MERRY CHRISTMAS


Hello From Rockville

I don't know what happened but I have not been able to get into my blog I hope I can publish it.

Sue came home for Christmas we enjoyed a week with her. She took me to St. Paul to spend time with Doris and Bob we went out to a wonderful Chinese restaurant and had a great dinner.  It was so good to spend time with them.

I had Christmas with my family Christmas Eve day.  Rick & DeeAnn and Becky, Walt, Luke and Kate joined Denese, Sue and  me for a 1:00 O'clock dinner on the 24th.  We had so much to eat - ham, twice baked potatoes, corn casserole, green bean casserole, rolls, pumpkin pie, apple crisp, ice cream, cookies, milk, hot apple cider, coffee and I'm sure I forgot something, we played that "famous" game Take A Gift Away.     

Christmas Day (Sunday) we went to church and was treated to a light breakfast, rolls, juice, milk and coffee.  We had the Christmas story acted out with a real baby - he slept through the narration and play this was followed by a candle light service.  

Sue and I were invited to Rick and DeeAnn's for a 4:00 O'clock dinner on Christmas Day which I missed - I slept through it - explanation.  I have been having a runny nose (allergies) and commented to Sue about it and she suggested an allergy pill she carries with her would help, I took it and we headed down to Ricks.  We did some snacking and chatting and I sat down to visit and at that point I was so tired I went to the basement and snuggled into a recliner and ZONKED out, missing out a wonderful dinner - no more allergy pills for me I'll put up with the sniffles!!!  

Yesterday I meet Earlene and Dorene for lunch in St. Cloud also enjoyed the company of Dixie, Heidi and Joni, we chatted and chatted and ate and passed around lots of hugs.  I went home with a gift of Christmas cookies from Earlene and a box of candy and a calendar from Hawaii, a gift from Dixie, it is always fun to spend time with family.  I hope we do this again sometime.

This was not like my Christmas's have been for the last several years as they were spent with Harlan at the VA and I miss him, it has been 6 months (December 14th) but this was a good Christmas as I had my family with me, I am truly blessed.....Fran

No Snow but much rain

Hello From Rockville

The last I wrote was when Sue went back to Georgia, a fast but a fun time with her.  That evening I went with Marylou to a woman's program at her daughter's church, a good program with cookies, punch and coffee.  

Last Friday was our Christmas party at church a fun dress-up time.  Marylou went with we had great food and a lot of fun games got home about 1o:00.

On Monday I met Marvin and Lynnett for breakfast before they headed back home.  We had a great visit and they shared some pictures with me some to share with family.  Even if I had just spent time with them it was fun seeing them again.
Tuesday was our second annual "Trek Through The Neighborhood," we went to as many apartments as we were invited to here in our building to see the Christmas decorating done by our neighbors and ended the time with cookies and coffee in the community room.
Today my place was cleaned, I did my laundry and three of us "girls" went shopping to Cold Spring needed stuff for our pot-luck.
Tomorrow will be our annual Christmas Pot-luck, ham is furnished and we'll "pot-luck" the rest.
It's hard to believe but Sue will be back for Christmas next Wednesday, oh the year is just flying by.
If I don't write again before Christmas have a Very Merry Christmas........Fran

Sue's visit

Hello From Rockville

It is cold had temps right around zero but it is going to warm up to around 32, oh well we know spring is several months away and it will be warm again.

My toe is still sore but getting better which is good.

Sunday was Denese's birthday, we had a family gathering and a wonderful meal planned by DeeAnn with everyone contributing, topped of with birthday cake and Culver's ice cream cakes.  Sue flew in from Georgia to help celebrate it is so good to be together.  She left today but will return for Christmas.  Again we did a relay thing to get her to the airport her and I drove down to the Albertville outlet mall, met DeeAnn and Becky for lunch and Becky took her the rest of the way to the airport and I headed home.
To regress a bit Sue and I spent all day yesterday shopping, stopped for lunch at Five Guys, they have great jumbo hot dogs, then all over for shopping, hitting many different shops and met Denese for dinner at Perkins, I think we "Shopped Until we Dropped" literally, nice to relax after being gone for about 8 hours.
Tomorrow it's a hair trim for me and tomorrow evening we'll have Carolers sing in the hallway and treats in our community room.
Denese had worked very hard to decorate in here and out side, it beautiful.
If I don't write again I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and please remember it's NOT Happy Holidays it's MERRY CHRISTMAS.........Fran

When the cell phone meets the toe

Hello From Rockville

Thanksgiving has come and gone and we are now in the Christmas mode, life goes by so quickly.

I have so much to be thankful for - my family, my home, my country, my health - SO MANY BLESSINGS!!!

Wednesday Denese and I went down to Becky's we stayed over night and had a great Thanksgiving dinner - turkey, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, rainbow jello, green bean casserole, rolls, pumpkin pie, apple crisp and I'm sure I missed something.  Rick & DeeAnn, Denese and Becky, Walt, Katie, Kristin and Luke made up a table full, it's great to be together as a family to meet around the table to chat and chew.

Early Thursday morning I used my cell phone as a flash light and dropped it on my toe, the results a very sore toe but I didn't have to help just enjoyed the food, you have to look for the positive in even "bad things" and I was pampered.

We spent another night at Beck'y left there in the morning headed for St. Louis Park, Denese dropped me off to spend several hours with Mark and Betty, I had lunch with them and a great afternoon.  Denese picked me up after her visit with Paul and Megan and we headed back to Rockville and a restful evening.

Saturday Denese started my Christmas decorating and finished up yesterday, it is so beautiful.

Rick and DeeAnn came up on Saturday and brought lunch - subs - they were good and we finished the day off with pizza.  Rick replaced my car battery, I am thankful for that as I don't want to be anywhere this winter with a car that won't start.

Tomorrow I go help with reading at our school and Wednesday we decorate here and I am making lunch for the helpers.  My cleaning lady comes in the morning.  Thursday we celebrate December birthdays and Bill is our host. 

Sunday is Denese's birthday and we'll have a family gathering to help her celebrate.

I'll write again when I have something "important" to say......Fran

  

It's official Winter is here

Hello From Rockville

We had our first snow of the season and the snow on my patio table  measured just short of 5", I shoveled my patio and it was light and fluffy not a back breaker job.  The temps are to be in the 40s later this week so I hope it all goes don't need this on the ground all winter.

Because of the snow I stayed in all day just to the P.O. for the mail then to the garbage, so nothing exciting to talk about.......Fran

A cool windy day

Hello From Rockville

Yesterday was my day at school to help with reading, always a good day followed with some needed shopping.  Just as I was ready to leave church the fire alarm went off I grabbed my coat and left.  Then I was off to the dollar store to try and find things to decorate for our dinner on Thursday, an early Thanksgiving dinner, there was not a thing just Christmas stuff (too early for such stuff) so I went to Party City and picked up napkins, dessert plates and place mats in fall colors, the tables should look nice.  After a trip to the bank I went to my favorite place for lunch, Park Diner and had a hamburger.  My hamburger greeted me with a happy face made from olives and pickles thanks to the cook.  I had a happy face on my morning coffee from McD too, smiles all around I love it.

Today Sue (cleaning) shaped my place up and I had my hair cut this morning then I'm off to the VA to meet with the support group.

Tomorrow will be busy, a luncheon at noon then home to roast the turkey for our dinner tomorrow evening.  Will talk later......Fran

Several weeks of update

Hello From Rockville
It has been so long since blogging I hardly know how to do it.

Several weeks ago Denese and Becky did a relay driving thing and took me down to spend a week in Owatonna with Lucille.  This trip was very short lived as Lucille was sick, she thought she had a cold but ended up with pneumonia then another relay run to bring me home, this time DeeAnn picked me up and Denese went to St. Michael and picked me up, there was concern for my health and the pneumonia was contagious so it was a good thing I came home.  I hope to try spending time with her again when she has her health back.

Last Monday I again was able to spend a day with Joyce and Jim thanks to Cheryl and Shirley we had a fun day and enjoyed our time together.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and our pot-luck social is Thursday, two of us will make the turkeys and everyone one else will fill in with the rest of the dinner, this is fun and we all eat well.

Tomorrow it will be 5 months since Harlan has been gone and I do miss him and my trips to the VA, I miss getting him ready for church and out for a Sunday dinner.   Life does go on and life is good but I will always miss him......Fran

Crisp fall weather

Hello From Rockville

Yesterday was a day filled with emotions.  I felt it was my last "Good-bye" to Harlan.  I went to the memorial service at the VA, it was good, very nice.  Special music "Love Remains" .. beautiful and several songs were sung, "O God Our Help in Ages Past" and the last one "Amazing Grace" was sung at both the committal and Memorial service for Harlan and yesterday at the VA.  Each Veteran's name was read and a bell rang in memory.

The following is a poem that was read -

I STOOD BY YOUR BED  Author Unkown

I stood by your bed last night, I came to have a peep,
I could see that you were crying, you found it hard to sleep.


I whined to you softly as you brushed away a tear,
"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."


I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour your tea, you were thinking of the many times your hands reached down to me.


I was with you at the shops today, your arms were getting sore.  I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.


I was with you at my grave today, you tend it with such care. I want to reassure you that I'm not lying there.


I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key. I gently put my hand on you, I smiled and said "It's me."


You looked so very tired, and sank into a chair,  I tried so hard to let you know, that I was standing there.


It's possible for me to be so near you every day, to say to you with certainty, "I never went away."


You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew ... in the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you.


The day is over ... I smile and watch you yawning and say "Goodnight, God bless, I'll see you in the morning."


And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide, I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand there side by side.


I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see.  Be patient, live your journey out ... then come home to be with me.


Yesterday was hard but I'm so glad I went.  After the service I stopped at the Park Dinner and had an Orange float, when Harlan had a Root Beer float I had an Orange float.
Today is our Social pot luck and I'm using some of the many apples I have for Apple Crisp.  Following the Social will be a meeting to put our fire drill safety into use so everyone will know what to do if a fire should happen. 
Will write again soon.........Fran

It was a cool day

Hello From Rockville

I woke up to a very cool day and it was that way all day.  I needed to gas up the van but chose not to as I didn't wear a coat will have to do that tomorrow.

Tomorrow will be the Memorial at the VA and that may be hard for me but I am looking forward to going as that will be my final "Good Bye."

I did my "job" listening to the children read this morning, they are such a joy, then I picked up my wedding ring.  It broke a short time after Harlan passed away and it's so good to have it back on my finger, I am just not ready to remove it and I don't think I'll ever be able to.  

I was going to do a little grocery shopping but forgot my coupons at home so it will give me something to do tomorrow afternoon.

I had a nice surprise today, while watching TV my cell phone rang with DeeAnn at the other end, "Where are you? Are you home?"  Me, "Yes."  "We are in your driveway, can we come in?"  If someone wants to visit me I never turn them away, Linda was with her they came in we had a little chat and lots of laughs, she wanted to show Linda where I live, good seeing both of them. 

I see my blog writing has really slowed down just not a lot to write about, I'll let you know how tomorrow goes............Fran

Weather is Beautiful for October

Hello From Rockville

A week since writing but nothing exciting to write about.  

Denese went to spent time with Jenny and Megan and she dropped me off at DeeAnn's for the afternoon.  We had fun cooking, I helped her make a meat loaf, apple crisp and two kinds of soup we also did some shopping.  Denese and I had supper with Rick and DeeAnn, meat loaf, sweet potatoes, green beans and apple crisp with whipped cream, all very good and with satisfied tummies we headed home.  I have a lot going on this coming week but not a lot of exciting things, I do keep busy.  

I'm still doing well but I miss Harlan......Fran     

Beautiful Fall

Hello From Rockville 

It has several days since writing.  Sue has returned to Georgia and back to work.  Friday we made a stop at the cemetery, this was my first time back, we had to make sure Harlan's dates were correct on his part of the marker.  While there we also found Baby James grave, he was our first Grandbaby.  The cemetery has a lot of maple trees and they were dressed in their best fall wardrobe just beautiful!!!  We all had a great day.  

Before leaving Minnesota we had dinner with the gang - Me, Denese, Rick, Sue, Becky and Luke, we never tire of visiting.  Sue hopes to come home for Christmas and the way time moves that will be here before we know it, less then three months.

I have a new e mail address as we have a new server for phone, internet and cable, there are several things to "iron out", in fact I was without internet service for several days, as of now I am back on and everything seems to be going okay. 

I will write again soon just keep checking..........Fran 

Minnesota Vacation Part 2

Hello From Rockville 
The past six days have been fast moving and oh so much fun!

As I told you earlier I spent my birthday with my sisters, and I don't know how long it has been since that has happened, and back home on Monday.

Sue and I spent Tuesday here unpacking suit cases and doing laundry so we'd be ready to take off again on Wednesday morning this time heading north and west with first our first stop at Lowry near Alexandria to spend time with Joyce and Jim. We had not seen their Minnesota home, they are on a lake and are in the process of remodeling, a project that is keeping both of them very busy and I dare say out of mischief.  It was so good to be able to visit with them, after chatting we headed into town for lunch, a Chinese buffet was chosen and Sue and I both left filled to the "brim."  After "Good Byes" and a stop to fill the car we headed to North Dakota then noticed the temperature on the car thermometer registered 91 but as we got nearer to our destination it did cool down to mid 80's and by evening it was very comfortable.  We spent the night with my cousin Dan and Bonnie and really enjoyed their hospitality, had good food a nice place to sleep and lots of fun looking at old pictures and talking about our childhood etc. with lots of memories and laughs to last a long time.  Wednesday morning after a great breakfast they took us into town as Sue wanted to pick up something from Edinberg North Dakota to take back home we then headed east toward Minnesota.  Oh yes, Dan's dad and my dad were brothers.

Our third stop was to Oslo Minnesota in the Red River Valley (this area of Minnesota floods every spring) to visit relatives on Mom's side of the family.  Again we had a wonderful dinner and again we ate more then we needed but it's hard to know when to stop when it tastes so good.  We talked about family and looked at many pictures some I knew and others I did not but again we had a very fun afternoon.  Before leaving we were treated to a fresh raspberry dessert and coffee and we were back on the road by mid afternoon and got home a bit after 7:00.  

I am so thankful to Sue and the time she took to drive me around Minnesota it's been a fun "Minnesota Vacation."........Fran

Vacation part one

Hello From Rockville

Sue came in on Friday, Jenny picked her up at the airport and did some fun things to her hair and Denese brought me to Jenny's house.  From Jenny's I spent the afternoon with Doris and Bob, I spent several hours with them then I was picked up and Sue and I headed down to Owatonna to be with Lucille and Harold, enjoyed dinner with them then Cheryl joined us for cake and I received several packages (it was my birthday)  each one contained goodies for our trip, candy and nuts we'll snack on the way.  Our last stop today was time with Becky, Walt, Luke, Kristen and Kate.  We had dinner with them then headed home to Rockville.  We'll do a few things here then head out west and I'll fill you in on more activities when i get back.....Fran.

Another busy day

Hello From Rockville 

Denese woke me up before leaving for work she leaves at 6:30 on Friday, I had an 8:15 Dr. appointment in St. Cloud and I needed to leave here by 7:30.  I did stop for breakfast @ McD then on for the appointment and that went well I don't need to go back unless I have a problem.

The appointment behind me I did a little grocery shopping at the Aldi store and Cash Wise, then home to put stuff away and on to church for our YAH'S outing.  We went for lunch at Bonanzas then a tour of a granite mining area called Quarry Park.  This was so much fun, we were able to ride through, we had a guide on board to tell us about it, just too far for Seniors to walk, they no longer take granite from there, some very deep holes that are filled with water over 100 feet deep, you can fish for rainbow trout, there is rock climbing, and swimming.  There are many walking trails for summer and winter recreation and ski and snowmobile trails for the winter time also. 

I hadn't been home very long when Denese called to see if I wanted to go out to eat she took me out for my birthday we went to an all you can eat fish place, it was okay but I don't think we'll go back again.

It is now time to get ready for bed as a busy day is coming up tomorrow........Fran

Hello Hello Hello

Hello From Rockville

A very nice day, it's cool and cloudy but no rain.

I must talk about yesterday.  Building 50-1 had a pizza party, all the pizza you could eat and pop for drinks.  This is the floor that was home to Harlan for nearly three years and the best was I was invited, it was so much fun to see the staff and the residents that were there when Harlan was there.  There has been some changes as residents come and go for many reasons.  I got hugs and more hugs from both staff and residents, I was sung to as my birthday was close enough for birthday greeting.  SOOOOO much fun.

Yesterday was great for other reasons too, my home was cleaned and Sarah spent the afternoon with me, I love spending time with family and mine is so great, God is so good to me.

Today was a shopping day I went to Cold Spring for lunch saw Ed and he bought me lunch for my birthday.

Tomorrow will be another fun day, YAH's has a fun activity planned and on Saturday Sue comes and I'll begin a Minnesota Vacation..........Fran    

Hello Fall here we come

Hello From Rockville

Yesterday is behind me and I thought it would be hard but it was a great day.  Yesterday, September 18th Harlan and I would have celebrated our 60th Wedding Anniversary, 60 years of difficulty and wonder, blessings and hurts.  We went through a lot together, nothing is easy but in looking back we were so blessed.  Our greatest blessing is our family, Denese, Rick, Sue and Becky, they have been beside us through the last years helping with many difficult decisions  that had to be made.  I am also blessed with a Heavenly Father that is here and listens to me when I laugh and when I cry.

One of the hardest thing Harlan and I went through was the loss of Son Rob, his death brought us closer together and I believe closer to God.  And now as I think back MY most difficult time was the last three plus years, watching Harlan go down hill and I couldn't stop it (no one can).  I enjoyed my time with him, he appreciated everything I did for him and he always looked forward to my visits, there were very few days I didn't spend with him, but sometimes twice in one day.

Sundays were special as when he was able to go I took him to church and out for a noon meal, the afternoon was spent taking a nap along side him and maybe watching a game, Twins or Vikings, he seemed to be able to follow them and understood most of the plays. 

Yesterday Rick surprised me by showing up in church and I was really very surprised.  Then Rick and DeeAnn came to the house and we had a great time visiting.  Becky came later and took Denese and me out for dinner we enjoyed wonderful food at Antons.  Sue called to see how I was, my family surrounded me with love and support, I am so blessed. 

I know many of my blog readers pray for me and I really appreciate you, thanks...........Fran

Frost On The Pumpkin

Hello From Rockville 

Last night we had a freeze with temps in the high 20's, I did some covering of plants so I saved some flowers, tonight will be another cool night but not as cold as last night, I didn't do any covering so hope I still have unfrozen plant tomorrow.

I have made several phone calls to my bank and also made some trips in to get Harlan's name removed from accounts like checking etc. why does things have to be so complicated?

Tuesday I went in to St. Cloud early to do some shopping before I helped with reading at school, then met Sarah for lunch.  She had large blankets to wash and my washer does such a good job, so after lunch we headed to Rockville to do laundry and while the blankets were washing and drying we had a good time chatting also went to Cold Spring and picked up a few grocery bargains.  I hadn't spent much time with her so that was a really fun day.

Wednesday I got a perm and will be set for the trip Sue and I have planned, I so look forward to her coming.

Today was our board meeting followed by our Social-Pot-Luck.  I brought a 7 (actually it's 14 layers) jello salad and everyone really enjoyed and I may make it for our Christmas Social, today's was in fall colors, lime, orange, lemon and some red flavors, Christmas will have to be red and green, not hard to make but very time consuming. 

Tomorrow should be quiet, I have no plans to go anywhere...........Fran

Wow! Another Beautiful Day

Hello From Rockville 
I went to The Twin Cities on Thursday and had a great time saw many Crosslake friends, it was our monthly Crosslake Care Group Support.
Coming back we watched a helicopter "string highline wire" for the new power line along the free way, it appears very dangerous as men are working at the top of poles about 150 feet in the air.  There was a write up in the paper about it and they said the men working so high up are very safe and the helicopter pilots are very well trained for the work they do, at times they hover between the lines with not a lot of space, not my kind of work.  They also said stringing the lines using helicopters is more cost effective then using trucks to do it.  
I bought a new printer/copier/fax machine I know I'll use the printer/copier but not sure about the fax it was on sale for a good price so I couldn't pass it up.
Will write again when I have something "important" to say..............Fran 

Beautiful, beautiful weather

Hello From Rockville

Laundry done and put away, house clean or at least straightened up, floors washed and furniture dusted and carpet vacuumed, it feels soooo good.

I went into the VA and joined the support group I have been involved for over two years, they meet twice monthly and I have missed many of them since Harlan is gone, several times I had other commitments on the Wednesday we met.

Following the meeting I did a little shopping then home to start supper only to have Denese call me, I met her at Home Depot to return a fan and we had a great pizza at Pizza Ranch I had not been there since maybe May.  I didn't realize how good their pizza was until my first bite, have to get there more often.  We ordered a large and took part of it home. 

Tomorrow a trip to the Cities for our care group, that will be a good day........Fran

FUN - FUN

Hello from Rockville

Going back to Wednesday I met Shirley in Kimball for lunch we had good food (too much) and just a fun time of chatting.  Next time we'll meet closer to her home.

Thursday (a last minuet decision) I met Porky (a resident at the VA) and Bev for lunch at the Park Dinner, Harlan and I had many fun times there and Harlan loved their sliders with batter bites (potatoes).  We each had an order of the sliders and Porky and Bev each had a malt, a malt is just too much for me so they shared theirs with me.  I do enjoy visiting with Bev she is so funny, she had done some redecorating to her home and shared many pictures with me.  After eating and talking I had a little shopping to do then home.  Thursday evening was our Social Birthday party and I being the hostess had do the dessert, set up and clean up, we had a great time. I made a lemon dessert, I had gotten the recipe  from Myrna it turned out good!  I also served watermelon and peanuts and coffee of course, water was available.  

The weather appears to be cooling down and my tomatoes are just about done so that tells me Autumn is fast approaching, I'm looking forward to cooler weather but not winter, until I write again enjoy the cool down...........Fran

First day of school

Hello From Rockville

I started my reading "job" and had several new students, my challenge is to remember names, it's important to me to be able to call each one by name and because I only see them once a week I have to work at it.

After school I went and picked up car tabs and had lunch at the Park Dinner, I found it hard going there today (Harlan and I had many treats there) but I had a great roast beef dinner with enough left over to take home.  From there I went to McKay's for a grease/oil change on the car, they were so busy I grocery shopped first went to Aldi's and Cash Wise then back and got right in, I had good and bad news, good news - my oil change was free but needed an air filter and I need to replace my battery and will do that before winter, it is the original and has taken me through many Minnesota winters.  After all of the above I headed home, left this AM at 9:45 and walked in the door at 4:15 plopped into my chair and took a nap, hope I sleep well tonight.

Tomorrow will be another fun filled day and will write about it then........Fran  

Pontoon ride

Hello From Rockville

What a full and fun day.  The day started with Sunday School then church and home for lunch,  as I walked in the door I could smell good food, Denese had started cooking.  We had a scrambled egg dish with cinnamon toast delicious!!!  At 3:00 several of us from here were invited for a pontoon ride on Pleasant Lake and that was followed with treats at the 400 Club.  After the afternoon of fun and goodies Mary Lou and I went to the evening church service, on the way home we stopped at her son's home and had coffee and cup cakes now I'm home and ready for bed.  I hope your day was as fun as mine...........Fran

Luke and Becky

Hello From Rockville

Sorry, long time no write!! 

Thursday I spent the day at church for orientation, I am going to help at The Granite City Baptist Academy with reading as I did last year, a very easy "job", I just listen to children while they read. 

Friday Becky and Luke came up to spend time with Denese and I, we had a great time.  Luke has learned to ride a bike and Mom brought his bike up here so he could show us how well he did.  He did fantastic.  We had dinner and visited some more before they left for home.  It was such a fun day.

Next week appears to be busy.

Monday Bible study.  Tuesday school starts and my reading job.  Wednesday I have a hair cut and lunch with Shirley in Kimball and somewhere in there I need a lab appointment and a grease/oil change for the car.  I like busy it keeps me going.

Take........Fran  

The Twin Cities

Hello From Rockville 

Denese and I started the day by being on the road by 8:30, our first stop Buffalo where I picked up my usual McD breakfast - Breakfast Burrito and OJ - then she dropped me off to spend time with Mark and Betty and she went on to see Megan.  Betty had lunch prepared, chicken salad, bread sticks, cucumber salad and olives, with water, lemon aid or coffee for drinks topped of with gingersnap cookies.  We had a good time chatting, chatting and chatting some more and of course eating.  After spending time with Megan Denese picked me up and we headed to the St. Paul area and a stop to see Jenny and the girls, Tori and Izzi, Tori was not feeling very good hope she feels better as they have plans to spend the week-end at the lake.  After Good Byes we headed home. 

After not being home for very long we went into St. Cloud to Aldi's and Perkins and now it's bed time for a good night's sleep so I can be up and going tomorrow as Sarah is coming over  and we have our pot-luck tomorrow evening, I signed up to bring a dessert - Cheese cake.  

So "Good Night" until tomorrow when I plan to write again............Fran 

Garage Sale

Hello from Rockville

Saturday was our garage sale, there were five of us that participated and for only one day it went well, more then one day is just too tiring.  We did have some rain but not while our sale was going on.

It has been quiet and things are going well for me............Fran

Cokato (Stockholm) Minnesota

The day was busy.  My home is clean thanks to my cleaning gal, my hair is cut thanks my hair dresser.

I went to my cousin Rose's funeral this morning, left here at 9:30 and was home again just after two.  This was a new experience for me I have not been back in the Cokato area for quite some time.  The weather was great not real hot and very sunny, I enjoyed seeing many relatives, relatives that one only see when you go to a funeral or wedding.

I had lunch in Cokato with Lucille and Harold, we visited and I came home, they did other things before heading home. 

Things are going well for me....Fran

We will be cooler

It has been several days since I have written.  Thursday I met DonnaJean and John at Calvary Church for a ride to Smyth's for our care group, we had a good turn-out and Smyths have a beautiful home on the lake.  Thursday evening we had our birthday get-together here and again we had a great time and again we ate.

Saturday Denese painted my guest room and now my whole place has a fresh coat of paint and it looks so nice and clean.

We are to have a cool down with highs in the high 70's, hope it stays cool and dry as we are planning a garage sale on Saturday, hope to make lots of $$$$$$, LOL!! I do hope to get rid of what I have.

I miss Harlan but am doing well....Fran

Crosslake

Hello From Rockville

I had a great time in Crosslake, visiting and eating!!! I went up on Tuesday got an early start, left here a bit after 6AM was in Crosslake by 8AM.  I ran into rain from Little Falls to CL off and on but not a lot, I needed a car wash and that didn't happen.  I joined Ron & Bev and Charlie & Mary for breakfast at the Wharf and it was a good breakfast yum, yum.  We visited there then back to their place and more chatting.  I left there and dropped my stuff of at Homestead and touched bases with Myrna before joining Dorene for pie and coffee at 1:00 at Pine Peaks, I had not seen her for many years we had lots to catch up on.  I finished the day with Myrna, she had dinner for the "Happy Halves" and we talked and talked until 9 when everyone left and Myrna took off to walk Missy and I went down the hall to see Beulah and Warren, then a "Good Night" to Myrna and I "hit the hay" for the night. 

Oh, did I sleep, a really good night.  Morning came and I was up and dressed and breakfast with Myrna then down the hall to see Ruth and off to Church for more visits and hugs and of course for coffee and a snack.  This group known as Y(oung) A(t) H(eart) 's was a group Harlan and I enjoyed time with while we lived in CL.  We met every Wednesday for Bible study and fellowship and a monthly fun activity.  Today this meeting was followed with lunch at the senior center, back to Myrna's for dessert then I hit the road for home. 

The last two days were tiring but I had a wonderful time and enjoyed every minuet of it.  I'll try and repeat this next year....Fran 

Here comes August

Hello From Rockville 

Can you believe this It's August, where has the summer gone!!! We have had a very warm July the 5th warmest since record keeping going back to the 1800's.

A busy and fun filled week ahead, tomorrow I'll pack to spend two days in Crosslake, Tuesday and Wednesday.  My plans are to be in Crosslake by 8 AM on Tuesday to meet friends for breakfast, early afternoon coffee time with cousin Dorene then dinner with Myrna and friends.  Wednesday to church and YAHs, have lunch and head back home.  

Thursday noon is the monthly meeting of our Crosslake Care group and Thursday evening we have our monthly Birthday Party here. 

I have developed allergies like an ongoing COLD - sneezy, runny nose, watery eyes and the OTC helps a little but just doesn't last 24 hours like it says it should.  Hope this goes away soon.....Fran

A Very Nice Day

Hello From Rockville 

Yesterday I went to church then home to eat and to be joined by Rick and DeeAnn. We enjoyed time out on the patio.

Today started with Bible Study, Mary and I are studying Sarah and Abraham.  After that I went into St. Cloud for my mammogram and Dexascan and had lunch at Perkins and after filling my tummy I did a little grocery shopping at Aldi's then home and a little mending etc.  

It was a very uneventful day.........Fran

It's going to be warm again

Hello From Rockville 
I went into St. Cloud today and stopped at the VA then to the Park Dinner for lunch, I really like their biscuits and gravy and I topped that off with a large OJ.  With a full tummy I proceeded to Aldis  for a few groceries then home for a nap.  The nap felt good as some where along the way I picked up a cold and I hope it goes away quickly I feel achy and I sneeze a lot. 
I miss Harlan and my trips to the VA to spend time with him.
We'll see what tomorrow brings....Fran 

An other day in our run of hot weather

Hello From Rockville

Tomorrow will be hot then it's suppose to cool down, it's so hot my flowers are wilted even when I water them.  

I had several projects to do today, meat to repackage and freeze and Becky had asked me to cover the arm rests in Walt's car, she gave me one for a pattern and when ever she wants them  they are ready.  

Tomorrow I have several appointments, a hair cut and then to Stearns county after that I'll meet Denese and Megan for lunch, with a full tummy I'll head home then in the afternoon I'll meet Denese and we'll head to the Cities and Cosco for some shopping.

That's it for now....Fran  

HOT - HEAT WAVE IN MN

Hello From Rockville
It is hot, I keep telling myself it will get COLD come winter and we'll wish for warmth. 

When DVBS ended on Thursday the offering given by the boys and girls was even, boys won two nights and the girls won two nights but for their program on Sunday the boys won, this contest was by weight not amount so pennies had more weight value then paper money.

I am doing well I keep busy and out of mischief.  I had a dentist appointment on Friday with good results and will go back in January for my 6month check.

We have had so much rain that one corner of our property here has standing water caused by run-off from out of town, wish we could share the rain with Texas.

Not much to write about will update again soon......Fran 

OHHH RAIN

Hello From Rockville

It's a good day to stay in and look out but I know that is impossible for many of you and today I had to go out too.  About a year ago I made an appointment for an eye check and this was the day.  The Dr. put drops in to dilate my eyes and a cloudy day was really a blessing (the rain wasn't) and I was able to get home just fine, it seems that the older I get the more sensitive my eyes get to the light when my eyes are dilated.  I got a very good report, I'll return again next year.

Yesterday I ran errands in St Cloud, the bank, the fabric store and the funeral home, topped off with lunch with Pat and Ken, so good to see them the time spent chatting and chewing was wonderful.  As everyone knows I love socialising so every chance I get I go.

As a followup on my ER trip, I feel great and glad it's behind me.

Tomorrow I have my 6 month dental check I want to keep my teeth as long as I live so I guess the price for that is good dental care.

We have DVBS at church this week and there is an adult class which Mary Lou and I are attending we take turns driving, this it Thursday and the last day for it.  Kids are bused in for it and it is a really fun evening from 7:00  to 9:00.  There is a contest going on between the boys and girls to see which ones can bring the most money, amount does not count just the weight, there are a lot of pennies given, I think the boys won two nights and the girls only once, we'll try and change that tonight.
Last night just before leaving for DVBS, Denese and I are in the living room relaxing and some one unlocks the door, not good when you don't expect anyone, how fun Sarah and DeeAnn walked in it was so much fun to see them, I think they had been playing "tag" with me and had been here several times during the day even leaving food in the fridge, but with the activities I had going I was just not home when they stopped.
I'll let you know how the contest goes........Fran

Rockfest Days

The day is done and a sort of calm has settled over us.  But first I must tell you about yesterday.  I didn't feel good just kind of "blaa".   By 6/6:30 Denese asked me if I wanted to go to ER and I decided that is what I should do, we took off about 7:00 PM.  To make a long story short we left there about 11:30 picked up a prescription and was home by 12:30.  I was having a bout with Diverticulitis an antibiotic should take care if.

Today was Rockfest Days, every town in US has a celebration uniquely their own.  And Rockvill's is called Rockfest.  Very near here was a "food court" with all kinds of fast food, hot dogs, sandwiches and drinks.  We picked up food then brought it home to eat.  I more or less took it easy (Dr. orders) all day, slept in until 8:45 this morning.  At 6:00 the parade started, Randy and Mary joined me in chairs under the tree in the front yard, lots of fire trucks and farmers tractors all clean freshly painted (they didn't look like they had seen a day of work in a dusty field).  Candy is thrown from every vehicle that drove down the street and the kids scramble for it carrying LARGE plastic bags, I think there were a few adults in the scrambling bunch.

At 10:00PM the fire works went off and again I can watch them from my patio and it would have been fun but the mosquitoes would not let us enjoy them, nasty critters! 

I think the whole thing ends with a street dance in down town Rockville which I'll miss, too far beyond my bed time and I don't dance.

That is what has happened here and now for an uninterrupted night of sleep.....Fran

An afternoon at the VA

Another beautiful day!!!

I went to the VA and spent an hour with the VA Support group then I went up to 50-1, Harlan's home for three years.  Everyone greeted me so warmly it was good to see them.  After a long visit Bev joined me for a treat, her "Porky" is on that floor and I got to know her when I spent time with Harlan.

We went to the Park Dinner, I had an Orange Float and she enjoyed a malt and she tried the sliders, not realizing there were two in a "set" she gave one to me, they are still as good as when we went, I had a good day, it was a little hard going back to Harlan's floor but it went well.

Tomorrow is another day we'll see how that goes......Fran

An Other Beautiful Day

We had a beautiful week-end and the weather continues.  We had a rain shower this morning and the temps were in the 80's.

I had a Dr. appointment and again I had to leave blood OUCH!, I just don't give it easily. After all that I needed nourishment so had breakfast out.  I should get a good report as I feel so good.  I have been having a sore throat that comes and goes the Dr suspected it may be allergies and suggested something over the counter which I'll do if it becomes bothersome. 

Becky called she wanted to come up, she spent time here we had a light supper then she went back home.

We'll see what tomorrow brings....Fran

BELATED HAPPY 4th OF JULY

Hello From Rockville

We had a beautiful day, a great day to be THANKFUL for our freedom to do what ever we want to.

Saturday Denese and I headed down to Roseville to spend time at Jenny's so they could take a mini vacation and we could enjoy time with the little ones.  Sunday I joined Doris and Bob for lunch we chatted and ate and had a great time it was so good to see them. 

This coming week will be busy tomorrow an appointment at 9:00 in Cold Spring on Wednesday I plan on a joining the support group for memory loss at the VA and on Friday an appointment at Stearns County about Harlan's disability.

I am doing well I keep busy and I cherish all your prayers and support...........Fran

A Beautiful Day :)

Some of you have asked me to continue my blog and I will.  This will my way to let you know my feelings and how I will fill my time, there is a BIG hole for me to fill constructively every afternoon.  

It is one week today since the service in North Minneapolis, leaving me with many wonderful memories.
Sue left Rockville on Tuesday, Denese, Sue and I went down to Maple Grove where we met Rick and Becky, Sue went home with Becky, she lives near the airport.  Sue flew out on Wednesday and had a good flight.  She wanted to take a plant on the plane, one of the plants we used for Harlan's funeral and they were very kind about storing it so she could take on with her.

Yesterday I joined Sarah for the Lemon Aid Fair at St. Cloud State and as with all Fairs you eat - eat - and eat some more.  Walked a lot and saw a lot neat things, watched a band with various drummers and took in a "Belly Dancer" performance.  It was a cool day with very little sun and even a sprinkle of rain.  
Last evening Denese hooked up a DVD so we could play the Memorial video of  pictures of Harlan and I'll show it today as Harold and Marilyn are coming for a visit this afternoon and I was able to show it to Rale and Mel last evening.  
God is so good to me, He has put people and activities into my life to make life good, there are many people praying for me, I sleep well at night and my days are full........Fran

Hello From Rockville

In just one week so much has happened.  About this time last Saturday (10:30PM) I received the phone call from the VA that Harlan had fallen and Sunday morning I went with him for x-rays which determined the seriousness of his fall, a broken hip, and early Tuesday morning he was gone, I did not get to say "Good-Bye" as no one else in our family was able to either he just quietly went home.  Becky had planned to be here on Tuesday to see her Dad and Sue came home on Wednesday, her plans were to see him too, God had other plans, plans to take him away from all his pain and his struggle to breath.  

The next several days were busy making plans to celebrate his life and with the help of Denese, Rick, Sue and Becky we put together a beautiful "story."  We had his burial in Minneapolis with a chapel service which Harold did with Paul singing Amazing Grace and the congregation sang Jesus Loves Me.  Harold gave a great message explaining the message of salvation and Sarah and Wes (both in uniform) unfolded the flag and draped his coffin with it.  At the grave side Harlan was honored with the Honor Guard giving him their respects with the 21 gun salute and taps.  The flag was folded and Sarah in uniform handed me the flag.  Before handing me the flag she saluted the casket.  The whole service was so touching.  

We then proceeded to Jenny's for a wonderful lunch which gave me a time to visit with so many friends that came.  It was a very touching day, a day that I will long remember.

Today was his memorial service at Granite City Baptist Church, another day that I will remember.  Pastor Campbell was the speaker of the day with Denese and Sue doing Harlan's obituary and reminiscing over things he had done with the Kids when they were young and Kristen with no accompaniment sang Amazing Grace (yes, we did it both days) it was beautiful.  Pastor Campbell also delivered a message on salvation.  We then proceeded to the Fireside room for another great lunch.    

There were so many people at both services, many more then I had ever dreamed would be there and they all touched me in so many ways.  

My next "job" will be to acknowledge everyone with a note of Thanks, this should keep me busy and out of "mischief" for a while. 

My life will change as it does when there is a void that has to be filled (every afternoon was occupied with a trip to the VA and about two and a half hours with Harlan going out for a daily treat, laying down with him and TV time together, Jeopardy and Millionaire,  I will miss him and that!

I most likely will not do a lot of Blog writing as my reason for writing was to put my feeling on paper, I love you all for reading this and I know many of you prayed for me in some of our difficult times, please don't stop I still need prayers.........Fran

Hello From Rockville

So much has gone on since I have written although I have only missed a couple days.  Monday Rick spent the day with me and early Tuesday morning Harlan passed away.  Becky came up on Tuesday and Sue flew in on Wednesday.  Megan picked her up at the airport and brought her part way to St. Cloud and Denese and I met them and we brought her to Rockville but first a stop at the funeral home to tie things together.  Today we had nothing pressing to do but managed to keep really busy.  The day ended with food at our monthly pot-luck here at John Clark.  Tomorrow will be the service at Crystal Lake Cemetery in Minneapolis with lunch at Jenny's.

Saturday will be a memorial service at Granite City Baptist Church in St. Cloud.  Tomorrow and Saturday will be hard for me but with all the support of family and friends I know things will go well.  God is so good He will walk with me through it all..............Fran

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com
Thing have moved quickly, faster then I could keep up with.  Harlan passed away this morning at about 2:30 AM and we are now planning his funeral which will be Friday at the cemetery  and Memorial Services Saturday at the church.  I am so thankful for family with all help for making decisions and helping everything to fall into place and it has.
Blogs will now be farther apart as my reason for blogging in gone and I may not have much to write about.  So Good Night until another time......Fran

Hello From Rockville 

Rick came and spent time with me.  First he stopped to see Harlan, I joined him then Sarah stopped.  Harlan seemed to know both Rick and Sarah, he had some discomfort while we were there and Sarah and I rubbed his arm and it calmed him.  His pain meds have been increased from every 4 hours to every 2 hours and that has helped him rest more comfortably.  

After our time with Harlan we went for lunch and I completed other shopping I had to do and Rick and I headed for Rockville and some visiting, he left for home and I headed back to the VA.  Denese was already with Harlan when I got there.  Denese said Harlan seemed to know her.  When I talked to him he opened his eyes to acknowledge me also.  We stayed with him until after 6:00.  The increase in his pain meds have helped but also that make him sleepy.  When he speaks it is hard to understand him as it's more of a mumble then words.

Becky will be coming up tomorrow to spend time with us, I look forward to seeing her.......Fran 

Hello From Rockville

I'm writing this blog with a heavy heart.  What a difference 24 hours can make in one's life.  Yesterday Harlan played bingo and won two games then out to McD for a hot fudge sundae, we enjoyed our time together, and as I have often said each day together is a blessing and yesterday was.  On the way back while walking to the elevator we were about to meet several kitchen workers but before we could meet them they disappeared into the kitchen as they disappeared Harlan commented under his breath, "Chicken" and laughed. Today he is bedridden with a severely broken leg, he fell last night in his room and the prognosis isn't very hopeful, he would need surgery followed by PT and with his COPD surgery would be risky and with his dementia PT is almost impossible, he can no longer follow instructions.   The PT would probably hurt at the least be very uncomfortable and he would not cooperate.  It is very hard to see some one you love who has been so active both physically and mentally be reduced to the mental capability of a 2/3 year old. 

I will try and write to let you know how things are going..........Fran

Harlan at McDonalds

Hello From Rockville fplatzer@mywdo.com

Harlan's Hearing Aid

Hello From Rockville 

I talked to the staff about the things Harlan has lost in the last several weeks - billfold, hearing aid, remote control and teeth - hoping these items could be located.  I also talked to them about replacing his teeth, this will be looked into.

I went to see Harlan and noticed he needed to take his neb and I told him if he wanted to go out for a treat he needed to do that and he agreed to.  I found a hearing aid on his night stand and it wasn't working so I replaced the battery and put it in his ear, it worked.  While Harlan was doing his neb I cleaned his glasses then went to the nurses station to deposit the spent battery, Priscilla asked if I heard about his hearing aid and I hadn't.  She went to see if she could encourage him to take his meds, inhalers etc. and asked him to spit out the candy or what ever he had in his mouth, she got a Kleenex for him to spit in and guess what he had in his mouth - his hearing aid - good thing he only has bottom teeth or it would have been history and he may have been too as the hearing aid battery has Mercury in not the best food to eat.

We went to Culver's for ice cream and stopped at McD for coffee.  We got back to watch TV, do meds and take a nap, at least Harlan napped.  I was able to convince him to go to supper but it took about 10 minuets of coaxing before he would go, he did and I went home.  So ended another day.....Fran

Thoughts on Sunday

Hello From Rockville

Sunday was a hard day for me but in thinking back on it Harlan said some humorous things.  His lower teeth were soaking in a "dish" and I knew if he wanted to eat I had to put them back in his mouth, I cleaned them and asked him to open his mouth so I could put them in he just couldn't open his mouth wide enough and he looked at me and says, "Nothing that big should ever go in any ones  mouth!" He just wanted to be left alone,  so I asked him if I should go home he told me yes.  I did a few things in his room, he never opened his eyes but retorted to me, "Are still here?"  Even when things are difficult we can always find things to laugh about and life goes on.

Now about today - A very warm day but that will come to an end tomorrow is suppose be about 30 degrees cooler then today, it may even feel chilly.  Because the temps were in the very high 90's I chose not to take Harlan out.  I gave him a much needed hair cut, he used to complain about how short I was cutting it but now with his mirror covered he doesn't know he has a "butch" and because he no longer can keep it combed it always looks neat when it's short.  I shaved him too, he no longer has any desire to shave and really doesn't care if he is shaved or not.  I do try to shave him daily.  I just like to help him look neat and clean, he used to be concerned about how he looked and did a good job.

We had a good day today, tomorrow will be a busy day but much cooler........Fran

Hot - Hot - Hot ! ! ! ! !

Hello From Rockville

Yes, today was hot and tomorrow will be similar.  When it is over 90 in Minnesota it's hot and with high dew points it's even worse. 

First this morning was Bible Study with Mary and I washed clothes. At 9:30 it was time to deliver the mail, I posted a note pertaining to our garage/patio sale had some lunch and it was time to spend time with Harlan.

I took him to the Park Diner and he had sausage, scrambled eggs and pancakes he ate some but not a lot.  No, he does not have his teeth they have not been found.  His billfold is still missing and also his one hearing aid.  He now has two pair of glasses which I'm thankful for as he really needs glasses to see and when one pair is lost or down for repair he does have a spare. 

Today was a good day and I enjoyed our time together...........Fran

The Diamonds Are Gone

Hello From Rockville

Denese finished painting my bedroom, the last to go were the "Diamonds" DeeAnn had carefully painted on the wall behind my bed.  They no longer matched the new colors in my room and my bed no longer rested in front of them.  I'll miss them!

I went to see Harlan, today was bingo and he did not win a game but he was able to find some of the numbers called, I'm glad he can still participate a little bit.  When I came in he was excited to see me and gave me a big hug and mentioned that tomorrow was church and he wanted to go.  Then came bingo after that we went to McD for a treat, a hot fudge sundae and a cup of coffee.  He seems some better but now his eyes seem sore first the left one then both.

He was unhappy when I left and I could not figure why, he would not give me a "Good-bye kiss", he wouldn't even say good-bye. 

He is still missing his teeth, billfold and a hearing aid.  Tomorrow is another day, maybe some will show up tomorrow........Fran

A little rain and a little warm

Hello From Rockville

I did a little shopping today B4 I went to see Harlan.  I watched him sleep as he was so tired, he was running a fever which may have accounted for his tiredness.  I did not take him out, too hard to figure out what he should eat.  He asks about his teeth and his billfold, that is gone too, also one hearing aid.  I'm sure he put them some where but we don't know where, and he doesn't either.  These items have disappeared B4 and have showed up hope it happens again. 

I met Denese at Shopko, they had hanging baskets on sale, we picked up two to add to our patio and I think we are done with flowers, no where to put any more.

Tomorrow is another day with more surprises we'll what they are...........Fran

Cool Car

Hello From Rockville

I made three trips to St. Cloud.  I had an 8:00 AM car appointment, the usual, oil change etc. and I needed to get my AC fixed.  This time they found the problem and needed three hours to fixed it, I was not going to hang out there for that amount of time.  They had already taken me to the Park Diner for breakfast and now they were going to take me home.  I did not need to be home right away so I just went along for the ride while she "delivered" several other customers to their work places then it was my turn.  At noon a phone call informed me my car was ready and as soon as my transportation arrived I was on the way.  It was so good to ride in a "cool car" once again.  A stop at Tuesday Morning with a return then on my way to spend time with Harlan.  Harlan is not feeling very good, he just wants to sleep and I let him sleep because with no teeth (they have not been found) there was no point in taking him out, what can he eat, certainly not his favorite sliders.  When I checked his closet he was completely out of jeans, tomorrow is bath day and he needed jeans so I went home to pick up the jeans (trip number three) I had two pair one 32 and a 34, the 34's will be a little large, that is better then Pj's for the day.  

He has one pair of glasses back and today his second pair went down for repair, the lenses keep falling out.  

So went my day, tomorrow should be quieter...........Fran 

I think spring returned today

Hello From Rockville
A beautiful day.  

My day started with a clean house that was followed by a meeting at the VA, this was our support group, we meet several times a month.  We had a good meeting and an excellent speaker, we learned much.

I then preceded to building 50-1 to spend time with Harlan only to find him in his room with no upper teeth but he did get his glasses back all repaired and ready for him.   The next dilemma,  "When I take him out what can I get for him to eat?"  He loves hamburgers but without teeth how do you eat hamburgers or anything of substance?  We settled on a hot fudge sundae, no nuts no cherry, I didn't want him to choke, he didn't eat it all and all the while eating it he asked me if I hadn't found his teeth yet.  They tore his room apart looking for them, they were no where to be found, hope they show up tomorrow.  

Before leaving the VA the security system went in to lock-down mode, you couldn't get in or out of 50-1 all doors locked and the elevators wouldn't run this was in effect for about 5 min. until the system was "fixed".

That was my day...............Fran 

Yesterday HOT today cool and windy

Hello From Rockville

Yesterday was a busy fun day.  I spent the afternoon with Harlan, he was very tired and had a hard time getting going but we joined Rick, DeeAnn and Sarah at Culvers for a treat then back to the VA for a rest time.  I left early (B4 5:30) because he just wanted to sleep.  Came home and helped Denese put the finishing touches on dinner.  Rick brought freshly caught and cleaned ready to fry fish which I fried, they were SOOO GOOD!!! Denese made potato salad, baked beans and with the fish we had a great meal, she topped if off with fresh home made blueberry pie (home made crust too) topped with real whipped cream.  There were six of us, Rick & DeeAnn and Sarah & Wes and Denese and I we enjoyed eating out on the patio.

Today after a Dr. appointment and lunch in Cold spring I went in to see Harlan.  He was waiting for me as I got off of the elevator, we went to the PD for a treat, his usual hamburgers sliders and I settled for a cup of coffee, too many afternoon treats is making me "rolely polely" the scale nearly died at the Dr. office!  

I left the VA early, no where to park, the whole area was having a seal coating after several patching jobs and it will look nice when I go in tomorrow, our tax money at work. 

Tomorrow another "Too busy for any mischief day", but that's okay I like it busy..........Fran