Sunday, July 9, 2006

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mon. July 10

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


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

Tues. July 11

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

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

Wed the 12th

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

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

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

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

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

Fri the 14th

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

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

Saturday, February 19, 2005

This is the weekend NASCAR returns to racing & we have been watching Speed Channel & races.  The big race is tomorrow from Fla.  If you are a real fan & have the money that is the place to be this weekend.  Daytona Beach.

Think I've mentioned this before what I learned from the Food Channel.  Marinate chicken with balsamic vinegar, onions & garlic, only I omit the garlic.  It is absolutely Dale's favorite way to do chicken.  They pan fried the chicken, but I baked it.  We had that tonite with Uncle Ben's rice, another of Dale's favorite.  And broccoli & fruit salad.  An easy & fast meal to prepare.  Make peanut butter bars for dessert.  Another easy recipe.  Similar to choc. chop cookies.

Barb has to go to the liquor store almost every week for Bert.  Barb hopes they don't think she uses all of it.  Barb thinks Bert should cut down on alcohol.  She is 87, in poor health, her friends have died or are in nursing homes so I say let her have her comforting drink.  She doesn't get out that much anymore.

Sun. Feb 21

We're watching the racing -- it is exciting to watch.  I forgot to mention when I had my hair done, I said to Sheila racing starts Sun.  Sue's customer said "Marion do you like racing?" Sheila answered for me.  "She is a big face fan."  I said I have to be as that is the main sport for Dale so I have to understand it.  I do enjoy it but it takes a back seat if baseball happens to be on at the same time.

I don't know if you remember the Nicholson's.  They lived on East St. next to the funeral home.  There were 2 sisters & 3 brothers.  One was a lawyer who was a good one but ides young.  None ever married.  They all have died & the last one died rectally.  They were ever active in the church but open to it.  They left over a 2 million estate.  The church will get the interest of 20% of the estate but it will probably take up to 2 y ears to settle (the estate). Pretty nice.  I know Dad used to call on the sisters who died first.

Barb & I finally finished the puzzle.  I'll put the card table away for awhile.

We won't go to Jamestown tomorrow -- the weather won't be that nice, sleet & rain.  I'd rather wait for nicer weather.

We like our new organist.  He plays very well & is getting acquainted with the liturgy.  He makes the organ sound very good.  He will lead the choir.

Tues pm the 22nd

This A>M. I went to Bible Study at church followed by pot luck lunch.  I made my tools to bring.  One thing that is never left over.  The pastor took 3 rolls home the last time I bro't them.  Her husband ate all three of them. He said "who made those rolls, I want to marry her."  Today I gave her the left over rolls so her husband should be happy.

Barb took the laptop computer to Lynn's so Lynn could help her get started -- how to use it.

You know what I remember about Janesville.  We spent our first nite as man & wife in a hotel there.  Our wedding was at 8 pm; after the reception we drove with Min & Lila & family to Beloit & then we took their car & drove to Janesville.  It was a terrible night.  Jan 26 & it was foggy & you couldn't see anything & it took a long time to get there.  We spent Sat. night with Min & Lila.  Dr. Benander asked Dad to preach at Salem that Sun & he did.  The first of the week we left for Auburn via train.   We got to Auburn in the morning & went from the train to the Strands for breakfast.  They are the ones that let you, Paul, open the cupboard doors & play with the pots & pans.

We've been watching reruns of Seinfeld & they are so crazy.  The other nite I was surfing the TV & came upon "Beverly Hills Cop 2". It was so crazy & I laughed so hard. Dale came downstairs to see what I was watching.  And today Perry Mason was in color.  Barb tho't that was the only one in color -- the first series.

That was really nice to be invited to consider applying for the job in Janesville.  But I can understand you not wanting to move because of the boys & the feeling you still have something to give at Middleton.  I guess that is why we continued to stay in Warren. It sure looks like a nice modern building.

I hope you're over the flu by now.  I had an extra Valentine so I sent it to my friend Shirley in Auburn.  She's the one whose husband died last Nov.  Heard from her today. The card arrived when she was getting over a bad case of the flu that left her very weak.

I don't know if you remem -- I've already covered that subject.  Nicholsons.

Our organist is 32 years old & last fall he had a triple bypass operation.  He was at church this A.M. When we were eating lunch the phone rang & it was his wife.  When he returned home he collapsed & was driving himself to Warren hosp.  He lives in Jamestown but didn't want to go to the Jamestown hosp.  We hope all things will be OK for him as organists are hard to come by.  His wife is only 22 yrs. old.  They have 3 children, the oldest is 6.  She was young when she had the 1st one.  T hey are a nice couple.

Wed. the 23.  I made the apple dessert from Bon Appetit (however you spell it) and it is good.  I had to sample it.  It has a think graham cracker base & that adds to the taste.

Gen called this noontime.  She tho't she was calling Millie.  We visited a bit.  Called Betty Casey -- she had a slight stroke & is doing better.  Hope to get to church soon.

Love to all.  Marion, better make it Mom.

Sunday, February 15, 2004

First Sun. racing of the year at Daytona & I'm watching it.  Dale is at Sam B's watching it & some other guys.  Randy Swanson picked Dale up.

Looking out the window one sees blue skies & sunshine but it is deceiving as it is cold out. Suppose to be minus degrees tonite.

When I got up this A.M. the question was do I go to church this A.M. or do I stay home.  I went to church & glad I did.  Lois Himes has cancer & is in a wheel chair & she & Junior are in church every Sun. so I said to myself there is no reason for you to stay home.  It was a good service.

Many crashes in the race today & it affects many cars as they take other cars out with them.

We went to Jamestown last Fri.  I found a top I liked & got it.  More expensive but 25% off. We had lunch at the Red Lobster, Barb's favorite.

We also stopped at WalMart as Barb wanted to look at yarn -- she found some.  I got some birthday & get well cards to have on hand.

Viola Seaquist has been in the hospital & now is in a nursing home.  She is 94 years old so it is critical.

This week I have to get a blood test & the 26th I see the Dr.

We didn't get our USA Today on Fri & it wasn't in the mail box on Sat.  No mail on Mon so I doubt we'll ever see it.  It's the puzzle I like but I always check out each section.

Barb & I each got a puzzle at Walmarts & I started mine yesterday.  It's a pretty one with bright colors & it is going together pretty fast.

Tues. the 17th is a busy day in Wi. with all the hype for the Dem. race to become the nominee for pres.  Barb has switched her loyalty to Kerry.  Sounds as if he is the lucky one.  Dean shot himself in the foot.

I've recently discovered the "Viewpoint" section of the Buffalo Sun.  paper.  It has good articles.  Dale likes to read that section as well.

Mon. Feb 16

Yesterday I watched the Daytona race & golf switching between the 2.  John Daly won in golf & we were rooting for him.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. won the Daytona race & we were rooting for him. The Sat. Busch car race was rained out so they finished it this A.M. & Dale Jr. won that race.  Dale is happy the faces are back.  He said he'd never go to Sam's again to watch the race as it was too smoky to suit him. Both Sam & Nancy smoke & I'm not sure about Randy.

I used a new recipe yesterday for potatoes & they were good.  Peel potatoes, dip them in melted butter, then crumbs & bake them in a pan in the oven til done, almost an hr.  They are good & I had oven fried chicken & broc. for veg. with them.  I might have the same menu Wed nite when Lar & Kim come over.  I'm putting "Pammed" foil in the bottom of pan so I don't have to scrub them.  Works for fudge & bar cookies.  Anything to make cooking easier.

Tues aft. 17th

What a wonderful surprise to read about your award from the WLA.  I know you worked hard on the committee you chaired & how nice to receive the award.  I'm very proud of you, Paul. You have made use of your God given abilities.  And the newspaper's article on the library is nice to read.  A feather in your cap to make this come true, under your capable leadership.

Reading your letter, I remember we didn't stay up til you all got home from dates or just "out".  Maybe we should have!

The article you wrote (quoted) about cookbooks & food is interesting.  When I'm just sitting & don't know what to do, I'll get a cookbook & go thru it.  It seems something often takes my eye that I've missed before.  Depends upon my mood, I guess.

Dale is starting to eat earlier so often he eats when it's ready so I don't  have to fix a plate for him. Many times Barb fixes her own mail, esp., if she doesn't want what I've fixed.

Thurs. Dale has to go to Rochester for school, along with Mark Peterson.  He is the son of Mr. P at Beaty, the shop teacher.  Now they can't go the day before but make it a one day trip.  They'll have to leave at 5 A.M. so that will make a long day.  Next week they go for a 2 day trip so they'll have to stay overnite.

I can remember from the "dark days" of high school how the girls always had their eyes on the athletes & wishing they could catch his eye & snag him.  A difficult job.  It was fun to dream!  Now Andy is the athlete taking the girl's eye.

This is Dale's late day -- I made veg. soup to go with deli beef sandwiches.  Not ready made. Tomorrow I'm making strawberry pie for dessert.  Will use frozen berries for the filling that pours over fresh berries.  Think spring!

Benson's grandson is in his first year of college & they are still going to his meets.  He runs & is good oat it.  The granddaughter is a senior & she also runs on her college team.  She goes to Allegheny College & he goes to Lock Haven.

This A.M. I went to get a blood test & the info wasn't there.  Dr. McNett ordered it but since I have a new Dr. I don't' know what happened   I asked, at the time, are you sure it will be there & they said "yes".  They called from the hosp. to the new Dr. but I decided not to wait around.  I see the Dr. next week & will get a sheet from him for the info, that's for sure.

Gen called last nite -- she tired for 3 nites & finally got me*.  She always calls John - "Ed". Ed does this for her, etc.   Millie sold her house so she'll be moving.  I'll have to call for more info.

*It's her dialing -- she misses & gets the wrong number.

Sounds like Ed is growing up.  Would be fun to see him with his friends.

Wed A.M.

Called Millie last nite -- got her new address & she hopes to be living there by the middle of March.  The house is sold but she's waiting for the money & then she'll be sure. She deeded the house to her children & they'll get the money.  Millie said she has enough to go on from pensions & S.S.  She worked at Steiger's 38 yrs & she gets a pension even tho they went out of business.

Barb was all excited last nite with Kerry's headquarters in Middleton.  She kept watching in as she would see JoAnna in the crowd.  More candidates will be left by the highway.

This A.M. I made the strawberry pie & started sweet rolls.  After my time out, I have to dust downstairs, etc.  It's a sunny day making one feel good & ambitious.

Later.  The potatoes went over big tonite.  Lar really liked them & he was the one I wasn't sure of.

Dale & Mark P. decided to take a lunch for tomorrow & Dale said he'd have some of the fruit salad I made for dinner.  But just a little was left so I added an orange & a couple of strawberries to it so there is salad for him.  I'll make a ham sandwich in the A.M.  He has juice & chips ready to go.

Kim didn't have her glasses so Lar read the award article aloud.  Such a nice article. Reading aloud sounded so good.

Saturday, February 16, 2002

In today's paper there is an obit of Daniel T. Goldthwaite, a former prof. U of Wi, Oshkosh and he was on the Oshkosh public library board.  He was born in Sheffield.  I wonder if you know him.  He was in the Physics & Astronomy Dept so Barb didn't know him.

Dale was in Rochester yesterday for a day of instruction.  They have to keep up their knowledge to stay a 5 Star group.  Lately 2 have been going so there is company driving.

In my life, I lived in Springfield thru high school.  Then 2 years in Minneapolis, back to Spfld. for 3 years.  Back to Mpls. for a few months, next Rockford, then Auburn, Gt. Falls & finally settled in Warren.  Everyone else in my family spent all their lives in Spfld.

Bert has ha friend visiting from Hawaii, Laura.  She married a Reese who had money.  Chuck Reese's uncle.  He was older than Laura & when he died she had his wealth.  She visits Warren -- would like to buy a home here.  She stays at the old Dr. Valone home on Market St. that is now a Bed & Breakfast.  Barb took Bert & Laura to Jamestown to lunch -- she drove, Bert paid.  Now Laura wants to go again & she'll buy Barb's lunch this time.  So they will go on Tues.  They go to 210 Pine, a private club.  Bert can't drive because her eyes aren't good enough & Laura doesn't drive, never has.

The Ash Wed. Service was very nice.  The pastor announced if anyone preferred not to get the ashes, they didn't have to come forward.  Everyone did.

I'm wondering what you both will do when Andy goes past his time limit, say 11 pm.  Especially when he has the car!  An interesting time of life - something to look forward to!! I got thru it so will you.  Dad was the worrier so I had to keep cool.

Racing is back so Dale is happy.  There has been a lot going on this week.  Right now I came upon U.SA. female hocked against Finland.  U.S. 4-0.  I've never seen women play ice hockey & it's fun to watch.

Mon. Feb 18.

We were all watching the Nascar race yesterday.  Dale was at Sam B.  Barb upstairs, me at the kitchen table.  Crashes made it exciting & a Dodge won .  Blood thirsty?

This AM I called Verizon & changed so all charges will be on one bill.  Switched from AT&T to Verizon for long distance calling.  Lar & Kim did & said it would be easier to have one bill.  We'll see how I like it.

It was cold this A.M. - 12 but it is sunny & will warm up.

Axel Nasman died.  His son Wayne was your age.  Only 1 daughter of the large family is left.  Viola & she lives in Sheffield -- her daughter is a member at St. Paul so Viola visits St. Paul.  We know each other -- she worked in the Sheffield cafeteria.  5 Nasman sons & 3 daughters.

Yesterday Lar & Kim went to a Home Show in Cleveland.  Torey spent the day with friend Nancy who owns Torey's siter Ginger.  We'll hear about it on Thurs.

Until next time.

Saturday, July 7, 2001

I'm on the porch with a cup of coffee & a freshly made roll & PB oatmeal c.c. cooky.  Have to sample my baking.  I'm awake early so I was up at 6 A.M., baked my rolls & cookies & made banana bread.  Then Barb & I went to the Mall, after I was showered & dressed & I returned a blouse at Bon Ton (didn't like how it looked ) & did a little shopping at KMart.  Now I'm taking the rest of the day off.  We are going to Nickel Inn tonite for Kim's birthday dinner.  It was put off when Lar got sick & they had plans for last weekend.

The store on rd & Conewango is now G.O.P headquarters & it is being remodeled.  Taken out the large window, filled in & now there are 4 smaller ones.  Entrance centers on 3rd & Conge--.  Improved the look of the bldg.

Careys put up a fence (long time ago) between their yard & the school yard.  A while ago they took it down.  Kim wanted it & Lar wouldn't ask for it.  So last Thurs. Kim did & Mr. Carey said "sure".  It's a picket fence & she wants to put it up by the greenhouse at the apt.  She's fixed up a little patio there.  But it entailed more work as Mr. C. had more stuff he wanted to get rid of & Kim's friend was having a garage sale today.  Yesterday aft. she was over & helped to assemble the stuff in their garage.  2 sewing machines, some exercise stuff & I don't know what else.  Kim said one of her friends would like a sewing machine.  They were here at 7:30 to put the stuff in Lar's truck.  I went over to give Lar a roll & cookies for a snack & I was in my nightie, housecoat & slippers.  Felt a little embarrassed but I wanted to finish my chores before a shower.  Kim said they have a lot more junk in the attic & I'm sure Lar will be called on to help get rid of it.

The Fall Penney's catalog came this week & I've been looking at it.  See a few things I might like but am in no hurry.  Seems like I remember you said you shopped at Target.  If it is possible, I'd love to go there.  Erie has one & Kim likes to shop there.  It seems like we go to the Mall & don't ever get to Target. 

Yesterday & today are so beautiful.  Blue skies, fluffy white clouds & clear air.  My kind of summer day, & I'm enjoying taking it easy.

Barb is watering her plants & Mr. Carey asked her what she used to feed her plants.   Miracle Gro is the answer.  He said they look great & they do.  On the steps, on each side of the rails, she has dahlias & they are starting to bloom & look so great.  In the back yard she has lupine & they are beautiful.

I better water my hanging basket so more later.

I made a blueberry pie & Lar said it was good, only Kim makes better pies!  I said that's fine -- the wife comes first now.  Anyway I'm including the recipe in case you like blueberries.

I'm watching "mute" TV.  Cleveland vs. St. Louis.  Will root for Cleveland.  Can't stand all the controversy of the All Star game, managers, choices, etc.

Sun. aft.

Just finished making a Turkey salad for supper.  Whenever turkey breast is on sale, I get one.  Last week was cool so we had turkey Thurs. nite.  Fri Barb wanted pizza so we didn't have left overs.  Last nite we went out.  Barb, Lar & I had fish fry as it is available on Fri & Sat.  It was delicious.  Golden crust & nice white meat & it was a huge piece.  Dale had big size Prime Rib & he couldn't eat it all so Torey got leftovers.  Kim had broccoli fettuccine.  Nickel Inn & it was crowded with many large groups.  To get back to the leftover turkey -- was trying to plan a weekly menu & decided to use the turkey in a salad & still have some for sandwiches for Mon. lunch.

Soon strawberries are at an end but Barb picked 2 qts yesterday.  She likes to make a strawberry smoothie & Dale likes them on ice cream. 

Kim said Mr. Carey had added more stuff to the collection.  Some went into a bag & sold very cheap.  Another bag & any leftovers went to the Salvation Army & it included moth eaten draperies.  She made about 50.00.

As soon as we got home last nite, about 9:20 pm, the TV went on as it was a nite Nascar race.  And Earnhardt Jr. wont it -- that was so nice as it was where his dad died.  I went to bed & didn't see the end which was a good deal.  It would be hard to get to sleep after all that emotion.

Rose Seeley is back at Warren Hosp. Transitional Care Unit.  I suppose for therapy & getting ready to go home.  She's had some tough times.

Saw this quote in the Buff. paper.  "I adore seafood, especially saltwater taffy."  Milton Berle.

Tues the 10th -- the day I clean my bedroom & the bathroom.  Now I'm cleaned up & ready to watch "Murder She Wrote" & will finish my letter.  It's a showery day but I hope to mail t his after 11 AM & also a card to Rose.

I have a 1000 pc. puzzle on the card table.  I'll ad a piece now & then while watching the All Star game in Seattle.  Watched the Home Run Derby last nite & was glad it was won by the N.L.  Hope they can win tonite.

Saturday, March 10, 2001

I just called & got motel reservations in the Iron Mt. Motel 8.  Got the combination numbers for 2 rooms.

Your kitchen plans sound wonderful./  Lots of cupboard space.  Bet you can hardly wait for them to get started.  But you will need the time to take out the cupboards, etc.  Will be fund to see it in July.

It doesn't seem to want to stop snowing.  We haven't had a lot this past week -- after the 6" we got -- but flurries each day.  Today it 's been strange, cloudy, flurries, & then sunshine but it doesn't last.

We know what is going into the former CVS & KB toy store at the Mall -- a Dollar Store.  Already there is one in the Market St. Plaza -- opposite BiLo.  Kim goes in there & finds bargains so I hope it will work at the Mall.  They have a sign in the window (Mall) concerning hiring.  One down & several to go.

I didn't get any library books on Fri.  I decided I couldn't spend the weekend reading.  In the Apr. 3 Family Circle there is an article on bumper stickers & one caught my eye -- from Appleton, Wi.  "Librarians are novel lovers."  Another one I saw was cute.  "I owe, I owe, it's off to work I go."

Did you notice Penn State beat Mich. State in the Big Ten tournament.  Go Penn State!!!

Got a letter from Millie & she said Gen broke 1 or 2 vertabrae when she fell.  She went to emergency room Mon A.M.  The Dr. gave her pain medicine & she is in a lot of pain.  Can't do anything so Ed has the responsibility of meal, etc.  She sleeps a lot.  Larry said they should get 2 way radios & contact Ed that way.

Millie wrote Linda was home for 5 days & they went shopping.  Millie got a new wreath for her front door.  She has a little storage shed & the window box she had for it was broken.  She got a new one to be put up if spring ever comes.  She had 3 boys shovel for her.  Lots of drifting snow.

The Warren Co. teachers finally got their new contract after waiting 8 months.  They didn't get everything they wanted but some of the things that were important were given them.  Kim was happy.  Lar has the bedroom floor half done.  They get Fri thru Mon, the 16-19 off so Kim hopes it will be done so she could start cleaning -- dust, etc.  Then the house is completed.  He's talking garage.  Thinks he could do it himself, with Dale's help.  And he'd like to get cement siding as the squirrels are gnawing on their siding.  He'd do the job himself.

Sun. aft the 11th

We had snow this A.M. & it came down fast.  Bet we got 3 inches.  It's clear now -- 1:45 pm.

All our 3 TVs have NASCAR racing.  Barb upstairs, Dale in the kitchen.  I'm in the L.R.  During the 3rd lap, 700 balloons were released in memory of D. Earnhardt & everyone saluted with 3 fingers in the air.  The one who is driving in place of D. E. is doing very well. He's just a young one starting out & didn't figure to race NASCAR this early in his career.


Don't laugh, but I've already started making a lit of what I'll need to bring on the trip.  I like to make lists.

Supper is over & the kitchen is cleaned up.

The end of the race was so exciting.  Kevin Harvick who now races D. E. car with a different number, 29, beat Jeff Gordon by 1/1000 of a second.  You should have heard the cheering & seen the #3 flags waving in the grandstands.  This is only his 3rd Nascar race & he won.  He wasn't suppose to NASCAR race until next spring & then ease into it gradually.  What a thrill for him.  Guess you'd say we're into racing as much as ever.

Penn State didn't do so good in their 2nd game.  Guess winning over Mich . State wore them out.

You're probably watching the college playoff of basketball games.  I'm not into basketball, except if Penn State is winning & I want to see if they win the game.

Tues. Mar. 13th.  My room & the bathroom are cleaned & towels are washing.  Put Swiss steak in the cork pot & it smells good.  We get groceries today so it will be nice to have dinner cooking.  It's raining her e-- more showers.  Love to all.

Thursday, February 22, 2001

This has been a hard week because of Dale Earnhardt's death & TV reminders.  Today from 11 A.M.-1 pm they had the tribute to D. E.  The actual church service was only 1/2 hour.  His Lutheran pastor read the Bible story of Martha, Mary & Lazarus rising from (the) death.  The NASCAR chaplain had the meditation & it was very inspiring.  An Alabama member sang 2 numbers.  It helps putting a closing to everything.;  It should end the tears.  He died doing what he loved.

Tonite Lar & Kim come for dinner.  I'm having a chicken rice casserole that is tasty.  Plus a broccoli salad & pecan pie with choc. chips on the bottom.  It's good that way.

I remembered the name when I heard of Eddie Matthews' death.  I'm probably more familiar with baseball names over other athletes.  Baseball must be my favorite sport.

It's funny, when Barb first came home sports meant nothing to her.  Then she got interested in Michael Jordan, Buffalo Bills, & the latest is Pittsburgh hockey.  She knows the names & now with Fox sports she can watch more games.  And of course NASCAR & I'm sure after awhile she will go back to watching it.  Oh yes, golf is also important to her.

With Dale it's NASCAR & the Steelers.

Scott realized Barb was sad over Dale E. death.  Mon nite Scott & Lynn were at KMart & Scott said "Barb is so sad, we should buy her a D. E. car".  Someone overheard Scott say that & said "we are sold out of D. E. memorabilia."  It went fast everywhere.

Sat the 24th.

Fri. we went to the library before we went to the Mall.  I got 3 books -- Bean Trees by B. Kingsolver, Echoes by Maeve Binchy & Fern Michaels Celebration.  I started reading it Fri. & finished it this A.M. *& it was so good.  This is Dale's week to work Sat A.M. so I was up at 6 A.M. & by 8:30 I had a coffee cake made & choc. chip cookies.  Then I got dressed, made my bed & finished the book.  I had to do my baking first or I was afraid I'd put it off.  I like my cookies pressed own as they come out nice & crisp.  Barb & Dale like them not pressed down so I divided them -- 2 pans for them, 1 1/2 for me.  All are happy.

The other nite I was going thru the TV channel & came across your former Gov. giving his state address, or whatever you call it.  I was so surprised with his appearance.  Not the man I pictured in my mind from your letters.  I pictured a large important looking man.  From what I saw he just the opposite.  Didn't linger that long.

Was supposed to see the Dr yesterday but ti was postponed because of trouble with pipes.  They must have frozen or something.  Now it will be the last Fri. in Mar.  Fri. is better as Barb can take me over & I hate to have Lar take time off to take me on the other days as usually appt are mid afternoon.

Tues. after work Dale goes to Rochester for a Wed., 1 day only, class.

What are you doing about your back.  Have you had an Xray?  You need to do something.

I'm looking forward to spring.  But first we have to get thru St. Patrick's Day as some 40 years ago they had a huge snow storm here.

Sun. Feb 25.

The NASCAR race in on TV.  Everyone going into the grandstand was given a Dale Earnhardt #3 banner.  It's a full house.  All the drivers are wearing (before the race) D. E. baseball caps.  Even in golf Davis Love III was wearing a D. E cap as well as 3 other guys from N. Carolina.  D. E. made a great impact on people.  I asked our Dale once, if he liked his name.  Because of Dale Evens (Roy Rogers) he didn't when he was little but when D. E. came along, all that changed.  Already a crash when they bumped together.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. was in the crash & he was limping a bit.  Too bad but it was only the first lap so maybe he can get back.  4 cars involved.

Today is spring but for 1 day only.  I wish it would stay longer.  Mon. more winter.

The race had to be cancelled due to rain.  It will be run Mon at 11 A.M.  There is also rain at the golfing event but they are still able to play.

Mon. Feb. 26

This is Dale's early week so I was up early.  After breakfast I read for an hour.  Did dishes, got dressed, did Dale's sheets & other clothes.  Then I cleaned the basement shower.  A 2nd load of clothes.  Read my book.  Made Dale's bed, made lunch.   Read my book.  Dale had a headache last nite & didn't eat dinner so he's having that tonite so I didn't have to make a meal.  Finished my book by Binchy & it was so good I wished it was longer.  So I mostly read today.  Fun./  I hope there are 1 or 2 more books of hers I can read.  Enjoyed the Bean Trees but the other I liked better.

Also had the race on today while I was reading.  The end was exciting & the Dale Earnhardt car won this week.  Steve Park drove the #1 car.  His car also won last week.  He had 3 cars own by the D. E. racing team.  D. E. raced for Childress racing team.

Guess this is all.

Thursday, February 17, 2000

Another nice day before the storm hits us.  No school last Mon. due to ice.  Kim & Torey came over for a cup of coffee to get away from the noise.  What noise, you say.  Lar is removing the floor from their living room & he ash the stereo full blast, even singing along.  He'll add insulation & then put down oak flooring.  Kim figures it will take up to 3 weeks to finish it.  So it will be a mess for awhile.

Dale got a glass door book case but it was damaged on top & bottom -- he got it 1/2 price off.  Nice glass doors.  But he has to have perfection so eh got a piece of oak veneer & will replace the top & bottom.  He used the radial saw Dad bot but it didn't cut good so he was frustrated.  Decided to get rid of it & get something better.  It made a couple of little nicks & Dale can't have that.  Lar will take the desk so Dale got it out of his room & Lar took it.  Once he made up his mind Dale works fast.  This is his early week so after work today he plans to go to Cobbs to see if he can get a matching stain for the replacements.

I haven't watched the Millionaire shows.  They don't appeal to me.  Used to watch "Wheel of Fortune" with Dad but not after he died.  Barb watches those programs & tells me about it.

Finally finished my puzzle with Barb's help.  Have 2 more new ones to do & both look harder.  Put the card table away but might start another puzzle this weekend.  [I did.]

Been checking my recipes.  In March I serve LCW with Marge Woods & looked for a recipe I tho't would be easy as well as delicious.  Can't find it anywhere.  So we decided on serving cake.  I'll make chocolate & Marge will make yellow.  Didn't check my calendar when asked to serve & have an eye appt. in the aft.  But we aren't a large group anymore so it will work out.  Told Dale this will be a froz. dinner meal.  We like the Stouffer's froz. lasagna & the spaghetti is good, too.

Sat. aft.

Nascar racing is back & I'm watching the Busch car race.  Watched the truck racing yesterday & there was an accident - flames, rolled over 11 times.  Not hurt that bad.  Did you happen to see it on the news.  (truck accident)

The reason we went to Janesville -- Dad said that's what we'd do & I followed.  After awhile that changed -- the meekness!   The big storm missed us -- just a little snow & nothing today.  It went south.

Gen called last nite to say Aunt Esther died Fri. A.M. -- congestion in the lungs.  Warren & Barbara Luthgren took care of everything.  There will only be a committal service at the cemetery.  Warren lives in N. Carolina now & won't come for the funeral.  Neither is Barbara -- she lives in Colorado.  So it would be Gen, Ed, Millie & Linda who has a week's vacation & Virginia, another cousin.  Gen said she'd have them back for coffee.

I mentioned that you sent Jeff's project to Cindy & Albert & that they would send it to Hawaii.  Had written Gen & Millie about it.  Millie tho't it was great.

Dale is looking for a new dresser.  Is on his way to Jamestown now.  He plans to start painting soon.  He bo't some shelving for the basement & has it set up.  Looks nice.  Oh yes, he plans to look for some kind of an elec. saw set up at Sears.  Can't remember the correct term for it.

Am enclosing a news article Gen sent.  Forest Park brings back many memories -- skating at Porter Lake, etc.  It must be beautiful to see -- the Christmas lights.

Sun.

Tim & Lisa Passinger were in church with their new baby Philip.  He slept the whole time.  Has lots of hair.  Born Jan. 8th.

Dale got a new piece of equipment from Sears.  Still don't know the correct term.  Lar came over & helped him carry it in.

Sun. aft. I'm always so tired so I took a nap.  Now all 3 TVs have racing on.

The following is from Rabbi Harold Kushner's "Who Needs God?"

What is the difference between a person who relies only on himself & a person who has learned to turn to God for help?  It's not that one will do bad things while the other will do good things.  The self reliant atheist may be a fine upstanding person.  The only difference is the atheist is like a bush growing in the desert.  If he has only himself to rely on when he exhausts his internal resources, he runs the risk of running dry & withering.  But the man & woman who turn to God is like a tree planted by a stream.  What they share with the world is replenished from a source beyond themselves, so they never run dry.

I like that & that's why we go to church to receive that special faith & strength.  My thought for today.

P.S.  It's a Craftsman table saw Dale got.  Big one.

Saturday, November 13, 1999

This is the last sheet of paper on this pad so it will be a mixed paper letter.

Just walked & mailed 2 bills in the 5th Ave box.  It's cloudy but still mild.  They keep saying colder weather is on the way but it doesn't last.  I'm not complaining tho.  Let it be nice thru the holidays.

The Schwan man comes every other Thurs. & last Thurs. he said he'd come on Wed. as the Thurs. was Thanksgiving.  I have a turkey in the freezer but it still doesn't seem possible the holidays are getting so close.

Still, both Barb & I have a good start on our Christmas shopping.  In fact, Barb is just about finished.  Soon a pkg. will be on the way with birthday presents.

I don't think I could worship every Sun. at the Hosanna Church.  I, too, would miss the liturgical service & sacraments.  Altho, when a child & saw the communion elements on the altar I knew it would be a longer service & wished I could go home after Sun./ School.  I couldn't take that type of music Sun. after Sun.  But each to his own, or hers!

Is Signe in a nursing home?  I wonder if the sisters know as Ruth always calls me to tell of any operations, etc.

This A.M. I made a coffee cake & a white (box) layer cake.  Dale likes an A.M. snack so it's either rolls or coffee cake.  And I love to bake so it's no problem.  Keeps me young!  Ha, ha.

Lar & Torey came over last nite.  Kim was at a school dance & Lar forgot the USA Today papers I save for him.  Torey loves to come to Grandma's as he gets cheese, ice cream & 2 sugar cookies.  He expects it & makes his wants known if I'm too slow in getting them.

I'm a little surprised it's taking so long to get Andy fitted for glasses.  Maybe he's not looking forward to wearing glasses even if it helps him to see the blackboard better.

Rose Seeley isn't able to be in church very often due uto her back.  I miss seeing her & it will be strange not seeing Gen Brader up front on the left hand side of the sanctuary.

Now it's Sun. aft. & I just returned from a walk overtown to CVS for some bargains they offered.  It was still nice & the weather is suppose to change to colder weather.  Very windy, tho.

Betty Gusfatson Mailhot wants me to make my Danish rolls for a party she's having Dec. 11  I'd rather not but it's hard to say no so I'll do it.   It's not going to be a habit, tho.  I'll have to make 2 batches.  Tues. Betty Casey wants me to go out to lunch - I say yes.  Mon. we hope to go to Jamestown in the aft. if the predicted snow flurries are few.  (We went).

Did you notice Nascar is going to NBC & Fox?  It's a popular sport & growing.  It's popular in this house.

The Bills are playing Miami & are ahead so far.  The Browns scored first against the Steelers.

The Wisc/Iowa game was great for you fans.  I enjoyed it too & seeing Dayne play & honored.  Now Penn State was another story.

I have my Christmas cards & want to get started addressing them....sometime soon.

I asked Kim if Barb Jacobs would like to come for Thanksgiving.  Kim asked her & she might come.  One friend has cancer so she won't be with her.  2 others talked about going to Holiday Inn.  If that doesn't happen she'll come.  No one wants to be alone on a holiday.

Time for a coffee break.

Tues. A.M.  Will bring this to a close & mail it before I start my "chores".  Betty called & can't make it for llunch today.  Now I don't have to rush to get those "chores" completed.  Heavy frost overnite.

October 10, 1999

Thanks for the pictures of the boys.  They are growing up so fast.  I see a lot of changes.

In church today, we had a substitute organist.  She was good, bro't out the power of the organ & we aren't used to that so some people didn't like it.  She outpowered the pastor & he has a loud voice.

Fri. Barb & I went to Jamestown & got some good buys, so it was enjoyable.  We ate at the Red Lobster.  I tried cat fish for the first time & it was delicious.

Thurs. Betty Casey & I went to lunch at Penn Laurel.  I had homemade chicken soup & it was really homemade.  So good.  She said Mike called from Wi. last week & they have snow.  They are in the western part of the state.

Gen & Ed celebrate their 45th anniversary Oct 23rd.  Hope they reach 50.  Both have a few problems.

It cleared up today - was suppose to rain.  Dale is afraid the Nascar race will be postponed & on the weather map it shows rain all across (up & down) the coast line.

What about those Mets.  They won even with Mike P. on the bench & his replacement got the winning home run.  On to Atlanta.  They must remember to be careful of Chipper Jones & the one who follows him or they will kill the Mets.  It's been exciting anyway it ends.  A Subway series would be interesting as I'm sure the Yankees will make it, altho I'd root for Cleveland.

I have a pot roast in the crockpot & it smells good.  Finally a change from chicken  but sometimes Barb doesn't want beef, unless it's steak.

Dale's getting the Blazer transmission remade.  His friend in Frewsburg is doing it & he told  Dale it was good as one part was very thin & would have caused trouble in the winter.

Our flowers are still blooming.  No real frost yet.  We took green tomatoes in & put them in paper bags & then they will ripen.

We're watching Buffalo vs. Pittsburgh & Buffalo is doing good.  Smile for Barb but not for Dale.

In Jamestown we went to Walmart & I found a platter in my everyday Corelle pattern.  They aren't that easy to find & I was so pleased to get it.

I'm still waiting for Christmas ideas.  I think Pokemon are an impossibility.  Cards at least.  I've seen books, posters but no cards.  Except for the ad in the paper & they wanted $550.00 for over 400 cards.  It's a scam!!

Need to clean up lunch dishes.

Betty Gusfatson Mailhot asked me if I'd make 2 doz. of my Danish rolls for a brunch she's having in Dec.  I didn't say yes yet & I don't know if I want to get into baking for others.  Not worth it.

Here it is Wed. & I haven't finished this letter so it will be late.

Today I see the dentist & I hope it is just a one trip experience.

Mildred Wilson died - I worked with her at Beaty & Lar did work for her so Lar & I went to the funeral home.  She was 88 & outlived her husband.

The eating area lock would really bother you, Paul, as it has gotten noisy.  Think it needs a new battery.

Get my hair done on Thurs. this week as Sheila is taking a long weekend to visit her girlfriend in N.W. Wi. to see their new baby.  A few months old now.  She is from Minn. but worked in Warren a few years but returned to the Midwest as her mother isn't well.

This is Dale's early week & I've made applesauce & a banana coffee cake - in a bundt pan with streusel instead of the loaf pan.  It's good.

So it's time to make my bed & get a shower.

P.S.  Saw the dentist - Dr. Walters - he said he wishes his Dad could get around as well as I do.  We're the same age.  My lower left in the back have been sore at times so he took an xray & something is wrong so I have to go back on Mon aft. at 1 pm.  More fun - I like Dr. Walters for a dentist.

Friday, May 28, 1999

What a wonderful day we've had & I'm sitting on the front porch having just finished my dessert - fresh strawberry pie & coffee.  We really appreciate today after a week of colder, rainy which was needed) weather.  In the A.M. the furnace went on & the heat felt good.

We're going to Lar & Kim's Sat. nite instead of Sun. as they have a chance to play golf.  It is better for us as it is an evening Nascar race & Barb & Dale can't miss it.  Dale Earnhardt Jr. is racing in this race.  He got a big contact backing from Budweiser.  Too many distractions when I'm outside so forgive the mistakes.

The Memorial Fund got a $50.00 gift from Dr. & Mrs. Robert Weiss (Mary Berglund).  In memory of Dad, Lar planted a tree & put the ashes under it.  We'll see where it is tomorrow nite.

Dale got an edge trimmer (lawn) that is battery operated at K Mart.  It works good.  He looked at Hoover vacuum cleaners & plans to buy one.  It has a filter, etc.  It will be for downstairs.  The present one will go upstairs.  So I told Barb she can have the old upstairs one for a rummage sale.  She has a table at Lynn's sale.

I really miss shopping at County.  Now it's Quality & BiLo & I have to get used to where things are.  We plan to go to the Mall tomorrow - sale at Bon Ton.  Got groceries today at Bi Lo.

I'm watching T.V., switching between Mets & Astros & Braves & L.A.  Randy Johnson is beating the Mets 7-1 & L.A. is ahead of Atlanta.  Also trying to plan menus for the week that might be different from the usual.

We had a nice time at Lar & Kim's last nite.  It is such a peaceful place to sit & enjoy the get together.  Lar planted geraniums in the tub by the front porch & they look very attractive to passer bys.

What kind of a furnace will you get.  Will it involve lot of changes seeing you have 2 furnaces now - pipes, etc.

L. A.-Braves are tied 4-4.  Johnson always leave the pitcher in too long.  Did the same thing when he was with the Mets.  Mets are bad because their good pitchers are ailing.

Dale was telling us Randy Swanson passed out in the rest room at the Cornerstone.  Dale asked him what he was drinking - some kind of mixed drink.  Dale told him he'd better stick to beer.  He said Randy isn't that bright & he doesn't need alcohol to dull his brain anymore.

Nice to talk to you on the phone.  Nice to hear Andy tell us about his triple.  That is great.

Mon.  Memorial Day.

Lar came over & dug up by the garden in that little area that leads to the clothes line.  Very uneven & hard to walk on when I want to hang out clothes.  Dale will buy square slabs of stone to put there.

Lar put some bark or something by the D.R. landscaping & we need to get more to finish.  Such an improvement.  The back yard walkway will be so nice once it's finished.  Dale saw what he likes & will buy them.

Don't think I wrote (too lazy to look back) that Dale bo't the vacuum cleaner yesterday at Big K.  Haven't tried it out yet.  So he's spending the money on what used to go for his nites out.  He's home every nite now.

Time to write to Gen.

Friday, February 5, 1999

It's 8:30 A.M. & all is quiet.  This is Dale's early week so I'm up, dressed & set to go.  Where - well I should cash a check for Feb. expenses so I plan to walk over town.  It is sunny so should warm up a bit.

You got 2 letters as I'm trying to write letters on Fri. & mail them Sat. when I get my hair done.  It doesn't always happen.

Early this A.M. - 3:15 I heard a noise & saw a light downstairs.  Dad was up sitting in a chair - 2 lamps on in the L room, back door & basement light on & in the bathroom.  Finally got him up, changed his Depend & got him back in bed.  But I just dozed so I'll probably take a nap this aft.

Been thinking of Cindy & the baby.  Be sure to keep me informed.

Already wrote notes to Millie & Gen.

Am watching the Weather Channel & one gal has a pretty yellow suit on.  Makes me think of spring.  We still have piles of snow in spots - the sun doesn't reach them - and it feels like spring but I know it's too early for W. Pa.

Noticed in the paper that the Mets fired Tim McCarver & hired Tom Seaver.  AND they will be on Ch. WPIX so we'll see some of their games.  Oh Happy Day!  What more could I ask for?

Signe called last Sun. but Carolyn & I talked.  Dad said a few words.  Carolyn said she'd be taking Paul back to college & would miss the wedding.  (Charles)  But maybe Jim would take Signe.  Hope you can make it.

In Buffalo there is talk about moving Children's Hospital & people are very upset about that.  I watch Buff. Ch. 2 news - it is the most investing.  NBC.

NASCAR racing starts Sun. & Dale is happy.  The book on Dale Earnhardt family came & it is so interesting.  Read it thru.  He is family oriented.  Followed in his father's footsteps & learned form him.  Father died at 44 of a heart attack & he still misses him.  Mother, 2 brothers & 2 sisters still in N. Carolina.

Aft. (PM)

I tried to get Dad up & he didn't want to so I let him sleep & went to cash a check.  So I have my cash for the month.  I got him up & he had "brunch", 2 meals in 2.  He was up awhile & now he's sleeping again.

Stopped at the library & got "Pictures of Perfection" by Reginald Hill.  Tried to get a book by Ian Rankin but couldn't find one & didn't have time to check.  In Buff. paper there was a good review of his books in general & the latest one "Black & Blue".  To quote - "There are no barrooms, no four letter words.  And when he romances the town librarian, there are no affecting descriptions of just who does what to whom.  They enjoyed their lovemaking 'he says', and that's all I'm going to tell you on the subject."  My kind of book - tame!

We got a letter today from Messiah Church Auburn inviting us to the 75th Anniversary May 1 & 2.  We can stay with Elfrieda Kennedy but it will be just a dream.  No way can we accept,m as nice as it would be to return to Auburn once again.  I'll have to write a letter.

Better bring to a close.

Friday, February 7, 1997 (Letter to Andy)

Your Dad tells us about your basketball games.  We are happy you like sports.  Soon there will be baseball spring practice and pre-season games.  We look forward to watching baseball on T.V.

Nascar racing starts this weekend and Uncle Dale will be watching his favorite racer.  Dale Earnhardt - number 3 car.  It's good we have more than one T.V.

Aunt Barbara bring Scott over here and he always wants a cooky.  He likes my cookies just like y ou and Eddie do.  We also have to put teh M&M candy out or reach.  Otherwise he wants some.  His mother says no candy.

Saturday, February 10, 1996

Received the letter & pictures on Fri.   Those boys are so adorable.  Wish we were closer to help baby sit.  (Need a new expression - maybe just plain sit.)

I'm set to go to Joyce's birthday party, but it's too early so to fill the time I'll write letters.  I got her "Chicken Soup for the Soul" #2.  I really enjoy my copies.  Got #2 in case she already had #1.

Nascar racing starts the 18th so we'll be watching the #3 car of Dale Earnhardt.  Then spring training & soon we'll be watching our favorite teams play.  Wonder who will rise to the top.

Barb went to Jamestown - I planned to go & then Dad had a hair cut at 11 A.M. so that meant a later start & I didn't feel like rushing around when I'm going out.

Next Wed - Valentines - Hollertzs, Bensons if they aren't away & we can reach them & Ray Forstrom's from Youngsville* so we'll be 8.  Plan a chicken casserole (corn & broc.) & a jello salad with a pretzel crumb crust.  Not sure if I'll make a dessert or just have ice cr. & cookies.  *Forgot to finish my thought - they'll come for lunch.  I look forward to having them.  Warren thinks they should chip in to help pay expenses but I don't feel that is necessary.  For me it's good to have something to look forward to & make plans -- menu, etc.

 Tookk me awhile to get going on Sidney Sheldon's book, but once I started & I couldn't stop.  It was good.  I'll have to look for April Smith's book - sounds good.

Barb had the ultra sound on Wed. & next Mon. she sees the Dr. again for results.  She got the results of the pap smear & that showed no cancer.

Sounds like you had a great weekend even if you couldn't ski.  Linda took us to a Swedish restaurant when we were at Door County.  Remember that grass was growing on the roof.

Ash Wed. is the 21st so there will be Wed. nite services during Lent.

This A.M. before 6, Carey's alarm went off & it is noisy.  Went to call Lar & got the wrong number the 1st time.  We have the key so I was waiting for him - a police car was there also.  It was the upstairs alarm & that has given trouble before so he turned it off.  Imagine nit woke the neighborhood up as it took awhile for Lar to get here.  I went back to bed & got up at 7 A.M.

Imagine they'll have snacks & cake at Joyce's it's from 4-6 - but I won't feel like fixing a meal so we'll have pizza & I'll fix a roast for Sun.  Fri nites & Sun. are meals that are hard for me to make.  Usually we'd eat out at least twice a week & now we don't but I'm not motivated to meal getting.  Think I miss eating out the most.

Scott lost his other front tooth.  Lynn was giving him a bath & he didn't want to cooperate & somehow slipped & his tooth hit the tub & was hanging out.  She took him to the dentist thinking they could put it back in.  They said it would only turn black so it came out.  Lynn didn't go to work that day - she had a headache.  He is really something else.

The temp. is 47 but only for 1 day.  Suppose to get colder again & snow flurries.  But we hope the worst is over for this winter.  No part of the country has been spared.

Time to sign off.

P.S.  Joyce's party was so nice & she was so pleased.  Bev & Jeff Sweet look real good.  Jeff was promoted to Captain so he has done very well in the Navy & he worked hard to get ahead.

Monday, February 13, 1995

Wrote a letter last week but it never got mailed.  See what I can do about getting this mailed.

Now we're looking forward to summer & seeing how the air conditioning works.  This is our vacations & oversea travels!  Each to his own.

But spring must be near as next Sun. is the 1st Nascar race of the season at Daytona Beach.  Dale Earnhardt has 2nd place in the race.  Sheila (she does my hair) & her husband are taking a vacation & will be at the race.  So I'll hear all about it on the 24th.  They leave tomorrow, the 14th.

Notice "The Lion King" comes out in March so I tho't I'd get it as an Easter gift for the boys if that's OK with you.

Dad see 2 Drs this week as well as the dentist.  He had his teeth cleaned & checked & they found 1 cavity.

I had to move stuff around in the basement so the men would have room to work.  Now there is stuff I'd like to get rid of - Lar said he'd do it but when is my question.  It could look nicer & I hope it will sometime in the future.

Barbara is the one who works a lot with Scott so she went to the M.D. with Lynn & Bob to hear what he thinks - he said some children don't talk til a later age so no worry.  She also had to sit in on a conference with the speech therapist.  He is speaking words & understands when spoken to.  Lynn was older when Scott was born & it was a hard delivery & she worries a lot.

Last week I roasted the turkey Dale got from work.  Sure am glad I invested in the Nesco Roaster.  A week ago I defrosted the freezer so for awhile it is clean & free of frost.  It gets done once a year during a cold freeze.

Hope Andy feels OK today & didn't miss his perfect attendance record.

I'm hoping for an early spring so I can start walking again & get out of the house.

Things are as usual around here.

Sunday, February 7, 1993

Ted & Pat Benson called & wanted to meet us for supper so we met at Noiban's, as you aren't rushed there. We sat & talked over 2 hours.  It was good to see them.

And we had a good time Fri. nite with Joyce & Gen.  Joyce is so funny so there never was a dull moment.  Had a pot roast dinner & brownies a la mode & it was good.

This A.M. (6:45) Barb woke us up saying, "Dad, the furnace is making a lot of noise."  He investigated & I got Dale up & it was that belt again & Dale was able to fix it.  We'll have to have it checked.  And I was sleeping so peacefully.

The van needs a fuel pump - the noise is getting louder.  Sat Barb & I were at the Mall & coming home, turning a corner the car slowed down & Barb tho't it was going to stop.  Dale has ordered a fuel pump but hasn't been in a hurry to fix it.  He will Mon nite.  Dad doesn't like to drive it.  We got a crack in the windshield so we got that repaired.  The furnace deal shook Dad up so he didn't go to church.

Dad got a letter from the Bishop concerning his 50th anniv. of ordination.  They are honored at Synod but Dad isn't sure he wants to go thru all that.  And after church Gary mentioned the 50th Anniv. & wondered how to celebrate.  He'd like Dad to preach but he'd never do that.  His medication is hard on his nerves.  They might have a coffee hour after church & I think Dad could take that.  50 years is along time.

Nascar racing is back.  Those who won the pole spot last yr. raced today.  It was a 2 part race & Dale Earnhardt won both of them & that made Dale very happy.  He had his Dale E. shirt on.  Next Sun is the Daytona 500 race.  I have come to enjoy the races.  Dale roots for those who drive Chevies or Pontiacs.  No Fords in his future!

Have you watched Dr. Quinn on Sat. nites.  We enjoy it.

Yesterday was cold & a good day to clean the freezer.  We put the food on the front porch while we defrost it & it's nice to have it clean & in order again.

I got my 5th snow globe.  It has 2 children on a sled with a dog beside them.  It is nice.  Never thought I'd start a collection but I can't resist.

Guess I've covered our news.

Dad talked to Ruth last nite & also Stella who is there for awhile.  Stella hopes to move to a Minneapolis retirement center when there is an opening.