Saturday, March 13, 2004

I slept in til 6:30 A.M. -- you know "early to bed, early to rise....."  But I can't sleep in -- my body's schedule is bed at 10 pm, up at 5 A.M.  Dale's late week I get up & doze in my chair. I get restless if I stay in bed. I'm the odd one.

The paper doesn't come on Sat til later.  Around 8:30 this A.M.  I made apple bread for Dale's snack & since I had left over pie crust & it was enough for a pie, even if the edge wasn't that pretty, I made an apple pie.  I had my first piece at lunch -- it is delicious!

Barb is taking care of Scott from 11-3 pm.  Lynn & Marisa went to Erie & Bob had a funeral to go to.

Barb didn't go to Jamestown as it snowed.  She had hoped to go today but plans to go tomorrow.

It snowed overnite but it is nice this aft.  Lots of sunshine.  The furnace still runs in this March weather.

This A.M. Dale said he had a scratchy throat.  At lunch he said he wouldn't be going to Jamestown as he doesn't feel that good.  He'll stretch out on his bed & watch TV, taking it easy.

I got a cookbook in the mail - - Light & Tasty from the place in Greendale, Wi.  I get the Quick Cooking magazine & another one & then they started putting out a cookbook of a collection of recipes from their magazines.  I sat down &^ looked thru it right away.  That will happen many times.

This A.M. I put a beef roast in the crock pot, and it smells good.  Mashed potatoes & boiled cabbage for me.  And actually a dessert just for us.  Guess I was ambitious for once.  That doesn't happen very often.

Sun. aft Mar 14

Just finished watching the Mets beat Minn. with a 9th inning run, in a spring practice game. Good to see "our" guys in a game.  Finally they have a good centerfielder -- Mike Cameron from a Seattle trade.  He has a good personality & leadership ability.  Good to hear the familiar voices of the announcers   Dave O'Brien & Tom Seaver.

Dale still isn't feeling that good.  If he doesn't feel better tomorrow, he'll stay home from work.

Millie is in her new apt. now -- as of yesterday.  I'll let her get settled before I call.

Now I'm watching golf -- also in Fla. where it has warm temperatures.

I switched between golf & college basketball & saw Wisc. beat Ill. in an easy game for Wisc. Bet you all were happy to see a win.

UB lost to Cleveland but they said the entire team will be back next y ear so they are hopeful for next year.

The beef roast was delicious yesterday.  We had chicken & spaghetti tonite.  Dale hasn't lost his appetite.  He said he feels better tonite.

Mon the 15th

Dale went to work today even if he didn't feel 100%.  He chose the right time to take it easy & not miss work.  Sat & Sun.

We've also been wondering when you might visit.  But we know it isn't easy to plan when Andy & Ed are involved in sports.  But we still hope for a visit, whenever you can make it.

We got groceries today because we are suppose to get a snow storm Tues. with several inches predicted.

I hope it won't be too long before we see some warmer weather that stays awhile.

What a disappointment for Albert & Cyndi to think they'd be getting a baby & it didn't work out.  Hope it won't be too long before they have good news.  By the way Paula Carey had another son -- the first was was adopted from Russia.

Wed. nite Larry will just come for dessert.  The Rotary club has a pancake supper & Kim got tickets from her friend.  Lar will take Mike B. & Kim will come here.

Gen just called.  She broke her arm.  Just one more bad thing for her.  They went to the emergency room -- it happened last Thurs -- but they didn't put it in a cast.  She sees the Dr. tomorrow.  Millie called her last nite & said Linda was helping her get settled.

Wed.  I'm waiting for Barb to get going so I can wash the kitchen floor.  Meant to do it yesterday but the weather was so awful (9" of snow & now school) I lost my desire to work. Today is brighter -- have everything all set to wash the floor.  Yesterday Barb shoveled twice at our house & at Bert's.  It seems the big storms are on the Tues. Dale works til 8 pm.  He did shovel when he came home & before he ate his dinner.  

Just took a pumpkin pie from the oven - I love the spicy smell.

They have to add 3 days to the school calendar due to all the snow days & they had to change graduation day.

Yesterday our mail didn't come til around 3 pm.  It wasn't the regular postman -- he's usually here about 10:30 or so.  We kept looking  as we get USA Today delivered by mail.  In fact I just got the bill for another year.

Thurs AM

Last nite Dale told me the drain the basement was clogged.  We couldn't flush the toilets. At 7 AM I called Roto Rooter & he is here now working on it.  I still hope to wash 2 loads of clothes & towels today.  Without water there isn't much you can do but wait.  Dale still took a shower but it was a quick one.  This happened once before, years ago.  The tree roots get in the way.

Last nite Kim had a pain in her back.  Last Sat. she just picked up the clothes basket & felt a twitch.  Did you feel any ill effects, Paul, from all your lifting.

We can flush again!  And I have my first load in the washer.  It cost me 117.00 with senior citizen discount.  That wasn't bad.  A nice young man.  H e said don't be afraid to flush twice as more water keeps the pipes clear.  And if trees are cut down the roots can live as long as 10 years.  All is well with us now.

Tuesday, May 7, 2002

We got the necessary items for Lar's birthday dinner today.  Yesterday we got flowers & this aft. Barb is planting pots.  We chose pansies, petunias & dahlias plus allysum or however it is spelled .  They are looking nice.

This A.M. I made pie crust & banana bread.  Then my usual Tues. duties.  We're having an easy supper -- pizza & salad.  We are trying frozen Freschetta on Kim' recommendation.  They had a pizza party & tried different froz. pizzas.

I wrote what we are getting for Lar's birthday:  cherry beer but you can only get it in Erie & Kim's friend Nancy is going to Erie & will pick it up.  I did find a Snow Baby soccer figure so he has a little gift to open with his special "50 year" birthday card.

Fri. nite we are going out to celebrate Mother's Day.  I never like to go out on Mother's Day as it is usually so crowded.  So I prefer Fri. & we will go to Fernwood -- just out of Warren toward Sheffield.

The children's part of the library looks so nice.  Looking in you see a small arc of computers.  I never go into that room so I just get a glimpse of it.

Scott was telling Barb he is making bombs.  She cautioned him about talking about it in school as he could get in trouble.  She doesn't think it is true as he talks a lot about his ideas.  Lynn had a call from the school about his swearing on the school bus.  Poor Lynn & she wants everything so perfect.

Sat. Kim is planning a party for Lar.  Some of the couples they are with a lot.

I pressed Dale's birthday shirt & tan Dockers in case he wants to wear them Fri. nite.  He usually wears good jeans when we go out.  Now he has another pair he can wear.

I wonder -- I didn't find out what Lar wanted for his birthday dinner as I think he didn't tell me til Thurs. & by then your letter was set to mail on Fri.  I'll report:  turkey breast, sweet potatoes & apple pie.  I wrote to Gen & usually my letters are similar --i.e. news -- so sometimes I don't know what I write to whom.  I also wrote to Darla.  I'm glad you aren't an English prof & grading my letters.  At times they sound mixed up when I reread them.

Did I write I got another Country Cook Book & it has some good recipes.  With all the cook books I have, menu planning should be easy but it isn't.

Next Tues. is the Bible Study at church & I bring rolls for coffee.  Wed. at 1 pm I have a dentist applt & cleaning.  My usual schedule will be upset & somethings won't get done.

What room will JoAnna want to paint next.  Your bedroom color sounds nice.  A good way to get a room housecleaned or spring cleaning done.

Your writing about your library work never is boring for me.  I like to hear what is going on in your lives -- meaning the entire family.

Barb decided she needs more plants  so we'll go for more.

Things are happening in Warren.  Maybe it will wake up people to see that we need to move out of the rut the city is in & that improvements & jobs are needed.  The commissioners are in the hot seat, esp. Hunter.

Mary Ann Carey had surgery on her back in Fla.  They should be home any time now.

Larry & Mike were up in Buffalo a couple of weeks ago for Paula's husband's 40th birthday.  Kim was invited but she didn't go.  Mike & John (husband) became good friends as they were neighbors when they lived in Warren.  John would spend time with Mike.  I think sometimes Mary Ann & Jack come on too strong for John & he needed an escape.

The pizza was pretty good but rather spicy for my taste buds.  Good crust.

Barb gave me a rose plant for Mother's Day.  It will go in with the roses Lar planted years ago.  They are pretty but don't last to pick for a vase.  This one is a regular ever-blooming plant by Martha Stewart so it had better be good.  I might buy a 2nd one myself.  I like roses in a bud vase.  Barb's next job is to hose off the porch & get the porch furniture down from the attic.  Soon we should be able to sit out there & watch the cars go by.

I have to send my health insurance payment in each month by the 25th.  I completely forgot Apr. so it was late.  Now I put the envelopes I have addressed for each month by my church offering envelopes so I won't forget.

Sunday, April 16, 2000

Since I wake up early, I chose to go to First Luth. at 8 A.M.  Our service at St. Paul's, with First Luth., was at 11 A.M. & that would be a longer service with extra music, etc.  Besides Pastor Risher, I was the only one from St. Paul, but I know many from First so it wasn't that strange.  I was home a little after 9 AM & then made breakfast.  It's a lovely day.

We had a nice time last nite with Lar & Kim.  We were able to sit on the deck for awhile but had dinner inside.  Kim bo't a birthday cake fro Bi Lo -- they have a good bakery.  It's been a time of celebration -- Mon. eating out; Thurs. birthday cake (left over) for Dale & Dale got to open Lar & Kim's gift & y our gift that arrived on Thurs.  He likes the #3 sweatshirt.  He says thanks to you all.  Barb will open her gifts on Thurs.  A fun time.

I asked Kim about "On the Record".  She said they are fined for punishment.  Today kids (certain ones) have no respect for anyone & don't want to be told "Don't do that", or "Don't curse me" & the officials say the teachers don't have to take anything from the kids.  It's gotten bad -- the next will be hitting, etc.

Last nite Kim told us of 5 7th grade girls who came to a dance.  It was from 9-11:30 followed by a "lock in", otherwise known as a sleepover.  Shortly after the dance started, 1 of the girls said to Kim I have to leave -- my mother is picking me up.  Kim said -- you know once you are here you can't leave (some came only for the dance).  She went back to the other girls & she could see them plotting.  Shortly after another came with the same plea.  They must have wanted to meet some boys.  The 1st girl came up again -- Kim was disgusted & decided to call the girl's parents.  The girl didn't know her telephone number!  Kim had it on the permission slips.  In the meantime the 1st girl's mother came & started screaming & swearing at the girl -- she was grounded & sneaked out. So now she's grounded for 6 weeks.  By the time these girls are 10th graders, they'll be something else.  No one slept during the lock in -- played basketball or other games, watched TV, etc. At 5 A.M. 2 boys tried to sleep as Sat. was the 1st day of trout season & they were going fishing & figured they should sleep a couple hours.

I haven't started any spring cleaning.  USA Today had an article on spring cleaning & how many find it hard to do it.  Even I don't wash the kitchen floor every week.  I spot clean it & give it a good wash every 3 weeks.  I'm lucky Barb & Dale take care of their rooms & Dale vacuums the stairs & L. R. weekly.  The house looks OK as long as I keep it picked up & see that things are in order.  That is fine for me.

Mon the 17th.  Was up at 6 A.M. & after I ate breakfast I started on my chores.  Stripped Dale's bed & then mine.  Both are made.  Washed a load & part of it is in the dryer.  Cleaned the little bathroom in the basement & the shower.  Had done either for awhile.  Dale is good to keep it up but was in the mood to clean them.

Dale has 2 walls painted -- the draperies were taken down so they are washed & set to hang.  The frame of the windows are varnished wood.  Wrong adj. as they don't varnish anymore & I can't get teh correct term.  If he wants them hung up he'll have to move the bed so I can clean them. No heavy moving for me anymore.  I'll ask him at lunch.  Maybe your letter about housecleaning got me in the mood to clean.

Today it is suppose to rain -- we've had a lot of rain.  The dam is a little above summer level.  We had a nice weekend.  If you did, I bet you worked outside.

Last Sat. the 15th Paula Carey was suppose to move their stuff from Carey's garage -- they have their house in Buffalo now.  T hey changed it to Good Fri. & Lar can't help them.  Mike Brindis can help but not much due to his heart.  Can't lift.  And Dale can't help as he works.  And they have a piano to move onto a truck.  Paul will find out the world doesn't stop for her.  Lar has to go to Erie Fri. aft. to pick up something for his work.

Have a bill to mail so will get this ready to mail.  Happy Easter to all.

Monday, March 13, 2000

Called Carolyn M. last nite to tell her they won't make a copy of a photographer's picture because of the copyright.  So she'll contact Ruth to see if she can find out about a copy -- if the studio is still there, etc.  Carolyn mentioned she invited you folks for Easter dinner.  She also mentioned Signe had a spell of pain but is OK now.  She just hopes Signe won't suffer a lot of pain.  She just hopes Signe won't suffer a lot of pain.  It's soon 6 months so she's done OK.

Dale went to the junk yard last Sat to look for a wheel rim & found one.  His current rim has a little dent U& of course that can't be.  He put it on after work & it fits so now he has to paint it.  The tire was still on so he threw it away at work & as he did that he noticed a wet vac thrown away & he claimed it.  The 3rd one he's found.  A guy at work would like one -- Dale just repaired the cord on the 2nd one so he'll give it to him.  The 3rd one was still wet -- probably not taken care of & Dale loves to tinker & repair things.  He also found 2 estension cords with a light.  He gave one away & kept one.  What a guy.

The census questionnaire came today.  I don't' own the house anymore -- you kids do -- so I guess I'll put Dale's name as owner.

Barb bot veggie & flower seeds & planted them.  She put them in her room by the window so they'll get the sun.  She planted lettuce for Bert & already they are coming thru.  Bert is pleased Barb did that for her.  Barb did that for her.  She was in advertising & knows Iacocca from Ford & then Gen. Motors, I think.  Before that she was in fashions.  Quite a lady.

Tues. evening.

I'm watching Trauma -- Life in the E.R.  I close my eyes when they start cutting.  It's about accidents, shootings, drugs, etc.

Wed aft.

A beautiful day.  Barb took me to get my blood test & I walked home.  Stopped at CVS & didn't see any sympathy cards I liked so I walked back to Cady's & got some.  Wanted to send one to Tom & Diane Scarcella on the death of his mother.  I made sugar cookies today -- mainly for Torey.  He gets 2 each time he visits us.  Spoiled dog!

I couldn't find my keys last Thurs.  I used them to unlock the car & didn't see them.  I looked in my purse & finally found them.  The purse has 2 zipper pockets & I didn't realize that.  One under the other & I must have absentmindedly put it in the 2nd pocket under the 1st pocket.  I've had the purse several months & never noticed it.

Had a letter from Millie today.  She told me about the funeral of Aunt Esther.  The pastor couldn't go to Gen's for lunch as he had another funeral.  She's looking forward to spring like everyone else.

Thurs p.m.
Cleaned up dishes after dinner.  Lar & Kim's night to come over & we sit around the table & talk.  They said Careys are seriously thinking of selling their house & moving closer to Susan.  She is still having problems -- drinking & they'd like to be closer & Susan would like it.  Last Sat. Lar helped them (Paula & John) move stuff to Carey's garage.  They have a house in Buffalo but it takes time to get it all settled -- loans etc.  Then they'll need help to put it back in the U Haul truck.  They took Lar & Kim out to dinner last Sat. nite to thank Lar for his help.  John found a job up there & likes it much better than the job he had in Warren.

Filled out the census & will mail it tomorrow.  Wasn't sure how to answer who the owner of the house is so I put Dale's name there as he lives here & has a job.  He was saying his paycheck is never the same as they get paid by the job -- how hard it is, etc.  How much times it takes.  If they go over the allotted time to get it finished that's their loss & if they finish in less time that's to their advantage.  He's had some raises so he does all right.

Fri. St. Patrick's Day

This aft. Barb & I went to the Mall & I did some shopping at K Mart.  Stopped at Arby's for supper for Dale & me.

Got your letter today.  Wasn't too surprised about Joan & Alan.  Glad she had the gumption to leave him.  Can't remember who told me but one summer I hard that Mim told Joan that any time she wanted to leave Alan she could come to them in Beloit.  And Alan demanded the money she earned & then Joan had to ask him for money.  Joan is 52 -- maybe there will be some happiness for her now.  The son is 30 & the daughter 29.  There is some time between the youngest but she must be around 20 or so.  I'm sure Ruthie must have left something to the girls & that might have helped Joan to decide to leave.  She'd need money for a divorce & apt.  They were married in Aug. & the son was born the following Aug.  I remember hearing  Alan could never please his father or get any attention or love from him.  Joan had a self image problem so maybe it was a hopeless situation.  Maybe they should have had help to change themselves for a better marriage.  Wonder if Ruth will ever tell me about the divorce.

It was COLD this AM when I walked to get my hair done.  26 &  blowing.  It still felt good to be able to walk.

Guess I've covered the news here.

Monday, March 6, 2000

I'll start a letter & keep adding to it.  Just got home from the Dr.  He said there was a membrane in my right eye & he'd "pop" it & I have to go again to get my eyes tested to see if the prescription has changed.  Couldn't do both today.  On Tues of that week I see Dr. McNett & need to get a blood test first.  On Mon the 20th I get my eyes examined.  He lasered it.  Said I'd see better now.  It hasn't been clear vision for that eye -- it's the one that had the cataract.  Beautiful day so I walked home.

Now it's 9:20 & I'm relaxing.  LCW was a workshop & the women tied a quilt.  They are given to "Safe Place" & the women are really thrilled to get a quilt.  It was a nice time & Marge Woods& I worked well together.  I'm watching Homicide now.

Tues A.M.  A few things I forgot.  Arlene Hornstrom had a stroke & is now in rehabilitation.  Do you remember the Rapps -- Jim and Carol.  Had a son, now in California & a daughter Pam.  Carol was sick a lot -- ended with cancer & she died shortly after Dad died.  Carol's father was Jim Greenlund & he died a couple of years ago.  Now his wife Alice, a sister of Myrtle Wallin, & Jim Rapp started going together & will be married in June.  Alice was the mother-in-law but she was Jim Greenlund's 3rd wife.  1 divorce, 1 death.  But I'm happy for them as Alice is a person who needs a husband & Jim Rapp will have a stable home life.  I'm sure the last years of Carol's life were hard ones for Jim & financially backbreaking.  I'm sure Alice was left financially OK.  Of course there is talk but who cares.  I think it will be good for both of them.

Just a note on Wed.  It's soon bedtime.  Dale said he might sell the Monte Carlo to Sam or he might not.  He realizes he doesn't need 3 cars.  He'd never part with the El Camino & he likes the Blazer for winter driving.  What a dilemma.

Fri A.M. the 10th

In this A.M. paper there is an article on the new State Police Barracks being built.  It states that Wm L. Gordon is the Station Commander.  Is the name familiar -- he's Dale's age & Rose's nephew.  Her twin Violet is his mother.

Winter has returned!  We still  plan to go to Jamestown this aft. as only flurries are predicted & Barb has wanted to go for some time.

Yesterday at the beauty shop (nice to have curl again) Louise Borg was having her hair done & she whispered in a disgusted voice "have you heard Jim Rapp is marrying Alice Greenlund?"   I said "yes".  Her hair had just been washed so there was nothing more said.  But I knew what she thought of it.  I'm sure many agree with her.  Marge Ristau does, I know.  And her sister Martha Andersen would.

Last nite Lar did my taxes for me.  I just have to pay state & local taxes.  Dale has his ready to send in & he expects money back as too much is taken out.  He's still wavering on the Monte Carlo & he said now he wants $5,000.00 for it.  Figures he put 7,000.00 in it at least.

He has the El Camino in Carey's garage while they are in Fla.  Both Paula & husband are working in Buffalo; sold their house & haven't found one in Buffalo so Paula wants to store some things in the garage.  So we'll be playing "musical cars" again.

Last Thurs. I mentioned Lar did my taxes so Kim walked Torey home for his exercise.  She checked the messages on the answering machine.  A very sexy voice said "Bambi call me, Bambi call me."  Didn't leave a telephone number & Kim couldn't remember any "Bambi".  She punched whatever it is that gives you the no. dialed but she wasn't familiar with it.  When Lar got home -- he had to check at Carey's -- she asked "who is Bambi".  Larry didn't know & off hand he didn't remember the phone no.  When she played the message Larry said "that's Monty", playing a joke on you.  She was really upset for awhile. So Kim sent him a email.

Fri aft. Barb & I went to Jamestown.  Had lunch at a new Ruby Tuesday close to the mall on mall property.  We had the salad bar & it was excellent.  It was a nice change.  Neither of us did much shopping -- didn't see anything we needed or caught our eye.

Dale & Sam looked at the Monte Carlo this aft. & Dale doesn't think he can part with it.  He put too  much of himself into it to let it go.  When he's not married he can afford the registration, insurance, etc. for 3 cars.

This has probably been enough reading for you for this time.

Interesting to realize Eddie could see a "messy house".  You ended your letter saying "Now I've probably made you feel like cleaning".  The letter arrived on Fri, close to noon & on Fri, Sat & Sun. I just do the necessary -- mainly meal preparation.  I'm rejuvenated by Mon. & start all over again on my schedule.  When you're almost 80 cleaning isn't a priority.

Sunday, October 17 1999

"Boxer" by Eddie

Just finished putting a puzzle together - 1000 pieces & everyone was there.  Some pieces were missing & because of the rug, they are hard to spot.  I get down on my hands & knees & feel around & find the missing pieces.  If I don't do that the vacuum cleaner "eats" them never to be found again.

Thanks for your flowers.  They are very beautiful.  I have another bouquet - altar flowers.  Carole Anderson always has them on this Sun. in memory of her parents.  And she thought so much of Dad that he always got one of the bouquets.  He would visit them, etc.  Visitation means so much to members & that is what they remember Dad for - one of the things.  Now I got the flowers this year.

Tonite (6 pm reservation) we go out to eat at "Bones & Ribs", in area opposite Jackson Valley Country Club & golf course.  It burned down but was rebuilt.  I has had other names as well & owners.  Suppose to be pre3tty good - time will tell.

In my bedroom we have a heart theme as the quilt has hearts on it & so does the border by the ceiling.  So we tho't a heart shaped wreath would look nice on one wall.  Kim decorated one & gave it to me & it does look so nice.  Barb & Dale gave me Betty Dixon chocolates &^ a candle, votive type, that fits into a black wired heart.  The candle holder part is a heavy glass "thing" you used to see on elec. poles.  Dale told me the correct word but I can't call it to mind.  You'll see it sometime.

We're going to have a real tree again this Christmas.  This aft. Kim & Lar were going to choose trees.  Mark them for cutting in Dec.

Paula Carey - don't know her married name - starts a new job Nov. 1 in Buffalo.  S he has been working for Northwest Savings in the mortgage dept.  The new job means more money.  Her husband is a lawyer & had to get a Pa. law license & now he's not sure what he will do.  Paula will stay up there & come home weekends.  They haven't been here that long.

Mon. the 18th

We left at 5:45 for Ribs & Bones & had a very good dinner.  I got the 1/3 portion of ribs, Lar the 1/2 portion & Dale got steak & ribs.  If you eat a regular portion of ribs they gift you a baseball type cap.  So the portions are generous.

When we left the Mets-Braves were tied at 2.  When we got home it was the 9th inning & still tied so I didn't miss that much.  It was so exciting, as you can testify to.  When the phone rang I knew it was a call from Middleton only this time it was Eddie.  He carries on a good conversation.

Now to football - did you notice the Penn State Q.B.'s name is Richard (pronounced with the French accent) Kelly.  Their up & coming Q.B.

Got my tooth fixed today.  Then we went to the mall.  On the way back to the car, we noticed a couple looking at the van.  When they realized it was our car they spoke & said the van was in such good condition.  Told him we bo't it new & it was a '91 with less than 30,000 miles.  They really tho't it looked newer.  They were from Eastern Pa. & had a Scotty puppy who was so cute.  The man was so friendly, just like Warren Hollertz.

Christmas club checks will be coming soon & so far I've had just 1 suggestion from you people.  More please!  Remember I shop early.

I washed my winter jacket & somehow lost the "thing" that works the zipper & don't know where to find or look for it.  Barb has a nice jacket she doesn't like because it has a couple of tiny spots on it.  I'll look for some solvent to see if they'll come out & then wash it.  It has a zip-in lining.  I like it & a little spot won't bother me.  You can hardly see it.  Sometimes I get going too fast & end up with too many loops.

I had a nice birthday, thanks to my children.  I don't feel like 79.  I don't think I told you this or maybe I did as your letter was late.  He wished his Dad was as active as I.  Oh yes, I mentioned on the phone.  You'll have to excuse me - I'm a year from 80!

Got another puzzle to put together.  But I wanted to finish this & get it off tomorrow when I mail Gen & Ed's anniv. card.

Monday, September 6, 1999

It's a hot, humid day.  I was up at 5:45 A.M. to bake Danish & make a coffee cake.  Did a wash, went to KMart & stopped at Hatch Patch for corn & peaches. 

Lar & Kim had company yesterday at camp.  Between 40-50 friends.  They invite Paula (Carey) & her husband & Susan is here visiting so Kim said it was OK to bring her.  Her husband went to the Penn State game so Careys met her at State College & bro't her home here.  Her little girl is adorable.  She told her husband he could go BUT she could go to her folks, she wanted new linens & some money!

The trip was great.  I like riding with Hollertz as they are in no rush & stop often.  Warren is a coffee drinker.  At Gen's we were on the go - doing things, having fun.  The casino was fun - so large, so beautiful (colors, etc.) great view - would be lovely to see the fall colors & general excitement.  I'd go again - just to watch & have a nice meal.  And of course going to the Mall was great.  Millie is great to shop with as she knows "the ropes" after working at Steiger's women's dept.  Edith took up - Gen went to the Dr. with Ed.

The church in Wilbraham & East Longmeadow are working together to build a Habitat home.  Ed is on the committee so a lot of the planing falls on him & he will help in the building.

Tomorrow I see the eye Dr. & I'm glad as my eyes tear a lot & it's hard to read the first thing in the A.M.

On Wed. I see McNett & see how my thyroid is doing.

I have A&E on the TV & they are showing your favorite program all day.

I got Andy's birthday gift today.  I'll get it off one of these days.  I don't see anything about "Pokeman" around here.  But I have til Dec. to find out.

You mentioned you had ideas for you & JoAnna for Christmas but we got sidetracked & we never got back to it.  The next letter might have the answer.

The Mets are playing San Fran. on ESPN as well as the NYC station.  I never dreamed I'd be rooting for Ricky Henderson but he has been so good for the Mets.  And he's 40 yrs. old.  Met ahead 3-0 in the 7th inning.

It got so humid & turned on the A.C.  I tho't it would be cooler & planned on the pork loin roast I had in the freezer.  That means I turn on the oven.

Tues A.M.

Last nite Barb & Lar got into it.  She thinks she should get paid for what she's doing around the house - painting, etc.  She said Lar got paid for the steps but he didn't.  They were a birthday & Christmas gift for Dad & me.  She went out in a huff & didn't eat supper.  Lar mentioned she was living at home & if she had an apt. it would cost much more.  They think (Dale somewhat) think it's OK to live at home for next to nothing. But again if they weren't at home I wouldn't live here alone.  I like it this way so I keep my mouth shut.

Did you notice Matt Voight got caught D.U.I.  His bro. did some time ago & it never made the papers.  Makes a difference what your name is.  Mr. Carey isn't driving now - nothing in the paper about a court appearance, etc. for him.

Want to mail this when I go to the Dr.

Saturday, April 12, 1997

It's a cold rainy day & I had to walk to get my hair done.  It's Dale's Sat. to work & Barb is taking care of Scott while Lynn & Bob are away for the weekend.

Kim talked to Ann Lesser this past week & Ann mentioned the new Lib. director is a man but she didn't say his name.  Ann is thru the end of Apr. & the new dir. comes near the end of May.

I got a book The Cousins by Rona Jaffe but it didn't appeal to me so I didn't finish reading it.  Now I'm reading The Daughter of Cain by Colin Dexter & I'm enjoying it. 

Just wrote a note to Millie who will celebrate her 82nd birthday the 17th.  Millie, Gen, & Edith (Ed's sister) usually go out to lunch at a nice place on birthdays.

Next Tues. I'll be able to watch the Mets on ESPN when they celebrate Jackie Robinson Day.  Baseball has gotten off to a bad start in some areas with all this lousy weather we've been having.  And the Cubs haven't won a game as of the 12th of Apr.  The Mets are a little better!!!  Not much.

Barb didn't look forward to this weekend with Scott.  He is such a rascal.

Thanks for the letter & the pictures.  What a wonderful week you had.  Enjoyed the descriptions of it all & know it was an experience you'll all treasure for a long time.  What a great experience for Andy & Eddie.

I'm watching "The Brian Piccolo Story" & it sure is a touching one.  Because of that I'm not getting much written.

Dale had a nice birthday this past week.  He managed to get home for a 6 pm dinner.  Talk about someone dedicated to his job.  That's about all he does now.  His "summer" car is now being given some repair & a new paint job.  Some of the floor was being eaten away & will be replaced.  At first Dale wondered if it would be worth the money.  But the fellow doing the work said he could do it so Dale agreed.

We are enjoying the Masters Golf on T.V.  I'm hoping Tiger Woods goes all the way.  What a beautiful golf course.

Soon time for lunch.  Barb & Scott just came by.  Will finish later.

Barb said Scott went to be at 9:30 pm and slept thru til 6:30 am.  This A.M. she took Marisa to her cousin's & she'll sleep overnite.  So Barb just has Scott.  She'll be home Sun. aft.

Oh yes, Paula Carey called Fri. to let me know she'll want the house key between 7-8 pm Sun. nite.  She's coming alone, why I don't know, except perhaps he hasn't taken his Pa. law exam.  She starts a new job Mon. A.M. at one of the banks.

Barb & Scott just stopped again.  They went to the Mall to break up the monotony.

Even on Sat. Dale doesn't get home too early & then he's gone to Seaman's to look for car parts.  It's also different with Barb gone & it would be pretty lonesome if we were alone.  So I'm glad Barb & Dale are home with us.

At 2:15 T.B.S comes on with Atlanta vs. Chicago.  I can't stand the Atl. announcers but I'll tone down the audio.  Then golf at 3:30 & that is interesting.  It's time for Chic. to win its first game.  Hope the weather is O.K.

I'm written out.  Things are pretty good with Dad.

P.S.  For Andy & Eddie Cady's store over town sells the Beanie Babies.  They had some this week & sold out fast.  Next time I'll try to get over & get one for each of you.  Any special one you'd like.  Tell your Dad & he can write it in a letter or you can tell me when we talk on the telephone.  Love you, Grandma.

Friday, January 17, 1997

It's cold here with periods of snow.  At 4 pm.  I defrosted the freezer today - put the contents on the front porch & went to work on it.  Had everything back in by lunch time.

No school today - due to blowing, snowing & cold.  Kim & Taury stopped by this AM for coffee.  At 1:30 she & Nancy were going cross country skiing.  Cold for that.

I''m making veg. soup for supper - to go with a fish sandwich.  I've made the Blender Banana Bread twice & we like it a lot.  Will make another one Sat. as I've got too many bananas.

Paula Carey called today to let us know she & her husband will arrive tomorrow & I'm to put the key under the mat for them..  She would like to move back here & he has an interview with a law office.  Bill Hill Jr. is retiring & also another whose name I don't recall.

Thanks for your 2 letters Paul.  I can just see Eddie raising his hand & making the comments.  Good for him.

We watched Dole get his Medal of Freedom & I tho't it was a very nice thing to do.  Both Clinton & Dole had good talks.

I sent an order to Penney's & it came on Wed & I'm very pleased.  A Leslie Fay dress - shirtwaist style, pleated skirt in a jade print & I love it.  Looks nice on.  Have to return a pair of slacks as the zipper doesn't work right.  I like the color, etc. so I'll reorder.  Easiest way for me to shop.  Easter comes early this year & maybe it will be too cold & wintry for a spring dress.

Scott told his mother Barb was his mother.  So Lynn said, "What am I?"  "You're my girlfriend," he replied.

We aren't going for groceries tonite so it will be after I get my hair done.  Last week I walked to my appt.  It wasn't too bad.  Barb said she'd take me over tomorrow.

Green Bay goes to the super bowl & we'll be rooting for them to win.  They should.  We'll be watching & thinking of all of you when they score a TD - towel waving, etc.

Now it's Sun A.M. & again I'm ready for church with time to spare.  It's minus 3 & I'm wearing my wool slacks & again will wear my "cold weather coat" - one I only wear for real cold weather.  It's ages old but since it doesn't get much wear, it's in good condition.

Got the pictures & letter yesterday.  I can imagine the Super Bowl setting - lots of towel waving & toasting when G. B. wins.

Kim always enjoys reading your letters.  Larry has a 4 pm soccer game & meets with Nancy at noon to discuss plans for the Dr.'s new quarters to be.  Lar has drawn up all the plans.  They can't get started until the 1st floor tenant moves out.  Kim & Taury will stop by this aft.  They got some kind of strips - roller to make it easier to roll out the freezer & fridge so we can clean behind it.  Dale was reading you should do that yearly & vacuum the coils, etc.  So now he'll have a job to do.   He likes to do that & I'm glad he does - he is a big help.  He cleaned & shined the kit. cupboards with Liquid Gold & that really improved them.  He said they were quite dry & really needed the work.  All you "guys" are good workers.

Yesterday after lunch Dad said "Who will take me home, now."  I told him he was home.  He gets muddled like that at times.

Happy Days it is suppose to warm up this week.  I feel the need to get out & walk a bitg.

May 1989

We're watching the Mets & even if they "stink" I can't give up on them.  Maybe they'll get going one of these days.

Paula Carey [neighbors' daughter] graduated from college; will be working in Philly, but now is on a month's tour of Europe.  A gift from her folks.  When she saw Kim she said "What have you done to Larry - he's so think & he's losing his hair."  Kim was a little upset & then Paula said "I bet his mom is mad."  I laughed when Kim told us this.  Larry is the same as ever - I don't think he's thin.  He's very busy with extra summer work.

Barb gave me an impatient hanging basket & we put it on the front porch.  We noticed birds flying around it & today when I went to water it, a bird flew out and scared me.  Later we checked on it & there is a nest in it & the bird is sitting on 5 eggs.  Now I'll be afraid to water the plant.  It is a small sparrow-like bird.

I planted some flowers by the side of the house & by the garage.  It got cold last nite. Marigolds by the side of the house.

Last Sun nite we were at First Luth for the Ordination of their new asst pastor.  A woman who is a native of Germany - her folks still in Germany.  We were impressed with her.  A beautiful service.

This month we're going out to eat with our friends on a Mon. nite - next Mon. - & we're going to the Flying @ Ranch at Kellettville.  None of us have been there but those who have say it's nice.

How are things with you & our darling grandson.  We miss you.

All is fine here.