Saturday, January 22, 2005

The snow has arrived & our temp. at 7 AM was 7 degrees.  It won't get much higher.  I look forward to next week as the temp will rise -- 30's.  Happy Day.

Barb is working in the attic.  She found a snapshot she tho't you'd like to see.  Also an "epistle" of Ruth & Rudy's 1971 trip to Sweden.  26 typewritten sheets, 1 side only.  It will be here for you to read sometime in the future.  There are leftover parts of rugs & stuff like that to go & create more space for more stuff.  Barb was thinking of getting rid of her college notes but changed her mind.  Both Barb & Dale have things stored up there.  There is our Christmas decorations, etc. up there.  What do you do without an attic or basement?   Don't gather as much, I'm sure.

Dale's back is much better & he has 1 more appt.  Before he went, he couldn't do any stretching exercises.

Barb plans to clean the freezer today.  When we have zero weather is a good time as we put stuff into large plastic bags on the front porch.  Some things get thrown out as they get pushed back & we don't see them.  She does the work & I sort out what gets thrown away.

Sheila's mother died.  The new girl did my hair yesterday but Sheila will be back next Fri. Her mother went fast.  I wonder why she never went to a doctor.  It must have been a fast form of cancer, as she was full of it.

Sat. aft.

We got the freezer cleaned & going again.  After a cup of tea, Barb went out to shovel the snow.  Next it's Dale's turn.  He bo't a new shovel with a longer handle.  It shouldn't hurt his back now.  Dale didn't finish with a car til after 12 PM.  T hen he put his tools away & brushed the floor.  He couldn't stand thinking of coming to work on Mon. with mud on the floor.  Another perfectionist.

I like the colors of your new dishes.  The movie you saw "In Good Company" sounds very interesting & one that might appeal to me.  When I see ads on TV for new movies, I wonder how people can sit thru them.



After I made Dale's lunch, I made a cake.  Wanted something for dessert & to snack on. Barb suggested the chicken & broccoli dish for supper & cleaning out the freezer I found 3 steaks for Sun. diner.  So I'm set for meals.

The recipe you sent sounds interesting.  I'll try it. I'll let you know the results.

We received the Spring Penney's catalogue & it is fun to look thru on a cold winter day.

I'm skimming thru P. D. James' book "Devices & Desires".  She likes words & uses them too much to suit me.  I like the action better than too much description of the area, rooms, scenery, etc.

Sun. Jan 23

Yesterday I didn't think I'd go to church today.  This A.M. I changed my mind & went to church.  Barb drove me over & I walked home.  The sun is out so it seems warmer.  Don't know if you remember the Bakers.  He worked at the Dam & she was active in the church. They were in church today -- in Wrrn. for friend's 50 wedding anniversary.  They had a girl & a boy.  He was Barb's age & the girl Dale's age.  Chuck & Penny Baker.

Talked to Denise Johnson today.  Her mother has been in the hosp. in Erie & now they want to put her in a home in Ohio.  The family can't understand that.  It's hard on husband Bob -- visiting her in Erie.  Surely there must be a place closer to home.

I finished P. D. James books.  I tried to cheat by looking at the ending but it didn't help so I finished the book & enjoyed it even tho her writing isn't my favorite.

We couldn't have the annual meeting t church as we didn't have a quorum.  Too many afraid of the weather & stayed home.

Soon football time.  I don't care who wins the first game, but I hope the Steelers can do it. Last nite we watched a program on the life of Jerome Bettis & it was very interesting.

Barb is shovelling again.  Dale's back is still a little tight.

Thurs the 27th

Jan 26, yesterday was 60 years since we got married.  That's a long time.

Torey felt better this week.  Someone fed him some spoiled food,k but not on purpose -- just a mistake.  They were up that nite with him several times.  Lar walked him home & they stopped several times on the way.  The soccer team is doing good winning games.

It's been cold again & I hope it will soon warm up.

Today I made choc. cookies with 1/2 marshmallow on top, then iced.  It is Bob's birthday so a little treat for him & the rest of the family.

Barb & I were working on the puzzle & watching TV when the lights went out.  Black, black, black.  We got candles lit & then the lights came on.  Then we had to set clocks.  Barb called Bert but the lights didn't go out there.  Transformer in Starbrick.

Sam Baughman & Nancy have been having problems.  She went to Fla. but she called Sam & as of yesterday he is on his way to bring her back.  Dale thinks Sam is crazy.

We were disappointed the Steelers couldn't win, but better luck next year.  I'm ready for baseball.  The Mets have been busy & I hope it pays off.  No matter what, they are my team.

Saturday, February 28, 2004

I did my usual Sat. A.M. baking.  Coffee cake, & rolls for the freezer.  I like to have Danish on hand & they were getting low.  Lunch is over & I'm watching gold on TV. It is very interesting to watch.

We got a misses woman's catalog from Penney's & both Barb & I were surprised to see dresses, etc. that we wouldn't mind wearing.  Finally, as so many past pages were not very interesting.  Maybe the sales were down.

Barb isn't feeling good today -- headache.  It started yesterday.

If you watch the Weather Channel, you know we are under a "high" & the weather is so nice & much warmer.  We're enjoying it while we can.

Yesterday I took some of my slacks to store in the attic & took down spring things.  Not that I'll be wearing them yet, but you know the bats like our attic & I don't' care to go up there then.

By the time you read this, the library should be back to normal & I'm sure you have a big sigh of relief. It sounds wonderful.

Are you going to see "The Passion of the Christ"?  It holds no interest for me -- I prefer to read the Passion Story in the Bible.  I know it was a "gory" story but it is the meaning that is important.  Christ died to forgive us our sins.



Dale is cleaning out his closet today & getting things ready to give to the Goodwill, who have facilities at the Mall now.  Barb & I have accumulated a few bags to bring there.  If I can maintain my present weight, I'll have slacks for them next Fall.

Sun the 29th.

Still watching golf -- no NASCAR today.  It's Tiger vs. Love.  It's match play & fun to watch.

Think I mentioned Alice Nasman sits with us in church.  She was saying she doesn't know if she should sell her house & get an apt.  She said, "I really would like to be up there" -- looking up towards heaven.  It's 2 years since her husband died.  Not me, I hope to see more of Andy & Ed's lives unfold if I'm lucky enough to live to my 90s.

This A.M. after Dale ate his breakfast, he cleaned around the sink &  behind jars  etc.  He told me he cleaned there & found crumbs.  And we must be careful as ants are attracted to crumbs.  Last year we had trouble with ants, after an absence of several years.

The pastor announced a group asked about seeing "The Passion of the Christ" & those interested could come.  It will be the 1st Sat. in March & then they'll come back to church for coffee & discussion.   I'm still not interested.

Mon. Mar. 1

Tonite I fixed a meal I like.  Meat loaf & scalloped potatoes.  Fixed the pot. I wrote about, for Dale as he likes them better.  Dale said he likes meat loaf if it's made right!  I used a recipe from one of my magazines...eggs, oatmeal, ketchup, Worcestershire & seasoning.  It tasted good to me & it was firm & didn't fall apart.

We got groceries today as it might shower tomorrow.  Besides, I want to make dinner rolls & pie crust tomorrow.  Have to make a good lunch for Dale as it's the Tues. he works til 8 pm.  The weeks go by so fast.

Can't remember if I told you this but Dale said they'll be going to school more often because of the new cars & how they work.

Barb found a mistake in the afghan for Marisa so she thinks she'll have to reknit it.  So now when she knits, she does a few inches & then checks her work.  The mistake is in the first part of the knitting.

Wed the 3rd.

Lar & Kim come tonite so I made a pecan pie this A.M. & started a fresh fruit salad.  Started with grapes & oranges & will add apple & bananas.  We're having chicken.  It seems it's either chicken or pork & steak as a change & it's soon time for steaks.

The snow is melting away.  It's about gone on the opposite side of the st. -- they get the aft. sun.  Our side is dirty & soon gone.  It's the piled up snow from shoveling that takes the longest to melt.

The mail just came & Barb got something from the U. of Wisc. alumni assn.  She left earlier today.  Went to Bert's to check up & then the dentist.  Then to BiLo's for supplies for Bert who will finally be home this week Thurs.

Wed. aft.  Guess what I'm doing -- watching spring training baseball -- Mets vs. L.A.  I know it doesn't count, but the Mets are ahead 3-0.  All 3 runs came in the 1st inning so maybe there will be more.   Fun to see baseball again.  I'll even skip my "soap" but will check in during commercials.  The Mets have a few new players & I'll soon know their names.  It has to be better than last year -- couldn't be much worse.

Thurs. the 4th.

Last nite Lar figured out my state tax so that is out of the way.

This A.M. I took it easy.  Just had 2 loads of laundry.  I'm working on the puzzle Barb bot.  We're having hamburgers & macaroni & cheese for supper.  An easy one.

The Mets started out good in t he 1st inning & then died.  Good it was just a practice game.  The Mets used pitchers to see if they are ready for the big time.  At least baseball will soon start in April.

I get a perm next Mon & I need it.  Barb said she wouldn't have another perm.  Then she went & made an appointment for next Tues. at 5 pm.

Fri.  Just got home from my hair appt.

Bert got home about 7 pm yesterday.  She was a little put out no one was there to greet her.  The one who sleeps overnite didn't get there til 9:30 pm

Saturday, February 7, 2004

Here I am starting a letter & I haven't mailed the one I just sealed yet.  Too hard to get to the mailbox.

This A.M. as I was doing breakfast dishes & looking out the window, it was snowing & dark & I thought how much longer can I endure this weather.  Then I got dressed, made my bed, came downstairs & started dinner rolls.  After awhile, so the dough could rise, I made a coffee cake & my dark period was over.  Baking is one thing I love & I was at peace with the snow.  By the way, it's snowing again (2:30 pm)

Last Thurs when Lar & Kim were here they told us on Fri their furnace didn't work -- they had heaters but it was still cold.  Sat. aft. they went to camp where it was warmer & upon entering there was a terrible smell.  Lar had left poison out for squirrels & figured one died. He has a small opening into the attic & when he opened it, 2 squirrels got out & Lar noticed a dead one, which he threw out.  One was in the kitchen & he got that one & one in the guest room & he got that one.  He found where they were coming in & got it fixed so they can't get in now.  Then Larry sprayed something between the smells it was something else.  Kim lighted candles.  So they had an eventful weekend.  The furnace is fixed.

We got a Penney's home sale catalog & Barb likes some sheets that are on sale.  The old fitted sheets are tight for the new mattress.  The sale is on til March sometime so she'll wait awhile to see if there will be a free postage deal.  Had one that expired yesterday & this catalog came today.

Thurs. we went to the library & I got 3 books.  Catherine Coulter "The Nightingale Legacy" & I'm not sure but I might have read it.  M. C. Beaton "Death of a Dentist" set in Scotland & a small town copper.  I enjoy her stories.  Another new author Luanne Rice "The Secret Hour" -- it was so good & she has written several books I'll be looking for.

Miracle the sun is out & there are snow flurries.

Dad & I always ate out Fri. nite & I still find it hard to prepare a Fri. nite meal.  Last nite Dale had froz. pot pie & Barb had a froz. meal  I fixed scrambled eggs for myself.  Time for me to fix a Fri. meal.  We'll see.  We're having chicken spaghetti tonite & pork chops Sun.

Mon A.M.

I'm doing good on my chores -- the washer & dryer are doing the work right now.  Have to do 2 loads of dark clothes as Dale had a work jacket & hooded sweatshirt this week.

A few weeks ago I mentioned a top I got on sale -- a lavendar fleece cardigan.  I wore this past week & it is warm & feels good against the skin.  Barb got a turtleneck fleece on sale -- just over 6.00 with 75% off plus coupons.  If any are left I'd like one since they are warm to wear when the house is harder to heat.  Interruption -- Barb was up at 9 A.M. so I could get in & clean the bathroom.  Most of my regular chores are done, one more load to go.  This is Dale's early week so I get an early start.  It is nice to have it lighter earlier as then I have more ambition to get going.

Our pastor has relatives in Fla. & they are on a 2 week vacation in Fla.  Ray Forstrom preached yesterday & we are using a more difficult liturgy that is hard to sing.  It would work well with a larger church & choir.  Maybe I'll skip church next Sun. as Pastor Beth will still be away.  Depends on my conscience conscious (I was right the first time) CONSCIENCE!

Over the weekend I finished my books & all were good reading.

Tues. evening

Mailed your letter today when we got groceries so it is really late.  No one likes to mail my letters -- guess it is too hard to stop the car & drop it in the slot.  We got groceries in the A.M. today & then went to the Mall.  I got 2 fleece shirts for a little over 12.00  Put the rose colored one on & then I have a lavendar one -- pullover.  I really like them.

I just made a chicken-macaroni casserole tonite.  Tomorrow we'll have a good meal.  Good Lar & Kim come once a week as I try to have a good meal then.  Got my dessert made today.

You've been busy moving things at the library.  Glad it hasn't affected your back.  Do you do stretching exercises?  It helps.  It must be getting close to completion.  What a happy day that will be.

If Ed starts to entertain, you'll have to set up a schedule for the boys.

Yesterday the weather channel said 40 days til spring.  That sounds nice.

Thurs A.M.

Just got the garbage out -- 3 bags & one bag kept slipping off the piled up snow but it finally stayed put.

Am washing my sheets now & plan to wash my bedspread, a job I've been putting off.

Lar & Kim will be coming on Wed nites for the next 4-6 weeks.  They have a soccer league that plays on Thurs. & they needed help so Lar said he would help out.  Kim likes it on Thurs. nites better as then there is only 1 work day left.

I'm thinking of making cookies & will bring some to Sheila & Sue for Valentine's Day.  A sandwich cooky recipe from St. Paul cookbook.  It's Fran Decker's mother's recipe & it's a good one.

We might go to Jamestown tomorrow -- the weather sounds OK.  Dale said the roads are really bad with potholes.

I'm getting tired of politics on TV.  It will be worse as it gets closer to election in the falls.

This is getting to be an epistle & I think I'm at a standstill so love to all.

P.S.  Kim was saying she knew someone laid off from Seneca Eye Surgeons where Barb L. worked.  They changed their bookkeeping so I suppose those in seniority bumped those with less service.  Too bad for Barb.

Saturday, January 31, 2004

Scott was sick yesterday so Barb went up there as soon as I was thru getting my hair done. So we didn't get to the Mall. This A.M. we went to CVS for a prescription refill & then to the Mall.  Barb got a pair of jeans plus 3 blouses -- 1 style -- 3 different colors.  Blue, off white & tan.  The latter will be a birthday gift from me.  It's a style I like.  I got a pr. of slacks -- my size 16 are too large, esp. in the seat & I don't  like that, & a top on sale -- jacket type, nice for cold days.  I wear 3 layers to feel comfortable in the house.  I only turn up the thermostat on Thurs. when Lar & Kim come.

Last nite Ted Benson called & said they'd like to go to church with me Feb. 1.   He has a small church in Kanesholm much like Chandlers Valley.  They don't heat the church in Jan. & Feb. & no one needed his services so they decided to come here.  Probably want to hear & see our new pastor.  They will pick me up -- it will be nice to see them.

After lunch I made an apple bread -- it is really delicious.  Now I'm watching Senior Skins with Jack N, Arnie P, Lee Trevino, & Tom Watson.

Did I mention Bert broke a couple of ribs & it is painful for her, but she hopes to get back in a couple of weeks.  I will really be glad because Barb will have to get up & get going.  Lately she watches tennis from Australia starting at 10:30 pm & then sleeps in.  I used to try to be quiet but no more.  I like to clean in the A.M. U& I've started to work around it.

Carolyn has a birthday in Feb. & I plan to send her a card as I didn't have her address at Christmas time.  Finally heard from them.  It's also Joyce OConnor's birthday & I have a card for her.

A small town in N.Y. whose name I can't remember has 72" of now & are having trouble to find places to put the plowed snow.  Maybe you saw the report on the Weather Channel. We have 12" & that's more than plenty as far as I'm concerned.

Just got supper into the oven.  Could have put it in the crockpot but I put it off.  So I used the oven bags & then I didn't have the onion soup mix needed.  I told myself to check what is needed for menus but guess I didn't listen.  Looked at another recipe & used canned diced tomatoes with garlic & olive oil.  Dale likes tomatoes so I hope it tastes good.  Also added a bay leaf as that makes for good flavoring.  I've had this roast beef meat in t he freezer & decided I should use it.  Left6overs for tomorrow.  Dale isn't that interested in the Super Bowl -- some NASCAR program is what he'll watch.  Barb & I aren't that interested.  There is golf to watch.  Phil Mickelson finally won a tournament last week.

We have a new sub shop, Quisno I think it is, a franschise - was right the first time but it didn't look right so out with the dictionary -- & Kim & Lar tired them & said they are excellent.  We talk about getting some & Barb said we should do it this week.  I'm all for it & it's up to Barb to get them.  We'll see what happens.  An added push - -coupons worth 2.00 came in the mail.

My puzzle is calling & I have a good start on this letter.

Just remembered -- Dale's Dr. Strassburg is from Madison.  Lar has played either basketball or soccer at the Y with him.  Lar mentioned his brother was Lib. Director in Middleton.  He's a nice "guy" they both say.

Barb might go to Jamestown tomorrow.  There are a few groceries she wants & can only get at Wegman's.

Yesterday's paper said they hope to start the new bridge in May to be finished by Nov.  That will be great.

Later.  Supper was delicious.  Meat tasty & tender.  Enough for leftovers on Sun.

We got the Spring Summer Penney's catalog but I dont' see much that interests me.

Sunday Feb 1.

I think Ted & Pat were impressed with our pastor.  I know Ted thanked her for her message. After church we went to Ponderosa to eat -- we all had the Buffet Bar.  They enjoy visiting around.  This coming Fri. we are suppose to go to Peek'n'Peak for lunch.  We always enjoy going there.  We just hope the weather will cooperate.

A Deacon's Bench was given to the church in memory of Mildred Traub by the Traub, Himes & Darling families.  It is in the hallway you enter from parking lot between the sanctuary & the wing.  It is nice to have to sit on while you put boots on.  Ted used it today.  A nice addition.  We have new blue paraments for next Advent & green paraments are on order. The handicap lift is completed & being used.  So things are happening.

Barb finished her afghan & started one for Marisa's graduation gift.  They are nice.

Feb 3rd

No school today.  At 6 A.M. the radio said sleet so school would have a 2 hr. delay.  When the snow started they changed it.  I bet they'll have to dd onto the school year.  This extended weather is getting me down.  We had 5" & it is heavy snow.  It always comes when Dale has to work til 8 pm.  Barb shoveled here & at Bert's.

I'm lazy these days & don't accomplish much.  Dusted downstairs today & that's about all plus meals.  My puzzle is going slowly.  Only tans & browns to fit in & that is harder.

Fri A.M. the 6th

No school today -- sleet & icy roads.  I'll finish this but I'm not sure it will get mailed today. Too much snow around the mail boxes & we won't be going  out, except for my hair appt. We'll never forget the winter of '04.

More to write but I'll save it for the next letter. Nothing of importance -- just daily happenings.

Friday, August 29, 2003

Before I got my hair done, I went to CVS & picked up a refill prescription  had my hair done; & went to the bank for Sept. expenses.  After I put it in each envelope (food, hair, spend, etc.)  Then Barb & I went to Jamestown.  No decent styles for older women.  Sears now has Lands End & I got a pair of those 29.50 shoes they advertise.   Good for bad weather. Ordered a pair last yr. & the size was way too big.  The 8 1/2 B fit perfectly.  Barb got a pair of light purpose jeans at Penney's.  Stretch material.  I looked for a birthday gift for you Paul, but nothing appealed to me.  So I plan to send money for birthday & you can choose your own sweater or shirt or whatever appeals to you.

We got the Penney's Christmas catalogue this past week.  If you have suggestions, please sent them.  Otherwise it will be money & yo can buy for the boys or they can spend it at after Christmas sales.

Barb & I have talked bout going out to lunch or dinner & we finally went tonite.  I told Dale I wasn't preparing dinner -- I needed a vacation -- & the 3 of us went to Chiodo's.  Dale & I had steaks & Barb had the fish fry.  I had coconut cream pie.  I really celebrated!  They have good food.  Laurie Heckler was our waitress.  Danny is a senior in college & Allison a senior at Warren.  She is a good athlete & has the body for it.

The Mets had a great series against the Braves.  Last nite's game was so exciting.  The Mets made 2 errors in the 9th inning & I thought they'll lose.  "O ye of little faith".  They wont the game 3-1, as well as the series.

Tonite the Braves are at Pittsburgh & in the 3rd inning the Pirates lead 3-1.

Dale has found things in the attic he forget he had.  All the instruction sheets of the stereo equipment he bought.  He saved magazines & now he realizes he needs to get rid of them. Someone in Sugar Grove takes paper, plastics, etc.

Sat Aug. 30

Made an apple pie & our favorite choc. cookies this A.M.  The heat of the oven felt good as it turned cool.  We had burgers & corn on the cob for supper.  Soon I'll have pie & coffee.  I'm watching the Mets vs. Phila.  Thankfully the rain is over.  The field is wet as they had an aft. rain .  The Mets lost last nite but no score yet in the 3rd inning.

Watched the W.V.-Wisc. game this aft. & fell asleep so I missed the winning score for Wisc.  I'm back in my 2nd childhood -- as kids if we were going to stay up past our bedtime, we had to take a nap.  My bedtime is usually 10 pm  & I'm ready to get up at 6 A.M.  Tonite's game is going fast so maybe I won't stay up past my bedtime.

Labor Day

By choice, this was my regular duty day to change Dale's bed, 3 load of wash & because it is rainy & cool, I made a coffee cake & dinner rolls.  The kitchen is cleaned up & I'm watching the Mets play Atlanta.  A little rain but I hope it can be a complete game.  Right now it is 202.

Tues the 2nd.

When Dale came home for lunch today he was a little upset.  He was told he has to go to school in Rochester for 3 days.  He would have to leave after work.  He left about 6:45 & should be there by now.  He won't be home til Fri.  They provide the car & it was a van.  It was that or a Neon & he preferred the van. These sessions have something to do with trucks. He told me but I can't remember.

Again I'm watching Braves vs. Mets, on TBS.  The Mets won Sun. & are ahead 2-1 but it's only the 6th inning & a lot can happen.

Wed the 3r4

I got the glassware in the dining room washed this A.M.  so the things open to the eye are clean & shiny.

This aft. I'm watching the Mets-Brave game on ESPN and it looks like the Mets will take the series.  6-1 in the 8th.  Trachsel is pitching -- one more inning to go & he'll have pitched the entire game.  That doesn't happen very much anymore.

Thurs.

Not much is happening here.  Lar & Kim were here.  Torey missed Dale to give him treats. He got them from Lar & Kim.  Finally nice weather in coming.

Saturday, January 11, 2003

We expected more snow Friday, yesterday, & we planned to go to Jamestown as soon as I got my hair done.  Luckily the snow held off til afternoon so we got our errands done & were home by 12:30.  I found a blouse on sale at Sears & a pair of shoes.  Barb found nothing but groceries she gets at Wegman's.

This has been a quiet day.  It was Dale's Sat. A.M. to work.  I had made 2 batches of cookies Fri. Aft. so I didn't bake today.  I did make 3 apple tarts waiting for Dale to come home for lunch.  He never leaves right at quitting time.  Barb came down this A.M. late & since I didn't go upstairs I didn't realize she didn't feel good, until she came downstairs about 5pm.

Dale left at 4 to go to Same B. to watch the Steelers game.  He'll eat there so I just fixed myself a chicken sandwich & had my apple tart.  Now I'm back to watching the game.  An exciting one.

Got your letter today.  Nice to see the programs.  I've never seen any similar programs before -- of big events such as for a gov.

Glad JoAnna got a job she'll enjoy.  It sounds like a lot of work to me.

When we talked about your possible job, Barb hoped you wouldn't take it.  She said the boys are still young & now you are close should there be an emergency.  With a different job you'd both be in Madison & maybe could get away.  I'm sure you were disappointed but things seem to work out for the best   At least you are not unhappy where you are & there is enough variety in your schedule to make it interesting.

Barb was also happy that the Big 10 made such a good showing in the bowl games.  Penn STate didn't make her very happy.

We got the new spring/summer Penney's catalogue but not too much in it interests us.  It is still fun to leaf thru it.

Tues A.M.

Yesterday I did the minimum work as I had an appt. for a perm in the aft.  It is good to have it cut & more curl.  Today I did the same as I'm going to Bible Study at church at 11 A.M.  Bathroom is cleaned & towels in the washing machine.  And Dale's lunch is ready.  I made beef -veggie soup yesterday so he'll have soup & a sandwich.  Unless it's his long Tues (not today) or I serve BLT. he always makes his own sandwich.

It is cold outside.  Yesterday Barb was able to take me to get my hair done & pick me up.  She said the walks were too icy.  I didn't object.

This aft. we'll get groceries.

Wed A.M. 15th

After Dale left I sat in my chair & slept for an hour.  Still dark at 7 A.M.  Now I'm listening to Warren's AM news.  Then get dressed.

Got another Bon Appetit & a lemon rice recipe sounds interesting.

Our temp 15.  The furnace keeps running but we are warm.

Leafing thru Penney's catalog I noticed the Emeril pots & pans.  The set looks very nice -- now I know what yours look like.

The Conewango Club rebuilding is looking good.  They have several columns on the Market St. entrance & it looks very nice.  Very colonial like & inviting.

We got good news -- Big K is not closing in the N. Warren Mall.  We didn't think it would as they have a good business flow.  Neither is the one in Jamestown. We wonder red about that as they never seem as busy.

Last nite the back door bell rang (already locked) & it was Lar & Torey.  Kim was at a mtg & when Lar walked Torey he headed Lar over here.  So we had a little visit after Torey had some treats.  It was cold so a brief warm up felt good.  When Tor comes without Kim  he always looks around to see if she is here.

I'd better get dressed & do a few chores like wash the floor.

Now it's Thurs A.M. 8:00 & I've showered -- in the basement shower & outside temp is 16 -- it wasn't cold with the elec. heater.  SO I'll finish this letter.  This Thurs. a banana pie is already in the fridge.  After I got breakfast ready & before I ate, I made the pie.  We're also having pork loin roast.  On Thurs. Dale can be sure of a good dinner.  He never complains.

It's 8:30 & Barb isn't up yet.  She sets her own schedule.

Lar & Kim are getting a lot of cross country skiing in.  Torey loves it.

Careys left for Fla. yesterday.  They'll leave the cold weather behind.  Dale can park his car in their garage while they are gone.

Oops -- almost forgot t his is garbage collection day so I got 5 min. of fresh air.  I bundled up as it is COLD!  But nice.  Notice the days are getting longer.

Don't have too many chores today.  The house stays straightened up -- I save my energy for getting dinner & cleaning up.  We usually sit an hour or so & talk.  Usually have H&G TV on for Weekend Warriors while I'm cleaning up.  I'm glad for the dishwasher.  I prefer my appliances to "the good old days".
 
Better get going but wanted to finish my letter.

Wednesday, September 11, 2002

I'm sitting with a cup of coffee at my elbow after a busy 2 1/2 hours.  I now have a new cooky (you add chopped up Snickers) made & sampled.  Very good.  Another bar cooky waiting to be frosted, a banana cream pie for dinner (along with a chicken rice recipe they all like) & 2 1/2 doz. fresh dinner rolls.  Secret -- I made the rolls & new cooky recipe Tues. aft. & refrigerated them overnite.  Not bad for an old lady.  After a shower & getting dressed I'll be ready to take it easy.

We got our Penney's Christmas catalog last St. & you know what that means!  I prefer to send money but I like suggestions for a gift or two to open.  So -- Get busy Paul.

Wonder if you heard this on TV -- a library in Ohio is playing classical music in hopes of discouraging the youth from making the library a hangout & loitering.

Are you still getting the Warren newspaper.  Warren Hi is starting out great in football.  Barb's Dr's son plays QB & he is really good.  Also Ditka's nephew is on the team & he runs well for yardage.  David D's mom is a classmate of Barb's.  Father has a good job at United.  Warren won by good margins beating both Oil City & Meadville so far.  Those teams are usually powerhouses.

You might notice in the paper Marcia Gustafson Garrison died, age 50.  Larry's class.  After a long illness.  She was just skin & bones.  Parents:  the Don Gustafsons.  Siblings Susan G. Kiser & Don & David brothers.

The pastor in Sheffield-Ludlow parish is leaving after 4 years.  They really like him.  His wife is also a pastsor in some small nearby town.  They will be morning to Va. & both will be associate pastors in a large congregation.  Ray Forstrom will be interim pastor so he won't preach at St. Paul anymore.

I'd better get busy & get dressed so more later.

Thurs. the 12th.

Warren Hollertz called yesterday to tell me Anna had a heart attack last week.  Early A.M. hours.  She fainted & Warren wanted to call 911 but Anna said it's just the flu.  But when she couldn't sit up along for a drink of water, Warren called 911.  The EMT worked for 1 1/2 hours to stabilize Anna & then took her to Du Bois as that hospital is connected with Pittsburgh heart doctors.  She is home now -- she had the balloon method to clear a clogged artery & might have to have it again for another artery.  The end of the month she starts a heart exercise series at the hospital.  Warren leaves today for the wedding in Worcester & will be back on Sunday.  No trip to Florida but they hope to go to January.  I'm sure they are in for a changed life style.

Kim is happy with her school experience except for one 8th grade boy who is in 8th grade for the 3rd time, is 17 years old & could care less about lessons.  But he said he'll be 18 the 20th of Sept. & then he can quit school.  I'm sure the teachers won't miss him.

I finally got Dale to sign a card for Andy & mailed it this afternoon at the post office so he might not get it til Monday.  Returned 2 library books & got 2 more.

Your letter arrived today with Eddie's pictures.  They are so good & in the frame already.

The high school is really something   How nice to have the sports area they have.  You are fortunate to be in a growing area with so many activities to draw upon.  You shouldn't have any trouble being Library Director until you retire.

The train situation is something.  How could they go into debt so fast.  Poor management, I guess.

Carey's are home from Florida.  Talked a bit with Mr. C. when I came home from the P.O.  Mary Ann is doing more & feeling fine as a result of her operation.  No back pain anymore.

It's a gorgeous day -- on the cool side and a deep blue sky.  I'll take this any day over 90 heat.

Bert had to get a new portable dishwasher. Hers was leaking & it would be costly to repair.  The old was so dirty.  Sunday nite Lar & Kim plus 2 other couples are invited for Sunday nite supper.  Bert wanted Barb to come but she refused.  Like me she's doesn't like being "odd" man out!  Barb will work Saturday getting the house in order & have tomorrow A.M. off.  After I get my hair done, we'll go to Jamestown so we can be back before 3 pm when she picks Scott up from school.  He stays for lunch at school & then Barb picks him up & stays til 4:30.

Tuesday, June 18, 2002

It has warmed up so I'm sitting on the porch.  Earlier in the day I set dinner rolls, which I refrigerated & choc. chip cookies.  After supper I baked the cookies & enjoyed one with a cup of coffee on the porch.  Tomorrow A.M. I'll bake the rolls.  Suppose to be in the 80's the end of the week. 

The people across the street, corner house, are having their late roof power washed.  They took a tree down on the north side & the roof on that side was covered with moss.  It looks so nice but it also has taken paint off the house so it will have to be painted again.

Thanks for the pictures.  I like the new cupboards & the different arrangement of the L.R.-D.R. area.
And what an improvement in the floor of Andy's room.  It looks so nice.  Would Eddie's room have the same kind of floor.

Kim enjoyed their golfing weekend but this is the last time to go there.  This year a couple of gals backed out the last minute & they had to find subs as they had to pay for them regardless.  Next year they might go closer to home -- like Peak 'n' Peek & just stay 1 nite.

When we got groceries this aft. we tried the corn on the cob -- 5/2.00.  It was pretty good.  We noticed Hatch Patch had strawberries but we didn't stop.  Probably 2.50 a qt.

The Mountain Laurel in the front of the house is in full bloom.  The first time so all of the rain must have helped.  It's pretty. 

I talked to Millie.  Ed's throat & one side are paralyzed so he can't swallow.  They had to put a tube in his stomach to feed him.  But he can talk.  John & Edith are very worried about Gen staying alone.  John disconnected something in the car so Gen can't drive & John would say he's too busy to fix it.  They are afraid of her reaction if they tell her she can't drive.  So she up & called AAA to take the car where they bot it & have it fixed.  When John heard that he told them not to touch it & tow it back.  It's tough when both of them are ailing.  I know Gen would hate to leave her home.

Yesterday I went to the dentist & he filled 1 tooth.  July 1, I go again for the tooth that broke off.

Tomorrow I go to get a blood test as I see Dr. McNett next week.  I'm taking care of myself.

I was very happy last weekend when the Mets took 2 of 3 games with the Yankees.  Doubly happy when Moe Vaughn hit a home run when his hitting has been zero.  If the team could start hitting it would be good.

I've been looking for a peanut butter brownie recipe & finally found one in one of my books.  They came out really good.  Just made a half recipe & they went too fast.

Golf was interesting last weekend.  A noisy crowd.  I was rooting for Tiger but Kim & Barb wanted Phil N. to win a major.

Wed. the 19th.  I got my dinner rolls baked & in the freezer.  Barb took me to get my blood test.  On the way home I stopped at the post office & got the new 37 cent stamps plus 3 34 cent stamps.  The new stamps start on the 30th of June.

We got the Fall-Winter Penney's catalogue so it's been fun looking thru it.  Not too much appeals to me, tho.

Wed. aft. baseball - Texas vs. the Cubs.  Beautiful day to watch a game at the park or field.  Will you get in on any of the All Star game to be played in Milwaukee?

Did Andy get his new bicycle?

Thurs. aft.  In the mail today, I got Ruth's new address & phone number.  Was glad to get it.

I'm all set for Kim's birthday dinner.  We're having steak, pot. salad, fruit salad (cantaloupe, watermelon& green grapes, all on sale this week), fresh beans, rolls & strawberry shortcake.  Barb stopped at Hatch Patch for berries.  2.00 for a very full qt.  The ladies at church said BiLo's shortcake is very good but Barb didn't see any so we have homemade shortcake.  New recipe, made in cup cake tins.  Looks good.

It's warming up but I haven't turned on the AC yet.  No humidity so far.

Did you forget I put out $50.00 for you!

Until next week love to all.

Sunday, January 13, 2002

Thanks for the pictures of Eddie.  Been wondering when they would come.  Nice family pictures of the Richards.  Are Andy's shoulders as broad as they look in the pictures.  I like the looks of your "Swedish" bathroom.  It really looks nice...and bright.

It looks like Green Bay will win the game.  I know you are all rooting for them to win.  It's been a good game.  They got a touchdown so it's a win!

We've had a couple of inches of snow today.

Thurs. I made dinner rolls but they didn't turn out that good so I made another batch yesterday.  Also I made veg. beef soup & an apple pie.  It came out good.  I was glad as I never am sure if it will be good when I make apple pie.  Will have to get the same apples every time.  Used Ida-red apples.

The first Fri. in Feb. we were to go out & eat at Wolf's Den as it is a little closer for the Schaffers who are in Ohio.  But Ted Benson called & said they can't make it so they wondered about the Liberty St. Cafe in Warren.  But I said I'd like them to come here for lunch as a think you for thinking of me & picking me up.  Benson's, Hollertz's, & Ray & Eleanor have all picked me up.  So they'll come here & I already have planned the menu.

It will be chicken as they all like that & pork or ham doesn't agree with Anna H.  A jello salad, cardamum rolls & dessert but I haven't settled between a couple of dessert recipes.  It's between a chicken-rice casserole that comes out good or a cheesy chicken casserole that it tasty with mushrooms & munster cheese.  But then I'd need potatoes & would use a frozen potato casserole that is good.

Fri. we went to Jamestown & I found a puzzle I liked & started it Fri. nite while watching skating on TV.  Michelle Kwan came out on top.  U.S. has some excellent up & coming skaters, both male & female.  The puzzle is waiting for me & I have a little time before meal preparations.  We're using the new G. Foreman grill with thicker steaks from Schwann's.

There is something I want to write but it wen as fast as it came to mind.

They're already advertising NASCAR on Fox.  Dale is ready for it.

Mon. after supper Jan 14

I read your library newsletter from page to page & it is always interesting.  Hard to find books at our library as they are working in the area where the book shelves are.  I think they are removing the aspestos (can't find how to spell it in the dictionary).  I hope it's soon done as I'm ready to read again. There are a few books in the entry as well as the check out desk.

Got the Penney's spring & summer catalogue last Fri.  Fun to look thru but not much took my fancy.

Tonite I watch TLC channel & Trauma: Life in the ER & then Maternity Ward.  From 8-10 pm.

In the Sun. paper there was an interesting article on Jerry Orbach.  It said Law & Order was renewed for another 5 years! Jo. Orbach has been on a few "Murder, She Wrote" programs & I always like him.

I like my pan & pot holder over the stove but it gets dusty & doesn't look good.  With company coming I cleaned it today.  Scrubbed it as it was oily dirt & dust.  Looks better.  Also brushed the walls, corners, etc. to take away any cobwebs.  Couldn't see any but that doens't mean they aren't there.

Barb is counting calories -- wants to lose 5 lbs.  She still had a piece of apple pie.

Here it is Tues & this letter is not in the mail.

I'll mail it tomorrow -- walking to 5th Av. to mail it.

Been looking over dessert recipes.  I want to serve something light & easy to fix.  Maybe an angel food dessert.  Or a frozen pie I can make ahead of time.  I have the Mud Duck pie recipe.  And peanut butter pie.  Both could be made earlier in the week.

Finished my puzzle.  2 pieces are missing & I can't find them.  I check the floor on my hands & knees but they blend in too well with the rug.

Barb saw a sale catalog from Nordstrom's at Lynn's & saw a couple of things she liked & sent for them. They came today. A pretty blue velvet shirt-like top that is so pretty.  A dressy sleeveless top in blue.  Don't know where she'll wear it.  And an oversized shirt in coral.  Very pretty.

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.

Thursday, January 20, 2000

No letter from me this week as I just mailed your letter when I got a blood test today.  It's been too cold & snowy for me to talk to the P.O. box on 5th.  The weather channel says next week will be stormy as well.

I finally ordered a white shirt from Penney's catalogue & I like it.  Couldn't find one in the stores locally.  T hey had a special 25% discount so it was inexpensive.

Barb washed the kitchen floor today & it's nice to have it clean again.

Dale is talking about getting a new rug for his room & painting it (the room!)  He wants to get rid of Dad's desk if he knows what to do with the stuff in the drawers.  He should get a new mattress & springs but he doesn't think so.  We'll see when this happens.  He did look at a rug at the West End place.  Saw one he liked & with a pad would cost 400.00.  Blue & he'd keep the walls the same neutral color.

He also said he might sell the El Camino this spring or maybe the following spring.  He'll be fussy on the buyer as he'd want it kept in good condition.  He'd sell it for at least $5,000.00.  He doesn't think it would be hard to find a buyer.  He could change his mind as he thinks a lot of that car.

Fri. the 21st.

I had my hair done today & it felt good to get out.

Dale thinks he will get the rug & store it in the attic -- before prices go up.  He'll wait til spring to start painting, etc.  He plans to lay the rug himself.  I'm sure he can do it as he did such a good job on the back steps.

We have a leak in a pipe in the basement.  Lar & Dale can fix it & Lar will be over at 1 pm tomorrow.  Tonite Dale started to remove a pipe that we don't need anymore.  Dale got all the necessary pipes, etc. needed. Saves me a lot of money.

Got your letter today.  Thanks for the pictures. The new furniture is so nice looking.  Bet it's real comfortable.  The place where you stayed looked interesting.  You eat well on those trips.

I finished the 4th book in the Jan Karon series.  I've enjoyed them so much. It's like you're reading about friends -- they become almost real.  They're great.  One more to go in this series of 5 books.

Finished putting together one puzzle & started on the next one.  Gen called & she said Millie likes to do puzzles & was working on one.

Sat. evening.

Dale is still working in the basement getting it in order as they had to move things.  The old pipe wasn't on a slant so sludge built up.  The new pipe is on a slant & should give no problem.  Lar was here only a couple of hours.

Tonite Lar & Kim are going moonlight skiing with Nancy & Jay & then back to Endres' for pizza.  Don't think they'll be out too long as it's COLD outside.

Mon. we're supposed to go out to lunch - Bensons, Hollertz, etc.  I haven't made reservation because of the weather & on a Mon. they won't be that crowded.  We always go to the Holiday Inn.

I had a letter from Linda (cousin) & was surprised.  Reason:  Larry's youngest son has a school project - we are asked to send a postcard & a little about where we live.  Linda tho't I could do that & suggested I send it on to you so be prepared to tell about Middleton & find a postcard.  Linda started it out.  All instruction are in there.  Barb got interested in it & will do the project.  Give a little history of Warren; the 1st oil well, the Dam.  You'll get to see it.  Checking it over again I see you are to send a card to the teacher with teh child's name so they check the places on the map now.  I think it's a great project for the  children.  Kim was going to tell Betsy who teaches at Home School about it.

Now it's Mon.

Had a nice time with "the gang". There were 7 of us - Ray Forstrum's weren't' there.

Barb has the "project" finished & it sounds good.  I have to get a mailing folder & then it will be sent to you for your "contribution".

Tomorrow Barb is taking the A.M. off & we'll go to the Mall.  I have a long list of things to get...mostly at Big K.  I get soap & paper products there - their brand is cheaper & just as good.

Soon supper time.

Friday, June 18, 1999

We still have cool weather, in fact I turned on the furnace this A.M. to take off the chill.  42 at 6 A.M.

We put an ad in the paper to sell the davenport & love seat.  The first person wanted just the love seat so I sold it & that was a mistake.  Most callers wanted both.  So we still have the daenport but one lady offered 75.00 for it (100.00 otherwise) if no one wnated it.  The rugs will be cleaned on Tues. so I'll call her Mon (the lady) just to get rid of it.  Be clear for cleaning.

Just called now to have the sofa delivered next Fri. aft. from Kerr's.

We have the L.R. & D.R. rugs cleaned.  All will be nice.

Warren Hollertz called Tues. & wondered if I wanted to go out to eat with them.  T hey came around 5 & we drove to the Dam & ate at the Dockside Restaurant.  It was a nice outing.  They went to Florida in Jan. & charged $2,000.00; to Aruba & it meant another 2,000.00 on the charge card.   They had a great time but that's not for me.  Could never be in debt like that.  The difference in people.  In Aug. they'll drive to Mass. & again in Sept. & they offered to take me.  I might go in Sept. when it's cooler.  It would be 3 weeks in Aug. & that's too long for me.

Got the Fall-Winter Penneys catalog today & started dreaming.  Made a list of clothes I like - a dream list.  15% off if you order before July 13. 

Ruth called last week to see if I was going to the reunion.  She'll have a 2 bedroom place to stay & said I could stay with her but it's too far away for such a short time & I think I'm getting to be a "stay at home person".

Barb picked 8 qt. of strawberries & we've had strawberry shortcake & I made a batch of jam.  Andy should be here to eat strawberries.  They are so good.

Torey will be here Sat. aft. so he won't have to be alone when Lar works Sat. aft.  Kim left this A.M. for the golfing trip.  Cool but nice weekend.

Got mail from Register of Wills & they have a death tax on the bank acct. & C.D. we have so I have close to 500.00 to pay.  I don't like that tax.

We're watching golf on T.V.  A good one to watch.  Lots of big names.

Mon A.M.

Barb is cleaning in the kitchen so I'll stay out of her way.

Bon Ton had a sale & seeing we won't see the boys this summer, I found some sales & hope I got something that fits.  Will mail the pkg. this aft. so it gets on the way.  Andy likes clothes so it's easier to find things for him.  Hope Eddie's choices are OK.

Kim had a nice golfing weekend.  Played on a course the LGPA will play on later this year.  In Youngstown, Ohio.  12 of them.

We watched golf yesterday - it was an exciting finish & Payne Stewart won.  We were rooting for Michelson, who will soon be a father.

All is fine here.

Friday, February 12, 1999

ooo

Got your letter yesterday.  Glad to hear the boys are doing so good in school.  Would be fun to see Andy play basketball.

This past week we had a beef roast.  With the left over beef I made pasties & they turned out good.  Had rutabaga & potatoes & gravy.  But I didn't have 1 c. gravy as called for, but did have a little onion soup left from lunch & added it to the gravy & it worked out to be very tasty.  Recipe from "Quick Cooking".

The Conewango Country Club is golfing, etc.  The Conewango Club by the library is a men's club as I understand it.  They serve lunch & rent out the bldg. for parties, wedding receptions as does the Country Club.

Dad was up & sitting in a chair when I came down - one that he has a hard time getting out of.  So time out while I attend to him.

Dad is taken care of but not before he had a fall.  I was trying to get him in the wheelchair so he could eat breakfast.  He didn't like something & turned to hit me, lost balance & he went down hard on his rear.  Barb & I were able to get him up & he settled down.  I'm sure he will have a sore tail bone.

We got a card from our friends Ted & Pat Benson.  The end of Feb. they are flying to Portland, Ore. to visit their daughter & son-in-law.  In July they are taking a trip to Norway & Finland.  Next year they plan to see the Passion Play in Germany.  They are enjoying retirement.

Thurs. was a warm day & springlike.  Today it will turn cooler, snow & all that "nice stuff".  On our side of 3rd we have small piles of snow from shoveling (2 l's?).  The opposite side has no snow.  We don't get sun in the front of the house to melt it.

Barb bro't home Lynn's Penneys catalog so I could look it over.  The next day ours finally arrived, but I don't see much that appeals to me.  A couple of tops & slacks, pants or whatever.

At 6 A.M. the temp. was in the low 50's.  At 10 A.M. it is 39.  Some difference.  It is raining now but suppose to turn to snow by 1 pm.  (It came late A.M.  Maybe 2-3")

Found an old spring pink suit that fits me now, so I'll get it cleaned.  It's ages old.  Good to save some things. Bet my wedding dress would fit me now.

Don't you usually go away for the weekend over Martin Luther King's birthday or is it later.

I'm washing so must check the dryer.

Am enclosing a couple of articles about Buffalo.

pppp

Friday, June 19, 1998

Tues. Sears called to say the washer & dryer were in & could they deliver it on Wed.  In stead it will be on Mon. A.M. the 22nd.  Last nite Dale helped Lar take the washer & dryer.  No washing til Mon.  Barb is busy readying the walls for painting.  The cupboards won't be completed but they can be done after the W & D are in.  Larry thinks the color is too dark but we like it - so does Kim & would like that color in their den but she won't get her way.  The following week we'll get the dishwasher so no more noisy equipment.  It better last thru my lifetime. I tho't the present ones would & they probably would have if I hadn't gotten money from Edna.

Got your letter today.  The cat is adorable.  Not according to Dale, tho as he doesn't like cats.  They (males) squirt on his tires & try to sit on his car.  Pictures of the boys & the yard are so nice.

The new Penney's catalog came today & already I've glanced thru it.  Saw a dress I like & most likely will order it.  15% off if you order before July 14.

Kim & 7 other women friends are on their way to a golfing weekend.  In the Pittsburgh area.  They'll stay at a Holiday Inn & play 18 holes on Sat. & Sun.  Sun. is her birthday & she'll be home in time for a 6 pm dinner here.

Kim's sister (in Fla.) & family want to visit in Warren & are talking about coming for Thanksgiving - still in the dream stage, tho.  I asked Kim if they'd be here for Thanks. dinner & she tho't that would be too much.  I don't because it wouldn't be much of a holiday if it were just the 5 of us.  Time will tell.

Not it's Tues.

The washer & dryer have already gotten much good use.  They are so nice & the room looks good.  The doors aren't finished yet & we have a wall paper border to put around the top of the walls.

Kim had a wonderful weekend.  Some (who didn't have to work) left at noon to go to Grove City & the discount stores.  Their destination was Sharon.  This Holiday Inn caters mostly to golfing groups - makes all the arrangements, etc.  It included 1 dinner & you could order anything from the menu, 2 drink tickets, 2 breakfasts, continental.  They went shopping in Sharon as well.  They enjoyed it so much, they are making arrangements for next year.  The L.G.P.A. will have a tournament nearby & they could go from Fri-Sun, taking in the tournament on Sun.  8 women.

Sun. nite we sat on the porch.  They said you could stay at camp & spend the days here - meals, visiting, etc..  You see Dad is in bed by 10 p.m. & when he sleeps downstairs, it will be hard to watch T.V., etc.  Barb watches T.V. or is in her room reading; Dale in his room watching T.V. & I'm usually ready for bed.  The boys could be with you or could watch T.V. & sleep in the den.  We'd fix the T.V. so it would shut off around 11 pm.  Most Braves games are over by then.  It's up to you.  Lar & Kim have a new queen size mattress on their bed.  Right now Dale is on a 7-5 work day.  Working extra hrs. because they are behind.  He doesn't know how long that will last.   When are you coming.

I like letters as I can reread them.  Phone calls are harder to recall accurately.

Dad thanks you for his Father's Day card.

Thursday, February 5, 1998

The anniv. flowers lasted 2 weeks & they made us think of spring with pink tulips, etc.  We enjoyed them & thank you very much.  Kim & Lar came over with an anniv. cake from BiLo & it was delicious.  Lar put in 3 more elec. wires so the Micro is on its own line & won't go out if another thing like the roaster is used.   One for Dale in the garage & something he uses out there.  No more extension cords.  Our Christmas & Anniv. gifts from Lar & Kim.

Thanks for the pictures you've sent.  Your house looks so nice - and lot of snow.  These latest storms haven't hit us.  Don't know why we're so lucky.  Wonder what the summer will be like - some say hot & humid & dry.

Gen called this week & tomorrow John leaves for a ski trip in Austria.  A tour deal for 8 days.

How was Andy's study on Sweden.

Hope you find a cure for Eddie's problem.  At least you're doing something about it.

Wonder how you would have reacted, Paul, if I threatened you couldn't do something until you got better grades.  By the time you needed prodding you were older & it went in one ear & out the other.  Maybe making the honor roll is more of a parents' bragging point.  Anyway you've done very well for yourself & probably much better than many honor students 

We got the new Penney's catalog & if you ordered before Feb. 2, you get 15% off so I did just that.  Got 2 prs slacks - one sage, one periwinkle, a pr. of longer shorts & a pink cotton/poly. top & it came yesterday & I'm very satisfied.

Last Sun. Vi Lilja told me Sonya Thelin had her baby - a second daughter.

Tomorrow the Olympics start to there should be some good T.V. viewing. I'm watching Home & Garden T.V. & it's been interesting so I've made some mistakes.

Soon bedtime so I'll bring this to a close for this time.

[Enclosure 1]

From a letter to Mom and Dad written on February 7, 1998

The article on Great Falls that Gen had sent to you is one that I had read on the Internet.  Your remark, "Don't remember seeing this", and in a way, you are right, Mom.  We never saw the Ryan Dam from this vantage point, i.e., the one in the newspaper photograph.  As a result of this enclosure in your recent letter, I reviewed the slides that Dad took during the years we lived in Great Falls and uncovered two that might refresh your memory.  Actually, there are two dams, which are referred to as Black Eagle Dam (me and Larry in the foreground, trees in the background) and Rainbow Dam (the railroad bridge and the striped wheat fields in the background) in the latest edition of the Rand McNally Road Atlas.  Maybe Black Eagle Dam was renamed.


It's interesting.  I still have such vivid memories of Great Falls.  School.  Church.  The old parsonage.  The new parsonage.  Gibson Park.  Dora Donald's apartment.  The Buttrey's store down the alley.  The Civic Center, where Dad took Larry and me to our first movie, The Lady and the Tramp.  The Hasselquist house.  Giant Springs.  My friend Jacques.  The Demolay building.  When I look back on those years, it seems like another lifetime.  To me, perhaps not to you, for a variety of reasons, Great Falls was a wonderfully idyllic time.  I think the wide open spaces of Montana, "Big Sky" country, had a major impact on my psychological development.  I still feel a strong connection to that part of my life, a yearning to return -- to visit, not necessarily to live t here.  Since we moved in 1957, I've returned to Great Falls twice, in 1974 and 1983.  The first time I rediscovered what it was like to view the world with the eyes of a child.  What seemed so remote when I was six years old was just a few blocks away.