Tuesday December 18, 2012

I got started early today because I have a 0845 Doctor's appointment. I hustled through my at-home routine. I took and quick shower and then got in the C2 and headed to Dr Mary's office on Michigan Street. I got my stitches out and it took about 4 minutes. After the Doctor I stopped at the bank to get some money for our trip to CA tomorrow. I then headed to the MAC. Today I did the tri and my swim time for 1,000 yards was 31'. I have to be home early today so I did not go to the Kava House. I had my coffee at Breton Village. The mall was crowded because the Christmas train display is up and running. A lot of grandparents bringing their grand kids to see the trains. It is really a great display. I got home about 1230 and Nancy was already home. I think Ms P knew that she was leaving. Kim stopped by about 1400 and Ms P and Kim headed out. I spent some time playing with Nancy's new phone. I cannot get the email to work on the phone. My new iphone is working fine. It is a great piece of technology. I also finished packing this afternoon. I needed to get my 30 in so I took a 2.5 mile walk. Tonight we will watch the NCIS shows and then head to bed. The taxi is stopping by at 0415. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Monday December 17, 2012

Like clockwork Ms P and I are up at exactly 0500. As I was getting ready to pedal to the MAC I noticed that Ms P was moping around. I think I determined what her problem was. She saw our suitcases were out and we were starting to pack. She figured out that we were leaving. I think maybe this might have triggered her seizure yesterday. It is another very mild day with temperatures in the 40s. After the MAC I pedaled home and got in the C2 and headed to Greenville. I turned in our two ATT phones and Carol gave me a new phone for Nancy. I already have a new iphone. Of course I spent a hour talking to Carol and Donni. I wonder if I am getting like most retired guys who wastes working folks time by talking up at storm? I hope not. However, I always like talking shop with working engineers like Carol. I find out what is going on. Gossip is good. When I got home I walked Ms P around the block and then headed upstairs to continue packing. I am almost done. I also talked to Chris Hoekema about having her sons shoveling our walk whine we are gone. Tonight we will have a light dinner and then watch some TV before upstairs. I got my 30 in today did you? 50 years ago about this time I was leaving Midway Island and heading to Alpena, Mi for the holidays. I was one happy Navy guy.

Sunday December 16, 2012

It was 0500 again for Ms P and me. It was very mild when we went outside, 48⁰. It was colder in San Jose, CA this morning. We headed to the MAC for our Sunday swim. We both swam 1,000 yards. Since we will be going to CA later in the week we did not have to go to Meijer's today. Nancy fixed her world famous poached eggs for breakfast. I also took my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap I took at 2.5 mile walk. It was dark and gloomy. However, a lot of folks were out walking. When I got home I was watching the Lions game on TV when Ms P had a seizure. It lasted about 10 minutes. She was having such a normal day I wonder what triggered the seizure. Both Nancy and I have started to pack. We are only checking one bag so we have to be creative. Tonight we will watch 60 minutes and read the GRP. I hope to be in bed early because tomorrow is a busy day. At least it is busy for a retired guy.

Saturday December 15, 2012

It was a 0500 morning for Ms P and I. I got up for good at 0730. I headed to Bill's at 0810 and it was still dark outside. No wonder folks get depressed this time of year. I gave in and had pancakes at Bill's. They were good and Bill's is good about letting us use as much syrup as we want. After breakfast I rode my bike around Reeds Lake. The total mileage this morning was 12. Rain is suppose to start around noon so my Reeds Lake ride is my exercise for today. I spent most of the afternoon getting my iphone up and running. I can now facetime with my Sister, Debbie and Steve's family. I also tried texting and it seem to work ok. I might even establish a twitter account. The Siri option on the phone also works fine. I now have the ultimate toy. This evening Nancy and I are meeting the Namey's at Sundance Grill for dinner. We will have dessert at our house after dinner.

Friday December 14, 2012

TGIF: Even though I am retired I still like Fridays when they roll around. Today is no exception. After the morning routine I rode my bike with the steel stud tires to the MAC. The steel studs are great in ice and snow but they seem to be harder to pedal. They are also noisy. After the MAC I headed to the Kava House. Since Kim was cleaning the house I was in no hurry to get home. I read the WSJ and DFP from cover to cover. The only thing of interest was the continuing trial of Detroit's ex-mayor and his contractor buddy. They were using the City as their personal piggy bank. I spent my entire career in public infrastructure construction and I have never encountered corruption, especially on the scale it was done in Detroit. I did not get home until 1330. I asked Kim how Ms P did at the kennel and she said that Ms P did fine. That was good news to hear. After a quick lunch I drove Nancy to Costco. Gas at Costco was $3.11 a gallon. We were buying a dessert for Saturday night. We are having the Namey's over after dinner. Nancy and I are getting new cell phones. We are both moving to the SCECO company plan with Sprint. Nancy bought me a new iphone 5 so after Costco I headed to the Sprint store to pick it up. At 1800 we met the Horlings at the Twisted Roster for dinner. After dinner we saw the movie "Lincoln". We all thought it was a great movie. We did not get home until almost 2300.

Thursday December 13, 2012

Finally, Ms P and I slept in until 0500 this morning. It was very mild when we walked outside. It looks like a nice day ahead. For the first time in a week I did pushups, pull ups and rowed with no damage to the stitches. I also went swimming for the first time in a week. I spent some time at the Kava House reading the WSJ and DFP. The Michigan right-to-work law is still making headlines. I did not get home until 1330. Nancy had a lunch today with a friend. After I had a quick lunch Ms P and I got in the C2 and headed to Meijer's. I bought a gift card. My old firm is having an adopt a family drive. I stopped by the office and dropped off the card. Of course I stayed and talked to Ryan and Robert. I stopped by home to drop Ms P off and then headed to the bike shop. I had snow tires put on the bike. Of course it is not expected to snow in the next week. Nancy's foot is bothering her tonight so she went to bed early. She is putting the heating pad on the foot. I hope it works. Tonight I will watch the news and then "Person of Interest". We also got a paper edition of the GRP so I will spent some time reading it. The GRP is not the same since it went to the three day a week delivery. Most of the material is fluff or taken off a wire service. I am glad I have my Kindle. I got my 30 in today did you?

Wednesday December 12, 2012

It seems Ms P and I are hung up on 0400. We both need to go outside. I had to get up early, 0545, because I had Breakfast Club this morning. The speaker today was a professional storyteller. She told several Christmas stories. It was entertaining. After BC I stopped by the Kava House to read the papers. The WSJ had a major story on Michigan passing a right-to-work law. I was totally surprised that the measure passed. Although I am not a big fan of unions I don't think the new legislation will have much impact. I think I said the same thing yesterday. After the Kava House I walked Ms P around the block. I then started writing Christmas cards. I was done by 1300. I had a 1400 Grand Rapids Building Authority meeting. We had a small agenda and we adjourned at 1430. I will now walk to the post office to mail my Christmas cards. Nancy is on Meijer's Garden committee dealing with the new Japanese Garden that is being constructed at the Gardens. They had a 1100 meeting. After the meeting she will work her normal Wednesday afternoon shift. Tonight we are going to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. I know it is a day early but change is good. Not much on TV so we will probably head to bed early.

Tuesday December 11, 2012

It was cold this morning, 27⁰, when Ms P and I went out at 0400. The ground had a thin layer of snow. I did not do any exercises at home but headed directly to the MAC at 0800. I really put on the layers and it seemed to work. I was nice and toasty except for my feet. I will solve the cold feet problem next year. I am still not doing any exercises that might pull my stitches. I hope to resume these exercises on Thursday. I am still ordering small coffees because my stomach cannot tolerate too much. The big talk in Mi is the pending right-to-work legislation. There is a huge rally in Lansing today. It will be interesting to see the impact of the legislation in 10 months. I had a light lunch and then headed upstairs to start writing check to charities that we give to once a year. It took me most of the afternoon. Nancy spent most of the afternoon getting packages ready to mail to the kids. I took the packages to the post office. The line at the PO was almost out the door. Ms P and I took a quick walk around the block. I talked to both Missy and Debbie this afternoon. Tonight is a big TV night for me. However, I have to head to bed early because I have to get up early for Breakfast Club.

Monday December 10, 2012

Monday morning and Ms P and I went outside at 0400. The weather was a snow/rain mix. I really did not know if I could ride my bike today. Nancy and I watched the early morning shows. Nancy has to meet some vendors this morning so she is not going to the MAC. Because of my stitches I cannot do any chip-ups or pushups. I walked outside at 0730 and decided that the roads were wet but not frozen. I strapped on my miner's lantern and got on my retro and pedaled to the MAC. I did all my routine, except for the upper body exercises at the MAC. I finished my routine with a 1.5 mile run. My time for the 1.5 miles was 16'. At one time I could run 1.5 miles in 12'. After the MAC I pedaled to the Kava House. Lately, because of a sour stomach I have been drinking a small coffee. I continued today. Both the WSJ and DFP only rehashed the weekend news. After a quick lunch I ran several errands. I had to buy several recessed light bulbs for our kitchen. I like the lights but they are pricey, $8 each. I keep thinking that I will start my Christmas cards soon. Maybe tomorrow. This afternoon Nancy went to another hospital guild party. She is my party girl. Did you know that a lot of folks comment how much Nancy looks like Judith Dench, the British actress. I think Judith Dench looks like Nancy but she is much shorter, 5'1" vs 5'4".

Sunday December 9, 2012

Sunday morning and Ms P and I went out at 0500. it was spitting snow. Today Nancy and I declared that today is the official end of "jet lag". We are back to normal except that Nancy's foot still hurts and I cannot swim because of the 7 stitches in my hand. Nancy did go swimming and I ran 1.5 miles on the track. After the MAC we headed to Meijer's for some supplies. I filled the Taurus up and gas was $3.33 per gallon. Nancy fixed her world famous poached eggs for breakfast. After reading a few section of the GRP I headed upstairs for my Sunday nap. I started to read my book but was soon asleep. After the nap I took Ms P around the block in a freezing drizzle. Tonight Nancy's Book Club is having their Christmas party. It will be at the Moleski's. Stay tuned. There were 11 folks at the Christmas party. Plenty of food and drink was had by all. The conversation was friendly and filled with holiday cheer. Michigan politics was not discussed tonight. We got home at 2030. I watched the first half of the Lions/Packers game.

Saturday December 8, 2012

We are back, last week Saturday Nancy and Bob got home from their big trip to Vietnam. It was a great trip. Vietnam is a beautiful country. The times they have caught up with VN. Every hotel we stayed in had free Wifi in the room. I used the note section of my itouch to take notes on our daily travels. Below our my unedited notes. Tues 11/13 Chicago ok but mechanical problem flight delayed 4 hours, arrive japan, flight to Bangkok canceled, tomorrow fly to Beijing then Bangkok. I don't know what happened to Thurs. Friday Nov 16: I think, Tokyo to Beijing, plane delayed again, got into Bangkok at 0200. Oat folks picked us up. Great hotel, will leave in hour for flight to Hanoi and hope to catch up with group. Hot in Bangkok, snow in Beijing. Saturday Nov. 17 caught up with group yesterday, took tour in evening, saw lowering of flag at Ho Chi Minh mausoleum. Sat morn took tour to remote village. Took ferry to village. Saw rice paper making, area very poor. In pm visit Confucius temple. Dinner at local cafe sat outside. Good food. Ok with chop sticks Sunday Nov 18, up early took bus to Halong Bay. Stopped at work shop of Agent Orange victims. Arrive Halong 1300, took launch to junk. Junk was small but nice. Visited island cave, watched sunset from upper deck of junk. Great dinner. Halong Bay was great, must see if in VT. Pleasant sleep on junk. Monday morning leave junk early. Fly to Hue ancient capital. Stay in nice hotel. Visited pagoda and took boat ride on Perfume river. Tuesday Nov 20 took tour of Imperial Citadel. Impressive. Visited orphanage supported by OAT. Main Nun recently passed attended Buddhist Memorial service. Much like Irish wake. Nov 21: Wednesday drove to Danang. Danang has really changed in 48 years. Very modern with many tall buildings. Visited China Beach, world class beach. Staying in Hoi An an ancient city. Super hotel with great pool. Attended VN cooking class. Thursday, Thankgiving, visited ancient Temples of mountain people. Beautiful area have lunch and dinner in Hoi An. Friday morning took bus to Danang and flew to Nha Trang the premier beach resort in VN. Looks like Miami what a difference 48 years make. Drove to rural village for lunch. Dinner at local restaurant. Nov 24: Saturday took boat trip to island resort. Paddled round boat. We went swimming. Water and beach were great. Lunch on island. Nov 25: Sunday took four hour bus ride up the mountains to Dalat. Toured Dalat and took elevated tram ride over pine forest. Dinner with middle class family. Dalat because of elevation is much cooler than coastal cities. Monday: Dalat took tour to flower and coffee growing area. Coffee growing area is huge, coffee grown on side of mountain. Tasted weasel shit coffee. Not kidding very expensive. Visited Montagnards village. Viets moved mountain people out of traditional lands to reservation like areas. In pm visited Dalat U talked to students. Not much different than US. Later attended mountain people dance demonstration. Nancy and I sampled homemade rice wine from large ceramic jug Nov 27: Tuesday flew to Saigon. Could not recognize any project I worked on at airport. Saigon is booming. Looking like Singapore. Took tour, saw my apartment, it will be torn down soon for new high rise. Took cyclo tour, dinner at hotel. Wednesday took boat tour on Mekong. Visited several craft factories. Had lunch in old landlord's home. Got back at 1600. Nancy and I had drink on roof of Rex Hotel. Rex was home of news folks during war. We then walked to Continental Hotel. Oldest hotel in city. I had eaten there many times in 63&64. It now has AC. Dinner was great. French food. Stopped at night market on way back to hotel. Thursday, Nancy and Bob play hookey and strike out on own. First stop is old office. It is still standing. Cheap Charlies is gone. Stopped at Majestic Hotel, 2 star 64, 5 star 2012. My old apartment ready for demolition. Took several pics. Had French pastries at new upscale building. Same location where I would drink a coke and smoke a cigar in evening. One evening I was headed to cafe when I had an urgent need to use head. I went home and took care of business. I headed back to cafe but it was closed because the VC had thrown a bomb in cafe. It opened next day. Nancy spent several hours shopping. Tonight have Farewell dinner. Dinner was in local restaurant and the food was great. We took a final bus tour around Saigon. Friday morning, November 30, Nancy and I are up at 0500. We have a early flight to Bangkok. Arrived in Bangkok in early afternoon. We are staying in the same hotel we stayed in earlier. Nancy and I walked around the neighborhood. Bangkok has severe traffic problems. About 1800 we take a taxi to the night market. It took about 45 minutes to go several blocks. The night market was jammed and it was very hot, 90⁰. We stayed about 90 minutes before heading back to the hotel. Saturday morning we get up at 0400 and get ready for our trip back home. We fly from Bangkok to Japan where we change plans. We fly from Japan directly to Chicago and then on to GR. It took 24 hours to travel from Bangkok to GR. We were zombies when we got home. Sunday morning December 2 our first day back home. We cannot sleep past 0600 so we get up and go to the MAC for a very short swim. After our brief swim we head to Meijer's to restock our reefer. Nancy does fix her world famous poached eggs for breakfast. We spend the rest of the day resting and catching up. Monday: Both Bob and Nancy have serious jet lag. I my at home routine at 50% and then ride my bike to the MAC. I have coffee at the MAC and read the WSJ and DFP. In the PM we get almost three weeks of mail. I take an afternoon nap and work on reading the mail. I think I have developed stomach flu because my stomach is upset and I am chilled all the time. We head to bed early. Tuesday and I do my entire routine at 50%. I am still very tired. I read the WSJ and DFP but really cannot remember anything important. Ms P came home today. It was great to see her. She was moody for awhile but after about four hours she forgave us for abandoning her. Christmas programs have knocked out NCIS tonight. We head to bed early. I am still chilled and my stomach is not in balance. Wednesday: I am glad that today is my easy day. I pedal to Bill's for breakfast. Coffee upsets my stomach so I had tomato juice and oatmeal for breakfast. In the afternoon I visited Dr Yurko and she removed a sun damaged section of my left hand. It required seven stitches. We have a very light dinner and head to bed early. Thursday and because of my stitches I cannot exercise so I ride to Bill's for breakfast. The DFP has many articles on the proposed right-to-work laws that the MI legislature is voting on. I am not pro-union but I think the RTW laws really create a lot of bad feelings for very little gain. In the afternoon I have an eye exam. Dr. Anderson gave me a new contact and it really and improvement. The chills and stomach problems seem to be getting better. Thursday evening we attend a Christmas Gala at Meijer's Garden. I wore a suit and tie and Nancy really looked good. The Gardens were all deck out with Christmas decorations. It was very impressive. The food on the other hand was not very good. We got home about 2100. Friday morning I think my stomach problems are returning so I take a pill that we took with us to VN. We were to take the pill if we developed some stomach problems. Nancy told me that her stomach was upset last night because of some food last night. I was probably premature in my starting the pill. I still cannot exercise because of my had so I walked to the Kava House. I am feeling much better today so I started doing some chores. I winterized the lawnmower and got the snow shovels down from the garage rafters. I took my bike to the shop to get snow tires installed. Nancy and I, along with Ms P, made a trip to Costco and Target this afternoon. I also took my watch in the jewelers to get its steel band cleaned. In the evening we attended the OHNA's TGIF. The TFIF was well attended. We spent several hours visiting with neighbors. Saturday. Nancy had trouble sleeping last night because her foot was bothering her. She went downstairs about 0400 and Ms P stayed by her side. I got up at 0500 and Nancy was wrapping Christmas presents. She said that the pain is not as bad when she is standing. We had our first snow of the season last night. I rode my retro bike to Bill's for breakfast. I had their Saturday special. After breakfast I ran several errands. It is now 1730 and Nancy and I are going out for soup at Panera Bread.

Monday November 12, 2012

I did not have anyone wake me this morning so I slept in until 0720. It was raining this morning and the temperature today is suppose to drop to the high 20s. Snow maybe tomorrow. I drove the C2 to the MAC. After the MAC I headed to the Kava House. The Kava House gave me a free coffee because I was a veteran. I hope congress solves the fiscal cliff problem because I am tired of reading about it. I am also tired of reading about Greece. I had a quick lunch and then headed upstairs to pack. Debbie can pack for a two week trip and only take a carryon. She never checks a bag. We know another couple that was on our Eastern Europe trip that also never checks a bag and they go on a lot of long trips. I took extra pains when packing today and I did get the weight of my checked bag down to 25 pounds. Nancy's bag weighed 30 pounds. We are getting better but we must still check a bag. After packing I took a 2 mile walk. It was windy and cold with the temperature near 32. I hope it does not snow tonight. Nancy is fixing Scottish oatmeal. It is a good night for a bowl of hot oatmeal. We will watch some TV before turning in. I got my 30 in today, did you?

Sunday November 11, 2012

I am writing this at 2033 on Sunday Nov 11. I had a great weekend. Friday morning I took Ms P out and then after the at home routine I pedaled to the MAC. I am going 1/2 speed today because I have a long drive this afternoon. I did get to the Kava House and had time to read the WSJ and DFP. I got home about 1300. Kim was just finishing cleaning the house. She took Ms P with her when she left. Nancy and I are going to be gone 18 days and Ms P will spent 9 days with Kim and 9 days in a Kennel. This will be the first time we have boarded Ms P. I hope things go well. About 1400 I get in the C2 and drove to Ann Arbor. Steve, Lucas and I are going to the UM/NU football game tomorrow. It will be three generation of Scott men out on the town. Steve and Lucas are flying in from Long Beach, CA later tonight. I checked into the Holiday Inn on Plymouth in Ann Arbor. For dinner I had a hamburger and beer in the bar. Steve and Lucas got in about 0130 on Saturday. They went straight to bed. Saturday morning I quietly get up and head downstairs for coffee. I took my Kindle and read the WSJ. About 0900 Steve gets Lucas up and we all have the Breakfast Buffet offered at the motel. It was really good. It was dark and gloomy at 1000 but we did not think it would rain. We all wore layers in case the weather got bad. If the sun came out we could take off a layer. The motel had a shuttle to the Big House. However, bridge construction made it difficult to get to the game. We stood in line for about 45 minutes and we missed about 8 minutes of the game. This is Lucas's first college football game. I think he was overwhelmed when we walked in the stadium. The attendance was 112, 500. We sat in the south end zone 4 rows up. We had good seats. The sun came out during the game. This is my first time in the Big House since their major renovation. I liked the improvements especially the gigantic TV screens at each end of the field. Since the 1950s I have attend two UM/NU games at the Big House. Both times UM has lost. What a game! It was very exciting. We stood most of the game because the folks in front of us were standing. Everyone around us was very nice and Lucas stood on the bench in front of us to get a better view of the game. We saw a kickoff return that went 100 yards but was called back. We saw some great catches and of course the tying field goal with 2" remaining. This is the first time I have seen, in person, an overtime game. It was exciting. Steve, Lucas and I were really hyped. When the score was tied Lucas was high fiving all the folks around us. The same true when UM won the overtime. We took the shuttle back to the motel and then took a ride around the campus. We had dinner at an Applebee's near the motel. It was filled with UM fans. Sunday morning and I get up and get a coffee and read the DFP on the Kindle. Steve let Lucas sleep in. We had the motel's buffet and then got in Steve's rental and headed to Campus. We walked around Campus. Steve showed Lucas the dorm he stayed in, West Quad. I showed him South Quad where I resided for two years. We also saw the Women's dorm, Betty Barbour, where my Mother stayed in 1924. We walked through the MI Union and stopped in several stores selling UM apparel. Steve bought several items for his girl's in LB. I liked the improvements to the campus that have been made since I attended UM. The campus looked nice and well maintained. We got back to the motel about 1400. I told Steve and Lucas what a great weekend I had with them. I headed home about 1400. I got home at 1730. Nancy fixed soup and hot dogs for dinner. It was good. Today is Veteran's Day so make sure you hug a veteran. Tomorrow when I go to the MAC I will ask all the Vets that I know if they can remember their serial number. About 99% can remember. Also on November 11, 1955 I played my last football game for AHS. It was a home game and we played Hamtramck. We won a high scoring game and finished the season with 6 wins, 1 tie and 2 loses. It was a good season and I was named the team's MVP. I cherish to this day that honor.

Thursday November 8, 2012

The lethargic state that Ms P was in has gone away. Apparently it just takes time to get over the shots she had yesterday. It was in the 20s when I pedaled to the MAC. Thursday is a tri day. Both the track and pool at the MAC were empty. It took me almost 2 hours to read the WSJ and DFP today. Everyone is trying to analysis the mistakes made by the Republicans. Enough already. When I got home it was almost 1400. I had a quick lunch and then headed to Berger Chevy to get the oil changed in the C2. While waiting in line someone pointed out that I had a headlight burned out. I got a new headlight in addition to the oil change. I spent some time in my office reading mail and packing. About 1630 Nancy suggested we take our 1 mile walk early. It sounded good so we grabbed Ms P and took the walk. It was dark and gloomy. A typical November day. I can remember bridge inspecting in November and the flash on my camera would go off. This was in the middle of the day. Such is November in MI. Today I was watching CNBC and they had a list of places where you don't want to retire. MI was #1 because of the bad economy and weather. I, of course, disagree. We had dinner at Great Lakes Shipping tonight. It was empty when we arrived but soon filled up. I had a French Dip and Nancy had a prime rib sandwich. Tonight we will read a paper copy of the GRP and then watch "Person of Interest" before retiring. I got my 30' in today did you? Since we will be leaving for SE Asia in a couple of days I thought I would report on some November letters that I wrote to Mom, 50 and 51 years ago. On Nov 27 1961 I wrote Mother that I arrived on Midway Island on Monday the 25th. It was a 4 hour flight from HI to Midway. My tour of duty on Midway was 12 months. On 18 Nov 62, 50 years ago, I wrote Mom that I hoped this would be my last letter from Midway. I wrote that I did not have orders yet but hoped to get them soon. The delay in orders was caused by the Cuban missile crisis. All vacations were cancelled and everyone was staying where they were. I was in a panic mood. I did not want to stay on Midway any longer. I can remember my boss sending a message to the CEC assignment desk asking that I get some orders. They wrote back that they could not get me a Stateside assignment because of the crisis but they had an immediate opening at the construction office in SE Asia. I sent a message back saying get my ass to SE Asia. I had my orders in 24 hours. I had to go to the library to find out where Saigon was. I was glad to get off Midway. I left about the 2nd week in December and got home around the 17th of Dec. It was 75 when I left Midway and -17 when I arrived in Alpena. And that was the life of Ensign Scott, CEC, USNR 50 years ago November.

Wednesday November 7, 2012

I could not stay up to watch the final election results. I did check some results at 0300 on my itouch. MI had 6 ballot proposals and I was happy with the results on 5 of the proposals. The presidential election was a disappointment. I guess we should not worry because the sun came out this morning and we are experiencing a wonderful fall day. Today is my easy day so I pedaled to Bill's for breakfast. The WSJ was loaded with election stories. I was surprised that the DFP did not have very comprehensive results. Maybe they went to press too early. Like in sports it appears that successful politicians have a rough time coming back after they have retired. The Senate races in WI and NE are good examples. I was glad to see the Hetch-Hetchy proposal to remove SF's water storage dam was defeated. Maybe the folks in SF are smarter than I think. After breakfast I rode around Reeds Lake. Spell check corrected me when I wrote that I "road" (rode) around Reeds Lake. I think that the digital versions of the WSJ and DFP have many grammar errors. The WSJ reported that an Englishman working in China was "an" MI5 agent. I think it should be "a" MI5 agent. Nancy, the English teacher, said in today's world it doesn't matter. When I got home I had just enough time to grab Ms P and take her to the Vet. Ms P had her shots updated. After the Vets we stopped at the Woodland Animal Hospital to finalize Ms P's reservation. She will be boarding from Nov 17 to Nov 26. Kim will pick her up and then deliver her back to us on Monday Dec 3. We get home on Dec 1. I also stopped at Costco to get gas, $3.35 per gallon, and pick up a prescription. Nancy is working at the Gardens this afternoon. It is now 1447 and I am heading outside to rake some leaves. I picked up all the leaves in the front yard. I was done in about an hour. Ms P was outside with me but she was very lethargic. I think it was the shots she got from the Vet. I talked to our neighbor, Allen Benet, about last night's election. Allen is fun to talk to because his political views are 180⁰ from mine. He has a good sense of humor and likes to point out the error in my views. Allen has a new beagle named Lillie. Surprising Ms P gets along with Lillie. Nancy has been on the Volunteer Board at Meijer's Garden for two terms (6 years). Today was her last meeting and the Garden's Cafe gave the board a carrot cake in honor of her service. We are going to have wine and chips before our light dinner. We will watch some TV before heading upstairs.

Tuesday November 6, 2012

Another cold night and it was very cold, 23, when Ms P and I went out at 0400. Today is my tri day so I did not leave the MAC until 1130. Several people asked me if I had voted and I told them that us old folks can vote absentee. I was surprised that not many folks knew that this privilege was granted us seniors. Speaking of voting the first presidential election I voted in was 1960. I voted for Nixon. Because I was going to college in Ann Arbor and could not get home to Alpena (a 6 hour drive) I was allowed to vote absentee. The WSJ wrote several articles on the political change over in China. It is a very secretive operation. The EU seems unable to solve their money problems. I hope that today's election will set in motion a pragmatic solution to our money problems. I don't think it matters who gets elected. The USA just need some stability. Nancy and I took Ms P on a 1 mile walk and then at 1600 we headed downtown to a paper sale at Design-Design. They make greeting cards and paper products especially for the holidays. The lines were very long. I stood in line while Nancy collected what she wanted to buy. I was in line for over an hour. Tonight we will have a light dinner and then spend some time watching the election coverage. I think there are some interesting races especially Senate races in MA, WI and MO. We have a senate race in MI but the Republican ran a terrible campaign and will lose. MI has six referendums on the ballot. They are very important and I hope cool heads prevail. The San Francisco ballot proposal on the Hetch-Hetchy water storage dam is really interesting. I think only an idiot would vote to remove this water storage dam. But it is SF so who knows. It should be an interesting evening.

Monday November 5, 2012

It was a cold 23 when Ms P and I went out at 0500. This is our first morning with a good frost. After completing my at-home routine I got on my bike and rode to the Kava House. I did not go to the MAC because at 1100 I have to drive Nancy to the doctor. I am glad today is the last day of election ads. The WSJ had a lot of stories on the election. Even a business article was skewed to the impact of tomorrow's election. Of course they also had several stories on Sandy. Did global warming cause Sandy? I got home in time for Nancy to get to her 1130 appointment. After the doctor we headed to the Dollar store so Nancy could by a measuring cup for Ms P's food. We need to provide a cup to the kennel so they can give Ms P the proper portion. We then stopped at the 28th Street Meijer's to get some supplies for this week. After a quick lunch we paid our last quarterly tax and the insurance on our two cars. I tried to pay the auto insurance using their phone system. It was a disaster and I gave up and wrote a check. I walked to the PO to mail the checks. I then went on a 3.5 mile walk. We will have a light dinner and then watch some TV (what's new). We are beginning to assemble some clothes for our SE Asia trip. This Friday I am going to Ann Arbor. Steve and Lucas are flying in and the Scott men are going to the UM/Northwestern game on Saturday. On 14 Nov 61 I wrote a letter to Mom from Port Hueneme, CA. I had been quite busy and I told Mom that on Veterans Day a group of us went to Disney Land. On November 12th I worked at an Air Show at the Pt Mugu Navy Air Base. I saw the Blue Angels. I am going to leave for San Francisco on November 22. I will fly out of SF to Hawaii and then to Midway Island. I have been spending some time getting ready for Midway. I asked Mom to send me some sporting goods that I had at home. Tennis racket, handball gloves and swim fins were several items. In retrospect I should not have asked Mom to do this work for me. The goods were readily available at any Navy Exchange for a reasonable cost. After all an Ensign made $222.30 a month.

Sunday November 4, 2012

It was snowing when I left Bill's but it did not last more than 5 minutes. I took a detour on my My weekend started Saturday morning with a cold dark ride to Bill's. I had their super breakfast. ride home by riding around Reeds Lake. I had 12 miles on the bike when I got home. My bike mileage this year is between 1600 and 1700 miles. In the last 4 months I have put more miles on the bike than my C2. My chore for Saturday was to rake leaves. Ms P was outside with me. The leaves are concentrated in our planter strip and the lower section of our front yard. We do have some leaves in our backyard under our flowering fruit tree. I raked the leaves in a big pile and then put them in GR Yard Waste bags. I still had some leaves scattered over sections of the front yard. So I put the leaf bag on the mower. My problem was that the grass has grown some since the last cutting. I could not leave the grass looking partially cut so I cut the whole front yard. The running mower is what fires up Ms P, as long as the mower is running she wants to play ball. I developed a sore arm. I spent 3 hour outside. After all the outside work I took a shower and then a short nap. At 1730 Nancy and I got in the Taurus and headed to Marco's for dinner. We met the Namey's. Marco's was very crowded. They have great food especially their butternut squash soup. After dinner we drove to the Namey's for dessert. It was a great evening. DST ended last night so in order not to get confused I set the alarm on my itouch and cell phone. They automatically change to the correct time. Sunday morning and the alarms go off at the correct time. We head to the MAC for our Sunday swim. The pool was not crowded today. Nancy was having a reaction to her new blood pressure medicine so we did not go to Meijer's. I bought gas at BP in Eastown, $3.55 per gallon and coffees at the Kava House. Nancy did fix her world famous poached eggs for breakfast. I took my nap and then walked Ms P around the block. It is now 1606 and I am going on a two mile walk. Tonight we will have a light dinner and then watch some TV and read the GRP. Presently the temperature outside is 41 with bright sunshine. 90% of the leaves are off the trees and it is a great time for a brisk walk. Remember to get your 30' in today.

Friday November 2, 2012

It started out as another cool November day. After my at-home routine I headed to the MAC in bright sunshine. I must take my car into a paint sealing place by 1300 so I hurried through my routine and did not have time to go to the Kava House. I had a small coffee at Starbucks in Breton Village. I got home at 1200 and had a quick lunch before heading to the car finish shop. It took about 1.5 hours to put the sealer on. I took my Kindle so I read all the time. After the car work I headed to Woodland Mall. I stopped at the Apple Store to see if the iphone can use the Sprint cell system. It can. I also stopped at Radio Shack to get an electrical converter for our trip to SE Asia. When I got home about 1500 I suggested to Nancy that we take Ms P on our 1 mile walk early. She agreed so we put on our walking shoes and headed out the door. It was a beautiful fall day for a walk. I spent the rest of the afternoon checking on relatives who served in the Revolutionary War. I found two. Mark Sanborn who is a direct ancestor 6 generations removed served in Col. Warner's regiment in Jersey, Captain Barron's company for defense of Connecticut River frontier and Col. Bedel's regiment, April 1778. Mark Sanborn was born in Hampton Falls, NH March 4, 1750 and died in Bath, NH July 27, 1821. I found his record in the Sanborn Genealogy book. In fact they had an appendix titled Revolutionary Sanborns. Captain Stephen Tucker, direct ancestor 7 generations served in Backus (4) Light Horse, CT. His card # was 37071857. I found this reference in a web site called fold3.com. I also have a photo of Captain Tucker's tombstone in Woodstock, CT. He was born 1732 and died Nov 8, 1808 all in Woodstock, CT. I also found two letters that I wrote Mother. This first letter was written Saturday October 28, 1960. It was near midnight and I told Mother that I was real busy with a lot of exams recently. I just got a letter from my Draft Board that I had to report for a physical. I transferred to the Ann Arbor Draft Board so I would not have to go back to Alpena. I remember the physical. We took a bus out of Ann Arbor to Ft Wayne near Detroit. The physical and testing took most of the day. I passed. 1960 was the first year I could vote and I had an absentee ballot. I voted for Nixon. The second letter, 30 Oct 61, was from Port Hueneme, CA the home of the Pacific CBs. I was attending the Civil Engineering Corps Officer School. The school was about two months. There were 39 officers in my class. We had 4 Lieutenants, 16 Lieutenant junior grades, 17 Ensigns and 2 Officers from the Turkish Navy. The Lieutenants and Ltjg were all Naval Academy graduates. All the Ensigns, like myself, were all graduates of a ROTC program or OCS. The Turkish officers were classmates of mine at UM. Classes ran from 0800 to 1500. We had about 1.5 hours of homework each night. After classes were over we all headed to the gym. Morning roll call was at 0600. We stood two inspections since classes started. On Friday we all headed to the Officers' Club for Happy Hour. Drinks were 1/2 price. Last Friday we had a dance at the Club and local girls were invited. Last Sunday I went into LA to see the Lions play. We got in for 1/2 price if we wore our uniforms. I went with five classmates. My spelling and grammar was really bad on my letters home. A portion of our training had to do with weapons of mass destruction. The Navy was really concerned about nuclear blasts and chemical and biological attacks. I think the Soviets had just exploded a big H bomb. We had a lot of classes on survival methods. I even became certified on design of blast proof buildings. It all seems kind of silly now but folks were real serious in the 60s. Nancy fixed chicken burritos for dinner. They were good. We will watch CSI, NY before heading to bed.

Thursday November 1, 2012

It was in the mid 30s when I went out at 0430. I will be glad when we change to Standard Time this weekend. I think I have been sleeping in lately because it is so dark in the morning. If I left home before 0800 I would need to use my bike lights. This morning I did the tri. I really like swimming but I am so slow. Today Stephen's kindergarten teacher was in the lane next to me and his time was much better than mine. It takes me 30 minutes to swim 1,000 yards. After the MAC I pedaled to the Kava House. Folks keep asking me if I get cold riding the bike and my standard answer is "layers". It's true layers of clothing keep one warm. Finally the WSJ started reporting on subjects other than Sandy. They really got fired up about the EU problems especially in Greece and Portugal. I did not read the DFP because I had to be home by 1300. The furnace man was coming to check out our furnace. He was right on time and said everything was ok. This afternoon Nancy has to work at the hospital gift shop. When she gets home we are going to Costco so she can pick up a prescription. We will have dinner at Great Lakes Shipping. Thursday is a good TV night. We watched "Person of Interest" and "Elementary".

Wednesday October 31, 2012

I had to get up early this morning because I have breakfast club. It was pitch black on my ride downtown. Today's speaker was from the GR Public Museum. The City of GR no longer funds the Museum so they have to find other sources of funds. A three county millage has been proposed but no decision has been made. It was a very interesting presentation. I happen to think that museums and parks all enhance quality of life. I always support public taxes to support these facilities. After BC I stopped at the Kava House and read the WSJ. Almost the entire issue was about Sandy and its aftermath. It is a major problem. "The best laid plans of mice and men are often screwed by Mother Nature. When I got home Nancy was on her way to see the Doctor about blood pressure medication. After we walked around the block I put Ms P in the C2 and headed to Rylee's. I punched a small hole in my office wall so I wanted to purchase a fixture that would cover the hole but could also serve as a hanger. I got the right stuff and it only cost $0.79. Eat your heart out Home Depot. Nancy got home about 1200 and she had some prescriptions sent to Costco. The Doctor also prescribed some stomach medicine for me to take on our trip to SE Asia. Nancy is working at the Gardens and Ms P and I are heading to Costco. Today is Halloween my least favorite holiday. Last year we had bus loads of kids and adults knocking at our door. We quit counting at 300. Tonight we are turning our lights out and not participating. The Dental folks will thank us. I just got back from a 2 mile walk ( had to get my 30' in). It has been raining all day and the rain and wind have taken about 80% of the leaves off the trees.

Tuesday October 30, 2012

It was cold and windy last night. It was raining hard at 0500 when I took Ms P out. She saw the rain and immediately went inside. I was going to drive to the MAC today because of the rain. However, when I went outside it appeared the rain had stopped. I got on my bike and headed to the MAC. I made great time because the wind was at my back. Today was my tri day. It was lightly raining when I left the MAC so I ended up at Breton Village. Today's papers were loaded with stories about Sandy. I got wet on my ride home from Breton Village. The first thing I did was to put my outerwear into the dryer. I had a quick lunch and then checked some mail before taking a short nap. Nancy is fixing pork chops with stuffing for dinner, yum. I am going to take Ms P around the block and then continue reading the Sanborn family book. Did you know the first Sanborn came to the North America in 1632. They sailed from South Hampton, England, March 9, 1632 aboard the "William Francis" and landed in Boston on June 3, 1632. Nancy had a 1700 meeting with a vendor so I ate dinner alone. I watched the news and read the GRP. We watched the NCIS shows and I tried to stay awake for Vegas but failed.

Monday October 29, 2012

It was real cold when I took Ms P out at 0530, 33⁰. I went back to bed and did not get up until 0720. I really put on the layers for my ride to the MAC. It worked because I did not get cold. The WSJ had several articles on Asia and Europe that I found interesting. They love to report on the ruling elite in China and I like to read about it. Since I have already voted I do not read the political articles. After lunch I took Ms P around the block. Ms P must know it is hunting season because she chases every rabbit and squirrel she sees. I spent part of the afternoon calling doctors. The biopsy I had done on my hand showed skin cancer so I made an appointment to have more skin removed. Nancy had the same problem so she will go in Dec 4 and I will go in December 5. I called our GP, Dr Kutsche, about the cost of my annual physical. In the past Medicare has paid most of the cost. I was told that Medicare no longer covers annuals. Can I thank ObamaCare? I also called Carol Smith about our cell phones. Scott Civil pays for both Nancy's and my phone. I am thinking of getting a iphone. Carol said that an arrangement can be made to add an iphone. I would pay the difference in cost. I also called the company that put a paint sealer on the C2. I have a Friday appointment to get the sealer renewed. My last task for the afternoon was to drive to D&W and get some coffee filters. Tonight we will have a light dinner and then watch some TV. I hope to read the GRP on-line before dinner. I checked my facebook and saw a picture of AJ making sand angels at the beach. I called Missy and she said they were at a Mexican beach just south of the border. They went with a friend last weekend.

Sunday October 28, 2012

Saturday morning was very cold with temperatures in the high 30s. I put on some long underwear the I bought at Costco for my ride to Bill's. Like on Wednesday I had the super breakfast instead of healthy oatmeal. After Breakfast I rode around Reeds Lake. When I got home I got out the rake and started raking leaves. I filled about 6 GR yard bags. It was a beautiful fall day. Nancy also spent some time trimming back flowers. Ms P really likes the cooler weather. After the yard work was complete we got in the Taurus and headed to Costco. I bought some more long underwear and we also got peanut butter, mouthwash and sandwich rolls. Just a note that every once in a while Costco has some super bargains on clothing. The recent stocking of winter underwear is a good example. I took Ms P around the block and then watched some football on TV. Nancy fixed black bean soup with turkey sandwiches for dinner. We took our 1 mile walk and then I settled in to watch the UM/Nebraska football game. It was disappointing. Sunday morning and all the alarms went off at 0655. We got up and headed to the MAC for our morning swim. I swam 1500 yards. After the MAC we headed to Meijer's. Gas at Meijer's was $3.51. I took two bags of bottles back for the refund. Five of the six machines were down so it took nearly 30 minutes to do something that usually takes 5. Nancy fixed her world famous poached eggs for breakfast. I did take my afternoon nap. After the nap I put on the storm doors for the side and rear entrances. I emptied the bird feeder and stored the top until spring. I also took Ms P around the block. Speaking of Ms P yesterday we went to the Chow Hound to get some dry dog food. The clerk suggested that we upgrade her dry food to a high protein chicken based food. This food has no grain. This morning I put out the new food. Nancy also fixed her wet meal with a hidden pill mixed in. Ms P ate the dry food but not the wet. Usually it is the other way around. I did watch several minutes of 4th quarter of the Lion's game. Tonight Nancy is fixing soup and hot dogs for dinner. We will take our walk and then finish reading the GRP and watch some TV before going to bed.

Friday October 26, 2012

The weather folks were right. It got cold last night, 42⁰ at 0700. I really layered up for my bike ride. Today for the first time since we have been back from CA I did all my exercises at 100%. It was dark and gloomy on my ride to the MAC but when I left the MAC the sun was out full force. The WSJ had an article on how the Iranians are funding aid projects in Afghanistan, especially in communities near their border with Afghanistan. Our smart folks in Washington are spending billions on a nation that really does not like us and when we leave in 2014 all our effort in dollars and lives will have been wasted. Will we ever learn? Michigan voters are voting on a referendum that if passed would stop construction of an International bridge between MI and Ontario. The Canadians desperately want the bridge. In fact Canada is funding the bridge and has paid Michigan's share. The Governor, all business groups and construction unions are for the bridge. The Feds will allow Michigan's share, paid by Canada, to be used for local match on all Federal Highway projects. That means that Cities and Counties will be able to fund highway and bridge projects. This is a windfall of almost a billion dollars worth of construction. A lot of false advertising has been run opposing the bridge. The ads were paid for by the owner of the Ambassador Bridge. He has a monopoly and does not want any competition. I think I have ranted on this issue before so I will say no more. After I quick lunch I walked Ms P around the block and then took a short nap. Tonight Nancy and I are going to the GR Symphony. The Moleski's gave us tickets. We are taking the Moleskis out for dinner at the Bull's Head in downtown GR. We had great seats at the concert. Surprise! Surprise! I liked the concert. We were home by 2230.

Thursday October 25, 2012

The wind really started blowing last night. Today is suppose to be our last hot day, 78⁰ tonight, the temperature is suppose to drop to 45⁰ and it might snow this weekend. Today is another tri day and I did not leave the MAC until 1130. It was noon when I got to the Kava House. I got home at 1400. After a quick lunch I took Ms P around the block. The strong wind is blowing all the leaves off the trees. It is kind of nice walking through all the fallen leaves. I have been looking for a pair of open toe walking sandals for Nancy. I finally found a good pair at Gazelles. Nancy tried them on and said they will do the trick. Tonight we are going to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. It has been three weeks since we have visited GRS. After dinner we will take our walk and Nancy will start breaking in her shoes. I checked through my records and found several letters I wrote Mother from the Civil Engineer's Officer School in Port Hueneme, Ca. On 15 October 1961 I wrote Mom telling her how hot it was in CA. I had been to the beach and got a first class sunburn. I was kind of goofing off at the school and my grades kind of reflected it. We had a large number of Naval Academy (southern Maryland small boat and repair school) graduates in the class. They all had the rank of LTjg while us OCS graduates were just lowly Ensigns. I then told Mom that on Friday the 13th, yes Friday the 13th, I got my orders to Midway Island. I told Mom I wanted to go to a CB battalion but no billets were open. I told her to locate Midway draw a line between SF and Tokyo and Midway was halfway between. The Island was 1.5 miles long and 0.75 miles wide. On an upbeat note I said the tour was for only 12 months. I send my mother a short letter on 16 October 1961 along with a check for $230. I told Mom to keep $50 and to put the rest in my savings account. I asked Mom if Dad and Penny had shot any partridge. I signed off by saying I was on my way to the gym. The navy base had great recreational facilities. October 22, 1961. Another week of school and I told Mom that I was not setting the top of the curve. The Navy had filled all my cavities and next week I was getting a pair of Navy issue glasses. I bought a transistor radio at the Navy exchange. It cost $16. I asked Mom since I would not be home for Christmas if she wanted any of the many items offered at the Navy Exchange (free of all taxes) for a present. I also asked about Dad and Helen. Next week I was getting all my shots needed for overseas.

Wednesday October 24, 2012

Wednesday and it is my easy day. Nancy took Ms P out at 0530 while I stayed in bed. When I got up at 0700 it was pitch black outside. We need to change to regular time soon. I left shortly after 0800 and I needed to use by bike lights. I was going to have healthy oatmeal for breakfast but when I got to Bill's I was so hungry I ordered the super special, eggs, potatoes, sausage and toast. It was great. Today's WSJ had quite a few good articles. In fact it took me 90 minutes to read the WSJ. The problems with the US economy are scary. They had several stories on the military shakeup in China. I do not know why I have such an interest in China. I read every article I can find. The DFP was all about the Tigers and today's big game. I had to be careful when riding my bike because last night's rain made all the leaves on the road very slippery. After breakfast I rode around Reeds Lake. I then got in the C2 and ran some errands. I am trying to find some good quality open toed walking sandals for Nancy. We will be doing a lot of walking on our Vietnam trip. I found a pair and tomorrow I will take Nancy to see if they will fit. Today was a great Indian Summer day. The temperature reached 77 and the sun was out most of the day. In fact it was such a great day I loaded up the kayak and paddled around Reeds Lake. The lake with very quiet with only two fishermen on the lake. All the docks are out so I could get close to shore to get a good view of all the great homes around the lake. The water must still be warm because dozens of turtles were sunning themselves. When I got home I got my growler and headed to Harmony to get it filled. Tonight we grabbed Ms P and delivered some OHNA flyers. It seemed like all the neighbors were out blowing leaves. Tonight we will watch some of the Tiger game before heading to bed. Tomorrow is going to be our last Indian Summer day. Friday the high temperature is predicted to be 48⁰. I got my 30 in today did you? I hope everyone follows my Grandfather Scott's advice. GF Scott said that every day you have to work up a good barn yard sweat.

Tuesday October 23, 2012

The weather folks are forecasting an Indian Summer day with temps in the 70s. Rain is also possible. Today is my tri day. Despite the layoff my times in all three exercises was normal. After the MAC I pedaled to the Kava House. The WSJ has really been pursuing corruption in the Chinese ruling families. They have had several really interesting articles lately. I think that China has some real internal problems and it might implode. The trial of the ex-mayor of Detroit continues. If what the witnesses say are true the ex-mayor and his buddies should be put away for a long time. I did not get home until 1330. After a quick lunch Ms P and I walked around the block. Nancy just got home and said it was raining outside. I spent the afternoon cleaning up my desk. I even found the football tickets for the UM/NW game. Steve and Lucas are flying in for the game. Nancy fixed a shrimp with rice dish for dinner it was really good. We watched the NCIS shows and I stayed awake for the Vegas show. Have I told you how much I like my new Kindle. It was raining hard when I shut the TV off but no thunder so Ms P was mellow.

Monday October 22, 2012

Monday morning and Ms P let me know that I have to be ready to take her out at 0530. Today I am not going to the MAC because I have a 0900 doctor's appointment. I did my at home calisthenics, took a quick shower and then headed to the doctor's office. I had a spot on my hand that I thought was infected. In fact it looked like a boil. Dr Mary said it was not infected but looked like a skin cancer spot. She got out her knife and took a slice of the spot for a biopsy. After the doctor I headed home. I got on my bike and headed to the Kava House. I have a new Kindle Light and I think it is great. Amazon added many new features but the one I really like is the light. I can read in bed with the lights off. The Light has the same reading area but the overall dimensions are smaller than my original Kindle. They eliminated the keyboard and went to a touch screen keyboard. Politics in California often appears squirrely. However, I do like the way they decide winners in primaries. The two top vote getters are in the General Election regardless of party. So it is possible to have two politicians from the same party contesting for an elected office. This process seems to favor candidates with moderate positions. Goodbye commies and tea party folks. After the Kava House I rode my bike around Reeds Lake. When I got home I noticed that Nancy had a bandage on her face. Nancy also had an appointment with Dr Mary and she took a slice of Nancy's face to do a biopsy. After lunch I did some shopping for a 10,000 mile T-shirt. I also stopped by Dr Kutsche to get my flu shot. We had a light dinner ant then watched some TV. The big debate was on but we only watched a small portion. I watched the Lions get beat by the Bears.

Sunday October 21, 2012

Sunday and Bob and Nancy got back to our normal Sunday, a swim, trip to Meijer's for supplies (gas was $3.51) and Nancy's world famous poached eggs for breakfast. I took my afternoon nap. After the nap I walked Ms P around the walk and then took a 1.2 mile walk. Monday I have an early morning Doctor's appointment so I did my calisthenics this afternoon. Today is a perfect fall day, bright sunshine, wonderful color, and the temperature in the 60s. Nancy is fixing sloppy joes for dinners. After dinner we will take a 1 mile walk. We will finish off the evening by reading the GRP and watching some TV. I hope to be in bed by 2130.

Saturday October 20, 2012

I'm Back! After a busy two weeks I am back in GR and have a lot to report on about the last two weeks. My adventure began on Monday October 8. I got up at 0400 and Nancy and Ms P drove me to the airport. I had to catch a flight to San Francisco via Chicago. I got into San Francisco at 1130. I picked up my rental car from Hertz and drove down the 101 to Debbie's condo in Santa Clara. The purpose of my trip was to help Debbie move into her new house in San Jose. Nancy was flying out on Thursday to also assist. Debbie was taking the week off to make the move. When I got to the condo Debbie had already packed most of her belongings. Boxes were everywhere. Debbie had taken great pains to mark each box so that the movers would know where to place them in the new house. My job was to do anything Debbie wanted me to do to help with the move. I got to see the new house on Monday. Debbie was having new wood flooring installed. The flooring was tongue and groove solid black walnut. It was beautiful. The installer was very competent. In fact I was impressed with all of Debbie contactors. In addition to the floor she had to hire an alarm contractor, a gas fireplace installer, an electrician, a locksmith, and a couple to install new blinds and shutters. All the contractors arrived at the new house at the same time making it very hectic. In addition Comcast had to install the TV and the gas company had to check out her system. There were some tense moments like: could the new refrigerator fit in the space allocated for it. It fit with 1/4" to spare. On Tuesday and Wednesday we both made many trips between the condo and the new house. Debbie used the freeways but I used local streets. We did take some time to eat and Debbie took me to several restaurants near her home that had good beer and food. I even found a Starbuck's that was within easy walking distance of her new house. Thursday October 11 and the movers arrived at 0830. The moving crew consisted of 5 men and a very large truck. Also at 0930 I had to head to the airport to pick up Nancy. I was surprised at how easy it was to find a parking space near the baggage claim area. Nancy and I arrived at the same time. We got back to Debbie's condo about noon. The movers were almost done loading up. It took them 5 hours to load and 3.5 hours to unload. I was very impressed with the movers. They were very professional. Nancy really liked Debbie's new house. It is very open and airy. She has a fenced in back yard and a large front porch that runs the full length of the house. We got the beds set up for our first night in the new house. Debbie took us to the Brewery for dinner. We all slept well in Debbie's new house. The first thing I did, Friday morning, was to walk to Starbucks for my morning coffee. We then started unpacking all the boxes. Nancy and Debbie stocked shelves and I flattened the cardboard boxes and took care of disposing all of the packing paper. We had to make several runs back to the condo to use the condo's trash bins. We also made several trips to Home Depot and other stores to get wall hangers and other hardware needed to move into a home. Friday night we had dinner with Debbie's friend Jena at an Italian restaurant. Saturday we continued putting things away. We got a big surprise Saturday morning when Missy and AJ showed up. It was good to see them. Missy helped with the setup. For dinner a friend of Debbie's brought over enchiladas. We all sat around Debbie's dining room table and had the first evening meal in the new house. Debbie opened a bottle of wine and we all drank to her new house. It was nice. Sunday was kind of an easy day. We continued unpacking and did make several runs to Costco and Home Depot. For dinner we had some pinwheel sandwiches from Costco. Monday morning and Missy and AJ were up early and left for LA before 0800. Nancy and Debbie kept unpacking and I ran errands. Nancy and I bought Debbie a new TV for her bedroom. We bought it at Costco. Monday night we finished the pinwheel sandwiches. Tuesday we hung several pictures. We had lunch at a cafe that specialized in French dip sandwiches. The place was crowded with Apple engineers and technicians. The sandwiches were very good. For dinner we had Nancy's world famous scrambled eggs. Wednesday and Debbie has to go back to work. Nancy and I head to the airport at 0830. Our flight to Chicago was smooth. When we got to Chicago we found out that our flight to GR was cancelled. UA gave us a list of hotels that offered discount rates to distressed travelers. We stayed at the Wyndham in Glenview, IL. Thursday morning we get up at 0500 and take the shuttle to the airport. We arrived in GR at 0900. I spent the rest of the morning running errands. In the afternoon GRapids Irrigation stopped by and winterized our sprinkler system. Nancy had to work at the Gardens in the evening so I finished the pot pie left over from Nancy's Book Club. Friday morning and Nancy and I are back to normal. We both went to the MAC. I had to drive because it rained all day. Kim brought Ms P back home. In the afternoon Nancy and I headed to Costco. We bought a chicken for dinner. Friday night was a quiet night watching TV. Saturday morning I get up and ride my bike to Bill's. I was going to have their oatmeal but I was so hungry I had the pancake breakfast. After breakfast I rode the bike around Reeds Lake. Around 1100 I started cutting the grass. It had not been cut in two weeks but it was not too long. I did not edge or trim today. Ms P wore herself out chasing balls. Nancy also worked in the yard trimming flowers and getting ready for winter. I placed some mulch over the rose bushes. I took a shower and then a short nap. I got up in time to see the UM/MSU game. This game brings back memories of my youth when Mom, UM, and Dad, MSU, would harass each other about the game. My Mom was a real football fan and the type of UM grad that make MSU fans grit their teeth. I was glad UM was able to win. We finished the chicken for dinner and we each had a glass of wine. Tonight we will watch some TV before turning in.

Sunday october 7, 2012

Sunday and of course we are going swimming. Nancy is still not 100% so she just swam 30 minutes. I swam 1500 yards. After swimming we headed to Meijer's for supplies. I filled up the Taurus and gas was $3.89. Nancy fixed her world famous poached eggs for breakfast. After breakfast I took my afternoon nap. I spent most of the afternoon getting ready for my departure tomorrow for CA. Nancy was getting ready to print my boarding pass when she realized that I was leaving at 6 PM not 6 AM. We had to change flights. I am now leaving at 0800 and will be in San Francisco at noon. Air travel is amazing despite all the hang-ups. Seven hours to travel over 2,000 miles is amazing. Ms P and I did take a walk to deliver some neighborhood dues to the OHNA's treasurer. Nancy fixed butternut squash soup and a turkey sandwich for dinner tonight. We watched 60 Minutes and then headed upstairs at 2100.

Saturday October 6, 2012

It was cold and gloomy when I started pedaling to Bill's. I thought it was too cold to rain. I had an oatmeal breakfast. Instead of going home I decided to ride around Reeds Lake. I experienced a very light rain. However, the rain was light enough that I thought the grass would be dry enough to cut by 1300. I was right. I started cutting at 1330 and was done by 1630. Ms P was out with me the entire. time. She seems to like the cooler weather because she was full of energy. After a quick shower I finished packing for my trip to Debbie's. At 1720 Nancy and I headed out to Licaris a pizza place on Knapp Avenue. We met the Namey's. The food was good. After dinner we came back to our house and Nancy served ice cream w/strawberries, cookies and coffee. We spent an enjoyable two hour talking. We were both in bed by 2200. Today was the first time since April that we had to turn the heat on. I got my 30 in today did you?

Friday October 5, 2012

Ms P and I went out at 0530 and I got up to do my calisthenics at 0700. Today I followed my Friday routine. I was going to wear the pants I got from Fitzgerald's last night but the pants were too long. I marked the length I wanted and put the pants in my backpack. The MAC was not very crowded today. I was disappointed in my time for the 1.5 mile run. It took 16 minutes. I think when I get back from CA that I will try running on a treadmill. I can better control my pace. I want to run a 10' mile. After the MAC I stopped at 53rd bank to cash a check. I then took my pants into Fitzgerald's to get the legs shortened. I had my coffee and read the papers at Breton Village. I did not get home until 1330. As soon as I got home Nancy and I, including Ms P, headed to the Woodland Animal Hospital to inspect their kennel. We took Ms P inside with us. I visited the kennel last week but I wanted Nancy to see it before we signed Ms P up. We make a tentative booking for Ms P over Thanksgiving. We then headed to Costco so I could pick up a prescription. I had a hot dog for lunch. I did take a short nap this afternoon. For dinner we finished the lasagna that Nancy had fixed for my sister. We watched some TV before heading upstairs at 2200.

Thursday October 4, 2012

October 4 and today is Lucas's seventh birthday. Happy Birthday Lucas. It rained nearly all night. I took Ms P out at 0500 but she did not want to get wet. Everyone slept in until about 0800 this morning. Nancy fixed her world famous scrambled eggs for Helen and Don. The rain stopped just before Helen and Don left at 1000. I got on my bike and headed to the MAC. Today I did not do the tri. I just swam 1,000 yards. I got to the Kava House about 1200. The DFP continues it coverage of the corruption trial of Detroit's ex mayor. I cannot believe all the alleged things the mayor and his buddies did to rip off the city. The WSJ said that Romney won the debate. I don't think his winning will influence the outcome of the election. I found an article in the WSJ about the cost of getting minerals out of Afghanistan very interesting. The cost of building a RR might be greater than the value of the minerals. In 1966 I worked on a study on getting copper out of Tanzania. Charles McCandless Consultants, my employer, had a contract with the Stanford Research Institute to provide cost estimates for building a road to carry copper to the Port of Dar es Salaam. We also investigated the cost of building a RR. It was a very interesting project. In fact McCandless asked me if I would be interested in going to Tanzania for a year to further study the alternatives. I asked if I could take Nancy and Debbie. I came home and asked Nancy if she would want to go. She said yes. Next day I told my boss and he said great. However, the next day my boss said the SRI folks said I could not take my family. I said no family no deal. The sun came out about noon and temperature was 74 when I left the Kava House. After a quick lunch I took Ms P around the block. I then got in the C2 and headed to the Vets. Ms P was out of heartworm and flea medicine. I also made an appointment for her annual physical in November. The kids toilet is acting up. I stopped a Rylee's to see what it would cost to get a new operating system would cost. I started thinking why fix an old toilet when we should be considering a new one. I came home and told Nancy my thoughts and she said that we had already agreed on putting in all new fixtures in the room. I must have selective memory. Tonight we are going to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. Friday at 2000: Dinner at GLS was great. On our way home we stopped at the bank to get some money for Kim, the cleaning lady, who comes tomorrow. I also stopped at Fitzgerald's to pick up a pair of pants that was being altered. We watched some TV before heading upstairs.

Wednesday October 3, 2012

Today is Breakfast Club. It was sprinkling when I left for BC. Today's speaker is the Kent County Drain Commission. I have to introduce the speaker. BC was not very well attended today. It is disappointing because the food was good, scrambled egg and French toast, and so was the speaker. I stopped at the Kava House so I could read the WSJ. I did not have time to read the DFP. Tonight is the big debate. I do not know if I will watch it. I have already made up my mind. Did you know that I watch the first debates on TV, Kennedy/Nixon. Nancy's cold is not getting any better. She had a tough night. When I got home from the Kava House I took a quick nap. My sister arrived about 1230. Nancy is working at the Gardens this afternoon. Helen drove her pickup so I had to clean the C2 before going downtown. The three of us visited the GR Art Museum and then the Bob. Don's knees were giving out so Helen and I visited some more venues while Don had a coffee. We visited the GR Public Museum, Gerald Ford Museum and saw the displays on the Gillette Pedestrian Bridge. We walked through the Amway and the DeVos convention center. On our way back to the Bob to pick up Don we saw the displays in the 54 Monroe Building. Helen and I walked for three hours. We were able to see six of the top ten entries. Nancy was not yet home when we arrived so I got Helen a glass of wine and Don and I had a beer. Nancy fixed lasagna and a salad for dinner. It was very good. After dinner we retired to the living room for conversation. At 2100 we all headed upstairs. It was a pleasant day.

Tuesday October 2, 2012

Tuesday, 1530: Today is another beautiful fall day. The trees are a brilliant red the temperature is in the 60s and not a cloud in the sky. We have had spectacular weather the past 10 days. However, it is suppose to rain tomorrow the day my sister is coming down to see Art Prize. Today being Tuesday is a tri day. I have changed my swimming strokes so I alternate between the crawl and breast stroke. It has not changed my time for 1,000 yards. It is still 30 minutes. It is very hard to figure out what to wear because it is in the 40s when I leave for the MAC and in the high 60s when head to the Kava House. Layers seem to be the answer. I can always take a layer off and put it in my backpack. I spent almost 90 minutes reading both the WSJ and DFP. The WSJ dedicates a lot of space to the economic trouble in the EU. Everyone thinks that it will be at least three years before things in Europe turn around. The DFP had several articles on Detroit's ex mayors corruption trial. Detroit also has another problem because the folks running the wastewater plant (sewage plant if you are over 50) are on strike. The workers are mad because a recent report recommended major reductions in staff at the plant. Does the plant need a man to put on horse shoes when the plant has no horses. After a quick lunch I walked Ms P around the block. I then started cleaning the guest bathroom to get is clean for Helen and Don. Before dinner I will make a quick trip to D&W to get some beer for me and Don. We plan on a light dinner and then we will watch the news and read a paper copy of the GRP. Tonight we will watch the NCIS shows. We had no problem with the NCIS shows but fell asleep watching Vegas. Bummer.

Monday October 1, 2012

Ms P and I both answered natures call at 0430. I finally got up at 0700. Nancy has to meet a Vendor this morning so she is not going to the MAC. Her cold is just a bit better. I am still only going 2/3rds on the exercises. My cold is better but I do not want to overdo it. I read the WSJ, DFP and drank my coffee at Breton Village today. Both the WSJ and DFP had articles on the referendums that are on our ballot. All of the referendums were placed on the ballots by special interests. I hate referendums and will vote against them all. The family that owns the Ambassador Bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario has been running ads against a new bridge to Canada that the Canadians sorely want. The ads are outright lies. I am surprised that all the parties that want the bridge have not taken a stronger stand. The big three, our governor, the Detroit and Michigan Chamber of Commerce and all the construction trade unions want the new bridge. It is really frustrating. I had my coffee at Breton Village so I could get home earlier. However, I walked by Fitzgerald's and saw a pair of pants that I liked. I bought the pants. I got home at 1300 and after a quick lunch Nancy and I headed downtown to visit more Art Prize Venues. Spent about 3 hours visiting several new sites. Downtown was crowded and we ran into several old neighbors. We also saw Missy's old hearing teacher, Ms Bittrick, and Debbie's French teacher, Ms Boyd. We got home at 1700. We had a light dinner and then watched the news. No paper copy of the GRP today so I read it on my computer. The quality of reporting has declined big time since the GRP eliminated delivery on 4 days. We watched the only decent show on Monday, Major Crimes, before going to bed.

Sunday September 30, 2012

Another nice day is in store for GR. I cannot believe that it is the last day of September already. Nancy said she is not feeling much better but she still wanted to go to the MAC. After a short swim she was going to spend some time in the steam room. Sweat the cold! I swam 1,000 and so did Nancy. We ended up at Meijer's. Gas was $3.87 today. Nancy fixed her world famous scrambled eggs for breakfast. After reading a few sections of the GRP I headed upstairs to take a nap. Nancy did the same. It is now 1437 and I am going to walk Ms P around the block and then take a 2 mile walk. Stay tuned. Mission accomplished. The trees are slowly turning colors. The reds are really brilliant this year. Nancy fixed big juicy hamburgers for dinner. I also had a bowl of tomato soup. We finished reading the GRP and then watched some TV before heading upstairs.

Saturday September 30, 2012

Another beautiful fall day is in store for GR. We have also been having very clear nights with a bright full moon. This morning I broke my vow and instead of having Bill's oatmeal I had the All American breakfast. It was real good and I am sure had at least 1500 calories. On my pedal through Aquinas College this morning I saw that they were setting up for an Alumni (us?) homecoming. They even had a big beer tent set up. It is a great day for any outdoor activity. When I got home the grass was still a little wet so I walked Ms P around the block. I started cutting about 1130. Nancy was also working in the yard cutting back some flowers. I think that I must have spent 50% of my time throwing the ball to Ms P. I was done with the yard work by 1500. Nancy was also done with her work. She had filled five yard bags. After my shower I watched some of the MSU game in bed. Well I tried to watch but I think I slept for an hour. Nancy announced about 1700 that I had given her my cold. She was experiencing a sore throat. What else could you expect after 47 years, we share. We stayed home and had pizza for dinner. I spent most of the evening watching football. I did take time to get in a mile walk.

Friday September 28, 2012

This morning I declared my cold over. Ms P and I got up at 0500 and everything was right with the world. I did some calisthenics at home before getting on my bike and heading to the MAC. I decided not to do any aerobics today to make sure my prognosis was correct. I did for the first time in years spend some time in the steam room. The DFP continued it coverage of the ex mayor of Detroit's corruption trial. It reads like a movie script. When I got home I had a quick lunch and then Ms P and I walked around the block. Today is a sunny day with temps in the high 60s. A neighbor called me to tell me that the City of GR had installed a new street light in the OHN. This streetlight would replace our existing concrete lights. It is suppose to be a fiberglass replica. In fact it is now 1610 and I think Ms P and I will walk over and see the new pole. Ms P and I just walked over to see the pole. My first thought was that the pole was too tall. However, I have been told that the pole is only 1' taller than existing. Did you know that today is my 1353 post. I hope that everyone is getting their 30 minutes outside each day. Nancy and I had dinner at the Sun Dance. We both had salads. I watched some new shows on TV before going to bed at 2200.

Thursday September 27, 2012

My cold has now gone from a 5 hankie cold to a 3 hankie cold. I slept in until 0810 this morning. No exercise for me today. I had an oatmeal breakfast at Bill's this morning. After breakfast I came home and Ms P and I took a leisurely walk around the block. I did some computer work and then at 1230 I headed to Dr Mary Yurko's office to have her put some liquid nitrogen on a spot on my nose. I was in and out of the office in 20 minutes. When I got home Nancy was still out running errands. I had a quick lunch and then we all got in the Taurus and headed to Costco. Nancy needed to get a prescription filled. I walked around and ended up buying a thermal long sleeve tee shirt and some wool long underwear bottoms. Every once in a while Costco has some men's clothing on sale at a great price. I just finished reading the DFP. The DFP concentrated this morning's paper on the trial of the ex mayor and the hunt for Jimmy Hoffa's body. Tonight we are having dinner at Great Lakes Shipping. We read a paper copy of the GRP which was full or Art Prize stories. Tonight a new Person of Interest was as was a new show called Elementary. Person of Interest was ok but Elementary was not. We had a nearly full moon tonight. Lately we have been having very clear evening skies.

Wednesday September 26, 2012

Just a quick note: Today the SS checks come in so I want all you working folks to keep working so the checks keep coming. I know that you working folks will not have SS when you reach 65 but we seniors don't care. I hate to say it but I think that is the prevailing attitude among seniors. Whatever happened to sharing! As the evening and morning progressed my cold became worse. I now have a 5 hankie cold. Today I will take it easy all day. At 0830 I got in the C2 and headed to Bill's. I had their oatmeal. The DFP continues writing about the trial of Detroit's ex mayor. I thought what the Feds are claiming the ex mayor and friends did was only in the movies. The WSJ is really hung up on the problems in Greece. If I lived in the Euro zone I would vote to expel Greece. After breakfast I headed to Meijer's. I bought some orange juice and apples. I need fruits and juice to fight the cold. I also filled up the C2. Gas was $3.99 per gallon. Nancy is working at the Gardens this afternoon. I took a hour nap. It is now 1500 and I think I will walk Ms P around the block. After a light dinner I read old issues of NG and watched some TV. We were all upstairs by 2200.

Tuesday September 26, 2012

Another beautiful fall day in GR. On my bike ride to the MAC I was surprised at how fast the trees are turning. I did the tri today and although I felt tired my time in the 1,000 yard swim was near my PB, 29'. Today I spent too much time talking to other old folks. I did not get to the Kava House until after noon. I read both the WSJ and DFP. The DFP has been covering the corruption trial of the ex mayor of Detroit. There are stories of bag men carry $90,000 in cash to Texas to give to the ex mayor. Also on trial is the best friend of the mayor, a contractor who paid kickbacks to his honor, the mayor's father and the ex manager of the Detroit Water and Sewer Organization, a major source of a lot of the ill gotten money. I had a quick lunch and then started waiting for the plumber to show up. We have a leaking valve in the basement. While waiting I got out the C2 and made a quick trip to the PO and then to the Harmony bar to get my growler filled. It took the plumber about 45' to fix our problem. He had to drain all the cold water lines. I have been feeling a cold coming on so after taking Ms P on a walk I sat on the front stoop and let the warm sun beat on me. Ms P did the same. Nancy fixed a shrimp dish for dinner and it was good. Tonight starts the new TV season so we watched NCIS and NCIS LA. I also watched the new Vegas show. I slept in the other bedroom because I don't want Nancy to get my cold. My nose is running and the throat is sore. I think I have my annual change of season cold. Bummer.

Monday September 24, 2012

We had frost warning up last night. At 0400 Ms P wanted to get under some covers because I think she was cold. I got up at 0700 and performed my Monday routine. I bundled up for my ride to the MAC. Despite the early morning cold today is a bright sunny fall day. I did my normal Kava House routine. After the Kava House I had a quick lunch and then got in the Taurus and headed to Master Cleaners. I had all my wool winter clothes dry cleaned. I had to take a check because they do not take plastic. After the cleaners Nancy and I headed downtown to view some more Art Prize exhibits. We started at the Bob, a local restaurant. They had exhibits inside and outside. We then spent the next 2.5 hours walking around and looking at all the displays. Downtown was crowded with folks viewing Art Prize. We each had a TV dinner for our evening meal. It had been awhile since I had a frozen dinner and it was pretty good. We watched some TV before going to bed.

Sunday September 24, 2012

Sunday morning and we are up and ready to go swimming. We got to the MAC at 0750 and the Manager let us in early. I thought I would set a PB for the 1500 yard swim today but my time was the same as it has been all year. So much for instinct. My contact started misbehaving during my shower. Instead of going straight to Meijer's we headed home so I could remove the contact. We took Ms P to Meijer's with us. Gas today was $3.88 per gallon. Our larder was pretty empty so we bought a lot of groceries. Nancy fixed her world famous scrambled eggs for breakfast. I did take my afternoon nap. After the nap I stored all my summer clothes and brought the winter clothes upstairs. I watched part of the Lions game until a Titans player stole the ball from a receiver and ran for a touchdown putting the Lions two TDs behind. Nancy told me the game went into overtime. We are having sloppy joes for dinner tonight. After dinner we will take a mile walk. We will watch some TV and read the GRP. Monday: and that folks is exactly what we did.

Saturday September 22, 2012

Today is the first day of fall, the Autumnal Equinox. I checked for GR and today we have 12h08' of daylight. I figure this is close enough. Nancy no longer goes to the MAC on Saturday so we all slept in until 0814 this morning. It rained last night and the temperature was in the high 40s this morning. I got out my winter bike helmet. I got to Bill's kind of late this morning and had trouble finding a table. I tried their corn beef hash with eggs this morning. It was good. Not much in the WSJ. It was bright sunshine when I rode to Bill's but when I left it looked like rain. I took a detour on my pedal home today and rode around Reeds Lake. Nancy was busy this morning cleaning closets. She found several nice fountain pens that have never been used, complete with ink cartridges. I will start using them. She also found a 1966 rent payment for 875 Woodside Road in Redwood City, CA. We paid $165 per month for a 2 bedroom furnished apartment. Nancy also had prepared two packages for the grandkids. I walked over to the post office and mailed them. I spent a good part of the afternoon putting away all the outdoor furniture. I also took off all the downstairs screens and stored them in the basement. I topped off the afternoon with a 1.12 mile walk. I know the exact distance because I wore my GPS. We had dinner at Panera Bread. Nancy had the chicken noodle soup and I had a soup and tuna fish sandwich. Nothing like a good tuna fish. We all took a one mile evening walk. Nancy purchased tickets to SF and I watched the first half of the UM/Notre Dame football game. It was pretty grim. I was upstairs by 2230.

Friday September 21, 2012

Even though I am retired I am glad today is Friday. I did not want to work out today but I persevered. Rowing on the Concept 2 must be a good exercise because I sometimes, like Friday, dread getting on the machine. I rowed for 15 minutes. I am usually breathing heavily when I finish. I think I will put my heart rate monitor on next week. During the winter I will row 5k. I should row 5k in about 22'. I pedaled to the MAC and had to take a different route because of construction on Breton. My time in the 1.5 mile run also reflects my lack of enthusiasm. I ran it in 15'50". For the first time this fall the Kava House had the heat on. It felt good. I read the WSJ and DFP and found no article that made me mad or happy. When I got home Kim was busy cleaning the house. Nancy and I talked to Kim about her schedule and if she was willing to take care of Ms P while we are gone in Oct and Nov. We told her that her daughter, a student at Aquinas, could stay in our house while we are gone. Ms P would like that. Nancy and I loaded Ms P in the Taurus and headed to Costco. I was out of peanut butter and Nancy needed some lotion and paper products. I also had a hot dog. After Costco I took a short nap and then at 1545 we headed up north to Centennial Movie Theater. Hal Horling and I saw the new Bourne movie and Karen Horling and Nancy saw the new Tommy L Jones and Meryl Streep movie. After the movie we went to Carino's for dinner. It is an Italian restaurant located within walking distance of the movie. It was a great way to spend a rainy, cool fall afternoon.

Thursday September 20, 2012

I really slept in today. Nancy had to take Ms P out. When I finally got up at 0707 I did some calisthenics and then got in the C2 and headed to St Mary's Lab to get some more lab tests done. I must have arrived at the right time because I was in and out in less than 10 minutes. After the Lab I headed to the MAC. Today I used the MAC's rowing machine and set a PB. I did the 2k in 8'50". I also had a PB in my swim. I did the 1,000 yards in 28'50". Did I have the good times because I did not ride my bike? Today I had my coffee at Breton Village. After reading today's WSJ I concluded the world is not a happy place. Between the unrest in the Middle East, Japan and China arguing over some small islands, the US elections, and the European banking mess I wonder if maybe we should take a time out. I finished out my morning activities by stopping at Macatawa Bank to take care of a CD that had expired. I am getting 0.25% interest on the new CD. Thank you Ben. After a quick lunch I took Ms P around the block and then walked to Gaslight Village to do some more banking. Tonight Nancy and I are going to Great Lakes Shipping for dinner. I will read the GRP and then watch some TV. My favorite show "A Person of Interest" is now on at 2200. Bummer!

Wednesday September 19, 2012

Today I had breakfast club. It was pitch black when I headed downtown at 0645. It was also cool enough, mid 40s, for me to wear a sport coat. Today's speaker talked about the Shriner Hospitals for Children. He has been active in the group for over 30 years. Next BC meeting I get to introduce the speaker. The speaker will be the Kent County's Drain Commissioner. After BC I stopped by the Kava House to read the WSJ. Did Mitt Romney shoot himself in the foot? I agree with his statements but I think he could have used the opportunity to say that under his administration he will get the economy running so all the folks dependant on the Government could get a job. The cool morning has me thinking Fall. When I got home I took all my wool pants, wool sweaters and winter coats to the dry cleaners. After the cleaners I stopped by F. David Barney and picked up my new wool pants. I asked Bruce, who has been selling me clothes for over 20 years, how often I should get wool clothes dry cleaned. His answer was never. I respect his opinion but I will get my wool clothes cleaned at least once a year. I spent three hours cutting the lawn. The grass was not very long but it still needed to be cut. Ms P was full of energy today so I threw my arm out throwing the ball to her. It must be the cool weather. Nancy is working at the Gardens this afternoon. We will have a light dinner and then take our mile walk. We did both.

Tuesday September 18, 2012

The wind blew and we had some thunder but very little rain last night. The temperature did drop to the low 40s this morning. I bundled up for my pedal to the MAC. In fact I was thinking that it is cool enough that I should get out my winter bike helmet. The winter helmet is actually a snow boarders helmet. I did the tri today and I had to whole pool to myself. I have been having problems with the IRS lately. They keep sending letters to 1555 Mackinaw. The letter is addressed to S. Gorham (or something like that). Both the name and SS# are not even close to me. I keep sending the letters back saying the cat does not live here. Yesterday we got a registered letter from the IRS. We were not here so they left a pick up notice. I stopped at the PO and they said our mail carrier had it. When the carrier stopped at the house Nancy did not sign for it because the person the letter was address to did not live here. Remember the old song "Return to Sender"? Despite the cool weather it was a nice fall day. Ms P and I walked around the block and she seemed full of energy. Must be the cool weather. At 1600 Nancy and I headed downtown to the GR Public Museum to view some art prize entries. We walked around downtown and looked at a lot of art prize displays. Art Prize does not officially start until tomorrow but a lot of exhibits were on display. We had dinner at Ramona's Table in Gaslight Village tonight. Nancy has an OHNA Board meeting tonight. I will stay home and read the GRP and watch NCIS. 52 years ago I today, September 18, 1960, I wrote my mother a letter. I was in my last semester of classes at the UM. Bud Schram and I had rented a basement bedroom. I told Mom that it cost $7.50 per week. I also had sent my Mother my last paycheck from the Vermont Highway Department and told her to deposit it soon or I would be overdrawn. As I recollect my last semester I was only carrying 12 hours.

Monday September 17, 2012

We are getting near the Equinox. Sunrise today is 0725 and sunset at 1948. Today is suppose to be our last warm day, mid 70s. The low temperature this evening is suppose to be in the high 30s. Today I got up with an alarm set for 0707. I did my calisthenics and then loaded up the bike and headed to Riverside Park. I pedaled to Rockford and back, a distance of 23 miles. It took me 2 hours. I stopped at the Kava House to read the WSJ. I could not get to the DFP because my meter was expired. The WSJ had a great article on folks my age that were raised to save money. The mantra was put your money in the bank and let it draw interest. The theory was that compound interest would let your funds keep up with inflation. The Feds are now pushing a policy that would outrage my Grandparents. The frugal are being punished and the reckless rewarded. After a quick lunch I drove to Meijer's to purchase some apples. I also stopped at the bank to get $50 in dollar coins. I love the dollar coin and think the $1 bill should be eliminated. A new store has opened in Gaslight Village. It is called Great Lakes Woolens and they sell Woolrich products. I liked their selection but who can buy a wool product when the temperature is in the mid 70s. Tonight we will have a light dinner. If it isn't raining we will take a 1 mile walk. Tuesday: We did have a light dinner. We took our evening one mile walk. It was a nice fall evening. We watched "Major Crimes" on TV before heading upstairs.

Sunday September 16, 2012

Ms P and I went out at 0430. It was pitch black. It was still dark at 0700. The days they are getting shorter. Today is swim day so we grab our gear and head to the MAC. We both swam 1500 yards. Swimming is the one activity that Nancy and can do together. In fact Nancy is a better swimmer than I am. She has a beautiful stroke. We are not going to Meijer's today because we have been invited to a brunch at the Moleski's. The brunch started at 1030 and we were right on time. Linda Moleski had fixed an egg casserole. The menu included champagne, the casserole, ham, fruit and assorted bread products. It was a great brunch. When I got home I took my Sunday afternoon nap. After the nap I walked over to the USPO to mail a letter. It is another great fall day. Sun, blue sky and temperatures in the mid 70s. Nancy is fixing hot dogs and beans for dinner tonight. We will take our mile walk and then I will read the GRP and watch the Lions on TV. Monday PM: We did take our 1 mile walk. I read the GRP but did not watch the Lions. In fact it is now 1654 and I still don't know the score.

Saturday September 15, 2012

51 years ago on this day and date I became an Ensign in the USN. I graduated from Navy OCS located in Newport, RI. My Mom, Dad and Sister attended the ceremony. I can still remember the day. Today I got up at 0700. Nancy is sleeping in because she is not taking any Saturday classes at the MAC. I got on my bike and pedaled to Bill's for an oatmeal breakfast. I read the WSJ. Lately my schedule has not given me enough time for reading the DFP. How can a retired person have a busy schedule? I wish the WSJ would forget about banking in Europe and the USA election and report more on business stories. Since the Feds want us invest our cash in the stock market I want more information on where to put our money. I would prefer as low risk investment as possible. Right now a 3% return seems great. Our CDs are paying less than 0.4%. After breakfast I stopped at Ms P's vet to get a tour of their kennel. All three kennels I have visited were clean and their staff were very dedicated. The costs were comparable. When I got home I loaded up the kayak on the C2 and headed to Bruce's Bayou located on the Grand River almost to Grand Haven. It was a beautiful day to be on the water. We had a bright blue sky and pleasant temperatures. I saw several Sand Hill Cranes. They are a pretty bird. After about an hour of paddling I beached the kayak and started chewing on some trail mix. I got out the cell and called Debbie. Debbie told me the good news that she had just purchased a house in San Jose. She was very excited. We talked about 20 minutes and Debbie filled me in on her purchase and very busy upcoming schedule. I hurried home to tell Nancy the news. The GR Circle Theater is presenting a play called "The Great American Trailer Park" at Aquinas College. The play is a musical. After 1700 the tickets for the evening play are 1/2 price. At 1650 I got on my bike and pedaled to Aquinas. The play was sold out but they had one remaining set of side by side seating. The catch was one of the seats was an obstructed view. I bought the tickets. The play was indeed sold out. It was a very funny play and we enjoyed the music. The obstructed view was not too much of a problem. There was no intermission so we were home by 2130.

Friday September 14, 2012

As I mentioned yesterday it rained almost all night. It was a gentle rain so Ms P slept through it. The temperature was in the low 50s this morning. After the morning calisthenics I loaded the bike up and headed to Millennium Park. We had a bright blue sky and sunshine. The leaves are just starting to turn so the ride was very pleasant. I rode 18 miles in 1h36'. After the ride I stopped at the Kava House to read my papers. In addition to stories on the middle east the WSJ had several articles on actions yesterday by the Fed. I don't think their action will have any impact. The first thing I did when I got home was to walk Ms P around the block. I had a quick lunch and then took the Taurus to get it washed. Nancy and I are taking off in November for Viet Nam. We will need a kennel for Ms P part of the time we are gone. I stopped by "Camp Bow Wow" and got a tour of the facility. My next stop was the Kentwood Animal Hospital which also has a kennel. The folk gave me a tour. I did not notice much difference between the kennels. Tomorrow I will stop at Ms P Vet to tour their kennel. Tonight Nancy and I are going to Forest Hill Inn for dinner. It has been awhile since we have been to FHI. We were surprised that FHI was crowded. I had a club sandwich and Nancy had a salad. We watched some TV before turning in.