Shut Down Woes

Many folks are in desperate need due to the government shut down. Food assistance is a benefit impacted by the lack of funding being released on time. No paycheck impact is horrific. 

In Vermont it has been reported that by 7 November half the 3Squares aka SNAP benefit will be paid by Vermont to the qualifying Vermonters. The other half from the federal government is reported to be released but I have read no information if or when that may happen.

Note, the Vermont funded deposits, according to an AI information, may take a day or two to be posted on accounts. The banks probably have no information when deposits will be posted.

For general programs’ information call:

211 

Nationwide,  211 is a United Way funded number to call for information on the various programs available. 

Day 311 of Week 45 November 2025

Gracious, seeing this is day 311 shivers the thought 2025 is nearly over. 

There are 54 days left before January 2026!

Why the passage of time is so woven into life, methinks, is due to foraging food and growing crops. The ancient gardener in us continues on. It is stronger than the pull of any holiday. 

Speaking of seasons. This autumn I notice there are 2 peak foliage episodes here in northern New England. The 1st is in the high elevation mountains. The 2nd is at the lower elevation Champlain Valley floor. Fall is at peak beauty out my door. The gorgeous color of gold against dark tree bark is stunning. Also, fall feels longer down here than in the mountains. 

Now is the opening of bird feeder season. I deliberately did not look at the prices of the larger bags of seed so as to not hurt my feelings. The smaller bag prices are kinder. 

                  Have a Kindness Filled Weekend!

November Photograph

Branches always have stories to tell.

Thoughts On Napping

First thing Monday morning this week, I had a cataract removal procedure done on one eye. The rest of the day all I wanted to do was nap. I think that is a normal reaction to the release of stress. I had one short nap. 

The next day, I was keen on having a nap after my yearly doctor’s exam. Alas, I had a surgery follow up appointment that afternoon. But, I fit in another short nap anyway.

At 3 AM EDT Wednesday, guess who is still awake. 😂

I’m just starting to yawn. 

Later today, there will be no napping. 

Reflection Monday November 2025

Everything you say, do, identify with and belong to is free range under authoritarian rule. You think you are safe because you aren’t high profile, think again. 

There are people going without in real time today, no paycheck, no food assistance because of the actions of one group led by guess who. People suffering while a ballroom is in construction is the news we hear. 

Reflect on that, especially the people who voted for that kind of leadership.