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.

Monday, April 26, 2004

I would love to sit in the reading room & have a good book in my hands & a fire in the fireplace.  What a dream.  It is a beautiful room.

Barb received your birthday gift.

I think my cold is finally over.  It's been a cough that lingered.

Congratulations to Andy for getting a summer job.  It will be a good experience.  I'm sure we'll see a big difference when we see him next.

That was a surprise about Eric getting married.  Maybe this will settle him down.  It will be an interesting weekend for you.

Last week I made an effort to make menus for the week.  Last Sat. we had a pot roast made in the crock pot.  It was delicious.  I broke it yesterday -- I was lazy & ordered pizza.  No one objected.  Will follow it the rest of the week.  Chicken broc. dish tonite.

Tomorrow we vote -- lot of it is local & statewide.  We vote at Holy Redeemer's Center -- not part of the sanctuary.  Large enough for 3 sections.  I dread the elections for pres. because of all the dads on TV & the phone calls.

My poor Mets, but then the Yankees are nothing to write home about, with their big budget. George must be having fits.  The West Coast N.L. are doing pretty good.  And I like to watch Fla play.  The Braves beat them last nite.

Tues the 27th 6:30 pm

I feel like I could take a nap but I don't want to as then maybe I wouldn't sleep when I go to bed.  Haven't done much today.  wavered between going to Bible Study this A.M. or fixing lunch for Dale on his long day.  Went to Bible Study.  Left froz. spaghetti & meat sauce & garlic bread for Dale to fix.  Also fixed snacks for him. Then Barb took me to vote.  A Todd Nyquist from Youngsville, who is running to take Jim Lynch's place as he isn't running again, got my vote.  Pres. Bush was on the ballot but I didn't push that knob.  Voted for Arlen Spector because he is more liberal than the one running against him.  You can't change an old dog -- I'm still a republican.  After that I just watched my soaps & Perry Mason.  Nothing was accomplished.  Tomorrow I"ll have to make up for it -- the big job will be washing the floor.  It is dirty.

I received an invitation to Eric's wedding.  I wrote her address down so I could send a card & gift but I can't find it.  I thought I wrote it on the back of the invitation but it isn't there.  I might have to call you or I could send it to Eric.

Bob & Lynn bot a four wheeler but it's been at work.  Scott can't wait to ride it.  Now it is at home & Scott hopes to ride it tonite.  He said I'll set the table for my Mom & Barb helped him where to put the glasses, napkins, etc.  Wonder if he got to drive it.

Dale is finishing his supper.  Waffles, scrambled eggs & sausages.  Another departure from my planned menu.  I was going to try a new recipe, a rice & shrimp dish, but I couldn't find any shrimp in the freezer.  I'll move it to next week.  I also had a waffle & scrambled eggs earlier.  I've been watching The FBI on the Discovery Channel .  How can people be so bad & so evil?

Wed the 28.  Someone in your class died.  Jeannie Smith.  54 years.  Look for Wed Apr. 28 paper for obit.

Thurs. 29 Apr.

The Dr. called during dinner time & Barb has cancer & it will mean removing the breast.  She is taking it very hard.  We don't have any details yet.  But she will have to have kemo first. Lar & Kim were here & that helped.

I'll call when we know what will happen.

Saturday, March 20, 2004

Started another 1000 pc. puzzle.  Barb helped me finish the last one.

When you wrote about sports, you mentioned darts & softball.  You forgot one -- lifting the mug to your mouth!  Ha!Ha!  Those were your bachelor days.  You mended your ways after you met JoAnna.  Right?

It must be fun to live in an area where there are so many places to shop & to have a meal.

Wed & Thurs next week, the 24th and 25th, I think, Dale goes to Rochester for school.  Will leave Wed. A.M. at 5:30, stay overnite & be home Thurs. nite.  Next Wed. is the last time for Kim & Lar to come on Wed.  Soccer will be over.  Torey will be surprised & puzzled when Dale is gone.  Dale always feeds him "Beggin' Strips".

Sun. Mar 21.

Fran Decker hasn't been in church for several Sun.  I thought maybe she was in Fla.  I found out that she fell shoveling snow & broke her hip.  Nothing was in the bulletin or newsletter.  I was surprised & I've missed the Tues. A.M. Bible studies where I would have found out.  I have a card ready to mail & also one for Viola S. who is at Warren Manor.

Spring has arrived but you wouldn't know it.  Snow flurries & cold temps.  I'm ready for lighter clothing & being able to wear short sleeves.

Wisc. is playing Pitts -- just 1st period Pitts. is ahead but it is close.  I'll keep checking (now tied.  Go Wisc!)

I ordered pizza for supper & it should be here any minute.

Tues. March 23

Last nite I called Millie & she loves her move.  There is something going every evening.  She needed a Dr. & Linda went on the internet & found a Dr. in the area who would take new patients.  Millie got an appt for early June.  She found a shop to get her hair done each Fri. On Thurs. a company comes & they can order groceries, etc. to be delivered.  I'm glad she is happy.

Dale doesn't go to school until Thurs & Fri. so he will be home so Torey will be happy.  We sit around the table & talk & I know Dale enjoys that.

I finally got to go to the Tues A.M. Bible Study.  I didn't know what to bring so I made a rice pudding & 2 others had the same idea.  I like it so it will get eaten.  It doesn't interest Barb & Dale.  We still had a good variety of food, but no coffee.  There was no coffee in the cupboard so we just had water.  No one missed the coffee.

When I got home I made dinner rolls & cleaned up.  Then started supper & now I'm sitting in my chair, enjoying TV.  Tues. nite V has good detective stories on the Learning Channel & Court TV.  Forensic Files, etc.

Do you remember Bud Carlson, Harriet Carlson Johnson's twin brother.  He died in Fla. They've lived there for many years.  He fell & broke several bones in his back & the trauma was too great.  Doug is your age & Tom is Lar's age.  Doug is in Fla. & Tom is in the area. Before Dad retired, he married Tom & his wife.

Don't think I mentioned St. Paul has new green & blue paraments.  The green will be used, I think, for Pentecost season & the blue for Advent & Christmas.  I like the blue color.  I should know my church calendar!  I know we're in the Lenten Season & Palm Sun. & Easter are soon here.  8 days & it will be April.

Thurs. nite

Lar & Kim were 15 min. late tonite.  Kim's brother Paul is in jail for 6 mo.  He got in trouble with the law trying to protect his cousin who drinks & uses dope.  Paul is no angel & Kim thinks this might help him.  He called at 6 pm & can talk for 15 min. after reversing the charges.  It's sad for Kim but she will get thru it.  She feels the responsibility for her brother. He has been married twice & divorced both times.  He has another girl friend & Kim has spoken to her on the phone.  We'll see if she (girlfriend) will see him thru this experience. Some need to learn the hard way & we stand by them, whatever.

We had pork loin tonite & I made a chocolate cake for dessert.  Wanted something different. Also set danish today -- don't like to let them get too low as I enjoy one with coffee & I use them for shacks one week for Dale.

Thurs. 3/25

Dale was up at 4:30 A.M. & left at 5:35 for Rochester for 2 days of school.  I was up at 5 A.M.  After he left I made my rolls & got them iced.  Had my shower, got dressed & stripped my bed & started a load of wash.  9 A.M. I had my hair done, 1 day early as Sheila, her husband & 2 other couples are going to Atlantic City for the weekend.  When I got home, I put the sheets in the dryer, started another load.  Made my bed up clean & looked over the paper again.  After lunch I did a little ironing.  Then it was free time for me.  Had a brief nap & now I'm watching golf on ESPN.   Player's Tour & both Tiger & Davis Love are off to a bad start.  I like to watch this course, it has some interesting greens.

Dale was suppose to go on Wed & Thurs  but it was changed to Thurs & Fri.  He went alone so I didn't have to prepare a lunch.  He has more money to spend seeing he isn't married.

Tomorrow we plan to go to Jamestown.  First Barb will work at Bert's -- we'll leave at 11 A.M. & have to be back by 3 pm as Barb picks Scott up after school & helps him with his homework.

Barb took her bike in for a checkup -- she hopes to start riding again.

When you get the Warren paper, you'll see Warren has a lot of plans for the future.  I hope they all come true.  Something needs to happen.

Time for a cup of coffee.

March 23, 2003

I'm in the L.R. watching TV & drinking coffee.  My work is done -- cleaning up after the evening meal. It is still quite light.

Today I talked to the Gustafson's - Marie said she had talked to Eddie Africa.  He will be here til fall as he is busy with things around the house & going thru papers.  The house will be put up for sale.  He has worked i Ariz. as a bellhop.  Has never owned a house or a car, but he plans to get both when he return to Ariz.  He has arthritic hands but he doesn't plan to bellhop anymore.  Suppose it would be hard to carry luggage.  Neither he or sister Judy has married.  Judy is in Oregon.  We never saw much of him as a kid.  Judy's is Barb's age.  Ed is 50 -- I don't know if he was in Lar's class, but I know Lar never played with him.

Last nite Barb & I watched a PBS special money-raising program of "The Three American Tenors".  It was a great program with a variety of songs to suit anybody watching.  With a $75.00 gift you cold get a video of the program, which we ordered.  3 younger men with an orchestra & chorus.  It was an idea of one man who searched for 3 tenors who would blend & work together   He made a good choice.  They are very personable & came across to the audience very well.  I usually send a gift of money so I did it this way this year.  I know we'll enjoy it.

Tues. after supper, Mar. 25

Another day is soon over & I'm in the L.R. watching "This Old House" & drinking my coffee.

Today we had our study at church followed by a pot luck.  Then we went grocery shopping.

This wasn't Barb's day.  She has been walking for exercise, to Bert's.  On the way home by Market & Third, she tripped & fell flat on her face.  She said why couldn't I have fallen when there wasn't any traffic.  She wasn't hurt.  Later she was making a smoothie & when she went to pour it into a glass it leaked out & made a little puddle.  Then, after it was in the glass, she decided she didn't mix it enough. She put it back, turned i ton & when she went to pour it, it spilled again.  She had 2 messes to clean up. We both had a good laugh.

Late in the aft. we had some rain & it continues.  I'm hoping tomorrow will  be rainless as I'd like to go to the bank & post office. Otherwise I'll do it on Fri.

Just got a phone call so I have something more to write about.  It was Rick Moore from church.  They are planning cottage meetings to invite members who aren't regulars in their attendance to come to the mtgs to become more informed in what is going on .  And they need homes to meet in & that was the crux of the call.  I said I'd be willing.  It won't be til the end of May or between the 15-30th.  They would have a brief Bible Study followed by a discussion of the mission of St. Paul.  I'd be responsible to send out prepared invitations & follow up if there was no response.  And I'd serve coffee & a dessert or the like.  So we'll see what happens.  There will be a mtg of the hosts & hostesses to instruct us, etc.  It is hard to refuse.

Wed the 26th

This A.M. I walked over town -- to the post office, to the bank, to the library, then home.  I put the money for Apr. in various envelopes -- food, hair, spend, etc.  After lunch I made a pie crust for strawberry pie for tomorrow.  Then I tried an oatmeal cooky recipe from the new "Taste of Home".  I' enjoying one now with a cup of coffee.  They are good.  Also made the choc. surprise cooky again.  It's getting to be a habit.

Oh, yes, before lunch I made a potato salad to go with hamburgers tonite.  And the kitchen is all cleaned up!

I started a couple of chapters of "Summer in Tuscany" by Elizabeth Adler & it will be a good one to read.  The other book is by an author new to me -- "Misfortune" by Nancy Geary.  It takes place in Southhampton, N.Y.  In "real" life the author "was a prosecutor for the Criminal Bureau of Mass. Attorney General's Office."  Sounds interesting     This is her first book & she is working on her 2nd, most likely published by now.

Thurs A.M. & it's beautiful.  Walked to Baker's Cleaners to pick up a sweater & slacks.  The weekend doesn't sound so good -- only in the 20's.  Hope they are wrong.

Saturday, January 11, 2003

We expected more snow Friday, yesterday, & we planned to go to Jamestown as soon as I got my hair done.  Luckily the snow held off til afternoon so we got our errands done & were home by 12:30.  I found a blouse on sale at Sears & a pair of shoes.  Barb found nothing but groceries she gets at Wegman's.

This has been a quiet day.  It was Dale's Sat. A.M. to work.  I had made 2 batches of cookies Fri. Aft. so I didn't bake today.  I did make 3 apple tarts waiting for Dale to come home for lunch.  He never leaves right at quitting time.  Barb came down this A.M. late & since I didn't go upstairs I didn't realize she didn't feel good, until she came downstairs about 5pm.

Dale left at 4 to go to Same B. to watch the Steelers game.  He'll eat there so I just fixed myself a chicken sandwich & had my apple tart.  Now I'm back to watching the game.  An exciting one.

Got your letter today.  Nice to see the programs.  I've never seen any similar programs before -- of big events such as for a gov.

Glad JoAnna got a job she'll enjoy.  It sounds like a lot of work to me.

When we talked about your possible job, Barb hoped you wouldn't take it.  She said the boys are still young & now you are close should there be an emergency.  With a different job you'd both be in Madison & maybe could get away.  I'm sure you were disappointed but things seem to work out for the best   At least you are not unhappy where you are & there is enough variety in your schedule to make it interesting.

Barb was also happy that the Big 10 made such a good showing in the bowl games.  Penn STate didn't make her very happy.

We got the new spring/summer Penney's catalogue but not too much in it interests us.  It is still fun to leaf thru it.

Tues A.M.

Yesterday I did the minimum work as I had an appt. for a perm in the aft.  It is good to have it cut & more curl.  Today I did the same as I'm going to Bible Study at church at 11 A.M.  Bathroom is cleaned & towels in the washing machine.  And Dale's lunch is ready.  I made beef -veggie soup yesterday so he'll have soup & a sandwich.  Unless it's his long Tues (not today) or I serve BLT. he always makes his own sandwich.

It is cold outside.  Yesterday Barb was able to take me to get my hair done & pick me up.  She said the walks were too icy.  I didn't object.

This aft. we'll get groceries.

Wed A.M. 15th

After Dale left I sat in my chair & slept for an hour.  Still dark at 7 A.M.  Now I'm listening to Warren's AM news.  Then get dressed.

Got another Bon Appetit & a lemon rice recipe sounds interesting.

Our temp 15.  The furnace keeps running but we are warm.

Leafing thru Penney's catalog I noticed the Emeril pots & pans.  The set looks very nice -- now I know what yours look like.

The Conewango Club rebuilding is looking good.  They have several columns on the Market St. entrance & it looks very nice.  Very colonial like & inviting.

We got good news -- Big K is not closing in the N. Warren Mall.  We didn't think it would as they have a good business flow.  Neither is the one in Jamestown. We wonder red about that as they never seem as busy.

Last nite the back door bell rang (already locked) & it was Lar & Torey.  Kim was at a mtg & when Lar walked Torey he headed Lar over here.  So we had a little visit after Torey had some treats.  It was cold so a brief warm up felt good.  When Tor comes without Kim  he always looks around to see if she is here.

I'd better get dressed & do a few chores like wash the floor.

Now it's Thurs A.M. 8:00 & I've showered -- in the basement shower & outside temp is 16 -- it wasn't cold with the elec. heater.  SO I'll finish this letter.  This Thurs. a banana pie is already in the fridge.  After I got breakfast ready & before I ate, I made the pie.  We're also having pork loin roast.  On Thurs. Dale can be sure of a good dinner.  He never complains.

It's 8:30 & Barb isn't up yet.  She sets her own schedule.

Lar & Kim are getting a lot of cross country skiing in.  Torey loves it.

Careys left for Fla. yesterday.  They'll leave the cold weather behind.  Dale can park his car in their garage while they are gone.

Oops -- almost forgot t his is garbage collection day so I got 5 min. of fresh air.  I bundled up as it is COLD!  But nice.  Notice the days are getting longer.

Don't have too many chores today.  The house stays straightened up -- I save my energy for getting dinner & cleaning up.  We usually sit an hour or so & talk.  Usually have H&G TV on for Weekend Warriors while I'm cleaning up.  I'm glad for the dishwasher.  I prefer my appliances to "the good old days".
 
Better get going but wanted to finish my letter.

Sunday, November 10, 2002

I've cleaned up the kitchen, brushed my teeth & washed my face & now I'm in my chair watching N. E. vs. Chicago & Chi. is ahead by 5 with 2 min. to go.   I'm hoping Chi. can hang on. This aft. I watched Pitts  vs, Atlanta & it ended in a tie.  Pitts couldn't hold the lead.  

Last Friday we went to Erie -- it was a beautiful day & we enjoyed ourselves.  First we had an early lunch at the Olive Garden.  We love eating there.  We got a good start on our Christmas shopping.  It was busy already -- people spending their Christmas Club checks.  Before we left for home we stopped at McDonald's to use the restroom & get something to drink.  I got coffee & their cookies -- like animal crackers & they are good with coffee.  Barb had taped some old favorites of my day, both popular & classical & I enjoyed the music.

I mentioned I had 2 books to read & both were so good.  Three Weeks in Paris was fun to read.  Final Target was so good but different.  More intrigue & excitement.  Iris Johansen has written many books so I'll have to read more of them.

There are 28 seconds left in the game & N.E.  just got a TD.  It's been a long 2 min.  It always is.

The house across the street went up for sale last Saturday.  Guess Frank doesn't want to live there all alone & Faye won't be back.  Wonder how long it will take to sell.  They've done a lot to the house but the landscaping needs to be updated.

Tues. Nov. 12

I got the bathroom cleaned this A.M.  Had the Bible Study at church at 11 A.M.  Because of that I didn't wash the bathroom floor -- it doesn't need to be washed weekly.  Also got the downstairs dusted so I didn't get too far off schedule.

When Barb came home this afternoon she said "I have something to show you."  It was a receipt for a new mattress set that will be delivered on Saturday A.M.  She has been talking about buying one & finally did it.

Back to this A.M.  I didn't stay at church for coffee but came home to fix Dale his lunch because this is his long day & I like to have a good lunch.  I don't do that every time -- he likes the frozen pot pies & they are filling.

This A.M. someone was looking at the house across the street.  Barb thinks it will go fast.  They have done a lot of work on the house & the wife is very artistic so I'm sure all is nice.  A couple of years ago it was one of the houses to see on the Women's Club "House Walk".  Sheila went & said the house was very nice.

We have a new heating unit at church.  It was too warm in church last Sunday.  They were back on Monday to adjust the system.

Wed. aft.

This letter will be mailed a day early.  Reason:  Last Fall Sheila won a trip to 2 for a weekend in New Orleans   At a cancer doing.  She bo't a 10.00 ticket &^ never tho't her name would be chosen.  So she & her husband are leaving on Fri.  So my appt. is for 8:30 Thurs A.M.  So it will be a rush to get going. She knows I'm an early rise so I wouldn't mind an early appt.

Kim won't be coming for dinner Thurs. nite -- she is going to a painting class.  What kind Lar didn't say, but we'll find out tomorrow nite.

At Quality they keep track of the money spent on groceries & Tues. last, I got a $50.00 gift certificate for spending a certain amt. of money.  So I have $50.00 extra to spend on groceries   Something I wouldn't ordinarily buy.

When I read about the dessert bar you passed up, I thought I'd probably sample 2-3 desserts.  The 5 Forks Restaurant has the Food Bar & we took 2-3 desserts the 2 times we were there.  But they were small pieces.  They were too good to pass up.

Lynn put off taking Scott to the Dr.  He told her he couldn't hear & wanted a hearing aid.  He has an inner ear infection & it has affected his hearing.   I h ope it will be OK after he feels better.  he seems to have a lot of ear trouble.

I'm sure you'll be happy when all the budget meetings are over & that you got most of what you hoped for.

Bert comes home late Thurs. nite.  Barb has been painting one bathroom.  She needed to do a lot of sanding to smooth it out.  Barb saved the work to just before Bert comes.  So she has been busy this week.  Never put off your work.  At least that is what I tell myself.  More next week.

Sunday, October 20, 2002

I'll start a letter earlier this week.  I read the article about families staying put in Vacherie, La.  "Fun, as young people are reared to understand it, means sitting around with relatives, drinking black coffee & telling white lies," got a chuckle from me.  Luckily they have some industry for jobs so the children can stay around.

That's great about your library being in the top 10 for your population area.  It reflects on your good work as well.

Yesterday Dale got a pocket watch -- silver in color, most likely chrome, and a Kennedy coin on the cover.  Only $10.00 at Big Lots.  The lid opens to see the time & it had a chain & fob on it.  Is that the correct term?

We went to the Mall Sat A.M. & when we got home there was a message from Warren Hollertz.  Ray & Eleanor (Youngsville) were celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary & Warren said they were coming & would I like to go with them.  I said yes & it was very nice.  We stayed about 3/4 hr (started at 2) & they had to leave as Warren preaches at a small congregation in Wilcox.  Once a month they have a 5 pm Sat. service & Anna wasn't going so he had to take her home first.  They were having a pot luck after the service & that would be too much for Anna.  She is coming along fine.  For 12 weeks she goes to a session on menu, etc. followed by exercise that is monitored.  They aren't able to go as they used to & they miss it.  After the 12 weeks they'll be on the go again.  The group will come to Warren & Holiday Inn for lunch on the 25th. 

I hope your back is better.  Do you take any pain killer for it?

Thanks for the recipes -- they sound interesteing.

Tues pm the 22nd.

At our potluck after the Study everyone had brought salads except for a rice pudding & salmon loaf.  Usually it is more well-rounded but theh saladsd were good.  NExt time everyone will bring a hot dish.

They are blacktopping 3rd Ave E.  We really needed it as 3rd is heavily used, esp. during when school is in session.

I made a spinach ravioli for supper.  It was good but I think it would be better if I used fresh spinach.  And I'd like to try the sausage ravioli. 

It is 9:20 & Dale hasn't eaten tonite.  He came home with a headache & hasn't felt like eating.

Wed. nite the 23rd.

Barb & I had planned to go to Jamestown on Fri.  She noticed the calendar & a note:  lunch with "gang" so I'm not going to Jamestown.   I'm shortening the skirt I bought & need seam binding.  Barb will pick some up for me.  I don't really need anything I can't find in Warren.  Just nice to go.

I haven't watched too much of the World Series if there is something else I like better.  I'm still rooting for the Angels.  Barb is for San Fran.  I'm watching Restore America on HGTV.  Restoring old homes & usually they have beautiful oak woodwork & not enough closet space.

Dale is OK today & ate his dinner.  It was a bad headache & he hadn't had one that bad for quite awhile.  I never have a headache -- maybe I'm the cause of them!  But Lar get bad ones & we usually only see him once a week -- on Thurs.

Heard on the TV today -- Christmas will be here in about 2 months.  Hint! Hint!  Ideas please.

It's Fri. 8 A.M. & I'm already to get my hair done.  I'll finish this letter, listen to the Warren news, put polish on my nails & it will be time to leave.  I'll go via CVS as I need a prescription filled, get my hair done, go to the P.O. for stamps, get my medicine, & go home.  Then wash a load of towels, hope to start rolls to finish Sat. &be ready at 12:45 for Bensons to pick me up.

I'm so glad lthey caught the snipers.  What a bad time for those in the D. C. area.

Don't forget gift suggestions.  I want to get 1 gift each for the boys & send money so they can shop after Christmas sales unless you get them what they'd like.  I'm thinking clothes.

I know N. Wi. has had snow but did it ever hit  your area?

Tuesday, April 23, 2002

We're going grocery shopping when Barb gets home.  She had to take care of Scott as he was sick.  She should be home at 4:30.  It's been a lazy day -- no work got done as it was Bible Study at church at 11 AM followed by a pot luck lunch.  I never know what to bring & since I love bread pudding I made that & it went over great.  Only a spoonful left & I finished it at home.  They like it, I love it!  No one else does at home.

Now supper is over & dishes put away.

I heard our library had money given to them & it had to be used for the building so that is why it was changed.  Now they have 8 computers all installed.  It is a nice looking entry.  Wonder if they could put A.C. in -- if they did.

Don't know if you remember Albert Johnson.  He left money to the church.  They'll get interest twice a year but there is a catch.  It can only be used for hymnals, books, choir robes (which are new) & the like.  It's too bad they limit how it can be spent.  He didn't have any heirs.  I know he told Dad he intended to leave money to the church.  Also Kane Luth . Home & the Salvation Army got some money.

Called  Rose yesterday.  She still doesn't know why Karen & Rick divorced.  I would never reveal to hear what we've heard.

Dale goes to Rochester Wed. nite for Thurs school.  2 go together & I like that as then they leave as soon as possibly & eat on the way.  I'll probably just have a frozen dinner.

Fri. Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown.  We'll look for a Met cap for Eddie.  When I called last Sun. Eddie said he'd still like one & he didn't get anything here in Warren.

Wed the 24th

This AM's paper announced the closing of D&K over town.  I liked to stop in there but with the Dollar Store across from BiLo & Big Lots at the Mall I guess they lost their business.

I got all my jobs done for today's schedule but I plan to start dinner rolls so I don't have to make them tomorrow.  With Dale on the way to Rochester I'll have time to get them finished.  Tomorrow A.M. I plan to make a pecan pie but prefer to have the rolls in the freezer.  We're having oven baked fish tomorrow when Lar, Kim & Torey come over.

K.C. is playing Detroit for ESPN Wed. baseball.  Not very interesting to watch.  It was more interesting when George Brett was in the booth talking with the announcers.

I just set my rolls.  In an hour or so they will be set to form & then bake.  Fresh rolls for supper.

The Lutheran came today & I usually read it cover to cover & I have a good start on the articles.

I have Buffalo channel 2 on telling about Drew Bledsoe's visit as the new QB.  It was quite a celebration & I'm sure D. B. feels good about it.  Also the day was gorgeous weatherwise.  Nothing could have been better.

Thurs A.M.

I planned to sleep til 7 A.M. but Dale forgot to turn off his alarm at 5:30.  I did go back to sleep until 6:50 A.M.  Worked til 9 A.M. & now I'm taking it easy & watching Murder She Wrote.  My pecan pie smells so good.

Was sorry to hear about Lila's death even tho I know it is for the best.  When Gen died I sent a memorial gift of money to Our Savior's Church.  I'm not sure if Lila stayed with their original church or if she went with Gen so I'll send a memorial to Charles.

Every Thurs. the Warren paper has a page of jokes & they had several good ones today & I enjoyed several hearty laughs all by myself.  Is the Spotlite section included in your edition when it arrives.

I agree you need a new drier.  When we used it last summer it took forever for a load to dry.

Pretty nice, even if it takes more of your time, to be appointed to the Task  Force on Pub. Lib. Funding & Legislation.  Nice to be able to add to your resume.

Scott has been sick this week with the flu, diarrhea, etc. so Barb has more hours working for Lynn.  Means more money.  Has  to help him with his homework.  They had their big sale last Sat. & it went very well.  Scott was sad tho, saying he'd never be able to ride in one of their semi-trucks again.

A bird is building a nest in the fir trees Lar planted in the back yard.  I can see them darting in & out.

Wednesday, April 10, 2002

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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