June 30, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

I went to see Dr. Kirk, who did my cataract surgery several years ago.  My vision was 20/20.  He was very pleased with how well everything checked out, and so was I.  I still have some problem with dryness in my eyes.  He suggested a new kind of ointment for me to use at bedtime.

On the way home, we went by Arby’s for lunch to take home.  While we ate, we watched an old TV episode of Maverick.  James Garner is one of our favorite actors.

Matthew’s closet was piled high with stuff, so I drug it all out today and sorted things.  There were a number of bath towels, blankets, and a bed roll in with everything else.  Michelle said we would need all of those things when we go camping at Grand Lake in August.  So they were set aside to be washed.  There were also two bags of clothes to take to Habitat for Humanity.

It was hot again today, so I spent part of the afternoon resting and reading in front of a fan.  I was nearly asleep when Bill came in and asked if I wanted some watermelon.  I chose watermelon over a nap!

June 29, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

The “King of the Mouse Catchers” reign may have come to an end.  It has been several days since the “capture” of Jerry #9.

Chef Bill fixed a good Sunday morning breakfast. Not long afterwards, Meredith and Joey came for a visit.  They had walked over to get Max and take him back home with them.  As they walked down the street, one on each side of Meredith, both dogs’ tails were wagging in unison.  Happy campers, all the way around!  A few minutes later, Lori called to tell me about a great sale at Michaels.  She made a real score on a certain type of yarn.  She was very excited and so was I.  It was a good morning!

This was a very warm day.  We had the air conditioner on for most of the day.  We decided that ice cream at Sam’s Club might be a really good idea...and it was!  Before returning home, Bill kindly took me to Joanne Fabrics.  He’s such a good guy!

Meredith and Dwaine had invited us for a barbecue tonight.  We ate in their backyard which overlooks Boyd Lake.  It was a very pleasant time.  And wonderful food.

June 28, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Meredith, Michelle, and I went grocery shopping today.  Sprouts in Fort Collins had some good specials on.  The store was very busy, but we were able to make it through the crowd without too much trouble.

By the time we finished shopping at Sprouts and eating lunch, it was time to get back to our grocery shopping at King Sooper.  

We also made stops at PetSmart and Pouter Pet Store which has just opened a store in Loveland, a short distance from Michelle’s house.  Until today, they would have to go to Ft. Collins to the Pouter store there.  Both girls are very glad to have the new location so close to home.

Brent called this afternoon to tell us he had bought a new car...a Subaru Outback.  He had been looking at used ones which were just about the same price as a new one.  Bill had looked in this area for used ones and found out the same as Brent had found in Mississippi.  And the good thing is, Willie fits in the back.  They all four will be heading to Colorado soon.

After we finished talking to Brent, Bill said we should go to the Loveland Subaru dealer to see what he got.  So off we went.  We both feel he made a very good choice.

I wanted a picture of Brent’s new car so soon I got a text...from Amy.  She not only sent a picture of Brent and his Subaru, but next to it was the new Honda CRV that she and Mike bought a couple of weeks ago.  She said they are now all in the “New Car Payment Club.”

Michelle grilled hamburgers, made cole slaw, and French fries for dinner and we all ate out on the patio.  It was a nice evening!

June 27, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Today wasn’t as warm as the last couple of days have been.  Bill and the boys worked on the front yard, getting the clods of dirt broken up and smoothed out.  They also attacked weeds that have grown again since it was rotor tilled several weeks ago.  As soon as Ron checks the new sprinkler system they’ve installed, the yard will be ready to seed.  Yippy, Skippy!  Grass is good... some kinds, anyway!

This afternoon, I spent at Meredith’s.  She was working from home, so I dog sat.  We had some thunder and Hapa was so scared.  I am her protector.  We sat together on the sofa for a long time.  I love those times when she needs my reassurance.  Joey was never far away, but thunder doesn’t seem to faze him.

Bill came for dinner.  As usual, we had an enjoyable time visiting.  Dinner was Mexican food, so after everyone had eaten, Meredith and I made sopapillas.  They were yummy, drizzled with honey.  Happy, happy tummies!

June 26, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

The Jerry count is still at #9.  Hm-m-m-m-m!

It was a “stay at home” day for us.  Bill did some jobs for Michelle and then worked on our cabinets.  He is doing some refinishing.  It has needed to be done for a while.  

I did some “painting” today, also...on my fingernails!  It is a job for me because I am shaky, but they looked OK when I finished.  I shouldn’t have to do them again for about three weeks.

After Michelle finished work today, she and I went to the shop where we had our glass fusion class.  Our creations had to be fired two separate times.  They weren’t ready yet and didn’t give us any idea when we could pick them up.  Shucks!

We went to get pizza for dinner.  By 8:00 tonight, the temperature had cooled down enough to make for pleasant walking.  I did a better job tonight than last night.  I certainly lack energy these days.

Lori called tonight.  She had returned from her trip, and reported that they had a very good time.  She’ll bring pictures when she and Michael come to Colorado in just a few weeks.  They were in a remote part of El Salvador and didn’t have Internet.  Natalia was nervous about not being able to have contact with her mother.  I told Lori I thought everything must be OK, because I hadn’t seen her picture on the national news!

June 25, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

This morning, Jerry #9 was in the trap.  It was a tiny one.  I wonder if it has anymore siblings under the patio?!

I sat at my desk today and caught up on desk work.  With that out of the way, I started working on a writing project I haven’t worked on since I got sick.  It went well until it was time to go into the house to help Michelle make sopapillas.

Some of us ate dinner at 6:00, with sopapillas served hot at 6:30.  Others just ate a few sopapillas, and went off to football and track practice.  Matthew ate a bite of one sopapillas with cinnamon sugar and another one with honey.  After that, he said he only wanted to eat bananas, so I guess after three of those, he was full.

Connor liked the sopapillas and promised to eat the rest of them when he got home.  We had some of the dough left and he thought they would be good for breakfast.  That sounds like a good idea to me, too.

We went for an evening walk.  Max (I call him “Tippy” because the very tips of his ears tip forward.  It is really cute.) loves to go on walks and is getting better at walking on a leash.  Matthew has been working with him this week.

June 24, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Tonight, Bill and I were in charge of dinner.  Chef Bill was making his famous meat loaf.  I was making scalloped potatoes.  We went to Walmart for all of the ingredients, plus French bread and broccoli.

We got home in time for lunch and then afternoon naps.  I am still lacking energy since my days of no nourishment last week, so a nap has become very important for me.

Dinner was a big success.  Meredith and the pups came.  Dwaine was in class and had a lab, I think.  He is really dedicated to studying hard and goes to as many lab sessions as he can.

We were able to eat out on the patio again...until a storm blew in and we were “chased” inside.  When it was time for our evening walk, the weather was still “iffy” so Bill and I stayed home.  We may be chickens, but we were dry chickens!

June 23, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Big news flash!  Jerry #8 succumbed to the King today.  This one was a smaller one, so Bill thinks it is from a new generation.  Brent suggested an exterminator, but they have all been outdoors under the patio.  Connor drew a picture of a tombstone with R.I.P. on it, with the “Jerry count” beside it, and words below reading “Go Grandpa.”

Bill and I went to Walmart this morning.  We didn’t stay very long...just long enough to get a few supplies.  But it didn’t take long to spend over $50.  Yikes!

Meredith and the pups came after she finished working from home today.  While they were here we had thunder, which really scares little Hapa.  We also had a few drops of rain.

Later on, we had another shower, but barely enough to get the grass wet.  A good soaking rain is what we really need.

After dinner, Michelle, Matthew, Max, Bill, and I went for a walk.  We have been trying to get out every evening.  We don’t go very far...just trying to do a little better each day.  I certainly need to get in better shape before our family gathering in a month.  I still haven’t recovered from my last episode, but I am making progress.

June 22, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

This second day of Summer was cool and cloudy, with a threat of rain off and on most of the day.  We never did have any moisture, but we had a very sudden and rather strong wind storm.  It lasted for about 15 minutes.  We were outside in Michelle’s backyard.  Hapa’s fluffy fur was blowing ever which way.  She has a very thick coat, plus some of the hair sticks out to make her look even fluffier.  Bill says that’s her “porcupine look.”  The wind made her look even more like a porcupine today.

Michelle and I went to Lowe’s to shop for plants and things like that.  She bought two that were extra pretty, with large bright green leaves.  When she planted them she put a low variety of plant around them to drape over the edges of the pots.  They looked really pretty...until Max decided to rearrange the small ones.  He really likes her plants!  But he isn’t winning any popularity contests at the moment.

Michelle and I ate lunch at Wendy’s before going to JoAnn Fabrics.  It is a “dangerous” store for me to be turned loose in.  I always find some beads, etc. that I just know need a good home!  That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

I helped Michelle make enchiladas for dinner tonight.  I had a very minor part in the process.  She did a good job.  They were really good...the best I’ve had in a long time.  She can put the restaurants around here to shame.  And she made guacamole according to Natalia’s recipe.  And Mexican squash to go with it all.  It was a feast.

The Jerry count is still the same.  Maybe the King has taken of the invasion problem!

June 21, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

The last weekend in July, we are having a family gathering in Grand Lake.  Some of the group will arrive in Loveland a few days before.  Lori and Michael are coming early and so are Brent, Coleson, and Sara.  JP and Rosy will meet us at the campground on Friday.  I’m not sure when they plan to fly back to California, but we will take them for as long as we can have them.  Also coming from Houston are Harolene and Jon , Bill’s sister and brother-in-law.  They have hotel reservations not far from where our campground is located.  We have a camping spot for our “house.”  We also have four cabins and a teepee reserved.  We will all be in very close proximity.

So today, Meredith, Bill, and I went on a field trip to Grand Lake.  Joey went with us to protect us, guide us, and generally keep order among the ranks.  He is very good at it.  Soon after 8:00 this morning, we took the mountain route to Grand Lake.  Bill wants to take the motorhome through Rocky Mountain National Park rather than go west from the Denver area.  After driving it today, he thinks it won’t be a problem.  It took us three hours to get there today, so Bill thinks he can probably get there in four hours.

After checking out the campground, we went into the town, walked around for awhile, ate hamburgers and ice cream, went to the Information Center, and headed back to Loveland.  After getting home there were some more questions we thought of so we will try to use the Internet to get the answers.

We were all glad we had made the trip.  It is a beautiful drive over the mountains.  We saw many interesting sites.  We crossed the Continental Divide and went past the head waters of the Colorado River.  And we increased our critter count.  We saw several large elk with huge velvety racks.  Sometime there was one by itself, but usually there were three or more in the group.  We also saw a moose and her baby.  Everywhere there was wildlife, cars would be parked beside the road (sometimes on the road) to take pictures.

The only critter not encountered today was Jerry #8! 

June 20, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

The King was victorious yet again.  Jerry #7 is no longer of this earth.  When the trap was being reset, Max, the most curious pup ever, was being a big help.  We’ll see which one springs the trap next...Jerry #8 or Max!

It was warm again today so I stayed inside and tried to catch up on some book work.  I made a little progress, but I seemed to have quite a few interruptions.

Michelle, Bill, and I ate on the patio.  It was really nice.  The evening weather was pleasant.  The boys all ate inside, so they could watch TV, I’d guess.  With all the World Cup Soccer stuff on now, and daily reports on the Denver Broncos, their priorities didn’t include talking to old people.

And speaking of old people...several years ago Coleson and I were playing a game.  Coleson said, “The bad thing about playing with old people is that they think too good and they always know what kids are thinking.”  Smart kid, eh?  He learned one of life’s important lessons at an early age!

June 19, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Happy Birthday, Brent.  When Brent was very little, his nickname was Cubby Bear.  And it fit him very well.  He was cute and cuddly and fun to have around.  When he was six or seven we would play Hangman.  He hung me on Cubby Bear and thought it was really funny.  Years later, when Sara was about that age, she hung me on “boiled peanuts”  and thought it was just as funny.  Boiled peanuts were just about at the bottom of my list of favorites and Cubby Bear was just about at the top.

The King was successful once again.  Jerry number six is no longer with us.  He left the trap in case #6 had kin.

It wasn’t as hot today as the last few days have been.  Even with a bit cooler weather, I still didn’t accomplish much.  The energy just isn’t back yet.

Tonight, we met Meredith, Hapa, and Joey at Sonic.  We were all going to get milkshakes and send Brent a picture of us celebrating his birthday.  Well, it was a good idea, but it didn’t work out.  We sat a table off to the edge because of the dogs.  Max was very excited, but he didn’t know why. (Yesterday was his birthday and he was to have his first ice cream cone.)  It took us a very long time to place our order.  Meredith kept pushing the red button, but got no response.  Finally, she was able to order.  And then we waited, and waited, and waited.  Others who came after us got their orders, but not us.  After an hour, we left.  On the way home, Joshua said, “If Lori was here, she would have taken care of them.”  We all had a good laugh about that.

Sorry our celebration didn’t work out, Brent.  I hope it was the thought that counted.

June 18, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

In 2012, We met the Arnold’s and their dog, Sammy, at a BLM Campground west of Lone Pine, California.  Lone Pine is one of our favorite places to visit, and meeting them was one of the reasons.  And, of course, Sammy and I became instant friends.  Since we don’t have a furry beast in our RV, unless you count Bill, I tend to make lots of friends along the way.  Sammy is one of those.

Anyway, I got a “blog” message from them a couple of days ago saying that I had said I had a “mouse” story.  After being sick, I had put it in the back of my mind.  Thanks for the nudge!  Here goes...

We have RV friends, Dwight and Sheila, who had a mouse in their “house,” aka motorhome!  Finally, after setting 23 traps, the little critter was caught.  A couple of years ago, we had a mouse in our house and Bill set a trap, and soon caught the vermin.  His secret bait was a tiny piece of Snickers.  He self-proclaimed himself the King of the Mouse Catchers.  And as the story continues, he may have proved himself correct!

When we were in Loveland last fall, Michelle’s house had an unwanted visitor.  Bill set three traps.  It wasn’t long before we heard a snap and the deed was done.  The grandkids called it Jerry, as in “Tom and Jerry.”  The next day, another Jerry bit the dust, er, the candy.  I can’t remember if anymore were caught on that occasion, but there have been a total of five Jerrys sent to mouse heaven.

When Bill was painting on Michelle’s house last week, he looked down and there looking back at him from under the edge of the porch was a mouse.  In this household, it is hard to hang onto a Snickers (not because of the mice, but three teenage boys), so it was today before he set a trap.  When it was sprung, the only thing on the candy bar were ants!  The King reset the trap.

We had planned to go to a community picnic with Meredith this evening, but it was raining, so she, Bill and I went out for Mexican food.  It was still raining when we got home, so the story of the Great Mouse Caper will have to continue tomorrow.  Stay tuned... 

June 17, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Bill and I went to Sam’s Club for a few items and lunch.  It is always good to do double duty.  And we got home in time for a short nap before a 2:00 appointment.

I went for a haircut.  Actually, I just got a trim.  Bill got his few sprigs cut also.  He said his head was cold after that.  I told him to go outside.  It was 90°.

I spent the afternoon in a cool coach...doing paper work.  You know how much fun that is for me!  I had really gotten behind while I was feeling so poorly.  I am feeling better now, but I still have a way to go.  My main problem now seems to be dizziness, probably from the UTI medicine I am on.  I have six more days to be on it.

Michelle fixed taco salad for dinner tonight.  We each built our own.  Taco salad is one of my favorite things to have, especially on a hot day like this.

June 16, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

This morning, Corporal Matthew and General Abuela set out on a mission of extreme importance...to rid the “world” of empty soda cans in the west storage enclosure of the family compound.  The area had to be secured, which involved removing jungle plants and relocating building supplies to a better place.  

Corporal Matthew set a new post record by smashing 35 enemy soda cans in under two minutes, while General Abuela bravely accepted the job of much “encouragement” of her troop.

After much discussion and explanation, the mission was deemed a success, as the big black bag of “bodies” were dispatched to the recycling bin for burial.  Corporal Matthew returned to his computer station and the General took a nap!

Meredith and the pups came for a late afternoon visit.  Hapa, as usual, claimed me and wanted to talk while I was telling the morning adventures.  When told to wait her turn, she went to set by her mama.  I’m sure we will be able to “mend the broken relationship” on their next visit!

The rest of the day paled by comparison, with the exception of a trip to Walmart with Michelle, at the end of her work day.

June 15, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Happy Father’s Day to all you great dads out there.  And for the others...shape up!

Thanks to Michelle for preparing her father a really nice Father’s Day breakfast...sausage, bacon, eggs, hash browns, toast, and juice.  I was invited also, because I’m the one in charge of Big Daddy.  As they say, its a tough job, but someone has to do it!

We watched the NASCAR race from Michigan.  It was a good way to spend Father’s Day afternoon.  Jimmie Johnson won and his two little daughters joined him in the Winner’s Circle.  It is always fun to see the children of the drivers.

The weather was nice today, although cloudy later in the afternoon.  We sat in Michelle’s backyard and enjoyed the nice weather and played with the dogs.  Michelle and Meredith fixed a feast...steak and corn cooked on the grill, and baked potatoes.  We are enjoying sitting at the new patio table.  It was relaxing and the clouds never did produce any moisture.

June 14, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Some things have come to light about my venture to the ER.  First, only two people were allowed in the room with me.  Good old Bill, being the sweet, kind person he is let Meredith and Michelle take his place.  What a guy!

Second, Meredith wishes there had been a video running when the fireman “caught” me coming out of the motorhome.  She thinks it would have gone viral.  I think she was right.  That fireman was “drop dead gorgeous.”  I may have been sick, but I was still conscious.

And in the third place, when a nurse ask me if I could sign some papers, I said I thought I could.  Then she touched me and said I hadn’t finished.  I had gone to sleep.  Oh, my!  Maybe I was further gone than I thought.

Several weeks ago, Michelle and I had signed up to take a glass fusion class.  I had to drag my weary body out of my nice warm bed this morning.  It was very hard to do, but we had a great time, and made some nice new friends,

Connor thought a smoothie would make me feel better, and it did.  He really knows how to pamper his abuela.  With him in my corner, things are bound to get better.

I took a long nap when I got home.  I slept through a thunder storm, hard rain, maybe even some wind and hail.  You couldn’t prove it by me.  I was doing a good imitation of Rip’s wife.

We went to Meredith and Dwaine’s for fondue.  It is the first solid food I have had in a few days, and it was really good.  I only allowed myself to small amount.  But I shared with Joey!

Please excuse any typos!

June 13, 2014---Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Thanks for being my backup, Lori.  Once again, you made it possible for the blog to continue its streak.

Shortly after calling Lori for help, I was in an ambulance, heading for the hospital.  ‘Ole Tex insisted on it and Michelle was on his side.  You can’t trust anyone these days!!!

You know how I love to joy ride, but this was not my idea of a good time!  Three paramedics came, as well as three fireman.  It was a chore getting me out to the motorhome.  The medics helped me to the door, and the fireman caught me as I came down the stairs.  I’m sure It looked like a three ring circus...how many clowns, er, people can you stuff into an ambulance.

The first thing they did was hook me to an IV and pumped anti-nausea meds into me.  After checking my BP, pulse, and temp (102.8°) they blasted my veins with more “relief.”  They provided me with a “barf bag” and away we went.  

Meredith and Michelle took over at the hospital.  I don’t remember seeing Bill, but knowing his attitude about hospitals, I wasn’t surprised.  It was quite awhile before the “M and M team” was allowed in my room.  By then, it was well after the bewitching hour, which was appropriate considering by then it was already Friday the thirteenth.   They went to the lobby to send him home and returned to take care of the “invalid.”

I had x-rays, more IV stuff, and poking and prodding.  By then I was beginning to feel better, but I was very weak. It had been two days since I had retained any food or liquid.  And I was weak before that.  Well, they decided I didn’t need to stay overnight, which was fine with me.  This place didn’t have either Sonic ice or warm blankets, so why stay?

Remember, I had appeared at their door in an ambulance, right?  And they had the audacity to ask if I needed a wheel chair to get to the hospital exit!  Those of you who know me and know I seldom use “inappropriate” language don’t know how close I came.  And it was a long way to the exit.

Bill was very surprised we we knocked at the MH door after 2:00 a.m.  I was glad to be home!

I spent the day resting and trying to drink lots of water and juice.  It was a warm day, so Meredith took me to her cool air-conditioned house for the afternoon.  I spent my time on a sofa, reading a book.  Joey was there to watch over me!

By dinnertime I was able to eat a small serving of mashed potatoes.  Nothing reappeared!  When I got back to the motorhome, I ate three crackers with peanut butter and jelly.  Yes, I am on the mend!

June 12, 2014 -- Michelle's in Loveland, CO

Lorri here doing blog duty because Mom is feeling very puny  today.  Hoping that tomorrow brings her some relief.  It is times like this that I hate being so far away.

Please send positive thoughts her way.

June 11, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Taking five long naps today wasn’t on my “to do” list.  I had toast for breakfast.  Mid afternoon Michelle made me a smoothie.  I just ate a cracker and so far it hasn’t reappeared.

Hopefully, things will be better tomorrow.

I have a funny mouse story, but it will have to wait.

June 10, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

This morning, I went to the Urologist.  He is going to try some different medication, so it might take several weeks to see any progress.  And, yes, I have anther UTI.

We went to the library.  I checked out two mysteries.  We planed to make a stop at Walmart before going home, bur I was too tired by then.  

I rested for quite awhile, but still didn’t feel even close to par.

We had a geocache meeting at Johnson’s Corner.  It is a restaurant south on I-25.  We haven’t eaten there before.

I didn’t feel well before we left home, and by the time we got to the meeting place, I really felt crumby.  I made it through the whole thing, but as soon as I got home I rested.  I didn’t even feel like going to visit with the rest of the group.  The picnic table is getting a good workout.  Bill represented the two of us.

June 9, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

The sun was shining this morning, but the temperature was cool.  Things might warm up later, but it certainly doesn’t seem like June weather.

I am attempting to down size my shell collection even more.  Lots of them are at Meredith’s house already.  She is the custodian for the collection and will share with the other three kids.  Today I cleared a lot of things from the dash.  Hopefully, I will be able to finish that part tomorrow.

This was the second day for Connor’s football camp at Colorado State University in Fort Collins.  At about 10:00, Michelle got a call that he had had “his bell rung.”  I think in football-eze than means he took a hard hit to the head.  He was checked out and it was determined he had a slight concussion.  So he spent the remainder  of the day resting quietly in bed.  He can’t participate in football again until the trainer from Loveland High School clears him.

Believe it or not, I was able to cross four things off of this week’s “to do” list.  And this is only Monday!  Wow!  Only nine more to go!

June 8, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

It was cloudy and cold all day.  By mid afternoon, rain was falling and continued for several hours.

Meredith and I went to Fort Collins late this morning.  Our first stop was at REI.  I needed inserts for my hiking boots.  Recently, I received a $20 discount for a purchase of $50 or more.  I thought this would be a good time to buy the inserts.  I also had a $5.12 dividend to use.  I “made out like a bandit,” didn’t I?

We ate an early lunch at A & W before going to Sprouts, one of our favorite places to grocery shop.  Meredith let me off at Ulta before going on to start her shopping.  After making my purchase, I walked to Sprouts and bought a few things.  I checked out just before Meredith.  That was good timing!

On the way back to Loveland, we went through a car wash.  Dwaine is very insistent that their cars get washed regularly.  That’s probably why their vehicles always look good.

When I got back home, Bill and I watched a movie.  I went to sleep and he had to tell me the ending.  

I have a long “to do” list and I only marked one thing off today.  If the sun shines tomorrow, I will have to make hay.  Get it...make hay while the sunshines?

June 7, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Meredith, Dwaine, and the pups came at 8:00 this morning.  Michelle and I were ready to go in search of garage sales.  We planned to be gone for two hours because Michelle had so much to do.

Dwaine knew of a neighborhood sale in the north part of Loveland.  There weren’t as many people participating as we had hoped, but we did find a couple of good bargains.

From that part of town, we went west to another neighborhood sale, where we found some good things we just couldn’t live without.  One part of this area had a very interesting housing situation.  There were town houses...several rows of them.  Between each two rows was a paved alley.  Each town house had a double garage on the alley.  I think this was the first really “garage sale” area I have ever been to.

Michelle bought a book, I bought a blouse, a winter sweater and a Bronco game, and Dwaine purchased several small tables.  I don’t think Meredith bought anything.  I thought I raised her better.  It’s never too late.  I’ll have to work on that.

It was a fun morning and we missed our 10:00 deadline by just a few minutes.  I did a lot of walking and got rather tired, so I wasn’t much use to anyone after that.

Michelle and I went to Panda Express for a take home dinner.  After eating, Joshua stayed at the table listening to Michelle, Bill, and me reminiscing.  It was fun.  He was laughing so much that one time he nearly got choked on his apple juice.  Those times with kids and grandkids are so much fun.  Joshua is a great kid...an important part of this family.  And when he smiles he has dimples...such a handsome young man.

June 6, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Happy Birthday, Sara!  Fourteen years old today.  My, oh, my!

Yesterday, Bill and I cut our shopping trip short.  This morning we finished it.

Our first stop was to make an appointment with a urologist.  I was lucky and got one for next Tuesday.  We’ll see if he can figure out why I get so many infections.

From there, we went to Walmart.  There were a lot of things on our list so it took us a long time.  Add to that the fact we had a very cantankerous shopping cart (or as they say in Rhode Island, a shopping carriage) that needed to be manhandled to get it to go the right way.  It was a trial.  I got very tired.

We had planned to go to Panda Express for lunch.  That was a “go,” but we decided to take our Panda Bowl home to eat in comfort (aka while watching Maverick).  I felt much better after eating.

Meredith, Hapa, and Joey came after she finished work.  She, Michelle, Joshua, and Bill were working on the outside of the house.  That kind of thing is very hard for me to do, but I was able to clean up the kitchen.  

Meredith took me to Taco Bell to get burritos for supper.  While we were there, we got a call to pick up Connor from football camp.  Meredith didn’t stay to eat with us, so it was just three of us eating at the new picnic table.  The boys ate in the house while they watched a program about football.

It was a nice evening to sit outside and relax.  I think their new patio table is going to be well used.

June 5, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Bill worked in the yard this morning.  When he came in, I told him he looked as if he needed a nap.  So, of course, he took my suggestion.  He’s not hard to convenience!

When he had rested enough, we went out to do some errands.  Our first job was to find a window screen for Connor’s room.  We went to Habitat Re-Store thrift store.  There weren’t any available in the right size.

Next we tried Home Depot.  Again, the right size was not available.  We could, however, buy the parts and make one.  In the meantime, we took the screen off Matthew’s window, patched it, and put it on Connor’s window.  That should keep the bees out of his room.  We’ll deal with Matthew’s window when he comes back from Oregon in a week or so!

We went to Sam’s Club, ate lunch, and made a couple of purchases before deciding it was time to go home.  There is only so much running around the two old people can do.

At 4:00, Meredith and I drove to Johnstown.  I had given her a stain glass window that I made years ago.  It had incurred some damage when we moved from Seaside to Gearhart.  When Bill and I sold the Gearhart house and “hit the road,” I asked my friend, Alvis, to store it at her house until I could decide what to do with it.  It was further damaged over the years.

Last summer, we went to Seaside and got the piece, picturing a waterfall.  It was left with Meredith until we could decide what to do with it.  About a month and a half ago, she found a glass artist who could fix it.  We went to Johnstown to get the finished project.  Although some glass choices were slightly different, it is still the window I created almost 30 years ago.

It is now hanging in Meredith and Dwaine’s living room window.  It looks beautiful in its new home!

June 4, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

The weather was forecast to be cooler than yesterday, by about 10°.  But, alas, it was not to be.  It reached within a few degrees of Tuesday’s high.

Bill and the boys took the last of the old sod to the dump.  Bill had rented a truck at Home Depot.  It took them quite awhile to load it.  Joshua went with GP to unload it.  Connor stayed home and did other chores.

I had a sewing project to finish, and I did!  Yea!  I also selected beads for some crosses.  I like to keep a few finished ones on hand, and my supply of “ready to give away” crosses was depleted.  

I started a necklace for a lady at Sam’s Club, but I ran out of time.  I had an appointment with Dr. Cuervo.  I am still having UTI problems.  After a rather lengthy discussion, we decided I need to go to a Urologist.  Hopefully I will be able to get an appointment soon.

Michelle, Joshua, and I went to Johnstown late this afternoon.  She had bought a patio table and six chairs from friends there and Joshua came along as “muscle” to help load it.  I was the copilot! We ate dinner at the new table on the patio.  Meredith was there so we used all the chairs.  It was a nice evening.

June 3, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

Today was a warm one...in the mid 90’s.  We had a lot of wind and that may have kept things a bit cooler, but not much.

Bill made a couple of trips to the library to read about types of paint.  He checked prices at Home Depot and Ace Hardware.  Some problems have arisen so we are trying to decide about the project.  We may have to give up.

Michelle and I went to Walmart after she finished working.  We both had prescriptions to pick up.  While she was buying groceries for dinner, I sat in McDonald’s, drank a diet Dr. Pepper, and did some people watching.  That is among my favorite activities.

Dinner was taco salad.  It was really good.  Michelle put out a wide variety of items and we each were able to build our own salad.  It was delicious and fairly easy for her.

It had cooled off close to sundown so I unloaded the back of the Honda, vacuumed, rearranged things, and threw some things away.  It is a job I had been putting off.  It really needed to be done so now it is out of the way!  Yippy, Skippy.

June 2, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

This morning I was feeling better than I have lately.  I decided to “make hay while the sun shines.”

I caught up on some desk work.  I get behind, very quickly, in our check book notations.  I am now caught up...for a day or two, at least.

Michelle and I went grocery shopping during her lunch break.  I survived walking up and down the aisles better than usual.

My household accomplishment for the day was cleaning out the refrigerator.  That’s always a fun job.  Our food supply is way down, however, so it wasn’t too much of a chore.

And then it was time to polish my fingernails.  I hate to admit it, but I didn’t do a very good job.  I may have to let Bill give it his best shot next time.  I was just a little too shaky to be successful.

While Michelle rested after finishing working in her office this afternoon, I started dinner.  While the meatballs were browning, I unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher.  Joshua came to my assistance, completely of his own idea.  I didn’t even have to play my “poor old grandma” card.  He’s such a good boy.

Michelle came to take over dinner duties, so I went out onto the deck to rest.  I think I over did it with all my activity today!  But after a good dinner and some rest and relaxation time, I perked up.  Meredith ate dinner with us.  Afterwards, she, Michelle, and I sat outside.  It was a nice evening.

It was a good feeling to have a productive day.  They are few and far between lately.

June 1, 2014--Michelle’s in Loveland, Colorado

June first already.  Double yikes!

At about 11:00, this morning, Ron and Matthew left for Oregon.  They will be gone for two weeks.  Max went with them.  That should be an experience!

Meredith and Michelle are trying to get the swimming pool cleaned and ready to sell.  Bill helped them with the washing process.  Tomorrow, they will turn it over, scrub that side, and put a sign on the back fence.  Hopefully, someone will want it.

Michelle plans to put chairs and a table there.  The area gets afternoon shade, thanks to the neighbor’s tree.  It would be a pleasant sitting area in the evenings.

Meredith fixed dinner in the crock pot, so after everyone had worked hard they would have a good meal.  She made chicken enchiladas, Spanish rice, and slaw.  Michelle brought refried beans.  And there was watermelon for dessert.  It was a feast.  

We sat around the table and heard football stories from Connor and Joshua.  Michelle and I joined in, Meredith listened, Grandpa was about to go to sleep, and Dwaine was bored.  We also talked about the gathering of grandkids in Florida when Lori took all of them for a visit.  

I enjoyed that reminiscing.  One afternoon we got caught in a terrible rainstorm.  Nine of us crammed into our Honda CRV.  JP was driving, Sara was on my lap, and stacked in the back seat were Lori and Natalia, Connor and Coleson, and Joshua and Matthew.  It was quite a ride.  Joshua thinks we should reenact it this summer when everyone is here for a family reunion.  That would be comparable to how many people can be stuffed into a Volkswagen. 

I’m sure we were every bit as crowded.  It was a fun memory.