For the past week I have been fighting a summer cold. UGH! The worst part is the racking cough. I have coughed until my lungs feel like they are going to leap out of my mouth any time. Finally, I resorted to some flavored cough syrup. The taste is foul. Just as I remembered from my looonnnggg past childhood. You would think with all the technology and advancements in medicine in the last 60 years, that the pharmaceutical industry would have improved the taste of cough medicine. NOT! And as for cough drops, they are still nasty. Maybe the whole "nasty taste" thing is supposed to be there to chase away the germs!
One of the wonders of modern medicine is the "daytime" and "nighttime" meds. Yes, they too are foul tasting, but they do help with the symptoms. At least they are helping me. I will survive, despite the nasty tasting stuff. Is this modern chemistry at it's finest?
Peace, (soon, I hope)
JE
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Summer!
It's around this time every summer that the hot weather, humidity, and other summer stuff brings on the doldrums. I'm tired of the heat, tired of being cooped up in the AC, but can't stand the heat like I used to be able to. My company has gone home, and the house is clean. The laundry is about done, and there is absolutely nothing good on the telly. I have about crocheted my fingers to the bone, and have just finished book # 42 and began #43.
Last night I sang with my buddies for about 2 hours getting ready for a gig in August. We haven't sung together at all since last November. Everyone else is much younger than I and still working, so our schedules are different. This was a treat. It was a good time out for me, and singing with these guys is always enjoyable. Our baritone, Alan, told us that he talked to a lady that took our quartet's name and might be giving us a call to perform in the fall. That would mean a road trip of about an hour, and of course that means a meal out!! The gig we have next month is at a fund raiser for a local cause. It will be an old fashioned ice cream social, which means performing outdoors. We hope for no rain! Which is pretty safe hoping in August in Indiana.
My mower guys were here this morning and spiffied up my lawn. Looks great. I found out that in the winter, these guys plow snow, so now I am going to get on their list that whenever we have 3" or more of snow, they will plow me out. Yay Me! I won't throw my snow shovels away, but at least I know that the big stuff will be taken care of, so I can still do the porch steps and short walks.
I am dog sitting for Giles the Wonder Dog while daughter Prof vacations in Florida. We have had a good time running around the back yard, and snoozing. I took him to our walking park in town this morning. We jogged a while and walked a while, but had to stop and greet everyone we met on the path. Everyone asked questions (since he's kind of a rare sight) and wanted to pet him and make over him. He loved it! One 1/8th mile lap was enough to tire him out, and now he's asleep on his pallet upstairs. I could have gone another few rounds, but he did the first one just fine, so we'll leave it at that.
Speaking of naps, I can hear my recliner calling. Might just catch a few winks until the dryer buzzer goes off.
Peace,
JE
Last night I sang with my buddies for about 2 hours getting ready for a gig in August. We haven't sung together at all since last November. Everyone else is much younger than I and still working, so our schedules are different. This was a treat. It was a good time out for me, and singing with these guys is always enjoyable. Our baritone, Alan, told us that he talked to a lady that took our quartet's name and might be giving us a call to perform in the fall. That would mean a road trip of about an hour, and of course that means a meal out!! The gig we have next month is at a fund raiser for a local cause. It will be an old fashioned ice cream social, which means performing outdoors. We hope for no rain! Which is pretty safe hoping in August in Indiana.
My mower guys were here this morning and spiffied up my lawn. Looks great. I found out that in the winter, these guys plow snow, so now I am going to get on their list that whenever we have 3" or more of snow, they will plow me out. Yay Me! I won't throw my snow shovels away, but at least I know that the big stuff will be taken care of, so I can still do the porch steps and short walks.
I am dog sitting for Giles the Wonder Dog while daughter Prof vacations in Florida. We have had a good time running around the back yard, and snoozing. I took him to our walking park in town this morning. We jogged a while and walked a while, but had to stop and greet everyone we met on the path. Everyone asked questions (since he's kind of a rare sight) and wanted to pet him and make over him. He loved it! One 1/8th mile lap was enough to tire him out, and now he's asleep on his pallet upstairs. I could have gone another few rounds, but he did the first one just fine, so we'll leave it at that.
Speaking of naps, I can hear my recliner calling. Might just catch a few winks until the dryer buzzer goes off.
Peace,
JE
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Cleaning Up!
My house is never really "dirty." But it does get dusty, and cluttered somewhat part of the time. Since I am having company this week, (tomorrow in fact) for several days, Prof and I have been cleaning. Or should I say, Prof has been cleaning and I have been helping. She has cleaned the kitchen, wiped down the cabinets, deep cleaned the counter tops, scrubbed her bathroom and laundry room and generally swept and cleaned the living room. I was responsible for dusting. She hates to dust. I also cleaned my room and bath. I let my brother and sis in law use my room and I sleep upstairs on the spare bed in the attic. That way, they have a room with a door, and their own bathroom, although we share that most of the time. At least for showers. So, as of right now, the place sparkles, thanks in most part to Prof. I really appreciate all her enthusiasm and help. I was busy trying to help my son and family with their move yesterday, so I just sort of let her do her thing. Thank goodness! She is much more adept at this cleaning than I am. And a lot faster and fastidious, too.
The other half of the family finally got moved, and late yesterday afternoon, they turned the keys over to the new owner. Now that they are all in one spot, the unpacking and putting away can commence. Boy! They have a lot of stuff. My daughter-in-law said that she is going to go through every box and decide what is worth keeping, what has been used recently, and what to give to Salvation Army or Goodwill. I operate on the theory that if I haven't worn it or used it in the last 2 years, I get rid of it. Not counting some old favorites, like my Navy Pea Jacket that is over 40 years old, and doesn't even fit any more, but it was given to me by an old friend who served in the Navy, (in Cuba, and never wore it) so I hang onto it. I have a couple of favorite sweaters that I keep, even if I don't wear them often. Otherwise, the theory goes into effect. I got rid of all the clothes that I wore to teach in last year, after I decided that I wasn't going back. It's a once a year cleansing of the closet and the cupboards. Works for me. What do all of you do with your "stuff?"
Peace,
JE
The other half of the family finally got moved, and late yesterday afternoon, they turned the keys over to the new owner. Now that they are all in one spot, the unpacking and putting away can commence. Boy! They have a lot of stuff. My daughter-in-law said that she is going to go through every box and decide what is worth keeping, what has been used recently, and what to give to Salvation Army or Goodwill. I operate on the theory that if I haven't worn it or used it in the last 2 years, I get rid of it. Not counting some old favorites, like my Navy Pea Jacket that is over 40 years old, and doesn't even fit any more, but it was given to me by an old friend who served in the Navy, (in Cuba, and never wore it) so I hang onto it. I have a couple of favorite sweaters that I keep, even if I don't wear them often. Otherwise, the theory goes into effect. I got rid of all the clothes that I wore to teach in last year, after I decided that I wasn't going back. It's a once a year cleansing of the closet and the cupboards. Works for me. What do all of you do with your "stuff?"
Peace,
JE
Friday, July 12, 2013
Moving Right Along!
After having their house on the market for what must seem like "forever" to them, my son and his wife finally sold their small, 3 bedroom ranch on a corner lot. The purchased a BIG, older home in midtown. It's a beauty! It has two living rooms, a dining room, a huge kitchen another room that I think was meant to be a parlor, and 4 large bedrooms upstairs. Complete with a large back yard, fenced, and a garage. It sits next to a house that burned beyond repair recently, and will be torn down in the near future. The kids have the first chance at buying the lot, which will make them on another nice corner lot. If they fence it, the little ones will have even more room to play.
Moving for them has been a trying experience. They have gobs of friends, all or most who said they would help with the move. They hired a moving company to move the house stuff and the garage was theirs to move. Well, first of all, most of the friends they counted on to help fizzled out on them. Secondly, the movers either misunderstood or just were being "butts" and refused to move the boxes; they moved only the heavy furniture. So, with the help of a few able bodies from our church, and the two of them, they have been using a U-Haul truck to move the rest. Imagine if you,will, two packrats, and 3 children who have almost every toy from Toys-r-Us, living in this tiny house. It was bursting at the seams. I don't know how many boxes of books alone the two adults have accumulated, but a gob lot, the way it looks. Plus, they both love to cook so they own a lot of cooking gadgets and kitchen stuff! Need I continue.
The two older children have been staying with the grandparents on the other side of town for the last few days. The baby has to stay close to Mommy because of frequent feeding times, but I did keep him for several hours yesterday afternoon and evening, with Mommy stopping and feeding and hauling him back and forth.
Tonight they hope to be done. I certainly hope they reach their goal. I feel guilty because I have not been able to help them because of my back and shoulder problems. I cannot lift and tug anymore. So keeping the baby was the best I could do and they seemed relieved that I took that on myself, at least for a few hours.
When they are all there, whether unpacked or not, it will be a relief to them. My son told me that he NEVER intends to move again, and he just turned 38 last week. We'll see how that goes for him! LOL! When I was his age, my wife and I had moved 3 times, and when I was 47, we moved where I live now. I told the kids that this is where I stay until my good friend, the local undertaker, takes me out one last time toes up!
Peace,
JE
Moving for them has been a trying experience. They have gobs of friends, all or most who said they would help with the move. They hired a moving company to move the house stuff and the garage was theirs to move. Well, first of all, most of the friends they counted on to help fizzled out on them. Secondly, the movers either misunderstood or just were being "butts" and refused to move the boxes; they moved only the heavy furniture. So, with the help of a few able bodies from our church, and the two of them, they have been using a U-Haul truck to move the rest. Imagine if you,will, two packrats, and 3 children who have almost every toy from Toys-r-Us, living in this tiny house. It was bursting at the seams. I don't know how many boxes of books alone the two adults have accumulated, but a gob lot, the way it looks. Plus, they both love to cook so they own a lot of cooking gadgets and kitchen stuff! Need I continue.
The two older children have been staying with the grandparents on the other side of town for the last few days. The baby has to stay close to Mommy because of frequent feeding times, but I did keep him for several hours yesterday afternoon and evening, with Mommy stopping and feeding and hauling him back and forth.
Tonight they hope to be done. I certainly hope they reach their goal. I feel guilty because I have not been able to help them because of my back and shoulder problems. I cannot lift and tug anymore. So keeping the baby was the best I could do and they seemed relieved that I took that on myself, at least for a few hours.
When they are all there, whether unpacked or not, it will be a relief to them. My son told me that he NEVER intends to move again, and he just turned 38 last week. We'll see how that goes for him! LOL! When I was his age, my wife and I had moved 3 times, and when I was 47, we moved where I live now. I told the kids that this is where I stay until my good friend, the local undertaker, takes me out one last time toes up!
Peace,
JE
Thursday, July 11, 2013
It's Strange:
- That grass doesn't grow as fast as the weeds.
- How it can be raining in one part of town but not in the other
- That a tree or plant that loves the shade, but still leans towards the sunlight
- That people who claim to be your friends, suddenly stop communicating with you
- How a blog can have 68 followers, but only get such a few comments
- How each day I seem to grow older on the outside, but remain a teenager in my mind
- How music can bring a lump to you throat
- How evasive sleep can be some nights
- How good the sunshine can feel, even on a hot sultry day
- How easily it is to be taken advantage of the older we get
- How easily feelings get hurt by just the little things said, or slights felt
JE
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Whew! Finally!
Finally! I have gotten caught up on all the episodes of "Downton Abby." I have been trying ever since season 3 came out on DVD to see it, and I didn't particularly want to own it, so I was counting on getting it from my public library. Just so happens, when I was in there last weekend, there was season 3 on the shelf. I had a marathon watching and now am caught up.
My daughter is making fun of me. "Dad is watching a British soap opera, " she chanted last evening. She's right! I am hooked, just like millions of other Americans and Brits.
I knew what was going to happen in the end, so I wasn't surprised, but I was saddened. I liked Michael. His mother, Isabel, is probably my favorite character on the show, along with Bates and Anna. Gee, listen to me. I even talk like a soap opera affectionado. Sort of like my wife was with "Another World." And my Grandmama was with "Search for Tomorrow." Maybe it runs in the family, who knows? I just know that I am all set when season 4 begins in January 2014. Yay me!
Peace,
JE
Do I need a "life" or what!!!
My daughter is making fun of me. "Dad is watching a British soap opera, " she chanted last evening. She's right! I am hooked, just like millions of other Americans and Brits.
I knew what was going to happen in the end, so I wasn't surprised, but I was saddened. I liked Michael. His mother, Isabel, is probably my favorite character on the show, along with Bates and Anna. Gee, listen to me. I even talk like a soap opera affectionado. Sort of like my wife was with "Another World." And my Grandmama was with "Search for Tomorrow." Maybe it runs in the family, who knows? I just know that I am all set when season 4 begins in January 2014. Yay me!
Peace,
JE
Do I need a "life" or what!!!
Saturday, June 22, 2013
"Roll Out those Lazy Hazy Days of Summer"
Summer Solstice is here! Along with the typical Midwestern hot, humid days. I was up before the butt crack of dawn to get my cardio walk in before the humidity got too high. I know, I know, I could go the the new "Y" we have here in town and make use of a treadmill, or walk on their indoor track, but the whole idea seems redundant to me. Walking outside makes me feel like I still exist as one with nature. I can look around at the trees, and see what other people are growing in their yards. I can speak to other walkers or bikers, I can wave at people who honk or wave at me, even if I don't know who it is. (I don't wear my glasses when I walk because they keep sliding down my nose, and my wrap arounds aren't prescription sunglasses.) If I walked on a treadmill, I would miss all of this. And the "Y" is far enough away from my house that I would have to drive to it, just to exercise. Now, don't get me wrong! When the weather gets too unbearable, I will probably go there just to "beat the heat." Most days I could walk at my church. We have a large indoor area that is usually open in the mornings for walkers. So that, too, is an option. But for now, I will just trot my bod (really, walk) along the sidewalks of town, waving and panting!! It's getting me off my rear, out of the house, and pumping up the ol' heart rate. Can't be all bad!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Read Any Good Books Lately?
As a matter of fact, yes, yes I have. I read Robert B. Parker's Lullaby, published after his death and authored by Ace Atkins. It's a Spenser novel, and that made it even better! Maybe Ace can continue to write this series...
Then I read Redfield Farm, by Judith Coopey, an excellent, well researched story of a Quaker family involved in the Underground Railroad prior to the Civil War. A very "smart" read, if you know what I mean.
I just finished Allan Folsom's The Exile. This superb action packed novel is a long one. It consists of 702 pages, so be warned: don't start it unless you have time to finish it. It's a good one!!!
Interspersed with these wonderful reads, I also read The Devil's Cradle by Sylvia Nobel. It was an okay novel, but just let me say, it wasn't quite my cup-of-tea. Enough said about that. I have two of her others here that I borrowed from Curley. I intend to just give 'em back unread. After much soul searching several years ago, I gave myself permission to not finish a book that I wasn't enjoying. I give it a chance, but now I don't feel obligated to read one if it doesn't meet my expectations. Nobel's work doesn't.
But, I must say, that three out of the last four were real "barn burners" for me. Not a bad pick from my local library, huh?
I still need to get used to using my Kindle. There's a lot of good stuff available at little or no cost now for Kindle, and all e readers, but I still like the look, feel, and smell of the written word, on paper, held in my hand. Call me old fashioned...that's okay!
Peace,
JE
Then I read Redfield Farm, by Judith Coopey, an excellent, well researched story of a Quaker family involved in the Underground Railroad prior to the Civil War. A very "smart" read, if you know what I mean.
I just finished Allan Folsom's The Exile. This superb action packed novel is a long one. It consists of 702 pages, so be warned: don't start it unless you have time to finish it. It's a good one!!!
Interspersed with these wonderful reads, I also read The Devil's Cradle by Sylvia Nobel. It was an okay novel, but just let me say, it wasn't quite my cup-of-tea. Enough said about that. I have two of her others here that I borrowed from Curley. I intend to just give 'em back unread. After much soul searching several years ago, I gave myself permission to not finish a book that I wasn't enjoying. I give it a chance, but now I don't feel obligated to read one if it doesn't meet my expectations. Nobel's work doesn't.
But, I must say, that three out of the last four were real "barn burners" for me. Not a bad pick from my local library, huh?
I still need to get used to using my Kindle. There's a lot of good stuff available at little or no cost now for Kindle, and all e readers, but I still like the look, feel, and smell of the written word, on paper, held in my hand. Call me old fashioned...that's okay!
Peace,
JE
Friday, June 07, 2013
Day Trippin'
Yesterday I went on a day trip. A bunch of us "seniors" boarded a bus for a trip only into the next county over from mine. There is MUCH I didn't know about that county. I found out that there was a huge Miami Indian settlement there once, and that there are still several Miami Indians around the area and that their state tribal council headquarters are there in Peru, Indiana. We visited the Cole Porter exhibit at the Miami County museum and that was a blast. He has always been one of my favorite composers, and I got to pose for a pic beside his 1955 black Caddy, which, interesting enough, was used in the movie, "The Godfather." We took a driving tour where we got to see Cole's birthplace, his boyhood homes and also his grave site. I found it interesting that though Cole Porter was a wealthy man, famous, and quite the talk of both Broadway and Hollywood in his era, it was his wish that, upon his death, he be brought back to Peru and buried with his family, or back to his "roots."
Since Peru, In is also the home of the Circus Hall of Fame, and the International Circus Headquarters, we visited the Circus City Museum. Though I am not a real circus buff, it was interesting to learn about local people who retired in the area, and have taught local talent to be circus performers, and that an actual amateur circus is produced there every summer. We met a granddaughter of one of circus' famed performers, Clyde Beatty. Interesting!
We toured some of the Miami county countryside and the grave site of Frances Slocum, who was a white girl kidnapped by the Miami Indians, in Pennsylvania, brought to Indiana, and eventually married a Miami Indiana chief. There is a lot of legends and actual folklore surrounding that whole story, which can be read by all in the novel, "The Lost Sister Among the Miamis."
We had a wonderful lunch at "The Siding." a restaurant in Peru. It is in an old train depot, which also has two old railroad dining cars attached and used as dining rooms. The buffet lunch was tasty and the facilities were unique, and quite well appointed. We ate altogether in the long dining car which was decorated in honor of Cole Porter, with a music theme, with strains of "Night and Day" and other Porter tunes playing softly in the background.
The company was great. I knew a few of the people who were on the trip previously, but met some new people, and, I feel, made some new friends. I'm glad I went!
Peace,
JE
Since Peru, In is also the home of the Circus Hall of Fame, and the International Circus Headquarters, we visited the Circus City Museum. Though I am not a real circus buff, it was interesting to learn about local people who retired in the area, and have taught local talent to be circus performers, and that an actual amateur circus is produced there every summer. We met a granddaughter of one of circus' famed performers, Clyde Beatty. Interesting!
We toured some of the Miami county countryside and the grave site of Frances Slocum, who was a white girl kidnapped by the Miami Indians, in Pennsylvania, brought to Indiana, and eventually married a Miami Indiana chief. There is a lot of legends and actual folklore surrounding that whole story, which can be read by all in the novel, "The Lost Sister Among the Miamis."
We had a wonderful lunch at "The Siding." a restaurant in Peru. It is in an old train depot, which also has two old railroad dining cars attached and used as dining rooms. The buffet lunch was tasty and the facilities were unique, and quite well appointed. We ate altogether in the long dining car which was decorated in honor of Cole Porter, with a music theme, with strains of "Night and Day" and other Porter tunes playing softly in the background.
The company was great. I knew a few of the people who were on the trip previously, but met some new people, and, I feel, made some new friends. I'm glad I went!
Peace,
JE
Monday, May 27, 2013
Is what I do a waste of time?
For years, I have been making my own greeting cards. I have invested scads of $$ in supplies, and etc. to do so. As I sat at my craft table (my studio in 3'x6' form) recently, I wondered if I was wasting my time. Who really cares? I know that I collect the cards I receive for a year, then go back through them for one last look, then either toss them, save the fronts, or donate them to some charity that can use them. Very seldom do I get a hand-made card. So, I ask myself, would people to whom I send cards be just as happy with a store-bought card which I could pick out at the dollar store, or Hallmark, if it had to really "special." I could save myself a lot of time and money by doing so, and it probably would be appreciated just as much. Thus the quandary that I am in right now. Also, the creative juices have seemingly dried up, at least temporarily. Same with the crochet hook, and the gardening. I have just run out of good ideas and thoughts. How does one get those creative juices flowing again?
Any thoughts?
Peace,
JE
Any thoughts?
Peace,
JE
Friday, May 24, 2013
Yard
I have turned the corner, folks. I have hired a lawn service to mow and trim my lawn. I have always taken care of this myself, but decided that with all the back problems I have been having, and the fact that I have always hated the "mowing" part of lawn care, I decided to bite the bullet, open the wallet and let our the moths ( ha!) and hire it done. The guys came yesterday for the first time. Wow!!! My lawn has never looked this good. Two guys came, mowed, edged the sidewalks, weed whipped all the edges around stuff, and used a leaf and grass blower to clear the walks, and hauled away the grass! All in about 45 minutes. Gosh, it takes me that long to get out the mower, gas it up and get the back yard done. It's their mower, equipment and gas, for a reasonable fee. Am I happy?? Goes without saying! American Eagle Lawn Care ROCKS!!!!!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Silence is Golden
Gee, it's been almost a month since my last post. Well, maybe that's because there hasn't been much worth writing about. Oh, I could write about birthday # 68 that occurred last week, but sometimes things just go on without saying. It was a nice day, spent with my good friend Curley, who took me out for breakfast, then my daughter took me to a rather swanky restaurant for dinner in the evening. My son and his family had me to there house the next evening for a nice dinner. Otherwise, #68 seemed to be just another leaf turned over in the page of my life.
I have the roof leak fixed in the kitchen and am getting estimates for the interior damage. All of the local contractors that I have contacted are extremely busy (good for them) due to the hail and rain damage throughout the county, so I am on a waiting list. That's okay, I can live with that. I am sure that there are more serious causes than mine. I would post a picture of my kitchen ceiling here, but it's too depressing. LOL!
Not much else to post at this time. So sometimes that silence is golden, and some times it isn't.
Peace,
JE
I have the roof leak fixed in the kitchen and am getting estimates for the interior damage. All of the local contractors that I have contacted are extremely busy (good for them) due to the hail and rain damage throughout the county, so I am on a waiting list. That's okay, I can live with that. I am sure that there are more serious causes than mine. I would post a picture of my kitchen ceiling here, but it's too depressing. LOL!
Not much else to post at this time. So sometimes that silence is golden, and some times it isn't.
Peace,
JE
Sunday, April 28, 2013
The rain, the leak, and things that go "bump" in the night!
Have I told you all about my leaky ceiling in my kitchen? After a high wind accompanied by rain and hail a few weeks ago, my kitchen ceiling began to leak. Now, bear in mind that the roof was replaced less than 3 years ago. It was one of those "rubberized" roofs that is guaranteed for 20 or 30 years. I had the original roof guys here, and they used some sort of caulking around an upstairs window, and around the "flashing" what ever that is. I am not a contractor, so I really don't need to know this stuff, or didn't until now. The last big rain we had early last week had water pouring in like I didn't even have a roof. I had pans, buckets and any other receptacle handy placed strategically around the floor to catch the drips. Oh, have I mentioned that I had contacted my State Farm Insurance agent after the first leak...3 times before he returned my calls. When he did call he said that the adjusters had lots on their lists and were handling the calls by seriousness, and he was sure they would call soon. Meanwhile, I had a contractor here to start figuring costs of repairs, and he agreed with the #1 roof guy that the leak "may" becoming from around the upstairs window. No way to "tarp it" as my insurance agent suggested, and it was sunny out and no rain predicted for a week or so. I thought I was in the clear.
Yesterday, still no call from said adjuster. One trip thru the kitchen doing laundry, I noticed that the drywall on the ceiling was sagging more than it had been. Hmmmm! The adjuster called late that afternoon to set up an appointment for next Wednesday.(Almost 2 weeks later) He asked me how bad it was. I said that I considered it really bad, and wondered how much longer it would be before the ceiling fell in. He laughed! Well, it was no laughing matter, and you could tell it wasn't his house! AND, then last evening, and mind you it hadn't rained for at least 3 days, I was sitting watching TV, and heard a loud crash in my kitchen. I hurried in there and lo and behold, half of my ceiling was on the floor. I began cleaning it up, and another chunk fell taking a blade off of my ceiling fan. Well, that is cleaned up, but let me tell you; wet drywall is heavy. I lugged the big pieces that didn't fall apart out to the fence, and then swept up the small stuff, along with several big chunks of original plaster. Now, my kitchen ceiling looks like a house from the "projects." I have always prided myself in having a nice home. This is so frustrating.
Now, it's raining, and without the drywall and plaster up there, I have drips where it never dripped. And I still can't do anything until State Farm says so. I am seriously pissed off about the whole thing. And I can see $$$$$ signs rolling as the leaking continues! And my beautiful cabinets and stuff might get ruined. Drats!!!
Peace, (soon please)
JE
Yesterday, still no call from said adjuster. One trip thru the kitchen doing laundry, I noticed that the drywall on the ceiling was sagging more than it had been. Hmmmm! The adjuster called late that afternoon to set up an appointment for next Wednesday.(Almost 2 weeks later) He asked me how bad it was. I said that I considered it really bad, and wondered how much longer it would be before the ceiling fell in. He laughed! Well, it was no laughing matter, and you could tell it wasn't his house! AND, then last evening, and mind you it hadn't rained for at least 3 days, I was sitting watching TV, and heard a loud crash in my kitchen. I hurried in there and lo and behold, half of my ceiling was on the floor. I began cleaning it up, and another chunk fell taking a blade off of my ceiling fan. Well, that is cleaned up, but let me tell you; wet drywall is heavy. I lugged the big pieces that didn't fall apart out to the fence, and then swept up the small stuff, along with several big chunks of original plaster. Now, my kitchen ceiling looks like a house from the "projects." I have always prided myself in having a nice home. This is so frustrating.
Now, it's raining, and without the drywall and plaster up there, I have drips where it never dripped. And I still can't do anything until State Farm says so. I am seriously pissed off about the whole thing. And I can see $$$$$ signs rolling as the leaking continues! And my beautiful cabinets and stuff might get ruined. Drats!!!
Peace, (soon please)
JE
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Loss
Today, I am feeling sad. I lost a good friend last night. After a long struggle with kidney failure, a kidney transplant, having that kidney fail, dialysis, my good friend Lynn died of a heart attack. He had been sick for a long time. But he never lost his spirit.
Lynn and I have sung together in choir, a quartet, an adult "swing" chous, and madrigal groups for over 35 years. He sang bass and could reach those really low notes that seem to shake the rafters. He was fun. He was humorous, and was a good Christian, family man.
His passing makes me sad, but it is a sadness that I realize is mine. Lynn has suffered so in the last year, that I know in my heart that he no longer is suffering. But today, that reality doesn't ease the sorrow in my heart.
Lynn was a strong leader in the community, and a respected business man. He had a near death experience several years ago, and because of it, wrote a book which told his story, and maybe made it easier for those faced with death and dying.
Lynn, will be missed, but I know that he is one guy that when he arrived at the heavenly gates, God greeted him with open arms and said, "Welcome home, O good and faithful servant."
Goodbye Lynn, I'll miss you, buddy!
Peace,
JE
Lynn and I have sung together in choir, a quartet, an adult "swing" chous, and madrigal groups for over 35 years. He sang bass and could reach those really low notes that seem to shake the rafters. He was fun. He was humorous, and was a good Christian, family man.
His passing makes me sad, but it is a sadness that I realize is mine. Lynn has suffered so in the last year, that I know in my heart that he no longer is suffering. But today, that reality doesn't ease the sorrow in my heart.
Lynn was a strong leader in the community, and a respected business man. He had a near death experience several years ago, and because of it, wrote a book which told his story, and maybe made it easier for those faced with death and dying.
Lynn, will be missed, but I know that he is one guy that when he arrived at the heavenly gates, God greeted him with open arms and said, "Welcome home, O good and faithful servant."
Goodbye Lynn, I'll miss you, buddy!
Peace,
JE
Thursday, April 04, 2013
TV, Jeopardy, and Netflix
I have never been too much of a TV fan. Oh, I watched my share of cartoons, and Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and Have Gun Will Travel, as a kid. I watched the original Dallas, and even got hooked on the series Lost for a while, until it got just too weird.
Since my wife passed, I have strayed away from watching too much TV and tried to amuse myself with the internet and books, and of course my hobbies and music.
Lately though, I subscribed to Netflix! I am hooked on watching some TV series. After watching every available episode of Downton Abbey, I am beginning MI-5, a British series about British intelligence. There are 86 episodes, and I am on episode 22. I am not sure I will stick with it, but for now, I will watch one after another after another! I watched the mini series, all 8 episodes, of The Ends of the Earth, and had already watched Pillars of the Earth. I have to admit to watching several movies, and have even watched some foreign flix with subtitles. Wow.
Of course, I always watch Jeopardy. It refreshes my mind, keeps me thinking and besides, I think I would actually win some money if I ever got on there. But, I would be a wreck if I was in front of a TV camera knowing that millions of people were watching be make a complete fool of myself! (smiling here),
All of this combined with my Friday night lineup of CSI New York and Blue Bloods, and Thursday night's Big Bang Theory, adds up to a lot of "boob tube" watching. Maybe when it gets to be Spring, I will get outside and leave the TV alone. Until then, it's late nights,(or early mornings) and the remote control.
Peace,
JE
Since my wife passed, I have strayed away from watching too much TV and tried to amuse myself with the internet and books, and of course my hobbies and music.
Lately though, I subscribed to Netflix! I am hooked on watching some TV series. After watching every available episode of Downton Abbey, I am beginning MI-5, a British series about British intelligence. There are 86 episodes, and I am on episode 22. I am not sure I will stick with it, but for now, I will watch one after another after another! I watched the mini series, all 8 episodes, of The Ends of the Earth, and had already watched Pillars of the Earth. I have to admit to watching several movies, and have even watched some foreign flix with subtitles. Wow.
Of course, I always watch Jeopardy. It refreshes my mind, keeps me thinking and besides, I think I would actually win some money if I ever got on there. But, I would be a wreck if I was in front of a TV camera knowing that millions of people were watching be make a complete fool of myself! (smiling here),
All of this combined with my Friday night lineup of CSI New York and Blue Bloods, and Thursday night's Big Bang Theory, adds up to a lot of "boob tube" watching. Maybe when it gets to be Spring, I will get outside and leave the TV alone. Until then, it's late nights,(or early mornings) and the remote control.
Peace,
JE
Sunday, March 31, 2013
He Is Risen!
Happy Easter to y'all! And a very wonderful and Happy Birthday to my absolutely fantastic daughter-in-law! May you have many more!!!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Monday, March 25, 2013
Where is Spring?
We did our annual Easter Cantata at church last evening. (I know it's Palm Sunday, but Spring Break here is the week after Easter and lots of our choir will be gone next Sunday,) and we were afraid that we would have to cancel because we knew this storm was coming. Our cut off time was 3 PM. By performance time at 7PM, still no snow. When it was over, refreshments were served, and as people were leaving to go home, it was just beginning to snow a few flakes. I call this a "God thing." He wanted us to present our message of the Resurrection of Christ. And we did!
Peace,
JE
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
My own "Baconator."
The other day, I was reading the latest Alex Cross novel, and Alex's grandmother, who lives with he and his family, was fixing breakfast. I followed Nana Momma's method for fixing bacon. Wow!
First, I fried the bacon like usual, only not until fully crisp. I then drained the bacon well on paper towel, sprinkled it liberally with brown sugar, placed it on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and topped with my cooling racks, to keep grease off of bacon, and popped it into a 350 F oven for 15 minutes until bacon finished crisping up. Served with scrambled eggs and toast. What a treat!!!
Peace,
JE
First, I fried the bacon like usual, only not until fully crisp. I then drained the bacon well on paper towel, sprinkled it liberally with brown sugar, placed it on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and topped with my cooling racks, to keep grease off of bacon, and popped it into a 350 F oven for 15 minutes until bacon finished crisping up. Served with scrambled eggs and toast. What a treat!!!
Peace,
JE
Monday, March 18, 2013
Mr. T and Gramps
Yesterday was the big day for Mr. T. He was baptized during our morning church service. In our church, we do "sprinkle" the babe, as a form of dedicating his life, and ours to the service of God. Then, when the children reach a certain age, mostly teens, they take an 18 month confirmation study, then are confirmed.
That being said, at 17 days old, my latest heir to the throne, was dedicated. He slept through most of it, but later, did open his eyes and look at Gramps with a definite "what's going on," look! Such a wonderful time in all our lives.
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Thursday, March 14, 2013
The Things You Do For Your Kids!!
My daughter belongs to a book club. They meet once a month for an evening of snacks and discussion. The book they were to read by next Tuesday, The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin, is not my daughter's "cup of tea." She is not a lover of romances, and especially romances taking place during the late 1800's. (Though her favorite book of all time is, "The Great Gatsby." Go figure!)
Since she knows that I am a great "Downton Abbey" fan, she knew I would like this novel. So at her recommendation, I read it. It took place mainly in England, during the Gilded Age. It was sort of reminiscent of "Downton Abbey," but would definitely NOT make a good TV show. It contained lots of "upper crust" rivalry and snobbishness. It also contained a lot of the back-biting that went on within the staff of "Lulworth Castle," where the book took place. I finished the book last night. I told Prof that I thought she should give it a chance, so she decided to renew it (due today) and read it. She called me about an hour ago and said that she couldn't renew it as it had a waiting list at the library. (Probably another member of her book club trying to cram it in this weekend before club meets next week!) So, being the great father that I am, (ahem!) I wrote a two page condensed synopsis of a 465 page novel for her. I felt like I was back in 11th grade AP English class. I will remind Prof when I give it to her that even though she is an English major, that right now she isn't teaching and she had better not grade my "book report."
I really need to get a life! Ha!
Peace,
JE
Since she knows that I am a great "Downton Abbey" fan, she knew I would like this novel. So at her recommendation, I read it. It took place mainly in England, during the Gilded Age. It was sort of reminiscent of "Downton Abbey," but would definitely NOT make a good TV show. It contained lots of "upper crust" rivalry and snobbishness. It also contained a lot of the back-biting that went on within the staff of "Lulworth Castle," where the book took place. I finished the book last night. I told Prof that I thought she should give it a chance, so she decided to renew it (due today) and read it. She called me about an hour ago and said that she couldn't renew it as it had a waiting list at the library. (Probably another member of her book club trying to cram it in this weekend before club meets next week!) So, being the great father that I am, (ahem!) I wrote a two page condensed synopsis of a 465 page novel for her. I felt like I was back in 11th grade AP English class. I will remind Prof when I give it to her that even though she is an English major, that right now she isn't teaching and she had better not grade my "book report."
I really need to get a life! Ha!
Peace,
JE
Friday, March 08, 2013
Me!
For some reason, way back when, I saved this. It struck me this morning, after a "restless" night, just how appropriate it is for me now.
I don’t have a masculine build anymore, no appealing abs or a flat stomach. I am far from being considered handsome, but I am me. I eat food. I have some flab. Probably more fat than I should. I have scars because I have a history. Some people love me, some like me, some hate me. I have done good. I have done bad. I love my shorts and flip flops, and sometimes I go without shaving. I don’t need to go to the barber anymore. I am random and crazy. I don’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I am who I am. You can love me or not. I won’t change! And if I love you, I do it with all my heart. I make no apologies or excuses for the way I am.
Peace,
JE
I don’t have a masculine build anymore, no appealing abs or a flat stomach. I am far from being considered handsome, but I am me. I eat food. I have some flab. Probably more fat than I should. I have scars because I have a history. Some people love me, some like me, some hate me. I have done good. I have done bad. I love my shorts and flip flops, and sometimes I go without shaving. I don’t need to go to the barber anymore. I am random and crazy. I don’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I am who I am. You can love me or not. I won’t change! And if I love you, I do it with all my heart. I make no apologies or excuses for the way I am.
Peace,
JE
Friday, March 01, 2013
He's Here!
New Grandson TW, is here. He finally arrived last night at 11:06 PM. He weighed in at 8 lbs, 3 ozs. And was a tall 20 in. long. He looks like his Grampa JE! (Not!) Mom and babe doing fine after a long long day of waiting! Grampa JE is tired! Think I will nap before going to visit! Pics to follow, with Mommy and Daddy's permission, of course.
Peace, (again)
JE
Peace, (again)
JE
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Blessed Event!
In just a few hours I will be Grandpa JE again. I am leaving after I write this to head out to the city to sit in the waiting room to await the arrival of grandson #3, (grandchild #4.) I got a text from my son to tell me that there's no rush, but that if things sped up, he would call me and tell me to hurry it along a bit. I was present at the hospital for the other 3 babes, so I must weather the snow and wintry weather and be there for this one, too. After all, this is a part of my heritage happening here. And there is nothing that brings more joy to a family than the addition of another member. So, off I go, book and handwork in tow, to wait! Blessings abound around here today, (and everyday.) I will post details about my new grandson later! Maybe, even a picture!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
An "Oh Crap," Day
Just when thing seem to be going well, BAM! Things can go to hell in a hurry. Today is one of those days.
What started out as a fun morning, breakfast with an old high school chum, and then back to the house for a nap and some quality crochet time, turned into an Oh Crap time instead. Not even three years ago, I had a new roof put on my kitchen. It was expensive, but supposedly wouldn't have to be replaced in my lifetime. Something like a 20 year warranty. Well, after raining all day yesterday, high winds and more rain and some snow, it is leaking. So, that warranted a call to the guy who installed it. He's expected here later on today to assess the damage and cure the problem, but my kitchen ceiling has still another trouble spot that will take extensive repairs. I have been saving money all along to redo my kitchen, put in new ceiling and floor covering. I am certainly glad that I hadn't done that yet, though it is on my "to-do" list for spring.
Also, before I left for Texas, at my last dental visit, my good Dr. Toothman told me that I needed to have a crown put on a lower back molar. It is mostly filling and he said that I needed to do that before it fractured. Well, I had used up my limit of dental insurance for 2012, so I thought I would do it when I got back and the new insurance year was in effect. Today, I bit into a jelly bean. A purple one, and I don't even like them very well, and felt something hard in my mouth along with the super soft jelly bean goo. Well, the molar had fractured, and I lost a huge (read felt like a boulder here) piece of tooth and filling. So, I called the dentist and he will see what he can do to either repair or pull (the refer to it as extract...ugh) on Monday next. So, all in all it's been a "no good, very bad, day, so far. And it's only 3:00 PM. What else can happen? I think I will stay in the house and pray for the best for the rest of the day.
Peace, (please)
JE
*NOTE: The roof guys are here and up there with caulking guns and goop. My new roof wasn't leaking. It seems that a piece of fascia board or something was loose and needed caulking and etc. Maybe that will stop the rainwater.
What started out as a fun morning, breakfast with an old high school chum, and then back to the house for a nap and some quality crochet time, turned into an Oh Crap time instead. Not even three years ago, I had a new roof put on my kitchen. It was expensive, but supposedly wouldn't have to be replaced in my lifetime. Something like a 20 year warranty. Well, after raining all day yesterday, high winds and more rain and some snow, it is leaking. So, that warranted a call to the guy who installed it. He's expected here later on today to assess the damage and cure the problem, but my kitchen ceiling has still another trouble spot that will take extensive repairs. I have been saving money all along to redo my kitchen, put in new ceiling and floor covering. I am certainly glad that I hadn't done that yet, though it is on my "to-do" list for spring.
Also, before I left for Texas, at my last dental visit, my good Dr. Toothman told me that I needed to have a crown put on a lower back molar. It is mostly filling and he said that I needed to do that before it fractured. Well, I had used up my limit of dental insurance for 2012, so I thought I would do it when I got back and the new insurance year was in effect. Today, I bit into a jelly bean. A purple one, and I don't even like them very well, and felt something hard in my mouth along with the super soft jelly bean goo. Well, the molar had fractured, and I lost a huge (read felt like a boulder here) piece of tooth and filling. So, I called the dentist and he will see what he can do to either repair or pull (the refer to it as extract...ugh) on Monday next. So, all in all it's been a "no good, very bad, day, so far. And it's only 3:00 PM. What else can happen? I think I will stay in the house and pray for the best for the rest of the day.
Peace, (please)
JE
*NOTE: The roof guys are here and up there with caulking guns and goop. My new roof wasn't leaking. It seems that a piece of fascia board or something was loose and needed caulking and etc. Maybe that will stop the rainwater.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Home!
After almost a month with my family in Texas, I am home. It's nice to be back in the thick of things here, but leaving my Texas family is always a bittersweet time. Lots of hugs and a few tears at the Amtrak station, but then onward and upward.
The trip home was uneventful. I actually was able to sleep on the train this time which was nice. I missed the stops in Little Rock and Poplar Bluff altogether. Wow! Slept right through them.
My daughter was on time and so was the train upon arrival. Well, the train was a few minutes behind schedule because a track switch was malfunctioning and we had to stop in sight of the station for a few minutes while the railroad gurus manually "flipped the switch."
My stay in Texas was delightful. I spent lots of time in the warm sun basking on my brother's outdoor deck. I drank a lot of beer and wine and had lots of good, healthy meals. My sister-in-law is an excellent cook, so I never went hungry. I got to visit some very interesting places, and visit with some friends. I visited the local bakery for kolaches on a regular basis, and was always treated like family. There's just something about the people there that makes them seem a lot more friendly than other places. Could it be Texas hospitality?? Even the cashiers at Walmart and Kroger acted like they were glad to see us whenever we were there.
Already I am looking forward to the next time I visit there. It will probably be in the fall since I just don't thing I am ready to face the Texas summers. When the local weather station fries an egg on the sidewalk, it's just too hot for me.
Peace,
JE
The trip home was uneventful. I actually was able to sleep on the train this time which was nice. I missed the stops in Little Rock and Poplar Bluff altogether. Wow! Slept right through them.
My daughter was on time and so was the train upon arrival. Well, the train was a few minutes behind schedule because a track switch was malfunctioning and we had to stop in sight of the station for a few minutes while the railroad gurus manually "flipped the switch."
My stay in Texas was delightful. I spent lots of time in the warm sun basking on my brother's outdoor deck. I drank a lot of beer and wine and had lots of good, healthy meals. My sister-in-law is an excellent cook, so I never went hungry. I got to visit some very interesting places, and visit with some friends. I visited the local bakery for kolaches on a regular basis, and was always treated like family. There's just something about the people there that makes them seem a lot more friendly than other places. Could it be Texas hospitality?? Even the cashiers at Walmart and Kroger acted like they were glad to see us whenever we were there.
Already I am looking forward to the next time I visit there. It will probably be in the fall since I just don't thing I am ready to face the Texas summers. When the local weather station fries an egg on the sidewalk, it's just too hot for me.
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Texas! Another Cold State
When I planned this outing, I was thinking of warmer climate. NOT! I have been here for 4 days now, and the temperature hasn't gotten above freezing yet. It has snowed, sleeted, and rained. But, the weatherman is promising a respite this weekend with temps in the 60s before another cold wave brings more cold into the metroplex area.
But, inside it's warm and cozy and full of fun. It's good to spend time with my brother and sister-in-law. We laugh at almost nothing, eat a lot of good, but healthy food, and just more or less enjoy being together. I sleep until I am ready to get up and I stay up until I am ready to go to bed. We watch a lot of TV, which I am not used to, but my brother is a TV addict! Loves the Western channel, but I can only watch Bonanza and Gunsmoke reruns so many times! I have finished one book and am half way through another one, and have even completed a crochet project and started another since I got here. But I wouldn't trade this time together for anything. At our ages, we know that each moment together is precious. We do plan to do some things like visit a couple museums, and see a movie or two, and of course hit some of my favorite shops that are unique to just this area. We also visit the nearby bakery with frequency where I have made friends with the wait help there over the years. I even made each of the girls that work there a little something as a token for them just being nice to me when I am visiting here. They treat our family like their family. Is that something unique to Texans, or is it just that I don't have that kind of place nearby where I live.
All too soon, it will be time to pack up and head home, but while I am here, I intend to have a Texas style good time, what ever that is!!
Peace,
JE
But, inside it's warm and cozy and full of fun. It's good to spend time with my brother and sister-in-law. We laugh at almost nothing, eat a lot of good, but healthy food, and just more or less enjoy being together. I sleep until I am ready to get up and I stay up until I am ready to go to bed. We watch a lot of TV, which I am not used to, but my brother is a TV addict! Loves the Western channel, but I can only watch Bonanza and Gunsmoke reruns so many times! I have finished one book and am half way through another one, and have even completed a crochet project and started another since I got here. But I wouldn't trade this time together for anything. At our ages, we know that each moment together is precious. We do plan to do some things like visit a couple museums, and see a movie or two, and of course hit some of my favorite shops that are unique to just this area. We also visit the nearby bakery with frequency where I have made friends with the wait help there over the years. I even made each of the girls that work there a little something as a token for them just being nice to me when I am visiting here. They treat our family like their family. Is that something unique to Texans, or is it just that I don't have that kind of place nearby where I live.
All too soon, it will be time to pack up and head home, but while I am here, I intend to have a Texas style good time, what ever that is!!
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, January 09, 2013
Vacation!
I think getting ready to go on vacation is the pits. The packing, the making sure everything is in order, bills paid, house closed up, etc., takes all the fun out of going. I think it would be easier to just stay home.
I decided to go by Amtrak this time. The only drawback to that is that there is no place nearby to get on the train. I can go north about an hour and a half and take a commuter train into Chicago. It leaves the only stop in Indiana at the butt crack of dawn, gets into Chicago early in the AM, then there is 6 hour layover at Union Station in downtown Chicago. I can catch the train after it leaves Chicago in Bloomington, IL, which is ideal for me, except that it is a 3 hour drive from my house to there.
Things are not going according to plan as they were originally for the ride to Bloomington, which I decided would be more cost efficient for all concerned. So now that is a worry, which will work itself out, but could cause some ill will or some hard feelings somewhere along the way. I thought I had it all figured out, but you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men!
Then I went to the pharmacy to have a prescription filled before I went, only to notice that I had no more refills left, which meant calling the doctor's office, getting his phys. asst.'s voice mail, telling her the problem, then waiting an extra day to pick up meds. Got that done a while ago, so that's one thing I can mark off my list.
Of course, money is always a big concern with me, and I wasn't budgeting for a particular expense, but looks like I will have to bite the bullet and pay it anyway. Which, in turn will short me on spending cash for the trip. Drats!!
Like I said, I think it would be easier if I just stayed home. But, I'm not going to. It's my time away spent with my Texas family and I am looking forward to it. Things will work out, and be okay in the long run. It's just frustrating. It's the little things that upset me the most. Could that be my age showing.
Next time, I will plan better, even though I thought I had a good plan this time. Time will tell. Friday is the big day. The Amtrak trip is long, but it is enjoyable and it's nice to see the country as I ride along and leave the driving to someone else.
Peace,
JE
I decided to go by Amtrak this time. The only drawback to that is that there is no place nearby to get on the train. I can go north about an hour and a half and take a commuter train into Chicago. It leaves the only stop in Indiana at the butt crack of dawn, gets into Chicago early in the AM, then there is 6 hour layover at Union Station in downtown Chicago. I can catch the train after it leaves Chicago in Bloomington, IL, which is ideal for me, except that it is a 3 hour drive from my house to there.
Things are not going according to plan as they were originally for the ride to Bloomington, which I decided would be more cost efficient for all concerned. So now that is a worry, which will work itself out, but could cause some ill will or some hard feelings somewhere along the way. I thought I had it all figured out, but you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men!
Then I went to the pharmacy to have a prescription filled before I went, only to notice that I had no more refills left, which meant calling the doctor's office, getting his phys. asst.'s voice mail, telling her the problem, then waiting an extra day to pick up meds. Got that done a while ago, so that's one thing I can mark off my list.
Of course, money is always a big concern with me, and I wasn't budgeting for a particular expense, but looks like I will have to bite the bullet and pay it anyway. Which, in turn will short me on spending cash for the trip. Drats!!
Like I said, I think it would be easier if I just stayed home. But, I'm not going to. It's my time away spent with my Texas family and I am looking forward to it. Things will work out, and be okay in the long run. It's just frustrating. It's the little things that upset me the most. Could that be my age showing.
Next time, I will plan better, even though I thought I had a good plan this time. Time will tell. Friday is the big day. The Amtrak trip is long, but it is enjoyable and it's nice to see the country as I ride along and leave the driving to someone else.
Peace,
JE
Monday, January 07, 2013
Four-Legged Visitor
As you probably know if you read my daughter's blog, she and her friend adopted a retired Greyhound. She brought "Giles" home to visit this week. I don't know exactly what I was expecting, but this dog is BIG. He comes almost to my waist to the top of his back, and is LONG! Of course, he pretty long legged, too. Lean, and all muscle! And extremely spoiled already.
Greyhounds that have been racers, are not "people" dogs. They are raised in "posh" kennels, travel in "posh" accommodations, and so forth. Giles was a racer. A successful one, at that. During his racing career, he was a winner several times, and won "place" or "show" even more. Then, during a race, he broke both back feet (paws). That ended his career. Instead of putting him down, as they often do, he was treated, and put in foster care with the GPA chapter in Indianapolis, and has since become a real "loverboy". The rest is history. LOL!
Having Giles here for the last few hours has made me reconsider getting a dog. I know now that I don't want one full time. To have him visit is a treat for me and hopefully him, too. But, it's too much responsibility for me on a full time basis. And, I was thinking either Lab or Golden, but have also decided that my house is simply too small for a LARGE dog.
So, Giles can come visit me on a very temp basis, and I will enjoy the time he is here. But, he answered one big question for me. I guess, at heart, I am just not a pet person.
Peace,
JE
Greyhounds that have been racers, are not "people" dogs. They are raised in "posh" kennels, travel in "posh" accommodations, and so forth. Giles was a racer. A successful one, at that. During his racing career, he was a winner several times, and won "place" or "show" even more. Then, during a race, he broke both back feet (paws). That ended his career. Instead of putting him down, as they often do, he was treated, and put in foster care with the GPA chapter in Indianapolis, and has since become a real "loverboy". The rest is history. LOL!
Having Giles here for the last few hours has made me reconsider getting a dog. I know now that I don't want one full time. To have him visit is a treat for me and hopefully him, too. But, it's too much responsibility for me on a full time basis. And, I was thinking either Lab or Golden, but have also decided that my house is simply too small for a LARGE dog.
So, Giles can come visit me on a very temp basis, and I will enjoy the time he is here. But, he answered one big question for me. I guess, at heart, I am just not a pet person.
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
There's Music in the Air
Many years ago, I bought a Yamaha Clavinova digital piano. It was the latest thing at the time. I could play it like a regular piano, add 40+ voices, backgrounds, and rhythms. I could also record tracks one on top of the other to create my own style. Along with all of this, I got floppy discs that contained full orchestra tracks, along with song books where I could play along. Wow!
Somewhere along the way, the complete recording device quit working. I began checking into replacing the disc drive and found that if it was even possible, it was extremely expensive. So I just shelved the possibility and continued to enjoy the piano parts that still worked.
Recently I found the manual that came with the keyboard, and had a brilliant (for me) idea. Why not ask Curley's son, Tall Guy, who is my resident computer geek, (no offense Tall Guy) to see if he had any ideas for fixing this thing. Well, let me tell you folks, that guy really came through. He did research on line, asked questions, and so on. And discovered that any (almost) floppy disc drive would work. He installed a drive from an old computer I had stored in my garage. Nothing! He found another one, tried it...nothing! He did more checking and found out that some of the wiring needed to be changed so he came in and did some wire cutting and soldering at my kitchen table. Those wires are so small, and so many of them in a sort of ribbon. He knew just which ones to cut, strip, and solder back in a different configuration. He plugged it in and still nothing. In checking closer, he discovered the simple fact that the wire ribbon needed to be turned half a turn. Suddenly, it was working. He plugged in a disc and hit play, and there was music.
Since then, I have been enjoying the keyboard, and spent probably too many hours sitting there playing one tune after the other after the other..
Tall Guy is a self taught computer guy. He isn't afraid to tear into a computer,be it a tower or a laptop. He's repaired monitors, too. People give up on their equipment, and he takes it home and makes it work. He's smart, and also just a good guy. I will be grateful to him for a very long time for making my piano a "full service" piano once again.
Hey Tall Guy, if you need anything from Taco Bell, let me know. I live closer than you do!! And by the way, thanks!!
Peace,
LE
Somewhere along the way, the complete recording device quit working. I began checking into replacing the disc drive and found that if it was even possible, it was extremely expensive. So I just shelved the possibility and continued to enjoy the piano parts that still worked.
Recently I found the manual that came with the keyboard, and had a brilliant (for me) idea. Why not ask Curley's son, Tall Guy, who is my resident computer geek, (no offense Tall Guy) to see if he had any ideas for fixing this thing. Well, let me tell you folks, that guy really came through. He did research on line, asked questions, and so on. And discovered that any (almost) floppy disc drive would work. He installed a drive from an old computer I had stored in my garage. Nothing! He found another one, tried it...nothing! He did more checking and found out that some of the wiring needed to be changed so he came in and did some wire cutting and soldering at my kitchen table. Those wires are so small, and so many of them in a sort of ribbon. He knew just which ones to cut, strip, and solder back in a different configuration. He plugged it in and still nothing. In checking closer, he discovered the simple fact that the wire ribbon needed to be turned half a turn. Suddenly, it was working. He plugged in a disc and hit play, and there was music.
Since then, I have been enjoying the keyboard, and spent probably too many hours sitting there playing one tune after the other after the other..
Tall Guy is a self taught computer guy. He isn't afraid to tear into a computer,be it a tower or a laptop. He's repaired monitors, too. People give up on their equipment, and he takes it home and makes it work. He's smart, and also just a good guy. I will be grateful to him for a very long time for making my piano a "full service" piano once again.
Hey Tall Guy, if you need anything from Taco Bell, let me know. I live closer than you do!! And by the way, thanks!!
Peace,
LE
Friday, December 28, 2012
Snug as a Bug in a Rug!
Today it's gray and gloomy, looking even more like snow. What am I doing?? Absolutely nothing. I got up earlier than usual this AM, made coffee and sat, and sat, and sat. This afternoon, I decided to change positions and laid on the sofa, and read. I fell asleep, and about 3:45 PM woke up and decided to shower and get dressed. Then I stripped my bed, straightened up my room and did a load of laundry. I'm "exhausted" so I think it's time for more sitting.
I decided the worse thing about living alone (more or less) is cooking. I have to cook it, eat it alone, then do the dishes.(When my late wife was here, were shared these and most household chores.) I see why so many single people opt to eat out. Tonight, since all meat in the house is in the freezer and not thawed, I will have a delicious bowl of Raisin Bran. I will lay out some pork chops for tomorrow.
Baby, it's cold outside, but in here it's warm as toast and cozy!
Peace,
JE
I decided the worse thing about living alone (more or less) is cooking. I have to cook it, eat it alone, then do the dishes.(When my late wife was here, were shared these and most household chores.) I see why so many single people opt to eat out. Tonight, since all meat in the house is in the freezer and not thawed, I will have a delicious bowl of Raisin Bran. I will lay out some pork chops for tomorrow.
Baby, it's cold outside, but in here it's warm as toast and cozy!
Peace,
JE
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Let It Snow!
The weather outside yesterday was frightful. Here in the Midwest, we got barraged with snow. My area of the world only got 4-5 inches, further south it was worse. Oh well, if we're going to live here, we have to abide with the winters.
Isn't it funny that when we in the Midwest get a "bunch" of snow, we hardly get a mention on the Weather Channel. However, the New England states, and along the East coast gets storms named for them and plenty of hype. Do they not know how to handle snow, or what? I would think that as much as they get in the winter, and that it usually comes to us before them, they would have plenty of warning and be prepared. What a bunch of wimps!! I guess it goes to show who are the heartier people. We are the pioneers, after all.
Today is beautiful. Not too cold, and the sun is out on this snow covering up all the ugliness. I decided to go out and get out the snowblower and get it going. NOT! It will not start. I only used it once last year as we had minimal snow, and it worked fine. I cleaned the sparkplug, put in new gas/oil mix, choked and primed and about pulled my arm off trying to get it going. Nothing would work. So, I resorted to the shovel. But since I am in therapy for my left shoulder and rotator cuff and etc, I more or less shoved instead of scooped. I got things cleared enough to get the car out of the garage, and the sidewalks cleared to the garage, and the front so the poor mailman could get to my porch. Now I feel like I need a nap. So I will.
We are expecting more of the white stuff later in the week, but if my snow blower won't start, I have a number to call for a guy who has a blade on his truck and charges a reasonable fee for snow removal. I will give him a call and save my back and shoulders from more harm.
Again I must say that this growing old is NOT for sissies.
Peace,
JE
Isn't it funny that when we in the Midwest get a "bunch" of snow, we hardly get a mention on the Weather Channel. However, the New England states, and along the East coast gets storms named for them and plenty of hype. Do they not know how to handle snow, or what? I would think that as much as they get in the winter, and that it usually comes to us before them, they would have plenty of warning and be prepared. What a bunch of wimps!! I guess it goes to show who are the heartier people. We are the pioneers, after all.
Today is beautiful. Not too cold, and the sun is out on this snow covering up all the ugliness. I decided to go out and get out the snowblower and get it going. NOT! It will not start. I only used it once last year as we had minimal snow, and it worked fine. I cleaned the sparkplug, put in new gas/oil mix, choked and primed and about pulled my arm off trying to get it going. Nothing would work. So, I resorted to the shovel. But since I am in therapy for my left shoulder and rotator cuff and etc, I more or less shoved instead of scooped. I got things cleared enough to get the car out of the garage, and the sidewalks cleared to the garage, and the front so the poor mailman could get to my porch. Now I feel like I need a nap. So I will.
We are expecting more of the white stuff later in the week, but if my snow blower won't start, I have a number to call for a guy who has a blade on his truck and charges a reasonable fee for snow removal. I will give him a call and save my back and shoulders from more harm.
Again I must say that this growing old is NOT for sissies.
Peace,
JE
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
On Christmas Day
Oh My Golly! What a wonderful day. The kids were all here. My brother called me from Texas, I received awesome gifts, and saw a great movie. If you have a chance to see "Guilt Trip," go go go! It's hysterically funny. Barbra Streisand (Joyce) accompanies her son (Andy) played by (I can't remember his name) on a car trip across the US from NYC to San Francisco. What happens along the way is just too funny to tell.
We even got free popcorn at the theater. (That's to make up for the "highway robbery" of $9.00 a ticket that it cost us to get in.) But it was worth it to spend quality time with Prof and Kiddo and Kiddo's buddy/roommate.
So, after all the excitement of the day, this ol' guy is tired. So, merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
Peace,
JE
We even got free popcorn at the theater. (That's to make up for the "highway robbery" of $9.00 a ticket that it cost us to get in.) But it was worth it to spend quality time with Prof and Kiddo and Kiddo's buddy/roommate.
So, after all the excitement of the day, this ol' guy is tired. So, merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Tis The Season
Tis the season to be jolly! Right! I am beginning to get excited about the upcoming festivities for Christmas. Finally! It's been a rough few weeks for me. Seems like I am missing Tilly more than ever. After all, Christmas was her favorite holiday and it seemed she was the driving force that got the house ready, the cooking done, and the gifts purchased and wrapped. (Okay, I did help with the decorating, and the wrapping.)
I went shopping yesterday for the first time. I had picked up a few things here and there, but the major shopping was done yesterday. I still have some to do. Oh, I haven't bought the two little grands a thing yet. I am at a loss there. Their house looks like Toys R Us now, so I am not buying toys. Mom says they don't need clothes, so what does that leave. BOOKS! I am looking for the classic children's books like Curious George, Goodnight Moon, etc.I haven't found them yet. Maybe B and N will have them if I can arrange a 45 minute drive to the nearest one.
Gift cards seem to be high on everyone's list this year. That is so easy, but so not-like-me. But, if ya can't beat 'em, join 'em. So I got a bunch of gift cards to everyone's fav stores. Then I picked up some smaller things for each adult.
My list for myself was rather simple. Tighty whities, Tee shirts, and socks were top of the list followed by a new set of portable phones, (mine bit the dust last weekend after 15 years of good service), a Kerig coffee maker, and a Chromebook! I believe in giving a list with a wide price span, just in case some one is feeling flush this Christmas. LOL!
My Christmas is made more wonderful each year when our church choir and orchestra present our annual cantata. That happened last Sunday evening to a packed sanctuary. It was a joyful celebration of the Birth. It is our choir's gift to the community and the community surely responded. There were people of different denominations and faiths present. It was glorious!
My travel plans to Texas had to be put on hold for a few weeks due to the expensive repairs on my car last weekend, but it is fixed and safe to drive once more, so maybe next month I will head to my bro's in the Lone Star State. I miss him and his family, especially at this time of year. But I will get there soon.
Peace,
JE
I went shopping yesterday for the first time. I had picked up a few things here and there, but the major shopping was done yesterday. I still have some to do. Oh, I haven't bought the two little grands a thing yet. I am at a loss there. Their house looks like Toys R Us now, so I am not buying toys. Mom says they don't need clothes, so what does that leave. BOOKS! I am looking for the classic children's books like Curious George, Goodnight Moon, etc.I haven't found them yet. Maybe B and N will have them if I can arrange a 45 minute drive to the nearest one.
Gift cards seem to be high on everyone's list this year. That is so easy, but so not-like-me. But, if ya can't beat 'em, join 'em. So I got a bunch of gift cards to everyone's fav stores. Then I picked up some smaller things for each adult.
My list for myself was rather simple. Tighty whities, Tee shirts, and socks were top of the list followed by a new set of portable phones, (mine bit the dust last weekend after 15 years of good service), a Kerig coffee maker, and a Chromebook! I believe in giving a list with a wide price span, just in case some one is feeling flush this Christmas. LOL!
My Christmas is made more wonderful each year when our church choir and orchestra present our annual cantata. That happened last Sunday evening to a packed sanctuary. It was a joyful celebration of the Birth. It is our choir's gift to the community and the community surely responded. There were people of different denominations and faiths present. It was glorious!
My travel plans to Texas had to be put on hold for a few weeks due to the expensive repairs on my car last weekend, but it is fixed and safe to drive once more, so maybe next month I will head to my bro's in the Lone Star State. I miss him and his family, especially at this time of year. But I will get there soon.
Peace,
JE
Friday, December 14, 2012
With a Heavy Heart
I, along with the rest of our nation, am with a heavy heart tonight. The senseless killings of 20 children and 6 adults today in Newtown, Conn. has brought the nation to it's knees in prayer. My heart goes out to all those who suffered loss today, and too, to those parents who suffered through the minutes until they found their children safe. Unless we experience something like this, we cannot even imagine the hurt and the tragedy.
I remember the fear that surged through me when I came upon a car accident on a nearby highway, noticed that the mashed up vehicle on its top out in a field looked a lot like my son's car. It was! But he was unhurt, thanks to seat belts and a roll bar. So, I can relate to some level of fear that those parents of surviving children must have felt. I cannot, in any way, imagine the loss that the parents of the murdered children are feeling. I only know that it must be devastating.
My big question is what was the young man's mom doing with automatic firearms. For cripe's sake, she was a teacher of young people. What did she need with an assault rifle?
There is no excuse for what this young man did. I really don't give a damn what his problems were, or what his motivation was. Who cares? He had to be sick, but who cares? I don't! I only care about those poor people in Newtown. How can they possibly overcome this tragedy.
I admire the law enforcement personnel who responded. What a job! And they did it so well.
What else is there left to say except please remember these folks in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn. May God be with them all.
Peace,
JE
I remember the fear that surged through me when I came upon a car accident on a nearby highway, noticed that the mashed up vehicle on its top out in a field looked a lot like my son's car. It was! But he was unhurt, thanks to seat belts and a roll bar. So, I can relate to some level of fear that those parents of surviving children must have felt. I cannot, in any way, imagine the loss that the parents of the murdered children are feeling. I only know that it must be devastating.
My big question is what was the young man's mom doing with automatic firearms. For cripe's sake, she was a teacher of young people. What did she need with an assault rifle?
There is no excuse for what this young man did. I really don't give a damn what his problems were, or what his motivation was. Who cares? He had to be sick, but who cares? I don't! I only care about those poor people in Newtown. How can they possibly overcome this tragedy.
I admire the law enforcement personnel who responded. What a job! And they did it so well.
What else is there left to say except please remember these folks in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn. May God be with them all.
Peace,
JE
Cars! I Hate it When They Need Repaired!
I am not a mechanic of any sort. I know where to put the gas in my car, and that's about it. I used to be able to change the oil, and even install new brakes, but with today's new "car tech." even that isn't possible anymore.
My beautiful red '06 Chrysler Sebring was making a "clunking" sound when I turned the steering wheel. It's been doing it for about a week, but was getting worse. So, yesterday I called the local garage and made an appointment to have it looked at. The "gal" I talked to was rather rude and abrupt, made no overture of being the least bit helpful. I explained that it was my only "ride" so I would at least need to be taken home, or else I guess I could sit there all day while they fix the car. A few other questions were met with either snide or rude remarks. They are the only Chrysler dealership around this area. The one where I bought the car is about 25miles away and I didn't want to risk going there with the noise it was making. So, I made the arrangements to go at 8:00 AM this morning.
In the meantime, I related my phone call to Prof. Sooooo, on her way home yesterday after school, she dropped in at the garage. She talked to the Service Manager, who she said looked to be about 12 years old (LOL) and she told him that his people were not very "people friendly" and told him how I was treated by whom ever answered the phone that morning. She said that I had been a Chrysler fan for a long time, and might just want to buy a car there sometime, and that if that was the kind of service...and so on and so on.
This morning when I got there, they were ready and waiting on me. With a free loaner car for the day. They called when they had an estimate of time and final cost. They called me again to tell me that I will be needing new brakes soon, or did I want them to do that today, and also called when the car was done. They were polite, and very accommodating.
Now, why and what made the change?? Was it because the service manager is just that much better at his people skills, or did the fact that Prof stopped in and was polite, but firm with him that made the difference. Do they treat all Senior Citizens like second class citizens unless they are stood up for by someone else, or what? Made me questions their ethics, though.
I bought my last car somewhere I had a friend working. He no longer works at that establishment, so I have no ties at that garage. So I might buy here locally the next time, or I might go 40 miles away where my friend is working now.
Customer service is so important, and whether or not I am wealthy or just middle class, old or young, should not make any difference.
But, now it's fixed,(broken tie rod) and paid for and I am satisfied with the job they did, even if I am not too impressed with their people skills.
Peace,
JE
My beautiful red '06 Chrysler Sebring was making a "clunking" sound when I turned the steering wheel. It's been doing it for about a week, but was getting worse. So, yesterday I called the local garage and made an appointment to have it looked at. The "gal" I talked to was rather rude and abrupt, made no overture of being the least bit helpful. I explained that it was my only "ride" so I would at least need to be taken home, or else I guess I could sit there all day while they fix the car. A few other questions were met with either snide or rude remarks. They are the only Chrysler dealership around this area. The one where I bought the car is about 25miles away and I didn't want to risk going there with the noise it was making. So, I made the arrangements to go at 8:00 AM this morning.
In the meantime, I related my phone call to Prof. Sooooo, on her way home yesterday after school, she dropped in at the garage. She talked to the Service Manager, who she said looked to be about 12 years old (LOL) and she told him that his people were not very "people friendly" and told him how I was treated by whom ever answered the phone that morning. She said that I had been a Chrysler fan for a long time, and might just want to buy a car there sometime, and that if that was the kind of service...and so on and so on.
This morning when I got there, they were ready and waiting on me. With a free loaner car for the day. They called when they had an estimate of time and final cost. They called me again to tell me that I will be needing new brakes soon, or did I want them to do that today, and also called when the car was done. They were polite, and very accommodating.
Now, why and what made the change?? Was it because the service manager is just that much better at his people skills, or did the fact that Prof stopped in and was polite, but firm with him that made the difference. Do they treat all Senior Citizens like second class citizens unless they are stood up for by someone else, or what? Made me questions their ethics, though.
I bought my last car somewhere I had a friend working. He no longer works at that establishment, so I have no ties at that garage. So I might buy here locally the next time, or I might go 40 miles away where my friend is working now.
Customer service is so important, and whether or not I am wealthy or just middle class, old or young, should not make any difference.
But, now it's fixed,(broken tie rod) and paid for and I am satisfied with the job they did, even if I am not too impressed with their people skills.
Peace,
JE
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
My "grown up " Christmas List
Okay Mel, here is mine. (Note that you and I have a couple of the same ones.LOL!)
1. Last Christmas play you saw in a theater? Scrooge
2. What is your favorite Christmas movie? The Preacher’s Wife
3. Who is your favorite fictional Christmas Character? The Little Drummer Boy
4. Favorite magazine for Christmas ideas? Taste of Home
5. Favorite smells of the Season? Pine and Spices
6. Favorite sounds of the Season? Love the sound of jingling bells!
7. The saddest part of Christmas? Missing those who have gone on before us.
8. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up on Christmas morning? Is everything ready?
2. What is your favorite Christmas movie? The Preacher’s Wife
3. Who is your favorite fictional Christmas Character? The Little Drummer Boy
4. Favorite magazine for Christmas ideas? Taste of Home
5. Favorite smells of the Season? Pine and Spices
6. Favorite sounds of the Season? Love the sound of jingling bells!
7. The saddest part of Christmas? Missing those who have gone on before us.
8. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up on Christmas morning? Is everything ready?
9. Favorite Christmas treat? Chocolate fudge
10. Where is your best hiding place for gifts before Christmas? Car trunk, only I have the keys
11. Finish this statement. “If I had lot of money I’d….give more to charities and good causes..
12. What is the best present you remember ever getting for Christmas? There have been scores of "BEST" presents over the years. I loved them all!
13. What kind of weather do you like to have on Christmas? It’s Indiana, so snow and cold is a must!
14. Favorite holiday drink? Spiced Cider
15. Something I used to do at Christmas that I don't do anymore.....Buy lots of gifts and send lots of cards
16. Do you wear anything special for Christmas? Nope
17. Favorite Christmas memory? Seeing Prof and Kiddo hauling all their stuff off the train from Montana. Maybe not a “favorite, but was a hoot.”
18. What is your favorite Christmas activity? Singing in our Christmas cantata.
19. What activity is traditional in your family on Christmas Day? After unwrapping, we go to a new movie. We all have to agree on the same one.
20. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? There’s so many, but I love “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.”
21. What is your least favorite part of Christmas? Taking down all the decorations and packing it all away again!
So, what is on your Grown-Up Christmas List??
Saturday, December 01, 2012
On Getting On...
The older I get:....
The more I enjoy sleeping in.
The more I like just staying around the house.
The more I enjoy the giggles and laughter of my family.
The more I like the smiles of my friends and acquaintances.
The more I enjoy a good book and a cuppa coffee.
The more I appreciate a hug.
The more my faith means to me.
The more I admire the "heroes" of my community. ( Medical personnel, Fire and rescue, and police.)
The more I enjoy the beautiful lights and sounds of Christmas.
The more time I want to spend just being me.
The more I love being alive and being free to do all things.
Senior citizens and those of you who aren't there yet, but might be close, enjoy life today. Tomorrow isn't here yet, and yesterday is gone and done with. As someone wiser than me once said, "Today is a gift...that's why it's call the "present."
Peace,
JE
The more I enjoy sleeping in.
The more I like just staying around the house.
The more I enjoy the giggles and laughter of my family.
The more I like the smiles of my friends and acquaintances.
The more I enjoy a good book and a cuppa coffee.
The more I appreciate a hug.
The more my faith means to me.
The more I admire the "heroes" of my community. ( Medical personnel, Fire and rescue, and police.)
The more I enjoy the beautiful lights and sounds of Christmas.
The more time I want to spend just being me.
The more I love being alive and being free to do all things.
Senior citizens and those of you who aren't there yet, but might be close, enjoy life today. Tomorrow isn't here yet, and yesterday is gone and done with. As someone wiser than me once said, "Today is a gift...that's why it's call the "present."
Peace,
JE
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