Sunday, April 2, 2025, MN

 What a lovely Easter I just had at Lois and Dennis’ house. She made the entire brunch meal with two kinds of quiche, a frittata, deviled eggs, muffins, and a fruit tray.  My contribution was chocolates from the Drooling Moose shop here in Bloomington.  

Jill’s creative spirit had the girls working together to solve 25 riddles, each correct answer led them to a hiding place where a candy filled egg was found.  When they collected all 25 of the prizes, they got to open the Golden Egg that had $20 for each of them.  She comes up with the greatest challenges for them - of course there was some grumbling but they got into it and had fun doing it.

Friday, April 18, 2025, MN

 A Happy, Happy Birthday to my niece Becky today! 

It has been an active and busy week with several more sessions of helping people with their income tax for renters refunds. Building 2 finally got there certificate of rent paid on the day after tax due day and I had to redo several that I had done for folks in that building. What a pain! 

I helped out with food shelf on Wednesday and Joey and I went for a nice walk around Girard Park.  

Yesterday, I cleaned for Cassie & Tommy and had an appointment later in the afternoon to get my permanent crown.  I am so satisfied with my dentist and his assistant - the temporary was comfortable and the permanent fits perfectly. I’m not too satisfied with the cost, as even with my insurance, it is $725 out of my pocket. 

Cathy texted me shortly after I finished my dinner last night and invited me over for a glass of wine and some conversation.  We had lots of that! I didn’t even have to put on shoes to go there!  I’m thankful that we have become good friends and neighbors.

As I was reading the news this morning, I got a text from Patty letting me know that Judy passed away last night.  She and I have been friends since 6th grade and my visits to Stoughton won’t be the same without being able to see her.  She will be missed by so many! 

Spring is getting closer! The grass is green, the shrubs are starting to leaf out, I’ve see n Magnilia trees in full bloom, my first blooming Pasqueflower, and today - a Goldfinch singing at me from a branch in the tree.  Life is good!

Sunday, April 13, 2025, MN

 The week has been busy, helping neighbors with their renters refund on Thursday and Friday, only to learn that the workaround for the folks in Building 2 is much more challenging than it should be.  Without a Certificate of Rent paid that should be provided by our landlord, they need to contact the Department of Revenue by phone (a 40+ minute wait) or by email.  I helped a few sent email request and a couple of gals did it by phone.  They now have to wait to get the form from the state before they can submit their taxes in order to get the refund.  What a pain! I haven’t felt stress like that in a long, long time and I’m trying real hard to let it go.

I cleaned my humidifier and when I turned it back on, it just kept shutting off.  I still had the manual, so I tried to fix it and when that didn’t work, I called the company, Lasko.  The service technician was so helpful and patient, telling me what to do to fix the issue and it still didn’t work. His solution was to offer me one-time complimentary replacement that I am 100% satisfied with - I had to cut the cord at the machine, take a photo and email it to him. It wasn’t long after that, I got an email telling me that the replacement had been shipped and I should receive it in 5-7 days.  Now, that is customer service and I will be loyal to that brand in the future. 

Sherry and I went to Willy McCoy’s for dinner Friday night and it was already loud and packed with a 20 minute wait at 4:30. So we headed to the Northstar Tavern and had a nice, quiet dinner and conversation.   We both had the walleye dinner and it was very tasty with the exception of the coleslaw that was dry and had no flavor.

Yesterday, after a couple more tax sessions, she and I headed out to Eagan to a couple of estate sales. It’s nice to have a friend who likes to do that, as it is something that I normally do all by myself. One of the sales had absolutely beautiful artwork and I was so attempted to buy a new ring (there were 3-4 that I really liked) but then - do I really want it and will I wear it?  I left without one.

Ben invited me to join the for a BBQ rib dinner, so I made a batch of baked beans and Jill made potato salad and Charlotte and her friend Lily made chocolate cupcakes that were frosted by Camille and Norah. Everyone contributed.  I wasn’t very happy with the way the beans turned out, I used a Martha Stewart recipe that called for lots of cloves - I cut way back to less than half - and they still had a way too strong clove flavor.  Oh well, live and learn.  It was nice hanging out with the family.  

Wednesday, April 9, 2025, MN

 The weekend at Ben’s was uneventful and I spent Monday finishing up on my laundry and cleaning their house so I could leave it in tip top shape for their return.  I left there about 6:30 to go back home and they got home about 9:00. They weren’t home for an hour before I heard from Ben on how nice it was to get home to a sparkly clean home. That made me feel real good!  It’s nice being back to my own home.

I ended up having to go in to see my doctor yesterday for a follow-up on my recent UTI. The good news is that it is completely cleared up and I got some suggestions on how to prevent getting another one.  I am so happy with my doctor - I never feel rushed and I feel that she is very knowledgeable and willing to present options that might not include a treatment with drugs.

I helped 4 more residents with their MN income tax forms today and they all left feeling pretty good about the renters refund that they will be getting - much more this year and nobody has a clue as to why that is. I’m not complaining - mine is almost double this year.

I could resist buying this adorable jigsaw puzzle the other day and it was a really fun one to do.  It brought back many memories of my travels with my little trailer.

Friday, April 4, 2025, MN

 Dang! Another storm came through here on Tuesday evening and dropped another 3-4” of heavy, wet snow on us.  Temps on Wednesday got in the upper 30s so it melted pretty quickly.  This was taken when I woke up around midnight.

Since the weather was so nasty, I got busy and got the girls bedrooms and bathrooms cleaned, so I have a bit less to do on Monday before the family gets home.  It’s kind of nice to be able to spread out the job over several days rather than pack it into one.  

Lois invited me to go with her to the Galleria mall to see the flower show that Bachmans puts on there every year.  The huge island arrangements were scattered throughout the mall and it was so nice to see colorful arrangements and beautiful tropical plants. We were both a little disappointed that there really wasn’t much of a flowery odor except when we got near some hyacinths.  There were a few Jasmine plants here and there but they didn’t even have an odor.

I cleaned for Cassie & Tommy yesterday and it went quickly because the dog was at the groomer and Tommy was out of town (he works from home).  It is a pretty easy job and I always feel the reward of leaving things sparkly clean for them when they get home.  They appreciate my work and pay me quite well.

I went to dinner with Lois and Dennis to the Lion’s Tap last night - it is located out in the middle of nowhere in Eden Prairie and has been a popular burger joint for many years, it is a hopping place.  They serve only hamburgers and French fries and local craft beers.  My burger was delicious and it really hit the spot.  I will definitely go there again.

This morning started out with a nice walk with Lois and the dogs at Minnewashta Regional Park.  The dog park is closed for Dutch Elm tree removal, so we walked the trails.  It’s a good thing that I wore my muck boots, as the lake trail was very wet until we got on higher ground.  When we got near the beach and a wide open area, Lois let Yoshi off the leash and let him run around for a bit.  It wasn’t long and a ranger came walking up to us and reminded us that they have to be kept leashed.  Busted!  It was a nice hour long walk and felt so good after being cooped up for several gloomy, wet days.

I took a nice, long shower and got ready to go to a birthday party for Heidi, one of my new friends that is part of Cathy’s circle of friends..  Cathy is staying at her daughter’s house in Richfield this week, so she took advantage of the space to entertain her group of seven ladyfriends and we had a fun night of lots of talk, laughter, and great food and drink. One of the group, Tilly is not back from her winter in Florida’s, so she joined for a while in a FaceTime call.  Dinner was beef and cheese fondue with lots of veggies, an assortment of breads, and then chocolate fondue for dessert with strawberries, angel food cake, and pound cake.  We started early and I expected to be home early but it was almost 9:00 when I got back. What a fun night!

Heidi, Karen, Cathy, Me, Sandy, Susie, and Jodi

Tuesday, April 1, 2025, MN

 Happy 58th Anniversary to Rita and Denny, married on this day in 1967 at St Ann’s Catholic Church in Stoughton.  That is some good longevity!  

I spent quite a bit of time last week helping residents with their income tax so they could get the renters refund that the state offers.  Initially, I thought it was going to be real pain but after doing several (twelve so far), it is going smoothly and each one takes only about 10 minutes.  

We had a wintry storm on Saturday that left us with a 2” coating of snow on the ground. It did not stick to the roads and was mostly gone by early afternoon the next day when the temps got up in the 40s.  Another similar weather event is predicted for today and tomorrow, although it looks like this one is tracking farther to the  north. 

I had a physical therapy consultation on Friday and was given a few stretches to do to see if I can get some relief for the pressure behind my eyes.  That is the one symptom that is most uncomfortable right now, although I still have these strange episodes a few times during the day and night.

I started gathering up stuff to take with me to Ben and Jill’s house where I will be spending the next week while they are on vacation.  I was loaded up this morning and got here by 9:30.  It should be a relaxing time in a beautiful place.

Tuesday, March 25, 2025, WI, MN

 Monday was another nonstop, whirlwind kind of day.  Dawn and I walked over to Sunrise Restaurant and met with Mary, Lori, and Erin. Jonnie was not feeling good, so she didn’t join us.  We ended up sitting there for 2.5 hours talking, laughing, and reminiscing.  

When we got back home, we took Joey for a walk and then had about 10 minutes to rest before we left for a tour of some apartments at Greenspire.  I know, I haven’t mentioned this much but I have decided to move back to Stoughton and this is one of the subsidized options there.  Every apartment was remodeled last summer and cabinets, appliances, bathrooms, heating & AC, patios or balconies were all completely redone.  It is a complex of about 80 units in ten two-story buildings.  The grounds are nice with mature trees and it is location in a residential area.  After seeing the options, I am thinking a 2nd floor unit with balcony would be preferred. So…I am looking at a possible move in July or August, depending on availability of units.  

The hardest part about this will be moving away from Ben and his family, as I have been closely involved with them for the last 13+ years.  My thinking on this is that when I do come to his house for a visit, it will be more hands on quality time spent with the family - rather than the little snippets of time we have together now.  I feel that I am ready for small town living again, will welcome the quiet that comes with that, and I don’t feel I will ever lack for an active social life.  

Dawn and I went to The Feiring, a new restaurant in town and had a cocktail and a serving of bruschetta that were both yummy. Then we walked over to Fahrenheit 361 and she had a glass of wine and I abstained since I was feeling pretty chipper after the jalapeño margarita that I had at the previous place.  I dropped her off and then went to hang out with Pat and Tracey for about an hour before saying our goodbyes.  The days have been really busy and full and I have slept so good every night - including an 8-hour window of sleep one night - that just doesn’t happen for me very often.

This morning I was packed up and ready to hit the road by 9:30 and I made it home by 3:00 with a short stop at Randy’s house in St Paul to drop off a care package from Dawn. It feels real good to be back home and I enjoyed a nice, hot bath and walk to the park.

Sunday, March 23, 2025, MN, WI

Fifty-seven years ago today, Mike and I got married in San Bernardino, CA - a day that started our life together, raising our two sons, having lots of adventures, and becoming the best of friends.  It’s so sad that only 45 of them were spent together.  I miss him. 

 I cleaned house for Cassie and Tommy and made an easy $100 that is always good for the pocket.  After I got home, I walked Joey and while walking, I got a call from Judy asking if I was coming to art class. Oops! So after getting ready for my next appointment, I headed to class and we made a mosaic painting that turned out really cute.  After class, I went to my bone density test appointment and was ready to veg out at home when I got back home.

I packed up and was on the road and heading to Stoughton by about 9:15.  The drive was easy, road conditions were great, and the trip went fine.  I saw huge flicks of pelicans along the Mississippi River and several Herons in the sky too.  Traffic was quite heavy after hitting Wisconsin Dells.  I visited with Dawn for a while and then went to see Pat and Tracey - it was great to get hugs again from them.  We had Reuben sandwiches for dinner and then I headed back to Dawn’s house.

Friday was a whirlwind, starting with coffee, a nice walk, and breakfast with Dawn.  I then went to visit Judy, who stopped dialysis treatments last October and is still doing fairly well, although I do feel that this might be the last time I see her.  We had a very nice visit, reminisced about a lot of things, and then we hugged and said ‘see you later’.  And I cried when I got to my car.

My next stop was to see Susan and Joey and Rocky finally met - they came quick friends and got along fine, although they didn’t play together.  We had a nice visit, always finding lots to talk about.  We have been good friends for a long, long time.

Pat and Tracey and I ordered pizza for dinner and watched “A Million Ways to Die in the West” a fun parody of the old west that brought lots of laughs.

I spent most of the day today with Pat and Tracey, helping Tracey clear out her closet (she still has difficulty getting her hangers hung) and part of that is because she has way too many clothes in there - not much room to hang more.  I also helped her with her laundry and then made a pasta, meatball, cheese and marinara hot dish for dinner that turned out to be yummy.  I will definitely make that again. 

Wednesday, March 19, 2025, MN

 Wow!  I’m just sitting here next to the window having my coffee this morning when I see cop pull a blue pickup truck over.  He goes to the truck and is there for about five minutes when another cop pulls up behind him and goes to the truck.  As they are taking the woman from the truck, three more officers pull up behind (one is unmarked) and another unmarked car pulls up in front with lights flashing.  There doesn’t appear to be any scuffle, I can see the woman surrounded by cops and they start to search the truck with big bright lights, then they take photos from many different angles and put the woman in the cop car.  It will be interesting to see what the news has to say about this one.  

Tuesday, March 18, 2025, MN

 My big news today is that I DO NOT need surgery for the compressed disks in my spine - the Neurologist feels that it is not severe enough to warrant surgery and has referred me to a physical therapy consultation to determine if I can relieve some of the discomfort that I have been experiencing (numbness and pressure on my left side). I am relieved and willing to do what is necessary to feel better.  

Ben and Jill invited me and Lois & Dennis to dinner on Sunday he made a yummy Vietnamese dish called Bun Cha - grilled pork meat balls that were served on a bed of rice noodles, cucumbers, cilantro, and mint and a yummy sauce over the top.  I made a strawberry crumble for dessert and Lois brought Oatmeal Raisin cookies. It was great to hang out with them all. 

This morning, I put potatoes, carrots, onions and corned beef in the crock pot and had it simmering all day long.  There wasn’t room in the crock pot for cabbage, so I tried roasting the slices in the oven with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and bacon crumbles - yummy! I met with my Stampin Up group and then headed out to my doctor appointment.  Sherry from Building II joined me and Deb came by and had a beer with us.  It was a nice evening hanging out with the girls.

Thursday, March 13, 2025, MN

 Well, another serious health possibility has been ruled out today when I had an ultrasound of the Carotid arteries to determine if there was blockage that might have caused the strange ‘unable to speak’ symptom that I had a couple of weeks ago during an episode.  The ultrasound showed less that 50% stenosis of the arteries, so they are not blocked and are functioning well.  This leads me to believe that the episodes that I have been having are all related to the compressed disks in my upper spine. They continue, have changed over the last six weeks and are now just mostly brief warm, numbing pressure sensations that are mostly concentrated from my left shoulder to ear that happen periodically throughout the day.

I also had my annual physical on Monday and she was in agreement that the symptoms could be caused by the compression of the disks and that any slight movement could cause discomfort.  She has ordered the usual mammogram (I had that on Wednesday and there are no issues there) and a bone density and a meeting with a pharmacist to review my meds and supplements.  To complete my medical stuff for the year, I will still need to see the dentist and have a vision check.  

Cathy asked me to do her taxes for her and I agreed but just have to wait for the Certificate of Rent paid from our landlord (they were due to us on January 28 and MN gives refunds to renters, so even if you don’t have to file income taxes, you can file for the renters refund).

I made a big pot of 15 Bean and Ham soup today, had a bowl for dinner, and gave a bowl to Cathy, and will take some to Ben and his family today when I clean.  That still left me with at least two more meals - yummy!

Saturday, March 8, 2025, MN

 I had my annual physical on Monday and that all worked out just fine.  Her opinion regarding the episodes that I’m having was that it could all be related to the compressed disk and any slight movement could cause that to happen.  She did order an electrolyte panel blood test to determine if my heart medicines were all still ok and I heard back that no changes should be made.  She also suggested that I meet with a pharmacy specialist to review my current meds, a mammogram and a bone density test.  Guess I have a few more appointments coming up in the near future.

We had a big winter storm all through the night on Tuesday and Wednesday and it dumped about a foot of heavy wet snow on us.  I heard from Mary, the Food Truck coordinator on Tuesday night that she would let me know on Wednesday morning if the delivery would be made.  Several volunteers gathered in the community room and waited at least an hour but the truck never showed and I never got a call, nor were my calls returned.  They made the delivery on Friday instead.

Lois invited me to go to the Spring Junkarama event in Shakopee with her and it was fun to look around, bringing back lots of memories of antiques and stuff that I have owned in the past.  My only purchases were a bottle of local Maple Syrup that was already on my grocery list and an interesting little fern plant.  Lois bought a plant stand for her porch.  It was fun!

I’ve been working on a 1,000 piece ‘Puzzle Twist’ puzzle of the Minnesota State Fair this week and managed to finish it in four days.  What a challenge! The puzzle itself turns out to be different from the picture on the outside of the box - items can be arranged differently, can be different colors, and there are also a few added items.  The top photo is the box and the bottom one is the finished puzzle with a few of the differences circled.  

   

Monday, March 3, 2025, MN

 Last week was quite the week.  The deal for the Camry fell through, as George was not willing to negotiate with splitting the cost to replace the starter and I was not comfortable paying his full asking price plus that expense, so I backed out.  Not a problem, as my RAV4 is still in great shape and will get me where I’m going for a long, long time. Beverly felt bad and was afraid that it would jeopardize our friendship - no way!

I had spent the last 10 days or so with very few of the tingling, numbing effects that I had been having and I was feeling so good on Wednesday that I made a pot of Cream of Potato soup, a salad, and drop biscuits and took them over to share with Ben’s family.  Everyone loved the soup and it is always a compliment when you are asked to share a recipe.  We had a nice visit.

Unfortunately, the weird symptoms came back early the next morning and have continued to repeat every hour to hour and a half with an occasional break of several hours.  I have sent an email to the neurologist’s nurse and hope that I get a response before too long.  I was able to get a decent night of sleep last night, had a few episodes but did not record them and was able to go back to sleep.  My annual physical is today.

Cathy invited me for dinner on Saturday night and she made a delicious chicken chow mein.  I whipped up a batch of chocolate chip cookies to share and also took them to the swim meet yesterday.

I went to the girls’ swim meet yesterday and they are all doing so well.  They each swam in four events and most of their previous times were improved upon.  Charlotte took a first place in the 50 Yard Fly.  She also swam her second 500 yard freestyle event and said that she really likes the endurance of that one.  Norah and Camille each had a second place event too.  

Saturday, February 22, 2025, MN

I had my appointment with the neurosurgeon, Dr. Charles Watts on Monday and most of my symptoms have dissipated. Ben came to the appointment with  me and we both felt it was a thorough exam and we covered all of the details and he thought there might be a chance that the warm, tingly, prickly sensations could be due to a Vitamin B12 deficiency and ordered a blood test for that and also an EMG that looks at the condition of the nerves.  I had that test (a very uncomfortable) tesr that sends electrical signals into the affected body parts (my left arm & leg) with either a pad that was stuck to my skin or a needle that sent an electrical signal into my skin. My B12 levels are normal and also the nerve study proved to be normal.  The neurosurgeons comments after seeing these results were a possible neurological exam that would be repeated every six months to look for neurological issues.  My follow-up appointment is not until March 17.  Ben and I went to lunch at the Perk Up Cafe in my neighborhood after the appointment. 

It has been another frigid week with temps barely reaching 0° until today when our high was 37°.  That meant that Joey and I did not get any good walks in but resorted to quick in and out jaunts just long enough for him to go potty.  I am spending the weekend ar Ben and Jill’s house, so Lois and I met up at the Minnewashta Dog Park this afternoon and both Joey and Yoshi had a blast running and chasing and meeting lots of other dogs. It felt so good to be out in nature and have a nice companion to chat with.

Our food shelf this week was organized by me and Cindy and we did a great job of pulling it off.  It became our responsibility when our Service Coordinator, Maureen, was fired just after the last one.  Weird - she was fired and escorted out the door by the local police, came back on Monday to get her personal items and was escorted by police on that trip too.  I kind of get the feeling that she might have made some threats or became violent but I really don’t know.

My sweet little frail 97 year old friend, Beverly, called me last week to see if I was interested in buying her car.  I must have said something to her in the past. I am seriously considering buying it and selling mine.  It is a 2002 Toyota Camry XLE with 127,000 miles on it for $3,000 compared to my RAV4  that has 190,000 miles on it.  The Camry is the top of the line model with leather interior, heated seats, power windows and seats, sun roof, clean as can be, and there is hardy a blemish on the body. It has been stored outdoors in her friend George’s driveway for the last 6 winters and has been driven, but not a lot.   I took it to my mechanic, it turns out that he has also been her mechanic, and had it checked out, it will be needing a starter, but everything else checked out (other than possible future shocks and struts and exhaust - just general wear and tear.  I will be meeting with George on Tuesday to see if we can come up with acceptable terms for both of us.

Monday, February 17, 2025, MN

 I have felt better each day since Friday, finally waking up without feeling intense sinus pressure this morning and actually slept in 3-4 hour shifts last night instead of waking up hourly.  Woo Hoo!  

I do feel some anxiety about my appointment with the neurosurgeon this morning, but am determined to face it, fix it, recover, and get on with my life.  Ben is going to the appointment with me and then we are going for breakfast.

Saturday’s temps were reasonable enough that Joey and I were able to get a couple of decent walks in. That will not be happening for the next 4 days as temps are expected to linger in the 0° range.  I might be tossing the ball down the hallway for him to chase.

Yesterday was Ben’s 48th birthday and the girls had a time trial swim meet early in the day but I stayed home and watched it all on You Tube.  Jill planned a fun birthday celebration for him and we all met at the bowling alley and played 2 rounds and then ween to Woodfire Grill for dinner.  I did not bowl, as I do not want to put a strain on my spine and do any additional damage.  

Charlotte announced that she has made it to the Junior Swim Team and will be competing at a higher level now.  She came in first  in the 500 yard freestyle today, winning by an entire pool length and she told us that she really likes the distance swimming.  I sat next to her at dinner and she is such a pleasant teenager who is excelling in school and always has a big beautiful smile on her face.  

Norah and Camille are also growing up to be such sweet girls, getting great grades in school, having lots of friends, and stick together like glue.  I gave them some money to play the driving game at the bowling alley and Norah waited until Camille could drive the car next to her.  The twin thing is so evident in many things, although they have their own individual personalities and interests.  Ben and Jill are such good parents, strict in the sense that they need to behave in a respectful manner but yet fun and engaging and willing for them to learn through life experiences. 

Friday, February 14, 2025, MN

 This week continued with feeling mostly sh*##%, due to taking the antibiotic for sinus infection and the recurring symptoms that I have had since last Thursday. When I woke up this morning, I thought “I feel pretty normal!” But still have some slight sinus pressure and got sleep but not good, interrupted sleep.

I had made an appointment with physical therapy based on what others have told me of options to help with back issues and also to see if there were things I could do to strengthen the area before surgery, if needed.  After talking with her, they would not suggest anything other than seeing the neurosurgeon and the surgery will be necessary because of the location of the severe compression in the spine.  So I guess I’m getting my ducks in a row for that but will know much more after my appointment on Monday.

I did manage to do the majority of my house cleaning job at Ben’s on Thursday, the only thing I didn’t do was the vacuuming.  It felt good to be up and about and he and I had a good conversation.  I also delivered the pop up valentines that I made for the girls that were just cute as could be.   Each one was slight different and they were fun to make. 

When I got home last Saturday, my friend and neighbor, Beverly, called to ask me if I was interested in buying her car.  Apparently, I had told her in the past that I might be interested, and yes, I am.  It is a spotless 2002 Toyota Camry XLE (loaded) model with 122,000 miles and year old tires. Compared to my 2007 RAV4 with 190,000 miles, tires that are almost due to replace, and a few body dings, it makes total sense to me and my sons agree,  The last few years, it has been stored at her friend George’s home during the worst of winter as she didn’t drive in snowy conditions and it has been so slightly driven the last few years.  I will be dealing with George on the sale, having it checked out by my mechanic, Eric, and then dealing with selling mine.  They are fine with having no rush because of my current health issues but I would like to take care of it quickly if I can. 

I made it through another anniversary of Mike’s passing and really try to do just that.  The events leading up to it can’t be forgotten but I would much rather celebrate the life we had together on our anniversary and his birthday, 45 years together for a roller coaster ride is nothing to forget!

Monday, February 10, 2024, MN

 What a week! And I’m going to say what a shitty week!  Last Wednesday, food shelf day, me and the other helpers weren’t sure that we would even get a delivery since our service coordinator was fired last Friday.  Several of us showed up and the truck showed up and provided us with some nice groceries. And now, Cindy and I are going to coordinate until they get a replacement coordinator hired.  The management here, especially at Building 2, are so unhelpful and unfriendly that they have made the tone a bit uncomfortable. People are gathering, writing letters to corporate, and complaining amongst themselves and it really hasn’t been too pleasant.  I just try to stay out of it.

Things turned really sour when I came in from my early morning walk with Joey on Thursday morning and felt a warm, flush, numby feeling from the waist down that only lasted a minute or so.  I thought it was strange, but set about my day and headed off to clean Cassie and Tommy’s house.  As I was getting organized, another similar feeling struck and I sat down and waited for it to dissipate.  And those sensations came back off and on for the next 24 hours, more frequently through the night.  So I called my doctor and was told to head for the ER.  Leslie gave me a ride to Methodist hospital where I was checked in and tested. 

They started with blood work, then I had a CT scan that showed no signs of any blockage or stroke or any related issue like that, my heart is working good and there is no cancer or tumors. Since the symptoms continued, I spent the night and had an MRI the next morning.  Bingo! Found it! The MRI showed stenosis (narrowing of the space between backbones), putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that travel through the spine.) at the C5, C6 and C7 levels of the spine and surgery is suggested to put spacers in the spine to relieve the pressure.  I was released, Ben brought me back home and I am reading up on what all of the options are.  I will be scheduling appointments with the surgeons this week, getting a second opinion and seeing if there are any other treatment other than surgery, but it kind of sounds like surgery might be the only option as it can cause paralysis. I'm definitely shook up, as it means a 3-month recovery and is a painful procedure. I'm going to gather all the information I can to make a wise decision and my sons are good at asking the questions that I don't come up with. 

The episodes continue occurring every 1-2 hours, don’t last long, are not painful or harmful (unless they get worse) and I feel ok in between other than not getting much sleep and the effects of antibiotics. 

Mike and I sure had a couple of good sons - Ben was with me most of time and he kept Pat informed and Pat is willing to head this way if needed. They are both very sensible and will be here for me through whatever comes about.

Sunday, February 2, 2025, MN

 It was an early start to the day when I headed out at 7:45 for the U of M Aquatic Center where each of my 3 granddaughters were swimming in four swimming events.  Norah was not happy that all four of her events were 200 yard competitions.  She did well, was especially strong on the backstroke.  Camille did well, improving most of her previous times and Charlotte took 1st place in the 100 yard freestyle and had a big smile on her face when she came out of the water.  There were two goggle malfunctions and both were disqualified from those events but not because of adjusting goggles - I’m not sure the reason for it.  It was a good morning for the Bridge girls and always feels good to be cheering them on, along with their parents and maternal grandparents.  

Cathy came over and delivered some yummy valentines cutout cookies to me in the afternoon and we had a glass of wine and nice chat.  

Saturday, February 1, 2025, MN

 Today started out on a fine note with a lovely morning walk that was followed by a welcome conversation with Pat.  We didn’t talk last weekend and I certainly missed hearing his voice.  We talked a bit about the current state of political affairs with Donald Trump setting the tone for a term of chaos.  Pat could see some of the changes that he is making to be sensible and he told me that he sees it all as just another reality show that we have to put up with for the next four years.  We agree that the Dems had better get their shit together and come up with some choices for a candidate that can do some of what the people of America want.  We also agree that nobody in government is really in it for ‘the people’ but all are after power and money.  

I ran went to the credit union, picked up a few groceries, and stopped at my favorite little Assistance League Thrift store.

When I got back home, I learned that my friend Joann passed away yesterday.  She was the first friendly face to welcome me to this apartment complex, introduced me to her circle of friends, and we became good friends.  Joann was a very interesting person who had lots of good (and bad) stories about her life experiences and even a few about previous lives - she firmly believed that she was reincarnated at least twice.  She was also a lover of animals, a contributor to many helpful causes, a staunch Democrat and just a real good person. We got together pretty regularly for a drink or a trip to Willy McCoys with Elaine. She moved to Nebraska last September after getting a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.  I will miss her, as I have since she moved away.

I had a meeting yesterday with a gal at the Senior Center Boutique where I am going to try to sell some of the crafts that I make - mostly so I can continue to make things.  That led to a 4-hour per month volunteer position so my take-home on the sales is 85%.  I dropped off several of the needle felted whirligigs and some gift bags and note pad holders.  We shall see.

When I got home, Joey and I went to Staring Lake park to meet Ben and Yoshi for a walk around the lake.  It was a nice afternoon and always good to hang out with him.

There was big news here at Penelope this week when they fired our Service Coordinator, Maureen, and she was escorted out of the building by the local police.  Dang!  I wonder what the is all about.  And shortly after I heard that news, I learned that the regional director is also leaving after more than 18 years with the company.  Lots of drama around here!

We had a record breaking 52 degree day here on Thursday. Unfortunately, that was my cleaning day at Ben’s but I did take Joey for an early evening walk after some unwinding and relaxing.  Woohoo!  A sign of things to come!

Sunday, January 26, 2025, MN

 It has been a much better week considering my activity level and finally getting over the last cold that I had. Our weather has warmed up a bit and Joey and I have been able to take a few walks other than just quick jaunts around the community grounds.  Poor guy - he now brings a toy over and bugs me to play when he gets bored.  We did manage a haircut this week and he is so good about it. I can finish the job in 1.5 to 2 hours now, but usually have some touch ups to do after I see him off the grooming table.

Our food shelf delivery scheduled for Wednesday was canceled as they didn’t have a truck that would start in this cold weather. It is rescheduled for next Tuesday. I had art class with Genevieve and we made some small clay dishes - my project was a set of salt & pepper bowls. I chose that project because I have been looking at them because I like the coarse ground salt & pepper and the holes in my shakers are too small.  We shall see if I like this method.

I had a very nice conversation with Rene this week and I’m so glad that she is feeling much better, is more active and gaining strength every day. She sent me this cute picture.

Elaine and I went to Willy McCoys for dinner Friday night and it sure felt good to get out, have some conversation, and a good fish fry.  We are both happy to have that nice option in the neighborhood.

Last night, Cathy was going to come over to watch a movie but just before she came, I got a call from Elaine, she was crying and wondering if she could come over and would I mix her a drink. She came right over, I mixed us an Old Fashioned and she told me that she had talked with Joann’s son and learned that she is getting weaker day by day, sleeps much of the day, and is taking lots of morphine for pain. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last summer and given about six months to live.  After that, she decided to move to Nebraska to be with her family.  While we were talking, Cathy joined us and we continued to talk and had another drink. When Elaine was ready to go home, Cathy walked her to her apartment and she didn’t come back and didn’t come back, so when I went check on them, they were giggling and laughing and having a good time. So I mixed us all another drink at Elaine’s apartment and we continued to talk and laugh and have a good time until Joey started to say that he needed to go out for a bedtime potty break.  Dang - 3 old fashioneds and I was able to sleep through the night and feel pretty good this morning. We never did get around to watching a movie.  

Saturday, January 18, 2025, MN

I guess it is the ‘winter of not a darned thing happening’ these days.  We had a two day cold spell last week that kept me inside but there have definitely been a lot more inside days in my world lately.  If there is no reason to go out, I don’t.  We did have a warm up with a few days in the mid-upper 30s this week, but we are headed for another three days of temps near zero but with chill factors way below that.

I have gotten out of the house a few times but mostly for errands.  I did go over to visit Mavis and we had some lunch at Qdoba ( a first for me but not bad for fast food). We had intended to go to this little neighborhood Mexican place that always had such good food but when I drove by there, a big sign on the door said it was under new ownership and under construction.  We still had a nice visit and it was good to see her.  She has been recovering from a knee injury that she got while walking her grand-dog (he cut in front of her and she went down). 

I’ve been spending a lot of time making cards and gift bags.  Now, what am I going to do with all of those? I also started to crochet a baby blanket for my niece, Ali, who is expecting her third child in March.  

It fills my days and I have learned some new techniques for cutting and stamping and inking that keep my brain engaged and learning new things.  

On these cold, cold days Joey and I haven’t been getting very good walks in, so I have taken to bringing the ball along and throwing it down the hallway so he gets some running in.  He will go after it but won’t bring it back to me and usually ends up at the door across the hall from us where Gizmo the cat used to live.  He has gotten really good at retrieving the ball and returning it when we play in the apartment, but that usually involves a few treats.  We’ve also been working on getting him to do the ‘go in a circle’ and he is catching on little by little. Once he gets it, he’s got it but he is stubborn and likes to do things his way.

I cleaned for Cassie and Tommy last week and was asked if I would be interested in letting their puppy, Goose, out every now and then if  Tommy was out of town. I went there this week and took Joey along.  After Goose got over the excitement of being out of the crate, had a drink of water, and pottied in the back yard, I took them for a walk.  Joey was a bully to him and ensured that Goose knew of his dominance, but after that the walk went well.  Goose is a Bernadoodle, a cross between poodle and Bernese Mountain dog and is cute as can be with one blue and one brown eye and two little white spots on his nose.

I’ve come down with another crappy cold over the last few days, feeling crummy on Wednesday but better on Thursday (good thing because it was cleaning at the Bridge’s house day) and then really crappy yesterday.  I stayed at Ben’s after cleaning, so I could take Norah and Camille to swim practice, as Jill is out of town and Ben was still working.  It was a really long day, but I made it.  When I got home and was taking things out of the car, I realized that one of the girls left their swim bag in the car and I would have to get that back to them as they had a meet on Friday. Ben met me at Staring Lake and we made the switch. 

I was rudely awakened at 4:20 this morning when the fire alarms went off in every apartment.  That is the big deal alarm that means ‘get out’, although that is real confusing as we have had alarm issues ever since lightening struck the building two years ago. Nobody knows what they are supposed to do and folks on my floor were all confused. I keep a bag of stuff packed for those situations (change of clothes, prescriptions, dog food), grabbed it and got some clothes on and got outdoors, thinking I could sit in my car with the heat on but realized I had grabbed only the apartment keys and not the car keys. I also realized that I need to get some different  items in that bag so it is more useful if the time should come to ‘get out’ again.  A project for later today.  

Sunday, January 5, 2024, MN

 Darn - over a week since I last posted an update.  I guess that means that there hasn't been a lot going on in my world these days.  The weather has changed from warmish, foggy days to cold and sunny days.  It was 0 when I took Joey out this morning and it’s a real challenge for him to get through his morning routine.  Yesterday we had to come inside to warm up and then make another trip out so he could take care of business. We have only gone for our 1-mile walk once this week but it looks like there are some 20s in the forecast and we can sure walk then.

New Year’s Eve was fun with Cathy and Elaine. I fixed steak and lobster and Cathy brought salad and twice baked potatoes and Elaine brought some good Prosecco wine. We talked and talked and had lots of laughs until about 10:15 and they went home and I got ready for bed.  I knew it was midnight when I awoke to several text messages and fireworks going off.  Happy New Year!

I got in one walk around Staring Lake with Ben and that is always such a good time to have one on one time with him.  We both had errands to run after so didn’t stop for a coffee this time.

How to stay busy on these cold, cold days?  Well, I’ve been making cards and needle felting.  I found a good deal on some pretty blue wool on marketplace so took a drive to Cottage Grove one day to pick it up.  I’ve been trying some different techniques on card making so it has been fun.

I had lunch with Mavis on Friday and it was nice to see her again.  She is recovering from knee surgery so isn’t getting around real good but was happy to get out and about.  We had planned to go to Morelos, this great little Mexican restaurant, but since I was early, I drove by there to make sure they were open and learned that it was closed for remodeling and under new ownership.  Dang - their food was delicious!

I learned yesterday that my sister Rene is in the hospital with pneumonia and I pray that she is strong enough to overcome it.  She is about 90 pounds and still a smoker and drinker, so it will have to be determination and good medicine that gets her through.  I guess she and Mike have been ill for a while but they haven’t reached out for any help.

The girls had a swim meet yesterday, each competing in at least four events and they all improved their previous times on every event.  I was going to go (groan!) but when Ben texted to say that it was standing room only, I decided to stay home and watch the live stream.  I don’t need to be packed into a crowded room these days with all of the crud going around - flu, Covid, colds, respiratory illnesses, etc.  Besides that, I really didn’t feel like going out in the cold.