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.

I sang the last time at St. John's.   I also had the opportunity to be a minister of communion and share the host with the congregation.   I am so blessed.

The rest of the day was mildly busy.  I sorted and boxed. 

This evening, Jeff and Kathy and Tim, my buyer, came by and helped me take things out into the garage. for pickup.

Tomorrow will be special - a special day with Bobbie.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Again - I was OUT this evening.    I decided that since Rhine Plymouth started their winter league this evening, I would go out and shoot a couple of targets just to keep my hand in a bit.   Actually, I really wanted to be able to say good bye to as many of my friends out there as I could before I head south.   It was fun.   I saw and got hugs from lots of old friends.   I shot two targets and was not too bad (I was actually a bit disappointed)   Since I had not shot since last spring I had to manually eject each shell, (I obviously should have cleaned and oiled,) it was not too bad.   I got all the shots but one on the target and I know which one that was, so kudos for me.

The only other exciting thing that happened to day is that I got a check for $1.10 for the metal in the capped tooth that broke off.     I felt like the Tooth Fairy came.   When I was  kid, we only got a quarter so over four times as much is not a bad payoff.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Home most of the day.  

I did have my last choir practice this evening.   Saturday night, my last mass singing at St. John's.  
We had a great practice and Fr. Dan came in to think us for Christmas and bring his annual treat for us.    So we had a social in the church hall.

A lovely evening.   NOW, I AM ready for bed.

So is Nicky
Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got back from 52 Stafford.   I have decided to go there this week and next week to enjoy the craic.   I don't know whether I will have any such thing in Lawton and want to get my "fix" before I leave.    It was wonderful tonight there were at least 15 participants and I sang three songs.   My neighbor Edie went with me and drove too, so I did not have to worry.   Another neighbor, Pat, joined us and two of my Celtic friends, Kathy and Felicia.   It was an altogether delightful evening.

A lot of last events are happening the next two weeks.    Tomorrow will be my last choir practice.

Anyway.   We were there and back way before the projected bad weather.  

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Here I am again

Yesterday was a zoo.

My usual Monday (Bible Study) was made even busier with tons of errands, a chiropractor appointment and culminated with a 5PM meeting at Mead (I got to smile at the plaque for my sweetheart in the adult  reading room) for a re-photo shoot for the Intersections - Art/Poetry at the SVA center in Sheboygan.   I missed the big shoot and the photographer volunteered to meet with the four who were not able to attend and "Meld " us into the photo.   I am blown away at the technology.  I will be gone for this year's Artists and Poets "adventure" event, but am blessed to be still a part of it as I was able to be part of the inception.   All of my Sheboygan friends please go.   Look for the exposure in March.  I will get the dates off to you also.

Today was also busy.   I picked up Nicky's vet information, went grocery shopping, such as it was in the morning.   I have been on the phone most of the afternoon EEEEEWWWWWW.   I feel that I am working again.   But I do believe that I have most of the financial glitches headed off at the pass.

I am home mostly for the next three days so I can continue with my weeding out and packing of things.

Please keep me in your prayers.   The future is coming at me pretty fast.

I will be spending Sunday with Bobbie for a special day and gathering.

dia Dhuit
Mary

Well.   I figure I have two weeks to get everything sorted and packed.   R & R is coming on the 21st but I will have enough to do that last week without packing.

It was a nice day.    Kind of cold and we had snow flurries off and on.   But there was no real accumulation, so it was just pretty.

Some of my neighbors, Pat, Alison, Kay and I met at the Roadside Wilderness restaurant for brunch and Bloody Marys as I had told you yesterday.    It was a great gathering time.   We shared and ate and laughed and mourned a bit.  What more can friends do?  I will miss them.  Aren't we blessed these days with email and no cost long distance and skype and facebook?     I can keep in touch with these great friends as I develop a life in Lawton.   AND I don't have to lose them.

Tomorrow will be very busy, then I have a couple of days to pack and sort again.   That seems to be working for me.

Talked to my brother George today.   He is such a great brother.  as they all are.   I am so blessed.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I have been packing.   And packing.   And getting rid of things.

I swear, things procreate in houses.   The more I clean out, the more there is.

We had that really bad snow storm and it has remained cold so the snow is not diminishing.   Nicky is really struggling.  His little short legs do not do well in snow that deep.

I went to mass on New Year's Eve with my neighbor, Jean.   This is the time of year when one has holy days strung in there.   I only have two more weeks of attending St. John's.  That will be quite a change, I have been here for 9 years.   Only two more weeks of Bible Study too.  Wow.    Next Saturday night the choir is singing.   That will be my last time with the choir too.   Lots of last things.

Tomorrow, I will be going to the Roadside at 11ish to meet some neighbors.   Alison, Kay, Pat and I will be celebrating our friendship with Bloody Mary's and lunch.   They inform me that the Bloody Mary's there are great.   

Until tomorrow

Did Dhuit

Mary

I got a lot done today, though anybody looking would not see it.

Nicky has settled down a bit from the shock of the storm.   He is pretty much back on his bathroom schedule.   I felt so sorry for him yesterday.   His poor bladder and insides must have been stretched to the limit

Today I went to the bank and closed my  safe deposit box and kind of said good bye to my Wells Fargo friends though I will see them several times before I leave.

A lot done and I am in communication with my Oklahoma home purchase and insurance people.

God be with me - (and you all too)
\
Dia dhuit

Mary

At home all day.    Even if I had wanted to go somewhere, we had the storm of the year and it was after 3PM before I could have gotten out of the garage anyway.   Maybe a bit earlier, but with the wet deep snow, it took a long time to get us all plowed out.

It was very distressing for our Nicky.   He took one look at the snow this morning and headed right back into the house.   He managed to hold himself until after noon when the guys got to the driveway and he could walk around a bit.   He really has not felt too well today anyway or maybe because of the problem.    Poor little guy.

I got a lot done as far as organizing and some packing.   Tomorrow and New Year's day will also be good for that.

I only have about three weeks so need to hurry things up things a bit.  

Everybody in Oklahoma and Texas are OK.   I called them yesterday.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a lovely Christmas Day.

I went to church at 8:30AM and sang with the choir in the 9:30AM mass.    It was great.  We sang our hearts out and even got a round of applause at the end of the service.

Then I spent the rest of the morning preparing for the Christmas Dinner.   Richard and Brenda and Bobbie and Bill arrived at around 3PM.  I had put out fruit and dip, chips and dip and olives for snacks

We had decided to eat at 5:35PM:) :)   So that gave us time to visit and share a glass of wine or two and to unwrap presents.  Then we sat down to eat.   We had Mexican Chicken and Mexican Mushroom casseroles, roasted squash, refried beans and seven layer salad.  We had assorted cookies, candies and sweets for our dessert with coffee.

An altogether glorious day.   We got to skype with Leslie and Bill and Sara, John and Matthew were there so we had a fine visit.

I can't thank my children enough for the presents.  They were just perfect and made me feel loved which is the most important part of presents anyway.   I hope I was able to convey my love also.

Bless all of you.   I love you so much.

Dia dhuit

Marymom

P. S.  Nicky is exhausted.

A whole day at home.

Nicky and I really enjoyed it.  I spent the day getting caught up on my finances and making sure that things are ready for the closing in Oklahoma.  I need one more document to finish things off (Barring unusual circumstances.)

I tas a foggy warm day with occasional rain.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another busy day.  But tomorrow and the next day, I should be able to remain at home and get things ready for dinner with my kids.

Shanna came and cleaned the house this morning.  Then I went to Klips and Tips to get my hair cut.  I was beginning to feel like a cockar  spaniel.   I think I lost ten pounds.  It amazing how heavy one can feel.

Teri, my hairdresser, (I will miss her so) gave me the cutest hamster, Irish Christmas ornament.

I broke a tooth a week ago.  As it didn't hurt and was obviously a cap, I ignored it til I got back from Oklahoma.   Dr. Joseph says it should have a root canal and be caped but as this would take too long for him to monitor before I move.   Since it doesn't hurt, I can wait until I get relocated.  Don't I have the best caregivers?

I have the appraisal on the home which looks fine.  There are a couple items that need to be done, but I have Joe to take care of them.   I have gathered the last information that the Mortgage Banker needs and will get it off tomorrow.  So we should be ready for the Jan 25 closing.

Still SO much to do.

Love you All

Dia dhuit
Mary

Monday.

A busy Monday as usual.  Went to Bible Study at 9:30AM.  There were 8 of us there.  Please pray for our Ione, who had a surgery a couple of weeks ago and is having a few problems.   She sent candy with her daughter in law for all of us.   What a gal.    We are finally to the story of the Samaritan Woman at Jacob's Well.    We have a lot to say about that, we found out.   We like that lady.   She is gutsy.

I went from there to grocery shop.   I have everything I need for our Christmas Dinner now.    Tomorrow will be busy also but Wednesday and Thursday will be good prep day.    I am looking forward to fixing dinner for more that me again.

I had a chiropractor appointment today.   Not too bad.  I did feel better in Oklahoma.   I think that the dry climate will help when I move there.

This afternoon at 4PM, my neighbors, Dave and Norma, had a party at their house for those that have been gathering during the summer in my honor to say good bye.   They will be leaving tomorrow and will be gone until spring, so I probably will not see them again.  Aren't we blessed to have computers to keep in touch with each other?   As past secretary of the TallGrass Association, I have all their emails so can do that.  It was SUCH a great evening.

Tomorrow is quieter but I will be seeing my dentist, getting a hair cut .   My housecleaner is coming in the morning too.


So I will have a clean house to entertain in:)

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A lovely day.    There was no wind.  It was a bit cloudy most of the day but quite comfortable with a winter jacket.

I was home all day.

I baked Mom's Christmas Stollen today.   It looks pitiful but tastes very good.  I don't know HOW she always got it looking so pretty.

Nicky and I went for several walks today.  

I talked to Bret.   He is doing well and will be with Janet on Christmas.

Tomorrow will be busy with Bible Study and a chiropractor appointment.   I have noticed that my neck was not nearly so sore in Oklahoma.

dia Dhuit

Mary

Hi You all I am not exactly southern but will be moving to Oklahoma which is close. I got back close to 1AM on Friday morning. An exhausted person. I got up at my normal 7Am so that I could get up in time to mail my Christmas packages and pic up my Nicky. I missed my Nicky. He is always so glad to see me. I have been so grateful for Chris Kuitert, who has been my pet sitter for over 20 years, beginning with our Zero (the wonder dog). So, Friday, I sent out my Christmas packages, and picked up my Nicky. He was walking with Chris when I got there. She couldn't distract him from a particularly attractive bush, but when he saw me, he dragged her back. They are so good to him. Don't know exactly what I will do in Oklahoma. Bart and Barb will watch him, as I will watch their critters, but if we go together, it could be a problem. Sufficient unto the day.

What a busy day.   I was home for most of it, but caught up on my finances and email.   I went to Mass at the 4PM mass.  The choir was singing.   I found out that the party for the choir will be in spring.  I will not be here, but that is OK.  I have enjoyed their company and combined worship.   Perhaps I may join the choir down in Lawton.  Again.  Sufficient unto the day.\

I had a lovely party on Friday night with the mortgage bankers that I worked with all those years ago.  It was such a pleasure to meet the children that Betty and Dewey had about the time I retired now,  teenagers and just delightful.  To be with Kay and Betty and Jan and Evelyn again after all these years and to be able to say good bye but not good  bye in this world of computers.  I hope they all come to visti.

I will be spending this week getting ready for Christmas and then plunge into the logistics of moving to my new home which will be available after I sign the documents.  How nice that I have "a home to go to."

Dua Dhuit 

Mary

The last two days have been wild.

Yesterday morning,Jeff and Kathy and Tim, the guy who is buying the condo came and removed the ramp from the garage.     Jeff hauled away all the loose wood and the wood that was in the ramp itself.  I got to feed People!!!!!    I had chili with cheese and crackers and then buckeyes and Lizzies for dessert.   It was such fun.

After they left, I got to prepare venison liver, bacon and onions for Bobbie and me and still had plenty of chili left for Bill.   Bobbie and I enjoyed wine and bubbly and an absolutely wonderful visit.   I am going to miss those visits.

Today was the annual budget meeting for the Condos.  I acted as secretary as Bredt, the new secretary is out of town.   Always an interesting meeting.  

Then at 4PM I went over to Pat Cook' s condo and she and I and Kay and Alison enjoyed an evening of heavy hors d veours, wine and conversation.   Will miss them all too.

I got the packing about done for tomorrow.    I will go to the 9:30 AM Mass, then take Mr. Nicky to his sitter and be back to finalize my packing and neatening of the house before I get picked up go to the airport.   They are picking me up at 2:30PM   The flight leaves at 6:15PM so I need to bring something to read for sure.

You won't hear from me tomorrow, but I will check in during the week.

Wish me the best in my hunt for a home.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a fairly warm day but this afternoon the wind came up and blew like crazy.    We had a little rain when this evening when I went to choir practice.

Practice went well.   We have lots of lovely music for Christmas.   There are two things that I must review on my own, because I won't be at the last practice next week because I will be in Lawton house hunting.

The rest of the day was pretty full.   Shanna came to clean the house this morning.   I had coffee and toast with my friends the Hoftiezers at Hub City downtown.   Lynn, Jena and Hope were all in the Plymouth writers club that just disbanded.    They wanted to wish me good travel.   Very nice family.  Lynn is a marvelous poet.

I did a bit more packing and sorting in the house also.  And I am almost ready for the trip.   Tomorrow, Jeff and Kathy are coming and we will be removing the ramp from the garage.    I want to get the van out before they get here and some of the stuff out of the way so Jeff has a clear shot at working.

Time for bed now.    Til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Today was very full.

Nicky had his veterinarian appointment today.   He needed booster shots, his nails cut and a blood test.   I also had them check to be sure that the information on his chip was mine.    I told you that several months ago, I got a call in the evening from someone saying they had good news, they had found my dog.  ( It was funny because when I said my dog was there, he asked if I was sure.)   Anyway, now I have the information so that when I move, I can change Nicky's address and phone number for the chip.

I had lunch with a couple of friends at the Exchange Bank, then went grocery shopping.   I have all the Christmas boxes ready to mail and all the Nativities up.   That is all I am doing this year.

I do have the mini tree up too.

Today is the feast of the Immaculate Conception, so I went to Mass.   I was a communion distributor, which I always love to do.  

So tomorrow I get to be home ALL day.   Yippee

Dia Dhuit

Mary   

I guess I got too tired and busy the past couple of days.  

Partly the season.

Partly the impending move.

Friday was the 10th annual Celtic Tea:

The Tea began at at 1PM the Plymouth History Museum. We, Celtic Women, brought tea and Christmas Goodies to share - cookies, fruit breads, truffles, and of course Irish Brown Bread. And there was the music, provided by a group called Banish Misfortune, who often play at 52 Stafford. Banish Misfortune. What would an Irish celebration be without the music. They regaled us with music and stories for the two hours of the event. This has been my first Christmas event of the year for 10 years. We open this to the public and had a lot of our friends come to enjoy the music and the goodies. Thanks, LuAnn for the super job you did getting this together.

I am proud to have been a part of starting this event and have left it in good hands so that it will continue.

Today was a usual Monday.   A stimulating Bible Study.   Soon I will have to leave this circle of prayer friends.  This is hard but will be OK.  Then I went to Gibbsville to finish my Christmas Shopping.

Home again, I finished several projects.  Tomorrow Mr Nicky sees the veterinarian.   Just a checkup but his last before Oklahoma.

so Many lasts.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I was home all day.  What a relief.   I baked cranberry bread today.   Just seemed like a shame to go through the holiday without some.   I also spent a good chunk of the day wrapping presents and getting boxes ready to send.    I also sorted the candy that I will be sending to the family.    Buckeyes and fudge.    Got to get that all sent before I go to Oklahoma to find my home.

Tonight Kate and I met at the Plymouth Arts Center for the opening of the Members Christmas show.   Last year, I put a fabric piece in ,  this year I just didn't get around to it.    My friend, Mark Montaba, got the merit award this year.

So time for bed.  Tomorrow is the Celtic Christmas Tea at the Plymouth History Museum.   This is our tenth year.   I have to bake Irish Brown Bread in the morning.  Must be fresh you know.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, I had a whole day at home today.

Mr. Nicky did not let me sleep late, but he did not get me up early either.

I spent the day on wrapping Christmas presents and cleaning .   I also made a famous Kunert Spinach Egg and Cheese casserole.   I made it in two casseroles and gave half to my neighbors Bob and Peggy.   Peggy just got home yesterday from rehab for her double knee replacement.

I talked to my sister Nora and my granddaughter Sara tonight so I am not lonely.   Isn't that nice?

Dia dhuit

Mary

Today was a nice day.  It rained during the night but was dry most of the day.

I baked some gluten free cookies to take to the Kettle Country Quilters.    (I had all the ingredients for them and they are REALLY good.)  Helen and Lucy, two of my friends from the club suggested that I come for the Christmas Party.   I haven't been there in such a LONG time but so many of my friends are there and it seemed like a good way to see them again and to say goodbye.   Had a great meal and a wonderful party. 

I brought home a real Yule Log as a door prize.   Now I need to find a fireplace to burn it in.

I did some grocery shopping and went to the post office for stamps and for boxes to mail stuff in while I was out.

I don't have to go anywhere tomorrow.   Yippee.   I am not even going shower.  Tee Hee.

Talked to my niece Suzi tonight.  Sure good to hear her voice.  She is a pleasure.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well,  It has been a while.   Has anybody missed me.    

Thanksgiving was just wonderful.     Richard and Brenda came and picked me and Nicky up about 3:30PM to go to Bobbie and Bill's for a really scrumptious meal.  Turkey, squash casserole, green bean almondine  and on and on and on  - finished off with hickory nut and pumpkin pie for dessert.  Nicky did well but left doggy hair on Bobbie's rug.   Tsk Tsk.   It was a great day despite the fact that we watched the Packers lose so stupidly.   It was nice to see Farve's number retired though and to see Bart Starr, still hanging in there.

Richard and Brenda stayed the night with me, as usual.   We had breakfast and more of a visit in the morning.  They left when they figured there was little danger of icy roads any longer.   After they left, I drove to Jeff's place in Hilbert and helped finish butchering the deer that was harvested in their party.   I donated my meat slicer to the crew as for the past several years, the only time I use it is for the deer anyway.   I also gave them the electric knife which I never use.  So I have some venison steaks and also some liver which Bobbie and I will share soon.

Friday night I went to meet some friends at 52 Stafford to listen to Blarney and have a drink or two.   It was fun.  

Today, Bobbie and Bill took me to Memories to see the dinner theater presentation of an L. M. Montgomery Christmas.  Always a good meal and a nice feel good Christmas play to start the season off.

The other big news is that I have sold the condo.   I am selling it on a lease option which I considered long and hard, but it will work for me, so I decided to go for it.    I will be in Oklahoma from the 13th to the 19th, hopefully to buy a home.   I have several to look at that I have explored on Zillow.  I will have to be out of here by January 23rd.   A lot to do and little time.

So that should catch us up -   I'll try to be more consistant.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It is still cold, but the snow is behind us for the foreseeable future anyway.

I baked some more today.   Promised cookies to the Plymouth Historical Society for their cookie sale that they have right after Thanksgiving.   I made Lizzies and Scottish shortbread.

Then at 3PM, I drove down to the Cozy Bar on Mill St. in Plymouth.   Alison's mom, Barb had won a Pack Party and was hosting it there.    It was fun.   I have not watched a whole game since Dick is not here.   It has just not been as much fun.   This was a blast so maybe I will be ready to watch the whole game again.   They won handily after the past three weeks of terrible losses which made it worth it, even without the wonderful company.

Alison also called to tell me that the guy that has looked at the house twice is still interested but has some difficulties that he is trying to over come.    Another couple are coming to see it a second time tomorrow afternoon.   Not bad.   I thought with Thanksgiving we would be dead in the water for a couple of weeks at least.

So until tomorrow

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Yesterday, when I got to the end of it, I was just too tired to post.   Full of contentment because it was a glorious day.

Spent the morning with Bobbie.   We went through the Kohler Craft  Fair at the American Club.   It is always fund to do that.   Not alone, but Bobbie and I enjoy it.     We didn't buy much.  I got some Alpaca yarn and sox and that is about it.  But we always like it.   There seemed to be an over abundance of jewelry this year and we know that ponchos are back in style.   I can't even count how many of them I made during the 70s.    Too bad I didn't keep one or two:)

Then I went to see Peggy.   The  swelling is down in her knees and she feels better.  So does Bob who is now in therapy after his heart trouble.  We had a good visit.

I met a friend, Sonya for coffee at 2PM.  We met at the Exchange Bank.   I bought coffee beans and enjoyed a cookie and coffee with a friend.  She gave me apples.

Today I cooked.   I made applesauce and Apple Crisp with the apples Sonya gave me.  I also made a batch of Lizzies (Cookies from a recipe from Mom) for the cookie sale at the Plymouth History Museum the day after Thanksgiving.

I will bake some more cookie tomorrow.

Tonight I went to Mass.  We had a guest priest who has been here before.   A Fr. Jockie.    He told us the following which I would like to share with you all.     He got it off of a Marquis at the Christ the King Lutheran Church in his community.   He said:   "God only has three answers.  1.  Yes   2.   Not right now and 3.   I have a better idea."

God never says no to us.

Wow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another windy day.   Still in the upper 40's and 50's but the temps are supposed to drop dramatically the next couple of days and we will get snow on Friday night and Saturday morning.   Just in time for the hunters.   Sure glad I stopped.   My poor old achy bones would not let me sit there all day.

Today I went to see Dr. Wiegand, my chiropractor.    I am somewhat better, but still have a way to go.   She is helping and I think that the MSM/Glucosomine is building up in my system is helping also.   I still ache but it has eased up.

Choir practice tonight.   Went very well.    Scott bribed us with cookies and juice.   We do have a hard road ahead as there are not too many weeks til Christmas and we have some really beautiful but somewhat difficult pieces to conquer.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was windy all day.   Still in the 50s but felt colder just because of the wind.   I kept busy today.    I wrote the newsletter for the Sheboygan CWI.   Wrote a couple of items for the Poets at Mead meeting tonight and tried to get my printer to work.

I also did editing on my Patron Saint book, then spent tons of time trying to find the book in Open Office.    I STILL haven't found it and am baffled.

Oh well, tomorrow is another day.

The meeting at Mead was really fun.   We had wonderful poems written and a young man, I think of High school age joined us.   He is very good and seemed to enjoy being with us.

Here is one of my little poems.

JAMISON

Irish coffee - hot and sweet
Beer with whiskey chaser
A shot - Neat
SMOOTH


Dia dhuit

Mary

Well.   This was a nice day.

Nicky and I went grocery shopping this morning.   He did not get to go into the store and was a bit miffed, but he loves rides and this time of year is perfect for taking him along.

I was busy all day getting the pumpkin cooked and pureed for the Thanksgiving Pumpkin pie.   We must, you know have this year's pumpkin for our pie.

So.  I had to roast pumpkin seeds too.

I practiced a bit for the St John's choir this afternoon too as Scott, our director, is really ambitious and some of our music is really  quite difficult.

Got some writing done too.  Not as much as I wanted to but each day I try and perhaps will  get back my "Muse" soon.

So.  Until tomorrow\

Dia dhuit

Mary

I liked today.

Nicky and  I went to our first walk under iffy skies.  It started to mist twice while we were walking and made me nervous.   Not Nicky.  But I did cut our walk shorter than normal.  Talked to a couple of other Tallgrass Residents as they left in the morning.  I find it interesting that Nicky is not barking at people in cars who stop to talk.   He must be feeling more secure.

Went to Bible Study in Falls next.  There were 7 of us today.  See how it fluctuates?   John is certainly interesting.  We were able to really relate the message to what is happening in our world today.   We may eventually get beyond John 3:)  Trust in Jesus is so important.   But I believe that Jesus is much nicer than we are as far as accepting EVERYBODY.

I went from there to Rocky Knoll to visit my friend Peggy who had the double knee transplant.   I found her in the middle of PT so cheered her on through that.   Then we visited until lunch time.    I told her to ask for anything that I can to for her.  As she and I know,  this is hard for strong women.   But I hope she will call if she needs anything.   Bob came in with a lunch that she may be able to eat.   (Her appetite is really down and her son, Rob, the chef, made her a salad.)  Bob is starting his therapy too.  They both need to get well to help each other.   It is not fair to get ill together!!!

The rest of the day has been quiet and after the weekend, I am SO glad.  Tomorrow, I will go shopping but aside from that am home all day.    I need to settle.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

The past two days have been extremely full.   I did not get home until almost midnight Saturday which is why you did not hear from me last night.

Yesterday, I baked scones in the morning.   I am out of white flour so I made wheat scones.   I found a super recipe for Cranberry orange wheat scones.   However, it called for wheat germ to go with the wheat flour.   I did not have wheat germ either.  So I looked up substitutions for wheat germ.   One of them was ground nuts, so I used some pecans that I had and ground them in the blender.   They turned out pretty good.    I took them to the 1:00PM meeting of the CWI Literary Exchange.    Everybody there said they loved them so I guess it is a keeper.

We were discussing the book Trinity by Uris.   A super book if you want to learn the background that lead up to the Irish Rising.  It starts back in 1885 or thereabouts and you see the journey through families on both the Irish and the British sides of the issue.

It started out with me and Joan Kramer and was looking pretty pitiful.  Then Debbie O'Grady and Felicia Roslund Reindl and Luann Cleary Beninghaus came in followed closely by Kathy Paul and Barb Fishbaugher and finally Sonya Prichard.   We all brought food too so it was quite a wonderful event.

After the meeting. Felicia, Luann and myself went to my house to feed Mr Nicky and head out for Milwauke to the Milwaukee ICHC (the IrishCenter) via some shopping that Luann wanted to do.   The Center was hosting a concert by Liz Carroll accompanied by Pat Broaders with Jimmy Keane as a special featured guest.    I would have even gone by myself.   It was so good to spend a few minutes with Jimmy.   We have been friends since that first Ireland trip.   He is an amazing musician as ar Kuz and Pat.   What a glorious evening.   So many Celtic friends who volunteer at the Center were there working and just being friends too.    I felt all warm and fuzzy.

Today started with the choir singing at the 9:30AM Mass.  Then at 3:00PM I left the house for Fleet Farm.    I picked up Jeff and Kathy there.  He was having something done on his truck and we were heading to Blessed Trinity in Falls for a Memorial service hosted by Wenig Funeral home for the families of people they had helped bury their loved ones in the past year.   As Mother was one of them, I wanted to be there and Jeff and Kathy were able to come also.     Wenig does a lovely service and follows it with refreshments afterwards.    They do this every year at different churches.  I believe this was the first time at Blessed Trinity.   It was lovely.  They always give an angel ornament to the families.    About a month ago, the ornament I got for Dick fell and broke.   So now I have one to represent both Dick and my Mom.    I have it in my office keeping an eye on me.

Now you know how busy I was.   Tomorrow I have Bible Study and intend to visit Peggy at Rocky Knoll.  The week is otherwise generally quiet.   And next weekend is quiet.   I am so glad.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Spotty rain all day and it was windy as all get out.   They say we could get a few flurries tomorrow morning.   Hope not, but I guess that is OK.   It is after all November and this weekend it is going to get up into the upper 50's so what do we have to complain about.

I was really busy today.   Can't tell you exactly why though.  Except for this story.

Nicky and I went out for his walk.    He was really perky and we went around the Lions Park Baseball fields off of Valley.  We can't go over the railroad tracks because of all the rocks and stuff so I have figured out a way that works.    HOWEVER,  Mr. Nicky was a literal stinker today.   He was sniffing the weeds along the top of the ridge when he suddenly make a really impressive "Poop Dive".   He was smeared from neck to hip.     So I got him home as quickly as I could and stuck him in the tub.    He was not too happy about that but does not really argue with me and is not the terror stricken creature that Zero was.  He did not get breakfast until he was clean either.   Had to wash is collar and leash too.   What a mess.  He also found a chicken bone in the yard this afternoon.   I took it away and tossed it down (wrong move).   Tonight he looked carefully until he found it again.   This time I carried it in to the trash.   What a funny little guy he is.

There was just a lot to do this morning anyway, part of it getting my football picks in.  I had several calls and emails to work on too.   Shanna came to clean the house.

I made a really good meat loaf for my dinner.   Will be eating that for a bit.  I will freeze part of it.

I drove over to Rocky Knoll after lunch to see my neighbor Peggy, who just got there this morning after her double knee replacement.   She is pretty medicated but has experienced a lot of pain from the surgery.    I will go back tomorrow to see if there is anything I can do.   Thought I would call her husband and see if he would like a meatloaf sandwich and cole slaw or a meal tomorrow too.

Choir practice tonight.   We are working on some of our Christmas music now.    New stuff.   One of them is really hard.  Timing wise anyway.  It is fun to be singing again.   And they are such fun people to sing with.

Til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Boy was this a great day.  

Not only was the weather STILL pleasant.   Sunshine and no wind.  (That is supposed to change over night and we may even have flurries by Friday morning.)  But good things happened all day.

I went on a baking frenzy again.  If anybody wants to come to eat, I have pie and will have fresh sour dough bread on Friday.  Come on down.

Today was a red letter day.   I had a hair cut appointment today.   That is always fun because I like Teri.   She does a great job for me and has become a very close friend.   Then I drove to Fleet Farm to pick up some raisins.     While I was there, as always, I checked for 22 shells.   There was a guy looking for the same thing.   We commiserated for a bit as we looked at the empty shelves, then we happened to look down to the bottom shelf and there were 6 - 100 round boxes of 22 Long Rifle 22 target load shells.  Wha La -   We couldn't believe it.  We read the description about 6 times then divided them and went on our way.      I feel like I discovered gold.

The Sheboygan Press, today, has an article written by my friend, Beth Dippel.   She runs the Sheboygan County Historical Research Center and does regular articles for the Press on Sheboygan County's History.  This week she wrote about the end of WWI.   Sheboygan Falls virtually shut down when the word came of the truce.   I remembered that Aunt Helen, who was born on May 20, 1905, and would have been 12 years old when the war ended  in October of 1918, told me that when the news came that the war was ended, all the people of Sheboygan Falls who were able, marched down the Lower Falls Road to Sheboygan en masse.   Beth has a picture of some of the crowd.  It was one of Helen's vivid memories and I am so glad that she shared it with me.

Wouldn't it have been lovely if that war HAD ended all Wars.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This was a productive day.    There was frost all over the grass when Nicky and I went out for his walk.   He woke me a bit early today, but really meant it.   There were swarms of geese flying over head.   Nicky never did figure out where the noise was coming from.

We had 11 people at our bible study this morning.   We are now on the third chapter of John.  We have such interesting discussions.    Great people.    We have been meeting over 12 years now.  

I picked up a shower curtain liner today.   The other day I looked a the curtain in the hall bathroom and remembered that I had cut a hunk out of the liner for Dick when he would sit on the bench that went over the side if the tub to take his shower.   Not a good thing.   I would have been embarrassed had I not caught it.

I am packing all the Crooksville China today.   Then I will just leave the crystal and glasses in the cabinet under the breakfast bar.   It will look nicer and more elegant.

Tomorrow night the choir at St. John's (Me too) will be singing at the memorial mass for all those in the parish who died this past year.   My cousin Greg is one and I called Mother in.   Lots of church events this week.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a great day.    The sun shone.  It was rather chilly but the sky was as blue as Mary's Mantle.

Bobbie and Bill picked me up at 11AM to go to Memories in Port Washington to see Murdered to Death, obviously a comedy.   It was funny, one slapstick after another.   You had to keep listening and watching so as not to miss anything.


Ralph Maffongelli, who ran the Sheboygan Theatre company for many many years, before retiring, directed the play.    Well done, Ralph.

The meal is always good and the dessert today was to die for.    It was supposedly Elvis' favorite dessert, peanut butter, banana, chocolate torte.    OMG!!!

We always enjoy these days and I am so happy that Bobbie and Bill like to take me along.

Another busy week ahead- probably will get busier as we get into the holidays;

The vision must be followed by the venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps - We must step up the stairs.
- Vance Havner











Dia Dhuit

Mary


   

It is chilly.   Don't know why we should expect anything more from November.   At least the sun was shining and the breeze was mild.

As I was gone all day yesterday, I did my wash today.  I mentioned that there was another showing of the condo yesterday.   They were done before Edie, Nicky and I got back from our drive.   The realtor called Alison this afternoon.   The people are trying to decide between this one and another.   The railroad is a consideration.   To back they didn't put it in a couple years ago.   Nobody would even be thinking about it.

I went to St. John's this morning to their annual Craft Fair.   Ran into lots of friends.   I got one of the items in the silent auction.    Really thought I would get outbid:)   It is a lot of items to sort and store photographs.    I will eventually use this when I go through those boxes of pictures.   Not here though.

After lunch, you will laugh, I went over to Edie's to clean all the dog hair out of her car.   SHE laughed.   She said I didn't have to but I couldn't see leaving her with that mess.    Nick is a shedder.   I don't like it but don't really mind either because he is my dog.   Edie likes him too.

I was a communion minister at mass tonight.   As you know, I always love doing that.

I was thinking of baking something today, but there was a bake sale at the Craft Fair also and I have a super coffee cake and fresh wheat buns.

Tomorrow Bobbie, Bill and I will be going to Memories to see Murdered to Death and eat.   A busy weekend.   How fun is this.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was chilly today, but sunny.

I rode up to Gills Rock at the northern part of Door county with my neighbor Edie.   She does some Christmas shopping up there and just wanted company.   Sounded like fun to me. and it was.   Edie is good company and she took me on a super scenic tour of Door County as she and her husband spent lots of time up there enjoyed it so.  She still has time shares that she enjoys.

She said that Nicky could come along.    It worked out fine and now I know that the trip to Oklahoma, whenever that may be, will not be a problem.   He is a good traveler.   Sleeps most of the time, is fine about walking when we stop.   I brought water for him but he doesn't drink much anyway.   I told Edie that when he got home he would be exhausted.   We both laughed as he slept so much, but I was right:)

A nice day.  Edie and I are good companions.

Someone came to see the house this afternoon.   Don't have a report yet.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A busy day.    Lots to do.

Tomorrow I am going to drive to Door County with my neighbor Edie.   I think she just wants company.   She picks up some jams and stuff for presents and her own use up there.   Sounds like a nice break.   Nicky is going with us.

Today I saw the chiropractor.  my neck does feel better.   I hope the impending rain doesn't get it all riled up again.

This evening we had a really fun choir practice.   We are starting Christmas music.   Scott is very good at picking out really good music too.  

Tomorrow there is a showing and a past looker is still considering.   I have a feeling I will be here through Christmas.  Darn.   Was hoping to get there before the cold hit.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Just got my computer back from getting just cleaned up.  It was moving so slow that I figured I had better do something.   No viruses but lot of clutter.

Now I have to catch up on Quicken and everything.

It was a generally good day.   Met my fellow high school graduates at Holiday, a restaurant that started out as a teen bar called the Patio.  It was a good time.   I have enough salad left for lunch tomorrow.  It is sure good to see everybody that can come.   There were 24 of us.   Some with spouses, some alone, like me.   We are a close group.   I will miss these lunches when I move.

I'll watch the CMA awards as I go to sleep tonight.   I am really tired.

Nicky is still trying to adjust to the time change.  He can't understand why I wait until what he considers 5:30PM to feed him. I figure that by the end of the week he will be ok.   Then we just have to go through it all again in spring in the reverse.

Well,  until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

This was one busy Monday.

I had Bible Study at 9:30AM.   There were 9 of us there.   We have started the 3rd chapter of John's Gospel now.   He and Nicodemus have just met.  We don't move too fast as we all try to bring the gospel into our lives and do.  

I went from there to Redeemer Lutheran Church in Sheboygan for my neighbor, Lois Kolberg's mother.    Several of the neighbor's were also there.   The service was lovely.   The last time I was in that church was when Julie Gross died, many, many years ago.   I did not drive out to the cemetery for the interment but waited with some of the other neighbors at the church and we had lunch with with family and friends.   It is nice to do that so the family is not just deserted after such an emotional time.    Lois's mom, Emma, was 94 and had a very full life.   She had been at Sunny Ridge for several years.

I saw Bob Hurrie, my friend today too.   He had wanted to come with Peggy to the funeral but decided that it was a bit much as he just got home yesterday after his heart attack.   He looks a bit frail but seems strong and is taking care of himself.   He is so blessed to have Peggy to help him.   She is such a nurturer.

So I just worked on the "books" and communications this afternoon.   Seemed like the morning and early afternoon were quite enough.

Tomorrow I am taking the computer to ExcelNet for a "tune up."   It is running a bit slow and Firefox keeps crashing.   Which is very annoying.

I will manage with the laptop.

A small unnamed Haiku.   I need to be writing more.  

 

I wake up gently

In the cocoon of my bed

And glide into day

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Wow.   A whole day without any appointments or responsibilities.

I did not even take a shower!!!

Got a lot done though.   I did not even have to really cook as I had the greatest leftovers.

Tomorrow will be busy.  One of my neighbor's lost her mother last Friday.   I will be going to the funeral tomorrow right after Bible Study.   Pray for her family.

Also pray for my friend and neighbor Bob, who had a heart attack on Friday.   He is home but Peggy and he need all the prayers they can get for his healing.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Saturday.    I went to Ceil Du Prey's Meal this morning.  I baked scones and corn bread to share.   It was well attended.  She does these free meals from the UCC on Bluff in Sheboygan and has been doing it for years.

This was breakfast and was SO good.  I met new friends and met some old friends that I had not seen in quite a long time.

The scones and cornbread were ALL gone.

Tonight I sang with the choir for the first time this year at Mass.   It felt good.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a bit warmer today but next week it is supposed to jump back up into the 60s.

I kept busy today.   Friday I always catch up on the wash.   So that is all done.

Tomorrow I am going into Sheboygan For Ceil's Meals.   My frien Ceil Du Prey puts on these free meals at churches periodically.  I have been unable to attend for one reason or another but this Saturday I AM free so told her I sould come.   I am bringing scones and clotted cream and corn bread to share.

The cornbread is a new recipe it is quite simple:

1 cup flour
1 cup corn meal
1 T baking powder
1/4 cup melted butter
1 cup milk (any kind you have)
3 eggs
1/4 to 1/2 t. maple extract
1/3 cup brown sugar.

blend the dry ingredients.   Then mix the wet ingredients, including melted butter, and add to the dry.   Pour in a greased 8X8 pan and bake at 425 for 20 to 25 minutes.

I forgot to add the butter and realized just before putting it in the oven so added it then.  It came out fine and is really good.

The engine light came on in my car.  I took it in but we think it was just a loose gas cap.  If it happens again, I will go back.

Had lunch with the bank ladies.  There were only three of us.   Everybody had other things to do.

So I am trying to get Nicky to sleep a little longer each morning because tomorrow we turn the clocks back.


It is working, I think.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Well, a good day.   It was COLD outside though.

Shanna, my cleaning lady, came this morning so everything is spotless again.  After she left, I went to the Exchange Bank for coffee beans.   I only had enough for a half of my usual portion this morning.   So I picked up a pumpkin spice latte to have with lunch.   I had marinated a round steak in teriyaki sauce and made fried rice and steamed rutabaga to go with it for lunch.  I had rutabaga because I carved one out for a jack o lantern again - Just for me.   I am worth it.

I decided to go back to choir as the condo does not have an offer yet and I probably will be here for Christmas.   I like to be a part of that.  It is fun ti be singing and I need a night out now and then.

I packed up all my cds and have a box that I really don't want to take with me if there are any takers.

Dia DHuit

Mary

We MAY get some flurries tonight.   Not a welcome event and not for sure.   Nicky and I walked in a misty morning.   He was quite wet by the time we got home.    I rub him off with a nice towel when that happens.  He is tolerant.

I was busy all morning.   Can't tell you exactly what I did?   Went to Van Horn at 1PM and bought three new tires.   I had been told that the tires were very worn and decided to replace them before winter and before a long drive to Oklahoma.

I am watching a scary movie tonight and then will go to bed.

The nights are very long around here.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Whew.  What a day.   I got a lot done.

Am working on some things for Mom.   Hopefully this will settle everything.

I went to the grocery store this morning and when I got back, cleaned the garage as best I could without water.   Too many boxes stacked up against the wall. 

I wrote a news letter for the Sheboygan County Branch of CWI.   We had such a great Samhain dinner ant I told them about the upcoming events.  Want to see?   You have no choice.

Sunday, October 25th, 14 members of the Sheboygan Branch of CWI and their friends and significant others, met at the First Congregational UCC for our 5th (at least) annual Samhain Dinner.   Again, we entered into the dark season enjoying the many fruits of the harvest.   Soups to take your breath away, potato dishes, chicken and desserts to die for.
For those of you who don't know how important this feast is, here is a summary:  Samhain is the end of the harvest season, the beginning of the dark season.  The Night (our Halloween) was the time that the veil between here and the other world was the thinnest and ghouls and goblins roamed the world.   The dark season is actually a season to regroup, much as sleep is a time to replenish the soul.   This is the time of year to repair, to renew, to begin again.   The trouble with our world is that there is no time for just being.
So it was a wonderful evening.   I thank all who came,  for your company.  Please don't let this feast die if I am gone.   I will start another Samhain in Oklahoma.  OK!.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 14th at 1:00 PM. We are meeting at the First Congregational UCC at 1405 South Milwaukee (Hwy 67) in Plymouth. This CWI bi-annual Literary Exchange includes tea, members may bring a treat to pass, we learn about author Leon Uris and discuss his book: "Trinity".
Joan Kramer

Finally:  Our last event for 2015 will be our annual Collaborative Irish Christmas Tea, celebrated at the Plymouth Historical Society. 420 E. Mill St., Plymouth WI,  along with the Sheboygan County Historical Research Center, Sheboygan Falls, (thank you Beth Dippel) will be held on December 5th, Saturday, from 1PM to 3PM. 
Enjoy musical entertainment, Christmas Treats, traditional Irish Brown Bread, tea and coffee in addition to good conversation.  Bring your special holiday treats to share with all the guest that come to share this time with us.
Begin your Christmas season with joyful sounds of this program.

Hope I didn't bore you.   This is my life (part of it anyway.)   I have decided to go back to choir at St. John's.  Maybe I will be here for Christmas.  If not, I will be able to sing a couple of times at Mass anyway.

Tomorrow, someone from Milwaukee is coming to look at the condo.   Pray!!!

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a relatively busy day today.  

Last night on my way home, I saw the low air signal on my dashboard.   As I had been told that some of my tires are getting very low on tread and that it is recommended that I replace them, I called the dealer.   I stopped on my way to Bible Study and they filled the tires to what they should be and I ordered the tires and set an appointment for the installation.  With winter and a trip to Oklahoma, I might as well start off safe.

Bible study was really wonderful.   We were 9 strong and finally finished talking about the Wedding Feast at Cana and are now on to the time that Jesus chased all the vendors out of the temple.   That got us on to a discussion of how much donating and how much soliciting for even good causes should be done in the church proper.   And interesting dilemna.

Home again, I was tired, but I did get some things done (including a nap which I must have needed because I REALLY did sleep).   I got the newsletter out to my Celtic women too.

So we are supposed to be getting rain.    We are behind on rain, so I don't care.   It is hard to walk Mr. Nicky though.   Not for him.   He doesn't seem to care one way or another. 

Dia dhuit

Mary

Tonight was the Sheboygan County CWI annual Samhain  Harvest Dinner.   We met at Dorothy Rose's church.  The First Congregational UCC over on 67.   There were fourteen of us there and what a time we had sharing stories, eating super end of summer food and just "being with".

I was able to hand over much of the CWI branch and International things that I have been storing here to Joan and others.  Now if I could just get an offer on the condo.

Bless you all and pray for an offer.

Dia DHout

Mary


In order to discover new lands, one must be willing to lose sight of the shore for a very long time.
- Anonymous

A good Friday.

I baked some No Knead Bread today.  Boy was that good for my supper this evening.

Then I worked on sweeping out and organizing the garage so that it is easier to stack boxes in there and if my brothers have to take down the ramp, they will have room to move a round in there.

I had a "double date" for lunch today.   I met my friend Sonya at the Diary Queen just before noon.  She had an appointment in downtown Plymouth at about one and had to leave at 12:30PM.  This is when I meet my Bank Ladies so it seemed like a natural.   I had my meal with Sonya and my dessert with the ladies.    Sonya is so good to me.  She brought me apples and raspberries.

It was also good spending time with Betty, Marlene, Ceil and Barb again.   Lots to catch up on. 

Home again, I finished my garage work and have been kind of relaxing and catching up on finances and correspondence.

The person who came back to see the house, has now asked for the average cost of utilities.   I wish he would just get off the line and either give up or offer.    No other leads just now.    I just have to hang on.   As you all know me.   Once I get something in my head I am not patient.   So I hope something happens soon.   I just keep packing and cleaning.   Actually I am sick of having to keep everything all picked up and scrubbed.

Dia dhuit

Mary

It was a beautiful day today.   The sun was shining, no wind and a nice comfortable temperature.

I got a lot done too.   I went to see my chiropractor this afternoon.   I feel pretty good right about now.

This afternoon, I also went through the dvds that Dick and I had accumulated and picked out about half of them to take with me.   There are just too many and lots of them I know that I realistically will not look at.   Anybody want any old comics or old musicals,  I have them.  Otherwise, they will be donated to St. Vinnie's next week.

I had a slew of phone calls to make today too.  I am almost all caught up.

Friday is kind of busy.  Didn't start out that way. 

Until tomorrow

Dia dhuit

Mary

I did a lot of sorting today.     This morning, I took Great Grandpa Bowser's Wedding coat to Aunt Kathleen's house.     Christine, my cousin, Kathleen's daughter, is going to look it over and see if the Wisconsin Historical Society wants it - otherwise, we will check with the Fond du Lac, History center as that was where they settled, way back then.

Then I cleaned the garage windows.  The window cleaner must have missed them and (note this Jim) there were those ladybugs (beetles) trying to get in the garage.   They were on the sill and at the entrance to the garage door.    I cleaned then sprayed the entrances.  Hope I am on time.

I went through the VHS tapes today.   I am keeping some, but am donating a lot of them to St. Vinnie's.  I have so many DVD's too.  Will also sort through them.   Perhaps some of you would like some of them as they don't get old like the VHS do and most of us have the DVD players.   Not necessarily the VHS players.

Tonight I am going to the Poets at Mead meeting.   Might as well go as long as I am in the state.  I will be picking up Sy.   He is always glad to go and he cannot drive, as he can't see well enough.

So until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another beautiful day without the wind.   The leaves are mainly gone now.   Could not hang on in yesterday's wind.

Busy day.   I had an appointment with Dr. Sokhi, my tummy doctor.   I am still having some difficulties so am waiting for results from some tests he ordered.   As I say, I am in great shape for the shape I'm in.

Nicky and I had to leave the house just before 1PM as someone was coming to see the house.  We ran a bunch of errands..  I mailed presents for my new great grandson, Matthew.   We went grocery shopping and a couple other odd chores while we were out.   He seemed to enjoy the afternoon and it is good practice for our drive to Oklahoma some day in the future.

We got home after the potential buyers left.    Nicky always comes in the house after a viewing and barks and checks the house out for me.   What a guy.

Alison called and said that they are interested.   Only time will tell.

Please pray for an offer.   I am so tired.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

What a weird day.

Went to Bible Study first thing.   We were nine strong.   It is good discussing John's Gospel.    We are still on the 2nd Chapter and stuck on the Wedding Feast at Cana.

Home again, I straightened up the house, had lunch and then went over to the neighbor's house at one o'clock because there was supposed to be a showing.  Nobody showed after 35 minutes, so I called Alison.   She called the realtor that was supposed to be bringing the potential buyer.   He had forgotten?   So rescheduled for three PM.   What a wasted afternoon.     Turns out that the potential buyer is allergic to trees:)   More Weird.


It was a pleasant day, though very windy.    I think Nicky is starting to wonder what is going on around here.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Home

I had a whole day at home.   Apparently my neighbors did not have this luxury.  I want to share some scones that I baked and nobody is home.

The Packers won.  Yippee.  I seem to be holding my position in the fantasy football league. (Except for the survival league which I blew all by myself.)

Someone came back to see the house for the second time today and they stayed for quite a while.   That is encouraging, but no cigar.  The offer is what I need.  Someone will be viewing the condo tomorrow afternoon too.  We are getting interest.  We just lowered the price by $4000.   Hope that will reinvigorate the interest.

Until tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary