Wednesday, May 29, 2002

This is a short week due to Memorial Day.  Last Sat. nite we went to Lar & Kim's for a cookout.  I hadn't seen what had been done since I was last there -- the stones by the wood stove & Lar started with the new siding.  It does the trick -- the squirrels don't like it.  He started by the front door & around the deck to the back.  He plans to paint it when he gets time. Shingled the top gable & they add a lot.  Is gable the right word.

Mon. Barb cleaned the front porch -- I sat out there reading last nite.  Found a new, to me, author Katherine Stone.  I like her books a lot.

Last Thurs & Fri Dale had to go to school again so he was 5 days away from the job.  He enjoyed this session a lot.

I called Gen last nite & Ed was still in the hospital.  He had an MRI to see why he had blood in his head.  He has a strong will to get well.  Gen thinks they'll have to study what their future will be.  Thinks they need a smaller place, one with much less work required.

Sent a card & memorial money to Shirley C.  Need to write to Stella but haven't gotten to it yet.

Both Kim & Lynn have Hoover wind tunnel vacuum & they like them a lot.  Barb uses it at Lynn's & both Barb & Kim find it gets the animal hair up.  Lar said maybe it needed to be emptied or the bag could be in the wrong way.

Both Kim & I have "Mr. Coffee" makers & I know they are apt to leak but I find if I pour carefully & not too fast it doesn't leak when I put water in the opening.  Have to have a few problems to keep one on their toes!!

Did I say we now have 4 rose bushes & Barb picked one for a bud vase.  I just love them.  She also planted some veggies -- plants & seeds.

Enjoyed reading the article on Nordic culture.  Amused when one returnee said, I think it was Finland, the country was too Americanized -- they all spoke English.

Wed. baseball on ESPN & L.A. vs. Milwaukee.  Milwaukee fans must be very disappointed.  I'm disappointed the Mets are so up & down in scoring & winning games. 

A week from today Kim  & teachers will be happy.  Only 1 1/2 days left then.  Imagine Andy & Ed are looking forward to vacation & sleeping in.

It is Thurs. aft so I'd better finish my letter to mail tomorrow.  I spilled my coffee & some drips got on my letter.  I'm watching TV in my chair in the living room when it happened.

Was sorry to hear of Stella's death but it is also a blessing.  She was 92.  I'm really glad that Ruth is giving up her home.  Once she gets settled she'll be very happy.

Took the electric blanket off my bed today.  Think the cold weather is in the past.

We're having Andy's favorite meal tonite -- stuffed pork chops.  Planned to make a banana cream pie but the bananas didn't last -- didn't buy enough so I made a pecan pie.

I saw a Hoover wind tunnel vac in the For Sale ads in the paper.  $40.00.  Someone else didn't like theirs.

Bert has ha lady that sleeps overnite so Bert won't be alone.  Last week Elsie Mae came in about 11 pm & was tired so went right upstairs to bed.  Bert didn't realize that & tho't she hadn't come in & was concerned.  About midnight she called Dave & Lois & then called Lar & Kim waking both couples up.  Finally she found out Elsie Mae was asleep upstairs & was embarrassed.  She told Barb she'd give Lar & Kim a bottle of wine for the interruption.

I guess I've exhausted any thoughts I had to share with you.  So I'll sign off for this time.

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.

Saturday, February 16, 2002

In today's paper there is an obit of Daniel T. Goldthwaite, a former prof. U of Wi, Oshkosh and he was on the Oshkosh public library board.  He was born in Sheffield.  I wonder if you know him.  He was in the Physics & Astronomy Dept so Barb didn't know him.

Dale was in Rochester yesterday for a day of instruction.  They have to keep up their knowledge to stay a 5 Star group.  Lately 2 have been going so there is company driving.

In my life, I lived in Springfield thru high school.  Then 2 years in Minneapolis, back to Spfld. for 3 years.  Back to Mpls. for a few months, next Rockford, then Auburn, Gt. Falls & finally settled in Warren.  Everyone else in my family spent all their lives in Spfld.

Bert has ha friend visiting from Hawaii, Laura.  She married a Reese who had money.  Chuck Reese's uncle.  He was older than Laura & when he died she had his wealth.  She visits Warren -- would like to buy a home here.  She stays at the old Dr. Valone home on Market St. that is now a Bed & Breakfast.  Barb took Bert & Laura to Jamestown to lunch -- she drove, Bert paid.  Now Laura wants to go again & she'll buy Barb's lunch this time.  So they will go on Tues.  They go to 210 Pine, a private club.  Bert can't drive because her eyes aren't good enough & Laura doesn't drive, never has.

The Ash Wed. Service was very nice.  The pastor announced if anyone preferred not to get the ashes, they didn't have to come forward.  Everyone did.

I'm wondering what you both will do when Andy goes past his time limit, say 11 pm.  Especially when he has the car!  An interesting time of life - something to look forward to!! I got thru it so will you.  Dad was the worrier so I had to keep cool.

Racing is back so Dale is happy.  There has been a lot going on this week.  Right now I came upon U.SA. female hocked against Finland.  U.S. 4-0.  I've never seen women play ice hockey & it's fun to watch.

Mon. Feb 18.

We were all watching the Nascar race yesterday.  Dale was at Sam B.  Barb upstairs, me at the kitchen table.  Crashes made it exciting & a Dodge won .  Blood thirsty?

This AM I called Verizon & changed so all charges will be on one bill.  Switched from AT&T to Verizon for long distance calling.  Lar & Kim did & said it would be easier to have one bill.  We'll see how I like it.

It was cold this A.M. - 12 but it is sunny & will warm up.

Axel Nasman died.  His son Wayne was your age.  Only 1 daughter of the large family is left.  Viola & she lives in Sheffield -- her daughter is a member at St. Paul so Viola visits St. Paul.  We know each other -- she worked in the Sheffield cafeteria.  5 Nasman sons & 3 daughters.

Yesterday Lar & Kim went to a Home Show in Cleveland.  Torey spent the day with friend Nancy who owns Torey's siter Ginger.  We'll hear about it on Thurs.

Until next time.

Sunday, October 21, 2001

Be on the lookout for your birthday present.  Barb will mail it tomorrow.  (It's in the mail.)

And I haven't heard any suggestions for Christmas giving.  And Eddie's birthday.  I could buy part of the boy's gifts & if clothing is wanted, would you shop for me again, Paul.  That way Andy will get what he wants.

Today at church was our session with a layman representing the Synod.  Patty Phillips is busy taking care of the getting of pastors to preach.  So Beth Darling took care of the ballot & they had 10 willing people.  That was a big job.  I thought they might have to get all the people "from the floor" & it would take time.  These are all willing people so that is a good start.  But he warned us it won't happen tomorrow.  Some churches have been without a pastor for 3 years.   He complimented us on our church building & said that would be a good point. I feel a lot better now.  It will come but we'll need patience.

Dale had to go to school again.  He'll leave about 5 pm & will be gone Mon & Tues, coming home between 6-7 pm.  At least it's nice weather for travel.

Dale should be in the motel.  After he left, and the dishes were cleared up, etc., I decided to do some baking.  Set my Danish rolls to finish tomorrow.  Dale always takes a snack so he got the last of the choc. chip so I made choc. chips & molasses crinkle. When all was cleaned up, I sampled my cookies with a cup of fresh coffee.  Barb just went upstairs with a cup of tea and cookies.

I'm waiting for baseball to come on .  The Ariz.-Braves game should be a good one.

Did you shed tears over Sat. Wisc. loss & Green Bay's loss today.  We always think of all of you when we see those teams play.  Other times as well!

It's funny both the N.L. & A.L. teams are playing at the same time.  I have the Braves game on, but will switch during commercials to see how the Mariners are doing!

Mon. the 22nd.

Lar came over with Torey -- Lar raked leaves at Carey's & Torey was with me.  Lar closed a door at Crary's on Torey's tail & Torey spent some time at the vet's office.  It wasn't covered & Torey wags his tail a lot so it started to bleed so they took him back to the vet who wrapped it.  He had to have antibiotics and all.  He couldn't have anything to eat & he didn't eve beg for food.  I asked Lar what Kim said & she wasn't too  happy.  Accidents will happen.

Last nite I stayed up until 11:15 to see the final out that beat the Braves.   Andy was disappointed, but Grandma was happy!  I won't watch much of the Seattle-Yankees game as I'm tired.

Your lamps sound nice.  You didn't have far to go to find them.  I take it the house has been sold so there will be more new neighbors.

I'll call Ed & Gen tomorrow to wish them a Happy Anniversary and to see how Ed is doing.

It's Wed already so I must finish this.

It is 9:15 A.M. & Barb isn't up.  I wash the kitchen floor this A.M. but first I must vacuum the rugs & floor.  I did get the garbage all set for tomorrow's pick up.

Last nite, in bed, as I was reviewing the day, I remembered I forgot to call Gen.  You'll probably celebrate your birthday on Sun. so I plan to call to wish Paul Happy Birthday.  That is, if I don't forget!

Last nite we had ribs cooked in the crockpot & they were very good.  I probably could have been a little more generous with the sauce.  Next time I'll know.

We've had a lot of rain so I hope to get this mailed between the showers.

Dale got back about 6:45 pm & said it was a good session.  On the elec. systems & Dale said no one realizes how complicated it is.  He drove home in the rain.  Something is missing when he's gone.

I hear Barb is up so I'll finish this & get back to work.

New Council members.
Kelli Moore 1 yr.  Susan Gustafson's daughter.
Linda Ekey.  1 yr.  Was a Lyle.
Cindy De Chano.  1 yr.  Joined during Dad's time.
Nancy David.  3 yrs.-  former Bloom.
Rick Moore.  2 yrs. - originally from Sheffield.
Marvin Gustafson - up the St.
John Check - 2 yrs. - choir director
David Woods 3 yrs - joined during Dad's time
Jennifer Koebley 1 yr. John's daughter (Check)
Fran Decker 3 yrs.  old timer - faithful member

Saturday, March 17, 2001

Thanks for the pictures. Andy looks good in his basketball outfit. I like the bookcase. It can hold a lot of books, etc.

When I read your letter about Eddie being sick -- it was before lunch so I wasn't eating.

Dale has to go to Rochester for 3 days.  Mon-Wed.  He'll leave about 4 on Sun. so he can drive during the daylight.  The sessions are on transmissions.  Dale said Chrysler will be closing this school and in order to get the warranty money, they have to have so much schooling each year.  Hope the next school isn't too far away.

I got 3 library books on Fri. but I only like 1 of them.  One I can't get interested in & the other ones are short stories & I don't like to read short stories.

Dale had a call today from Ken Dunham -- your age -- one of the twins  they lived by Yostens.  He wanted Dale's opinion on buying a used Jeep.  He has 3 daughters ages 27, 25, 21.  One is married.  They had quite a conversation.

Dale went to Jamestown this aft. & on the way home he stopped at Camp.  Lar & Kim were cleaning there as the bedroom floor is completed.  Kim had ordered some blinds from Penney's & they were putting them up.

Barney Miller is on TV all day today & Sun & I've been watching some of them.  They are so good.

Gen called me this past week & she is in a lot of pain.  She had xrays & there are many breaks.  Ed had to get medicine & had to sign for it as it is a narcotic.  Gen hopes it will be better in a couple of weeks.  I bet it will take a lot longer to heal.

Barb decided to defrost the freezer now.  No problem with me.  She did it in Nov. & this will help because in the summer a  lot of frost comes on it.

Tomorrow, no Mon, I'm going out to lunch with Bensons, Hollertz, etc.  We're going to 5 Fords Restaurant in Tionesta.  It serves hot buffet, salad bar, & dessert bar.  Dad & I drove by it but never ate there.  Benson's will pick me up.

Kim & Lar went to a credit union dance.  There were 9 couples at their table.  They sold 50-50 tickets.  Lar bot some, Kim decided not to, the gal next to Kim did & she won  the 50-50, about $171.00.  If Kim had bo't tickets she'd won.  6 of the 8 couples at their table won the prizes.  Lar & Kim, & Betsy & her husband won nothing.  It was at St. Paul Center, Saybrook, & Kim said the food was delicious.  Ladies of the church served the meal.  It wasn't the usual fare.  They served chicken broccoli rice casserole, stuffed peppers, etc. salads & desserts.

We were supposed to get a snow storm Fri nite into Sat.  So far just flurries.  Hope it stays away.

Thurs. nite Larry did my taxes for me so that is out of the way.  Barb & Dale have their all completed.

When I talked to Gen she said John was in Holland.  Sent there by the company eh works for.  He was to be home the end of the week.

Sun. Mar. 18th

Our pastor was gone today so Roger Thelin preached & John Check had the liturgy.  They always do a good job.  I'm enclosing an interesting article from the Buffalo paper.  Roger had an interesting illustration to close his sermon.  He has spoken of using our talents -- too many have excuses so the future is in our hands.  They story -- a wise man lived on a mountain & 2 college boys wanted to play a joke on him.   They (a boy) showed him a bird caged in his hands.  Tell me is the bird dead or alive in my hand thinking if he said alive, they'd crush it & let it drop; if he said dead, they'd let it fly away.  His answer was "it's on your hand whether it lives or dies."  And so a lot of things are in our hands whether they live or die.  In today's world we are letting a log of good things die due to our neglect.

Dale will eat around 3 pm & be ready to leave by 4 or so.  It will be different without him to talk to.

We awoke to a thin layer of snow but by the time I went to church the sidewalks were clear, due to the March sun.  Really the sun & it is so nice to see, even tho it was 29.

Should start thinking about my grocery list & menus.

Sunday, June 11, 2000

Yesterday Dale got the rug & pad down in his room.  He tried to rent a rug stretcher but it was out so he still has that to do.  It is a light gray & looks so nice.  Make the room look bigger.  W hen I put clean sheets on his bed tomorrow, I'll put the new bedspread on .  He'd like new curtains.

He is working on the garage window by Carey's.  Removing paint & will repaint it.

Mon. he leaves for Rochester for 3 days of school, returning Thurs around dinner time.

Last Wed. I went out to lunch with Betty Casey.  We rode the bus & went to the Mall & ate at Ponderosa.  It has been remodeled & is much nicer now.  We had the buffet.  We shopped a bit & took the bus home.

Yesterday, Sat, it reached the 90's & was HOT.  We turned on the A.C.  Not as bad today but humid & it's getting dark & showers are predicted.

I don't think I told you but our big storm a week ago was hard on Lar & Kim.  Lightning hit & ruined a T.V., 2 telephones, & their computer.  The new Phy Ed teacher suggested to Kim they go to Circuit City in Erie & check their computers.  T hey have insurance -- $250.00 deductible.

Kim' sister & family might come this summer.  They were planning to go to Fla. in July,but won't if her sister comes here.   Kim said they'll have to take a couple of weekends & get away.

I received a letter from Warren Luthgren, my cousin in charge of Aunt Esther's estate & 6 of us, 1 nephew & 5 nieces, each received a check for $1,256.30.  I put $1000.00 in the bank & it will go for the driveway project & I kept 256.00 for me.  I'd like a suit next fall.  I don't' know when the project will get started & your summer schedule sounds so busy so I don't know when you'll see it completed.  I was surprised when there was that much money left since she was in the nursing home so long.

Yesterday A.M. I was at the library a little after 9 A.M. to return books & get more.  Got one by Anne Perry:  Bedford Square - I like her novels.  Another one by Patricia Cornwell & a new author Luanne Rice:  Follow the Stars Home.  I didn't finish it.  Felt it took too long to get into the story & I lost interest.  I'm really on a reading binge!

Good for Eddie on his book report & that he did so well in 3rd grade.  Hard to believe Andy will go into 7th & Eddie 4th grade.  Time goes too fast.

Tues - June 13 - Gen's birthday.  I'll call her later.

This is my day to clean upstairs -- the bathroom & my room.  With the bedrooms looking so nice I decided to get rid of hte file cabinet in my room.  That meant going thru papers & throwing out some of it.  I found some letters hand written when you were in Mpls. & from U.B. so you'll have those to read plus other things.  Cards, pictures, & think you'll enjoy going thru someday.  I still have to dust my room -- it took quite awhile to go thru everything.  Kim was over for awhile & we had coffee & talked.  Tomorrow Lar & Kim are going to Erie to see about a computer.  Vacation day for Lar.  Torey will come over here to keep me company & vice versa.

Some time ago, I got a bedspread for Dale's bed for 20.00 but  it didn't look that good.

Last nite Barb & I went to the Mall.  Penney's had nothing we liked so we looked at Bon Ton & we found one & we think it looks good.  Dale is away but he should like it.  A nice contrast with the light walls & light gray rug.

Barb saw a set she liked so she got hers & they look nice -- a floral print.  Sheets too.  But she needed new valences & found some plain olive green & they look nice.  So the upstairs is in pretty good shape.

Tonite we went to Perkins for supper but it wasn't that good.

K Mart had paper shredders on sale & I got one & have plenty to shred.  Anything with credit numbers or S.S. number, etc.  I don't like to just throw away so I try to cut them up.  Now it will be easier.  Stuff from Dad to throw out.  Next I have to clean Dad's top drawer & get rid of more stuff.

Want to mail this tomorrow, Wed. so this is the end ofor rhis time.

Barb saw a set she liked so she got hers & they look nice

Saturday, November 20, 1999

Your letter came today & I'll start a letter because this will be a busy first of the week in preparation for Thanksgiving.  Don't know if Barb J. is coming but if she does I'll have to fuss a little more.

Thurs. nite we heard from Kim that Torey had dug up an old bone & chewed on it.  Result he had "the runs".  Thurs. he still had to eat her e- cheese, salmon, ice cream & cookies.  That didn't help - at 2:30 A.M. he woke Kim up - he had messed on the rug in the living room -- all liquid.  He stood by the door meaning he wanted to go out.  So Kim put a coast over her pj's & took him out.  Meanwhile she tried to clean up the rug.  The worse part was Lar slept all thru this & Kim couldn't take that.  She turned on all the lights & Lar finally roused.  Kim said it's your turn if he needs to go out.  About 5:30 A.M., Kim heard Tor & Lar had to get up.  Kim said to Lar "don't let Torey eat old dug up bones."  Lar said "that's part of being a dog."  Kim - "Not for Torey, he's almost human."

Dale was in Rochester Thurs & Fri this week.  Sam B. also went so they went together.  It was about noises & squeaks in cars - at least part of it.  Dale said it was an interesting 2 days.  Shults has an agency in Erie & was asked to take over a Ford agency in Pittsburgh & get it back to be successful.  T hey have Toyota, Ford as well as Chevy & Pontiac, etc.  Dale said the one son is the one who has the smarts to be successful.  The 2 songs have taken over from the father.

Where Barb works for Bert, one bedroom ceiling had a hole in the plaster.  On Tues. someone went to plaster & also painted the ceiling & walls.  Barb didn't' work Fri. as the room wasn't finished.  So she worked today but didn't get finished so will go in tomorrow for a couple of hours.  Bert's niece doesn't come til Mon. aft. so that will help & barb can go over the downstairs on Mon.  Painting the kitchen took time so she didn't get any cleaning done.

I guess Penn State is going to lose for a 3rd time in a row.  Lots of unhappy Penn Staters around - including Cindy I'm sure.  When is Julianna a year old.

When Dale was gone Thurs. nite, it gave us a chance to have fish.  Salmon & it was delicious.  Dale is not a fish eater.  Doesn't like the smell.

Last Wed. when Sam came to pick Dale up, he was early so we talked awhile.  He divorced his wife but still they see each other.  He put winter tires on her car, check to see the storm windows were OK.  They are friends but being husband & wife won't work.  I like Sam but he's not husband material.  It was her - she spent & charged too much money - one of the problems.  There were others.  Sam was her 2nd husband & she has 2 children.  A son 16 & a daughter 14 going on 30.  Sam told her you'd better watch the girl or you'll be sorry but she said that' how kids are today.  She's an R.N. & can support herself.

Mon A.M.

I'm going out to lunch with our pastor friends at Holiday Inn.  Hollertzs won't be there as their daughter Valeria is home for a short visit.  Bensons will pick me up.

Last nite I was the last one in bed - this is Dale's early week.  Reason: I watched Law & Order from 8-11 & really enjoyed it.  I'm going to think about watching L&) on Wed. nites at 10 pm.

Luncheon date is 1 pm & we're there about 2 hours so Barb will get the groceries while I'm gone so we can go to the Mall when I get home.

Another warm day here - should be in the 60s.  Hit 59 yesterday.  Nice Nov. weather!

Guess I've covered everything.

Sunday, October 31, 1999

Our sunshine left us & it is cloudy & showers today.

I'm not watching football this aft. as skating is on & I want to see Michelle Kwan skate.

After the World Series there is life!  Now I'm reading the news to see who will be traded & where.  Wonder how the Mets' lineup will be changed - not too much I hope.  The series did me in with the late hours (it was Dale's early week 7-4) & I couldn't miss the end.  What a series.  Glad it's over.

I meant to call you Thurs. nite at 10 our time.  Went up to bed & never thought about the call - I'm 79 you understand - but I did try to 10:15 A.M. EDT but there was no answer so you must have gotten an early start.

My new chairs will be delivered on Fri. the 5th of Nov.  Larry tho't maybe Mike Brindis might like the old one & he does so I don't have to call Salvation Army.

Sheila (hair) & Sue took Fri. off as they love Halloween.  They dressed up as devils & they came by to show me their outfits.  Paid 40.00 for the wigs - they were great.  Spent 100.00 ea. on costumes.

I just flipped to watch golf as Barb said some players are wearing knickers to honor Payne Stewart.  I saw some of the funeral or memorial service on TV & it was very emotional.  That was so sad.

Kim was telling us about her sister.  She wasn't feeling well & 1 Dr said 1 thing & sent her to a specialist who had a different answer & had her all mixed up.  But things got straightened out & a cyst was removed but she might yet have to have another operation.  Her 2 aunts are close by & they have been good to help & to keep Kim informed.  Kim says she will have a huge phone bill this month as they have long conversations.

Dale has his Blazer ready for winter & will garage the Monte Carlo for the winter.   Tues. he goes to Rochester for an all-day session.  Will leave Mon. nite.  I think it's Thurs. & Fri. he goes again & this time Sam will also go.  They should have a good time!

Back to Kim - one thing that helped to upset them was the fact their mother died young & Debbie tho't she was going to die.

I'm sure you folks will have to see the Pokemon movie coming Nov. 12.  I'm enclosing a page from one of the magazines.

It's 6:35 pm & I'm set for Trick & Treat.  Have 66 candy bars - small ones & once they are gone & it isn't 8 pm I'll turn out the light.  It's from 6-8 pm.

Barb now has 4 different jobs.  Lynn wants Barb to work 6 hrs a week picking up & organizing things.  The regular cleaning gals don't do that.  She seems to enjoy the work.  Bert is always or most always around but the others aren't.  Barb has 4 different house keys.  Nancy's mother Barbara Jacobs doesn't work but plays cards the Fri. Barb is there.  She was at that one Thanksgiving dinner when she first moved here.

Tues A.M.  I want to bring this to a close & mail it when I go to vote at Calvary Baptist youth bldg.  It's showery & heavy rains are predicted so I'll get going by 8:45 A.M.

Correction - Dale's next study at Rochester won't be til the middle of the month.  He left last night at 6 pm & will be home for supper tonite.

Our summer weather has come to an end.  Colder weather is predicted to start this aft.

What's happening to Green Bay.  It's disappointing but I guess we know we don't win all the time.

Sunday, September 27, 1998

We had a thunder storm this aft. & it rained heavily.  Barb got home just in time from a bike ride.  But the bad thing it affected the T.V. - no T.V. & I bet the football fans are furious.  It's close to 6:30 so it's been off a few hours.

Barb just called Kim & they don't have any power & don't know when it will be back.  A mini tornado o W. 5th - trees & wires down.  At least we have power.

We all received Andy's thank you cards.

I hope Eddie would like those tearaway pants as I saw a pair at Penney's & got them.  I also got him a legos helicopter set he said he'd like when he was here in Aug.  Plan to get him a top also.  (Shirt.)

Kim paid - interruption.  Barb said T.V. is back on - the last payment on the camp & as a celebration they went out to dinner at Nickel Inn last nite.  Pittsburgh is ahead of Seattle 13-10 with 3 1/2 min. left.  Hope they can win for a change.  They did!

The Mets didn't do so well in their final games - in fact they were awful.

I'd like to see Houston play in the World Series.   Time will tell.

Tomorrow after work Dale goes to Rochester for a Tues. session.  He doesn't want to go as he has a lot of work on hand & after work he wants to work on the Blazer.  He's anxious to get it painted.  He's hoping they'll say he won't have to go.  What I don't like - it's another Mon. nite & because Dale has the trip, Barb & I can't get to the Mall & the grocery store.  I look forward to getting out.

Since Fri. I've read 3 books.  2 were short one.  The last The Potter's Niece by Rona Randall was my favorite.  English novel.  Later setting - after the Puritans left England & settled here.  I enjoyed it & I didn't do  much but read - only the necessities.  Took place in England but some characters had been to "the colonies"

Mon aft.

Your letter arrived today - thanks for the pictures.  Your living-dining room area looks so nice.  The new area looks like a good place to read a book.  Enjoyed reading about the boys in your letter.

Finally it has cooled off.  Sept. has been such a warm month - not even cooling off overnite.

Tomorrow I see the Dr. for a checkup.  It's suppose to be a nice day so I can walk home & stop at C.V.S. & the bank.  Will cash a check for Oct. monthly expenses.

How did your fund raiser for Jon go.  Can't remember the last name & the letter isn't close by.

This A.M. Barb went shopping at the Mall.  S he got a navy Fall jacket at BonTon.  40% off.  It is nice looking & a good buy.  Has a zip out lining, also.

My favorite "soap" in on T.V. & I'm not writing but watching so will sign off with all our love.

P.S.  I found a baseball that must be Andy's.  An M on it - must be for Michigan.  Will keep it safe.

Sunday, August 30, 1998

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, June 5, 1998

We got your letter yesterday.  Always interesting reading.

I'm watching tennis (men's) on T.V.  No American made the finals.

Dale enjoyed his 3 days in Rochester.  They had a test before they started on the studies & one when it was over.  Dale got all the answers correct.  He drives a Shults car & naturally wouldn't leave his car 3 days at the Mall.  When he returned their car, he saw lights - went in & no one was there.   Lights on, radio on & some machine not turned off.  And the place a mess.  So Dale shut the place up & locked the doors.  Those are expensive tools they work with.  I'm sure he will be cleaning up the place after work tonite.  He said the course was very interesting & worthwhile.  I told him I missed him & he said he missed home.  It would be very lonesome for me if Barb & Dale weren't here.  Last nite he mowed the lawn & edged along the sidewalk using Lar's edger.  Lar was working at Carey's.  Dale said it felt good to do physical work after sitting 3 days.

For 3 days in a row I've had to strip Dad's bed & wash it.  Today even the blanket was wet.  He doesn't know how it happens.  He hates Depends & he doesn't like sleeping downstairs.

Have you been reading about the Wrrn. Library & the latest move.  Must be tough on the new director.  Wonder if he realized what he was getting into.

Interesting interleague baseball  play this weekend.  Wonder if they'll continue it.  This time the Yankees play at the Mets & it's sold out.  (The 2nd series.)  Mets are at Boston this weekend.  I'll finally see them Sun. nite on ESPN with Jon & Joe.  Good announcers.

Buffalo Sabres didn't have it to get to the finals.  Now it's Sat aft. & soon baseball on Fox TV.

I decided to have the Erie Sun. Times delivered.  Don't have to pay for the 1st 4 Sun. as they are having a contest.  Will bee billed from Erie quarterly.

It's cool so I've been baking this week.  Made a coffee cake & raisin bars this A.M.  Also a pie shell but I'm not sure how to fill it.  Straw. are available at Hatch Patch.  3.75 qt. but they are full qts.  Took a turkey out of the freezer so we'll have it tomorrow.  Wanted the space in the freezer.  I'm having coffee & a raisin bar now.  And Mets vs. Boston is coming up.  How lucky can I get!

Summer schedule starts tomorrow.  Church starts at 9:30 A.M.  And it will be cool so I can wear my new spring outfit.  Pretty sweater (navy) & a navy print skirt.  Got it from Penney's catalog.  I did wear my new outfit.

Mon. A.M.  This day hasn't had a good start.  This is Dale's early week 7-4.  He couldn't start his car as someone tried to steal it.  They broke the starter.  Luckily he had another one o& got it fixed & was only 1/2 hr. late.  They left a knife & he didn't touch it.  He called the police & they came & took the knife & checked things over.

I started washing & put clothes in the dryer & it made a big noise so something is wrong.  Hope Dale can fix it.  Also had started the next load of dark clothes.  When they were finished there was the remains of kleenex.  I didn't check the pockets thoroly.  Now they're all on the line.  It's a cool day, cloudy at time, but there is a breeze so I hope they'll all dry OK.

Saw Mary Ann C. & asked about Susan's baby.  4 lb & 7 oz. & it was a C section.  It was a hard delivery so they decided to take it this way.  But both are doing OK - baby gaining weight.  Sara Elizabeth, a pretty name.

The Mets didn't fare so well last nite but 2 wins out of 3 isn't bad.

Have to add to Gen's letter.  Her birthday is Sat so I'll have to get it off.

Is Eddie still on medication.  You haven't mentioned how it is working, etc.