Mon. July 31

From a hot and muggy MO -- actually hot might not be extreme enough!

The girls and Jim slept well last night. I got up with the girls about 4:30 and then didn't hear another thing from them until just before 7:00 when Jim was stirring. I climbed into my clothes from Sunday and took off on a surface street stroll. Actually I made good time until about 2 or 3 blocks from here and then the humidity and heat began to take a toll. My shower felt good at home - used a cool water - but it took a couple of hours for me to stop sweating.

I did use the sweeper at home, but at a lesiurely pace - wanted to get this done before it would interfere with Jim's television. He had a good workout at rehab this a.m. and was ready to rest when he got home.

When he did get home, I took off on some errands - xerox, post office, and HyVee. It was good to get home and cool off. We did get out about 11:00 to go to our new coffee shop to have our anniversay "celebration" with a cool drink.

Jim had trouble staying away from the fence area after he returned from rehab. He disappeared on me and I found him moving some items away from the fence as Duke was coming this a.m. to begin the repair of the fence. Needless to say I wasn't happy and asked him if he wanted to start making funeral arrangements - or I would make the arrangements for him. He admitted later in the day that his outside tasks had really wiped him out. Oh, well - I know he feels frustrated that he can't do much, but I figure doing a little is better than being six feet under!

We watched tv for most of the afternoon. Jim dozed briefly in the recliner about 4:00 - but otherwise we did not go down for a significant nap.

I had a yellow warning light come on today - actually came on Saturday, but when I turned the engine off it didn't come on again. I was heading out on my morning errands and went by Barnes Baker so they could see the light on - then took the car in later - of course the part needed isn't in stock, but will be ordered. I need to go by in the a.m. and see when it should be in.

At this point we don't have much planned for Tuesday. I will do some weekly shopping at HyVee so as to get the "old geezer" discount, but plan on mildewing for most of the day.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. July 30

From a hot and muggy MO -- this is beginning to read like a duplicate letter!

We slept/dozed well last night. Jim didn't roust the girls until about 7:00 this a.m. Even then I had trouble getting out of bed. I knew I should walk, but it was already in the upper 70s and I just couldn't bring myself to get out of bed.

We did a stroll of WalMart this a.m. Jim is picking up more and more speed in his walking, but has found that he walks much easier in a/c than in our current humidity. The papers were still showing that we might get some relief on Wednesday evening.

I am reading the newest Joanna Carl book (all center around a small lake town in Michigan and lots of chocolate to be enjoyed). I find myself reading a chapter and then taking on a small project, but that makes the projects easier.

Jim has rehab on Monday a.m. and if I can get out of bed early enough, I really need to take a stroll on our streets - or head to the Y. I need to get some errands done and marked off my list of things to do - then I will curl up with a book again.

We don't get out in the afternoon when they are talking heat in the upper 90s with the heat index into the 100s.

Tomorrow is our 35th wedding anniversary. Jim has a card for me tucked with his underclothes - and I am afraid I am just as bad. We are thinking about eating lunch out - the weather will make us choose either Chillicothe or Huckleberry's at Trenton. I love their stuffed tomato.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. July 29

From a hot and muggy MO,

We are having another day of heat. I'm not sure what the final temperature was, but at a little after 2:00 the weather channel was indicating 97 degrees with a heat index of 105.

Jim and I used Tylenol PM last night with him getting a good night of dozing in the recliner and I had a relatively good night of sleep in bed. We left here about 8:00 this a.m. to head to Kansas City - still hadn't decided exactly where we were going, but since Jim will be needing the final six books of the Alexander Kent series we decided to go to the Border's at about 90th and Metcalf. That store had five of the books and the store at 119th and Metcalf had the missing book so after buying the first five we headed on south to the second store.

Since we were so close to Town Center, we headed east to get a wedding gift at Williams Sonoma -- then reversed our field to the Liberty area - eating good salads at O'Charley's. We were back in Chillicothe a little before 2:00.

Jim tried dozing on our bed using the wedge and it worked reasonably well except for his arms which wanted to go numb. Next time we will try using pillows to elevate his arms somewhat. He still worries about accidentally turning over so I think he will probably continue to use the recliner for the time being.

I need to water again outside this evening - has become a daily task and if the heat continues maybe even twice a day. I think we are to have cooler weather come Wednesday or Thursday - and maybe the possibility of a few showers. Until then - we just hope the electricity continues to flow!

We will use Sunday to rest up and also to enjoy the morning newspapers.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. July 28

From a hot and muggy MO,

This has been a rather full day. Jim dozed well with the help of Tylenol PM last night and I was fortunate enough for the girls to also sleep well. Jim had rehab this a.m. and then went on to join the second group of old men for breakfast. I left here about 8:00 to walk the surface streets - probably did 3/4 to a mile - should check the distance in the car. I stopped once and visited with Terri May. I was quite drenched when I got home, but the heat was bearable.

I did a couple of errands today including taking medicine bottles to HyVee to be refilled and then had a doctor's appt. at 11:00. I had lost four pounds, but I think in reality I maybe had lost 3 as some was from getting so warm walking. I consumed water when I got home from walking, but --- My blood pressure was a little higher than I would have wanted -- 132/82.

I did some early supper preparation and put the finished product in the crockpot and then tried taking a nap - just couldn't relax enough to really rest. Jim did join the girls and me in bed and seemed to doze some and I didn't hear the nasty wheezing as usual. There was a little wheezing, but nothing compared to a week ago.

I joined Helen and Mary at our new "coffee" shop this afternoon at 4:00. I can't imagine going to play tennis in this heat - hopefully no one will become ill as a result.

Depending on how we sleep tonight, we may head to KC to get a wedding gift tomorrow. The girl is not listed locally. We will leave early and try to be back before the worst of the heat - am thinking they are talking upper 90s or low 100s for tomorrow.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. & Thurs. July 26 & 27

From an overcast, already hot and muggy MO,

I couldn't get on-line Wednesday evening so will do a double letter today. Jim had rehab Wed. a.m. and then joined the second breakfast group. He had not slept well Tuesday night - probably due to ice tea and a chocolate brownie and was exhausted. He spent much of the middle part of the day in bed - doing some sleeping. He took a Tylenol PM last night and seemed to get a good rest.

I walked yesterday a.m. on surface streets. I did this a little after 7:00 and I was drenched when I returned home. I am guessing I made almost a mile. When Jim got up from dozing, I turned in for a two hour nap.

I think both of us slept much better Wednesday night. I went to bed much earlier than usual which meant an extra time of getting up with the girls, but even they were in and out of their sleeping crate for over 9 hours.

We had ten for breakfast this a.m. - Pat, Clara, Jan, Sandy, Mary W., Mary D., Laurinda, Margaret, Jean Schottel, and yours truly. Conversation flowed at a steady pace for all of the time we were together.

When I got home, Jim was ready to do errands. We tried to figure out how we could get relatively close to the new Lowe's under construction as well as Applebee's. We then walked the perimeter of WalMart.

I have some puttering that I need to do today - a wedding gift, sympathy card to send, strawberries to get ready for supper, etc. A nap also probably will be included.

Jim will have rehab again on Friday a.m. and I check in at Dr. Metry's office in the a.m. for a blood pressure check as well as the infamous scales.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. July 25

From a HOT MO,

I looked at the weather channel at 5:00 this afternoon and we were being listed at 95 degrees with a humidity index of 98 - just too hot for me.

Jim finally used a Tylenol PM last night and dozed better than usual in the recliner. I didn't hear him moving until after 7:00 this a.m. He had slept through my taking the girls out at 5:00 - so he has been in somewhat of a better mood today.

We walked this a.m. He struggles going up the slight slope past Chuck Haney's home and Mary Lightner's driveway, but then he seems to do okay. We walked to the beginning of 15th street this a.m. before he was ready to return home. He will have rehab again on Wednesday a.m.

After our usual oatmeal for breakfast, we did some errands. First I had my glasses adjusted - much better now - then on to the car wash where Jim took care of the coins and changing what was being done while I handled the wand. Then we went on to the post office and then back to HyVee where we took advantage of the "senior" discount.

Jim dozed in the bedroom during the mid part of the day and I dozed after he got up. We are getting ready to go across the street to Stilwell's as Jeanette wanted to fry fish this evening. I made a batch of brownies this morning to take.

We don't have specific plans for Wednesday other than Jim going to rehab and then the rest of the day trying to stay out of the heat.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. July 24

From a warmer MO,

This has been a full day so far. The girls slept well last night and I didn't hear anything from them until about 5:00 and after going outside, they seemed to want to return to their sleeping crate (I think they like their treat) and I didn't hear from them again until 6:00 when Jim was moving around.

Jim took a book over to John Wheeler (the Kinky Friedman book) before he went on to rehab. I left here about 7:30 for the RSVP office. My first inclination that the day was going to go wrong was when I turned the computer and printer on and it said the ink cartridge was low. I went into the machine (or at least tried to) to see how low the cartridge was and couldn't find the place where a percentage would be displayed. I decided to just keep using the printer until the ink was obviously almost gone. There were only a few easy changes on the list today and I was then ready to begin the labels - when the so called new printer (maybe 3 months old) decided to take in only one label sheet at a time and then if it only wanted it. When you end up running 36 sheets (3 sheets to a set) and each set has to be started again from scratch (we used to run one set and do a double check - then would run 11 sets) the morning seemed long. Thank goodness Ruth showed up as she xeroxed the needed sheets for the hospital and put them together as well as wrote two checks and balanced the checkbook. We also then pooled out minds and wrote a thank you note to a recent widow where Mobile Meals had been listed as a possible memorial. Anyway, a process that usually takes maybe a little over one hour took two -- oh, well.

I next went by the outpatient clinic to see when a St. Luke's cardiologist would be coming (comes on Thursdays) and wondered if there would be an opening for Jim - there wasn't. I thought this might save us a trip to KC, but of course first I need to get Jim to make a phone call - which he seems to delay doing.

We left here a little after 10:00 to go to Liberty to pick up his repaired hearing aide - then went to O'Charley's for lunch - then made a trip to Sam's. We do like the tilipia (individually wrapped) that we can get there and ended up also get a large bag of frozen blueberries - Jim also loves these.

Jim is now trying to get my attention to do some trimming on his hair - he is so trusting - he forgets how livid I was when he pulled on the cord to get the lawnmower going - oh, well --

We don't have too much on the agenda for Tuesday. The small area between Haney's and our driveway needs mowing - will take maybe 10 minutes. There is the possibility of rain during the mid part of the week so this needs to be done before we do have rain. We need to refill the car with gas and then maybe go to the Y to do some minor walking.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. & Sun. July 22 and 23rd

From another day of relative coolness in MO,

We have been very fortunate in that we have escaped the storms that St. Louis and its surrounding area have experienced. I think the KC Star this a.m. indicated that over 400,000 homes and businesses were without electricity (thank goodness the temp the last couple of days has been cooler, but it is supposed to warm up again). I know electrical workers have been sent to St. Louis to help get electricity flowing again and one of the KC tv stations indicated this a.m. that hospital personnel are also being sent.

We spent much of Saturday recuperating from our trip to KC on Friday (and Jim also over doing it at the Y on Thursday). I did get the riding lawn mower out yesterday afternoon and cut the grass in the abbreviated backyard of the girls. I had also gotten the push mower out to do the perimeter of that space as it hadn't been done in several mowings - and guess who started it with the pull cord - Jim!!!! I was livid!!! He wanted to be proud of himself, but I'm afraid I saw nothing positive in his actions.

Pat Nichols had loaned me a book a couple of months ago - PROMISES TO KEEP by Hy and Barbara Brett. It had been sitting on the dining room table all this while and I picked it up yesterday - then had a difficult time putting it down. I finished it a little after 10:00 last night - headed to the bedroom and the girls didn't even attempt getting on the bed - just headed right to their sleeping crate. I didn't hear anything from them until almost 5:00 this a.m. - took them outside - and they returned to the crate until Jim wandered through the bedroom about 6:30.

Jim had another restless night. I suggested that we go to Country Kitchen this a.m. for a plain waffle - which we did - and then we walked the perimeter of WalMart. When we got home, Jim tried taking a nap on the bed, but eventually gave up and is now in the recliner. After sleeping so well last night I thought that I would make it today with out a nap, but already at 10:30, I am ready to go down.

We did go to the local Farmer's Market yesterday and bought some zucchini, tomatoes, and a cantaloupe. I need to fix the latter a little later today and get the mess out to the composte container. We have been eating sugar free angel food cake as an evening dessert - along with either strawberries or canned fruit (that has used Splenda).

Monday a.m. will be active for us as Jim has rehab at 8:00 and I do the Mobile Meals computer work in the a.m. Either on Monday or Tuesday we will return to Liberty to get Jim's hearing aide that has been repaired. Monday is to be cooler than Tuesday, but we'll see how Jim feels after rehab.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. July 21

From a cooler MO,

Today has been delightful. I think the temp was in the mid 60s when we left Chillicothe this a.m. - about 8:30 - for Liberty. We were in light rain until almost Cameron.

Oh, that reminds me. The girls and I slept in until about 7:00 and by that time we were getting a delightful rain. Of course they needed to go outside so I grabbed an umbrella and out we went - or at least Trixie went out - Abby quickly returned to the sliding glass door - evidently didn't want to get wet as she did her morning puddling. I had an umbrella so picked up Abby and out to the grass we went with the umbrella over both of us and she had a long puddle. I would not have been surprised if this had been Trixie as Abby is usually the brave one.

We first went to the Liberty Hospital where Jim left his broken hearing aide with the tech person at Dr. Luce's office. Then we headed to the admitting area where I needed to update my file so I could get my annual mammogram. I was surprised when I got to the "holding" area in the mammogram area as no other women were there - usually there are at least three or four. I need to ask Dr. Metry about this. I mentioned to the tech person about my tick bite and she put a "marker" on it - and I was quickly through the yearly procedure.

Jim and I then headed to Borders where his book had arrived. Then we backtracked to Red Lobster for an early lunch. We then backtracked some more to the hospital and headed up to the fourth floor to see Vickie. She and Diana Boyd were wheeling Vickie's mom to the elevator to head to the radiation area. Jim and I went on to the room where David and Larry told us that Wednesday would be the last day for radiation and then Mrs. Melte would be transported to Chillicothe to a swing bed at Hedrick. She will begin chemo and see how that goes. The family is spending a lot of time with her as they don't see much chance of her getting better.

I drove to the NKC area this a.m. and also drove home. Jim was quite tired (am thinking he was still tired from over doing it on Thursday at the Y) and he dozed much of the way home. I didn't think I was that tired, but evidently a good size lunch did its trick on me and I headed to the bedroom when we got back - just before 2:00 - and slept until 5:00!

We have just pieced on leftovers this evening as both of us ate a lot more than usual at noon. We have sat outside some as there is a delightful breeze from the north - and of course the girls love to be on our laps.

We are hoping to go through the Farmer's Market area in the a.m. to look for some fresh veggies - and then have nothing specific planned for the rest of the day. Oh, yes, I do need to mow the backyard area as it is much easier to do a "poop swoop" if the grass is shorter.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. July 20

From what has been a very hot MO,

Jim slept in the recliner again last night. He was heading to the Y about the time I was heading to join the ladies for breakfast. When I returned he was exhausted - just won't use common sense. First the elevator wasn't working so he walked the two flights of steps to the walking area. Then he said he was on the treadmill for about 9 minutes and then walked two laps. Dumb, dumb, and dumb!

We had maybe 11 had breakfast this a.m. - the table was overflowing - Pat, Jean Schottel, Mary D., Laurinda, Sandy, Judy Duncan, Kay Green, Clara, Jan, Mary W., and yours truly. Needless to say, the conversation was moving so fast that there was no way I could keep up.

Jim was heading to bed to take a nap when I returned home at 9:00. He was going to try the wedge on the bed, but found out that he had the tendency to begin to turn over on one side or the other - and we're not sure his sternum is ready for that yet.

I had a hair cut this a.m., joined Pat at the new coffee/cafe at 11:15 and had delicious quiche, went to the Senior Center for a 12:15 RSVP meeting, and then went next door to the libary. This latter meeting wasn't until 1:30, but I had some things I had neglected reading and also enjoyed visiting with Judith and Phyllis.

The afternoon was spent indoors as the temp reached close to 100 and the heat index was supposedly 107. When I watered about 30 minutes ago, the temp. had dropped and there was almost a cool breeze from the north. This is the first time in several days that I didn't come in drenched from sweating after doing my minor watering.

We are leaving here about 8:30 in the a.m. to head to Liberty as I have my annual mammogram. We had planned on meeting Vickie for lunch, but will instead stop by and see her when we are ready to leave. We had a call yesterday from Border's that Jim's book had arrived so we will also pick it up.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. July 19

From a HOT, HOT MO,

Jim slept in the recliner again last night. The girls were good for me and I took them outside about 1:30 and then didn't hear anything from them until almost 6:00. I still managed to take a two hour nap this afternoon.

Jim headed to rehab a little before 8:00 this a.m. and I headed to the Y with the intentions of walking for 30 minutes - quit after 15 as I was building up a sweat and getting tired. I'll get back after it again tomorrow at some point. Jim called me about 9:00 as he was heading down to the Grand River Inn to join the second breakfast group.

When he got home and had rested a few minutes, we headed to WalMart to stroll the perimeter and also to get a few items - mainly toiletries. We stopped at HyVee on the way home. The first thing we noticed was a grocery cart with a couple of bags and a woman's purse go rolling past us - with no human in close sight. I retrieved the cart and began looking for the "owner" and spotted an older lady being assisted by a younger lady - seemed to be looking for something. I got their attention and returned cart, purse, and groceries to the lady. I am glad the cart didn't hit the car (or any car) as a good size dent would have been made as it had really picked up some speed. Jim sat in the car with the a/c going while I went in to utilize the "senior" discount again today.

I fixed refried bean burritos this a.m. and went on and baked them. I am not sure whether I'll use the microwave to heat them tonight or tomorrow, but knew I didn't want to have the oven on in this heat - supposed to be in the low 100s today with a heat index about 10 degrees higher. I also put a piece of salmon in the crockpot this a.m. as Jim is hungry for salmon patties. I'll probably fix them tonight as I have a full day on Thursday.

Jim will probably go to the Y on Thursday to walk. I have breakfast with the ladies, monthly haircut, RSVP board meeting, and library board meeting. I'll be ready for an easy meal tomorrow evening.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. July 18

From a warm, but not blistering MO,

Today has almost been a cool spell - rather then heat index in the 100 teens, today was probably more in the low to mid 90s. I may actually be able to sit on the deck tonight and begin another book.

Abby is currently on my lap with her head and right forearm on my left arm. She seems to delight in the time that I am on the computer and makes every attempt to beat Trixie to the prime spot. Trixie has been spending more and more time on Jim's lap - much to his delight even though she has to be watched more closely than Abby.

I did errands early this a.m. including filling the car with gas - almost didn't even work up a sweat doing it this a.m. Jim had a 10:30 appointment with cardio rehab this a.m. and it was more asking a lot of questions, etc. He is scheduled for M, W, and Fri from 8:00 until 9:30. He is insisiting he is going to Liberty with me this Friday, but since I joined the YMCA this a.m. for us, we can still get to the Y and walk.

I slept really well last night and thought I would make it today without a nap, but about 11:30, I became quite tired and after we did a quick walk at HyVee, I was soon in bed and took a good nap.

Jim will miss his breakfast with the "old fogies" for several weeks because of rehab and I know he will miss this chance to be with them. Maybe after he gets established, he can see if there is any leeway in scheduling as I think the outing with the guys is good for him.

I finished WIDOW OF THE SOUTH by Robert Hicks last night. I am not sure I would have had the "guts" to survive war on the homefront. I am glad I read the Epilogue and Author's Notes first as they provide the historical basis for the fictional book.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. July 17

Am not sure what just happened, but for some reason the computer indicated it had "published" my blog and I hadn't put anything on it.

From a HOT, HOT MO,

Jim spent the night in the recliner and the girls gave me an outing about 1:00 and then I didn't hear from them again until after 5:00. I feel like a human being today.

Jim and I set out on errands a little after 9:00 this a.m. - including walking the perimeter of WalMart. Our first stop actually was the cardio rehab unit at Hedrick with Jim discovering he will begin rehab at 10:30 on Tuesday a.m. I am not sure what the schedule will be for the rest of the week, but Jim will take a calendar and will hopefully write it down. I'll go by the YMCA after his rehab tomorrow and renew our membership.

Doug had come across a signed copy of Kinky Friedman's new book at Book People in Austin prior to his coming to KC. Today the book arrived and Jim is in the recliner laughing so hard that I am not sure how his chest is going to handle it, but Jim is in seventh heaven with the Kinky humor. Dara - I'm sure Doug never gets around to reading this so please pass along a big THANK YOU to both of you.

The xerox machine was still down at the RSVP office this a.m. so I went by and picked up the needed paperwork while Darla was guiding Ron Wilder through the process of what needs to be done. Ron will be our new addition to the Monday group. I need to go by the State Bank and sign the new paperwork as each time someone is added to having the ability to right checks, a new form is created.

We have been watching HD tv this afternoon. The first thing Jim came across was on the Sea of Cortez - which he has fond memories of snorkeling. Then we watched a documentary on Maryland - makes you want to go visit. Then we watched the last of a documentary on Willa Cather - made me realize that I don't think I've read any of her books. I am going to check the on-line catalog for our local library and see if any are available on CD or audio tape. My car will do CD as well as audio tape, but the truck only has a CD.

We made a trip to the new coffee shop this a.m. and Jim thoroughly enjoyed the cold frappe - Turtle - that we ordered. I think he savored each sip.

Our schedule for Tuesday is light - first day of rehab for Jim, I need to go by State Bank, and we need to go by the YMCA. We'll also go by HyVee as Tuesday and Wednesday are discount days for senior citizens - and I don't mind taking advantage of that.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. July 16

From another HOT day in MO,

I watered heavily last night and am afraid I may have lost my four green peppers. We had received an inch of rain a couple of nights ago so I had not watered the next night - and I'm afraid I will pay the price. When I looked at the green pepper plants this a.m. they continued to look sick.

Jim tried sleeping in bed last night and was asleep each time I was awake, but he seems to wheeze when he is in bed - even with some elevation. This does not seem to occur in the recliner so he is returning to the recliner tonight - or that is what he is saying now.

I used the riding lawnmower and did much of the yard today. Jim was quite frustrated about being an observer and I was furious with him when I realized he had handled the two planks that we use to get the mower out of the shed. Needless to say, I lifted them from the ground afterwards and put them away.

We have dozed once today, but not for nearly as long as Saturday afternoon. I think actually we slept somewhat better last night.

We made a couple of trips to HyVee today. The morning trip was a little more extensive and he had a good stroll on several aisles. This afternoon we went to get orange juice as I thought maybe that would break up some of the gunk in his throat. He is not running an elevated temp so I don't think he has pneumonia.

He has a couple of phone calls to make tomorrow - one to St. Luke's to ask about when he can "legally" drive and also to ask about the gunk in his throat. If need be, we can get him in to see Dr. Metry if the lady at St. Luke's thinks that is appropriate.

I have a few errands to run in the a.m. - otherwise I plan on taking it easy. I am going by the Y to see about resuming our membership as it is too hot to walk even in the a.m. and Jim feels better about himself if he can get out and walk.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. July 15

From a HOT MO,

I am guessing it was at least 100 today and the KC paper indicates the next four days will be equally hot - oh, my!

Jim slept fairly well last night and I did until about 1:30 when I hot very irritated at Jim - with him in the front room and completely unawares. I dreamed that one of his male buddies was encouraging him to drive the truck and also to drive the riding lawnmower. I think he could probably manage the truck - if he took his time, but the riding lawnmower would put him back in St. Luke's with his sternum needed to be reset. I was absolutely furious and let his "good" buddy take him to the hospital and bring him home - and take care of his needs. Maybe all of this is getting to me as well?

We left here about 8:30 to go to the Liberty area. I needed to get some binding for the current hooked rug project and also some wool yarn to use around the edge. From there we went to Bed, Bath, and Beyond and a good salesperson immediately took us to the wedge area - and Jim's eyes really lighted up. From there we went to Border's where we bought the next nine books in the Alexander Kent series (with one gap and it is being ordered) - hopefully it will be here by next Friday when I need to go to Liberty for my yearly mammogram. The Border's at about 90th and Metcalf has ordered for us before - and then send them to us - no postage added - can't figure out this NKC store. Anyway, even if we end up paying postage, it will be cheaper than making a special trip there.

We ate at O'Charley's - Jim had his beloved pecan crusted chicken salad and I had a grilled chicken Casear salad.

We were back in Chillicothe a little after 1:00 and we were soon down for a nap. The wedge really let Jim get some good sleep - or maybe he was also worn out. He actually handled the trip quite well, but I usually let him off at the door of a store and we weren't outside a great deal - already quite warm this a.m.

We plan on resting on Sunday, but I do need to get outside in the a.m. and do a quick riding lawnmower trim on the yard. The rain we had the other night has really made the grass grow in some areas.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. July 14

From another hot day, but at least not as humid --

We had approximately an inch of rain last night. I thought there would be limbs to pick up this a.m. because of the strong wind, but none are clearly visible.

We had a good night with Jim getting some much needed rest (finally broke down and took a Tylenol PM) and the girls slept well for me. Jim joined the second group of "old geezers" for breakfast this a.m. while I did a few errands and then joined some of the "ladies" for a mid morning coffee at the new coffee/tea shop on the west side of the square. I had what was called a turtle frappe - chilled - and it was excellent.

Jim wanted to have refried bean burritos for supper tonight and they are currently in the oven. He also asked for salad so I will cater to that desire as well. Actually the timer just went off on the stove so I need to get the salad in order.

I am not sure what Saturday will bring. We bought the bed rest (usually I think of it as used for reading) and it is too vertical. Jim is wanting to go to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to see if they have an inclined foam pillow. That would probably be our best source. We'll see how the night goes and maybe make a very quick trip to Liberty.

Tom - how are things going on Big Bear with the wild fire?

Be safe.
B.

Wed. & Thurs. July 12 & 13

From a HOT & MUGGY MO!!!!

We have really been having the humidity the past few days. I am sure it is in the mid to upper 90s today and they humidity must be almost as high - with no rain in the forecast although the clouds are billowing.

Jim seems to continue to make progress each day. He joined the early a.m. group for breakfast on Wednesday. Dr. Eden picked him up and returned him home. I had planned on taking him and then doing a few errands - rather, Jim accompanied me on errands after he had rested about 30 minutes from his first outing. The walk on Wednesday was indoors at WalMart.

I joined Pat Nichols for lunch on Wednesday at the Pizza Hut. It is amazing what salt can do for me as when I weighed in the a.m. - the scales showed at least a two pound gain. We did check out the new coffee/tea shoppe on the west side of the square (where the Calico Pony used to be.)

Jim dozed in the recliner again last night and I wrestled the girls. I had neglected to take food up last evening and later water - and ended up taking them outside about 11:00, again at 1:00 ish, again at 3:00 ish and finally put them in their kitchen pen about 6:00 this a.m. Needless to say, I took a nap this afternoon (had not taken one on Wednesday - first full day of no nap since bringing Jim home.)

We had eight at breakfast this a.m. - Sandy, Clara, Jan, Sharon McCall, Mary D., Margaret, Jean Schottel, and yours truly. Sharon has been busy taking care of her husband and Jean was able to get free for awhile this a.m. - good to have them there.

Jim and I left here a little before 11:00 to head to Trenton. He wanted to try to find something at the Ben Franklin store, but struck out. We had a light lunch at Huckleberry's - Jim tuna on a croissant and I had a homegrown!!!! tomato stuffed with crabmeat - marvelous. We actually by passed the usual dessert. Next we went to Pamida where we found a back "wedge" rest and Jim has tried in out already on the bed - much better than being flat.

Pat Nichols wasn't with us for breakfast this a.m. as Cole Nichols (Scott and Karen's younger son) had an emergency appendectomy last evening. Actually the surgery was closer to 11 to midnight - so Pat was quite tired this a.m. They were able to do it laproscopicly (spelling) so healing should occur much faster.

Jim plans on joining the Friday breakfast group in the a.m. and I am joining some of the ladies at the new coffee shop (about 9:00) for coffee or tea as well as a sweet. Beyond that we don't have anything planned except an outing to HyVee or WalMart so Jim can walk in airconditioning.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. July 11

From a warmish, humid MO,

This has been a quiet day so far - just what these old bones need.

The girls were restless last night and I didn't get as much sleep as needed, but eventually they settled down and we stayed asleep until about 7:00. Jim used the recliner again last night and was asleep each time I took the girls outside.

We did some errands this a.m. including a stroll of HyVee where it was senior discount day - and I find that hard to pass up. It is also good for Jim to see people.

Bobby (my cousin) came by this afternoon as he had dropped off his better half at HyVee to do some grocery shopping.

We had our first fresh tomato and bacon (actually turkey bacon) sandwich today at noon. Chuck had brought by a few tomatoes yesterday and my mouth has been drooling. I can't say the turkey bacon is as good as regular bacon, but I still was able to devour the sandwich. We are finishing off leftovers for supper tonight. Jim has indicated he is ready for some fish tomorrow.

Jim is hoping to join the early breakfast group on Wednesday, but will skip the second as he doesn't think he has that much endurance - can join them on Friday. He also sees Dr. Metry tomorrow afternoon. I'll be glad to have someone else take a look at his various incisions as they look like they are mending well to me, but ---

Be safe.
B.

Sun. and Mon. 9&10

From a muggy, dampish MO,

We had a full day (considering our slowness) on Sunday. We opted to go to HyVee for breakfast (Jim had oatmeal and toast) and then we strolled a couple of aisles to get some needed items. We napped the mid part of the day and then there was a track meet on at 2:00 which Jim watched and then when commercials were on worked on accumulated e-mail. He was tired last night and spent the night in the recliner again.

He was still dozing when I left about 7:30 this a.m. to go to the RSVP office. It turned out that Darla also had written today down, but with complications with a xerox machine, it turned out that all three (including Ruth) were used. I didn't get back home until after 10:00.

Jim and I then headed to WalMart to see if we could find a "wedge" pillow for him to use in bed as Pat suggested that might duplicate the support he gets in the recliner. We struck out. We then went to the bowling alley where each of us had a "house" salad and then split a sandwich.

We have dozed this afternoon with Jim trying it in bed, but finds the discomfort of getting in and out of bed worse than in the recliner so he will return to the recliner tonight.

We have leftovers for tonight and tomorrow night as well as fresh corn on the cob, peaches, and tomatoes that Chuck Haney brought over. The weight is going off, but we are eating well.

We have no specific plans for Tuesday other than doing some minor walking on the driveway, resting, and just taking care of ourselves.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. & Sat. Jul 7 & 8

From an almost temperate MO,

I am not sure rain is in the forecast for tomorrow, but I can tell you that we definitely need some. The crack in the backyard that I wasn't able to fill with water a couple of weeks ago is longer and wider now. I'm actually toying with putting some potting soil in it so the girls won't break a leg - and it now only early July!

Jim has had two good days. He has found that dozing in the recliner is much easier than getting out of a regular bed - when he only dozes. He spent Friday night in the recliner and tried using the bed today, but that didn't last long.

We took an outing this a.m. with me doing the driving and Jim in the backseat again - of the truck. We checked out the progress of Lowe's, the newest mural in town, and finally made it to WalMart. Jim had a list of a couple of items (not close together) and I had maybe 3 items - so Jim got a good walk in while holding on to the grocery cart. We stopped at the Saturday market on the way home and although I was parked close, he opted to roll the windows down and just let me browse.

I should be getting caught up on sleep. I went to bed about 8:30 Friday night and didn't get up with the girls until 2:00 - and that was for maybe 15 minutes - went quickly back to sleep and didn't rouse again until almost 7:00. After the a.m. errands, I dozed for a couple of hours and have also dozed again this afternoon.

I did make a trip to Dr. Metry's yesterday as I had foolishly crawled into our guest bed on Sunday night at some point and knew there was debris floating, but conked out anyway. I use the bed to store extra washed wool and had moved it and Jim had loaded the bed down with items packed and ready to go to Canada. Doug had unloaded the bed for me on Saturday when we were here. Anyway, I quickly felt an eye irritation developing and finally went the doctor. I didn't think it was what I had experienced in the past - otherwise would have called and asked for a new prescription. Anyway, I'm somewhat better today, but still have a ways to go. I guess about two or three years of dust were also on the bedspread as I don't think anyone has used the bed since Margaret was here last.

I have supper in the crockpot - leftovers from Sandy McGinnis with a few additions and will heat up some fresh green beans that Sandy Ross brought over on Friday. Jim loves green beans. I have some fresh fruit as well as some jello that we can have for dessert. Jim's weight loss has slowed down, but he continues to lose weight.

We don't have anyspecific plans for Sunday other than enjoying the two newspapers - I've still to get to the ones that came today - guess that is an evening project.

Be safe.
B.

Wed./Thurs. July 5 and 6

From a temperate MO,

I had my nose in a book last night - and two pups on my lap - and all of a sudden realized I needed to go to bed - minus the Wednesday blog.

Jim seemed to have a better night on Tuesday than I did - the girls were in a panic with the evening fireworks. I guess I had never been in the house (or at least a room with plates on the wall) until Tuesday night and I couldn't believe the plates rattling as I bedded down with the girls in the "yellow" bedroom. They handled the shaking as well as could be expected and all of us dozed off after the last large boom.

I had several errands on Wednesday - doctor's office to make an appointment for Jim, WalMart for a few items, post office, and who knows what else. I did notice that Kelly is starting a new mural on the wall just south of "The Clipper". That is in a good location for us to watch its daily progress. At some time I will try to get photos of the existing murals and put them on the blog - am thinking there are maybe 14 now.

We dozed much of the middle of the day. Clara brought over some "Dr. Pepper spaghetti" which we made a large dent in last night. She also had salad makings and garlic bread. Tonight, we are having a buffet of various leftover items.

I joined Jim in bed last night and Trixie was really miffed. She was like a small child indicating her dislike with her fussing, but after about 30 minutes she evidently gave up and went to sleep. We went to bed a little after 8:30 last night (actually Jim turned in about 7:30 - and I let the girls have the run of the house for about an hour.) They spent much of that hour on my lap so didn't get too much exercise. I didn't hear them until 2:00 when they needed to go outside. Trixie again had trouble settling down so I eventually got up and the three of us spent the rest of the night in the yellow bedroom - with them bounding around to use up excess energy. About 30 minutes later, they conked out and I didn't hear anything until 6:00.

Jim was about ready to get moving when I checked in on him. I got the garbage out to the curb, showered, and left here about 7:20 to join the ladies for breakfast. We had a very large group this a.m. - Jan, Pat, Judy Duncan, Sandy McGinnis, Mary D., Laurinda, Karen Dixon (a new retiree), Margaret Vance, Clara, and yours truly. I may be leaving someone out - sorry.

I have dozed much of the time since I got back home. I need to get out later and have Jim guide me through using the battery operated weed eater as there are a few small patches that I couldn't get to with the riding mower yesterday. The temp. is supposed to go up tomorrow so I would like to get this done.

Jim has walked on the driveway two or three times this a.m. and is using his breathing device faithfully. He has had a call from the local cardio rehab unit this a.m. so he feels good about making a connection there.

Jim is hoping to join the second group of "old geezers" for breakfast in the a.m. I plan on taking him and then will have one of the oldsters bring him back.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. July 4

From what has been a rainy, humid, warmish MO,

We finally received rain last night!!! I think with the sprinkles we had yesterday and last night the rain gauge showed just a little over 1 inch. I had planned on doing some sporadic mowing today, but the ground was too damp this a.m. so I will do the few areas tomorrow.

Jim had a fairly good night of sleep. He didn't eat much for breakfast, but had a good lunch and supper. The swelling seems to be gone from his feet and ankles (a good sign) and his temp. was normal this afternoon - also a good sign. He used the picker upper aid that I bought yesterday to pick up some small twigs in the front yard and even went outside this a.m. to retrieve the two newspapers. I wouldn't have let him get the Sunday papers (of course we weren't home) as they would probably have been too heavy.

Jim dozed this morning and again this afternoon while the girls and I went down for a nap this afternoon.

I haven't accomplished much today. I have a few errands to do in the a.m. as well as the minor mowing (will take longer to get shed open, ramps in place, gate open, girls barricaded, etc. then the actual mowing, but the grass is getting rather tall in a few areas.

Jim wants me to get him out for a ride tomorrow - a good sign.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. July 3

From a warmish, humid MO,

We had a sprinkle of rain today (actually twice) but I'm sure it probably didn't even register in the rain gauge. Oh, well.

Jim was in a lot of discomfort by 4:00 this a.m. I had asked about pain medication as I knew I couldn't get to a pharmacy until this a.m., but none was provided. I was at HyVee at 8:00 this a.m. and soon had the needed Tylenol Codeine for Jim and had it in his system. He did better the rest of the day, but we ended up taking a long nap in the middle part of the day.

I had numerous errands this a.m. and then this afternoon picked up the girls at 2:00. They will eventually adjust, but don't understand being penned up when they are used to the run of the house. I did pick up one at a time and sit next to Jim while he petted the canine daughter - am not sure who enjoyed it more.

Jim walked around on the driveway this evening. He also held the water hose and did some watering for me when I needed to go inside. We may need to consider rejoining the YMCA as it is definitely too hot and muggy to be doing much activity outside. I know he could do at least one lap at the Y as he was walking that far at the hospital.

Jim has now turned in to bed (going on 7:30) so I will let the girls have some freedom - bedroom door is secure and I also have a barrier across the door. I'm hoping they will sleep soundly tonight.

We should have a slow day on Tuesday as nothing is planned. We will probably close all the curtains and have the tv on louder than usual tomorrow evening when the fireworks display is done at Simpson Park - or at least last year the girls did not enjoy it.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. July 2

Jim is home from St. Luke's.

I took Doug to the airport this a.m. and then went to St. Luke's to be there when the doctor made his rounds. It is a good thing I was there as Jim had made sufficient progress to be released (according to Medicare standards). Actually he is much better than Saturday - and on Saturday he was much better than Friday.

I departed to the hotel to cancel my room for tonight and also to pack. Then I went to a local restaurant to eat a belated breakfast and an early lunch. I was back at St. Luke's by 1:00 and we finally left after 3:00.

Jim made the trip in good shape and insisted on unpacking his "travel" bag and put all items away except for something that needed to go into a lower drawer. He is now (6:16 p.m.) down for a short rest.

I have numerous things to be done tomorrow - set up an appointment for Jim to see Dr. Metry in a week to 10 days, get prescriptions filled, take car by Barnes Baker as the "low tire pressure" light is on (but when Doug checked the tires - all were okay), call Liberty Hospital to reschedule my mammgram that was to have been on this Wednesday, go by HyVee for some food, box up some chemo caps for Heartland Hospital in St. Joseph as I've received an e-mail that they are running low, and who knows what else will be listed when I really start thinking.

I had a good night of sleep last night - first time since Thursday, June 22, so feel much better. I've been using Tylenol, but it didn't seem to work until last night.

It was great having Doug with us during this stressful time. I am sure Dara would have been of help as well, but she was under pressure of finishing a thesis for her Master's degree. She did a good job of updating Jim's progress on her blog.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. July 1

Update on Jim --

Jim and I were at St. Luke's South on Tuesday a.m. for a "routine" what used to be called angiogram and probably an angioplasty. I packed with the idea that we would be home probably on Wednesday - and Thursday at the latest. The staff where we were at SLS was excellent. Jim was soon back in the recovery room - as three significant blockages had been located. He was moved by ambulance to the main St. Luke's (south of Westport and north of the Plaza.) I had no trouble getting there, but had a horrible time trying to get into the parking facility because of construction - but finally made it.

I picked Doug up at KCI at 7:00 that evening as he flew in from Austin.

To make a long story short - Jim had a three way by-pass done on Wednesday - late in the a.m. as he was a "tag-on" patient. He was out of surgery by about 4:00 and into the recovery area where Doug and I had a chance to see him - not a pretty sight except that he was alive.

He was not a happy camper when we saw him on Thursday a.m. - obviously in pain, little sleep, etc. Doug returned to the hotel to get some work done on his computer and I dozed in the ICU waiting room for about two hours. The next time, he looked much improved. He was moved out of the ICU recovery on Thursday afternoon.

By this (Sat.) a.m. - he has been walking, learning how to maneuver with the "heart" belt around him, and doing a lot of dozing.

Doug and I made a quick trip back to Chillicothe today as I hadn't taken my bottled prescriptions - only what I had set out in plastic containers - and by now was out.

We are about ready now (2:50) to head back to KC.

I will take Doug to the airport on Sunday a.m. as he will fly back to Austin (unless there are problems tonight.)

At this point it appears that I will be driving Jim home either on Monday or Tuesday.

B.