Tuesday, April 11, 2006

Yesterday Lynn called Barb.  They had a bad weekend.  Bob's heart acted up & spent a nite in the hospital.  He has to take high blood pressure meds.  During the nite, their phone rang. Lynn wondered if something happened to her parents.  It was Scott calling from his room saying he didn't feel good.  She got him to the bathroom but he upchucked on the bathroom floor.  They had to remove the rug & clean the floor but it still smelled.  He did go to school even tho he still didn't feel good.  So he skipped track practice.  Lynn told him Marisa could pick him up after school.  "No, said Scott."  I ant Barb to take me home."  So she helped him study for a test.  Today there is an away track meet but he didn't go -- he is afraid to ride a bus.

Dale said by fixing his Monte Carlo, he gave himself a birthday present.  I'm making a sweet German choc. cake, his choice, for his birthday.

Enjoyed reading your letter & hearing all about Disney World. I know it isn't the place for me -- too much walking, too many people.  It is for younger people.  I'm content where I am.

This A.M. I  washed the kitchen floor & dusted downstairs.  After lunch we got groceries.

The Mets play at Wash. & it is an aft. game.  I'm trying to see the score but the commercials interfere.  Mets 7, wn. 1, final.  The Mets are winning!

Today the new neighbors (Carey) started in on fixing up the landscaping.  All the trees (shrubbery) have been taken out.  They are starting from scratch.  By our property, it will be lawn.  It looks nice with those hemlocks taken down.  We're anxious to see how they'll landscape it.  Bet it will cost plenty.  He has a 6 figure salary, I'm sure.

I got a turkey breast for Easter.  Lar & Kim will be here.  Might try a cheesecake recipe for dessert.

Last Sun. I called Gen.  She said she saw me in church a few Sun. ago.  I said it must be someone who looks like me.  Then she wondered why I didn't come over.  I said I"m too far away for a drop in visit.  She thought I was in the area.

Barb got her bicycle "tuned up".  So now she is ready to start bike riding.  Lately she has been walking outside.  Yesterday we had blue, blue skies & warm temps.  Even warmer today but cloudy skies.  Nice.

Larry has started his "2nd job", working for himself.  He usually has a couple of big jobs he plans for over the winter.  He does OK as he has regular customers for trimming, etc.

Thurs. evening the 13th

WE had a nice birthday dinner.  He likes the pants & knit shirt I got him.  He tried them on & they fit perfectly.  I asked him not to wait too long to try them on in case I had to return them. Barb gave him a CD & a Dale Earnhardt shirt.  Kim & Lar gave him an auto washing kit.  Lar got one for himself & tho't Dale would like it as much as Lar does.  I'm sure he thanked you for your gift when you called him on Mon.  Next birthday Barb -- she told me I could give her money -- then she can get what she likes.

No school Wed-Mon -- 12th-17th.  East vacation.

Yesterday Kim, Betsy, & Michelle went to the Indian Casino.  Michelle won $1000.00 on the 5 cent machine.  They always divide their winnings.  Kim gave some of hers to the Cancer Society.  Today they went to Erie & Kim spent her Christmas gift card from you folks.

Mets won again today.  WOW!!  Now they go to Milwaukee.  Barb went online & got the Mets TV schedule for 2006 on SB11.  Channel 15 for us.

Collins' house has a "sold" sign on the For Sale sign.   On Conewango between 3rd & Verbeck.  Lar said Patterson's house up the st. will be going up for sale.  He is the funeral director.  They will be moving to one of the Carolinas, to be closer to their 2 daughters.

Marisa's "naughty" boyfriend stole $35,000 so he is really in trouble now.  She still doesn't want to let go of him but Lynn hopes this will be the end of it.  She will never change him.

Sheila & Sue added another girl to their salon, so now there are 4 gals plus 1 part time. They don't want to get too big but if they have a following that will make it nice.

I'm watching Phillies at Atlanta.  Phillies won last nite (so did the Pirates who came from behind vs. L.A.) & are ahead tonite.  I'm sure they miss their pitcher coach Leo Muscilli (sp) who went to Baltimore.  Mets to go Atlanta Sat & Sun Apr 29 &30.  The Mets should do better (I hope) this year.  Atlanta just has "regular" pitching now.

Soon my bedtime.

Friday, April 1, 2005

I'm starting early this week -- I have something to write about.

Millie's birthday is Apr. 17 & she will be 90.  I think it would be nice for you to send her a card.

We went to the Mall today & I was successful.  Seeing Millie will be 90, I want to get her a gift.  I got pearl earrings with gold trim & a necklace.  It has a small pearl bead, a 1 1/2" of gold chain.  Tried them on & I like them a lot & I'm sure she will.  Then I got Dale a darker tan pants & a nice shirt to go with them.  It is a flax & cotton materiel (light green).  All purchases on sale plus 15% coupon.

Last nite Barb was showing Kim the swim suit she wants from the L.L. Bean catalog.  Lar said there's a shirt I like & I was glad to know that.  Barb called the order in so my shopping is just about complete.

Then I stopped at Arby's for our supper.  2 for Dale & 1 for me.  Barb doesn't eat them.  I'm fixing oven fries for Dale & a salad.  He was late coming home so I ate early.  Still have the dishes to do.

I sure enjoy the pictures you add to your letters.  It's surprising how much houses are getting in your area.  And they are small.  How do people do it.  I've heard about the Macaroni Grill but I don't think there are any around here.

Sat. A.M. Apr 2

I've had a busy A.M.  After reading the paper I made choc. chip, peanut butter & oats dough. Put it in the fridge & started banana bread.  While it was baking I washed dishes, then went upstairs to get dressed & make my bed.  When the ban. bread was almost done, I put the cookie dough on baking sheets.  Made only 1/2 recipe, about 2 doz.  I don't like them after 2 days & Barb & Dale don't think to eat them altho they are in plain sight.  Then I tho't a pumpkin pie would taste good.  After I cleaned up, a cup of coffee & 2 cookies tasted good.

Barb is up & making blueberry pancakes for her breakfast.

Barb's treadmill sounded funny to her eats so a repair man from Sears came yesterday aft. He said nothing was wrong.  He calibrated it, etc.  Barb wanted it looked at while under warranty.

In Wegman's Sat. ads they have a recipe that sounds interesting to me.  Chicken Parmasan with broccoli.  Brown chicken.  Put in dish.  Drizzle with marinara sauce & sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.  Bake in 350 oven 10 min til cheese melts & sauce is heated.  Serve with penne pasta & broccoli florets.  Cook them & then combine olive oil, butter & garlic. Heat on low to melt butter.  Cook garlic 1 min stirring.  Add broc & cooked pasta.  Keep warm while preparing chicken.  I'll try it on a Thurs. nite when Lar & Kim come.  It will be a change from potatoes.  I might even use garlic, keeping some broc. & pasta out for me. Others like garlic.

Later in the aft.  Had myself a little nap.

Have to catch up because we lose an hour tonite.  DST.

Baseball starts this week & there will be many games to watch thanks to ESPN & II.  I'm ready to watch.

I have the same feeling that it would be nice to be closer so we could get together more often.  But that's life.

Was going to watch Busch racing but it's raining in Bristol, Tenn.  Then gold will be on & they've missed 2 days because of rain.  Today is suppose to be very windy.  Next week is the big one, The Masters, in Atlanta.  It is a beautiful golf course.

Sun. pm

Dale looked out the window & said "it's insanity", meaning the snow coming down.  Erie has 12" of snow & some areas have no electricity.  Heavy snow on the lines.

I wore boots this AM as I walked to church & was surprised to see more people in church than I thought would be there.  Buffalo area has a foot of snow.

Barb wonders if you'll see the movie "The Upside of Anger" with Kevin Costner.  She read a review of it & knows Kevin C. is one of JoAnna's favorites.  A good review.

Dale had a headache on Sat.  I woke up at 2:30 AM to go to the bathroom & noticed the hall light was still on.  I had to check & found Dale on the davenport holding a bag of ice on his head.  Now I could go back to bed & sleep, altho it took awhile to fall asleep.  A mother is always or should I say parent, is always concerned for their children regardless of age. What I don't know doesn't hurt me, but with Barb & Dale at home I get concerned.  I don't like the word "worry".  It's not part of my vocabulary.

Tues. the 4th

Barb & I went to Jamestown this aft.  Barb got pj's & a birthday shirt for Dale.  I didn't get anything except groceries at Wegman's.  We'll celebrate Dale's birthday on Thurs. & he chose teak & choc. birthday cake.  I asked about potatoes & he said pot. salad would be OK.  We had baked pot. last week & mostly we have mashed pot. so I tho't a change would be good.

The Braves played at the Marlins this aft. & was I happy.  The Marlins were leading 9-0 the last I saw & it's over so I didn't get the final score.  Smoltz started & lasted 1 2/3 innings. They got a grand slam off of him in the 1st inning.  The Marlins are my 2nd team if the Mets fail.  Yesterday Pedro pitched so good after the 1st inning & had 11 strikeouts, I think.  But the closer gave up 2 home runs & they lost.  I was so disappointed.  The Mets are at Atlanta this Fri. nite.  Barb said I shouldn't be so happy when the Braves get beat because the Braves are Andy's team.  That doesn't count.  He has his team & I have mine & may the best team win.  They talked today how many division titles the Braves have won & of course I can't remember the number.  I think they only won the World Series once & that's the important one.

Wed. the 6th

Gen called last Sat.  She had called Millie & found out she had been in the hospital.  I called the first of the week & there was no answer.  I tried tonite & got her.  She has low thyroid & potassium & not enough salt.  She was back in the hosp & had intravenous feeding.  She is better now.  She wasn't taking her thyroid meds, & she said she learned her lesson.  She still has a poor appetite but it's improving.   I've taken potassium pills for a long time.  With some meds you need it as they can drain your system.  If the Dr. prescribes meds I take them.  He knows more than I do.  Millie will be OK for her birthday.  Due to conflicts the family won't celebrate it until the 30th.  There will be 14 of them to help her celebrate.  All 4 of us had or have thyroid problems.  Only mine is overactive.

Thurs. the 7th

We had a nice dinner & Dale enjoyed an early birthday.

John called tonite to tell us about Millie.  I told him I had talked to her last nite.  I heard he had a girlfriend so I asked about it.  Is it serious?  Is there a wedding in the future?  He didn't commit himself.  But they took a trip to Aruba so that sounds serious.  I told him I was happy for him.  He has a lot of responsibility on his plate with Gen.

I'm watching the Braves vs. the Marlins.  The Mets go to Atlanta tomorrow.  Sure hope they start winning.  A bad start for Willie Randolph.  He's a good guy.

They said we reached 80 yesterday.  Different today, but the next 5 days should be sunny.

Tuesday, April 13, 2004

The start of the letter will be about Dale.  Last Sat. he spent his birthday washing the upstairs bathroom floor -- with a brush no less.  Also the edging (whatever you call it) so when I cleaned on Mon. I didn't have to do the floor.  On Sun. he decided to dress up seeing we were celebrating his birthday   He looked so nice in brown pants & a small size plaid shirt that went with the pants.  He looked so nice.  The steaks were good & the potato salad was excellent.  A nice change.  Between the main meal & dessert we had a time out so we could watch teh last 2 holes of golf to see Michelson win a big one.  When he made the putt, Kim & Barb started a noisy celebration & Torey didn't know what was going on & started barking. It was quite noisy.  I'd say they were very happy Phil finally won a big one.

Yesterday the phone rang -- it was Bert's alarm system calling -- a problem at the house & they needed to get in the house.  Bert had gone out to lunch & left a pan of eggs boiling on the stove; they boiled dry & it must have set off the alarm system.  When Barb got there, fire truck & policemen were there ready to break in the door.  Barb had a key so saved the door.  No harm done but a terrible smell in the house.  The firemen went down to the basement and found a mess -- a pipe had broken so  she had to call the plumber.  So there was some good when they found the broken pipe.  Barb goes into the basement hardly at all. It's dark & not very clean.  Bert has become very dependent on Barb.  It's good she has someone who cares.

Easter Sun. showed an increased in attendance at church.  It was a nice service.

This is Dale's late nite & he should be home.  I have potatoes in the oven so I hope he'll soon come.

Millie wrote they have a large library at the retirement center & she is reading one of Elliot Roosevelt's mysteries.  Also on Fri they have a wine & cheese party.  They were suspended during Lent but will start again.

Wed the 14th

Tomorrow is the 15th.  Is your tax form ready.  You sometimes write you've been working on it.

Barb was telling about a boy in Scott's 5th grade class.  Lynn said the father was very wild in his youth, so now he keeps a tight rein on his son.  He is a trouble maker, then starts to cry & blame the other person.  Scott's friend had a fight with this kid & the parents did call the police.  He (friend) lost it again & his parents took away his TV privileges.  Barb mentioned he got a girl in trouble -- it's hard for kids to keep their temper or tongue -- then the kid cries, etc.  He won't have many friends.  His dad picks him up after school.  He doesn't wait in the car but meets him at Beaty.  If he gets in trouble the parents will wonder why & they are the cause!

Lar & Kim have gone, the kitchen is in order & I'm watching the Mets vs. Braves.  It was lucky the teams had Tues. off as it rained all day.  It cleared so they could play last nite, but it wasn't on TBS.

I got Sara Paretksy's Ghost Country but I couldn't get interested in it, so I gave it up.

Not much happening around here, so I'll bring this to a close.

Sunday, April 6, 2003

Patty's husband's funeral was this aft. at 4pm, preceded by a 2-hour visitation.  I went over shortly after 2pm  so I could see the end of the Mets game, which they lost in the 9th inning. Patty is taking the death very well but it must be very hard on her.  The son Chipper was able to get leave from the Army.

The Mets won 2 out of 3 games with Montreal.  David Cone started the first game & he was so good.  Tom Gladden pitched yesterday & it wasn't hard to root for him & appreciate his work. He looks good in a Met uniform!  Opening day wasn't good for him but he made up for it yesterday.

This A.M. they announced the Call Committee will meet with the candidate on Sat.  Hope it all works out.

This will be a busy week with outside activities.  I don't want to miss the Bible Study Tues. A.M. to see if anything is said about the candidate.  Tues. aft. I get a "perm" at 2 pm  So Mon. I'll do my Tues work -- the bathroom mainly -- & we'll get groceries in the aft.

Last Fri. we went to -- no we didn't we went on Wed. & I already covered that.

We'll celebrate Dale's birthday on Thurs & he wants steak, baked pot, tossed salad & apple pie.  Easier to fix a meal then to find gifts for him.

Mr. Carey called Larry -- they'll be home in a couple of weeks.  He said he'd never live in Fla. year round.  The retirees go to dinner at 4:30 p, & take home doggy bags & that's not for them.  They'll look in Buffalo for a home & Susan also plans to move there.

Enjoyed your letter.  Nice that you were able to be with Roland & Linda.  It is hard to understand Eric & his college studies.  I would think that by now he'd be concerned for his future.  I hope that Lindsay is making passing grades. I wasn't too surprised about Carolyn & Jim & their finances.  I just know I never could have liked like that.  I can enjoy my retirement -- only wish Dad could have lived longer.  Too bad Carolyn didn't get into school teaching -- she trained for it in college.  I can't understand any husband spending all his money & not investing anything for the future.

Mon. Apr. 7

School was called off today due to the weather & Tues. doesn't sound much better   They get 6 days off over Easter & parents have planned trips.  Lynn & family plan to go to Fla, taking 3 extra days.  I wonder how Central Office will make up this snow day.  We got groceries this A.M.  I'm making soup for supper -- a good winter meal! - and a banana cream pie.  It is cold as well, weatherwise.

Tues. A.M. 8th

Decided not to go to church this A.M.  Decided to be lazy & take it easy.  We didn't get the brunt of the storm & the sidewalks are clear for when I walk to the beauty shop.  As soon as Dale left for work, I made a batch of the choc. cookies for a treat for the "girls" & Jerry at the beauty shop.  They like my treats.

No school yesterday cut off the last day of the Easter break.  Lynn's family will still be gone 11 days.  Barb will sit the 2 cats & the dog at Lynn's & will do some housecleaning while they are gone.  She will sleep there.  They also have a fish tank.

My perm came out nice. Good to have curl again.

One Thurs. nite over dinner Kim was amazed at what Lar & Dale know about world events, places, etc.  They both read papers & you learn a lot from the History Channel that they both like.  Another time we were talking about writing & Kim wondered if writing was part of Dale's job.  It is -- he has to write up what he does for a job.  I'm sure people don't realize how much writing is included in most every job today.

Thurs A. M.

I made Dale's birthday apple pie right after breakfast.  And it's a beautiful sunny day with blue skies & warming up.  Who could ask for more -- me that it will stay this way & let us experience spring.

Bert got a carbon dioxide monitor & Barb bro't it home to test our house.  The first time she plugged it in it made a screeching noise & she was sure gas was leaking.  Dale told her gas contain carbon dioxide.  She didn't believe him & she called the gas co & they told her the same thing.  When I came home on Tues. she was here & said "I have a surprise".  She had the monitor in the plug & no noise.  She figures she didn't keep it in long enough because with that noise, I said turn it off.   She can make mountains out of molehills. Both our furnace & stove are not that old.

It's 10 A.M. & Barb is still here.  I need to finish a letter to Millie as her birthday is the 17th.

I'm enclosing an article that I enjoyed reading -- maybe you will.

Wednesday, April 10, 2002

Here it is Wed. the 10th & I'm just starting a letter & no excuses. Just lazy.

Tues A.M. I got the bathroom cleaned & clean sheets for my bed before I went to an 11 AM study at church.  We're meeting twice a month now.

We'll celebrate Dale's birthday tomorrow when Lar & Kim come.  But I wanted something different tonite so ordered pizza & Pzone.  Got a classic Pzone & we all sampled it.  I liked it.

After lunch today I walked over town to get some birthday wrapping paper.  I sent to Penneys for Dockers pants & a belt for Dale.  Khaki in 34-36 & a brown belt.  Barb go him a shirt.  Dale checked the pants in the catalog & okayed them.  He chose shrimp fettuccine for his birthday dinner & apple pie for dessert.

Stopped at the library & got 2 books.  Another one by Sandra Brown, The Witness & The Upstart by Catherine Cookson.  It was a beautiful day for a walk.

Watched the Mets defeat Chicago this aft. on ESPN.  Successive homeruns by Alomar & Pizzata Piazza, whose name I should know how to spell!

With all the mistakes it doesn't take long to forget how to write.

As I said on the phone, Sheila loved the leather coat & it fit her so well.  I know she appreciates it so I was glad to give it to her.

Dale saw that the grass in the back yard is ready to be cut.  We had a nice rain yesterday.  Dale is sharpening the blades of the lawn mower so it will be ready to cut the lawn.

This week we'll be watching the Masters this weekend.  It's a beautiful golf course & we'll see if Tiger Woods will play a good game.  The USA Today shows a picture of his new Swedish girlfriend.  A cutie.  Was a nanny for Jasper Parnevik.

It's 10:30 AM Thurs. & I have to brag a bit -- after all I'm 81 years old.  I made the apple pie first this A.M. & I hope it tastes as good as it looks.  Then I showered, got dressed, made my bed, put out the garbage.  Started dinner rolls, then had my coffee & a roll.  Finished my rolls & remembered I meant to make choc. chip PB cookies so I got them made & now I'm sampling one with coffee.  Just 1 pan to wash & then I'm thru.  So I think I have a right to brag!!  Also did a load of wash.

Last nite I stayed up past my bedtime to see the Phillies beat the Braves.  In teh 11th inning with a home run.  Phillies tied it up in the 9th with a home run off Smoltz.  You can be sure I was happy!  And Toronto best the Yankees.  Former Met Venture struck out.

Think I'll mail my letters on Fri. instead of by Wed.

Sunday, April 16, 2000

Since I wake up early, I chose to go to First Luth. at 8 A.M.  Our service at St. Paul's, with First Luth., was at 11 A.M. & that would be a longer service with extra music, etc.  Besides Pastor Risher, I was the only one from St. Paul, but I know many from First so it wasn't that strange.  I was home a little after 9 AM & then made breakfast.  It's a lovely day.

We had a nice time last nite with Lar & Kim.  We were able to sit on the deck for awhile but had dinner inside.  Kim bo't a birthday cake fro Bi Lo -- they have a good bakery.  It's been a time of celebration -- Mon. eating out; Thurs. birthday cake (left over) for Dale & Dale got to open Lar & Kim's gift & y our gift that arrived on Thurs.  He likes the #3 sweatshirt.  He says thanks to you all.  Barb will open her gifts on Thurs.  A fun time.

I asked Kim about "On the Record".  She said they are fined for punishment.  Today kids (certain ones) have no respect for anyone & don't want to be told "Don't do that", or "Don't curse me" & the officials say the teachers don't have to take anything from the kids.  It's gotten bad -- the next will be hitting, etc.

Last nite Kim told us of 5 7th grade girls who came to a dance.  It was from 9-11:30 followed by a "lock in", otherwise known as a sleepover.  Shortly after the dance started, 1 of the girls said to Kim I have to leave -- my mother is picking me up.  Kim said -- you know once you are here you can't leave (some came only for the dance).  She went back to the other girls & she could see them plotting.  Shortly after another came with the same plea.  They must have wanted to meet some boys.  The 1st girl came up again -- Kim was disgusted & decided to call the girl's parents.  The girl didn't know her telephone number!  Kim had it on the permission slips.  In the meantime the 1st girl's mother came & started screaming & swearing at the girl -- she was grounded & sneaked out. So now she's grounded for 6 weeks.  By the time these girls are 10th graders, they'll be something else.  No one slept during the lock in -- played basketball or other games, watched TV, etc. At 5 A.M. 2 boys tried to sleep as Sat. was the 1st day of trout season & they were going fishing & figured they should sleep a couple hours.

I haven't started any spring cleaning.  USA Today had an article on spring cleaning & how many find it hard to do it.  Even I don't wash the kitchen floor every week.  I spot clean it & give it a good wash every 3 weeks.  I'm lucky Barb & Dale take care of their rooms & Dale vacuums the stairs & L. R. weekly.  The house looks OK as long as I keep it picked up & see that things are in order.  That is fine for me.

Mon the 17th.  Was up at 6 A.M. & after I ate breakfast I started on my chores.  Stripped Dale's bed & then mine.  Both are made.  Washed a load & part of it is in the dryer.  Cleaned the little bathroom in the basement & the shower.  Had done either for awhile.  Dale is good to keep it up but was in the mood to clean them.

Dale has 2 walls painted -- the draperies were taken down so they are washed & set to hang.  The frame of the windows are varnished wood.  Wrong adj. as they don't varnish anymore & I can't get teh correct term.  If he wants them hung up he'll have to move the bed so I can clean them. No heavy moving for me anymore.  I'll ask him at lunch.  Maybe your letter about housecleaning got me in the mood to clean.

Today it is suppose to rain -- we've had a lot of rain.  The dam is a little above summer level.  We had a nice weekend.  If you did, I bet you worked outside.

Last Sat. the 15th Paula Carey was suppose to move their stuff from Carey's garage -- they have their house in Buffalo now.  T hey changed it to Good Fri. & Lar can't help them.  Mike Brindis can help but not much due to his heart.  Can't lift.  And Dale can't help as he works.  And they have a piano to move onto a truck.  Paul will find out the world doesn't stop for her.  Lar has to go to Erie Fri. aft. to pick up something for his work.

Have a bill to mail so will get this ready to mail.  Happy Easter to all.

Sunday, April 9, 2000

Just finished a good book by Nora Roberts.  Now I'll start a letter & I should start writing notes on Easter cards to my sisters & in laws.

Tomorrow is Dale's birthday & we are going out to eat at Holiday Inn.  We like that best.  We haven't eaten out for awhile so this will be a nice celebration.  Kim spoke of us coming to the camp Sat the 15th to celebrate Dale & Barb's birthdays. Dale buys what he wants -- coins, tools, etc. so I got him light colored pants & underwear.  Not very exciting but he's hard to buy for.  Barb got him a nice knit shirt -- light blue.

When we went to Erie Barb didn't find anything she wnated.  She saw a skirt she liked in L. L. Bean catalogue & ordered it.  Dark khaki & she was pleased with it & said she'd like the light tan shade so I ordered it for her birthday.  They are the shorter skirts.

Millie will be 85 the 17 of Apr.

Tues/10th.  The 5 of us had a nice dinner at the Holiday Inn last nite.  Good food -- even a little birthday cake for Dale.  Quite busy for a Mon. nite.  Seems to be busy with overnite guests, etc.  Lar & Kim didn't come over after as they had to walk the neighbor's dog.  They were to be home late Mon. nite.

Got your letter.  Enjoyed the trip synopsis so much.  You covered a lot of ground & saw a lot of things.  Makes for good memories for the boys.  Glad I don't have your credit card to lok forward to.  Warren & Anna are still paying on 2 trips to an island.  I can't remember the name of it.  They didn't go this year.  The Benson's, Decker's & Schaffers are all going to Germany this year to see The Passion Play.  Benson's are taking their granddaughter who graduated from Kane Hi this June.  None of them are going at the same time.

Today Barb helped an older woman who is a friend of Bert's.  She said it was the messiest & dirtiest ever.  And they have money.  Ragged kitchen curtains & she asked Barb to make new ones for Sat - they're having company.  The worst dish cloth ever.  They are retired & the husband is around & wants to tell Barb how to do things.

Barb bot roller blades so she & Scott can roller blade after school.  That might make it easier for Barb to be with him. Today a friend was coming with him after school.  So Barb will have 2 of them til 4:45.  She worked 4 1/2 hrs. this A.M. & tonite we get groceries.  Maybe she'd prefer to wait til tomorrow.

Dale likes his pants.  He's spent a lot of money on tools.  Yesterday he said he should be thinking of getting some more clothes.  He liked the shirt Barb gave him.  It surprised me to hear him talk about shopping for clothes.  He has uniforms for work so that's no problem.

This is Dale's early week & I'm ready to work but first plan to walk & mail letters (Millie's card) first & will bring this to an end.  Have to wash the kit. floor today.

Friday, April 9, 1999

It's a rainy A.M. but the grass is getting greener.  I've a load in the washer & then towels to do.  Not as much washing now.

Tues. the big day.  Dale got me to the hosp. at 6:30.  At 8:30 I was in the operating room.  As I went in, one went out & as I went out, another went in.  Assembly line.  They took my medical history - only a D & C.  The nurse asked "to what do you attribute your good record."  I said "my genes!"  She put the I.V. into a vein in my hand.  Just a little prick.  I wasn't out & could feel nothing so the I.V. took care of that.  I only wanted water afterwards (no eating after midnite on Mon.)  I rested awhile.  Then was able to get dressed & was home by 10 A.M.

I was resting when there was a knock on the door.  It was Warren & Anna Hollertz wanting me to go out to lunch with them at the Peppermill.  They didn't realize this was surgery day.  We decided to eat here - I had pizza in the freezer & Warren went to McDonald's & picked up salad & blueberry muffins.  They were delicious.  The reason they came to Warren was Warren lost a tooth from his plate & wanted it fixed as Sat. they leave for Aruba for a week.  He called St. Mary's but they couldn't do it.  Warren Dental Arts could  We had a nice visit.

Wed. A.M. I had to see the Dr. so he could check it.  Pressure was good, etc.  I have a pair of prescription sun glasses & wore them around the house to shield my eye from the light.  We've had some sunny days.  Last nite I wore my regular glasses & it felt good.  It looks good to me & things are brighter & I can read better.  So all is well.

We celebrated Dale's birthday when Lar & Kim were here.  He decided a 33" waist would be more comfortable so I ordered the lighter blue jeans this time from Penney's to get the 36" length.  We'll have another birthday dinner on Sat. the actual date.  Steaks & baked potatoes.

I forgot to ask Kim if she'd heard from the lab report on her back.  She can't use regular shampoo to wash her hair for awhile.  She uses Dove.  She can't be too active with her arms either.  It was a 2 1/2 hour operation.

We had a card from Mim & Tom with $20.00 memorial to the library.  Betty Casey gave a memorial to the Cancer Assn.

Got your cards.  Kim wonders how you can write that tiny.  I was able able to read it easily .  Sounded like it was a great weekend.

Barb has had a cold but it is improving.

Lar has started his extra work.  Dale has raked the grass & even mowed the back yard as that grows fast.  He is anxious to get his Monte Carlo on the road again.

I'm not doing much this week but next week I should get back to my regular schedule.  I feel so good & am glad it is over with.

We enjoyed our dinner at the Limberlost last Sat.  Lar & Kim took us.  It is under new ownership and the food & atmosphere is just as good as in the past.  Good crowd there.

Next week we're thinking of going to Jamestown & want to have lunch at The Red Lobster.

Time to do some ironing.

Saturday, April 12, 1997

It's a cold rainy day & I had to walk to get my hair done.  It's Dale's Sat. to work & Barb is taking care of Scott while Lynn & Bob are away for the weekend.

Kim talked to Ann Lesser this past week & Ann mentioned the new Lib. director is a man but she didn't say his name.  Ann is thru the end of Apr. & the new dir. comes near the end of May.

I got a book The Cousins by Rona Jaffe but it didn't appeal to me so I didn't finish reading it.  Now I'm reading The Daughter of Cain by Colin Dexter & I'm enjoying it. 

Just wrote a note to Millie who will celebrate her 82nd birthday the 17th.  Millie, Gen, & Edith (Ed's sister) usually go out to lunch at a nice place on birthdays.

Next Tues. I'll be able to watch the Mets on ESPN when they celebrate Jackie Robinson Day.  Baseball has gotten off to a bad start in some areas with all this lousy weather we've been having.  And the Cubs haven't won a game as of the 12th of Apr.  The Mets are a little better!!!  Not much.

Barb didn't look forward to this weekend with Scott.  He is such a rascal.

Thanks for the letter & the pictures.  What a wonderful week you had.  Enjoyed the descriptions of it all & know it was an experience you'll all treasure for a long time.  What a great experience for Andy & Eddie.

I'm watching "The Brian Piccolo Story" & it sure is a touching one.  Because of that I'm not getting much written.

Dale had a nice birthday this past week.  He managed to get home for a 6 pm dinner.  Talk about someone dedicated to his job.  That's about all he does now.  His "summer" car is now being given some repair & a new paint job.  Some of the floor was being eaten away & will be replaced.  At first Dale wondered if it would be worth the money.  But the fellow doing the work said he could do it so Dale agreed.

We are enjoying the Masters Golf on T.V.  I'm hoping Tiger Woods goes all the way.  What a beautiful golf course.

Soon time for lunch.  Barb & Scott just came by.  Will finish later.

Barb said Scott went to be at 9:30 pm and slept thru til 6:30 am.  This A.M. she took Marisa to her cousin's & she'll sleep overnite.  So Barb just has Scott.  She'll be home Sun. aft.

Oh yes, Paula Carey called Fri. to let me know she'll want the house key between 7-8 pm Sun. nite.  She's coming alone, why I don't know, except perhaps he hasn't taken his Pa. law exam.  She starts a new job Mon. A.M. at one of the banks.

Barb & Scott just stopped again.  They went to the Mall to break up the monotony.

Even on Sat. Dale doesn't get home too early & then he's gone to Seaman's to look for car parts.  It's also different with Barb gone & it would be pretty lonesome if we were alone.  So I'm glad Barb & Dale are home with us.

At 2:15 T.B.S comes on with Atlanta vs. Chicago.  I can't stand the Atl. announcers but I'll tone down the audio.  Then golf at 3:30 & that is interesting.  It's time for Chic. to win its first game.  Hope the weather is O.K.

I'm written out.  Things are pretty good with Dad.

P.S.  For Andy & Eddie Cady's store over town sells the Beanie Babies.  They had some this week & sold out fast.  Next time I'll try to get over & get one for each of you.  Any special one you'd like.  Tell your Dad & he can write it in a letter or you can tell me when we talk on the telephone.  Love you, Grandma.

Sunday, April 14, 1996

Thanks for the nice long letter.  Eddie will enjoy Kindergarten & being in school all day just like his big brother.

Dale had a nice birthday & thanks you for the book on NASCAR racing.  We gave him a Monte Carlo model of Dale Earnhardt's #3 car.  Barb gave him a cup with a picture of an older model Plymouth on it.  Kim & Lar gave him a gift certificate.  We know what he like best -- anything with cars.

Scott has been sick with the flu & today Barb doesn't feel so well so is taking it easy.

At church this A.M. the choir anthem material was given by a dear member "in honor of Pastor & Mrs. Carl Nelson".  Hymn of Promise & it was very lovely.  Lar & Kim came to church with me as Carol Anderson (she gave the money for the pieces) called Lar & Kim &^ asked them to come.  Her cousin lives at Crary Home & she has met Lar & Kim.

Think I mentioned the beauty shop moved to the old Betty Lee basement.  Now they have a lot of space & it is fixed up so nice.  A big improvement.  Dad gets his hair cut there once a month.

Joyce O'Connor had a heart attack - was at Hamot in Erie & at Great Lakes Rehab.  She is home now - Barb and I saw her Fri. aft. as we went to the Mall.  She was walking on Verbeck.  She is 70.

We got a bid for vinyl for the house & it is a good bid.  Now we are thinking of vinyl shakes instead of painting the old ones.  Troy will come tomorrow with samples.  Lar thinks we need a new fuse panel that has circuit breakers instead of fuses so we'll see about that.  The reason we're adding things to the bid.

Gen called last week & told about Edna's will.  I was willed about 4000.00 & also the 3 sisters will divide an insurance policy.  Gen tho't my share might be about 13,000.00 all together.   So we'll have extra money to spend.  Gen sent me a form to sign for the ins. policy & then Gen & Millie will take it to Holyoke to have it processed.  She was to be executrix of the will but didn't want the job so Wally's daughter was 2nd in line to do the job.  It takes 6 weeks to get that done & Gen seems to think the bequests should be given soon.  I wondered if it would take a year.

Edna also left a 1000.00 policy with Barbara as the donee.  That is nice as the Dr. thinks she needs a D&C.  It would cost 1500.00 in the Dr. office so it would go toward that.  She sees the Dr. on the 19th.  If she does too much she starts bleeding.  Tought when you don't have med. insurance.

I also bought the video Babe & Dad & I watched it & enjoyed it.

We have caught 3 mice in the basement.  We've never had mice before & I don't like it.  I got some different traps at KMart.  Glue to make them stick - like the ones Lar bro't over only these are enclosed or covered.  Put them down Fri nite & Sat there were 2 mice in 1 trap.  Didn't catch any in the attic.  They must climb up & down.  I have bird seed in the basement & they found that. 

Guess I've covered all the news from here.  We've had some spring rains so the grass is greener.  Now if only the warm breezes would come.

Monday, April 17, 1995

I'm lazy today & don't feel like doing  much.  Could start spring cleaning but ---!

Thurs. we went to Erie - Kim, who drove, Barb & I & 2 friends of Kim.  We left at 9:45 A.M. & ate lunch as soon as we got there.  Then we had about 2 hours to look around.  They now have Barb's favorite store (where you got the sweatshirt) & we spent some time there.  Barb got a couple of tops & shorts.  They have so many nice things.  We also spent time at T. J. Max & PharMore Drug store.  Latter is where I like to look for things.  We were home about 5 pm./  Rained all the way home.

Barb took Thurs. & Fri. off.  After my hair appt. on Fri. Barb & I went to the Pastry shop for an early lunch & we shopped a bit.

Sun. Lar & Kim were here for a 5 pm Easter & Birthday dinner.  We waited to celebrate Dale's birthday. I'll think you for his card & book.  Both he & Lar enjoyed looking thru it.

About 10 days ago our pastor had a mini stroke & missed Palm Sun services.  The asst. to the Bishop was with us.  Then he was hospitalized due to an extremely high blood pressure count & they also found he has sugar.  He was in church on Sun. & preached but the Bishop's Asst. had the liturgy & communion.  Gary will have to take it easy for awhile.  He is 48, a dangerous age so he's had his warning.

Heard from Gen.  Edith, Edna & Frank would be at Gen's for Easter dinner.  Mon-Wed they have Swedish relatives on Ed's side.  They'll stay with  Edith & be at Ed & Gen's Mon. for dinner.  They'll sightsee, all be at Edith's for Tues. dinner.  Wed. they'll go out to eat & they leave at noon on Thurs.  Because of this visit, Millie's birthday luncheon is delayed.  Edna, Millie, Edith & Gen go out for lunch on each birthday.

Gen wrote Edna saw the eye Dr. & she's had some bleeding on one eye & will have some laser work on it.  I meant to call her last nite but forgot until it was too late.

Frank (cousin) is now at a Jewish home & seems to be doing better as they have more therapy there.  He invited Ed & Gen to a Seder dinner on Good Fri.  A prime rib dinner.  I'm anxious to hear more about it.  It's funny.  Gen is so concerned about Frank's clothes when he has to see a Dr.  She makes sure he should wear slacks, shirt, etc.  She'll wash his shirts if they look dirty.  He usually wears jogging outfits which is best as they are so easy to get on & off.

Ed found a kitten in their barn & fed it milk so now they have a cat.  Gen wrote come & meet her!  She knows I'm not fond of cats.

Gen likes the family picture.  Her's is the first I've heard after sending them.

Are you knee deep in taxes today, or have you already mailed your taxes.  There is a lot of "stuff" on T.V. today concerning late payments, resistors, etc.  Can be interesting to listen to.

There was an interesting cartoon in the paper last week.  It showed a man trying to resist watching baseball on T.V. & he couldn't resist.  I watched a preseason game on Sat:  Braves beat the Yankees & part of the Sun nite game on E.S.P.N.  We're ready to watch WWOR, ESPN, & TBS.  The 26th the Mets play at Colorado & I hope they show a lot of the new stadium - like they did in Toronto.  Part of ESPN's "triple play".  Aft it's the Yankees & late nite a coast game.

Better get busy - put clean clothes away.  Fun to be lazy.

Sunday, April 12, 1992

Did you go to church today & get your palms???

This aft we watched the Mets lose again.  Hope things will change.  I'm ordering their yearbook.  Tonite we're watching Texas at Minn.  Texas has improved.  Their mgr. is a former Met!

Dad saw the Dr. on Fri & Mon. he starts treatments.  It only takes a few moments & he has to have them everyday for a month.

Fri. Dale was 35 yrs old & we went out to dinner at the Holiday Inn.  They serve excellent food & we enjoyed the outing.  They sang Happy Birthday & took a picture with a Polaroid camera & served a small birthday cake.  When we picked up Lar & Kim we went early so we could see the finished addition.  It is so nice.  You'll be surprised at what was accomplished.

JoAnna have you come down to earth yet?  You worked hard for your victory & we are proud of you.  It will be interesting to hear all about it when you are here.

I'm enclosing an article on the situation in Salamanca.  They are also a matriarchal society.  Thought you might be interested in the situation.

Allie Peterson died last week & was buried on Thurs.  Born in 1892.  She was a widow since 1932.  That was a long time.  The pastor also had a funeral earlier in the week for a 4 yr. old boy killed in an auto accident on a snowy nite.  Mother was badly hurt but is improving.  2 broken ankles.

And Cindy Andersen Farnham is dying of cancer.  Could be anytime.  2 daughters - Jenny who is in the 2nd year of college & Christie who is a senior in high school.   It's so sad.  Martha Andersen's daughter.

You should have the pkg. Dad mailed last Sat.  Hope the clothes fit OK.

We had a touch of summer & Dale is driving his El Camino again.  He doesn't drive it in the winter.  Can't be touched with salt.  He is so proud of that car.  It is really cold tonite but I hope we have a nice Easter.

Looking forward to your trip & having you home for awhle.

Did I say Signe & Geo. sold their house & will move in this week even tho the closing (house) won't take place until the 24th.