In Washington DC

Hello,

After meeting up with Miriam’s family we got on the Metro. Sarah’s girls met us with umbrellas. Leroy and I had packed our raincoats which we put on. The rain was a little more than I like, but not too much that it was ok for a long block and a half.

The next day, Brian’s family came. All of the cousins met them at the Metro stop with some umbrellas. It was not raining much when they started, but changed dramatically as they got closer to the house. Luckily it was not so far to scurry into the dry.

In the morning, before Brian’s family came and Sarah’s family was at school or work, Leroy, Miriam’s family, and I went to the African-American museum. It was quite good. We could have spent much more time there if we had the stamina. As it was Nora found it sad, especially the information about how the slaves were captured and brought to this country. Our history certainly has some dark and terrible parts to it that were not especially brought out in my history classes. I am not sure that it is all so much better now. Turning a blind eye to injustice seems to be a skill we have honed.

The top floors were more upbeat as they concentrated on the contributions of African-Americans in recent years. There were inventors, politicians, innovators, and many musicians.  I was disappointed to find no reference to Iowa’s tenor, Simon Estes among the Opera singers. Perhaps it is because he performed in Europe as his dark skin was not accepted here. Most of the people they had listed had been on the Met stage.

Paula

Public Transportation

Hello,

I was pleased that the local buses on the way home were mostly full. They are being used so that will keep them running. On our trip to the airport not so many people were on and I felt concerned.

In DC the metro did not seem as full as it usually is. Sarah commented that many users are opting for Uber or Lift. So the metro cut some of the scheduled runs for a time. Sarah and I, along with all the grands rode the bus to the swimming pool. Those buses were quite full. Some of the girls and I came back by ourselves on the bus. I do not think they quite trusted me because I was not sure when the stop was, but I knew that when we got close enough I would know even though it has been perhaps seven years since I have ridden that bus. The end is almost right in front of their house so it is very convenient.

I did notice that on public transport, many riders were using their devices and mostly ignoring the people around them. Because I mostly do not get my phone out I was aware of this phenomena. On the train there is not much to see as it is underground almost all the time, but the bus has things to look at out the window.

Sarah had said she could take Leroy and I to the airport, but we rode the metro quite comfortably. It comes so frequently it is not a problem at all, as well as the fact that it is just a block and a half from their house. The biggest issue would be if our flight was much too early in the morning. I do not want to live in Washington, but I would like to transfer the public transportation system to my current city. If it were as good here Leroy and I could easily have just one car.

Paula

Flying Home

Hello,

Our return trip did have the pre check so we would not have to take off shoes or get out liquids. That was nice. The children urged us to use the phone check in and with coaching that is what we did. Leroy had both of our passes on his phone. Next time I will have my own so we do not have to be so dependent on each other. For some reason Leroy did not take out his wallet from his pocket and set off beepers consequently he had to go through the body scan. There was still a problem so they had him endure that body pat down. In the end he was all ok.

In DC the plane was full and we were sitting to the middle or closer to the back. By the time we got on all of the overhead bins were full and my little carryon would not fit. The flight attendant searched diligently, but to no avail. My bag had to be checked through to the end. Leroy’s more flexible backpack worked its way into the bin. I was disappointed because my little bag does not fare well when it is checked into the hold. I volunteered one time. True to form, it looked a bit tough when I retrieved it from the baggage claim at the end.

When we had boarded the flight in Chicago to Cedar Rapids, the flight attendant told us, after the doors were closed, that we were on a flight to Costa Rica. We all snapped our heads up with breath drawn. Several announced that we were going to Cedar Rapids. This young woman looked at her paper and said, “No, it says here Costa Rica.”

Several people spoke up to argue that all of us were going to Cedar Rapids. After pointing to the paper and being firm, she finally said, “We are going to Cedar Rapids, but it is much warmer in Costa Rica. Got you didn’t I?” We all burst out laughing. She then said, “Laughter is the best medicine.”

The pilot announced, “The flight to Cedar Rapids is only 30 minutes. Usually I say it will be a nice flight, but this will not be a nice flight because of the weather. You must stay in your seats the entire flight as will the flight attendant. There will be no services due to the bumpy ride.”

Taking off and landing were a bit bumpy, but I have been on much more turbulent flights. I am not complaining about that. Not so bumpy as expected is fine.

Paula

Flying Around

Hello,

Last week Leroy and I set out for DC with bus passes in hand. I pulled one carryon bag and carried a back pack. Leroy has, a not too large, back pack that he uses instead of a roller bag. He also carried another bag that would go under the seat in front of us. The light mist in the air did not deter us or our optimism. I felt a bit antsy when the bus did not come until about five minutes later than expected. We strongly believe in using public transportation, but sometimes it is means we wait more than would be necessary. The bus only goes once an hour so it was prudent to get there 1 ½ hours ahead of time instead of only one half hour early with an hour being the ideal. This small airport was very quiet. We were definitely ahead of the crowd. Both of us felt a bit annoyed because we did not have the pre check status that we have become used to receiving. In spite of taking off shoes, it was no deal as there was no line or other people to contend with. With the change of planes in Chicago there were also no issues. Both of our flights were even early.

In DC, Miriam’s family was getting in at almost the same time. I thought I had talked to them about meeting in the “great hall” of the airport. Seven years ago we did this. At the time Olivia was four years old. When she saw me, she hollered and started running toward me with her arms spread wide. I then ran towards her, my arms out also. The hall was almost empty so it worked. Made Leroy and I think about scenes from the movies. Both of us thought about replicating that picture. However, I later learned that Miriam did not remember about meeting us there, but went to our gate. We were no longer in that spot as we had deplaned. They also had to pick up luggage. It was great to see them, those mobile phones certainly are an asset, but just a little disappointing since the “movie” expectation did not work out.

Paula

Busy Day Off

Hello,

I washed three laundry loads and hung them out because of the great temperatures and dry air. All clothes are inside now contributing to a great fresh smell in the house. I know I could have cut that work by much time, but I enjoyed being out.

I have a list of tasks and have managed to cross off more than half. Even if I do not finish that gives me a sense of accomplishment. I will get to cross off the pack today as there will not be enough time in the morning to pack. After checking the temperatures, I just hope I am taking the right weight clothing. At least I could borrow as Sarah and I are about the same size.

My violets are visiting downstairs so they will not be lonely while we are gone. How wonderful is that? The rest of the houseplants will just get a nice drink before we leave. That water should help them feel good for a week.

I was going to exercise, but I am not sure that will be crossed off. Every once in a while I draw my shoulders back and sit up straighter. Does that count as exercise?

Leroy is working today and we have church tonight, but he will still get packed in spite of a gift pick up that he is doing on the way home. What a guy!

I just got a call from San Francisco. Do not think I know anyone there. Whoever it was did leave me a voice message in a language other than English. I believe it was an oriental language. Wrong number? At any rate I did not call back.

Paula

Merry Chistmas

Hello,

Just in case I forget since we are leaving on Thursday, I want to wish all of you a Blessed Christmas. I am not truly sure what Merry is. Does that mean that you are happy, joy filled, laughing, and feeling good? Somehow I would like for you a sense that life will be good and God is with you on life’s journey as God is not really just concerned with one day, but the whole of your life. So may Christmas be a good day in a long string of days with good times.

Yesterday, Leroy and I went to a party that our church choir had been invited to. The house was rather large and impressive in size and how it fit into the landscape. The Christmas decorations and other furnishing were also quite impressive.

Somehow it makes me feel as if I am a step off from the mainstream as it is not something that I aspire to have. Then I wonder, “Am I being honest with myself?” My apartment and my decorations are last in the race, of whatever race this is. I am quite comfortable here. I also have a sense that this is where I should be even if I do not know why.

Riches are not what I think about as a goal in my life. I have enjoyed living in some nice homes, but I do not find them having a larger place in my memory as a good place to be. Instead it is the people around that make most of the difference. Each home, whether large or small, impressive or humble has some good and not so good things associated with it.

I also feel outside of the mainstream because I do not eat many of the foods offered. There were certainly some items that were quite fine and acceptable to me, but I noticed that people really commented positively on the ones that I do not normally eat.

I still had a good time at this party. I feel that contributes to a Merry Christmas. People make all the difference for me. Thank you for being you.

Paula

DVDs

Hello,

I brought home a DVD series for Leroy. It is a season of the Longmire show. There are three discs with about 10 episodes total. It is taking a long time for Leroy to get through these. It has been renewed almost up to the limit. This week I will hopefully take it back as we will soon be gone for a week. I have watched some of these, but not all. It amazes me how many episodes involve a murder. This small town is a hot bed of hatred and revenge. Surely, larger towns do not have so many murders although in the USA we have plenty compared to other countries.

I have also checked out three DVDs that have more calm stories, perhaps might even be called a chick flick. I also have not managed to see them. It is partly because I do not allow myself time to watch TV during the day. And I night Leroy is watching, plus I am gone at least three nights of the week. Leroy is gone a few as well. His evening numbers fluctuate more than mine do. Both of us like to spend time reading everyday so we cannot watch too much.

I am amazed by the library patrons who can check out a season DVD set that might have five discs in it. Many of them manage to watch that in a week’s time. They are allowed to borrow for one week before they have to renew or return DVDs. That seems like a lot of sitting in front of this screen in order to get that done.

My life may change when I am not working, but I hope that does not add too much to the sitting time. I will have to be vigilant to keep myself moving.

Paula

Bike Riding Weather, but…

Hello

Today it was so nice and warm that I walked with a lighter weight coat. Leroy worked at the museum and would have ridden his bike, but it had been stolen Wednesday night when we left the garage door open. Darn! Apparently the only thing worth taking was his bike. We had not locked either car, but we do not keep anything in them so it was not an issue. I suppose these days hot wiring a car is not what it used to be. My bike was not taken, should I be insulted? It is from 1993.

It has been four years since Leroy’s bike was stolen while he was at church. Now when at both work places he has his bike in the buildings so it is not available to anyone else. He is now talking about getting a cheap bike just for around town trips. We both talked about the garage door opener that Brian has which closes after three minutes of no activity under it. Guess these forgetful brains could use that assist. However, it is a very rare occurrence that we forget to close it. Leroy had put the car license tags on for the new year, and needed to open the big door to get behind the car, was in a hurry forgetting to push the down button. The last two days, we have both been a bit hyper active thinking of double checking the door position.

I was also reminded to keep things in perspective because on my way to work that morning the interstate was full of tightly packed travelers when suddenly brake lights came on. All were alert enough to slow enough for some reason that I never did learn. At least I was not in an accident which would/could have been much more of a concern. A bike is just a thing, after all, and replaceable.

Paula

Shopping

Hello,

Yesterday Leroy and I went out to shop fairly early because we do not like to deal with crowds. Leroy looked on his own for some things for me and I just wandered around figuring out the lay of the land when I found a shirt waist dress in the clearance aisle. I am sure that I would wear it so I bought it and told Leroy he could give it to me for Christmas. Rather than get a gift under the tree, I would really like to have him plan some short trips for us in the local area or at least a day trip away. Leroy is not comfortable with the idea of not having something under the tree for me, although he tells me he will work on a trip or two. Maybe the reality of no gift under there would bother me, but I do not think so when I consider it.

Leroy told me he would like a watch and or fitness tracker. After looking at the possibilities on my own, I decided he should help make the selection. Again this is not quite acceptable to Leroy as he likes surprises. I do have three small things that he will be quite surprised about so that is covered in my mind. However after looking at the many different tracker choices, he is unsure of what he does want. By this time we had moved on to another store where, I found a sweater that I like so I bought it and again told Leroy he could put it under the tree for me.

At our last store he did find a sweater/jacket for himself. I told him I would put it under the tree for him. He is all concerned because he does not have any surprises for me, however I do not worry a bit about that. Sometimes he has given me many surprises. Not sure if I even really like surprises. Every day has surprises of its own.

Today I was using social media when I saw that I should send a note to my sister who died over three years ago. It startled me a bit even though I remember that today is her birthday.

Paula

Helping continued

Hello,

After a nurse come in and got a more detailed history, this young woman told me that her dad was flying home from PA. I could go home. It was getting quite late for my bedtime so I did take her up on that offer to leave. However, then she added, “My dad will probably just come for a little while and then go home.”

After thinking a while and with some trepidation, I gave her my phone number. Would this mean that she would take advantage of having that way to get a hold of me? I did know that she would probably not spend the night in the hospital as it seemed like not that type of situation. She would need a ride back to Ely, hence, “Here is my phone number and I will give you a ride back to Ely, if you need that.”

At home Leroy and I had a bit of a discussion about whether I should have handed over access to me at any time. It is hard to know what is the best thing to do. I was praying for answers all of this time, but I am not sure that I received any. Leroy did say that he would go with me to Ely as he did not want me out in the middle of the night by myself.

We went to bed with my phone in the room. That is something I almost never have done.

Kind of terrible, but I find it so much easier to give money as it involves little time and effort. Perhaps that is the trouble with our world, not enough of us are willing to spend time and effort (Is it a luxury?) with a person who needs some help. Obviously this young woman does not have as much support as she needs.

Paula

Helping?

Hello,

Yesterday evening about an hour before 8:00 o’clock closing, a young woman who has had some serious health issues, came in asking if I would take her to the hospital on my way home. At the moment she had a fever and some intestinal issues. The hospital is only about a mile from my home so, of course, I said yes. I called her just as I was ready to leave to learn that she was already outside the back library door.

The road had been slippery earlier in the day so I drove carefully even though I thought it looked fine now. Interestingly enough she cautioned me from time to time. We made it just fine. When I took her up to the door I asked if she would like me to come in with her. With no hesitation she answered in the affirmative. After parking the car I found her in the emergency room lobby. We sat in silence mostly, I do not know her very well and I guess I could not think of much to say. When they called her back to assess the need she asked me to come too. Later we again sat in the lobby before going to a room. I was grateful for the cell phone which allowed me to text Leroy and let him know what was happening as I was now late for getting home.

When they told her what room to go to, she wanted me to come along. Again we did not have much to say to each other. While waiting she saw on Facebook that her grandfather had died. She called someone and yelled at them because she learned this news on social media. I did know that she did not get along very well with her mother. After stopping talking on the phone, she started to cry. I felt a bit at a loss, but got her some tissues and touched her arm. We talked a little more. I hugged her and prayed with her.

To be continued. I did not have time to send this yesterday so it is a day late.

Paula

Old Clothes

Hello,

Today I am wearing old clothes, something that I have had at least in 1999. Who knew that I could live so long that such clothes would still be viable and fit?

Before 1999, Leroy and I bought some warm black “tights” that were marketed for bike rides in cold weather. I cannot remember that we wore them much for that purpose, especially since my ears do not like cold weather blowing in them. But for some reason we hung onto them through multiple moves as if they were dear friends.

Now I feel that I was a fashion leader at that time. Little did I know that everyone or almost everyone would take to wearing slim fitting pants that showed every curve or bulge that the body has to offer?

Generally in public, I have not felt so comfortable in such tight fitting garments, partly because I do not like anything tight on my waist and partly because I felt self conscious. Now that I have seen many bodies so decked, I realize that no one will even pay any attention to how I look. I will fit right in.

I wore these pants on my walk to the grocery store and they kept my legs nicely warm and toasty. I did not hear a single gasp of, “Oh how could she?” They are a little tighter in the waist than I like. I believe I have not gained weight, but cells have shifted and sagged, collecting in the hip girdle as the bones do not allow the mass to go farther south.

Keep an eye on what I wear next; you never know when it will become the height of fashion, even thought it might take twenty years.

Paula

Chewing Squirrels, Stewing Pumpkin

Hello,

Today when out at the compost bin, I could hear a scratching sound. I knew that a squirrel had to be somewhere in one of the trees working on a nut as I have heard that sound before. I found the squirrel tucked up against the walnut tree trunk with its tail sheltering its back. Soon I knew from the symphony of sound that there had to be more up there. It was not long before I spotted two more in much the same posture. I am not sure why I like this find so much, but it fills me with good feelings. I marvel at the power of those teeth that can work their way through the tough, hard shell that requires much strength to crack when using a hammer. Also there is such persistence in being fed with a relatively small amount of nut for the quantity of work.

We have had a pumpkin in the house for decoration. Today I cut it up with much power and almost sawing to get through the unyielding skin. It was a victory to get the last sections apart so they could be put in the pan to steam. As Leroy was working at church, therefore he was no help to me. I also scrapped off the seeds, but did not clean them as I do not especially like them. Leroy likes them so if he wants them he will have to do the cleaning, drying, and roasting. I am not going to be too generous.

The pumpkin pulp is cooked and in the refrigerator, resting until I decide what to do with it. I am tempted to just serve it like squash; after all it is in the same family. But another day will do for that decision process.

Paula

More Cold Trash

Hello,

Today is my day off so I had time to go out and pick up more trash. I bundled for the cold with long underwear and the works in scarves. Was it not so cold, no wind, more clothes, or that I have become a bit more accustomed to the cold that I felt quite fine and made the rest of the block without any cold penetration. Even thought it was only half of the amount of space, compared to days when I do the entire block, I managed to pick up enough trash to fill two plastic grocery sacks. Both of these bags were ones that I had picked up on the previous trip. I snagged another one that will be used another time. I know my life has much plastic in it and some of it I find quite helpful, but plastic is the bane of outdoor litter. I would like to see it curtailed. Wrappings of many types are out there floating around. I suspect it is not good in the landfills either as deterioration is so slow. Just what are we doing to ourselves and our future inhabitants?

One guy came out when I was by his house. From how he first started to talk I was concerned that he might have been offended. Instead he said, “We saw you out front and said, “Look at that sweet lady picking up the trash.””

He even offered me money for doing it. I politely declined. At least I tried to be polite but firm. Hopefully it will be cleaner where I have gathered. It is my understanding that once things are picked up it is more difficult for people to litter. When lots of litter is out there somehow people feel it is ok to add to the amount.

I wear my step tracker when I do this walking, but it does not record many steps. I wonder if part of that is because I carry the bags on that arm so it does not get much movement.

My mantra as I was walking is that the earth is one of my most precious gifts and I must be care for it.

Paula

Cold Trash

Hello,

Because I had not picked up trash in the neighborhood for some time, it seemed that this morning with no snow would be a good time to go out. I bundled for the 23 degree F. weather, but thought that just going around the block would not take so long. I am not sure it if was the wind or just people “dropping” things as they walked, but there was a lot of stuff out there. The gloves from the city are woven and holey. They are a bit large so I put on some slim gloves under them, hoping to keep my hands warm. It worked somewhat. Cold seeped in as time went on. It was also difficult to almost impossible to pick up the cigarette butts. It was also difficult not to pick up leaves or other natural phenomena. Mostly the leaves fell back to the earth with a brisk shake of the hand. Eventually the cigarette butts were passed over to be picked up a warmer day.

Perhaps because I had not picked up for a long time or perhaps because of the strong winds that we have been experiencing, one grocery bag was full before I even did the short end of the block. After the long end the second bag was full. The city provides trash pickup bags that can be put out “free” with the regular garbage. With the addition of those two bags my bag is almost full. By the time I had done just the two sides of the block, cold was penetrating in around my face, legs, and hands. Maybe I should have worn a face mask. I do have such, but it did not seem like it should be so cold, yet.

Tomorrow morning I will try to get back out to finish the walk around the block. Surely it will be warmer tomorrow?

Now an emergency “warmer things” bag is ready to put in car. Sometimes when the weather is bad and I am coming home at 8:00 pm, I am almost alone on the road. I hope these things could help me if I needed to be out in the cold for a longer period of time. At least I feel prepared.

Paula

No Snow

Hello,

We were ready for snow; at least the snow shovel was handy. Leroy and I wore boots for our walk to church thinking there might be some as we made our way home. The pavement was dry both directions. The wind had intensified while we were at church, but the temperature was not so bad. We were quite comfortable.

Part of me is happy that there was no snow and part of me is sorry. Sometimes it is exciting to be in a storm situation if one is safe in all regards. Leroy and I think we often have been in a situation that has a prediction of a major snow storm and it goes some other place. Perhaps we should hire out as storm deterrents? Just what would one charge for such a service?

Apparently there could still be some precipitation overnight, but not so likely. Leroy is even wondering if he can ride the bike to work tomorrow. Then he remembers that he has a dentist appointment in a not so bike friendly area. The car will be his transportation.

I will also work tomorrow and drive the car to get there. I have half a tank of gas. I had planned to fill it because of the winter storm possibility. I pulled into a gas station on the way home from shopping. The first pump that I tried did not dispense gas, but only wanted to give me a receipt. A guy at a pump next to me was also having trouble. I pulled to another pump with the same result. In the meantime the guy went in to pay there. That was the magic and his gas came. I just went home, thinking I will do it another day. I have had trouble at pumps before. Do I have a special touch?

Paula

Ready for more flowers

Hello,

Today I planted the amaryllis bulbs that had been outside in the ground for the summer. Earlier I had dug them so they would not get frosted. To keep them cool I put them on the attic steps. I felt them the other day only to notice that the outside was a little soft. Could they have frozen on the steps? I do not know. I would like to have them bloom after Christmas when I will not have so many other blooming things in the house. Leroy suggested that I just put them in pots and start watering at a later date. This means I can get them off the attic steps. Now they will be in the warm with us.

My holiday cactus is blooming and beautiful, as are the violets. Leroy posted pictures on Facebook. Here is the link so you can also see them. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10217263990888639&set=pcb.10217264015449253&type=3&theater

We are certainly enjoying the flowers.

When the snow comes tomorrow they will shine even brighter.

Leroy worked today, but said; “Only five people came to the library.” However he stayed the full time and found much to keep him busy.

He rode the bike and that apparently was a nice time with the warmer temps and no rain.

I hung out clothes which I also enjoyed as it gets me out. I took a very long walk this afternoon. I even included a bit of a hill so I worked a little harder. I often notice that our walk to church is on such flat terrain.

Paula

Car Troubles?

Hello,

Wednesday, Leroy tried to start “his” car, however all he got was just a sputter or some noise that I cannot write for you to get the full benefit. Luckily I was not going to work so he just took my car. I had thought about shopping, but did not really need to go so it was all good. Yesterday when needing a car again we just used mine.

Last night Leroy visited with some guys about what might be wrong. It did not seem to Leroy that it was the battery, but when one of them learned the battery was six years old, the consensus was that it is quite old.

Leroy tried to call a place that is close to us, but there was no answer. He just walked over to come back and report, “No one is there.”

After a bit he went out and tried to start the car with good results. He drove it to an auto parts store where they checked the battery. It was fine, but not good in the cold. Leroy got the new battery and they installed it. We felt quite lucky as it started again so he could take it someplace rather than have it towed. It is also nice they could change the battery there. Apparently on the newer cars they are not allowed or able to do that as it requires a professional. Sometimes it is nice to have an older car.

Leroy drove the car to work the afternoon. He will have one hospital call and then go on to the museum. Rain is predicted for this afternoon so he did not take the bike.

We are blessed indeed with many transportation options in our life.

Paula

Thanksgiving

Hello,

We are thankful for people who take in those of us who have no family close by. We went to one home for dinner where we more than ate our fill. This evening we will go to another to sample desserts.

Thankful for the internet where I can find out if I want the spelling desserts or deserts! The day will come when the future generation will not be aware of the quandary in a mind about the answer to many simple questions. I am grateful that I married a good speller even if he does believe in taking naps so I cannot get the answer to every quarry immediately.

I am grateful that we could walk to our first meal and that the weather was fine even if a bit cool. The sun was out, warming the air and our minds.

We are grateful for that gift of a futon that Leroy now frequently uses for his naps. It is so quick and easy for him just to plop down and use the decorative pillows for head and knees.

We are grateful that we were able to can another seven quarts of applesauce early so it is done and packed away for another day’s enjoyment. We had just enough jar lids to do the job.

We are both grateful for libraries that supply our reading wants and needs so handily. Reading keeps us happy.

And then there is electricity and all of the parts of our life that are dependent on it to live the way we do. Grateful indeed!

Paula

Boney Hands

Hello,

I look at my hands and think, “Whose hands are these? They surely can’t be mine.”

These hands look more like my grandmother’s hands. But how can that be? Even before her death at 87, she was always old, so of course. her hands looked like an old person’s hands are supposed to look. I am not old, am I? Or perhaps, I should ask, “How did this happen?” Leroy still has plump hands. How unfair is that? As far as I can tell he cares not what his hands look like. In all honesty I should note that I do not have much plump on many parts of my body. Boney is the lay of the land.

One thing I know for sure is that these hands have done a lot of things in the 70 years they have been attached to the ends of my arms. They are doing something every day. Many of those things are not of extreme importance unless I lost the ability to do that thing for myself such as blow my nose or feed myself. I can also scratch or wipe myself. It does not seem like much, but what a gift to be able to do that without asking for help.

My hands also lift, move, or grasp an object. I can put my hand into an area that is too small for the rest of my body and retrieve something that is an arm’s length away. I can write this letter as well as write when I use a pen and paper. Such versatility!

I can hug my loved ones when they are close enough. I have cared for babies that entered my life. I can wipe away a tear and comfort someone with touch. How blessed I have been to maintain these functional hands.

Paula

Appreciate Health

Hello,

I am so amazed that I do not appreciate health when I have it all the time, but usually after a short illness I realize how wonderful it is. Seems that is a picture of much of life, appreciate something when it has been absent for a while.

Will that be true of Leroy if he dies before I do? I must appreciate all his good qualities now while I still have them around to irritate me. Each night before we go to sleep we give each other a compliment. We have been doing this for some 40 years. The hard part is that sometimes we challenge ourselves to give the partner a new compliment. Once in a while one of us can still come up with something new, but it is a struggle. However I do not mind hearing the same compliment a few times over.

Going back to health, I am impressed with how much our bodies can heal and grow back together. For instance think about a broken bone or cut skin. We may not be bionic, but we are quite wonderfully made.

Even when a part is missing on a body, there is often an alternative way of doing things. And to think we have a brain that can figure out some of those possibilities. Now technology helps people in many ways, perhaps contributing to that bionic body that was not possible when I was a girl.

Paula

Apples

Hello,

Someone gave us some Haralson apples. Some of them were in two baskets that seemed smaller than a bushel to Leroy and I, but there was also a box and two bags of them. We canned seven quart this afternoon. There are quite a few left, but I am undecided about whether to can some more or just try to eat them. Leroy and I eat three apples a day between the two of us. They disappear rather quickly from my house. Considering how tired I feel right now, canning will certainly wait for a few more days. I am off on Wednesday and I could do it then.

I am sure that these are the last of the apples that we will be given this season. It was 14 degrees this morning making the walk to church quite chilly. I had on my long underwear and was not sorry on the walk, however in church I felt a bit hot.

Apples in the morning, apples in the afternoon, and apples at night! There can never be too many. With beautiful flowers and apples, life is quite full.

Sarah’s Christmas cactus or Thanksgiving cactus is sporting 45 blossoms. I do not think mine will have so many. Right now it has four open pink blossoms. I just get so much joy from looking at that beauty. The white plant probably has a total of six small buds. The violets are just as beautiful as when it first opened with the second plant working hard to catch up. It has one stalk up and open, with another half way up.

I am still tired, but not coughing much with only a little nose blowing.

Paula

Better, but...

Hello,

I woke feeling quite chipper, did two loads of clothes, went grocery shopping, came home, and sat for a while before putting away the groceries because I no longer had much energy. After eating a snack I felt better.

Did I mention that I hung the clothes out? The prediction was to get to 41 degrees F. Seemed to me that would be good to dry clothes especially the sheets. However, it was not that warm and felt quite damp so I brought everything in. I was tired once more.

I spent some time reading The Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra. I so appreciated the writing and phraseology, but the subject was hard. It was about the wars in Chechnya. It ended in 2004 when we lived in Slovakia. I knew things were not good, but not as bad as they were portrayed in this book. This gave it a more human form. There was also something written about the sex trafficking. I remember reading about that when in Slovakia because they seemed to prey on girls from Eastern Europe. I had not been to that part of the world, but it still felt close. I am astonished that so much terrible seems to happen in my back yard and I just do not know about it until later.

Tomorrow I will go to work for the entire day, or at least the seven hours that the library is open. In the evening we have a symphony concert. I will not push myself too much. Supper will be done by the crock pot and Leroy. So I can relax about that. Saturdays are not so busy sometimes at the library. I am hoping tomorrow will be one of those days.

Paula

Home for Objects

Hello,

There are some things in my house that have no home. For instance, we had an energy audit. Part of that was that they put in a new more upscale aerator on the kitchen faucet. After he made the switch the guy gave me the original and told me, “Put this away so if something should happen to the new, you will have the old to return to the spot.”

I have no drawer for old aerators! I put it under the sink and hoped that I would remember what seemed like a good storage place when I thought of it. Leroy suggested putting it in the file cabinet with apartment issues file. That is a fine suggestion, but I do not like bulking up the files.

Another example of the mystery home, I bought a new pair of leather mittens. I have not worn them outside, but I believe I will like them. They came with a sample of wax for weather proofing leather. I put that on the gloves only to find that I used less than half of the amount in the plastic package. The instructions seemed to indicate that it would be good on any leather. When Leroy comes home I will see if he wants to use some of it on his gloves or shoes. If not then I have o find a home for this, because of course, I would not want to throw away such a valuable thing. I could spend days searching for it.

I am feeling better today, but only stayed at work for three hours. Tiredness started to become more pronounced, plus someone who is to have cataract surgery Monday did not want to come close to me or have me handle any of their materials. Not sure why I feel obligated to go to work even when a little bit ill. I suspect I did spread my germs freely here and there. A nap helped, but I have had a hard time waking up from that. Tomorrow will be better. I have the day off so no need to go to work.

Paula

Getting Well

Hello,

Yesterday I went to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned and checked in spite of having a slight sore throat, a bit of a cough as well as a runny nose. I did tell the hygienist about my condition before she started. She responded, “I wear a mask and gloves so it does not bother me.” I do like getting my teeth cleaned. It feels good for a day or two.

I did not feel too badly so went to work in the afternoon. However, as the day worn on I coughed more and felt more and more tired. A number of tissues ended up in the wastebasket close to my desk.

That night sleeping was a bit difficult with a full head and coughing from time to time. I had today off from work and was quite happy to stay home and make granola only to realize that I was out of unsweetened coconut. I made a quick trip to the store and got the granola made before lunch. I am grateful that I live in a place where the stores are so close. I could easily make this trip that was about a mile away.

This afternoon I took a nice nap and felt quite a bit better. I am hoping for a nice sleep tonight which will set me up for a day of work tomorrow. I have yoga in the morning. I am not looking forward to any poses which have my head hanging down. However, by then my head might have cleared out considerably. I am much peppier than I was earlier today and yesterday.

Paula

Brain as Sieve

Hello,

I had a brilliant idea of something that I wanted to write, but that idea is no longer residing in my brain. Where did it go? Should I send the file clerk to retrieve it? I used to think that a very, very small person lived in my head and they could go fetch some idea when I needed it, because I had thought it before.

I do remember that I walked to the grocery store this morning. It felt much colder to me than I remembered 24 degrees F. feeling. Apparently my body leaks knowledge as well. Needless to say I walked briskly along.

I was quite surprised to see so many vehicles in the parking lot. Through the glass I could see so many people were seated in the eating area. When I entered the building I saw a sign, “Free breakfast for veterans.” That explains it. Many of these veterans looked rather shabby. I was particularly happy to have them get this appropriate gift. In my mind it is much better than a coffee mug.

Too bad there cannot be free breakfast for other groups as well. It seems to me that it must be hard to always go get a free meal when it shows everyone that you are not able to manage on your own. Free to all because I am part of a particular group, means I do not have to declare my need.

I had a friend who told me that she used food stamps for a time. She described her first visit to the store as one of the most emotionally difficult things she had done. At the time she felt that she was declaring to the world that she was poor and she felt of less value because of it. This certainly gave me some new thoughts on the subject, but unfortunately no solutions that would help people climb out of that rut and mire of degradation.

Paula

Fall Day

Hello,

Leroy left for a church staff retreat. He went early with one other person because they were going to hike. He fussed about what clothes to wear. Long underwear or not? Heaviest coat or not? Facemask or not? In the end he went with the “not” choice because it was almost nice on the walk home from church.

This weather is difficult to figure out. I went for a walk this afternoon and was almost too warm. At least I could shed my gloves and unzip my coat a bit.

I had put the potting soil in the house in preparation to planting some vines that had nice roots started. We generally keep the soil in the garage where it freezes or is really too cold and shocking for the cuddled houseplants. It was almost adventurous to be doing this potting outside in the sun. I also added some soil to a plant that is going to move to Leroy’s office when it is not too cold and he takes the car to church. Last year I put several plants in his office. One died and one was rather messy, dripping leaves on the floor and file cabinet. I still think he needs some green in there to lift his spirits as well as the spirits of his two office mates. Leroy shares his office with the intern and a volunteer who sends cards to members who have had a loved one die. I am not sure quite how it all works out, but Leroy says that he seldom sees the others. I do not know how many hours the volunteer is there and Leroy is half time as is the intern. Any way it all works out. What a great use of space. Not so wasteful.

Now it is quite cloudy. Amazing how sun helps me to feel warm and clouds the opposite. Is it all in the mind?

Paula

Winter?

Hello,

This morning our temperature outside was 13 degrees F. We did not get as much snow as some areas did but it still seemed quite a change of season.

I even drove to church this morning for a women’s breakfast because I was going to speak. When I walk I wear a hat and my hair gets rearranged in styles that I sometimes do not like. Vanity won the self talk should I walk or should I drive this short mile. I wasted gas so I could look good.

I was a little nervous before I started talking, but that was ok as I just kept talking on. As I told them in the beginning, it was nice to know some faces when I looked out at the group. Each of these breakfasts has a speaker who is from the congregation. She shares details about her faith journey. That was a new experience for me to talk about that in front of a group.

This afternoon Leroy and I finished delivering the neighborhood newsletters. This was the longest walk away from the house, but still not too far. The hardest part was getting the letters apart with mittens on. A few were taped to the apartment buildings close to the door. We are not allowed to put anything in the mail boxes and there is no other place to put them so they do not blow around. The taping required bare hands so I did that as Leroy has cold hands even with terrific mittens. I was happy that one woman was at the door so we could just put it in her hands.

We will not have another newsletter to deliver until March when it might be warmer. We do not have neighborhood meeting in January and February so our time can be spent contemplating the world as it turns.

Paula

Weather equipment

Hello,

Snow on the ground with low temperatures did not seem too noticeable cold without wind. This afternoon the wind picked up. It was interesting to see what it felt like on our thermometer. I did not watch all the time but when I was close and the wind was strong it took the “feels like” numbers down quite a lot. For instance, right now the temperature is 23 and it feels like 17 with a fluctuating wind. I am not sure when it makes that conversion.

I delivered more of the neighborhood newsletter in spite of the knowledge of feels like cold. I am grateful for the new long underwear I bought that fits under my jeans without a problem. It is amazing how just two layers of clothing made it comfortable to take a few thousand steps. I did have to be careful in some places as there was ice underfoot. Luckily I could walk around most of it and only slipped once when I was not paying attention.

There are still some copies to deliver, but I was getting cold hands so I came home. We might finish it tomorrow or I can do it Sunday afternoon. Leroy is going to a retreat on Sunday so that would be only my job then. He is home tomorrow and we might get it done.

Leroy did not ride the bike today because he had some work to do for church that involved a bit more travel than he likes to do on the bike. Lucky him, he has a car that runs in hot or cold weather. Have you ever thought about how much variation in conditions/temperature the vehicles can tolerate? All those inventors have figured out a lot of things.

Paula

Leroy Is Well

Hello,

Leroy was lying on the floor by the bathroom when I came home Monday evening. He was cold and miserable, declaring with unusual firmness for Leroy, “I am not going to take the rest of that liquid.”

I checked the jug of colonoscopy prep, noting that he had consumed more than half, but not quite what I thought he should get into his body. However he was so emphatic that I did not argue, but tried to figure out how to make him a bit more comfortable. The first thing was to turn up the heat. After that I looked over the instructions and saw that he could have some warm tea or broth. He was tired of broth so we checked the teas. He did not want any of them but settled for some warm water with a very small amount of honey. Sitting at the table and drinking that made him feel a little better. He even looked at the newspaper comics before he went to bed. He was up just a few times in the night before I asked him about taking some more that prep stuff. Amazingly he said, “I too think I should take more, I am going to finish it.”

We both felt better about that. Guess we are people who like to follow instructions. When we got to the appointment, they said it was all good. He does have some diverticulosis. That is probably what caused the inflammation when he had his fainting episode.

At any rate it is not a cause for concern at this time.

Paula

Walking in the Rain

Hello,

When Leroy and I were ready to leave the house for church we had a little discussion about walking or driving. With an outdoor check of the current conditions which was just a little rain we set out with umbrellas up and mostly sensible shoes on the feet. About two blocks from home the intensity of the rain picked up. We did not turn back but kept up a positive outlook with comments that it still is not too bad, but Leroy said, “My pants legs will be wet by the time we get to church.”

I had little to no sympathy as I was wearing tights so my leg skin was less protected. In addition, my umbrella is much smaller. I had started out carrying the backpack, but asked, after a time, “Could you carry the bag as I think my umbrella does not cover it and me very well?”

As I knew he would, Leroy immediately took on that load while I held his umbrella so he could get his arms through the straps. Team work is still alive and well in our house.

On the walk home the rain was considerably less, however, from time to time there was a bit stronger wind. I was happy to be out. We cut through the close college campus and enjoyed one solitary tree that had not yet lost the bulk of its leaves. Besides looking at leaves which carpeted the ground in many places we also keep a sharp eye alert for the puddle. Our grandchildren might walk through them, but we walk around them.

When home, we did put Leroy’s pants on the clothes rack so they could dry. The umbrellas stayed down on the porch until they were almost dry. What a gift space is.

Paula

Work, Work, Work!

Hello,

Leroy and I came home from MN on Monday. I went to work about two hours after we got home. I then worked Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. No time to write with household things claiming my attention. Friday, I went shopping in the morning. In the afternoon I made sure the house was mostly shipshape so a friend could come and collect one of the violets.

It was wonderful to visit with her as we had not connected for a few years. Leroy had spread papers out on the table in the room where the violets were sitting in the window. I really wanted to pick them up but resisted the urge and more amazingly I resisted the urge to explain that Leroy had put them there and I was respecting his organization. Today Leroy and I did have some discussions about the issues represented by those papers and now all but two are filed or thrown. The two remaining will require a phone call on regular business hours.

Leroy will have a colonoscopy on Tuesday so he is adjusting his diet today, but not without complaining that there is no crunch in what he is eating. No seeds, no nuts, no fresh veggies, no fresh fruits, and no whole grains makes food that is hard to find in our house. However he is surviving. I keep reminding him it is only temporary.

I will have book club at church this Sunday. I had started the book before I left for MN, but I do not like to take library books with me in case I lose it. When I came home I forgot that I had not finished the book so now I am skipping and skimming. That is not my favorite way to read, but at least I have the basics of the story in my head.

Paula

Tired Leroy

Hello,
Leroy went to the airport with Brian and Jen. He then drove home by himself. He had looked at the map ahead of time so he had an idea of what he wanted to do. He could not hear his phone directions at first so he was glad of that look and his good memory. Before he got home Brian called to check about something and asked, "Is dad home yet?"
Until that point I had not been worried, but from then until he drove into the drive I was doing some serious thinking about where he might be. He took a different route home than they took to get to the airport, consequently he had a lot more traffic to contend with. Much of the time that meant he was slower. He did say that he was happy to get home. It is nice to have that navigator person in the car. We help each other when driving in slightly unfamiliar territory.
We went to my favorite shoe store where I spent more money on one pair of shoes that I have ever done. This morning I took them back because after spending two hours walking around in the house my toes were not happy. I decided why have unhappy toes for over $100 when if necessary I can have unhappy toes for less than $100.
Lest night or evening Leroy was a bit short with the kids. I expect that tiredness was the problem. Today he is taking a nap. Hopefully that will help to keep him calm. Being in another place even if we are familiar with it, is tiring. Not the same bed or the same utinsels for many things.
I encouraged Leroy to walk the dog this morning instead of me. I hope that helped when he connected with nature in the park even though he did not hear the owl.
Paula

At Brian's House

Hello,
We are at Brian's home doing babysitting duty while they take a long weekend out of town. On the rather uneventful drive here we were privileged to see an eagle fly up out of the road ditch. The word pad on my tablet does not do a good job of spell check. So I am asking you to be kind in your thoughts and give me a break because I am without my spell check crutch.
Once we were close to their home when we do know the way, Leroy decided to take an early exit, thinking it was the way to go. I who almost never swear said, "I don't know where the hell we are." How did that happen? Are those words floating around my head from my childhood? My father used such frequently. Unlike today's favorites, his favorites were hell and damn.
I was going to get the phone directions going, but decided the paper map would be quicker. In a panic, because one must keep moving and one must not get lost, lessons learned from my childhood, I opened the MN map which did not have small streets or roads for the city. When we came to a T in the road, Leory was sure we needed to go right and I really wanted to go left, but he had the wheel so I acquissed to Leroy's control. Eventually, really in a short time, we got to some streets with names we recognized. It did not take long to get to the house. We were both grateful for the quick recovery. As it turned out, from looking at the city map, either right or left would have worked at the point of turning decision.
Paula

Beauty in My Life

Hello,

The violets are blooming. Every time I walk in the office I am pleased just to look at them. I have three plants. Two are blooming beautifully and the third is starting by sending up a bud shoot. I do not need three. If I knew of someone who wanted one, I would give one to them as the original plant was given to me. Sharing is a good thing.

The pink Christmas cactus is becoming loaded with buds. Even though they are still quite small I am anticipating the result in a month or so. This plant was also a shared gift.

Even the plants that remain green all of the time are a treat for my eyes. There is something about the life in it that sooths. Also the plants are so little bother, they never bite or bark.

We are weeding books at the library partly because they have been sitting on the shelf for a long time without being checked out and partly because our space is limited so we are making room for the new.

There were several SC-FI books that I had neglected to bring home to Leroy. He now has books waiting for him to read. He is a happy man. His beauty comes in different ways. His eyes lit up in anticipation of delights to come when he saw what I brought home.

Paula

Here is a link so you can see the plants

https://photos.app.goo.gl/rAewpZYMCuFRhjMKA

Nice Sunday

Hello,

It was cool when we walked to church this morning. We were grateful that there was no wind. As it was my checks felt quite happy to go inside. The trick, as always, is to dress warm enough to walk in the cold, but with enough layers off to be comfortable inside.

Coming home it was much warmer, but there was more wind so not quite as comfortable as we had hoped. In the afternoon when we went to a faculty concert at the local collage the temperature was quite fine. It was so nice when we got home and I only needed 700 more steps that I proceeded to walk around the block and pick up trash. It has been quite a while since I have been picking up, but there was not much to find. The strong winds yesterday might have blown much of it away or the leaves were hiding all sorts of things that I did not see. Some leaves did not come down in the wind yesterday, but succumbed to the frost. One tree across the street lost many leaves very recently and they were quite a dark green. I did not know such a thing would happen.

Leroy and I played boggle this afternoon and he beat me on the first game. The score was eight to one. I was amazed. Leroy had all but one word that I had found. Obviously he found more to make that winning score.

Paula

Windy Day

Hello,

Leroy had a list of chores that he made up all by himself. I did not add to it. The first was removing and replacing the broken slat on the blinds in the living room. The rethreading task is best for two people. We must be gaining skill as it only took us a bit more than half an hour to get the job done. One of the others needs help, but neither of us felt that today was the day to work on it. We could see the wind outside, but it did not bother us.

He cleaned up some of the stove grating and that was a nice fix. We also went to the garden to pull up some of the plants that did not survive the frost. When the compost bin, which the city picks up, was full we pulled it back home. The wind was quite noticeable in the garden. Luckily we did not have to chase many things. Leroy’s hands got quite cold as his gloves were summer garden gloves.

The house next door is getting some new roof shingles. I do wonder what the wind feels like up there. The house is quite tall. All three workers have on a safety belt. Wow, I just saw one of them slip. That rope was a life save, helping him stop before he went over the edge.

Leroy is picking up some walnuts for the winter. The nuts from our tree taste quite fine. I wish they were not so work intensive to get out of the shell. The squirrels have eaten or buried piles of them. In a few days there will not be so many to be found.

Our wind monitor is somewhat sheltered, but today it frequently recorded speeds of 16 mph even though the official report is for speeds up to 25 mph.

The sun is bright today and the leaves are beautiful, but many are falling. I do like fall. In order to get enough steps, I will go out for a brisk walk.

Paula