Hello From Rockville

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Today was cold, I went to spend time with Harlan but we just stayed in and enjoyed our time together.

There was a birthday party on Harlan's floor. There is one lady resident, Emma, her 98th birthday was celebrated with a birthday cake and ice cream. She is in a wheel chair and her eye sight is poor but she is sharp and fun to talk to.

After cake and ice cream we went back to Harlan's room and relaxed. He was concerned he wouldn't be warm enough, I suggested he sleep under his blankets not on top but he just does not understand why he should change how he sleeps. We'll see how it goes tonight and maybe I can rearrange his bed and take his blanket off of his bed and leave it folded at the foot of his bed so it would be available to cover up with. We'll see how the night goes........Fran

Hello From Rockville

Wednesday, cleaning day and it was needed and as always Sue did a great job. (Sue is the gal that cleans not daughter Sue.) I also did up my laundry, now I have a few items that need ironing. I always iron my jeans and put a crease in them, the other day Harlan noticed my creased jeans and he said he wanted his creased too. I bought him a pair that is soft so I just may crease them and see if he notices the creases because he sleeps in his clothes it wont last.

I took Harlan to get his glasses fixed and because of the thick lenses in his glasses she told me it would be difficult to change the lenses around because even identical frames could be just a little different and the lenses would not stay in. She straightened them out the best she could and had me make an appointment for an eye exam, after the exam we'll try for a studier frame. The bridge of his nose is very narrow and there are very few glasses that fit him well, they need to be able to adjust them over his nose and the heavier preshaped glasses are just too big and can't be adjusted. I asked if they couldn't order frames with a narrower nose piece and I was told no, we'll just have to work what they have.

After the above was finished it was decided that a pizza was needed, once again we gave Pizza Ranch some business and enjoyed their pizza, then back to the VA and I came home....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Sue is back home, we had a good time shopping, visiting and eating. Now it's time to get back into a normal routine, what ever that is.

Harlan called last night asking if Sue had left I assured him he'd see her today and when we stopped to see him he was surprised to see she was still here. He enjoyed spending time with her. This afternoon the three of us went to Perkins and had a treat before Sue left.

Tomorrow I am going to see if I can get Harlan's glasses fixed, he has two pair of glasses with the identical frames and I'd like the good lenses put in the good frames. The ones he is using are so bent that I don't think they can be straightened with out breaking and the lenses in the good frames were coated with an anti glare that is coming off and they are hard to see through, and if they can't change them I'll ask them to order new glasses for him. He really can't see well without glasses.

I'll let you know tomorrow how his glasses turn out, Good Night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Sue leaves tomorrow and she will be missed we have had a good time together.

This morning we went to Cold Spring, Sue "needed" stuff from the Cold Spring Bakery, from there we headed into St. Cloud, a stop at Wells Fargo, Lens Crafters and Target then to the VA. We picked Harlan up and then on to The Pizza Ranch where Becky joined us. We all filled our tummies as we enjoyed the buffet, Oh So Good! From there we went to K-mart and picked up a new stocking cap for Harlan, his old one was really shabby and this one is a better match for his coat. Harlan and I went back to the VA for some R & R and Sue and Becky went shopping. I spent about an hour with Harlan then came home and relaxed.

Becky and Sue came back here and we visited some more before she left about 7.

Harlan called he wanted to know when Sue was leaving he wanted to be sure he'd see her before she leaves.

It was a fun day and Harlan enjoyed his time with the girls, so until tomorrow, Good night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Sue and I took Harlan to church, he felt church was too long. I think he felt that way because we had a Christmas concert first and he was ready to leave after the concert. It was about how angles have been involved from the beginning, very good at lest I enjoyed it.

After church we took him back to the VA and he changed clothes and we had lunch at Applebees had a good lunch then Sue took us back to the VA for a nap and she took off for some shopping and came back about 4:00, we left the VA about 4:45.

Sue picked up Viking printed fleece to make herself a throw then came back here and put it together to take home, it turned out great. Right now she is sleeping on the couch with her new throw keeping her all snuggley and warm, it's bed time and time to snuggle in bed for the night, must wake her up and suggest that.

We have a full day planned for tomorrow and she goes back on Tuesday.

Until tomorrow Good Night.........Fran

Hello From Rockville

After several days of not writing I should update all my "Loyal Readers."

Wednesday evening Rick picked me up, they didn't want me to be alone over Christmas and because of the approaching snow storm they picked me up on Wednesday. Sue was to fly into St. Cloud Christmas Eve, her plans were changed due to weather, her St. Cloud leg of her trip was cancelled but not to Minneapolis. She got to Minneapolis a little after 1:00 PM on Thursday, Sarah and I picked her up. The roads were good and traffic moved well, it was good to see her.

Friday Christmas Day, DeeAnn had a brunch planned, there were 9 of us and the brunch was great, way too much to eat, she tried several new recipes. DeeAnn is very adventurous she takes recipes off of the Internet and they always turn out good.

Today was my turn to entertain, and with Denese and Sue's help everything went great. There were 18 of us and we had do-it-yourself omelets. A note on the omelets, use a quart size freezer Ziploc bag, 2 eggs and what ever you like in an omelet, place in a kettle of boiling water for 13 min. and enjoy. We had fruit, coffee, juice, waffles, toast, breads, and Christmas Cookies.

The best part about today, Harlan spent the afternoon with us, he enjoyed it and we all enjoyed him. Rich picked him up and Sue and I brought him back, he spent about 4 hours with us.

I hope everyone had a nice Christmas, I sure did............Fran

Hello From Rockville

With a snow storm on the way and I will be staying with Rick and DeeAnn until late Friday or early Saturday AM I will not be doing my blog as I'm not sure how to get into to it other then here.

Everone enjoy a stay at home Christmas and I wish all the readers of my blog a Merry Christmas and don't forget that Christ is in Christmas and that's the reason we celebrate, without Christ there would be no Christmas..........Love Fran

Hello From Rockville

It sounds like the weather is such we may enjoy the time inside, not good. I talked to Sue this evening and she is not sure how her travel plans will work out, will Christmas be in Minnesota or Georgia.

I finished up my shopping today so I'm ready for my Saturday brunch and the family, weather permitting.

I spent time with Harlan, they made peanut butter cookies on his floor, we enjoyed the cookies then went shopping, lots of people at the grocery store, getting ready for Christmas or the snow storm.

DeeAnn wants to come and get me tomorrow and take me to their house for Christmas day. She said for me to pack enough for several days, I know I'll enjoy myself. I will miss going to see Harlan but I can keep in touch by phone and if Sue comes Rick can run up to St. Cloud to get her.

Today was a good day and we'll see what tomorrow brings....Fran

Hello From Rockville

I started the day with an appointment for a hair cut and that went just the way it was supposed to, we did have some fog but not enough for a problem. When I came home I did a several loads of clothes and brought some clean shirts in for Harlan.

On the way in to see Him I picked up more stuff for my Saturday brunch, our family will be getting together here in Rockville, weather permitting, it does look like we will have a very white Christmas.

I spent time with Harlan but we did not go any where as my back was giving me a hard time so we just took a nap together, we both slept. I came home and had supper and now it's bed time, will write again tomorrow....Fran

Hello From Rockville

In just a few days it will be Christmas, is everyone ready?

Harlan and I were in church early as we wanted to see the Christmas program and had to be there by 9:30, I was on the road by 7:45. I made a stop at McD for my breakfast and picked up two coffees to go. Harlan had just finished his breakfast and he had to do several inhalers and his neb, get ready and drink his coffee, and we were in church with minutes to spare. It is so much fun to see all the little ones, they are so cute and you really can't hear what they are saying. They start with the nursery and work up to the older ones. They also had a manger scene with Mary, Joseph, the wise men and the shepherds and a real baby as Jesus. We knew the baby was real as he moved and cried, a very good program. After church we went back to the VA, changed clothes and was on our way to The Pizza Ranch when Rick called.

Rick: "What are you doing?"

Me:"We're going out to eat."

Rick: "Where?"

Me:"The Pizza Ranch."

Rick: "So are we, we'll meet you there!"

Later I found out that they were going there even if we'd gone some other place.

We enjoyed the Pizza Ranch buffet with DeeAnn, Rick, Kelsey, Sarah and Wes.

After eating we went to K-Mart then back to the VA, took a little rest and I headed back to Rockville. The the day was a very special day and a wonderful start to the Christmas week.

Will write again tomorrow.......Fran

Hello From Rockville

Today was different it had some bumps in it.

I am getting ready for the brunch I'm having on Saturday with our family, kids grand kids and great grand kids. I talked to Denese this morning and she told me about all the good buys at Cub, a lot of the things I needed for my brunch. On the way into see Harlan I made several stops, one at K-Mart then on to Cub. My first bump was a real bump, as I was leaving Cub to pull on to 33rd I was behind a young lady waiting to make a right hand turn when suddenly she decided she was sticking out too far, threw her car in reverse and before I could react she hit me, BANG! No real damage just a few scratches I will look my car over in the front to see if it's worth an insurance claim. I did get information from her.

After that little incident I went on to see Harlan and found the next "bump". He was not feeling good, he did not want to go any where just wanted to sleep. He voice was "husky" again it sounds like he is getting a cold, this has been going on for a week about every other day he doesn't feel good. His vitals were checked and every checked out okay, temp, BP, oxygen level and heart rate. He said he just wanted to sleep. Tomorrow when I go to get him ready for church I'll see how he feels and if his isn't up to getting ready for church I'll go, then come back and see how he is doing, tomorrow should be okay as this seems to be an every other day thing.

We'll see how tomorrow goes we are suppose to get a little snow so until tomorrow good night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Today was an exciting day! Harlan called this noon and told me, "The Kids from Church came to sing, lots of little ones and you should have been here." He was so excited, he talked about it all afternoon. He also said Pastor and Mrs. Campbell were there too. It was a busy day for him as today was the day for their Christmas party. I, Denese, DeeAnn and Sarah joined him. There was music, food and gifts. After all the activities that went on he wanted Denese and I to take him out for a treat, we went to Perkins and he had a piece of Apple Carmel pie with ice cream so did Denese and I had a cup of chicken soup. He was tired when we got back but he did not want to lay down because he might miss something, oh yes, he got a chocolate chip cookie from Perkins to take home.

He also talked about it being Friday, tomorrow would be Saturday and we needed to think about getting ready for church on Sunday.

Today was good and tomorrow should be too........Fran

Hello From Rockville

Harlan was not having a good day. When I went in to see him he was sleeping, I woke him up and he didn't know where he was, "Am I at the shop? No, I don't think so." He answered his own question. He was really confused and he asked me several times why I was there, each time I told him I come everyday but he asked me over again, his thinking was confusing to me. He didn't ask to go any where, we laid on his bed and chatted about his St. Louis park shop and the people that spent a lot of time there - Gill (Brothen) and Dick (Anderson), he seemed to know who I was talking about. He remembered that Gill lived down the street from the shop. I asked him what he did in his shop and he said he fixed things. He could not remember the shop address but he remembered St. Louis Park.

He did not eat dinner today and when I called him this evening to remind him to go for supper it sounded like he would.

We had our Christmas dinner here tonight, it was a candle light dress up time and most of us were dressed up, it was so pretty, lace table cloths on the tables with candles a really fun and pretty evening, we had great food. I had a special guest, Sarah joined me and if it works she'll do it again.

When I see Harlan tomorrow I hope he is feeling better as tomorrow is his Christmas party, Denese and I think DeeAnn and maybe Sarah will join us. So until tomorrow...Good Night.......Fran

Hello From Rockville

The weather is a bit warmer then it has been not where it should be but okay.

Today was laundry and house cleaning day I also got some Christmas cards in the mail.

Yesterday's paper listed places I could go and get my flu shot (H1N1), I also did that today. There were a lot of people there but it went fast, I don't understand but I didn't have to pay for it, they took no insurance information.

After my shot I went in to see Harlan, he had his coat, gloves and stocking cap out and he was ready to get out for a break. I guess because he hadn't been out since Sunday I didn't blame him, we had pizza at The Pizza Ranch and I was disappointed it just was not as good as usual and I don't know why.

We stopped at K-Mart then back to the VA and I headed home.

Tomorrow night we have our Christmas dinner here, it's to be a candle light dress-up ham dinner, should be fun. Sarah is going with me, I love having family visit and I'm looking forward to having a good time...........Fran

Hello From Rockville

Today was another cold day, as I drove in to see Harlan the temperature was right around zero and when I came home it was about the same.

I stopped and picked up several pairs of jeans for him to try on and I need to get him another size larger, he is wearing 34's and I picked up 35's but I think I need to get 36's, I'll exchange them tomorrow. Fleet Farm is on the way, that's where I got them. I did not take him out because of the cold weather, if it's warmer tomorrow we'll try for a treat some where in the area.

The last few days he has not been feeling good but today he seemed back to normal, I'm glad about that.

Not a lot to say will update you tomorrow on what we'll do, GOOD NIGHT......Fran

Hello From Rockville

I had an appointment for a blood draw this morning but I had some symptoms of a bladder infection, as long as I was going in for medical reasons I had that checked out too and sure enough I've now added an antibiotic to my daily pill routine, a 10 day stint. I had to wait for my meds so had lunch in Cold Spring while I waited, then home and in to see Harlan.

This morning when I called and reminded Harlan to go for breakfast his voice sounded like he was getting a cold and it didn't sound much better at noon. I picked up coffee at McD on the way in to see him because if he was getting a cold I was not about to take him out, it is so cold. We had out coffee together with cookies I had brought in to him then took a nap and guess what, we both slept, not a lot as our snoring interrupted each others sleep. After all that napping it was time for me to head home, he didn't even walk me to the elevator so I know he is just not feeling okay. When I checked on him later I found out he did not eat dinner but ate a good supper. I'll see how it goes for him tomorrow.

As Red Skeleton used to say, "Good Night and God Bless" each and everyone.....Fran

Hello From Rockville

My Sunday was like every other Sunday. I left home at 8:30 stopped at McD for breakfast and picked up coffee to take to the Va and helped Harlan get ready for church. It is cold so we dress warm and when I pick him up the car is warm which is nice. We went back to the VA and put on comfortable clothes then to Culver's for a hamburger, we skipped the ice cream, just too cold. We made a stop at Aldi's for a few groceries, I signed up to bring scalloped potatoes to our Christmas dinner on Thursday and found a few more things I needed. After shopping we went back to the VA and watched the Vikings win again, they are doing great.

Tonight I went up to the community room and we played some 500 and I never won a game but we do have fun. I treated the players to chocolate chip cookies, we played, munched and went home, so until tomorrow, Good Night.....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Harlan does not know how to use the call button in his room so he calls me when he has a problem and either I help him fix it over the phone or I call the desk and they go down to help him. Today he called and I did not understand what his problem was and I was about to leave to go in to see him so I told him I'd take care of it when I got in. When I got in we talked to Paula and everything was okay but she said that they have tried to get him to use the call button, he just does not understand how to use it and have given up on teaching him. I'm glad he can call me because I do call the desk and they have helped him.

Paula asked me if I wanted them to get his hair cut as it really needed cutting and he wants it left longer then a "buzz job" but he can't keep it combed and he naps so much it always looks messy, today I gave him a hair cut, it needs no combing and will be easy to shampoo. He also decided he wanted a shave and I promised him I'd shave him when we got back from bingo.

Today was bingo and he played well but when we got back to his room he said he'd rather go to McD for coffee then have me shave him, I suggested he shave in the morning, hope he does for church. I try not to mention tomorrow is church as he gets stressed over getting ready for church up to the point of not sleeping at night.

After coffee at McD I went home and mixed up a batch of chocolate chip cookies, they are so good. Until tomorrow Good Night.....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Oh, what a fun day today was! DeeAnn and I baked cookies I think we made five different kinds. We divided them up, I took a small plate to Harlan and also some to the staff at the VA to enjoy and I still have a lot here. I'll also take a plate of cookies to our Christmas dinner here next Thursday and if there are any left we'll enjoy them for our Christmas brunch on Saturday after Christmas.

Harlan was excited about the cookies I brought him he immediately had one and I hope he will eat the rest of them, sometimes he isn't hungrey for treats and just lets them sit. Today I took him to McD for coffee, I had a great day and now it's time for bed, so it's good night...Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Hello From Rockville

After an early start in the day, I left here at 7:15 for an 8:00 A.M. appointment at CDI. It was a cold morning here, the thermometer in the car registered the temperature as being -13, in spite of the cold the morning everything went well.

When I was done (CDI is not far from the VA) I went in to see Harlan and because I had not eaten we went for McD breakfast. He had breakfast (the second one) and coffee too. We also did a little shopping as I needed stuff for my cookie baking.

DeeAnn came up to bake cookies, we did this last year and had fun doing it together. We have baked three batches of cookies and will do more tomorrow. Because we were so busy baking Sarah brought us dinner from Carside To GO (Applebee's) DeeAnn and I shared a hamburger, very good.

The Girl and Boy Scouts sang Christmas Carols in the hallway tonight then did more Caroling and served us goodies in the community room.

Today has been a busy but fun day, it will be fun to see what tomorrow brings..... Fran

Hello From Rockville

It appears we have our first snow storm of the season. It's nice to be snug at home and not out in the snow, cold and wind.

I took the car in for an oil change and then went on to spend time with Harlan. He said he didn't want to go out in this snowy weather, they were making cookies in the dinning room and we had a peanut butter cookie and coffee as our afternoon treat. I came home early just to get ahead of the weather and evening traffic.

I will stay home tomorrow as I'm getting ready for a special x-ray on Thursday, the prep is the same as having a colonoscopy, it's just better to say close to home. I have things I need to get done, an unfinished sewing project that needs completing and my Christmas cards and maybe a bit more decorating. I'll keep in touch with Harlan by phone, so until tomorrow, Good Night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

I did not go in to see Harlan today instead I went with Marie and Rale & Mel to see The Basement Ladies Christmas. It was funny and we had a good time with many laughs. We left from The Whitney Center in St. Cloud and had lunch at The Old Country Buffet in Maple Grove then on to the play and we left the driving to the bus driver. I talked to Harlan several times and things went well for him. I hope to see him tomorrow weather permitting, a winter storm is in progress and heading this way.

We have our monthly and annual board meeting tomorrow so I won't be able to see him in the morning, I have a car appointment for an oil change tomorrow afternoon too, a busy day. It just could be a day to stay home.

Until tomorrow Good Night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Today being Sunday Harlan and I went to church then out to eat, we chose Applebees but we changed clothes before we went as the restaurants aren't as busy around 1:00 as they are at noon. After lunch we went back to the VA for a nap then I went home.

It seems that the problem with the alert alarm Harlan wears has not been resolved, it did not work when we left today but did when we returned, they have to get that fixed.

We had snow most of the day but no accumulation. This morning the wind chill was 2 degrees, brrr! It looks like we'll have snow on Tuesday, I don't like that but what can I expect after all it is winter.

Today was a very good day so good night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

I found a string of lights and put them around the front patio door, I have them on the inside, just too cold to put them up outside, we are on the west slightly to the north.

Because it is cold I didn't want to take Harlan out so on the way into St. Cloud I made two stops one for gas and another at McKay's for an oil change appointment. Then I picked up McD coffee and brought in the cookies we had left over from yesterday's stop at McD, and wouldn't you know as soon as I brought out the cookies Harlan remembered I hadn't eaten my share of the cookies and he knew they were mine, he was willing to eat half of them and he shared a chocolate chip cookie with me that was left for him to eat for his afternoon snack.

At 3:00 we went to the dinning area and he played bingo, he is doing really well at finding the numbers, he needs very little help from me. After bingo we took a little rest then it was time for me to leave. I had just gotten to the car and my phone rang it was Harlan and he needed to know if tomorrow was Sunday, I try not to talk about Sunday as he worries so about it. He said someone there had told him tomorrow was Sunday so that secret is out and we'll see how it goes this evening, I hope he sleeps well.

He has gained some weight and one thing I have noticed he does not complain about being cold and that's a very good thing. He very seldom mentions cold feet, that could change with the colder outside temps.

He did mention that his squeak was back in his shoes but nothing was mentioned about yesterday and the trips to the elevator to check things out.

Until tomorrow have a good night.......Fran

Hello From Rockville

DeeAnn called me this morning and wanted to take me to St. Paul to visit Doris and Bob as she had things to bring to Jenny but because of my busy day it just wouldn't work. I promised to do the mail for here and that's at 9:30 which didn't leave enough time for a trip to St. Paul and to be back at the VA by 12:30 for a brunch.

Today I went to my first Christmas gathering. I met with the VA support group for a "brunch" at 12:30, each of us brought something to snack on while we visited, we had a good time and satisfied our tummy's. We will not meet again until the third week in January because of all the things going on during the Christmas season.

We have cold weather with a bit of snow and it will be cold for a while, no above normal temps.

There was a lot of excitement on Harlan's floor today as Channel 4 came in and taped several residents as they were given gifts from a lady from Maple Grove, she wanted to thank the men and women who had served our country to keep it free. Today was also the day chosen to decorate Harlan's floor, they did a beautiful job and it looks great.

Making the system work that alerts the staff when someone tries to get on the elevator on Harlan's floor has been a challenge and today was the day to fix the problem. They had Harlan and I try getting on and off the elevator several times, they changed the "bracelet" on his ankle and Harlan did not know what was going on he thought they were working on his shoes but he didn't know why. He has a squeak in one shoe and when he wears his hearing aid he can hear it and today when they got done with everything they were involved with the squeak in his shoe was gone. He told me he wanted the squeak back because he liked it and he couldn't understand why they took his squeak away. Maybe it will be back tomorrow.

We did a coffee break at McD, we had a bag of cookies and coffee and when we got back is when they worked on fixing the alarm. He was better today and wasn't as tired, I think most of his up and down moods are caused from lack of sleep at night, some times he stays awake at night and then sleeps during the day and I come and interrupt his sleep.

Today was a good day and tomorrow should be good too....Fran

P.S. I reread my blog for today and do hope it makes sense to you, I'm not sure if it does, sorry.

Hello From Rockville

When I went in to see Harlan he was sleeping, when he woke up and looked at me said something I did not understand followed by " Sue, Oh! I'll get it right eventually." Then he laughed when he realized his conversation did not make any sense. He said he didn't feel good and he seemed more depressed then earlier this week and wasn't sure if he even wanted to go anywhere but we did go to Perkins and he had a sandwich. If he seems down tomorrow I'll check and see if he is taking all his meds because I leave before he takes them.

Tonight we had our monthly birthday party I think we were 11 for coffee and treats that's about the number that show up for that. I wish more people here would get involved with the activities we have, I guess some just like to stay home.

Today was a quiet day maybe tomorrow will bring more excitement, so until then, Good Night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Brrrrr it's cold! I know, it could be worse.

Today was my cleaning day, it's sure nice to have a clean home again. I also have it looking a bit like Christmas, I did a little decorating and that will be enough for this year.

Harlan and I stopped at Home Depot, I need a small step ladder or step stool and DeeAnn had picked up one there, she thought might be what I wanted, either I didn't see what she had found or it's just not the one for me. We then went to the grocery store, you probably think I shop a lot for groceries but each time I go I don't pick up much and Harlan likes to get out and it's a place I can always find a few things I need, he helps by pushing the cart for me. Many times after shopping he thinks I need help in bringing the groceries in. Today his concern was that I not leave any groceries in the car as they might freeze.

Our treat today was pizza as the grocery store and The Pizza Ranch are not far apart.

I see that the new elevator is in at the VA but not in service, I hope when it is in operation that the alarm Harlan wears works better then it does now, again today it didn't make a sound when he got on to leave but it responded loudly when he came back, not good.

Until tomorrow and I'll write again good night....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Last Year I did no Christmas decorating, I just didn't feel like I wanted to because Harlan and I always decorated together. This year I decided I needed to make this place a bit more festive. I have taken out and set up some stuff. In my Christmas stuff were several strings of lights, I picked up some hooks I could fasten to the windows in the bedrooms and I put the lights in the windows so it looks pretty from outside. I did this this morning and then I went down and helped decorate in the community room. Many hands make fast work and we were done by noon. We shared several pizzas and after eating I went into see Harlan.

Harlan and I went to Sam's Club and I picked up several mixes for cookies and I found a pretty turtle neck. We also walked through a dollar store and only found night light bulbs, I don't think I'll stop there again, it was a very messy dollar store and I find that so many dollar stores are anything but dollar stores they are dollar plus stores.

We did our treat thing at McD, coffee and shared a bag of McD cookies. The day went well and now it's bed time will share again tomorrow....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Every three months various members of the staff have a meeting concerning Harlan and I'm included. We discuss things on how we can make things better for him or different things to help him. Today when we talked I mentioned that the bracelet he wears doesn't always sound an alarm when he gets on the elevator but it usually does when he gets off. My concern is that if he gets on the elevator and leaves with someone he will not know how to get back and it would not be known to the staff that he left. He can not go down the stairs as those doors lock when he is near them or if some opens that door if he is near an alarm goes off and will not stop "screaming" until its turned off. I know he "tests" the stair doors as he complains he can't get out because they won't open for him and he is concerned about getting out if there should be a fire. We talked about how much the new antidepressant is helping him, he will join in with other residents in activities that they do, he may not stay long but before he wouldn't even leave his room. I'm grateful for the staff and how much they care about the residents and the good care he gets.

Today Harlan and I took a trip to Walmart then we made a stop at McD for coffee and back to the VA. I left at 4:30 just after the sun sets but before it gets dark. I talked to him at 5:30 and told him it was supper time and he should go eat, I told him I had put a potato in the oven to bake for me for my supper so he asked me what I was going to have with the potato I told him I wasn't sure his response, "I sure am not going to come live with you if that's all you're having to eat!"

Tomorrow we will decorate the inside for Christmas, we have put lights up out side earlier on one of the warmer days and also put the Manger scene out. There are a few more things to put out side but we will not do the decorating we had done several years ago. We'll meet at 9:30 to work then take a pizza break at 11:30, then finish up decorating and we should finish by the time I go into St. Cloud.

That's it until tomorrow.....Fran

Hello From Rockville

Yesterday when Harlan wanted to know what day it was I told him I needed to check my calendar so I never told him, I wanted to see if he didn't know that Sunday was the next day he would be less concerned about getting ready for church. It worked, I did not get phone calls from him with concerns - How would he get ready? What would he wear? When would I get there? I can't reassure him that everything will be okay and we'll not be late to church. I called him before I left here and suggested he shave and put his hearing aids in and at that time I told him that today was Sunday and I'd be there to get him ready.

After church we go eat somewhere but first we go back to the VA and dress in comfortable clothing, jeans, comfortable shoes, etc. When I asked him were he wanted to eat he says that place that starts with a P but couldn't remember the name, as you may have guessed by now it's Perkins and he wanted to go right from church. We went over to Perkins and there were very few places to park so I knew the wait would be LONG!!! We went back to the VA changed clothes then went back to Perkins, parked in a handicap, were seated and waited on immediately as it was near 1:00 so much better then noon.

We had a good breakfast then went back to Harlan's room to watch the game. I did nap, Harlan complained about that, he couldn't hear the game above my snoring! We had a good day, good church sevice, good fun and good fellowship, on that note Good Night until tomorrow...Fran

Hello From Rockville

Walt, Becky, Kate, Kristen and Luke came up. We picked Harlan up and went to The Pizza Ranch for a wonderful buffet. I had eaten at the buffet before but Harlan had never done so, it was a new experience for him and he enjoyed it and ate well. He couldn't believe how busy it was, when we go in the afternoon some time we are the only ones there. The buffet consists of thing other then pizza - chicken, gravy, cheesy bread, and several kinds of potatoes including mashed potatoes and they have several dessert pizzas which are more like coffee cake then pizza. If they do not have the pizza you want they will make one to order for you, serve you some and then put it on the buffet table for everyone to try. We had a good time together, a lot of chatting and eating. After stuffing our selves The Cafferys left for home and Harlan and I went to the VA where we laid down and took a little nap, then I headed home.

I didn't get to the VA when Harlan thought I should have been there so he was a little concerned about me but when he saw the guests I brought along he was okay.

Until tomorrow Good Night........Fran

Hello From Rockville

It's BLACK FRIDAY and the stores are packed, how do I know? Harlan and I went to Fleet Farm to fill the car, hardly anyone at the pumps but the parking lot was packed and it was a zoo! I'm glad I wasn't shopping there. We had a treat at Perkins and they were literally empty so everyone must be shopping and not eating.

When we went back to the VA, just as we were entering the grounds Harlan says, "I'm not going to say it!" I didn't say anything but was wondering what he meant, I guess he knew I was confused so he explains by saying "I'm not saying what that sign says!" Then I knew what he was talking about, every time we drive in and when he sees the 25 mile speed limit sign he always says, "Two Bits" and my response is "You always say that". So today he didn't. We had a good laugh over that and wondered where the "two bits" came from referring to the number 25. Maybe some one can fill me in on that. At times I marvel at what he does remember and it is current stuff, he never talks about what has happened in the past, he just doesn't remember. These little things are what gives me joy when I'm with him and they make precious memories.

Becky, Walt and family will come up tomorrow to see us, Harlan always enjoys seeing the family and we'll go somewhere and enjoy a fun time together.

Hello From Rockville

I am thankful for so many things and today was a day filled with so many blessings. If you remember yesterday's blog, Harlan had asked about today. When I had made reservations for dinner across the street I had told them six but there were only five of us going. After much thought and discussion with family I decided to take Harlan. I called the VA and cancelled his dinner then went in about noon to get him, he said he was tired and wasn't sure if he wanted to go, just not like him, but he got ready and we went to Rockville for our Thanksgiving dinner. I was glad he decided to go as I had cancelled his dinner and he would have had nothing to eat. We had a wonderful dinner, several kinds of potatoes, jello salad, ham, turkey, cranberries, corn, (no green bean casserole) stuffing, gravy, rolls and banana bread, and anything we wanted to drink, I had coffee and pop, this was topped off with pie - blue berry, apple or pumpkin and as much as you wanted. Rick, DeeAnn, Adam and Kelsey joined us. After stuffing ourselves we left, I took Harlan back to the VA and the rest retired across the street for naps. Because Harlan was not taken home he had no problem going back so that went well. I stayed for a short time with him and he decided he needed a nap, he walked me to the elevator and he went back and laid down.

After I got back home I had another blessing, Myrna stopped, she has been staying with her daughter Sue in St. Cloud, she had had surgery about 10 days ago and needed a place to recoup and a place where her dog was welcome, it was good seeing her and she looked so good, her plans are to return to Crosslake on Saturday.

Today was a very good day, I hope yours was as well.............Fran

Hello From Rockville

Happy Thanksgiving! Is everybody ready?

This morning Diane called to see if I would help with a project for Rockville. Rockville had purchased used street Christmas decorations and some of the bulbs had burned out and needed replacing there were 9 of us that worked together. We had fun doing this and of course it also helped our city.

After lunch I went to spend time with Harlan and we had a good day together. We did a little shopping, first to the bank for money then to Bed Bath and Beyond, and we topped the day off with pizza. After pizza a stop at K-Mart as we were next door and then it was time for me to go home.

I try to call Harlan each day at meal time to remind him to go to the dinning area to eat and I think it is working I think he has been going to each of his meals.

He called me this evening wondering about Thanksgiving, I have to think about what I should do.

Until tomorrow, Good Night......Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Thanksgiving is just around the corner is everyone ready?

Today was rainy along with some fog, but it is warm for November and so far no snow. It sounds like that is about to change, just some slush no significant amount. In spite of the rain I had a good day with Harlan. I stopped at Aldi's as I needed potatoes and a few things, then a stop at McD for coffee to go with mini candy bars I picked up. Because of the rain I hadn't planned to take Harlan out, the reason for the McD coffee. He was disappointed so after his neb treatment we did venture out, he looks forward to getting away from the VA and the rain had stopped so it was a good time for a break. He went for the Pizza Ranch and we were not disappointed, very good. While we waited for the pizza I went next door to K-Mart for ink, my printer was running low and I hate to run out in the middle of making cards or anything.

Today was so much better then yesterday, I think he had a better nights sleep Monday night.

His good days far out weigh the down ones and I appreciate each and every day we have together either good or bad, so until tomorrow I love you all....Fran

Hello From Rockville
I went to spend time with Harlan, I had an appointment and was going to have him go with me but he seemed so tired and he wanted to sleep so I just let him sleep and I came home. I called to remind him to go for supper his response to me was he hadn't had breakfast so why would he be going to supper. Many times he doesn't sleep at night and maybe last night was one of them. If tomorrow is the same I'll have to check and see if he is getting his days and nights turned around. So until then Good Night...Fran

Hello From Rockville

Today was a very good day, in spite of the drizzle and fog and no sun. It didn't start out that way, I over slept. I did make up time as we were in church in plenty of time. So many Sunday mornings Harlan calls me but not today when I needed him to I think he slept in too as he skipped breakfast.

After church we went back to the VA and changed clothes then to Applebees for lunch and we had a good lunch, then back to the VA where we watched the Viking win followed by Atlanta loosing. I talked to Sue, I thought she may be an Atlanta fan but she is not and was glad NY won.

I did not spend as much time with Harlan as I usually do because of the foggy condition.

Tomorrow will be busy as I have a Dr. Appointment, a follow-up on my colonoscopy it's at 2:00 and I am taking Harlan with me, it's near Perkins so we'll do our treat there. With a 2:00 appointment I wouldn't be able to spend much time with him so by taking him along we'll have several hours together. I'll wash clothes before I go see him.

I'll write again tomorrow........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

November has been a great month, so far no snow but we have had our share of clouds. With Thanksgiving not far away my wish would be no snow until December.

Harlan called me several times during the night, the first call came just after I had gotten to sleep and it was a deep sleep, I heard the phone ring but wasn't sure where it was and by the time I was awake enough to figure out what was going on it quit ringing. The second time (about 1:30)I was still awake from the first call, he called me to tell there had been a LOUD BANG and the power went off and he had no TV to watch, my suggestion - go to sleep. He called again at 10 to 2 and complained the power was off and he couldn't watch TV and again I told him most people were in bed sleeping and he should do the same thing, he never called again I hope he went to sleep.

I went in to see him a bit before 1:00, I wanted to give him a hair cut and he has bingo at three so I needed enough time. I made coffee and brought cookies with, we enjoyed a cookie and coffee before I tackled his hair. He really needed the hair cut and he looked so much better but he didn't understand why I would give him a hair cut in the winter because he needed his hair for warmth.

After bingo we went back to his room to visit and watch TV, we were just talking about nothing in particular he says, "I feel like I haven't slept maybe I was on the phone too much."

We didn't go out for a treat, the coffee and cookies I brought was treat enough.

Tomorrow is Sunday and we'll go to Church, so until tomorrow Good Night...Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today was a quiet day. I went in to the VA before 1:00 as the support group for memory loss meets at 1:00. Today we planned our Christmas luncheon, it will be in two weeks and we'll bring things to snack on just light eating, coffee will be served and we have a room to use in the basement of building 51, the first building Harlan was in.

Harlan called me several times while I was at our meeting, I didn't answer, he was quiet anxious for me to get in to see him as Pastor Campbell had stopped to see him and he thought I should be there too. Usually when Pastor stops to see Harlan I am there, I'm sorry I missed him. Harlan like Pastor Campbell and I think Harlan's spirits are lifted with his visits, I know mine are.

Before I went in I set up my bread maker up to bake a loaf of bread, it was nearly done when I got home and it smelled so good when I walked in the door.

We had pop corn in the dinning room at the VA before we left for our treat at Perkins. Today Harlan had a piece of Carmel apple pie but he skipped the ice cream and I had a bowl of chicken noodle soup, he had hot chocolate and I had coffee.

He does let me know he wishes he could leave with me when I go home but he doesn't dwell on it, and I always assure him I'll be back tomorrow.

They tell me takes all his meds as he should and he does seem okay with being there. Some days he doesn't want to eat and if he skips a meal or so that is okay too as his weight seems okay.

Enough for today, Good Night.....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I helped prepare mashed potatoes for our Thanksgiving social this evening. I pealed them before I went in to see Harlan so when I got home they were ready to be cooked and mashed. We eat at 6 when we meet for our "pot-luck", it's not a true pot-luck because we do post a suggested menu.

I needed a few groceries, I took Harlan along to Cashwise from there we went to McD for coffee and a roll (I picked rolls up at the grocery store.) While we were at McD we heard a funny grinding sound like something really hard was being ground up, so I asked Harlan what he thought it was, his reply, "I don't know but I don't want to eat it !" He does come back with some unexpected answers.

Harlan is okay with me leaving about sunset, he may call me when I get home and sometimes I don't hear from him at all. I try to call him at supper time to remind him to go eat and I hope he does. This was a good day, we have had many of them in a row, I feel the antidepressant is doing what it's suppose to do and I'm thankful for that, so until tomorrow, good night.....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Sue, my cleaning lady was here and sparkled up my place and the way the kitchen looks she needs to do it again. I grocery shopped and have a few things that need to find a place to hide until needed.

I met DeeAnn for lunch along with Wes and Sarah, we chowed down at The Pizza Ranch, a great place and oh so good, it's not just a pizza place.

After eating we went to Aldi's, I had this $10.00 coupon I had to use up and the requirement was to spend $40.00 which I'd not be able to do by myself but between the two of us we managed to accomplish the job.

After the above jobs were done I headed to Mill Ends for some fabric, just some odds and ends to finish up a project and then on to see Harlan. He was sleeping when I got there but was ready to get out for a while this afternoon.

After three months of being The Service Man of the Month his pictures are finally down, he was glad to see them go. I think part of the reason he was glad to see them go was that he wasn't able to explain them to anyone when he was asked, he just didn't remember where they were taken. We went to Fleet Farm and Harlan put gas in the van and we washed it, it didn't get clean, I complained and they gave me a coupon for another wash and it helped but still not a good job, it still beats me trying to wash it.

Tomorrow will be our Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, there are nearly 30 signed up so we will be a large group, as they say "The more the merrier", we hope so.

I'll write more tomorrow..........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Just as I was ready to go in to see Harlan he called, he wanted to know if I needed any help, I wasn't sure what he meant and he explained that if I needed to gas up the car or if I needed help grocery shopping he was available would love to help me. My thought was how thoughtful of him and I told him I was sure I could use his help as I need to go to the grocery store. When I got into see him he was laying down but got up immediately and was ready to go. I am bringing a tray of fresh veggies and dip for our Thanksgiving social pot-luck on Thursday and I needed to pick up fresh vegetables. He likes to push the cart, it gives him support when he walks and he gets the plastic bags to put the stuff in. After our trip to the grocery store we went to McD for coffee and cookies again, he has gained enough weight that I may have to get him new jeans they are getting too hard for him to button so we need to forgo the pie, pizza and ice cream for a while.

He does not understand why he can't just go outside when ever he wants to so the locked doors to the stairs bug him, I think he tries them occasionally and they won't open, I'm thankful for that.

Today was a good day and Harlan was a joy to be with and I'm so thankful for each and every day we have together, so until tomorrow, Good Night..........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today was a fun day starting with a knock on my patio door. Harold and Marilyn paid me a surprise visit then took me out for lunch. We went across the street had good food and good conversation. They are doing well and enjoy their new home, it was so good to see them.

After lunch I went in to spend time with Harlan. They told me Harlan did not eat dinner, we checked his dinner out and they would have heated it up for him but he did not want it so took off for Walmart and picked a few things then on to McD for coffee and cookies. He did not know why he didn't eat, he thought that maybe they hadn't reminded him to eat. I went home just after sun set then I called him at 5:30 and reminded him to go eat supper. If I knew when lunch was maybe I should call him to remind him to go eat. He was in a good mood while I was there and we had a good time together.

His display of pictures will come down on Wednesday, there will be new ones in his place, Harlan is ready for that, three months is long enough.

Until tomorrow Good Night........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Harlan was quite anxious about me coming in to pick him up for church, he called several times during the night and again this morning. If I'm on the road when he calls (or anyone for that matter) I do not answer the phone, driving is a full time job and I can't multitask so it's best for every one's sake I drive and ignore the phone. When I got to McD I checked and sure enough he called, I talked to him and assured him I'd be there shortly, I had my usual and picked up two cups of coffee and headed to the VA. The phone rang and my hands were full, purse, coffee, suit & accessories and a bag with shoes so again the phone went unanswered and when I got to his room he was so sure I had forgotten about him and I wasn't coming, he had one of the staff with him trying to reassure him I'd be there, he was so glad to see me. I was told he did not sleep much last night, I wish there was some way I could take that anxiety away from him and make him feel better.

We went to church then back to the VA, changed clothes then out for food. We went to IHOP for chow, we were very satisfied with our breakfast/dinner, then back to the VA and the Vikings game, they won!!!. I find it is comforting to Him if we can relax together on his bed which we did while watching the game. I left him at three as I had a commitment later in the day and I didn't have to drive at sunset.

We had a good time together and he was okay with me leaving earlier then my usual time, so until tomorrow, Good Night.....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today is Saturday and tomorrow is Sunday. Harlan always worries about Sunday. "What will I wear?" "What time will you get here?" "What should I do to get ready?" "Do I have to eat breakfast?" I usually get several calls asking the same questions over again, I try to reassure him that it will work as it always does, and he agrees that it does but he still needs reassurance that it will be okay each and every Sunday.

DeeAnn left this morning as she had to go to work today, I washed clothes.

I went in to see Harlan about 1:30 and we went to McD for coffee and shared one of their bags of cookies. McD cookies are like animal crackers instead of animals they are McD figures mostly Ronald McDonald they have a slight lemon flavor and are good with coffee, when we got there today they made a fresh pot of coffee for us.

After our coffee break we went back and Harlan played some bingo, he does pretty well but does need some help.

I left at 4:45 just about sunset to avoid driving into the sun, our days are getting shorter, every day we loose 2 to 3 minuets of daylight.

I'll be in touch tomorrow and let you know how it goes, today was good, it went well....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today went very well. I had an appointment for a colonoscopy, DeeAnn picked me up at 8:45 and off we went to the St. Cloud Surgery Center. Everyone was so nice and everything went well, I was out of there around noon feeling great. DeeAnn brought up some of her home made turkey vegetable soup and because I had not eaten for nearly two days the soup would have been great no matter how it tasted but believe me it was delicious and I inhaled it, no leftovers.

The grocery store in Cold Spring was having their annual food tasting event, needing more food after a short rest we went for that and oh did they have treats and great ideas for holiday serving, we left there stuffed, no dinner tonight!!

About 4:00 we headed into St. Cloud to spend some time with Harlan, I had not spent time with him since Wednesday as Thursday was my prep day, a good day to stay close to home. Harlan did very well while I was gone but it was good to see him and he was glad to see me. We stayed until 5:30 as I had DeeAnn to drive me home, I don't do well driving after dark.

I have enjoyed my time with DeeAnn and I sure appreciate her willingness to be my driver and my overnight care giver, I was told I had to have someone stay with me tonight, I don't understand why I feel great.

This has been a good day, until tomorrow good night...Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

A big thanks to all Veterans and to all of you serving, you are special and you make our country special by all you do, THANK YOU!

This morning while I was debating about what time I should go in to see Harlan Sarah called and said she was going to eat at Applebees and wanted to know if Grandpa and I wanted to join her. Applebees was giving a free dinner to anyone in the service or anyone that is a Veteran, because of the free dinner I knew they would be busy and Harlan has a hard time waiting in line so I wasn't sure if it would work for us. A long story short, she called from Applebees and we joined her and DeeAnn for a wonderful dinner, both Sarah and Harlan had free dinners DeeAnn and I had to pay for ours. I understand there was up to an hour and a half wait later in the day.

From Applebees Harlan I and DeeAnn went to Aldis and picked up a few groceries, I had a $5.00 coupon I could use if I spent $30.00 and between the two of us we did. After shopping we went different ways DeeAnn went home and we headed back to the VA. The VA was having a special program honoring the Veterans with special music and speakers. It was a good program but for Harlan it was too long, maybe an hour and a half. Because it was cloudy and rather dark Harlan kept saying, "We better leave so you can get home before dark". He knows I don't like night driving and he wanted to leave but this was two in the afternoon, there was no need to rush out. We were served crackers with cheese & lunch meat and coffee or lemonade. The best part about the trip to the auditorium, they were doing flu shots and I got mine, I have been calling my Dr's. office weekly and they are just not getting any in.

We were going back to Harlan's building when he decided he needed a treat, as if we hadn't eaten enough all ready, he wanted pie. A trip out to Perkins satisfied his sweet tooth, we shared a piece of French Silk, I had coffee and he had hot chocolate. When we left there Harlan had his chocolate chip cookie in hand to enjoy in the evening, they are so good to him.

We had a very good day, time with Sarah and DeeAnn, good food and I got my much needed flu shot.

I will be in touch tomorrow another day and another adventure.............Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I took the shirts back to Fleet Farm I bought yesterday for Harlan, I had to get a bigger size as they were fitted Western style and the medium was just too snug around the waist. He liked the snaps too I hope they are easier for him then buttons.

For our outing today we went to Aldi and walked through I didn't buy anything, I do want to go back to try and use one of my coupons, after our trek through the grocery store we had our treat at Culver's then back to the VA.

He does say he'd like to go home with me but doesn't insist or act unhappy when he talks about it, I know he wishes things were different and so do I.

We watched Jeopardy together then I went home, we had a good day together......Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today I had a perm and did laundry, not too exciting and then spent time with Harlan. He likes to help me when ever he can and I needed to gas up the car, he pumps and and cleans the windows I go pay. After getting gas we went into Fleet Farm and we picked out several new shirts for Harlan and I checked out winter boots. While I was looking at boots Harlan asked, "Why are you looking at boots, summer is coming?" then he added "Oh! maybe not for a while." The weather is beautiful maybe we can just skip winter, don't I wish, I will take all the prewinter weather I can get and make the cold and snow season short.

When we got back to the VA Harlan tried on the shirts and they were too tight, they were fitted western style with snaps instead of buttons and he has gained enough weight to make them just too snug, I'll take them back and get large in stead of medium. He has a hard time with buttons so I hope the snaps will be easier, we'll see.

We skipped the treat when we went out as it was November birthday celebration, they served cake and coffee and we decided that was enough treat for the day.

I like to leave just after the sun has gone down, it makes for easier driving as I have to go SW so now I leave before Harlan goes for supper, when I get home I called him and remind him to go eat.

Today was a good day, so until tomorrow, Good Night....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today has been a busy day and it started out with a BANG, when I looked at my clock and the time was 8:00 and I try to leave here at 8:30 so I can have plenty of time to stop for breakfast at McD then on to the VA to help Harlan get ready for church, it all worked out.
Granddaughter Sarah called to remind me about the Veterans Parade at the VA starting at 1:00 and she was to be part of it, so of course we had to make plans to be there.

We got ready and left for church at 10:15, we had plenty of time. Then we had another surprise, Rick and DeeAnn joined us, they wanted to see Sarah in the parade too.

After church we headed back to the VA to change clothes and be more comfortable. Because the parade was assembled in front of Building 50 (Harlan's building) it was a challenge to get as close to his building as possible, I had to drive around the backside (River side) and then we had to park and walk to get in. We changed clothes then took Harlan out in a wheel chair so he'd have a place to sit, the parade was about a half long and of course we saw Sarah, she was in front because of her height, I did get several pictures, because it was a beautiful day we enjoyed it all.

Rick & DeeAnn and Wes & Sarah wanted to go to Anton's for dinner, they don't open until four on Sunday so we needed food to sustain us until then, a trip to McD took care of that.

Harlan and I went up to his room to rest and relax then about 4 we took off for Anton's. Harlan and I shared a rib dinner, it was very disappointing, the ribs were not hot, I guess I won't order ribs in the evening again.

As you can see we had a very busy day but it was a good day, the weather was perfect for a parade, no rain and some sun, we'd had the rain in the morning, it was great so until tomorrow, Good Night........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

The weather is beautiful, I hope you all are having time to enjoy.

Harlan and I went for pizza for his treat today, they told me he did not eat breakfast or lunch and when I asked him about it he gave me two different answers. First he said he had eaten then he said he was fat enough and didn't need to eat. When we had the pizza he inhaled it so I know he hadn't eaten much today, he was hungry.

Today or rather this evening he is having a hard time trying to figure out how to handle tomorrow and he wasn't sure if tomorrow was really Sunday, I have received many calls from him this evening asking about tomorrow and what to do. Every Sunday is about the same and tomorrow should not be any different, so until tomorrow, Good Night......Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I did not write anything yesterday so will write about yesterday and today.

I enjoyed my trip down to the Cities yesterday, the weather was great and it's good to touch bases with friends and get caught up on the news. Our Care group gets together once monthly and it is usually in the Twin Cities area as that is where most of the people live. We have a "mini" Bible study or rather some one chooses something to share with us then we gather in groups and pray for the needs each one has. I rode with Dave and Marion and they picked Donna Jean up, we met at Arlon and Lois in their Community room, it was so nice with small meeting areas off of the main room and lots of room to visit.

I spent time, about an hour with Harlan when we got back, he was not a "happy camper" and I don't know why, he can't tell me why he is unhappy because he really doesn't know and he was still unhappy this morning but by the time I went in to see him this afternoon he was okay.

Today Aldi grocery store was open, not to shop but to see what the store is like, they had a lot of samples and I signed up for several drawings. A new store always looks so nice because everything is in order and neat and clean. I will go back and shop when they aren't so busy. I received coupons in the mail, $5.00 off if I spend $30.00 and $10.00 off if I spend $40.00, they most likely will not be used by me as I don't think I'd even spend $30.00, although they had some great prices.

Today was the meeting of the memory loss support group at The VA and we have decided to have a Christmas pot luck at our 1st meeting in December the staff will check to see what kind of facilities we can use and what we will bring will be decided at our next meeting, November 20th.

Harlan and I went to Perkins for our treat and I stayed with Harlan until after the sun went down as when I leave there I drive SW and the setting sun is not the best to drive into.

He was sure today was Saturday and he wanted to make sure I would be there on time on Sunday.

We had a good day, and good days are always a blessing...........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I see we have sun and it's gone down, hopefully we will enjoy it tomorrow. Today was cool, the weather channel listed wind chill, Brrr!

My cleaning lady (Sue) was here and it's so nice to come home to clean and everything in order. I went in to spend time with Harlan and at times he does surprise me, today I explained that I was going to Minneapolis tomorrow and would see him in the late afternoon and that I was riding with Marion and he responded, "Sundquist?" No last name had been mentioned before but it brought memories back to me, when Dave and Marion had been in to see Harlan in the hospital he recognized Dave, this was just before he went down for surgery for the feeding tube, the brain and memories are very complex and so hard to understand. We had a good day, our treat consisted of a half piece of pumpkin pie at Perkins (we shared a piece) and Harlan had hot chocolate and I had coffee. Explanation of the half piece of pie - when Harlan saw Dr. Fox yesterday his weight is near 150 pounds and his clothes are getting tight around the middle, not good! I guess a half piece of pie was enough and it was good, I don't think all the pizza we've had has helped!

Today was a great day and I'm sure I'll enjoy tomorrow too.

I'll close for now and update you tomorrow. Love, Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today Harlan had an appointment with Dr. Fox for his depression, he had been seeing Dr. Kemp and I had some issues with Dr. Kemp, I think he is a good Dr. I just think Dr. Fox is more in tune with depression connected with memory loss, his questions to Harlan just made more sense then when Dr. Kemp asked questions, but then what do I know.

He got right in to see Fox and we had a short appointment, Harlan is to go back in three months.

After his appointment we went to check on a new grocery store Aldis but it does not open until Saturday so I'll try again some other day. I know several people that shop there that is in the Twin Cities area, good prices.

Harlan likes pizza so our treat was The Pizza Ranch and after pizza we went back to the VA and I came home because of the early sun set I leave before dark and today with the rain it was good to get home.

Everyone, take care and I send my love......Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today I started leaving the VA early because of the earlier sun set and Harlan did not seem to mind, I hope it will continue that way.

I went in to see him around two and we took the car for a wash, it really needed it then we went to Caribou for our coffee, that was disappointing as there was no place to sit and we drank our coffee in the car.

It was so windy today and because of the wind we took turns getting into the car so as not to have both car doors open at the same time and it worked nothing blew out of the car.

Tomorrow Harlan has a Doctor appointment, check in at 1:20 and he'll see Dr. Fox at 1:40 after that we'll get out for our treat. Tomorrow is also bath day and he doesn't always cooperate and go, hopefully tomorrow he will.

Today was a good day and I have nothing more to write about, so Good Night until tomorrow. Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today being Sunday I went to take Harlan to church, first a stop for coffee at McD then to the VA to bring Harlan "Sunday" clothes then on to church.

The sun was out some and we had showers in between, I managed to be inside some where when it rained.

After church we changed clothes then went to Applebees, their Two for Twenty was our choice. Harlan had their Ribblets but when he got them they were luke warm and we had to waite for our waitress to come around (she was so busy) to take care of his complaint, when he was re-served them they were hot and he really enjoyed them from "Ear to Ear". Because we had waited so long for them our waitress, with the managers okay gave us Harlan's dinner free.

I decided to do some shopping, we went to Sam's then to K-Mart and last of all Fleet Farm for gas then back to The VA to watch The Vikings and Green Bay.

I left Harlan at 4:30 because of the standard time in effect and the early darkness, I'm not a good after dark driver and for the safety of everyone on the road I'm better off at home.

We had a good day and I'll write more tomorrow.....Love You.....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Rick and DeeAnn came up today and two things were accomplished, DeeAnn went with me to get my chair from Slumberland that I had ordered a while ago and I love it and Rick put shelves in my laundry area and now everything has a place and doesn't have to sit on the floor. I think he had a hard time putting them in as there was very limited space next to the washer and dryer, but he managed to do it and I know I'm going to love having an orderly place for everything. Before all the above the four of us joined Wes and Sarah at Granite Edge for lunch.

I went in to spend time with Harlan and Rick and DeeAnn joined us at the Pizza Ranch so they could spend time with him too. While we were enjoying our time together Harlan looked at Rick and says, "Will I see you in church tomorrow?" Rick and Sarah surprised us one Sunday several months ago and I guess Harlan remembered that and would have liked to have that happen again.

I had to leave the VA earlier then I usually do as we were having a pot luck here and we were supposed to eat by 5, I was late, got there about 5:30 but there was plenty of food left and because I'd had a piece of pizza earlier I really wasn't hungry and a helping of lasagna was enough with a little dessert.

Harlan was not upset that I had to leave early as I have talked to him several times and he didn't sound stressed out. Saturday evening he always calls wanting to know what he should do about tomorrow, he is never quite sure what his role is in getting ready for church.

There will have to be some adjustment on when I leave the VA because I don't handle driving after dark very well so I'll need to leave there before 4:30. I think the antidepressant is really helping him and I'm so thankful for that.

I see Harlan's pictures are still up as Service Man of the month, they have been up since August, (a long month) I keep telling him he must be important for his pictures to be up for so long.

Today was busy but a good day. Tomorrow will be a more relaxing day with Harlan and we'll enjoy more quiet time together. Love to all..........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

The weather has not been nice, we saw a bit of sun but now we are getting a mix of rain and snow.

I went in before lunch to see Harlan, we went down stairs to the restaurant at the VA and had a cup of coffee, at first he didn't want to go but then decided it would be a nice thing to do. We had an outing at church and I had signed up to go which was the reason for the early visit with Harlan, we had to meet at church at noon for a trip down to Delano and The Apple Jack Orchard. We had lunch at Apple Jacks and just looked around, I bought apples, caramel dip and Apple butter. When we have gone down before (this is the 3rd time) the weather was nicer and we were taken on a hay ride through the orchards and saw many, many different kinds of apples, some still on the trees. There are a lot that go to waste because there are just too many grown and I don't think they let people go in and pick apples on their own as they may be destructive to the trees. We had a devotion before leaving there and a good ride back. It was a fun day.

When I started my car to leave church the low tire light came on so instead of going to see Harlan I went to McKay's to see if someone could check it out, the service department was closing but they were kind enough to put air in all the tires and the light went out, sure hope that takes care of my problem.

I had a good day and Harlan seemed okay with the mixed up schedule.

Untill tomorrow, Good Night.........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I missed writing yesterday so today you get a double dose!!!

When I took my paper in I had a surprise, Rale had added a small pumpkin bread and it was good I ate most of it at lunch time, the rest I'll have tomorrow for breakfast.

Today was our redecorating day in the community room here, we'll do it again next week as we did some decorating for Halloween and next month is Thanksgiving and ghosts and goblins have to go.

This morning I got a phone call from Mrs. Campbell Pastor's Mother, she is a joy to talk to as she has such a sweet spirit, even when things are not going well she is bright and cheery. We usually sit behind her in church and she is always "dressed in a smile", a very special lady.

Yesterday I took Harlan to Applebees for his treat and we each had a dinner, he had ribblets, too much for him to eat so I had a great lunch today.

Today it rained most of the day, at this point we don't need any more as it is making it very hard for the farmers to finish up their harvesting. Because of the rain we went to the Mall area and stopped at Caribou's for coffee and a bar, they have some good bars to go with coffee. We picked out two and shared giving us two different ones to go with our coffee.

After Caribou we made a stop at the bank then back to the VA and Harlan took his meds and the neb machine, he needed the neb as his breathing was laboured, the high humidity is very hard on his breathing.

We had about an hour to just relax and watch TV then it was time for Harlan's supper and me to leave.

I enjoyed my time with Harlan, it was a good day...........Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Today was an interesting day, Harlan called me several times and he talked about making apple juice, I did not understand what he was talking about and I would check it out when I got in. When I got there Vicki met me as I got off of the elevator and said they had made apple pies and Harlan and I should stop for some before we left, it would be done around 3 O'clock, that's when I found out what that was all about. They had talked Harlan into helping with this pie making. He had put on a jacket because he was going to meet me and go for a treat, he has never done that before, so when he was asked to help he was dressed to go out side, much too warm for inside work. I guess after working for a while he told them he was done working and he quit because he was too warm. When I talked to him about it he said he sat between two guys to work and they never did a thing he did all the work and he wasn't going to do that again. The pie was great, it was warm and served with ice cream.

After the pie we went to Perkins, Harlan had grilled cheese, fries and hot chocolate and I had soup and salad, I brought the salad home and had it for supper. Two cookies were sent home with us, I think mine will be for tomorrow's breakfast, but I think Harlan ate his tonight.

He called me tonight to tell me to watch "Are You Smarter Then a Fifth Grader?" and told me what channel it's on, he has never done that before, he does amaze me at times on what he can do.

Today was bath day, he said they had gotten him up before 6 for his bath and a while after that he said it was 4 when they got him up, I didn't check with anyone on the time but I don't think it was even before seven.

His depression seems better and his sense of humor is returning, I feel each day is better then the day before and then again some days there is no change it even could be worse, but I enjoy each day we have.

We'll talk again tomorrow...Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I spent the after noon with Harlan. He was upset because they had given him new medication replacing the one he had trouble keeping down. When he was given the new medication he was also given a treat (life saver) and he thought the candy was part of the medication, he complained to me that it was so hard if he hadn't had good teeth the medication would have broken his teeth, he chewed it up and swallowed it in stead of sucking on it. Priscilla came and tried to calm his unhappiness and it seemed to help. By the time I left he seemed okay with the proceedings of the day.

He likes the Pizza Ranch so much that that was our treat for the day. After Pizza Ranch we shopped a little while at K-Mart, it's next door, then back to the VA and he was a little depressed as he stressed his unhappiness at being at the VA. He did his meds and neb machine and we had a little time to lay down and rest, that has a calming effect on him.

His pictures are still up, he keeps checking to see if someone else has pictures up, I think he really would like to see his down.

He went to supper and I went home......Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Harlan and I went to church, it had been 2 weeks since we'd been there and good to be back.

After church we went back to the VA and changed clothes then out to eat. We went to the China Star, very good food and on weekends they have a lot of shrimp, my favorite is the cold shrimp, you have to peel it then enjoy.

We went back to the VA and watched the Vikings lose, so they aren't perfect!!

Harlan was having some breathing difficulties, to help with his breathing they gave him his neb a little early and that really helped, I wish he could understand how important the neb machine is. They did not give him the red pill that will not stay down, tomorrow I hope they have an answer for that problem or can give him something different that will do the same thing.

To day was a good day even Harlan mentioned that today was good. So until tomorrow Good Night....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

We had a good day, Harlan and I. This being Saturday Harlan played bingo and after bingo we went to Perkins. We were both hungry, he had a sandwich and fries and I had a dinner and I skipped eating tonight, I ate just enough to take my evening pills. He is having problems taking one of the pills he takes in the afternoon, he takes two and one just won't go down and stay down, there has to be something else that's easier for him to take, they will check on that. The difficulty he is having with this pill has been going on for a while but I thought it was just something with him, it does seem strange when he takes them both at the same time and one stays and the other doesn't. The one that he keeps down is his antidepressant and I'm glad for that. He has been in a much better mood so I feel the antidepressant is helping and I'm thankful for that. He just doesn't seem as sad as he was for a while.

Tomorrow is church and he is looking forward to that, we missed the last two Sundays because I had a cold one Sunday and the other do to other plans.

Until tomorrow, Good Night.......Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com
This morning I had a phone call from Bernie and Fran Coffin, they just wanted to know how things are in Minnesota, we had a nice chat. When we spent time in AZ Harlan would call friends and just say, "Party Time" and we'd gather friends together for lunch out then back to our place for pie and coffee or maybe tea. Today's phone call reminded me of the fun times we had while out there.
I went in to spend time with Harlan, today was suppose to be popcorn day on his floor. My plan was to enjoy popcorn then do some shopping followed with a treat, no popcorn today. We headed out to Cash Wise as I needed a few groceries then Harlan wanted pizza and we were across the street from the Pizza Ranch and again had good pizza. If and when Pine Cone road get finished we'll take more treat breaks at Perkins, haven't had much pie lately, and Harlan loves their hot chocolate.
We had a good day and I look forward to tomorrow....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

I decided that I would like to have Chow mein for lunch, what a coincidence that is the lunch special at Granite Edge Cafe across the street for today or I could have had Spaghetti with meat balls, the chow mein was great. I hadn't been there for so long I got greeted as if I was royalty or a long lost relative.

After all that I went in to spend time with Harlan, I needed the car gassed up and also needed to exchange several items. We filled the car and made stops at Kmart and Koles then to McD, he had coffee and I had Apple Dippers and back to the VA. He didn't want anything to eat, he was full from lunch, he went on a "picnic" in the building basement some where, I don't know where but he said he had lots to eat and was not hungry.

Harlan is having problems swallowing one pill he has to take, it seems to stick in his throat so now they are going to try crushing it and putting it in either pudding or apple sauce or maybe even ice cream. He did his meds and neb and we took a mini nap then it was time for him to go to supper and me to leave.

Today was a good day, we had a good time together.....Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Another rainy day at least there is no snow.

Sue cleaned today and it is so nice to come home to a clean house, I wish it would stay that way it even smells clean.

I was having a problem with my car wipers, I stopped at McKay's and they replaced them. They were noisy and didn't wipe well, the mechanic that replaced them and told me there could have been tree sap on them, they were new so no problem with getting them replaced and now they work well.

Harlan called me several times today, he wasn't sure what to do because of the rain. When he calls me during the day I know he isn't sleeping and should sleep well at night. Because of the rain I picked up candy bars and we had coffee at the VA, then he noticed it wasn't raining so out for a treat we went. We had our treat at the Pizza Ranch, as always it was good, a small pizza and coffee.

He didn't think he wanted supper but when I left he was checking his supper out I hope he drank his milk or juice, he does need the liquids as he drinks so little water.

While we were having our Pizza Sue (Daughter) called, she bowls on Wed and says she does better when she calls us lol!!!. Harlan had a conversation with her and seemed to hear her well, and he did chat a bit usually it's, "Hello, Here's Mom," not today though.

Today was a good day, you have a Good Night and I'll talk tomorrw.........Fran