Sun afternoon

I have been away for awhile.  Thurs. was Jane's 19th birthday.  We spent the day together having lunch at the Olive Garden and then shopping at North Park.  Jane's braces broke while we were having lunch and we had a flat tire on the way home.   Not to worry, Jane took it all in stride on her birthday.  We ended the day with cake and ice cream here with Beth, Dan, Maggie and Michelle Kutunis.  

On Friday afternoon Max came over to spend the night.  We ate supper at Steak and Shake and ran into Olivia with her Grandma Phyllis.  We went to see the movie Ku Fung Panda and then to South Park to pick out a Webkinz.  He picked out a penquin and had a long time trying to decide on a name.  He finally came up with the name "ice cube"....very cute.  I did not feel well and we all went to bed at 10 p.m. 

Sat.  I stayed in all day.  Max and I made blueberry muffins and his Dad came to get him about 10 a.m. as he had a ball game.  

Today Sun. we went to church and then to Jake's ball game and got rained out!   Will it ever stop raining????  I did get to take my nap and now thinking of making something for dinner. 

Tomorrow starts another busy week.  Swimming on Mon.  Geneseo on Tues.  Star meeting Tues evening.  Wed and Thurs Jake will be here....wow that takes us up to the week-end again.  Have been thinking much about my brother.   I hope all is well.   His heart has had a lot of help over the years and stress is not what he needs now at his age.  More later....it is what it is.  

My classmates and myself are in the process of planning our 55th class reunion for next year.  At least 5 have died since we last met in 2004.  It will keep getting smaller until very few will be left.  Hmmmm...the circle of life.  

Love, 

Mom, Grandma,wife, friend, sister 

A beautiful day today

We have two nest of birdies that are just about ready to leave the nest.   It won't be too soon for me as they are ruining my flower. 

Walked 2 miles this a.m....washed my kitchen window and blind and curtain.   I was thinking as I was climbing up on the countertop....how many more years will I be able to do this. Hmmmm

Margie and Max brought me lunch today and then I slept for 2 hours!!!!  Oh my, I did not even hear Gary come home.  

Gary went to Max's ball game and I am going to a meeting. 

More tomorrow....Golden Girls meet in Geneseo park. 

fasting Mon.

Today was my physical.   The receptionist made my day by looking back and forth from the tube to me.   Finally I said are there more than one Pat Hansens?  She said no...I just thought I had the wrong person because your looks do not match the birth date.  Well, that was a good start to my day.  

My new Dr. Spengelmeyer is a lot more thorough than my old Dr.(but of course my old Dr. was just sued for malpractice)  She did a pap test, which I have not had in years....my old Dr. said I did not need one.  She ordered a xray of my shoulder which has been bothering me and also a bone density test, which I have never had. Hmmmmm   also she ordered a urine sample, which I have never had before.  We will see!!!  

I then went to Target to get some new pillows for our bed.   I finally managed to get downstairs and saw the pillows that Chris bought and wow ours look awful.  I think they need to be thrown away.  

Gary is working today, but I think I just heard him come in 2:45p.m.  We are going to dinner tonight with cousin Linda and Bob Sex.  (for Chris' benefit)  

I did get my nap in today....love it.   I can never get rid of that couch.   It is a keeper for sleeper. 

Okay....later, 

can't wait for Thurs. to see Jane. 

Mom 

Lazy Sunday

This is a restful Sunday after all we have been doing Fri and Sat.  We went to "Camp Invention" at Jane Adams on Fri p.m.  Max, Jake and Olivia all attended the camp.  I don't think I am very creative, because their projects just look like a bunch of junk to me.  The kids will all probably turn out to me mini-Bill Gates.  

Jake and Livie came home with us to spend the night.  We went to Steak and Shake for supper and then to see Jane at Von Maur.  Olivia had a bear that she had won at school that needed some fluff so we did that and then came home and watched TV.  They were supposed to be in bed by 8:30, but by the time they have had upteen drinks and go to the bathroom, brush teeth and read a story....I drew the limit when Livie wanted me to sing a song!    LOL It was 9:00 p.m. 

We went to Jerry's church this a.m. and no mention of politics today!!!  I don't think it has it's place in church. 

Today I would wish Pauline a Happy Birthday and hope that she will be able to mellow a little.  Life is not fair, but it is also short and we have to make the best of it.  If I were able, I would make Gary's eyes better and take away the ringing in his ears, and I would take away Margie's addiction to cigarettes.  We all need to keep our "spunk" but keep the anger at bay.  I wish my Dad could have lived long enough to see me finally free of the nicotine habit.   He tried soooo hard to get me away from that bad habit.  Today, I am not going to wrap my mind around negative thoughts.  

Just for today, I will NOT buy something that I don't need....One day at a time...Alcohols....give up alcohol and drink tons of coffee......one addiction leads to another....hopefully a better one!!!!

Until Later, 

"I surrender all "  

Running Wild Day

This is swim day at the Y.  After the Y, I picked up Margie and she drove me to Davenport to purchase some new athletic shoes.  I really wanted "Brooks" as I remember that is what I was wearing when I walked the Bix in 1989 (same year as Jane's birth).  There were only 2 stores that carried that brand.  Dick's Sporting Goods and  Running Wild.  I thought I had tested Gary's patience with my shopping, but it was nothing compared to what I did to Margie today.   

I did manage to get some shoes but not Brooks, they are called " Saucony".   I never heard of them before, but they seem quite comfortable.  I will try them out tomorrow.  We ate lunch at the old "Ground Round", Mexican now and very good.  After I dropped Margie off at her home, I went on to South Park and took some alterations to Penneys for Gary and then to the Credit  Union and of course Von Maur, but I am boycotting the plus size dept at Von Maur because she wanted me to return some things to another store.  I did pre order some Estee Lauder.   I did not see Jane's car there today.  

I have been busy ever since I got home around 3 p.m.  I watched Tim Russert's Memorial service and then supper.   I hemmed a pair of shorts for Gary and washed all his towels from downstairs.  He only brings them up when he runs out!!!!   That is 3 loads full.....yikes. 

It is now 8 p.m. and I am tired....no nap today.  Tomorrow will be another busy day. 

WW walking and I need to make a salad that I did not get to today.  

I love this weather.....can't wait to wear my new shoes, but I will not sleep with them tonight...(Beth)  but I did pull out a pink t-shirt to match the pink and silver shoes.   I am obsessed....

Love, 

Mom 

Walking in Homewood

I was up at 6 and walking at 6:45 with Vida.  She keeps everyone on their toes around the neighborhood.  I noticed when we are walking that she notices much more than I do.   I am not tuned into weeds, broken trees etc. 

Margie was here this a.m. to finish cleaning.  She also needed a hat for one of Max's friends at school.   (Camp Invention) 

GAry is still working and he has to purchase a new shower head for his Mom and install it sometime today.  Max has a ball game at 5 p.m.  Perhaps we will stop at Stashus and get a sandwich. 

I think I will call my brother and see if everything is okay.   It is unusual for him not to answer my emails to him. 

It is nice today...about 75 degrees....lovely..

Until later, 

mom

p.s.  I did talk with Chris this a.m.   

Sunny Mon morning

A usual day, but with sunshine, what a relief.   It is cool today....very pleasant.   We were up early as Gary had to be a work at 7:00 a.m.  I went to the Y at 8:00 a.m. and actually put all my clothes on after showering.   I had a meeting to attend at 10:00a.m.   

I am home now and see that my "cleaning lady' has been here.   How blessed I am to have her....I don't know where my time goes.....I never seem to get it all done.   Could it be that I am a bit slower??? oh NO!!!    I missed Chris' call again....maybe tomorrow.  

I have a pedicure appt in about 1/2 hour and then another meeting tonight....so see you all on Tues. 

Love to all......Until later, 

Mom 

Father's Day

We did to to Geneseo last night to listen to Russ Morgan's orchestra and we took Karen along.  She spent so much time picking out Mickey and Minnie mouse that we did not have much time to see the rest of the crafts.  We got rained out at the concert. 

I just wanted to reflect on my own father today.  My earliest memory of him was when I would come downstairs in the a.m....(probably sat or sun as he was always working) and crawled into bed with him and he made up stories.  Then I remember when we had scarlet fever he could not come to the house and he held up a teddy bear outside the window.  When he was home, I loved to unlace his boots and I remember there was a knife on the side.  My mother used to say that he never lifted a finger to put on shoes, clothes, etc. for either me or my brother.  I am sure he was not perfect, but when I think back, I cannot remember anything that was not perfect about him.  He never cursed, yelled, spanked, and yet he did not need to.  You always knew he expected you to do what was  "right".  I could go on and on ...but the main thing to remember about him...was his constant prayer for you.   Through all my turbulents in my life, it was my dad who constantly prayed for me and I would see little miracles happening.  

I know that I have inherited his laughter and my optimistic  view on life from him.  Some people used to say he was not realistic, I like being optimistic better. 

We are spending a quiet day at home today.   God Bless Gary today, he is a constant Husband, Father and Grandpa.  

To all the Dad's today...Happy father's Day and remember that your children will still remember those little things when they are 70 some years old. 

Love, 

Mom  

 

Sat in Geneseo

Finally a day without rain.   We went to Max's promotion at Karate from 10-11 a.m. and then went to Jake's base ball game.   

Went to Panera's for lunch and then home for a short nap before we go to Geneseo.   They are having their usual celebration for  Father's day.  There will be vendors in the Park and then a steak supper with ice cream social.   Russ Morgan's band is playing in the band shell.  I called Karen to see if she would like to go with us, as I remember that she liked Russ Morgan's music.  Of course, Tobin will be coming along.  Oh well, it is what it is!!!  

Happy Father's Day to all you Fathers out there.   As Tim would say " your children are standing on your shoulders".   "Study hard, play hard and keep your honor."

Love, 

Mom 

Friday the 13th...sad day

I am not sure why I felt so close to Tim Russert except for reading his two books.  It feels like losing my father or brother.  Tim died today. 

I just said to Gary that this is the first time we have eaten at home on a Friday night in years and just then I heard the news about Tim.  

I missed the pool this a.m. because Gary had an eye appt. in R.I..  After his appt. we went to Penney's to shop for Gary.  Wow that is a challenge to get him to try on clothes at the store.  I was determined to get him some jeans and shorts that actually fit his butt!!  It was hard but I got the job done.  After the shopping, we went to Ming Whan (sp) for lunch.  Gary spent the afternoon helping Jake put one of his birthday gifts together.  No rain yet today, but a lot of tornado warnings last night.  Max's ball game was cancelled tonight.   Max has his promotion at Karate tomorrow.  

I am trying to talk Gary into going to Geneseo tomorrow.  They always have a lot of vendors in the Park and then the Russ Morgan orchestra in the band shell at night.  We will see....

Janie was so thoughtful to call me today to let me know about Tim.  I was surprised that she knew how much I loved him. He was a good guy so I am sure there will be a place for him in Heaven. 

Until Later,

Mom 

Another rainy day

I was up at 6 a.m. and walked with Vida 2 miles.  I was so sure that I would lose weight at WW,but my past sins when Chris was here showed up!!!   Oh well, it is what it is!!!  

My classmate from Geneseo called me today and sort of gave me the job of treasurer for our class reunion.   I think since it was my suggestion to go Short Hills, I better take on the job.  

Gary worked again today and I went to the grocery store and spent $168.26....that is outrageous and I did not buy any meat except 4 brats.  I napped for 1 hour and Jake's baseball game was called off so Gary went to get him and brought him home.  He only wants famous amous and milk!!!

Gary will go to Stamp Club tonight if the weather does not  get any worse.  Tomorrow is Swim class and Gary has appt at the eye dr.  

Gary and I sat on the porch last night and watched the 3rd Thin Man....

All for now....

Later Gator, 

Mom 

p.s.   I must get with Jane to see what she wants to do for her birthday. 

Wed. June 11, 2008

Today would have been Jack and Dixie's wedding anniv.   I forgot to mention it to her when I talked with her this p.m.  I think 53 years.  

Max's Party was a success.  The kids seem sooo grown up for 3rd grade, or perhaps I have forgotten.  Mr. B. the teacher even showed up for the party!!  I came home about 1;30 and took my usual nap and then our power went out.   We went to USA for dinner and when we came home, the power was back on.  We went to Star at 7:30 and home again at 9:30.  

Swim class today, stopped to pay taxes and then to K-mart to pick up some greeting cards.  Usual nap of about an hour and I should be starting dinner soon.  Not much going on today...just the usual laundry, etc.  We will be home tonight.  Gary is working. 

Later, 

Mom 

Sunshine at last

I only have 15 min to write this...I am due over to Margie's house to help with the after school party.   Last day of school. 

Sunday night was a milestone, as we attended Jake's Birthday party and G. Phyllis was there.   It was the first time we had all been together ever.   Phyllis is Gary's ex.  It went quite well, after all it has been 15 years.  Time makes things fade over the years.   Never forgotten, but less important as time goes by.  

Mon. I was back at swim class and everyone missed me.   It is really nice to be missed.  We are a close group of old fogies (sp).    Last night I got Gary to watch "The Atonement" with me.  It was a really good movie....maybe even better than the book.  

I got up at 6 this a.m. to walk with Vida.  It took us 45 min to walk up to 41st street and back.   I think I may be a little slower than she, but after all she is 10 years younger.   I did the walking and let her do the talking. She knows everything about the neighborhood.  All the people across the street from us did not have power last night. 

Gary's mom called this a.m. and we have to stop over to put the slats back in her bed.  I wonder how much jumping she does on that bed the slats are forever falling out.   LOL 

I must go...looks like a restaurant night tonight and Star later.  

later, 

Mom 

p.s. I have some issues with our new pastor.....he is anti-gay.   More later....

Chris visits

Chris and LC arrived Wed night about 9 p.m.   I made taco soup and everyone seemed to enjoy it.  Beth and Jane tried it out after WW.  Beth and Jane are looking so cute.  

Thurs was a full day...we all went to see Max at karate and then to Geneseo to view my old house on Oakwood Ave.  We all ate dinner at the Boulevard restaurant downtown Geneseo, which used to be the old Palace Cafe.  

Friday all kids were here for dinner and I made Lasagna, Margie brought the salad and Beth the garlic bread.  And everyone had a good time.....doing ad-libs with Max.  

Sat.  was hot and humid....I stayed in  most of the day and Beth had a wonderful turkey dinner at her house and then the Chris' got to see the talent show from Logan.  We were all home by 9 and watched the remainder of "The thin Man".  

Sun.  a.m.  Gary brought me a cup of coffee in bed and I proceeded to spill the whole cup on the carpet, my shoes, my nightgown......Ugh...that was enough to wake me up!!!

Chris left this morning for Chicago to see his dad and then back to S.F. on Mon.  

We will be going to Jake's birthday party this p.m.  

I feel somewhat sentimental.....not sure why...I am presently reading "Big Russ and Me" and I think that book is on the sentimental side with quotes we all hear from our parents at one time or another.  

Water exercise tomorrow.....back to normal stuff.....

Later Gator, 

Mom 

Jake's 8th birthday today

Gary went to work at 6 a.m. today.  Yesterday I had my hair color enhanced and trimmed (?) it is kind of short, but okay. 

Congratulations to Beth and Dan on their new car.  We went for a short ride last night...very nice.  You deserve and we are pleased that you shared your joy with us.  

Jason got a promotion and had to do some entertaining last night.   Jake and Olivia were dropped off after school and we took Jake to try outs for the traveling soccer team.  He had strict orders from Mom to not eat any snacks or do any shopping!!!  Okay, Mom only one pkg of famous Amos. For supper I divided 1/2 lb of hamburger into 4 patties and we had mininture cheeseburgers and chips.  It is just enough for his little appetite.  Livie is another story...she will eat or drink just about anything any time.  Olivia needs a lot of patience and that is not Gary's best suit so I try to keep her close to me.   It reminds me of Margie when she was little.   She could test your patience somewhat and I would keep her close to me.

Chris and Chris will arrive tonight and I better get cooking!   I am going to make cookies and some taco soup.  I need to do a little grocery shopping and check out bathrooms, etc.  Margie will be here this a.m. to help with the cleaning.  

I cut Joe's picture out of the paper today....Wow that is really high above that airplane at the airport.   Good job Joe.  

Later, 

Mom   

Hotel California

soooo...you really are reading my blog!!!  Okay, I have been busy getting ready for #1 son visiting on Wed.  I am so looking forward to seeing him and cooking etc.  

I had my mammogram on 27 May and I am always glad to get the news that everything looks normal.  I have started taking "evening primrose oil" at night.   I read on the internet that it is good for balancing hormones.  Oh well....we will see....  

Last Thurs. I had my Botox injection.  It is a little uncomfortable, but considering what it does for me, I can't complain.  We then went to North Park and I found a dress that I think really looks nice on me.   It is really hard to find something that is not to short or not too bare, etc.   This one I feel comfortable when wearing it.  

Friday night we went to the Moose with Jim and Pauline.   More about this later.....

Sat. noon I went the the Mother Daughter banquet at 1st Covenant Church with Gary's Mom.  They really do things up nice with decorations, etc.  Bernice looked really nice.  She is 94 years old and really wants to look nice when going out.   I think sometimes women lose this when they reach an old age.  She had her hair done in the morning and was wearing a see- through blouse with a tee under and chopped pants.  Her jewelry was very matching and she apologized for having to wear hose because her legs don't look like they did years ago.

After I came home, Gary wanted a date night!!!   Surprise Surprise.   I wanted Chinese, but both restaurants were CLOSED.  We ended up eating at Bishops.   Oh well, it is what it is.  We then went to see "Sex and the City".  I thought it was cute and liked the clothes, but I did not cry like Beth and Jane said they did.  

Sun and Mon I spent cleaning and doing laundry.  Vern was here to mow the lawn, but he is a little reckless, but better than nothing.  We have such a little yard and he insists on using that riding mower and ran into our tree.   

Tomorrow is hair day and Gary works all day.  Wed.   Chris and Chris will be here.

We received an invitation to Lora and Bill's 50th wedding anniversary.   It is still  a question if we will attend.   Later on this too... 

Until later