Two blessed days in one week---so far!!!

Just before 10:00 am Julia called me from the road to report that Dee got through her cardiac cath procedure with flying colors! Yes, she was scheduled for that yesterday but got bumped over and over by heart attacks in other folks....When she called me last night to tell me, she said she didn't know why they always came and got her doctor for this, and I said, "Because you wanted the best man, and evidently, he was it!!!" She agreed with that....guess you wouldn't want the least desirable man of medicine to do YOUR procedure, right?

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So, Dee was first on the list this morning, and with no muss, no fuss, came through with a perfectly clean bill of health. The doctor even commented that her arteries were so clear, she didn't even need to take cholesterol medication any longer! Wow! Makes me want to go have a cath just to make sure everything is okey-dokey...well, maybe not.....

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Dee will be home around noon today and might be laying low yet tomorrow. "Might" is the key word here, as she'll most likely be ready to jump right back into work. Our prayers were answered, God was with Dee and guided the hands of the medical folks and we can breathe a sigh of relief and offer a prayer of thanksgiving for my dear, dear friend's good report!!!

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Earlier I was invited to attend a breakfast at my friend, Pam's, office but sort of was a lazy bones and really didn't want to be far from the phone in case Julia called. It would have been nice to see the presentation from an area builder discussing the growth of Clay County and so on. Joanne had seen it before and said it was quite interesting but my heart and mind were elsewhere. I am meeting Martie and Chris for lunch in a few minutes and then going to Martie's to crop and work on cards. Yippee! It's great to be back in the swing of things again!

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Two blessed days so far this week---let's go for a record!!!

Something I forgot to mention

This is something that happened several days ago but I just now remembered it: I stopped at the cemetary to check on things there and discovered that the Matchbox cars, usually kept in a ceramic dish, had washed or blown out of the container. They were in close proximity to the dish but when I tried to pick up one that used to a truck, it simply crumbled in my hands. Now, normally this would send me into a tailspin but really, now, these vehicles have been exposed to every kind of weather, some of them for the entire 7 years....(seven years sounds like a long time, but in this case, it isn't). Something was bound to happen to them. Heat makes them brittle as does other nasty weather.

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I couldn't help but wonder to myself how much longer I'd keep this type of thing on his site, what difference did it make to have the cars and the angel statues and the praying hands? It would be significant to NOT have some evidence, some physical above-the-ground reminders of what type of person is buried there. A child, my child....

*

Sure, I have the bench there to mark the spot and all that, and his tree, but the cars being left there, some by us, some by unnamed visitors, some by those who knew him....yeah, I'll keep the stuff there. I just wanted to talk about it some today.

It's a blessed day!!!!

I rode in the new elevator tonight!!!! It smells very new and I hope it stays this way for a while... such a joy! The "car" seems quite modern with tiny lights on the ceiling, like spot lights, instead of the fluorescent tubes that used to illuminate it. Nice, very nice!

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Some storms passed through the area late today but let up in time for Brenda N. and I to enjoy an evening sitting on the deck at Whitey's. I'd wanted to sit on the "new" deck but it's closed due to the construction of a permanent roof, so settled for the other one instead. She loved her birthday necklace purchased from Lori, a pearl-looking blue/pink disc with a multi-strand beaded necklace holding it. You get the picture...She is quite impressed with Lori's craftiness, and wondered how come I didn't get into beading. I explained not needing another hobby at this time---let Lori, Lisa, and Linda make beautiful things for me to wear.

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Looking around my room tonight, I can't help but think back to the old days when we'd be hosting a party or some gathering at our home, and my spouse would go clean up the garage or the basement instead of vacuuming or dusting the rooms where we were actually entertaining. Junk would be piled in the laundry room or brought up from downstairs, making more of a mess than we started with upstairs. This is how my room looks after emptying the suitcases and putting them away. Now the contents of those bags is scattered or piled on available flat surfaces, waiting for someone to put them somewhere......It always gets worse before it gets better! At least my clothes are put away, now it's just papers and mail and purchases and scrapbooking supplies...

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....which reminds me----just before I left tonight, my doorbell rang and here was the delivery man with my purchases from The Honey Pot! I said, "Don't tell me you just carried those up the stairs!?!" and he replied, "Yeah, and they got heavier the closer I got to the top!" He then said, "They are from Two Rivers. I know where that is!" This guy is originally from West Bend, and his accent was exposed. He said it gets stronger when he's talking to someone else with this accent....a very nice guy! Little did he know that 20 minutes later and he'd been able to ride the elevator instead of hike the stairs!

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When I got downstairs, I went over to see how the elevator was coming. Three workmen were standing there talking to Jeff, my neighbor, who ran the job. I told them all how tickled I was to have the elevator back, that it was a long climb up to the 6th floor. One guy looked at me and said, "There are only 5 floors" and I said, "Oh no, don't tell me it doesn't go all the way up!?!" I had him going there for a minute........

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It's still drizzling a bit out there, but at least my car looks better than it did. Most of the yellow accumulated pollen washed off in the rain this afternoon. Julaine left me an hysterical phone message, accusing me of trying to steal her husband, telling me he was still too new to let go of...This was in response to my request for Fausto, the Master Gardner, to make a house call for my ailing lemon tree. Yes, my tree is sick, so I am sick, too. Last year we had the same thing, a white yukky fungus gunk appearing on the leaves and the lemons...sticky feeling and leaves falling. I am scared about something killing my tree, can't bear the thought of a disease bothering my precious lemon tree. I told y'all about the history of the tree. He's going to come over, and bring his bride for safety purposes, to check on it for me. I thank God for all the good people in my life!!!!

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While thanking God for these people, I must also ask for His guiding hand as my dear friend, Dee, undergoes a cardiac cath. procedure tomorrow. My "job" is to make sure that Julia gets lunch, and I am so qualified for this responsibility. It will be good for Julia to have a bit of company midday, so she doesn't have to think about her mom all by herself. I can wring my hands with the best of 'em----but, of course, that's not necessary, since the Lord has Dee fully in His! We'll just enjoy our sandwiches and leave it to Him!

Anniversary Day today

I feel purple today!

Back at home, changed into my civies, and at my desk....what a day! Today was a celebration of the 30th anniversary of my church, Good Shepherd Lutheran. Just think----G. S. was merely a child when we moved to Florida and joined there. That was in fall of 1988 and Justin was a babe in arms yet--well, more like 15-months old, but still....

When I arrived at church, two Mike's were out by the grill, roasting the fatted calf to be served for lunch. Mike C. enjoyed the bag of cheese curds I gave him to devour while they cooked. The other bag was my "dish to pass" for the dinner.

The worship service was quite nice, starting with the Sunday school children singing in front of the church. Robbie served as cantor for part of the liturgy and did a remarkable job, of course. At the end of the service, the choir sang The Doxology, accompanied by piano and viola (played by Suzanne), and then we exited immediately to get the choir robes hung up so we'd be out of the way when the dinner started. Whew! As we hustled through the breezeway, I commented to Kristi that I hoped no one was wanting an encore, the way we flew out of the church!

I got back over to church in time to serve as Greeter. My hug supply was renewed, as I got as many as I gave. Oh, it was terrific to see everyone again after being away so long! As soon as I could get into the Fellowship Hall, I got the VCR fired up, showing the video of the pouring of the concrete and framing of the former classroom building. Much of the video has the excessive moving and focusing which causes nausea but we got through it okay. Cindy kept her purse close by in case she felt urpy....At the appointed time, Pastor read excerpts from letters sent wishing us a blessed day, including one from Dan Reich, who served as Vicar when we arrived here in '88.

Then it was show-time! Mike Kelley, Evelyn Ruppert, and I gathered around the Time Capsule and they used screwdrivers to open it while I read my speech. Gordy claimed I took an hour but it certainly was not that long! One page, man, one page! It was rich to see what was in the capsule--newsletter, budget, pricing for the building, newspaper, bulletin, directory. The clincher, though, was the cover of the capsule which had the "autographs" of our members and friends. Some got a bit messed up because the box was glued shut and had to be pried lose, but think it can be salvaged. Even Mom's name is written inside the Time Capsule!!!! Mine is there, too, plus my former spouse, but not Justin's. Sad!

It was fun to watch people watch the videos, seeing people who are no longer with us or to comment about how much people still at G. S. have aged or grown, as it were. No one could believe how cute Justin was, dashing about between people's knees and such, as was his custom. Part of the video shows the ribbon cutting for the new classroom building, now our "old" building, and then a birthday party for Pastor Schuppe, who was there as our Guest Preacher. George Sitgreaves was dressed up as Father Time and we gave Pastor amusing "old age" gifts and a black frosted birthday cake.

Those were the days!

More photos.....if you can stand it, and even if you can't!

Here's Linda, working hard at her desk at F. G.

Kim, Tarren, Grace, and Pete Prange

Grandma K holding Manny, then Lisa with Gabe

Manny, who learned how to cross his eyes!

See the pretty snow banks at First German!!

My first day in town and I was off to First German to help collate the newsletter. The ladies from left are Marilyn (friend of Judy J.'s), Alice, Marion, and Mom

Listening to old music with old ears

Some of the time spent at Lori's at Holmen was once again playing with the old vinyls. David and Lori still have a usable turntable and had great fun digging through the archives of albums-bins and bins worth-carefully sorted and catagorized. Lori wanted to surprise me with the albums, not letting me peek ahead of time, to see if I could guess the artist and song in "record" time, like we used to do when younger. To my surprise, I did fairly well, not always remembering the titles but most often the lyrics.

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The reason this came to mind today is that I was lying in bed, watching a strange movie with Hugh Grant, and the lyrics to "Free Man in Paris" suddenly passed through my mind. I got myself a bowl of cereal and then located my copy of "Court and Spark" by Joni Mitchell. We'd listened to some of that album at Lori's which was extremely cool to do again. Such huge contrasts in my musical tastes, Joni and Janis and Sarah! Unfortunately, the Schipper collection has no Janis in it, those were all mine, but David did manage to find the Buffy Ste. Marie albums to play, none of which had the "Must I Go Bound" song I needed to hear! I'll have to research that on-line or something to find it.

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"Must I go bound and you so free? Must I love one who doesn't love me? Must I be born with so little art as to love the one who would break my heart?" Can't you just hear Buffy's quivering voice launching that question? Perhaps not, if you've never heard her sing...I hear it often in my head, that, and "Free Man in Paris".

David the Troubadour, playing his guitar at Justin's graduation, entertaining our Goddaughter, Sarah

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One last thing about Buffy: I became a fan of hers many moons ago (a little Indian lingo there) when I babysat for my cousin's daughter, Cheryl Lynn. David and Rochelle lived in Newton, a suburb of Manitowoc, and I'd often stay overnight due to the late hour and long ride. TV used to go off the air just after midnight back in the day, so I'd listen to their albums on the console record player. That's also when I discovered Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Dolly Parton, what's his name Waggoner...did I mention David was a truck driver??? This must have been 1972 or 73, I think.

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I told Rochelle one day how much I enjoyed listening to Buffy and she told me to take it along home with me, that they didn't really like her singing after all. Great! That started it for me, and Lori as well, since we were into folk-style music at the time. I loved Buffy until she got all nuts with the politics and anti-war stuff. We did get to see her up close and personal in Milwaukee at a fund-raiser for the Indians that took over the novitiate---in support for Wounded Knee, I think. That was back in 1974 or 75, can't remember, only wanted to see Buffy! Lori drove down from Manty and the three of us went to UW-Milwaukee to hear her sing. I was still a newlywed at that time....back in the day.....

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Okay, so I am ashamed of myself for whimpering about climbing the stairs these days! Yesterday, as I was leaving to have dinner with the Rosses, I met my 5th floor neighbor, Michelle, on the 2nd level, heading up the stairs, pushing a bike. The poodle rode in the basket...I asked what she was doing and she said they've had to do this every day in order to get the bike up and down. I was astounded!!! I didn't ask why she needed the bike down stairs everyday but she said the dog loves to ride in the basket...okay.......what? You'd think there was a place it could have been secured downstairs, even on someone's patio, rather than moving it on the stairs....oh my! And I fuss about carrying my purse down and up again!!!

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Kerry sent me a video tape of the terrible storms that passed through their area (Oshkosh) last evening. I can even hear the storm sirens howling above the pounding rain. She said she's such a goober for standing there with her camera, but I'd do the same thing if I were her! I'll have to check the TV stations in her area to see what the reports show, as far as touchdown or anything.

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The river is calm today and I'd love like anything to jump in the car and head for the beach! It's supposed to be 81 above zero today and I have nothing pressing until the Symphony tonight...I really should unpack my suitcases though and put that stuff away once and for all. It looks like such a wretched mess in here, could do that instead of going to the beach. I could also sit by the pool, if I want to.....it's great to be home!

A much better morning!

What a great night's sleep! Whew! It makes a difference, this is for sure. I woke up in the middle of a strange dream, where Justin and I are standing on the deck of a ship (really?), witnessing some sort of flying vehicle, in the shape of a large paperclip, crash to earth on the shore. We were paralyzed, mesmerized, didn't even seek cover or anything to protect ourselves, but watched as explosive pulses ignited a tree, then knocked over a house built on stilts. We could see people sitting around a table eating dinner. I was screaming to Justin about the people in that house, when it shook first, then collapsed. People were struggling to get out from under the debris.....as dreams go. In a real-life situation, the people would have already been on the floor if something next door exploded like that, wouldn't have continued with their dinner....and then I woke up!

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When the explosion happened, Justin was trying to find the place where we sign up for the soda and adult beverage cards on the ship, the pursor's office. It seems pretty real, especially when I took an "elevator" that ran horizontally instead of vertically!?!? The ship's Cruise Directors always tell the joke about the passenger looking for the elevator that runs from front to back on the ship-- this would be me!

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Dinner last night was lovely, with Matt serving as our personal chef. We had to wait our turn, though, as he was in high demand. Paul, Joan, Pam, Martie, Justin, Jesse, and Raymond ate dinner with me. Matt put on a good show, had the boys laughing pretty good, even Paul was chuckling. Afterwards, Martie and I sat on the bench outside to chat, when who pulled into the parking lot but Dee! She had Caesar Augustus, Julie's Italian greyhound, with her, and had planned on going in to do some work. Instead, we chatted on the bench, which she said was more fun than working!

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Oops, just upset Lynx by throwing my soda can into the trash....sorry, Lynx! Go back and lay down...quit looking so wounded!

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Dee told us about a recent women's retreat she'd been at, about the fun and interesting topics discussed and the great fellowship. Her group, or soon-to-be group, has a tablecloth and 8 napkins, and starting this weekend, they are going to do the "Traveling Pants" theory using the tablecloth and napkins. Isn't that neat? She's starting with a dinner at her house, then the next lady takes the tablecloth and napkins to her house, hosts a group, passes it on, and so forth. Wow! This is so neat. The goal would be to invite some new people to participate, to expand the circle that uses the tablecloth and napkins. Mom gave me a cookie plate that is supposed to be used that way--take cookies somewhere and leave the plate, it gets passed on and might come back to me, might not!

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Oh, the joy! I just heard my wind chimes singing from the river room. The breeze is delightful, at one point noisily closing my kitchen door. I've propped it open with a bag of potting soil so the breeze has no restrictions now. One set of chimes is supposed to play Pachelbell's "Canon in D" but my ear can't pick it out. I guess I love the idea more than I need to hear the melody. Because Timmy wouldn't nap over at the daycare center next door, I'd pick him at noon and take him back to work with me. He was supposed to sleep in his playpen in my darkened office, sometimes needing my persuading, while listening to the strains of "Canon in D" playing over the sounds of birds chirping, water flowing, calming noises. I took a nap every day just listening to it. Why do kids fight that nap so hard???? If we'd ever hear it playing in a store or on the radio, he'd immediately start chanting, "No nap! No nap!" This is why I bought the chimes, to remember his chant.

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I had to chuckle at Justin last night. He rode with Jesse as far as Pam's house (Pam is Jesse's mom) and they all rode together to Koko's. He came up and gave me a big hug when they arrived. I looked at his shorts and asked, "What happened to your shorts?" They looked as though they'd been dragged under a car with him wearing them. He said they were his new American Eagle shorts and were supposed to look this way. Am I getting old or what? I was so surprised he had them on, Number 1, and that I paid "good" money for them, Number 2! Instead of looking fashionable to me, the shorts looked like those an urban outdoorsman with bladder control problems might wear. I should have asked him where his "will work for food" sign was! Of course, overall, he looked nice, I'd just not seen these shorts before, only paid for them!

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Carol D. has asked me to send some photos taken of the construction of the classroom building so must get at this job now. They will be included in the Time Capsule and they want to work on this today. Better get moving. I am also having a room-to-room search here for the videotape of the construction of the classroom building. I can't find it!!! Pastor looked around his office and home for it, as I thought I'd sent it with him for his amusement, but it didn't show up there. Nuts! The search begins--again!

A few photos from my trips

Pete Prange and Baby Grace sitting on sofa in Morton Grove, IL

Dustin and Lori Schipper, my Holmen, WI sister and son, having morning coffee

This would be me, standing with "Starry Night". Taken withut a flash, which makes me quite yellow!

Manny and Gabe sitting on a chair at Mom's house in Manitowoc

Lori on the bus as we prepare for our trip to the Twin Cities (love that jacket!!!)

My Justin's "before" picture.....

My Justin's "after" picture... taken with camera phone, light from window gives him "holy" appearance!

I am ruined, ruined this morning....

...and it's my own doing. I knew it was going to be this way but I did nothing to prevent it!

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It all started last evening, first attending "Bible Bites" class at 6:30 pm, seeing some folks again after several weeks of being away, which is lovely, of course. That flowed immediately into choir rehearsal, which I've missed greatly. We had a couple songs to practice, one for this Sunday, a rousing rendition of The Doxology including viola and piano refrains. Very nice, and not too difficult with only one rehearsal for me.

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But, then, pulling out the next piece, which we are singing Mother's Day with the preschool and Sunday school children--brace yourselves--"I Am Jesus' Little Lamb"!!! All I could say was, "You're killing me here, killing me!" I can imagine that some of you may released an audible "oh, no!" or something when you read that, knowing that we just sang that song at First German on Good Shepherd Sunday, when all in our pew wept. Can you believe it? First, "Jerusalem, the Golden", and now this! The first time through, we were sitting, and Kristi was in front of me. I just sort of lost it when singing the lines "and when my short life is ended...." and she reached back and held my hand. Our newest member, Kathy B., must think I'm a loon, boo hooing all the time....

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It got better the second time through, with that last verse, which is particularly touching to me, sung with the congregation. No one will even notice if I drop out. That is our finale for the season, and what a finish!

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The hymns we chose for Timmy's funeral were important, certainly not random selections, as they convey the message of faith, hope, trust, and the love our Savior has for us. I wouldn't change a one, but that doesn't make them any easier to sing now. Justin commented on the way home from the airport the other night that now would be the age when Timmy became "cool". Twelve is cool? Okay...if he thinks so. I guess what Justin was going for was he'd be leaving childhood and going into teenage years, starting confirmation class, and so on. Believe me, he's much, much better off in the Lord's arms than here on earth being cool, but my heart still hurts, you know?

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Oh, but wait, I'm not finished yet! I decided to not go back to work after getting home but instead turned on the TV in the family room. As soon as I did, the DVR reported it was full and that I needed to watch some of those shows first. Bossy little thing! Scanning the programs saved, I found several episodes of "NYPD Blue" to watch. My mistake...ended up watching four in rapid succession, spending the next four hours boo hooing again! These were some that I'd never seen before so it was all new to me.

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The first one has Bobbie and Diane married and expecting a baby. Suddenly she felt sick and went home, and Bobbie found her on the bed much later, sobbing, that she'd lost the baby. She kept apologizing to him for losing the baby, and was inconsolable. He didn't know what to do and she asked him to leave her by herself awhile. Bobbie had to go back to the squad and tell Andy that the baby was lost. Andy had a son, a recruit cop, that was killed in the line of duty recently so could identify.

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The next three covered the progression of a breathing problem Bobbie had been having, getting worse and worse. He'd been to the dentist and his gum was knicked a bit, plus later got cut with a knife making an arrest. They never did say exactly how these events played in, but he had an infection around his heart and he was gasping for every breath. Well, I was a goner myself by this time, seeing someone gasping for air just makes me think of.......

Bobbie did receive a heart transplant from a brain-dead cop, a dedicated donor, it was called. But, it didn't work and the rest of the last episode was him dying and his loved ones and partner standing by him. Andy leaned over and kissed Bobbie's forehead, promising that he'll take care of Diane for him. Oh, man....

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He sort of goes in and out, talking to his old mentor, a boxer named Patsy (no wonder he fought!), who supposedly was in heaven waiting for him. Toward the end Bobbie was talking with Patsy, who was sort of introducing him to others already there. Now, here's the clincher--Bobbie asks if he can see his son for a little while, and a little guy, about 5 years old and cute as a button, walks up and takes Bobbie's hand. Then the scene shows Bobbie in the hospital bed, smiling, and he tells Diane that he saw their little boy....Forget it, no sleep for me, not one single wink all night long. I can repeat everything that came on TV from when I went to bed to when my phone alarm went off at 6:45 a.m. My eyes look like heck, I feel like heck, and now I'm off to the dentist......I hope I don't get knicked!

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p.s. I remembered a bit later that after Bobbie received the last rites from the priest, he whispers that he loves God, loves Jesus....I love the witness, enough if no one else took heed. After all, it is only a TV show, but maybe, just maybe.....

Oh, it's great to be home again!

Even though the elevator is still out, home is awesome! Justin picked me up at the airport last night and it was quite wonderful to see him! He looked different with his hair cut, but not terribly so. As the plane was coming into Jacksonville, I could see the lovely moon, orange in color, making me wonder how it would look reflected in the river. Of course, the moon was gorgeous from my balcony, although it had become more white than orange by the time we got home.

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We had to lug the luggage (is that where the name came from??) up the stairs, with Justin doing a better job of lugging than I did! But, we made it, hopefully without waking the entire complex in the process. Immediately the cheese was unloaded and what didn't go with Justin went into my empty fridge. He was glad to get the Havarti cheese, claiming he needs to make some hamburgers soon to use the cheese on. Doesn't that sound delicious?

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Justin and I sat and chatted for a long while after getting things settled here. He had lots to say and I fought my exhaustion as long as I could, not wanting to interrupt him. Even though we spoke often during my absence, there was still so much to talk about. He's quite excited about the plans at Victory to open a VPK program and their attempts to pay down the mortgage. I asked him if he considered transferring his membership over there so that he'd get a pack of envelopes. I love his enthusiasm! This was a great move for him in many ways!

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Just now I heard a heron honking outside, the sound coming in loud and clear through the opened patio doors. There is no prediction of rain forecast so it's safe to sleep with the doors open. Just like in MN or WI where they keep windows open in the winter (or April!), I can keep mine open at night now. It was a lovely day today, temps around mid-70's and sunny.

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Everyone is asking me about my trip, what the weather was like, what I did to pass the time. It's hard to remember all the things I did while gone, but the highlights would be spending time with the family, especially the boys; the LWMS Rally; visiting the Prange's; and later, the Schrimpfs. I have to re-read my own blog to remember all that I did----oops! My other big things were spending time with Judy R. in MN; going to Mini-apples with Lori, Lynn and the church ladies; cropping and having dinner with Linda (and 3 lunches!!)....I could go on and on, all of the events special in their own ways. Hanging out with my sisters and Mama, visiting with Dolly and watching a movie with her, plus climbing up and down steps in my spare time.........

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My report also includes the crazy weather I experienced, starting with the "freezing fog" that I encountered upon my arrival, the sharp snowflakes that hurt my eye and ear, the freezing temperatures, thunder storms, and finally, to top it all off, an earthquake!!!! There was so much fun and enjoyment to be had, whether running the stores, dining, or simply sitting around the house. It would be so very non-productive to do that at my own home, but as a guest in someone else's, it's cool once in awhile!

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Today I ventured down the stairs to see my friends at Great Hang Ups, off to the beauty shop, pick up some groceries, and then to dinner with some church friends before heading over to Bible study. I carried up only a few items for tonight, knowing that Justin will be here tomorrow to bring up the rest for me. His reward will be a case of Diet Coke if he wants it. That's why it's called "Coke Rewards"!

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Trying to resume to "normal" sleep pattern and adjust to the time change, I will be heading to bed soon. I thought perhaps I'd see the moon come up but so far there's no sight of it. I keep banging my head as I crane to see if it's peeking at me. Who'd have thought that watching for the moon could prove so painful? Or that I'd be so slow to learn???

My departure day has arrived

"All my bags are packed, they're ready to go; I'm standing here outside the door, I hate to wake you up to say good-bye..." You know the song, I'm leaving on a jet plane, or whatever vessel they substitute to get me back to Florida tonight.

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Thank you to those who have kept up with me through the blog, and I do apologize for not being able to post everyday, I missed it, too! Mom's computer is on a dial-up system which uses her home telephone, her only phone, so it wasn't always convenient to spend time on the computer--for her or for me!

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At first we'd arranged for Judy J. to collect me from the airport but in speaking with Justin this a.m., he's decided to come for me after all, since my bags need to be taken upstairs. It's not convenient for him to come Tuesday, as he has classes. He'll have to carry the stuff up the stairs...oh, brother!

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I'll give Judy a call later to say thanks but no thanks for the lift. She's a doll for offering to come out so late at night like that! Justin is re-stocking the soda supply and is getting some milk for me, too. He pretty well cleaned out the pantry and kitchen cabinets, half-starved with his "meal-ticket" gone for a month! He said he left my cereal so I'll have that much to eat, plus some popcorn. I am certain the Ming Moon man does not need the elevator so that's another meal option.

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I can't tell you how excited I am to see my Justin again, hoping I recognize him without all his hair. He had a busy weekend, I heard, so am anxious to hear how that all went for him. This a.m. I am dropping off a nice, big piece of poppyseed torte for my sister-in-law, Sharon, who stays in a group home. I hope I find her in, but chances are, she's at work. I'll leave it for her dinner and the staff will be sure to tell her who its from. Then its off to the cheese factory to stock up on string cheese and curds for myself and others in Florida. Justin, of course, has his mouth all set for some curds, which I've been enjoying since arriving here. Cheese curds will be my donation to the special meal at church on Sunday, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary as a congregation. I hope everyone knows what it is, and won't just walk away from that dish of fresh curds! Exotic, ethnic foods....

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I have a video tape taken as the former classroom building was going up. It is my plan to have that made into a continual loop so it can play during the meal portion of the celebration. Many of the people working on the original building are now working on the new building, so that's pretty neat! Sadly, some of the more prominent ones are no longer part of the congregation..

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If I can't get that editing accomplished, I'll simply show the video the way it is, but must warn people they might get woozy as the man doing the filming was not adept with the zoom and even carried the camera around as he walked, not turning it off in between. Lots of sidewalk and shoe footage!

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Sunday we'll also be opening the Time Capsule found in the wall of the "old" building, which is why I wish to show the video tape. I am excited to see what's in the box, built by former members, the Koren's. We are putting a new box in the wall and stuff is being gathered to put into that Time Capsule, for posterity. An emotional time for me, happy, but yet, reflective, thinking about all that's happened since 1991. Wow!

My newest great-nephew!

Finally! I got to meet the newest member of my family--Bryson David Schrimpf. Is he the sweetest thing or what??? I got to hold him on my lap yesterday afternoon but he was not crazy about that idea at all! He liked me much better from a safe distance, and on his father's lap instead of mine!

*

Our directions from mapquest were printed in reverse order for some reason, so Lynn tried to navigate us to their house trying to remember that everything would be backwards. We did fine until it came to splitting off at the freeway, when we went right rather than left. Oops! We had to turn around and head back south, retracing some of our steps, even going so far as to drive on a section of road marked "closed"--we had nothing to lose! We'd gotten a map before turning around which Lynn ably used to get us "on the right track", as Timmy used to say. Jamie also helped us as we got closer to his house. Thank heaven for cell phones!

*

Jamie shares a house with his fiance, Hannah, her son, Hunter, and their child, Bryson. Both of the boys were baptized at First German last fall, praise be to God! Hannah and Jamie both work handling TTY calls at a Center nearby, with family members watching the children for them. Jamie just had three wisdom teeth removed and was a bit tender yet, but managed to enjoy some French onion soup and mashed pototoes when we all went to lunch. Poor thing! But, Jamie always was a soup eater, from little boy on.

*

From less than two weeks old, (I was his mom's labor coach!) my husband and I had the great pleasure of his company much of the time. I had no children of my own yet so truly enjoyed this opportunity. Jill worked as a waitress during the day and also served in the Army Reserve, which kept her quite, quite busy. Her husband worked construction and wasn't too keen on taking care of a little one by himself. We worked from home so it was convenient to keep Jamie during the days, and the nights that we got him. He even had his own room in our house, and would spend endless hours playing with a ball, any kind of ball. He still is a baseball nut! Yesterday, little Bryson entertained himself with a ball of every size, too. Had a bit of trouble with the handling thereof, but still wanted a ball! He is barely six months old, so has an excuse yet.

*

I could go on and on about our lives and times with Jamie, some of the best in my life, and I hope, his, too. Until I had a little one myself, it wouldn't have been possible to love him any more than we did. The sun rose and set....Lisa had been our only niece/nephew for 12 years before Jamie came along and I think she was cool with having some of the fawning diverted to him for a change. Now we fawn over her little guys, Gabe and Manny. That's another story!

*

Lynn and I spent a few hours with Jamie and his family before deciding to head back home. Jamie gave us some written directions for the way home (about three hours or so) which proved to be quite wonderful for us. All in all, it was a whole lot of driving, some extra of course, but still great to meet Bryson and make his acquaintance, as well Hunter, who is two. Busy, busy, busy! That is why children are given to the young!!!

The party is over--well, nearly

This afternoon I opened my e-mail to see a lovely update from my neighbor, the fella stuck with the job of "overseeing" the elevator replacement. While I appreciate greatly the responsibility he's taken on, I feel very badly for him having to deal with us second-story and above folks! According to Jeff, the work should be completed by Tuesday or Wednesday, inspected on Thursday, and fully operational by Friday...I knew it, I just knew it!!! Justin will have to be certain my fridge is amply stocked, and yes, maybe even put some food in there for me. If memory serves there were a couple twelve packs of diet Coke in the fridge when I left...I hope there still are!

*

Having no elevator might be just what I need to keep me at my computer, getting the FlockTalk ready for press, instead of going around visiting people. Thursday night I am expected to join some friends for dinner at Koko's (I hope they're still open with me being gone so long!!).

*

Judy J. is collecting me from the airport late Monday night and I'll only carry my smaller bag upstairs so I can get the cheese and such refrigerated as soon as possible. Also bring my toiletries and the things absolutely necessary for overnight, and worry about the large suitcase the next day. I hope my glass pieces make it home okay, or they will end up as "glass pieces"!! Wouldn't that be tragic!?!

*

My dear friend and massage therapist, Carol, has sent me note, thanking me for referring more of my friends to her; therefore, my next treatment is on the house. Lovely! This is truly something to look forward to!

*

Well, it's a sad day for me, having to say "farewell" to my loved ones here in Manty. Hugs were shared with both dear pastors after worship and Bible study, plus good wishes "until we meet again". Many of my family went to eat lunch at the China Buffet, including Linda J., Mom's "adopted" daughter. Mom treated us all which was a very nice thing for her to do. Of course, the boys were absolutely adorable, both well behaved in church and the restaurant. I only got to see Noah once, though, but I'll take what I can get. He'll have his fill of me in August when they come down to stay with me. Something else for me to get excited about!

*

Jill is coming over in a bit to play a game of Scrabble with Mom and me, so this posting will be abbreviated. Sorry 'bout that, but different words are luring me!

*

Later!

There is that crazy moon!

The moon was struggling to break free of the clouds on my way back from Green Bay tonight, finally showing its full face to me as I drove down Washington Street. Oh, how I wish I was looking at it on my river, but, alas....a few more days until I get home and then it will no longer be full. The lake simply doesn't offer the reflection that the smooth river does!

*

Dinner with Harv, Barb and Kevin was delightful as I once again was able to enjoy a perch plate, wishing I'd ordered the full portion rather than the half! Mmm, delicious! They wanted to take me to a new place rather than re-visit my usual favorite, Mackinaw's. Now I'll have a new favorite place when I return to Green Bay!

*

Kevin and I enjoyed a lively conversation about "Across the Universe" and other music topics, trying not to exclude H and B from the discussion. He said he took my advice about it, and now owns the extended version of "Across...". You're welcome! I asked him if he cried during the part where the little boy is lying in a coffin, and he said he didn't. Of course he'd say that--what big man wants to admit this sort of thing? Justin didn't mind sharing with his mama but wouldn't tell another guy it choked him up, right?

*

Our visit continued back at their house for some time before Harvey had to go to bed. He has to get up well before dawn to deliver bread in the area, so it's still warm when it hits the shelves--well, almost.

*

Yesterday was a fantastic one, too! Mom and I drove down to see the Prange's in Morton Grove, IL. Known for my skills at map following, I suddenly second-guessed myself and thought I went the wrong way at one point. We exited and I found a restaurant, a diner-style, in which to ask for help. Here I was "on the right track" all along, we were nearly there! Mom was getting quite nervous but I felt as though I could trust the directions given me by the waitress (totally disregarding the info from the three gentlemen that tried to help!) and we found our way to Morton Grove. When we drove past the hotel we'd all stayed in when visiting King Tut and Prange's, I knew we were okay!

*

Pete was leaving the back door open for us, as they were in Bible study. Mom and I let ourselves in and relaxed until they came "home". Lucas came running right up to me and hugged me, remembering my name this time! Even gave a squeeze to Grandma K, whom he's not seen in over a year. Such a sweetheart! Baby Grace is getting so big, too, pulling herself up to standing and sporting a couple teeth on the bottom front which weren't there in January! Of course, Pete and Tarren were wonderful, too, but one always thinks of the kids first!

*

Today is Pete's birthday and I surprised him with a bag of his favorite mints, the kind given out at Olive Garden. Tarren's birthday is earlier in the month and I took her a lovely necklace made by Lori, perfect for her fine features. We went to lunch at an Italian eatery and then back to their house to chat.

*

While there, the mailman came so Pete scampered out to retrieve the mail. Sure enough, he got a couple birthday cards, including one from a member of Good Shepherd who never forgets his birthday! I heard from another member today that this other lady had been in the hospital so I called to find out how she was. The hospital visit was more ER in nature, researching a mysterious pain in her hip. She's home now, waiting for the medicine to make her better. I pray this happens soon!

*

Let's see--what happened on Wednesday? Can't think right now, but must have done something fantastic. Oh, I know!!! I spent the first part of the day with Lisa and Manny, meeting them for breakfast at the wonderful bakery in Sheboygan. Mom wanted some of their 6 grain bread and I got some extra treats for our car ride to Morton Grove, too. Manny is so darn precious, I can barely take my eyes off of him! Gabe was in pre-pre-school and we were going to pick him up at 2:30. After breakfast we went shopping and then to lunch at Chili's. Guess what--I ran into someone I knew, down in Sheboygan! Love it! Also, at the bakery, a lady came up to me and said she remembered me from the Rally the day before...go figure!

*

Mom and I had supper at Lynn's and then came back home for a quiet evening. Since we had to get up early it was wise to just hang out before our big car ride to Prange's!

*

This a.m. I spoke with Julia from Great Hang Ups (man, I miss them!!) and she told that my acrylic creation was juried into the 3-D show at Village Gallery. This just blows me away! Although it did not win a cash prize, the fact that it made it past the Judge is payment enough! The next best thing will be to have a buyer for it! Wouldn't that just be the icing on the cake?!?!?!

*

My mail has been forwarded to Mom's, and, to her dismay, much of the mail in her box is mine! One day this past week I received a card from Carol, the massage therapist, thanking me for sending some more of my friends her way. My next therapy treatment is "complimentary". Nice! On the downside, my neighbor told me the elevator is expected to be finished by Wednesday or so...what???? I am coming back on Monday, if you don't mind. Can you believe it? Jeff said the Contractor ran into some problems, and I told him I understood about contractors, can't be helped. I even convinced myself that it was okay!

Another fantastic day in the motherland!

Ooooh, what a joyous day today! I can't wait to tell you about it!!

*

The morning began early for me as I was "expected" at church by 8:15 a.m. to help register attendees of the LWMS Rally hosted by First German. My seat was between my dear friend, Linda, and Alice, a lady I've known nearly all my life. Alice and I worked together and also sang soprano in the choir when I still belonged. I was definitely in my element, enjoying the process of greeting and such at the table with two such lovely ladies!!!

*

After a certain point, the pastor's wife, Ellen, came to ask if I'd hand out service folders at the door so off I went to do that task. Another great job! There were a number of men helping out with the Rally, one of whom was a classmate from grade school through MLHS, Steve. He gave me a quick hug and then had to leave to get his suit on, in case they needed another usher for communion. Never did come back and I would have liked to chat with him. Oh well....maybe Sunday we'll have a chance to catch up with each other.

*

The children from the day school performed their tone chime song as well as the anthem they'd sung on Sunday, again doing a great job. What a blessing a Lutheran grade school is! Expensive to operate? Yes. Worth the cost? Every penny, equipping these souls with the armor of God...can't put a dollar value on that!

*

The first presenter showed slides and lectured on our missions in India. It was heart-wrenching to view the horrendous living conditions these people have, the great poverty, homeless/parentless children, and heathen worship practices. BUT, it was heart-warming to hear how much these believers appreciate their Savior, rejoicing in His saving work, and how eager they are to be in His house for worship! Oh, for a minute amount of their enthusiasm and faith in these most dire living conditions!

*

The afternoon presenter has served our mission in Indonesia, again an area bereft of the living Word. The majority of the nations making up Indochina are Hindu or some similar eastern religion, and many, many Muslims, who like to make trouble for the Christians. In spite of the aggression and persecution our missions face there, those converts are hungry for the Word and full of zeal to learn more and more. Again, I couldn't help but feel a bit sad when I think about what lengths and risks these people go to worship and receive instruction, while our pews often remain empty....

I know, I know, we have to appreciate the "one who returned" but can't help asking the question: "but where are the nine?" (Luke 17:17)

*

Of course, the luncheon was wonderful, served at our table so no long lines or the pushing and shoving that goes on at these events. That was quite nice, the food delicious, and the company charming. Some of the grade school children made the place mats, their teacher being a school friend of our pastor's wife in Jacksonville. I always extend greetings back and forth from Karen to Lynn. Today Karen said she hears more from me than she does Lynn, saying it's always too late at night when she thinks to call her. I suggested e-mail, so perhaps she'll press that into service. It's never too early or too late to send e-mail!

*

Once home at the end of the Rally, I decided to go visit my friend, Dolly, so we could watch "Under the Tuscan Sun" together. She is averse, or rather, disinterested in traveling, so I decided to bring Italy to her! She loved the movie, too, and now has it in her collection to watch again and again. I promised to send her actual photos of the areas we saw in the movie, especially the fields of sunflowers and the piazza in Florence. This will most likely be our last time this visit to be face to face so said our farewells, until we meet again. We'll be back at CHRISTmas but can't say if the time will allow for a visit since that season is so busy for everyone. The hugs will have to hold us for a while.

*

My niece is celebrating the end of tax season and tomorrow we head off for some breakfast and shopping, until Gabe gets done with his preschool class. Next fall he starts the real thing, this class is simply to prepare him for preschool. Hhhmmm, didn't it used to be that Kindergarten prepared one for grade school? Now we have a pre-preschool to get us ready for preschool, which gets us ready for Kindergarten! No wonder I'm in the mess I'm in--started right in with Kindergarten!

*

Another fantastic day, looking forward to nice long sleep. I miss my Justin terribly! 'Nite all!!

The snow has finally stopped!

Saturday was a cold, wintery day here in WI, including blowing snow and grey skies. Almost too unbelievable to be true, but nevertheless, I had sharp flakes bombarding me between the shops and the car when shopping. Will it never end??

Judy J. let me know that my houseguests have left the condo and are heading back to MI. She washed the sheets and dried them on the clothesline, and then re-made the beds for me. Wow, that is a service I wasn’t expecting. I am just glad that someone could make use of my place while vacant, and didn’t mind running the stairs a couple times each day. She said her son did mention the stairs being rough on him, and he works out six times a week! Guess he has a football knee that bothers him periodically, aggravated by my stairs.

My sisters, Mom and I have had a good time: shopping, dining, and hanging out. Last night we celebrated Jill’s birthday by going to Sheboygan for dinner at the Highland House restaurant on the river. Lovely setting, and great company. Lisa had to work all day Saturday, getting the tax season out of the way for another year, and is looking forward to easing off her hours at the office. Of course, the boys were darling and ate a good supper for their parents. I gave them a fun ball that was sort of a balloon and sort of a playball with fringes, and it kept them busy wwaayy too late for them last night. Oops! Who knew?

Kerry was here this weekend and that was fun, too. Alayna, Kerry, and I watched “Under the Tuscan Sun” last night, and they loved it, except that Kerry fell asleep right at the end. She caught up with the ending this afternoon. We had a regular dormitory here on the weekends that I am here with Kerry, Alayna, and Mom—people sleeping all over the place. I leapt from bed this a.m. thinking it was Eastern time, got mixed up yet, and thought I had only 15 minutes to get dressed for church. What a relief to know I had an hour plus to get ready.

It was Good Shepherd Sunday and the school children treated us with a song on the tone chimes before worship began, and then the older grade school kids sang an anthem in front of church. Very nice, and so talented with those tone chimes! I found the director after church and complimented him on the work he does with the kids. No Good Shepherd Sunday is complete without singing “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb” and no one in our row had a dry eye or could squeak out the verses. One of the funeral hymns again, a perfect message, but others have to sing it for us, for me at least. Jill said she sings it to her grandsons which is the most wonderful blessing she can give to them. Let them know that Jesus loves them, even calls them by their names!

Plans are yet being made for the rest of the week, as my time here winds down. I am seriously reconsidering venturing back to Lori’s and then driving back to MKE for my flight home. I just don’t know if time and such will allow. Once I hear from the Prange’s I’ll make a final decision on this trip.

This afternoon, after Lisa left with the boys, I went out to my father-in-law’s house to help go through some boxes and such in the basement. Not my most favorite place to be, as that basement only lets me think about mice, my top-most phobia, but I held up nicely, even though Harvey saw fit to tease me with curious looking boxes and such. The worst thing we found, I believe, was a barrel of corn cobs that Arno had put away to feed the squirrels. Oh, the potential for vermin was high! Fortunately nothing moved in the barrel and with some persuasion Arno agreed that the boys could take it out of the basement. He was reluctant, though, to throw it out. I can’t say for sure what happened to it once it left the basement, so don’t call me to testify in court!!!

Time to go rest and watch TV with Mom the balance of the evening. My back is tired from working over the makeshift table in the basement, and being tense with anxiety about perhaps seeing a mouse! What a big baby I am!

....and more steps yet!!!

Today is wash day at Grandma K’s house. I woke to the sound of thunder bouncing off the walls of my hometown. What crazy weather we’ve been having! Good thing I don’t hang my clothes on the wash line to dry because it might be late August before I’d get them back! Rain, slushy rain, cold temps, pale skies….yes, I can really see the appeal of living here! Like Seattle, only colder.

Mom’s laundry facility is on the second level of her apartment building, only about 8 or 9 steps up, but I am still hiking up and down stairs on this vacation. How funny is that? Lori’s house is a split-level so that was nothing but up and down, down and up to get anywhere. I can’t help but chuckle about this situation. Certainly I am better off being here than in Florida because of all the great folks and fun, other than the weather, that is.

Since Mom isn’t the only tenant in the building, we sort of take turns accessing the washing machines and dryers, a roll of the dice to find them not in use. I struck out on my first attempt this a.m., finding only one machine available, but when returning to move the clothes to the dryer, found two open for washing. Victory! Life’s small pleasures, right?

Yesterday morning, Mom took me to Perkins’s for potato pancakes and then we went off delivering service folders and other mailbox materials. Mom is on the committee at church that is reaching out to those seldom seen, making personal connection with folks by delivering the contents of their overloaded boxes. We were fortunate to find one person at home but had to leave the other two deliveries at their door, as no one was home. Mission accomplished, though, as all her deliveries were made!

The afternoon was spent with my dear friend, Linda, as we had a wonderful lunch at the Court House Pub just down from church. Tom, her hubby, joined us there but then had to return to work while the two of us went to her house to crop. I am working on a heritage album for my mother-in-law, Lucile, who died in August last year, and Linda just returned from a cruise so she has projects waiting for her as well. All of sudden we had to fly back up her steps from the craft room and off to Two Rivers for a manicure appointment she had! Again, more stairs..te, he, he! The lady who does the nails works from her basement salon so we had to climb down and then back up outdoor steps in the rain. I can’t help but chuckle about this, guys!

Once we got back to Linda’s house, we went back downstairs to work some more until Tom came home to bbq some brats and burgers—in the rain! Poor guy! Oh, what a delicious treat it was to have a home-cooked brat, and to be with my good friends while doing so! After supper we went down again to the craft room to “work”, making great strides in our projects. Linda complimented me by saying she was “influenced” by my pages, found them to be interesting and enlightening. It’s often helpful to work with someone else, have another person to bounce ideas off of and so on. We two did a lot of bouncing last night, let me tell you!

Warm friends, lasting embraces

This morning I woke up in the guest room of my dear friend, Judy's, home.  It was warm and snuggly under the covers on the futon, made up with a Company Store couch potato as the mattress pad.  Mmmmm, nice and comfy.  Judy set up a clock radio that I listened to while drifting off to sleep, to the sounds of NPR, because I didn't want to change the station and mess it up for her.  It was okay, soothing music, operatic in nature.  Judy has lived in the north all her life and finds 61 degrees to be quite comfortable for sleeping...ahem, ahem....So glad she made a nice warm nest for me to snuggle into for my "big nap", as Timmy used to call it. Peaceful rest was much appreciated after a fun day with Judy!

I arrived only a half hour late as I once again got turned around trying to find Winona...Judy was patiently waiting for me at the YMCA, and it was AWESOME to see her. I followed her back to their house where we chatted, looked at photos, just talked and talked in her sun room, with the fireplace going.  Bliss, absolute bliss!  She'd made an alpaca wrap which she put on me to help with the chills (it's only 40 here!).  Oh, what a fantastic day we spent, eating lunch at Benos and shopping in the attached gift shop. Earlier that morning I had dreamed about being in a glass shop and found myself livin' a dream as I purchased some lovely glass pieces at Magnolia's!  

Judy had some rather interesting news to share:  her son-in-law, Ben, has received a Call to serve as Principal/Teacher and Parish Music Leader at St. Johns, Two Rivers!  Of course, it's too soon to have their decision, and she knows they MUST accept that Call. It's perfect for them and all that, but hates the thought of putting three more hours between them, as they are presently only an hour apart.  It's everything they want, since they are close friends with the J. Hahm's at F. G. and have extended family already in the area. This would be ideal when I go to visit Mom and get to see Judy at the same time, if we plan properly!  Prayers are appreciated to help Ben,Trisha and the Holy Spirit make the right decision!

Judy had to go about her day today so I returned to Lori's this morning, finding only Lynn and the cats at home.  Lori was at work and Lynn saw me coming on the big road so was ready for me.  For some reason, I've been so sleepy today and the girls think its because of the weather being gloomy and dreary.  Good nap skies and temps!  We went to meet Lori for lunch at Features Restaurant, near Festival Foods.  Oh, it was yummy!  I had a cheeseburger and onion tangles followed by a slice of sour cream raisin pie.  Of course, I couldn't finish the sandwich or the pie, but Lori rescued the pie from being dumped in the garbage disposal!  Couldn't help but think of Fran, having sour cream pie!

From there we went to Lori's work to see her church and office, and meet some of her co-workers.  We had some good laughs as we met up with some of the gang that were on the bus trip this weekend.  She had some great resources in her office and I poured over a few things that looked interesting.  I am not above "borrowing" ideas from other churches to incorporate at my church, always harvesting new and fresh ideas to help extend the Kingdom!

I spoke with Julia today, calling her just as she was about to dial my number!  That is tooooo cool, love when that happens!  She was going to tell me that Mike, her spouse, dropped off my entry for the 3-D show at Village Gallery for me today, and since I hadn't named the piece, she did it for me.  She aptly called it "A New Day" which is appropriate since it's my first "relief" piece as well as it being done in acrylic.  I only hope I make the show, and not get juried out...I am braced in case that happens--gulp!  Julia also asked about Justin, wondering how he's getting along without his mama--a.k.a. "meal ticket"! He told me he's doing fine, helping himself to some goodies from the pantry, stuff I didn't even realize I had!  Recycling at its best!

I am missing my friends and church family, hoping all is going along nicely in my absence. Talked to Paul briefly on Sunday but didn't discuss the special meeting held to decide about our mortgage size and gather opinions about the color pallets for the building and classrooms.  Perhaps Sue was there to "influence" folks toward the color pallets we liked the best!  You know, folks, it's all about me!