Not a very busy day, but I did get several things done.   I am about done writing short summaries of the Celtic Nations to include in the book of Celtic Saints for somewhat of a background of what the active missionaries faced and  why they and the other non missionary saints were chosen as patron saints.

The sun was out all day, but there is a nice comforting breeze so humidity is not an issue.  I took a nice walk after lunch.   See. I am getting better about that.

The only other "event" was Mass.   I went to the 4PM Mass and took communion to my friends Rita and Tom. Rita was very weak but her spirit just shines in her eyes.  We had a missionary priest, from the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, who is working in the province of Ghana.   He was very interesting talking about his ministry in two war situations in Africa.

So. Now I am ready to wind down for the night.   My goal tomorrow is to finish my mini Celtic Nation Backgrounds and print them so that I can review them all and be sure that they follow the same general format.

So I am going to sit out on the deck for a little bit and then get ready for bed when it starts getting dark.

Hope your long weekend has been wonderful.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I liked today.   I was able to stay home all day.   I did wake up with a headache and sore neck, but managed to control the pain by 10AM.  Had lots of people to talk to today.   I talked to my neighbor Kathy this morning.  She was going to the Farmers Market and picked up some fresh strawberries for me.  When she brought them we had a nice visit.   She lived in the Cross Creek Condos when we were there many years ago.   So our paths have crossed twice.   She belongs to one of the garden clubs who arrange the Garden Walk in Sheboygan.   She also quilts and belongs to the Sheboygan County Quilt Guild.  Surprisingly, we did not really know each other until she moved out here.

This evening at 4PM the Tallgrass residents met in the common ground for a gathering.   We have set this time 4PM on Thursday for a weekly meeting just to visit and enjoy during the summer months.
There were about 16 of us this week, we will keep spreading the word and hopefully it will bet bigger.   It is not intended as an obligation, just as an opportunity to get to know each other better.

It was fun tonight.  I brought some snacks tonight.   We seem to be alternating that quite well too.  Nobody seems obligated, but there is plenty for everybody.

Tomorrow is the 4th of July.   I am going to put my flag out in the morning. 

I am going through linens and that type of thing to see what I can cull from the collection.   Not  quite the right terminology, but it sounds good.   I have so very much STUFF in this house.  Need to get rid of some of it.

So until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary


I       

Another rainy day and rather cool.   I don't think it even got over 65.   And cloudy ALL day.   Ick.  Sunshine sure would be welcome.  Then we will be complaining about the humidity since it is so wet.

Roxie had her doctor appointment for a recheck of her blood today.   We are going back to two pills a day from 2 1/2.   I know she will like that.   She absolutely hates it when I shove those things down her throat and she is such a picky eater that I can't hide them in food and she did not even acknowledge that pill pockets existed when I tried them.  She has been throwing up lately, often with hair balls coming up.    I gave her butter Monday.   Dr. Connors gave me a tube of stuff to rub on her foot for her to lick off that will help hairball problems without adding fat.   She has regained most of the weight that she lost so that is important.  Dr. Connors also really wants her to eat the KD food so I have two brands of canned that she hasn't tried.   However, she isn't thrilled with the first one which actually smells pretty good.   It is chicken and gravy and smells like its name.   I will leave it until morning as my girl is not fond of trying new things.  

The rest of the day was quiet.   General chores.  Dusted the desk, washed some clothes.   Fixed a really good lunch.   I will just be heating things up for the next few days.

I went for a walk this evening.   I was feeling loggy and needed some fresh air so went for a walk.   My neighbor, Marilyn, was handing out some notices to non computer members of our condo assn. so I caught up with her and we chatted.   Nice to hear voices of an evening.

Some of you may remember the Norwegian Blessing I found years ago.   When I was in Ireland several years ago and shared it, the guide told me he felt that it must REALLY be and Irish Blessing.

And lo and behold I found it in an Irish book of proverbs and blessings.

"May the light always find you on a dreary day
When you need to be home may you find your way
May you always have courage to take a chance
And may you never find frogs in your underpants."

Dia Dhuit

Mary

July ALREADY

What a day.   Threatened at least twice with rain, but the clouds just passed on by.   It was rather muggy but I sat out on the deck this afternoon for about an hour reading and writing and it was just perfect.   A nice breeze moving the air around gently.   Boy were the birds ever happy.  Since I came in and have finished preparing and eating supper, it did rain a bit because the deck is all wet now.  Glad I went out when I did.

I spent most of the day just cooking and writing.   I made a rhubarb pie.   I had mixed up a pie crust a couple of weeks ago and used part of it so I HAD to use the rest or throw it away.   You know how I hate to throw things away.  

Fortunately, my friend Felicia came over so that we could get our last  payment to the Scotland Tour company sent off and I sent a couple of pieces home with her.  Now we are all set for the trip.   Just need to wait and pack and go.    I am so excited.

I took some venison out of the freezer today.   I marinated some of it in teriyaki sauce
for today and have enough left for one more meal  with the fried rice I had left.   Boy is it good.   Tomorrow, I will fix the rest of the meat in another way so I can add variety to my meals.

Roxie has a veterinarian checkup tomorrow at 8AM.   Good.   That will get me up and out of bed at a decent hour.   I do like to laze in these days.  Though it is getting better as my shoulder DOES seem a bit better.   I am crossing my fingers.

So. Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Monday

The last day of JUNE already.   This year is half gone. And it has been a full one.

I am still getting calls and notes from people about my Facebook invasion.   It should be OK.  I can only pray that nobody fell for it.   I got the most fun response from Suzi.   She DID refriend and ended up seeing the "big news" that my love had changed and thought maybe I had a boyfriend.   We both had a good laugh about that.   That sure would be a big change, and not one I am really interested in.  But Big.

We had almost a full crew at Bible Study.  With an animated conversation about the Jewish dietary laws and how when the Apostles were presented with the fact it was NOT evil to eat some foods, it was hard for them to accept.  Mainly because we Gentiles are ALSO part of Jesus's chosen ones.

Then on to Mother.  She looked really good today.   I distributed communion to my little people there and then we had a super visit.   I showed some pictures from the 50thJubilee and gave her the mass folder that we brought for her. On the way home I stopped off to just say Hi to Dolores and Ken.   Dolores and I had a cup of coffee together and just gabbed.  

So.  I was home a bit later than usual.   Had lunch and have been working on generally coordinating things around here. 

A storm is passing over this evening.   It is a doozy.   Lots of thunder and rain by the bucket loads.  It was very warm and muggy.  It still is muggy but the temperature has dropped because of the rain.

Speaking of rain, makes me think of the farmers.   I am seeing corn growing now.   I think SOME of it may be knee high.   As the 4th of July is in 4 days, this is encouraging.  My beans and tomatoes and herbs are really doing well.  THey seem to love this weather.

Dia Dhuit until tomorrow.

Mary

Today was both wonderful and annoying

The day was wonderful because it was a sunshiny day and not too hot with a lovely breeze blowing.  AND I was out at St. Michael's Church in Parnell for Fr. Mike Shea's Golden Jubilee of his Ordination to holy priesthood.  

We celebrated a Mass under a tent in the parking lot of the church under the sky.  At least six of Fr. Mike's priest friends and classmates were there to cocelebrate with him.   There was a small choir, those left from the closing of Our Lady of the Angels where Fr. Mike actually grew up.  My cousins, his siblings, Kevin and Brigid were there, of course and lots of other cousins that I never met before.
And just people who know him and wanted to be there.    The meal was wonderful.  Choice of pork or chicken sandwich, beans, potato salad, coleslaw and appetizers.   They had beer, Bloody Marys and water and coke to drink.  I was stuffed.   Had a short visit with Fr. Mike.   He is going to see Mother next week.   I sat with Uncle Pat and Aunt Joan, they will bring him to Mother.  Aunt Kathleen was there too.   And my friend Peg Payne.  I loved the beauty of the day.

Then I got home.   When I went on line and checked my mail, I found that someone had hacked my Facebook.   If anybody gets a friend request from me and you are already my friend.  IGNORE IT.   It is some kind of a scam.    I changed my passwords on Facebook and on both of my email accounts so (I checked with Richard and Brenda) Everything should be OK, as long as people don't respond to that request.   EEEEEUUUUUUUUU.  I hate stuff like this.

So. I have done all I can do and have had all the fun I can think of so will head into tomorrow ready to roll.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary  

A whole Day at Home

This has its good and its bads.   I Like the ability to not have to answer to anybody else and I miss not having to answer to anybody else.   Does that make any sense at all?

I slept until 8:AM and lo9lled in bed until 8:30AM.   Spent the morning on writing.  I am still trying to figure out a second poem to send to the Irish Fest Poetry Contests. Following lunch, I took a nap but it was way to hot to go the whole route that I usually take .   I may go out again tonight.  If I put it in writing I guess I have to.

Roxie and I sat on the deck for a while.  I read and she enjoyed the fresh air.   Now the trouble is going to be explaining to her when it is NOT nice to sit out there.  I am sure she thinks I control that too.

So, I kept myself amused.  

Tomorrow is the 50th Anniversary of my cousin, Mike Shea's ordination out at St. Michaels in Parnell.   So that will be a busy day.   I am looking forward to being with the Shea cousins and whoever else is there.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Michael Kelly " In a land where there are no musicians; in a land where there are no storytellers; teachers and poets; in a land where there are no men and women of vision and leadership; in a land where there are no legends, saints, and champions; in a land where there are no dreamers, the people will most certainly perish."

I had a really really nice day.   The weather was fine, I had the front door open most of the day. 

Went to lunch with my Bank Ladies at the Dairy Queen and did a few errands.   Cat food from the vet for our Roxie, mailed a couple things at the post office.   And I also stopped at Fleet Farm to pick up some varied slats that I think I can use to frame that HUGE copy of my painting called I Watched the Trees Die. 

This evening I went to the Ebco ArtSpace for the SVA Final Friday.  It was fun.   I painted a small piece that will be a part of the drawing at next month's Final Friday.

So.  it is almost 9PM and my bed time.    Tomorrow should be rather quiet and I am glad as Sunday is Fr. Mike Shea's 50 Anniversary of his Ordination at St. Michaels.   That will be fun.  Will se e lots of relatives and friends there.

Dia Dhuit

Mary


"In a land where there are no musicians; in a land where there are no storytellers, teachers and poets;  in a land where there are no men and women of vision and leadership; in a land where there are no legends, saints and champions; in a land where there are no dreamers, the people will most certainly parish."   Matthew Kelly

Finally, a beautiful day.

It was not to cold, not to hot.  Not humid.

I was home all day and Dick is probably fussing in his urn, I had the doors open almost all day.

I fried out some brats and hamburgers for the next few meals and cooked up a bunch of dump sauce.   It tastes good so I will eat it over noodles or rice.

I entered a poetry contest and worked on the book.

This evening , the condo complex had its first gathering.  We started this last year.  Whoever is available and wants to comes to our open area with a chair and a drink and perhaps a treat to just visit.  Not bad we had a bout 10 0of us there for the first day and it was so lovely.

Now I am winding down for the day.

So.  Good night and God be with you

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am content

Just arrived home from having dinner with Nora and Leif at "our" restaurant, The Blind Horse in Kohler.   We had visited there the past two times they came to Wisconsin so why change a good thing.

We had such a great visit with a wonderful meal.   Nora had Walleye, I had Salmon and Leif had Filet.   then we shared tasted of everything.   They serve their own wines so we shared a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc.  It is scrumptious and the bottle is unique too.   When we finished, we walked to the back of the property and found the wine bar, which is also a wonderful place.    Next time, we will start there for a wine tasting and then go up for dinner.   I bought a bottle of the Sauvignon because it was so good.   We found out all bout the place from the server and then he gave Nora an etched glass from the place to take home with her.   Now we will SURELY remember, as if we needed an excuse.  

The early part of the day was mildly active.  I went grocery shopping, washed some sheets and did general work around the place.

Roxie seems very needy today.   She was fussy when I got home but was very happy when I gave her a bit of salmon.   That girl has good taste in food.

Tomorrow will be an at home day until late in the afternoon.  If it is not a rainy day, the Condo residents are going to meet in our open space for our summer afternoon gatherings.  They were fun last year.   Whoever was around and felt like it came with a chair and something to drink and we visited.   No obligation, but a good time to get to know each other better.

Now, it is 9:30PM.  past my bedtime.   That is good.   I hope to sleep well .   Today, my shoulder was not to painful.   Keep your fingers crossed.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Sun and Rain

It was undetermined as to whether I would be busy today or not.    My neighbor,Jean, called at about 8AM to see if I was going to Mass today.   I did know that today is the Feast of St. John the Baptist, our church's patron saint.   However, I had not noticed that there was a mass being celebrated at 10AM at the cemetery.  There was no reason not to go and Jean was driving so I went.    It was cloudy and muggy while we were there, but did not rain and the sun even came out for a bit.

Home again, I worked on the book until lunch time, then ate and went out to do some errands.   When I got home, I rested a bit but got up when I heard the thunder that preceded a really heavy rainstorm.   It poured.  I wish I had a rain gauge.   Sure glad we are not in a flood zone.    I talked to a couple of people not far from here and they had no rain.   It took a narrow very wild path.  Now it is evening and the sun is out again.   I am going for a walk.

I'm back.  It was a nice walk.   Sunshine!  and I ran into people to talk to and walked part way with the Cornell's.  Couldn't ask for more.   Now that I am going more often, it is getting easier.   I really miss a furry companion, but this is OK.

So tomorrow, will have dinner with  Nora and Leif.  I am so looking forward to that.

Until then,

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A usual busy Monday.   It poured last night but there was no rain during the day.   Also very little sun.

I left at about 9 AM for bible study.  I had to drop things off at one place and pick things up at another on my way. We have a new member in our study group.   Barbara.   I knew her and she knows Mom.   We will be in Acts for a LONG time yet and this week were talking about the spirit of giving and sharing.

Then I drove to Sheboygan to spend time with Mom.   She looked good.  We had a lovely visit, remembering.   Jeff usually has a couple more pictures from the sorting to identify.  This week one was easy for me.  It was Grandma Bowser and me  on the occasion of my First Communion.

I had lunch with my friend Jena from the Plymouth Writers club than was able to be home the rest of the afternoon.

I am tired now.  Worked on the book and a bit of digging out of some chives in the garden.

So.   Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am not giving an opinion on this but it is interesting.

The Arctic Ocean is warming up, icebergs are growing scarcer and in some places the seals are finding the water too hot, according to a report to the Commerce Department yesterday from Consulate, at Bergen, Norway

                               

Reports from fishermen, seal hunters, and explorers all point to a radical change in climate conditions and hitherto unheard-of temperatures in the Arctic zone. Exploration expeditions report that scarcely any ice has been met as far north as 81 degrees 29 minutes.

Soundings to a depth of 3,100 meters showed the gulf stream still very warm. Great masses of ice have been replaced by moraines of earth and stones, the report continued, while at many points well known glaciers have entirely disappeared.

Very few seals and no white fish are found in the eastern Arctic, while vast shoals of herring and smelts which have never before ventured so far north, are being encountered in the old seal fishing grounds. Within a few years it is predicted that due to the ice melt the sea will rise and make most coastal cities uninhabitable.

* * * * * * * * *

I apologize, I neglected to mention that this report was from November 2, 1922, as reported by the AP and published in The Washington Post; 93+ years ago.

I was home all day, except for a short walk after lunch.     I decided that since it was Sunday, I would rest.  

I worked on the book a bit and called a couple of people, but basically, I just rested, read, played games.  

Tomorrow will start out as a normal Monday.   Back to Bible Study followed by a visit with Mom.

So. with nothing exciting, I will say goodnight to you all.

Dia Dhuit

mary

It was a gloomy day

Actually it was raining when I got up but that did not last too long.   But it remained a cloudy, cool yet muggy day anyway.

I went to the Exchange Bank for coffee and a piece of bakery.  I let people know that I was going to be there but this time noone came.    I got all the thank you notes for the Bloomsday event written and picked up some coffee beans for me.   I was almost out of my good stuff.

Home again, I mailed the notes, did some wash and made some phone calls.   Lori came to clean at about 11:30AM.   I joined the bank ladies at the Dairy Queen at 12:30.  I dropped off some clothes at St. Vinny's and picked up some meds for our Roxie on my way there.  

Home again, I rested for a while, then baked some bread and cupcakes.   I wanted to try something, and it worked.   I used a coffee stout instead of water in a chocolate cake mix.   I had to bake the bread because there was some beer left.  I made my simple beer bread - self rising flour, sugar, salt and beer.    I simply cannot waste.  

This evening,  I drove over to UW Sheboygan, to view an art exhibit.   My friend from Poets at Mead, Lisa Vihos' father, artist Georg Vihos, passed away in September of last year.   This is an exhibit of his works which are for sale.   It will be at the UW until July 25.   I had seen Lisa and her sister on Bloomsday, gathering his things from his studio at Ebco and she told me about the exhibit.   I was impressed and was glad to have an hour of enjoyment of beautiful art.  You can see some too at georgvihosart.com


So a full but pleasant day.   The rest of the weekend will be quiet.   I have several projects and wrap up things to do.  Then Monday will start a pretty normal week.    I look forward to seeing Nora and Leif on Wednesday as they swing back into Sheboygan County before heading back home. 

So another day of June is rolling over. 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

 Sign in a store.    No Senior Discounts-You have had twice as long to get the money.

A long day

It seems that way anyhow.

I was busy all morning with finishing up Bloomsday, except for thank you notes, and actually, I make a thank you note.

Then after lunch, I took the thank you note to Sun Graphics to copy and to get envelopes for.  I also went to the bank, the post office, dropped things off at St. Vinnies and went to Walmart for some office supplies.   Whew.

So much to do around here, but after dinner, I decided to take a walk.   I am trying to go on one at least three times a week and the weather was perfect for it today.    I could ear the kids playing baseball as I walked too.   I love that.

Tomorrow, I have decided to get up early and go to the Exchange Bank for morning coffee.  One way to get me up and onto the day.

Til tomorrow then

Dia dhuit
Mary

Storm

Well, if we needed rain, I think we have enough now.   Boy, thunder, lightening, wind and it poured this morning.    I was glad that I had no commitments today.   Around lunch time, I did go over to the Pig to pick up a couple of things and buy my lottery ticket.

I slept quite late this morning and now am finally feeling kind of normal after my odyssey on Monday.  The storm made my arthritis hurt.   First I was thinking that the shot was not working at all but then realized that it was my neck, not my shoulder.    That pain leaves in the sunshine.

I got several things done to wrap up Bloomsday.  By the way, we made the front page of the Sheboygan Press.  Mother was delighted.    I like to make her smile.

Tomorrow I have to run a few errands and finish thank you notes for all of our readers at the Bloomsday event.   They were spectacular.

Happy Thursday

Dia Dhuit

Mary




The books we think we ought to read are poky, dull, and dry;
The books that we would like to read we are ashamed to buy;
The books that people talk about we never can recall;
And the books that people give us, oh, they're the worst of all.

Carolyn Wells

post Bloomsday

After the storm last night it was sure nice to have sunshine.   It was a bit muggy, but could have been so much worse.

I went to the 8AM morning Mass so that I could pick up the sacrament for Mother and her fellow Catholics at Meadow View.   Then I gassed up the car and went home for breakfast and an hour nap.  (I am recovering from 24 hours of Bloomsday.)    I left for Meadow View and Mom at about 10:30AM.   Delivered the sacrament to her and the other residents then we had a visit.   I left after helping her down to the dining room for dinner.    I know that Nora and Leif were coming to visit this afternoon so did not want her tired out.

Home again, I had a lunch and then rested before heading over to my neighbor Linda's home for a party, a gathering, for the old and new boards of the the Tall Grass Condos.   It was fun.   While there, Bob and Peggy invited Alison and I to join them at the Black Pig for dinner.   I had not other plans so why not.   Their son owns the Black Pig in both Sheboygan and Elkhart Lake.

We had a great dinner and wonderful company.  What I did not expect was they treated us.   They are such fun and lovely people.

I had steak.   When we got there, I realized that I had been hungry for MEAT for a while.   This was great too.  Served over spinach and mashed potatoes.

So that is the day.

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit
Mary

The wind was pretty strong today

I rested as much as I possibly could today, between baking my last batch of scones and loading the car for the "Big Bloomsday Marathon."  It is really NOT a marathon but will seem that way to me as I will be surviving tomorrow on naps.

It is 6:30PM.  I am going to bed at 7PM and have set the alarm for 10PM.   I can take my shower, and finish loading the car so that I can get to Ebco to open up and get things set up.   We need to start the reading at midnight and keep things moving.  Not much in the papers though I send two press releases and Paul contacted the stations.   Jane, from the Press is coming to cover the event but that will be kind of after the fact.   We are hoping for word of mouth and the many sites that we have tried to cover.

Come if you can even if only for an hour or so.

I think the pain in my arm is easing.   Hope it isn't just wishful thinking.  I should know if it has helped in a week or so.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

ouch

I have been sore all day.   Dr. Fehrman did tell me that this might happen.   I hope it is the storm before the calm.   I know, I know, I reversed it.  

Today was a nice day.  Pleasant temps and a nice breeze.   I spent the day gradually getting things ready for Monday.  I have to leave at 11PM so want EVERYTHING done by noon so that I can rest the whole afternoon.  (This gives a couple of hours in the afternoon if there are trailing things left to do.)

I went to the 4PM Mass.   I was a Eucharistic Minister AND took Communion to Tom and Rita so I am twice blessed today.   Kate was at Mass and worshiped with me.  It is good to be with a companion that one knows.  My cousin Greg Ziegler and his wife Kathy and family were at Mass.  Greg has been so ill but was able to walk up for communion.    I gave him and Kathy a hug on the way out.   He looks pretty good considering what his body is going through. Pray for him.

By the way, Kate just got word that her daughter in law, Becky, has breast cancer.  Surgery this week.  Please pray.   It was a shock and they are scared.

Tomorrow I will finish what I need for the next full 24 hours. AND REST.

Take care of your all.

Dia Dhuit

Mary



  

It was a beautiful day

The weather was wonderful today.    A cool breeze was no problem because of the wonderful sunshine.   The breeze died down in the afternoon anyway.

My friends, Barb and Dick, left for Minneapolis at about the same time that I headed to see Dr. Fehrman at the Clinic.  He and I discussed the x-ray and MRI of my shoulder.   There is obvious damage.   I had choices.  Wait (not an option), try a shot in an area that Dr. Fehrman thinks May help, or surgery.    I decided with his council.   That the shot with a followup in four weeks would be the best now.   I told him that I had to be healed or at least able to travel in September for Scotland.  

This will work.   If I need the surgery, I would have time to heal, at least well enough for travel by Scotland.

Now, the weekend is free to be ready for Midnight on Sunday at the Ebco Center.

I am still getting response and it is going to be a go.   

Til tomorrow

I am sore and tired and sad.  Just want to sleep and not ache.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a lovely day.   Sunshine and gentle breezes.   Dick would have been horrified, I had the doors open almost all day.

Barbara and Dick left rather early for Manitowoc to visit her cousin, so I had the morning to myself.   I worked on Bloomsday and the Book and just rested after a bit because for some reason, after an almost comfortable day yesterday, my arm and shoulder are really hurting today.

When they came home, Barbara and I went to Sheboygan to visit Mother.   It was a nice visit.  Lots of remembering for the three of us.   We left about four thirty as Mom was getting tired.  But what a joy. 

A nice visiting evening for the three of us.   We had soup and Pasties for supper and more visiting.   They are leaving early and I have an 8:30AM doctor appointment so sleep is being sought by all of us.

Til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just a note.   I am heading for bed.   My friends are here and it is so good to be spending time with them.  It is good to have people in the house too.

More tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

P. S.  Someone from the Press is going to come to do an article on the Bloomsday event.

Yea.

Mary

On a cloudy day

I was a cloudy day and stayed in the lot 60s.   I found it quite comfortable.   Don't mind wearing a jacket, especially my newest denim jacket.

I was home all morning.  Didn't feel too well so I rested on the couch for a while.   I think it was the pill that I am taking to offset the allergy to iodine that left me a bit woozy.

My appointment with Tim Ebenreiter so that he could give me a key and educate me on the alarm system for the Ebco ArtSpace on Monday was at 1:30PM today.    Remember,  A 24 hour reading of the book Ulysses by James Joyce.   Bloomsday.  I am pleased that we have the day pretty well covered could use someone between 11AM and 1PM and 5PM to 6PM.   Anybody chomping at the bit to read

From Wikipedia:
Bloomsday is a commemoration and celebration of the life of Irish writer James Joyce during which the events of his novel Ulysses (which is set on 16 June 1904) are relived. It is observed annually on 16 June in Dublin and elsewhere. 

I did stop at Hobby Lobby and the bank on the way to the Ebco appointment, then on to Sheboygan Memorial for my MRI. I had taken all my pills so we could do the procedure.  It went well.   I don't get alarmed in the tube with all the noises and just try to relax.   I may have even drifted off.   It was almost four when I was done.   I did my grocery shopping on the way home.   Forgot Gorganzola Cheese for Monday.   No problem, the store is not going anywhere. 

Tomorrow, my friend Barbara and her husband Dick are coming to stay for a day or so.   They have relatives in Milwaukee, I think Barb's aunt is in a nursing home or something.   We have been friends since grade school.    Were even in the convent together.   She did stay longer.

I am doing this early so that I won't forget.   I ache all over today so will take a nice hot bath before I go to bed.   I will see Dr. Fehrman on Friday to evaluate my shoulder.

So.   Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

 

Lovely day

I made up my mind to be busy today.   Actually, I woke up kind of miserable.   Aching and not feeling well.   So I rested for a while and read the paper, then started baking scones and I make pancakes and ham for lunch.

This got me moving so I decided to go out to Rhine to shoot some pistol.   With no league, I figured I could do a bit of practicing without inconveniencing anybody.   I am still using my left hand.   With the new grips and shooting very carefully by myself, I am training my left hand to follow the rule.   (Finger only on trigger when shooting.)   It went well.   If I do end up having surgery on my right shoulder, this will slow me up a bit, but I do hope to rejoin the league in the Fall.

A typical super busy Monday

I started off by leaving the house a little before 9AM.   I stopped at Sun Graphics.   I had a picture of James Joyce and a map of Bloom's Dublin enlarged so that I can mount them on a poster board.  I also got the updated Tallgrass directory copied for distribution.   Next stop

Blessed Trinity.  I picked up the hosts for Mom and the other Meadow View Catholics and went to the Bible Study meeting.   We are still studying Saul's conversion.    Lots to talk about, not too many people get knocked off of their horses and struck blind.  We are trying to figure Paul out.  He was obviously an extremely intense guy, probably hard to get along with but great to have on your side.

Next I drover to Meadow View to spend a bit of time with Mom and give her communion.   Dolores and Ken were there when I got there.   Then when I got back from giving the sacrament to the other residents, Jeff, Kathy, Sarah and Shane were there, so I just stayed for a little bit and got the bills all figured out.    She will be down to just Meadow View and doctors soon.

I picked up Sy Regan after stopping at Perkins for a sandwich and we went to the Sheboygan County Writers.  I picked up another reader for next Monday.   Just a couple of slots left now.

So I am pretty sore now, always am in the evening so I will go to bed.   The MRI is tomorrow afternoon.   I start taking pills at 1:30AM so have set the alarm.

Til tomorrow
Dia Dhuit
Mary

Saturday

I went for a walk just before lunch.    I am trying to get out at least three times a week, more if possible and I walk for about a half an hour.   It isn't much fun without a doggie, but I do run into people in the neighborhood here and there so it is not too lonely.

I do like looking around at nature and hearing the sounds of the birds and today, the bats at the baseball fields.   The sound of the bats make me remember fondly when Bart and Bret played ball.   Those were happy days for me and I think for them.    We spend most afternoons and evenings at a practice or game during that season.   I was always so proud to see my boys playing and flowering.  Good exercise and other skills.

I did a lot of scheduling for Bloomsday.  Still could use some readers.  Can I tempt anybody?  Things are coming together.  

I went to Mass at 4PM.   I got a call to substitute for a Eucharistic Minister so got to give communion  again.   I am assigned to next week.   I love that and fear that if I have surgery, I will be unable to for at least several weeks.   Oh well. 

Tomorrow I will finish up the board minutes for Tallgrass and work on a chapter of the "book"   It is moving slowly now.   When I take the quotation marks off you will know that it is no longer a chore.

We are supposed to get some rain tonight.   I really hope so.  It would be just a nice treat for the pots I have planted.   I have way too much chives so am going to thin them a bit.   Still no sign of Oregano though.   I am so shocked.   I thought it was impossible to kill oregano.   It is kind of like Lemon Balm.  Once it take root, it is a forever plant.

So.  Sleep tight.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

Today was beautiful.   I had the doors and open for most of the day.

Sorry I didn't do anything yesterday.   I just felt rather funky and down.   I had an appointment for an MRI for Thursday morning.   When I got there they discovered that since I have a reaction to iodine, which the nurse should have caught and ordered a  regimen of pills to take so I would not break out in hives, I could not do the procedure then.   We have had to put it off until Tuesday of next week, which is when I was SUPPOSED to see Dr. Fehrman to see if there is anything that can be done.    I just want to know.   If they can't do anything, then I learn to live with it.  One of my faults is that I get pictures and deadlines in my head and as Dick used to say,   Change is BAD.   Oh Well.   I am over my snit now and will just keep plugging along.

Today as I said was gorgeous.    Roxie and I sat out on the deck for a while this morning.    This evening, I went to the Plymouth Arts Center for the opening of their new show, an annual juried exhibition called Alive in the Arts.   Several familiar artists were in the show, notably, my cousin Joseph Bowser.    None of my friends got the awards, though I knew they were the best.

I had met Kate down there and ran into lots of other friends as I knew I would.   

Did I tell you that Jeff brought me some tomato plants and I have them safely planted in the front garden to which I added compost and manure this year which I hope will give them an extra boost.

The weekend should be quiet.   Mass tomorrow and home the rest of the days.

I have plenty to do.    Just have to get too it.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Quite a day.  Roxie tried to wake me up at 5AM again.   But it did not work.  I woke up around 6 and went in to feed her and turn on my coffee.  

The morning was quiet.  I worked on various projects until it was time to leave to meet Jeff and John Wenig at the funeral home.   We set up a trust for Mom for her funeral.   I told Mom yesterday that I was going to the Funeral home and she asked me who's funeral.   I started laughing and  told her it was hers.   She laughed too.   We are setting up a trust for her funeral so that no matter what , she will have the funeral she wants.   Hopefully, it will not be soon.   I know that she does not necessarily feel that way.  I know that she is tired.

Then I went to the bank and the grocery store and home.

Tomorrow I will be home all day.   I intend to write a bit and just get my strength up for the next few days with the MRI and then the followup next Tuesday with Dr. Fehrman.  It is just that the arm aches most of the time.  If it can't be fixed, I need to know so that I can come to grips with it.

Jeff brought me three tomato plants so I will plant them in the front tomorrow.   I mixed in some compost and manure, so I hope they will do better this year.

Everything looks good actually.   After all the winter, it is good to finally see life.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It rained yesterday and today.   Today, it started just pouring while I was visiting Mother around lunch time.    It was a bit chilly during the rain, but when the rain stopped it immediately started to heat up and get humid.   

I am thinking that Roxie is not feeling too well.   She tried to wake me up at about 5AM, then went back to sleep with me and I woke her up at 7AM.  Now if she would just get up at 7AM EVERY morning, I think that would be very civilized.

We had Bible Study this morning after a week off because of Memorial Day.   We are in Acts of the Apostles, as I told you.   The Sunday readings are also including a reading from Acts.  Today, we got to the part where Paul was converted.   It is pretty dramatic, as he gets struck blind and thrown off of his horse.   Blindness is a hard thing to cope with.   We talked a bit about that.    One of our members, Tom, just had eye surgery.   He is healing, but it is slow.   We are all just praying for a complete recovery of sight for him.  So. you add your prayers too.  

Then I went to spend some time with Mom next.   She was really good today.    I told her all about the trip to the Marion Shrine near Green Bay and gave her a book about the shrine.   I picked up a children's book.  As I told her the print is larger and she can read that.   I also brought her a picture of me and Bishop Hying.   I went with a group of St. Vincent de Paul members and Bishop Hying is the spiritual leader of the St Vincents here.   I stayed til lunch time.   I helped her to her table and then came home.

Spent the afternoon writing and resting.  My arm and shoulder made me rest.

Tomorrow I will see Jeff and Kathy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

June 1

A quiet Sunday.   It was warm but pleasant most of the day.   Roxie and I spent an hour or so on the deck in back.   I read and Roxie napped and surveyed her domain.

I also finished the first draft of my St. Piran chapter of the Saint book.

Kind of satisfying.

Tomorrow Bible Study after a two week hiatus.   I will be wearing a new TShirt I bought at the Marion Shrine.   It says.   I am to Die For.   Just ask Jesus.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, it was a quiet day and a nice early evening.

It was rather warm.   I lift the doors open until it got into the mid 70s.   After that, this house just gets too warm and stays that way.

I worked on the book this morning and went through the books.   I am giving lots of them to St. Vinny's.   If anybody would like to go through them first, let me know.

A nice mass this evening.   I was the lector today.   My second time at St. John's.   I kind of like doing that.   Kate had called last night and asked if I would like to go to dinner with her after Mass.    I took communion to Tom and Rita and then met her at Antonettes.   We had a nice dinner and a good visit.   She was treating me for a belated birthday present, which was very sweet.  

The evenings are always long for me and this helped.

Til tomorrow.   If anybody wants to volunteer to read some of Ulysses on the 16th, I would be SO happy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I seem to have neglected the blog.

This has been a strange and busy week.  

I think I mentioned that I was going on a day trip to the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help not too far from Green Bay near Champion.    Our Lady appeared to a young Belgian girl name Adele Brise in 1859.     Just recently the sighting with the work of Bishop David Ricken, was declared worthy of belief by the Catholic peoples.    During the Pestigo fire, the 6 acres that are the site of the shrine, were saved from burning by the believers marching around the site with a statue of Our Lady.   Not a soul within the area was hurt and they say the grass and trees were emerald green amid the blackened ground that surrounded it.    I have been wanting to go to the shrine and a friend who is a St. Vincent volunteer invited me to come on their tour.   Bishop Hyink was on the tour also.   It was a wonderful day.

Wednesday I had a doctor appointment with Dr. Leben.   My shoulder and arm are getting much worse.   She has concluded that the shots are not providing long enough relief, so is referring me to a surgeon, Dr. Fehrman.  He was Dick's doctor.   I know that my range of motion is diminishing and that I am hurting more and having trouble sleeping.   I had an x ray done on Wednesday and will have an MRI on the 5th then I will see Dr. Fehrman on the 10th to see what can be done.

Yesterday was all a flutter as we closed on Mom's home then.    It is such a relief that it went smoothly and quickly.    I am sure Mom has mixed feelings but I know that she is very happy that the neighbors bought it.   They stopped to see her last week and she told them that if they had any questions about anything they should not hesitate to come and ask her.  But not having to think about maintaining or having us maintain the house will be a relief to her.

Today, I had lunch with the bank ladies and then passed out several posters for the Bloomsday event.
Anybody want to spend an hour reading on June 16th.

So that is all for now.   I have started walking of an evening.   It really does not seem proper without a doggie, but I am doing it anyway.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a day.    I left, in beautiful weather, for St. Fridolin's Church in Glenbeulah.   The Memorial Day Mass was held there.   St. Fridolin's is only a chapel now, like St. Michaels is to Shepherd of the Hills.   It is nice to have a service there every so often.   It is a lovely little church.   There was a nice crowd there too.   I picked up the hosts that I needed to take to Mother and her fellow Catholic residents at Meadow View.    I had to go around twice, once when I got there and once later as a couple of them were asleep.  There is one new lady just down from Mother too.

She and I had a nice visit.   John and Holly came in with Jack and Sam while I was there.   They are almost walking alone and growing like weeds.   They are a couple of very handsome dudes.   I love seeing the babies.

Home again, I have been working on the book and cleaning things in the garage and house.  
There is so much to do.     Tonight I fried some brats and venison steaks outside.  So I have meals for the next week that just need sides.

Tomorrow I am going on a bus trip from St. Peter Claver to the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help in Champion, one of the places that is supposed to be dear to Our Lady.   I have been wanting to go and a friend told me about this trip.   The only instructions.   To bring your rosary.   Lunch is provided too.

So. I will go to bed at my usual early time and read as I have to be at St.Peter Claver's at 7:45AM. 

I never have to worry about WAKING up, Roxie takes care of that.

Dia Dhuit

Mary


Philip Neri prayed, "Let me get through today, and I shall not fear tomorrow."

It was a beautiful day. The sun shone and the temperatures were up in the 70s most of the day. It was Sunday so I decided to treat it as such. This morning I finished the hard work about my "gardening" by putting the compost/manure in the bed in the front that I will plant my tomatoes in. I did put the basil in the bed . I know a little and am sure that tomato and basil make good companion plants. I watered everything that needed watering and spent the rest of the day watering and washing clothes. Tomorrow is Memorial day. I am going to Mass at St. Fridolin's parish in Glenbeulah and will bring communion from the mass to MeadowView for Mom and her companion residents. This afternoon, I sat out on the deck for quite a while reading with my Roxie enjoying the fresh air and sunshine too. She does like to be out there. So until tomorrow Dia Dhuit Mary

I am still trying to get pictures from Picasa to the blog. I can drag but they are huge and upside down. I can make them smaller but can't turn them right sized up. Oh well, one of these days I will get it.

What a beautiful day it was. The sun shone and the temperatures were in the low 70s. The sky was brilliant with the green of the trees breathtaking against the blue. I spent a portion of the day planting my pots for the front and the deck. Tomorrow I will put the compost manure into the bed that will hold my tomatoes. I hope it will give them more life and help them produce more fruit. I am cleaning the garage in portions too. Trying not to overdo as my arm and shoulder WILL NOT stop hurting. I hate it. I went to Mass at 4PM. Aunt Kathleen was out at the Lake property that she and Bob owned. So she came to the Mass. I saw her come in and went to sit with her. I was also a communion minister so the Mass was double special for me. It became even more special when Fr. Dan blessed all of our veterans at the conclusion of the mass because of the Memorial Day weekend. I have the flag and marker from the VA in my planter in front. I am so happy, it is for Dad and Dick in front of my home. Bless you all Dia Dhuit Mary

A pretty typical Friday.    I got my Condo papers all done and in order.

I did a lot for the Bloomsday event.

I went to the DQ for lunch with my friends.

A satisfying day all together.

I am tired so am going to bed early.   I did plant a few of the plants that I picked up at Moraine Gardens yesterda and will do a little more tomorrow and the next day.   Nothing too much planed so I can take my time.

Til later

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I have had a nice birthday

Started off not all that exciting.   I had to take Roxie to see Dr. Connors for her blood test.   Her meds are balanced now.    We will recheck in six weeks to be sure that we are OK.

Then I went to Klips and Tips and got my hair cut.   I was starting to look like Justin Bieber again.   Didn't mind that a couple of years ago before he started all his silly shenanigans but surely don't want to have his haircut now.

Then I was home all day.    This afternoon, flowers arrived from Richard and Brenda.   They are so beautiful.   I had to remind Roxie that they are not for her.  I received lots of cards today and actually since Monday.   So nice to be remembered.  I called Richard and Brenda when I figured they would be home and told them how pretty the flowers are.  They are going on a vacation to St. Louis over the Memorial Day holiday.   Should be a good weekend for that.

Leslie and Bill called a bit ago and we had a great visit too.   Leslie will not need knee surgery, at least for now.   They are trying a series of shots to see if that will help first.   Always better not to invade the body with a knife if possible.    Bill said they are coming up here next year to take me out for my 75th birthday.   I told him I am marking it on the calendar.  When Leslie's knees are good enough we will travel together too.   Every body can come.

I fixed myself a couple of good meals and even pulled out a chocolate cupcake and lit a candle for a birthday cake.   I am a happy girl.

I am finishing up my day with a nice shot of Bailey's with my coffee on the side.

Love you all
Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another full day

I had decided to go to the Exchange Bank for breakfast this morning.   I let the Celtic people know as sometimes I get company.   This morning I DID.   My friend, Janet Bieschke, joined me and had a birthday card and greeting.  She gave me a scone mix which I put together when I got home.

I did my grocery shopping and post office stop before coming home.   Then I had several phone calls and reports to get done.  At. about 1PM, I drove to the Veterans Office in Sheboygan and made sure that Dad's service in the Wisconsin National Guard was recognized.   They gave me a grave marker and flag.   I found out that Doug apparently got one already, probably through the Legion so I will keep this one.   Then I stopped at Mom's and helped Kathy and Jeff who were cleaning and emptying out the house more.   I swear that things are multiplying in there.

We got a lot ready for trash and two loads to Goodwill.  

I got home at about 4:30PM, had a snack at 5 then went over to Generations here in Plymouth.   The building was being used for a fundraiser for the Gathering Place, a day care for Alzeimer patients in Sheboygan Falls.    Lucky me.  I bid on several silent auction items and ended up with three.   They are clock variations and will actually make nice gifts.   Especially with the stories that go with them.

Now it is time for bed.   Tomorrow Roxie has a doctor appointment.   (She is really going to be angry.)   I also have a hair cut.

So I need to get to bed as I will have to get up with Roxie.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Arg! Mondays are too busy

I am almost caught up though.

I went to Bible Study at 9:30AM.   We will not have it next week because of Memorial Day.  Then I went directly to see Mom.    I had lunch with her and the best visit.

After I left her, I drove to the Veterans Association because I am trying to get Dad recognized for his time in the WI National Guard when he was young.    I know that Mother and he would be so proud to have a flag on his grave on the national holidays. 

Then I went to Wenig Funeral Home to talk to John about planning Mom's funeral and getting those funds in trust so that she can have exactly what she wants.   I will now share this with her and Jeff and Randy as the executors.

Then home and I took a short nap before transcribing the minutes of the Tallgrass Membership meeting.   Now it is 8:30PM.

Wow.  So I will go to bed and read for a bit.

I got my first birthday card today.   Thank you Richard and Brenda.   I LOVE the card.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A concert

Busy Day ending with the Return to Broadway concert at the Plymouth Arts Center.   We had a pretty full house and I understand there are more reserved for tomorrow.  It is so encouraging to us, a once a year singing group.   I love the selection we have this year.  ( Except for Ring ting a ling Rosie).

The audience was very enthusiastic which made our singing even more fun.

I am tired though and have a very very full day tomorrow with three meetings, including the concert.

Bobbie, I will leave your tickets on the counter unless you have some other way you want to get them.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Last Practice

Just got back from our last practice for the Return to Broadway show that "we" Plymouth Arts Center Players are putting on tomorrow and Saturday nights.   An extra long practice because we had to get through everything.

I missed a call from Richard and Brenda, darn, but we will catch up later.   The next two evenings are busy, of course, but Sunday is quiet.   Haven't had much down time since New York and that was certainly a hoppin' good time.

I don't know if I told you that Vikki and I went to see the taping of an episode of the Chew.   That is one of the shows I do usually watch.   It is a cooking show and is on at noon when I usually lunch and find it fun.   I was able to have my picture taken with Clinton Kelly and with Michael Symon.  When I figure out why I am having trouble putting pictures on  the Blog I will post them.   They featured recipes for Mothers Day brunches.  Jenny Mc Carthy was their guest star and everybody got a copy of her new book, Stirring the Pot.  A lot of fun.    I have to view it on the net before they take it off to see if Vikki and I appeared in any of the audience shots. 

Anyway I am all ready for the Tallgrass Condo Membership meeting on Saturday at 10AM.  I think you all know that I am the secretary.   That will make the day REALLY busy as CWI will be having their book discussion group at 1PM and we will have our final concert in the evening.

One step at a time.   Things will settle down a bit as summer comes around.

Dia Dhuit

I love you all

Mary

Hi

At least the day was quiet.   It was also productive.    I am almost all ready for the Tall Grass Condo meeting on Saturday.   Just need a couple of check in volunteers.   Tomorrow, I will be most of the day on the phone.

Not only do I need those volunteers, but am looking for readers for Bloomsday, June 16, 2014.    I think I told you that the CWI and my friend Paul Hansen are expanding my little dinner with random readings from Joyce's Ulysses, which is the basis of Bloomsday, and planning a reading of the whole book starting at midnight.  This is done in several venues around the world.   Tomorrow I will be making a bunch of calls and writing up a press release to start interest in the event.

I am trying to figure out why I can't download pictures from Picasa to Blogger.   I got some hints from a trouble shooter and will try again tomorrow.

I told you that Vikki and I took the Ferry to Ellis Island and to the "Lady in the Bay".    We walked up over 197 steps to the observation deck at the base of the statue.   I have lots of pictures.   I was really dragging when we got to the top and took an elevator down.   I felt somewhat like I was taking a couple of pictures up Lady Liberty's skirt which does not seem quite proper.   She sure is impressive.

Tonight I picked up Sy for the last of the Poet's at Mead meetings until September.   We had the biggest group ever, 19.   Nice meeting with LOTS of good poetry.   I read the one that will be in the 2015 Poet's Calendar.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi

Late again.  

I am so tired.    Today was a usual Monday after the busy wonderful exhausting trip to NYC.  I fully intended to enclose some pictures, but blogger is not wanting to send them and I am to tired to figure out why.

Tomorrow I will have more time.    Today, I went to Bible Study,  Lunch at the Point with my 1958 HS classmates, drove to see Mom and tonight practiced for the weekend 's show Return to Broadway at the Plymouth Arts Center.   Tickets can be purchased at the door or let me know.   The shows start at 7:30PM both Friday and Saturday.  (Bobbie I have yours and Bill's here.   We can talk about you getting them.) 

Practice is tough, especially tonight.   But it always seems to work out.

A bit more about NY.   On Thursday, Vikki and I went to Battery Park and took the ferry to "the Lady in the Bay" and to Ellis Island.    On Ellis Island, I took pictures of the names, Michael J. Deeley and Ernest Kunert that are inscribed on the wall in the garden.  Dick and I sent money for the fundraiser that Lee Iacoca ran to restore Ellis Island and got the names on the wall.   We also have certificates about it.

I will send pictures an more detail tomorrow.   We, Vikki, Sara and I, can hardly wait for the Tony Awards to see how the play the Cripple of Inishman does.   We saw it on Friday Night.  Danial Radcliffe is the star and it was so good.   A really well done dark Irish comedy.  I was so glad that the girls got it.  Not everybody "gets" that type of play.

So Now to bed to bed.   It rained and thundered part of the morning and really bad last night.   But the rain is supposed to stay south tonight.   At least my tulips and daffodils are starting to bloom.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Home again

First -  A very happy Mother's Day to all of the mother's who read my blog.   I was traveling for most of it but that is OK.   Shortly after I got home, Bobbie and Bill brought Roxie home.   She is so silly.   At first she wandered around and just wailed .   I think she was kind of relieved, though she did fine at her Kitty Camp.   I guess there was a terrible thunderstorm on Wednesday night and she yelled at Bobbie until she got up.

She seems fine now and is sleeping quite contentedly on the desk.   I fixed bacon and egg for supper and gave her a bit of that.   She loves that and I decided that she needed a treat.

Anyway,   we had a great vacation.   Vikki and I got there early evening of the 7th.   I will never ever take the Super Shuttle again.   It was HORRIBLE.  They are not on time, they are rude.   We didn't even use the return ride because I didn't feel that we could rely in them.

However, when we got to the Sheriton, my friend Mary Pat Kelly was waiting for us.   We got ourselves checked in and then went across the street to Rosie OGrady's for a drink and something to eat.  I was so glad that I was able to connect with Mary Pat.   She is a good friend.  Her new book will be out in February.   I am so excited to read it.

I will tell you the rest tomorrow.  Adding in our Sarah Deeley and all the sights we saw.   I carried my sweetie in my heart too.  This was a trip WE had planned on doing together.    I smiled for the whole time.  

Bless you all.   I am sore from walking but had the very best time.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Here I go.

You won't be hearing from me until Sunday evening.    I think you all know that but just in case, this is your notice.

I will be picked up at 8:30AM to go to Mitchell to catch a plane to New York City for a bucket list adventure.   I will be meeting my nieces, Vikki and Sarah and getting to see my friend, Mary Pat.

I can hardly wait.   I have made some reservations for some of the sites that I want to go to and have the reservations for a play.  We will be able to shop and look at places like Grand Central Station and I want to go to Mass on Saturday night at St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Today was busy but doable.   I had an eye doctor appointment at 10:15AM so did my errands then . 
After lunch I took Roxie to Bobbie's for Kitty Camp.   She doesn't like the drive, but was perfectly fine when she got there.   She made sure that the litter box was in its proper place and filled and checked out a couple of her favorite resting spots.     Bobbie and Bill will bring her back on Sunday so that she is here to greet me.    I miss her tonight.   It is odd not to have a living creature in the house.

So until I post again, may God be gentle with you and keep you safe.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This will be short and sweet.   It is after 9PM (when I turn into a pumpkin) and I just walked in from about 2 1/2 hours of singing, practice for the Broadway Music show that I  am participating in.   I also had bible study this morning, spent time with Mom and made some final tweaks for New York.

So I am going to bed.

If anybody wants tickets for the show,  We will perform two times.    On Friday the 16th at 7:30PM and on Saturday the 17th at 7:30.   Tickets are $12 for members and $16 for non members.   But I can get them for you for $12.  Just let me know.

So I am going to bed to see if my body will unache.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a really nice day.    I spent the morning preparing Mexican scones and cheese enchilada stacks to take to the Kunert Tres De Mayo that Suzi Rau, Dick's niece had organized.  

Bobbie and Bill let me ride there with them.   I was so glad.   We had a good visit on the way.   The weather was nice, not really hot but the sun was shining and there were pretty clouds swimming in the blue sky which made it pleasant.

We got there shortly after 3PM, arriving just as Richard and Brenda did.  Lots of the family there.  Some who I have met before and several that I had not.     They are, as they say also, a strange family where the previous generation just did not get together and they are becoming closer now.   Now is so good, they are lovely, warm and interesting people.   I don't want to lose them.   They did point out that I am the only aunt they have left.  

Anyway, A wonderful afternoon.

Until tomorrow then.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Friday

It was a chilly and drizzly day.   I don't believe that the temperatures went above 48 degrees and chilly.   We are supposed to be getting better temperatures and generally good days within the week.  I saw 75 degrees.  That would be a pleasure

A friend of mine saw worms all over her driveway and deck so I will count that as my third sign of spring.  

I was able to be home all day and do wash and prepare for New York and catch up on email.

Tomorrow is a party.  Suzi is having a "Tres de Mayo" at her home.  I will be riding down to Sussex with Bobbie and Bill.  Yea.  I really did not want to drive myself but felt that I wanted to go.

I am making cheese enchilada stacks.   I made the sauce today so tomorrow I will assemble them for baking.   I love stacks because you can just cut them in wedges like a pie.   Thank you, Tomi Kendall, up there in heaven for the recipe.

Tomorrow is Bart and Barb's anniversary.   Bart sent flowers today so that she could get them at work.   Good for you, my Bart.    I love you.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Another day gone by.   I did manage to get a bit done.   I worked on the Bloomsday project, worked a bit more on New York,  and sorted a bunch of stuff out.

I am still a bit beat from the tooth pulling, but am at least making some progress.   I got someone to sub for me for Communion minister on Saturday as I am going to Suzi's for a Tres de Mayo Kunert party.  That should be a fun way to spend an afternoon and evening.

Don't have any other real news so I will sign off now, at least I found the poem below to share.   I have heard it before but it is a good one.

 

Dia Dhuit

 

Mary

 

 The Pig

by Anonymous

It was the first of May
A lovely warm spring day
I was strolling down the street in drunken pride,
But my knees were all a-flutter,
And I landed in the gutter
And a pig came up and lay down by my side.

Yes, I lay there in the gutter
Thinking thoughts I could not utter
When a lady passing by did softly say
'You can tell a man who boozes
By the company he chooses' — And the pig got up and slowly walked away.
"The Pig" by Anonymous. Public domain.

Well, I woke up this morning and felt awful, so I got ready and rested until I had to take Roxie for her  Vet Visit.    She is fine, I have to adjust her pills a bit but Dr. Conners is very pleased with her.

Later I went grocery shopping.  Then I spent the afternoon resting for a while because I went to the Black Pig in Elkhart Lake with fellow Tallgrass residents.    Had a good meal.   They have a whole section of mac and cheese so I chose one of them as being good with my empty tooth socket.

I got a lot of CWI and Traveling items taken care of today too.

Tomorrow I am home all day. 

I am still a bit weak from the tooth thing, so will get rested up for the weekend.

Anyway, I am healing and will continue taking care of myself.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, Here it is evening.   I had a tooth removed this afternoon.   I planned my day so so that I could just rest when I got home.

I am glad.   I am very tired and now that the numbness is wearing off I have a slight headache and of course soreness in my mouth.  I believe that I will just call it very early, take a pain pill and go to bed.

I can read and write and just baby me for a bit.   I had a yogurt and am drinking water to keep it moist.  

Tomorrow morning Roxie goes to the doctor for a followup on her meds.  I will do a bit of grocery shopping and be able tospend the rest of the day finishing up computer projects for New York, the Gathering and for Bloomsday.

By Thursday I should be feeling better.

Wish me quick healing.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A late practice

Not really too late, but standing for over two hours with only one break is really wearing my knees.   The practice went well, I think.   I marked the areas that I feel weak on and should have more time this week to go over them.   It is really nice music.   If you are going, let me know, I can get tickets for PAC member price which saves three bucks.

I had my usual busy Monday morning.   Went to Bible Study at 9:30AM, going just a bit early so that I could pick up the hosts to take to Meadow View for the residents.   We had an almost full crew.   Only Peggy was unable to come.   We are on the part of ACTS where the disciples are going out and evangelizing.   We were commenting that it is interesting that the Diocese is stressing evangelism at this time too.

Then I drove to see Mom.   I brought her a bottle of wine from Lincolnshire and found out that she has not been getting her glass before going to bed.   So I went down and talked to the desk and the social director.   They are supposed to get it back on the orders.   I will check again on Monday with Mom or sooner if I do happen to stop by.  She still has over a bottle, so I will bring this when the other is low. 
We had a good visit.   While talking about her liking her glass of wine before bed, she remembered that Grandpa John Bowser liked his shot of brandy before bed.   And I remembered Grandpa Mike Deeley having his "medicine" in the morning.   A shot of whiskey.   They really didn't drink otherwise, except socially.   I am sure it was good for them.  They did live into their nineties.

I then met Paul Hanson for lunch as we are planning a rather unique Bloomsday, with the whole book being read from Midnight to Midnight.   Things are coming together and we should be OK with a serious recap of everything in mid may.   Bloomsday is June 16th.  This reading of the whole book is done in several venues. around the world.

So now I am home, and tired.   I made Roxie take her pill but did give her a little treat.

Pray for me tomorrow.  I am having a tooth pulled.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A full and fun weekend.  The CWI Gathering was well worth my time.   

Left here at about 10AM to get to Lincolnshire in time for the board meeting.   Betty had found some wonderful speakers Soe Kiethley reading from her book The calling of Mother Adelli , Frank Crowley on the Book of Cells and Mary Wagner on It's Never to Late to Make a Midlife Correction.   We ate at fabulous restaurants.   Our business meetings went well.   I am no longer a member of the board, having served two terms and being ready to drop off.  We have four new board members who are dynamic and they have chosen the new executive board.

Altogether a happy an successful weekend.

I am however, exhausted and will be going to bed early as tomorrow will be a typically busy Monday.

So I am home save and sound and content.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just a note to remind you that I will be gone.  I will be leaving tomorrow morning and be back Sunday afternoon.   Roxie is upset.

The only excitement today was getting my tire changed.   I spent the rest of it getting ready for tomorrow and the next week.

So have a great weekend,  I intend to.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

From Brother Cadfael's Book of Days by Robin Whiteman based on Ellis Peters.

" You'll never get to be a saint if you deny the bit of the devil in you."

Took the car for service this morning at 8AM.  They did the oil change and all and rotated the tires.   They found a bulge on one of the tires, so I have to buy a new one.   Ich.  It is not under warranty because, I obviously hit a curb or something oddly - with all the snow and ice I can't say, but did have a couple of odd things happen because of it.

They are getting one in the morning so I can have it changed before I head for Lincolnshire on Friday.

I Did a couple of other errands as long as I was out and then spent the day getting things ready for the trip and the meeting.

Not all that exciting but easy to do.   I am also trying to be rested for the drive on Friday.

Bret called tonight.  He is fine.  He and about 20 of his friends are going to Capo San Lucas for the weekend to celebrate some birthdays, then he will go out to the River property for the last half of an whole week's vacation.  He sounds very happy.   He and Janet are together again.  

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Tuesday

Today, I attended the last of the six meetings we had at St. John's using the book Rediscover Catholicism.   We had some exciting discussions and are thinking of extending the meetings as they are interesting.   This is how the Bible Study group at Blessed Trinity came about.   We had a book discussion during Lent and decided to just keep meeting.   So it can be done.

Then I came home and am working on getting all together for the weekend at the CWI Gathering.   I am looking forward to getting away with my friends.

Richard and Brenda called tonight, a wonderful surprise.   I love having someone to talk to of an evening.   They are well  and will probably go to Dick's niece, Suzi's home on March 3 for a Mexican meal with Kunerts.   Bobbie and Bill are talking about going too.   It should be a nice family day.

That was all that happened that was exciting.  

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary 

Whew

I just got home from Spring Concert practice.   It is almost my bedtime.   I am having a nice cup of ginger tea and then going to bed.

I left a bit early for Sheboygan Falls so that I could be sure to be in time to pick up the hosts to take with me to Meadow View Manor when I went to visit Mom.   Those holy dusters are usually done and have the sacristy locked up before we are done with Bible Study.    There were eight of us there today.   I had to catch up because I was not there last week.   We are getting into the persecution by Saul, later Paul and seeing the beginning of the disciples going out to spread the good news beyond Israel.   The Acts are really rather exciting.

Then I went to see Mom.   She looked a bit tired but seems well.   Over the weekend, she went to a musical program that they brought in.   Dolores and Ken went with her and Rita said she seemed to enjoy it.

We had a nice visit.   I left about the time she was going to lunch because I had a Cream City Writers Club meeting at 1PM.  I stopped at the Exchange Bank for a cup of coffee and a sandwich.  Met my friend Peggy there.   We had nine writers there.   The trouble with this club is that we have a lot of non writing chatter going on.   But I will keep going when I can for Beverly and Lynn.   We heard some good writing today.  Lynn, and Craig and Don and Bev all read some good stuff.

Home again, I took care of some Tallgrass business and some CWI conference business, then had supper and went to the practice.   We only have three more practices before dress rehearsal.   It always seems like there is SO much yet to do.

Anyway time for bed. 

Until tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary



Safe

May those who believe
Never fear the unknown path
That lies beyond death.

Good Friday come and almost gone.   I spent a quiet morning just sorting things and working on the kitchen to be ready for baking tomorrow.  I am looking forward to Bobbie and Bill coming for dinner on Sunday.   If anyone else is in the neighborhood, stop by.   Come by at about noon, so we can visit and snack before dinner.  I figure dinner at one.  (I made up my mind, Bobbie.)

The Good Friday serviced started at 1PM at St. Johns.    It was a very nice service.   The main choir sang and were very good.   I went with my neighbor, Jean.   It was the usual service.   The readings, the adoration of the cross and then communion.   I was communion minister and will be again on Sunday Morning at 8AM.   Jean and I were commenting, that years ago, the Good Friday services started at noon and were over at 3PM.   Neither of us can remember what was different, but there must have been a lot more to it.   I remember that when I was younger, every business closed down between 12PM and 3PM on Good Friday.   Eventually, the business started letting people off to go to services and eventually, this is a rare thing too.    Too bad.  There was a goodness and kindness in those days that doesn't exist now.

This evening I drove out to Rhine to have my new grips put on my Buckmark.   I could have done it myself but felt better if one of the guys who knows guns better did it for me.    Larry put them on and they are really pretty.  I can tell that the grip will be more comfortable.   I did not shoot as there was league going on and a lot of shooters.   I will go out some Sunday to just practice, especially during the summer so that I can shoot again in the Fall.

A quiet day tomorrow. 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Easter time sure gets busy.

Yesterday just got away from me.  I had to go into Sheboygan to have the dentist who fixed my root canal a couple of months ago xray to be sure that all is well.  It is.

I did my grocery shopping on the way home.   So I am all set for Easter dinner.   I will be baking on Saturday.   A carrot cake and I will mix the hot cross buns.   I can make them the day ahead and then bake them Sunday morning so they will be warm and fresh.

My neighbor Jean called and asked if I wanted to go to the Holy Thursday services with her.   I had not planned on going but since she asked, I said sure.   I have not gone to this particular service for a couple of years.   It is a very lovely service and full of symbolism.   I am glad that I went.   Tomorrow I will go to the Good Friday service.  I will be a Eucharistic Minister and am glad to be able to be a part of it.

I packed boxes to send to the out of state family with memories of Mother's house.  It looks like the house will close in a week or two.  

I also went to Generations and did the Arthritis Exercises again.   I think it is OK.   Perhaps I am doing too much right arm, but I do stop if it starts to hurt.

Anyway.   It is still much too chilly around here.  But at least I am seeing some green crocus and daffodil shoots peeking out of the earth.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I have been going since 7:30AM this morning, when I drove in to Falls to pick up communion from Blessed Trinity for Mom and the other Catholic residents at Meadow View.

I had to come back to Plymouth for a Condo Board meeting and then went to Meadow View to distribute the host and to have a visit with Mom.   We had a good visit.   She seemed to feel really good today.

Then I picked up Sy Regan and went to the Sheboygan County Writers Club meeting from 1PM to 3PM.

I got home in time to check the mail, make a few phone calls and then  go to practice for the Spring Concert at Redeemer.

I am so tired that this is all you are getting from me.

I should have a quieter day, though I do have to go to the dentist.  I have a toothache.  Darn.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Dinner Theatre

Today Bobbie, Bill and I went to the Memories Dinner Theatre in Port Washington for the third play  of my Christmas Gift.   Always a good way to spend an afternoon.   I got to hear about the trip to Louisiana to visit Leslie and Bill.  It was kind of foggy and started raining, though not heavily on the way home.

We had a good dinner.   Fried chicken, pork, mashed potatoes, spaetzle, warm apple, and mixed veggies.    The table is always set with a fresh salad when you come in to the theatre and after a while, just before dinner is announced, they bring out their famous FLUFF.   Always different, it is a cream cheese, whipped topping, fresh fruit and sugar concoction which does taste good and they always give the recipe.   Seems more like a dessert though and we wonder why we get it before the meal.   They always have a dessert at intermission anyway.   Today is was bread pudding with pretzel topping.   Scrumptious.

The play was Showtime at First Baptist.   A play that was new to us.   We were told that it was a sequel but it was also stand alone.   About 6 women at this Baptist Church who face tragedy with love and humor while showing all their human bumps.   It was delightful.                         

So that was the day.   I have to get up early tomorrow because I have a meeting at 8:30AM here in the condo complex and have to go to Blessed Trinity in the morning to pick up communion for Mom and the other Catholic residents at Meadow View.  I would go to St. John's but I don't know if anyone will be at the church a the time I need it so I will go with what I know.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Rain and Thunder

Some friends and I have been saying that we really needed a thunderstorm to wake the trees and seeds and the worms up after this long cold winter.    Well, we got it today.   I was out quite a bit and was fortunate to be either IN the car or in a building when the rains and thunder became their strongest.

I had to be at Ebco at 10 to man the place until 1PM.  I arrived shortly before Ray Hagerman with his dog, Chance, and the key did and was by the door with a gentle mist coming down.   My friend, Paul Hanson, and one of his charges came before the door opened also.  There were two ladies, that came in a bit later, friends of Georgia Ressmeier and after a bit, Joseph and Felicia Reindl and their friend Paul came to see the exhibit.    So I had people to visit with, besides Ray and Chance.   I did have a bit of time to sit and do some writing also.   It was a pleasant morning.

I got home about 2 and had a lunch then working on the several projects that I seem to have going at once.

I went to the 4PM Mass.  It was a Palm Sunday mass on Saturday.   I remembered to bring a blessed palm for Rita and Tom along with their communion. 

A quiet night, good, because I want to go to bed and read with the rain and thunder booming around the house. 

So, until tomorrow.   When I am going to a play with Bobbie and Bill. 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

If drinking and driving is illegal, why do bars have parking lots?

Friday Finally

What a day.   I saw Dr. Fehrman this morning.   He says my foot is healing very well.   In three months or so, the color should be normal, the last of the soreness will be gone and my other joints will settle down when I can stop favoring the foot.

Then I took the offer to purchase on Mom's house that Leon had faxed to me to Mother for her signature.   Dolores and Ken were with her so we all helped her review and sign it.   Then I took it to Warren, Mom's neighbor, who is the buyer.   Then home again.

I left again at 12:30PM to have lunch with my bank friends.   I spent the afternoon with phone calls and paying Mom's and my bills.  This evening I drove over to Rhine to visit my friends there and let them know that I will be back to shoot as soon as I have the new grips for the gun.  I will not shoot again until I know that I am safe.

I am home AGAIN and will stay here until morning.  Barbara called.   She got in touch with Jennifer Hiner, my nephew Todd's wife and found out that Dick is home but still having difficulty breathing.  Also Jacquie has been in emergency for hours .  She has a bladder infection and it looks like she might be admitted again.   Dick should not really be home alone in his condition.   He is being checked on as often as possible.   Bart will be there on Monday, and will be able to at least help his father with decisions.

Please pray. 

Dia dhuit

I am sharing a message that a friend sent me on Facebook.  Enjoy

Mary

Whew

This was supposed to be my only quiet day of the week.   It got a bit goofy.  Actually the morning was pretty quiet.

I got up at about 7:30AM and spent the morning doing some wash, working in the kitchen and on some desk projects.   I even got the grips for my gun ordered.   I think I told you that I have right handed grips and I am now shooting left handed.   I know, I know, but I have to use my left hand because my right arm is still sore, and I have found out that I am after all this time I am left eye dominant.   So after calling various stores that sell guns and people that my friends at Rhine told me to call (Just tell Todd that Bill Olson sent you.) and getting no where.   I called the Browning factory and they are sending me some universal grips that should work.    I'll probably have them within a week and will replace them with someone who knows what they are doing watching me.

I had lunch with Kate.  It was her birthday, we went to Antoinette's.   I had a Margareta Pizza.   I just love them.   We had a lot to celebrate, with her birthday and all.   And a lot to talk about.  I had stopped at Generations before meeting Kate to pick up a letter from my little pen pal.  They couldn't find it so I said I'd come back.    So I finished all my other errands, Walgreens, and Fleet Farm and stopped back again.    Still couldn't find it so I will stop again tomorrow.    But.  as I walked out of the building I saw a lady who had walked out with a walker, lying in the parking lot.   I started towards her and she said she was OK.   So I just opened the door and yelled in that help was needed and hurried out to her.   Poor thing, she fell trying to pick up papers that she dropped.   She didn't hurt herself but was unable to get up without help.  I put my jacket under her head so that she didn't have to put her head on the blacktop. Help came and we called 911.    She was a real kick.   She said that she has fallen at least 50 times and knew that she was OK.   Anyway after the EMTS came and they got her in her car, I went home.    Don't worry.   Someone was driving her home.

Home again, I worked on the book for a while.   Bart called, he is going to help his Dad and Aunt Jacquie on Sunday.

I called Richard and Brenda tonight.   Just wanted to hear their voices and find out what they did for Brenda's birthday.   They always do such fun things.    I feel good tonight.    Tomorrow will also be busy but I think under control.

Dia Dhuit
Mary