Good Morning Sunshine!

It is partly cloudy and warm and we are headed South to even more sun.  We had to pack up this morning from the timeshare in Winter Garden (6 miles from Disney) and we are headed to Naples for another 3 days of fun in the sun.  Kathleen and Gary will meet us there, and we should get to see Bill and Carol as well.  It will be the first time the three of us have been together since the family reunion in Becker.

Yesterday was a fun easy day.  We went and played Bingo (a 2 p.m. regular at the resort).  They play 4 games of bingo at $1 per card, and you win half the pot.....then they play one coveral and you win the other half of the first four pots and all of the 5th.  Well Bonnie won one of the first games....but had to split it with another....so she only won $2 but by the fifth game that pot was worth $40 and I won it!  After playing 2 days in a row.....I finally got a winner.  So that was exciting.  But there were only 8 of us playing on Sunday, so the odds were with me.  After Bingo, we road the paddleboats around a little lake for 1/2 hour, taking pictures of some interesting ducks...I'll post pictures maybe tomorrow....and then went and played miniature golf.  Bonnie beat me by 10 strokes!!!  But she plays actual golf....so that's my excuse.  It was 18 holes, so she only beat me by one stroke in 10 of the 18.....that sounds a whole lot better.

For some reason neither of us slept well last nite.  The neighbor kids came home at about 10:30 and decided to play outside for about a 1/2 hour.....loudly.  So Bonnie and I ended up getting up at Midnight and watchinhg HGTV for about 1/2 hour before going back and trying it again.  I was awake every hour or so just restless.  But feeling okay today.  We only have a short day's drive.  about 4 hours or less to Jim's.

Guess Bucky hasn't been sleeping well at the hospital either.  They may do that procedure today and then send him home.  I hope to hear this afternoon what they do.  Prayers, Please!!!  Love and prayers,

Another Day in Paradise!

Even though we are not on the Gulf....next to the water....we are warm and sunny.  Yesterday was a lazy day....sat in the sun, did laundry, played bingo, put my feet in the hot tube while Bonnie went all the way!  Cause of my butt I'm not allowed to go in....but it felt good just to have my feet in.

Today it will be more of the same except we may throw in some paddle boat rides and miniature golf....or even a bicycle built for two.  It's a side-by-side bikes with umbrella with fringe.  We'll see how my butt feels....don't know if it will like a bike seat.  But on the whole (play on words....Not) it is feeling good.  I can't complain on how well I've survived the driving in the car.  Although I would say it's been a 1/3 - 2/3rds split.  Bonnie does the most while on the road.  But yesterday and today I've done all the short spurts to the grocery store and here.

Talked to Kathleen this morning, and we are still on to meet them at Jim Gendreau's tomorrow afternoon.  We should be there around 3 p.m.  It's not far, and we have to check out at 10 a.m.....so I'll come and write again in the morning before heading out to Naples.

Nothing much new on Bucky....still in the hospital....but talking about sending him home tomorrow.  I haven't heard that they did the procedure to suck out the blockage yet...and he is still really tired....but that could be the drugs.  Thanks for remembering him and my butt in your prayers.  It is much appreciated.  Love and prayers, m

Florida....Sunshine State

This is what we've been talkin bout!!!  High today will be in the low 70's and again tomorrow.  I wanted to sit outside and do my blog....but couldn't see the screen....so Bonnie is sitting outside this Starbucks drinking her coffee while I'm in here writing my blog.  So gorgeous!!!

It was a long day of driving yesterday.....but we survived!!  Only to be rewarded by this wonderful weather.  We left Jim and Linda's in Destin at about 10 a.m. and then headed to Panama City Beach to Doraine Newlands condo that they are renting for 2 months.  Bonnie and I worked with Doraine at the college back in the early 80's.  She made us lunch and we had a good visit, and then headed for Winter Garden (Orlando suburb)....unfortunately we lost an hour with the time change, so we didn't get here till 8:15 last nite.  I tried getting online to blog at the timeshare we are staying in.....but they wanted $8 a day to use the internet....so I declined that.

This morning we are moving slow, but did finally head out to Publix to get some groceries for dinner today and tomorrow, and then found this Starbucks so I could get online free.  Probably either won't blog tomorrow or Monday mornings, unless we come back here for coffee and free internet use.

We plan on doing laundry in our place this afternoon, and then checking out the grounds.  They have paddleboats and miniature golf that we may try out.  No big plans....just know we are not going to Disney or other big buck attractions this trip.

My butt is holding out well, and Ann is reporting that her dad is doing well in the hospital....loves being taken care of by the nurses and the added attraction of morphine.  Keep the prayers coming for him....and I guess you can think of my butt every now and then too!  Love and prayers,

Heading to More Sun!

Had a really nice time in Destin....but not as warm and sunny as we hoped.  Jim was not able to take us out in his boat, and we didn't get to walk on the beach.  So this morning before we leave we are going to take that walk.  This morning there isn't a cloud in the sky and it is already 59 degrees at 8 a.m. 

Today after our walk we will head towards Orlando, but first we are stopping in Panama City to have lunch with Doraine Newland (a woman I job shared with back in 1980 when I started at ARCC).  Bonnie and I both worked with her....so we'll have some good conversation. 

Tonight we will be in Winter Gardens....near Orlando.  Stay the next 3 nights and head to Naples on Monday.

Loving the trip so far, and having a great time with all the people we got to stay with.  Everyone has been so good to us.

My butt isn't doing to bad, I think it is much better than it was a week ago.  I hear Bucky is feeling a little better (probably the morphine) but they couldn't do the procedure to remove the blockage yet.  So keep those prayers a coming!!!  Love and prayers to all, m

New Day is Dawning

and it's full of sun in Florida.  Bonnie and I both are loving it....even though they think it is chilly....we don't.

Yesterday was a long day driving.....less than 400 miles.....but mostly avoided Atlanta and it's congestion by taking a smaller road to Macon and then only had a few periods of Interstate where we could really drive....and on top of that it was so windy, that you were fighting it all day.  When we finally got to Florida, the wind calmed down, but then we had to drive into the sun (not that I'm complaining about sun)....but it made the driving hard.  Bonnie and I traded off several times during the day, but we are both getting tired of driving.  So glad we have another reprieve today.

Linda had a meeting she had to go into work for this morning, and Jim had to go for physical therapy....so Bonnie and I are just being lazy.  My computer finally works here....so I will post a couple of pictures from Smokey Mountain National Park.

My phone is working again too!  We stopped at a Sprint store in Athens before leaving yesterday....and I guess some of the prongs got bent when Joe and I were looking for a cord to charge it (without going out to the car in the rain) so when we did have the right cord, the thing wasn't getting a charge.  But they fixed it for free, and we were on our way.  So I was able to use it in about an hour when it was fully charged in the car.

Talked to Jimbo and also read several updates in Caringbridge site of Buckys.  He hasn't been doing good since chemo last week....had lost 17 pounds in 6 days....and was in a lot of pain and not sleeping.  So they took him into the doctor and eventually they admitted him to the hospital.  They have determined that he has another blockage, and they are going to try and remove it with a tube down into the stomach that can suction out the blockage.  It may take 3 or 4 days, but just being hooked up to an IV drip and getting morphine along with fluids and vitamins etc.....has already helped a lot.  Please say some extra special prayers for Buck, and don't worry about my butt....it's fine. 

Love and prayers, m

Georgia on My Mind!

But we have to leave today.  Yesterday wasn't the greatest as far as my luck goes.  Bonnie and I noticed on Monday, that I have a big dent in the passenger side of the van.....we aren't sure where it happened, but we think it must have been in downtown Naperville on Saturday night....but we didn't notice it till Monday.  But for sure it didn't happen when we were in the car.  Then yesterday my phone battery died, and we tried to plug it into the car.....but that didn't work, so we brought a cord in the house and tried to charge it there and it still wouldn't take a charge.  So this morning it will be our first stop.  We've got the address of a Sprint store, and we have to go through Athens to get to Destin, FL....so I hope that will help.

As for the day yesterday it rained all day....and still is raining this morning.  The bed and breakfast though is fantastic.  Joe and Sandi are great hosts.  The food was great, and I and Sandi joined as partners to play 500 against Joe and Bonnie.  We pretty much tied as far as wins and losses go, but when I was losing I was getting the worst hands.  But anyway we played all evening, and laughed and talked and loved it all.

Now we are off to Jim and Linda's in Destin...write when we are there.  Love and prayers, m

Better Late Than Never

I had lots of problems getting into the blog from Sandi's computer....and they don't have wifi so couldn't use mine.  But I just tried one last time....and all of a sudden it worked.

We drove down from Lexington to Athens via the Great Smokey Mountain National Park....after checking at the visitors center to check and see if the road was open.  We started at Gatinburg 50 degrees and by the time we got to the top it was down to 36, snow covered, and all the water running out of the rocks were huge ice cycles.  So I took pictures, but I can't get at them until I can get back on my own computer. 
We also took a hike to Tullulah Gorge and that was very invigorating....we were out of breath by the time we hiked back to the car.

Joe had dinner ready when we arrived at their home in Athens, GA.  We sat and talked with them till near midnite and did the same again this morning around the breakfast table.  Going to take a tour of downtown Athens now....Bonnie and Fred lived here one year while Fred was in Graduate School, so we'll see if anything at all looks the same.

Tomorow we will go on to Destin....so Zimmer's better get ready.  I hear that Bucky isn't doing to well....so say a few more prayers for him....as for my butt...I am doing pretty good....able to take my turn and drive when I need too.  But the third day in a row was hard....will be glad to not have to drive today!  Love and prayers, m

Pretend this is my Monday Morning Entry

It is warmer here than it was in MN, but it actually got colder as the day went on....still not as cold as MN but not great either.  Still snow on the ground, and they are predicting a dusting my morning....so hope the roads are okay when we head out of here.  We are in Lexington, KY this evening, and are heading toward Athens, GA.  We wanted to go through the Great Smokey Mountain National Park, but are worried that road will be closed so will take an alternative route....near Ashville, North Carolina. 

We left Tom and Karen's this morning around 10 a.m., and were only a few miles down the road when Karen called and said we had forgot a photo album that I brought with pictures of the new cabin addition.  So Tom and Will were on their way to hockey and coming down the same road so we pulled over and waited for them and got the photo album.  I could have turned around....I was only about a mile away....but it worked out great.  Tom fixed us a big breakfast, eggs, potatoes, bacon and toast....and made a braided coffee cake as well (not from scratch....he isn't that good! hehe).  We pulled into a hotel in Lexington at 4:45....but I guess we crossed a time zone in Indiana and it was now really 5:45.  After watching the news and weather report, we went across the street to a Cracker Barrel, and had a great dinner.  We are now just relaxing in the room....gonna what some TV and crawl into bed.  Hope to leave by at least 9 a.m. tomorrow.  We get a cont. breakfast with the room, so that should help us get moving in the morning.

Bill 1/28/11 and Nick 1/24/11

As you will be reading this on Monday.....Happy Birthday Nick....he is now 15....like cousin Nicole.  Sorry your Bears lost today.  So good my fantasy football team was over....cause Cutler was my QB.  But congrats to Jack....as his Packer's won  (oh yah, and all you Wisconsin cousins and Uncle John). 

That's it for the evening.  I'll write again tomorrow nite from the Schieber Bed and Breakfast in Athens, GA.  Love and prayers, m

Warm and Comfy Here

Bonnie and I left pretty close to the goal time of 8 a.m., and had no problems driving to Naperville.  Kennedy had a hockey game at 4:30....so we drove right to the rink....thanks to GPS....and arrived before the game started....by about 45 minutes.

After driving in the car all day....Bonnie and I stood for that 45 minutes....and then only sat back down to watch.  It was a great game for the team....considering they are a U10 team and had to play a U12 team, and  at the end of the first period they were tied 2-2, and the goalie got sick, so another girl stood in front of the goal (without pads) for almost the whole second period till they could get another goalie from the U12 team fill in.  Kennedy got 3 assists and played great.  I think it was just for me....but she says not.

After the game we proceeded to the new store.....and I proceeded to buy new shoe's (Elaine....it does make me feel great!).  Actually 2 pair, one shoes and one boots, and then they gave me new moccasins and a pair of sorrels.  So I am in my glory!!!

After shopping in their new fantastic store....we came home for a great dinner and then what the kids have been waiting for since Dec. 25, they opened presents.  It was really fun, cause I got to watch them open them and I also got to open presents....more pictures for my barren cabin walls.  All the kids gave me pictures this year at my request, and they did such a great job of finding old pictures of their kids enjoying the cabin.  It's gonna look so nice!

This morning we are having a leisurely breakfast and will be out of here by 10 a.m. and heading for Lexington, KY.  It's cold here too!  But not as cold as MN.....and they don't have as much snow.  So all is well and we are now eating a great breakfast.  Love and prayers, m

In Search of Warmth!

Looks like it will really be a hunt for at least the first four or five days....but I know we will find warmth in all the homes we enter.  Lots of love....laughter....great food.....and conversation.  I can't wait.  We may have to change our route cause of snow in Kentucky and Tennessee Smoky Mountains....cause the weather map is showing snow on Monday the day we were going to drive through....but oh well....another time.

This morning will be short and sweet....I am picking Bonnie up at 7:50 and then we are out of here.  Bonnie brought over her large suitcase and the little food she wanted put in the cooler, so we have both big suitcases already in the car...along with a big bin of clothes that Annie brought over last nite to take to the Kieckers....and the super large bag of gifts for them that I didn't mail....and a few other's didn't mail either.  So that along with the cooler and our overnite bags etc.  will pretty much fill the floor of the van.  You'd think we were going for a couple months by the looks of it.  I'm sure it will seem a lot less when we leave Tom and Karen's tomorrow morning.

I guess I am ready but need to power down the computer and put that in and get myself dressed for the day.  My butt is fair....not great yet like last Tuesday morning, but I think I will be just fine.  So till the next chance I get to report....love and prayers, m    Here we come ready or not!!!

Vacation Insight!

Waking up to -20 isn't as bad when you know you are leaving on vacation tomorrow.  The sun is shining with a promise of a good day in-spite of the frigged temps.  Sorry this is so late in getting written, but I have been on the phone for the last hour.....most of that with Janet and then my neighbor Marrianne who I had emailed yesterday to ask them to keep an eye on my house while I'm gone.  I also asked LaVonne another neighbor to do the same.  So I won't be worrying about that while I'm gone.  So anyway, I better get this written, so I can get my suitcase actually packed.

I managed to get all three loads of wash done in one day, I cleaned the kitchen and both bathrooms, and got the garbage collected and down to the curb for pick up this morning.  So I feel really ready to get this vacation on the road.  I will miss lounging in my pjs till noon each day....but I know that I am not only energized by the sun, but by other people....so I won't miss it much!

Today I will actually put the clothes in the suitcase, and maybe weed out some stuff.  You can only fit so much in a suitcase.  I will have an emergency bag with ski pants, ski cap and extra gloves in it.  I'll be wearing the boots and will have a cooler and bag of food that we can use at the timeshare condo's, and for lunches on the road.  Plus I have all those presents I will leave at Tom and Karen's.....and a bag of clothes Annie is sending down for Kennedy and Presley.  But Karen has forewarned me that she has a box of clothes she is sending back for Matthew.  Then I have to pick up Bonnie and squeeze her stuff in.  Thank goodness I have the minivan.  Actually, I think we'll have plenty space for it all.

I talked to Karen yesterday, and the plan is now to go directly to the ice arena and watch Kennedy play hockey at 4:30 p.m.....then see the store....then go to their house for dinner and open presents.  It should be a fun evening.  I've never seen Kennedy play hockey....only took her to figure skating lessons when she was much younger.  She really loves hockey like her older cousins, Nicole and Allie.....and her brother Will.

I heard from the Zimmer's in Destin, that they have joined the 21st century and do have internet at the house now....so I will beable to update my blog from there too!  So you can catch up on my comings and goings....almost everyday....I'll try to do it daily....but don't be concerned if I miss a day....I'm just having too much fun.  Well off to packing, please keep me in your prayers,,,,my butt and spots....good weather and good roads....and also for Bucky and all my neighbor men who all could use your prayers.  Love and prayers, m

Deep Freeze Coming!

Good morning, if you think it's cold this morning.....wait till tomorrow.  They are talking about wind chill of 30 below....actual temp of -14.  BRRRR!  Luckily I have no need to leave the house except to get the mail......Maybe I'll drive the car out to the mail box....hehe!!

If any of you missed the update on yesterday's blog....you'll have to go back and check it out.  I found the camera under the TV and posted the pictures of Bill and Nick....oh and also Matthew and the one that Matthew took of his pet dog "Jack".

I had my hair cut and colored yesterday....and my son-in-law followed me into the chair to have his hair cut....I hear that Jimbo and Ann had hair cuts yesterday too!  It must have been national hair cut day!!  Anyway, I'm ready for the trip in that department.  Also eliminated some of the clothes on the bed that I put back in the closet....but still have a pile to pack.  Also narrowed down to 3 pair of shoes, and I'll wear my Uggs so I'll have warm boots for the beginning of the trip....and the end.  Can't leave home without that in the winter.  I'm considering taking snowpants and a ski cap for emergency use as well.  Better to be safe than sorry. 

Brace yourselves.....I'm going to do laundry again today!!!  Don't want to leave home with a basket full of dirty clothes.  I think I'll empty all the garbage cans, as tomorrow is garbage day....and recycling day, and my barrel is full of recycling.  Not much actual garbage.  Also, I have to go back to the packing thing.  I think I have everything gathered, now I have to stuff it into a suitcase....I may eliminate things again at that point.  I can always buy anything I forgot along the way!!

I've contacted the paper and post office already and touched base with those I'll be stopping at and even got the car washed yesterday.  I'm sure it won't stay clean for long....but atleast I'll be starting out with a clean car.  So what am I forgetting to do?  I hope nothing.

Kathleen called yesterday and skyped me....but couldn't get her camera to work....so it was a one sided thing....she could see me, and I showed her all the pictures I got for Christmas from my kids....and it's a lot.  She also has coordinated to meet us in Naples at Jim's.  That should really be fun.  I can't wait.

I started counting visitors to my site last Fall some time....I don't remember exactly....but before I went to the hospital and they report to me weekly how many hits I've had, and the average per day etc.  So far I've had over 6000 hits.  Somewhere between 35 and 40 average per day.....I have a hard time believing that that many people are actually reading my rambling....but I do feel the love and prayers....so that is proof enough.
While I'm gone, I will try and write, but I think it will probably be in the evening before I go to bed instead of the morning....I'm sure I won't have time then.  I also won't have access to the internet at a few places....like the Zimmer's in Destin.  But I will try and get on as often as I can.  So till tomorrow...keep those prayers coming for me and Bucky....he starts his chemo today.....Love and prayers, m

Sunshine in an Ice Box!

It will be close to 20 below by the time we leave on Saturday morning.....but then the warm up begins.....for us driving south and for those staying here.  They think we are bottoming out for the winter in the temperature department.  I guess this is the normal January temps for MN.....46 years ago when Bill was born (1/28/65) it was the coldest day of the year!!!  This year it will be about a week earlier!!

I had planned on putting Bill and Nick's pictures on the blog for you last night, but I can't find the camera.  I know Matthew was taking pictures with it after I used it, but I don't know where it went from there.  I took a look around the house again this morning, but I still can't find it.  Need to do that before I leave on vacation.

I've started making a list of things I need to do before I leave and it's not too long....so that is good.  Since we have the mini van, I don't have to pack too light, but I don't want to take along things needlessly either.  I have been gathering things in the back bedroom, and I will put some of it back as the days go by.  I don't want to be dragging into places everything but the kitchen sink....and I have to be able to lift it from the ground into the mini van by myself too!

We're also taking a cooler with snacks and lunch stuff so we don't have to eat out too much....Restaurants get pretty boring after a while when your gone a couple of weeks.  So I've bought cheese and lunch meat and trail mix and bread and lactaid....both of us are lactose intolerant...Crackers and buns and things like that.

I went to Mayo again yesterday....Jimbo and Doug drove me as far as Bonnie and Bob Lammer's home, and then they drove me the rest of the way down. A big "Thank You" to both of them. My butt was feeling so good when I left home.....but Dr. Nelson (even though she thought it looked really good and was maybe getting smaller) worked more aggressively at scraping out the debris and packing it and repacking it again before I left her office.  So sitting wasn't as good coming home....but I have high hopes that it will be good again by Saturday and riding and driving in the car won't be a problem.  They have set up appointments for me to see a urologist and Dr. Nelson again on Feb. 15th when I return from Florida.  I know I'll be looking for a driver for that day, and it will be a longer day than these short appointment days I've been having.  Evidently my ureter is mildly enlarged to both kidneys and they want to make sure it isn't or doesn't hurt the kidneys by backing up into them.  So we'll see what he has to say in February.

Last night I managed to take all the tinsel off my tree.  The kids told me on Monday night that they would take down the tree for me....but they wouldn't take the tinsel off.  It comes off so much faster than it goes on.....it couldn't have taken me 15 minutes to get it all off....and it took me days to get it on.  So hopefully while I'm gone on vacation some little elves will come in and take down all the Christmas and pack it all away....that's my dream anyway!

This morning I have an appointment to have my hair done, then I have to have a prescription refilled for my antibiotics to take while I'm gone, and then I'll get to the packing job.

Please continue to keep Bucky and family in your prayers as well as my spots and butt!!  Love and prayers, m

Bill and Nick

Bill with a Matthew matching shirt!  Well atleast they are both red and black!

Mathhew's picture of his dog Jack!

Found the camera under the TV.  

Back to Mayo....but Supposedly in Sunshine.

They say we will have really cold temps but some sun....till maybe Friday.  BRRRRR!!! 

Yesterday was a great day....did my shopping, got ready for the kids to come....made my cards for Bill and Nick and wrapped their gifts.  Then I went over to the wake for Cherie's brother.  Got to see a few that I hadn't seen in a few years....either at one of her daughter's weddings....or the funeral of her dad.  Cherie was surrounded by her friends when I arrived, 2 other principals, one of which I know from my "Valuing Your Sexuality" program I did for years....that was about 25 years ago. (I can't believe how old I'm getting) maybe it might be 20 years ago....but that doesn't make me feel any younger either.  Anyway back to the topic at hand....It was fun to see Ginny. 

I came home and started making pizza's ....popping frozen ones into the oven.....I think I made about 6 all toll.  They did a good job a devouring them.  The best part of the evening was just having the family all there....all the Minnesota family here.  The cousins all get along so well, and I love watching them gather around the table with a constant conversation flying around the room, mixed with laughter.  They only joined the adults for singing happy birthday and opening of the presents.  Later today when I get back from Mayo I'll put a picture of the birthday boys on the blog.

Today I am making the trip back to Mayo, but it will be almost a month before I'm back there again.  This evening, I'll watch Biggest Loser but that's the only plans for the day.  Bonnie and Bob are waiting for me to arrive this morning, and Jimbo and Doug are taking me there. 

Now it's time to shower and dress so I'm ready when the they arrive.  So lots of prayers and love, and please keep Bucky in your prayers.  Jimbo and Ann said last night that he will start chemo on Thursday.  m

Silly Weather Man!

Didn't see the sun yesterday, but also didn't see much snow.  It did brighten up thankfully.  More snow today....but again not much.....some areas are going to get drizzle.  But only saying super cold for the rest of the week.  I'll be really happy to get out of here on Saturday.

Yesterday, I went to church and then off to Gene's neice's house for yet another Christmas....the Kiecker's finally all got together.  It was a very enjoyable afternoon....food was great....Bruce always does such a nice job with that.  They had ham, turkey and pork tenderloin, and carrots, corn and green bean casserole.  After eating we opened presents and we always do two fun games, where we each bring a $10 gift and a $1 gift and then draw numbers and pick a gift and then when we get to the last number, we go backwards and let each person trade for something else.  Sometimes you actually get to go home with what you really wanted.  Anyway, fun afternoon was had by all.  When the room cleared out....Forrest (neice Bobby Jo's husband) helped Bruce to hang his new 60 inch flat screen on the wall.  Wow....what a great TV.

Today I am hosting my family for a pre-birthday party for Bill and Nick Kiecker.  They both will happen while I am gone, so we get to celebrate together this evening.  I have a little grocery shopping to do before that can happen, and I also will stop in at a wake for my friend Cheri Gardner's brother.  He died of pancreatic cancer last week.  Cheri had told me he wasn't doing well last Saturday when she was here, but I didn't think it would be this soon.  But am glad I was home and can go to the wake.  Can't do the funeral tomorrow, as I will be back down at Mayo tomorrow.

Bonnie and Bob will be driving me down tomorrow, and Jimbo will drive me to their house in Rosemount. I know all that will happen is a reaming out of the fistula and then cauterizing, so it shouldn't take long.  Luckily I don't have to be down there till 11 a.m. and so I can sleep in till about 8 a.m......well maybe 7:00, and then I'll blog quick and be off for the day.  Love and prayers, m

Sunshine Promise for today Again!

Two days in a row!!!  Whoohoo.  Funny I just read my cousin Louie's caringbridge site and he just moved back to Minnesota from Colorado Springs.....he writes about how beautiful the snow is....etc. etc.....and all I do is complain.....it's not that I hate snow....I'm a skier in my good health days....but it's the Grey skies that I despise....I love seeing the sun.  So hopefully it will be out to greet us again today.  Oh no scattered snow showers this morning....and bitterblast of cold they just said on the TV....aaauuuugggghhhh!

I have a Christmas party to go to this afternoon and tomorrow evening we will celebrate Bill and Nick's birthdays that will happen while I am gone on vacation.  I've promised them pizza and I think they all can come.

I did go to Nicole's hockey game, and it was a great game to watch.  They won 6-1 and the 1 wasn't scored till they had less than 3 minutes left in the game and were short by 2 players in the penalty box.  The best part of the day was seeing Nicole score one of those goals.  Go Nicole!!

I did a little shopping, a very little only one store....and then came home and worked on packing for the trip.  I have everything (clothes wise) laying out on a bed in the spare room....and may edit it along the way....but I just have to decide which shoes to take....and what else I need.  I also feed addresses into my GPS so I can easily get to them while traveling.  I think I'm getting set! 

Well it's time to get ready for church....don't want to be late.  Love and prayers, m

Can you See the Sun?

Hurrah!!!  We have sunshine this morning.  Sunshine makes me smile!!  That and the roar of the neighbor blowing out my drive-way for the umpteenth time.  What a guy!!!  Just like the snow.....he doesn't give up.  But I hear we will have a snow free weekend....no more planned till Monday.

I did go to both the dinner and the play last night with the North Suburban Women's Club.  A nice group of women, and a group I've belonged to for about 20 years.  Unfortunately I haven't been able to be very active like I was.....but I still like getting together with them all.  I did manage to sit through dinner without a problem....but the play was another thing.  Those seats are not condusive to lounging in.  The play "Almost Maine"  was cute and did keep you laughing...so that helped.  I was happy to stand up at the end....and then I had to go outside and clean off my car so I could drive home....but thankfully the snow had stopped.  Getting to the restaurant was quite an achievement in itself.  It took me 5 minutes just to get onto Hwy 10 where the traffic was sometimes totally stopped and mostly at a crawl.  It shouldn't have taken me more than 10 minutes to get there....but ended up taking me 25 minutes.  I don't know if the police had someone pulled over?....or if there had been an accident?  But by the time I got to the scene....the police were the only one pulled to the side of the road.  Auuuuugggghhhhh.!!!!

It's such a beautiful day....I'll have to figure out something to do.  Kathleen seems to think I do too much laundry.....but it's really that I avoid doing laundry....and leave it in the tub a day or so, then I put it in the dryer and forget to turn the dryer on.....another auuuggghhhh!  But it does finally get done, and it's no longer sitting on my couch waiting to be put away.....so what should I do today?

I do need to fill the bird feeder so those squirrels have something to eat....like they aren't fat enough yet.  Maybe I'll see if there is a hockey game to go to.

Tomorrow I get to continue the unending Christmas.  The Kieckers will gather at Dr. Lynn's house....it's been postponed several times, but I really think it is going to happen this time.  Next Saturday I think it will finally come to an end.....I'll get to watch the Chicago Kiecker's open their presents.  Bonnie and I are going to spend our first night with them.  I can't wait....the highlight of my trip!!!....even though I'll have fun the rest of the 18 days....nothing can beat that!

Well must go see what God is going to surprise me with today!  Love and prayers, m

Even more Snow!

We've already reached the full Winter average of 50 inches, and it's only Jan. 14.  They are talking about another 3 inches by tomorrow morning.  That wouldn't be so bad, but they are already telling us about more snow on Monday.  I need to be back at Mayo on Tuesday, so hope the roads are clear by then....I can't worry about that....there is nothing I can do about it anyway.

Yesterday I made my quarterly trip to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned.  Funny I originally thought my appointment was on Tuesday.....in my mind.....then I called and checked and it was on Wednesday....then Mayo moved me back to Wednesday from Friday....so I had to call and change to Thursday,.  So it's amazing I made both my appointment to Mayo on Wednesday and my dentist appointment yesterday.  After that I did some shopping for my trip.  Had a 30% off coupon for Kohls, and needed some new underwear and socks for the trip....and I think I did really well.  My sales slip says I saved $187.   I get a kick out of how they print that on the bottom of your receipt to make you feel so much better for spending your money.....plus they gave me a $10 Bucks Back coupon if I go shopping again.  So I really did feel good about all my purchases.  Then I hit Costco and got my year supply of vitamins (also on sale) and a few other needs for the trip....filled with gas, and came home!

The biggest hit of the day was talking to Aunt Loretta (mom).  She always makes me smile.  I smile everytime I look at the flowers (orchids) she sent too.  Loretta is doing well, and even was out shopping one day herself.  But complained about having to walk all the way across the Mall to get all she was shopping for...but she was proud that she made it!!!

Today I need to finish my laundry that I've sorta been working on all week.....not very hard....and I only have one more load to do. I still have to put away all that I folded yesterday and is still in piles on my couch.  Some of it will go to the spare bedroom to be packed for the trip along with the new socks and underwear I bought yesterday.

Tonight I still haven't decided if I'll go to both dinner and the play with the Women's Club......or if I'll just do one.....I'll wait and see how my butt feels.  Right now it feels pretty good, and I slept very well last night too.  So we'll see what the day brings!  Love and prayers, m

Back to Grey Skies!

but yesterday was a sunshiny day, and a Sonshiny day too!  My visit to Mayo went extremely well....they were squeezing me in and I thought I would be sitting waiting for hours, but I was in and out of the parking ramp in less than an hour.....a pretty unusual thing.....especially for Mayo.

Bonnie got a chance to drive my car....so it won't be all new when we leave on our trip next week.  Boy that is coming quickly.....I have to start thinking about packing....and what to bring.  We had good conversation on the way down, and at lunch....making plans for the trip as well, and then I laid in the back the ride home....so not much conversation happened.  The doctor wasn't as agressive yesterday, so my butt wasn't too sore....but laying down for the ride takes the antisicpated ache away!....or maybe it was the tylenol.

After arriving home around 5 p.m. I heard the doorbell ring....and was surprised at that....I wasn't expecting anyone....and there stood a women with flowers in her hand and she said "these are for Mary".  Now who would be sending me flowers for no reason I could think of.  Mom!!!  (I've adopted Aunt Loretta as my mom) and it was a thank you for taking such good care of her while she was here before Christmas.  I'm so blessed to have Loretta in my life.....she calls often to check up on me too.....and always brings a smile to my face.  Love you Loretta....I'll call you this afternoon and thank you personally.

After that wonderful addition to my day, I listened to President Obama give that great speech at the memorial for those that were killed last weekend in Tucson, Arizona.  At one point he was talking about a man who was killed and he said he would be remembered for the way he loved.....and I immediately started thinking of Bucky and reading his caringbridge site guestbook messages...I know how much he is loved and how great his love for his family and friends....and then my mind went to the words of a song...."and they will know we are Christians by our love."...God is Love....and I also know that I am much loved....I feel the blessings of that love everyday....and I thank God for everyday I get to share that with all of you.  So that is why I think it was a Sonshiny day yesterday...and I look forward to another today.

I shed a few tears during the speech, but also felt that it was a healing speech and was so glad that I live in a place that the leaders can actually quote the bible and talk about a loving God.  We are so lucky!!

Today I have a dentist appointment to have my teeth cleaned.  Then I will do some shopping.  Nothing planned for the evening....we'll see what surprises I have today!  I'll let you know tomorrow!  Love and prayers, m

The Sun is trying to Shine!

At Least it isn't snowing....but it's on the weather map for tomorrow and Friday.  This is Minnesota!

Yesterday my friends came to watch a movie with me, and Bonnie said it was a light, uplifting one....well it wasn't.  "7 Pounds" left me crying....and Bonnie too....Lois said she wasn't....but she probably shed a tear too.  It was one of those that left you trying to figure it out all the way through, and even when it ended with a bittersweet scene....you were crying.  Not exactly light and uplifting.  So after that, all I did was lay on the couch and watch the "Biggest Loser".

Today, Bonnie will come back and drive me down to Rochester.  I have a 1 p.m. appointment, but they are squeezing me in, so don't know how long that will take.  No other plans for the day.  One big event is all I seem to handle these days.  But the 2 hour drive down and 2 more back is a pretty big section of the day in itself.

Tomorrow is my Dentist appointment to get my teeth cleaned, and Friday the Women's Club is going to the Lyric Arts for a play, and if we want, some are gathering at Billy's in Anoka for dinner....I'm debating as to whether I can sit through both.  But I've already paid for the play ticket.....the decision I'll have to wait till Friday to make.  I can usually sit if I can take the pressure off my tailbone, but theatre seats (old theatre seats) aren't very wide and I'm worried about finding a comfortable position.

Well it's not snowing, but I don't actually see the sun shining....where is it? 

Bucky (my daughter-in-law Ann's dad) is still on track to start chemo next week....so please keep him and his family in your prayers.  He has stage 4 bladder cancer that has matasticized to his colon and bones in the pelvic area.  So it's not something you take lightly....we're looking for a miracle here....but in lieu of that...he needs God to carry him through.....he does have a strong faith...so there is no doubt in my mind that God is with him every step of the way.

I'll write again in the morning.....love and prayers, m

Snow, Snow Go Away!

The only consolation (if that) is that we aren't the only ones getting it.....and we are only the recipients of a few new inches.....some like Georgia and the east coast have really gotten hit hard.  The other is that Minnesota is used to it....and have the equipment to handle it.  Even my driveway was plowed early this morning, and then the street was plowed a little while ago, and the nice man across the street is back out blowing the bottom of the driveways (4 of them) where the street plow left a big ridge.  We are so lucky to have this man taking care of a bunch of neighbors.  Last night the 6 year old little boy from across the street was also over with his shovel clearing off my driveway.  He rang the door bell and told me he had done it, and I gave him a candy cane, even though he was happy to do it for free.  What a cutie!!

I went to lunch yesterday with the retirees....no wannabees there.  A few have left for the warmer climates, and a few are leaving next week....but we still managed to have 8 of us there.  All of us are still loving retirement and enjoy getting together and discussing why we are so happy.  I rallied up some more prayers too.  I can always use a few more of them.

I finally talked to Mayo (Dr. Nelson's assistant, Kathy) and rescheduled yet again my appointment to see Dr. Nelson this week and set up one for next week as well.  I told her about the vacation and she suggested I take antiviotics while I am gone to make sure I don't get set back in healing with being gone almost 3 weeks.  I will not be going down on Friday this week (when they are predicting a bigger snow event again) but on Wednesday, and then on Tuesday nest week.  My friend Bonnie Sass (who I will be traveling with) will drive me down tomorrow afternoon, and Bonnie and Bob Lammers will take me next Tuesday.  Jimbo said he would drive me as far as their place in Rosemont and then they will bring me home when we are done at Mayo.  In the morning they avoid driving through rush hour traffic to get up north to pick me up and then driving back through it again.  They can also sleep in an hour or so later.  So thank you for all the drivers....I won't have to worry about that now till I come back mid February.

Today, Bonnie and Lois are coming to watch a movie at my house.  Bonnie picked it up at the library for us....I can't remember which one it is, but it's a light happy one.  Lois (who is really retired) is back working part-time at the college in place of a secretary that had a kidney transplant before the holidays.  This is the first week of the semester, so I'm guessing she will have plenty to do.  Anyway she works till 2:30, so they won't come till after that.  I could go out for dinner with the First Friday group....but it will depend on how long the movie and company goes.  I'm thinking I just may stay home. 

Tomorrow I have Mayo trip, and then on Thursday morning I have a dentist appointment.  So I will be plenty busy. 

My butt is still aching...hasn't responded as quickly to the antibiotics as the last time I was on them....either that or Dr. Nelson has been more aggressive in reaming it out.  So keep praying!  Love and prayers, m

Even more Snow!

It warms up a little.....and then it snows!!  We can't win!!!  I just called Mayo....as they have me scheduled for appointments on Friday, and the weather report says maybe a bigger snow event is predicted for then.  I don't have a volunteer to drive me then either.  But I'll wait till I talk to Dr. Nelson's assistant and see what can be plan B.  I will be looking for a driver whenever it is.

Yesterday I went to church and rallied the spot removers I have there, and I got an email from Karen, in Switzerland, who came up with the idea of adopting out my spots last year.  She has come up with 7 more volunteers that are confirmed to be really good at cleaning spots!  I really thank all of you for coming to my aid....everytime I call....which seems to be often.

The baby shower was very nice....and very emotional too!  Carrie is so bubbly and happy and so beautiful as a pregnant women.  Annie, Kim and their daughters Nicole and Katie picked me up and we headed to the shower around noon.  We were asked to decorate with fabric paint little onezies for the new baby when we arrived, as there were so many of us, Annie and Kim did one, I did one and Nicole and Katie did one.  They hung them on a clothes line to dry, and it was a very cute decoration for the big party room.  Later, they announced winners....the top 4....and Nicole and Katie got 2nd place...."Spit Happens...."  Then they had several other games that each table worked on as groups.  Our table won one of those as well, and we each got a prize.  We had good food, and a good time was had by all.  Opening the gifts is when Carrie got emotional....cried at many of the cards and cried when trying to thank people....but they were tears of joy and love!  One of her friends is a photographer and took pregnancy photo's of her and Jason, and framed for her a 8 X 10 picture of her pregnant belly.  It was so cool....then she put together a slide show of all the photo's she took and played it for everyone at the end of the shower.  What a wonderful gift.

Today I have lunch planned with the retirees and wannabees from the college.  Since I skipped Saturday nights get together, I really want to go today.  No other plans....just wait for Mayo to call so I can discuss my plans for the next couple of weeks and tell them about the trip I have planned for the end of the month.  It's coming quick....less than two weeks I leave. 

Ann and Jimbo and family finally got to celebrate Christmas with her dad with the traditional mush and sauerkraut and spareribs on the menu.  I guess this was a very wonderful, emotional and special afternoon and evening for them all.  Please keep them all in your prayers too!

For now....Love and prayers, m

Even Colder this Morning!

Coldest of the season....about -8 right now....but it's going to be up to 14 by this afternoon. 

I had a great time yesterday morning with my friends.  The brunch turned out great.....I made an apple hash that I saw Racheal Rae make last week, and made holes and dropped in an egg and covered and cooked for 10 minutes till eggs were done....it was a big hit.  I'll definately make that again. 

The conversations and presents were a hit too!  It's always so much fun to get together with these women....no matter how long it's been, we all fall into unstopable conversations.  We've been friends so long....we know each others family and friends and all think along the same lines when it comes to religion and politics, so we don't have to bit our tongues on any subject.  I'm including a picture of us. Left to right it's Cherie, me, Jan and Barb.

Today I have a baby shower for Carrie my neice, and I need to get my shower and off to church before that.  So I'll keep this short.  I've added somemore adoptee's of spots yesterday....keep those prayers coming for those spots and my butt!!!  Love and prayers, m

Not Quite Finished with Christmas Yet!

Have my annual Christmas Party with great friends Jan Ranum, Cheri Gardner and Barb Skierecki. They will come for Brunch.  I'm pretty ready....just a little more cooking to get done, but can't finish that till they get here.  I'm guessing this is the 35th year for this celebration....but it's only at my house every 4 years.  Two of us live North of the cities and two live South, so we have set it up so we go North one year and South the next.  This year it will be cold....but we will have plenty of sunshine and Sonshine both inside and outside my house.

Last night I went with Bill to the Coon Rapids Alumni Wrestling Meet.  No, none of the Alums got to wrestle, although Bill thought it might be fun for a minute....but for sure not six minutes.  He remembers them as the longest six minutes of your life.  I found I got back in the posture of a wrestling mom, and I was leaning and squirming in my seat like I did when I was watching my own kids....it doesn't matter if their your kids or not.  I loved seeing some of the old gang, Murph, Timmy, Dowling, Jeff Board and lots of others.  Even got to talk to some of their parents, like Mr. Koffski and Ron Scott.  They didn't have time to introduce all the Alumni individually, but they did get to gather on the floor and took a picture.  Their must have been seventy or eighty of them there.  Also a few of the old coaches....Bob Board and Mr. Hyland.  Fun evening reminising with them all.

I could go to a ARCC get together tonite up at Billy's in Anoka, but I don't know if I'll be up to going out in the cold this evening.  We'll see what the day brings.  It's supposed to be below zero in double digits by morning, so staying warm on my own comfy couch might sound really good.

Church in the morning tomorrow, and then we get to go to a baby shower for neice Carrie who is having her first baby.  One which she has worked to get for years now.  Baby is due next month....and they are already talking about having another as soon as possible.  I am so happy for them.

But now it's time to get my shower and get dressed before the company comes at 10 a.m.  Love and prayers, m

Snowing Again?

I can't believe it....will it ever stop?  I have to go out in it today, so I hope it doesn't last long.  I see schools in southern MN are closing early?  Are they expecting a lot more?  Hmmmm!  I better look into that....it doesn't look that bad here.

Yesterday, I got most of the work done that needed to be done in preparation for tomorrow's company.  I even got the gifts made and wrapped.  Do need to do a little more cleaning and some laundry today, but first I have to go grocery shopping, and that means I have to shower and get dressed.

Tonight I am going to the Coon Rapids High School Alumni wrestling match with Bill.  He called and invited me last night.  There should be lots of people there that I know, so it will be fun....and a lot better than sitting at home.

It sound like Buck Haugen will be starting chemo later in January.  So I hope he is up for that.  I'm sure prayers will help.  Yesterday, I put out the call for more spot removers and prayers, and I got a great response....I feel sure that God will carry both Buck and me through this.  Thank you all so much.  That's all folks!  Love and prayers, m

Update on Next Weeks Appointment

They just called from Mayo and have canceled my appointment on Wednesday and rescheduled it for Friday, as that day I can also see the plastic surgeon.  But they won't have times till tomorrow....so I won't be able to tell anyone what time we would need to leave or when we would get home.  I'll let you all know as soon as I know.  I also get to add a few more to my adopt a spot list.  Linda and Jim Zimmer and cousin Sharon Upwood are now on the list.  That you all so much.  Love and prayers, m

Calling all Spot Removers!

Some of the spots are back.....so I need you all to start talking to your spot, and if you weren't on the list before....I'd be happy to add you this time around.  The doctor says they won't do anything right now, because they want to give my butt a chance to heal....and chemo would hinder that healing.  So in about 2 months I will be back at Mayo for another CTscan and then probably be sent back to HHH in Robbinsdale to start another 12 rounds of chemo.  So we will see what March brings.  Hopefully my butt will heal by then....so say alittle prayer for that too!  We can't forget my butt!

I started out last week thinking things were going to be better in 2011, but it has just brought a bunch of new challenges.  I do think I have the strength to meet these challenges, and your love and prayers will support those efforts.

Back to my butt....yesterday I mentioned that they might be sending me to the plastic surgeon, but they evidently thought more about it, or after seeing the CTscan have decided against it....I think that is a good thing right now.....that maybe it isn't that bad or is starting to heal?....but anyway they set up an appointment for me to see Dr. Nelson (the surgeon that I've been seeing) again next Wednesday.  I could use a volunteer for that drive.  Jimbo said he maybe could do it.....but they have so much on their plate right now with Ann's dad, that I hate to bother him.  So if any of you would like to spend the middle of the day with me....let me know.  My appointment is at 1:00 so we would have to leave by 10:45 or so and probably wouldn't get back to Coon Rapids till 4:30 or so.  Also say a prayer for good roads.  I'm sorry I'm so needy!!! ....but I know the prayers work....so please keep them coming.

Today Jimbo took my car to change the oil ect.  and I need to clean....as I am getting company on Saturday morning.  I finally get to celebrate one more Christmas party.  I'm doing a brunch...so need to get ready for that.  All of a sudden it's coming quick, and I have some things to do like wrap some presents and cook.  Janet helped me to plan the menu yesterday, and I only have a few things I need to buy...but have to do that tomorrow, as I don't have a car today. 

That's all I have to report....keep Bucky and my neighbor men in your prayers too.  Love and prayers, m

Better Late than Never

Spent my morning waiting as usual....7 a.m. bloodwork turned into 7:40....8:15 CT scan became 9:30 or so....didn't get done until 10:35.  Got back to the motel at 11:00 really hurting, as I hadn't been able to eat or take any on my pills till then.  But layed on the bed till 1 p.m. and then Janet and I checked out, and went to Bakers Square for lunch and free pie!!  She'll take mine home for Randy....he'll love it!

I just checked in for my 2:45 appointment with Dr. Sideras the oncologist, but I also have a 3 p.m. appointment with Dr. Shun in a different place....so I don't think I'll be making that one on time.  I also found out that I have to come back next Wednesday to see Dr. Nelson....she was thinking of having me see a plastic surgeon about my fistula in my butt, but she must have changed her mind....cause I haven't heard a word from her office today.  They were hoping to get me in this afternoon. 

Yesterday's appointment to see Dr. Nelson was scheduled for 4 p.m. and Janet and I got down here so early we checked into the motel first before coming over to the clinic.  Then sat and waited till about 5:30 before I saw her, then it was after 6 before they were done with me, and then I had to go over to the hospital pharmacy to fill another prescription for antibiotics, so it was after 7 p.m. when we got back to the motel room.  We stopped at Broadway Pizza and ordered a pizza to go, and then Janet went back and picked it up at 7:30....so we ate pizza in our room while watching the first edition of the seasons Biggest Loser.  Kinda of funny eating pizza and watching a 507 pound man trying to exercise off the weight.

At least I am sending the free pie home for Randy to eat.  Not that I have to worry about it.  So anyway, I don't know the results of the CT scan or bloodwork yet, but will have to report that tomorrow morning.  I'll try and write at my usual 9:30 time.  Nothing else to report.  Love and prayers, m

Sunny Sunny Day Hurrah!

But it also brings the cold....my computer says it is -11 in Annandale...probably not much better in Coon Rapids. As long as the sun is shining, I'm okay.  I really think I may have a touch of "SAD" (seasonal affected disorder)....cause I really am much happier when the sun shines.

As I opened up the blog and was about to write, the phone rang and it was my friend Barb S. that I mentioned on Jan. 2 as having problems with her new computer and questioning whether it was old age or the computer.....well I officially apologize....it's the computer.  Even the geek squad couldn't fix it in house, and have to come out to her house and fix it tomorrow.....something about too many firewalls or something like that.  Anyway it was not her.

I went to the funeral yesterday morning, before delivering Meals on Wheels.  The funeral ended with a eulogy given by his second son (1 of 7 sons) Bernie, and I was so impressed at the way he told the story of his fathers life....one of the best eulogies I've ever heard.  He ended with a statement, using baseball, that on Dec. 26th he had hit a long ball and rounded the bases and slid in under the catchers mitt and was safe at HOME.  It really left you feeling so good. 

Carol and I had the same route as last Monday and only 7 recipients....much smaller than usual....and were done by 12:45 again.  One of the men that volunteers all the time, asked if I was the women with cancer? and I said yes, and he couldn't believe I was delivering meals....and also that I looked so good....for a women with cancer.  I chuckeled and thought about something by mom always said when people wondered why in her 70's she was still working, "You get old sitting there looking out the window".  As you can tell by my New Years comments, you not only get old....you get grumpy.  I really need to get out and do something with the life that God has graced me to have.

I didn't accomplish much more yesterday, but did talk to Janet, and set up a schedule for the today.  I need to be at her house by 1:45 so we can be at Mayo by 4 p.m.  I get to see the surgeon, Dr. Nelson, again today.  She is the one who reams out my fistula every other week or so.  But it's been almost 3 weeks since I've seen her....as the last appointment was canceled.....because of what else?  SNOW.  So I hope I'm no worse for that.  I'm pretty sure I'm not any better.

Tomorrow I will start the day with 7 a.m. blood work, and then a 9:15 CT scan.....they say 9:15....but I'm guessing that that is the time they give me a bottle of contrast to drink....and then I get to wait....and wait....till I finally get the scan.  Then I have to see two doctors in the afternoon.  The oncologist and the lung doctor.  I hope to transfer the rest of my care up to Dr. Londer.....he is the oncologist at North Memorial HHH cancer center where I had my chemo last Spring.  Then I won't have to drive to Mayo again in April and stay overnight and have my CT scan there.

I probably won't be writing this blog on time tomorrow, unless I find a computer at Mayo to do it....while I am waiting for the scan.  I will try to do that....cause I won't get back to my house till much later in the day....like 7 p.m. 

Bucky may be going home today....so that is good...I'm guessing Wendy and Ann will have to take turns staying with him during the day, as Annette went back to work yesterday.  So remember to keep them all in your prayers.

Love and prayers, m

Here Comes the Sun!

I got up early again today as I have a lot to do before noon.  When I got up it was still dark and the Sun just came out.  They are talking about more snow.....but the cold is what is here now. The sun makes me feel good no matter how cold it is.

I did my shopping after church yesterday.....and pretty much got everything I wanted or needed to buy....but the furnace filters I bought aren't the size I need in the city....I only hope they are the right size for what I need at the cabin....or I'll have to exchange them....at least I now know what size I need for my furnace and I can go back and get them.

I went to several stores, Borders, Michaels, Target and Cub besides Home Depot....and I still got home to see the second half of the Viking game....but evidently I didn't miss much.  Kinda sad that I had to watch Brett standing on the sidelines not even in uniform for his last official game.  I'm pretty sure he will retire from playing, but it wouldn't surprise me if he didn't continue to do something with the game.  He loves it so much.

Today I will deliver Meals On Wheels, but will start with a funeral for the husband of my Avon lady when we moved to Coon Rapids, in 1964.  When she quite I took over her route, and they belonged to my church and shopped at Jensen's Super Value When I worked there.  So they were long time friends.  They sold their home just a few blocks from us back in the 90's and moved to Epiphany Pines, but they continued to come to St. Tims to church, and I usually sat near them.  But the last few years it has been too hard for them....as they got up their in age.  Bill was 87....very active in our parish, and I know he died peacefully and is with God.  Carol Kline, who helps me with Meals on Wheels also was a friend of theirs....so I will pick her up and we will go to the funeral, and then deliver our route.  

Bucky had a better day yesterday but is getting tired of being in bed and the hospital food....must be getting close to time to go home.  Please keep him and his family in your prayers.

Must get ready to go....have to pick Carol up in 20 minutes.  Love and prayers, m

New Day is Dawning

I've decided to turn a new page and actually shower and get dressed this morning.  I'll go to church do some shopping....maybe watch the Vikes and go to a wake this afternoon.

After my blog yesterday I got several calls and emails.  Barb S. and Mary B. said they haven't celebrated New Years Eve with people for years....a figure a sign we are all getting old.  But did have a few laughs with Barb as she got a new fancy dancy computer and can't get it to send her emails....another sign of age???  Aunt Loretta called and that is always good for a few laughs, and then Kathleen called and Gary made a few cracks to make me laugh, but mostly just to cheer me....as he can't wait to see the "Good Sister".  He lives with the other one.

I didn't do much yesterday other than watch the Rose Bowl parade....play spider on the computer and read the obits....and some HGTV.  Today will be cold but not that bad.  Maybe snow again tomorrow.  Road and snow conditions in the North West corner of the State and Fargo are still horrid.  I94 is still closed and so is Hwy 10.  But outside my window all is well, we only got a dusting yesterday.

Time to shower....church at 9 a.m. Keep those prayers coming for Bucky and my butt!  Love and prayers, m

Happy New Year!

2011 couldn't come soon enough.  Last night has to be the worst New Years Eve I've ever had.  I've never celebrated New Years Eve by myself!...and I hope never to do it again.  Then on top of that I got a call from Jimbo that his father-in-law Bucky was back in the hospital.  Blood clots in his lungs!!  So not only did he spend Christmas in the Hospital....but now New Years Eve too.  They think he will be there about five days.  Fortunately because of the winter storm in Northern MN where his brothers live, they decided to put off their trip and Christmas dinner till next weekend.

I woke to snow!!  The only good thing about it is that everything looks clean and white again....maybe a reminder from God that 2010 is gone and we are starting fresh in 2011.  It's a very light snow, and they don't predict much....but the wind may be the problem today....making windchills of -17.  Today is looking like another boring day.  I do have some shopping I could do....but I don't know if I want to go out in the cold, however, if I don't do it today I have to do it tomorrow....and they aren't predicting it to be any better in that department either.  So we'll see.  I have to get dressed and go to church in the morning, so maybe that will be my incentive to do the shopping as well.  I need groceries and I also need to buy a few gifts, two birthdays in Jan. and a baby shower.

Here's hoping that 2011 will be happy and healthy for all!! Keep those thoughts and prayers coming.  Love and prayers, m