Return to 'normal'

Today I had fits of activity followed by times of rest as I try to get settled back into my routine here at home. I got the washer busy with a few loads of clothes used on my trip to WI, some which mainly were mangled from being shoved in the suitcase. Others needed to be freshened up before being hung back in the closet. What my former spouse used to refer as 'partially worn' garments. My tops don't go in the dryer, however, so some my furniture is draped with clothes to air dry them. That's what you do when no wash lines are available or something must dry flat. I hope no one comes to the door!

Another reason I am trying to get the suitcase dealt with is I have a young lady coming on Friday to clean my bedroom so I want nothing to impede her progress. I had to laugh last night as I unzipped my luggage to grab the cheese curds out...immediately papers poured out onto the floor. Justin said, "Here come your church bulletins..." He knows me so well!  Also there were Bible study sheets in that mess on the floor. (Now on my bed!) For some reason I need to keep them, for review or to share the Orders of Service with others, we shall see!

As I watched the Jaguar game, the 2nd half, as I was at Chili's for the first half (plus stopped at Winn Dixie on the way home), I put clothes on hangers or into drawers, and then rested. Then I bleached some dish cloths and my kitchen sink, yes, you read that right, and then rested. Flurry of activity-rest, flurry of activity-rest. I have a system!  During one of my rests the Jaguars managed to lose the game by three points. This is doubly sad because the kicker missed two points after scores and had a field goal blocked. This could have been a win. Oh, well....

Wesley had his first time serving as acolyte today, and he was understandably nervous. He is the last of the triplets to have his first time serving. I attempted to answer his questions regarding the Advent candles but thankfully his grandma/mentor arrived to help him out. He did great!  His mama took this photo as the pastor offered him more instruction. 

I know it sounds funny to have someone come to clean just one room but for those who have visited here, they know it's not an ordinary room. The bedroom itself is about 18'x18' with a wall of built-ins floor to ceiling, with tchotchkes and books, etc. My room is also my office so I have a desk, table, shredder, and other officie mess to work around. And then there is the bathroom/closet/dressing area, generously sized with more shelving, vanity, mirrors, sink, and potty to be cleaned besides my room's furniture and other pieces. She will be a busy girl for several hours!

Here I am with Carol at Esther's table in 2014

Saturday night as Justin drove us back from the airport after stopping at Long Horn for dinner, we started to hear a strange sound coming from the car. At first we thought something was rattling but nothing we touched or adjusted affected the noise. Made us VERY nervous! No lights lit up on the dash nor did the temperature go up on the engine. Once we got off the freeway and onto Hwy. 17, the noise ended. Afraid of it happening again and causing some damage, I decided to not drive over to Victory tonight for the Ladies' Advent service. I had so looked forward to it, but was too scared to venture out. The car worked okay for going to church and back this a.m., but that is going at lower speeds. Badly hated to disappoint my friend, Stephanie, and the others but she said she respected my decision. So, I am sad about missing it, because they present such a meaningful devotional service every year, besides the beautifully decorated tables and great company. Nuts!

So glad to be heading home

Once again writing from the plane. God bless Justin for fixing me up with these devices and introducing the features for me.  One thing he told me is that I have to get used not editing as I write which is extremely difficult for me to do. I don't like when the auto-fill feature tries to anticipate my words. Or when the spell-checker questions my choices, even if it is incorrect! 

Lynn and Mom drove me to the airport this early a.m.  It was clear and expected to be beautiful today. However, just outside of Sheboygan the roadways became icy and we saw an accident happen in front of us.  Needless to say, I am traumatized by it, my mouth as dry as a desert even yet. What happened is this: a car came onto the roadway from the ramp and spun around into the path of a large truck. The truck hit the car which ended up in the median. The truck fish-tailed and then tipped into its side, drivers side down. We were able to stop as were the others behind us, thankfully. The car driver ran up to the truck to render aid to the driver. I called 9-1-1 and reported the accident. As we sat there, I noticed fluid gushing from the underside of the truck. Yikes!  The car driver moved a large piece of debris from the lane to allow the cars to go past the overturned truck, and we decided to move on. I was scared it was going to explode. 

As we drove nervously along, I encouraged Lynn to exit at her first opportunity. She did that and we found a gas station with a store. We ladies used the restroom and I bought a Danish and some mints, thinking it only right to do so. I told the clerk what happened and she said she nearly fell on the ice crossing the road for the mail. 

After we sat awhile, the sun began to come up and hoped it would move us off of freezing. It did not.  I called the airline to rebook my departure to a later time which gave us wiggle room for getting me there on time.  For $75 they changed it for me and I only arrive two hours later than scheduled. 

As we drove south the roads improved so we could go faster.  Once they dropped me off and hugs and kisses shared, the ladies drove to Perkins nearby to have a coffee and snack. They needed to unwind and wait for the ice to melt further north. I got checked in, (bag not overweight!), zipped through security, got a bottle of soda, and went to my gate. Across the hall they were boarding my initial flight. I could have made it but just barely.  Way too close for my comfort. I was fine with going to Dallas instead of through Philly anyway!

I love this sign at the Milwaukee airport!  I am often discombobulated after going through security so here I could pull myself together again!!

Once in DFW some nice folks told me how to take the train system to my concourse and in no time I was there.  In the hallway near my gate I noticed people praying, a man and woman traveling, and a pilot!  I heard one of the men say, "Thank you, Pastor" but am not sure which one it was.  As they parted I said to the pilot, "That was lovely" as I overheard their prayers for safety and other blessings.  The pilot greeted me like he knew me, asked how I was doing, etc.  I told him of our experience this morning and how I couldn't swallow but was feeling better now that I found Auntie Anne's Pretzels. He laughed about that. He asked where I was going and I said to JAX. He told me he was my pilot and would get me safely to my destination.  So calming and peaceful a spirit he had. He asked my name but I didn't get his. Now I have it because he introduced himself once we boarded.

Gerald is my main man this late afternoon as I head toward home. Well, Gerald, and our Lord, who has blessed me today!  Can't wait to see my boy again, and later sleep in my own bed. Home, sweet home!

My last day in Manty

Today went by in a flurry!  I was up bright and early as a former school mate of mine asked me to go for coffee this morning.  Yes!, I can do that plus asked her to take me to Festival for the fresh cheese curds. My friend, Wendy, who works there, told me they are fresh on Friday mornings. Debbie picked me up and away we went to McDonalds for our visit. I had soda and she had a gourmet coffee with our hash browns.  Once finished she took me to the store where I grabbed five bags of fresh curds to take with me to FL.  Some people will be so happy to have them!

She dropped me off at mom's where Mom and I watched some TV. Each of us took a little rest as well. In the afternoon Linda picked me up and we met a friend of ours, Joanie, at Perkins for some pie.  Who says no to that?  I hadn't seen Joanie in decades, in person.  She reminded me that I sang for her wedding at First German 42 years ago.  Holy cow! 

Our time catching up was great fun, even the waitress got into it with us! Joanie just got back from a trip to Israel and it was fascinating to hear her stories. Joanie's mom and Tommy' s mom were step cousins, both refugees from Russia during the war. Both were wonderful ladies. 

Linda and her guests were going to eat perch somewhere so Linda dropped me off once again at mom's.  Tearful good byes were made there as I won't see Linda again for a long time. Or Joanie ever I bet!

Jill took my picture at The Charcoal Grille. Boy, I so badly need a haircut

Mom, Lynn, Jill, and I went to The Charcoal Grille for dinner. Mom and I shared a French dip sandwich which was just right for us both.  I shared onion straws with the table. Delicious! Jill ordered an appetizer of stuffed mushrooms and got a heaping plate of them. It was almost comical seeing that in front of her plus her meal. She took the majority home to have another time.  Lynn had fish and chips which was a huge portion so took most of hers home as well. What a good finish to my two weeks in Manty!  Good night, and good bye!

Getting ready to go home

Boy, time really does fly when you're having fun! I am getting stuff ready to throw into the suitcase to head back home. Just this a.m. my friend, Debbie, took me to Festival for the fresh-from-the-cow cheese curds which go back with me. We first went to McDonald's for a drink and hash browns before she took me to Festival. One more thing crossed off the list of to-dos before I leave Manty. Didn't get to Late's but that happens...too little time and too many meals at home!

Last night I made chicken 'n dumplings for dinner but I didn't partake. Mom, Lynn, and Jill said it was good so I trust them. I wanted to have the queso dip I made for enjoying during the Packer game. And I did enjoy it! More than watching the game, initially. Wow, what a wonderful ending to a dreadful game. Wow!

Yesterday morning Mom treated Lynn and me to a pedicure  at Sassy Nails. The tech did a good job on cleaning off my goofy great toes, having to get extra machinery used for the acrylic nails to clean off the whiteness on them. It was only the 2nd time I'd had that build-up, the first time the salon in Fleming Island claimed it was it was because I had polish on too long. Well, they turned around and put polish right back on. The tech yesterday said nail polish had nothing to do with it, that it was a calcium build-up or something. I was just happy they took care of it for me. 

From Sassy Nails we went to Festival so I could get my ingredients for making the queso dip and the other two ladies got whatever they needed.  I struck out getting the type of Velveeta cheese-food Justin uses to make the dip so I bought some in jars. Saved me from having to soften the block cheese in the microwave or on the stove. I would guess it's more expensive this way, but I just was determined to make it, and that's that!  

Lynn and I watched the game, which began rather sadly for the Packers and their fans. Oh my, the Lions were having a good time at the Packer's expense. I just don't know what's up with the team this season, and few people do seem to know what the problem is. The receivers can't catch and the running backs were not able to get anywhere. It was frustrating to watch and I nearly went to bed. So glad I decided to stay up and watch the end, the fantastic ending. The Packers won the same way the Jaguars did a few weeks ago, after the official time of play had expired. I was figuratively on the floor in amazement. Aaron Rodgers lofted a Hail Mary pass that was caught, which almost made me think of converting!!!  Wow- again!!! I just love watching football with Lynn, and this visit got to watch three games with her.  One of my favorite parts of the visit for me. Especially for me!  Today I am having pie with Linda and a friend, Joanie, looking forward to that, too!

Sunday reporting

This evening is a quiet one spent at home with Mom. I made dinner for us using leftovers from our feast, a casserole.  No matter what, we can't be rid of our food!  After dinner I got busy with organizing the freezer for Mom.  I stacked the frozen meals up in two rows and fit the rest of the foods in where there was room.  Hopefully Mom can read the labels so she knows what is what! 

This morning Mom, Lynn, Jill, and I went to church and then Bible study. We celebrated a New Year in our service, the first Sunday of the church year, Advent. For the Bible study we watched a video, "My Son, My Savior", put out by our Synod as an outreach tool. It was okay, and hopefully will be a blessing for the recipients. 

After church Lynn came back to Mom's house before she and I drove to Sheboygan to meet Noah and the boys for lunch.  It was such a nice time, enjoyed my conversation with Noah. The boys were sweet, too.  Our seat was next to the wall fireplace which was perfect for me. I could not get perch but did find brats on the menu.  Served on a Sheboygan hard roll, too, and came with waffle fries.  Yum, yum, yum!!!

On our ride back we took the lake shore route past Whistling Straits where the major golf tournament was held this summer. As we were getting closer to home, we saw something in the road but before she could slow down, Lynn drove over pieces of firewood which had fallen from a truck.  Clunk, clunk, it went as it bounced around under the car. Hopefully no harm will befall her undercarriage.  The truck pulled off and I got his license plate number in case something does happen.  I pray it does not. 

I took a few photos from the car window of the scenery along the way back. Some are of birch trees and the lake. I will post them when I get on my regular equipment. My stuff has been vexing me here but things are looking up. I am thankful for the connections I do have and am glad to have them. Rejoice!!!

More giving of thanks!

On Thursday I had the opportunity to worship at First German on the national ThanksGiving Day. Lynn sang with the choir while Jill, Danny, Mom, and I sat with the congregation. The church band accompanied many of the hymns and it was wonderful to hear them again. They were blessed to have young people 'home' from college to bolster the numbers of the choir and band. Adding the brass and percussion to the pipe organ on these hymns is so beautiful, loved it!

  

The sanctuary was decorated as well, including this table of bounty.

We went back to Mom's after church because it was too early to go down for the ThanksGiving lunch in the school gym. Lynn's friend, Bonnie, was joining our family at the table. She feared being able to find us in the crowd but was hardly a problem. The high school Federation was involved in this community outreach event and were expecting about 175 diners. There were other congregation members dining but not many besides us. The meal was good, and I truly loved my cherry cheese cake dessert. Even got a piece to go home with me!

It was a quiet rest of the afternoon until it was time for the football game. Sadly, the outcome  was disappointing as the Packers lost yet another game. Something is terribly wrong with them! Or, is the problem with me---spoiled by them usually winning??  I really like getting to watch Packer football with my sister! It was a good day overall, for which I am thankful!

It's all about connections

Not long ago I wrote about what will happen after my mom is gone regarding my visits and family connections. I think back to Timmy's funeral and Justin's first real exposure to my sister, Carol. After everything was over and the family was gone again, Justin commented to me, "I really like Carol---we should get to know her better." This was his own aunt and he didn't really know her. I've reminded her of that on occasion, the most recent time being Mom's 90th birthday celebration. Sadly, he wasn't here for that, having gone back to FL already. In the past decade since Timmy's funeral I think I've seen Carol probably 4-5 times. Not for my lack of trying....

Lynn, Jill, and I went shopping Monday and had lunch together.  It was great fun, though exhausting. While shopping I ran into a 'girl' from my old neighborhood who is married to a classmate of mine. He was gone deer hunting with family and she was hunting in the stores!  Kathy's brother lived next door to my mom in the years prior to Mom buying the duplex. Jill asked how her brother and his wife were doing and Kathy answered that she was sure they were fine but hadn't talked to them in a while. How can this be?  They live in the same town and yet don't communicate. Interesting. She explained that her husband and she spend time with their own family....Is that how it goes?

Tuesday Linda and I were leaving Bible study and talking with Kathy, the leader. She comes from a family that has remained connected.  They are together regularly, if not in person, then by phone or online.  She even lived in Malawi for a time and remained in touch.  Her parents are the same age as Mom so the day will come when this large family won't have their parents any longer.  I hope they will stay connected when that time comes.

My sister-in-law's parents, Harvey and Clara, who both  are now passed away, would get together weekly with their siblings who lived in the area to play cards and just hang out. Nieces and nephews came to see them in their apartment and later at the Home. Perhaps not every week but at least folks knew they had relatives, and the family knew what was going on in each other's lives. 

While I am here visiting my family I am also thinking about my friends and church family back in FL. And, of course, my boy. Last night I did FaceTime with him and he got to see his Grandma and his aunties, and they could see him. Mom loves that! He was able to show me the new slacks and shoes he got, plus the wax warmer for his room. His room smells now of pumpkin pie! He was getting ready for church, and on his way there he called me one more time to report about the giant full moon on the river. We could not yet see it here, as there is no view from Mom's apartment to the east. Tonight I will have to go out and look for it. During the football game? NO! Go Pack, go!