Hello,
Coming home was not quite as uneventful as expected. Leroy went out to move the car Friday evening so that Brian and Jen could get their car out of the garage. Unfortunately ours would not start. About half an hour later Leroy tried again and it started right up.
I kept trying to foster optimism saying, “It will start in the morning. Usually when it does not start it will then start every time for a month or more.”
After all the last time it did not start was in Utah in late August.
In the morning when we wanted to leave it would not start. After waiting and trying again, Brian and Leroy tried jumping it. Guess they did not leap high enough because it was unsuccessful. Then after an additional wait it started but the check engine light was on. Brian tried to call the dealer in town only to be put on hold. I went out to take a plant out of the car so it would not freeze and found the light had gone off. So drove on home. We got the expensive gas in the city so that if it would not start again, Brian could come and help us get to their house. We have had no trouble since then, but it is a bit unnerving wondering if this vehicle will start. When we have taken it to a mechanic they tell us that it must not be working or they cannot ascertain the problem.
We also can not get the windows down. Leroy thinks that is a fuse, but he is unable to figure out which one it is so we will take that to a shop on Saturday. I am just grateful that the window did not go down only to not go back up. It would have been a frightfully cold drive in the 12 degree weather in MN.
At one point we went past an accident. I am so grateful for all of those people who work on holidays so the rest of us can drive like crazy and possibly kill ourselves.
It also helps to put things in perspective. After all how much trouble is a car that will not start and the windows stay up?
Paula
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Gone and Back
Hello,
Thanksgiving day we set out for the long drive to Brian’s house with a degree caution and concern for the condition of the roads, but all was good. Evidence of ice started appearing as we were about three hours from home but no ice on the road. It was also noticeably colder as we were headed north. Then in about another hour snow was on the ground, but not on the road. By the time we got to Brian’s house the grass was hidden under the layer of snow.
We had made excellent time so were there in the early afternoon. Our greeting party of granddaughter and dog was exciting and welcoming. It must have been 8.9 on the Richter scale with shouts, jiggling and hugging for all. Such a gift to be treasured and savored.
There was some family talk about going to the sales on Friday, but instead we got our knives sharpened at a small shop that Brian knew about. He had suggested that we bring our knives so we did just that. On the way home from sharpening he had planned to stop at a store, but could not find a parking place so we just went back home.
Personally I found looking at the ads an overwhelming task. There were so many that it was difficult to keep my mind on what I might want. Most things I did not need. We do not buy many gifts as we give our granddaughters money for their college funds. It is our understanding that they get plenty of gifts from other sources. I have bought a small gift for each of them. This year we drew names for our children and their spouses so we are not getting many gifts there either. Leroy keeps saying, “I have not thought of anything for you.”
My reply is, “I have not even thought about getting you something.”
I would not mind if we did not get gifts for each other, but I think Leroy would be quite disappointed as he likes to open a surprise. Surprises are not my skill.
Paula
Thanksgiving day we set out for the long drive to Brian’s house with a degree caution and concern for the condition of the roads, but all was good. Evidence of ice started appearing as we were about three hours from home but no ice on the road. It was also noticeably colder as we were headed north. Then in about another hour snow was on the ground, but not on the road. By the time we got to Brian’s house the grass was hidden under the layer of snow.
We had made excellent time so were there in the early afternoon. Our greeting party of granddaughter and dog was exciting and welcoming. It must have been 8.9 on the Richter scale with shouts, jiggling and hugging for all. Such a gift to be treasured and savored.
There was some family talk about going to the sales on Friday, but instead we got our knives sharpened at a small shop that Brian knew about. He had suggested that we bring our knives so we did just that. On the way home from sharpening he had planned to stop at a store, but could not find a parking place so we just went back home.
Personally I found looking at the ads an overwhelming task. There were so many that it was difficult to keep my mind on what I might want. Most things I did not need. We do not buy many gifts as we give our granddaughters money for their college funds. It is our understanding that they get plenty of gifts from other sources. I have bought a small gift for each of them. This year we drew names for our children and their spouses so we are not getting many gifts there either. Leroy keeps saying, “I have not thought of anything for you.”
My reply is, “I have not even thought about getting you something.”
I would not mind if we did not get gifts for each other, but I think Leroy would be quite disappointed as he likes to open a surprise. Surprises are not my skill.
Paula
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Impulse Buy
Hello,
On my list of stops were the library, a drug store, and two grocery stores. The library was there because I had been notified that a book I had requested had come in. Now the problem was that I would not be able to go on my regular days of Thursday or Friday. I might get there on Monday but if not they would put it back in circulation. By looking at the map I realized I could make a rather large box on my trip around town and it would all make sense.
Leroy said, “I want to come too since I have to work tonight.” The afternoon was the perfect time even though the wind was strong, temperatures were low, and some rain was falling from time to time.
All went according to plan, but at one of the grocery stores I noticed in the checkout line, the man behind me had a poinsettia.
“Why didn’t I see them?” I wondered, “And where were they?”
Good thing I had Leroy with me because he spotted them. He looked and saw the price was a mere $3.50. I immediately ran over and got one. It is perhaps not the largest in the world with only five blossoms, but it is a brilliant red and vigorous looking. I am so pleased and excited to have it. Blessed again in an unexpected way.
There was a time in my life when I was not thrilled with poinsettias. I even wondered what all the fuss was about.
When we lived in Missouri Valley the funeral home would give the ministers candy for Christmas. Because I was not into eating that or having my children eat it I always gave it away. One year I had decided to let us eat it. (Had Leroy begged me?) That year instead of giving us candy we were given a beautiful poinsettia that I loved more with the passing days. Saved from chocolate by a flower! I had to like that.
Paula
On my list of stops were the library, a drug store, and two grocery stores. The library was there because I had been notified that a book I had requested had come in. Now the problem was that I would not be able to go on my regular days of Thursday or Friday. I might get there on Monday but if not they would put it back in circulation. By looking at the map I realized I could make a rather large box on my trip around town and it would all make sense.
Leroy said, “I want to come too since I have to work tonight.” The afternoon was the perfect time even though the wind was strong, temperatures were low, and some rain was falling from time to time.
All went according to plan, but at one of the grocery stores I noticed in the checkout line, the man behind me had a poinsettia.
“Why didn’t I see them?” I wondered, “And where were they?”
Good thing I had Leroy with me because he spotted them. He looked and saw the price was a mere $3.50. I immediately ran over and got one. It is perhaps not the largest in the world with only five blossoms, but it is a brilliant red and vigorous looking. I am so pleased and excited to have it. Blessed again in an unexpected way.
There was a time in my life when I was not thrilled with poinsettias. I even wondered what all the fuss was about.
When we lived in Missouri Valley the funeral home would give the ministers candy for Christmas. Because I was not into eating that or having my children eat it I always gave it away. One year I had decided to let us eat it. (Had Leroy begged me?) That year instead of giving us candy we were given a beautiful poinsettia that I loved more with the passing days. Saved from chocolate by a flower! I had to like that.
Paula
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Cleaned Upstairs
Hello,
I cleaned upstairs this morning. Mostly I did it because there were some dust bunnies and lint on the floor when we gave our company the house tour. It was embarrassing to see that. Then I found that Leroy noticed it too. Oh, no that is really bad. Now this cleaning job adds new meaning to the phrase about closing the barn door when the horse is gone.
There was a good assortment of those Asian beetles to vacuum up. The warmth of the last few days has encouraged them to come in and enjoy the house. I am thankful that I have a vacuum. I broom does not work as well with them as they seem to fall apart with too much pressure and if they are still alive they escape to show up in another place. Perhaps now that colder temperatures are here we have seen the last of those beetles until spring.
The vacuum cam out, rugs were shaken, and all looks better. I feel better both physically and mentally. I had to sit and rest in the middle of the job, otherwise it went well. Before this I simply did not have the energy to tackle any job that required more than a minimum amount of strength. The coughing had mostly subsided, but all was still not well as lethargy hung around. Leroy too tells me that I am acting much more lively than I have for a long time. Where do these bugs come from that they stay and take up residence? Couldn’t they move on to another victim? Or just live and die in a faster cycle. I used to think that a week was the maximum for any disease to hang around.
Today, I am making whole wheat bread as well as some sweet bread that has cranberries in it. I have gotten several bags of the berries since they are a seasonal item. I like to put them in things where I do not have to add so much sugar to the mix. I even cut the sugar in the recipe. We will see if Leroy and I just pucker up all the time.
Paula
I cleaned upstairs this morning. Mostly I did it because there were some dust bunnies and lint on the floor when we gave our company the house tour. It was embarrassing to see that. Then I found that Leroy noticed it too. Oh, no that is really bad. Now this cleaning job adds new meaning to the phrase about closing the barn door when the horse is gone.
There was a good assortment of those Asian beetles to vacuum up. The warmth of the last few days has encouraged them to come in and enjoy the house. I am thankful that I have a vacuum. I broom does not work as well with them as they seem to fall apart with too much pressure and if they are still alive they escape to show up in another place. Perhaps now that colder temperatures are here we have seen the last of those beetles until spring.
The vacuum cam out, rugs were shaken, and all looks better. I feel better both physically and mentally. I had to sit and rest in the middle of the job, otherwise it went well. Before this I simply did not have the energy to tackle any job that required more than a minimum amount of strength. The coughing had mostly subsided, but all was still not well as lethargy hung around. Leroy too tells me that I am acting much more lively than I have for a long time. Where do these bugs come from that they stay and take up residence? Couldn’t they move on to another victim? Or just live and die in a faster cycle. I used to think that a week was the maximum for any disease to hang around.
Today, I am making whole wheat bread as well as some sweet bread that has cranberries in it. I have gotten several bags of the berries since they are a seasonal item. I like to put them in things where I do not have to add so much sugar to the mix. I even cut the sugar in the recipe. We will see if Leroy and I just pucker up all the time.
Paula
Monday, November 22, 2010
Visitors
Hello,
We had visitors stop on their way south. That was so nice. I just really like to talk to someone who has been in my life for a while. It is as good as slipping into a comfortable pair of shoes. Leroy tells me that I looked happy. I certainly felt happy. Even Leroy enjoyed it and he does not know them so very well. We are blessed.
After that great visit we went out and took a walk. I assured Leroy that I wanted to walk longer in the balmy weather so we headed off on one of the trails that leads to a spring coming out of the side of the bluff above the Mississippi. “Are you sure it is dry enough so we won’t slip?” I wondered as we started. Even though it was warm there was some dampness.
For protection on part of the trail there is a single strand of a seriously strong wire strung on two by four sized steel posts that have been cemented into the ground. Seeing one of these posts washed out and the cement bottom dangling in the air, I commented, “It certainly does not inspire confidence that it will hold me up if I should fall.”
In a part of the trail the path is so narrow that the steel presses the waist on one side with the rocks touching on the other.
I did ok going down, but for some reason on the way back, in one place that was trickier to navigate upright, I bent down to use the rock above as a grasping point. Then for a number of feet I found myself too uncomfortable to stand so I foraged on with my hands firmly on the soil and my bottom up. Leroy, who was behind me assured me that it was safe to stand, but I could not bring myself to let go for a few more steps. Guess I am not ready to climb mountains.
At the site of the spring there was a plaque that had been put up the DAR in 1915 stating that this was BlackHawk Spring. BlackHawk was a chief of the Sauk and Fox Indians who used the spring when they were in the area in the early 1800’s.
Paula
We had visitors stop on their way south. That was so nice. I just really like to talk to someone who has been in my life for a while. It is as good as slipping into a comfortable pair of shoes. Leroy tells me that I looked happy. I certainly felt happy. Even Leroy enjoyed it and he does not know them so very well. We are blessed.
After that great visit we went out and took a walk. I assured Leroy that I wanted to walk longer in the balmy weather so we headed off on one of the trails that leads to a spring coming out of the side of the bluff above the Mississippi. “Are you sure it is dry enough so we won’t slip?” I wondered as we started. Even though it was warm there was some dampness.
For protection on part of the trail there is a single strand of a seriously strong wire strung on two by four sized steel posts that have been cemented into the ground. Seeing one of these posts washed out and the cement bottom dangling in the air, I commented, “It certainly does not inspire confidence that it will hold me up if I should fall.”
In a part of the trail the path is so narrow that the steel presses the waist on one side with the rocks touching on the other.
I did ok going down, but for some reason on the way back, in one place that was trickier to navigate upright, I bent down to use the rock above as a grasping point. Then for a number of feet I found myself too uncomfortable to stand so I foraged on with my hands firmly on the soil and my bottom up. Leroy, who was behind me assured me that it was safe to stand, but I could not bring myself to let go for a few more steps. Guess I am not ready to climb mountains.
At the site of the spring there was a plaque that had been put up the DAR in 1915 stating that this was BlackHawk Spring. BlackHawk was a chief of the Sauk and Fox Indians who used the spring when they were in the area in the early 1800’s.
Paula
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Dresses and Heels
Hello,
Moving involves more than what goes where in the house, meeting new people, learning your way around town, and learning the local culture. It involves clothing preferences. Most of the time in the Chariton church I was the only woman who wanted to wear a dress or skirt. Now in Burlington it is a different story as several women wear dresses or skits. Not only do they wear more swirly things than I own, they also wear heels—high heels.
I have not worn heels since sometime in the middle 90’s when I got a toenail fungus. That changed my life. It was too painful to have my toes press down into the end of the shoe. Flats were fine after I made the mental adjustment. Flats in which I might even have felt superior to what damage those other women were doing to their feet.
I just tried to buy a new pair of black flats only to find that none in the better quality, translate that to expensive, shoe store in Burlington felt good on my foot. I ended up with a pair of black clogs. They felt great and looked quite good with my jeans. At home with a skirt, however, it was a different matter. I still think I could benefit from custom made shoes, but Leroy is so selfish. He does not want to spend anywhere from $1000 to $5000 a pair. Can you imagine that?
At this time I will not be joining the crowd on narrow high toe crimping shoes. But how else to look glamorous? There must be a solution. When I could not find a pair of flats that fit, even after ordering some in an unstocked size, the guy in the shoe store told me, “My dad who started this store used to say, would you look better with a pained expression and ill fitting shoes or a smile and perfectly fitting shoes.”
Life is full of tough choices and downsizing possibilities. Should I just get a closet full of slacks? Some of these women wear those same high pointed heels with slacks. Is there no hope?
Paula
Moving involves more than what goes where in the house, meeting new people, learning your way around town, and learning the local culture. It involves clothing preferences. Most of the time in the Chariton church I was the only woman who wanted to wear a dress or skirt. Now in Burlington it is a different story as several women wear dresses or skits. Not only do they wear more swirly things than I own, they also wear heels—high heels.
I have not worn heels since sometime in the middle 90’s when I got a toenail fungus. That changed my life. It was too painful to have my toes press down into the end of the shoe. Flats were fine after I made the mental adjustment. Flats in which I might even have felt superior to what damage those other women were doing to their feet.
I just tried to buy a new pair of black flats only to find that none in the better quality, translate that to expensive, shoe store in Burlington felt good on my foot. I ended up with a pair of black clogs. They felt great and looked quite good with my jeans. At home with a skirt, however, it was a different matter. I still think I could benefit from custom made shoes, but Leroy is so selfish. He does not want to spend anywhere from $1000 to $5000 a pair. Can you imagine that?
At this time I will not be joining the crowd on narrow high toe crimping shoes. But how else to look glamorous? There must be a solution. When I could not find a pair of flats that fit, even after ordering some in an unstocked size, the guy in the shoe store told me, “My dad who started this store used to say, would you look better with a pained expression and ill fitting shoes or a smile and perfectly fitting shoes.”
Life is full of tough choices and downsizing possibilities. Should I just get a closet full of slacks? Some of these women wear those same high pointed heels with slacks. Is there no hope?
Paula
Friday, November 19, 2010
Safety
Hello,
Sarah called this morning to tell us that someone had broken or kicked in their door tearing it off the frame. The intruders proceeded to rob them as they were in bed upstairs. Such a frightening occurrence! I am grateful that they were all safe.
They did take Stephen’s IPhone and wallet. Luckily they did not take Sarah’s purse because her phone was in there. Stephen and Sarah do not have a landline so would have had no other way of calling someone.
Later in the morning Stephen was notified by someone in his office that some of his wallet contents had been found and would be returned to him. They cancelled all of their credit cards so that should be ok, annoying and time consuming, but ok.
Even thought it was a solid back door that was assaulted it makes us realize that safety is an illusion and we must trust that we will be able to walk through all possibilities.
After this call Leroy and I moved the spare key that is outside our house. We did not think it was a very good place to put it. Apparently the last pastor had it in this spot for years with no trouble. Now the question is where to put it? Some of the property committee members have a key to the house, but they like one on the place so they do not have to remember to bring their own if they need to get into the house. Leroy and I have not been locked out of the house, but it is nice to have another key handy since we do not plan to break the door to enter.
I can not imagine having someone violate my space as seriously as happened this morning. On the plus side the police arrived within five minutes of being called. DC police are good or at least they were close enough to come quickly.
Paula
Sarah called this morning to tell us that someone had broken or kicked in their door tearing it off the frame. The intruders proceeded to rob them as they were in bed upstairs. Such a frightening occurrence! I am grateful that they were all safe.
They did take Stephen’s IPhone and wallet. Luckily they did not take Sarah’s purse because her phone was in there. Stephen and Sarah do not have a landline so would have had no other way of calling someone.
Later in the morning Stephen was notified by someone in his office that some of his wallet contents had been found and would be returned to him. They cancelled all of their credit cards so that should be ok, annoying and time consuming, but ok.
Even thought it was a solid back door that was assaulted it makes us realize that safety is an illusion and we must trust that we will be able to walk through all possibilities.
After this call Leroy and I moved the spare key that is outside our house. We did not think it was a very good place to put it. Apparently the last pastor had it in this spot for years with no trouble. Now the question is where to put it? Some of the property committee members have a key to the house, but they like one on the place so they do not have to remember to bring their own if they need to get into the house. Leroy and I have not been locked out of the house, but it is nice to have another key handy since we do not plan to break the door to enter.
I can not imagine having someone violate my space as seriously as happened this morning. On the plus side the police arrived within five minutes of being called. DC police are good or at least they were close enough to come quickly.
Paula
Thursday, November 18, 2010
TV
Hello,
If you asked I would say that we do not watch much TV. Therefore it seems an inefficient use of funds to buy cable. Unfortunately here our rabbit ears are having a hard time getting the signal. Helping measures have been to move the TV upstairs, jiggle the antenna when necessary, avoid foul language if upset, or just turn off the TV in disgust. Most of the time it works, but sometimes requires some coaxing.
Today while out and about I bought an additional antenna that was according to the packaging, better than the old fashioned antenna, could be used in any position, and would increase our enjoyment.
Leroy eagerly set it up after lunch. It was not better, but decidedly worse. Now you should know that our TV is at least 15 years old, but it still “runs good”. There were suggestions of solutions if this new antenna did not work well, some of those involved taking off an amplifier. Each time when making a change it required rescanning for channels. That scan takes a few minutes. Each time we would wait with great expectations for greater clarity only to be disappointed.
Perhaps it would be better in Leroy’s stamp room since that was in the north and closer to the source of the signal. It took two of us to move this old TV and all its accompanying wires because of the converter box, VCR, DVD player, as well as the box that allows us to use equipment that does not have the same compatible chord endings.
Then we proceeded to run through the little repertroire that we had acquired in the first room. All to see a distorted picture that would become frozen in time for longer than anyone wanted to look at it.
I finally went back to the kitchen and Leroy packed up the antenna so we could return it. Our rabbit ears work so much better that we realize we have been ungrateful to them. Everyday now that we use the TV and it works we will say, “Thank you rabbit ears.”
I even suggested that we get cable, but Leroy said, “Why? We hardly watch TV.”
Paula
If you asked I would say that we do not watch much TV. Therefore it seems an inefficient use of funds to buy cable. Unfortunately here our rabbit ears are having a hard time getting the signal. Helping measures have been to move the TV upstairs, jiggle the antenna when necessary, avoid foul language if upset, or just turn off the TV in disgust. Most of the time it works, but sometimes requires some coaxing.
Today while out and about I bought an additional antenna that was according to the packaging, better than the old fashioned antenna, could be used in any position, and would increase our enjoyment.
Leroy eagerly set it up after lunch. It was not better, but decidedly worse. Now you should know that our TV is at least 15 years old, but it still “runs good”. There were suggestions of solutions if this new antenna did not work well, some of those involved taking off an amplifier. Each time when making a change it required rescanning for channels. That scan takes a few minutes. Each time we would wait with great expectations for greater clarity only to be disappointed.
Perhaps it would be better in Leroy’s stamp room since that was in the north and closer to the source of the signal. It took two of us to move this old TV and all its accompanying wires because of the converter box, VCR, DVD player, as well as the box that allows us to use equipment that does not have the same compatible chord endings.
Then we proceeded to run through the little repertroire that we had acquired in the first room. All to see a distorted picture that would become frozen in time for longer than anyone wanted to look at it.
I finally went back to the kitchen and Leroy packed up the antenna so we could return it. Our rabbit ears work so much better that we realize we have been ungrateful to them. Everyday now that we use the TV and it works we will say, “Thank you rabbit ears.”
I even suggested that we get cable, but Leroy said, “Why? We hardly watch TV.”
Paula
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Feeling Better
Hello,
I feel better today than I have for some time. My voice is better than yesterday. The number of coughing fits is less and the strength has diminished. Maybe it is because of that great cheery greeter yesterday or maybe it is because I have done some of the things I am always telling Leroy to do when he has a head issue. Just in case you would like to apply them yourself they are: gargle with warm/hot salt water, rinse the sinus, drink more fluids. I did all of that yesterday with some religious devotion. Previously I had attended to some of these things, but very sporadically. After all I did not really feel too bad. I am also running a humidifier downstairs and that might be helping as well. Health is really a mystery, especially when I change several variables at once.
Leroy noted this morning that the park looks so different with most of the leaves gone. Where it had once seemed that we were secluded and cut off from the rest of the world there is a house just a little ways through the trees. Illusions, illusions! We also walked to a different overlook of the Mississippi that was very nice. We had been there once before and not been particularly taken with it. Again the lack of leaves gave us a much broader view.
Those Frisbee players were out there again. I should just wait until it snows and check about them then. Yesterday there were kids using the skateboard/bike ramps. I am impressed with all of the things they can do with those little bikes as they careen up the sides and bang to a stop at the top only to whirl around and do it again in another direction. Here I am just happy to stay upright with my bike on the straight road. Guess I do not have enough testosterone, but all of that does look exciting.
Paula
I feel better today than I have for some time. My voice is better than yesterday. The number of coughing fits is less and the strength has diminished. Maybe it is because of that great cheery greeter yesterday or maybe it is because I have done some of the things I am always telling Leroy to do when he has a head issue. Just in case you would like to apply them yourself they are: gargle with warm/hot salt water, rinse the sinus, drink more fluids. I did all of that yesterday with some religious devotion. Previously I had attended to some of these things, but very sporadically. After all I did not really feel too bad. I am also running a humidifier downstairs and that might be helping as well. Health is really a mystery, especially when I change several variables at once.
Leroy noted this morning that the park looks so different with most of the leaves gone. Where it had once seemed that we were secluded and cut off from the rest of the world there is a house just a little ways through the trees. Illusions, illusions! We also walked to a different overlook of the Mississippi that was very nice. We had been there once before and not been particularly taken with it. Again the lack of leaves gave us a much broader view.
Those Frisbee players were out there again. I should just wait until it snows and check about them then. Yesterday there were kids using the skateboard/bike ramps. I am impressed with all of the things they can do with those little bikes as they careen up the sides and bang to a stop at the top only to whirl around and do it again in another direction. Here I am just happy to stay upright with my bike on the straight road. Guess I do not have enough testosterone, but all of that does look exciting.
Paula
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Greetings
Hello,
Today a greeter for Des Moines County visited me. Why this is Des Moines County and the city of Des Moines is in Polk County is not in my handy bag of information.
This gracious woman welcomed me to the area. She came supplied with offers and deals from local health care people as well as merchants. There were even a few little gifts such as glasses cleaner, glasses cleaning cloth, and a glasses case. Does this eye doctor want me to come? One of the chiropractors sent along a key chain, another sent a pen, and a third a sample of pain relief ointment.
I can now get free haircuts and styles from two places. The third salon has a special offer on hair color, highlights, perm, or a free eyebrow job with a haircut. This should keep me looking good for a few days.
If we had not already gotten our symphony tickets we could have had a free concert. Another musical series, more Broadway type things is offering a free concert or two season tickets at half price.
Then there is a free oil change. Another store offered $5 off on any purchase of $10 or more.
My old friends, Hy-Vee, gave a box of salt along with a coupon for free Pepsi, free box of ice cream, and a free bouquet of flowers the flowers seem to be the best fit, but I will enjoy the ice cream too. Leroy, unwilling to let me eat it alone said, “I can take a pill and have some too.” We are not sure what do with the Pepsi since neither of us drinks it. “Surely, you can think of something to do with it at church,” I suggested.
We do have to go three different weeks to get these free items as they want to have us visit the store and pick up six things that were not on the list.
Now if it had been free soy milk we would have been happy as clams. Speaking of soy, another store also offered a free soy candle. There were some other things, but I can not think of them right now. Oh and a green house wants to give me a plant. I was pleased. Gifts out of the blue are nice.
My welcomer did tell me that this is her own business. She worked for Welcome Wagon some years ago, but they closed.
Paula
Today a greeter for Des Moines County visited me. Why this is Des Moines County and the city of Des Moines is in Polk County is not in my handy bag of information.
This gracious woman welcomed me to the area. She came supplied with offers and deals from local health care people as well as merchants. There were even a few little gifts such as glasses cleaner, glasses cleaning cloth, and a glasses case. Does this eye doctor want me to come? One of the chiropractors sent along a key chain, another sent a pen, and a third a sample of pain relief ointment.
I can now get free haircuts and styles from two places. The third salon has a special offer on hair color, highlights, perm, or a free eyebrow job with a haircut. This should keep me looking good for a few days.
If we had not already gotten our symphony tickets we could have had a free concert. Another musical series, more Broadway type things is offering a free concert or two season tickets at half price.
Then there is a free oil change. Another store offered $5 off on any purchase of $10 or more.
My old friends, Hy-Vee, gave a box of salt along with a coupon for free Pepsi, free box of ice cream, and a free bouquet of flowers the flowers seem to be the best fit, but I will enjoy the ice cream too. Leroy, unwilling to let me eat it alone said, “I can take a pill and have some too.” We are not sure what do with the Pepsi since neither of us drinks it. “Surely, you can think of something to do with it at church,” I suggested.
We do have to go three different weeks to get these free items as they want to have us visit the store and pick up six things that were not on the list.
Now if it had been free soy milk we would have been happy as clams. Speaking of soy, another store also offered a free soy candle. There were some other things, but I can not think of them right now. Oh and a green house wants to give me a plant. I was pleased. Gifts out of the blue are nice.
My welcomer did tell me that this is her own business. She worked for Welcome Wagon some years ago, but they closed.
Paula
Monday, November 15, 2010
Thanksgiving plans
Hello,
We are going to Brian, Jen, and Sophia’s house for thanksgiving. Yes. I am looking forward to that. Saturday Brian told us they do not have plans and they do not want to travel as Jen is expecting a baby in March and is uncomfortable with stomach issues. We are welcome to come to their house so we are traveling on Thursday as Leroy works Wednesday night. We will be there Friday, and come home Saturday. Leroy will be working on Sunday. He tells me that is not much sermon prep time. He also has an appointment for Saturday afternoon that is trying to change to later in the day or even Sunday. It is a faster trip than most, but better than none.
We had made plans with Leroy’s sister to work at the community thanksgiving meal, but we are ditching them since we are only fifteen miles away from them. That means we can get together anytime, but will we do it? That is the real question.
The coughing is no longer so bad for me, but still occurs everyday. My throat is irritated and today I am losing my voice meaning that silence reigns in this house. Leroy seems to dislike having a monologue. I am ready to be done with this malaise. It just hangs on without being a huge thing, but drags me down.
One deer was out while we were this morning. As I am dragging along a respectful ten paces behind Leroy, he finally turned around and said, “I worry about you.” I felt reassured that he had noticed that I was unable to keep up his fast pace.
The sun was shinning so I hung out clothes. My fingers were chilled to the bone when finished. Leroy came home for lunch and he told me that it was sprinkling a little. We dashed out and got all clothes off the lines and into the dryer. Then the sun came back out. Such fickle fall weather.
Paula
We are going to Brian, Jen, and Sophia’s house for thanksgiving. Yes. I am looking forward to that. Saturday Brian told us they do not have plans and they do not want to travel as Jen is expecting a baby in March and is uncomfortable with stomach issues. We are welcome to come to their house so we are traveling on Thursday as Leroy works Wednesday night. We will be there Friday, and come home Saturday. Leroy will be working on Sunday. He tells me that is not much sermon prep time. He also has an appointment for Saturday afternoon that is trying to change to later in the day or even Sunday. It is a faster trip than most, but better than none.
We had made plans with Leroy’s sister to work at the community thanksgiving meal, but we are ditching them since we are only fifteen miles away from them. That means we can get together anytime, but will we do it? That is the real question.
The coughing is no longer so bad for me, but still occurs everyday. My throat is irritated and today I am losing my voice meaning that silence reigns in this house. Leroy seems to dislike having a monologue. I am ready to be done with this malaise. It just hangs on without being a huge thing, but drags me down.
One deer was out while we were this morning. As I am dragging along a respectful ten paces behind Leroy, he finally turned around and said, “I worry about you.” I felt reassured that he had noticed that I was unable to keep up his fast pace.
The sun was shinning so I hung out clothes. My fingers were chilled to the bone when finished. Leroy came home for lunch and he told me that it was sprinkling a little. We dashed out and got all clothes off the lines and into the dryer. Then the sun came back out. Such fickle fall weather.
Paula
Friday, November 12, 2010
Struggles Overcome
Hello,
Yesterday afternoon it was warm enough that I hopped on the bike and rode around the route we walked that morning. It was more than a mile and in fact it was 1.75 miles. So that was a bit better to get that done in 30 minutes. Unfortunately Leroy could go faster without me. Fortunately I am good company.
This morning we went to a hardware store because they sent us a coupon for 10% off any purchase because we are new in the neighborhood. Of course we had to use that. It took a bit of walking around this warehouse type space to find a few things to purchase. Then it was off to the grocery store for a fairly quick pick up as I had an abbreviated list.
Leroy had broken a guitar string before he even got started tuning and he wanted to buy some of the current stamps for his collection. Both of those stops are downtown. Since the library is near by we went there too.
“Goodness,” Leroy exclaimed on the way home, “it is almost noon.”
I glanced at the clock in the car and saw that it was indeed. “Well shopping always takes longer than I think it will,” I sympathized.
I rushed around in the house putting things away, Leroy helped with that, and starting to organize lunch.
Then I looked at the clock. “It is just about 11:00,” I said, “the car clock is still on daylight savings time.”
After putting away lunch things I went out to reset the car clock. I pushed the button that I thought would do it and no luck. Then I pushed another likely button only to have the screen display state that all cd’s would be ejected. In short order I was grabbing and spreading six cds on the driver’s seat. When I tried to read the instruction manual the light in the car kept going out and I did not think to just flip the switch to leave it on.
Leroy came out with a basket of clothes so I stopped doing the irritating thing and took on a task that is totally familiar. When the clothes were hung up I went back to the car.
I solved the problem of having the inside light stay on, read the instructions, and grumbled under my breath since that is what I had first pushed. None the less, I gave it another chance and it preformed admirably. Time is set. Now on to the task of getting the cds loaded again. I remembered which button was needed for that and as soon as it told me to load I did. So now we can drive the car again with music playing and schedules accurate.
However the time is still wrong on the bike computer. We have no instructions for that since it is new and we were not given any. They are probably on the internet. I will not ride it much in these darker shorter days so I may just leave it the way it is, although I have been sure I was late for something one day.
Paula
Yesterday afternoon it was warm enough that I hopped on the bike and rode around the route we walked that morning. It was more than a mile and in fact it was 1.75 miles. So that was a bit better to get that done in 30 minutes. Unfortunately Leroy could go faster without me. Fortunately I am good company.
This morning we went to a hardware store because they sent us a coupon for 10% off any purchase because we are new in the neighborhood. Of course we had to use that. It took a bit of walking around this warehouse type space to find a few things to purchase. Then it was off to the grocery store for a fairly quick pick up as I had an abbreviated list.
Leroy had broken a guitar string before he even got started tuning and he wanted to buy some of the current stamps for his collection. Both of those stops are downtown. Since the library is near by we went there too.
“Goodness,” Leroy exclaimed on the way home, “it is almost noon.”
I glanced at the clock in the car and saw that it was indeed. “Well shopping always takes longer than I think it will,” I sympathized.
I rushed around in the house putting things away, Leroy helped with that, and starting to organize lunch.
Then I looked at the clock. “It is just about 11:00,” I said, “the car clock is still on daylight savings time.”
After putting away lunch things I went out to reset the car clock. I pushed the button that I thought would do it and no luck. Then I pushed another likely button only to have the screen display state that all cd’s would be ejected. In short order I was grabbing and spreading six cds on the driver’s seat. When I tried to read the instruction manual the light in the car kept going out and I did not think to just flip the switch to leave it on.
Leroy came out with a basket of clothes so I stopped doing the irritating thing and took on a task that is totally familiar. When the clothes were hung up I went back to the car.
I solved the problem of having the inside light stay on, read the instructions, and grumbled under my breath since that is what I had first pushed. None the less, I gave it another chance and it preformed admirably. Time is set. Now on to the task of getting the cds loaded again. I remembered which button was needed for that and as soon as it told me to load I did. So now we can drive the car again with music playing and schedules accurate.
However the time is still wrong on the bike computer. We have no instructions for that since it is new and we were not given any. They are probably on the internet. I will not ride it much in these darker shorter days so I may just leave it the way it is, although I have been sure I was late for something one day.
Paula
Thursday, November 11, 2010
biking Days
Hello,
Biking days are over for a time for me. I rode wearing shorts and short sleeves the first three days of this week in the unseasonably warm weather. It was great to be able to do that, but it is much cooler now. Leroy and I walked this morning. I still might go out and see what the bike odometer says for the distance that we walked. My pedometer says it was only about a mile, however it took us almost 30 minutes and I know that Leroy walks fast as he often pulls out ahead of me. My breathing is not yet back to normal so I do slow the pace some, but surely not that much.
In spite of cooler temperatures I still see many people (99% men) out using the Frisbee golf course in the park. There are apparently 18 holes so I surely do not see all of the people. I had no idea it is such a popular sport. I am glad to see it as people do a lot of walking to get around the entire place. Good exercise for them and great to be outside with no golf carts transporting them.
As we are now walking in the morning light we have seen deer almost every day this week. That says they were there before just hidden in the darkness. A couple of them have nice antlers.
On All Saints Sunday they had a cross set up in which people could place lit candles in memory of their loved ones. It was touching and I noticed several tears. One thing about moving around to so many churches we see many different ways of doing things. One thing is constant. The comment, “But we have always done it that way.” That tradition gives it solidarity in their minds even though not necessarily in ours because we can think of other possibilities.
Paula
Biking days are over for a time for me. I rode wearing shorts and short sleeves the first three days of this week in the unseasonably warm weather. It was great to be able to do that, but it is much cooler now. Leroy and I walked this morning. I still might go out and see what the bike odometer says for the distance that we walked. My pedometer says it was only about a mile, however it took us almost 30 minutes and I know that Leroy walks fast as he often pulls out ahead of me. My breathing is not yet back to normal so I do slow the pace some, but surely not that much.
In spite of cooler temperatures I still see many people (99% men) out using the Frisbee golf course in the park. There are apparently 18 holes so I surely do not see all of the people. I had no idea it is such a popular sport. I am glad to see it as people do a lot of walking to get around the entire place. Good exercise for them and great to be outside with no golf carts transporting them.
As we are now walking in the morning light we have seen deer almost every day this week. That says they were there before just hidden in the darkness. A couple of them have nice antlers.
On All Saints Sunday they had a cross set up in which people could place lit candles in memory of their loved ones. It was touching and I noticed several tears. One thing about moving around to so many churches we see many different ways of doing things. One thing is constant. The comment, “But we have always done it that way.” That tradition gives it solidarity in their minds even though not necessarily in ours because we can think of other possibilities.
Paula
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Buying Club
Hello,
Many years ago we belonged to a buying club. This meant that we could buy health foods at a discount. Many of them were purchased in bulk and divided among members. If no one else wanted the particular item then you either had to buy all of it or forgo the purchase.
We like molasses. No one else wanted blackstrap molasses so we bought the entire five gallons, or maybe it was a smaller amount. It was quite a lot of molasses. I had put some in used and cleaned ice cream buckets.
At this same era Leroy changed the oil in the car. He saw one of these ice cream buckets half full, thinking it was his with oil in it he proceeded to fill it with used car oil. Needless to say we did not eat that molasses. We decided that it was a blessing he had not, thinking it was oil, poured the molasses in the car.
We are back in a buying club. Now however, people do not buy so many unprocessed things. I am the only one who wants sesame seeds, soy flour, and alfalfa seeds. The alfalfa seeds are for sprouting. I purchased five pounds all by myself. I am not sure but I think this is a two year supply if I am lucky otherwise it might be enough for 3-5 years. Soon Leroy and I will be sprouting.
I did start some sprouts yesterday and they are growing. That is good. I did have to look up some directions because it had been so long since I had done this. Just think when I did it before I could not have used the internet, but would have had to ask someone or checked at the library. Life has changed.
There is a church group here called the Senior Saints. The noon meeting has pot luck as the focal point. I was quite impressed that there were only two dishes that were something other than veggies. Is this my kind of group or what? Course there was one person who only ate small amounts of two things because it was so many vegetable choices.
Paula
Many years ago we belonged to a buying club. This meant that we could buy health foods at a discount. Many of them were purchased in bulk and divided among members. If no one else wanted the particular item then you either had to buy all of it or forgo the purchase.
We like molasses. No one else wanted blackstrap molasses so we bought the entire five gallons, or maybe it was a smaller amount. It was quite a lot of molasses. I had put some in used and cleaned ice cream buckets.
At this same era Leroy changed the oil in the car. He saw one of these ice cream buckets half full, thinking it was his with oil in it he proceeded to fill it with used car oil. Needless to say we did not eat that molasses. We decided that it was a blessing he had not, thinking it was oil, poured the molasses in the car.
We are back in a buying club. Now however, people do not buy so many unprocessed things. I am the only one who wants sesame seeds, soy flour, and alfalfa seeds. The alfalfa seeds are for sprouting. I purchased five pounds all by myself. I am not sure but I think this is a two year supply if I am lucky otherwise it might be enough for 3-5 years. Soon Leroy and I will be sprouting.
I did start some sprouts yesterday and they are growing. That is good. I did have to look up some directions because it had been so long since I had done this. Just think when I did it before I could not have used the internet, but would have had to ask someone or checked at the library. Life has changed.
There is a church group here called the Senior Saints. The noon meeting has pot luck as the focal point. I was quite impressed that there were only two dishes that were something other than veggies. Is this my kind of group or what? Course there was one person who only ate small amounts of two things because it was so many vegetable choices.
Paula
Monday, November 8, 2010
In the Paper
Hello,
Sunday afternoon the few remaining stores downtown had an open house. It was interesting to see what was there. Many of them had decorative type items that are not really my thing. Moving makes all of that seem much less attractive and I was never very into it anyway. There was also a health food store that I will probably patronize. Leroy got a guitar tuner from the music store. He would like to get back to playing the guitar and tuning seems to be a good place to start. All of the stores had a drawing sign up. Leroy’s picture was taken as he was filling out the form. It would be nice now if he would win some of that money that was possible. We are happy to have seen what is available. Also some of the buildings are quite old and therefore the structures are interesting.
After church the church council and property committee went through the house to see what needed attention and care. As with many places there is often more projects than money for those projects. It sounds though that some will be addressed, such as the windows in the basement that are single pane glass and therefore leaking a lot of heat. All in all, the house has been well taken care of. I wonder if there will be many pastors who still want to live in a parsonage. That gets to be a problem for some.
Leroy and I rode to the grocery store this afternoon. I wanted to make granola and needed some items, Leroy just wanted to get out in the sun and have a place to ride. It was nice in spite of a fairly strong wind. Leroy does not have bike bags so I have to take most of the things on my bike. He did have five pounds of flour (because it was on sale), a pound of soy flour, and a pound of wheat germ on his back. That seemed like plenty to me because as usual we got more than was on the list.
Paula
Sunday afternoon the few remaining stores downtown had an open house. It was interesting to see what was there. Many of them had decorative type items that are not really my thing. Moving makes all of that seem much less attractive and I was never very into it anyway. There was also a health food store that I will probably patronize. Leroy got a guitar tuner from the music store. He would like to get back to playing the guitar and tuning seems to be a good place to start. All of the stores had a drawing sign up. Leroy’s picture was taken as he was filling out the form. It would be nice now if he would win some of that money that was possible. We are happy to have seen what is available. Also some of the buildings are quite old and therefore the structures are interesting.
After church the church council and property committee went through the house to see what needed attention and care. As with many places there is often more projects than money for those projects. It sounds though that some will be addressed, such as the windows in the basement that are single pane glass and therefore leaking a lot of heat. All in all, the house has been well taken care of. I wonder if there will be many pastors who still want to live in a parsonage. That gets to be a problem for some.
Leroy and I rode to the grocery store this afternoon. I wanted to make granola and needed some items, Leroy just wanted to get out in the sun and have a place to ride. It was nice in spite of a fairly strong wind. Leroy does not have bike bags so I have to take most of the things on my bike. He did have five pounds of flour (because it was on sale), a pound of soy flour, and a pound of wheat germ on his back. That seemed like plenty to me because as usual we got more than was on the list.
Paula
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Wanted
Hello,
The phone rings and I hear, “We want you to know that our cable service is the best and it would so fit your needs.” Again I heard, “this is for State Representative… and your vote would be appreciated.” Then there is the call for my credit card rating. Then there is someone who calls with a heavily accented voice and would like me to know that I can get money that is owed to me, would I like the money? My reply is, “No thank you,” and I calmly hang up. I could be penniless in short order.
Then there are ads in the paper or mail. Every day brings an ad with the lowest sale prices of the season, none lower. I think the bottom is gone. I can not complain that I am not wanted in my new community. All want my money one way or another.
Last night, Leroy had his first confirmation lock-in at the church. It was a little different experience for him since others took care of most of the details. Some had been planned before he got here. He is used to doing a good share of it himself. “How did that go for you,” I wondered.
“It was ok,” he replied, “I would have run it a little bit tighter, but that is not a problem.”
He is now getting used to the idea that someone else will do it, but that has been an unanticipated adjustment.
I sent him along with some grapes and apples and an admonition not to eat much junk.
He reported that all of the grapes and apples were eaten and maybe even appreciated. I could have sent more. Sometimes I hear people complaining about the junk that kids eat, but it is hard if good things are not provided. Seems to me that choices are often limited by what is available.
Paula
The phone rings and I hear, “We want you to know that our cable service is the best and it would so fit your needs.” Again I heard, “this is for State Representative… and your vote would be appreciated.” Then there is the call for my credit card rating. Then there is someone who calls with a heavily accented voice and would like me to know that I can get money that is owed to me, would I like the money? My reply is, “No thank you,” and I calmly hang up. I could be penniless in short order.
Then there are ads in the paper or mail. Every day brings an ad with the lowest sale prices of the season, none lower. I think the bottom is gone. I can not complain that I am not wanted in my new community. All want my money one way or another.
Last night, Leroy had his first confirmation lock-in at the church. It was a little different experience for him since others took care of most of the details. Some had been planned before he got here. He is used to doing a good share of it himself. “How did that go for you,” I wondered.
“It was ok,” he replied, “I would have run it a little bit tighter, but that is not a problem.”
He is now getting used to the idea that someone else will do it, but that has been an unanticipated adjustment.
I sent him along with some grapes and apples and an admonition not to eat much junk.
He reported that all of the grapes and apples were eaten and maybe even appreciated. I could have sent more. Sometimes I hear people complaining about the junk that kids eat, but it is hard if good things are not provided. Seems to me that choices are often limited by what is available.
Paula
Friday, November 5, 2010
Parking in the Garage
Hello,
The saying, “pride goes before the fall” seems to apply to me more and more. I would have said that between Leroy and I, I was the better at lining the car up in a parking space. We now have a two car garage for only the third time that we have experienced in all these moves we have made in our lives. This one is just a little trickier to get into because you have to turn a corner just as you pull in. we both used to do a great job when it was a straight shot. Neither car nor the garage has been damaged, yet. We are not close to that, but getting into or out of the car that is on the right side can be a problem. I said I would take that side because Leroy tends to drive more to the left on the road and I favor the right. No politics here just how we see down the road. If the other car is in the garage I do a fairly good job of getting in the right place without taking off the side mirror on the garage door, however it is another matter when the garage is empty of cars. For some reason then I want to take the middle ground. More than once I have had to back out get straight with the world and pull in again. More new skills to learn! Will it never stop?
All this time Leroy has been driving in the garage without so much as an inch of trouble. Where did that spatially challenged guy go? We are grateful for a garage to park cars in.
Yesterday, because of frost warnings, I went out and picked the last of the mint leaves to dry for tea. The bread was out of the oven. There had been a bit of time with the oven door open so it seemed cool to me. Well I can now tell you from personal experience that burned mint leaves do not make the best tea. Another lesson learned, surely my brain is expanding at a great rate.
Paula
The saying, “pride goes before the fall” seems to apply to me more and more. I would have said that between Leroy and I, I was the better at lining the car up in a parking space. We now have a two car garage for only the third time that we have experienced in all these moves we have made in our lives. This one is just a little trickier to get into because you have to turn a corner just as you pull in. we both used to do a great job when it was a straight shot. Neither car nor the garage has been damaged, yet. We are not close to that, but getting into or out of the car that is on the right side can be a problem. I said I would take that side because Leroy tends to drive more to the left on the road and I favor the right. No politics here just how we see down the road. If the other car is in the garage I do a fairly good job of getting in the right place without taking off the side mirror on the garage door, however it is another matter when the garage is empty of cars. For some reason then I want to take the middle ground. More than once I have had to back out get straight with the world and pull in again. More new skills to learn! Will it never stop?
All this time Leroy has been driving in the garage without so much as an inch of trouble. Where did that spatially challenged guy go? We are grateful for a garage to park cars in.
Yesterday, because of frost warnings, I went out and picked the last of the mint leaves to dry for tea. The bread was out of the oven. There had been a bit of time with the oven door open so it seemed cool to me. Well I can now tell you from personal experience that burned mint leaves do not make the best tea. Another lesson learned, surely my brain is expanding at a great rate.
Paula
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Outside Business
Hello,
Yesterday was the first day in this new place that I was occupied outside of the house for all segments of the day. In the morning I went and worked at the church library until it became too much of an emotional chore for all of us. It is hard when you do not really know what you are doing, but you do it anyway. This library has been neglected for some time, consequently there are many books around that are old and tired. Two others were working and leading this effort. Before this we had sorted many of the books into loose subject areas. Just as we got there yesterday I suggested that perhaps we should get rid of some reader’s digest collections from the 60’s and 70’s. Much to my surprise there was absolutely no argument with that plan. From them we moved on to other areas and ended up filling four or five boxes of discards. A part of me thinks almost all should go, but I am sure that will not happen. I can not imagine many of these books being checked out by anyone. Some of the books are of such a theological nature that mostly readers are people who are in seminary. Before we got done they said that there are two people in the congregation who want to donate some books to the space. Oh dear, how old do you suppose those books are?
In the afternoon I headed off to the circle meeting. All participants at this circle meeting are in the present moment, but they did not have a lesson because of some type of mix up. I was hoping for some good discussion, but it did not happen this time. Both of the circles here have Christmas luncheons rather than a lesson in December and they do not meet in January. Not much for me there for a while. Maybe I should start a book discussion group?
In the evening I went off to another church to help with a joint children’s meal. It was fun to see how that works. They provide a light meal, a story, music and craft activity for the children. In January Leroy and I will be doing the music session. After that I was too tired to think of writing something. Just reading the paper seemed like a fun activity.
Today Leroy had his first funeral here. He met the funeral director and an assistant. It seems that he likes to get acquainted with funeral home people. It is nice if they have a good working relationship.
Paula
Yesterday was the first day in this new place that I was occupied outside of the house for all segments of the day. In the morning I went and worked at the church library until it became too much of an emotional chore for all of us. It is hard when you do not really know what you are doing, but you do it anyway. This library has been neglected for some time, consequently there are many books around that are old and tired. Two others were working and leading this effort. Before this we had sorted many of the books into loose subject areas. Just as we got there yesterday I suggested that perhaps we should get rid of some reader’s digest collections from the 60’s and 70’s. Much to my surprise there was absolutely no argument with that plan. From them we moved on to other areas and ended up filling four or five boxes of discards. A part of me thinks almost all should go, but I am sure that will not happen. I can not imagine many of these books being checked out by anyone. Some of the books are of such a theological nature that mostly readers are people who are in seminary. Before we got done they said that there are two people in the congregation who want to donate some books to the space. Oh dear, how old do you suppose those books are?
In the afternoon I headed off to the circle meeting. All participants at this circle meeting are in the present moment, but they did not have a lesson because of some type of mix up. I was hoping for some good discussion, but it did not happen this time. Both of the circles here have Christmas luncheons rather than a lesson in December and they do not meet in January. Not much for me there for a while. Maybe I should start a book discussion group?
In the evening I went off to another church to help with a joint children’s meal. It was fun to see how that works. They provide a light meal, a story, music and craft activity for the children. In January Leroy and I will be doing the music session. After that I was too tired to think of writing something. Just reading the paper seemed like a fun activity.
Today Leroy had his first funeral here. He met the funeral director and an assistant. It seems that he likes to get acquainted with funeral home people. It is nice if they have a good working relationship.
Paula
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Voting
Hello,
Around nine in the morning seemed like a good time to vote because then all of the workers would be out of there. So on my way out of the bedroom I decided to put the duvet on the comforter. Certainly it is easier to do this job with help, but surely I could manage. When done I was congratulating myself on a job well done. Oops, it is inside out. Off it comes for another try. Now when I was done I checked it over to be sure. Yes it was right side out, but I buttoned it incorrectly. After that was all finished and armed with a picture ID as well as a billing with my name and address on it, I headed across the drive to vote at the church. This is the closest we have ever lived to the polls. Not many excuses will work for missing it.
“I am doing same day registration,” I told the first woman I came to. She sent me on to the person at the computer after she questioned someone about the procedure and had me fill out a paper. The woman operating the computer informed me that her compute was not working correctly and I should proceed to the man next to her. He started to input my info when his computer froze. My information was too hot to handle? He had to call someone to learn the steps that were required to get past this glitch. There were two open voting booths when I first came into the room. Now all booths were full and some people had even come and gone. Others, who did care about privacy, were using tables. In not too much more time he had my information printed off, but said, “You should check it for accuracy.”
“Oh no this is the wrong address,” I said.
The bill that I had brought had the church’s address on it and not ours. So I explained the situation. He was not sure what would happen if he changed the address. In the end we just let it go so for voting purposes I live at the church. Not a church mouse, but church Paula lives there.
But I did vote in spite of the part of me that wonders if it matters. Leroy does not have to go through all this since he changed his driver’s license and therefore has his voter registration up to date.
Parishioners sometimes forget that a parsonage is really theirs. Sunday an older woman asked me, “Are you living in Pastor’s house?”
I simply answered, “Yes.”
Paula
Around nine in the morning seemed like a good time to vote because then all of the workers would be out of there. So on my way out of the bedroom I decided to put the duvet on the comforter. Certainly it is easier to do this job with help, but surely I could manage. When done I was congratulating myself on a job well done. Oops, it is inside out. Off it comes for another try. Now when I was done I checked it over to be sure. Yes it was right side out, but I buttoned it incorrectly. After that was all finished and armed with a picture ID as well as a billing with my name and address on it, I headed across the drive to vote at the church. This is the closest we have ever lived to the polls. Not many excuses will work for missing it.
“I am doing same day registration,” I told the first woman I came to. She sent me on to the person at the computer after she questioned someone about the procedure and had me fill out a paper. The woman operating the computer informed me that her compute was not working correctly and I should proceed to the man next to her. He started to input my info when his computer froze. My information was too hot to handle? He had to call someone to learn the steps that were required to get past this glitch. There were two open voting booths when I first came into the room. Now all booths were full and some people had even come and gone. Others, who did care about privacy, were using tables. In not too much more time he had my information printed off, but said, “You should check it for accuracy.”
“Oh no this is the wrong address,” I said.
The bill that I had brought had the church’s address on it and not ours. So I explained the situation. He was not sure what would happen if he changed the address. In the end we just let it go so for voting purposes I live at the church. Not a church mouse, but church Paula lives there.
But I did vote in spite of the part of me that wonders if it matters. Leroy does not have to go through all this since he changed his driver’s license and therefore has his voter registration up to date.
Parishioners sometimes forget that a parsonage is really theirs. Sunday an older woman asked me, “Are you living in Pastor’s house?”
I simply answered, “Yes.”
Paula
Monday, November 1, 2010
All Saints Eve
Hello,
Because we are living close to their grave site, I thought we should do the Slovak thing and neaten and decorate the grave of Leroy’s parents. Saturday early evening seemed like the right time to me, but Leroy wanted to go earlier to be sure that we could see and find the stone. They are in a cemetery where all of the stones are flat and level with the ground. Leroy’s sister could give general directions.
Then it was a question of what to put on the stone. I thought we ought to do the candle and mum thing just as we has seen in Slovakia. When we were out and about for another reason we stopped at one store where I had still seen mums. They did indeed still have some. They were not choice, but tired and marked down to 2 for a dollar. We found six that still looked good enough. After we got them home, Leroy said, “What are you thinking to do just leave them out there for a few days and then plant them?”
“Yes,” I said, “and I thought we would light the candle just as we were there and then bring it home.”
In the meantime Leroy talked to someone who said the weather report stated Saturday was the last nice day for a while. So Leroy thought we should just go ahead and plant the flowers in the ground by the house here when it was still nice to do that. We scurried around and planted those six mums without taking them to the cemetery.
We got to the cemetery so early that we were able to find the grave, however Leroy was right it would have been next to impossible to find in the dark. We cleaned off the stone and trimmed the grass around it, but because it was still light there was no candle lighting. Not quite what I had in mind, but we did at least give it some care. Certainly it was not up to the Slovak standard.
Paula
Because we are living close to their grave site, I thought we should do the Slovak thing and neaten and decorate the grave of Leroy’s parents. Saturday early evening seemed like the right time to me, but Leroy wanted to go earlier to be sure that we could see and find the stone. They are in a cemetery where all of the stones are flat and level with the ground. Leroy’s sister could give general directions.
Then it was a question of what to put on the stone. I thought we ought to do the candle and mum thing just as we has seen in Slovakia. When we were out and about for another reason we stopped at one store where I had still seen mums. They did indeed still have some. They were not choice, but tired and marked down to 2 for a dollar. We found six that still looked good enough. After we got them home, Leroy said, “What are you thinking to do just leave them out there for a few days and then plant them?”
“Yes,” I said, “and I thought we would light the candle just as we were there and then bring it home.”
In the meantime Leroy talked to someone who said the weather report stated Saturday was the last nice day for a while. So Leroy thought we should just go ahead and plant the flowers in the ground by the house here when it was still nice to do that. We scurried around and planted those six mums without taking them to the cemetery.
We got to the cemetery so early that we were able to find the grave, however Leroy was right it would have been next to impossible to find in the dark. We cleaned off the stone and trimmed the grass around it, but because it was still light there was no candle lighting. Not quite what I had in mind, but we did at least give it some care. Certainly it was not up to the Slovak standard.
Paula
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)