Winding Down in Life

Retirement, the time of your life!

2011-11-20T04:59:00.000-08:00

It seems so nice to be able to sleep just a tad later. Enjoy the morning coffee and quiet time without the stress of dashing off to work. Not that we don't work, it seems like we are always into projects.
This week I managed to finish the outside decor for the holiday season, better known as Christmas. Tony has to install the wreath and front decorations yet but it is prior to Thanksgiving so plenty of time. Turkey is thawed, big group coming Wednesday through the weekend, lots of food and fun.
Tony is finished with the new TV/stereo cabinet and having an awesome experience with the set up, speakers, surround sound, woofer, you name it, he's playing with it!
(Sometimes it takes longer than anticipated to hook everything up!)I finished the leaves, love the trees so it is a labor of love, all fifty-two bags:) Stihl handheld blower, Tony buys quality. I can even start it with one or two pulls!

Brrr,,,,,,,,,, The weather is changing

2011-10-26T05:45:00.000-07:00

We have a wine and cheese party this Friday and it is in the park. I think we shall be very cold unless we are dressed warmly such as for a football game.

Mini Sewer Installation Fun

2011-10-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

This was a quite a project! These three guys were so organized. They hardly seemed to talk to each other, all knew exactly what to do and they were hard working, efficient, and fun to watch. When I came dashing out with my camera, I'm sure they thought I was going to be a crabby old lady! I told them I just had to get a picture of their truck for my grandkids. (Actually, I think the picture was for me!) My dad used to drive an excavating truck but nothing like this monster truck! What a beauty and huge!
We set up lawn chairs and were amazed by the way different attachments were added to these machines for various aspects of the job, vacuuming, bulldozing dirt and gravel, a wire roller that cleaned soil from the sidewalks and grass, endless possibilities. They worked 13 hrs. with hardly a break. It was uplifting to know we have some who still believe in the work ethic!

The Gazebo Is Finished!

2011-10-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

Meanards, Home Depot, Ace, Fleetfarm, you name the stores with the products for building and we were there for one thing or another.
The entire project seemed to grow in length as Tony folded screening, measured twice and cut once for what seemed like an endless number of trim boards. Thank God for Dewalt tools and power staplers, drills, nailers, you name it, he used it.I never realized that there would be so many details and so much time involved but the end product certainly is beautiful.Duke seems to think it is his new summer place.

Memories

2011-09-12T03:55:00.001-07:00

We thought we looked so skinny, pictures let you know what you need to do-eat less! A beautiful walk, a beautiful day with family. Barry, Margaret, CJ, and Eli at the lake.
Snowballs in July, CJ and Eli
.

Tetons and Yellowstone

2011-09-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

There is so much to see, so much to do, time, time time, never underestimate how many times you can visit these two parks. Animals are everywhere but you really need to get on the road early before the crowds in order to see them. We were lucky this year, a grizzley cub, elk,
bison,
lots of birds. The forest has recovered from the fire and was much greener this year with tree growth.The majesty of the Tetons and their reflection in the lake is awesome each time.

Vacations and family ,what else is important?

2011-08-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

The time frame of our vacation approached quickly. We waited anxiously for the departure date, well, not exactly. We were pretty busy with construction of the gazebo for Penny and Bob. The first day out was to Edina. Since the trip was only 5.5 hrs., we took our time, slept in and left Green Bay around 2:00 p.m. The following day after enjoying an evening with Chris and family, we headed out west toward Utah. We were well rested so we were up early and hit the road by 6:50 a.m. We drove 14 hrs. that first day and knocked out quite a stretch of interstate. For the first time ever, I saw a bull moose casually walking approximately 12 ft. from the interstate. It was a huge animal with a rack to match and no worries. Naturally, the camera was in the back, zipped up safe and sound, so alas, no picture!
This was a priceless day with grandsons and Debbie and Margaret at the Dinosaur Museum.

The kids had a ball digging for bones in the archaelogical dig site. They usually leave their shoes outside the dig and since it is all sand, they love it. Eli likes his sandals on however!
There was a velcro build the dinosaur activity,
sometimes it was a rather strange looking dinosaur due to placement of the pieces but they had fun and many ideas relative to the construction of this dinosaur.
Many of the pieces were larger than the kids!
The water and sand table is always a favorite. It often proves difficult to convince your children to leave this neat experience. Moms love getting in on the action too and are hesitant to leave as well.

Vacation

2011-08-24T05:32:00.000-07:00

We left the state just in time to miss all the humidity and 90 degree weather. It has been very comfortable since we have returned. The vacation was two-fold. We wanted to visit sons and their families and do some sight seeing. Everyone is well, we accomplished some tasks, had some good conversations, some laughs, and some experiences with the family to add to our memory book.
We visited many of our favorite haunts; the Tetons, Yellowstone, Custer State Park, Custer, Old Faithful, Mt. Rushmore, Sturgis,........the list goes on and we added special memories and new places.
Remember to stay away from the Sturgis area for at least two weeks prior and two weeks after the Sturgis reunion. Seventy years and going strong, we never saw so many motorcycles, fifth wheels with trailers, campers, motorhomes with huge mathching two door trailers, semi motorhomes! (Not to mention all those riding their bikes to the famous event)
Old Faithful was less than spectacular this year. There was another geyser going off at the same time and we thought maybe that affected the show.
Maybe we have just seen Old Faithful too many times-no-you can never see it too many times! Awesome!

Neighbors

2011-08-24T05:26:00.000-07:00

A tribute to our precious neighbors!
What an awesome vacation! We have such great neighbors! They took care of our mail, watched the place, re-set the alarm when necessary, cut the grass, watered the flowers........., exceptional people. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
(Our vacation was stress free because we knew you were in charge:)
Tony and Pat

Gazebo

2011-08-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

I never thought it would take so much time but it is beautiful and I know Penny and Bob will enjoy it. The landscaping is in progress and the screens are the final touch. Lights and outdoor breezes, sitting outside in the rain, it will be awesome!

Retirement Party Pictures

2011-06-20T18:40:00.001-07:00

This was my awesome partner. He experienced the best group of students I have ever had and it was his first year! What a way to begin your career.I taught in the morning and left at 11:30 daily, he taught in the afternoon. I think the most important lesson he learned was to build a relationship with the students and then you can teach them anything.

These are some of the hard working playground supervisors, a substitute teacher, and the real boss, the secretary:) Never underestimate the power of the duplicating person, the custodian, nor the secretary.

Just a few of the teachers that I spent the last nine years with. They range from kindergarten, special education, physical therapy, and instrumental music. Five of my colleagues are also retiring in January.

The cake was absolutely delicious,the snacks were plentiful and yummy, all were devoured at school the following day. It was a wonderful tribute.

Retirement

2011-06-04T03:31:00.000-07:00

Two 1/2 days left! 33 years! I have enjoyed my profession and I am ready for the next chapter. Colleagues, friends, family, and parents of students have been supportive which is a necessity in the teaching field. I have no regrets, I was ready. It will be nice to sleep in a bit and be casual for a bit longer every morning. Lingering over coffee prior to starting my day will be a welcome addition to my mornings. Trips to Salt Lake City and Edina will be easier and we will be able to travel more often. Parties were special but they are finished. The final year as a shared position was a wonderful way to transition into retirement. One needs a great partner and I was lucky to have such a person.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Birthday Bash

2011-05-19T18:32:00.000-07:00

Sewing aprons and bonnets for the party!

Stereo System Cabinet

2011-04-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

Woodworking projects in progress: The finished floor! Tony refinished the floor and has fine sanded it. It has the first coat of stain and varnish. One to go. The cabinet for the new system is starting to look like a piece of furniture. It is out of the workshop and in the living room! Not quite finished yet but already in use.

Monsoon Season-April

2011-04-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am so ready for spring but the rain just never seems to end this year. The yard has been raked but the flooding makes it impossible to do anything. We have ponds, river, and track to clean and level-oh well, guess we will just do inside work.

Super Bowl

2011-03-26T06:24:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought after the Lions game that we even had a chance at the Super Bowl. The team came to play week after week after week and even with some disheartning losses, we prevailed! The injury list grew and grew and grew, what a finish! The trophy is not here in Green Bay yet so we toured the Hall of Fame and took pictures of the three-that's corrcet Viking fans,THREE trophies that we currently have on display:)

GO PACK, GO!

2010-10-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

Football season is upon us and this Packer-Viking game was a nail biter! We won but it was scary and stressful. I like a larger margin but it was a win! This was the anniversary couple, many more!( with Packer victories!) The food was exceptional, especially the home-made dip provided by Doug and Melissa. The Festy burgers provided a nice compliment to the meal. Unfortunately the crock pot exploded on the stove so the beans hit the ground-hope that it never happens again, what a mess.Thanks to Walt, the die hard Viking fan who bets every year on a win-sometimes he gets lucky, not so this year! It is always nice to beat the Vikings, especially with the traitor at the helm:) Thanks Walt for the Godiva chocolate truffles, they were scrumptious. I did share them with Tony.

Projects Galore-Woodworking Season

2010-10-19T17:25:00.000-07:00

This is the sewing room prior to remodeling. This project was long overdue. Tony is designing a large cutting table with cupboards and I am anxiously awaiting the finished room. Mark will plaster the walls and ceiling in November, then the floor needs refinishing. I think we may rent a machine and do the floor ourselves.
So many projects, a new base for the TV is first on the agenda and shares the stage with Pella Windows, the first one goes in this weekend.I will be busy with the painting in the sewing room and our bedroom, Mark is plastering that room too.

1/2 Days and Loving It!

2010-09-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

This is so cool, I don't know how I got everything done when I worked fulltime! There is much more time for sewing, gardening,shopping,and taking naps! My class is awesome this year, I can hardly believe how quiet and responsive they are. What a difference a year makes! My job share partner is twenty-five and this is his first year. The students love him and he is technologically talented! So far, so good!

If I Had Known Grandkids Were This Much Fun....

2010-08-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

The train is always a point of interest for kids and grandkids! Harry and Ella were quite helpful with the track and train with it's balky performance thanks to the humid, rainy July we have experienced this summer. Brian was into cleaning the track and proved to be a valuable asset to Tony as far as removing debris from the track and polishing it up for super electrical connections.

Bay Beach and the water park proved to be popular not only with Harry, Ella,and Andy but their parents due to the hot weather. Harry and Ella enjoyed some water slide action as well as practicing strokes for swim lessons.
Where else in WI can you enjoy an amusement park for a mere $.25 per ride? Some rides do require two tickets but it is still a steal for entertainment! There are many little tyke rides and I do believe Andy rode on all of them!

Summer Fun

2010-08-02T09:09:00.000-07:00

The summer flies by when you are having this much fun! We went to Door County last weekend and had lunch at the old CC Club on the corner of the intersection in Fish Creek. Fantasic lunch, somewhat limited menu, but the view for people watching is great! The upper deck of the restaurant is outside and quite pleasant.
There is not much that compares to the view of the Green Bay and Lake Michigan. We did plenty of biking and enjoyed the view at the beach, the pristine blue water, sailboats, and cruisers.We never noticed all the girls in bikinis! (You know, the ones your husbands never see!)

American Girl Dollbed for an American Girl

2010-07-17T13:46:00.000-07:00

The order came from Ella, please grandpa, I need a bed for Julie, my American Girl Doll. It really did not take that long and Grandpa had fun creating it! Computers are truly amazing. Grandpa has designed and built seven beds for grandchildren-the bed for Julie was easy, same design and much smaller!

Do you think Julie and Ella are pleased?

Rain,Rain,Go Away!

2010-07-17T13:34:00.000-07:00

We are getting rain, rain, and then more rain. Enough! We are five inches over the average for July and the ground is totally saturated.

All Aboard

2010-06-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

It seems that even with time off we just couldn't get around to cleaning the track, re-leveling it, wiping down the train wheels, and get the train running. It is just like a real train, lots of grunt work to get the track and train ready to roll.

Finally, all is completed and we are sitting back on the screen porch watching it snake through the gardens. Some of these are roof shots, Tony insists he won't fall off!

Birthday Surprise

2010-06-10T04:34:00.000-07:00

Tony absolutely spoils me!

Mother's Day

2010-06-10T04:12:00.001-07:00

I guess I had better acknowledge Mother's Day prior to Father's Day which is just around the corner. The flowers were gorgeous and the candy delicious. The cards meaningful and the e-mail messages heartfelt! Thanks, thanks, thanks, I am so blessed.

lv, mom

Never Ending

2010-05-25T05:41:00.000-07:00

The gifts keep arriving, this is rather unexpected and quite nice. I could get used to answering the door with such surprises arriving on a daily basis! Gerber daisies, hanging floral arrangements, and edible creations-yummy! Cards galore with many meaningful thoughts and messages are much appreciated.

Surgery-May 12th.

2010-05-20T09:19:00.001-07:00

I am anxious as most would be when you undertake the replacement of a hip. After years of waterskiing, snowskiing, and biking, it just plain wore out. The arrival at 6:30 A.M. escalated my concerns about surgery, pre-registered but necessary to arrive and wait for two hours! All went well, the doctor had no complications and the anthesiologist certainly knew what he was doing! I would post a graphic of the scar but it is quite gross. When you marry a woodworker be prepared to know measurements, 7.8 inches and many, many, staples!
The nurses were wonderful and the CNA's were great with the exception of one who perhaps will find another field.

An added feature of my abode for four days was the view of the Flight for Life as it approached and landed right outside my window. (twice) There is no place like home though and it is great to be recuperating with pain diminishing on a daily basis. Thanks to all for your thoughts, prayers, calls, visits, flowers, food, and candy!

Spring and my Favorite Tree

2010-05-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

It is with anticipation that we await the arrival of spring. We have no doubt of the arrival when the crab apple tree blooms. The tree is absolutely gorgeous but when the wind blows, disaster for the ponds. The beauty far outweighs the fallen blooms.

Grandkids and Kids At Play

2010-04-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

Brian showed us he still has the skills for playing the piano, he demonstrated the electronics of the piano in case you don't know how to play!
The grandkids had a great time with the birthday candles for Tony's birthday cupcakes. We had candles that would not blow out and CJ and Andy loved it! I think the adults did as well. These are just a few shots of the best reasons to visit Utah.So many toys, easy entertainment for all the boys!
Brian and the boys.

Margaret and the boys.

Western Vacation

2010-04-09T17:41:00.001-07:00

We delivered the beds! Two of them are anxiously awaiting CJ and Eli until they get a little older and this is a snapshot of Andy on his new bed.
The snow was tremendous, Tony spent a day skiing with Brian. He did not take the camera! This was a day at Solitude with Margaret and Barry.
The weather could not have been nicer, a great day for all. I relaxed in the chalet and did some knitting while Tony, Barry, and Margaret tuned their ski skill.

Anticipation

2010-04-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

We planned, packed, hit the road by 4. Tony worked daily on the beds, DONE! We were excited to be heading out. I took off two days early from work and the time flew by quickly. I can not believe how quickly!
This trip was different! We were relaxed, took our time and arrived Friday at Brian's. We spent two and one half days driving, three days with Brian's family and three days with Barry's family. Then, two and one half days driving home again. The drive was uneventful, roads were clear, called ahead for lodging, thank goodness!(lots of sports competitions had filled hotels)
We made good time, no accidents, but $4200.00 damage to the truck from the blowing sand, gravel,and snow in Wyoming. I remember spending the night at Little America last year, we didn't call ahead and the Inn was full, slept in the truck. Very comforable (heated recliner seats) but not quite as nice as a hotel room.(Silverado, of course!)
This year we got to Laramie and could not continue. If we had made it to Rawlins, we would have been OK but I-80 was closed the next morning for that stretch, bummer. We waited 90 minutes at a truck stop. Such a traffic experience on I-80, cars and semis as far as you could see when the road opened, just like a big city traffic jam.
Parleys Canyon had a rollover and we were caught for 90 minutes in another traffic jam. Unreal, I'm not sure who was in the rollover that blocked all three lanes but the car did not look good. Prayers needed for that person for sure.

Fog

2010-03-09T06:12:00.000-08:00

A delay in school! Thanks to the fog we had a two hour delay today.(Probably due to the 34 car pile up earlier in the week when no delays were called. Thank God, no one was killed in that horrible crash. There were no trucks involved so that was most likely the life saver. They called the delay so late, I was already gone for my usual breakfast meeting. That's OK, I had no problem returning home to take some additional time for relaxation. I have begun knitting again: so far this year; two scarves and one hat. I have two afghans in progress. It is always nice to have an unexpected break of this sort in one's daily schedule. We have had so much fog this month it is unbelievable! The rain came Thursday and most of our snow is GONE!

Anxiously Awaiting Flower Season

2010-03-02T14:45:00.001-08:00

Margaret and Barry, I thought I would send a picture just in case you forgot what my car looks like!

The Years Fly By So Fast

2010-02-16T03:25:00.000-08:00

Time flies when you are having fun! Where did the years go? It seems like just yesterday when we were young.
The weather was much warmer in Madison when we got married, in the fifties. What happened to global warming?
This was a gift from Barry and his family,the fruit was absolutely delicious. What a surprise! Thank you for remembering our anniversary of 46 years!

The Joys of Having a Boiler

2010-01-30T17:43:00.000-08:00

Today I learned how to flush the boiler! Our home has three systems or loops that use water for heating. Two are for steam heat and one is for hot water heat. This is a complicated procedure and Tony has written four pages of instructions that are explicit.

It took an hour but was quite easy, just time consuming. This has to be done four times a year and you need to add chemical to the boiler to keep it functioning well. Whatever we did, did not work for the boiler keeps flooding and the steam heat does not seem to be working correctly this evening. Thank goodness we have a heat wave, it is all of 23 degrees so we will survive. We ran out of chemical and the hot water lines still seem to have air in them so Tony is putzing with them to get the air out of the lines. I hope he is successful, it is nice to have heat in Wisconsin in the winter. We really need some additional research and a new tank for the water system, this dual system still needs tweaking.

Dinner and Movie Date

2010-01-16T12:59:00.000-08:00

Last night we went on a date. We went out for dinner at 1951 Club and then to a movie. An awesome movie,"It's Complicated." We had fun and we were home by 9:00. There were many parts of the movie that hit home.

Tony is busy making beds today and I am relaxing away the day. I did get some chores finished and a tad of grocery and shopping done but now I am cruising. That's probably just what I need after a long week with conferences. we have the second set this coming week and I will be pleased when Friday rolls around again.

Almond Bark

2010-01-01T10:52:00.000-08:00

This is so easy to make and just a tad in a cup makes a great gift. Melt the white choclate in the microwave by weight. Watch carefully, it burns from the inside. Break the chocolate chunk in two pieces as you melt it, usually about halfway through the process. Line a cookie sheet with wax paper, stir in sliced almonds, about one cup,pour on wax paper to cool and break into pieces when cooled. You can sprinkle red or green sugar on the bark while warm for a more festive gift.

Christmas Memories

2010-01-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, we took the camera with us to Doug and Melissa's home but neglected to take pictures. This is a shot from last year but we still look the same and the gingerbread house was a hit again this year. We had a wonderful visit and the dinner was awesome, thanks again for inviting us Doug and Melissa. Our visit with Bob and Diane was memorable and we need to get together more often. Thank goodness we have two weddings this coming year! The kids were unable to make it home but we were excited to Skype the opening of the gifts with CJ, such fun, thanks for including us, he was so excited!!! I have included pictures of the coffee cups, so you can see what they look like. We absolutely love them and get to look at the boys every morning as we sip our favorite brew. The home made carmels, licorice, and divinity were melt in your mouth as usual. Thanks again for the memories.

Twas the Week Before Christmas

2009-12-19T05:50:00.000-08:00

Winter has arrived! I could not believe it would be an overnight sensation. One day the yard was brown and ugly and the next day we had 14.6 inches of snow. I guess that old phrase really is true,"What a Difference a Day Makes!"
We had a snow day that I had assured my students would not happen! "The storm is arriving too early, it will be all plowed out prior to the beginning of school." I was delighted to be incorrect! For the first time that I can remember, school was cancelled the night before. The following day after, we had a late start. I could get used to this!

It did take is 2.5 hours to dig out. We helped the neighbors also but it was difficult even with a snowblower. The yard is beautiful, now I just need to get into the spirit of the season.

Autumn

2009-10-18T15:28:00.001-07:00

I can't tell you Autumn is my favorite season because I love them all but the beauty of the fall colors is breathtaking.
Our trip to Eagle River was a week too soon. We saw colors but this is in our yard and the park. Eagle River was worth the trip, the Cranberry Festival is a must and the deep greens of the pines blended with trees changing for the winter was awesome.

The gardens are diminishing but there is still a tad of color, perenniels that won't surrender to the frost.

Penninsula State Park-Door County

2009-10-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

This is one of our favorite get-aways besides Mackinac Island! We often drive up to Penninsula State Park, Door County. Fish Creek is a quaint little town and a stop at Hideside is always interesting.
We take our bikes, grill, and a picnic lunch. Lighthouse Point is a gem, it has a shelter, facilities, and privacy. We secure a parking place on the cul-d-sac and to the left of us it is totally private. The view is great, the only visitor we had this year was one lonely chipmunk-no seagulls.
The view is panoramic and the bike ride is spectacular. We watched people on the beach and wandered aimlessly through Fish Creek. It was windy but warm, relaxing and stress free! No, we didn't get to Wilsons for ice cream but maybe another time!

Rain

2009-09-26T05:27:00.000-07:00

Rain! Yes! It has been almost a month with no rain-good thing we have a sprinkler system. I am so fortunate that Tony simply knows how to do everything. It took two years and sore knees but it has been wonderful not to drag hoses around to water flowers and the lawn. It saves money and water too. I can't believe it has been 9 years since we trenched the lawn -such a relaxing effect too as the sprinklers pop up and sprinkle, soothing water movement.
Tony never forgets to say-"I guess I'll water your flowers now!" Sometimes life is such that one needs all the soothing effects available. Even the hawks like to shower in the water!

Bricks, Bricks,and More Bricks

2009-08-23T16:31:00.000-07:00

The project was overdue, the grass never grew and in the spring we had to deal with a flooded area that made access to the shed impossible. The grill buried in the ground looked out of place though necessary for s'mores, conversation, relaxed laughter, and the disposal of spring twigs.The project was much more complicated than we thought, it took many hours of digging, hauling and leveling gravel, and finally laying the bricks. Tony ordered extra bricks so we would not have to deal with a second delivery charge if we ran short. You can purchase several different sizes of circle brick kits to accommodate the fire ring we were constructing for the grill. This will not be finished until next Saturday if the weather holds, no rain for 24 hours. We had enough bricks to do a brick walkway by the pergola which was shaded, devoid of grass, and always a muddy mess when it rained. We filled in with black dirt, planted the grass, transplanted flowers by the walkway; only the application of sand by the grill remains to be done! Labor Day weekend should be free of labor!

Condo Renovation-The Rest of the Story

2009-07-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

The beginning: Chris and Barry took out 4.5 tons of garbage; carpet, cupboards, dated plastic and neon ceiling light fixtures and let me tell you, it was greatly appreciated by mom and dad. Barry and Brian ripped trim for all the doors and windows and installed it in a day. The boys were really a big help. All the ceilings were painted white and we used creme on the walls even though it appears yellow. (Just the amateur photography.) This is a shot of the old and the new bathroom. Brian spent many minutes putting up all the finishing touches such as the new picture frame mirror, towel bars, towel ring, shower apparatus, and venetian blinds. I never would have been able to hang the mirror, it took an engineer!
The living room looked 100% better after the carpet was installed. We sanded the deck railing, stained it, and carpeted the deck. Our unit is on the agenda to be painted so that will improve the exterior appearance. I cleaned up the gas fireplace, stained it, and gave it two coats of varnish, I get the easy jobs. I'm glad we did not paint the woodwork by the fireplace, the tile was dark and it looks rich stained and varnished. We learned much from this project but not sure we want to attempt another project of this magnitude. It would be awesome to get it rented and finally have some good luck with our experiences as landlords.

Utah Vacation?

2009-07-28T05:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am questioning the word vacation. Tony promised we would renovate the condo until 1 or 2 every day and then play. There was NO time for the play part of the schedule! We took out one part of the wall on the left to extend the kitchen and all the old neon lights to update it. I never knew how heavy sinks were, without Barry's strength, we would have been in trouble. He set it by himself and I could not even lift the box with Tony. It is handy to have handymen in your life!

We spent much time and money at Home Depot, I think it was worth it. We worked daily and the boys all helped, without their help, we would still be there. We finished at 12:45 the day we left for WI. It was grueling but necessary and the place looks great. Now if we can just get it rented.

Finished Projects

2009-07-27T14:54:00.001-07:00

One for me, one for Tony!
I love the earring and necklace feature of my new lingerie chest!
Tony waited a long time for his new bureau as well. It has much more room in it than the old bureau that we got from his mom's aunt in Gary when we were first married.
I think when you wait for something it means so much more, especially when hand crafted. There are many things in life much more important than new furniture. We had so much fun when the kids were growing up. You can always get furniture but the youth of your children is precious. Enjoy every minute, let furniture be your low priority.

New Member of the Family, Eli

2009-07-17T17:59:00.000-07:00

We left for Utah and the trip out was time consuming but uneventful, just a long time on the road but much to see and quiet reflection time.(27 hrs. worth:)

We arrived safely and were most comfortable with Barry and Margaret in their home. Their hospitality was tremendous and CJ was fun to play with. His numerous "What are you doing Grandpa?" were humorous. We enjoyed dinners with all the kids and especially enjoyed spending time with grand kids. It is true; Had I known grand kids were so much fun, I would have had them first! Harry and Ella were a blast swimming with us in the pool at the condo and at Craig and Gretchen's home.(Margaret's parents) Andy was so involved and interesting to talk to, his mind goes a mile a minute. We were fortunate to visit with Ben three times and we do miss him very much. It was wonderful when he called us on the way back to Wisconsin, a nice surprise. We miss them all and have not even been home for a week.

Fortunately, all went well with the birth of our new grandson, Eli, and his mom is doing well. His arrival certainly was the highlight of our trip.

Benjamin

2009-06-13T03:54:00.000-07:00

Friday was the first full day off from school. It was glorious. At the end of the year everybody is ready to move on. The students and teachers are sad and excited. I met with friends for breakfast and we talked and laughed for 2 hours. That's what friends are for, never forget family and friends.

Speaking of family: We got a letter fom Ben-what a nice surprise. It is our first letter ever from him and we hope to get many.
Writing is such a good way to reflect, too bad more people don't get into that instead of texting! I know, my age is showing:)

Tony brought home a Nero/backup with 18,000 songs on it from a DJ. We snacked on shrimp and listened to songs for almost 3 hours! It was a trip down memory lane for sure. This is unusual behavior for us because we can drive all the way to Utah and we seldom listen to XM radio!

Woodworking Season Never Ends

2009-05-25T13:30:00.001-07:00

These are just two of the many projects that Tony designs and builds for the kids. It takes a considerable amount of time for construction. After all, you do have to plant the acorn.

Tony loves the orders and the hobby is fun for him so it is not like work.

He currently has a special order from Andy for bunk beds just like Harry and Ella. CJ inherited Andy's fire engine bed so now he needs a bed. (If CJ wants a bed he should order it this summer and then Grampa Tony could make two at once.) The kids select their wood and stain and then they wait. The wood and craftsmanship are complimentary and the joy by the craftsman is unable to be measured.

Utah

2009-05-24T03:55:00.001-07:00

There are many reasons to visit Utah, one of the most important is to visit kids and grandkids!
The scenery is fantastic, animals abound, and the weather is warm. Well, hot, when we travel out there in summer. We spend much time in Craig and Gretchen's pool and outside anyway. Who dares to let the weather rule their life?

These pictures reflect some of the best reasons though to visit that state.
It seems there are always helpers no matter what chore you are attempting and they work relatively cheap.
A quick trip to Baskin Robbins for ice cream usually is a great motivator.

Custer State Park has so many animals.

Ben always gets hyper when he actually sees them roaming all over the place.

Come to think of it, so do I! Bison, goats, donkeys, bears, you name it, Custer State Park or Yellowstone has it!

Flowers and More Flowers

2009-05-15T02:46:00.000-07:00

This is a rhododendron bush, it only blooms in the spring. Early spring, but it is beautiful while it lasts. The crab apple tree is in full bloom, glorious pink right now so very awesome and fragrant in the back yard.
Wow, unexpected bouquets from Blake and Tea, accent the e to pronounce. I don't know how to do that! Thanks again for your thoughtfulness, it is nice to be remembered.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sunday, Mother's Day, cold and and rainy, a typical spring day for May in Wisconsin, 57 degrees will be the high if we are fortunate. That's OK, I need a break from gardening! I have been planting my planters and splitting perennials all week. I will hold off on the tomatoes and green peppers until May 20th.(Bob's advice)
This is the plant from Barry, Margaret, and CJ. What a beauty! I think I will leave it on the screen porch so it doesn't freeze. Thank you very much! I had a beautiful card from Penny and a phone call from Brian. Thanks for thinking of me, all are appreciated. Doug and Melissa are coming for dinner with their children, it will be fun. Tony is grilling, it is not a day to go out for breakfast or dinner, far too busy.

Bubbles Galore

2009-04-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

Friday was 83 degrees, we went golfing! Saturday was a rude awakening-Tony had a scratchy throat, sore muscles, he was fatigued! It was rainy and cold, winter was threatening to return, a mere 40 degrees and rain, wind, rain, wind, rain.....
Time for a bubble bath in a Koehler Whirlpool tub to dissolve those aches and pains, no, this is not Tony!
Did you think I would put him on the blog covered with bubbles?
The grandkids love the six foot Koehler whirlpool, it makes bubbles long after you don't want any bubbles and you can stretch out and really get comfortable. Just ask Ben, he fell asleep once and there were bubbles everywhere! It's a great way to relax and fix those achy muscles. Not as pricy as the spa and just as soothing.

Privacy Fence and Pergola

2009-04-19T06:16:00.000-07:00

What a day to begin, the sun was shining and the temperature was in the seventies. An awesome day granted by God.
We have a train, a garden train. We live by a park and we needed to keep our backyard private. This is just another designed by "Tony" project.

The posts were the first to be set and then the fence appeared piece by piece and sections.
This was quite a project!
Benjamin assisted with the staining of the lattice which proved to be a time consuming and back breaking job. He worked hard, very hard and I wish I could put some pictures of him on this post but alas, we did not take any. We grilled steaks, sweet white corn, and mashed potatoes as a reward for his labor. The entire project took six weeks to complete but was well worth it. Much of the staining and cutting of the boards was done prior to the actual construction stage.
One month for the staining alone. Three gallons of stain and lots of sweat by Ben and me. We took a vacation break halfway through construction. This is the finished project! Success, it provides privacy and is absolutely beautiful.

Sunny Saturday

2009-04-18T14:31:00.000-07:00

Finally, a day that was warm, warm, warm! I think I actually got a bit of sunburn.
We made a second trip to the train store. It seems that someone lives near a bunch of hooligans and their train lay-out was destroyed for the second time; thus they are selling all their cars, switches, you name it on consignment. Tony went on Friday and we returned today for some additional switches and a new car.
Everything was half price and since the cars were kept indoors, they were not damaged. I can't imagine the fun that someone would have smashing someone else's hobby. They must have a warped sense of humor. We hope to get the track cleaned and the train running on Sunday, time will tell.

The Ponds

2009-04-11T04:23:00.000-07:00

The weather proved to be delightful and the wallpaper removal chore has been put on hold. I had to be outside. The ponds get emptied in the spring and it is a most distasteful, revolting chore. They are smelly, full of leaves, water, lord knows how many bacteria. Unbeknown to me, it is easier to remove the leaves and pump out the water, oh well, lesson learned. I began cleaning the screen porch and took my time filling buckets from the ponds along with this cleaning endeavor. Ten buckets at a time, 225 gallons in all. The gardens are extremely dry so they enjoyed a bucket of water randomly. The river gets trashed by the critters, they push all the rocks into the channel so that has to be cleaned as well. The bird feeder has been moved, never to be close to the river again. The finches drop more seed than they consume! What a mess, and then, the warning about salmonella, so rubber gloves were a necessity. DONE! It is currently filling with water from the sump pump, ever so slowly. The waterfall provides a soothing noise barrier and the birds love it, not to mention the squirrels. It looks much better when the plants reappear.

The Wreckroom Rejuvinated

2009-03-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Our "Rec Room" was so dated. It had dark paneling, nice expensive paneling, but very dark. The ceiling was atrocious, all one large expanse and very difficult if not impossible to paint. You could always see your paint lines.

The Pella windows were from the 60's but not thermal pane. In order to close all of them you needed two people. One to crank the window from the inside and one to go outside to push on the window in order to lock it. Not a pleasant endeavor in the rain!

Thus the imaginative mind of Tony set to work. It is now our favorite room and we spend most evenings there. The replacement windows and skylights are Pella triple glazed thermal panes. The heat loss diminished and the room is toasty warm always-even during the frigid winters of 2008 & 2009. The room is much brighter and with the sky-lights you can enjoy the sky view, often you can read the paper without electricity. It's a great place for taking naps when the sun streams in through the large south window. The air conditioner still worked but I'm sure it was not very efficient. It had an installation date of July 1967 marked on top when we tore it out, so we replaced that as well. It is so quiet you don't even know it is running. We have huge trees that shade the whole south side of the house, so we hardly use air conditioning, another perk for Wisconsin! It is wonderful to have a handyman in the house!!!

Risk Assessment

2009-03-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

We work out three times weekly but still can not seem to lose weight. I guess we will have to start writing down everything we eat in order to take off the pounds. Once the weather improves, we will start biking to the health club. That should help. Bellinhealth has a heart attack risk assessment program for only $40.00. We plan to schedule appointments to identify and control certain risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
I went to the doctor today because I had an eye problem, it was all red due to broken blood vessels. It is fine now but scared me half to death. Sorry kids, I'm still kicking, you'll have to wait for your inheritance. The doctor reassured me that the condition had nothing to do with high blood pressure but my blood pressure is too high, 132/80. I was sure I was in trouble because once the blood started to disappear, the white of my eye turned brownish-yellow. Yuck, scary and gruesome. Now, if I could control that look for Halloween..........

The rainy season has begun, it has rained most of the night and all day so far. Really cold and dreary but we need the rain..
This is nothing compared to the people who live by the Red River. Our hearts go out to them with their flooding problems.

I volunteered to assist with a home remodel/landscaping today. We have an ex Marine who has severe disabilities due to three experiences in the Persian Gulf, Somalia, and Iraq. Many area businesses are donating services, products, and labor for his home remodel. He is only 36 and has purchased a large older home that he is now unable to remodel. I figure I can do pick up duty, painting, donate many of my perennials,. whatever they need........ There must be something a little old lady can do, maybe I could babysit their kids so they could enjoy an evening out.

SNOW! NO MORE SNOW!

2009-03-21T05:09:00.000-07:00

We woke up this morning to more snow. Yesterday was the first day of spring and the last day of work prior to spring break! Spring-the word is spring, flowers budding, green grass, warm temperatures, bike riding, walking without fear of falling on the ice, washing the car.........
NO MORE SNOW! OK, Now I have that hissy-fit out of the way.

Today is a special day for Tony, he has become one of the sage members of society and is now at the milestone of the grand age of 65. You would have known this date was coming due to the abnormal amount of junk mail relative to health care insurance we have been receiving for the last 6 months. I am sure we have surpassed the national average of 13,000 pieces of junk mail per year per family.

I have decided to begin reading non-fiction, finally, and have found that my desire for this non-fiction has become an insatiable thirst. I have moved from the likes of Piccoult, Sparks, Evans, Crichton, to the realm of O'Reilly, Hannity, Beck, and Huckebee. I am amazed at the lull or I should say, the vacuum I have been entrenched in. A black hole more or less even though I pride myself on not watching the shallow content on TV.

Please pray for my grandchildren, especially one lost soul who we are desperately trying to salvage. The world is such a beautiful place but there are so many temptations.

Tomato Harvesting

2009-03-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

It was wonderful having a screen porch.
We had cherry tomatoes well into November and enjoyed many salads with fresh tomatoes! Barry and Margaret came to visit prior to Thanksgiving and they brought CJ, better known as the "Tomato Harvestor", with them! We had so much fun watching him select and pick every tomato on the plants. I can hardly wait until next year when he helps us harvest again!

Heaven on Earth-45th.Wedding Anniversary

2009-02-21T09:28:00.000-08:00

We have been together a long time,celebrating our 45th. wedding anniversary! I feel more love with each passing day. I appreciate all your skills, there has never been a project or a problem that you were unable to solve. I'm lucky to have you. In this uncertain and everchanging world, you have brought caring and warmth.
You understand my faults and still love me! We have experienced laughter, joy, and sorrow and traveled through the best and worst of times. There are many shared memories and future plans. What a history we have together! I ask nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you! You are indeed my best friend, my greatest desire. Love always,

Where Does The Time Go???

2009-01-29T18:00:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's Friday tomorrow, the days fly by. Remember when you were a kid and you wished your life away? It seemed like you couldn't wait for kindergarten, middle school and then high school. Wow, to be 16 and be able to drive, and then 18, going off to college or on your own, finding your own way.

Live and love each day, life is short. I went to a wake this week for one of my former students. She was one of those "peach" students, straight A and just a honey. I guess God likes a few of those around him too. She was far too young, 37, stage 4 cancer, that insidious disease.
I shall never get over being robbed of my mom at the ripe old age of 20. She was only 46 and Penny was a pre-schooler. It was hard to never have a mom to confide in and share in my children's lives.

It is so uplifting to read about CJ. What a cutie, I love the way mom is teaching him to measure pretzels. It brings us joy to see all the pictures of the grandkids on the blog sites-way to go Margaret and Carol.

I Could Get Used to This

2009-01-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

Another day off! I can't remember the last time we had two days off for cold weather but I am enjoying every minute of it.(the time off, not the bitter cold) It was -17 with a wind chill of 32-40 below. I am trying to remember why I like Wisconsin. Tonight it is supposed to be -25 and on Saturday 3-6 inches of snow.

Girl scouts started selling cookies today so spring must be just around the corner.

When it's still dark on the drive to work and dark when one leaves work, it is definitely woodworking season in the toasty warm basement. This is the start of our new desk, total disaster. (wife's opinion) She could not imagine the finished project.
Never judge a project until it's completed. The desk was the the final touch on the remodel of our rec. room. We needed a place to put the computer other than the dining room table.

My winter hobby starts in the fall and goes through the end of May. It moves from furniture building to home improvements. I look at woodworking and home improvement projects as entertainment, not work. It sure beats looking at the "tube" every night even if it's only for an hour or so.

The desk was a brain child after we remodeled our kitchen. We liked the granite counter top in the kitchen and decided to use it on the desk top.
Thus the finished product, almost, the next step will be adding some type of book shelves above the desk. The final design hasn't been determined yet, still in the planning stages.

Pat admits that the desk did turn out classy! One needs much patience, putting it together was like figuring out a large jigsaw puzzle.

Cold Weather Day

2009-01-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

Today was a pleasant surprise!

There was no school due to a -44 degree wind chill. I slept in, late, 6:30 A.M. It was a treat, putzed around and finally went to the fitness center for a workout. I just can't seem to lose weight unless I work out. We are diligently working out three times a week. Once you get into the routine, it's not bad but I had muscles I didn't know existed the first week.

2009-01-11T06:15:00.001-08:00

This is my first post ever and I'm not sure of what I am doing. My daughter-in-law said with my computer expertise this would be easy, yeah right!

We are living in the cold and surviving, hardly. We have broken the record for the most snow in December since 1887, over 46 inches! Temperatures forecast for next week are supposed to be well below zero, yippee! I keep reminding myself that I love the four seasons and that I love each season equally, winter is beginning to lose favoritism especially after the ice storm last week.

Since I teach in Green Bay,WI, students will be in for the entire week at school. I'll let you know about my survival next Friday.

It will be a day of football playoffs but that's OK because it's tooooooooooooo cold outside to consider any other activity than couch potato.