Monday

Another cold day, but the sun is out and there is little or no wind chill.

Bart and I went out to the Mall and for lunch.   We are mainly just relaxing and "being with".

So nothing exciting to report.

Dia Dhuit
 Mary

Sunday

It is cold here.   Perhaps not as cold as other parts of the country.  The wind, which started during the night, sounded like a banshee howling around the house.

I slept a bit longer than I probably should have, but then I am on vacation.

The three of us went to Bart and Barb's church for sacrament service this morning.   I like their services.  They consist of testimonies, hymns, blessing and sharing of the sacrament and blessing.

Can't go wrong with any of that.    I noticed something this year that I did not notice last time.    They refer to God the Father as Father Almighty, not THE Father Almighty.    I like that.   He is not a "the" but our actual Father.

Bart and I came home after the service, Barb stayed for some other events.  We just hung around home.  I made lemon bars for Bart.    Later this week, I will make some mint brownies.   Special requests. 

Barb made a delicious taco soup for our supper. 

Talked to Todd this evening.   Jacquie is supposed to be going to a rehab center in Bullhead tomorrow.   She was very sick today though, unable to hold anything down.    We must keep on praying.

That is all the news I have.  Only two more days left in 2013.

Athbhliain faoi mhaise dhuit!

Mary

  

A WARM Day

It almost got up to 60 degrees today.   Almost a heat wave.   Bart and I went out for breakfast this morning.   Barb and Marlise, her mom, had errands to run.    Barb always helps her mom on Saturday mornings.   Bart and I went to a restaurant called Jimmy's Egg.   I had sweet potato pancakes with bacon and an egg.    So good.   Bart had Eggs Benedict.    I wanted to go to breakfast with him because that was a tradition with us when he was in high school before he got his car.   We always enjoyed that time together.

We got home at about 10:30.    Jim and Michelle came down and got here shortly before noon.  We had a nice afternoon catching up.   Barb and I fixed a late lunch of steak, barbeque beef, salad and beans.   Then we had a wonderful cheesecake with fresh strawberries for dessert.   They had to leave about 4PM to be home before dark.     Jim has a bad back and knee and the ankle, we know.   Yesterday he slipped off a ladder trying to take Christmas down.   He twisted things so is very uncomfortable.

We are thinking of going to Ok City next Saturday and will hook up with Jim and Michelle at a huge flea market if we do.     Barb and I went to the store to pick up a couple things that I needed to make some bars that Bart wants me to bake.   Got home in time to get to Mass at 5: 30PM.    Fascinating Mass.   It was Bi Lingual.   Some parts were in English and some in Spanish and the sermon was translated.  Loved it.   Then at the end of Mass we had a couple celebrating their 50th Anniversary renew their vows.    I think this is a very active church.

So the day is over .   Tomorrow will be rather quiet, but I am planning on going to service with Bart and Barb tomorrow.

Time to wind down for sleep

Dia Dhuit
 Mary
 

Oklahoma

I arrived here safe and sound.   The trip was OK. (notice my little pun.)   I  was picked up by Rite Way at 3:30AM to be at Mitchell Field for my 6AM flight to Dallas.  When we arrived, I traipsed and took the shuttle to the gate assigned for the next leg of my flight - straight to Lawton.  I grabbed a snack and some coffee and after an hour or so, the airline in their wisdom decided to move us to another gate halfway down the hall.   Bart was waiting for me in Lawton and we headed to the house after stopping for lunch.

We spent a quiet afternoon.  Barb got home in the late afternoon.   We ordered pizza for supper and all went to bed early.   This was Barb's first day back to work since her surgery and she was totally exhausted.  Today Barb had to work again, and Bart and I stayed home and computered and watched TV and I hugged and petted doggies and kitties to my heart's content.

Tomorrow we will get out a bit before cold weather comes in on Sunday.  Jim and Michelle may come down.   Jim slipped off of a ladder taking down Christmas lights.   If his back is OK (there I go again.) they will come.   Otherwise, we will see how we can manage in the next week I am here.

Anyway.   I am so happy to be here.  I love all my kids so much. I am really the luckiest girl in the world.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Merry Christmas

Hope your holiday has been as lovely as mine.   I was able to get packed and a bit of cleaning done around here so that when I come back there is not a mess to contend with.

The limo company called.  They will be picking me up at 3:15AM, which gives me a whole extra hour to rest.

Went over to Bobbie and Bill's at about 3:30PM.  Roxie was a very sad kitty.   She meowed all the way but seemed quite content when we opened the carrier at Bobbie's and after making sure that everything was where she thought it should be settled down very well.

Richard and Brenda arrived shortly after I did so we had a fine visit and opened presents over appetizers and some drinks.   Then a great dinner and more visiting with Christmas carols in the background

Home now and will try to get some rest before my pick up in the morning.  You will hear from me either tomorrow or the next day.

I hope your day was a nice as ours.  

Nollaig Shona Duit

Mary

Christmas Eve

Cold again today and the roads were slushy and kind of slippery.    I spent the morning cleaning things up so that everything will be mostly in order when I am gone.

I went to Mother's at about 11:30AM with her lunch.    We had Gumbo and Risotto with pumpkin cupcakes for dessert.    I also brought her a tuna sandwich for her supper.     I took care of her current bills and then we had time to visit too.  Shirley Carpenter dropped in for a bit.   She is a good friend.  She brings communion to Mother almost every week.

I gave Mom her present too.   A nice bottle of wine.   She looked very pleased.

Then when she got sleepy, I came home again and wrapped  the rest of the presents and finish most of the packing.    Tomorrow I will finish the packing and clean the kitchen floor before I leave.   With this weather, it needs at least a rinsing.

I went to the 6PM Mass for Christmas.   I was a communion minister which is always so important to me.   I feel so close to God when I can share him.

The music was beautiful.   We had the folk choir singing and leading us.

Until tomorrow.   And let me wish you a Merry Christmas Eve.

Nollaig shona duit.

Mary

Monday

I can hardly believe that there is only one day left until Christmas. 

This was a lovely Monday.  Bible Study at 9:30AM.   We are, as I said, doing the study of Acts.  We are just at the beginning.   One of the questions was "What pressures do Christians today experience that might lead to a silencing of convictions."   Pretty interesting question at any time in history.

Mom looked beautiful today.    The Nurse came while I was there.   We paid the bills after she left and still had time to visit before the Meals came.   Tomorrow and Christmas are no Meals on Wheels days.   I am taking her meals tomorrow and Christmas is also covered.

I finished wrapping all but one present that I still don't have -- EWWW-- getting nervous.   I talked to both Bart and Bret today.   My package from Bret arrived today.   I can tell what two of the packages are but will not open until Christmas morning.   Roxie and I will enjoy that.

So, until tomorrow. 

Nollaig Shona Duit

Mary

Hi

The past two days have been spent Mainly at home, though Saturday, I went to Mass and then at 7PM down to the Art Center to enjoy their presentation of A Celtic Christmas.    It was very well put on and worth seeing.   The show featured, as they put it, Traditional Celtic and English Christmas Carols.   There was a chorus, consisting mainly of children,  three feature soloists and three musicians accompanying.   I loved it.   I went with my neighbors Pat and Roger Cook and after the event we went over to the new wine bar in town called POURVINO.   It is quite the place and I hope it stays open.  Pat's grand daughter works there.  Pat and I have decided that we will go back for one of their "flights of wine" along with a meal one evening.   It was fun.

The promised snow came during the night and bless the Lord, I was able to stay home all day.    Mark and his crew have plowed us out so tomorrow I will have no trouble getting to Sheboygan Falls.    I did part of my packing today.   Roxie is suspicious.  

Tomorrow will be a pretty normal Monday.   Tuesday, I will go to have lunch with Mother and bring her something for her supper.   I will bring her Christmas present also.   I am getting her some wine.   I have also renewed her Reader's Digest large print.

So.  The wait for Christmas is almost over.   It is bitter sweet this year.  I am so glad that I will be with my children, at least four of them during the holidays.   It will make it special and give new memories, I know.

Bless us every one.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another day closer to Christmas.   They keep talking about ice storm.    So far so good though.

I went out this noon for lunch at the Dairy Queen,   stopped at Walgreens.   The rest of the day was quiet.   I have been rather lazy the past few days and am glad of it.

Tomorrow I am going to a Celtic Christmas at the Plymouth Art Center.  That will perk me up.  I have heard good things about it.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Here I am again

Yesterday was a year since my love went up to heaven and I was just glad to be home and be.   I received a couple of phone calls that were helpful.    My sister, Nora, called and my dear friend, Ione, whose husband joined Dick on Christmas, knew and called me too.   I received a call from my lovely granddaughter too, but was unable to get to the phone in time.   I called her today and we also had a really lovely talk.   Marcus got home from day care just about when we were done talking so I got to say hi to that little man too.  

I heard a man say that "When I am grieving, I am remembering."   It is so true.   I don't like to cry but sometimes one has to and with Dick, I usually remember something he did and then I end up smiling with the joy.    

Today was nice.   I went exercising at Generations this morning.   Then I cleaned up the kitchen and left at about 10:30AM to buy some better walking shoes on my way to Bobbie and Bill's.   Bobbie had invited me over to help her bottle the batch of Gewurtztraminer Wine.    It is just gorgeous.  
She filtered it despite the fact that it looked pretty clear already but with the filtering it is absolutely sparkling.  Our "testing taste" was actually quite pleasant.  It should mature into something just fantastic.

Bobbie fixed lunch too.   Split pea soup and pretzel sandwiched.  
Really good, she made the pretzels herself.  
We had balls of death for dessert.     A nice way to spend the day.

We were going to do dinner, but with the projected bad weather tonight figured that it was better to get me home before the evening when it is supposed to come in.    I mixed up the dough for the Christmas Stolon tonight.   It has to sit overnight.   I plan on baking it tomorrow afternoon.   Then I am all done with the baking.  Probably too much as usual but I do like baking.

So that is what is going on around here.  I am sipping a bit of Irish Cream and trying to keep Roxie away from it.  

Bless you

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hello

Roxie is upset.  Probably because this is not the best evening for me.   Tomorrow it will be a year since my sweet heart went to heaven.

I am so glad that he is there and no longer in pain or feeling bad, but I miss him so much.   Why do anniversaries bring up these feelings?   It is just another day.  I am not handling it well, I fear.   But I keep remembering my Bret and our mantra  "Don't worry, Mom.   Everything will be OK.   It will be all right, Don't worry. "

It isn't working right this minute but I know it will be OK eventually.

Jeff and Kathy stopped by on their way to Mom's house.  Jeff tried to fix my storm window but he did not have the proper tool either.  I went to the new Ace Hardware in Sheboygan Falls and they got it repaired and they didn't even charge me.   When I got home I called my neighbor's, the Hurries. and Peggy sent Bob over to put it in for me.   So I am insulated from the cold.

People are really good to me.  It is really hard for me to ask for help.  But I am learning.   Several years ago, my doctor, Dr. Murthy, told me to ask for help if I needed it.  I am trying very hard but I am a stubborn person and like my Mother keep thinking "Mind over Matter."   Most of the time it works.

Tomorrow I am home all day and will try to get my head together.   

I think I sent all of you my new Christmas Poem called Nollaig Shona.   If I didn't let me know and I will send it to you special.

Here is an old poem that is not exactly Christmas but kind of fit.

BOY CHILD

by Mary Kunert

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?

Pray for me please and remember Jacquie, my sister in law too.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Monday

The morning was pretty typical.    9:30AM, Bible Study and then a nice time with Mother.   The VNA Nurse was there when I arrived, so I took care of the bills which were really none, just some filing and a check for me for the cheese that she bought for Christmas presents. 

Next I came back to Plymouth and went to my fellow poet and member of the Cream City Writer's Club for a pot luck and Christmas party.    We had a great time.   A daughter of one of our poets, named Hope, who often comes to the meeting, but has never written anything before had a poem about a cotton candy heaven that was charming.  We even sang carols.    AND had a fabulous meal.

I did my first transcribing of the minutes of condo meeting today.   I will review tomorrow, make a couple of calls to find out a couple of things that I didn't get down and then send them to the board for review.   I would like to get them to the members before I go to Oklahoma.

Roxie has been doing a quick race around the house once or twice a day.   She sounds like a herd of elephants and I am so glad.   The exercise, little as it is, is good for her.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Weekend

It was a pretty good weekend.


The Tallgrass Condo board meeting was yesterday morning, which probably is what wore me out and made me forget to post last night.  The meeting went well.   I am planning on having the minutes done and approved by the board members to review so I can get them to the residents before I leave for Oklahoma.

I went to Mass in the evening and then Roxie and I just relaxed and enjoyed ourselves.    I think I got my Christmas Cards done.    I have been so muddled and did not write everything down, so if you didn't get one, let me know and I will forward immediately :)

Today has been a super Sunday,    I slept in some, then I baked an apple pie (I had a crust in the fridge and know that Mom loves apple pie) and mixed up a small meatloaf for my supper.   I figure that is that last whole meal that I will have to cook before I leave.

At noon, I went to the Glas House in Sheboygan.    I dont know how long they have been there but my friend Mary Wagner was speaking there about her photo art.   She is the one who wrote Running with Stilettos, Heck on Heels and Fabulous in Flats.   I really enjoyed her talk and after she finished, Keary Kautzer, a water color artist that I also know, spoke about his art.    A super way to spend a cold Sunday.  Incidentally, The Poets at Mead are doing another event at Ebco.   18 of us are submitting three poems that we seal in an envelope.   The artists involved put pictures of three of their works in a sealed envelope.   The artists randomly pick and envelope and have to do a piece of art about one of the three.   The poets randomly pick an envelope and have to do a poem about one of the art pieces.   We will each have two items in the end exhibit which will be in March.   I go into that because I picked Keary's art envelope.   I have the copies on my file cabinet so that I can absorb them before I write.   I am torn between two.

So the day is winding down and so am I.    I called the Sunrise Hospital in Vegas and found out that my sister in law, Jacquie has to be retested tomorrow.   They were unabl to complete the test today.   She may have colon cancer, so pray for her.  I have placed her on all my prayer chains.   My list is getting long again.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

One of the parents of one of the children who died at Sandy Hook said something very wise.

"When I am grieving, I am remembering."   I feel this way too.   It is only tree days from the anniversary of my  sweet guy making his way to heaven.   I grieve, but I remember with joy and laughter.    I used to tell him that as long as he could make me laugh I would keep him around and he never stopped making me laugh.   Even now.   What a blessing I have.

Home day (Almost)

I did go to exercise class at 8:30AM but aside from that, I never left the house.

It was very cold again, I even turned on the fireplace to take the chill off of the living room this afternoon.    I love fireplaces.

I got the packages all done today.   Yea.   Now I will go to the post office tomorrow and get them off.   I still have a few cards to do but they will get done.  

I called Leslie today.  She sent some Kunert's Fine Wines coasters.  How fun is that.

Bobbie's picture is on the fron page of the Plymouth Review.   She is checking out the food table at the Christmas Celtic Tea the the CWI and SCHRC put on at the Plymouth History Museum.  And that is REALLY fun.

Hopefully it will begin to warm up soon.  Doesn't look too positive though.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Deep Freeze

It never got into the teens today.  I went grocery shopping this morning and picked up a few more Christmas cards. 
Then I spent the day working on Christmas presents and generally cleaning.   I realized that it is only two weeks until Christmas and I will be leaving the day after so I want the house in order and everything kind of organized before I leave. 

I will have quite enough to come back to.

This evening I went to the Poets at Mead meeting with Sy.   He and his Nora are such a dear couple.   They always want to give me things and worked it out good this time.  Nora sent a bottle of Bushnell Irish Honey with a lovely thank you note for helping out her Sy.   I enjoy taking him to these poetry events.   He is good company.   I am having a nice little shot of that Irish Honey tonight to ward off the cold. 

So that is pretty much the day.   It was Zero degrees when I pulled into the garage.  It will probably dip below before morning.   We had two poems tonight about the warmth of a home.   Clark's about the home being a warm "capsule" against the winter and Sy's being a lovely story of he and Nora in their home today after 69 years of marriage - alone again as at the beginning and so content with each other.   It was lovely.

Stay warm.   About everybody in the country has to try to do that.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Success

Today was very successful.  I went to exercise at 8:30AM over at Generations.    I am trying to make a habit of this as I do not have a dog to walk me.   I do need exercise.

Then I came home and showered before picking Kate up.   I had my annual Christmas trip to Gibbsville planned and she likes to do that too.   Nice, I didn't have to go alone.    I got Mom's order too and we dropped the ones she doesn't mail at her house on the way back to Plymouth.    Kate and I had lunch at the new Mexican restaurant.    I really like their food.  Home again,  I spent the afternoon packing the fudge and buckeyes to send to the out of state kids.   I should have everything ready to send out by the end of the week.  

This evening my neighbor Jean and I went to St. John the Baptist for the penance service.   I like to do this twice a year at least but missed the spring one.   I must check to see if any parishes have weekly confession available.

Tomorrow is quieter.   I will grocery shop and pick up my Christmas cards in the morning and then in the evening go to the Poets of Mead meeting.    I always pick up Sy Regan on my way.

It is just bitter cold and supposed to be getting even colder the next couple days.    God is good to us with nice warm homes to live in.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

"God bless anyone who's sleeping out tonight.   Tuck them in and keep them warm and don't turn out the light."

Monday over

It was very cold today but by the time I woke up out roads, driveways and walks were shoveled and Mark was finishing salting.  On cold mornings like this, it is good to be in a condo.

Went to Sheboygan Falls at 9AM for Bible Study.   I had a coupon for a free Subway sandwich so I picked that up on the way as I was having lunch with Mom.    The RN and the OT from the Visiting Nurses were both coming.   She knew about the RN but the OT (Occupational Therapist) was new so I figured I should be there to kind of introduce.

Mom did just fine.   We had a lovely lunch together, got all the bills paid.   She was checked over by the RN.  This nurse was new to Mom, the gal, Pat, who will see her the most, was off today.   This nurse, MaryAnn, goes to St. John's with me.    The OT evaluated her and told Mom that she is doing just fine with what she does now.   There is nothing she will change or recommend.  So.  The OT will not have to come again.  This is good. 

I got home at about 2PM and took a short nap myself.  

I am working on Christmas Cards and Christmas packages.    I want to be able to mail everything by next Monday.   A reasonable goal.

Tomorrow I am going to Gibbsville Cheese for that part of my gift and to get Mom's gifts ordered too.  Kate is going with me.   A couple of years ago, I had mentioned to her that I go every year and she asked to go along.   So I ask her every year.   It is good to have company out there and we will do lunch on the way back.   

So, I believe that it will still be cold tomorrow, but no snow, so we will be safe driving out there.  Hope you readers with all the snow are starting to get some relief.   This is really a very odd year.   That new storm better go somewhere else.    Not here either please.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Christmas Tea

CWI, SCHRC and the Plymouth History Museum celebrated our 8th Celtic Christmas Tea at the museum today.   It was lovely.   We had over 40 people in attendance and enjoyed the music of 4Reel, some of the musicians that play at 52 Stafford on Wednesdays.  

The goodies were, as always, so good and the company was super.   This event is the one that usually gets me into Christmas mood.   It was a bit hard this year when I went into church for Mass after the event.  I was called away last year because Dick's pneumonia had really felled him at that point.   The Celtic friends that were at the Tea and those at Mass were all supportive and though I still feel a bit "squishy"  (I can't think of a really proper word)   I feel the support and love of all those who care for me and are there if I need to call on you.   I love you all and will not hesitate to ask for help if I need it.


Mass was helpful and I was able to  remember with joy.   I took communion to Rita and Tom too.   That is such a pleasure.   I actually have Jesus riding in my car!   It was especially nice tonight because I was able to meet Rita and Tom's son Paul, his wife and son.

Tomorrow I can stay home which is a good thing because of this bitter cold that we are experiencing.  It could be worse, we could be in Oklahoma and Texas with cold AND snow.   Better clear up before I go to visit the Oklahoma kids right after Christmas.

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Fun time

It was a nice day.  The main home area  is pretty well decorated and cleaned up as Jody did her cleaning on top of all I have been doing.   The table looks cluttered because it is really the only place that I can stage and wrap the packages that I will be putting together and sending.

I made the fudge today and the buckeyes are scheduled for Sunday. 

I did go to lunch with my bank friends and had a nice hour with them.    I was hungry for beef.   All I have had since Thanksgiving is turkey or chicken.   So I ordered a mushroom burger and it was marvelous.

I just got home from the opening party for the members exhibition at the Plymouth Arts Center.  My Kevin of Glendolaugh is in the exhibit.  I am really quite pleased with it.    They always  have such pleasant music and the food was to die for.   I met so many friends so it was a totally enjoyable event.

Tomorrow is the CWI Celtic Tea at the Plymouth History Museum so it will be a busy day too.   The first thing I have to do is bake the brown bread.

Now it is time for this lady to head for bed.

Bless you all. 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Short and sweet

It was supposed to be a day at home but things kind of got away from me as I told you last night.   I went to Mother's at 9:30AM to prepare her for the VNA people.  They got there right on time.   The nurse sent through things observing Mom as she did her normal  schedule while they were there and asking questions.   They will be coming to help her twice a week now.   It is one more visit and person to see that she is safe.

I did my grocery shopping on the way home and have been spending the rest of the day decorating for Christmas and handling lots of desk work.

I am really ready for bed tonight.   Tomorrow I should be home all day except that I am going to exercise class in the morning and will stop at Walgreens to pick up some prescriptions on the way home again.

Nora and Bart both called this afternoon and evening which made my day much less lonely.  Friendly voices fill up the void.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was rainy all day.    With temps getting up into the 40s it was only slippery rather early this morning.   I went to Generations for the walking class again.   The classes are Tuesday and Thursday every week and I started a couple of weeks ago at the invitation of my neighbor Pat.   She and her husband both go.   I think it will do me some good since I don't have a doggy to exercise me.  Rather walk the doggie but the people there are all fun.  It is about an hour.   Today we did kick boxing moves.   I can't use my right arm but just stick it in my pocket and do everything else.

When I got home, I showered and then continued with doing a bit more Christmas decorating.  I had to complete the present for the Christmas Exchange at the Quilt Club.   I made a patchwork  Christmas stocking out of satins with a black fur top and snowflakes and an angel on it.   

Had a fun time at the Quilters Christmas.  We always share a lunch at the December meeting.  I brought Pumpkin Cupcakes and some candy.    It was quite the spread.   Then we had our meeting followed by the gift exchange.    The present I received is a cool hot pad mitt and two crocheted hot pads.   Pretty and I can always use them.

Home again, I continued with putting things away and decorating.   Jeff and I were on the phone with a couple of things on Mom.   As it turned out, we needed to trade, so on his way home, he dropped my item off and picked his up.    I gave him some of the pumpkin cupcakes for his house.

I received a call from the VNA today.   I had called Dr. Hancock and asked if he would recommend that Mother be evaluated to see if she would qualify for palliative care under her insurance plan.   I really think she will.   She is truly the bridge patient.    She doesn't really need constant care but her weakness and  health concerns should be monitored .   Anyway, they will be out to evaluate her tomorrow at 10AM.   I will go there about 9:30AM to tell her.  She does know that I was going to call Dr. Hancock about this.

So my day at home tomorrow is now full.   Oh well, I will have the entire afternoon.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

My Advent Calendar

Come on over to claim a candy cane and a chocolate one day.

Sunday - First Day of Advent

I managed to get the Advent Calendar that I made several years ago.  Actually while we were still in Hunters Glen.    I think you have seen it but I will send a picture.    I had to remove the first candy cane today and the piece of candy that was in the pocket.   Each day this will happen.   As I don't have a big tree this year to move the candy canes to, I will put them in a glass vase filled with stones or marbles until Christmas.   Of course, if anyone comes over, they get to that the cane and the candy out and they can keep them if they want.    I always send them to Jim each year after Christmas.   This too is tradition.

I got all the wreaths up and now my outside is totally decorated.   I am assuming that I have the timer working right.

I located the tree I got from Kate in the living room and have started moving other things up and around the house.   I had to spend part of today making a present for the Kettle Country Quilters on Tuesday.   We are having our party and exchange home made gifts.   I make a Christmas Stocking.   I still have to put the hanger on it but it is looking OK.

This coming week actually looks pretty quiet until the weekend.    A lot is happening on Friday and Saturday but I have lots of time to lead up to it.

So til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Whew the day is done

This morning bed felt goo good.   I was able to go back after I fed Roxie for an hour or so anyway.   Then I had to get moving so I could have everything here done in time to be at Mother's to help butcher the deer.     I aimed for 9:30 and was only a little bit late.

There were two this year so by the time I left shortly after one PM all the pieces were trimmed and the last real chore was grinding the meat for the hamburger. 
Bobbie and I like to help because we get to visit with the guys for a bit.   Kathy and Georgie helped this year too.  So it was really fun.   They guys are always kind to Bobbie and me and give us some meat for helping.   I brought home the roast for the wild game dinner and a liver that they saved for me.

I had to leave shortly after one to take my wall hanging of Kevin of Glendaloch to the Plymouth Arts Center to be displayed with member art.   That celebration will be next Friday evening.   Next weekend will be VERY busy as there is the opening at the Arts Center and also the Annual Celtic Tea at the Plymouth History Museum.

I got home in time to get ready for church, check my email and mail and stop at Kate's.  She sold me the Thomas Kinkade tree that I borrowed last year.    I loved it and don't want to put up the big tree. It is nice of her to do that.

So I am all done in now.    Got a lot to do tomorrow too but at least I will be home all day.  

Take care of yourselves.

I love you

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi again

I know I missed posting last night, but it was such a full day and I went to bed later than I usually do anyway.

It was a great Thanksgiving.   Jim and Michelle called in the morning.   We had a nice phone visit.  They were going to Bart and Barb's (Actually my grandson Adam's home) for dinner.  Glad family is staying in touch.   We have such a special one.

I spent the day working on dinner at my own pace.   Richard and Brenda got here about three thirty or so .  They set up the appetizers.  Bobbie and Bill got here shortly afterwards and we opened up some good hard cider to go with the appetizers.   At 5ish we filled the dinner table with good food and bubbly wine to go with it. 

Such a special day.  Good food and special time with each other.   I love it.

Today was quieter.   I was able to stay home most of the day.   Richard and Brenda, of course, had spent the night so we had a really good breakfast.   Usually I don't do a lot for breakfast and scrambled eggs with fruit and fresh breads was good.  We had Jody, my cleaning lady, enjoy the breakfast with us.

Tonight I went over to 52 Stafford to enjoy Blarney.   I sat with Warren and Nancy until they left and had started talking to the couple in back of me, Linda and Randall Norris.   He gave me a copy of his book called Highway 61, Heart of the Delta.   I am going to send him my poetry book.

So it was a full day and a happy one.  I love my family.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Whew

Well, it has been a full day.    I had to be up rather early as the Board meeting for the condos was this morning at 8AM.   We usually meet in the afternoons but this month, that did not work.

It was a productive meeting.  The Membership budget meeting is December 14 and we will not have another board meeting until February.   The winters are much quieter for board problems.

I spent the day transcribing the minutes of the board meeting, finishing doing the priming of the areas that Gary fixed for me and researching for some information for CWI.

This evening I drove to West Bend for the funeral of a my friend Kathy's husband.   I told you that I was going to do that.   It was quite a funeral.   Lots of people, lots of food, a bar.   Her family is very friendly and nice.    I am glad I could go to be there for her.  The line took so long that I started talking to my companions.   The young man walking next to me started to hit on me.    Wow, that was quite exciting for me.   Been a long time.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Cold as the Dickens

It was COLD today.   The only thing that saved us is that there was really no wind, so it was tolerable when one had to be outside.

I had to go out too. Bible Study as usual at 9:30AM.  We have just finished discussing the third chapter of Acts.  The questions again drew us back into the Old Testament.  To Isaiah who in his chapter 53 practically tells the live of Jesus.

Went over to Mom's next.   She was fine but very tired.   I can tell that her energy level is really low.   We got the bills paid and weeded out the junk mail.   Then we had a chance to visit a bit.   But I could tell how tired she was and she really needed a bit of a rest before her dinner arrived.

I stopped at the post office on the way home to mail Jacquie's birthday present.   I remembered that her favorite color is purple and found a beautiful purple necklace.   I got some Christmas stamps for my self too.

Home again, I had leftover risotto and spaghetti squash with beef for lunch.   Then I scrubbed the kitchen floor and primed all but two spots that need priming and cleaned the toilets.    I think I told you that Jody, my cleaning lady couldn't come on Friday because she was sick so I got to work myself.  I am not vacuuming though unless she can't come this week too.   I just had the carpets cleaned and there is really not much traffic.   I had to aggravate the neck and arm any more that I have to.  The floor HAS to be washed at least once a week.

Had a conference call with the CWI Board at 7PM.   Short and too the point.   We are quite efficient.   I have a couple of things to do before Sunday but will start that tomorrow.

It is now time to roll up the sidewalks and go to bed.

So until tomorrow, when I am going to make Pumpkin Seed Brittle

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy.  W. B. Yeats

Saturday

It was a perfectly lovely day.   I finished dusting the living room in the early hours.   Then I drove to Kohler to the American Club to meet Bobbie and Bill at the Annual Christmas Holiday Market.

It seemed bigger than last year.   I know there were over 100 vendors which certainly is a LOT.  Also there seemed to be a lot more people at the event.    That is a good sign.   Maybe the economy is better?   Or at least people are glad to get out and it will be back again next year.

We went to the Blind Horse for our lunch as there was an hour wait at the Horse and Plow.   Bobbie and Bill had not been to the Blind Horse before and were glad to try it.    We were all very happy with our food, as I have been before.   I had a scallop/shrimp special, Bill had a burger and Bobbie had an Ahi Tuna salad.  

I went to the 4PM mass and fortunately remembered my neighbor's Tom and Rita needed communion.  Usually I call to confirm but since I didn't call, I took a chance and am so glad as Rita was expecting me to come.

She is so sweet.   Please keep her in your prayers, along with Jody, my cleaning lady and my friend, Kathy, who just lost her husband.

Tomorrow I get to stay home.   Lucky me and lucky Roxie.    She is starting to feel better about the new furniture arrangements.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Good Day

I went to the Sheboygan County  Caregiver Conference arranged by the Alzheimer's Association at Acuity.  It was a very informative and enjoyable event.   Their theme was Forget-Me-Not.    Very appropriate.   There were vendors from many local resources.   Home Care, Rehab, Transportation. Meals on Wheels, Nursing homes etc.   I got a lot of pens and note pads let me tell you.   I saw Heidi from Embrace Care who we dealt with when Dick was getting care here.    She would come occasionally when the regulars couldn't and just check on us.    I loved that she asked about Roxie too.

I especially liked Nancy Simenz who is chaplain at Sharon Richardson Community Hospice, talked about Difficult Caregiving Decisions.   I brought her handouts to share with the family because they are very practical.    I will be taking them and other stuff to Mom's for any of the family to peruse.

The second speaker that I REALLY got something from was   Greg Giles, who is employed by the Y in Fond du Lac.   He is an amazing speaker and left us with some simple "lists" to practice.

The first is 1. Risk More
                   2.  Reflect More
                   3.  Leave a Legacy

He said that when someone did a survey of older people and asked how they would change their lives if they could, the above were the ones that appeared over and over again.

The second list is  1.  Care
                              2.  Share
                              3.  Laugh
                              4.  Dare.

I ran into several fellow caregivers.   Always good to share and these events always have the best lunches.   They are worth it for the lunch actually.

So that was my day.   Time to settle.   I am watching John McGivern in Door County.    Soon I will go to bed and get ready for tomorrow.   A much quieter day.

Richard and Brenda emailed and we have decided on dinner on Thanksgiving at 5PM.   Gathering anytime in the afternoon. 

I heard from Jim and Michele and they are going to Bart and Barb's for Thanksgiving.

Good.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was cold today.   I slept in a bit.   I am not sure Roxie approves of me sleeping late, she generally comes to get me at about 8AM if I go back to bed.    Tomorrow I think I'll get up with her because I am going to a Caregiver's Conference at Acuity.   They always have a lot of information.  I am going with two friends.

This afternoon, I went to the bank, the post office, Walgreens and grocery shopping.   I am steadily working to have everything where I want it now that the furniture is rearranged.

So that's all folks for today.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am home from a Mass at St. John's for those friends and family who passed away this past year.    It was a lovely Mass and I was able to be a Eucharistic Minister.    I love that and I made me feel very close to my love.  

They lit a candle for every person who passed and we got to take them home.   Someone did a lot of work- it is lovely.   We will have it on our Thanksgiving table.

I got the carpets cleaned this afternoon and they helped me rearrange the furniture.   The room look empty now and BIG.

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Why are Mondays so wild?     It was nice though.   But COLD!!   The wind just roared all night and was still not settled down for most of the day.   That made it feel even colder.

I went to Bible Study at 9:30AM.  We seemed very disjointed today but talking about Peter helping the lame man to walk set off a lot of discussion.   We did find out by reading an Old Testament reference from a previous chapter that we looked up "by accident" turned out to be the Shema, a traditional prayer of Jewish life Deut 6:4-9 which is just what Jesus preached.   Of course, he was a Jew.   It starts off as "Listen, Israel! The Lord our God is the only true God."  It goes on to tell us how to be right in this world by following God's laws.

Went to Mom's next.    Mom seemed really tired today.    I am concerned for her.  She looked just beautiful though.   Her hair, freshly permed last Saturday, was coiffed perfectly and shining silver.   When I told her how good she looked, she perked up a bit.

Then I went to the Exchange Bank to have lunch with my friend Peggy before we walked over to BookHeads for our Cream City Writers meeting.   We have a couple of new members, Pattie Mc Kensie and Craig, I forgot his last name but he is a friend of Jena's.   He is a pleasure and sharing assignments from a class he is taking and his own experiments.  

Got home at about 2PM.   I rested for a while.   The got a couple of phone calls, One from my friend Paul Hanson and one from Nancy Roehre.

I have been working on the CWI newsletter.   Want to get it out tomorrow after I review what I wrote.

So.   Dancing with the stars is half over.   I am going to watch the rest of it in bed.

Roxie is getting used to the new arrangement.    I think I have made things pretty kitty friendly for her.   Tomorrow she will have to put up with carpet cleaners and the moving of furniture in the living room.   I suppose she wonders if this agony will ever end.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A beginning of another week.

It has been a lovely beginning.    

Wenig Funeral home, who took care of Dick's funeral for me conduct a memorial service about this time of the year.    I received an invitation of course and was delighted to go as I have been feeling a bit down as the weather glooms up and the holidays approach. 

It was at the Gibbsville Reformed Church - which is lovely, I had never been there before.   The service was so comforting and ended with names birth and death dates and pictures of all those who Wenig helped inter since last year.   The Blessed Trinity Bereavement committee helps John with this event so it is ecumenical which makes it even more special.  

I cried.   But that is OK.   They gave ideas on how to face the upcoming holidays which I will ponder.  Some are very good and we will all benefit from them as we miss our guy so much.

I even got an angel ornament to display this year and for years to come.  

So it has been a hard day but one of those days where one feels lot of support and camaraderie.  I am truly blessed.    I was even reminded of my Tony and am so glad that I went to his resting place this year.   It was long needed and Bret told me how much it meant to him.   He has even gone back.    I wonder what Tony would have become.   He will always be my sweet little baby.

Enough.   Tomorrow will be a good day as I will see Mother and will go to the Cream City Writers.   I am also having lunch with my friend Peggy, whose husband was across the hall from Dick at Plymouth Care and passed away three years ago.   She is a fellow poet and very expressive.

Roxie is slowly accepting the new office.    I figure after the livingroom is cleaned and the furniture finally where it should be she will be just fine.    I am thinking of putting a chair in the bedroom for her to have a place to retreat to.  Though, of course, if I am in the office, she can be alone in the living room.   AHA.

Dia dhuit

Mary

"In my many years I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm and three of more is a congress."   John Adams

This is going to be short. 

This afternoon, the Celtic Women had our book discussion meeting on a book we read called Norah by Cynthia Neale.   We got off into the firtst two books chat Cynthia wrote, which were really pre Norah.  The one we read does stand alone but the first two, which were actually written for young people, do tell Norah's story.

We are going to start the Country Doctor Series by Patrick Taylor.    On the line of the James Herriot books, they take place in Ireland and are totally charming.   When I was making sure that I had the first one, I found out that I am two behind.   

Then I went to Mass where I was Eucharistic Minister, subbing for a friend.

Home, I fed Miss Roxie and then trove to the Bull where the Gathering Place was having a big event.   I stayed for two hours, long enough for me.  You know my bedtime.  Good music, good food, good company and lots of fun things to bid on for silent auction.    Good wine too.

But I am tired and glad to be safe at home with my kitty.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just a note

I just am checking in to let you know that I am still around.    It was a lovely day in the 50s.   I went out for lunch and then over to Rocky Knoll to visit my neighbor and friend Jan Wilkerson.   She had back surgery.

This evening Alison and I were invited to our neighbors Pat and Roger's home for Heavy hors d'oeuevres and wine.   Mainly because Pat wanted us to test the Irish Cream Cheesecake that she is going to make for an Irish Christmas event at the Plymouth Arts Center. 

All was delicious we gave our approval.

Now it is bedtime for this lady.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another Full Day

I went to Generations again this morning to exercise.   I put my right hand in my pocket so I couldn't use it and everything went just fine.

After exercising, I came home and continued putting things from the tables and chairs back into the desk and wherever I can find new homes for them.   Roxie feels lost but relaxed a bit when I put her icewater on the desk.   I left for Mom's at about 11:30AM to meet Jeff and finish up a couple to papers that needed signatures.   As I was having lunch with Felicia and Joan at 12:30PM at the Atrium Tea House in the Richardson Furniture Store, it seemed like a good time to connect with the two of them.  Jeff brought me another spaghetti squash and an acorn squash.    Nummy.

The lunch at the Atrium was good and the company was better.   We were discussing the book discussion meeting this Saturday at 1st Congregational.   I am bringing several books for suggested reading and we are also thinking of an Irish film gathering sometimes.    I was shocked to find that these women have never seen The Quiet Man.    This needs to be rectified.

At about 4PM I went to the funeral home.   Pat O'Reilly died on Sunday.   His voice and unending joy will be ever missed in the Irish community and beyond.  His dear wife Joan passed in April.   I think he must have been so very lonely.

Then I came home and ate before going to St. Thomas Aquinas in Elkhart Lake for the last talk by Rich Kearns on The New Evangelism.   My neighbor Jean rode with me.   I am glad that I have been able to hear two of the three talks that he gave.   I was in Louisiana when he gave the first one.
Super speaker.    Gave a lot of direction.  Made us all realize how much Jesus loves us all.

So After 9PM again.   This lady needs to go to bed.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Oops

I have been going all day long.    I had an appointment with Dr. Leben today.    On my way there, I stopped at Bobbie's and dropped off a container of Gumbo for them to try.

Dr. Leben gave me new shots in my neck and shoulder and arm We will see how that goes.  Right now it hurts worse than before.

I then drove to Howards Grove, the Log Cabin, for lunch withe the Class of 58.  I had a fresh Chicken, apple, walnut salad with raspberry vinaigrette.   It was scrumptious.   One of our classmates, Tom Thuene, told me that I look just like he remembers my Mother looking 50 years ago.   Quite a nice complement, I would say.

Home again, I emptied my desk.   Two young men from the wrestling team at the High School came over to move furniture for me.    They were Isaac and Eric.   They moved the chairs out of the "office", took the exercise bike downstairs, took the extra desk out into the garage and moved the other two desks into the office for me.  I am so very proud of myself.    I have the computer all hooked up and working.    HOWEVER.  I seem to have disconnected my phone and I cannot figure it out.    If you need to call me use my cell.   920-912=5345, in case you don't know it.  

I also had to go to Mead Library, via Sy Regan's home , for the Poetry Circle.   We had a nice big group of people.   18 or 19.    Lots of good reads.

And so it is almost ten and I can't stay up any longer.   Tomorrow will be soon enough for this problem and I need to call Ed for carpet cleaning too.    Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Cold, but the sun was shining some

I woke up and it was in the teens outside.   Roxie tried to convince me to open the deck door so that she could look out.     She was disappointed today.

I went to the Generations here in Plymouth for the walking exercise class with my neighbor Pat Cook.   It was fun.   Lasts about 45 minutes.    I kept up with most of it even with my out of shape muscles and I really don't hurt EXCEPT for my right arm. That has been starting to hurt again, and this did not help.    I see Dr. Leben tomorrow morning and she can tell me if I should be doing it.  Perhaps if I strap my right arm to my body so it can't move?

When I got home I went right out to do my grocery shopping and get the lottery ticket.   Lots of cleaning stuff was on sale, so I stocked up.   Also baking things which I will be needing sooner than soon with the holidays coming.

Then I started priming the areas on the walls that Gary Anderson repaired for me.    I will do a bit each day until it is done.    I also called the high school.    Pat Cook told me that the wrestling team members will move furniture around for extra cash for their equipment etc.  The woman in charge, named Barb will call me when she can set it up.  I want to have the living room a living room for Thanksgiving.    If they can get things moved, I can get Schroeder in to clean the carpets next week.

I am also cooking my sugar pumpkins today.   Tomorrow I will roast the seeds and plan on making pumpkin seed brittle with some of it.

So needless to say, I am wearing out pretty quickly tonight.  Tomorrow is pretty busy too but part of it is lunch with my high school classmates.   I am looking forward to that.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Oh No Snow

Yep. It's true.   We had snow today and it actually covered the grass.      Oh well, it is November.

I was on the go from 9AM until I finally got home at 4PM.

My first stop was Blessed Trinity and Bible Study.   I love studying Acts.   The early Christians did cool things.   We are early and Peter just got a lame begger to walk by using Jesus name.   The guy was jumping all over the place.  Sounds so totally natural a reaction if a person just got cured.
We met in the school building as the school is not closed and they are trying to find used for it.

After the study, I went to tell Mother that I would be back at  3PM to pay the bills.   You will understand why when I finish this saga. I went back over to church to pay my respects to Bruce Berlowski, a friend, who died last week.  I wanted to give my condolences to Rose and family.

Then to the Chinese Restaurant near Festival Foods in Sheboygan and lunch with Paul and Carol from the Sheboygan County Writers Club.     We had a nice visit.   Then on to Writers Club.   I read a haiku that I had written for the day and listened to some really super writings from the others.

Then back to Mom's.   She was really tired.  We did however get her bills all paid and I left her settled comfortably in her chair.

So Home by 4PM so that I could give Roxie her Canapes and reassure her that I really amaround.

I finished the daily drudge around here and it is after 8PM already.

I have just about decided that after Christmas, I will go down to Lawton and spend the rest of the holidays with Bart and Barb.  Bart kind of hinted that he would like me for Christmas and I thought this would be the best of both worlds.

Til tomorrow then

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A whole day at home.   I did go over to visit with a neighbor this afternoon, but at least I was able to stay in the neighborhood.

I spent the day writing and I started taping things off for the priming that I have to do in the kitchen and hall.  I did some rearranging in the second bedroom.    I intend to have the carpets cleaned and the living room rearranged by Thanksgiving.

So That was it.   Nothing at all exciting.   Perhaps tomorrow which has turned out to be a real rat race will be more fun to report on.

My neighbor that I visited with gave me one of her paintings.   I am so thrilled.    All I need is another painting but as you know all of mine mean something.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was windy today

The wind was colder than the temperature today.   Is that the chill index?

I went on a cooking frenzy today.   Sometimes I just plain want to cook so - I made andouille and turkey gumbo.   I had a box from the New Orleans Cooking School.   The kit says to mix the package in the box with water then add cooked chicken and the andouille sausages.    I decided to add the Cajun trinity too and used my leftover turkey instead of chicken.   It is good.  

I also made blackberry scones and Scottish shortbread cookies. AND I have a loaf of no knead bread in the oven.   It did not rise like it really should have.   I think my yeast is just too old.   But it did rise so I will have a hearty bread.

I went to the 4PM mass so I can stay home tomorrow.   I am working on my Brigit chapter and she is difficult because there is so MUCH on her and the stories vary.   Too many legends.   To top it off the saint and the goddess stories are all mixed up.

So now it is time to settle in bed with a good book.


Here is something I found in a newspaper somewhere.

HOMEWORK
From a real teacher

Please do one of the following by Tuesday.

1. Master Kung Fu
2. Switch religions for a day.
3. Wear a fake mustache for 24 hours.
4. End world hunger.
5. Find your nemesis, earn their trust, then vanquish them (Preferably with magic.)
6.  In the shower, use conditioner first then shampoo just to see what would happen. (I'm curious)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The end of a super day.

It was SO cold.   I did not realize how cold it was until I left the house with a comparatively light jacket and started walking around the Lakeland College Campus.   

Today was the first day of Karl Elder's Great Lakes Literary Festival at the campus.    It started at 11AM with two speakers, a poet Nick Lantz and a fiction writer, Allyson Goldon Loomis.  Then at two thirty each of the speakers held a workshop.    I went to lunch in Elkhart Lake with Beverly Shellhaass from the Cream City Writers and a few ladies from Karl's Poetry Circle at Mead.   Then most of us returned to participate in a workshop by one or the other speaker.

I went to Nick Lantz's workshop and found it quite helpful.

When I got home, I had received a call from my neighbor's, Bob and Peg.   This is Thursday and they invited me over for a glass of wine.    Evie, one of our other neighbors, came over too.   The even fed us.   Was a lovely hour.

Lastly, I drove over to church for the 2nd talk by Rich Curran about Catholicism, Creating Stronger Families.    A lot to absorb but the main thing I got out of it is that it is so very important to extend blessings and love to those we care about.    Not just thinking about it but actually expressing it.   So. to each and every one of you.   You are my greatest blessings from God and I pray that you will be safe and that you remain healthy and strong in body and spirit.  And I love you so much.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A good Wednesday

Eileen, Dolores, Nora, Me, Mother
For those that might not know.

Just looking at old pictures and found this one.   Can you believe how young we were?

Bobbie and Bill just left.   We had dinner and they changed the bulbs in my kitchen light.    They had been blinking for a week or so.   Yesterday the blinking stopped but when Bill took the cover off, two were burned out.

We had Venison and beer stew with salad, beer bread and pumpkin cupcakes.    That is such a good stew.    I remember when I couldn't make a stew to save my soul.     Dick and I bought the best stew meat and veggies.   I cooked it all up.   It looked beautiful but was totally tasteless.   It is the beer that saved me.

I do love feeding people.    This way, I could fix a stew.   Sent some home with them, could freeze some and still have a meal or two in the next week.

Bobbie brought me a jar of fresh lemon curd.    I must make some scones but it will taste good on the beer bread tomorrow morning.

So.  Time to get ready for bed.  Tomorrow will be busy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, this has been a very busy Tuesday.

To start with, is is trash day, so I had to get the last of that gathered and out to the pick up place.

Then I filled out a couple of forms and cleared a whole slew of "questions" off of my desk before calling Norton because of two charges for service.   I have that all squared away now.

Then I went to the post office to pick up the Condo mail, the Kettle Country Quilt club's meeting to turn in my placemats that we are donating to the Plymouth Meals on Wheels, then to church to drop off raffle tickets.

On my way to the grocery store, I stopped at Kate's to leave two local newspapers that had her picture in them.   She invited me for a cup of tea.   Nice visit and she also gave me a container of fresh cream of veggie soup.   I had that for my supper.  It was SO good.

I did the grocery shopping next and for my last errand, went to the Kettle Moraine Vet Clinic to get Roxie's supplement.

Whew.   I am glad I get to stay home tomorrow.   Still, as always, lots to do and Bobbie and Bill are coming for supper.    I will be putting a Venison Beer stew into the crock pot in the morning.    I love that stew.

So until later

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Dinner with Bobbie Bill and John Mc Givern

Yesterday was so busy and rather disjointed.    I went over to St. John's to peruse the annual Craft Fair.   It was even bigger than last year.   There were lots of people there, I hope it turned out to be a profitable venture for St. John's and all the crafters.

I bought $5.00 in raffle tickets and made a bid on a basket in the Silent Auction.   I did get the silent auction bid.    All of you will probably EVENTUALLY enjoy the fruits of it.   I have there mini-Christmas Cake pans.   SO CUTE.

Then I went home, did a few things and went to Mass at 3:30PM, picking up the bid that I had won on the way.   Took my friends Tom and Rita communion, fed Roxie and then drove to Grace Episcopal church to have dinner with Bobbie and Bill at the Friends of Mead dinner.   Bernie Markevitch prepared the meal which is always a treat.   Then we were entertained by John McGovern talking to us about his growing up days.   He is a total hoot.

Home again, I was just too tired to do anything but go to bed.   I did remember to change the clock that I look at.   It has really big numbers.   I got it for Dick so that if he woke up he could see it well.  

Today was much quieter.   I started writing St. Brigit's chapter and moved St. Anne's chapter from the laptop to the desktop so they are all together.  I went to Tom and Rita's to view a show that they wanted to share with me.

Then home and I just did a couple things like wrap and sort for the day.   It is now 8PM which was 9PM last night so I am feeling the sleepy coming on me.  

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Rain

It was a gloomy rainy day again.   I felt better today though.  

I got up at about 7:15AM.   Jody came to clean at 8AM. 

I had an appointment to have the car serviced and winterized at Van Horn's at 10AM.  Everything went well there.   There were friendly people in the waiting room.   I decided to have lunch at the Dairy Queen with the bank ladies.    Hadn't been there for three weeks so had a lot to catch up on.    A cheese burger tasted good too.

I spent the afternoon writing on the Saints book.   Got a lot done.

I was just thinking about warming something up for dinner when my friend, Nancy called.   She was going to the bust up party at Rhine and wondered if I would like to come along.    I figured, why not.   Got to see a lot of friends.  I believe I am healed enough to shoot in the winter league which starts on January 4th.

   Tomorrow morning I can work on the book again in the morning..   Then will be going to church to look at the big craft show.   After Mass I am meeting Bobbie and Bill at Grace Episcopal Church for the Friends dinner.

Sunday should be an at home day.  I will be ready for that by then.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Thursday

I didn't like today.    It was gloomy and made me very funky feeling.

I did attend a meeting at Holiday Inn Express on the changes in the AARP Medicare supplement that Mother and I both have.    I know they send these massive books with volumes of writing but it is so much more useful to be able to have the highlights pointed out to you.

I got home at noon and took a nap after lunch.   See, a gloomy day and I was beat.    I am still beat.   Tomorrow I have to do something to perk myself up.   I will be taking the car in for maintenance.  Maybe that will help.

I am working on St. Anne tonight.   I am behind now.   I wanted to have the first draft of her chapter done BY November 1st.   But I can adapt.   I have extended the deadline to Sunday.

So until tomorrow, perhaps I will be perkier.

Dia Dhuit

Mary


"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." St Augustine of Hippo

Home late - for me anyway.

Today was a day at home until tonight.    I got a lot done on the Saints book.    Tomorrow I will tackle another segment of the chapter on St. Anne.   She was supposed to be "easy" because there is not much documentation on her.   Sure!   It is terribly interesting though.   I want to finish her by Monday so that I can start on Brigid.    I have agreed to give a talk on Brigid on her feast day eve or the day for the Milwaukee branch.  Her feast day is February first so I want to have her done by the end of the year.   Once I have things in perspective, I can talk about her.   Unlike Anne, there are a lot of traditions connected with her.   Though Anne is revered in many cultures because of her status at the mother of Mary and the grandmother of Jesus.

Tonight I went over to 52 Stafford to enjoy the music at 7:00.  Next time I will go at 7:30 which is when the music officially starts.   Peg and Bob Feider joined me with some friends and Kath Schemrich and her husband David were there also and a friend from Wells, Sandy.  I always send out notice to the Celtic Women when I go.  But if nobody comes, I just have a glass or two of wine and enjoy the music.  They let me sing a song during the sets which makes me very happy as I think of my Dad and how he loved the Irish music and would have been right up there singing too.

This was a special night with all the friends there.

So now it is after 10PM and you know what an early to bed gal I am.

Until tomorrow.  I have an appointment in the morning and then want to work on St. Anne again.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Cold

It was COLD this morning.    Bed felt really good, but I got up at about 7:30AM so that I could be ready to leave for bible study.    I also stopped by the city drop off with a couple of bags of weeds and tomato plants that I had cleaned out of my gardens.   It was a busy place this morning. Guess lots of other people got busy this weekend.

We had a pretty full group at bible study.    Please keep praying for Helen's husband.   He is getting antibiotics four times a day but at least is out of intensive care and Helen said that the doctor told her that things are looking good.  We are still at the beginning of ACTS and discussed the part that tells of the very early days when everybody was pooling their resources and taking care of everybody from the pool with kindness and the love of Jesus.    As we discussed, even then it only worked for a while.   Eventually human nature seems to always goof up the very best of intentions.   Somebody feels that they are not getting their share, or that they are working and someone else is just sitting around or somebody wants to be in charge.   The glow of good intentions fades and somehow it just doesn't work.   We remember times in our life when all seemed perfectly balance, the love of God, family, work, whatever - Perfect - but we are always in a state of "living" and things change.  

One only needs to  remember that if you keep coming back to the good, it all works out.  Love is the most important thing.

Enough of my preaching.

Mom was fine.   We got her bills paid and discussed the Deeley family tree of Grandpa Mike's brother John.   She was able to clear up a bit but much the dates that I do have were before she and Dad were together.

Home again.   I finished clearing up from Samhain.   You see, a bag of things that I had brought to IBAM, came home with my friends, Dick and Joan.   So I had all of that to go through and put into their proper places.

Dancing with the Stars tonight.   I have missed so many, but tonight I can really be involved.   I have to really pay attention, or I miss the dances, then I feel I shouldn't vote.

I was going to sweep leaves off the deck this afternoon, but when I looked out, God sent to wind to do it for me.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Samhain Sunday

The sun was shining, it was chilly, but not windy.    By the time late afternoon came, it was in the mid 50s and quite nice.

I worked this morning on Condo stuff, and ancestry.   Then after lunch I prepared the colcannon for the Samhain Dinner with my CWI friends this evening.

We started gathering at about 4PM.   There ended up being an even dozen people around the table.   We enjoyed wine and/or coffee/or tea while we caught up with old friends and introduced ourselves to new.   The food, as in all potlucks, was exceptional.   Good harvest foods.   The colcannon, a veggie casserole full of fresh veggies, a harvest soup, a potato casserole, fresh wheat bread, scones and for dessert an apple bar, a pumpkin bar and a cheesecake.    Anybody who went home hungry had noone to blame but themselves.  This is a fun annual event.    I should have thought to invite you all.   I carved a rutabaga into a Jack O Lantern and them read the legend to the attendees.    I have a nice container of rutabaga for my veggie this week and the Jack O Lantern will last until then.  

In case you don't know the legend of the Jack O Lantern, I will end with it.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The tale—and there are variations—is of a no-good drunkard named Stingy Jack who invited the Devil to have a drink.
Stingy Jack, not wanting to pay, convinced the Devil to turn himself into a coin so he could pay the barkeep.
The Devil did so, and Stingy Jack promptly dropped the coin into his pocket, where he also kept a silver cross, which prevented the Devil from retaking his original form.
In order to free himself, the Devil promised to leave Stingy Jack alone for a year and to swear he would not take Jack’s soul upon death.
A year later, Jack again tricked the Devil. This time, Jack convinced the Devil to climb a tree to fetch an apple. Jack trapped the Devil in the tree by carving a cross into its trunk.
The Devil promised to leave Jack alone for 10 years so Jack would free him from the tree.
Time passed and Jack died. Because of his ne’er-do-well lifestyle, though, Jack was turned away from Heaven. The Devil, remembering Jack’s tricks, kept his promise and wouldn’t claim his soul.
Banished to walk the world as a spirit trapped between life and death, Jack was given one burning coal to light his way. Forlorn, he placed the coal inside a hollowed out turnip and was left to wander for all eternity.
Stingy Jack soon became known as Jack of the Lantern. The name was eventually shortened to Jack O’Lantern, and the Irish and Scottish began the custom of carving scary faces into turnips or potatoes to decorate their doors and windows in order to ward off evil spirits.
The tradition made its way to the United States and soon pumpkins—larger and easier to carve—replaced potatoes and turnips as Halloween’s most notable decoration.

More from New Orleans

A Memorial in one of the St. Louis Cemeteries.

Street Musicians

The St. Louis Cathedral  I went to Mass on Saturday evening here.

More street musicians

It was pretty easy to feel comfortable in the French Quarter of New Orleans with all the music and food smells and friendly people.  

Today was a pleasant day.   The sun was out most of the day but it was cold and kind of breezy.   The wind was really really loud last night.  
I was home all morning working on some writing then at 1PM, I went over to Reed Street for the dedication of two houses by the Plymouth Historical status.   One was on Reed, then the second dedication was my friends, Ron and Kate Herman's lovely home.   There were articles in the Plymouth Review about it.    Kate, as usual had to be the perfect host, she is a wonder, and had cake and punch for the people who came to hear the dedication.   She had a beautiful cake made with the house pictured on it.    It was absolutely perfect and tasted wonderful.

After that I went to Mass.   Home again, I am here until tomorrow at 4PM when the annual CWI Samhain pot luck will be celebrated.   I have no idea how many people are coming.  Haven't heard from many but we will see.   I am making Colcannon at any rate and I LOVE that.

So. another day done.   My headaches are coming back.   I am not very happy about that.   Well, maybe it is just an adjustment thing.

Dia Dhuit

Mary 

Louisiana near New Orleans

Look at this beautiful old tree I loved whole avenues of them

Alligator on the Bayou Tour

The Bayou - A new beauty for me

"Gator Bait"  Think about it.

He greeted me with joy at the Aquarium


More tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Gators, Leslie, Bill and me

Me holding Baby Alligator

Bill with Same Alligator.   The gator liked me best.

Leslie feeding goats at the Gators and More place.

I have decided to post a couple of pictures every day for a while of my trip south.

These were at the Gater and More place.   I should send the one of me sliplining over the gater pond.   Tomorrow.  The only way you will know it is me is because of the green pants.

Today I had to go and get the permanent filling put in my tooth.    It only took about a half an hour including the drive.   Everything was fine with the xray and Dr. Tim just had to dig out, smooth and fill.    He has a clingy kitty too.    His snores very loudly.   My Roxie has a very lady like snore.

My desk is finally down to a managable level again.   It is amazing how things pile up when there is noone EVEN HERE.   But they do.    I also am caught up on my wash and general cleaning.    Tomorrow I will also be home most of the day so can write and continue cleaning.

I sure wish I could find a home for Dick's desk.   I have to get this carpet cleaned and will have to do it twice if the desk is not gone and things are not rearranged.

Til Tomorrow
Dia Dhuit

Mary

Under the Oaks and a carved tree

 

 

I was home all day today.  It was so nice.    Tomorrow I have to go to the dentist.  I tried to sleep in this morning but the yard people started trimming bushes and trees very loudly at about 7:30, so that became impossible.

Nothing too exciting today.   My  desk is clearing.   I made some green tomato/bacon soup with the green tomatoes left on my plants, and some cranberry scones with fresh cranberries that my neighbor gave to me.  

After the dentist, I will catch up on the desk work so that I can get back to my book.   I was able to do some while I was at Leslie's but need to get busy if I want to stay on my schedule of one saint a month.

So til tomorrow.

I am going to send a couple of pictures of the trip.

Dia Dhuit

Mary




Robert Bridges wrote the lines:
My delight and thy delight
Walking, like two angels white,
In the gardens of the night:

My desire and thy desire
Twining to a tongue of fire
Leaping live, and laughing higher;
Thro' the everlasting strife
In the mystery of life.

I am home save and sound.   I arrived at the door at about midnight and it took a couple of hours before I was able to settle down enough to sleep.

I got up at about 7:30AM and spent my time at home today putting things away and starting the wash.   I went to see Mom at about 10:30AM.    Wanted to be there at abut that time because I could check her bills etc and keep her on her lunch schedule and let her get her after lunch nap.

She looks beautiful.   She seemed a bit tired and is so frustrated because of her sight problems. 
When I got home, I ate lunch myself then went to the grocery store.   I had to.   Roxie had just enough canned food for tonight.    Now I won't have to go anywhere until Thursday.   Yea.

Tomorrow I am going to upload my pictures to the computer and will start putting some of them on the Blog.   I had SUCH  a good time.    You know most of what I did with Leslie and Bill.   

I went on a city/cemetery tour and a bayou tour in New Orleans.   I attended a Cooking School and toured the Aquarium.   I went to Mass at the St. Louis Cathedral and I at at Emeril's restaurant Nola.

It was great.  But I am so glad to get home to my sweet Roxie.   Thank you, Bobbie and Bill for having her here for me.   She was glad to see me and we have been catching up on petting and such.

Til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary