Monday, January 20, 2003

Got your letter with the pictures.  Both JoAnna's parents look so good, esp. her Dad who went thru so much almost 2 yrs ago.  Especially like your family picture as it shows how the boys are growing.  I can see that Andy will soon be "looking down" on his Dad.  It's good of everyone.

The cold keeps coming -- I'm waiting for a Jan. thaw.  Maybe it will be in Feb.

Yesterday St. Paul had its annual meeting & all went well.  A German pastor & pastor wife were looking for a call while waiting for their green card.  They were willing to come to Warren & one of them going to Sheffield-Ludlow vacancy.  It was fine until they said they would want the 3 churches to become 1 parish.  That wouldn't work.  They can't even get Sheffield & Ludlow to combine even tho Ludlow members are very few.  No prospects in the future.

Did I mention I made a new cooky -- Surprise Brownie cooky (marshmallow surprise).  Barb brot some for Scott & Marisa only Scott ate Marisa's as well as his own.  He asked Barb for the recipe -- ti's his favorite now, & Barb just laughed as Lynn never bakes.  At least they know what homemade cookies are.  Dale doesn't like the marsh. addition so I baked a few less the marsh. & just a little frosting on his.  He likes iced brownies so he should like these.  He's getting them for his aft. treat!Yesterday I was disappointed the Phila Eagles didn't win but happy when Oakland won.  I'll be rooting for Oakland -- why -- I like the looks of their coach.  Looks like he'd be a nice man. I also think Gruden is nice but for some reason I like Oakland.  Good deductions for a winner-- yes!

Better check the dryer so I can put the flannel sheets back on Dale's bed.

What do you hear about Ruth.  Is she at the same place?  I haven't heard anything at all.

Forgot to mention concerning the annual met.  John Check kept his membership -- resigned because of personal reasons.  I wondered about the family.  The daughter was in the council for 1 year & she agreed to a new 4 year term & Jen & her mom were both at the mtg.  And Jen was active in starting a Young Mother's Club at church.  So that is a good sign as I see it.  We heard that Gary's salary, housing allowance, ins. retirement etc. amounted to $74,000.  And he wasn't satisfied.  Wonder if he ever had regrets over his resignation.  The amt. came up when some wondered how we could pay a pastor's salary & Marv Gustafson mentioned the salary & that we would probably pay a lesser wage due to his or her time in the ministry.  Maybe someone with 5 yrs experience.  That would be $50,000 plus a loan for a down payment on a home.  They started that when we were able to buy the parsonage.  I'm so glad Dad isn't here to see what happened at Church.  He'd be so disappointed.

Wed. Jan 22

We didn't go to the Mall or get groceries until yesterday.  First we went to the Mall & I found a nice bargain at Bon Ton -- a Liz Clairborn blouse for $19.99.  It had been $45.00.  It is cotton, pretty blue print with a ruffle front, shirt style & cuff. Hard to explain.  I'd had my eye on it & when it hit 20.00 I got it.  Hope ruffle fronts last awhile.

For a couple of weeks Barb couldn't find her glasses.  She looked all over.  I asked if she had looked between the cushions.  Yesterday while dusting the L.R. I remembered to look between the davenport cushions & there they were.  When I presented them to her, she said she never tho't to look there.  Often when she comes downstairs she sits on the davenport &we talk or watch TV together for awhile.  She must have taken them off & they slipped down.  Lost is found.

Back to the cooky -- gave 2 for Dale's aft. snack & later asked how he liked them.  He said he could have eaten 3 of them. So now I'll make 1 regular batch & one minus the marshmallows.  That's what parents do for their children (waffles vs. pancakes) even when one is 82 & still cosseting her children. Or should I say pampering?

Thurs. the 23rd

I bundled up when I put the garbage out this A.M.  And I still brave the cold basement to shower.  With the heater it warms the area up as well as the water steam. Not bad at all.

Yesterday Dale mentioned a fellow at work his age (45) pays for an under 18 child as a result of divorce.  He married again & she is 22 & wants 4 children.  Dale can't believe he'd want to start a family again.  Maybe after a baby or two, she'll change her mind.  Dale can't believe it.  If Dale ever marries, it will be because some one chased him & won't let him slip by.

Made a different dessert for dinner.  You cube angel food cake.  Put it in a sq pan.  Make a vanilla pudding (Jello) add 2 c. ice cream.  Mix & pour over cake.  Make strawberry jello, add frozen straw., pour over.  Let set.  It is easy & tasty.  Looks nice.

Lynn is sick today so Barb won't have to work this aft.  She'll work Fri. aft. instead.  Maybe I'll get ambitious & make banana bread & cookies Fri. aft.  I slow down the end of the week.

Called Rose yesterday.  She said Karen & her husband will be moving to New Hampshire.  It must be a different guy as she went to a vocational school.  Now they are living with her mother-in-law.  I can't imagine Karen accepting that.  I hate to be too nosy -- didn't ask if Karen is still working.  Mother-in-law speaks only French so Karen is brushing up on her high school French.  The divorce still upsets Rose.  She said who would want to be married 4 times.  The other thing that bothers is the Pres. Bush.  She has no use for him & what he is doing.  I keep away from politics.  Each to his own.

Monday, December 1, 2002

This is Dale's early week so I have most of my Monday duties accomplished 

Yesterday Pastor Nancy Schwanke preached again.  She is so nice _ preaches good sermons.  It was a slim attendance because of the snowfall & this afternoon more snow is coming.  Tonite is LCW's Christmas meeting with a planned menu.  I'm bringing the strawberry-salad with a pretzel crust, cream cheese filing & topped with jello with strawberries.  It makes a larger recipe.  Janice Carlson will pick me up.  She also gets Evelyn Berglund who lives at the Warren Apartments.

KMart advertised electronic toys & I looked at them bu didn't get one as I didn't think there was any a 10 yr. old boy would like.  I did notice, in passing, one for playing solitaire but didn't give it a thought. Later on at home I tho't how nice it would be to have one to play when I'm in my chair watching TV.  We went to the Mall last Friday & I got myself a new toy.  It is more fun but very hard to win a game.  I've only won 2 games.  Barb likes it & uses it when I'm busy doing other things.  She plans to get herself one.  [She got herself one.]

I have an idea for me for a gift.  A sweater vest size L that buttons or zips.  To go with navy or black pants.  Plain or otherwise -- some have striped fronts.  Plain in a lighter color or even a red one.  So you have an idea now.

I'll be thinking of you on the 17th when you have that breakfast meeting.  That you'll make a good impression, but then why shouldn't you.  Dad made good impressions when he met with church councils in Great Falls & Warren & when he was leaving or retiring all 3 congregations were sorry to see him go.  Whatever happens all will work out for the best, you can be sure.

 Wednesday.  It is cold weather with snow.  This A.M. I got a ride with Barb as I had to go to CVS for 2 prescription refills.  Walked home & had worn an extra sweater which I didn't need.

That spoiled my day as I lost my ambition.  But I did make & rolled out a single crust for a banana cream pie for Thurs.  We had brats & sauerkraut for supper & they are good tasting.  I told Dale there is an extra one if he wants it.  He said no -- he weighed himself & weighs 180 lbs on our scale.  Says he's getting fat!

Called Rose this aft.  Found out Karen married "her man" in Canada.  Kerstin goes to college in Toronto & plans to stay in Canada.  She has a Chinese boyfriend.  Rose has met him & said he's nice.  The woman Rick is going with works at the hospital, is divorced & has 2 sons.

Rose spent Thanksgiving with Jim & family.  Jim's youngest daughter Beth is thinking of the ministry when she finishes college.  I think she is a soph. at Pitt.

Today I got a new magazine Bon Appetit -- hope that is spelled correctly.  Barb has the magazine upstairs.

Last Sat. I made banana streusel coffee cake & I noticed a recipe in "B.A." for one.  Similar but for the streusel my recipe mixed the brown sugar mixture with melted butter.  The new recipe doesn't add any liquid & I like the dry mixture better.  That is what I use on my regular coffee cake recipe.  Thank you very much for the magazine.  It's fun to study recipes.

Yesterday I got Christmas cards addressed, stamped.  Now comes the notes.  I plan to do some baking for the cooky walk at church so it will be the weekend before I think of them.  Already started to get Christmas cards.

There is enough snow so last Sun. Lar, Kim, Friends & dogs went skiing & enjoyed it.

Thurs. aft.  I've had a busy A.M.  Made the banana cream pie & then decided since Dale wouldn't be home for lunch (mtg. at work) I made 2 batches of cookies.  Shortbread formed into rolls & the ends dipped in melted chocolate after baking.  Then I made the choc. cookies with Andes mint icing.  Barb suggested I freeze some so she could have some for a cooky tray for Lynn & family.  I just keep a few to eat as I don't want too many around (to eat).  Dale doesn't care for them & Barb likes just a couple.  Guess who'll be making the Christmas cookies for the tray!  I'm trying a new chicken recipe tonite.  It calls for 2 frozen packages of spinach souffle, rice, milk, Swiss cheese, onion, seasonings.  Mixed together & put in the 13x9 dish & topped with the browned chicken.  Sounds good & I hope it will be.

Hope you can read & understand this letter.

Saturday, March 9, 2002

I'll start a letter as I have ideas (for a letter).   Yesterday after getting my hair done, I picked up stamps at the P.O.  Barb had mentioned how nice the library is, so I decided to look for myself.  The adult area is just about finished & it looks so nice.  A new return & check out area.  You'll have to stop in & get a look for yourselves.  The children's area is now being fixed up.  I didn't hear of any fund raisers so maybe some people left the library funds for the project.  I have to get used to the new area & books.  I usually knew where to look.  Of course they are in alphabetical order but it's still new.  I got 1 book & I knew what would happen -- constant reading.  Started in at home, when we drove to Jamestown, when we got home & I couldn't read anymore -- bedtime.  Finished it this A.M.  The Switch by Sandra Brown.  It was fun to be reading again.  I put the puzzle away unfinished.  Got tired of looking at it & getting nowhere.  I'll save it for next fall.  Book was great.

It was a nice drive because the weather was so nice -- in the 60s.  We went to Davidson's for fish & it was just as good as I remembered.

When Kim was at BiLo's she met a friend & they talked.  The friend talked about her son & his friend Evan & their love of the computer.  Kim asked if she meant Evan Setili & that started the mother talking.  What Evan told her son about Karen.  The guy Karen is with is into drugs & beats Karen up.  She told this to Rick when she was here to sign divorce papers.  Karen wants Evan with her but Rick told him the situation & doesn't want him with Karen.  Like I said Evan is into computers & Rick bot him a new one.  Probably to bribe him & keep him here.  He & Karen are very close.  I can't understand what has gotten into Karen. Rick is a great guy.

Enjoyed your letter.  That was something concerning the Sun Prairie Library situation.  Bet the gov's face was red when he made that "gaff".  Enjoyed "The Bookworm".

Saw a robin this A.M.

Sun the 10th

Today the pastor was the chaplain at the Luth. Home in Kane.  He is very good.  It is nice to hear different approaches in sermons.  I always read the lessons at home & wonder how they'll use the Gospel in their sermons.

When I see articles on libraries I think of you.  Buff. paper has one today I'll enclose for you to read.  When walking to church, I was glad I didn't have to cross the bridge.  It was & is a cold, blowing day.

Too bad you aren't eating lunch.  I thought we might go over town for lunch -- can't remember the name but it's on 2nd Ave.  They say their pies are the best!  Barb thinks it's too smoky as there is no division & not that large.  There is also a new coffee shop in the same area.  Kim likes it.  Patty Welsh Phillips' son Chipper & his wife started it.

Mon A.M.  I'll bring this to a close & maybe get ambition & mail it at 5th Av. mail box.  Barb & Kim don't agree with your thoughts about "M.J."  Love to all & see you soon.

Saturday, February 2, 2002

Our get together yesterday was very nice.  Forstrums couldn't come as they both had colds.  Ray didn't sound too good when he called.  We were 6 & enjoyed being together.  The meal was good even if I do say so myself.  Since there were 2 pieces of chicken left plus potatoes & veggies Barb & Dale had leftovers.  It was an easy menu, as much could be done the day before.  The last minute I decided to make bread pudding as both Ted & Warren like it & so do I.  Have some left over & I warm it up & enjoy it.

Warren & Anna like your "Swedish" powder room.  I showed them the pictures you sent.

I really like the rug under the D.R. table.  It is so attractive.  Also like the dishes & place mats.  I love dishes & your new ones are so pretty.

Nice picture of Andy -- a really nice smile.  His teeth look so nice.

Barb helped me with the hard, floral puzzle & we finished it.  Now I'm working on another one.  The puzzle Eddie got, looks like a hard one with all the flowers & greens.  I keep puzzles to do again & put all the outside pieces in a sandwich bag so I don't have to hunt for them again.

I never thought much about Martin Luther King day but after reading your thoughts, & thinking about it, I do have to agree with your way of thinking.  It's just a lot of lip service.  Sharpton was on Fox -- he did a lot of talking (noise) but didn't say much.  Couldn't back up his arguments.  Mostly they say what they think people want to hear.  He was talking about Enron.

Talked to Rose this past week & Karen was home to sign divorce papers & will return to Canada.  If it's a guy, he must be pretty special to take her away from her mom.  Rick had a chance for a good move out of Warren, but at that time Karen't couldn't leave Rose.  Now she's getting over 2 operations in a short time (back & bypass) & she can leave her when Rose really would like her here.

Dale was in Rochester Thurs for schooling.  The ice was really bad there, but they got home safe & sound.  Think I mentioned they left Wed. & would eat dinner there.  It turned out they went to Wendy's.  Maybe the other fellow didn't want to spend a lot of money for a meal.

Buffalo really had it bad again on Fri.  Heavy winds toppling trees, wires down, basements flooded & the stores running out of sump pumps & generators to run them, if the electricity was out.  Waves really pounding against the shores.  I watch the NBC Buff. channel.  I like their people best.

If Beloit is in sad shape, Charles can't expect to get much for selling the house.  It will run down more by the time they get to cleaning it out.  Maybe some black family will buy it.  Think Ruth said a lot of blacks were moving into that area.  I know Swanson's sold to a black family in Chicago.

Don't know if you've received the paper telling of the death of Mrs. Reinhard (husband a Dr. at State Hosp.)  Think JoAnna met one of their sons.  I'm sure I remember talking about that.

I envy you when you talk about going to Pier 1, Target, etc.  In contract, Warren has so little & Jamestown isn't much better.

We had a touch of snow on the ground this A.M.  The sun goes in & out & it continues to be colder than the warm temps of the past week.  But it is Feb & we really haven't had much winter.  We have had close to 2" of rain & it soaks in when the ground isn't frozen  1/8" of rain!  Not close.

Mon. Feb 4 - We awoke to 2 snow covered cars sitting in the driveway.  After getting the Sun. apper, Barb neglected to put it away.  Th is is the 2nd time.  I thought after the last time, when it was colder & she had to brush it off, she wouldn't do it again.  Sun. aft I tho't to remind her but that was in the midst of the Super Bowl game.  And what a game.  I was watching Murder She Wrote on A&E but I changed to Fox in the 3rd period & was happy to see N.E. was ahead.  So I watched to the last second field goal & was very happy N.E. won.  What a rookie QB.

I read the news article quoting Paul Nelson on the effects of the budget cuts on libraries.  My son makes me proud!  A thinker like his father.

At 6:30 A.M. the temp was 27 but it will fall during the day so I'll make soup (veg. beef) & apple pie for supper.

Guess a lot of people got Geo. Foreman grills for Christmas.  Both Bensons & Hollertzs did.  Anna H. said one of their daughters was on their 2nd one.

Knock on wood, but none of us have been sick or had a cold so far & I hope the "bugs" stay away.

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.

Saturday, February 3, 2001

We have more snow -- up to 3", I think. Enough to have to shovel.

This aft. Dale went to Jamestown.  I asked him if he was going to Sam's Club and if he did would he get me pecans & toilet tissue.  The pecans are 7.29 for 2 lbs & around 12.00 for 30 rolls of .T. T. -- the good brand that is soft.

Yesterday Kim was at school til after 10 pm.  Reason:  school dance from 7-10 pm.  After school they had to decorate & foolish to drive home & have to turn around practically right away.  After 10 pm they'd have to clean up decorations, etc. & she hoped to be home by 11 pm.  She didn't come over today.  I'm sure they went skiing with the new cover of snow.

Fri nite Lar & Mike went out to eat.  Then Lar walked Torey with Torey leading the way.  They went to Jackson, over Buchanan & Lar decided to shovel Cary's walk.  I heard Torey barking & called to him & in he came.  Lar came when he finished.  Torey got fed & then he settled down.  I was working on my puzzle -- it's a hard one but the end is in sight -- & Lar sat down & watched TV.  Torey wasn't in any hurry to leave so Lar stayed awhile.

Barb & I went to the mall late morning.  Went to Penney's & everything is 25% off & I found a spring jacket I like so I bo't it.

I'm proud of Andy doing so well in his studies.  Isn't it nice to have a son who applies himself to his studies, Paul!!!  I remember someone who could have but didn't, but you still turned out to be a good guy & I'm proud of you.  You certainly are doing well in your career.

I'm watching the All Star Hockey doings tonite.  Sun. is the All Star Game.  It's fun to watch & see the All Stars introduced.  Skill competition tonite.

Dale & I had hamburgers for supper -- Barb made herself a steak salad.

Finally, I finished my puzzle with 2 pieces missing.  [Found 1 on the floor.]  An old puzzle as we save them -- when I vacuumed on Wed. I heard one eaten up by the vacuum cleaner & I thought I had checked thoroly.

Back to hockey -- North American All Stars vs. the World All Stars.  N. Amer. All Stars won the skill contest.

Sun. Feb 4th

In church today the Bishop's assistant preached & it was nice to hear a good sermon and one using the text for the day.

After church I was talking to Patty Welsh Phillips & she said she is now retired.  Her husband has been retired for 2 years & they have plans to travel, etc., so she left her job.  She was secretary to a lawyer.  She isn't that much older than you is she, Paul?  I know she isn't ready for Soc. Security.

Today I watched the Hockey All Star game & it was so good.  The N. Americans beat the World All Stars.  I think the score was 14-11 & that is a big score.  I didn't watch the football All Stars and I saw the end of the golf.  Tiger Woods hasn't done too well so  far.

Your telephone call gave me something to think about pro & con.  No answers for while.  It's a long trip.

Started reading again -- got 2 books at the library last Fri.  Our governor is giving more money -- statewide -- to the libraries.

Karen S. Setili's son is very different.  Very smart in studies.  I feel sorry for him -- he has been too much of a mama's boy.  The daughter who is in her first year of college, is different but no like Evan.

One of Dale's friend's mother died a year ago & the father died this last week.  He was 65 & his wife was in the early 60's.  He had sugar.  Tough to lose both parents in a years time.  The grandmother was a member of St. Paul & she lived to an old age.  After her husband died she came back to Warren so I don't think you knew her Paul,  She was Helen Leonard.

Tues A.M.  Want to get this mailed -- it's grocery day.

[enclosure]

Sunday, October 29, 2000

It's your birthday, Paul -- wish we were closer to help you celebrate.

Arlene H. was in church today.  John brought her home for the weekend.  John said he doesn't remember too many people anymore but he said I look the same so he knows me.  She mentioned the church Julie's family go to has a black pastor & Arlene likes him a lot.

Talked to Rose this week.  Think I wrote Karen had surgery.  Well Kim saw Karen's close friend & it was plastic surgery -- on stomach, arms & what else I don't know.  They took another mortgage on the house to pay for it.  Insurance wouldn't.  Reminds me of the song "Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets."  Substitute Karen's name.

The torn up lawn is now seeded &^ the edges filled in & seeded, thanks to Larry.  It was so nice to see the 2 cars parked side by side in front of the garage doors.  2 more projects -- new sidewalk & roof.  Time will tell when they get done.  Altho next spring they want to put a brick walk in front of the garage to the back door.  Now the bricks are a little higher & they want it level.  Plenty of brick left for the project.

Should write to Ruth but seeing there is only a little over 3 weeks til Thanksgiving, I'll look for Thanksgiving cards & write then.

Sent an order to L. L. Bean yesterday.  There was a sweater, at a price I could afford, Barb wanted.  But it was sold out.  Lar saw a couple of flannel shirts he liked so some more shopping of gifts was accomplished.  Got my Christmas Club check on Fri. & will cash it tomorrow.  Have to go to PNC bank to get money for monthly expenses.  Christmas Club check comes from Northwest.  $500.00.  Kim got hers also.

I made out a preparation plan for Thanksgiving.  Look for dust in corners -- make sure I know where my recipes are, cookies made, grocery list, etc.  I need it in front of me or I'm apt to forget something.

My mind's a blank so I'll stop & maybe more thoughts will come on what to write about.

You'll never guess what I just did.  I'd gotten Christmas wrap on sale after Christmas so I wrapped the gifts I have for Paul & JoAnna.  Wanted to get them out of my room so I can straighten it up a bit.

Buff. & N.Y. J's are tied 20-20 & Buff has the ball with 1 min. to go.  Barb is at Johanson's & she must be on needles & pins. The Bills win 23-20.

Now I switched to golf.  Tiger is playing & that always makes it more interesting.

Last nite I made chicken & spaghetti but Barb didn't stay for dinner so Dale had her share for lunch.  So I'll be lazy & order pizza for Dale & me.  Dale went to the mall at Lakewood this aft.

Almost forgot.  Dale got a ceiling fan, 1/2 price, at KMart for the garage to move the warm air around.  He has another better kerosene stove that really heats the garage up.  Pretty complete now, with heat, fan & TV.

Kim had a busy weekend a week ago helping others & not leaving enough time for herself.  So when she came over yesterday I was surprised.  Fri. Lar said "there is nothing to snack on".  So Sat. A.M. Kim got up early to make cookies.  When she was getting an egg out of the fridge it slipped out of her hand.  Trying for another, it also slipped out of her hand, so she had a mess to clean up.  That didn't make her very happy.  Lar stopped by as he was going to rake leaves at Carey's.  So he had a couple of cookies.  I'll be making more of the peanut butter, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies as Dale likes them. They are easy to make.

Sheila & Sue (beauty shop gals) don't work on Halloween but dress up & visit around.  They know a teacher at Jefferson so they are in the neighborhood and stop in to see me.  Plan to make cookies & give them each a bag.  They'll dress up as Cheetas -- wear black jeans & jacket.  The masks got 50.00 & they stick to the face.  Went to Fredonia to get them.  They also wear wigs.  They have fun & look good in their costumes.

I see Green Bay was defeated.  Pittsburgh won so Dale will be happy.

Careys are in Fla. for 2 weeks.  They found someone to stay with the dogs.

Tues. Oct. 30.

I'm glad to sit down -- it's been a busy day for me.  Up at 6 am.  After breakfast & reading the paper, I went upstairs & took care of my room.  On Mon. I change Dale's sheets.  Did my washing, made my cooky dough & put it in the fridge.  About 9:15, I walked to the post office for stamps, to PNC Bank to cash my check for Nov. exp.  Then went across the st. & cashed my Christmas Club check.  We've been talking that I should get a C.D. and I asked about it at the bank (Northwest) & put $10,000.00 into a 14 mo. cert. of deposit at PNC.  It is one dad started with $10,000.00 when he was well.  Overheard Mr. Gustafson tell someone C.D.s were the best way for older people.  That spurred me on to do something.  Should make use of my money.  The int will go into the C.D.  Dad had the int. go into his checking account.  The pension & S.S. take care of current expenses.  What is in the checking account is for taxes & any improvements.  I guess one could say I'm doing OK.

Also dusted downstairs, an easy job.  Baked & frosted the cookies.  Fixed supper, cleaned up & now I'm resting & watching TV.  TLC "Code Blue". So I've had a full day for me.

Enjoyed talking with Paul & the boys on Sun.  Eddie made me smile when I asked him if his homework was finished.  He told me he didn't like personal questions!  I'm still smiling.  Am anxious to see Andy again & how he has grown.  Great to have 2 wonderful grandsons.  See you soon.

Tuesday, March 21, 2000

Yesterday I saw Dr. Keverline & got a prescription for glasses.  Left eye OK.  A change in the right eye.  I went to Wrrn.  Vision, over town, for new glasses & got new frames as well.  I don't see Dr. K. for a year.

Today I saw Dr. McNett & all is well except that I gained 5 lbs. in 6 weeks.  I'll have to be good about walking & cutting out sweets.  That will be a tough job.  My thyroid is OK.  Have to have a blood test in 6 weeks, but I don't see the Dr. for 4 months.  He put on the paper that it is a standing order as I'll have to have blood tests from time to time.  Saw 2 gals that I used to work with.  One was 88 yesterday, Martha Mahood, & she has had heart surgery.  Then Sara Lyle, who was there for her 6 mo. check up.  We got caught up on our children, etc. while we waited & talked. 

When I got home I decided to call Rose & tell her about Martha.  We talked for about 1/2 hr.  Next Tues. she goes to Erie to see the Dr. about her back. She never wanted surgery but Karen has been pushing & Rose hurts so much she's ready for an operation.  She doesn't get to church as it hurts to walk.  I'[m so glad Rose is doing this.  She'll know next Tues. the 28th about what will happen.  I'm daughter graduated from Penn State in May.  The youngest starts college next fall.  Karen's daughter has been accepted at Penn State but wants to go to U. of Toronto but hasn't heard from them yet.  They spend vacation in Toronto & love i up there.  She had to take a special SAT test for Toronto.

Do you remember Mrs. Highhouse, a teacher at Beaty.  She died some time ago.  Her husband & Rose have known each other for a long time.  He called Rose & they've been seeing each other.  Out to eat, the Rotary films, etc.  Recently he fell on the ice & broke his clavicle & the tip of his back bone.  Was in the hosp. for a month.  Is home now & might have to go in a nursing home.  Rose will miss him.  Said he has been so good to her.

Called Gen last nite.  John had been on a skiing trip in Switzerland & spent a couple of days in Paris.  Bet he had a good time.  They were expecting him home that nite.

Fri. the 24th.  9 pm.

This aft. we went to the Mall & I got a pair of navy shoes at Bon Ton - on sale.  Barb wants to go to Erie next week Tues. & I plan to go with her.  If I don't feel like shopping I'll sit & watch people go by.  We're never there too long.  A couple of hours shopping & lunch.

My favorite TV programs now are "Trauma, Life in the E.R."  Mon & Tues. nite 8-10 pm.  Wed nite - can't remember the title but it's on forensics & how they solve murders.  Very interesting.  And the things they have to work with today.  It boggles the mind.  Would be an interesting career.

You most likely are in your motel by now.  Tomorrow you'll be in Pa. on the way to Gettysburg.

Last Mon. I meant to mail your letter when I went to the Dr. (eye) but I forgot them so they didn't so they didn't get mailed until Tues. so I don't know if you heard before you left.  If not, you'll have 2 letters to read.

Wed the 22nd, the called from Wrrn. Visions to say my glasses were in.  I got ready & walked over to get them.  I see much better with the right eye now.  That was fast service.

Kim took a personal day today.  They can only accumulate 5 days or they lose it.  She & a friend went to Grove City shopping area for the day.  Same place we went to last year.  The floor is almost finished.  Larry also painted the ceiling & upper walls.  Below the chair rail Lar papered.  One room will be cleaned but the rest of the house is dusty from the work, etc.  A film over everything. 

I've been thinking about Andy -- all good.  If you put him in a room full of strangers, it wouldn't take long for Andy to get acquainted & feel at home.  That is a wonderful attribute.  He's friendly, can carry on a conversation & comes across very favorably.  That is so important in life.  He'll do fine & don't forget he has quite a full schedule for a kid.  You didn't start basketball until 8th grade, wasn't it.  Baseball was a summer thing.

When I was walking home from getting my hair done, I decided I was hungry for potato salad.  So I made some & had it in the fridge by 11.  We even had some for lunch.  It had cooled a bit & tasted good.  And we had it for supper.  Daylight savings starts next week - Apr. 3rd so it's pot. salad time.

Saturday

After golf was over Barb switched to basketball & it was so exciting I turned to mute.  Can't take it.  Long 2 minutes with the time outs, etc.  Naturally we're rooting for Wisconsin & they won.  Great.  I'm glad the game is over - too nerve racking for me.  Should that be wracking  Too exciting to think.

Tonite Barb &U I grilled salmon on the grill on the front porch.  It was so good.  Dale doesn't like fish too much so he'll grill a steak later.  He likes to eat later.  W hen we grill the fish there is no smell in the house to bother Dale.  Fussy people.  He really isn't.   Anyway we prefer the grilling.

When you get home you'll lose an hour.  It's "spring ahead" time.  For us E.D.T.  Doesn't seem possible it will be nice to have it light longer in the evenings.

Time to bring this to an end.  Bet you enjoyed all the sights during the trip esp. the cherry blossoms.  Bet they were beautiful.

Now it's Mon, the 27th.  I'll keep adding as I won't mail it til later in the week.

Sun. was nice but windy & I walked to the library & got 4 books, one a new author to me.  The Buff. paper reviewed a book by Kate Wilhelm and I found she has many books available.  Nice to find a new author.  Setting of books in Oregon & Calif.  260 pages of easy & interesting mysteries & murder.  Got 2 by Wilhelm, 1 by Sandra Brown & a favorite by M. C. Beaton.  A Hammish Macbeth mystery.  A bumbling country constable who solves murders to the consternation of his superior officer.  They are fun to read.  I'm one of those who prefers to get books at the library rather than buy them.  Library was pretty busy.

Dale painted his ceiling so he's gotten a start.

Wed. the 29th.

We enjoyed the trip to Erie yesterday.  Weather was perfect.  But we didn't find much in the shopping part.  Barb got 2 blouses & I got some underwear & jelly beans, the latter a very important purchase!!

Arlene H. is out of the hospital & in Buffalo with Julie.

Rose called last nite.  She will have the operation the 2nd week of May.  Has some tests to take but she can do them in Warren.  The bone has started to crumble & that will have to come out.

Lar called today & wants me to "babysit" Torey Thurs. aft.  Will bring him over at 11 A.M. & Kim will pick him up after school.  Lar is taking the car to Du Bois for a checkup & also plans to look around at tractors -- I think that's what he said.  Better quit!

Monday, September 21, 1998

Got your letter today.  Thanks for the pictures of Andy.  He looks so good in his uniform.  I can picture him in a few years answering the telephone calls from the gals.

We enjoyed Carole and Arland's visit this aft.  Got all the news.

Guess it's serious with Rachel & her English boyfriend.  He's sent out resumes & has had a few nibbles.  But he must have a U.S. visa before they will hire him.  They are working on that.

Joyce & her husband are building a home in Cle Elum, Wash.  Their oldest daughter is to be married in Nov, I think Carole said.  The youngest one has a boyfriend, also.

None of Dad's sisters are too good except Ruth.

C. & A. attended the 150th anniversary of the former Augustana Church.  They bro't us a program & booklet about it.  Lots of former Augustana pastors there.  Would have been nice to be able to go.  They met Ruth & Russ Thelin who attended.

Suppose it will be awhile before you know how Ritalin will help Eddie.  Are there any side effects.  I liked his answer to the Dr.  The impulses are something he can't help.

Dad is in bed, Barb is ready for bed & Dale is in Troy.  Now that it gets dark early Dad is ready for bed early.  I'm watching Mon. nite football as well as trying to write a letter.

Were you able to take in a Milwaukee vs. St. Louis baseball game to see McGwire hit a home run.

It's suppose to cool off on Tues & I hope it's true.  It has been a bad time for me - perspiring.

Carole looked so nice.  Arland is getting a little tummy.  It's only a 2 hr. trip from Pittsburgh to Mpls.

Back to Andy's pictures - I'm glad you included the names as now I can put a name to a face - names of friends you mention.  Ross for one.

 Andy, Ross, Riley

I've hit a snag so I'll close for tonite & hope I don't forget to mail it.

Now it's Tues. nite.

Dad fell yesterday & Barb managed to get him up.  Again tonite he fell & I called for Lar but he wasn't home yet so Kim came over & got him up.  It scares him to fall.  He starts walking & then loses his balance & falls.

Kim was telling us she saw Karen Seeley Setili & she said Rick had a job offer in Toronto but she wouldn't leave Rose.  Rick works for the hospital now.  In computers.  He's a great guy.

It's nice that Andy & Eddie can stay along when you go out.  Of course the money is an encouragement.  And I used to sit for 50 cents, 7:30 - 10:30 or 11 pm.  Money went further or is it farther in those day.

 Now it's Wed.  I'll sign off & Walk to the mail box at 5th Ave.

Have a pumpkin cake in the oven.  Recipe from Women's Day.  Sounds good so I hope it tastes good.

Saturday, January 27, 1996

See by the weather channel you have 13" of snow.  We had rain & wind thru the nite & now we have sleet.  During the nite I was awakened with a noise & I wondered what happened.  Had to move the porch glider.  It also took the outside cover of the safety light we have on the garage.  I didn't hear that but Dad did & he wanted to get it but couldn't get his coat on.  A good think as he could have slipped & fallen & I wouldn't hear it.  I retrieve it this A.M.

Thanks so much for the Anniv. cards, letter & pictures & flowers.  They are so pretty in a white basket.  After 51 years it is just another day.

Last Mon. I finallly got to walk to the library & found 3 books right away.  Read them all by Thurs.

"The Maltese Angel" by C. Cookson.
"Trust Me" by Jayne Ann Krentz.
"A Tangled Web" by Judith Michael.

All so good.  I couldn't put them down.

Lar & Kim will come over to watch the Super Bowl.  I'll fix a quichie, a new recipe I found, veggies & dip, etc.

In less than a week it will be Feb & that brings us closer to spring.

I'm enclosing a couple of clipping from the paper.  Rick Setili, Karen Seeley's husband & a great guy.  She is lucky to have him.  They have 3 children, a girl & a boy.  Kirstin is in 8th grade & Evan in 2nd.

The former Good Morning Farm was owned by Alan Blair's 2nd wife.

Kim said the former Savoy Restaurant was finally sold & will be made into a Sports Bar with sandwiches, beer, etc.  It's been vacant for some time now.

Wm. Clinger will not run for Congress this year.  He's been there a long time & he never had any opposition.  Now many will run to try & get the seat he held.

Think I've run out of news & the washer is soon off.

Monday, September 23, 1991

Time to write letters.  Thanks for your letter, Barbara.  The pictures are so darling.  Dad sent his film off to be developed so I'll send them when they come.

Did Andy get the package from The Nesting Place.  The one I ordered wasn't available so they sent another one in its place.  Like Superman - she said it wasn't available to the public very often.  Hope he likes it.

Janick's has reopened but I haven't been in.

Kim & the gals in exercise class hit the lottery for 333.00 so each one got 33.00.

For Christmas Kim plans to get Andy the V.C.R. "The Rescuers Down Under".  Just tho't I'd alert you so you won't get it.

The new brick house on East St, the one where the wife refused to move into - it was sold to the ones who bot the house on 2nd Ave, next to Market St. School.  So that house is now rental & they moved into the new house.  Cost $210,000 to build & was sold for $250,000.  The buyers are friends or known to Carlene & her husband.  Remember.

I'm working on a 1000 pc. puzzle - not the hardest, but it is mostly grays - "Arizona Watertower".  Brick, trees & grays.  I'm getting there but I've plenty of time so no rush.

Fri A.M. Kim & I are invited to see Karen S's new home.  Rose will be there, too.  I had mentioned to Kim maybe we could go over some A.M. & Kim must have said something to Karen.  In Church on Sun. she invited me.  I'm anxious to see it.

Kim & Lar will be home for Christmas.

No more news.

Photos from Labor Day visit to Warren.

[enclosure]

Saturday, June 9, 1990

Last  Fri. Barb, Kim & I went to "Open House" of these apt. & they are very nice but small.  Fine for a widowed person, a single or someone starting out.  It really is a fine improvement to that neighborhood.  Dad missed as he played golf that aft. & it was just from 1-3.

The middle of Aug. will see the opening of a new dept. store downtown.   Janick's.  A couple from Calif. bot it (both experienced in the buying & wholesale part of the business) & that will be so nice.  We look forward to it. Betty Lee is still vacant.

Did I mention Rick Seteli (Karen Seeley) who has worked for the city will take over as business mgr. doing the work Harry did & working with the Segal son who works with his dad but didn't want that part of the business responsibility.  Can't remember his name - the red-headed one.  Rick starts the end of June.  It means a raise in salary & he won't miss the p.m. mtgs - Council mtgs, etc.

We finally got the Nelson round robin but no special news.  Sig & Geo. will be at Roland's for their anniversary & Rol will be 40 the 24th of June in case you want to send a card.

Barb will go for her drivers licence next Tues.  Be nice for her to have it in case of an emergency, etc.  She had to get a permit, etc. as her Wisc. license had lapsed.

Fri. nite the Mets looked good.  Sid was pitching like he used to & they were getting hits & beat Pitts. 7-1 despite 2 rain delays.  We sat up til 11:30 when it was 4-0 so we don't know how late it was when it ended.  And they could have won Fri. nite but the C.F.er dropped the ball.  Maybe Frank Cashen should have been fired - he dealt away good players & they had to put infielders in the outfield.  But I still "love" them.  Just looked licence up in the dictionary & that is the 2nd choice of spelling so I won't put an s over the c.

P.S.  Went to water a hanging planter on the front porch & a bird flew out & scared me.  So we looked into it & there is a bird's nest with 5 eggs.  So we will be able to watch as the babies come out - feeding, flying, etc.  A small bird like the size of a sparrow.  I also got my flowers planted on Tues.  By the house & garage.

Sunday, September 1, 1985

Just a little note to enclose a clipping of the Levinson wedding.  Didn't you help - can't think of her name [Renee Shulman] - babysit the girls.

Also a couple of cartoons from the Phila. Sun. paper that amused me!!  First time we've had this paper & we find it interesting.

Last Wed. nite Bensons, Hollertz's & Nelsons went to Olean to The Library for dinner.  Remodeled old library into a restaurant - interesting & good food.

Next Sat. we're having a breakfast picnic at Kinzua Bridge Park with same people.

Went to church at St. Paul today.  Found out Karen S. is expecting twins end of next May.  They're pretty sure it's twins.  Rick has twin brothers.

Also remember Jack Hoffman.  Has 3 sons, one Barb's age, one Dale's.  He is seriously ill with leukemia.  Has a 50-50 chance but it doesn't look good.  He just retired last spring.

Our weather this past week was like the lake weather.  Got down to 46 last night & I was cold in bed so I put the elec. blanket on the bed today.

It's beautiful today & we'll take a walk to mail letters.

Kim stopped by twice this past week.  She calls Lar "Nels" & they are cute together.  She made muffins & brot some over & they are good.  Guess she missed Lar while they were apart - she was on vacation the previous week so it was a 2 week separation.

We're enjoying tomatoes from the garden, cucumbers, too.  Enjoy your teaching assignment.

[Enclosures]