An Active Day Got a Lot Done

 I kept myself busy all day today.

Kerry came to clean at about 9:30AM.    I spent the time she was here working on the computer and sewing on the COVID19 quilt wall hanging that I am doing for the Quilt Guild.    I have one more square to do the MAIN theme than will spend time embellishing them to make them look good.    I hope it turns out like the picture in my head:)

It is still warm (thank God not into the 100s as it was a couple of weeks ago.)   With no air conditioning, I am trying to work with fans and by cooling things off during the night.   So far everything is tolerable.   I hope I hear from AllTech tomorrow to know how we are to proceed.

At 2:30PM I went back to Lawton Chrysler to find out why my  low tire light was still on.   Just my luck, they had trouble with some of THEIR equipment.    They told me it was ready and when I got in the car, the light was still on.   SO they took it back and worked for another half hour or more and finally discovered that they had a problem and it is all fixed not.    Whew.   But that was another two hours sitting at a car dealers.    They are very pleasant but REALLY.

So now I get to stay home until Thursday night when I go to Writer's Club.   Vita will be a happy girl..   She is not happy when I leave her.

Sure is something else when we have problems with fires in the west and water in the east.

   God bless us and protect us all.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I don't know if I shared this with you , but I guess it is worth repeating if I did.  I read it somewhere.

Education is important.

But opening the pubs is importenter.

Lots to do today

 Had a morning appointment with Dr. Toy.    He had quite a bit of adjusting to do.    Sure hope I sleep through til morning without that hip pain.

This afternoon, the guy from AllTech came to check the air conditioner.    It needs a new compressor.   He has to present this information plus the other things he found to American Shield to see what they will do and he will get back to me.    Sure glad the 90 and 100 degree weather is not with us but 80's get pretty warm too.     I keep windows open all night when it gets down to the 60s and use the ceiling fans all the time to keep the air, such as it is, moving.    It is tolerable and if it gets too bad, I know we can go over to Bart and Barb's.     I really would rather stay home.

Quilt guild tonight.    Lots of good Drag and Brag items.   I did bring my wall hanging of St. Piran.

Tomorrow will be busy too, but Wednesday I am home all day.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Yipee

I got to stay home all day today.    No air conditioning, but I had cooled things down during the night and managed to keep things reasonable with the ceiling fans.  Soon I will open things up as the temps go down and prepare for tomorrow.     American Shield has assigned All Tech to come tomorrow.  They will be here between 1:30PM and 3:30PM.    So I will be saved then.

 I kept busy today with sewing and cleaning and computer updates.  Called a friend this afternoon and we had a great visit.    Wish I could go north for a meeting with my Celtic Friends up there, but am so grateful for phones.

Tomorrow I see Dr. Toy for an adjustment.  Sure glad as my hips have been sore.

Quilt Guild tomorrow.  I think I will go.   They have social distancing and I have masks.

 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Oh NO

 My air conditioner has stopped working.     Thank God it is "Only" 89 degrees out there, not 110 degrees.

I called American Shield and they will have someone here on Monday.   I have turned on all the ceiling fans and will open the windows when the temps get down to 80 degrees.   It is supposed to get into the mid 60s overnight so I will close everything up again when the temps start to rise again tomorrow.   And PRAY  - because I will have to do it all over again tomorrow.

A good day.   I made a potato salad with one potato and celery, onion, pickle and mayo.  Boy is it good.   I am having some tonight with a burger.   Haven't had American Potato Salad for a while.   Usually, at fry outs, we have German Potato Salad, because Barb and Marleis make to SO good.    I really prefer American potato salad, but we always had German too because Grandma Bowser made it.   When she was gone, they asked me to make it so we would have both.    I didn't mind and as I said, don't dislike it.   It IS good.  I am really looking forward to dinner tonight.

Just got home from Mass.   A nice Mass.   It still seems odd to see so few people there, but I am not about to stay home out of fear.    We wear masks and are socially distanced so I figure it is OK.

Tomorrow I get to stay home ALL day.   Vita will be SO happy.

Dia Dhuit

I love you all.   When this pandemic is all over, I am going to collect hugs.

What a day

I kept myself busy this morning with chores around the house and walking Miss Vita.    Then at 2:30PM I had an appointment for my car to have its yearly checkup.   

I only have 32000 miles on it and it is 8 years old, so once a year is perfect, I thought so and my mechanic agrees.      It took forever as they found a couple of things unexpected that will keep my vehicle safe and maintained for the time being.   I think maintenance is the key with the few miles that I put on it.   Some things need to be done simply because it is not driven much.    Anyway, I am done with that until next year.

 Home again, I don't have to go anywhere until Mass tomorrow.     Vita is very happy about that.   She was very upset because her supper was late.     (Funny thing is that she usually doesn't finish her breakfast until noon.)

Have a good weekend

 

Dia Dhuit

Mary 

From my Catholic history

 

These days

The world has become

A place like some saints of old

Praying  in caves to honor God

Alone

(However, most of us are not praying:)

Just home from Writer's Club

Our usual four people were there and we all had something to read.    I loved their pieces and they were very complementary of my chapter on St. Piran, a patron saint of Cornwall.  I am getting closer and closer to finishing the initial editing and deciding where to send the inquiry to have the book published.

 The rest of the day, I kept quite busy, but it was rather quiet, except that I got a call from my friend, Maureen, from Chicago and we had a lovely catch up conversation.     I miss my mid western Celtic friends a lot.    Sure glad I have the group here and I am becoming closer to them all the time.

 Tomorrow, I am taking my car in for its annual service.     I only have 32,000 miles on it and it is 8 years old, would you believe.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

Just like a spider

Entraping all in its web

COVID19 devours

An extra day for the weekend

Actually, I can't tell the difference:)     As Dick would say when asked what he did now that he was retired, he would say.   " I am retired, that is what I do."    Extra days on the weekends are much like that to most retired people.    We don't have deadlines or (at least if we are wise) commitments.

It was a quiet day.   Warm but not as hot as we have had this summer and there was a breeze which did help.  Vita took me out SO many times.

I have a couple of quilting projects at a point where I will be anxious to get them done, this always helps my motivation.    I get laxidaisical these days if I don't give myself deadlines.

We are supposed to get a cool spell and rain by Wednesday.   I must say, I am not unhappy about that.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

Haiku

The green grass smiling

Under sky of blue so pure

Brings peace to our souls.

Another much too quiet week ahead

 Labor Day tomorrow.  Not much going on in my world and it will be quite warm.     A day that I would "hole up and gel" if it wasn't for my Vita who makes me at least take care of her and gets me out or the house for walks:)

Everything is still pretty green from the rain we Have been getting and as of Wednesday, a cold front will come through and probably bring us some more rain.    

I think I will cook a brat or two tomorrow just to feel like I am picniking.    

Hope all is well.   I am well and actually have a couple of projects that I can fall back on.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Time is always moving

Drags us along in its path.

We have no control.

But that doesn't mean we can't enjoy the ride.

Not quite as warm today.

Still pretty hot and humid.   By mid week we are supposed to have some REALLY cool temps, which I am looking forward to. 

I was home most of the day, but did to to Mass tonight.   A nice mass.   I saw several friends which helped my lonliness (you know what I mean with the sheltering in place.)  Life if pretty good.

Tomorrow will be warm again.     Vita doesn't care much.    She still likes her walks and I suppose that is good.   I always say I have a dog to walk me.

Dia Dhuit

A quote from an email from a friend

"Education is important, but opening the pubs is importanter."

53 Years Ago

  It is so hard to believe that it has been 53 years since my Bret was born.   I called him, as I always to and sang Happy Birthday to him.      He knows it is coming:  He is at his river home and says they are expecting temps of 119 Degrees.    WOW!

A quiet day here.   Hot but not as hot as we have had and I understand that the temps are really supposed to drop in the next week.    This Wisconsin girl is looking forward to that.    I don't want months of below zero temps but 100 above for weeks is just as bad.

I have an Aero  Garden which helps me grow lettuce and herbs in my dining room.    It was time to replenish.   I always try to plant the old startings in my front garden.   This time it was four lettuce plants.   I am starting more lettuce and some herbs in the Aero Garden.  It is fun to harvest my own lettuce for salads.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Be safe

As you traverse

This world of such unrest

Riots and anger are bad

Bring peace

\\

Still in the 90's

But by the end of next week, we might get as low as 70.    I am really looking forward to that.    The heat is always so muggy here, but we don't get rain often.    We are OK but west of us they are still in drought condition, despite the rain we had in the past week.

I was busy today, though I would be hard pressed to tell you exactly what I did.  

Writer's club was tonight, there were four of us and we all read.   I read my Saints chapter of St. Andrew.   Getting close to the end now.    I will have to start studying how to get published.    Jim found a site for me and I have a source on the internet for authors that I need to really investigate.

Tomorrow, will be home all day again.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

Blessings

I thank the Lord
For all he's given me

Each sunrise granting one more day

To BE

Busy Day

 I don't have many of these and I really liked it.  

Went grocery shopping, filled the tank in the car and a couple of other errands.

Bart came by for a visit this afternoon which is always a joy.    I love having voices in the house.    He and Barb are doing quite well.

This afternoon, I did a bit of sewing on a stitchery that I am working on and ran a quick errand that I forgot when I was out earlier.

Now - Vita is not happy when I leave under any circumstances, but that is life.   She also made me take her for 5 walks today.    I know I got her to "Walk Me" but REALLY!    Enough is enough.

At least the weather was pleasant.

We May get some more rain tonight.   Some areas around us are having flooding, but we are not at that point yet.

Have a lovely evening and tomorrow.

DIa Dhuit

Mary

Bless the day and night

Let them achieve their purpose

Of activity and rest!

Welcome Rain

 We are getting rain.    Our drought will be over when it is all through.    I am glad not to have to water the yards.

Vita, on the other hand, is very unhappy.    I guess we have not had days like this where it rains most of the day.     I had a heck of a time getting her out to do her business.    She wouldn't go out in the back, and I had to drag her in the front.     Finally, this evening it died down enough that I know she is OK til morning.    Tomorrow doesn't look too much different though.    Perhaps she will accept it(HA HA)   She is such a funny creature.

I was home all day and worked on some sewing projects.   One is almost done, a wall hanging of St, Piran, one of my Celtic patron saints.    The other a project that I am trying to do for Quilt Guild.    We will see.   I am getting better but still find that I don't have the oomph that I used to.

Having a hamburger for supper tonight .   Sounds good.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

As the days grow cooler

I  am grateful

The heat was heavy on my soul.

A fresh week presents itself:)

It is supposed to get cooler over the next week or two.    I even saw projections of highs in the 70's.    Wouldn't we be happy with that!

It was hot today, not as hot as some days but I have come to the understanding that when it is over  95, it is just plain hot and there are no ifs and buts about it.    The only difference is how long you can breath outside in the higher numbers.

It must be somewhat better because my Vita does not head right back for home as she does if it is TOO hot.   (Also if it is scary such as thunder or loud winds,)    The thunder storm we had the other night was terrible for her.     I could not comfort her.

Today was a good day.   I completed a Bible Study project that we had started several months ago.    We all contributed our own prayers that we composed.    The we printed them off, got journals and distributed them.     I spent today getting my journal in order.    At the back, I have all the prayers submitted by my prayer partners.     There are a couple of things to make me think and the front is intended for me to add my prayers and thoughts as the time passes and the need occurs.    What a great idea one of our members had. 

I also straightened out the area above my washing machine.   I don't know what is happening to me.   Maybe I am feeling Better!!!!!

Be well yourself and experience joy.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I like the following.

 

"Lord, I shall be very busy this day.  I may forget Thee but do not Thou forget me."

Sir Jacob Astley

Another HOT Day

 It was hot today.   Fortunately, except for walking my Vita, I did not have to be out in it.

I spent the day doing some cleaning.    I have organized my pantry and threw away several things that had really old expiration dates on them.  Do you do that too?  Buy something and then not use it and forget about it for YEARS?

I see a bird in my back yard.   I have squirrels too.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Dreaming is easy

When life is good and joyful

Otherwise, it is hard.

Home all day

Vita and I DID go for walks, but I don't consider it going out.

I caught up on ALL my wash and changed the sheets on both beds and watered the lawns.and my potted plants.    So I managed to keep myself busy.    I even swept the kitchen floor and scrubbed the kitchen counters.  ( They do get scuzzy, you know.   Even with just me here.)

Tomorrow will be almost as quiet though I will go to Mass in the evening.   

 Stay well and safe and keep  yourself busy.   The best thing in this day.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Haiku

I heard a bird trill

So I introduced myself

He was not impressed.

Just home from Writer's Club

 I was busy most of the day though I couldn't tell you what I did.

Tonight however, I went to Writer's Club which was a nice break and lots of fun.    Reading my work for suggestions and listening to my fellow writers gets me stimulated again.

Hope your day was good.

Glad these conventions will be over this evening.

Trying to learn stuff but it is difficult.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Vita, my nice dog

Walking me every day

She makes me healthy

Sunny and Warm

It is supposed to be sunnier and warmer over the weekend.    We are getting more humid also.   We may have a BIT of rain from the hurricane, but it does not look good and we sure could use it.

This morning our Bible Study met for the first time since February.    We cannot meet at church so our intrepid leader, Judy, opened up her house for us.    Someone brought donuts and she made a breakfast casserole and fruit salad.    We all caught up with each other and avoided hugging.   We spent a bit of time on the book we have read during this time called Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To by Anthony  DeStefano.     Really a super read.   We decided to meet next month, again at someone's house and I volunteered to bring scones.      This is such a great support group.    We all missed it.

This afternoon, I got my hair cut.    Poor Vita really felt neglected because I left her TWICE in ONE day.   Somehow, I don't feel sorry for the spoiled little creature.     And I have noone to blame but myself for her spoiled condition:)

Tomorrow Writer's Club in the evening..   Super.

Hope you are all well and taking care of yourselves.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

Rain will fall again

And bring life to to the dry earth

And joy to the world.

 

(I don't imagine they feel this way in the flood areas.)

 

Kept busy today

 Usual morning things and then I went grocery shopping.  Caught up on paper work, why does that never end.

It was really pleasant this morning so I let Vita take me for a few walks:)
 

I cleaned out part of a closet and did an inventory on what is in it.     I feel good about that.    Will try to finish the closet on Thursday.    Tomorrow I have appointments both morning and afternoon.

Hope your day was as satisfying.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

If today I try

To do more than I can do

Trying is enough

A brand new week

Not more optimistic that the previous weeks.   So saddened to hear of the Jacob Blake shooting in Kenosha.   Too close to where I grew up in my beautiful Wisconsin, full of people who seemed to trust each other and care for each other.

In the midst of this pandemic and the fires and the storms, we must pray and love each other and try to bring peace and help to those who are in need.  There really is no time to be hating and disliking each other.

A bit of a comment.    When I hear BLM, my first thought is always Bureau of Land Management.   50 years ago, my family spent a lot of time out in the wild open areas of California and Arizona and it was important for us to follow the rules and guidelines of the Bureau of Land Management.   I mention to Bart as to what he first thought of as BLM and he said the same.   He grew up with that designation.

I have a t shirt that I have been hesitant to wear but have in the past couple of days thinking that I am a wimp.    So I will start wearing it.     It says Unborn Lives Matter.    Some of you may not agree with me but I hope all of my friends would grant me the right to feel the way I do.

To less serious things.    Vita and I had three good walks today.    This afternoon got a bit too much.   (Even she agreed)   but we got our exercise.    I always say, I get a doggie to walk me.    They have all been good at it too.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Haiku

A breath of fresh thought

Striding through your mind with joy

Always true to YOU

A Pleasant Quiet Sunday

Vita and I were home all day except for our walks.    She seemed very happy with them and even spent some time out in the back yard soaking up the sun and at least once chasing a squirrel.

I worked on some writing, some quilt stuff and just kind of lazed around catching up on news and checking things on the internet.    I learned from Dick that if one needs to be amused.   Think of something and do research.   Wow are we lucky.     One used to have to go to libraries and other places that had lots of books and then search them all for whatever.    And nothing currant was in them.    The libraries and book holders are still important because they have in detail things that might not be permanent if it was not for them and one can lean back and read.  

I still love books though I have been not reading them as much since Dick got sick.    I must start again.   I read two books recently and LOVED it.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Went to Mass this evening

And it was good.    A lovely service and I saw several friends there.     In this time of coronavirus, it is to good to see people, especially those who have been important in our lives and we saw at special places.

The rest of the day was quiet.   I heard from Bart and found out how to get to my friend, Judy's house.    We are getting together for bible study.     Very carefully for those of you that are concerned.   It has been months and we are really a support, prayer group for each other.   Life will be good again.

I am certainly caught up with household, and business chores.    What else have I to do?

I even welcome miss Vita asking me to take her for a walk.    With the hear, sometimes she gets out and turns right around to come back in.    What a goof she is.    Am I EVER glad I have her.   I need something besides myself to take care of.

Stay well.   I pray for you all every night.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Nice Day

 It was very pleasant most of the day.    The high was 98 this afternoon, but I did not have to be out in it at that time.

Did some wash and cleaned up things from Writer's Club this morning.

This afternoon, I went to the Celtic Club.   Again there were 6 of us.    We were supposed to meet at a new restaurant called Sam's on Cache.    I even had reservations that I made a week ago.    Guess what?    Got there and there was a sign on the door saying "Closed Indefinitely"     Can you believe that.    This is the second time this has happened to us.

So we went down the street to the Red Lobster and had a grand time.    I shared a barm brack recipe with them and the information that the Irish generally do soda breads.    When it is cool enough, I will have them here and host a good old Cream Tea.

Can't believe the weekend is here already.   Not that it makes too much difference to me:)

 

Dia Dhuit

Mary 

Haiku

Do plants feel their thirst

I like to think that the water

Makes them feel better.

Just got home

 Just got home from Writer's Club.     There were the four of us there.   Nice during this pandemic, but we are trying to get more members.     There must be more writer's like us that like to bounce our work off of each other.     We do everything from poetry to novels to columns.    Such a deal.    Good stuff tonight.

The rest of the day was reasonably quiet.    Not TOO hot and still a bit less humidity.    Vita and I went for a couple of walks.   (I read that in Germany, they are trying to make it a law that if you own a dog you have to walk them twice a day for an hour. I assume the total time must be an hour.)    Vita gets about a half an hour and time to run around the back yard.    Today she treed a squirrel.   Boy was she happy.

Tomorrow I will be going to Celtic Club.    Sure will be glad to see my fellow Celts.  It has been a month.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

No more computer outages. Whew.

Not a bad day.   Temperatures were in the low 90s and the humidity was low.    Vita and I had a couple of really good walks.     She turned me back on the mid day one though.   She is no dummy.

 Dan and his wife came an mowed my lawn this morning.    I am watering everything this evening.   Trying to do that every other day as we are getting no rain at all.   The front lawn is looking better and the back yard, though really needing sod, as about 1/3 of it OK.

 My only out of house experience:) was an appointment at Miracle Ear to check my hearing aid.    I really need to start wearing it more.   She said that even at home, I should be wearing it.

Haiku

A dog is a friend

That never stops loving you

How blessed am I

 

Dia /dhuit

Mary

Well, Hello

Wasn't able to post yesterday.   A garbage truck entangled with a main line of my service provider, Fidelity and I was unable to connect until this morning.      I understand that some recipients, notably students trying virtual learning were still having problems.

I was sure glad that mine was restored.   I spend a portion of my day on email and do use the web for research.    I am much like Dick that way.    The computer was Wonderful for him his last years.    I remember that when Mother got curious about something, she would have me have Dick look it up for her.   He would and I would deliver the printed report.    Such a lovely memory.\

It is a bit and I mean bit, cooler here today.   The main relief is that the humidity is down.   Kerry came to clean today and I went shopping this afternoon.   So with my daily chores I kept myself amused quite well.

Tomorrow is turning our to be somewhat eventful.     I do like goals for the day.  Goes back to my working years.   I like to have SOME challenges.     I am thinking of a quilting project to commemorate COVID19 and am finishing a wall hanging of one of my Celtic Saints.

Trying to keep writing and editing my work too.    Not as enthusiastically as I should but I do it and am getting better all the time

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

HI

Today would have been Dick and my 34th anniversary.    Golly, I miss him but I can't think of him without a smile because he made me feel so good.   

Bobbie and Bill sent flowers that arrived yesterday.    Beautiful red roses.    Bobbie never forgets.   I love my step children.    Dick was my first blessing in that marriage, the kids were my second.

I was checking in on Bart and Barb's pets as they were in Dallas with Timothy, my grandson and his wife Amber and Augie, my great grandson.    They are home safe and sound and had a great time.

That helped keep me busy this weekend along with watering the grass and plants and cleaning my desk which is a daily chore.

A new week starts tomorrow.   A pretty quiet early part though I have Writer's Club on Thursday and Celtic Club on Friday.    Yea.   I get to see people.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Another Hot Day

 Hot again, but it is supposed to cool down for the next few days anyway and we may get some showers, which would be welcome.     I like showers rather than storms.    My Vita is terrified of thunder.  Rather odd as the target practice at Fort Sill does not bother her a bit.

I went to the 4:30PM mass today.   It sure is odd now.   Less people, and we have to sit 6 feet apart and wear masks, just like everywhere else.    It is odd for me too not to get the sacrament in both forms.    We only get the bread.    When I was young, that was the way it was too.

Jim is home now, his power is back on.   He said the dogs were good with it.    Vita looked around but did not seem concerned one way or another.   She has been really checking out the back yard though.

Til tomorrow

Did Dhuit

Mary

Haiku

A hot muggy day

As we stood at the crossroad

And greeted the storm

Another unreasonably hot day

Jim went home this noon and he let me know that his power is back on so he can get on with things.   You cannot live is a house without power and air conditioning.

 We get along so well, going back to the time that his Dad and I married and he and Bart and Dick and  I were a family.      So glad because it could have been so different.     I will miss the company and the puppies but we know we need our space.     We are always here if we need each other.    Are we EVER blessed.

 A weekend ahead.   I will go to mass tomorrow night.   A quiet day though I have some chores to do.

 

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Thursday ALREADY

Most of the day was quiet.    I wrote a couple of notes to some friends and cleaned a few things and visited with Jim.

 It was in the mid 100s so I walked my Vita as little as possible.    She is so silly about poohing in the back yard, but as Bart keeps telling me,   If she really has to go she will go.    I know that but I am such a softy.

Tonight was Writer's Club.   Debbie was able to come, so there were four of us and we took a bit longer than usual.    My reading was a bit longer than usual also.    But Boy is it worth it for the encouragement and attention we give each other.    We meet at the Hilton Express Inn.    I think I told you, that the second time we went there, I went to the bar to order a Bailey's and Coffee and the bartender asked me if I wanted my usual.     I have never had a usual before:)    He still knows.

 

Love you all

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A reasonably quiet day

I was home most of the day, still enjoying Jim's company and the pups, of course,  

 I did have to go to the store.   Horror of horrors, I almost forgot to buy my lottery ticket.    I do that every week to keep my sweetheart in my mind.   (As if I need to do that )   But it is fun for me and brings him close to me.

 Bart came by for a visit with me and his brother. 

An altogether lovely day.

 

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Indignant Doggie

Chides me for coming home late

I should know better.

Oops I forgot to post yesterday

 I t was  a busy day.     I saw Dr. Toy in the morning and had the carpet cleaned in the afternoon.

Sure nice to have a clean carpet.   

Jim and his pups are still here so I am not at all lonely.    They and Vita get along just fine.   They don't interact much but they tolorate each other and there is no fighting or jealosy. 

Today was very quiet.    I caught up on all my bills and correspondence and am fixing a good dinner.   Aside from that we are just enjoying each other's company as Jim will be going home soon.

 

Til tomorrow.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

 

Haiku

The wind is so strong

The clouds are being herded

To fast to rain

 

A WHOLE day at home

 It was nice to be home all day.   It was hotter than the hinges of Hades. as my Dad would have said but we are so blessed to have an air conditioned house that I will not complain.

Vita and I had some good walks anyway.     She is good at keeping me exercising.    As I say,   She thinks that doggies are supposed to do their poop on a walk with MAMA and then she picks it up and throws it in the trash.  We don't want to do that in our lovely backyards.   Heaven forbid.

She has trained me well.

It is so good to have Jim and his dogs here.  Someone to interact with.  He has been very helpful in fixing a few things that were not right too.    He is so easy to get along with.   As I said we are a family.

I slept really well last night but glad I am seeing Dr. Toy tomorrow as my hips have been sore most mornings.

Til tomorrow

Love

Mary

Saturday

 It is so nice to have somebody to talk to.   Jim and I get along so well.   We pretty much do what we want to do at any given minute.

The dogs all get along and we have not combined their routines any more than we have combined our routines.      That is what works.    We let each other know if something is different but we just go about our lives.  

I went to Mass tonight as I usually do on Saturday night.   It was a very good mass.  Fr. Seeten did the sermon and it really was good for me this week.    

We had a bit of a late supper but a good one.   Fish, baked beans and salad.   Sound good?

Sunday tomorrow, a quiet day.   I have to remember to water the lawn.

Dia Dhuit

• Mary
  

End of another week (Weekends don't count)

 This was a busy day.    Usual time up and my list looked pretty quiet.

I spent the morning making some appointments for next week, getting things organized.

Then right after lunch I took my Vita to Pet Smart for what I call Her Day of Beauty.    The washed her, clipped her, cut and sanded her nails and just checked her over.    I could not pick her up until almost 4PM.   They make sure that she is completely dry and that she is not having any unexpected problems from all the stuff.     They LOVE her there.    She cooperates and keeps looking at them with those big black eyes.   So trusting.

I also had my lawn cut this afternoon so had Dan and Han her from three until I picked up my Vita.

Had a few just housekeeping things to do too.  Like watering and folding clothes.    Now I am resting and enjoying my glass of wine as I have the sprinklers going in the back yard.

Tomorrow will be quiet.   It sure is nice to have Jim and his pups here.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Thursday Already

It was hot today and I guess getting hotter as we go on this week.

I had a doctor appointment with Dr. Aiku.      I am doing well and will not have to see her until November when I will get my flu shot.

Tonight I had Writer's Club.   There were just the three of us again, so I was home in less than two hours.   I like that especially this week, when my Jim and the pups are here.  The three of us are really enjoying each others writings.    All different.

Jim and I are having a great visit and Bart came over this afternoon so the guys have a chance to hang out too.    I am so glad they get along so well, but as they pointed out, when Dick and I were married the four of us became a family.      How blessed are we.

Til Tomorrow
Dia Dhuit

Mary

A couple of days

A couple of days that were not too eventful but very special.    It is so good to have Jim and the pups here with me.    The days have been pleasantly warm to hot with some rain which keeps the grass green.

We are just enjoying each other's company with Bart coming over to spend time with his brother.    They both need that and I am glad to kind of step out of the picture for part of the time Bart is here.   Guys need guy time.

Having someone in the house is a real treat for me and I have been cooking a bit more.    You will laugh, but tomorrow we are having Kraft Dinner with hot dogs in it.     A real KUNERT special.   The Kunerts love pasta and I remember.    Dick and I were dating and a Friday night came up and I said that I would invite him for dinner but we were just having Kraft Dinner and hot dogs.    His face lit up like a beacon and he said and I quote.  "That is my favorite dinner."        I thought = SURE.    But it was.  

Tomorrow I go to see my general practitioner doctor.    Wish me good health.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Haiku

A special blessing

Glorious in its beauty

The butterfly posed.

HI THERE

What a pleasant day.    It was in the upper 80's with low humidity.   Vita and I had three good walks.  

Jim is here for a few days to be with family.     We are sure enjoying him and the doggies, Paisley and Gracie.    They are good dogs and get along so well with Vita.

I did a bit of cleaning and shopping today.     Jim and Bart are spending this afternoon together and we are going to all enjoy a pizza tonight when they are done.

Altogether a wonderful day.

Love you all.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Haiku

Just before twilight

A lone crane stands in the field.

They say cranes bring luck.

Schlitzhagen

Today was warmer than they projected but with the difference being 88 degrees or 93 degrees, it is still hot.    Not quite as humid as it has been.

I made Schlitzhagen this morning.    Jim was possibly coming if he could get ready and I wanted a good meal.     Then I didn't hear from him til two o'clock.     Yea he is coming and will be here in time for dinner.    He HAD mentioned that there is really no need for him to come just for weekends as he, Bart and I don't work anymore and Barb works at home so is available all evenings and for lunch if we decide to do that.

So I am delighted to have company.    The "girls" will like the back yard.    They are very good at staring at the squirrels in the trees.    Are content for ages.

I watched our astronauts come back to us flawlessly this afternoon.     Are we blessed with such a wonderful event to bring pride and joy to us in this time of unrest and pandemic?

Dia dhuit

Mary

Haiku

A breezy sunny walk

Instills life into my soul

Invigorates me.

A quiet day

Supposedly it was cooler today.   I guess below 90 is cooler than above 90 and into the three digets.

I was home all day, except for Mass at 4:30PM.   It was a nice mass.    The attendees are decreasing each week.   I am just SO" glad that I can go and receive the sacrament.    You guys know how much that means to me.

I kept myself pretty busy today with several projects.   I even went out and weeded my sculpture garden.   Yes, I have a sculpture garden.     I don't really do well with regular gardens.

Vita had several walks today so I am staying in shape.     She really is a joy and I WOULD NOT walk if it wasn't for her.

Tomorrow another quiet day.    I will be home all day and am going to make Schlitzhagen    Yea.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

A weekend

Here it is Friday evening.   The beginning of another weekend.   Weekends, with the pandemic, are not much different that weekdays.     I do go to church with is comforting to me.    

I look forward to Saturday evening at 4:30PM for that.   We are all masked but we have our familiar Mass and I do receive the sacrament which means SO much to me.

It was a nice week.    Got good results from my Cancer team.    That is always a plus.    Dr. Toy put my bones back in shape.    I got together with my fellow writers and worked a bit on a quilting project.    Still MUCH too lazy but I am improving.

Sure glad I have Vita.   She does get me up and moving, you know.

Have a great weekend and stay well and safe.    I have plenty of masks.   Even when I go out with Vita., I don't necessarily put it on when we start, but I have one in my pocket so that If I start talking to someone, I can pull it out and put it on.

We have to get rid of this monster.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Writers Club Tonight

It was hot and muggy during the day, then there was a nice storm tonight WHILE we were at Writer's Club.

It was dry enough that Dan and Han could mow the lawn anyway.     With the rain, it probably would have been too high and that is hard for Dan.    Looks nice and really green now.    I have to try to get grass in the back yard.  It is pitiful.

Did some writing and sewing today and a bit of cleaning.    Then'

At 6:30PM  Writers Club.    There were only three of us there, Marti and Karlos and me.    We all read.   I love what they do.   They seem to like what I do.   We always try to give suggestions and for sure tell them if there is some thing that doesn't seem to mesh    We are all pretty good, though.   If I do say so myself.

Bart stopped by for a bit this afternoon.    I always enjoy that and so does Vita.    She was a pest today, wanting lots of walks and it was too hot.

Take care of you.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

Haiku

Hot, heavy, humid

The summer is oppressive

Draining energy

Hi on Wednesday

Was a busy day.      I decided to buy my birthday cards for the next two months.    Would you believe, I bought TEN.    It was fun picking them out, then being sure I got one for everybody and not one for some and two for some.    I am getting older, you know.

This afternoon, I worked on and completed a project that those, who wish to be ministers in the church need to fill out.   I thought it would take about an hour.     Ended up spending two and a half hours on it.    Whew.

So I am relaxing with my glass of wine and thought I would send a message to all of you.

Stay well, stay safe and I love you.

Hope it gets through, my blogger is acting weird and I don't know if yesterday's went through.   Guess what I will be doing tomorrow if I can't see that it is OK today.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I guess I had better title these Blogs. This IS today's title.

Today was a doctor day.   Very busy.

I saw Dr. Toy this morning and he put my back in place again.   He does not seem to be tired a adjusting me yet:)

This afternoon, I went to the Cancer Clinic.    My first appointment was with the lab to draw blood for the next appointment.

The next appointment was with Dr, Curry, my cancer doctor.    He says my tests and his exam show that I am doing just fine.    There is no sign of the cancer returning and he will see me in 6 months.   Hopefully at that time, we can remove the port.

The third appointment was the flushing of the port.    Hopefully just one more time for that,  Dr, Curry says that maybe they will be able to remove it after the next examination.    Hope so.   It is just an annoyance.

We are supposed to be getting some thunder storms tonight.  I will have a very unhappy Vita if we do.   She is terrified of thunder and lightening.    And nothing I do comforts her.

Praying for the end of this virus and for all those that I cherish.   (Know that you are one of them.)  Be safe.   We  will get through this.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I was home all day today.    Called a few people that I had not heard from or talked to in many years.   It was fun.   

Had a nice long talk with my sister Dolores.    My brother in law Kenny is happy.   He has gained two pounds.   We rejoiced together as I have gained some weight too.  Glad, but sad to have to share our gains to each other.   We both wish that the other did not have to be going through the problems.

A rather pleasant day.    Tomorrow I have doctor appointments both in the morning and the afternoon.   I feel pretty good so expect good things.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

It was a bit cooler today.    At least I could notice it.   Still to hot.    I don't know.    Moved to Oklahoma to avoid those cold cold winters.    Now I have hot hot summers:)

Went to mass this evening.   A nice mass.   I love it that I have been here long enough that I know people.    I have friends!!

Tomorrow is pretty quiet.  I may go over to Bart and Barb's in the afternoon, but am just working on several projects that I am enjoying but not getting really avid about.    That will change as I am getting better all the time.

Love you all
Stay well
Wear masks

Dia Dhuit
Mary

It was warmer again today but is supposed to be a bit cooler for the next three to four days.     Not  that it makes much difference when the "Low" is 93 or 94 with a heat index:)    As I say - Hot is Hot.

Again, I kept reasonably busy, though with just me and Vita this is not a lot.     She takes me for regular walks, so I am getting my exercise.

I fixed my dishwasher today and am very proud.    The screws that attach it to the cabinet had worked their way loose, so I had to get new screws that were just a smidge wider and just a smidge longer and I screwed them in and it its fine.     When someone who knows more than me comes I will have them check it.

Tomorrow, another quiet day, though I will go to Mass in the evening.   Which always makes me feel fulfilled.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

It was a bit cooler today and wouldn't you know that the first day I decide to give my front lawn a drink, as soon as I turned it off we had a thunderstorm?

The thunder scared my Vita all over again.    Just getting her over whatever it was that was scaring her a couple of days ago.     She sure is a scared e cat.      I love her anyway.     She is also a sweetie.

Went to Writer's Club tonight.    There were four of our five members there.    We all had something to read and get critiques on.    I got favorable comments on my poems and on the Summary of Ireland that will go in my saints book.

Did a bit of sewing on the wall hanging of St. Piran that I am designing too.     So it was not a dull day.

Hope you are all well and wearing masks and keeping social distancing so that you all stay safe and we beat this virus.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

It was cooler and less humid today.     Still not a temperature that I want to be out for a very long walk, but a welcome relief.

Miss Vita is still afraid of "outside" sometimes.    Then to top it off, I let her out in the back yard this afternoon and something "Boomed",    I don't know what it was, not fireworks, but she made a bee line for the house.     Well.    We will take one day at a time.    

I kept myself busy most of the day.     Worked a bit on quilting and writing.   

Also, I had some really great conversations with my  two Maureens:)    Maureen Garry and Maureen Smith today catching up on each other and on what is happening in CWI (Celtic Women International)  which brought us together in the first place.

Also had a lovely conversation with my friend, Pam from Holy Family Church.    We are going to different masses these days so don't see each other as often.     Probably with the pandemic, would not visit as much anyway.

Tomorrow I will shop and work more on my quilting and poetry.

Love you all

Dia Dhuit
Mary

They say it was cooler today and the thermometer did say the same thing but it was not enough to make us feel comfortable.   Thank the Lord for air conditioning.

I got a lot of book work and financial things settled today.   One would think that I should not have much of that anymore but things keep creeping up on me.     Oh well.   I need something to do during the day:)

Worked on some poetry and quilting projects.

Talked to a friend for some time.    She is getting our newsletter ready  for CWI and had asked me for some input.    I am glad to say that I was able to be of help to her.    I have been in her position before and needed input and didn't get it.     Love people who are part of a group who really care.

Another quiet day tomorrow.   Kerry will come to clean but the rest of the day is free.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Another quiet day at home.    Took Miss Vita for some walks.   I must remember to carry a mask with me as Lawton now has a mask rule which I approve of.

I did several CWI projects today.   Makes me feel good because I love the Celtic Women organization and the support we give each other.

Tomorrow will be another quiet day.     I am trying to put my writing on top ladder so I keep my incentive going.

Love you all
Please stay well and take care of yourselves and yours.

Dia dhuit
Mary

Haiku

Just like a spider
Entrapping all in its web
COVID19 devours.

I must be feeling better because I am being more active around here.    I went to the bank this morning because I have been low on cash and I don't like that.

Then I swept the kitchen and laundry room and even wiped off the washer and dryer.

I watered the plants outside and took Miss Vita for a couple of walks.   Tonight she is acting afraid of the outside again.    She did this on the 4th of July and I attributed it to the fireworks but there must be some smell or noise that scares her this evening because we started down the street and suddenly she started hunching up and headed for home.    Not fun for me because I can't run and she was
REALLY pulling.    Oh, well.   Should be OK tomorrow or even later tonight when she has to go potty bad enough.

Went to Mass this evening.   I think there were less people there.  The Archdiocese is requesting that all people who come wear masks and I think this is stopping some people, though they still will allow those with medical or really strong reasons to stay, if only in the chapel.   We still have the dispensation to watch mass on the TV.   I want my sacrament and wear my mask and distance and trust that God will protect me.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

I was busy today.    I did four loads of wash to begin with.    Then

At 2PM I drove to the Lawton Country Club to meet with my Lawton Celtic Club.   We have not gathered since February.     There were 7 of us there.    I was so pleased.    We all miss each other and it was good to share the last few months.    Then for our "program" I told them some interesting and facts about St. Bridget, one of the patron saints of Ireland.

It was fun.    I feel fulfilled.

Dia dhuit
Mary

P. S.  It was really hot today.


A poem to St. Bridget

I'd like to give a lake of beer to God.
I'd love the Hevenly
Host to be tippling there
For all eternity.

I'd love themen of Heaven to live with me.
To dance and sing.
If they wanted I'd put at their disposal
Vats of suffering.

Whit cups of love I'd give them,
With a heart and a half:
Sweet pitchers of mercy I'd offer
To every man.

I'd make Heaven a cheerful spot,
Because the happy heart is true.
I'd make the men contented for their own sake
I'd like  Jesus to love me too.

I'd like the people of heaven to gather
From all the parishes around,
I'd give a special welcome to the women,
The three Mary's of great renown.

I'd sit with the men, the women of God
There by the lake of beer
We'd be drinking good health forever
And every drop would be a prayer.

Another HOT day.    I will be going to Writer's Club this evening.    There are only five of us total and we, of course, wouldn't go if we felt we were sick.

I am bringing my chapter on St. Bridget of my patron saints of the Celtic nations book.

We don't take very long, so I will be home early.    We meet in a place that we can sit apart for good measure too.

Bless you all.   Let's all pray for an end to this pandemic.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Another hot day.    Guess I should stop mentioning that.   Perhaps I will ignore the weather until there is a COOL day.    By cool, I mean temperature, of course.

I had to get my lottery ticket this morning.    Guess what, last week was a "big" win for me.   I had the Powerball and the multiplication was TEN.    10 times 4.    WOW am I ever rich.   I won't have to pay for my weekly ticket for over a month.    Whoopee!!!

Bart was over this afternoon and brought me some stoganoff that he and Barb made.    Love it when I get surprises for meals.     I can't believe how blessed I am.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Cinquain

My dog.
My companion.
I would be so alone
Without her sweetness in the house
With me.

Hottest day yet.   And the humidity is just terrible. 

I WISH I could get Vita to do her business in the back yard.   She seems to have to walk though.   Well, I will wait tonight until things start to cool down anyway.

Was home all day.    Worked a bit on a quilt project.   At least I have it in my head.   It is one of my wall hangings and it has been somewhat of a struggle to get the picture of what I want.

I did some cleaning of closets too.   I am trying to figure out what to do with all this STUFF.  Too good to throw away but no place to put it:)?

Oh well, this pandemic is a good time to tackle it.
Dia Dhuit
Mary

A Haiku from Wisconsin

A chorus rang out
Cardinals in the tree tops
Celebrating life

Another hot one, but we are always tempered by the wind and it was cloudy most of the day which made it feel less hot.

I was home until this evening when I went to Quilt Guild.    It was the first one since April .   Missed the meetings a lot.    It helps me stay motivated.    We were all asked to wear masks and keep social distance.     Our quilt show, which was going to be in February, has been postponed til the next year, 2022.    None of us want to be trying to plan something like that in this climate and NOW is when we would have to be putting things in place.

A nice group there.   I got a fat quarter for a birthday present since we acknowledged April, May June and July birthdays.   I showed the President Challenge pieces that I had ready.    Now I am really motivated to finish my wall hanging of St. Petroc.      I also think I will do a VITA.    Wouldn't that be fun?

Tomorrow I should be able to stay home all day, unless I decide to go to get my lottery tickets.    Might, just to break up the day a bit.

Hope all is well with all of you.   

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Haiku

I try to pretend
That I am floating above
In a cool safe place.

Another in this string of HOT days.     This morning wasn't too bad so I cleaned in the garage and moved some things that got wet in cardboard boxes in the flood into plastic tubs.

Vita still will not do her business in the backyard.     I just came in from a final walk, which left me really sticky, and she did to her stuff so I can stay in now except for taking out the trash barrel.     With the garage cleaning I will probably have trash every time for a while.    Usually I only need to haul it out once a week if that.

Tomorrow I see Dr. Toy and try to be sure about the water in my garage, which appeared after the plumber came and then was TOTALLY gone this morning?

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Haiku
Sunshine lights the day
My love and I,  hand in hand
Walk again in memory.

A VERY hot day.   My thermometer showed 104.  With the heat index, I don't even want to think about it.   My Vita wants to do her big business on our walks but even she is not happy with the heat.   Bart tells me that if I wait long enough she will go.    I suppose so, but I am such a patsy to those I love, even critters.

My garage still has its stream of water.   At this point it is edging towards the street.   I have contacted everyone involved in its resolution but, of course, won't get results until Monday or Tuesday.

I guess I should not tell you my problems but as my boys say.   " I talk to everybody and I tell them everything."    And this IS a quote.

Hope you are all well and avoiding the worst of the heat.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Haiku    (Not very lyrical but true)

We are blessed
To have air conditioning
In our world today


Tee Hee

Busy couple of days.    I saw my arthritis doctor yesterday and am maintaining well enough that I don't have to see him for 6 months.   Yea.

The water was still seeping into my garage and laundry room, I had American Shield send Shields Plumbing come out again.     We think the problem is solved, will know tomorrow if the floor is dry or at least not flowing with water in the morning.     Then I have to figure out how to get everything dried out so I don't get mildew or mold between the walls.    Ich.    Will it never end.


We are heading into a really hot spell.   Is supposed to hit 107 tomorrow.   Today turned out quite OK because of the light rain we had at about noon.     A welcome rain but of course we wish it had been a bit more.  

Bart came over this afternoon to check things out for me and just to visit too.    I am always so glad to have someone in the house to talk to.     He is much like his step father and to think of it his bio-dad, as he often refers to him, an not TOO much of a talker, but he does like to share things and I am so blessed to have him here.   Of course, I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him.:)

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Cinquan

Each day
Is a blessing
Sunshine, or rain, or clouds
Safe with a home to shelter in
Content.

Today was as cool as it is going to be for the next week, at least.    And it was HOT and MUGGY.   Not looking forward to triple digits, they say 105.     OUCH.

I was quite busy today.     I had to go to the bank and the grocery store and to my wine store.    Then I wrote a newsletter for my Lawton Celtic Group because we are going to meet on July 17th after a four month hiatus.     Sure will be glad to see those that come.    We are going to a hotel and will work on social distancing and wearing masks.  But I am sick of just existing.

Tomorrow I have a doctor appointment with Dr. Simon, my arthritis specialist.    Then in the afternoon, Shields Plumbing will come to see why water is running down my garage.    EEEWWW

Til tomorrow
Dia Dhuit
Mary

What a day.     Kerry came to clean the house this morning and Dan and Han came to mow my lawn this afternoon.
Then at about 4PM American Shield sent an Air conditioning person to check my system as we thought that the air conditioner was leaking into the garage.    He told me that the drain from the house to the main is clogged and that I need a plumber.     The company offered to change the order to American Shield from Air to Plumbing.     So I let them.

I will cope with it tomorrow if I don't hear anything:)    Sufficient unto the day.

Today is the coolest day projected for a week.     Tomorrow is not too bad , then it is going to jump into the mid 100s.   Yikes.     So blessed to have an air conditioned home.

Dia Dhuit
Mary






Haiku

I dreamed of a world
Comfortably so in love
With just being with.

The weather men said that it was cooler today.    I couldn't tell.    I still got all sweaty when I took my Vita for her walks.    I still do my walks because I know it is good for me and for my Vita girl.

Bart came over to look at a problem I have this afternoon and then we visited so I was not home alone all day.

Tomorrow I have my house cleaner, my lawn mower and someone to look at my air conditioner all coming the same day.     Don't know how I got so lucky.

Dia dhuit
Mary

Haiku
From Wisconsin

Overhead I heard
The sound of the Sandhill cranes
Hauntingly lovely

The 4th of July was really nice for me.   Adam and Alexia  invited me to their home for a 4th of July celebration.   I decided to go hoping that they invited people that were likely to be SAFE,    I think they were.    Family and very close friends of Adam and Lexie.    We had hot dogs for our meal, starting at 7:30 and fireworks to die for until at least 9:30PM        What a wonderful way to celebrate our countries Independence Day.

I am feeling pretty good.   I am getting things done around the house.   Have my planters cleared and planted (there are even very small tomatoes on some of my tomato plants) and cleaning my garage which is a mess and has leaking from the air conditioner.   I even called American Shield to get the air conditioner checked.

My Vita was terrified of the fireworks.     Then I left her.   Am I  a bad MaMa or what?   When I got home last night she refused to go outside to go to the bathroom.    My neighbors were coming home at about the same time I did and were laughing their heads off as I tried to get her to walk.    She just dragged me back to the house.     So,  can you believe, that girl went almost 18 hours without urinating because she was afraid to go outside and "good girls don't potty in the house."

Finally I took her out at 8ish in the morning and literally dragged her halfway down the block and she finally realized that there was no more fireworks.    Poor baby.    Well she has a year before she has to do this again.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Haiku

Planting feeds the soul.
Being a part of creation
Is simple as that.

Another day safe from the ravages of the  COVID 19.    In other words I was home all day.    I did talk to one of my neighbors who wanted to use my driveway as he was getting a delivery.   I assured him I was not going anywhere today.

Finished cleaning my sunroom today.   I also did some reading and some wash.

So I kept myself from going totally stir crazy:)

Hope you are all safe and ready for the 4th.   I AM going with Bart and Barb over to my grandson, Adam's, house tomorrow evening for a late hot dog supper and I assume fireworks.    I WILL wear my mask.   The one Barbara gave me, Of Course.

Til tomorrow
Dia Dhuit
Mary

Haiku

Climb to tomorrow
Through a gentle peaceful sleep
Repairing despair.

Home all day.    It was stiffling hot.   Glad I could pace my outside stuff.

I did go out early and finished clearing my "flower bed" which is now going to be a sculpture bed.    I got all the junk out of it this morning and will just keep working at it every other day or so to see that I have gotten rid of the roots and such.

I also worked on cleaning my sunroom windows.   Only one more window left - then I will finish sweeping keeping things up.

It was SO hot and my Vita seems to think she has to go for a walk to do her business.    I know.    It is my fault.   I know, if I waited long enough she would HAVE to go in the back yard.    But I am a softy.   Probably the walking is good for me anyway.

Have a great evening

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Can't believe that it is July already.   I worked a bit in the yard early before the heat and humidity set in.

If I do that tomorrow, my beds will be in pretty good shape.

It got up to 96 today.   They say the humidity brings the feel heat as 108 and I believe it.

Tomorrow the same.
I am blessed that I can stay home in my air conditioned home.

Dia Dhuit
Mary


Haiku

Green is the color
That fills up the window screen
Joyfully lovely.

I went grocery shopping this morning  and got a lot of things done around the house.    It is so good to actually be eager to GET things done as I spent so much time after Chemo feeling like a slug.

I took Miss Vita for three walks.   After the last one which was short, I told her she would just have to go into the backyard:)    It is so hot and muggy.

Watered all my outdoor plants anyway.    My tomato plants have yellow flowers on them.   Wouldn't it be funny if at 80 years old, I finally got a decent crop of tomatoes?

Supposed to be hotter tomorrow.    I can stay home and cool.

Hope you can too if you are faced with this.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Haiku

A breath of fresh thought
Striding through the world with joy
Always true to you.

Another hot day, but the next two days are projected to be even hotter.    I will have to take my Vita for her long walk in the morning and short walk her the rest of the day.    I know, I know, she has a perfectly good backyard which she loves and explores and pees in but she does not like to do her serious business in it.     A good doggie goes for a walk with her Mama and poops.    Then Mama picks it up in a bag and throws it in the trash.     Nicky was that way and I don't know how, but I hage this little Vita doing the same thing.     I know it is my fault but such is life.

Kept myself busy today.    I saw Dr. Toy this morning and he says that I am doing well.    Still on a two week recall, but he is pleased with what is happening.   He calls me his Wild Irish Rose.

Got a call from Marti, one of my fellow writers.    Karlos, her husband and a fellow writer, is trying to find a spot for us to gather again.    There are only six of us, so it is at least feasible.   Hopefully we will start again next Thursday.     I need people even six feet apart and with masks on!!!!

Marti is now brave enough to go to church next Saturday.    That would prepare her for the Writer's Club.

I think we will be several years before this is all resolved, but we need to get on with life with protections and consideration for each other.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

I was home alone all day today.     Got a lot of things finished up, like gathering the garden waste into a trash bag for the trash tomorrow, watering ALL my plants and emailing my Celtic friends to kind of feel them out as to whether we should meet this month.    Told them they should think about it and I will contact them about a week before we usually meet.   I'm not even sure how I will feel at that time:)  But we don't want to lose touch.

Got calls from two of my classmates.   Classmates that go back to grade school.    Nancy and Barbara,  I sure enjoyed that.   Voices of special people in my house always makes me feel good and casts such light on the day.

This week is actually very quiet for me.    The only appointment I have is Dr. Toy on Monday to get my body adjusted:)  Can't believe that the 4th of July is Saturday..      The year is half over.

A cinquain

Blessings
I thank the Lord
For all he has given me
Each sunrise granting me one more day
To be.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

My "handyman" as he and I have decided to call him, Shawn came today and did several of the things that need to be done for maintenance.    He brought his son with him and his son worked so hard.     I told Shawn I hoped he was paying his son and he and the boy both assured me he was.

I went to mass tonight.    So glad to be able to do that now.   I still am amazed at the weeks we couldn't because of the virus.    Still have to be very careful.     Not all people are.    The church is carefully marked off for singles, couples and families and the ushers make sure people follow the rules.

I did a bit of shopping today so tomorrow I will be home all day.     Have a couple of easy projects to keep me occupied.    I don't like TOO much but do like to accomplish something every day.

I miss you all
Dia Dhuit
Mary

Had a dentist appointment for a cleaning this morning at 8:00AM.   Don't know what I was thinking:)   Actually we rescheduled and this was the first date available and I wasn't thinking.
Everything went well.   I don't have to go back until November.    My teeth are doing probably better than I am.   Ha   Ha

Stopped and picked up a Mc Donald's Bacon, Egg and Cheese Biscuit , which I really DO love for my breakfast.

Had a hair cut appointment for 1:00PM.   Kandi had to close for a couple of months but I am glad she was open.   I feel more groomed and had a visit with a real live person that I DO share some things with (something about hairdressers).   I feel great.

When I was on my way home. Bart called.   He was on the way over with soup that Barb made for my supper.     Am I blessed, or what.    Bart and I had a nice visit.      When he left, I took Vita out and then fed her so I just need dinner and a time to wind down.

Love days with people in them.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

                     Well, I kept myself busy most of the day.    I did a bit of work outside, I am trying to clear a bed that I let get overgrown.    Dan and Han, my gardeners came today and mowed the lawn.    Their doggy, Jose, that they had for 18 years passed away.    They have a new doggy now, a sweet black and white chiuhaua named Lucky.   I think he is lucky too.

I talked to Richard and Brenda this evening.   Was concerned because of the marches in Madison.    They are just fine, as I figured they would be but I needed to check in:)

Haiku

If today I try
To do more than I can do
Trying is enough

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Another reasonably quiet day.    Sure wish this pandemic would die down, but it keeps blooming in new areas every few days.

Oklahoma is not doing too badly, kind of under the middle of the really bad places.

I keep praying for all of us.   Watched a really great Irish presentation of music to support the black and brown people of our country.   www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjbAQ9Nz6TU&feature=youtu.be.    I am hoping that with this information we will be able to see it.  again.

Anyway, It is time for bed/

Haiku

Up in the safety
Of the elm trees in my yard
The squirrels tease the dogs.

Dia Dhuit
Mary 

Basically home all day.

My dear Vita dog took me for three nice walks today.     It is not TOO hot but I was a bit sweaty mid afternoon.    She was not too inclined to lead me further either.      We do love our walks.   By the time summer is over, we will be walking up to the park which will push me a bit further.   This is my exercise and the reason I say I get a dog:)   I remember that the gym teacher at Sheboygan Falls High School used to tell Mother that Mary and Nora try hard but they just are not very good at gym.   Perhaps Nora has changed?    I will have to ask her.

I have been thinking of my Mother these days with all the things that are happening in this world.    The pandemic would have been shocking but she would have coped.    All the racial anger would have been against her feelings on life.   She loved all and I believe passed that on to us.   I wish I had her way of phrasing things.

Haiku

A hungry heart is

Somehow always open to

Both good and bad food.

Dia Dhuit

Mary

 

My uneventful Sunday got pretty full after all.

I contacted one of my Wisconsin Celtic Friends, Joan,  to get a number for another Celtic Friend, Maureen.   Joan wasn't home, so I called another Wisconsin Celtic Friend. Janet.    We had a nice long catch up conversation and I hung up forgetting to ask for the number.      Then     I FOUND Maureen's number.    Just about then Joan called me back so we had a nice long catch up conversation.     I just feel so good.

I DID call Maureen and she and I took care of what I wanted to ask her and WE caught up on each other and she asked me to think about presenting a talk on the trips I took alone to Wales, Cornwall and the Isle of Man.    

So I spent the afternoon finding the pictures.    Now I have to figure out which set belongs to which place:) :)    They have such a similar terrain.    It will be fun.

Haiku
As we walk along
I wish I could ride a cloud
To eternity.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Usually Oklahoma gets about 4 inches of rain in June.    BUT did it all have to come tooncet.    (Sound it out.)   It means at once. 

That is what happened.   My poor Vita is traumatized by all the rain and thunder.   Fortunately it started at about noon so she had her morning potty break before things got bad.   She is really irritated with me.  I know she thinks I control these things.

I went to the funeral of a dear friend, Curtis Dyer, today.   It was a lovely mass and remembrance.  My dear friend, Robbi, his wife will be so lonely.    I know how that is and she had no children to lift her up, so I must be sure to be in touch with her regularly for the next weeks.    We have some mutual friends who all love our Robbi so this will not be difficult.    Please pray for her and her Curtis.

Still staying safe, with masks and as much distancing as one can do at a funeral.

Haiku
The rain matched my mood
Cleansing but dampening joy
I need the sunshine.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Just hangin' out.    Aren't we all?    Sure hope this thing passes quickly.    I don't have much hope though.   Whenever I DO go to a store a good 50% of the people, sometimes including the server people, are not wearing masks.     6 feet distance is PRETTY well honored, especially when things are marked.

I was home most of the day, did talk to a friend and my Bart always calls me.    I had to run to Walgreens for a couple of things.   You know that my Vita resents it when I leave her alone.     She is a good little doggie companion.

A haiku for you   ( I will try\ to do this as long as things are so DULL around here.)

Love comes in sizes
It has to, to fit all needs
Open your hearts to love.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Well. This was a nice day. The weather was warm but not oppressive. Miss you all.   Vita and I had a couple of really nice walks. I sometimes think I am not active enough for her:) After all, she is only about 2, a teenager in dog years if that.

I took care of a couple of projects today with the Quilt Guild and talked to a couple of people I had missed.

I also read a few chapters of the book I am into – Irish Whiskey by Greeley. It is good, but I think I liked his earlier ones better. If you read them, what do you think?

Tomorrow another quiet day, though I may have to run an errand or two.

Hope you are all well.

I love you all

I believe in joy

I believe in loving you

You are the reason

Dia Dhuit

Mary

It was a nice day.      I had an appointment with Dr. Toy, my chiropractor today.   He says I am doing quite well, and I can attest to that.   I have far less aches and pains these days.

I did a bit of shopping on my way home.     Vita was not happy with me.   She does not approve of my leaving her at any time:)     We had three nice walks today.     The last one was pretty hot but I wore a shirt and hat to protect my skin which is reacting to the sun since I had the chemo.    Darn.

I have started reading again.     I used to read all the time, but when Dick got sick, he stopped reading and I did too.   I don't know why.    But I am reading again and this will keep my hours full.   I need stimulation.

Hope you are all well.

I love you all \

Dia dhuit
Mary

Have been keeping myself kind of busy the past couple of days.     I have started actively editing my book of the 12 Celtic Patron Saints which is good because I was so drained for a while that I did not want to face it:(

But I want to face it now.   Today I took care of several OUTSIDE things in the morning when it has been really nice around here.    Then I took care of my Lawton Celtic notices.    Had to cancel the meeting for next Friday as there is a funeral for the husband of one of our members.      Please pray for Curtis and his wife Robbie who is one of our Lawton members.

Weekends don't mean much to me, but I will be going to Mass tomorrow night.    Always glad to be back in my church and to receive communion again.

Blessings to you all

Dia Dhuit
Mary


Haiku

Summer has come on
Now we rejoice in dry heat
Yet yearn for cool rain.

Well, obviously, I got lazy the past two days - probably because being home bound loses its charm after this number of months.

I have managed to keep myself sane and try to accomplish SOMETHING everyday.    Not always easy but at least Vita gets me out of the house at least twice a day for a short walk.     It has to be short because it is SO darned hot.

I went grocery shopping yesterday and did a couple of errands and shopping today.    I am careful to follow the rules and always use my mask when I am in parking lots and stores.

All my family out here are well.   I am planning a small group of my Celtic Club to meet next week on Friday unless there is a resurgence of the virus.    Several restaurants are open and there will only be about five of us.   I am absolutely lonely.

A poem for you because I feel guilty for missing two days.

Great Horned Owl

Silently he floats
Grey ghost of the evening
Peace in the darkness.

Love you all
Dia Dhuit
Mary

A Very quiet Sunday.    Since I went to Mass last night, I only left the house to walk Vita and we did not see a single soul while we were out there three times.

The coming week, because of the pandemic and everything else that is happening, including the marches that are going on that are mainly peaceful.    It will be something to be monitored,    My life will be very quiet as I will stay home except for really important things like Doctor appointments and shopping.   I wear a mask when I go out and am very careful.

Hope you all can say the same.    God Bless You All.
Dia Dhuit
Mary

It was a bit and I mean a bit cooler today.    The top was 95 degrees.    I a worried about what summer will  bring to Oklahoma.    Maybe the winters weren't so bad:)

I was home all day today and just puttered around an rested.    Hopefully I will be able to accomplish more tomorrrow.

Love you all
Dia Dhuit
Mary

Another early HOT day.    My thermometer said 100.     The weatherpersons are saying 95.    I hope they are right - Under any circumstances - it is HOT>

I was home all day.    Watered plants, finished cleaning my sunroom, did the wash.    So I didn't feel so alone until later in the day.     I love voices in the house and called a couple of people.   My lovely niece Suzi is going to call me back.     I am SO glad.

Tomorrow is just as quiet though I will go to Mass at 4:30PM.

We did get a thunderstorm last night.     Lots of thunder - VERY little rain but it scared my Vita no end.     The first thunder sent her under the bed in the guest room.     At least she crawls all the way under.   Our Chelsea used to run in to the bedroom when she heard thunder and just stick her head under the bed.     Her butt was there for all the evil things to get.

Love you all
Dia Dhuit
Mary

Sorry that I got lazy the last couple of nights.     No excuse.     Nothing much is happening around here except the heat.    The weather people say it is 100 Degrees but my  thermometer shows 105 Degrees.      In any case HOT.

Vita and I did go for a couple of walks.    I took the longer one this morning as I knew the more oppressive heat was coming this afternoon.

I remember shortly after Dick and I were married that there was a rather long heat spell in Wisconsin.   We were having trouble sleeping and just being in the house and poor Jim, a night worker was sleeping on the deck which was shady during the day and not as hot as indoors.    One day Dick just said.   "That's it!!! We are getting air conditioning."     And we did too, very quickly.    That many years ago, we were really ahead of most people.

Well,  A quiet weekend ahead.  I'll go to Mass on Saturday night again.

Hope all is well with all of you.     Shelter in place as much as you can and wear masks in crowds.    Bart makes me do this:) so you all have to too.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

A reasonably busy day.     Started off with a visit to my Chiropractor, Dr. Toy.    He put my neck back where it belongs and I feel better about that.

Spent the rest of the day writing and trying to think of ideas for poems and also for a quilt.   Will keep working on that.

Nothing else exciting. 

Bart called as always.   I am so glad he is here and always checks on me.    I am truly blessed.

I have been thinking.     Kind of dangerous , right?    

I was a child when the polio epidemic swept the country.    A neighbor girl died of the disease and sent my mother into a panic with all of her children.

Look up the Watts Riots.   I was in southern California when that summer occurred.    I lived in Costa Mesa no more than 10 or 15 miles from Santa Ana which had its share of the violence.    It was a scary time.    The only thing I can tell you is that this too will pass.    It will be in the memories of people 50 to 60 years from now when something as catastrophic happens again.
Let God bless us and let us help one another.

Take care.

We are supposed to have hot summer weather by the weekend.
Dia dhuit
Mary

It was a lovely day today - in the mid 80s and sunny.    Vita and I went out a few times.   I have to wear a shirt and hat because I still have that sun allergy and suppose I really look like an old lady.

Went to Mass tonight so will be home all day tomorrow

Til tomorrow
Mary

I thought yesterday was quiet.    The temps were up in the high 80s.   And it was not humid so it was quite pleasant.     I talked to a couple of friends today so was not too lonely.

Vita and I went for several walks which really helps.

Hope you are all well.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

This was a REALLY quiet day.      I only saw one neighbor to say hi to and talked to Bart for a minute

Worked on some poems and finished my soup which I will eat tonight.    It smells good.

Vita took me out three times today.     She also spent quite some time in her back yard.    At least she keeps me moving.

Since nothing much is happening I will close with a Haiku.


Dia dhuit
\Mary

The Lord blesses us
With rain to keep away thirst
And make our Earth green.

A rather nice day.     I was expecting lower temperatures, it got up to 89 degrees.    But the rain they projected did not occur.     I think I told you that my Vita is afraid of thunder.     She was terribly unhappy with the hail we had the other day too.

I made a pot of minestrone soup today, so I will eat hearty and have some in the freezer for lazy days.

This afternoon, I went over to Bart's house so we could watch the space launch together.   As you all know by now, I am sure, the launch was postponed.      We had a good visit and plan on trying again on Saturday.

Shelter in place
Shelter with God
Shelter with those you love
And this too will pass
And make us stronger for it.

Be safe.    I love you
Mary

A reasonably productive and busy day.    Kerry is back cleaning my house for me.
Thank heavens.

I went grocery shopping  this afternoon for the first time in three weeks.   Perhaps I should do this from now on as I spent less overall by quite a bit:)

The weather was pleasant when I took my Vita out for her walks.    We are supposed to get rain tomorrow.   My girl will not be happy with that.    But it is only 40% and I find that 40% is iffy.

The rest of the week is quiet.   I need to get to work on two poems that I have the seeds of in my mind.   I will share them with you when I get them ready.

Dia Dhuit
Mary

Love you all

Miss you all

What a day.   Not exciting but indicative of what may be coming.\


We had misty weather, far less than the rain and hail that was possible.    Vita and I had three nice walks today.    We don't walk far but it is good for both of us.

Temps were in the low 70s.     Nice but not seasonal.   I spent the day rather lazily, trying to get myself motivated for  poetry and for quilting creations.     Don't know if I did any good, but I didn['t lose ground.:)

It is hard to get motivated when one spends so many hours alone.

I miss my sweetheart and I miss my groups that I attended and intermixed with every week.   Hopefully soon we will be able to be together again, but this viris is horrible and we don not need to be pushing it.

Love you all.
Mary