May 30, 2023

Tuesday May 30, 2023

Today we got back to normal.  Up at 0700 and we both got ready for MVP.  I had an oatmeal breakfast w/blueberries before I left.  I took my standard 5 mile bike ride to MVP.

Nancy was already finishing up her Tuesday routine when I arrived.  Every day after MVP Nancy drives to Panera for her morning coffee.

After my 30 minutes of calisthenics I biked to Family Foods.  Bought a bagel and Starbucks coffee.  Today I only read the MI newspapers.  Left at noon and headed home.  Total bike miles today, 9.8.

Showered, shaved before lunch.  This afternoon we ran errands.  First stop LMCU so Nancy could renew a CD.  Next stop Macatawa Bank so I could get cash for next week’s trip to CA.  Finally we stopped at Meijer’s to buy supplies.  

1700 we headed down to the outdoor patio for Happy Hour.  HH was not well attended probably because it was 90 degrees.  1800 we drove to Leo’s for our Tuesday Hot Dog.

Tonight we watched “High Desert” followed by “Shrinking”.

Tomorrow will be another very hot day.  Possible rain showers in late afternoon.

May 29, 2023

 May 29, 2023

Memorial Day

Up at 0730.  We dressed and made our annual trip to Saugatuck.  We had breakfast at the Pumpernickel.  Nancy had French Toast and I had crab cakes with poached eggs.  All very good.

Saugatuck was crowded with weekend tourists.  We walked around and visited several shops but purchased nothing.

I remember as a young Boy Scout my troop marched in Alpena’s big Memorial Day parade.  The parade had two high school bands, Girl Scouts, the City Band, the unit from the National Guard and a lot of floats.  Another important event on Memorial Day my mother let me stop wearing long underwear.  

Today I found time for a 10 mile bike ride.  Followed by short nap.

At 1700 we headed down to the Main Dining to attend Cook Valley’s Memorial Day dinner.  About 50 folks attended.  Great food especially the desserts.  I filled up on banana bread and great cookies.  

Last night we watched an episode of “Happy Valley”.

Tomorrow will be sunny and hot.

May 28, 2023

 Sunday May 28, 2023

Blog time 1630 on Tuesday May 30,  late as usual

Sunday Morning.  Today Pastor Bob said we should wear red to church.

Church was lightly attended.  No Band.

After church we headed east to Lowell before heading home.  We did stop at Panera for our morning coffee.

Found time for a 9+ mile bike ride followed by a nap.  

We attended Happy Hour.  It was well attended.

For dinner we had several pinwheels.  Watched last episode of Citadel.  I gave this show a B-.

Tomorrow is Memorial and it expected to be sunny and warm.

May 27, 2023

 Saturday May 27, 2023

Blog time 1600 on Tuesday May 30,  big time late

Up this morning at 0730.  Quickly dressed and headed to “The Gathering Place” for.

We had our usual breakfast.  I thought because this is a holiday weekend that the restaurant would be empty.  Not the case it was full.

We had our usual followed by a drive to Ada.  Stopped at Panera for our free coffee.  

Stopped at Costco to buy two packages pinwheels.  We will take the pinwheels to the Memorial Day party in the Main Dining Room on Monday.

I did take a 9 mile bike ride today.  Followed by a nap.

This evening we had a bowl of soup at Soups on Cascade Road.  I had mushroom soup and Nancy had chicken noodle.

Tonight we watched the last episode of “The Last Thing He Told Me”.

Another nice sunny day awaits us.

May 26, 2023

 Friday May 26, 2023

Blog time 1130 sitting in Forest Hills Food.

Sunrise today at 0609.  Sunset 2109. 15 hours of daylight.

We both got up at 0700.  Nancy has her Friday swim and my routine is same as every weekday.

It was 34 when checked weather.  Dug out warm pants, gloves and hat.  It is 5.5 miles to MVP.  When I arrived at MPV the temp had risen to 52.  An 18 degree rise. I was drenched in sweat.

Quick work out and then I pedaled to Forest Hills Foods.  Bought two donuts and a Starbucks coffee.  Read the local papers before heading home.  Total miles today 9.9 miles.

Nancy had lunch today we several women who live on our corridor.  She had the Quiche.

After a shower Nancy and I drove to Meijer's.  We picked up a prescription for Nancy.

Finished the afternoon with a nap.  At 1700 we headed down to the Outdoor Patio for Happy Hour.  HH was well attended.

We had 1745 reservations for dinner tonight.  Our dinner guests were two sisters, life long residents of GR.  I had the lobster pasta and Nancy had light cheese tray.

Tonight Nancy played Mexican Train.  I watched a nature show on Netflix.

Debbie called this evening.  We had a nice talk.  Tomorrow Missy and AJ are visiting.  

Tomorrow will be another warm day.

May 25, 2023

 Thursday May 25, 2023

Blog time noon, sitting in Forest Hills Foods

Up at 0720.  The cleaners come  this morning so we spent time picking up.

Nancy headed to MVP for her treadmill/stationary bike routine.  I had an apple for breakfast and headed out.

I bundled up because of temps in high 40s.  It was colder still  because of the strong wind. Pedaled 5.5 miles to MVP.  30 minutes of calisthenics before putting bike gear back on and heading to Forest Hills Foods. It is 2.4 miles from MVP to Forest Hills Food.  

I had my heart set on buying a cup of yogurt with blueberries and granola but they were sold out.  Bummer! Instead I settled for 2 donuts and a Starbucks coffee.  Read the morning papers before heading home.  Total bike distance today 9.9 miles.

At home the cleaners were done.  The apartment looks great.  

Showered and then Nancy and I headed Meijer’s to check on the status of Nancy’s prescription.  It would be ready in 2 hours.  We said we will pickup tomorrow.  I was happy with the fast action of our new Spectrum GP.  I had only called yesterday.  

Lunch at 1400 followed by short nap.  

1700 we headed to the outdoor patio for Happy Hour.  No one was there.  Maybe they thought it was too cold.  We headed inside and sure enough 15 folks were enjoying HH.  Sissies!

We left HH at 1745 for the dining room.  We were seated with another couple.  For dinner Nancy had the sweet-sour chicken and I had salmon.  Nancy raved about the sweet-sour chicken.

Tonight we watched an episode of “Call the Midwife” followed by Harrison Ford’s Apple TV show “Shrinking”.  

Tomorrow is May 26 but when checked weather for tomorrow Frost Warnings were up!!  Good Grief!

May 24, 2023

Wednesday May 24, 2023

Blog time 1929 sitting in office

Breakfast Club Wednesday 

Alarm goes off at 0545.  Dressed and headed downtown to the University Club for the BC meeting.

Speaker today was the County Prosecutor.

Topic was Crime against Senior Citizens.  Very good talk.

This morning Nancy went swimming.

I took an 8.5 bike ride.

At 1100 Nancy and I attended a Cook Valley section meeting.  Boring!

Drove to Meijer’s and Costco to get Nancy’s meds squared away. Retiring Doctors has made a mess of our ordering meds.

At home I called our new GP, Dr Nguyen and got several prescriptions squared away.  Nancy is very worried about running out of meds while in CA.

I found time for a short nap. A 1700 we headed down to the patio for Happy Hour.  It was cool so we were joined by only the Reese’s.

For dinner Nancy had the chicken special.  I had a burger.  Great burgers at Cook Valley.

Tonight we watched episode 2 of Dalgliesh on Acorn.  I gave it a B-.

Temp in 50s when headed to bed.  Low 40s expected for tomorrow morning.

This and that:

Noted a lot of baby geese and ducks in neighborhood.  

The flowers around Cook Valley are beautiful.

Every day I see wild turkeys and sand hill cranes.

I don’t understand the problems with the debt limit.

Ukraine seem to be holding their own against Russia.  Hope US and allies don’t give up.

Most schools in Mi have finished the year.  Cook Valley is losing most of their wait staff.

Our Governor and Dem legislators are making Mi a union state.  Contractors and school administrators are losing control.

 

May 23, 2023

 Tuesday May 23,  2023

Blog time Wednesday at 1630, a day late

Up at 0720, fixed oatmeal breakfast with blueberries.  Temp was in mid 50s but sunny.

Nancy left early for her treadmill/stationary bike routine at MVP.  It was too cold to wear knickers today.  I wore my new all wool bike jacket with several other layers.  Biked 5 miles to MVP.  MVP was almost empty except for Nancy on the stationary bike.

I did my calisthenics which took 28 minutes.  Put bike clothes back on and headed up Forest Hills Avenue to Forest Hill Foods.  Bought two donuts and a Starbucks coffee. Spent an hour reading the morning papers.

Got home at noon.  Total miles today 9.9.

Showered and then Nancy and I headed to Meijer’s.  Today we made more food purchases. 

Found time for a quick nap. At 1700 we headed downstairs to the patio for Happy Hour.  We sat under the umbrellas and I drank my Vernor’s and Nancy her coke.  Very pleasant being outside.

Tonight is hot dog night.  We drove to Leo’s and had our hot dog with fries.  Leo’s was crowded.

Tonight we watched a new episode of Dalgliesh on Acorn.

The temperature will drop to 40s tonight.  No rain tomorrow another nice bike day.

May 22,2023

 Monday May 22, 2023

Blog time 2100, sitting in den

Bright sun streaming through window woke me up.  48 degrees in morning but up to high 70 this afternoon.

Nancy went swimming. I rode my bike 5 miles to MVP, did my calisthenics before biking to Forest Hills Foods. Bought donut and coffee before reading papers.

Got home at noon.  Bike miles today 9.8 miles.

Showered before driving to Meijer.  We really stocked up today.  I bought an electric razor for shaving my head.  Razor blades, wine, a years worth of tooth brushes, and scouring pads for the kitchen.

At home I had lunch and then a quick nap.

At 1700 we headed down to the outside patio for Happy Hour.  The temperature was in low 80s.  Very pleasant. About 10. Folks attended.

Tonight we had dinner in the main dining room.  I had the salmon and Nancy had the chicken special.  Our dinner guest were Lars Larson and wife Carol.  Tomorrow the Larsons are leaving for their summer home on Beaver Island.  They spend the summer on the island.

Tonight we talked briefly with both Debbie and Missy.

Tonight we watched the first episode of a new “Happy Valley” season.  It was good.

Temp was still in high 60s when we headed to bed.  Low tonight 52.  Tomorrow will be another dry, sunny day.  We really need a good shower.

May 21, 2023

 Weekend Update for May 20 & 21

Saturday morning breakfast at “The Gathering Place”. As always very good.  

Today I took a bike ride in Ada Drive.  Great route, total miles 9.5.

I did find time for a nap.  We attended Happy Hour.  Light dinner in our room tonight.

Watched an episode of the Citadel.  Sunday will be sunny and warm.

Sunday May 21, 2023.

Left home at 0845 for Trinity Lutheran.  Huge crowd at church today.

Special recognition for high school grads.  We noted none of the grad attended a GR high school.

Also had a Batism.  Today 45  new members were introduced.

Took our Sunday drive south to Barry County.  The fields are all planted waiting for rain.

Today I took a 10 mile bike ride.  Longest ride of year. Shower and short nap.

Tonight we attended Happy Hour.  It was such a nice warm day the HH was held on the outdoor Patio.  Very pleasant.

Apple and toast for dinner tonight.  Nancy finished Saturday’s omelet.

We watched an episode on High Desert.  

Called Debbie because we were having problems getting Britbox. No solution.

Another nice day on Monday. Sun with temps in 70s.

May 19, 2023

 Friday May 19, 2023

Blog time 1330 sitting in den

It was cloudy and threatening rain when got up at 0720.  My super-duper weather app said rain will start at 1100.  I will have to hustle to get my morning routine done before the rain.

Nancy left first thing for her Friday swim at MVP.  

Put on my new super all wool bike jacket and headed out.  Helen got me the jacket for my birthday.  Nephew Jason purchased it for Helen at his bike shop.

The temp was in low 50s but no rain.  It was Friday and usually MVP is crowded but not today.  Completed my calisthenics and headed home.  Total miles 8.5.  I beat the rain.  Took a quick shower.

Nancy walked in as soon as I completed dressing.  We immediately headed to Panera so I could get a bagel and coffee.  After the coffee we stopped at Meijer’s for weekend supplies.

Lunch followed by short nap.  Tonight we attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in the main dining room.  Nancy had the beef special and I had walleye.

Tonight we watched “The Last Thing He Told Me”.  I hate it when we cannot binge watch a show.  This single episode a week, sucks.

Dry weather continues through weekend.

May 18, 2023

 Thursday May 18, 2023

Blog time 1930 sitting in den

We all slept in until 0730 this morning. Helen said sleeping on the couch was comfortable.

This morning we had breakfast at “The Gathering Place”.  Nancy had toast.  Helen had a vegetarian omelette.  I had two eggs over easy with hash browns and toast.  We all had coffee. 

Stopped at Meijer’s for my pills.  Also stopped at Costco so Helen could fill her shopping list.

Helen left for home about 1500.

I finished the afternoon with an 8 mile bike ride. 

Today I went to You Tube to see how to install shaver heads in my Norelco shaver.  It was a great help.  Installed the shaver heads but now I cannot find the part I had to remove to get the heads in.  Another sign of aging?

Nancy and I attended Happy Hour this evening.  We had a very light dinner in our room.

Tonight we watched a show on Apple TV about a former druggie trying to get her life together by becoming a private detective.  It has potential.

Temp in 50s when we headed to bed.  I opened our bedroom window to get some fresh air.  Rain starting late tomorrow morning.  I will have to hustle to get my morning routine done before the rain.

May 17, 2023

Wednesday May 17, 2023

Blog time 1500 sitting in office

Slept in until 0730 today.

Wednesday my easy day.  No MVP today.

Nancy left at 0800 for her Wednesday swim at MVP.

 It was 46 this morning when I put on long bike pants and heavy clothes.  I wear my knickers when morning temps in 50s.

Today I headed out on what I thought would be a 10 mile ride.  I took my normal route to MVP.  Instead of turning on Burton I headed straight north on Forest Hills Ave.  This route has one part that requires some care.  It is the bridge over the freeway.  

Great morning for a bike ride temps in low 50s.  After I negotiated the freeway bridge I continued north until I reach Cascade and then headed home.  I was surprised my mileage was the same as my East Paris route.  I will eliminate the Forest Hills route and continue using East Paris it is much safer.

Changed clothes drove to Meijer’s to pick up prescription. The prescription was not ready. 

Helen arrived at 1500.  We got her settled in before going for a walk around the grounds. Total distance walked 1.2 miles.

This evening the three of us went to Happy Hour.  After HH we headed to the Main dining room.  Helen and I had the salmon and Nancy had the special Mongolian beef with rice.  We all liked the meal.

No TV tonight.  We sat in den talking.  Helen tonight will sleep on the couch.

Temp in 50s when we turned in.  Tomorrow morning it will be cool but still sunny.

May 16, 2023

 Tuesday May 16, 2023

It is great waking up with sun in eyes.  Sunrise today 0616.  Nancy headed out early for her treadmill/stationary workout.  

I fixed an oatmeal breakfast with blueberries.  The temp was in high 40s when left for MVP.  I had to shorten today’s bike ride because at 1100 today Nancy and I are having our photos taken for the Cook Valley Directory.

Did my calisthenics and headed home.  Total of 8.5 miles.  

At home took a quick shower and we headed out for our photos at 1100.  No couples ahead of us so we were in and out of our photo session in ten minutes.

Our Doctor’s office called and recommended I start taking meds to control my high cholesterol.  I agreed and the prescription was sent to  Meijer’s on 28th.  Went to pick up meds and they were sent to another Meijer on 28th.  Meds will be sent tomorrow to correct Meijer.  Since we moved I will change our pharmacy to Forest Hills food which is around the corner from Cook Valley.

This and that:

Michigan Dem controlled legislature continues it pro Union legislation.  I don’t approve.

President Biden still makes many confusing statement.  And he wants to continue as President.  Odds are he will trounce Trump.

My metabolism must be off kilter because I have three layers on and most folks are wearing tees and shorts.

Tonight we attended Happy Hour and then headed to Leo’s for hot dogs,

We watched the final episode of the two episodes of “Dalgliesh”.  It was not very good.  The star is a pompous ass.

Tomorrow will be another sunny mild day.  Great news.

May 15, 2023

 Monday May 15, 2023

Blog time 1630 sitting in office.

Up at 0720.  Today is Nancy’s swim day.  She left for MVP at 0800.

I have to get a blood test this morning.  I have been fasting since 1900 last night.  Spectrum’s lab is an easy bike ride from Cook Valley.  Stopped at the lab on way to MVP.  I was in and out in under 20 minutes.

I was surprised that on Monday MVP was nearly empty.  I did my calisthenics before heading out.  Today I headed east on Burton and then north on Forest Hills Ave.  I stopped at Family Foods which is located on the intersection Cascade and Forest Hills.  I was really hungry since I did not have breakfast.  I bought a prepackaged cup of Yogurt w/granola and blueberries.  It was very good.  I also bought a Starbucks coffee.  Sat down and read the morning papers.  

I got home at noon.  Today my total mileage was 10.5.  Longest ride of the year.

At home I showered and dressed.  After Nancy and I drove to Breton Village.  I bought a warm weather vest at Orvis and Nancy bought two pair of pants at Talbots.  

The temperature first thing this morning was in th 40s.  Now at 1630 it is 73 and sunny.

This afternoon I got the results of this morning’s blood test.  My cholesterol was high.

At 1700 we are attending Happy Hour before our 1745 dinner in the Main Dining room. Happy Hour was well attended.

For dinner tonight Nancy had the chicken special and I stuck with the salmon.

Tonight we watched part 1 of a two part episode of “Dalgliesh”.

Another mild sunny day coming up tomorrow.

May 14, 2023

 Sunday May 14, 2023

Blog time 2100 sitting in office.

Today is Mother’s Day.  We wish all you mothers a great day.

Up at 0720.  Quickly dressed fixed an oatmeal breakfast with blueberries before heading to Trinity Lutheran. 

All the mothers in attendance got a flower.  After church we took our normal 60+ minute drive.  Today we headed west through downtown, followed the Grand River to 28th street.  Stopped at Panera for coffee.

At home I put on bike clothes and took a 8.5 miles ride.  Strong west wind so my route today was mostly N-S.  Took short nap after the ride.

All the kids called Nancy today wishing her a Happy Mother’s Day.  Nancy also got a call from her sister, Peg. Nancy was happy to talk to all the kids.

For dinner tonight we finished the meatloaf purchased from Costco.  I have a blood test tomorrow morning so not food after 1900.

Tonight we watched another episode of “The Good Cop”.  Good show.

We were both in bed before 2200. Weather folks say tomorrow will be sunny, morn temps in low 40s but will reach 70s in PM. 

May 13, 2023

 Saturday May 13, 2023

Blog time 1500 sitting in office

Got up before 0700 this morning.  Dressed and headed to “The Gathering Place” for breakfast.  Got to the restaurant early enough to get our favorite table.  We had the usual, Western Omelette for Nancy and for me oatmeal/w scramble egg.  We both had toast and coffee.  Best breakfast place in GR.

After breakfast we headed north through Ada and made a stop a Meijer’s.  It is the 13th so I bought lottery tickets.  Also got trail mix, oatmeal cookies, grapes, and coke.

Today we took the Fusion.  After dropping off our groceries I took the Escape to fill it up.  I can’t remember the cost per gallon but it might have been $3.33.

Light sprinkle most of the morning but I thought it was light enough that I could take a bike ride.  Today I headed north on East Paris.  First time I have taken this route.  At Cascade Rd I headed east over a large intersection.  I was pleasantly surprised because the sidewalks were safe.

At home showered and had yogurt lunch.  Nancy was doing laundry this morning.  She was done by 1500.

We finished the afternoon with a short walk.

For dinner tonight we had meatloaf with mashed potatoes. We bought this meal yesterday at Costco.  It was very good but much too large.

Tonight we watched “Shrinking” on Apple+.  The show is growing on me.

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day.  It will be a cool cloudy day.  High temps in low 60s.

May 12, 2023

 Friday May 12, 2023

Blog time 1700 sitting in office.

Up this morning at 0700. Another nice day for biking.  Nancy put on swim suit and headed to MVP. 

I fixed oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast.  Put on bike clothes and pedaled 5.5 miles to MVP.  MVP was not very busy today.  It took 27 minutes to do calisthenics.  Quick shower and headed home.  

On ride home I stopped at Spectrum Health Lab to see if my new doc had put an order in for a blood test.  He had I will have the test done on Monday.

Coffee at Talsman furniture stores coffee shop.  The shop is very small but conveniently located on my route home.  I read the local news before heading home.

Nancy headed to book club at 1300.  She now knows the route.  

While she was gone I had lunch followed by short nap. 

A new pair of sketchers was delivered today.  Love the cushioned shoe.  It eases my hip pain.

Activities at Cook Valley are still shut down because of the Covid scare. 

This afternoon I got my auto insurance and home owners policies squared away.  I paid for a years worth of insurance.

Nancy got home from Book Club at 1530.  She said everything went well.

For dinner we went to Shepard’s Grill.  The place was crowded we had to wait 10 minutes for a table.  Nancy had bean soup and I had clam chowder.  Great soups.

Tonight we watched “The Last Thing He Told Me”. I slept through most of the show.  Also watched “Citadel “ on Prime.

Temps in low 60s when headed to bed.  Might get light showers tomorrow.

May 11, 2023

 Thursday May 11, 2023

Blog time 1700 sitting in office

Up with sun at 0700.  Nancy left early for MVP.  Today is her treadmill/stationary bike day.  I took some time picking up.  The cleaning crew comes today at 1000.

It was 62 when I left for MVP.  I overdressed by the time I reached MVP I was drenched.

Light crowd today.  Did my calisthenics before jumping in shower.  Headed home after the shower.  Total miles 8.5

After lunch Nancy and I drove to Costco.  She had to pick up a prescription.  I bought eye drops and we also got a meatloaf dinner for this weekend.

Nancy has Book Club tomorrow at Connie Cadys.  We made a dry run so Nancy will have no problems driving tomorrow.

This afternoon we got word that several residents of Cook Valley have covid.  The management closed all activities including dining room.  Bummer, Nancy will miss her Friday night game of Mexican Train.

We left home at 1700 and headed to Rio Grande restaurant for a Trinity Lutheran Over 60 dinner.  About 30 folks attended.  We had a great time talking, drinking and eating.  Got home from the event at 2100.  Nancy headed straight to bed.  I stayed up to read the WSJ.  Immediately fell asleep and woke at 2200.  Packed it up and headed to bed.

Another warm sunny ahead.  Temps will reach high 70s.  Great news.

May 10, 2023

 Wednesday May 10, 2023

The alarm goes off at 0545.  Breakfast Club Wednesday. The sun was up when I left home at 0630.  Nice being able to drive in daylight.

Good size crowd at BC.  Today we had a group discussion of the China threat in the South China Sea.  Most folks supported a strong US Navy presence in the area.  Very good discussion.  I was surprised at how well informed members were.

Today I drove through our old neighborhood, Ottawa Hills.  It looked great.  Well maintained homes and yards.

At home I put on bike clothes and took a 8.5 mile ride.  Great day for a ride.

Today was Nancy’s swim day.  She said she had no difficulty getting a lane.

I showered as soon as I got home.  Tonight we are going to an event at Meijer’s Garden.  I have to wear a suit.  Brought up my 50 year old navy blue 3 button suit.  It fit, but just barely.

Checked on college fund for the three grandkids. Plan on sending a check to UC Irving soon.

Showed Nancy how to request a refill on the Spectrum Portal.

Signed a ton of insurance forms.

Started picking up for cleaners tomorrow.

At 1700 Nancy and I got dressed for tonight’s Gala at the Gardens.  Even remembered how to tie a tie.  We have attended this event in the past.  Everyone get dressed up.

Surprise!  As we were entering Nancy noted that folks were not dressed up.  She ditched her sweater but I kept my tie on.  I think of the 500 folks in attendance only 5 men wore ties.  Good to be different.

The event was a charity auction.  Last time we attended I was low bidder on a trip to Africa.  Tonight’s auction was totally different.  They auctioned off a lot of garden supplies.  We bid on nothing.  I did give $100 to an education fund.

We sat at a table for ten.  All our table mates were under 35. The women sat on one side of the table and men on the other.  No conversation everybody was busy on iPhone.  If these folks are our future leaders we don’t have a chance.

The food tonight instead single meal was family style.  The food was terrible.  We left early.

Busy day today so I headed to bed as soon as we got home.

Tomorrow will be another warm sunny day.

May 9, 2023

 Tuesday May 9, 2023

Blog time 1600 on Wednesday, another day late.

The sun was up before we were today.  Nancy drove to MVP for her treadmill/stationary routine.  After an oatmeal breakfast I put on bike clothes and pedaled to MVP, 5 miles.  

Sunny with temps reaching 70s today.  About time.

Calisthenics and chin/pull ups today.  I am slowly trying to increase the number reps.  Before my hip surgery a year ago I was able to do 8 each.   Today I am up to 5.

After the workout I pedaled home, total miles 8.5.  Showered and shaved, dressed and made a quick run to bank to deposit IRS refund check.  

This afternoon my sister, Helen, Niece Jennifer and her two daughters, Paige and Molly will visit. Also in the party are Molly’s 3 month’s old baby and Paige’s husband Mike.  

We gave them a quick tour of our building and apartment.  Nancy enjoyed holding the baby.  Our next door neighbor is a friend of Helen’s.  Dave and Chris were home so Helen had the opportunity to talk to them.  

As the group was leaving another resident was walking by. Dr Dean Smith was a classmate of both Helen and Nancy at Albion.  Helen was glad to have the opportunity to talk with Dr Smith.

Nancy and I did attend the Happy Hour starting at 1700.  For dinner tonight we drove to Leo’s for a hot dog.

Tonight we watched another episode of the Coroner.  I gave the show a B+ as did Nancy.

May 8, 2023

 Monday May 8, 2023

Blog time 1500 sitting in den

Up at 0700.  Nancy put on her swim suit and headed for MVP. I fixed oatmeal w/blueberries for breakfast.  It was mild outside, 56, so I put on mild weather bike clothes and pedaled to MVP.  

MVP was crowded this morning.  Why aren’t men in late 20 and 30s not working.  It took awhile to complete my calisthenics routine.

Pedaled home on my long route.  Total bike miles today, 8.5.

At home quick shower and then Nancy and I headed to Meijer’s.  Nancy picked up a prescription.  We also did some shopping.

I found time for a short nap.  At 1700 we headed down to Happy Hour.  Our dinner mates tonight were Lars Larson and wife.  The Larson’s live on Beaver Island during the summer.  We heard all about life on Michigans biggest island.

We talked to both Debbie and Missy tonight.  We watched another episode of “Diplomat” this evening.  It was still warm when we headed to bed.  Tomorrow will be a bright sunny day.

May 7, 2023

 Sunday May 7, 2023

Blog time noon, sitting in den

Up at 0700.  The rain had stopped.  Temp in 60s.

Oatmeal breakfast and then dressed and headed to Trinity Lutheran.  Light attendance at church.

Took a short ride after church.  We did stop at Panera for a coffee and another stop at Meijer for gas.  Gas was $3.34.

This afternoon we are attending lunch at the Moleski’s.  Drinks at 1300 and food at 1400.

I did find time this morning to read the GRP.  Actually I read the funnies and obits.

Left for Moleski’s at 1230.  We brought a bottle a wine as did the two other guests Tim Mask and Conny Cady.  Today Tom and Linda prepared beef and chicken kabobs.  Tom grilled the kabobs over an open flame.  Very good.

In addition, we had drinks and snacks.  We spent two hours eating, drinking and talking.  Some thing old folks enjoy.

We got home at 1700.  Because of all the food at the Moleski’s no dinner tonight.

Nancy and I did find time for a mile walk through Cook Valley’s Wetlands.  Saw Sand Hill Cranes, Geese, Rabbits and Muskrats.

Starting at 1900 watched several sections of “60 Minutes”.  Tonight we also watched another episode of “Coroner”.  I liked, Nancy not so much.

Temps still in 50s when we turned in.  Tomorrow morning will be mild so I can get a bike ride in.  Rain in afternoon.

May 6, 2023

 Saturday May 6, 2023

Blog time 1700 sitting in den

Did not get up until 0730.  Watched a little of King Charles big day.  A lot of color and pageantry.

Dressed and then headed to “The Gathering Place” for breakfast.  We got there late so we did not get our preferred seats.  Oatmeal for me and omelette for Nancy.

After breakfast we took our Saturday ride through the new construction in Ada Village.  Stopped at Costco to get a plate of pinwheels to take to this evening’s Kentucky Derby Party at Cook Valley.

Today I took an 8 mile bike ride.  Great day for a ride. Shaved and showered followed by quick nap.  

At 1700 we grabbed our pin wheels and walked down the hall to the Kentucky Derby party.  The party was well attended.  A lot of great food.  Folks were betting on the race.  Our 90 year old neighbor won $68.  We returned home at 1930.

This and that:

As mentioned yesterday,  I think President Biden not attending King Charle’s coronation was not in good taste.  What happens when we need the UK support on one of his foreign policy adventures.

Today is Mary Joe Reinke’s birthday.  Mary Joe was my age and lived just down the block from us.  We both attended Kindergarten at Bingham School.  Mary Joe tied my shoes for me.  I was a little slow.

The Free Press did a real service to Michigan resident’s when they reported on our Attorney General’s paid Caribbean vacation by a Traverse City lawyer.  

I have no idea how the Tigers are doing.

Tonight we watched another episode of “The Good Cop” before heading to bed.  Bed time temps still in the high 50s.  Just after I turned in a big thunder storm rolled through.

May 5, 2023

 Friday May 3, 2023

Blog time 1400 sitting in den.

Once again a warm sun woke me.  Nancy had major nerve pain in her foot last night so she is staying home.

Oatmeal breakfast/blueberries before bike to MVP, 5 miles.  After my calisthenics I headed home, 8.5 total miles. 

Nancy was up and she said her foot pain had subsided.  We drove to Panera for coffee and baguette.  We ended the morning at Meijer’s.  Refilled our larder.  Meijer’s was crowded.

After lunch took a short nap.  At 1700 we headed down to Happy Hour which was lightly attended.

Our meal mate today was a 92 year old man and his girl friend who had travelled the world.  He kept us entertained.  

I had once again had salmon and Nancy had the pasta special.  Good food as always.

Tonight we watched two series that are have one episode a week.  They were “The Last Thing He Told Me” on Apple and “Citadel” on Prime.  Both good shows but we have to wait a week for another episode.

Temperature was still in 50s when I checked before bed.  Tomorrow will be another nice day with high temps in 60s.

May 3, 2023

 Thursday May 4, 2023

Blog time 1330 on Friday, a day late

The sun streaming through our window on Thursday morning woke me.  Fixed my oatmeal w/blueberries for breakfast.  My stomach still has not returned to normal.

Nancy dressed and drove to MVP for her treadmill/stationary bike routine.  The temp was still in 30s but I wanted to ride my bike so I bundled up and headed out.

Today I took the longer route to MVP, 5 miles.  MVP was not crowded so I finished my calisthenics in good time.  Showered and headed home.  Total bike miles today 8.5.  As soon as I got home I put on civilian clothes and drove to Panera.  Today Nancy is having Karen Horlings over for lunch. So I stayed out of sight until 1330.  I did go to “Bed Bath and Beyond”.  The place was devoid of all merchandise.

I did get home just as Karen was leaving.  She was impressed with our apartment and the food served in the dining room.

I did find time this afternoon for a nap.  While I was napping Nancy continued reading her book club book.

At 1700 we headed down to “Happy Hour”.  Spent an hour talking.  My stomach is still acting up so for dinner I had a bottle of Ensure.

Debbie FaceTimed this evening.  We had a nice talk.

Tonight we watched “The Coroner”. It was good.

This and that:

President Biden is not making friends in the UK.  He will not attend the ceremony for King Charles.  Snubbing one of our prime allies is stupid.

For the first time in 40 years the Dems control both houses of the Mi Legislature.  They are making hay.  Got rid of the right to work law and other anti labor legislation.  Michigan businesses are fuming.

Will our pointy heads in DC ever solve the debt limit crisis?

Cook Valley folks installed screens in our apartment yesterday.

Temp still in 40s when headed to bed.  Tomorrow it will reach 72.

May 3, 2023

 Wednesday May 3, 2023

Blog time 1615 sitting in office

Today was my easy Wednesday. Up at 0730.  Temp in 30s but sun this afternoon.  

Nancy headed out at 0800 for her MVP swim.  Today she is driving alone.

For breakfast this morning I had oatmeal and a bagel at Panera.  Spent some time reading the morning papers. Made a special trip to Ada Bike.  Bought a warm weather cap to wear under my bike helmet.

Got home about noon.  Started a load of laundry.  Put on bike clothes and took a short 4 mile ride, followed by a shower and a nap.

For lunch I had a cup of yogurt.  Today I finished the last of my diverticulitis pills.  Thank God!

In anticipation of warmer weather I took some winter clothes down to our locker.  My super-duper weather app said high temps in 60s for rest of week.

The sun came out at 1600.  Nancy and I took a short walk.

At 1700 we attended Happy Hour followed by dinner in the main dining room.  We sat with another couple and had a nice conversation.  

Tonight we watched an Episode of “Inspector Morse”.  It was a little data but entertaining.

Tomorrow will be sunny and a little warmer.  High temp in 65.  Good day for bike ride.

May 2, 2023

 Tuesday May 2, 2023

Blog time 1600 sitting in office.

This morning it was cold and blustery.  Temp was 36 with sprinkles/snow mix.  No bike ride today.

My diverticulitis is still acting up.  I have one more day of pills so I hope they act fast. 

Oatmeal breakfast with blueberries today.  Nancy drove to MVP.  I did calisthenics and the stationary bike before showering.  Nancy walked on treadmills and pedaled on stationary bike.

After our exercise routine we drove to Panera for coffee and baguette.  We talked and did some reading.  Not much in papers.

At home I took a short nap.  Lunch today was yogurt.

I did make airline reservations for Ca and rearranged our schedules so no conflicts with our trip.

At 1700 we attended Cook Valley’s Happy Hour.  Very well attended.

For dinner I had a bottle of Ensure. For our viewing tonight we switched to Apple+.  Watched an episode of “Ted Lasso” and Harrison Ford’s show “Shrinking”.

Another cold night ahead.  Temps in low 30s.  No snow or rain in forecast.

May 1, 2023

 Monday May 1, 2023

Big day for the Commies.  May Day parades in old USSR.

Blog time 1530 sitting in office.

Up today at 0700.  Temperature was 36, BRR.  High temp today will be in low 40s.  

I had a cup of yogurt for breakfast today.  Nancy is back driving and today she drove us to MVP.  Nancy swam and I did my calisthenics at 50%.  Also spent 10 minutes on stationary bike.

After our MVP time we headed to Panera.  Coffee/baguettes and some light reading.  

Today at 1100 I attended Cook Valley’s monthly Men’s meeting.  One topic that dominated was the raise in rates.  The manager took some major heat.  

For lunch today I had yogurt.  I also added some fiber cereal.  A diverticulitis diet requires fiber according to the internet and my sister, Helen.  She gave me a call today to see how I was doing.  She told me I must eat right.  Three bouts of diverticulitis in a year and they might remove part of your colon.  Ouch!

Took a short nap this afternoon.  Later we attended Cook Valley’s Happy Hour.  We had dinner tonight in the dining.  I had the salmon.  Nancy had chicken.  It was good.

Earlier today I called Missy to see if I still had noise on my FaceTime.  She said the call was loud and clear.  Debbie also FaceTimed this evening.  

Tonight we watched “The Good Cop” on Netflix.  

Checked out window before bed and it was cold and blustery.  More on way tomorrow.

April 30, 2023

 Sunday April 30, the last day of April.

Woke this morning at exactly 0700.  First thing I took my diverticulitis and MG pills.  My stomach is feeling a little bit better.

Fixed oatmeal with blueberries for breakfast.  Temperature was 39 so I put on my winter outfit for church.

Church was very crowded today.  Good to see so many young folks.

After church we took our Sunday drive.  Today we drove east on the back roads.  As the song says, “Spring is Busting out all Over”.  I cannot remember such a pretty spring.

Our drive ended up at Panera near our old Condo.  We had coffee and baguette.

At home I put on warm bike clothes and took a 6 mile drive.

I was cold when I got home so I turned on electric blanket and took a short nap.

After the nap I read the GRP on line.  I really miss a Sunday newspaper that is printed on real paper.

This and that:

President Biden seems to have out foxed his opposition.  No Dem is opposing him which is a shame.

I sure hope the GOP can find someone to run against Trump.  

Hope our politicians are not losing interest in the war in Ukraine.

I had a bottle of Ensure and a piece of toast for dinner tonight.

Missy FaceTimed this evening.  We gave a positive report. Missy comment that our transmission seemed scratchy.

Tonight we watched another episode of “The Citadel”.  Have to wait another week to see episode 3.

Temperature 39 when we headed to bed.  Cold front moving in Michigan’s UP expecting several feet of snow.