December 21, 2023

 Thursday December 21, 2023

Blog time 1610 December 24, 2023

Today is the winter solstice, shortest day of the year.

Up this morning at 0730, yogurt breakfast before heading to MVP.

MVP was jammed this morning.  Folks must be trying to get a head start on weight loss.  Most folks put on mega pounds during the Christmas season.

Today is another unseasonably warm day.  I checked last year’s blog and it was cold with snow.  We were also getting ready to sell the house on Tahoe.

After MVP we drove to Panera for our morning coffee.  This morning after coffee we stopped at Costco and Meijer’s to check on Nancy’s medicine.  Pills not ready until Dec 24 at Meijer’s and December 26 at Costco’s.  Our 2024 goal is to use only Meijer’s for medicines.

This afternoon it was warm enough for a short bike ride. Followed, of course, by a short nap.

Attended Happy Hour, followed by dinner in main dining room.  A lot of folks have left for the holidays. The dining area was empty.

December 20, 2023

Wednesday December 20, 2023

Blog time 1615 on Friday December 22

We followed our standard routine today.

Up at 0730.  Fixed oatmeal with Blueberries.  Nancy never eats breakfast.  

Another mild day in GR.  Temps will reach 40.  I cannot remember a warmer December in Michigan.  Global warming?

We usually head to MVP between 0830 and 0900.  Today is Nancy's swim day and I stick to my weekday calisthenics.

For health reasons Nancy no longer drives.

MVP is a little over a mile from our apartment.  After my workout I shower and apply dry skin lotion.  My big problem this time of year is keeping my hands well lubricated.  Aveeno does not work.  My best luck has been with cetaphil.  I apply at least 5 times daily.

After our workout we headed to Panera.  Ordered two scones (1 for each of us) and coffee.  We both spend some time reading on our iPads. After Panera we run errands.

Rest of day's activities:

Nap, Happy Hour, Dinner and then some TV.  Tonight we watched the last episode of "The Night Manager".

I finish my day reading the WSJ.  

This and that:

I still cannot figure out why so many American do not back Israeli.  Clearly Hamas is responsible for the military action.

The Super performance of the stock market is a surprise.

The lack of support by some Americans for Ukraine surprises me.

The US Navy is in bad shape.  Congress has to make a major effort to bring it up world class.

AHS has a great hockey team.  Basketball not so much.

  

   

December 19, 2023

 Tuesday December 19, 2023

Blog time 1645 on Thursday

Today we followed our normal Tuesday routine.

MVP, Panera and a quick stop at Meijer’s.

This afternoon I took a bike ride.

Dinner in the main dining room.

Watched an episode of “Shetland” before turning in.

December 18, 2023

 Monday December 18, 2023

Blog time 1630 on Thursday the 21st.

Start of new week.

Up, dressed and headed to MVP.

Nancy swam and I did my calisthenics.

After showering we headed Panera for our morning coffee.

My memory is foggy.  I cannot remember what we did today.

I do know that the news would mention, Hamas and Israel, Taylor Swift and the chatter from Trump and Biden.

We attended Happy Hour and had dinner in the main dining room.  Watched some TV.  Nancy headed to bed first.  I finished the evening reading the WSJ.

December 17, 2023

 Sunday December 17, 2023

Blog time 1625 on Thursday Dec 21

Sunday:  we attended the 0915 service at Trinity.

This afternoon Nancy and I attended her book club’s Christmas party at the Moleski’s.

In attendance were Linda and Tom Moleski, Tim Mask, Connie Cady and Bob and Nancy.  Linda had chicken and beef, with grilled vegetables.  Chocolate cake for dessert.  It was all very good.

This will be our last book club event.  Nancy resigned at the last meeting.

We were home at 1600.  Light dinner before watching some TV.

December 16, 2023

 Saturday December 16, 2023

Blog time 1600 on Thursday 21 Dec.  Yes I am behind.

As usual we had Saturday breakfast at “The Gathering Place”.  The restaurant was jammed.

 We had our usual fare.  Omelette for Nancy and oatmeal for me.  After breakfast we took our Saturday ride north to Ada.  Ended up at Panera for our free coffee.

Another dark day.  Lately we have morning temps in low 30. Afternoon temps might reach 40.

This afternoon I took a bike ride.  It is always great to get on bike.  I wear lined pants and wool biking jacket that Helen got me and a visibility jacket.  My standard route is 7 miles. It takes an hour.

Light dinner tonight. We watched an episode or “Reacher” before turning in.

December 15, 2023

 Friday December 15, 2023

Thank God it is Friday.

This week wore me out.

We followed our normal Friday routine.  Nancy swam and I did calisthenics.

We had our morning coffee at Panera.

After coffee we made a quick run to Meijer’s for supplies.

Today we are not attending Cook Valley’s holiday festival.  The main menu item is salmon and Nancy does not like fish.  I am also tired of all the extra wine and sweets.  For dinner we drove to Cascade Road House for a light sandwich.  

We continue to watch the “Night Manager”.  Following the show Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  It must be end of year because I found the news boring.

December 14, 2023

 Thursday December 14, 2023

Blog time 1300 on Friday sitting at desk in office.

As usual up at 0730.  Nancy and I dressed and headed to MVP.  Treadmill and stationary bike for Nancy and I did calisthenics and 10 minutes on stationary bike.

After MVP we drove to Panera.  Ordered coffee and croissant.  Spent an hour reading the morning papers.  Headed straight home after Panera.

I took a short walk followed by a nap.  Tonight we attended day 4 of the “7 Days of Christmas” festival.  We attended the Cello concert followed by dinner in the main dining room.

Tonight’s menu included Brie & Apple Chicken, Tennessee Cornbread dressing, Tender Broccolini and Mississippi Mud Pie for Dessert.

Tonight we watched and episode of “Hidden Assets”.  After Nancy headed to bed and of course I read the WSJ.

December 13, 2023

 Wednesday December 13, 2023

Blog time 1600 sitting at desk in office.

Up at usual time dressed had a yogurt breakfast before heading to MVP.  Temp was 27 and sunny.  Sun is always great.

I did my calisthenics and Nancy went swimming.  Showered before heading to Panera.  Lately we have been getting scones instead of croissants on days Nancy goes swimming.  

Headed straight home after Panera.  I took a short walk before lunch.  Lunch today was yogurt with granola.  Finished the afternoon with a short nap.

Cook Valley has been holding a “7 Days of Christmas” festival.  Tonight was day 3.  It was called a Grinchmas Party.  The event started at 1615 in the front foyer with cocktails and appetizers. At 1700 dinner was served.  Menu tonight “Roast Beef, Who Hash, with Grinch greens, and chocolate Babka Bread pudding.

After dinner we headed to our apartment. Tonight we watched an episode of “Shetland”.

Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

December 12, 2023

 Tuesday December 12, 2023

Over slept today. Did not get up until 0800.  Yogurt parfait for breakfast.  Drove to MVP for our morning workout. 

I did my weekday calisthenics and Nancy walked on treadmill and rode the stationary bike.  I showered, put on lotion and then Nancy and I drove to Panera.

This time of year my skin gets very dry, especially my hands.  We are going to buy a humidifier.  I sure hope that will help.

I am slowly getting over my Thanksgiving cold.  Called Debbie and she is also recovering.  

Temp in 20s this morning but by 1000 it has reached high 30s. We did see some sun today.

Missy texted us saying the boat club she belongs to had a fire.  Don’t know the extent of the damage.

Debbie despite her cold is enjoying retirement.  We will spend time at Debbie’s in January.  Look forward to some bike riding.

Cook Valley is having a “7 Days of Christmas” festival.  Last night was the 2nd night.  Nancy attended a string quartet concert.  At 1700 we had a great dinner with free wine.  The menu was “Smoked Bone-in Pork Chop with Lingonberry Braised Beans & Greens, Herbed Pesto, and Creamy Cheesy Polenta.  Chocolate Peacan Pie for dessert.  

We had dinner with the Moores.  The Moores lived on Gladstone before moving to Cook Valley.

After dinner we watched another episode of “Hidden Assets”.  Nancy then headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

December 11, 2023

 Monday December 11, 2023

Blog time 1550 sitting in office

Up this morning at my usual 0730

Fixed oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast

Left for MVP at 0900.

This morning Nancy swam and I did my weekday calisthenics.

MVP was not crowded. 

After MVP we drove to Panera for a cookie and scone.  The cookie today was free.  I read the Michigan papers and checked email.  

After Panera we headed straight home.  My cold is lingering on.  Took a nap.

Tonight we attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in the Main Dining Hall.  I had shrimp cocktail with coleslaw.

Tonight we watched a new show “Hidden Assets” on scorn.  I gave it an A-.

After the show Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  I am tired of reading about Hunter Biden.  I not to fond of reading about his father, Joe, either.

December 10, 2023

 Sunday December 10, 2023

Blog time 1230 on Monday Dec 11, sitting in office

Sunday morning up at 0730.  

Fixed a yogurt/parfait for breakfast.

We thought church would be crowded today.  However, most of the staff and church member were absent with the flu.  Nancy and I are slowly getting over our bout.

After church we took a drive.  Today we headed north on Pettis.  It was dark and gloomy with temps in high 30s but the farm houses along our route were decorated for Christmas.  Nancy liked the drive.

We stopped at Panera for coffee.  I took a long afternoon nap.  I did not go outside today but Nancy took a mile walk.

We had a very light dinner tonight.  Watched the “Night Manager” before turning in.

Missy called this evening.  We had a nice talk.  

Debbie is over her bout with flu.

December 9, 2023

 Saturday December 9, 2023

Blog time 1600 sitting in office.

Up at 0730. Quickly dressed and headed to “The Gathering Place” for breakfast.  The place was crowded.

Nancy had an Omelette with raisin toast. I had oatmeal w/scrambled egg and sourdough toast.

After breakfast we took a drive through Ada Village.  The improvements in Ada Village are impressive.

Stopped at Panera for our free coffee.

Nancy made a deposit at LMCU.

Stopped at Ace Hardware.  Purchased a padlock for Nancy’s use at MVP.  She lost her key on Friday so the staff cut her old lock.  I bought a can of WD40.

At home I put up our small Christmas Tree.  Nancy placed several bulbs.  It looks nice.

Today was unseasonably warm.  Temperature at 0800 was 51.  Good grief mid December.

For dinner tonight we drove to “Shepard’s Grill”.  I had the Lake Perch sandwich and Nancy ordered a hot dog.

At home we watched and episode of “Midsomer Murders”.  After Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  

December 8, 2023

Friday December 8, 2023

Blog time 1630 sitting in office.

Up this morning at 0730.  Headed to MVP.  Nancy swam and I did calisthenics. Another dark gloomy day.  Temps in 30s.

After MVP we drove to Panera for our morning coffee.  Nancy is alway hungry after her morning swim.  We each had a scone.

We ran a few errands before heading home.  This afternoon I took a short nap.

I called Debbie to see how she feeling.  We both caught a Thanksgiving cold and are slowly recovering.  Debbie gave a positive report. 

This evening we attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in dining room.  Tonight Nancy played Mexican Train.  I watched a WWII show on Netflix. After Mexican Train, Nancy went to bed I read the WSJ. 

 

December 7, 2023

Thursday December 7, 2023

Blog time 1600 on Friday the 8th.  Sitting in office.

Up at normal time, 0730.  No at home breakfast. We have to clear out fast because the cleaning crew comes this morning.

We drive to MVP.  Nancy does her treadmill and stationary bike and I do my calisthenics.  Shower and then head to Panera.  Today we did the Panera near our old condo.  We have some errands to run in that end of town.  

Tonight we are attending a Holiday Party at Meijer Gardens.  It is a semi formal affair.  That means I have to wear a tie.

I located my ties in our basement locker.  Also brought up a relatively unused sports coat.  

Nancy picked out a tie for me.  Nancy really looked great.  We should go our more often.  Left home at 1630.

A large crowd attended the party.  The Gardens was very festive.  Christmas trees from around the world decorated the place.  

The Gardens provided a great selection of food.  I tried the miniature lamb chops and fish and chips.  The dessert selection was also great.

I was surprised that we knew many folks.  Another surprise was I did not have any alcohol.  Don't like to drive at night after several glasses of wine.

We got home at 2130, Nancy headed to bed.  I stayed up and read the WSJ.

This and that:

I have lost interest in the upcoming election.  Why can't a nation of 300 million only have two old idiots running.  I will again vote for a third party candidate.

I have been following the reporting from the Ukraine and Israeli.

I sure hope Congress funds the war in Ukraine.  

I have been, until recently, a loyal GOP member.  However, the GOP in Michigan is run by idiots.  I now consider myself an Independent.

The weather continues to be dark and gloomy.  Temps in mid 30s.

Today is Pearl Harbor day.  Japan on this date in 1941 made a surprise attack on the Navy base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  I knew several Navy men who were stationed at PH on the day of the attack.  It was terrible.  

How many teenagers today know the story behind the Pearl Harbor attack.  It had a major impact on life in the USA.  

  

December 6, 2023

 Wednesday December 6, 2023

Blog time 1400, sitting in office

Today is an easy day for Bob and Nancy.  No MVP.

Headed straight to Panera for breakfast.  Nancy had a big sweet roll and I had yogurt parfait.  We read the morning news and enjoyed our coffee.

Today at 1100 Nancy is scheduled to have her Pacemaker checked.  We arrived on time.  The check took about 40 minutes. Everything ok.

This and that:

What is with the attacks on Jewish folks and business USA, especially by young people? It is clear to me that Hamas attacked Israeli. Young folks in USA think Israeli is to blame. They are very stupid about current affairs.  

The dark gloomy weather is getting to me.  Temps in 30s but no snow.

Debbie and my Thanksgiving colds are slowly getting better.

We attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in Main Dining room.  I had the catfish.  It was great.

Watched a show on Netflix.  It was about a blind girl who was skilled using a ham radio.  The show takes place in Germany in 1944.  Look like it will be a good show.

After the show Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  

December 5, 2023

 Tuesday December 5, 2023

Another dark gloomy day ahead.  Temps in 30s.  Yucky!

We followed our normal morning routine.  After MVP we ended up at Panera for our morning coffee.

Today Nancy has lunch with Cheryl Boomer and friends.  While Nancy was at lunch I made a quick shopping trip to Forest Hills Foods.  Bought fiber sticks, yogurt, cookies and granola.

This afternoon we attended a party for the folks living on our floor.  Nancy and I took eggnog and apple cider.  Most folks brought dessert.  I filled up on cookies and candy.  The party had about 25 folks in attendance.  No need for dinner tonight.

Last week Chase sent me new credit cards.  My old card expires this month.  I put the card in a safe place.  Wouldn't you know I forgot where I put it.  Tore the office apart with no luck.

The gloomy winter weather is getting to me.  Today I bought tickets for San Jose.  We are spending most of January at Debbies. 

Tonight we watched "All the Light We Cannot See" on Netflix.  Good show. 

Before Debbie retired I had her get me an Apple Laptop.  It was inexpensive.  I am writing this blog on the new machine.

Following our normal evening procedure after watching TV, Nancy headed to bed and I read the WSJ.

December 4, 2023

 Monday December 4, 2023

Up at our usual time of 0730

Oatmeal breakfast with blueberries.

Nancy and I drove the Escape to MVP.

Another dark gloomy day with  temps in 30s.

We are still both recovering from our Thanksgiving colds.

Nancy did her Monday swim and I did calisthenics at 50%.

We had morning coffee at Panera.

Read the morning news.  The war in Gaza dominates with side stories about Trump vs Biden and Taylor Swift.

Today my project is to make a payment for Grandson Lucas's UCI tuition.  Years ago I set up a Michigan Education Fund for each of the Grandkids.  

Today I called the fund and they sent a check to UCI.  Very easy.

We attended Happy Hour and then had our dinner in the Main Dining Room.  I had clam chowder and Nancy had a shrimp cocktail.

Tonight we watched "The Night Manager" on Brit Box.  After the Show Nancy headed to bed and I read the WSJ. 

December 3, 2023

Sunday December 3, 2023

Blog time 1600 sitting at desk.

I am so far behind on my blogs that I will write a brief summary.

Debbie arrived from San Jose on the Monday before Thanksgiving.  Thanksgiving morning the three of us drove to Gaylord for Thanksgiving dinner.  21 folks were in attendance. Plenty of turkey and stuffing.  A great time was had by all.  

We stayed the night in Gaylord.  On Friday Debbie drove us home.  We had to take the Fusion because the Escape was still in the body shop.  A downside to Thanksgiving was that we all got the flu.  Bummer!

Debbie left for San Jose on Saturday, 24 November.  We have spent the last week recovering.  We resumed our normal schedule but on a reduced schedule.

Missy and AJ had Thanksgiving dinner at the Boat Club.  They resumed their confusing school schedule last week.  AJ loves the school in San Diego.  Missy is thinking getting permanent digs in San Diego.

Last week was the first week of Debbie’s retirement.  Unfortunately she was sick.

Today Nancy and Bob resumed our normal Sunday routine.  Church was very crowded.  

This afternoon I took a long nap.  It is now 1600 and Nancy is on a walk outside.

Light dinner tonight and then we will watch 60 Minutes.  I hope I never get this far behind on my blog.  Enjoy the Holiday season.

 

November 16, 2023

 Thursday November 16, 2023

Blog time 1145 sitting at Panera.

Up at 0730.  Morning calisthenics followed by yogurt/granola breakfast.

Drove to Panera.  It was sunny and warm. Temp will reach 60s.

I am finishing this blog on November 27,  I cannot remember what we did on the 16th.  Probably attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in the Main hall.

This evening we watched another episode of Shetland.  I think the ones we have been watching lately are reruns.  A good thing about being old is I cannot remember if I had seen it before.

After Shetland Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

November 15, 2023

Wednesday November 15, 2023

Blog time 1640 sitting in office.

Up at our usual time of 0730.

Did the at home calisthenics, took my pills and had yogurt for breakfast.  Instructions for the new pills suggest eating yogurt to settle stomach.

The pills have not yet reduced the sinus infection. I still have balance problems when I walk.

Nancy’s morning routine is different from mine.  Her first activity is playing Wordle followed by several other games.  Nancy does not eat breakfast.

Today is Nancy’s swim day.  Swim schedules at MVP must have changed because Nancy does not have to wait for a lane.

Despite being wobbly from the pills I have no problem doing my MVP calisthenics.  As usual I follow the calisthenics with a shower.

Another unseasonably warm sunny day.  Temp in 60s with sun.

We followed MVP with a trip to Panera.  I ordered two scones for Nancy and I to share.

No lunch today I just snacked on grapes.  Finished the afternoon with a nap.

Tonight Nancy and I drove to the Timbers restaurant.  We attended an “Over 60” dinner for Trinity Lutheran members. Good crowd tonight, 33.  The only downside was the restaurant’s terrible food.  We got home at 2130 and went straight to bed.

This and that:

Today, Nov 15, is the first day of deer season.  This is a big deal in northern MI but no one at Cook Valley hunts.

Warning for over 80 crowd: do not cut your toenails.  I have cut a toe the last two time I tried to cut.  Very hard to stop the bleeding.  Pay the extra cost and have a pro do the cutting.

November 14, 2023

 Tuesday November 14, 2023

Blog time 1630 on Wednesday the 15th.

Up this morning at 0545.  Nancy has a 0715 appointment with her cardiologist.  Who schedules an appointment at 0715.

It was pitch black when we left home.  I had to use my night vision glasses.  Still I am uncomfortable driving at night.

Today is going to be another day with unseasonably warm temps.  

We arrived on time and were seen immediately.  No doctor today.  We saw a PA.  I was totally unimpressed with this meeting.  

We decided because of the hour we would make today an easy day, no MVP.  

After the Doctor’s meeting we headed to the Panera near our old Tahoe Dr Condo.  We had coffee and scones.

Followed the Panera stop with a visit to Meijer’s.  Today I also made a stop at Total Wines.  Bought six bottles of my favorite bled and two bottles of my Sister’s favorite.  We will take her wine up to Gaylord next week.

My sinus infection pills are playing havoc with my stomach. This afternoon I tried to nap, unsuccessfully.

We attended Happy Hour tonight.  We originally had dinner reservations tonight with the Moores.  However, Sue Ann was under the weather so they cancelled. For dinner I had a yogurt and Nancy finished her Saturday omelettte.

Tonight we watched two episodes of Yellowstone before turning in.  Nancy is not a fan of this show.  We were both in bed by 2115.

 

November 13, 2023

 Monday November 13, 2023.

Blog time 1145, sitting in Panera.

Up this morning at 0730.  The sinus infection pills seem to be working.

I took my pills and had a Yogurt w/granola breakfast.  Sun and temps in 50s today.

After breakfast Nancy and I drove to MVP.  Nancy swam and I did my weekday calisthenics.

After MVP we headed to Panera for our morning coffee.  Today being the 13th is also the day I buy a lottery ticket.  Today I bought the ticket at Forest Hills Food.  Also bought skin lotion.

Nancy and I took a short walk this afternoon.  Dinner tonight was in the Main Dining Room.

Watched the last episode tonight of “Harry Wild”.  Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  

I get mixed signals reading the papers.  First is that the world is heading to disaster.  The other is that the stock market is strong.

Tonight we had dinner in the Main Dining Room.  

We watched an episode of “Harry Wild”.

Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

November 12, 2023

 Sunday November 12, 2023

Blog time 1100 sitting in Panera

Woke up at 0730, tried to stand up but fell back on bed.  I knew exactly what was wrong.  I have an infection in my left sinus.  The pills our new GP gave me were not working.  I have major balance problems with the infection.

We dressed and headed to Emergency at Blodgett.  The EM Doc knew the pills I was prescribed were wrong. He gave me a prescription for the medicine I had taken in the past.  We drove to Meijer’s and picked up the pills.

No church today or bike ride.  As soon as I got home I took a pill, followed by a long nap.  

After the nap, Nancy and I took short walk around the Big House.  Beautiful day, sun with temps in 50s.

After UM beat Penn State I wanted to knock on the door of a PSU fanatic down the hall and tell him “cheaters win”.  Nancy talked me out of it.

For dinner tonight I had a lean cuisine chicken meal.  It was good.

Tonight we watched “60 Minutes” followed by an episode of “Yellowstone”.  First time I had seen this show.  It was good.

This and that:

I am surprised at all the anti Jewish violence in the USA, especially on elite college campuses.  Of course I never thought any Ivy League school was that great.

Biden and Trump in 24! I never thought we were that stupid.

The last two weeks we have had great weather.  No Frost yet.

Our Ford Escape has been in the body shop for a month.  We were promised it would be finished by the 17th.

I ask residents about Nov 15 and no one knows.  First day of firearm deer season. 

November 11, 2023

 Catch up time, November 2-11

I have gotten so far behind I thought I would write a catchup blog covering 11 days.

November 2, today we took the Ford Escape to the Ford body shop.  The car was damaged in an accident that happened in MVP’s parking lot.  Dinner in the Main Dining room.

November 3,  normal week day activities.  Tonight we attended a Gift Show at Meijer Gardens.

November 4, Saturday:  breakfast at “The Gathering Place”.  Went back to Gardens this evening.

November 5, Sunday.  We set our clocks back and made it to Church on time.  

Monday November 6, 2023:  another typical weekday.  

Tuesday November 7, 2023:  today is Election Day.  We had several school bond proposals on the ballot.  Nancy and I voted absentee.   We alway support local school issues.

Wednesday November 8, 2023:  today we had a meeting with our Financial Adviser at Wells Fargo.  Every thing ok.

Thursday November 9:  Normal day.  MVP, Panera, shopping at Meijer’s.  Dinner in Main Dining room.

Friday November 10,  today was the official recognition of Veteran’s Day.  Not much business activity.  Another dinner at CV.  Watched an episode of Jane Seymour’s show, Harry Wild.

Saturday November 11, 2023:  today is Veteran’s Day.  Breakfast at “The Gathering Place”. I get a bike ride in.

General comments on the last several week.  We had several days of rain but generally the weather was great.  I have been driving Nancy in the mornings but have time for an afternoon bike ride.

We like Harry Wild, Shetland, London Kills.  

I hope I never get this far behind on my blog.  Have a great day.

November 1, 2023

Wednesday November 1, 2023

The first day of November.  We have had a mild fall so far.  The leaves are almost gone.

Wednesday is my easy day.  All calisthenics at 50%.  However, Wednesday is a swim day for Nancy.

After MVP we headed to Panera.

This afternoon a TV repairman stopped by to repair our TV remote and internet connection.  No charge because Internet service is provide by Cook Valley.

We had dinner in the dining room followed some Netflix watching.  Tonight we watched “Shetland”.  We were in bed by 2200.

October 31, 2023

 Tuesday October 31, 2023

Halloween Day.

Blog time 1650 on Thursday Nov 2.

Up the morning at usual time.  Did my morning at home calisthenics.  Oatmeal breakfast with blueberries before heading to MVP.

Today Nancy does the treadmill and stationary bike.  I do my chin/pull ups, sit-ups, deep knee bends and ride the stationary bike for 15 minutes.  Showered before heading out to Panera.

At Panera I ordered two scones and our coffee.  After Panera we drove to Meijer’s for supplies.

I did take a nap this afternoon.  Tonight we had dinner in the Main Dining area.

Watched an episode of “Shetland”.  Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

October 30, 2023

 Monday October 30, 2023

Blog time 1305 sitting in office.

Up as usual at 0730.  The was not yet up, 0815.  Temperature in high 30s.

I fixed an oatmeal breakfast w/blueberries.  We left for MVP at 0845.  Today is Nancy’s swim day.  I will do my calisthenics and stationary bike ride.

MVP was empty.  Nancy had no problem getting a lane and I completed my routine in record time.  I showered after the workout.

We had our coffee at Panera.  Nancy works up an appetite after her swim.  I bought two scones for us.

We headed home at 1200.  Tonight at 1600 we are attending a Fall Margaritas event in the Harbor Cafe.  Free margaritas for everyone.

Today I ordered a book on line.  When I opened it found out it was in French.  How do I get my money back?

Also found out that internet/TV repair man is available Wed PM.  The volume on our TV remote is not working. We were able to watch an episode of “London Kills”.

2100 Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

October 29, 2023

Sunday October 29, 2023

Blog time 1915 sitting in office

We slept in until 0800.  No Church today.

Helen and Sally left for Gaylord today about 0900. Temperature was in 40s and gloomy.  Temperature in Gaylord was in 30s.

Nancy and I headed to Meijer’s so Nancy could pick up a prescription.  We then had coffee and a croissant at Panera.

Today after our coffee we took a ride through rural areas south of Cook Valley.  We noted the leaves are almost gone.  Because of our wet weather a lot of corn and soybeans had not been harvested.

We drove about 90 minutes.  A very pleasant drive.

At home I bundled up and took a 10 mile bike ride.

We snacked all day so no special time for dinner.  Finished the muffins sister, Helen, brought and Sugar Mom’s cookies that Nancy purchased on Saturday.

Debbie called this evening. We got caught up.

Tonight we watched an old English mystery on BritBox.  Not very good.

We were both in bed by 2200.

 

October 28, 2023

 Saturday October 28, 2023

Blog time 1830 on Sunday

Helen and Sally were up about 0800.  They did not want breakfast.  Headed straight to their meeting.

Nancy and I followed our normal Saturday routine.  Breakfast at “The Gathering Place” followed by a quick stop at Panera.

We have been having a stretch of freaky weather.  Temps in the 60s with scattered rain daily.  It has limited my bike riding.  However, today temperature was in 40s which is normal.  I found time to take a 10 mile bike ride.  I wore my summer bike clothes. I was very cold.

Helen and Sally returned to Cook Valley about 1500.  They said about 200 folks attended their meeting.  

This afternoon Helen’s Granddaughter Paige and husband Mike visited with their new baby boy Kingston.  Helen, Sally, and Nancy had a chance to hold the baby.  Good times.

Interesting that neither Mike or Paige had never heard of the Kingston Trio.  We sang some of the Trio’s hits and it did not register.  

For dinner tonight we drove to NO-CO.  The place was not very crowded.  We did not see any senior citizens.  We all had a sandwich and wine.  The food was good but not great.  What does that mean?

After dinner we sat in the living room and had a nice conversation.  Nancy and I seldom sit and talk with other folks, so we enjoyed the past two evenings.

Every one was in bed by 2130, except me.  I stayed up and read the WSJ.

October 27, 2023

Friday October 27, 2023

Blog time of 1815 on Sunday 

Summary of Day’s activities;

Up early today.  My sister, Helen, and her friend Sally are coming this afternoon.  They are attending a Church meeting on Saturday and will stay at Cook Valley.  I had the Guest room reserved for two night.

Today was swim day for Nancy.  Lately she has no problem getting a lane.  In fact I have noticed that attendance at MVP is way down.

After our workout we head to Panera for coffee and croissant.  Before going home made a quick stop at Meijer’s for supplies.

Helen and friend, Sally Anderson,  arrived about 1500.  

Tonight we all had dinner in the Dining room.  Helen and Sally said they liked the food.

After dinner we sat in living room, drank wine and talked.

Helen and Sally were in their room by 2100.

Nancy also went to bed at 2100.

I stayed up and read the WSJ.

October 26, 2023

Thursday October 26,  2023

Blog time 1800 on Sunday 29 October 29, 2023

Yes I am several days behind.

Day's activities:

First thing we pick up because cleaning folks are coming.

Drove to MVP:  We did our Thursday routine.

Coffee and crossiant at Panera.

Arrived home at noon.

Returned all items we moved for cleaning folks.

Found time for a quick nap.

Attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in main dining area.

Watched last episode of "Young Wallendar".  

Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read WSJ. 

October 25, 2023

Wednesday October 25, 2023

Blog time 1630 sitting in den.  Writing blog on Laptop.

It was dark and gloomy when got up at 0730.  Hard to believe but the temperature was in 60s all day.  Daylight not until 0809.  DST ends November 5.

Light sprinkles on our drive to MVP.  Nancy did her swim.  Today is my easy day so I did the routine at 50%.

Gloomy and rainy when we headed to Panera.  Bought our coffee and croissants.  Spent some time reading the morning papers on our iPads.  Panera was empty.

Today we had an auto adjuster come at 1300 to make an estimate on repair cost for Escape.  I thought his estimate was reasonable.

After the adjuster left we drove through heavy rain to Great Clips so Nancy could get her hair cut.  They did a great job Nancy  looks great.

The cleaning crew cleans our apartment tomorrow.  We spent time picking up.

This afternoon I took a short nap.  No Bike ride today.

We attended Happy Hour and had dinner in the Dining Room.  Nancy had the shrimp cocktail and I had salmon with a salad.

Tonight we watched Death in Paradise.  Like this show but I think we have seen them all.

Nancy headed to bed at 2130.  I stayed up and read the WSJ.  I was in bed by 2200.  

 

October 24, 2023

Tuesday October 24, 2023

Blog time 1650 sitting in office.

Up this morning at 0730.  The sun was not up yet, sunrise 0808.  Very warm this morning.  High temp today will reach 70s.  

Fixed an oatmeal w/ blueberries breakfast.  We left for MVP at 0845.  Today Nancy did her stationary bike and treadmill routine.  I did my calisthenics followed by a shower.

Today we had coffee and croissants at Panera.  We both took our iPads.  Checked email and read Michigan papers.  

MSU has been getting a lot of negative pressure.  Major disruption with the elected board.  Several members asking the chairman to resign.  Of course the athletic department is still under fire.

After Panera we made a brief stop at Forest Hills Foods.  I like this store.  Not Nancy's favorite.

This afternoon I took an eight mile bike ride.  Did not see any critters but the fall colors were spectacular.

Tonight we attended Happy Hour.  Good crowd about 19.

We had dinner in the Main Dining room.  Every one at our table had the special, chicken pot pie.  Our table mates were Jim and Susie Sebastian.  They are leaving Thursday for Florida.  A lot of Cook Valley folks spent the winter in Florida. 

Tonight we watched the last two episodes of "Young Wallendar".  Good show.

Nancy headed to bed at 2100.  I stayed up and read the WSJ.

October 23, 2023

 Monday October 23, 2023

Blog time 1335, sitting in office

Up this morning at our usual 0730.  Fixed an oatmeal breakfast w/blueberries.

Nancy packed her swim gear in her bag and we headed to MVP.

The pool was not crowded but the main workout area was jammed.  Don't these young adults have a job?

Anticipating no bike ride today because of a 1420 dental appointment I increased my time on stationary bike to 15 minutes.

We headed straight to Panera after MVP.  I bought us a bagel and croissant to go with the coffee.  Spent an hour reading the local papers.  

On way home we stopped at Forest Hills Foods to get a bottle of prune juice (light).  FHF did not have.  Neither did Meijer's when checked yesterday.

At home I got caught up on my blogs.  I have a 1420 dental appointment today.  Left at 1400 and spent only 5 minutes waiting.  Today a permanent crown was installed.  It took 40 minutes.

After the dentist I headed to D&W.  Luckily D&W had the Light Prune Juice that I like.  Bought 3 bottles.

Tonight we attended "Happy Hour", light attendance.  We had dinner tonight in the Main Dining hall.  Our table mates were Lars and Doris Larson who are summer residents of Beaver Island.  Nancy and I had the dinner special, a shrimp, rice medley. 

Tonight we watched another two episodes of "Young Wallander". We should finish the series on Tuesday.

Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  Not much of interest that I want to comment on.  

October 22, 2023

Sunday October 22, 2023

Blog time 1330 on Monday 

Sunday morning got up early, 0700.  Dressed for church and fixed an oatmeal breakfast.  Looks like a sunny day ahead.  Temperature to start in 30s but should reach 50s later.

Church was very crowded today.  Pastor Bob gave a great Homily on peace in the world.  Very timely.

Every Sunday the Church ladies proved snacks.  We overindulged on cookies.  

After church we took our Sunday drive through rural areas.  Today we headed north.  Fall colors are now at their peak.

Stopped at Meijer's for supplies.  The store's shelves were not fully stocked.

This afternoon I took an 8 mile bike ride.  Usually I stop at the Burton St bridge that is undergoing renovations.  The closure of the bridge is a major inconvenience for folks at Cook Valley.  Noted some progress but don't expect bridge to open before Thanksgiving.

For dinner tonight Nancy fixed me a lean cuisine meal.  We watched the news followed by another episode of "Young Wallendar".  We were both in bed by 2130.

October 21, 2023

Saturday October 21, 2023

Blog time 1315 sitting in office.

Saturday Morning.  We were up at 0715.  Both had a good night's sleep.

It was raining with temperature in high 30s.  Coldest morning in weeks.

Dressed and headed to "The Gathering Place".  The restaurant was crowded.  Nancy order her usual "Western Omelette" with raisin toast and I had oatmeal a scrambled egg and raisin toast. As always the food was good.

After breakfast we took our weekly ride through Ada Village ending up at the Kraft Ave Panera.  We got our free coffee and a croissant.

It was still raining when we got home so probably no bike ride today.  At home Nancy started the laundry.  Today is clean sheets day.  We stripped the bed and put on clean sheets.  What a chore, we will ask the cleaning folk who clean every two weeks if we could pay them to put on clean sheets.

This afternoon I took a short nap.  For dinner tonight we had a frozen custard at Culver's.  It was good.

Tonight we watched two episodes of "Young Wallander".  Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the screwed up WSJ.

I am completing this blog on Monday morning.  I cannot recall who Facetimed us this weekend.  I think we talked with Missy, Debbie and Alessandra.  But who knows?

Today I did watch some of the UM/MSU game.  Is UM good or MSU bad?  I really have lost interest.

  

October 20, 2023

Friday October 20, 2023

Up this morning at 0800.  I had a fitful night.  My arm was very sore from Thursday's covid shot.

Nancy had another problem.  She could not sleep.  I said it was from all the chocolate she ate last night.  The caffeine in chocolate will inhibit sleep.  No MVP for Nancy today.  She is staying in bed.

I did all my calisthenics at home today, no MVP.  Nancy was still in bed so I went to Panera by myself.  Temperature in 40s with light rain.

At Panera I ordered a scone and coffee.   Spent an hour reading the local Michigan papers.

At home I changed into bike clothes and took a 7 mile ride.  The heavy rain had stopped only a light mist.  I noted the colors were at peak.

I had a light lunch followed by a nap.  Tonight Nancy and I attended Happy Hour.  We had dinner in the main dining.  Very small crowd.  Both Nancy and I had the shrimp cocktail.

Tonight we watched another episode of "Young Wallendar".  Good show.

Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read the WSJ.  I don't like the new format for the WSJ.   

October 19, 2023

 Thursday October 19, 2023

Blog time 1620, sitting in office.

I overslept this morning. Did not get up until nearly 0800.

Did the at home calisthenics routine, followed by breakfast of yogurt with granola.  Rain predicted for most of day.  Temp in low 50s when we headed out.

I have a locker at MVP so I put on workout clothes.  Nancy put her workout clothes on at home.

Nancy was already doing her treadmill routine when I arrived.  After her treadmill she will ride the stationary bike.

I did my standard calisthenics.  No outside bike today so I used the stationary bike for 15 minutes.  After completing my routine I showered.

Nancy was waiting for me when I entered MVP’S lobby.  Drove to Panera for our morning coffee.  We were both hungry so I ordered two croissants.  Left Panera at noon and headed home.

At home I called Forest Hills Food about getting a Covid shot.  They said come in at 1415.  We arrived at 1410.  Short wait before getting our shot.

This evening Nancy and I are attending an opening of a new exhibit at Meijer Garden.  We drove to the Gardens in pouring rain.  The exhibit is called “Forest of Dreams: Contemporary Tree Sculptures”.

 For refreshments we bought cookies from the snack bar.  

The lecture started at 1800 and ran an hour. I gave it a C.  When the lecture ended we walked around the exhibit.  It took about 15 minutes.  We were home at 1930.  Watched a Netflix show before turning in.

Both Nancy and my arms were sore from the Covid shot.  Stay tuned for tomorrow’s report on our restless night.

October 18, 2023

 Wednesday October 18, 2023

Blog time 1630 sitting in office.

Up once again at 0730.  Sun rise not until 0800. 

Nancy already had her swim suit on.  I fixed oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast before dressing.  

MVP was not crowded today.  Once again Nancy did not have to wait to get a swim lane.  Being Wednesday my easy day I did my calisthenics at 50%.  

After MVP we headed to Panera.  I was hungry so ordered two scones to share.  Love scones!

After Panera we stopped at Sheldon Cleaners.  Cold weather is coming so I left my favorite Pea Coat to get is cleaned.

This afternoon Nancy attended a piano concert.  It was a nice sunny day so I took a seven mile bike ride, followed by a nap.

This evening we attended 1700-1800 Happy Hour.  Lately Happy Hour has been well attended, 18-20 folks.  

For dinner Nancy had shrimp cocktail, I had the dinner special, ham with beans and rice.  We split a scoop of vanilla ice scream for dessert.

Tonight we watched two episodes of “Young Wallander”.  Great show.

Nancy headed to bed at 2130.  I stayed up and tried to read the WSJ.  The Journal has changed its digital format.  The change is terrible.

This and that:

The GOP still cannot pick a leader.  We badly need a third party.

A lot of misinformation regarding the Middle East.  I heard President Biden’ new conference and I thought it went well.

The fall colors are now at their peak.  Beautiful!  No signs of frost in the next week.

October 17, 2023

 Tuesday October 17, 2023

Blog time 1645 sitting in office

Up at 0730.  Fixed myself a yogurt parfait for breakfast.  Also did my at home leg raises, push ups and pull-ups.

No swim for Nancy today.  Treadmill and stationary bike are her Tuesday and Thursday routines.

MVP was not crowded.  Did pushups, pull/chins ups and rode     the stationary bike for 10 minutes.  I am still recovering from my cold so no outside activities.

After the workout I showered.  We had our morning coffee as usual at Panera.

Came straight home after Panera.  Today is good grooming day.  I shaved my head and face before a quick nap.

Tonight we attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in the main dining a room.  I had a burger, sans bun, and Nancy had her usual shrimp cocktail.

Tonight we watched two episodes of “Young Wallander”.  Debbie called, she is ready to make a big announcement soon on her future. Stay tuned.

After Wallander, Nancy headed to bed. I stayed up and read the WSJ.  Once again the Middle East dominates the news.

October 16, 2023

 Monday Oct 16, 2023

Slept in until 0745, Nancy already had her swim suit on. I did my at home calisthenics at 50% and then fixed an oatmeal breakfast. I am still recovering from cold.

MVP was not crowded.  As soon as I got dressed in work out clothes checked the pool and Nancy was already swimming.  No wait today for a lane.

After my routine I showered and put on lotion.  We then headed to Panera for our morning coffee.

We spent some time after our coffee running errands.  First stop was Fitzgerald’s.  Picked up a pair of dress trousers.  Next we headed to Meijer so I could pick up a prescription.  Nancy was starving so we stopped at Forest Hill Foods.  Nancy got a chicken breast and some baked beans.  I helped her eat the beans.  They were delicious.

This afternoon I took a nap.  No bike today. 

We attended Happy Hour and then had dinner in the dining room.  Nancy, as usual, had the shrimp cocktail and I had soup with a salad.

Tonight we watched an episode of “Young Wallander”. I thought it was great, Nancy not so much.  Nancy headed to bed and I stayed up and read WSJ.

The news outlets have been bombarding us with reports from the Middle East.  I am surprised at the our woke generation blaming Israel.  The woke folks have caused disruptions at colleges.  Good to see Harvard Alums telling college no gifts or jobs for protestors.

October 15, 2023

 Sunday October 15, 2023

Woke up today at 0800 feeling slightly better.  Nancy woke up confused she thought today was Monday.  She had her swim suit on.  

I was still not 100% so decided no church.  We badly needed supplies so made a quick trip to Meijer’s followed by a stop at Panera for coffee.

At home we put away our groceries.  I took a pill and then a long nap.

We took a short afternoon walk.  Felt good to be outside.  The leaves are almost at peak color.

I had a yogurt parfait for dinner.  Tonight we watched two episodes of “Bergerac”.

We were both in bed by 2200.

October 14, 2023

 Saturday October 14, 2023

Blog time 1150 on Sunday the 15th.

I spent a miserable night, typical cold, with runny nose etc.

Usually we have breakfast at “The Gathering Place”.  Not today.  I spent most of the day in bed.  I did walk downstairs to the Harbor Cafe and got us a coffee at 0900. My only venture outside the apartment today.

Tylenol was my medicine of choice.  Downed one every 4 hours.  I also drank plenty of water.

Towards the end of the day I started feeling better.  Had a chicken lean cuisine dinner.  

Tonight we watched an episode of “Bergerac” staring John Nettles of “Midsomer Murder” fame.  An ok show.

Nancy headed to bed at 2200. I stayed up and read the WSJ.      

I am surprised at the number of folks in US supporting Hamas.  Clearly Hamas started the invasion.  

Will Harvard ever regain any credibility?  The Woke generation is stupid.

October 13, 2023

 Friday the 13th.  I woke up this morning with a bad cold.  It will be a two hanky day.  Fixed oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast. 

Nancy and I drove to MVP.  I did my routine at 50%, after the work out I took a nice hot shower.  As I was getting dressed I could not find my iWatch.  Looked every where.  The staff said they would call me if the watch was found.  As I was leaving I thought my sock was bunched in my shoe.  Took off shoe and “lo and behold” my iWatch was in my shoe.  

We had our morning coffee at Panera.  Panera was very cold so we left without doing any reading.

At home I took a long nap.  My cold was getting worse so I stayed in bed.

Nancy had dinner with the Moores after the all played Mexican Train.  This evening I watched an episode of “Pacific” on Netflix.  Tonight’s episode was about the battle at “Guadalcanal”.  The first major land battle.  While watching all I could remember was a Navy Chief telling me about driving a landing craft.  He said he never so scared.

After Nancy got home I took several Tylenol and headed to bed.

October 12, 2023

Thursday October 12, 2023

Up this morning at 0730.  The temperature was in low 50s.  Cloudy but no rain today.  

We both quickly dressed.  I had yogurt for breakfast.  Nancy and I went together to MVP.  Nancy did the treadmill and stationary bike.  I did pull/chin ups, 100 sit-ups, 50 push ups using perfect push up bars. Rode 15 minutes on stationary bike.

After the workout I showered, applied lotion and dressed.  Nancy was waiting in the entrance hall for me.  We drove to Panera for our morning coffee and croissant.  We spent time talking before heading home.

At home I put on warm bike  clothes and headed out.  Today I rode 8 miles.  No time for a nap this afternoon.

We attended 1600 Happy Hour.  Happy Hour lately has been well attended.  20 folks last night.  We had dinner in the Main Dining room.  Our dinner guests were the Sebastians.  Jim Sebastian was a friend of Steve Fletcher from Alpena.  

Following dinner Nancy and I played Bingo.  Nancy won $4. No TV tonight.  Missy did call tonight.  We had a nice talk.

This and that:

POTUS appears very confused.  Most of his comments on current events come out garbled.

Speaking of garbled, the House GOP cannot elect a leader.  House of idiots!

Israel sure was unprepared for the Hamas invasion. I think it is going to get nasty.

I am feeling a cold coming on so I headed to bed without reading the WSJ. Stay tuned.

October 9, 2023

 It has been a week since my last post.  A lot has happened:

Last Wednesday we attended a party at the University Club.  50 Cook Valley residents were the Guest of Peter Turner a 92 year old resident of Cook Valley.  We had a great 7 course dinner along with plenty of wine.

The leaves are turning fast in GR.  This is a special time of year.  I have been able to ride my bike every day.

Kevin McCarthy losing his Speaker job was something middle of the road folks like me thought was tragic.  The idiots rule.

Hamas’s attack on Israel caught everyone by surprise.  I sure hope a peace settlement is possible.

Nancy had another fender-bender last week at MVP.  She ran into a parked car.  Her foot slipped.  Damage is minor.

The passing of Jimmy Buffett was sad.

Today, Oct 9, we both got up a 0730.  The temperature was 38 and windy.  Typical Fall weather.

Nancy got ready for her swim and I fixed an oatmeal breakfast.  Today I drove both of us to MVP.  We are using the Fusion until the Escape gets repaired.

After our workouts we drove to Panera for our morning coffee.  On our way home we stopped at Forest Hill Foods and bought granola and fiber.

I spent several hours taking summer clothes down stairs and bring up warm weather garments.   Fall weather means Corduroy.  I found three pair of pants and a sport coat.

Took a seven mile bike ride this afternoon.  I wore light weight long underwear under my riding pants.  I also wore a lightweight wool jacket under my bright yellow bike jacket.  My sister gave me the wool jacket for my birthday.  A great jacket.

We had dinner in the Main Dining room tonight.  Nancy had a shrimp cocktail and I had the special mushroom soup with a. Salad.

Tonight we watched two episodes of the “Good Cop”.  It is now 2130.  Nancy just headed to bed and I still have to read the WSJ.

October 3, 2023

 Tuesday October 3, 2023

Blog time 1630 sitting in office.

I am way behind so decided to start fresh today.

Up at 0730.  The sun was just coming, 0742.  Nancy got ready for her MVP visit.  Today she walks the treadmill and pedals a stationary bike.  She left at 0800.

Lately I have been doing all my calisthenics, except chin ups, at home.  No oatmeal breakfast today.  After the calisthenics I pu on bike clothes and pedaled the 5 miles to MVP.  Temp was in high 50s when I started and was almost 70 when I arrived.  Today is going to be a hot one, high 80s.

I completed my chin-ups in under 15 minutes.  Put jacket back on and pedaled 2 miles to Forest Hills Foods.  Today I bought a yogurt parfait, complete with granola and blueberries.  I love the parfait but is must be loaded with calories.  Read the Michigan papers and also bought a paper copy of the WSJ.  I wanted to compare the digital against the paper.  The paper WSJ cost $3.00 which seem outrageous.  

Got home at 1230, total miles 9.5, shaved and showered and got ready for 1420 dentist appointment.  No lunch today.

When I arrived at the Dentist office I was informed that my appointment was not until Oct 23.  Bummer! 

Left Dentist office and headed to Burton Car wash.  Got the Escape cleaned inside and out.  We are using the Escape to take some neighbors to a party tomorrow at the Downtown University Club.

After the car wash I stopped at Fitzgerald’s.  I bought a pair of dress pants.  First purchase of nice clothing in over a year.

Blog resumes on Monday October 9.  Once again I am way behind.

Tonight we had dinner in the dining room.  I cannot remember what we watched on the internet tonight.

Nancy headed to bed at 2130 and I stayed up and read the WSJ.

September 26, 2023

 Tuesday September 26, 2023

Blog time 1550 on Thursday 28 Oct

I had some difficulty sleeping because of my dental work.  I got up and took 2 pain pills.  That helped.

I have not talked about Missy and AJ’s big adventure.  Missy has enrolled AJ in a special school in San Diego.  It is about a two hour drive from LA.  Missy spends the evenings in an Extended Stay hotel.  Missy say the school is a good fit for AJ.

Today I followed my normal Tuesday routine.  Up at 0730, oatmeal breakfast, bike 5 miles to MVP and then after my calisthenics I pedal 2 miles to Forest Hill Foods.  

Purchase a bagel and Starbucks coffee.  Read the Detroit and Alpena News before heading home.  Total miles 9.5.

More activities:

Lunch, do some chores and then a nap.

Attend Happy Hour and then have dinner in Main Dining Hall.

We watched a Netflix show.  I cannot remember the name.

Nancy headed to bed at 2200. I stayed up and read the WSJ.

September 25, 2023

 Monday September 25

Blog time 1700 on Wednesday September 27.

Monday morning slept in until 0800.  The pool is still closed at MVP so Nancy did the treadmill/stationary bike.

I did my at home calisthenics.  In fact I now do all my calisthenics except pull/chin ups at home.  I biked 5 miles to MVP.  Lately I have had to change my route because of all the underground cable work along East Paris.

I make a quick stop at MVP.  Total time for pull/chin ups is about 15 minutes. Get back on bike and pedal 2 miles to Forest Hills Foods.  Buy coffee at Starbucks and a donut in the bakery section.  Settle down with my treats to read the morning papers and check email. 

The bike ride home is about 2 miles. Total miles = 9. 

This afternoon I have a big dentist appointment.  The purpose is to remove an old crown, clean out the decay and put in a new temporary crown.  I spent 2 hour in the chair.  

I do not have a lot of confidence in my new dentist.  He has a lot of high tech toys but seems clumsy when working in my mouth.

We did attend Happy Hour tonight.  Dinner in the Main Dining Room.  Tonight all I had was a bowl of soup.  

We watch and episode of “Mr and Mrs Murder”. Finished the evening reading the WSJ.  Turned in at 1030.

 

September 24, 2023

 September 23, and 24:  weekend update

Blog time 1630 on Wednesday October 27.

Still playing catchup.

The weekend of the 23 and 24 was typical summer weekend.  Actually it was a Fall weekend.

The great weather continues:  I was able to bike both days.  Typical ride between 9 and 10 miles.

Saturday morning we had breakfast as usual at “The Gathering Place”.  Western Omelette for Nancy and oatmeal for me.

We took our Saturday after breakfast ride through Ada.  Progress is being made on the big new addition to the Village.

At home Nancy did the laundry and I took a bike ride. Another great day for a ride. Today I rode to Ada, total miles 12.

I only watched a small part of the UM game.  The newspaper have been having a field day with the problems of MSU’s football coach. It almost looks to me like he was set up my his accuser. 

Every Saturday I check the Alpena News to see how my old high school’s teams are doing.  Bottom line it has been a miserable season.

Sunday September 24.

Up at 0730 and get ready for church.  I fixed a bowl of oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast.

Big turnout at church today.  Always glad to see so many young folks involved in church activities.

After church we took a ride south on Kalamazoo Ave to Barry County.  The leaves are just starting to turn.

At home I took a 10 mile ride followed by a nap.  I did read the GRP.  I look at the obits and sports.

A lot of news on the mess the GOP has made in Ottawa County.  It is such a mess that I no longer call myself a Republican.  

Light dinner tonight followed by the news and some Netflix streaming.

September 22, 2023

 Friday September 22, 2023

Blog time 1700 on Tuesday September 26.  Playing catch up.

Today the internet went down.  We were without service for most of the day.  

To the best of my memory I did take a bike ride and a nap.

We had dinner in the dining.  Nancy played Mexican Train this evening.  I read the papers on my iPad.  No streaming tonight.