUGS, Danielle

I know what you mean.  I have at least another 12 years or before I am eligible[/i][/u] to retire.  Which would give me a half-way decent pension all things considered.  That being said I am no where close to being able to retire mentally or financially.

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on May 27, 2024, 03:56:04 PMThis day is all about honoring the men and women who died while serving in
the U.S. military.  True.  ...  Not all Veterans' Day.

When I hear people thank Veterans on Memorial Day it really annoys me.

Waterfront? Whoa! Is that a lake, backwaters, the ocean, or river?

You and your sweetie are a cute couple.

@Oldandcreaky
What you are seeing is nearby overflowing river water because of summer
snow melt and many days of pouring rain.
My little town is hundreds of miles from any ocean.

Thank you for your kind words about my tooth-fairy sweetie.
HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Oldandcreaky on August 23, 2024, 06:48:44 AMWaterfront? Whoa! Is that a lake, backwaters, the ocean, or river?

You and your sweetie are a cute couple.

Ahh, so I was seeing it at its wettest. Well, wet or dry, I'm sure it's as pretty as you and your sweetie.

September 04, 2024  Wednesday Update

To my dear Forum friends and followers:

I have been busy all summer... lots of work at my business and lots of summer gatherings with friends.

Here it has been fairly nice weather except for extended times of rain. 
The long, long days and short nights of June and July are over and being slowly superseded
with the approaching Autumn season that will start in just 2 weeks on September 22nd.
Where did the summer go?  Time is going by so very fast it seems.

I am already feeling the Autumn weather and summer is not even over yet.
Today... early this morning when I woke up at around 6:00am the temperature outside
was a chilly 36 degrees(f) or 2 deg(C)  
Later today the temperatures will only get up to around  53 degree(f) or 12 deg(C)
It is forecast to be raining in this early afternoon for several hours.

Based on what I am reading about the high heat warnings especially in the
Southwest USA (California, Nevada, Arizona) and also in the Southeastern states and upper
Midwest and Northeastern states... my conclusion for me is that I am glad to be living where I am.

I trust that all of you are staying healthy and safe.
Many HUGS, ❤️❤️❤️
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
``````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````
NOTE:
THANK YOU for sharing and posting your thoughts and comments here on my latest Blog thread:
@Oldandcreaky @Myranda @Lori Dee  @Gina P @davina61 @Sarah B  @Mandy Spencer  @ChrissyRyan  @Paulie  @Kay226
@Jessica_K  @Mariah  @REM.1126  @Jenn104  @imallie  @EllenW  @BlueJaye  @Emma1017  @Jessica_Rose  @KathyLauren
@Courtney G  @Donica  @LauraE  @TXSara  @Alice  @Moonflower  @JudiBlueEyes  @CaelaNotKayla

Climate Change, formerly known as Global Warming will eventually force all of us to become your neighbors. You might need to start building additions to your house to accommodate all of us.  ;D

Yes the weather has been all over the place this summer, rain today and 17C but the weekend is sunny and mid 20C . Good job as going to the local VW van show.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on September 04, 2024, 01:12:14 PMBased on what I am reading about the high heat warnings especially in the
Southwest USA (California, Nevada, Arizona)

Here in Orange County, CA we have high heat warnings ever September. 60 plus years ago when I was in elementary school, we always complained that the warmest days (over 90F) were just as school started after Labor Day. Which sucked since we did not have air-conditioned schools

Ellen

Even though it is not yet the winter season... here where I live the temperatures lately
are COLD... this morning when I woke up it was 15 deg (f) and a light
snow on the ground
... and it is still the month of September.  Later today it got up to 21 deg(f).  Last week I got
all of my warmer winter clothes organized in my closet.  I have winter tires on my truck and SUV...
 ... I am ready!
Hugs, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on September 29, 2024, 06:49:11 PMEven though it is not yet the winter season... here where I live the temperatures lately
are COLD... this morning when I woke up it was 15 deg (f) and a light
snow on the ground
... and it is still the month of September.  Later today it got up to 21 deg(f).  Last week I got
all of my warmer winter clothes organized in my closet.  I have winter tires on my truck and SUV...
 ... I am ready!
Hugs, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Brrrrr. Today we hit 95. Sending some heat your way.  ;D

Quote from: Lori Dee on September 29, 2024, 07:44:48 PMBrrrrr. Today we hit 95. Sending some heat your way.  ;D

@Lori Dee
Dear Lori:
    15 deg(f) is not cold enough to cause any serious issues.

In another months when Winter really hits then we will get the negative
temperatures and snow and ice.
Typically in December, January and February we can have BELOW ZERO
temperatures for weeks on end... sometimes minus -15 to -25 (f) and
there are several days that the temperatures will not get above the
bitter cold temperatures of minus -30 to -40 .... the coldest
temperature that I have experienced here was minus -48 deg (f) in 2018.
In those bitter cold below ZERO temperatures one has to be very
careful to cover up and bundle up ...wearing many layers is my friend. 

Around town in many business parking lots they provide AC outlets for
vehicles to plug in the block heater and battery wrap.
 
Winter tires, not just regular snow tires are what is required.
 
Winter tires are designed for the sub-Zero colder temperatures.
They use a specially formulated rubber compound that will stay pliable
and grippy in the cold.

I have been through North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and surrounding
states in the the winter time and I know that the temperatures can get
very cold in those states.  I was in Minneapolis and also in Fargo some
years ago and experienced a few days of minus -30 to minus -35 degrees.

HUGS, DanielleNorthern Star Girl

Usually, when we get that cold -40 or so it is due to wind chill. I tell women to not wear jewelry or tight clothes. Yes, it looks nice, but frostbite is no fun.

We did cold weather tank warfare training in Germany in 1984 and my face froze. I had blisters all over and the medics put me on indoor duty for two weeks. I hated being inside where it was cozy.  ;)

I take no chances when it is cold out. Scarfs and ski masks are your friend in the wind.

0-15 degrees F with sunshine is my favorite bike racing weather. Winter fat tire bike racing is a lot of fun. But I really can't think of anything outdoors that is enjoyable at -40. Maybe ice fishing if you have an insulated ice shack with a heater.

I second Danielle's advice about winter tires. I've been running studded Nokian Hakkapeliitta tires on my vehicles for about 20 years. Even my big 12 passenger van which is rear wheel drive with an open differential gets around great in snow storms and ice. Tires make all the difference.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on September 29, 2024, 06:49:11 PMLast week I got all of my warmer winter clothes organized in my closet.

I think my winter clothes would pass for your summer clothes. 

We hit the low 80s today. We'll be in the mid 70s at the end of next week, so I'm still enjoying summer.  We did get winter tires put on the SUV but probably won't really need them until mid December.

I'm glad you're ready for winter.

Paulie.

As I always say thats way to cold for me, had to layer up a bit already and its still mid teens C !!!

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on September 29, 2024, 06:49:11 PMEven though it is not yet the winter season... here where I live the temperatures lately
are COLD... this morning when I woke up it was 15 deg (f) and a light
snow on the ground
... and it is still the month of September.  Later today it got up to 21 deg(f).  Last week I got
all of my warmer winter clothes organized in my closet.  I have winter tires on my truck and SUV...
 ... I am ready!
Hugs, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Southern Utah on Saturday, 102F. 

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on May 11, 2024, 02:26:44 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/0tE0TO5.jpg)

I found my inspiration. You sent me this photo in private messages, the painting is well underway.

Hello, Danielle. Judging by the photos, the nature of Alaska reminds me a lot of my native Karelia. When I find myself in the city I miss the sounds of the forest a lot, I feel anxious, the pictures brings the memory of sounds in the brain and give partial tranquility.

I appreciate that you not only keep the forum afloat, on your fragile shoulders, but you're a symbol, an icon. So much work and self-discipline in that beautiful face. Thank you for existing.

Saturday, October 25, 2024  Update:
I have been very busy at my office, working 6 days a week, and sometimes I will go in
on for a few hours on Sunday after church and lunch to clean up the paperwork and
be ready for the next day, MONDAY !!!  No rest for the weary but most members that
have followed my postings for many years will know that my favorite saying is:
      "Busy People are Happy People"   ....  so in conclusion, I am very happy indeed.

Winter has very much arrived here.... 
...today where I live it has been quite cold 9 degrees (f)  [minus -13 deg C]
and it has been SNOWING ....  I love the fresh snow.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

I enjoy staying busy, but not busy shoveling snow.
Keep that stuff up there, please.  ;D

This morning's important task DONE !!!

              (https://i.imgur.com/J6hWiLMm.jpg)

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on November 05, 2024, 03:11:04 PMThis morning's important task DONE !!!

              (https://i.imgur.com/J6hWiLMm.jpg)

Good for you!

Chrissy

November 13, 2024    Wednesday evening

...early Winter has hit hard yesterday and today.

Several inches of snow on the ground.....             
    ....cold temps, right now (minus) -4 deg (f)  [-20 C]
and cold temperatures all this week.

HUGS, Danielle

Bundle up!

Those temps are way below the shiver point. brrrrrr  ;D

6C rising to 10C yesterday and thats cold enough for me working on my friends car in his garage with the doors closed. Chuck another log on the fire!!!

Stay warm with your fireplace, baked goods, and sweetie!

Winter weather continues, lots of snow today and cold ... -2 deg (f)
Here is a picture of my driveway this afternoon.

          (https://i.imgur.com/EJbHMHfl.jpg)

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on November 16, 2024, 09:46:32 PMWinter weather continues, lots of snow today and cold ... -2 deg (f)
Here is a picture of my driveway this afternoon.

          (https://i.imgur.com/EJbHMHfl.jpg)

Beautiful, but I hope you don't have to shovel that to get to work.  :icon_yikes:

Quote from: Lori Dee on November 16, 2024, 09:51:25 PMBeautiful, but I hope you don't have to shovel that to get to work.  :icon_yikes:

Probably some of her men friends help with the snow removal.

We all appreciate our amigos. 

Chrissy

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on November 16, 2024, 10:05:41 PMProbably some of her men friends help with the snow removal.

We all appreciate our amigos. 

Chrissy

Or hitchhike into town with the Iditarod Teams.  ;D

@ChrissyRyan    cc: @Lori Dee
Dear Chrissy:
You are very correct.  Many of my coffee shop (male) friends that I initially
met when I relocated here back in 2017/2018 as the new girl in town...
...without me asking, they arrive to snow plow my driveway and to shovel
the snow around my home... 
...some of then have become my CPA clients as well.

I do make certain to thank them profusely with baked goods, pies and
cookies that I frequently make.

For certain, as you stated:  "We all appreciate our amigos"

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on November 16, 2024, 10:05:41 PM

Probably some of her men friends help with the snow removal.

We all appreciate our amigos. 

Chrissy

Beautiful winter weather you are having Danielle. But way to cold for me. I'll stick to the fall weather down hear in the states and continue to trail ride for as long as our nice weather lasts. 63deg here yesterday.

The short days of the winter time are definitely here... it got dark here
about 15 minutes ago around 3:00pm and the sun won't be rising tomorrow morning until
almost 10:00am.

The positive thing about the shorter days and long dark nights is the spectacular
night sky.... no big city lights to interfere with the view. 

 I am closing my office a little early and then going to dinner at ToothFairy's home,
 then sitting with her in front of her warm fireplace ..... 

.....it is cold here today, SNOW on the ground and right now the
temperature is minus -12 deg (f)    [-25 C]     burrrrrrrrrr
             

HUGS, Danielle

I think that is a State Law... temps below -10 require snuggling by a fire.

We have been in the 40s - 50s. At night, it dips down to the 30s but we have only had one night below freezing. It got down to 30F and then back up to 54 by afternoon.

Wild temperature swings are not unusual here.

Spearfish, South Dakota holds two Guinness World Records for the fastest temperature change in history:

Fastest temperature rise

On January 22, 1943, the temperature in Spearfish rose from −4°F to +45°F in two minutes. This was caused by a Chinook wind that rapidly picked up speed. The temperature change was so extreme that it cracked glass windows and frosted car windows.

Fastest temperature drop

A short time after the temperature rise, the Chinook wind died down and the temperature dropped back to −4°F in 27 minutes.

The extreme temperature change was so unusual that it made national news and was even featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not. The fluctuating temperatures also damaged many pine trees in the area.

Moral of the Story:

If you think snuggle time is over, hang on. It might not be.  ;D 

An Atmospheric river and bomb cyclone both have or will attack the west coast of the USA soon.
I think Frisco area already has been hit by a downpour.

Good sprinkle of snow this morning, temp hardly above freezing for the rest of the week. Bit soon for the normal UK weather.

 That is gorgeous. That is the element of snow that I do miss.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on November 16, 2024, 09:46:32 PMWinter weather continues, lots of snow today and cold ... -2 deg (f)
Here is a picture of my driveway this afternoon.

          (https://i.imgur.com/EJbHMHfl.jpg)

Dear Followers, Friends, and Readers:

Winter is in full swing....  lots of Cold and Snow
The temperatures later in the week around Thanksgiving Day
on Thursday are forecast to be bitter cold at
minus -27 degrees (f) [-33 deg C]
``````````````````````````````````````````
My business has been good and I have been very busy.

I am planning some good times around Thanksgiving, making dinner
for my Toothfairy and 4 friends from my church ladies group and
2 friends from my Gym Gals group. 
Should be fun.... everyone will be bringing their favorite dish or dessert.

Around Christmas I am planning a trip to see my Dad and Mom back home at
their Montana Ranch where I was raised.  I have not been back there for
several years.  Both of my parents health has been deteriorating for the
last 4 or 5 years... and my Dad is not doing very well and he keeps saying
that he will not make it to the 2025 New Year but even though he is dealing
with some health issues, I think that is an overstatement... I hope so anyway.

What are your plans for Thanksgiving? ... and for Christmas.

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and a Merry Christmas.
HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Brrrrr that is cold!!!!

I will go to sit closer to my fireplace now!


Chrissy

ON holiday in a few weeks for a turkey and tinsel coach trip, well she needs looking after. Thursday off to pick up my new hot rod build from 300 miles away, not much for you US folk but in the UK it means an over night stay. Christmas it looks like I am cooking for myself and mum unless we get a better offer (doubtful)

To all of my Forum Readers, Followers and Friends:

                    Happy Thanksgiving!

Sending you warm wishes and a harvest of blessings this year's Thanksgiving.

I am grateful that we have met and I am wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving.

May your Thanksgiving be a time of reflection, gratitude, and overflowing
with love and laughter.  Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.

Sending you my warmest wishes for a joyous Thanksgiving and be thankful for
the blessings of the past year and looking forward to the year ahead.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving day filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. [/size]


NOTE: Even though November 28, 2024 Thanksgiving Day is a USA Holiday,
there is much wisdom and good thoughts ...and excellent advice in the above words.

Warmly with HUGS,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator

Happy Thanksgiving Danielle!

Chrissy

Happy Thanksgiving to you too.

Always a day late and a dollar short it seems.

Belately, Happy Thanksgiving all!

To ALL of my Followers & Readers, and Forum Members:


Blessings to you all.
Warmly,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Merry Christmas dear, stay warm with toasty toes.

Mery Christmas, Danielle.

And thank you for all you do!

Big Hugs!

Danielle,


Merry Christmas!

Chrissy

---

---

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
@Northern Star Girl

Merry Christmas Danielle. Say hello to Santa for me. He lives near you, doesn't he?

To all of my friends, readers, followers, and all Forum members.              

Don't let the shadows of yesterday destroy the sunshine of tomorrow.
Live for today and plan for tomorrow.

It's time to celebrate the 2025 New Year.
      (https://i.imgur.com/jMlic4H.jpg)

Every story has an end but in life, every ending is just a new start.

Forget all the pain, sorrows, and failures of the past year.
Welcome this new year with optimism, hope, and a big smile. 

I desire and pray that you may enjoy good health, great success,
happiness, boundless joy, and peace of mind.

A new year is like a blank book. The pen is in your hands.
It is your chance to write a beautiful story for yourself.

I hope that the New Year will allow you to say farewell to the old and
hello to the new things that are headed your way.

May all the seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, and months of this
New Year bring you immense joy and good fortune! Happy New Year!

Hugs and my best wishes to all,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Thanks, Danielle.

As the saying goes, "Same to you, but more of it."  ;D

Happy new year, Danielle.

And... in terms of the site, you've done a wonderful job since having to deal with a lot of stuff in a short time. Always knew you had it in ya, girl.

Here's to 2025 <3

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on December 31, 2024, 11:43:52 AMTo all of my friends, readers, followers, and all Forum members.              

Don't let the shadows of yesterday destroy the sunshine of tomorrow.
Live for today and plan for tomorrow.

It's time to celebrate the 2025 New Year.
      (https://i.imgur.com/jMlic4H.jpg)

Every story has an end but in life, every ending is just a new start.

Forget all the pain, sorrows, and failures of the past year.
Welcome this new year with optimism, hope, and a big smile. 

I desire and pray that you may enjoy good health, great success,
happiness, boundless joy, and peace of mind.

A new year is like a blank book. The pen is in your hands.
It is your chance to write a beautiful story for yourself.

I hope that the New Year will allow you to say farewell to the old and
hello to the new things that are headed your way.

May all the seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, and months of this
New Year bring you immense joy and good fortune! Happy New Year!

Hugs and my best wishes to all,
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Danielle,

What a beautiful sentiment.

Mya you and your tooth fairy sweetheart have a wonderful 2025.

Ellen

Happy New Year Danielle!


Chrissy

A brand new year....
....2025 has arrived today on Wednesday, January 1st, New Year's Day


The sun has not risen yet today, it is now 9:37am my local time...
  typical short winter day today. 
        sunrise 10:49am 
        sunset 2:49pm

``````````````````````````````````
It is very bitter cold outside... 9:39am 
....still dark outside there has not been a sunrise yet.   
minus -41 degrees (F) or -40.5 deg (C )  clear skies.

I spending my day off today inside my home sitting in front of
my fireplace while reading a good book.

***QUESTION*** 
What are your plans for this New Year's Day ? ???

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 01, 2025, 12:41:28 PMA brand new year....
....2025 has arrived today on Wednesday, January 1st, New Year's Day


The sun has not risen yet today, it is now 9:37am my local time...
  typical short winter day today. 
        sunrise 10:49am 
        sunset 2:49pm

``````````````````````````````````
It is very bitter cold outside... 9:39am 
....still dark outside there has not been a sunrise yet.   
minus -41 degrees (F) or -40.5 deg (C )  clear skies.

I spending my day off today inside my home sitting in front of
my fireplace while reading a good book.

***QUESTION*** 
What are your plans for this New Year's Day ? ???

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Danielle,


Stay warm and enjoy your book.

Chrissy

I have been home sick since yesterday....  bad cold, sore throat, and
a slight fever.

I am not going anywhere soon.... staying in my warm home frequently
drinking HOT tea.   

Outside it is still very cold and right now
        it is minus -43 deg (f)  {-42 deg C}

That's just too brrrr.

Stay warm, rest up, and feel better soon.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 02, 2025, 07:59:21 PMI have been home sick since yesterday....  bad cold, sore throat, and
a slight fever.

I am not going anywhere soon.... staying in my warm home frequently
drinking HOT tea.   

Outside it is still very cold and right now
        it is minus -43 deg (f)  {-42 deg C}

 I hope your ailments go away soon.

 Hugs,

 Chrissy

Get well soon dear, and then I am deciding if I will go to the workshop as its cold . Okay +2C is too cold for me, I just dont know how you manage -41C.

Hi Danielle

Stay warm, drink lots of fluids including chicken soup and orange juice and if your cold persists please see a doctor.

Love and Hugs
Sarah B

I am keeping my home extra warm... fireplace is on high!!! 
I took today off work and stayed in my night clothes, I am
feeling a little better now.

It is much colder tonight  minus -53 deg ((f) [-47 deg C] 
At that temperature mechanical equipment, cars, batteries, 
don't work so well. 
Most vehicles have block heaters and heated battery wraps that
can be plugged into power outlets....  most street and business
parking lots have power outlets in front of each parking spot. 
Special winter tires made with special rubber that stays more
pliable in bitter cold temperatures.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 03, 2025, 10:55:58 PMI am keeping my home extra warm... fireplace is on high!!!
I took today off work and stayed in my night clothes, I am
feeling a little better now.

It is much colder tonight  minus -53 deg ((f) [-47 deg C] 
At that temperature mechanical equipment, cars, batteries, 
don't work so well. 
Most vehicles have block heaters and heated battery wraps that
can be plugged into power outlets....  most street and business
parking lots have power outlets in front of each parking spot. 
Special winter tires made with special rubber that stays more
pliable in bitter cold temperatures.

Hopefully, you are not too isolated so you could get to town if you need to. I assume they are good at keeping roads open.

We have been hovering at 18F for a couple of days now with light snow. I stay inside mostly when it is that cold. PJs and fuzzy socks are the preferred uniform.  ;D

Still a frost here at midday, got my heating on at 21C so toasty. Honey and lemon hot water is a good helper and a good decongestant, I use Albas oil (not sure if you can get that) and it moves any blockage!!

Danielle, I agree with everyone here, chicken soup, plenty of tea, and stay warm.  I particularly like Lori's idea of "PJs and fuzzy socks".

-53 degrees is just crazy but I know you have prepped for this kind of weather.

Feel better!

Brrrrrrr

This is what we do in Alaska when it is super cold like it was last night  minus -53 deg(f)  [-47 deg  C] 
Most business parking lots have AC power outlets so that the car drivers can plug in their vehicle's 
engine block heater and heated battery wrap.  At my home, even when I park my car in my garage I
keep it "plugged" in. 
The car starts much easier and warms up more quickly.  At these bitter cold temperatures batteries
can lose more than half of their capacity and won't easily take a charge until they get warmer. 
Temperatures below -20°C (-4°F) may cause irreversible damage to Lead acid and also Lithium Ion batteries. 

That is one of the reasons that  there are not a lot of Electric Cars on the road here. 
  
            (https://i.imgur.com/lsdpku0l.jpg) 

Sunday Evening of January 05 , 2025

Having a heatwave today...
  Instead of minus -53 deg (f)  [-47 deg C]
of yesterday....
... it has "warmed" up significantly
to minus -20 deg (f)  [-29 deg C]

Lots of snow and ice on the roads.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

At very low temperatures, diesel fuel basically turns into a 'jell'. I knew someone in the mid-1980's who bought an Oldsmobile with a diesel engine. He liked the car, but there was a huge design flaw. The fuel filter was on the front of the engine. It was common during the winter for the car to 'die' while driving down the road because the diesel would turn into a jell. I know some people enjoy super-cold weather, but I'm not one of them. Stay warm, Danielle.

Love always -- Jess

A warm fireplace is nice to sit in front of during cold times.

Chrissy

UPDATE: Saturday morning, February 01, 2025

It is hard to believe that we are already in the month of February !!!

Where I live our coldest months are January and February...
 Very early this morning the temperature was (minus) -24 deg(f) [-31 C]

... and it is snowing.  Beautiful outside  
         (https://i.imgur.com/2leg93sl.jpg)

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 01, 2025, 12:00:11 PMVery early this morning the temperature was (minus) -24 deg(f)

It warmed up!
Spring is on the way!

Hi Danielle,

We live such different life's!  I'm complaining about +24 degrees and you're celebrating -24 degrees.

We are also having a seasonal heat spell.  January and February would normally mean snow here, today and for the next few days we're getting rain.

Stay warm, god bless.

Paulie.

Hi Danielle!

I hope you are feeling better. It is always such a good feeling when you turn the corner from ill to well!

We were only -20 F here before the windchill this morning in rural Ottawa so I will stop complaining after reading your temperature data!

Thank you for the work that you do for this forum!

Bronwynn

Happy birthday Danielle!

May it be a wonderful day for you!

Hugs,

Chrissy

I hope you have an awesome birthday! Maybe it will warm up a little for you today.

Love always -- Jess

Hi Danielle and Chrissy

A simple Happy Birthday to both of you from me, with hugz and I wish you both, all the best for the future.

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@Northern Star Girl @ChrissyRyan

 :icon_birthday:

Danielle, enjoy your special day.

Ellen

Happy birthday my dear, hope your tooth fairy made a cake!!

Happy Birthday. Hugs
Mariah

Happy Birthday, Danielle!

And thanks for all you do here.

Quote from: davina61 on February 05, 2025, 04:55:00 PMHappy birthday my dear, hope your tooth fairy made a cake!!

@Davina
Dear Davina:
Yes she made me dinner and a cake!

Lovely day indeed .... my tooth fairy came to my home and made a birthday dinner for me ...
...along with a birthday cake with ONE candle.   
Medium Rare Sirloin Steak, Sauteed mushrooms and onions, Steamed Broccoli and Cauliflower
with a cheese sauce, Baked Potato with Sour Cream and cheese..... 
...then for the finale, a Strawberry 2 layer cake with one candle. 
 
(https://i.imgur.com/dgb2oxqm.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/NXmMS6jm.jpg)

Nice!

Lovely XXX

Happy belated birthday Danielle!  I'm glad you had a nice birthday celebration.

Paulie.

@Danielle  Happy Belated Birthday!

Happy Birthday, Danielle! 🎂🎈🎉

I see I'm a bit late to the party. Happy Belated Birthday Danielle! I hope it was a good one.

Happy belated!

Wednesday February 12, 2025 UPDATE:
It is bitter cold out there this morning...  minus -27 deg(f) [-33 deg C]
No new snow, but their is lots still on the ground and also icy and snowy roads.
            (https://i.imgur.com/2leg93sm.jpg)

The photo above was taken at my front door...
...it is still early here 7:40am and the Sun has not risen yet, Sunrise in about an hour from now.

I have gotten out of bed, had my first cup of morning coffee
and have already taken my morning shower, fixed my face and makeup... and will be heading to
my office soon... I have several morning client meetings ... financial planning stuff and some
early tax preparation work for my early bird tax clients.

At NOON today I am going to the gym with my Gym Gals group (including my Tooth Fairy)...
... it is always a fun time.  After we shower up when we finish our Gym outing we will probably go out
for coffee or maybe lunch.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Cold weather!

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on February 12, 2025, 11:00:53 AM...it is still early here 7:40am and the Sun has not risen yet, Sunrise in about an hour from now.

Yeah, but the sunset was back on December 12th. Brrrr.

I like that avatar photo. No signs of shivering.  ;D

Here where I live we do have long winters with long nights and short days, but there
are many visual benefits such as when I drove to the nearest big city last week...
    (https://i.imgur.com/VkgoL0P.jpg)

Wow, that is a great pic of the mountains! I love it.

Love photo, reminds me of my trip from Fairbanks to Anchorage. You have very lovely views when driving up there.

Ellen

On Sunday, March 09, 2025 Daylight Savings Time begins at
2:00am Sunday morning in most states in the USA... 
      Clocks go forward ONE HOUR.

Hawaii and Arizona are the only two states that don't participate
in daylight saving time.

Alaska time is one hour "earlier" than Los Angeles time and
4 hours "earlier" than New York time.

HUGS, Danielle

Incredible view. On my bucket list to go there some day.

End of the month for UK time change.

It is still too cold!

Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Bitter Cold temperature, Lots of SNOW....   
        Welcome to my world !!!!!!

The good news is that there are have not been any significant or
destructive Tornadoes and Hurricanes here.

Headlines: 
Anchorage
A Mount Spurr eruption is 'likely' within weeks or months, scientists say
https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2025/03/12/a-mount-spurr-eruption-is-likely-within-weeks-or-months-scientists-say/

Yikes!

That is kind of scary.

Make sure you are stocked up on emergency supplies before everyone else rushes out to get them.

Maybe His Orangeness could go there and "drill, baby, drill" and release some pressure.  ;D

@Lori Dee
Dear Lori:
No worries about me being well prepared for bad weather and subsequent
power outages and other supply chain problems with food and heat.
You have been reading my blogs and posts for a long time and you know
that I keep my food pantry fully stocked, propane tanks full at home, my gas tanks in my vehicles
near full, the cars well maintained and well equipped with cold weather
remedies and I have lots of warm clothing and boots.  Lots of batteries
for flashlights, radios, etc.... and an extra gas for my generator.

Today is the FIRST DAY of the SPRING season and the temperature outside
at midnight was minus -5 deg(f) {-21 C} and right now it is minus -2 deg (f)

Up here where I live my spring weather really doesn't start until late MAY
or early JUNE.

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Lori Dee on March 13, 2025, 04:32:13 PMThat is kind of scary.

Make sure you are stocked up on emergency supplies before everyone else rushes out to get them.

Maybe His Orangeness could go there and "drill, baby, drill" and release some pressure.  ;D

Happy spring to you!

Chrissy

I think there was an old Johnny Horton song that said:

"When it's Springtime in Alaska, it's 40 below."  ;D

The weather is improving.  I think it has been a mild winter.

A coworker came over twice to clear my driveway this season.  I always make cookies for him or another person doing this as a thank you.

It is nice to have people that help out!

Chrissy

UPDATE:  April 05, 2025

SPRING weather has arrived:  Mild temperatures today at 33 degrees(f) partly cloudy, NO snow or rain.

In my business as a CPA and Tax Prep - Financial Consultant this is obviously
my very busy time of year.

In the USA, the Internal Revenue Federal Income Tax due date for individuals and businesses is
on the "infamous" date of April 15th every year. 

Since mid-February I have been working long hours, many times 7 days a week.
I have 2 temporary part-time gals helping me in my office.

ONLY 10 days remaining of this "madness" ...HOWEVER, even after the April 15th due date
there are a lot of procrastinators that will be filing "extensions"... so I probably
I will be quite busy for at least another several weeks before my business returns
somewhere close to normal.

Message for my readers and Forum friends:
I hope that all of my Forum friends have filed or will soon file their Income Tax Returns
and have taken care of their Income Tax filing obligations for the Tax Year 2024.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

I helped my friend out in his accounting business during tax season. It got busy in January (mostly business quarterlies and payroll stuff), and we worked 7 days a week into May. I remember my first year there working twelve hours on Easter Sunday.

I can relate to what you are doing.

UPDATE:  Morning of April 09, 2025 ... Wednesday

It is springtime ! !!!

Early this morning:  18 degrees(f)    [minus] -8.5 deg(C)
            (https://i.imgur.com/tGIlH2hm.jpg)

I'm glad it warmed up enough for you to let your pets outside to play.

Love always -- Jess

18 wow, time to put on the swim suit. 
My tax accountant has me coming in at 11 on Palm Sunday. So much for church.

Quote from: Gina P on April 09, 2025, 11:13:41 AM18 wow, time to put on the swim suit.
My tax accountant has me coming in at 11 on Palm Sunday. So much for church.

@Gina P
Dear Gina:
Why the Rush ???  LOL

Palm Sunday is on April 13th and
the IRS Income Tax Filing DEADLINE is 2 days later
on the following Tuesday on April 15th

The procrastination "virus" is why I will be working 18 hour days and
weekends for another several weeks.
After the April 15th deadline I will be working on preparing and Filing Tax EXTENSIONS for
a few of my clients that are waiting way too long to file their tax returns.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

I'd be your best client ever!  I file 1st week of February.  Have done for 40 years with out fail.  You can bank on it.

I was the same way. I want my money back as soon as possible. It is called a tax return.

The only time I waited til the deadline was if I owed tax, which was extremely rare.

My returns were processed quickly this year.  I do not mess around after my paperwork is ready.

Chrissy

I called the accountant over 30 days ago and that was the first he could get me in. Unfortunately we always wind up owing. Then the estimated quarterly's are due, so its always a tough time of year. Being self employed can be a pain.

No sense in loaning your money to the gov't interest free any longer than you have to!

Quote from: Lori Dee on April 09, 2025, 02:53:13 PMI was the same way. I want my money back as soon as possible. It is called a tax return.

The only time I waited til the deadline was if I owed tax, which was extremely rare.

    Today is Good Friday ... Easter Sunday is this weekend 

While it may be fun to have colorful Easter Eggs and cute Bunny Rabbits,
I am fully aware of the real reason for Easter celebrations...
      ... The ultimate sacrifice made out of boundless love
                  (https://i.imgur.com/AIIRRFzm.jpg)

On this Good Friday, may we find strength in the silence, peace in the promise,
and hope demonstrated 3 days later in the resurrection of our Lord.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Christ died for all of us today.  He arose on the Sunday following his death on the cross.

We owe everything to Him.

I am tired of snow!

Chrissy

Update:  May 09, 2025

Spring has definitely "sprung" here where I live....
  Warmer weather, much longer daylight hours, and my outdoor plants are in full bloom.

(https://i.imgur.com/6uHbAXlm.jpg)  (https://i.imgur.com/4r2SiLVm.jpg)  (https://i.imgur.com/W77Uuvum.jpg)

A volcano in Alaska may erupt to spew ashes to Anchorage and perhaps east depending on the wind and how high the ashes spurt.  The volcano is not right near a town.

Nice flowers Danielle.

Chrissy

What is the large pink one (pic 3)? Is that Fuchsia? I love the color. Beautiful pics!

Quote from: Lori Dee on May 10, 2025, 08:49:08 PMWhat is the large pink one (pic 3)? Is that Fuchsia? I love the color. Beautiful pics!

  @Lori Dee
Dear Lori:
Picture #1  is Tulips
Picture #2 and #3 are Rhododendrons

HUGS, Danielle

UPDATE: Sunday, May 25, 2025

The "unofficial" start of the Summer Season in the USA is right now at the end
of May, the Memorial Day holiday long weekend.

Note:  Officially, Summer season begins with the solstice on Friday, June 20, 2025,
marking the astronomical first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.

The June solstice marks the official beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere,
occurring when Earth arrives at the point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its
maximum tilt (about 23.5 degrees) toward the Sun, resulting in the longest day and
shortest night of the calendar year.

In the Southern Hemisphere, it's the opposite: the June solstice marks the astronomical
start of winter when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky... the June solstice results in
the shortest day of the year.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Here in the far North in Alaska where I live, the days are now getting very long,
up to 22 hours of the Sun above the horizon ....  and the nights become very short, no more
than 2 hours of the Sun below the horizon.
It never really gets dark, just dusk or twilight as the Sun just barely dips below the
horizon and shortly rises again.

I love the change of seasons and I especially like the long summer days that allow for many
hours of outside activities and then the long winter nights provide a spectacular and bright
view of the stars and the frequent colorful and brilliant displays of the  Aurora Borealis
(also known as the Northern Lights) which are very high overhead in the sky.
I am several miles from a very small town so light pollution is not a factor.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Late June and early July long days and very short nights where I live way up North.

This photo was taken at MIDNIGHT where I live.... at this time of year never gets 
really dark, just twilight or dusk as the Sun barely dips below the horizon and then
rises again an hour or so later.
        (https://i.imgur.com/8wm9fivl.jpg)

                In the winter time in December the opposite is true.

What a beautiful view!

Well... when you can see it.  ;D

Absolutely stunning.

Lovely my dear.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on July 15, 2025, 09:58:58 PMLate June and early July long days and very short nights where I live way up North.

This photo was taken at MIDNIGHT where I live.... at this time of year never gets 
really dark, just twilight or dusk as the Sun barely dips below the horizon and then
rises again an hour or so later.
        (https://i.imgur.com/8wm9fivl.jpg)

                In the winter time in December the opposite is true.

I love this, Danielle. 😍

The scenery and interior look absolutely beautiful, so cozy and comforting.

Hmm, is that the fireplace on the right side of the photo?

I imagine that's where you do your journaling on those cold winter nights?

~ Lilis 🌷

Great photo, Danielle! I felt like I was standing in your living room and gazing out the window at a world formed from peace and tranquility.

Wonderful Danielle - I feel tranquility just looking at this.

Thanks for sharing, 🩷

Mandy

For all that abhorrent sunlight... the winter months where you live must be absolutely magical. I am sorry I haven't been to your blog in a while, Danielle. The truth is I am extremely envious of where you live, lol. Even though most of the UK is on the same kind of latitude as Alaska, geographically speaking, we have the annoying North Atlantic current keeping us warmer than we should be. We don't have the amazing place you have there. Which makes me sad!

I would move there if I could. Only for the Autumn and Winter months, though. <3 Almost perpetual sunlight would drive me bonkers.

You live in a very, very special place. But then you're a very, very special person so that stands to reason. :)

Stunning photo Danielle!!!!

UPDATE: Thursday, August 02, 2025

How are all of my Forum friends holding up with the HOT TEMPERATURES in many parts of the county???
Stay cool if you can.

Not a problem where I live, the low early this morning was 47 deg (f) and late this afternoon
the high was 61 deg(f) .... partly cloudy.

No Air Conditioning needed.  :)

    TONIGHT:  Sunset  11:03 pm
    TOMORROW: Sunrise  4:51 am

HUGS, Danielle

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on August 07, 2025, 10:17:40 PMTONIGHT:  Sunset  11:03 pm
    TOMORROW: Sunrise  11:04 pm

I think you made a typo. I fixed it for you.  ;D
 

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on August 07, 2025, 10:17:40 PMUPDATE: Thursday, August 02, 2025

How are all of my Forum friends holding up with the HOT TEMPERATURES in many parts of the county???
Stay cool if you can.

Not a problem where I live, the low early this morning was 47 deg (f) and late this afternoon
the high was 61 deg(f) .... partly cloudy.

No Air Conditioning needed.  :)

    TONIGHT:  Sunset  11:03 pm
    TOMORROW: Sunrise  4:51 am

HUGS, Danielle

Looks like we're just about out of the woods here. It's been stinkin' hot.  :)

Also, do you want me to grab you one of these?  ;D

Quote from: Devlyn on Today at 06:34:43 AMAlso, do you want me to grab you one of these?  ;D

Great shot Devlyn, and a beautiful smile. 💓

I love the hair, the shirt, and the pink cup.


- Lilis 🌷

Quote from: Lilis on Today at 08:39:02 AMGreat shot Devlyn, and a beautiful smile. 💓

I love the hair, the shirt, and the pink cup.


- Lilis 🌷

Awwww, thanks!  :)

Nothing like a "Birds of the UK" shirt when you want to blend in as an American in Barcelona.  :laugh:

Hugs, Devlyn

@Devlyn   cc: @Lilis
Dear Devlyn:
I am glad that the temperatures are starting to cool down for you.
Thank you Devlyn for sharing your picture...
    I would think that visiting the Moco Museum in Barcelona was very interesting.
                https://www.mocomuseum.com/barcelona/

Yes, I really liked the  Pink Cup  and your  "birds" shirt. 

When I get my coffee at the next door coffee shop to my office, the Barista always
puts a PINK LID on the cup...
             Below is the story:
    https://www.susans.org/index.php/topic,236395.msg2132718.html#msg2132718
7+ years ago, when I first started my business there
she had ordered the pink lids just for me... I was the very first transwoman she
had ever met. 
      (https://i.imgur.com/HWBM1skt.jpg)

Regarding PINK CUPS and many things that are pink, I try to collect as many
as I can.

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Devlyn on Today at 06:34:43 AMAlso, do you want me to grab you one of these?  ;D

It was interesting. They were featuring the rise of street artists and their influence on society.

Hugs, Devlyn