You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130

After an off day yesterday, Den is much improved today. Part of his problem is that he is not eating very well. He ate a light breakfast, passed on his lunch, ate some dinner, and then dove into a half-pint of Ben & Jerry's which Rose and Shirley brought him this evening.

Den's physician thinks the problem he is having of late has to do with his inability to metabolize some of his meds so the doctor has changed the meds. Den is better, enough so that today he has physical therapy, could get around with minimal help, and is in much better spirits. He is a bit of a Jekel and Hyde, and his Jekel is more in ascendency these days. Of course, Hyde is still a reality and very difficult to deal with. Both made their appearances today.

Den's mother, Evelyn, is very concerned about her eldest son. I can relate because if one of my sons were ill, I would be fretting day and night. Evelyn called today while I was out and talked with Rose. The two of them had a very good conversation. They both agree that a full understanding of Den's condition is good for everyone to have--especially his mama. Evelyn, it turns out, had spend several weeks in the St. Mary's Rehab facility so knew a good deal about it. She's quite a spunky gal, gets out a lot, is active in her church, does volunteer work, and generally enjoys life. She is a good example for all of us.

Shirley and I did some power shopping this morning, then Rose and Shirley power shopped this afternoon and evening while I spent time with Den. Rose, Shirley, and I just finished a late dinner and are now sorting and figuring on all the gifts we bought.

We had a really hilarious e-mail from Brother Joe today. However, if you have not been a member of this family for over 50 years, there is no way you could appreciate the humor. Rose and I had a great laugh together. White writing paper? Red tissue paper? Let's just say, Brother Joe NEVER forgets ANYTHING!

All you Dear Readers and friends of Dear Readers who might be in need of an automobile, please remember the Pontiac. See the entry from December 9 for particulars.