Tuesday, May 2, 2006

What a beautiful day(s) we've been having.  Last Sat. Barb gave the van a good washing.  Wanted to wax it but worked in the garden instead.  Preparing for the flowers we'll get.  She also worked outside the house facing west, trimming some of the shrubbery.  And last Sat. she also washed the front porch getting it ready for summer furniture.  You ask "What did Dale do?"  He had a headache -- it was his Sat to work from 8-12 & in the aft. took it easy.

Last fall Barb planted some daffodil bulbs but only 4 came up & they are very small.  One is blooming & I see another bud.  Maybe they were planted too deep.

Lynn's parents are at the Lake so they are going there tonite to see them. Scott likes to wear his pants low on the hips.  Barb said to him why don't you change to nicer clothes & surprise your parents?  I don't want to do that."  Barb doesn't yell at him but talks nice to him. Then she took the dogs out & got ht email.  When she went in the house she saw that Scott had changed his clothes.  So he listened.  He likes Barb & tells her things he'd never tell his mother.

I called in an order to Penney's.  A 2 piece set for the rocker you gave us.  I sit there a lot & the present set has gotten a lot of wear.  Also ordered a lace tablecloth.  And they had a special.  Spend 25.00 & get free postage.  Both are sale items.

This is Dale's early week & he just came home.  He plans to mow the lawn -- it grows fast.

Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown tomorrow.  We'll have lunch at the Red Lobster.  Barb has some birthday money to spend.  I'd like a pair of tan shoes if I see any I like.  They have a discount shoe store there.  We'll also stop at WalMart -- Barb's idea!

I don't know what Andy will want for graduation but I plan to send a check.  He can choose for himself.  Ditto for your anniversary.  Twenty years -- where has the time gone?

Fri. May 12th, I'll be going out to lunch with Bensons, Hollertzs & Shaffers from Ohio -- at Warren Holiday Inn.  Haven't seen Shaffers for a long time.  They live just over the Pa line so it's easy for them to get here.

Wed, May 3

We went to Jamestown this A.M.  Before we left I got the kitchen garbage ready for tomorrow & put a swiss steak supper in the crockpot.  Just have to make salads.  First we went to WalMart -- they have a new store (in the same location) & it is nice.  Barb chose some petunias for her pots & I chose marigolds.  At BonTon I found a sweater I liked -- to wear now -- pink with colors of trim.  Hope others don't choose the same thing.  Also got a couple more tank tops -- on sale, and a knit shirt also on sale.  I told Barb don't let me spend any more on tops.  Yesterday I sent an order (telephone) for the tablecloth & rocker set I want.  Fun to spend, spend, spend!  As long as I can pay for it I'm OK.  We had lunch at the Red Lobster & enjoyed it.

Barb really has the outside landscaping looking good.  Now she doesn't say Dale should help any more.  She realizes he is on his feet all day & says his long legs make it harder for him to kneel & do the work.  Getting things in order doesn't take that long.  The lawn moving & sweeping up goes on all summer.  He does the edging so he does his share.

Dale just came home & as soon as he changes his clothes, he goes & sits outside in the sun.  Starting his tan early.  We expect showers tomorrow, but they are needed.

Tonite & tomorrow nite I can watch the Mets, thanks to Pittsburgh playing at Shea.

Fri. A.M.

Had my hair cut & set & now I reread your letter while drinking coffee.  Glad to hear news of the Nelson families, i.e., Carolyn's husband & the wedding, etc.  Good to know you are rid of the catheter & that all is going well.  It will soon be a memory the way time flies.

The flower pots Barb filled are looking nice.  We didn't get the showers they forecast & now there is a fire ban.

On Fri, I don't do much -- 2 loads of wash -- just take it easy after a busy week.

Tuesday, March 7, 2006

Read your letter -- a very complete report.  Your Dr. & his nurse sound like very caring people.  I'm sure all will go well for you in this new experience.  I'm sure glad you had a complete physical & caught this in the early stages.  You're lucky to be in an area with good doctors.

Last Fri. Bensons & Hollertz came for lunch.  I had a 1 pm Dr. appt. so we met at 2 pm -- Holiday Inn.  They quit serving lunch at 2 pm but a woman in charge said we could eat in the bar area & order from the menu.  I wonder if she is the owner's wife.  I'll ask Kim tomorrow. She came by & talked to us & said anytime we wanted a late lunch just say Cathy said we can do it.  She was a very interesting person.  They plan to meet in Apr. again & at the Holiday Inn.  We were the only ones in the bar area so we weren't bothered with anyone smoking.  We enjoyed each other's company.

Today I made a cake for dessert tomorrow nite & of course I had to sample it.  It came out good -- made from scratch.

Last Sat. Wrrn paper had a very interesting article on the '56 flood in Wrrn.  I know you will enjoy reading it.  The town was really flooded.

The Commissioners are having a time here accusing each other.  David Bauer is the one who starts things -- he was the same when he was pres. of the school board.  Too full of himself.

Barb gets a number of catalogues featuring clothes and I've seen some tops I like.  So far I haven't followed thru with an order, but now I think I will.  I never see anything I like in the stores.  I don't think older ladies count when it comes to decent styles.

Before we went grocery shopping, we went to the Mall.  I needed to get some sympathy cards -- Jack Bjorkquist died.  Barb wanted to look at shoes & I always like to look at shoes. We went to "The Shoe Dept" & they had some Dockers that I tried on & got a pair.  Not exactly a moccasin but similar & so comfy.  A taupe color, not really a tan.  On sale plus 50% off so they only cost $9.99.  I couldn't believe it & couldn't resist!

Last Sun I watched the Mets play Puerto Rico -- Mets lost.  Mon. they were on again vs. Cleveland.  They won.  A lot of new names but some will go down to other teams until they are ready for the big one.  I think they will field a winning team this year!!

Why I like & appreciate Paul's letters.
1)  Usually I get one every week.
2)  They are so informative.
3)  Some part will make me laugh.
4)  I hear what is going on in your lives -- family, jobs, pleasures, Andy & Eddie, etc. etc.
Thank you so much.

Wed. aft.

Last Fri, the 3rd, I had a Dr. appt.  All is well.  My blood pressure was 130/90./  I had a blood test, but I can't remember the reason.  Whatever they were looking for was a little low, so I'll have another blood test in 4 months.  The Dr. said I want you to have thyroid scan & it was this aft. at 2 pm.  First they gave me a shot for color.  Not dye but I forget what is was.  I was a little shook up over the experience.  Waited for 10 min & then called in. I had to lie on a long bed like with a pillow under my head & a pillow under my knees.  It took about 15 min, 4 shots.  Camera overhead & they moved it closer & then from one side to the other.  Then I was ready to go home about 2:30 pm.  Barb didn't wait there, so the receptionist called home for me & she picked me up. She was sure I'd have to call Larry for a ride, as she takes Scott home about 3:15.  She was thinking of her experiences but from what I've had before I knew it wouldn't take that long.

I'm watching baseball:  Cuba vs. Panama.  Last of the 9th, 2 out, bases loaded & they are tied.  Pan. is up.  Then I'll watch Canada vs. USA.  It is fun to watch.

Dinner preparations are started but it is soon time to get going again.

Now it's 8:30 & the kitchen has been put in order again.

We had a nice dinner with Lar, Kim & Torey.

Tomorrow Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown.  If I don't find any clothes I like, I'll send an order from one of the catalogues.

I'll mail this from Jamestown.  If we don't' go out on Fri. the letter isn't mailed until Mon.

Did you see the movie Crash?  A lot of people were surprised when it won the Oscar.  That is what I read in the newspaper.  I watch old movies on TMC.

Hope things are getting better for you Paul.

Thursday, March 2, 2006

Yesterday's forecast of icy roads came true -- no school today.  Last nite that is what Kim hoped for.  A long weekend for the kids.  Teacher's meeting on Fri & Mon. is parent-teacher conferences.  Dale almost slipped this A.M. when he started his car.  He put salt on the walks so I had no trouble getting the garbage to the curb.

This A.M. I started dinner rolls as the ones in the freezer were used up.  A good day to do it, as the 1st Thurs. of the month there is a lunch meeting at work for Dale.  Also have dinner in the crockpot -- it has become a favorite for Dale & me.  Barb hardly never wants to eat it. Only steak is in her diet plans.

Last nite Kim told us her Aunt Dede fell down the basement steps.  She has a basement apt. ion her daughter's home.  She does her washing upstairs & was going to take the basket to the basement.  Her daughter told her to leave it & she'd bring it down after her shower.  She also berated her for wearing thongs going up & down the stairs.  In the bathroom she heard a thud & upon checking Dede was at the bottom of the stairs, head all bloody.  She called 911 & she broke some bones in her neck & had a concussion.  Was out for several hours.  She must be in her 70's.  She is alert now.  To make matters worse, her son showed up at the hosp. drunk.  Kim said "that's my family".

I should be able to have a fresh roll for lunch with our current favorite, thuringer.  We get it at BiLo & it is very good, but expensive.  It was a favorite growing up.  Another favorite was spiced ham, but I never see that.

Fri. March 3

This aft. at 1 pm & had a Dr. appt.  All is well -- blood pressure 130/60 & that is good for me. They took blood for some test.  And the Dr. wants me to have a thyroid scan that is set for next Tues aft. at the hospital.  Then at 2 pm Warren & Anna picked me up & we met Ted & Pat at the Holiday Inn.  They stop lunch service at 2 pm  but said we could sit in the bar area & order from the menu.  Just the 5 of us & we enjoyed our visit & lunch.  They made plans to come her in April so I can be along.  Before we left the woman who said we could have lunch in the bar came by & asked how things were.  We visited with her & she said we could come anytime if it was 2 or after & get lunch.  She said tell them "Cathy said so!"  I wonder if she could be the owner's wife.  I'll have to ask Kim -- she knows just about everyone.  I can't remember their name but it was in the paper recently.

I watched golf when I got home.  There is a new young player from Spain & he is good. Right now the top 4 are tied -- Tiger, Phil M, the Spanish fellow & the 4th name won't come to mind.  The Spanish fellow had pink pants, low cut waits, white knit shirt & belt & he wears clothes well  The girls will be after him.  He went to college in Fla.

Yesterday my nose dripped like a faucet.  It was blow, blow, blow.  I finally took an Airborne tablet & rested after lunch & that helped a bit.  Took another one later & went to bed early. Today no blowing so I was happy.

This coming week the temperatures are suppose to be more normal.  Sure hope so -- I'm ready for weather that is warmer.  Low 20's was what we reached today.  The sun made it appear warmer until the wind started blowing.

The nice thing about the crockpot meal that are leftovers & they make a 2nd meal.  I really like that.

I haven't worked on my puzzle much this week but it will wait for me.  I'm been playing Solitaire.

Nice to read about baseball in the papers.  I wonder if we'll get the Mets broadcasts this year.  Maybe I'll have to watch Pittsburgh as we can get their games.  I like the idea of ala carte TV  Wonder if it will come to pass or just idle talk.

Tuesday, February 14, 2006

After Dale left for work this A.M., I turned & watched a great movie Mrs. Parkington with Greer Garson.  Missed the beginning but sat watching it til near 9 A.M.  It was so good. Then I took my shower, etc. & about 10 A.M. washed the kitchen floor.  My back has been bothering me a bit so I sat & rested with an ice pack on my back.  Started a new jigsaw puzzle & put some pieces in it.  It goes together faster this time.  Then fixed lunch for Dale, he work til 8 pm, cleaned up & watched my soaps.  When Barb left to take Scott home, I did my ironing, mostly pressing my slacks &^ 2 shirts for Dale.  Barb is making chili & Dale can have that so I don't have to make a meal.  I'll fix scrambled eggs & toast for me.

I was shocked at Mimi's news & wondered why Dad never told me that bit of news.  I'm sure I wouldn't forget anything like that.  I thought when you forgave a person that ended the issue. Guess it didn't with Ruth.  I tho't Rudy graduated from Augustana, another bit of news I missed.  Poor Ruth, I'm sure Ruth needled him more than once.  They were in La Porte awhile when Rudy worked in a funeral home.  I often wondered why he had work red in a factory job & didn't use his education.  Guess there's one in every generation!

You mentioned the Buff. paper -- there is now no evening paper, just the A.M. edition.  Too much T.V. competition?

Did you noticed that the Caldwell girl your age died.  Lung cancer -- she couldn't give up smoking.

Marilyn Thelin Passenger is in an Erie hospital recovering from a lung operation that is cancer.  She never smoked.  Erma Thelin was hospitalized in Wrrn. with a blood infection.

Barb was cleaning the small closet in her room & found some papers, etc.  Lar & Barb's report cards & Dad's high school graduation picture.  He is so young looking & cute.  Barb is sure "it is a picture Paul would like."  She's love copies for her & Lar & Dale but they won't reprint photos.  She wishes they'd make an exception seeing it is such an old picture.  I'm sure he graduated in 1935.  Maybe it was '33 as he graduated from Augustan in '39.  He went to college 1 semester, worked the rest of the next year & returned to college in the fall. He was very frugal & graduated from seminary with no debts & very little help from the family.

Yesterday I had a nice surprise in the mail.  A Valentine from Andy with a note on it.  I was so thrilled to hear from him.  Give him my love & thanks.  We'll celebrate Wed., tomorrow, when Lar & Kim come.  I got their favorite candy & Barb plants to pick up some lottery tickets.  Such gamblers we are!

Last Sun. Pat & Ted Benson came to Warren to go to church with me.  We were suppose to go out to eat after church, but I couldn't go.  We had our annual meeting right after church & I stayed for that.  But soon all the others plan to come to Wrrn. for lunch & Ted & Paul will pick me up.  It will be nice to see them all again &^ find out what is happening in their lives.

Friday, February 17

At 6 AM, I looked for the newspaper.  It was very windy & I hope to get it before it blew all over.  I wasn't successful.  I had to go outside to retrieve it -- it had blown all over, was wet, torn & unreadable.  We have a mat by the front door, storm door that opens, a mailbox so you think the kid could put it somewhere safe.  We called & got another one.

Your letter came on Thurs. this week.  That is wonderful news about your trip to Fla.  The boys will really enjoy it & a good deal as well.  Have fun. what are the dates?  That is great news about Andy's basketball & that is he getting more playing time.  Great height isn't always everything.

It is a good day & maybe weekend to stay inside & read a good book.  Don't' have a good book so I'll finish my puzzle & maybe start another one.

Yesterday I made 2 batches of cookies.  Froze part of the dough & baked 3 pans of cookies. A sugar cooky with a almond Hershey on top.  Bake the cooky first &^ then put a kiss in when you take the pan out of the oven.  They are good.  Then the chocolate cooky with the Andes mint on  top to melt as icing.  So I have something with my coffee!

I'm enclosing a check made out to you Paul.  But save it for the boys to spend in Fla. $50.00 each.

I've watched some of the Olympics & enjoyed the snow boarding & skating.  But with NASCAR starting on Sun. in Daytona there is a lot going on & we 've had that on during lunchtime.  Tiger plays in golf this week In Calif. so we have that on plus the regular shows I like.

Tuesday, May 5, 2005

Last week I got a letter from John & it surprised me.  Told me about Fe (pronounced Fay) his Philipino girlfriend & sent pictures of their trip to Aruba.  John looks very happy.  He wears glasses now & in one picture you could be brothers, except he carries more weight & has a fuller face.  He took Gen to a day care center but she didn't like it.  He is still keeping the farm up & 2 of his buddies help him.  He has planted 2000 Christmas trees in back of the house that was his grandparents.  It will be several years before they are grown.  Gen would have a fit if she knew they were together in Aruba.  Now John has freedom & is better off.

I called Millie east Sat.  That was the day of the family birthday party.  She is feeling fine again.  Allan, knowing she had lost her appetite, bro't her chicken soup, turkey soup, spag. & meat balls & chili -- he had made them all.  He is 63 & retired.  Is pres. of the "Friends of the Library" (they live in Westfield) & has sponsored several parties to make money.  One in their backyard & it was a beer tasting party & Allan had made finger food to go with it.

I finally got 3 boxes of Schwans chicken thru Sheila.  He said he would stop at the house last Sat. but he didn't.  Hope he does sometime.

We went to Erie & I thin kit will be my last trip.  Too much walking & I like to stay near Barb so it is hard to shop for what is on my list.  Jamestown is better for me.  We wish a Target would come in the area somewhere.

I was ironing last week & my iron quit.  Dale looked at it & fixed it so I won't need to get a new one.

My 2nd blueberry pie came out better -- the crust around the edge wasn't as thick.  I cut it away as I should have done with the 1st one.  Now I have to get the cut out in the top crust centered so it looks better.  It is a good recipe & taste good.

We are looking forward to tomorrow.  Why?  Warmer weather & sunshine are on the way!  Oh happy day.  The furnace has been running to keep us warm when it's in the 30's outside.

The doorbell rang this A.M. & it was the new Schwan man -- they got someone to take the route.  He'll come every other Tues.

Sat. nite we are invited to Lar & Kim's camp to celebrate Mother's Day.  It should be in the hi 60's, so we can be outside.

We went to the library yesterday & I got 4 books.  2 by Fern Michaels, 1 by Karen Robards, 1 by Mary Baloch.

I got an invitation to Ted & Pat Benson's 50th wedding anniversary party in June.  I think it is the 50th of his ordination as well.  In June sometime.

Thurs. May 4

Yesterday I decided to try to finish my second book.  So at 7 A.M. (Dale's early week) I started reading for an hour.  When I looked at the clock it was close to 8:15.  I shut the book & did dishes & then got dressed, etc.  Read some more & finished the book.  Started dinner rolls & finished them after lunch.  Baked a pie shell for the banana cream pie I made this A.M.  A new recipe I got in the Sun. paper.  You fold whipping cream into the custard.  It looks good.

Barb was up early yesterday so she could be at Lynn's at 11:30 to help Scott (who didn't go to school) write a book report on Tom Sawyer which is due tomorrow.  She had to go to Bert's first.  Lynn said she'd see that Scott read the book, but she never did.  She tanked Barb many times for helping Scott.  I asked her if she will be helping him thru the high school years.  They are pushing the kids so they'll do well on the 8th grade tests.  My high school subjects must seem like pap in regard to what they learn today.

Yesterday aft. I started the 3rd book & finished it this A.M.  No TV last night.  I really admire authors who can write books that make one want to read til it's finished.  I just wish I could spread my reading time out.  One more book to go.  I'll have to try to save it for a couple of days.

It warmed up today & was so nice.

Lar tilled the garden for Barb.

Will enclose John's letter & a picture.

Thursday, February 3, 2005

As I look outside, I see snow flurries & I tho't that report was sunshine & clear for today.  The temp is 32.

Last Mon.  Barb & I went to Jamestown.  No tax on clothes for a week.  I bo't a pair of slacks.  Barb got a treadmill at Seats but it won't be delivered until Mar 4.  It was on sale. After getting groceries, we decided against eating lunch there & came home.

Dale says they use the flash drive working with cars.

Last Sun. Ted & Pat Benson came to church with me.  Afterwards we went to Perkins to eat.  We had a nice visit.  In June Ted celebrates his 50th year of ordination & they celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.  Their children are planning a party for them.

Last nite Kim was telling about a 9th grade boy who would be in one of her classes this semester.  Passing in the hall, he told he he'd be in one of her classes.  She answered and I expect you to behave in my class or you'll be sent to the office.  She's been waiting for him to misbehave but he hasn't & it has surprised her.  He has even been very helpful to her -- putting things away, etc.  I guess if they teacher expects you to behave, one can.  They have 2 classes going in the gym & he has the other teacher.  He doesn't behave & is constantly being yelled at.  Guess you have to demand respect.

It's 9:15 & I don't hear Barb yet.  Now I do.  I clean the bathroom & do a load of towels.  Her time clock & my time clock don't get together.

Our organist resigned to care for her family.  19 year old grandson in Erie whose mother died.  Last Sun. a young man played & did well considering the liturgy is new to him.  He plays very well so I hope we can keep him.

I plan to try the potatoes you made except I'm not sure if I'll use feta cheese.  Maybe I've seen it in the stores.  I don't know.

I'm not much of a worker anymore.  I did get the bathroom cleaned & the towels are in the washer.  I've been playing Solitaire & I have a puzzle on the card table.  I like to drink coffee & be lazy.

Last nite for supper I fixed chicken, mashed potatoes, corn pudding & apple pie for dessert. As long as I know the menu, it's not a job.  The job is planing meals & trying to make it interesting.  I was going to try a macaroon pie but I stuck to what I know they like.  I'm enclosing the recipe.  I got ads from Better Homes & Garden cookbook.  It was a lower price so I sent for it.  I like to "read" recipe books.

In yesterday's paper an article by a Coop. Extension person remembered wash day as a child.  It bro't back memories.  Mon. was washday & if it was nice weather the clothes line filled the back yard.  In the winter they hung in the basement.  It was the wringer washer. One summer friends were driving to Maine & offered to take my mother & 1 child.  I was the lucky one.  We visited my Uncle Carl & family in Caribou, Maine.  They had a potato farm & 5 children.  Oldest one married & living at home & working with his dad.  At home Gen decided to do some washing & got her hands stuck in the wringers.  Don't remember if she finished the wash.  She didn't break any bones.  I remember her saying she sat at the piano to exercise her hands.  Dad dated my cousin Carlotta (Maine cousin) before he met me, but I guess she wasn't the one for him.

It's Fri A.M.  Just got my hair "done".  It's beautiful out -- will be in the 40's.  Enjoyed your M. Monroe discourse.  She had it all but still wasn't fulfilled.  Anything more happen about that 9 yr. old boy.  It's so sad.  Something is lacking in his life.  Discipline most likely.

Sunday January 2, 2005

Guess what our "divided" household is doing?  Watching the Steelers & the Bills & Dale & my team is ahead so far.  Barb keeps saying the Steelers don't have to win but they play to win.  Dale & I are happy.

Yesterday was beautiful weatherwise & the noisy motorcycles were out.  Dale washed his cars & took his white "summer" car to Jamestown.  He got a DVD for himself.

Wed. Barb & I went to Jamestown.  Didn't buy much.  We had lunch at Ruby Tuesday & I enjoyed my lunch of tender pot roast, mashed pots. & broccoli.  It was delicious.

Thurs. nite we went to Lar & Kim's & had a nice evening.  She served baked ziti & it was delicious.  We all like pasta.  Kim made a pecan pie & i made an apple pie.

Yesterday I started the New Year by making dinner rolls & a coffee cake.  After lunch I* took a short nap & then took the decorations off the tree -- the tree & all the decorations are put away for another year.  I like things back to normal.  Kim keeps the tree up longer as well as the decorations.

I mentioned that Elsie Yaegle will be 90 this month & they are planning a party for the 8th at church.   Today Betty told me Elsie had a slight stroke over the holidays.

Barb sent Millie & Gen a picture of the 3 of us.  So Millie sent pictures of her apt. & of herself.  Her place looks very nice.  I can see why she is happy there.

I'm working on the puzzle & it is a fun one to do.

Later -- I just clogged up the kitchen sink & made a job for Dale.  It could be a blessing in disguise as when Dale opened up the pipe, he found a plastic picnic knife there.  How it get there is beyond me -- guess I wasn't watching closely enough. He didn't get disgusted with me.

The Steelers beat Buffalo & I can't believe how "down in the dumps" Barb is.  She was so sure Buff. would win.  To make it worse, Dale & I are happy.

My puzzle is almost finished.  I'll try to finish it now.

Jan 4, Tues.

Thanks for the pictures -- they are good.  Noticed the watch strap on your arm.  Barb is so happy the boys like their pictures.  She showed them to Lynn & Marisa saw them & tho't they were cool.

Enjoyed reading the article on Green Bay, the team, etc.  Read parts of it to Dale.  The $500.00 to start the games sure paid off.

Yesterday Dale jammed his finger & it is sore.  The nail is black & he has to be very careful at work.  If he hits it, it pains.  Tonite he said it is better.  A couple of fingers just healed up & now another one.

Jan 5. Wed.

I got the kitchen floor washed & garbage ready for Thurs.  I'll ad a few more words.  We have some snow -- it isn't snowing  now (10:30 A.M.) but more is expected this aft.  Storm warning thru Thurs A.M.

Barb shortened 2 pr. of jeans for Dale.  He told her I'm giving you a tip.  She tho't he meant he was going to give her some advice but he gave her 10.00 for doing the job.  That was nice of him.

I haven't been upstairs since I got dressed & Barb never gets up til 9 A.M.  She still isn't up so she must not be feeling well.

I finished my puzzle & have started another one.

Last Fri. Barb & I went to lunch.  We wanted to go to the coffee place for soup & dessert but it was closed til 3 pm.  So we went to Holiday Inn.  And Ted & Pat Benson, Ted's sister & their oldest daughter (lives in Portland, Ore) were there for lunch.  We talked a few minutes & I went to our table.  We had a nice lunch.  We stopped at BiLo for some last minute groceries & what a mad house.  Both in the store & in the parking lot.  Was glad to get out of there safely.

Thurs A.M. the 6th 7:45 A.M.

No school today -- snow & icy roads.  Was awakened at 5 A.M. from the noise of plowing snow.

I got a kick out of your story of having to go to the downstairs bathroom at Cindy's.  You'll have to limit your liquids after 6 pm  Ha! Ha!

Your thanksgiving turkey looks lushious, or would delicious be a better word.  It looked good, and so did your table.

Sunday, October 17, 2004

I don't know who told Lar & Kim the food at Holiday Inn was good as 4 of the 5 were disappointed.  Only Lar enjoyed the prime rib.  When the 3 of us went there in Apr. we all enjoyed our meal.  Last nite Barb & Dale had what they had in Apr. & you couldn't recognize that it was the same meal.  Maybe because they also had a wedding reception.  But we enjoyed being together.  Barb wore new new rose jacket & a matching blouse & she looked so nice.  Her hair is starting to grow in & she is more than ready to shed her cap.

I just watched Cleveland beat Cincinnati -- it was an interesting game.

When we went to Erie Barb got 2 posters 2'x3' & she framed them & hung them in her room & they really do look nice.

Now I'm watching Pittsburgh at Dallas.  The Steelers have a rookie Q.B. & he is really good. You'll be hearing about him if he stays healthy.

I got an electric blanket for my birthday & I'm already using it & liking the warmth.

Mon. the 18th

Your letter came this A.M. & no one was home when I read it.  You're right, Paul, I was laughing when I read "Mom, you can stop laughing now" & it made me laugh even harder. So hard tears came to my eyes.  A good laugh is good for the soul, so thanks Paul.    I'm smiling as I write this.  How long will it take Andy to break you down & say yes to a 3rd car? Should I bet on it?

Barb couldn't start the van this A.M. so she walked to Bert's.  Bert let her (Barb) use her car so we were able to get groceries.  I didn't want to break up my day on Tues. as I have to wash the kitchen floor & do other things for Wed.  I've tried to call Warren & Anna but no answer.  I'll try again later tonite.  They could be visiting one of their kids.  Called to see if they could come on Wed.

Ed is too hard on himself.  I like his picture.

Lynn told Barb that she & Scott were shopping & Scott wanted to buy condoms.  Why, he said kids were taking them to school & blowing them up like a balloon.  Poor Lynn & he's not even a teenager.  He doesn't like to study & he just writers answers out of his head to get it over.  He is being tutored for an hour after school Tues. & Thurs.  Other days Barb works with him.  Bad, bad marks.

I'm watching Yankees at Boston.  Millie is rooting for Boston.  I hope Boston can stay ahead.  2-1 Boston at 7 pm, our time.  It's mute as I don't like most of the announcers.  They all talk too much -- a running conversation & half of the time it's not on baseball.

I see Green Bay won over Detroit. And the Steelers won over Dallas.  Finally a good G.B. And Wisc. is doing great in college football.  We watched on Sat.

I'm sure I mentioned Target is coming to Jamestown.  Behind the Mall -- they bot the little golf course.  They also used to have miniature golf there.  Nothing started yet -- sure hope it's true.

Tues. aft the 19th

I stayed up til 10:30 last nite watching the N.Y. vs. Boston game & it was the 13th inning.  I couldn't stay up any longer as this is Dale's early week. The 1st thing this A.M., I turned on the TV to get the scores & was happy to see Boston won.  Because the game was so long, we didn't get to see any of the Astro-Cardinal game & the newspaper said it was a well pitched game for both sides.  Astros won.  I remember their manager as a player -- he was a scrappy player.  I tho't it was ironic that Jeff Kent, former Met, won the game with a homer. He doesn't seem that well liked.

Thurs. the 21st

Happy Day.  Boston really beat the Yanks.  Now I hope they go all the way.

We had a nice visit yesterday when Ted & Pat were here.  I tried to get Warren & Anna but they didn't answer the phone.  I like it best when the 3 families are together.  Have more fun.

The problem with the van was the battery & it was under warranty.

I'm out of some of my meds so I'll ride over with Barb & walk home.  It's misting out -- that will remind me of Seattle weather.  Did we really live in Wn -- it seems so far in the distance now.  She took me home so I didn't walk.

When you get the Warren paper, dated the 20th you'll read about a big drug bust with many Warrenites included.  It was the N.W. part of the state.  The leader was from Franklin but Erie wasn't included this time.  The pictures are on the front page.  About 11 from Warren. This quiet little town!

Lynn got a book for Barb on holistic healing.  Barb has given up sweets & is on a healthy diet.  Lots of fruits & veggies -- not too much meat.  I got a turkey breast for supper tonite. Made apple crisp for dessert.

I look forward to your letters!!!

I like the D.R. chair's material.  Very pretty.

Monday, October 11, 2004

This old lady is tired out after a busy day.  We left for Erie before 9 A.M.  Went to Target first & shopped there.  Next was lunch at the Olive Garden.  I love their soups & I had the soup, salad, & bread sticks.  Didn't appreciate the salad as it comes with dressing.  Barb had the salmon dinner & we waited awhile for hers.  I finished so I added dessert -- lemon cream cake & it was delicious.  Then to the Mall & we found a few gift & I splurged on myself. Went to Burlington Factory & looked at coats.  Couldn't find a long one I liked & Barb saw a shorter length & it looked nice so I got it.  A London Fog in a cranberry color.  The lady said a nice color for you hair.  Then to Penney's but didn't find anything for me.  Then to Kaufman's &  I saw an Alfred Dunner outfit on sale.  They are a dime a dozen but it looks nice on me.  It is a purple/pinkish tweed jacket that buttons to the neck, no collar.  and plain purple pants.   Again they lady said ti will go nice with your white hair!  Found an everyday pair of navy shoes.  Then to Sears.  Barb found a gift for Dale.  I went to the women's dept & found a pink top I liked.  Buy  one, get one free.  Knit with a neck zipper in the back -- the 2nd a bright blue.  So I did pretty well for myself.  And the Penney's order is yet to come. They are waiting for 1 item to come in.  We stopped at the grocery store for a couple of items & then on to Warren, getting home at 4:30 p.m.  Got things out of the car, had a cup of coffee & started washing my Mon. loads.  It's 8:42 & the towels are soon ready to put in the dryer.  And I made hamburgers for Dale & me.  An easy meal.  Barb finished the salmon & broccoli from lunch.  Now I'm watching Braves vs. Houston & won't see the end of the game.  Bedtime will be calling me.

Last Sat Barb & I went to the Farmer's Market & got some apples & real maple syrup.  Made pancakes & Dale likes the syrup a lot.  Might to next Sat. & get a quart -- just got a pint.

Last Fri. we went to our Mall.  Barb decided she got the wrong size blazer & she had taken off the tickets they put on, so she couldn't exchange it.  She bo't 2 more, the deep rose-pink & a med. blue & a blight blue sweater.  She liked the sweater so much, she decided to get a pink one.  But she saw a navy cardigan with a zipper, she liked better & got it.  She bemoaned the fact she didn't buy anything for herself today.  But buying 2 outdoor jackets, 2 blazers & 2 sweaters, what more does she need.  She did get a pair of p.j.'s.

When I got home today I put my purchases on the davenport so Dale could see them. He always asks "What did you buy?"

Thank you for Ed's pictures  They are so nice.  My handsome grandsons.  It's fun to see how they have matured from year to year.

The A.M. after Oct 12

I had trouble getting to sleep last nite & as a result didn't wake up until 6:47 A.M.  Dale had his shower, etc.  I jumped up & got things ready for breakfast & Dale's snack.  And I had to find out the baseball score.  Was I surprised to see Astros 12 - Braves 3.  Was I happy -- I was in 7th heaven as the phrase goes.  Poor Andy, poor Barb -- she didn't want the Texans to win.  You can guess why -- someone's home state!!

I did clean the bathroom this A.M. -- Mon's job usually.

The colors were beautiful on the ride to Erie.  Many deep reds this year.

I'm taking it easy today.

Thurs. the 14th.  Last nite I made a new recipe:  baked ziti.  I tho't I had gotten ziti but couldn't find it, so I used rotini.  It was very good, for a change.  Both Dale & I had leftover ziti for lunch.  He said "that was pretty good."  I'll make it again but I'll make sure I have ziti pasta.

I keep forgetting to call Gen in the evenings.  So I called her Wed. A.M.  The phone rang a long time before she answered.  She said something happened & it was terrible to tell.  Then she told me she was carrying something going down the cellar & she fell & hurt her side.  So she was taking it easy.  I'm wondering if John is beginning to think she shouldn't be alone & maybe thinking of putting her in a home.  She would hate that and she doesn't want anyone in her house to help her.  Something has to happen.  She can't even make herself a cup of coffee.  I have so much to be thankful for.

Barb said Bert really needed someone to be with her at all times.  She is getting very forgetful.  She needs a relative.  Another thing I'm thankful for is that I"m not alone, but have Barb & Dale at home.

Ted & Pat Benson will be coming to lunch next Wed. the 20th.  It will be nice to visit with them.  Mon. & Tues. I'llbe busy making sure things are in order.  I plan on a regular meal with chicken as the meat.

Thursday, July 29, 2004

Here it is Thurs & I'm just starting a letter.  Sheila is going to the King of Prussia Mall tomorrow so I had my hair done today.  They are so busy they're working til 10 pm.  They hate to turn anyone away.  Last Sat. they had to turn down 3 perms.  They are looking for another girl.  Interviewed 2 girls but found them wanting.

Today Larry & Kim are going to a soccer game in Pittsburgh with another couple.  They will stay overnite & be home by noon tomorrow.  Betsy Griffin will take care of Torey -- also when they go to Fla.

Yesterday we went to the library & I got 2 books.  Finished Lavyrle Spencer's book Separate Beds & it was a good book.  Also got Some Pleasure There to Find by Elizabeth Rossiter. No good.  Then I went to the bank to cash a check & to Bilo's.

I sure hope that we will have less rain in Aug.  We need sunshine to dry things up.  Even the veggies aren't growing.

My order from Penney's came & I'm pleased.

Barb gets so sock from the chemo, that she decided to give it up, come what may.  I don't know what to think but it is her decision.  I don't like it, but what can I do.  Hope it's not a mistake.

I've written about Dale fixing the leak in the basement.  We had a heavy rain this past week &^ no water.  So it is fixed.  Now he's painting the wall.  It is to the 4 of you advantage to keep the house in good order & Dale is doing his part.

Yesterday Ted Benson called.  He & Pat would be in Warren & wondered if I'd go out to lunch with them.  I never say no.  We went to Perkins & had a nice visit.  She is in her 70's but had to have a hysterectomy but all is well.  No cancer.  She did have a lump removed from her breast 17 years ago.  She gets real upset when she has to see a Dr.  In the car she said "I can feel my blood pressure going down."  Next time they come to Warren, I'd like them to come to lunch here.  They always pay for my lunch.

I wrote a letter to Ruth to enclose in a birthday card.

Fri. A.M. 7:30.  All is quiet here.  Dale is at work & Barb is still in bed.  I just read the lessons for Sun. I like to think how the pastor might preach on the Gospel.

Just made a menu for when Pat & Ted come to lunch -- probably in Sept.  Half the fun for me is the planning.

The new bridge is 10-14 days behind its schedule due to all the rain & they had to open the Dam to release waters & that didn't help.  Maybe a nice fall, hopefully, will help.  Suppose to open the middle of Nov.  21st, I think.

Saturday, January 31, 2004

Scott was sick yesterday so Barb went up there as soon as I was thru getting my hair done. So we didn't get to the Mall. This A.M. we went to CVS for a prescription refill & then to the Mall.  Barb got a pair of jeans plus 3 blouses -- 1 style -- 3 different colors.  Blue, off white & tan.  The latter will be a birthday gift from me.  It's a style I like.  I got a pr. of slacks -- my size 16 are too large, esp. in the seat & I don't  like that, & a top on sale -- jacket type, nice for cold days.  I wear 3 layers to feel comfortable in the house.  I only turn up the thermostat on Thurs. when Lar & Kim come.

Last nite Ted Benson called & said they'd like to go to church with me Feb. 1.   He has a small church in Kanesholm much like Chandlers Valley.  They don't heat the church in Jan. & Feb. & no one needed his services so they decided to come here.  Probably want to hear & see our new pastor.  They will pick me up -- it will be nice to see them.

After lunch I made an apple bread -- it is really delicious.  Now I'm watching Senior Skins with Jack N, Arnie P, Lee Trevino, & Tom Watson.

Did I mention Bert broke a couple of ribs & it is painful for her, but she hopes to get back in a couple of weeks.  I will really be glad because Barb will have to get up & get going.  Lately she watches tennis from Australia starting at 10:30 pm & then sleeps in.  I used to try to be quiet but no more.  I like to clean in the A.M. U& I've started to work around it.

Carolyn has a birthday in Feb. & I plan to send her a card as I didn't have her address at Christmas time.  Finally heard from them.  It's also Joyce OConnor's birthday & I have a card for her.

A small town in N.Y. whose name I can't remember has 72" of now & are having trouble to find places to put the plowed snow.  Maybe you saw the report on the Weather Channel. We have 12" & that's more than plenty as far as I'm concerned.

Just got supper into the oven.  Could have put it in the crockpot but I put it off.  So I used the oven bags & then I didn't have the onion soup mix needed.  I told myself to check what is needed for menus but guess I didn't listen.  Looked at another recipe & used canned diced tomatoes with garlic & olive oil.  Dale likes tomatoes so I hope it tastes good.  Also added a bay leaf as that makes for good flavoring.  I've had this roast beef meat in t he freezer & decided I should use it.  Left6overs for tomorrow.  Dale isn't that interested in the Super Bowl -- some NASCAR program is what he'll watch.  Barb & I aren't that interested.  There is golf to watch.  Phil Mickelson finally won a tournament last week.

We have a new sub shop, Quisno I think it is, a franschise - was right the first time but it didn't look right so out with the dictionary -- & Kim & Lar tired them & said they are excellent.  We talk about getting some & Barb said we should do it this week.  I'm all for it & it's up to Barb to get them.  We'll see what happens.  An added push - -coupons worth 2.00 came in the mail.

My puzzle is calling & I have a good start on this letter.

Just remembered -- Dale's Dr. Strassburg is from Madison.  Lar has played either basketball or soccer at the Y with him.  Lar mentioned his brother was Lib. Director in Middleton.  He's a nice "guy" they both say.

Barb might go to Jamestown tomorrow.  There are a few groceries she wants & can only get at Wegman's.

Yesterday's paper said they hope to start the new bridge in May to be finished by Nov.  That will be great.

Later.  Supper was delicious.  Meat tasty & tender.  Enough for leftovers on Sun.

We got the Spring Summer Penney's catalog but I dont' see much that interests me.

Sunday Feb 1.

I think Ted & Pat were impressed with our pastor.  I know Ted thanked her for her message. After church we went to Ponderosa to eat -- we all had the Buffet Bar.  They enjoy visiting around.  This coming Fri. we are suppose to go to Peek'n'Peak for lunch.  We always enjoy going there.  We just hope the weather will cooperate.

A Deacon's Bench was given to the church in memory of Mildred Traub by the Traub, Himes & Darling families.  It is in the hallway you enter from parking lot between the sanctuary & the wing.  It is nice to have to sit on while you put boots on.  Ted used it today.  A nice addition.  We have new blue paraments for next Advent & green paraments are on order. The handicap lift is completed & being used.  So things are happening.

Barb finished her afghan & started one for Marisa's graduation gift.  They are nice.

Feb 3rd

No school today.  At 6 A.M. the radio said sleet so school would have a 2 hr. delay.  When the snow started they changed it.  I bet they'll have to dd onto the school year.  This extended weather is getting me down.  We had 5" & it is heavy snow.  It always comes when Dale has to work til 8 pm.  Barb shoveled here & at Bert's.

I'm lazy these days & don't accomplish much.  Dusted downstairs today & that's about all plus meals.  My puzzle is going slowly.  Only tans & browns to fit in & that is harder.

Fri A.M. the 6th

No school today -- sleet & icy roads.  I'll finish this but I'm not sure it will get mailed today. Too much snow around the mail boxes & we won't be going  out, except for my hair appt. We'll never forget the winter of '04.

More to write but I'll save it for the next letter. Nothing of importance -- just daily happenings.

Tuesday, November 4, 2003

Andy kicks a point after

We've had 2 days with the temp. in eh 70's.  The end of the week won't be as nice.

Today we voted.  And we were disappointed because we didn't do a write in vote successfully.  A good man was running for school director as a write in & we wanted him to get our votes.

I sent a card to Gerald with a memorial check so he should have it by now.

You won't believe this, BUT our Christmas box to you will soon be ready to send.  We'll  mail it in time for JoAnna's birthday.  I got small gifts to open & the main gifts will be a check. For you & JoAnna & Andy & Ed.  You might want to buy something the boys want but also I thought they might like a little cash to spend themselves.

Wed. Nov. 5

The library is having a book & magazine sale so I started looking thru my Taste of Home & Quick Cooking 2000-2001 magazines.  I think they should sell -- people always like recipes, but I'll check first.  I found a few interesting recipes I've missed.

Barb & Dale said I've been making the wrong choc. chip cookies.  Barb said I'm not u sing the recipe when I made your favorite cookie.  I've looked & looked but can't find that recipe. Barb wonders if you have it.  I'm sure it's a recipe I found somewhere.  It had peanuts in it.  I have more problems with favorite recipes -- they seem to disappear.  Most likely I misplace them.  I'm trying a recipe tonite using frozen hash browns with chicken.  I was disappointed in it.

I'm watching a good episode of Perry Mason. (It is a good one.)  So I probably won't get much written.  You can see I wasn't concentrating.

Thurs. the 6th

Benson's called this A.M. & asked if I'd like to go out to lunch.  I said yes.  We went to Perkins & enjoyed a nice visit.  They have large acreage & Ted has been planting many trees.  The latest is pine trees to act as a protection against snow, etc.  Ted even saw a bear.  They see many different animals & Ted can hunt on his property right in his yard.

I guess the teachers are a little disappointed because of those elected to the School Board. 2 from Tiditioute Tidioute. I need to write Tidioute 25 times to remember how to spell it.  Had to check in the telephone directory.  They are sure they will want to rescind all that has happened -- closing Tidioute high school & another school whose name I can't remember. Kim said one man elected has virtually no education & there is a lot of reading material to go through.

Not much to write about & the little I've written contains cross outs & poor sentence structure but at least you'll hear a little news from us.  I see the Dr tomorrow so the next letter will tell about it.  No school Mon next (teachers conferences) so Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown.

Saturday, October 25, 2003

I was sorry to hear of June's death.  But I guess it was to be expected - -she lived a long life. 90 years.  She & Ruth were born in 1913.

Thurs. nite I didn't sleep well at all.  I was really tired last nite & went to bed by 8:20.  And I made up for Thurs. nite.  Got up about 6:45 a.m. today.  It's a cloudy day.  Made banana bread, read the paper, made a grocery list but mostly just taking it easy.

Tonite I will see 9 innings of baseball unless the Yankees are way ahead, then I'll switch to another channel.

Yesterday my pastor friends met for lunch in Franklin.  Ted & Sue came from Ohio & Ted & Pat would have picked me up but I didn't go.  Just didn't feel like hearing the 2 Teds & their know it all taking over the conversation.  I might have fallen asleep.  I wasn't feeling up to it.

Nov. 7th I have a Dr. appt. & that is the wrong aft. for Barb to take me.  So I called Joyce O'Connor & asked for a favor (she had told me to call if she could help in any way) & she will take me.  I wanted to take her out to dinner but she said no to that.  She said people do favors for me & I do favors for others.

Barb's (O'Connor) daughter is expecting around Dec. 26th.  So the family is going to Philly for a shower for her.  Bev's son's wife had a baby in Oct. so Joyce is already a great grandmother.  Melissa is going to be an optometrist & will have 6 mo. left.  Her husband is taking his residence years in a Philly hosp.  Still has a couple of years left.  High school sweethearts.

Sun. Oct 26

I was so happy last nite to see the Marlins win.  Pastor Beth is from Fla. & very happy they won.  Denny Crandrell is a Yankee fan & very unhappy.  He is married to Elaine Jacobson & they are active members.  The Marlin pitcher did so well & only 23.  Now we'll be hearing about changes in the team's players.  Who will go where.  Will Torre be back in N.Y. Baseball is my favorite sport, but I like to watch all of them.

Tues. the 28th

Millie called Sun nite & she was telling me more about the retirement home.  She has already started to get rid of things.  In Dec. Linda will check to see how close Millie is to get in. She said Spfld. is really getting bad.  People don't go downtown any more.  They are afraid to.  She won't miss Spfld.  Once they tell her she has a place, she'll have 30 days to get ready to move.  That makes it hard as she  might not be able to sell the house that fast. And she doesn't want to put it up for sale now for fear it would see fast & she'd be left without a home.  The agent said to leave any furniture she doesn't want as furniture adds to selling a house.  I hope it all works out.

Barb started her Christmas shopping & has a good start.  I have some thoughts about what I want to do.

With standard time back, it sure gets darker earlier & makes for a long evening.

Let me tell you about this nite in Auburn, Wn.  My mother was with us & Dad was meeting with a couple with problems.  Around 11 pm, Mom & I went to bed & as I got into bed my water broke.  Dad got home & around 3 AM Dad called the Dr. & off we went to the hosp. Can't remember the exact time but you were born between 5-6 AM.  It was a busy time as several babies were born thru Halloween.  I was in the hosp. 5 days, I think. When I got home I had to make formula & a member L. G. Strand came -- he had to see the new baby.    And you were good & didn't even cry for a feeding until after he left. And that's the start of our family.

Wed Oct 29

This A.M. I made a white cake for dessert tomorrow.  Then I washed the floor & I'm always glad that's done for 2 weeks.

At lunch time Dale said no treats?  And I didn't have any so after my soap & now watching Perry Mason, I made some brownies.  The recipe uses Hersheys choc. syrup & I like that recipe.  It also has a recipe for the frosting -- using choc. chips & miniature marshmallows. We're having an easy supper.  Spag. & meatballs & the meatballs were frozen & I used ready made sauce.  Oh I also made an easy recipe.  Snack Mix Squares for Sheila & Sue. They close the shop on Halloween -- their favorite holiday -- dress up & visit some schools, nursing homes & they come here to show me their costumes.  So I always have a treat for them.  It contains the small stick pretzels, corn chex & M&M's.  Make a mixture of oleo,k peanut butter & miniature marsh. melted together.  Pour it over the pretzels, etc., press it in a buttered foil-lined pan & let set.  It's good.  This year they are dressing in old fashioned bathing suits.  I'll tell more next letter.  They always do a great job dressing up.

I'll finish this & then walk to 5th to mail it.

We're having a warm spell & enjoy it.

Nothing special going on with Lar & Kim, or the rest of us.  I turned one of the calendars to Nov.  Soon it will be Thanksgiving.  But it is fun thinking about Christmas preparations & receiving Christmas cards from friends in the past.

Saturday, August 9, 2003

It is a warm & muggy day.  I'm watching the Yankees vs. Mariners, & I'm rooting for the Mariners.who lead 2-1.  Mariners win!

I was up at 6 A.M. & started baking.  Coffee cake, banana bread in the freezer & choc. chip cookies.  Was finished at 8 A.M. & then ate breakfast.  Dale worked this A.M.

At 10 we went to the Mall.  Sales are good now.  I got a pr. of slacks & a top, & Barb got 2 tops.  When I got home I made a tuna-macaroni salad for supper.  Barb & Dale will have a hamburger & we have corn on the cob & fruit.  So it's an easy meal on a hot day.
I didn't enjoy my meal yesterday but that is the first time since we've gone to lunch at Holiday Inn. Quite a number there for lunch.  I ordered the quiche & so did Pat but it was all gone.  So we both got the special -- fish & chips.  Too highly seasoned & neither of us were happy with it.  But the dessert was good.  Lemon cake with raspberry sauce.  Very attractive & tasty.  Ohio friends couldn't come because their daughter delivered at 7 month & both mother & child were in danger.

I like to watch those birthing stories on TV & after watching long, hard deliveries, I marvel at how easy it was for me.  As soon as the pains started I was ready.  Barb came in 2 hours. Lucky me.  I've been pretty lucky all my life.  Good husband & a super family.

Larry & Kim are taking Tues. & Wed. off next week & will go to Erie & the peninsula.  And the weather sounds good.  Suppose to be drier and warmer.

Kim was watching Martha Stewart & they were talking about stationery & letter writing.  She said letter writing was a lot art & Kim tho't to herself -- not my brother-in-law or my mother-in-law.  I like writing to you all because I'll get an answer.  Too many don't answer letters anymore.  Then it's no fun to write.

Dr. McNett is retiring & that makes me very unhappy.  Due to health reasons & he's only in his middle 50s.  His wife isn't well either.  He's been my Dr. for over 20 years.

There are 3 baby birds in the geranium plant.

Mon. Aug 11

Thanks for the pictures -- they are very nice & bring back many happy memories.

Your front door sounds nice & also the windows.  You'll enjoy washing them.

Ron Polley stopped by today.  We chose the materials -- a brown mixture which will improve the looks of the house.  Bert had 3 estimates for her new roof, chose the cheapest one & isn't happy with the results.  We have proof he does good work -- neighbors garage.  They might start tomorrow or the next day.  Take the old shingles off & put roof paper on & get it all ready for the new shingles.  I didn't think he'd start so soon.  I paid him $1.000.00 today -- said I wouldn't have to pay 1/3 down.  It will cost close to $7500.00.  My vacations.  I'm lucky to be able to do this.

Wed. the 13th

It's very humid & tough to be working on a roof.  They started yesterday with garage & it's all set for shingles.  Now they're working on the house getting all the shingles off.  3 sets of them.  Ron asked to check the attic because the 1st set of shingles came to pieces & it seeped into the attic, so Barb and Dale will have a job vacuuming that up.

It's too hot to eat.  Told Dale I didn't know what to make for supper.  He said "pizza sounds good to me".

Bert is changing lawyers.  Barb took her to Jamestown this A.M. to see the new lawyer. She also changed banks.  From National City to PNC.  Many have changed from PNC to Northwest Savings -- I've thought of it but haven't.  Of course Nat. City tires to change Bert's mind.

I suppose Ruth must be in a nursing home now, where she receives care.  I'm assuming she can't completely care for herself.

The Beaty football team practices later in the day this year.  Usually they have had an A.M. & P.M.  practice.

Thurs A.M.  The humidity continues.  Could reach 90 today.  Barb wants to go to Jamestown but I don't think I will go.  Too hot & humid.

Sunday, August 3, 2003

We have a nest of birds in my geranium plant.  That has happened before, & the parents abandon the babies.  These are alive -- just barely.  I have watered the plants daily before I realized there was a nest.

Northwest Savings sent out letter concerning buying some of their stock.  Both Larry & Dale plan to buy shares.

Sheila & another operator are thinking of opening their own shop & have found a place. Sheila works long hours but doesn't see any increase in pay.  They haven't told Jerry yet. Sheila  & Sue each have a 1/4 share in the business & don't know if Jerry will buy them out. They both have a good clientele & that won't please Jerry a bit.  There is too much pressure there & they don't want that anymore.  Another gal is retiring the end of Aug.  She is 66 & her husband is retired.

The Mets finally played a winning game this aft.  Last nite they almost came from behind. Lost by 1 run.  A rookie won today's game.  6 ft. 6" & 245 lbs.  The wild car races should be very interesting.

Tues. the 5th

Today Barb had another test on the lump on her breast this A.M.  They took a larger sample because they can't believe it's not cancer.  We'll see!

Enjoy reading about the family reunion.  Yes, times sure have changed since we were first at the lake.  I was surprised about Darla.  Maybe she wanted to spend the time with her family.

I'm really surprised about Ruth.  She always seemed so on top of things.  You never know what life holds for you.  I'm wondering if having to sell the family home changed things for her. I'm lucky having Barb & Dale here.  It keeps me going.

Barb picked tomatoes & broccoli, green beans & there are blueberries in the bushes to pick. We have corn on hand so we'll have a veggie supper with chicken.

I got the estimates on a new roof.

Remove & replace shingles on house & garage.
Install new drip edge.
Install ice water shield.
Install 30# felt.
Install 30y shingle including stack vent boots.
Refash chimney (crumbling mortar)
$6300.00

Flat roof (off little room)
New rubber roof  1100.00
1/3 down to schedule
1/3 down to start
1/3 completion

Larry will see it on Thurs.  I like the work he did on the next door garage-- he kept at it til it was complete.

The tax bill came yesterday.  At least I have (I'm watching my soap & Barb is talking) the money for it.

It is hard to belive believe (it shocks me so I can't spell) that Andy is almost 16 & over 6' tall. With tall parents it is bound to be.  Eddie will be another one over 6' & another teenager in the family.

Interesting pictures of the library plans.  I can see the outcome clearer & the results will be wonderful.  You will have much more space for books, and the computers will be in a good place.  I love the elevator tower. This week the National Championship cancer races are in Warren.  The waters are higher due to all the rains so that will make it more difficult.  Next week they start preparing the bridge to be demolished.  I will enclose some pictures Bert took showing the results of heavy rain last week.  Take by Bert in her neighborhood.  The 15th Bert will go back to NYC for awhile.

The house next to Bert, across the St. from the Crary Art Museum, has been sold.  To a young couple -- the gal has a 2 year old.  He knows he has a lot of work ahead of him & his Dad will help him.  He doesn't have much of a job & Lois on the 7th Ave. side & Bert on the other side are concerned.  They are afraid it will be like the former owner -- making things a mess.  Not everybody is like that -- give the guy a chance, I say.

I'd like to know what I did to make Dale so fussy in keeping house.  The sink has to be spotless, etc.  Guess I should be happy & not complain.  Maybe it's me -- a guilty feeling I'm not doing all I should but then I'm almost 83  have a right to be lazy!  Ha! Ha!

Wed. the 7th

I was cleaning out the closet in my bedroom under the eaves & found the case Dad kept his robes in or are they albs.   The white ones.  I wondered what I would do with them & then I thought of Roger Thelin.  He is a lay preacher & I asked him last Sun if he could use them. He was thrilled to think he'd be wearing Dad's albs.  He picked them up yesterday & will wear one next Sun. when he preaches at Dagus Mines & Bethlehem, Ridgway.  Now I just have the stoles.

Thurs the 7th

Warren H. called last nite to let me know he won't be going to Erie on Fri. for a get together. It will just be Warren & Anna & Ted & Pat & me so we are going to the Holiday Inn in Warren.

The National Canoe & Kayak races are in Wrrn. this week.  Visitors are very complimentary concerning the beauty of the area & the river.  The one drawback is the lack of room space.  Many are camping at Chapman Dam & I'm sure Holiday Inn & Motel 8 are filled.  If they like the area, they return in 5 or 6 years & if they come again, they hope the plans for more room space will come about.  Different ones have commented the area should be pushed for tourism.

Tonite Kim said in 2 yrs. Lar & Kim, Betsy Moran & husband, Betsy 7 Michelle (Kim's friends) are planning a 2 wk. trip to Scotland & Ireland.  Kim said Dale should come.  Dale is buying $3,000 worth of Northwest stock.  He has too much money in his savings!

Sunday, February 23, 2003

The topic here is the weather & how long winter has been & all the snow.  More snow today & cold weather.  Better next Fri. & Sat. & then another cold wave!  But we're talking about going to Jamestown on Fri. so I hope it does warm up a bit.

I'm watching golf in sunny & warm Calif.

Back to last Fri. with Benson's.  One of our group, Sig & Carol Decker from Kane, haven't been with us for awhile due to Carol's illness.  She has dementia & it has gotten worse.  Pat saw them in the grocery store & Carol just had a blank look.  I sure hope they can find something to help Alzheimers.  I keep wondering how Gen will take it when she will have to go into a home for more care.  Pat felt bad for her.  Carol.

They announced this A.M. that starting Mar. 15, we will have a new organist.  She has subbed for us & knows the Luth. service.  It will be so nice to have the organ.  Just hope the next good news will be a new pastor.

Finished my puzzle & started another.  This one has a lot of colored flowers so it will be hard.  But I'm in no rush.  Too hard so I started another one.

Barb looked over some of her clothes & has 2 big bags to be given to the Salvation Army.  I should do the same.  They say if you don't wear something for a y ear or so get rid of it -- they are just taking up space in the closet.  The only thing for  me -- sometimes I wish I still had a blouse I gave away.  My closet is too crowded.  I can't resist a bargain!  Sometimes they don't  turn out to be bargains -- I get carried away by the price.

Betty Casey told me today the USA would be at war this week.   She listens to an evangelist who was using Bible passage to prove his point.  It said so sin the Bible!  You can prove many things by taking Bible verses out of context.  Also did you know JoAnna is a Biblical name.  In the 3rd chapter of Luke:  "Joanna, whose husband was an officer in Herod's court...." was a follower of Jesus.  The Jo and Anna aren't separated.

I really had a good laugh when I read your letter concerning the -- what do you call them, a nose razor? It was so funny & I could imagine the situation in my mind.  Dad had such an implement & I still have it & use it at times.  Mine is a Remington make.

Mon. Feb 24

More snow & enough to shovel.  Lar was at Carey's & Dale is shovelling our walks.  Erie was having snow as well & has 125" & if it keeps snowing in March, they could pass their high mark of 150".

Got a note from Gen.  They now have a P.O. box number & John picks up the mail.  I'm sure he can keep better track of bills, etc. this way.  You could tell this letter wasn't Gen of past years.

Wed Feb 26 -

It was 3 at 6 A.M.  We are living thru a history-making period, weatherwise.  The big cities have high snow levels & low temps.  Andy & Eddie can tell their children about the snows of '03!  And the lack of snow in Wis.

Just finished a note to Gen to tell her I got the change of address.

Also made out my needs for Mar.  Fri after I get my hair done, I'll go to the bank for my monthly withdrawal.

The church makes out financial sheets & I noticed I didn't pay my pledge in full.  After checking I realized I had increased it by 5.00 but when Jan '02 came around I hadn't remembered.  So for 14 months I owed money  So I'll ad some each month to make it up.  The Lord has been good to me so it's only right to reflect that in my giving.

Someone was looking at Carey's house this A.M.

Last Sun nite H&G had a House Hunters, USA, showing buyers in New York City, San Fran. & New Orleans.  I liked it.

Thurs 27th

Had a letter from Millie yesterday. Linda was home for a weekend & they took Gen out to lunch, then to Filene's where she bo't a pair of shoes.  Millie said "I hope she will wear them."  To get out of the house Millie takes the bus to the Holyoke Mall.  Nice that she can get there but I'm sure she has to transfer along the way.  No buses go by Gen's house so she is stranded.  Maybe it's just as well as she could forget which bus to get home.  I'm glad I can still walk to get my hair done; to the library & bank.  Just waiting for nicer weather.

Saturday, February 16, 2003

Wisconsin Library Association members meet with Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton

The snow was south of us so we just have the cold weather.

This A.M. I made an apple pie & started veg. beef soup.  Both tasted very good.  Figured soup would go with the cold weather.

Mentioned I was to see the Dr. yesterday & all is well.  See Dr. McNett in 4 months.  Barb didn't feel good Fri. A.M. so I walked to get my hair done.  9 degrees but I bundled up & the sun was out.  Walked home from the Dr's visit so I got some exercise.

When I got home I acted on an idea in my mind.  Called Joyce O'Connor & asked if she'd be interested in watching "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" with me.  She said yes, & then asked her to come for dinner. Fixed chicken, baked pot, broc., fruit salad & the leftover cherry dessert.  We had a great visit as we haven't seen each other for some time.  She exercises (walking) at the Y & a couple of the men walkers have made passes at her.  She said why are the married men the ones attracted to me.  When first widowed she wouldn't have minded dating.  She was in her late 40's when Dugey died & he was 51.  But now she isn't interested.  She is so funny talking about her experiences.  We both enjoyed the movie & had some good laughs.  I'll watch it again.  I had 2 Greek girlfriends in high school & they talked about their experiences & both spoke Greek.

Barb didn't come downstairs til noon today & spent the day in her p.j.'s.  As I was enjoying my dessert, after all was cleaned up, she came down dressed to go to BiLo.  She wanted grapes & I had a list of her.

Glad your Legislative Day turned out to be a success.  Guess Mother Nature is an Independent!

Bet it made you think of spring when you attended the Garden Expo.

No school on Mon.  Pres. Day.  But they will miss one of the days over Memorial Day due to a snow day Wed. last.  The first one in spite of our winter.

All for now.  Started a new puzzle so I'll work on that for awhile.

Oh I tho't of something.  Sam's ex wife's house burned down early last Thurs A.M.  At 2:30 A.M. she called Same & his latest gal answered the phone & wondered why she was calling Sam.  But Sam & his ex have a good relationship & when he was without a gal, he would be with her.

We enjoyed golf & watching Tiger play after a lay off.  He's on top as of Sat. nite.

Tues. the 18th

Thanks Andy & Eddie for my valentine.

We really have snow piled high but not as much as the Eastern big cities.  We got about 5-6 inches.  Lots to shovel.

Yesterday there was no school because of the holiday.  Today they had a 2 hour delay.

The main roads are clear so we were able to go to the Mall & get groceries.

Last Fri. when I walked by Beaty in the aft. I saw my first robin.  He's waiting for spring just like everyone else.

Gen called the other nite.  Next summer they'll have to get a new roof & paint the house.

We've gotten some good strawberries at the store.  From Calif.  I remember Andy loves strawberries.

I'm at the kitchen table, looking out the window at the snow piles on the fir trees.  One looks like a little lamb the way it settled on the branches.

When we looked at a window for over the kitchen sink, I would have like the kind you described you'd like.  It would have been more expensive but I've regretted I didn't push for it.

Too bad we aren't closer with Lar & Dale experienced in brick laying.  They did a nice job here but it was a big job.  (Pat & Ted commented on it again today, Thurs.)

This A.M. Bette Davis was on the Perry Mason show.  She was the lawyer while Perry was "sick" (probably on vacation) & it was good to see her again.  She was a great actress.

Thurs. evening the 20th.

This A.M. Ted Benson called & asked if they could take me out to lunch.  Of course I said yes.  They picked me up at 12:30 & we went to Perkins.  Pat said she had cabin fever & wanted to get out.  We had a nice visit & I didn't get home til 3pm.  Just in time for Perry Mason.  Pat & Ted were going to the Mall after they took me home.  I had pork loin tonite. Made the applesauce yesterday and a pecan pie this A.M.  Also made dinner rolls yesterday as well as a batch of cookies.  So things were under control so I could go out this aft.  We hadn't been together since last Nov.  So we had a lot to talk about.

When Kim was walking Torey he stepped in a puddle that had gasoline in it.  Kim didn't realize it until they smelled the gasoline.  They washed his paws but the smell still lingered so they were going to wash him again.

I didn't wear boots today as the sidewalks & roads were clear.  It was lovely to have it a little warmer & the sky was so blue.  BUT snow & colder is forecast for the weekend & colder temps.

Guess I've covered activities for this time.

Saturday, October 26, 2002

I'll start my letter early to tell you I fixed a complete dinner tonite!  Pork loin, oven fried potatoes, corn, applesauce, rolls AND lemon meringue pie.  I always have dessert on Thursdays.  Dale has ice cream before he goes to bed & I like coffee & cookies or candy after I get the kitchen cleaned up so that is our usual dessert.  The pie is my favorite & it is so good!

Last Friday was our luncheon.  About 12:30 Warren called to say they wouldn't be coming.  Anna was at the Ridgway hospital with her exercise program & her heart started acting up so she was on the way to the hospital in Du Bois.  They told Warren she would be there a couple of days.  The luncheon was just OK.  The two Teds kept up their church discussions.  It got long & we missed Warren & Anna.  Warren is "the life of the party".

We're watching Wi. vs. Mich. State & I'm sure there was groaning because of a couple of bad plays..  They just got a TD -- Wi. did.  In your home, that is.

Last nite I watched the Wi. debate -- Gov. & Doyle.  Barb & I were very impressed with Doyle.  It seemed to me that the Gov. was evasive in his answers & I'm not saying that because JoAnna is campaign manager.  We were both very impressed with J. Doyle's presence.  How are the polls rating the chances?  It won't be long now.  

What do you think of Art Howe being the new manager. That's what the papers say -- it can't be announced til after the World Series.  To me he seems like a mild mannered man -- just the opposite of Bobby.

I got my Christmas Club check today.  So I have money to spend & don't know what to buy.  Hint, hint!

We're changing our mind -- about going to Grove City at this time.  Now we want to go to Erie in 2 weeks on a Friday.  Kim went to Erie last Sunday & Lar went to Nancy & Jay's to watch soccer.  They are all avid fans of soccer.

Sun. the 27th

When I went to bed last nite, I was sure San Fran had won the Series.  It was nice to hear this A.M. that there is a game tonite -- there is still hope.

Last Friday  Ray Forstrum said he had visited Gary Risher & now he is in a wheelchair.  I can't remember the name of his problem but his feet swell & it is hard to walk.  I'm sure he misses the congregation because they are good people to help & now it places them in an odd situation.  We didn't reject him -- he rejected us.

I've had an easy day.  Each one makes his own lunch & since Dale doesn't necessarily want a big meal, we had Pizza Hut pizza & salad, the only thing I had to make.

Diane Himes Darling's youngest had a baby, a boy.  They live in Columbus, O. while her husband goes to school. Chris & his wife have a daughter & are expecting a son in Dec.  He is a pharmacist at Crone's.  Lois showed me a picture in church of the new baby.

I was just reading the Viewpoints section of the Buffalo Sunday paper. Buffalo Democratic mayor is backing the Republican Pataki for Governor.  Of course the Dems are made at him, but he feels Pataki has made a good start & should continue.  I bet he doesn't run for mayor again; if he does it would be hard to get the votes of the Dems.  The article surprised me.  Dale also likes to read this section.

Mon. the 27th

Warren County has a murder.  One Sheffield man shot another Sheffield man.  Drugs were found in the killer's home so maybe it was over drugs.  Both in mid 30s.

This afternoon I walked over town to cash a check for November expenses & then across the street to cash my Christmas Club check.  A nice day for a walk & later on in the week the weather doesn't sound that good.

Finally tried the Schwan brats tonite.  Their recipe said to put frozen shredded home fries on the bottom, then kraut & finally the brats on top.  Barb didn't like the idea of fries covered with kraut.  So I cooked them separately.  Added some olive oil, onion, salt & pepper to the fries -- covered them U& baked them in the oven.  Delicious!  Put the brats on top of the kraut & spinkled brown sugar over the kraut first.  Barb had gotten good rolls & I put my brat in a heated roll & covered it with kraut.  Ummm!  Easy, too.

I was very pleased with the outcome of the World Series.  Stayed up til the last out!  Didn't watch the celebrating.

On Thursday Sheila & Sue will come over to show me their Halloween get up.  They take the day off & visit around:  nursing homes, friends, etc.  So I'll make 3 kinds of cookies & share some with them.  They are very clever in planing their costumes.  Their masks are expensive ones & very real looking.

Tues Oct. 29th -- Thinking back 53 years when Paul was born.  It was a full nursery, many babies born, & your parents were very happy.  My mother was with us & then she went to Portland to visit her brother & wife.  George & Victoria Randolph.  At that time he was a chaplain at Emanuel Hospital.

They finally finished paving 3rd Ave. & just in time as the coming weather doesn't sound very good.  Cooler & chances of now.  Hope it doesn't hit us.

We aren't going grocery shopping til after 4 pm.  Reason at 5 pm Bon Ton starts a sale with prices off items we're interested in.  And this is Dale's late nite.

Thurs the 31

Sheila & Sue were just here in their costumes.  Dressed as motorcycle guy's "babes".  They have soft pig's face masks that are handmade in Buffalo, leather jackets & pants, boots & "tattoos".  Fake of course.  I had cookies for them.  They went to Burger King for lunch & people waited for them to take off their masks but they didn't.  Could eat thru the mask lip openings.  They love Halloween.  Had fun last Saturday night making the rounds.  Got $90.00 in prizes.  Got your letter today but will save comments for next letter.