Happy New Year!!!!!

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am frustrated with my inertia these days.   

Today, at least,  I finished the "President's Challenge" for the 2017 Quilt Guild Quilt Show (read carefully).   All I have to do is attach a label.

It was in the 50s but the wind was wicked.   There are fire warnings all over and fires here and there.   Living in town, I don't have to worry about that but remember these problems in California at times.

How sad for Todd Fisher to lose his Mom and Sister so close together.    We must pray for him.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This is a very quiet week, this last week of the year.

I have been invited to Bart and Barb's for New Year's Day.    Will go to Mass on New Years Eve and spend the rest of the evening quietly with just Nicky and me.

I have been working on a quilting project, but my hands ache so it is going slowly.   Good thing I don't have an impending deadline.

Tomorrow will also be quiet.   Weather is supposed to stay nice through New Year's day.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A whole day at home.   Nobody here but Nicky and Me.  This was a bit odd as it is easy to get used to people in the house:)

I took my time with everything.   I worked on the President's Challenge wall hanging that I am doing for the Wichita Mountain Quilt Show in February.   I should finish by the weekend. 

It was a pleasant day with a lot of sunshine.  The warmth is supposed to continue at least through the New Year.

Talked to Richard and Brenda tonight.  They are fine and I always enjoy our talks.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was like a second Christmas today as Jim and Michelle and her brother (also a Jim) came and spent the day and dined with me. 

Thanks, Barb, for leaving dessert and for stopping by.  

I served a repeat of lasagna, salad, garlic bread and Barb's famous blackberry cobbler.

What a lovely visit,  Leslie called in the afternoon so got to talk to Jim and Michelle.  I love family.   Wish we were not so scattered around this wonderful country.

As I said, and Leslie agreed, we need to establish a DATE at a time that is fairly safe to drive from EVERYWHERE to have a family gathering.  It will be HERE at my place.  Which is somewhat central when we are dealing with Wisconsin, California, Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Anyway, it was a great visit.   Too long since the last one and it was nice to meet Michelle's brother.  We got all caught up and won't let that much time pass again.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A nice warm though off and on misty Christmas Day.    It was quite pleasant when Nicky and I took our walk.   No wind and very mild.

Before going to Mass I assembled the lasagna for our dinner.   I was on as usher at Mass this morning.   I was surprised that the church was not full to the rafters, perhaps everybody came last night to midnight mass.   It was a lovely mass at any rate.

Home again, Bret and I talked.   He is home in California with their little family.  So I am happy for him and always SO good to hear his voice.

Marlies, Bart, Barb, Tim, Amber and little Augie arrived shortly after 2PM and we had out dinner.   It was really good.   Barb brought salad and blackberry cobbler to accompany the lasagna and garlic bread.    I had not make lasagna for a couple of years and was pleased that it cam out tasting as I remembered.  Whew!

Nicky was a good boy.   He knew Bart, Barb and Marlies aa he likes kids, Augie was a pleasure to him.   He decided that Amber and Tim were OK too.   I loved having a toddler in the house.   What else is Christmas for.

Jim and Michelle and her brother, Jim will be here tomorrow.   Will have a repeat of today for menu.   Why mess with a good thing.

It will be good to see them.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Dia DHuit

Mary

It was rather misty when Nicky and I took our walk this morning but cleared up nicely and got into the upper 40s so a good day overall.

I made the sauce for the lasagna today.   Am so looking forward to Christmas dinner.

I went to Bart and Barb's for supper tonight.  I know people don't use the word supper much any more, but that is what we had, not a big meal, just a nice light supper and an evening WITH people.

Tomorrow evening we will be at Adam and Lexie's for a Christmas Eve Santa Exchange.   Should be fun.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A whole day at home.

I baked my Mom's famous Christmas Wreath stollan today.   Boy is it good.   Mine are not as pretty as Mom's but you can't beat the taste.

Leah came this evening to clean the house for Christmas too, so I am getting there.   Tomorrow I will make the sauce for the lasagna.   That will give it a good time for the flavors to meld together.

Barb and I decided that we will be eating between 1 and 2 on Christmas.   We both will be home from church between 11:30 and 12 so that will work out well.   Sure hope the weather stays warm.   There are supposed to be storms but I hope that won't hinder out travelers.

Anyway, only two more days.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Things have warmed up considerably, but I am still cold.   I am sure it has something to do with the joint aches.

I made my Lizzies today.   This is, for those of you who do not know, a cookie that Mother made that is my favorite.  It is almost like a fruitcake cookie and So good.   You start by soaking raisins in whisky so if one doesn't like whisky , it probably isn't for you.   But I love them and will share.


I also have pretty much finished my Christmas Cards.  If you don't get one from me, please don't think that I don't love you:)   I just missed.   I have a call in to one friend who I seem to have lost his address.   I don't usually send cards to people that I will see.   This goes back to my ex mother in law Lily Johnston.  That was her plan and I like it.

I do write a Christmas Poem every year and try to share it with everybody.   If you did not get it, let me know.

Dia Dhuit

Mry

Another COLD day, though it did get up in to the low 30s here.    However, we are moving into the 50s and 60s between now and Christmas.    As a matter of fact it is supposed to be in the 60s on Christmas.   Chance of storms but no ice or snow storms or extreme cold.  SO I am so looking forward to our Jim and Michelle being here for the Christmas Lasagna:)

Everybody should have gotten their cheese today.  I got my order (which includes Bart and Barb's if they read this)   I also received presents from Bret and Janett and from Richard and Brenda which I will not open the wrapped things until Christmas.  (Love the shawl, Bret and Janett).

I saw Dr. Toy today and he says I am "Healed".   That means that I should schedule as I feel out of sync and do not need a weekly  appointment.   Good.

Spent the morning doing Christmas Cards.   Still have a small group but feel that I really made headway.  My dear ex mother in law Lily had the theory that if you saw someone, you did not need to send a card.  You could personally wish that Merry Christmas.  I like that theory.

Got a call from my Vikki today.   Wish I could spend a bit of time with her.  Now that Rhonda has passed, she feels so alone.  I am so happy that her son and daughter are so close to her and she has beautiful grandchildren that she dotes on. 

Also talked to my Suzi, my niece through Dick Kunert.   She and I want to go to Wales together.  I needed some "facts' from her and wanted to hear her voice.   Am I blessed or WHAT to have all these nieces and relatives all over the place that LIKE me.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi Everybody.

I had a communication problem yesterday, but, after talking to Richard and Brenda, have it all resolved again.

My friends, Joan and Richard Kramer, were here yesterday.   Joan is a member of my CWI group.  I do miss my friends in Wisconsin.  Joan did a reflexology treatment for me which has me so relaxed AND I have the prettiest feet in the world.

We went to the Museum of the Great Plains and then out to dinner.  It was an altogether wonderful day.   We had the BEST visit.  They are on their way to Arizona for a vacation.  I will miss them, even after only one day.

Today, I went to Mass in the morning and then spent the rest of the day just regrouping.

A relatively quiet week ahead.  So I can get ready for the busy Christmas weekend.

Bless you all.  Pray for safe travel for my friends.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I can now officially relax for Christmas as I have sent the packages of candy and etc.   It took almost an hour to get through the line.   I knew this as I had gone last week to pick up packaging and even then the line was awful.   The postal people were really nice, they used to be kind of grouchy but no longer, at least in Lawton. 

I saw Dr. Toy today too.  He is getting me in shape after my fall.

My friend Joan will be here tomorrow and is going to do a reflexology treatment on me.   I can hardly wait.  I know that this will be of great benefit as the cold is coming back in.

Next week, is very quiet for me.   I will be able to finish my Christmas cards and prepare for the holy day and the family gathering.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Was such a lovely day.  Colder than the gates of hell but a lovely day.

I drove to Duncan, my first time, with Robbi and Curtis from the Celtic Club.   Our member Loretta had made arrangements for us to tour the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center there to find out about Celts on the Chisholm Trail.   We got the full tour.   It is a marvelous heritage center with two movie presentations, many many displays, some interactive, some very representative of the time.    They also have a very impressive large art gallery.  

Got home at about 4:30PM.   There was a penance service at Holy Family and I had decided that I was going.  Robbi went with me.  It is nice to have someone with me at church. 

I finished wrapping the packages for mailing and will take them to the post office tomorrow after I see Dr. Toy.   Then my deadlines are met and I can relax.

It is supposed to get up to 70 degrees tomorrow and then drop like a rock on Saturday.  We may even get a dusting of snow on Saturday.  This has been a strange beginning of winter - temps like a roller coaster.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am winding down this evening with a piece of Bobbie's Angel Food Candy.   WOW.
It was a busy day.   I went to the Wednesday Mass and then on to our final bible study of the year.   We are done until January 4th.
 Home again, I took care of my daily errands then went to see Dr. Toy for an adjustment.  I am better but the want s to see me on Friday to be sure that I am holding.

I did my grocery shopping after I left him,

I am exhausted.

Tomorrow is the Christmas Celtic meeting.  We are going out to Duncan to go to the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center,  We are goint to have a presentation on the Celts on the Chisholm Trail.

Dia Dhiut
Mary

\

Just got back from Writer's Club.   We had a small Christmas party and will not meet again until January 10th.

Our anthology is available on Amazon Kindle at http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MXXNMDJ 

It is called Aerie of Assembled Works by O.W.L.S.   and costs $2.99.   I have a short story and 5 poems in the book.  Hope you will buy, critique and spread the word.

Spent most of the earlier part of the day getting packages ready to mail.

Two more Christmas parties to go:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Today was a busy day of what is turning out to be a very busy week.    This morning, I finished the baking for the Christmas packages.   This afternoon, Bart and I went out and about to do several errands.   Then this evening was the Wichita Mountain Quilters Christmas Party.

I picked up Barb at about 6PM for that.  One of our members hosted at her home and it was a potluck.  I brought cranberry bread.   It was lots of fun.    We played a couple of fun games and exchanged presents.   It was a takeaway exchange which does get fun, but the highlight of the night was the very last gift.   It was an "adult" coloring book and just watching the three gals on the couch checking it out - page by page:) was worth the whole evening.  

Had a great time.  

Tomorrow night is the writer's club meeting.  

We are all bringing something to share also.   Should be fun too.

Dia DHuit

Mary

A nice Sunday.   The cold spell has lessened.   It is still cold but not in the 20s or teens.

I went to the 8:30AM Mass.

When I got home, I baked cranberry bread.    Now I am ready for this week of Christmas gatherings for all of my "groups".  All of them will be suspended until after the first of the year.

Tomorrow I will bake the Hello Dollys and then be ready to get packages ready to mail.

Jim and Michelle and her brother, Jim, will be here for Christmas barring an ice storm.  So that is ONE package I won't have to mail.

Sure am looking forward to seeing my boy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just came back from a Christmas Party potluck at Bart and Barb's church.   I really enjoyed myself a lot.    Good good.   An evening out.   Hung out with nice people.  AND my first Christmas Party in Oklahoma.

I am tired so going to bed.

Dia Dhuit
Mary



Oops forgot to publish last night.

Mary

Whew   What a busy day.

I had Bible Study at 10AM this morning and had to be home by noon because a friend of Marlise, Bob, was coming over to see about installing my grab bars in the bathrooms.   

They got here at about 12:45 and I had to leave at five to two for my chiropractor appointment with Dr. Toy.    He got two installed and found that I needed two of another size, so he is coming back in the morning to finish.

Dr. Toy did some work on my back and neck and I am kind of a mess.   The fall did not do me any good.  I will go back next week to be sure that I am stabilized again.   He takes good care of me.

This evening I went to Mass.   Tomorrow is a holy day,  the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.   We are supposed to go to Mass on holy days as well as Sundays.   I decided that I would rather go to this vigil mass than tomorrow.  It was interesting.  A mixture of Spanish and English.  I loved it.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Cold again today.  

Actually, no matter what I did, I was cold until I went to writer's club.   For some reason, the
Cameron building was warm.   Which is a good thing.  I hate to go to bed cold.

The writer's club was interesting.  We will have our anthology available next week sometime as a Kindle on Amazon.   I will send all the details as soon as it is online.   I am excited as I have a short story and several poems in the work.   We had a couple of good reads also.

Bart and I went shopping for grab rails for my bathroom, then the guy, a friend of Marlies, said he should come to check what I need first.   No big deal.   He and Marlies will be here tomorrow and if I don't have the right thing, I will take them back and get what I DO need.

He also took me out to the grocery store.   We had lunch at Arby's - I was hungry for a Rueben.   He said they had them and it was not bad.

So a busy day and another scheduled for tomorrow.

Yea.   I hate too many days without stuff to do.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is cold and going to be cold for the next week or so.  Aren't we blessed to have warm homes to live in?

I was home all day.   Put up some more Christmas decorations and wrapped some presents.

Tomorrow, I am going to Wichita Falls with Bart, he has some errands there and they have a good grocery story:)

My wrist and my other joints have been really sore this afternoon.  Must be the cold and damp.

Til next time.   Take care of yourselves.

Dia dhuit

Mary

My very FIRST time as an usher at church.   It was an adventure.  Everybody was very helpful.   Lots of tiny details but not too bad.   I was listed as "Head Usher" which would have set me into a panic except that there are only four of us and it is just a matter of greeting people before mass and then several chores during the service itself.

I had dinner along with Marlies at Bart and Barb's.   How nice to eat a meal and spend an evening with people to talk to.     It gets much too quiet of an evening here.

So another week begins.   Not much scheduled but I have several goals that I want to accomplish.

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, my Abby got sick last night and couldn't come to spend the day with me.   I was SO disappointed.   Didn't do too much.    Worked a bit on Christmas as I am trying to figure out what to do in this new home.  

How much do I WANT to do.   It is mainly for myself.    So only I can determine that:)

Tomorrow, I will be an usher at church for the first time.   I will probably meet more people that way.  

Dia DHuit

Mary

In the 30's again this morning.  It is colder during the days too.  We are having rain tonight, much needed.

I was busy today mostly at home.  I baked some scones, went to the store and did some bookwork again.

Tomorrow, Abby is coming over to spend the day with me.  This is Barb's son, Adam's youngest, my step grandaughter.   We have plans for the day.  I wrote a children's book several years ago and she is illustrating it for me.   FUN!!

She is quite the girl.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was 30 degrees this morning when Nicky and I went out for our walk.   No wind so it was not too bad as I bundled up.  I think Nicky liked it.    His friend, doggie Mustang, was out across the street with his owner, Sondra.   

Aside from dog walks, I did not have to leave the house all day.    I worked on the "books",  my supplemental insurance for next year, sorting things for Christmas.    A little at a time and it will all get done.    I have three of my creches up now.

My wrist feels better.    I had to call to find out how long I should wear the splint.   The directions that I got for care were great except for that.    Actually as I was getting ready to call, they called me to see how I was doing.   I found that VERY reassuring.   I have to wear it for a week and then as needed for comfort.     I am putting ice on it a couple times a day just for the good feeling of it. Can't hurt anyway.

I have started taking tumeric as a supplement to help arthritis on the suggestion of one of my Oklahoma Celtic friends.   I do believe that it is helping:)   I'll keep you posted.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Things are starting to cool down here, at least at night.   It is supposed to be in the 30's tomorrow morning but temps are getting up into the 50s or 60s during the days.

I went to mass and bible study today.    That is always a good way to spend the morning.   We are close to 20 people in the study so the discussions can get quite lively.   We are back on Psalms for the winter.   Did Psalms with the Blessed Trinity group but we used a different study guide.  Both of the studies select representative Psalms  - one doesn't do them all- some are the same as my previous study, so I am trying to incorporate.

Went grocery shopping on my way home. 

I bought another TV on Saturday.    I decided that I really wanted one in my bedroom.   With all those years with Dick, who had the TV on all night, I found that I was often sleeping in the guest room so I could leave the TV in the office on for the noise.    I figure that I am worth it.

Tomorrow, no appointments, no obligations.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The night before last, I tripped (in the house) and sprained my wrist.    I did not think it was sprained until I woke up during the night in pain.   I finally went to Urgent Care yesterday afternoon and had it xrayed.   Just a sprain but I am pretty black and puffy.   It is my left wrist.    Don't ask me how it happened.  You all know that I am usually thinking five feet ahead of where I actually am.   I need to slow down and watch where I put my feet:)

I am still icing and will be wearing a splint for a bit.  I find that I am really tired and it took a lot out of me.     I am thinking of precautions and safety measures. 

Aside from that.  I have make the buckeyes, so everybody can relax.  They keep well refrigerated and that is why I usually make them early.  

It is getting cooler here but is still quite comfortable.  We have not had a freeze.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A great day.   The temps are a bit colder but it was sunny and not windy so easy to cope with.

I had a nice conversation with the Smiths, including Sara and her John and Matthew and with Nora who is visiting them for the Thanksgiving weekend.

So good to hear their voices and catch up a bit.

Then I drove over to Bart and Barb's for schnitzel dinner.  It was scrumptious.  Tim, Amber and little Augie were up and Lexie and the girls were there.   Also Marlies.   An altogether lovely day.

AND I am exhausted.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A rather busy day.    The low tire pressure gauge showed up on my  monitor a few days ago.  Bart  helped me to make sure that the tires were as they should be but it took forever for the light to go out.
I made an appointment for the guage  to be checked after a couple of days and , OF COURSE, this morning the warning light was out.  I went anyway, just to be sure.   All is OK and they did not charge me.   I will definitely to to them when i am ready to replace my car.

Barb's son Tim and his family will be in town tomorrow and I will be having dinner with them.   It will be nice to see little Augie again.  As it was to see Jackson and his sister on Thanksgiving.   The little people are what we are all about.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Happy Thanksgiving.   

It was a beautiful day in Oklahoma.   Sunny and in the upper 60s to low 70s.

The dinner at Adam and Lexie's was excellent.   We had turkey (cooked two ways - Adam actually cooks one in oil.   Very good - this was the first time I had one cooked that way.)   We also had ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, yams, apple dumplings, yeast dumplings with LOTS of gravy, red cabbage and two cranberry relishes.    Also breads and I cannot even begin to list the desserts.

There were close to 20 people there,   Some I had met before and some new to me.   A very agreeable group of people.    It was lots of fun.   

They are hosting a Secret Santa Party on Christmas eve too.    We drew names and will bring a present that has to be new and cost $25. for our person.    I don't really know this person very well, but Bart and Barb can help me there.

Nicky was sure glad that I came home.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This was a quiet day.  I went over to see Bart this morning.  He helped me get my tires inflated equally.

The rest of the day was spent baking. I made the figgy hobbin and the pumpkin pies for dinner tomorrow.  I am looking forward to the gathering.

Talked to my brother George and a couple of friends today so don't feel so lonely.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Just got home from Writer's Club.   We are working on publishing an anthology on Amazon of our member's collective works.    Should be available for Kindle next week, just in time for Christmas.

It was a really lovely day.  Temps in the 60s, not windy and sunny.  I mixed up my pie crust dough today so that I can make the pies for Thanksgiving.  I am making pumpkin pies and Figgy Hobbin.   I probably told you that already.

I worked on the president's challenge wall hanging that I am assembling for the Wichita Mountain Quilt Guild Show in February.  I have six butterflies to finish and attach.   I need to give them some pizazz.


Dia Dhuit
Mary


"The best thing to hold on to in life is each other."   Audrey Hepburn

I got a bit lazy about posting over the weekend.   Nothing exciting happening anyway.

I just keep plugging away at various projects and trying to keep myself busy.    It is best that way.

This last week was SO busy.   I did not have one whole day without an appointment.   I had hoped to hear the results of my gall bladder scan on Friday, but no such luck.

I will call them Tuesday if I have not heard.

This coming week is Thanksgiving.   I will be going to Adam and Lexie's for their annual Thanksgiving day dinner and bringing pumpkin pies, figgy hobbin and cranberry relish for my share of the bounty.  Glad to be with family.    I will miss Bobbie, Bill, Richard and Brenda.   We always had such good dinners. Though they have become small.  Our family has scattered like the wind.    I remember cooking for 13 or more for the holiday dinners.

Today was opening deer gun season in Wisconsin.   Haven't heard how the first day went.    I assume my prayers for safety worked as bad news travels fast.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

    

I went to lunch at the Center for Creative Living, a PALS luncheon.  I don't know what that is exactly but I had a good meal and good companionship.  Yes, my children, I talked to everybody.

Had a couple of other errands. So am pretty well caught up on life.

Jeff called this morning.   The Gun Deer Hunting seasons starts tomorrow.   Please keep the hunters, my brothers, nephews, nieces, grandnephews, brothers in laws.  etc in you prayers for a SAFE and successful hunt.

I miss them all and the camaraderie and closeness with God's earth,   I do not miss the cold and achy bones. 

Prayers for a successul hunt.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I had a busy day.   This morning I was scheduled for a scan of my gall bladder.  This is the longest scan  in the WORLD.   The initial scan is  an hour then they give your M & Ms.   (Yes M & Ms.) and make you wait for a half an hour then do a quicky scan.    I got there at 9:30AM and left at about noon.

Home again, I found out that my Celtic Member who was going to do a  presentation was sick.  So I went to the meeting with my wall hangings of Celtic Saints and some stories and we did fine.
I love our group.   Next month Loretta and Charles have arranged for us to to to the Heritage Center in Duncan - Free of Charge_ to learn about the Celts on the Chisholm Trail.   I am so delighted that our members are so talented.   The gal who was unable to perform still wants to do her talk.  What more can we ask.?

A mildly busy day tomorrow, but I can relax a bit.   I will probably be a mom to Bart and
Barb's critters over the weekend as they have a weekend trip planned.   Keeps me busy and I like their critters:)

Dia Dhuit
Mary

"In my world , everyone's  a pony and they all eat rainbows and poop butterflies."   Dr. Suess.

It was a busy day. 

The temperatures were up in the 80's.  Unseasonably hot for this time of year, but nice to live with.

I went to the 9AM Mass and then to the Holy Family Bible Study.   We are studying Psalms for a bit now.   I did a study of Psalms with my Blessed Trinity group too.  We used a different study guide which makes me happy because I will get a different slant and probably different psalms, though , I checked and some are the same psalms anyway.  I hope this stands our group with good insights.   I DO love the Psalms.  They are so beautiful.

This afternoon I had a local investment appointment, so my financial plan is pretty much in order.

Now I just need to maintain and keep on a livin' :)

I am having yet another test tomorrow morning.  Please pray for me.   Just let them come up with SOME diagnosis.  I have never in my life spent this much time trying to find out what is wrong with me.



Dia Dhuit
Mary

When God closes a door, He opens another. But it’s hell in the hallway.

Just got home from Writer's Club.    We are assembling an anthology of short stories and poems as a Kindle book on Amazon so our meeting was mainly the logistics (fonts, titles, bios) of that tonight as we are hoping to have it out by Thanksgiving.   I missed last week so was not aware that we were aiming for that soon.   I will let you know when it is available.

The earlier part of the day was mainly at home.  Leah came to clean this morning.  I baked cupcakes for the Celtic Meeting on Thursday.   After lunch I went grocery shopping.  I forgot MILK.   But I have everything I need for my Christmas baking.    Don't worry,   buckeyes and fudge are on the list.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from the Wichita Mountain Quilt Guild meeting.    Picked up Barb shortly after 6PM.   It was a good meeting.   I enjoy the members and their enthusiasm so much.  We will be having or bi-annual quilt show.   Things are really gearing up now as it is scheduled for the weekend of February 17th.   I am not entering a quilt for judging, but am offering some of my quilt hangings and Aunt Helen's Flower Garden quilt for display.

Anybody want to come?   You can stay with me:)   We will be displaying the members quilts that will be judged and given awards, a silent auction, a drawing for a king sized quilt and a drawing for an American Girl doll with tons of and made outfits and other things.

Should be very exciting.

I spent much of the day sewing and making appointments. 

Tomorrow will be busy also.   Leah comes to clean, I must shop and have Writer's Club in the evening.

I did get up and take pictures of the moon at a bit after five.  The fog came in shortly afterwards so I timed it right.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from dinner with Bart and Barb.   Barb fixed a new dish.   She used grated cauliflower in place of rice in a casserole.     It was a definite success.   As rice is difficult for her to digest this will work very well.

I went to the 8:30AM mass this morning then drove back to church at about noon for a goodbye reception for Dallas Gambron, our now past music director.   He has accepted a position in Florida so we are in need of a music director if you know of one who would like to apply:)

Dallas was one of the first church people that I got to meet and know by name after Masses at the coffee and donut gathering after  the 8:30AM Masses.     I will miss him.  Got to meet his wife and children today too.   I had seen them but they have usually gone to the 11AM mass so I never had to occasion to meet her before. 

I am planning on getting up to see the super moon at 5:30AM or so.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a beautiful day.  Rather chilly,  I don't think it got over 60, but it was sunny and not at all humid so I liked it.

I was home all day except for going over to the local Hallmark store because I had $22 in credit and decided to stock up on birthday cards.   

I fixed a couple of things around the house that I thought I might have to get someone in to do.  I feel very smug about that as it would have cost me money to have someone to  do them.

Nothing else exciting. I did run into my neighbor and we talked a bit.  Please pray for her husband Ron, who is in need of surgery and they are very slow in scheduling.  He is in a lot of pain.  

Bless you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I finally had two days without any outside the home obligations.  It has been nice.

I finally got back to doing the hand quilting on the quilt that I want to put on my bed in place of the flannel/denim quilt.   I also worked on the President's Challenge for the Quilt Guild.

Today was laundry day and I found that I was actually behind.  But now I am all caught up and back on schedule.   Schedules do help:)

Please pray.   Bart has someone checking his back to see if there a new procedure would help him with the pain.   A few days for test results.

I am sickened that there is ANY violence in our streets as a result of the election results.   Pray for sanity.

Comment:   Houses no longer have bread boards.   Do you even know that that is?    I have been going crazy trying to figure out where to clamp my meat grinder ( do you know what THAT is.)   I finally found the perfect spot.   I need it to properly prepare the Deeley Cranberry Relish.  Can't have Thannkgiving without that wherever I am.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

I baked a loaf of Irish Brown Bread today.    I DO like my own bread.

Dick was not as thrilled with it as it is sometimes a bit heavy, but I LIKE it.

I remember that my boys liked good old Wonder Bread.   I used to tell them that it was just paste:)  Take a slice and squish it in your hand and you have nothing but a gummy blob.

Bible study, after Mass, today.   It was animated.  Some discussions are hard to cope with but at least I know that these women have all gone through life experiences and we all have a right to our own opinions.

How about TRUMP.  Many of you, I am sure, are disappointed.   I spent an hour yesterday praying at our parish vigil before I went to vote.   I voted my conscience and can do no more than that.   Now we need to have faith in the system and God.   I was impressed with the acceptance speech that Trump gave.   He sounded like an adult.  I was also impressed with Hilary's grace and our president's acknowledgment of the choice that has been made.

God bless the United States of America.

Dia Dhuit

Mary  

Finally - Election night.  

I spent an hour this morning as part of a 24 hour vigil at Holy Family Parish for the safety and strength of our nation.   We are in such a turmoil and I was glad to be part of the prayers for our welfare.

Then I voted.

Now I am going to bed with the TV on to hopefully be aware when the race is decided.   I do not tell how I vote.   But I vote so that I can say that I had a voice in whatever happens.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This morning was ICKY.   I had a doctor's appointment at 9AM.  By the time I saw her and was on to the next  "adventure" (a lab test) it was almost 10AM.  By the time I got checked in and through with the lab test, it as almost 11PM.  What a waste of time.  I think the Comanche Memorial Medical group needs to do some efficiency studies.  

I apparently have some trouble with my gall bladder and have some plaque in my aorta so we are working on that.

The rest of the day was at home.  I was lazy.  I did some sewing and a bit of book work and took a nap.

Talked to Nora this evening.  Always a pleasure.  I love my sisters.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I went to 8:30AM mass.   When mass was over, it was pouring.   Fortunately, I had planned on stopping in the hall for coffee and food with my friends and by the time I left, it was still raining but had died down a lot.   So I was able to get to the car without drowning.

One of my church friends, Ben, will be gone from us after today.   He is in the service and has been transferred to a new assignment.   I will miss him.   A nice young man with a lovely family that I have not met but he talks of.

I also found out today that the choir director/organist has taken a new job and will be leaving for Florida this week.  Will miss Dallas (his name) also, we shared music and poetic interests in common.

Barbara's brother, Fred, is in town visiting so Barb invited me over for supper tonight.    We had the most delicious soup.  Barb is such a great cook.   A pleasant evening all around.   Bart's sciatic is really acting up so he was not able to sit out with us.   A shame.

Tomorrow I see the nurse practitioner and should get some results on why my stomach is hurting.  It has been a month, sure glad I was not deathly ill.

Dia DHuit

Mary


If someone tells you that you are putting too much peanut butter on your bread-------stop talking to them.   You don't need that kind of negativity in your life.    (Quote from a peanut butter site.)

It was a GOOD day. 

I imagine that tomorrow will be a bit goofy because of the change back to standard time.   As I read somewhere,  and American Indian said that only a white man would think that cutting off an end of a blanket and sewing it on to the other end would make it a longer blanket.   But we are stuck with it (except in Arizona). 

Richard and Brenda called this morning.  What a nice visit.   They have been busy with traveling for conferences etc and are kind of glad that they will be home for a while.    I would like that problem:)  Actually I like being here but wish I could travel more without feeling that I am letting my Nicky down.   I know he is happy at Bart and Barb's but is such a drama king when I come home that I feel bad for leaving him.

Bart called too so I was not alone today.    Barb's brother, Fred, is here so there is some family time involved there.

I worked on my new bedspread today.  It is still going to take forever, as I am hand quilting it, but I don't have deadlines.  The President's challenge for the Quilt Guild Show in February is coming along.  At least I I know that I can get it done.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was almost chilly today.  We had rain last night but none today.   Nate came and mowed, probably for the last time until spring.

I got a hair cut and stopped to see how Barb is doing.  She looks good.   A little sore from the removal of that pick line, but that too will heal.

Bret called tonight, he had his are doing well.   They will be going out to the river tomorrow morning early.

I do have a "situation"   A beautiful red bird is banging on the window in the living room.   He is quite pretty but very annoying. I took everything off of that windowsill, (almost killing myself in the process, as I stumbled getting off the couch and rolled to the ground.  Carpeted , thank the Lord.)   When someone is here, I am going to hand a wind chime up there to see if it will scare the creature away.

I miss that I cannot see the Clancy Brothers in this life again.  Thank God, their music lives on.

Dia Dhuit

Mary







Liam Clancy said this to Bob Dylan

The Irish means "Safe home, My Friend."

"Remember Bob,
NO FEAR,
NO ENVY,
NO Meanness."
     William Clancy
1 September 1935 -4December 2009

Slan abhaile a chara.

We had a bit of rain last night and it has finally cooled down a little bit.  

Nicky is mighty tired of me putting goop in his ears.   Only a day or so left.   When the bottle is empty, he is done.  He will be on pills for a while but he likes that as I give it to him in cream cheese.

Paid some bills today and worked on sewing projects and studying for Bible Study. (It pays to come prepared for that:))

I finally have someone here to inspect and clean the fireplace.   It has some deficiencies that I am having him take care of.   More than I had planned and some of them could have been postponed until next years cleaning, but I decided that Dick would have just said to get it right NOW.  It was hard enough to find someone to do the inspection and cleaning anyway.   He is quite good at explaining what he is seeing, with my background, such as it is.  It all made sense to me.

Barbara had her port removed today.   YEA!!!!! this means that they no longer feel that she has a need for it.   Another plateau reached.    Thanks for all the prayers.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a lovely day in the low 80s and not at all humid.  I was home until this evening.

My cleaning lady, Leah, came this morning so I have a nice clean home.   Always good and she is really nice.

This evening I went to the writer's club.   Bart came and helped me put the poems for an anthology that our group is doing onto a zip drive.    I have a short story also to be included but there aren't really poets in our group and they thought that perhaps a poem between each story for a bit of a break might be nice, so I gave them 5.  I thought that they all had to be about owls as our group is called  O.W.L S  (Oklahoma Writers Literary and Storytellers).    So I handed over 5 owl poems.   If they want more if we have more spacers needed, I will write about something else as I am about owled out:)

Bible Study tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Happy Halloween.

For the first time since we moved to Tall Grass, I had trick or treaters at my home.   It was fun.  Nicky barked but was quiet nice and everybody attributed his barking to the "Warning, Strange Dog" sign on the door:)

I was home most of the day.  I did got grocery shopping and picked up my Powerball ticket

Spent the rest of the day just cleaning the kitchen, making carrot pineapple salad and sewing. 

Tomorrow is All Saints Day, I will be going to Mass at noon.

Writers club tomorrow night.  Bart will come to help me download some writings to a zip drive.


Take care keep all those we love and  (those we don't love:)) in your prayers.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I had an interesting weekend.  Bart and Barb have returned from a  trip to Dallas with Adria and Abby to visit Barb's son Tim and his wife Amber and son Augie. 

That means that I take care of Bart and Barb's critters.   I let them out occasionally and then sleep there.  I feel that it is best for them to not be alone.   Nicky finds it rather odd, I am sure.

Nicky's ear looks much better and he is acting more like him all the time.   I have a week or more of pills and ear ointment before he is declared healthy again.  My poor little guy.   It is one of those occasions when Dick and I would come home from the Vet and say "Is he really worth THAT much?"  Of course, he is.   I HOPE you understand our humor. 

I talked to Jim and Michelle today.  He had his back surgery earlier in the week and then ended up BACK in the hospital because he was disoriented and not well at all.  He is home again and though in pain and tired doing well again.  Please pray for my boy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi.  Hope you missed me.  I did not really intent to not post but obviously I did not post.

I have been busy catching up on things I got behind on when I had company  (YEE HAA for company)   (Come back and I will LEARN how to keep on living), and when I was gone.

Bart dropped by this afternoon.  Always good to spend time with my kids.  We had a nice visit.   He will be spending time with his granddaughters, Abbie and Adria this weekend which means the world to him.

The main reason you did not hear from me is that my Nicky is sick.  He has an ear infection and is not happy with the treatment required.   When he did not want to go for his morning walk, I knew that he needed to see a veterinarian.    He has an ear infection and is generally run down from that.  Cost a fortune, but he is worth it.  The only creature that is ALWAYS there for me because he has no other obligations.

Please keep praying for our Jim who is having complications from hie surgry.

Dia dhuit

Mary





"I am not a racist.   I love all races, except marathons.   I hate marathons."   unknown

Just got back from Writer's Club.   We are going to be Kindle Publishing an anthology of our work early next year.   I will let you all know when we get it out.

Was busy all day just with writing and bookkeeping and going to the bank and grocery store.   I also had a plumber by to adjust the heat levels in the guest bath.     See, Bill, I do listen to you.   I wish you were here now, though, the mirrored doors on the pantry came off the track and I don't know how to get them back on.    I'll find someone to help me.   I am learning how to ask:)

Tomorrow will also be very busy with errands.   Then I have a day at home again.  I like it when the days work out that way.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Get well quick, Jim.

I was home all day today.    I like those days, but not all the time.   You all know me and know that I am a social person.  Darned near drove Dick nuts:)    He would have been content to just be home ALL the time with just me.  (Quite a complement)   He did like family things though.   Loved the holidays and when we spent time with ANY of the kids or family.  

I got SO much done today.   I am ready for Bible study, Writier's club, the Lawton Celtic group and my CWI updates.  

Nicky and I went for two walks around the block.   I "agreed" to a second one because - when walking this morning, Bart called and I lost one of my rosaries as I fumbled for the phone and tried to hang on to Nicky and a poop bag.   Believe it or not.  I did find the rosary.   Not a big thing, it is losing beads and requires concentration but it was made by a dear friend, Esther.  Thank you Esther.

Eating is easy.  I have leftovers until at least Thursday:)

Tomorrow will be quiet too but I do have a couple of things to do and must go to the bank and the grocery store.  I am almost out of PEANUT BUTTER.    Cannot happen.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A beautiful day.  Kind of quiet after Leslie and Bill left.  I miss the company.

But a beautiful day.

Went to mass this morning and visited with my Holy Family friends.  Met a couple of new army transfers in.  Always good and always will be.

The rest of the day was quiet.  Didn't hear from a soul.  Called Leslie this evening (I knew that they were home safe and sound but wanted to just check in.) She was making minestrone soup from my knock off recipe.  I am so proud.

So now, time for settling into bed.

Love you all

Mary


Dizzy Gillespie said, "I don't care too much about music. What I like is sounds."

Just got back from a lovely soup supper at Bart and Barb's.   Marlies was there also.   We had such a great meal and visit.   Tomorrow Leslie and Bill leave for home.   So sad:(  it has been a lovely visit and iI will miss them.

Enjoy the poem

Dia dhuit

Mary 


What if you slept...
by Samuel Taylor Coleridge


What if you slept
And what if
In your sleep
You dreamed
And what if
In your dream
You went to heaven
And there plucked a strange and beautiful flower
And what if
When you awoke
You had that flower in your hand
Ah, what then?

Sorry I missed yesterday, but Leslie, Bill and I are having such a lovely visit that it just got so late that I was tired.

I have finished all of my tests to see what is wrong with my tummy.   ( I like the word tummy better than stomach.)   Bill has been kind enough to drive me and with his hospital experience is a true blessing.  Yesterday, when I was put "Out" with the GI test, he was there when I was not awake to find out what Dr. Morgan had to report.   Basically, I have an "area".  He did a biopsy and we have to wait.   Today was the CT scan.  We won't know until my doctor gets the results.   This has been the slowest process EVER.

The rest of the day was nice. Today was the Lawton Celtic Club potluck Samhain Dinner.  I took Les and Bill.  There were 8 of us there, a nice turnout for our group.  We had a super meal.  Irish cheese and crackers, corned beef, colcannon and pumpkin pudding.   A true feast and the best company.   I am glad that Les and Bill got to meet some of my friends.

This evening we went to Red Lobster for dinner.

The will be here until Saturday morning.  YEA!!!! I love having company.    Dick would approve since they are family:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi You all.   I know, in the South, they say Y'all but I am still a Wisconsinite at heart.

I WAS back from Chicago yesterday morning and home by noon.  However ---- Guess what---- Leslie and Bill are visiting and we have been having such great visits and all.  And frankly, last night, I was just to darned tired to post.

IBAM was wonderful.   My talk went well, got lots of good feedback.  I even sold one of my cookbooks and traded my poetry books with another author for HER book.   It was great.   Heard so many wonderful talks at the Literary Salon and sat in on a panel discussion by three authors ( Ken Bruen, William Doyle and Turtle Bunbury).  Ant this was just Saturday.  Sunday brought more lectures, after a lovely, poorly attended Mass, in the auditorium.   I finished off the weekend with a concert by the winner of the IBAM music award winner, Tommy Fleming. 

I am so grateful to my friends, Frank and Sharry Avilla for transporting me back and forth from the hotel to the Irish American Heritage Center for those days, they are truly special  I got to meet the son of the Person of the year and Visual Arts person of the year.  Remember the black and white painting of Che on the red background.  That is Jim's.   His son is adorable and a charmer.  I have his card and he has mine so I hope to hear from him.

Loved the big expensive awards dinner and learning about and meeting the awardees.  

A wonderful experience - again.

Got home and found out that Leslie and Bill had come a day early just to be on vacation.  We have been just soaking up the family time.  Bart came over this afternoon and the five of us, Bart, Barb, Leslie, Bill and myself all went out for dinner tonight.

More to come.   I LOVE having people in the house.   Nicky likes it too as long as they don't stand up.   Kind of a private joke but he gets afraid of Bill every time he stands up, I wonder if it is because his is so tall?  Loves him when he is sitting down.

Oh well

More tomorrow. 

Dia dhuit

Mary

WELL.   Tomorrow I leave for IBAM in Chicago.    I am not packed yet, BUT I have lists and I have done all the out of home errands that have to be done prior to a trip so I have ALL day as I do not have to be to the airport here in Lawton until quarter to 5 or so.

I am looking forward to being with old friends.   I am looking forward to the Irish experience that IBAM offers.   I am working on getting the Celtic footprint here in Lawton,but it takes time and I am "old":).   I should not be expected to break new ground in a new land:)

Today was busy.   I had Mass and Bible Study this morning.   I will not be able to go next week because I have a medical test on Wednesday morning.   This afternoon, I saw Dr. Toy, my chiropractor, who REALLY fixed my poor sore neck and back.   I will be much more comfortable on the trip.  I got my Powerball ticket.   Can't forget that.

Bart stopped by for a bit this afternoon to be sure we have tomorrow set as he and Barbara are taking me to the airport.

The only things I have to do tomorrow are to finish packing and do my Fantasy Football picks.   A nice quiet day and a day spent with Nicky.   He loves being with Bart and Barb but when I come home, you wouldn't believe the noises that come out of that dog.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from the Quilt Guild Halloween quilt airing and pot luck.

Barb drove and we picked up another friend of hers, Karen, who I will probably see again.  My friend, Judy, from bible study was there also.   I am knowing more of the club members too so am feeling a part of the group.

That was all the excitement today, so I will just say Good Night and I love you all.

Dia DHuit

Mary

This has been an odd day.  I went to mass at 8:30AM with a stop on the way to give Bart his meds.   He had a bad day today.   We were going to be together, but he was so tired, that I just checked in with him often to be sure he didn't need any thing.  

I am getting ready for my Chicago trip.  Tomorrow  will be the day I get serious.  Have a couple calls to make to be sure that I get to my hotel.   Talked to my friend, Maureen Smith today and will be there to help her set up the Literary Salon for IBAM.  We will be going to the special dinner together again.   It is always fun and I figure it is a treat for myself.   I would not lightly consider a 100.oo dinner usual.   Fun to hob nob with the people who are active in our Irish heritage.

So tonight I am tired.  Tomorrow will be going to a pot luck for the Wichita Mountain Quilters, so I will be making broccoli/cauliflower salad in the morning.

Have a lovely evening.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a nice day I had.    I spent parts of it with Bart.   Barb is at her quilting retreat (Well deserved) so Bart and I had things planned over the weekend.    Today,  we rested in the morning as Bart did not feel too well, but this afternoon, we went to Octoberfest here in Lawton.  We had a great time listening to the music and eating brats and just  chattering.

We also did some checking on my phone to see why I have so much trouble with it.  We have some solutions.

We got to his house at about 4PM.  Then he stopped by this evening for a bit.   He misses his Barbara and I miss someone too so to just be "with" is a good thing.

We have had the most beautiful weather. 

I can't believe that I will be leaving for Chicago in four days.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A happy day.    Bart and I drove down to the Wells Fargo Bank in Wichita Falls and I have paid off the mortgage on this house.   We sent a certified check which will be received on Monday so as of Monday I will be free of debt again.   Ya Hoo!

I also consolidated a couple of accounts as long as I was there.    Now, I will be setting up a funeral trust in the next week or two, then investing the rest of the proceeds.   Dick would be so pleased that I don't have a house payment any more.

It was rather chilly today, never got over the low 70s.   Actually, it was in the low 50s when I took Mr. Nicky out this morning.   Nice for walking, except that it was quite windy as we had a storm go through during the night.   No hail or damage here.  Thank heavens.   So sorry for the people on the east coast.   We need to pray.

Barbara is at a quilting retreat this weekend.   So glad for her.   She really needed some time and will enjoy that so much.   Bart and I are going to Octoberfest here in Lawton tomorrow.   That will be fun.

Dia dhuit

Mary

It was HOT today and muggy.  But altogether not a bad day.  I went to Mass and Bible Study this morning and got a lot of people praying for me.   I am still having trouble with my tummy.

Then I  came home after grocery shopping and worked on some business.  

Bart and Barb were here this evening for a while.  Always happy to have bodies in the house.  Bart is going to take me for my tests tomorrow.  I would be fine, but it is nice to have someone along.   As my friend Kathy always said.  Two sets of ears are better than one.

DiaDhuit

Mary

Just a note as it is 9:30PM and I just got home from Writer's Club.     I read a couple of Matt's poems and one of my own which will go in our anthology.   Heard some good stories too.  Most of these people write fantasy/Sci Fi, interesting and good writing, but not my main expertise.   As they are willing to listen to and critique my poems, I am glad to be a part of the whole.

Had a new cleaning lady start today.   She was recommended by Barbara and seems very efficient.   She does this for a living so it will be more dependable and consistent.

I went to the doctor this afternoon because of the pain I have been having in my stomach and some other symptoms.   We are waiting for the results of a couple of tests and I have to go talk to they doctor that did my colonoscopy to see if I need the stomach scoped.   I may have an ulcer and of course we can't have that hanging on:)

I got my flu shot while I was there.

That is all.

Pray that my tummy feels better.  I can use all the help I can get!!!

Dia Dhuit

Mary

An extremely quiet day.  No appointments.   BUT my friend, Kate, called and we had a very good conversation.   Haven't talked to her for quite some time so we had a lot to catch up on.

Our bible study leader, Judy, is gone this week and assigned myself and Mary Beth to lead the Wednesday morning meeting which is also the first week of the Parish Bible Study  of the Good News of God's Mercy (Luke)   So after I read and studied a bit, I called Mary Beth.   We talked and have come to an agreement of how to approach the day.   Sure will be glad to have Judy back next week, but we will do just fine.   After all, Jesus is supposed to be in charge:)  RIGHT.

Tomorrow is extremely busy.   Will tell you about that tomorrow after Writer's club.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am surely going to sleep well tonight.    I went with Barb, this afternoon, to walk in the 11th Annual Spirit of Survival Walk.    The walk culminates the end of a day that begins with a half and quarter marathon and a 5K run.     Then in the afternoon, they have Kids Marathon and end with the mile spirit walk.  Barb did the quarter marathon and did it in 55 minute.   Ya Hoo to Barb.   I was not up to getting to the park by 6AM in the morning to walk or run at 7:30AM.

BUT I wanted to participate in this wonderful fundraiser.  So walked a mile.   I have a neat yellow t shirt and a medal.   I am so proud.  Barb as a survivor wears a red shirt.   She is a true wonder.   Even helping people on the walk who got too tired.     We are truly blessed to have her.

I went to mass this morning and stopped for coffee and donuts afterwards.   I like that here.   This is how I have met many of the parishioners.  With that and Bible Study, I ALMOST feel at home.   It does take a while though, doesn't it?   This isn't my first rodeo.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A busy morning.   I signed up for the Spirit Walk.  This is the third year of the event which includes half and quarter marathons and kids marathon events and this Spirit Walk which is in the afternoon.  I is a breast cancer fundraiser so I really wanted to participate.  Barb will pick me up at about two tomorrow and we will walk together.    I even get a tshirt:)

This morning after I got back from that, the door bell rang and there was a policeman at my door.   I put Nicky in the office, first thing.   He actually was "off" a house.  They had gotten a call about an object in someones backyard.    It was my neighbors.  They found a machete like object in their back yard.  I found out how good my neighbors are.  Those who saw the police car came over to be sure that everything was OK.  Am I blessed - or WHAT!!!

Quiet the rest of the day.   Had a nice talk with Bart tonight.

Now I am ready to rest.   Am fighting a bit of a physical problem.  Nothing serious, but uncomfortable.  Only mention it because I love getting prayed for:)

Love you all

Dia DHuit

Mary

It is a happy day.  The closing on the condo in Plymouth happened today.   I now only own one home.  Yee Haa.

All went smoothly and it is over.  That means that I am stuck in Oklahoma:)

We had an absolutely beautiful weather day today.  I aired out the house for hours.

Next week will be busy distributing the funds from the sale.   Mainly, paying off this house.

Dia dhuit

mary

A gorgeous day in Lawton.  The temps were in the mid 70s and so perfect.

I was home most of the day.   Only had one errand. late this afternoon which took all of 20 minutes.   I love my little house so this is OK.

I had a lot of "business" to attend to.   Banking, wash, some cleaning.   I have contacted a person recommended by Barbara who cleans houses.   The previous person was not working out.   She did a nice cleaning but I could not rely on her to be here when I expected her and was getting too sucked into her personal problems.  My cleaning lady should be just lat.

I can't believe that in two weeks, I will be interacting with many of my Celtic friends from so many years when I go to IBAM.  I miss my friends from there.

The past two days have brought several calls from that time of my life and it makes me feel that my efforts there are not for naught.   (That is a funny phrase but I kind of like it.)

I worked on the President's Challenge for the Wichita Mountain quilt shoe and my quilt that will take forever.

Tomorrow is a another quiet day.    I have ( you know me) set several goals so I will not be bored.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am sure you get bored with me.  My days are much the same. 

Today was rather lovely, weather wise,  a bit hot and muggy but not bad.

I went to Mass and Bible Study this morning    We had a lively discussion on how we expect God to answer our prayers.   Just like in business:) we have to remember that when we do only what is required of us, we cannot expect big rewards:)

 It was a wonderful day for me as far as communication.  Two of my dear friends from my Wisconsin life called me and we had such good talks.    I miss all my friends and when they call ME, I know that the friendship meant something.  They called at different times too   Whoo Hoo so I did not have to cut someone off OR call back and take a chance of missing them.

Barb stopped by this evening too so my evening was full.   I am so blessed.    She had her hair done to day and it looked GORGEOUS.   So soft and flattering.

She saw what I have been working on for the "President's Challenge" for the quilt show that the Wichita Mountain Quilt Guild does.  She likes it.  And she showed me her plan.  Boy are We GOOD>

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from Writer's Club.    Now that they are meeting regularly again and there are more than three people and I have gotten to know the attendees, it is fun.    I read a couple of poems this week and gave Jed the zip drive of my short story.   We have a couple of members who are reading chapters from their books.   We do seem to have a preponderence of Sci fi and fantasy, but that is fine.  They are receptive to all genres so I feel at home.

The early part of the day was busy, I worked on a quilt project, baked some scones and ran a couple of errands.

Tomorrow is bible study.  

Dia Dhuit   Stay well

Mary

It was cool today.  The temps never got over the mid 70s.  No rain either.

A totally lovely day.

I was home most of the day though I did go shopping and for a visit with Bart.   Tomorrow will be
 much the same, though I will go to Writer's Club in the evening.

I am SO very tired, but hope that I can stay awake for the big debate.

Dia Dhuit

Mary 

A cool and misty day.

I went to Mass this morning at 8:30AM and then to coffee afterwards.  This has become an important part of my life as I am interacting with others.

Then home.   A reasonably quiet day.  I WAS busy.   Had several projects.   Talked to my friend, Janet for a while.   I don't know whether I mentioned, but our mutual friend,John, was killed in a yard accident and we are praying for and trying to be there for his wife, Toni.   I also talked to Barbara and Kathy today. 

The coming week is quiet, but I have determined a couple of project deadlines which always keep me on track.    I am so blessed in my life. 

Dia dhuit

Mary

The weather is at least 10 degrees cooler, but we are getting warnings of severe thunderstorms.   So far those storms have not hit Lawton.  At least my part of Lawton.

Barb and I went to the International Fest here in Lawton this afternoon.  We met Lexie, Adam Adria, Abbie and Jackson there.    I am a bit confused as to why it is an International Fest.  I guess the stages feature dancers and music from many nations and I did see some really great Native American dancing.   But there were no booths or areas to feature the various ethnic backgrounds that settled and grew this area.  There was a great variety of food.   Mostly food trucks which I am not knocking.  They had a nice variety of really tasty ethnic food.   But I would have liked to share the history of the food.    I think I expected something different.     It is always good to spend time with Barb and her family.


So Sunday rolls around again.   I actually ran into a gal, Pam, who I have met at church while at the festival.  It gives me hope.    When in Sheboygan County, I knew somebody everywhere I went.    I get lonely sometimes.

But it will be OK.   I am tough and will gradually find a place where I belong here too.  This isn't my first rodeo.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

just had an odd experience.  I started out of the bathroom and my belt loop hooked on the door handle:)

Very disconcerting.  Who else has this happened too.  I hope it is not just ME!

A quiet day.  Not as hot as it has been. Nate mowed the lawn this afternoon.  I did not have to go anywhere.  Finished a couple of projects and planned for some more.

 A good day.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, I went to see the doctor today.  I have had an itchy rash on my upper arms.   No where else, Just my upper arms.   I have been trying to heal it myself but it has been a week now.   The nurse practitioner and I have come to the conclusion that when I raked out the leaves from the shed in my back yard, there must have been spores there that landed and gave me the rash.  I have meds that should clear it up.   I HATE it.  Guess I should not be doing yard work:)

Bart came over today and had lunch with me.   I had made Green Meatballs and since Barb hates pea soup, this seems like a nice treat for Bart and me.   We had a nice visit.   I much prefer having meals with other people.

Tomorrow is a quiet day.  Bart may have me run an errand with him.  

The sound is out on my computer.   I am going crazy trying to get it to work again.

Dia DHuit

Mary

I am watching the news these days and feeling very sad.   Dick said at one time that when he was young and in the Korean War, he thought that things would get better for our species as we continue on this world but he was losing hope.

I am watching the events that are taking place.  Slightly different but still the same.    I was in Southern California, Costa Mesa actually, during the riots in Watts in 1992.   Santa Ana, not that far from where I lived was also affected with the violence.   It was a long HOT summer and people were on edge.   Poverty, anger, racism (I find THAT hard to justify in my neighborhood and faith community) are rampant.  We have a police force that is 90+ % dedicated to keep the communities they protect safe.   

Unfortunately, there are abuses.   We need Martin Luther King Jr. to come back and teach us AGAIN peaceful demonstration.  I remember looted stores, burned cars and stores and horrible violence in LA and in Santa Ana.   Haven't we learned anything.  That was 51 years ago, for Heaven's sake and my heart is breaking.   Destroying is not going to solve anything. 

Why can't we all just appreciate our differences and love the things that are the same.

Sorry for the Rampage.   NO! I am not.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

An unseasonably hot day.  MY thermometer said that it was 104degrees.  The weatherpersons said that 105 was the heat index.   Who cares.   It was HOT.

I was able to be indoors in air conditioning all day so am truly blessed.  

It was a quiet day.  I went to the drug store and to the grocery store this morning.  

My friend, Janet, called shortly after lunch.  We had a great visit.   I miss all my friends.  

Bart and Barb were in Oklahoma City today for a back evaluation so I went over to let Lily and Leo out around two.   They would have been fine, but it is no trouble for me to go over and break up their day.   I enjoy them anyway.

Worked on the big quilt and the president's challenge as far as quilting.

Must start fitting in writing more.   I am out of the habit.  And need to get back into it.

Dia Dhuit

Mary 

I don't know why, every interest that I have has to have a meeting in the same week, but this is what happened.

Quilt Guild on Monday, Writer's Club on Tuesday, Bible Study on Wednesday and Celtic Club on Thursday.     

Am I getting involved. OR WHAT.  Dick would have been holding me back.   Actually it is the timing, not the interests.   (I mean that, Dick!!!)   Hopefully, I will be able to spread things out a bit.   But it did work.

I am meeting good people and getting involved. 

Today was great.  I saw Dr. Toy and my bones are not too bad considering the weather.   I had a furnace maintenance done and my lawn mowed.   Tomorrow I have NOTHING.   What a relief.  

Actually, Mary will come to clean, but I don't have to do anything except let her in for that:)

Time is winding down.   I am tired.   It looks like the condo may close a bit early.   That would be nice.   It will be pleasant not to be paying a house payment again.   I spent part of this afternoon sorting receipts.  Each year I do the same thing  throw them into a folder and then about this time of the year realize that I have a spider's web and sort.  Tee Hee.  Must be an easier way.

Talked to Leslie today.  We always have a lot to talk about.  They are doing well and have a full house, as Sara and her husband Jon, and Joh and Sara's son Matthew are staying there.   I got to talk to Sara's Jon the other day and was impressed.  He seems like a sweetheart and loves our Sara.



Dia Dhuit
Mary

Just got home from Writer's Club.   A good meeting.   I pulled out a short story that I wrote many years ago as the group is planning on publishing an anthology on Amazon before Christmas.    Jed said that I can write or submit a couple of poems for Segway but I DO have his ONE short story too.

Tomorrow, Bible Study and the dentist.

I got the papers for the sale of the condo notarized and sent off to Alison today.   So it was busy.

Had a visit from Bart this afternoon too.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got back from Quilt Guild meeting.   It is fun to do that and I get to do it with Barb.   We had a quilt judge go over the criteria and steps they go through in judging quilts at the shows.   The Wichita Mountain Guild (the one Barb and I belong to) has a show every other year and February 2017 is the next one.    I am working on the President's Challenge and will enter a wall hanging or two in the show.   FUN.

I was busy all day.   Made reservations for the hotel in Chicago, hand quilted a bit, paid some bills, just generally a busy day.   Did not finish all my list until after 3PM.

Tomorrow I will be getting the papers for the sale of the condo notorized and sent back to Alison.   The condo will close on the 30th.   Then I can pay this place off and be done with all of that.   Whew.

It was muggy today and tomorrow will be the same but then it is supposed to cool down a bit.   Actually, it was cool when Nicky and I walked this morning.   That was REALLY nice.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A beautiful day.  I had air coming though my home today.   What a pleasure after all the heat we have had.

I went to mass at 8:30AM and got a donut afterwards to socialize with my church friends. 

The rest of the day was too quiet again.

I did accomplish a lot but do miss my sweetheart.  Just somebody to talk to.

Dia dhuit

Mary

WELL.   Nicky had his dental work done today.    I have to laugh.  When I was a child, a dog was happy to have a place to sleep and food every day.   When my kids were young, you made sure your dogs had all their shots and a place to sleep every day.

Now we do dental for our pets.   I have, from my previous veterinarian in Sheboygan County WI, a picture ID of my Nicky.  it has his picture and all  his vital information.  My Mother thought it was hysterical that my pets had picture IDS.  She did not get her first picture ID until she was in her late 80s.   She never drove, and until you needed a picture ID in order to fly somewhere, it was not needed.Think about it.  A simple, trusting age.

We are supposed to get rain tonight.   A welcome rain.  Tomorrow I am going on a buss tour to Oklahoma Amish Country for a Quilt show with Barbara and here mother.   Should be fun.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I was home ALL day today.   Made my Nicky mighty happy.    It was hot - heat index over 100 degrees again.   Humid too.

I made a batch of Jambalaya today.  It is good.  Now I have four meals in the freezer, so no preparation of big meals is out for me for a while.   Anybody hungry?  I have chili, stew, Jambalaya and pea soup.  Glad to have you over any time.

Worked on the quilt that will be going on my bed for a while.

This afternoon, Bart came over to visit and to take me for a ride in his new car.  I am BAD.  I forgot what it is but he is easier able to get into and out of it and it drives more comfortably for him.  I am always glad for somebody in the house.   

My brother, George, called while he was on the phone with somebody and George and I had a nice visit too.  I am twice blessed.

Have to take Nicky's water away at 8PM.  I am to take him for his dental work at 7AM in the morning.  At least, that was my agreement with Meadowland, I missed a call from them asking if I was "Still bringing him in" tonight.   I specifically said that I did not want him to spend a night in a kennel.  I have to find another hair dresser as of this week, do I need a new vet too?  What is wrong with this place?

Pray for your poor befuddled friend.

Dia dhuit
Mary

Hot and muggy again today.  I thought I would be coming to a place with dry heat.   Little did I know.   Humidity makes me ache.

Today I went to Mass and Bible Study.   A great session this morning.   We are a lively group.

Got home just in time to welcome the gentleman who installed my new storm door in the front.  Not, if it ever cools down, I can air my house out.    It really looks good.  I got one with a big window/screen area so lots of light will come in.

Mary came to clean today.   A good thing.  She could not come on Saturday and I will be gone this coming Saturday to an Amish Quilt event.

So an altogether BUSY day.   Nicky is totally exhausted from trying to protect me this afternoon.

I did a bit more straightening out in the garage.  All the wet stuff is dealt with and I will get most of the trash out tomorrow.   Wouldn't you know, they have trash pickup twice a week, but Monday, being Labor Day was off.   So I had to wait.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Wow.   A busy day.

I was supposed to get a haircut at 10AM.   Went to the shop and noone was there.  Tried to call the number on the card and got no answer and no answering machine.  WHAT IS WITH THESE LAWTON HAIRDRESSERS?

Good thing, though.  I got home just in time to get the call from Shields Plumbing.   They came and replaced my water heater.   I am so relieved. Still have some wood to be drying out in the closet that the unit is in, but all is good.

I got an email from this city's writers club again.  They met tonight, so I tried again.  This time there were of us and there are a couple of others so I feel it will be worth going to.   Interesting readings from the members and nice idea on things to do.   I read the introduction to my new book.

So home again, it is 9:30PM and I am tired.  I had an awful night last night.  Woke up in the middle of the night with every muscle and joint aching which makes it impossible to really rest.   Hope tonight is better.   At least if I get too bad, I now have hot water and can soak in the tub.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I was deliberately lazy yesterday and did not post.   Nothing happened anyway, though 49 years ago, on September 4th, Labor Day that year, my Bret was born.

Called him and sang Happy Birthday to him.   They were heading down to the beach near his Arizona home.   I know he got pampered this weekend.  Wish I could have been with him too.

Today was about as quiet.   I did go shopping so I could get a couple of plastic totes to replace some of the cardboard that got soaked in my water heater fiasco.   Should hear in the morning as to when they can get her to replace it.    I also have that storm door being installed this week.   

Nothing else new.

Love you all

Mary

Another day without hot water.   

There is still some draining in the garage, but it is in a manageable stream and I just Shop/Vac it a couple times a day.    They will be calling me on Tuesday or Wednesday to schedule the installation of the new water heater.  Thank heavens that Bart and Barb live so close so I can go there to shower.   Everything else is OK by heating water on the stove if I need it.

I went over to shower after my supper tonight.  It was nice to have someone to talk to of an evening.   I will miss that part of it.

I went to Lowe's and ordered my storm door for the front.   They will also be calling me on Tuesday or Wednesday so next week will be busy. (And expensive.)    Oh well, it is all to secure and make better my little home.

Dia dhuit

Mary

What a day.

My water heater crashed.  I have the American Shield Insurance so the cost will be minimal to replace it BUT THIS IS THE LABOR DAY WEEKEND.

I did get someone out here who is draining the heater and I have water, though no hot water.   Ouch.  After moving things around in the garage and getting rid of the water that surged into the garage, I really WOULD like a nice hot whirlpool bath.  That is obviously not going to happen as cold water will not do it.

Pray that they do get authorization to fix it tomorrow Saturday (Not much chance) otherwise, Bart and Barb will have me taking showers over there for a while.

Dia DHuit

Mary

I had a very busy afternoon and a reasonably quiet afternoon.

Went to Lowe's and ordered my storm door (the the installer called and came to do the estimate for installation right after lunch), I picked up the crystal cross that the Blessed Trinity Bible study had gifted to me many years ago from the jeweler.   It had disintigrated  on the trip but the jeweler, bless his heart, was able to get it back together.  I have it proudly on top of a bookcase in the living room.   Finally, I stopped at the Post Office and picked up some stamps and a birthday card.

As I said this afternoon was quiet, too quiet as I was kind of reved up, but it is OK.

Worked on the quilt a bit which settled me down. 

It was really nice today, a bit humid but in the 80s so I am not complaining.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A full lovely day.   Mass and Bible Study in the morning.  Lots of support there.

Then Scott and Bart came by and we had a nice visit this afternoon.  Scott will be leaving for home in Sacramento soon so nice to  have the visit time.   Had Dinner this evening at Bart and Barb's too.   Marlies was there also.   Barb made the best  peach cobbler.   Nummy Nummy

Dia Dhuit

Mary

FYI --- Happy Me.    Mama Kitty came during the night and took her last baby away.    I am so relieved.   Was trying to figure out what to do to feed a baby kitty.

Dia DHuit

Mary

An extremely frustrating day.    For some reason, I decided to look in the shed in my back yard to determine how much work it will be to clean it.   I found five little kittens in the corner.    I called Animal Control and they sent someone over.    The kittens are healthy and their eyes are open but they are still just little.  The man who came said that if he took them they would euthanize them.   OUCH.   When we checked on them, all but two were gone, so MAMA is moving them because I found them.   I told him that I could not in my heart send them to certain death.   He was SO nice and said that they are still in my custody and I can do what I want.    When I checked at about 6PM, only one kitten was still in the shed.   I will check again in the morning and deal with it then.  Hopefully, MAMA will have come to get him (or her) too.  

This morning, I went over to church for safe environment training from the Archdiocese.   I have volunteered to be an usher and apparently even ushers have to completer the training and be checked out to be sure we are not criminals.  

The rest of the day was quiet.   Nicky likes that a lot.   He likes me home.

Tomorrow, Bible Study.   I may go to order the front storm door too.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

We were kind of promised rain, but the weather people lied again.   It was not bad, in the low 90s.   I am glad that I watered the front yard anyway.   I have learned not to trust those people.

I had nothing scheduled today at all.  

SO - this afternoon, I went to Lowes and Home Depot to check prices of storm doors.   I want a storm door so that when it is nice I can open the door and let the breeze flow through the house.  The Sun room has lots of windows so I only need an opening in the front.   On Thursday or Friday, I will go to order it.   I want to check on a cat door between the living room and sun room also.   I want a cat and the sun room is the logical place for a litter box, but not if I have to open the door every time the cat wants to pee:)

I have established some goals today.     It is only 6 weeks until IBAM in Chicago and I need to be preparing for that.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Went to Mass this morning,   Was home the rest of the day.   I really feel good about today, I got a LOT done.   It is amazing how much retired people are responsible for:)  And then there are things we  really WANT to do.

It was hot but not unbearable. 

I Called Bret today.  He is doing very well   They were in California this weekend and are getting settled in their new home.    Next week is his birthday.  He was born on Labor Day, You know.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A wonderful Saturday.

Went to the City with Bart and Barb and Marlies as I said.

Should never go with them.   I spend money:)   Got some clothes and fabric.

Then a blessing occurred.   Scott, one of Bart's friends from FIRST GRADE, was driving through on his way from California to Missouri and met us at the Cheesecake Factory in OC.    I have not seen him since he came to Green Bay when Bart and Barb lived there.  It was SO good to spend some time with him and it was so special for Bart.   I wish you could have seen his face when Scott walked in. 
Special special day.

Dia Dhuit

Mary