Saturday, July 23, 2005

How was the bike ride.  Did you have sore butts?

Welcome to the club.  What club?  Why the club that makes parents anxious when their kids aren't home by curfew time!  I went thru that a few times!

When I got my Verizon telephone bill there was a charge of 40.00 for 2 min.  I called to find out & it had something to do with Dale's computer.  Someone got into it, or something.  Dale will pay the 40.00.  But I ended up getting Verizon online.  199.99 for 3 months, then $29.99. Computer comes on faster & one will be able to use the telephone etc. when Dale uses his computer, email, etc.  They will also block 900 numbers.  I don't know if I'm an easy mark but you can opt out of it after 3 months.  Barb is happy to have it.  What's one more bill. Ha!ha!  Dale says he has service thru a local co.  He has an email number but has never used it.  Thurs. nite Lar tried to show him how it works but he didn't succeed.

Bert left today for Atlanta.  She kept wondering why but she really can't be alone.  Barb is only suppose to be there 2-3 hours, 5 days a week.  Barb is kind of glad to have some time off.  She's riding her bike now, & Dale is lying in the sun.  I'm watching Seattle at Cleveland. The Mets aren't on this aft.  Will be on Sun. aft.  Barbs wants to go to Chapman's Dam.

You'll notice from the paper that the new bridge opens Aug 1st.  And work is suppose to start on the Walmart - Lowe's stores in N. Warren.  Some dispute about water run off might stall it.

I think the Chicago White Sox are the best team & could go all the way, even winning the World Series.  Not a good thing from a Nat. leaguer fan!

I've had to change my seat when watching TV, so I can see the print.  When I'm closer I can tell what is going on.  Probably should have my eyes examined again but I see OK otherwise.  It's a little over a year since I had an eye exam.

Millie sent pictures of her 90's birthday.  Allan & Larry have changed so much.  Heavier. Millie wrote Larry is after Debbie to watch her weight, but it's OK for him to have a tummy. Barb said it is nice to see pictures of cousins we never see.  There were pictures of the wives, Linda who looks very good, & Larry & Debbie's 3 children.  I've never met Allan's wife Liane.

USA Today had an interesting article about the rookie QB for Buffalo.  It was very interesting. He was at Jim Kelly's football camp for boys - spent a day there -- & the kids loved him. "Played" football with them & praised the young boy if he caught a pass.   That part was on a Buff. Bills TV program & you could see the adulation on the faces of the boys.  Hope he does as well as the Pittsburgh QB did last year in his rookie year.  It will be fun to see football again.  Shows how fast the time goes.

The Mets were on last nite & in the beginning have signed a 16 year old they expect to be a great player.  He can't start til he's 17.  And they have another future player, a 6'5" pitcher from Venezuela.  Barb said I'll have to take good care of myself so I can see them play. They have an excellent s.s & 3rd base players -- young ones.  So there is hope for the future.

Mon A.M. the 25th

Last Sat. we had another 900 call from Nova Scotia, & it scared me.  Didn't answer.  This A.M. Barb called Verizon about it.  I guess they don't block phone calls, only computer calls. Anyway they call it Modem Hijacking & said they won't pay the bill.  It might be too late to take it out.  If so, it will appear on the Aug. bill.  I have the bill deducted from by bank acct.  I'm glad Barb called as some of this goes over my head.  Now I'll give Dale back his $40.00.

We finally had some rain during the nite, but I slept thru it.  Barb said it filled the plastic water barrel 1/2 full.  We could use more rain.

This will be another A.C. day.  It's not already.  Lot my 3rd load of laundry in the washer. Barb is riding her bike.

Wed. A.M. the 26th

We had a big storm last nite & filled the rain barrel.  I haven't done much this A.M., except clean the bathroom.  We can't go to the Mall this A.M. as we are hemmed in by trucks. The gas co. has started work on replacing the lines, & putting the meter outside.  They had to drill thru the basement wall & it has been noisy.  Now they are out front.

We have "egg on our face" as they started with Cary's house Tues. & had to dig thru where the rhododendrons were planted.  That's why the neighbor has done nothing with it.

We've had 2 small tomatoes from the garden & we should have a good crop if they all ripen. Some big ones.  Barb has given beans to the neighbors (Conaway house) -- can't remember how to spell their names & too lazy to get up.  Also Lar & Kim have received some & we've eaten a lot of them.

I iguess the Mets like "home cooking" because they have a hard time winning on the road.

Dale likes sunflower plants & we planted them from seed.  Now they are 6' high.  There are 5 of them.

Yesterday I watched 3 movies from TCM -- in black & white & enjoyed them.  If you think that's all I did you could be right.  I did change my bed, washed a load & made meals.  And I washed the floor!  Spots came too fast to suit me.

Later.  Barb & Dale aren't too pleased with the new gas meter & will talk to Larry to see how they could cover it.  I think they are thru on our property but the final hook up won't be til next week.

Barb is now on the Internet.  She finally got it all together.

It seems to me, when you lived awhile with Gen & Ed, you stayed out late & Ed went looking after you.  Something your parents never did!

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

Glad to hear that the party was a success but I expected you to say something about the Gov.  Maybe he couldn't make it due to a last minute appointment.

This aft. I got a perm & did I ever need one.  I can't go 3 months because my hair grows too fast.  It feels so much better now.

Last Fri. nite & Sat. Barb housecleaned her bedroom.  She has started in the little room. Plans to clean the house this summer.  I didn't take all my stuff when we changed rooms.  I have your "baby book" & a couple of letters & that picture someone drew of you.  Barb likes it & thinks you should have it.

I'm watching the Yankees at Texas.  Texas has really improved & I hope they can beat the Yankees.  Texas 1-0 so far.  Just 1st inning.

Our hot weather continues but a cool wave is suppose to come Wed & Thurs.  I hope so as I need to make some dinner rolls.

Bert's niece & daughter are still here.  Tina wants to take Bert back to Atlanta with her.  Bert said she didn't want to go but Tina won't take no for an answer.  Bert said yes but now she doesn't want to go.

There was an interesting article in the Buff. paper about the libraries in the area.  Will send it to you so you can see what is going on.

We had some rain on Sat. so that helped.  It filled the water barrel we have to collect the rain.  But most lawns are brown.

Kim says her golf isn't that good so I won't see her name in the paper with results of Tuesday A.M. play.  Last year I saw it a couple of times.

Tues the 19th

Last Fri on our way to CVS I said to Barb "That looks like Jack Carey."  We parked the car & talked to him.  They were here to go to the dentist.  They were staying with  friend.  Mary Ann was in CVS & we found her & talked.  They had lunch with Bonace's so they saw their old house.  Were disappointed the rhododendrons were gone & not replaced.  Bonaces also said they aren't friendly neighbors.  They are in Buffalo for the summer, Fla, in the winter. She showed us pictures of Lisa's 2 girls, Susan's girl & Paula's 2 sons.  The one they adopted from Russia is 3 & a blondie & the baby boy is 17 months.  Mary Ann misses Warren but is happy to be close to 3 of the grandchildren.  Susan lives in Buff. now.  It was good to talk to them again.  They were good neighbors.

Now Bert is going to Atlanta -- they leave Sat.

Late -- Less humid weather has arrived.  This is Dale's late Tues. so I set the dinner rolls & put them in the fridge overnite.  The first thing in the A.M., after breakfast, I can form them. That way I can get thru using the oven earlier.

Thurs.  Had a letter from Millie & pictures of her 90th birthday & pictures of the family.  Allan & Larry have changed so much.  Pictures of Larry's children.

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

I thought about you all last week being so busy preparing for your party.  Almost called last Sun. but then decided to wait for the letter.  Didn't know if you'd be napping or taking it easy after a busy week.

Last Sun. Jr. Himes looked so nice in his yellow pants & yellow paid shirt, I had to compliment him after church.  Then he gave me a hug.  I teased him & said the women would be after him.

Betty Casey told me Sandy is working at the Watson Home.  She said when the ladies want something, they want it in a hurry.  Don't have the patience to wait.  Barb finds that with Bert.

Thurs. Dale has to go to Pittsburgh for schooling.  Just one day.  Fri. nite he's going to car racing in Erie with Randy Swanson.  Randy's wife got some free passes & asked if Dale wanted to go.

I made blueberry bread last Sat. for Dale's snack.  He said "it is excellent".  Kim made strawberry bread & gave a loaf to Bert.  Bert loved it & as I still had a box of strawberries left, Barb suggested I make some.  So I did & it is good.  It makes 2 leaves so I froze one.

I told you Dick Hause had a heart attack.  He was back in church last Sun. He was helicoptered to Erie.  He had a shunt put in & feels good.  The dr's in Erie said the Warren Dr. treated him in the right way so I guess our MDs know what to do.

Last Fri. we went to Erie.  Ate lunch at Ruby Tuesday.  Jamestown had rain but it never reached Warren.

Kids are funny -- even grown ones.  When Barb irons, she slams the iron down & it bothers Dale.  He called her on it.  Barb comes to me & tells me of the incident.  She said, "I don't complain when Dale takes so long to vacuum rugs. That's a lot of noise."  I just let them rant & keep my mouth shut.  But they both agree about the neighbor (Carey's former home).  He took down the rhododendrons by the side of the house facing up, leaving the tree that has no lower branches.  He did that last fall & still hasn't done anything more.  Hasn't taken the winter mulch off their roses.  Both can't understand that, but not everyone is as fussy as Barb & Dale.

Barb is fighting the rabbits who want to eat her garden's produce.  They get in under the wire fence the school put up.  She'd placed stones there but they still got in so she's trying something different.

The new Bon Appetit has an interesting banana & blueberry muffin recipe, that I'd like to try.  Copied the recipe to be sure I have it.

I'll watch some of the All Star baseball game.  It starts later so I can't stay up to see the end of it.  Maybe the N.L. can win for a change.

Today when I put clean sheets on my bed, I didn't put the blanket back on.  With our summer heat I just need a sheet so why make the extra work with a blanket.  Anything to make things easier.  Or am I lazy?

It's 8:36 & they still haven't started the ball game.  I don't listen to the announcers -- they talk too much. More fun just to watch the action.

Barb had to go to BiLo's for Bert & she always calls to see if I need anything.  She tried & tried & Lynn also tried to call & no results.  When I mentioned it to Dale, he went upstairs & checked his computer. He was the culprit.  He didn't turn something off.  Telephone restored.

Wed. 8:25 A.M.

I'm sitting on the front porch enjoying a cup of coffee.  When I got up this A.M. it was already 70 so we're in for another hot one.  The grass is turning brown.  No rain.

Barb is still in bed but I got the pots & roses watered.  Today I clean the bathroom & wash a load of towels.  And wash the kitchen floor.  When I hear that Barb is up, I'll start my work.

The N.L. didn't have it last nite.  Told Barb they wouldn't win.  Maybe the best N.L. players weren't there, but the fans pick the ones they want to see.

We'll be watching the men's golf on the British Isles -- Scotland I think.  Jack Nicklaus farewell.  With Michelle Wie playing some golf it is fun to watch the women's tour.  She is something else.  And so beautiful & shapely.  Like a model.  And such poise for one so young.  She'll be a winner.

One of Dale's magazines, Chevy Motor I think, offered tickets to buy in a raffle.  Prize a Corvette.  I think the tickets were about 20.00 or 25.00.  He decided to give it a try & hopes for the best.  Do you think he might be driving a Corvette?  Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Did you notice the Boston baseball team sold tickets at $10.00 each & the prize was the World Series ring.  Three were offered.  Worth $15,000.00.  They made close to two million for their charities.  Imagine it wasn't hard to sell those tickets.

Thurs A.M. the 14th

Dale left at 5:30 this AM so I was up early to make him a lunch.  Nothing close by.  I'm resting now & watching golf from St. Andrews course in Scotland.  Why am I resting?  After Dale left, I made potato salad for tonite and blond brownies.  Then I showered, made my bed, got dressed & watered the flowers.  So that's why I'm taking it easy & might even sneak in a little nap.  One thing I'm good at.  Also got the garbage out.

On our way to the Mall.  Fri aft.

Monday, May 23, 2005

Our pastor is on vacation so the chaplain from the Luth. Home in Kane was with us.  He reminds me of Dad, not in looks, but he is gentle & kind & a good preacher.  He introduced his sermon "How many 4 letters words have you spoken this past week?"  Then he was on to say there are many 4 letter words in the Bible & went on to preach on live & love.  He also used with as we work together in living & loving.  We've always had an experience pastor & you can tell the difference.  She wants to conquer the world but she'll find out with experiences it isn't that easy.  I think many of her introductions to the sermon are too long & personal.  Just my ideas!  Nobody is perfect.

We're expecting a rainy week, not all day but showers.

I was disappointed the Mets didn't win the 3rd game against the Yankees.  Again inexperience led to an error & runs.  The S.S. is only 21 & he is very good but still learning. They say this team blends together much better than earlier teams.   Yesterday Jerry Seinfeld threw out the 1st ball & later he was with the announcers.  He became a Met fan in '69.  He feels the Yankees are the "elite" & the Mets are for "ordinary" fans.  He has a daughter 4 years, a son 2 y ears & one on the way.  We listen to him (his program) at 6 pm on TBS.

I'm wondering if Andy will be working 2 jobs.  Good for him to be recommended.  He'll make a good salesman, esp. when the girls come in!!

Wed. the 24th

Yesterday I had my teeth cleaned & then checked by Dr. Walters.  No problems but he said don't eat the unpopped kernals of corn.  He had had 3 people who had problems -- lost a filling or part of a tooth.  I said I like sweets more than popcorn.  He knows I'm 84 & said that can't be so bad when at 84 you have the teeth you have.  His Dad was born in 1920.

I'm watching aft. baseball.  Colorado at Milwaukee.

This A.M. I watched the History Channel -- the story of Pres. Roosevelt, esp. during World War II.  I learned about the happenings of that day -- ones I lived thru but didn't know much about.  I do remember seeing Pres. Roosevelt on a motor tour thru Spfld.  He was quite a man & his wife Eleanor was a woman before her time.  She would have loved to be living today with teh freedoms women have.

Thurs. nite

I was hoping to watch the Mets in Fla. but it is raining.  They're on a losing streak so I guess I won't miss much.

Bert gave Barb a dress to Barb but Barb didn't carer for it so she showed it to Kim & Kim loved it.  The Hospital Auxiliary has a summer event to raise money & Kim  & Lar will go to it.  They've been having it outside for a few years.  Tents, etc.  It will be at Bets Park this year. Kim wanted a new dress but didn't want to spend a lot of money, so she was really happy to get this.  Skirt, sleeveless top & a jacket.  Just what she wanted.  A jacket for when it cools off.

Gen called today.  She calls John's friends -- the boys.  The boys see that she takes her medication.  She wonders why she can't take it herself.  She can't remember.

Tonite I tried something different -- shrimp Creole.  I'm not that fond of shrimp but they like it. Tossed salad, garlic bread & chocolate cake for dessert.

The game is back on.  Off for 80 minutes & only in the 2nd inning.  The Mets just scored 3 runs.  Imagine that!!!

It finally warmed up today so I didn't need a sweater in the house.  We expect a cloudy & showery weekend.

I gave Lar & Kim money for their anniversary.  They can buy something they'd like or put it toward something.

All for this time.

Saturday, February 19, 2005

This is the weekend NASCAR returns to racing & we have been watching Speed Channel & races.  The big race is tomorrow from Fla.  If you are a real fan & have the money that is the place to be this weekend.  Daytona Beach.

Think I've mentioned this before what I learned from the Food Channel.  Marinate chicken with balsamic vinegar, onions & garlic, only I omit the garlic.  It is absolutely Dale's favorite way to do chicken.  They pan fried the chicken, but I baked it.  We had that tonite with Uncle Ben's rice, another of Dale's favorite.  And broccoli & fruit salad.  An easy & fast meal to prepare.  Make peanut butter bars for dessert.  Another easy recipe.  Similar to choc. chop cookies.

Barb has to go to the liquor store almost every week for Bert.  Barb hopes they don't think she uses all of it.  Barb thinks Bert should cut down on alcohol.  She is 87, in poor health, her friends have died or are in nursing homes so I say let her have her comforting drink.  She doesn't get out that much anymore.

Sun. Feb 21

We're watching the racing -- it is exciting to watch.  I forgot to mention when I had my hair done, I said to Sheila racing starts Sun.  Sue's customer said "Marion do you like racing?" Sheila answered for me.  "She is a big face fan."  I said I have to be as that is the main sport for Dale so I have to understand it.  I do enjoy it but it takes a back seat if baseball happens to be on at the same time.

I don't know if you remember the Nicholson's.  They lived on East St. next to the funeral home.  There were 2 sisters & 3 brothers.  One was a lawyer who was a good one but ides young.  None ever married.  They all have died & the last one died rectally.  They were ever active in the church but open to it.  They left over a 2 million estate.  The church will get the interest of 20% of the estate but it will probably take up to 2 y ears to settle (the estate). Pretty nice.  I know Dad used to call on the sisters who died first.

Barb & I finally finished the puzzle.  I'll put the card table away for awhile.

We won't go to Jamestown tomorrow -- the weather won't be that nice, sleet & rain.  I'd rather wait for nicer weather.

We like our new organist.  He plays very well & is getting acquainted with the liturgy.  He makes the organ sound very good.  He will lead the choir.

Tues pm the 22nd

This A>M. I went to Bible Study at church followed by pot luck lunch.  I made my tools to bring.  One thing that is never left over.  The pastor took 3 rolls home the last time I bro't them.  Her husband ate all three of them. He said "who made those rolls, I want to marry her."  Today I gave her the left over rolls so her husband should be happy.

Barb took the laptop computer to Lynn's so Lynn could help her get started -- how to use it.

You know what I remember about Janesville.  We spent our first nite as man & wife in a hotel there.  Our wedding was at 8 pm; after the reception we drove with Min & Lila & family to Beloit & then we took their car & drove to Janesville.  It was a terrible night.  Jan 26 & it was foggy & you couldn't see anything & it took a long time to get there.  We spent Sat. night with Min & Lila.  Dr. Benander asked Dad to preach at Salem that Sun & he did.  The first of the week we left for Auburn via train.   We got to Auburn in the morning & went from the train to the Strands for breakfast.  They are the ones that let you, Paul, open the cupboard doors & play with the pots & pans.

We've been watching reruns of Seinfeld & they are so crazy.  The other nite I was surfing the TV & came upon "Beverly Hills Cop 2". It was so crazy & I laughed so hard. Dale came downstairs to see what I was watching.  And today Perry Mason was in color.  Barb tho't that was the only one in color -- the first series.

That was really nice to be invited to consider applying for the job in Janesville.  But I can understand you not wanting to move because of the boys & the feeling you still have something to give at Middleton.  I guess that is why we continued to stay in Warren. It sure looks like a nice modern building.

I hope you're over the flu by now.  I had an extra Valentine so I sent it to my friend Shirley in Auburn.  She's the one whose husband died last Nov.  Heard from her today. The card arrived when she was getting over a bad case of the flu that left her very weak.

I don't know if you remem -- I've already covered that subject.  Nicholsons.

Our organist is 32 years old & last fall he had a triple bypass operation.  He was at church this A.M. When we were eating lunch the phone rang & it was his wife.  When he returned home he collapsed & was driving himself to Warren hosp.  He lives in Jamestown but didn't want to go to the Jamestown hosp.  We hope all things will be OK for him as organists are hard to come by.  His wife is only 22 yrs. old.  They have 3 children, the oldest is 6.  She was young when she had the 1st one.  T hey are a nice couple.

Wed. the 23.  I made the apple dessert from Bon Appetit (however you spell it) and it is good.  I had to sample it.  It has a think graham cracker base & that adds to the taste.

Gen called this noontime.  She tho't she was calling Millie.  We visited a bit.  Called Betty Casey -- she had a slight stroke & is doing better.  Hope to get to church soon.

Love to all.  Marion, better make it Mom.

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

It is spring like today, but only for a day.  It is suppose to get colder with flurries.  Makes one think of spring.

This A.M. I had to have a blood test & I couldn't eat breakfast.  I don't go to the hosp. anymore.  It's done at the Dr. offices & I like that better.  Saw the Dr. last Fri. & all is well. My blood pressure was good.

Ed Africa is still in Warren.  Mrs. Gustafson, up the st., told me she had talked to him.  He doesn't know when he'll leave Warren.  He has to go to Nev. to renew the lease on his apt. He thinks he might stay here for another year.  Guess he has Warren in his blood.

Sheila's grandmother died so Sue did my hair last week. She was suppose to go to Pittsburgh last weekend with her husband to see his grandfather who is ailing.  She couldn't go as the funeral was that Sat.  Her grandmother was 93.  Her paternal grandmother.

I have a turkey breast for tomorrow when Lar & Kim come.  Celebrate a late Valentine's.  We had steaks last nite -- Barb and I at at 6 pm.  Dale didn't come home til 7 pm.  He was working on his car.  He tilled his own steak.

At noon today, he said some fellows might be laid off.  Not enough work to go around.

Remember Chris Johnson in your class -- her mother Ethel is in the Rouse Home & will be 90 on Sat.  The 2 girls will have a party for her.  I sent a card as I won't get there to wish her a Happy Birthday.

Wed. nite Feb 16

I'm relaxing a bit after all is cleaned up.  Our meal was delicious, if I say so myself.  I like a turkey roast -- it's easier to fix.  Tomorrow nite Dale & I will have leftovers & there will be turkey for sandwiches.  Kim had a cold & didn't feel that good.  Barb didn't feel good this A.M. but by aft. Barb felt better.  Scott had a book report for tomorrow and Barb had to help him with that.

We woke up to snow.  Dale said driving to work was bad as it began to freeze.  The roads hadn't been plowed or salted.  Kim said the same driving to Sheffield.  Dale was surprised they didn't delay school but the storm came on so fast they didn't realize the roads were that bad.

Bert has a lap computer & she told Barb she could take it home to use.  Barb plans to as she would like to learn more about it.

Barb wonders if you took her camera to be fixed.

No school next Mon. so we might go to Jamestown.  We'll leave bout 11 A.M. as Barb wants to go to Bert's first.  That will give me a chance to do some of my Mon. chores.  We'll eat lunch there.  My choice of eating place this time.

Thurs. the 17th

I'm sitting here, the TV is on to the Weather Channel & I'm trying to think of things to write about.  I you watch the weather channel you know what our weather is about.  Cold & snow flurries.

Buffalo is having problems -- not enough money & the people don't want a raise in sales taxes.  So a lot of people are being laid off, parks are closed & they think the libraries will be cut.  Some people think they need to cut people in gov't.  They checked & found that Buff. has a higher percentage of gov't workers than Chicago & Chicago has a much larger population.  Guess all cities are in the same situation.

Marisa didn't do well at all in high school but now she goes to Jamestown College & is doing very well.  She said it is so different than hi school  She likes school now.

It's early to bed tonite as I had trouble getting to sleep last nite.

All is well with us. With love to all.

Sunday, December 26, 2004

This A.M. we had the S.S. Christmas program as part of the service.  It is always nice to see the children.  Fran Leto (she played at Dad's funeral) played this A.M. & it was good to see her.  Our regular organist is having a hard time getting over the death of her daughter.  Fran feels like one of us. Our loss is St. Joe's gain

I'm taking it easy today after a busy 2 days.  2 dinners & 1 breakfast to plan & prepare. Barb gave me a puzzle & I'll soon put up the card table & start it.  It's pretty with a quilt & flowers scene.

Your family picture is so wonderful.  All of you look so good in the picture. Thanks so much. I received a lot of nice gifts.  Dale got me a Hunter Fan for the D.R.  The present one is noisy.  Lar & Kim gave me a set of baskets to hold the "junk" in my bedroom.  This next week I will have to get things organized so it's not so messy.

We asked Bert to come over Christmas Day dinner but she didn't feel up to it, but she appreciated the invitation.  Barb was over there today & they got to talking about the will & she said to Barb "You are in my will."

Kim & Lar have a busy schedule.  Yesterday they were her at 10 A.M. for breakfast & gifts. 2 pm they were at friends:  Nancy & family at Nancy's mom Barb Jacobs for lobster.  Barb J. ordered it from Maine & it is flown in.  Here at 5:30 for dinner.  When they left they were going to Betsy's (Moran) for gift exchange.  Before they came here Christmas Eve they were at Betsy's mom for drinks & shrimp.  They said they are busy all week with get togethers.

The Steelers won today but it wasn't on our TV.  We are watching the Bills at San Fran & they are ahead 7-0 right now.  Next week the Steelers are at Buff & Barb thinks Dale & I shold root for the Bills so they get into the playoffs.  I don't agree.  I'm not really a football fan (baseball is my game, Go Mets!) but seeing the Steelers are doing so well I have to, as a Pennsylvanian, root for them!  I should say as a western Pennsylvanian, I should root for them.

Barb was so pleased to hear Andy liked her gift to him.  She saw it in a catalog & sent for it & we thought it was so nice.  Hope Ed likes his gift from Barb.  I forgot to ask if you liked your watch.

Just a few thoughts on Mon A.M.  This is Dale's early week & I'm in no rush to start my chores.  We were discussing where to hang your picture.  Barb wants me to take the wall clock down (she hates the ticking) & hang it there.  But I like the clock, so I'll take down pictures on the wall by the stairs & hang it there.  I want to be able to see it when I go upstairs.

Tues. Dec. 28

At Christmas, Kim mentioned Betsy (your classmate) gave her some hand cream, from Body & Bath Works & she liked it very much.  Today Barb & I went to the Mall & headed to Body & Bath & found the cream.  For dry hands.  Tried it & like it a lot.

I hung your picture where I can see it every time I go upstairs.  Today the Schwan man came & I always buy chicken breasts.  Today I showed him my son's family picture -- the small one.  Then he showed me a picture of his wife, him & their 4 year old son.  A very nice family picture & you could see he was proud to show it to me.  The boys is 4 years old & looks like his daddy.

Dec 31.  New Year's Eve

I had a letter ready to go & I don't think it got mailed & I can't find it.

Last nite we were at Lar & Kim's & we had a nice time together.  They have a beautiful tree & many decorations including her Santas.

Today I took the picture & showed it to Sheila -- she hears a lot about you folks.  She is very upset as her mother is full of cancer; she is in the hosp. & wants to go home & help is hard to find.  There is no hope that she will improve.  Only 68.

I heard from my friend in Auburn.  Her husband died just before Thanksgiving.  I didn't send her a card as I didn't hear last year.  But I will write to her soon.  Just heard from a friend in Gt. Falls so I'll have another letter to write.

We're going overtown this aft. so I'll be sure to mail this.

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.

Saturday, October 2, 2004

We're getting a little rain & Dale put fertilizer on the lawn.  With all the rain, our lawn stayed pretty nice this summer.

Finished the puzzle, finally.  Started another one.  The card table is getting to be a permanent fixture in the living room.

This A.M. I made apple bread for Dale's A.M. snack & dinner rolls.

During Cot. I'm planning to ask Benson's for lunch.  I'm thinking of the 13th, a Wed.  I have to make the decision & then follow thru.  I'll have chicken, scalloped pot., a jello salad, & pumpkin pie.  I saw a recipe for a different pie using Knox gelatin -- a one crust pie.

I'm starting to make a list for when we go to Erie.  Now that you aren't going to football games, maybe you can think of Christmas ideas -- gift suggestions for Barb, Dale, Lar & Kim to give.  I still plan to give gifts of cash plus a small gift to open.  We'll be starting our shopping soon.

I think I mentioned a recipe from Taste of Home.  A cranberry-pecan pie.  Kim thinks it's a good one. A different combination but should be good.

At church we have a cookie walk & soup & pie luncheon in Dec.  The 4th & I always make 2 pies & a batch of cookies.  One of the members wants to have a smorgasbord.  He's a good cook & it would be fun to go to one again.  I might (if they have it) ask Joyce O'Connor to be my guest.  Maybe I can get the family to go.

Did I write Dale's computer had a virus.  The fellow came over & it took him 2 evenings to fix it, etc.  It cost Dale $100.00  Last nite he was looking at pictures he took 3 yrs. at the Lake. On the TV & he could enlarge the photo & the color was beautiful as well as the scenery.

Sheila & Sue had a billboard put up advertising about their shop -- on the way to Jamestown. Sheila said it's very colorful to catch the eye.  I'll have to look for it the next time we go to Jamestown.  She's been in the business 21 years & Sue 27 yrs.  Sue is Dale's age.

A grade school boy was selling calendars for his school.  Title God's Earth so I don't think it was a public school.  An appointment calendar & I'm sure it goes to a good cause.  They are very nice.  $6.00.  There are Bible verses for each Sun. They are from the King James Version.  I like my New English Bible in modern language.

Sun A.M.  Last nite Barb was having a snack in the kitchen, Dale was upstairs, & I was doing my puzzle.  Then we heard the most piercing noise & we didn't know where it was coming from & it went on & on.  Finally Dale remembered he put a water alarm under the kitchen sink & it goes off if water is leaking.  It wasn't much & Dale had it fixed in no time. But, oh my ears.

We've been watching football.  Buffalo lost & I see Green Bay lost.  Dale's team Pittsburgh won & the Mets ended the season with a win.  I'm not sure whom I'll root for but I like Anaheim for the A.L. U& Minn. 2nd.  I think St. Louis should win for the N.L.  We will see.

Thurs. Oct 7

Our neighbors Dan & Sally Neizmik first had a Kerry-Edwards sign by the rose garden.  A few days later there was a 2nd sign -- Bush-Cheney.  Barb wondered what was going on. Sally & their 2 adult children are for Kerry & Dan is for Bush.  A divided household!  The USA Today -- the 7th -- has a story about another divided family.

Bert's refrigerator gave up the ghost & she had to buy a new one.  Anything new bothers her -- everything in the house can't change.

I'm enjoying the playoffs.  The only announcers I like are Joe Morgan & Jon  - his name won't come.  I use the mute button when they have 3 announcers (ESPN) & they try to outdo each other.

Lar & Kim are fine -- they'll get a new lease car on Sat. the 9th.  Same make -- an 04.  05s are in but the lease would be higher.  This one will cost more than the last one.  This time they're getting it in Jamestown -- usually it's DuBois.  Torey is getting old.  Kim cant walk as fast with him anymore.  Today they could only go as far as Big Joe's on their walk.

I won't see the end of the baseball game tonite.  It's soon bedtime & I'm ready for it.

Sunday, September 19, 2004

I'm in a quandary -- what do I watch when the Mets are on TV as well as the Ryder Cup, where for 2 days the U.S. has taken a beating from the Europeans.  But today the U.S. fellows are doing better in singles play so I'm switching back & forth.  Maybe it's too late, tho for U.S.  It was.

Fri. Barb went to our Mall.  Barb always says I don't need anything but ends up buying a jacket to wear with jeans, etc.  A bright pink.  Nice for the cooler weather of fall.

Dale is on vacation this week.  Mon. at 9:30 he will help Barb put up clothes, a TV, & VCR & store them here.  Bert's friend from Hawaii things.

This A.M. in place of the sermon, the youth who went to Mexico to help build a house, told of their experiences.  Only the wealthy have garbage pick up, so there is garbage all around. The small house they helped build is more like a garage in the U.S.  But the people were thrilled to get it.  It was quite an experience for them.

Pittsburgh had so much rain & flooding, Fri. nite's game was postponed.  So they had a double header today & the Mets lost both games.  Another lost season again.  Will it ever change?

We could have frost tonite so I brought the fem in from the porch.

We received the L. L. Bean Christmas catalog but the one I'm waiting for is the Penneys catalog.  Lynn got hers last week, so maybe mine will come this week.  Barb looked thru Lynn's & said it was interesting.  I got the Holiday Cookbook from the Taste of Home books in Greendale, Wi.   It was so much fun to look thru & I noticed some interesting ideas & recipes for holidays, not just Christmas.

The political signs are going up.  Collins have the Bush-Cheney sign up & their neighbors, a lawyer, whose name slipped my mind, has a bunch of signs for state Democratic offices.  I'll be glad when the hype is all over.

The new bridge has really been hindered with bad summer weather & heavy rains from the hurricanes (it does have an E).  It should be near the finish but they are really behind. Wonder if the company will make any money on it.

In football Buffalo lost so Barb was unhappy; Pittsburgh lost so Dale was unhappy; Green Bay lost so you are unhappy; Mets lost so I'm unhappy.  If that's all we've got to be unhappy about, I guess we're pretty lucky.

Mon the 20th

Got your interesting letter today.  Interesting about our house.  It also had a half bathroom with the laundry area, by the kitchen.  Both Grandpa & Grandma Randolph lived with us until Grandpa died.  I don't remember much about Grandma.  When we moved in she fell down the cellar stairs & cut her head open & it took 48 stitches to close it.  It affected her mind & in the end she spent time in the hospital for the poor.  She wore long skirts & I remember the cake she made didn't taste as good as my mother's.  One morning in grade school, I guess I didn't want to go to school so I hid in the attic during the A.M.  Grandpa was still living them & he whipped me.  I went to school that afternoon!  Gen must have told one me.  When Gen was born they named her Madeline G. & because my dad said there were too many actresses' names, they went by Gen.  My dad was young when he first married to someone older than him & she died in childbirth with Millie.  She was Hulda from Hartford & had 2 sisters that never married.

I've kept a few things from you "kids" school days & that bakery trip was one.  Barb said I should sent to you -- otherwise it would be with "stuff" to go over when I'm no longer here. Are you going to keep it.

Barb & I went to CVS for my meds, to the Mall & then Quality.  At the Mall Barb got a pair of nice black pants to go with her new jacket.  I was looking thru a sale rack & found a $49.00 Liz Clarbourn blouse for $7.95.  I couldn't believe it, but it was true.  It is navy print with a small design of pineapple, glasses of juice, palm trees, etc.  Very small print but maybe people didn't like the design.  But for that price I'll wear it.

Back to the family, Ford was older when he married.  It was so interesting to read the facts.

I don't remember getting a radio but I remember the Vincents 2 blocks up Allen St. got one of the first ones & they also had an Essex car.  They had 3 kids we played with.  They always had marshmallow creme & we'd get a spoonful.  We could go into the kitchen but not the rest of the house.  It was that ways with Christiansons who had 4 daughters.  We'd sit in their kitchen & play rummy with  packs of cards.  And we'd play jacks a lot.

Barb & Dale picked up Laura's things this A.M. & Barb has them stored.  She said she'd take Dale & me out to dinner.  Dale is willing to go & will go Fri. nite.  Probably to Fernwood. Her $2,000.00 is in the bank.

We got the Penney's Christmas catalog today & it's fun looking thru it.

Concerning reading.  Remember 70+ years ago, school didn't push children like they do now. I don't remember anything but I got my library card before we moved to Hartford Ter. so I must have been reading as I was 9 when we moved -- no I was 7 if it was 1927.

Wed the 22, Rose S birthday.  We're the same age for a couple of week & then I go ahead.

Mon. Barb went to BiLo for Bert & she noticed chrysanthemums on sale 5 for 10.00 &^ they are good sized plants.  She put them on the side by the back door, & they look so nice.

I got info from Penney's -- 40% off catalog orders before the 28th.  So I sent an order for a casual jacket & matching sweater.  Jacket was 49.99 & take 40% off, that is nice.  Barb saw a sweater she liked & I ordered it -- a Christmas present.  She's in a "pink" mood as it is a bright pink.  Also ordered a pink shell to go with the sweater.   My shell & jacket are a med. bright blue.  I go for the blues.  In clothes,  not in spirit.  Too much to be thankful for to be blue.

I started another puzzle I got at KMart.  I didn't think it would be that hard.  It is.  A floral design with  lots of shades of pink.  It stayed untouched over the weekend & Mon. I started to put it together but it is a slow job.  Finally have the greens in & am working on the flowers. It also had a gazebo in the center but that was easy to put together.

Barb finally got a film developed -- some from Christmas & some of flooding at Beaty field. Barb wants me to enclose some in a letter.

Thurs the 23 - I don't know if you noticed the front steps when you were here.  They needed paint.  Yesterday Dale sanded U& washed them.  Today (A.M.) he put a coat of primer on . What an improvement.  He washed the El Camino & has it sitting in the driveway.  He said it's finished & ready to go, but there is always something he can do to make it better.  He's had a perfect week for vacation.  He doesn't work all the time - takes it easy, also.

Taury had shots because he was always biting his leg til its' bare.  Allergy shots.  Lar forgot to give him a pill at noon so Kim gave it to him at 4 pm.  That nite he woke Kim up.  She asked "Do you have to go out" & he headed for the door.  So at 3 A.M. Kim took him out so he could relieve himself.

Enough for this time.

Tuesday, August 10, 2004

How was your trip home.  I thought about all of you each hour on the hour -- figuring where you might be.

Today I called Tremblay Upholstery & got a figure for getting the seats in the eating area reupholstered.  He will put in better foam, etc.  He'll bring by samples tomorrow.  He's quite a guy & a talker.  I learned quite a bit about his life, etc.  He goes to St. John's in Pleasant Township, so we talked religion.  I probably could get a new kitchen set but these seats are comfortable to sit on & will be eve better after being fixed.

Barb didn't feel good yesterday -- headache & upset stomach.  But today she feels fine. Worked at Bert's this A.M. & then at Lynn's.

It was so nice having you here.  I enjoyed all the things we did together.

Gary Tremblay, who did the measuring, etc. said a couple of times that we have a nice home.

Yesterday was a beautiful day -- today was nice this A.M., but now it's raining.  Just what we need!

Larry & Kim must be in Fla. now.  It will be a short trip for them, but at least they get to spend a little time with Kim's sister & family.

I reread the letters I received last Sat.  I had more time to read them more carefully & digest the news.

Thurs. the 12th of Aug.

Barb & I went to Jamestown today.  We ate lunch at the Red Lobster.  I checked my double bed sheets & the fitted sheets won't fit the larger mattresses so I got 2 fitted sheets.  At Penney's & on sale.  One white, one beige to go with sheets I have.  I plan to look for a double bed mattress set to give me more space in my bedroom.  Also got a top & pair of slacks at Sears.  Blouse on sale.  Tomorrow we'll go to the Emporium, Valone's shoe store, & Blair's.

Wonder how Lar & Kim are enjoying their trip to Fla. with the storms Bonnie & Charles coming in.  Hope they'll be able to get home on Sat.

A week ago we looked forward to y our visit.  Now it seems like a dream -- a nice one as I enjoyed every minute of your visit.

Barb has a new gripe.  They're talking of putting a skateboard park at Beaty Field.  I know our church has "no skateboarding" signs up & the kids need a place.  I don't know why she lets these things bother her -- she can't stop it.  I figure "what will be will be" so accept it.  It can't be where they play football & gym -- when the days are nice.

We've chosen materials to have the kitchen seat recovered.  A medium tan.  I'm spending my children's inheritance with this project & the new mattress, bedding, etc.

I've started another jigsaw puzzle.

Bert only weighs 90 lbs & looks terrible.  She wanted a flat tummy so eats low cal food.  Her eyesight & hearing are bad & she can't stand very long.  She needs to gain weight.  Barb had to help her get out of the tub.

Now some of you are in Nova Scotia.  I know it was a good time seeing new friends again.

Fri the 13th

Barb said you called this A.M.  We've been wondering about Lar & Kim & plan to call Betsy to see if she's heard.  Too bad the weather isn't nice but now they know what it's like to be in a hurricane.

This aft. we visited the Emporium but nothing took our interest.  Then to Valone's & I bo't 2 pair of shoes.  One for walking, on sale & so comfortable.  Also got a pair of navy pumps for dress.  I'm really spending the money.  Our last stop was at a coffee place near Valone's. Barb had a piece of cake & I had cinnamon-caramel biscotti.  I've seen biscotti recipes but never tasted it.  Very good.  I had Guatemalan coffee -- the weakest of 4 flavors.  They added hot water so I enjoyed it.  It's a very nice place & we'll go there again.

This letter won't get mailed until tomorrow.

Almost forgot -- our last stop was the library.  I got 3 books:  Barbara T. Bradford's Emma's Secret; Kathy Reich's Deja Dead, a new author Ted Benson recommended & another new author Jill Marie Landis' Heat Wave.  Tho't it looked interesting.  Which gets the most attention -- books or puzzle.

I still forgot that we went to Blair's to look around but didn't buy anything.  Took a catalog & they ahve some interesting things.

Sat A.M.

I was up at 6:15 A.M., came downstairs, & read my book "Heat Wave" about a female P.I. It is so good so it looks like my puzzle will be neglected.

Good to hear from you.  Halifax must be a wonderful city to visit.

Want to get this mailed.

Monday, July 17, 2004

By now you should be over the big party & things are normal again. I know it was a great success.

I always read the USA Today state's news & saw a familiar name in Wisc. news.  Jon Erpenbach -- he introduced a bill to increase the fine on unwanted calls -- for ads, etc.

Barb is really losing her hair.  They have head coverings at the Cancer Center but Barb didn't car for the.  She got some materials & made 3.  They are really nice.  She will be bald soon. Lynn gave her a wig but Barb thinks it's a shade too light.  She bro't it to the beauty shop & they will see if they can darken it a bit.  She also had her hair cut short so there won't be so much hair around.

The roof at church has been shingled & is ready for the steeple.  It has to be painted first so it will be a couple of weeks.  We need rainless weather.  One of the members will paint it. People in the area miss the steeple.

The pastor told us she received an "arrest paper".  In Aug. she goes to "jail" at the Holiday Inn for an hour.  She asked for people to bail her out for muscular dystrophy.  She doesn't know who suggested her name but she's willing to help for a good cause.  I'm sure members will donate.  I will.

We've really have had some loud thunder blasts.  The A.M. one sounded like it was over the house.  I thought something was falling down.

The Buff. paper had a review of Sue Grafton's new book.  It sounds interesting, tho I haven't read any of her latest ones.

I sent, rather called in an order to Penneys.  For a sweater, & 2 tops.  I did it finally as of the 20th I could get free postage on an order of $25.00.  A cardigan sweater.  Getting ready for fall.  Also hope to find a suit -- maybe in Jamestown.

From 3-5 pm Perry Mason is on TV.  Most of the time you'll find me watching it.

Wed. the 21st

Barb is having treatment this A.M.  She had to be there at 9 A.M.  Kim picked her up.

I got the garbage ready & made applesauce from apples in the fridge   It was that or in a week or so, throw them out.  My "thrifty" side said "make applesauce".  Then I washed the floor.  Now I'm taking it easy before lunch.

Yesterday we got groceries & went to the Mall & CVS.  Both of us needed meds.  Barb has to take pills before & after her treatment.

Barb appreciated your card.  At a time like this cards help.

The elec. panel for the security system at Bert's must have been hit by lightning -- it was only a year old.  Mon. Barb was at her house from 8-12 waiting for a man to check it out. Ditto Tues. for the man to repair it.  Now Bert doesn't know when she'll be back as her eyes are bothering her.  She said she wants to drive when she's back in Warren but Barb thinks her driving days are over.

I always enjoy reading your library newsletter.  The library has a lot to offer.  I don't think our library has special activities for teens.  Barb wanted videos for when she is in bed so we went to the library last nite.  I got 3 books -- 2 by Sandra Brown & 1 by Catherine Coulter.  I might have read one of the Brown novels but they are very rereadable.  I didn't write down one new authors's and & now I can't remember it (her name) & it won't come back.  2 extra words -- a bad habit.

Barb was up for awhile, then went to bed.  Later she wanted a milkshake but it didn't stay down.

I fixed spaghetti & meat balls for supper.  Frozen meatballs.  Asked Dale how he liked them. Not so good -- not as good as last time.  They were meatballs I made.  What a surprise. They were a little spicy but I didn't think they were bad at all.

It's finally hot weather.  But we can't complain as so far we've had a cool summer & summer is about half over.  One more week in July then Aug. & nites get cooler in Sept.

Lar & Kim will fly to Fla.  They'll only go for 4 days but it gives them time to spend with her niece & nephew.  Never can remember which letter comes first in niece, I or E.

I started reading Best Kept Secrets by Sandra Brown.  Set in Texas & I'm enjoying it.

Thurs the 22nd

Kim & Lar were here for dinner  & then Lar & Dale installed a new Hunter Fan in Barb's room. The old fan was too noisy.  It's a nice one, the new one.

Tomorrow Kim will take me to my hair appt.  I had told Sheila I wouldn't be there this week, but Kim called to tell me she'd take me.  I know she has a busy schedule so if I miss a hair appt. that is OK.

Barb's recovery after chemo this time is much better than 3 weeks ago.  She is keeping food down & is up more.  She has to get a shot to help her blood -- so it stays normal.

Friday, July 9, 2004

I'm starting a letter early so I get the subject right.  Barb had a blood test today & her white blood cell count is low & that makes Barb's body defense against infection dangerous.  Tomorrow, Sat, she starts a series of 5 shots.  And to protect her from infection she can't go to the Mall or places where people are.

We went to the Mall but she stayed in the car.  On the way home we noticed Hatch Patch had fresh corn.  So I got some.  And yellow squash.  We have zucchini from the garden. Mixed they are so good.

I got my hair cut today & it feels so good to have it shorter.  Sheila was saying they are doing very good in their business.  With their own business almost a year old, they can see that Jerry wasn't very fair to his workers financially.  He is back doing haircuts  etc.  but isn't getting his former customers back.  He never bothered to let them know he was closing his shop.  Sheila & Sue "inherited" many of the customers & they choose to stay with S&^S. It's a dog eat dog world.

Are you as happy as Barb is with Kerry's choice of V.P. to be Edwards?  I mute ALL political ads.  Next in line is all the "Carb" ads.  The companies have to get on the band wagon & get more moola!

Barb has lost weight & hopes to stay at her present weight.

Did you notice the Mets might get a Cuban pitcher (if he passes his physical) & he could be ready before the end of the season.  23 years old.  Defected last year, I think.  They've agreed on a contract.

Kim was telling us about her sister in Fla.  She quit smoking & hopes it's for good.  She was smoking & blew smoke in her son's face.  He said, "Mom, you know I asked you not to blow smoke in my direction."  Both kids are anti smoke.  That nite her sister had a dream she quit smoking.  The next A.M. she had her coffee minus the cigarette.  She is keeping up on no smoking.  Kim hopes it really works this time.  Her husband smokes & wants to quit but he is overweight & wants to wait til he loses weight.

Sat. the 10th

In one week you'll be busy, busy, busy as well as the preceding 2 weeks.

We hope you'll be able to make it home.  I'm already dreaming about menus, etc  It is fun to make plans even if they don't come true.

My sleep schedule has changed.  I awaken around 5-6 A.M.  This A.M. I was up at 5:45. Got the table set & ready for breakfast.  I ate my cereal & decided to make coffee cake. Dale is on vacation this coming week but he said he could still have an A.M. snack.  Baked choc. chip cookies I started last nite & put the dough in the fridge.  Now I'm waiting for Dale to come so I can fix his Sat lunch.  Scrambled eggs, sausage links & English muffins.

Last Thurs I only had 3 dinner rolls & since it is a cooler day, I just set dinner rolls.  Have to bake when the weather is cool.  Suppose to warm up some.  T his summer is so much different for me.  Last year I was really lazy.  This year it is much easier to do my tasks.  Of course baking is fun work.  That fall must have done me in more than I realized.

Did the new furniture for the family room arrive.  You mention "and stretched out on the couch in the family room..."

I mentioned Dale is on vacation starting now.  He was asked if he'd like to go to school next Fri.  What was that person thinking?  Even if you don't  have special plans no one wants to give up a day of their vacation.  Naturally Dale said "No thanks!"

Mon. the 12th

Dale was up early as he needed to get a blood test before breakfast.  The Dr. tho't his cholesterol was a bit high & wanted to check.

Tues the 13th

I rained yesterday, really hard.  So Dale worked on his El Camino.  He's never finished it.

Today it is nice so this aft. he went to Jamestown.  Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown on Thurs.

Today Barb saw the Dr.  She didn't need the 5th shot.  Her blood is normal now.  She will have the 2nd chemotherapy on Wed. the 21st.  That way she'll have Mon. & Tues. if she wants to go to Bert's or Lynn's.  Bert called again last nite to see how Barb is.  S he isn't sure when she'll be home.  She is seeing her Dr. in NYC.

Kim & Lar won't be coming this Thurs. as they have other plans.

I started a puzzle -- a harder one.  I started it once & Barb finished it.  This time I'm sticking to it.  It is mostly tall tree trunks with red flowers at the base of the trees.  It will test my patience.  Barb is helping some.

Fri. A.M. the 16th.  Yesterday we went to the Mall in Jamestown or rather Lakewood.  Bon Ton was having a sale & I got a pr. of Capri pants & 3 tops, 1 was Barb's & had to wait in line at least 15 min. to pay for them.  Everyone as saying I don't really need anything but they stayed in line regardless.

Barb's hair is beginning to come out.  Now it will be more real when you lose your hair.

Lar & Kim want you to stay with them if you come.  Since Barb & I exchanged bedrooms there isn't much space there for bags, etc.  And for about 2 weeks Barb isn't that well & is in bed a lot.  But you would be here during the day for meals & we'd be together.  I want to see all of you as much as possible.

We've had so much rain.  Dale worked on his car & on a leak in the basement.  Not much time for sunning.  I hope these next 3 days will be nicer.

Hope your party had nice weather.

Sunday, July 4, 2004

Am I happy!! The Mets won 3 games at Shea against the Yankees.  Won 4 of out 5 games & 2 were shipping the Yankees.  They only bad thing they were only on TV Fri nite.  Fox had the 2 Chicago teams on Sat. & when rain interrupted they switched to N.Y. so we saw parts of the game & luckily the conclusion.  Today I watched the Braves-Philly game & they showed scores at intervals so I knew what was happening.

Barb is doing better.  Hopes to go to Bert's tomorrow.  She said the lump is shrinking already.  Hope that means good news.  It's a tough thing to go thru.

I mentioned they had a potluck at work so that made Dale think they'd get Fri. off.  He was mistaken.  They don't even get Mon, tomorrow, off but they get paid for today.  He has a 10:30 A.M. Dr. appt. tomorrow.  They get time off for that.  I'm sure glad he continues to see the Dr.  The rolls went over big, even with carb diets.  Dale put $20.00 on my dresser for making the rolls.  He asked me how much I wanted.  I said nothing because he does a lot around the house & yard.  Now he's working on a leak in the basement under the stairs. Facing north.

Turned on the A.C. this aft.  It was very muggy outside.  Might as well use it & be comfortable.

Lynn called Barb this aft. & so did Bert who is in NYC.  She'll be home the 12th.  Her ankles are swelling so she is uncomfortable.  Bert didn't want to leave Warren, but her niece pushed her to go & Bert can't say no.

Our pastor was on vacation this past week.  Ray Forstrum preached today.  He is recovering from a kidney ailment.  He made a couple of mental errors but that happens as a retired pastor grows older.  Doug Decker was in church today.  He looks good & he is in the Atlanta area.

Mon. July 5

Dale will take a week's vacation this month & then he'll get a blood test.  He will have to fast as the Dr. wants to check his cholesterol.  I never realized how much the blood can tell a Dr. Not until I started having to get blood tests.

Did Andy enjoy his umpiring?  Seeing the game from a different angle.

While watching the Braves yesterday, one of the announcers said Chipper Jones has never missed the playoffs -- since Little League.  My heart bleeds for him!!! Ha! Ha!  They won't do it this year.  It's a cycle & they've been in the good cycle for a long time.  Hard to tell who will be on top.  The Astros are a disappointment.  The N.L. East isn't that good this year.  The Mets finally have a good  outfield.  They hit against the Yankees & I hope they keep it up. They "out homered" the Yankees & that's pretty good.  I'm not biased at all!

Tues July 6

Barb had to see the Dr. today but she didn't feel up to going.  She called them & they said it is necessary to test her blood.  (She wanted to call you tonite to tell you about it but I said you work Tues. nites.)  So she went & I went with her as we were going grocery shopping afterwards.  The new cancer center is really nice.  It turned out Barb was glad she went. When the Dr. examined her, she was amazed!  The tumor had been reduced 50%.  Barb thought it felt smaller.  T hose at the Cancer Center said kemo would never make it smaller & it should be removed.  We are all elated.  I called Gen & Millie to let them know as both are concerned.  When we got home Barb called Lynn & Bert & they were happy.  She was there 1 1/2 hrs & was concerned as I waited for her.  I talked to a woman who was waiting for a ride home, so the time went fast.  Just hearing the good news made Barb feel better.  And getting out helped as well.

Thursday

Lar & Kim are going to a soccer game the end of the month with Dr. Jay & Nancy.  Kim wanted to know the date & Lar couldn't find the tickets.  (Nancy has them.)  So he started to search thru his dresser drawers.  He didn't find the tickets but he found $500.00 he had squirreled away.  He couldn't remember putting it there.  He also has money in their attic (apt) with the flying squirrels.  Kim wont' go near the squirrels.  She made almost $200.00 on her garage sale.  There were 4 of them & together they took in $700.00.