Saturday, the third day of 2009. Chelsea woke me up a bit after 4AM. I took her out and went back to bed until 6AM. The usual. I guess Chelsea is going to be doing this from now on. She sleeps from 9PM to 3 or 4AM then really has to go out. This getting old stuff is hard on doggies too.
I did some wash, fixed breakfast and did the next step on my loaf of bread before going ove to the Center at 9AM to spend some time with Dick. Bob Fenner stopped by as he walked by after visiting his Dad and a couple of other patients. His wife Jackie is probably our favorite nurse. Bob is a friend of Jeff. His Dad was at Mom and Dad's wedding in 1939. Isn't it a wonderful world. Bob Sr. has trouble remembering things that happen how but his face always lights up when I talk to him and he realizes who my parents are.
I came home at about 10:30 to finish baking the bread and to prepare the dinner I planned to take over to Dick. I made homemake scalloped potatoes, ham and a nice salad. They very seldom get salads at the Center. The Center brought us drinks and dessert so we did allright.
After lunch, I drove to the Motorville VW dealer in Sheboygan to look at the Routan and to check out room and height from the ground of the seats in a sedan.
The trip was fun. I told you that Bart and Barb gave me a GPS for Christmas. Well --- today, I finally took the time to set it up. The first adventure was to have it instuct me to the Center at noon. It was such fun. After lunch, I plugged in the address of Motorville VW and it instructed me perfectly. What is really fun, is if you go differently than the unit tells you, verbally mind you, it will tell you that it is recalculating and start from there.
Anyway, I looked at the Routan which is basically the Town and Country and about the same price. Then Al showed me the Passat, the VW sedan. The seat is 21 inches fromt he ground (doable) and there is at least 21 inches of room to get into the car. Al is a big man and fit just fine. I mentioned that I will have to put the wheelchair in the car and take it out and the trunk of a sedan requires quite a bit of lifting from the trunk well. He suggested the Passat Wagon, which does not have such a deep area and the lip it very short. Might work.
Anyway, now we have to decide. What do we want. We need to figure the trade in on the Explorer, do we want new, do we want the van, or a sedan/or/station wagon. Al said that I can drive a wagon down for Dick to try and Dick from AJ Conversions will bring a van with the elevator seat for him to try too.
All is moot until Dr. Moreno says that the foot is healing. SO think of us on Tuesday. That is the big unveiling.
When I talked to Bret yesterday, he said that with any luck at all, he is planning on coming here for a visit in August. I surely hope so. It has been way too long again. If he comes, I will plan a nice get together and meal for everybody. Won't that be fun.
I went to church at 4PM Fr. Van Beeck gave a good sermon . He mentioned something that I had never noticed befor, probably should have. If you talk the word God and add one letter, the O, you spell good. If you take the word evil and add one letter, the D, you spell Devil.
Weird. Huh.
Mary
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Friday, January 02, 2009
A quiet cold day. I spent most of it at home. I had lots of trouble getting to sleep last night for some reason. Chelsea got me up at 3:30AM again. I took her out and went back to bed with the door closed as I have been doing. It was 6:30AM before I woke up again. Then I took a nap at about 9 so0 I felt pretty good the rest of the day.
It was nice being home. I cleaned a bit, and cooked a bit and sewed a bit. Critters like it when I am here. They will be doubly glad when Dick is here.
I had to go out at about 2PM to take Chelsea for her blood test. On our way back home, we stopped in to see Dick and he shared pretzels with her. She was glad to see him and glad to get home again too.
I fixed scalloped potatoes for supper and will bring them and ham to Dick tomorrow night for our dinner.
Today, on the way home the radio was interviewing Santas. Actually the Santas are fighting which is rather silly if you ask me. These are guys that have natural white beards and are older and make Santa-ing a year round profession. One of them said that all year round children would recognize him as Santa so he always carried a bag of small toys for them. That was nice.
But that is not what I wanted to talk about. The year I had to come home shortly after Christmas the year my brother Matt died, Uncle Jim Deeley, my Dad's brother, offered to drive me and the boys to the airport. He, as all the Deeley men, had a full head of hair and had grown a full beard which was a wonderful white. When he came in, my Bret, just over 3 years old, ran up to him and said "Who are you?" Jim swept Bret up into his arms and in a booming voice said, "I'm Santa Claus." Bret laughed in delight. I should ask him if he remembers that. Jim was good to me when I needed him. I was good to him too.
I heard news that the son of some very good friends died in the past couple of days. This is from my jeeping days. Please say some prayers for the soul of Dana and extra for his brother and sisters. They have suffered much loss this past year and need comfort.
Dick and I have so many decisions and so many things to do in the next month. We can still use the prayers too.
Bret called this evening. He is out at the river for a short New Year Vacation and is doing a lot of jeeping with his friends. He sounds relaxed and happy. He said he is going to try to get back here for a visit in August. He would like to go to a festival or a Brat Days or some thing. He says they don't have anything like that in So. California. Probably because of all the Disneylands and Knotts Berry Farms. It is a loss though . Those festivals and picnics are SO much fun.
Til tomorrow
God love you
Mary
It was nice being home. I cleaned a bit, and cooked a bit and sewed a bit. Critters like it when I am here. They will be doubly glad when Dick is here.
I had to go out at about 2PM to take Chelsea for her blood test. On our way back home, we stopped in to see Dick and he shared pretzels with her. She was glad to see him and glad to get home again too.
I fixed scalloped potatoes for supper and will bring them and ham to Dick tomorrow night for our dinner.
Today, on the way home the radio was interviewing Santas. Actually the Santas are fighting which is rather silly if you ask me. These are guys that have natural white beards and are older and make Santa-ing a year round profession. One of them said that all year round children would recognize him as Santa so he always carried a bag of small toys for them. That was nice.
But that is not what I wanted to talk about. The year I had to come home shortly after Christmas the year my brother Matt died, Uncle Jim Deeley, my Dad's brother, offered to drive me and the boys to the airport. He, as all the Deeley men, had a full head of hair and had grown a full beard which was a wonderful white. When he came in, my Bret, just over 3 years old, ran up to him and said "Who are you?" Jim swept Bret up into his arms and in a booming voice said, "I'm Santa Claus." Bret laughed in delight. I should ask him if he remembers that. Jim was good to me when I needed him. I was good to him too.
I heard news that the son of some very good friends died in the past couple of days. This is from my jeeping days. Please say some prayers for the soul of Dana and extra for his brother and sisters. They have suffered much loss this past year and need comfort.
Dick and I have so many decisions and so many things to do in the next month. We can still use the prayers too.
Bret called this evening. He is out at the river for a short New Year Vacation and is doing a lot of jeeping with his friends. He sounds relaxed and happy. He said he is going to try to get back here for a visit in August. He would like to go to a festival or a Brat Days or some thing. He says they don't have anything like that in So. California. Probably because of all the Disneylands and Knotts Berry Farms. It is a loss though . Those festivals and picnics are SO much fun.
Til tomorrow
God love you
Mary
Thursday, January 01, 2009
The first day of 2009 passed quite pleasantly. Critters and I spent a nice couple of hours from the time I woke up until 9AM when I went over to see Dick at the center.
We visited until 10:30AM. Then I had to leave so I could pick up some stuff for Mom, go home and walk Chelsea, pick up Chinese food and to to Mother's for lunch. It was still cold, never got over 20 degrees. Actually that is a big improvement over 4 so I guess we should be happy.
Mom and I enjoyed out lunch and our visit. Aunt Kathleen called while I was there. She and Uncle Bob are in Alabama and enjoying lovely weather.
I came home at about 2PM and took a nap. I am really tired again and Dick and I decided that I will stay home tomorrow, except for taking Chelsea for her blood test. A day at home not doing much will be a big help.
Words for the first day of 2009, or any year.
T.S. Eliot said, "For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning."
This is an end and a beginning. I am hoping that our health problems are solving and that Dick will be home SO SO soon.
Love
Mary
We visited until 10:30AM. Then I had to leave so I could pick up some stuff for Mom, go home and walk Chelsea, pick up Chinese food and to to Mother's for lunch. It was still cold, never got over 20 degrees. Actually that is a big improvement over 4 so I guess we should be happy.
Mom and I enjoyed out lunch and our visit. Aunt Kathleen called while I was there. She and Uncle Bob are in Alabama and enjoying lovely weather.
I came home at about 2PM and took a nap. I am really tired again and Dick and I decided that I will stay home tomorrow, except for taking Chelsea for her blood test. A day at home not doing much will be a big help.
Words for the first day of 2009, or any year.
T.S. Eliot said, "For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning."
This is an end and a beginning. I am hoping that our health problems are solving and that Dick will be home SO SO soon.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Frigid air has returned to Wisconsin. I woke up to 10 degrees at 4AM. Took Chelsea out. Went back to bed until 6AM to find that the temperature had dropped to 4Degrees. Our high was 13.
I put the heater back on in the garage to keep it from getting too cold.
I stayed home until noon today. Our wonderful neighbor, Harold Wendorf, prepared some wood pieces for the spaces where the old hinges were on the door. I am so grateful for the kindness of people. Harold is 88 years old and has a shop in his basement where he likes to do woodwork. After he was done, I went over to see his and Helen's home. They have basically our floor plan flipped. They have only one bathroom upstairs though and it is, much bigger as it takes the space of both of ours. I kind of wish we had that, It would make Dick's moving around much easier.
But we will figure it out.
The Amputee Suppor Group met today out at Rocky Knoll. There were 10 of us there. We had a nice time. Played bingo. I won a gift cetificate for $10 from Kmart. That was nice. We meet the forth Wednesday of every month. I hope Dick can come next month. It will depend on when we get him home and what the schedule turns out to be. I will encourage him to go though.
Got home on time to get ready for church at 4PM. New Year's Day is a holyday of obligation. I did not want to go tomorrow. I will be picking up Chinese food and going to Mother's for a New Year's lunch. We are both looking forward to that. I plan on having supper with Dick. I may bring something.
After Mass, ( I sat with my friend Ceil and then Greg and Kathy Ziegler sat in back of me. I was double glad to see the Widder's, friends from Blessed Trinity at this Mass too.) I went home, fed the critters, gathered something for my dinner and a bottle of champagne and went over to Plymouth Center for a meal with my sweetheart. We followed it up with a glass of champagne and a piece of the fruitcake that Richard and Brenda had given us for Chrismas. BOY is that EVER good fruitcake.
Now I am home again. Critters are very happy and we will bring in as much of the new year as we possibly can. I will probably go to bed pretty close to my normal time but will try to catch at least ONE celebration. We are pretty quiet New Year people anyway, but I sure miss having Dick here.
I changed all the calenders today. Seemed like a good time to do that while I was waiting around here in the morning with Harold.
A blessing for the New Year. From Numbers 6:24 -26
The Lord bless you and keep you!
The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!
Love
Mary
I put the heater back on in the garage to keep it from getting too cold.
I stayed home until noon today. Our wonderful neighbor, Harold Wendorf, prepared some wood pieces for the spaces where the old hinges were on the door. I am so grateful for the kindness of people. Harold is 88 years old and has a shop in his basement where he likes to do woodwork. After he was done, I went over to see his and Helen's home. They have basically our floor plan flipped. They have only one bathroom upstairs though and it is, much bigger as it takes the space of both of ours. I kind of wish we had that, It would make Dick's moving around much easier.
But we will figure it out.
The Amputee Suppor Group met today out at Rocky Knoll. There were 10 of us there. We had a nice time. Played bingo. I won a gift cetificate for $10 from Kmart. That was nice. We meet the forth Wednesday of every month. I hope Dick can come next month. It will depend on when we get him home and what the schedule turns out to be. I will encourage him to go though.
Got home on time to get ready for church at 4PM. New Year's Day is a holyday of obligation. I did not want to go tomorrow. I will be picking up Chinese food and going to Mother's for a New Year's lunch. We are both looking forward to that. I plan on having supper with Dick. I may bring something.
After Mass, ( I sat with my friend Ceil and then Greg and Kathy Ziegler sat in back of me. I was double glad to see the Widder's, friends from Blessed Trinity at this Mass too.) I went home, fed the critters, gathered something for my dinner and a bottle of champagne and went over to Plymouth Center for a meal with my sweetheart. We followed it up with a glass of champagne and a piece of the fruitcake that Richard and Brenda had given us for Chrismas. BOY is that EVER good fruitcake.
Now I am home again. Critters are very happy and we will bring in as much of the new year as we possibly can. I will probably go to bed pretty close to my normal time but will try to catch at least ONE celebration. We are pretty quiet New Year people anyway, but I sure miss having Dick here.
I changed all the calenders today. Seemed like a good time to do that while I was waiting around here in the morning with Harold.
A blessing for the New Year. From Numbers 6:24 -26
The Lord bless you and keep you!
The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!
Love
Mary
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
It was a rather mild day. Some wind but not much until about 3PM. Then the snow started falling. I had a haircut at 2:30. It was the first haircut by Jessica since she had her baby. She had pictures of her sweet Madalyn posted at her place. The baby is beautiful, of course. She has a full head of black hair.
Anyway, when I left there and headed to the store to go grocery shopping, it was snowing pretty good. When I got out of the grocery store, it was even worse. I stopped and got gas on the way home too. I figured that it was better to do that today since I was down to a quarter of a tank and it looked like the weather is not going to be so good. I figured I wanted a full tank with a holiday coming.
Dick and I were picked up by Custom Care at 8:30 this morning to go to see Dr. Moreno. All he did was take off the outer wrapping on his right foot. He said he is pleased - so far. He saw no seepage and there was no sign that the graft had slipped at all. We go back next Tuesday and he will take the bandages off and then we will know for sure. (I hope.)
I took dinner to Dick this noon. We had the rest of the manacotti and green beans. They were still as good as they were the first time. I was going to go back and bring a sandwich for supper BUT we decided that the snow was just too much. Whey go out in this weather. It could be dangerous and I have to keep brushing off the car.
Talking to Jessica about her baby, I was remembering when the boys were little. She is being told not to pick Madalyn up all the time because she will get spoiled. I told her not to worry about that. One month old babies need all the ove they can get.
When Bart was less than a month old, the neighbor boy , Mike, came running over one day and said that his sister was hurt. I told him to stay with Bart for a bit and went over there. Robin had gotten her finger caught in a door when her brother slammed it shut. It took the flesh off to the bone. Pretty scary. Robin's Mom was understandably hysterical and unable to function. SO, her husband, Jack, and I gathered up Robin and the tip of her little finger on ice and rushed off to the emergency ward. I knew that the neighbor in between our homes would be home soon and told Mike to gather her into the story as soon as she arrived.
Anyway Jack and I got to the emergency ward where the doctors were able to reattach the end of her finger. I was a mess, I was nursing and smelled, but figured that we were not there for me anyway.
When we got home, Robin's Mom was calmed down and the other neighbor was there. Bart was being a fussy budget. They had given him a bottle to try to settle him down but he just kept fussing. When I got there, I picked him up and he just sighed and went right to sleep.
Needless to say, I got teased a lot about my spoiled baby. Bart was ALWAYS clingy as a baby though. Being a Mom was one of my favorite things in this life.
Love
Mary
Anyway, when I left there and headed to the store to go grocery shopping, it was snowing pretty good. When I got out of the grocery store, it was even worse. I stopped and got gas on the way home too. I figured that it was better to do that today since I was down to a quarter of a tank and it looked like the weather is not going to be so good. I figured I wanted a full tank with a holiday coming.
Dick and I were picked up by Custom Care at 8:30 this morning to go to see Dr. Moreno. All he did was take off the outer wrapping on his right foot. He said he is pleased - so far. He saw no seepage and there was no sign that the graft had slipped at all. We go back next Tuesday and he will take the bandages off and then we will know for sure. (I hope.)
I took dinner to Dick this noon. We had the rest of the manacotti and green beans. They were still as good as they were the first time. I was going to go back and bring a sandwich for supper BUT we decided that the snow was just too much. Whey go out in this weather. It could be dangerous and I have to keep brushing off the car.
Talking to Jessica about her baby, I was remembering when the boys were little. She is being told not to pick Madalyn up all the time because she will get spoiled. I told her not to worry about that. One month old babies need all the ove they can get.
When Bart was less than a month old, the neighbor boy , Mike, came running over one day and said that his sister was hurt. I told him to stay with Bart for a bit and went over there. Robin had gotten her finger caught in a door when her brother slammed it shut. It took the flesh off to the bone. Pretty scary. Robin's Mom was understandably hysterical and unable to function. SO, her husband, Jack, and I gathered up Robin and the tip of her little finger on ice and rushed off to the emergency ward. I knew that the neighbor in between our homes would be home soon and told Mike to gather her into the story as soon as she arrived.
Anyway Jack and I got to the emergency ward where the doctors were able to reattach the end of her finger. I was a mess, I was nursing and smelled, but figured that we were not there for me anyway.
When we got home, Robin's Mom was calmed down and the other neighbor was there. Bart was being a fussy budget. They had given him a bottle to try to settle him down but he just kept fussing. When I got there, I picked him up and he just sighed and went right to sleep.
Needless to say, I got teased a lot about my spoiled baby. Bart was ALWAYS clingy as a baby though. Being a Mom was one of my favorite things in this life.
Love
Mary
Monday, December 29, 2008
I had to be at the Center at 8:45 AM. Tim from Custom Care picked us up at 9AM for his appointment at the Plymouth Clinic with Dr. Sharon. The appointment went very will. He is pleased with all of Dick's tests and his general condition. He understands that we need to get him home by the end of January.
Tomorrow, he has an appointment with Dr. Moreno in Sheboygan. That appointment is also at 9:15 AM so Tim will pick us up at 8:30AM so we get there on time. Pray hard that the grafts are taking. We are on pins and needles.
When I got home at 10:30, I called Plymouth Plumbing and Heating about the hot water heater. Jack told me that Gary would be there as soon as he finished installing a boiler somewhere. He got to our house shortly after 1PM. They are very efficient. He was all done installing AND hauling out the old one by 2:30PM so I was able to go over to Wolf's Jeep and Chrysler to look at some Town and Countries to see what is out there and start getting prices and timing in our heads. Dave will call me by Monday with the trade in value on the Explorer which is the next piece in the puzzle so that we can make some decisions. I also need to go to a VW dealer and look at their Routan which is also supposed to be suitable for installing the elevator passenger seat.
I stopped at the Center to tell Dick what I had found out, then came home for supper before going back to help Dick with the things that I do for him every day. The most important, I think, is massaging the stump. We need to get that toughened up and we need to be sure that the circulation stays good.
So a busy day and I am really really tired.
It seems impossible that there are only two days left in 2008. When I was little, 2000 seemed SO far away and 6o seemed SO old. Times have changed. 60 no longer seems so old to me.
Enjoy your Tuesday. I will up date you on what Dr. Moreno says tomorrow evening.
Love
Mary
Tomorrow, he has an appointment with Dr. Moreno in Sheboygan. That appointment is also at 9:15 AM so Tim will pick us up at 8:30AM so we get there on time. Pray hard that the grafts are taking. We are on pins and needles.
When I got home at 10:30, I called Plymouth Plumbing and Heating about the hot water heater. Jack told me that Gary would be there as soon as he finished installing a boiler somewhere. He got to our house shortly after 1PM. They are very efficient. He was all done installing AND hauling out the old one by 2:30PM so I was able to go over to Wolf's Jeep and Chrysler to look at some Town and Countries to see what is out there and start getting prices and timing in our heads. Dave will call me by Monday with the trade in value on the Explorer which is the next piece in the puzzle so that we can make some decisions. I also need to go to a VW dealer and look at their Routan which is also supposed to be suitable for installing the elevator passenger seat.
I stopped at the Center to tell Dick what I had found out, then came home for supper before going back to help Dick with the things that I do for him every day. The most important, I think, is massaging the stump. We need to get that toughened up and we need to be sure that the circulation stays good.
So a busy day and I am really really tired.
It seems impossible that there are only two days left in 2008. When I was little, 2000 seemed SO far away and 6o seemed SO old. Times have changed. 60 no longer seems so old to me.
Enjoy your Tuesday. I will up date you on what Dr. Moreno says tomorrow evening.
Love
Mary
Sunday, December 28, 2008
It was raining lightly when we got up this morning. And it had snowed. The temperature was 28. The fog was gone but it was cloudy.
I stayed home snug and warm until 11:30 when I joined Dick at the Center to have lunch with him. I spent the morning cutting out squares for a quilt and cleaning the bathrooms and kitchen floor.
We had a nice lunch of tips on noodles, veggies and a delicious chocolate dessert. After lunch, I went to Walmart to add minutes to Dick's phone. This time I believe we have enough to get him to the end of January. That is when we are aiming on getting him home. Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise.
I got his minutes and found a pair of jeans to replace one of the two that I had to cut up for sewing. When one's bottom is showing through, it is time to replace the jeans - at least if you are my age.
Mom and I had a lovely visit and shared a cup of tea. Usually Dick and I have her over on New Year's Day for dinner. But I am not going to bother with Dick not home. So we decided that I will pick up Chinese food and take it over to her house and we will share that. Sounds like fun, doesn't it?
Dick and I will celebrate New Year's Eve together.
When I got home, I updated Dick's phone and then took him the phone and some Oragel. Chelsea went with me. She was excited but then when she gets there, immediately wants to come home again.
This has been a quiet evening. Roxie has been quite the cuddly kitty. Very insistent on sitting on my lap. She finally got tired of my wiggling and went somewhere else.
Until tomorrow.
Love
Mary
I stayed home snug and warm until 11:30 when I joined Dick at the Center to have lunch with him. I spent the morning cutting out squares for a quilt and cleaning the bathrooms and kitchen floor.
We had a nice lunch of tips on noodles, veggies and a delicious chocolate dessert. After lunch, I went to Walmart to add minutes to Dick's phone. This time I believe we have enough to get him to the end of January. That is when we are aiming on getting him home. Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise.
I got his minutes and found a pair of jeans to replace one of the two that I had to cut up for sewing. When one's bottom is showing through, it is time to replace the jeans - at least if you are my age.
Mom and I had a lovely visit and shared a cup of tea. Usually Dick and I have her over on New Year's Day for dinner. But I am not going to bother with Dick not home. So we decided that I will pick up Chinese food and take it over to her house and we will share that. Sounds like fun, doesn't it?
Dick and I will celebrate New Year's Eve together.
When I got home, I updated Dick's phone and then took him the phone and some Oragel. Chelsea went with me. She was excited but then when she gets there, immediately wants to come home again.
This has been a quiet evening. Roxie has been quite the cuddly kitty. Very insistent on sitting on my lap. She finally got tired of my wiggling and went somewhere else.
Until tomorrow.
Love
Mary
Saturday, December 27, 2008
I woke up to 48 degree temperatures this morning. It was misting a bit too but never really rained. Snowdrifts have melted quite a bit and everything is just dripping. Now, with our luck, it will start raining and snowing and then freeze.
I took breakfast over to Dick this morning. We had the leftover Strata and fruit that I had prepared for Richard and Brenda. He liked it a lot and it was a good morning to do this as they were being served a hard boiled egg with bacon for the Center's breakfast.
I finally got a hold of Plymouth Plumbing and they sent a man over to check the water heater. I met him at 10 AM. The water heater is failing. This was installed in May of 2000 and he said the national average for water heaters is 8 years. We go an extra 6 months. They will come Monday morning. I can call them as soon as we are back from Dick's doctor appointment with Dr. Sharon.
I took a nap next. I was really tired. Not for lack of sleep, I don't think. I slept really well last night.
Dave from Wolf's Chrysler suggested that we reschedule the appointment I had with him to look at van's to next week as the fog was really heavy on the highway and he felt it was dangerous. Probably not the best time to be looking at cars out in that lot anyway. So I spent the afternoon cleaning, computering AND cutting out squares for two quilts that I need them for.
Bart and Barb called. I received their present yesterday. The overnight delivery did not work, probably because of the weather. Bart remembered how much Barb and I enjoyed his GPS while we were driving around in Dallas so they got me one. I can hardly wait to try it. I figure I will set it up today and/or tomorrow and then use it driving locally so I get used to it. What a fun toy.
I went to the 4PM Mass. Saw lots of friends after Mass who are praying for Dick and are concerned, but I still managed to get home, feed the critters and get to the Plymouth Center with my chili to have supper with Dick. I got there at 5:20. He was already in the dining room and served, but some of the others were already being served so it was OK. They were having chili too.
Now I am home for the night and perhaps maybe for tomorrow too, if the weather gets bad. Otherwise, I will have a meal with Dick and go spend an hour or so with Mom as I will not see her on Monday.
Roxie has positioned herself on the desk like the old days. I have the lamp there and she likes the warmth and being close to me. Makes me feel good.
Love
Mary
Just for fun:
Isn't this the truth!
Whatever you give a woman, she will make greater.
If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby.
If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.
If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.
If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.
She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.
So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit.
I took breakfast over to Dick this morning. We had the leftover Strata and fruit that I had prepared for Richard and Brenda. He liked it a lot and it was a good morning to do this as they were being served a hard boiled egg with bacon for the Center's breakfast.
I finally got a hold of Plymouth Plumbing and they sent a man over to check the water heater. I met him at 10 AM. The water heater is failing. This was installed in May of 2000 and he said the national average for water heaters is 8 years. We go an extra 6 months. They will come Monday morning. I can call them as soon as we are back from Dick's doctor appointment with Dr. Sharon.
I took a nap next. I was really tired. Not for lack of sleep, I don't think. I slept really well last night.
Dave from Wolf's Chrysler suggested that we reschedule the appointment I had with him to look at van's to next week as the fog was really heavy on the highway and he felt it was dangerous. Probably not the best time to be looking at cars out in that lot anyway. So I spent the afternoon cleaning, computering AND cutting out squares for two quilts that I need them for.
Bart and Barb called. I received their present yesterday. The overnight delivery did not work, probably because of the weather. Bart remembered how much Barb and I enjoyed his GPS while we were driving around in Dallas so they got me one. I can hardly wait to try it. I figure I will set it up today and/or tomorrow and then use it driving locally so I get used to it. What a fun toy.
I went to the 4PM Mass. Saw lots of friends after Mass who are praying for Dick and are concerned, but I still managed to get home, feed the critters and get to the Plymouth Center with my chili to have supper with Dick. I got there at 5:20. He was already in the dining room and served, but some of the others were already being served so it was OK. They were having chili too.
Now I am home for the night and perhaps maybe for tomorrow too, if the weather gets bad. Otherwise, I will have a meal with Dick and go spend an hour or so with Mom as I will not see her on Monday.
Roxie has positioned herself on the desk like the old days. I have the lamp there and she likes the warmth and being close to me. Makes me feel good.
Love
Mary
Just for fun:
Isn't this the truth!
Whatever you give a woman, she will make greater.
If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby.
If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.
If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.
If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.
She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.
So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit.
Friday, December 26, 2008
It got too late to post last night. Hope no one missed me but on the other hand hope maybe someone did. It is nice to be noticed.
Yesterday was a superfragilistic day. I set off to see Dick for a good morning HI, at about 9AM. Then headed over to Sheboygan Falls to visit with Mother and take her Christmas present and her stollen to her. We had a nice visit. She is kind of weary and tired but looks good. Randy, Donna, Erin and Jessica arrived shortly before I had to leave so I got to visit with them too. Donna, Erin, Jessie and I all discovered that we are tea drinkers as we looked over all of the neat teas that Mom received for Christmas. Someday the five of us should have a tea party.
I left there and came home to check the critters. Jim and Michelle had been there and dropped off the dinner goodies. My counter and refrigerator were full of the bounty. They "rearrived" shortly after I go home. They had gone over to visit with Dick. Bret called as I was preparing Dick's lunch. We had a nice visit and he liked his present. He sounds good and will be out at the River over New Years. He was spending Christmas with Mary and her family at his home.
Dick and I visited until 2PM then I came home as I figured that Richard and Brenda and Bobbie and Bill would be arriving soon. I was right. Bart had called also. I called back and had a nice visit with Barb, Bart and Marlise, Barb's Mom.
We unwrapped presents at about 3PM (except for mine, it had been decided that Dick and I would unwrap ALL of ours while we had dessert at the Center when we all gathered with Dick.
It is such fun watching people open presents. Everybody seemed very pleased with their gifts. That made me feel good.
Bobbie and Bill took appetizers over to Dick at 4 then had a SUPER dinner. Michelle and Jim prepared a wonderful array of appetizers, then followed with Spinach/Mushroom Manacotti, green bean casserole and a delicious salad.
When we finished Richard and Brenda took Dick his dinner and we all cleaned up and loaded up the presents and dessert and joined them.
The next two hours were spent together. Dick and I unwrapped our presents and did we ever get a lot of thoughtful, fun and beautiful gifts. Everybody was so generous and caring. Especially nice, Bobbie and Bill donated to Fr. Mike's Sarnelli House in my name. I was thrilled.
After pie with whipped cream and mulled wine and samples of my homemade Grand Marnier we closed down for the night. Jim and Michelle headed home first as they had to get back to Oshkosh and Bootsie. Bobbie and Bill went next. After Dick was all settled, Richard and Brenda and I came back here. Richard did a lot of cleaning up and fixing on my computer which is now working much faster and seems to be working cleaner. I am SO grateful. I have so many things that I depend on that computer for.
Dick is now in the Modern Hep age. Richard and Brenda got him an IPOD. Richard loaded it with LOTS of old movies and radio shows for him.
Anyway I did not get to bed until after 10 and Richard was still working on the computer. We had a glass of wine AND dried the nice decaf tea that Brenda had bought for me. It is a nice Irish Breakfast tea.
This morning, I baked a nice egg strata and fixes a pear/orange bowl for our breakfast. There is enough left that I am taking breakfast to Dick tomorrow morning.
Richard and Brenda left shortly after 11AM. I took lunch over and ate with Dick in the dining room. Then I came home because I had to wait for the Culligan Man. I don't know if I mentioned it but there was a leak of Something in my basement. It looked like it was under the Softener unit but when he came it appears to be under the water heater. Since he got here after 4PM, I left a message at Plymouth Heating and Plumbing. They have an emergency number but apparantly don't check it often because it is after 8PM and I have not heard yet.
I had supper with Dick too. We discussed the car situation more. I am going to Wolf's Auto tomorrow to check out a couple of cars that can be converted for easy access.
Now it is after 8PM. I am home and glad to be here. Critters are glad I am hear too.
I received this the other day. I wished a Merry Christmas to everyone that I met. Did you? Happy holidays could actually be all right but not with the avoidance it implys.
This isn't for any religious reason, they simply have not been able to find Three Wise Men in the Nation's capitol, nor could they find a virgin.
P.S. There was no problem, however, finding enough asses to fill the stable.
God love you all
Mary
Yesterday was a superfragilistic day. I set off to see Dick for a good morning HI, at about 9AM. Then headed over to Sheboygan Falls to visit with Mother and take her Christmas present and her stollen to her. We had a nice visit. She is kind of weary and tired but looks good. Randy, Donna, Erin and Jessica arrived shortly before I had to leave so I got to visit with them too. Donna, Erin, Jessie and I all discovered that we are tea drinkers as we looked over all of the neat teas that Mom received for Christmas. Someday the five of us should have a tea party.
I left there and came home to check the critters. Jim and Michelle had been there and dropped off the dinner goodies. My counter and refrigerator were full of the bounty. They "rearrived" shortly after I go home. They had gone over to visit with Dick. Bret called as I was preparing Dick's lunch. We had a nice visit and he liked his present. He sounds good and will be out at the River over New Years. He was spending Christmas with Mary and her family at his home.
Dick and I visited until 2PM then I came home as I figured that Richard and Brenda and Bobbie and Bill would be arriving soon. I was right. Bart had called also. I called back and had a nice visit with Barb, Bart and Marlise, Barb's Mom.
We unwrapped presents at about 3PM (except for mine, it had been decided that Dick and I would unwrap ALL of ours while we had dessert at the Center when we all gathered with Dick.
It is such fun watching people open presents. Everybody seemed very pleased with their gifts. That made me feel good.
Bobbie and Bill took appetizers over to Dick at 4 then had a SUPER dinner. Michelle and Jim prepared a wonderful array of appetizers, then followed with Spinach/Mushroom Manacotti, green bean casserole and a delicious salad.
When we finished Richard and Brenda took Dick his dinner and we all cleaned up and loaded up the presents and dessert and joined them.
The next two hours were spent together. Dick and I unwrapped our presents and did we ever get a lot of thoughtful, fun and beautiful gifts. Everybody was so generous and caring. Especially nice, Bobbie and Bill donated to Fr. Mike's Sarnelli House in my name. I was thrilled.
After pie with whipped cream and mulled wine and samples of my homemade Grand Marnier we closed down for the night. Jim and Michelle headed home first as they had to get back to Oshkosh and Bootsie. Bobbie and Bill went next. After Dick was all settled, Richard and Brenda and I came back here. Richard did a lot of cleaning up and fixing on my computer which is now working much faster and seems to be working cleaner. I am SO grateful. I have so many things that I depend on that computer for.
Dick is now in the Modern Hep age. Richard and Brenda got him an IPOD. Richard loaded it with LOTS of old movies and radio shows for him.
Anyway I did not get to bed until after 10 and Richard was still working on the computer. We had a glass of wine AND dried the nice decaf tea that Brenda had bought for me. It is a nice Irish Breakfast tea.
This morning, I baked a nice egg strata and fixes a pear/orange bowl for our breakfast. There is enough left that I am taking breakfast to Dick tomorrow morning.
Richard and Brenda left shortly after 11AM. I took lunch over and ate with Dick in the dining room. Then I came home because I had to wait for the Culligan Man. I don't know if I mentioned it but there was a leak of Something in my basement. It looked like it was under the Softener unit but when he came it appears to be under the water heater. Since he got here after 4PM, I left a message at Plymouth Heating and Plumbing. They have an emergency number but apparantly don't check it often because it is after 8PM and I have not heard yet.
I had supper with Dick too. We discussed the car situation more. I am going to Wolf's Auto tomorrow to check out a couple of cars that can be converted for easy access.
Now it is after 8PM. I am home and glad to be here. Critters are glad I am hear too.
I received this the other day. I wished a Merry Christmas to everyone that I met. Did you? Happy holidays could actually be all right but not with the avoidance it implys.
Sad Christmas News From
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.
The Supreme Court has ruled that there cannot be a Nativity Scene in the US capital this Christmas season.
This isn't for any religious reason, they simply have not been able to find Three Wise Men in the Nation's capitol, nor could they find a virgin.
P.S. There was no problem, however, finding enough asses to fill the stable.
God love you all
Mary
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Another busy day. I went grocery shopping this morning in the snow. I was beginning to think it was going to pass us by but no such luck. I went over to spend the morning with Dick after the groceries were put away.
They had the Center's Christmas party at 10AM so I went with him. Merry knew better than to give Dick the red and green beads to wear, so I got them. It was fun. Santa came with gifts for all the residents and dis he EVER bring nice gifts. Dick to two new crossword puzzle books and three nice new shirts. Wow, were we impressed.
Then I went home because it was snowing pretty good and getting slippery. I vacuumed a bit and watered the plants and tidyed up a bit and waited for the snow to stop. Miracle of miracles, it did and I was able to get to the 4PM Mass and then got back to the Center to have supper with Dick. They were serving soup and grilled cheese sandwich with fruit and a Christmas Cookie. One of the nurses said that their suppers aren't really worth the $5 they cost, but as I told them. Dick is worth it.
I brought our Christmas stockings and one present for us to unwrap tonight. I brought one from Bret that was kind of torn and we could see part of it anyway. It is a tea for two set, with a pot, two cups and two kinds of tea. Really nice. I can hardly wait for Mom to come over to share it with me.
I left for home at a little before 7PM. It is really slippery out there. I hope it is better tomorrow because I need to get to Sheboygan Falls to see Mother and take her the stollen and her present. I couldn't go Monday because of the weather and today was bad again. Tomorrow is the big day.
Christmas. Do you know the story of the Polar Express. The author says that the silver bell that Santa gave to the boy could only be heard by the heart of a child. They boy and his sister were the only ones who could hear it that first Christmas morning. Then the boy says that all of his friends could hear the bell but as the years went by they all lost the ability to hear it.
The Capucian priest we had say Mass for us tonight also talked about the ablility to be a child. He said that we all need to hang onto the freedom of a child. After all Jesus came to bring us that freedom. The freedom to be us and to belong to God.
Happy Christmas.
Love
Mary
They had the Center's Christmas party at 10AM so I went with him. Merry knew better than to give Dick the red and green beads to wear, so I got them. It was fun. Santa came with gifts for all the residents and dis he EVER bring nice gifts. Dick to two new crossword puzzle books and three nice new shirts. Wow, were we impressed.
Then I went home because it was snowing pretty good and getting slippery. I vacuumed a bit and watered the plants and tidyed up a bit and waited for the snow to stop. Miracle of miracles, it did and I was able to get to the 4PM Mass and then got back to the Center to have supper with Dick. They were serving soup and grilled cheese sandwich with fruit and a Christmas Cookie. One of the nurses said that their suppers aren't really worth the $5 they cost, but as I told them. Dick is worth it.
I brought our Christmas stockings and one present for us to unwrap tonight. I brought one from Bret that was kind of torn and we could see part of it anyway. It is a tea for two set, with a pot, two cups and two kinds of tea. Really nice. I can hardly wait for Mom to come over to share it with me.
I left for home at a little before 7PM. It is really slippery out there. I hope it is better tomorrow because I need to get to Sheboygan Falls to see Mother and take her the stollen and her present. I couldn't go Monday because of the weather and today was bad again. Tomorrow is the big day.
Christmas. Do you know the story of the Polar Express. The author says that the silver bell that Santa gave to the boy could only be heard by the heart of a child. They boy and his sister were the only ones who could hear it that first Christmas morning. Then the boy says that all of his friends could hear the bell but as the years went by they all lost the ability to hear it.
The Capucian priest we had say Mass for us tonight also talked about the ablility to be a child. He said that we all need to hang onto the freedom of a child. After all Jesus came to bring us that freedom. The freedom to be us and to belong to God.
Happy Christmas.
Love
Mary
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Twas quite an exciting day.
I had my appointment for my reflexology treatment at 8:00AM at Joan Kramer's home. She lives right off of Hwy 32 just this side of Howards Grove. It was snowing, BUT Mary decided to attempt it anyway and once I got out onto Hwy 23 it seemed silly to turn back. I saw on car in the median. It was on it's side but both passengers were on their feet and talking on their cel phones so I guess it was not too serious (except for righting the car and fixing it.) Whe I got to Joan's Richard was shoveling. I stopped to thank him for doing that "just for me." He got it. So I didn't feel goofy. Joan wondered what I was thinking coming in that weather but as I told her once I got out on the highway it was just as easy to keep going as to turn back.
So I had a wonderafully relaxing session. She does such a nice job and told me that from what she can tell, I AM doing the right things to take care of me. That is important if I intend to be able to take care of Dick.
When I left there I came home and took care of critters, fixed a quick sandwich and went over to the Center so we would be ready to leave when Tim came to take us to the Clinic. We got to Dr. Morales office at a bit before one and were the first patient after the lunch hour. Our friend Brian came specially for us. He was actually working at the hospital today, but came to assist Dr. Morales as Dorothy is on vacation. We always like seeing Brian. He is one of the best RNs I know and is a wound specialist.
Anyway, Dr. Morales had the graft material and had plenty to cover both wounds. Now Dick has to be non weight bearing for two weeks. Dr. Morales will look at the wound next Tuesday. It will take four weeks for complete healing. Then we will have to get special shoes made to keep the pressure when he walks where it is supposed to be.
Pray. The next two weeks are very crucial. We are really putting all of our cards on this.
I came home shortly after f0ur and just stayed. There is supposed to be more snow and it is really slippery out there. Three critters are glad that I am here anyway.
IF A FAT GUY GRABS YOU AND PUTS YOU IN A BAG, DON'T WORRY I TOLD SANTA I WANTED A GOOD FRIEND FOR CHRISTMAS!
LOve
Mary
I had my appointment for my reflexology treatment at 8:00AM at Joan Kramer's home. She lives right off of Hwy 32 just this side of Howards Grove. It was snowing, BUT Mary decided to attempt it anyway and once I got out onto Hwy 23 it seemed silly to turn back. I saw on car in the median. It was on it's side but both passengers were on their feet and talking on their cel phones so I guess it was not too serious (except for righting the car and fixing it.) Whe I got to Joan's Richard was shoveling. I stopped to thank him for doing that "just for me." He got it. So I didn't feel goofy. Joan wondered what I was thinking coming in that weather but as I told her once I got out on the highway it was just as easy to keep going as to turn back.
So I had a wonderafully relaxing session. She does such a nice job and told me that from what she can tell, I AM doing the right things to take care of me. That is important if I intend to be able to take care of Dick.
When I left there I came home and took care of critters, fixed a quick sandwich and went over to the Center so we would be ready to leave when Tim came to take us to the Clinic. We got to Dr. Morales office at a bit before one and were the first patient after the lunch hour. Our friend Brian came specially for us. He was actually working at the hospital today, but came to assist Dr. Morales as Dorothy is on vacation. We always like seeing Brian. He is one of the best RNs I know and is a wound specialist.
Anyway, Dr. Morales had the graft material and had plenty to cover both wounds. Now Dick has to be non weight bearing for two weeks. Dr. Morales will look at the wound next Tuesday. It will take four weeks for complete healing. Then we will have to get special shoes made to keep the pressure when he walks where it is supposed to be.
Pray. The next two weeks are very crucial. We are really putting all of our cards on this.
I came home shortly after f0ur and just stayed. There is supposed to be more snow and it is really slippery out there. Three critters are glad that I am here anyway.
IF A FAT GUY GRABS YOU AND PUTS YOU IN A BAG, DON'T WORRY I TOLD SANTA I WANTED A GOOD FRIEND FOR CHRISTMAS!
LOve
Mary
Monday, December 22, 2008
Another cold day. It was -2 when I got up. (That is not counting the time Chelsea woke me up at 2:30AM. I don't know what is happening to her these days. She is not at all consistent. This morning was the WORST. At least after I let her out and SHUT HER OUT OF THE BEDROOM, I get to sleep until 6AM every morning.) Actually it is -4 right now. Now it is supposed to be warmer tomorrow BUT there is going to be more snow. The lot is already full. Where will they put it. If Mark builds two units in that lot, I don't know WHERE they would go with it all.
I sent a bunch of email cards this morning, frosted the stollen and cut out some denim squares. I need them to make our denim bedspread bigger. Then at about noon, I went to the post office for stamps and then over to spend some time with Dick.
We had a talk with Carrie, the social worker. Dick's insurance status is changing and we needed to be made aware of that. I am also investigating getting a vehicle that will be suitable for Dick. He needs to be able to get into it so that we can transport him to doctor antherapy sessions and maybe EVEN out for some fun.
My friend, Joann Miley stopped by the Center hoping to see me with Dick. She is such a dear. She brought a basket with fruit and candy and a card for Dick. Dick called while she was there so I could talk to her. I DO have the best friends.
Got a message from Bobbie this morning. We WERE going to have a liver dinner tomorrow night, but she cracked a tooth and asked if we could put it off. (No kidding.) I hope she got to see her dentist. She can't chew on that side and it hurts to brush. That would be NO fun at a wonderful Christmas dinner and it will only get worse. Pray for a quick fix.
Tomorrow will be VERY busy. Dick gets the graft on the wound on his right foot. This is a very exciting thing. and should really promote speedy healing (we hope). So pray that all goes well.
I am very tired tonight and am just waiting until 9PM so that I can crawl into bed. I would go now except for Chelsea. If take her out at 9PM and she wakes me up as early as 2:30AM. Whatever would happen if I went to bed SOONER than that.
Bret's package arrived today. I opened it up and a lively white Bear wearing a green stocking cap and a green quilted vest popped right out of the tip. He is wearing a sign that says "You look like you need a hug. So I hugged him.
The unwrapped presents went under the tree. Only two more days til the festivities start.
Good night, Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite.
Love
Mary
I sent a bunch of email cards this morning, frosted the stollen and cut out some denim squares. I need them to make our denim bedspread bigger. Then at about noon, I went to the post office for stamps and then over to spend some time with Dick.
We had a talk with Carrie, the social worker. Dick's insurance status is changing and we needed to be made aware of that. I am also investigating getting a vehicle that will be suitable for Dick. He needs to be able to get into it so that we can transport him to doctor antherapy sessions and maybe EVEN out for some fun.
My friend, Joann Miley stopped by the Center hoping to see me with Dick. She is such a dear. She brought a basket with fruit and candy and a card for Dick. Dick called while she was there so I could talk to her. I DO have the best friends.
Got a message from Bobbie this morning. We WERE going to have a liver dinner tomorrow night, but she cracked a tooth and asked if we could put it off. (No kidding.) I hope she got to see her dentist. She can't chew on that side and it hurts to brush. That would be NO fun at a wonderful Christmas dinner and it will only get worse. Pray for a quick fix.
Tomorrow will be VERY busy. Dick gets the graft on the wound on his right foot. This is a very exciting thing. and should really promote speedy healing (we hope). So pray that all goes well.
I am very tired tonight and am just waiting until 9PM so that I can crawl into bed. I would go now except for Chelsea. If take her out at 9PM and she wakes me up as early as 2:30AM. Whatever would happen if I went to bed SOONER than that.
Bret's package arrived today. I opened it up and a lively white Bear wearing a green stocking cap and a green quilted vest popped right out of the tip. He is wearing a sign that says "You look like you need a hug. So I hugged him.
The unwrapped presents went under the tree. Only two more days til the festivities start.
Good night, Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite.
Love
Mary
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Can you believe that the highest the temperature got today was minus 1? And the wind is still blowing. Even Chelsea is not eager to stay out for any more time than it takes to do her duty.
Dick and I decided that I should not leave the house today because of the cold. So I did not and I am grateful. I put a heater on in the garage to try to take the chill off and it got all the way up to 19 degrees.
The plows DID come through and the poor guy that does the sidewalk shoveling did too. I am glad that I did not see him, I would have been worried. But maybe I could have given him some hot chocolate or something.
I did a lot of stuff today around here. Everything is pretty much put away and I am actually almost done with my preliminary stuff for CWI. The main thing that I have to do is recruit another person to be on the board.
I called my friend Nancy today too. We had not talked for some time. I found out that probably the best Mass to go to on Christmas Eve will be the 6PM. It will be busy but not as busy as the 4PM whish is for the kids. I am reminded of an Irish priest who was the pastor at a parish that I belonged to in Costa Mesa. I think the parish was St. Joachim's. Anyway. Christmas came and the church was, as usual for the holiday, packed to the rafters. Every seat was filled and there were chairs along every wall and every aisle. The priest gave his sermon and with an Irish twinkle in his eye said that none of the parishioners would mind being crowded at all as long as everybody came back the next week.
Wouldn't that be something.
When we were really little, Mom and Dad would store presents over at the two sets of Grandma and Grandpa's Houses. Dad would go to Midnight Mass, which was actually at midnight then. Before he left for Mass, he and Mother would decorate the tree and he would pick up all the presents. When he got home at 1PM, they would sort all the presents and then he would have a T-Bone steak for breakfast.
How they ever got up with us at 6AM, I will never know and Mom had to fix a big Christmas dinner too.
A house full of love and it was go good thing. With all those people in the house it could have been a disaster if we did not love each other.
Mary
Dick and I decided that I should not leave the house today because of the cold. So I did not and I am grateful. I put a heater on in the garage to try to take the chill off and it got all the way up to 19 degrees.
The plows DID come through and the poor guy that does the sidewalk shoveling did too. I am glad that I did not see him, I would have been worried. But maybe I could have given him some hot chocolate or something.
I did a lot of stuff today around here. Everything is pretty much put away and I am actually almost done with my preliminary stuff for CWI. The main thing that I have to do is recruit another person to be on the board.
I called my friend Nancy today too. We had not talked for some time. I found out that probably the best Mass to go to on Christmas Eve will be the 6PM. It will be busy but not as busy as the 4PM whish is for the kids. I am reminded of an Irish priest who was the pastor at a parish that I belonged to in Costa Mesa. I think the parish was St. Joachim's. Anyway. Christmas came and the church was, as usual for the holiday, packed to the rafters. Every seat was filled and there were chairs along every wall and every aisle. The priest gave his sermon and with an Irish twinkle in his eye said that none of the parishioners would mind being crowded at all as long as everybody came back the next week.
Wouldn't that be something.
When we were really little, Mom and Dad would store presents over at the two sets of Grandma and Grandpa's Houses. Dad would go to Midnight Mass, which was actually at midnight then. Before he left for Mass, he and Mother would decorate the tree and he would pick up all the presents. When he got home at 1PM, they would sort all the presents and then he would have a T-Bone steak for breakfast.
How they ever got up with us at 6AM, I will never know and Mom had to fix a big Christmas dinner too.
A house full of love and it was go good thing. With all those people in the house it could have been a disaster if we did not love each other.
Mary
Saturday, December 20, 2008
I went to the 4PM Mass tonight. Good thing. We are supposed to get 4 to six inches of snow tonight. If we do, I will not go to see Dick until later in the afternoon when things are plowed. When I was leaving, the neighbors that requested permission for us to get Roxie back asked if she was here. I was able to really thank them and tell them that Roxie is settled in, eating and seems very content again. I am grateful for people who care.
Today was the day to pick up Share and the morning got a bit crowded. I stopped to see Dick at 8:30 and took his phone. Then I went to Kate's and we got Share and payed for next month. Next, Kate and I went to Walmart so that I could add minutes to Dick's phone and pick up some milk. The milk turned into some potholders, some pants for me and an extra tin for buckeyes and fudge.
When I got home, I took care of Chelsea, petted the kitties, put the Share order away and then went back to the Center and had dinner (remember Dinner there is the noon meal.) It was quite good. Delicious beef, nondescript mashed potatoes, tasty veggies (not mushy) and pineapple upside down cake.
Then Dick and I "hung out" until about three when I came home to get ready for church and to work on the Stollen. I rolled it out and set it out to rise while I was at church. When I got home from church I fed everybody (including me) and then went back to spend a little more time with Dick. I was able to do everything that he needs help with today. Yesterday, I was not there. I massage the stump, help him get water and everything for teeth brushing and fill the cpap machine.
We got a card for Leslie today. It is musical. It plays Deck the Halls and Dick and I love it. Heard from Jim and Michelle. I was beginning to think that I should send a "where are you" message. They are settling in to their new digs and it sounds like all is going well. They are grateful to be only three miles from Michelle's place of work if nothing else.
The time for our Christmas meal is all set. We will have to do the same thing as we did on Thanksgiving. I am going to be sure that we have a place to gather for the dessert portion. Dick really liked that. It will only be two days after the graft is stitched in place and it would be dangerous to try to bring him home.
I have been trying to finish this blog and to get ready for bed but I keep getting phone calls. Wonderful phone calls. My friend, Barbara Litursky Sadler, called from Minnesota. She is basking in being a Grandma. Her daughter Paula had a daughter who will be 5 months old on Chrismas. Barbara also has a grandson who she lost contact with for a while in a divorce, but who's mother is now willing to share this grandson. He is 8 years old and so proud of "his" cousin, the new baby. He is so proud to be able to have someone related to him who is not a part of his half siblings. Isn't that cute.
Only four days until Christmas. I am ready as I can be.
Alice Walker said that "The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." Remember your power. We had it when we were babies and slowly let the world take it away. It says in the Koran the "Every child has the right to believe that God created the world JUST for him(or her)"
Love
Mary
Today was the day to pick up Share and the morning got a bit crowded. I stopped to see Dick at 8:30 and took his phone. Then I went to Kate's and we got Share and payed for next month. Next, Kate and I went to Walmart so that I could add minutes to Dick's phone and pick up some milk. The milk turned into some potholders, some pants for me and an extra tin for buckeyes and fudge.
When I got home, I took care of Chelsea, petted the kitties, put the Share order away and then went back to the Center and had dinner (remember Dinner there is the noon meal.) It was quite good. Delicious beef, nondescript mashed potatoes, tasty veggies (not mushy) and pineapple upside down cake.
Then Dick and I "hung out" until about three when I came home to get ready for church and to work on the Stollen. I rolled it out and set it out to rise while I was at church. When I got home from church I fed everybody (including me) and then went back to spend a little more time with Dick. I was able to do everything that he needs help with today. Yesterday, I was not there. I massage the stump, help him get water and everything for teeth brushing and fill the cpap machine.
We got a card for Leslie today. It is musical. It plays Deck the Halls and Dick and I love it. Heard from Jim and Michelle. I was beginning to think that I should send a "where are you" message. They are settling in to their new digs and it sounds like all is going well. They are grateful to be only three miles from Michelle's place of work if nothing else.
The time for our Christmas meal is all set. We will have to do the same thing as we did on Thanksgiving. I am going to be sure that we have a place to gather for the dessert portion. Dick really liked that. It will only be two days after the graft is stitched in place and it would be dangerous to try to bring him home.
I have been trying to finish this blog and to get ready for bed but I keep getting phone calls. Wonderful phone calls. My friend, Barbara Litursky Sadler, called from Minnesota. She is basking in being a Grandma. Her daughter Paula had a daughter who will be 5 months old on Chrismas. Barbara also has a grandson who she lost contact with for a while in a divorce, but who's mother is now willing to share this grandson. He is 8 years old and so proud of "his" cousin, the new baby. He is so proud to be able to have someone related to him who is not a part of his half siblings. Isn't that cute.
Only four days until Christmas. I am ready as I can be.
Alice Walker said that "The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." Remember your power. We had it when we were babies and slowly let the world take it away. It says in the Koran the "Every child has the right to believe that God created the world JUST for him(or her)"
Love
Mary
Friday, December 19, 2008
Today was a stay at home day. It had snowed ALL night so there was 4 to 6 inches piled up all around us. I let Chelsea out just from the garage door most of the day. I had to shovel out a little spot for her. The snow was almost as deep as she is tall and it is hard for a little dog to go potty when she can't even squat down.
They finally were able to come around to plow us out this evening when the snow stopped.
So - I mixed up the dough for the Stollen, assembled a couple of lasagna's (one for tomorrow night and one to freeze), did some Christmas cards both snail and email and designed a letterhead and envelope for the CWI. I will be sending out some letters to members who have not paid their dues since 2006. We are catching up and cleaning out the membership list. I also cleaned the bathrooms and kitchen floors.
It was peaceful but I am very tired. It is much nicer when Dick is here. At least now I have all of my critters to keep me company. One critter is not very happy with me. Chelsea got a bath this morning. She was just grubby and I felt that if I was home all day with her it was a good time for that bath. She is sparkling now.
Tomorrow there is not supposed to be any snow until evening. So. I will be able to visit Dick, get Share and go to Mass at 4PM.
Then Dick and I will have lasagna for supper together. We did not get our meal together today. And he is running out of minutes again. We have been talking more. I think I will give him my phone. It has lots more minutes than I need and may just last him. He and I are aiming for him to be home before January is over.
It is going to get colder again. Single digets again. I remember the year the boys and Dick Johnston and I came back for Christmas though. I swear that it was 10 to 16 below every day we were here. I remember that we walked out of the airport in Milwaukee and my California boys darn near froze in place. They had been up to Big Bear Mountain on Snow Jeep runs but never in their lives had they experienced THAT kind of cold. That was a fun time. We suprised Mom and Dad. All my brothers and sisters knew we were coming but not my parents. I remember that Mother said. "Well I guess that I will make cut out cookies after all." And she did and the boys helped her frost and decorate them.
Love
Mary
They finally were able to come around to plow us out this evening when the snow stopped.
So - I mixed up the dough for the Stollen, assembled a couple of lasagna's (one for tomorrow night and one to freeze), did some Christmas cards both snail and email and designed a letterhead and envelope for the CWI. I will be sending out some letters to members who have not paid their dues since 2006. We are catching up and cleaning out the membership list. I also cleaned the bathrooms and kitchen floors.
It was peaceful but I am very tired. It is much nicer when Dick is here. At least now I have all of my critters to keep me company. One critter is not very happy with me. Chelsea got a bath this morning. She was just grubby and I felt that if I was home all day with her it was a good time for that bath. She is sparkling now.
Tomorrow there is not supposed to be any snow until evening. So. I will be able to visit Dick, get Share and go to Mass at 4PM.
Then Dick and I will have lasagna for supper together. We did not get our meal together today. And he is running out of minutes again. We have been talking more. I think I will give him my phone. It has lots more minutes than I need and may just last him. He and I are aiming for him to be home before January is over.
It is going to get colder again. Single digets again. I remember the year the boys and Dick Johnston and I came back for Christmas though. I swear that it was 10 to 16 below every day we were here. I remember that we walked out of the airport in Milwaukee and my California boys darn near froze in place. They had been up to Big Bear Mountain on Snow Jeep runs but never in their lives had they experienced THAT kind of cold. That was a fun time. We suprised Mom and Dad. All my brothers and sisters knew we were coming but not my parents. I remember that Mother said. "Well I guess that I will make cut out cookies after all." And she did and the boys helped her frost and decorate them.
Love
Mary
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Aother cold day. It was below zero when we got up this morning and did not get above single digits that I was aware of.
Roxie finally ate a meal. She had not eaten all day on Wednesday but this morning she was quite enthusiastic and tonight she ate too so she is settling in just fine. Right not she is sleeping on the desk under the desk lamp just like the old days.
Oscar has a really good sleeping place. I have not been able to find him several times. BUT he came in to me several times for petting during the night so we are starting to feel at home here.
They find Chelsea mildly annoying, but are not afraid of her and she seems rather indifferent to them. I think her only complaint is that I do not let her in the room with them while they are eating. She would just nose them aside and eat everything. Dogs DO love cat food.
We had disappointing news today. Dick was supposed to go to see Dr. Moreno for a skin graft on the wound on his right foot this afternoon. At about 10:45AM we got a call that the graft had not arrived and we have had to postpone the procedure to Tuesday 12/23.
The big disappointment is that this puts us off almost a week before he can do any weightbearing on that leg. He cannot bear weight for two weeks after the procedure. That means he will not be able to refit the prosthesis for another week after the two weeks. We want him home and he cannot do that until he is safe and able to move himself around. Pretty hard when you can't bear weight on one leg and the other is waiting for the prosthesis. So pray hard that it is not delayed again and that the prosthesis process will go well when it finally gets started.
I did not go over to the Center until after lunch today. And I came home at 4PM. Dick got his beard and hair cut today. He looks very dashing.
When I got home, Bobbie and Bill had just finished changin the hinges to the bathroom door to offset hinges. It is WONDERFUL. They door opens outward and folds flat against the hallway wall. Dick should be able to roll easily into the bathroom and then we will be able to shut the door behind him leaving the whole floor area for him to move around in.
Bill (and Bobbie) did SUCH a great job. Everything like this makes me feel that we are closer to getting Dick home again. I really miss him.
I guess that is all. Quite a busy day, wouldn't you say?
We are supposed to be getting snow from any time after 6 PM tonight until 3PM tomorrow afternoon. I hope it is not TOO bad tonight. Dick is supposed to have an appointment with Dr. Sharon in the morning. It is in Plymouth so if there is not too much snow, we should be able to make it.
I talked to Bret tonight. He got his packages and is doing fine.
Until tomorrow.
Love
Mary
Roxie finally ate a meal. She had not eaten all day on Wednesday but this morning she was quite enthusiastic and tonight she ate too so she is settling in just fine. Right not she is sleeping on the desk under the desk lamp just like the old days.
Oscar has a really good sleeping place. I have not been able to find him several times. BUT he came in to me several times for petting during the night so we are starting to feel at home here.
They find Chelsea mildly annoying, but are not afraid of her and she seems rather indifferent to them. I think her only complaint is that I do not let her in the room with them while they are eating. She would just nose them aside and eat everything. Dogs DO love cat food.
We had disappointing news today. Dick was supposed to go to see Dr. Moreno for a skin graft on the wound on his right foot this afternoon. At about 10:45AM we got a call that the graft had not arrived and we have had to postpone the procedure to Tuesday 12/23.
The big disappointment is that this puts us off almost a week before he can do any weightbearing on that leg. He cannot bear weight for two weeks after the procedure. That means he will not be able to refit the prosthesis for another week after the two weeks. We want him home and he cannot do that until he is safe and able to move himself around. Pretty hard when you can't bear weight on one leg and the other is waiting for the prosthesis. So pray hard that it is not delayed again and that the prosthesis process will go well when it finally gets started.
I did not go over to the Center until after lunch today. And I came home at 4PM. Dick got his beard and hair cut today. He looks very dashing.
When I got home, Bobbie and Bill had just finished changin the hinges to the bathroom door to offset hinges. It is WONDERFUL. They door opens outward and folds flat against the hallway wall. Dick should be able to roll easily into the bathroom and then we will be able to shut the door behind him leaving the whole floor area for him to move around in.
Bill (and Bobbie) did SUCH a great job. Everything like this makes me feel that we are closer to getting Dick home again. I really miss him.
I guess that is all. Quite a busy day, wouldn't you say?
We are supposed to be getting snow from any time after 6 PM tonight until 3PM tomorrow afternoon. I hope it is not TOO bad tonight. Dick is supposed to have an appointment with Dr. Sharon in the morning. It is in Plymouth so if there is not too much snow, we should be able to make it.
I talked to Bret tonight. He got his packages and is doing fine.
Until tomorrow.
Love
Mary
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
A busy busy day. I had to take Chelsea out at again. This is one of those situations that kind of started when Dick was here. She would get up BUT he could tell if she was really anxious. Now, I can't take the chance. So we are getting into the routine of letting her go to the bathroom and then my going back to bed until 6AM. It's working. Not my preferred scenario, but it works.
I fed everybody. Oscar ate like a little pig. Roxie is not eating. So I put it down, and I figure that she will eat when she gets hungry. She may have a little tummy distress from the changes too. She is coming around for love and attention. And though she is not impressed by Chelsea, hissing at Chelsea if she gets too close, she is not frightened. Roxie also found the heating cat bed that Jim bought several years ago and now she likes it.
Oscar has found a hiding place that is REALLY good. He comes out to eat and occasionally for some petting but is mainly laying low and I have NO idea where.
I went grocery shopping at about 8AM, then to the bank and Walgreens. After groceries were put away, I went to spend a couple of hours with Dick. I watched his therapy, then went to Bill Cain's Annual ReMax open house. Bill is looking good. Better than he has looked in years. He was very sick for a long time. I saw several old friends there and head a wonderful lunch.
When I got home, Roxie was in the cat bed and very content and there was no sign of Oscar. I took a nap and did a bunch of straightening up and CWI work. I have one more board member for 2009. Janet Bieschke said she would be on the board. Now I only need one more. Perhaps tomorrow, I can take care of that.
I heated up the last of the chili for Dick and me for our supper tonight. It sure hit the spot. I came back home at a bit before 7 and am really going to be ready for bed at 9PM.
Would you believe that a week from tomorrow is Christmas? Tomorrow, Dick has the graft sutured onto the open wound on his right foot. Thank heavens, the big snow that we are supposed to get is not happening until late in the day. This graft has to be used very quickly or it won't work.
He has an appointment with Dr. Sharon, his primary physician, on Friday but if things are too bad, we can always reschedule that.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu said "Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."
Like I told my boys. Bloom where you are planted.
Love
Mary
P. S. Roxie still doesn't like it if I whistle.
I fed everybody. Oscar ate like a little pig. Roxie is not eating. So I put it down, and I figure that she will eat when she gets hungry. She may have a little tummy distress from the changes too. She is coming around for love and attention. And though she is not impressed by Chelsea, hissing at Chelsea if she gets too close, she is not frightened. Roxie also found the heating cat bed that Jim bought several years ago and now she likes it.
Oscar has found a hiding place that is REALLY good. He comes out to eat and occasionally for some petting but is mainly laying low and I have NO idea where.
I went grocery shopping at about 8AM, then to the bank and Walgreens. After groceries were put away, I went to spend a couple of hours with Dick. I watched his therapy, then went to Bill Cain's Annual ReMax open house. Bill is looking good. Better than he has looked in years. He was very sick for a long time. I saw several old friends there and head a wonderful lunch.
When I got home, Roxie was in the cat bed and very content and there was no sign of Oscar. I took a nap and did a bunch of straightening up and CWI work. I have one more board member for 2009. Janet Bieschke said she would be on the board. Now I only need one more. Perhaps tomorrow, I can take care of that.
I heated up the last of the chili for Dick and me for our supper tonight. It sure hit the spot. I came back home at a bit before 7 and am really going to be ready for bed at 9PM.
Would you believe that a week from tomorrow is Christmas? Tomorrow, Dick has the graft sutured onto the open wound on his right foot. Thank heavens, the big snow that we are supposed to get is not happening until late in the day. This graft has to be used very quickly or it won't work.
He has an appointment with Dr. Sharon, his primary physician, on Friday but if things are too bad, we can always reschedule that.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu said "Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."
Like I told my boys. Bloom where you are planted.
Love
Mary
P. S. Roxie still doesn't like it if I whistle.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
A red letter day. I received an early Christmas present. My kitties are back in my home again.
I got up at 4 to take Chelsea out and it was -2degrees. Would you believe? I took the girl out and went back to bed until 6AM. It was still -2. It only got up to 9degrees all day. Unbelieveably cold.
I vacuumed the living room and took care of computer work then went over to the Center to stay with Dick through his therapy and dinner. I had to be home by 1PM when Bobbie and Bill brought the kitties. We put them in the old office with their litter box and water for a couple of hours. Bill worked a little more on the door. He has all the routing done (I think) Now the time comes when they come again to actually hang the door and see how it really works.
After they left, I opened the office door and sat in there writing out Christmas cards and watching TV to get them used to seeing me again. Eventually Oscar checked out the water and litter box then disappeared. I think he was exploring on his own or perhaps he found a nice care like place to rest for a while.
I fed them at their designated time 5:30. Roxie was a not a good eater. I rescued her food from Oscar and then from Chelsea and finally just shut her in the room and let her eat for a while. Then I figured if Oscar still wanted it he could have it.
Roxie is being stand offish but Oscar is being very friendly. I know they will be nervous for a while, but I know now that we will be all right. I am just hoping that Oscar will cuddle with me tonight. I have really missed that.
Have a great day tomorrow. I know I will
Love
Mary
I got up at 4 to take Chelsea out and it was -2degrees. Would you believe? I took the girl out and went back to bed until 6AM. It was still -2. It only got up to 9degrees all day. Unbelieveably cold.
I vacuumed the living room and took care of computer work then went over to the Center to stay with Dick through his therapy and dinner. I had to be home by 1PM when Bobbie and Bill brought the kitties. We put them in the old office with their litter box and water for a couple of hours. Bill worked a little more on the door. He has all the routing done (I think) Now the time comes when they come again to actually hang the door and see how it really works.
After they left, I opened the office door and sat in there writing out Christmas cards and watching TV to get them used to seeing me again. Eventually Oscar checked out the water and litter box then disappeared. I think he was exploring on his own or perhaps he found a nice care like place to rest for a while.
I fed them at their designated time 5:30. Roxie was a not a good eater. I rescued her food from Oscar and then from Chelsea and finally just shut her in the room and let her eat for a while. Then I figured if Oscar still wanted it he could have it.
Roxie is being stand offish but Oscar is being very friendly. I know they will be nervous for a while, but I know now that we will be all right. I am just hoping that Oscar will cuddle with me tonight. I have really missed that.
Have a great day tomorrow. I know I will
Love
Mary
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