This "quiet" Saturday turned out to be a real exhausting day. Started out quiet enough. Chelsea and I had a lovely morning walk.
Then, I decided that since I had replaced the glass in the front door with the screen, I had better clean that side of the garage. That was my mistake. I spent the lions share of the day moving things and sweeping and washing the garage floor. BUT it is done and I have lots of trash for Tuesday. I would have even more if I had had the energy to clean the shelves too. But that can keep for another day.
Jim and Michelle brought dinner over to us today. A wonderful refried been appetizer, chicken enchiladas and warm volcano cake with vanilla ice cream. Excellent. We were all very hungry after our busy days and then finished off the evening with a game of Rummy. Dick won and Jim was close on his heels.
So. I am tired and ready for a good night's sleep. TOMORROW will be quiet. (I hope.)
Have a nice Sunday.
Love
Mary
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
This was a rather pleasant quiet beginning to the Memorial Day Weekend. I had no appointments or errands. I did go to the Dairy Queen and had lunch with the Wells Fargo crew for the first time in weeks. That was a nice break in the day.
I cleaned the kitchen this morning and also cleaned off my desk. Again. This time, I actually accomplished finishing up a lot of loose ends that have been hanging on and on.
Jacquie called today. She had called on my birthday while I was out for lunch with my high school buddies. I had tried to call her a couple of times between then and now and we finally connected. She is a special lady and I miss her. It is good that we do talk once in a while. We have been, after all friends for 48 years and were related for a good chunk of them. I need to email Vikki. Jacquie told me that Vikki's son broke some bones in Rio de Janero. (He is a motorcycle racer on the Kawasaki team and was sent to Rio to race there.) He came home to heal and then will be going back. I am sure that Vikki has mixed feelings about that. She sent me pictures and a poster of her son Scott. He is a handsome young man and doing what he loves.
I have been reading a journal that my nephew, Nora and Leif's son, Stenn wrote while he and his wife Bing were in China for the Chinese New Year visiting Bing's family. It sounds like an a unbelievably wonderful trip and he would like to go back. It is a marvelous journal that he sent a copy of to Mother. She was so pleased. He had a quote in the journal that suited those newlyweds, I thought. "We will fly in heaven, two birds with one pair of wings, and together on earth, two trees with branches interlaced." It was the caption for a picture of them standing in front of two trees intertwined. Isn't that beautiful?
Have a super holiday weekend.
Love
Mary
I cleaned the kitchen this morning and also cleaned off my desk. Again. This time, I actually accomplished finishing up a lot of loose ends that have been hanging on and on.
Jacquie called today. She had called on my birthday while I was out for lunch with my high school buddies. I had tried to call her a couple of times between then and now and we finally connected. She is a special lady and I miss her. It is good that we do talk once in a while. We have been, after all friends for 48 years and were related for a good chunk of them. I need to email Vikki. Jacquie told me that Vikki's son broke some bones in Rio de Janero. (He is a motorcycle racer on the Kawasaki team and was sent to Rio to race there.) He came home to heal and then will be going back. I am sure that Vikki has mixed feelings about that. She sent me pictures and a poster of her son Scott. He is a handsome young man and doing what he loves.
I have been reading a journal that my nephew, Nora and Leif's son, Stenn wrote while he and his wife Bing were in China for the Chinese New Year visiting Bing's family. It sounds like an a unbelievably wonderful trip and he would like to go back. It is a marvelous journal that he sent a copy of to Mother. She was so pleased. He had a quote in the journal that suited those newlyweds, I thought. "We will fly in heaven, two birds with one pair of wings, and together on earth, two trees with branches interlaced." It was the caption for a picture of them standing in front of two trees intertwined. Isn't that beautiful?
Have a super holiday weekend.
Love
Mary
Thursday, May 22, 2008
We had a very nice day.
Chelsea and I walked a pleasant walk. It was a bit early but with the pleasant, not warm, but pleasant temperatures and birds singing and the trees finally all budding out nice and green it was a wonderful walk.
The only appointment we had was with Dr. Herman at the Sheboygan Clinic. He had very good news. Dick's tests were just perfect so unless we see any changes we don't have to to back to him for quite some time.
On the way home we stopped at Adams Aurora Drug Store and picked out a walker for Dick. They had quite a selection and with the authorization of the doctors it is covered for him. At least so far. Anyway, he is walking much more securely. The pain is still as bad but now with solid support, not just the cane, he can move quite easily and doesn't feel so vulnerable and unsteady.
This afternoon, I went over to Fleet Farm and purchased a table and two chairs for the deck. I would like Dick and me to spend a lot of time out there this year when it warms up. I have several ideas to keep the mosquitos away and we love sitting out and enjoying the warm evening air and it will be so pleasant to hear the children playing in Lions Park which is just through the woods and across the railroad tracks.
We had some of Bobbie's delicious lasagna for supper tonight. Now, I am exhausted and intend to rest for the rest of the evening.
Tomorrow should be much quieter. Good thing. I have a LOT of cleaning to catch up on.
Love
Mary
Chelsea and I walked a pleasant walk. It was a bit early but with the pleasant, not warm, but pleasant temperatures and birds singing and the trees finally all budding out nice and green it was a wonderful walk.
The only appointment we had was with Dr. Herman at the Sheboygan Clinic. He had very good news. Dick's tests were just perfect so unless we see any changes we don't have to to back to him for quite some time.
On the way home we stopped at Adams Aurora Drug Store and picked out a walker for Dick. They had quite a selection and with the authorization of the doctors it is covered for him. At least so far. Anyway, he is walking much more securely. The pain is still as bad but now with solid support, not just the cane, he can move quite easily and doesn't feel so vulnerable and unsteady.
This afternoon, I went over to Fleet Farm and purchased a table and two chairs for the deck. I would like Dick and me to spend a lot of time out there this year when it warms up. I have several ideas to keep the mosquitos away and we love sitting out and enjoying the warm evening air and it will be so pleasant to hear the children playing in Lions Park which is just through the woods and across the railroad tracks.
We had some of Bobbie's delicious lasagna for supper tonight. Now, I am exhausted and intend to rest for the rest of the evening.
Tomorrow should be much quieter. Good thing. I have a LOT of cleaning to catch up on.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Another long day after a very long night. Dick's legs are REALLY getting worse. He had to wake me up two or three times to help him get back to bed from the bathroom area during the night. His poor sore legs are just not cooperating.
We called Dr. Sharon's office this morning and we will have a walker waiting for us at the Drug Store here in Plymouth. We can even choose. We know that this will not alleviate the pain but at least it will help him to move around with the least difficulty and help me a lot. We have been having himself move around on my office chair which is an adventure in itself. I'll let you know how the walker works tomorrow night.
I did the grocery shopping rather early this morning and then left at 11AM to join several members of my high school graduation class for lunch at Firehouse Pizza in Sheboygan Falls. We have not met for quite a long time and it was really fun. I even saw Karen Kelly Hoell who I had not seen in five years. There were 10 or 11 of us which is not a bad turnout. We will meet again in July at our 50th reunion. I have difficulty believing that it is really 50 years. But it is.
Have special Thursday. I hope it will be very quiet.
Love
Mary
P. S. It was a nice birthday too. I got lots of cards and acknowledgements.
PPS. Michelle had a colonostopy today and all was well. We are very grateful.
We called Dr. Sharon's office this morning and we will have a walker waiting for us at the Drug Store here in Plymouth. We can even choose. We know that this will not alleviate the pain but at least it will help him to move around with the least difficulty and help me a lot. We have been having himself move around on my office chair which is an adventure in itself. I'll let you know how the walker works tomorrow night.
I did the grocery shopping rather early this morning and then left at 11AM to join several members of my high school graduation class for lunch at Firehouse Pizza in Sheboygan Falls. We have not met for quite a long time and it was really fun. I even saw Karen Kelly Hoell who I had not seen in five years. There were 10 or 11 of us which is not a bad turnout. We will meet again in July at our 50th reunion. I have difficulty believing that it is really 50 years. But it is.
Have special Thursday. I hope it will be very quiet.
Love
Mary
P. S. It was a nice birthday too. I got lots of cards and acknowledgements.
PPS. Michelle had a colonostopy today and all was well. We are very grateful.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
This day ended up more full than we expected. I had my physical this morning at 9:30AM.
On the way, I stopped at the review and asked for Jack Lutz. I could hear him saying something like WHo wants to see me. He came out from the back looking really puzzled. So I told him that I was Mary Deeley from 48 years ago and the Young Christian Workers in Sheboygan Falls. He did remember and we had a wonderful visit. I learned a lot about what he has been doing and shared with him. We will have to get together again to do more catching up. I told him that the paintings that I got from him are still with me. He said he still paints but not as much and seemed pleased that I had them. It was fun. I will be so glad to tell Mother.
Dr. Murthy reviewed everything. He ended up sending me to X Ray for my shoulder, scheduling a radiology test for the pain in my side in the gall bladder area and sent me to schedule physical therapy for my knees and hips. He is concerned that I am stressed and not sleeping well too so he prescribed Ambien for two weeks to get me back on track and some meds for my stomach too. So I am somewhat of a mess. But he said that my overall health is great. All my vitals are good and I DO treat myself well as far as exercise and eating. So. We just need to do something about all these dumb achy spots.
I got the x ray done today and the other things are scheduled in the next two weeks. I will start taking the medication tomorrow. We ate kind of late tonight and I need to take both on an empty stomach. The pharmacist suggested that I take them just before I go to bed.
Dick had his dentist appointment scheduled for 2PM for his cavity. We expected that it would take about a half an hour. His next appointment for the MRI on his knee was at 3:15PM which seemed like plenty of time. BUT Dr. Joe needed to spend more time on Dick and it got to be close to three and I was in a panic. I was afraid that they would cancel his MRI and he had already taken the sedative to calm him during what he thought would be a really awful experience (he had one before). The dentist office called the clinic and told them that we would be late and the clinic said there was no problem. The doctor was waiting when we came in and wheeled him right down there. Dick's right leg is WAY swollen again and it HURTS. He is having a terrible time walking. Dr. Joseph helped us get downstairs (thank heavens for the elevator) and into the car. At the clinics they have wheel chairs so that is a big help. After we are all through with the tests and Dr. Sharon reviews everything we will, if need be, discuss a walker or wheelchair.
The MRI turned out to be EASY. They put him in feet first and his head was never inside the dreaded tube. The whole procedure only took about a half an hour. So, this was a good thing and I got calmed down too.
We got home to the amazing smell of lasagna in our house. Bobbie and Bill had arrived and Bobbie had the lasagna already cooking. I did not have to do a thing. (I did cook up the last of the Morels for Bobbie and me to eat with dinner. It seemed only fair that she get some since she WAS supposed to be out searching too before she broke her foot.) We had that delicious lasagna, peas and tossed salad with melt in your mouth caramel merengue cookies for dessert. It was all absolutely delicious. And she left everything for us to freeze for future meals. I am taking a nice serving for Mom tomorrow.
Tomorrow will be much easier. At least there are no medical appointments. That is really hard to believe.
I will be having lunch in Sheboygan Falls at the Firehouse with the gals from the Class of 58. Have not seen them for quite some time. This is our reunion year too.
I read a super proverb today. "You do not really understand something unless you can explain it to your grandmother."
Til tomorrow
Mary
On the way, I stopped at the review and asked for Jack Lutz. I could hear him saying something like WHo wants to see me. He came out from the back looking really puzzled. So I told him that I was Mary Deeley from 48 years ago and the Young Christian Workers in Sheboygan Falls. He did remember and we had a wonderful visit. I learned a lot about what he has been doing and shared with him. We will have to get together again to do more catching up. I told him that the paintings that I got from him are still with me. He said he still paints but not as much and seemed pleased that I had them. It was fun. I will be so glad to tell Mother.
Dr. Murthy reviewed everything. He ended up sending me to X Ray for my shoulder, scheduling a radiology test for the pain in my side in the gall bladder area and sent me to schedule physical therapy for my knees and hips. He is concerned that I am stressed and not sleeping well too so he prescribed Ambien for two weeks to get me back on track and some meds for my stomach too. So I am somewhat of a mess. But he said that my overall health is great. All my vitals are good and I DO treat myself well as far as exercise and eating. So. We just need to do something about all these dumb achy spots.
I got the x ray done today and the other things are scheduled in the next two weeks. I will start taking the medication tomorrow. We ate kind of late tonight and I need to take both on an empty stomach. The pharmacist suggested that I take them just before I go to bed.
Dick had his dentist appointment scheduled for 2PM for his cavity. We expected that it would take about a half an hour. His next appointment for the MRI on his knee was at 3:15PM which seemed like plenty of time. BUT Dr. Joe needed to spend more time on Dick and it got to be close to three and I was in a panic. I was afraid that they would cancel his MRI and he had already taken the sedative to calm him during what he thought would be a really awful experience (he had one before). The dentist office called the clinic and told them that we would be late and the clinic said there was no problem. The doctor was waiting when we came in and wheeled him right down there. Dick's right leg is WAY swollen again and it HURTS. He is having a terrible time walking. Dr. Joseph helped us get downstairs (thank heavens for the elevator) and into the car. At the clinics they have wheel chairs so that is a big help. After we are all through with the tests and Dr. Sharon reviews everything we will, if need be, discuss a walker or wheelchair.
The MRI turned out to be EASY. They put him in feet first and his head was never inside the dreaded tube. The whole procedure only took about a half an hour. So, this was a good thing and I got calmed down too.
We got home to the amazing smell of lasagna in our house. Bobbie and Bill had arrived and Bobbie had the lasagna already cooking. I did not have to do a thing. (I did cook up the last of the Morels for Bobbie and me to eat with dinner. It seemed only fair that she get some since she WAS supposed to be out searching too before she broke her foot.) We had that delicious lasagna, peas and tossed salad with melt in your mouth caramel merengue cookies for dessert. It was all absolutely delicious. And she left everything for us to freeze for future meals. I am taking a nice serving for Mom tomorrow.
Tomorrow will be much easier. At least there are no medical appointments. That is really hard to believe.
I will be having lunch in Sheboygan Falls at the Firehouse with the gals from the Class of 58. Have not seen them for quite some time. This is our reunion year too.
I read a super proverb today. "You do not really understand something unless you can explain it to your grandmother."
Til tomorrow
Mary
Monday, May 19, 2008
I knew that today was going to be busy but it turned out to be even more than I had planned on and tomorrow got added on to which was NOT my plan.
Started out with a nice walk with Chelsea. We saw other walkers but from a distance. So it was a nice quiet walk.
I left at about 8:45AM to stop and visit Mom. I brought her some mac and cheese and her quilt that I had done some work on for her. At 9:30AM Bible Study started. It was on the Body and Blood of Christ and we had a lot to say about that. As we are the only church that believes that Christ IS the bread and wine, body and blood of Christ. We have a special gift.
Anyway we had a lot to say.
Then I went to the Plymouth Review office for an interview with Sue there about our Celtic Women Group in Sheboygan County. I think that went quite well. As I was talking to her, we got into a discussion of the general condition of the Catholic Church as to why DON'T they allow married priests or women priests and she told me that a priest who had left the priesthood worked at the Review a day or two a week and his name was Jack Lutz. I am SO excited. I have been trying to find Jack for many many years. I knew him in 1959 or 1960 when I belonged to the Young Christian Workers a group of unmarried working people out of school who wanted to do things together. Jack was in the seminary at St. Francis and would join us during his vacations. He was charming and we became close friends at that time. He painted then. I have two of his paintings framed and hung in my den in the basement. They are beautiful. Tomorrow is as busy as today was
BUT I am going to stop at the Review on my way to see Dr. Murthy in the morning because Jack is going to be working tomorrow. They are not telling him that I am coming. Won't that be fun!!!.
After my Doctor appointment, we will have a bit of time before Dick's Dentist appointment at two followed closely by his MRI at 3:15.
Bobbie and Bill are coming over tomorrow at about 4:30. Bobbie is fixing us a birthday dinner of lasagna with the trimmings. We are so looking forward to it and with all that is now happening, I am sure glad that we picked this day. We can just come home to good company and a good meal.
Have a good day.
All my love
Mary
Started out with a nice walk with Chelsea. We saw other walkers but from a distance. So it was a nice quiet walk.
I left at about 8:45AM to stop and visit Mom. I brought her some mac and cheese and her quilt that I had done some work on for her. At 9:30AM Bible Study started. It was on the Body and Blood of Christ and we had a lot to say about that. As we are the only church that believes that Christ IS the bread and wine, body and blood of Christ. We have a special gift.
Anyway we had a lot to say.
Then I went to the Plymouth Review office for an interview with Sue there about our Celtic Women Group in Sheboygan County. I think that went quite well. As I was talking to her, we got into a discussion of the general condition of the Catholic Church as to why DON'T they allow married priests or women priests and she told me that a priest who had left the priesthood worked at the Review a day or two a week and his name was Jack Lutz. I am SO excited. I have been trying to find Jack for many many years. I knew him in 1959 or 1960 when I belonged to the Young Christian Workers a group of unmarried working people out of school who wanted to do things together. Jack was in the seminary at St. Francis and would join us during his vacations. He was charming and we became close friends at that time. He painted then. I have two of his paintings framed and hung in my den in the basement. They are beautiful. Tomorrow is as busy as today was
BUT I am going to stop at the Review on my way to see Dr. Murthy in the morning because Jack is going to be working tomorrow. They are not telling him that I am coming. Won't that be fun!!!.
After my Doctor appointment, we will have a bit of time before Dick's Dentist appointment at two followed closely by his MRI at 3:15.
Bobbie and Bill are coming over tomorrow at about 4:30. Bobbie is fixing us a birthday dinner of lasagna with the trimmings. We are so looking forward to it and with all that is now happening, I am sure glad that we picked this day. We can just come home to good company and a good meal.
Have a good day.
All my love
Mary
Sunday, May 18, 2008
I went to the 8AM mass this morning. It was a nice service but neither the organist or the cantor showed up so we were as Fr. Van Beeck said "on our own". He started us in most of the hymns and we just recited the Gloria, the Sanctus and the Agnus Dei. During Communion, Father could not start the hymn because he was busy but some brave soul started one. Unfortunately it was one that we had trouble remembering the title so we joined her mainly in the chorus. But it was OK. I think everybody sang louder because they felt their voices were needed.
The rest of the day was spent at home. I did a lot of stuff but I don't really think that I could tell you exactly what. The most important thing was a nice hour and a half nap around noon. I felt so very tired after I got us fed breakfast that I had trouble keeping my eyes open so just laid down and was GONE.
Jim and Michelle came over for dinner so we could hear all about their cruise. They have some really great pictures and looked like they were having fun - so they have PROOF. We had cream cheese with jalipeno jelly on crackers for an appetizer, riblets, corn, German potato salad and salad for dinner. All turned out good. Jim and Michelle worked at a Diabetes Walk in Grafton today and brought Dick a BUNCH of neat Diabetes stuff. Two new meters with test strips, hand soap and lotions and some nice reference books. I have decided to start a shelf of diabetes related books so I can reference easily. Dick's foot was swollen this afternoon. I think the ace bandages they use after the sclero cause swelling, just by their nature and the sensitivity of his feet. His leg was really bothering him today. I am SO glad that we see Dr. Sharon tomorrow. We believe that he is going to do x rays.
Anyway, tomorrow will go on forever so if you think of us, pray for us.
In the Reader's Digest May 2008 issue submitted by Donald Clements. "A garden center customer picks up a container of insecticide and asks the salesperson. 'Is this good for red ants?'
'No', says the salesperson, 'It'll kill 'em!' "
Love
Mary
The rest of the day was spent at home. I did a lot of stuff but I don't really think that I could tell you exactly what. The most important thing was a nice hour and a half nap around noon. I felt so very tired after I got us fed breakfast that I had trouble keeping my eyes open so just laid down and was GONE.
Jim and Michelle came over for dinner so we could hear all about their cruise. They have some really great pictures and looked like they were having fun - so they have PROOF. We had cream cheese with jalipeno jelly on crackers for an appetizer, riblets, corn, German potato salad and salad for dinner. All turned out good. Jim and Michelle worked at a Diabetes Walk in Grafton today and brought Dick a BUNCH of neat Diabetes stuff. Two new meters with test strips, hand soap and lotions and some nice reference books. I have decided to start a shelf of diabetes related books so I can reference easily. Dick's foot was swollen this afternoon. I think the ace bandages they use after the sclero cause swelling, just by their nature and the sensitivity of his feet. His leg was really bothering him today. I am SO glad that we see Dr. Sharon tomorrow. We believe that he is going to do x rays.
Anyway, tomorrow will go on forever so if you think of us, pray for us.
In the Reader's Digest May 2008 issue submitted by Donald Clements. "A garden center customer picks up a container of insecticide and asks the salesperson. 'Is this good for red ants?'
'No', says the salesperson, 'It'll kill 'em!' "
Love
Mary
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Well, this has been a wonderful day, so far. Chelsea and I went for our walk this morning. It was a bit shorter than some because she cut through the path in the woods which cuts quite a bit out. But she accomplished what was needed in the time she was out.
Good thing, because I was gone from about 9:30 to 4. Jim and Michelle came and took her out twice while I was gone. Dick is just SO unsteady that it seems best. It is becoming very difficult for me to be gone if we think that Chelsea needs anything.
Anyway, at 9:30 I took my bars and cupcakes over to the Senior Center for the Condo Association Meeting which I was unable to attend. I talked to Phil Kalchthaler, who is Vice President, and a friend for many years before I left so he knew I was there. However, later, I wish I could have come. Michelle had said she would run for an open place on the board but needed someone, not in her unit, to nominate her.
However, I was committed to the Morel Hunting day with Little John. We all met at Fleet Farm at 10:15 to 10:30. There were nine of us including Little John. We carpooled. I rode with four ladies. Debbie from Green Bay, and Tina, Kris and another gal, my mind is blanking but it will come to me later, from the Mequon area. They were originally from Two Rivers and knew my cousins Ann and Marcia Bowser. Small world.
We got to the site off of Hwy 28 beyond Beechwood. I need to investigate Beechwood sometime for genealogy purposes. Little John shared one of his spots with us and asked us to please find our own. We snacked while he ran though what we would be doing and what we would be looking for. Then we started out. We had quite a successful day. We found several pockets where there were a dozen or more scattered in a close area. I weighed mine when I got home and have about 10 ounces. I tossed some of them into our common pan. Little John fried some up in Linda's homemade butter in a nice cast iron skillet on a camp stove so we could all taste them. Very good and we did not do ANY seasoning, just the butter fry. Everybody had a nice share of the harvest. It is sure fun. I am going to check the woods in back of us. Now that I know what to look for perhaps there ARE some there. I also want to go out where I go deer hunting and see if there is any luck there especially near the swamp.
They are quite distinctive. They look like little brains on a pole and when you see them they just jump out at you. They are either kind of caramel colored or a bit grayish brown. I brought home two pretty rocks and some feathers too. I liked today.
When I got home Jim and Michelle came over to tell me what happened at the board meeting. It does not sound like a very productive meeting. The board seems to do a lot of deciding, but does not respond to requests or clarifications. I sent a letter to the vice president listing my concerns. This was NOT discussed but was mentioned and they said that it would be brought up at the next board meeting, which I plan on attending.
I am going to a show at the Plymouth Art Center that Kate is singing in tonight. Not the greatest night as I am really tired, but I need to go for Kate's sake. I missed the last one she performed in and don't want to miss another. Too much is happening too fast. Tomorrow, except for Mass, I can stay home. I can hardly wait.
Love
Mary
Good thing, because I was gone from about 9:30 to 4. Jim and Michelle came and took her out twice while I was gone. Dick is just SO unsteady that it seems best. It is becoming very difficult for me to be gone if we think that Chelsea needs anything.
Anyway, at 9:30 I took my bars and cupcakes over to the Senior Center for the Condo Association Meeting which I was unable to attend. I talked to Phil Kalchthaler, who is Vice President, and a friend for many years before I left so he knew I was there. However, later, I wish I could have come. Michelle had said she would run for an open place on the board but needed someone, not in her unit, to nominate her.
However, I was committed to the Morel Hunting day with Little John. We all met at Fleet Farm at 10:15 to 10:30. There were nine of us including Little John. We carpooled. I rode with four ladies. Debbie from Green Bay, and Tina, Kris and another gal, my mind is blanking but it will come to me later, from the Mequon area. They were originally from Two Rivers and knew my cousins Ann and Marcia Bowser. Small world.
We got to the site off of Hwy 28 beyond Beechwood. I need to investigate Beechwood sometime for genealogy purposes. Little John shared one of his spots with us and asked us to please find our own. We snacked while he ran though what we would be doing and what we would be looking for. Then we started out. We had quite a successful day. We found several pockets where there were a dozen or more scattered in a close area. I weighed mine when I got home and have about 10 ounces. I tossed some of them into our common pan. Little John fried some up in Linda's homemade butter in a nice cast iron skillet on a camp stove so we could all taste them. Very good and we did not do ANY seasoning, just the butter fry. Everybody had a nice share of the harvest. It is sure fun. I am going to check the woods in back of us. Now that I know what to look for perhaps there ARE some there. I also want to go out where I go deer hunting and see if there is any luck there especially near the swamp.
They are quite distinctive. They look like little brains on a pole and when you see them they just jump out at you. They are either kind of caramel colored or a bit grayish brown. I brought home two pretty rocks and some feathers too. I liked today.
When I got home Jim and Michelle came over to tell me what happened at the board meeting. It does not sound like a very productive meeting. The board seems to do a lot of deciding, but does not respond to requests or clarifications. I sent a letter to the vice president listing my concerns. This was NOT discussed but was mentioned and they said that it would be brought up at the next board meeting, which I plan on attending.
I am going to a show at the Plymouth Art Center that Kate is singing in tonight. Not the greatest night as I am really tired, but I need to go for Kate's sake. I missed the last one she performed in and don't want to miss another. Too much is happening too fast. Tomorrow, except for Mass, I can stay home. I can hardly wait.
Love
Mary
Friday, May 16, 2008
Chelsea got me up just a bit early this morning but not early enough to complain about. We took a nice long walk. We found four big geese in the park. They grumbled at us a bit as we started around the park edge, they were pretty much in the middle. Chelsea never saw OR heard them and when they saw that we were not moving towards them they just meandered a bit away and pretty much ignored us too.
I cleaned the kitchen first thing this morning because Dick's procedure was scheduled for 10:30AM, much earlier than we usually have them. This was quite confusing. We weren't sure WHAT was going to be happening today. As it turned out it was the easy one, the Sclerotherapy procedure which just involves finding and injecting chemicals into the bad veins and virtually burning them out. It is the easiest however. Very little discomfort and Dr. Siddique then wraps the leg in an ace bandage for two days. Dick's leg is still hurting him. We have an appointment for xrays on Monday. He is hurting enough that he is willing to use a wheel chair when we are going to the doctors rather than trying to walk those long hallways.
We were home by noon, stopping at the Dairy Queen for a Combo Ultimate Burger meal which we shared. I don't know how any one person could possibly eat a whole one of those. We both took naps then. I was really tired.
I spent the rest of the afternoon cleaning my desk. For two weeks things have been just piling up on it. AGAIN, I have vowed to not let that happen again. Ha Ha.
I fixed soup for Dick's supper as I went to Rhine Plymouth for the bust up party for the Spring League. Nancy picked me up at about 5:30 and we were home by 8. Just long enough. We had chicken, German potato salad and corn for supper. Bill Olson made his famous peach cobbler and Toni Nevicosi made brownies and Jean made cookies so we ate til there was no tomorrow and then had the awards. Nancy and I both got trophies for the pistol league. Nancy was SO excited, she can hardly wait to tell her kids.
Toni told me about a two day Quilts and Fiber Arts University being held on May 30 and 31. I want to go on Friday, if I can. If I can find someone to come and let Chelsea out in the afternoon, I can but Dick just doesn't feel secure walking her any more. I will check in the next couple of days and then decide. Ti wounds like a wonderful day. The possibility of four workshops each day, a speaker at lunch and lunch. Actually the lunch is a potluck and the day costs $25. The money is to help the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts build a museum. The website is http://wiquiltmuseum.com.
Guess that is all. It was an absolutely gorgeous day. Tomorrow is supposed to be lovely too. That is a good because I will be out in the woods with Little John and the others searching for Morel Mushrooms. I sure hope we have a successful hunt. I intend to cook them fresh and then use Jim and Michelle's dehydrator to preserve them for winter use. Mom said that Dad would sometimes bring morels home for us when he was out in the woods in the spring. They are easy to identify and along with puff balls are two fungi that are safe to eat. Not a good idea to just go around cooking mushrooms gathered in the wild, they can be fatal.
I plan on pictures and lots of morels.
Love
Mary
I cleaned the kitchen first thing this morning because Dick's procedure was scheduled for 10:30AM, much earlier than we usually have them. This was quite confusing. We weren't sure WHAT was going to be happening today. As it turned out it was the easy one, the Sclerotherapy procedure which just involves finding and injecting chemicals into the bad veins and virtually burning them out. It is the easiest however. Very little discomfort and Dr. Siddique then wraps the leg in an ace bandage for two days. Dick's leg is still hurting him. We have an appointment for xrays on Monday. He is hurting enough that he is willing to use a wheel chair when we are going to the doctors rather than trying to walk those long hallways.
We were home by noon, stopping at the Dairy Queen for a Combo Ultimate Burger meal which we shared. I don't know how any one person could possibly eat a whole one of those. We both took naps then. I was really tired.
I spent the rest of the afternoon cleaning my desk. For two weeks things have been just piling up on it. AGAIN, I have vowed to not let that happen again. Ha Ha.
I fixed soup for Dick's supper as I went to Rhine Plymouth for the bust up party for the Spring League. Nancy picked me up at about 5:30 and we were home by 8. Just long enough. We had chicken, German potato salad and corn for supper. Bill Olson made his famous peach cobbler and Toni Nevicosi made brownies and Jean made cookies so we ate til there was no tomorrow and then had the awards. Nancy and I both got trophies for the pistol league. Nancy was SO excited, she can hardly wait to tell her kids.
Toni told me about a two day Quilts and Fiber Arts University being held on May 30 and 31. I want to go on Friday, if I can. If I can find someone to come and let Chelsea out in the afternoon, I can but Dick just doesn't feel secure walking her any more. I will check in the next couple of days and then decide. Ti wounds like a wonderful day. The possibility of four workshops each day, a speaker at lunch and lunch. Actually the lunch is a potluck and the day costs $25. The money is to help the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts build a museum. The website is http://wiquiltmuseum.com.
Guess that is all. It was an absolutely gorgeous day. Tomorrow is supposed to be lovely too. That is a good because I will be out in the woods with Little John and the others searching for Morel Mushrooms. I sure hope we have a successful hunt. I intend to cook them fresh and then use Jim and Michelle's dehydrator to preserve them for winter use. Mom said that Dad would sometimes bring morels home for us when he was out in the woods in the spring. They are easy to identify and along with puff balls are two fungi that are safe to eat. Not a good idea to just go around cooking mushrooms gathered in the wild, they can be fatal.
I plan on pictures and lots of morels.
Love
Mary
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Kate and Toni and I went to N Joy this morning to wind down the Spring Fling. I had not been there before. It is very pleasant. They have an actual breakfast sandwich or burrito so I think that Dick would enjoy it for an occasional breakfast. Breakfast spots in Plymouth are getting kind of sparse as two with the best food allow smoking and we have decided that it just isn't worth it hoping that there will be no smokers in the places when we go.
We wound things down nicely and just visited for a while. Kate had picked me up. Dick has a toothache now, (will it ever end) so I got him some Orajel on the way home. He has a dentist appointment on Tuesday, so hopefully it won't get any worse in the next couple of days and they can take care of it then.
The rest of the day was spent at home. I sewed a piece onto a quilt that Mother has almost got finished, cleaned the bathrooms and baked. I also made the fourth Mac and Cheese Recipe from the ABC Good Morning America anchors and weathermen. This was Sam Champion, the weatherman's. We liked it. This time I halved the recipe and still have enough to give to Jim and Michelle, Mom and we will have another good meal and a half from it. Good thing it tastes good.
I also made some ricotta cheese out of some milk that had soured. I seldom buy gallons and this is why. The cheese is good but it is not an efficient way to get it. All you do is heat the sour milk (or fresh for that matter) with lemon juice and salt until it separates. Then you strain it through muslin or fine cheesecloth. The whey can be used to make bread too.
Tomorrow, Dick has his procedure. I think it will be a laser this time. So keep him in your prayers at about 10:30AM.
I have bust up at Rhine in the evening. Nancy will pick me up at about 5:30. Toni will be out there helping John with the meal. So Celtic Women will be represented.
Hope you have a lovely day tomorrow. I got this in an email today. Actually I took parts of the email but the part that I thought I needed. Hope you find it useful too.
Love
Mary
When there is nothing left but God, that is when you find out that God is all you need.
P-----pray
U----until
S----something
H----happens
We wound things down nicely and just visited for a while. Kate had picked me up. Dick has a toothache now, (will it ever end) so I got him some Orajel on the way home. He has a dentist appointment on Tuesday, so hopefully it won't get any worse in the next couple of days and they can take care of it then.
The rest of the day was spent at home. I sewed a piece onto a quilt that Mother has almost got finished, cleaned the bathrooms and baked. I also made the fourth Mac and Cheese Recipe from the ABC Good Morning America anchors and weathermen. This was Sam Champion, the weatherman's. We liked it. This time I halved the recipe and still have enough to give to Jim and Michelle, Mom and we will have another good meal and a half from it. Good thing it tastes good.
I also made some ricotta cheese out of some milk that had soured. I seldom buy gallons and this is why. The cheese is good but it is not an efficient way to get it. All you do is heat the sour milk (or fresh for that matter) with lemon juice and salt until it separates. Then you strain it through muslin or fine cheesecloth. The whey can be used to make bread too.
Tomorrow, Dick has his procedure. I think it will be a laser this time. So keep him in your prayers at about 10:30AM.
I have bust up at Rhine in the evening. Nancy will pick me up at about 5:30. Toni will be out there helping John with the meal. So Celtic Women will be represented.
Hope you have a lovely day tomorrow. I got this in an email today. Actually I took parts of the email but the part that I thought I needed. Hope you find it useful too.
Love
Mary
When there is nothing left but God, that is when you find out that God is all you need.
P-----pray
U----until
S----something
H----happens
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
It was misting pretty good when Chelsea and I went out for our walk so I did not let her go through the park. We sped along too because I do not like getting wet. I have been going over to feed and water Boots right after I walk and feed Chelsea in the morning. He is always very glad to see me but does not expect anything more than food and a little petting then. However, in the evening, he likes lots of attention and playing. He still does not let me hold him much, but tonight I did pick him up and cuddle him and he actually purred.
Dick had an appointment at the Sheboygan Clinic, then when we got there we found that we needed a lab test which had to be done right away and Dick had not prepared. So, we went home and when he was ready went to the lab here in Plymouth and made another appointment for next week to review the results. Just kind of frustrating to have that extra trip into Sheboygan.
Dick's knee and leg are really bothering him too so I did the shopping after lunch this afternoon. It was pick up day for Market Day too so we have LOTS of food in this house.
Tomorrow I am going to do some baking. I will be home all day after one early outing with Kate and Toni. We are going to NJoy a local newer coffee shop. We are going to wrap up the Celtic Women Spring Fling Thing. Tomorrow, Jim and Michelle are coming home too. My understanding is that it will be very late when they get in so I will take care of Boots morning and evening again. I am sure that they had a WONDERFUL time. Hard not to on a cruise ship.
When we were on our cruise, in my previous life, Bart was pretty young, maybe 8. They had a talent contest in one of the lounges one night and Bart decided he wanted to enter. He wanted to tell jokes. So he practiced and we got him all dressed and ready and he signed up. When it got close, he got a bit scared, so I told him that Johnstons don't quit. And my brave little boy walked out on that stage and up to the microphone. He was trembling but told his first joke and (thank heavens for cruise audiences) they loved him and laughed and clapped for him. His face just lit up and he sailed through the rest with no problems at all. He got a trophy and certificate for his efforts. I was SO proud.
Love
Mary
Dick had an appointment at the Sheboygan Clinic, then when we got there we found that we needed a lab test which had to be done right away and Dick had not prepared. So, we went home and when he was ready went to the lab here in Plymouth and made another appointment for next week to review the results. Just kind of frustrating to have that extra trip into Sheboygan.
Dick's knee and leg are really bothering him too so I did the shopping after lunch this afternoon. It was pick up day for Market Day too so we have LOTS of food in this house.
Tomorrow I am going to do some baking. I will be home all day after one early outing with Kate and Toni. We are going to NJoy a local newer coffee shop. We are going to wrap up the Celtic Women Spring Fling Thing. Tomorrow, Jim and Michelle are coming home too. My understanding is that it will be very late when they get in so I will take care of Boots morning and evening again. I am sure that they had a WONDERFUL time. Hard not to on a cruise ship.
When we were on our cruise, in my previous life, Bart was pretty young, maybe 8. They had a talent contest in one of the lounges one night and Bart decided he wanted to enter. He wanted to tell jokes. So he practiced and we got him all dressed and ready and he signed up. When it got close, he got a bit scared, so I told him that Johnstons don't quit. And my brave little boy walked out on that stage and up to the microphone. He was trembling but told his first joke and (thank heavens for cruise audiences) they loved him and laughed and clapped for him. His face just lit up and he sailed through the rest with no problems at all. He got a trophy and certificate for his efforts. I was SO proud.
Love
Mary
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
It was supposed to rain today but so far we have not seen a drop. Chelsea and I had a lovely walk this morning. We got up at 6 on the dot and did not see a single other walker today.
Dick had two medical appointments today. First we had to go to the anti coagulation clinic to have his count checked. It was a bit low 1.7 instead of between the 2 and 3 that is ideal. That is OK for now because of the procedure on Friday. But Melody did adjust the meds a bit. Then we went upstairs to the third floor to see Dr. Hodous. That clinic is SO weird. They have the podiatry department on the very TOP floor at the VERY FAR END of the longest hall so that the people with bad feet have to walk the very furthest for treatment. Dick's foot and leg were bothering him so much that he actually let us get a wheel chair for the trip back down to the lobby. His foot is much relieved tonight and he is doing the recommended exercises so don't worry too much. But keep praying.
We got to spend the rest of the day at home. I did the herb planting today and set a couple of other things outside and watered the indoor plants too.
Tonight I spent about an hour with Boots, so he wouldn't be lonely. Actually, I fell asleep for about a half an hour so I don't know how much company I was. He seemed content to just have someone there. I can't believe that Jim and Michelle will be home in just two more days. Boy does time ever fly.
Bart called today. He is all resettled at home after spending time with Barb in Florida. He said that his critters are hanging on him like velcro. They do get clingy when owners are gone. He sounds good though and he and Barb will be together again in about two weeks. It has been a long long haul. I received a package today from Bart and Barb with my Mother's Day/Birthday present. Two Jim Shore collectibles, Milly, a very sophisticated kitty with a bird perched on top of a birdcage and Jilly, a very suave kitty sitting next to a fishbowl with a goldfish in it. They are quite lovely and I believe they will be perched up above the cupboards peering down on the activity in the kitchen.
I mentioned to him that Jim and Michelle were on their cruise and he, as Bret did, commented on how much fun the cruise we took many years ago was. He said that he really appreciated the fact that I had managed to expose them to so many different things in our lives. I still remember that little guy sitting down for breakfast on the third day or so and telling our waiter. "I'll have my usual please." AND GETTING IT. That was quite an experience for him.
Have a nice Wednesday.
Mary
Dick had two medical appointments today. First we had to go to the anti coagulation clinic to have his count checked. It was a bit low 1.7 instead of between the 2 and 3 that is ideal. That is OK for now because of the procedure on Friday. But Melody did adjust the meds a bit. Then we went upstairs to the third floor to see Dr. Hodous. That clinic is SO weird. They have the podiatry department on the very TOP floor at the VERY FAR END of the longest hall so that the people with bad feet have to walk the very furthest for treatment. Dick's foot and leg were bothering him so much that he actually let us get a wheel chair for the trip back down to the lobby. His foot is much relieved tonight and he is doing the recommended exercises so don't worry too much. But keep praying.
We got to spend the rest of the day at home. I did the herb planting today and set a couple of other things outside and watered the indoor plants too.
Tonight I spent about an hour with Boots, so he wouldn't be lonely. Actually, I fell asleep for about a half an hour so I don't know how much company I was. He seemed content to just have someone there. I can't believe that Jim and Michelle will be home in just two more days. Boy does time ever fly.
Bart called today. He is all resettled at home after spending time with Barb in Florida. He said that his critters are hanging on him like velcro. They do get clingy when owners are gone. He sounds good though and he and Barb will be together again in about two weeks. It has been a long long haul. I received a package today from Bart and Barb with my Mother's Day/Birthday present. Two Jim Shore collectibles, Milly, a very sophisticated kitty with a bird perched on top of a birdcage and Jilly, a very suave kitty sitting next to a fishbowl with a goldfish in it. They are quite lovely and I believe they will be perched up above the cupboards peering down on the activity in the kitchen.
I mentioned to him that Jim and Michelle were on their cruise and he, as Bret did, commented on how much fun the cruise we took many years ago was. He said that he really appreciated the fact that I had managed to expose them to so many different things in our lives. I still remember that little guy sitting down for breakfast on the third day or so and telling our waiter. "I'll have my usual please." AND GETTING IT. That was quite an experience for him.
Have a nice Wednesday.
Mary
Monday, May 12, 2008
A usual 6AM wake up. Chelsea and I headed around the park. There were several other walkers out there despite the fact that it WAS chilly, only about 39 degrees. I pulled out the winter coat and stocking cap.
A quiet morning then until 8:30 when I started on my LONG journey. First, I stopped at Walgreens to pick up some calcium for Mother. Then on to Bible Study. The readings today surely caused a lot of discussion. The Old Testament was from Exodus and had the Lord "continuing his kindness for a thousand generations" and "yet, not declaring the guilty guiltless, but punishing children and grandchildren to the third and fourth generation for their father's wickedness!" We had a LONG discussion on that and have decided that as Jesus saved us from all evil, the punishing of children and grandchildren refers or at least does refer to the fact that abusive and evil ways in a home life, do follow through and continue from one generation to another unless something, goodness and kindness, change this pattern. Sometimes we do get puzzled. We also discussed loving yourself as a prelude to being able to love others. Then a question: Do plants, too, have a responsibility? of life, of blooming? We humans have the ability to choose.
After the study, I went to visit Mother. She is well and had a marvelous Mother's day. The hanging plants that Donna and Randy and Dolores and Ken give her for Mother's day are hanging. I thought I might have seen one of the "tenants" the finches that take up nesting in their "condos" every year. But I am not sure.
After the visit, I went into Sheboygan to the visitation of a dear member of the Sheboygan County Writers Club, Vera Bloemers, who died this week at the age of 100. She was truly a lovely person and her poetry was beautiful. We will miss her so much.
The Writers Club meeting was today so I stayed in town for that. Finally arrived home at about 3PM. We had a nice group. I read my poem that was accepted for the WFOP 2009 Calendar and a poem that I will post after I give it to the person that I wrote it for. Dick read it first and said that he thought it was pretty but he did not get it. The writers group DID get it and I figure that perhaps just thinking it is pretty is enough for Dick. Next week I will read it at Cream City too and see what they think of it.
After dinner, the last of the leftovers so I will begin to cook tomorrow again, I went over to feed and play with Boots. He had a good time and is letting me pet him more. He does not like to be picked up or held though. I really DO miss my Oscar and Roxie. Did I tell you that the last time I went over to Bobbie's house, Roxie seemed almost glad to see me and let me pick her up and cuddle her. Oscar ran and hid though. I am still sad.
Tomorrow I plan on planting the herbs that I bought on Saturday. They will do just fine even if it does get cold some nights. I was a little disappointed, the only herbs that seem to have made it through the winter are the lemon balm and chives which are thriving and the oregano which is struggling a bit. We have been enjoying the fresh chives in eggs and salads.
Tomorrow is a doctor day. All in the morning though so I should be able to get some things done around here.
Later
Mary
A quiet morning then until 8:30 when I started on my LONG journey. First, I stopped at Walgreens to pick up some calcium for Mother. Then on to Bible Study. The readings today surely caused a lot of discussion. The Old Testament was from Exodus and had the Lord "continuing his kindness for a thousand generations" and "yet, not declaring the guilty guiltless, but punishing children and grandchildren to the third and fourth generation for their father's wickedness!" We had a LONG discussion on that and have decided that as Jesus saved us from all evil, the punishing of children and grandchildren refers or at least does refer to the fact that abusive and evil ways in a home life, do follow through and continue from one generation to another unless something, goodness and kindness, change this pattern. Sometimes we do get puzzled. We also discussed loving yourself as a prelude to being able to love others. Then a question: Do plants, too, have a responsibility? of life, of blooming? We humans have the ability to choose.
After the study, I went to visit Mother. She is well and had a marvelous Mother's day. The hanging plants that Donna and Randy and Dolores and Ken give her for Mother's day are hanging. I thought I might have seen one of the "tenants" the finches that take up nesting in their "condos" every year. But I am not sure.
After the visit, I went into Sheboygan to the visitation of a dear member of the Sheboygan County Writers Club, Vera Bloemers, who died this week at the age of 100. She was truly a lovely person and her poetry was beautiful. We will miss her so much.
The Writers Club meeting was today so I stayed in town for that. Finally arrived home at about 3PM. We had a nice group. I read my poem that was accepted for the WFOP 2009 Calendar and a poem that I will post after I give it to the person that I wrote it for. Dick read it first and said that he thought it was pretty but he did not get it. The writers group DID get it and I figure that perhaps just thinking it is pretty is enough for Dick. Next week I will read it at Cream City too and see what they think of it.
After dinner, the last of the leftovers so I will begin to cook tomorrow again, I went over to feed and play with Boots. He had a good time and is letting me pet him more. He does not like to be picked up or held though. I really DO miss my Oscar and Roxie. Did I tell you that the last time I went over to Bobbie's house, Roxie seemed almost glad to see me and let me pick her up and cuddle her. Oscar ran and hid though. I am still sad.
Tomorrow I plan on planting the herbs that I bought on Saturday. They will do just fine even if it does get cold some nights. I was a little disappointed, the only herbs that seem to have made it through the winter are the lemon balm and chives which are thriving and the oregano which is struggling a bit. We have been enjoying the fresh chives in eggs and salads.
Tomorrow is a doctor day. All in the morning though so I should be able to get some things done around here.
Later
Mary
Sunday, May 11, 2008
It was a strange day. There was rain when Chelsea and I went for our walk so we did not go very far. I think she was a bit disappointed but that is the breaks.
I went to the 8AM Mass, then fixed a nice breakfast for Dick and me. We had bacon, scrambled eggs with chives, tater tots and toast. Num Num.
I did a bit of yard work this afternoon. I planted marigold seeds in the front garden and cut a rogue tree out of a bush that grows on the other side of the driveway.
Since it was Mother's Day, I went to Mother's and took her a card and a bottle of wine. She said she had just opened her last bottle so that was good timing. I must remember to bring another one soon. Eileen and Mary and her husband Mike and Margaret and Gwen came in as I was thinking of leaving so the gang was gathering to be with her on this Mother's Day.
Bret called this morning shortly after Mass. He sounds great and says he is doing very well. I do miss my boys. Barb called this evening in lieu of Bart who is on a plane heading back to Oklahoma. In three more weeks. Barb will be permanently back in Oklahoma. I think she has mixed feelings but her folks need her and Bart is reluctant to leave Oklahoma, though I am sure he would if she insisted. But it is really hard to know what is the right decision. Keep them in your prayers. Bart IS doing much better these days and it would be wonderful if this continues.
We had leftovers for dinner again tonight. I still can prepare one more with the leavings by adding a couple of things. Tonight we split leftover chicken and steak.
George called to wish me a happy Mother's Day too. They will be home at the end of June for a wedding on Betsy's side. I do hope we get to spend some time together. Mother said she saw Ginnie Rammer in church today with her son Rick. Ginny is an old neighbor from Pinehurst Court from years ago. George and Rick Rammer's brother, Louis, we called him Dewey, were best friends. Mother and I were remembering what cute little guys they were. They were always together, George with his blond hair and Dewey with his dark hair. Once they put sand in Dewey's dad's gas tank. They were only about 4 or 5 and said they were playing gas station.
Have a good week. We have another marathon doctor week.
Love
Mary
I went to the 8AM Mass, then fixed a nice breakfast for Dick and me. We had bacon, scrambled eggs with chives, tater tots and toast. Num Num.
I did a bit of yard work this afternoon. I planted marigold seeds in the front garden and cut a rogue tree out of a bush that grows on the other side of the driveway.
Since it was Mother's Day, I went to Mother's and took her a card and a bottle of wine. She said she had just opened her last bottle so that was good timing. I must remember to bring another one soon. Eileen and Mary and her husband Mike and Margaret and Gwen came in as I was thinking of leaving so the gang was gathering to be with her on this Mother's Day.
Bret called this morning shortly after Mass. He sounds great and says he is doing very well. I do miss my boys. Barb called this evening in lieu of Bart who is on a plane heading back to Oklahoma. In three more weeks. Barb will be permanently back in Oklahoma. I think she has mixed feelings but her folks need her and Bart is reluctant to leave Oklahoma, though I am sure he would if she insisted. But it is really hard to know what is the right decision. Keep them in your prayers. Bart IS doing much better these days and it would be wonderful if this continues.
We had leftovers for dinner again tonight. I still can prepare one more with the leavings by adding a couple of things. Tonight we split leftover chicken and steak.
George called to wish me a happy Mother's Day too. They will be home at the end of June for a wedding on Betsy's side. I do hope we get to spend some time together. Mother said she saw Ginnie Rammer in church today with her son Rick. Ginny is an old neighbor from Pinehurst Court from years ago. George and Rick Rammer's brother, Louis, we called him Dewey, were best friends. Mother and I were remembering what cute little guys they were. They were always together, George with his blond hair and Dewey with his dark hair. Once they put sand in Dewey's dad's gas tank. They were only about 4 or 5 and said they were playing gas station.
Have a good week. We have another marathon doctor week.
Love
Mary
Saturday, May 10, 2008
I woke up just before 6AM so I got up and took Chelsea for her walk. She is so happy that I have "come to my senses" and am taking her for her normal daily walks again.
Dick and Brenda left for Sarah's wedding this morning at about 9. They had enough time to get there with a lunch stop and possibly time to stop and register at their hotel. We had a lovely breakfast. I prepared cinnamon rolls, toast and scrambled eggs with chives and cheese.
We had the loveliest visit. I told you that dinner was fun last night.
After they left I drove on over to Moraine Gardens and picked up the plants that I need for the pots and the garden. I found everything I wanted EXCEPT for purple basil. I love purple basil because it is so pretty. I am becoming more and more interested in the flavor of basil.
I spent the afternoon, cleaning up my hunting things. Randy had called early this morning to tell me that he would not be out in the field very long and since Dick does not want me out there alone, and that is sensible, (the good old Buddy system) besides, I AM a girl, it made sense for me not to go out hunting today. So I am done again for the season.
So I made a couple of batches of "ice brandy", cleaned my gun and sent a couple of e - mails that I have been putting off.
I imagine that Jim and Michelle are now having a marvelous time on their cruise. I remember how much fun I had on the cruise that I went on with the boys, when they were little, and their Dad. I remember that for two little boys it was quite an experience. After the second day, Bart would tell our waiter that he wanted his "usual" for breakfast and he got it. And Bret asked for chocolate milk. They had to make it with Hershey's syrup but every time we sat down at our table for a meal, he had his chocolate milk within a couple of minutes. As their father said. "I could learn to live like this."
Have a nice Sunday.
Mary
Dick and Brenda left for Sarah's wedding this morning at about 9. They had enough time to get there with a lunch stop and possibly time to stop and register at their hotel. We had a lovely breakfast. I prepared cinnamon rolls, toast and scrambled eggs with chives and cheese.
We had the loveliest visit. I told you that dinner was fun last night.
After they left I drove on over to Moraine Gardens and picked up the plants that I need for the pots and the garden. I found everything I wanted EXCEPT for purple basil. I love purple basil because it is so pretty. I am becoming more and more interested in the flavor of basil.
I spent the afternoon, cleaning up my hunting things. Randy had called early this morning to tell me that he would not be out in the field very long and since Dick does not want me out there alone, and that is sensible, (the good old Buddy system) besides, I AM a girl, it made sense for me not to go out hunting today. So I am done again for the season.
So I made a couple of batches of "ice brandy", cleaned my gun and sent a couple of e - mails that I have been putting off.
I imagine that Jim and Michelle are now having a marvelous time on their cruise. I remember how much fun I had on the cruise that I went on with the boys, when they were little, and their Dad. I remember that for two little boys it was quite an experience. After the second day, Bart would tell our waiter that he wanted his "usual" for breakfast and he got it. And Bret asked for chocolate milk. They had to make it with Hershey's syrup but every time we sat down at our table for a meal, he had his chocolate milk within a couple of minutes. As their father said. "I could learn to live like this."
Have a nice Sunday.
Mary
Friday, May 09, 2008
Chelsea was very happy with me this morning. For the first time in two days we had a proper walk. On Wednesday and Thursday, with the early hunting time, she did not get to walk around. Boy were we delighted when we walked by the woods between the two sections of the park and I saw that the trilliums are all in bloom and beautiful.
I had a pleasantly quiet morning until about 10 when I had to get ready to leave. I gave blood today at 11:00AM and stopped at AC Signs in Sheboygan to pick up the sweatshirts for CWI. Things worked out very well. This is an annual drive that my friend Peggy Feider sponsors in honor of her son Joe who died 10 years ago at the age of 21. In his lifetime he had used over 200 units of blood and she is so happy that these drives have now "paid back" what he used and are continuing to build in his honor. It is called "A Gallon or so for Joe". She is actually the one who got me donating blood. I do it every 6 weeks but make sure that I can attend her yearly function. (She always has lots of food and a present. This year the present is post it notes.)
Then home again. I stopped and dropped some things off at St. Vinnie's and picked up a couple of glass containers to put my Ice Brandies in. I will tell you about them and how they turn out another day.
I even had time for a nap before Dick and Brenda came at 4ish. They came to take DickSR. out for his birthday. They also brought me a beautiful hanging plant of purple double-petunias for the front porch.
I took Brenda for a quick walk through the woods to show her the trilliums. It amazes me how much bigger the blooms are in the shade of the woods than in the sunny edges of the trees.
We went to Sweet Basil for dinner. This time I had their special, a salmon dish with roasted asparagus. We had a lovely time. Then we came home and Dick and Brenda brought Cinderella, the tv version that Julie Andrews did way back in black and white. The music was Rogers and Hammerstein and was WONDERFUL.
Then Dick fixed our closet door, the coat closet in the entry had fallen off its track and I was planning on calling a repair person next week because I kept forgetting and trying to close it and just about knocking myself out.
Anyway, a wonderful day and we hate to see it end.
Love you all.
Later
Mary
I had a pleasantly quiet morning until about 10 when I had to get ready to leave. I gave blood today at 11:00AM and stopped at AC Signs in Sheboygan to pick up the sweatshirts for CWI. Things worked out very well. This is an annual drive that my friend Peggy Feider sponsors in honor of her son Joe who died 10 years ago at the age of 21. In his lifetime he had used over 200 units of blood and she is so happy that these drives have now "paid back" what he used and are continuing to build in his honor. It is called "A Gallon or so for Joe". She is actually the one who got me donating blood. I do it every 6 weeks but make sure that I can attend her yearly function. (She always has lots of food and a present. This year the present is post it notes.)
Then home again. I stopped and dropped some things off at St. Vinnie's and picked up a couple of glass containers to put my Ice Brandies in. I will tell you about them and how they turn out another day.
I even had time for a nap before Dick and Brenda came at 4ish. They came to take DickSR. out for his birthday. They also brought me a beautiful hanging plant of purple double-petunias for the front porch.
I took Brenda for a quick walk through the woods to show her the trilliums. It amazes me how much bigger the blooms are in the shade of the woods than in the sunny edges of the trees.
We went to Sweet Basil for dinner. This time I had their special, a salmon dish with roasted asparagus. We had a lovely time. Then we came home and Dick and Brenda brought Cinderella, the tv version that Julie Andrews did way back in black and white. The music was Rogers and Hammerstein and was WONDERFUL.
Then Dick fixed our closet door, the coat closet in the entry had fallen off its track and I was planning on calling a repair person next week because I kept forgetting and trying to close it and just about knocking myself out.
Anyway, a wonderful day and we hate to see it end.
Love you all.
Later
Mary
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Another 4AM morning. I met Randy out at the site at 4:45AM. Uncle Kenny got a Tom on Wednesday, so he is letting me use his blind if I want to. So today I did. It is nice to have the shelter and not have to be so darned careful not to move a muscle if you see a bird.
I DID have to go up to my old site first thing and pick up my blind and chair. But the rest of the morning was quiet. TOO quiet. I saw two hens. That is ALL. One of them walked withing 10 yards of the blind. It is fun to watch them graze and wander around. BUT I want to see some Toms or Jakes. It is getting pretty discouraging. I keep going out hunting and never get anything. If Randy goes out on Saturday, I will go out too. Tomorrow, I cannot go so Saturday or Sunday are my last chances. Jeff got one up near where he lives also. So there are two. Kenny is going to smoke his.
I came in at 11AM because I had to be home for Dick. Six hours is WAY long enough at one time for me anyway. I took a nice two hour nap this afternoon. I really needed that.
This evening Jim and Michelle took us out for dinner to celebrate Dick's birthday and Mother's day. We went to the Final Approach at the airport. This is our second trip to that restaurant and we have been happy both times. This time two planes coasted up next to the restaurant and the passengers and pilots came in for dinner. Isn't that cool
Jim and Michelle leave tomorrow shortly after noon for their Caribbean Cruise. I will be taking care of Bootsie while they are gone. Tomorrow, our neighbor Dick is going to a Brewers game and I will be walking his Katrina too. So for one day, I will have THREE critters to care for.
I left a message with Donna for Randy to call me if he goes out on Saturday. I said to Donna that I have not seen her in such a long time but I hear what is happening from Mother. Donna said the sweetest and wisest thing. She said that Mother is the glue. Isn't that beautiful.
Guess that is all for now.
Love
Mary
I DID have to go up to my old site first thing and pick up my blind and chair. But the rest of the morning was quiet. TOO quiet. I saw two hens. That is ALL. One of them walked withing 10 yards of the blind. It is fun to watch them graze and wander around. BUT I want to see some Toms or Jakes. It is getting pretty discouraging. I keep going out hunting and never get anything. If Randy goes out on Saturday, I will go out too. Tomorrow, I cannot go so Saturday or Sunday are my last chances. Jeff got one up near where he lives also. So there are two. Kenny is going to smoke his.
I came in at 11AM because I had to be home for Dick. Six hours is WAY long enough at one time for me anyway. I took a nice two hour nap this afternoon. I really needed that.
This evening Jim and Michelle took us out for dinner to celebrate Dick's birthday and Mother's day. We went to the Final Approach at the airport. This is our second trip to that restaurant and we have been happy both times. This time two planes coasted up next to the restaurant and the passengers and pilots came in for dinner. Isn't that cool
Jim and Michelle leave tomorrow shortly after noon for their Caribbean Cruise. I will be taking care of Bootsie while they are gone. Tomorrow, our neighbor Dick is going to a Brewers game and I will be walking his Katrina too. So for one day, I will have THREE critters to care for.
I left a message with Donna for Randy to call me if he goes out on Saturday. I said to Donna that I have not seen her in such a long time but I hear what is happening from Mother. Donna said the sweetest and wisest thing. She said that Mother is the glue. Isn't that beautiful.
Guess that is all for now.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
I had to get up at 4AM to meet Kenny and Randy out at the field to go turkey hunting. Fortunately it was not raining when we got up so we started out OK. Randy had to go to work at 7:30AM so he left early and let me use his pop up hunting blind after he left. THIS was a good thing. After I saw him leave, I wended my way down there and got in the tent. At about 9:30 it started to rain. If I had been up behind my blind, I would have had to head home early. I left for home at 10:00 between the rains anyway. Since Dick had to be at PT at 12:45 I had planned on going home at 11AM anyway. I figure 6 hours is long enough for an old lady under any circumstances. I did not see any Toms though I did see three or four hens. Perhaps tomorrow will be better. At least it will not be raining.
Dick's knee is starting to cause pain in his foot and calf. Jaran, the physical therapist, decided to just give us the set of exercises for Dick to do each day both now and when his knee is better so we do not have to go back.
Dr. Sharon gave us a knee brace to put on his leg and suggested warmth. I will have to get up the heating pad.
After all the appointments we went to the bank, the vet, Walgreens and shopping. Whew.
This is Dick's birthday and we went to dinner together just us tonight. Tomorrow Jim and Michelle are taking us out before they go on their trip and on Friday, Dick and Brenda will be here and take us out so he is being feted properly and I get to ride on his coattails.
We always love to spend time with our children.
The day before yesterday I went out and saw our new neighbors in front of their house, so I went over to introduce myself. They are Dennis and Juanita. Imagine our surprise when up on their roof was a big GOOSE just honking away. They said that explained why they could hear honking in their bedroom the night before.
I will send a picture tomorrow. Hope they turn out.
Mary
Dick's knee is starting to cause pain in his foot and calf. Jaran, the physical therapist, decided to just give us the set of exercises for Dick to do each day both now and when his knee is better so we do not have to go back.
Dr. Sharon gave us a knee brace to put on his leg and suggested warmth. I will have to get up the heating pad.
After all the appointments we went to the bank, the vet, Walgreens and shopping. Whew.
This is Dick's birthday and we went to dinner together just us tonight. Tomorrow Jim and Michelle are taking us out before they go on their trip and on Friday, Dick and Brenda will be here and take us out so he is being feted properly and I get to ride on his coattails.
We always love to spend time with our children.
The day before yesterday I went out and saw our new neighbors in front of their house, so I went over to introduce myself. They are Dennis and Juanita. Imagine our surprise when up on their roof was a big GOOSE just honking away. They said that explained why they could hear honking in their bedroom the night before.
I will send a picture tomorrow. Hope they turn out.
Mary
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Dick discovered that there was a high temperature today of 79. Wow. It was warm and really nice to be out and about - and I was.
Started the day with Chelsea's walk, of course. The birds were really singing and happy so we were too.
Then I puttered around putting things away and doing a few odd chores until it was time for us BOTH to go to the dentist. We have the same dentist now and though Dick only goes twice a year and I go three times we will be on occasion to go at the same time. We both got our teeth cleaned and we were both told that we were doing good, though Dick does have a small cavity.
I called Phil Kalchthaler, our Tall Grass Association VP with questions on the information that came around for us to review prior to the meeting a week from Saturday. He was very helpful. I have known Phil for years and have always found him fair and concerned. He suggested that I email him with my concerns prior to the meeting so they can be touched on.
That is a really good idea as I will have to leave before the meeting is over in order to join up with my morel mushroom hunting class that morning.
We had grilled cheese and ham on hard rolls for lunch. Hard rolls REALLY taste good. I feel sorry for you people who live outside of Sheboygan County and cannot get them.
At 2PM I went to see my friend Debbie Brown who is working at Plymouth Professional Massage Therapy and Wellness Spa for my very first massage. I have known Debbie for years, long before she trained for this and another friend told me that she is wonderful. I have no other experience to base it on but cannot complain. She did a great job and my body feels far less pain than I did this morning. So it worked. This same site teaches yoga. I may try that too. But I think I must first have Dr. Murthy check to be sure that I am not damaged in my shoulder.
A quiet evening. I gathered everything up for the turkey hunt tomorrow and loaded most of it into the car. Kenny answered my call and we will be meeting out there at 10 to 5 unless it is raining in which case we will meet at daybreak. The rain that is supposed to come tonight, is supposed to leave in the morning so I hope that it has passed by before we get there.
Tomorrow is Dick's birthday. I will be hunting in the morning but am coming back before noon so that we can go to his physical therapy and to see Dr. Sharon about his knee. Then we are going to dinner to celebrate the big day.
He doesn't know it but I got him a present. We don't do that but I found a tshirt that I thought was perfect for him and IN his size. It says Real Men Love Cats with big yellow cat eyes staring at you.
I am looking forward to our own little party.
Love
Mary
Started the day with Chelsea's walk, of course. The birds were really singing and happy so we were too.
Then I puttered around putting things away and doing a few odd chores until it was time for us BOTH to go to the dentist. We have the same dentist now and though Dick only goes twice a year and I go three times we will be on occasion to go at the same time. We both got our teeth cleaned and we were both told that we were doing good, though Dick does have a small cavity.
I called Phil Kalchthaler, our Tall Grass Association VP with questions on the information that came around for us to review prior to the meeting a week from Saturday. He was very helpful. I have known Phil for years and have always found him fair and concerned. He suggested that I email him with my concerns prior to the meeting so they can be touched on.
That is a really good idea as I will have to leave before the meeting is over in order to join up with my morel mushroom hunting class that morning.
We had grilled cheese and ham on hard rolls for lunch. Hard rolls REALLY taste good. I feel sorry for you people who live outside of Sheboygan County and cannot get them.
At 2PM I went to see my friend Debbie Brown who is working at Plymouth Professional Massage Therapy and Wellness Spa for my very first massage. I have known Debbie for years, long before she trained for this and another friend told me that she is wonderful. I have no other experience to base it on but cannot complain. She did a great job and my body feels far less pain than I did this morning. So it worked. This same site teaches yoga. I may try that too. But I think I must first have Dr. Murthy check to be sure that I am not damaged in my shoulder.
A quiet evening. I gathered everything up for the turkey hunt tomorrow and loaded most of it into the car. Kenny answered my call and we will be meeting out there at 10 to 5 unless it is raining in which case we will meet at daybreak. The rain that is supposed to come tonight, is supposed to leave in the morning so I hope that it has passed by before we get there.
Tomorrow is Dick's birthday. I will be hunting in the morning but am coming back before noon so that we can go to his physical therapy and to see Dr. Sharon about his knee. Then we are going to dinner to celebrate the big day.
He doesn't know it but I got him a present. We don't do that but I found a tshirt that I thought was perfect for him and IN his size. It says Real Men Love Cats with big yellow cat eyes staring at you.
I am looking forward to our own little party.
Love
Mary
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