All of us. Bing and Stenn in their Chinese silks.

Love

Mary

Stenn and Bing Salvesen - Don't they look happy.

A nice quiet day following the trip to the Lone Star State.

I slept a little late and then waited until light to take Chelsea for her walk so we could indeed have a walk. She liked that but tried to work her way into the park. The snow is piled so high that it will be some time before we can attempt that again. I am not taking any chances of falling again for sure. Perhaps when the roads and sidewalks are a bit clearer, we can walk around the ball diamonds and come back again. She likes that too.

I mainly just put things away and caught up on computer stuff today. I went to my New Year's Mass tonight at 4:30PM. Now tomorrow will be free for New Year enjoyment. I will be picking up Mother at about noon and Jim, Michelle, Bobbie and Bill will be joining us. I will feed everybody at about 1:00PM.

An old, tired-looking dog wandered into the yard.

I could tell from his collar and well-fed belly that he had a home.

He followed me into the house, down the hall, and fell asleep in a corner.

An hour later, he went to the door, and I let him out.

The next day he was back, resumed his position in the hall, and slept for an hour. This continued for several weeks. Curious, I pinned a note to his collar: "Every afternoon your dog comes to my house for a nap."

The next day he arrived with a different note pinned to his collar: "He lives in a home with ten children -- he's trying to catch up on his sleep. Can I come with him tomorrow?"

Isn't that a cute story?

Pictures will be on a post today too.

Love

Mary

Home Again! Home Again! Jiggedy Jog.

What a relief. It is the old saying. One LOVES to go away on a trip or vacation and then one LOVES to be home again. Robbie O'Connell wrote it very well in his song "It's easy going home again but hard to say goodbye."

The wedding was beautiful. It was so good to see Stenn so happy. He was almost giddy. Tomorrow I will download the pictures I took and post a picture of the happy couple for you to see. The wedding was at a restaurant called May Dragon. They had the whole back banquet room for the ceremony followed by the dinner and festivities. It was a lovely ceremony. A friend of Stenn's is a minister and performed the ceremony for them. A nice mixture of Chinese and American. We had about five different Chinese dishes from fish to duck to scallops and veggies. All interesting. I liked everything. The shell fish had a little much shell to suit me and the sweet soup was kind of indifferent but overall it was a nice culinary experience. They also served a Chinese wine that was WAY too much for me. George poured us all a little bit and I managed to sip a bit for each toast but mainly kept to the regular wines.

Bart was too sick to attend the wedding but was starting to recover this morning, at least he was holding things down. They are home safe and sound also. I called to be sure after I got home.

It is really an amazing thing to be in Dallas Texas at 1:30PM and in Plymouth WI at about 6PM. With a short stop at Randy's and Jim and Michelle picking me up. Then, Dick and I drove over to KFC for supper so I didn't have to cook. I am just resting now.

Tomorrow, I will post pictures and tell you a bit more about the trip as I remember it.

Love

Mary

I have the opportunity to be on the internet at the hotel so thought I would say HI to all. The trip here was perfect. We got out before the snow. Dick says there are 4 to 6 inches in Sheboygan.

The rehearsal dinner was SO pleasant. We got to introduce the two families and the members of the wedding party at an excellent Italian restaurant not far from her.

This morning Barb and I went on a five hour quilt hop. We both found treasures. I was freed up because Nora offered to ship things that won't fit in bags home for me. We went to three great shops.

Poor Bart is not feeling well at all. He seems to have a bug that has unsettled his tummer. We are trying to get him better for tonight.

I lost my itinerary but Barb showed me how to do this hotel stuff and I have a new copy in my hot little hands. The wedding is at 6:30 at a Chinese restaurant near here. We will get there at 6 as ceremonies are usually right on the dot and we will eat right after the ceremony. Such fun.

Take care. Until tomorrow.

Love

Mary

Yippee. I went to the doctor this morning at 8:15AM. Dr. Peschke said that my ankle is lookin' good! I do NOT have to take the crutches to Texas unless, of course, I want to play the sympathy card. (I DO NOT.) He did suggest that I use the brace for any long walks, like airports and such to provide some stability. Also, my blood pressure was back down to normal. We figure it was just the trauma of the pain of the sprain on that day that caused it to soar. So I am almost all well again and certainly ready for the trip.

I spent the rest of the day getting packed and all and trying to be sure the house is in order for Dick while I am gone. He has lots of food that is easy to find and prepare, so I am not worried about that. We got him all showered, stockinged and medicated so he will be OK until I am home on Sunday. Whew.

Chelsea was very quiet today and slept a lot. I think three days of company is very tiring for and old lady like her but she sure enjoys the company. When I get back if there is no ice, we will start walking again. That will definitely be a bonus for both of us. I am sure that by then walking will be the BEST exercise for my foot and I know that I need to be moving. I feel like a slug.

Richard made a movie of Brenda walking Chelsea. That is really a pleasure to watch. Did I tell you that my wallpaper on the computer disappeared? I wouldn't and don't care too much but I do miss seeing my Waylon looking at me. When I get to heaven, all of my critters will be waiting for me.

Now, remember, I will be gone until Sunday. I will tell you as much as I am able (depending on tired) about the trip on Sunday evening. Hopefully I will have a good picture of the bride and groom and of Bart and Barb for you.

I wrote a Haiku about getting rid of my crutches.

To talk with freedom
After being long constrained
I laugh for happy.


Love

Mary

Did you miss me? Our whole cable system was down from Christmas Eve until about 3PM this afternoon. We were really upset. The Time Warner guy came and fixed it. He found that a cable up at the top was severed. We believe that some critter has invaded our people domain as he also found corn and stuff under the TV as if it was being horded for the future. He checked all their ingresses into the house and put some DCon up into that area. There were no signs that anything could have gotten through there. As soon as I am able I will go and check our outlets for the dryer etc and see if the covers are off again. It is such a cold and snowy winter we could EASILY have some critter finding a warm spot in our pipes etc. Otherwise we may have to get an exterminator.

Christmas was truly wonderful. Bobbie and Bill, Jim and Michelle and Dick and Brenda were all here. Dinner turned out good. I fixed meatloaf, overnight potatoes, Brussel Sprouts, carrot salad and double chocolate upside down Potcheen cheesecake for dessert. All the gifts were well received and we loved ours so that went well too. After dinner we went over to Jim and Michelle's to enjoy their Christmas decorations and Boots. Altogether it was really great.

Today was quiet. We had Brenda and Dick with us until almost noon, a real delight. Then they headed up to Dick's mother's and we went grocery shopping. This afternoon was the visit from the "Cable Guy" and preparations for dinner. I have everything cleaned up and put away now.

I am trying to get ready for the trip to Dallas next. Tomorrow morning is my visit with the doctor to determine if I am healed. I am hoping against hope that I can go to Texas without those danged crutches. I do not hurt any more actually there has been no pain since the second day and have pretty much done everything I was told to do SO that should be that.

Dick has not been sleeping well and is not feeling as well as he should. I hope that maybe with me gone he will have a chance to rest. With my foot he has had an awful lot to do. Of course he will still have Chelsea, but I think that Jim and/or Michelle will help him with her. I am really looking forward to the break actually.

ANyway that is where I have been. I will post tomorrow night and then you will not hear from me again until Sunday night.

I know that I have put this in the blog before but at this time of year it is worth repeating.

Love

Mary

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand & a glass of wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

Can you believe that there is only one more day before Christmas. Christmas Eve is TOMORROW.

We stayed home all day today. I was very disappointed. It IS Sunday and I hate missing Mass, but it was slippery out there and the wind was horrendous. Not a great place for a 67 year old woman on crutches.

My foot feels fine. I weathered the Clancy Legacy with no complications and have now begun exercising the foot as the doctor instructed. I am determined to travel to Texas without crutches.

I started doing the prep work for the Christmas Dinner. I figure a little at a time is the best way. Today I made the carrot salad and the bread. I did get a pain in my side this afternoon, probably because I am holding myself oddly when I do some things like cleaning the microwave.
We wonder how long it will take Chelsea to realize that I am back "on the job" when I am all healed. Today Dick took her out several times and Jim and Michelle kindly came over an took her for as much of a walk as their poor little bodies could stand. Chelsea with her long fur coat seems to think that EVERYBODY should be able to stay out as long as she does. HAH! She is wrong. But she did get some exercise anyway.

Remember the Christmas pageant with "Gold, Common Sense and Fur."

Here is another one the at my brother and sister in law, Jeff and Kathy sent to me. It think it is great.


Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the
holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial
entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer.

So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly
taken aback by its bold title.

Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy
mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads.

Those in the front row - center stage - held up large letters, one by
one, to spell out the title of the song.

As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the
letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding
up his portion had presented the complete message,

"Christmas Love."


The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a
small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down -
totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W".


The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's
mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall,
proudly holding her "W".


Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter
continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together.

A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant,
we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the
first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our
festivities.


For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:


"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

And so He was and so He is. We are almost to his birthday celebration. Let's give Him the gift of peace and love.

All my love

Mary

A perfect day. We got up this morning at our usual time. I am on my second day of adding weight to my foot and tomorrow will start foot exercises. I still have no pain and am grateful.

The morning was rather quiet. I did a little cleaning in the kitchen and fixed breakfast and lunch for Dick and me so am feeling a bit useful again.

Jim and Michelle got home from a short jaunt to Minneapolis to the Mall of America this afternoon at about 2PM. They had a great time and seemed very refreshed. Dick asked Jim to pick up Chelsea's leavings as neither he nor I can bend down to to it at this time. Soon I think I can handle it again. That was alright BUT we had the door to the garage and the garage door open and Chelsea zipped down the stairs. When I realized she was there I called, but of course, she is deaf and didn't hear me. Poor Jim chased her all around the cul de sac. I don't think he is quite as relaxed as he was when he got home. She kept running just out of reach. Dick gave her a lecture when we got her back in. He told her that she had behaved in and unseemly manner and that he was ashamed of her.

Then at 3ish, Peg Payne arrived followed closely by John and Toni Nevicosi. We visited for a bit and then headed down to the Clancy Legacy concert at the Irish Center in Milwaukee. We took a side trip, despite the fog, to St. Francis to a polish restaurant that John and Toni like. I ordered a Polish Sampler plate which had Pierogi, stuffed cabbage, a polish sausage AND a potato pancake. It was delicious. I brought some home for us to share tomorrow.

Then on to the concert. It was great. We found out about half past 7 that there was a preact. A Jeff Ward, who was really good. I bought his CD. Then Robbie, Aoife, and Donel came on and gave us the nicest Christmas concert of music both instrumental and vocal and poetry. We were all delighted. I found Robbie during the break and we had a nice little visit and I gave him a copy of my book to give to Roxanne. They are hoping to be home by tomorrow night, Good Lord Willing and the snow and airlines cooperate. I bought Donel's CD also.

We are home save and sound well before the temperatures are supposed to drop and the snow to fall. I hope they are wrong about that as I would hate to miss Mass again. This has been a really bad year with snow and ice.

Now Christmas can come. I will spend the next couple of days cooking.

Love

Mary

It was a wonderful day. I am now putting some weight on that right foot and it still doesn't hurt. My wish is that when I go to the doctor on Thursday he says that I do not have to take the crutches to Texas. I will be as good as I know how til then.

It was a nice day. Dick was double busy of course, but I was able to fix the meals and load the dishwasher so that made it a little easier. Naturally this HAS to be the time that we are feeding Jim and Michelle's Boots as they are out of town. Usually this is my job but it is still a bit slippery out there, Dick tells me. So he is doing it. He does not see much of Boots and I hope Boots misses my visits. But he is well fed and his litter box is kept clean. His folks will be home tomorrow.

Dick and I did go out to do some banking and to get gas. With our Pig points we paid $1.91 per gallon. What a deal but who a few years ago would have thought of that as a deal. At this point we are REALLY happy to get the discount.

I did a bit of sewing this afternoon to make good use of my time. I was surprised by a welcome encouraging call from Nora, my sister, because she heard about my food injury. Nice to know that people care. I talked to my Bret today too. His package to us arrived yesterday and both of the packages I sent him have arrived so we are all set on that end.

When I was a little girl, Mom and Dad would just keep presents at the Grandparents houses. They would also pick up the presents From the grandparents on Christmas Eve. They put up the tree and would have it decorated when we woke up in the morning too. Not at all like now when we do all that decorating shortly after Thanksgiving. As we kids got older we stayed up later and did help with the decorating and all. Dad would go to Midnight Mass. (Which was actually at midnight.) and on his way home pick everything up from the Grandparents. Then he would come home, have a TBone Steak for breakfast and he and Mother would arrange the presents in the living room. Eventually 9 little piles of presents for 9 children. What a joy. Probably not such a joy for them when their little people would be trying to get up at about 6AM to see what Santa brought.

Have a good Saturday. I am going to see the Clancy Legacy. Pray that the snow holds off as they say until after midnight.

Love

Mary

A rather eventful day considering that I am still stuck sitting with my foot up as much as possible.

Bobbie came over to take Dick to get his blood tested this morning. It just seemed that he needs a ride there as I usually drop him off at the door and then join him so he doesn't have to walk so far. She had a "free" day so was glad to come. Then they stopped at the store for a couple of things and lastly we had a nice visit. Chelsea was SOOOOOOO glad she came as she took Chelsea for a nice long walk. It will be a while before I can do that for her.

Bobbie said that she kind of needed a walk too and Chelsea is fun to walk in snowy weather. She rolls and eats snow and runs just like a young pup. It was doubly good for Chelsea because she has done a LOT of coughing since last night. No seizures but that poor body is just racked with those coughs. She is drinking an awful lot of water too. Not too encouraging.

After their walk, Bobbie and I had tea and cookies for a little treat. Chelsea was rather offended that we did not offer her any but as Bobbie pointed out, Chelsea had not offered to share any of HER treats either.

Only 5 more days until Christmas. I read the cutest story of a Christmas pageant. When the little guy Wise Man said his lines, he got a bit mixed up or perhaps he just said something that made sense to him. "We bring you gifts of Gold, Common Sense and Fur."

The rest of the day was spent resting and computering. Dick is taking good care of me. Tomorrow I can start putting a bit of weight on my toes of the right foot. Yea, before you know it all will be well again.

Hope you have a nice Friday. Mine will be quiet of course as I had to cancel my Blood Donation appointment which was going to involve a couple of other errands in Sheboygan. Now I am going to HAVE to do them after Christmas.

Oh Well. Life will go on even if I DO have to change my list around.

Love

Mary

A Government study found the average American walks 900 miles a year. Another study found Americans drink, on average, 22 gallons of beer a year. That means, on average, Americans get 41 miles to the gallon. Kind of makes you proud to be an American!

Just a day trying not to walk. My foot feels fine now but as Dick says, I have not stepped on it since yesterday and have iced it down four times so it should feel better.

My arms are getting tired from those blankety blank crutches. I don't think I would make a good disabled person.

Dick has been very good to me. He went grocery shopping all by himself this morning and has been preparing meals and cleaning up. I sure will be glad when I can get back to normal stuff. I like being waited on but not because it has to be. Chelsea is VERY confused.

Saturday I am supposed to be going to Milwaukee to the Irish Cultural and Historical Center to see The Clancy Legacy with Robbie O Connell, Donel Clancy and Aoife Clancy. Barring weather I have it figured out. John and Toni Nevicosi will drive and take me and Peg Payne and (if she comes) Kate Herman. Kate's husband thinks she should and that it would be good for her. I think so too but not if she would be worrying about Ron too much. Only she can decide. Anyway, barring weather, this wretched ankle will not stop me.

Less than a week until the big day. Jesus birthday. It is a wonder that we are the ones that get the presents. Maybe he is like me and likes seeing us open them up.

Have a good night

Mary

Today has not turned out at ALL like I planned.

This morning I tripped over Chelsea and my boots but seemed alright.

First, Dick had an appointment with Dr. Hodous to check and trim his callouses. The deepest one is shrinking some. That is really good news. We stopped at Mother's on the way home and I dropped off the Christmas gifts for my brothers and sisters and Mother. Then when we got home,I vacuumed downstairs in the den and sanitized the jug to rack the currant wine and put a casserole together and lots of other little things.

Everything was JUST fine. Then I sat down and shortly, my foot and ankle started hurting. It kept getting worse, but I figured I could walk it off when I got my hair cut at 2:30PM. It didn't work. By the time I got home, I couldn't put ANY weight on it at all. So. Dick drove me to Urgent care here in Plymouth. (He finally got to drive the car anyway. I have been suggesting that he should do that.) They took X rays and examined it and all. There is no break so I have my work cut out for me. For 48 hours I have to stay off of the foot and put ice on three times a day. I have crutches and after the 48 hours instructions on how to gradually get back to full use of the foot. We had an interesting time getting my blood pressure and I am not sure they ever did get a good one. Otherwise, I am really messed up. The first one was 240 over 100.

So I am home again. And really distressed. Poor Dick. He needs me to take care of him and now he is stuck with me. Well. We will have to take each day as it comes. He is going to do the shopping tomorrow.

So now you know the story of the great Christmas Ankle sprain.

Yesterday was fun. The bible study was lively and we will now disband until January 7. The Writer's Club party was indeed fun. We went to Antoinette's. We had lunch, exchanged presents and read to each other. It was a warm fuzzy. I like those.

Take care and pray for me.

Love

Mary

Well, It is the 18th. I usually unwind in the evenings by blogging, but last night I unwinded by going to bed.

It was a busy fulfilling day.

Bible Study, Writer's Club party and lunch and a Celtic Women telephone conference.



Just letting you know that I am still around and will flesh things out tonight.

Mary

A view after the snow from the deck looking out on the woods towards the park. Isn't it beautiful.

Love

Mary

The plows had the driveways and roads cleared in plenty of time for me to get to church at 8AM. After that first fiasco the snow plowing crew have been Right ON. With all the snow, I can't even begin to wonder what the condo snow plowing will amount to this year. Want to bet that our condo fees go up next year?

Chelsea is absolutely in hog heaven with all the snow. She is constantly asking to go out. I am sure that the water pills are contributing to the problem but the way she digs around and rolls around in the snow, I sometimes think that she is just taking me out to play. She is filthy. On Wednesday, she gets her bath. She will not be happy, but at least she will be presentable for Christmas.

Fr. Van Beeck is extremely proud that we, St. John The Baptist Church, are "featured" three times this advent season. Today John the Baptist asked Jesus if indeed he was the "One I have been waiting for." Kind of an interesting question. Who would have thought that John would have doubts at this time. He was in jail and was beheaded shortly thereafter. But as Fr. Van Beeck says it gives US hope when we lose a little hope sometimes.

When I got home, I baked the Stollen. I think I told you that I kind of mixed up which part got which amount of sugar, but it did not make TOO much difference. They are really good.

Bobbie and I worked for a couple of hours at Rhine. I brought some pear bread for everybody to snack on. They let us go home early because it was SO slow. We had only two or three rounds shot and half of the shooters were member. It was Bobbie's last day of working. She is dropping out as of January. I will miss our work times together. We really don't see each other that much otherwise. Probably will have to MAKE times to visit. I brought three bottles of bubbles for the kitties too. I sure miss my kitties. Especially when I am very tired and achy. My Oscar was such a comfort. I don't think I will ever have my babies back again. I don't care what anybody says. It has been over a year and I just don't have any hope anymore. I am so glad that Bobbie and Bill love them too. But I miss them SO much.


We racked the Lemon Balm Wine this afternoon after I got back from Rhine.

Now we are spending a quiet evening watching a Christmas Movie that I haven't seen before. It is a little vague but is pleasant enough. A nice way to spend an evening.

I called a number that I had for a cousin of mind, Diana Cool, Uncle Jim's daughter. She sounded so glad to hear from me and asked first about my Mother. So I know her memories are pleasant. We will, I hope talk again soon, and can catch her up on us and me up on her and hers.

Tomorrow is party day. Last Bible Study until after the New Year and the Cream City Writers party right after. I also have a conference call for CWI at 4PM. So it will be a full day. I have not heard from Kate so am assuming that things went reasonably well for Ron on Friday. It is well to keep on praying until we know all is well and then give thanks. Remember to pray for Bret's friend Travis too, the young man who was seriously injured in that motorcycle accident. The last I heard he is improving but his kidney (he lost one) had not started working as yet. Lets opt for Christmas miracles.

That's all. Have a pleasant week before Christmas. I hope you are almost all ready and that your time is special.

Love

Mary

Only 10 days until Christmas. We are all ready. It snowed all day again today. I don't remember a year with this much snow in December in years if ever. Chelsea loves it, of course. Snow really turns her on.

This morning I drove to Sheboygan Falls to see Mother. I mailed her Christmas cards for her on the way home. She is fine but has been housebound this past week because of the weather. I hope it is nice this week as she is supposed to have two Senior meal events, one of them a party and she likes that.

I fixed a turkey for dinner today. The Thanksgiving turkey tasted so good that it made me want more and especially made me hungry for leftovers. Boy, now I have plenty of them.

I mixed up a batch of Christmas Stollen today too. It has to sit in the fridge overnight and then tomorrow I need to roll it out, fill it and bake it. It keeps for a long time. I checked with Mother. She is making a batch today too.

With all the snow, the world is a white and silver wonderland. Quiet and peaceful under the cloudy gray sky. It is so beautiful now before the black exhaust leaves a film on everything and it becomes old and jaded.

We should enjoy the purity of it.

Have a nice Sunday. I am working at Rhine. Bet it will be a very quiet dull day.

Love

Mary

Such an early onset of winter makes us leery of then next five months. It has been many years since we have had this much snow and this much snow this early in December. It would be nice if the snow stayed around until after Christmas. (All that White Christmas stuff, you know.) But snow through March or even into April is hard to accept. Only time will tell, but it was 13 degrees this morning when Chelsea and I went out for our morning walk.

She has been a real pest today. I must have taken her out at least 8 maybe 10 times. We don't know what is happening. Is it old age? Is it the pills? Is it because she is a spoiled little puppy (Bitch is the word Dick uses. Not insulting- after all bitch is the proper term for a female dog.)

I cleaned the kitchen and mixed up a pie crust this morning. AND Dick and I finally got the Gewertziminer racked. So a lot was accomplished. I vacuumed the guest room and dusted in that room. Tomorrow I hope to get the den.

Today I was thinking of a dear friend, Twila Heinze. Isn't Twila a lovely name? It belonged to a lovely woman. Twila was married to a man named Ernie. They owned a auto repair place in Santa Ana. Ernie was severely injured in a jeeping accident and was unable to work any longer. They had several children and the business was survival for them. SO - Twila learned how to be a mechanic and to run the business and they did just fine. She was dynamic.

We belonged to the same jeep club. One year at our Christmas party she commented that children were funny little creatures and all raised differently. She said that one of the little people had been scooting by her on all fours and she had patted him on his little rear as he scooted by and her burst into tears. She and I were both used to a little love pat on the buns of our munchkins, just to let them know that we were there if we needed them. She also mentioned that her boys and grandchildren all had dark coarse hair. My boys and the Kirby boys and the Nordin boys all had blond hair. She said that blond kids smelled like puppies. Isn't that the cutest thing you ever heard.

Love

Mary

Today we stayed home the whole day.

I cleaned. Bathrooms, and stairs and the kitchenette downstairs.

I also think I have all of my Christmas cards sent off. If I forgot anybody. I am sorry. It seems so important to be in touch at this time of year. I guess it would be good if it continued all year round but at least Christmas makes us take stock of ourselves and our friendships again.

I got a call at about 6:30PM from Kate. Just a quick call. Ron made it through the surgery OK. They put two stints in the heart. There are two others that need care I guess. The nurse came in as she was talking to me so she had to go. Just keep praying that all continues to go well and that Ron is restored to health. This has been a long and scary road they have been traveling.

Since it is near Christmas I will again give you my Scripture Cake Recipe. I did not make it this year as I have too many other things and still want to bake some of Mom's Stollen Recipe that came from Grandma Deeley.

We should always let the scriptures be our guide. It even works when making Christmas goodies – at least it works when making this delicious cake. Read the scripture indicated to find the ingredients and make this interesting and informative cake for a special family home evening activity.

SCRIPTURE CAKE

1 Cup Judges 5:25 (Last Clause)

1 Cup Jeremiah 6:20 (From a far country)

5 of Jeremiah 17:11

2 TBLSP. 1 Samuel 14:25

1 Cup Judges 4:19 (Last Clause)

2 Cups Numbers 28:5

5 teasp. Amos 4:5

1 teasp. Leviticus 2:13

2 Cups 1 Samuel 30:12 (Second Item)

2 Cups Naham 3:12 (Chopped)

1 Cup Numbers 17:23 (Halved)

Season to taste with II Chronicles 9:9

Mix as quick breads or fruitcakes are mixed.

Follow Solomon's directions for making a good boy, Proverbs 23:14

Bake as a fruitcake at about 350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes. Makes two loaves

Love

Mary

When we wpoke up, the plows had neatly cleared our streets. So Chelsea and I tried a walk. We did OK but there was a lot of ice on the streets and big snow drifts on the sides of the road and blocking the paths to the park so we headed back after about 20 minutes.

This was shopping day. So we stopped at the bank then proceeded to the Family Restaurant for breakfast. I felt adventurous today and ordered pigs in a blanket. The brought out three huge pancakes wrapped around pork sausages. I wish they had pig in a blanket. Dick and I will eat a good breakfast tomorrow too.

Next was our weekly shopping trip. I think Dick was ready to disown me. He was VERY tired. So went to get some wine while I checked out. HOWEVER. I had a rain check for two dozen eggs at .99 each dozen. That would have been easy but the Pig ALSO was giving Pig Points for gas on eggs this week. That meant that they couldn't run the rain check through and give me credit for the Pig points without some real shenanigans. But we did it. This was a good week. I also bought a turkey because I got $8.00 off on it. I will cook it this weekend and divide the leftovers up into portions for the next couple of months. The only difficulty with not cooking Thanksgiving Dinner IS NO LEFTOVERS.

We went to ReMax this noon for the annual Christmas brunch that Bill puts on. It was excellent as usual and he had some really NICE gifts. A ceramic ornament, some note pads and a calendar. I like that.

Then I framed the presents that I have for my brothers and sisters and Denise this Christmas. I can't tell you what they are because some of them read this blog. It's a surprise. Tee! Hee! Only a couple of weeks until Christmas and I will bring George and Nora's to Texas.

We got started on the wine today but will be spending the next week racking and filtering. Hope we have some more ready for Christmas. We probably have enough anyway but it is nice to have the variety to share.

I remember when the kids were very young. Bret was about three or four and his very best friend was Chip Nusser who lived next door and Joyce, Chip's mother was my best friend. We went out tree shopping. The trouble is that you get two short mom's who are really kind of hyped up about Christmas and send them into a tree lot and things get out of hand. We decided that the tree should be about as tall as we were. The only problem with that is that as we were measuring, our hands kind of started pointing up. Until we got home, we did not realize that the 5 or 5 1/2 foot trees had "grown" t0 about 7 feet and both trees were too tall for our living rooms. Dick and Dan had to cut a couple of feet off the bottoms of them so they would fit. They were beautiful trees though. Good thing I had a pickup.

Have a nice Thursday. Get in the spirit.

Love

Mary

Woke up this morning to a steady snowfall of nice fluffy flakes that kept falling until almost 3PM. Chelsea loved it. We actually had a very nice walk. It was not windy and I wore my non slippy boots so we sent around the park and came through the park back to Tallgrass. She was delighted and bounded in like a young pup. Of course that didn't last too long. She is totally exhausted now.
We did not leave the tract all day. I watered plants and baked Lizzies and changed some arrangements for the Cream City Writer's party that will occur on Monday. We are going to Antoinette's instead of Hub City. Hub City is SO smoky that I think we would be uncomfortable. Between Bev and I we have contacted all the writers.

Today when I was talking to Kate, she somehow connected to the fact that my boys are named Bret and Bart. She laughed and asked how that happened. So I told her it was from Maverick, the series on TV back then. She had assumed it was from the Green Bay Packers two most favorite quarterbacks, Bart Starr and Bret Favre. I remember that Sara and Nora thought that it was pretty neat that their uncles were named Bret and Bart. Actually my Bret is a couple years older than Brett Favre so who named who after whom.

Tomorrow we shop and go to the ReMax Open House. That is always nice and Dick likes it because they have raw beef sandwiches. We also need to get back to racking wine again. The Gewertziminer is ready to rack.

Have a good day. I hope the roads are good tomorrow.

Love
Mary

It was a very cold day today and cloudy and gloomy too. The day was not cloudy and gloomy though.

Dick and I had to be at Aurora in Plymouth for his last Diabetes Class at 8:30AM. This class covered vitamins and minerals and herbals and reviewed the previous 6 classes for us. We have been really pleased with the lessons. And so far, Dick is keeping his sugars within the parameters just with diet.

Then we trudged down the hall to Dr. Sharon's office. He wanted to see how the sores on Dick's legs are doing. I showed him the kind of weepy area on Dick's right foot and Dr Sharon took a swab to test it. We will hear if there is an infection in a day or two. I hope not. We have been working VERY hard to avoid that.

Then I dropped some things off at Kate's and went to the Pig to pick up Jenna from the Cream City Writers to go to City Streets in Sheboygan for the Sheboygan County Writer's Club Christmas party. That went quite well. We ate, then everybody got a door prize, then we exchanged gifts and then finally those who had submitted read their selection from the book that John Textor, our co president, put together. The second COLLECTION OF WORDS, WIT AND WISDOM Volume 2. It is a nice book and I purchased several for gifts.

I got home at about 3:30 after picking up Chelsea's meds from the Kettle Moraine Veterinary Clinic. We had soup and grilled cheese for supper. Now the day is done and we can wind down. Good thing. I am really tired.

Look into the eyes
Of those who hold out their hands
And you have to love.

Tomorrow we get to stay home all day. If there is no sleet, I will go to Church in the evening for the Evening with the Pastor. The bible study.

Take care. I am going to bake Lizzies tomorrow.

Love

Mary

Another full day. I am almost glad that the weekend if over.

Had to be up by 6 because I went to the 8AM Mass. Sure glad I didn't have to miss another one. Fr. Van Beeck pointed out something interesting. This was the gospel of Matthew referring to John the Baptist living out in the desert wearing camel fur and eating honey covered locusts. John said that the "Kingdom of God is at hand." He did not mean that it was coming soon, which we usually assume but that it is there for the taking. Pretty interesting.

When I got home, I fixed breakfast and then went out to Rhine. We started early today because there was some sort of meet which started at about 10AM. It was not too busy. Sara Behr had made chicken soup for people to eat on as we were open over the lunch time. We also served ham sandwiches and coffee. I left between two and three to come home. I brought some of the soup home for us to lunch on during the week. Sara DOES make a great chicken soup.

I called Kate Herman, my friend, tonight. She is not going to be able to to to Sheboygan Writer's tomorrow as Ron needs her there. I had offered to go to St. Luke's with her and Ron on Thursday when he will be able to undergo surgery, but it looks like their son will be able to go now. That will be much better for Kate, but I told her to remember that I will stay available in case she needs me. Please pray hard for Ron. He is a very sick person and needs us.

Tomorrow morning, Dick and I will be going to diabetes class again. I am not sure what we are covering this time. Then he sees Dr. Sharon. We need to be sure that his legs are not infected. I am sure they are not but am worried about one "hot spot" on his right foot.

What a game the Packers had today. They won handily. It seemed that every time I turned away from the screen, they would do something else spectacular. It was worth my having to see them on the replays.

Guess that should be all for today. I called Bart today and had a nice telephone visit with him. It will be good to see him and Barb in Dallas.

Take care now and have a good week

Mary

Talk about cold. It was 5Degrees when I got up this morning. Chelsea and I went for a nice walk but not too long. It was very quiet out there.

At 10AM, we attended the annual budget meeting Christmas Gathering for the Tallgrass Condo association. It was an exciting meeting but I understand, NOT as exciting as the Spring meeting. The budget passed quite easily, then the discussion turned to questions about maintenance and snow removal. I think our board officers handled it quite well. It was pointed out the concerns should be addressed to the board, preferably in writing and that all residents are welcome to attend board meetings. Michelle brought up the fact that there is a limit of one animal per unit and it was noted that it would take a revision of the bylaws to change this. Someone stupidly said that exceptions could be filed for and I jumped in with a resounding "NO." That has been tried and the board is a heartless group of people. I miss my kitties more near Christmas. Isn't that funny? I suppose it is because it is a more emotional time of year. But it is hard for me to get to sleep and I do miss my Oscar. He was very comforting.

This afternoon, I finished wrapping Dick's presents. I hope he likes them. I also wrote several Christmas Cards out. Soon that will be done too.

My brother George called this afternoon. He is such a pleasure to talk to. I was so happy to be able to tell him that I FINALLY framed the print that he and Betsy gave me to remember Courtney by. It framed up beautifully and looks great above our fireplace. For some reason it reminded me of a quote from Little House on the Prairie that Michael Landon wrote. "Remember me with smiles and laughter, For that's the way I will remember you all. If you can only remember me with tears, Then don't remember me at all."

I hope to be remembered that way. Wonder if I will be remembered?

Love

Mary

There was about an inch of snow on the ground and the roadways when I woke up this morning. Actually it was after 6:30AM so I couldn't complain about the time at all. I strapped on my traction boots and Chelsea and I had our first decent, not the best, but decent walk in three days. Boy was she glad. When we got back home she BURST through the door to let Dick know what a good time she had. She is so cute.

Then Dick and I went to the Point in Falls for breakfast. They are now a non smoking place so it is really quite enjoyable. I do like their breakfast sandwiches. They offer them on either hard rolls or English Muffin Bread. Then we went to the bank and paid a bill and came home.

I cleaned the kitchen but with all the snow and more still coming I only swept the floor instead of scrubbing it. Next week will be soon enough.

I joined the gals for lunch at Dairy Queen. Marlene said that she took over for me as Eucharistic minister on Sunday. I told her it was a good thing as I was snowbound.

Then tonight, Dick spoiled me even further. He took me out to Antoinette's for a fish fry. So I ate all three meals out. Boy was Chelsea disappointed in us. Not even one skimpy little plate to beg for.

I finished wrapping all the presents today and they are neatly stacked under the tree which looks beautiful. I love Christmas.

Tonight I did a good hunk of my Christmas cards, both email and snail mail. I figure I am about 1/2 done.

I called my friend Kate. Ron has to go to St. Luke's on Thursday for surgery. Please pray for him. He has to wait til then because he has to stop taking blood thinners before they operate. I told Kate that I would go with her. That is a long scary way to go without a friend.

Tomorrow, we will go to the Condo Budget Meeting. That will be exciting since everybody is all up in arms about the snow plow situation. I am actually content with the second and third snows so hope it is not a nasty time.

Sunday I work at Rhine so the weekend is busy. Sure glad that I have leftovers to prepare for meals. It will be SO much easier.

Hope your weekend is wonderful too. Have a happy season and wish everybody Merry Christmas.

Mary

"Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will ever read!"

I asked the Lord to bless you as I prayed for you today.
To guide you and protect you as you go along your way....
His love is always with you, His promises are true,
And when we give Him all our cares,
You know He will see us through.

As you can see, we did pick up the car today. The coldest day of the winter so far. It was a big 2 degrees when I got up this morning. Chelsea and I did not go for much of a walk because it was WAY too cold.

We went to Mike Burkart Ford at 9ish and went through the paperwork and the rundown of the features of the new car. Then we drove out to Sheboygan Falls to drop some money off at Mother's and to give me a chance to get used to driving it. It is really nice. Mother liked it. Did I tell you that it has a running board so that it will be easier for Dick AND Mother to get in and out of the vehicle.

When we got home it was a stay at home day. I did a bit of cleaning and computer work and fixed a Mexican Chicken Casserole for supper. We both took a nap this afternoon because we were tired after our late night last night.

It has started snowing out there again this evening. I don't think there will be too much accumulation. I am hoping that perhaps Chelsea and I can have a normal walk in the morning. I am getting restless and I am sure that she is. You will be glad to hear that she has not had a seizure for over three weeks now.

I talked to Bret tonight. He is doing just fine. Travis, his friend's son, who was in the motorcycle accident is still improving. He is starting to communicate and is gaining strength every day. That is good news.

He was telling me that they are really "cold" there. It is 51 degrees. I said AWWW. Then he mentioned a day that he spent outside with a friend at a rodeo in temps of 24 degrees with a windchill of mid teens. I agreed with him that THAT is cold. He said he never was that cold before. So I told him that he was, at least once. When he was little, one year we, his Dad, his brother and I and Bret, came back to Wisconsin for Christmas. Nora picked us up at Mitchell and when we stepped out into temperatures of below Zero, I thought that my two California babies were going to freeze in place. We rushed them into the car and warmed it up as soon as we could. That was a fun trip. It was a surprise for Mother and Dad. All the aunts and uncles knew we were coming but not Mom and Dad. That was a fun Christmas, despite the cold.

Love

Mary

Here it is. Not the best picture but I couldn't wait for a warm day to get one outside.

So Far we like it. Easy to drive and nice bells and whistles.

Mary

It is cold and getting colder. We had a light layer of about an inch or so of snow on the ground and roads when I woke up this morning. I strapped on my shoes with the grids and we bravely made our way for her walk. She was quite efficient and it was cold enough that she did not dawdle.

Dick and I went out for breakfast and then did our grocery shopping. We were home by about 9:30. They had plowed, even up our road. It was a bit patchy so I did scrape off the driveway a bit as the last thing I want is an icy path when I go out with the girl. They did come back and cleaned up some but I am still glad that I did some scraping.

The rest of the day we basically waited for the Ford dealer to call to set up the appointment to pick up our new Explorer. I, of course, cleaned and worked on the computer while I was waiting. Finally, I called them at 3:30 and got our answer. We will be picking it up in the morning. I will describe it to you then and throw in a picture.

I picked up Market Day at 4 and then we got all dressed up and went to get Mother for the play and dinner. We went to dinner at Nino's. A very good dinner. Dick had a steak and Mother and I each had a shrimp platter. There were sixteen shrimp: 4 fried, 4 bacon wrapped, four scampi and four garlic. They were ALL good and I have half of them for lunch tomorrow.

The play was wonderful. Michael Eberhardy was indeed Kris Kringle. It was well acted, well staged and totally enjoyable. As we were leaving, Michael was sitting in a Santa Chair to greet the children and when he saw Mother he stood up and grinned from ear to ear and gave her a great big hug.

A lovely evening.

Lets all pray for the victims of that shooting in Omaha and for the soul of the shooter.

Love

Mary

Chelsea woke me up a bit early this morning and Dick was sound asleep. That was unusual but I always figure that if he is sleeping that is a minor miracle in itself and I am not about to wake him. So, since I had really slept very well, I just got up and took the girl out for her morning walk. It was cold but not windy. We only walked for about 20 to 30 minutes and stayed rather close to home because it was slippery. I have put the grids that Dick bought for me last year on my boots and they are really GREAT on ice. After falling twice on the ice that first day, I am not taking any chances. Might not be so lucky the third time.

I watered the plants and got packages ready for mailing this morning. Then after lunch, I took the packages to the post office, stopped at the bank and Walgreens for Mom's prescriptions. Then home for the rest of the day and night.

We had chicken and stuffing for supper again. Still good. I also made some cheese. I got a free gallon of milk last week and we don't drink that much milk. So. I got whole milk instead of 1% and made some Monterey Jack Cheese out of it today. I like playing around with that kind of stuff.

Tomorrow we are supposed to get our new car. We are also going to the Sheboygan Theater Co's presentation of Miracle on 34th Street with Mother. We have decided to go to Nino's for our dinner. Dick was hungry for a steak the other day so this will be his chance to take advantage of a Steak house.

My friend Janet sent me George Carlin's rules for 2008: I liked this one.

New Rule: Stop saying that teenage boys who have sex with their hot, blonde teachers are permanently damaged . I have a better description for these kids: 'Lucky bastards.'


Enjoy your Wednesday.

Love

Mary

Chelsea woke me up at the ungodly hour of 5:40AM. I took her outside long enough to do what was necessary, gave her some lettuce and went back to bed. I shut the door (A trick we have learned.) and the next thing I knew it was 7:00AM and I was raring to go. It was even light out. We had a reasonable walk but I would not let her go into the park as I draw the line at climbing over snow drifts just for a walk.

Bible study this morning. We had some very interesting pre-discussions today. Tom Keyes had watched 60 Minutes last night and informed us that according to the show, there is no longer a Christian/Catholic church recognized in Iraq. It has, according to his interpretation, become an offense punishable by death to be Christian/Catholic. If this is so, and I must do some investigating, I need to contact Mr. Bush and our representatives and find out why we are sending our young men to this country to die. We are a Christian country who accommodates other religious beliefs. We should not be supporting governments that are persecuting people for whatever their religious beliefs.

Then Peggy Feider, one of our participants, told us of an experience that she and her husband had in Florida. Their daughter lives in "the slums" (her terms). She sent them for Sunday Mass to a church just a block or so away from her apartment. Imagine their surprise when they arrived and found that they were the only white faces in the congregation. Peggy herself is a lovely blond lady. Well, they took a deep breath, walked in and took their place. Shortly, one of the ushers came and greeted them and asked if they would bring the gifts up to the altar at the Offeratory. They accepted. Then at the end of the Mass, the pastor asked if there were any visitors. (Well, DUH!) So they stood up and were greeted with a polite round of applause.

Then we got to the readings. Would you believe that they related to the two above experiences. The first was Isaiah 11:1-10 which talks of lions lying down with lambs and that God does not judge by appearance OR hearsay. Then the Gospel was from Matthew - the story of John the Baptist and we certainly could not have judged HIM by appearance, what with his running around the dessert in camel hair coats and eating honey and locusts. We decided that maybe they taste better covered in honey and would at least be crunchy.

Anyway, we need to pray for tolerance and that means that EVERYBODY may have to develop a thicker skin. Most of the time people, in my experience, don't set out to insult or disparage others. Perhaps a little understanding and patience.

This afternoon, I had my annual mammogram. Will hear in about a week but everything seemed fine on the initial exam.

Tonight was the Rhine Plymouth meeting. The lot wasn't plowed. That turned out to be quite an experience as some of the members were getting stuck. But it all worked out and Crunch had a plow on his truck and got most of it pretty well cleared. The meeting went quite well, even with both the president and vice president were both gone. Guess what, Bobbie let the meeting. Secretaries are next in line.

Now we are home and safe in our nice warm little house. Tomorrow is a stay at home day.

Hope your day is pleasant and safe too.

Love

Mary

We were snowbound, literally until mid afternoon. We were very unhappy with the snow plowing service that we received. What good is our condo fee if we are trapped until after 1:30PM after a snow that ends during the night. Disgusting. I called our illustrious president as was told that they were "working on it."

We had lent Jim and Michelle the Santa Fe YESTERDAY, because they were bringing some file cabinets etc home from her office. So I was driving the Elantra. When I came home from the Tea at the History Museum, I had a heck of a time getting it into the garage. This morning, when we woke up they had plowed the main part of Tall Grass but NOT our little side road. As a matter of fact, they left us with a Huge drift blocking the entrance to the side road to add to the deep snow that had accumulated. Really maddening. I figured I would skip the 8AM Mass and go to the 10:30 but there was no sign of life ALL morning. I called finally but it was after 1PM before they started on our street. Jim and Michelle came home in the midst of this and did some hand shoveling. They noticed that all the OTHER streets and driveways were done.

Anyway, I was unable to go to Mass and I DON'T like that at all.

I spent a lot of time today, going through all the papers from the purchase of this place and from the sale of Hunter's Glen. I shredded a whole bag of stuff.

We had stuffed roasted chicken for supper tonight and a buckeye for dessert. We are a lucky little family.

The upcoming week is moderately busy. The most exciting thing is that we will go to see Miracle on 34th Street at Sheboygan Theatre with Mother on Wednesday. That will be fun. Michael Eberhardy who went to school with my brother Matt, is Kris Kringel.

Have a good week yourself.

Love

Mary

Well, we have now had our first winter storm of the season. It started at about 12:30 with a light snow that continued and got worse as the afternoon wore on.

I fell twice. Ice is hidden under the snow and I managed to find two patches. I did not hurt myself fortunately. I have this fear of breaking something. Then we would really be in trouble at this house. So, I have to be extra careful. I found some things that Dick got for me last year that are supposed to clamp on boots and provide traction on ice. I will put them on tonight and use them in the morning. I sure hope they work.

The Christmas Tea was indeed wonderful but the attendance was way down because of the storm. We went back and forth about calling it off and ultimately decided to go ahead. There were only about 16 stalwart souls there. Jim Wilsing put on a wonderful show and spent quality time describing the tin whistles and flutes that he brought with him. He played my whistles and said that they are not bad for inexpensive ones. He said that they make good "pub "whistles. Of course, If I ever get serious about learning to play, I will get a better one.

The brown bread and soda bread went over big.

I was glad to get home though.

I am planning on getting the out of state packages done tomorrow and mailed on Monday or Tuesday. That is always the "deadline" thing. Everything else can really wait. Did I tell you that Bart and Barb's Christmas Card. It is a picture of them. They look just wonderful. Barb has lost a lot of weight and looks great. Bart looks happy. That makes me happy.

Hope I can get out to church tomorrow morning.

Love

Mary

Another cold day. We woke up to 19 degrees AND snow on the ground. Chelsea and I had a comparatively good walk, though we did not go TOO far because I was nervous. With the light covering of snow and the extreme cold, I could not see the patches of ice which made it quite dangerous.

When we got back, Dick was back in bed, so I had breakfast and then cleaned the kitchen. Boy was that floor dirty. I took my shower too and never woke Dick up so he really needed the sleep.

After he got up, we went over to Brantmeier Ford and bought an Explorer. We won't get it til next week but we have it all ordered and Dick is pleased with the purchase. I am too. The Explorer is a bit bigger than the Santa Fe and therefore rides smoother. It also is not as gas efficient but we do not drive as much as we used to either, so it will all even out for us.

I had lunch with the girls at Dairy Queen and then stopped at KMart to buy a jacket. With a 50% sale and a $5 certificate I did OK. When I got home, I rested a bit then baked some Irish Soda Bread and straightened out and put away as much clutter as I could. By next week I should have the boxes ready to mail and all the other packages wrapped and under the tree.

We are supposed to be getting a big storm tomorrow. I MAY cause us to have to postpone the Christmas Tea Music Program. Beth and I will decide in the morning. I hope everything holds out til 5PM.

That is all. Dick was happy, we had Kraft Mac and Cheese with smoked sausage cut up in it for supper.

Love

Mary

When I got up this morning at 6:30AM it was 15 degrees outside AND there was ice all over the road. Needless to say, Chelsea and I did not go far. I can take the cold but will not go far on ice. As I "explained" to Chelsea, if I break something we are in real trouble in this house.

SO, I cleaned the bathrooms and took my shower so I could get to Mother's by 10AM. She had an appointment with Dr. Nytes to have her hearing aids checked. Then she and I drove out to Gibbsville to get Christmas cheese boxes. I picked up some curds and baby Swiss for us too.

We went to Firehouse Pizza for lunch and then home.

I had plenty of time to get my picks for the football league in and spent some time on Christmas. I dipped th buckeyes and put lights on the front porch. I am quite proud of myself. I actually have the lights coming on at dusk, now if they go off at dawn, I will really be pleased.

Now I am watching the game. I picked the Packers. I really had to, but so far it does not look too good. We did allright on our first possession with a field goal. Since then the Cowboys answered with TWO field goals and have now intercepted and gotten a touchdown. OW!!!

I am so tired, that I may not be able to stay up for the whole game, I think I will put a radio in there and try to get the game as our bedroom TV died. Usually I am glad of the quiet but don't like to miss the game, even if it is only bits and pieces of it. We got our Christmas card from Bart and Barb. I am SO delighted. It is a picture of the two of them and they both look great. I will call Barb tomorrow to let her know how much I love it.

Tomorrow we are going out car shopping. I am also going to look for a new winter jacket.

Another busy day. Take care.

Love

Mary

I finished the Christmas Tree today. It is beautiful. Of course, I have never yet seen one that was not.

Mother tells a story about an ugly tree.

This happened years ago, when my Uncle Roman and Aunt MaryAnn lived in Sheboygan Falls, after the war and before Uncle Roman went back into the Air Force. Aunt Maryann did all the shopping, all the decorating and all the baking for Chistmas, except for the Christmas tree. She told Uncle Roman that he was going to do it that year and he agreed.

Well, the night before Christmas (trees were often and usually decorated the night before Christmas back then) Uncle Roman was out a bit late and perhaps imbibed a bit to much with his friends. Aunt MaryAnn was not bothered at all, at least outwardly. When he got home, the tree was still waiting. Aunt MaryAnn went to bed and Roman was left to it. He decorated all right. Mother said that it was the most gawd-awful mess you ever saw. But MaryAnn did not change an ornament. It was what it was and Christmas came any way. She is the most serene person I know. (Mother said that she couldn't have left it that way but MaryAnn did.)

We shopped this morning. Then I mixed up and rolled buckeyes. Tomorrow they will be dipped. That sounds kind of weird doesn't it. But that is what will happen. They will be dipped.

I hope to send the out of state packages early next week. Tomorrow Mother and I will go to Gibbsville to order the cheese boxes.

We had snow today. None is left on the ground but it came down for a couple of hours.

Barb called tonight. She had something to share with me. I am so happy to have her as a daughter in law.

Hope all is well everywhere. We are fine today.

Later

Mary

A cold and WINDY day. Chelsea and I walked very fast this morning to keep ahead of the cold.

Dick and I had to be in Sheboygan for his blood test at the anti coagulation clinic at 8:45AM. He is within the parameters again so we are very pleased. Do you know that we do not have to see a doctor until the week after next? We are SO delighted by that.

We got the car washed and then stopped at Walgreens to pick up bandaging supplies and items for the Advent Calendar wall hanging. We have to be ready to start that on Sunday. Would you believe that? Time is just flying.

I am watching the finale of Dancing with the Stars so will keep this short. I really do like that show. In case you don't know. Marie has been eliminated and it is down to the Spice Girl, Mel B and the race car driver, Helio.

I am going to put another poem of mine in for you. I did this recently from a memory. Some of you will relate. For others it is a world that existed when I was a child.

Our Kitchen

by Mary J. Kunert

The fire in the old coal furnace
In the old farm house
Barely lasted until dawn,
Winter being what it is.
Poor Mother had to get up in the cold
And trek down to the basement
To throw more coal on the ashes.
Then she shut the doors to the kitchen
And lit the oven.
We, her munchkins, woke one by one,
Left the cozy caves of our quilt topped beds
And stumbled down the stairs
To the warm cocoon that she had prepared.
We huddled, all of us, in that place
Eating our breakfast and drinking hot chocolate
Until the newly stoked fire sent its fingers of warmth
Through the house and we could again

Venture forth.

Enjoy your Wednesday. We are shopping.

Love

Mary

Except for the market, this has been an up day, all the way.

We started out with an exhilarating walk for Chelsea and I at 6:30AM. It was only 32 degrees but again - no wind. What more can one ask for.

Our first major "event" was the trip to see Dr. Siddique. He confirmed that the artery work was exactly what he had hoped for. After some prodding we got the reaffirmation that he does need vein work to completed the repairs. He is booked through January so we are scheduled for up to eight procedures to correct that. The first is for February 15. These require only and hour and he can go home right afterwards. So we are encouraged that they will not be as hard on him. When these are done, we believe that the wounds on his legs and feet will be able to totally heal. Pray that it is so.

This afternoon, I went shopping at Hobby Lobby and a couple of other Mall stops with Kate Herman. We got the frames that I have been needing for a "surprise" for my brothers and sisters and to frame properly the Courtney print. I also got a battery for the Connemara marble watch that Dick got for me a couple of Christmases ago.

Finally I picked up Chelsea's refill of her furosimide. She is set for a while now. Poor little girl. Today I visited out front with the neighbor across the street. She lost a grandson last week and I swear that Chelsea knew that she needed some comfort. Chelsea is not exactly cuddly but she very willingly let her pet her. I think she knew she could help.

Tonight I put ONE box of ornaments on the tree. Two more to go. I also found places for two of the Nativities.

I don't think I shared this poem with you. If I did you will just have to read it again. As we are getting into the Christmas season, I remembered writing it early this year.

Tomorrow Dick gets a blood test, but the rest of the day is free.

Here is the poem. I hope you enjoy it.

Love Mary

BOY CHILD

Did He spin in circles
His arms outstretched
His face towards the sky
A smile on his lips
Calling
Mama, Mama
Look at Me?

Did He bring home a puppy
A kitten or a toad
And say in a breathless voice
A smile on His lips
Begging
Mama, Mama
Can I keep him?

Did she tuck Him in
Kiss His cheek
Inhale the sweet moist smell
Of the Boy Child's hair
Whispering
Jesus, Jesus
I love you?

Sunday is almost over. It was quite nice and quite relaxing. I took Chelsea for her walk at 6:3o and then went to the 8AM Mass.

When I got home, I warmed up the leftover egg strata for our Sunday breakfast. I will hang onto that recipe.

I spent the day making another batch of fudge, wrapping presents and going to the History Museum to pick up three items that I got on silent auction. One of them was a wreath that is now hanging on our front door for the holidays.

I talked to Nora this afternoon to find out a few things I needed to know for the wedding. I have now decided what I will wear and what I will bring for a present for Bing and Stenn. We are all so happy for Stenn. Bing is just lovely and we are eager to have her part of our family.

Tomorrow night is the finale of Dancing with the Stars. I really do enjoy that show. I can't figure out who I feel should be awarded the prize this year. The three finalists especially the Spice Girl and the Race Driver are REALLY good and Marie isn't half bad either. Will have to wait til Tuesday to find out the results.

I was reminded of how bad my ex husband was at dancing. He was just not good at all. One night at a party, his Aunt June decided that he should learn to dance and she took him into another room where she could work with him. Before she gave up he managed to trip her and they fell into a fireplace, fortunately unlit, and she ended up with a black eye. She gave up.

All my love

Mary

Bart and Barb will be picking me up at the airport in Dallas so I have an added bonus to this trip. I hope that Timothy will join us. Nora specifically mentioned that if he will, we would want him to attend either/or both, the rehearsal dinner and the wedding and reception. I hope he will.

I also talked to Barb this afternoon and relayed that information to her.

That pork we had last night was just as good tonight with potatoes and gravy.

We have been enjoying Christmas music since 4PM. First the Celtic Women Christmas, then Angel Voices, a boy's choir and now the three tenors. This time of year does spoil us.

I liked this day.

Chelsea and I started on our walk at about 6:20AM. It was cold - 27 degrees - but still so we enjoyed the walk. She acts like a young pup these nice cool crisp mornings.

Then I fixed a little breakfast for us and Dick went down for a nap with Chelsea. I worked at the desk and cleaned up the kitchen a bit and painted a tile for a trivet.

Then I decided to do a bit of Christmas shopping and take Mother the money that I had picked up for her. It was especially important because I will not be able to go for our usual Monday visit because Dick is seeing Dr. Siddique in the morning and I will not be able to go to Bible Study. We had a nice visit and I made it home in time to fix lunch. Then I rested a bit. But I could not sleep so I made my first batch of fudge.

I called Kate this afternoon. She had mentioned that she wanted to go to Hobby Lobby and I need to go too. We have pretty well determined that we will go on Monday afternoon. I need frames for several things and they are the most reasonable and usually have some sort of a sale. I hope I am planning right this time too.

Anyway, Kate and her friend Freddie, who is a neighbor of ours, were going to downtown Plymouth to tour the History Museum and the Episcopal Church for their second day of festivities. I think the turnout today was really rather poor. But there was little else going on but these two events and I many of the other stores were already closed at 4 this this started.

I had bid on three items in the silent auction at the History Museum and the bidding being so low, I have received three of them. So I need to pick them up tomorrow after 10AM. I was rather selective and am not unhappy BUT did feel that I SHOULD have been outbid.

Anyway, we three gals had a great time. The tour of the Episcopal Church was really good. It is an old faith community and this building was rebuilt after a fire. but they have hung on to the wonderful ambiance and the artifacts that make it special. I was pleased that I was asked along.

Dick and I had a plank pork roast, Spanish Rice and steamed broccoli for dinner. It was a Market Day pork and was just wonderful. I have not been disappointed with any of their meats.

I was sent the following at least twice but perhaps some of you have not seen it. I reinforces my feelings about "illegal" vs. legal immigrants and English being our official language. See what you think.


"In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."


Theodore Roosevelt 1907


Love

Mary

We extended the Kunert Thanksgiving for a bit longer this morning by all sharing a breakfast. We had Egg Strata, fruit, juice, various breads and coffee. Chelsea loved it but was very tired when everyone left.

The kids all left at about 10 to go to see their mother. She is still home after her long illness and the reports are that she is doing quite well. It was so good that they all could go at once. There is such healing in numbers.

Dick and I spent a nice quiet Friday. Nothing too exciting, just general puttering around, general picking up and resting. I called Chelsea's doctor to report her condition. She is still coughing often, but I don't believe as much, and has not had a seizure in almost two weeks. We are encouraged.

Tonight, I went to downtown Plymouth for their big holiday parade. We left at about 5:15 so we could get good parking and enjoy some of the other festivities before the parade started at 7:00. They had a chili cook off as part of the event. Five stores prepared their chilies for the cook off. We managed to get to all five, The Sewing Basket, Hub City Interiors, Book Heads, The Exchange Bank and Cains Floral Wreath. We decided that Cains WAS the best. Three of the others had pasta in them and the other, though really good had a sweet undertone that I did not feel was really good for chili.

The parade was really good. There were floats and horses and dogs and even llamas. Lots of Plymouth businesses and community service agencies were represented. Jim and Michelle are planning on having the Red Cross represented next year. They are all qualified and very active in the Red Cross now. Anyway, we had a good time and I am so glad that they asked me to go with them. I would not have gone alone.

It was 17 degrees this morning when I took Miss Chelsea out. But again, there was no wind so it was not too bad. I am reminded of that saying that find so touching. "God be good to anyone, who's sleeping out tonight. Tuck them in and keep them warm and don't put out the light."

We need to do what we can to help the homeless of out world. Especially the children.

Love

Mary

I probably don't really have to do this today as a good chunk of the people who read the blog are HERE.

It was a lovely day and very long. I got up at 4:45AM in order to get to the hunting site on time. It had snowed a good portion of the night and we had our first accumulation of snow for the season. The roads were very slippery, especially at the intersections so it took much longer for me to get out there. Jeff and Shane called while I was traveling to let me know that THEY were running a bit behind too. We saw a lot of tracks out there but nary a deer. I didn't even get my squirrel visit. We came out at about 11:00am. Shane says he saw cat tracks out there. He meant CAT tracks not domestic. He never saw the cat but it's path looked like it was following a deer trail.

Anyway, I got home and fixed lunch, took a shower and put together a overnight egg casserole for breakfast tomorrow. Then I took a short nap before Bobbie and Bill came. Bobbie is using one of my stencils to quilt the border of a quilt she has almost completed.

Next over to Jim and Michelle's next door for a Delicious dinner. We all stuffed ourselves on a great turkey, stuffing, yams, mashed potatoes, broccoli, and more. She made a pumpkin pie and a pumpkin cream cheese pie for dessert.

We all then came over here and Jim and Dick put up our Christmas tree for us. Dick was worried about getting it upstairs and put together. Now I just have to decorate.

WOW. Quite a day. So much to be thankful for today. We are all healthy. Dick is doing pretty well. We will know for sure on Monday when we see Dr. Siddique of course, but things are good today.

Barb called and we got an ecard from Leslie So life is good.

Take care and be good to yourself.

Love

Mary

Well, I slipped off to bed without posting last night. It is now 5:15AM and I am getting my brain together for this morning's deer hunting experience. It is NOT snowing and the prediction is flurries only. So we will be out there. I understand that the whole party will be there.

Yesterday was nice. We shopped in the morning. Then I did kitchen stuff, (got the stuff chopped for a breakfast casserole - to assemble today, make cranberry sauce to have on hand and prepared a batch of venison bratwurst.) I also vacuumed the office for all the good that does. We really have a cleaning puzzle there.

Talked to Bret. I had called him the night before to find out how Travis, the young man who was in the motorcycle accident, is doing. He is hanging in there. He is still critical so keep praying, but there are many signs of improvement.

Talked to Bart too. I have been calling him once a week while Barb is in Florida. He is a bit agitated but is under a bit of pressure. We had a good talk so I feel OK with him too. Paryers for him would be good too.

I promise to write this evening.

Love
Mary

The muskrat is right in the center next to the big rock.

Enjoy. They have such a lovely place by the water.

Mary

Chelsea and I had the best walk this morning. First she tried to get me up at 5:30AM. I let her piddle and then went back to bed until 6AM. We had to get up then because Dick had an appointment with Dr. Hodous at 9:15AM. So, we started out at 6 and did a nice LONG walk through Tallgrass and then around Lions Park and ended up taking the path through the woods to the condo. We only ran into one other person walking this morning. Boy did they miss out.

Dr. Hodous was pleased with the feet. He says the infection seems to be gone and the callouses are not getting worse. We are all waiting for the time when the veins can be treated and there may be some healing.

Then we stopped at BJ's Shooter Supplies to have him look at my 22. I took the grips off when cleaning it and couldn't get it working properly. He took it apart, made a few adjustments, put it back together and it is just fine now. Whew.

On the way home we stopped and got gas and then I dropped 2 dozen cookies off at the Plymouth History Museum for an event that they are holding on Friday. They had called and asked. I like being asked for something like that. I love to cook and can do it at home. If you want cookies, come on down. I made plain old TollHouse Chocolate Chip Cookies. Can't beat them.

Home again. I spent the afternoon, vacuuming the living room, watering plants, getting my grocery list and the stuff ready for Thursday's hunting trip to the Kettles.

Had a few phone calls and emails to catch up on too.

Now I am settling down. Tonight I like TV. I watch Bones and the finale of Dancing With the Stars.

Every month, the Cream City Writers adjourns with each attendee giving a word. Then we try to use as many of those words in a poem to bring back the following month. August was kind of fun. The words were: muskrat, fall, slumber, bare woods, colored woods, blaze orange and harvest moon.

Here is my poem:

The harvest moon shines brightly
On the colored woods
Carpeted with leaves that fall and blanket
The forest floor in yellow, blaze orange and red.
The old gray muskrat grumbles
As he swims up to his nest,
Preparing to wile away the long days of winter
Foraging for food
In the waters under the ice
Safe from hungry predators.

The chilly weather we are having reminded me of this. When we went to Teresa and Gary Gretzinger, Dick's niece and husband's home by a lake we saw a muskrat. At least I think it was a muskrat. I took a picture. Not too clear but I will post it.

Have a great day. Only one more day til Thanksgiving.

Love

Mary

This day was mostly mine.

Chelsea woke me up at 4:35AM. Isn't that ridiculous. Well I showed her. I took he out, let her do her thing and then shut her out of the bedroom and slept until almost 6:30AM. Then Chelsea and I had a wonderful walk. She was little Miss Adventure and decided to go on a bit different route. We walked down the railroad track to Highland and then up the hill and around the park. She was quite ambitious.

I went to bible study in Sheboygan Falls. We had a nice group and a lot to say. We decided that we need to pray for peace in this world. We talked about a lot of things but this was the last statement that we made.

Stopped at Mom's next and we had a fun visit. I helped her fill out her Senior Care application and then we just talked. Suddenly I looked at the clock and it was almost 11:30. As I had to get home and fix lunch and be at The Plymouth Writer's club by 1:00PM..

We heard from Dr. Sharon's office and there is no infection in his leg. We were a bit concerned because there was a sore on his right leg.

The Writer's club was fun. Bill Krauter, one of our newer members has self published a book and is very proud as well he should be. We all had readings today. We have set our next meeting as a Christmas party. I have to check for a place to meet . We will meet at 11:30AM for lunch and bring a $5 present to exchange. These are always fun.

I stopped at Kate Herman's to give her several things that I had been piling up for her. Some for CWI and some regarding writing. Her friend and my neighbor Freddie Noordyk was visiting so we FINALLY got to meet. She is also a friend of Joan Putz Huehns, who I graduated from high school from.

Kate is now battling a cold. After all that Ron has been through they don't need that. She is afraid that Ron may be catching it. Lets all pray that this does not happen. He is gradually regaining some strength. It will take a long time.

I forgot to tell you something that was really a bit unique about the opening day of hunting season. I got settled in my place at just daybreak. Then I started hearing shouting. The shouting was over in the direction of the road and continued for about an hour and then started again shortly after lunch for another half an hour or so. I asked the guys about it. They all heard it too, except for Jason who was on the other side of the road. Corey was closest to the road. We thought it might have been a protester of the hunt. Cory thought he was yelling "Lie down. Lie down." I am sure the deer all understood him. As I was the only on who really saw any deer, maybe they did. I don't quite understand these people. Keeping the herd down is a way of insuring that all who survive will have enough to eat. I wonder how happy they are if the deer, as they move and learn to live in the more populated areas, are eating their shrubs and bushes.

Oh well, takes all kinds.

Tomorrow we see Dr. Hodous.


Have a good day.

Mary

It was quite a nice day for Dick and Me.

I got up at 6AM and went to Mass. I ended up being a Communion Minister. I was not assigned but someone did not go up so then we volunteer.

I fixed a great breakfast this morning. I cooked up some Irish sausages and white pudding for me and bacon and pork sausages for Dick with hash browns, eggs and fresh rolls. Num Num.

I had three projects for today. 1. Clean my gun. It got wet yesterday and one has to do some quick cleaning then to prevent rusting. 2. Wrapping the package for Jacquie. Her birthday present is late, but she and I don't worry about that anymore. and 3. I had to bake cookies. I got a call from the Plymouth History Museum asking for one or two dozen cookies for an event on Friday. So I baked good old Toll House Chocolate Chip cookies. I haven't made them in years. I had forgotten just how good they are.

We had chicken breast stuffed with spinach and colcannon for supper.

This will be a full week but we only have on doctor's appointment. That is on Tuesday to see Dr. Hodous about Dick's feet. He seems to be feeling pretty good right now. We are anxious to hear what Dr. Siddique has to say a week from tomorrow.

Tomorrow I will go to Bible Study and Writer's Club.

Hope you have a good week. Will see some of you on Thanksgiving. We are looking forward to that.

Til tomorrow

Mary