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.

Tuesday, May 5, 2005

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thurs. May 4

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

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

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

It warmed up today & was so nice.

Lar tilled the garden for Barb.

Will enclose John's letter & a picture.

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, April 17, 2004

Yesterday at 1 pm Barb had an appointment for a mammogram.  She got home just before 3 pm.  No one can believe the mass isn't cancerous.  The Dr. asked Barb to let him know the outcome of the biopsy that will be taken on Thurs. the 22nd.

Called Millie today to wish her a Happy Birthday.  She is 89.  She said Gen called a couple of days ago to wish her a happy Bday & then Millie talked to John.  Gen wanted to visit Millie this weekend but John has a Christmas tree farm behind the grandparents house where John lives.  He had more trees being delivered today so they couldn't go.  They'll go in the near future.

It's 1 pm & the Mets are on NY TV.  Last nite I watched Mets. vs. Pirates.  It looked good for the Mets until they took Glavine out.  Then the pitchers gave up 7 runs & Glavine's excellent game (1 hit) went for naught.  I can watch games on TBS, Braves, & FSN gives the Pirates games.

Barbara went to Erie today shopping.  She spent $200.00 on 2 blouses, & about a dozen cotton toips, so she had a nice shopping trip.  Bert had told her she didn't need any new clothes but Barb didn't agree.

Dale is thinking it is soon time for him to get his "summer" car out.  He's driving it now.

The Pirates beat the Mets again.  Tonite I'll watch the Marlins at the Braves.  It should be a good game.

One Thurs. Kim mentioned one of the boys in her class had his gym clothes stolen & wondered if Dale had any old clothes.  It just so happened Dale had a large bag of Tshirts, a couple of sweat shirts, socks & a pr of jeans.  Kim took the bag.  She let this boy pick out what he wanted & 3 other boys came & said I hear you have some clothes.  One boys saw the NASCAR socks & said I want them.  Kim said the bag emptied so far she couldn't believe it.  The only thing left was the jeans.  Legs too long.  I guess there are a lot of kids that don't have much.  Lar took 4 pr socks -- they were too tight for Dale.  Barb plans to get rid of some tops now that she has new ones.  I'm sure Dale could clean out his closet & find more to give to Goodwill.

Mon. the 19th

This A.M. at 11 I watched Boston vs. Yankees & it was a great game.  Boston overcame a Yankee lead & won the game.  Gary Thorne was the announcer & tonite he is announcing the Boston-Montreal 7th game & in the 3rd quarter it is 0-0.  It is a game for the win to go further in hockey playoff.  So if it continues to be a tie there will be overtime.  It is Patriots Day in Mass.  A holiday & that's why they had a day game, The Boston Marathon & ending with hockey.

Tues the 20th

The 3 of us are going out to dinner tonite.  I thought we should do something special on Barb's 50th birthday.  We aren't asking Lar & Kim as Lar has started his extra work & it's a rush for Kim.  We will go out on a Fri. nite as that is better for all of us.  I also ordered a special birthday cake from BiLo.  Thurs. Barb goes to Bradford for a biopsy & I will go with her.  The appt. is at 11:30 A.M. so it will be mid aft. before we get back & that means it has to be an easy menu.  Barb said we could have hamburgers so I'll make pot. salad Wed. nite & I have fruit for salad plus toppings for burgers.  I guess it will work out.  That is why I wanted something special tonite.

We had a nice dinner.  Barb had a fish platter with salmon, scallops & lobster.  Dale had surf & turf (lobster) & both enjoyed their dinners.  We enjoyed going out.

Thurs the 22nd.

I went with Barb to Bradford while she had ha Dr. appt.  He just checked her & the mammogram.  She will have a biopsy next Mon. the 26th at 3 pm.  The Dr. said she could lose her breast & should have an operation as if it's not cancerous now it could be in the future.  Next Mon. will tell.  He also said she could drive O.K. so I won't go with her next Mon.

Dale will be home right after 4 pm & take me to BiLo to pick up the birthday cake.  Nestles ice cr. cones are on sale this week & I will look & hope some are still left.  They are so good & 2/4.00 this week.

More next week.

Saturday, November 29, 2003

Meanwhile, back in Middleton

When I told Barb about your deals with Andy & Ed, I said Paul is bribing the boys to get good marks.  Barb said that's not bribery but an incentive to do better.  I hope it works!

Before I forget Lar & Kim enjoyed their time at the Bed & Breakfast, or whatever it's called. They went the first weekend in Nov -- they wanted to go in Oct when the leaves were turning, but they waited too long to all for reservations.  They enjoyed the visit.  Other rooms were filled.  One man was visiting his daughter, a student at St. Bonaventure.

We  had a nice Thanksgiving -- a good meal.

Fri it rained "cats & dogs".  Got my hair done at 9 a.m. & we waited til 11:30 & went to Holiday Inn for lunch.  Then to Gayle's store where they have a lot of Christmas things. Chuck Johnson & wife own it.  We bo't a couple of things.  Then to Blair's Outlet but we didn't see much we wanted.  Then to the Dr. office to give them my Medicare & Insurance info.  Then to the library where I got 3 books, all just about 200 pages.  2 by Sandra Brown & one by Barbara Paul.  Didn't have too much tie to browse.  We were back by 2 pm.  Barb did a couple of loads of clothes & about 3 we went to the Mall. Barb saw a sweater she tho't I'd like.  It is black with large red & purple-ish poppies.  I like it a lot.  Made by Cathy Daniels.  It has longer stems.  So we had a nice day.

The weather for Mon. is suppose to be snow flurries, but Barb thinks we'll b able to go to Erie.  I have a long list so I hope it will be successful.

This A.M. we woke up to snow -- the heavy kind.  Dale said they lost electricity for about an hour but we didn't.  His Sat. to work in the A.M.

Last Fri I got a pkg in the mail from "country Bumpkins" in Biddeford, Me.  A wooden Santa made by a Connie Verville.  It's different but very nice.  But it is a mystery -- there was no card to say who sent it.  So I don't know who to thank. I remember when I was in Jr. Hi I got a box of Whitman chocolates with no name.  I finally found out who sent it & I didn't even know him & besides he was short!  But I sure enjoyed the candy!

Sun. Nov 30

This aft. Dale put up our prelighted artificial tree.  We still h ad problems as the light in the middle of the tree wouldn't light up.  We tired checking bulbs -- finally Barb used one set of old lights & filled int he area.  It's a narrower one & fits better in our L.R.  It looks very nice, I'm please. . We still have other decorating to do, but that will happen during the week.

We finished the rest of the turkey tonite.  I made a casserole of leftover stuffing, turkey & gravy.  It was good -- Dale had a second helping.  Last night I made a turkey -broccoli quiche, so they didn't mind leftovers.

Mon. Dec 1

Thanks for your call.  I'm sorry I spoiled your surprise -- but when a pkg. comes & you know nothing about it, naturally you open it.   I really like it.

We left for Erie at 8:45 A.M. & arrived at Target at 10 A.M.  Barb returned the Spelling Ace with Thesaurus & got another one & it works.  My crossword puzzle aid.  I got gifts for the Salvation Army name.  We went to Marshall's but we didn't see anything interesting & to a kitchen & other things & I got two frames for the boy's large pictures.  They are nice & sturdy to stand on a table.  Also went to KMart.  Then on to home, stopping at Perkins for lunch in Corry.  Home by 1:45 pm in time for my 2 pm soap.

Then I started a load of wash, made Dale's bed up clean.  2 more loads of wash & I cleaned the bathroom so I got most of my Mon  duties accomplished.  By suppertime, I was tired so I ordered pizza & made a salad.  Dale likes pizza so that's no problem.

Next Sat the 6th we have a cooky walk & soup & pie luncheon at church. I'll make 2 pies for it.  I might make some cookies -- 3 doz.

Tues. the 2nd

We awoke to a snow storm & slippery roads.  First they said school would be delayed til 10 A.M.  Then they called it off because of the snow & bad roads.  Barb & I went to CVS for a prescription for me & then to Quality for groceries.  Barb drove carefully.

Looking thru my "Taste of Home" magazine I saw a recipe for Peanut Butter Choc. Chip Peanut cooky & I tried it today & it's the one Barb & Dale like best.  So I'll have to be careful & not lose this one.

I'll have to start addressing cards for Christmas & I'll have a few notes to write.

Also heard from Gerald -- a thank you card for money for June's memorial.  I dont' know if Darla wrote or Gerald & they said write, but it is no fun writing when you never get an answer, so I gave up writing.

Wed. the 3rd

We had hamburgers & macaroni 'n' cheese for supper.  The Fri. after Thanksgiving Dale & the guys don't leave for lunch.  One of the fellows bro't his G. Foreman grill & they cooked hamb. & Dale said they were so good.  So I cooked our hamb. on our Foreman grill.  This time I got ground meat with 10% fat (usually get 5% fat) & the burgers were very tasty.  Barb & I like mac & cheese but I don't think Dale is so fond it it.  Majority counts.

Got my first Christmas card today from Jim & Diane Seeley.

Barb had to cash a check today & wanted to go to the Mall & I went with her.  Kim said she could use a belt so I found one for her & got myself a pair of black slacks, size 14.  My size 16 were too baggy in the seat.  They were on sale so I might get a navy pair next time we go to the Mall.

Thurs. nite.  After dinner Lar gave Dale a haircut.  Lar walks Torey home so they both get exercise.  We have lites by the TV, on the one buffet in the D.R. & along the window bench. The Santas are under the windows. It all looks nice.

Sunday, November 16, 2003

Watching the Bills play football is pure agony.  They can't win.

Dale is on his way to Pittsburgh to go to school tomorrow.  He wasn't very happy to leave as this is the last day of Nascar racing & he hated to miss it.  As soon as I got home from church I started dinner, so he had a meal under his belt.

Barb had an enjoyable time in Erie & got some good bargains on 3 tops & 2 sweaters.  She bo't me a Franklin spelling help for my crossword puzzles, only it won't work.  She was trying to see if Kim or Lynn were going to Erie -- none were.  The Mon. after Thanksgiving there is no school & Bert w ill be in NYC, so I suggested we could return it then & also go to Marshalls which is by Target.  So maybe that would work out.  We wouldn't have to go to the Mall.  Hope it is a nice day to drive.

I finally finished my puzzle I had for the last 2 weeks.  And no missing pieces.

Glad to hear that Ed is doing well in his studies -- with a little improvement he could make the honor roll.  The next letter will tell of Andy's marks.  I can't remember if you had anything to take away when you didn't make the honor roll!!  But you "made it" regardless -- in life that is.

It is exciting when things start to show what the library will be like when it is complete.  I remember how it was with the new church.

We really like our pastor.  Her sermons are well prepared & very interesting.  Usually the Sun. after Christmas has been a united Luth. service at First Luth.  This A.M. the pastor said we would have our own service & that made me very happy.  I don't think our church should ever be closed on a Sun.  Others must believe that as well.

We had quite a snow storm on Thurs (the 13th) but it was gone by Sat.  We didn't shovel but I did sweep off the steps for the mail man.  It was pretty but too soon for me.  Sat the roads were fine for Barb to go to Erie.

Mon. Nov 17

Dale got home about 8:20 p.m.  He said he could have been home earlier but when he should turn off he was in the wrong lane & couldn't get in the right one because of the traffic. So he went 15 mi. before he could turn around.  He said the class was very interesting. They give a test first & one after the class. He didn't know any answers as it was a new subject for him.  Afterwards he got all the correct answers.  You have to get at least 70% to pass the course.  Dale does well on all the tests.

Tues the 18th

Wrote to Millie & Gen.  Forgot to get Thanksgiving cards to send except for Andy & Ed.

Remember I told you Dale got stocks in Northwest Savings   He already got a $30.00 payment in interest.  He said he'll tell them to put the interest back into the stocks.  I should have some.  Lar said he planned to invest but I never asked if he followed thru.  They sold out in short time.

Watching the weather channel & it looks like a storm is coming East next week.  Just in time for Thanksgiving travel.

I'm in my chair watching TV.  I could hear Dale working around in the kitchen.  He gave the sink a good cleaning & cleaned the side of the stove & the front of the dishwasher & trash compactor.  He couldn't stand it any longer-- the smudges, etc.  I don't take it as an insult because I know I don't keep house as well as I used to & it doesn't bother me.  I just say "thank you" & am glad he likes to clean.  How did he get to be such a perfectionist.  Being the youngest he wasn't required to do as much to help as the rest of you.

Thurs.  We had 1 1/2" of rain yesterday & that meant a little water in the basement which Dale took care of.

Re: article in Erie paper.  They plan, as of last nite's news, to keep the branch lib. opened but will lay off help & shortened the hours.  Pa. still doesn't have a budget & the schools have borrowed money to keep the schools opened.  But how long will that happen.  The gov. wants less money for the schools & other things & the legislature won't agree & neither will back down.  And borrowing money costs money & who pays for that because they can't come to terms.  Maybe we need a recall here!!!!

Saturday, August 16, 2003

Dale is out in the sun soaking up the rays.  Barb is doing 15 mi. on her bike.  Her tail bone doesn't hurt as much now.

The garage roof is completed & it looks so nice.  2 shades of lite brown.  A big improvement.

This A.M. we went to the Mall.  All summer I've been looking for a summer skirt.  Di find one & I got a large & it is too big in the waist.  Tried taking it in but it didn't look right.  Today at Bon Ton I saw one I liked a lot but it was a small.  Where were they when they had all the sizes -- or should I say where was I.

Thurs nite the Mets were suppose to be on TV & then came the black out  But they are on tonite & tomorrow aft.   They are showing improvement but it's too little to late.

I've also watched golf & Tiger is having a tough time.  Maybe he needs to play more tournaments or maybe it's an off year.

Barb went to Jamestown yesterday.  Got a couple of sleeveless tops for Bert's birthday.  She likes to wear them with a jacket.  They were on sale.  She leaves for NYC on Tues.  Barb will take a week off for vacation & wants to go to Erie.

Larry & Kim enjoyed their 2 days in Erie.  Rode bikes, etc.  And shopped the sales.  Larry got 4 prs. of shoes.  2 for work, sandals, & tennis shoes.

Mon. Dale goes to Erie for a MRI & they want him to be sleepy for the test.  Larry will take a vacation day & drive him.  Mon. nite he & another fellow worker have to go to school for a day.  Mark will drive.  Dale is taking the week of the 24th as vacation.  The Erie Dr. wants all the tests taken there.  Guess the Wrrn Hosp doesn't forward any test results.  He still will have 1 more test to take.

I love your kitchen window.  When we were remodeling, I wanted a similar one but didn't spend the money for it & now I regret it.  It would be so nice for plants & maybe I wouldn't splash on the windows as it would sit out more.  Yours is really nice because it has side windows that open.  You are really improving your home.

It is hard for me to visualize Andy at 6'2" & 205 lbs.  And Eddie will be catching up on Andy as time goes by.  2 handsome sons to be proud of.

I don't remember anything about Seabiscuit.  That was my 1st year in Mpls.

Sun. the 17th

Just had a LONG conversation with Rose S.  Jim & Diane were home yesterday.  I wanted to tell her the outcome of today's meeting at church.  After service we voted to call a pastor with 3 NO'S.  Don Ekey asked why she didn't trial preach at St. Paul but they don't do that anymore.  There is a lot more to the job besides preaching.  She will start in Oct.  That is such a relief to know we'll have a pastor.  Rose's sister Violet is in the hosp.  She has had 3 strokes in addition to Parkinson's so she has been staying with her at Violet's home while Larry works.  (When Violet was home.)  Rose thinks a nursing home will be the next step. Rose isn't that well either.  Finds it hard to walk & doesn't get out much.

The way the Mets are playing currently gives us fans hope for next y ear.  They have some great young players   The pitching needs help. Having Piazza back has given them a lift. They have won 5 in w row.  Imagine that!

It will be a blanket nite tonite & it feels good.  I'll enjoy it while it lasts.

Tues. the 19th

Barb & I went to Erie today.  First stop - Target.  I love to go there.  Picked up paper goods -- foil, Saran & they had a large Cascade on sale.  Got some small heath bears which I love with a cup of coffee.  A couple of dish towels, Pepperidge Farm cookies & I guess that is about all.

Then to the Mall.  Nothing at Penney's, got a navy blouse at Kaufmans on sale.  Barb got a medium blue slack outfit.  Then to a gadget store & got a can opener, a pair of tongs & a wooden spoon.  We stopped at Sears & noticed they have Land's End clothes & shoes but we didn't buy anything.  Ate lunch at Red Lobster.  We both had fish.  When we got home Barb noticed a bat upstairs.  She opened the door in the little room & it must have flown out. When Dale came home he couldn't find any evidence of a bat.  The roofers finished the front of the roof & toady they started ripping off the 3 layers of shingles & they must have upset a bat.

Dale & another worker were in Pittsburgh today for a class.  He said it was interesting.

Wed. A.M. the 20th

Barb took me over town & I got stamps & then went to the bank.  I moved $5000.00 from one account to my checking acct. so I can make the final payment on the roof.  When they tried to get me to tie up this money, I said no.  I want to be able to get it easily when needed.  2 yrs. ago some went to pay for the car.  Thanks to Dad's thriftiness the money is there.

It's warming up again & more humidity is expected.  It should be a cold meal on Thurs. but what I don't know.  It's spaghetti & meat balls tonite.  Think I've seen a chicken rice salad that might "fill the bill".

Just talked to Millie for 1/2 hr.  She just got back from visiting Linda at the Cape.  Linda always has things planned for them to do, so she has a good time.

I guess John got the money from the sale of Edith's house.  He also kept the Oriental rugs.

Thurs.  The roof is completed & all like it, color, etc.

Kim starts school on Mon. & the kids start on Wed.  Where did the summer go.

Sunday, May 4, 2003

I was glad to hear your library expansion is going forward. It will be a busy but rewarding time for you.  It reminds me of Dad's building program at St. Paul.  The reading room sounds so cozy.  I'm happy for you & for your library.

They announced this A.M. that on May 18th a pastor couple will be in our area.  The wife will preach in Sheffield-Ludlow parish & our committee will go to Sheffield to hear her.  The pastor to be for Warren & Sheffield committee will come to Warren. Soon after I'm sure the woman will preach in Warren so we can hear her.  I can only remember her first name Beth.  That's all they said about the.  Pastor Nancy preached today & she is so goo. We will miss her.  We'll be lucky if the pastor we get will be just as good.

My poor Mets!  They lost last nite's game & now Milwaukee is ahead 2-0.  It's only the 4th inning so there is hope.  I'm rooting for a loser.  Surprise me Mets & turn it around!

It is nice to hear how well Andy is doing in pitching for his team. Too bad Middleton is so far away.  You are lucky you can arrange your schedule so you can see Andy pitch.

WOW the Mets just got a grand slam & lead 4-2.  Now I can smile!

Wed. May 7th

We went to Erie today.  We stopped at Target on the way in & we sure like Target a lot.  We spent some time there filling our cart.  Then we went to The Olive Garden.  I enjoyed minestrone soup, bread sticks & a dessert.  Tarisumi (I tho't I memorized the correct spelling but I'm not sure).  It was delicious but very rich.  Barb had salad & a pasta dish.  Next the Mall.  Penney's where I only found a girdle.  Then to Kaufman's & I got a pretty sweater set. A delicate pink & the shell has a crocheted inset in the front neck.  Barb found a pretty deeper pink lined crocheted top.  Floral stitch -- very pretty.  Then Sears & I'm finding more styles to my liking at Sears.  Found a light & medium blue print button down the front skirt.  Just the style I like & nice material.  A deeper plain blue top to wear with it & 2 more tops.   One will be more for Fall as it is a deep brick red.  The other is a print I saw at Sears, Lakewood, NY Mall.  So I spent a little money today (all on sale) to help the economy!  It is not always that I find things I like to I took advantage of the situation.  It was fun.

Quality had small lobsters on sale so I got some & they will be added to the Sun. dinner menu.

We have one warm day & then they disappear.  It has gotten dry so the rain we hare having is appreciated.  We wore a jacket today.  Next time we go to Erie Target will be our first stop.

I'm not sure if I told you this -- a menu idea.  I got sliced roast beef (cooked-deli) & you heat it up in beef bouillon & serve it on buns with juice for dipping.  It's easy & good.  I'm fixing french fries for Dale now.  And I fixed salads.

Thurs. May 8

I made a lemon meringue pie for dessert & it is so good.  Sample it in the aft. plus a piece at dinner.

Last week Dale had a seizure & we told him he had to see a Dr.  Kim's friend said not many Dr. are taking new patients but recommended a new to the area Dr. & Dale saw him this aft. He has to have some blood tests & got a prescription for medication . He has to take 3 capsules before bedtime.  Barb said when the blood test she took -- when she gets them back she plans to call Dr. Strassburg for an appt.  They are at an age when they should have a Dr. to be a patient.  Lar & Kim go to their Dr. friend.

Tonite Lar & Dale helped Mr. Carey take a room air conditioner out of the attic.  They have to be out by the 29th.  They also plan a household sale, but first a van will come & take the furniture they want to save.  So soon we'll have new neighbors.

Between the showers, I walked to CVS to get prescription filled.

Son bedtime so I'll say good night.

Enjoyed that computer incident at the library.  Got a laugh out of it.

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, November 11, 2001

I smiled when I read the part of your letter telling what the boys gave you for your birthday, & how Andy wore one to school. Guess you aren't an "old fogey".  I'm glad you liked the shirt & sweater.  I didn't think you were conservative in your shirts.  If you are, what is Dale, who doesn't go in for bright colors.  I like the shirts they sell today.

I called Rose this past week & found out that Rick asked Karen for a divorce, after 21 years.  She said Karen wants to move to Toronto.  Rumor has it, she has a "friend" up there.  Kerstin goes to school there & loves Toronto.

Last Fri. Barb & I left at 10 AM for Erie & we ate lunch, first of all at the Olive Garden.  it's on the right hand side of the road & that is why we ate first.  We enjoyed it.

Then to shopping & we did pretty good.  Got home about 4:30 pm.  Sat. Barb started wrapping gifts & she will send her own box separately.  It is filled up & I'm not finished shopping.  I'll let you know when to watch for it.

Yesterday we went to our Mall & found a few more things.  At KMart I got a 36" imitation tree with lights.  I've always wanted one for the dining room window seat & now I have it.  It has white lights.

Don't know if you remember where the telephone was in the basement. Dale moved it to beside the window at the foot of the stairs.  Reason -- he's putting up some shelves for more storage.  Dale admits he is a pack rat.  I'm trying to get him to go thru his closet & get rid of some of the clothes he can't wear anymore.  He's decided he needs a 33 or 34 waist for pants.  Can't tuck his shirt in comfortably.

I'm watching the Steelers at Cleveland & Cleveland is ahead.  They are a much improved team.  Also watched a little of New England vs. Buffalo.  Buff. tries but doesn't do too well.

Your bedroom sounds nice.  I can visualize the arrangements.  I like to rearrange furniture but it's hard in my bedroom & in the living room because of the fireplace & TV arrangement.  So I have to be satisfied.  Anyway it's too heavy for me to move furniture now.

My eyes started to close so I took a little nap.

Lar has been over here.  He plowed (not really but can't think of the word -- here it comes, rototilled) the leaves into the garden & replaced a small tree that died, by the D.R. side of the house.  It's been in the 30s all day but now the sun is out & I can see blue sky.

Still can't find the "curl" book by Landvik but found another new author Elizabeth Lowell & the 3rd book of a trilogy "Pearl Cove".  Very good but I would find the4 3rd book first.  Was in a hurry so didn't check inside.

Read every word of your library "The Bookworm".  Very interesting.

6:20 p.m.

We ate at 5 pm.  Lar called & asked if he could bring Torey over while they went to dinner at Mike B's house.  Naturally the answer was y es.  Tor is here.  I finished cleaning up, poured a cup of coffee & went into the L.R.  AS I went thru the D.R., I saw what I tho't was a kleenex I had dropped.  It wasn't.  Fri. nit3e Tor bit the stitches out of his tail.  So for the 3rd time the vet fixed it again.  So that is why Tor is here -- they're afraid he'll do something to his tail again.  And he had removed the bandage.  I didn't know what to use, so I covered it with kleenex & Dale taped it with duct tape.  I told him he was a bag boy & to leave his tail alone.  I'm keeping my eye on him & he has been good.

No school tomorrow but a visitation for parents to see teachers.  Lar goes to the Y for soccer so Tor will come over again.

11/13.  Now it's Tues. A.M. & I'm having a coffee break.

Yesterday Barb didn't have to take care of Scott, so we went to Jamestown & got more shopping done.  I'm not wrapping gifts yet.  Last Sun. I got my Christmas cards addressed.  The hard part is coming -- writing notes on many of them.   I was glad we were able to go to J.town as next Fri. Barb works for Barb Jacobs (she was here at Thanksgiving one time when you were here), next weekend will be the or one of the busiest Fri, & the 30th is lunch with Benson's, Hollertzs, etc.

Shults Auto group has a newsletter "Auto Group Scoop" & they list the worker's anniversaries (yrs worked) & Dale's is enclosed in a little box.  The 21 is written but I didn't have time, I mean room!

Another beautiful day.  Tomorrow I have to have a blood test.  Showers are forecast but not til later in the aft.  Even the leaves are down from the try (I'm listening to "Murder She Wrote") tree out front.

Guess I've covered all the news for now.

Monday, May 14, 2001

Just got home from a session at east side PNC Bank with a financial investor.  A CD matured today & since interest is down , she suggested putting the money in a fixed annuity where the interest is higher so I did.  I can live on my Soc. Sec. & pension so in 2 years I haven't made any money on the money that accumulated when Dad was sick.  So that was put into a saving acct. that gives more interest & I'll have about 7000 plus in my chk. acct.  If I need more I can call the bank & have money put into my chk acct.  Not sure I understand it all, but I know I wasn't making any money on what sat in my chk acct.  Time will tell.

Last nite I forgot to thank you for the hanging planter.   Pretty purple petunias.  Dale gave me a lighter purple hanging basket of petunias.  They look nice on the porch.  When Ekey's delivered the basket there were no names on the card -- just Happy Mother's Day -- but I figured it came form Paul, JoAnna, Andy & Eddie.

Tomorrow I go to the dentist for a cleaning & check up.  Have to vote for local officials.  They are adding another judge to our area.

Fri. our trip to Erie was spoiled a bit because of the car acting up.  But we got some shopping done.  We didn't eat in Erie as Barb wanted to be closer to home when we ate.  We stopped at the Corry Perkins & had a good lunch.  I got a skirt but it is longer than I like, so will shorten it.  Barb got 2 skirts & other things.  We saw Janice Carlson there.

Your kitchen looks so nice & now that it's complete I'm looking forward to more pictures.

At church I found out Rose S. is in the Wrrn. Hospital, but I don't know why.

I had to turn the furnace on this A.M. as it was very chilly in the house.  We could have frost tonite -- hope it won't harm the plants.  Barb was in a hurry to get them planted.

Once I said to Barb I really like the cherry red van.  Her reply.  I wouldn't drive a red van.  Now that we're looking at end of the year cars, I told her we wouldn't have much choice of car color.  Now she's willing to drive a red car & likes the color.  Time will tell.  Dale didn't have much to say at lunch as it was a busy A.M. for him.  He plans to talk to Eric Nystrom, one of the salesmen.  I'm getting excited & hope it works out.

The Darling's girls wedding was so beautiful.  Lots of flowers, lavendar dresses for teh Maid of ohonor (her sister Elizabeth) & bridesmaids.  The wedding gown was so pretty.  Chris, her brother U& his wife were in the wedding as well as the 9-10 month baby girl, carried in Chris' arm.s  Suppose to be flower girl!  Remember Marie Whipple & her husband -- (your classmate) - their 2 daughters were Jr. bridesmaids & they looked so nice.  10th and 8th graders.  The oldest girl has a steady boyfriend, who was at the wedding.  Elizabeth & Jennifer took care of them when they were small -- the girls & Marie W. & Diane Darling are good friends.

Every other Sat & Sun mornings I like to fix a special breakfast.  So I tried frozen French toast to make it easier.  It bombed -- Dale prefers the Fr. toast I make.  I tried but it didn't work.

Tomorrow Tues the 15th Barb & I will go up to Shults and talk to Eric Nystrom, a salesman & a friend of Dale's.  I hope we can do it.

Tues. May 15th

This has been some day.  We were at Shults at 9:30 A.M. & Eric showed us the car Dale liked.  We rode in it & it was nice.  A maroon color.  Then Eric needed something from our car & Barb went to get it -0- registration, I think.  Barb stopped to look at a red van that was more expensive -- it had the tilted wheel (steering), cruise control, elec. windows, etc. & she said she'd put 2000.00 toward it as the cruise control would be great for the trip.  So while Eric took our car to find out the trade-in value, Barb & I test drove it.  Both ride nice.  So we settled on the red car & we drove it home for lunch.  I had a 1 pm dentist appt & the Tues Dale works late, I try to make a nice lunch for him. Today he made his own lunch.

Sherrie, in charge of finances had a 1 pm meeting in Jamestown so they wanted us to come back.  We said 2 pm but I was at the dentist til 1:45 so I called & asked if we could come after 4 pm.  It was OK so we finished all the signings & paying for the car.  And Sherrie noticed we had received the relative of employee discount which amounted to $750.  $1800 for the old van.  It cost $18,604.14 so we are pretty lucky.  Dodge van.  I didn't realize buying a car could be so tiring.  The A.M. was about 2 1/2 hrs.  Rush home, eat, go to dentist.  Was glad for a little rest before 4 pm.  Barb had to pick up Scott.  Both he & Marisa love the van.  Mr. Carey was outside washing his car.  Barb told him we were going on a trip this summer & wanted a better car.  He said one thing your car will stand out.  Barb took me to the dentist & then went over to show the van to Larry.  He loves it, color & all.  When we were leaving Shults we saw Dale & he said it's a nice color.  When he left for work in A.M., he said don't rush into anything.  And here we had a new car at noon.

Sherrie loves my Danish pastry & asked for the recipe.  She noticed I didn't get the employee discount & added it.t  So I will make rolls &^ bring some to her when we go to the Mall.  She knows Kim & Lar.  When the car business was finished, we went for groceries.  Had an easy supper.   Grilled weiners, baked beans & fruit.  I had a ice cream cone for dessert.  It's nice to sit & watch TV.

On Tuesday, I usually clean my room & the bathroom.  Not today.  Washed towels & will clean tomorrow.

Noticed in the paper today, an ad for a new drive-in theater as you enter Jamestown from Warren.  2 screens so it must be a large area.  Before all the stores & the restaurant where we went for my birthday.

Today was a beautiful day.  Clear & cool.

I hear Dale coming now.  He'll either have what we had for supper or frozen spaghetti or lasagna.  He doesn't mind a frozen dinner & they are nice ot have on hand for when I'm lazy!  I like the lasagna better than the spaghetti.

Should mail this tomorrow so will send my love to all of you

Sunday, November 12, 2000

Kim's friend said she wouldn't mind having the twin mattress & spring that we had for Dad.  She is the one who bought a house last summer & wanted to paint the room first.   Tonite Lar & Dale brought it over.  Then Dale decided to straighten up where the mattress was.  H e has gotten rid of the old junk but a lot more is left up there.  More power to him -- just so I don't have to do it.  Sat. Lar & Dale took the old refrigerator out of the basement & to the junk yard -- someone who takes care of old refrig, stoves, cars, etc.  Now he has a new shelf in it place to store his stuff.  How could I be so lucky to have "kids" who like to clean & put things in order.

Last Fri. Barb & I went to Erie driving in the rain & it continued all day.  We were successful in our purchases.  Barb wanted to eat lunch at The Olive Garden but it meant crossing the street in a lot of traffic.  So we decided to eat at The Fox & Hounds -- a pub.  It is close to the mall, on the same side & easy to get to.  We enjoyed it a lot.  A new place -- we had fish & chips & they were very good.  Even the coffee was excellent -- not bitter taste.  In the rest room was a "spout" containing mouth wash & paper cups to use.  I suppose for those who have a cocktail lunch but don't want the alcohol breath.  Never have seen that, but then I'm not in many pubs!

What are you doing for your back.  Don't neglect it!!

Wed A.M. the 15th

I'd better finish this or you'll be here before the letter arrives.

We awoke to show flakes this A.M.  A wet snow.  Flurries are predicted the rest of the week.  Just hope the weather will be OK for your travel.

Did I say I have a 20 lb. turkey in the freezer.  A Butterball.  That should be enough for sandwiches on Fri.  Bon Ton is having lots of coupon sales.  Practically every weekend now.

Barb has been painting Bert's bedroom while she is in NYC and is about finished.  She said it looks nice.  Bert will be back for Thanksgiving.

Dale said they get their new uniforms for work today.  He was late coming home Mon nite.  Reason:  stayed to clean up & put all the transmission tools near his working area.  Found some tools he didn't realize they had.  He's working on a truck whose transmission was ruined plus other things by carelessness.  Cost $10,000.  Insurance will pay but then this fellow will be dropped as he's taken advantage of the ins. co.  Dale says the trans- fluid is suppose to be thin & this was very thick.  And nit isn't an old truck.  Dale doesn't appreciate people who don't take care of their vehicles.  Kim gets irritated if people don't take proper care of their animals, esp. dogs.  Leaving them out in zero weather, hitting them, etc.  I'm sure we all feel that way.  Torey gets more love than neglected kids.  That's life, I guess.

Saturday, March 14, 1987

I'm enclosing some news articles of what's been happening here. Not kept, apparently.

Was nice to get your good news about the house.  Sounds wonderful.  Somehow I find it hard to think of Paul mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, etc.  But you'll love having your own home & really feeling settled.  We look forward to a visit next Fall.  Both a baby & a house to see.

We are enjoying attending First Luth.   Dad isn't as happy having 2 Sun. services ( 8 A.M. + 11 A.M.) & Wed. Lenten midweek.  On Wed. they have a supper at 6.  Soup is provided & people bring either sandwiches or salad.  It is nice.  Think we'll attend First Church at times later on.  The pastor's hip replacement was successful but he can't be in a car for 3 weeks.  He comes back for Holy Week &^ that will be a busy week to start after a serious operation.  The people have been so nice to us.

Kim's friends are having a shower for her Mar. 26.  It will be a large one & it will be at St. Joseph school.

We meet Barb next Sat at 1 pm in Erie.  Did I say they have a new Red Lobster by the Mall & I'd like to eat there.  Some Sun. Kim & Lar would like to go with us to Millcreek Mall, shop & then eat at The Red Lobster.  I hope all will go well with Barb at home.  We're glad to have her - hope she can change to her old self -- date, etc.

Not much going on in our lives.  Still reading a lot, crocheting, eating out, & enjoying retirement in general.

Svea is staying with Ruth & Rudy - they thought it was too much for Lila with Min not too week.  But they plan to come to the wedding & so do Ruth & Rudy.  Oh yes, Lar wants your measurements or has he called. I haven't written for awhile & he said he'd call.

Wednesday, July 9, 1986

It's still too warm & muggy to clean so I'll put it off til Thurs. & writer letters.  Dad went to get a haircut & then we'll get groceries.

Yesterday was a fun day.  Ate breakfast at Perkins & decided to drive to Erie.  Went to the Factory Outlet Mall & got a couple of things.  Then to Millcreek Mall & found 2 skirts on sale & Dad got a pair of pants.  At lunch at the Brown Derby, walked around some more & returned home.  Tried on my purchases & then went out to eat dinner.   My kind of day.

Interrupted by the phone & it was Ruth to tell us Svea had a stroke & is in the hospital.  She can talk but is paralyzed.  Now things might come to a head & she'll realize she can't live alone in that big house -- keep it up, lawns, etc.

Min, Lila & Gen might go down there to be with her as they were planning a trip.

And Stella won her case but doesn't know yet how much money she'll get back.  Not all of it.

And Dan decided he should go back to Palmer so his wife called & they were having a crash course (10 days) on Therapy (what he needed).  He was accepted, got the money & got there & got 2 A's on the courses.  Now he'll have two more Utah tests to take & then he'll be able to be a Chiropractor.  A new Dr. is in Utah & he became friends with Dan & encouraged him & maybe after the 1st of the year Dan's dreams can be fulfilled.  He can go into practice with this Dr.  Now he is a school custodian & that can't support his family too easily.

Joyce & Greg bot a house on Puget Sound, South of Everett.  They'll be moving soon.

We had a quiet 4th.  Lar & Kim stopped by in the evening.  I got a corn popper for the microwave & it works well.  Cheaper than buying the micro popcorn.  With this you can use the regular popcorn.

Afternoon baseball as the Mets play the Reds - they'd better win this aft.

Dad hasn't played golf yet this week.  Mon. to hot; yesterday we were gone; today wet.  Maybe tomorrow as it is suppose to be nicer.

Last nite Lar & Kim & Lee Borger & his wife rode their motorcycles to Nik l Inn for dinner.

Next Mon. we are going to Peek'n'Peak with Bensons, Hollertzs & Shaffers.

How are things with you.