Sunday, July 9, 2006

I'm sure you've been taking it easy after a busy week.  You'll be glad to get back to work and a regular schedule.

This A.M. in church Fran Decker said to me "I still miss Pastor Nelson."  Things have changed since his time & not always for the good.

Today I started watching the Braves on TV, then to watch the Pirates.  When it was time for golf, I watched golf -- Tiger came in 2nd.  Then I heard World Soccer was tied & there would be 5 kicks for each team & I watched that.  Italy won over France.  Back to watch the end of golf.  Tiger couldn't quite do it.  Then we watched the end of NASCAR race which was just as exciting.  The Mets weren't on TV but I was glad to see they won.  Dale noticed in NASCAR there is a car sponsored by Menard's & driven by a Paul Menard.  He is from Wi & we wonder if he is one of the store Menard's.  We recognize the name from visits.

Probably you had fluffernutter as a kid because your mother liked them & still does.  None of the 4 of your will eat them now but still love peanut butter.

Back to the fruit pizza.  After I mentioned it to Sheila she made one for the 4th & it went over big.  I still plan to make it & have the Pillsbury dough in the fridge.

Forgot to mention concerning the 4th, there was no 6 A.M. bomb this year.  Appreciated by Barb & Dale.  Wasn't used during the day either.

At times I've mentioned Dale's headaches.  When he was the Dr. in Erie, he mentioned his headaches so she gave him a prescription & it really works for him.  I'm glad as they really got him down.

Kim didn't come over last Thurs.  She & her friends were getting ready for a Fri. rummage sale.  Lar comes.

Barb has been receiving a "Muscle Body" magazine & she didn't order it.  I laugh when it comes with muscle body pictures.  She has received 2 copies so far & never looks at them.  The3 city colelctes the newspapers & bottles & certain plastic bottles.  Barb takes magazines, etc. to a place in Sugar Grove that takes them.

Last nite Barb fixed a taco salad for herself & showed it to Dale & me.  It looked so good & Dale said he'd eat one so I have something new to fix for him.  Tacos aren't my "dish of tea".  I'm glad Dale likes salads on hot days.

Now I'm watching Sun. nite baseball.  I should be "TV'd out".

I told Dale I have another reason to be glad.  Barb, Dale & I live together.  Marie Mathis lost weight & is frail looking.  Howard Ford's wife has lost weight since his death.  Living alone you aren't as apt to fix meals & eat well so I'm glad I have to fox meals & have an appetite.  Last night we had a crock pot meal, tonite pork chops with sauerkraut.  Saved some of the kraut for lunch tomorrow.  Hot dogs & kraut.

Last Wed. Barb got what they call a "soft perm: to give her hair a little more body.  It looks nice.

The Chicago White Sox & Boston Red Sox are in the 19th inning of a tie game.  That's like starting a 3rd game.  They will be tired out.  That hasn't happened in a long time.

Mon. July 10

I'm watching the Home Run Derby on ESPN.  The Mets are represented by David Wright.


I'm also "rereading" some of my cookbooks, among them your library cookbook "Read 'em and Eat" & I found 2 recipes I missed before.  Fruit pizza by Marh Nelson & "Baked Chicken with Stuffing" by Debbie Kiedinger.  Plan to make the fruit pizza for Thurs. nite.

Tues. July 11

Tonite I fixed zucchini & yellow squash from the garden & Barb just showed me about 5 more of them.  Will have to give some away.  When it cools off I could make zucc. bread or even a zucc. chocolate cake.

And fresh local corn is available & will get some for Thurs nite at Hatch Patch.

Wed the 12th

Today Barb cleaned the dining room & it looks nice.  Thought about cleaning the living room tomorrow but seeing Lar & Kim come tomorrow it will wait.  I washed my cups & saucers & other things I have out.  I don't do walls or windows anymore.

We're having a rainy, hot & humid spell.  Not very comfortable for working.

Last nite I watched the All Star game for 4 innings & went to bed.  Disappointed to see this A.M. the N.L. lost again.  But the 2 Mets players scored the 2 runs.  Go Mets!

The Braves won't be "America's Team" after '07.  TBS won't feature them but a different way to present baseball.  They plan to have a Sun. aft. game, choosing teams the way ESPN does.  Also they'll get the first playoff games to televise.  They are showing less Braves games this year & less next year.

Pittsburgh got a lot of compliments on the new ballpark.  And visitors found the city much cleaner.  I'm sure you watched some of the game, etc.  Did it bring back memories?

Fri the 14th

Last nite Kim said the 3 of them earned $300 from their rummage sale.  Gave $125 of it to the Animal Shelter.  They have started building their new quarters.  Lar will do the landscaping gratis.  I said I'd give $50 toward shrubbery.  Yesterday the gals divided the rest of the money & went to the Casino & gambled it all away.  Kim plans to take us again this summer, but I've decided I don't care to go to the casino anymore.  Barb says the Indians are getting back at Americans by taking their money at the casino.  They are hauling it in all right.

Got your letter today.  Glad your party was another success.  I'll save anymore for the next letter.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

The sportsheadline "Steelers hold their breath" in our A.M. paper was true of all Western Pa/. fans, when they heard the news of "Big Ben's" motorcycle accident.  Just hope he will be O.K.

Yesterday A.M.'s temp was 43.  I was freezing & Dale said put the heat on.  I hated to do that because it is practically the middle of June.  But I did to get the chill off the house.  This A.M. was better -- no heat needed.

Last nite I was in bed by 9:30 & asleep as soon as I hit the pillow.  It was a busy day for me.  Barb said she planned to ride her bike so I thought she'd put off getting groceries til today.  So late A.M., I set dinner rolls since it was a cool day.  After lunch, she came dressed to go grocery shopping & said "Want to go to the Mall?"  "Sure," I said.  By the time we got home it was 2:30.  Punched the dough down, put away groceries, rested 10 min. with a cup of coffee.  Then formed & baked my rolls.  Cleaned up the dishes.  Sat & had another cup of coffee.  Planned an easy meal -- spaghetti & meatballs.  Frozen.  I had already cooked & sauce from a jar equals an easy meal.  Plus salad & Italian bread.  Good meal.

Today I'm fixing chop suey & after hearing you cooked meat cubes in the crockpot I decided to try it using beef broth & cr. mushroom soup plus onions & celery.  Easier because the other way I have to watch the liquid doesn't boil away.  Maybe I won't have to thicken it.

 Last Thurs. Kim had good news.  Kim, Betsy & Michelle (she has a membership) go to the Moose Club & take chances on a money thing  you have to sign up on Sun. nite in order to win.  The pile was growing, they signed up, & Kim got a call saying she had won $3400.00.  She couldn't believe it.  They split their winnings 3 ways but that still is a nice bit of cash.  They always tip the bartender & Kim gave her $35.00.

Lar & Kim are planning to add a screened porch off the 2nd bedroom & hope to do it this summer.  Her brother Paul might come up from Atlanta for 2 weeks & help build it.  Too many bugs spoil sitting on the deck.

Today I'm not doing much.  Changed my sheets & did 2 loads of wash.  Got some new sheets yesterday -- the reason for a 2nd load.

Finally the N.L. gets some attention from ESPN.  Mets vs. Phillies Wed. 7 pm.  My lucky day!  Has Andy changed his mind concerning the Mets!  Also the Wed aft game have N.L. teams playing.

Thank you for the picture of Andy & "his parents" in his graduation robe.  Very nice picture of all of you.  Did he find a summer job?

I also got of picture of our pastor's son, taken for his 1st birthday.  In a think you note -- he is so cute.

 Barb sold about $18.00 worth of stuff in the rummage sale.  Lynn didn't sell as much as she hoped to, so will have another one this Thurs & Fri.  Barb is looking for anything I might have that could sell.  found a few things.  I'm not suppose to say anything.  Neither was Barb, but by the time you read this & who would you tell anyway, Lynn & Bob & her parents sold the Masterson property to an oil co.  But they kept some of it where the lockers are.  By the time you read this it could be public knowledge.  Imagine it was a tidy piece for the property.

Hatch Patch has strawberries for sale.  We didn't get any yesterday because we had some from the store, but maybe this week we will.  Nothing like home grown berries.

Dale had to see the Dr in Erie yesterday.  He was home in time for lunch -- a 9:30 appt. -- so he missed a half day of work.  They aren't very bush lately.

Thurs June 15

ESPN advertised Mets vs. Phillies baseball for Wed. nite, right up to 7 pm.  And did they show the game?  No!  And I watched old sports news til 7:30 & no explanation why they didn't show it.  I was very disappointed.  But the Mets won & that is the main thing.  Channel 15 will have them on Sat & Sun. when they play the Orioles at home.  NY TV.

This A.M. after breakfast, Dale went in the basement to put his work shoes, etc. came back to get his snack & ice water & said, "I think we have a mouse in the basement."  How he got in is beyond us.  Dale left the back door opened a bit so he could run out.  Some time later I shut the door & hoped it had exited.  When I went for a shower I didn't see anything or hear any noises.

We got local strawberries from Hatch Patchg & this A.M. I made a strawberry pie.  It looks good.  I plan to grill pork chops, baked taters, corn pudding (not too hot yet for the oven) & applesauce & pie for dessert.  Sounds good to me.

I called Gen & again she said "I wish you'd drop in and visit".  I tried to tell her I'm too far away to drop in & I don't travel anymore.  She doesn't understand I live in western Pa, a good day's drive.

After supper.

I told you Barb wanted more stuff for the rummage sale.  When I quit working, Mr. McFate gave me a cooky jar.   It looks like the Pillsbury Dough Boy but it is a numbered McCoy pottery cooky jar.  The Chef.  When Lynn saw it she said she'd check the Internet & it is worth $80-$100 & Barb was going to put $4.00 price on it.  Now we'll take it home & put it on the shelf.  Maybe we won't get that much but I want more than 4.00 for it.  It is 24 yrs. old.  I have things that were wedding gifts so maybe there is something worthwhile in the bunch.

This is all the news for this tie. 

Sunday, June 12, 2005

Last nite I was set at 7:10 p, to watch the Mets vs. LA-A interleague play.  There was a rain delay of about an hour or so.  At 11 pm I went to bed not knowing the outcome.  Was I ever surprised this A.M. when I turned to ESPN2 & saw the Mets won 5-3.  I missed the exciting ending.  But I saw it today when they reviewed it before today's game -- and the Mets lost this aft.

Noticed that Atlanta lost 11-5 so that helped ease the pain.  Pittsburgh also lost in the 13th inning.  I've been watching their games during the week & they are really improving.  and their announcers are more laid back & don't talk all the time so I like them.

We're really had a week of hut humid weather.  We started 9:30 services but it was still warm so I had enough.  When I got home I turned on the A.C. & closed the windows.  It has been very comfortable.  It is suppose to cool off by Wed. -- just in time for me to do something.

I can see you are getting ready for your party working outside so the yard looks nice.  And having the rugs cleaned so the inside looks nice.  It will be a busy several weeks for you folks.

I have to correct myself.  Scott did go to school last Fri.  Lynn said he had to.  Lynn's mother gave Barb a puzzle she got for the lake but it was too hard & they gave up.  It was very hard but Barb finished it.  I know I never could have done it.  Too many similar pieces in shapes & colors.

In politics, Buffalo is really having money problems.  They were audited by the state & if they don't get a workable budget by Tues. the 14th a state control board will take over & have the power to control the money.  They have a high deficit.  They cut taxes but not the spending.  It is a mess & changes will be coming.  They lost their credit rating.  Some say no increase in taxes, others say we must have one to get out of this mess.  I look forward to WGRZ 5 pm news.

Barb told me Scott had the choice of working with a tutor, most likely a teacher, or with Barb.  He chose Barb.  They still have to make a schedule, etc.  Lynn wants to take Scott off his meds this summer but Barb said he'll never be able to be still & attentive if she does.  He can't be without it if you want to accomplish anything.

Mon A.M.

I just called Gen to wish her a happy birthday.  It is hard to have much of a conversation with her.  I always ask about her cat.  She seems to know it was her birthday but not her age.

I wasn't surprised you use butter to fry your breakfast.  I always buy butter when it is on sale & put it in the freezer.  I always have butter in the butter dish & use it for Christmas baking.  Either Land o Lakes, Quality brand & Wegman's brands.  So I use it & olive oil.

This is Dale's early week so I was dressed & put out the glass & pop cans to be collected early.  Then I got Dale's sheets, etc. & had a load going before Dale left.  Now the 3rd load -- towels -- are in the dryer.  Watered my plants on the porch & now I'm taking it easy.

Called Kim to find out when we should celebrate her birthday.  It will be this Thurs.  Asked about the menu & she would like hamburgers & potato salad.  She doesn't eat desserts -- she said:  make something Larry likes.  Ill make carrot cake & she can blow out the candles.  Also tom. lettuce etc. & fruit salad.  It is suppose to cool off so I can bake, as I already mentioned!

Barb wants to go to Jamestown Wed, & she'll get ground meat there.  I'm not sure if I'll go.

We got our groceries & Barb stopped at Bert's to deliver what she wanted.  I saw Kim working outside the carriage house so I walked over for a few moments.  Sat. nite the Hospital Guild had a party at Bets field & Lar & Kim always go with Betsy M. & her husband.  They had a great time.  A large tent, delicious food & dancing.  It's a money maker - -you'll read about it when the Wrrn paper arrives.  Also last Wed-Sat there was a ribs festival downtown Wrrn. & that always brings out a crowd.  Lar & Kim went Wed. nite for ribs.

Holiday Inn has the Sun. A.M. breakfast buffet again so maybe we'll go one Sun.  Kim would have gone with us last year if she'd known.  But it was a spur of the moment thing when you were here.

Barb went to Jamestown this aft & as she was turning onto Rt. 62 coming home, she was stopped for speeding.  She was going 68 M.P.H.  She will have a fine to pay.

We finally got some rain after supper & it cooled things off.  Finally!

Hatch Patch has strawberries & Barb wants a strawberry pie for Thurs.

Wed the 15th -- 2 pm

I surprised myself today.  We awoke to cooler weather so after breakfast I made use of ripe bananas & rolling out & baking a pie shell.  Then I cleaned the bathroom, washed towels, & tho't about lunch.  B.L.T's.  After lunch I looked at the kitchen floor & decided it would look better if I washed it, so I did.  And it looks better.  Now I'm resting & have only supper to think about.

I'm still finding out about my children.  Can't get her first name but Mrs. Jenkins from First Luth. called yesterday.  She visits the nursing home & talked to Rose.  Rose couldn't remember if Barb was still in the Navy.  Mrs. J. said she'd call me & find out.  She asked about you -- she remembers you & Rick Nasman went to their Youth Group, (most likely to see Mary Sandblade) I don't remember hearing that.

Thurs. aft.  Watching the U.S. Open golf.  A hard course.  Got my pot. salad & strawberry pie made this A.M.

Friday, July 9, 2004

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sat. the 10th

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mon. the 12th

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

Tues the 13th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope your party had nice weather.

Saturday, June 19, 2004

Finally a clear, humid-free day.  It will dry things out so Dale can mow the lawn later.  He's going to Jamestown this aft.

I'm watching golf.  Very interesting golf course.

Barb's body is sore but she's doing fine.  They put her in a room & she could hear the A.C. fan & some noises drive her crazy.  She knows she couldn't spend the time or night there. But she was better off in her own bed anyway.  Next it's the kemo.  Hope it all works out in her favor.

Last nite at the Mets-Detroit game they honored Mike Piazza for breaking the catcher's home run record.  Yogi Berra, Pudge (Boston & Chicago), & the kid, Met catcher in 80s (can't remember names) were there.  He got a yellow 300 HP sports car from a Chevy dealer, a watch & a bottle of fine French dessert wine from his fellow players, plus other things.  It was very nice.  He said to the Detroit catcher, Pudge Rodre* -- can't spell it, former Marlin catcher, "I hope I'll be at a doing for you after you've broken my record".  And the Mets broke a 2-2 tie in the 9th with 2 outs & 2 strikes on the one at the plate.   Mike Cameron home run. Exciting.

I learned how to spell "Rodriguez"  I'm watching the Mets & saw it in the line up.

The fall Penney's catalog (dream book) came yesterday & have enjoyed looking thru it.  I've seen a couple of things I'd like to order.

It's a beautiful day (Sun. June 20) 2 days in a row.

This A.M. I couldn't decide about going to church.  At 8:55 A.M. I was just getting dressed, but otherwise ready.  I decided to go even tho I coughed during the nite.  I was glad I did. There was a baptism -- the 4th daughter -- & she is a little doll.  And I didn't cough.  9:30 service.

Do you remember Linda Jacobson -- her brother your age -- she was in church today.  she is so attractive but way too heavy.  She teaches in Fla, has for a long time, and loves Fla.  It was in the hi 40s this A.M. & she felt the cold.

As soon as the Mets-Detroit game is over, I'll switch to golf.  Oh yes, the Mets are leading 5-1 in the 7th inning.  And Atlanta is losing.  Did Andy notice as of 6-20 the Mets are ahead of the Braves!  Hi Andy.  Hope they still are when this letter is read.

In golf Barb was rooting for Phil Mickelson & I was rooting for Retief Goosen (S. Africa) & my man won.  To me it seemed like overkill when the announcers talked about Phil.  I suppose they wanted an American to win, but that's the way the ball bounced.

When Charles & Sandy come we'll eat here.  Barb find it hard to work on her hair & wouldn't care to eat out.  Will have steaks, pot. salad, green beans, salad, rolls & a strawberry dessert.  Barb said she should be able to cook the steaks.

First Day of Summer & I've been busy.  In addition to 4 loads of laundry, (Dale turned his mattress & put the mat. pad in the wash) I made Dale's bed & cleaned the bathroom.  Made the batter of a sugar cooky & baked them after lunch.  Cleaned di the dishes, etc.  Sampled the cookies with a cup of coffee.  Then I washed the kitchen floor.  Why the extra activity? Barb isn't feeling up to snuff & has a hard time fixing her hair so she didn't want to eat out.  I called Kim today & forgot to wish her Happy Birthday.  she tho't it would be too much for me but I told her I have the menu (I'm repeating myself) all planned.  Steak, pot. salad, green beans, veggies for salad, rolls (I have to make them), strawberry shortcake for supper dessert.  They didn't know when Charles will be in.  I said send them over & we can sit (hopefully) on the porch & talk & have lemonade & cookies.  That's why I had more jobs today.

Tomorrow we'll get groceries & I'll make dinner rolls.

Wed A.M., I'll get everything all ready so I can visit with them.  We won't eat til 7 p.m. to give Lar an extra hour to work.  He's getting behind in his after work jobs.  Weather hasn't helped either.

I said to Barb I'll have an easy to fix supper.  She said order pizza & make salads.  Good idea.  That is what I'll do -- order pizza.

We didn't eat til about 6:15 & I cleaned up.  I can't seem to make the right choc. chip cooky. Think I found the right one & made a batch of C.C. cookies.  They taste good to me so I hope it's the right one.  I'm soon ready for bed that will watch Cleveland vs. Chicago White Sox for awhile.

Tues. June 22

Got dinner rolls made & went to the Mall & Quality Mkt.   Got strawberries at Hatch Patch. They are so good.  Joyce O'Connor called this A.M. & asked if Barb would need a ride to the hosp.  I said Kim would help.  She said be sure to call if we needed help.  Bev's son's wife had a son last Oct U& Barb's daughter Melissa had a son Dec. 23.  Both are growing fat.  So Joyce is a great grandmother.

Thurs the 24th

Charles told Lar they'd be here the 23rd or 24th but settled on the 23rd.  We waited & waited -- no call, no Charles.  We had our dinner & Kim's birthday.  At 8:15 I got a call from Lar. Charles had called & would be here around noon.  They'd go out for lunch.  But I had already sprayed the oven & racks & I can't stop now.  So I said I'd skip lunch & they'll come over this aft.  What a mix up.

For Kim's birthday, I got her a box of golf balls & cash to equal 50.00  She said I'm not your daughter so you shouldn't give me as much.  I said my daughters-in-law get the same as my children.  I consider both Kim & JoAnna as daughters & love all of your equally.  Kim said she'd get a new golf glove.  She doesn't eat dessert so I fixed a few strawberries in a small bowl & put a candle in one so she had a candle to blow out.

I sprayed the oven & racks at 89 A.M. so it is almost time to get going.

Charles, Sandy & Lar came over about 3:15 p.m. & we had a nice visit.  Sandy loved our porch.  I think Charles has mellowed a lot.  Maybe Sandy is good for him.  I'm glad we had a chance to visit with them.  Lar can work this aft.  Char. & S. left to start on their way home. Want to be home Sat. nite.  Saw pictures of their home & grandchildren -- 2 boys.

Monday, July 21, 2003

I didn't start a letter yesterday because I was reading.  Vegas Rich was the book I read on Sat. finishing it at 12 A.M.  It was so good.  On Sun. I started Vegas Heat & finished it this A.M.  A trilogy so the next book I get will be Vegas Sunrise.  Ten I'll look for a 4 series set Rich Rich, Texas Heat, Texas Fury & Texas Sunrise.

Sat. nite Lar & Kim, Betsy Moran & her husband & Kathy & her husband who now live in Erie, drove their sports cars to Bemus Point for dinner.  At 4 pm, Kim bro't Torey over to stay with us, & picked him up at 9:30 P.M.  He missed them & goes to the door tot look for them but he is good.

Today we're having thunder showers & the same for Tues. & Wed.

This year we'll be getting blueberries from our bush.  Dale got nets to cover them & Barb picked a few today.  Hatch Patch had corn last week & we got some but they were small ears with not much taste. I think they were picked too soon.  We'll try again for Thurs. when I plan to have hamburgers.  Probably potato salad & Barb wants macaroni.  A picnic meal.

Yesterday was the last Sun. for the interim pastor.  We'll have visiting pastors in Aug. & maybe a new pastor in Sept.

Tues. A.M.

We had about 3 1/2" of rain Mon.  Of course, the basement is puddled.  I tried to wipe up & Dale finished the job.  This A.M. I saw water in the other side so I swept it toward the drain & put the fan over there to hep dry it out.  This is Dale's long day so I try to hep him a bit. Yesterday I tried mopping it up & got 2 buckets of water.  Franklin had 6-8" of rain.  Our streets downtown were filled with water for awhile.  Mt. Jewett had winds of 80 mph & part of the Kinzua Bridge came down.  It is closed as they were working to restore it.  Wonder what happens now with tight funds.

4 men, including Mr. Bonace, tried to stop work on the Court House -- they have been updating it & they sued the Commissioners to stop work & they lost the case.  I'm happy it went against them. They are always trying to stop progress.  They are also against the new grade school.  Another group is suing the school board.  If you can't get your way, sue.  That happens too much!!!

Tues. the 22nd

More rain -- more water in the basement.  The TV showed that the middle of the Kinzua Bridge came down -- only the ends are left.

WOW!  The Mets beat the Phillies last nite AND this aft.  Last nite with a young pitcher -- 1st win & this aft. Trachsel beat Millwood.

Golf was exciting last Sun. when a rookie won.  Ben Curtis.  He's a happy guy.

Today's USA has an interesting story of a young hockey player Jordan Tootoo who lives in Rankin Inlet, Nunavit just below the Arctic Circle.  Only way in by boat or airplane.  An Inuit. Very interesting.

I'm enclosing some pictures Barb took about the flowers, etc.

We're seeing sunshine at times.  This is the weekend at the lake.  Have a good time, rather I know you had a good time.  I forgot to ask you  to ask about Ruth.  Is she at the same address, etc.  I know I waited too long.

Time for my soaps!

Tuesday, July 16, 2002

I'm sitting on the front porch & decided I'd better start a letter.

Yesterday was a busy day.  Got my usual Mon. jobs accomplished & got a perm at 11 AM.  I really needed one -- long & not much curl.  What a relief to have curl again.  In the aft. we went grocery hopping.  Got it out of the way.;  Barb works for Lynn. Tues. Wed & Thurs aft so it's after 4 before we can go grocery shopping.

Imagine you are a little relieved your big party is in the past.

Your Wed. family outing sounded very interesting.

I tried an author new to me.  Karen Robards.  It took me a few pages to want to continue but I really enjoyed it.  Another author I plan to check out is Judith McNaught.  Robard's books have a southern flavor.  I'll get more of her books.

Paul, don't you know the grass is always greener on the other side of the street in reference to Middleton vs. Cross Plains.

Kim comes home today.  We'll hear about her trip on Thurs.  I know she played golf a couple of times & they would visit her twin aunts who live close to her sister.

Torey won't be happy this weekend as Kim & Larry will leave on Sat & stay overnite, coming home sun nite.  With Betsy Moran & her husband, whose name I can never remember, they will drive their Miata to Corning, N.Y. & stay overnite there.  Betsy's husband had to heave a Miata convertible after he saw Larry's.  His is navy blue.  It should be a fun time for them.

Last nite Dale went out on Sam B's boat at the Dam. They swam & had a good time.

Twice today the same people looked at Carey's house.  It is taking a long time to sell. Don't know if they have come down on the price.

I mentioned Bert's relative, 10 yr. old Courtney, was here for dinner.  She seemed to enjoy herself.  She is very talkative & can be funny.  It was nice.  She ate everything on her plate.  After miniature golf they got ice cream.  Both Bert & Courtney's mother like to drink & it doesn't take many drinks to affect them.

I got nowhere with USA's puzzle today.  It was harder than usual.

I can't believe it -- the Mets are playing winning ball.  Bo Vaughn & Jeromy Bernitz are hitting finally.  Maybe they can climb the ladder a bit.

Wed. nite

Dale is reading the book on NASCAR you gave him for his birthday & finding it very interesting.

It's a hot day -- AC is on -- & when I finished the dishes I watered the flowers in pots & the rose bushes.  They are blooming.  Lar doesn't think the soil is that good for roses.  We'll see. He planted roses for Careys & they are going good.

Barb saw that Hatch Patch had corn & bo't some & it is delicious.  We're lucky to have Hatch Patch.

Dale is home shortly after 4 pm & gets into shorts & sits in the yard & reads.  It's good to relax.  He had a headache yesterday.

Gen hasn't called so I called her last nite.  She said Ed is better & looks better.  Her impressions are different from Millie's.  he told me she is tired all the time.  I asked her if she's seen the Dr.  She told me she has her checkup in Aug.  It is hard to know what is going on when I'm in Pa.  Luckily Edith is a good sister in law & helps Gen.

We're hoping for rain tomorrow -- Thurs -- as it is in the forecast.  The lawns are so brown & the soil is cracking in places.  Barb keeps the veggies watered.  I saw a recipe for zucchini bread that calls for only 1 c. sugar & I want to try it.  They & the cucumber are ready to pick & we've enjoyed them.  We have green tomatoes on the vine.

Fri.  I'll get this finished.  Kim enjoyed her tip but was glad to be home. Tonite Lar & Kim are attending one of the plays at the Library Theater.

Monday, June 24, 2002

Barb just left for a bike ride before work.  And it's warm.  The AC was on yesterday but not during the nite.  Will turn it on soon.  Have a load of wash going & Dale's bed has clean sheets.  It is too humid to do a lot -- at least for me!

The strawberries from Hatch Patch are so good.  3.00 a full qt.  They haven't allowed the public to pick yet.  Barb plans to.  I want to make a batch of jam.

Barb had her eyes examined after 4 yrs.  She got 2 pairs of the new prescription & one is bifocal.  When she knits & watches TV she needs the bifocals.  She also has the old pair darkened for sun glasses.

At work Sam B. has a fan & he told Dale "with all your money, you could buy a fan".  Yesterday Dale went out & bo't one.  Paid 30.00 for a standing fan.  Dale doesn't drink, doesn't smoke, doesn't go out so he's saving his money.  Living at home helps.  He is in for a shock when he lives on his own.

Rain & storms have been forecast all week but no rain.  Suppose to rain today & I hope it does.  I hope it's true that cooler air will come in by the end of the week.

Last Sat. Barb & I were on the way to Jamestown at 8:20 A.M>  Why you ask -- to shop at Penney's sale -- Barb for tops she liked & on sale.  Me for underwear.  2 girdles I like and cotton underpants for around the house.  We were home by 11 A.M.

Dale didn't have to work last Sat. but he took the El Camino to work to check it out.  He found he needs something but it didn't register to me.  With that he'll be more satisfied with the muffler as it won't be so noisy.  He said it "drives like a dream".  He's always going to give up one of his cars but he won't.  When he drives the Monte Carlo it's perfect as well as the Blazer in the winter.  (Never can remember the names.) 

Now it's Wed. the 26th & I've been busy cleaning.  Mon. I had my blood test & Tues was the mtg. at church so they were days I didn't work.  Just have to dust downstairs but I'm resting & watching Murder She Wrote.

This week I can watch the Mets every nite, either on ESPN or the Braves channel & Fri. nite on the Mets channel.  Sometimes I wonder why I subject myself to watching the Mets.  But last nite I was happy because they won.  Hope they can win some more games this week.

We haven't had any rain yet but maybe today.  It's been great having the AC.

Barb found another 99 cent 1000 pc. puzzle so I started doing it while watching the game.  It has darker colors so will take awhile.

Got library books again & another author I've never read.  Jayne Ann Krentz & I enjoyed reading "Absolutely Positively".  She as well as Katherine Stone live in the Seattle area & their books reflect the area.  I like that.

I hear thunder so maybe it will rain.  Barb said it would rain today because last night she waxed the van.  She used a product Dale had gotten & said it was so easy to put on, wait 10 min. & then rub it off.  She was very pleased with the results.

Thurs.

We had 1/3" of rain on Wed. & more showers are called for today.  Still warm so I'm having an easy supper.  Chicken cooked on the G. Foreman grill, rice pilaf made in the micro, fruit salad, rolls & raw veggies.  And ice cream bars on a stick & their name won't come to me.  We've not had them before & they were on sale plus a 1.00 off coupon in the Sun. paper.

Doesn't seem possible July 4th is next week.

Last Sun. Kim invited Dave & Lois (their neighbors) for a cook out.  Kim felt sorry for Dave -- he'd been on vacation all week with a long list of things to do from Lois.  Dave has to get meals if he wants a meal.  Lois doesn't cook.  They played Bocce with their new set.  Usually Lois wants to leave as soon as they've eaten but stayed later this time.  Kim said sometimes she doesn't understand why Dave stays around.

Kim see things differently -- during this heat Kim just eats salads but cooks a hot meal for Larry.  She said I spoiled him so she has to continue to spoil him.  That's what I tell Kim, she continues to spoil him.  I just made meals as was the custom for me plus desserts & cookies.  Influenced by my generation

Tuesday, June 18, 2002

It has warmed up so I'm sitting on the porch.  Earlier in the day I set dinner rolls, which I refrigerated & choc. chip cookies.  After supper I baked the cookies & enjoyed one with a cup of coffee on the porch.  Tomorrow A.M. I'll bake the rolls.  Suppose to be in the 80's the end of the week. 

The people across the street, corner house, are having their late roof power washed.  They took a tree down on the north side & the roof on that side was covered with moss.  It looks so nice but it also has taken paint off the house so it will have to be painted again.

Thanks for the pictures.  I like the new cupboards & the different arrangement of the L.R.-D.R. area.
And what an improvement in the floor of Andy's room.  It looks so nice.  Would Eddie's room have the same kind of floor.

Kim enjoyed their golfing weekend but this is the last time to go there.  This year a couple of gals backed out the last minute & they had to find subs as they had to pay for them regardless.  Next year they might go closer to home -- like Peak 'n' Peek & just stay 1 nite.

When we got groceries this aft. we tried the corn on the cob -- 5/2.00.  It was pretty good.  We noticed Hatch Patch had strawberries but we didn't stop.  Probably 2.50 a qt.

The Mountain Laurel in the front of the house is in full bloom.  The first time so all of the rain must have helped.  It's pretty. 

I talked to Millie.  Ed's throat & one side are paralyzed so he can't swallow.  They had to put a tube in his stomach to feed him.  But he can talk.  John & Edith are very worried about Gen staying alone.  John disconnected something in the car so Gen can't drive & John would say he's too busy to fix it.  They are afraid of her reaction if they tell her she can't drive.  So she up & called AAA to take the car where they bot it & have it fixed.  When John heard that he told them not to touch it & tow it back.  It's tough when both of them are ailing.  I know Gen would hate to leave her home.

Yesterday I went to the dentist & he filled 1 tooth.  July 1, I go again for the tooth that broke off.

Tomorrow I go to get a blood test as I see Dr. McNett next week.  I'm taking care of myself.

I was very happy last weekend when the Mets took 2 of 3 games with the Yankees.  Doubly happy when Moe Vaughn hit a home run when his hitting has been zero.  If the team could start hitting it would be good.

I've been looking for a peanut butter brownie recipe & finally found one in one of my books.  They came out really good.  Just made a half recipe & they went too fast.

Golf was interesting last weekend.  A noisy crowd.  I was rooting for Tiger but Kim & Barb wanted Phil N. to win a major.

Wed. the 19th.  I got my dinner rolls baked & in the freezer.  Barb took me to get my blood test.  On the way home I stopped at the post office & got the new 37 cent stamps plus 3 34 cent stamps.  The new stamps start on the 30th of June.

We got the Fall-Winter Penney's catalogue so it's been fun looking thru it.  Not too much appeals to me, tho.

Wed. aft. baseball - Texas vs. the Cubs.  Beautiful day to watch a game at the park or field.  Will you get in on any of the All Star game to be played in Milwaukee?

Did Andy get his new bicycle?

Thurs. aft.  In the mail today, I got Ruth's new address & phone number.  Was glad to get it.

I'm all set for Kim's birthday dinner.  We're having steak, pot. salad, fruit salad (cantaloupe, watermelon& green grapes, all on sale this week), fresh beans, rolls & strawberry shortcake.  Barb stopped at Hatch Patch for berries.  2.00 for a very full qt.  The ladies at church said BiLo's shortcake is very good but Barb didn't see any so we have homemade shortcake.  New recipe, made in cup cake tins.  Looks good.

It's warming up but I haven't turned on the AC yet.  No humidity so far.

Did you forget I put out $50.00 for you!

Until next week love to all.

Saturday, June 16, 2001

It's been hot enough to turn on the AC.  Today the showers came & with it cooler weather.

Kim & her girl friends left Fri. for a weekend of golf in Sharon, Pa.  Sun. should be nice but I'm sure they've run into rain.

Interleague play.  It was a good game last nite but the Mets lost.  This aft. it's on Fox TV so I have the mute on & look up now & then to see what is going on .  Yankees ahead 2-0.  My "sob" story.

Guess what!  Barb was backing out of the driveway & didn't see the car parked directly across from our driveway & hit it.  Dents in both cars.  She called Erie Inc. & went for an estimate but we haven't heard yet.  I have 250.00 deductible she'll have to pay & I'm sure it will up the ins.  I didn't throw a fit 0-- what good would that do.

Bert is thinking of selling her home & going into a retirement home.  She wants Barb to take her to look around Jamestown & Chautauqua.  She's at Lynn's in the aft so Bert will have to wail til Fri.

Faye, across the st. had a floral sale this Fri. & Sat.  She makes beautiful floral arrangements.  After I had my hair done (Sheila had been there before work & told me about it) I went over.  Kim has a birthday on Thurs. & she collects bird houses, & I found a bird house decorated with ivy & a couple of birds.  Doesn't sound like much but it is very attractive.  Maybe I'll get a picture of it when she opens it.  I also got an arrangement for me.  She had some beautiful large arrangements.

Barb was talking to the neighbors Sally (ex. Conaways) & a friend told her, our house was for sale & she was interest.  Wrong house.  It's Carey's house.  Sally said she almost sold our house for us.  Interesting tho, maybe it will be easy to sell when the time comes.

Forgot to call Gen on her birthday.  Tired Thurs. nite but no answer & will try sometime this weekend.

Lar & Kim will come for dinner tomorrow.  Kim won't get home til 6 pm or so, & she won't have to think of getting a meal.

I'm watching more golf than baseball.

Later.

I fixed chicken for supper using a recipe from the latest Quick Cooking.  Brown chicken breasts on each side.  Mix 1 can chicken broc. soup with 1/4 c skim milk, 1 T. lemon juice, 1 1/2 t dried basil, lemon pepper (I just had pepper) & garlic powder - which I left out.  Mixed up recipes.  Pour over browned chicken, turn down heat, 10 min.  Served it with lemon linguine.  Poured a sauce of 3 T melted butter or oleo, 1 T lemon juice, 1 1/2 dried basil, 1/2 t. garlic powder (not for me), lemon pepper seasoning.  Toss with linguine & sprinkle 1/4 c. grated Parmesan.  I tho't it was very tasty.  Barb is making a salad & Dale will eat later.

Tomorrow I'm trying another new recipe.  Brown pork chops.  Make dressing from a 6 oz. pkg.  Grease a 9x14 pan. Pour in a can of apple pie filling with cinnamon (in the pan).  Top with porch chops.  Sprinkle stuffing over it.  Cover, bake at 350 for 30-35 min.  Remove cover & bake 10 more min.  An easier version of stuffed pork chops.

I wanted to make dinner rolls but wanted to bake them early A.M. before it got too hot.  So I decided on refrigerator rolls, chill overnite.  I made a smaller recipe, only 2 doz.  They were very good.

When we went to the mall on Fri. we noticed Hatch Patch had strawberries & I got a qt. & we'll have shortcake on Sun.  Their corn really started to grow during the hot humid weather.

Lar & Torey just stopped by.  He has to get a shower & then go to dinner at a friend's house.  Torey had to get his walk first.  So Torey got cheese, ice cream -- he was really looking for Kim.

Sun. nite, June 17

Kim had a wonderful golfing weekend.  I fixed the pork chops with apple pie filling & stuffing & it went over big.  Even Dale commented on them -- he liked it.  It smelled good while baking.

I suppose you are saying, "I suppose Mom is watching the Mets & Yankees on ESPN" and you'd be right.  They (Mets) need to get some runs from the Yankee pitcher who isn't that good but will they.  It's 1-1 now but it's only the 3rd inning.  Boston beat the Braves.  When I see that the Braves are losing, I don't feel so bad for the Mets.  Mon A.M.  I gave up too soon & missed the home run by Mike P. & the win.  What a nice surprise.  Went to bed after the 7th inning.

This is Dale's early week -- it's now 9:39 A.M. & my work is just about done.  Cleaned the bathroom today as tomorrow I see the Dr. at 11:15 A.M. & I don't want to have a lot to do tomorrow.  Am washing Dale's blankets.  One is on the line as well as his sheets & the 2nd one is being washed.

Wed. it's lunch with retired friends Bensons, Hollertzs, etc.  Ray Forstrums will pick me up.  e're going to a Pancake House beyond Port Allegheny - Portville I think it is.  Ted & Pat B. have been there.  T hurs. is Kim's birthday so it will be a busy week.  Kim doesn't eat desserts so I might make an angel food cake & have fresh strawberries for dessert.  Think we'll grill steaks & have potatoe salad. (The republican in me! Ha! Ha!)

Will bring this to an end.  Soon time for Murder She Wrote, coffee & I could dust downstairs.

I love all of you a lot!

Saturday, July 8, 2000

The Mets-Yankees aft. game isn't on TV available to us.  But tonite's game will be on ESPN2 so I'll get to watch it.  It wasn't  Hope the Mets win a game, preferably 2.

Hatch Patch has home grown corn on sale & it's on our menu tonite & strawberry shortcake.

Larry found some homes for sale up to $50,000.00 on the Internet.  One was interesting.  11 acres & a house that isn't very good for $26,000.  Off Jackson Run. Lar & Kim tried to find it as well as Dale but couldn't.  Probably away from the road.  But when Kim &, Dale also, called -- the answer?  Sold.  At least it gives Dale something to think about & a good way to invest.  And Lar is willing to help...remodeling.

Found 2 new authors:  Iris Johansen & Barbarar Delinsky & I like their books.  Fun to find new authors.

We've had a week of perfect weather but more humidity is predicted.  Have hardly used the A.C. this summer.

This is your busy week getting ready for your party.

Sounds like Eddie is doing great in baseball. Nice to be on a winning team.  And Andy is quite the pitcher.  Sounds like the teams have a lot of parent support & that is good.

We didn't get out for lunch this past week as Barb had to work every afternoon.  Next Fri aft she doesn't work so we're going to Jamestown.  I want to stop at Don Gage.  Dale stopped there & found a nice shower curtain.  More like material -- not plastic.  For the basement shower & it's really nice.  I'd like to find one for the bathroom.  And I'd like to stop at Brand Names for some glasses.  Hard to explain but they have a solution between glass sections that can be frozen & then will keep your dink cold.  It melts & can be refrozen.  A $1.00 store had them in plastic but the plastic cracked when you filled them & then leaked.  They were 1.00 ea.  Brand Names are more & come 4 to a pkg.

Mon the 10th.

It wasn't a good weekend for the Mets & their fans, but at lesat they won the last game & it was a shut out.  Full house for the Mets.

Still the showers come.  I'm hoping that next Sat. will be clear for your party.

Finished a Barb. Delinsky book this A.M. & the ending was so sad.  I couldn't help shedding a few tears.  Three Wishes.  Takes place in a small Vermont town.

Yesterday Dale went to Jamestown to look for an entertainment center for his TV & accessories.  He didn't find anything he liked so he plans to go to Erie & Oak Furniture Place.  Kim & Lar got their stools for camp there.  Dale has to wait until a free Sat. the 22nd.  They have a lot of wonderful furniture there from the ads, etc.  Kim & Lar recommend it.

Wed Kim plays in a Cancer Golf outing at the Country Club.  Friends belong & she usually plays with one of them.  She is also on a committee that sponsors a bike ride around the Dam.  Bikers come from surrounding states & they like to come because of the beauty of the area.

So your cat is a female.  At least the name is OK in today's world.  Women are now boxers!

All-star baseball game on Tues. but many of the stars are out with injuries.  Cal Ripkin will lose his attendance record.  Orel H. retired when L.A. decided they couldn't use him.  I suppose it's the ego that bro't them this far & it's hard to give up the glory.  So an injury does it.

Not much happening around here so I'll bring this to a close with love to all.

Friday, June 23, 2000

It's a beautiful day on the cool side.  Good day to do some baking but I made cookies earlier in the week.

We've had a lot of rain & Beaty Field was wet.  Tonite (all nite) until Sat. mid morning there is a cancer get together going on but not at Beaty this year due to the wet.  It was moved to the High School grounds.  Do we card?  Not a bit when a rock band was scheduled for 11 pm - 1 A.M. plus the sound system announcing various things going on.  It is very hard to get to sleep & stay asleep.  So we're happy to let some other people find it hard to sleep.  Let's hope they like the high school property better.  More parking & I think a little more secluded but sound does carry.

Sounds like Eddie is keeping up with Andy on baseball.  That is great.

I remember when Roosevelt changed the date of Thanksgiving & the grumbling that took place.  There was grumbling when Soc. Security started & I suppose there still is but a lot of people would have very little to go on unless it was forced on them.  My S.S. payment is higher than the pension.  It's best to have something you can't get at to borrow.  Usually it never gets paid back.  I remember Gen & Ed saying they'd never see a S.S. check & now they are getting it.  Grandma Nelson got a small S.S. check and she treasured it -- it was hers to spend.  I'm sure she never had any spending money.

Rhubarb is hard to come by.  I'd love to make a strawberry rhubarb pie.  We've had straw. shortcake but no straw pie yet.  We plan to go to the Mall later (Kim said she's stop by after 3) & we'll stop at Hatch Patch for berries.

Sat aft. the 24th

Dale just finished his rug & it looks so nice.  He didn't have to pay rent for it  (stretcher*) as the owner (2 years older than Dale) wanted his advice on what was wrong with his van -- it was the fuel pump & he could fix it himself once he knew what the problem was.   *The equipment to get it stretched, etc.  Dale just had to listen to the problems & knew what it was.

Sam B. stopped by to show Dale his '84 Monte Carol.  A light navy color, 2 door & very nice looking.  The owner started out wanting $8,000.00 & it didn't go.  Sam offered $5,000.00 & they took it.

Had a letter from Millie.  Gen was on the committee for their 60th anniversary get together of graduation (hi school) so she wanted a new dress & Millie went shopping with her.  Millie is very good to shop with.  Gen found a dress & a pants suit that looked good on her & Millie insisted Gen get both & she did.  I wouldn't have to be told twice to get both outfits but Gen doesn't like to shop.  Ed also insists sometimes when the go shopping.

Went to the library this A.M. & got 3 books - my limit when I walk.  I'll be glad when July is here as the library will be opened longer hours.

Barb picked 5 qts. strawberries this A.M. at Hatch Patch.  $1.05 vs. $2.75 already picked.  Delicious.  The corn is really growing.

I'm watching N.Y.Y. vs. Chicago White Sox & the Yankees are ahead.  But as of now 3 pm the W. Sox are 1/2 game ahead of Boston & N.Y.Y. in third place.  Deals are going on  - wonder who will get who or is it whom!

You can be sure I'll be watching T.V. Thurs-Sun when the Mets host the Braves.  Esp. to see how things go with Rocker, who should learn not to talk to reporters.

One of the Sheffield teachers is getting married & Kim was invited to a shower for her at a summer home at Chautauqua this afternoon.

Patterson (funeral director) left last week for a visit in Italy.  Kim is watering their plants while they are away.

Tues. the 27th.

I'm reading again.  Enjoyed The Glass Lake by Maeve Binchy.  Now I'm near the end of I Thee Wed by Amanda Quick.  That's all I want to do once I start a book so I've done just the basics in the house.  Tomorrow I plan to go to the bank to get money for next month's budget.

Kim heard from her sister.  At an exam the Dr. found that she has melanoma -- is that correct spelling -- & it's very serious.  She will be operated on July 11 & until then, not a lot is know as to the outcome -- how deep into the bone, etc. etc.  Kim will be going down to Fla. after the operation & of course her sister & family won't be coming up here, unless Kim brings the niece & nephew back & they would return by plane if Debbie would allow it.

Friday, May 5, 2000

It's been a perfect day & we've had supper so I'm on the porch.  After getting my hair done, Barb & I went to the Mall.  Bo't 2 plastic urns for plants on each side of the new railing for the steps.  After, we stopped at Hatch Patch for flowers.  They just opened for the season & the flowers look great.

In the late aft.  Barb started planting the urns.  We need to get a dish for them to set in so the water won't damage the porch floor, so in the meantime they sit one on each side of the garage doors.  I bo't the large begonias & they are so pretty & Barb put some pansies with them & a form of ivy - don't know the correct name.  Later on I'll have hanging baskets also.

Careys are expected to be home Sun. or Mon. the 7th or 8th.  Will be nice to see life around there again.

Last nite when Kim & Lar were over, Kim told us her sleep had been interrupted by Torey being sick.  Thge Crary home residents love to feed him & so does another neighbor & had loose bowels so at 2:30 A.M. she was cleaning the L.R. & D.R. rugs & then found it hard to get back to sleep.  So no more treats from the Crary Home or the neighbor.  It will be hard as Torey goes to the door to be let in & then begs.  He didn't get ice cream last nite but after begging Kim said he could have 1 cooky & then dog biscuits.  Today Sheila was telling me about ice cream for dogs.  It is called "dog paws" & her dogs loved it in hot weather.

The gal who bought Holders house walked by & we talked a bit.  Her 2nd son & wife had a new baby.  She, Pat Vavala, was married to the oldest Vavala son but is now divorced.  She is very friendly & nice to talk to.  Her mother will be 80 -- I mentioned I'd be 80 in the fall -- & her father is 82.  He has Alzheimer's.

Last nite Barb stayed up til 2:30 A.M. watching Phillies vs. Pittsburgh hockey game.  5 overtimes & when Pitts lost, Barb said it wasn't worth staying up for.  People stayed until the end -- even children who were asleep by then.  A game theh players will never forget.  Barb is afraid now that the Penguins lost their chance to win the series.

I received a wedding invitation from Barb O'Connor's daughter Melissa who graduates from Allegheny College this spring.  Wedding at First Meth. followed by a reception at Sugar Grove Fire Hall.  I don't plan to go -- don't really know Melissa or her future husband -- but will get a gift & bring it over to Joyce.

Dale brought out his Monte Carlo & put the winter car in the rented garage.  The Blazer.

Barb doesn't have to care for Scott anymore.  He's going back to the YM as that's where he'll be this summer.  Barb doesn't mind the switch.

Sat A.M., the 6th.

Dale had to work today so I was up early.   Made a coffee cake for next week snack for Dale.  Then I filled the 6 flower pots I have by the garage.  Pansies, my favorite.  They are nice to look at when I'm at the sink.  The 2 pots we put by the garage doors look so nice so we're going to get 2 more for the front porch.  They are tan & look good with the house.  Both Barb & Dale work around the yard.  Dale mows & trims & Barb has the veggie garden plus flowers.  It's nice all of you enjoy working outside & making the property look nice.  I'm back on the front porch watching the cars go by.  Dandelions are in great supply this year & we are trying to keep ahead of them.  This is the earliest we've gotten our flowers planted.  Usually it's Memorial Day weekend but the warm weather arrived earlier this year.

Sun A.M.  Again I'm ready for church by 9:40 A.M. so I'll continue on.

I had gotten a small lamb roast & we had it yesterday choosing a warm day to use the oven.  It was very tasty.  Your Seder service sounded very interesting.  It makes me want to read Haggadah.

Tonite we'll just have hamburgers.

I'm enclosing two articles you might like to read.

The Mets lost last nite & today in the 1st inning Fla Marlins are ahead, 1-0, 2 on & no outs.  The Braves lost & the Mets couldn't gain on them.  After 1, it's only 1-0.

A couple of years ago we got a new grill but it was a cheap one.  Suppose to be automatic "on" but it went on the blink & we had to light it by hand.  We use the grill a lot so Dale is looking around.  Saw one at Don Gages, on the way to Jamestown, but ti was sold but more are expected.  Maybe we'll have one before Thurs. Lar's birthday as she chose steak for the menu & either carrot cake or spice cake. Think I'll make spice cake for a change.

In church today the choir anthem was given by Carol Andersen in honor of Pastor & Mrs. Carl Nelson.  First sung by the choir Apr. 14, 1996.  People are invited to pay for choir music in honor or in memory of someone.  Several have been given & I think I might do that in Dad's memory.  The anthem was "Hymn of Promise" -- nice words & very pretty.

When I lost weight, I had to get a smaller size.  My thyroid must be OK as I'm soon back to my weight so I can't wear some of last year's clothes.  Need to get a blood test this week for a check on the thyroid.

Mon. the 8th.

I cleaned the eating area today plus my regular washing & changing of 2 beds.

It's 3:45 pm & Barb wants to go to the Mall.  She just got back from Bert's.  I got myself cleaned up & rested a bit.