Thurs. Aug. 31

From a temperate, gorgeous MO,

I had another good night of sleep - didn't hear the girls until almost 5:00 this a.m. - what a delight. Jim and I took them into the back yard last evening - with one of us on the north end and the other on the south end - and began tossing squeaky tennis balls back and forth. The girls were entralled and ran and back forth many times. Sleek Abby usually was first to the ball, but Trixie (the food glutton) tried to hold in there and was usually a close second. Trixie is usually the one that gets my attention during the night, but she must have really sacked out - thank goodness. We will do this again tonight!

We had seven or eight at breakfast this a.m. - Sharon McCall, Judy Duncan (husband retires today), Pat, Mary W., Sandy, Margaret, Clara, Jan, and yours truly. Guess there were nine of us, but Margaret arrived after several had already left. Judy Mathew should be back from working at the Y camp at Estes Park by next Thursday.

I did a couple of errands afterwards and then Jim and I headed to WalMart to walk the perimeter. When we returned home, we mowed the yard. Jim insisted on pushing the push mower and seemed to survive better than I anticipated. Of course he is not going to admit if he has aches and pains.

John Wheeler brought over a CD this a.m. that was a composite of Wheeler family photos as well as fishing in Canada - quite impressive to watch as a slide show.

I fixed turkey bacon and tomato sandwiches for lunch today. The tomatoes really look like fall tomatoes, but we should still get a few more. I need to check Thompson's tomatoes tomorrow. They are due back from their bus trip on Saturday afternoon.

Jim has rehab in the a.m. and I plan on walking outside. We really don't have too many errands to do tomorrow - which is probably a good thing. We will leave sometime in the afternoon to head to Maryville for the high school football game there. We will be home late, so I probably won't be on until Saturday.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. Aug. 30

From a temperate, sunny MO,

I had another good night of sleep and walked about 7:00 this a.m. It takes me about 25 to 30 minutes to do 1.25 miles - not a fast pace, but I am still moving along for me. The temperature was about 60 - a gorgeous morning to walk.

Jim had rehab at 8:00 this a.m. and then went on to join the old geezers for breakfast.

I showered, ate breakfast, and then headed to HyVee for some grocery shopping and to take advantage of the old geezer discount.

By the time I was ready to head for my weigh in and blood pressure check, Jim had decided to take me out to lunch. Actually he had stayed longer than usual at rehab and had missed his breakfast - so there was an ulterior motive.

I had lost a couple of pounds and my blood pressure had dropped a little - and soon we were off to the Boji Stone for quiche and salad. We had one of the last available tables.

I am afraid I dozed this afternoon. I had not had any coffee this a.m. as I didn't want my blood pressure to go up so I think that maybe I will start having some coffee in the a.m. and see if that helps my energy level.

I join the ladies for breakfast in the a.m. and then have some minor errands to do - then the rest of the day should be open - hopefully a good sign.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. Aug. 29

It is hard to realize that today is the 29th of August - where is the year going?

I had the best night of sleep last night (no Tylenol PM) since probably before Jim's surgery. I was up with the girls about 2:30 and then didn't hear them again until after 6:00 this a.m. After I got the girls back into the house, I realized that the basement lights still were not on - meaning Jim was still asleep.

I went downstairs to be sure everything was fine - and he had slept better than a long time and was ready to take off on our venture today.

We left here about 8:00 and had a traffic snafu about Stewartsville (east of St. Joseph on highway 36) as evidently there had been a bad accident and neither lane was being allowed to continue west. Traffic was diverted to a blacktop and eventually we made it back to highway 36, but probably had lost a good 30 minutes.

Our first stop was UPCO in the southern part of St. Joseph. It is a pet and farm animal store and we always enjoy browsing there - especially for the girls.

We headed north on I-29 and it is such a beautiful drive. The road is in good shape and as you head north you see river bluffs on your right side and then looking westward - you never see the Missouri River, but you know it is there - the land is quite flat. One thing of interest is that cemeteries are located on hills on the east side of the highway - Jim thinks that probably the good farming ground is too expensive to have as a cemetery - and of course I thought of flooding.

We went into Iowa for ten miles and then turned west towards Nebraska City. It has a population of about 7500 (according to one resident) and it is quite an interesting place - many small shops, a well kept area, a Lewis and Clark visitor center, a cave that was used on the Underground Railroad, a Pendleton outlet store, and in general just a pleasant, clean place to drive around in. It is quite old.

We went to the Pendleton outlet store and if I was happy with my size (which I am not) they had a fantastic sale going on - items already 50% marked off were marked off another 50%. The material is of very good quality and should entice almost any shopper.

A lady working there suggested a good place to go for salads (which we had indicated we were interested in) and we had one of the better taco salads that I have had at a public place. I have to admit I prefer mine, but they are made a little differently.

We stopped at an antique mall just east of Nebraska City - one of the cleanest ones I think I have ever been in. We spotted an interesting book - Livingston County History 1821-1981 - and I called our local library to see if they needed more copies. They didn't, but I almost bought it for myself. It would be interesting to find out how it ended up in Nebraska City, NE.

We headed south on I-29 about 1:00 and made another stop at an antique mall north of St. Joseph (not the Pony Express Mall) and found it to be a more typical antique mall. I did spot the yellow/brown plaid dishes (actually only three), but the prices were much higher than I am willing to pay. I didn't even check my wish list when I saw the prices.

We stopped east of St. Joseph to fill up with gas when we spotted the sign advertising 2.59.9! Then we also of course had to make a stop at Wendy's at Cameron for small Frosty's - Jim gets chocolate and by this stage of the day I opt for vanilla.

We were back in Chillicothe about 4:00. It was cool when we left this a.m. and just a lovely day by the time we returned. We had some light sprinkles when we left, but ran out of that rather quickly - then just delightful sun the rest of the day.

Jim has rehab in the a.m. and then will join the infamous group for breakfast. The behavior of one of the participants will probably get them to be not welcome at some point. I plan on walking in the a.m. and then I check in at the doctor's office for blood pressure and weight check. I think both will show some improvement from a month ago.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. & Mon. Aug. 27 & 28

From a cooler, but still moist MO,

We have had about 2 inches of rain these past few days. Most of it came in a gentle form so hopefully it has done some good. The KC area received lots more rain - some areas 5 to 8 inches!

We really didn't do much on Saturday - morning newspapers, didn't walk outside, walked perimeter of WalMart, dozed in afternoon, and in general just mildewed - probably what both of us needed - not the mildew, but the rest.

We have had periods of intermittent showers again today with the temp somewhere probably in the 70s - will build back higher somewhat by the end of this week. Jim had rehab this a.m. and took a pair of slacks by the cleaners to be shortened. I had the computer work for Mobile Meals with Ruth Benson being her usual efficient self and Ron Wilder came by to get a little more experience before going solo. He is going to join us again next week, but has asked that I do nothing until he gets there so he can see what I do from the beginning.

I was just downright lazy when I returned home and then joined five ladies (Jan, Clara, Pat, Sandy Wolf, and Sandy McGinnis) for lunch at the Boji Stone. I think everyone enjoyed their meals - first time there for Jan - and she will definitely return.

Jim and I did the perimeter at WalMart this afternoon and we are just basically mildewing now. He has requested the no-fat refried bean burritos for supper tonight along with some pulled chicken that we found the other day that has some Mexican flavor. We will also have a salad to go with it.

If the weather cooperates and we get a decent night of sleep, we are taking off for Nebraska City, NE in the a.m. to check out the Pendleton store that is located there. I am also looking for some wool fabric for a hooking project and they carry 100% wool that I need. Nebraska City is located off of I-29 - south of Omaha so it should be a relatively easy trip.

Helen R. and Mary Warren are flying to NYC on Tuesday and will take in the Open Tennis tournament on W, Th, and F. They are taking in a play on Wednesday evening. They will be at the Arthur Ashe venue on W and F and the Armstrong venue on Thursday.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. & Sat. Aug. 25 and 26

From a warmish and humid MO,

We had a good outing to NKC on Friday - Border's, Barnes & Noble, Ted Turner's (where we always enjoy the buffalo burgers.) We arrived in Excelsior Springs earlier than needed (customary for us) and did some exploring downtown. We had never been to the old downtown area (found it because of a wrong turn) and it is rather interesting. We tried to find the Wabash BBQ place, but evidently missed it by a couple of blocks.

We were of course at the stadium early for the scrimmage sessions. Rain and lightning moved in and and the field and stands were cleared. We spent the storm time in the car, but the school made their gym open for the public. I am glad that our team scrimmaged early as we were able to get home by almost dark - would have been earlier except we stopped at Cameron to clean the front window and I went in to get small Frosty's - only to stand in a very slow moving line.

We had a storm go through here last night, but we didn't get much moisture - just enough thunder and lightning to upset the girls (and therefore interrupt my sleep.) We did have little rain early this a.m., but I don't think it amounted to much. It was raining when we were going to walk so we opted to walk the perimeter at WalMart - mainly we were tired and also ended up taking long naps this afternoon.

We always look forward to the Sunday newspapers so that is our big deal on Sunday. If it dries up enough on Sunday, I need to get the riding lawnmower out and hit the high spots.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. Aug. 24

From a comfortable MO,

Actually it did get sort of warm today, but it has cooled off nicely this evening.

I joined the ladies for breakfast this a.m. - Jan, Sandy, Mary, Margaret, Pat, Clara, and yours truly - may be also missing someone. Jan Logan's husband had teased her that she had gone to Macon with the "ladies" on Monday, went to the Wild Onion in Trenton on Wednesday with the "ladies" and was having breakfast with them on Thursday a.m. -- wonder if there was a little bit of envy there?

Jim has spent much of the day at home - we did walk the perimeter of WalMart and then this evening we went to HyVee. He tried taking a nap on our bed upstairs this afternoon and was somewhat successful.

I had a longer than usual Library Board meeting this afternoon as the man was here from KC with a second presentation of a feasibility study for renovating the existing library. I am not sure where we will go with all this information, but something will need to be done to some extent at some point in the future.

I did get the riding lawnmower out briefly this afternoon and mowed the area in the backyard where the girls puddle and dump. They seem to be adverse about getting their tummies wet when squatting.

The pasta/tuna salad that I made yesterday turned out to be delicious on a bed of lettuce this evening - multi-grain rotini, artichokes, tuna, roasted red peppers, celery, cashews, am sure I am missing something - and a very small amount of peppercorn ranch dressing. I added a chopped tomato to the salad this evening and both of us thoroughly enjoyed it.

Jim has rehab in the a.m. and I need to get the car into Barnes Baker for an oil change. At some point tomorrow we will head to NKC to check out Barnes and Noble, Borders, and we are thinking about having a buffalo burger at Ted Turner's at Zona Rosa. We need to verify what time the scrimmages begin at Excelsior Springs, but will end up there - then on home. I'm sure I won't have much energy on Saturday.

You probably won't hear from me again until Saturday.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. Aug. 23

From a warmish MO,

This has been another full day. The girls were up a couple of times during the night, but I seemed to go back to sleep with little difficulty. They finally heard their daddy moving about 5:30 this a.m. - and that was all they needed to get moving as well. Of course they ended up joining me in bed until the tv came on at 6:45.

I soon had my old clothes from yesterday and my walking shoes on and was off on the surface street trek. The temp was probably in the low 60s and walking was a delight.

Jim was about ready to leave when I returned - heading to his cardio rehab session and after I had cleaned up, I headed out to get a large mailing delivered to the post office.

One of the things Jim mentioned when he returned from breakfast (after rehab) was there might be another take on the Bobby Pittman story - so we will just see what transpires - will let you know when I hear more.

Jim saw Dr. Metry today at 11:45 and Jim seemed to pass the tests in good shape - blood pressure was maybe 130 or 65 and pulse rate was 56! He has lost about 27 pounds in the last nine weeks. Of course I think he needs to lose at a slower pace, but for those of you who know Jim you will understand. He'll see Dr. Metry again in three months unless some issue crops up.

My cousin, Bobby, happened to be in town this afternoon and stopped by to visit. We had just finished eating lunch so I fixed him a turkey/bacon and tomato sandwich as well as the remains of a couple of salads. Of course Bobby raises pigs so I am sure he realized the turkey/bacon is a ways short of the real bacon quality.

The KC Star had an interesting pasta salad recipe in it today (Wed.) and I prepared it this afternoon so we will have it with lettuce for supper tomorrow night. I had also fixed a peanut butter pie this a.m. I took out just barely more than a third for us and took the rest to our young neighbors to the north - with three young children and both adults working - they work off a lot of calories. I had really been craving this pie for several months and it was just as good as I remembered.

Dara had an interesting blog today. If you don't have their address it should be

http://danddaustinupdate.blogspot.com/

The chocolate fountain sounds divine!!!

Jim should have a relatively easy day on Thursday, but mine is full - breakfast with the ladies, haircut in the a.m., and a library board meeting with a possible architect in the afternoon. I am not expecting one of our usual short meetings so am glad I have the pasta/tuna casserole ready for supper.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. Aug. 22

From a comfortable evening in MO,

This has been seemingly another full day. We enjoyed the a/c last night and needed to raise the temperature level this a.m. as it was a little cooler than desired. Jim seems to be cool much of the time - even when I have a slight sweat. Of course he is losing weight at a faster pace than I am - that could be part of the reason.

We walked our 1.25 route this a.m. - temperature was great and we did the walk without a problem.

After cleaning up, we had several errands to do and ended up at the vet's to pick up Abby and Trixie - who seemed delighted to see us and very happy when they arrived home.

I am not really sure where the day has gone. Jim broke up some small tree limbs and had a small fire this a.m. while I worked on a mass mailing of Jobson reunion data. I have a large pile of envelopes to mail on Wednesday - will be good to have that project behind me. I also called our prescription mail order plan and finally got around to doing a refill - no big emergency, but again it is nice to have it done. We slept or dozed this afternoon and Jim tried our bed for the first time in many days. I hadn't thought I was tired as I seemed to sleep very well last night, but all of a sudden this afternoon I hit the brick wall with exhaustion. I joined Helen, Marna, Peggy, and Mary W. for dessert at 4:00 at the Washington Street restaurant.

Oh, by the way. We saw Bobby Pittman at WalMart this a.m. He is maybe the second in line cook at the Applebee's that will be opening in about a month and a half. I hadn't seen him probably since he graduated from high school - many years ago. He was a good trackster in his high school days.

Jim has rehab in the a.m. and then will probably join the second old geezer group for breakfast. I plan on walking in the a.m. I need to go to the post office later and mail the many envelopes that I stuffed today. Jim sees Dr. Metry at 11:45 and I plan on going with him as I just don't trust the old geezer to tell me what is discussed between the two of them.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. Aug. 21

From an almost temperate MO evening,

Last evening we began to get suspicious that maybe the a/c wasn't working. We have ceiling fans and knew we could get through the night ---

I called our local dealer about 7:15 this a.m. and left a message that we thought there was a problem, but we wouldn't be home to open up until 9:30 -- Jim had rehab and I had the computer work for Mobile Meals.

It didn't take long until after 9:30 for the workman to determine that we had a serious problem with our 18 year old a/c - so we ended up exchanging it for a heat pump - which we had considered getting a year ago. Two of the office men arrived about 1:30 to do the installation - all regular workers had assigned jobs and by a little after 6:00 - we had cool air again. It will take awhile for the house to cool down, but we should have a good night of sleep.

Jim really struggled at his rehab this morning. I think he really overdid it on Saturday evening as he was trying to vacuum. I am not sure if he will want to walk Tuesday a.m., but I hope to get the walk done.

We ended up taking the girls to the kennel as we didn't want to worry about a gate being open - or their active barking at all the commotion going on in THEIR backyard. We will pick them up in the a.m.

I left here about 3:00 to head over to one of my cousin's that lives south of Bucklin. We are working on a "packet" to put out relative to the just past Jobson reunion. I will do a little more xeroxing tomorrow and hopefully will get the information mailed on Wednesday. I got back a little before 6:00.

I had "fried" chicken last evening (not really fried, but almost makes you think it was fried) and used some of the leftovers on a good lettuce salad tonight.

We have several errands to do on Tuesday a.m. and then we will pick up the girls - and enjoy their company. I don't know how errands can accumulate so quickly, but they seem to do so.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. & Sun. Aug. 19 & 20

From a warmish MO,

We have had a lot going on since I did the blog on Friday afternoon. We went to the scrimmage on Friday evening at the stadium with Jim getting to see one of his vaulters on the field and three in the stands - life doesn't get too much better for the old geezer. Light rain moved in during the scrimmage and eventually lightning was getting closer so we headed to the car - and home. We ended up not getting much rain, but at this point - anything is appreciated.

It was still raining (lightly) on Saturday a.m. so we opted not to walk. We left here after 10:00 to go to the funeral home for the services for Vickie's mom. Eva Danner and her younger daughter - and younger granddaughter were there as well as many others that some of you will know - John Wheeler, Helen Robinson, Charles Epps, Becky Garrison, Mike Jones, and others that are currently slipping my mind.

We did a couple of errands afterwards and then headed to the old Montgomery Ward building which houses our Senior Center and to the room that can be rented out for occasions. Vickie's mom had wanted a catered meal to be served to those showing up for her service and there I saw many more (many from years ago and I had to be reminded of a name) - JaNae Glidewell, Roger Carr, Kathy Turnbull, Darla Strait, Steve Lightner, and again I know I am leaving out names - oh, yes, Christy Boyd. These latter names are students from the past and I hadn't seen them in years.

Jim and I decided to vacuum and steam clean the main carpet upstairs that evening. Jim insisted on doing the vacuuming (I don't have a self propelled) and it didn't take long for him to realize that problems were developing. Also by this time he was having quite a gas problem in his chest from raw cauliflower that he had eaten at the meal (had opted for this rather than marvelous scalloped potatoes - seemed like a very sensible idea at the time) and ended up spending a restless night.

He wasn't up to walking this (Sunday) a.m. so I left Abby with him and took the "heavyweight" Trixie with me on the 1.25 mile trek. The temp. had to be in the 60s and it was a delightful walk. Jim shared his oatmeal bowl with Abby so she received some special attention - usually the girls share cleaning up our bowls.

The yard was in desperate need of mowing today so about 10:30, I began the task. The grass was high enough that I also needed to do the push mower - so ended up with my second shower of the morning. I cut the grass lower than usual as at least in the immediate future it doesn't appear that we are going to be getting beastly temperatures.

We dozed this afternoon and I need to get started with supper now. I had planned on doing some typing for a family mailing this afternoon, but will do that after supper.

Jim has rehab in the a.m. and I have the computer work for Mobile Meals. Ron Wilder and I will share this for the next few weeks as Darla is heading to a bank supervised trip to Africa - I think it is Africa and will be gone for several weeks. Ruth is always good help and she seems to not mind doing some of the tasks that I would prefer not to have to do. In the afternoon I head to one of my cousin's near Bucklin and we are putting together some information from the May family reunion and some other items to share. The day will be full.

We just had a call from Smith Tours and they were confirming that the trip to Chicago is on! We will get specific telephone numbers and agenda a couple of weeks before leaving. We are really looking forward to this outing as neither one of us have been in Chicago. We are looking forward to the new Lincoln library and also the King Tut exhibit in Chicago.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. Aug. 18

From a humid, dampish MO,

We have had a few spells of rain today. I am sure the accumulation isn't much, but it has stayed overcast so maybe it has done some good.

Jim had rehab this a.m. and then joined the second group of old geezers for breakfast. I walked the 1.25 mile route before he left, took a long time to cool off, showered, ate my oatmeal, and then did a series of errands - post office, books to Sandy, chemo caps to American Cancer Society, etc. When Jim returned, we did another series of errands including labels to Clara and we filled his truck with gas as it seems to be coming down some.

I slept well last night, but still dozed for a couple of hours after lunch today.

We will be leaving in a little while to go over to the stadium for the annual preseason intra squad scrimmage. We will need to take some rain jackets, but if the rain gets heavy we will probably come back home as Jim doesn't need to get chilled.

The only thing we have on our agenda for Saturday is to attend the memorial service for Vickie's mom. I do need to go to HyVee for some groceries, but other than bread, the other items on my list could wait until the old geezer discount on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. Aug. 17

From a warmish, humid MO,

This has been another full day. The girls were restless again last night so I must take a Tylenol PM tonight and hopefully get a good night of sleep tonight. I was up with them about midnight and again at 4:00 - then they heard Jim moving about 5:00 - so the 6:30 a.m. alarm came a little too soon for me.

We had seven at breakfast this a.m. - Mary W., Pat, Clara, Jan, Mary D (last time as school begins on Monday), Sandy, and yours truly. We had so many topics going this a.m. that I couldn't begin to keep up. Jan brought three sample blocks of the wall hanging that she is currently working on - depicts a shaded spruce and shaded aspens - as she picked up the pattern while at Estes Park a few weeks ago.

I went by the store afterwards and picked up some canned pop so that Jim and I could ice it down and take over to the Melte family (Vickie was originally a Melte). We had a good visit with Vickie, David, and Larry Melte. They are trying to get through their mom's appartment so that it can be vacated by Aug. 31.

I fixed bacon (turkey bacon) and tomato sandwiches for lunch and then went down for a nap. Jim has done a lot of reading in the past few weeks and has one more book to go in his 26 book series by Alexander Kent. He has a book that RoseLee Davis brought him to read that he will probably do next and then try a Scarrow series that Mike Lair has enjoyed.

Jim had requested refried bean burritos for supper and I fixed a lettuce salad for him to go with it. I wanted a stir-fry (as well as the burritos) - so my taste buds were also satisfied.

We have a rather full day for Friday. Jim has rehab at 8:00 (and then will probably join the second group for breakfast) and I hope to have walked by the time he is ready to leave. I have a pile of books to donate to the library and then have several errands and projects that I would like to get done afterwards. We will attend the Booster "scrimmage" game in the evening - weather permitting. Rain is in the forecast, but we are not afraid of rain - just don't like sitting out in lightning.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. Aug. 16

From another almost temperate day - again thank goodness!

The girls were restless last night and I was up with them about midnight, then something tipped over in the computer room (a barricade) about 2:00 and woke us up, then they were ready to go out again about 4:30. The last time I had them join me in bed when we returned and I didn't hear anything until after 6:00 when Jim was moving. I will definitely be ready for a good night of sleep tonight.

Vickie Garrett called early this a.m. to let us know that her mother had passed away just before midnight - last night. Mrs. Melte has been in failing health for some time and had gotten worse this weekend. Visitation is Friday evening with a memorial service on Saturday morning. Memorial donations may be made to "Tree House" which is a home away for home for people who have family members at the Liberty Hospital.

Jim had rehab this a.m. and I took off about the same time to do errands - with the girls as it was nice and cool - xerox and something else. Then I returned home and dropped off the girls while I took off again to the post office, RSVP office, and then HyVee to do some minor shopping. Jim was home (from rehab and breakfast) by the time I returned.

Jim and I had routine dental check-ups (primarily for cleaning) this afternoon with Chad McCoy. I always enjoy hearing about where he has traveled in the previous six months and what he has planned coming up. I asked about Betty and he is rather frustrated as she spends the day in her chair - sometimes dozing - sometimes reading - sometimes with tv - and then goes to bed late - to sleep until noon the following day. He says her mind is good when she is awake. All of this is so sad as Chad so looked forward to traveling with her when she retired.

I have checked my outdoor plants and think I will pass on watering tonight - tomorrow is again to be in the mid 80s and rain is also possible.

I have breakfast with the ladies in the a.m. Jim and I will then make a trip to HyVee to get some assorted pop, ice it in one of our big coolers, and take it to the Melte home for use by the family. I had called Vickie tonight to indicate that she had better tell what they might use as otherwise I would probably show up with something that was a duplicate - or not needed. She indicated they had already received a large deli sandwich as well as meat trays today - along with several casseroles.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. & Tues. Aug. 14 & 15

From an almost temperate MO - thank goodness --

We have had two full days. Actually I should begin with Sunday night as we finally received rain during the night and during the morning - for a total of about 3 inches. The first rain that came down (about an inch) was very heavy, but after that it was mostly a gentle rain. The yard will need to be mowed in another day or two as a result, but at least some of the fire potential should have been lessened.

We left here about 10:00 on Monday (dropped the girls off at their motel) and headed for KC. We had never used highway 71 to go to the Plaza area - and it was so much easier - especially since the usual route that we take has a major detour. We scouted around the Plaza some as Jim wanted to go to Eddie Bauer (seemed much smaller than the last time we were there) and then we decided to head to Metcalf to find the Cheesecake Factory (for lunch) and then on to Kohl's and Borders.

We made it back to the hotel area about 3:30 and were able to get in our room - both of us quite tired by then. We rested a couple of hours and decided to take advantage of our "free" coupons for adult drinks - which tasted great - and I also fixed a small platter of veggies with dip that the hotel made available. Actually there were several people taking advantage of the evening freebies.

I turned in a little after 7:00 and Jim followed me soon afterwards. I slept well until almost 6:00 this morning and Jim began moving about 30 minutes later. After showering, we headed downstairs for the complimentary breakfast buffet. Jim used better sense in selection than I did, but both of us also loaded up on fresh fruit.

We checked out about 9:00 and headed to the doctor's office area (about a block away) and Jim was soon in to see a nurse practioner (doctor had been called to St. Luke's for an emergency.) She was a "good looker" so Jim was quite impressed and for some reason his blood pressure didn't sky rocket as it was 120/70 with the pulse rate in the 50s. She looked at the xrays that Jim had last week and indicated the sawed open area was healing fine. She did notice one stitch that hadn't dissolved and removed it. She seemed very competent - might not want her to do surgery, but she handled what was needed quite well. When Jim asked about "aggressive" arm activity she cautioned 9 to 12 weeks - said it depended on the doctor, but she was conservative and leaned towards 12 weeks. She did write a note to the gals at rehab here in Chillicothe that it would be okay to begin using light weights on his arms as he did his rehab.

We were back in Chillicothe a little after 12:00. I had called from Cameron to the vet's office to let them know we were going to be able to pick up Abby and Trixie this afternoon. They received baths after lunch and had toenails trimmed - and we picked them up about 3:00. Both seemed glad to get home and seem quite tired - so maybe I will get a good night of sleep.

We have a full day on Wednesday as Jim has rehab in the a.m. and then we have routine dental appointments for 1:00 and 1:45 - haven't decided yet which one of us will go first, but we can iron that out on Wednesday. I plan on walking the 1.25 trek in the a.m. before Jim goes to rehab. I have a few errands to do tomorrow - some xeroxing, a trip to HyVee to take advantage of the old geezer discount, and who knows what else. Jim needs to go by the speciality clinic and leave a note for Dr. Kozminski as his prescription supplement indicates that they need prior notification (and their approval) of the implant that Jim has been receiving. We are assuming that Medicare A & B probably cover the implant, but just want to make sure (when talking $5,000 to $6,000 - no surprises are needed!)

Be safe.
B.

Sun. Aug. 13

This will be brief as it seems we may be getting another storm rolling through.

We walked this a.m. - again did the 1.25 mile trek. We met David and Vickie Garrett as they were driving to the hospital. Vickie's mom is quite bad and unless there is a major turn-around, she is going downhill rapidly. I think Tom Gatson is meeting with the golf girls so that Vickie can spend time at the hospital from Monday through Friday.

We walked again at WalMart and then have mainly vegetated the rest of the day. I don't know if we hit 100 degrees today, but it was quite close and the humidity was very oppressive this afternoon.

We had rain roll through here about 7:00 - very heavy most of the time and when Jim checked the rain gauge it was 1.25 inches - or thereabouts. I can almost see the grass greening up.

I hear thunder again so will sign off.

Remember I won't be back on until Tuesday evening because of our trip to KC, Embassy Suites, and seeing the cardiologist on Tuesday.

Be safe.
B.

Sat. Aug. 12

From an almost temperate MO,

We slept well last night (or at least Jim dozed well) and the two human adults set off about 7:00 to see if we could do the 1.25 trek. It was almost cool this morning and the humidity was a lot easier to cope with. We did manage the full trek and even though we were soaking wet when we returned home, I think Jim managed quite well - maybe better than I did.

After showering and having our morning oatmeal, we settled in to do laundry and have children on our laps. I decided that I would tackle the kitchen counter areas and by now all items have been removed at one time and a thorough cleaning has occurred. I dumped a few items that I knew were several years old and I actually have a little more counter space. I usually do this project when Jim is in Canada, but that was delayed this year.

We had fresh tomatoes with turkey bacon for lunch today - a marvelous treat as far as we are concerned.

Jim thought there were parts of the yard that needed mowing so I got the riding mower out and placated him with the few areas and then got the push mower out, I started it, and mowed a few areas with it. I must admit the yard looks a little better and there is the possibility of rain in this coming week - so it is nice to have the yard ready for rain.

We have read quite a bit today and also have enjoyed the girls. I did get out briefly late this a.m. to check the weekly farmer's market - looking for a good eggplant, but none was to be had. I didn't see too much else there that we needed as we have a good supply of tomatoes and I am getting enough green peppers for us to eat.

We don't have anything specific planned for Sunday other than getting a little packing done for our Monday and Tuesday outing. I also need to get the girls' items together to take to the vet. We learned with the Westies that dire consequences happen when we don't take their usual food even though it had been indicated at the vet's that we didn't need to bring any. Actually Abby would probably indicate that NO dog food needs to be purchased as she thinks she would fare quite well on human food. She really doesn't get that much - the girls clean out our oatmeal bowls in the a.m, but there really isn't anything left - and they get a very small tidbit of bread at noon if we have a sandwich. They do love their crushed ice though and any time Jim goes to the refrigerator to get some - as soon as they hear the noise they are quickly running to the kitchen -hoping some drops.

Be safe.
B.

Fri. Aug. 11

From a more comfortable MO,

Actually the day began temperature wise okay, but the humidity when I walked this morning was oppressive. About an hour we had a fog bank move in - didn't surprise me at all.

Jim had rehab this a.m. and I hit the surface streets to do my 1.25 mile trek. It is basically on level streets so it is not challenging - except for the humidty.

We met my cousin from Canada about 11:30 at the coffee house for lunch. She had come over to check out the "finds" at Friends and found several good bargains. We had quiche with salad for lunch. Jim was delighted that he wasn't the only guy in there today. Of course last week he sort of delighted in the attention that the ladies provided to him.

After lunch, my cousin and I went to Kay Green's home. Kay and Margaret had known each other at MU - we won't say how many years ago. Kay and her husband have almost gutted their home and are busy doing painting as wood floors will be installed on Monday. They also have all of their kitchen cabinets out so their lives must be interesting as they deal with all the projects going on.

Jim and I picked tomatoes this afternoon and eventually delivered some to John and Sandy Wheeler.

Jim and I sat outside this evening as we were receiving a delightfully, cool breeze from the north. The girls were loving the cooler temp and were chasing each other in the backyard. Abby is now on my lap and is having difficulty staying on as she keeps going to sleep and sliding. Trixie is curled up at my feet. Jim is reading in the front room and I will maybe join him until 10:00.

I am reading a fictional book about Mary Boleyn (Anne Boleyn's sister). I have marked my "reading list" that I have already read it, but I keep finding sections that I have no memory of - then I come across a section that I do remember. I'd be curious as to what was going on with me when I read it because of my memory lapses.

We are going to walk in the a.m. and then have nothing especially planned for the day. I do need to get the riding lawnmower out as we have one area in the backyard where the grass is getting a little high and some spots need to be trimmed in the front yard, but basically the yard is brown. Only weeds can survive in the weather we have been having.

In case I forget, Jim and I are going to Kansas City on Monday and will spend Monday night at the Embassy Suites (just north of St. Luke's hospital). Jim has a six week check-up on Tuesday a.m. - then we will return to Chillicothe. We'll leave the girls at the kennel overnight. Jim has had so much fun telling people that Doug and I used "his" Canada money for our stay at the Embassy Suites - so he is now going to get a night there. I'm hoping we can get him comfortable in bed so he can get some rest - otherwise we'll adapt the couch in the living room for him to rest on - might feel better there as he can't turn over.

Margaret (Jim's sister) e-mailed today that her daughter, Holly, and Holly's husband made it safely to Gatwick in England. They flew yesterday from San Francisco to Newark and then on to Gatwick. What a day to be flying!

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. Aug. 10

From another warm and muggy day in MO,

This has been a good day for us. Jim already had the garbage out when my alarm went off. I had thought one bag was too heavy for him, but of course he already had it carried out to the curb by the time I reached the garage.

We had either seven or eight at breakfast this a.m. - Pat, Jan, Clara, Jean, Judy Duncan, Mary W., Margaret (arrived as we were leaving), and yours truly. The first topic of conversation was relative to Wanda Thomas who usually is the waitress that puts up with us. We knew she had an appointment at St. Lukes this past Monday for a stent, but it turned out she had a triple by-pass. Others working at Country Kitchen thought she was doing okay and one person was planning on going to see her this afternoon. Jan Logan had made a peach pound cake and had cut slices (2) for each of us to have to take home. That became our dessert for this evening.

Jim and I did a few errands when I returned home - including walking the perimeter of WalMart. We also made a trip to the post office.

We have spent much of the day reading and holding the girls on our laps - much to their great love. We delivered a few tomatoes this afternoon and that made recipients happy. Mary Willis brought over the recipe for the marvelous zucchini casserole that she brought us a few days ago - so that is on my agenda for Friday.

Jim has rehab at 8:00 on Friday morning and I hope to walk before he leaves for rehab. The temp. shouldn't be too bad, but in all likelihood the humidity will be oppressive - as usual.

I called Doug this evening and it turns out that tomorrow is Dara's graduation. For some reason I had thought it was this past Monday even though that seemed like an odd day. Her folks arrived this afternoon from Little Rock and one of her sisters is coming in this weekend from Dallas.

Be safe.
B.

Wed. Aug. 9

From a HOT, MUGGY MO,

This has been a relatively good day for us. Jim dozed again in the recliner last night. The girls didn't get my attention until almost 5:00 this a.m. - and this was more my moving around than their getting my attention. I enjoyed their cuddling in bed until 6:45 when I crawled out so as to walk the surface streets.

The temperature wasn't that terribly warm, but the humidity was staggering. The air felt like a ton of weight on me. Needless to say, by the time I had finished the 1.25 mile trek, I was soaking wet.

Jim had rehab this a.m. and then joined the second group of guys for breakfast - GRI did have oatmeal this a.m. for a change.

We got out about 10:30 to walk the perimeter of WalMart and then went by HyVee to get a few food items and to again take advantage of the "old geezer" discount.

We have spent the rest of the day basically dozing and reading. I have been outside this late afternoon to pick a few tomatoes and to get the garbage ready for in the a.m. - came in soaking wet - probably wasn't out of the house for more than 10 minutes.

I join the ladies for breakfast in the a.m. and beyond that we don't have much planned. I'm sure we will walk the perimeter of WalMart again tomorrow - and then we are to begin seeing some relief from the heat. Saturday a.m. is actually to be in the upper 60s - should be a delightful walk and not hard on Jim.

Abby has helped me write this as she is stretched out across my lap with her head on my left arm. She and Trixie have become quite adept at getting personal attention.

Be safe.
B.

Tues.

From a warm and very muggy MO,

This has been a quiet day so far. Jim took a Tylenol PM last night and ended up in the recliner - and I didn't hear him until about 7:00 this a.m. The girls were up about 12:30 and again about 6:00, but I had a good night of sleep - so am thinking I won't doze this afternoon.

We decided that with the humidity that we would go to the Y and walk this a.m. - got there - and then I remembered it was closed this week for a good cleaning (this is done annually.) We went back home and walked north on Burnam to the local voting place, voted, and then continued the surface route we used for years. We made it to 16th street - much of this is uphill - and decided to return home. Both of us were soaking wet - probably a little too much for Jim.

After cleaning up, we headed to HyVee for breakfast (haven't done this with Jim in ages) and found Pat Nichols and Doug Long sharing a booth. We joined them and always enjoy catching up. Doug recently did the bike marathon across Iowa and thoroughly enjoyed listening to Lance Armstrong. Doug looks healthier than I have seen him in years - guess the stress of school is off his back. Pat was getting ready to go to the middle school library to help Laurinda get it ready for the opening of school.

We did some major (for us) grocery shopping this a.m. at HyVee. We have been eating a lot of fresh fruit as well as canned fruit (with Splenda) and the latter needed replacing. Jim also picked out some sugar free jello which I am going to fix - probably tomorrow - another Scarlet O'Hara for me. He opted for "fried" chicken for supper. I am not sure you can call it fried as after I use flour on the chicken, I "fry" it in about two tablespoons of olive oil - then add some water after the chicken is browned to keep it from drying out as it finishes cooking. I'm not sure what I will have with it tonight - probably a baked potato and a veggie.

We had turkey/bacon with fresh tomatoes for lunch today - what a treat!

We also have made a book delivery and plastic bag delivery to our county library this a.m. Jim has now ready at least 17 or 18 of the Alexander Kent books.

According to the KC early morning news programs this a.m., the area north of us had a good amount of rain last night - we seemed to have only a sprinkle. At least it is somewhat overcast today so plants won't scald in the sun. The heat is to return in full form tomorrow and last for a few days.

On Wednesday, Jim has rehab in the a.m. and then will probably join the second group for breakfast (oatmeal and dry toast - or if the Grand River Inn again doesn't have oatmeal - he'll have an English muffin.) I don't have anything of significance on the agenda for tomorrow.

I have pulled out the Parker genealogy (my paternal grandmother's maiden name was Parker) and am trying to decipher what needs to be done. I just need to wade in and begin - and hopefully it will begin to fall in place.

Be safe.
B.

Mon. Aug. 7

From not quite as hot MO,

This has been a rather active day. We had sort of a storm during the night. We had very little moisture, but when I took the girls out at 12:30 and again at 4:30 - the northern sky was having quite a lightning show.

Jim had rehab this a.m. and I headed to the RSVP office to do computer work for Mobile Meals. Ruth Benson arrived - thankgoodness - and she reconciled the checkbook with the bank statement, xeroxed, and helped collate the finished labels. She is so efficient and such a dear. Even with her there, I puttered for close to two hours. The main issue was the so called new printer and it was choosing to be stubborn today. Oh, well --

When both of us finally got back home, rested a little while, we headed to WalMart to do a perimeter walk. Jim had a good exercise at rehab, but enjoys the stroll around WalMart.

We dozed this afternoon and we have spent the rest of the time reading. I need to water tonight as I didn't last night - hoping it would rain - so veggies and flowers need moisture.

We are hoping to do a surface street walk tomorrow - maybe incorporate it as we go to vote - and then have nothing special planned. There are plenty of things we could do around here as we need to unload the pile of Canada fishing items that are in the computer room - and get them back into their proper place.

Be safe.
B.

Sun. Aug. 6

From a hot and somewhat muggy MO,

This has been a good day for us - at least so far.

Jim tried sleeping on the bed in the basement last night and I think he managed quite well until he decided he would try sleeping on his side. When he turned to the left side - all seemed to go well. Later he tried the right side and heard a pop - and reversed himself quickly and stayed on his back until he got up. He is now downstairs taking a nap so we'll see how this goes.

We tried walking outside this a.m. The temp was in the low 70s, but we didn't seem to be getting any breeze. Jim probably walked just under 1 mile and I walked just a little over 1 mile - cut the extra short as I thought I probably needed to follow him back. When he had turned back earlier, Annette Snyder and her dog were walking that direction so I hadn't worried.

We made an outing to WalMart this a.m. to get another walk in - this time in a/c.

Both of us went down for naps this afternoon - with Jim still being down.

Jim has rehab on Monday a.m. and I am going to fill in for Darla with Mobile Meals as she has the opportunity to go out of town with her husband. Beyond that, we have a few errands to do. Jim had received a letter on Saturday about his 6 week check-up with the cardiologist. We are thinking the letter inferred it would be at the complex across from the old St. Luke's, but an address was also provided for St. Luke's North. Sure don't want to show up to one of them for the appt. - only to find out we were to be at the other. I'm rather hoping it is at SLN, but --

Be safe.
B.

Fri. & Sat. Aug. 4 & 5

From a hot and muggy MO,

The past two days have been rather active. I should have checked to see if I wrote on Friday, but was too lazy. Jim had rehab on Friday a.m. - continues to be a little stronger with each session. We did some errands afterwards and eventually I did a "carry-out" at the new cafe. We dozed away the afternoon with Jim managing to get some sleep on the bed.

Mary Willis had made a marvelous zucchini casserole yesterday afternoon which she shared with us. I fixed some "so-called" fried chicken and that basically finished off the meal - along with some lettuce salad.

The girls and I went to bed quite early last night and therefore I was up with them about 12:30 and again at 5:30. Jim used the recliner again and I tried his side of the bed as he thought he would eventually sleep on my side. His side is almost wrecked (or that is my opinion) and we haven't had the new mattress and box springs for even three years. We had bought a bench to use at the foot of the bed for when we were putting on shoes, etc., but Jim continues to use his side of the bed for putting on shoes, clothes, turning on tv, etc. and therefore when sleeping on that side it is almost like going down a mountain.

We left here about 8:00 this a.m. and picked up Pat for an outing to KC. I had enjoyed a section of one of the KC tv stations yesterday morning describing a 50s and 60s "antique" store. After several detours, we finally located the place and I must admit it was like a trip down memory lane. We didn't get anything, but it was interesting.

Next we went to the Half Price Book Store in the Westport area. We usually go to the "sister" store on Metcalf, but decided that we really liked maybe this store better - Stan and Helen also like to drop in here.

Next we went to McCoy's at Westport and enjoyed an early lunch. Jim had a bison burger while Pat and I split a Tuscan chicken pizza and we also had side salads. Jim and I enjoy going here and this was Pat's first trip.

Then we headed to the "I Love a Mystery" book store - in the first block east of Lamar on Johnson Dr. in the Merriam area. This also was a first for Pat and I think she really enjoyed it.

We headed north next - at first thinking we would go to the Border's Store near I-29 and Barry, but finally decided to come on home. I had driven down, but Jim decided to drive from our "antique" store and brought us on back home.

We have no plans for Sunday as I am sure that we will need the day to rest up from today. I hope to walk early in the a.m. - then spend the day cuddling with the girls and in general just taking life easy.

Be safe.
B.

Thurs. Aug. 3

From a warm, but not hot and muggy MO,

This has been a full day. Jim used Tylenol PM last night and I didn't hear him or the girls until almost 6:30 this a.m. I needed that good night of sleep.

We had six or seven at breakfast this a.m. - Pat, Clara, Mary D., Mary W., Margaret, Jean, and yours truly. I am probably forgetting someone, but just chalk that up to old age.

Jim and I got out afterwards and did a couple of errands and then ended up going to the new coffee/cafe for a delightful lunch - quiche, salad, and fruit. Jim felt out of place as there were probably 20 ladies eating - with him being the only male except for one of the servers. I think he still enjoyed the meal and knew almost all the ladies that were scattered around.

A cousin on my mom's side called this afternoon. She is visiting her folks in Marceline and had flown in from Canada on Monday. She and her mom came over to do some shopping and then they came to our place to show us some recent wedding photos taken at St. Catherine's, Canada (where my paternal great, great grandparents lived for about 15 or so years prior to our Civil War.)

John Wheeler was over for a brief time this afternoon - returning a Kinky Friedman book that Doug has sent to Jim.

Jim had requested no-fat refried bean burritos for supper and I fixed a layered lettuce/pea/salad this a.m. - so supper was a breeze.

Jim has rehab on Friday a.m. and then will join the second breakfast group for breakfast. We will first take my car down to Barnes Baker to get a part put on it - then it should be ready to go again.

Be safe.
B.

Wed.. Aug. 2

From a hot and muggy MO -- is beginning to sound like a stuck record!

All of us got a good night of rest. The girls didn't awaken me until 5:30 this a.m. when Jim began wandering around. I took them outside and then let them crawl in bed with me. I asked Jim to roust me about 6:30 so I could walk.

The walk went well until about 3 blocks from home and then I really started sweating. I cooled off when I got home, showered, and then decided to go to Country Kitchen for breakfast. Jim had left a little before 8:00 for rehab and then was going to see if the second group of guys still were chatting at Grand River Inn - and they were.

By the time Jim got home, I had decided that I needed a good nap - even though it was only 10:30. I thought I would be down for a couple of hours, but it was almost 3 hours before I awakened. Jim and I then made a trip to WalMart so he could walk the perimeter - and of course we picked up a few items.

We are supposed to maybe get some rain this evening and during the night. The last I saw anything on tv they were talking maybe one inch - we need more, but we will take what we can get. I think the temp. today is supposed to be near the 100 degree mark again.

I join the ladies for breakfast in the a.m. and beyond that we have nothing on the calendar. Jim continues to read one of the Kent Alexander books about every other day and always is content settling down to one of them.

Five weeks ago today, Jim was in surgery at St. Luke's.

Be safe.
B.

Tues. Aug 1

From a hot and muggy MO,

This has been a more active day that I anticipated. The girls and Jim seemed to sleep and doze well last night. I took the girls out about 4:00 and didn't hear them again until Jim rousted them about 6:00. I decided I would go on and walk and somehow made the route. I wasn't that tired, but certainly soaking when I returned home. This time I let myself cool off before showering (actually did a Shah job and stood over the a/c vent).

After I had eaten, Jim decided that the girls area of the backyard needed to be mowed - now why couldn't he have told me that before I showered. I got that job done - took maybe 5 minutes, but was wet again and of course had lots of dried debris on me - then started the push mower and did a quick job on a couple of small areas in the backyard. By then I was really soaking wet.

I did errands this a.m. and eventually Jim went with me to HyVee for some "senior discount" grocery shopping.

We dozed this afternoon and then I met some of the ladies about 4:00 at our new coffee house for a cool drink. Helen had come down from Princeton and that group was considering playing some tennis - I think they are crazy with the heat being about 100.

We delivered the wedding gift to the Lair's home this evening and spent about 30 minutes visiting with them. Turns out that Jim and Mike read several of the same authors.

Jim has a big Wednesday a.m. - first he has rehab and then will probably join the second breakfast group. I don't even want to think about the topics discussed with this group!

I need to do a few errands and have found a few more grocery items to warrant a trip to HyVee to take advantage of their second day of "old geezer" discounts.

We may be getting some storms tomorrow afternoon and evening, but the track of the storm hasn't been determined yet. I am looking forward to the cooler temperatures and we certainly need the rain. One of the KC stations was mentioning the range of "zero" to three inches.

Be safe.
B.