Brayden and ScottShirley and Ellie
Joe
Brayden and Scott
Shirley and Ellie
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
There is so much news that we just can't keep up.
The big Bernie and Maudie 55th wedding anniversary celebration is this Saturday in Spokane. Sue and I are flying out Friday late afternoon, and Pete will pick us up at the airport. He arrives there that afternoon. We are still thinking Joe will drive to St. Louis and fly with Sue and me for the event.
Joe was through St. Louis yesterday, returning from the Big Guys' Fishing Trip in Florida this past weekend. I called for him at the airport then the two of us stopped for breakfast. From his account, and from Pete's by phone this morning, it was a good, good trip. [To us Old Ladies, that would mean they caught few fish, but they catch only big fish. Pete caught a really big one, somewhere between 12 and 30 pounds and growing.] Den always said that all fishermen aren't necessarily liars, but a lot of liars fish.
Other big news:
Clint, grandson of Bob, son of Kathey, is a new father. Baby's name is Fain James Johnson, born 8/28/06 at 11:24 am, weighing in at 7 lbs 6 oz.
Leslie's son Jeff is in a Stryker Unit in Baghdad. Leslie is able to instant message with him almost daily and feels reassured when she hears from him regularly. Baghdad is not exactly a popular assignment these days.
This weekend at the Lake Sue hosted John and Jana with six-month-old Ellie; Jana's sister Tricia and her friend Walter. John and Jana live in Ballwin and Tricia and Walter are students at Kansas State. [Jana and Tricia are Brother Bob's granddaughters.] These young people love the wave runner. The weather was perfect, just as you would expect for Fall. Trees turning, colors bright, that wondrous luminous October light, and the continuing daily changing. It is a great time to be there, almost as fine as those long summer days.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Shirley had her rotator cuff surgery on Tuesday, September 19. The surgeon discovered that the tear was worse than expected, and he found two tendons which were damaged. As a result, Shirley's post-surgery recovery has been extremely painful and miserable. She had a good talk with Janet and was reassured about all the bruising, swelling, and pain she is enduring. It is NORMAL???? Her first physical therapy session was Thursday, and she will have two sessions per week for a while, the next one tomorrow. Her black and blue condition extends over most of the upper right side of her torso and has spread, something Janet experienced too. Shirley has a lot of sympathy for what Janet went through, and Janet's surgery required muscle repair and days in hospital.
Shirley has called upon Mark Goldman, who now rents the Oakland House, during recent days to come move a reclining chair for her. He first brought it up from the basement office to the first floor. A few days later she had him come move it to the second floor bedroom. Thank goodness for Mark! This one chair is the only place Shirley has been able to sleep or rest since last Tuesday. For those of you who know Mark, he has moved a lot of stuff for Rose and Shirley in the past, including his favorite--their concrete garden bench. The first time he tried to lift the top slab, he said, "What in hell is this??" And Mark seldom swears.
Donald and Vita's daughters, Julie and Jennier, own a restaurant/catering business in Plattsburg, MO. Here is the link to their website: http://www.cateringbyjjs.com/ We hope sometime this winter to make a trip to Plattsburg to see the girls, their families, and their business. Jennifer, as a child, always wanted to be Florence Jean Castleberry, a character on the TV show "Alice." She wrote me in a recent e-mail that she still does.
My son, Chris, for most of his life a 'couch potato,' ran a half-marathon last Sunday. His time was 2:17, most respectable for his first long race. He looks like the athlete he has become in these photos: http://www.backprint.com/go.asp?13634221 Click on this link to see by "Baby Boy." Needless to say, I am extremely proud of his achievement.
Chris has also given Maddog and me untold hours of computer help by phone. Maddog and I are such novices, and Chris, the expert, is very patient and NEVER puts us down because we are sooooo dumb about this stuff. My new computer has almost hit the lake several times. [I have no idea why they call it 'high speed.']
I came to St. Louis on Friday, September 15, to attend the St. Louis Jung Society Analysts' Panel Discussion that evening. Of course, Rose and Shirley gave the best of the four talks, and I'm not prejudiced, at least not much. I returned to the lake on Saturday to be with my weekend guests, Leslie and Sam, and Liz and Dave. Leslie was my neighbor in Springfield, and Liz is someone I worked with at GMAC. Sam brought a load of firewood for this winter. Sam is that "King Boy" whose relatives both Joe and Pete remember, hence Sam's nickname. In fact Pete told Leslie that he used to run Hugh King's hounddogs over by the James River, for which Hugh King paid him $.50. I'm not sure of the relationship between this man and Sam, father, grandfather, uncle?
More later. We are out of time right now.
Shirley has called upon Mark Goldman, who now rents the Oakland House, during recent days to come move a reclining chair for her. He first brought it up from the basement office to the first floor. A few days later she had him come move it to the second floor bedroom. Thank goodness for Mark! This one chair is the only place Shirley has been able to sleep or rest since last Tuesday. For those of you who know Mark, he has moved a lot of stuff for Rose and Shirley in the past, including his favorite--their concrete garden bench. The first time he tried to lift the top slab, he said, "What in hell is this??" And Mark seldom swears.
Donald and Vita's daughters, Julie and Jennier, own a restaurant/catering business in Plattsburg, MO. Here is the link to their website: http://www.cateringbyjjs.com/ We hope sometime this winter to make a trip to Plattsburg to see the girls, their families, and their business. Jennifer, as a child, always wanted to be Florence Jean Castleberry, a character on the TV show "Alice." She wrote me in a recent e-mail that she still does.
My son, Chris, for most of his life a 'couch potato,' ran a half-marathon last Sunday. His time was 2:17, most respectable for his first long race. He looks like the athlete he has become in these photos: http://www.backprint.com/go.asp?13634221 Click on this link to see by "Baby Boy." Needless to say, I am extremely proud of his achievement.
Chris has also given Maddog and me untold hours of computer help by phone. Maddog and I are such novices, and Chris, the expert, is very patient and NEVER puts us down because we are sooooo dumb about this stuff. My new computer has almost hit the lake several times. [I have no idea why they call it 'high speed.']
I came to St. Louis on Friday, September 15, to attend the St. Louis Jung Society Analysts' Panel Discussion that evening. Of course, Rose and Shirley gave the best of the four talks, and I'm not prejudiced, at least not much. I returned to the lake on Saturday to be with my weekend guests, Leslie and Sam, and Liz and Dave. Leslie was my neighbor in Springfield, and Liz is someone I worked with at GMAC. Sam brought a load of firewood for this winter. Sam is that "King Boy" whose relatives both Joe and Pete remember, hence Sam's nickname. In fact Pete told Leslie that he used to run Hugh King's hounddogs over by the James River, for which Hugh King paid him $.50. I'm not sure of the relationship between this man and Sam, father, grandfather, uncle?
More later. We are out of time right now.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Labor Day company - Suzanne, Doug, Josie,lucas, Goldman, Maddog, Mike Lynch, Derrington, Stacy, Riley, Eric Julie and boys, and Scott and his boys. Eric and Julie are interested in the house next door. It is a smart time of year to be buying a house in this area.
Scott went to Steely Dan concert Labor Day night and Shirley, Rose, and I got to keep the Brayden and Jalen.
Abbotts have been camping for weeks and only come home for laundry and grass mowing. [Probably tomatoes out of their garden if Sabrina hasn't beat them to it.]
Joe and his dog, Pepper, came for lunch one day. He didn't have pete's credit card so we had to eat in.
Sweat shhirt weather arrived this morning.
When something isn't quite right with the computer, Maddog accuses me of right-clicking.
Rose is in chicago. Shirley came back yestrerday. Goldman picked her up at the airport. Je was concerned about she would think of his car. Goldman left his car at Rose and Shirley's for a few days, and Rose caught a dog trying to hump it.
Jana and John took baby Ellie back to Kansas over Labor Day for christening. Cindy spent most of the weekend holding Ellie.
Sunday was grandparents day. I didn't hear from my grandchildren. Guess they forgot, or like me had never heard of grandparents day until today.
Joe sent us an obituary notice for Eddie LaFoe, who lived in El Paso. He died in July. When someone of us, probably Chris, figures out how, we'll post it on the Blog. Eddie LaFoe was the son of our paternal grandmother's brother. Eddie LaFoe's brother was the brother of Harry LaFoe who is Harriet LaFoe Natale's father. [Joe, let me know if I got this right, please.]
Scott went to Steely Dan concert Labor Day night and Shirley, Rose, and I got to keep the Brayden and Jalen.
Abbotts have been camping for weeks and only come home for laundry and grass mowing. [Probably tomatoes out of their garden if Sabrina hasn't beat them to it.]
Joe and his dog, Pepper, came for lunch one day. He didn't have pete's credit card so we had to eat in.
Sweat shhirt weather arrived this morning.
When something isn't quite right with the computer, Maddog accuses me of right-clicking.
Rose is in chicago. Shirley came back yestrerday. Goldman picked her up at the airport. Je was concerned about she would think of his car. Goldman left his car at Rose and Shirley's for a few days, and Rose caught a dog trying to hump it.
Jana and John took baby Ellie back to Kansas over Labor Day for christening. Cindy spent most of the weekend holding Ellie.
Sunday was grandparents day. I didn't hear from my grandchildren. Guess they forgot, or like me had never heard of grandparents day until today.
Joe sent us an obituary notice for Eddie LaFoe, who lived in El Paso. He died in July. When someone of us, probably Chris, figures out how, we'll post it on the Blog. Eddie LaFoe was the son of our paternal grandmother's brother. Eddie LaFoe's brother was the brother of Harry LaFoe who is Harriet LaFoe Natale's father. [Joe, let me know if I got this right, please.]
Monday, August 28, 2006
Hello, it's Rose here with a quick update. Sue sent me this e-mail today, asking that I put this info on the blog:
Debbie, Bob's daughter, her husband, Joe, their daughter Sabrina, three of Bob's great grandchildren, Martesisa, Briana, and Junior; Jana, Bobby's daughter and Bob's granddaughter, her husband John and their Baby Ellie were here for the weekend. All rode the waverunner except Baby Ellie. Ellie did get to go in the swimming pool. The kids are all good swimmers. They were polite, helpful, and very happy to be here. Briana couldn't figure what relation Maddog was. Maddog was his usual wonderful self. It rained both mornings, but cleared uo by noon.
Sue now has high-speed wireless internet service at the Lake, thanks to Chris and Maddog. She is quickly getting up-to-speed in computer-ese but hasn't conquered blogging yet. I think blogging and a digital camera for adding photos should be next.
Shirley and I hosted Chris and Shelly for dinner on Friday. Chris is in training for a half-maraton (13.1 miles)! Chris was planning a ten-mile training run on Saturday. They both look like Greek gods in their fit, sun-tanned selves.
Debbie, Bob's daughter, her husband, Joe, their daughter Sabrina, three of Bob's great grandchildren, Martesisa, Briana, and Junior; Jana, Bobby's daughter and Bob's granddaughter, her husband John and their Baby Ellie were here for the weekend. All rode the waverunner except Baby Ellie. Ellie did get to go in the swimming pool. The kids are all good swimmers. They were polite, helpful, and very happy to be here. Briana couldn't figure what relation Maddog was. Maddog was his usual wonderful self. It rained both mornings, but cleared uo by noon.
Sue now has high-speed wireless internet service at the Lake, thanks to Chris and Maddog. She is quickly getting up-to-speed in computer-ese but hasn't conquered blogging yet. I think blogging and a digital camera for adding photos should be next.
Shirley and I hosted Chris and Shelly for dinner on Friday. Chris is in training for a half-maraton (13.1 miles)! Chris was planning a ten-mile training run on Saturday. They both look like Greek gods in their fit, sun-tanned selves.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Hello from the Lake of the Ozarks. We need more family news from around the country. Please, please, send us more "Greenwood Items." And to our Blog Contributors, please post early and often.
Donald and Vita visited Pete and Janet this month. They went to Yellowstone and other places of interest. Pete and Janet's grandson, Eric, was very taken with Donald and told him he looks like Steve Martin. Janet, unfortunately, had to skip the travels because of her shoulder and back pain.
The Abbotts have been spending a lot of time at their lake lot with Sally and Don and Nancy. I have been at the Lake as much as possible, leaving only for doctor and dentist appointments. I saw my neurologist last week. He continues to be delighted with my progress and calls it nothing short of miracle.
Brother Joe continues his rehab alongside travels with his family. The family took in a show at Branson. I have been urging Joe to come here for a day or longer, but he can't fit it into his schedule yet.
Bernie and Maudie are preparing for their 55th anniversary celebration in October.
Rose is here at the Lake with Maddog and me. We've had a wonderful three days of play and some work. She traded her Lexus for Scott Kanter's pick-up truck for this trip to bring various things of mine from the Oakland House, the most important of which is my exercise cycle.
Shirley was too scheduled to make this trip and has sorely missed being here. She is awaiting word from her 'shoulder' doctor about surgery. That decision will most likely be made in very early September. She is doing intensive physical therapy but has reached a plateau in regaining use of her right arm, and she still has a lot of pain.
This coming weekend is going to be wonderful one here. Jana, John, and Ellie are coming from St. Louis. Debby, Joe, Sabrina, and children are coming from St. John, KS. I am looking forward to their visit.
Weekend before last Liz, Dave, Josh, Tommy, and two of their friends were here. I've known Liz for 27 years. We worked together at GMAC; she still works there although she says it is a far different place today. The four boys are college age and were great house guests. They took up the slack from Maddog who spent the weekend with friends. The trash can never got full, and the boat and waverunner tanks never got empty.
Mark Goldman and Scott Kanter are now settled into the Oakland House. They tell me they have great landlords.
Chris and Shelly's dog Tucker underwent surgery on his leg last Friday. He is doing well but will need lots of care in the coming weeks.
Mark and Drew have been backpacking in Colorado during their annual father-son week. They climbed a 14,000 footer and lived to tell me about it. Mark and Karen are planning a bike trip through the Napa Valley this fall.
Scott took Brayden and Jalen on a camping trip weekend before last, the first since the terrible scare when the tree fell on their tent last year. It didn't sound exactly like roughing it. Scott called to tell me the boys were in the tent with their DVD player and their video games after a day at the nearby waterpark. Not exactly camping like we did when Mark, Scott, and Chris were boys.
Stephanie now has a most interesting Blog: www.from-my-own-little-corner.blogspot.com Clearly Stephanie is someone who thinks deeply about the issues of our day. I recommend you give it a read.
Rose and Chris are putting together a Chris Comedy Sketch and will submit it to the Apple ipod site. We'll let you know more about it when it is available online.
Donald and Vita visited Pete and Janet this month. They went to Yellowstone and other places of interest. Pete and Janet's grandson, Eric, was very taken with Donald and told him he looks like Steve Martin. Janet, unfortunately, had to skip the travels because of her shoulder and back pain.
The Abbotts have been spending a lot of time at their lake lot with Sally and Don and Nancy. I have been at the Lake as much as possible, leaving only for doctor and dentist appointments. I saw my neurologist last week. He continues to be delighted with my progress and calls it nothing short of miracle.
Brother Joe continues his rehab alongside travels with his family. The family took in a show at Branson. I have been urging Joe to come here for a day or longer, but he can't fit it into his schedule yet.
Bernie and Maudie are preparing for their 55th anniversary celebration in October.
Rose is here at the Lake with Maddog and me. We've had a wonderful three days of play and some work. She traded her Lexus for Scott Kanter's pick-up truck for this trip to bring various things of mine from the Oakland House, the most important of which is my exercise cycle.
Shirley was too scheduled to make this trip and has sorely missed being here. She is awaiting word from her 'shoulder' doctor about surgery. That decision will most likely be made in very early September. She is doing intensive physical therapy but has reached a plateau in regaining use of her right arm, and she still has a lot of pain.
This coming weekend is going to be wonderful one here. Jana, John, and Ellie are coming from St. Louis. Debby, Joe, Sabrina, and children are coming from St. John, KS. I am looking forward to their visit.
Weekend before last Liz, Dave, Josh, Tommy, and two of their friends were here. I've known Liz for 27 years. We worked together at GMAC; she still works there although she says it is a far different place today. The four boys are college age and were great house guests. They took up the slack from Maddog who spent the weekend with friends. The trash can never got full, and the boat and waverunner tanks never got empty.
Mark Goldman and Scott Kanter are now settled into the Oakland House. They tell me they have great landlords.
Chris and Shelly's dog Tucker underwent surgery on his leg last Friday. He is doing well but will need lots of care in the coming weeks.
Mark and Drew have been backpacking in Colorado during their annual father-son week. They climbed a 14,000 footer and lived to tell me about it. Mark and Karen are planning a bike trip through the Napa Valley this fall.
Scott took Brayden and Jalen on a camping trip weekend before last, the first since the terrible scare when the tree fell on their tent last year. It didn't sound exactly like roughing it. Scott called to tell me the boys were in the tent with their DVD player and their video games after a day at the nearby waterpark. Not exactly camping like we did when Mark, Scott, and Chris were boys.
Stephanie now has a most interesting Blog: www.from-my-own-little-corner.blogspot.com Clearly Stephanie is someone who thinks deeply about the issues of our day. I recommend you give it a read.
Rose and Chris are putting together a Chris Comedy Sketch and will submit it to the Apple ipod site. We'll let you know more about it when it is available online.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Hello, Rose and Sue here with a quick update. We have had an extremely busy summer, and that is our excuse for not posting more family news. To keep things simple, we will use the third person below in describing recent events.
Sue has been spending as much time as possible at the Lake of the Ozarks. Her helper and companion is Chris (Maddog) Lynch. She also has a nurse come in every other day to help out. She has had tons of company, too numerous to mention but all very enjoyable. Turns out Mark Goldman is an excellent cook as is Maddog, Shelly (we've described her culinary abilities before), Chris, Scott (for breakfast) and others that right now escape our memories. There has been a lots of boat and wave runner riding, lots of children, swimming, a great 4th of July fireworks celebration (thanks to Doug Hollensbe and others). And the summer is not over. Jana and John with Baby Ellie are coming next weekend. John is now working at Hussman and sees Sabrina occasionally. Sue was delighted to have them work out arrangements that Sabrina, Dave, Alex, and Bret to come to the lake next weekend also.
Rose and Shirley are trying to arrange their schedules to come next week for a few days. The annual Labor Day bash is coming up. That, too, will be a grand gathering.
Sue has officially moved out of the Oakland House, and her residence now (when she is not at her lake house) is with Rose and Shirley. The three of of us make a genial bunch and enjoy a lot of the same activities--especially baseball. Chris and Shelly, who own the Oakland house, have rented it now to Mark Goldman and Scott Kantor so it is still in the family. Mark is a teacher at the school which is less than a block away.
Sue has been spending as much time as possible at the Lake of the Ozarks. Her helper and companion is Chris (Maddog) Lynch. She also has a nurse come in every other day to help out. She has had tons of company, too numerous to mention but all very enjoyable. Turns out Mark Goldman is an excellent cook as is Maddog, Shelly (we've described her culinary abilities before), Chris, Scott (for breakfast) and others that right now escape our memories. There has been a lots of boat and wave runner riding, lots of children, swimming, a great 4th of July fireworks celebration (thanks to Doug Hollensbe and others). And the summer is not over. Jana and John with Baby Ellie are coming next weekend. John is now working at Hussman and sees Sabrina occasionally. Sue was delighted to have them work out arrangements that Sabrina, Dave, Alex, and Bret to come to the lake next weekend also.
Rose and Shirley are trying to arrange their schedules to come next week for a few days. The annual Labor Day bash is coming up. That, too, will be a grand gathering.
Sue has officially moved out of the Oakland House, and her residence now (when she is not at her lake house) is with Rose and Shirley. The three of of us make a genial bunch and enjoy a lot of the same activities--especially baseball. Chris and Shelly, who own the Oakland house, have rented it now to Mark Goldman and Scott Kantor so it is still in the family. Mark is a teacher at the school which is less than a block away.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Hello, it's Rose here with a quick update. This has been one hellish week! We had terrible storms in St. Louis last Wednesday, and they knocked out our power (and about 500,000 others' power) until Monday morning this week. Sue, Shirley, and I toughed it out here until Friday late afternoon when we left for Sue's house at the Lake. Chris, bless his heart, came by Thursday and took all our frozen food to keep in their freezer for us. As a result, we didn't lose a lot. Once at the lake, we just forgot it all and had a wonderful time. One special pleasure was having the opportunity to know Maddog. He is a sweetheart! Shirley and I came home Monday evening. Sue stayed and will remain at the Lake through Kids' Week next week.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Here is a tally of senate votes yesterday for and against the expansion of stem cell research. It passed with unusual bipartisan support.
Roll Call Vote No. 206 Tally
Yea : 63 Members
Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)Ted Stevens (R-AK)Blanche Lincoln (D-AR)Mark Pryor (D-AR)John McCain (R-AZ)Barbara Boxer (D-CA)Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)Ken Salazar (D-CO)Christopher Dodd (D-CT)Joseph Lieberman (D-CT)Joseph Biden (D-DE)Thomas Carper (D-DE)Bill Nelson (D-FL)Daniel Akaka (D-HI)Daniel Inouye (D-HI)Tom Harkin (D-IA)Richard Durbin (D-IL)Barack Obama (D-IL)Evan Bayh (D-IN)Richard Lugar (R-IN)Mary Landrieu (D-LA)Edward Kennedy (D-MA)John Kerry (D-MA)Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)Paul Sarbanes (D-MD)Susan Collins (R-ME)Olympia Snowe (R-ME)Carl Levin (D-MI)Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)Mark Dayton (D-MN)Thad Cochran (R-MS)Trent Lott (R-MS)
Max Baucus (D-MT)Richard Burr (R-NC)Kent Conrad (D-ND)Byron Dorgan (D-ND)Judd Gregg (R-NH)Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ)Robert Menendez (D-NJ)Jeff Bingaman (D-NM)Harry Reid (D-NV)Hillary Clinton (D-NY)Charles Schumer (D-NY)Gordon Smith (R-OR)Ron Wyden (D-OR)Arlen Specter (R-PA)Lincoln Chafee (R-RI)Jack Reed (D-RI)Tim Johnson (D-SD)Lamar Alexander (R-TN)Bill Frist (R-TN)Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX)Robert Bennett (R-UT)Orrin Hatch (R-UT)John Warner (R-VA)James Jeffords (I-VT)Patrick Leahy (D-VT)Maria Cantwell (D-WA)Patty Murray (D-WA)Russ Feingold (D-WI)Herbert Kohl (D-WI)Robert Byrd (D-WV)John Rockefeller (D-WV)
Nay : 37 Members
Jeff Sessions (R-AL)Richard Shelby (R-AL)Jon Kyl (R-AZ)Wayne Allard (R-CO)Mel Martinez (R-FL)Saxby Chambliss (R-GA)Johnny Isakson (R-GA)Charles Grassley (R-IA)Larry Craig (R-ID)Mike Crapo (R-ID)Sam Brownback (R-KS)Pat Roberts (R-KS)Jim Bunning (R-KY)Mitch McConnell (R-KY)David Vitter (R-LA)Norm Coleman (R-MN)Christopher Bond (R-MO)Jim Talent (R-MO)Conrad Burns (R-MT)
Elizabeth Dole (R-NC)Chuck Hagel (R-NE)Ben Nelson (D-NE)John Sununu (R-NH)Pete Domenici (R-NM)John Ensign (R-NV)Mike DeWine (R-OH)George Voinovich (R-OH)Tom Coburn (R-OK)James Inhofe (R-OK)Rick Santorum (R-PA)Jim DeMint (R-SC)Lindsey Graham (R-SC)John Thune (R-SD)John Cornyn (R-TX)George Allen (R-VA)Michael Enzi (R-WY)Craig Thomas (R-WY)
Roll Call Vote No. 206 Tally
Yea : 63 Members
Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)Ted Stevens (R-AK)Blanche Lincoln (D-AR)Mark Pryor (D-AR)John McCain (R-AZ)Barbara Boxer (D-CA)Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)Ken Salazar (D-CO)Christopher Dodd (D-CT)Joseph Lieberman (D-CT)Joseph Biden (D-DE)Thomas Carper (D-DE)Bill Nelson (D-FL)Daniel Akaka (D-HI)Daniel Inouye (D-HI)Tom Harkin (D-IA)Richard Durbin (D-IL)Barack Obama (D-IL)Evan Bayh (D-IN)Richard Lugar (R-IN)Mary Landrieu (D-LA)Edward Kennedy (D-MA)John Kerry (D-MA)Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)Paul Sarbanes (D-MD)Susan Collins (R-ME)Olympia Snowe (R-ME)Carl Levin (D-MI)Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)Mark Dayton (D-MN)Thad Cochran (R-MS)Trent Lott (R-MS)
Max Baucus (D-MT)Richard Burr (R-NC)Kent Conrad (D-ND)Byron Dorgan (D-ND)Judd Gregg (R-NH)Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ)Robert Menendez (D-NJ)Jeff Bingaman (D-NM)Harry Reid (D-NV)Hillary Clinton (D-NY)Charles Schumer (D-NY)Gordon Smith (R-OR)Ron Wyden (D-OR)Arlen Specter (R-PA)Lincoln Chafee (R-RI)Jack Reed (D-RI)Tim Johnson (D-SD)Lamar Alexander (R-TN)Bill Frist (R-TN)Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX)Robert Bennett (R-UT)Orrin Hatch (R-UT)John Warner (R-VA)James Jeffords (I-VT)Patrick Leahy (D-VT)Maria Cantwell (D-WA)Patty Murray (D-WA)Russ Feingold (D-WI)Herbert Kohl (D-WI)Robert Byrd (D-WV)John Rockefeller (D-WV)
Nay : 37 Members
Jeff Sessions (R-AL)Richard Shelby (R-AL)Jon Kyl (R-AZ)Wayne Allard (R-CO)Mel Martinez (R-FL)Saxby Chambliss (R-GA)Johnny Isakson (R-GA)Charles Grassley (R-IA)Larry Craig (R-ID)Mike Crapo (R-ID)Sam Brownback (R-KS)Pat Roberts (R-KS)Jim Bunning (R-KY)Mitch McConnell (R-KY)David Vitter (R-LA)Norm Coleman (R-MN)Christopher Bond (R-MO)Jim Talent (R-MO)Conrad Burns (R-MT)
Elizabeth Dole (R-NC)Chuck Hagel (R-NE)Ben Nelson (D-NE)John Sununu (R-NH)Pete Domenici (R-NM)John Ensign (R-NV)Mike DeWine (R-OH)George Voinovich (R-OH)Tom Coburn (R-OK)James Inhofe (R-OK)Rick Santorum (R-PA)Jim DeMint (R-SC)Lindsey Graham (R-SC)John Thune (R-SD)John Cornyn (R-TX)George Allen (R-VA)Michael Enzi (R-WY)Craig Thomas (R-WY)
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Hi, it's Sue here with a quick update. I am in St. Louis, having returned from the Lake on Sunday. Maddog and I have been spending as much time at the lake as we can, having lots of guests. Dave Smith and his two sons, Alex and Brett, with two of their friends came last week for three days. Then on Friday the Cullinanes and Suzanne and children and a friend from Washington, D.C. came for the weekend. The weather has been hotter than blue blazes (if you get my drift) so being on the water has been heavenly.
One of the joys of the lake continues to be my wonderful neighbors. Dave and Judy Meisel have been extremely thoughtful and helpful. Maddog has been working for another neighbor, Jack Maher, and hopes to get more jobs locally.
Scott, Sherry, Chris, and Shelly and various of their friends made their 15th annual float trip wiffle ball trip/tournament this past weekend on the Gasconade River. The tournament winners this year were Mark Goldman and Mike Lynch, Maddog's brother. All were tired and hot and sunburned and happy to get home.
Chris and Shelly are headed to Florida this weekend for their 5th anniversary celebration.
Margaret and Norm have spent a lot of time recently at their lake lot. Catrina, Robbie and children joined them part of the time as did Sally and family.
We hear from Pete and Joe regularly. Joe continues to work on family history, and we'll add his information as he provides it. Janet is canning stuff from the garden, like Swiss chard, whatever that is. If it is anything like Janet's pickles, we want some.
Bernie called on Saturday. Various of his and Maudie's offspring were in and out, gathering for a boating outing that weekend. Bernie is doing well and sounded really good.
This month I will be completely vacating the Oakland house. Chris and Shelly have rented it to Mark Goldman and his roommate, Scott Cantor. Mark has been really good with helping me sort and get things moved. For the final push next week, I have Candace and Maddog lined up.
Beginning July 29, we will have our 20-something annual Kids' Week at the Lake, even those the kids are all grown up now. Leslie Heilman-King is going to come for a few days to keep me company in among all the younger people. Rose and Shirley are looking forward to keeping Jalen and Brayden for a few days while their dad is at the lake.
One of the joys of the lake continues to be my wonderful neighbors. Dave and Judy Meisel have been extremely thoughtful and helpful. Maddog has been working for another neighbor, Jack Maher, and hopes to get more jobs locally.
Scott, Sherry, Chris, and Shelly and various of their friends made their 15th annual float trip wiffle ball trip/tournament this past weekend on the Gasconade River. The tournament winners this year were Mark Goldman and Mike Lynch, Maddog's brother. All were tired and hot and sunburned and happy to get home.
Chris and Shelly are headed to Florida this weekend for their 5th anniversary celebration.
Margaret and Norm have spent a lot of time recently at their lake lot. Catrina, Robbie and children joined them part of the time as did Sally and family.
We hear from Pete and Joe regularly. Joe continues to work on family history, and we'll add his information as he provides it. Janet is canning stuff from the garden, like Swiss chard, whatever that is. If it is anything like Janet's pickles, we want some.
Bernie called on Saturday. Various of his and Maudie's offspring were in and out, gathering for a boating outing that weekend. Bernie is doing well and sounded really good.
This month I will be completely vacating the Oakland house. Chris and Shelly have rented it to Mark Goldman and his roommate, Scott Cantor. Mark has been really good with helping me sort and get things moved. For the final push next week, I have Candace and Maddog lined up.
Beginning July 29, we will have our 20-something annual Kids' Week at the Lake, even those the kids are all grown up now. Leslie Heilman-King is going to come for a few days to keep me company in among all the younger people. Rose and Shirley are looking forward to keeping Jalen and Brayden for a few days while their dad is at the lake.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Next week the U.S. Senate will debate and vote on a bill to expand stem cell research. This research has been hampered by a very narrow view, fostered mainly by a small far-right segment of the population who wish to 'protect human life.' These people worry that the research would use embryo cells. What they fail to say is that tens of thousands of these cells now are kept in a frozen state and are periodically discarded. Far better that they be put to the use of reducing suffering and curing disease. There is an excellent article in today's WASHINGTON POST if you wish to read more about the promise, the science, and the politics of the issue. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/14/AR2006071401380.html I URGE YOU TO WRITE OR CALL YOUR U.S. SENATORS TO LET THEM KNOW THIS BILL WILL AFFECT DIRECTLY MEMBERS OF OUR FAMILY.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
We've had a new suggestion for a new blog name--THE TURNBOW TIMES. It does have a fine ring to it. Before we change the name again, I am inviting anyone to weigh in with suggestions. When we solve some computer problems we've had of late, we'll post more photos. Meanwhile, any of you who have family reunion or other photos, forward them to me at roseholt.@aolcom or to Sue at MarthaBoaz@aol.com, and we'll eventually get them posted.
We've had a new suggestion for a new blog name--THE TURNBOW TIMES. It does have a fine ring to it. Before we change the name again, I am inviting anyone to weigh in with suggestions. When we solve some computer problems we've had of late, we'll post more photos. Meanwhile, any of you who have family reunion or other photos, forward them to me at roseholt.@aolcom or to Sue at MarthaBoaz@aol.com, and we'll eventually get them posted.
Monday, July 03, 2006
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Sue and I started this blog over two years ago as a way of keeping family and friends informed about Sue's serious (then serious) health problems. We titled the blog "Sue's Journey to Health," not knowing just where the journey might lead but filled with hope in the face of some dire circumstances. Sue has indeed journeyed back to health although not completely to wholeness. [Her recent problem, low sodium that caused flu-like symptoms, has been tied to her medication. With a change to a new drug, her sodium levels have returned to normal and she to feeling quite well again.]
Although healthy now, Sue's strange illness left her with limited use of her hands. Stem-cell research shows increasing promise for exactly this kind of an affliction, but it may be some time before the research delivers effective treatment. We personally know many people who suffer from ailments for which stem cell research holds great hope. Please join in the effort to change the political climate to free up monies for this valuable endeavor. We like to remember that once money started flowing into research for AIDS, it was a very short few years until AIDS became an illness one could live with rather than a death sentence.
All that said, we are changing the title of this blog to reflect more what it has become--a central place for posting information about far-flung family members. Right now we have five contributing editors, Sue, myself, Christopher (Sue's son), Catrina (Margaret and Norman's daughter), and most recently Stephanie (also Margaret and Norman's daughter). We would welcome more contributors, so if any Dear Reader wants to become a spokesperson and news channel for a branch of the family, just let us know. Any reader is invited to add comments by clicking on the "comment" icon. As always, we will post e-mails and photos that anyone wants to send us. We get valuable information that way, for example, Elaine's input about the early photo we posted where we had wrongly identified some of the people. [Brother Joe tells me he has found some parts of the 'Family Quiz' that need clarification and is preparing input on that.]
Stephanie tells me that she and Shelly are organizing photos and information gathered at the recent family reunion. They will be posting some of that material here.
Although healthy now, Sue's strange illness left her with limited use of her hands. Stem-cell research shows increasing promise for exactly this kind of an affliction, but it may be some time before the research delivers effective treatment. We personally know many people who suffer from ailments for which stem cell research holds great hope. Please join in the effort to change the political climate to free up monies for this valuable endeavor. We like to remember that once money started flowing into research for AIDS, it was a very short few years until AIDS became an illness one could live with rather than a death sentence.
All that said, we are changing the title of this blog to reflect more what it has become--a central place for posting information about far-flung family members. Right now we have five contributing editors, Sue, myself, Christopher (Sue's son), Catrina (Margaret and Norman's daughter), and most recently Stephanie (also Margaret and Norman's daughter). We would welcome more contributors, so if any Dear Reader wants to become a spokesperson and news channel for a branch of the family, just let us know. Any reader is invited to add comments by clicking on the "comment" icon. As always, we will post e-mails and photos that anyone wants to send us. We get valuable information that way, for example, Elaine's input about the early photo we posted where we had wrongly identified some of the people. [Brother Joe tells me he has found some parts of the 'Family Quiz' that need clarification and is preparing input on that.]
Stephanie tells me that she and Shelly are organizing photos and information gathered at the recent family reunion. They will be posting some of that material here.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Sherry (left) and Lizzie (below)
Sue with Brayden and Jalen (left) and Janet (below)
Sam (left)Sue went to the Lake on Thursday afternoon. Her cellphone works only sporadically in that area. The house phone number is 573 365 2106. She is doing well and plans to stay through Girls' Weekend next weekend, returning for various appointments the following week.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
At the urging of Sue's daughter-in-law, Shelly, Sue and I put together a "Family Quiz," which Pete gave when we gathered at Chris and Shelly's on Saturday of our Family Reunion. Jalen helped us add some questions aimed at the younger folk, and those are the questions toward the end of the quiz. Thank you Shelly, Jalen, and Pete!
Here is the quiz, a quick and fun way to acquaint people with some family lore:
Here is the quiz, a quick and fun way to acquaint people with some family lore:
FAMILY QUIZ
JUNE 3, 2006
1. What were the names of Katie LaFoe Felin’s (mother of James, Edward, and Louis Felin] two sisters? [Answer: Mary and Lizzie]
2. Name the offspring of Edward [Bud] and Lois Felin. [Answer: Jamie, twins, Nadine and Pauline]
3. Name the offspring of Louis and Mary Felin. [Answer: Fanny, Bill, Beau]
4. Name the offspring of James [Jim] and Marie Madden Felin. [Answer: Bernie, Bob, Joe, John, Margaret, Rose, Sue, Donald + two unnamed infants, one died within 24 hours of birth and one stillborn]
5. Where were the farms that Giacomo (Jake) Felin (widower of Katie) willed to his three sons? [Near Turnbow Creek, in Webster County, MO]
6. What was the name of the one-room schoolhouse that the Felin children attended near the farms? [Anderson School]
7. What were the businesses of the Felin brothers, James, Edward, and Louis? [Answer: Farming, canning factories for tomatoes, and road construction]
8. What was the scary place between the farms and Anderson School called? [Answer: Bum’s Hollow]
9. What was the most notorious hang-out in Marshfield for men and boys, women not allowed? [Answer: the Pool Hall]
10. How did Marie Madden and future husband Louis Felin meet? [Answer: She was a bookkeeper for his factory in Fair Grove, MO. Her mother (maiden name Stone) also worked in the factory.
11. What were Marie Madden’s siblings names? [Answer: Mildred (Mit), Curtis, and Kenneth (Kent)]
12. What was Harve Madden’s (father of Marie, Mildred, Curtis, and Kenneth) occupation? [Answer: Farmer]
13. Name two unusual facts about Marshfield. [Answers: A. It was the smallest town in America to have a Carnegie Library. (Loyola (Brick) Spreitler, father of Mark, Scott, and Christopher, always said Marshfield had the smallest Carnegie Library in the United States. B. President George H. W. Bush chose Marshfield as the quintessential American town in which to celebrate the Fourth of July in 1991.]
14. What is the county seat of Webster County? [Answer: Marshfield, MO]
15. From what country did Giacomo (Jake) Felin immigrate? [Answer: Austria (from the Tyrol Province, southern Austria)]
16. What was the business of the LaFoe’s in Northview, MO? [Answer: Shopkeeping]
17. Why was Katie Felin (mother of James, Louis, and Edward) institutionalized in the early 1900’s? [Answer: She suffered from post-partum depression, an untreatable condition in that time.]
18. What was the name of the long-term priest at Holy Trinity Church in Marshfield? [Answer: Father Donahue]
19. Who was the best Mass server ever at Holy Trinity? [Answer: John L. (Pete) Felin]
20. Who was the town physician who delivered many of the Felin babies and made housecalls? [Answer: Dr. C. R. MacDonnell]
21. What was the big, big event in Marshfield in 1955? [Answer: The Centennial Celebration]
22. What was Miss Muzzy’s Cafe most known for? [Answer: the amount of old chewing gum stuck under the counter.]
23. Where was Miss Muzzy’s Café located? [Answer: On west side of the Square in Marshfield?]
24. Bess Hosmer, an intimidating, gruff woman who owned an insurance agency near Miss Muzzy’s, had a run-in with Martha Sue Spreitler-Boaz (nee’ Felin) when Sue was eight-years old. What happened? [Answer: Sue was on the street with one of the family mutts when it got into a scrap with Mrs. Hosmer’s pure-bred pride and joy. Mrs. Hosmer demanded to know, “Is your dog vaccinated?” Sue, with equal hostility, responded, “Yes! Is yours?”]
25. What are names of Bernie and Maudie (Larrimore) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Anna, Shirley, Steve, Sandy, Karen Kaye, Doug, Glen, Mike, Tammy, Cindy]
26. What are names of Bob and Betty Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Robert (Bobby), Debby, Sandy, and Kathy]
27. What are names of Joe and Mary (Gann) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Lisa, Beth, and David]
28. What are names of John (Pete) and Janet (Jensen) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Kelly, Nancy, and Merri]
29. What are names of Margaret (Felin) and Norman Abbott’s offspring? [Answer: Stephanie, Sabrina, Randy, and Catrina]
30. What are names of Donald and Vita (Nicastro) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Jennifer and Julie]
31. What are names of Martha Sue (Felin) and Loyola (Brick) Spreitler’s offspring? [Answer: Scott and Christopher (Ding)]
32. What was to be feared at the annual Webster Country Fair? [Answer: “Gypsies” who stole children, meaning there was no money to go.]
33. Sue’s first husband’s name was ___________. Brayden’s middle name is the same, ____________. [Answer: Loyola]
34. Which children had asthma and had to be in the hospital? [Answer: Chris Spreitler and Sam King]
35. Which teenager knows a lot about nature? [Answer: Jacob Schmitt]
36. Which pre-teens play basketball on teams their dad coaches? [Brett and Alex Smith]
37. Which six-year girl was courageous enough to jump off the high diving board at Shaw Park Pool? [Answer: Lizzie King]
38. What two half-brothers in our family are rambunctious and really love each other? [Answer: Jalen and Brayden Spreitler]
39. Which adult in our family is a creative mechanic? [Answer: Nathan Schmitt]
40. Margaret gave her granddaughter a car when she turned 16. Who is that granddaughter? [Answer: Erica Abbott]
41. Which girl in our family is very, very artistic? [Answer: Amanda Abbott]
42. Which boy in our family is a great hockey player? [Answer: Connor Abbott]
JUNE 3, 2006
1. What were the names of Katie LaFoe Felin’s (mother of James, Edward, and Louis Felin] two sisters? [Answer: Mary and Lizzie]
2. Name the offspring of Edward [Bud] and Lois Felin. [Answer: Jamie, twins, Nadine and Pauline]
3. Name the offspring of Louis and Mary Felin. [Answer: Fanny, Bill, Beau]
4. Name the offspring of James [Jim] and Marie Madden Felin. [Answer: Bernie, Bob, Joe, John, Margaret, Rose, Sue, Donald + two unnamed infants, one died within 24 hours of birth and one stillborn]
5. Where were the farms that Giacomo (Jake) Felin (widower of Katie) willed to his three sons? [Near Turnbow Creek, in Webster County, MO]
6. What was the name of the one-room schoolhouse that the Felin children attended near the farms? [Anderson School]
7. What were the businesses of the Felin brothers, James, Edward, and Louis? [Answer: Farming, canning factories for tomatoes, and road construction]
8. What was the scary place between the farms and Anderson School called? [Answer: Bum’s Hollow]
9. What was the most notorious hang-out in Marshfield for men and boys, women not allowed? [Answer: the Pool Hall]
10. How did Marie Madden and future husband Louis Felin meet? [Answer: She was a bookkeeper for his factory in Fair Grove, MO. Her mother (maiden name Stone) also worked in the factory.
11. What were Marie Madden’s siblings names? [Answer: Mildred (Mit), Curtis, and Kenneth (Kent)]
12. What was Harve Madden’s (father of Marie, Mildred, Curtis, and Kenneth) occupation? [Answer: Farmer]
13. Name two unusual facts about Marshfield. [Answers: A. It was the smallest town in America to have a Carnegie Library. (Loyola (Brick) Spreitler, father of Mark, Scott, and Christopher, always said Marshfield had the smallest Carnegie Library in the United States. B. President George H. W. Bush chose Marshfield as the quintessential American town in which to celebrate the Fourth of July in 1991.]
14. What is the county seat of Webster County? [Answer: Marshfield, MO]
15. From what country did Giacomo (Jake) Felin immigrate? [Answer: Austria (from the Tyrol Province, southern Austria)]
16. What was the business of the LaFoe’s in Northview, MO? [Answer: Shopkeeping]
17. Why was Katie Felin (mother of James, Louis, and Edward) institutionalized in the early 1900’s? [Answer: She suffered from post-partum depression, an untreatable condition in that time.]
18. What was the name of the long-term priest at Holy Trinity Church in Marshfield? [Answer: Father Donahue]
19. Who was the best Mass server ever at Holy Trinity? [Answer: John L. (Pete) Felin]
20. Who was the town physician who delivered many of the Felin babies and made housecalls? [Answer: Dr. C. R. MacDonnell]
21. What was the big, big event in Marshfield in 1955? [Answer: The Centennial Celebration]
22. What was Miss Muzzy’s Cafe most known for? [Answer: the amount of old chewing gum stuck under the counter.]
23. Where was Miss Muzzy’s Café located? [Answer: On west side of the Square in Marshfield?]
24. Bess Hosmer, an intimidating, gruff woman who owned an insurance agency near Miss Muzzy’s, had a run-in with Martha Sue Spreitler-Boaz (nee’ Felin) when Sue was eight-years old. What happened? [Answer: Sue was on the street with one of the family mutts when it got into a scrap with Mrs. Hosmer’s pure-bred pride and joy. Mrs. Hosmer demanded to know, “Is your dog vaccinated?” Sue, with equal hostility, responded, “Yes! Is yours?”]
25. What are names of Bernie and Maudie (Larrimore) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Anna, Shirley, Steve, Sandy, Karen Kaye, Doug, Glen, Mike, Tammy, Cindy]
26. What are names of Bob and Betty Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Robert (Bobby), Debby, Sandy, and Kathy]
27. What are names of Joe and Mary (Gann) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Lisa, Beth, and David]
28. What are names of John (Pete) and Janet (Jensen) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Kelly, Nancy, and Merri]
29. What are names of Margaret (Felin) and Norman Abbott’s offspring? [Answer: Stephanie, Sabrina, Randy, and Catrina]
30. What are names of Donald and Vita (Nicastro) Felin’s offspring? [Answer: Jennifer and Julie]
31. What are names of Martha Sue (Felin) and Loyola (Brick) Spreitler’s offspring? [Answer: Scott and Christopher (Ding)]
32. What was to be feared at the annual Webster Country Fair? [Answer: “Gypsies” who stole children, meaning there was no money to go.]
33. Sue’s first husband’s name was ___________. Brayden’s middle name is the same, ____________. [Answer: Loyola]
34. Which children had asthma and had to be in the hospital? [Answer: Chris Spreitler and Sam King]
35. Which teenager knows a lot about nature? [Answer: Jacob Schmitt]
36. Which pre-teens play basketball on teams their dad coaches? [Brett and Alex Smith]
37. Which six-year girl was courageous enough to jump off the high diving board at Shaw Park Pool? [Answer: Lizzie King]
38. What two half-brothers in our family are rambunctious and really love each other? [Answer: Jalen and Brayden Spreitler]
39. Which adult in our family is a creative mechanic? [Answer: Nathan Schmitt]
40. Margaret gave her granddaughter a car when she turned 16. Who is that granddaughter? [Answer: Erica Abbott]
41. Which girl in our family is very, very artistic? [Answer: Amanda Abbott]
42. Which boy in our family is a great hockey player? [Answer: Connor Abbott]
Photos will be posted as time and technical know-how permit. We haven't mastered the art of moving photos from a Walgreen's disk to this Blog just yet.
I am happy to report that Sue was released from the hospital yesterday afternoon. She is home and feeling quite well. [Or as Grandpa Madden would have put it, she is "feeling fine as frog hair."]
Tomorrow she has to go see her primary care physician, Sara Renfert, a new one and someone Sue has developed respect for in a very short time. If her blood test tomorrow shows a good sodium level (good being greater that 130), she will go to the lake tomorrow afternoon.
I am copying an e-mail below from our cousin Elaine so that all our Dear Readers can have news about her and her family:
"Rose –
It was so good to talk to you last week. You don’t sound a day older! Unfortunately, I am not going to be able to make the BIG family shindig, but I hope you will let everyone know that it is with regret that I must pass it up. I did want to pass on my information as you requested and to let you know that I will be looking forward to seeing pics & info on the blog. One other thing I wanted to mention, there is a picture on the blog of your mom, Aunt Mitt and a young boy you identified as either Uncle Curt or Dad. If the picture was made in 1916 as you indicated, then the young man is not Dad or Uncle Curt. Dad wasn’t born until 1920 and Uncle Curt was later than that.
Here’s my information and please let all the family know the door is always open and the Welcome mat out anytime anyone wants to visit.
Elaine Raymond
68 Kimberlys Way
Jasper, GA 30143
678-454-6132
quiltlady@etcmail.com
My husband, Bill, and I have been married 33 years and have 2 children. Our son, Tony, is married to Tara and together they have a daughter, Kayla, 14 months."
Joe Felin called this morning as he was headed to cardiac rehab. He said Bernie and Maudie are in the area (no sighting yet) and would be getting together with him and Aunt Virginia during their stay.
Pete and Janet checked in yesterday. Janet continues to recover from her shoulder surgery. She is still chuckling about my getting so terribly lost in an area I've lived most of my life. What she perhaps doesn't understand is that I have stayed the same; the terrain has changed beyond recognition!
Tomorrow she has to go see her primary care physician, Sara Renfert, a new one and someone Sue has developed respect for in a very short time. If her blood test tomorrow shows a good sodium level (good being greater that 130), she will go to the lake tomorrow afternoon.
I am copying an e-mail below from our cousin Elaine so that all our Dear Readers can have news about her and her family:
"Rose –
It was so good to talk to you last week. You don’t sound a day older! Unfortunately, I am not going to be able to make the BIG family shindig, but I hope you will let everyone know that it is with regret that I must pass it up. I did want to pass on my information as you requested and to let you know that I will be looking forward to seeing pics & info on the blog. One other thing I wanted to mention, there is a picture on the blog of your mom, Aunt Mitt and a young boy you identified as either Uncle Curt or Dad. If the picture was made in 1916 as you indicated, then the young man is not Dad or Uncle Curt. Dad wasn’t born until 1920 and Uncle Curt was later than that.
Here’s my information and please let all the family know the door is always open and the Welcome mat out anytime anyone wants to visit.
Elaine Raymond
68 Kimberlys Way
Jasper, GA 30143
678-454-6132
quiltlady@etcmail.com
My husband, Bill, and I have been married 33 years and have 2 children. Our son, Tony, is married to Tara and together they have a daughter, Kayla, 14 months."
Joe Felin called this morning as he was headed to cardiac rehab. He said Bernie and Maudie are in the area (no sighting yet) and would be getting together with him and Aunt Virginia during their stay.
Pete and Janet checked in yesterday. Janet continues to recover from her shoulder surgery. She is still chuckling about my getting so terribly lost in an area I've lived most of my life. What she perhaps doesn't understand is that I have stayed the same; the terrain has changed beyond recognition!
Monday, June 12, 2006
Friday, June 09, 2006
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
One of the most delightful parts of this past weekend was getting reacquainted with some far-flung relatives, especially nieces and nephews. Sandi and Cindy came from Olympia, WA, and Portland, OR. Debby and her grandchildren, Joshua, Martesia, and Junior came from St. John, KS, as did Debby's sister Sandy and her daughter Cassandra, also from St. John. Part of that same family, Jana, John, and Ellie, now live in Ballwin, MO. And from Louisville, KY, my son Scott, his girlfriend Sherry and his two sons, Jalen and Brayden were here. This was the first time all "Marie's Children" were together since Brother Bob's funeral in August, 2000. The photo that Catrina posted below is one with the seven surviving siblings.
Brother Joe and his daughter Lisa came from Springfield. Bernie and Maudie came from Spokane, WA, and Pete and Janet from Idaho Falls, ID. Donald and Vita came in from Birmingham, AL, for Saturday. They had been in Chicago with three of their grandsons seeing "Sue" the dinosaur and other windy city attractions.
Our cousin Harriet Natale (nee' LaFoe) put Rose in touch with her half-brother Harry LaFoe who lives in Cape Girardeau, MO. Harry and his wife Marian and their son Edward (who lives in Ballwin, MO) came on Saturday to Chris and Shelly's. Harry brought a LaFoe geneology record that was very informative. As best we could tell, all the LaFoe men who aren't named Harry are/were named Edward. Harry and Marian lived for a long time in Monroe, LA, and only moved to Missouri when they retired. They have a second son who lives in Cape Girardeau with his family.
Sandy and Cindy checked in with us today. They were both in Olympia, WA. Pete and Janet called to say they were home in Idaho Falls at 2:00 pm and happy to be there after a long, long drive. Bernie and Maudie are staying on for some days at Cuivre River State Park. Margaret and Norman have joined them, and the four of them are 'roughing' it in their very modern RV's.
One of the plans that evolved over the weekend was to have a get-together next year around the time of Bernie's birthday, June 28, at the Lake of the Ozarks. We'll post more as plans evolve, but please keep the date in mind. We would also like your thoughts and ideas on another gathering.
I am in St. Luke's, having tests and getting some meds adjusted. As Rose wrote earlier, my flu-like symptoms are gone, and I simply want to get out of here. My plan was to go to the Lake on Friday, but as often happens my plans have upended.
Brother Joe and his daughter Lisa came from Springfield. Bernie and Maudie came from Spokane, WA, and Pete and Janet from Idaho Falls, ID. Donald and Vita came in from Birmingham, AL, for Saturday. They had been in Chicago with three of their grandsons seeing "Sue" the dinosaur and other windy city attractions.
Our cousin Harriet Natale (nee' LaFoe) put Rose in touch with her half-brother Harry LaFoe who lives in Cape Girardeau, MO. Harry and his wife Marian and their son Edward (who lives in Ballwin, MO) came on Saturday to Chris and Shelly's. Harry brought a LaFoe geneology record that was very informative. As best we could tell, all the LaFoe men who aren't named Harry are/were named Edward. Harry and Marian lived for a long time in Monroe, LA, and only moved to Missouri when they retired. They have a second son who lives in Cape Girardeau with his family.
Sandy and Cindy checked in with us today. They were both in Olympia, WA. Pete and Janet called to say they were home in Idaho Falls at 2:00 pm and happy to be there after a long, long drive. Bernie and Maudie are staying on for some days at Cuivre River State Park. Margaret and Norman have joined them, and the four of them are 'roughing' it in their very modern RV's.
One of the plans that evolved over the weekend was to have a get-together next year around the time of Bernie's birthday, June 28, at the Lake of the Ozarks. We'll post more as plans evolve, but please keep the date in mind. We would also like your thoughts and ideas on another gathering.
I am in St. Luke's, having tests and getting some meds adjusted. As Rose wrote earlier, my flu-like symptoms are gone, and I simply want to get out of here. My plan was to go to the Lake on Friday, but as often happens my plans have upended.
The Family Reunion over this past weekend [Saturday at the Spreitlers; Sunday at the Schmitts] was a huge success, thanks largely to the tremendous efforts of Chris, Shelly, Stephanie, Dan, Jacob, Nathan, Catrina, and Robbie. There were lots of helper elves that I don't know about but a big "thank you" to them, too.
I see that Catrina has already posted one photo. We have many, many others to post as time permits. And lots of family news to go with them.
Our delay in getting new posts on this Blob is due to another problem. On Monday evening, Sue fell ill. She toughed out the night, but on Tuesday morning we headed to St. Luke's Emergency once again. Same problem: low sodium. After numerous tests (actually retests), the physicians admitted her. She is in room 7705 at St. Luke's Hospital. One happy note out of this is that it is looking more and more like all this recurring illness is a reaction to some meds, and her neurologist is changing the problem pill. By late afternoon yesterday she was 'feeling some better.'
We started this blog over two years ago when Sue was so seriously ill as a way of keeping everyone concerned up-to-date. As Sue's health has continued to improve, the blog has turned into more of a Family Newsletter. When we have time, we'll change the title.
And we'll add a lot of information and photos from the reunion.
I see that Catrina has already posted one photo. We have many, many others to post as time permits. And lots of family news to go with them.
Our delay in getting new posts on this Blob is due to another problem. On Monday evening, Sue fell ill. She toughed out the night, but on Tuesday morning we headed to St. Luke's Emergency once again. Same problem: low sodium. After numerous tests (actually retests), the physicians admitted her. She is in room 7705 at St. Luke's Hospital. One happy note out of this is that it is looking more and more like all this recurring illness is a reaction to some meds, and her neurologist is changing the problem pill. By late afternoon yesterday she was 'feeling some better.'
We started this blog over two years ago when Sue was so seriously ill as a way of keeping everyone concerned up-to-date. As Sue's health has continued to improve, the blog has turned into more of a Family Newsletter. When we have time, we'll change the title.
And we'll add a lot of information and photos from the reunion.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Please note corrected directions to Stephanie and Dan's for Sunday at 1:00 pm!!!
The weather is cooperating. Should be very nice on Saturday and Sunday.
The latest and NEW addition to the weekend is a Friday night dinner for those who can make it at Harry J's, 300 Main Street, Moscow Mills, MO. [Take Hiway 61 north from Hiway 70 to Moscow Mills which is three miles south of Troy. Follow billboards to Harry J's.]
We are asking anyone coming to arrive between 7:00 and 7:30 pm. Harry J's does NOT take reservations so there may be a short wait. This is a last minute add-on. Come if you can but be prepared to be flexible.
The weather is cooperating. Should be very nice on Saturday and Sunday.
The latest and NEW addition to the weekend is a Friday night dinner for those who can make it at Harry J's, 300 Main Street, Moscow Mills, MO. [Take Hiway 61 north from Hiway 70 to Moscow Mills which is three miles south of Troy. Follow billboards to Harry J's.]
We are asking anyone coming to arrive between 7:00 and 7:30 pm. Harry J's does NOT take reservations so there may be a short wait. This is a last minute add-on. Come if you can but be prepared to be flexible.
CORRECTION:
Directions-Dan & Steph Schmitt’s
Pool Party1:00 p.m. – bring your swim suit!
Hwy 70 West to 61 North – go 15 miles.
Hwy 47 – Troy exit – left – go approx.
5 miles To H & J – right go exactly 3 miles to the old barn on the left. Make a left onto Michael Court. It’s the 1st house on the left – ½ mile.Park at the top of the driveway. Golf cart shuttle provided.
Plans are unfolding for the Felin Family Reunion. Bernie and Maudie have arrived at the Cuivre River State Park. Margaret and Norman and our sister-in-law Sally (widow of our Brother bob) have been up there (about 60 miles north of St. Louis) to greet them and to set up Margaret and Norman's RV for other out-of-towners. We expect Pete and Janet at any moment. Sandy and Cindy are coming in around midnight tonight. Joe and some of his family on Saturday. Some of our late brother Bob's family from Kansas will be here on Saturday. And we have been providing other updates all along as time permits.
Our Reunion Hosts, the Spreitlers and the Schmitts, are in a frenzy of preparation for Saturday at the Spreitlers (directions to their home below) and Sunday at the Schmitts (directions to their home here:
Directions-Dan & Steph Schmitt’s Pool Party
1:00 p.m. – bring your swim suit!
Hwy 70 West to 61 North – go 15 miles.
Hwy 47 – Troy exit – left – go approx. 5 miles
To H & G – right go exactly 3 miles to the old barn on the left. Make a left onto Michael Court. It’s the 1st house on the left – ½ mile.
Park at the top of the driveway. Golf cart shuttle provided.
We anticipate lots of connecting and reconnecting of Maddens, Felins, Abbotts, Kings, Moores, Spreitlers, Schmitts, Smiths, LaFoes, and others I cannot recall at the moment.
If you have any questions or want more detailed directions, please call (314) 452-3685 [Sue], or (636) 397-5674 [Margaret], or (314) 726-2032 [Rose].
Our Reunion Hosts, the Spreitlers and the Schmitts, are in a frenzy of preparation for Saturday at the Spreitlers (directions to their home below) and Sunday at the Schmitts (directions to their home here:
Directions-Dan & Steph Schmitt’s Pool Party
1:00 p.m. – bring your swim suit!
Hwy 70 West to 61 North – go 15 miles.
Hwy 47 – Troy exit – left – go approx. 5 miles
To H & G – right go exactly 3 miles to the old barn on the left. Make a left onto Michael Court. It’s the 1st house on the left – ½ mile.
Park at the top of the driveway. Golf cart shuttle provided.
We anticipate lots of connecting and reconnecting of Maddens, Felins, Abbotts, Kings, Moores, Spreitlers, Schmitts, Smiths, LaFoes, and others I cannot recall at the moment.
If you have any questions or want more detailed directions, please call (314) 452-3685 [Sue], or (636) 397-5674 [Margaret], or (314) 726-2032 [Rose].
Monday, May 29, 2006
More news from our far-flung family. Harriet Natale (nee LaFoe) called from Fort Myer, FL, to say she received her invitation but would note be able to attend. Joe had called her some time ago to tell her of the upcoming event. Some of you will remember that Harriet and her late husband came to our last reunion and that Harriet shared with us the geneology research she had done.
During our conversation, Harriet told me she has a half-brother, Harry LaFoe, who lives with his wife, Marian, in Cape Girardeau, MO. They have two sons, William (wife, Tricia) and Edward (wife, Bonnie). William and Tricia live in Cape Girardeau, and Edward and Bonnie live in Ballwin, MO.
My paternal grandfather, Giacomo Felin, married Katie LaFoe. I believe (Brother Joe, please correct me if I'm wrong) Katie had a brother Edward LaFoe who was the father of the first Harry LaFoe. This Harry LaFoe is the one who, with his wife, had a grocery store in Springfield, MO. He was married twice. With his first wife, they had Lorraine, Frieda May, and Harry. With his second wife, they had Harriet, the cousin who called me.
After talking with Harriet, I called Edward (the one who lives in Ballwin) and gave him information about the reunion as well as the address of this weblog. He told me his father had done some research into the family geneology and would be interested in the reunion. So I then called Harry in Cape Girardeau and talked with him. After trying to figure out just how he and I are related, we quickly concluded that our family history is a complicated one!
At any rate, I am hopeful some of these LaFoe connections will join us next Saturday.
During our conversation, Harriet told me she has a half-brother, Harry LaFoe, who lives with his wife, Marian, in Cape Girardeau, MO. They have two sons, William (wife, Tricia) and Edward (wife, Bonnie). William and Tricia live in Cape Girardeau, and Edward and Bonnie live in Ballwin, MO.
My paternal grandfather, Giacomo Felin, married Katie LaFoe. I believe (Brother Joe, please correct me if I'm wrong) Katie had a brother Edward LaFoe who was the father of the first Harry LaFoe. This Harry LaFoe is the one who, with his wife, had a grocery store in Springfield, MO. He was married twice. With his first wife, they had Lorraine, Frieda May, and Harry. With his second wife, they had Harriet, the cousin who called me.
After talking with Harriet, I called Edward (the one who lives in Ballwin) and gave him information about the reunion as well as the address of this weblog. He told me his father had done some research into the family geneology and would be interested in the reunion. So I then called Harry in Cape Girardeau and talked with him. After trying to figure out just how he and I are related, we quickly concluded that our family history is a complicated one!
At any rate, I am hopeful some of these LaFoe connections will join us next Saturday.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
It's Rose here with a quick update. I just had a wonderful conversation with Elaine, our first cousin, daughter of Uncle Kent and Aunt Paula. [Uncle Kent was mother's youngest brother.] Elaine lives near Atlanta and has a grown son and a granddaughter. She may make it to the reunion but isn't sure yet. I assured her that we could find a bed for her if she can get here. Elaine, there are so many questions I neglected to ask while we were on the phone. Would you please click on the 'comments' icon and fill all of us in about your married name, your family, where you live, and any other details you might wish to share. Especially include your e-mail address Also, when your travel plans are set, someone of us will call for you at the airport.
Shelly has provided detailed driving instructions to her and Chris' house. Here they are:
"From 70: either East or West - Take the Hwy 94 Exit, which is the second exit West of the Blanchette Bridge. Head South remaining on 94 until an electrical light at Harvester. Directions continued from asterisks bolded below.
From 270 North to 40 West: Go over MO River Bridge, 1st exit is HWY 94, take a right - continue through several lights to Kisker Road electrical light (Dirt Cheap on right), take a right - go almost 2 miles and take a left on Towers Road. Head another 2 miles (you will past Lakeview Farms - Sampson on left). Our subdivision is the Vineyards on the right Napa Lane - go past the clubhouse and tennis courts - second left - French Oak Lane. Go around the curve - we are 4011- Trailblazer will probably be in the driveway.
{I have found that Page is quicker, since both 40 and 94 are a pain - Your choice}
From 270 North to Page/364 West: Take Page west until the first electrical light - *****Harvester Road, take a left. Go right around the corner to the next light, Caulk's Hill (Walgreens on rt./Shell on lt.) Take a left. Continue a few miles until the first Stop sign - Towers road - Take a right. The second left will be the Vineyards Subdivision - Napa Lane - go past the clubhouse and tennis courts - second left - French Oak Lane. Go around the curve - we are 4011- Trailblazer will probably be in the driveway.
Be prepared for crazy, HUGE puppy to greet you!!!!
REMEMBER: 4011 FRENCH OAK COURT. If the instructions above don't do it for you, try Mapquest."
Sue called a bit ago to say she is at the lake, has had dinner, done some shopping, had the air conditioner fixed, and was planning on staying up for the arrival of Scott and sons.
Shelly has provided detailed driving instructions to her and Chris' house. Here they are:
"From 70: either East or West - Take the Hwy 94 Exit, which is the second exit West of the Blanchette Bridge. Head South remaining on 94 until an electrical light at Harvester. Directions continued from asterisks bolded below.
From 270 North to 40 West: Go over MO River Bridge, 1st exit is HWY 94, take a right - continue through several lights to Kisker Road electrical light (Dirt Cheap on right), take a right - go almost 2 miles and take a left on Towers Road. Head another 2 miles (you will past Lakeview Farms - Sampson on left). Our subdivision is the Vineyards on the right Napa Lane - go past the clubhouse and tennis courts - second left - French Oak Lane. Go around the curve - we are 4011- Trailblazer will probably be in the driveway.
{I have found that Page is quicker, since both 40 and 94 are a pain - Your choice}
From 270 North to Page/364 West: Take Page west until the first electrical light - *****Harvester Road, take a left. Go right around the corner to the next light, Caulk's Hill (Walgreens on rt./Shell on lt.) Take a left. Continue a few miles until the first Stop sign - Towers road - Take a right. The second left will be the Vineyards Subdivision - Napa Lane - go past the clubhouse and tennis courts - second left - French Oak Lane. Go around the curve - we are 4011- Trailblazer will probably be in the driveway.
Be prepared for crazy, HUGE puppy to greet you!!!!
REMEMBER: 4011 FRENCH OAK COURT. If the instructions above don't do it for you, try Mapquest."
Sue called a bit ago to say she is at the lake, has had dinner, done some shopping, had the air conditioner fixed, and was planning on staying up for the arrival of Scott and sons.
It's Sue here, and I am home. My physician released me this morning with no restrictions but with instructions to drink Gatorade. My plan is to get packed and drive to the lake this afternoon where I will meet up with Maddog to do get-ready-for-the-holiday-weekend things.
We had a temporary miscommunication about the Family Reunion. We will gather at Chris and Shelly's at 3:00 pm on Saturday, June 3. Chris will post a map here. Will all Dear Readers please make note and tell anyone else that you know plans to attend. It will be Saturday at Chris and Shelly's and Sunday afternoon at Dan and Stephanie's.
Bernie and Maudie's daughter Sandy called last night. She and one sister, Cindy, will be arriving late on Thursday night, June 1. Then Bernie called to say they are RV'ing here slowly and will arrive sometime next week. Margaret, Sue, and I have been consulting about details all along. Please bring any old photos that you might think would be of interest.
Joe and family are driving from Springfield, and the word from Joe is that Brian Madden may be able to make it. Pete and Janet are driving from Idaho Falls and will arrive on June 1 in the evening.
We need more RSVP's! On Friday we are considering making a reservation for (????) at a restaurant where anyone who wishes can gather.
We had a temporary miscommunication about the Family Reunion. We will gather at Chris and Shelly's at 3:00 pm on Saturday, June 3. Chris will post a map here. Will all Dear Readers please make note and tell anyone else that you know plans to attend. It will be Saturday at Chris and Shelly's and Sunday afternoon at Dan and Stephanie's.
Bernie and Maudie's daughter Sandy called last night. She and one sister, Cindy, will be arriving late on Thursday night, June 1. Then Bernie called to say they are RV'ing here slowly and will arrive sometime next week. Margaret, Sue, and I have been consulting about details all along. Please bring any old photos that you might think would be of interest.
Joe and family are driving from Springfield, and the word from Joe is that Brian Madden may be able to make it. Pete and Janet are driving from Idaho Falls and will arrive on June 1 in the evening.
We need more RSVP's! On Friday we are considering making a reservation for (????) at a restaurant where anyone who wishes can gather.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Sue called me just now, very upset that she is to remain in the hospital. Her sodium level is still low, and the doctor won't let her come home until it is normal. She feels fine, so being confined like this is very, very trying. Her hospital phone number is 314 523 2796. She is in St. Luke's Hospital, 232 South Woods Mill, Chesterfield, 63017, Room 7623, Bed 1.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
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
Sue is still in St. Luke's Hospital. Her physician is keeping her another day because her sodium level is still low. Yesterday the level was o.k. Today it is down again. The doctor is thinking that some medication her neurologist recently increased might be the cause as reduced sodium level is one side effect.
Since recovering from the flu-like symptoms, Sue feels fine. Yesterday she probably walked a couple of miles. As you might guess, being stuck another day at that place has her depressed, especially since this was the week she had planned on being at the lake.
More when there is more to report.
Sue is still in St. Luke's Hospital. Her physician is keeping her another day because her sodium level is still low. Yesterday the level was o.k. Today it is down again. The doctor is thinking that some medication her neurologist recently increased might be the cause as reduced sodium level is one side effect.
Since recovering from the flu-like symptoms, Sue feels fine. Yesterday she probably walked a couple of miles. As you might guess, being stuck another day at that place has her depressed, especially since this was the week she had planned on being at the lake.
More when there is more to report.
Monday, May 22, 2006
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
This is Rose with a quick update. Sue fell ill during the night Saturday with severe flu-like symptoms. Sunday morning, following instructions of the on-call physician, Shirley and I took her to the emergency room at St. Luke's. The team there got her on in IV drip quickly, and that started making her feel better. Blood tests showed her sodium level was low, so that meant an overnight stay in the hospital. She may come home today or may have to stay until tomorrow. She called this morning to say she feels much better, stomach settled down, no nausea, and only a mild headache. Looks like an old-fashioned case of viral flu from which she is recovering quickly.
The timing is terrible as Sue was all set to go the lake on Sunday to be there through the Memorial Day weekend. That trip is now delayed at least until Wednesday. The best laid plans . . . .
More when we know more.
This is Rose with a quick update. Sue fell ill during the night Saturday with severe flu-like symptoms. Sunday morning, following instructions of the on-call physician, Shirley and I took her to the emergency room at St. Luke's. The team there got her on in IV drip quickly, and that started making her feel better. Blood tests showed her sodium level was low, so that meant an overnight stay in the hospital. She may come home today or may have to stay until tomorrow. She called this morning to say she feels much better, stomach settled down, no nausea, and only a mild headache. Looks like an old-fashioned case of viral flu from which she is recovering quickly.
The timing is terrible as Sue was all set to go the lake on Sunday to be there through the Memorial Day weekend. That trip is now delayed at least until Wednesday. The best laid plans . . . .
More when we know more.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
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
Plans for the Family Reunion are shaping up nicely. On Saturday, June 3, we will all gather at Chris and Shelly's home in St. Charles for a catered dinner and program. On Sunday Stephanie and Dan are hosting all of us for an afternoon barbeque and swim at their home in Troy. [To help cover expenses, we will ask everyone to chip in some fair share.] Chris, who is good at this sort of thing, is preparing a flyer and will provide driving instructions.
PLEASE!!! KNOW THAT IF YOU HAVE ANY MADDEN-FELIN-LAFOE BLOOD IN YOU OR HAVE MARRIED INTO THE BLOODLINE, YOU ARE INVITED. If you don't get an invitation, either we didn't have your address or it was simply an oversight. DO COME. If you read this, and need additional information, call: (314) 726-2032 or (636) 936-0494; or e-mail: MarthaBoaz@aol.com or dingspreitler@hotmail.com
Margaret and Norm, Rose and Shirley, Chris and Shelly, and I have lots of extra room to put up out-of-towners. Also Bernie and Maudie are bringing their travel trailer which they will park at Cuivre River State Park, just north of Troy. Margaret and Norm plan to place their travel trailer at the park if additional room is needed. Altogether, we should have sufficient room to accomodate everyone.
Please bring photos, memorabilia, and stories to share. We've cajoled Pete into being the M.C. for Saturday evening and we will count on him for some level of organization. On Sunday we hope Margaret and Norm will lead us all in an old-fashioned hootenany. For those of you who haven't been to one of these Abbott events, it is indeed a wonderful hoot.
Of course, over the two-three days we will all comingle and get acquainted and reacquainted. Truly, we are a blessed bunch, and this occasion is primarily one of GRATITUDE.
Enough about the family reunion for now. Other news:
Joe Felin continues to mend. He is doing cardiac rehab three days a week, is back to driving (his new wheels), and is walking two miles everyday. I am spending next week and the Memorial Day weekend at the lake. Joe may come for a visit on one of these days. I haven't seen him since he had the heart attack and went under the knife, so this will be a special pleasure.
One reason for the long delay in updating the blog is that I got my new Saturn Ion, a green one, and have been keeping the roads hot. Rose and I had some difficulties in making the purchase. When Pete goes in to buy a car, the first thing he tells the salespeople is that he's been supporting car salesmen all his life. That sets the tone. He taught us well. The Saturn salesman was very happy when we finally drove away after at least six different negotiating visits. He has even promised to wash my car every day if I bring it in.
Margaret, Norman, and I went to the lake this week. Norman, who only likes to drive his own truck, reluctantly admitted that he enjoyed driving my Ion. It may have something to do with the price of gasoline and 30 miles per gallon fuel economy. Norman, bless his heart, rigged the key for me so I can handle it readily with my diminished dexterity. [I paid $95 to a technician when I had a key rigged for Rose's car.] THANKS, NORMAN!
Catrina and Robbie's Sam is a budding baseball star. He is on a Troy team which his father coaches and his mother cheers on with a website. If you are interested in investing in a farm team of a farm team of a farm team for the major league, this young team could use some donations toward uniforms and equipment. Their address is: Sam King, 585 Cap au Gris, Troy, MO 63379. We will ask Catrina to put the website address on this blog so that team supporters can keep up with the news.
With Catrina's help and input from Shirley, Brother Joe, and Marilyn Smith, I am signed up for a supplemental health policy and for Humana prescription drug coverage. My total costs, as of July 1, will be about $200/month as opposed to about $2000 per month now. This is one big relief!
My next immuno-globulin injection is scheduled for June 8. This one will be done in Dr. Dooley's office. It takes all day to drip the stuff into my vein, and it will be a long, boring ordeal. However, after each treatment (this will be #5) I have added strength, especially in my legs, so it is worth the one day of dis-ease.
Plans for the Family Reunion are shaping up nicely. On Saturday, June 3, we will all gather at Chris and Shelly's home in St. Charles for a catered dinner and program. On Sunday Stephanie and Dan are hosting all of us for an afternoon barbeque and swim at their home in Troy. [To help cover expenses, we will ask everyone to chip in some fair share.] Chris, who is good at this sort of thing, is preparing a flyer and will provide driving instructions.
PLEASE!!! KNOW THAT IF YOU HAVE ANY MADDEN-FELIN-LAFOE BLOOD IN YOU OR HAVE MARRIED INTO THE BLOODLINE, YOU ARE INVITED. If you don't get an invitation, either we didn't have your address or it was simply an oversight. DO COME. If you read this, and need additional information, call: (314) 726-2032 or (636) 936-0494; or e-mail: MarthaBoaz@aol.com or dingspreitler@hotmail.com
Margaret and Norm, Rose and Shirley, Chris and Shelly, and I have lots of extra room to put up out-of-towners. Also Bernie and Maudie are bringing their travel trailer which they will park at Cuivre River State Park, just north of Troy. Margaret and Norm plan to place their travel trailer at the park if additional room is needed. Altogether, we should have sufficient room to accomodate everyone.
Please bring photos, memorabilia, and stories to share. We've cajoled Pete into being the M.C. for Saturday evening and we will count on him for some level of organization. On Sunday we hope Margaret and Norm will lead us all in an old-fashioned hootenany. For those of you who haven't been to one of these Abbott events, it is indeed a wonderful hoot.
Of course, over the two-three days we will all comingle and get acquainted and reacquainted. Truly, we are a blessed bunch, and this occasion is primarily one of GRATITUDE.
Enough about the family reunion for now. Other news:
Joe Felin continues to mend. He is doing cardiac rehab three days a week, is back to driving (his new wheels), and is walking two miles everyday. I am spending next week and the Memorial Day weekend at the lake. Joe may come for a visit on one of these days. I haven't seen him since he had the heart attack and went under the knife, so this will be a special pleasure.
One reason for the long delay in updating the blog is that I got my new Saturn Ion, a green one, and have been keeping the roads hot. Rose and I had some difficulties in making the purchase. When Pete goes in to buy a car, the first thing he tells the salespeople is that he's been supporting car salesmen all his life. That sets the tone. He taught us well. The Saturn salesman was very happy when we finally drove away after at least six different negotiating visits. He has even promised to wash my car every day if I bring it in.
Margaret, Norman, and I went to the lake this week. Norman, who only likes to drive his own truck, reluctantly admitted that he enjoyed driving my Ion. It may have something to do with the price of gasoline and 30 miles per gallon fuel economy. Norman, bless his heart, rigged the key for me so I can handle it readily with my diminished dexterity. [I paid $95 to a technician when I had a key rigged for Rose's car.] THANKS, NORMAN!
Catrina and Robbie's Sam is a budding baseball star. He is on a Troy team which his father coaches and his mother cheers on with a website. If you are interested in investing in a farm team of a farm team of a farm team for the major league, this young team could use some donations toward uniforms and equipment. Their address is: Sam King, 585 Cap au Gris, Troy, MO 63379. We will ask Catrina to put the website address on this blog so that team supporters can keep up with the news.
With Catrina's help and input from Shirley, Brother Joe, and Marilyn Smith, I am signed up for a supplemental health policy and for Humana prescription drug coverage. My total costs, as of July 1, will be about $200/month as opposed to about $2000 per month now. This is one big relief!
My next immuno-globulin injection is scheduled for June 8. This one will be done in Dr. Dooley's office. It takes all day to drip the stuff into my vein, and it will be a long, boring ordeal. However, after each treatment (this will be #5) I have added strength, especially in my legs, so it is worth the one day of dis-ease.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Shelly, my daughter-in-law and our co-host for the family reunion, is organizing to send out invitations this weekend. We will send to all the family members we have addresses for, but we will surely miss some who will want to come. PLEASE ALERT US AND SEND ADDRESSES ASAP. You can e-mail to me (MarthaBoaz@aol.com) or to Chris and Shelly (dingspreitler@hotmail.com).
Joe Felin has bought his new van, a Chevrolet Uplander, an excellent choice we think. Also a sign that Brother Joe is returning to normal after his hair-raising heart surgery. I am about to purchase a Saturn Ion. Brayden, with whom I have consulted, insists that I get a "geen color one." Turns out the green (a cypress green) is very pretty and would be my choice. However, there is not one to be found with the accessories I require. This is model change so the pickins' are slim for what I'm after. Looks like cherry red will be the color.
Doug and Suzanne had me over for dinner last night. When I was telling them about my car and about getting the key modified for my hands, Doug said, "What! Don't pay for that. Bring me the key, and I'll do it for nothing." So, that's what I am going to do. They surely make me feel welcome and take extra pains to care for me.
Shirley is slowly improving from the effects of her fall five weeks ago. She will undoubtedly have to have that rotator cuff surgery before all is said and done. She's resigned to it and wants to get it behind her. She will see her physician/surgeon on Monday.
Margaret Ann is doing some doctoring as a follow-up to her recent hospital stay. She saw her neurologist this week and will have an MRI and some blood tests next week. Still no explaination for the dizzy spells she has suffered. The good news is that her heart is fine.
I never thought I would look forward to the day when I would be eligible for Medicare, but that day has come. On July 1 I will get Medicare coverage and can drop the very expensive ($1900/month) health insurance I have now. All things considered, I've been lucky to have insurance at all. Catrina, my most important health care provider, is fixing me up with a supplemental policy and is suggesting Humana for prescription drug coverage. Anyone else have input on this subject? When I last saw my neurologist he suggested I have the immuno-globulin treatments about every six months. I should have the next one in June. Shirley's sister has this kind of treatment regularly, but she is required to stay in the hospital overnight for it because of a Medicare requirement. I surely don't want to have to do that, but will if necessary.
Remember the word for today: ADDRESSES!
Joe Felin has bought his new van, a Chevrolet Uplander, an excellent choice we think. Also a sign that Brother Joe is returning to normal after his hair-raising heart surgery. I am about to purchase a Saturn Ion. Brayden, with whom I have consulted, insists that I get a "geen color one." Turns out the green (a cypress green) is very pretty and would be my choice. However, there is not one to be found with the accessories I require. This is model change so the pickins' are slim for what I'm after. Looks like cherry red will be the color.
Doug and Suzanne had me over for dinner last night. When I was telling them about my car and about getting the key modified for my hands, Doug said, "What! Don't pay for that. Bring me the key, and I'll do it for nothing." So, that's what I am going to do. They surely make me feel welcome and take extra pains to care for me.
Shirley is slowly improving from the effects of her fall five weeks ago. She will undoubtedly have to have that rotator cuff surgery before all is said and done. She's resigned to it and wants to get it behind her. She will see her physician/surgeon on Monday.
Margaret Ann is doing some doctoring as a follow-up to her recent hospital stay. She saw her neurologist this week and will have an MRI and some blood tests next week. Still no explaination for the dizzy spells she has suffered. The good news is that her heart is fine.
I never thought I would look forward to the day when I would be eligible for Medicare, but that day has come. On July 1 I will get Medicare coverage and can drop the very expensive ($1900/month) health insurance I have now. All things considered, I've been lucky to have insurance at all. Catrina, my most important health care provider, is fixing me up with a supplemental policy and is suggesting Humana for prescription drug coverage. Anyone else have input on this subject? When I last saw my neurologist he suggested I have the immuno-globulin treatments about every six months. I should have the next one in June. Shirley's sister has this kind of treatment regularly, but she is required to stay in the hospital overnight for it because of a Medicare requirement. I surely don't want to have to do that, but will if necessary.
Remember the word for today: ADDRESSES!
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Shirley, Rose, and I returned to St. Louis last night. Mark Goldman called for us at the airport. We were three old bedraggled ladies by the time we got home. Quickly, though, we have settled into our regular routines.
We had a updating e-mail from Brother Joe about his doctor visit today, which we are happy to post here:
"X-ray showed completely clear, lungs & heart continue to sound good. In my analysis, things are going as good as can be expected, probably even better than expected!
I will be going back on May 2nd & 3rd, to see the heart Dr. and get going on some monitored
cardiac rehab. Probably 3 days per week.
Weight limitations will continue through June, to insure nothing is pulled loose in the chest surgery area.
He said this type operation uses up all the reserves & I will also be building them back, as
progress continues.
Love, bro Joe"
We neglected to mention to Joe that Rose and I stopped by a Chevrolet dealer in Covington, KY, to see what the Uplander (the van he is considering) looks like. I went with Joe several years ago when he purchased his current van and helped his choose it--a task I enjoyed immensely. From what we saw of the Uplander, he did very well this time without my input.
Tomorrow Rose and I will make a quick trip to the lake to make sure all the work was done to my satisfaction--this from the leaky faucet in the new bathroom that did so much damage. The new whole house water filter is in, but still the shower doors are not installed. It surely takes a act of god to have anything happen when you are 150 miles from the scene. Rose and I will go to Home Depot this time since Lowe's completely dropped the ball on my order. Lowe's even lost the order completely. After some argument with the store manager, he did refund the monies I had already paid.
Speaking of home repair, Rose and Shirley noticed some lifted shingles on the roof of their house last week. Today the Farmer's Insurance adjuster came to take a look and determined the house had $6500 of hail damage! Looks like a new roof, siding repair, and other stuff will get done here to the complete surprise of all three of us.
We had a updating e-mail from Brother Joe about his doctor visit today, which we are happy to post here:
"X-ray showed completely clear, lungs & heart continue to sound good. In my analysis, things are going as good as can be expected, probably even better than expected!
I will be going back on May 2nd & 3rd, to see the heart Dr. and get going on some monitored
cardiac rehab. Probably 3 days per week.
Weight limitations will continue through June, to insure nothing is pulled loose in the chest surgery area.
He said this type operation uses up all the reserves & I will also be building them back, as
progress continues.
Love, bro Joe"
We neglected to mention to Joe that Rose and I stopped by a Chevrolet dealer in Covington, KY, to see what the Uplander (the van he is considering) looks like. I went with Joe several years ago when he purchased his current van and helped his choose it--a task I enjoyed immensely. From what we saw of the Uplander, he did very well this time without my input.
Tomorrow Rose and I will make a quick trip to the lake to make sure all the work was done to my satisfaction--this from the leaky faucet in the new bathroom that did so much damage. The new whole house water filter is in, but still the shower doors are not installed. It surely takes a act of god to have anything happen when you are 150 miles from the scene. Rose and I will go to Home Depot this time since Lowe's completely dropped the ball on my order. Lowe's even lost the order completely. After some argument with the store manager, he did refund the monies I had already paid.
Speaking of home repair, Rose and Shirley noticed some lifted shingles on the roof of their house last week. Today the Farmer's Insurance adjuster came to take a look and determined the house had $6500 of hail damage! Looks like a new roof, siding repair, and other stuff will get done here to the complete surprise of all three of us.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Yesterday Shirley, Shirley's sister, Sue, and I drove from Covington, LA, here to Lake Charles, LA. The devastation we have seen during our trip south has been awesome. You can't believe how much worse things look first-hand from the impressions you get from television.
On Friday we drove through the Lower Ninth Ward and through St. Bernard Parish. Unbelievable! After all these months there is debris everywhere, houses collapsed or heavily damaged, huge trees lying on the ground, whole areas seemingly untouched since Katrina blew through. We drove past the school where Shirley's sister, Loretta, taught for years. She pointed out how it was then because now it is a pile of rubble.
Here in Lake Charles where Rita struck the hardest conditions are better, but evidence of the storm is everywhere.
It is horrific, horrific. And we have seen only a small fraction of the horror--and that eight months past the event.
At one point Sue asked who would want to live in such a god-forsaken place, especially after god left such a mess in his wake. As it turns out, lots of people must want to live here because property values are soaring and the traffic is something to behold. There is a lot of construction in the areas north of New Orleans, especially on the north shore of Lake Ponchartrain in Covington and Slidell.
Yesterday was Sue's birthday. Shirley dropped the two of us at a new and luxurious casino where we gambled for a while (lost everything), then had a grand dinner in a fabulous restaurant next door (charged everything). It was a nice way to spend this birthday. We both reminisced about this day 20 years ago when we saw "Cats" in London followed by a birthday dinner, also at a nice restaurant. The other birthdays are mostly a fog--except of course for the big 60 bash when Sue was so ill.
Now we are about to check out of this hotel and head south again. More later.
On Friday we drove through the Lower Ninth Ward and through St. Bernard Parish. Unbelievable! After all these months there is debris everywhere, houses collapsed or heavily damaged, huge trees lying on the ground, whole areas seemingly untouched since Katrina blew through. We drove past the school where Shirley's sister, Loretta, taught for years. She pointed out how it was then because now it is a pile of rubble.
Here in Lake Charles where Rita struck the hardest conditions are better, but evidence of the storm is everywhere.
It is horrific, horrific. And we have seen only a small fraction of the horror--and that eight months past the event.
At one point Sue asked who would want to live in such a god-forsaken place, especially after god left such a mess in his wake. As it turns out, lots of people must want to live here because property values are soaring and the traffic is something to behold. There is a lot of construction in the areas north of New Orleans, especially on the north shore of Lake Ponchartrain in Covington and Slidell.
Yesterday was Sue's birthday. Shirley dropped the two of us at a new and luxurious casino where we gambled for a while (lost everything), then had a grand dinner in a fabulous restaurant next door (charged everything). It was a nice way to spend this birthday. We both reminisced about this day 20 years ago when we saw "Cats" in London followed by a birthday dinner, also at a nice restaurant. The other birthdays are mostly a fog--except of course for the big 60 bash when Sue was so ill.
Now we are about to check out of this hotel and head south again. More later.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Hello from Sue and Rose in Louisiana. We flew into New Orleans yesterday afternoon, rented a car, shopped at Whole Foods, then drove across Lake Ponchatrain (sp?) to Shirley's sister and brother-in-law's home here in Covington. Rose and I came here to Barnes and Noble Bookseller this morning to sign on to the internet and do a brief update.
We haven't seen a lot of Katrina damage yet, but we haven't yet visited any areas that were devastated. Last night we drove to Slidell, about 30 minutes from here, to visit Shirley's niece and her new baby. The child, Savanna, is beautiful! In Slidell we could see a whole lot of debris still along side the streets, but it was too dark to see more.
More about our trip later. We return to St. Louis on Tuesday.
Shirley saw her orthopedic specialist on Tuesday and is scheduled to see another specialist (this about her ankle) and to have an MRI of her shoulder next week. It is too soon to know the extent of injuries or the required fix. She is still in a lot of pain and favors her right shoulder by wearing a sling.
Chris and Shelly are having a big garage sale on May 6. Rose, Shirley, and I have been gathering stuff for the event. Mark Goldman, one of my favorite sons, has been helping with the loading and ferrying to the Spreitlers' house.
We had a great chat with Brother Joe on-line Monday evening. He sounded just great, but his typing is still slow. Poor guy, he had a hard time responding to our lightning fast old-secretarial skill. Joe has to see his doctor before he will be allowed to drive. The new car fever was unaffected by his hospital stay. He is thinking of buying a Chevrolet Uplander--whatever that is. Rose and I have been looking for one on the road. They must be rare.
Brayden just called his Granny to say thank you for his and Jalen's Easter Cards with money enclosed. I think his father twisted his arm to get him to talk because he sounded like he was doing the obligatory thing.
Brayden is into his bathroom-humor state. Just now he said something about 'poo poo' and laughed loudly, then repeated himself several times. God knows what he was telling me.
Dear Readers, if you think we are going on and on here, it is because we had to pay for two hours of internet access, and we are determined to get our money's worth--especially since we don't have Pete's credit card. And Pete has put a lien on Joe's.
We are awaiting word from all folk who plan to attend the family reunion JUNE 3-4 in St. Louis. Also, we need stories to help put together an informative evening. Mark Goldman has offered to gather any material into book form for us.
We haven't seen a lot of Katrina damage yet, but we haven't yet visited any areas that were devastated. Last night we drove to Slidell, about 30 minutes from here, to visit Shirley's niece and her new baby. The child, Savanna, is beautiful! In Slidell we could see a whole lot of debris still along side the streets, but it was too dark to see more.
More about our trip later. We return to St. Louis on Tuesday.
Shirley saw her orthopedic specialist on Tuesday and is scheduled to see another specialist (this about her ankle) and to have an MRI of her shoulder next week. It is too soon to know the extent of injuries or the required fix. She is still in a lot of pain and favors her right shoulder by wearing a sling.
Chris and Shelly are having a big garage sale on May 6. Rose, Shirley, and I have been gathering stuff for the event. Mark Goldman, one of my favorite sons, has been helping with the loading and ferrying to the Spreitlers' house.
We had a great chat with Brother Joe on-line Monday evening. He sounded just great, but his typing is still slow. Poor guy, he had a hard time responding to our lightning fast old-secretarial skill. Joe has to see his doctor before he will be allowed to drive. The new car fever was unaffected by his hospital stay. He is thinking of buying a Chevrolet Uplander--whatever that is. Rose and I have been looking for one on the road. They must be rare.
Brayden just called his Granny to say thank you for his and Jalen's Easter Cards with money enclosed. I think his father twisted his arm to get him to talk because he sounded like he was doing the obligatory thing.
Brayden is into his bathroom-humor state. Just now he said something about 'poo poo' and laughed loudly, then repeated himself several times. God knows what he was telling me.
Dear Readers, if you think we are going on and on here, it is because we had to pay for two hours of internet access, and we are determined to get our money's worth--especially since we don't have Pete's credit card. And Pete has put a lien on Joe's.
We are awaiting word from all folk who plan to attend the family reunion JUNE 3-4 in St. Louis. Also, we need stories to help put together an informative evening. Mark Goldman has offered to gather any material into book form for us.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
We are tracking Brother Joe's progress. He went home from the hospital on Thursday, April 7, and is progressing nicely. Pete told us he talked with Joe yesterday, and Joe is now able to walk two blocks but is not driving yet. His family is taking excellent care of him.
Pete also told us that Janet had her rotater cuff (shoulder) surgery on Tuesday and is recovering, albeit with a lot of pain. Daughter Merri, who several weeks ago had a similar surgery, has been helping out with Janet's care.
Shirley is on the mend, slowly, from the awful fall she took on our stairway two weeks ago. She is doing lots of physical therapy, wearing her right arm in a sling, and taking lots of pain killers. She will see the orthopedic specialist on Tuesday and hopefully will get good new then.
Bernie called today. He and Maudie had gone to son Mike's birthday celebration, along with most of the other family. Bernie and Maudie are making plans to come to the family reunion as is part of their family. They are going to drive and bring their mobile home.
Rose and I talked with Chris and Shelly a bit today about reunion plans. This should be a nice event. One of Chris and Scott's friends, Mark Goldman who is a writer and an English teacher, has volunteered to put together a "Family Story Book" if we provide the content. If any of our Dear Readers are so inclined, we would love to get your stories--happy, sad, historical, or otherwise. We'll hand them over to Goldman for putting into book form.
Mark and Karen had a luncheon today at their new house in Kirkwood. We got to meet some of Karen's family and had a wonderful time. Their home is stunning even though they are not nearly settled in yet.
Rose has now found that she can post video on the internet. We did a small film (art?). Should you wish to view it, simply click on the "Felin Family News" link on the upper right hand of this page. The link will take you to Podomatic where you can click on (small tab at bottom left of post) "Sue, Talking about the Recent Trip to Louisville." This first video podcast is a test. Let us know what you think. The possibilities for sharing family news are great.
Pete also told us that Janet had her rotater cuff (shoulder) surgery on Tuesday and is recovering, albeit with a lot of pain. Daughter Merri, who several weeks ago had a similar surgery, has been helping out with Janet's care.
Shirley is on the mend, slowly, from the awful fall she took on our stairway two weeks ago. She is doing lots of physical therapy, wearing her right arm in a sling, and taking lots of pain killers. She will see the orthopedic specialist on Tuesday and hopefully will get good new then.
Bernie called today. He and Maudie had gone to son Mike's birthday celebration, along with most of the other family. Bernie and Maudie are making plans to come to the family reunion as is part of their family. They are going to drive and bring their mobile home.
Rose and I talked with Chris and Shelly a bit today about reunion plans. This should be a nice event. One of Chris and Scott's friends, Mark Goldman who is a writer and an English teacher, has volunteered to put together a "Family Story Book" if we provide the content. If any of our Dear Readers are so inclined, we would love to get your stories--happy, sad, historical, or otherwise. We'll hand them over to Goldman for putting into book form.
Mark and Karen had a luncheon today at their new house in Kirkwood. We got to meet some of Karen's family and had a wonderful time. Their home is stunning even though they are not nearly settled in yet.
Rose has now found that she can post video on the internet. We did a small film (art?). Should you wish to view it, simply click on the "Felin Family News" link on the upper right hand of this page. The link will take you to Podomatic where you can click on (small tab at bottom left of post) "Sue, Talking about the Recent Trip to Louisville." This first video podcast is a test. Let us know what you think. The possibilities for sharing family news are great.
Sunday, April 02, 2006
We are happy to report that Joe is recovering nicely from his surgery. He had a four-way bypass on Friday, will be in the intensive care unit for two-three days, then in a regular room for a few days more. Margaret has been talking with Mary to get updates, and Lisa has checked in with us.Lisa told us she knew her father was fine when the nurse reported to her that she had told him to keep his covers on, that he was exposing his 'privates.' Joe responded, "You're lucky. Usually I charge a dollar for that."
On the other news front, Shirley took a terrific head-first fall on the front stairway Friday afternoon. She refused a call to 911, so Rose took her to the St. Mary's Emergency Room where she waited in the "Fast Track" for 5 1/2 hours to be examined. [God help those on the slow track!] After x-rays of her right arm, hand, and shoulder, and a cat scan of her face, the doctors determined she had no broken bones and no damage to her face or her eye. However, she has some torn ligaments. She has a very black eye and very sore arm and shoulder. The emergency room staff rigged her up with a temporary splint and sling to help relieve the pain and pressure and sent her home with instructions to see her primary care physician on Monday or Tuesday.
Jana and John had a beautiful, almost eight pound baby girl Friday evening. Jana's mother and step-father drove all night to greet this new grandchild. Her name is Ellie Lyn, and mother and daughter are doing fine. We plan to visit them this afternoon.
This is Guys' Work/Play Weekend at the Lake. Their project this year was to power wash and stain the deck. Chris called this morning to report Mission Accomplished. They worked hard and they played hard, and they ate a lot. As usual, Doug provided guidance and leadership and prodding for the project to Chris, Scott, Mark Goldman, Maddog, and Danny.
On the other news front, Shirley took a terrific head-first fall on the front stairway Friday afternoon. She refused a call to 911, so Rose took her to the St. Mary's Emergency Room where she waited in the "Fast Track" for 5 1/2 hours to be examined. [God help those on the slow track!] After x-rays of her right arm, hand, and shoulder, and a cat scan of her face, the doctors determined she had no broken bones and no damage to her face or her eye. However, she has some torn ligaments. She has a very black eye and very sore arm and shoulder. The emergency room staff rigged her up with a temporary splint and sling to help relieve the pain and pressure and sent her home with instructions to see her primary care physician on Monday or Tuesday.
Jana and John had a beautiful, almost eight pound baby girl Friday evening. Jana's mother and step-father drove all night to greet this new grandchild. Her name is Ellie Lyn, and mother and daughter are doing fine. We plan to visit them this afternoon.
This is Guys' Work/Play Weekend at the Lake. Their project this year was to power wash and stain the deck. Chris called this morning to report Mission Accomplished. They worked hard and they played hard, and they ate a lot. As usual, Doug provided guidance and leadership and prodding for the project to Chris, Scott, Mark Goldman, Maddog, and Danny.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
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
NEWS FLASH: Brother Joe had a heart attack yesterday morning and is in Cox Medical Center in Springfield, MO. His symptoms started Wednesday morning and became severe enough that he called his daughter, Beth. Beth went to his house immediately and took him to the hospital because he refused to let her call an ambulance. Shortly after arriving at the Emergency Room, Joe received treatment that relieved the symptoms and stabilized him. After some tests, doctors determined that he has blockage in three arteries and will require bypass surgery.
Joe is in the cardiac intensive care unit at Cox South. The number for Cox is 417 269-6000.
Lisa, Joe's other daughter, called last night to fill us in on this development. Rose and I talked with Joe this morning. He sounded like himself, inquiring about everybody else. His surgery is scheduled for tomorrow, and one troubling question, his platelet count from an existing condition, is settled. The count is fine and poses no issues for surgery. Joe is eager to get the whole thing over with.
We'll update as we get new information.
NEWS FLASH: Brother Joe had a heart attack yesterday morning and is in Cox Medical Center in Springfield, MO. His symptoms started Wednesday morning and became severe enough that he called his daughter, Beth. Beth went to his house immediately and took him to the hospital because he refused to let her call an ambulance. Shortly after arriving at the Emergency Room, Joe received treatment that relieved the symptoms and stabilized him. After some tests, doctors determined that he has blockage in three arteries and will require bypass surgery.
Joe is in the cardiac intensive care unit at Cox South. The number for Cox is 417 269-6000.
Lisa, Joe's other daughter, called last night to fill us in on this development. Rose and I talked with Joe this morning. He sounded like himself, inquiring about everybody else. His surgery is scheduled for tomorrow, and one troubling question, his platelet count from an existing condition, is settled. The count is fine and poses no issues for surgery. Joe is eager to get the whole thing over with.
We'll update as we get new information.
Friday, March 24, 2006
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
We have a lot of news to report, some good, some not so good.
First of all, Margaret was hospitalized briefly for chest pains. She was in intensive care for three days (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday of this week), completed a series of tests, and is now home. The tests showed that her heart is functioning very well, and the problem she experienced has nothing to do with her heart. Her primary care physician will recommend a neurologist for Margaret to consult for further examination. She feels much better, and we are all very relieved.
Bernie and Maudie at last report were leaving their daughter Kaye in Mesa, AZ, to travel north. They were to meet Pete and Janet for a couple of days. Pete and Janet returned earlier in March to Idaho Falls, and Janet is scheduled for shoulder surgery in April. We are happy to hear that Bernie is up and about and once again able to travel.
Mark, Chris, and I (sometimes joined by Shelly, Karen, and Rose) continue our weekly luncheon outings. We have developed an international taste, trying Thai, Greek, and of course good old American food. Surely a long way from Turnbow not to mention Miss Muzzie's Cafe.
I continue to battle problems with getting lake house up and running for the upcoming season. Right now, the downstairs bedroom is torn up due to the leak from the new bathroom above it. Now I'm told it will be another 20 to 30 days before all the repair and replacement is complete. Thank goodness, my bathroom contractor's insurance is covering the costs of this work!
Rose and I made a whirlwind trip to the lake on Tuesday-Wednesday of this week and lighted fires under the insurance company agent and his contractor. [We invited brother Joe to join us for dinner, but he was busy with overseeing work on the rental house and couldn't come. Too bad, because we had a fabulous dinner at HK's, Lodge of the Four Seasons. We could have used one of our brother's credit cards for sure!] Mark Goldman and I will return next Tuesday to look over the estimate, select the carpet and paint colors, and light some more fires.
In spite of the upheaval, several fine young men will be at the lake house beginning March 30th for their annual show-up-for-work-and-play trip. I think if they don't come, the others shame them into it the next year. Of course, it is purely wonderful that they do so much and are so good to me. These are the same young people I ran off when they partied at our house when they were all teenagers and in high school. I've forgiven them and obviously they've forgiven me.
Many of you know that our great niece Jana and her husband John now live in the St. Louis area. They are expecting their first child April 1, and we three old ladies are eager to have a new baby near us. Jana is our late brother Bob's granddaughter. Rose, Shirley, and I (with a lot of help from Shelly) hosted a brunch/shower for Jana and John last Sunday. It was great to bring far-flung family together even though some didn't quite know how Jana and John fit into the family and vice versa.
On a more somber note, Jana's mother, Cindy, (widow of our late nephew Bobby) is at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where she had surgery on Monday. Jana e-mailed us a report about her mother. The surgeons were not able to remove all the tumor (colon cancer) but were able to get most of it. Cindy will be at the clinic for 10-14 days and after that will have a four-week recovery at home. If anyone wishes to send a note or card, send it to Cindy Parr, Rochester Methodist Hospital, 201 West Center Street, Patient Care Unit Station 5-2, Room 215A, Rochester, MN, 55902.
My Springfield former neighbor, Leslie, who is newly-married to "that King Boy, Sam," phoned me about her days in Marshfield recently. Sam's grandmother, Lena King, died on Saturday, March 18. Visitation was at the Fraker Funeral Home in Marshfield with burial in the Marshfield Cemetery. The service was at a country church on Highway A near the same road on which Mrs. King lived her entire live. Leslie spoke with some of Sam's relatives, including Shirley Felin (wife of Red Felin). All remembered the Felins and Mother's store on the square. After the burial, Leslie visited our family plot in the cemetery.
Today Chris and I travel midway to Louisville to meet Scott and bring Brayden and Jalen home with us for the weekend. Tomorrow Sabrina's boys have a big basketball game which we plan to attend. Brayden and Jalen will have to go home on Sunday, but we will again have them in two weeks for a longer period. I doubt if they are as excited as we are.
I haven't bought a car yet. In fact, I am approaching Joe's record time for THINKING about buying a new vehicle. Meanwhile I continue to drive Rose's fancy Lexus. Once I find someone to help me at the lake house this summer, I'll go ahead with the purchase. The way things stand now, it looks like Maddog (Chris Lynch) will spend the summer at the lake house with me, and I am looking for a woman who could come for an hour or so daily to help. If any Dear Reader knows someone who is looking for a small part-time job, please contact me.
PLANS FOR THE FAMILY REUNION THE WEEKEND OF JUNE 3-4 are moving slowly. Pete will be our M.C. Chris and Shelly have reserved their subdivision club house for Saturday evening, June 3. Stephanie is gathering and scanning a number of old photos for the event, and Chris will be making a slide-show video of other photos. We need feedback and some idea of who will be attending. The Saturday evening dinner will be catered, so we will be asking for exact numbers later on, but a ballpark figure would help us now. Of course, we are open to suggestions for making this a memorable occasion.
We have a lot of news to report, some good, some not so good.
First of all, Margaret was hospitalized briefly for chest pains. She was in intensive care for three days (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday of this week), completed a series of tests, and is now home. The tests showed that her heart is functioning very well, and the problem she experienced has nothing to do with her heart. Her primary care physician will recommend a neurologist for Margaret to consult for further examination. She feels much better, and we are all very relieved.
Bernie and Maudie at last report were leaving their daughter Kaye in Mesa, AZ, to travel north. They were to meet Pete and Janet for a couple of days. Pete and Janet returned earlier in March to Idaho Falls, and Janet is scheduled for shoulder surgery in April. We are happy to hear that Bernie is up and about and once again able to travel.
Mark, Chris, and I (sometimes joined by Shelly, Karen, and Rose) continue our weekly luncheon outings. We have developed an international taste, trying Thai, Greek, and of course good old American food. Surely a long way from Turnbow not to mention Miss Muzzie's Cafe.
I continue to battle problems with getting lake house up and running for the upcoming season. Right now, the downstairs bedroom is torn up due to the leak from the new bathroom above it. Now I'm told it will be another 20 to 30 days before all the repair and replacement is complete. Thank goodness, my bathroom contractor's insurance is covering the costs of this work!
Rose and I made a whirlwind trip to the lake on Tuesday-Wednesday of this week and lighted fires under the insurance company agent and his contractor. [We invited brother Joe to join us for dinner, but he was busy with overseeing work on the rental house and couldn't come. Too bad, because we had a fabulous dinner at HK's, Lodge of the Four Seasons. We could have used one of our brother's credit cards for sure!] Mark Goldman and I will return next Tuesday to look over the estimate, select the carpet and paint colors, and light some more fires.
In spite of the upheaval, several fine young men will be at the lake house beginning March 30th for their annual show-up-for-work-and-play trip. I think if they don't come, the others shame them into it the next year. Of course, it is purely wonderful that they do so much and are so good to me. These are the same young people I ran off when they partied at our house when they were all teenagers and in high school. I've forgiven them and obviously they've forgiven me.
Many of you know that our great niece Jana and her husband John now live in the St. Louis area. They are expecting their first child April 1, and we three old ladies are eager to have a new baby near us. Jana is our late brother Bob's granddaughter. Rose, Shirley, and I (with a lot of help from Shelly) hosted a brunch/shower for Jana and John last Sunday. It was great to bring far-flung family together even though some didn't quite know how Jana and John fit into the family and vice versa.
On a more somber note, Jana's mother, Cindy, (widow of our late nephew Bobby) is at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where she had surgery on Monday. Jana e-mailed us a report about her mother. The surgeons were not able to remove all the tumor (colon cancer) but were able to get most of it. Cindy will be at the clinic for 10-14 days and after that will have a four-week recovery at home. If anyone wishes to send a note or card, send it to Cindy Parr, Rochester Methodist Hospital, 201 West Center Street, Patient Care Unit Station 5-2, Room 215A, Rochester, MN, 55902.
My Springfield former neighbor, Leslie, who is newly-married to "that King Boy, Sam," phoned me about her days in Marshfield recently. Sam's grandmother, Lena King, died on Saturday, March 18. Visitation was at the Fraker Funeral Home in Marshfield with burial in the Marshfield Cemetery. The service was at a country church on Highway A near the same road on which Mrs. King lived her entire live. Leslie spoke with some of Sam's relatives, including Shirley Felin (wife of Red Felin). All remembered the Felins and Mother's store on the square. After the burial, Leslie visited our family plot in the cemetery.
Today Chris and I travel midway to Louisville to meet Scott and bring Brayden and Jalen home with us for the weekend. Tomorrow Sabrina's boys have a big basketball game which we plan to attend. Brayden and Jalen will have to go home on Sunday, but we will again have them in two weeks for a longer period. I doubt if they are as excited as we are.
I haven't bought a car yet. In fact, I am approaching Joe's record time for THINKING about buying a new vehicle. Meanwhile I continue to drive Rose's fancy Lexus. Once I find someone to help me at the lake house this summer, I'll go ahead with the purchase. The way things stand now, it looks like Maddog (Chris Lynch) will spend the summer at the lake house with me, and I am looking for a woman who could come for an hour or so daily to help. If any Dear Reader knows someone who is looking for a small part-time job, please contact me.
PLANS FOR THE FAMILY REUNION THE WEEKEND OF JUNE 3-4 are moving slowly. Pete will be our M.C. Chris and Shelly have reserved their subdivision club house for Saturday evening, June 3. Stephanie is gathering and scanning a number of old photos for the event, and Chris will be making a slide-show video of other photos. We need feedback and some idea of who will be attending. The Saturday evening dinner will be catered, so we will be asking for exact numbers later on, but a ballpark figure would help us now. Of course, we are open to suggestions for making this a memorable occasion.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Mark, Chris, and I had one of our Friday luncheon dates this past week. We went to Madison's on Manchester. A good time was had by all. As we reported earlier, Mark and Karen have bought a house together in Kirkwood. Friday Mark told Chris and me that he has already sold his house in Fenton for the asking price, first time I've ever heard of that. And the house sold in two days! Mark and Karen are looking forward to getting moved and settling into their new home.
Friday evening Shirley, Rose, and I stopped by Our Lady of Presentation Parish Hall to pick up Lenten fish. Chris, Shelly, Shelly's mother and aunt were there, waiting in line for their Lenten fish. We had a great visit with them. Our Lady of Presentation is the church where Donald and Vita were married and where Vita's mother Leah is a member. I looked around for her but didn't see her.
We talked to Pete on Saturday. He and Janet are heading home to Idaho Falls today. They are returning a week or so early this year because Janet has to have surgery on her shoulder. Meanwhile Bernie and Maudie are headed south to Mesa, AZ, where their daughter Kaye lives. It is awfully good news that Bernie is now able to travel again. They are taking their Fifth Wheel, their home away from home, so they will have a luxurious trip.
In anticipation of my summer at the lake, I have been looking at new cars. The Chevrolet Aveo has caught my eye and was my choice until Shirley got me to go look at Saturns. Now I'm confused and leaning toward a Saturn but afraid to go to a Hummer dealer.
We heard from Joe Felin this week. His new car fever may have passed. Seems he is investing in family travel rather than in new vans these days. We had hoped Joe could meet us at the lake for one of our great dinners and visits, but guess he couldn't get Pete's credit card. [Actually he was booked with appointments and family commitments.]
Rose is off to Chicago tomorrow for a special teaching gig. She will return Wednesday, the day Shirley goes to Chicago. Rose returns to Chicago on Saturday. This is going to be a whirlwind week. Next weekend I plan to stay with Chris and Shelly on Saturday night and with Margaret and Norm on Sunday. Chris and Shelly have said they want to test my new-found long distance walking abilities on the Katy Trail. I hope the weather permits.
This is all the new news from Lake Woebegone. REMEMBER THE FAMILY REUNION. MAKE PLANS TODAY.
Friday evening Shirley, Rose, and I stopped by Our Lady of Presentation Parish Hall to pick up Lenten fish. Chris, Shelly, Shelly's mother and aunt were there, waiting in line for their Lenten fish. We had a great visit with them. Our Lady of Presentation is the church where Donald and Vita were married and where Vita's mother Leah is a member. I looked around for her but didn't see her.
We talked to Pete on Saturday. He and Janet are heading home to Idaho Falls today. They are returning a week or so early this year because Janet has to have surgery on her shoulder. Meanwhile Bernie and Maudie are headed south to Mesa, AZ, where their daughter Kaye lives. It is awfully good news that Bernie is now able to travel again. They are taking their Fifth Wheel, their home away from home, so they will have a luxurious trip.
In anticipation of my summer at the lake, I have been looking at new cars. The Chevrolet Aveo has caught my eye and was my choice until Shirley got me to go look at Saturns. Now I'm confused and leaning toward a Saturn but afraid to go to a Hummer dealer.
We heard from Joe Felin this week. His new car fever may have passed. Seems he is investing in family travel rather than in new vans these days. We had hoped Joe could meet us at the lake for one of our great dinners and visits, but guess he couldn't get Pete's credit card. [Actually he was booked with appointments and family commitments.]
Rose is off to Chicago tomorrow for a special teaching gig. She will return Wednesday, the day Shirley goes to Chicago. Rose returns to Chicago on Saturday. This is going to be a whirlwind week. Next weekend I plan to stay with Chris and Shelly on Saturday night and with Margaret and Norm on Sunday. Chris and Shelly have said they want to test my new-found long distance walking abilities on the Katy Trail. I hope the weather permits.
This is all the new news from Lake Woebegone. REMEMBER THE FAMILY REUNION. MAKE PLANS TODAY.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Rose and I made a quick trip to the lake on Tuesday to check out the new shower in the master bath. It is nearly complete and is very beautiful. However, the shower controls had a drip that had gone undetected by the two men who did all the work. On Wednesday morning Rose and I discovered that the leak had damaged the ceiling in the downstairs bedroom and had soaked some of the carpet. I immediately called the contractor who arrived at the door in about ten minutes. After a brief investigation he discovered the problem and set about fixing it.
When Rose and I left in the late morning, two guys were busy with a wet vac and saws. They were so sorry for the problem (which was theirs) and so quick to respond that we didn't even get too upset. They promised to make the situation right, fix all the ceiling and wall that had to be removed, and repair the leak.
I would like to spend as much of the coming summer at the lake as I can. However, I can't stay alone yet and still need help with bathing, toilet, dressing, shopping, cooking, etc., because of the limited use of my hands. I don't need somebody 24/7. I'm looking for someone, perhaps a student, who would spend part of the summer with me but could be free most weekends when I have other guests. I can pay a small stipend plus room and board, and the person can always find a job in the lake area since the time I would require her would be rather minimal.
I am posting this so that any Dear Reader who knows someone who might be interested in the position can have them call me.
When Rose and I left in the late morning, two guys were busy with a wet vac and saws. They were so sorry for the problem (which was theirs) and so quick to respond that we didn't even get too upset. They promised to make the situation right, fix all the ceiling and wall that had to be removed, and repair the leak.
I would like to spend as much of the coming summer at the lake as I can. However, I can't stay alone yet and still need help with bathing, toilet, dressing, shopping, cooking, etc., because of the limited use of my hands. I don't need somebody 24/7. I'm looking for someone, perhaps a student, who would spend part of the summer with me but could be free most weekends when I have other guests. I can pay a small stipend plus room and board, and the person can always find a job in the lake area since the time I would require her would be rather minimal.
I am posting this so that any Dear Reader who knows someone who might be interested in the position can have them call me.
Friday, February 24, 2006
It has been a while since we updated this blog. We have been in Florida, basking in the sunshine. Truth to tell, we didn't give updating a lot of thought. Also, we didn't have access to the internet. Our weather for our twelve-day stay was spectacular, the best we ever had. It was about 80 degrees F max during the day and down to 50 or so at night. And not a cloud on any horizon. We played a lot of cards, walked our legs off, ate, and rested. I was most happy to discover than my walking has so improved that I actually got up to a four-mile distance on the last two days. Not four miles uninterrupted, but four miles total in a day.
We came home Wednesday night to cold, windy St. Louis. Nice to be home, but much nicer to be in Stef and Dan's Florida digs. THANKS, STEPHANIE AND DAN!!!!!
Brother Bernie is having his ups and downs, health-wise. I talked with both him and Maudie today. They, and some of their offspring, are planning on traveling to St. Louis in early June for the family reunion. Right now, though, Bernie is having to stay close to home because his heart has slowed down and may be having some effect on his liver and kidneys. He is tough as a boot so we fully expect him to travel here in June. He and Maudie plan to bring the Fifth Wheel (whatever that is!) to make their stay even more enjoyable.
Bernie and Maudie's oldest daughter, Anna, was in Florida in the Miami area at the same time we were across the state. The distance was too great for any visiting. Anna is studying at a university in Florida and travels there periodically.
I saw my neurologist, Dr. Dooley, on Thursday. He was delighted, DELIGHTED with my progress since my last IVIG treatment. He is a kindly old fella, but truth is I mostly tell him what I need and when I need it. It was in November 2004 that Chris Costas in Chicago arranged my first IVIG, which Dooley had previously pooh-poohed. Now, four treatments later, Dooley has come around but not without a lot of prodding and poking from me.
Jana (Bob's granddaughter) and her husband John are expecting their first child around April 1. They live in west St. Louis County, and we are hoping to develop a close relationship with this new baby as all three of us LOVE BABIES. We are working on plans for a Sunday brunch get-together for members of the St. Louis family branch to get better acquainted with Jana and John.
Today Chris, Mark, and I had one of our Friday luncheon dates. I must say it is a distinct pleasure to sashay out in public with two such good-looking and charming young men. I am reminded of how much Mother used to love to take Donald and Vita to church with her in Marshfield to "show them off." She said she sometimes felt guilty about her motivation.
We need more feedback about the family reunion so we can make more detailed plans. Pete has agreed to be our M.C. Joe is gathering family history. Stephanie has old photos to scan and copy. We are thinking that on Saturday evening, June 3rd, we would have the Big Gathering, probably at the clubhouse in Chris and Shelly's subdivision. If we can't get the clubhouse (and we won't know until a later date), we will move the gathering to the afternoon in a local park. Mainly, for now we need a ballpark figure on attendance and some volunteers to help organize some activities. For example, would a trip to Webster County and old historical family sites be of interest to anyone? And does anyone have suggestions for the weekend?
We came home Wednesday night to cold, windy St. Louis. Nice to be home, but much nicer to be in Stef and Dan's Florida digs. THANKS, STEPHANIE AND DAN!!!!!
Brother Bernie is having his ups and downs, health-wise. I talked with both him and Maudie today. They, and some of their offspring, are planning on traveling to St. Louis in early June for the family reunion. Right now, though, Bernie is having to stay close to home because his heart has slowed down and may be having some effect on his liver and kidneys. He is tough as a boot so we fully expect him to travel here in June. He and Maudie plan to bring the Fifth Wheel (whatever that is!) to make their stay even more enjoyable.
Bernie and Maudie's oldest daughter, Anna, was in Florida in the Miami area at the same time we were across the state. The distance was too great for any visiting. Anna is studying at a university in Florida and travels there periodically.
I saw my neurologist, Dr. Dooley, on Thursday. He was delighted, DELIGHTED with my progress since my last IVIG treatment. He is a kindly old fella, but truth is I mostly tell him what I need and when I need it. It was in November 2004 that Chris Costas in Chicago arranged my first IVIG, which Dooley had previously pooh-poohed. Now, four treatments later, Dooley has come around but not without a lot of prodding and poking from me.
Jana (Bob's granddaughter) and her husband John are expecting their first child around April 1. They live in west St. Louis County, and we are hoping to develop a close relationship with this new baby as all three of us LOVE BABIES. We are working on plans for a Sunday brunch get-together for members of the St. Louis family branch to get better acquainted with Jana and John.
Today Chris, Mark, and I had one of our Friday luncheon dates. I must say it is a distinct pleasure to sashay out in public with two such good-looking and charming young men. I am reminded of how much Mother used to love to take Donald and Vita to church with her in Marshfield to "show them off." She said she sometimes felt guilty about her motivation.
We need more feedback about the family reunion so we can make more detailed plans. Pete has agreed to be our M.C. Joe is gathering family history. Stephanie has old photos to scan and copy. We are thinking that on Saturday evening, June 3rd, we would have the Big Gathering, probably at the clubhouse in Chris and Shelly's subdivision. If we can't get the clubhouse (and we won't know until a later date), we will move the gathering to the afternoon in a local park. Mainly, for now we need a ballpark figure on attendance and some volunteers to help organize some activities. For example, would a trip to Webster County and old historical family sites be of interest to anyone? And does anyone have suggestions for the weekend?
Friday, February 10, 2006
I went to Louisville on Saturday to spend a few days with Scott, Sherry, Jalen, and Brayden. It was a grand time for me. Brayden turns three on Sunday, February 12 (Abraham Lincoln's birthday as Jalen proudly points out). Brayden doesn't quite know what it all means but knows he will get presents. Scott is taking them to the circus on Sunday.
What was sad for me is that Brayden has turned from a little toddler into a "Big Boy" in the few weeks since he was here at Christmas. He has a new haircut, very modern, that makes him look extremely mature. Jalen, who is very agile and coordinated, serves as a fine role model older brother most of the time. Brayden tries to do everything Jalen does with a lot more scrapes and scratches than his brother suffers.
Jalen is an excellent student. His school is one of the better ones in Louisville and it shows from all the learning this little man does. He is learning English and math concepts that I didn't learn until Junior High School, and he is in the second grade!
I came home on Wednesday. Shirley and Rose were in Chicago, Shirley returned on Monday and Rose on Tuesday. Today Mark and Chris and I had lunch in Kirkwood after we toured the new old home that Mark and Karen are in the process of buying. It is in an old established part of Kirkwood, and is one fine residence.
Tomorrow Rose, Shirley, and I leave for Florida where we will stay almost two weeks in Stef and Dan's condo on Palm Island. Loretta, Shirley's sister, will meet us at the Tampa airport tomorrow. From there we will make our way south to paradise with numerous stops along the way to buy our provisions. Once on the island, we won't leave unless absolutely necessary. There is not much to be had there so we have to take all food and other luxuries with us. This is our favorite vacation, one we have had to miss for the past two years. Circumstances prevented us from going, so now we are four excited Ya-Yas.
We are awaiting word from Brother Bernie on February 13th after he has his doctor's visit. Although we will be somewhat out of touch, we will have our cell phones and voice mails.
Stephanie has taken a lot of old family photos home with her to scan and otherwise copy on her computer system. She is one organized young lady, so all of us can look forward to much family history available next June. She put together beautiful albums of photos she took at my 60th birthday party which I cherish and look at often.
We are taking the computer to Florida with us, but probably won't have much to write about because card hands make for boring reading. Sunsets too.
What was sad for me is that Brayden has turned from a little toddler into a "Big Boy" in the few weeks since he was here at Christmas. He has a new haircut, very modern, that makes him look extremely mature. Jalen, who is very agile and coordinated, serves as a fine role model older brother most of the time. Brayden tries to do everything Jalen does with a lot more scrapes and scratches than his brother suffers.
Jalen is an excellent student. His school is one of the better ones in Louisville and it shows from all the learning this little man does. He is learning English and math concepts that I didn't learn until Junior High School, and he is in the second grade!
I came home on Wednesday. Shirley and Rose were in Chicago, Shirley returned on Monday and Rose on Tuesday. Today Mark and Chris and I had lunch in Kirkwood after we toured the new old home that Mark and Karen are in the process of buying. It is in an old established part of Kirkwood, and is one fine residence.
Tomorrow Rose, Shirley, and I leave for Florida where we will stay almost two weeks in Stef and Dan's condo on Palm Island. Loretta, Shirley's sister, will meet us at the Tampa airport tomorrow. From there we will make our way south to paradise with numerous stops along the way to buy our provisions. Once on the island, we won't leave unless absolutely necessary. There is not much to be had there so we have to take all food and other luxuries with us. This is our favorite vacation, one we have had to miss for the past two years. Circumstances prevented us from going, so now we are four excited Ya-Yas.
We are awaiting word from Brother Bernie on February 13th after he has his doctor's visit. Although we will be somewhat out of touch, we will have our cell phones and voice mails.
Stephanie has taken a lot of old family photos home with her to scan and otherwise copy on her computer system. She is one organized young lady, so all of us can look forward to much family history available next June. She put together beautiful albums of photos she took at my 60th birthday party which I cherish and look at often.
We are taking the computer to Florida with us, but probably won't have much to write about because card hands make for boring reading. Sunsets too.
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