New Year's Eve 2009. At midnight I will be entering my 9th decade. I actually got up before 0630 this morning. At 0700 Nancy and I started shoveling. We had about 1/2" overnight. The walk and drive were cleared in 20 minutes. After my at home routine I got in the C2 and headed to the MAC. I finished at the MAC and then headed to the Kava House. I was half way through the DFP when my phone goes off and it is Nancy telling me that our power is out and the house is super cold. Good grief that is all we need is New Year's Eve with no power. My first thought was that we could get a room downtown. Then I remembered what do we do with Ms P?
I headed home to see what was up. As I was pulling into the drive, Nancy called and said the power was back on. I saw a Consumer's Power truck driving down the street so I flagged it down. I asked what caused the outage? He said a squirrel got in a transformer and shorted the circuit. The squirrel was fried. He had it in a bag. Is this his lunch?
I had a light lunch because tonight, before the Symphony, we are eating at the Chop House. Their steaks are suppose to be great. We are going out with the Horlings.
Nancy said the car monitor said we had 60 miles of fuel left in the tank. Ms P and I headed to the gas station and filled the Taurus. It is suppose to be very cold tonight so I am glad we have a full tank. A low fuel level during cold weather creates condensation in the tank. This is not a good condition.
At 4:30 Nancy and I started getting ready for New Year's Eve. I even wore a suit and tie. Nancy, as usual, looked smashing. We met the Horlings at 5:30 at the Chop House. We all had the filet mignon. After a leisurely dinner we walked over to DeVos Hall to see a New Year's Eve Concert put on by the GR Symphony. It featured the music of Andrew Lloyd Weber. It was a good concert. After the concert Nancy and I walked around Rosa Park Circle where an outdoor concert was underway. The place was jammed. It was very cold so we headed home. Like most old folks we will not make it to 12. Happy New Year.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday December 30, 2009
It was shortly after midnight when Ms P and I went outside so she could do her bidness. We were walking down the hill when a series of pops went off. The pops sounded like gunshots. It unnerved Ms P so much that she immediately came in without doing her bidness.
Wednesday is suppose to be Breakfast Club day but the Women's Civic Club is closed between Christmas and New Years. So my big question today is what am I going to do for breakfast? I finally figured it out, I strapped on my GPS and walked to Bill's on Michigan. I had the weekday special, two eggs, two pancakes and two sausages for $3.75. I took my Kindle so I also read the DFP. In case you are interested it is 2.35 miles to Bills.
I got home around 0930 so I spent the next two hours continuing to clean up my desk. At 1130 I got in the C2 and headed for the MAC. I swam 1,000 yards in 30'14". After the MAC I stopped by Jos A. Banks and purchased two dress shirts. They had a buy one get one free sale going on. The shirts are the no-iron type.
I arrived home shortly after 1400, had a quick lunch, then loaded Ms P in the C2 and headed to the post office to mail some yearend bills. All this activity made me tired so I took a 45 minute nap. It is now 4:55 and I am starting this blog. Nancy is still working at Meijer's Garden.
After dinner I read the GRP and then watched Chris Matthews. I don't know why I watch this show because I totally disagree with his political views. At 8 I turned to the AZ vs NB football game. It is now 9:05 and I will head to bed to contine reading my book. It is a CIA vs the World type book. The author is Vince Flynn. I do not recommend Mr. Flynn as an author. I got my 30 in today did you?
Wednesday is suppose to be Breakfast Club day but the Women's Civic Club is closed between Christmas and New Years. So my big question today is what am I going to do for breakfast? I finally figured it out, I strapped on my GPS and walked to Bill's on Michigan. I had the weekday special, two eggs, two pancakes and two sausages for $3.75. I took my Kindle so I also read the DFP. In case you are interested it is 2.35 miles to Bills.
I got home around 0930 so I spent the next two hours continuing to clean up my desk. At 1130 I got in the C2 and headed for the MAC. I swam 1,000 yards in 30'14". After the MAC I stopped by Jos A. Banks and purchased two dress shirts. They had a buy one get one free sale going on. The shirts are the no-iron type.
I arrived home shortly after 1400, had a quick lunch, then loaded Ms P in the C2 and headed to the post office to mail some yearend bills. All this activity made me tired so I took a 45 minute nap. It is now 4:55 and I am starting this blog. Nancy is still working at Meijer's Garden.
After dinner I read the GRP and then watched Chris Matthews. I don't know why I watch this show because I totally disagree with his political views. At 8 I turned to the AZ vs NB football game. It is now 9:05 and I will head to bed to contine reading my book. It is a CIA vs the World type book. The author is Vince Flynn. I do not recommend Mr. Flynn as an author. I got my 30 in today did you?
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday December 29, 2009
Today is the day I run to the MAC. I suited up and strapped on the GPS and started running. It was perfect winter day for a run. The sun was shining with little wind. Despite all the good things about today's run my pace did not get any better.
It took some time to complete my workout at the MAC. It seems everyone is taking the week off so they have time to talk. I got a doctor's opinion on the proposed health plan. The cost/benefit of a Brann's sizzler. Several members were forced to take the week off (without pay) because their plant shut down for the holidays.
I did not leave the MAC until 1030. After breakfast and a shower I walked to the Kava House. I had time to read both the DFP and WSJ. I got home about 2 PM. After a quick lunch I retired to my office to catch up on my mail.
I agreed to do a plan check for a set of bridge plans Jennifer Dougherty (Cogent Engineering) is preparing for Midland County. It is good to see that Jennifer has a nice work backlog. In the design business a backlog is always desired.
I also checked Goggle Earth to view Campbeltown, Scotland. This month's National Geographic had an article on Scotland's Western Islands. Campbeltown is on a peninsula that juts out into the North Channel of the Irish Sea. It is near the southern end of the Western Islands. The NG map showed Campbeltown. My Great grandfather McTavish was from Campbeltown. The end of the peninsula Campbeltown is on is only 12 miles from Northern Ireland. Campbeltown is above latitude 55 degrees. GG McTavish spent his entire adult life in Alpena which is at latitude 45 degrees. GG was the second doctor in Alpena and its first Fire Chief.
Tonight Nancy is fixing me beans and rice for dinner. I love beans and rice. We will watch NCIS tonight and then I will attempt to get my desk cleaned.
It took some time to complete my workout at the MAC. It seems everyone is taking the week off so they have time to talk. I got a doctor's opinion on the proposed health plan. The cost/benefit of a Brann's sizzler. Several members were forced to take the week off (without pay) because their plant shut down for the holidays.
I did not leave the MAC until 1030. After breakfast and a shower I walked to the Kava House. I had time to read both the DFP and WSJ. I got home about 2 PM. After a quick lunch I retired to my office to catch up on my mail.
I agreed to do a plan check for a set of bridge plans Jennifer Dougherty (Cogent Engineering) is preparing for Midland County. It is good to see that Jennifer has a nice work backlog. In the design business a backlog is always desired.
I also checked Goggle Earth to view Campbeltown, Scotland. This month's National Geographic had an article on Scotland's Western Islands. Campbeltown is on a peninsula that juts out into the North Channel of the Irish Sea. It is near the southern end of the Western Islands. The NG map showed Campbeltown. My Great grandfather McTavish was from Campbeltown. The end of the peninsula Campbeltown is on is only 12 miles from Northern Ireland. Campbeltown is above latitude 55 degrees. GG McTavish spent his entire adult life in Alpena which is at latitude 45 degrees. GG was the second doctor in Alpena and its first Fire Chief.
Tonight Nancy is fixing me beans and rice for dinner. I love beans and rice. We will watch NCIS tonight and then I will attempt to get my desk cleaned.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday December 28, 2009
Back to normal Monday but I should not say that because we have a holiday this week. This morning we had to shovel, so Nancy and I headed outside to clear the walk and drive. We only had about 1/4" to clear and it did not take long. I finished my at home routine and then got in the C2 and headed to the MAC. A lot of members took this week off so I was late getting done because I stopped and talked to the vacationing members.
Being Monday I had to shave both my face and head. I left the MAC late and did not get to the Kava House until 1200. However, the DFP and WSJ had many overlapping articles so I was done reading in less than 1 hour.
After a quick lunch I shoveled the drive and walk again. Then Ms P and I headed out to do some errands. However, my contact started bothering me so I ran 1 errand and returned home to remove the contact. I resumed my errands but Ms P did not want to go.
I stopped by a pet shop and bought Ms P and nice soft bed. I will try to get her to sleep in this bed. I also stopped my Macy's to purchase a no iron white dress shirt. They did not have any.
Last week I took some Kirkland beer bottles along with other bottles to Meijer's for redemption. The Meijer machine would not accept the Kirkland bottles. Today I stopped by Costco to get my bottle deposit. Costco's machine would not accept their bottles. I was steamed so I went to the desk and started to complain. The gal was so nice that I took my money and left a happy man.
My last stop was at Groskopf's to purchase a wallet. They had what I wanted so I used my Christmas gift card to pay for the wallet.
Tonight I plan on going to bed early. I am determined to start getting up earlier. Nancy said what on earth for! your retired. I did get my 30 in today. Keep thinking Spring because today we had 2 minutes more daylight than on the 21th.
After watching House, we downloaded our Christmas photos and Nancy is right now emailing to family. We love our electronic toys.
Being Monday I had to shave both my face and head. I left the MAC late and did not get to the Kava House until 1200. However, the DFP and WSJ had many overlapping articles so I was done reading in less than 1 hour.
After a quick lunch I shoveled the drive and walk again. Then Ms P and I headed out to do some errands. However, my contact started bothering me so I ran 1 errand and returned home to remove the contact. I resumed my errands but Ms P did not want to go.
I stopped by a pet shop and bought Ms P and nice soft bed. I will try to get her to sleep in this bed. I also stopped my Macy's to purchase a no iron white dress shirt. They did not have any.
Last week I took some Kirkland beer bottles along with other bottles to Meijer's for redemption. The Meijer machine would not accept the Kirkland bottles. Today I stopped by Costco to get my bottle deposit. Costco's machine would not accept their bottles. I was steamed so I went to the desk and started to complain. The gal was so nice that I took my money and left a happy man.
My last stop was at Groskopf's to purchase a wallet. They had what I wanted so I used my Christmas gift card to pay for the wallet.
Tonight I plan on going to bed early. I am determined to start getting up earlier. Nancy said what on earth for! your retired. I did get my 30 in today. Keep thinking Spring because today we had 2 minutes more daylight than on the 21th.
After watching House, we downloaded our Christmas photos and Nancy is right now emailing to family. We love our electronic toys.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Sunday December 27, 2009
You know you are getting old when you leave home without your two front teeth. Nancy and I had just loaded up the Taurus for our trip home when Missy noted the missing teeth. I thought our trip home would be very stressful when it really started to snow on the OH Turnpike. However, it only lasted about 30 minutes and then the sun came out. We did not hit any more snow until we hit Kent County. We had 2 inches of snow when we got home. We emptied the car and then shoveled the drive and walk.
It took awhile to unload the bags. When this task was finally done I took a nap. After the nap I checked my email. I had 159 emails on the Scott Civil Engineering site. Not one of them was important. I did not open 1 of the 159. Nancy fixed a great winter evening meal. We had vegetable beef soup with toasted cheese sandwiches. It was great.
I watched part of 60 minutes and then went out and shovelled the walk again. We had about 1" since 3. It was a beautiful winter evening. I am now watching a Jesse Stone movie on TV and using Nancy's Apple to write this blog. I got my 30 minutes in today did you?
It took awhile to unload the bags. When this task was finally done I took a nap. After the nap I checked my email. I had 159 emails on the Scott Civil Engineering site. Not one of them was important. I did not open 1 of the 159. Nancy fixed a great winter evening meal. We had vegetable beef soup with toasted cheese sandwiches. It was great.
I watched part of 60 minutes and then went out and shovelled the walk again. We had about 1" since 3. It was a beautiful winter evening. I am now watching a Jesse Stone movie on TV and using Nancy's Apple to write this blog. I got my 30 minutes in today did you?
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Saturday December 26, 2009
Welcome from Lakewood, OH. We all slept in this morning. Around 0930 we all poured into the Taurus and headed to the West Side Market. We were surprised how empty the place was. We put Akerke in a backpack and then headed for the apple fritter booth. After fritters we got some coffee. Nancy is the only one to make a purchase, other than the coffee and fritters, she bought some grapes and 2 apples.
We next headed to Stein Mart. I was totally unimpressed. Nothing was purchased. At Trader Joe's Nancy did make some purchases. She bought soup and wine. I did fill the Taurus up for our trip home tomorrow.
When we got home I started reading the DFP but decided to go upstairs to take a nap. I got up at 2:30 and it was such a beautiful day I took a 1.5 hour walk. I walked around the metropark near Missy's house. This is a huge park and today it was crowded. There was no ice or snow so a lot of folks got their bikes out for a ride.
Tonight we had left overs and I think we nearly finished everything. While Missy did the dishes, Nancy and I took Ms P and Akerke on a walk around the block. Missy has just finished bathing Akerke and is now trying to get her to settle down.
The weather man said we might make it home tomorrow without much bad weather. We have had a good time in OH.
We next headed to Stein Mart. I was totally unimpressed. Nothing was purchased. At Trader Joe's Nancy did make some purchases. She bought soup and wine. I did fill the Taurus up for our trip home tomorrow.
When we got home I started reading the DFP but decided to go upstairs to take a nap. I got up at 2:30 and it was such a beautiful day I took a 1.5 hour walk. I walked around the metropark near Missy's house. This is a huge park and today it was crowded. There was no ice or snow so a lot of folks got their bikes out for a ride.
Tonight we had left overs and I think we nearly finished everything. While Missy did the dishes, Nancy and I took Ms P and Akerke on a walk around the block. Missy has just finished bathing Akerke and is now trying to get her to settle down.
The weather man said we might make it home tomorrow without much bad weather. We have had a good time in OH.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Friday December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas everyone from Lakewood, OH! The wind picked up speed all night. I bet it was blowing 25 mph this morning. I heard Akerke get up around 0700 this morning. Nancy and I soon followed. We all headed downstairs and immediately took pictures of the tree and presents. Missy then let Akerke start to open packages. She was kind of overwhelmed.
We all got great gifts for Christmas but this morning it was Akerke's special morning, her first Christmas. After the presents we had breakfast of scrambled eggs, pigs in a blanket and other goodies.
I started to get cabin fever so I took out the garbage and then went on a 2 mile walk. It was near noon and the wind was dying down slightly. Except for the wind it was a great day for a walk. The temperature was around 38 and the sidewalks were 100% clear of all ice and snow.
After my walk I read the DFP and then decided to take a short nap. Nancy woke me up around 3 and we had our traditional Christmas light snacks. We had meatballs, shrimp, carrots and a crab meat dip that Missy had made. It was very good.
This evening Nancy was getting cabin fever so we bundled up Akerke put her in the stroller and walked her around the block. Ms P went with us. This afternoon we also Skyped Steve, Debbie and the rest of the Scott team in Long Beach. We had a fun time talking to everyone.
We watched the evening news and then Missy took Akerke to bed. She was really wound up but she is now resting quietly.
I hope every one had a great Christmas Day. Good health to everyone.
We all got great gifts for Christmas but this morning it was Akerke's special morning, her first Christmas. After the presents we had breakfast of scrambled eggs, pigs in a blanket and other goodies.
I started to get cabin fever so I took out the garbage and then went on a 2 mile walk. It was near noon and the wind was dying down slightly. Except for the wind it was a great day for a walk. The temperature was around 38 and the sidewalks were 100% clear of all ice and snow.
After my walk I read the DFP and then decided to take a short nap. Nancy woke me up around 3 and we had our traditional Christmas light snacks. We had meatballs, shrimp, carrots and a crab meat dip that Missy had made. It was very good.
This evening Nancy was getting cabin fever so we bundled up Akerke put her in the stroller and walked her around the block. Ms P went with us. This afternoon we also Skyped Steve, Debbie and the rest of the Scott team in Long Beach. We had a fun time talking to everyone.
We watched the evening news and then Missy took Akerke to bed. She was really wound up but she is now resting quietly.
I hope every one had a great Christmas Day. Good health to everyone.
Thursday December 23, 2009
Christmas Eve. Missy heads to work and I walk to the Caribou for coffee and to read the DFP and WSJ. I selected the Caribou because when I arrived at the Blackbird it was 0655 and not yet open. However, the parking lot was full of folks waiting for the store to open at 0700. I thought it would take to long to get my coffee so I selected the Caribou.
When I got home Nancy and Akerke were ready to go shopping. No sooner had we pulled out of the drive Akerke fell asleep. We stopped at a local grocery store for some supplies and then the Dollar Store. When we got home we loaded Akerke into her stroller and I headed to a local bakery. It is about a mile to the bakery. Once again Akerke fell asleep as soon a I got to the sidewalk. It was cold but she seemed comfortable. I purchased some bread and then headed for home. After lunch Nancy put Akerke down and she fell asleep again with no problem.
Missy did not work a full day and got home in the early afternoon. Nancy had me clean and stuff the turkey. First time this year I had stuffed a turkey. After this exhausting work I took a 1 hour walk. I walked to the metropark.
We had our formal Christmas Eve dinner. We had turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, potatoes and salad. It was great. We finished off the dinner with home made cookies.
Missy gave Akerke her bath and then we watched some TV. Nancy went to bed at 10 but Missy and I stayed up until 1100. It was a great Christmas Eve.
When I got home Nancy and Akerke were ready to go shopping. No sooner had we pulled out of the drive Akerke fell asleep. We stopped at a local grocery store for some supplies and then the Dollar Store. When we got home we loaded Akerke into her stroller and I headed to a local bakery. It is about a mile to the bakery. Once again Akerke fell asleep as soon a I got to the sidewalk. It was cold but she seemed comfortable. I purchased some bread and then headed for home. After lunch Nancy put Akerke down and she fell asleep again with no problem.
Missy did not work a full day and got home in the early afternoon. Nancy had me clean and stuff the turkey. First time this year I had stuffed a turkey. After this exhausting work I took a 1 hour walk. I walked to the metropark.
We had our formal Christmas Eve dinner. We had turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, potatoes and salad. It was great. We finished off the dinner with home made cookies.
Missy gave Akerke her bath and then we watched some TV. Nancy went to bed at 10 but Missy and I stayed up until 1100. It was a great Christmas Eve.
Wednesday December 23, 2009
Nancy and I slept in today because this is a travel day. We start the day with breakfast at the Brandywine. After breakfast we load up the Taurus, including Ms P, and head for Cleveland. It is a good travel day. The sun is shining and the traffic is not too heavy. Driving the speed limits the Taurus gets 24 mpg. We make 3 quick stops to allow Ms P to do her bidness. We arrive at Melissa's about 3:30. Missy and Akerke are still at work and day care. We make our self at home and Nancy starts dinner.
When Missy and Akerke get home we have a good dinner of sloppy joes. We all watch a little TV and then head for bed. Missy has to work tomorrow but we will take care of Akerke.
When Missy and Akerke get home we have a good dinner of sloppy joes. We all watch a little TV and then head for bed. Missy has to work tomorrow but we will take care of Akerke.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Tuesday December 22, 2009
Yes folks I slept in again. Today it was until 0716. It being Tuesday I performed just some brief exercises at home and then strapped on my GPS and ran to the MAC. My running pace was 12'16" per mile. The total distance I ran was 4.8+ miles. It took 59 minutes today. After a quick shower I walked to the Kava House. Because I did not have to watch the parking meter I had time to read both the DFP and WSJ. Every time I read the WSJ I get mad because they usually have a story on the mismanagement of the economy. I also found the article on hackers getting into Citibank very interesting.
After lunch I spent some time enrolling Akerka in the MI Education Fund. I now have all 3 grandkids in the fund. I just hope the fund performs better than it has in the past. I also wrapped Nancy's present.
This evening Nancy and I went to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. The place was jammed and we got the last table. I had the French Dip and Nancy had a chicken sandwich. I have just finished packing for our trip tomorrow to the Cleveland area. The weather should be ok for the drive.
Prior to my marriage to Nancy I had participated in 27 Christmas celebrations. Except for the 3 Christmases I spent overseas in the Navy I spent the remaining 24 in Alpena. I almost spent the Christmas of 1957 in Ann Arbor. I was on the wrestling team and we were going to a meet in PA. We were leaving Ann Arbor on the 27th. I thought it would be too difficult to get to Alpena for Christmas and then back to Ann Arbor in time to leave for the meet. I elected to stay in the East Quad. All the other Quads were closed. The place was empty except for a few foreign students. It was very lonely. I spent one night and decided the next day that I did not want to spend Christmas alone. I got a Greyhound bus to Alpena. I remember walking into the house about 1030. Mother and Dad were playing cards. They were very surprised to see me but was I glad to see them. No one should spend Christmas alone.
After lunch I spent some time enrolling Akerka in the MI Education Fund. I now have all 3 grandkids in the fund. I just hope the fund performs better than it has in the past. I also wrapped Nancy's present.
This evening Nancy and I went to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. The place was jammed and we got the last table. I had the French Dip and Nancy had a chicken sandwich. I have just finished packing for our trip tomorrow to the Cleveland area. The weather should be ok for the drive.
Prior to my marriage to Nancy I had participated in 27 Christmas celebrations. Except for the 3 Christmases I spent overseas in the Navy I spent the remaining 24 in Alpena. I almost spent the Christmas of 1957 in Ann Arbor. I was on the wrestling team and we were going to a meet in PA. We were leaving Ann Arbor on the 27th. I thought it would be too difficult to get to Alpena for Christmas and then back to Ann Arbor in time to leave for the meet. I elected to stay in the East Quad. All the other Quads were closed. The place was empty except for a few foreign students. It was very lonely. I spent one night and decided the next day that I did not want to spend Christmas alone. I got a Greyhound bus to Alpena. I remember walking into the house about 1030. Mother and Dad were playing cards. They were very surprised to see me but was I glad to see them. No one should spend Christmas alone.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday December 21, 2009
Happy Solstice. Tomorrow the days start getting longer. Spring cannot be that far away. This morning I slept in until 0716. I have got to quit playing freecell in the evening. Ms P got up three times last night. I don't know how to solve this problem. We might want to put her in the basement for several days and then move her to a cage upstairs. I am sure Missy would not approve.
After my at-home exercises I got in the C2 and headed to the MAC. Mondays are a busy day at the MAC for me. I left at 1130 and headed to the Kava House. There was not much in the paper because I read both the DFP and WSJ in an hour. I headed for home and ate a quick lunch and then headed downtown. I had a 2 PM GRBA meeting. We added another project to our list. Every time it looks like we will run out of work, the City Commission adds another project.
I got home a little after 3 and spent some time shoveling the walk. At 4 PM Ken Lotterman our computer guy stopped by and helped Nancy and I with several problems. He added a virus protection program to Nancy's computer and set my firewall. He also checked my facebook page and made sure that it is now secure. I don't want any more exotic photo messages sent to my friends. I also now know how to cut and paste from word to my blog.
Nancy and I watched the local and national news while we ate dinner. I watched part of Chris Matthews and then headed outside to shovel the walk. I finished in time to watch House. At 9 we headed to bed. I will download several more books to my Kindle this evening. I did get my 30 in today.
After my at-home exercises I got in the C2 and headed to the MAC. Mondays are a busy day at the MAC for me. I left at 1130 and headed to the Kava House. There was not much in the paper because I read both the DFP and WSJ in an hour. I headed for home and ate a quick lunch and then headed downtown. I had a 2 PM GRBA meeting. We added another project to our list. Every time it looks like we will run out of work, the City Commission adds another project.
I got home a little after 3 and spent some time shoveling the walk. At 4 PM Ken Lotterman our computer guy stopped by and helped Nancy and I with several problems. He added a virus protection program to Nancy's computer and set my firewall. He also checked my facebook page and made sure that it is now secure. I don't want any more exotic photo messages sent to my friends. I also now know how to cut and paste from word to my blog.
Nancy and I watched the local and national news while we ate dinner. I watched part of Chris Matthews and then headed outside to shovel the walk. I finished in time to watch House. At 9 we headed to bed. I will download several more books to my Kindle this evening. I did get my 30 in today.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Sunday December 20, 2009
Last night Ms P had a very active bladder. I took her out three times and Nancy took her out once. At midnight I nearly fell on the garage stairs because of the snow/rain mix. At 0300 I opened a new bag of salt and spread it over the stairs and drive as Ms P did her bidness.
Nancy and I got up at 0646 and packed and headed to the MAC for our 0800 swim. The pool was jammed. We all had to share a lane. We both swam 1500 yards. Like my running speed my swimming speed has also decreased. I use to swim 1500 yards in 42 minutes. This morning it took me 45'30".
Since we will spent Christmas with Missy it was not necessary to go to Meijers for supplies. I did go to the Kava to get coffee. Ms P went with me. She loves to ride in the Taurus.
After Nancy's world famous poached eggs I read the front section of the paper and then took my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap I delivered a check from the OHNA to the publisher of our newsletter and then took a hour walk. It was a great time of day for a walk. It was after five and every one had their Christmas lights on. The city is covered with a blanket of new snow. If you did not get the Christmas spirit after this walk you were dead.
This evening Nancy fixed hamburgers and baked beans. We watched 60 minutes and I am now completing this blog. I have to read some material for tomorrow's GRBA meeting. I also am having a computer guy come by tomorrow to fix some security issues with our computers. I got my 30 in did you?
Nancy and I got up at 0646 and packed and headed to the MAC for our 0800 swim. The pool was jammed. We all had to share a lane. We both swam 1500 yards. Like my running speed my swimming speed has also decreased. I use to swim 1500 yards in 42 minutes. This morning it took me 45'30".
Since we will spent Christmas with Missy it was not necessary to go to Meijers for supplies. I did go to the Kava to get coffee. Ms P went with me. She loves to ride in the Taurus.
After Nancy's world famous poached eggs I read the front section of the paper and then took my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap I delivered a check from the OHNA to the publisher of our newsletter and then took a hour walk. It was a great time of day for a walk. It was after five and every one had their Christmas lights on. The city is covered with a blanket of new snow. If you did not get the Christmas spirit after this walk you were dead.
This evening Nancy fixed hamburgers and baked beans. We watched 60 minutes and I am now completing this blog. I have to read some material for tomorrow's GRBA meeting. I also am having a computer guy come by tomorrow to fix some security issues with our computers. I got my 30 in did you?
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Saturday December 19, 2009
The alarm goes off at 0636 but Nancy is already up. She is heading for body pump while I must still decide. Should I go for a long walk or a 4 mile run? I decided on the run because it is less time consuming.
It snowed last night so before my run I shovelled the walk. Nancy had already done the top of the drive. It was a great day for a run. I ran through fresh snow without foot or tire marks. After my run I ate breakfast at Bills on Michigan Ave. Nancy called me as I was finishing and asked me to bring home a cup of coffee and scone. I complied. I got Ms P and we started running errands. I stopped at Mr Thang's and picked up my toggle coat, then I got some gas and finally I stopped at Ace Hardware and got a bag of deicing salt.
After the errands I parked the C2 and Nancy and I got in the Taurus and headed for Costco. Costco was crowded but nothing like the Saturday before Christmas in Long Beach or Santa Clara. It continues to snow. All my errands wore me out so I took a nap.
This evening Nancy and I headed for Russ's and a quick dinner. Nancy had the soup and salad and I had soup and a double meat burger. Not much on TV so we headed for bed at 9. Lately I have been having a problem. The problem is that I usually play a game of free cell and solitaire before bed. It usually takes me about 40 minutes to win a game so I get to bed late. I should take free cell and solitaire off the computer.
It snowed last night so before my run I shovelled the walk. Nancy had already done the top of the drive. It was a great day for a run. I ran through fresh snow without foot or tire marks. After my run I ate breakfast at Bills on Michigan Ave. Nancy called me as I was finishing and asked me to bring home a cup of coffee and scone. I complied. I got Ms P and we started running errands. I stopped at Mr Thang's and picked up my toggle coat, then I got some gas and finally I stopped at Ace Hardware and got a bag of deicing salt.
After the errands I parked the C2 and Nancy and I got in the Taurus and headed for Costco. Costco was crowded but nothing like the Saturday before Christmas in Long Beach or Santa Clara. It continues to snow. All my errands wore me out so I took a nap.
This evening Nancy and I headed for Russ's and a quick dinner. Nancy had the soup and salad and I had soup and a double meat burger. Not much on TV so we headed for bed at 9. Lately I have been having a problem. The problem is that I usually play a game of free cell and solitaire before bed. It usually takes me about 40 minutes to win a game so I get to bed late. I should take free cell and solitaire off the computer.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Friday December 18, 2009
This morning both Nancy and Bob slept in. We got up at 0640. Today is the day I run to the MAC. I had no pain running today and my time was for the first time below a 12 minute pace. When I got back home Kim the cleaning lady was already her so I took a quick shower got in the C2 and headed to the Kava House. After the Kava House I headed downtown to Perrigo Printing to pick up my personalized note paper. It was not ready so I headed to Woodland Mall. I purchased Nancy's Christmas gift. I was surprised at how crowded the mall was.
I headed back to Perrigo and picked up my note paper. Parking the C2 is easy.
When I parked downtown I had to really crank the steering wheel. When I got in the car the steering wheel was locked as was the ignition. I could not get the car to start. I called Berger and they said they would send a repair man. As I was waiting I continued to try and free the steering wheel and start the car. Finally I moved the tilt steering wheel up and down and the steering wheel unlocked. I got the car started and called Berger and told them to sent the repair man home.
I spent about an hour doing some Christmas Cards and then walked to the post office to mail them. It was 4:55 at the post office and the line was out the door. I hope everyone in line got served.
This evening Nancy and I attended a neighborhood TGIF. It was well attended. The food was great. Nancy and I talked to our neighbors, the Burns, and they told us about a great barge trip they took in France. It sounded like something Nancy and I might enjoy.
On this day in 1962 I was scheduled to leave Midway Island on the 2 PM log flight. I had spent 1 year 2 weeks, 3 days and 13 hours on this rock and I was ready to leave. It was 75 degrees when we left. I changed planes in Hawaii and headed to San Francisco. From San Francisco I flew to Chicago and then to Alpena. I never left a terminal. I had on my tropical weight Navy uniform. When I got off the plane in Alpena my Mom and Dad greeted me. It was 17 degrees below zero. I spent about three week in Alpena. It was great to be home for Christmas.
I headed back to Perrigo and picked up my note paper. Parking the C2 is easy.
When I parked downtown I had to really crank the steering wheel. When I got in the car the steering wheel was locked as was the ignition. I could not get the car to start. I called Berger and they said they would send a repair man. As I was waiting I continued to try and free the steering wheel and start the car. Finally I moved the tilt steering wheel up and down and the steering wheel unlocked. I got the car started and called Berger and told them to sent the repair man home.
I spent about an hour doing some Christmas Cards and then walked to the post office to mail them. It was 4:55 at the post office and the line was out the door. I hope everyone in line got served.
This evening Nancy and I attended a neighborhood TGIF. It was well attended. The food was great. Nancy and I talked to our neighbors, the Burns, and they told us about a great barge trip they took in France. It sounded like something Nancy and I might enjoy.
On this day in 1962 I was scheduled to leave Midway Island on the 2 PM log flight. I had spent 1 year 2 weeks, 3 days and 13 hours on this rock and I was ready to leave. It was 75 degrees when we left. I changed planes in Hawaii and headed to San Francisco. From San Francisco I flew to Chicago and then to Alpena. I never left a terminal. I had on my tropical weight Navy uniform. When I got off the plane in Alpena my Mom and Dad greeted me. It was 17 degrees below zero. I spent about three week in Alpena. It was great to be home for Christmas.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Thursday December 17, 2009
I slept in until 0640 this morning. I am now 100% back to my normal exercise schedule. I drove the C2 to the MAC this morning. It was very cold, 17, but sunny. I had to wear my cool shades. After the MAC I drove to the Kava House and read the DFP. When I drive to the Kava House I don't have time for the WSJ because my parking meter expires just when I finish the DFP. Today's DFP was more doom and gloom. Local governmental agencies in the Detroit area are broke. Police and Fire personnel are being laid off right and left. What really does right and left mean?
After the Kava House I headed downtown to Perrigo Printing. I got Nancy and Bob's Medicare cards laminated. I also bought some personalized note paper.
This afternoon I wrote several more Christmas cards and I also sent some checks to local charities. I finished the afternoon with a 3 mile walk.
Nancy and I resumed our Thursday ritual by eating at Great Lakes Shipping. The place was jammed. I think Thursday is senior citizens night.
We watched MSNBC until 8 and then we watched Bones. It is now 9:27 and I am heading to bed to finish my book. Today we had only 9 hours of daylight. In four days the days will start getting longer.
After the Kava House I headed downtown to Perrigo Printing. I got Nancy and Bob's Medicare cards laminated. I also bought some personalized note paper.
This afternoon I wrote several more Christmas cards and I also sent some checks to local charities. I finished the afternoon with a 3 mile walk.
Nancy and I resumed our Thursday ritual by eating at Great Lakes Shipping. The place was jammed. I think Thursday is senior citizens night.
We watched MSNBC until 8 and then we watched Bones. It is now 9:27 and I am heading to bed to finish my book. Today we had only 9 hours of daylight. In four days the days will start getting longer.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Wednesday December 16,2009
Today is Breakfast Club day. I get up at 0536 and check outside to see if I need to shovel or deice. The drive is clear. The attendance at Breakfast Club was near 100%. Only 1 or 2 empty seats. As usual the breakfast food was great. After the meeting I stopped at the Kava House so I could read the DFP. The DFP is running a series on the steps leading up to GM declaring bankruptcy. It is not very good, only a rehash of their past stories.
After the Kava House I headed to the Kent County Health Department and got my H1N1 shot. I was pleasantly surprised. It was well organized and I had my shot within 5 minutes. After the shot I headed to Meijers to get bird seed and a fruit basket. Nancy took the fruit basket to Meijers Garden for the volunteers at the front desk. A very nice gesture.
After a quick lunch Ms P and I got in the C2 and headed to the post office and then to a local store to purchase a Christmas gift for Nancy. Our next stop was the office. Eric Rickert wanted my opinion on several items. I gave my opinion. Eric and Ryan are busy. This is great in these tough economic times. I remember in 1982 I had to go off payroll for about a month because we had no work.
When Ms P and I got home I decided I needed some exercise so I walked around Reeds Lake, a distance of 6.6 miles. This evening Nancy and I watched two 1/2 hour sitcoms and wondered why they are still on TV. At 9 we headed to bed to read.
After the Kava House I headed to the Kent County Health Department and got my H1N1 shot. I was pleasantly surprised. It was well organized and I had my shot within 5 minutes. After the shot I headed to Meijers to get bird seed and a fruit basket. Nancy took the fruit basket to Meijers Garden for the volunteers at the front desk. A very nice gesture.
After a quick lunch Ms P and I got in the C2 and headed to the post office and then to a local store to purchase a Christmas gift for Nancy. Our next stop was the office. Eric Rickert wanted my opinion on several items. I gave my opinion. Eric and Ryan are busy. This is great in these tough economic times. I remember in 1982 I had to go off payroll for about a month because we had no work.
When Ms P and I got home I decided I needed some exercise so I walked around Reeds Lake, a distance of 6.6 miles. This evening Nancy and I watched two 1/2 hour sitcoms and wondered why they are still on TV. At 9 we headed to bed to read.
Tuesday December 15, 2009
We woke up to a very icy driveway. I got out and salted the drive so Nancy could get to the MAC. We really like the all wheel drive feature on the Taurus. Last night we attended a party at the Nameys and we had no problem going up their icy drive. Our friends with a 2 wheel drive Taurus had difficulty getting up the hill. In fact they had to back down. If you live in ice and snow country all wheel drive is the way to go.
I am back running to the MAC. So I bundled up and ran the 4K to the MAC. I worked out for about 30 minutes and then ran back home. When I got home I noticed that a man driving a mini Cooper was stuck in Ordway's drive. He asked if I would give him a push. The push didn't work so I got a pointed steel shovel and shoveled down to the bare pavement. He was then able to get his sissy car out. Mini-Coopers are not good in ice and snow. After my shower I got the Kindle and walked to the Kava House.
In the afternoon I completed some more Christmas cards and then took a short nap. At 5:20 Nancy and I loaded up the car and headed to the book club Christmas Party. Two members could not attend so the girls invited their husbands. The food and drink were good and everyone had a great time.
I am back running to the MAC. So I bundled up and ran the 4K to the MAC. I worked out for about 30 minutes and then ran back home. When I got home I noticed that a man driving a mini Cooper was stuck in Ordway's drive. He asked if I would give him a push. The push didn't work so I got a pointed steel shovel and shoveled down to the bare pavement. He was then able to get his sissy car out. Mini-Coopers are not good in ice and snow. After my shower I got the Kindle and walked to the Kava House.
In the afternoon I completed some more Christmas cards and then took a short nap. At 5:20 Nancy and I loaded up the car and headed to the book club Christmas Party. Two members could not attend so the girls invited their husbands. The food and drink were good and everyone had a great time.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Monday December 14, 2009
It started out as a gloomy, misty December day and it remained that way all day. After my morning routine at home, I got in the C2 and headed for the MAC. I had to use the windshield wipers during the trip. The upside of all this moisture is that my skin has not dried out like it normally does in the cold months.
After the MAC I drove to Berger Chevy and asked the service guy how to remove the head rest. He pulled and pulled and the head rest would not move. He finally found a small hole in the head rest bracket that you stick a pin in to release the head rest. I can now install seat covers. The first problem solved. I then headed to Mr Thang's shop to get a toggle fixed on my toggle coat. Ms Thang said she could fix the toggle. Second problem solved. I then headed for the Kent County Health Department to sign up for a H1N1 shot. I am scheduled for 1045 on Wednesday. Third problem solved. I am having such a good morning that I take a well deserved break at the Kava House.
This afternoon I spent some time writing Christmas Cards. I did type some of my comments to friends. I then inserted the typed comments in the Christmas card. Is this tacky or should cards be hand written?
I walked over to the mail box at EGR city hall. It is a 3 mile walk. This evening I took Ms P out and it appears that the rain has stopped. The temperature is suppose to go down to the low teens tonight. I want the temperature to stay below 32 until St Patrick's Day. Remember St Patrick's Day is also GG birthday. GG would have been 156 on St Pat's Day, 2010. I got my 30 in today did you?
After the MAC I drove to Berger Chevy and asked the service guy how to remove the head rest. He pulled and pulled and the head rest would not move. He finally found a small hole in the head rest bracket that you stick a pin in to release the head rest. I can now install seat covers. The first problem solved. I then headed to Mr Thang's shop to get a toggle fixed on my toggle coat. Ms Thang said she could fix the toggle. Second problem solved. I then headed for the Kent County Health Department to sign up for a H1N1 shot. I am scheduled for 1045 on Wednesday. Third problem solved. I am having such a good morning that I take a well deserved break at the Kava House.
This afternoon I spent some time writing Christmas Cards. I did type some of my comments to friends. I then inserted the typed comments in the Christmas card. Is this tacky or should cards be hand written?
I walked over to the mail box at EGR city hall. It is a 3 mile walk. This evening I took Ms P out and it appears that the rain has stopped. The temperature is suppose to go down to the low teens tonight. I want the temperature to stay below 32 until St Patrick's Day. Remember St Patrick's Day is also GG birthday. GG would have been 156 on St Pat's Day, 2010. I got my 30 in today did you?
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Sunday December 13, 2009
Ms P got me up 2 times last night. The first time, 2330, the ice was starting to build up on the drive. At 0230 the ice was so thick that even Ms P with 4 wheel drive could not negotiate the drive. The alarm goes off at 0646 and Nancy and I get ready for our swim. The first thing that I had to do was salt the drive. The temperature was now 34 degrees so the salt worked immediately. We got to the MAC with no problem. We both swam for 45 minutes, 1500 yards.
It being Sunday we headed to Meijers for supplies. I took in some bottles for the refund. Much to my surprise the Kirkland beer from Costco would not be accepted by the machine. I will take them back to Costco and tell them they are in violation of MI law. I was steamed. However, it did not last long because Nancy fixed her world famous poached eggs for breakfast.
I took a short nap this afternoon. After the nap I took Nancy's Christmas cards to the mailbox at the EGR city hall. It was a 3 mile walk. Dinner tonight was tomato soup and ham sandwiches. Right now I am typing this blog on Nancy's Apple. We are watching the Mentalist on TV. Just remember in 11 days the days will start getting longer.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Saturday December 12, 2009
The alarm goes off at 0626 and Nancy gets up and heads to her early body pump class at the MAC. I sleep in until 0646. I put on warm running pants and head out for a run. I wore my GPS. I ran 4.25 miles with an average speed on 12'14" per mile. That is pretty slow.
After a quick shower I get in the C2 and head for Bill's. Dollar for dollar Bill's is the best breakfast place in GR. I get home, load up Ms P and we head for Auto Zone. I purchased a front seat cover for the C2. It took some time getting the cover installed. The biggest problem I had was maneuvering around the car. It is a very small car. I would not want to sit in the back seat for a long trip.
This afternoon Nancy and I drove to Rockford to visit the Hush Puppy store. I bought a pair of Merrill fleece lined sliders and Nancy got a pair of casual shoes. We took Ms P with us. She likes to run errands.
I am starting to write some Christmas cards. That is right folks Bob is writing Christmas cards. Do I have too much time on my hands. I walked to the post office to mail some letters.
This evening Nancy and I had dinner at Russ's. I had the bread bowl with pea soup. Nancy had chicken rice soup and a salad. It is now 9:42 and I am watching the Bourne Supermancy while writing this blog. I cannot multi-task.
For the first time in a week we had a nice sunny day. The temperature got above 32 and our driveway is now bare.
After a quick shower I get in the C2 and head for Bill's. Dollar for dollar Bill's is the best breakfast place in GR. I get home, load up Ms P and we head for Auto Zone. I purchased a front seat cover for the C2. It took some time getting the cover installed. The biggest problem I had was maneuvering around the car. It is a very small car. I would not want to sit in the back seat for a long trip.
This afternoon Nancy and I drove to Rockford to visit the Hush Puppy store. I bought a pair of Merrill fleece lined sliders and Nancy got a pair of casual shoes. We took Ms P with us. She likes to run errands.
I am starting to write some Christmas cards. That is right folks Bob is writing Christmas cards. Do I have too much time on my hands. I walked to the post office to mail some letters.
This evening Nancy and I had dinner at Russ's. I had the bread bowl with pea soup. Nancy had chicken rice soup and a salad. It is now 9:42 and I am watching the Bourne Supermancy while writing this blog. I cannot multi-task.
For the first time in a week we had a nice sunny day. The temperature got above 32 and our driveway is now bare.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Friday December 11, 2009
Nancy and I started the day shovelling snow. We got about 3 inches over night. The temperature today was in the teens. After shovelling I completed my at home exercises and then got in the C2 and headed for the MAC. I am pleasantly surprised how well the C2 performs in snow. After the MAC I go to Berger Chevy and pick up a set of floor mats for the C2. I end the morning at the Kava House.
Today's DFP continues its reporting on the recently released test scores for Detroit's 4 and 8 graders. Detroit has the honor of having the lowest test scores ever recorded for the tests. It is very discouraging. The DFP also reported that 52% of adults in Detroit are functionally illiterate. The bad news continued for the city. A deputy mayor under Kilpatrick was charged with taking a $50,000 bribe. It is sad because Detroit was a great city and I had many college friends who were graduates of the Detroit school system. Their high school education was considered superior to most high schools in Michigan.
After a quick lunch I checked my email and when Nancy got home for the hospital we head to Costco. The parking lot at Costco was jammed. It is the holiday season and they had plenty of free samples available.
I spent the rest of the afternoon on my community project. Tonight Nancy and I headed to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. The place was jammed. Luckily we found a table. We sat next to a couple that Nancy knew from one of her classes at the MAC. They were fun to talk to. In fact I will have to tell Steve that they knew Jim Waybright from GRHA hockey. Max Waybright was on one of Steve's hockey teams.
It is not suppose to snow tonight so we will not have to shovel tomorrow. I cannot go for a bike or kayak ride so I think I will go for a short run. Tomorrow afternoon Nancy and I are going to the Hush Puppy store in Rockford. I hope everyone got their 30 in today.
Today's DFP continues its reporting on the recently released test scores for Detroit's 4 and 8 graders. Detroit has the honor of having the lowest test scores ever recorded for the tests. It is very discouraging. The DFP also reported that 52% of adults in Detroit are functionally illiterate. The bad news continued for the city. A deputy mayor under Kilpatrick was charged with taking a $50,000 bribe. It is sad because Detroit was a great city and I had many college friends who were graduates of the Detroit school system. Their high school education was considered superior to most high schools in Michigan.
After a quick lunch I checked my email and when Nancy got home for the hospital we head to Costco. The parking lot at Costco was jammed. It is the holiday season and they had plenty of free samples available.
I spent the rest of the afternoon on my community project. Tonight Nancy and I headed to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. The place was jammed. Luckily we found a table. We sat next to a couple that Nancy knew from one of her classes at the MAC. They were fun to talk to. In fact I will have to tell Steve that they knew Jim Waybright from GRHA hockey. Max Waybright was on one of Steve's hockey teams.
It is not suppose to snow tonight so we will not have to shovel tomorrow. I cannot go for a bike or kayak ride so I think I will go for a short run. Tomorrow afternoon Nancy and I are going to the Hush Puppy store in Rockford. I hope everyone got their 30 in today.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Thursday December 10, 2009
It was 33 when I took Ms P out at 0230 to do her bidness. It was 13 at noon. Blizzard warnings have been up all day. Nancy and I started our day by shovelling snow. I thought the roads were too bad to go to the MAC. But Nancy decided that with her all wheel drive she would have no problem. She was right.
I did all my exercises at home and then walked to the Kava House. After my morning coffee I got in the C2 and headed to the eye doctor to pick up my glasses with a new lens. I then headed to the MAC and did my running and my dead lift exercises.
The squirrels are driving me crazy. They keep getting into the bird feeder. I decided that I would start putting out squirrel food and maybe that will keep them from the bird feeder. I put out the squirrel food and then shoveled the driveway.
I spent about 2 hours reading all the mail I got while on vacation. I am now caught up and have all the important stuff filed. It was snowing so bad at 5 that Nancy said we should stay home. She fixed tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. We did not get a GRP today so I read an article in Vanity Fair about Erik Prince of Blackwater fame. He is from Holland, MI and was an All State Soccer player at Holland Christian High School. One of our employees went to high school with him. The article was not very flattering. Before writing this blog I went outside and finished shovelling the walk. I think it has finally stopped snowing.
I did all my exercises at home and then walked to the Kava House. After my morning coffee I got in the C2 and headed to the eye doctor to pick up my glasses with a new lens. I then headed to the MAC and did my running and my dead lift exercises.
The squirrels are driving me crazy. They keep getting into the bird feeder. I decided that I would start putting out squirrel food and maybe that will keep them from the bird feeder. I put out the squirrel food and then shoveled the driveway.
I spent about 2 hours reading all the mail I got while on vacation. I am now caught up and have all the important stuff filed. It was snowing so bad at 5 that Nancy said we should stay home. She fixed tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. We did not get a GRP today so I read an article in Vanity Fair about Erik Prince of Blackwater fame. He is from Holland, MI and was an All State Soccer player at Holland Christian High School. One of our employees went to high school with him. The article was not very flattering. Before writing this blog I went outside and finished shovelling the walk. I think it has finally stopped snowing.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Wednesday December 9, 2009
It snowed last night so Nancy and I had to shovel. The snow was wet and heavy. Wednesday is my easy day so after shovelling I got in the C2 and headed for Bill's on Michigan. Bill's is the preferred dining establishment for all snow plow drivers. Therefore the food must be good. It was.
After breakfast I stopped by the post office and mailed packages to Steve and Debbie. I was surprised but the post office was empty. I then stopped home and got Ms P to help me run some errands. I stopped at Auto Zone to see if they had seat covers for the C2. They did not but they did have a seat cover for the entire back seat. I bought it. The back seat is the preferred seat for Ms P. I also stopped at Gazelle Sport to see if they had any small backpacks. I looked over their selection and decided to keep using the one I have. I did notice some very cleverly designed running shoes that had a waterproof covering.
I wanted to be home by 1300 because the US Weather Service issued a blizzard warning starting at 1300. When I got home I took a 3 mile walk. The winds were brisk but the storm had not yet started. I spent the rest of the afternoon checking my mail and paying some bills. We did talk to Missy and Akerke on Skype this afternoon. Missy's new computer has a built in web cam. Video calls are great.
Nancy's book club was cancelled tonight because of the storm. She prepared a shrimp stir fry dish. It was great. Not much on TV so I headed upstairs at 8:30. It is now 9:20 and I want to read at least 2 chapters of my book. I got my 30 in today, did you?
After breakfast I stopped by the post office and mailed packages to Steve and Debbie. I was surprised but the post office was empty. I then stopped home and got Ms P to help me run some errands. I stopped at Auto Zone to see if they had seat covers for the C2. They did not but they did have a seat cover for the entire back seat. I bought it. The back seat is the preferred seat for Ms P. I also stopped at Gazelle Sport to see if they had any small backpacks. I looked over their selection and decided to keep using the one I have. I did notice some very cleverly designed running shoes that had a waterproof covering.
I wanted to be home by 1300 because the US Weather Service issued a blizzard warning starting at 1300. When I got home I took a 3 mile walk. The winds were brisk but the storm had not yet started. I spent the rest of the afternoon checking my mail and paying some bills. We did talk to Missy and Akerke on Skype this afternoon. Missy's new computer has a built in web cam. Video calls are great.
Nancy's book club was cancelled tonight because of the storm. She prepared a shrimp stir fry dish. It was great. Not much on TV so I headed upstairs at 8:30. It is now 9:20 and I want to read at least 2 chapters of my book. I got my 30 in today, did you?
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Tuesday December 8, 2009
I had trouble sleeping last night. So I got up at 0430, packed my bag, put Ms P in the C2 and headed to GR. I got to GR about 1030. I wanted to miss the storm and I did. When I got home I had to run some errands.
My new contacts were in at Dr Anderson's. I don't know if I commented on how great my new contact prescription is. My ability to read street signs has really improved. After the eye doctor I stopped by Berger Chevy and asked if they forgot to put floor mats in the car. They said the little C2 does not come with floor mats but I could purchase a set for $70. I said no thanks.
I stopped by the Chow Hound to purchase some food for Ms P. Also checked at Michigan Truck to see if they had seat covers for the C2. I struck out again. So I headed home and had lunch. After lunch I started going through the accumulated mail. This was very tiring so I took a nap.
I am now caught up on my blogs. Tonight I will watch NCIS and then head to bed. According to Debbie every hour of time difference requires 1 day to recover from jet lag. I have three days to go.
My new contacts were in at Dr Anderson's. I don't know if I commented on how great my new contact prescription is. My ability to read street signs has really improved. After the eye doctor I stopped by Berger Chevy and asked if they forgot to put floor mats in the car. They said the little C2 does not come with floor mats but I could purchase a set for $70. I said no thanks.
I stopped by the Chow Hound to purchase some food for Ms P. Also checked at Michigan Truck to see if they had seat covers for the C2. I struck out again. So I headed home and had lunch. After lunch I started going through the accumulated mail. This was very tiring so I took a nap.
I am now caught up on my blogs. Tonight I will watch NCIS and then head to bed. According to Debbie every hour of time difference requires 1 day to recover from jet lag. I have three days to go.
Monday December 7, 2009
Today is Pearl Harbor Day. I was 3 years old when the attack took place. This attack had a profound impact on the USA and my immediate family. Withing a year my dad who was 35 at the time of the attack was told that the US needed civil engineers. He was conscripted to work as a civilian for the army. He worked for about 2 years. In 1943 the city manager of Alpena was drafted and the army released my dad so he could take the city manager job. My dad's two younger brothers were drafted. Gas, sugar and other items were rationed. I remember walking one cold winter evening with my mother and asking what the flag with a star in the window meant. Mother said it meant the family had a son in the military. Nearly every home on our block had a flag. I can remember one evening, when dad was city manager, walking to city hall so dad could pick up some papers. Dad talked to an older gentleman who had a civil defense helmet on. Dad said that he had just completed a 4 hour watch sitting atop the city hall looking for German planes. Every one was involved.
Tobacco was rationed so my mother and her friends who smoked would buy bags of tobacco and filter paper. They would all sit around rolling cigarettes. They had a machine that would roll the cigarette.
Today I am going to Lakewood, OH to pick up Ms P. After a short workout I aimed the C2 to OH. The C2 averaged about 34 mpg on the trip. I did stop at Cabella's. The store was crowded but I did not purchase anything. I think Gander Mountain and Jay's are better stores.
All the girls in OH are doing fine. Akerke was very active and I was pleased how she and Missy have bonded. Ms P is a little jealous, in fact, she growls at Akerke when she feels threatened. We all went out to dinner. Akerke performed well. I had a hamburger and beer. In fact 2 beers. When we got home I feel asleep watching TV and Missy ordered me to bed. It is 290 miles from GR to OH.
Debbie visited Missy this weekend and she left early Monday. I was disappointed that I missed her.
Tobacco was rationed so my mother and her friends who smoked would buy bags of tobacco and filter paper. They would all sit around rolling cigarettes. They had a machine that would roll the cigarette.
Today I am going to Lakewood, OH to pick up Ms P. After a short workout I aimed the C2 to OH. The C2 averaged about 34 mpg on the trip. I did stop at Cabella's. The store was crowded but I did not purchase anything. I think Gander Mountain and Jay's are better stores.
All the girls in OH are doing fine. Akerke was very active and I was pleased how she and Missy have bonded. Ms P is a little jealous, in fact, she growls at Akerke when she feels threatened. We all went out to dinner. Akerke performed well. I had a hamburger and beer. In fact 2 beers. When we got home I feel asleep watching TV and Missy ordered me to bed. It is 290 miles from GR to OH.
Debbie visited Missy this weekend and she left early Monday. I was disappointed that I missed her.
Sunday December 6, 2009
In an effort to get our bodies back to normal Nancy and I head to the MAC and our Sunday morning swim. But before we go, the walk had to be shovelled. I had to get the shovels down from the garage. It took about 30 minutes to clean the drive and walk.
Instead of swimming 45 minutes we do 30 minutes. After the MAC we head to Meijers and start purchasing all kinds of goodies to fill up our depleted larder. We also have to purchase some supplies for Ms P who will be visiting us later this week.
I did take my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap I took a 3 mile walk. Nancy fixed hamburgers for dinner. We watched 60 minutes and then headed for bed. Jet lag is harder on us old folks.
Instead of swimming 45 minutes we do 30 minutes. After the MAC we head to Meijers and start purchasing all kinds of goodies to fill up our depleted larder. We also have to purchase some supplies for Ms P who will be visiting us later this week.
I did take my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap I took a 3 mile walk. Nancy fixed hamburgers for dinner. We watched 60 minutes and then headed for bed. Jet lag is harder on us old folks.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Friday November 27 to Saturday December 5, 2009
In case you did not know this blog has been silent for the past week. During the week Nancy and Bob have been in Germany soaking up the Germanic culture. It was a great trip. The following is a brief of our trip.
Friday November 27, 2009. We get to sleep in because our flight out of GR does not leave until almost 1. We are going to Chicago and then on to Munich, Germany. We are flying United all the way. Our flight out of Chicago left at 6 PM. The flight was smooth and we arrived in Munich at 0950 Saturday morning. We upgraded to Economy Plus and recommend it to all you folks that are taking a flight greater than 3 hours.
Saturday November 28, 2009. Our first problem was to find the best way to get to our hotel which is located 45 km from the airport. We took the train. We purchased an all day pass that allowed us to use all forms of public transportation for the day. The ticket machine was confusing but Nancy finally figured it out. When you purchase a ticket you have to validate it at a blue machine. The validated ticket allows you to get on any form of public transportation. There are no turnstiles, you just get on the train or subway. It is sort of like the honor system. If you get caught without a ticket you pay a big fine but we were never stopped. The train took us to the main railway station in downtown Munich. We walked to our hotel. We had a good map so we had little problem finding the hotel. We stayed at the Sheraton Four Points. The room were clean and we got a free breakfast every morning.
After we getting settled in the hotel, we got on the subway and headed to the Marienplatz which is the center of the old city. During the Christmas season all cities have Christmas festivals. The festivals are like food and craft fairs. Food booths and small stalls selling Christmas ornaments and other Christmas items are set up in the streets. The streets are closed and pedestrians can walk around and purchase everything from beer and brats to ornaments. On this Saturday it was so crowded that we had trouble getting around. In fact we tried to get into the Hofbrauhause (?) but it was so crowded we could not find a seat.
We took the subway back to the Hotel and then walked around another festival near the Hotel. Dinner was at a local establishment. I had a traditional Bavarian Dinner that included sauerkraut and beer. We crashed before 7.
Sunday November 29, 2009. We slept in and then had breakfast at the Hotel. The breakfast was buffet style. It was very good. I usually had several types of bread, scrambled eggs, sweet roll, an apple and coffee. Breakfast was our main meal of the day. Our first order of business was to get our Eurorail Pass validated and find out how long it took us to walk to the train station. We accomplished our mission. It took 20 minutes to walk to the station. We took the subway to the Munich Science Museum. It was really good. We took an afternoon nap and then walked over to the Christmas Festival near our hotel.
Monday November 30, 2009. We got up early because we had a 0700 train to catch to Zurich. It was too early for breakfast but a cook did give us some rolls to take with us. The train was scheduled to leave at 0712 and it left at 0712. We reserved seats on this train but it was not full so for the rest of the week we did not get reservations. It was a 4 hour ride to Zurich. We were delayed a hour because some one jumped in front of a train and it took the authorities some time to clear the site.
I really enjoyed riding the train and looking out the window. I was surprised how much of the land is farmland. The farms look well maintained and prosperous. The small towns also looked quite prosperous. All the homes were multi level. I did not see a single story home.
I thought that Switzerland was able to remain neutral because it was surrounded by mountains. However, I did not see any insurmountable mountains on our trip to Zurich. It rained and snowed during our stay in Zurich. We walked around the old city. Zurich like Munich appears very upscale. We saw all the high end stores. Nancy had read about a chocolate shop that had the world's best hot chocolate. We stopped and each had a cup. The hot chocolate was 3.0. The price was $26. Europe is not cheap. The Euro was trading for $1.56. We took the 6 PM train back to Munich and got back after 10.
Tuesday December 1, 2009. Today we traveled to Innsbruck, Austria. The train did not leave until 0915 so we had a leisurely breakfast. The train trip only took 2 hours. Innsbruck is in the Alps but it was so foggy that we only caught an occasional glance of the mountains. Again we walked around the old section of the town. Innsbruck has created pedestrian malls by closing large areas to cars. Christmas and food booths were everywhere. We caught the 4PM train back to Munich. We had dinner at a local beer garden. I had the goulash soup and sausages and boiled potatoes.
Munich is further north than GR so it gets dark around 4 PM. All of our return trips back to Munich were in the dark.
Wednesday December 2, 2009. We stayed in Munich today. Our first stop was the museum of modern art. Yes folks I visited an art museum. We were provided recorders that had canned talks about the major pieces of art. I found the recorders very helpful. We spent 2.5 hours in the museum. I enjoyed the tour. After an art museum it is only fair that we head to the Hofbrauhause for a glass of beer. This time the place was not so crowded. We sat down had a leisurely beer and listened to the German band. We had another traditional German dinner at a local pub.
Thursday December 3, 2009. Today we have our longest rail trip. We are heading to Vienna. The trip took over 4 hours. The train was super streamlined. They had monitors showing the next stop and train speed. On one stretch the train speed reached 120 mph (200 kph). I had another great time looking out the window and watching the countryside. When we got to Vienna we had to take the subway to get to the center of town. This was the only time the train did not stop in the center of town. We spent about 3 hours walking around the old city. We got back to Munich around 10PM.
Friday December 4, 2009. We still had time on our Eurorail pass. I checked the schedule and Nurnberg was only 50 minutes away. Nurnberg was the surprise on the trip. Both Nancy and I liked Nurnberg. We walked around town. Looked in several churches and visited a castle. Nancy bought presents for the grand kids. They have done a great job making the city pedestrian friendly.
Saturday December 5, 2009. We get up at 0430 and get ready to head home. We had a 0900 flight to London. We had a little over an hour in London and then headed home. The flight to Chicago was uneventful. We had a 4 hour wait in Chicago. When we got to GR we noted several inches of snow. The snow was too deep to get the taxi up the driveway. I lugged the bags through the snow.
We spent a week looking around southern Germany, Switzerland and Austria. I had never been in Switzerland or Austria. I especially enjoyed the train trips. We travelled through farm lands, pine forests and small towns. I think I got a feel for the area. I never saw a beat up car, in fact I never saw a car over 4 years old. This area appears to have survived the recent economic downturn better than the US.
The US has been criticized for putting too much emphasis on Christmas. We can't hold a candle to Germany. It looks like the stores have been pushing Christmas for weeks. It was funny to walk into a store and hear the PA system playing Christmas songs in English. I also noted that every kid had a cell phone and was totally engrossed in their phone. It is indeed a small world.
Friday November 27, 2009. We get to sleep in because our flight out of GR does not leave until almost 1. We are going to Chicago and then on to Munich, Germany. We are flying United all the way. Our flight out of Chicago left at 6 PM. The flight was smooth and we arrived in Munich at 0950 Saturday morning. We upgraded to Economy Plus and recommend it to all you folks that are taking a flight greater than 3 hours.
Saturday November 28, 2009. Our first problem was to find the best way to get to our hotel which is located 45 km from the airport. We took the train. We purchased an all day pass that allowed us to use all forms of public transportation for the day. The ticket machine was confusing but Nancy finally figured it out. When you purchase a ticket you have to validate it at a blue machine. The validated ticket allows you to get on any form of public transportation. There are no turnstiles, you just get on the train or subway. It is sort of like the honor system. If you get caught without a ticket you pay a big fine but we were never stopped. The train took us to the main railway station in downtown Munich. We walked to our hotel. We had a good map so we had little problem finding the hotel. We stayed at the Sheraton Four Points. The room were clean and we got a free breakfast every morning.
After we getting settled in the hotel, we got on the subway and headed to the Marienplatz which is the center of the old city. During the Christmas season all cities have Christmas festivals. The festivals are like food and craft fairs. Food booths and small stalls selling Christmas ornaments and other Christmas items are set up in the streets. The streets are closed and pedestrians can walk around and purchase everything from beer and brats to ornaments. On this Saturday it was so crowded that we had trouble getting around. In fact we tried to get into the Hofbrauhause (?) but it was so crowded we could not find a seat.
We took the subway back to the Hotel and then walked around another festival near the Hotel. Dinner was at a local establishment. I had a traditional Bavarian Dinner that included sauerkraut and beer. We crashed before 7.
Sunday November 29, 2009. We slept in and then had breakfast at the Hotel. The breakfast was buffet style. It was very good. I usually had several types of bread, scrambled eggs, sweet roll, an apple and coffee. Breakfast was our main meal of the day. Our first order of business was to get our Eurorail Pass validated and find out how long it took us to walk to the train station. We accomplished our mission. It took 20 minutes to walk to the station. We took the subway to the Munich Science Museum. It was really good. We took an afternoon nap and then walked over to the Christmas Festival near our hotel.
Monday November 30, 2009. We got up early because we had a 0700 train to catch to Zurich. It was too early for breakfast but a cook did give us some rolls to take with us. The train was scheduled to leave at 0712 and it left at 0712. We reserved seats on this train but it was not full so for the rest of the week we did not get reservations. It was a 4 hour ride to Zurich. We were delayed a hour because some one jumped in front of a train and it took the authorities some time to clear the site.
I really enjoyed riding the train and looking out the window. I was surprised how much of the land is farmland. The farms look well maintained and prosperous. The small towns also looked quite prosperous. All the homes were multi level. I did not see a single story home.
I thought that Switzerland was able to remain neutral because it was surrounded by mountains. However, I did not see any insurmountable mountains on our trip to Zurich. It rained and snowed during our stay in Zurich. We walked around the old city. Zurich like Munich appears very upscale. We saw all the high end stores. Nancy had read about a chocolate shop that had the world's best hot chocolate. We stopped and each had a cup. The hot chocolate was 3.0. The price was $26. Europe is not cheap. The Euro was trading for $1.56. We took the 6 PM train back to Munich and got back after 10.
Tuesday December 1, 2009. Today we traveled to Innsbruck, Austria. The train did not leave until 0915 so we had a leisurely breakfast. The train trip only took 2 hours. Innsbruck is in the Alps but it was so foggy that we only caught an occasional glance of the mountains. Again we walked around the old section of the town. Innsbruck has created pedestrian malls by closing large areas to cars. Christmas and food booths were everywhere. We caught the 4PM train back to Munich. We had dinner at a local beer garden. I had the goulash soup and sausages and boiled potatoes.
Munich is further north than GR so it gets dark around 4 PM. All of our return trips back to Munich were in the dark.
Wednesday December 2, 2009. We stayed in Munich today. Our first stop was the museum of modern art. Yes folks I visited an art museum. We were provided recorders that had canned talks about the major pieces of art. I found the recorders very helpful. We spent 2.5 hours in the museum. I enjoyed the tour. After an art museum it is only fair that we head to the Hofbrauhause for a glass of beer. This time the place was not so crowded. We sat down had a leisurely beer and listened to the German band. We had another traditional German dinner at a local pub.
Thursday December 3, 2009. Today we have our longest rail trip. We are heading to Vienna. The trip took over 4 hours. The train was super streamlined. They had monitors showing the next stop and train speed. On one stretch the train speed reached 120 mph (200 kph). I had another great time looking out the window and watching the countryside. When we got to Vienna we had to take the subway to get to the center of town. This was the only time the train did not stop in the center of town. We spent about 3 hours walking around the old city. We got back to Munich around 10PM.
Friday December 4, 2009. We still had time on our Eurorail pass. I checked the schedule and Nurnberg was only 50 minutes away. Nurnberg was the surprise on the trip. Both Nancy and I liked Nurnberg. We walked around town. Looked in several churches and visited a castle. Nancy bought presents for the grand kids. They have done a great job making the city pedestrian friendly.
Saturday December 5, 2009. We get up at 0430 and get ready to head home. We had a 0900 flight to London. We had a little over an hour in London and then headed home. The flight to Chicago was uneventful. We had a 4 hour wait in Chicago. When we got to GR we noted several inches of snow. The snow was too deep to get the taxi up the driveway. I lugged the bags through the snow.
We spent a week looking around southern Germany, Switzerland and Austria. I had never been in Switzerland or Austria. I especially enjoyed the train trips. We travelled through farm lands, pine forests and small towns. I think I got a feel for the area. I never saw a beat up car, in fact I never saw a car over 4 years old. This area appears to have survived the recent economic downturn better than the US.
The US has been criticized for putting too much emphasis on Christmas. We can't hold a candle to Germany. It looks like the stores have been pushing Christmas for weeks. It was funny to walk into a store and hear the PA system playing Christmas songs in English. I also noted that every kid had a cell phone and was totally engrossed in their phone. It is indeed a small world.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thursday November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving everyone. This morning Nancy got up before 0730 so she could be at the MAC for her 0800 class. I took my time and did my at home morning routine at 50%. I drove the C2 to the MAC. I was surprised at how crowded the place was. I am assuming that every one is burning off some calories before the big meal. I did my MAC routine also at 50%.
I stopped by D&W to get a GRP and then at Starbucks to get some coffee. Both places were crowded. When I got home I spent some time on google earth checking out places of interest in Munich. I love google earth. Around 2 Nancy and I headed to Perkins for a light lunch. I had turkey breast with mashed potatoes and gravy. Nancy had the same. We topped it off with a piece of pumpkin pie.
We did contact all the kids and talked to them. This is my 71st Thanksgiving. The first time I had Thanksgiving dinner away from my family was in 1961. I ate at the BOQ at the Pearl Harbor Navy Base.
Modern tools make traveling easy. Nancy printed out our boarding passes and we can locate our hotels using google earth. Toys are useful and fun. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.
I stopped by D&W to get a GRP and then at Starbucks to get some coffee. Both places were crowded. When I got home I spent some time on google earth checking out places of interest in Munich. I love google earth. Around 2 Nancy and I headed to Perkins for a light lunch. I had turkey breast with mashed potatoes and gravy. Nancy had the same. We topped it off with a piece of pumpkin pie.
We did contact all the kids and talked to them. This is my 71st Thanksgiving. The first time I had Thanksgiving dinner away from my family was in 1961. I ate at the BOQ at the Pearl Harbor Navy Base.
Modern tools make traveling easy. Nancy printed out our boarding passes and we can locate our hotels using google earth. Toys are useful and fun. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wednesday November 25, 2009
Do I need a vacation or what? I slept in until 0730 this morning. However, it is Wednesday my easy day. I get in the C2 and head for the Omelet Shop. I had their oatmeal and toast. They have the best oatmeal in town. After breakfast I stop by the Chevy dealer and get nitrogen placed in my tires. I had nitrogen in the Aztek and I think it is better than just plain air. Yesterday I got an email from Onstar telling me that my tire pressure was low. How about that.
I decided to take a bike ride before I go swimming at noon. Since it was sprinkling I put on my rain pants and rode around Reeds Lake. I started going around again but when I got to the East Beltline I headed south to Burton and took Burton to the MAC. The pool was crowded today. I had to share a lane. I swam 1,000 yard.
I had a quick lunch and then started packing for our big trip. I always pack too much so I am making an effort to take only what I need. I talked to our neighbor, Bob Calloway, about our leaving and asked if he would check around the house each day. He has done it before.
Tonight is cereal night. Nancy and I watched the news and then a couple of cop shows. It is now 11:21 and I should head for bed. Maybe I am sleeping in because I stay up too late?
I decided to take a bike ride before I go swimming at noon. Since it was sprinkling I put on my rain pants and rode around Reeds Lake. I started going around again but when I got to the East Beltline I headed south to Burton and took Burton to the MAC. The pool was crowded today. I had to share a lane. I swam 1,000 yard.
I had a quick lunch and then started packing for our big trip. I always pack too much so I am making an effort to take only what I need. I talked to our neighbor, Bob Calloway, about our leaving and asked if he would check around the house each day. He has done it before.
Tonight is cereal night. Nancy and I watched the news and then a couple of cop shows. It is now 11:21 and I should head for bed. Maybe I am sleeping in because I stay up too late?
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Tuesday November 24, 2009
I got up at 0630 and got about my morning routine. This will be my last serious workout before going on our big adventure. I rode the AT bike to the MAC today. On my ride to the Kava House I passed a woman sitting outside her car and making a cell phone call. I got about a block past her when I realized that she was in distress. I turned around and when I got to her a jogger also was passing by. The jogger was trained as a paramedic. She was calling 911 and the paramedic helped her with her call. He knew the correct procedures so that 911 dispatched help immediately after his explanation. He was really good with the woman. It appears she might have had a mini stroke. The EGR police arrived within a minute of 911 saying they were sending help. An ambulance was right behind them.
Today is free refill day so I got a small coffee and had it refilled twice. The DFP continues to report on the troubles Detroit is having with its ex mayor. Another interesting article was on the sale of the Pontiac Silverdome. Last year the city of Pontiac took bids on buying the Silverdome. The low bidders price was 20 million dollars. The City rejected the 20M bid. Recently the sale was rebid and the low bidders price was $550,000. The City accepted this bid. A court ruled yesterday that the $550K bid was OK. What a difference a year makes?
After a quick lunch I retired to my office. I called Hal Horlings to tell him that Nancy and I would be happy to go with Hal and Karen to the New Years Eve concert by the Symphony. Before the concert we will have dinner at the Chop House. It should be a fun evening.
I also downloaded photos from our recent trip to Lakewood. I emailed the photos to the family.
I am now catching up on some reading. The magazines I cannot read at home I will take with me. I checked the weather in Munich and it looks like rain nearly every day we are there. I also emailed the Hotel to ask the best way to get to the hotel from the airport.
It is now 4:38 and I am going on a 3 mile walk. Tonight I watch NCIS at 8 and then will head to bed. I am still reading about President Jackson. He is planning on moving all the southern Indians across the Mississippi. Jackson was not a nice guy.
Today is free refill day so I got a small coffee and had it refilled twice. The DFP continues to report on the troubles Detroit is having with its ex mayor. Another interesting article was on the sale of the Pontiac Silverdome. Last year the city of Pontiac took bids on buying the Silverdome. The low bidders price was 20 million dollars. The City rejected the 20M bid. Recently the sale was rebid and the low bidders price was $550,000. The City accepted this bid. A court ruled yesterday that the $550K bid was OK. What a difference a year makes?
After a quick lunch I retired to my office. I called Hal Horlings to tell him that Nancy and I would be happy to go with Hal and Karen to the New Years Eve concert by the Symphony. Before the concert we will have dinner at the Chop House. It should be a fun evening.
I also downloaded photos from our recent trip to Lakewood. I emailed the photos to the family.
I am now catching up on some reading. The magazines I cannot read at home I will take with me. I checked the weather in Munich and it looks like rain nearly every day we are there. I also emailed the Hotel to ask the best way to get to the hotel from the airport.
It is now 4:38 and I am going on a 3 mile walk. Tonight I watch NCIS at 8 and then will head to bed. I am still reading about President Jackson. He is planning on moving all the southern Indians across the Mississippi. Jackson was not a nice guy.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Monday November 23,2009
I did not wake up until 0700. My wake up time keeps getting later and later. We had another nice day in GR. It was sunny with temperatures in the 50s. This has been a very sunny November. I did not get to the Kava House until about 12 noon. The DFP and WSJ both had some very interesting articles. As I have mentioned before it takes about 90 minutes to read both papers.
After a quick lunch I have to head downtown for a 2:45 eye appointment. I complained to the Dr that I thought my contact was weak. I only wear one contact and that is in my right eye. The contact eye is for distance and the natural eye is for reading. I told the Dr that I had trouble reading street signs. He gave me a good exam. He said that I had developed some astigmatism since the last exam. He popped in a new contact and eureka I can see. It was amazing at the difference.
I stopped by the post office to have our mail stopped while we are away. I also called Debbie on my Onstar phone. The phone works great and it is hands free. I now have Nancy and Debbie programmed into the phone. Missy and Steve will soon follow. I finished the afternoon with a 3 mile walk.
Nancy and I watched "House". I really don't like the show but I always stay to the end because I want to see the final solution. I read a very interesting article on Larry Summers in "Vanity Fair". Vanity Fair usually has two interesting articles in each issue.
After a quick lunch I have to head downtown for a 2:45 eye appointment. I complained to the Dr that I thought my contact was weak. I only wear one contact and that is in my right eye. The contact eye is for distance and the natural eye is for reading. I told the Dr that I had trouble reading street signs. He gave me a good exam. He said that I had developed some astigmatism since the last exam. He popped in a new contact and eureka I can see. It was amazing at the difference.
I stopped by the post office to have our mail stopped while we are away. I also called Debbie on my Onstar phone. The phone works great and it is hands free. I now have Nancy and Debbie programmed into the phone. Missy and Steve will soon follow. I finished the afternoon with a 3 mile walk.
Nancy and I watched "House". I really don't like the show but I always stay to the end because I want to see the final solution. I read a very interesting article on Larry Summers in "Vanity Fair". Vanity Fair usually has two interesting articles in each issue.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Sunday November 22, 2009
The alarm goes off at 0646 and we get up and head for the MAC. Today both Nancy and I swam 1500 yards. After the MAC we made our Sunday trip to Meijers to get our weekly supplies. We did not get much this week because of our upcoming trip. Nancy again fixed her world famous poached eggs for breakfast.
I read several sections of the Sunday paper and then took my afternoon nap. Am I predictable or not?
This evening we had dinner at the Moleski's with the Nameys and Tim, 7 total. We had Polish sausage, Brussels sprouts, mixed vegetables and for dessert we did fruit slices dipped in chocolate. We did the dipping kinda like fondue. A good time was had by all.
On this date in 1963 President John F. Kennedy was shot. Nearly every one who was alive at the time can remember this date. I was stationed in South Vietnam at the time. I was a LTJG in the US Navy's Civil Engineering Corps. I learned of the shooting at 0400 while eating breakfast. In fact I remember I was told of the shooting by an army major named Kowak. It was a sad day for the USA.
I read several sections of the Sunday paper and then took my afternoon nap. Am I predictable or not?
This evening we had dinner at the Moleski's with the Nameys and Tim, 7 total. We had Polish sausage, Brussels sprouts, mixed vegetables and for dessert we did fruit slices dipped in chocolate. We did the dipping kinda like fondue. A good time was had by all.
On this date in 1963 President John F. Kennedy was shot. Nearly every one who was alive at the time can remember this date. I was stationed in South Vietnam at the time. I was a LTJG in the US Navy's Civil Engineering Corps. I learned of the shooting at 0400 while eating breakfast. In fact I remember I was told of the shooting by an army major named Kowak. It was a sad day for the USA.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Saturday November 21, 2009
I set the alarm for 0636 so I can get Nancy up in time for her class at the MAC. However, she was up way before the alarm goes off. As Nancy heads to exercise class I must decide where to eat my eggs and pancakes. I go to Bill's on Michigan Ave. After breakfast I attach the bike rack to the hitch and head to the Muskatawa Trail near Marne. Today I rode 25 miles. It is 12.5 miles from the trail head to Ravenna. I started out in a heavy fog but about 1 hour into the ride the sun burned off the fog. The temperature got to 62 degrees today.
I tried out my Onstar phone today and called Nancy to ask her if she wanted to go to Costco. She said yes so I hurried home. Costco was very crowded today. I had to buy some mouth wash and peanut butter. Last week at the Costco in Ohio I bought some Wigwam socks. They are great so I was going to buy another pair in GR. The GR store did not have any. After Costco we drove to Target so Nancy could return a purchase.
I watched part of the MI/OSU game today and then decided I needed a nap. Tonight Nancy fixed veggie burgers and sliced potatoes. The veggie burgers were 3.0 but the potatoes were 3.5. She also baked some cookies. Cookies are always great, 4.0. Nancy is printing out info on walking tours we can take on our visit to Zurich, Vienna and Munich. She looked online and found a good source. It is almost 9 and I will finish up this blog and then select some magazines to read on the plane. I got my 30 today, did you?
I tried out my Onstar phone today and called Nancy to ask her if she wanted to go to Costco. She said yes so I hurried home. Costco was very crowded today. I had to buy some mouth wash and peanut butter. Last week at the Costco in Ohio I bought some Wigwam socks. They are great so I was going to buy another pair in GR. The GR store did not have any. After Costco we drove to Target so Nancy could return a purchase.
I watched part of the MI/OSU game today and then decided I needed a nap. Tonight Nancy fixed veggie burgers and sliced potatoes. The veggie burgers were 3.0 but the potatoes were 3.5. She also baked some cookies. Cookies are always great, 4.0. Nancy is printing out info on walking tours we can take on our visit to Zurich, Vienna and Munich. She looked online and found a good source. It is almost 9 and I will finish up this blog and then select some magazines to read on the plane. I got my 30 today, did you?
Friday, November 20, 2009
Friday November 20, 2009
It was raining when I got up this morning. After my at-home routine I put on my rain pants and headed to the MAC. Lately' I have been whining about my sore knees. This morning I followed my normal routine and had no pain. I think that as long as I don't run more that 2 miles I will be OK. It had stopped raining when I left the MAC so I did not need the rain pants. I read both the DFP and WSJ. The papers did not have any good news. Just more gloom and doom. I think the country would get a big lift if the President got all the troops out of the Middle East right now. I got a late start today so I did not get home from the Kava House until 2 PM.
After a quick lunch I got in the C2 and headed to Robbins Lock Shop to get a key made for the C2. I also bought a key pouch that I attached a secret hiding place on the car. The rest of the afternoon I continue my effort to clean up my home office. I think I am making progress.
This evening Nancy and I are going to a OHNA TGIF. It starts at 6:30 so I will finish this blog before I leave.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Sunday and GG noted that it was cold but no snow. They drove to Oscoda in the afternoon. GG also noted he had some rheumatism in his hips. I had to look up rheumatism in the dictionary. I am happy to report GG knew how to spell rheumatism.
I am sad to report that this is great grandfather James Lee Sanborn last entry in his 1938 diary. On Monday November 21 he had a stroke. James Lee Sanborn died on Tuesday November 22.
James Lee Sanborn had a full productive life. On November 7th, he and great grandmother celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. GG was born on March 17, 1856 in Sanborn, New York. At age 17 his family moved to Ossineke to built a saw mill. Sanborn, New York was named after GG's father Lee R. Sanborn as was Sanborn Township, Michigan. Family lore has it that the family was related to Robert E. Lee's family.
GG married Loretta Roberts of East Shelby, New York on November 7, 1878. They were married in Earlville, IL where GGM had an aunt. GG operated the sawmill for 20 years before the timber ran out for such a large mill.
At the turn of the century, 1900, GG went into real estate as vice president and superintendent of the Alcona Stock Farms. They owned 2,000 acres of land which was acquired by the Lost Lake Wood Club. GG was active in community affairs. He founded and for may years was president of the Ossineke Chamber of Commerce. He also got the State of MI to plant trout in the Devil's River.
GG held every elected township office. He was chairman of the Alpena County Board of Supervisors. He was also on the Alpena County Road Commission. In 1906 GG was elected to the State House. He was reelected in 1908. My grandmother always said her father, James L Sanborn was a dreamer and eternal optimist. I regret that I was to young to get to know James Lee Sanborn. I have enjoyed reading and reporting about his last year of life.
After a quick lunch I got in the C2 and headed to Robbins Lock Shop to get a key made for the C2. I also bought a key pouch that I attached a secret hiding place on the car. The rest of the afternoon I continue my effort to clean up my home office. I think I am making progress.
This evening Nancy and I are going to a OHNA TGIF. It starts at 6:30 so I will finish this blog before I leave.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Sunday and GG noted that it was cold but no snow. They drove to Oscoda in the afternoon. GG also noted he had some rheumatism in his hips. I had to look up rheumatism in the dictionary. I am happy to report GG knew how to spell rheumatism.
I am sad to report that this is great grandfather James Lee Sanborn last entry in his 1938 diary. On Monday November 21 he had a stroke. James Lee Sanborn died on Tuesday November 22.
James Lee Sanborn had a full productive life. On November 7th, he and great grandmother celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. GG was born on March 17, 1856 in Sanborn, New York. At age 17 his family moved to Ossineke to built a saw mill. Sanborn, New York was named after GG's father Lee R. Sanborn as was Sanborn Township, Michigan. Family lore has it that the family was related to Robert E. Lee's family.
GG married Loretta Roberts of East Shelby, New York on November 7, 1878. They were married in Earlville, IL where GGM had an aunt. GG operated the sawmill for 20 years before the timber ran out for such a large mill.
At the turn of the century, 1900, GG went into real estate as vice president and superintendent of the Alcona Stock Farms. They owned 2,000 acres of land which was acquired by the Lost Lake Wood Club. GG was active in community affairs. He founded and for may years was president of the Ossineke Chamber of Commerce. He also got the State of MI to plant trout in the Devil's River.
GG held every elected township office. He was chairman of the Alpena County Board of Supervisors. He was also on the Alpena County Road Commission. In 1906 GG was elected to the State House. He was reelected in 1908. My grandmother always said her father, James L Sanborn was a dreamer and eternal optimist. I regret that I was to young to get to know James Lee Sanborn. I have enjoyed reading and reporting about his last year of life.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday November 19, 2009
My knees have been sore for several days now. This morning I went back to my old routine. I started by reducing my running. To compensate I increased my time on the rowing machine, Concept II. I also had to take my car in to get a paint sealer applied. So I drove to Berger Chevy, left my car off and walked to the MAC.
After the MAC routine I walked to Breton Village D&W and drank a Starbucks and read the DFP. The WSJ was not available at 1100. The Kindle said it would be delayed today. I have not checked to see if it is now available. After reading the DFP I walked home.
I spent most of the afternoon cleaning up my home office. I also had to call the credit card company to let them know we would be travelling out of the country. I was told if you do not do this your card will not work. It is an anti fraud measure. Nancy was told that because the dollar is so low compared to the Euro that some places will not accept credit cards.
The car was available at 3 PM and Nancy drove me to Berger. The C2 received it's first fill up today. I did not know how big the gas tank was so I had to read the manual. The gas tank has a 13 gallon capacity. It was easy reading the manual because the car is bare bones. I don't have features like heated seats, power windows or seats and climate control. I was amazed that the manual took up 20 pages on the proper use of seat belts. It looks like they are afraid of getting sued.
Nancy and I left home at 5:15 and headed to the "Bone Fish Grill" for dinner. We met the Horlings at the restaurant. We had a good time and the food was great. I was surprised that the place was jammed.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was a cool Saturday. GG finished clearing the Robinson property. They had cut 40 logs, 6 cords of pole wood and 57 loads of brush. I think GG was getting this property ready for sale.
After the MAC routine I walked to Breton Village D&W and drank a Starbucks and read the DFP. The WSJ was not available at 1100. The Kindle said it would be delayed today. I have not checked to see if it is now available. After reading the DFP I walked home.
I spent most of the afternoon cleaning up my home office. I also had to call the credit card company to let them know we would be travelling out of the country. I was told if you do not do this your card will not work. It is an anti fraud measure. Nancy was told that because the dollar is so low compared to the Euro that some places will not accept credit cards.
The car was available at 3 PM and Nancy drove me to Berger. The C2 received it's first fill up today. I did not know how big the gas tank was so I had to read the manual. The gas tank has a 13 gallon capacity. It was easy reading the manual because the car is bare bones. I don't have features like heated seats, power windows or seats and climate control. I was amazed that the manual took up 20 pages on the proper use of seat belts. It looks like they are afraid of getting sued.
Nancy and I left home at 5:15 and headed to the "Bone Fish Grill" for dinner. We met the Horlings at the restaurant. We had a good time and the food was great. I was surprised that the place was jammed.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was a cool Saturday. GG finished clearing the Robinson property. They had cut 40 logs, 6 cords of pole wood and 57 loads of brush. I think GG was getting this property ready for sale.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Wednesday November 18, 2009
Wednesday morning and the alarm goes off at 0545. Today is breakfast club and it starts at 0700. Today I get in the C2, first time, and head downtown to the Women's City Club. The speaker today was from the GR Public Museum and he talked about the development of telescopes for star gazing. It was interesting.
After the meeting I head to Berger to get them to get the Onstar working right on the C2. It took a while with several calls to India but we finally got it working. I get Onstar free for the next 10 months. After Berger I decide to take a bike ride. I attached my new rack to the hitch and load up the bike. I head to Riverside Park where I will start my ride to Rockford. It was a 23 mile ride and it took me exactly 2 hours. It started to rain as I pulled into the driveway. I took a shower and then a short nap. It is now 5 PM. Before dinner I hope to finish this blog and clean up my desk. Tonight I will watch some TV and then read some more about President Jackson.
I watched MSNBC while eating lunch and saw that they had reporters in GR. They were interviewing all the folks waiting for Sarah Palan. Over 1000 people stood in line all night. I would never stand in line for any politician.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It rained in the morning, Friday, not heavy. GG continued to haul brush, 19 loads, in the afternoon. He noted that it was clearing and colder in the afternoon with no wind.
After the meeting I head to Berger to get them to get the Onstar working right on the C2. It took a while with several calls to India but we finally got it working. I get Onstar free for the next 10 months. After Berger I decide to take a bike ride. I attached my new rack to the hitch and load up the bike. I head to Riverside Park where I will start my ride to Rockford. It was a 23 mile ride and it took me exactly 2 hours. It started to rain as I pulled into the driveway. I took a shower and then a short nap. It is now 5 PM. Before dinner I hope to finish this blog and clean up my desk. Tonight I will watch some TV and then read some more about President Jackson.
I watched MSNBC while eating lunch and saw that they had reporters in GR. They were interviewing all the folks waiting for Sarah Palan. Over 1000 people stood in line all night. I would never stand in line for any politician.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It rained in the morning, Friday, not heavy. GG continued to haul brush, 19 loads, in the afternoon. He noted that it was clearing and colder in the afternoon with no wind.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Tuesday November 17, 2009
The weather man said we are going to have another nice sunny morning. He was right but it was windy. Today I ran to the MAC, 4K. My running times are not improving. I averaged about 11'14" per mile. This is pretty slow even for an old guy. On my run home I noticed that the yard waste people were behind schedule. I still had time to rake the rest of the leaves in the planter strip. When I got home the planter strip was bare. The wind had blown all the leaves next door. Some days we are lucky.
At the Kava House I read the DFP and WSJ. There was not anything that I thought of interest in either newspaper. Are they newspapers if I am reading them on my Kindle? It takes about 90 minutes to read both papers.
After a quick lunch I head out to Meijers to purchase some supplies. On my way home I stopped at the Kent County Employees CU to get some money for our upcoming trip. I took a 1.5 mile walk when I got home.
It is now 5 PM and I want to get the blog done so I can watch NCIS tonight. I also have a lot of mail to read and papers to sort. Tomorrow it is suppose to rain so I will have an excuse to stay inside. I will go to bed early because tomorrow I have a 0700 breakfast club meeting.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. GG entries are getting shorter. He wrote that he worked in the post office in the afternoon. They hauled 11 loads of brush.
At the Kava House I read the DFP and WSJ. There was not anything that I thought of interest in either newspaper. Are they newspapers if I am reading them on my Kindle? It takes about 90 minutes to read both papers.
After a quick lunch I head out to Meijers to purchase some supplies. On my way home I stopped at the Kent County Employees CU to get some money for our upcoming trip. I took a 1.5 mile walk when I got home.
It is now 5 PM and I want to get the blog done so I can watch NCIS tonight. I also have a lot of mail to read and papers to sort. Tomorrow it is suppose to rain so I will have an excuse to stay inside. I will go to bed early because tomorrow I have a 0700 breakfast club meeting.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. GG entries are getting shorter. He wrote that he worked in the post office in the afternoon. They hauled 11 loads of brush.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Monday November 16, 2009
It is back to normal after our trip to Ohio to visit Melissa and Akerke. The weather for November has never been better. Most Novembers we have tracking snow for the first week of deer season. The weather report tonight predicted no heavy frost for the next week. This morning's routine was like every other Monday.
After lunch I got in the C2 and headed to "Hitches by George". I got a rear hitch installed. The hitch will carry a super duper bike rack. It took 45 minutes to install the hitch. I read the WSJ on my Kindle while waiting. I purchased the super duper bike rack from Grand Rapids Bike Company. The rack is manufactured by Thule. These are the same people that have a kayak rack for the C2. I will purchase the kayak rack in January.
Nancy and I delivered OHNA newsletter to all the neighbors in our block. There are 21 houses in our block. After we completed the delivery I took a 3 mile walk.
This evening we watched the news and at 8 we watched "House". I really don't like "House" but tonight I watched the whole show. Today we got our Eurorail passes for our trip to Munich. The schedules to the cities we want to visit all look good. We leave in the morning arrive at noon and come home about 6. The longest trip is to Vienna and that is only 4 hours. Heck it is 5 hours to Cleveland. I will look up our hotel on goggle earth. I love my computer.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Wednesday and GG only noted that they continued to haul brush.
After lunch I got in the C2 and headed to "Hitches by George". I got a rear hitch installed. The hitch will carry a super duper bike rack. It took 45 minutes to install the hitch. I read the WSJ on my Kindle while waiting. I purchased the super duper bike rack from Grand Rapids Bike Company. The rack is manufactured by Thule. These are the same people that have a kayak rack for the C2. I will purchase the kayak rack in January.
Nancy and I delivered OHNA newsletter to all the neighbors in our block. There are 21 houses in our block. After we completed the delivery I took a 3 mile walk.
This evening we watched the news and at 8 we watched "House". I really don't like "House" but tonight I watched the whole show. Today we got our Eurorail passes for our trip to Munich. The schedules to the cities we want to visit all look good. We leave in the morning arrive at noon and come home about 6. The longest trip is to Vienna and that is only 4 hours. Heck it is 5 hours to Cleveland. I will look up our hotel on goggle earth. I love my computer.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Wednesday and GG only noted that they continued to haul brush.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Thursday-Sunday November 12-15, 2009
Thursday morning and Nancy and Bob get up early because we have a busy day. After a brief workout at home I head downtown to city hall and a 0900 GRBA meeting. Nancy heads to the MAC for several classes. At 1030 we finish loading up the Taurus and start out for Lakewood, Ohio. It is about 290 miles to Lakewood but it is a beautiful and driving the Taurus is a breeze. Nancy and I both observed a large number of trucks on the interstate. Does this mean the economy is improving? We are in a hurry to get to Ohio so I even bypass Cabella's. Another observation was that every farmer was busy getting his corn combined. We called Missy as we neared Lakewood and asked if she wanted Costco's chicken pot pie for dinner. She said yes so we stopped at the Costco in Avon Lake, Ohio.
We were greeted by Missy, Akerke and of course Ms P when we arrived. They were all playing outside in the leaves. The health of all the girls seems to be improving. After dinner and a short time talking and playing with all the girls, Nancy and I head for bed. It was a long day.
Friday was another sunny, warm day. The temperature reached 66 degrees. I headed out early with my Kindle in my backpack to find a coffee shop. I was lucky and found a brand new bakery/coffee shop. The store was a short 45 minute walk. When I got back to Missy's house they had just finished eating. We loaded up Akerke into the stroller and I took her on a long walk. I think we were gone about 90 minutes. Akerke fell asleep about 30 minutes into the walk. For lunch we headed to Costco for hot dogs.
Missy wanted me to fix her leaking bathtub drain. I took it apart and found that all it needed was a new O ring. Missy directed me to several local hardware stores. I found an O ring at the second store. It cost $1.10. The O ring was inserted and yes folks it worked. I was so proud of my handy work that I took a nap. For dinner Nancy fixed a barley/beef soup with multi grain bread. Missy has HBO so we watched "Curb your Enthusiasm". It was very funny.
Saturday morning and we load up the car and head for the West Side Market. Missy had a back pack for carrying Akerke. I got the job of carrying the back pack. It really is quite comfortable. Our first stop is to buy some apple fritters. The Market has some of the world's best apple fritters. We spent about 45 minutes walking around the market. The market is very ethnic and the many food stalls offer all kinds of meat, fruits and vegetables. I got another apple fritter.
Missy had scheduled a play date for Akerke with several of her friends. After we dropped off Missy and Akerke, Nancy and I headed to Trader Joe's. We purchased some wine, cheese and soup. We also stopped at another store and bought a round of Swiss cheese. I fixed the brake on Missy's jogging stroller and when she got home I took Akerke on a short walk. It was very warm so she fell asleep after 10 minutes. We walked for 55 minutes. I again took a short nap. We had pizza for dinner and I watched some football in the evening.
Sunday and today Nancy and I are heading for Grand Rapids. On our way home we stopped at Ikea and then the discount mall outside of Howell. We got home about 4. Dinner tonight was some Trader Joe soup. It was good. We watched "60 minutes" and then headed upstairs. Nancy is reading a book and I am completing this blog.
Ossineke, MI November 12-15, 1938. Saturday Nov 12 and GG worked in the post office in the morning. He had 4 loads of sheep manure delivered in the afternoon.
Sunday Nov 13, Church at 1130 with 8 folks in attendance.
Monday Nov 14, Jim Courtright coming and clearing brush for Robinson. They got 10 loads of manure. GG went to Alpena in the morning.
Tuesday Nov 15, 1938. Of course GG noted that it was the first day of deer season. GG moved stove for Robinson and shut up chickens. 26 total loads of manure were delivered.
We were greeted by Missy, Akerke and of course Ms P when we arrived. They were all playing outside in the leaves. The health of all the girls seems to be improving. After dinner and a short time talking and playing with all the girls, Nancy and I head for bed. It was a long day.
Friday was another sunny, warm day. The temperature reached 66 degrees. I headed out early with my Kindle in my backpack to find a coffee shop. I was lucky and found a brand new bakery/coffee shop. The store was a short 45 minute walk. When I got back to Missy's house they had just finished eating. We loaded up Akerke into the stroller and I took her on a long walk. I think we were gone about 90 minutes. Akerke fell asleep about 30 minutes into the walk. For lunch we headed to Costco for hot dogs.
Missy wanted me to fix her leaking bathtub drain. I took it apart and found that all it needed was a new O ring. Missy directed me to several local hardware stores. I found an O ring at the second store. It cost $1.10. The O ring was inserted and yes folks it worked. I was so proud of my handy work that I took a nap. For dinner Nancy fixed a barley/beef soup with multi grain bread. Missy has HBO so we watched "Curb your Enthusiasm". It was very funny.
Saturday morning and we load up the car and head for the West Side Market. Missy had a back pack for carrying Akerke. I got the job of carrying the back pack. It really is quite comfortable. Our first stop is to buy some apple fritters. The Market has some of the world's best apple fritters. We spent about 45 minutes walking around the market. The market is very ethnic and the many food stalls offer all kinds of meat, fruits and vegetables. I got another apple fritter.
Missy had scheduled a play date for Akerke with several of her friends. After we dropped off Missy and Akerke, Nancy and I headed to Trader Joe's. We purchased some wine, cheese and soup. We also stopped at another store and bought a round of Swiss cheese. I fixed the brake on Missy's jogging stroller and when she got home I took Akerke on a short walk. It was very warm so she fell asleep after 10 minutes. We walked for 55 minutes. I again took a short nap. We had pizza for dinner and I watched some football in the evening.
Sunday and today Nancy and I are heading for Grand Rapids. On our way home we stopped at Ikea and then the discount mall outside of Howell. We got home about 4. Dinner tonight was some Trader Joe soup. It was good. We watched "60 minutes" and then headed upstairs. Nancy is reading a book and I am completing this blog.
Ossineke, MI November 12-15, 1938. Saturday Nov 12 and GG worked in the post office in the morning. He had 4 loads of sheep manure delivered in the afternoon.
Sunday Nov 13, Church at 1130 with 8 folks in attendance.
Monday Nov 14, Jim Courtright coming and clearing brush for Robinson. They got 10 loads of manure. GG went to Alpena in the morning.
Tuesday Nov 15, 1938. Of course GG noted that it was the first day of deer season. GG moved stove for Robinson and shut up chickens. 26 total loads of manure were delivered.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wednesday November 11, 2009
Happy Veteran's Day. Vets might be getting old but I bet any Vet you ask can tell you their service number, 652654 USNR. Today was another nice day. Being Wednesday I had to determine what to do, go kayaking or biking. Of course I could do neither because I have not yet purchased racks for the Cobalt. Instead I went on a 4.5 mile run. It took me 51 minutes to cover this distance. I hope with more practise my time will come down.
I had breakfast at Marie Catrib's. I had a bowl of oatmeal with toast. The food was average but I like the place because it is very bright. The Kava House is very dark and this make reading kind of a strain.
This afternoon I got in the Cobalt and headed to "Hitches By George". I am going to buy a bike rack from these folks. They had to order the rack and it will be installed next week. When I got home, I noticed that we had a lot of cardboard boxes in the garage. I got out my trusty jack knife and cut the boxes down for easy transport. I took all the cardboard to the recycle center.
Since I haven't figured out how to haul my kayak with the Cobalt, I put the kayak up on its rack. I hope to have a kayak car rack by next spring. The garage was very dirty so I swept it out. When I was working I never cleaned the garage. I have too much time on my hands.
Tonight is Nancy's book club so I met Tom M for dinner at Pietro's. I had spaghetti and beer. I have just completed packing for our upcoming trip to Missy's. I also downloaded several books to my Kindle. I will have to set the alarm because tomorrow morning I have a Grand Rapids Building Authority Meeting.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Friday and GG worked part time in the post office. He also received 4 loads of sheep manure for the garden.
I had breakfast at Marie Catrib's. I had a bowl of oatmeal with toast. The food was average but I like the place because it is very bright. The Kava House is very dark and this make reading kind of a strain.
This afternoon I got in the Cobalt and headed to "Hitches By George". I am going to buy a bike rack from these folks. They had to order the rack and it will be installed next week. When I got home, I noticed that we had a lot of cardboard boxes in the garage. I got out my trusty jack knife and cut the boxes down for easy transport. I took all the cardboard to the recycle center.
Since I haven't figured out how to haul my kayak with the Cobalt, I put the kayak up on its rack. I hope to have a kayak car rack by next spring. The garage was very dirty so I swept it out. When I was working I never cleaned the garage. I have too much time on my hands.
Tonight is Nancy's book club so I met Tom M for dinner at Pietro's. I had spaghetti and beer. I have just completed packing for our upcoming trip to Missy's. I also downloaded several books to my Kindle. I will have to set the alarm because tomorrow morning I have a Grand Rapids Building Authority Meeting.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Friday and GG worked part time in the post office. He also received 4 loads of sheep manure for the garden.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Tuesday November 10, 2009
It is still warm. The temperature at 0700 was 57. This morning I ran to the MAC and I still can not get my per mile time below 11 minutes. When I got home the yard waste people had not picked up our bagged leaves. I grabbed a rake and filled two more bags.
The DFP had an article about the number of Detroit Council members who carry a concealed weapon. I think at least 5 members carry weapons to the meetings. I was also surprised to learn that council members have full time security guards. They guard the members from the time they leave their home until they retire for the evening. Detroit is the only city of its size that offers this service. Last year Council member Conyers had a guard accompany her on trips to San Francisco and several other cities.
After lunch I got in the Cobalt and headed to Alto to meet with Jennifer D. We discussed a project she is working on. She had most of her problems already thought out and just wanted to bounce her ideas off a fresh face. I enjoy thinking about problems that develop when working on a design project.
'Tonight is a good TV night so I am finishing this blog before dinner. I will also continue reading the GRP. The GRP had an article on all the layoffs proposed for GR. I was surprised that the engineering department was spared.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Thursday and GG worked part time in the post office. He also placed four loads of sheep manure. GG noted that Justin and family got home in time to vote.
The DFP had an article about the number of Detroit Council members who carry a concealed weapon. I think at least 5 members carry weapons to the meetings. I was also surprised to learn that council members have full time security guards. They guard the members from the time they leave their home until they retire for the evening. Detroit is the only city of its size that offers this service. Last year Council member Conyers had a guard accompany her on trips to San Francisco and several other cities.
After lunch I got in the Cobalt and headed to Alto to meet with Jennifer D. We discussed a project she is working on. She had most of her problems already thought out and just wanted to bounce her ideas off a fresh face. I enjoy thinking about problems that develop when working on a design project.
'Tonight is a good TV night so I am finishing this blog before dinner. I will also continue reading the GRP. The GRP had an article on all the layoffs proposed for GR. I was surprised that the engineering department was spared.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Thursday and GG worked part time in the post office. He also placed four loads of sheep manure. GG noted that Justin and family got home in time to vote.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Monday November 9, 2009
Monday morning and the temperature at 0630 was in the high 50s. This is record warmth for this time of year. I did not know how to dress for my bike ride to the MAC. I was conservative and dressed in layers. Nearly all the trees are now bare. Folks must have been busy raking over the weekend because the streets were lined with leaf bags.
The DFP was void of any local news this morning. In fact today's GRP was also very small with few stories written by local reporters. The WSJ did have a lot of good articles.
After lunch I took Nancy's car to the Ford dealer to get the oil changed. Because it was the first time they did not charge us. I stopped by the Chevy dealer to look at a Cobalt. The dealer had a used 2010 Cobalt at a reduced price. I bought the car.
Missy called Nancy today and told her about the trials and tribulations of Ms P and Akerke. We are planning on a visit soon. We wish Missy and all her girls good luck.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Wednesday and GG only commented on his working part time in the post office.
The DFP was void of any local news this morning. In fact today's GRP was also very small with few stories written by local reporters. The WSJ did have a lot of good articles.
After lunch I took Nancy's car to the Ford dealer to get the oil changed. Because it was the first time they did not charge us. I stopped by the Chevy dealer to look at a Cobalt. The dealer had a used 2010 Cobalt at a reduced price. I bought the car.
Missy called Nancy today and told her about the trials and tribulations of Ms P and Akerke. We are planning on a visit soon. We wish Missy and all her girls good luck.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Wednesday and GG only commented on his working part time in the post office.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Sunday November 8, 2009
Today is post #516. I never thought I would keep this up. Today being Sunday I set the alarm for 0656. Both Nancy and I swam 1500 yards. Gas at Meijers was $2.66 per gallon. I topped off the Taurus's tank. The morning news shows were all about the US House passing the health bill. It will be interesting to see what the US Senate does? Nancy fixed her world famous poached eggs this morning.
After reading a few sections of the GRP I headed upstairs for my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap Nancy and I raked the leaves in the back yard. The temperature was 38 at 0700 and 66 at 4 PM. It was a beautiful day. I did try using my blower for moving the leaves around. I think a rake is faster. After raking I took at 3.25 mile walk.
This evening I will watch 60 minutes and then head for bed to read more about Andrew Jackson. He had a colorful life. I hope to download several books into the Kindle for our upcoming trip. Does anyone have a favorite fiction book I should read? I like Westerns, spy, detective, and adventure books.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. Last night's rain was over 1/2". Justis and party left for home at 0400. Reads party left at 0600. Hazel, GGM, went to Detroit with Mrs. Broutin. Election today and GG voted. He worked part time in post office in afternoon.
After reading a few sections of the GRP I headed upstairs for my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap Nancy and I raked the leaves in the back yard. The temperature was 38 at 0700 and 66 at 4 PM. It was a beautiful day. I did try using my blower for moving the leaves around. I think a rake is faster. After raking I took at 3.25 mile walk.
This evening I will watch 60 minutes and then head for bed to read more about Andrew Jackson. He had a colorful life. I hope to download several books into the Kindle for our upcoming trip. Does anyone have a favorite fiction book I should read? I like Westerns, spy, detective, and adventure books.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. Last night's rain was over 1/2". Justis and party left for home at 0400. Reads party left at 0600. Hazel, GGM, went to Detroit with Mrs. Broutin. Election today and GG voted. He worked part time in post office in afternoon.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Saturday November 7, 2009
Saturday and the weatherman said it is going to be warm and sunny but very windy. The wind means I am not going kayaking. I have to drive Nancy and Mary Namyy at 1230 to Meijer Gardens so they can work at a sale. So I decide to go for a run. I ran 4.5 miles. For breakfast I biked to the Kava House and indulged in a cinnamon roll and glazed scone. As I was feasting on all this sugar when who should walk in but Nancy. I told her that I purchased the scone for her. She grinned but did eat 1/2 of it. Both the DFP and WSJ were loaded with articles about the shootings at Ft Hood and in FL. The shooter in FL was a civil engineer.
When I got home I started raking leaves. At 1215 I drove Nancy and Mary to the Gardens. After dropping them off I drove the Meier's Thrifty Acres and purchased bird seed and a snow shovel. Every winter I purchase a cheap plastic shovel. It is lightweight and last for 1 winter only. When I got home I continued raking. I did watch about 5 minutes of the UM game and saw how poorly they were coached and turned the TV off. I did take a 30 minutes nap.
It is now 4:30 PM and I am waiting for Nancy, Mary and Ed to show up. Ed agreed to pick up the girls after the sale. We are having wine and cheese at our house and then going out to eat.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Monday and the entire family had breakfast at the Bingham's in Alpena. Remember me telling you that Jay Bingham was mayor of Alpena. The mayor's wife was dad's aunt. GG wrote they called on Rob Scott, the baby (that is me folks). GG drove back to Domkes and Hadens in the PM. The Robert's party left for home in NY state.
When I got home I started raking leaves. At 1215 I drove Nancy and Mary to the Gardens. After dropping them off I drove the Meier's Thrifty Acres and purchased bird seed and a snow shovel. Every winter I purchase a cheap plastic shovel. It is lightweight and last for 1 winter only. When I got home I continued raking. I did watch about 5 minutes of the UM game and saw how poorly they were coached and turned the TV off. I did take a 30 minutes nap.
It is now 4:30 PM and I am waiting for Nancy, Mary and Ed to show up. Ed agreed to pick up the girls after the sale. We are having wine and cheese at our house and then going out to eat.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was Monday and the entire family had breakfast at the Bingham's in Alpena. Remember me telling you that Jay Bingham was mayor of Alpena. The mayor's wife was dad's aunt. GG wrote they called on Rob Scott, the baby (that is me folks). GG drove back to Domkes and Hadens in the PM. The Robert's party left for home in NY state.
Friday November 6, 2009
Today I ran to the MAC and back with no problems. I am disappointed with my time per mile, 11 minutes. As usual I read the DFP and WSJ. I really like the WSJ and I understand that it now has more readers than USA Today.
After lunch I raked some leaves and then took a short nap. Nancy and I depart at 5 for the Moleski's for dinner and then to the Symphony. We had lamb burgers and a great fruit/ice cream dessert. We attended a lecture about the concert at 7 and I liked the idea of having the music we are about to hear explained. The concert was good. Nancy really liked the concert especially the violin soloist. After the concert we returned to the Moleski's for an after dinner drink. We got home about 11:30 so I am writing this blog on Saturday.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was a mild Sunday. The family all met at the Scott's (my grandparents) for dinner and then they had supper at Aunt Julia's in Ossineke. The day of the celebration is set for November 7. Nov 7 is tomorrow.
After lunch I raked some leaves and then took a short nap. Nancy and I depart at 5 for the Moleski's for dinner and then to the Symphony. We had lamb burgers and a great fruit/ice cream dessert. We attended a lecture about the concert at 7 and I liked the idea of having the music we are about to hear explained. The concert was good. Nancy really liked the concert especially the violin soloist. After the concert we returned to the Moleski's for an after dinner drink. We got home about 11:30 so I am writing this blog on Saturday.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was a mild Sunday. The family all met at the Scott's (my grandparents) for dinner and then they had supper at Aunt Julia's in Ossineke. The day of the celebration is set for November 7. Nov 7 is tomorrow.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Thursday November 5, 2009
I think I should admit it my natural wake up time is now 0645. Of course I go to bed later, 1015. Today I wore my sunglasses on my bike ride to the MAC. It was sprinkling when I left and I had to wipe off my bike seat and helmet. Lately, I think the weather people have been in a funk. They have predicted the wrong weather for about a week. Must be global warming.
The DFP had several articles on the plans of the newly elected local officials. It is also surprising that in these tough economic times that not one school millage renewal proposal in MI was defeated. It shows folks value education. I voted on Tuesday and was correct on all voting items. I usually am lucky to get 50%.
This afternoon I spent some time looking at companies that are involved in natural gas drilling, pipelines and power generation. I think that peoples are coming to their senses about the US using local energy supplies instead of importing energy. I like using google as research tool. Speaking of google they have a new navigation system that is available on Verizon's new Motorola cell phone. In fact when it was announced that goggle had the navigation system the value of Garmen's stock declined. Competition makes the world go round. After playing on the computer I took a 1.5 mile walk.
This evening Nancy and I went to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. We got home in time to watch the news and were shocked to hear about the killings at Ft Hood. Nancy watched Bones and I came upstairs to write this blog.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was a mild Saturday. GG entry is very hard to read but it looks like they are getting ready for the 60th anniversary of ?? They had visitors from NY and Southern MI. I wish I could make out the entry better. I did use a magnifying glass.
The DFP had several articles on the plans of the newly elected local officials. It is also surprising that in these tough economic times that not one school millage renewal proposal in MI was defeated. It shows folks value education. I voted on Tuesday and was correct on all voting items. I usually am lucky to get 50%.
This afternoon I spent some time looking at companies that are involved in natural gas drilling, pipelines and power generation. I think that peoples are coming to their senses about the US using local energy supplies instead of importing energy. I like using google as research tool. Speaking of google they have a new navigation system that is available on Verizon's new Motorola cell phone. In fact when it was announced that goggle had the navigation system the value of Garmen's stock declined. Competition makes the world go round. After playing on the computer I took a 1.5 mile walk.
This evening Nancy and I went to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. We got home in time to watch the news and were shocked to hear about the killings at Ft Hood. Nancy watched Bones and I came upstairs to write this blog.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. It was a mild Saturday. GG entry is very hard to read but it looks like they are getting ready for the 60th anniversary of ?? They had visitors from NY and Southern MI. I wish I could make out the entry better. I did use a magnifying glass.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Wednesday November 4, 2009
Breakfast Club today so last night I set the alarm for 0535. I had to introduce the speaker at today's meeting. The speaker was a stockbroker who talked about the economy and recommended that now is the time to buy stocks. Anyway the breakfast food was good.
After BC I stopped by the Kava House and read the DFP and WSJ. The DFP went to press before the polls closed but they wrote several articles based on preliminary poll results. They were correct in all races. There really were no surprises in yesterday's elections.
I have been mulling over if I should buy some stock in a company that might benefit from the increased supply of natural gas. Today I bought some Cummins Engine stock. I agree with T. Boone Pickens that natural gas is the best fuel source for the nation's trucks. Time will tell.
Today Nancy has to work at Meijer's Gardens. After work, 4 PM, she wants to go to a paper products, Gallery 19, warehouse sale. So I drove her to the Gardens and then went on a 3 mile walk. After the walk I picked up Nancy and we drove to the sale. The sale started at 5 and by 4:30 the line was around the block. Nancy made her purchases and was out of the building in 45 minutes. She promised to buy dinner if I drove her so we ate at Olga's Kitchen in Gaslight Village.
Not much on TV so I will finish this blog and continue reading my book on President Jackson. He was really an interesting character.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. GG wrote that they still had summer weather. In the morning he cleared brush from flower garden. In the afternoon 1 load of sheep manure was delivered for the flower bed.
After BC I stopped by the Kava House and read the DFP and WSJ. The DFP went to press before the polls closed but they wrote several articles based on preliminary poll results. They were correct in all races. There really were no surprises in yesterday's elections.
I have been mulling over if I should buy some stock in a company that might benefit from the increased supply of natural gas. Today I bought some Cummins Engine stock. I agree with T. Boone Pickens that natural gas is the best fuel source for the nation's trucks. Time will tell.
Today Nancy has to work at Meijer's Gardens. After work, 4 PM, she wants to go to a paper products, Gallery 19, warehouse sale. So I drove her to the Gardens and then went on a 3 mile walk. After the walk I picked up Nancy and we drove to the sale. The sale started at 5 and by 4:30 the line was around the block. Nancy made her purchases and was out of the building in 45 minutes. She promised to buy dinner if I drove her so we ate at Olga's Kitchen in Gaslight Village.
Not much on TV so I will finish this blog and continue reading my book on President Jackson. He was really an interesting character.
Ossineke, MI this date in 1938. GG wrote that they still had summer weather. In the morning he cleared brush from flower garden. In the afternoon 1 load of sheep manure was delivered for the flower bed.
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