I can't believe I haven't posted since November 16Th,
Monday was really busy - I think I went to bone builders,
G. R. shopping and a Lions dinner and meeting that night.
On Tue I went to sew with Marcia from 10:30 to 3:30, we were finishing up embroidering Rabbits on an appliqued quilt,
Wed. I had prayer group at 7am and WELCA pot luck that night, I brought a Tater-tot hot dish. Thurs. bone builders again and
Friday Bible Study. I have been baking like a real trooper what with the Holiday Bazaar on
Sat. I worked all day. We did rather well for our church. $780 so we were happy.
Church on Sunday and I went to Martha's and played Cribbage in the afternoon.
Monday was bone builders again and we went to G.R. again shopping.
Tue, Church at 7 tonight at Alliance and pie and coffee after. Always a nice time. Jim only ate 3 pieces of pie. I think he is slipping.
Wed. I had fun cooking and baking all day for Thanksgiving.
Thurs. Rich came over, we ate at one. my pumpkin pie wasn't done quite long enough. I will have to remember that, heck it was in an hour, also made apple crisp, different recipe. I didn't even try it but I won't make that recipe again. I made a new recipe, sweet potato puff, would make it again, corn souffle and mashed potatoes, turkey and gravy and frebcg rolls. It was a wonderful meal. Sent two meals home with Richard and two over to Gordy and June. You can only stand so many left overs.
Friday we went over to Longville, brought June with and purchased lots of corn for the deer and sunflower seeds for the birds.
Sat. I knit most of the day and watched a movie June loaned me. I didn't like it much. Jim went fishing and that brings me to
Sunday which is today. Will add more later.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
BUSY MONDAY
Lots to do today, dusting for sure, yuck, it's thick. Bone-builders at 9am, we need to go shopping in GR and visit Grandma, dogs will love it, boy do they love being at home, I have a Lion's meeting tonight so lots to do.
DAY 7 SUNDAY - DOES POP MEAN ANYTHING?
We were up really early, thanks to you know who. I was showered and ready by6 am. Jim couldn't find his bag, too early for him so he used my deodorant and smelled like a girly-man. He did find it before we left of course. We had the big breakfast at Mickie Dee's. We knew we were going through Des Moines IA and we knew Pastor Dr Michael Foss, our former Pastor at POP, was at St Mark's Church there so we googled him and thought we would take in church if it worked out but didn't know how far to Des Moines and as it turned out we got there at 8:15 and service started at 8:30 and he was preaching that day. It was too fun to hear him preach again. He was always good at it and the sermon was on Blessings. We feel so blessed just to have each other and our schildren and grand-children that it doesn't get any better than that. We do count our blessing every day and are so greatful for them. The sermon was on Count your blessings, not your disappointments, he is such a good story teller. A Gift.
We hit the road again and we stopped for gas and a Burger King on the road just across the Iowa border, and hit Mac and Laura's about 1:30 pm, I had something I wanted to drop off for Laura to thank her for the wonderful lefsa weekend and of course to see Hope walk and she didn't disappoint. Was she ever excited and hepped up. She can even climb stairs. GATES where are the child gates. They will need half a dozen in that house. She is into everything. She can even get the cap off the Vaseline jar now. In seconds no less. What a cutie, and Glenn and Karin were there and it is always so nice to see them.
We had Laura's wonderful pumpkin pie and headed for home.
Got home just before dark, the car took forever to empty and of course the house is a mess - have already done two loads of clothes. These are the last notes from the trip.
What fun we had and we were gone just the right amount of time, it was a perfect trip and late in January or early February we get to do it all over again with the camper. Our Park Avenue is just a little too small for Jim. We will have the truck the next trip. For news on the truck see my next posting.
We hit the road again and we stopped for gas and a Burger King on the road just across the Iowa border, and hit Mac and Laura's about 1:30 pm, I had something I wanted to drop off for Laura to thank her for the wonderful lefsa weekend and of course to see Hope walk and she didn't disappoint. Was she ever excited and hepped up. She can even climb stairs. GATES where are the child gates. They will need half a dozen in that house. She is into everything. She can even get the cap off the Vaseline jar now. In seconds no less. What a cutie, and Glenn and Karin were there and it is always so nice to see them.
We had Laura's wonderful pumpkin pie and headed for home.
Got home just before dark, the car took forever to empty and of course the house is a mess - have already done two loads of clothes. These are the last notes from the trip.
What fun we had and we were gone just the right amount of time, it was a perfect trip and late in January or early February we get to do it all over again with the camper. Our Park Avenue is just a little too small for Jim. We will have the truck the next trip. For news on the truck see my next posting.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
DAY 6 SATURDAY - ON THE WAY HOME
We of course went to Crepes Inc again for breakfast, won't Jim ever get tired of their waffles. NO! I had a wonderful omelet and trimmings. We then went on a hunt for a shot glass. For the collection of course. I have to start giving them away or need a bigger tray. We went back to our hotel and I walked down the the Chase Hotel to see if their gift shop had any I wanted - NO, beautiful hotel. went to Walgreen's Drug Store but they don't carry souvenirs. I finally found the one I wanted at a truck stop as we left St Louis when we stopped for gas and a wonderful blue bunny ice cream bar, (Jim's idea of course - it's ice cream). Stopped by the basilica to take a picture of their gardens and we were stopped by our first pan-handler. Our first. How do you know if their story is for real or if it's just a line. Maybe you shouldn't question it and just shell out the dough. I don't know. Isn't it our duty as a citizen of the earth to lend a helping hand? Questions, questions, questions.
Back to our vacation, we headed for the Missouri Botanical Gardens. I think the literature said it was the oldest in the United States, been there for over 150 years. HUGE, is one way to describe it, over 14 miles of trails and over 500 acres. They not only had a huge Japanese Garden, they had a German Garden, a Chinese Garden, an Ottoman Garden, we just couldn't visit all of them but let me tell you the Japanese Garden was more than a little impressive even at this time of year.
You should have seen the rain forest garden building with waterfall and water dripping everywhere. The weather was beautiful all week and kept getting warmer and warmer, it was 72 on this day.
The parking lot was full when we left at noon.
Of course there was a goofy store a couple blocks from the garden we had to stop at on our way out, they were closed when we went to the park, so much junk there, we did manage to find a pair of salt and pepper ruby slippers that the heels click, toes really but they are held together with a magnet and Jim bought them for me. I wanted the door stop, it was a small lead pair of witches feet and too cute but too expensive. Love the ruby slippers.
It was at the next stop around two that we found the shot glass and ice cream bars and gas.
We headed out, it's amazing how Jim just knows where to go, he was driving around like he lived there.
We got as far as Cameron MO and stayed at a Budget Inn for the night, so nice having the car right outside the door for the luggage and dogs.
We ate at a family restaurant called Ma & Pa's Kettle. My stead and ribs were good but Jim's pork chops were so thin you could almost see through them. The baked potato was to die for if a baked potato can be to die for that is. Back to motel so we can get an early start tomorrow. We don't like to drive after dark since we both have bad left eyes. Aren't we a pair.
Back to our vacation, we headed for the Missouri Botanical Gardens. I think the literature said it was the oldest in the United States, been there for over 150 years. HUGE, is one way to describe it, over 14 miles of trails and over 500 acres. They not only had a huge Japanese Garden, they had a German Garden, a Chinese Garden, an Ottoman Garden, we just couldn't visit all of them but let me tell you the Japanese Garden was more than a little impressive even at this time of year.
You should have seen the rain forest garden building with waterfall and water dripping everywhere. The weather was beautiful all week and kept getting warmer and warmer, it was 72 on this day.
The parking lot was full when we left at noon.
Of course there was a goofy store a couple blocks from the garden we had to stop at on our way out, they were closed when we went to the park, so much junk there, we did manage to find a pair of salt and pepper ruby slippers that the heels click, toes really but they are held together with a magnet and Jim bought them for me. I wanted the door stop, it was a small lead pair of witches feet and too cute but too expensive. Love the ruby slippers.
It was at the next stop around two that we found the shot glass and ice cream bars and gas.
We headed out, it's amazing how Jim just knows where to go, he was driving around like he lived there.
We got as far as Cameron MO and stayed at a Budget Inn for the night, so nice having the car right outside the door for the luggage and dogs.
We ate at a family restaurant called Ma & Pa's Kettle. My stead and ribs were good but Jim's pork chops were so thin you could almost see through them. The baked potato was to die for if a baked potato can be to die for that is. Back to motel so we can get an early start tomorrow. We don't like to drive after dark since we both have bad left eyes. Aren't we a pair.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
DAY 5 FRIDAY - LAST DAY IN ST LOUIS - BOO HOO
We are on our last day in St Louis - had too much fun yesterday on Friday. Had breakfast at Crepes Inc again. Jim had the same wonderful waffles with blueberries, blackberry's, strawberries and raspberries. I went with the quiche and it was all wonderful. We headed for downtown to see The Arch in the daylight. Walked the parks downtown, went under the Arch - what a wonderful museum and displays below ground. We took turns and no, I didn't go up in the Arch. Had the dogs and there was such a long line. I managed to find a visor on the waterfront for St Louis.
We came back to the Central West End and went through the St Louis Cathedral Basilica - it was unbelievable, the art and grandeur just can't be explained in a few sentences. It was wonderful, we grabbed a few apples at our room and headed out to Forest Park again. We took in The Art Museum. We only went through the main floor and that took awhile. We we left the building I spotted a giant stainless steel tree on the grounds. What fun. So beautiful and the statue of St Louis out front of the museum was a left over from the 1904 St Louis World's Fair or Louisiana Exposition. The Art Museum is also a left over from it. It's an exquisite building. We left and drove right over to the are called The Hill and found our second Italian Restaurant, Lorenzo's Traitoria, it was recommended by Jim's friend Bill so we wanted to find it, we couldn't find it the second night here but did find it last night and it was wonderful.
Back to the hotel, been a long day for both Jim and I and for the babies.
We came back to the Central West End and went through the St Louis Cathedral Basilica - it was unbelievable, the art and grandeur just can't be explained in a few sentences. It was wonderful, we grabbed a few apples at our room and headed out to Forest Park again. We took in The Art Museum. We only went through the main floor and that took awhile. We we left the building I spotted a giant stainless steel tree on the grounds. What fun. So beautiful and the statue of St Louis out front of the museum was a left over from the 1904 St Louis World's Fair or Louisiana Exposition. The Art Museum is also a left over from it. It's an exquisite building. We left and drove right over to the are called The Hill and found our second Italian Restaurant, Lorenzo's Traitoria, it was recommended by Jim's friend Bill so we wanted to find it, we couldn't find it the second night here but did find it last night and it was wonderful.
Back to the hotel, been a long day for both Jim and I and for the babies.
Friday, November 13, 2009
DAY 4 THURDSAY - ST LOUIS ADVENTURE DAY
I am having a hard time reading this small typing, so fun having a blind eye. It's Thursday today, and what a wonderful day we had. Took the dogs out for a walk and went hunting for this wonderful breakfast place only about 4 blocks away. The neighborhood here is so breathtaking, all mantions and beautiful buildings, I had what was voted the best hot chocolate in St Louis and a banana crepe, Jim had waffles. Delious and we are going back today.
We went to Forest Park to the History Museum, Jim lost me if you can believe that. It's not that big. Do you suppose he lost me on purpose. As we were going through the St Louis World's Fair Exhibit he fell asleep on a bench. Tired? I think so. We walked the dogs so much in the park as I want to see and read every statue standing. Poor Otto picked up the leaves from some kind of pine tree that sticks to him like glue. I was forever brushing him, carried the brush with me because he had a hard time walking.
We finally left the park about 2 pm, drove around and had a bite of lunch. Went back to the hotel and Jim hooked up with Bill for a couple of hours. I laid low with the mutts. Loved it.
After Jim came back we decided to see downtown St Louis after dard. I had yet to see the famous St Louis Arch, the gateway to the west, it was worth the trip downtown. We drove down by the riverfront, stopped and took pictures of the Arch and found a City Park that went on for 3 blocks full of fountains and statues. Even lite up ones. Spent about an hour downtown at night. Headed back and decided to find an Italian Eatery in a section called The Hill. Ate at a place Gian-Tony, a Sicilian eatery. The food was outstanding but we didn't eat till late. Back to the hotel and another adventure tomorrow.
We went to Forest Park to the History Museum, Jim lost me if you can believe that. It's not that big. Do you suppose he lost me on purpose. As we were going through the St Louis World's Fair Exhibit he fell asleep on a bench. Tired? I think so. We walked the dogs so much in the park as I want to see and read every statue standing. Poor Otto picked up the leaves from some kind of pine tree that sticks to him like glue. I was forever brushing him, carried the brush with me because he had a hard time walking.
We finally left the park about 2 pm, drove around and had a bite of lunch. Went back to the hotel and Jim hooked up with Bill for a couple of hours. I laid low with the mutts. Loved it.
After Jim came back we decided to see downtown St Louis after dard. I had yet to see the famous St Louis Arch, the gateway to the west, it was worth the trip downtown. We drove down by the riverfront, stopped and took pictures of the Arch and found a City Park that went on for 3 blocks full of fountains and statues. Even lite up ones. Spent about an hour downtown at night. Headed back and decided to find an Italian Eatery in a section called The Hill. Ate at a place Gian-Tony, a Sicilian eatery. The food was outstanding but we didn't eat till late. Back to the hotel and another adventure tomorrow.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
DAY 3 WEDNESDAY - ST lOUIS & LUXURY
We slept in a little, that means Jim didn't get up till after 7 am. Had the big breakfast and zoom we are on our way. Next stop Hannibul MO. We needed to freshen up our coffee and after Jim went to the visitor center we picked up some pamplets and coupons for The Java Jive downtown and went to get some yummy coffee, I had some smooth organic stuff and Jim's was forgetable, he is so fuzzy about his coffee, not me, you dump enough stuff in it and if it's hot, it's good.
I went shopping, you should see my earrings, too cute and picked up a couple other things, my credit card wouldn't go through, can you believe we were declined, NOT! so Jim had to call Visa and tell them we were traveling and then everything worked. I also bought two presents. Fun little shop,
We didn't do any sightseeing around Hannibal, just pressed on to connect up with Bill Grivna, he is currently a life coach and still dabbles in teaching acting and a Tai Chi Instructor. He was a Professor at the Univ of Illinois Edwardsville right across the river. Anyway he is such a nice guy, Jim went to Junior High and High School with him. He showed us the hotel and area to stay in. It is outstanding here at Hotel Indigo. You pay a $50 deosit fee and thats it for the dogs. Hardwood floors and on the main floor. It's been completely refurbished and the King bed is like a cloud. Bill took us only a few blocks away from the hotel to the trendy shopping and eating district. We are in the Central West End of St Louis. Almost next to the Chase Hotel which is lovely and right on the park. Forest Park is only about 3-4 block right down the street, it houses the Art Museum, History Museum, Zoo, Planitarium, Conservatory, walking paths, its bigger than Central Park. was the sight of the 1904 Worlds Fair. We had Lunch with Bill at a place called Duff's and he had to leave, we took the dogs for a walk to Walgreens, needed a couple of things and ate gourmet pizza in the hotel. Good food. Dogs have adjusted well.
I went shopping, you should see my earrings, too cute and picked up a couple other things, my credit card wouldn't go through, can you believe we were declined, NOT! so Jim had to call Visa and tell them we were traveling and then everything worked. I also bought two presents. Fun little shop,
We didn't do any sightseeing around Hannibal, just pressed on to connect up with Bill Grivna, he is currently a life coach and still dabbles in teaching acting and a Tai Chi Instructor. He was a Professor at the Univ of Illinois Edwardsville right across the river. Anyway he is such a nice guy, Jim went to Junior High and High School with him. He showed us the hotel and area to stay in. It is outstanding here at Hotel Indigo. You pay a $50 deosit fee and thats it for the dogs. Hardwood floors and on the main floor. It's been completely refurbished and the King bed is like a cloud. Bill took us only a few blocks away from the hotel to the trendy shopping and eating district. We are in the Central West End of St Louis. Almost next to the Chase Hotel which is lovely and right on the park. Forest Park is only about 3-4 block right down the street, it houses the Art Museum, History Museum, Zoo, Planitarium, Conservatory, walking paths, its bigger than Central Park. was the sight of the 1904 Worlds Fair. We had Lunch with Bill at a place called Duff's and he had to leave, we took the dogs for a walk to Walgreens, needed a couple of things and ate gourmet pizza in the hotel. Good food. Dogs have adjusted well.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
DAY 2 TUEDSAY - IOWA
We stayed in Minnesota the first night of our adventure and we are in Iowa the second night at a place called the Knight's Inn. Very Nice. I have had my own bed two nights now and let me tell you there is a difference having your ow Queen bed vs Jim, Otto, Makons and I sharing one Queen bed. Only if my bedroom were bigger we would have a King, but then you all know Jim is King. My attempt at humor.
We took off quite early from Winona and stayed on the Minnesota side all the way down Iowa. I would have to say the Wisconsin side is probably more interesting because of the unique towns and stops but we have really enjoyed our trip down the Minnesota side. We at at the Golden Arches for breakfast and pushed on by 6 am I think. Maybe it was closer to seven because after breakfast the sun was thinking about coming up.
Our first stop was too fun, quaint little hardware store in Lansing IA. No we weren't Christmas shopping but Jim did buy me a little Christmas hanging for the wall. I may put it on the tree. It was the same town we had stopped in before when we went through Iowa years aga camping with the old pop-up camper. It has quite a unique junk store. A hoot to go through but we decided to press on and not stop in that store again.
We stopped in Harper's Ferry and visited Effigy Moun ds National Monument, they have 2,526 acres of trails. We only went up 2 miles and down 2 miles. It was straight up two miles too. Indian burial mounds, some were shaped like eagles or bears. Most were just round mounds along the river bluffs. The dogs enjoyed it and of course Otto picked up travelers along the way with his short little legs. I have to say this was the our favorite stop so far. We loved being outside and walking in the woods. The woods were so very old and no under brush. The paths were 4-6 inches thick of very small wood chips. So soft and cushie to walk on. Weather was beautiful and about 60 out with no wind up on the trail. We had to de-leaf him before we could go on our way. I have brushed him every day and he hates every minute of it. On our way again.
We drove around Guttenburg Ia a little bit but I couldn't find the house Debbie, Dottie, Susie and I stated in one weekend. We pressed on to Marquette Ia and had a lunch buffet at Lady Luck Casino with a Pink Elephant outside, no it's not real but funny none the less. The buffet was not memorable but Jim would stop there again, he found a salad he just loved and I think the Turtle Cheesecake came in second. For me it filled a hunger and that was all.
Our next stop was after dark, the Knights Inn Motel where I am writing this from and it a very pleasant room. It's 6:12 am now and the dogs are still asleep, so is Jim but he is about to be awoke because we need to get on our way. We wanted to make Keokuk IA but didn't and there is a lot to see there. We are having a wonderful time.
We took off quite early from Winona and stayed on the Minnesota side all the way down Iowa. I would have to say the Wisconsin side is probably more interesting because of the unique towns and stops but we have really enjoyed our trip down the Minnesota side. We at at the Golden Arches for breakfast and pushed on by 6 am I think. Maybe it was closer to seven because after breakfast the sun was thinking about coming up.
Our first stop was too fun, quaint little hardware store in Lansing IA. No we weren't Christmas shopping but Jim did buy me a little Christmas hanging for the wall. I may put it on the tree. It was the same town we had stopped in before when we went through Iowa years aga camping with the old pop-up camper. It has quite a unique junk store. A hoot to go through but we decided to press on and not stop in that store again.
We stopped in Harper's Ferry and visited Effigy Moun ds National Monument, they have 2,526 acres of trails. We only went up 2 miles and down 2 miles. It was straight up two miles too. Indian burial mounds, some were shaped like eagles or bears. Most were just round mounds along the river bluffs. The dogs enjoyed it and of course Otto picked up travelers along the way with his short little legs. I have to say this was the our favorite stop so far. We loved being outside and walking in the woods. The woods were so very old and no under brush. The paths were 4-6 inches thick of very small wood chips. So soft and cushie to walk on. Weather was beautiful and about 60 out with no wind up on the trail. We had to de-leaf him before we could go on our way. I have brushed him every day and he hates every minute of it. On our way again.
We drove around Guttenburg Ia a little bit but I couldn't find the house Debbie, Dottie, Susie and I stated in one weekend. We pressed on to Marquette Ia and had a lunch buffet at Lady Luck Casino with a Pink Elephant outside, no it's not real but funny none the less. The buffet was not memorable but Jim would stop there again, he found a salad he just loved and I think the Turtle Cheesecake came in second. For me it filled a hunger and that was all.
Our next stop was after dark, the Knights Inn Motel where I am writing this from and it a very pleasant room. It's 6:12 am now and the dogs are still asleep, so is Jim but he is about to be awoke because we need to get on our way. We wanted to make Keokuk IA but didn't and there is a lot to see there. We are having a wonderful time.
Monday, November 9, 2009
DAY 1 MONDAY - GOING DOWN GOOD OLD MISSISSIPPI
Here we are in beautiful Winona. We planned on leaving about 9am but John and Andrew didn't get back from hunting until after 10 and face it - we weren't ready anyway.
We dropped Andrew off about 2:30 pm and headed South. Beautiful day for a drive and the kids are behaving very well except I don't like the way Otto is snapping at Andrew for no reason. He is the same way about food.
We stopped in Lake City at an apple orchard and bought a peck of HoneyCrisp Apples, we really only bought a bag of apples but I like saying we bought a peck. Also we picked up some sweet corn salsa. Never even heard of it before but I couldn't resist.
We stopped at Burlington wildlife bird refuge area - I couldn't believe the swans - hundreds of them and lots of ducks and geese also. Breathtaking! It's funny because it was new and being dedicated the next day after our stop.
We are staying at the Sterling Motel in Winona, dogs are enjoying it, we forgot their dog food so we had to go shopping and there is a HyVee right across the street, we noticed what looked to be wonderful food there so Jim and I decided to try it and atethere and it was indeed wonderful.
Well that's about it for Day one. Exciting stuff huh.
We dropped Andrew off about 2:30 pm and headed South. Beautiful day for a drive and the kids are behaving very well except I don't like the way Otto is snapping at Andrew for no reason. He is the same way about food.
We stopped in Lake City at an apple orchard and bought a peck of HoneyCrisp Apples, we really only bought a bag of apples but I like saying we bought a peck. Also we picked up some sweet corn salsa. Never even heard of it before but I couldn't resist.
We stopped at Burlington wildlife bird refuge area - I couldn't believe the swans - hundreds of them and lots of ducks and geese also. Breathtaking! It's funny because it was new and being dedicated the next day after our stop.
We are staying at the Sterling Motel in Winona, dogs are enjoying it, we forgot their dog food so we had to go shopping and there is a HyVee right across the street, we noticed what looked to be wonderful food there so Jim and I decided to try it and atethere and it was indeed wonderful.
Well that's about it for Day one. Exciting stuff huh.
LEFSA WEEKEND
We did the lefsa thing - too fun - what's not to like - I saw my Sister Heidi and Godchild Erin, we were at Mac and Laura's and got to spend a lot of time with wonderful Hope. I have to get a picture of her two front teeth - eye teeth. She is by far the cutest vampire I have ever seen and they came out just in time for Holloween.
I picked up Alexis, River and Autumn on the way and on Saturday night Heidi and Pat came over to play Wizard. We also played on Friday night. Mac had Wii so fun was had by all but me. Not interested but fun to watch. Skye came over all three days so how does it get any better than to be with the kids. I was happy!
We rolled lefsa on Sunday from 9-3 and ate till we were full of it and that Laura fed us so many wonderful dishes I may just have to have her move up to Remer. The hot dish, tacos, french toast, egg bake - wine and food food food and Heidi made wonder white chicken chile for Sunday.
I made a Mom's blueberry delight and went and forgot it. Go figure.
Have to get back to packing. We leave for our Mississippi adventure in a very short time.
More later.
The travelers!
I picked up Alexis, River and Autumn on the way and on Saturday night Heidi and Pat came over to play Wizard. We also played on Friday night. Mac had Wii so fun was had by all but me. Not interested but fun to watch. Skye came over all three days so how does it get any better than to be with the kids. I was happy!
We rolled lefsa on Sunday from 9-3 and ate till we were full of it and that Laura fed us so many wonderful dishes I may just have to have her move up to Remer. The hot dish, tacos, french toast, egg bake - wine and food food food and Heidi made wonder white chicken chile for Sunday.
I made a Mom's blueberry delight and went and forgot it. Go figure.
Have to get back to packing. We leave for our Mississippi adventure in a very short time.
More later.
The travelers!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
I'M BACK
I cannot believe it's been since Feb. since I last left a note. I plan on coming in more often, face it if I only blog once a month I will be in here a lot. Had Garden Club yesterday at my house. Of course I made my Mother's Blueberry Delight for the members.
Today we took Grandma in for blood work. She was being given 3 times the amount of potassium that was supposed to be given. HELLO!
Going out to dinner tonight and to the Reif to hear BIG BANDS with Sue and Gary. Will be fun.
Excited about this weekend - it's LEFSA weekend. YIPEE SKIPEE.
Today we took Grandma in for blood work. She was being given 3 times the amount of potassium that was supposed to be given. HELLO!
Going out to dinner tonight and to the Reif to hear BIG BANDS with Sue and Gary. Will be fun.
Excited about this weekend - it's LEFSA weekend. YIPEE SKIPEE.
Friday, February 27, 2009
I AM NOT DEAD
It has been over a month since I posted in my blog. Had surgery on my back on Jan. 27th and just haven't felt much like writing but I need to get back at it. I received so many nice cards, flowers, food and well wishes that it kept me busy just keeping up with notes, thank yous and I am finally starting to feel like I am joining the human race again.
I am really sick and tired of winter, hard to believe we actually will have Spring in 3 weeks.
I am really sick and tired of winter, hard to believe we actually will have Spring in 3 weeks.
Friday, January 23, 2009
IT'S PAINT DAY!
It has been far too long since I last wrote in here. A week ago Wed. I promised myself I would get to it at least every other day but as you can see I just didn't.
We are ushering at church the last half of the month and that means I bake, bake, bake and of course eat, eat, eat. I am putting on weight at an alarming rate and that will come to a screeching halt now that I am having surgery next Tue.
We had WELCA (my Mom called it Ladies Aid) last Wed. and I made a new recipe and have to get it to Mac. I think he will like it. Pineapple Pepper Chicken. They raved about it at church but they like almost anything that is in the food family. They are such a great bunch of people. We had at least 13 women and we finished our last lesson in our Heaven bible study series.
I had my pre-op physical last Tue., the same day as Alexis having her MRI. What a pair we are. I don't know what we would do without Skye, the only one of us girls with a whole body.
Since I am going to be in the bedroom for awhile after surgery I decided the last room in the house that needed painting was going to get it this week. We started last night, I have had the paint for two years. It's Forest Ridge. Kind of looks like the inside of a pine forest, all green and dark. I must have a thing about green and have alot of green in the house. Jim and I have to repaint the dining room and hall this spring but I don't dare tell him about it now. He worked so hard on it and as I grabbed the wrong can of paint, it's not the right color, just a little darker that I wanted but in haste I made a mistake, that's what I get for having so many shades of green in the house. It was a comedy and we laffed alot. I am doing the trim and Jim is rolling his little heart out. As he always says, "we make a pretty good team, don't we" and yes we do.
We ran out, used up a gallon already and have to run to Home Depot this morning and get another gallon.
We also have grocery shopping to do, but I want to get home to finish up the painting and maybe Jim and Leon, (our neighbor) can get the hospital bed from Gordy and June's and we plan on putting it in the bedroom next to our bed. What a crowded room that will be but it will be nice to have a hospital bed for my recovery. Jim mentioned how will it go with having him and the two dogs with me in our bed while I am recovering and I said let's get the hospital bed back from the neighbor. Good idea.
I am also excited about Grandma Lil's care. I have been working with Deerwood Home Care and they bumbed her up from 18 hours to 31 hours a week. I can have someone come in 5 days a week in the morning and get her washed up and going for the day. She loves playing "Go Fish" with Scarlett and Louana. Louana sure makes her laugh, and she makes incrediable mango salsa. I have tried but it fell short. Skip the corn and get more peppers in it I think.
Here it is Friday morning at 5:15, Jim and I have been up since 3:15, are we nuts or what. Grandma just peaked her head out and I am going to get her going so we can take off for Grand Rapids. Wonder if we will see any deer on the road. We have had up to 5 at our feeder at a time this winter. They have such cute little horns.
I should have Jeff hunt here, he would get a deer but shooting one at the feeder might take the sport out of it. Heck it's meat.
We are almost done with out case of meat we purchased from North Star Meats, now that was a mistake. Some of it was downright awful. We won't go outside our meat market again but we had to try it.
Can't wait to get the bedroom done.
We are ushering at church the last half of the month and that means I bake, bake, bake and of course eat, eat, eat. I am putting on weight at an alarming rate and that will come to a screeching halt now that I am having surgery next Tue.
We had WELCA (my Mom called it Ladies Aid) last Wed. and I made a new recipe and have to get it to Mac. I think he will like it. Pineapple Pepper Chicken. They raved about it at church but they like almost anything that is in the food family. They are such a great bunch of people. We had at least 13 women and we finished our last lesson in our Heaven bible study series.
I had my pre-op physical last Tue., the same day as Alexis having her MRI. What a pair we are. I don't know what we would do without Skye, the only one of us girls with a whole body.
Since I am going to be in the bedroom for awhile after surgery I decided the last room in the house that needed painting was going to get it this week. We started last night, I have had the paint for two years. It's Forest Ridge. Kind of looks like the inside of a pine forest, all green and dark. I must have a thing about green and have alot of green in the house. Jim and I have to repaint the dining room and hall this spring but I don't dare tell him about it now. He worked so hard on it and as I grabbed the wrong can of paint, it's not the right color, just a little darker that I wanted but in haste I made a mistake, that's what I get for having so many shades of green in the house. It was a comedy and we laffed alot. I am doing the trim and Jim is rolling his little heart out. As he always says, "we make a pretty good team, don't we" and yes we do.
We ran out, used up a gallon already and have to run to Home Depot this morning and get another gallon.
We also have grocery shopping to do, but I want to get home to finish up the painting and maybe Jim and Leon, (our neighbor) can get the hospital bed from Gordy and June's and we plan on putting it in the bedroom next to our bed. What a crowded room that will be but it will be nice to have a hospital bed for my recovery. Jim mentioned how will it go with having him and the two dogs with me in our bed while I am recovering and I said let's get the hospital bed back from the neighbor. Good idea.
I am also excited about Grandma Lil's care. I have been working with Deerwood Home Care and they bumbed her up from 18 hours to 31 hours a week. I can have someone come in 5 days a week in the morning and get her washed up and going for the day. She loves playing "Go Fish" with Scarlett and Louana. Louana sure makes her laugh, and she makes incrediable mango salsa. I have tried but it fell short. Skip the corn and get more peppers in it I think.
Here it is Friday morning at 5:15, Jim and I have been up since 3:15, are we nuts or what. Grandma just peaked her head out and I am going to get her going so we can take off for Grand Rapids. Wonder if we will see any deer on the road. We have had up to 5 at our feeder at a time this winter. They have such cute little horns.
I should have Jeff hunt here, he would get a deer but shooting one at the feeder might take the sport out of it. Heck it's meat.
We are almost done with out case of meat we purchased from North Star Meats, now that was a mistake. Some of it was downright awful. We won't go outside our meat market again but we had to try it.
Can't wait to get the bedroom done.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Cleaning Day
Got up showered and out of the house to prayer group by 6:40. Wrote 5 notes, thank yous to Lynn Olmen and Skye, note to Nancy Swenson, Sharon Clark and I know there was someone else. You would think I could remember from 6am till now.
Had prayer group, full group today, I got home and vacuumed and shampooed living room, bedroom and hall. I can never get the taste of carpet cleaner out of my mouth for hours.
Jim has his laptop all set up at his desk now. Sure is a nice laptop.
I think we will have Chicken Kiev for dinner tonight.
Luana will come tomorrow and I have a date to meet Sheila for 9am coffee. Have alot of shopping to do, it seems the list grows overnight. I also have talked to the Deer River Healthcare center and we have got a tentative schedule worked out for Grandma.
I have a dentist appt tomorrow and I need to get my financial statement done for WELCA.
Had prayer group, full group today, I got home and vacuumed and shampooed living room, bedroom and hall. I can never get the taste of carpet cleaner out of my mouth for hours.
Jim has his laptop all set up at his desk now. Sure is a nice laptop.
I think we will have Chicken Kiev for dinner tonight.
Luana will come tomorrow and I have a date to meet Sheila for 9am coffee. Have alot of shopping to do, it seems the list grows overnight. I also have talked to the Deer River Healthcare center and we have got a tentative schedule worked out for Grandma.
I have a dentist appt tomorrow and I need to get my financial statement done for WELCA.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Bible Study Day
We have a new bible study thanks to Marcia Hodson. We are into our second chapter and have a new member of our group. Our group is Janet (using her house), Pete, Linda (our leader) myself and Audrey, a friend of Pete's. I am enjoying the series, "Overcoming Lonelines" by David Jeremiah. We have the cassettes by David Jeremiah so it makes the lessons really more meaningfull. Two of the group couldn't show up today but it sure was a good session with Linda - Janet and myself. I brought two of the cassettes home so Jim can listen to them with me, now just to get him to do it.
I talked to Alexis today and she has an MRI scheduled for a week from today. It's too bad we can't be in the same hospital since we are having the same kind of surgery. Oh joy. Oh rapture.
I talked to Alexis today and she has an MRI scheduled for a week from today. It's too bad we can't be in the same hospital since we are having the same kind of surgery. Oh joy. Oh rapture.
Monday, January 12, 2009
A DAY OF REST
Here is is Monday and I don't know if I have ever been so tired - what a wirl-wind weekend and come this morning all I could think about was taking a nap time sometime today. Went in and got the paper and Scarlett came at 9 - I talked to Cassandra, Leslie the person that does the scheduling left Deer River Health Care and Cindy isn't fully on board, after talking to them last Thursday they said we could get an additional 15 hours a week and since I am having surgery at the end of the month I would like to get things in motion.
Jim stayed in Cross Lake last night at Jerry Birdie's cabin, they went out fishing but didn't have lots of luck.
I did get in a wonderful nap and it lasted a long time. Talked to Ozzie, Heidi and Dot today. Jim got home and he went to his Doctor appointment today, he has water on the elbow and they drained it off. He has a budget meeting at church tonight.
Jim stayed in Cross Lake last night at Jerry Birdie's cabin, they went out fishing but didn't have lots of luck.
I did get in a wonderful nap and it lasted a long time. Talked to Ozzie, Heidi and Dot today. Jim got home and he went to his Doctor appointment today, he has water on the elbow and they drained it off. He has a budget meeting at church tonight.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
CLASSMATES REUNION
Jim and I are still at Skye's. We started off yesterday by sneaking out early and going to Perkins. I love breakfast there, we don't have one in G.R., so its fun to visit one every 6 months or so. Went back to Skye's and she and I ran to Michael's , JoAnn Fabrics and picked up some hair stuff for me at Aerial. I selectecd some yarn for Erin's 2 scarves that I plan on making this week, got the perfect yarn for her gray coat but didn't see her black and white and red coat so I will have to just guess what that looks like.
Got back to Skye's and she did my hair. It sure turned out lovely. We shot off to Mac's so we could see little peanut again and what fun. Heidi showed up with my favorite potato/carrot soup and flowers for Mac and Laura. I know they appreciate food brought to them alot. I made them chile and pink rice krispie bars. Skye also dropped in to hold little Hope. She is soooooooooo beautiful.
Then off like a shot to the reunion. Lynn, Dot and Nancy were at Lynn's house when I arrived and we sat and ate and talked and had some rather good wine until 8:30 and Jim showed up and joined us until 9:30 or 10:30, I am not sure because I had over a bottle of wine myself. It sure was a fun time.
It's Jeff's birthday today, the young man is 37, my how the years fly by. On Sunday when we got up and we did get up early, we were on the road by 6:00 am. We met the Stumpf family in Little Falls at 8:15 am at Perkins. I don't think you can get too much of a good thing. It sure was fun to see them. I want to take the kids for Spring Break. I need to find out when it is. I wish I lived closer to Little Falls.
We got home on Sunday by 11:30 am and that afternoon I got to talk to Nancy and Dot. Sheila called me late in the day and we talked for at least one and a half hours. I made a date with her for coffee on Thursday. I sure didn't get much done after I got home.
Got back to Skye's and she did my hair. It sure turned out lovely. We shot off to Mac's so we could see little peanut again and what fun. Heidi showed up with my favorite potato/carrot soup and flowers for Mac and Laura. I know they appreciate food brought to them alot. I made them chile and pink rice krispie bars. Skye also dropped in to hold little Hope. She is soooooooooo beautiful.
Then off like a shot to the reunion. Lynn, Dot and Nancy were at Lynn's house when I arrived and we sat and ate and talked and had some rather good wine until 8:30 and Jim showed up and joined us until 9:30 or 10:30, I am not sure because I had over a bottle of wine myself. It sure was a fun time.
It's Jeff's birthday today, the young man is 37, my how the years fly by. On Sunday when we got up and we did get up early, we were on the road by 6:00 am. We met the Stumpf family in Little Falls at 8:15 am at Perkins. I don't think you can get too much of a good thing. It sure was fun to see them. I want to take the kids for Spring Break. I need to find out when it is. I wish I lived closer to Little Falls.
We got home on Sunday by 11:30 am and that afternoon I got to talk to Nancy and Dot. Sheila called me late in the day and we talked for at least one and a half hours. I made a date with her for coffee on Thursday. I sure didn't get much done after I got home.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Hope's Visit
Well I finally got signed back into my blog - I had locked myself out of my computer for almost a week but Skye's idea of backing up to a date I was last on the computer was great and wonderful Josh, Erin's betrothed got me back online.
This was the weekend we had set aside to see little Hope. Tears come to my eyes every time I held her - she is so beautiful and perfect. I saw her on Friday and will see her again today for a few hours. Mac and Laura are so full of love for each other and that perfect little girl.
I am spending the weekend with Skye, it's too too fun. We met Dick, a customer of her's at the Science Museum. He is an assistant curator and collections manager for biology at the museum. We must have spent 2-3 hours going throught the archives and what fun it was. What an opportunity for us and I hope we can do it again sometime. Her customers do love her. The jokes he told were funny - they even have a brain and it's named Ab Normal. Jim and I had quite a few laffs over that.
We went to Champ's and had dinner and a couple of beers, then off to her house where we met Heidi and Maggie, Erin and Josh and their new puppy Palmer. Everyone got a haircut and foils for the girls. I brought my new salsa but it was disappointing, better luck to me next time.
This was the weekend we had set aside to see little Hope. Tears come to my eyes every time I held her - she is so beautiful and perfect. I saw her on Friday and will see her again today for a few hours. Mac and Laura are so full of love for each other and that perfect little girl.
I am spending the weekend with Skye, it's too too fun. We met Dick, a customer of her's at the Science Museum. He is an assistant curator and collections manager for biology at the museum. We must have spent 2-3 hours going throught the archives and what fun it was. What an opportunity for us and I hope we can do it again sometime. Her customers do love her. The jokes he told were funny - they even have a brain and it's named Ab Normal. Jim and I had quite a few laffs over that.
We went to Champ's and had dinner and a couple of beers, then off to her house where we met Heidi and Maggie, Erin and Josh and their new puppy Palmer. Everyone got a haircut and foils for the girls. I brought my new salsa but it was disappointing, better luck to me next time.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Well here it is Monday, today is the day I have to figure out why there is a string of lights out in my tree before I put it away. I will miss the warm glow from the colored lights. I have it up two months and you would think that would be enough. It's not.
I can't help but wonder what Mac is doing at this moment. I remember this time of the day well when we brought the kids home from the hospital. The holding and bonding with them in the middle of the night. The little darlings have to be fed and changed so often when they are so little.
Grandma had a wonderful day yesterday - David and Richard both called, I am sure she talked to Joy at some time. Her brother Robert called, at least I think it was Robert, it may have been Louie, Grandma couldn't remember who, and her neice Donna called. Her neice Bonnie popped in, that was special, she brought her a favorite soup, chicken wild rice soup and the book Marley and Me. Scarlett will have fun reading it. The phone sure was ringing. It was such fun for her and in church we included her and Mac and Laura and little Hope in the congreations prayers of thanksgiving.
I had a dentist appointment today but this is the second time they have had to cancel it. Living up in Remer can have it drawbacks. The weather controls our appointments sometimes.
We go to Grand Rapids today and Scarlett, Grandma's respite care aid comes today to spend 6 hours with her. Will be fun for Grandma to keep the celebration going.
We go to Grand Rapids Grocery shopping. We did something really dumb last fall, Two men in a truck showed up selling cases of steaks ect., they said the beef was from Pipestone and wonderful. Well its tolerable, not wonderful, our meat market is wonderful. We had to learn the lesson, I more or less insisted we at least try it.
I almost have Susie Q' scarf done. Will have to get it off in the mail today and start on one for Deborah. I do have fun with my scarf making.
Wish I was holding little Hope in my arms today. Don't get much chance to hold a new baby anymore.
I can't help but wonder what Mac is doing at this moment. I remember this time of the day well when we brought the kids home from the hospital. The holding and bonding with them in the middle of the night. The little darlings have to be fed and changed so often when they are so little.
Grandma had a wonderful day yesterday - David and Richard both called, I am sure she talked to Joy at some time. Her brother Robert called, at least I think it was Robert, it may have been Louie, Grandma couldn't remember who, and her neice Donna called. Her neice Bonnie popped in, that was special, she brought her a favorite soup, chicken wild rice soup and the book Marley and Me. Scarlett will have fun reading it. The phone sure was ringing. It was such fun for her and in church we included her and Mac and Laura and little Hope in the congreations prayers of thanksgiving.
I had a dentist appointment today but this is the second time they have had to cancel it. Living up in Remer can have it drawbacks. The weather controls our appointments sometimes.
We go to Grand Rapids today and Scarlett, Grandma's respite care aid comes today to spend 6 hours with her. Will be fun for Grandma to keep the celebration going.
We go to Grand Rapids Grocery shopping. We did something really dumb last fall, Two men in a truck showed up selling cases of steaks ect., they said the beef was from Pipestone and wonderful. Well its tolerable, not wonderful, our meat market is wonderful. We had to learn the lesson, I more or less insisted we at least try it.
I almost have Susie Q' scarf done. Will have to get it off in the mail today and start on one for Deborah. I do have fun with my scarf making.
Wish I was holding little Hope in my arms today. Don't get much chance to hold a new baby anymore.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
I can't believe that I completely missed Sat the 3rd, Jan 3rd is the day my Mom was born, she would hav been 93 yesterday. She only made it to 81. Wished it would have been longer. Grandma (Jim's Mom) is 97 today. Can hardly believe someone can get to be that old. On the news yesterday the oldest person, he was 115, died in Portugal. Heck, she may outlive me the way things are going. She has been living with us going on 8 years now.
It snowed all day yesterday, I loved every minute of it. I made Krumkake with the iron I purchased last year. I will have to take my manual iron to Skyes house to use. She has a gas stove. The krumkake on the gas stove is much thiner. They just are better even though the recipe is the same.
Here it is Sunay, blowing like crazy, I imagine we will be able to make church. We are on the main highway and if Jim can get us blown out. He is waiting for a part for the blower. Always something breaking.
I also recv in the mail yesterday a check for 3 scarves. I was so surprised. What a treat. It justified some of they yarn I buy. I love making scarves. Have some yet to send out.
I now make it my scarf ministry since I have quit the Craft store on Dec 13th. I know I have sold at least 15 scarves or more for our craft sale for the church. One lady alone gave me a check for $100 for some special order scarves I made for her. Having fun.
I need to wash the floors. Later.
It snowed all day yesterday, I loved every minute of it. I made Krumkake with the iron I purchased last year. I will have to take my manual iron to Skyes house to use. She has a gas stove. The krumkake on the gas stove is much thiner. They just are better even though the recipe is the same.
Here it is Sunay, blowing like crazy, I imagine we will be able to make church. We are on the main highway and if Jim can get us blown out. He is waiting for a part for the blower. Always something breaking.
I also recv in the mail yesterday a check for 3 scarves. I was so surprised. What a treat. It justified some of they yarn I buy. I love making scarves. Have some yet to send out.
I now make it my scarf ministry since I have quit the Craft store on Dec 13th. I know I have sold at least 15 scarves or more for our craft sale for the church. One lady alone gave me a check for $100 for some special order scarves I made for her. Having fun.
I need to wash the floors. Later.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Here I am on my second day of blogging. Putting away the Christmas stuff is an ongoing process, thats for sure. Doing this blog stuff is an ongoing process and I have to figure out how to edit, so far no go. So much to learn and sometimes I feel like my head is made of cotton. I love the computer and want to use it to its fullest exent but if it doesn't have anything to do with ChartHouse and selling videos I seem to be at a loss.
It is Saturday, Jim gets sworn in as the Treasurer for Lima Township today. It's a paid position so that money will pay for high speed internet connection. Yipee Skipee.
He just has to select a server. So many decisions. Later.
It is Saturday, Jim gets sworn in as the Treasurer for Lima Township today. It's a paid position so that money will pay for high speed internet connection. Yipee Skipee.
He just has to select a server. So many decisions. Later.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
PJ's PINES
It's the first posting on my blog. I wanted a way to keep a diary so all they kids could check out what we are doing and when.
Isn't the first of the year a perfect time to start.
Isn't the first of the year a perfect time to start.
The best news of the year of course is the birth of little Hope. She came into our lives unexpectedly early 2 days ago. She is 7#, 20 1/2 inches long and so beautiful it breaks your heart. I can't wait to hold her. All they other grandparents have so she is well on her way in the love department.
We celebrated our 23 years of married life together yesterday. Everyday with Jim is a special day. We are blessed and very very lucky.
Since it is only 6:45 am, not much news yet.
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