Sunday, May 17, 2006

The Mets came on at 8 pm & they are at St. Louis.  I washed my face, etc. so I can stay up until 10:30 & then go to bed.

I'm enclosing Chiodo's menu.  We really enjoyed our dinners.  Barb especially.  It was a special for Mother's Day he doesn't have on the menu very often.  Usually she has some complaint about the food.  Not this time.  Dale & I had sandwiches with my pork leftover -- huge servings -- & it was good.  Dale really liked it.  He said his ribs had a "woodsy" taste he didn't like that much.  Kim tasted Lar's & really like it & she's not a big meat eater.  We were all satisfied -- except.  There was a Pentecostal group having dinner & they had a 20 min or so musical presentation, guitar, elec. which they didn't need in a small area.  It was hard to talk above the music.  Then they had testimonies abut how hey came to fat.  They should have chosen a private dining area or had it catered.  I'm surprised they chose a place that serves alcohol but things can't be perfect.

Am also enclosing a picture of the '56 flood.  Barb tho't you'd be interested in seeing it.  Someone must have given it to Dad.  Before the dam was built.

Called Millie last nite -- she is not I ha flooded area just a lot of rain.

Linda is in Chicago this week.  (I didn't realize he retired 3 years ago.)  Last Sun A.M. when she got back from breakfast there was a note saying call your neighbor.  She couldn't imagine why.  She found out 6 cars in her neighborhood sitting in the driveways were damaged -- windows broken, scratches, etc.  She has a garage but doesn't use it in the summer.  Bet she wishes she did now.  It will be repaired.

Noticed in the USA Today state news that your ex friend Chuck Chvala now has "home detention as part of his 9 month sentence".  It is a sad situation.

My puzzle is slowly coming together.  I like this one & will finish it.  Might take 2-3 weeks but who is in a rush.

Dale gave me an impatiens hanging plant & yours & his are on the front of the porch facing n. yard & then decided on the porch facing E.  Hope I have my directions straight.  The flowers look so nice. 

You asked if I could find the church & parsonage on the G. F. map you sent.  I'm not sure I can.

Fri.  Just got back from getting my hair done.

Barb said Scott showed her some porn pictures & a bad poem he got on his computer.  She told Lynn & when Lynn confronted him he showed a stick figure instead of the real thing.  So Barb had a talk with Scott & he got rid of the porn.   He is smart enough to find that but not smart when it comes to studying.  He doesn't want to be a nerd.  Crazy kids.  Scott can't keep things to himself (which is good) & tells Barb instead of his parents.  He doesn't want to get yelled at.

Mets vs. Yankees at Shea this weekend.  Hope the Mets hitters show up for these games.  All are on TV.  N.Y., Fox, & ESPN.

All is well.

Thursday, April 20, 2006

You sounded good, Paul, on the phone, so I hope things are improving day by day.  I think of you all a lot.

Today is Barb's birthday.  I made a carrot cake -- her wish.  And we're having the chicken with the mushrooms & cheese, another favorite.  Green beans, 'taters & fruit salad.  I also baked the choc. cooky dough from the freezer while the oven was in use.  My favorites now -- with Andes mint topping that melts & make them look so nice.  That was the end of it so I'll have to make another batch to have on hand.  Sheila told me she freezes cooky dough so I tried.  It is great to have on hand.

Last Fri my washer blew a fuse -- only with new wiring we don't have fuses.  Barb said she knew what to do.  But it didn't work.  Dale came home & said you have to push the nob to off & then turn it to on.  But I never tired it again.  On Mon I called the repair man.  There are 2 sides -- one for regular wash & one for delayed wash.  I used that side & finished my laundry. He couldn't find any reason for 1 side to work & not the other.  Yesterday he came again, filled the washer, turned it on & waited for the machine to stop.  It didn't.  I told him we didn't turn the nob to "off" before we tried to set it.  And after Dale told us what to do, we never tested it.  "It's so nice to have a man around the house--" So I wasted money because I didn't try it again.  Oh well, how I know who to call if something goes wrong.

Called Millie on her birthday.  They celebrated on East Sun. at Larry's place at the Cape. Allen stayed around for a couple of days & took Millie to lunch on Mon. & she enjoyed that. She said she never thought she'd live so long.  Each year she said she slows down.  I know that feeling.

The Mets plan to build a new stadium to be completed in '09.  Wonder if I'll still be around to see it on TV.  They lost their 1st series & of course it had to be to Atlanta.

Barb saw the cutest dog sitting by a flower pot that says "welcome".  The dog looks like Torey & it has such a nice expression on its face.  We got it for Lar's birthday.  A yard decoration.

At Valentines & Easter I always get favorite candies to put by the plates.  But I forgot to do it last Sun. -- a senior moment -- so they'll get them tonite.  M&M's for Kim, Hershey milk choc. nuggets for Dale (my favorite as well), & Hershey's dark choc. miniatures for Barb & Lar.

Dale mowed the lawn for the first time last Mon.  We've had a series of beautiful days but starting tomorrow we are in for rainy days.  But it makes the grass nice & green.

Fri. the 21st

We had a nice birthday dinner.  I gave her money & Dale did & so did Lynn so she can shop for what she wants.  Larry said he'd like the same meal Dale had except for the cake.  He wants carrot cake. Then the birthdays will be over until fall.  Oh no, Kim's is in June.

It won't be long before all of your festivities are upon  you, the way time flies.  May will be here in 9 days.  Wow!  Take care of yourself so for all these parties your strength will be back. But you are in good health so that means a lot.

Barb has stated her bike riding & enjoys it.

Sheila told me this A.M. that Angie Pellegrino's daughter &  boyfriend bo't Collins' house. They plan to be married this summer.  Here I thought a family with children would move in. Leave it to the beauty operators or hairdressers to get all the news.

Dale said another guy at work is having marital problems.  Men gossip just as much as women, I guess.

Thursday, January 26, 2006

61 years ago Dad & I were married on a cold, foggy night.  61 sounds like so many years but it seems like yesterday.  Lots of pleasant memories.

John called the other nite -- he had good news.  John & Fe will have a son or daughter later this summer.  They are very happy.

I called Millie & John had called her.  In our conversation Millie said "I bet you are happy about the Pittsburgh Steelers".  I said "very happy!"  She was disappointed in her N.E. team.

Do you ever hear Jeannie Most ? (sp, but that's the way it sounds).  Yesterday she had a story about the latest "thing".  Eye gazing when dating.  No conversation.  18 seconds of gazing into each other's eyes & getting the message.  No blinking.  It was so cute & she has such a good way of telling these stories.

Also Craig Wilson of USA Today had a cute article on retirement.  The first group of baby boomers turned 60.  Wonder how many of the parents are till happily married.

Marisa is having problems with depression & saw the Dr. yesterday.  That is so sad for a young person.

Last nite Barb & Larry were talking about the TV show "American Idol".  Barb watched it for the first time Tues. nite & couldn't get over the lack of talent.  Both Lar & Barb treat it as a joke.  If the contestant was bad, they started swearing at the judges & one said what does Paula know.  Lar also watches "Desperate Housewives" & like it.  Kim falls asleep during the program.  Last nite I watched the Pittsburgh Penguins beat Wn. 8-1.  Finally they won a game.  They have a great young player, Sidney Crosby, who will be a star hockey player. He's only 20 years old & can really play.

Winter is back.  We got enough snow to shovel but the temps are suppose to rise.  It was cold this A.M., when I put the garbage out.  Yesterday when it was snowing & blowing, Dale had to go to Pittsburgh for school.  He got home safe & sound but said the driving wasn't too good.

Mon. when we went to the Mall, I got a new puzzle.  Small floral design.  Started it & it won't be an easy one, but there is no rush to finish it.

The library's annual report is so good & what makes it so interesting are the graphs you have explaining the money, use of books, etc.  Interesting to hear of your retirement plans.  It will be here before you know it.  You have made the library an excellent situation for the next director.

Alice Nasman gave me a pair of slacks a 14 petite & they fit beautifully, esp. around the rear. Even the length is good.  I've been getting Brigg's slacks but they are a little large in the hips & I don't like the look but still wear them. Took in the back seam some & that helps.

When Lar & Kim come Wed. nites, Thurs. seems like an extra day.  I don't do much.  Will work on the puzzle & on Thursday.  After lunch I plan to make a peanut butter pie.  It's for the freezer & dessert for Dale.

Fri. the 27th

Today is Bob's 50th birthday.  He anted to spend it in Fla. with Lynn but that didn't happen. Lynn didn't want to leave Marisa & Scott alone, esp. since Marisa is still seeing her "bad" boyfriend.  Instead Marisa is taking time off because of her moods & will go to Fla. to be with her grandparents -- Lynn's folks.  She will spend 2-3 months down there & hopes (folks) she will forget Dan, a real loser.  Why are nice girls attracted to bad boys & he has been bad since teens & before.  His folks like Marisa because they hope she can change him.

Sunny day but it was 9 this A.M.

Saturday, January 7, 2006

Your letters are always a highlight of my day.  I chuckled when I read of your banana bread adventure.

Both Kim & I suffer from a crack in the thumb but only once so far this winter for me.  CVS advertised Burt's Bees cremes.  I got the cuticle cream & had cream & the cuticle cream helped to heal the crack & rough fingers as well as soften the cuticle.  The crack didn't fee sore as long as usual.

Alice Nasman called me this A.M.  I have to go back to New Year's Sun.  When I arrived at church I couldn't see anyone entering or any cars driving into the parking lot.  So I wondered if the holiday service had started at 10 A.M. & I didn't want to be that late so I returned home. Mon. at the Mall I saw Irma Thelin & she said someone saw me & wondered if I had gotten sick.  So I told her my story.  Then this A.M. Alice called & said she dreamed about me & woke up crying.  She thought I didn't go to church because I was made at her.  So I told her my story again.  I assured her I was not made at her & my not going to church was my fault entirely.  So we talked 45 min.  Twice she said "I'll let you go" & started in again.  I feel she needs someone to talk to so I let her talk & say yes, uh huh, etc.

The bare Christmas tree is still standing.  It is up to Dale to take it down & put it away.  (He did!)

When the car doors lock, one of them make a terrible noise.  The lock needs to be replaced. Dale ordered one at a cost of 39.00.  But if I had to take it to Shults to have it repaired, the cost would be 69.00 plus the labor.  So I'm lucky to have Dale do it.  I just pay for the lock.

This A.M. I used a ripe bananas & made ban. bread & also blueberry bread.  Th en a pumpkin pie to go with homemade beef-veggie soup, now simmering on the stove.  Our meal for tonite.

Kim & Lar will come on Wed. nite for awhile as Lar will be going to Lakewood with 5 other guys to play soccer.  For a couple of months or so.

The dishes from Lar & Kim were 3 boxes, service for 4.  2 of them are still under the tree. The big problem is where will they be stored.  Barb wants me to buy more shelving for the basement to store them there.  She loves the dishes & it was at her suggestion  they got them.  They are pottery & heavier to handle.

After lunch Barb came into the kitchen smelling very strong & Dale commented on it.  Of course that didn't go over with Barb.  What I'm trying to say is her perfume is very potent smelling.  Her response Dales does things I could complain about & then she does -- to me. I let it go in one ear & out the other.  Life is funny.

Just finished talking to Gen first & then Millie.  Don't have much of a conversation with Gen but Millie & I talked quite awhile.  Both had nice holidays.  Millie is glad to be closer to Linda & sees a lot of her.  She was telling about a lady who is 106 years old living in an apt. there.  She is still very sharp.  Reads, knits, etc.  But she told Millie, she is getting tired.

Thurs A.M. Jan 12

This A.M. Dale said it seemed like Fri because Lar & Kim were her last nite.  I agree but it is nice to have a day without much to do.

Tues. Barb spent the day in bed because she didn't feel good.  Not the flu like Dale had.  Wed. she was OK./

It is feeling spring-like but we know it is only Jan & we can expect more cold weather.  We are enjoying it while it is here.

The young couple across the st. have finally moved in.  It is nice to see lights over there again.  The little house is still empty & not much work is being done on it.

Dale got the replacement lock & put it in, so now we won't have that noise when the doors lock.

We've been watching some good movies on TMC.  Don't recall all the titles but enjoyed Now Voyager a lot.  Think it starred Bette Davis.  Sunset Boulevard was on but I couldn't get interested in it, but Barb enjoyed it.  I did look to see Gloria Swanson for a bit.

Fri A.M. the 13!  The other nite I watched the end of Wi. at Minn. basketball & it was an exciting finish with a win for Wi.

Hope to mail this at the Mall this aft.  One more nice day -- will winter return?  I like it how it is now.

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

Sun. I called Warren & Anna to say I wouldn't be going to Jamestown with them on Mon.  So Warren suggested having lunch in Wrrn.  He cracked the plate of his "uppers" (teeth) & had to see the dentists.  They picked me up at 11 A.M. & we went to Holiday Inn.  They have been refurbishing it -- building & menu.  We had a really nice lunch.  He hate a 1:30 appt to see the Dr.  Could it be repaired or would he need a new one.  If a new one, they might be back this coming week to pick them up.  It was fun to be together again -- they are good friends.  I had my last appt. with Dr. Vance.  It is much better but there is still soreness.

Dale had to go to a 1 day session close to Pittsburgh for schooling.  He left at 56:30 A.M.l or so & he should be home by 7 pm.  I have a crockpot meal for supper.  It is a cold but clear day so that's good.

Warren & Anna got a $380.00 gas bill for Dec.  They have a house built in 1957 & it has its cold spots.  Warren said he paid 40,000 for it 10 yrs ago.  What would he get for it now -- I said double?  No, he said $30,000 as there are 200 houses for sale in Ridgway.  We are reaping the results of Dad's hard work in replacing all the windows, 2 doors, some insulation, etc.

Too bad I didn't know you'd like a couple of Fox network Christmas tree ornaments.  I could have ordered a couple lfor you!!!!

Warren was telling about one of the pastor couples that used to get together with us.  The wife has been in the Kane Luth. Home for a couple of years with Alzheimer's.  Now she can't swallow & just lies there.  He grew up in Wrrn.  Sig Decker.  Warren preaches at a small church but like a Sun. off now & then & Sig used to help.  Now he tells Warren he can't think & can't prepare a sermon.  Has lost weight, etc.  Also said he has trouble figuring his check book.  Warren feels he has just given up & is concerned.  That is so sad.

Heard from Millie.  Sh e has a small tree & has decorated her apt.  Heard from Larry & Debbie.  Christmas Eve they'll be at Linda's & on Christmas Day they'll go to Allan's.  Millie is so happy at the retirement home & they have a lot going on there & she sees more of Linda & Larry's family.

I have the Weather Channel on & we could be getting a big storm. What a Dec. we've had so far.  Sure glad Dale didn't have to go to school on Thursday, & that today is a better travel day.

Thurs. the 15th.

Barb mailed the rest of my Christmas cards today & Ed's birthday cards.  Hope he gets them on time.  Kept forgetting to get Dale to sign his.

I've started our dinner -- pork tenderloin.  I'm trying a new veggie recipe -- creamed spinach taken from last Sat. paper.  Or was it Sun.  Barb tho't it looked good.  Pumpkin pie for dessert.

My day's duties are over & I'm watching Court TV.  Dale will go out & shovel the walks.

I have a couple more gifts to wrap but I need to go up in teh attic to find some boxes first & it's been too cold.  I'm glad I'm almost thru.  Then it is to decide what to have on Christmas Eve.  If I'm lazy I could order prime rib with baked potatoes, green bean casserole & rolls at BiLo.  No work for me except for salad & dessert.  Christmas Day I'll probably have a turkey breast & trimmings.  I'll have to make Danish -- 2 recipes -- for Dale for their pot luck at work. That is next week.  Can Christmas be that close.  Thurs. I have to have cookies for Barb to give to Lynn & family.  Th ink I'll make Russian Tea Cakes tomorrow.  The others on Wed. next week.  3 kinds.

When Dale went to school yesterday, Shults provides the car.  The small Subura & he didn't like it at all. Said it was uncomfortable & hard on his legs.  One the open road he used cruise control & then he could move his leg around.  They got a $106.00 bonus from Shults. Some expected more but there isn't a lot of profit in new cars -- more on used cars.  It's not really a bonus but profit sharing.  I think it includes all the agencies they have & the one in Warren does the best.

Kim has charge card with City bank & they said she missed a payment & charged her $40.00 int.  Even the bank called & said her check was cashed but they can't take their word.  They want proof & that takes time.  She has to fax the cancelled check before they'll change it.  Andy they werent' very cordial when called.

Sunday, November 20, 2005

Some good news to start this letter.  Patty Welsh Phillips is engaged.  I haven't met him but he is in church with her every Sun. U& he seems like a nice fellow.  I'm happy for Patty.

This is Frank's last day at the former Dunham home.  They sign papers tomorrow.  It went for $110,000.  They had to come down according to Gustafson's up the st.  So there will be little children on our block again.

I'm watching Pittsburgh lose to Baltimore & it is not a happy situation.

Barb & Dale went across the st. yesterday aft. to say goodby to Frank.  He said to Barb "Don't wash all the paint off the car" -- she was washing the van.  Bad weather is expected the middle of the week, so Dale has the Monte Carlo ready to put away for the winter & has taken the Blazer out.  He thinks we should get new tires for the van for winter driving -- he will look into it.

Nancy Bloom Davis is now a grandmother.  The oldest, a daughter Amy had a baby girl. Nancy went for a week to be with her in N. Carolina.  First grandchild for both sides of the couple.  So Irene Bloom is a great grandma.

Had a card from Millie.  She & Linda will go to Allan's for Thanksgiving & hope to see Gen sometime during the weekend.

Yesterday Larry called & said Kim will make 2 pies for Thanksgiving.  I used to order pecans from Texas & they always send info on prices, etc.  They had a recipe for Caramel Pecan Pie that sounds delicious.  You use brown sugar & milk, 1/2 c. B. sugar til it bubbles.  Then make a cream filling using 1/2 c. B sugar, milk, cornstarch, etc.  After it thickens you add egg yolks, & the melted B. sugar.  Meringue on top.  Sound luscious but sweet.  Maybe I'll try it.  You also add coarsely chopped pecans.  It said after the dessert your guests will be so sated & tired they'll heard for the nearest bed & leave you in peace!

Barb has all but 1 of her gifts wrapped.  I started wrapping yesterday.  We'll get the pkg. out in time for JoAnna's birthday.  By UPS.

My faith is restored -- Pitts. just tied the score 13-13.  5 min. left to play.  Other 2 QB injured & Maddox hasn't played that much.

Thanksgiving Day

We'll eat at 5 pm & the turkey smells so good.  All is ready or just about.  Green bean casserole & mashed sweet pots. ready to go into the oven -- about 4:15.  I made broth using turkey gravy broth wings.  Where is my mind -- on TV football game -- & have gravy made. Might add a few pan drippings to it.  Have to peel pot, etc. & finish the fruit salad by adding apples & bananas.  When we eat late it 's not so much of a rush.

We've had snow -- enough for Dale to shovel.  When I got up this A.M., the Weather Channel said 30 for Jamestown.  Now it's in the low 20's.  The snow has stopped but more is predicted.

Paul you'll have to get your scarf yourself.  We looked in Warren & Jtown & no light colors. All dark colors & not too many of them.

I miss not making a pumpkin pie but I'll make one for the weekend.

Poor Detroit they can't catch a pass.

The Mets got Carlos Delgado & lost an up & coming 1st baseman in the trade.  Wonder if they'll get the Boston outfielder -- the one with the big ego.

Finally there was an obit for Max & it was a very nice one.  She was well liked & loved & will be missed.  She didn't know how to pick her men.

Fri A.M.

I got a haircut this A.M. & it's nice not to have  it not hanging on my neck.

It was cold this A.M. -- in the teens & I needed to wear boots, mittens, heavy jacket.

Our thanksgiving dinner was very nice.  The food was good & we enjoyed each other's company.  Torey has to have an operation.  I think they noticed blood in one car, took him to the vet as one ear had blood in it.  They'll cut the length of his ear to remove the blood.  He will go under.  First he had to have a complete check-up, including a urine sample to see if he can take it.  Heart, etc.  First call cost $96.00 & the operation will be a lot more.  That's their baby.  Kim hoped it would happen today but for sure on Mon.

Dale doesn't come home for lunch today -- doesn't want to lose his parking spot.  I make him turkey sandwiches but forgot to include the yogurt he has each lunch day.

Saturday, October 22, 2005

It's a damp, sometimes rainy Sat.  I'm not baking today -- have banana bread in the freezer.

They (Russell school) are taking down the newer playground equipment at Jefferson School. It is a big project & several men are there.  I'm sure it is a time free job by PTA volunteers.

I copies 2 recipes from Bon Appetit.  One a choc. cake & frosting that sounds delicious. The other Schmaltz balls for thickening gravy.  Don't' know if I'll have the chicken fat to make them.  Article by Alton Brown from the Food Channel & fun to watch if you can take his humor.  Sometimes I can't.  Dale watches it at times.

Watching Baseball Tonight on ESPN last nite, 3 of the 4 announcers pick the White Sox to win. One stock with the Astros.  I'm having a hard time deciding.  I'm an N.L. booster but -- ! One has to lose.

This past week I've been up at 5 AM.  Work up this A.M. at 5 AM, went to the bathroom & back to sleep til after 7 A.M.  It's a lazy day for me & that is why I started a letter.

Barb is still in her p.j.'s on the laptop.  Dale slept in & is taking it easy.  He got what he needed to automatically open the car doors so we should so be able to use the keys for that.

Yesterday we went to Jamestown.  Ate lunch at Red Lobster.  Did some shopping.  Found a top I liked.  Tried it on & bought it.  A Kathy Daniels red zippered top with a black scroll design stitched on.  The "stitched" should have gone before "scroll" -- or something like that.

Later.  We're watching the Wi-Purdue game.  As of the half they are tied.  Go Wisconsin!

I'm making "Almost Homemade Chicken Soup' using canned chicken broth, veggies & noodles & of course cubed chicken.  Barb wondered if I made a pie.  Tho't of it but we have leftover apple crisp to finish.  Next time I'll plan a soup & pie supper.

Wed, 8 A.M.

I'll write some more before I get dressed.  Last Sun. as I made my bed I turned the wrong way & felt a twinge in my back.  I've applied heat & exercise.  It's not bad enough to go to the chiropractor, but it is a little bothersome.

Millie called to tell me that John, Fe (Fay) & Gen went to see Millie last Sun. They gave her a wedding invitation, 3 pages telling about sponsors, attendants, etc.  Done in pink & white. Her father is dead & was mayor of their city.  Mother an M.D.  Large group of attendants. Following the ceremony the reception & it said dance, dance, dance so it must be an all nite affair.  John & Fe leave tomorrow the 27th & it's a 24 ur trip.  Gen thinks John is going on vacation.  Gen doesn't believe John is her son.  Millie can see how that can happen because he is so much like Ed.  And when he called me, he sounded like Ed.  They also went to Larry's cottage & Gen told Larry she planned to divorce Ed.

Sun. in church the pastor announced Rose Seeley's family wished members would visit Rose, esp. old friends.  That hit home as I've tho't I should visit Rose but haven't.  But I will. She is at the home on Water St. so I can walk over there.  But it's been a rainy week so I'll wait for a nicer day but I have to do this.  No more putting it off.

John is either 41 or will be in Nov.  That means my mother died 41 years ago.  She died in Jan & John was born in Nov.  Millie figures Fe is in her middle 30s.  She is an emergency room nurse.  Works 4 10 hr. days & has 3 days off.

I made lasagna last nite, using "no cook" noodles & it was very good.  Veggie lasagna with spinach.  When I had to cook the noodles they would always split on me & I didn't like that.

Better get going.

Thurs nite.

My back is OK & I'm thankful for that.

I was sorry that the Astros couldn't even win one game, but it is nice the White Sox finally won a World Series.  I didn't think it was a very interesting World Series.

Have you noticed how well Penn State & the Steelers are doing.  I guess "Papa Joe" as he is affectionately called still has "it" along with the help of a few good freshmen.  He doesn't usually use freshman.  I'm sure Cyndi is happy.  Is that how she spells her name.  Seems to be it was a different spelling.  We're hoping that we see the sun soon. Maybe this weekend.

Barb finished her puzzle & I started one.  A winter scene.  Barb's was a hard one.

Tuesday, August 2, 2005

Larry gave himself a "buzz" haircut.  He likes it -- easy to wash & easy to comb, meaning he doesn't have to comb it.

The bridge is opened but not completely finished.  The sidewalks have to be finished.  We haven't driven over it yet --I don't' go to the Dr. until Oct.

Last Fri. we went to Jamestown.  I only got groceries at Wegman's.

This A.M. I was ambitious.  Washed the counters, moving everything.  Washed the windows, even tried to do the outside but didn't do a good job.  I'm getting too old to climb by the sink & try to get the outside & not get it streaked.  Afraid I'll fall.  Anyway when Barb came downstairs my work inspired her to start cleaning the kitchen. She washed the walls by the sink & the cupboard woodwork.  Cleaned the lower cupboards & they look nice.  She's cleaning in sections as she went to Lynn's in the aft.

When I read your letter about the dinner -- I had to look in the dictionary to see what kind of sauce you had with the lamb.  I found out it is made with egg yolks, lemon, rice & chicken broth.  I thought I had memorized the spelling but I can't recall how it starts.

Gen called me last Fri.  Ed built a little place for swimmer to change.  Gen said 2 girls are sleeping there & won't leave & she didn't know what to do.  I was sure that wasn't true & I told her to lock the doors & forget about it.  Called Millie on Sat.  She said when she lived in Spfld. a neighbor had Alzheimer's & she was always saying someone is in her garage.  Gen also says Ed isn't dead -- he has a girlfriend.  Millie thinks Gen thinks John is Ed, because she never talks about John.  Just says the boys help her.

Larry & Kim had a busy weekend last Fri-Sun.  On Fri they went to a wedding in the Pittsburgh area -- a former student.  Sat. & Sun. they went to Niagara on the Lake with another couple who are older.  We'll hear about their weekend on Thurs.  Niagara on the Lake is near St. Catherine, Canada.

Our pastor is back.  Elaine Jacobson Crandall, Barb's age, was the "grandma" to be in charge of the baby.  Different ones will help out during the service.  Elaine's oldest daughter is expecting so she will get getting some practice.

Last weekend Sheila (hair) & her husband were going to Pittsburgh for the weekend.  One nite they were going on a 3 hr. cruise featuring a fish buffet -- all kinds of fish.  Sounds interesting.

Last nite there wasn't much on TV so I turned to TCM & there was a good movie:  Key Largo with Lauren Bacall, Claire Trevor, Humphrey Bogart, Ed. G. Robinson & Lionel Barrymore.  It meant I had to stay up longer but I couldn't leave it.  It was so good.  And all those stars.  It was great.


Thurs the 4th

I was up at 5AM -- you say "why when she is retired & could sleep in?"  I wanted to get a carrot cake in the oven & pot. salad made before it got too hot.  I don't turn on the AC til later.  I open the doors & windows to cool off & put the dining room fan on.  Then I got dressed, etc., watered the plants, rose bushes, pot & all.  Decided to pick some ripe blueberries off our bush & now I'm resting.  Soon I'll have a cup of coffee & sample the carrot cake.  We're having steaks, pot. salad, green beans, & broccoli salad & carrot cake for our Thurs nite dinner.  Barb does the grilling & the rest of the meal is in the fridge.  Just the beans to fix.  I'll sit in my chair & watch my favorite TV programs.

The last week of July there was Vacation Bible School.  The last Sun. of July some of the children sang the new song in church & 2 older ones had the sermon on the Bible verses used.  Denise Johnson Windlow's oldest daughter had a part & she speaks so well, loud enough & with expression.  Will be a soph. at Wrrn. Hi.  She has lectored & does a great job.  Nice to see the youth take a part in the service.

I paid the tax bill on the house & also the insurance on the house.  Also in Aug. I play for the newspaper for a year plus a tip for the paperboy.  And I still have money in my checking acct.  I'm very fortunate.

Saturday, July 23, 2005

How was the bike ride.  Did you have sore butts?

Welcome to the club.  What club?  Why the club that makes parents anxious when their kids aren't home by curfew time!  I went thru that a few times!

When I got my Verizon telephone bill there was a charge of 40.00 for 2 min.  I called to find out & it had something to do with Dale's computer.  Someone got into it, or something.  Dale will pay the 40.00.  But I ended up getting Verizon online.  199.99 for 3 months, then $29.99. Computer comes on faster & one will be able to use the telephone etc. when Dale uses his computer, email, etc.  They will also block 900 numbers.  I don't know if I'm an easy mark but you can opt out of it after 3 months.  Barb is happy to have it.  What's one more bill. Ha!ha!  Dale says he has service thru a local co.  He has an email number but has never used it.  Thurs. nite Lar tried to show him how it works but he didn't succeed.

Bert left today for Atlanta.  She kept wondering why but she really can't be alone.  Barb is only suppose to be there 2-3 hours, 5 days a week.  Barb is kind of glad to have some time off.  She's riding her bike now, & Dale is lying in the sun.  I'm watching Seattle at Cleveland. The Mets aren't on this aft.  Will be on Sun. aft.  Barbs wants to go to Chapman's Dam.

You'll notice from the paper that the new bridge opens Aug 1st.  And work is suppose to start on the Walmart - Lowe's stores in N. Warren.  Some dispute about water run off might stall it.

I think the Chicago White Sox are the best team & could go all the way, even winning the World Series.  Not a good thing from a Nat. leaguer fan!

I've had to change my seat when watching TV, so I can see the print.  When I'm closer I can tell what is going on.  Probably should have my eyes examined again but I see OK otherwise.  It's a little over a year since I had an eye exam.

Millie sent pictures of her 90's birthday.  Allan & Larry have changed so much.  Heavier. Millie wrote Larry is after Debbie to watch her weight, but it's OK for him to have a tummy. Barb said it is nice to see pictures of cousins we never see.  There were pictures of the wives, Linda who looks very good, & Larry & Debbie's 3 children.  I've never met Allan's wife Liane.

USA Today had an interesting article about the rookie QB for Buffalo.  It was very interesting. He was at Jim Kelly's football camp for boys - spent a day there -- & the kids loved him. "Played" football with them & praised the young boy if he caught a pass.   That part was on a Buff. Bills TV program & you could see the adulation on the faces of the boys.  Hope he does as well as the Pittsburgh QB did last year in his rookie year.  It will be fun to see football again.  Shows how fast the time goes.

The Mets were on last nite & in the beginning have signed a 16 year old they expect to be a great player.  He can't start til he's 17.  And they have another future player, a 6'5" pitcher from Venezuela.  Barb said I'll have to take good care of myself so I can see them play. They have an excellent s.s & 3rd base players -- young ones.  So there is hope for the future.

Mon A.M. the 25th

Last Sat. we had another 900 call from Nova Scotia, & it scared me.  Didn't answer.  This A.M. Barb called Verizon about it.  I guess they don't block phone calls, only computer calls. Anyway they call it Modem Hijacking & said they won't pay the bill.  It might be too late to take it out.  If so, it will appear on the Aug. bill.  I have the bill deducted from by bank acct.  I'm glad Barb called as some of this goes over my head.  Now I'll give Dale back his $40.00.

We finally had some rain during the nite, but I slept thru it.  Barb said it filled the plastic water barrel 1/2 full.  We could use more rain.

This will be another A.C. day.  It's not already.  Lot my 3rd load of laundry in the washer. Barb is riding her bike.

Wed. A.M. the 26th

We had a big storm last nite & filled the rain barrel.  I haven't done much this A.M., except clean the bathroom.  We can't go to the Mall this A.M. as we are hemmed in by trucks. The gas co. has started work on replacing the lines, & putting the meter outside.  They had to drill thru the basement wall & it has been noisy.  Now they are out front.

We have "egg on our face" as they started with Cary's house Tues. & had to dig thru where the rhododendrons were planted.  That's why the neighbor has done nothing with it.

We've had 2 small tomatoes from the garden & we should have a good crop if they all ripen. Some big ones.  Barb has given beans to the neighbors (Conaway house) -- can't remember how to spell their names & too lazy to get up.  Also Lar & Kim have received some & we've eaten a lot of them.

I iguess the Mets like "home cooking" because they have a hard time winning on the road.

Dale likes sunflower plants & we planted them from seed.  Now they are 6' high.  There are 5 of them.

Yesterday I watched 3 movies from TCM -- in black & white & enjoyed them.  If you think that's all I did you could be right.  I did change my bed, washed a load & made meals.  And I washed the floor!  Spots came too fast to suit me.

Later.  Barb & Dale aren't too pleased with the new gas meter & will talk to Larry to see how they could cover it.  I think they are thru on our property but the final hook up won't be til next week.

Barb is now on the Internet.  She finally got it all together.

It seems to me, when you lived awhile with Gen & Ed, you stayed out late & Ed went looking after you.  Something your parents never did!

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

Glad to hear that the party was a success but I expected you to say something about the Gov.  Maybe he couldn't make it due to a last minute appointment.

This aft. I got a perm & did I ever need one.  I can't go 3 months because my hair grows too fast.  It feels so much better now.

Last Fri. nite & Sat. Barb housecleaned her bedroom.  She has started in the little room. Plans to clean the house this summer.  I didn't take all my stuff when we changed rooms.  I have your "baby book" & a couple of letters & that picture someone drew of you.  Barb likes it & thinks you should have it.

I'm watching the Yankees at Texas.  Texas has really improved & I hope they can beat the Yankees.  Texas 1-0 so far.  Just 1st inning.

Our hot weather continues but a cool wave is suppose to come Wed & Thurs.  I hope so as I need to make some dinner rolls.

Bert's niece & daughter are still here.  Tina wants to take Bert back to Atlanta with her.  Bert said she didn't want to go but Tina won't take no for an answer.  Bert said yes but now she doesn't want to go.

There was an interesting article in the Buff. paper about the libraries in the area.  Will send it to you so you can see what is going on.

We had some rain on Sat. so that helped.  It filled the water barrel we have to collect the rain.  But most lawns are brown.

Kim says her golf isn't that good so I won't see her name in the paper with results of Tuesday A.M. play.  Last year I saw it a couple of times.

Tues the 19th

Last Fri on our way to CVS I said to Barb "That looks like Jack Carey."  We parked the car & talked to him.  They were here to go to the dentist.  They were staying with  friend.  Mary Ann was in CVS & we found her & talked.  They had lunch with Bonace's so they saw their old house.  Were disappointed the rhododendrons were gone & not replaced.  Bonaces also said they aren't friendly neighbors.  They are in Buffalo for the summer, Fla, in the winter. She showed us pictures of Lisa's 2 girls, Susan's girl & Paula's 2 sons.  The one they adopted from Russia is 3 & a blondie & the baby boy is 17 months.  Mary Ann misses Warren but is happy to be close to 3 of the grandchildren.  Susan lives in Buff. now.  It was good to talk to them again.  They were good neighbors.

Now Bert is going to Atlanta -- they leave Sat.

Late -- Less humid weather has arrived.  This is Dale's late Tues. so I set the dinner rolls & put them in the fridge overnite.  The first thing in the A.M., after breakfast, I can form them. That way I can get thru using the oven earlier.

Thurs.  Had a letter from Millie & pictures of her 90th birthday & pictures of the family.  Allan & Larry have changed so much.  Pictures of Larry's children.

Tuesday, May 5, 2005

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thurs. May 4

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

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

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

It warmed up today & was so nice.

Lar tilled the garden for Barb.

Will enclose John's letter & a picture.

Sunday, April 20, 2005

Another Sun. & another Mets game on TV.  They are really hot after 5 losses.  Full house yesterday when Pedro M. pitched.  Hope they keep it up.

Our nice weather continues.  I washed & pressed a dress I've had for ages -- when Dad was living -- but it was too big.  So I wore another dress that is at least 3 yrs. old.  When Barb saw it, she said "where did you get that dress."  She was with me when I bo't it.  It is dressier & I don't wear it that much.  I've looked for a new dress but ones for old ladies are hard to find.

When I get my hair done Sheila & I talk about our families.  I said Millie would be 90 & she wondered if he hair was white.  I took the picture Millie sent to show her.  Sue, the other gal, was doing one customer & her next lady was there.  Sheila couldn't believe she is 90 & neither could the other 3.

Fri. we went to the Mall & I was looking for a top to go with  skirt I got a couple of years ago in Erie.  The skirt has a light tan background with various shades of lilac & deep red.  I like the skirt a lot but haven't found a top to go with it.  I'm looking for a light lilac & Barb found one.  Very pretty but too dressy.  I bo't it regardless as it will go with slacks.  Also on sale. I'll look for a cotton knit.  We might go to Jamestown this coming Fri.

The grade schools that will be closed are having open house for former students.  Jefferson had theirs last Fri from 3:30-8:30 pm.  They had a live D.J. playing music & all we could hear was the boom, boom, boom! Barb was beside herself.  Sat. she went up to Lynn's as she had forgotten something &U told Lynn about it.  She didn't get any sympathy as Lynn had her own story.  The Sat. before the boys were riding their motorcycles (Scott has one) behind their house.  It was noisy U& another house had loud music.  Lynn said she would have called the police, only her son was one of them.

She also heard that Anne Smith has osteoporosis (can't find the spelling in my small dictionary) & when she was in a store in Syracuse she fell &  broke her hip.  After the operation she was in a wheelchair, now she's using a walker.  Tough to have that happen away from home.

I'm "jelling".  Got some shoe inserts & they are wonderful.

I told Barb your favorite movie of all time is "North by Northwest".  She got that at the library & enjoyed it.  She watched it several time.  It's one of her favorites.

Mon the 21 of April

I got a perm this aft & I really needed one.  It was getting long & no curl.  We usually get groceries on Mon. so Barb said we could get them later.  She didn't get home early so I fixed leftovers.  Last Sat. I made a penne casserole (like lasagna) & I've learned how to make so it taste good.  I make the 12 x 9 dish so there are leftovers.  An easy meal & no one objected. Then we got groceries & it wasn't as busy.

Now I'm watching the Braves at Houston.  Last night I watched the Braves at Philly.  After 9 innings it was 0-0 & I went to bed.  This is Dale's early week.  I was pleased to see Philly won 2-1 in the 11th.  The paper also mentioned that "George" is steaming because the Yankees are 4-8 as of this A.M.  He thinks the players are better than that.  But some of them are showing their age.  Having the Mets filling Shea Stadium twice doesn't help & maybe he wishes he had gotten Pedro M.  Some young guys are showing promise.

Sheila was telling me today that her husband's folks have a camp in the Tidioute area.  It was broken into & damaged.  Broken glass -- damage to everything they could break.  They left no beer to be taken but there was a little liquor.  It can be seen from the road & there is a house close by.  The lady never locked her doors but now she does.  It scared her.

Dale mowed the lawn tonite.  The seeds Barb started have started to sprout.  Even you can see a little green coming on the trees.  A nice time of the year.

I finally memorized the Nicene Creed.

Tues. the 19th

This A.M. I had a blood test.  Came home & made my breakfast -- scrambled eggs, slice of apple bread & one of my rolls.  Made potato salad to go with hamburgers for supper tonite. Washed my kitchen rugs & hung them outside & they dried fast in our "summer weather". It will change & get colder by week end.  Washed the floor -- didn't want to put clean rugs on a dirty floor.  Then I quit & took it easy.

 I see the Catholic church has a new Pope.

Barb rode her bike today for the first time.  For her birthday Barb choose chicken from BiLo -- already baked.  Mashed pot, peas & carrots, fruit salad & blueberry pie.  Double crust.  I have frozen blueberries.   I made the pie crust this A.M. so my biggest job will be to make the pie.  Bert gets these chicken often & Barb wanted to try them & I didn't object.

There are 4 candidates for judge.  3 men & a woman.  Sheila talks to her customers (for lack of a better word as she has both men & women) & asks them about those running.  One is a woman that many favor.  They say she is very fair & has experience with women & children. So I guess I'll vote for her in May.

The gas co. will be putting a new line in on 3rd Ave.  The fellow came for the owner's signature. In our case all 4 of you.  You probably have received a call by now.  It will go thru our lawn -=- about a foot from the sidewalk & they will be responsible if anything goes wrong.

Thurs.  Barb had a nice birthday dinner.  The chicken from BiLo was delicious.  Torey enjoyed it too.  As soon as he came in the house he smelled it.  I reheated it in the oven. The blueberry pie was delicious.  The crust around the edge was a little too thick.  I didn't roll it thin enough. It was just the right texture.   I used 1/4 c. tapioca & 1 T. cornstarch with 4 c. of frozen blueberries.  I plan to make another blueberry pie sometime.

Larry has started his "2nd job" & keeps busy.  He has a good following.  Torey doesn't like the new truck.  He can't get into it -- Lar has to lift him up into it.

Last Sun. our pastor said "it looks like spring has arrived."  Wonder what she'll say this Sun when it's in the 40's & a chance of snow flurries.

Think I've covered our happenings.  One more birthday to go.  Lar's & he wants steak & carrot cake.  We still get the L. L. Bean catalog & Lar saw a shirt he liked.

Tuesday, April 12, 2005

This A.M. I got my ironing done.  Then I dusted downstairs & washed the living room windows, inside & out.  The easiest windows to wash.  Now they shine.

Got a call from Millie at noon.  I told you I got her earrings & a necklace & she called to thank me.  I'm the only one of the 4 girls to have pierced ears.  I like to live dangerously!  She told me about the outfit she will wear for her birthday dinner.  She  will look real nice all dressed up.  She likes clothes & knows how to look nice, even at 90.  She still tires easily but is feeling much better.

I'm glad Ed did well at the geography bee.  You mentioned where you ate, at "Ella's Deli", a place for young children.  And you wrote "based on this visit, I think it will be another 7 or 8 years before we return."  My question is this.  "Will that be when you are grandparents & taking the "babies" there?  You left yourself open for that one.  Andy will be out of college by then & Ed in college.  Old enough to be married.  I better quit while I'm ahead!  I couldn't help myself!

Dale told me he really liked the German choc. cake I made for his birthday.  That's nice to know & I'll make one again.

Barb has started flowers & veggies from seeds.  She puts them out each day & because the nights are cold, she puts them in the garage overnite.   Seeds aren't cheap but we spend more if we have to buy the flowers later on.  I hope she is successful.

Dale liked the shirt & pants I gave him. Kim asked if we were going out to eat for the birthdays.  Nothing was planned yet, but we will go out to eat.

We went to the library last Fri & I got 4 books.  "Plain Jane" by Fern Michaels & I enjoyed it a lot.  3 new authors, 2 of which are authors I read about in the newspaper concerning mystery authors.  The other I found in the Oldie & Goodie section.  Diana Palmer's "Renegade" & I liked it.  Started Barbara Neely's "Blanche Cleans Up".  I started it but it was taking so long to get to the point I gave up.  And not because she is a black author.  Just couldn't get into it.  The last was wacky but I finished it.  "Maggody in Manhattan" by Joan Hess.  Don't think I'll get any others of hers.

Wed. the 13th

Can't remember if I've asked this but it's been in my mind.  Has Andy applied for a summer job?  Can he work at the same job as last summer?

I smiled to myself when you said you stayed up til Andy came home.  The only times I couldn't sleep was when Dale went out & didn't get home til the early morning hours.  I'd go to bed but found it hard to sleep until I heard his car drive in.  Then all was OK until the next time.  Thank goodness those days are gone forever.

Tomorrow I'm making a strawberry rhubarb pie.  Found some frozen rhubarb.  It's Larry's favorite.  I really like the recipe that uses eggs so it's more of a creamy filling.  Next time I'll make it how I like it.  Found a recipe for rhubarb apple pie & that sounded good.

I've been watching D.C. at the Braves & I love it.  The Braves are losing -- 2 outs in the 9th. Braves mgr. got thrown out in the 1st inning.  They got whipped 11-4.

I've been lazy today -- not doing much.  Guess that's not too unusual.  I'm a lazy old lady & I don't push myself.

Fri A.M.

I'm set to get my hair done but it's too early to go.

My strawberry rhubarb pie was OK.  The sugar & flower mixture didn't melt & that spoiled it. It tasted good.  I'm not sure if I'll try it again.

You get the news from the paper but the Conewango Motel has been sold & will open by summer.  I hope it will be successful.

Things dry out fast.  They now have a county wide burning ban.

The closing grade schools will have an open house so past students can have a last look. Dale said he still remembers what it looks like.

We love our beautiful spring weather.

Friday, April 1, 2005

I'm starting early this week -- I have something to write about.

Millie's birthday is Apr. 17 & she will be 90.  I think it would be nice for you to send her a card.

We went to the Mall today & I was successful.  Seeing Millie will be 90, I want to get her a gift.  I got pearl earrings with gold trim & a necklace.  It has a small pearl bead, a 1 1/2" of gold chain.  Tried them on & I like them a lot & I'm sure she will.  Then I got Dale a darker tan pants & a nice shirt to go with them.  It is a flax & cotton materiel (light green).  All purchases on sale plus 15% coupon.

Last nite Barb was showing Kim the swim suit she wants from the L.L. Bean catalog.  Lar said there's a shirt I like & I was glad to know that.  Barb called the order in so my shopping is just about complete.

Then I stopped at Arby's for our supper.  2 for Dale & 1 for me.  Barb doesn't eat them.  I'm fixing oven fries for Dale & a salad.  He was late coming home so I ate early.  Still have the dishes to do.

I sure enjoy the pictures you add to your letters.  It's surprising how much houses are getting in your area.  And they are small.  How do people do it.  I've heard about the Macaroni Grill but I don't think there are any around here.

Sat. A.M. Apr 2

I've had a busy A.M.  After reading the paper I made choc. chip, peanut butter & oats dough. Put it in the fridge & started banana bread.  While it was baking I washed dishes, then went upstairs to get dressed & make my bed.  When the ban. bread was almost done, I put the cookie dough on baking sheets.  Made only 1/2 recipe, about 2 doz.  I don't like them after 2 days & Barb & Dale don't think to eat them altho they are in plain sight.  Then I tho't a pumpkin pie would taste good.  After I cleaned up, a cup of coffee & 2 cookies tasted good.

Barb is up & making blueberry pancakes for her breakfast.

Barb's treadmill sounded funny to her eats so a repair man from Sears came yesterday aft. He said nothing was wrong.  He calibrated it, etc.  Barb wanted it looked at while under warranty.

In Wegman's Sat. ads they have a recipe that sounds interesting to me.  Chicken Parmasan with broccoli.  Brown chicken.  Put in dish.  Drizzle with marinara sauce & sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.  Bake in 350 oven 10 min til cheese melts & sauce is heated.  Serve with penne pasta & broccoli florets.  Cook them & then combine olive oil, butter & garlic. Heat on low to melt butter.  Cook garlic 1 min stirring.  Add broc & cooked pasta.  Keep warm while preparing chicken.  I'll try it on a Thurs. nite when Lar & Kim come.  It will be a change from potatoes.  I might even use garlic, keeping some broc. & pasta out for me. Others like garlic.

Later in the aft.  Had myself a little nap.

Have to catch up because we lose an hour tonite.  DST.

Baseball starts this week & there will be many games to watch thanks to ESPN & II.  I'm ready to watch.

I have the same feeling that it would be nice to be closer so we could get together more often.  But that's life.

Was going to watch Busch racing but it's raining in Bristol, Tenn.  Then gold will be on & they've missed 2 days because of rain.  Today is suppose to be very windy.  Next week is the big one, The Masters, in Atlanta.  It is a beautiful golf course.

Sun. pm

Dale looked out the window & said "it's insanity", meaning the snow coming down.  Erie has 12" of snow & some areas have no electricity.  Heavy snow on the lines.

I wore boots this AM as I walked to church & was surprised to see more people in church than I thought would be there.  Buffalo area has a foot of snow.

Barb wonders if you'll see the movie "The Upside of Anger" with Kevin Costner.  She read a review of it & knows Kevin C. is one of JoAnna's favorites.  A good review.

Dale had a headache on Sat.  I woke up at 2:30 AM to go to the bathroom & noticed the hall light was still on.  I had to check & found Dale on the davenport holding a bag of ice on his head.  Now I could go back to bed & sleep, altho it took awhile to fall asleep.  A mother is always or should I say parent, is always concerned for their children regardless of age. What I don't know doesn't hurt me, but with Barb & Dale at home I get concerned.  I don't like the word "worry".  It's not part of my vocabulary.

Tues. the 4th

Barb & I went to Jamestown this aft.  Barb got pj's & a birthday shirt for Dale.  I didn't get anything except groceries at Wegman's.  We'll celebrate Dale's birthday on Thurs. & he chose teak & choc. birthday cake.  I asked about potatoes & he said pot. salad would be OK.  We had baked pot. last week & mostly we have mashed pot. so I tho't a change would be good.

The Braves played at the Marlins this aft. & was I happy.  The Marlins were leading 9-0 the last I saw & it's over so I didn't get the final score.  Smoltz started & lasted 1 2/3 innings. They got a grand slam off of him in the 1st inning.  The Marlins are my 2nd team if the Mets fail.  Yesterday Pedro pitched so good after the 1st inning & had 11 strikeouts, I think.  But the closer gave up 2 home runs & they lost.  I was so disappointed.  The Mets are at Atlanta this Fri. nite.  Barb said I shouldn't be so happy when the Braves get beat because the Braves are Andy's team.  That doesn't count.  He has his team & I have mine & may the best team win.  They talked today how many division titles the Braves have won & of course I can't remember the number.  I think they only won the World Series once & that's the important one.

Wed. the 6th

Gen called last Sat.  She had called Millie & found out she had been in the hospital.  I called the first of the week & there was no answer.  I tried tonite & got her.  She has low thyroid & potassium & not enough salt.  She was back in the hosp & had intravenous feeding.  She is better now.  She wasn't taking her thyroid meds, & she said she learned her lesson.  She still has a poor appetite but it's improving.   I've taken potassium pills for a long time.  With some meds you need it as they can drain your system.  If the Dr. prescribes meds I take them.  He knows more than I do.  Millie will be OK for her birthday.  Due to conflicts the family won't celebrate it until the 30th.  There will be 14 of them to help her celebrate.  All 4 of us had or have thyroid problems.  Only mine is overactive.

Thurs. the 7th

We had a nice dinner & Dale enjoyed an early birthday.

John called tonite to tell us about Millie.  I told him I had talked to her last nite.  I heard he had a girlfriend so I asked about it.  Is it serious?  Is there a wedding in the future?  He didn't commit himself.  But they took a trip to Aruba so that sounds serious.  I told him I was happy for him.  He has a lot of responsibility on his plate with Gen.

I'm watching the Braves vs. the Marlins.  The Mets go to Atlanta tomorrow.  Sure hope they start winning.  A bad start for Willie Randolph.  He's a good guy.

They said we reached 80 yesterday.  Different today, but the next 5 days should be sunny.

Saturday, March 17, 2005

I have a red circle around Apr. 1 to remind me to think of Ed on that day.  We're rooting for him.

The Mets were on the NYC channel & they look good.  I just hope it continues into the season.

Our paper has had very little on the Erie mayor -- we hear about it on Erie TV.  Interesting it reached your papers.

They finished the digging (gas) by our driveway.  The spot near Conaway's driveway is still a hole.

I finally used my paper shredder.  One drawer needed to be cleaned out.  It is lighter now.  I keep my charge receipts in a shoe box & cleaned out papers as far back as '01.  Got 5 grocery bags full of shredded paper.  Lar took it to use with garbage.  He came by with my state tax.  All I owed was $11.00  Got it sent in.  He also took our wrapped newspapers.

Sheila & I were talking about desserts while getting my hair done.  She said this is easy & good.  Cut choc. cake into cubes.  Make choc. pudding.  Ina trifle bowl layer cake, pudding, cool whip (in layers).  Sprinkle with Heath toffee bits to finish.  Could use other flavors as well.  When I was looking thru dessert recipes I found a similar one using brownies, pudding mix, cool whip, & Heath bar chips.  Plan to try it sometime.  Recipes used van. pudding & milk to mix & then added 1/4 c. cold coffee.  I'm getting tired of pies for dessert.

Back to the Mets.  Galarraga is trying to make the Mets lineup.  He came up with 2 terrific plays & got 2 hits, one a home run.  He's in his early 40's.

We've had a lovely day today but rain is suppose to come in tonite.  Won't be nice tomorrow, Palm Sun.

I called Schwan's yesterday for chicken.  They don't have anyone in Warren now but will see about getting some for me.  They could sent it in dry ice but I don't want to pay postage on it.

Sun. the 20th

I have a new racing "hero".  The bad thing he drives a Ford.  He won the Busch Race yesterday &^ the NASCAR race at Atlanta today.  Carl Edwards. Barb said it's because of the name "Carl".  He just looks like a nice guy.

I finally called Schwan's to find out if I can get chicken.  They don't' have Warren covered but will see what they can do.  I ordered 2 boxes of chicken & if I get it, I hope I can keep getting it.  We are spoiled because their chicken is so good.

[In margin.  repeat!!!!  I'm losing it!]

We had steak for supper.  I marinated it in a sauce from the gal on the Italian program  (Food Channel.)(It was very good.  Barb usually grills the steak but she didn't want to so I said it will be done on the grill inside.  She said it was good.  The best steak I've had for awhile.

I can't imagine Charles trying to use any kind of tools.  Wonder if he ever finished the job.

I like the picture of Roger.  He will be 71 in July.

Kim said she tired chicken in the crock pot using cr. chicken soup & they liked the results.

Betty Casey was back in church today.  But she is retaining water in her body so her ankles, legs, etc. are swollen.

Talked to Marie Mathis today.  She was riding in a bus that picks up the elderly to shop, see the Dr., etc & met a lady from the Crary Home.  Marie said she spoke highly of Larry & Torey.  Torey visits her every day & that helped to adjust to living there.

Tues. the 22nd.

I'm set to wash the kitchen floor but I have to wait for Barb to eat & leave.

The gas men don't do a good job on finishing off the hold they dug.  They don't tamp it down & it sinks down several inches.  Now they are filling it again.  Dale gets disgusted at their work.  At work Dale is doing a transmission job on a gas co. truck.  I'm sure they want a good job done on their truck & they'll get with Dale doing the job.  And that's not just a mother's bias.

I watched Nanny 911 on Fox & I can't believe there are families so out of control.  Have you ever watched it?  The husband, at first, spent more time with his carrier pigeons than his family.  All 5 slept in one bed plus the dog.  The middle boy was afraid of going to the bathroom in the house & went outside the house -- he was "watering the plants".


Thurs. the 24th

Last nite was the last Wed. Lar & Kim come for dinner.  Next week it's back to Thursdays.  No school today or Fri.  They were to have Wed. off but it turned out to be a snow day.  So Kim & 2 of her friends went to play Bingo at the Moose Club.  One friend is a member.

It snowed last nite but it won't last.  Rain is in the forecast for Easter Sun.

We're going to the Mall this aft.

Will enclose our library's newsletter so you can see what happens here.  The paper will tell you about the steel beams for the bridge.  Lots going on in "downtown" Warren.

Heard from Millie & she said Johnny went to Aruba for 5 days.  He had someone to care for Gen.

Nothing special going on here.

Saturday, January 8, 2005

No baking today -- made banana bread on Thurs & froze it.  Just have to remember to take it out on Sun.

Dale works today & Barb is still in bed.  She has to go to Bert's (today).  She helps her when Bert takes a bath.  She missed 2 days this week.  Once because of a headache, they other bad roads & Bert told her to stay home.

I'll try to answer questions.  I hear from Larry & family because the last time I was home, or was it earlier, we went to their house for lunch.  It was earlier because the 4 girls went to visit.  Since then we've exchanged cards.  I didn't know Debbie before that as I didn't get to their wedding. David, as far as I know, is a chaplain in Mpls.  I only hear from Carole, Gerald, & Mimi.  I don't have Anita or Joyce's addresses.  Oh yes & Dick's  & he always writes a note.  He still does a little where he worked.  The name won't come to me.  And Charles & it's always late.

Larry starts soccer on Thurs. so they'll come on Wed. for awhile.  Kim can't come this week, as a group of gals get together on a Wed.  I have a beef roast in the freezer & will put it in the crock pot. Wed a.m.

My late New Year's resolution is making plans for Fri. nite meals.  When it comes to Fri, I don't want to make a meal.  Last nite (I have a calendar) I planned meals & I filled it up pretty much for Jan. meals.  This way I should have the needs on hand.  Hope I stick to it.  By this time I should realize I'm not eating out Fri. nites anymore.  One Fri. nite was vacant so I put pizza in there.  I tried calling for pizza last nite but it was always busy so I gave up & fixed leftovers.  Dale is pretty good to eat what I put before him & not complaining.

The puzzle I'm working on isn't going together very easily.  But I keep at it & there is no rush to finish it.  It teaches me patience.

Sheila's mother came home from the hosp. yesterday.  Getting help isn't easy & the 3 girls are at their wits end.  The mother probably won't be around long.  Sh e is full of cancer & it is very painful.  She ruled the roost & her husband doesn't know how to make meals.  It's not a easy time for the family.

To me & probably Millie the word pathetic means feeling sorry for the situation.  Gen was the smart one.  Before her marriage she was sec'y to the Bank pres.  Later she managed a lawyer's, I think it was a lawyer, but I'm not sure, office so she was very capable.  She used tl help count the offerings at church, but they had to tell Ed she couldn't help anymore so it's another sad situation.  How thankful I am for my health.

Barb is up now.  After she goes to Bert's we'll go to to the drug store for my meds & then to the Mall.  I have a list of things I need, plastic bags, etc.

Barb got a sale catalog from Woman's clothes.  I saw 2 tops I liked.  Barb ordered a jacket & they said if you order more, it will be 15% off so she remembered one top I wanted & got it, but forgot about the 2nd one.  So if I really want it, I'll have to get busy & order it.  (The order came -- my top was the wrong one -- she looked at the wrong top.  A reorder is needed.)

Mon. Jan. 10

Enjoyed reading your library report & a good one it is.  Dad was always glad when all the report for the annual mtg. were written up, including the ones he had to send to synod, with all the stats.  The church's new secy. came at a hard time with all the reports to type up & get them ready for the annual mtg, Jan. 23rd.  She also takes care of hte financial end of the church & that is a big job.

I know your appetite for "hot" foods changed after you left home & our bland foods.  But I make meals the way I was brought up & Carl had the same type of food.  On your own, all of you have "pepped up" your food.  Dale not so much being at home, but he likes it -- hot stuff that is.  When Barb makes chili, Dale has some, but not me. Too highly seasoned.

Really age is just a state of mind.  When you are 20 or 25  years older you'll look back & wish you were 55 again.  I look back & sometimes think it would be nice to be 60 again.  But I'm 84 & glad for each day I have.

Dale got a DVD recorder & has it installed.  He has the DVD player or whatever you call it.

Are you preparing the boys for when they are on their own by teaching them to make grilled cheese sandwiches?  You didn't learn your ability to prepare meals at home but in your jobs as short order cook.  Was it your Jr. year you started at the Chalet or was it 9th grade?  Then you perfected it in Calif.  It's a different world today & I know you'd never let Andy or Ed hitchhike today.  You hitchhiked, Lar & friends went off in a van for a year.   I'm sure it was a learning experience.  Barb joined the Navy, Dale stayed home except for a semester at the technical school in Columbus.  He doesn't cook, but he can do a lot of things around the house.  Even Lar has at times, fixed dinner in the crockpot after Kim tells him what to do.

Tues. the 11th

I finally made a pasta dish, other than spaghetti, that came out good.  I made rigatoni & added spinach to the egg, cheese, ricotta mixture & it was good.  A big pan so I'll freeze some single servings.  Barb didn't want what I fixed -- she had soup and grilled cheese.  She burned the first one so she had to start over.

I got a perm today & I like how it came out.

Thurs A.M.  My beef dinner, cooked in the crockpot (meat), was delicious.  Nice dark gravy over creamy mashed pots, &^ green bean casserole.  Ban. cream pie for dessert.

This A.M. we're going to Jamestown but Barb has to go to Bert's first.  I'll look for Valentine's & groceries at Wegman's.  We'll look around the Mall, of course!  I'll mail your letter.  COLD weather comes this weekend.  Today it's suppose to be in the 60's.  Then a drop of 30.  Suppose to rain today.  I hope it holds off.

Sunday January 2, 2005

Guess what our "divided" household is doing?  Watching the Steelers & the Bills & Dale & my team is ahead so far.  Barb keeps saying the Steelers don't have to win but they play to win.  Dale & I are happy.

Yesterday was beautiful weatherwise & the noisy motorcycles were out.  Dale washed his cars & took his white "summer" car to Jamestown.  He got a DVD for himself.

Wed. Barb & I went to Jamestown.  Didn't buy much.  We had lunch at Ruby Tuesday & I enjoyed my lunch of tender pot roast, mashed pots. & broccoli.  It was delicious.

Thurs. nite we went to Lar & Kim's & had a nice evening.  She served baked ziti & it was delicious.  We all like pasta.  Kim made a pecan pie & i made an apple pie.

Yesterday I started the New Year by making dinner rolls & a coffee cake.  After lunch I* took a short nap & then took the decorations off the tree -- the tree & all the decorations are put away for another year.  I like things back to normal.  Kim keeps the tree up longer as well as the decorations.

I mentioned that Elsie Yaegle will be 90 this month & they are planning a party for the 8th at church.   Today Betty told me Elsie had a slight stroke over the holidays.

Barb sent Millie & Gen a picture of the 3 of us.  So Millie sent pictures of her apt. & of herself.  Her place looks very nice.  I can see why she is happy there.

I'm working on the puzzle & it is a fun one to do.

Later -- I just clogged up the kitchen sink & made a job for Dale.  It could be a blessing in disguise as when Dale opened up the pipe, he found a plastic picnic knife there.  How it get there is beyond me -- guess I wasn't watching closely enough. He didn't get disgusted with me.

The Steelers beat Buffalo & I can't believe how "down in the dumps" Barb is.  She was so sure Buff. would win.  To make it worse, Dale & I are happy.

My puzzle is almost finished.  I'll try to finish it now.

Jan 4, Tues.

Thanks for the pictures -- they are good.  Noticed the watch strap on your arm.  Barb is so happy the boys like their pictures.  She showed them to Lynn & Marisa saw them & tho't they were cool.

Enjoyed reading the article on Green Bay, the team, etc.  Read parts of it to Dale.  The $500.00 to start the games sure paid off.

Yesterday Dale jammed his finger & it is sore.  The nail is black & he has to be very careful at work.  If he hits it, it pains.  Tonite he said it is better.  A couple of fingers just healed up & now another one.

Jan 5. Wed.

I got the kitchen floor washed & garbage ready for Thurs.  I'll ad a few more words.  We have some snow -- it isn't snowing  now (10:30 A.M.) but more is expected this aft.  Storm warning thru Thurs A.M.

Barb shortened 2 pr. of jeans for Dale.  He told her I'm giving you a tip.  She tho't he meant he was going to give her some advice but he gave her 10.00 for doing the job.  That was nice of him.

I haven't been upstairs since I got dressed & Barb never gets up til 9 A.M.  She still isn't up so she must not be feeling well.

I finished my puzzle & have started another one.

Last Fri. Barb & I went to lunch.  We wanted to go to the coffee place for soup & dessert but it was closed til 3 pm.  So we went to Holiday Inn.  And Ted & Pat Benson, Ted's sister & their oldest daughter (lives in Portland, Ore) were there for lunch.  We talked a few minutes & I went to our table.  We had a nice lunch.  We stopped at BiLo for some last minute groceries & what a mad house.  Both in the store & in the parking lot.  Was glad to get out of there safely.

Thurs A.M. the 6th 7:45 A.M.

No school today -- snow & icy roads.  Was awakened at 5 A.M. from the noise of plowing snow.

I got a kick out of your story of having to go to the downstairs bathroom at Cindy's.  You'll have to limit your liquids after 6 pm  Ha! Ha!

Your thanksgiving turkey looks lushious, or would delicious be a better word.  It looked good, and so did your table.