Hi everybody.

Back from the "Wedding of the Century".   It was wonderful.

A beautiful wedding and ceremony.     Erin and John and their families did a perfect job of planning.

I was priviledged to be asked to read the petitions at the wedding ceremony.  Erin is my god daughter and I am so proud to call her that.    When she was a little girl, she once told me that we have a "special relationship".   I agree with  that am so blessed.


I got to Chicago at about  10am and my friend Maureen picked me up.  She drove me to the hotel and we had lunch and the best visit.   We shared what we are doing and what is coming up in our Celtic futures.   I will be coming back to Chicago in October to be a part of her Literary Salon at IBAM.  She edited my forward/introduction and liked it.   I have to get myself published or at least on the brink of publication before IBAM.  I think there is a market for my book.  It has not been done before.   The patron saints of all 7 Celtic nations.  It has been an adventure and a wonderful obsession for me.  If any of you know of a publisher to contact, let me know.

It is very warm here.

Dia dhuit

mary 

   

AUNTIE BRANDL'S WONDER SALVE

8 ounces sweet oil

4 ounces red lead

3 drams olebaum

2 drams burnt alum

2 drams camphor

Heat oil to boiling point. Add all ingredients except camphor.

Boil until lead turns brown.

Take from fire and immediately add camphor. Beat until cool.

NOTES : This salve was used for healing sores. Auntie Brandl sent some of this salve to Grandma Helen Ziegler Deeley when Dad had Tularemia (contracted from contact with rabbits). He had a sore that would not heal. The envelope with the recipe had a note on it to "Put on Hutz's toe" My dad, Hutz, swore by it and after it was gone tried to get Mom to make more. Some of the ingredients are no longer available. Actually we aren't sure what some of them are. To top things off, according to my brother George, who has a PHD in Water Pollution (Chemistry) the red lead is poisonous and illegal anyway. Mom used to have a bottle of sweet oil (which may have been too old to be of any use) and a small sample of the original salve. I am not even sure from transcribing the writing if I spelled correctly and olebaum may be oledaum or even olebalm. If I ever find out I will correct the recipe and update this page.

Don't you love the word drams. It is a really cool word. I looked it up so that you don't have

to wonder how much a dram is.

1 dram = 0.0625 ounces and was originally both a coin and a weight in

ancient Greece. There is a lot more information in the definition, but it is really much more than we need to know.

Well, tomorrow morning I will be leaving for Chicago for the wedding

Bart will be spending the night so I can just wake him when it is time to drive me to the airport.

Today, I had a pedicure.   I almost made the appointment for after the wedding.   Sure glad I didn't.  My does were a grown out green and raggedy looking.   As I am wearing a yellow dress and open toed shoes, this would have looked like  H E double toothpicks.

I had Brooke paint them a nice lavender which is in the sash on the dress.

The rest of the day I tried to rest.   I planted the herbs that I had purchased a week or so ago and packed but that was about it.

You probably won't hear from me until I return.   Pray for the happy couple as they start their journey.

I think you all know that Erin is not only my niece but my god daughter.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got off from a nice phone conversation with my friend Janet.     The evenings get long sometimes and we always have so much to talk about.

Bart stopped by early this evening just before Barbara got off work and we had a nice visit too.

He and Barb and I will have dinner tomorrow night together.  Then he will spend the night in my guest room as he has to get me to the airport by 4:30AM on Friday.

Tomorrow I have one appointment at 11AM and have to finish packing but will mainly rest as the the next three days will be SO busy.

May friend Maureen is picking me up at the airport in Chicago and will take me to the hotel.  We are planning on catching up and just visiting for the afternoon.   I am so looking forward to that.

So time to wind down again.

I love you all

Dia dhuit

Mary

What a great couple of days.

Today, I drove over to the Center for Creative Living and we firmed up the event that I hope will kick off a very active CWI - Celtic Women organization in Lawton.  

On April 27th,  the Center is supplying the place with lunch from 11AM to noon.   At noon, I will read the Proclamation,  (The Proclamation of Independence of the Republic of Ireland,  that was read on April 24 by Padraig Pearse on the steps of the General Post  Office on O Connell Street  in Dublin just after the Irish Republican Brotherhood occupied the property.)

I will be bringing the dessert. - Barm Brac, Guinness cupcakes and Irish soda bread.

I  hope to get a number of people interested in the aims of CWI signed up for membership and begin a series of events that will keep the movement going.  

I am packing for the big Wedding of the Century.   I don't know if my Erin reads this but she would be  amused at my labeling of the event as such.   She is my niece and goddaughter so this does seem right.   I am looking forward to spending time with my Chicago CWI friends on Friday and then with the DEELEY CLAN on Saturday and Sunday.

Isn't this day an age wonderful?   When I was married (the first time) it was a miracle that Mother was able to come for the wedding.   Travel in 53 years is a whole new game!!!!!

I love you all

Dia dhuit

Mary

Last night I was in church from 6:30PM to 11:30PM then spent about 30 minutes in the hall at a reception for the dozen people who were baptized and confirmed in our faith this Easter Saturday.   The service is SO long because of all the blessings and the baptisms.   My new church has a baptism pool.   The candidates step in and Father Paul pours the water over them in the pool.   Quite dramatic.  

This morning, Bart, Barb and I drove to Dallas to spend the day with Timothy and Amber and their dear little man, one of my step great grandsons, Augie for Easter Dinner.    Amber's parents and aunt and uncle and Timothy's father and his wife were also there.   Quite a party.   Lots of fun to be around a baby on his first Easter, especially with such pleasant people.

Augie is adorable.   I have pictures but my phone is not connecting properly and I will have to work on it tomorrow when I am more alert to send some.   I know that I have been bad about pictures.   I am not doing as well with the process here in OK.  

?So it is time for bed for this lady who is exhausted after two days of LOTS of activity.

Friday I leave for Chicago.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A busy couple of days.

Yesterday, my computer tried to tell me that I had used all of my memory and it was acting very slow and some things weren't working at all.   I emailed Richard and Brenda for advice and bless their souls, they called, signed in to my computer and FIXED it.   Even from Wisconsin they can save me.  Thanks, Richard and Brenda.   I LOVE you.

I talked to Bret and Leslie and Bobbie also during the day and evening.

Today, I did a bit of household needs shopping and washed clothes and sheets.  This evening I went to the Good Friday service at Holy Family.   I find it odd, but they do not do a noon to three service, they do the evening adoration of the cross and communion service in the evening instead.

Tomorrow I will go to the Holy Saturday service.  It is a long vigil, and I don't always go, but since Bart, Barb and I  are going to Dallas to spend Easter with Tim, Barb's son, and his family on Sunday, I won't be able to go to an Easter Mass.   I will get to see my newest step great grandson, Augie for the first time. 

Time for bed.   My back is sore.    A nice cold pack will fix that up just fine.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I was finally able to get an appointment with Barb's hairdresser to get a haircut.   I no longer look like a Cocker Spaniel   Whew.

Had that appointment at 9AM, then stopped at my new bank to order checks which we had neglected to do yesterday.

Home  the rest of the day.   I finished the trimming on the quilt top that I am planning to put together and made some phone calls to firm up my new life here.

Last night was the first show of Dancing with the Stars.   I decided to watch it again this season,  I missed the last one because of the move.  But I really do enjoy that show.   It was fun and I got my votes in, so I am now committed.

I have a dentist appointment at 7AM so am going to bed even earlier than usual so I can get up early to get there.  Tomorrow is a busy day ending with a Vespers service along with an Anointing of the Sick service at Holy Family.    

Guess I am getting busy.   I miss all my friends in Sheboygan County but do call when I get lonely.

Dia DHuit

Mary                                                                        

Well, It was 33 degrees outside when Nicky and I went for our walk this morning.   It warmed up to the 60s by afternoon but felt a bt cooler because of the wind.   The wind actually blew over my trash barrels after they were empty.

I went to a local bank and opened an account so I don't have to be paying ATM fees. 

The rest of the day was home with writing, starting a fabric project and making a really good chicken salad recipe for supper tonight.

Tomorrow I will finally get my hair cut.   I am beginning to look like a Cocker Spaniel.

Until tomorrow.

Dia DHuit

Mary

Except for Mass this morning, it was a very quiet day.   I am glad for that.

Talked to a friend, worked on the book and am tired and ready for bed.

I love you all.

Please be well.   The prayer chains are SO busy.

Dia dhuit
Mary

A lovely day.   I prepared the corned beef and cabbage dinner for Bart's birthday dinner.   It turned out very will.   I have corned beef and cabbage coming out my ears leftover - that is the trouble with such a meal.   I wish you all had come.

I made a green velvet cake for his birthday cake and the dessert (remember, Bobbie, from our class at Kohler.)   There were four of us, Bart, Barb, Marlies and myself.   Marlies brought me a beautiful hanging plant for the front porch.  I will get a hook on Monday or Tuesday.   With the cold we are having, almost to freezing, I am keeping it in the sunroom for the time being.

I went to a plant sale and got a few herbs.  Still need lavender, thyme, basil and rosemary, but I have a start.

Holy week starts tomorrow with Palm Sunday.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Had an appointment with Dr. Toy this morning.  He is pleased with my progress and I will see him in another week again.   We are extending the time between visits and eventually I will see him only when needed.   Ya Hoo. 

After a couple of errands, I spent the rest of the day at home.   I am preparing for a special Birthday dinner for my youngest son.   Of course, you all know that is Bart.   He will be 45 tomorrow.  How can this baby who snuggled into my neck be 6 feet tall and 45 years old?    He was born on St. Joseph's day but requested corned beef and cabbage.

I read in a prayer guide, that corned beef was a staple of the Irish.   That is actually not completely accurate.   The Irish did prepare Irish Bacon with cabbage and potatoes.  When they arrived in New York, the Jewish people had this wonderful  process of corning beef to make it tender and tasty.   The Irish found that this worked quite well as a cheap and available replacement for Irish Bacon.  And that is the rest  of the story.

I am working daily on my book, now that I have found it again.    My goal is to have it ready for IBAM.

I can't believe that next week is Holy Week and a week from Sunday is Easter.   Then the following week is the Erin/John wedding.   I am so excited about that.   So happy that Nicky is happy with his "brother" Bart when I am gone.  I hope that I will be as comforting to his critters when I am in charge of them when they go somewhere.   OMG.  WHAT IF WE WANT TO GO TOGETHER.  Oh well, we won't think about that.

We have a freeze warning for tomorrow.  Go figure.   But it is a short session and spring is on its way.  We will yearn for these temps in the summer.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

I just got home from the last of the Lenten Bible Classes that Fr. Phil put on this season.   I dressed in my St. Patrick's day sequenced vest over all green with my greet hat with a feather in it.    I shared Brown Bread and scones with my fellow bible students.

I believe that I have my bible study.   One of the gals at my table is in a Wednesday morning study and they are about to begin Psalms.   Sounds like it is meant for me. Right.

I also went to the Center for Creative living at noon for a St. Patrick's Day meal.   I brought scones there also and made some inroads for getting a Celtic Women Group started.

So I am a happy girl.   Tomorrow should be quiet except for a visit to my chiropractor. 

Saturday, I am cooking Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner for Bart's birthday dinner.     My BABY is going to be 45.   If anybody wants to come, we will be eating between 6 and 6:30PM.   All are welcome.

Happy St. Patrick's Day to you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A lovely Oklahoma spring day again.   It is a good thing I am having all this now as I can hold it in my heart when the dry hot days of summer come down on us.

I baked all morning.  Tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day and the two events I have found to celebrate require that I bring something to share.   So I have baked three batches of scones and made a batch of Devonshire cream which I will bring along with jelly.    Tomorrow I will bake Irish Brown Bread to take, along with scones to the Bible Class at Holy Family tomorrow night.

Bart and I went shopping today so I was not alone all day.   He looks pretty good but his back and head have been really hurting him.  Barb is still nursing her knee.   Hopefully it will heal without surgery.

So Hopefully tomorrow will be more exciting.   Actually exciting is OK but normal days are not so bad either:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

  

Got to take more pictures.   I will of the back yard as I get it in shape.   I had an herb garden put in and should be able to plant in early April.   The trees are being trimmed, (they are huge and had not been groomed in quite a while.)  I love them because they will provide shade during the heat of the summer.

I was home all day.  I worked on the book most of the day.   Also did my washing and a bit of cleaning.   I am doing windows one or two every other day or so.  

Jeff called last night and we had a really nice visit.    Will see them, of course, in April at Erin's wedding.   Then my niece, Suzi, that Dick gave me, called.    I had called her after the Texas Irish Fest as Suzi and I Always met at the Milwaukee Irish Fest.   She wasn't home, but was able to call last night.    She is quite the gal.   I know she will come to visit some time.

So.  That's all for today.

It was in the 70s and dry.   We are supposed to cool down and MAY get rain on the weekend.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Had a chiropractor appointment today.  He finally has me where he is extending the time between appointments.   A big step.   I am almost aligned.

Nate came and trimmed the trees in the back today.   There were broken limbs and very fragile ones extending over the fence into the neighbors.   The trees will be much healthier for a trimming.

Bart and I went grocery shopping today and he was able to locate some of my lost files on the computer.

Now I am VERY tired.   Have been all afternoon, so I am going to bed early.

I am starting to get in the habit of writing every day too - so am settling in OK.

Til tomorrow

DIA DHUIT

Mary

Hi.
 Last night was wonderful.  I had not attended the Stations of the Cross for several years, so that in itself as comforting.  I was able to sit with members of Holy Family Church who I have me in the past couple of weeks through Fr. Phil's bible study of St. John.

We ended with a dinner of tuna casserole and salads.   Wow.  I felt so Catholic.

I need that once in a while.

I was able to get my Lenten sacrament of reconciliation in at the same time It also gave me the opportunity to just turn myself over to God. I am not good at sitting still and listening:) 

I have to tell you a funny story.  I was talking to Bart's mother in law, Marlies, and she said that she had captured a possum.  I didn't quite get it at first.  She actually captured an oppossum.  She will have someone pick it up and take it to a safe rescue site.   She has also caputured racoons.   I am amazed.


Dia dhuit

Mary

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!”

― Hunter S. Thompson, The Proud Highway: Saga of a Desperate Southern Gentleman, 1955-1967

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!” ― Hunter S. Thompson, The Proud Highway: Saga of a Desperate Southern Gentleman, 1955-1967

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!” ― Hunter S. Thompson, The Proud Highway: Saga of a Desperate Southern Gentleman, 1955-1967

The weather is still so pleasant.   Always in the mid to high 60s.   We are getting rain and possibility of rain for the next few days but intermingled with sunshine and we do so need the rain.

Nate came and cut the lawn today so I should have had the last of the young man who was not reliable coming by to ask if I want him to do it.     It really looks nice right about now.   Nate will also clean the storm cellar, trim the big oaks in the back yard and help me get my herb garden in.   Then I will be on a roll and be able to get into a summer routine.

Tonight I went to the Bible Class on St. John at church.  Tomorrow I will also go to church.    I am going to the Blessed Sacrament Church, the other Catholic church in Lawton, for the Stations of the Cross, the sacrament of Penance and a Lenten Supper.   

Next week will be the last of the St. John Class as the following week is Holy Week.   Can you believe that Easter is SO early this year.   Next week Thursday, also St. Patrick's Day, I am bringing treats to the class and intend to bring scones and fresh Irish Brown Bread.   I want to bake the brown bread in the afternoon so it is still a bit warm.  

Everybody be safe.   

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I did get a picture to post.  Yippee.   This is Nora, Leif, Betsy and George at the Southfork ranch.

I will keep working on it so that I can be "efficient" about it.

Today, I went to the chiropractor.  I am getting better.   My arms don't hurt so badly.

I also got an oil change on my van.   So with washing clothes and all, It was a busy day.

We heard from Jim and Michelle, Jim had surgery on his neck to fuse the vertebrae.   Please pray for him.   We should hear tomorrow as to how things went.   The last we heard is that he is resting and  is supposed to come home tomorrow.   They send them home SO quick these days. 

So that is the day.   

Dia DHuit

Mary

Nora and Leif, Betsy and George at Southfork, the ranch from Dallas, the TV Show.

I got back from my trip to Plano for the Texas IrishFest this afternoon at about 3PM.   Nicky is very very happy to be back home and with me, though he stuck to Barbara like glue when I was gone.

I left on Friday about 9AM and got to Leif and Nora's shortly after noon, George and Betsy were already there.  We had a lovely lunch of sandwiches and then took a drive out to Southfork for a bit of a tour.   It was fun.   Lots more pictures but my family are the most important part.

That evening we went to a Chinese restaurant chosen by Stenn and Bing.   Bing chose the meal, lots of selections in the middle, family style and unbelievably good.   We were stuffed and then went back to Leif and Nora's for more visit and a night cap.

The next day was the Irish Fest.   It is different that Milwaukee but very interesting.  Lots of exhibits and vendors, good music and lots of good food.

We watch the group Altan, and I got to see Jeff Ward, one of my very favorite tenors, (I call myself his groupie)   Also saw a wonderful presentation by a local pipe and drum group.

We took the train from Plano to the Fair Grounds where the Festival was.   It was fun.  Got back to Plano at about 9:30PM or 10 and enjoyed some Bailey's and Irish and Texas Whiskey and good conversation before retiring.

 This morning after breakfast, a visit to see Bing and Stenn's lovely home and goodbye's, I headed home as did George and Betsy.

A totally wonderful weekend.   We now have quite a southern contingent of Deeley's.

dia Dhuit

Thanks Nora and Leif and Bing and Stenn for your wonderful hospitality and I am SO glad that George and Betsy could come too.


Mary

(I tried to send pictures they till not go.    I will try again tomorrow.)

I kept myself busy at home all day.    Had the preparations for the trip to the Texas Irish Fest to finish and then Bart and Barb came over for supper.

I was so excited to host a meal in my new home and glad that they were my first guests.   I prepared chicken breasts in a creamy veggie sauce with noodles, broccoli and raw veggies.

It is good to have people to eat with. 

You won't hear from me until Sunday evening as I will be leaving tomorrow at about 9AM.   I have informed Nicky that he will be at the Johnston's.   Hope he has been listening:)

Til Sunday.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another beautiful day in Oklahoma.

I got a lot done today.    Sent my tax info to my accountant.   Hung a few pictures.   The man who wanted my boxes came by and picked them up this afternoon.


I am feeling clean and  very organized.   Wonder how long this will last?

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another comfortable sunny day.   There are trees blooming already.   How nice is that.   I know I won't be so enthusiastic when it is over a hundred this summer, but it is surely great now.

I voted for the first time in Oklahoma.   Oklahoma is part of the Super Tuesday sweep.  On the way home, I did a bit of grocery shopping.

This afternoon, Bart and I went to Walmart and I picked up a couple of hoses for the yard and a couple of other things I needed for the house.  

I am also working on my Taxes.  I will be sending my package of stuff off to Mark, my accountant, tomorrow or Thursday.    I believe that I have everything now.

The sliding doors on my pantry came off their tracks.   I thought I could fix it but couldn't.   The local handyman, Nate, that Bart and Barb and my realtor, Joe, recommended is coming over this evening to reset it for me. 

Nicky seems to have decided that it is time for bed.   He has been heading there at about 7:30PM to 8PM lately.   I actually have to call him to take him out for his last little potty break:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another beautiful day.   They are talking about a possible storm tonight with hail the size of golf balls.   Lawton is on the very far edge and these things normally blow over, but I had to rearrange my garage and get those boxes stacked on the far side.   After seeing Dick, many years ago, standing in our garage on CreekSide watching the pea sized hail pummel the Camero, I am not taking any chances.

I had an early morning chiropractor appointment.   I am feeling better and the pain is moving to my extremities.   Dr. Toy says that he will have me put back together soon.

I was busy all day.   Things are coming together nicely.  

Tomorrow is Super Tuesday.   I will be voting as Oklahoma is one of the Super Tuesday states.  Still don't know exactly what to do but will not give up my voters right.

So it is dark outside and time to wind down for the night.

Bless you all.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A beautiful day in Oklahoma.   It was in the low 70s with little wind, which made it very special.

I went to Mass at 8:30AM then had donuts and coffee with my fellow worshipers.  I am starting to know some of them and feel good about that.

The rest of the day was at home.  I keep putting things away and have found two items that I have been searching for so feel VERY good about today.

I talked to Richard and Brenda and some of my friends today so was not lonely.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I have been terribly negligent in posting the past couple of days.   

I got tired of reporting the same old same old stuff.    Unpacking, cleaning etc.

Still much the same, but that is OK.    My home is becoming more me every day.  

Thursday, I went to the Bible Study class on John at Holy Family.    Fr. Phil is very interesting and knowledgeable.   I have found that priests come in to and out of my life simply because of the movement amid the diocese.   But now it is also because of geography.  I think I mentioned some of the differences in this parish.    For one thing.   They use the bells, or chimes, during the Mass at the consecration of the Eucharist.   Also, when a song is sung during or before the service, we sing ALL the verses.   I guess it is a southern thing.   At my past several parishes, we would only sing, for example, maybe two verses of the entrance hymn, then dive right into the mass.   People aren't in such a hurry here.

I like these things.    I am going to give myself some time before I decide what areas of the parish I will become active in.    I must remember my sweetheart would remind me not to volunteer for EVERYTHING.  He used to say that I had "Pick Me" on my forehead. 

I have to remember that one of my BIG priorities is to establish a Celtic Women Branch here in Lawton.   They have very little to none Irish shops, bars, restaurants, but lots of people I talk to claim to be Irish.   So Perhaps there is a thirst for the Celts in this area.    I may be able to satisfy a THIRST!!!

I know, I know.   I can hear Dick's eyes rolling from heaven.

Talked to my friend Peg Payne today.   She is a Celtic Lady from the word go and we date back to our mothers.   Her mother went to the Normal School (teacher's college) in Sheboygan Falls when Mother was a child.  She lived with Mom's family in their home while she went to school, as the families were friends from out in the "Holy Land" of Sheboygan County.   This is what you did then.  And there were not cars or buses, so daily travel was impossible.   Wow,   Not so long ago either.

Hope all are well.   I am looking forward to Texas Irish fest and Deeley's next weekend.

Dia Dhuit

Mary  

Got my security system installed today.  He just finished and it is 8:30PM  I am exhausted and hope I remember everything.

Nicky is ready for bed.   He was a good boy.    Warmed up to the guy towards the end, but very protective of me.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I have met my new dentist.   I had my first appointment this morning and will go back on March 9 for cleaning and to start replacing the cap that popped off while I was flossing just before I left Wisconsin.  As I am not experiencing any pain, he did not want to fix it as he could not have followed up on it.   As it turns out, it will be cheaper here anyway.

P. S.  Flossing is dangerous:)

Bart was at the house when I got home from the dentist.  We worked on getting my printer communicating with my computer.   We did get them talking but It would not print?

He had to leave for an appointment so we suspended our efforts.   Then I called HP because I was having trouble getting my ink ordering plan in place (found out it was a simple error on my part for THAT)  The person, Jeff, that I got on the line fixed EVERYTHING.  I can print and scan and am all registered.   Yippee.

Then I went across the street to the Target Mall and got a halter for Nicky so that I can take him for walks on busy streets.    He can slip out of his collar, and I was afraid to take him on any busy streets.  His neck is so big compared to his little head.   Now he can be safe.   I also picked up Erin and John's wedding present and some printer paper at Target.  

So a busy day again.

We are supposed to get some much needed rain tonight and the warm weather is over for a while.

A quote from Grandma Bowser (My Mom's Mom for those of who who might not know, though most of us are family.  "Words left unsaid will fall back dead, but once they are said, not even God can take them back."

Dia Dhuit


Mary

This has been a gentle day.

I went to Mass at 8:30AM.  Then I stopped at the grocery store to be sure that I had what I needed in case I needed to feed people.

As it turned out, Barbara has a  fever today and is not going ANYWHERE.   She needs to let her body heal and get strong.  

I cooked some rabbit that my friend, Jerry Coenan gave me before I left Wisconsin.  I thought I had better cook it before it became freezer burned.  Boy is it good.  I have enough for a meal or two so if you want to join me tomorrow or the next day, just let me know.    


Tomorrow, I have a dentist appointment.  Slowly, things are falling into place.   After the dentist, I just need a doctor.   Unless something comes up, I already have an appointment for my "wellness exam", with Humana.   Hopefully   all will stay stable until I have that exam.   Except for arthritic pains, I am feeling quite healthy - Thank God.

I don't miss the cold, but I miss the nearness to my family and friends in Wisconsin .  Know that I love you all and miss your nearness.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another day in the 80s.   Unusual even for Oklahoma, the weather reports are saying.   This is the last of the unseasonable warmth they predict, so I must prepare for some cooler weather. 

I got the car washed today and put my brand new Oklahoma license plate on it.   Now, as I have my driver's license also, I am truly a resident of this state.  

I hung a few more pictures in my office today.   Slowly but surely things are becoming more homelike.

My office is still shambles.   Actually things are sorted, but there are far too many piles.   I need to get pared down and am gradually doing that as the settling in becomes taken care of.

Tomorrow, Sunday.    I will go to the 8:30AM Mass and have the rest of the day.   Bart and/or Barb are going to help me get my printer online.   I can only get so far without instructions.

In two weeks, I will be in Texas for the Dallas Irish Fest.   George and Betsy are also coming to Plano.  I may have told you that but I am so excited that I will see them along with Leif, Nora, Stenn and Bing.   AND an Irish fix too.

Dia dhuit\

Mary   

I am now an official Okie.  I have my car with an Oklahoma license and my driver's license is Oklahoma.  That should be the last of the BIG changes.

Typical of DMVS - I spent two hours waiting for my place in line to get my changes recorded.  DMVS around the country should be ashamed of their service.  The young lady that FINALLY serviced me was wonderful but there is no reason for the time spent waiting for service.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got home from the Bible Class on the Gospel of John that my pastor is teaching during this Lent.   I am getting to meet people in the church and learning at the same time.

I was busy today, of course.    I went and got some rods to hang my quilts and wall hangings from.   Now I have to figure out how to hang the rods:)

Tomorrow, I will get my auto license and driver's licenses changed to Oklahoma.

Then I will be a true Okie?

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is supposed to get up into the 80s tomorrow.   Unseasonably warm even for Oklahoma with a fire hazard warning in place.

A pleasant day.    Finished unpacking the books.   That is a feat in itself.   Bart and I did a bit of shopping today and a couple of other errands. 

A repairman is coming  tomorrow and church, the bible class is in the evening.  So it will be a busy day.

I have decided to go to Dallas the first week in March for their Irish Fest.   Nora and Leif invited me.  Stenn and Bing go also so it will be fun.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

   

Today, Marlies,  Barb's Mom (I think you all know that) guided me down to Wichita Falls, TX so that I could get to a Wells Fargo Bank.   I had three checks to be deposited and did want to know where the bank is.    We left at about 8:30AM and were back shortly after 11AM so Marlies was able to make a luncheon with her friends.    She is a good friend to have around here.  

So it took only a little over two hours including my time in the bank.  I do know that there is a marvelous grocery store somewhere in Wichita Falls also.   So as I can do most things online and if I get as smart as my smart phone, can even deposit checks online, it will not be inconvenient at all not to have a branch in Oklahoma.

I am continuing with my putting things away and organizing.    It seems endless.  I ordered a workbench from Walmart for the garage that I will have by the end of the month.  It just seems more practical than piling everything on shelves with no way to spread out.   I found one that is not too expensive and will easily suit my needs.

Tomorrow, Bart and I are going to see about getting my auto and drivers licenses taken car of.   I also need to apply for the homestead credit that Oklahoma has which will help with RE taxes.

I did register to vote - just in time too.   So now I do have a government ID with my OK address on it.
 Guess that makes it official.

A few things are going up on the walls as I feel comfortable with them.   

So things are falling into place.

I am already involved in a church group (albeit, the class is only during lent, but will lead to something, I know.)  and Barb's quilt group.    Perhaps that will encourage me to finish the half finished projects in tubs all around.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Today, I met my new chiropractor, Dr. Toy.    He seems very nice and did adjust me.   I was really out of whack so hopefully will feel better now.    He will check on Friday to see how things have stabilized.

I was home the rest of the day.   Now that I have my ice maker hooked up, I am able to put pots and pans and dishes in the lower cabinets.   I was avoiding that because I would have just had to take them out for Nate to work anyway.    I have lights working on the garage too.   Yippee.  

Two young neighbors were supposed to come by today, as it is Washington's Birthday and a school holiday, to rake.   They stopped last week and asked if they could do jobs like that to as one of them said. "Keep them off the streets."    But they did not show up so I am figuring that this is not going to work.   I have another source to take care of the lawns, but would not mind having the neighbor youth doing it.  Oh well.

Did get a lot put away and even hung a couple of paintings here and there.  

Tomorrow, Marlies and I are going to drive to Wichita Falls, TX so that I can go to Wells and deposit some checks and get some cash.    I am also frightfully low on cash and need to get to a bank.   It is only because of the move that I have checks to deposit, so this will not be a usual problem.   There are after all ATMS everywhere.

I am watching the Westminster Dog Show.   I do like that, though lots of people don't.   I find it fun.
   

So another busy day tomorrow.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What  a day.

I now have my "icemaker" refrigerator hooked up and working.

Nicky was quite confused. but grew to like the people who came to get things working.


Life is much easier today.

Did dhuit.

Mary

A busy day full of fun.     Barbara picked me up shortly after 10AM and we headed for "the city".   That is Oklahoma City.    Adria, one of my great grand daughters, was in a swim meet there.   We sat with Adam, my grandson, for the event.  

It was very exciting.   Adria was in four events and came in first in the 100 meter race.   We were SO very proud of her.   She has only been swimming competitively since September and does amazingly well.

The Barb and I went to lunch at a mall,  we had gyros that were very good, and Barb did a bit of shopping.  It was so crowded and the traffic was horrible, but we were able to get to Barb's favorite quilt shop in the City so she could pick up some backing for a quilt she is ready to put together.   A good chance to share the shop with me.   I resisted buying anything as I am still not even set up for sewing and don't have any idea what my next project will be.   We got home shortly before 6PM.

Nicky was a happy boy and very hungry.

I had a nice phone visit with my friend, Joan Kramer, about Celtic Women and just stuff tonight.   We are on the nominating committee for the International Board and agreed on our nominee.   Pretty efficient meeting if you ask me.

I liked today.   Hope yours was as nice.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Another lovely day.   It is supposed to be warm for the next week or so, even getting up into the 80s next week.

The mornings are rather nippy, but Nicky and I find the nippy here quite tolerable.

I was home most of the day, putting books on shelves.   I will have to redistribute some, but have almost all at least on the shelves.  The garage is at a point that I am able to put some of the shelves together and organize those things too.   I finally located all of my tools.

Bart stopped by this afternoon.  He and I went over to Lowe's to pick up a couple of things I needed.  We also stopped at Walgreens, my waterpik broke just before I left Wisconsin and I feel like my teeth have not really been clean since then.

A quiet evening.   Tomorrow will be going to Oklahoma City for Adria's swim meet.   Nicky can have a play date with Bart and the dogs, Leo and Lily.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another lovely day in Lawton.     I was home most of the day.    I made connections with doctors and dentists and worked on bills and putting books on shelves and finding things.

This evening I went to Holy Family for the first of the six week class that our pastor is presenting on the Gospel of John.  I do know now that there are a couple of bible studies in the parish so after Lent I can join one of them, the good Lord willing.


It was very interesting.   Different than others I have been to.   This is great as it makes one think.   This week we just discussed the first part, the prologue and he have a great basis of what is known of the writing of it.    St. John was an apostle and the only one not martyred.   He died in around the year 96 of natural causes.

So.  Until tomorrow. 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Can't believe that Lent has already started.  Today was Ash Wednesday.   Holy Family had a noon Mass and the ceremony  marking of a cross with ashes on the forehead.    "Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return."   It was also a day of fast and abstinence.   I am over 60 and technically don't have to fast any more but I am healthy enough that I CAN do this so I do.    No meat a couple days here and there is just a reminder of the importance of Lent.

After Mass, I went and visited with Bart for a little bit.  Then came home and took care of a few more things around here.   Barb picked me up at about 5PM.   Marlies had invited us to the casino for dinner as she had coupons and a gift certificate.    Bart chose to stay home.   So it was ladies night.  We had good dinner and a nice visit.  

Tomorrow night starts a Bible Class at Holy Family.   It is on John.   I have to find my bibles.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I now have two bathrooms that work just beautifully.   I also have a kitchen sink and garbage disposal that are talking.

Live is good.

I still need a garage door that opens, an ice maker that works and a few other items that need to be regularly maintained, but life IS good.

I went grocery shopping today and spent a "fortune".   Not really, but here were so many things that I needed to get to restock my pantry.   I feel that I can make a meal or two now and will slowly get back to "comfortable."

Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday.   I will be going to a service at noon and then over to visit Bart.   I took Nicky grocery shopping with me today.   So few months that one can leave a critter in the car when one goes shopping.

Nicky does like his rides.   It is nice that he is always welcome at Bart and Barb's.   Leo and Lily like him.  The cats don't especially but they tolerate, especially when I tell Nicky to mind his manners.  After all, Kitch and Jack are the owners of the house!!!


So another day done and another day that I feel that I have accomplished a lot.  I found one box of lost pictures.  YEA.  Now I need tools and hanging thingys.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Home most of the day.   It was in the 50s but very windy which made it chilly outside.   Those Oklahoma winds sure do blow.

The neighbors were having their roof replaced today so Nicky was defending me off and on when the noise got loud or whenever we went outside.   So he is exhausted.

Tonight I went to the local Wichita Mountain Quit Guild with Barbara.   Met a lot of nice people and did join the guild.    When I am settled, I will get back into my fabric art and it is nice to be around people of similar interest to keep one stimulated.

So a nice day.  Tomorrow, Sheilds Plumbing is coming to fix the toilet that ran and flooded the bedroom.    They must also see that the pipes are cleared out and since they are here, I am going to ask them to hook up the ice maker on my fridge.  

By next week, I will be OK.   I am actually doing pretty well so far.    But there are lots of boxes, some of which are hiding things that I really would like to be using.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A lovely Sunday.    The weather was a bit breezy, but the sun shone and it was in the low 60's all day.

I went to the 8:30AM Mass and went to the hall for coffee and donuts after the service.  I just sat at a table and ended up talking to several ladies who have invited me to attend various meetings and also to be an usher.   Don't think I'll have trouble fitting in.   I will just have to remember not to get too committed.    Ash Wednesday is this week.    A six week class on the Gospel of John on Thursday evenings during Lent.    I will be attending that.   Another good way to become acquainted.

I spent the day washing clothes and just sorting things.   Bart and Barb had invited me and Marlise over for dinner.  They prepared a wonderful German stewed meat with mashed potatoes, salad and a berry dessert.    Nummy nummy and a lovely night of visiting.

Tomorrow, I hope that Sheilds, the plumber, will be able to come to check out that toilet and be sure the lines are clear.   That should solve my disposal, sink problem too.  

I have a lot of calls to make also so will keep myself occupied.

Til tomorrow then

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well.   I have my cell phone back.   Yee Haa.    It was difficult without it.  Had lots of messages when it hooked up again.  So you can all reach me again.

I am waiting for Jamal, the carpet cleaner guy and neighbor of Bart and Barb, to come by.   He called and said he would be here after two more jobs and now it is almost 7PM and he is still not here.    I just hope he does come and I can get at least some of these fans off.  For two days I have been hearing four or five fans going but the carpets are drying.  I am only concerned about an area in the back of my bedroom closet and perhaps in back of the bed in the master bedroom.

Tomorrow, Mary. from Joe Chesko's (my realtor) office will be coming by with Nate, a handy man who can help hook up the fridge and clean out the storm cellar and a few other things around here.

Jamal just called, he is coming in the morning.

I am so glad,   I am getting tired and I know that it would be at least an hour or so to go through things.

Tomorrow, I will be going in the afternoon or evening to make an appearance at a birthday party for my great grand daughter, Adria.   That will be fun.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Things had been going way too smoothly.   The "gods" have decided to let me know that life is not an even path forever.

The toilet did a "thing".  My bedroom and hall were saturated.     Fortunately, Bart's neighbor is a carpet cleaner and has come like a knight in shining armor and is cleaning,  pulling water and drying my bedroom and hall so that there will be not after effects.  I am still blessed.  My realtor, Joe, came by to check on me and knows Jamal, the carpet cleaner too.    How cool is that.

All is good except for that.   I have not heard from Arizona, and my nephew, Todd.  Please keep up the prayers for my loved ones there.

I have to register to vote tomorrow, or miss out in Oklahoma.  Sure glad that I saw the ad, otherwise, I was going to wait until next week.   Even if I am wrong, I like to make my statement.

I have eommunicated with most of my children since the move.   Jim and Michelle,  Let me know that you are still here.  I love all of you.   As I have said often, I am one of the most blessed persons I know.


Dia Dhuit
Mary






Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. An occasional glance towards the summit keeps the goal in mind, but many beautiful scenes are to be observed from each new vantage point.
- Harold B. Melchart

It was a bit cooler today,  in the 50's and windy.   But certainly not COLD.

I was home most of the day, taking a hour to go grocery shopping to get my routine down. 

I keep refining the distribution of things and putting items away every day.  

Bart and I were going to haul boxes and packing away tomorrow, but Barb has a friend at church who may need some boxes so we are holding off until next week.  

I intend to get someone out to hook up my icemaker and check the disposal and sink which seem to be communicating too well, one surging up into the other.   No spillage but that should not be.

I am going to call Joe, my realtor, who seems to know everybody.

Tomorrow will be a day of phone calling again.    In a week or so, I should be settled pretty much.

Did I tell you all that Donna won the beer tasting contest again this year.   Yea for Donna.  

Dia Dhuit

Love

Mary

Aw Shucks

Things have been going way too smoothly.

So - today, I dropped my phone into the toilet!   Bart and I went over to ATT and a new one will be here tomorrow or Wednesday, but until then I am availabl

e by email only.   I have found out how to text Bart on his phone, so don't worry about an emergency.    He IS a GOOD son.

I am also setting up an alternate phone but this will be a few days away.  I will let my readers know individually.  See - Richard and Brenda - I am learning.   Slowly, but I will not let every body see the "wash on the line".

Aside from that, it was a good day.    Each day, the house gets more livable and convenient.   Either tomorrow or the next day, Bart will help me take a slew of boxes and packing to the dump which will free a big portion of my garage so that I can get to books and the boxes that are a bit mixed. 
They have trash pickup twice a week here, so that will help get rid of things that are piling up also.


The weather was gorgeous - in the 60s.   We may get a bit of rain tonight.   Which would be a blessing in this area which has been under drought conditions for some time.   In any case, I am grateful for the warmth and Nicky seems quite content too.

Love you all



I check my email regularly even after I have a phone so don't leave me all alone.   I might get scared:)

Dia dhuit 

Mary

"Remember you are just an extra in everyone else's play." FDR

A lovely Sunday. 

I just puttered.  I got the trash ready for tomorrow and broke down innumerable boxes for disposal.   I called lots of loved ones to touch base and update.

It is Sunday after all.    Tomorrow I will be more directed but it was nice to have a day with no goals that still got a lot done.

I am living comfortable here now.    Still a few things "Missing" but they will show up.   My walls are still bare, but they will take a while.   I have to let the items find their place.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 "Remember you are just an extra in everyone else's play."  FDR

I am online in my very own home!!!!

I am listening to the Clancy Brothers on Youtube as I wind down for the night.   Life is good.

A lot is done and there seems to be twice as much to accomplish before we are settled, but Nicky Nicki andMand I are feeling fine because we can sleep in our very own bed tonight.   He seems happier now that we are settled in.  I think I told you that I did not wash sheets before leaving so that things would seem more normal to him.   He actually got along quite well at Bart and Barb's house and made reasonable friendships with their two cats and two dogs.

I now have computers, gas, water, electric and mail.  The only left service is TV which will come on Friday.  Tomorrow, I plan on just unpacking and arranging except for grocery shopping and stopping at Bart's to see how he is doing and picking  up my venison which I left in his freezer.  Bart and Barb have been so good to me.   Barb is working, of course, so is overworked just for that.  Bart has had to really push himself an has done it for me.   I am so proud of him.

Bad news, my nephew's home (Todd Hiner) burned up yesterday.    Praise, God, nobody was hurt but it is a total loss.   Pray for my Todd and those involved.

Until tomorrow.  

Love you all

Dia dhuit

Mary

I think the last of the workmen have been here.   I now have TV too.

They came at 8AM.    I spent the morning working around him.    He was very efficient and helpful.   The rest of the day I unpacked and put things away.

Marlise, Barb's Mom, came by with some information for me after lunch and we had a nice visit.   A welcome break for me.

I did some book work too.

Then at about 5:30PM I went over to eat leftover pizza with Bart and Barb.   Barb hurt her knee this morning and went to the doctor after work.   Nothing on the x rays but they are scheduling an MRI.   She is in a lot of pain.   Good thing it is a weekend.   Hopefully she will rest that knee.

Now it is late enough for me to be ready for bed.

No news from my Todd.  I will call Vikki and him tomorrow.   Prayers are so gratefully accepted.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another day.   I got a lot done.

Most of the dishes are in the cupboards.   I bought the last of the things I need.   I have things ready for my TV hookup.

Obviously, my computer is working.  

I figure by Monday, I may feel normal again.   It does feel like home.   It is new to hear the artillery from Ft. Sill almost every day but I knew about it from previous visits.

Nicky seems really quite content.   I think that with familiar furniture and beds and all and ME, he is content.   He does like his yard, but makes me nervous when he gets too excited as I begin to think that perhaps critters are out there.  So far no sign of them however.

So tomorrow the TV service will be hooked up, then I am "fully serviced"?

FYI:   My nephew, Todd Hiner's home burned down yesterday morning.   Please pray for him and his children.   Everybody, including Dick Johnston, got out safely, thought Dick is in the hospital suffering from smoke inhalation (I think).  They lost everything material and a couple of pets which will be devastating , as we all know.   It is hard enough to lose them to natural causes.

Anyway.  Pray hard.   My Todd is a special guy.

Dia dhuit

Mary

I know it has been a while, but I told you it would be.

Bobbie and I had a blessedly uneventful drive down to Oklahoma, arriving at Bart and Barb's at about 7PM on Saturday evening.  Bless her heart, Barb had a big pot of her taco soup on the stove for us to eat before heading to bed.   

As we got in on Saturday, Bobbie and I were able to go to Mass on Sunday.   Then, in the afternoon, the four of us AND Marlise, Barb's Mom, took a drive up into the refuge here.   It was a beautiful drive through country that I have had the pleasure of seeing but Bobbie had not.   I hope we have whetted her appetite, so she and Bill will come down to visit often. 

Today, was the BIG day.    We went to a walk through of the house this morning and I signed everything this afternoon.  I am no longer a homeless person:)    

After the closing, I went to the house and unloaded the car.  Tomorrow, I am supposed to be having the furniture delivered in the morning and my brand new refrigerator, washer and dryer in the afternoon.   

By Thursday, me and Nicky should be able to get back to a normal life.    He is SO confused/

Tonight, Bobbie, Barb, Marlise and I went out for dinner.  Bart was not feeling too well, so   it was a girls night.   Tomorrow Bobbie goes home.      I will miss her.    But thank heavens we are in an age of email, skype, and easy phoning.   

Til later

Love you all

Mary

I am exhausted and Nicky is too.     We got up and started right in.   Kelly from R & R came and packed all my crystal and glass.  She got here at 8:30AM.  As she was leaving at 10:30 or so, Bobbie arrived and we started stacking and moving boxes so that they would be out of the way when Earthwise came at 4:30PM to pick up all the tvs etc.    Jeff an Kathy came with lunch (Kathy's homemade soup and pizza) and we kept packing and sealing and loading Jeff's car for St. Vinnies.    We finished up what we could at about 3:30 or  4PM.    Earthwise got her at 4:30ish and took all they promised. 

Alison came by at 5PM so that we could visit and she could see how well we have done.

It is not after 8PM.   I will take Mr. Nicky out and button things down soon as I need to be up a bit early as R & R is coming at 8AM tomorrow and I have to disconnect and finish stowing things in here, the office.   

This is the last blog you will have from me for a while.   I will connect with my laptop when I get to Bart's but am not in a hurry.   My Plymouth phone will be active until tomorrow morning after that use my 580 number.

So.  Pray for Bobbie and I as we travel to Lawton.   The closing is set for 3:00PM on Monday.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a day.

First - my phone rang at some ungodly hour.  I picked up and got a beep beep beep sound.   Later I got calls from Bart and Barb and the same thing happened so I called them on my Cell.    Barb was taking Bart to emergency.   His blood pressure was haywire and WAY to high.   Needless to say, he is not able to come up to ride down to Oklahoma with me.   Now we have to reassure him that he does not have to feel guilty about this.  He just needs to HEAL!

I went over to Time Warner with part of the equipment that has to be returned and she reset the phone.   When I got home, I tried it but it was STILL not working, so I called on my cell and after working with a really nice young man, got THAT squared away.    Kind of a pain as I will be cancelling everything on Time Warner on Thursday or Friday morning.  While I was out, I paid my RE Taxes and went to the post office.

Then I spent the afternoon, packing and sealing boxes.    Will it ever end.

Bobbie is going to ride to Oklahoma with me, so Bart does not have to feel guilty any longer.   We travel well together anyway.

I would be OK but it is MUCH better to have a companion.  Nicky doesn't have much to say.  This way, Bobbie can see the new house too.

So a hectic and profitable day.    Tomorrow I will call my loan officer and realtor to set the time for the closing on Monday.  Then I can set a time for delivery with R & R.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Tomorrow Bart will be here.   The next day Earthwise will come to get all the tvs and stuff and the next day R & R will pick up my household.   Then on Friday we leave.

Poor Nicky is so confused and it is so cold that he is still having trouble going to the bathroom.   He will like Oklahoma, I don't think they ever get below Zero.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A day at home, except for Mass at 9:30AM.  

I got a lot done and actually feel that I have somewhat of a handle on things.

Pray for me during the next week as I finish up here and make my way to Oklahoma.

The father of my sons called me today.  I only mention it because last week he was in the emergency ward with pneumonia so needs prayers.   I told him I would put him on my prayer chains and you are all part of that.

Tomorrow is comparatively quiet and Bart comes in on Tuesday.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a wonderful day.    My Celtic Women friends, had a going away party for me at 52 Stafford this afternoon.   We met about noon, toasted each other, visited, ate and just celebrated.    I saw friends from as far south at Chicago who cam to say good bye.    How blessed am I.   The cards and gifts were so generous and loving.   I am going to miss these women so much.   Thank heavens for email and phones.   I plan on coming up in October for IBAM in Chicago and will able to see some of them then. 

Janet informed me that we will have our April Gathering in Lawton next year.   So I will have to really get to work to establish a band of Celtic Women there.

It was so special.  

I did get some boxes packed also.   And Joan and Richard took the green leather chair.   Joan wanted it for her reflexology.   And I don't need three chairs and a couch.

Things are getting there.  I am just concerned as to what I do with trash, when I get to the end.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Except for taking a load of stuff to St. Vinnies and stopping at Walgreens.  I got to stay home ALL DAY.   Tomorrow looks the same.   I got a lot done.

Sorting and packing.

I let Nicky come with me to St. Vinnies and he was delighted. 

So same old, same old.

Til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary.

Just got back from 52 Stafford.  Such a lovely evening.  Rip was there so we had a visit.   My friends, Nancy Coenan, Peggy Feider, Kathy Flath and Beth and Dean Dippel were there too.  I got to get my fix of Irish music and sing a couple of songs in memory of Dad.

Til tomorrow

(I get to be home ALL day)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is abominably cold.   Poor Nicky.   He is trying to figure out what I have done to his bathroom.    He did manage to accomplish both of his bodily functions today but it was not easy.

I understand that things may warm up above the 10 Degrees which is where puppy paws really suffer in the next couple of days.

I was home most of the day today.  I only left to mail the last documents required for my final loan approval on my Oklahoma home.   Nicky was delighted because he got to go for a ride for that.

My friend Joan Kramer came over today and harvested the names and emails of Celtic Women who are not on our paid membership.   We all feel that perhaps announcements of events may stimulate membership. Surely worth keeping free communication open.

Then this evening, my neighbors, Bob and Peggy Hurrie, had invited me and another dear neighbor over for dinner.    Nicky could to to that too. 

I did a lot of packing and sorting too.  Tomorrow I will be home all day again.  I am going to 52 Stafford at 6:30PM for dinner and the Craic.   Anybody who wants to come is welcome.

So I am going to watch the president's State of the Union and then go to bed.

Dia Dhuit

mary

What a two days.  

Yesterday was extra special as I was privileged to be a sponsor for Bobbie at her baptism at Grace Episcopal Church in Sheboygan.    It was a beautiful ceremony, a part of a high mass.    After the baptism, I hosted a celebration brunch at the Black Pig in Sheboygan.   A totally wonderful day and celebration.    Good for you, Bobbie.    I was so proud to be a part of your special day.

Today I went to see my friend, Joan Kramer, for my last reflexology treatment.   It was great.   We always have such a nice visit along with the treatment.

Then I drove over to Meadow View Nursing home to say good bye to Harriet, our friend who was such a protector for Mother when she was there.  We have known Harriet forever and she is a dear.  I could not leave without saying goodbye.

Only about 9 more days before I leave.   HELP!!!:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary



"A lottery is a taxation upon all the fools in creation; and heaven be praised, it is easily raised, for credulity's always in fashion." Henry Fielding from The Lottery.