OVERWEIGHT

Well here I go again, a new year and I am facing being overweight, the problem is I eat and I like it, I really like it.  All those bad foods for me. They taste so good to me.  I can understand overdoing anything.  I get obsessed with food.  I really think it will be back to weight watchers.  I need it, it is either that or they will have to roll me around.  I am sure I will feel better after a month or so.

I have all my decorations off the tree.  I need to focus more on getting things packed away so we can get on with our remodel.

I just am having a hard time even with my glasses on reading the size  of the print unless I can change it .  This size is better - now I have to remember how I did it.
I don't have a clue where the weekend went.  I messed up and forgot to open the Library Friday, felt stupid but all I could do was sign up for next Saturday since no one else did.  I really need to check my calendar.  I haven't been doing much but just relaxing and lovin it but goofed on Saturday, and then last night I made some ranch munchie and firgot it was in the oven and started it on fire.  Kill me, I am becoming a forgetful person.  I guess.  
New year coming.  Exciting time. Jim just got back from Red Lake with Grandson Andrew who is now taller than Jim and Jim is 6'4" and son John.  They had to get going to get back to Hastings tomorrow for the big hockey game at the XL center, at least I think that is where they play.  Ah ya it's the WILD.  Couldn't remember for awhile.  Well Jim just popped in, he cleaned. 9 walleyes. Yummy.

New Post - Thursday morning.

Been up for awhile. Made some coffee in my new Keurig. I love it.i always make a pot of coffee when I kmow Jim awakes and what I like about it is Jim now get fresh coffee because I don't make a full pot until 6 or 7. It is funny how cold my feet are, poor circulation. What is one to do. I know Skye and I have a deal, I loose weight and she quits smoking totally. I know she doesn't smoke much but she needs to quit. She has only one kidney and she needs to do everything possible to stay healthy. Something will get her in the end but why rush it. I am making a Jimmy Dean Sausage Egg and Cheese Croissant for breakfast. I am glad the print is so hard to read, I don't think I want to know how much fat is in it. Big day today, food sheld day, it is the last time we serve this month. Yesterday was fun, I left early looking for an address south of Remer. I had a winter coat to deliver to a gal I saw at food shelf last week. I picked up a wonder London Fog jacket at Goodwill for $10 and it is in mint condition, washed it up, has a hood and is an extra large, I think it will work out beautifully so I put a bag together of scarves, gloves, headbands and also brought that along. Was fun to do on Christmas morning. The gal was there with her Mother, husband and baby making their Christmas dinner. Such a nice sight. Thr coat was black and I just couldn't believe the good condition. Sometimes you wonder how marvelous clothes get there. People are so giving. Our WELCA will pick up the tab I am sure. I don't know if I mentioned but on Christmas Eve I did two readings. I enjoyed it but our microphones just cut out and squeak too much. We need to do something. And I think I will go to the next council meeting to talk about it. What a nightmare for the Pastor.

CHRISTMAS REVIEW

I love this picture of Jim and I, we just got back from church down in Naples, we look so warm. There is so much to tell about Christmas - I really wanted to say more about Thursday night, how it started out as such a mixed up day. I was rushing around all day, I think this was the day I awoke early and made sugar cookies. We left at 2:15pm from our Food Shelf duties, we work there from 1-3 but the last hour is always slower. We left out home by 2:30pm so we were right on track.i am sure we got to Skye's by 5:30pm Ansley helped us unload the car, the problem was when we got downtown about 6pm and got out of the car we discovered that Jim's sports coat wasn't in the car, between Skye and I we removed it from the car and Jim just didn't notice. What a nightmare for him. His leather jacket was also at Skye's. He had on a black long sleeve cotton turtleneck. No warmth there. We had to forge on. That is one of the reason's we ate at "Fogo de Chao" (Fogo.com) it is a Brazilian Steak House. They offered the meal up two ways, $26.50 for Salad Bar or $49.50 for steak and salad bar. We only had time for the salad bar. I can't believe all I had was a Caesar salad and a few other sides and our bill was $72.00. I wish we would have had time for the whole experience. It would have been fun. We were out of there in plenty of time for a quick dash across the street to see "All is Calm", the Christmas Truce of 1914. The PantGus was right across the street and it is right on the corner of 7th and Hennepin, it's on the West side. It used to be a 7 story bldg. I have no idea why they tor down 5 floors but the structure is only 2 stories now. LOOKING BACK 1916–1965 The Pantages, which now seats 1014, opened in 1916 as a vaudeville house and part of Greek immigrant and impresario Alexander Pantages’ renowned consortia of theatres. It was designed by the Minneapolis firm of Kees and Colburn in an Art Moderne/Beaux Arts style. The Pantages’ first show was a vaudeville lineup that included singers, comedians and a banjo player. In 1922, the Pantages was remodeled by renowned theatre architect Marcus Priteca/RKO and a new stained glass dome was added, which remains among the Pantages' most lovely features. In 1945, Edmond Ruben purchased the Pantages and renovated it by adding bird’s-eye maple. The grand reopening was on April 14, 1946 with a screening of "Gilda." In 1961, Ruben sold the Pantages to Ted Mann, who owned five other downtown Minneapolis theatres including the Orpheum Theatre. Mann renovated the Pantages yet again, and reopened it as a top-notch movie house the Mann Theatre on March 15, 1961 with the movie "Spartacus." That same year, United Artists previewed "West Side Story" at the Mann; and the film went on to win ten Academy Awards. In 1965 director Robert Wise, recalling his success with "West Side Story," decided to preview his new movie, "The Sound of Music," at the Mann. The showing at the Pantages was a terrific success and went on to become the longest running film in Twin Cities history – just under two years. The theatre operated sporadically from 1965 through 1984, continuing to show movies including the Mann’s last Twin Cities premiere of "Annie" in 1982. RENOVATION 1984-PRESENT In 1984, the Mann Theatre closed and remained shuttered until 1996, when current Hennepin Theatre Trust President/CEO Tom Hoch and former Historic Theatre Group President Fred Krohn initiated a five-year effort to save and restore the Pantages Theatre. During the renovation, architectural drawings were found and used to restore much of the theatre’s decorative plasterwork and character. The stained-glass “monitor,” a false skylight in the center of the auditorium’s ceiling, was revealed after layers of paint were removed. In cooperation with the City of Minneapolis, on November 7, 2002 the completely renovated Pantages re-opened at a cost of $9.5 million. Since then, the intimate Pantages has presented music, theatre and dance artists including Mikhail Baryshnikov, Vince Gill, Feist, Todd Rundgren, The Blenders and collaborative productions with Twin Cities’ organizations including the Jungle Theater, the History Theatre, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, Cantus and Theater Latté Da. Hennepin Theatre Trust is now the owner and operator of this magnificent structure. Here is what is really funny. The gal sitting in front of us walked down to view the ceiling because we were sitting under the balcony and from our spot couldn't see it. I forgot to go look at it. It gives me a good excuse to go back. Jim did go and buy me a $4.00 salted nut roll in the lobby. Kill me. Wore my old fur coat for the last time. I did wear it the next day when we went shopping but just to get rid of it. I wish we could have taken a picture of it. I will have to see if I can find one.

CHRISTMAS EVE

What a glorious day, been up since 3am, no idea why but I am always so grateful when I wake up, I don't care when that is. Had a nice day yesterday, all I did was some laundry and a little pick up. When you get back from traveling it is always such a mess" What a wonderful Christmas with my family. Laura is such a wonderful hostess. Love her to death. Skye wouldn't let me take my memory picture of her, Mac and Alexis. Those pictures mean so much to me. I am having LEFSE for breakfast today. YIPEE SKIPEE! What a Christmas, it has been so fun. We need to go to the Rapids today, even if it is 28 below. Northern Minnesota is a very special place indeed. You have to be a Northerner to live here. What a special day, the birth of Jesus. Church. We usher today too. So glad the fire is on but my toes never seem to warm up. The kids are right beside me. Otto under the chair and Makons playing dead in front of me. You should see my new coat, we went to Ribnicks and traded in my fox coat which I dearly loved but it was just too small and wearing out, I got a wonderful reversible mink with buttons and sheared mink on one side and Ranch mink trim. Taffeta on the reverse and it has a hood, about 3/4 length. You should see it. I want you to know, it is warm. We need warm. He is good to me, so very good, I really don't know that I deserve it but it is fun.

SUNDAY MORNING (4th SUNDAY IN ADVENT)

it has been such a busy week, it is 6:30 Sunday morning and I am having a quite moment listening to The Collingsworth Family singing carols. They are wonderful. I need to get ready for our big day, The Wizard od Oz at thr Orday. We have had a wonderful few day with Alexis, Autumn, River, Skye, Mac and Laura and Hope and Hudson. A wonderful dinner last night at Mac's. I really don't know where to start. I spent a lot of time baking before I arrived and it was ever so fun. I made a whole tin of cut out cookies, we decorated some of them at Laura's and they are having Tar and Sandy over on Tue & We with a bunch of little kids and Laura would like to use some of R that. Sounds good to me. Laura made a picture of the most wonderful Sangria, the fruit in it was just wonderful and the flavor superb. I will have to try that for Nancy and Dot. I need to get them up in Feb. isn't it funny to talk about February now with Dec still with us. Skye has been really busy this month and I am so glad because Nov was a slower month.

SANTA

We had 30 kids and 30 adults at the Library on Saturday. On Sunday I was busy busy busy, I did have help ushering because Jim, John and Jerry all came back Sat instead of Sunday. We have walleye now. Joey could each bring back 4. I made Brownies, Russian Tea Cakes and pecan Pie Thumbprints and also Apple cider. Gwen gave me the recipe and it was yummy, I think I will bring some down for Christmas. Took a nap after church and went to G.R. Shopping but the mall there closed up 15 minutes after I got there. Too funny. I was home by 5:15, not too crazy about driving in the dark but there was a full moon. We had a nice dinner and today, Monday, I made a Christmas Wreath cookie and it seemed to take me most of the day. What a Putsy cookie. Will toss that recipe. We have a Lion's Prime Rib dinner tonight and I have talked Jim in to going. Mi am tickled and had bett put rollers in my hair. Well later. We will see what tomorrow brings.

D.O.S.S. Or The Divine Order of the Sipping Sisters

We had such a nice time, Nancy and Denise Green, Gail, Helen, Darlene, Dee, Georgene, Sue and Susan and Renee and me. I guess we had 11 of us show. Lovely time and fun, I gave Dee's earrings, big hit. We were there from 5:15 to 9:15 so a goodly time. I really did take off Friday, went to play Golf with June and that is about it. I have a busy day today but the thing that puzzles me the most is where oh where is my 2nd jug of Apple cider. I will have to run to town in just a few min so have to run. Santa is coming to the Libary while I am working.

My wonderful kids, from last summer. Alexis Smith, Skye Smith, Mac Smith The SMITH widow's peak

I did it!

I got a picture of Skye and Alexis on my blog, it took me a long time to even find a picture I could post. Jim's boy John is up! enjoy having him here, it is almost 7am and they are getting ready for an ice fishing trip up to Red Lake. They will leave with the 22 foot fish house and leave it there for the winter. He can work with their 500 stores from his computer, he services them somehow and today I am sending a plant to Ali's x husband Jeff to congratulate him on the new jewelry store he took over Dec 1st. Going to rotate the tires on Ali's car for Christmas. I may go see her on Sunday. S many things going on in the old brain bucket.

FRIDAY, FUN FRIDAY

Well here I am up at 4am running around, I purchased a pack of overripe bananas and I will probably get some more today, I don't quite know how to explain what I did but my banana bread will not be as moist as usual. I think this is the best recipe for banana breat I have eve had, it is from allrecipes.com and wonderful. Sour Cream Banana Bread. Anyway I messed up because I forgot to put in the sour cream until 15 minutes after the bread was baking and I tried to put it in the pans, we will see if a patched up effort even works. I hope you can make out what I am trying to say, going back to correct my mistakes I a somewhat of a nightmare. Things don't work the way they should and it is frustrating. Yesterday was a busy busy day and today I should be able to get some baking done. I have a new cookie recipe I want to try. I also want to make cottage cheese crescents, from Linda and they are yummy. Went to Audrey's yesterday for Crafters and then worked Food Shelf from 1-3 and to Linda's by 4pm.jim had to stay a little longer because our Direct Tv guy Jacobson showed up, it turns out he lives only a half a mile from us. They had to go under the house but they fixed it. We had a lovely time over at Linda's and June's. Let's see Geri was there, Bill & patty and her Mother Phyllis. Leon and Judy, Linda Evans and her husband Dan. There were a dozen of us. I can't wait to see if the Banana bread is eatable. Need to warm up my coffee. It is 5:15 am. I have wine club tonight. I was going to hive a bottle of Wine but I am going ford the earrings. I get compliments on them, no offers to buy and I let them know they can get them for $10.

HERE IT IS THURSDAY AGAIN

I can't believe how fast the time goes by, I have a really busy day today but Thursday's usually are when Bethany is up for Food Shelf. We do it 3 times a year, Aug, Dec and April I think. I will be here this year.with Duane and Teresa moving to Brainerd they needed someone to pitch in. I have helped before so they are comfortable with me and you have to be very confidential about who yo use there. I left the house for the first time yesterday, we needed to do some shopping. We took my new car, a 2008 Buick Lucerne that is so loaded the steering wheel is even heated. It has remote start. Heated seats and back. Pretty Dark brown. Tan leather interior. Mine mine all mine but I really haven't driven it yet. Just the test drive. I have been busy, I think on Sun I visited June and Linda and on Tue I baked all day, Russian Teacakes, I use whole wheat flour, kind of a twist, I think most people use white flour but they are so much better with whole wheat flavor wise. Also made pecan Pie Thumbprints but we ate 1/2 of them, will try again, I just didn't have the hole the wight size for the pecan centers. Really tasty and I want them to look as good as they taste. I also need to make two more kinds before Sunday. Staying at home is fun in this 27 below weather. I know we are nuts for moving up North but Jim has so much fun here. Just listening to him talk on the phone about fishing is kind of exciting. T them and now it's ice fishing time and there is lots of perpetration - they have so much fun planning. A flyway I get a big kick out of it and I love the fact he is so happy about all of it. I love our life. I am sending out some Christmas cards and we did the traditional Picture. I will have to get some of the mistakes and post them. What a hoot. I am having too much fun preparing, we have a neighborhood party today and I am bringing that wonderful sausage dip, it is so easy and yummy, a roll of Jimmy Dean Sausage fried up and drained, throw on a pack 8 oz of cream cheese and a can of rotells detained tomatoes and WALLA you have a yummy dip for company, serve with festive red and green tortilla chips. I also make my sister Heidi Dill dip for the veggie try I am bringing. She said it was much better than the dip that comes with the tray, I wonder what happened to the dip that came with it, it must still be in the veggie tray, I have to remember to toss it. I wish you could have seen us do our annual Christmas photo, what a riot. The tree is the same in every one and I am sure people are bored to death by it but I am predictable. We did find out Jim need some new sweaters. We got hom one but he needs something more festive.

18 BELOW THIS MORNING BUT WHO'S counting

. Well, welcome to our world. When you talk about being up north you have to include the bitter cold and we are in the grips of it. December usually is in the upper 20ies but not this year.

Now the cold comes- Burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

I was out shoveling ar 5am so thr dogs could go out to do their business, let me tell you it is at least 10 to 20 below windchill so welcome to my world. Jim's back is better and I am so greaetful because it is just too cold out there. We got a ton more of snow, I found only one of my snowmobile gloves. Where oh where are you other glove. I have the fireplace and boy oh boy do we need it. Again thank you Heidi for my Emu slippers.

Here it is Wednesday and it's Snowing, Snowing, Snowing, the Old Man is Snoring

Well let me tell you we are enjoying the snow. I need to get the snow shoes on, I here it is going to be really cold so I need to get out before it's below zero, it is going to be 18 below by Friday and that is soon. I really need to learn the new snow blower. Jim's back is out and hurting. I brought him in a walker and back brace from the pole building. I found my Dad's electric mattress pad but have to get the right extension. I have been up since 4am and I am about ready for a nap, it is 8am. Jim is starting a new book, I ran a bunch of errand's and I had Jim take my carpet cleaning machine, it's for the church carpet and put it in the basement. I just need to buy shampoo. That will be a big job. I shampooed 1/2 of the basement before, I probably should do the runner upstairs too. Here it is 10am on Wednesday, I think maybe Bible study will be cancelled today, it is still coming down like crazy, I pulled the snow thrower in to the shop and turned the heat on. I know I need to make some Christmas cookies. I guess I had better take out butter for whole wheat Russian Teacakes. My favorite and Jim's is Thumbprints. I think I will fill them with dates this year. Yummy. I had best get on doing some Church business, I put $1000 from checking in to savings. I couldn't believe when they wanted me to write out a check, I suggested they just move it around and she finally came up with a piece of transfer they use for a phone transfer, it did have a box for other. Hello, I just sometimes wonder why it't not their first idea to make doing business with customers easier, why do we have to suggest it. Here I am venting, silly me, I sometimes forget what work was like sometimes, at least the frustrating part, and that's a good thing. I don't know if I will be going down to the South end of the cities this weekend. Lots of snow for them too and getting across the cities isn't for the light of heart. I had my accident about 6 years ago when I wrecked the Mercury and fractured my sternum. I took Skye to the Chanhassen Dinner Theater with Dot and Holly. Well off to Church work. End of year is coming and I need to get my WELCA checkbook in order. Do an end of year financial too. Yuck. Put a pork roast in the oven in my new Dutch Oven. I sure like it. Maybe those wonderful hash browns with cream. Have to go look up Heidi's recipe.

He came, he came, in a snow storm no less.

Well, that's done, I even got Jim to put my huge clumsy microwave in the butler pantry on the hall wall and it fit like a glove. Now where have I heard that. I can still see OJ hold his hand up with that stupid glove on. Well you can see he got his just reward but certainly not the way he expected. Just a minute, I have to slip on my Emu slippers, oh Heidi if you only knew what a blessing they have been. Blood just doesn't pump to those little darlings like it used too. AND I am having tiny lights put under the cabinets just like June has. Kenny can somehow put in an electrical switch in the pantry for my microwave. He came and measured and he actually will be making them. He said it only takes about 2 weeks so come January I may start to get things going here. Went over to play cards with June and Linda across the street. They play Golf for quarters. Can't wait. Maybe today. Or probably next week. They have to get ready for the Crafters Luncheon. It was just fun walking in the snow. I need to get the old snow shoes out, we are supposed to get another 8-12 inches on Wednesday. Yahoo, I knitted on a scarf after dinner, I sure felt like my Mom. I wonder if my mom had some of the same feelings on long winter nights! I bet she did. They are such a comfort. We ran some errand's in town, I have to start my new book for book club. "The End of Your Life Book Club" by Will Schwalbe.

THE TEMPLATE MAN IS COMING - THE TEMPLATE MAN IS COMING

I have to deliver fish to two individuals, Audrey and Charlie. Jim caught fish yesterday and is willing to share fresh caught sunnies. I also need to run to church and the library but I had better do it early. Won't miss my guy coming over from Bemidji. This will be short, we are low on Gigs until the 6th. It sure goes fast. Church as always was good, Paul preached and did a super job. Pastor was on vacation. I had a really low key day, I did nothing.

Sunday Morning but events from Saturday

Well, something new today, I bought 12 pack of Jimmy Dean sausage, egg, cheese croissant's to just heat up and gulp down. I eat so badly in the morning I thought I would give it a try, it said to heat it up in the microwave but in all honesty I like using the oven for warming things up. They are really good. The sausage is on the skimpy side bur rather good. At our Clark gas station they had a little kitchen and served sandwiches and pizza and breakfast sandwiches. They made these and it is not as good as the ones that they made but good enough. I will make one for Jim when he wakes up if he wants. He was so wonderful yesterday. When he got back from fishing he washed my floors for me while I went to G.R. Had a good trip but after a couple of hours you just want it over with. I had fun stopping at the car dealership. I took a Buick 2008 out for a spin and liked it very much, it has what you call 3/4 bucket seats. Don't like those but I could live with it. What is so amazing is how clean it is. It is just like new and it has 69,000 miles on it. They want 13,500 but we will see what Loren comes up with. I and Jim just have to be patient. Not a strong trait for either one of us I think. The best thing about the car it has the same 6 cylinder motor that my car has and boy oh boy it gives me pickup when I need it. Enough about the car already. I stopped at the Hill City Thrift store, it's the same one I use for our Kids for Coats drive. I poke d around and what is so funny about the store is they have so much new stuff from Macie's it is just funny. I found a bran d new pink one size fits all robe for $6.00, it washed up beautifully and of course I found a couple pair of silver earrings for $2 & $3 each, both from Macies. I don't even know how to spell Macies. Went on my way to G.R. Stopped at Target. We have a beautiful Target store. It is funny but the customers at Target usually look pretty good and the customers at Waalmart, not so svelt. Is that a word. I purchased new trays for my coffee table. They are the same metallic red but they are oval. They look wonderful, also found a red long sleeve draped neck tshirt on sale. Off to Cub. Needed to get suet for the birds. Some other stuff and off to Wal-mart. Finished up my shopping but I did spend some time looking at their flowers. A poinsettia With such brute shiny red leaves. I should have purchased one but I will after I get back from next weekend. Off to home. Had a 4 oz. Steak, huge salad and wine for dinner. Really yummy and I am staying away from sweets for the time being. We will see if it helps, can't hurt. I sure was tired, went to bed exceptionally early and only work up twice and able to get back to sleep right away. Once at 2:30 to let the dogs out, Makons just wolfs at you and then once I get up he does the same thing to Otto, he has to have Otto go outside with him. Save me from myself. Well have to get ready for church, it is The First Sunday of Advent today so they will be lighting the first Christmas candle. I love the Sundays in December. I will have to either go to church with Nancy on Sunday or take Skye. We will see how the week goes.

HERE IT IS SATURDAY ALL READY

I am almost hopeless when it comes to tech stuff. Can you believe it is December 1st tomorrow, a busy month December is. I need to get a luncheon together of some women. I haven't written since Wednesday I think, not much news. I really need to mop the kitchen again, it is something you can do almost daily. Cooking sure takes it's toll. Yesterday all I did was clean the church with Jim, and we did rather a good job too, I had my yearly physical in the afternoon, I am gaining weight like mad, have to get that under control. II don't want the nickname of fatty Patty. Went over to June and Linda's for coffee, mother were putting up their tree. Linda seems so all in. Her crones you know. No energy, that is who we clean the church for. I think of how I eat and how she must have to eat. Can't go there. Watched the Barbra Streisand special on Public TV last night. Wonderful as always and can her son sing. He does have a gift. Looks just like her. I am trying to remember Thursday, oh heck that was Thanksgiving - I had a blast, made a huge chicken, sweet potato casserole - scalloped corn, stuffing with onions, mushrooms, celery, craziness, toasted walnuts, yummy, mashed potatos and gravy. Stuffed myself. I just know I would do the same thing even if I was alone. I had so much fun putting everything together, we had wonderful pecan pie that I made Tuesday. It really turned out. We ate about 2pm and just chilled out the two of us. Jim went ice fishing to Leech Lake on Friday by himself and today he is going up to Cutfoot Sue with Leon our neighbor. They are both crazy about ice fishing. I may run in to G.R. Just for giggles and to get out of the house. He told me I had better not get a microwave for the stove. I really would like Kenny to rip out the cupboard above the stove but I will have to have Kenny here and see how feasible it is. Jim told me in no uncertain terms had I show up with a microwave.

RUMM, RUMM, RUMM

I am working on sounding like a car, so do ire again, RUMM RUMM RUMM - there that's better. Jim is buying me a new car and giving Carol Gildersleeve, that is the name of my 2002 Buick Park Avenue. It's off white and has seat warmers, you love that in Minnesota. He is looking at a 2009 Buick Lucerne 4D sedan. Brown with Grey interior, sounds heavenly. Nice little V6. He has Loren so who knows what we will end up with, he may even go to the Auction with Loren. Will be fun anyway, I just want American made, may sound silly but that's how I feel. The one he is looking at sounds too good to be true. What fun it would be. Have to not think about it so much. I get like a kid in a candy store. I sure am having fun. Yesterday got my pie made for church last night, we of course saw Helen, she runs the kitchen at the church. Service was wonderful, Bruce is a lay-minister and he did a wonderful job with the service, theme "Attitude of Gratitude". Isn't that something we all need more in our life. Offering was for our local food shelf. I will be working there in December. We saw Charlie, dale and Gwen, Joanne and Audrey, Mary and Betty. Fran so Bethany had at least 10 out of the 40 that were there. We were well represented. We also bought 2 wreaths there youth were selling. Brought som leftover pie home. Half of my pecan was left. There were so many pies and only 40 of us. Saw 4 Pastors there so that was nice. Yesterday I washed my floors, vacuumed, today I want to really get the bathrooms clean. Yesterday I also fixed up and decorated the fireplace. Looks great. Candles burning, lights blazing. I am a real sentamentalist love making the house smells and feel like Christmas. Have more to do. I also tried to get a hold of Kenny my carpenter so I can find out how interested he really is in doing the job here. I will try him again today. I have so many special things on my tree, I have to find Gene Kelly, I found his poster for Sining in the Rain but I wonder where he is. Will be fun looking for him. Went over to June and Linda's for coffee yesterday, Linda is doing better. That Crones has really taken it's toll on her. Jim has worked on cleaning the church with Sue and Gary.

IT'S TUESDAY ALREADY

I can't believe how fast the weekend went, during the day I made my mashed potatoes, yes with 8 oz. Of cream cheese too, makes them so rich, made a new sweet potato recipe and ire was OK but not great, won't make that one again, made a wild rice mushroom broccoli thing, good, stuffing of course and corn casserole, Carmel Apple pie, crust was not perfect but I have that figured out and a perfect pecan pie. I have one in the oven for tonight. We have our Thanksgiving Service at The Congreational Church at 7pm tonight with pie after and they needed 3 pies from Bethany. I said I would do one. My pecan pie is really good. Putsy but delicious. I sent my Krumkaka Iron home with Skye and she is having a ball with it. We had a wonderful Turkey dinner. Our neighbor made us a wonderful pumpkin dessert, gave the recipe to Dot and she made it for company she had and it was a big hit. On Saturday night we all watched "Oz, the Great and Powerful". On December Skye and I are going to the Ordway with Hope. Too fun. We will be seeing "The Wizard of Oz". We are too lucky. Wonderful Laura put all the decorations on my tree for me. What fun for me. Just had some of the pumpkin dessert for breakfast. I be bad. It was too fun having all the kids home at the same time, doesn't happen that often. Christmas at Mac's this year. Will be fun. Monday we went to the Rapids to shop. Boy did it snow. What fun and so beautiful. We picked up our new storm doors and we had Bob out from Floor to Ceiling Tile and we measured for carpet and flooring and new counter. Will take some time to do but how beautiful it will be.

Well here it is Thursday CRAFTER TODAY

We had a good day yesterday, I shampooed and vacuumed until I was too pooped to pop! It will be the last time on three of my floors. There goes little Makons off of his bed in front of the fire. She is such a pretty dog. She sure sheds and we have to vacuum bunches. Jim does a good job of brushing her. I went out to the Barn and snow was Gentey coming down - I have to remember to put my lights on when the group gets here. I worked on the lights outside yesterday, and it was beautiful, 47 degrees I hear. Today wiil be different, heard we will have a high of 20. I wish you could see Little Otto. I have a hearth of about 18 inches, it is flat to the carpet. He is on the beautiful green marble. Warmth of the fire. One loaf of bread out. Worked hard yesterday, felt good, went to bible study on Matthew, it is fun and very interesting. It's Nancy S., Audrey, Gail, Jean and I and of course Pastor. Teresa came to town and took nancy Green to Dr. S I didn't have to. Believe me it is a pleasure to take her. We have a special group of people at Bethany. I have to remember to get some soup containers today, busy getting ready for kids coming tomorrow. I bought cheese and summer sausage and grapes for a snack to go with the Banana bread. We love to eat. My God could anyone have more in life than I do? I am so blessed. Jim is so wonderful and we do fight. Sometimes it's so silly, we end up laughing. I find I am far more irritable when I am tired. Going to make pecan Sandies this morning, have WELCA tonight. Will be an interesting meeting.

WEDNESDAY AND THE LIBRARY

I have to laff, if I went up those back steps of the Library once it was 15 times.  It is like claiming Mount Everest, just think those steps were put in when the depot was built a very long time ago.  The steps aren't even the same, they are different heights by an inch or two in some cases.
It was fun and we accomplished so much, I cleaned, sorted paperbacks and carried a carful of stinky old books to recycling.  I made two trips and stopped at the Muni for boxes.
We were there 3 hours and really got a lot done.  6 women at least.
We all care so much about the library.
Didn't do much when I got home so I had to really get at it this morning and I already have the office/sewing room shampooed. Now the guest room and hall.  It is so nice when the carpet is clean and with little Otto I need to clean it often.
Jim had an appointment in Sartell, at least 2 1/2 hours from here.  He is yet getting a different pair of hearing aids.  Poor man, he is loosing his hearing more and more every year.
He called on his way home and he had lunch with Loren, our friend that owns a car dealership.  I will be getting a new used car.  I am sure another Park Ave.  the ride is superb.  Jim called Skye and is giving my old car to her.  I won't have to worry so much about her driving.
Well here it is 5:30am and I already have one room shampooed.  My last time on some of these floors.  Our carpenter came yesterday morning.  Kenny Ahlbom and he can't get at it right away but we are going to go ahead and order our stuff.  New carpet for Day Room and our bedroom, new linoleum that looks like maple flooring and new counter top and back splash area.  So excited and so surprised about a newer car.  I will be naming my new car Carol Gildersleve because of my last two cars.  My Green park avenue was from her.  Now I have a white one and it will be fun to see what color my next one is.
Must be a 4 doors and have heated seats.
We are in Minnesota after all.
Back to the shampooing of the floors, even little Otto got a bath yesterday.
Llater.

TUESDAY ALREADY

Where does the time go, I can't believe it was Friday when I last blogged.  Well here we are well into Thanksgiving week for me.  Kids will be home this weekend.  I am so excited.  It is a busy week and I have been doing, doing, doing.
Yesterday on Monday I did a bunch of laundry in the morning and in the afternoon we went to Floor to Ceiling Tile and picked out new Formica counter top, back splash, flooring and carpet.  That will set us back, no profit this year on our investments or I should say this is the profit.  So glad Jim was with me,  changed our mid on the flooring, the linoleum will look like maple flooring.  I love it and the counter top changed and will match the flooring and cupboards much better.  Kenny our carpenter comes today and measures and gives up a date when he can start.  Hope it will be sometime in December.  We will see.
Went grocery shopping,  Jim bought a bunch od deer suet for the birds.  You should have seen

The Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) is a very large North Americanwoodpecker, roughly crow-sized, inhabiting deciduous forests in eastern North America, the Great Lakes, the boreal forests of Canada, and parts of the Pacific coast. It is also the largest woodpecker in the United States, except the possibly extinct Ivory-billed Woodpecker.

I saved the picture of it bur I am not clever enough to put it on my blog.  

Well this is interesting.  Trying to pick out print I can read well.  This is overkill but I hate to mess with it too much, I might erase the whole thing.
Went to Lion's meeting last night.  Had Turkey dinner, stuffing was so bad,  turkey was good, the potatoes at home are so much better bur we had 35 people there and it has to be hard to cook for that many.
I can't believe that the year is almost over, how fast time goes. I have such a good time I can hardly stand it.  And the kids home this weekend.  YIPEE SKIPEE, I am going to get to the kitchen and make some pecan Sandies, so yummy.   Saving iceberg
cream containers for krumkake.  Learned a new trick when I mix them up.  We see if it makes them nice and lighter.  



I need to get busy.  I am de cluttering.  Makes me feel good.
Can you stand it I actually figured out how to get a picture of the bird and that is exactly how they look.  I was at my desk in my office/sewing room, it's the yellow room, I love that room, it's such a happy room.
The guest room is either the Rabbit Room or the Blue Room.  I like Rabbit Room, I am crazy about Rabbits, little Otto I know is part Rabbit, Ozzie callers him Hip-pity Hop because he hops rather than runs.  Anyway I looked up out the window and there was my first woodpecker of the winter.

SATURDAY

We get shots in our eyes to keep things in check, we both get a drug called evastin through shots in our left eye's.  Jim had histoplasmosis which is a fungas the said he got from birds and I had hardening od the artery in my left eye and the shots help disperse the blood I think.  Vision is impaired In our left eyes but Jim's is far worse than mine and I worry he will go blind in that eye, his Mom and Dad both had macular degeneration in their eyes and Lillian finally just closed her eyes and gave up her vision.  I also have glaucoma in both eyes so for us looking at cataract surgery is the last thing we are concerned about.  We are doing fine with it but California Sharon was wondering what was with the eyes so I thought I would explain.  I want you to know we laff because we get our shots at the same time.. How many couples shoot up together.  Weird huh.
I can't remember what I did Saturday. I always seem to be busy.
Sunday church and I went to visit June and Linda.  So fun, enjoy their company so much.  We are planning the neighborhood Christmas party.  It will be across the street at their house.  We will have a dozen of us there.

FRIDAY ALL DAY

Had crafter's in the AM on Thursday, picked up Lorretta and Audrey and met Marcia at the church.  We all went over to Elaine's, I have it next Thurs. We do enjoy ourselves.  From crafter's we drove on to Longville to Patrick's.  We honored Janet.  She is moving to Maple Grove and having a hard time of it.   She has been in the Remer area for 80 some years.  It must be difficult.  I have moved and started over in many places and always adjusted well.  It sure takes time but joining a church and having it be the center of my life has worked for me.  There were 14 of us at the luncheon.  A very fun time.  They have  really good food at Patricks.
I came home for an hour and headed in for a short stint at the Library.  Had a nice dinner at home.  My 3rd night with the Cpap machine was rough but last night went better but I have been awake since 3am, laid there for almost an hour and finally said enough of that.  I am fasting today so I can get my lab work done and I can't put it off another day so good luck with that.  I picked out a cookie recipe and will make that when I am done blogging.  Pecan Sandies.  They are so very yummy and I have never made them.
I put together 2 dozen sandwiches.  $1 a sandwich I figure.  It is good to know how much it cost to make funeral sandwiches.  Will get to church by 9am to set up, will stop off at the clinic to have my blood work done first.  Funeral is at noon.  I may have to so more water jugs, I filled 12 of them.  Jean and Roger will be there and Gary.  I will get Jim to come in.
Tonight is wine club.  I will pick up Janet.  I think Denise will pick up Nancy and it is at Georgene's.
Will be fun.  I will bring Door County wine.  Maybe an appetizer.
Well nothing else new.  I am almost done scraping out my sewing room and I have to get busy planning what I am going to do.  We will see.  I wish Kenny would get back to me on the counters.  It could take months.  White marble print with a white back splash of small shiny white bricks.

THURSDAY IN THE AM AND BUSY DAY FOR ME

Well I made Heidi's famous carrot potato soup and took a half loaf of banana bread and chibati rolls to Jane Wynan that just got out of  hospital.   She is weak but healing.
I went in to church after I dropped Nancy green off at her Dr appt.  I just didn't like how the tables were arrange in the basement.  We got as a gift the Charlotte tables.  Twelve 72 inch round tables.  Seats eight comfortable.  I managed to sell 6 of our old tables.  They were huge and cumbersome.  Basement looks great.  I had to do some final rummage sale clean up.
Wednesday night was our big Lion's Zone meeting at Deer haven Super Club.  Fun, I donated a basket I purchased at our Fall Bazaar for one of the door prizes and we had an auction and I bid on a collection of 3 paintings for $25.   Was a surprise to me but I couldn't let them go for $20.  Something for Andrew.  We had a wonderful chicken dinner.  Nothing better than broadside chicken.  Wonderful Gail even switched with me so I could have white meat.  The dear.
Got home by 8:30, 9ish.

Wednesday Afternoon

Went to Grand Rapids after book club yesterday.  Had lots to do, don't like driving home after dark because of the deer, only saw a few in the ditch.  Little heads alert.  You always wonder if they will dart out.
I had thawed out a smoked pepper turkey breast.  Had it on some really nice multigrain ciabatta rolls.  Yummy.  Got through night #2 of my C-pap machine.

Sleep Apnea

Yes me too.  Sever Sleep Apnea.  I have the C-Pap machine.  I don't even know how to spell it.
Made it through one night with the machine, of course you have to realize I only sleep until 4am..  I only got up once, unusual.  It sounds like there are many benefits.  Living for one.. My blood oxygen levels get pretty low during the night.  Not good.  Anyway a new way of sleeping for PJ.
You can get used to anything I am told.
I sure hope I get used to being an officer of WELCA.  so far I seem to be a cog in the wheels but I am not going there.  I just want to have fellowship with fellow Christians.  I seem to be not always be right for the board at times.  I will work on that.
You sure hear a lot of shooting in the morning.  Deer opener.  I think John is coming up thisThursday to hunt.  No deer for him yet.
Book club today, spent yesterday cleaning out closets, it seems all I do is move stuff from one place to another.  I know I drive Jim nuts.  He is such a good egg about it.
Talking my white book cases to the Library.
I just want to relax and enjoy the holidays, kids will be coming up not this weekend but next weekend.  Have work to do so I had best get at it.

ANOTHER MONDAY

Well yesterday Jim really helped me out a lot.  We first went to church, it was Thank Offering Sunday  and we raised $250.  The premis is you put change in a jar whenever ver you are thankful for something and it is done all over the ELCA to help women.  I just emailed our Pastor's wife.  I want to know specifically who the funds serve.  I know it helps in many ways but what ways?

Jim went fishing at the hot pond after church, I continued packing up my sewing room.  It will be so wonderful to maybe get it organized.  Skye said go to pointers but I just couldn't find anything.
Later

OK THIS WILL REALLY MAKE YOU SICK

I am listening to Christmas music.  I have been ever since I had Jim put up my tree.  Makons is giving me the "Look".  I know he wants something, but what.
It was outside.
I have had a wonderful week.  Not doing much.  Been too fun.  I am workin on de-cluttering and that may just take the rest of my life.
I really don't remember much of this week but I was busy.
Monday of course was my favorite, shot in the eye.  Can you stand it, not one but two.  Jim sometimes gets three.  You don't feel it very often but you can hear the needle go in your eye.  Very creepy.  Oh I am sick for sharing but it makes me laff!
I have been trying to add a picture but gave up.
Jean at the Library is going to teach IPad classes after the first of the year.  I can't wait, it makes me feel like such an idiot.
Don't we embrace technology.
Did my devotion's this morning, it was on temptation - we'll let me tell you, even for an old fool like me there are lots of temptations out there.  Kill me, I am working on them.
My wonderful River has a 19th birthday yesterday.  He is a wonderful boy.  Excited about seeing them all this month.  TOGETHER.
I just talked to Nancy Green on the phone, she is waiting for her cat-scan at St Mary's Hospital in Duluth.  I told her to remember that we can provide rides for her when she gets home and house work.  Jim is so good at it.  Love that man.
Tuesday I ran Skee over to see Nancy at Grand Village in G.R.  We all had lunch together and was too fun.  I also stopped in to Floor to Ceiling Tile.  Poor poor customer service but found what I wanted.
Wednesday we had Bible study but it was cancelled, no heat at church.  Thursday we had crafter's at Lorretta's.  Love going and visiting.  Lorretta made the best Jello Pumpkin Pie Refrigerator dessert.  Too yummy.
Jim took my car to G.R. For an oil change.
Tonight we go to Patrick's for dinner.  Fun.  We are meeting Joan and Bob Alley.  He was the interim pastor at Bethany for a year.  Wonderful people.
Better get at the de-cluttering.  Will get a hold of Linda and empty her van in our pole building this morning too.
Happy day!

MONDAY AFTERNOON

We are sitting in Dr Reynolds office in Baxter waiting to get shots in our left eyes.  Aren't we the lucky ones.
I went over to June and Linda'a for coffee this morning.  Sure paid off, they had a bag of corn candy and they wanted to be rid of it.  Hummmmmmmmm, it found a home with me and I mixed it with some peanuts.
I am working on my Christmas tree, I have 1000 lights on it and we will just let it sit that way for a few days.  I like getting it up around HOLLOWEEN.  Too soon you say, not I say. I could be dead tomorrow.
Had LEFSE for breakfast and brought some to June's also.
We stopped at Target today.  I wonder how they follow your purchases, big Brother is always watching you know.

MONDAY MORNING

I don't remember any group pictures taken this year.  My Alexis, River and Autumn couldn't make it this year so it was harder.  Alexis was going to come on Saturday but got sick.
Lefsa was fun, it was in Mac's new house, I should say remodeled.  It is lovely, this year it was Brother Mark, Sister Heidi, her three kids, Joey's girl Alley and Erin's husband Josh and 1 year old son, Jackson, and Skye and Jim.  Mac & Laura hosted and after we finished rolling out 32 1/2 dozen rounds I got to take Hope and Hudson for a walk to the park, it was such special time and we walked to Mission Hills park.  Maybe 6 blocks from their house.  We went out for pizza after.  Fun.
It was really a good weekend, stayed at Skye's because of the dogs.  I enjoy being there.  Had my hair done.  It is so wonderful seeing how much she has accomplished upstairs.

We Are Almost To Skye's

Ok here we are in Elk River, almost to Skye's, we had a good day yesterday, I did the meat raffle, we sold 6 games, I only got taken advantage of for $1.00 when a table of 6 came in. They either took an extra ticket or or shorted me $1.00.  I also had a liquor basket raffle.  $103.00 worth of booze for a $5 ticket.  I sold 48 tickets.  Good for the "Lion's".
Jim worked at the school, doing Trunk or Treat.  Something new this year.

LEFSE

I was going to spend time online today but it will have to wait till we get in the truck, big day, busy getting ready going to Skye's.  I still don't know how soon Ali can make it, she had the wrong weekend down, thanks to me.  Busy yesterday, I worked hard on making dinner for everyone on Sat and Friday night and gett the potatoes ready, finished up the spuds today.  I think we are doing 30# this year! kill me! we will be rolling forever.
Brining a ton down to Skye's.
Later!

Pictures See Older Post For Today

My Guy,

My Girls!

My Mac!

I HAVE DONE IT THIS TIME!

I just can't believe I am that stupid.  We changed the LEFSE weekend but we never let Alexis know, she doesn't get group text.  In my not communicating with my kids often enough I screwed this up.  It's the second time in a year we get together as a family.  Totally my fault but it won't change her schedule.  It won't bring Alexis, River and Autumn to Mac's this weekend.  I feel like such a twit.  Heide wanted a different weekend and then changed back because Joey couldn't come.  We will just have to always go with the first weekend in November.  I will be broken hearted if they can't make it.

Yesterday was a free day.  I had to make three bank deposits for church, we made over &1000 from the craft fair and bake sale. We WELCA women have raised over $6000 for the church this year.  What an accomplishment.  What a lot of work.

After I went over to Linda and June's for coffee and Jim joined me.

I wuld like to learn how to put pictures from my phone to my blog.

I just was able to select one, it is Skye's dog, NICO BLUE.  But not successful in getting others.  Heck I can't even find others.

I don't know why I can't get I. To any current pictures.  What a pain technology is sometimes.  Especially at the hands of a twit!

I was so tickled.  I found my stylist pen.  It is so much easier to text and type with.  It was in the bottom of some bag.  

The kids are up and I need to get ready, will need to leave around 7:30 to get to Crosby by 9am.

BIG DAYI

Picked up Skee Green for church.  His wife Nancy is in the same Rehab center I was in.  She is on Coumadin and for some reason sprung a leak in her groin and lost the ability to walk.  It will come back after the blood collected dissipates.   It will take time.  Nancy is so active, at 80 she still golfs, and she played softball till she was 50.  She really is amazing, and I dearly love both she and Skee, Skee's health is rather fragile  these days, we almost lost him 2-3 years ago and he never made it back to his former strength.  He doesn't drive anymore but there are a lot of us around that do.
We had a big day, it was really fun, church, Jim went separate because Martha was stuck in the elevator and panicked and started pounding on the emergency switch.  Kill me, no one seems to want to be calm, they just panic and the pastor can't seem to retain the procedure to get out.  Love him to death but the small things just seem to leave him.
We are reading a book in book club he recommended "The Wolf at Twilight", a a res. book.  I was resistant at first because I only want to be entertained when I read, what a twit I am, do I never want to learn anything.   I need to see the "Paradigm" film again.  Guess who can be resistant to change.
Enjoying the book thought so far.  He is part American Indian and fascinated by it.   I would be to but how can you be fascinated by being 3/4 Norwegian and 1/4 Swed.  We just are!
We had our baskets downstairs and some of our crafts from the sale still downstairs along with bake goods.  I got the pies sold, you just guilt people into buying them and it works.  I can't wait till the bank opens and we have a final count of our money.
Gave Skee a ride home after Church, I also gave Raquel a ride but dropped her off early along with cookies for the afternoon concert.
We had the "Grand Rapids Male Chorus", at church in the afternoon.  They were awesome.  25 men blending their voices together in such a beautiful way.  I am going to have to look up their website.
I picked Skee up for that, helped Gwen and Betty out in the kitchen,  Teresa and Duane were here from Brainerd.  What a concert.  First time using our new round tables for entertaining.  We even sold some more crafts.
Got to call Heidi and see how her girls weekend went and Mark about our upcoming LEFSE weekend.  Talked to Mac this morning.

SUNDAY, the aftermath.

I say that because I am tired.
I think I woke up three times last night with leg cramps.  It must mean I am lacking something.  Maybe brains.  I don't know but it is driving me crazy.  Legs, be gone.  I mean cramps, be gone.  I really feel like I am going to die from pain when the cramps strike.  Time to see my Doctor I guess.
Let's see, what to report.  The sale went well, we sure had fun, bought chances on some baskets from the craft sale, was fun.  Found some earrings and of course a new watch.  Kill me I have so many but they look like jewelry, this one has a double row of blue beads.  I love it, and for $5.00.   I found some wonderful jelly from Dawn.  She makes the best jelly.  Some earrings of course, buy two pair for $3.00 each and get the third pair free.  Now can you beat that.
Certainly found enough stuff at our booth to buy.  We made nearly $800.00 with our bake goods and crafts.
It is Sunday and we have church and our Men's chorus this afternoon.  I am bringing Skee to both.  Will be fun, Jim is going fishing to the hot pond today and not available.
Today is Reformation Sunday, we wear Red to church.
I hear Jim up, it is going on 8, I had best get at it, busy day and we are cooking a chicken today, FUN,  with mashed potatoes and gravy, maybe some stuffing.  We will see.
Later.

FRIDAY - THE COUNTDOWN

Well yesterday was super busy but I think almost every day I have managed to go across the street.and have coffee with June and Linda.  I had to have them be guinnie pigs for my pie, bread and cookies.
I have some serious pie making to do today, I made at least 6 dozen sugar cookies and 10 dozen oatmeal-date-pecan cookies, had to have Jim bake most of the oatmeal ones because I had WELCA and Bible study, it is Deborah we studied last night.  I have the book "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World".  I will read a few pages when I do my deviations in the morning.  What would I do without the quite time in the morning.  I so wish you could see Makons in the morning.  She lies on her back making goofy noises just hoping you will notice her.  She sure is a good girl so much of the time except when she wants to bite everybody.
I have 4 pies to make today so I had best get at it, I managed to write out a few notes today, I still like to send cards.
We are getting ready for LEFSE next weekend, hip hip hooray!

RUM RAISEN APPLE PIE

I got everything ready yesterday and made it today, it sure looks pretty.  The proof is in the tasting.  I will rake 2 pieces over to June and Linda's to see what they think, of course I have Jim who is the ultimate taster.  It was Jim that said he wanted raise a in his apple pie so I went online.  We have to wait and see now.  It sure was fun.  I mean how mulch fun can one person have in a day.
Have to call Heidi. Later.

It is Monday morning and it is going to be a busy week

I need to finish emptying out the camper, what a job, it is like moving.  I need to go over to June and Linda's for coffee this morning.  Lots to see and talk about.  We have our Fall Bazaar this weekend and I have a funeral down in Minneota, it is a 5 1/2 drive from here.   Nancy' Mom died in her sleep two days ago.  What a wonderful way to go.
I plan on baking apple pies and am going to make one today to start with.
 We had such a good time in Door County.  Our last dinner out was The White Gull Inn.  It was expensive but delicious.  I brought home 2 bottles of wine for Carrie, non I was interested in, one a Cranberry I think and one a Rasberry, she mentioned a winery to us and we found it, it was fun.  I got a Cab and a Guerstameiner for wine club.
We went to a couple of other ones but the real fun were the drives.  The colors were spectacular.  It was snowing out when we came home and it started again just now.  Have to shower.  Later.

Saturday and our last day here.

The time has flown. On Wednesday we drove the whole island.  It was a fun drive.  We went all the way to Northport where you catch the ferry to Washington Island,   It was $26 for the car and $13 per person, we weren't really interested in going but it was fun going between Gils Rock and Northport, they have a road that swivels, maybe I am not explaining it well, it is much like the crazy curves road in San Francisco, too fun.  They have puzzles and stuff with the road as a subject.
We had fun going through Ellison Bay, Sister Bay, Ephrain, Fish Creek, Juddville, Egg Harbor, Baileys Harbor, Jacksonsport, Whitefish Bay and Sturgeon Bay.
On Thursday we mostly went North as far as Egg Harbor, Jim ate at the camper and I stopped at a McDonald's for their wings.  For dinner we went to The White Gull Inn, the guy who owns it is a frat buddy of Jon Fryxell.  It was a fancy dinner and yummy.  No disappointment there.  We have visited two wineries on the island.  I don't even remember which ones but I want to visit more today.  There are some big doings at one of the communities today with a parade and all.  It rained late yesterday, we went down to Sturgeon Bay yesterday for some shopping and on the way ate breakfast at The Town Hall Bakery and it was superb.  $35 but super good.  The island is expensive, who knew.
We stopped at a county park, Cave Point County Park, I guess it's the only county park in a State Park.  It is in White Fish Dunes State Park, we didn't get to the Dunes but walked all over the County Park.
The kids just loved it.
Sure is sunny today, little Otto threw up during the night so we had to change the bedding, ulnar just like having a kid.
I here Jim, need to beat him to the shower.
A new adventure awaits us today!
By the way the leaves are spectacular and it is at peak!

FRIDAY - FRIDAY - FRIDAY

We have done so much in just two days, where to start, it would be fun to pick out some highlights.  Let's see, on Wednesday we drove all around the island, it was cold and rainy but we just didn't care.   We did go to a county park, it had a really long dirt driveway but was so worth it, there was an orchard three quarters of the way there and leaves here are at their peak so it's so wonderful with every turn in the road we see a new view with Lake Michigan as a backdrop, when we got to the end of the park that overlooks the lake it was sheer cliffs of limestone, it so reminded me of scenes in "The Last of the  Mohichans."  That was one of my favorite movies, the sceanry and of course Daniel Day Louis.  We took some wonderful pictures and since I did bring my camera but forgot the charger I am silly in that area.  All our pictures are on my and Jim's phone.  Technology, is it truly our friend, it is if you know what you are doing, and we don't.
We had breakfast in Baileys Harbor at a well known place, The Harbor Fish Market & Grille, it was a lovely place, Jim of course had his stuffed Cherry stuffed French toast and of course everything in Door County involves Cherries.  So many cherry orchards and apple orchards.
We had dinner that night at Casey's BBQ and Smokehouse in Egg Harbor because Jim heard about their ribs, he thought were super, so were the sweet potatoe fries.   I of course didn't have the ribs and regreted it.  
I am going to have to run because Jim is up now and want's to get going.  

IT IS TUESDAY - I THINK

I am trying to finish my last entry but it is not cooperating so to heck with it.
We drove from Ashland WI to Mosinee WI yesterday and the drive was lovely, leaves are looking good, for a part of the trip I had my eyes closed, I got up at 4am, anyway Jim was lucky enough to see a Bear chewing on something in the woods.  Heck when Sharon was up in August and we were driving from Federal Dam to Grand Rapids she saw a bear cross the road and I had my eyes closed then too.  Do we see a pattern here?
The name of the campground is Lake DuBay Shores and we are located in Central WI on the Wisconsin River.  Big Lake but the campgrounds is 50 years old and kind of dumpy, at least the sites seem to be.  I had a nice fire in the afternoon and I had a bag full of driftwood to start the fire with and you wouldn't believe the pine cones just lying around.  They were so full of sap or pine tar that it really was a nice fire and we had some logs from Carrie and David's Cabin.
I wish you could hear the rain, Dot would go nuts, she loves rain so much, we are just waiting for it to get light out.
What miserable weather.
I have a brother and sister, Lynn who will be 74 and Sonja who will be 76 today.  They share same day birthdays.  I talked to my brother Mark last night and he was in at Buba's Bar with Lynn yesterday afternoon, it was already raining in Minneota, I knew I had better have my fire yesterday because the rain was coming.  They are also saying the nice weather is over with.  What do they know, is nice weather a state of mind.  It may have to be.

Here it is Monday already.

We have done so much this week, but the thing we have done the most is relax.  It has been heaven.  We got here Tuesday and we spent the time just setting up.  On Wednesday we scoped out the lovely city of Ashland WI.  We are camped at the city park and have the best spot here.  It's a pull through parallel to a bay on Lake Superior.
One thing this city is known for besides being on Lake Superior is the murals that are all over the buildings downtown.  We had so much fun walking the dogs downtown taking pictures.  I used my Ipad for pictures and now have to figure out a way to get them to my blog.  That in itself will be interesting.  We did a little shopping, I really needed some new turtlenecks and they had quite a sale on them at a local store downtown.  Moore's Army Surplus Store.  Turns out it was quite a lovely store and huge.  Jim had to go in and get something the first day we were here and he told me about a local production of "The Sound of Music".  Moore's is where you pick up the tickets and since we weren't going to Carrie's cabin until Saturday morning we could go to the play Friday night.  We went back there to buy tickets and it turns out that the owner of Moores have a daughter that is quite talented and is the lead in the play.  Tickets were only $15 and we are excited to go.  The theater only seats 97 so it will be cosy.
The one thing they have is of course a Wal-Mart.  It does come in handy.  I forgot a robe and purchased a fuzzy pull over to keep me warm.  We leave our electric fireplace on at night for heat.  with the down comforter we are snug as 4 bugs in a rug.  Of course the dogs sleep in our bed, it's a king and there is lots of room.
We have had two meals out.  We ate dinner at a restaurant called "Platters", for $70 you would have thought the meal was more memorable but it was OK.  I had whitefish, Jim must have had some pasta, he usually does.  We also ate at a place downtown for lunch.  Beautiful bar, now how can they screw up nachos, but they did, not enough cheese and it wasn't melted, or it was melted and dried and cooled.  Anyway very forgettable but I did have a beer that was made from apples.  Really good.  Apple Ale or something.
By the way the play was splendid.  Marie in the play was not only superb but lovely too.  The other part that was special was Mother Superior and of course all the children were good.
We  went over on Saturday and spent the day with Carrie, David and kids,  It was very overcast, windy and cold.  I was dressed for it.  They have a cabin but it is alll dug up.  No floors and you can't live in it.  Next summer they will get some work done on it.  They have to be 75 feet from the lake in order to add on to the cabin and that seems to be the hold up.  They are trying to create that distance by adding on to the shoreline.  Good luck to them.  What a job they have ahead of them.  They do have a cute shed and have converted half of it to a cute bu

RUMMAGE SALE

That's what I have been up to.  It was a huge success, we made double what I set a goal to make.  About $2300.00.  I was there from 8-5 every day and sometimes longer.  The day of the sale I got there at 6am and we all stayed till 3.  I got there Sunday at 6 again because I helped Gary usher and we had a little hot dog, BBQ lunch for the congregation so I brought tables and chairs up to the narthex for seating.  It all went very well, I made all kinds of crasins, pecan cookies.  We had lots of sweets left from the sale.  There were 4 of us that did 80% of the work.  Ginny, Betty, Linda and I showed up every day and Nancy, Sally, and Darlene each came a couple of days.  You would not believe how helpful the guys were the day of the sale.  I had Pastor Dale, Jim, Paul, Roger to name a few.  Why at the luncheon at the church I let the congregation know I didn't sell any of the large tables and walla I sold 4 on the spot.  Brad, Nancy Johnson's son came right in and helped deliver them.  They were the really big ones, we needed to get rid of some of them because of  the new donation we are getting, we are getting 10 round 72" tables and cart in memory of Charlotte, Judy Gravelles sister.  YIPEE SKIPEE!
I have to admit I am tired and my house has been sorely neglected.  Now I have to get ready for our trip.  We are going to Wisconsin to look at the leaves, to visit Carrie at her cabin and off to famous Door County.
I had to run to church at 5am today to get my creamer.  Out at home.  I really like it in my coffee, it's sugar free but not fat free.
I still have a lot to get rid of, I got a hold of the Orphan Train people and they will be here after we get back.  They take all the clothes, shoes, linens and unbreakable household items.  It helps us a lot, they give them to flood victims and people that are setting up independent living after a rough time.
I had best get at it, my head is still swimming with things to do.  Isn't being a Christian fun.  Or just a good person that likes to help others because I am so blessed.  TYJ!
I need to take some time to smell the roses.  It looks like we may not even go South this year.  Bet we at least get to Texas for awhile.

It's Friday and I am off!

Sound familiar?  I left to see my plastic surgery at 8am, got to my 9:30 appointment just in time.  It was funny because the next morning when I was putting up the Fall Has It All Rummage Sale Posters Denny Stefan was in at my Dermatologist in the adjacent office and they had a laff when they saw my car in the parking lot.  We could have rode together except I had lots to do after.  Nose looks great except for the scar, that could be my new nickname except Disney already is using it in the Lion King.  In 6 months I will go back for a dermabraision, I know Dede had it done for her skin cancer.

Great to have the hole in my nose gone, and the cancer, and the cancer, don't think I am not greaetful.  I thank God daily.

I had lot's of errands to run, went to at least 3 thrift stores, bought some coats, always find some little treasures for myself.  You wouldn't believe the Green Butter Bell, it is so cute.  

Shopped for Groceries too.  Got home at 5p m.  Long day.

BY THE WAY IT IS THE PRINCESSES BIRTHDAY ALEXIS IS THE BIG 40!

I remember my 40th.  That is the year my life changed, I met Jim that year.

Wednesday was a full day.  I went to Janet's and made a couple of trips to the church with my car full.  We had lunch at the coffee shop in town, they make the best wraps.  You know I had a wrap at McDonald's the day before and it was very good.  Of course the French fries and coke went right to my hips.

Janet and I even drove over to Hill City Thrift store but it was closed.  Not open on Mon or Wed.

Will try and hit it this morning.

Thursday was crafter's day, picked up Lorrette, Audrey and met Elaine at church and the 4 of us took off for Bemidji.  They have the best craft store.  Dd some thrift shopping, went toWal-Mart and the Dollar Store and we ate at the Chinese Buffet.  Got Ho me by 5, tended to my baked beans that were in the oven all day, made the sausage, cream cheese and Ro*tels appetizer and I made the canned white chicken, hidden valley ranch one this morning one.  Getting ready for Alexis's birthday party tonight.  Jim and I have a hotel room right nearby with a pool, we will have the Grandkid's.  Too fun.  River, Autumn, Hope and Hudson.  The kids can party at Skye's, we are having hot dogs and beans, will be great.  She is still my Princess after all these years.  I think Jeff was wrong to bail out of the marriage and I don't know why I am having such a hard time with it but I am.  I pray about it a lot.

Well I went to Martha's last night and picked up some rummage, now there is a sad case, she has 7 children and they don't have much to do with her.  It is always everyone else's fault.  Sad.

I made an angel food cake this morning for Skye's fondue.  Will be fun.

Have to run, it seems that is all I do these days is run but it is fun.  I shop a lot too, this coat's for kids keeps me busy.

It's Tuesday and I am off.

I don't even remember the weekend.  It went by so fast, it included being at church and working on the rummage sale.  Off to Dr. Waters for a final check up on my nose.

HOME AGAIN

Been really busy, Thursday I started out hauling stuff in for the Rummage sale, went to Janet's and got a lot of stuff and she has more to come.
Organized some of it at church and I can't tell you how much I miss the Johnson's at church but that is another story, I also went to crafters, it was just Audrey and Lorretta and I but fun.  A little to much negativity for me and I need to get better at handling that.  All that does is pull you down and borders on gossip.  Hate it.  I had hoped I left that behind. It is not who I am.
We had WELCA Thursday night and the meeting went on for 3 hours.  TOO long.
Need to do my minutes of the meeting soon.  While it's fresh, we must have had a dozen women there.
Jim just told me about his dream, he has one every night and they are so stupid.  He loves the telling and laffs all through it.
Got up Friday and made scalloped potatoes.  We had a neighborhood fish fry to introduce some new neighbors.  There was Geri Garoutte, June and Linda, Pat and Bill Lund, his grown son Bill and Pats Mother.  The guest of honor was Linda and Dan Evans.  Teresa were 11 of us.  4 couldn't show up.  George and Millie Boe and Leon and Judy Hoen.
I took a nap after everyone left, oh it was wonderful.

Well here it is almost a week later

So much to report.  Jim is right about one thing.  I have been working non-stop since I have been home.  I just have to slow down.
Let's see.
We stayed at Skye's for 3 nights, had a very nice time.  She is such a wonderful hostess.  We got there on a Sunday night, we drove right to John's and had a fun birthday party for Jim.  John and Pam and Andrew, Rachael and Michael alone with Carrie and David and the three boys, Davis, Avery and Finley.  Pam made some Chili and Rachael and a girlfriend made some wonderful stuffed cupcakes.  John dot Jim the most wonderful Redwing Tennis shoes and Carrie gave him some wonderful Bacon from Wisconsin..
We went to Fred's funeral on Monday, I know it was really hard on Jim.  He saw many many old friends so that was wonderful for him.
We left after the service and reception and had a very nice time viewing Sharon's new townhouse.  I know she doesn't appear too excited but she will love it once she gets settled.  It is quite nice.
We then picked up Skye, a lot of running.  We picked up Chinese and went to Mac's and had dinner outside with Mac, Laura, Hope and Hudson.  We had a fire afterwards, fun. They have gutted their main floor and are putting in new flooring, lighting, new ceilings and new appliances and counter tops.  A huge renovation.  It will be quite lovely.
I am trying to think of how we filled Tuesday, oh yes, Jim went to his old AA meeting and then popped over to his cousin Donna, she shares the same Birthday, new townhouse to view again.  Skye and I went to a couple of home depot's and when Jim got back we picked up 20 sheets of sheet rock, Skye's friend Kevin helped put it upstairs and another Kevin, is going to help her put it up today.  Too exciting for her.  The thought that she actually will get that room done this year.  I just pray she can make payments every month.  Her business is so far able to sustain her but that's all.
It is growing every month but it takes at least 3 years to get off the ground.
We must have had dinner somewhere. I can't remember but Skye was wonderful and got Jim a sour cream raisin pie, his favorite.  We left early Wednesday morning and stopped at Geri and Herb Gustafson in Albertville so I could go to a couple of Goodwill stores for Coats for Kids.  Also went to  
The Hanes Bali outlet store.
We got home around 4 pm TIRED!

U-haul truck broke down and it took 1/2 an hour to go 2 miles!

Well so much for that, we have passed Hinkley, speeding like a demon, I heard Jim tell someone on the phone we have 15 guns to get rid of, we are bringing them to John.
Jim doesn't hunt anymore. Let's see what else did I do last week, I know it was busy.
On Monday Jim had lazier surgery on his eye, we both got shots in our left eyes.
Tuesday  was a quite day, oh ya that was a day I did a lot of running around, worked at church, walked 3 miles with Susan and Jeanne.  I am not going to walk with them anymore, I can't walk as fast as they and as far, I am going to slow it down to 2 miles.
Wednesday I got up early and made a new banana nut bread recipe for Jim's Bible study.  It turned out really good, they ate every piece.  I had a book club meeting at 2pm, was fun, we are going to read "The Long-Shining Waters" for September.
I had stopped by Janet's the day before and picked up some rummage for the sale and we talked about getting some girls together so I asked her who and she mentioned Nancy Green and Gail Martin so I called them and arranged for the three of us to go over to Janet's for dinner Wednesday night and I threw together a cass-soo-lay, as Heidi called it.  It was super yummy.  Sweet Italian sausage and beans.  We all brought something plus wine, we had a real nice time and I know Janet appreciated it so much.

I am not walking today, at least not this morning.

I was so tired after walking yesterday I didn't do ànything until after 2:30 pm.  Wat a joke and then I worked like crazy.
I saw a beautiful fox this morning, close to the house too.  I went in to church yesterday and worked on the basement storeroom, Jim helped me some because he had to be there for the elevator repair man.  We are having a fall rummage sale and it will keep me busy getting ready for it and there is the Coats for Kids.  I am hoping to visit some goodwill stores and do some shopping.

Well we have stop and go traffic on 35W.  YUCK.

Well my how time flys

Today is Tuesday  and I got home Sunday night around 6:30.  We did have a good time at Bug days.  It was good having Nancy with us and next year maybe Dot.  Dot would have a blast.  Good to see Lynn and Maryann, Lynn doesn't look so good but it a nasty disease that rheumatoid arthritis.  Maryann talked a lot about what she will do after "Lynn Passes".  Depressing but she must be looking forward to getting back to CA.  She sure is talking about it.  What to do with Lynn's ashes, his stuff, their place, her stuff, that she has a cousin in CA that said will take care of her, hell she is healthier than my kids and will live forever.  I finally had to walk away.

Left Sunday about 9am.  Stopped at Perkins but it took forever to get service.  Stopped at the Dairy Queen in Winthrop, we all had Sunday's.  Yummy yummy yummy, love for our tummy.

Jim and I went out Monday for shots in our eyes and he also had lazier surgery.  Since it is over 2 hours away and our appointment is at 9:30 we left early.  Poor Jim his eye drained all the way home.

I went over to June and Linda's for a visit.
We had a lovely visit

Went home had a great dinner and walked three miles this morning.
I am tired 12 miles last week and only 3 miles so far this week but 15 miles so far this month.  I just signed up for runtastics.com.


I

BUG DAYS BEHIND US

Well we sure had a good time.
I stayed at Skye's on Thursday night, net Dot at Skye's Salon.
We went to dinner at El Loro's, very nice.  I I love staying at Skye's, I am so comfortable there.

Left at 6am on Friday morning.  BUG DAYS here we come, got to Nancy Deanne's by about 7:20, then we picked up Heidi.  She took over the driving to Minneota and we were on our way by 7am.
We stopped for breakfast at a place we usually stop at.  Cind'y Resteraunt  in Belle Plain.

We got to Marshall around 11am and stopped at Uncle Don's for a Hello.  So glad we did, he will be 90 next July.  He must have been born in 1924, and Stanley was born in 1919.  Don is the only sibling left.  He looks very much like Stanley.  So good to see him, two of his children died last year and he lost two of his son's long ago.  He has two daughters left.

We took off for Minneota by noon, Nancy stopped in to the Lion County Independent to see her sister Karen.  She writes articles for them.  It was only 3-4 blocks from the Facility that Don lives in.

We got to Minneota and it was too fun to get to Mark's.  His new pole building .  His new jute box, did we dance or what.  Nancy has far too much energy.  Does that woman ever get tired.  NO!

Heidi had a good time at her class reunion.  Nancy and I even stopped in for a minute or 5.  Was fun to be at a 40 year reunion.  You can tell my class is getting old.  I didn't run into even one class mate.

A NEW ADVENTURE

I have only a minute.
Just got home from being in a sleep study to see if that Cpap machine would help me.  Wll have a follow up with Doctor.
Have to head out of here by 9am.
Running Jim and truck to Procopio's for engin stuff.
Just got car back, fixed and I am greaetful.
Jim cleaned it up for me for the weekend.
BOXELDER BUG DAYS IN MINNEOTA.
Have an appointment in Piquot Lakes at 10:30 for my eyes.
Will connect up with Dot and Nancy at Skye's Salon by 2pm.
Dinner with the girls.
Off to Minneota tomorrow.
FUN FUN FUN!

IT'S SEPTEMBER AND I LOVE FALL

I have a very very busy September but I feel like I say that every month.
We have our coat drive so I need to get my act together and start shopping for kid coats, our focus this year is K-6.  We will probably start giving them away middle of October plus we are going to have a fall Rummage sale the first weekend in October.
Anyway lets get back to today.  This is my third day of walking and I am up to 3 miles for the month.
I am determined to loose some weight and shift some inches.  I feel like Porky Pig.  It is amazing what an extra twenty pounds can do to make you feel big.
Yesterday I washed clothes all day and today we dropped off my car.  The electrical seat won't budge.  My legs aren't long enough to reach so I have to drive with pillows behind me.  Not exactly a preferred mode of transportation.
I want to go out to the pole building and start going through stuff.
More later.

LABOR DAY

It was so good to have my girls and grand kids home.  While I was camping our son John and his 3 kids and a friend came up for the weekend and from what I gathered Jim was kept busy fishing and they had the two boats out and fished like crazy.  Always love having John and kids here, grandson Andrew was here for a week.  

The girls were home with Autumn and River for two nights and it was fun, we even took the kayak out on Saturday.

Both Ali and Skye helped with a funeral luncheon on Saturday too.  Our 3rd funeral in 2 weeks.  That's busy.

I started walking, today was my second day and Susan and I did 3 miles out on Graves Lake.  It is such a pretty walk.i need to loose 20# and the walking is part of it.  It feels good to be going something.

September is going to be a busy month, gearing up for Coats for Kids.  My WELCA checkbook has $500 in it from the Lions donation and I need to shop wisely to make it stretch.  It's for K-6.

Plus we have a fall rummage sale the first Saturday in October.  

I have Boxelder Bug Days coming up this weekend and I will be in Minneota plus I am doing a sleep study on Wednesday night.  Everyone tells me I have sleep apnea, we will see.  My classmate Nancy is going home with Heidi and I.

Hey I am getting my eyes done.  Will let you know about that next week.

Have to run, want to talk to Linda about starting a Bible study.

Home again Home again Jiggity Jigg

Well I am trying to get caught up.  To say there is a lot of cleanup after a camping trip is almost funny.  You have to clean out the fridge, the bedding, the clothes, clean the carpet, the floors, the throw rugs.  Need I say more.  
Got home on Wednesday and on Thursday I worked Food Shelf, worked it 5 Thursdays this month, our church works it August, December and April.  I won't be able to do April bur sure enjoyed helping out.  There sure is a lot of need out there.  It reminds you of how blessed we really are and makes you think of what else can we do.
I was even able to work at the Lion's meat raffle when Dede was here, I won meat, Dede won meat, we had a good time, that was on a Thursday . night.   This Thursday we had quite the storm,  wind blew like crazy and a tornado dropped down near Swatera just 7 miles from here. I have never seen it so black out.  We even went over to our neighbors basement but most of the storm passed over.

IT'S FRIDAY THE 30th OF AUGUST

So much going on,  Gordy's funeral coming up.  The girls came on Friday, we sold "Wine on a Stick" my idea and it was fun.  At the Fire Hall as part of Harvest Festival.  I of course put Dot and Nancy to work and Sue and Nancy S. worked also.  Good gathering.
Gordy's funeral Saturday.  Sunday Nancy went to church with me and on Monday Jim hauled the camper out to Leech Lake Recreation Park, it's a Corp of Engineer's campground because there is a dam there.  Very nice campground and it is only an hour from the house.  on Tuesday he brought out the kayak.  I know we went to Walker on Friday for lunch at Walker at Chase on the lake other than that we stayed at the campground.  We got up early and ran Nancy to Dot's house to pick up her car and then we were off to the St Cloud Airport to pick up Dede.  Her flight from AZ came in right on time at 1pm.  Dede had been up at my place before but not up North to ant other towns so we hit Bemidji one day and Itaska State Park one day.  They are such great places to visit.  Dot, dede and had a great week and on Friday they jumped in Dot's car back to Mpls.  Dot and I went kayaking at least 5-6 times.  I broke Dot's windshield, just had to force my will in packing her kayak up.  I am such a twit.  We did make it past 46 bouie's all the way to leech lake and it was fun trying to make It each day.  Nancy couldn't go because of her eye surgery and Dede wasn't interested but we had a good time anyway.
Śharon got there on Friday and we went to a salad luncheon on Saturday at Bethany, I made the same old salad but it is a big favorite of everyone.  The strawberry salad.  We had a good time.  We went to Walker one day and to Itaska State Park one day.  I had a funeral on Tuesday, Sharon went on an adventure to Longville, Hackensack and Walker and when I got back from working the funeral we went to Grand Rapids.  We had some fun dinners over the fire.  I had brought a lot of wood from home and we only bought wood one day.  I think during the 2 weeks and 2 days of camping we fried fish in the cast iron skillet over the open fire 4 times.  It was too fun.  Thanks to Jim for all the fish.

SATURDAY

We are not even going to talk about how fast the week can go.  I don't even believe it, well there was no fishing on Sunday and I didn't get my WELCA minutes done either.  I read in church, helped with communion and I probably took the afternoon off, heck it was almost a week ago, who can remember.
Now I remember what I did on Monday.  Jim went fishing with his buddy Gerry down in Crosby and at 10am Monday morning I decided to get my hair done so I hopped in my car and drove down to see Skye.  She colored my hair and did a Brazilian Blow on the ends.  Feels like silk.  Got home by 7:30 Monday evening, that's 7 hours of driving.  Whew!
On Tuesday I had a 9am appointment to have my eyebrown touched up.  I had them tattoed about 5-6 years ago and it was time for a touchup.  What was wonderful thing because I had lost her business card and finally found it about a month ago.  I couldn't remember her name and I knew a touchup was far less expensive than having them redone by someone new.
I made an appt. but when I showed up in Jenkins MN, the place was deserted, called her and they had moved the business to Pequot Lakes.
Got some really bad news on the way home, we lost our neighbor Gordy Lilyquist, he just dropped dead that morning in the living room.  Got over there by noon or so.  Sad sad day.

Sunday Morning and it looks like a great day

I have lots to do today, first off church and I have to do my minutes for WELCA.  I feel like a TWIT. I have put it off so long that I should slap myself.  Today is the day I will do it.
I think today would be a good day for fishing.  Maybe fishing but not until I get my notes done.
I wish I could be two people, more later.

So Much Has Been Going On

It is Saturday night, Jim and I are watching public TV, Girl Groups from the 60ies.  Oh where are we anyway.  72 is where I am, tired too.  Worked at the Library yesterday and today but before that I saw a Doe and fawn, a fox in the field and about 16 hummingbirds, they are going through so much sugar water that it is hard to keep up.
I am so blessed to have this day and ever other day that the good Lord has given me.
YIPEE SKIPEE.
I had a fire tonight, it was a dusie.  I really need to get more wood out there.  I talked to Dot and Sharon.  It is like having you friends with you around the camp fire.  Wait till next week, we will have a fire many many nights in a row.  I need to haul wood over to Federal Dam.  There is a lot to do to get ready for camping and I need to get started.  I have Dot and Nancy week one, Dot and Dede week two until Friday anyway when Sharon gets there and Sharon for 5 nights week three.  Am I the luckies person on earth or what?
I worked at the Library on Friday also, it all seems to run together, Jim had been so helpful there.  We need the guys so much and reading is such a passion to so many of them.  Jean has her Mother staying with them now, she is 92.  What a sweet lady, so much on the ball.  Has a list of every book she has ever read and she was an English teacher so it's thousands.  I know Jean's husband like my Jim always has a book in his hand.  My little Otto always has a piece of dog food by his side.  If you see little Otto there will be a nugget of his favorite dog food, sometimes you have to pick them up off the floor because they hurt when yo u are barefoot.  They are round and the size of a quarter.
I know I was busy this week, VBS Monday through Thursday finishing with a hot dog lunch.  Lots of fruit.  We cleaned up and I had to hurry to get to the food shelf.  Father's Heart and Hands Food Shelf.  Nancy Green and I have taken over for Duane and Teresa.  I really enjoy it.  It's only a two hour commitment every Thursday three months a year.  
Thurs night I worked the meat raffle and I won three chickens.  The kind in a bag you just bake in the bag.  EASY PEESY,