Tuesday, May 2, 2006

What a beautiful day(s) we've been having.  Last Sat. Barb gave the van a good washing.  Wanted to wax it but worked in the garden instead.  Preparing for the flowers we'll get.  She also worked outside the house facing west, trimming some of the shrubbery.  And last Sat. she also washed the front porch getting it ready for summer furniture.  You ask "What did Dale do?"  He had a headache -- it was his Sat to work from 8-12 & in the aft. took it easy.

Last fall Barb planted some daffodil bulbs but only 4 came up & they are very small.  One is blooming & I see another bud.  Maybe they were planted too deep.

Lynn's parents are at the Lake so they are going there tonite to see them. Scott likes to wear his pants low on the hips.  Barb said to him why don't you change to nicer clothes & surprise your parents?  I don't want to do that."  Barb doesn't yell at him but talks nice to him. Then she took the dogs out & got ht email.  When she went in the house she saw that Scott had changed his clothes.  So he listened.  He likes Barb & tells her things he'd never tell his mother.

I called in an order to Penney's.  A 2 piece set for the rocker you gave us.  I sit there a lot & the present set has gotten a lot of wear.  Also ordered a lace tablecloth.  And they had a special.  Spend 25.00 & get free postage.  Both are sale items.

This is Dale's early week & he just came home.  He plans to mow the lawn -- it grows fast.

Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown tomorrow.  We'll have lunch at the Red Lobster.  Barb has some birthday money to spend.  I'd like a pair of tan shoes if I see any I like.  They have a discount shoe store there.  We'll also stop at WalMart -- Barb's idea!

I don't know what Andy will want for graduation but I plan to send a check.  He can choose for himself.  Ditto for your anniversary.  Twenty years -- where has the time gone?

Fri. May 12th, I'll be going out to lunch with Bensons, Hollertzs & Shaffers from Ohio -- at Warren Holiday Inn.  Haven't seen Shaffers for a long time.  They live just over the Pa line so it's easy for them to get here.

Wed, May 3

We went to Jamestown this A.M.  Before we left I got the kitchen garbage ready for tomorrow & put a swiss steak supper in the crockpot.  Just have to make salads.  First we went to WalMart -- they have a new store (in the same location) & it is nice.  Barb chose some petunias for her pots & I chose marigolds.  At BonTon I found a sweater I liked -- to wear now -- pink with colors of trim.  Hope others don't choose the same thing.  Also got a couple more tank tops -- on sale, and a knit shirt also on sale.  I told Barb don't let me spend any more on tops.  Yesterday I sent an order (telephone) for the tablecloth & rocker set I want.  Fun to spend, spend, spend!  As long as I can pay for it I'm OK.  We had lunch at the Red Lobster & enjoyed it.

Barb really has the outside landscaping looking good.  Now she doesn't say Dale should help any more.  She realizes he is on his feet all day & says his long legs make it harder for him to kneel & do the work.  Getting things in order doesn't take that long.  The lawn moving & sweeping up goes on all summer.  He does the edging so he does his share.

Dale just came home & as soon as he changes his clothes, he goes & sits outside in the sun.  Starting his tan early.  We expect showers tomorrow, but they are needed.

Tonite & tomorrow nite I can watch the Mets, thanks to Pittsburgh playing at Shea.

Fri. A.M.

Had my hair cut & set & now I reread your letter while drinking coffee.  Glad to hear news of the Nelson families, i.e., Carolyn's husband & the wedding, etc.  Good to know you are rid of the catheter & that all is going well.  It will soon be a memory the way time flies.

The flower pots Barb filled are looking nice.  We didn't get the showers they forecast & now there is a fire ban.

On Fri, I don't do much -- 2 loads of wash -- just take it easy after a busy week.

Saturday, October 22, 2005

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wed, 8 A.M.

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

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

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

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

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

Better get going.

Thurs nite.

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

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

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

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

Sunday, January 16, 2005

The Steelers won yesterday but it was a tough one to watch.  We weren't sure until the end.  I'm watching Minn. at Philly but the exciting one will be the Colts at N.E.  People here are thinking the Steelers will go all the way.  I hope so but there is bout in my mind.

I bundled up to go to church this A.M.  It was 19 but it wasn't windy.  A widow in the congregation has a 300.00 gas bill & can't pay it.  So this A.M. the pastor asked for donations to help her, or her gas will be cut off. I just had my regular offering but next Sun./ I'll give some money to help.

Barb suggested we have pizza last nite while watching the game.  I ordered it & had made a pumpkin pie for dessert.  Had a coupon so  got a large pan supreme & had leftovers for lunch.

Both Barb & Dale had headaches yesterday.  Dale's was gone by aft. but Barb was in bed most of the day.

The paper announced the Templeton Funeral Home was sold to Peterson Blick.  Patterson's up the street owned it but it was never that busy.  He will receive payments over the next 10 years & will help part time.  Marilyn P. teaches with Kim & I wondered if she'd retire now.  (end of school year)  Lar didn't know -- I'll ask Kim on Wed.  They like to visit their daughters.  One teaches on the East Coast & the youngest is a nurse, married & living in Atlanta.

Yesterday's paper showed a picture of the 4 schools to be closed when the new school opens next fall.  Article said there is some interest in them.  Wonder if Jefferson will stand empty.  Nothing ever happened in the East St. School.  The parking lot is used for parking -- you pay to use it.

Thurs. we went to Jamestown -- temp in the 60s.  A beautiful day.  Just wore a blazer.  We ate lunch at the Red Lobster & enjoyed it.  We stopped -- the name won't come to me -- & the Jamestown telephone book is no help -- at, not Lowe's but the other one to look for shelves for the basement storage.  We found what we wanted to fit against the one side of the shower.  2 shelves for Barb's garden supplies; 2 shelves for canned goods, flour, sugar, etc,  I buy on sale & don't have room for upstairs.  It is nice & strong.  The first one Dad got, needed to be attached to something to hold it better.  This one was more expensive & stronger.  Dale put it together.  No school tomorrow so Barb plans to get things in order.  A y ear or so ago Dale got a larger set of shelves set up for his stuff.  We also have an old bookcase Dad made, down there to store stuff.  Have to try to keep it neat.  Still take my shower in the basement even tho the temp was low.  The heater helps a lot & I prefer to shower there.  That was the big purchase.  Not the shower, the shelf.

Barb wants to look for a new exercise machine.  She mailed Laura's dress to Honolulu & it cost $30.00.  Laura has sent 100 dollars for postage & Barb could keep the rest.  She said she would buy me a puzzle.  Mostly just the green foliage is left to put in the puzzle on the card table.  I don't mind doing old puzzles & we have a pile of them.

I've never fixed chicken wings but maybe I'll try on Super Bowl Sun.  So I'll copy how you fix yours (in your last letter) only mine won't be so spicy.  I'm sure b-b-cue sauce will do fine for us.  Already it is the middle of the month so I won't have too long to wait to try this.  I'll check recipes for more ideas how to do it.  I love looking at recipes.

Wed. the 19th already

Mon. Dale picked up a tire the wrong way & his back is hurting, says he feels like an old man.  He plans to call the chiropractor today for an appt.  Jan. hasn't been a good month for him.

You can be glad you only have 2 sons when it comes to buying shoes.  And that you have a good income.

Barb has her 2 shelves finished in the basement.  I'm in no hurry to work in a cold basement.  She's in a hurry so she might fill them in & if I don't like it, I can rearrange to my satisfaction.  Barb wants to get a new exerciser, as I wrote already.

Martin Luther King day the kids had to go to school to make up a snow day.  Scott stayed home -- he didn't know it was a make-up day.  So he says & both Barb & Lynn stand up for him.   They push the ADHD thing to the limit.  To me he's just a shrewd kid & will do anything to get his way.

We finished the puzzle with no missing pieces.  Barb got me another one.  Yesterday we went to the library before getting groceries.  I got 3 books & a paperback.  The latter is "Dawn in Eclipse Bay" by Jayne Ann Krentz.  It is enjoyable reading.  Also "The Widows Club" by Dorothy Cannell.  Don't think I've read her books.  P.D. James' "Devices and Desires".  "Late Bloomers" by Fern Michaels.  My time will be spent reading for a change.  And we have the weather for staying inside. 

I have to make a dessert for tonite -- Wed. nite meal with Larry & Kim & Torey.

I use my bundt pan every other week when I make coffee cake for Dale's snack.  Saw a date bread recipe that sounds good.  Dale said he might like it.  Know I would.  If I don't have a snack on hand, I always have my rolls on hand.  I have one on Wed & Sun A.M.'s & sometimes inbetween.

Torey like to make the rounds of the neighbors for food & they love to feed him.  Tues. nite Kim was up as Torey had to go outside.  Later it was Lar's turn to take him out.  Then he wanted on their bed & Kim only had very little room & no blanket.  It was not a good sleeping nite for her.  Torey was restless so they left at 7:30.  After things were cleaned up, I was able to get back to my book by F. Michaels & I enjoyed it so much.  2 down, 2 go to.  Finished it this A.M. after my chores were done.  Bathroom had to be cleaned & dishes done.  The 1st 2 books are fun reading; I'm not as sure about the last 2.

I made the Baby Ruth bars from the 1st library book book.  Easy to make & good to eat.

Dale went to the chiropractor yesterday & has another appt. Fri.  I has helped.  Some time ago Lar tried the newest chiropractor & liked him.  They were (husband & wife) on the corner of Conewango & 5th (old store) but moved up on Fifth, just above where the Welshes lived, same side.  A dance studio used to be there.  Adelaide is now in a nursing home in Pleasant Township.

I'm not watching the inauguration & I'm missing my soaps!  Isn't that terrible!!!  Ha, Ha.  I keep checking & hope it is over, but no such luck.

It is 10 degrees but the sun is out so it seems nicer.

Gen called the other evening.  She said something is wrong with her head.  She can't remember how old she is.  I told her & she wrote it down.  John has a girlfriend.  Gen mentioned Ed & I said "He's dead isn't he".  "Oh no, he's around", but she doesn't know where.  She went on to say she was in church & lost her skirt & was so embarrassed, they left early.  Someone, I don't know who, was very upset & talked to Ed & Gen hasn't seen him since.  It's funny what the mind can make up -- but it is serious to her & she can't forget it & feels bad.

Better sign off & hope to get it in the mail soon.  I really miss the mail box on 5th.

Do you read the letters to the editor. Monty Foley has a letter in every so often.  He doesn't work & hopes to get SSI.  Back trouble.  An easy out as it is hard to prove.

Tuesday, September 14, 2004

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, August 10, 2004

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thurs. the 12th of Aug.

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

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

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

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

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

I've started another jigsaw puzzle.

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

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

Fri the 13th

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

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

This letter won't get mailed until tomorrow.

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

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

Sat A.M.

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

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

Want to get this mailed.

Sunday, February 15, 2004

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mon. Feb 16

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

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

Tues aft. 17th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wed A.M.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, November 8, 2003

I'm glad to be sitting down.  Barb said we'd go to the Mall this A.M. so I didn't start baking. After lunch I got a coffee cake in the oven, started dinner rolls & made an apple crisp.  Now I'm almost thru.  The bell should go off for the last 2 pans.  While the rolls were baking I had a cup of coffee & a piece of warm apple crisp.  Umm.  Very tasty.

Yesterday I saw Dr. McNett for the last time.  Joyce O'Connor took me for a 2 pm appt & I got to see him around 3 pm.  People wanted to talk too long with him.  My blood pressure was good & so was my heart beat.  He felt maybe the new medication he gave me last time took my blood pressure down too fast & that caused my problems.  I imagined all sorts of things but with things OK that calms my mind.  It has a great power over a person. I thanked him for all he has done for Dad & me.  He gave me a hug before I left.  He recommended Dr. Nguyen -- pronounced "when".  He is Vietnamese, bro't up in Texas & has a Texas accent.  Dr. tho't I would like him.  Dale's Dr. was filled up.  T here are 4 Drs & they have an office in Pleasant Twp.  I have an appt. for Nov. 26 a 10 A.M. to get acquainted.  My records will be forwarded to Dry Nguyen.  So I have a new experience ahead of me.  It was a long wait for Joyce but she understood.  We went to supper at Ponderosa in the Mall.  We each had the salad bar & they had a good selection.  We walked a little bit but Joyce isn't a shopper.

We have clear skies & cold weather.  Winter coat time.

I read every word of the Bookworm.  Ken Mack must have been quite young when he died. Too bad he couldn't have lived longer to enjoy the fruits of his efforts.  But what a nice contribution to the library.  Enjoyed reading the bio of the library's pages.  Also about the lib. board chairman.  Lets me know more about your position.  Enjoyed reading about Chautauqua County.  The first I've heard of it.  Nothing in the Buffalo newscasts & we don't get the Jamestown paper.  I didn't even look to see if I had made any plans for supper.  I try (half-heartedly) to make plans for the week so I wont' be in the situation I'm in.  Tired & don't know what to have for super.  Luckily there is always Pizza Hut.

Dale put the glass insert in the front door today & the extra glass for the windows in his & my bedrooms. It helps a lot.

I lost 7 lbs & the Dr. wondered why & how my appetite is.  For awhile I didn't each much breakfast but that phase is over.  But I'd like to keep those pounds off.  But will I give up my coffee breaks -- that is the question!

I'm waiting for golf to come on -- The Ohio State-Mich. State game is going on too long. Penn State couldn't even score.  In the 1st half they were close to the end zone a couple of times & couldn't even kick a field goal.  And Wi. lost -- we switched back & forth between games.  (And Miami lost again.  There is a little talk that Joe (Penn State) should retire. Barb says they need a good QB.  You'd think at 76 he'd want to take it easier.  Guess some people find it hard to give it up.

Wed. Nov. 12

I'm making a new recipe -- Italian Bow Tie supper.  It has gr. beef, onions, tom. sauce & diced tom.  Then you add pasta, thawed spinach & mozzarella cheese.  I tho't it sounded good.  Also spices.  Time will tell.

Remember I mentioned Kim Schuler wanted to buy the house (empty) north of Bert's.  He kept after the absent owner & she finally said yes.  So now it is his & he hopes to bring it back to its former glory.  There is a lot to do.

We went to Jamestown last Mon.  Ate lunch at the Red Lobster.  I didn't find much -- a pink cotton blouse with cuffs & a navy sweat shirt with a Christmas design on the front.

Bert had company last weekend from Madison.  Relatives.  He works for the Dept. of Health & Human Services.  Barb said they are nice people.  Barb mentioned JoAnna working at the Capitol & Paul being library dir. in Middleton.  Their names art Myrt & Tom Seiger.

Larry called yesterday for Dale but it was the Tues. he worked til 8 pm.  He called again -- his truck wouldn't start -- on East St. but it sas too late for Dale to help.  Some people at work would ask Dale to work on relative's cars after work.  He'd get paid but he doesn't need extra money & he doesn't like to work on cars after working on them all day.  Of course he'll help Lar.  Mike Brindis waned Dale to work on his car but he didn't.

The former beauty shop closed as of Sat. the 8th.  Jerry couldn't make it without Sheila & Sue.  He is going to become a Schwan salesman.  It is just the opposite for Sheila & Sue -- they are doing very well.

Thurs. Nov. 13

We had snow today that stuck to the trees.  Making them so pretty.  Barb had to shovel at Bert's but we didn't have to.

Thanksgiving is 2 weeks from today.  We'll have the usual menu & Kim said she'll bring pumpkin & pecan pies & a green bean casserole.  I said only 1 pie is necessary but she wants to bring both.  We'll eat about 5 pm.

Sat. Barb is going to Erie alone.  I don't care to go .  Barb wants to look for some tops & she'll stop at Target also.  I'm sure it will be crowded & I never seem to find anything I really like.

Lar's truck needed a new starter.  The first one he got wasn't the right kind.  Today he finally got the new starter in . It wasn't a hard job & it saved him a lot of money.  As it was it cost him close to $175.00.  If he would have had it done, it would mean a towing job plus the cost of starter & the cost of having it done -- labor.

Things are fine here.

Sunday, March 16, 2003

Artwork by Eddie Nelson

Yesterday I was up early due to a runny nose & cough & didn't want to make a lot of noise.   I sat in the chair with the afghan.  At 6:15 the telephone rang and it was the hospital.  Bert hadn't answered her phone.  So I woke Barb up & she called Bert & she answered.  The phone rang twice but when Bert answered no one was there.  Later in the day Bert called to apoliage make an apology (spelling wouldn't come) for waking me up early but I told her I'm an early rise.  She has this call to make sure she is OK.

I didn't feel good all day Sat, -- nose ran all day. But I did manage to make a batch of cookies & made chicken & spag. for dinner.  Was in bed by 9 pm.  Today I feel fine.  Dale had a headache Sat.

Today Christopher Darling was baptized.  H is wife's mother Roxie Sasserson (daughter Kristen).  They have a girl Emma and the baby Ian.  A big group of relatives in church.

You have a very active library with activities for all ages.  That is great.

Now that warmer weather is on the way -- hit the 60s Sat. & will today -- which job on your list comes first.  You'll be kept busy with what you hope to accomplish.

Rose S. was in church today & she said she has swelling in her legs & that isn't good.

We went to Jamestown last Fri. -- no school so Barb didn't have to pick Scott up after school.  We had lunch at Red Lobster.  I got a pair of light blue summer slacks at Bon Ton & a top to go with it at Sears.  I didn't plan to buy anything, but I couldn't resist the slacks & then I need a top that matched the color.  Excuses, excuses!

On Sun. aft. LeRoy Schneck has a radio program of oldies & since there is nothing that interests me on TV, I'm enjoying some old tunes.

Mon. A.M., the 17th

I'm taking a time out.  I've been up & down the attic stairs to put away some winter clothes & take down supp summer things.  (Guess I was thinking of food.)  Reason -- the bats come back sometime in Mar. & they like our attic, but I don't like them.  We should look for light coming thru & put foam there.  Just looking I can't see anything.  I should hire a House Detective (H&G) & see what should be done before "you guys" sell it.  I know there will have to be a railing by the attic stairs -- it would be very handy for me now.  Maybe I'll suggest it to Dale.

Wed. A.M. Mar 19

I'm glad I'm not in Denver with the blizzard the state is having.  Everything is closed down. The Weather Channel keeps us informed.

Mr. Collins is a real nut -- he sweeps the road in front of his house to the other side edge. He doesn't care about the traffic.  And he was moving his backyard already & the grass isn't green yet or even growing.  And his equipment is so loud.

Scott told Barb he would like 12 of the choc. surprise cookies I make.  They are his favorite now.  He'd like them for his July birthday.  Every time I make them Barb brings him a couple. At least he'll have memories of homemade cookies.

The snow (piled up mounds) is just about gone.  And much faster due to the warm weather. Rain is predicted but I don't think it will mean flooding.  The creek isn't that high.

I can hear Barb moving around so I'd better get busy before I lose my ambition. It's easily lost!  Later.

I washed the floor this A.M., started dinner rolls, made a good lunch for Dale.  Why -- because yesterday I forgot all about it being Dale's long day at work & didn't fix a good lunch & forgot an extra snack, which he added himself.  Made up for it today.  After cleaning up after lunch, I made a batch of choc. cookies, then formed my rolls.  While they were raising, I baked the cookies.  Then the rolls.  Now the rolls are in the freezer, the cookies frosted & put away.  And I'm enjoying a cooky & coffee.  Too bad you're not closer.

The other aft. there was a smell in the laundry area.  I smelled the sponges, my basket of leaflets, & even the rug around the toilet.  No odor.  Finally I smelled the drain in the tub. That was the culprit.  Put in soda & vinegar followed by boiling water & that did the trick. When I told Dale about ti, he said if the pipe dries out you get the gas odors so I must be sure that I put water in it as we don't use it that much.  The sink was put in when we moved here as then we had a suds saver washing machine.

Thurs. Mar. 20

Well we are at war & all the networks are covering it so I don't get to see my soaps.  But I can turn to Hallmark TV & watch 2 hrs of Perry Mason.  I'm watching Fox TV & it is interesting to hear what is & will happen.  I don't know how much they really know.

We didn't get our Warren paper this A.M.  I called the newspaper but still no paper.  With the former owners I could depend upon our paper to come 15 min. after I called.  We don't have a very reliable paper boy.  And the USA wasn't in the mail either.  It's not my day newspaper-wise!  They drive the paper & I suppose the war news held it too late to be delivered on time.

I'm enjoying TV & have covered all the news I know or can remember!\

Sunday, March 2, 2003

I've been watching golf with Tiger vs. David Thoms.  They are on the 35th hole & Tiger is 1 up.  It's been a good game.  Yesterday we were disgusted -- the TV went off in the aft., came on for about 15 min. & then off again.  And golf was coming on.  We didn't get it back til close to 10 pm!  By then it was bedtime.  It was so quiet -- Barb watched a video & Dale did also.  I worked on my puzzle.

Another quiet day & not because Dale is that noisy.  He went to Ohio today with Craig Williams who also works at Shults.  They went to a tool sale.  So I didn't make a meal.  He left at 6:45 A.M. & at 7:15 pm, he isn't home yet.  It has started to snow a bit.  Craig must be about your age.  He married young and is now a grandfather.  He's a nice fellow.

Last Fri. we went to Jamestown & ate lunch at Red Lobster.  Barb had her favorite meal but the luncheon size or portion.  I had fish.  All I bought was a mattress pad for Dale's bed.  With the thicker mattress the old covers don't really fit, & don't stay on that well.

Do you recall the Bob Bensons?  Their son Keith's daughter was baptized today.  They live in Pittsburgh but haven't settled on a church there.  Can't remember if one daughter was your age.  They, Benson's, had 2 girls & 2 boys.

Thanks for the picture of Andy.  He looks different -- his hair is darker.  It is just hard to believe he is growing up.  When I think of you & Lar in the 50s & Barb getting close, that is hard to believe as well.

Tues. Mar. 3rd

Last Sun. Dale called about 8 pm saying they would be late coming home due to an accident on 80 & bad roads.  They had been in the area of Canton, Ohio, to an opening of a new tool place, that was very large.  He enjoyed the day but not the weather.  They got home about 10:30 pm.

Last nite Dale told me Sam asked to borrow 50.00  Payday is tomorrow & Sam had to make a payment at the jewelry store.  He is suppose to have given Nancy an expensive engagement ring.  His friends think he has blinders on when it comes to Nancy.  It will be her 4th marriage, drinks like a fish & has had so many men in her life.  Nothing but a slut but they say "love is blind" & it must be.  No one thinks it will last.

Warren also called Sun. nite.  H e has a 9:30 appt. this A.M. at Warren Dental Arts & they wanted me to go to lunch with them.  This is Dale's long day & I like to give him a good lunch.  Barb made chili so he'll have a bowl of chili & a sandwich.  He gets 1/2 hr. off so if he's hungry he could go to Arby's for a sandwich.  Can't give up a lunch date with friends.

We woke up to more snow & no spring is in sight this week.  Alaska would like the snow we've gotten.

Late aft. Tues.

Had a good visit with Warren & Anna.  We went to Perkins & they had a new fish menu.  Anna & Warren ordered fish dinners & I had a fish sandwich & the fish was very good.  Soon they leave on a 2 week trip to visit New England relatives.  They are on the go all the time.  Anna is doing fine & you can tell Warren is losing weight -- his fat tummy has gone down a lot.  I think Anna's heart attack frightened him into losing weight.  He exercises by walking but the weather is such Anna can't do much walking outside.  Ted & Warren are doing much better than their wives.

I don't make good meatball but I tried again as we're having spaghetti & meatballs for supper.  I know my mother always used a mixture of beef & pork & sometimes veal but it is hard to find a mixture today.  That's when there were butchers to serve you.

Thurs. aft. Mar. 6

Got your letter today & I got another nice laugh of your explanation of the cats using the chairs for a bathroom.  Barb kept me informed on Bert's cats, who also soiled her chairs.  But they went outside & waited til 11 pm to want to go out & then would return at 6 A.M.  Bert stayed up to let them out & got up at 6 A.M. to let them in!  That is why Barb didn't like to sleep overnite -- that & a poor bed to sleep on.

I made a banana cream pie this A.M. & it looks delicious.  I scraped the pan so I know it tastes good.

I'm using a new recipe for making a corn pudding tonite.  It calls for a pkg. of corn muffin mix & French onion sour cream mix.  Both corn & creamed corn.  Hope it's good.  Having salmon & a piece of halibut for Dale who doesn't like salmon.

The cover of the latest Bon Appetit has a lemon layer cake that Barb said I could make for her birthday.  The brown sugar apple crisp with vanilla ice cream is different in that you add an egg yolk & 1 t. soda to the topping  Just noticed an interesting marinade for salmon. but it should marinate 2 hrs. & it's 4 pm now.  Then there is a cucumber sauce for it.  Have to try it another time.

Larry had to "earn" his dinner tonite -- he worked out my state tax and gave Dale a haircut.

P.S. to Barb's comments on Bert's cats.  They would come in at 10 pm & then want to go out at 2 A.M., coming in at 6 A.M. & Bert would do all that for them.  She misses cats but not the getting up, etc.  Had it wrong in the previous paragraphs.

We got a couple of inches of snow today.  Will it ever end -- will spring ever come.  More snow next week.

Saturday, May 1, 1999

I have something to write so I'll start a letter.  Barb said she would paint my bedroom.  We've talked about colors to match the one wall that has paper on it.  Them Barb said maybe you'd like to change the paper.  A thought that was in my mind.  But I would prefer painted walls rather than paper, & border on the top by the ceiling.  I decided to tackle the job of removing the paper which I started this A.M.  For some reason it comes off in 2 sections.  The top paper peels off easily & the glued part has to be moistened with DIF to make it easier & scraped but it comes off very easily.  I got all the print off & about 1/3 of the glued part.  Next Mon. I'll finish it.  At my age I take it easier!  I'd like to rearrange the furniture, if possible.  It's not a rush job.  Haven't chosen any colors yet.  Will have to choose the borders & get colors from that.  Don't want to change the blue draperies so maybe blues & rose.  Time will tell.

We had a nice time yesterday on our "trip" to Jamestown.  Oh yes, we sold the lift chair & that held us up so we didn't start til 12 pm.  Thurs. aft. I said to Barb if she wanted to take charge of selling the chair - ad, telephone, etc. she could have the money.  She called the ad in Thurs, was in the Fri A.M. paper.  Between 10:30-11 A.M. the telephone rang - someone was interested & said they'd be right over.  The chair was just what they wanted - larger as he is a big man - color & price.  They bot it & gave Barb a check for $250.00  I told her if I knew it would have been that easy, I would have done it.  But she's helping a lot with spring cleaning, etc. so it's fine.  First we went to Red Lobster & had a nice lunch.  I had broiled flounder & it was delicious.

We went to the Mall - looked.  I bot a purse at Bon Ton, some cards at Hallmark.  We had stopped at Brand Names & I got a cover for the porch glider.  We stopped at K Mart & Wegman's (groceries) & home by 3:30 p.m.  A nice outing.

Now it's Tues. after supper.  Dale is at the high school or Vo Tech taking an ASE test for work.  Last time he had to go to Oil City - now he can take it in Warren.  He has to have a test every 5 years to keep up.

This aft. I had an appt. with Dr. Keverline & was fitted with new glasses.  I chose a very light frame, a little different shape.  Like them a lot.  She said it takes about a week.  Their office is across from the hosp. so I hope they come in & at the same time I can get a blood test (for thyroid) at the same time.  See Dr. McNett Fri. the 14th in the aft.

Mon. we went into County Mkt & it was just about empty.  I got milk & a few other things.  Our last shopping trip there.  Be nice if another store would go in there.  Big K has increased their food area & you can pick up milk, etc. there.

Still working on the border in my room.  When it's on a painted wall it takes longer.  The wall behind the bed is plastered & has never been painted.  Nice & smooth.

Today the gal that assists Dr. Keverline couldn't believe my age.  She wouldn't have guessed that.

Fri. nite.

I'll bring this to a close and say think you for the beautiful basket of flowers that arrived this A.M.  So colorful & the roses in the bouquet are a lovely blush color.  I will enjoy their beauty.

Your letter arrived today.  I'm lazy.  The next letter will say more.