Me, Myself and Memories

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  Noreen 4:24 pm on December 2, 2021 Permalink  

  Oh My Goodness 

  The checkup today on the missing toe sight went well.  Initially, Dennis’ foot was wrapped for four weeks after surgery.  When the wrappings came off the stitches were also removed at that time.  What was a surprise at that time was the bunion area of that foot.  It looked angry, and we were told to put moisturizer on it.

  Today that bunion area took the focal point.  It is now deemed an open wound.  Dennis will be on antibiotics for seven days.  Once a day I am to bathe the wound via gauze with Acetic Acid and cover with a self adhesive soft silicone foam dressing.  We will be returning in two weeks for yet another checkup.  What was cleaned out to make it an open wound were gout crystals very easily identified even from where I was sitting, as well as drainage once the area was opened up.  Oh my goodness.  Talk about what can happen, will happen.  

  On the way home, we stopped in Lake Crystal for a Dairy Queen cone.  First one in 2021.  We thought a treat was warranted . . . and it was.

  It was so good to get home.  It feels like we need some serious home time . . . I surely do.  I do very easily get worn out if home time is denied me.  Three trips in four day to the big city does wear on one . . . meaning ME!

  At 4:15 it is 44 degrees but the sky is very gray.  I just checked the patio porch through the bathroom window and Dennis has nodded off.  I can’t say I blame him.

  Tomorrow is bound to have new energy for us.  The little red pickup deserves a break.

   
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  Noreen 4:18 pm on December 1, 2021 Permalink  

  Too Pooped to Pop 

  I might be weary but eight west porch windows have been cleaned.  They tip in for ease of cleaning.  I am not saying they are totally streak free.  I am saying that the hard water spots on the exterior glass is gone.  Denis washes the siding of the house several times during the summer and city water is as hard as rocks.  Stauffer Ave. is gravel and I need not say any more about that.  Dennis had planned on one more wash for the season, but the toe that needed to be removed took presidents.

  A time back Kevin brought over CLR Foam cleaner.  It takes the hard water spots off . . . right now.  The windows do need to be rinsed well to take off any residue.  I will swap out a few streaks rather than hard water spots any day.  On a good day when the shade of the day hides the streaks, there is no way the hard water spots can ever be seen through.  In Dennis’ defense, when he washes off the house siding the muddy water runs down in rivulets.  Well worth it to keep the house looking good.

  When the windows get done, if I could wiggle my nose and make the west porch ten feet wider, that would be ideal to maneuver a full size bed from side to side.  Dennis is close at hand until I am done.

  Our trip to Aspen Dental yesterday was our last trip, with no unforeseen adjustments.  The best thing is to chew, chew, chew to see if there are some sore spots that need adjusting.  Kevin shared with me a memory of Grandpa Raymond.  My folks had come to South Branch to visit.  Grandpa had just gotten a new set of Dentures.  Grandpa winked at Kevin and out to Kevin’s shop they went.  Grandpa used Kevin’s Dremel electric tool and proceeded to do his own adjusting on the dentures.  When they came back into the house, Grandpa was all smiles and Kevin had a sheepish grin on his face.  DIY dentistry at its best.

  Late this afternoon, Dennis’ grandson, Ryan, stopped in and our huge red bow is on the front door for the season.  This will be our third year of the Hobby Lobby score.  After Christmas the $100.00 huge red velvet ribbon had been 90% off.  I did not confer with Dennis who was in his little red pickup watching people coming and going from the store.  I had all I could do to balance it in the cart as I headed for the pickup.  After the holiday season each year, we set the ribbon on a plastic sheet, pulling up all four corners and using clothes pins to secure it. We then hang it from a ceiling hook in the far corner of the patio porch.  

  Tomorrow we are back in Mankato for the last check on his foot where the toe was removed.  The site really looks great.  One more item to check off before winter has truly arrived.  For two older ones, we don’t seem to let grass grow under the little red pickup tires.

   
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  Noreen 10:56 am on November 30, 2021 Permalink  

  November is Done 

  The year is marching on whether I am ready for it or not.

  Mornings after a sound night of sleep should be ready to march on.  Hey . . . not so fast!  I do take time to lay flat and do some exercises to rotate the back and twist from side to side to allow the body to realize we will be getting upright soon.

  My left arm and hand are not all that excited.  My left hand has curled into the fist during the night, into that post-stroke position.  There is more work to be done to get some cooperation.  I do have my cane right next to the bed.  I am as wobbly when I take my first steps in the morning as I am after a full day.  That is the lasting effects that have become customary and usual.  If we can help it, we don’t schedule much in the early mornings.  It takes time to get into the grove of the day.  

  In the scheme of things, my days could have much more severe spells when it comes to movement.  I do miss being able to handle a full sized sandwich with two hands.  I still have not achieved using a knife in conjunction with a fork to cut meat.  There are so many foods that can be handled with one hand and a fork.  I have lots of time.

  Doing dishes is easier to do than drying them.  Doing the dishes can easily be done by backing them into a corner of the sink to get them clean.  Silverware needs to have two hands for drying, or . . . lay them on a clean dish towel and dab them into surrender.

  General housework goes well.  It is those finite motor skills that I will not give up on . . . and that is where my studio comes into play.  Unfortunately, I bless things a bit too often, when getting into the nitty gritty of projects.  Nothing has hit the circular file, aka: the waste basket.  I take my time and don’t plan on working at the machine for long durations.  I take breaks and find something to tidy before hitting the foot peddle of the machine again.  It works!  My life might be different on a day-to-day basis, but it’s still ME!

  We have our home decorated for Christmas.  There might be one more Christmas wall hanging to put in the basement stairwell.  The crowning achievement was when Carrie got Santa out of storage.  He will be greeting everyone from his place at the base of the stairwell going into the studio.  In 2019 when Dennis had gone on a trip with nephew Brett, I gave a weary Santa a makeover.  He had spent his younger years at the lobby of a bank in Fairfax.  Kevin and Kersten rescued him and brought him to St. James.  He needed me.

  It’s time for me to head to PT and then Dennis and I will be heading to Aspen Dental.

   
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  Noreen 4:31 pm on November 29, 2021 Permalink  

  One Away 

  We are one away from our last visit to Aspen Dental in Mankato.  Today Dennis was in and out in a flash.  The wax molds for Dennis’ upper and lowers hit on all points.  For me, the nurse called in the dentist and he shook his head.  The lab gal was called in.  The dentist was not happy about where #23 and #24 were hitting with the bottom mold for proper alignment.  They needed to come to the forefront a bit.  It was back and forth for some time before everyone agreed that it was a “go.”  Amazing how that lab person could work with the wax molds right there in her corner of the world.  At the final approval, had I not known it was wax, it could have for the whole world been permanent teeth in shape and color.  Now that was a “lab gal.”

  Tomorrow at three we return to Aspen Dental and we will have delivery of our dentures.  The lab does the finals right there on site.  Amazing.  I have worked with several different dentists.  The impressions were taken, sent away, and when the phone call came, the permanent dentures were a done deal, thank you very much, pay the bill and . . . goodbye!  Aspen has done a wonderful job going forward for customer satisfaction.  I have three crowns in my bottom jaw.  The color of those teeth are not a consideration going forward.  All the people at Aspen, checked my smile.  It was the top teeth that had took the smile monitor.  Going forward those three teeth played second fiddle. There may be a follow up, if after having them in the mouth with the chewing aspect going, a slight adjustment is covered.  I will be thrilled to have this over with before the real winter hits.

  The sun was out and now in mid afternoon it is still 56 degrees.  Sweet!

  It feels like this day needs to come to a close.  It has been agreed upon that it is eggs, sausage and toast for supper.

   
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  Noreen 4:05 pm on November 28, 2021 Permalink  

  City Girls Come Visiting 

  Megan and Carrie came to visit today from the metro area.

  It was catch up time as to how Megan’s eight-day senior trip had gone to Porto Rico.  120 students had made the trip.

  Rooms within homes that had been flooded during the hurricane five years ago were scrapped and then given a fresh coat of paint.  Flat roofs that leaked were painted with a sealant.  Homes that had had brush piled up around their homes from flooding were cleared.  Many home pantries would have several cans of beans and rice for the family’s meals, but little else.  Certain days of the week, people would gather at a town square for community food distribution.  Mango and coconut trees were prevalent.

  The meals that the students had were heavy on rice and beans and some pork protein and sleeping was on wood slat beds with mattresses of canvas covering straw.  Mosquitos found targets during the nights, and spiders during the days.  Shower areas were most often a pipe overhead with no shower heads or more times than not the water was cold.  Not all homes had running water.  Water taken from streams had a solution of bleach added to make the water drinkable.  None of the students were to drink anything other than bottled water.

  Megan said the treat was swimming in the ocean twice.  On the day they left for home, there were boxes to donate items of what they had come with for the village people.  Most donated the pillows and sheets as each child had had to bring their own for the duration. 

  The trip was interesting, but Megan commented that sleeping in her own bed and using a toilet that flushed . . . awesome.

  For the chaperons, the comment was that the accommodations in Porto Rico were so much better than when they had gone with previous senior trips to the Dominican Republic.  Hmm.

  Life’s lessons that could not be explained but only through experience.  Sweet.

  Megan also got some cat Snuggle time while they were visiting here today.  Megan has always loved grandpa’s cats.

   
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  Noreen 2:43 pm on November 27, 2021 Permalink  

  Sunny Saturday 

  From the first this morning it was a beautiful day and the wind chimes were at it.  Winds from the northwest and the temps would tumble from the morning.  I did let the north wind blow me down Stauffer for a brisk walk.  Walking home against the wind made me realize I need to dig out a cap and mittens before the real winter hits.

  The south living room wall has the remaining five Santas . . . hung as best and straight as us older ones could.  I know there will be help coming in the days to come, if it is needed.  The Santas left plenty of room for our tall and skinny pre-lit Christmas tree to stand in the corner. 

  I purchased the tree last year in Michael’s.  I had checked various online sites and I couldn’t pass up a tree for $49.99.  Kersten unpacked the tree last Thanksgiving for us and set it up.  A seven foot skinny tree was a great find.  The options for a huge amount or ornaments on the short limbs is limited.  I know Dennis would be content with just the lights.  That  may happen.

  Jackson was the site of a trade show today that Dennis headed out to.  It will give him a chance to kibitz with fellows he doesn’t see very often.  There is nothing like swapping tales of who has the best selections on their tables.  It has been four years since Dennis would set up his wares.  Dennis decided it was more fun to be on the move and visit than to be tied down.

  If I didn’t know better, I would swear the wayward boxelder bugs are arriving in my studio from the tile around the perimeter.  One a day, two a day . . . too many.

  The aroma of scones baking never gets old even if they went into the oven from a frozen state.

   
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  Noreen 2:55 pm on November 26, 2021 Permalink  

  Decorating 101 

  It was time to visit the treasure trove in the attic.  My passion in times past was counted cross stitching, doing Victorian Santas.  I would watch the sale options at Michael’s when it came to framing.  When the sale said 80% off, I would take in one Santa at a time and have them done behind UV glass.  

  This Christmas season I am going to enjoy them . . . all eight of them.  2007 was my first stitching.  I admit I am a bit short of wall space.  Dennis said it would be doable.  Slowly but surely they will be hung.  

  In thinking on this, I may have one more Santa within me.  Throughout this season I will check out my patterns and what I may have on hand in regard to fabric.  Heaven knows I am not short on DMC floss.  I have the time and with the will . . . it may just become reality.  I can’t fail if I don’t start.  This would be more appealing to me as I know I no longer have the rotation in the right wrist that crocheting mandates.  Gotta love those Ritus boys and Art is the worst one . . . thus said mother-in-law Esther Schafer.  Tee Hee.

  Last night we had supper around five in the late afternoon.  Before clearing the table, I had to sit and marvel at what was in the west sunset.  The colors in the top of the scape were of aquamarine and as they did an ombre, the colors on the bottom of the scape were of apricot colored hues.  The trees were black silhouettes causing the perfect scene.  These beautiful skies do not last but a few moments as the sun is setting.  Each evening I can’t wait to see what colors have been chosen in God’s pallet.

  We have one winterizing job left to do.  The black service door will not be used over these next months.  The door has been made as secure as possible when Kevin replaced the metal door latch for the door knob to catch into.  We have sheet foam to insert into the interior door opening and then cover it with plastic.  The slider doors are very air tight and Dennis has them locked for the winter months.  The service door going into the car garage will be the only access to the patio porch.  Very doable. 

  When Dennis comes in for supper we will have a meet and greet session as to where the remaining Santas will be placed.  A great meeting of the minds.

   
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  Noreen 3:02 pm on November 25, 2021 Permalink  

  What a Grateful Day 

  I can send many thanks to God Almighty today.  Dennis and I am thankful to have heard from Kevin and Carrie today and Ken as he is driving his 18 wheeler somewhere in Colorado.

  In a matter of days there will be only one more calendar page left.  Time waits for no one.  Dennis and I have no need to rush about.  We stay on track of day by day.  Our only wish is that we were spry enough to physically help out the kids.  That goes for both Carrie and Kevin.

  Kevin and Kersten opened up their own automotive repair shop this last May.  Kevin keeping shop hours five days a week and Kersten riding shot gun to lend an ear or pitch in from time to time after her job of managing Casey’s gives her a break.  Busy people they are.  It does my heart good knowing that they both work five minutes from their home.  No more treacherous driving in fog, ice and snow for Kevin.  The shop has been busy since day one and is a great addition to the City of Fairfax.

  The month of December is bringing changes to Carrie’s family.  The second week of December Carrie will be opening her own store. Carrie’s background is fashion merchandising.  After having worked at various stores, there is a lot of hands on knowledge in regard to what the public is looking for and how to present it.  I am sure the entire family will be on board making the store desirable for Christmas.

  I applaud both of my children for striking out and putting in hard work to find the correct independent fit for each of them.  As I mentioned, Dennis and I are beyond lending a physical hand but giving untold encouragement.

  Dennis and I have spent this day quietly.  Dennis in his patio porch and me rummaging in the attic.  Hmm.  It may begin to look like Christmas here on Stauffer Avenue sooner than later.

   
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  Noreen 2:43 pm on November 24, 2021 Permalink  

  Long Time Acquaintances 

  Today after I left the physical therapy department, I glanced over to see who was manning the information desk.  My, my.  

  In the mid seventies Orlin and I had bought Kevin’s first train set from them when we all were residents of rural Buffalo Lake.  Here we meet up 70 miles to the north as resident in St. James.  It truly is a small world.  The key to it all is that we have to be open to such happen stances.  Keep your head up and eyes wide open.

  As I took my walk today I was battling wind gusts of 25 to 30 mph.  The temps were mild enough to make it feel good.  They do forecast that changes may be coming.  I think changes are coming!  Our first heating bill came online and it is $123.00 for the past month.  I know Dennis has been running the furnace in the garage, but not to the extent of what that bill is.  Dennis has picked up from the news that heating costs are going to be up 60%.  Can’t do much about it but try to put on a heavier shirt or sweater.  

  Today is “unique talent day.”  I happen to have one.  I don’t give in and I don’t give up.  I believe Dennis has the same unique talent.  While Dennis was in recovery from having a toe amputated, he was following all instructions and kept on moving.  Wearing his wooden shoe to protect his foot he was mowing the acre, getting the snowblowers ready for snow and attending a school program for Nicholas.  His comment has been . . . considering what I had gone through earlier in the year he still had nine good toes and there were things that had to be done.  We do challenge each other to find things to keep our home up to par.  People that are squandering their days with nothing to show for their God-given days . . . go figure.

  Thankfulness is in abundance here on Stauffer Avenue.  May all of my family, lifelong friends and acquaintances find the peace tomorrow that passes all understanding. 

   
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  Noreen 4:41 pm on November 23, 2021 Permalink  

  Whew! 

  We are two appointments away from being done with Aspen Dental.  Whew!  They offer 100% satisfaction.  Dennis and I both needed to have work done.  I know that for both of us these are the last appliances we will need . . . unless something unforeseen happens.

  Something unforeseen happened to Lena while she was in the Buffalo Lake Care Facility.  Lena wore appliances for much of her adult life.  At a time when the flu bug was going around, Lena had an upset stomach and her lunch didn’t stay down.  She was savvy enough to use a container and rang for a an aide.  The aide was quick to appear and take the container from Lena and flush the contents down the toilet.  Wham bam!  Lena barely caught her breathe and when the aide appeared, Lena asked where her dentures were.  A red faced aide said she hadn’t looked at the contents of the container and all was flushed down the toilet.  The dentures had let go out of the mouth the same way her lunch had left the stomach.  What a panic.  On a day shortly after that, Lena had a ride in the facilities van to a clinic in Chaska called the Smile Clinic.  She had impressions done and shortly a new set of teeth arrived via UPS at the facility.  What an unforeseen event.

  With the work that Aspen Dental is doing, I know that our appliances will fit correctly and securely.  Now they are called appliances, aka: dentures.  Even the temporary ones have served us well.  Dr. Wagner in Buffalo Lake was the dentist that fit me for my first dentures.  Oh so many years ago when Carrie had drained me of all calcium in my system.  Baby came first.  It goes to show how unaware times were in regard to prenatal vitamins or prenatal health care.  

  If the winds were not howling, the 59 degrees would definitely feel like Indian Summer.  I will take the winds as long as there isn’t ice under foot.

  Tomorrow I am going to pick up the new lenses for my glasses.  I had the appointment in mid October and found out the current lenses were no longer as effective as they needed to be.  Last week I thought it was time to see why they had not called.  Immediately they thought the lab had screwed up.  Five minutes later a meek person called and said she had forgotten to send the order to the lab.  I wonder what happens to those elderly people that cannot advocate for themselves? 

  Time to close for the day.  I have been enjoying the beautiful sunsets.  This morning we were on the road at seven and who knew the sun rises were just as beautiful!