Library party

Hello,

Leroy and I are quiet at home. I am satisfied and contented with that. I worked today from 8:00am to 1:00pm. The yoga group was fairly small, but the rest of the day was large with people. It was just a bit of steady work in the morning while my co-worker got ready for the “Noon Year’s Eve Party. I learned that over 80 people had signed up. There was a definite push in the air to get everything ready for so many people.

At noon a few people came. It was manageable that they keep coming in rather small groups. Some of the signees did not come, but there were still 72 people who participated. I really had nothing to do with the party; however I was busy at the desk, checking in books, checking out books, getting computer passes, and generally answering any questions that anyone had.

I managed to finish my own lunch by 1:30pm. That meant I left my apple for when I work on Saturday. I was not done working until after 2:00. At which time the doors were locked. I started cleaning up and watering plants. It was at least 2:30 by the time I left. In a small town the library becomes the hub of the community. The importance is not to be ignored.

For some reason I had trouble remembering which month I was taking about when telling due dates. The year seemed to come with much more ease. Perhaps it was because I had worked hard to think about 2016 coming tomorrow when the library will be closed. Consequently we had a number of people who dashed in to get books or movies so they would have some when we are not open.

How nice to be needed.

Paula

More Shoveling, chopping

Hello,

When the sun came out a little I went out in the afternoon to tackle some of the ice that was in front of the garage and on the sidewalk. I made a bit of progress by the garage, but only on my side I habitually reverse out of. Leroy did not seem so concerned about it so it just ignored that other side. The sidewalk had several places that were chunks of ice with no pavement visible below. With the ice chopper I was able to break most of those up and remove them. I worked for an hour, but could not manage any more. Leroy tells me that an hour is quite a long time for that hard work of banging on the cement. I was pleased to see pavement for clear walking in at least a path for the entire sidewalk.

If I were home again tomorrow, I might tackle the space in front of the other garage door. I should be home by 2:00 so I suppose there is no excuse. I get finished with work at 1:00, but I need to water plants after that. I would also like to get a haircut. The hair needs it right now, but there may not be time until next week to tend to that.

I am reading, My Name is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira. It captured my attention, but it has a lot of words. I need to finish it by Sunday when we meet for bookclub. As usual I leave it until close to the end so I can remember what I read. I am pleased to read about the US Civil War because my HS history teacher was so interested in it and impressed many of the facts on my mind. Enthusiasm in teachers goes a long way in leading students to learning. Generally I have paid little attention to history.

My brother-in-law is coming to visit on Friday. This week is going fast with company, storm, and more company. Our lives are rather quiet much of the time. This is good.

Paula

Shoveling Snow

Hello,

Leroy went out early this morning to clear the snow in front of our garage. It is not a long distance, but he declared it much work as the snow had piled up against the door creating a little drift that packed together. “It was like shoveling rocks,” he declared when he came in breathless, but warm from exertion.

He also did a path to the compost bin as we go there almost every day. I went out later and carved a path to the front of the house. It was not drifted, but still rather heavy and difficult to get up as it was stuck to the sidewalk in many places. My dad’s scoop shovel worked the best. When I had gotten to the front a guy with a small snow blower offered to clear the front for $10. I asked my landlord if he would like to do that. He agreed when I told him, “It is a heavy difficult snow.”

Usually I like to do it, but not this time. I figured that I had already had my aerobic workout. My heart should be in good shape. Maybe the next storm I will be more comfortable with.

Miriam gifted me with a carry on suitcase. Today I brought out my one legged wonder and replaced it with the new. After some searching, I found the luggage tag that I had removed and put in a safe place, where? Now I am ready for that trip to any destination. I still have a hard time believing that I have been on a plane so often and mostly think nothing of it. I was in my forties before I ever flew on a commercial plane. Once in high school I did go up in a plane that seated four and flew over the farm. I suppose that was more like real flying. It was a treat to see the farm from the air. Now I wonder how we could get there faster as most of the time in the air there is not such an interesting view.

Paula

Christmas Visit

Hello,

We had a nice time hosting Miriam’s family. They arrived a bit later than expected because they had to circle the lake in Chicago before the plane could land. Then the rental car had a warning ding for a seat belt that supposedly was not fastened when all were secure. Andy declared he was not going to travel in a car for hours with a ding. A new car was procured and off they drove into tornado warnings when they got to Iowa. That meant taking shelter in a gas station bathroom. In spite of that Miriam came in time to join us for choir practice. She then sang with the choir on Christmas Eve.

We made ravioli, but not as successfully as we had in DC. We had this in the crock pot too long and it was a bit over done on the bottom, still edible, but not superb.

The day after Christmas we met my brother and his wife about half way between our homes. It was good to see him again. I am not sure why, but I seem to have gotten the only thinning hair gene in the family. Why do you suppose that is? Did I catch it from Leroy?

Miriam and family left yesterday to spend some time with Andy’s family and to visit with Brian and family. They had planned to leave today. The latest technology allowed them to see the prediction of more snow/rain than they wanted to drive in. I am happy that I did not have to worry about them. This morning it was most uninviting for travel with snow, sleet, and more snow. I have not gone out much, but I should because I like seeing the soft look of it. The wind is not as friendly as it blows snow off the roof in a funnel shape. I have never seen anything quite like it. Leroy shoveled some, but said it was so heavy that he got tired very quickly.

Leroy is working at the church tomorrow consequently he can walk. I do not go to work until afternoon so hopefully all will be clear or at least passable by that time.

Paula

Miriam's Family is Coming

Hello,

I have gone to the grocery store twice today. Do you think that is enough? I do! The rest of the world eats differently so I have to make a lot of guesses as to what would be appreciated. I am now at the point of saying if it is not right, too bad. Eat it anyway!

The “green thing” has been gathered from our landlords as have deck chair cushions. That should make for some soft sleeping places. We have borrowed and borrowed this green thing for all grandchildren visits. I think it was a fold up type of chair at one time in its life. It is quite thick so is comfortable for them to sleep on.

I also retrieved sheets and blankets. I had given away a blanket this summer when our neighbor was sleeping in the car. I was happy to learn that I still had two left, one for each girl. I offered the sleeping bags, but they preferred blankets. Aren’t mobile phones wonderful so we can make plans while they are driving in the middle of Illinois?

Now I have to write down the menus that are floating around in my mind. I know I should have made menus, a shopping list, and then shopped.  I am doing it backwards. Hoping that will work too.

Oh yes, I should clean the bathroom. Do you think there could be another task or two that I have forgotten? I am trying hard to forget so I do not work too hard.

Tomorrow Miriam’s family is visiting a friend while I am at work. Leroy will be working all day so I am not concerned about him and any plans. Leroy, before he knew anyone would be here for Christmas, signed up to work a lot as other people wanted time off.

If I do not write again until after Christmas, I must wish you all the blessings that Christmas and contemplation can bring into your life.

Paula

Taking Care of things

Hello,

Leroy laid quite low on Saturday, reading, sleeping, watching TV and talking about being out and about. Sunday morning he got dressed, ate breakfast, and said, “I do not think I can walk to church. I am so tired now.”

I convinced him to stay home, not that it took much effort. The choir was singing a special selection, but he decided they could do it without his help,

He was still being quiet when I got home.  Later in the afternoon we did make a short trip in the car. He was ok with that but glad to come home and take a nap.

Today, Monday, he was talking about whether he should ride the bike to work or drive. When I glanced out the window and raindrops were visible in the puddle by the street light, it was decided that driving was the proper choice.

I am proud of myself for calling, you know me and phone calls, the Dr. Office about a co pay that I was charged. I did find the receipt that shows I paid it when the visit was made. Now I have written down this conversation and the date. I even over paid so they will send me a refund.

In searching through a drawer looking for the stapler, I found another key for the car we sold. There were plenty of keys to pass along so I think this one can be safely disposed of in one way or another. Is such a thing recyclable? When we got the new car the dealer commented that sometimes people lose a key. Because the new type of key is so expensive to replace, they have sold used cars with only one key available. Back in the good old days they were just a trip to the hardware store and a dollar to replace. It was nice to have a spare key in case I locked the key in the car. Luckily I have seldom done that. In the two times it happened, Leroy came and rescued me.

Paula

Leroy is better

Hello,

Leroy had a peaceful night and so did I. It was blissful. We think it must have been something he ate. There was some food sitting out at the museum. Because his lunch was packed in our usual almost pristine conditions it should not have been the problem. He tells me that he is still a little tired.

I am hoping he will be able to help me a small amount with the Christmas cards. My goal is to finish them this weekend. I have some of the envelope addressed. That makes it feel a little less daunting. True confession, I write more personal notes on the first letters and run out of vive as I go along. After mid morning snack I will tackle it in reality instead of just in my mind. That should help.

I have done a load of laundry this morning so there is nothing left that Leroy got dirty. Aren’t we lucky that we have a washing machine in our apartment, or that there is a washing machine at all in our culture. I would not be anxious to beat them on the rocks. Also I remember my mother heating wash water before we got the water heater. We also had a wringer washer that was out on the porch. There was a dramatic difference between the cold air and the hot water. Mom used an old broom handle to snag the items in the first load because the water was too hot for comfort. It was a more earth friendly way to wash as that water was used for many loads with dish towels being in the first load and my dad’s overalls being in the last when the water had turned a different color.

I am happy to have a water saving machine even though it does not meet the standard of my childhood.

Paula

My List

Hello,

It only works to make a list, if after you cannot remember what you needed, you look at the list. A part of me thought I was remembering it all, but when I got home I found that I had not gotten three things. I suppose I will have to make another trip. One good thing the stores are only about two miles away, but I still have a hard time giving myself permission to make unnecessary jaunts. They would have been unnecessary if I had gotten it all in the first place.

I am still looking for a love seat. I thought I found one at a second hand store. Leroy, when I called, said he would go with me tonight to look at it and measure it so see if it would fit in the stairwell. I have also thought some more about a futon because we could take it upstairs in pieces and put it together up here. I am not so attracted to the idea of a futon, but it just might be the thing for this space. Someone could even sleep on it and that is a plus. It would be comfortable wouldn’t it? Futons do not have a good reputation in my mind. Hopefully they have been improved.

Leroy had not been home more than five minutes before he talked about not feeling good. Probably half an hour later we knew we would be going nowhere as his stomach was rejecting everything that was in it. He has expelled the contents three or four times now. We are both hoping that it will be empty soon.

Tomorrow he will once again be home. Then I will have no excuses for not getting the Christmas letters sent as there will be few outside trips. I have this urge to say on all of the cards that I have some nice Christmas paper, but we could not figure out how to make the margins work. However, I will probably say no such thing, even though I wonder, “What will people think?” about this letter on plain paper with no card. Maybe I should go get some cards? But it seems too late now.

Paula

Microwave purchased

Hello,

The new microwave is purchased and upstairs. We live upstairs so that is good. The old is still being used for the moment. I thought when Leroy is available later tonight we will take it out of the box and figure out what to do with the old. Leroy called me at work yesterday to tell me that he, at the end of his calling on someone, was close to a store. He checked and their price was lower than online or any price we have seen. The only catch was that the brand and model we want was on a truck to be delivered to them. They would put our name on it, if it indeed came. I was to call before I went to get it in case it had not come. I did run a couple errands in the morning. Since I had no clue when the truck would come and I hate to make phone calls, I did not call until late in the morning. The machine was indeed there, but I would need to pick it up in 24 hours because we had not paid for it. I did go after a lunch in the loft concert at church. Course I walked to church and back. I can say that it was blustery. The concert was nice, but I found myself struggling to pay attention to the music at all moments even though it was beautiful. After I came home, in spite of not eating, I went to pick it up because I needed to be home to finish making bread. All it had on it was “customer Paula”. I claimed it, brought it home, gathered strength and carried it up stairs.

I also made granola this morning as well as a fruit salad for the party we are going to. This gathering is of the people who work at the museum. I have to gather a bit of strength to attend that as it seems to me it is like a party where I know only a few people.

After we leave there, we will go to church to choir practice as it is not to be missed. We are singing a rather difficult, extensive, selection this Sunday. Leroy tells me that he has learned a lot. I have to admit that I do not know how he manages without having had some musical training which would help him read the notes. It is surely a good challenge for his brain.

Paula

Grumpy Times

Hello,

If there is one thing I want it is for my cohort to be more competent than I am. Leroy and I are trying to get our Christmas letter done. He was to print it off at work. I gave him rather explicit instructions about the Christmas paper we had so he would not do it as he had last year. Last year’s fiasco did not happen, but he called a little bit ago to tell me that he was having trouble with the margins. I finally said rather forcefully, “Just do it on plain paper. It is ok.”

Not so nice to him.

Then I moved on to a problem with one store credit card. I got a bill from them that I did not know about, but thinking that Leroy might have gotten me something, I paid the bill. I did think it was a bit unusual that it was an even amount which almost never happens in the shopping world. When I talked to Leroy he said, “I did not buy something for you there. It might be that gift card I got for buying the tablet there, and somehow they charged us for it instead of it being a gift.”

Assuming that probably was the case; I went online to find a phone number or a live chat possibility. The phone call resulted in just a round robin of none people response. The only way I could contact them, that I could find, was to email them. Within 24 hours they will respond, but I must go find the answer on my account with them. I do not like that possibility, but submitted my query anyway. Grumble, grumble in my head!

Some of my plants will have to move somewhere when the kids come. There is too much in this place. I might even consider getting rid of some of them. My large Christmas cactus is a room hog, but I cannot get rid of it yet. I just noticed that a walnut tree is starting to grow in the pot. Do you think a squirrel buried it in there?  At least I am comfortable pulling that out. No trees growing in this house. Not easy to pull this four inch plant, but I broke it off.

You all have a good day now. I will have a better one, I can feel it coming.

Paula

Christmas is coming

Hello,

Even though I do not feel so involved in many things, my days are full. We had a Holiday open house for the city workers, library board, and friends of the library. It was great to visit with people.

Last night a dear friend asked if we would want to ticket take for a vocal concert. It was great to attend and the job did not detract at all from the whole experience. Later this week, Leroy’s work will have a party. Then this week at church, there is lunch in the loft. I will try to attend this week. The organist and his equally talented wife will give a concert. People tell me it is very good. I do not work on Wednesday so I have no excuse but that I have forgotten about it in the past.

Leroy and I are composing a more traditional Christmas letter with each of us contributing to that. We might be done but editing might tell a different story. I have addressed about a third of the envelopes. When Leroy comes home from the nursing home service we intend to put up the Christmas decorations.

Our microwave seems to heat less and less. We looked at some in the stores yesterday. Leroy is sure we should get it before the “kids” come for Christmas. Now it takes about twice the usual time. Is such a thing fixable? I dislike our throw-away culture.

I am also thinking that I would like a loveseat up here, but do not really have time to look for one that would fit up the stairs. We have talked about getting a futon. At least they seem to be made to go into smaller spaces. As it is, we only have four chairs to sit on in the living room. Leroy even wonders about an inflatable couch we have seen somewhere. I am not so attached to that idea. We will manage.

Paula

Off Center Life

Hello,

This morning Leroy and I went shopping. I can tell that guy does not get in stores often, especially a home store type. He went to look at microwaves, but spent quite a lot of time looking at other things. Leroy, after I urged, ended up buying a treat for himself. I felt like saying that it was a present from me, but he likes surprises. What that Christmas gift surprise will be is a total mystery to me too.

We then moved on to another store where he looked at belts, but this guy wants an all leather belt and some were not, so he was a bit disgusted.

Leroy has spent two times visiting with the makers of our TV and his tablet. The first told him he needed a different tablet and the second told him that he needs a different TV. He wants these two items to talk to each other. Now he has started to look for alternative solutions. He did hear a suggestion in one store, but it cost more than he would like, it is much cheaper than buying a new TV or tablet. In addition there was a sale offer that if he were to buy two of these devises he would save about a fourth of the cost per devise. Do we know anyone who would also like one? Someone who wants another devise to interact with their TV?

I like to do a transfer of funds to pay the rent, for some reason I did not get that done before December started. Now I have paid double and cancelled a third transaction. Am I losing it?

Yesterday when brushing my teeth, the interdental brush broke off so it was stuck between two rear teeth. I could not grab it with my fingernails. I tried pushing it with another brush so I could get it on the other side. I was home alone wondering if I should go to the dentist when I got the brilliant idea to use a tweezers. I have to confess I did not even stop to clean them, but reached in and grabbed the tip. What a relief to get that out of there. It did not look bad, but it was a bit uncomfortable. My teeth are good now.

Paula

Life as Usual

Hello,

I told Leroy last night I wanted to change the desks back to their original spots. He said, “We could do it tomorrow morning or I would have time on Saturday.”

This morning, we hopped out of bed again, got things off the desk, and quickly moved them. I told Leroy I could handle putting back the rest of the things. I am happier now. I even managed to sort through some papers and get rid of two. Now that is progress.

I forgot to buy peanuts when shopping last time. That is my favorite snack. Leroy also seems to like them. I have felt a bit of sadness each time I wanted some and remembered that there were none in the house. I did have a few to take to work and I guarded them. Last night at work I ate the last of them. Luckily Leroy thought of them as he was traveling around close to a store. He brought some home. I just made my mixture of peanuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. It was so satisfying to munch on some of them. I now know that if I were addicted to some substance that was harmful to me or others, I would have a terrible time stopping. The lack of peanuts in the house became bigger and bigger in my mind as the week progressed. Leroy too mentioned them several times.

We got Miriam’s ten year old microwave last summer. For some reason that machine takes a long time to cook or heat anything. After pushing every button on the face of it, we are once again talking about the search process and what do we want in a new one. But such is life something is always wearing out. Just so it is not Leroy or I we can replace it with comparative ease.

Paula

Today is my sister’s birthday. I find myself having a bit of a hard time when remembering that. It is also Miriam’s birthday and that still gives joy.

Life's changes

Hello,

Sunday evening I wanted to watch a DVD, but Leroy had changed many things on the Smart TV to try to get his tablet to talk to it. We could not get it to connect to the DVD player. I blamed him although I was very gracious about it and just simmered inside. When I came home from work last night I asked, “Did you fix the DVD player/TV connection?”

“It works, but I did not do a thing,” Leroy said, “but turn it on.”

Is that guy lucky or what?

I got the brilliant idea in the middle of the night to switch our desks in the computer room. I told Leroy about it this morning. Not one to let grass grow under his feet, Leroy said, “We can change them now.”

So we hopped out of bed and shifted the desks. Now we do not know where to put the printer stand and I do not like the look of the larger desk as I am coming down the hall. I think it will be changed back. At least I cleaned everything under the desks and the printer stand.

Another thing that now works is that Leroy was able to download, on his table, the app so we can take pictures of our checks instead of mailing them in. I am so happy about that. For some reason we could not get it done on the IPod and my tablet is not the proper type.

I am so pleased because I went to the garden yesterday and got enough arugula, Swiss chard, dandelion greens, and cilantro to make a fairly decent salad with some additions such as radish, mushroom, cabbage. The cabbage was a small head that was growing on the stalk in our front garden. I thought it was all lovely and amazing to be eating fresh from the garden in December in Iowa. The only downer is that the cause might be global warming.

Paula

Good Day

Hello,

We had a nice day yesterday. First we drove about an hour and a half to visit my one aunt who is still alive. She is 90 years old, still quite sharp, quite talkative, and moves right along with a walker. She might not have been able to keep up with Leroy, but she set a good pace. It sounded to me like she tries to walk more than a mile a day. I learned a little family history that I had never heard before. We took her out to lunch about which she said, “It was great to get out.” She still has a car and still drives, but I gathered her outings are limited.

Leroy and I always seem to have a little tiff in the car about directions. Does that mean we should only go places when we know where we are going? We did use the GPS, but did not agree at one point with this neutral sounding lady. It turned out that she did direct us the wrong way once.

After visiting with my aunt we went to a Christmas concert at a college in the area. I enjoyed the program and the chance to visit with another couple who had been at the seminary when we were there. Plus we got dessert from the college. I had some rice pudding. It is something I like, but never make. Now I suppose it is because Leroy does not do well with things made from milk. Or perhaps he does not like rice pudding.

We had planned to go to another concert in the evening, but we arrived home at only an hour before the concert started and we could not extricate ourselves from the house one more time.

Leroy has gotten himself a tablet as well. He wanted to explore the possibilities in that some. Now we have a laptop and two tablets. Is that getting to be too much?

I was trying to read a book for book club. At the meeting today I still had 100 pages to go, but I only started after we got back from DC. I thought the book was good, In the Time of Butterflies by Julia Alvarez. I certainly learned a bit of history of the Dominican Republic that I had no clue about.

Paula

Phone Calls

Hello,

For a non phone user I have spent much of my day on the phone. I spoke with two of our friends from seminary days. We will see both of these couples at different events in the next day or a month from now. Amazing when you know that we have not seen much of them in years. Both of them have retired, so perhaps retirement is an open door to spend more time with people that you enjoy being with.

I also talked with my one living aunt. She only lives an hour and a half away. Why we have not visited, I am not sure. Anyway we will be her area tomorrow so we will visit. Before I pick up the phone to make a call I always wonder, “Will I have anything to say?”

It did not matter with my 90 year old aunt, she started talking right away and I could hardly get a word in to tell her that we wanted to spend a little time with her. She sounded quite pleased. I would guess that I have not seen her in 25 years or more. Would you surmise that I am not so good at keeping family connections?

If I should call you do not say to yourself, “She almost never calls.” Instead think, “I am amazed and pleased that she is calling me.”

If I were the queen you could be quite moved that you are not forgotten. Most of you are remembered, but I just cannot make myself pick up that phone. I suppose you could say that my cost per call is quite high because I use it so seldom.

I am grateful to have two phones so I can keep up with the rare call at home or on the road. Then I can use Skype for people farther afield. It is wonderful to talk with my friend in Slovakia from time

to time. Usually it happens because she makes the effort to connect. I am happy that she does this.

So if you feel like calling me do not fight the urge. I am happy to pick up the phone; I just do not initiate the connection very often.

Paula

More About DC

Hello,

One good thing about being in Washington DC is that we do a lot of walking. We walked the girls to and from school two days. Twice those trips included a loop past the library. The park, which is fairly close to their home, also meant a nice walk with a run around the track. The track surface is some softer type material. I was impressed how little that bothered my knees. Here we have two tracks in the neighborhood, but both are fenced in so we cannot use them. I am disappointed by that as I do not like running on cement. We walked to a cemetery that is probably about a mile from their house. There were many old graves there. Not sure we found the oldest, but some were from the early 1800’s.

We also spent one afternoon at an art gallery that had portraits in it. It was quite interesting to see the presidents of the US and to read some facts about them. I learned quite a lot that I had not heard before. Do I remember it? Do not quiz me on it.

We also went to Great Falls, VA where we did a moderate amount of walking. It is interesting to me that we had to wait in a long line of cars in order to get into the park to see the falls. Several million people visit this park each year. Even though it was a gray overcast day we were surrounded by people much of the time.We were privileged to see two kayaks doing maneuvers in the water below the falls. Apparently it is quite popular for them to come here to practice before meets. It looked quite scary to me. Some who have tried to go over the falls have drowned.

We also did some food prep while we were there. We made granola as well as ravioli. That was nice to make the ravioli as I rarely make that and almost never for just the two of us as it is quite a large recipe. It was also fun to have help from so many people. Sarah has an exchange student with them this year. He helped cut it. Some of it was put in the freezer for a later day.

Here are the children. This exchange student is 15. He was good at the cutting. I thought this was a typical picture of kids today. That is his phone that Lexi is looking at.

The Christmas cactus looked like this when we came home. It is 44 years old. We started with a little slip the first Christmas we were married.

Here is also a picture of us at Great Falls, VA.

Paula

Traveling And Back

Hello,

One sad thing about traveling east, my carryon bag lost a leg. It did not have those 360 degree wheels so it was propped on two wheels and two legs when stopped. It only fell over two times before I realized what had happened. It also has a seam that had been sewed so I suppose it is time to retire it, but that means I must find something to replace it. Will I live long enough to get the full value out of an expensive bag or should I just go for cheap?

On the return flight we took the earliest metro train easily arriving a bit more than an hour ahead of time. This trip we had to do the full shoes, coat, belt off retinue which included the hand check. Something is put on your hands and they scan that. Leroy’s hands set off the alarm. Once again they went through his bag, more thoroughly than had been done on the first trip. I waited patiently off to the side. They asked him to step to the side and out of my sight. That wait was at least ten minutes, long enough that I was wondering if we got close to flight time, should I just get on the plane so we did not have to buy two new tickets.

“What took so long?” I wondered.

“They did a more serious pat down and the rules require two people to be present. It was a long wait for the other guy.” he told me.

“I asked what set it off.” Leroy said, “They did not know, sometimes it is perfume, soap, or other things that might be on your hands.”

In Detroit we had to wait at least an hour and a half longer than expected because they were waiting on a plane from MN. Still it was ok, but I decided not to go into work. Back home, we used the city bus in CR. It was quite full by the time we got downtown. I was pleased to see that. Yeah for public transportation!

Paula

Traveling to DC

Hello,

Our trip out of town was uneventful except that in the Cedar Rapids airport Leroy’s bag set off an alarm. Before that we had moved along speedily because we were expedited so we did not have to remove shoes or coats. They did a more serious search of Leroy’s bag and found the little bag of rocks and a plastic frog that one granddaughter had left at our house. The TSA guy just laughed about it and let it pass. We thought it most likely belonged to the youngest, but she had no memory of it, however she was happy to put the rocks outside around a tree. I am not sure what happened to the frog.

Sarah picked us up at the airport in DC. For reasons that none of us could figure out she sat in traffic, just at the airport about half a mile from us, for forty minutes. Luckily it was quite nice in DC for all of us arrivals waiting for that pick up service. No one had a clue what was causing the delay. Thankful for cell phones so we could discuss the issue and everyone knew where their important people were. We got there at 10:00pm EST. That Leroy immediately started thinking about how late it was and he needed to go to bed even though his body clock would have said it was 9:00.

We were both quite astonished at the flowers that were still blooming. Some trees had not dropped their leaves. We did not need our hats or gloves. It is definitely a warmer place. It was also much more humid than here. My hair curled quite nicely. I started thinking about the clothes I had brought and wishing I had brought some lighter things. But then a bit later it cooled off so my warmer clothes felt just right.

Paula

Packing

Hello,

I should be packing instead, I am looking at the Internet and writing a letter to you. I was making sure that I did not have any important messages. I also want to check the ten day forecast for DC one more time. Just did that and we are going to a warmer place. Leroy has been fussing about what coat to wear, but I have selected, whether it is the right one or not will be known later. I have laid out all of the things I want to take with me, but have not put them in yet, just a little concerned about, will they fit.

Leroy is working this morning and he has already packed. He is such an organized guy when it comes to traveling, picks out a few things and puts them in, done!

If I did not feel so busy, I might take a picture of the blooming Christmas cactus and send it to you. Without out the smart phone it is a longer process. I suppose some day we will have to get one of those gadgets too. Our camera has a WiFi capability, but that is to connect to a smart phone. Just now I took a picture of the cactus because I think it will be quite different when we return. Later I will post that picture. I am enjoying the cactus with the sun coming in the window. I am thankful for such a nice room to have where I can write letters to you.

Wishing all of you an uplifting and refreshing Thanksgiving.

Paula

Growing Papers

Hello,

Do your papers ever multiply when you are not looking? Mine do. Leroy is much more comfortable leaving mail, notes, and other reminders lying around. When I see them I want to tend to them as I like to have my space totally clear when I work or even sit and think.

I have put some things out so I remember to take them to DC with us. I had a bad dream the other night about someone taking my purse which holds credit cards. When I woke I was ready to make sure that we had a copy of any cards we might be taking with us so when they were stolen we would know the numbers. I have resisted the urge to do that because I was not sure where I would put that paper. We do have such copies, but I cannot remember which file they are in. Passport copies are in the passport file. Maybe Leroy remembers such a thing. It seems to me that thieves would have a difficult finding our things to steal them since I cannot find them. Perhaps thieves know me better than I know myself.

Where do we put the note that tells what we are giving to the church for 2016? Last year Leroy changed our giving selection on line and we were giving double the amount we intended. Leory thinks it will be best to wait until January and change that amount. But can we remember the amount if I throw the paper away? Probably not. Some of these papers, I will have to discuss with Leroy as they are really his. Some we have already discussed and I just now tended to them. Then there is the item that we are not sure about or the bill that is not due yet so I am waiting a bit before I pay it. There are also some papers that I need to record in our budget as spent. Maybe tomorrow morning I can eliminate two more. Hopefully no more will be added to the pile by that time.

Paula

Churchless Sunday

Hello,

Because the choir sang at church last night, Leroy and I did not go to services this morning. It seems strange, as if it is not Sunday. Sixty-six or sixty-seven years is a long time to acquire a habit. Leroy did a nursing home service this afternoon, but it is not the same, especially when I did not go.

I made gingerbread with cranberries in honor of snow on the ground. It seems like such a nice winter treat. True to form, I left out the sugar, but included the molasses. We ate it with some homemade unsweetened applesauce and a bit of plain yogurt. We both enjoyed it.

For lunch we enjoyed the fruits of the garden. From the refrigerator, I made a mixture with the last onions, Swiss chard, cilantro, parsley, and rosemary. I added a jar of home canned tomatoes, and purchased green peppers. We served it over rice. Leroy and I both pronounced it quite tasty. Too bad I never use a recipe so it cannot be duplicated.

Leroy and I watched, and liked, the movie Inside Out. It is an animated film, but had a universal message. Nice to see a film that we agree is good. Too often one of us likes something and the other does not.

My Christmas cactus blossoms are opening. They are beautiful. I am amazed at how many there are on the plant. It is more than usual when I have had it in my house. It must like this place. It certainly has the best seat in the house, raised up on the table.

Paula

More Garden Chores

Hello,

I was wrong the garden was not done, but now it is. Leroy went to work at the museum, but they closed so he came home in time for me to put him to work. He finished shoveling the front walk. We are glad that is finished because it is dry now so it should be safe for walkers.

After that he helped me clean under our bed while I washed the bedding. I have to confess that I slide my shoes under there for storage. There was a spider web on one of them. Those residents had to go. We took the bed totally apart. I had planned to do that by myself, but it would have been a big job without another lifter. Leroy thinks much in life is easier with a helper. I am wondering if we are programmed to want to work together.

After that, we tackled the four foot long Brussel sprout stem that was so thick I had used a saw to get it in the house without the roots. We washed and froze many of the leaves along with only one small bag of sprouts. They were such tiny balls. Someone else told me that theirs were also small this year.

By then it was lunch time.

After lunch we moved on to onions or shallots or whatever they were. We cleaned, chopped, and froze them for later use. The last thing was to freeze the broccoli that was left. It was a lot of stem and not much that could be easily eaten so it was not such a long task. Now the garden is done.

We will be gone in the future so I wanted to stop the mail. When the website asked for money for this job, I realized it was not the USPS website. At least I did not give them the credit card number, but I did tell them my name address and phone number as well as the days we would be gone. Hope it was a legitimate place that would also take care of your newspaper as well so they wanted money for it. Vigilance is always necessary. I did stop the mail with the real post office site.

Paula

No More Garden Chores

Hello,

Last night when I came home from work Clark asked, “Are you finished getting things from the garden for yourself?”

To my affirmative he then asked, “Do you want to go to the garden to pick the last things there? We could take them to the neighborhood meeting.”

 I have to confess that I groaned a bit inwardly because I was tired, but I said, “Yes, after I change my clothes.”

Just as we started to go we saw Leroy coming home from work. Leroy and I had talked about getting the last things out because we would not have enough time on Friday before the weather got much worse. I have this strong sense that nothing should go to waste. He was all pleased to go. He walked, while Clark and I rode there. At the garden we picked Brussel sprouts, cut the last of the Swiss chard, picked two lonely purple kale leaves, cut off three celery plants, cut parsley, chives, collards, and arugula leaves.

At the meeting people were a bit hesitant to take some greens, but we did pass out a few. We also took some of the dry soy beans that we had picked earlier. The produce that was not taken we left with the Mission of Hope which serves a daily free lunch. It was exciting to give all of that away.

This morning I zipped out to our front garden, pulled up the only brussel sprout plant, and the lone broccoli plant. There were five small cabbage heads on the stalk that we had harvested earlier. I also dug some more onions, cut off the rosemary, celery, and parsley. Tonight Leroy and I cleaned and cut up the rosemary for drying, while the celery and parsley went in the freezer and the cabbage in the refrigerator. Tomorrow I will tend to the brussel sprout and broccoli plant. We will eat the fruit and many of the leaves. The gardens seem to just give and give.

We also had talked about getting rid of our roaster. I asked last night if they would like it at the Mission of Hope. This morning, with that affirmative in mind I put it in the car and dropped it off. The cook was quite pleased to get it. When I said, “I have not used it in years and it did not check to see if it works. If it does not work, I will take it back.”

“If it does not work I would like the pan and the rack inside. But I’ll just plug it in.” he said.

Yes! It works, another thing out of our and it will be used somewhere else.

Now Leroy is thinking we should perhaps get rid of the dehydrator because we have not used it in the last two years. Not sure if I am there yet or not.

Paula

Photos

Hello,

Yesterday our set of photos (for the church directory) came in the mail. Leroy did not open it, because he knows I like to look at such things? It would have been ok if he had opened it. As it was I went through this set of thoughts and emotions.

I opened, pulling out first, the set of nine wallet size pictures. “Wow, we look good. We did not need to purchase that wrinkle smoothing, hair fixing, and blemish diminishing touch up. Our color choices were good for each and we looked good together.” I was pleased.

Next in line was the 5x7 set. It was now clear that there were some winkles to be seen, but not excessive, especially on that young guy, Leroy. My hair had some funky curls, but I suspect that is quite normal. At least my teeth were not stained and Leroy’s mouth, as usual for a picture, was closed with a hint of a smile. Our color choices were good and we looked good together.

With a little dread I looked at the 8x10. More pronounced smile wrinkles are visible on me, Leroy even has a wrinkle here or there. I also noticed a bit of my hand on his arm at the bottom of the picture. The guy had told us they would crop it so that would not show. I suppose that touch up could have taken it out. Centering probably dictated that the hand be left in. I had not planned to get such a large frame for this picture, but I might have to get the next size up so it can be matted. That somehow will make it more dramatic than I intend. Our color choices were good and we looked good together.

Because of copyright laws and ethics I cannot post a print of the picture for you. Consequently, you can imagine us just as young as the last time you saw us with happy looks on our faces. Fuzzy eye sight will make us look great, apply that too. Our color choices were good and we looked good together.

Paula

Life Moves On

Hello,

One of Leroy’s seminary classmates is retiring today after 40 years in the ministry. For some reason I have stopped to think about that for Leroy. He is officially retired, but it did not happen with any particular fanfare. He is still working half time in the ministry, and half time at the museum. He has gotten some recognition as he left jobs here and there, so maybe that was a partial retirement. Some days he talks about actually stopping working, but he does not want to quit entirely and cannot choose which job he would stop doing. So for now he will continue as is. I think he would like two full days off a week and sometimes maybe three, but otherwise he is content.  He does not know when his church job will end, but he expects it to last another year or two. As usual we do not know much about our future. I like my job and am not ready to quit either. Strange that we have these jobs we like when people our age are stopping. What happened to us? We simply did not follow the usual pattern.

Today we had a brunch at church. But we ate breakfast before we left home, otherwise we would be too hungry. Then about noon or a little later we went for samples at a food coop. We will eat an early supper because we have an early evening meeting at church. Somehow I think my body does not know what to think. It seems hungry much of the time.

We did get some buckwheat flour at the coop. Tonight we will make buckwheat walnut pancakes. However there will have to be a big side of vegetables because they were not represented at brunch. I certainly miss them.

One thing nice about the meeting at church tonight, we will get our four miles walking today. It is pleasant because the weather is just perfect for that.

Paula

Lovely Fall

Hello,

Leroy commented tonight, “It is November 14 and we are eating broccoli and pea tomatoes that we have just picked.”

The pea tomatoes are next to the house, have a tremendous supply of vine, and were low to the ground allowing them to survive the frost. We did pull them as there is not so much time left.

Leroy also dug up the small rosemary plant in the community garden. I am hoping to be able to save it over the winter and then put it back. I planted some more of the winter onion bulbs in the community garden. They just keep showing up around the house.

Back at the house Leroy got out the ladder and cleaned the low gutters. When Clark came home they went a little higher and even repaired a shingle that had come loose in the last big wind storm.

That wind storm was a furious distributer of leaves. Many of the leaves from our trees that had not come loose went on down the street. In our yard I found some leaves that I believe were from a ginkgo tree, or maybe not a ginkgo. I have no idea where there is such a tree. This has to have come from several houses away.

I pulled up the marigolds from our front garden. All that is left now is one Brussels sprout plant, a broccoli plant, a cabbage that is forming new little heads, and some small carrots. Before we leave for Thanksgiving in DC, I will pick most of those things. They are doing such a good job I dislike disturbing them. Also as Robin said, “They look pretty.” They are a nice green color.

Paula

Sleep Patterns

Hello,

I have been walking up early since the time change. Most of the time I feel rested, but it would be nice to sleep easily beyond 4:30. This morning when I got up to go to the bathroom, I noticed the computer’s lights were on even though I had turned it off before I went to work yesterday at noon. Because Leroy only spent a little time at home I doubted that he had used it. I tried to get the screen to light up, but not luck. Neither the mouse nor keypad made a difference. I tried the on switch with no luck in stopping the humming. Sleep seemed more important so I went back to bed wondering if we had lost the use of the laptop, and why do I not save my things every day? All of that rumbled around in my head for about an hour. Leroy also seemed to be restless, but I did not start a conversation.

After falling back to sleep I commenced dreaming. When I dreamed that my wallet had been stolen out of my purse, I woke up wondering if I should go check on that. Now the lack of a computer working seemed like a very small thing indeed. I knew it was time to get up when I heard Leroy say, “Oh darn.”

It was late enough that we needed to move more quickly for him to get to work on time. One thing that made it easier was that he took the car instead of the bike because the prediction was for rain when he comes home. He does not like riding in the rain.

When informed about the computer, Leroy held the on button for some time and it turned off. I turned it on this morning. It worked, but it took it ten minutes to spin, update, and restart. It now works and I am grateful for that. Can I live without a computer? It would be quite the adjustment.

Paula

Winter is coming

Hello,

Yesterday I did not take the time to write because I had a long to do list. One thing on there was to wash and hang out clothes. Because they were not quite dry before I left for work, I spread them out on the beds. The clothes line is now in the shade all morning so not as much drying going on. Winter is coming.  

The water in the bird bath on the deck had a little skim of ice on it. Winter is coming.

Yesterday I dug all of the winter onions that were in the front garden. They could survive the winter and maybe even reproduce before spring, but I do not need as many onions as I have around here. Plus Leroy wanted them out of there. Winter is coming.

The broccoli in the community garden is now very fine. With two nice heads that are not quite as big as they will get. I left them there for others or me if I get them before the next big cold snap. Winter is coming.

This morning, on the way home from Tai Chi, I drove past the garden to check on the Swiss chard. I could not stop and pick it because I needed to go to the bathroom. But I hurried back on foot, and cut off most of it. I left a few small leaves thinking that they might make it. I also picked some more arugula and cilantro. They like the cool weather. Winter is coming.

Last week I spotted a tiny blooming violet. It was taking advantage of the warm after the cold so --- spring is coming!

Paula

Church Brunch

Hello,

Today was the brunch for women in our church. I set off with my fruit salad in my backpack along with a change of shoes. As I was crossing the parking lot that many people use I was surprised to see it virtually empty. I started thinking, is it the right day, the right time? There were a few traffic cones stacked close to the crosswalk. Next to those cones was a red car. A tripod was on the other side of the car which had the hatch door lifted. A man was close to the tripod which was aimed at the new medical building. When he saw me coming, “He said could you use some half used AA batteries? Or do you know someone who would? If you do not I am just going to put them in the garbage. I am a photographer from New York. These batteries might have a bit more life in them.”

When he stopped for breath, I said, “I will take them and if I do not find a use for them, I will recycle them. It is so much better than putting them in the garbage.”

“Oh I do not want you to go to any work about them.” he said.

“I probably would use them we use rechargeable ones now. I do not mind recycling. How many do you have and do you have a bag for them?”

“I think there is about 30,” he said, “I do have a bag. If you could wait a minute while I gather them.”

I do not think there were 30 but it was quite a few. Leroy figured he did not want to risk getting a picture so he kept changing the battery. He had a lot of cases that would hold batteries.

When I came out of the brunch, he was still there. He waved and came over. This time he asked, “Would you like some air freshener. I thought the motel room smelled of smoke so I went to a store and got some, but then decided to complain and the hotel people took care of it.”

I told him I probably would not use it as my husband does not tolerate many fragrances, but he said, “I have the receipt with it so you could return it. I am just going to throw it in the trash. And here are three more unused batteries.”

“Or I could find someone to give it to,” I said.

Now I think maybe I will return it and give the money away, how do I ask someone if they want air freshener. They might think I was trying to hint that they needed it.

Guess this guy found the right person to keep all these things out of the trash for a little while.

Leroy was quite pleased with all the half used batteries. He put two in a flashlight and it was bright indeed.

That was a lot of talk about what went on outside of the brunch! The brunch was a good and uplifting experience.

Paula