Aqua Island

Brayden's favorite place

Lake

It't Tuesday and a bit chilly for Missouri but still very pleasant weather. Linda's husband, Joe, joined us on Sunday and I feel very lucky to have such wonderful friends. They're both baseball fans so we've been watching the Cardinals among other things. Linda has a GPS on her car so I called Donald Saturday to see if the girls were down. I got no answer so left a message and when he called back, he and Vita were in France and he didn't have the address but assured me he would get it to me. He didn't believe they were down anyway because the boys are still so involved in sports. Rose, Shirley, and Brayden are having a great time in Georgia. Shirley has some nieces who Brayden plays with constantly. I'm sure Rose will post some pictures. Joe has to go back tonight and Linda will leave tomorrow. Goldman will come down then and he's looking forward to her leftovers. She is a superb cook.

Dinner in Nashville

In St Louis

Long night flying around!

Regular Saturday Morning

Saturday morning and Linda and I are here at the lake. Scott was going to fly as far as St. Louis with Brayden and leave him with Rose and Shirley last night but the weather interfered with their plans. The airport in St. Louis was closed so he had to proceed on to Kansas City and will fly back to St. Louis this afternoon. Then he an Shirley and Aunt Rose will drive to Georgia for a family reunion. He Went to Arkansas to one last year and was really looking forward to it. Pete called with his Saturday call. It's going to be 80 degrees out there today, not hot by Missouri standards. Chris and I had dinner twice this week. I think he really missed me during his vacation. Margaret is still staying at Stef's but gets homesick. That was a nice update from Brother Joe. I wish we'd get more like that. There were lots of storms but only rain, thunder and lightning here last night. Linda can stay with me until Wednesday and Goldman will get here.

Shaklee Scour Off

A couple of years ago we had to replace our electric stove top.  We chose a nice-looking white, sealed top new one which turned out the devil to clean.  We tried products recommended by the maker and stuff (Bar Keep's Friend) a woman at a local kitchen shop told us about.  They worked but required a lot of scrubbing followed by thorough rinsing to remove residue so that it would not burn into the top.

Sue's caregiver, Linda, is a Shaklee representative.  She told us about their Scour Off product, one made of all-natural ingredients, the main one cherry pits.  It works about a hundred times better than anything else we have tried.  If anyone is interested in this stuff, or other Shaklee products, e-mail Sue and she will provide Linda's contact info.

Happenings

I just wanted to update some current events while I have time. Rose took me to Dr. Hogan, my neurologist, on Tuesday.  The company that was providing my trial medicine decided to end the testing abruptly and, having won FDA approval, will put the medicine on the market in September.  Meanwhile, I no longer can get it, so Dr. Hogan rearranged my medications.  [We will decide in the Fall whether to try to get the new med again.  We do not know how much they will cost.]

Rose and I think the company has acted irresponsibly as seizure medications are critically important and should not be changed abruptly.  Dr. Hogan and the nurses who work in the clinic agree.  So, our feelings toward the company are very negative, especially since I have gone to a great deal of trouble for several years to take part in the study.  We were already angry because a few years ago the study coordinator told us the drug company would provide the meds at no cost to test subjects like me, should the FDA approve it.  Later, I was told they would not provide it.  Naturally, a new drug like this will be extremely costly when first introduced.

I go back to see Hogan on June 21st.

Linda and I are going to the lake Friday morning. She's staying with me until Wednesday when Goldman arrives.

More but breakfast is ready.

NEWS FROM JOE FELIN

Sue and Joe (Felin) exchanged newsy e-mails recently.  Here they are:



"Hello Joe,

Rose is over in Kansas and has an appointment with Pauline's guardian this afternoon.  She is also going to see Pauline.  I'll update the blog after her appointment.  The snag Margaret ran into in trying to arrange her burial in the Marshfield plot was that she needed an attorney.  Shirley has a niece who's a licensed attorney in Kansas and said she will help us.  More later.

Wish you would come up.  What color is your GMC?

Love. Pepe ["Pepe" has been Joe's nickname for Sue for 60+ years.  Long story behind it.]"


Joe's response:


"Sue, thanks for the News.

Rose always come through!  I doubt if Pauline has many visitors.

We made the "Cemetery Run" yesterday. (Sunday)  & noticed flowers were on the monuments at Pauline's family plot.

Unusual is the fact none were at our family plot until we added the ones we brought and took pictures  before and after, then sent them to Don & Vita. They always have the Marshfield Greenhouse set up a wreath at Mom & Dad's tombstone. Maybe I can e-mail some pictures later. Usually we make the trip on Memorial day itself but we went one day earlier this year.

The Turnbo Creek  Run portion of our trip was truncated as we first went to Fordland Cemetery, then Marshfield Cemetery, then Welch Cemetery with the idea of going through Northview and on to Shockley Ford (low water bridge) then Shockley School, our old farm. the former location of Anderson Rural School
and via Hix Hill RR Crossing to Interstate I 44, thence return to Springfield.  (No restaurant stop as we did not leave Springfield until about 1:30 P.M.)

The big change in our plans occurred when we arrived at Shockley Ford.  The Road was closed and the crossing bulldozed out.  We will be checking to  see what is taking place. Even though Webster County experienced some heave rains recently, Shockley Ford was never damaged severely so we feel it is undergoing some planned upgrades? After turning around at Copper Head Corner (Shockley Ford) we came back through Northview and on home to Springfield.

A two full page article in Sunday's News-Leader featured Martha Jean Andreatta-Myers four-level house.
They built it about 40 years ago and it is just south of Marshfield beyond where Bill Felin & family lived but on the west side of the hwy and aboutg 1/2 mile farther south at the top of the hill. View to the north overlooks Marshfield.  The White Oak Road (as we remember it)  has been changed and a new road builtrunning east-west from where the Myers house is located and it comes out on the old White Road adjacent to where the Ira Dillon-Lucien McDonald lanes were located. You might be able to pull up the NEWS-LEADER.com article on the WWW?

Sue, thanks  for the invite to the lake, but Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day are good days for me to avoid the lake. My new car's color is gray but looks more white when it is wet or after dark.

Bro Joe"

Joe's e-mail reminded us of Memorial Days when we were kids.  Mother always insisted we accompany her on visits to obscure cemeteries to visit the even more obscure graves of long-dead ancestry.  Now, we wish we had paid more attention.

News about Mary Pauline Austin (nee' Felin)

Shirley and I drove to Hutchinson, KS, on Friday for the funeral of her brother-in-law Saturday.  After the funeral I went to Great Bend to see Mary Pauline.  She is a resident in the Great Bend Health and Rehab Center, 1560 K-96 Highway Great Bend, KS 67530.  She did not recognize me.  The attendants said she had slipped in the past couple weeks.  The two aides that I talked with seemed genuinely fond of her.  They told me she often asks for Nadine (her long-dead twin sister) and can put together a string of curse words when riled.  They also told me she could be very funny.

Pauline has a guardian conservator, Art Jaske, a man appointed by the state social services.  Mr. Jaske met me at the Center where we talked for some time.  He knew quite a lot about Pauline, Ralph (Nadine's widower), and Pauline's parents, Uncle Bud (Edward) and Aunt Lois.  He told me that some years ago he had lived near them and admired the way they kept the yard and house.  Mr. Jaske is responsible for eleven people in his care.  He seems to be a very caring man.  He looks in on Pauline a couple times a week and said that until a few weeks ago, she knew who he was and what he did.

Mr. Jaske also told me some of the events of the last two and one-half years, since Ralph died and Pauline was moved to the Center.  Ralph and Pauline had wills, but no one found them before the six months limit on implementing them had expired.  As a result, Ralph's three nephews got half the proceeds of the sale of the house, Pauline got the other half, a grand total of $2300.  Ralph and Pauline had a woman who was supposed to be caring for them, I suppose running errands, shopping, etc.  No one knew the name of the person.  When neighbors hadn't seen either Ralph or Pauline for several days, they investigated and found a pretty dire situation.  Mr. Jaske said Pauline's credit card had a balance of $20,000 which he believed she had nothing to do with.  He, as guardian conservator, took care of the credit card issue, the sale of the home, and now is responsible for the on-going care of Pauline.

In our conversation Mr. Jaske explained that he had a good deal of experience in this line of work, beginning years ago because he had two Down Syndrome brothers he helped care for.  I told him about Lydia Orso and her wonderful wedding.  Turns out, he had seen the news report of the wedding on television.

One of the things I wanted to accomplish while in Great Bend was to insure that eventually Pauline's final resting place will be in the family plot in the Marshfield, MO, cemetery.  Mr. Jaske helped me arrange that.  He had already set aside a $2300 death benefit so the expenses of transportation and burial will be covered.  I have to contact the funeral home in Great Bend that has the burial policy and give them sufficient information to insure Pauline's eventual interment in Marshfield.  I will do that tomorrow.

I am posting a photo of Pauline.

En route to Great Bend, I stopped at the cemetery in St. John and found brother Bob's grave.  I could not find his son, Bobby's grave.  [Many of you probably remember that Bob and his family speak of trips to "Hutch" and Great Bend as if they were right up the road.  Believe me, they are quite a distance apart, as I discovered Saturday!]

adults at the lake for Memorial Day Weekend

kids at the lake Memorial Day weekend

Holiday Weekend

Just Beth and some of the kids are up this morning and they're playing with their computers. I believe they all type faster than I do. Doug took them on a long boat ride yesterday and Doug said the boat was running well. The kids also did a lot of swimming and playing with their computers. I'm not sure if Goldman knows how to post pictures on the Family Gazette. If not, we'll forward them to Rose and ask her to post them. Mad Dog cooked ribs and pork steaks on the grill for dinner last night. We're having hamburgers tonight. Brother Pete called yesterday so I knew it was Saturday. It was chilly in Idaho. Kelly and the boys were wild turkey hunting and were going to Pete and Janet's later. Janet is doing very well. For some reason, my computer won't let me make paragraphs unless Rose looks at it and does something so this may all run together. I asked Brother Joe to come this weekend up but haven't heard back from him. More people are up now so II'll quit for now.

Rose in Kansas

I just wanted to post this bit of information. Rose and Shirley are today in Kansas for Shirley's brother=in=law's funeral and while they were there Rose went to see Pauline. She didn't know her and only talks sometimes. She does still call for Nadine and is incoherent most of the time. She was in a wheelchair. While there, Rose met with her guardian and made arrangements for Pauline to be be buried in the family plot in Marshfield. Rose also went to the cemetery and found Brother Bob's grave but could not find Bobby's. I'll update more later.

Current Events

Tomorrow is the first day of the holiday weekend. Goldman and I (Sue) will leave for the lake as soon as he gets off school. We'll probably hit some traffic here in St. Louis county but should miss a lot of it.

I walked at least 2.48 miles yesterday and probably even more. My fitbit isn't working right so I wore mine and Rose's when I thought I was doing more than mine registered. I also did my 20 minutes on the exercycle.

 Stephanie and Dan's daughter-in-law, Nicole, who is their son Nathan's wife, graduated last weekend with a doctorate in pharmacology. Quite an accomplishment!   The family went to Kansas City for the ceremony. She has taken a position with Costco (where she has worked while in school) after several offers.

 My friend Liz and her husband Dave became grandparents for the first time this weekend.  Their new grandson's name is Brayden.  Liz and Dave haven't seen him yet since the new parents live in Montana. Liz is flying out to meet Brayden on Friday.  She sent some pictures and I think Rose is going to post them.   [Liz, Brick and I used to work together at GMAC.]

Shirley got some bad news late last night. Her brother-in-law passed away. He and her sister Estelle had been married 66 years. They live in Kansas, somewhere near Hutchinson.   Shirley and Rose are going to drive out for the services and will leave in the morning.

Brother Donald called me one day this week. He wasn't sure if any of his family would be at their place at the lake for the holiday because his grandsons are quite involved in sports.  He said it may be August before he and Vita can get there.

Exact Replica

Wanted to add these notes. It was French Onion Soup like the old Famous-Barr stores served. Linda used their recipe and it came out just like Famous-Barr and no one or any place else can make it so good. Rose and I had some after I got back. I did 1.9 miles and 20 minutes on the exercycle yesterday and needed the exercise after Linda's cooking.

Onion Soup. Second Attempt to post

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Sent with Genius Scan for iPhone.

Waiting for Memorial Day Weekend

Sunday morning and daylight and daytime has come. We're having our coffee and looking at our computers. Joe's update was wonderful and we would like more from other members of the family and other readers. One of our pasttimes is watching for humming birds. We're not very busy at that so I do exercising and Rose practices her guitar. Needless to say, I have lots of time on my hands.

 Goldman and I were going to go across the river to see Jack (the friend I worked with who sang "Amazing Grace" at Denny's funeral) who's in an extended care facility in Belleville.  When I couldn't get a hold of him, I finally called his daughter who told me he was just leaving a hospital in Alton where he had minor surgery.  He did not have his cell phone.   I left my number and hope he calls soon. I last talked to him on Mother's Day.

 Goldman and I will go down to the lake this Friday, leaving as soon as he gets out of school. Scott and the boys are coming from Louisville, also Friday but it's a long way. Beth is coming from Kansas City.  Doug and Suzanne and the kids will get there Friday evening, too. Groves will be there but has to leave Sunday.  Mad Dog will have the air conditioner turned on Friday if we need it.

I see Rose's photo of the two servings of Linda's onion soup (Famous-Barr recipe) did not get posted.  I'll ask her to try again.

Linda's Famous-Barr Recipe

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Sent with Genius Scan for iPhone.

Onion Soup - as good as FB!

Update from Brother Joe

Joe sent Sue the following e-mail with news about his family and his birthday:

"Subject: blog 5-17-13

Busy around here so I will give it my best shot to report the latest happenings.

 

Bittersweet 79th birthday as it was our daughter Beth's retirement party today at Ozark Technical Community College, also our son David's last day as an instructor at OTCC. He and another graduate of  Missouri University of Science and Technology, formerly the University of Missouri-Rolla, known as  one of the world's leading technological research universities, (right Bebe, Mark, et al*) have gone in business for themselves. Granddaughter Lydia came home for her mom's retirement party, then headed back to Liberty, MO for the graduation of some of her college friends. She will return home again this weekend.  Next year (2014) she will graduate.

 

Yesterday's was Beth's birthday, next week is her mom's birthday and June 6th is our other daughter Lisa's birthday. Lisa's husband jack still has his leg in a cast but is recovering on schedule.  His dad, a WWII vet, is in a retirement home. Maybe Lydia posted his picture on the blog during Christmas holidays?

 

My biggest birthday gift was "to me from me".  The new GMC Terrain is doing fine except all the new electrical gadgets are challenging.  Sticker shock hit me twice, first was the car cost, then the sales tax. Now I am going to buy a smart phone so I can use it in the new vehicle.  It also has on star but so did the van I traded off.  I never used on star.  Dave calls my new car a truck.

 

Another unexpected gift coupon was a free (up to $15.00) entree at Houlihans Restaurant.

 

The birthday cards and wishes are the best of all though!

 

Our latest volunteer at The Railroad Historical Museum is Brian Madden**.  He picked the two busiest days of the year for coming on board. He noticed a new ? painting on display.  It is of a Campbell 66 Truck line tractor/trailer and it looks like the artist is the same one that did the Marshfield Square paintings.  Further research continues.  We have what someone on the www dubbed the ggggf of the smart phone on display.  It is the telegraph key like originally used when the Morse code was state of the art.

 

Where I worked 36 years (TAMPER out of Columbia, S. C.) the service manager had a painting of an old cowboy, beard and all, and a notation.  "There is a hell of a lot they didn't tell me when I signed on here" Very timely for Brian and the museum also. 

 

The Springfield Cardinals Baseball team and also the St. Louis Cardinals both won games tonight, I think?

The Springfield Cardinals played in Arkansas.  Several of the former Springfield players are now full time players on the St. Louis Team.

 

goodnight all

Bro Joe"

*Joe is referring here to Bebe (nickname for Sabrina, daughter of Margaret and Norman) and Mark, Sue's stepson, who also graduated from the University of Missouri at Rolla, an engineering school.

**Brian Madden is our cousin, the second (of three) son of Curtis and Virginia Madden.  Curt was a brother (one of two) of our mother, Margaret Marie Madden Felin.

 

Joe's Birthday

It's Brother Joe's Birthday and he'd best give us a report of his celebrations. I'm at the lake but going back to St. Louis this afternoon. Linda and I have been here since Tuesday. Linda is a great friend and helper. I''ll update more later but wanted to wish Joe the Happy Birthday.

View from deck at Sunset--Lake of the Ozarks

Petunias

Lily

Lake Delight

Sue and Linda planted flowers today at the lake.

Lake Delight

Sue and Linda planted flowers today at the lake.

Shelly on Vacation

Lake

It's Tuesday morning, and Linda and I are going back to the lake and try to get there before noon.  Has been a while since I've been there.  The temperature is supposed to be - finally lake weather- hot. The forecast says there may be some rain but that's okay.

 I walked 1.78 miles and did 29 minutes on the exercycle yesterday.  I do the 20 minutes on the exercycle everyday but have had a cold so haven't been walking as much.  Feeling better now,  I'm going to take it up again.

Linda will be here very soon, so I'd best finish getting ready.

Fishing and the Guys

Rose is inserting a link to the article in the paper about the woman who stays with me at the lake some of the time and her family.  Rose's update will come first because I type so slowly.  Brother Joe came up to the lake one day while we were there and met Linda.   I'm in good hands.

I haven't been to the lake for a while, so I'm really looking forward to tomorrow.  Ten old fishing buddies used it this weekend, and they have had this annual fishing excursion for years. Some had been in the service, and most are now married and have children.  The boat did get fixed and returned.

Joe bought the GMC Terrain and Rose, the Toyota Prius C.  I think it was Pete who said they buy cars every 15 years whether they need one or not.  Pete had some advice in his Saturday morning call.   'If the guys aren't catching big fish down at the lake, use bigger hooks.'  He also wanted to know what Rose is going to do with the 'Company 'Car'.  She's going to let me and Goldman use it this summer.

I had to take a break and have breakfast before I finished this post. I've been talking to one of my old GMAC (now called ALLY} friend who is now working in their Chicago office.  It's Liz, and her husband is Dave. She can't retire yet so has to work in Chicago, and Dave is self employed in St. Louis. They have two sons. One and his better half are expecting a baby any day out in Montana and the other is getting married next Saturday. The two events could coincide.

MORE ABOUT THE WEDDING

Last month Sue, Shirley, and I were invited to a wonderful wedding, that of the daughter of Sue's caregiver, Linda Orso.  Local news channels covered the wedding, and we posted a link to the report earlier.  Now, a columnist for the Post-Dispatch has written about the event and about the families of the bride and groom.  We especially liked Linda's quote at the end of the article:

“I always tell parents that the initial diagnosis is like a death. You have to mourn the death of that dream baby, and then start to build new dreams for the baby you have.”  True about so many things in life!

Here is the link:  http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/columns/bill-mcclellan/mcclellan-an-unexpected-wedding-for-a-special-woman/article_563d811c-2055-5729-96ec-598149851643.html

HUMMING BIRD

The first humming bird appeared on May 1, Mother's birthday, and I forgot to post it but wanted to keep track of it for following years. We've had some beautiful weather these last few days. Scott and Brayden got back from their field trip on Wednesday and had good weather in Chicago, too.

 Chris and Shelly left at 4:30 this morning for their vacation in St. John.  Goldman, being the good friend that he is, got up that early to take them to the airport.  He probably went back to bed before having to go to school.

 Brother Joe bought a new GMC Terrain, and Rose is contemplating buying a Toyota Prius C.  Each of them buys a car about every 15 years whether they need to or not.  I talked to my old friend, Liz., (who I worked with back when it was GMAC and is now Ally).  She is working in Chicago and is expecting her first grandchild soon. Both the parents are chiropractors who live in Montana, and it's difficult for them to relocate. Liz's second son is getting married here about the same time. Liz was helpful with the General Motors sibling car discount information for Brother that I wasn't sure how to get for him.

Good News Again

Good news to post today. Margaret is finally out of the hospital.  Like Janet, she is having occupational and occupational therapies at home, but is is certainly relieved to be out out of the hospital. She is staying with her daughter Stephanie temporarily. Her cell phone number 636-577-1809.  She left the hospital on Tuesday.

 Scott and Brayden get back from their Chicago field trip this evening.  Scott will probably be happy to be home while Brayden is probably dreading school tomorrow.

 John and Jana, I'd like pictures of the girls like the one of Brayden at the Sears Tower and more.  Have a wonderful trip!

Brayden in Sears Tower Viewing Deck

Scott and Brayden are on his class trip to Chicago this week.

Chicago

Thank you, Jana, for that lovely update from Kansas. Rose is cooking breakfast as I type. Scott and Brayden are on a school bus en route to Chicago for a 3 day field trip. Scott is a little old for field trips but Brayden is a more 'field trip' sort. The one thing Scott wanted to do was go to Wrigley Field and see the Cardinals play the Cubs. This outing wasn't on their agenda and the group had to stay together so, though they may get to see Wrigley Field, they won't get to see them live. Scott better send some pictures of the sights they see.

Hello again from Kansas City.  Jana and I wanted to check in since it has been a while.  We have had a busy couple of months.

Ellie turned 7 on March 30th and we had a party for her at Emerald City Gymnastics.  We had 14 of her classmates there running around screaming and having a good time.  She got a lot of good loot and both her and Kaitlyn were able to burn off enough energy to sleep like stones that night. 

A few weeks after that, we had our family party at our house. I stayed up all night smoking a pork shoulder for dinner and I must say, "Nailed it."  Tricia, Karen and the boys, and my family were all able to make it and the girls got a ton of great stuff and had a wonderful day.  One of the girls' presents was a trip to Great Wolf Lodge which we took that following Monday.  We rode waterslides and swam in the pools there for 9 solid hours.  The girls really enjoyed it and I must say that Jana and I enjoyed it as well.



Last Saturday, Jana and I ran in a Warrior Dash with a group of our friends.  If you aren't familiar with that, it is a 3 mile race where you have to complete obstacles like climbing over cargo nets, crawling through the mud under barb wire, and jumping over fire.  It was a balmy 55 degrees and overcast but we had a blast and I even got third in the beard contest.  The next day, to celebrated my Dad's birthday, we went to the Royals game.  We got to the stadium early and tailgated for a while before heading in to the game.  All of the kid activities at the park were free so the kids had a good time and the Royals won 9-0 so the adults had a good time as well.

Kaitlyn turned 4 on May 4th so we had another party for her at Ernie Miller Nature Center.  They had a fun animal show where they got to see an owl, a ferret, and a snake.  The kids loved the show and had once again, Kaitlyn got a bunch of great presents from her friends.  Now comes the hard part of finding room for all of this stuff.  Jana and I decided that we may need to purge the system a little bit to make some space.

Finally, Ellie is playing soccer and softball this spring.  She is really enjoying both and has improved a lot in the past year.  Kaitlyn will be playing T-ball for the first time.  This will be her intro into organized sports so we are excited to see how she does.  We suspect she will stand in the dug-out and be too shy to actually play!

We are looking forward to our trip to Chicago over Memorial Day weekend.  We bought our train tickets and the girls are excited since they've never rode on a train like that before.  We just hope the weather is nice!

John, Jana, Ellie, and Kaitlyn

Regular Saturday Morning

Saturday morning and I'm waiting for Pete's call.

 Rose wanted to keep record of the date the first humming bird appeared this year.  It was May 1. That was also Mother's birthday in1906.  Donald called me that morning as I was looking at a collage of photos of her I have at the lake house.

 Chris and I went down to the LakeTuesday afternoon, and Mad Dog had dinner cooking when we arrived. Chris had to attend some meetings so Mad Dog cooked again Wednesday evening.  I like baseball but hockey is a foreign sport to me. One evening the guys switched back and forth between the two sports. I prefer baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals.   Chris and I came home Thursday.

Janet's Home

I just posted yesterday but I had some great news to post and wanted to tell everyone what happened yesterday evening. I called Idaho Falls and Janet answered the phone. She was HOME. After that long siege in the hospital, she was finally HOME. She is truly a remarkable lady. She agreed, all our prayers have been listened to. She doesn't usually like to be mentioned in the Family Gazette but this had to be announced.

Tuesday Morning

Now it's just Tuesday morning But will update before Chris picks me up for a few days at the lake. I had an email from Sandi who reported that her mother is home now. Sandi said she's having some trouble talking but Kay is staying with her which makes a pleasant companionship. We used to call Kay 'Kay-Kay'. She's still Kay-Kay to me. Rose and Shirley are still ailing and I'm not sure if they're going to see clients today. Chris and I will be at the lake until Thursday and I'm hoping they call and tell me what's wrong with the boat and that it's something minor.

Monday Morning

Monday morning and I'm the only one up so far. Shirley and Rose have both felt 'wretched' with some bug the past few days so I'm trying to be really quiet. Rose did get the humming bird feeders hung last week, but so far we haven't seen any humming birds.

 Goldman took me for a pedicure Saturday afternoon and talked to Scott while I was having it done. Scott told Goldman he was  glad it was Goldman instead of him.

 Chris and I went to see Margaret Saturday evening and got to see Sabrina, Dave, and Alex too. We then went to JJ's for dinner. Some of old St. Charles is still there but much has changed. Pio's is still there but was crowded.

 I have an appointment today with my primary care physician and Chris is going to take me since Rose feels so wretched. The appointment is just routine. I feel good.

Idaho News

There's some good news to post today. Pete called with his usual Saturday call and had something exciting for me to report.   Janet gets to come home from the hospital next Tuesday.  The whole family is overjoyed and, of course no one more than Janet.  Pete says she gets great therapy and care and has made lots of friends in her stay there; nevertheless, there's no place like home. Donald and Vita were visiting and had to leave yesterday.

Goldman is going to pick me up and take me to have a pedicure. I got two new pairs of sandals for my birthday and, now that summer is almost here, I can put these shoes on BY MYSELF.

My caregiver, Linda, is extra special. We're really working well together, and we'll post some pictures later.

Sue (AKA Martha)

Margaret and Yadi

A very happy reunion!

Sue and Joe

Lunch at Baxter's at Lake of the Ozarks

Lunch with Brother Joe

Brother Joe came up from Springfield to go out to lunch. He and Linda had never met and we had a lovely lunch at a place called Baxter's. He couldn't stay long but I'm hoping he comes back soon and often.

 Rose went to see Margaret today and she continues to improve. She's having therapy on a regular basis. I talked to Pete, and Janet is also improving.  She's a true amazement.  Donald and Vita are in Idaho Falls but have to leave tomorrow. Pete said it's cold out there but I almost didn't need my sweatshirt here today.

 There have been lots of fishing boats on the lake, and the boat repair company picked up the boat yesterday but haven't told me what's wrong with it. Linda and I have to go back to St. Louis tomorrow but it's been a really good week.

Back to the Lake

I'm back at the lake this morning after a lovely birthday. I heard from all my siblings except Donald but that's probably because he and Vita were en route to Idaho Falls. Linda brought me down and then took me out to dinner at Ruthie D's. She is a true delight. She's a great companion, very helpful, and has become a real friend. We both have our computers set up here at the table, and I'm on mine early this morning.

 It's cloudy and overcast here this morning and I'm hoping it clears up. There's something wrong with the boat. When the guy dewinterized it, he noticed a funny noise. I don't have a trailer so he has to take it out on his trailer to check it out. I consulted Doug and he agreed we should do it. The same guy has winterized it for several years so Doug and I both trust him. It's been raining a lot down here so the boat is still here.  I'm hoping it clears up today and the mechanic finds a minor problem.

 We have to go back to St. Louis on Friday.  Rose just called with her morning daily call. I'll finish this later, hopefully when they come get the boat and fix it.

Shelly and Chris

BIRTHDAY DINNER FOR SHELLY

Beth and Scott's Engagement

It's early Sunday morning, but Scott and Brayden are already on their way to Louisville. They can keep a secret--really. I asked Brayden if he knew and didn't tell me, but he insisted he didn't know earlier or 'maybe' would have told me. Beth has already turned in her resignation I knew she was going to spend the summer in Louisville, but this October 5 wedding date came as a somewhat surprise, but a very happy one.  She and Scott are going to have the wedding at the lake house. Beth is a true sweetheart. She's thoughtful, kind, talented, loving, and has many other wonderful attributes I'm not mentioning.

We're celebrating Shelly's birthday tonight. I'm not sure who all is going to be there.   It's a dinner at a place called Fleming's.  Scott and Brayden already left today to get home for a soccer game so can't attend.  Shelly always does so much to help others celebrate that it's a pleasure to celebrate her.

 We did hear from the Fellin family.  Maudie is doing much better and may be able to leave the extended care facility soon. Karen Kay will then come stay with her until the end of May, and, after that, Mike and family will stay with her at the farm, if necessary.  

We always like pictures to post on the Family Gazette.

Wedding Announcement

Home Again

Saturday morning and I'm waiting for Pete's call. Scott and Brayden drove me back from Louisville last night and dropped us off with Rose and Shirley. They didn't get to see much of Scott, who left right away to meet Beth, as long as they had Brayden. They can only stay until tomorrow. Brayden has a soccer game. With soccer and baseball and work, Scott keeps busy. Margaret is back at Delmar Gardens. She is getting lots of therapy but can't put much weight on that one leg. Correct me if I'm wrong on that, Margaret. I don't hear much from you and would also love an update from the FeLLins.

Louisville Visit

I've been in Louisville since Sunday morning after going to that beautiful wedding on Saturday Linda has become a true friend and Rose and Shirley and I were all honored to be invited. Linda has become a true friend. Chris and Goldman took me to the airport Sunday morning. They had to get up early to do it, though they didn't seem to mind. Scott and Brayden were waiting for me when I arrived. Brayden had a soccer game Sunday afternoon and baseball practice. He had baseball practice again Monday afternoon and a game last night. Last night he was Star of the Game. He hit a triple with the bases loaded and then scored himself. Needless to say, his team won the game. Jalen and a friend came to the soccer game Sunday and then came over and visited for a while. It's really true what Rose says about these Apple computers. I'm using Brayden's while I'm here. Though it's, I thought, exactly like mine, I was having trouble communicating yesterday. He came in from school and showed me what I was doing wrong. I'm using his Apple right now. Scott and Brayden are going to drive me back to St. Louis Friday evening. I hope Jalen can go with us. Beth is driving over from Kansas City to meet them. I'm sorry it will be such a short visit.

Spring in our Village

I noticed Gazelle.com has advertised on this blog.  Ever since I owned my first Apple iPhone, I have been sold on Apple products, but they are very expensive.  Nephew Chris put me onto a website, Gazelle.com, which buys used electronic products.  I have sold Gazelle a number of my used Apple products, enough so it has become a game for me.  Gazelle provides you a bid on your obsolete item, good for 30 days.  If you decide to sell it to them, they send you shipping papers, even a box if you need it.  (I always keep all the original packing materials.)  You send in your item and wait for their evaluation.  If the phone or whatever has scratches or other deficits, Gazelle will mark down their original bid by $10 or so.  It has become a contest.  I keep everything pristine, and when I buy a newer, more up-to-date replacement, I sell my old one to Gazelle.  Lately, they haven't found any flaw that would warrant a mark-down.  :)

Because of outlets that Gazelle has for older electronics, the price they offer is usually sufficient for me to purchase the latest edition.  In this way, I have had every new iPhone version, and it hasn't cost me much at all.  It helps that two other folk, Shirley and Sue, on our ATT account don't care about upgrades so there is always one available for me.

Gazell.com     A good place to cash in on your older electronic items.  My MacBook Pro is four years old this month.  It may go the way of Gazelle soon.

A BEAUTIFUL WEDDING

Sue, Shirley, and I were invited to attend the wedding of Linda and Joe Orso's daughter Lydia yesterday at St. Joseph's Church in Clayton. [ Linda is Sue's part-time caregiver at the lake.]  It was truly an inspirational event.  The wedding mass was followed by a lovely reception and dinner at the Forest Park Golf Club.  All three of us enjoyed every moment of the day.  Here is a Channel Two video link that gives a more complete story and explains why the engagement and wedding is such a blessed event for these two wonderful young folk and all of us fortunate enough to be invited:  http://fox2now.com/2013/04/14/clayton-wedding-day-is-a-dream-come-true/

Linda makes this statement in the video:  “Coming into it you think, well that isn’t going to happen.  To see it happen I think makes everyone feel like, ‘Hey, maybe some things I thought couldn`t happen, can happen’.  I think it`s the reality that the possibilities are still there."  So very true!

Sue met Linda through her (and our) hairdresser, Stephanie.  The bridal party all assembled at David's Salon in Clayton yesterday morning where Stephanie did everyone's hair.  Stephanie is also a very special beautiful person.  You see her at the beginning of the video clip.

Sue and Chris

Off to airport for flight to Louisville

EVENTS

Just talked to Pete so I knew it was Saturday from his call. Merri and Nancy were both there and Pete had his speaker phone on so the four of us talked. IIt's a little chilly here in Missouri this morning but I guess just plain cold in Idaho. I've been riding the exercycle 20 minutes, doing 30 deep knee bends each day. I've been walking as much and as often as I can every day. Goldman came over and walked with me one evening but it started raining and we didn't walk very far. I'm going to Louisville tomorrow and may not take a handicap hanger. Scott doesn't like to use it and always encourages me to get the exercise. Shelly had a birthday on the 11th. As is my custom, I won't post her age. I think they were going to go to the Cardinal game but Chris had to go to Poplar Bluff and that ruined that evening. I just tried to call Margaret with no answer. I'll keep calling. Rose and Shirley and I are going to Linda and Joe's daughter, Lydia, wedding this afternoon and then to the reception this evening. Tom and Lydia are a wonderful couple and may they have a beautiful life. Linda is my part time companion at the lake and has become a close friend. The two of us will go back for a few days on the 23rd. I did finally talk to Margaret. She was eager to be out of that place and be home. She is getting physical therapy and was setting up in a wheelchair when we talked. I'm flying over to spend several days with Scott and Brayden and Jalen, too, I hope. Scott will drive me back late Friday. Beth will meet him here from Kansas City. This Sunday my flight leaves at 8:30 so I have to be at the airport at 7:30. Goldman and Chris have arranged to take me. It's not far for Goldman but Chris has to arise much earlier and has also volunteered to bring breakfast. I hope he sets his alarm.

Short Stay in Hospital

After I finished the IVIG and was packed - or at least I thought I was all packed - Chris picked me up from Barnes Hospital and we went to JJ's in St. Charles for supper before going to see Sister Margaret. Catrina was also visiting and the four of us told stories of the past and reminisced. I was ready to leave the hospital and, as I said earlier, had thought I was all packed. After I got home and was going to charge my cell phone, I found I had left my charger. Rose and I found one that works here so weren't too concerned. This morning my laptop quit and needed to be plugged in. I may have some of the terminology wrong in describing the situation. I had also forgotten the charger for it. These things cost $80.00. We thought we were going to have to go get it. We called Barnes-Jewish to make sure they had them and they did and offered to mail them to me. That was okay with me but a little while later they called and said they were bringing them by courier. The courier was here within two hours. Rose has now forgiven the hospital after the Monday incident. So have I. The weather has been springlike but may get cool again in the next couple days.

IVIG

I'm at Barnes Jewish Hospital this morning for my periodic IVIC overnight stay. Rose brought me down here and when I signed in, Rose and I agreed the woman at the desk had a rather sullen attitude. After waiting 45 minutes to be taken to my room, Rose went to the front desk and inquired. She was told the staff would be there to get me momentarily. We waited a while longer and Rose went back to see what the holdup was. She found out the woman with the attitude hadn't even bothered to register me. Needless to say, Rose was especially upset. She needed to be home because the furnace people were coming and Shirley had a client. She wanted to stay with me until she got my computer set up. Rose registered a formal complaint about the employee. The hospital just sent me flowers and someone from personnel came and apologized for her behavior. Rose seldom gets so angry. The treatment I usually get here is excellent.

Rose and I went to Delmar Gardens to see Margaret yesterday. That Rehabilitation Center is certainly a beautiful place. Margaret gets wonderful attention and care and has lots of company. Chris and I are going back to see her tomorrow night, and I hope Shelly can come too.

Margaret and Yadi

Chris

Brayden in his soccer uniform

NEWS FROM JOE FELIN FAMILY

Brother Joe (AKA Joe Felin) sent this update to Sue:

"Read your today's  blog and appreciate your keeping us informed.

 

Not to be outdone by other family members, we are spending time on the so-called "Medical Mile" in Springfield.

 

Lisa's husband Jack fell  Wednesday in their house and ended up in the emergency room followed by surgery Thursday at Mercy Hospital ( formerly St. Johns) .   He ruptured the tendon above his knee  and will be hobbling for several months. I guess he will be on crutches as I heard the Dr. say he will have to not have any weight on it for a couple of weeks and will be healing for as long as 6-8 weeks. He is back home now.

 

Jack's Dad, a WWII veteran, had a stroke and is still in the same hospital Jack was in.  He is recuperating nicely, per Lisa.

 

Our neighbors since 1969 recently moved to a retirement home and she was/is in the hospital with pneumonia. Seven years ago now (April 2006) , I was recuperating from the quadruple bypass and she was in the hospital across the hallway.  This was Cox South Hospital.  I am still volunteering on Tuesday at the hospital (Wheeler Heart & Vascular Center) and attending arthrites foundation exercises at the Meyer Center once or twice a week at other times.

 

Not to be outdone, our dog (really granddaughter Lydia's dog that stays at our house) is limping again. She had a $1,000 plus  operation last year on one of her hind legs.

 

Better news. Had lunch yesterday with Brian Madden. He seems to be doing well with his schooling and is

getting more involved in local politics. I think as local precinct chairman or person?

 

Worse News: Income tax time. Hope sister Rose is not suffering too badly during this taxing time!  I have ours ready to take to the bean counter this afternoon.

 

Bro Joe"

 

NEWS

Pete has called this morning so we knew it was Saturday. Janet hasn't been feeling very well. The doctors moved Margaret to Delmar Gardens at 7069 South Outer Road, O'Fallon, MO 63368 yesterday. This is a rehabilitation center where she's been before, quite some time ago. We're sure she would appreciate and enjoy cards.  Rose and I are going out to visit with her after while. We're waiting on further news about Maudie Ree. I'm having an IVIG on Monday and have to stay in the hospital overnight, but this is just a periodic routine treatment.  Chris took me out to dinner last night - to Applebees.  Brother Donald called me yesterday. He and Vita are going to France for a couple of weeks. Rather a coincidence, Mark and Karen are going there on Monday. Rose has been diligently practicing her guitar and taking her weekly lesson. We don't hear much out of Brother Joe. We need an update.

Brayden waiting for his flight to Louisville

MARGARET

Margaret had trouble walking on Sunday because of a problem with her knee.  She ended up in the emergency room, and from there was admitted to the hospital.  She is at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Peters, (10 Memorial Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376) in Room 2281.  She is undergoing a multitude of tests, and her children and grandchildren are hovering over her.

Brayden

Brayden

Jalen and Brayden

Oliver, Brayden, and Eli

Spokane

Maudie Ree, who is brother Bernie's widow, is in the hospital and has been since Wednesday.  Her health issue has been traced to irregular heart beat, and she is improving every day.  She can't have flowers but loves cards and prayers.  She is at Sacred Heart Hospital, 101 W. 8th St., Spokane, WA.  99204, Room 241.   We will keep the Gazette updated as we hear.

HAPPY EASTER

Rose did a great job on Margaret's birthday pictures and movie.  I'm sure, as we used to say back when, 'a good time was had by all'.  Goldman and I got back Friday after a great spring week.  Except for Thursday, the weather wasn't spring like.  The snow has finally melted.

Scott and Jalen and Brayden came over from Louisville yesterday after baseball practice and a soccer game for Brayden.  Scott spent the night at Goldman's but we got to keep the boys.  Scott and Jalen had to go back today but we get to have Brayden until Wednesday.  Chris is going to take him to work with him on Wednesday.

Rose shared "MARGARET'S BIRTHDAY.m4v" with you

Rose used Dropbox to share a video with you! Click here to view the video. © 2013 Dropbox

Margaret's Birthday Celebration

Hi,

Here's a link to "MARGARET'S BIRTHDAY.m4v" in Dropbox:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/m3mggj9jtkvzqx7/MARGARET%27S%20BIRTHDAY.m4v

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARGARET!

A dozen of close family and friends surprised Margaret Ann this evening with a celebration at Macaroni Grill in St. Peters.  Our waiter happened to be a friend of Randy's so he gave us the best of care.  A chef, George, came out and serenaded Margaret in wonderful voice both with "Happy Birthday" and some Italian.  It was a wonderful occasion, laughter and good cheer.  

Josiah who treated us so well at Margaret's Birthday Dinner at Macaroni Grill in St. Peters

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Sabrina at her Mother's Birthday Celebration

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Amanda and her fiancé Tyler at Margaret's Birthday Dinner

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Catrina at her mother's birthday celebration

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Lynn and Randy celebrating with Margaret

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Margaret at her Birthday Celebration March 28, 2013

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Erica and her Mother Lynn

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Margaret and her Granddaughter Amanda

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Happy Birthday, Margaret

First thing I want to say this morning is 'Happy Birthday, Margaret'.  I'm sure Rose and Sabrina will fill the Family Gazette in on the details and some pictures.  I talked to Joe this week and he and I both were never which date was Bob's and which was Margaret's but now I have hers marked on my calendar.

Chris and I went back  to St. Louis very early Monday morning after the blizzard we had here at the lake Sunday.  Goldman is on spring break so we came back on Tuesday.  It's been cold out still nice to be here.  It looks like the snow is finally melting.  There haven' been many boats out.

I talked to Leslie, my old neighbor in Springfield, this morning.  One son, Jeff, is at Ft. Lewis and has two more years in the service.  Chase is home but going back to the east coast tomorrow.  Sam is quitting his job at Bass Pro Shop so Leslie believes they can come see me.  Sam loves to fish.

Goldman and I are going to interview a local woman today who may work out and can fill in when Goldman or Linda can't.

Snow!

Ten and one-half inches.

Anticipating Summer

It' s colder than the previous entry but surely it will warm up soon.  Goldman took me to dinner last night and we made our summer arrangements.  With Linda's filling in and company helping me our, I should be able to stay most of the summer.  Goldman says he is already planning some new menus.  He and I are going down Tuesday for most of the week.  It's his spring break.

Chris and I are going down tomorrow evening.  I have to see the eye doctor Monday and Goldman can't leave Monday because it's Passover.  Chris and Shelly had me to their house for dinner Tuesday.  Three of Shelly's little cousins were there but I got to wear the crown for cleaning up my plate.  Shelly made a delicious meal.

Almost Spring

Spring will be here day after tomorrow but it's certainly doesn't seem like that outside.  Sunday wasn't bad so Rose walked outside and Chris and I walked 2.5 miles at Forest Park and I did over a mile yesterday without leaving the house.  I may not do as much today.  Chris is picking me up after work and he and Shelly are having me come for dinner, and besides it's cold outside.

Rose and I often find the Family Gazette useful for reflecting back and settling differences.  This year it will be Goldman's Spring Break next week and the two of us will spend most of it at the lake.  Chris is going with me on Friday but I have an eye doctor appointment Monday so will go back down with Goldman.  Mad Dog has stayed with his Dad since the surgery and his Dad is doing pretty well. per Mad Dog.

Regular Saturday

Saturday morning and I'm expecting Brother Pete's call, though it's much earlier in Idaho.  The pictures of Ryan and John were great.  Thank you, Kelly.  Send more.   Rose is reading on her computer but I haven't heard Shirley stir yet.

Rose is still taking her guitar lessons and keeps up with the practice.  Now that the weather is a bit better on some days, Chris comes by and walks with me in Forest Park.  We went to Applebee's after our walk again this week.  He's also taking me shopping for some things for the lake sometime today.

Chris

Southwest Missouri

That was great having news and pictures from Idaho and now we have some updates from Southwest Missouri.  Brother Joe and Brian had lunch last Friday.  He is doing well in school and seems very happy.  Aunt Virginia is about the same, sleeps a lot and has some good days along with some bad days, quoting Brian.   Lisa is in Columbus, OH this week and was  in Baltimore last weekend.   Lydia will be on spring break next week and will be coming home tomorrow.

Beth has been in Louisville for spring break this week and has to go back to Kansas City today.  Mad Dog's dad has to have surgery today and we're all praying for him.  I may not get to go to the lake this weekend but Chris told me he can go next weekend.

Ryan and John

"Hello Aunt Sue,
This is John taking on the identity of Steve Jobs for a living wax museum 
project at school. He had to research, make a life time line, write a report and 
speech. Each student had a little booth and when you push the little red button 
on their poster they gave the whole life story. Steve Jobs is one of his heros. 
I'll send a couple more of him and Ryan but for some reason I can't get more 
than one photo at a time to post. Hope all is good with everyone and spring is 
on the way.
Love, Kel

It's me again. This is Ryan at one of his ski races. He took 3rd place valley 
wide for the season out of all the junior highs in town."

We are always happy to post news about our far-flung family!  These two boys, Ryan and John, are grandsons of Brother Pete and Janet, sons of Kelly.  Kelly and his family live in Boise, Idaho.

Idaho

Have some news from the Idaho side of the family but I'm still waiting for pictures to post.  Pete had told me on Saturday that John, one of Kelly's sons, had dressed up like Steve Jobs and given a speech before a computer class.  Rose, Shirley and I are Apple fans though they are much more competent than I am.  Kelly's other boy, Ryan. played his saxophone in a solo fest and took third place in a ski race out of a 180 junior high boys.  Both boys play soccer and football and ski and fish.  They are both straight A students.  We need some pictures.

Goldman took me over to see Jack yesterday evening.  Remember, he's the one I worked with at Midwest Recovery.  He sang Amazing Grace at Denny's funeral.  He is in an extended care facility over in Illinois.  He called to thank me for coming after I left.  I'll try to go more often.

Happy 17th Anniversary

I'm going to have a short update simply because I don't have much to tell.  Beth started  her Spring Break yesterday and is spending most of the week in Louisville.  I believe Scott got his new computer set up though I was no help.  Rose and Chris know much more about this sort of thing than I do and helped him some.

Pete called this morning so I knew it was Saturday.  It was cold in Idaho [20 degrees] but supposed to warm up some.  Will Spring ever come?  It's not that cold here but certainly not hot yet.

Shelly is going to pick me up when she gets off work and we're going out to eat.  Chris is on call and may join us if hr doesn't get summoned in to work.  Today is Rose and Shirley's 17th anniversary and they are going out for a elegant dinner at Brio's.  It's a really elegant restaurant they only go to on special occasions.

Home Again

Now I'm back in St. Louis and so are Rose and Shirley.  It was a chilly weekend at the lake but I stayed inside.  Chris took me to Longhorn Steakhouse for dinner after I got back on Sunday.  I guess it's a chain because I've heard other things about them since then.  The food was great and atmosphere was pleasant.

Rose had her guitar lesson yesterday and usual clients.  Scott had ordered a new computer which came yesterday and he and Chris and Rose spent all evening on the phone getting whatever had to be done to convert the info from the old to the new.  Brayden knows more about computers than I do but I know enough to email and blog and do my banking.

Shelly got back from Colorado yesterday evening.  I think she and her friends skied yesterday and I'm not sure if she had to work today.  Please send some pictures.

Whooping Crone

Back to Missouri

I'm back at the lake this morning after my week in Louisville.  My flight was a few minutes early but Goldman was there waiting for me.  We left immediately for the lake and Mad Dog had shoveled the driveway and had a fire burning in the fireplace.  He had picked up groceries for breakfast,too.  There was quite a bit of snow but not nearly as much as Kansas City got.  Donald called me and said he and Vita were going there for one of the grandson's birthday and Julie had told him they had 2 feet in some places.

Pete hasn't called yet.  Rose and Shirley got back from Florida last night shortly after my flight got to St. Louis.  She's already busy today and tomorrow.  She's 'hit the ground running' as we've heard.  Goldman and I have to go back tomorrow though I already don't want to.

Chris fixed me up with Netflix and Amazon.  Scott doesn't have Amazon but Braydon taught me a lot about Netflix.

Pete must be sleeping in.   I just talked to him.  He did sleep in.  More later.