This is the finished wall hanging that I made for the Black Pig.   It is actually 72 X 36 - you can't see all the "barn boards" on each side.   When it is hung, in the Sheboygan Black Pig, I will let you know.   It was fun making it and I think he turned out OK.    The main backing is burlap.


This is the blog for tonight.     Dia Dhuit

Mary

Finally, tomorrow, I get to spend a whole day at home.

Today, however, was very wonderful.    Had Bible Study this morning.  There were six of us there and we got into a conversation comparing the prejudices of Paul's time with the prejudices of today and being amazed how little has changed.   We still don't know how to deal with foreigners.   Even Leviticus 19:33-34 deals with it.  

Then went to see Mom.   She was really good and happy today.   I was able to show her the pictures and short conversations from the interview that my friend Janet did for her on my laptop.    I did not show her the full long one because she couldn't have heard it all.   She was delighted, I could see.   She loved that Aunt Kathleen was in those shorter videos and loved all the pictures of herself.  Dolores is going to ask Kurt to make lots of copies so everyone can have one.   I actually have installed it on my computers.     Mom was also fascinated with the laptop.   I showed a few pictures of  the CWI conference also.    I gave her a pretty Celtic bracelet that I acquired while there.

I took a long nap this afternoon and just put things away.   Tomorrow I will get down to business again.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Home at 4:00PM from a wonderful three day CWI Gathering.   Things went SO well.

Got there at about noon, in plenty of time to check in and get the conference room set up.   Everybody loved the hotel and the convenience of the room.   We had our registration and a wine and cheese reception at 4:30PM.   Then over to Brococh's Irish Inn for dinner, which was great.   A nice Irish Atmosphere.   Got lost on the way back to the hotel, but finally made it.  Then Felicia and I did our presentation on the trip to Scotland we went on last September.    Next year, I can do Cornwall and the Isle of Man.

Saturday brought our annual meeting and election of board members.   All went pretty well except we don't have a volunteer to chair next year's gathering.  Oh.  Well, things always seem to work out.

Then we carpooled to Black Earth to Brigit's Rest and The Black Earth Institute where were treated to a fabulous lunch and a tour of parts of Brigit's Rest by Michael Mc Dermott, the co founder with Patricia Monaghan, an author, poet and dear member of CWI who passed away two years ago.  We had the tree circle explained as we stood in the middle of 18 different trees in the circle.   We went to the Brigit Well on the property and to the place where Pat's ashes are under a tree in a special area of trees that are dedicated to special people.

Back to Madison, I was able to have dinner with Richard and Brenda.   Such a great visit.  We had dinner at the Imperial Chinese Restaurant a few blocks down from the hotel.    I was so happy to be able to tell them that Nicky is playing with the little squeaky hedgehog they had sent to him when I first got him.   Nicky is finally learning how to play.  

That evening one of our members, Sherry Avila gave a talk on the Hedge Schools that were in Ireland from the 16oos to the 18oos as a result of the Penal Laws.  It was fascinating.   It is hard to believe that an invading country could deny education to the youth of an entire nation to keep them subdued, then call them barbarians.  Then we had the drawing for the door prizes which is a very fun part of the gathering.    The baskets and other door prizes are always so spectacular, donated mostly by our members.

We had a scattering ceremony this morning led by our Sheila, sending us on our way to continue to support Celtic Women around the world.

Luann, Felicia and I went to Mass at St. Denis Church (which is the church that I always attended when Dick and I visited Richard in Madison before he got sick.)   After Mass, we headed for home and I picked up my Nicky at about 3:30PM.    Was he ever happy to see me.   Chris said that he was a sad little doggy for the first 2 days and wouldn't eat or drink.   They were afraid that they might not be able to care for him again.   Then he finally got hungry enough and started eating.   He liked the other dogs that were also guests and enjoyed walks.   But he was just frantic and wanting to get in the car to go home.   Guess I am his favorite.   I am glad.

So the day and weekend are both over, I am exhausted and will go to bed.  That will really make my puppy happy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary
Followed by the 

Just back from choir and thought I had better just check in as I will be gone from tomorrow morning until Sunday night.  Wish me good things during this weekend that I am responsible for.

Take care of you while I am gone.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Home all day.   Ready to load the car tomorrow.    Hope all is in order for the Gathering, I have done the best I can.

Chiropractor tomorrow.  I have decided to be at the Exchange Bank tomorrow morning for coffee and breakfast.  Join me if you wish.  ( I actually am almost out of my Colectiva coffee and need to replenish.)  I do this once in a while.  Sometimes someone joins me, sometimes I am alone.  It is fine either way as I bring my book and my notebook for writing with me.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Only three more days until the Gathering.  I believe I have everything on track.    Hope I am right.   Oh well,  It will all be OK in the long run.  We know that when we get together, It is always a good time and we have such fun things planned.

I took Nicky for a ride with me when  I did my errands to day.   That was nice.   He should get to know that not all rides are to the vet.   Of course, Friday morning will be a big lesson for that.   Chris is ready for him.  He will have another dog there.  I know that he will like that.

I am so sore with this weather.   Will be heading to bed as soon as I prepare my coffee pot and take the dog for his last walk

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A wonderful day with Bobbie and Bill at the dinner playhouse in Port Washington, Memories.   We saw a play called Always a Bridesmaid which was very funny as is the usual play put on there.   The dinner is always a buffet.    A fresh salad on the table when you arrive followed by a serving of their famous Fluff as a palate cleanser just before you go to get your food.   

Got home at about 5PM.   Bobbie and Bill helped me switch the front storm door for the screen.   Nicky is so funny, he didn't come out right away when we all walked in.    Sometimes he does that when I come home alone,   I have to call him or go look for him.   Today, he ambled out as they were changing the screen and gave me some love, then he was, I think, a bit confused so he didn't bother barking and even let Bobbie pet him.     I am getting encouraging signs like this, especially as the warm weather is on us and he is meeting more people.

A busy day tomorrow, so I will be going to bed now.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A bit cooler today but bearable.   Got kind of cold when I took Nicky for his long walk and we started around the park.   The wind was blowing right at me and it got pretty cold.
As we walked through the parking lot at the park, I saw a group of guys clustered under the overhang at the ball diamond.   Suddenly this big Golden Labrador Retriever bounded at us.   The guys did not look concerned or call the dog,  so I figured she was friendly, but she pushed Nicky onto his butt.   He was not concerned and just started smelling her and visiting.   So we were OK.   At that point.

I knew a couple of the guys, one was a cousin, Warren Wieser.    So I talked to them a bit and then headed home.   The other dog, happy as can be followed me.  I called out to let them know but they said that she would come back as she had done so all day.   HOWEVER,  we were all the way down the street and she was still happily traveling with us.   My neighbor, Marilyn, came out and asked if I was pet sitting.   We were both cracking up when I told her what had happened.   The dog is named Tootsie Roll and is a friendly as can be.  So while Marilyn and I were talking, Tootsie went into the bushes and came out with a DEAD THING.    Marilyn and I tried to get her to drop it but no way.  So, Marilyn led her back towards the entrance to the ball diamonds and called me to tell me that the owner was just coming out to look for her when they got there.   He managed to get her to drop the dead thing.   She was really quite proud of herself.

So that was the excitement for the day.

I have been gathering things for next weekend.   I have a lot to take along.  Fortunately, I will not bring all of it back with me.

Mass at 4PM.   A nice mass.  Mary Calvey was out cantor and is always a good music leader.

Tomorrow will go to Memories with Bobbie and Bill for a dinner theater afternoon.   This time it is Always a Bridesmaid.   They are always good shows and it is such a joy to spend the day with Bobbie and Bill.  

Received pictures of our Marcus today.   He is such a handsome fellow.   Wish I could plant a kiss on those cheeks.   He is growing up so fast.



So until tomorrow  Dia Dhuit

Mary

Today was unbelievably beautiful.   70 degrees or more.   A gentle breeze.    Dick would have been horrified, I opened all the doors and let the fresh air in ALL DAY.   

Nicky and I had a couple of good walked today.    They had sprayed the yards yesterday, so I kept him as much as possible off of the grassy areas.   As a matter of fact, we went through the park this morning.

I baked some beer bread and scones today as I was pretty much out of any bread at all.   The only things left were one bagel (not a very good one) and two hot cross buns.

At one thirty, my friend Felicia came over and we worked on our presentation of the Scotland trip we are going to do next Friday night at the gathering.   We have the pictures selected and on a disc, now we have to figure out how to get them on a slide show and display them.   I am going to call another buddy, Debbie about that.

Luann also came over and we finished up the plans for registration and the gift bags.

I am almost done - YEA.

This evening I went shooting.   I have no idea what happened with my first target.   I only had two shots on the paper and a score of 4?  :(    The other two were just fine.   An old friend was there with his girlfriend.    She went down with me as she had not seen pistol shooting.   Next time she is there when I am there, we will go down again and review and I told her she can try.

So a busy day over.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I am doing this very early today because I will be going out tonight with my neighbor, Jean, for a concert.   She has an extra ticket and thought of me.   

It was a bit cooler today, but still sunny and VERY acceptable.   My crocus are all blooming gloriously and the other bulbs are reaching for the sky,  no buds yet, that I have seen.

Nicky and I have had a couple of walks.   Parm's sprayed the lawns so we have to be careful of him spending too much time on them.   I will take him into the park instead.

I have been pretty sore since you massage, not unusual, and had my chiropractor's appointment this afternoon.   We have decided to start a massage/chiro after I get back from Madison but I will see Dr. Wiegand next week.    I will call Heather tomorrow.

Am  caught up (until tomorrow) on every project that I have deadlines on.   Whew.   Tomorrow, Felicia and I are going to work on our Scotland presentation for the gathering.

So until tomorrow.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Got his today from a fellow writer - thought it amusing.  TRY to read it dramtically!

Speaking of prepositions...

When I taught 5th Grade back in the 70's, I encouraged my students to memorize the following poem for extra credit. (They had to recite dramatically.) You may already be aware of it. I learned it from my mother who said she learned it in school in the 20's. (I don't know the ultimate source.)

Until by into after from,

Across against with toward on,

Among around along of to,

Beside beyond below at through.

Upon in for beneath between,

Behind before without within;

Up over under down about,

Since underneath - except throughout!

During past near like inside...

Amid? Abaft? Off! Outside!

Rand (A writer Friend)

Just got home from Poets at Mead in Sheboygan at Mead Library.   It was such a great night of wonderful poems, some by our members and some by our favorite poets.    I picked up Sy Regan as usual.    We have one more meeting before the summer, then will resume again, I hope in the Fall.

A beautiful day.    Nicky and I had a couple of really good walks and he met up with people.   He IS getting better but still CAN be defensive.    I also went grocery shopping this morning.

I am really tired but will share the haiku that I shared tonight.  No name but a haiku.

An unlucky day?
Full of joy and music
I think NOT!

by me

I also shared one of my favorite poems, Get Drunk by Charles Baudelaire.

Take Care
Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just a quick note as I am exhausted.   I started at 9AM with Bible Study.   We had a full table with only two people not there.   An animated discussion.   The Book of Acts seems to be doing that to us.  

Then on for my visit with Mom.   Dolores and Ken were there too, picking up her wash so had a bit of a visit with them,  then Mom and I had time together too.  

Then I drove out on Hwy V to pick up Sy Regan to go to The Sheboygan County Writers Club with me.   We had a big crowd as there were two speakers on hot to make a living writing.   It, as can be imagined, requires a lot of work, attention to detail and some diversity.   Glad I don't HAVE to make a living at it.   Maybe thirty years ago.

After I dropped Sy off at home, I came home.   Took my little Nicky out, answered a couple of phone calls and then walked over to the Hurrie's for the condo board of directors meeting that started at 4:15PM.   Got home at about 5:30PM.   

I am supposed to be retired!!!  What the heck happened?   I know, I forgot that word that Dick taught me - NO.

Til tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was over 60 degrees today.  What a pleasure. that was.  Nicky was beside himself.

I went to Mass this morning.   Fr. Dan led a recitation of the Divine Savior Chaplet after Mass in the chapel. 

I had the rest of the day at home and finished up about three projects so I am ready for the week.

Pray that things don't get twisted up this next week.

I am going to bed now.

Love you all

Dia Dhut

Mary

Another week gone

Well, this was a better day weather wise.   It was windy, but at least the sun was shining and the temperatures were above 40 degrees.   I think they hit the mid 50s for a bit.

My friend, Janet Bieschke, picked me up at about 9:45AM and we went to Meadow View to see Mom.   Janet does a lot of volunteering with hospice patients and one of the things she does is to interview them and prepare a DVD of the interview for families.   She asked if we would like her to do one of Mother.   She brings non obtrusive video and audio recorders and just lets the people talk with simple questions to trigger a conversation.   Mom did really well with her stories.  She had trouble hearing Janet's questions but it made no difference.    Aunt Kathleen came as we were wounding down so I got to see her for a bit too and we left in  time that Mom and she could have a good visit.   I will be excited to see the result.

I, frankly was rather lazy this afternoon, though I did a bit of wash.    Tonight I went to Rhine to shoot pistol.  Not too bad.   I will probably simply have to exercise my left arm, as if I don't have enough exercises to be doing.  Doc was there tonight.   A dear friend that I have not seen in such a long time.      He dropped out of the club too.   His wife has not been well.    It was SOO good to see him.

Now I want to finish the Pig wall hanging tonight and tomorrow finish Scotland of my book.   See - I figure if I put it in writing, I HAVE to do it.

So until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A rainy day.   Not too cold and it looked like  I would not have to go out after all as Kate postponed her birthday lunch.

BUT - when I woke up and opened the deck curtains, Nicky's clue that we are ready for his walk,  he did not jump out of bed.    First, I could only see his lump under the covers.  Then I saw him kind of wiggle towards an edge.  But he kept stopping.   I got all ready and finally peeked under the blanket to see if he was OK.   Lo and behold, the poor puppy had caught his dew claw in his collar.    His eyes were SO big.   I unhooked him and checked his nails.  He had not injured himself and sure enough, they all needed a clipping, though the regular claws were worn down some from walking,  However, the dew claws were curled back like a hook.   So I took him to the vet for a clipping.  He might not do it again before his next checkup but he could and could really tear himself up if he got frightened enough.   He was an angel at the vet.

So we did a bit of this and a bit of that today.   Took him out for a hopefully last walk tonight to thunder and lightening and a misty rain.

Dia Dhuit

The skies just opened up.   Rain is pounding on the roof.   Sure glad we got back in time.

Mary

Today was the quietest day this week.   

Started out quite early with a hair cut at Klips and Tips at 9AM.    Then I did my grocery shopping.  Since then I am home and is it ever nice to have the whole rest of the day here. 

Nicky and I took two nice walks today.   It was wet out there this morning.  I heard thunder and then a nice steady rain during the night.   We had a good walk this morning and a better one this afternoon.   The lawn maintenance are putting mulch in our berms.   This is very exciting for Nicky.   He seems to think that he can chase the big machines away though.   I have to really shorten his leash or he tries to run them off.   I have not convinced him that they are bigger by far than he is.

Tomorrow will be even quieter as my only scheduled event is to have a birthday lunch with my friend Kate.   We are eating Mexican.   Yeaa.

Dia dhuit

Mary

And I thought yesterday was busy.   Today was just as packed.

First, I had my annual physical with Dr. Murthy this morning.   All is well, except for my pain which we continue to work on.  He did suggest that perhaps I should try massage therapy again, so I have a call in to Heather who has done that for me before.

Then I came home.  Bonnie was cleaning when I got here.   Nicky was fine with her as long as I was gone, and not so nasty after I came back.

At 1PM, I drove into Sheboygan to Mark Miller, my friend and accountant, to pick up my taxes.    I am OK this year have to pay a bit in one, but have enough back from the other that it makes up for it, pays Mark and gives me a bit to play with.   

On the way, I picked up a bottle of Madiera for Mother and took it over to Meadow View.   Had a short visit with her and then finished getting some things settled with the office.

Then home, via voting at Plymouth City Hall and stopping at the Post Office to check for Tall Grass mail.

Got home at about 3PM exhausted and have finished lots of paperwork and contacted several people for appointments.

Now, I just need to walk the Nicky and then go to bed.   I am sipping on a nice Irish Coffee (decaf of course).   Tastes pretty good.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Busy all day. 

Our travelers, Helen and Tom and Kathy are back from their winter journeys.   It was so good to see them again.  We had a good study.

Mom is fine.   When I got there, Dolores, Ken and Morgan, Dolores's granddaughter, were there.   I got communion to everybody and was able to spend a little time with the Thuemmlers too.

Bart called tonight.  All of Barb's tests about the lump came back negative.  Bart sounded much better and I feel like a million dollars.

Got a lot of other things. done.  I finished the Pig, that I have been working on.  I will take pictures and send them tomorrow along with a picture of Mom on Easter.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Happy Easter

What a lovely Easter.   Jeff and Kathy picked me up shortly after 10AM and we went to Meadow View for a lovely visit and dinner with Mother.   She was fine, and we all enjoyed ourselves remembering and looking a pictures that Jeff is trying to get names to faces on.    Good Lord, he is still sorting pictures.    I think they are reproducing the the boxes and envelopes that he took home.   Better him than me.

We had ham, potatoes, broccoli and a delicious coconut cake for our dinner.   Had a little visit with a family friend Harriet Carpenter.   She and Jeff have been betting on the sports events.  Jeff won the Badger bet and they are on for tomorrow night.    They figure that they are about even right now.

Tomorrow will be a big sports day in Wisconsin what with opening day for the Brewers and that final game for the Badgers.   Wouldn't it be something if they take it all!

I fixed a small omelet for my supper with the first of the chives in my front garden.    See, spring will and is coming.    We had a small rain this morning, but really do need more.    Poor California is in dire straights I hear.

Well, love you all.   This is the first year that I ever remember not dying Easter eggs.   Seems odd, but then I did make hot cross buns and I like them better.   Gave one to Mom and sent some home with Jeff and Kathy.

They brought me a piece of Angel Food Cake.   She put lemon curd in it.   I hope she never loses that recipe.   It was SO good.

Dia Dhuit

mary

Holy Saturday

Just got home from the Saturday service.    Our choir sang for three days in a row.   This service is a bit longer than most as it involves the blessing of fire, the blessing of water and the sacraments of baptism and/or confirmation to adults that are joining the church or just did not receive them in their youth for one reason or another.   We had two adults receiving their confirmation tonight .  

Tomorrow, Easter, I will not have to go to church but as I said, will be going to have dinner with Mother, Jeff and Kathy.   Jeff and Kathy are going to pick me up.  

I will take advantage of Jeff being here to tighten the bolt on my toilet as it is leaking from the water reservoir.

Now it is late for me,  and Nicky is waiting to go to bed.   On one of our walks, we ran into my neighbor Linda and her granddaughter Mariska.   Nicky was fine with them and even let Mariska crouch down and love him.   I was so encouraged.


Dia Dhuit

Mary

This morning it was pleasant

That sure has change.   I wore a spring coat to church this afternoon and when we stepped out after the service, I darned near froze.   I was going to get gas but decided it was too cold.   So I filled the tank on the way to pistol league instead when I was dressed for it.

Nicky and I had an exciting day.    We went to Chris, the dog sitter's home, so that Nicky and she could meet.    I was afraid that he would be barky and snappy, but he surprised me.   The first thing he did was to get really interested in the back yard- lots of good doggy smells there.   He was not running up to her or Rick when he came down.   But he really did not do any serious barking or growling and he played nice with a dog that was being pet sat at the time.   SO I am VERY happy.   I know how happy Zero was with them when we were gone and now that I know that Nicky can be pleasant around others in their world,  all will be good.

Good Friday today so the choir sang for the Good Friday services at 1PM.   We warmed up at 12:30 and sang until almost 2PM so my voice is well used today.  Then this evening I DID go to shoot.    I will be gone the weekend of April 24th and Mother's day weekend and don't want to have to do more than three targets a night to catch up.     Had good times and visits with the guys.   I do enjoy shooting and the league.

Tomorrow night the choir will sing again,   I will not go to mass on Sunday then.   Sunday I am looking forward to dinner with Mom and Jeff and Kathy.   Jeff checked and they do have ham on Easter at Meadow View.    I have made up a little basket for Mom.

I am going to make hot cross buns too so if anybody wants some let me know.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Got the following from a friend today.

Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.

What a beautiful day.  Warm.  I even opened some of the windows and doors today.  Dick would have been horrified.


Theya re working on getting the bed ready for the railroad tracks and are they even noisy.  They keep piling up dirt and then moving it again.   Over and Over.   Noisy time.

I had lots of errands this morning.     Bank, Shopping, St. Vinnies, and Walgreens.   Took over two hours.   Yikes.

Tomorrow starts the Holy Days.   Will be singing in the evening at the Holy Thursday service.

I also have a chiropractor appointment.   I was so sore yesterday.   A bit better today.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a day.

It was really beautiful today, sunny, not windy and in the 50s.  When Me. Nicky and I went for our morning walk, I could hear the Sandhill cranes, who live in our wetlands, bugling like crazy.    Then I saw them circling to the west.    Finally they came up over the end of Tallgrass just overhead and I got the best view of them.    I will have to start taking my camera along on the walks.

We had a good Bible Study today.   Our Ione was back after three weeks off.   Pray for her as she is struggling with shingles.   Peggy was back too from her latest trip to Florida to spend time with her daughter so we were 6 of us.    Winter snowbirds will be back soon and we will get back to our 10 or so.

Had a lovely visit with Mother.   I had an extra person to give communion to.  It works out.  I am getting confused as to how many hosts I need as some cannot handle the full host, so I break them into pieces for them.  One of my sweet little ladies always tells me that she is Catholic.  Which is so cute.

Mom got a basket from Church full of granola bars, fruit, candy and all kinds of other food.   She was so pleased but asked me to take some things.  So I took the instant oatmeal and some raisins.

Got home about 12:30PM.   I had to go to Aurora for a mammogram today.   Thank heavens they are only once a year.    Not hard but uncomfortable and icky.  

I fixed a good old Velveeta grilled cheese for my supper.    Some things just need Velveeta.


Dia dhuit

Mary


Tennessee Williams said: "A high station in life is earned by the gallantry with which appalling experiences are survived with grace."

At a soccer match in Washington DC. El Salvador was to play Argentina.   Before the match it is customary to play the national anthem from each country.   Imagine the irritation and surprise when instead of the anthem of El Salvador they played the anthem from the Isle of Man.   No happy faces on the players.   An apology was tendered.  Don't know if it helped.


Many people probably are not even sure where the Isle of Man is.   But I will be visiting it, as part of my bucket list, in September.   It is one of the seven Celtic Nations.

We were home all day.    Went for a couple of walks.   It did rain this morning but did not freeze and our walks were rain free.   The wind has picked up tonight so our last trip to Nicky's bathroom will be quick if I have anything to say about it.

I worked on the Pig today.   I am almost done.   I figure that I will probably be done by Thursday, then I will call Bob to let Rob know that I have it.  

Talked to Jeff today.   We are planning to join Mom at Meadow View for Easter Dinner.  We don't have plans as yet and can't think of any way better to spend an Easter.   I think I will make a basket for her.

Tomorrow is a comparatively quiet Monday as I only have Bible Study and the visit to Mom.   No other meetings.

We are supposed to get warmer weather in the next couple days.  Sure will be nice.  Maybe my bones will stop aching.

Dia dhuit

Mary

The sky was a beautiful blue today, only spotty clouds that were pure white against the blue.   It was not too warm.   It was 40 when I went to church, but there was no wind to speak of and Nicky was delighted and really enjoyed his walks today.    He got to meet my friends, the Cooks, dog Glory today.   They sniffed each other and seemed to be fine.  When it is warm, perhaps they can play together.

We sang Palm Sunday music tonight at church and I think we did quite well.    Scot picked out some really beautiful music for us, some of it quite difficult, and worked with us until we got it.  We are not professional so this is quite an accomplishment.   This coming week will be our busiest of the year as we sing on Thursday, Friday AND Saturday.

My ribs are pretty sore tonight so I am going to go and sit on the couch which will be more comfortable and sew until it is time for bed.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is COLD.

We really got spoiled with those days in the 40s and 50s last week and the week before.   This is just NOT fair.    Yesterday, Nicky and I walked in a flurry, albeit a very light flurry, but a flurry none the less and today it never got above freezing.

Doesn't the weather know that a week from Sunday is Easter?

I am seeing green in the grassy areas and along the roadway, so I won't give up.

The new pistol league at Rhine Plymouth began tonight.  I went at about 5:30AM to beat the crowd.  Actually the first night is sometimes slow anyway as people forget, or decide to take a week off between the leagues.  I am still using my left hand and am all over the place.   My first target was eh and I only got 9 on the target.   The second target was great.    All the shots were scoring, would have been better if they were centered better, but they DID all score.   The last one, all were on the target but I had the cutest little pattern of 4 shots just below scoring circle on the right side.   GRRRR.

Just have to keep plugging along.

Next Friday, I will be taking Nicky to meet Chris Kuitert, the pet sitter that took care of Zero when Dick and I traveled years ago.    I told her what a stinker he is with adults, she understands dogs and thinks that will be OK.   Since I am going to Madison at the end of April, I want to have things in the works.

So,  tomorrow is a weekend.   I know, how do I tell.   But there is a difference in the feeling of a weekend day.    Will be singing at the 5PM Mass tomorrow and home all day on Sunday.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Choir tonight.  We are all set (we hope)  for the Easter Week.   The music Scott picked is beautiful and we seem to have it mastered.  

Well,  Saturday night will be the beginning of the proof of the pudding.

I had an appointment with my chiropractor, Dr. Wiegand, this morning.   She seems to have managed to loosen me up.  I was in a lot of pain in my neck and shoulders.   Sure wish we would get some warm weather and that this unsettled weather would go away.

Talked to a friend, Maureen, this evening.   She is one of my Chicago friends and I am so glad that I am privileged to know her.  

Tomorrow, Friday.  I will be busy all day with the gathering and the Pig.   I am on the second last section of the Pig.   Hope Rob, from the Black Pig, likes it when I am done.    It is turning out like I planned.

Til Tomorrow,

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Woke up to snow on the ground.    It did not last past noon but was a bit distressing.   Nicky did not seem to mind it.   The streets were clear as with the sun we had had for several days the snow melted.   I was so glad.  That meant no ice which would have hurt Nicky's feet.

I had a meeting with three of my Celtic Ladies about the Gathering this noon.   We went to Black Wolf Run.   I had not been there for quite a long time.    I had a pita club sandwich and sweet potato chips.   Very good.  I brought half home.   I just remembered that I put the chips in the fridge.   What a ditz I am.

The meeting went well.   We have the schedule as solid as it can be.   Changes are usually needed but the days look really full and interesting as I have them scheduled.    Three great programs.   The Black Earth Institute, a travel report on Scotland and as talk on the Hedge Schools in Ireland.   I am really pleased.

So tomorrow I am home until 6 when I have choir practice.   Holy Week starts Sunday with Palm Sunday.   Time is flying.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Hello again

I guess I took a couple of days off.  After the days from March 13 t0 the 20th, I was just beat.    Sunday was the first day in all those days that I was did not have anything scheduled.   

I pulled in the drawbridge and just hibernated.    Nicky loved it.

Monday I was just plain busy again.   Went to Bible Study, to see Mom and then home.   After lunch and taking Nicky for a nice LONG walk, I took him for a ride just to get him used to being in a car as I don't know if he was ever taken for rides before.   He behaves quite well while riding anyway.   I had to go to Walgreens, the post office, the bank and to drop some OLD meds off at the police station. 

Today was all day at home again.   Yea!  It did have its oddness.   I got a call from Bonnie, the owner of the company I used for cleaning.   The gal who has been cleaning my house had called Bonnie to say she was not available for her Monday job.   She called at 10PM on Sunday night.   Bonnie was unable to reach her since then.  She had indicated that she would let her know about today but did not call and would not answer her phone.   So I don't know what is going on.   Bonnie and one of her girls came over this afternoon and cleaned but who knows what will be happening next week. I already changed my day from Friday to Tuesday to accommodate that girl.   Oh well, Bonnie always figures it out.

I booked my flights for Cornwall and the Isle of Man.   I also booked my hotel for the Isle of Man.   The tour company will take care of my hotel bookings in London.

I am so excited, seeing the sights of London through Richard and Brenda's eyes.   They will be good advisers for the time that I AM in London.   What a great way to celebrate Brenda's birthday.

Tomorrow I will be out for lunch and a meeting with my Celtic Friends.   We are doing the schedule for the Gathering.  

Guess that is all.

Dia dhuit

Mary

ALWAYS SMILE

Life isn't always full of reasons to smile,
but your smile itself is a reason for others to smile too.

I finally saw my first Robin!

On one of my walks with Nicky, we saw a big fat robin up in a tree.   Another spring sign.   Only the worms on the street if we get a heavy warm rain.

I took a couple bags of stuff over to St. Vinnie's today.  I took Nicky with me.   Figured a ride or two for him here and there would be a good thing.   He seemed mildly pleased.   While I was unloading the car, he was very good at staying.   I had to remind him but he did listen.  Did some sewing and work on the conference today too.

Tonight was the bust up at Rhine Plymouth for the Trap and Pistol leagues.   Had a great time, saw some old friends who are usually there after I leave during the league itself.  We had a chicken dinner with steak fries and fried fish for us mackerel snappers.    My friends Nancy and Pat both brought desserts too.   Good meal.   The new league starts next Friday.    Want to shoot again, Bobbie?

Guess that is the day.  

Dia dhuit

Mary

The day was cloudy but not too cold.  I think I saw my first robin.   He was way up high in a tree, but it sounded like one.

Nicky and I had a couple of good walks.  I also got a lot done on various projects. 

Today is my Bart's birthday.   I had talked to him yesterday but did call today anyway.   He had to put up with me singing at least part of Happy Birthday to him.   I did not make him listen to the whole thing. Can't believe that my baby is 44 years old.

Choir tonight.  The practice went well.   Good because we just have two weeks til the start of Holy Week.

So until tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just a note before I go to bed.   Just got back from the Poets at Mead meeting.  It was fun.   There were 21 people there.  The most at one meeting, I think.   Karl Elder, our leader, had brought champagne, wine and cake to celebrate the 50th meeting of the Mead Poetry Circle.    We were asked to bring poems that related to 50 in some way - the work 50, the number of lines, the number of syllables.   Whatever.   Got some really good work out of that.

Now it is time to wind down for the night.  Nicky was glad to have me back home.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Such a great St. Patrick's Day.   

I met my Celtic Women at the Exchange Bank in Plymouth (where I was able to pick up my coffee- I was down to one more day of the good stuff.)  We had a great gathering then carpooled up to the Family Video at Highland and Eastern to join the stalwart Irish persons who marched proudly down the hill and down Mill Street to Stafford to enjoy our shot of good old Irish Whiskey at 52 Stafford.

Jeff and Kathy were there.   We got tired of waiting so the Celtic Women with our banner proudly flapping in the wind, started out with my friend Morreen O'Reilly Mersberger carrying the staff and a picture of her Dad, Pat O'Reilly,   (Uncle Pat) who marched in all of the parades and sang at all the Irish events until his death.   We all miss him Morreen - thank you for not letting us forget him.  

We, Celtic Women, then commandeered a table and enjoyed a good meal at the Stafford before scattering to our lives again.  Such a great day.

The last four have been so full.   I have a rather full week but the next days are a bit more easy to manage.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

St. Patrick's Eve

The night before the Holy Day.

I will be heading for bed soon after a busy busy day.  
9:30AM Bible Study.   I am beginning to like St. Paul more all the time.   A friend of mine several years ago said that If I learned more about him I would like him and she is right.

Then went to see Mom.   She was in a sing a long when I got there, so I joined the group.   Lots of fun.  Then we went back to her room for a visit before her lunch.

Got home in time to GRAB a sandwich and to to Book Heads for the Cream City Writers Meeting.  There were just four of us, so we read and picked a topic for next month then I came home.

I had time to catch up a bit before the 3:30PM Tall Grass Condo board meeting.


So You can see that I have a right to be a bit tired.   I didn't work this hard when I had a job.

Til tomorrow.  

Dia dhuit

Mary

Oh what a wonderful day.

Bobbie and Bill picked me up at 11:30AM for the dinner theater presentation of Escanaba in da Moonlight at Memories in Port.  A nice day for a drive, to begin with.   Then we had such a good dinner of chicken, beef tips, noodles and mashed potatoes with veggies.  

The play was hysterical.  I haven't laughed that hard in ages.   The actors were So good and the play is one of the funniest that I have seen.   It has been around for a while and there is a movie, but I had never seen it before so it was really special.

I know that my hunter brothers would find it just as funny.

So I decided to pretty much take the rest of the day off.  I am just puttering on things around the house.   Tomorrow is a typical Monday and Tuesday is the "holy day" St. Patrick's Day.    So I will be occupied with parades and Irish things that day.  

For some reason, Bobbie and I started talking about Steak Tartar during dinner.   Sounds rather good. I have not had it since Dick is gone.   He used to have me pick up a pound of good ground sirloin once in a while and a loaf of good half and half Rye for THAT treat.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A Grand Day

Another warm day with sunshine.  Soon the snow mountains will all be gone.   I saw and heard my first red winged blackbird this afternoon when Nicky and I were out walking.    He is just turning into an outdoor fiend.   I can't blame him for liking it out there.   All new smells and his feet don't get cold.

Bobbie and I went to the Kohler Demonstration Kitchen for their Irish Cooking Class.   Lots of fun.   We learned how to make Irish bacon from a loin cut.   We learned how to make corned beef hash from the last or just leftover corned beef, how to poach and hold eggs and how to make a Green Velvet Cake.  Actually Bobbie makes poached eggs.   I never have.

We, of course, got to taste everything plus two beers.   I tasted them and they were not bad.   Kind of sweet and one was also citrusy.  I forgot what they were, but that is OK.  I probably won't want them anyway.

Everything was good, except --- The chef demonstrator put balsamic vinegar in the hash and frankly, I did not care for it.  As long as the poached egg lasted, it was edible, but I couldn't finish it.  Bobbie and I decided that we just have a refined palate.

The choir sang at mass tonight,  I was lector too.  This has happened twice and is workable.  If I am communion minister, I change with somebody because I would miss some of the singing, but lectoring and singing don't happen at the same time.     Scott, our director, was proud of us tonight.   We could tell that we did well also.   It feels good when we do.   He is picking some really gorgeous music, I must say.

Tomorrow, Escanaba in Da Moonlight, at Memories with Bobbie and Bill.

I love time with them.   We always have fun.

I am blessed.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got back from Shamrocks and Shenanigans at the Plymouth Arts Center.   Mary Calvey really outdid herself this year.   She had a super group of musicians supporting her and they sang and played traditional and Irish American  music that warmed the soul.    Glad I went.  I sat with three friends.  Sonia Prichard,  Kathy Flath and Jena Hoftiezer.   We had a glass of wine and chips together and just enjoyed the music.

Must get to bed.  Tomorrow I go to an Irish cooking class at Woodlake with Bobbie.

Yee Haa.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Shopping this morning.   The only time I had to leave the complex.   I had loose plans to go to 52 Stafford this evening, but Pat, my neighbor who wanted to go, was not feeling well, so we figure there will be lots of Wednesdays that we can go.

I am probably just as well off resting for the next day or so as the weekend THROUGH St. Patrick's Day is Packed.  I don't like to miss anything, you know, but I do get worn out sometimes.

So.   I spent time sewing, and working on the Gathering and trying to find lost things.

Isn't that the most annoying thing.   You know Exactly where something is and then you go to get it and it is Not there.  EEEEEUUUUUUU


So tomorrow chiropractor and choir practice.   I have felt pretty good except for afternoon and evening headaches.   I just don't want to take mid day meds.


Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another beautiful day in the 50s.    The snow is almost gone.   The deep drifts that the plows left are still there of course.  There are also "mini lakes" in the low spots.    Fortunately, Nicky is not fond of puddles and mainly avoids them.   We had a couple of nice walks today.   The last couple of days, we have ended up walking with one or the other of our neighbors and he seems to be  calming down a bit.   Now exactly welcoming but much better.

I picked up my ticket for Shamrocks and Shenanigans.  Sonja Prichard joined me at PAC so we could sit together.   There will be lots of other friends too.   That will be the beginning of five days of activities.   I need to REALLY rest on Friday. 

Sonia and I had lunch at Antoinette's.   I got a Mexican plate so have a burrito and half a chimichunga left for lunches, the next couple of days.

Had errands at the post office and Walgreens too.   Did get home by 2:30PM today.   Put another part on the Black Pig stitchery.  

Tomorrow, grocery shopping early then I am joining a friend at 52 Stafford for a bit of music in the evening.

Just about time to take Mr Nick out for his last bathroom call and get ready for bed.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A super busy Monday made busier by a silly mistake.

Bible Study at 9:30AM.   There were just four of us.    We finished out discussing of Acts 20.   A lot to discuss in this one as Paul is instructing his followers in Ephesus how they should behave and continue as he would never see them again in this life.   Lots to talk about.

Then I went to visit Mother.   She seems good.   She says that she is so weak but did also say that she felt better today than she had felt the past couple of days.   I think the warmth and the sunshine will perk her up.

Then I picked up Sy Regan and we went to the Sheboygan Writers' Club.   There are always at over 20 people at this meeting.   This meeting those who had accepted, read from and assignment to write 300 words or less on an item or picture that we had.  I wrote a poem about my Heeland Coo.   I shared the photo that I took of the one that I almost petted  in Scotland.

Here is the poem.

 

Tatie, the Highland Coo

Those huge black eyes looked deep into mine.

She had to be at least twenty six

though she did not look a day over twenty.

She stood at the fence

expecting a treat

which I did not have.

I reached to brush her furry locks.

She calmly pushed my arm away

with the huge long horns that graced her head.

Her demeanor said, “Do not touch my body!”

Those horns were enough for me.

She was agreeable to pose for photos,

probably used to paparazzi snapping shots.

It was at this point that I fell in love

with my new favorite animal

this noble creature known in the Scottish Highlands

as Heeland Coo,

a name that surely suits her.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got of the phone with Richard and Brenda.   All the protests in Madison made me feel that I should talk to my kids there.  They are fine and getting ready for their trip to England.

Today was a good day.  I was home all day except for a quick trip to Rhine Plymouth to finish my targets for the pistol league.   I knew that I could not go next Friday, so needed to get out there.  You know how I hate to not complete a task.

Nicky and I had a couple or three of really nice walks.   I went out at about 1PM and met Marilyn, one of my neighbors.  He usually barks like crazy at her and seems quite aggressive, but with our walk, he calmed down a lot.  I am hoping that this is a sign that he will warm up to people with interaction as summer comes on.

The week is rather quiet.   I am so glad as starting on Friday, the St. Patrick Day events are really piled up.


Daylight savings time is on us.   So far so good.  I actually stayed in bed a bit longer this morning but cannot do that tomorrow.

So. Until tomorrow

Dia dhuit

Mary

Saturday and warm

Some of you might not feel that 40 is warm, but to us at this point it feels indescribably mellow.   Little Nicky was bouncing all over the place when we walked this morning.  

I was home all day until 3:30PM.   I have a quiet weekend.   Just plugging along on the several projects that I seem to be juggling.  

Mass was good.   I was able to sub for communion as someone did not show.   I always feel so much a part of the service if I get to be a minister.    Next weekend, the choir is singing AND I am a lector.   Don't know how she manages to assign me as lector when we are singing, but it doesn't really matter as both can be done.

I have decided to go to Shamrocks and Shenanigans at the Plymouth Arts Center next weekend.  A friend, Rosemary Mugan, and her family are going on Friday so I will join them.   I know I will know people there anyway, but really wanted to meet someone, so I put out the word and Rosemary answered right away.   Nice way to start celebrating St. Patrick's day.

Guess that is all.   I am very tired and getting sore.  Thins are Much better than they were several months ago.   At least I get up feeling good.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got off the phone with Suzi.  I came home from Choir practice and had two messages, one from Suzi, so I called her right away.   We had a lovely visit.     We need to get together and/or talk more.   We are DEFINITELY doing Irish Fest this year.

I was busy all day with lots of calls and projects then left at 4:00PM for an exhibition of my Friend Jean Tobin's paintings at the UW Sheboygan.    She also comes to the Poets at Mead meetings.   She has changed her subjects a couple times.   This exhibit was Flowers and Faces.   They are gorgeous.  Her paintings will be on display at the Fine Arts Gallery until the end of March.

So now it is past my bed time but I feel really good about the day.

Until tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary   

This was a marathon day.   Even busier than most of my Mondays. 

Started off with my usual Bible Study.   We were six strong.   With all those on vacation pretty good.   We are still in Acts learning this week about another event in Paul's life.   These are chapters that we don't hear at Mass which is where most Catholics used to get all their bible learning.    This week,  Paul seems to be aware that he is heading to his death as he tells the people he will not be returning to them and admonished them to stay the course.

Then on to visit Mom.    I always bring communion to the Catholics there, you know. This week even my sleepy head was awake.  If she is sound asleep, I sometimes cannot wake her.   It is OK because I don't think she is aware of what day it is.   Mom and I had a good visit.    On the way to her lunch, the nurse weighed her.    She thinks she is gaining weight and is planning on dieting.  I told her that she is pretty stable, which the nurse agreed on.

Then I dropped off papers at Mark Miller, my friend and accountant's, office.   And finally home.   Lots to do here before going for my Chiropractor appointment.  I think I am a bit more sore now.   Will use heat tonight.

Finally, I went to church for the Sacrament of Reconciliation with my neighbor, Jean.   St. John's has a communal service followed by private confessions during Lent.   

Bart called this afternoon and we had a good visit.   He is quite a guy.   Sometimes he will call if he gets to an appointment early.   Passes the time and I am always glad to visit.

So I am a tired girl and will take the dog out soon and then go to bed.   He seems a bit off today.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

March first

I am a bit concerned.   The day is definitely lamb like.   According to folk lore, the end of the month will be awful.   In like a lamb, out like a lion.     However, I am not going to COMPLAIN about this beautiful day.   I almost feels balmy.

Home all day.   I believe that I am now ready for the coming week.   Ready for Bible Study, a meeting with Jeff and Mom at Meadow View and I have the last of my tax documents for Mark.

I baked some rhubarb muffins this afternoon.    I cooked up some teriyaki Squirrel.    It tastes good, but is kind of tough because of the membrane.   I will share with Randy and Jeff to see what they think.  If they like it I can try it for the Wild Game Dinner next year providing we have squirrel.

Just finished dinner.  The muffins are to die for.  Stop by any time for your share.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

March 1

Saturday The LAST day of February

Last night I went shooting at Rhine.    I had one REALLY good target, the middle one.  The first was awful, the last was EH!.   I must keep concentrating and not rush.

Then I went to Sheboygan to the SVA (Sheboygan Visual Artists) opening of their new show.    It was fun.   Of course, I knew several people.   I showed my artist friends the picture of the Heeland Coo (Highland Cow) that I did at the Art Vino evening.  They liked it.  I was SO pleased.   Time Ebenreiter said that we can use the facility for  Bloomsday again so I am pleased with that.  My friend, Bob Fleming, was there.   He is a member of SVA so I expected him.   We are having lunch on Friday to catch up.   I took one of the small canvases for the annual Small Works project that they do.   Anyone who wants can take a canvas.   You have until June to complete an art piece on the small canvas and return it  to be put on the wall.   Then people buy them.   You get a painting and if you want you can exchange it for another one.  Gets really exciting.    I have no idea what medium I will be using or what I will do but there is Plenty of time.  RIGHT?

Today was pretty quiet.   A friend, Kathy Flath, came over to borrow my Galway Bay as she is interested in it after our book discussion.   Then she can move on to Of Irish Blood.   They are both by my friend Mary Pat Kelly.   I am eagerly waiting for the film version of Galway Bay which I understand it in the works.   

Mass tonight,  the choir sang.    We did great on some and OK on the rest.   I must practice more.   I also have the basic pig sewn on the wall hanging.   Now I need to give him character and embellishments.   The fun part.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Nothing too exciting today.  I sewed on the Black Pig stitchery.   I worked on the book and the Gathering.

Went to Choir practice tonight.   We really are working hard for Holy Week and Easter.   Can't believe that tomorrow is Friday already.

My ribs are so sore, so I am going to bed RIGHT NOW.

Sleep tight.

Dia dhuit

Mary

Mid week already.   This is a much quieter week than the past SEVERAL.   Yesterday I got to be home all day.   Boy did I get a lot done.

Today was almost as good.   I did go grocery shopping this morning.   Have to get my lottery ticket, you know.   Nicky always is excited to look in the bags when I get home.   I do usually have cans for him, but of course, he cannot smell through the metal.   But I had other good smelling things in there.

Worked more on the book and on the Gathering today. 

This evening I went to church for the Stations of the Cross.   Only during Lent and it is a nice devotion.   I sat where I usually do in church and all of a sudden there were about a dozen kids from RE (religious ed) came in .   All kinds of empty seats but they joined me.   I was pleased it is always good to have young people with you.   And in church it seemed very special.    I am sure they were confused and impressed by all the genuflecting, kneeling and standing that goes on with the Stations.   I hope they listened to what they were reading.    It is a powerful prayer.

Tomorrow home most of the day.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Bitter cold again today.   The only saving graces were sunshine and very little wind.   It is supposed to be at least 20 degrees warmer tomorrow.   Just for tomorrow and wind will be involved.  Please come, Spring.

Bible Study this morning.   There were only four of us there today but it was a great discussion.   This is another part of Acts that we have not really heard before.   It involved what we found a funny description of St. Paul talking for hours and hours.    As the time dragged on,  a young man, whose name means Lucky, fell asleep and fell out of the window and was declared dead.   Paul went down and hugged him then stated that he was alive and lo and behold he was alive again.   Reminiscent of other cases in bible stories of people brought back to life by the prayers of holy men.    This all took place during the Jewish Passover, so we read that account from the Old Testament and were amazed at how specific God's directions were to the Jewish people.     Sometimes life would be easier if He would be a bit more specific with us?

Had a lovely visit with Mom.   She is doing well.   Says she feels weak and her arthritis hurts her but her spirits are good.    She will be playing Bingo this evening.

This afternoon I saw Dr. Wiegand, my chiropractor,   I am a bit more sore than when I went to her but it is also quite late in the day and I always hurt more then.   This morning, my ribs did not hurt at all, but by the time I got to her they were beginning to ache.

Well, I am going to do a bit of sewing and then go to bed and read.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A whole day at home.   It was cold outside but at least two of Nicky's walks brought sunshine and little wind so it was good.

Becky and Elizabeth dropped by this afternoon with the Girl Scout Cookies.   Yea.   They were able to stay for a bit to enjoy some tea and cola and cookies, mine, before they had to get on the road to deliver more cookies.   What a lovely way to spend an afternoon.   We had such a great visit and Elizabeth is charming.   

I am going to start watching the Oscars in the living room as I work on the Black Pig.   Nicky will like that.

So until tomorrow

Dia djiot