Saturday, March 10, 2006

I'll start a letter before lunch.  I made a loaf of blueberry bread, took a few things I won't be wearing up to the attic & brought down some cotton shirts.  They need to be washed but that can wait.  It is a nice spring day.

Dale will go to get a blood test at the hosp. lab.  He said his Blazer is acting up, needs a new engine, so he should get rid of it.  Also talks about selling the Monte Carol & just driving the El Camino.  It hasn't been driven for a number of years as he has been working on it. With just 1 car, it can be kept in the garage all the time.  Save on insurance money as well.

When we were at the Lakewood Mall last Thurs, I was wishing I was 50 years younger. Why?  One of the shops had the cutest outfit in their window.  A pretty pink top with the popular tiered skirt in a pretty print to match the top. It is really a pretty outfit.  Guess you know I tho't it was "pretty". by the use of that word!

Also on the way home, we saw a v-shaped flock of geese flying north.  A sign of spring, but I haven't seen a robin yet.  I'm ready for spring.  I have to pull the shades over the kitchen sink windows down a bit as the sun shines in my eyes.

The new family across the st. have someone clearing & raking up.  I heard they want to do some new landscaping.

Once in awhile the Shopping Guide is delivered to our door.  It included a section of houses for sale.  I noticed it said sale pending for Collins house.  The cost is $124,900.  They have 4 bedrooms & a big backyard, double garage so that is not too bad.  Ryberg's house hasn't been sold.  Mail just came so I'll read your letter.

Mar. 17.  Happy St. Patrick's Day

I have really enjoyed the Baseball World Classic.  And I think the announcing team of Gary Thorne, Arestes Destrada & Orel H. are tops.  None are overbearing, or hogs the mike.  I hope they announce a log of the games.

Last nite Lar said he'll soon have a hi-intensity (hope that's the correct word) TV.  He wants it to watch the World Soccer games coming up soon.  Something new in TVs.

When I got up yesterday there wasn't any snow but about 6 AM, it started to snow hard.  Kim said driving to school was really tough.  The neighbor shoveled his walk but by aft. all sidewalks were clear from the sun.  It is clear & cold this A.M.  25.

Yesterday I was busy so today I'm taking it easy.  Our dinner is in the crockpot.  W hen we shopped on Mon. I got some meat whose date was soon to expire.  I got 2 pkg. & froze them & used one today. Nice to get a bargain once in awhile.

Just watched a crazy movie.  TCM, of course.  Of course I didn't see it from the beginning.

Scott is going out for track this spring.  Barb & Lynn wonder how long he'll last.  He wants to go out for sports as the girls go for those guys!  He wants to be "cool".  Marisa arrived home last nite from Fla.  She enjoyed her time there.  Lynn said to Barb things are easier when Marisa is gone.  Scott can't do anything right & Marisa constantly yells & swears at him. She has a filthy mouth & that is not good.

Sheila & Sue are raising their rates because of the increase of gas & elec.  2.00 for shampoo & set & $1.00 for perms.  That's not much.  Starts Apr. 1.

Finally saw 2 robins in our driveway this A.M.

Dale wondered if he got a bad batch of oil for his Blazer.  He changed the oil & that has helped, but there is a noise that bothers him.  So he'll look for the reason for that.  He's not quite ready to give up on the Blazer.

Last nite Lar figured out my state tax & it is ready to mail.  Dale has finished & sent in his taxes.  He'll get a refund.  Barb hasn't figured her out yet.  Last yr. it was finished in Jan.

I've only seen the U.S. team place once & that was against Japan & they should have lost that game. 3rd base "rhubarb" went against Japan & the player didn't leave early.  They aren't very good representatives for the u.S.  I bet some team's gen. manager's mouths are "watering" when they watch some of the Cuban players.  They are good.  I'm anxious for regular baseball to start.  Pittsburgh is doing pretty good in spring training games.  I should root for them, but I don't' know if I can give up being a Met fan.

Apr. 17th is Millie's birthday.  You are constantly in my thoughts & prayers and I know you'll come thru with flying colors!  We all are praying for you.

It's only Thurs. so I'm a day early for St. Pat's.  It has been that way since Lar & Kim come on Wed. Next Wed. is that last time so we'll get back to Thurs. again.

The crockpot dinner was good.  Dale isn't home yet (6pm) so I didn't wait for him.  Most likely he's working on the Blazer.

I pulled another boo boo today.  The crockpot was ready by 9 A.M.  At 11 A.M. I couldn't smell it cooking.  I forgot to turn it on -- another senior moment!!!

USA Today had a story on "the other third baseman in NYC", meaning the Mets David Wright.  They think he'll be an All Star for a long time.  He is really a nice kid, down to earth, & wanting to please. And he's been a Met fan growing up.  He has 3 brothers & his father is a police captain in Va.

There was also an article on the increase of the number of college grads living at home.  Various reasons, debts, cost of apt. or buying one.  They come home so they can save money to get a start.  Some parents like the idea, some don't.

Tomorrow I have to get more meds & will probably go to the Mall.  I need to geet a few things.

Remember we are with you all in thoughts & prayers.

P.S.  John just called to tell us they are going to have a son.  All is well with Fe & the baby. You can tell that John is very excited with this news.

Saturday, September 17, 2005

I was finally happy after the Mets game last nite. The Mets beat the Braves 4-0 & Pedro M pitched the entire game.  Except the last inning was scary -- bases loaded & Pedro got both Chipper Jones & Andrew Jones out -- the home run hitters.

Sun. is sure a busy TV day.  The Mets last game on NY channel to be on TV so I have to watch that, Nascar & the Steelers at Houston & the Steelers are good!  Even Penn State has improved.

To answer your questions -- it was just the Lavelles, Lundgren & Nelson's who picnicked together.  I remember Janet L. made the best macaroni & cheese.  Oil City was their first church, I think.

Dale is on vacation this next week.

Yesterday Barb & I went to our Mall & we were looking around & I bo't my 1st Christmas gift.  Mentioned we start early!  Barb also bo't her first gift.

Sun. aft. the 18th

Last nite I watched the Wisc/UNC game & it sure was an exciting game.  I was rooting for Wisc.  Boy those guys took some hard tackles.  I bet the Carolina QB was sure sore today. How do the bodies take that punishment?

Today I'm watching the Mets.  Dare I think they could win the game.  They are in the lead as of the 7th inning.

Dale is always changing my dish cloths.  This A.m. I decided to beat him at his own game & took a clean one.  At noon there wasn't the blue one I put out but another one.  He just took it for granted I left the old one there.  Usually he smells if they are sour.  I let him know I didn't like it.

Then I asked him what we could have for supper other than chicken.  He suggested pizza & I liked that.  Win a few, lose a few.

In church this A.M. Patty W. Phillips' boyfriend held the baby during church.  He was a little fussy & they took him out for a little bit.  He is so cute & a good one, that baby, that is.

The Mets did it - they beat the Braves 4-1.  Glavine had a complete game.  Chipper, Andruw, Francouer, who is young & a good hitter.  Just 6 pitches to get those 3 out.  Wow!!!  They took 2 games to 1.  That is a miracle.

Thurs. Sept 22

Kim was fine tonite.  Talkative & in a good mood.  Everyone has problems at one time or another.

Barb tried to cover some spots on the car.  Dale got the color from work but she didn't do a good job -- even she admitted that.  So today Dale redid the job; waxed the car & it looks so nice.  You had to do an A+ job to please Dale.

Yesterday Barb & I went to the Lakewood Mall & I did some more gift shopping.  Also got gift ideas from Kim for Larry.  We went grocery shopping at Wegman's.

We didn't get to the casino.  Guess we lost interest & Dale didn't really care to go.

He has enjoyed his vacation just lazing around.  That's what vacations are for.  This week was Sam B's last day at Shults.  They are moving to N. Carolina.  He has a job in a garage down there.

The weather has been perfect for Dale.  He has spent time in the sun.

Can you believe Hurricane Rita.  I'm glad I'm a Northern & away from the storms.



It is dark before 8pm now so you know summer is over.  Next week, even tomorrow, will show a change in the temps.

We are all in good spirits here.  Glad we are a family that cares for one another.

Tuesday, September 14, 2004

This is Dale's long day & Barb & I wanted to go to Jamestown.  So I foxed sloppy joe & figured that would be a good lunch for Dale.  You see Wegman's gives a 5% discount to seniors on Tues.  First I wanted to go to Walmart's.  I got a bedskirt for my new bed.  I have a quilt but it doesn't cover so a bed skirt is needed.  Will press it & get it on tomorrow.  I change the position of my bed -- the head is on the wall facing the school. It gives.  It gives more room when entering the room.  I like how it looks.  Then we went to the Mall & I paid my Penney's bill.  We didn't find anything we liked at any of the stores.  We had lunch at Red Lobster.  Then to Home Depot where I got 2 window shades for the 2 narrow windows over the kitchen sink.  A light tan & they look so much better & blend with the wood.   Then to Wegman's & home by 2:45 in time for Barb to take Scott home.

We got a catalog from that Woman's store in the Boston area, whose name I never can remember.  I've been wanting a sweater set but can't find any.  I found one -- a cardigan sweater & a mock neck shell.  Chadwick finally came to me.  Barb saw an outfit she wanted -- print skirt, shell & jacket.  It's pretty but the shell & jacket are on back order.  Th e sweaters & skirt should be here by the 27th.  We got free postage 0 good til Oct 4.  We're hoping to go to Erie one of these weeks.  Maybe I can find something there.

Our pastor & her husband have an exchange student from S. America.  She was in church last Sun. Goes to Sheffield High School   She will have an interesting experience.

I made potato salad & apple pie to go with steak & green beans & Kim won't be here tonite. She has to be a Red Cross teacher as she has to renew every 3 years.  Something to do with Phy Ed.  Lar will be here.

Last nite I made a macaroni casserole for supper.  When I tasted it, it burned my mouth.  I checked the diced tomato can & it was with green chiles & they were HOT.  Even Dale said so.  It was not a large plate of food for me, plus *&ice cold water to help.

When we were at the Lakewood Mall, we visited the Bon Ton Christmas, yes, I said Christmas, store.  We each bought an ornament.  The trees were so beautiful.  One all with pink decorations.

It was nice to wish Andy Happy Birthday last nite.  I didn't think to talk to anyone else, as I was ready for bed & remembered I wanted to call Andy.  He said he was just getting in so I chose a good time.

I wonder how much rain we'll get from Ivan and Jeanne is following.  How much can these flooded areas take.  They have to take the good with the bad if you live in Fla, & area.  I'll take the snow & cold weather any time.

Tuesday, August 10, 2004

How was your trip home.  I thought about all of you each hour on the hour -- figuring where you might be.

Today I called Tremblay Upholstery & got a figure for getting the seats in the eating area reupholstered.  He will put in better foam, etc.  He'll bring by samples tomorrow.  He's quite a guy & a talker.  I learned quite a bit about his life, etc.  He goes to St. John's in Pleasant Township, so we talked religion.  I probably could get a new kitchen set but these seats are comfortable to sit on & will be eve better after being fixed.

Barb didn't feel good yesterday -- headache & upset stomach.  But today she feels fine. Worked at Bert's this A.M. & then at Lynn's.

It was so nice having you here.  I enjoyed all the things we did together.

Gary Tremblay, who did the measuring, etc. said a couple of times that we have a nice home.

Yesterday was a beautiful day -- today was nice this A.M., but now it's raining.  Just what we need!

Larry & Kim must be in Fla. now.  It will be a short trip for them, but at least they get to spend a little time with Kim's sister & family.

I reread the letters I received last Sat.  I had more time to read them more carefully & digest the news.

Thurs. the 12th of Aug.

Barb & I went to Jamestown today.  We ate lunch at the Red Lobster.  I checked my double bed sheets & the fitted sheets won't fit the larger mattresses so I got 2 fitted sheets.  At Penney's & on sale.  One white, one beige to go with sheets I have.  I plan to look for a double bed mattress set to give me more space in my bedroom.  Also got a top & pair of slacks at Sears.  Blouse on sale.  Tomorrow we'll go to the Emporium, Valone's shoe store, & Blair's.

Wonder how Lar & Kim are enjoying their trip to Fla. with the storms Bonnie & Charles coming in.  Hope they'll be able to get home on Sat.

A week ago we looked forward to y our visit.  Now it seems like a dream -- a nice one as I enjoyed every minute of your visit.

Barb has a new gripe.  They're talking of putting a skateboard park at Beaty Field.  I know our church has "no skateboarding" signs up & the kids need a place.  I don't know why she lets these things bother her -- she can't stop it.  I figure "what will be will be" so accept it.  It can't be where they play football & gym -- when the days are nice.

We've chosen materials to have the kitchen seat recovered.  A medium tan.  I'm spending my children's inheritance with this project & the new mattress, bedding, etc.

I've started another jigsaw puzzle.

Bert only weighs 90 lbs & looks terrible.  She wanted a flat tummy so eats low cal food.  Her eyesight & hearing are bad & she can't stand very long.  She needs to gain weight.  Barb had to help her get out of the tub.

Now some of you are in Nova Scotia.  I know it was a good time seeing new friends again.

Fri the 13th

Barb said you called this A.M.  We've been wondering about Lar & Kim & plan to call Betsy to see if she's heard.  Too bad the weather isn't nice but now they know what it's like to be in a hurricane.

This aft. we visited the Emporium but nothing took our interest.  Then to Valone's & I bo't 2 pair of shoes.  One for walking, on sale & so comfortable.  Also got a pair of navy pumps for dress.  I'm really spending the money.  Our last stop was at a coffee place near Valone's. Barb had a piece of cake & I had cinnamon-caramel biscotti.  I've seen biscotti recipes but never tasted it.  Very good.  I had Guatemalan coffee -- the weakest of 4 flavors.  They added hot water so I enjoyed it.  It's a very nice place & we'll go there again.

This letter won't get mailed until tomorrow.

Almost forgot -- our last stop was the library.  I got 3 books:  Barbara T. Bradford's Emma's Secret; Kathy Reich's Deja Dead, a new author Ted Benson recommended & another new author Jill Marie Landis' Heat Wave.  Tho't it looked interesting.  Which gets the most attention -- books or puzzle.

I still forgot that we went to Blair's to look around but didn't buy anything.  Took a catalog & they ahve some interesting things.

Sat A.M.

I was up at 6:15 A.M., came downstairs, & read my book "Heat Wave" about a female P.I. It is so good so it looks like my puzzle will be neglected.

Good to hear from you.  Halifax must be a wonderful city to visit.

Want to get this mailed.

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.

Monday, February 10, 2003

Last Sat. Barb took Bert & her friend Laura to the Lakewood Mall.  Laura also has money, lives in Hawaii & visits in Warren.  Her husband is dead & he was originally from Warren.  They had lunch at The Red Lobster & Barb had the best meal ever.  Salmon with Cajun spices & shrimp on top of the salmon.  She said it was so good.  Bert doesn't drive anymore & they were so appreciative that Barb took them.  In fact Laura wants to visit Alaska & asked Barb to go with her.  Barb isn't interested as she wouldn't care to be with Laura that much.

This aft. Barb called for reservations for the reunion.  They said they reserved the 3rd floor for the reunion.  Will be nice to be together.

This A.M. I had a blood test as I see the Dr. on Fri the 14th.  Barb took me over & I walked home.  The walk wasn't that bad as I was bundled up.  I had to fast for the test -- that was the hardest part -- had to wait to eat breakfast til after 9 A.M.  Made myself oatmeal & it tasted so good.

I'm working on a jigsaw puzzle.  It is coming together pretty good.  Still haven't started my second book from the library.

I'm trying to plan dinners & it's a tough job.  Never know what to have in spite of all my cook books & magazines.

Now it's Wed. pm.  We can't seem to escape the snow & cold weather, but they say conditions should change soon & it can't be too soon for me.

Last nite we had baked fish and scalloped potatoes   Some pot. were left over so I had them tonite with a slice of ham.  I'll fix oven fires for Dale to be served at 7 pm.

Tomorrow we'll celebrate Valentines with steak & baked potatoes.  Made a favorite dessert.  Graham cracker crust, cream cheese mixture over the crust & topped with cherry pie filling.  Easy to make & one the family likes.

I got the video My Big Fat Greek Wedding.  I'm waiting til Fri. nite to view it.  Sheila saw it at the Library Warren Theater downtown & she said she wants to get the video.  She missed some of the dialogue because of all the laughter.

I finished my puzzle with only 1 piece missing.

Do you know the answer to crossword puzzle with 5 spaces.  Prayer Wheel priests.  I looked in the big dictionary to find it -- it is in the Buddhist religion so the answer is LAMAS.  I'll remember that & I learned it by looking for the answer.

Thurs A.M. the 13th.

Barb went with Bert to see about a wig.  There was one Barb tho't looked nice on Bert & she ended up buying it.  It was layered with highlights.  When she got home Bert wasn't sure she liked it & Barb wondered if she had talked her into it so it was Barb's fault.  Last Sat when they went to Jamestown Bert wore it & both Barb & Laura like it on Bert.  Sat nite Bert went out to dinner with friends & they raved about the new wig.  Hearing that made Barb feel better & of course it made Bert happy.

Bert was asked to speak to a group & tell of her experiences in the business world but she refused.  She tells Barb some stories & Barb said she should write down some of her experiences.  One time in NYC she was going to a special dinner & she had cut her hand & it was bandaged.  She didn't want to wear gloves to cover it so she put sequins on it. People tho't it was so clever & the next day she had 5 job offers & that led her to being in an ad agency with a responsible job for a woman at that time.  She is 87 now.  It was a man's world then & she made her way to the top.  And she is a member of a long time Warren family so she would have a lot of interesting things to tell.  It would be interesting if she would do it for the historical society.

Tomorrow I see the Dr.  Hope it warms up a bit.

Not much going on here.

Saturday, December 15, 2001

Today Barb picked 2 pansies she saw blooming.  The middle of Dec!

This A.M. I made a coffee cake & started making the regular choc. chips plus Spritz & Russian Tcakes.  But I forgot to add the egg to the Spritz so they are crispier. Will have to make another batch on Mon.  They taste OK & will get eaten. Plan to make 2 more recipes besides the Spritz.  One dessert will be Viennetta & cookies.

Yesterday we went to the Lakewood Mall in the rain.  It was rain needed.  I found a pr. of brown slacks which color I haven't had for ages -- at Sears.  At Bon Ton I found a cotton blouse to go with them.  A stripe with a tan background.  With coupons & mark down, it cost $11.88.  I took a "lg." but it is a little "roomy" but since it is 100% cotton, I expect it to shrink.

I sent a card to Joyce & it came back -- wrong address.  I don't have Joan's latest address either.

It seems that Eddie must like playing in the school band.  Hope he keeps it up.  And his Cub Scouts group sounds very active.  That is nice.  He will be old enough for Boy Scouts.  Hope he keeps it up.  I know Larry really liked scouting.  Bruce being active in Scouting made a difference.  And Mr. Myers was a good leader.  He is in the Rouse home now.

I'm watching golf and what a beautiful section of Calif. they are playing in.  Southern Cal. in the mountains.

The Mets have been busy with trades.  They should have an extra special infield.  Think Eddie will have to wait until baseball season to get the shirt & hats he wants.

Got a card from Sylvia Yosten today.  Pete has prostate cancer -- he is having treatments.  Sometimes they work & sometimes they don't.  Jeff has moved to Kansas City, Mo. to be close to his 2 daughters.  The divorce hit him very hard.  Max is still in N. Carolina.  Karen married Bill Weldon & they are grandparents.  2nd daughter has a baby & no husband.  Lives at home.

This week Dale got his regular wage; vacation pay he didn't take, plus a day for not taking the 3rd week & a bonus check.  Think the bonus check was $800.00  Now they balance out what the 4 agencies make & divide by the workers.  Warren has the best record so other groups complained when their bonus wasn't as big so they came up with dividing it this way.  No smoking, no drinking, living at home, he doesn't spend much -- except at Big Lots & that's cheap spending -- so he should have a nice saving acct.  Not even car payments.  Some parts are costly but he does OK. He's happy & nice to have around.

Sun the 16th

Harry Johnson who owned the Johnson Hotel died age 94.  Wife Ethel and 2 daughters were in church today.   Kris was y our age Paul.  She lives in Fla. & I'm sure Ethel said they had an ice cream or some sort of food franchise & it looks like it.  She has gained weight.  Other daughter, whose name (Karen, maybe) I can't remember lives in Warren & looks good.  She left the church for a Pentecostal church.  Then she divorced her husband & I don't' know if she goes to any church now.

Other news -- Masterson's will close the end of Dec. but will keep the warehouse & storage lockers they have.  So far it won't mean they won't need Barb to work taking care of Scott.  They didn't have to declare bankruptcy -- they saw the writing on the wall.  That is valuable property.

Maybe you read Loranger's declared bankruptcy.  The oldest son bo't the other 3 out so he was the lone owner.  One married Chris Cataldo -- 2nd for both --  one is in Calif. -- he married Chris Lundahl.  And one has the old Walker Dairy bldg. on the West Side for another part of the business that is successful.  Loranger's has a business in Hungary & that is still a going concern.  Sometimes the sons can't carry on the business left by the father.  This is tough on Warren as far as jobs goes.

[A repeat]  Barb picked a couple of pansies yesterday.  Imagine flowers in Dec.  They don't' know what is happening.  Neither do we!  No snow for Christmas.

Imagine Eddie is looking forward to his birthday & Christmas vacation.

I know you'll have a wonderful Christmas.

Merry Christmas & Best Wishes for a healthy & Happy New Year.