Thursday, February 2, 2006

It's a nippy morning but the sun is shining & that makes it nice.

Next Sat. I'm fixing the turkey Dale got at Thanksgiving.  We asked Lar & Kim if they wanted to come over if they didn't have other plans.  They will come.

Their group planned a Super Bowl get together but it was called off.  The host is in the Erie hospital with kidney failure.  It happened very fast.  He is Kim's age & they have 2 children, one at Beaty & one at Warren Hi.  It is so sad.

The reason I'm fixing the turkey so it will be an easy Sun. in preparation for the Super Bowl. I hope the Steelers can win.

Don't think I told you about Dale needing new work shoes.  He went to Valone's but he didn't want to pay $165.00 for them.  He got a cheap pair at KMart & wore them 1 day before going back to his old ones.  Randy Swanson told him about a place near Sugar Grove.  Instead of turning to go to the race track, he went in the opposite direction.  He almost missed it as it is a very small building owned by an Amish man.  He got his shoes, a good pair, for less than $100.00 He likes them.  This man also resoles shoes.  He had a nice visit with this man, who moved here from Va.

Marisa left for Fla. yesterday.  They hope this change of environment will make a difference in her life.  She is a screamer, screaming at Scott & telling him he is dumb, & he doesn't need that.

You'll read in the paper that there was another drug bust in Warren. Also the 5th Ave. bridge will close around Mar. 1 in preparation for a new bridge.  Barb likes to use that bridge but Dale refuses to go over it.  He doesn't like it.

In this A.M. paper there was an interesting article concerning the 70's Steelers when they won 4 Super Bowls.  A few have died & it listed all the players & their jobs now.  Many stayed in the Pittsburgh area.  Lynn Swann is running for G,O.P. Governor in the next election & they think he'll get the nomination.

Betty Casey showed me a letter Mike got concerning the committee he's on concerning Special Ed.  Naturally she was is proud of her children.  She took care of Janie & Cindy, her sisters' girls, at lot & when the 2 groups of kids went to the playground, kids would taunt "Here come the retards".  Janie & Cindy were the slow ones.  Being in the service enabled Mike to get an education & make something of himself.

We sure enjoyed the Robert Montgomery films during Feb.  This A.M. I wanted The Thin Man, a cute story.



Fri. Feb 3rd

I'm having my aft. coffee 1/2 hr. late (3:30 pm).  Just got off the phone after talking to Alice Nasman.  She called to ask if I know Tiger was playing golf in Dublin.  I did but didn't remember to turn the Golf Channel on at 9 A.M.  That led to other subjects & kept on for 1/2 hr.

I'm reading with great interest all the writings on the Steeler players.  There is plenty of coverage & hype.

Larry & Kim will come over Sat. nite.  They had no other plans.

I fixed a crock pot meal for tonite. Last time I made one Dale said "Why don't you add potatoes & veggies next time."  So I did & it smells so good.  Beef.

I'm enclosing a dessert that sounds good to me.  And it sounds easy for a cheesecake recipe.  Been wanting to try making one but none every appealed to me as this one does.


This A.M. I watched "The Bishop's Wife" with David Niven, Cary Grant & Loretta Young. Enjoyed it.  The other nite watched a Barbara Stanwyck & Gary Cooper but didn't see it from the beginning & never got the title.  It was so cute.

The puzzle isn't getting attention these days.  The easy parts are finish & the harder parts are harder to find & fit together.  Barb adds some to help em.
     
Not much going on here.  But the light is staying longer -- longer days -- and that is nice.

Thanks for the salmon recipe.  Fish isn't a favorite for Dale.  Barb fixes salmon once in awhile.

Thursday, January 26, 2006

61 years ago Dad & I were married on a cold, foggy night.  61 sounds like so many years but it seems like yesterday.  Lots of pleasant memories.

John called the other nite -- he had good news.  John & Fe will have a son or daughter later this summer.  They are very happy.

I called Millie & John had called her.  In our conversation Millie said "I bet you are happy about the Pittsburgh Steelers".  I said "very happy!"  She was disappointed in her N.E. team.

Do you ever hear Jeannie Most ? (sp, but that's the way it sounds).  Yesterday she had a story about the latest "thing".  Eye gazing when dating.  No conversation.  18 seconds of gazing into each other's eyes & getting the message.  No blinking.  It was so cute & she has such a good way of telling these stories.

Also Craig Wilson of USA Today had a cute article on retirement.  The first group of baby boomers turned 60.  Wonder how many of the parents are till happily married.

Marisa is having problems with depression & saw the Dr. yesterday.  That is so sad for a young person.

Last nite Barb & Larry were talking about the TV show "American Idol".  Barb watched it for the first time Tues. nite & couldn't get over the lack of talent.  Both Lar & Barb treat it as a joke.  If the contestant was bad, they started swearing at the judges & one said what does Paula know.  Lar also watches "Desperate Housewives" & like it.  Kim falls asleep during the program.  Last nite I watched the Pittsburgh Penguins beat Wn. 8-1.  Finally they won a game.  They have a great young player, Sidney Crosby, who will be a star hockey player. He's only 20 years old & can really play.

Winter is back.  We got enough snow to shovel but the temps are suppose to rise.  It was cold this A.M., when I put the garbage out.  Yesterday when it was snowing & blowing, Dale had to go to Pittsburgh for school.  He got home safe & sound but said the driving wasn't too good.

Mon. when we went to the Mall, I got a new puzzle.  Small floral design.  Started it & it won't be an easy one, but there is no rush to finish it.

The library's annual report is so good & what makes it so interesting are the graphs you have explaining the money, use of books, etc.  Interesting to hear of your retirement plans.  It will be here before you know it.  You have made the library an excellent situation for the next director.

Alice Nasman gave me a pair of slacks a 14 petite & they fit beautifully, esp. around the rear. Even the length is good.  I've been getting Brigg's slacks but they are a little large in the hips & I don't like the look but still wear them. Took in the back seam some & that helps.

When Lar & Kim come Wed. nites, Thurs. seems like an extra day.  I don't do much.  Will work on the puzzle & on Thursday.  After lunch I plan to make a peanut butter pie.  It's for the freezer & dessert for Dale.

Fri. the 27th

Today is Bob's 50th birthday.  He anted to spend it in Fla. with Lynn but that didn't happen. Lynn didn't want to leave Marisa & Scott alone, esp. since Marisa is still seeing her "bad" boyfriend.  Instead Marisa is taking time off because of her moods & will go to Fla. to be with her grandparents -- Lynn's folks.  She will spend 2-3 months down there & hopes (folks) she will forget Dan, a real loser.  Why are nice girls attracted to bad boys & he has been bad since teens & before.  His folks like Marisa because they hope she can change him.

Sunny day but it was 9 this A.M.

Tuesday, January 17, 2006

Just think in another month training for baseball & pitchers will be starting.  Happy Day.

The Steelers beating the Colts last Sun. was a thriller, but also hard on the heart, but the Steelers were the winners.  Can they go all the way -- only time can tell.

No school yesterday, a snow day, so Barb & I went to Jamestown.  Roads clear, no snow. Is this really Jan.  I found 2 stops at Sears, Land's End brand.  One a knit top & a blouse -- a nice print for spring wear.  And marked down a good amt.  At Bon Ton I looked at towels on sale.  Chose 2 large bath towels, a lite blue selling for 20.00, marked down to 9.99 plus 20% off.  They ended up coasting 7.50 each.  should have gotten 2 more.  I love nice towels but I don't use the3m for myself.  Bon Ton has some good sales.  If we go to our Mall alter this week, I'll look to see if they have the brand I got in Jamestown.  Towels, I mean.  Wish they had better blotching for older women.

I recognized Andy shooting from the free throw line.  Thanks for the paper.  Oh, in the Tues USA Today letter section, there is a picture of Sen. Russ Feingold with 2 other Dem. senators.  Nice to see a picture of someone I've heard about from you both.  A solid looking game man.  Guess sports is still on my mind.)

Last Sun. Alice Nasman called & said it was too cold for me to walk to church, so she would pick me up.  She wanted to drive me home, but I begged off, saying I needed that little walk as I would be sitting all aft. watching football.  Hope I didn't hurt her feelings.

Also yesterday I did my grocery shopping at Wegman's.  It is a large store & I still don't know where everything is, but it is nice to shop there because of lower prices.  Milk is much cheaper in New York.

This is Dale's long day.  Made lasagna for supper Mon. nite & we'll finish it tonite.  Dale says it tastes better the 2nd day.  I think it tastes good anytime.

This month we've watched a lot of movies starring Robert Montgomery & have enjoyed them a lot.

I just got some ironing accomplished & this AM, I washed the floor, so I wasn't completely lazy today.

Thurs, Jan. 19

My check book was off but I found my mistake so I feel better now.  It never tallies but this time it was off too much so I checked it out.

Tonite I made my favorite meal -- meat loaf, scalloped potatoes & cabbage.  Dale won't be home til later -- he's working on his winter car.  It's bad enough that sometimes I don't know what to make for supper,k but last nite I dreamed you folks were visiting & I couldn't decide what to make for dinner.  It was a dilemma for me. I woke up before I decided so I'll never know.

I'm watching a Humphrey Bogart & Lauren McCall Bacall movie & it is interesting.  Don't know the title as I came in after it started.

I want to mail this when we go to the Mall after I get my hair done tomorrow A.M.  No special news this time.

Saturday, January 7, 2006

Your letters are always a highlight of my day.  I chuckled when I read of your banana bread adventure.

Both Kim & I suffer from a crack in the thumb but only once so far this winter for me.  CVS advertised Burt's Bees cremes.  I got the cuticle cream & had cream & the cuticle cream helped to heal the crack & rough fingers as well as soften the cuticle.  The crack didn't fee sore as long as usual.

Alice Nasman called me this A.M.  I have to go back to New Year's Sun.  When I arrived at church I couldn't see anyone entering or any cars driving into the parking lot.  So I wondered if the holiday service had started at 10 A.M. & I didn't want to be that late so I returned home. Mon. at the Mall I saw Irma Thelin & she said someone saw me & wondered if I had gotten sick.  So I told her my story.  Then this A.M. Alice called & said she dreamed about me & woke up crying.  She thought I didn't go to church because I was made at her.  So I told her my story again.  I assured her I was not made at her & my not going to church was my fault entirely.  So we talked 45 min.  Twice she said "I'll let you go" & started in again.  I feel she needs someone to talk to so I let her talk & say yes, uh huh, etc.

The bare Christmas tree is still standing.  It is up to Dale to take it down & put it away.  (He did!)

When the car doors lock, one of them make a terrible noise.  The lock needs to be replaced. Dale ordered one at a cost of 39.00.  But if I had to take it to Shults to have it repaired, the cost would be 69.00 plus the labor.  So I'm lucky to have Dale do it.  I just pay for the lock.

This A.M. I used a ripe bananas & made ban. bread & also blueberry bread.  Th en a pumpkin pie to go with homemade beef-veggie soup, now simmering on the stove.  Our meal for tonite.

Kim & Lar will come on Wed. nite for awhile as Lar will be going to Lakewood with 5 other guys to play soccer.  For a couple of months or so.

The dishes from Lar & Kim were 3 boxes, service for 4.  2 of them are still under the tree. The big problem is where will they be stored.  Barb wants me to buy more shelving for the basement to store them there.  She loves the dishes & it was at her suggestion  they got them.  They are pottery & heavier to handle.

After lunch Barb came into the kitchen smelling very strong & Dale commented on it.  Of course that didn't go over with Barb.  What I'm trying to say is her perfume is very potent smelling.  Her response Dales does things I could complain about & then she does -- to me. I let it go in one ear & out the other.  Life is funny.

Just finished talking to Gen first & then Millie.  Don't have much of a conversation with Gen but Millie & I talked quite awhile.  Both had nice holidays.  Millie is glad to be closer to Linda & sees a lot of her.  She was telling about a lady who is 106 years old living in an apt. there.  She is still very sharp.  Reads, knits, etc.  But she told Millie, she is getting tired.

Thurs A.M. Jan 12

This A.M. Dale said it seemed like Fri because Lar & Kim were her last nite.  I agree but it is nice to have a day without much to do.

Tues. Barb spent the day in bed because she didn't feel good.  Not the flu like Dale had.  Wed. she was OK./

It is feeling spring-like but we know it is only Jan & we can expect more cold weather.  We are enjoying it while it is here.

The young couple across the st. have finally moved in.  It is nice to see lights over there again.  The little house is still empty & not much work is being done on it.

Dale got the replacement lock & put it in, so now we won't have that noise when the doors lock.

We've been watching some good movies on TMC.  Don't recall all the titles but enjoyed Now Voyager a lot.  Think it starred Bette Davis.  Sunset Boulevard was on but I couldn't get interested in it, but Barb enjoyed it.  I did look to see Gloria Swanson for a bit.

Fri A.M. the 13!  The other nite I watched the end of Wi. at Minn. basketball & it was an exciting finish with a win for Wi.

Hope to mail this at the Mall this aft.  One more nice day -- will winter return?  I like it how it is now.

Sunday, October 16, 2005

I was talking to Dick Hause after church.  They are football & baseball fans & Dick said Oct. is the best month for sports.  World Series& football.  We just watched Pittsburgh get beat (good grammar?) & now Buffalo is on the screen.  I'll also turn to baseball.

I had a nice birthday.  We enjoyed our dinner at Chiodo's.  They have a no smoking section & it was full.  Ed O'Neill was there with his wife celebrating an older couple's anniversary.  He is a big guy. It always amazes me how many people Lar & Kim know when we are out.

Barb gave me a black purse; Kim & Lar gave me lottery tickets but I didn't win much.  Dale gave me automatic car door openers but first he has to put in a part to make them work.  2 of them so Barb & I will appreciate that.  I mentioned I tho't that was a nice thing to have & now we'll have it.  Lar & Kim have it on their car.

Because of siring heating prices Dale doubled what he gives me every payday.  I have been using that money as a Christmas club.  I have envelopes for my budget so I know what I'm doing.

After church today I put the electric blanket on my bed.  I'll be warmer now when I get into bed.

We plan to go to Jamestown this week -- most likely on Fri.

I finished my puzzle & Barb started one today.  She said I can work on it.

Barb ordered a cake for my birthday but she ordered 1/2 sheet cake instead of 1/4.  So I put half of it in the freezer & we still have plenty to eat.  She'll take some for Scott & Bob.  It is a good tasting cake.

Mon A.M. Oct 17

Barb cut out & instructed me to enclose the clippings from the Buff. Sun. paper.

I saw the Dr. last Fri.  Blood pressure very good & all else is fine. Got a flu shot.

Yesterday Dale put the "thing" that helps close the front screen door.  Barb had taken it off for painting.  He also planed the top of the door as it stuck a bit.  Dad installed the screen door & it didn't please Dale.  Something was in the way to make it perfect. People who get their cars worked on by Dale get an A-One job performed.

Tues. Oct 18

This A.M. Alice Nasman called me & she talked for an hour.  She wasn't in church Sun. as she wasn't feeling good.  At the end of 1 hour she said thanks for talking to me -- I don't have anyone to talk to.  She has a sister but she isn't well & doesn't want to burden her. Think I wrote that Wayne went to school to work on motorcycles & got a job in Erie.  They aren't busy during the winter so he was laid of.  Alice has to be careful because of her heart.  If I can hep by listening so be it.

This A.M., I washed the kitchen floor with a new mop.  It is a wider sponge & so easy to use.  I'm glad I got it.l

I ordered, from L. L. Bean, 2 pr. pants & a shirt for Lar.  One pr. of pants is flannel lined he likes for colder weather.  They were Kim's suggestion.  I showed the jeans (twill) to Dale & he likes them, color & all.  Olive color.  I saw a sweater at L. L. Bean I like & plan to order it as well as pants for Dale.  Sat. nite getting ready to go out to eat, Dale said "I guess I'll have to get some new clothes."  Was surprised to hear him say that.  Usually he receives clothes for gifts.  He needs to weed some clothes he never wears from his closet & give them to Goodwill.  But he hates to party with anything.

Thurs. Oct 20

Tonite I fixed oven fried chicken.  I had gotten 2 acorn squash, sliced them.  Put the slices in a dish & poured melted butter & maple syrup over them.  It was very good -- Larry loved the veggie. I did too.  Of course I baked them.  Apple crisp for dessert.

Wed. Bon Ton had a 2 day sale -- Wed & Thurs -- so we went to the Mall & did more Christmas shopping.  When I call for your birthday I'll want some suggestions for Christmas ideas!  I'll still send money for Christmas.

I'll mail this when we go to Jamestown tomorrow.

Sunday, May 15, 2005

Yesterday I wrote a thank you to John for his letter & pictures.  Also wrote a note to Gen.

Today was Pentecost & we were encouraged to wear red.  I got a 2-piece red dress when we went to Erie several years ago.  Red jacket & a printed red shift.  Haven't worn it that much. After the service we went right into the meeting about the organ.  One part is completely gone & the other 3 parts will be going so the company suggested fixing all of them, as well as releathering another part & a cleaning.  They said the value of the organ is one half million & they also said more work will be needed in a dozen years or more.  When they called for a motion a few second went by so I made the motion & Betty Casey seconded it.  It will cost $3200.00 & a member left a $3000.00 gift to the church & they'll use that.  All yeses, no no's.  Once they get started it will take about 10 days.

Did you happen to see the Weather Channel & the bit on Great Falls' Giant Springs, now Giant Springs Park.  It was interesting.  Brought back memories of your trek to Giant Springs, wasn't it -- or along the river.

This little interlude will have to do.


Some small birds are trying to build a nest in the hanging basket on the porch.  To stop them we put some small sticks to prevent it.  I have to water the plants & it drowns the nest. They must use the trees for nests, not my plant!

Dad was assigned to Hartford for his intern year.  During the summer before his last year at the Seminary, he served a large church in Peoria, Il. & when the summer was over, they asked him if he would consider a call as the pastor had left.  He said he didn't think he should start out in a large congregation.  His friend Gordon Loren had a call to Bainbridge Island & Dad had the one from Auburn & I think that is why he accepted the call.  There were also some interns in Seattle & the group got together & had a good time.

Maybe he wanted to get away from the family.  I don't remember him saying too much about it.  I do know that Stella & Frank liked to be the ones in control.  We weren't home that much & when we were things went pretty well.  Maybe it was more with the sisters.  I know, tho, they liked me as a wife for their brother, or approved.  It is really sad about Ruth. Too bad she won't even try & make it easier on Mim.  My mother was the one to care for her parents & she always said she hoped she wouldn't be in the same boat & she wasn't.  I think every parent hopes that.

Today in church our pastor asked those to stand who weren't lifetime Lutherans.  Surprising how many stood & looking around, I noted many were brought into the church by Dad.

I'm enclosing an article about one of our members.  It is interesting to read about the prices in the restaurant she & her mother ran.  She always enjoyed Dad's visits when her husband was sick.  She always started the coffee pot when he called.  He was very good about bringing communion to the shut-ins.

Alice Nasman called me tonite to find out about the meeting & was glad to hear the organ will be repaired.  But we talked over an hour & I thought she'd never hang up.  Her feelings are easily hurt so the conversation went on & on.  Maybe she just needed someone to talk to.

Tues. the 17th

Last nite I had to turn on the heat & this A.M. it was 34 & the heat went on to take the chill off.  It's too late to be using the furnace.

Yesterday Dale went to the dentist at 8 A.M. & then took off for Erie for an 10 a.m. appt with the neurologist for a checkup.  He got a new medication . He was back at work at 11:30.

This A.M. after breakfast I read my book "Sleeping Beauty" by Judith Michaels from 7-8 A.M. Then I did the dishes, showered, got dressed &^ made my bed up clean.  Did a load of clothes, read some more.  Then Barb took me to vote at Holy Redeemer.  Back home I read some more, made lunch & read all aft. & finished my book.  It was so good.  Over 500 pages.  So I didn't do much today but read.  The Schwan man came & I got pork chops & I fixed stuffed pork chops for supper.  I didn't even watch my "soaps".

We went to the library yesterday & I got 4 books.  A small one to read next Tues while I wait at the dentist's office.  Fern Michael's "Trading Places", "The Side of the Angels" by Leona Blair, & "Into the Darkness" by Barbara Michaels.

They want to close the Naval Station at Niagara Falls & of course they are upset & will try to fight it.

Just like they want to fight the closing of the Sheffield grade school . They would be bussed to Clarendon.  The school tax will go up.

I'd like to start reading another book but I won't let myself because I never want to lay it down.  I have to do some work tomorrow.

It will be interesting to see who gets the nod for Erie Mayor.  The Erie paper didn't endorse R. Filippe (if that's how you spell it).

Wed A.M.

I worked this A.M. But still am tempted to start another book.  Have to plan Thurs. menu first.  Kim won't be coming -- her club meets that nite.

I did what I said I shouldn't do.  I said I'll only read 100 pages & I'm on p. 160.  I cant put it down.  484 pages.

Sat. Dale & 5 others from work are going to a stock care race in Indianapolis -- the cars to 1/2 mile in 3-4 seconds.  They will leave at 3:30 a.m. Sat. morning.  It takes 6 hours to get there.  They'll stop for breakfast along the way.  Randy Swanson is driving he has a van.

Thurs. nite.  Correction they are going to Columbus, Ohio.  It is drag racing.

Finished my book this aft. & it was such a good book.

In the library how do you choose board members?  Do you always like the ones who are chosen.  Is it hard to find people who choose to accept?  Just curious.  I got a letter from our library wanting a donation.  I'll probably send a donation.

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

We had a nice dinner Sat. nite at Kim & Lar's.  Kim served turkey loin & it was very good.  It was too chilly to eat outside.  Later we sat in front of the fire & that was fun.  Lar & Kim gave me a birdhouse for the porch & a gift certificate from Penney's.  Dale gave ma a hanging planter, like last years, & Barb & I bo't mine when we were in Erie.  A frying pant that is deeper & has a cover.  I wanted one from watching Food Channel.  Thanks you for the silk flower arrangement.  It is very pretty with 2 butterflies, ivy at the bottom & flowers.  Hard to describe.

Summer has returned again & it's nice.  The flowering trees are beautiful.  There is one in Frank's yard across the st. & it's pretty to look at.

We're having steak & baked potatoes for Lar's birthday.  Carrot cake for dessert.  Salad, etc. I got him the shirt he picked out & some golf balls.  He & Kim play during the summer.

I'll warn you -- I'm sending money for your anniversary.  Maybe you want something for the yard or your July party.

And don't count on me being at Andy's graduation.  It's too far to travel for an old lady.

I finished the last library book & enjoyed it.

Barb gave me a puzzle & I started putting it together.  It has a lot of flowers & that makes it harder, but it's coming.  I enjoy doing puzzles.

If Scott passes 6th grade it will be because Barb does homework with him.  He doesn't like to write the answers so Barb says "I'm going home" & then he will because he knows he'll be in trouble with his Mom.  He is a very stubborn kid.

Thurs. evening.

We had a nice birthday dinner for Lar.  The steaks were delicious & Larry liked his gifts. Dale gave him something like an electric gun to make it easier to take of the lug nuts when changing a tire.  Barb gave him a lamp for the camp.  She got it at L. L. Bean.  It lights for 6 hours & then you can plug it in to be used again.  Did I make myself clear?

It really cooled off today.  Good I didn't take the electric blanket from my bed.  I did change to a lighter nightie.

Alice Nasman called me.  She can't be at church this Sun. (15th) when we have a meeting concerning the organ.  You must be present to vote so I can't vote for her.   The pastor thinks it will be accepted to spend money to fix the organ.  She mentioned Wayne finished his training in York (motorcycles).  This week he is in Arizona for further education.  He works in Erie so he must have gotten a job.

Not much news this week.  All is well with us.

Saturday, March 5, 2005

Barb's treadmill was delivered yesterday.  They put it together so Dale didn't have that job.  It is a big one with parts to use the arms as well as walking.  It has a button you can press & it goes uphill like you're walking up a hill.  Tells how many calories you burn while walking. Barb loves it.  She is starting easy -- 1/2 hr. at a time.

Golf is so interesting.  At the final Sun. Mickelson will have Tiger as a partner.  Phil is -20, and Tiger is -19.  What a set up.  It will be interesting.

Alice Nasman (Wayne & Rick's mom) called me today to tell me she won't be in church tomorrow.  She hasn't been feeling well all week -- 24 hr. flu only it's longer.  She was watching golf & so was I.  Both of us root for Tiger.  Betty Casey isn't back to church either. Best to stay in with our winter months.  She's feeling better, tho.

With the commercials on TV today, my thumb gets a good workout muting them out.  And they are so long now.

Dale worked til noon today so I started baking early.  It was the week to make the coffee cake & then I planned to make a pie.  Pumpkin as it's so easy to do.  Then I decided to ask Dale what he'd like.  He said we've had pump. pie lately so how about apple.  So I made an apple pie.  It is tasty.

Dale did his income tax this aft.  Next Wed. Larry will do my state tax.  There are 4 more soccer sessions & then it will be back to Thurs. when they come.  Now Thurs seems like an extra day.

Frank, across the St, has a new agency trying to sell his house.  Hope it goes better this time.  It is probably priced too high.

Golf was exciting & Tiger won.  Then I switched & watched the final laps of  Busch car racing in Mexico City.  One of D.E.I. (Dale Earnhardt Inc.) cars won the race.

Our pastor announced today that she is expecting a baby.  She is very happy -- they were even thinking of adoption.  No need now.

Barb wasn't feeling good today -- headache. She is better tonite.

Mon. Mar. 7

This aft. I watched the Cubs vs. Texas & the Cubs won.  It was a good game.  Ruck Sutcliffe (apt to be wordy) & Gary Thorne announced the game.  Gary is a great announcers & today I didn't have to mute it.  Can't remember the 3rd man, but when Mike Piazza was an L.A. catcher Mike & this fellow were friends & had an apt. together.  I didn't realize this one was retired.  He was traded last year or so -- maybe to the Cubs but don't quote me.  I really don't' like the 3 man team.  Too many to "spout" off.  They trip over their tongues trying to beat the others in showing off how much they think they know.  The name above is Eric Karros.   Just saw it on TV.  Tues aft & I'm watching the Giants vs. Texas & the same announcers.

It's 12 outside.  And what's for supper.  Hamburgers & potato salad.  Sounds like a summertime meal.  But I didn't feel like macaroni & cheese & pot. salad sounded good to me.  We just got a dusting of snow.

Buffalo is having a terrible time with finances.  The 5 pm news keeps us informed.  I like the announcers so I watched WGRZ -- NBC in Buff.

Thurs. the 10th of Mar.

Your letter with "The Bookworm" arrived today & I noticed it was mailed Mar. 2.  Wonder why it took so long to arrive.

Last nite Kim told us about an incident at school.  A 9th grade girl was caught stealing.   They suspected her but couldn't prove it so they set up a camera & caught her.  Then the girl's locker room was next.  Rolls of toilet paper in the toilet & paper towels in the sink.  It happened twice.  So Kim spoke to the girls in that class & informed them from now on there would be an aid to watch them in the locker room.  And Kim said I know who is responsible & the girl looked at Kim & mouthed "bitch".  Kim took her to the office.  If she does this in 9th grade, what will happen when she is in 12th grade.  Maybe she won't make it.  She was suspended 5 days for the theft.  People are afraid of the family -- afraid of revenge.  T hat's what teachers put up with in Sheffield.

Kim & Larry got a new treadmills awhile ago.  Kim runs on it but Lar walks.  You can't run on Barb's.

I'm watching a program on Jay Leno's car collection.   They are redoing a 1966 Toronado  to make it over -- make it elite.  It's interesting.  He doesn't have children -- old cars are his babies & he has quite a collection.  At times there are old cars up for bid & it's amazing how expensive they can be.  Fun to watch.

Barb was glad to hear her camera is ready.  She wants to know how much she owes you, including postage.

Glad you're back to normal.  Have you caught up on your work.

I like the picture illustrations in your letters.

Glad you're feeling good again & that no one else was sick.  Nice you kept your germs to yourself!!!

One nite Dale said his throat was sore but nothing developed.  We were glad.

Saturday, February 28, 2004

I did my usual Sat. A.M. baking.  Coffee cake, & rolls for the freezer.  I like to have Danish on hand & they were getting low.  Lunch is over & I'm watching gold on TV. It is very interesting to watch.

We got a misses woman's catalog from Penney's & both Barb & I were surprised to see dresses, etc. that we wouldn't mind wearing.  Finally, as so many past pages were not very interesting.  Maybe the sales were down.

Barb isn't feeling good today -- headache.  It started yesterday.

If you watch the Weather Channel, you know we are under a "high" & the weather is so nice & much warmer.  We're enjoying it while we can.

Yesterday I took some of my slacks to store in the attic & took down spring things.  Not that I'll be wearing them yet, but you know the bats like our attic & I don't' care to go up there then.

By the time you read this, the library should be back to normal & I'm sure you have a big sigh of relief. It sounds wonderful.

Are you going to see "The Passion of the Christ"?  It holds no interest for me -- I prefer to read the Passion Story in the Bible.  I know it was a "gory" story but it is the meaning that is important.  Christ died to forgive us our sins.



Dale is cleaning out his closet today & getting things ready to give to the Goodwill, who have facilities at the Mall now.  Barb & I have accumulated a few bags to bring there.  If I can maintain my present weight, I'll have slacks for them next Fall.

Sun the 29th.

Still watching golf -- no NASCAR today.  It's Tiger vs. Love.  It's match play & fun to watch.

Think I mentioned Alice Nasman sits with us in church.  She was saying she doesn't know if she should sell her house & get an apt.  She said, "I really would like to be up there" -- looking up towards heaven.  It's 2 years since her husband died.  Not me, I hope to see more of Andy & Ed's lives unfold if I'm lucky enough to live to my 90s.

This A.M. after Dale ate his breakfast, he cleaned around the sink &  behind jars  etc.  He told me he cleaned there & found crumbs.  And we must be careful as ants are attracted to crumbs.  Last year we had trouble with ants, after an absence of several years.

The pastor announced a group asked about seeing "The Passion of the Christ" & those interested could come.  It will be the 1st Sat. in March & then they'll come back to church for coffee & discussion.   I'm still not interested.

Mon. Mar. 1

Tonite I fixed a meal I like.  Meat loaf & scalloped potatoes.  Fixed the pot. I wrote about, for Dale as he likes them better.  Dale said he likes meat loaf if it's made right!  I used a recipe from one of my magazines...eggs, oatmeal, ketchup, Worcestershire & seasoning.  It tasted good to me & it was firm & didn't fall apart.

We got groceries today as it might shower tomorrow.  Besides, I want to make dinner rolls & pie crust tomorrow.  Have to make a good lunch for Dale as it's the Tues. he works til 8 pm.  The weeks go by so fast.

Can't remember if I told you this but Dale said they'll be going to school more often because of the new cars & how they work.

Barb found a mistake in the afghan for Marisa so she thinks she'll have to reknit it.  So now when she knits, she does a few inches & then checks her work.  The mistake is in the first part of the knitting.

Wed the 3rd.

Lar & Kim come tonite so I made a pecan pie this A.M. & started a fresh fruit salad.  Started with grapes & oranges & will add apple & bananas.  We're having chicken.  It seems it's either chicken or pork & steak as a change & it's soon time for steaks.

The snow is melting away.  It's about gone on the opposite side of the st. -- they get the aft. sun.  Our side is dirty & soon gone.  It's the piled up snow from shoveling that takes the longest to melt.

The mail just came & Barb got something from the U. of Wisc. alumni assn.  She left earlier today.  Went to Bert's to check up & then the dentist.  Then to BiLo's for supplies for Bert who will finally be home this week Thurs.

Wed. aft.  Guess what I'm doing -- watching spring training baseball -- Mets vs. L.A.  I know it doesn't count, but the Mets are ahead 3-0.  All 3 runs came in the 1st inning so maybe there will be more.   Fun to see baseball again.  I'll even skip my "soap" but will check in during commercials.  The Mets have a few new players & I'll soon know their names.  It has to be better than last year -- couldn't be much worse.

Thurs. the 4th.

Last nite Lar figured out my state tax so that is out of the way.

This A.M. I took it easy.  Just had 2 loads of laundry.  I'm working on the puzzle Barb bot.  We're having hamburgers & macaroni & cheese for supper.  An easy one.

The Mets started out good in t he 1st inning & then died.  Good it was just a practice game.  The Mets used pitchers to see if they are ready for the big time.  At least baseball will soon start in April.

I get a perm next Mon & I need it.  Barb said she wouldn't have another perm.  Then she went & made an appointment for next Tues. at 5 pm.

Fri.  Just got home from my hair appt.

Bert got home about 7 pm yesterday.  She was a little put out no one was there to greet her.  The one who sleeps overnite didn't get there til 9:30 pm

Saturday, December 27, 2003

It's a beautiful Sat. aft. with sun shining in on the kitchen table.

This A.M. Barb & I went to the library &^ I got 2 books.  Blind Side by Catherine Coulter & The Forgotten by Faye Kellerman.  Read a few pages from each & think I'll read Blind Side, an FBI thriller first.  Then we went to the Mall& looked around.  Barb got 2 calendars at half price & I got a couple of necessities.

When I got the mail was pleased to see a letter.  I thought you might be too busy to write. An added pleasure.

Mon. we plan to go to Jamestown.  Barb needs some foods from Wegmans she can't find in Warren.  Maybe they will still have some bargains at the Mall.

Watched Pitt get beat by UVA.  Just turned to see Buff. getting beat by New England.  Buff. front line has injuries & they can't protect the QB.  It hasn't been a pretty season for Buff. fans but each home game has been a sellout.

The only thin I've done today is make a coffee cake.  Nice to be lazy.  I should do some ironing but it will still be there next week.

Called Gen last nite as I  haven't heard from her.  She lost my telephone number again.  She did mention Millie had water in her basement & she had Christmas Eve & they always use the basement.  It was something Ed had told Millie years ago to keep an eye on.  Today her grandsons are going to fix it for her.

Ray Forstrum (Youngsville) preached today as our pastor had the flue.  He was called at 7 A.M., so he didn't have much time to get ready.

Betty Casey had a slight stroke & should get out of the hosp. today.  Alice Nasman was back in church today but I didn't get a chance to talk to her.  She had been in the hosp. Janelle Welsh (don't recall her married name) was in church today -- home for a week.  Her daughter died recently.  Janelle asked about Barb.  She is in Calif. since her marriage.

Kim just called to see if we remembered we're invited for dinner at 6.  I won't forget that I don't have to fix a meal today.

I'm watching football.  Dallas vs. New Orleans.  I'm sure you were rooting for Seattle to lose last nite but they turned the tables & won.

Tues. Dec. 30

We had a nice time at Lar & Kim's.  The meal was delicious.  Tender meat, large stuffed potato halves.  I'd like to do that during the holidays to make it easier for me.  Maybe I will next Christmas.

Yesterday we went to Jamestown.  I got some Christmas decorations 1/2 price & that's about all.

We ate lunch at a new Italian place == Barb had lasagna & salad & I had 1/2 meatball sub. Very good but too much food.  I ate my meatballs & part of the rolls -- too much to eat but very tasty.

This aft. we're going grocery shopping.  Also to the bank to cash a check for Jan. expenses; to CVS for medication & to the Mall.  Kim gave me a top & it is too big so I'll exchange it.

New Year's Eve

Didn't know what to make for supper so it turned out to be homemade chicken soup & pumpkin pie.  Both are good.  I had warm pumpkin pie & coffee at 4 pm & soup at 5 pm.  It's a help yourself meal.

I always tho't Lar & Kim were busy New Years Day & when I mentioned it, Kim said no.  So they will be here for dinner.  In Pa. pork & sauerkraut are popular for New Years & we'll have pork loin.  Kim isn't fond of sauerkraut but I have a small can & might have it for any who like it.  I learned to like it while working at Beaty.

Kim & Lar are going to a party at Betsy Singer.  Finally remembered her last name. You might see her picture with 2 others in our paper concerning hospital doings.  She has a part time job at the hospital.

We'll take the tree down sometime on Fri.  I'm ready to have the house back in normal order.

Dale worked 1/2 day today but it was 3:30-4 pm before he got home.  A fellow who used to work at Shults but now has his own shop had gotten a run down van.  Had it towed to Shults & asked Dale to check it.  It didn't run. Dale got it to run & he earned $50.00.  He's not as free in sharing his time & talent after working 8 hrs a day on cars.

Didn't see U of Wis. lose today but did watch part of Ore. vs. Minn.  The ending was exciting when Mn. won in the last seconds.

I doubt if I'll be awake to see the New Year in.  Early to bed, earlyi to rise is for me.

Jan 1.  Happy New Year


I'm watching the Honeymooners & it's a crazy episode.  I laugh so hard I get tears.  They are on a train & handcuffed & try to sleep in a sleeping car.  Suppose to be going to Minneapolis but end up in Va.   One of the funniest ever.

The sun is shining but cold.  I think I'll end this & walk to the 5th Ave. mailbox & get a little fresh air.

It's a lazy day, not rushed like Christmas, so I'm enjoying it.

So far Iowa is running over Fla.  Barb says we have to root for Iowa.