Tues. May 30

From a warmish MO,

I guess I complain about the cold, but at least you can add another layer - unless it is quite bitter. In my obesity, I can't shed clothes as well as I used to and I must admit I am already ready for it to be fall.

We have had a rather active day. Jim pounded some metal posts into the ground this a.m. - maybe 6 or 7 - and has tried to use wire from the fence to the posts to reinforce the fence - hopefully it will still be standing when we get back from Pomme. He was exhausted after the effort.

I puttered inside with laundry and packing needed items for the trailer - most will be left in the trailer for this summer and fall, but would have frozen over the winter. I could have gone to the store in Hermitage to get most of the items, but the girls would have been left in the crate in the trailer as it is too warm to leave them in the car.

I tried to doze during the middle part of the day, but Jim was on the move so it was hopeless. I called Barnes Baker motors about 2:00 to see if the car was ready - was - so I went down and brought it home. Then I set out on a second round of errands - vet's to get some more Frontline Plus, Kelly's to pick up the newly framed photo of the vaulters that Butch put together for Jim, plastic bags from HyVee and WalMart to the library, information to the Ad Page relative to the Jobson reunion (mailed same data to Macon and Brookfield yesterday), and surely something else. About 3:30, I headed to a local car wash as the car I drive has been needing a bath for several weeks.

We will do some loading of the vehicles tonight with items that can take the heat. Jim plans on leaving early in the a.m. - will pull the boat - and is supposed to call me when he has selected a site at the camp ground. I will then load the coolers (frozen and non frozen items), load the girls, and then we will take off to Pomme - usually takes me a little more than 3 hours if the roads are in good shape. Hopefully the girls won't need to stop until we get to the campground.

I'll be back on next week - probably Wednesday.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. May 29

From a potentially stormy MO,

This has been relatively a quiet day. The girls for some reason were restless last night. I was up with them about 11:30, again at 4:30, and then I couldn't get back to sleep. I finally got up about 5:30 and retrieved the KC paper - St. J wasn't here yet.

I went back to bed about 6:00 as Jim was moving about that time. We headed to Country Kitchen for a "birthday" breakfast about 7:00. I splurged and had a big breakfast rather than the usual "light" breakfast.

Jim worked outside this a.m. even thought it was already warm and humid. He mowed the yard and also drove in some metal posts at key spots along the wooden fence - hoping this will give some support while we are gone. I am going to have to call contractors when we get back from Pomme as he doesn't seem to ever get around to it. I was hoping the repair was going to be done before he went to Canada, but ---

I can't believe how warm our mornings are - usually almost 70 and sometimes a little above - with the humidity level unbearable. Needless to say, we haven't walked outside and I must start using the stationary bicycle downstairs.

We dozed during the middle part of the day. I didn't realize I was so tired, but I was down for four hours! Jim was down for probably close to three hours. He had a reason as he had gotten so hot this a.m., but I have just been puttering.

I have done several small "clean-up" projects this a.m., but still have a few more to do today. Harvey and Barbara are going to Alaska later this summer and I have some old photos from Skagway and Whitehorse that dad took when he was in the service in the mid 1940s. I want to make copies tomorrow and send the copies to them.

Tomorrow will be full as we need to pack and get boxes ready to take to the trailer. I brought home anything that would freeze last October and also some baking staples (flour, cornmeal, sugar, etc.) and these containers need to be filled. I also need to check that I have oil, etc. When we didn't have pups it was easy for me to go to a local store (maybe five miles away) to get almost anything I needed, but with this heat, I don't want them in the car while I shop. I can leave them in their crate in the trailer, but that is not want I want to do frequently.

In case I forget to mention it on Tuesday, we will be leaving on Wednesday for Pomme de Terre - coming home probably Tuesday or Wednesday or next week - depending on weather.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. May 28

From what has been a warmish day in MO,

This has been a full day, but not at an hectic pace. The girls slept well last night - or if they didn't - I sure didn't hear their complaining. Jim began moving after 6:00 this a.m. and I went back to sleep until after 8:00.

After cleaning up, Jim and I went to HyVee for breakfast and then some minor grocery shopping.

I puttered with downloading and running CD copies of discs - then ran a set of photos. In the meantime I had called Grace Ann to see if I could come over and go over what needed to be in the newspaper articles. I left here a little after 12:30 and was back in Chillicothe about 4:30. Since then I've written a newspaper article to send to Brookfield as well as Macon (also sent it to them via e-mail, but feel better sending a hard copy in case I made an error on the address.) I also called Aunt Maxine to go over the article to see what might need to be changed or added.

Supper has been fixed, a full dishwasher ran while I was fixing supper, so now it needs to be unloaded and filled again. I also didn't water plants last night so I need to get outside and get that done.

We'll start getting organized on Monday for our Wednesday departure for Pomme. I need to be close to the telephone in the a.m. until about 10:00 as Nancy Shy is doing the computer work for Mobile Meals and will fill in for me next Monday. She hasn't done it since the program has been altered, but I know she will do fine.

We need to start carrying some boxes from the family room that contain items for the trailer - of course they also need to be gone through. I know I need to fill containers with flour, etc. that I brought home rather than leave in the trailer. If I have two days to carry the boxes up, maybe it will go easier.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. May 27

From a sunny, warmish MO,

This has been a full day - again. I had indulged in a diet coke when I went to Bucklin on Friday afternoon (left here about 3:00) and sleep just wouldn't come last night. I know I was still tossing and turning after midnight - just old age.

We slept in this a.m. as the girls didn't get my attention the second time until almost 7:00. I was nice enough that I fixed French toast this a.m., then we puttered until time to pack the plastic bottles of water on ice - then head to Bucklin.

Grace Ann and her family were already there doing a few more "tweaking" of things. She had decided a few weeks ago that maybe the young children would prefer hotdogs to shredded pork or beef and this really was a hit to the many young ones in attendance - probably a dozen to 15. They had their own special corner with all kinds of inexpensive games and activities - probably made watching them a lot easier for moms and dads.

The oldest person (age 98) arrived about the time we did with his wife. He is really sharp mentally and seems to have good use of his eyes - just a little trouble with hearing. He had not seen the large family tree that his daughter and son-in-law had made - and of course was quite impressed (as were all others in attendance.) I am guessing we probably had 70 or more adults (counting teens) in attendance - quite nice as Grace Ann and I had thought maybe 40. Harvey (one of my first cousins had made wooden gifts for various categories - oldest, youngest, greatest distance, etc.) Of the eight children that survived infancy or in the case of one had died soon after Vicksburg - four children were represented with descendants being present. Several had brought old family photos which the others of us had not seen - so it was an interesting day.

We left there about 4:00 as almost all the clean-up had been done. I need to call Grace Ann tomorrow to get some details so I can write a follow-up article for the Brookfield and Macon newspapers as they had been good to have an article about six weeks ago about the reunion.

We don't have specific plans for Sunday other than using it as a day of rest - just what the old bones need.

We tried taking photos of the family tree and easels - if they have turned out, I'll put them on the blog if they are understandable.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. May 26

From a now dark and late (for me) MO,

This has been an active day!

Thank goodness the girls slept well last night. I think I was up with them about 4:00 and Jim released them for the day about 6:00 this a.m. The way they are so happy you would think they had been in their sleeping crate for days!

Jim joined one of his breakfast groups this a.m. - while I set out on some errands. I didn't take the girls as it was close to 70 degrees and was already warmish, sunny, and somewhat humid. Leslie had already been here to set a trap for the remaining kitten.

Jim mowed the yard after his breakfast and I must admit that I didn't get too much done - laundry started and moved over with another load being started, went through some accumulated bills and mail, made a trip to HyVee, etc.

I dozed during the middle part of the day while Jim left here a little before 2:00 to see the new Poiseden movie.

I left here about 3:00 to head to Bucklin. We had a good crew there - Betty (a first cousin), Grace Ann (another first cousin), her husband and son, Bobby (another first cousin), Aunt Maxine, Harvey (another first cousin), his wife and daughter, and a couple of drop ins. We met a distant cousin who lives in Nevada (the state) and she and her husband drove over from Macon to set up a family tree that she had drawn. I'm guessing it is a good 15 feet or more long and the height is a good yard or more. She definitely has artistic talent as the tree is magnificent. She had also made three easels showing family photos, etc - again done with an artistic talent and creativity that I think family members will look at in awe tomorrow.

Most of us ended up eating at Tall Paul's in Bucklin. The food was good and the company excellent.

I arrived home in time to accidently see the last of the made for tv movie about Ike and D-Day. It was really good - explains why I haven't been on earlier.

Oh, by 9:00 this a.m. I checked the trap and the fifth kitten was safely inside. When Jim returned from his breakfast, we took the trap and kitten to our local animal shelter - now it can join its mother and siblings.

We are leaving here about 9:30 to head to Bucklin. I need to ice down bottled water in the a.m., but everything else has already been taken over.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. May 25

From a now dark, warmish MO,

This has been another full day. The girls slept until after 4:00 this a.m. and by about 5:30, Jim and I knew we were awake for at least part of the day so we let them join us in bed - much to their great delight. They especially love their daddy after he shaves - something about the shaving cream residue makes them even more loving.

I did hear the fifth kitten when I took the girls outside at 4:00 so Jim put a little milk out about 6:30 - and it was gone in about an hour. We have called Lesley again so hopefully she'll get here to set the trap. Jim and I saw the kitten this evening and he put more milk out.

We had several at breakfast this a.m. - Clara, Pat, Judy Duncan, Mary Dusenberry, Laurinda, Mary Willis, Sandy, and yours truly. I may be missing someone - just chalk that up to old age. Jan Logan and her husband are to return from Italy I think tomorrow (Friday.)

I had a few errands to run and then I checked in at home. We (the four of us) took off a little before 10:00 for a few more errands and then left the girls at their "hairdresser's" at 10:30 for a summer haircut. I really don't like the hair this short, but it looks as if summer has arrived and since we are thinking about going to Pomme next week, I want to see any critters that might get on them as I really don't want little critters in the trailer. Ticks are very active and plentiful this summer. The girls have Frontline, but I still don't want the critters coming into the trailer.

Jim and I headed to Edinburg cemetery - going through Trenton - and put some flowers down on the graves of JT, Lorraine, Mike, Laddie, great grandparent Fulkersons, Harold Fulkerson, and grandparent Montie and Opal French. There were several cars there with people decorating graves. One thing we noticed was that NO peony bushes were visible - wonder if that must be a policy?

We ate at the Wild Onion as we retraced our steps towards Chillicothe.

We picked up the girls at 1:30 - quite sleek - especially Abby who doesn't seem to have an ounce of fat on her - then there is Trixie, but even with everything showing, she doesn't look as fat as when she has a lot of hair. Trixie's hair is more dense than Abby's with a heavier undercoat, but she is still heavy.

We headed to the bedroom when we got home and the four of us took a two hour nap.

I have all of the flowers and veggies planted now except for the butterfly bush. I will tackle that on Friday.

Friday will be a full day. Jim joins one of the breakfast groups in the a.m. We hope to walk a little after 7:00 in the a.m. - then he will go on to breakfast. I am leaving here a little after 3:00 to head to Bucklin to help set up for the reunion. I am toying on going on to Macon afterwards to meet relatives that I have never seen before, but am not sure I want the 60 mile trip home afterwards - we'll just see how I feel after setting up.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. May 24

From an almost dark, warmish, humid MO,

This has been a much more active day than I anticipated. The girls slept well - thankfully - with me taking them out about 3:00 and then Jim took them out about 6:00. They then joined me in bed for a serious cuddle until 7:15 as Jim helped me make the bed and then he took off for the first of two breakfast gatherings.

I left here just before 8:00 to join Pat at HyVee. From there I headed to the old WalMart parking area and met Mary Willis, Eva Danner, and Sandy McGinnis to check out Foster's Greenhouse in the area between Avalon and Hale. The three greenhouses weren't real large, but they had a marvelous variety of flowers and vegetables - and all the healthiest I had seen for a very several years. Annuals were half/price and already potted arrangements, etc. were at regular price. I bought a few more annuals (flowers and veggies), but couldn't resist the really healthy looking butterfly bushes - finally convinced myself to get one.

From there we went on to Hale and eventually located the home that Patricia Doughty Ferguson and her new husband have - absolutely a beautiful setting and the house looks marvelous. I hadn't really the new husband was a brother to Susan Norris. We returned to town and headed to Francine's for lunch. Brenda O'Halloran and Marsha Leopard arrived a little afterwards so the two tables had a continual conversation going on.

Then my problems began. I noticed the "service engine" light was on, but needed to go to the bank and then on to the cemetery to leave some flowers at the grave of Elizabeth Willard. I then went by Barnes Baker where they had me drive the car inside, hooked it up, and then quickly lifted the hood of the car and said something about it being hot. I must confess I hadn't even looked at any of the gauges so I don't know if they registered hot or not. Anyway, the fan to the motor (or something like that) was no longer working. They replaced a fuse and have ordered a new fan - to be put on this coming Tuesday. I opted to stay at B/B while they worked and eventually made it home.

When I arrived in the house, I noticed the light was blinking on the telephone and it registered "Houston Rest" which I couldn't figure out at first, then decided it meant Houston's on the Plaza - a marvelous place to eat. I still couldn't figure out what was going on and they soon called again - had found Jim's billfold (I hadn't realized it was missing) and indicated that some credit cards were inside, but no cash. I called Jim on the phone to see where he was (they were heading home and were almost at Liberty) so they turned around to return to the Plaza and get the billfold. On the way home, he called and we compared credit cards - all seemed to be there - so at least I didn't need to start calling credit card companies. He had lost it in the restroom and hadn't realized where he had lost it.

They (Redford, Leroy Butts, and Jim) had stopped to see Jim Nashan on the way down this a.m., but he was in therapy. They then saw Butch Shaffer at St. Luke's (experiencing some heart problems) and received the idea that he would probably be coming home on Thursday - am not sure just what was going on there. On the way home (after returning to the Plaza for the billfold) they stopped again to see Jim Nashan. It seems as if he has lost most of his vision in his right eye and I'm thinking it is the left ankle and foot causing him a lot of problems. He speaks fine and mind is alert, but mobility is quite an issue. Jim actually found Nashan better than he expected, but of course not in a very condition either.

On the way home, Jim called that they were stalled south of Kearney due to a bad wreck so they were later getting home than expected after the billfold fiasco. Actually they were earlier as had things gone well, I think they had planned on seeing a movie.

Thursday is a full day for us. I have breakfast with the ladies, Jim takes the truck in at 8:30 for an oil change, the girls get summer haircuts at 10:30, and at some time we are going to Edinburg to decorate graves. It seems as if something else is on the schedule, but my old mind is going blank right now.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. May 23

From a still daylight, warmish, breezy MO,

This has been a full day - as usual. Lesley Patek came by about 9:00 last night and we managed to nab one of the kittens. She set a trap for the rest of the litter and there were two in there this morning when she came at about 6:30. She reset the trap and by 9:00 a fourth kitten had been nabbed - which she came and picked up. The trap was again set and about 7:30 I was outside watering plants and heard a thump - and the mother has now been caught. Lesley was really hoping to get the mother as she knew the mother would be pregnant again - with more kittens. She'll be by later and get the mother. At least the kittens will be reunited with the mother for the time being.

We did a brief walk this a.m. - I am guessing not too much more than half a mile and Jim was very winded half way through so we returned home. I can't say I was in the best shape, but I could have done a few more blocks. We are terribly out of shape!

We (including the girls) left here about 11:00 to head to Marceline and to New Cambria to decorate. The flags were already in place in Marceline and the cemetery was very well groomed. My maternal grandmother and my mom's brother are buried there as well as a brother of my grandfather Jobson.

We then did a brief drive through the downtown area of Marceline - then we headed to New Cambria. This cemetery has many Jobsons (or family relatives ) in it - extending from my great, great grandfather and grandmother Jobson, great grandfather and grandmother Jobson, grandparent Jobson, two uncles, great aunt, cousins, one great uncle (and wife) as well as a great aunt, and then extended Jobson family descending from siblings of my great grandfather. Then on my grandmother Jobson's side - her parents and maternal grandparents. There is also a marker for the great, great uncle who died after the siege of Vicksburg. Of course these graves are a small part of the community cemetery and I always recognize so many names on headstones from growing up in the area.

When we returned from New Cambria, Jim dropped me off at HyVee while he brought the girls on home - then returned to pick me up. Helen came a little later, then we had a phone call from Vickie Garrett and ended up having dessert at Washington Street.

Jim is having breakfast with both "old men" groups in the a.m. and then will leave with some of the second group to go to North Kansas City to see Jim Nashan. Jim Nashan taught social studies at our local high school for many years and is a vital member of the second group. He has been at NKC for probably 3 weeks at least and who knows how much longer. I'll try to pass on information tomorrow when Jim is back.

We had somewhat of a downer today as we went to see a local insurance agent to sign up for "long term care." As she was filling Jim's questionnaire out she asked about cancer and because Jim uses the implant - he was denied coverage - Jim always cringes when he gets turned down whether the first time when he inquired about giving blood, life insurance for car loans, and now this. I can no longer be covered under a "couples" discount and mine will be about $150 higher. I need to make a decision in the next couple of days or will have to pay a higher premium when my birthday arrives. Jim thinks I should go on and get the three year coverage, but I'm not sure - will need to sleep tonight on it as I need to have a check in by Thursday if I want to be covered on the current age rate. Decisions!

Be safe.
B.

Mon. May 22

From a warmish, sunny MO,

This has been an active day. The girls slept well last night, but I awakened about 1:30 and had a lot of difficulty going back to sleep. It seemed I had finally gotten into a good sleep when it was time to get up. Oh, well --

I had Mobile Meals this a.m. With the new changes I was expecting a lot of problems, but we ran into only one glitch - and I somehow figured that out. I was to have MM next Monday, but one of the gals came in today who hasn't been on the new program and she wants to do next Monday - "if I will stay by the phone at home." She has agreed to do the following Monday so we will probably be heading to Pomme on Wednesday next week. Since she is covering for me, I won't need to drive back for the Monday morning work (the other worker is in Vancouver.)

When I finally got home (almost 10:00) Jim was deep into a movie on tv and I made the serious goof of saying something to him - interrupting his ability to follow the action. I puttered around here until he was ready to leave on his errands (wanted me to go with him) so the girls and I spent time in the truck on a few occasions while he took care of some things.

When we returned home, I headed out to do my list - had neglected getting flowers for graves - so he insisted on driving me to do this deed.

He did call someone new to come by and take a look at the privacy fence. Hopefully the guy will be able to get here in a few days. I made a phone call to our prescription group and refilled three drugs - good to have that done. Hopefully they will come before we leave, otherwise I'll see if Thompsons will check the post office box for me and retrieve them. I've been to HyVee to get makings for a taco salad for supper. We took the montage of photos of pole vaulters by Kelly's this afternoon and he will matte and frame it - will be priceless to have on the wall.

We see someone about long term care in the a.m. and beyond that, our day is open, but of course there will be some accumulated errands by then.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. May 21

From a warmish, breezy MO,

This has been a quiet day - just what these old bones needed. The girls seem to be upset when we are away for a length of time and I tend to be up with them several times during the night - seemingly needing to go outside and they usually do puddle - but last night it was 12:30, 2:30, and again at 5:30 -- needless to say I needed some sleep this afternoon.

I had finished crocheting a baby afghan on the way to Kearney yesterday and spent part of the morning sewing the loose strands of yarn in - something I don't enjoy doing. Anyway, it is now ready to go to the cleaners tomorrow to be blocked.

The Sunday newspapers are always enjoyable and the KC paper had a good article on visiting Big 12 cities - and today's city was Austin. We have yet to see the bats and Barton Springs, but we have covered most of the other items that were mentioned - especially the eating places. Whole Foods was mentioned and that is a fantastic experience.

I slept for three hours this afternoon and Jim also went down for a nap, but not nearly as long. He had taken a Tylenol PM last evening and of course slept through all of my getting up and down with the girls.

I now have six tomato plants in the ground - about two weeks later than usual for me. I also have the appropriate marigolds planted around them to help ward of bugs. Jim was checking out the privacy fence and had come across a black cat in the backyard - of course the girls were going bananas on their smaller area of yard. Then when he reached the southeast corner (behind the shed) he came across a small black kitten. Now I'm wondering if the girls had discovered the mommy cat yesterday while outside and this added to their reasons for going outside last night - oh, well --

I still need to water the flowers in the front yard and do a serious job of weeding, but I am hoping we will get some rain and the weeds will pull easier. Now that is a good excuse for "Scarlet O'Hara".

We have a full day on Monday. I do the computer work for Mobile Meals and have a good list of errands to do - none will take much time, but they need to get done. Jim also has his own list of errands so we'll see how far we get.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. May 20

From a warmer MO,

This has been a full day. We left here a little after 7:00 to have a good breakfast at Country Kitchen. When we returned, Jim puttered on the computer to send some good photos to Mike Jones in Iraq of CHS pole vaulters this year - and I basically mildewed.

Butch and Judi Shaffer picked us up about 9:30 and we headed to Kearney and the sectional track meet. The top four qualifiers in each event would qualify for the state meet at Jefferson City this coming weekend. The boys took three boys down - and all three qualified in at least one event. The girls took more down, but Sarah Stafford was the only qualifier - am thinking it was the shot put. One thing we saw that was outstanding was a male vaulter from Lee's Summit West HS clear a height of 15 feet and 6 inches - this is really outstanding for a high school male.

When the meet was over (Butch took photos of the CHS kids) we headed to Liberty to eat at 54th Street. We do so enjoy their salads there. On the way home, Judi drove as Butch spent the time going over the photos he had taken.

At this point, Sunday will be a day of recuperation. I do want to put my six tomato plants into the ground and this will necessitate breaking up the ground a little more, pounding in some metal stakes, planting the tomatoes, and the attaching the large tomato cages. It really won't take that long, but am guessing an hour will be sufficient. Beyond that I hope to finish the Diane Mott Davidson book (have been saying that for several days) and sew in the ends of a baby afghan that I finished during the drive to Kearney this morning.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. May 19

From a now dark and somewhat warmish MO,

This seems to have been another active day - guess we don't want to be bored. Jim had breakfast with a second group of "old geezers" this morning. Before he left, I had taken off with the two girls to first go to the drive through of the bank (pups get dog treats) and then to the post office and then to the drive thru at McDonald's. Then I headed to the hospital to get a duplicate of an EOB and meant to pay the bill, but discovered the check book was out of checks - I had written a health check yesterday and didn't notice it was now empty.

Later I made a trip to a local insurance agent as we had misplaced the data that she had provided - so now have a copy for us to look at again in the upcoming days.

Clara had called while I was gone and in the meantime had called Sandy - so the three of us ended up going to Jamesport to do some browsing. I had called Pat and left a message so I need to check to see if the message was recorded. The last time I had left a message - may have called a wrong number, but I double checked this time that the number was correct.

I fixed a roast in the pressure cooker for supper and then we finished off some items in the refrigerator.

We are going with Butch and Judi Shaffer to the sectional track meet at Kearney on Saturday. I'll see where my energy level is when we get home - so don't be surprised if there is no news.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. May 18

From a sunny, almost warmish MO,

This has been another full day, but the girls slept well last night - and that means I get a good night of sleep.

I headed out the door about 7:15 this a.m. to head to Country Kitchen to join the ladies - Pat, Sandy, Judy Duncan, Mary, Mary Dusenberry, and Laurinda. It was good to have the last two with us as they can join us only when school is out. Sandy's grandson came through his tube surgery in good shape yesterday, Judy's bedroom has been repainted and was to get some new furniture today, Laurinda and Pat were tackling after school jobs in the library, Mary Willis always has several projects going, and I just planned on going from one place to another.

One thing that happened at breakfast this a.m. was that an older gentleman, Orville, (and I know many of you have seen him walking all over town with his wife - and later pushing her in a wheelchair) seemed okay when I arrived, but soon afterwards was leaning back in the seat with his mouth open and a hand on his chest. Pat checked with him and he said he was having chest pains. An ambulance was called. By the time they got there he was in a prone position on the bench. Orville's wife died maybe three weeks ago. When I saw Pat later this afternoon, she had not heard as to how he was doing.

Jim and I mowed the yard this a.m. a little after 10:00. I did the riding lawnmower and he did the push mower. I don't think he had planned on doing the perimeter, but the morning was cool and thought that it would be a good time to do it.

I had a RSVP meeting at 12:15 and a library board meeting at 1:30 - so the afternoon was spent in that general area.

The new baby girl arrived home this afternoon so there will be a lot of activity next door. I'll let things slow down some before I go over. Mary Thompson was going to make muffins to take.

Jim has gone to see a movie (sorry - will need to ask him what movie when he gets back, but he thought I probably wouldn't want to see it.)

At this point we don't have much on our agenda for Friday. I received a bill from our local hospital today (for Jim) and we haven't received an Explanation of Benefits. This happened about a month ago and they sent me a copy of the EOB so I guess I'll just go in tomorrow and ask them to make a xerox copy for me. I'm not sure what is going on with our new insurance as we have received EOBs in the past few months - so???

I've been writing some bills this afternoon and getting some cards ready to mail - so the post office is on my agenda for Friday. I would like to get the Diane Mott Davidson book finished tomorrow - hadn't planned on taking so long to read it.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. May 17

From a now dark and late (for me) MO,

This has been a fast paced day. Thank goodness the girls slept well last night.

I was at the middle school by 8:30 to join others in a retirement breakfast for Terri Willard and Doug Long. The meal was catered from various sources - three egg/meat casseroles, cinnamon rolls, a fruit assortment, strawberries dipped in chocolate, cheesecake, potato casserole, etc., etc., etc. Among the retirees present were Mr. O'Dell, Judy Duncan, Helen Robinson, Pat Nichols, and I know I must be missing some - Sandy McGinnis was at NKC as her grandson was having tubes put into his ears, Kay was getting ready to leave for Taiwan, and so forth.

When I was leaving, David Kinen asked what my next activity was and I mentioned having a change of clothes so as to help Jim and vaulters put away the porta pits and the wooden pallets. He nicely volunteered to help and along with Ken Stull (weight coach) the project went quite well. Three of the vaulters were also there so we were done in less than an hour - but it was a dirty, sweaty hour.

After showering, we headed to the bowling alley for a sandwich and salad - then did errands - item to CHS, bank, baby card and gift sack, and it seems as if something more was also on the list.

I had a hair cut at 2:00 and then puttered with genealgoy, gift "wrapping", etc. until it was time to change into proper attire to go to the track banquet. This was a much shorter affair than normal - usually three hours - and we were out of there in a little more than an hour. I missed the kids not being spoken about individually, but it does become a very long evening.

Jim had breakfast this a.m. with both groups (Nashan still at NKC hospital) and I found out at the CMS breakfast that Ruth Miller is home, but not ready for company yet. Of course he also spent time at the pole vault area, slept some this afternoon, helped at the head table at the banquet, and is now fast asleep.

I have breakfast with the ladies in the a.m. then have a meeting of the RSVP board at 12:15 and the library board at 1:30. I noticed in the paper tonight that another lady has retired so I need to locate a retirement card and send her a letter about our weekly breakfasts. The refrigerator is bare of leftovers so I need to fix supper tomorrow night.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. May 16

From a temperate MO,

The girls slept well last night and that means I also was able to get a good night of sleep. We went to be very early last night - in fact a little after 8:00. I was up with the girls about midnight and then took them outside about 6:30 as Jim was moving around. We spent an hour in bed with some serious cuddling - what a way to begin the a.m.

We did some errands together this a.m. and then I set out on some errands alone. In the meantime, Jim headed over to the track to take the bolts from the vertical standards - then was to wait until some kids arrived this afternoon to help carry them to the shed. Of course he didn't wait and had taken several Tylenol as a result.

I left here about 11:30 with Sandy to go to Trenton. She had made some phone calls this a.m. to "ladies" about going, but hadn't found people at home. She needed to drop grades off and then we went to the Wild Onion for lunch. The seating is now about doubled as they have added the building to the south of them for extra space. We had a marvelous salad - chicken, a variety of greens, dried cranberries, nuts, croutons, surely I am missing something - oh, yes, loads of feta cheese, and they had a very tasty dressing.

Afterwards we stopped at a shop that has a lot of sort of country items in it. We saw several items of interest. We'll make another trip there at a future date.

We have a new baby north of us - Scott and Brandi Ellis are the parents of a baby girl - 8 pounds and 4 ounces, born just before noon today. Brandi probably weighs 98 pounds soaking wet so no wonder she has been miserable for the past several weeks. I don't understand the doctor allowing the baby to get to large - especially when they already knew a C-section had to be done. Anyway, mother and daughter are fine.

Jim has breakfast with his two "old fogie" groups in the a.m. and then is to meet the pole vaulters at 10:00 to have them help carry in the large porta pits and the wooden planks underneath.

I join the middle school staff at 8:30 for breakfast in honor of two retiring teachers - Doug Long (Doug's wrestling coach in high school) and Terri Willard. I plan on going by the track afterwards (with some old clothes to change) and see how the putting away of the pole vault mats are coming. My hair appointment is different this month and I get a hair cut at 2:00. We then will be going to an abbreviated sports banquet at 6:00 - at the high school. I'm thinking I'm missing something - but the day is going to be full.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. May 15

From a day that can't decide whether to be overcast or sunny, but either way not quite warm,

This has been a FULL day --

The girls slept well last night and that sure helps when I get a good night of sleep. Our morning with them began about 5:30. They were so glad to see us (after they had been outside) and of course needed to romp some before they settled down - about the time my alarm was to go off.

I had the typing for Mobile Meals this a.m. It went fairly well - only had one addition - and I had no problem running the "list" off. The labels were another thing in that we could only run one set at a time - mainly our problem as the third page did not have labels that extended past the middle part of the page - so we always run a second copy of page three by hand feeding the sheets. Ruth and I finally got them done, but Ruth had given up in frustration. Patty has installed a new program for us and it will be much easier to do - or at least it was for the walk through today. We only have to type changes (additions, deletions, corrections, etc.) in once rather than twice as one example. Anyway, it took a good two hours this a.m., but next Monday should be a lot shorter.

I made a trip home to see how Jim was faring with the girls (they were on his lap) so I took off to do the final xeroxing for the Jobson reunion. That is now done, placed in envelopes, and ready for distribution on the 27th. Next I made a trip to the bank for cash and then headed to HyVee for a quick shopping for items for supper. Oh, yes, earlier - I had gone by Clemens Greenhouse to get some purple wave petunias as well as six tomato plants and some so-called "burpless" cucumbers.

I followed Jim over to the track about 1:00 and did a little to help him on putting away (and making an inventory) poles so they will be ready for next year. I left there about 2:30 and came home. They I plants flowers, but will hold on to the tomato plants for a few more days as the nights are cool enough that not much growth is going to happen - also the small garden needs to be turned over again.

I have supper going now and hope to make it an early night to bed.

Jim will do some work on dismantling the standards at the pole vault pit tomorrow and Vickie will send down some girls to carry them to the storage shed. On Wednesday the porta pits and underlying frames will be stored - then the season is almost over.

I have a few errands to do tomorrow, but don't plan on doing a great many things - actually the house needs a good vacuuming and dusting - maybe that will be my project.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. Sun. May 13 & 14

From a cooler, breezy MO,

Saturday turned out to be a cool, breezy day at Excelsior Springs. We ate at HyVee and then went to the stadium as Jim was going to be riding the girls' bus to ES. I followed with the car as he planned on riding home with me. Some of you will remember Gene and Wanda Sturgess - their son, Denny, drives for our school system and he was the driver for the girls' bus yesterday.

When the sun was out on Saturday, the day was almost warm enough for me to take off my long sleeve jacket, but when the clouds came, it was a very different story - not miserably cold, but the wind was from the northwest and it was almost necessary to add my heavy sweatshirt. I did use the hood on my sweatshirt for most of the day to keep the wind off my neck and head - I'm old enough that I don't worry about fashion!

Jim's vaulters performed much to his liking yesterday, but did not qualify in the top four so as to be able to move on to the sectional this coming Saturday. The boys had two qualify for sectional and I'm thinking the girls qualified in the shot, discus, high jump, and the 4x400 relay. There were several fifth places, but that just doesn't make the cut.

We were back in Chillicothe probably about 7:00 (don't really remember). We went by the stadium so Jim could be sure the poles got off the bus. Most of the kids were picked up within minutes (thanks to cell phone calls made about 10 miles out of town), but one young girl had relatives picking her up. The girls' coach had gone on to Lexington for a wedding and we didn't want the asst. coach (male) to be left alone with the girl so we waited, and we waited, and we waited. We finally sent him on home as he lives in Brookfield and about 10 minutes later the relatives showed up. I don't know how long we waited in total, but probably between 30 to 45 minutes.

Needless to say, we were in bed early last night - and slept well.

I fixed French toast for breakfast this a.m. and later made a quick trip to HyVee for the makings of a taco salad for our supper. We spent about 30 to 45 minutes digging up the area where I plant tomatoes (so far our days have not been warm enough for any length of time to allow plants to grow), but I do hope to get tomatoes planted this week - as well as a few flowers in the pots that I use.

We are going to a graduation reception in about 2 hours. I had bought a summery outfit to wear as I didn't think I had something appropriate (because of my walrus size) and am going to shift gears to dig out the dockers and look for a long sleeve sweater as it is only maybe in the mid 50s - or less - today.

I do Mobile Meals in the a.m. This will be the first time I've done it with the new computer and new "quirks" with the system so I am hoping all goes well. Patty Mefford is coming in to help in case I have problems. Darla has worked with the system the past couple of weeks and has to some degree mastered the new quirks, but I need to experience something to learn.

If you have not checked Doug and Dara's blog site recently - Dara has currently posted two messages about their first two days in the wine country north of San Francisco. We found them quite interesting.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. May 12

From a temperate, breezy, sunny MO,

This has been a good day - or at least so far. The girls slept well last night and that certainly helps my disposition.

Jim had breakfast with the second group of old geezers this a.m. Jim Nashan may still be in the hospital at NKC as he wasn't at breakfast and Don Dupy was also absent - David Redford said Don had hurt his back.

The girls and I went through the drive through at McDonald's, returned home, and I left them briefly to go to the local xeroxing place to do another booklet for the reunion.

I had a 11:00 doctor's appointment. I don't know what happens when I go to the doctor's office, but my blood pressure always seems to go up. I also inquired as to why I had experienced morning calf cramps in the past month so a blood test was done to see if there was an issue. I eat a banana each day, but we'll just see.

Some of you will remember Amy Patel. She is attending the UMKC medical school and was following Dr. Metry today. I am not sure if this is a summer project or part of several "followings" that she will be doing in the weeks coming up.

I went down for a nap about noon - planning on a two hour nap and ended up waking up three hours later! I then scooted down to the xeroxing place to finish doing some old photos - so am now ready to do a last xeroxing next week.

The bus leaves Saturday a.m. at 8:00 for Excelsior Springs. The boys pole vault is at 11:00 with the girls at 1:00. Hopefully Jim will get a few minutes to sit down between the activities. At least ES has seats in the stands rather than bleachers - and that makes the day a lot easier. I'm thinking the last relay begins at 5:00 - so don't know what my energy level will be when we get back tomorrow evening.

Be safe.
B.

Pole vault photo

This is Jim's freshman vaulter. He tends to go 10 feet usually and will be ready for another pole next year - then should go considerably higher. I'm guessing the height is about 10 feet with this vault.

Thurs. May 11

From a blustery, miserable Thursday in MO,

We ended up doing quite a bit on Wednesday. Jim took the bulk of the large limb from the apple tree (limb had split because of decay) to the landfill yesterday morning (after his two breakfasts) as it was a "free" day to take yard debris. After track practice, we mowed the yard and also cut up into smaller pieces the rest of the limb (what wouldn't fit into the back of Jim's truck) and put it out for the landfill people to pick up today.

We went to bed very early last night - in fact my light was turned off at 8:30. The girls slept in their crate until almost 2:30 and then after a trip outside, I let them join me in bed - didn't hear from them again until almost 6:30 - and I think they heard Jim moving around. Jim has been sleeping downstairs for several weeks as he has had difficulty sleeping - and reads when he is awake.

I think we had five at breakfast this a.m. - Pat, Judy Duncan, Sandy, Clara, Kay, and yours truly. Jan and Marsha were substituting and Judy Mathew is spending some time with her mother at Bedford, Iowa. I am not sure where Mary Willis was. Everyone seems to have so many things going on that we spent quite a bit of time just trying to catch up.

Jim dozed much of the middle part of the day (of course also did some reading). I have spent much of the day getting Jobson genealogy ready to xerox on Friday. I now have it ready and am close to having another booklet ready, but will probably delay on that until the last week in case something new comes in.

I did begin reading the newest Diane Mott Davidson book last evening. I do so enjoy reading this series. I'm not sure how much reading I'll get done tonight as my eyes have had about all the computer time that I can deal with.

I'm trying a recipe from Clara tonight - mix hamburger, egg, cracker crumbs, onion, shredded cheese, etc together and make a large patty (all of this is put on aluminum foil) then add thinly sliced onions, potatoes, carrots, green pepper, etc. on top - seal the combo up with alum foil - then bake in the oven. I'm sure there are a few more things in the recipe, but this is the gist. I think it will be quite tasty.

We have only two specific items on the agenda for Friday - 11:00 doctor's appointment for me to check blood pressure and if I've lost weight (haven't) and Jim will have a shortened pole vault practice. Speaking of pole vaulting, Butch Shaffer sent a marvelous photo of Clint (the freshman) going up on the pole - almost death defying - and I've been trying to add it to the blog with no success. I then tried downloading the photo to a disc and have struck out - so need to watch how Jim does that tonight - then I can move it to the blog. You'll be astounded! It really shows why Jim probably hasn't been sleeping too well at night.

Be safe.
B.

belated Tues (May 9)

From a cooler, breezy Wed. a.m. in MO,

We arrived back in Chillicothe about 11:00 last evening, cuddled with the girls, and finally got to bed. The afternoon had started off quite warmish and very muggy in St. Joseph, but finally we had some cloud cover and the evening was quite tolerable.

Jim has been to his two breakfasts this a.m. and I joined Pat for breakfast at HyVee - then I did some minor grocery shopping.

Jim and I have now loaded the back of his truck to take most of the recently cut apple tree to the landfill (free today). What we have left can go into our chipper shredder if necessary.

We take the girls in at 11:30 for toenail trimming. I'm certainly hoping that Jim is back in time as I will need some assistance at the office if I am on my own.

I xeroxed photos yesterday for distribution at our family reunion. I now have good photos of my great-great grandparent Jobsons as well as my great grandparent Jobsons. As I remember, Harvey and Barbara had the great grandparent photos and a cousin in Nebraska located the great grandparent. She also sent photos of her grandparents (guy was a brother to my grandfather) so the collection is increasing. I'm hoping these photos will trigger others to do some searching. Oh, yes, also have a photo of a brother of my great grandfather.

I may or may not be back on line today - toe nail trimming at 11:30 and I need to be at the RSVP office at 2:00 because of difficulties with our new printer - and I start doing computer work again this coming Monday.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. May 8

From a sunny, but potentially stormy MO,

This has been a quiet day for us - or at least for me. We headed to the drive through at McDonald's about 8:30 this a.m. and then had a couple of errands to do. Jim has spent much of the day locating good track photos (he had me use the wrong setting at first and I finally switched to what I knew had worked last year) and after a lot of struggling has photos to hand to parents during the sports banquet. Butch Shaffer also helps as he sends marvelous photos to Jim, but he has a camera worth tons of money and knows how to use the various attachments.

I xeroxed this a.m. and then slept during the middle part of the day. I didn't think I was that tired, but ended up going down for two hours.

Jim is now at pole vault practice. Originally rain had been forecast for this afternoon and he was afraid he wouldn't be able to have practice, but it is really nice outside now. We did have a little moisture earlier today and storms are predicted for later this evening - with the possibility of large hail.

We leave after lunch for St. Joseph tomorrow for the Benton Relays. The seating is excellent there for the pole vault so hopefully I'll be able to get some more photos. I'm guessing we will be home late (for me) and I'll probably not be on the computer tomorrow evening.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. & Sun. May 6 & 7

From a temperate and somewhat overcast MO,

Yesterday (Sat.) was a full day for these two old fogies! We were moving by 6:30 and heading out the door a little after 7:00 to go to Country Kitchen for a good breakfast. We came back home and loaded the cooler with ice (have never needed it for an emergency when we took it with us) and headed over to the stadium. We arrived about 8:15 and the Smithville bus was just pulling up to unload. I'm not quite sure why they were that early as the coaches' meeting was at 9:00, but most teams now have tents that they set up to help keep out of the sun - so guess more time was needed.

The field events began at 10:00 and the girls' pole vaulting went first. There were only three JV and maybe 10 varsity (probably less) girls so we were over in good time. One of our varsity girls "no heighted" - meaning she did not make her opening vaulting height in three attempts. Our senior girl was second and the girl that won is a favorite of Jim's from Platte County - also saw in the KC paper this a.m. that she is number one in her graduating class!

The boys then warmed up and began their competition. There were probably twice the number of overall competitors, but this also went smoothly. It is nice to get this over before running events begin (we didn't quite make it, but had no interruptions). Our two varsity boys were second and maybe 7th.

We came over at the conclusion of the running events - arriving about 4:30. After spending some time with the girls, we headed over to Vickie and David Garrett's home. Vickie had made arrangements with a local pizza place for pizza and had also made a couple of desserts. Jim took over a couple of beers that Doug had brewed - the cream ale was a hit and two of the guys present also liked the Trappist brew. We were home before 8:00 - and completely exhausted.

I was in bed soon afterwards. I'd dealt with a bad neckache all day. I had used some arthritis strength Tylenol and it hadn't even come close to dealing with it so I shifted to Advil last evening and last night - feel much better now, but will take another one after supper - sure would like to have a good night of sleep.

We have had a lazy Sunday. I fixed French toast with the last of the apricot/cranberry bread that Pat and I bought at St. Joseph last week. I also had to use some of our regular bread, but breakfast turned out well. We made a trip to HyVee a little later.

Jim has dozed and read most of the afternoon. I decided to putter on genealogy for the Jobson reunion and now have another booklet (75 pages) ready to be xeroxed tomorrow. It is mostly filled with various Jobson articles related to Lingo, MO as well as many obituaries. I'm not sure how I came up with so many - found many actually at the Brookfield library - and Aunt Maxine also had some. Mom was a great saver of obituaries and that also helped - did manage to find her obituary today.

I am fixing a spaghetti/hamburger casserole for supper tonight. There should be plenty to have as a leftover later in the week.

Rain is in the forecast (at least it was being mentioned yesterday). We are supposed to go to St. Joseph Benton on Tuesday for a track meet - we'll see what the weather chooses to dish out.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. May 5

From a warmer, but still comfortable MO,

Five years ago was when Margaret and I spent the day at the UCLA emergency room. I can't remember exactly why I had gone out - maybe to drive Lorraine to chemo treatments or maybe Margaret was house sitting in the valley. Anyway, Lorraine had experienced a bad night and eventually decided that a.m. that we needed to get to the emergency room. Thank goodness she decided by mid morning as by afternoon, ER rooms that were supposed to house one person were housing two and the hallways were also lined with patients. At least we had somewhat of a cubby-hole for privacy.

The girls slept from a little after 10:00 last night to about 5:55 this a.m. - probably heard Jim downstairs. Anyway, I had a good night of sleep.

I headed out with the girls about 8:00 to go through the drive-thru at McDonald's to get breakfast and then we headed home. By the time we got home, I decided that I just as well deposit a check at Investor's National so we headed there - much to the delight of the girls. They were barking uproariously at the drive-thru - wonder if they remember that dog treats can be obtained here - and of course they received their treats.

We were supposed to have someone come by at 10:00 to measure the fence that needs to be replaced and to then give us an estimate. The first estimate we received was almost three times what we paid in 1988 or 1989! Of course this time they need to haul off the current aging fence so we knew it would be somewhat more - but didn't expect this much more.

Anyway, we decided to go on and start mowing until the guy arrived. I am not sure if Jim misunderstood what day the guy was coming, but he didn't show - and he is usually quite reliable. He'll probably show up on Saturday a.m. and of course we'll be at the stadium then.

I did the push mower today and I am not sure what I did wrong, but I sure wracked up my neck. I made a quick trip to HyVee before lunch so as to get meat for supper - ended up getting one tenderloin which Jim and I divided. I then took two arthritis strength Tylenol (usually take one) and headed to the bedroom - to awaken a little more than two hours later - with some relief, but not much.

I took a tour of Clara's home this afternoon. She is such a neat person to know. Her home has so many family touches which I so enjoy rather than austere appearing rooms. Don was playing golf when I arrived and came home about the time I was needing to leave.

Jim's kids had an excellent afternoon of pole vault practice. You expect the worst after an injury or a broken pole, but the kids were doing things right. Maybe Jim will get some sleep tonight as he worried until about 3:00 this a.m.

We have a full day on Saturday. We will have a good breakfast at Country Kitchen and then be at the stadium by 9:00 - or knowing Jim - earlier. The girls begin vaulting at 10:00 with the boys to follow. Uusally conference is over by 4:00 - or shortly thereafterward. After coming home and showering, we are heading over to David and Vickie Garrett's for a rehash of the day along with pizza and a dessert that her mom is making.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. May 4

From a somewhat overcast and a little above temperate MO,

This has been sort of a quiet day for us - or at least until Jim returned from pole vault practice.

The girls had a good night - and that means I had a good night. I was only up with them about 1:00, tucked them back in their sleeping crate, and then heard Jim moving around about 5:30 and he took them outside. They joined me in bed until about 6:30.

We had a fewer number at breakfast this a.m. - Clara, Pat, Marsha Leopard, Sandy, and yours truly. I'm not quite sure where everyone else was, will maybe find out next week.

Abby is currently sitting on my lap. About 15 minutes ago I found Trixie with a very dirty, yucky chew in her mouth - which she didn't want to relinquish. She finally did and it was so bad I wasn't sure I wanted to touch it. Evidently Abby may have been the one to dig it up as Jim then discovered that Abby had a filthy face. She had come into the computer room to be with me and I held her while Jim washed her face - still needs a little more work on it. She wasn't a happy camper and is now on my lap and draped over my left arm. Typing is not the easiest in this position.

Today was the day for errands - mailed a package to Canada - had to fill out special papers as a result, Westlake's for cards (paper last night and a photo of RC and Carole Myers and their upcoming 50th anniversary), Martin House for a wedding gift, later delivered the wedding gift, delivered a graduation gift, made a trip to HyVee, did some minor shopping at HyVee, and have spent some "catch-up" time on the computer. Oh, yes, there was also a quick trip to where I xerox.

Jim came home from pole vault practice in a rough mindset - a pole had broken with one of his vaulters. No one was hurt (this would be my major concern), but he knows it is a pole that needs to be replaced for next year and he hates ending the year knowing that a requisition needs to be made already. I just keep thinking that the kid wasn't hurt and that is the major consideration. I keep telling him that it is a wonder that poles don't break more often as they are stored in the dressing rooms during track season and I know they have to be a temptation for others to try and they need to be held correctly or harm can come to the pole and the person using it.

We are hoping to mow our yard tomorrow. The ground is still mushy, but for sure we won't get to it on Saturday and I've not looked at the weather for Sunday - and the grass is probably past a day or two of needing mowing already. I have a few short projects that I would like to get finished tomorrow - one thing is locating mom's obituary in one of the storage boxes downstairs - I know it is there, but which box?

Be safe.
B.

Wed. May 3

Keyboard is working again --

Pat and I made a trip to St. Joseph to Best Buy on Monday and the result of the diagnostic test was that we had used up too much memory for the keyboard to be able to work. I had them add more memory and then a local kid came by today to attach all the wires as well as load a program called Spyware. He has did a defragmentation as well as a few other items. Jim and I also intend to go through some of our things to see what can be deleted - anyway, it is marvelous to be back on line!!!!

We had rain last night - and luckily the girls slept through the first round and when they needed to go outside - we were having a moment of no rain. They hadn't been back inside too long when we had another round of rain - both had been accompanied with thunder and lightning.

Jim has now headed over to the track and will have practice if the weather cooperates. Chillicothe hosts the MEC meet on Saturday and then we begin going into district, sectional, and state. In between there will be one meet at St. Joseph Benton - so the end is sort of coming into sight.

Some of you know Liz Cunningham. She gave such a marvelous talk at Dayle Russell funeral. Chuck's column in the Ad Pages today indicated that she is dealing with cancer. I need to get a card off to her. Donna - you probably know what is going on and I would appreciate your sharing it with me.

We really haven't done that much in recent days - track practice, playing with girls, trip to St. Joseph, lunch today at the bowling alley, and I am reading a marvelous book - MARLEY AND ME - am thinking the author's name is Grogan - anyway it is on the best seller list. If you are an animal lover - get the book.

I join the ladies for breakfast in the a.m. and beyond that we don't have much planned. I need to get a reply off to Canada relative to a wedding that is happening at St. Catherine's, Ontario. The significance of this place is that my great, great grandparents lived there for fifteen or so years while he worked on the Welland Canal.

I am also wanting to finish up some genealogy paperwork so I can get to a local xerox place and get it finished for the Jobson reunion. I have about three sections left and would like to get at least two of them done either this week or the first part of next week - shouldn't be a problem with the keyboard working again.

Be safe.
B.