Wednesday, March 30, 2005

Finally warmer weather is here with showers.

Easter Sun. was cloudy but no rain.  Lar & Kim came for dinner & we had turkey.  Kim said only 50 more days of school & then vacation.   Even the teachers count the days.

In your letter I appreciated seeing the picture of the new church in Two Rivers.  It looks like a nice church to worship in.

We got a catalogue Coldwater Creek from Idaho.  Barb ordered 3 items; they came yesterday & Barb is very disappointed in them.  She didn't like them at all & is returning them. And they aren't cheap article.  The 3 cost over $100.

Dale got a tamper to tamp down the ground that has heaved up due to winter weather.  He's ready to rake the lawn once it dries up. I'm glad he likes to work on the lawn & Barb on the flowers. It won't be long before we'll be looking for flowers.

Last week we returned & got more book for me & videos for Barb.  It got The Wyndham Legacy by Clouter (Catherine) & Texas Sunrise & Vegas Rich by Fern Michaels.  Enjoyed reading them.

That encounter at the library with Mr. Don Conway was a curious one.  Maybe he was "hungry" to talk with an adult after babysitting.  The name made me think of Donald Conaway, the son, but he lives in the Boston area.  And there is not "A" in Conway.  We have Conway's in Wrrn.  Just one of the interesting events in your life.

We're back to Thurs. when Lar & Kim come for dinner.  Soccer is over.  I'm glad because Thurs. always felt like it should be Fri.

Dale has something wrong with his nails & we have no dermatologist in Wrrn.  His Dr. found a Dr. who will take his insurance but he is in Meadville.  Dale has an A.M. appt. to see him in May . Some sort of an infection that won't go away.   He sees his regular Dr. next week. I'm sure glad he found a Dr. when he did & sees him regularly.

I wish we had a radio station that played music I could listen to.  They have "oldies" but they aren't old enough for me.  We have an hour of classical music Sun A.M. but it isn't the classical music I like.  Sounds like I don't know what I want!

I got spring & summer clothes from the attic.  Yesterday I washed & pressed them & found room for them in my closet.  They're ready to wear when the time comes.

Mar 31.  Arlene Hornstrom's birthday -- he's not doing too well.

I've been busy this A.M., that is for an old lady!  Cleaned the bathroom & have a load of towels in the dryer.  Then I made a dessert -- Boston cream pie.  Made the filling first & then the cake.  Didn't have a mix so I checked my recipes & found a good one.  Similar to a sponge cake -- nice & light -- & the filling is good.  It's still cooling so I haven't put it together yet.  It is one of my favorites.

I woke up early this A.M. & was thinking about this letter & something I wanted to write. Now I can't think of it.  Maybe it will come to me.  It came to me:

I finally saw my first robin this A.M. looking out the kitchen window.  Both Barb & Dale saw robins ahead of me.

Last Sun. Kim mentioned that Torey had worn down his back paw nails so they were bleeding.  She has some sox for him to wear.  In talking to her aunt last Sun. she mentioned Torey's nails & her aunt said they have glue-on nails for dogs.  Kim checked on the computer, found & ordered some to protect his paws.  They glue on just like the ones women use.  Isn't that something.  Wonder if they came yet.  We'll find out tonite.

They said we'd have rain today.  So far it hasn't arrived.

Just took a little nap & now it's time to get busy.  Can work & watch my soaps.

Monday, June 10, 2002

I'm sitting on the porch watching Dale paint the step's railings.  He sanded them on Sat.  It took most of the day because he's so fussy.  Yesterday he put the undercoat on & tonite he's putting the first coat of light tan on.  It looks really nice.  He was saying maybe he didn't have to be so fussy.

Today I hung sheets & underwear outside.  Also washed one of Dale's blankets & put it away for the summer.  They dry fast outside.

Elise Yaegle's sister died -- she had a brain tumor.  She was born in May 1920 -- my age.  Arlene Hornstrom is back in Warren at the nursing home in Pleasant Township.  This way friends can visit her.

What is a Silpat baking mat.  I've never heard of it.  Maybe I should watch the Cooking Channel.  Lately when nothing interests me, I turn to the History Channel & enjoy watching it. 

Lisa Carey & her 2 daughters were home this weekend as well as Paul & John.  The gossip is that they (Carey's) found a house in Buffalo, near Paula & John & will spend the summers there & winters in Fla.  No interest for their house here, altho people have looked at it.

Barb took 2 bike rides Sun. & today.  She's testing to see if her body can take it.  One ride equals 10 miles on the bike path & home Conewango Ave.

Today I mailed a card to Gen & a memorial for Stella to Shirley.  I hope she doesn't mind but I didn't want to wait any longer.  She can get in touch with David.

It's Wed. the 12th & it's hot & humid.  Yesterday I was at church so I put off cleaning the bathroom until this A.M.  The 2 Tues. A.M. mtg. always fall on Dale's long day.  He likes the Stouffers chicken pot pie or the ravioli & garlic toast so lunch is taken care of.  Just has to choose one.

I just watched "The Golden Girls" & had a lot of laughs.

I tried a new cooky yesterday.  Date & nut bars -- the dates are hard to find -- but it is a good cooky.  The brand name won't com\e to me but I also got the iced cooky you like.

Got my new Taste of Home Quick Cooking & plan to try a cooky recipe when it cools off, probably Sat.  Toffee Oat Cooky.  Contains oats & English toffee bits or almond brickle chips, plus sugar, flour, etc.  Tried them.  Very good. 

Scott is going to summer school at Jefferson for math.  There are 6 boys in the class & he likes it.  Tues, Wed & Thurs.  Barb will take care of him & clean for Lynn. When Marisa & Scott are together, they fight like cats & dogs.  Lynn said he likes it.  He told Barb he didn't.

Thurs A.M. is always a busy A.M.  I have to get the garbage out before 8:30 & I have to get a shower first & get dressed.  I'm usually up at 6 A.M. & this A.M. I got a fresh blueberry pie made.  1/2 of the berries are in the sauce I make & it is poured into a baked shell with 2 cups of fresh berries.  Can you understand my thoughts.  Then I got the dirty dishes, etc. cleaned up & started a load of clothes.  So most of my work is done expect to get dinner.  Yesterday I told Barb I was thinking of having a chicken noodle casserole & that didn't appeal to her.  So I said tell me what you'd like.  She chose the chicken with mushrooms & muenster cheese.  Then I said what about dessert -- maybe I'll have gingerbread, knowing she didn't like it.  Her suggestion was blueberry pie & offered to go to BiLo for the cheese & berries.  She also got a bottle of wine.  So we should have a good dinner.

This is the weekend Kim & gal friends go to Pittsburgh for a weekend of golf.  Seeing they dont' get back til late Sun. aft., they came for dinner.  We have celebrated her birthday on that Sun. but seeing her birthday is Fri. this time, we'll celebrate on Thurs.  Excuse my mistakes but I'm watching CNN & the Paula Zahn show & it's interesting & my mind is on 2 things & it doesn't help to write -- when distracting -- (I'm really mixed up) when I'm distracted by an interesting section of the program.  It's Oreo's 90th birthday today & it was fund to watch that section.

Gen called last nite.  Ed is in a nursing home & getting therapy.  She doesn't seem to really know what is going on.  I'll have to call Millie.  They go to lunch today for Gen's birthday & Edith will know about it.  Ed had a little operation but Gen didn't know much about it.  John took the day off & was with Ed.  John won't be taking the trip to Sweden.  John got a new car -- a Mercedes -- a silver color.  Maybe that will attract a girl!

Sunday, February 10, 2002

It's a cloudy aft. dark & trying to rain.  A good time for a nap but I want to start your letter.

Wed. is Ash Wed. & many Lutheran churches use ashes.  Our interim pastor plans to, so that will be a new experience for us.  First & St. Paul have had Wed Lenten midweek services together alternating churches.  Not this year.  First's pastor had to have a knee replacement & guess who is helping for 6 weeks.  St. Paul's former pastor, Gary Risher & he wouldn't want to come to St. Paul.  Heard he had a chance to go to a church in Pittsburgh but because of being at First for 6 weeks, he didn't take it.  Sounds funny to me.  Seems like he'd want a salary & benefits.  Margaret doesn't want to give up her teaching job so she'll have to support him. He still has a couple of years before Social Security.

A couple of thoughts have been on my mind.

Aunt Ida & Aunt Helen gave my folks 6 sets of sterling silverware for their 25th wedding anniversary.  Eventually I got it.  (Gen has her own.)  I always thought I'd give it to Barb, the only daughter.  But Barb is apt to sell things if she is short of money (yard sales she had in Oshkosh).  And I wouldn't like that.  So I'm wondering about the boys getting it.  Dividing it -- 4 each.  I added a serving fork, gravy ladle & other pieces so there is service for 8.  Then there is Grandpa Nelson's watch Ford gave Dad.  Who gets that?  It is something to think about.  I'd like that settled now.

For me, half the fun of having company or your visits is the planning.  I have meals planned, grocery lists & things to do before you come.  A couple are to clean the storage spaces below the sinks.  Things get shoved in back & I don't know what's what.  I'll try to get them in order.  Need to check my closets.  Will have more for the Salvation Army.

Carey's left for Fla. last Sat. via Buffalo.  May Ann has a bad back so she will stay with Paula in Buff. & Jack will drive to Fla. with the dog.  When he arrives, Mary Ann will fly down & he will pick her up at the airport.  He brought the garage door opener over for Dale so he can use their garage.  They'll be back in May.  Larry stops in  to water plans & check on things.  They had 2 dogs but one had to be put to sleep.

Barb is sewing her sweater together.  Has ends to weave in & the neck to finish.  She hopes to finish it next week.  It came out so nice.

John Hornstrom was in church this A.M.  He brought Arlene home for 4 days.  He's on vacation.  She was living with him but she didn't want him to go to work & he can't do that.  So she is with Julie & her family.  They'll make Arlene get up, get dressed & make her take her medications.

Mon A.M.

This is Dale's early week so I got an early start on my work & I'm ready for a break.  I got the cupboards under the kitchen & laundry room sinks cleaned & in order.  They look nice for awhile.  Now I'm getting 2 loads of wash done & then I'll make Dale's bed.  I only have 1 set of flannel sheets for his bed.  Am suppose to hove another set but where I stored them is a secret!  I can't find them.

We awoke to a layer of snow but not enough to shovel.  The sun is out now (10 am) so things are pretty.  I'm at the kitchen table & looking at the fir trees & they are snow tipped & make a pretty picture.  It is also time for "Murder, She Wrote".

I noticed your favorite author C. Hiaasen had a new book out.  Also another book "The Corrections" by Jonathan Franzen that sounds interesting to me.

Betty Casey has 14 grandchildren & 6 great grandchildren.  Just welcomed a new g.c.

Tues A.M. the 12th

I'm on a "coffee break" having finished my chores for today.  After lunch we get groceries.  You can see I don't push myself.  I figure if you keep your house picked up, it always looks O.K.  The pastor who preached last Sun. is from Jamestown & they live in the Lutheran Home Apts.  Their apt. was just repainted & things had hto be gone over & she found many things she didn't use anymore & was getting rid of things.  Her spring housecleaning was done for her.  At home Spfld. spring housecleaning meant airing mattresses, beating rugs hung over the clothes line.  Curtains dried on curtain stretchers.  Glad that is in the past.  Ah memories.  We all helped.

Today's paper had the obit of Scott Daelhausen.  51 yrs.  Graduated with you.

Friday, December 21, 2001

Paul Nelson, Mim Benander Warren, Carole Benander Hultgren, Carolyn Swanson Masterson, Don Carlson, Curt Nelson, Gerald Nelson, Roland Swanson


This A.M. I decided to wear my new brown slacks & new blouse.  Saw the Dr. this aft. & all is well.  Blood pressure going down.  So I decided to change clothes & as I was hanging up my slacks (charcoal gray) I saw the brown slacks in the closet.  I took the wrong slack but they matched OK.  Who is getting old!  It was dark when I picked them out this A.M.

We're just about set for Christmas.  Mon. they have a pot luck at Shults & Dale always has to bring the Danish rolls.  So Sun. aft. I'll start 3 batches & finish them Mon. A.M.  54 rolls will have to be enough.  Sherrie, the one who works out the financial end of buying a car, loves them & she'll take home any that are left over.

Barb fixed a nice fox for Lynn & family.  A dozen rolls & 4 kinds of cookies & a few sugar cookies Scott loves -- the ones Eddie likes.  Lynn doesn't bake so they appreciate them & I love to make cookies.

A Home Depot has opened in Jamestown.  In an ad (USA Today) Dale saw something he'd like & plans to go in tomorrow.  We have a little snow on the ground & it is more like winter.  I still walked home from the Dr.   Last nite Lar & 2 neighbors went to Home Depot & Kim was out with the girls, so they left early (last nite).

Usually I'd buy little things to put in the stockings but this year Barb & Kim decided we should draw names to fill a stocking.  A few years ago I didn't get gifts for the stockings & they were disappointed so I went back to it.  It's nice this year but I had already gotten a few things.

I have my meals planned for Christmas Eve & Day but not the dessert, if I want something special.  Can fall back on Viennette & cookies.  I had that last nite.  I've seen a recipe for an egg nog dessert.  Maybe I'll try that.

Bi Lo has been enlarged & fixed up.  Barb says it is really large.  On Wed next, we will go to Bi Lo as Barb thinks I should see it.  I've been making a list but I'm not sure of how things have been rearranged.  Barb says they have changed things around.  More walking & some elderly people don't like it.

I heard from Mim & Tom & got a picture of Jack.  He is so darling & bright looking.  They will be in Beloit for the Holidays.  I'm sure you know that.

I sent money for a memorial for Genevieve to her church.  They have a foundation & the gift was acknowledged.  It said it will be used for something designated by the family.  I'm sure they have special funds but I don't know that.  Dad's memorial money went into "the pot" & I don't know how it was or is used.  That should change.  People should have a say.

Saw Lilith Johnson at the Beauty Shop.  She said Arlene Hornstrom is in Buffalo with John.  She likes to sleep til noon, doesn't take her medications, etc.  She doesn't want to be with Julie or Beth because the husbands make her get up, get dressed, take her medications, etc.  That is too bad.  She has sugar & must take her medicine regularly & on time.  She doesn't care any more.

Today is the shortest day of the year & soon the days start getting longer.  In our area it means it is day light longer.

A nice sunny Sat, the 22nd.

Got your letter today.  That was a nice tribute Mim wrote for Genevieve.

A nice picture of the cousins.  You all look good.  My Christmas card for Charles was returned.

I can't believe how Andy is changing.  He is growing up.  He'll be shaving before long!  Did Eddie ever find his jacket.  You should be able to find one on sale.  Seems like everything is on sale nowadays.

Had a card from Albert, Cyndi & Julianna with a picture of Julianna in a red dress & hat.  Adorable.  It was nice to hear from them.  Albert must be back from overseas.

Your tree looks very nice, and the table as well.  And the fireplace.  Very festive.

We're having veg. soup & pumpkin pie for supper.  Decided on a dessert for Christmas Eve.  It's a lemon pie but different.  You add 1/2 c. sour cream & whipped cream to the pudding once it has cooled.  Lemon is my favorite & since no one came up with ideas I'll choose my favorite.  No meringue but it should be good.

I think St. John Luth. was the church Min & Lila went to.  When Gen was older she decided to go to Our Savior's & joined there.  Sang in the choir & was active.

I'm watching New England vs. Miami & N.E. is ahead & I'm for N.E.

When you wrote about Eric, I wondered why he would have so much money in his wallet.  Maybe he got paid & went to the party.  Someone must have known about the cash & his weakness & set him up.  Guess it 's the same in all generations.

Mon. Dec., oops it's Wed. Dec. 26th.  A mixed up week because of the holiday.

This A.M. Barb & I went to Bi Lo's & it surely is a nice store now that it is remodeled.  They sent out a coupon worth 10.00 if you spent 50.00 or more, & it is easy to do that.  I got steaks to try our new grill.  Gen called just after you did last nite & she had gotten one from Ed.  Millie has one & likes it a lot.  Millie had a check up & she has high blood pressure.  There is something else but Gen wasn't sure about it.  I'll call her & find out.  Gen has problems making a meal -- getting everything ready on time, etc. but she said getting Christmas dinner went pretty well.  Things seem to bother her more now.

Today I'm wearing my blue shirt.  It is very nice & I like the other blouse & the gloves.  Thanks so much.  We were all very well remembered.  Dale got clothes & he likes them.  I got him jeans, a size larger 34-36 (my pens are going dry).  He was pleased with all he got.  So were Barb, Kim & Lar.  Our tree is holding up very well.  I water it every day.

Received a lovely red poinsettia from Lynn & Bob -- a thank you for the cookies.  When Lynn came by, she thanked me.  Bob came by with a check for Barb & he thanked me.  It wasn't that much & I have fun doing it.

The lucious lemon pie I made didn't turn out so lucious.  Too tart.  Lar ate his piece, but I didn't finish mine.

I didn't know if Kim & Lar had plans for Thurs. but they don't so they'll come as usual.  We're going to their house either Sat or Sun nite for dinner.  Most likely Sun. as they have plans for Fri nite & Sat they hope to go to the Home Depot shopping for the tool set.  Dale loves it & Lar was impressed with it.

My work schedule is upset.  Washed towels & a dark load today but I'm taking it easy.  The dust will wait for me.

Fri A.M. the 28th.  Kind of a mixed up letter.  It's 24 this A.M.  After I get my hair done, I'll have to cash a check for Jan. expenses & go to CVS.  We haven't been to the Mall yet.  Maybe tomorrow.  There should still be some sales.

Sunday, March 25, 2001

I'm not sure of which week you're visiting in Texas.  If you're gone the letter will be waiting for you.

Barb is busy with the TV remote.  Reason:  Nascar racing, men's skating world's finals, Pittsburgh hockey & tennis.  As of now I'm watching Nascar racing but at 2:30 I'll change to golf to see how Tiger Woods is doing.  He climbed to 2nd place after a slow start.

Last Mon it was just Hollertzs, Bensons, and me.  We had a great time; Five Forks is a nice place & the buffet very good.  It was a beautiful day for a drive.

Fri. aft. Barb & I went to Jamestown.  I got a card for Arlene Hornstrom's birthday & I wrote a note to enclose in her card.  I found a short sleeved sweater at Sears that I liked.  We almost didn't' go into Sears but I wanted to use the rest room.  As we entered Barb looked at blouses & found 2 she liked.  I looked around & thanks to another customer who was looking at the sweater, I noticed it.  They were on piles on a shelf, not out where you could really see them.  I really like it & bot it.

Viola Seaquist told me today she will be 90 this year.  She still drives in Warren & is in church every Sun. & active.  It's not bad to be going on 90 if you are active & have your mind.

Forgot to say Bensons have a new Dodge van.  It is so nice & rides well.  Navy blue.  This summer they'll stay home.  It is hard for Pat to walk.  The past few summers they went to Sweden; then Norway: & last summer Germany.  Also an Alaskan cruise.

When Dale went back to work on Thurs. he had to check a transmission on a new van.  He got it out & the reason was a bad part.  He had to put it back together so they could get credit from the Co.  Then he had to take a transmission out of another new van & put it in the first van.  When they order & get a new transmission he'll have to put it back into the 2nd van.

Once when we went to Synod at Greenville, Warren H. got us to skip the aft. session & we went to Sharon & had lunch at the Quaker Steak & Lube.  An interesting place to eat but we didn't have time for any other sightseeing.

Dale said I could use his computer but I don't have much desire yet.  He is still learning about the computer himself.  But I don't think the E Book would interest me.  I like to sit in different places to read like the front porch in the summer.  And i like to walk to the library & look thru the books.  Sometimes I even find a new author.  It sounds like quite a process to learn & conquer.

I got a new jigsaw puzzle I'm working on.  It's calling me now!

Mon AM.  It's really snowing.  Barb will mail.

Sunday, October 29, 2000

It's your birthday, Paul -- wish we were closer to help you celebrate.

Arlene H. was in church today.  John brought her home for the weekend.  John said he doesn't remember too many people anymore but he said I look the same so he knows me.  She mentioned the church Julie's family go to has a black pastor & Arlene likes him a lot.

Talked to Rose this week.  Think I wrote Karen had surgery.  Well Kim saw Karen's close friend & it was plastic surgery -- on stomach, arms & what else I don't know.  They took another mortgage on the house to pay for it.  Insurance wouldn't.  Reminds me of the song "Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets."  Substitute Karen's name.

The torn up lawn is now seeded &^ the edges filled in & seeded, thanks to Larry.  It was so nice to see the 2 cars parked side by side in front of the garage doors.  2 more projects -- new sidewalk & roof.  Time will tell when they get done.  Altho next spring they want to put a brick walk in front of the garage to the back door.  Now the bricks are a little higher & they want it level.  Plenty of brick left for the project.

Should write to Ruth but seeing there is only a little over 3 weeks til Thanksgiving, I'll look for Thanksgiving cards & write then.

Sent an order to L. L. Bean yesterday.  There was a sweater, at a price I could afford, Barb wanted.  But it was sold out.  Lar saw a couple of flannel shirts he liked so some more shopping of gifts was accomplished.  Got my Christmas Club check on Fri. & will cash it tomorrow.  Have to go to PNC bank to get money for monthly expenses.  Christmas Club check comes from Northwest.  $500.00.  Kim got hers also.

I made out a preparation plan for Thanksgiving.  Look for dust in corners -- make sure I know where my recipes are, cookies made, grocery list, etc.  I need it in front of me or I'm apt to forget something.

My mind's a blank so I'll stop & maybe more thoughts will come on what to write about.

You'll never guess what I just did.  I'd gotten Christmas wrap on sale after Christmas so I wrapped the gifts I have for Paul & JoAnna.  Wanted to get them out of my room so I can straighten it up a bit.

Buff. & N.Y. J's are tied 20-20 & Buff has the ball with 1 min. to go.  Barb is at Johanson's & she must be on needles & pins. The Bills win 23-20.

Now I switched to golf.  Tiger is playing & that always makes it more interesting.

Last nite I made chicken & spaghetti but Barb didn't stay for dinner so Dale had her share for lunch.  So I'll be lazy & order pizza for Dale & me.  Dale went to the mall at Lakewood this aft.

Almost forgot.  Dale got a ceiling fan, 1/2 price, at KMart for the garage to move the warm air around.  He has another better kerosene stove that really heats the garage up.  Pretty complete now, with heat, fan & TV.

Kim had a busy weekend a week ago helping others & not leaving enough time for herself.  So when she came over yesterday I was surprised.  Fri. Lar said "there is nothing to snack on".  So Sat. A.M. Kim got up early to make cookies.  When she was getting an egg out of the fridge it slipped out of her hand.  Trying for another, it also slipped out of her hand, so she had a mess to clean up.  That didn't make her very happy.  Lar stopped by as he was going to rake leaves at Carey's.  So he had a couple of cookies.  I'll be making more of the peanut butter, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies as Dale likes them. They are easy to make.

Sheila & Sue (beauty shop gals) don't work on Halloween but dress up & visit around.  They know a teacher at Jefferson so they are in the neighborhood and stop in to see me.  Plan to make cookies & give them each a bag.  They'll dress up as Cheetas -- wear black jeans & jacket.  The masks got 50.00 & they stick to the face.  Went to Fredonia to get them.  They also wear wigs.  They have fun & look good in their costumes.

I see Green Bay was defeated.  Pittsburgh won so Dale will be happy.

Careys are in Fla. for 2 weeks.  They found someone to stay with the dogs.

Tues. Oct. 30.

I'm glad to sit down -- it's been a busy day for me.  Up at 6 am.  After breakfast & reading the paper, I went upstairs & took care of my room.  On Mon. I change Dale's sheets.  Did my washing, made my cooky dough & put it in the fridge.  About 9:15, I walked to the post office for stamps, to PNC Bank to cash my check for Nov. exp.  Then went across the st. & cashed my Christmas Club check.  We've been talking that I should get a C.D. and I asked about it at the bank (Northwest) & put $10,000.00 into a 14 mo. cert. of deposit at PNC.  It is one dad started with $10,000.00 when he was well.  Overheard Mr. Gustafson tell someone C.D.s were the best way for older people.  That spurred me on to do something.  Should make use of my money.  The int will go into the C.D.  Dad had the int. go into his checking account.  The pension & S.S. take care of current expenses.  What is in the checking account is for taxes & any improvements.  I guess one could say I'm doing OK.

Also dusted downstairs, an easy job.  Baked & frosted the cookies.  Fixed supper, cleaned up & now I'm resting & watching TV.  TLC "Code Blue". So I've had a full day for me.

Enjoyed talking with Paul & the boys on Sun.  Eddie made me smile when I asked him if his homework was finished.  He told me he didn't like personal questions!  I'm still smiling.  Am anxious to see Andy again & how he has grown.  Great to have 2 wonderful grandsons.  See you soon.

Saturday, September 23, 2000

It is nice to hear that you & Eddie, Paul, will come for my 80th birthday.  It is hard to believe I will be 80.  Millie is 85 so maybe there are more years ahead for me.  I had a Dr. appt. for Fri. the 13th but I cancelled it & will go the 27th.  Don't care to spend the aft. at the Dr.'s office when you are here.  Maybe we can get to lunch at the Plaza.

Our get together luncheon date for the 25th is postponed.  Ted & Pat Benson are leaving Sun. to visit their daughter & new granddaughter.  Anna & Warren H. will still have company from their anniversary party.  They don't have a very nice day for it -- we've just had a hard shower & more are forecast.

I'm back to reading.  Stayed up last nite til 11:30 pm to finish The Alibi by Sandra Brown.  It was so good.  I've already read several of Anne Perry's novels but never the first one -- The Cater Street Hangman -- a Victorian novel.  It tells how the daughter of a middle class family falls in love with an Inspector policeman who is considered below her class.  They marry & she is a big help in solving the crimes in her novels concerning Insp. Pitt.  I've enjoyed reading them.

I have to put some of my summer clothes away in the attic but I want to be sure the bats are gone.

Was also glad to hear you'll be coming for Thanksgiving.  I've already started to think about plans & menus.   And of course -- cookies!
Dale is driving the Blazer now.  He works til noon this Sat. & after work he plans to align the wheels.  They have a new computerized machine that figures it all.  Dale was telling me how it works & of course I don't understand any of it, but I listen as it is good for him to talk about things at work.

Just about lunch time so more later.

Kim stopped by with Torey for a quick cup of coffee.  She still has to go to the grocery store.

Barbara started her Christmas shopping yesterday.  It is time for gift ideas!  We can talk about it when you are here so please start to think about it.

Sun:  I had the wrong date at the beginning of this letter.  Reason - I have 2 calendars, one on Sept. & one on Oct.  Looked at the Oct. page.  Time goes fast enough.

Arlene Hornstrom was in church today.  Her illness surely has changed her.  She still can't do all the things she'd like to.  Her busy life is a thing of the past.

I'm watching St. Louis at Atlanta -- football on Fox.  Was watching Pittsburgh but I couldn't take it they are so bad.  They are playing Tenn.  Just checked & they are tied 13-13 so my face is red!  Tenn. just got a field goal so it's 16-13.  I'll go back to Fox TV.  I like St. Louis but Barb doesn't -- because of Buffalo.

Buffalo paper had an article on the two Niagara Falls.  The Canadian city is growing & doing well, while the N.Y. Falls is going down due to poor management.  It said people stay an average of 4 hrs. in N.Y. & then go on to Canada so it is the Canadian hotels & eating places that are flourishing while the N.Y. Falls are less than half full and no really good restaurants.  But they have plans for the future.  We always considered the Canadian side prettier.

Pittsburgh just went ahead of Tenn. with a T.D.  Can they keep ahead - time will tell.  They couldn't.

Mon A.M. - the 25th

Lar & Dale are digging up the driveway.  Lar is taking the first load to camp to put by the stream to prevent erosion.  Lar has a jack hammer to break it up.  I'm sure that will take a couple of days to break it up, etc.

Careys wanted Barb to "baby sit" the dogs while they go to Fla. for 2 weeks.  But that is the time Bob & Lynn will go to Fla. & she will take care of their 2 cats & 1 dog.  At Carey's it means she would have to sleep there & that doesn't interest her.  The money isn't that important.  Bert leaves today for 2 weeks in Fla.  Maybe you could see her house on Market St.  The 2nd house beyond the Crary's Art Museum -- the same side.  More later.

After supper:  There is 1 block left to break up.  The side edge is out - Dad always hated that.  He would approve of this project!  Lar & Dale worked hard breaking up the cement & lifting it into the truck.  This first stuff went to Monty's place.  The smaller pieces that are left will go to Lar's place.

Tell Andy we got his tank you notes.

Last nite I watched the story of murders in N. Calif.  Up to 14 murders.  On Discovery Channel 2 hr. program so another late nite for me.  But I had a hard time getting to sleep so I guess it isn't a good pre-bedtime story.

Forgot to add -- Dale said his arms feel a little sore.

Now it's Thurs. Wed A.M. (Guess I'm not with it) the 26th.

All the cement is gone & Lar is leveling it out with his new piece of expensive machinery - the tractor with a back hoe & bucket.  Nice to have it, as it saves a lot of back breaking work.

Lar was here a little after 8 this A.M. -- usually it's been around 9 A.M.  Torey comes along.  I didn't hear them come & Tor comes upstairs to my room -- I didn't expect him & I jumped a little.  He wanted his cheese.  Now he's under the D.R. table.

I want to go over to the bank today.  Lar will have to haul away the excess dirt & Tor goes with him so I should be able to go then.

Want to mail this so I'll bring it to an end with our love to all.

Monday, March 6, 2000

I'll start a letter & keep adding to it.  Just got home from the Dr.  He said there was a membrane in my right eye & he'd "pop" it & I have to go again to get my eyes tested to see if the prescription has changed.  Couldn't do both today.  On Tues of that week I see Dr. McNett & need to get a blood test first.  On Mon the 20th I get my eyes examined.  He lasered it.  Said I'd see better now.  It hasn't been clear vision for that eye -- it's the one that had the cataract.  Beautiful day so I walked home.

Now it's 9:20 & I'm relaxing.  LCW was a workshop & the women tied a quilt.  They are given to "Safe Place" & the women are really thrilled to get a quilt.  It was a nice time & Marge Woods& I worked well together.  I'm watching Homicide now.

Tues A.M.  A few things I forgot.  Arlene Hornstrom had a stroke & is now in rehabilitation.  Do you remember the Rapps -- Jim and Carol.  Had a son, now in California & a daughter Pam.  Carol was sick a lot -- ended with cancer & she died shortly after Dad died.  Carol's father was Jim Greenlund & he died a couple of years ago.  Now his wife Alice, a sister of Myrtle Wallin, & Jim Rapp started going together & will be married in June.  Alice was the mother-in-law but she was Jim Greenlund's 3rd wife.  1 divorce, 1 death.  But I'm happy for them as Alice is a person who needs a husband & Jim Rapp will have a stable home life.  I'm sure the last years of Carol's life were hard ones for Jim & financially backbreaking.  I'm sure Alice was left financially OK.  Of course there is talk but who cares.  I think it will be good for both of them.

Just a note on Wed.  It's soon bedtime.  Dale said he might sell the Monte Carlo to Sam or he might not.  He realizes he doesn't need 3 cars.  He'd never part with the El Camino & he likes the Blazer for winter driving.  What a dilemma.

Fri A.M. the 10th

In this A.M. paper there is an article on the new State Police Barracks being built.  It states that Wm L. Gordon is the Station Commander.  Is the name familiar -- he's Dale's age & Rose's nephew.  Her twin Violet is his mother.

Winter has returned!  We still  plan to go to Jamestown this aft. as only flurries are predicted & Barb has wanted to go for some time.

Yesterday at the beauty shop (nice to have curl again) Louise Borg was having her hair done & she whispered in a disgusted voice "have you heard Jim Rapp is marrying Alice Greenlund?"   I said "yes".  Her hair had just been washed so there was nothing more said.  But I knew what she thought of it.  I'm sure many agree with her.  Marge Ristau does, I know.  And her sister Martha Andersen would.

Last nite Lar did my taxes for me.  I just have to pay state & local taxes.  Dale has his ready to send in & he expects money back as too much is taken out.  He's still wavering on the Monte Carlo & he said now he wants $5,000.00 for it.  Figures he put 7,000.00 in it at least.

He has the El Camino in Carey's garage while they are in Fla.  Both Paula & husband are working in Buffalo; sold their house & haven't found one in Buffalo so Paula wants to store some things in the garage.  So we'll be playing "musical cars" again.

Last Thurs. I mentioned Lar did my taxes so Kim walked Torey home for his exercise.  She checked the messages on the answering machine.  A very sexy voice said "Bambi call me, Bambi call me."  Didn't leave a telephone number & Kim couldn't remember any "Bambi".  She punched whatever it is that gives you the no. dialed but she wasn't familiar with it.  When Lar got home -- he had to check at Carey's -- she asked "who is Bambi".  Larry didn't know & off hand he didn't remember the phone no.  When she played the message Larry said "that's Monty", playing a joke on you.  She was really upset for awhile. So Kim sent him a email.

Fri aft. Barb & I went to Jamestown.  Had lunch at a new Ruby Tuesday close to the mall on mall property.  We had the salad bar & it was excellent.  It was a nice change.  Neither of us did much shopping -- didn't see anything we needed or caught our eye.

Dale & Sam looked at the Monte Carlo this aft. & Dale doesn't think he can part with it.  He put too  much of himself into it to let it go.  When he's not married he can afford the registration, insurance, etc. for 3 cars.

This has probably been enough reading for you for this time.

Interesting to realize Eddie could see a "messy house".  You ended your letter saying "Now I've probably made you feel like cleaning".  The letter arrived on Fri, close to noon & on Fri, Sat & Sun. I just do the necessary -- mainly meal preparation.  I'm rejuvenated by Mon. & start all over again on my schedule.  When you're almost 80 cleaning isn't a priority.

Sunday, August 30, 1998

Barb just got back from a walk & she said it was getting warm.  We've had some humid weather & I for one will be glad to see Sept. & cooler weather   Nites are better for sleeping - more low 60s.  This week the day time highs are to be in the 70s.  That is better baking weather.

Went to the library & read "Innocent Blood" by P. D. James & liked it.  I've heard of her but this is the first book I've read.

Dale was in Rochester for 3 days Wed-Fri this past week.  Topic - transmissions.  Now he's on vacation for a week.  Barb & I hope he'll be around long enough so we could make a fast trip to Jamestown.

Last Mon. Lar & Kim got their CRV & it is really nice.  They are pleased with it.  Good sitting & easier to get in like the van.

I've missed church a few Sun. this month, but I got there today & it was good to be back.  After Labor Day we go back to the 10:45 time & I'll be glad.  Today I didn't have much to do in getting Dad set for the day.  Some mornings are worse than others & to be ready for (;30 was a struggle.

In today's bulletin it was announced that there was a rose to honor the birth of a daughter to Mr. & Mrs. Charles Phillips II.  That is Patty Welsh Phillip's son.  I didn't know he was married - or even working.  He was going to JCC.

I sat by Linda Lyle Ekey in church & they have 4 children.  Oldest a girl is a R.N. & working in Bradford Hosp, next son went to school for carpentry & is home & working.  2nd son started a vocational school in Pittsburgh & hated it so he joined the Army last Apr. & is in Okla - Ft. Sill & is learning to drive trucks that carry rockets & loves it.  Will be home in Oct. for 10 days.  Youngest son at Eisenhower.  All smart kids.  It was a tough summer for them - farm equipment broke down (farm in Akeley) washing machine went & they had to get a new car.

Arlene H. sat with us & next Sat. she leaves to visit Beth & family for a month.  She wonders about going as she hasn't felt well this summer.  I think she has sugar & was in the hosp. one time to get it in control.  She mentioned she saw you walking by.

Mrs. Katherine Sundell died.  She was an Ekey & had a daughter & a son Paul who stuttered.  They both live in Maryland now.   Paul never married but has done well in his job.  Mr. Sundell isn't well either.  She was 83.

This A.M. Dad said to me "I wish you could have a baby".  I said we're too old to have children.  He must have been back in the late 40s when I was trying to get pregnant.  When no one (so we thought) in the family had Parkinson's I never thought this would happen to Dad.  He just seemed to give up & give in to the disease.  He doesn't tremble as much as some - more when something upsets him.

The Mets had a good game Sat the 29th.  A homerun in the 9th with 2 outs & kept L.A. from scoring in the bottom of hte 9th.  Too bad McGwire was thrown out of the game against Atlanta but it didn't look like a strike.  I know you can't argue strikes & balls but people pay to see him play.  And last nite the Steelers won.  Dale was happy.  I watched the 1st half.  It will be nice to have football games again but it smothers baseball.  Too much overlapping of sports.  You'll have to send a picture of Andy in his football attire.  Doesn't sound like he's tired of practice.  Would be fun to watch hi mat these sports, Eddie also.

Were they glad to get back to school.  Do they like their teachers.

We're starting to get political literature.  I don't even read anything from Jim Lynch.  He's a shoo in & I don't like him.  Too much ego but I guess it takes a lot in the job like that & someone has to run for office.

I'm rambling so I'll close with our love to all.

Tuesday, October 14, 1997

I'll start a letter & add to it as time goes by.  It's hard not being able to sit down.  Haven't been able to go to church or do much of anything.  Hoping is trying so you'll have to buy your own birthday gift this time Paul.

It's been awhile since I wrote - did I write we have our new elec. box & it is so nice.  Sometime in the winter Lar will do some wiring for us.

Thanks for the boys' pictures.  They came out real good.  Andy looks a little "heavier" when compared with last year's picture.

The landscaping by the D. R. windows has grown together & is too big.  So Lar will remove some of it & replant.  That will be our birthday gifts from Lar & Kim.  He'll use smaller pieces.

The people across the st. landscaped the corner by Conewango & 3rd.  It is around a big tree, terraced like & so attractive now.  Hard to describe but you'll see it on your next visit.  They used old cement as dividers - hard to visualize but very attractive.

Jack Carey's mother died & the funeral was the 10th.  Lisa & family came & so did Susan but not her husband who had to be in court.  Sat. Carey's left for Fla. for a month's stay at their condo.

Now it's Sun (19th) & I still can't sit.  Today my rear is especially sore - think I did more walking than I should have.  If I can't walk that will be a big disappointment.  I'm using the Micro as a desk now while I'm standing & writing.  Other times I use it as a table to eat.  Later in the day I can sit a little while.

The Xrays showed a thickening by the disc in the back so I'm taking Naprosyn twice a day.  Guess I expected a miracle as it hadn't helped that much.

Arlene Hornstrom stopped by with a birthday card for us as she had been in Buffalo with Julie & family.  There was 20.00 in the card & the thin Swedish molasses cookies which I love & Halloween M&M's for us in a bag.  She's always been so good to us.

Finally heard from Stella - she is now in a 1 room apt. in Mpls. & gets 2 meals a day.  It was so good to hear from her & to get her new address.  I wrote a note to Signe as she sent Dad 10.00 in his birthday card & a note to Arlene.  So now I'm ready to rest while on my back.

Oh yes, the Marlins won - hope they take the series, but I hope Cleveland might.

Oct 24.  Better get this mailed.  Good news about Eddie.  Some just take longer to adjust.

We send our love to you all.