What a wonderful day!!!!!! Christmas with Bob, Ann, Walt, Mary, and Susan! Weather not so good, but an atmosphere of love and wonderful spirit prevails. Bob came back after a long time getting well from his broken vertebra and it was really good to be all together. We even had good food!!

Bob is back officially from the rehab as of Dec. 22. I asked Bob how he felt, and said he "feels in love with a girl in a pink shirt." That's ME!

Walter, Mary and Susan came from PA, Annie is here from Long Beach, and Melvin, here for home care, is reading a good book. Glad to hear from Mary Jo, Doug and Sheri. About to call Janet, Karyn, and everyone in Kansas.

More later---

A friend from our very young age came to visit today. Mike Armstrong
lived across the street on 27th St. in Parsons, Ks. He is now retired, and lives on an island off Florida. He's had a very exciting life, but is VERY happy to be out of the rat race now.

Bob is walking better now, but I didn't get to go see him today. I'm hoping that he'll be home permanently for Christmas. He came home yesterday and ate Thanksgiving Dinner with me down in our Village dining room. He will be here all day tomorrow with some help to see that he doesn't fall again.

I'm afraid that I have the pink eye. I will probably spend half the day taking care of that. Oh well, with Bob here, that's the very important thing! Take care==Marian

It was a nice day here today in that it didn't rain, and it wasn't cold. Bob is working hard on being able to walk so he can come home for good, but will come home tomorrow so that he can go to Thanksgiving dinner down in our dining room. It will be wonderful to have him here for even just a short while. My afternoon was spent visiting him, and trying to stay awake after I got back. This sleeping problem is of some concern, and I can't find a good book to give me a reason to stay awake. I have a great desire for a visit to Kansas, but no chance of doing it. HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ONE AND ALL=====Marian

This is the third night that I have had crazy dreams. Last night I dreamed that a bunch of high school students were practicing dance steps for some up-coming program. This was fine, except that they were doing it on my bed while I was trying to sleep===Marian

Lonesome without Bob, but spent the afternoon with him at the rehab place. He's improving, and it's hopeful that he'll be home by Christmas. As Ann and Joe, and Walt, Mary and Susan will be here for Christmas, we should have a great time.

I find that every time I sit down on the davy, I go to sleep, so I got some light-weight books (some call them "airplane books" to read. Hope they do the job of keeping me awake most of any day.

I'm excited about colder weather. I've always liked these Southern winters. Woops, the doorbell==tis my night meal. I'll write more in my blog in the morning. Marian

One Dozen Yellow Roses for ME!

Bob is still in re-hab. He wants to come home, and I'm going crazy because he isn't home. Here is a story that happened during his stay: He wanted his credit card while in there, but the nurse that was with us was quite positive that he should NOT have it. There were reasons that he should not have it in that environment. But he held out and kept his credit card. NOW we all know why: A dozen yellow roses arrived here the next day - such beautiful ones! The credit card came home too. Oh, what a man he is!!!!

Without Bob here, it's hard to stay awake. I'm hoping Les and Mary Jo will come up and add some life not only to Bob's life, but to mine.

News from here is nil. I sleep a lot--dreamed that my Mother slept with me all night last night, but she left this world some years ago. Wish she had been there by my side.

Just talked to Ann--they are having cold weather outside. Not what I think of the weather when I thing of Southern California.

Hope everyone has a really good day==Marian

A lonely day today as Bob is still in re-hab. I didn't get to visit with him as I had a doctor's appointment over in Ark, Ark. We left here after lunch, but didn't get back until 5 o'clock. Don't have to go again for another month. Talked to Janet about the election report on T. V. She liked it, and I found it most dull. I often find it the most exciting program of the year, but not so this year. I've listened to more TV since Bob isn't here than I've ever listened to before. Some is good, but all of it is time consuming====Marian

Bob is better, but not home. Surely miss him.

I have two good books, but so far I've just been sitting on the sofa, and falling to sleep. I'd say my days and nights are full of 8 hours of sleep at night, and 6 in the day time. That leaves enough time for food, showers, dressing and listening to the news. HMMMMMMM Marian

So this is the day we are supposed to go back an hour, but I must admit I went back a day. I took the trash out to the street a whole day late. Suppose I'll have to go back out after it pretty soon. Oh what a life!!! Marian

Astronauts cast their ballots from space. They set a good example for those of us on the ground who don't realize how important it is to vote. This time I'm talking to myself. Sorry, Marian

Bob is still in rehab, and wants to vote anyway.

As for me, I lead such a luxiously care free life, that I don't have to know what day it is!!!! Marian

A REPORT

Bob is in rehab, and learning to walk again, and I've been sick too, but daughter Ann is here, and I hope you can understand just how much that means. Ken brought over a watermelon the other day. What a delightful, refreshing gift!!!! I hope you are enjoying this wonderful weather. Marian

OUR DAY

Bob's in rehab now, and Ann took him his morning coffee this morning, a most welcome gift. He has requested cereal covered in fruit in the morning. Wonder how soon he might expect his entire food for the day! Also they shaved off his beard but didn't give him a hair cut, so Ann and I plan to braid his hair tomorrow. The doctor has implied that it will take 3 or 4 more weeks before he comes home.

Ann and I went to Arkadelphia this afternoon, for a short visit with my Doctor. The weather was perfect, and our Buick (Vance Elizabeth) couldn't have given us a better ride. Ann will be here the rest of the week, and Walt is coming next Wednesday---the silver lining of Bob's troubles.

We actually saw rain (that is water from heaven) over in Arkadelphia today. It lasted far too short a time-------Hope you saw some too, Marian

Didn't write on the blog this morning because I was sick. Had no ambition for anything. But joy of all joys, daughter Ann came from Long Beach, and is taking care of me. I'm much better tonight. Bob is in rehab, and getting therapy to help get back the strength of his legs. Still don't know when he can come home.

I've been told to both eat more food and drink more water. One doesn't get such instructions very often, and so I'm taking advantage of them now. Marian

Bob is to be moved to a re-hab place today--it was to have been yesterday, but the doctor didn't release him. Keep you posted.

Hate to say it, but there wasn't anything in the papers that I wanted to remember today. So I hope to get started on the good book Ann sent me to read in my waiting for Bob to get HOME time. I really miss him. Have a fine day today, Marian

Bob is to be moved to a re-hab today called the PINES. I'll keep you posted.

I'm so ashamed of that Church in Topeka , Kansas---I hate to admit that there are people in Kansas (or anywhere else in the world) like that.

Looks to be another perfect weather day--enjoy, Marian

Bob will be moved to a rest home (they call them something else here) today, and it will be close enough for me to drive to see him. Whooppeee

Had a great time in Arkadelphia yesterday--lovely lunch at Mary Ella's, and a good visit with the doctor. Have a good day--Marian

Bob was sleepy when we were there yesterday, but that didn't stop him from calling me at 2 am!!!!!!!! Have to go to Arkadelphia today--perfect day for it. Have a good one---Marian

A New Week

I slept until eight o'clock this morning--first time in YEARS! Haven't even had a call from Bob, so I hope he is sleeping late too. We had a nice visit yesterday, but still no word about when he can come home.

Have a lot to do today. Maybe it will keep me from talking to myself! Have a good day, Marian

SUNDAY

The thing that caught my eye this morning was the fact that some team lost a game because they had too many players on the field!!!! Bob sounded good this morning. Will see him this afternoon. Enjoy the weather, Marian

I get so tired of ordering things over the phone and getting a non-human answer. I never know if anyone really gets my message--yuk yuk. But Bob sounded good this morning over the phone when he called. He thought he would be getting me up, but I'd been up for hours! Ha Ha.
Hope that I can get out to see him this afternoon-----Marian

Bob came through the Operation in good shape. They fused the vertebrae with a piece of bone from a rib. I think I heard the phrase "in about a week" about coming home, but I'm not going to count on it.

Best news in the paper this morning was that "the panel" (?) refused to raise the rate on stamps 2 cents! Have a lovely day today--Marian

An Operation This Morning

Bob's being operated on sometime this morning as they thought that his neck was healing too slowly. I wish I were there, but will go out this afternoon.

The paper this morning mentioned a new planet, perhaps capable of having life! And from to sublime to the ridiculous, another story about fighting over one dollar! Have a good day--Marian

Bob seemed in good spirits yesterday when I visited him. He told me that he'd gotten to take a shower with a beautiful lady---thought that was great. Doesn't that sound like good spirits?

I've had some wonderful messages wishing Bob well. They are all gratefully received!!!! Marian

TUESDAY

Am going out to see Bob this afternoon--taking a bunch of crossword puzzles for him to help me with. He's a whizz at crosswords--

Problem here: our NEW washing machine failed to let rinse water out--hope the people here can fix it. Well, the weather is perfect anyway---enjoy, Marian

MONDAY

Bob's spirits were better yesterday, but he's in such an uncomfortabel position that he can't read. Plan to see him this afternoon.

Got a double yolk in my egg this morning--lucky, and I got the trash out on time! Am going to a practice for the Kitchen Band --yes, they are preparing for a program on Halloween. I'm told that even the Andrew Singers will be expected to perform. The day looks as if it is beautiful--hope it is everywhere---Marian

SUNDAY

Bob just slept yesterday: our visit was too soon after a sleeping pill!

This living alone is for the birds--but I'm working at it. People have been so helpful and kind and I shall never know how to thank them.

The cooler weather is WONDERFUL. Have a good day--Marian

Improvement

Bob was in better spirits when we saw him yesterday. He was no longer in I C U, and I think that helped. I guess I don't have anything else to say today---Marian

Bob was not very cheery yesterday. Staying in one position is very exhausting, and the position is such that he can't read, so on top of everything else, he is bored. I'm told that he won't be home soon as it is so important to keep that brace in just the right position. Please send him your love--

I really miss him, but am good at getting the trash out, and fixing breakfast. I do have to admit that his breakfast making is MUCH better than mine.

We are promised cooler weather tomorrow. Hope the promise is a good one--we all need it. Marian

Today's Update on Bob

Saw Bob yesterday --he was in good spirits, but will not have an operation. They put a big neck brace on him that he has to wear until his neck heals.

I'm lonesome, but am getting along . Mary Jo and I will go out to see him again this afternoon.

Marian

Bad News

Bob's at St. Joseph Hospital in Hot Springs with a broken neck bone and some blood in his head. Mary Jo and I visited him this morning and will go back this afternoon. The doctor hadn't been in to see him yet when we were there. Will keep you posted==Marian

to ARKADELPHIA

We're going to Arkadelphia today. More later Marian

MONDAY

I'm a little slow today--but just so that I get ready to go to lunch, I'll be OK. We found a really nice girl --Amy-- who will do our shopping for us once a week. Lucky us. I think Bob will be able to drive the cart down to lunch today==real progress. Have a good one, and stay out of the heat-Marian

SUNDAY

Here it is Sunday again. The papers are read, breakfast has been served, and its time to get ready for the day, which is to be hot but not humid. There, that's all I know---but I hope you know more, and have a good one---Marian

Pictures of The Kitchen Band

The Andrews Sisters I'm in the middle

The Concert Scene: Performers upfront and the audience foreground.

BUT JUST DON'T WORRY---

The Newspaper gave us two things to worry about today: whooping cough epidemic and earthquakes in the New Madrid Fault. What a way to start the day!!!! Marian

NOT MUCH

The Kitchen Band did a good job as did the Andrews Sisters trio. I'm not bragging: just stating a fact. I have two pictures to put on the blog which I will try to do later today.

Nothing of interest to the blog in the paper today except that the Fish and Game Commission has more cars assigned to them than they have members of the Commission-----there will be lots of talk about that for a time----See, not much to write about today. Marian

WASP STINGS

There was a report in the paper of some man that got 1,200 stings from wasps---1,200!! Just imaginining 100 stings RUINED MY DAY!!! Stay away from bees and wasps today--if you can--Marian

I'd put a picture of our kitchen band on the blog if I could, Jim---a job for you the next time you come. I have the pictures----Marian

REPORT

The really good news is that Bob seems better--he was able to do the shopping yesterday, but still doesn't have much energy.

More exciting news: the kitchen band concert was so good that we have to repeat it Wednesday. How about that? I know you all wish you could be there-------Marian

TODAY

Gorgeous day: vapor trails all over beautiful blue sky; day of "pick-up" in the house, but apparently no practice for the kitchen band! We "wowed" them so much in the cancert that we can take a vacation-----some favors in this world after all! Enjoy our world today, Marian

LARGEST BAR IN THE WORLD---

Well I hope my chocolate loving friends see this: The Guinness Book of World Records certified a 9,702 pound chocolate bar as the largest bar in the world! It is 18.6 feet long, 9 feet wide and 10 inches thick. George, drool! Myself, I prefer lemon----Have a good day today, and lots of chocolate if you like it---Marian

WON A SOLITAIRE GAME

Well, the day is started in good form as I won one of my six solitaire games, and had a good breakfast. It's Saturday, so I'll wear my jeans. No special plans. Just got a call from the office to call Cary Knoop. Guess I have neglected keeping him posted on our current events. It will be fun to call Cary and Marge. Take care of yourselves, and get in touch with one of your favorite friends! Marian

MAPLE SYRUP

I've already thrown away the paper that had a "funny" in it, so I won't quote it exactly. The story was about Maple Syrup--it said that it wasn't pure as advertised. And that it had only 4% maple in it. Well, what a shock! I always thought it was great to have pure, sugar-free maple syrup for my waffles and pancakes. That's the "shocker" for the day. Have a good one--day, that is, not a "shocker"---Marian

SO-SO DAY

Just a so-so day. Cloudy, a doctor's appointment, clothes to put away after all the washing yesterday, but a wonderful breadfast. Hope you have a good day--Marian

Wednesday

Our washing machine that we moved here in January JUST GAVE OUT! But we used the money coming out of Bob's ears to get another that will be delivered today. We have at least three loads ready to go-----ugh. I made bread this morning--hurrah!

We had a successful visit in Arkadelphia yesterdeay even though it sprinkled some--Marian

Tuesday

The Kitchen Band Concert was a success--big audience: had to bring in extra chairs. Glad it's over!

Today we go to Arkadelphia for hair and doctor's appointments. It's raining, which is welcome, but it COULD have waited until we got back----

Success to you today---Marian

KITCHEN BAND;

This is a BIG day--the Kitchen Band gives its concert tonight!!! Our trio "lipsinks" our number too. Big last practice --dress rehersal (aprons and hats and canes) this morning. Wish us luck! Marian

SUNDAY

It's almost a normal Sunday with Bob back home again. The crossword puzzles were hard, and the news in the paper wasn't exciting. The weather is so perfect that we turned off the AC, and opened our three doors to the outside air. Hope each of you has a great day today too, Marian

Bob's home!!! Got in about 9 o'clock after I'd given up. He says he is weak after 4 days in bed, but otherwise seems in good spirits.

Did you notice in the paper that some guy was smuggling 95 boa constrictors and the bag holding them broke open and let them all loose to roam the Kuala Lumpur International Airport? Imagine what it would have been like to have been there----well, hope you have a snake-less day, today, Marian

PROGRESS REPORT

Bob is supposed to come home today, and I will be glad if he does---I miss him, to say the least. But things are under control, and Ken has been an angel (I hope that I spelled that right--he has wings), and will help bring him home when he is let loose. It's a beautiful day and I hope we all have a chance to enjoy it---Marian

BOB

Bob will be staying in the hospital one more day for still more tests. He wants the paper, another book, his shoes and some more pens and pencils to give away, and some money. Doesn't that sound like him? I'm glad they are keeping him one more day---Marian

STROKE

Life in our ninties is full of surprises: Bob had a slight stroke yesterday, and is in the hospital getting wonderful treatment: millions of tests, and TLC. He hopes to be home tomorrow. This serves as a warning to be more careful about what we do. Aren't we glad we're settled over here? Will report progress. Marian

FANCY DINNER

I very seriously considered going back to bed this morning. But didn't as we are having a fancy, candle-light dinner here tonight, and we are signed up to go. When they announced that it was a formal dinner, I knew Bob was OK as he had brought his tux over to the village when we moved. I don't even own a dress, so asked the manager what was meant by "formal." ( I have a clean pair of white pants with good creases in them, and a pretty blouse, and hoped they'd do.) His answer? "Oh, anything but shorts."-------WELL, so I didn't go back to bed. Marian

TRIVIA

Things that caught my eye in the paper this morning:
l. Imagine the dictionary on line and not on paper?!
2. Warnings not to buy an electric car if there were no way to "fill 'er up" in town: Well, dah!
3. I saw nothing about eggs, but I might have missed something.
4. Two men in Texas had the same name, same birth date, and both carried a Texas driver's
license but luckily didn't have the same finger prints.
5. The Martins are flocking to leave, a sure sign of fall.
I was tempted to go back to bed--------Marian

SUNDAY

Had a great time in Bismarck yesterday---and Happy Birthday today, Kay. Make it last as long as you can!!!!!

Today, Sunday, looks like a "catch-up" day, and a take-it-easy day. The papers weren't too interesting, and the Crossword puzzles were too hard for pleasure. Still have a book to finish, and 8 more of the good ones waiting to be read.

So far the weather looks cloudy, so it might just be comfortable out there. There is a Julia Roberts film here at the theaters----- Well, anyway, have a good day---Marian

BISMARCK

We had my very favorite food for our night meal --tomato and bacon sandwiches, thanks to Ken.

I'm going over to Bismarck to have lunch with my art group today. It's the first time I've been for a long time, and I'm all excited. They are such a nice, genuine group of women ! Lucky me!
Marian

WEEKEND COMING

It's Friday, which still is the harbinger of the weekend for any teacher. There's just that little bit of excitement that another week is over, and you have "self-time" before starting still another week of work.. I still have the feeling, and I've been retired for thirty years! It is just a feeling, as I could do anything I want to on any day of the week now. But still there's that bit of excitement because it's Friday. Others beside teachers feel it too, I'm sure, and I hope each and everyone has a wonderful, revitalizing weekend that's just ahead. Marian

THREE CUPS OF TEA

While my computer was down, there was a report in the paper about the spread of the message in the book THREE CUPS OF TEA. The 2nd headline read " Military embraces author's tips on winning trust in Afghanistan". It also said that the "phrase 'three cups of tea' has entered the American troop lexicon as shorthand for any leisurely, trust-building chat with locals." It was a real attitude builder for me---hope, even. Hope you saw it---and also felt encouraged. Marian

CATCH -UP

THANKS FOR DOING BLOG
ANN IS WONDERFUL PERSON (A Japanese Poetry Form)
I AM SO LUCKY--

Im' back at the computer again. There was a plug out, but can't you just see me down under the desk trying to find the hole and putting it back? If I had tried it, I'd be there still. It was worth the $40 bucks to have the expert do it---

We went to Arkadelphia yesterday only to hear that there was a bank robber loose, and that everyone should lock up. OBU locked the entire colloge up, but the man and some of the money were found. Also, according to the paper, there is a man over in Arkadelphia who is entering houses at night and watching people sleep. He is in the nude. Now you probably thought that we moved over here because we are old, but 0000hhhh bank robbers and nude men?
I'm so glad the computer is fixed!!!! Marian

A "Guest Poster"

Mom's computer is still down, but I can get into her blog from mine, so I think I'll add today's post:

When I was a young child, I was shy and scared of doing many things. Mom had a bracelet that I adored: It was like a charm bracelet with huge shiny colorful stones hanging from the chain. Mom named it "The Courage Bracelet" and let me wear it whenever I had to do something scary. That was WONDERFUL! It got me through many difficult situations.

When I was an adult, Mom gave me The Courage Bracelet for Christmas one year. What a great present! And since then, we've sent it back and forth when one of us has had to face something difficult.

Now, Mom would end this post by saying: Find your Courage Bracelet and wear it whenever you need it.

-Ann

Today's Post

I'm to report that Mom's computer is acting up and she can't post anything today. Tomorrow the "computer people" will come to fix it, so she'll be back after that.

Hope you are having a good weekend.

-Ann

THE PAPER SAID---

The Paper said this morning that the moon is getting smaller. I thought I had noticed that, hadn't you? And another item of interest was that the Prime Minister of England, in an effort to lower their huge debt, asked for people--ordinary citizens--to suggest ways to save money and lower the debt. He got hundreds of answers. If Pres. Obama asked for suggestions, from our citizens, what do you think he would get? Do you have any ideas? Let's help lower our national debt today. Marian

THE ROUTINE

By now we seem to have established a routine (rut?) to our days. Up around 6am to read the papers and do crosswords; decide whether we will or will not do our exercises (too many nots) at 8am; Bob's wonderful breakfast followed by 6 games of solitaire each; by now it's time to do dishes, pick up and make the bed; answer the daily wrong number; and now dress as it's lunch time and we must be ready to eat. Mail comes at noon, so we come home to read and throw it away, and by now, the afternoon is ours. We read. Then at news time (5pm) we listen to 1 and 1/2 hours of news. Time to eat again, and since we belong to Netflex, we watch a movie. By gum, it's now bed time again. A few breaks in the days are: a call from Ann on Friday plus a good visit from Mary Jo and Ken, and on Monday we participate in the Kitchen Band (don't ask)About every two weeks we go to our various appointments in Arkadelphia and have lunch with friends. My goodness, I'm sleepy--or am I bored? Have you checked your routine lately? Marian

TWO BIG THINGS TO BE THOUGHT ABOUT TODAY: COMBAT TROOPS OUT OF IRAQ, AND SCHOOLS START TODAY------MARIAN

Oh JOY! He came, and the rug looks LOVELY!!! Good day after all, and it's only 11:30am Marian

COMPLAINTS

And still the carpet cleaner hasn't arrived. Some things annoy me far more than they should, as when we change our schedule to accommodate something, I want them to follow through as they have said they will. Well, that makes me unique!

Had three answers to my blog yesterday in response to my not having anything to say. Do I express my opinions that much? Don't answer that!

Nothing really happened yesterday; the worst thing was a broken finger nail. What a nuisance!

Take care, Marian

A BLANK

This is an unusual thing for me: and I hope you appreciate it. It happens very seldom: I CAN'T THINK OF ANYTHING TO SAY!!!!! Perhaps tomorrow-----Marian

CARPET CLEANING DAY

We were all up and dressed by 8:30 for several reasons, one of which that they are coming to clean our carpets today!!!!! But it is now almost 10, and they have yet to arrive. We skipped our exercises (a real disappointment, of course, ) and tried to do the cross words too hurriedly. Oh well, such is life-----take iteasy. Marian

Miscellaneous

l. Aren't the melons, cantaloupe and watermelons good? Peaches too,Ken , though they are still ripening. 2. I read in the newspaper that friendships keep one alive. That must be true as we have had both long lives and lots of wonderful friends. 3. I make our Christmas cards every year, and I see on the calendar that it's time to start thinking of ideas. 4. I'm trying to beat the salt habit (heard this before?) so I gave up my perfect egg-toast-sausage breakfast for cereal. It was horrible 5. Still have to finish Andre Agassi's biography, which I find very interesting. What he had to go through to be the "best" is unbelievable---but a little thought shows that to be the "best" of anything the person must have to really work and even sacrifice.
6. Well, that's all. Have a good day-----Marian

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Today is our 40th anniversary. I remember Day One vividly. I remember that the preacher in the service started to say, "this young couple"---but gave a long pause before saying "couple" and final said. "this young AT HEART couple". Than as we walked up the aisle afterward, Bob's grandson yelled out in a loud voice, "GRANDDAD". But it was a nice wedding with family and friends there. And it's been a great 40 years since. Bob has often said that if we get to the 50th, he planned to get me a sable fur coat. I'm NOT GOING TO HURRY TOWARD THAT LANDMARK---Hope you enjoy our day too. Marian

JUST A "SO-SO' DAY

This is the kind of day that comes along once in a while where nothing is of any consequence. Some guy was operated on for a cancer on his lung, only to have them find a sprouted pea. Another fellow was reported to have been fined for licking a frog. We don't even have any Netflix movies. The predicted temperature is 101. One plus to the day is that we go to lunch at the Country Club again as guests of the Hot Springs Henderson alum, and hopefully our usual Friday visitors will drop by. I guess that I'm glad that I finished my absorbing book that took up so much time in this week, and can start a new one. But now it's time for exercising---oh what a day! Good luck to you--Marian

ORANGE IS TODAY'S COLOR

There's nothing scheduled on the docket today except the daily lunch. SOOOO I can finish my book, send pictures via e-mail to family and friends, and work with my new clay supply which Ann sent for my birthday. You can't imagine how beautifully she can wrap presents, and these were no exception. They had tags of great sentiment and bright orange patterned paper with orange bows. Luckily, I had on my orange pants to match! Ha! Marian.

OUR CAR

Our lovely car drove so well, was very responsive to our wishes, looked so good, that we were really happy on the way to Arkadelphia yesterday. BUT we realized that we never have given her---him---it a NAME. It should be dignified, and meaningful. So we found a name.. He-she --or it is now VANCE ELIZABETH! Be kind to your car, and she, he or it will want a name-----that's real bonding!!!! Marian

TO ARKADELPHIA

Today we are going into Arkadelphia for hair and doctor's appointments--and it's still hot. One good thing about it is that I'll get to drive to--Bob always drives fro. And I must say, I won both the solitaire games this morning, a very unusual occasion. Also had two "just-right" eggs. Guess with that good start to our day, we should have a fine time. And THE SAME TO YOU! Marian

SLOWED DOWN

I guess I've been retired over here at CC Village too long--I no longer can do three things at once! It would have been easy and natural to do three things at once a year ago, but today ----can't do it. Sad. I guess I'll just have to not have three things to do at once anymore. Slow down, friends----Marian

SUNDAY PAPERS

We very much enjoy the Sunday Papers, especially the book page and the Cross Word Puzzles. The one in the Gazette is very hard except, maybe once a year. And that once a year is always a great one for me. Usually, however, Bob does the one in the Gazette, and I do the one in the the Sentinel, the Hot Springs paper. Even on weekdays it is easier. Today, Sunday, I'm in the progress of "tearing up" the Hot Springs one, and because I am, the rest of the day will reflect the happy feeling I always get from doing successfully some cross word---- (I should add that Bob always gets them all---)

Happy day to you too----Marian

WEDDING ANNIVERSARYS

It's getting to be anniversary time for Ann and Joe, and Bob and me. Walt and Mary were married in June, if I remember correctly. Bob and I were at both of their weddings, and remember the pleasure we felt at all of them.

After our wedding, Bob and I played golf, visited caves and ate a lot for a week, then went back and got Walt and Ann and friends and went on another week. The newspaper's report of our wedding ended by saying, "and the group returned from the honeymoon-----"

More to say about ours next week on the 14th------Marian

DECKS OF CARDS

One of the commenters to the blog about playing solitaire which mentioned that l6 of us use to play at a time, asked if we had to have a deck of cards each when we played. And indeed we did. We must have had 20 or 30 old decks around for use in the game. It didn't really matter if they were missisng a card--in fact it helped us to find out who won the game, as we added up the cards left in our hands, and the player with the least cards was the winner.

The cards were also used to build towns by making cards stand on their sides and hold a top one. This was a building, and many more made a city. I've seen "towns" that covered the entire living room floor. And it wasn't too many years ago that Walt and Ann came home for a visit, and built a city of cards. ( Granddaughter Susan helped in this venture.) Walt had even brought some little cars which gave even more reality to their buildings. I have pictures to prove all of this-----So save your old card decks: they have GREAT value-----Marian

TEN GOOD BOOKS AT ONCE!

I'm reading about 11 girls who grew up together in Ames, Iowa. This book is very interesting, as the author traced their lives from their births through their 40's and showed the loyalty, and belief in each other that not only supported each through the good times in life, but also the bad. I've had some wonderful friends in my life, but have outlived any with whom I grew up. Now let me tell you the true luxury that I have now. All of a sudden, and I don't know how it happened, I have TEN books piled up that I can hardly wait to read!!!!. For at least five weeks, I won't be conscious of the weather at all. By then it will be time to think about Fall and Winter----How lucky can I be? Marian
I

THE DAY'S START

Just finished our exercises---ones where we follow a tape and are directed about what to do. It takes about 25 minutes; we use dumb bells, and a chair. They aren't too strenuous, but they do help IF IF IF we keep them up. Not much in the paper that gave excitement or good feelings, but the crosswords were fairly easy. Now it's time for the super breakfast that Bob makes, and our day will be on its way. We have company for lunch, and I have 3 good books that should last a long time. Don't plan to pay any attention to the heat---at least, that's my plan. Will it work? Relax, friends, and have some fun today. Marian

SOCIAL SOLITAIRE

We learned to play social solitaire ( throw all aces into the middle of the table, and everyone one plays on any ace as they can) at our Father's knee, so to speak. He would hold the youngest child on his lap until the child could play on his own, then take on the next youngest. We had lots of rules: no singing, no standing up, no play from anyone if and when Dad had to go to the phone, etc. We played often and many, many times through the years. I can remember as many as 16 in one game (did we all stand up for those in order to get all of us around the table? I don't remember.), and friends, and neighbors often joined in.

Bob and I still play solitaire after the morning and evening meals---keeping up the tradition, I guess. What family game do you remember? Marian ps Did you know that Zsa Zsa Gabor is 93 years old, and been married 9 times? Wow!!

SOCIAL SOLITAIRE

We learned how to play social solitaire (throw your aces into the middle of the table and everyone plays on any of them that they can) at our Father's knee. He would hold each youngest child on his lap as he played, and it wasn't long before that child could play, and then Dad would take the newest young one on to his lap. We had rules: no singing, no standing up; no playing if and while Dad had to go to the telephone, etc. We played a lot, and with a lot at one time. I remember that it wasn't uncommon to have 16 around the table at once (counting the youngun' on Dad's lap), and we played often.

Bob and I have kept up the tradition: we play solitaire after every morning and night meal.

What's your remembered family game? Marian

PS Could you have guessed that Zsa Zsa Gabor is 93 years old?

'DON'T WANNA'S'

I can already tell that this is going to be a "don't wanna " day--didn't wanna get up, don't wanna exercise, don't wanna get dressed or take a shower. I just plain don't wanna. These days come along once in a while, and I have to just live through them. BUT Bob just called me to breakfast, and so perhaps that will help today's "don't wannas". Hope you don't have them: they are so discourageing------Marian

SUNDAY

I'm writing Sunday's items tonight (Saturday) as we are going to see ANNIE at the dinner /theater in Little Rock tomorrow---there is a bus load going from the Village. Should be a pleasure.

A quote from THIS WEEK Magazine caught my eye: "The U.S. has been at war for 47 of the 230 years it has existed, or 20 percent of its history." from The New York Times

May your day be special---Marian

PILOTING: A THING OF THE PAST

I took lessons to learn to fly sometime in my late twenties, and in the process, soloed twice. I had a student pilots license, very official looking, and still one of my prized possessions. In the paper this morning, I read that it now takes 1500 flying hours in order for anyone to pilot a passenger plane. Reading that requirement, I sadly realized that another of my ambitions is impossible. Oh well, Bob still lets me drive the new car to Arkadelphia-----Take care of yourseves----Marian

STATE CARS, AND SUGAR IN GAS TANKS

I was surprised at the number of cars driven by the Highway Department (2,385)--more cars than there are people in many of the small towns in Arkansas. I have no opinion about these cars and the taxes paid on them, but it does remind me of the first car I bought for myself. It had been a state car, and served me well until I bought my first new one.

It was a small Buick. I was driving it to Colorado for vacation and went through XXX (a town that will remain nameless) where I had to buy gas. It was soon after an awful crime there that had been reported widely, and nosy me, I asked the attendant about it. Well, apparently so many people did this that the locals were sick of it. THE ATTENDANT PUT SUGAR IN MY GAS TANK, and I had to leave my car in the next town for repairs. So much for getting to drive my new Buick on vacation! ------- Hope nobody ever puts sugar in your car's gas tank----Marian

THIS AND THAT----

Walt, Susan and Mary just left---a good visit and so pleased to have had it. Bob is starting in the kitchen to clean up, and I'm starting in the bedroom and gathering stuff for the washing machine. --We will give ourselves 8 hours to make a dent------

I did get a glance at the morning paper, and was happy to see that some Senator is very much against the fact that the Post Office might drop Saturday mail delivery---he says it wouldn't save enough money to be worth while. I'd vote for him, but he's from Montana-----Marian

Walt, Mary & Susan

Walt, Mary and Susan came and some of us are going into Arkadelphia for the usual appointments today. Mary is going to get her hair fixed too, and Walter and Susan are staying here.

Had 3 inches of rain off and on yesterday, and much thunder and lightening. This is it for today----more tomorrow---but love anyway, Marian

COMPUTERS

My computer wouldn't turn on today - it did NOT tell me why! But Walter just got here, and with a push and a pull of some sort, he fixed it!!!!

The subject for the blog today is how wonderful it is to have a computer. I chose the subject before I even got up, so before it wouldn't turn on. And I do believe that my machines - I've had 4 - have added a great deal to my life. There has been frustration from the first, but that has made me learn to deal with the special kind of frustration that is caused me. BUT all the various good things that I can do with the computer have added SO MUCH TO MY LIFE---THOSE OF US WHO HAVE THEM FOR OUR PLEASURE HAVE, I'M SURE, LEARNED A LOT. It won't be many years, however, before everyone can do what Walter did---because having them will be so much a part of everyone's everyday life. So much for today------take care, Marian

THE DAY BETWEEN COMPANY

They got off at 8:00 as planned, and will arrive home in Kansas about 3:30 if all goes well. It was a wonderful weekend.

But we're not through with company. Son Walt, Mary and Susan come tomorrow. I'm now catching up on the newspapers, and doing washings. Retirement? I suppose it's how one looks at it--------

Love company-------Take care, Marian

SUNDAY

Well, we had a big, and wonderful day yesterday, and even more ideas that need consideration today! Love it, love it! The family members like the Sunday Morning talk shows, which we don't habitually listen to, and that, too, has been fun. I'll hate to see them go tomorrow---- no advice for you today----Marian

PORCH LIGHT_______

The brithday weekend is in full blast, and every room is filled. So what did Bob do? When his wake-up time came, (5:00 o'clock), he, not wanting to wake any one up, got the paper, turned on the porch light and read the paper out there=====he saw nothing strage about this-----Well, now that I think about it, I don't either,, night or day, get light, and read your paper whereever you want--porches included-----Marian

COOKING WITHOUT ENOUGH PANS

Janet, Pete and Mary will get here this afternoon---with our limited kitchen resources, you can imagine me scrambling around to get them a good evening meal to eat! Want to get it all done before they get here, which could be as early as 2pm. I have two small pans and a skillet-----will have to make my macaroni and cheese in two phases as I have no pan that will hold 3 quarts of water---fortunately, we bought a pan yesterday big enough to put it in the oven for final cooking, and the salad is done. We expect a wonderful weekend even if tomorrow is scheduled to be the hottest of the year-------Hope you can think of "cool"things to do as we are trying to do-----Marian

BIRTHDAY TWO

So I DO have a second birthday, and we ARE going to celebrate it as Bob is taking me to lunch at Zoe's today! Best intentions often get changed----why NOT celebrate even though Bob calculates my age now to be 184 years? -------Marian

BIRTHDAYS

My Mother said my birthday was July 20th, and I've always celebrated on that day. AND the Birth Certificate, when it came, said that I was born on July 22nd! SO I've celebrated that day too. But this year I had such a wonderful day in every way, that I have decided to forego celebrating tomorrow, the 22nd----even tho I have proof of its truth----I won't celebrate ----until tomorrow!!!! Take care---Marian

BIRTHDAY--JULY 20

TO ME, TO NELSON MANDELLA AND TO EVERYONE ELSE BORN ON THIS DAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! MARIAN

NIECE KARYN'S TRIP

My niece, Karyn, has much love for her Newfoundland Dog, and as all owners seem to do, keeps in touch with lots of other lovers of their Newfoundlands. Last week she and her dog, Arayo, started out on a cross country drive from her home on Bainbridge Island, Wa., staying in campgrounds on the way. There must be water near each place they stop as the dog can't stand the 109 degree heat they are experiencing. Her ultimate aim is somewhere in Vermont. She's reporting their adventures so far on Facebook and her blog, and today she reports they are in Montana, where the mosquitos by the hundreds caught up with her.

As she has no time limits and no real schedule, she hopes to visit many places, even her home down in Kansas and MAYBE even down here. And if she does the latter, you'll surely get a report! Enjoy life today: don't get too busy----Marian

NEPHEW REES

I have both a niece and a nephew that are traveling over parts of this country, and writing books about their experiences. I'll mention Rees first, a retired college administrator, who with a friend is walking the Pacific Trail and recording the experiences. I've read the book about the Atlantic Trail, and really liked it---couldn't imagine myself doing, or even thinking about it, but the story was most interesting. I've read a couple of Rees' chapters, and am waiting patiently for the book. Tomorrow, I'll write about Karyn and her adventures.

Enjoy today---Marian

RULE FOR LIFE & QUESTIONS

From a wonderful story honoring Jane Lucas in the TRI-LAKES Edition of June 27, I read a statement that she made that can be applied to most, if not all, of our relationships with people. Said Jane about her clients, "We used to control people; now we support them." A wonderful rule of action-- "Thanks, Jane, for being YOU."

I have questions about the oil spill--does any of that oil that they have pumped into ships get to refineries, and on into sales? Can all the oil in that vein run out?---soon or long time? Marian

FOOD WANTS

Cathy said to use Whole Wheat Bread in that sandwich recipe printed yesterday. I don't think it will help, but you can try it-----

Right now I'm hungry for Macoroni and Cheese as my Mother used to make it. And I'm on a Sherbet kick. And a little Piemento Cheese is on my list of "food wants" Do you have any food wants? Marian

Here's A Sandwich for You...

When I wake in the morning, I'm always hungry. I can visulize my egg-on-toast and am immediately ready to get up. We always, however, read the paper before breakfast. And in the newspaper this morning, this is what my eye caught as I was glancing through the cross word puzzle section:

Grilled Peanut Butter, Banana and Bacon Sandwich with Honey on Boulevard Bread Co. Ciabatta. It costs $8.00 Ugh. Hope reading about it didn't ruin your breakfast--Marian

ORANGE PANTS

My wardrobe this summer has included 4 pairs of white pants and various colored blouses. I suddenly was tired of always wearing those white pants even though the crease in them made them look "spiffy" (Janet's word). I got a pair of jeans from Blair, and wore them 5 days in a row. But I'm still tired of the white ones, so while in Arkadelphia yesterday, I bought some that are BRIGHT ORANGE ! Wow. Wait until you see me coming!!!!

Get some bright colors---it peps one up!!!! Marian

The trip to Arkadelphia went very well. Bob and I both did well at the doctors, and I got my hair fixed. Ate with 3 friends and were home by 3:30. Good day. Back in the bloggin' business in the morning. Marian

NO NEWS

Appointments in Arkadelphia today---take care of yourselves--Marian

VOCABULARY

There are three kinds of vocabularies----#l Reading (enigma, emulate, egregious)
#2 Talking (mystery, ape, bad)
#3 and those that leave you just as you need them

I've had lots of those lately-----Hope you haven't--Marian

MY DREAM--

I had a dream last night that I was selling a crate of ten evening dresses to China, but that one of the dresses needed to be repaired. "They" sent a huge Earth Moving Machine that came rolling up. It had a piece of dress material hanging from it which "it" dropped into the crate of dresses.
. The dress was repaired immediately, and what woke me up was that I was trying to push the Earth Machine out of the way, and the frustration I felt when it wouldn't get out of the way--------Well, I'm awake now, and all I want for the day is to be "calm, cool and collected"! I wish that for all the world-----Marian

A BLANK DAY---

I can't think of anything to say in this blog today. Now that's rather unusual as I HAVE ALWAYS been able to keep the talk going. So, if I can't think of anything to say today it's unusual; I guess this phenomenon belongs on the blog as part of being in my nineties! I don't think this blank-out will last long; it never has----May you speak your piece well today---Marian

SHRIMP

We are invited to lunch with the Hot Springs Henderson Alum group at noon today. It is held in the beautiful and impressive Country Club Building across the street. We are certainly glad to be asked, BUT AT A SACRIFICE. Once in a while here on Fridays, the noon meal has FRIED SHRIMP as the main dish. What a great meal that is! Well, I never ask after we get back what was served here----so I never know whether or not to be sad about missing the shrimp. And Bob, at long last, is to have his precious iMAC worked on. Great day, and you have one too---Marian

SADNESS

One of the people with whom we often ate, died this morning. We both feel a little shaky, as we really liked this couple. Too bad. Marian

WELL, EXPENSIVE STAMPS AND SPANKING?

The Post Office is asking for an added 2 cents to the cost of stamps (making one cost 46 cents) which would start in January. I wonder what Emily Post would say to that? Would she consider it good manners to send "thank-you notes" by computer now that stamps would be so expensive? Yes, I wonder.

I also noticed that there was quite a discussion about the value of spanking children. I can't remember if or whether I spanked mine. Can you?

It might rain today: I'm getting my hair set--a clear invitation for the skies to fall!. Take care, Marian

KITCHEN BAND; WALT; AND DAY'S SCHEDULE

The kitchen band is really a rhythm band where false or play instruments (lots of drums) are used to beat upon to the sound of records from the 40's era. Noisy, and jumpy. I remember a kitchen band as beating on kitchen pans to the rhythm of music as a part of New Year's Eve celebrations. It kept the kids in the kitchen while the adults celebrated in the living room------Will I join this band? Still up in the air----

Walt just left for the 3 weeks math workshop he teaches in Dallas to gifted high school students. It was a wonderful visit. He thought he was very funny when he got FOX news on the TV to tease us. We reacted as he expected----'nuff said.

Get my root canal this afternoon--expect to live through it------and good luck to all of you too! Marian

We finally heard some "pops: (fire crackers) last night in honor of the day---

There were several things in the paper this morning that weren't gloom and doom. Did you see that some fellow won a cherry pit spitting contest by spitting one for 51 feet and 3 inches? And I thought the "transition aerocar" pictured in the business section was exciting. Just sorry that I won't live long enough to drive/pilot one of them.

Walt, Bob and I are going to the weekly practive of the kitchen band today. Report on it later.

Possible rain predicted! Enjoy if----Marian

HAPPY HOLIDAY

HAPPY fOURTH OF JULY!

Here in the village, we haven't heard a fire cracker yet!!!! Marian

EARTHQUAKES

Walter comes today--just called to say that he's starting now (what's not?). Anyway, he gets here at 8.

The only news that is not the "usual" is that there were small--very small--earthquakes in Arkansas yesterday. Most of them nobody could feel--just measurable by seismographs. I suppose you could say that there's no need to worry---so we will have to find something else to worry about today.

O.K., but take the day off--- don't worry today--Marian

RANDOM THOUGHTS

I admired Sen. Byrd--and there is a quote in the paper this morning that I really liked. A new Senator asked him for advice about how to be a good Senator. He supposedly answered: "Stay loyal to the Constitution, stay loyal to the Constitution, and do what I tell you." Now, doesn't that sound like him?

Big excitement at our house yesterday: we bought a golf cart with the help of Ken who found it, and now can use it here in the village. I haven't had a chance (or been given permission !!!) to drive it yet, but I can wait.

Hope nice things happen to you today----Marian

PERFECT ATTENDANCE? EAT THIS

There was a story in the paper this morning about a man who never took a sick day off in 38 years. He attributed this to the daily lunch of "WATERMELON, ALKALINE WATER AND AN ONION SANDWICH WITH MAYONNAISE". Now I ask you, would you think that lunch on any day was worth not missing EVEN ONE DAY AT WORK FOR? What a thought to start the day with!!!!! Marian

MUSINGS----

Some of our long-standing friends came over from Arkadelphia this noon, and we all went to a really nice place to eat. (I had a chicken sandwich on cranberry bread that couldn't have been better) One went to the Oberammergau, and the other went down the half of the Rhine they didn't do last hear. They don't understand that we've "done that and been there", and like our own projects here in the cottage.

Have a cover almost done for the Colerean Program Book. It celebrates 70 year's of the club's existence. I hear many complaints that both men's clubs and women's are just barely hanging on. People don't want to meet in their homes, nor do they want to serve as officers. I'm guessing that these clubs no longer fill needs in the lives of people who at one time needed them as a way to be a part of the community. Colereans are limited to 20 members at a time, but have had only 15 for a long time. We have TV which sometimes can develop programs most of us could not, and we have computers that keep us in contact with the world and out friends.

I've made about 20 covers for the Colerean Club and I'm thinking this may be the last. I am thinking that I would rather be in the kitchen band here in the village! ---------Marian

I'll blog later---people from Arkadelphia are coming and we all are going out to lunch, so thus, I'll "blog" later----Marian

ARKADELPHIA TRIP

We're on our way to Arkadelphia for the previously mentioned "social life". I'll get a perm and be beautiful, we'll have lunch and be happy with Mary Ella, then back to my dentist, and to healing with my doctor, Mike. I was lucky at the dentist yesterday in that I only have to have one root canal instead of two. Awfully dull info for you today, but won't it be grand when the day is over? YOU have some fun---Marian

OUR WEDDING

There was a story about Chelsea Clinton's coming wedding in the paper, and it reminded me of Bob's and my wedding, forty years ago next month. I remember that the preacher said something about "the young -----pause---in heart" couple. Then as we were leaving, Bob's grandson yelled out ""Grandpa"---. Bob and I went off to play a couple of days of golf, and came back to pick up Ann, Walter and a couple of their friends for the second half of our honeymoon, only to have this action mentioned in the story of our wedding in the paper as "and the GROUP returned from their honeymoon----", literally true, but funny anyway. Yes, forty years ago. Hope Chelsea and her new husband will be as happy as we have been--------Remember your big day? Take care, Marian

SUNDAY

Sunday Papers are wonderful. It takes a long time to read them whether the news is exciting or not. We always read, hoping that it is. I read the editorials I like, the book page, and the front section. In addition, Bob always reads the funny paper; I don't except for Family Circus and Trudeau. Sunday morning is a wonderful morning.

Meals are easily fixed--no big deal for us, and we always have a book to fill in the unused time.

Of course, by afternoon, one begins to think about the schedule for the next week. And next week, we have a great social life lined up: a bunch of doctor's appointments, which is usually the social life of a retiree. But we do enjoy and like our doctors----

Happy Sunday, Marian

WEEKENDS

Here it is a weekend again---probably the most significant time of the week. I taught school most of my professional life, and my weekends were so eagerly awaited. Was it because of "no work"? No, because I had to clean house and do my planning for the next week's teaching . I really and truly enjoyed teaching and my students,but still counted the days until Friday was over. But the point of this is that having been retired for 30 years, that old feeling about weekends hangs on. Even when every two days is a weekend after retirement, the feeling of joy for the real Saturday and Sunday hangs on. I still look forward to the end of the week Now explain that! However, it's probably a universal feeling, don't you think? Enjoy, Marian

Ann left for vacation this morning, so I have no one to correct my blogger mistakes. I meant "raise", not rise-----Yuk

EXERCISE & A GOOD BOOK

Bob and I have started an exercise regimen, and have been at it for 3 days now. It's the kind of tape where we in our 90's work with a chair--sit and rise our legs , one at a time , 15 times, and even stand on our toes 15 times. Many more such movements are designed to stretch every muscle. I find I haven't stretched a few of mine in a long time. We lasted about 25 minutes today before "falling out". The tape uses weights for some of the movements, and we are going to get some IF we hold out and exercise at least 5 more times. I'm sure each of us KNOWS that this is helpful, and really necessary to some future comfort in navigating. BUT they are SOOOO boring!!!!

Am reading at THE EDITH WHARTON READER, a book of excerpts from all her writings. The people in the late 1800's had such different manners and standards than do we, that I find what I'm reading is fascinating. Money counts more, or maybe I just don't recognize how much it counts in the early 2000's. Any way, it's good reading for a 90 degree weather day when one has all the daily chores done. My advice? Chose a sedentary activity today-----Marian

Bulletin

Bob's rug cleaning method was VERY successful!!! Marian

RUG SPOTS

We came over here to retire, but it seems that there is just as much to do here as there was there. Example: there's a big spot on the rug right in the middle of the living room, It looks as if it is shoe dirt, and coffee spills. Well, I got some advice about what to use to clean it with, and was all prepared this morning to do it. BUT I realized that directions called for wiping up the cleaner with a towel---but if I GOT DOWN ON THE FLOOR TO DO THAT, I COULD NEVER GET UP! WOW! But Robert has come up with a possible solution; tie a towel around the broom, and wipe it up that way. Will it work? Expect further bulletins.

I also have to make cookies today, and do a washing. Retirement? Well, maybe I don't have to vacuumn or wash windows here-----so I say to you, don't work hard today: pace yourself. Marian

PILLS

I'm sick of taking pills. Take some when I get up; take some before breakfast; take some at noon, and then again at night before bedtime. I'm sick of it. But I know, I have to think of the alternative, and I do, but I'm still sick of it. Which brings up the fact that have you ever noticed that all (I've seen no exception yet) ninety year olds talk about their pills within two minutes of every conversation one has with them? Me included. It will have to be judged the favorite conversation piece for us. Discusting, isn't it.

Well that's my gripe for today. Go vent some gripes and you'll probably have a good day. Marian

THE OBESITY PROBLEM

I know a solution to the Nation's concern about obesity. Did you see in the Gazette this morning that some British artist scattered 60 pianos across New York including Times Square so that amateur musicians could play their favorite tunes? Well, why not just drop treadmills generously all across the country to help people get their exercise? Wouldn't that be an aid in dealing with the obesity problem? Don't ask me about money: it seems we can find it when we really want it. Well, think about it----

Now off to make bread----Marian

ONE OF "THOSE DAYS"

We got to Ark, Ark on time for Bob's doctor appointment, and then I started to drive to my neighbor's house---but got stopped for driving 40 miles an hour in a 20 mile zone. He gave me a "drive more carefully, little lady" ticket. Then my neighbor had overslept, so our visiting time was much shorter before I had to pick up Bob again. I still was late for that, but he left without seeing the doctor as he'd already waited an hour. When we got back to Hot Springs,we stopped at the dining room for our noon dinner, and I dropped my salad plate full of fruit on the floor. I'm staying home the rest of the day---something in the atmosphere is making this a dangerous day for me!!

This is the first day of summer, and the temp outside is 95 degrees. I should make bread, but I'm afraid that I'd leave out the yeast or something. Wonder if that strange golf tourney yesterday had anything to do with all of this--------Be careful today. Marian

LATE TODAY

BLOG WILL BE LATE TODAY: JUST HAVE 55 MINUTES TO GET TO ARKADELPHA. SO, PLEASE BEAR WITH ME----MARIAN

VISITORS, AND FATHER'S DAY

Father's Day, and some wonderful memories of my Father! Also good friends are here for the weekend, and we've had GREAT talk, good subjects, a mixture of optimism and pessimism, fun being together, a great golf game to keep an eye on, and a very HOT day. Marilyn and I have been friends for more than 40 years, and have been in touch with each other that entire time.

Marilyn is more of a pessimist than I am, but she knows more, and keeps up on more. Even so, we are on the same side of almost every thing that has come up. And YOU KNOW WHAT SIDE THAT IS!. Bob and Joe are on that side too.

Short blog today so there will be more time for talk----Are you thinking about your Father? Marian

CROSSWORD PUZZLES , ANOTHER SALT SOLUTION & PENCILS

Well today I ate cereal for breakfast--no salt. The only thing I can think of that might have been positive is that I didn't have to wash the skillet when I did the dishes.

We, Bob and I, are crossword puzzles doers. We have three in our papers each morning: two in the Gazette, and one in the Hot Springs paper , which, incidentally, is the easiest of the three. I start them, and when I'm through struggling, I give them to Bob who then can finish them in what seems like two seconds. Bob's smarter than I am---at least I'll admit it when it comes to cross word puzzles. Oh yes, and at spelling too.

My best luck with these puzzles comes when I use a sharp pencil that writes very black. The one I like best is an electronic scorer made by Berol. BUT they no longer make them. I had a package of them on hand at that time, thank heaven, but have given several away as Christmas presents. I made a mistake and brought the one and only stub end that was all Janet had left of one I gave her, home from Kansas with me. She noticed right away, and wants it back. I have one that is an inch longer that I'll send her---the inch being an apology for taking her precious crossword pencil!

OPTIMISTIC?

I showed signs of optimism yesterday. I let Bob get me a beautiful new winter suit for my birthday. Now I ask you, if getting clothing for a season five months away when you are 91 going on 92 isn't optimistic, I really don't know what is. But Robert, I do thank you, and can hardly wait to wear it.

Traci told me to get Mrs. Dash to try instead of Salt which I crave. Well, years ago I DID try it, but I've matured since then, and will put it on our grocery list so I can try again. I'll try harder----

The good book I'm reading now is WENCH by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. My neighbor loaned it to me.

Hope you find a joyful activity today------Marian

GOOD AND BAD

Yesterday was a real mixture of good and bad: weather good, but hot; wonderful friend and some of her family came to visit, but house a mess as we were trying to get straightened up from our trip; hair fixed by nice lady, but not like Joan fixes it; good food but nobody sent me info about how to eat salt without eating it; had a good visit with my neighbor, but Bob and I each lost all six games of solitaire ----well, that's the way the day went: good and bad. Today has started out well, but all the flowers on our outdoor patio and front stoop died while we were gone, and we'll have to start over on those parts of our house. BUT I have a good book and NOTHING that I have to do!!! The "good" to you, and no "bad"---Marian

SALT

I'm not supposed to eat salt, and it's almost a fate worse than death. I've cut myself down to no salt except on my egg-on-toast breakfast. Just can't do it. So we've been trying substitutes. There are two Morton salt subs: a real substitute that is bitter to my taste, and a half salt that is OK if I use double the amount. But out in Kansas on a visit to a new Amish Community my daughter bought some salt for me that they said was much less dangerous. Ann looked it up and found that it comes from very deep seas, and is good because it doesn't have the flotsam & jetsom in it found higher in the oceans. Well, I just want to report that I have to use double of it also in order to get any taste on my egg. Does anyone know a solution of how I can eat salt without eating salt? It just might save my life--I KNOW it will save my sanity! Waiting to hear---Marian

1ST DAY BACK HOME

We're home from Kansas, but far from settled in! It was a beautiful trip home, but an amazing amount of traffic. Give us a day or two, and perhaps, maybe, better be, hope so, might be back to normal, if living at 1925 Malvern is ever normal! We saw 9 different relatives which included Janet's and my daughters, and had several family phone calls. This is the blog for today; maybe we'll be back in shape in the morning! (not a promise) (but what's back in shape?) Rest a little today, Marian

Day 2--After a perfect breakfast, after a nice morning of more coffee and talk,we went to PIE DAY! The lady at the bakery fixes pie every Thursday for anyone who wants to come and visit over fresh pie and more coffee. Today it was peach pie. Then we went to the gift shop that we like here in Oswego--bought them out---well, almost. Christmas shopping. Then a couple of hours later we went to the farmer's market run by the Amish. Two pies, 20 new potatoes, two loaves of bread, some cinniman bars, and Lasagna, and even a pint of buttermilk for Bob. Now the girls are going swimming, and the rest of us HOPE for a nap. It's movie night===don't you wish you were here? Marian

NIGHT ONE-----STORM

Here we are in Oswego with the family----the trip out couldn't have been nicer--beautiful trees and scenery! BUT BUT BUT during the night, there was a terrible lightning storm: very strong claps, the worst and closest that one doesn't want to hear, but then it all was followed by lost power, and 15 minutes of sheet lightning the likes of which I HAVE NEVER seen before. I thought something was on fire!!! It's day time, and now I'm sitting here wondering what will be next! But we're glad we are here======Marian

TIME OUT FOR KANSAS

This was Ann's birthday, and altho we forgot to call her early this morning as is our usual early birthday greeting, Bob has a cake to celebrate it when we all get to Kansas--anyway, Annie, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

We are ready to go--it will be interesting to see what we have forgotten when we get there: we always do, but it usually isn't life threatening---anyway, have a good week and we will do the same. Marian

READY TO GO

Well, the papers are read, the crosswords PARTIALLY done, (Bob has to finish them) and the bread to take to Kansas Tuesday is about to be put in the oven. I've avoided the dishes so far, but know that has to come next. Wish we could put our stuff in the car, and just start driving now--I always hate the last few days before a trip-----I'm always ready days early, and those last few are so useless. I'm told that I can still make some blog comments from out there while we are gone, so don't turn me off----Take care of yourselves, and we will do the same. Marian

A REPORT ON THUR. FRI AND SAT----

SATURDAY: I still don't have the right way to get to my blog after the computer changed itself all around the other night (I will not repeat my language as I've hunted for it since then, but hope you could read my last explanation, and are ready to start reading again----) Anyway went to the dentist on Thursday, and was told that all I needed were two root canals---which is MUCH better than I expected, but will have that to look forward to after we get back Friday we went to the doctor, and to get a hair cut. Now all we have to do is pack, and to say the least, I'm excited. PLUS, I get to drive the new car half way! Should be home on Tuesday, June 14th.

In the meantime, enjoy life-----Marian

RESULTS OF THE DENTIST TRIP, AND COMPUTER TROUBLE

We went to the dentist, and the two teeth I though might have to be pulled, don't have to be pulled, he just thinks I should have two root canals!!! Bob just had to have a cleaning. We stopped and got REAL hamburgers on the way home. But I couldn't get the blog to come up, and am still not sure how I did it this time. So, dear readers, if there's nothing here for you to read in the next day or two, take a vacation and start hunting for it again after we get back from Kansas, June l6. Keep me in mind, please---I love writing it, but need readers----Marian

DENTIST DAY

Bob and I have serious dental work to be done today. Need I say more? Please keep your fingers crossed for us, and keep at least one moment of silence ------Thanks, Marian

ANN, TACT, GORES----

Bob says he feels lethargic; I feel sentimental; he doesn't know why, and I'm thinking about Ann as today I need to send her some recognition if she is to get it on her birthday. She was a big baby, BORN with tact as one of her talents. Example: when Walt and I were playing social solitaire on the floor, and when she woke up from her nap, did she walk all thru our game? No, she always went around it. That's tact!

The announcement that the Gore's are separating makes me very sad. I have always admired the Gore family, and have been very impressed with his work to help the country understand and deal with the environment. Whatever their reasons are, I trust them to be doing the right thing, but I'm very sorry. Another fine example just "bit the dust"! But the best to both---

Go give your "other half" a hug, and have a good day----Marian

WATERMELON

Memorial Weekend is now over, and the regular use of our days falls back in place. Have to complain about a loud air conditioner, get things ready for Jim (who is coming today) to iron, write at least two letters, make appointments at the dentist. Im not complaining--I call it "just planning."

We had a "picnic"---well all the menu reflected "picnic" ---for dinner in the dinning room yesterday. Choice of hamburgers or weennies with all the trimmings that they demand, potato salad and french fries, and best of all, watermelon! Living like we do here, it's hard to realize the season, and we didn't know watermelon was out there ready to eat.

So my advice for the day is GO GET AND ENJOY SOME OF THE WONDERFUL FRUIT! Marian

MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day is a Day of Appreciation for our Service Men and Women of all times. Janet told me this morning that hundreds of flags are placed on the graves in their cemetary in honor of our soldiers, and that it is a very meaningful sight--unless it rains------We do honor and appreciate our service men and women, but we don't need to honor war. The sooner the world becomes civilized enough to solve diplomatic problems in more humane ways, the better off we'll be. But we in our retirement are not likely to live that long-----sad.

The sun is out, and we are to have a picnic in our dining room for lunch today, so go have as good day as you can------Marian

THE WEEKEND

Well, I didn't finish the silver; in fact I did nothing to talk about except----read a book all day, the first time since we've been here that I have given in to comfort and pleasure only. The book is THE ECHO MAKER by RICHARD POWERS==the one the Laibles sent. It's different, long, and interesting. We did watch a movie last night: one with Meryl Streep in it, but certainly, not one of her best.

I rather hope today will be the same-- a self-indulgent one. We started out well by finishing both crossword puzzles--the Gazette one, and the Sentinal one. Bob can usually finish at least one of them, but to get both done makes it a good beginning to the day. Our movie for tonite is one made from a Willa Cather book. Hope it is as good as I usually find her books to be.

This is Memorial Weekend: can we send good thoughts to our service men and women? and can we hope for better news from the oil spill?

Hope this is a good weekend for all of you-----enjoy! Marian

MYSTERY

We had a mystery yestersday. It started while Ken and Mary Jo were here, and to me sounded just like a big cat fight right outside the front door---not that we've ever seen any cats around here, and when we looked, we didn't see any this time. Well about 1/2 hour later: same sound. We looked, saw nothing, had a few theories, and went on with our weekly visit. The sound kept up all evening and just before we went to bed, there was a big one. "OH", said Robert, "that's my computer!" Sure enough it was. It makes very odd noises when the player gives right answers to its games, and that was what it was doing: just playing games by itself, and had been doing so all afternoon. Mystery solved!

We had our first Bacon/Tomato Sandwiches of the summer last night. Love 'em. And today, I plan to finish the last half of the silver------and so the story goes: have a good one. Marian

SILVER POLISH DAY

This is a day with no project scheduled, so in order to have something to say in the blog, I had to think of one. Shine silver!! And I got about half of it done before needing to stop. It looks so pretty that I think I will do it more often!

Talked to Ann on our regular Friday phone visit, and all is well with her. They are having guests for dinner tomorrow night, and she has ideas to try out in the studio. Happy girl. Asked about Joe's business and economy, she said that he isn't complaining, always a good sign that things are better.

Hope to get the interviews done, and if the powers that be get on the ball and get them printed for distribution soon, that project will be over.

Well, it's almost lunch time-----sun is shining---guess this would be a good day for you to do what you want to do----Marian

LOOKING AT 186 SELF PORTRAITS------

If you haven't seen yourself 186times in pictures, you have yet quite an experience before you. It reminds me of the old saying, "My face, I don't mind it, for I am behind it. It's the fellow in front who gets the jar". Bob confounded it by getting two copies of each at Walmart--that makes 400 and some self portraits of US. I guess Debbie caught the spirit of the nineties, and we'll have lots of ways to put them together with the blog.

Yesterday, I found a way to get it printed from the computer to paper--not very sophisticated result, but a start of quite a record of this part of our lives.

We also had another nice experience: went to dinner with Win and Bill and had good conversation, great food, and lived through a BIG thunder storm. But it did give us a much needed rain. The sun is out now---have a happy day---Marian

ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SIX PICTURES!

I got all of that stuff done yesterday, and even the bread turned out well: loaves weren't the same size, but, oh, they are good! Oh no, I didn't finish the book---good, tho, as I have that to look forward
to this afternoon. Can also look forward to dinner tonight as we are invited out with two other couples to a place we haven't been before.

But the exciting thing yesterday is that we got to see the l86 (minus 2) pictures that Debbie took of us a week ago. She wanted to "capture our spirit" (which I think is the spirit of our nineties), and I think she did. Now I'd like to take the days of the blog off one at a time, and put a picture with each day, and save them with my other bios. Haven't figured that process out yet.

Debbie is a wonder-woman. The sun is out: enjoy it: that's an order! Marian

ANOTHER WORK DAY

This will have to be another work day--a catch up: notes to write, sheets to fold, bread to make, floor to sweep, interview to write up and still another for which I have to make an appointment. I have a book to finish, and will tell you about it when I finish it, if it still is as good as I think now.

I think one of the challenges about making Mother's bread is to get the batter into two EQUAL loaves for baking. In all the years I've made it, I still have to get two loaves the same size. Suppose it will be the same today. I missed the timing again, and it has to cook while we should be eating our noon meal at the central dining room, so Bob --nice Bob--is bringing my lunch to me.

Sometime soon I'm going to schedule a "no work day"==a day with absolutely NOTHING that I have to do. I can hardly wait--------take care of yourselves--Marian

OLD WEEK AND PLANS FOR NEW WEEK

Monday Morning, the morning of the easiest crossword puzzles, and the easiest of those is in the Hot Springs paper! I got all but two words in it, but did poorly on the D-G ones, probably because our company was moving around trying to get "on the road" for home. (Why should I admit that I just don't know the words---!)

We truly enjoyed the week with the Laibles and Herb, and I think they did too. Our next guests will be Marilyn and Joe from Nashville, but that's after our trip to Kansas.

I have two more interviews to do, and will do one this afternoon, and maybe the other tomorrow. Marsha, the boss, has been reading them, she said, so perhaps something will be done with them soon.

Only 91 degrees today---but not yet a swimming day--ha. Marian

NIGHTMARE

I had one of those screaming nightmares last night: first in years. Someone was pushing the door out while I was trying to get in, and NOBODY was supposed to be there! My finger was also being pinched in the door which HURT, HURT, HURT. But a close inspection this morning showed no cut, slice, bruise or other injury to any finger, so I guess it really was just a noisy dream.

Herb's son Jim is coming to get him today, and they will drive back to Lewisberg tomorrow. Laibles left this morning for Florida for a week before going North for the summer to avoid the heat. It has been a lovely, stimulating week.

I have some one coming to fix my e-mail tomorrow--it is an awfully isolated feeling being without it.----------Rest today----why not? Marian

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARY JO

Herb treated us all to a fish dinner at the Wharf last night. There must have been a million people there, and the noise level was high. But there's a different kind of talk in a situation like that, and the thing I like about it is that because it's hard to hear, everything is funny or clever. It was a good evening.

However, the Friday Night Political programs capped off by Bill Moyers are just not the same since he retired. Too bad. It's not always easy to find people with whom we agree on TV programs. Both Bob and I were amused to see that Ron Paul, the son, is a Tea Party-er, and his Father just couldn't be more different.

It's Mary Jo's birthday today, and Herb will be over soon for the rest of his visit. His son, Jim, will get here tomorrow to take him home to Tenn. And Laibles go back to Florida Sunday too, so all will soon get back to normal. "Normal" if you count not being able to get your e-mail up! That's my predicament now, but the "fixers" come Monday. Hail to a working Computer!

Please---make your day a joyous one! Marian

A SPECIAL TIME WITH FRIENDS

Bob fixed one of his specially good and beautiful breakfasts for our guests this morning, and we were able to serve all 5 of us around our small table. In fact, I think we could do six people for a breakfast-----maybe that's what one might call "all the comforts of home". Anyway, we are enjoying the old friends.

It's interesting to me that old friends like we are should all have similar ideas--not much room for arguing. Jon was for Obama before we were, but we all are solidly behind him now. We want him to succeed. But this morning our conversations were more about where we've been together in our travels, and not about politics. Herb, Sue and I have been to Abita ten times, and traded for 10 other time shares through the years.--twenty trips together!!!!! It's been a good life, with good friends.

Yesterday, I talked to Walt, Ann, Janet, Mary and Peter----a good phone day!!! Hope you have a special type of good day today, whatever that might be-----Marian

THE VISITORS, THE CHAIR, AND THE RABBIT

Yesterday turned out to be a great day. We had a beautiful time out on the deck with our guests visiting and catching up on things that have happened since we last saw one another. We expect another great day today, but different as it is raining. But back to yesterday: the chair came---it really looks nice, and came much before the 6 weeks we expected to wait for it. Now if I can get the green tablecloth changed for the tan/brown one, we'll be color coded again.

But the chair wasn't all. The Hairdresser had a baby rabbit that he had caught coming into work. He put it on a pillow under a hair drying hood, and spent the time we were in his shop trying to get one or any of the residents to take it and bring it up as a pet. Much back and forth "big talk" over all of this which both Jo Ann and I enjoyed. Finally, the hairdresser decided that the baby rabbit come from under our deck as several people in the shop remembered seeing an adult rabbit come out from under there too. (Our deck can be seen from the shop window.) Well, anyway, he brought the baby back to our house, and put it under our bush hoping it would find its family. See? It was a great day.

May you all have the best of the best today---Marian

A MIXED UP DAY

This is a BAD DAY---having a bad day, and breathing hard. Company due in 15 minutes, and we go to lunch. Couldn't brake hair dates as we broke last ones, so company will entertain themselves until we get home. Hope this isn't indicative of how entertaining in our nineties is always going to be.---

Nobody will know how great our yesterday was thanks to Debby. She has some beautiful photography equipment, and used it to take pictures of us in every kind of pose she could think of. We had lots of visiting, and she made us talk about ourselves a lot---something one seldom if ever, feels free to do: not the best of manners. We loved it. I've already told her that things from now on will be measured by "before and after our day with Debby"

Keep your fingers crossed that we all have some fun today in spite of how we feel. I didn't mention that these are "talking" friends, so there will, of course, be SOME fun. Hope you have some too. Marian

THE SAGA OF THE PILLOWS

I am going to write about getting the right pillows for the living room sofa bed. Bob and I took our time yesterday for a little shopping trip to get just the right pillows before our next guests arrive. But Walmart didn't have an empty go-cart for me to ride, so I waited for Bob to check out what they had. Shortly, he came back and reported that there were no appropriate pillows. So we went to Penny's. We parked in back thinking there would be a shorter walk from that door to the pillow department, but we got no further than the return desk. Well, the little girl asked if she could help us in our exhausted state, and we told her that she surely could be doing our shopping. "WHY OF COURSE," she said, "WHAT DO YOU WANT?" And that lovely young thing went around to the pillow department and brought back three pillows just like we wanted. BUT not being able to remember the color we were trying to match, we sent her back for some darker blue ones. She found them, we bought them, and brought them home. But no, the first one she had brought would have been better. We slept on it, and then " bless-his-heart-Bob" took them back this morning and got the first ones. They are perfect! Oh, and I forgot to say that some nice lady carried the pillow packages out to the car for me. Moral of the story: "shopping in your nineties just ain't so hot, but there are nice people in the world one might not know otherwise. " Fun? What's "fun"? Marian

EXERCISE

I didn't do any exercise for maybe a month before we moved, and not until last week did I start again. My STRETCH AND FLEX has kept me agile for years, thanks to Sheri , but the tape wouldn't work in our TV. But Jim and Bob fixed it for me, and now I'm back in the routine. I don't know how long it will take me to catch up, but I'm working at it. It takes a long time in the nineties to get into shape, as if you hadn't guessed!

I used to love to walk, and in our country location, I got in several miles every day. I use to go down in what they called the "take area", the low place left from taking dirt for the DeGray Dam, and walk almost to the lower pool. It also was a good place to walk the dogs and for them to visit on their "days off"--oh yes they do have days of exploring when there are two of them and when they have a lovely place to go in the lower lake area as our dogs had.

I not only miss our big dogs, but I miss the environs of the lake, and I miss exercising outdoors.
Well, enough complaining: have an entirely good week---Marian

SUNDAY THOUGHTS

I stopped work on the Sunday Crossword to wish you all a good day. For me Sunday is such an end to one set of activities, and the beginning of the new that it is really a needed and special day.

I'm a salt freak: have eaten it on everything, from bananas to pumpkin pie, all of my life. But now I've been told that it is very necessary for me to go without it. Although very difficult, I have cut it out on everything except my morning egg----and that I just can't do yet.

And here's a thought about salt. Do you realize that at some point in our history, it was decided that everyone needed a certain amount of iodine in their diet? Powers that be, whoever they were, decided that it could be combined with salt , and that would take care of it. What a important step that was----would our present Congress have been able to do that?

Well, that's my thought for the day. The sun appears to be out, and that should help you have a great day-----Marian

REPORT FOR FRIDAY

We had a good day yesterday. Bob and I each are alumni of several different colleges, but we don't attend any of their meetings: we go to the Alumni Assoc. monthly meeting of Henderson State University---now figure that out! Yesterday, it was held in the beautiful Country Club, and we had a fine time. I usually select the wrong food if given a choice, and yesterday was no exception. Ken came to visit as Mary Jo was ill--she and I both missed the PEO State Convention.

There's nothing on the docket today, but we'd better prepare for next week----lots of activity, house guests and picture taking planned, but now that I'm doing my stretch and flex exercises again, it all should be "duck soup".

No real news, but wish you all plenty of fun time---Marian

MOTHER'S' BREAD RECIPE

Ooops--hit the wrong key--(but that's the story of my computer life--) any way, here's the recipe for Mother's Bread:
1/2 C sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 C Crisco (scant)
1/2 C warm water on a pkg of powered yeast--add to above
1 egg, whipped--add
Warm 1 1/2 Cup Milk and pour over above mixture. Mix
Add 6 cups of sifted flour--mix and let rise for 1 1/2 hours

Shape into two greased bread pans, and let rise another 1 1/2 hours
Bake in 350* oven for 30 minutes Cover top with butter when you take it from the oven.

If you want to use graham flour, use 2 cups of it, and 4 Cups of white flour
Or add some cheese and/ or raisins along with the flour for two other variations

Let me know if you make it, and how it turned out----than rest----Marian

I did mean to give the recipe when I told the bread story, but forgot it. So here it is;

THE BREAD STORY

The bread story: My Mother had alzheimer's for the last ten years of her life, and lost sight of who she was, where she was, and what she'd been. And that was a very busy lady, Mother of three children, and a great bread maker. We all inherited her receipe, and I think each of us keeps our family supplied with plenty of Mother's bread. Well, once when Ann was visiting with her, she complained about never having contributed anything to the world. Ann immediately contradicted her and said, "Oh but Grandmother, you always made LOTS of bread!" "Oh," answered Mother immediately, "I never made a loaf of bread in my life!!!!"

So now every so often Ann calls me on the phone and asks me, "Have you made bread lately?" Well, I wonder what she's trying to assess? HMMMMMM And I think of this story every time I make bread!

Are you ready to take it easy today, and have some fun? Hope so. Marian

FOLLOW -UP TO ARKADELPHIA TRIP

Not being in Arkadelphia, we missed the fact that Tim's Mother died. Too bad, and we hope the good memories he has had through the years begin to surface, and help him recover.

But we also heard that Andrew graduated from OBU with a fine record, and it wasn't his Dad who told us. He's a real "people person", everyone knows him and likes him. Have a good life, even better than your great start---

I got a copy of my STRETCH AND FLEX tape and followed it for the first time in months---which certainly was immediately discernable. I'm already sore, but by noon should feel really good. Maybe doing it every morning will help me have more energy. I hope; I need it.

I made bread Monday, and I know a good story about that I didn't have a chance to tell it. Look forward to it tomorrow, but have a great day today----Marian

AND OFF TO ARKADELPHIA WE GO---

We're going to Arkadelphia today for our usual visits with the Doctor, and a hair appointment. Will have lunch with Mary Ella, and Bob wants to shop for summer shirts. We also hope to go visit our old home and see what all the new owners are doing to it------I'll report on all of this later.

It's rather dark here, so suppose it will rain. I'm wearing all white, so suppose I'll stand out like the proverbial sore thumb--------hope you get to stay in today and do your favorite thing. Marian

ROMANCE

Don't tell me there's no romnce in a ninety year old's life-----in the line for dinner yesterday, the lady in front of me leaned close and lowered her voice, and said, "May I ask you a personal question?" All ears, I told her "of course". This is what she asked: "Is that man back of you your husband or your live-in?" For heaven's sake---"what would make you wonder?" I asked. "Well"she said,"the ladies at our table saw him hug you once==so we just wondered!"

Well, I guess I laughed the rest of the day----have fun today, even if it is wash day. Marian

MOTHER'S DAY

It's Mother's Day--often maudlin, but more often a time to contemplate the importance of Mothers. The day bothered my Mother, and we would walk home from Church after Sunday School as she didn't want to hear a sermon on the meaning of the day. Her Mother died when my Mother was just 14 years old, and perhaps she knew that she was missing something. But perhaps again, she might have thought everything was just too sentimental.

I know that having Walter and Ann has been the most important venture of my life. Being with them as they grew to maturity was the most important thing that ever happened to me. They are fine people, and do contribute to the world in their own ways and both make it a better place to be. Now having said that, I must say that they'd better not read this---they'll think that I'm the one being sentimental.

Well, tomorrow is another day, and there will be another 374 days until the next Mother's Day----Enjoy your memories today, Marian

SATURDAY'S AGENDA

It's Saturday, a traditional "pick-up" day for me so that things will look nice for Sunday. Today's no different in that I have all the things from the Craft Show to put away. Also want to make the sugar-free lemon pie that is a pretty good substitute for the one Mother used to make. That takes care of the morning, and leaves this afternoon for a visit from Ken and Mary Jo, and for finishing THE BOOK OF RUTH, a novel loaned to me to read. Not a bad day---

The terrible flood in Nashville is getting more attention in the papers this morning. It seems as if the disasters that happen because of bad weather are so very much worse than they once were. This was noted to be over a 500 year storm possibility, and the damage apparently is unbelievable.
My friend is not in the water, but some of her relatives are very close to it.

I plan to be happy today--better think of happier things, and start now. Breakfast is ready: a good beginning. Make it a great day today-----Marian

CRAFT SHOW:" BEEN THERE, DONE THAT" NOW

Bad news about the craft show: not many buyers, and not many who needed what I had: notes, and a few prints. BUT I did giet to explain and illustrate what etchings are, and visited with some really nice people, so it certainly wasn't a total loss.

Now, what's the next project? Probably should get out the finished quilt blocks and put them together. Also have a couple of dry-point ideas to try, but now, also, I can read some of the books we've accumulated around here.

There's still some of this day left, so enjoy it------Marian

EXPECT A LATER REPORT

I will give the report on the craft show later today. It's beautiful out, but the crossword puzzles were too hard for me to work this morning, always a disappointment. Enjoy your world--Marian

COMPUTER PROBLEMS AGAIN

Now my printer is printing multiple copies of things I no longer want. It's a good thing that by the time one has reached the nineties, one has learned to control (somewhat) emotions when things go wrong, and in the past I gave computers credit for that. But here it is testing me out again. Yuk.

We have a day's work before us getting ready for the craft show tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed that we do well. Retirement? Means not working? Lots of relaxation? Not sure---

Enjoy your world today----Marian