Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Yolanda, Mardi's mom, called today.  She heard from Mardi & wondered how you are doing.  I told her everything was fine -- she sends you her best wishes.

Dale was home at 5:30, early for him -- he loves his job so much.  Ha, ha!  After a little rest and is now cleaning his car. In the summer he doesn't want to eat til 8 pm.  So his dinner is in the fridge.  I was eating when he came home.  Barb went to Wegman's, after she was through with Scott.   She will take care of her meal, most likely a salad.  Dale will eat at 6 pm on Thurs. when Lar & Kim come.

We will have beautiful weather for Memorial Day weekend.  Finally it is warming up.  I can put a lighter blanket on my bed.  I've been using my elec. blanket thru the first part of May Y&^ the furnace has been coming on.  Now no more for awhile, I hope. 

Buffalo is one happy city because of their hockey team.  For people who can't get or afford tickets, they can watch the game in a big screen set up in one of the parks.  It will be a nice night to be outside.  They are charging 2.00 & the money goes to a charity, mostly likely a soup kitchen.

For 2 nites Barb took the flowering plants inside because we might have a freeze.  We didn't but she didn't ant to take a chance.

I'm enclosing 2 coupons you should be able to use.

I don't remember much about Mother's Day.  A couple stand out.  Once Dale gave me a miniature loving cup saying "World's Best Mother".  I still have it.  I think he got it for me because Jeff Y. was getting one for Sylvia.  Next was when you all were gone & Dad gave me a pretty silver necklace.  I mentioned I liked it but never tho't he'd get it for me, so I was surprised.

One of my favorite meals is meat balls or loaf, scalloped potatoes & green beans.  Dale also likes it.  He is pretty good to like most of my meals.  Once in awhile there are "duds", esp. if I try a new recipe.  Then I throw that recipe away -- it won't get used again.

The obit in today's paper listed Joanne Scordo, but didn't have a full obit.  I'm sure she was the phy ed teacher's wife.  You remember Mr. Scordo.

Had my teeth cleaned yesterday.  My dentist wasn't in so the gal checked my teeth & didn't see anything or such.  Dr. Walters is my dentist. 

I almost forgot -- Last week's subway series in NYC.  The Mets took 2 out of 3 & should have won all 3.  It was exciting.  Sun. nite I stayed up way past my bedtime.  I had to see if the Mets could hold their lead & they did.

Mon. Nite I watched N.Y. Yankees at Boston on ESPN & tonite is the 3rd game in the series on ESPN.  It seems like ESPN is the Yankees' personal TV station.  They seem to be shown all the time.  Maybe I'm just jealous.  I don't see the Mets that often.  I root for Boston.  Big surprise!!

Yesterday I called Larry & wished them a Happy Anniv. & said they'd get their card on Thurs. when they are here.  Torey is showing his age -- doesn't like to walk much anymore. 

Dale said starting in Aug, their checks from work will be direct deposit into their banks.  Some guys aren't happy with the move but I guess it is easier in the office.  It doesn't bother Dale.  He doesn't need his paycheck like married guys do.  Some guys, when they get their pay, spend the nite in the bars getting drunk.  I'd hate that if I were the wife.

We'll have some good meals over the holidays but not much going o.  Barb will ride her bike, & most likely Dale will start his sun tanning.

Patty Welsh Phillips gets married this coming Sat.  2pm at church.  I'm very happy for her -- he seems like a nice fellow.  Comes to church with her & works in the same office she does.  He must be divorced as he has a son.

John Wertz, a classmate of Barb's shot himself in front of his wife.  They lived next door to Betty Casey on Dartmouth St.  She said that caused a lot of excitement on her street.  Tough on the wife.

Fri A.M. the 26th

Just home from getting my hair done.  Hollertzs have to come to Wrrn, so they'll pick me up for lunch.  Later Barb & I will to go the Mall.

This is your busy weekend. Kim is busy also, hosts a bridal show3er for a friend's daughter on Sat.  Sun she is up early to play golf -- benefit the new bldg. for stray animals, etc.

Sunday, November 7, 2004

Dale & I are excited with the Steelers & how well they are laying with a rookie QB.  It's so nice to see them win again.  Barb is still a Buffalo fan.  I've just been waiting for Pittsburgh to get good again -- like the days of yore!  When was it the 70's with Terry & all the good players.  And I can't recall their names.  Shame on me.  I'll have to learn present team names like Bettes & the QB has a long last name. They call him Big Ben &^ the guys are behind him 100%.

We got a new telephone -- we've called out but we've had no incoming calls. Elections are over.

It's been a beautiful day here.  I picked a rose bud today.  But snow is forecast over nite -- showers, I hope.  But we're lucky -- first week in Nov. & no frost yet.   Even the tree in front of the house has lost its leaves.

I have my Christmas cards & hope to have them addressed in a couple of weeks.  Wonder who I won't hear from because of death.  My list of shrinking.

We'll have to mail our pkg. to you folks Nov. 29th the latest, so JoAnna gets her birthday gifts.  Paul, you didn't give us many ideas other than things about Warren.  But there are 3 of us who need ideas.  Kim doesn't need ideas.  She knows what she's giving.

When I went to the dentist last Fri, I got right in & was home in about 3/4 hour.  Dr. Walters knows my age as once he said "I wish my Dad was in as good a condition as you are."  Dr. Walters's sister was in your class if I remember correctly.  I like Dr. Walters a lot even if I don't look forward to going to the dentist.

Even tho this will be a busy week, Barb & I plan to go to Jamestown Tues. aft.  Tues. is Dale's long day so we won't go til after lunch.  Scott goes to tutoring after school so Barb doesn't have to pick him up.

I was lazy today.  I ordered pizza.  But Fri. nite when Dale got home from Rochester I fixed him a steak dinner.  Last nite we had chicken & spaghetti so I figured we could have an easy meal tonite.

Tues. the 9th of Nov.

Barb & I went to Jamestown after lunch.  We added more to our Christmas shopping & I bot a suit for myself.  A gray jacket & pants to match.  Not a set as I need one size for the jacket & a different size for the slacks.  I got it at Bon Ton.  Dale gave me a Bon Ton gift certificate & that went toward the outfit.  So I should be set for awhile.  But it's been a long time (Erie trip excluded) since I've added to my wardrobe.

Last Sat Barb wanted to order something from a catalog & used my Discover Card.  It didn't go thru so she called Discover Card to see why.   They asked questions she couldn't answer so she gave me the phone.  In the course of the conversation they asked if Barb would like a card on my card.  We agreed & they told me I'd be responsible.  I realized that.  The card came today so now Barb can use her card to order things, & pay for them.  It's strange it wouldn't go thru as I used the card for an order from that place in Boston & paid for it already. Maybe numbers got mixed up.  I never can remember that store's name, no matter how hard I try.  Chadwick -- finally.

Barb has 2 angel ornaments she got a Gayle's Christmas Store & hoped to get another one last Sat. when we were there, but they were all gone.  She must have told Lynn as Lynn said she'd look on Ebay.  She called Barb last nite to tell her she found 2 of them. Barb said get them both.  She is pleased to find them. She hangs them on the wall.

There was a new program tonite on the Discover Channel.  "Dr. G" who finds out why a person dies when there seems to be no real cause.  A coroner's job.  Dale was watching it too.  Very interesting to find out what the body can tell thru autopsy.

Thurs. the 11th

I'm all set for company.  I started  yesterday, got the taters washed, snipped the ends off the beans, etc.  I won't start the chicken until noon as they won't be here til one.  I like that as both Barb & Dale will be gone & I'll have the kitchen to myself.  Made pumpkin pie before breakfast.  Early to bed, early to rise -- that's me.  Maybe the healthy but not the weather & wise!

Tomorrow I'll be lazy.  After I get my hair done, I might shorten my new slacks.  They are just a little too long to suit me -- I want to wear them Sun.

Warren just called to check.  Told him I was ready for them.  He wanted to know what he could bring -- I said just yourselves.

My day is over -- 8:11 p.m. & I'm feeling fine.  We enjoyed being together -- Warren, Anna & I.  It was an easy meal to prepare -- both times.  They left around 4 pm & I got the dishes in the dishwasher & cleaned up.  Then it was time to start over & it was another good meal & fellowship.  Now I'm relaxing & watching TV after a nice day.

Kim won't be here next Thurs so I think I'll have a beef roast for supper.  That day Dale goes to school for 1 day in Rochester but he'll be home by 7 or so.

October 31, 2004

Your last letter had a question.  Maybe it isn't for me to answer but I will anyway!  "Is he deserving of having cable TV installed in his room?  You be the judge!"  My answer is Andy is a r. in hi school & that means he'll be home for the next 2 years & then off to college.  and who knows what part of the U.S. he'll end up in.  So I say put cable in his room!  You mother has spoken!  Does it cost more?  We have 7 TVs on our cable .  Of course Dad & Dale put it in themselves once we were on cable.  We pay 48.98 for cable TV & I guess we get our money's worth.  '

The maze sounds very interesting.

Our electricity has gone out 3 times recently, yesterday being the 3rd time.  IT's back in 15 or 20 minutes.  It means changing clocks -- so we did it twice yesterday.  End of day light savings.

Mon. Nov. 1

This is Dale's early week so I was up early & after getting things ready for breakfast, I started to make brownies.  Why?  I got a perm today & I wanted to bring some for Sheila & Sue as a late trick or treat.  I'm glad to have curl in my hair again.

Barb wants to be at the polls early Tues. A.M.  She thinks there will be a good turnout & wants to beat the crowd.

Dale has to go to Rochester Thurs & Fri, the 4th & 5th, for schooling.  Another fellow will go with him.  He'll miss Lar & Kim on Thurs.  Yesterday Lar tilled the soil in the garden.  Barb was pleased.  She had gotten "stuff" to enrich the soil.  Hopefully we'll have summer next year so the garden yield will be better.

8:07 Election Day

I'm waiting for Barb so we can vote.  She wants to go early.  At least we can forget the TV ads & phone calls for awhile.

Warren H. called yesterday.  He doesn't have to go to the dentist on Wed.  He serves a small church & a member would like Communion on Wed. as her son is home.  So they asked if Thurs. would be OK.  I said yes -- it will make for a busy day as Lar & Kim come Thurs. nite.  I'll have the same menu with a few changes to make it easier.  Like baked potatoes for one.  I make a meal as it is easier than planning a luncheon.

Our voting is over.  I was 145.  It is a large room & 3 voting areas are in the room.  Now that I've been out I don't feel like doing anything & it's not even ( A.M.  I'll have a cup of coffee & that should spur me on.  Maybe, maybe not.

Thurs A.M., the 4th

Last nite I awoke about 2 AM & went to the bathroom, back to sleep.  Awake about 3:20. Turned over & back to sleep to be awoken by Dale turning the bedroom light on.  He was ready to go -- didn't want to wake me, but afraid I'd be made if he didn't.  He was right.  I jumped up, fixed some snacks & he was off to pick up the other fellow in Jamestown.  Now they should be in class, 8:30 A.M.  

Went back to bed for an hour & got up at 6.  I ate, read the paper, did dishes & wiped off the counters, moving things to do a good job.  Got the garbage out, had another cup of coffee & decided to write more in this letter.

Naturally Barb was very unhappy with the results of the election.  I'm sure it is the same with you folks.  Already the paper writes candidates are being thought of for both parties.  Please give us a little break from all the ads & calls.  We still got calls Tues. aft. & we had already voted.  I don't like to be interrupted when watching my soaps!!!  Too bad, huh?

It doesn't look like there will be any hockey this year.  The All Star game was cancelled.  I like to watch that -- the skills part.  They won't agree to a pay limit -- can't get the correct word.

Fri I see the dentist at 10:30 A.M. & I hope I won't have to wait too long.  Lost a filling.

Back to Tues.  I did do some work. The kitchen cabinets needed cleaning.  I used the orange 409, spray it on, clean with a sponge & wipe it off with an old towel.  Voila!  A nice shine & not too hard to do.  So they look nicer for company.  Hollertz's don't go much for desserts.  I made the Russian Tcakes, one of many names they have, as Dale like them & took some today for a snack.  Fri. aft. I hope to make Spritz but I'll also make a pumpkin pie so I'll have dessert for supper.  I got lazy & tried Pillsbury pie crust & it is good.  I won't use it all the time, but it sure makes it easier.  Esp. if in a hurry.  OK so I'm lazy!  Old ladies have a right to be lazy.  I'm making a pie for supper -- trying the cranberry pecan pie using the Pills. crust!  Better get going.  

Still Thurs.  Kim was more herself tonite even saying Torey is getting old.  Maybe she has come to realize animals don't last forever either.

They liked the cranberry pecan pie.  It is good, but the crust stuck a bit to the pan. Sometimes I grease or Pam the pan but not this time.  

Three weeks from today we'll be eating turkey.

Monday, May 24, 2004

This aft. I went to the dentist.  Cleaning & a checkup.  No cavities -- happy day.

Tomorrow Dale goes to school with another fellow.  Near Pittsburgh so it will be a long day for him.  They leave at 5:30 A.M.  The other fellow said he didn't have any money in case they needed gas along the way.  I asked Dale what about lunch.  He said he'd probably have to treat.  Payday is Wed.  This fellow isn't married but spends his time in bars.

We've had some ants in the kitchen.  While I was watching TV, I could hear him in the kitchen cleaning.  He told me he cleaned the sink good & around it so there are no crumbs for ants.  He should be a husband.

Tomorrow A.M., early I hope, we'll get groceries.  It is Bible Study at church & I want to make a fruit salad for the pot luck but I don't have all the ingredients I need.  It's at 11 A.M. for an hour & then lunch.

When I talked to you on Sun, I forgot to mention the game Tom Glavine pitched.  Almost a no hit.  I was rooting for one but it was a one hitter.  I watched & rooted for Arizona's Johnson when he pitched his no hit against Atlanta.  It was great.  The Mets hit the 500 mark.  Hope it stays that way & goes up.  I can dream, can't I!

Wed. May 26

Barb got home about 5:30 after outpatient surgery.  Only the fibroids (ovaries) were removed. Lar took her for an 8:30 appt & Barb had his cell phone & called him.  They don't decide til 5 pm if the patient can go home.  Kim got a prescription of pain pills for her.  She has to see the Dr. in 2 weeks.  She hadn't had any thing to eat so I made her a peanut butter jelly sandwich -- her choice.  Lynn called & I told her what happened.  Barb wasn't up to talking now.

Larry received a call from Charles S. last weekend.  They are going to Syracuse & will stop off in Warren & take us out to lunch.  I don't know if they are looking to stay overnite -- maybe Lar & Kim could invite them.

Went to the library last Fri. (paid my $10.00 membership dues) & got 4 books.  Read 2 of them & enjoyed them.  A new author Dorothy Garlock's Mother Road.  Other authors: Barbara Taylor Bradford, Mary Baloch, & Lilian Jackson Braun, "The Cat Who Brought the House Down".  I've read her before & like her books once in awhile.

I used the crockpot for swiss steak.  I left it going so Dale won't have to zap his dinner.  Then I'll clean up.

When we got groceries yesterday I had a big order.  Dale would take me if I needed something & Kim said if I needed anything on Sat. she'd get it for me when she shops at BiLo.

There are no restrictions on Barb.  She can do things as she feels better.  Work, drive, etc.

The one rose plant Lar planted has buds on it.  I'm anxious to see the color.  The only flowers needing water are the hanging baskets   The rest have plenty with all the rain we've had.  We're suppose to have a nice weekend but maybe rain on Memorial Day.  We don't have anything planned for the holiday.  I'll watch baseball.  Tonite ESPN 2 has Boston vs. Oakland.

Dale needs new mufflers for his Monte Carlo but can't find any he approves of. He ordered some locally but returned them.

It has really surprised me that Mass. has allowed same sex marriages.  Never thot that would happen.

Dale was telling me about Randy Swanson's stepson.  He's really good on the computer & was in one of the southern states but has returned home.  Is living at home with his "boyfriend"!  Dale says "Poor Randy".

Thurs the 27th.  Last nite Dale was talking to our new neighbor.  He is comptroller at the Forge.  They are doing well & he told Dale the Forge is a gem.  I'm glad they are successful so we won't lose jobs.  Some slackers weren't rehired when the owners took over.

Barb is doing OK but she hasn't been able to keep anything down.  She said later she'll have some fruit.  She showed me her tummy & they went thru the navel & 4 other spots covered with a bandaid. Gen just called last nite so I told her about Barb.  Now I should call Millie. Gen will probably call her & tell her about Barb.

I'm trying a new chicken recipe that sounds interesting.  You flatten a chicken breast U& put a spinach filling in it, fold it over & fasten with toothpicks.  You add onion, cracker crumbs & parsley to the spinach.  Marinate the flattened chicken in Ital. salad dressing.  Almost forgot that so I'd better start pounding so they can marinate 2 hrs.  It's just mid A.M., so I have plenty of time.  Bake the chicken & pour a cheese over the individual pieces of Lar & Dale don't really like sauces so I might omit that.

Barb had her ovaries and fallopian tube out.

Fri the 28th

Dale said the new neighbor wondered if the El Camino went with the house as he saw it parked in Carey's garage when they looked at the house.

Last nite Lar said he wondered if he'd have much extra work this summer & he will.  He just got another landscape job & he won't be able to do it til fall.

Back to the El Camino, when Dale talked to the new neighbor, he wanted to look at the El Camino closer.

Will be anxious to hear about the wedding.

Sunday, June 8, 2003

Just finished watching Seattle cream the Mets.  1st game of a double header.  We don't get the 2nd game, so I turned Fox Sports Pittsburgh & will watch Pittsburgh 3, Atlanta 2, in the 5th.

Marie Mathis called me to let me know Pastor Risher died Sat.  We talked about a new pastor & she heard some don't want a woman pastor.

Barb won't be taking care of Scott during the summer so we plan to go to Jamestown Mon. A.M. & she'll go to Bert's in aft.  We'll grocery shop at Wegman's.  Wed aft. I see Dr. McNett & Thurs. A.M. I go to Dr. Walters, dentist.  It will be a cut up week.

Last Fri. I got 2 library books & read them already.  An Accidental Woman by Barbara Delinsky & Kate Hannigan's Daughter by Catherine Cookson.  Both were excellent -- enjoyable.

Barb has had bifocals for some time.  For when she knits & watches TV.  I talk about getting sun glasses but never do anything.  I haven't called to have my eyes checked because I can't walk home & Barb can't always pick me up.  Next Tues. Kim will take me to the Dr. & Barb will pick me up.  They say the bridge will come down around the first of July.  They can't wait too long without a bridge being erected.

Mon. the 9th

We had heavy rain last nite & a little got into the basement so Dale is cleaning it up now.

This A.M. we went to Jamestown.  A fast trip -- I got a girdle & a purse at Bon Ton. Half price plus a 20% off coupon so they were good buys.  Barb found a top she liked.  We walked thru Sears but didn't stop.  On to Wegman's.  We got some Paul Newman ginger snaps & they are so good.  Cream filling.  We'll buy them again.  So good if you like molasses.

Had planned to have hamburgers tonite but Barb asked me to hold off a day.  She planned to have leftover pizza & a salad.  So I had to decide what to have.  I had frozen ravioli so I cooked it, put it in spaghetti sauce & heated it up in the microwave.  So easy & so good, along with a salad.

Gary Risher was only 56 years old.  He had been sick for 2 years & it sounded like he just gave up.

Last nite I watched the Yankees at the Cubs in Chicago & what an exciting game.  The Cubs pitcher was so good for 6 innings when I turned off the TV in the bedroom.  But I couldn't get to sleep so I decided to watch the game -- it was the 89th inning & the Yankees were getting runs, but the Cubs held them off.  It made me happy.  The Braves keep winning -- and the Mets win one & lose many more.  Too many injuries.

It's been a nice day & I got my chores completed.

Tues. the 10th

Barb rode her bike this late aft. & she was in front of the state hosp. when a groundhog crossed her path & she rode over it & it threw her off her bike.  She landed on her back & laid there for a minute or two.  A lady came to check & Barb said she was OK & rode home. The wheels on the bike wobbled so she'll have to have it checked.  She is sore all over & it hurts to walk. She is using the cane I got for Dad.  She'll be sore for awhile.

About 8:30 this A>M. Warren H. called telling me about going out to lunch in Pittsfield.  The old hotel now the Acock Inn.  They will pick me up.  Warren told me he talked with a pastor friend from the O.C. area from 11 p.m. to 12:15 A.M.  Then he decided to watched TV & didn't get to bed until 2:45 A.M.  And Ted Benson woke him up with an early morning call to tell him our friends in Ohio can't come this time so they changed where we'll have lunch. Then Warren called me.

Dale won't be home for lunch either Thurs. or Fri.  Thurs. they'll have a lunch mtg. to talk about health insurance.  It has been raised 50% & they're hoping to change companies.  Fri. will be their regularly monthly work mtg.  He wants me to pack a sandwich for him on Thurs. as he doesn't know if there will be food at that mtg.  They always have pizza at the work mtg.

Wed the 11th

Barb is still sore but is feeling better.  Kim took me to the Dr. & waited for me.  We went Pa. Ave W & came home Dorcon Rd.  There was so much traffic going over.  Much easier going home Dorcon Rd.

My blood pressure was higher so he gave me a new prescription & I go back in 30 days to have the nurse check my blood pressure.  Dr. McNett said this is a pill that is also good for the heart & kidneys. The bad part it can make you cough so I hope it won't bother me.  It made him cough in the aft. so he had to go to another pill that is more expensive.  The new pill I'll take isn't that expensive -- none of my prescriptions are, so I'm lucky that way.

Everyone remarks about the rainy weather.  Even at noon Dale wondered when the sun will shine. It does get a person down. Dale wants to mow the lawn -- the rain makes it grow so fast.

Just noticed another cooky recipe in the new Bon Appetit.  Oatmeal cookies with raisins, dates & walnuts.  also copies the Turtle Bars that sounds so good -- for around the holidays.  When I get a permanent I usually bring a treat for "the gang" -- they are all so nice.  Have a perm. coming up the last Mon. of June so will have to decide what to make.  When Jerry came to the house to cut Dad's hair, I always had a treat for him.

When I got weighed to day I had lost 5 lbs -- I've been cutting down on snacks.  Barb spurred me on.  She has lost weight but hasn't reached her goal yet.  I just didn't want to see the scale go up anymore.

Thurs the 12th.  I got all the work done in one visit to the Dentist & I'm glad of that.  We've had so much rain today.  Larry wasn't able to finish all eh wanted to do at Carey's   He got the lawn moved & hoped to do some trimming.

All for this session.

Houston's no-hitter against the Yankees was super, even it if took 7 pitchers!

Monday, May 19, 2003

I'll start out with the news that we won't be going to the reunion.  Reason.  I don't think Lar & Kim will be going & even if they do they'll also drive.  Our car insurance won't allow Dale to drive our car & Barb doesn't care to do all the driving.  So we'll have to call & cancel our reservations.  It is a long trip for just a few days.

This aft. I went to the dentist for a cleaning, check up & had 1 filling.  I go back in June for a filling and I didn't realize the filling for my root canals is a temporary one so he'll be fixing that.  And now I can feel I lost a filling -- can fell the hole with my tongue.  My teeth are costing me money   Bat at least they are mine.

Yesterday after church, there was a mtg to decide on a handicap elevator by the Concord Elevator, Inc. It will be installed at the entrance door nearest Division St.  Will hold a wheelchair & 2 people.  The elevator will cost $21,686 + 3 safety locks.  Site readiness $5400.  Other expenses estimated to be $3000.00, totaling $30,000.  They hope to use $20,000 from the Albert Johnson estate leaving the congregation to raise $10,000.  The project passed.  The recommended each family give 1.00 a week for 3 years.

Dale left Sun. for 2 days of school. They changed the location from Rochester to Youngstown, Ohio.  He'll be home Tues. nite.  He was suppose to go the same day as his Dr. appt. & told them he couldn't go.

Thanks for the pictures.  The patio furniture looks so nice.  I like the arrangement in the living room.  A nice picture of you holding Boxer.  The animal shelter is having a gold event to raise money & Kim is helping.  She got Dale to donate $25.00 & a hole will have Torey's picture on it & Dale's name for donating.  That must be some arena in Mpls.  In the one picture, the front looks so bare but the other one shows greener grass (result of all the rain -- here as well) & your front yard project.  It will look very nice.  You have a good start.  Is the lamp by the door new -- can't remember seeing it.  Or maybe it didn't sink in.

We got groceries today.  Then the dentist so I haven't felt like doing much except watch TV.

Did I mention they changed the voting place from Calvary Baptist youth area to Holy Redeemer hall.  Barb will take me over & I'll walk home.  Then I'll have to do some work, i.e., dust, clean the bathroom, etc.  Wed we plan to go to Jamestown.  Bert comes home this Thurs. so Barb won't be able to work odd hours.  Like she cleaned Bert's upstairs & after she was thru with Scott she planned to go to Bert's to mow the front yard & check the floors she's been working on.

Wed. the 21st.  At 9:30 A.M., we went to Jamestown.  I got a girdle at Bon Ton -- plenty on sale but nothing I wanted.  Ditto Sears & Penney's.  Then we went to Wegman's for groceries & home again.  I had told Dale we wouldn't be home at lunch time but it was a quick trip.  Barb felt like buying something but saw nothing she liked.

My back is giving me trouble.  After I sit, it takes awhile to straighten up.  So I made an appt. with the chiropractor for 3 pm tomorrow aft.  That will straighten me out.  He doesn't keep one coming a long time.  Maybe 2 visits.  They give a heat treatment that feels so good -- a vibrating one.

The former commissioners were not re-elected.  Too many people not satisfied with their job. We'll see what the new ones will do starting Jan 1.  Also 4 school board members were not re-elected.  People won't want a new grade school near the high school, as well as closing schools, etc.

Thurs the 22nd.

My back feels much better following my trip to the chiropractor.  I'll get 1 more treatment on Tues. & he told me to use the heating pad twice a day for 20 min. each time.

We gave Lar & Kim their anniversary card & gift of money.  They want to get another table & chairs for the deck & will use the money toward that purchase   Kim has been looking but can't find the color she wants.  Tomorrow nite they will go out to dinner with another couple.

Hope you had a nice anniversary.

Monday, August 21, 2000

Got your letter today.  Interesting newspaper article & a nice picture of JoAnna.

I didn't watch either political convention & always mute any commercials.

I sent that article to get your thoughts about the article & porn.  In this letter I'm enclosing an article from the Buff. Sun. paper concerning how hard it is to collect fines & books that are way overdue.  Do you have these problems.

\This A.M. I started to make dinner rolls.  Then I finally called for an appt. to have my teeth cleaned & checked.  Nothing until March but she said she'd check cancellations.  I could have had an A.M. appt. but that wouldn't work -- rolls would be ready for forming &  baking.  Had 2 aft. appts. & I took the 3:30 pm.  Got in right away & didn't have to wait long for Dr. Walters to check my teeth so I was home in an hr.  This time I made an appt. for May.  I don't get a lot of tartar on my teeth & other problems are usually a lost filling.  So that's out of the way now.

I also picked a qt. of blueberries from the 2 bushes in the yard.  They are really producing this year.

Called Gen last week.  They are fine.  Not much of a garden th is summer -- too much rain & deer & wild turkey are helping themselves.  They planted blueberries but they don't have many berries at all.  Gen said John would like to have a girlfriend but he doesn't know how to treat  girl.  He is too stingy with his money.  Should be more like Ed -- generous & interested in someone else instead of centering on himself.  I'm glad I had 4 children so you could learn give & take.

Kim was surprised to read how much it cost to register Andy in school.  Barb said it's a preview of college expenses.  They don't pay for anything here but Kim thinks it won't be long before they will have to charge for sports.

Carol Stedman (now married) is living in the old Parish House on Water St.  A couple of times I've walked home on 2nd Ave & seen her & she always speaks -- I don't know her personally -- but Lar & Barb do.  Lar & Kim were out to eat & Carol saw them & came over & gave Lar a big kiss & then talked for quite a while & didn't include Kim.  Kim wasn't very happy & wondered why Lar didn't introduce her.  I think Lar was too surprised to.  So Carol doesn't rate very high on her list.  Kim played golf last Sat & Lar didn't do any extra work because of a sore back.  Kim told him it's better to take a couple of days off rather than not work for 2 weeks.  So Sat. nite Lar & Torey walked over (Kim got home at 7 pm) to see "Grandma".  As soon as Tor was here, he looked all over for Kim.  They weren't here too long as they were going out to eat once Kim got home.  She was home before Lar & she figured they were over here.

I decided to quit reading for awhile & I'm putting a 1000 pc. puzzle together.

I'm watching Paramedics, one of my favorite programs.  It's from Phoenix tonite.

Heard on TV that Washington State is trying to interest children in reading by varying the library cards -- maybe more colorful, or a picture, etc.  Do you think that would help.  I can remember my Dad sitting in his chair reading the newspapers with Nifty (dog) on his lap.  My mother never had much spare time to read but I've always loved to read & still do.

Catherine Coulter's books are so good.  I must have her mixed up with another author as I thought her books were about Scotland, but they take place in San. Fran. or other Calif. areas.

We had hamburgers & corn on the cob for supper.  An easy meal in case my time at the dentist took longer.  The corn has been so good.  They surely planted a lot knowing people will pay 3.99 for 13 ears.  They've always been good for us.

Also got some peaches. I'd like to try to make a peach cobbler.

Have a couple of bills to mail tomorrow so will bring this to an end & have it ready to mail.

Friday, February 25, 2000

I finally called for a dentist appt. & saw Dr. Walters this aft. & Presto the hole is filled.  There wasn't much tooth left but he got it done.

I walked to the beauty shop this A.M. & it felt good to walk again.  Then I went to the post office for stamps; to the bank for next month's expenses & then to the new CVS.  It's a nice store.  Also walked to Dental Arts for my appt.  Nice to have clear sidewalks & warm weather.  We know it won't last but it's a good respite.  Wonder how March will come in.. Lion or lamb.

On Tues. Quality Mkts. give seniors a 6% discount.  Barb couldn't take me during the day so she suggested we go out to eat at Perkins & then go to Quality.  That's what we did & it was enjoyable.

Wed. nite was a 5 Star Banquet for the employees at Shults.  They are a 5 Star organization.  Dale had prime rib at Jackson Valley.  Happy hour first -- some were really drinking.  Afterwards some went out.  Randy S was designated driver & they didn't get home til 3:30 A.M.  Thankfully Dale was home between 9:30-10 pm.

It's none of our business but Barb & I wonder why if the boys get their homework done & done correctly, why couldn't they be rewarded with an hour or so of TV.

Do you remember Pam Valone -- you know the family & can't remember her married name.  2 daughters.  The  youngest has her pretty upset as she is going with a loser from Sheffield.  Kim has him in Health -- druggie, etc. Glad I'm going on 80.

Lar was over yesterday & trimmed the trees so they're even with the school fence.  He says they should fill in even more.  Imagine doing this in Feb.  We know it can't last but it's been wonderful.  Kim stopped by for a cup of coffee.

Was watching Nascar but now I've switched to golf.

Gen called last Tues. to say Aunt Esther died.  She was 100 last June but on life support.  But she was congested & no strength to fight it.  It must have been earlier.  I'm sure I wrote about it.  It  seems too familiar as I write.

Dale is getting his room ready for painting.  Put a lot of stuff in the attic.  The bedspread won't match the new rug too well -- brown against gray so I'll be on the lookout for a new one.  He's really gotten into it.

Finally wore my new dress today.  With the walks snow covered I prefer to wear pants.  The snow is all gone so I wore a dress & shoes -- not boots.  It's been springlike but we know it's still winter  But it's been a great break for us.  Just what we needed to spur us on.  Barb is thinking about planting seeds.  We'll look for some this week.

I need a change from puzzles & noticed in the paper a new author Teri Holbrook.  She is similar to P. D. James & Eliz. George & I enjoy their books.  On Fri. the library doesn't open til 10 AM & I'm thru with my hair appt. by 9:30 or so.  The new puzzles are so hard to match colors so it takes longer & I lose interest.  It's a week & I'm still not done.  Just sit & stare & find 1 or 2 that will fit.  But I finally finished it.

Now it's Monday, the 28th.

Dale chose the paint today.  An off white.  He'll paint the ceiling - he's patching holes now.  Figures he'll need to put on 2 coats.

Tried a couple of new meals lately.  Shrimp fettucini; & chicken & spaghetti.  Both went over well.  Recipes from my Quick Cooking magazine.  Nice to try something different, esp. when it is well received.

Did you notice in today's paper (Feb 29) "Warren Native sworn in as chief judge of S. Carolina Court".  First woman chief.  A classmate of yours.  Kaye G. Hearn.  Kathleen Wrenn Hearn, 11, held the Bible for her mother.  Could her last name have been Wrenn?  No one that name in the phone book.  She graduated in '68 also so you must know who she is.

Want to mail this when we go for groceries.  All is well here.

Sunday, August 16, 1998

What a difference a week makes.  Last Sun. our thoughts were on your trip home - now you've been home a week & Andy has his football equipment.

I was able to do some baking this past week, but it didn't cool off that much.  I'm looking forward to fall & cooler weather.

Barb has the first section of the porch rails just about completed.  This part goes faster.  Looks very nice.

I lost a filling in a back tooth so will see the dentist on Tues.  My 3rd visit in a short time after a 2 year absence.  Shouldn't let it go so long.

We've been watching golf from Redmond, Wn.  It's interesting.  Thurs - Sat. real nice weather - today, cooler & rainy.  It's a major & they are fun to watch.

This past week I finally got ambition & shortened 2 pair of lacks.  It's a job I don't like but a good feeling once it's done.

Kim & Lar have to decide on a car - if they buy the present one leased, it would mean a 5 yr. loan & they don't like that.  They are looking into a CRV Honda.  (I think it's Honda.)  But Kim prefers the regular shift & they are harder to find.  They'd like the color of their present wagon so 1st choice & a red as 2nd choice.  The salesperson is looking for one.  Wouldn't you know it - one was sold a couple of days before they called.  They get it in DuBois.  It will be a lease.

Dale went to Seaman's yesterday & got a fender for the Blazer.  First he cleaned it up good - it is good condition - no rust.  Then a coat of rust prevention & he spray paints it.  The Blazer had some dents so he got 2 new fenders thru the one who painted the El Camino.  It will look nice once he's completed the re-conditioning. It will be ready for winter.  Maybe this winter will be harsher.

Must write to Gen & I seem to have hit a blank.  Not much happens here.

It was great having you home & seeing how the boys have grown.  I'm proud of my grandsons as well as my sons & daughters.

Saturday, July 18, 1998

Thanks for the pictures, menu, etc. of your party.  Sounded like everyone had a great time.  I'd like to hear more about the food - sounded so good.  You have such a nice back yard for a party.

I can't believe how tall the boys are getting.  It will be fun to see them as well as their Mom & Dad.

Dale is on vacation this coming week.  He finds things to keep him busy.

Kim says one of her friends will be having 2 of her nephews visiting the week of the 9th & Kim said they will try to do a couple of things together.  They might be a little younger.

Now I'm on the porch with a cup of coffee, after a supper of baked beans, hamburgers & corn on the cob.  It's a beautiful evening.  The weather report:  By Wed. hi in the 90s, low in the 70s.

I saw Carey's go out & about 6:30 their alarm went off.  I couldn't find Larry & Paula wasn't home.  The police came to investigate & I told him we had a key but I don't know how to turn it off.  He could see the dogs running around - maybe they tripped the alarm.  It finally went off - guess the Co. is able to do that.

Kim went to Erie last Tues. to look for furniture & found what she liked at a discount store.  Looked other places first.  They plan to put their apt. sofa bed at camp in the den & the new one in the apt.  She got a couple of chairs also.  And Lar bot a water heater so you'll have hot water when you stay (sleep) there.

Please remember to bring the boys HELMETS as I'm sure Andy will want to ride the bike.  Our sidewalks aren't too good for roller blading but lots of kids have & use them.

Last Mon. I had a dental appt.  One of my front teeth needed a new filling as it was turning dark.  What an improvement.  It didn't hurt as the tooth had a root canal many years ago.

And I got my new lenses - same frames.  A big change & it has taken time to adjust.  Table & flat areas are at an angle but it's improving.  One eye wasn't seeing too well & there is a cataract growing but not close to being removed.

The cancer society had an all nite walkathon at Beaty to raise money.  The only drawback is they play music very loud & most of the nite.  It was quiet from 2 A.M.-4 A.M. & then you could hear more music.  Not good for sleeping.  They rasied about $27,000.00

Did you notice the Mets won 2 games in a row.  On Fox TV today.  In one inning they had 3 great outs - infield outs.  Sun.  The Mets lost today.

We're watching baseball L.A. vs. St. Louis.  The gold in England was exciting this aft.  I was rooting for Mark O'Meara.  He won.

Hot weather is returning - I hope for another cool spell so I can bake Andy & Eddie's favorite cookies in Pa. Maybe they have other favorites at home in Wi.  Hi in the 90s low in the 70s.  You ask about Paul's favorite cookies - maybe!

Looking forward to seeing you all.

Friday, July 3, 1998

I'm on the front porch again - supper & duties are completed.  Later I'll watch the Mets play in Atlanta.  Am looking forward to the All Star game.

Finally got to the dentist this past week.  Have to go once more to fix an old filling.  The one who cleaned my teeth said my gums are in very good shape for someone my age -- meaning an old lady!  Kept putting off calling for an appt, then my leg bothered me so it added up to 2 years since my last visit.

Barb has started scrappe - how do you spell it - to scrape the3 wood by the windows on the porch prior to painting.  She got the pain today.  Hopes to complete the job by your visit.

Today I got my hair done at 12:30.  Afterwards I went to the bank for my monthly needs, got Dad a pair of slippers & went into D&K, a favorite place to look at "Stuff".  It's in the old Murphy store now & much brighter.

We're going to Lar & Kim's on Sun - about 4:30 for a cook out.  That will be fun.  Hope Dad will be willing to stay awhile.

Usually we get groceries Fri. nite.  But Dale said Barb could bring the van up at 5 pm for an oil change.  The stores are opened tomorrow so while others are at the parade we'll to go the Mall & grocery store.  Will be less crowded.  Parades were fun when you kids were little.  Now it's a different story.  In today's paper it pictured chairs already in place for the parade.  Nothing like being an early bird.  Did you renew your subscription - if so, you know what I'm talking about.

Your letter came today - talk about busy people.  Seems like your days aren't long enough.

The other nite when I was washing dishes, I noticed someone was in Dale's car - but I tho't Dale was working on something.  A few minutes later I see Dad getting out of the car, so I went out.  He wanted to know where the keys were.  Told him it was Dale's car & besides he doesn't have a license anymore & doesn't drive.  He didn't believe me & got upset with me.  Doesn't like it that I take things from him!

Barb spent 5 hours (2 1/2 hours each) weeding at the library.  The 2 parts by the parking lot.  Her civic contribution.  Wonder if the new director is sorry he ever got into this mess.

Friday, October 27, 1995

Thanks for your letter.  I have a good start on Christmas - Bon Ton has had some great sales.  Really need ideas for Paul & JoAnna..

To celebrate the Bicentennial they will put an engraved brick walk in front of the theater.  Engraved names in blocks for 75.00 a brick.  Plan to get one for Dad & am thinking of getting one with Andy & Eddie Nelson on it.

I bought a paperback finally.   K is for Killer by Sue Grafton.

Also got a book by Sara Paretsky at the library, "Guardian Angel" & now I found I've already read it.  Also got "Texas Rich" by Fern Michaels & "The Nightingale Legacy" by Catherine Coulter, a newer book at the library.  If I couldn't read, life would be drab.

Went to the dentist for a cleaning & check & had 1 cavity & got it filled last Mon.  Next Mon. I get my yearly physical, which was postponed from a Sept date.

We are enjoying the World Series.  I stayed up to the end of the 11 inning game.  12:45 AM, our time.

Don't care for the TV set up - for the play offs & the 2 channels having to share.  Prefer A.B.C. but they talk too much to suit me.  I put together 2 puzzles while watching the games.  Prefer to be doing something as I watch.

When Barb first started bringing Scott here for a cooky, he was shy.  Now he comes in with a big "hi" & leaves with "goodby".  He is talking much more.

Barb wants to take Fri. Nov. 3rd off & she & will go to the Erie Mall to shop.

Stella is home from the hospital.  Did OK after the operation.  But the Dr said she'd either have to go to a nursing home or to Dan's for awhile, so she is with Dan & family.  Naturally she hopes to get to her own apt as soon as possible.

Signe is at Lila's this weekend as Carolyn will be at her college reunion.  Ruth called to let us know about Stella & told us about Signe.

Now it's Sat A.M., Nov. 4th & I'll finish this.

When talking about books, forgot to mention I bot "Chicken Soup for the Soul"  and have enjoyed reading the different stories by various people.  They are inspirational.

I had my yearly physical & all is well.  Visited the dentist, had 1 cavity & got it taken care of.  Got my eyes examined & just had 1 little change in my right eye.  He said my eyes are in fine shape, couldn't believe I was 75 & that whatever I was doing to keep it up.

Yesterday Barb & I went to Erie.  She drove & we had no problems - she is a good driver.  We went to a new dept store Kohl's & it is nice.  Ate at The Olive Garden & really enjoyed it.  T hen to Barnes & Noble Book Store.  Fun to look there.  Next Stop Toys R Us & we had fun there & just about finished the boys' shopping there.  (If only it were that easy to shop for their parents!!)   We weren't in the Mall for long as it was nearing 3 pm & we wanted to be on our way home.  Time went just too fast, but so much fun.

I was in bed by 10 pm & up at 6:30 A.M. as I couldn't sleep any longer.   Dad gets a hair cut this A.M. & then Barb & I will go to our Mall for a couple of things and get groceries.

We're having our first snowflakes this A.M.  Yesterday we were lucky, we had sunshine but you could feel it getting colder.

Finally met our new neighbors.  Halloween I made double batch of Danish & bro't over 8 & introduced myself.  The next day I got a nice note from her.  Al & Pat Herrera, Kyle & Alyssa.  We just talked at the door a few minutes.  In the card she said when she is "more settled we'd love to have you over".

Bob & Lynn bro't Marissa & Scott here for trick 'n' treat & I had 8 rolls for them.  And Lar stopped in after raking at Carey's & he got some rolls.  I'm known for something - my rolls!  Better than nothing!

Kim will be glad when 5 pm comes as then she will have completed more credits toward her master's degree.  Thurs nite after they left here, she had to complete a paper for this.  A new Sam's (WalMart) opened in Lakewood so they'll go out to eat & then shop there, etc.

Dale got a V.C.R. for his room & also bot & installed a garbage disposer for our sink.  Old one wore out.  All is well here.