Sun 31 Dec

Lovely brunch with Hartmans yesterday here. Good to catch up with old friends, especially when you haven't spent time together for a long time. As soon as they left, we hopped in the Prius and drove down to Madison for a few things I wanted from Costco. Hit up Woodmans, Penzeys, and TJs as well. Had a nice Neapolitan quattri formaggi pizza and a beer at Pizza Brutta before heading home. Food: 8:05 am 100 g White Gull Inn coffee cake, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 30 Dec

Kind of a rushed morning to get to the Farmer's Market, driving, and home to finish preparations for brunch with Hartmans. Made a coffee cake and almond cake yesterday. Food: 8:05 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 29 Dec

Bob is kindly doing the recall work on my BlendJet. My knee is protesting from two days of hard use with two Zumba classes, a hike at Schmeeckle, and Bootstrap. Not going to gym today to further exacerbate it. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate malt-o-meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 28 Dec

Zumba again today! Looking forward to adding it to my regular Thursday routine. Shouldn't be a problem since it's at 9 am and Bootstrap isn't until afternoon. Food: 8:00 am 76 g cinnamn streusel coffee cake, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 27 Dec

I'm excited because since Nicole isn't available for Body Pump today, they have substituted Zumba with Angel! I'm a little nervous that I may have trouble with my knees, but I'll do what I can and enjoy it. Food: 7:55 am 78 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 26 Dec

Had a Merry Christmas text from Laura in the morning before she left for Texas with her friends, and a lovely evening with a tired Michael and Taylor to close the day. Taylor was still a little upset with her dad for not inviting her to their family gathering on Christmas Eve. They seemed to really like all their gifts and the wild rice stuffed squash went well with their roasted veggies. Michael's chocolate cake was delicious as always, and he left us some! Food: 8:00 am Chocolate malt-o-meal, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 25 Dec

Merry Christmas! Laura is heading out for Texas soon for her recuperative vacation with friends. I cantor at 9 so I need to leave soon to practice with Amy Formella. Haven't taken time to practice the psalm which is rumored to be tricky. Food: 7:40 am 76 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 24 Dec

Christmas Eve is here! Feels weird that it's a Sunday and we're not doing brunch with the Hartmans til Saturday. We don't usually go to church on the morning of Christmas Eve, but it's the Fourth Sunday of Advent in a truncated week. I honestly don't remember this happening before, though I'm sure it must have. Food: 8:00 am 92 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 23 Dec

David messaged me on Facebook to confirm that he has been too ill with Covid to make yule logs this year, so we won't bother to walk to the market as there's nothing else I really need. Hope to make cookie dough this morning so we can roll out, decorate, and bake them this evening. Hope to organize Christmas presents and stocking stuffers today as well. Food: 8:05 am 124 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 22 Dec

Another mild day, though grey and gloomy-looking out there. Need to do laundry after Body Pump and possibly assemble the Christmas stockings so I can see if there are any lacks. Food: 8:00 am 145 g cinnamon streusel Bundt cake, 98 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 21 Dec

Temperatures have moderated a bit again, no real expectation of a white Christmas. Nice coffee with the Bootstrap buds yesterday, Erin even came towards the end to show us her painting she's been working on. We were able to get the gifting done first without undue awkwardness. Food: 7:55 am 104 g Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 19 Dec

Dear God, please hold Nancy Sommerfeld in your tender care as she reels from first the unexpected death of her son and now the massive stroke of her daughter. It seems to mortal folk more than anyone could cope with. Food: 8:05 am Custard filled brioche, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 16 Dec

NIce trip to Madison yesterday afternoon/evening. Did some profitable erranding and had a lovely dinner at Lombardino's listening to the loquacious woman at the next table and her spoiled daughter. Having some frustrations at home with something that won't stop beeping at us. Bob is currently moving things around to try to eliminate possible sources. Food: 8:00 am Pastry cream-filled brioche, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 17 Dec

Cantored last night for 3rd Sunday of Advent, so we're using the free day today to drive back to Madison for a few last minute Costco things and dinner at Lombardino's. Got more good goodies from David and went overboard on treat things at Aldi's in a weak moment. Shall need to exercise restraint in how I consume them. Food: 7:55 am Brioche w/coconut & lemon curd, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 16 Dec

Nice time chatting with David at the Market. He agreed to make me a mini-Yule log next week. Remembered to get a stollen for Leone as well as another one for us. Was also able to get eggs, potatoes, carrots, and delicatas. Food: 9:35 am Brioche w/coconut & lemon curd, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 15 Dec

Christmas is encroaching quickly. Need to practice my music for tomorrow night's cantoring as some is unfamiliar. Food: 7:55 am 146 g Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 14 Dec

Supposed to be another fairly mild day, maybe even some sunshine. Just Bootstrap this afternoon. Pretty much finished trimming the trees yesterday (finally!) Michael and Taylor will come on Christmas in the evening for drinks and munchies after spending the day at her parents. Brunch with the Hartmans won't happen til the following Saturday, so not too much crazy preparation to do. Would like to plan some time to do the cookies, even if it's only Bob and I who mostly eat them. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry turnover, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 13 Dec

Should be slightly less chilly for the next few days, always welcome. Not much unusual on the schedule until I cantor on Saturday evening. Need to practice the music a bit, especially the verses for A Voice Cries Out. Food: 8:00 am Morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 12 Dec

Always nice to have a Tuesday with nothing more demanding than an afternoon massage to look forward to. Yesterday was quite busy with helping out at the Noel Hangar in the morning and OBT in the afternoon, so a quiet day will be appreciated. Food: 8:00 am Brioche bun filled with rum sugar?, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 11 Dec

Have to go to the Noel Hangar this morning and help Bootstrap finish up on preparing gift certificates for Christmas baskets. I wasn't available on Saturday when they started, but I said at that time that I would come Monday morning if they still needed help so I'm committed. Then OBT this afternoon, so a busy day. It may be difficult to get my steps in. Food: 8:00 am Custard filled brioche roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 10 Dec

Nice trip to Madison, getting used to our new Prius. Had a delightful lunch with a tired Hobbes and then did our usual erranding at TJs, Costco and Woodmans before heading home. Disappointed that my scale is up yet again to 150.2, but hoping it will come back down after a day out of town as it usually does. Food: 7:55 am Brioche w/lemon curd & chantilly, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 9 Dec

Nice mild day to walk to Farmer's Market to be greeted by David who was stationed right in front of the entrance. He had Dresden stollens, a couple of amazing brioche roll concoctions and some rum chocolate muffins. Currently enjoying a brioche with lemon curd and chantilly creme filling. Food: 9:00 am Brioche with lemon curd and chantilly creme, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 8 Dec

Second of two unseasonably warm days before more seasonal weather returns. Need to go to church tonight, otherwise Body Pump and laundry on the agenda. Tomorrow, David's holiday treats at the Farmer's Market, possible Norwegian goodies from Amherst Lutheran church, then visit Laura for lunch and errand in Madison. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry turnover, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 7 Dec

Supposed to have a couple of quite mild days today and tomorrow, upper 40s. A pleasant gift. Might try to get outside for a nice walk this morning. Bob got a cancellation appt yesterday so he was able to get his broken tooth extracted. He's recuperating with soft foods and taking it easy for the healing to commence. Hopefully he'll be able to get the bridge made before Spain. Food: 7:55 am 96 g cardamom coffee cake, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 6 Dec

Happy St Nicholas' Day. When the kids were little, I used to get little gifts to put in their shoes which they left outside their bedroom doors. Fond memories, though sometimes late-night runs to Target on Dec 5. I get a haircut from Cherie in her new digs in Park Ridge this afternoon. No longer the convenience of walking and returning library books after my hair appointment. Food: 8:00 am 98 g cardamom coffee cake, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 5 Dec

Temperatures are a little more comfortable this week, getting warmer yet toward the weekend. Scale dipped down to 149.6 today; nice to be into the 140s. Will work hard to get farther down yet. Hoping to trim the trees today and rescue my couch from all the boxes and bags. Also want to get in a ride on the exercise bike, and one of the financial guys is calling at 1:00. Food: 8:05 am 104 g cardamom coffee cake, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 4 Dec

Really nice trip to Door Co this weekend, except for the fact that we both seem to have come down with colds again. I'm not surprised about me, since my immunity was likely compromised by Tuesday with virtually no food and then abusing laxatives for my colonoscopy. Hopefully I can shake this one much more quickly than last time. Discovered a new supper club, finally got my burger from the Bayside Tavern, and found some excellent bakery and coffee at Fika for both breakfasts. The Christkindlmarkt was fun as always and we found some gift items at various places for Christmas. Scale up less than a pound for the endeavor. Food: 8:00 am 147 g cardamom roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 1 Dec

Off to Door Co today for Christmas market weekend. Still a little nervous about my bowels as I had a spurt of soft stuff in my undies when I was getting up from the computer to go upstairs to the bathroom yesterday morning. Still feeling occasional rumblings that could signal looseness. Taking extra undies and wearing a panty liner for additional security. Weight back this morning to the pre-prep level, but no higher so that's good. Food: 8:10 am 3/4 c Trader Joe's Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 114 g raspberries, coffee

Thurs 30 Nov

The end of November already. Having lunch with my Bootstrap buds today before our shift. Will try to get most of my laundry done since we're heading to Door Co for the weekend tomorrow. So nice to be able to eat what I want again - I can have my cereal with nuts and raspberries for breakfast again! And I got the 10-year pass on the next colonoscopy! Once every ten years is more than enough for that. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g raspberries, coffee

Wed 29 Nov

About half done with the dreaded prep. Plenty of diarrhea to show for it last night. Can hardly wait to have it occur again. But then, after the procedure, this will hopefully be done for another 10 years. New Christmas tree was delivered last night, but wasn't feeling ready to tackle putting it up. Hopefully tonight.

Tues 28 Nov

Clear liquid diet today. The Clinic staff just called to say I don't have to be there until 10:45 so I don't have to get up in the middle of the night to finish my colon prep. I might run out today to the grocery store to get some apple or white grape juice so I have something nutritive to consume other than just water, coffee, tea, bouillion, diet ginger ale, or True Lemon. I know bouillion has some nutritive value, but I won't drink much of it. Food: 8:05 am Coffee

Mon 27 Nov

Surviving my "no nuts, popcorn, seeds, or berries" days, and tomorrow is the last prep day before the actual colonoscopy. Then it's over! And I can look forward to Door Co and the Christmas market on the weekend. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate malt o meal, 1/2 c skim milk, med banana, coffee

Sun 26 Nov

When you're retired, the 4-day Thanksgiving weekend seems really long. When I was working, I relished every minute of it. Not that I mind now, but it's surprising to me to wake up to yet another weekend day. But today is different because we now have a new car! I think the good Lord wanted us to get a new car now, because it was just amazing that Bob noticed the vehicle available on Mark Motors website and we were able to be the first to test drive it right after they finished prepping it, and we were able to put down a deposit and buy it right away. Dan told us another woman who had been waiting for a Prius to come in noticed it just after we did but didn't want to put down a deposit until she drove it. She was angry that she never even had an opportunity to test drive it because we bought it right away. I'm sorry for her, but glad we were able to get the car sooner than we had ever hoped. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate Malt o Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, med banana, coffee

Sat 25 Nov

Brother Mark would be 72 years old today. Hard to imagine someone who is perpetually 14 years old in my memory as becoming an old man. I'm now four days out from my colonoscopy so I have to avoid fruits with seeds like my regular morning berries. Expect I should avoid our bread with seeds. Might buy a plain loaf at Aldi if I think I'll want sandwiches or toast. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, med banana, coffee

Fri 24 Nov

Not bad - I hit a new low weight of 152.4 the day after Thanksgiving even though I at a full Thanksgiving dinner. I guess it paid to give seconds on dressing, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce a longing look instead of giving in and saving the pumpkin pie to be my supper. I need to just keep on this road until I can get down to a weight more appropriate for my height and age. Food: 8:05 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g raspberries, coffee

Thurs 23 Nov

Happy Thanksgiving! Today I'll roast a turkey breast and make somewhat scaled-down stuffing and sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce and broccoli. We saved the last of this Costco pumpkin pie for today. Can still have berries with seeds in them today and tomorrow, so finished the blackberries today and will have raspberries tomorrow. Food: 7:55 am Cinnamon roll, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 22 Nov

Tomorrow is already Thanksgiving. Put my sweet potatoes into the slow cooker this morning to bake them so they're ready to make a small casserole. Will make a turkey breast roasted in the oven, TJs cornbread stuffing, cranberry sauce, and I should come up with some sort of vegetable. It will just be Bob and I, though I'll consider taking some over to Leone and Mick. Food: 8:05 am Frosted jelly donut, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 21 Nov

A free Tuesday, and not much on the calendar any more this week except Thanksgiving and a phone consult with the financial counselor on Friday. I'll go to Body Pump on Wed, but probably not on Friday. I hope we can put up the Christmas tree on Friday, or maybe even start on Thursday. Food: 8:00 am Lingonberry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 20 Nov

Already got my "medical appointment-of-the-week" out of the way with an 8:15 lab draw this morning. The doctor will determine whether twice daily red yeast rice is helping to better control my cholesterol. OBT this afternoon. Food: 8:45 am Chocolate-filled danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 16 Nov

Heading to Mpls for a weekend of Thursday shopping and Fri/Sat with Kurt & Barb. Temps should be mild but windy today with dropping temps to more normal November weather for the weekend. Will take warmer clothes than those we have needed this week for some hiking with K&B and getting around. Food: 7:50 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 15 Nov

Halfway through November, and still blessed with mild temperatures. If only it wasn't balanced out by cold temps into March and April, hopefully not May. Body Pump and the dentist today. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 14 Nov

Scale down again this morning to 151.6. Been a long time since I've seen numbers like that! I do think I'm moving more easily again as well as fitting comfortably into jeans that were previously snug. Hoping to keep the trend going til I hit a weight that feels right. Food": 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 13 Nov

Leone turns 103 today. Will stop by with her 103 card and a Costco-sized loaf of banana bread for her gift. Already 41° outside, and a few quite mild days in the immediate forecast. Food: 8:00 am Apple cider donut, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 12 Nov

Cantored yesterday so a free day today. Bob has been spending the weekend repairing the leaks in the hot tub where the benches attach, so it has been a quiet, uneventful weekend. We have next weekend to look forward to in Mpls, starting on Thursday. Scale was down to 152.8 today, a new low this time around! Food: 8:00 am Apple cider donut, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 11 Nov

Going to walk to the winter Farmer's Market today to pick up some more acorn squash since Michael approves of me making stuffed squash for Thanksgiving, even though we'll have to celebrate on a different day because they are having a bunch of their trans friends for a friendsgiving on the day. Food: 7:55 am Apple cider donut, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 10 Nov

A bit chilly this morning, but supposed to be warmer next week again. Yesterday was quite windy. Today Body Pump and laundry. Food: 7:50 am 72 g pumpkin coffee cake, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 9 Nov

Went out for a nice dinner at El Molcajete last night to use the $20 gift certificate from the ADRC for volunteering. Unfortunately, dinner out and a margarita caused the scale to jump up today, but hopefully only temporarily. Got the box of ornaments down from the attic yesterday evening for Michael and Taylor to use. I have so many that I can't use them all on my tree anymore, so I'm happy to share. Hope they get some enjoyment from them. Food: 7:55 am Pumpkin coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 8 Nov

Nothing on the agenda today besides Body Pump, so I should hopefully be able to squeeze in the exercise bike. Didn't succeed yesterday as I made muesli, took care of the health insurance issue with lengthy sessions on hold and in conversation with the "yes, ma'am" lady who didn't really understand the issue, a massage in the afternoon, a walk to the library to return a book due, and then add in meals, Duo, AC, and it was after 7 and too tired to do the bike. I should be more able to carve out some time to bike today. Food: 7:55 am 87 g pumpkin coffee cake, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 7 Nov

Yesterday was a really beautiful warm day with sunshine, albeit windy. The next several days will have highs in the 40s, so we still are being blessed with mild weather. Gotta try for a longer session on the exercise bike this morning. Food: 7:55 am Apple turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 6 Nov

Eating the last of David's pastries this morning. Should have had one more day but Bob didn't realize I had halved a couple of my previous servings so I still had two left and he ate the other one. Likely will be easier to control my calories at breakfast without David's over-sized deliciousness. Going to the GYN this morning to have her look at my droopy bladder. Hoping it isn't necessary to have surgery, but not sure how it will be managed. Food: 7:55 am Kouign amann, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 5 Nov

Nice trip to Madison yesterday, including lunch at Jacknife with Laura. She appears exhausted from carrying more than her share of the workload due to one co-instructor being over-worked elsewhere and the other too new to know what to do to help. Only 5 more weeks of actual semester, then finals, and this nightmare will be over. Next semester her co-instructor should be back to full-time on their shared class so it should be better. We got our erranding done which wasn't too intense. The new exercise bike had been delivered when we got home, and we were able to assemble it without too much difficulty. Now I just need to figure out how to access the programs so I can use it to best advantage. Food: 7:50 am 82 g bear claw, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 4 Nov

Heading down to Madison today. Won't bother to walk to the winter Farmer's Market as David won't be there and I don't really need any produce, or can get anything necessary at Costco/TJs/Woodmans. We will, however, stop off at the new market at Artist Point or whatever it's called in Plover to check out their selection. Might also pick up a couple of pastries from Mama Elda's while we're in the neighborhood before heading down to lunch with daughter. Food: 7:35 am 104 g bear claw, 94 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 3 Nov

39° to start the day is much more pleasant than the cold temps from a while back. We are grateful for even brief respites before winter truly sets in. Pleased this morning that my dark blue jeans fit comfortably again after losing a bit of weight. Nice to have tangible proof of weight loss. Meeting Bootstrap buds for coffee this morning, so need to get through breakfast quickly. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate raisin swirl, 97 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 2 Nov

Supposed to get highs into the 40s now for a few days, and indeed it's 27° now, better than yesterday. Saw the orthopedist and learned that I have moderate arthritis in my left knee and quite severe arthritis in my right knee, actually bone-on-bone on the inside edge. I could qualify to have that knee replaced whenever I choose, though in my mind, it's not nearly enough of a problem yet to go such a drastic route. Dr. Williams said that the ideal age to have a knee replacement is between mid- to late 60s through mid- to late 70s so you're young enough to have a good chance of handling the surgery well and recovering well, but old enough that the likelihood is that it will last you the remainder of your life. Typical duration of a knee replacement is circa 25 years. He gave me a sheet of recommended regular exercises, primarily to strengthen the quads and glutes, and said that people who hold off the longest and recover the easiest are people who regularly ride bikes (or exercise bikes). As I know I'll not be able to motivate myself to go to 212 often enough to "regularly" ride the exercise bike, especially in winter, we ordered one off of Amazon yesterday which should be here on Saturday. Bob agreed that we can set it up in the living room so it will be easily accessible and harder to ignore. I'm going to try to get to 212 this morning to ride one there for at least 15 min to get used to it. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate croissant, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 1 Nov

Today I see the orthopedist for the first time. My knee is more uncomfortable than usual, perhaps in preparation. Hopefully it won't give me trouble during Body Pump. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 31 Oct

Happy Halloween! And the first accumulating snowfall of the season with about an inch down and still falling. Nice day to stay at home and nest. Food: 7:55 am Cheese danish, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 30 Oct

Eric is still under Covid protocols, if not still actively sick, so he won't be at OBT today but the Daves should be there. Only 24° this morning, brrrr! Bob broke down and turned on the heat. Food: 8:00 am Peach danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 29 Oct

The month is waning, the cold is here. Trick or Treat on Tuesday evening. Cantored yesterday evening so free day today. Food: 8:15 am 107 g pumpkin cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 28 Oct

The cold weather has moved in, to stay for awhile unfortunately. David was at the market today in person, and he will not be doing the winter market regularly. He is suffering some of the aches and pains of joints, and he is having an endoscopy/colonoscopy next week for some other issues so he's slowing down. It's been a long, good run and maybe this will force us to start eating healthier breakfasts. Food: 9:20 am 98 g pumpkin cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 27 Oct

Cold feeling a bit accelerated today, but maybe a surge before the end? Tired of being sort of sick. Food: 7:55 am Apple turnover, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 26 Oct

Rain again; it's been a wet week, but mild temps to offset it a bit. Soul food was good last night; I could eat that duck gumbo as my comfort food often. Food: 8:00 am 85 g chocolate chip scone, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 25 Oct

Scale is continuing it's gradual downward trend, thankfully. Motivates me to continue to be watchful. Haircut this afternoon. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate chip scone, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 24 Oct

Supposed to rain all day today, so I'll be lapping the living room for steps. Need to make a point to remember my 5 pm OBT board meeting. Food: 8:05 am 86 g peach coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 23 Oct

Had a lovely weekend in Door County with amazing fall color. Picked up my cream scones from the Town Hall Bakery, increased my supply of Macintosh apples for sauce, collected several other goodies, got in nice hikes every day. Breakfasted on caramel rolls from the bakery, lunches at Chef's Hat and Julie's, dinners at the Mill Supper Club and Island Fever. Scale is up a pound or so, but back to work today. Food: 8:00 am 83 g pecan coffee cake, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 20 Oct

Heading to Door Co for the weekend, hoping for some nice color and hiking though we may encounter rain. My cold is in the drippy stage at present with some sneezing and coughing. Bob is sounding a little better with lest chest sound to his cough. Hopefully we'll both mend soon. Food: 8:00 am Apple turnover, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 19 Oct

Inevitably I caught the cold Bob has had for a week now. As yet, it's early stages and doesn't seem too bad and hopefully if I take good care of it, it will improve quickly. Would be a shame if we are both feeling poorly in Door Co. Food: 8:00 am Apple turnover, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 18 Oct

Weather has stayed relatively mild this week, temps in seasonable 50s. Hopefully it will be nice for hiking this weekend in Door Co. Looking forward to it. Food: 8:00 am Baked apple cider donut, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 17 Oct

Poor Bob is still suffering from a bad cold. It's tough for him and tough to watch. Gotta gather my financial info before 10 am to do a Zoom call with a financial counselor. I may find out that I don't have enough assets to qualify for their services. Food: 7:55 am Iced cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 16 Oct

Need to make a new "100" card for Leone as that one got misplaced and Mick is going to frame the "100", "101", and "102" with space for the "103" for her. I took her the knee brace from Aldi at Mick's request yesterday and she really likes it. Because it just Velcros on, it's easier to put on and off and infinitely adjustable. Glad it's working for her so far. Still waiting for myself to hear from SPO regarding an appointment. Food: 8:05 am Baked apple cider donut, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 15 Oct

Nice day trip to Madison yesterday. The rain was done so we drove in sunshine til about Portage, and even in the clouds it was decent in Madison. Lunched at La Brioche and split an enormous chocolate eclair for dessert. (Had a ham and asparagus omelette, quite low calorie count, so I didn't feel too guilty.) Did the usual TJs, Costco, Woodman's run and stopped briefly at Smart Motors, 10 min before they closed, to talk about possible cars. Sounds like if we get our name on a serious list, we might be able to get a Corolla hybrid or a Prius in about a year or so. Looked online when we got home, and I think I'd prefer a Corolla hybrid because I could get the moon roof whereas Prius doesn't offer it. Food: 8:00 am 134 g iced cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 14 Oct

Rain stopped and sun's peeking through. Walked to the market on a windy morning, but no David. Not really surprised, as he would have had to have been baking yesterday when it rained all day, not really ideal conditions for baking. Did get a few squash and some of Henry's wife's apple cider donuts. Food: 9:00 am Chocolate Malt-o-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 84 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 13 Oct

Haven't had a Friday the 13th for awhile; fitting that it's near Halloween. Always makes me think of my mom who died on a Friday the 13th. Very rainy day today, predicted to last all day. Will have to really motivate myself to go out for Body Pump, but I can do it. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 86 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 12 Oct

Cool morning again. Plan to go visit Aunt Leone this morning now that she's home if I get the go-ahead from Mick. Painted a jack-o-lantern picture at the Plover Library yesterday with Maggie. It's been a very busy week and I was tired yesterday evening. No rest today with Bootstrap and HSP Evening of Renewal tonight. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear, 86 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 11 Oct

Leone is coming home from River Pines today; Mick just stopped by to pick up the gait belt to have on hand if needed. A friend of his had a shower chair and some other equipment they will use, and Hospice provided a hospital bed. Sounds like theyr'e good to go. Food: 8:00 am Bear claw, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 10 Oct

Today I get my knees xrayed and a massage in the afternoon, committee meeting at 5. I made enough mac n cheese yesterday to repeat today so I don't have to worry about making dinner before or after the meeting. Dr. Dominii will read the xrays and get back to me whether I will need to see an orthopedist at this time. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate nut brioche twist, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 9 Oct

Curling was fun and I managed to do it the normal way, except I needed help every single time to get to my feet after releasing the stone. All your weight is on the foot with the slider, and I just didn't have the strength/confidence to straighten to standing without the stabilization of the coach's hand. I was proud because when we played 2 ends, I got 3 stones in the house (with the help of some good sweeping). We won't make the commitment to join and play for real, partially because we'd miss at least a month of the season. We booked a month in Denia, Spain from Jan 28-Feb 26 at a nice flat in a complex right next to the sea. Excited! Food: 8:05 am Just black coffee - lab work for physical at 9:30

Sun 8 Oct

Tonight we learn to curl. Finally remembered to sign up for a session before they were past. Hopefully it will be fun (and not painful). Food: 8:00 am Peach danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 7 Oct

Chilly morning to walk to the Farmer's Market - upper 30s! Puffy jacket and gloves weather. David had pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon rolls and a lemon drizzled concoction in addition to his regular stock, and I had to get the honey bears at it looks like a perfect batch. Food: 8:55 am Pumpkin cream cheese cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 6 Oct

Exhausting day yesterday. Walked to Lillian D'Ercole's memorial service at Holy Spirit which was very good and well-attended by parishioners and Suzuki folks, grabbed a sandwich and cookie to eat while walking home and didn't have a very long time before Bootstrap called and asked if I could come a little early as they were swamped. Worked steadily for 3 1/2 hours filling orders and pickups with barely a moment to stand still for a deep breath. Afterwards, Bob and I went to Metro for our Covid and flu vaccine shots. I was way too tired to cook, so we went out to the new Roth Supper Club/Pizzeria to try their pizza and I emailed Carol that I was begging off from the Social Justice meeting. Came home after supper and had all of my Duo to do, as well as Animal Crossing. Read for a very short time before getting in the hot tub and bed. Worked on exercising my shot arm with a 2 lb. weight while doing Duo and AC; seems to have helped as the arm isn't too sore today. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Cluster cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 5 Oct

The cooler weather is creeping upon us. Right now it's just 49° and tomorrow the higns are only predicted in the 40s. Had a really nice time at the Loggers and Lagers last night, though my scale took a jump today in response to beer and salty brisket. Feeling a little salt-bloated, so hoping that jump is a temporary thing. Also didn't have a poop yesterday which could contribute. Food: 8:10 am Creamy buckwheat hot cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 1/4 c dried blueberries, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 4 Oct

Loggers and Lagers tonight, beer and good Rockman's food. I should make sure I eat lightly in preparation. This year we'll know we can bring unopened beers home so we don't have to open a beer at every course. We will meet the Beckers and sit with them again this year, so that is something to look forward to as well. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate nut brioche, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 3 Oct

Last forecast day in the 80s (for now), then temperatures gradually getting back to more seasonal normal. Wore shorts today to enjoy the last little vestige of summer. Food: 7:55 am Raisin chocolate snail, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 2 Oct

Yesterday was a truly beautiful fall day, with temperatures into the 80s, abundant sunshine. We made good use of the day by driving up to the Ice Age Trail beyond Wausau for a lovely hike, then having dinner on the terrace of Tine and Barrel in Weston. Today also promises to be lovely. Food: 7:55 am Peach danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 1 Oct

Reunion is now a thing of the past. It went quite well, and seemed well-attended. Got to see a lot of folks I haven't seen for a very long time and chat with some I never previously spent much time with. Cindy Rowe sat next to me at dinner and we talked travel. Dinner was quite good, nobody seemed to drink obnoxiously. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 29 Sept

Didn't sleep very well last night for unknown reasons. My mind just didn't shut down though I was able to rest. It was weird, like I was just laying down and it didn't settle down much. At least it wasn't restless tossing and turning. Food: 8:05 am Berry cheese danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 28 Sept

Having lunch at Wicked Willow with my Bootstrap buds today before our shift. Weather's predicted to get warmer again by the weekend; will seem a little strange as I'm already in a fall mindset. Food: 8:00 am Berry cheese danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 27 Sept

Subbing in at OBT so Rick Foss doesn't have to carry the shift alone. Feels weird to get up early to go to work at 8 am; wouldn't want to do this shift every week. Felt I should volunteer to answer Rick's request since he has been so good about filling in for me when I have needed subs, both at OBT and as a reading tutor in the past. Food: 6:50 am Berry cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 26 Sept

Rain - it continues. It appears to have followed us home from up north. I'm getting rather tired of the sound of it. I want the earth to get the moisture it needs, but it may be nearing the point of excess. There were certainly flooded areas along the lakeshore when we drove home, and I prefer we don't have that here. But it's not for me to say. Food: 8:00 am Raspberry rhubarb muffin, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 25 Sept

A lovely week at the North Shore, with sunshine or light clouds 6 out of 7 days. Got plenty of hiking, including the 7+ mile Cascade River Trail and about 4 miles on the Mystery Loop among outstanding color. Was proud of myself for logging all my food and not having much snack food or really heavy food. Checked the Noom app before ordering or buying some foods to make good choices. As a result, didn't really gain any weight during the week. Starting to feel the good habits sinking in. Food: 8:00 am Cherry turnover, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 17 Sept

Today's the day! Heading up to the North Shore as soon as we're breakfasted and packed. Hoping for another beautiful day like yesterday, but we'll take whatever we get just to be on a nice vacation. Food: 6:40 am Cherry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 16 Sept

Leone had a heart attack yesterday; is in St Mike's. Met with Mick with the hospital SW this morning to talk about managing her care. Mick was so sure she was gone yesterday, but when we met with her this morning, she looked very good and was eating and resting. They will do a PT assessment to see if she can be sufficiently mobile to be at home with some come-in supports, but Mick is not feeling that he can manage by himself if she needs a lot of physical help. They will investigate whether there are openings at Whispering Pines, the Health Care Center, or Dimensions (the former Oakridge). They will also bring in Hospice which is paid for by her insurance. None of the residential options are paid for room and board, not even St Mike's which is not in her provider network. Told him I will be leaving tomorrow for the North Shore til next week Saturday, but Joan is returning from Italy on Tuesday. Food: 9:55 am Raspberry Antwerp square, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 15 Sept

Pretty sunny and still in the mid-50s this morning. Body Pump and get the laundry going, massage at 1 pm. Need to start getting organized for the trip up north next week. Trying hot buckwheat cereal for breakfast today - kind of bland but fairly tasty. Food: 7:55 am Buckwheat hot cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 1/4 c blueberries, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 14 Sept

Another chilly morning, albeit sunny. Bootstrap this afternoon and dinner with Heather this evening. Had the pop-up dinner from Chef's Table last night. The duck wild mushroom gumbo was outstanding; I savored every bite. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate croissant, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 13 Sept

Something extra on my agenda every day now til we leave for the North Shore. Today haircut and order Po' Boys from Chef's Kitchen for dinner tonight. Temps are quite chilly this morning, but cool evenings have been good for sleeping. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate croissant, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 12 Sept

Sunny and 47° and a day off free of commitments. Tomorrow haircut, Thursday dinner with Heather, Friday massage, and cantor on Saturday so the rest of the week is busy before leaving for the North Shore on Sunday. Guess I'll just enjoy the free time today. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate brioche twist, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 11 Sept

One more week of home life before heading up to the North Shore, hopefully to enjoy some full fall color. Looks like some sunshine today after a thoroughly grey day yesterday. Tried to head up to Wausau for hiking on the Ice Age Trail in the afternoon, but ran into the start of rain just north of town, so returned and walked Schmeeckle to finish our step count for the day. Back to One Big Tent this afternoon after a long hiatus, first time for me since showers have been banned. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 9 Sept

Beautiful fall day, blue skies and sunshine, temps predicted into the 70s. Currently at 57° but really humid so we got sweaty walking. Heading down to Madison today, meeting Hobbes for lunch at Jacknife, then stocking up at TJs, Costco, and Woodman's. Been awhile since our last Madison shopping trip, and TJs pumpkin spice coffee should be out. Looking forward to a good day. Food: 9:00 am Raspberry antwerp square, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 8 Sept

Looking forward to going to Madison tomorrow and lunching with Hobbes. Got some things to stock up on since we haven't shopped in Madison for awhile. Today is the first time in awhile that I'll be doing Body Pump twice in a week, and after a fairly long hiatus at that. Not too sore yet, but we'll see how it goes. Food: 7:55 am 1 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 7 Sept

Cooler night for sleeping, cooler day today. Nice to be back in my own bed with the window open, blowing a nice cool breeze across the bed. Looking forward to getting back to Bootstrap this afternoon after what seems like quite a long absence. Was good to get back to Body Pump yesterday, and now that summer's over, Nicole is teaching on Fridays again as well, so I'll be back tomorrow if I'm not too horribly sore. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 6 Sept

Nice to be back in my own bed last night, and to be able to shower right away and come down to sit at my computer during breakfast as normal. Although for a minute, I didn't think I was going to get my computer to turn on. Not happy that my weight went down for awhile when I started Noom, but then popped back up again. Possibly water retention from the sudden heat/humidity bout, so we'll see if it drops back to where it had started to settle. Food: 7:55 am Bear claw, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 5 Sept

Had a very nice birthday yesterday with a walk at Schmeeckle where we saw a barred owl sitting in a tree beside the path. Both kids messaged me Happy Birthday, though Michael needed a nudge from Dad because he was overwhelmed with Taylor being sick (non-Covid). Bob surprised me by agreeing to go to El Mezcal for dinner on the patio. Diego was our waiter and always so much fun. He brought out a big sombrero and a huge fried ice cream treat when we were finishing our meals, and also a shot of blue and other colored alcohol. It was so good to get out and have a little fun! Food: 8:05 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 4 Sept

I'm 68 years old now, poof! The years just keep adding on to numbers that become harder and harder to believe. But here we are, and it's okay.

Sun 3 Sept

Yesterday the Covid household routine started to get to me. We did get out to walk to the Farmer's Market and did get pastries, drove to the other market stand by Family Video, and walked at Schmeeckle, so I shouldn't have felt so isolated, but I guess it was just a down day. Bob offered to get takeout, but I couldn't honestly think of anything I wanted to eat so we just had Rocky's. Hoping I'm feeling a bit more upbeat today. I suspect part of it is knowing I'd be going to the Fair today.

Sat 2 Sept

Slept better the second half of the night last night instead of the first half as usual. Gearing up for the 99-100 degree heat predicted over the next few days; will be glad when it's done. Sorry not to be leaving for Minneapolis, Kurt & Barb, and the Fair tomorrow, but it wasn't meant to be and it would have been really hot anyway.

Fri 1 Sept

So begins September already, though it will likely still be quite hot for at least a few days. We won't be heading to Minneapolis as planned for Fair weekend courtesy of Covid, but it would have been a very hot Fair nonetheless. Instead the days of isolation in the house drag on, punctuated gratefully by morning walks at Schmeeckle which let us get steps, a change of scenery, and some much-needed fresh air. I dread having to sleep in the spare room a few nights if it truly gets as hot as they say it will.

Thurs 31 Aug

Last of the nice days this week with predicted highs in the upper 70s, then heat wave extraordinaire for Labor Day weekend. Let's hope they over-estimated. Yesterday was darn near perfect weather-wise.

Wed 30 Aug

Hopefully winding down toward the end of this Covid thing. I will likely test today to see if I'm negative yet. Bob probably has a few more days left. I'll be disappointed if I'm still testing positive; I'm very ready to be done.

Tues 29 Aug

Decided it's probably fine that we can't go to the MN State Fair this year because it's supposed to get really hot again this weekend, so walking around in the crowds and the heat would be exhausting. Neither of us has enough energy back yet to be able to do much. We both rested more yesterday which should be a good thing. Melissa contacted me about how I let her know when I'm not available, so while we were in conversation, I decided to opt out of this week as well to be safe for the others. No OBT next week because Monday is Labor Day, so hopefully by next week Thursday, things will be back to normal again.

Mon 28 Aug

Decided to come down to the computer area for a bit even before my shower so I could sit at my computer before Bob comes up. I'm not comfortable sitting next to each other while he has Covid so we don't bounce contagion back and forth, so I've been hanging out in the living room when he's up and sitting at the computer. I can sneak in for a bit if he naps, but he doesn't do that often or for long. I can do much of my morning stuff on the phone, as I do on vacation, but I like my computer. It's my morning routine.

Sat 26 Aug

Bob tested positive for Co-vid this morning so we are definitely off for the Fair this year. Let Kurt and Barb know right away in case they want to make other plans. Having some difficulty convincing Bob that he's not going to be able to go to work next week. Food: 8:10 am Maple bacon pershing roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 25 Aug

Signed up for Noom yesterday, will at least give it a try. Was delighted that I had a much more normal night last night and am feeling somewhat better today. Hopefully it will continue. I'm hoping for no relapses (or no Bob getting sick) so that I can be healthy in good conscience to go stay with Kurt & Barb next weekend and go to the Fair. We'll see. Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 24 Aug

An eventful trip to Ironwood. Enjoyed the Kimball Inn west of Hurley so much for our whitefish on Friday that we returned on Saturday for a different meal since they would then be closed until after we left. Saturday we had a great day with a hike at Lake Gogebic State Park, aforementioned dinner at Kimball Inn, and we attended a concert at the Hurley High School with soprano Ann Toomey and accompanist Madeline. Altogether a lovely day. Sunday we walked to church at Our Lady of Peace, then to Ben's Place for mushroom/Swiss omelets. Did the circuit of Super One, though decided our leftovers would be better than deli food for dinner. Did an afternoon hike through Miner's Park in town before a quiet evening in. Monday I woke up feeling like a very bad cold and not enough energy to get out of bed. I stayed in pajamas and in bed almost all day, except for a brief venture downstairs to sleep on the couch. Didn't even have the energy to read or peruse my phone. Was pretty sure it was Co-vid. Didn't eat anything all day and had to force myself to drink a little water. Tuesday I was able to get up and shower and eat my usual breakfast, coffee cake and blackberries. By a little after ten, we went out to Walgreens (me wearing a mask), to buy a Co-vid test kit. Also went to the European Treats store, again me wearing a mask, to pick up goodies. Returned home where I stayed the rest of the day. Have not been worried about step counts since getting sick, but did manage 9/9 today. Test unsurprisingly was positive for Co-vid. Ate about 1 1/3 pieces of the last of my Renards string cheese for lunch. Attempted to walk to Suffolk St Eatery to pick up sandwiches for supper, but about halfway I realized this was too much for me so we returned home for the car. Once we got home, I was pretty spent. At about 4:30, I laid on the couch and went to sleep for about 3 hours, uninterested in eating my dinner. At 7:30, I got up and went upstairs to bed for the night. Was able to get up fairly normally on Wed, have breakfast, and get packed up to leave by 11:00. Fortunately ran into the cleaning lady coming to clean as we were pulling out, so I was able to go over to her car and explain about having Co-vid so she could take more-than-usual precautions and care while cleaning. She was very grateful as she lives with her 87-year-old mother who just had surgery, so she went home to collect better gloves. Food: 8:20 am Kouign amann, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 18 Aug

Getting ready to head up to Ironwood for a few days for hiking and relaxation. Plan to try a new supper club tonight west on US2, the Kimball Inn. Hopefully will get in a morning hike at Schmeeckle before we leave to get a head start on steps for the day. Food: 8:00 am White Gull Inn blueberry coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 17 Aug

Getting ready for our mini-vacation to Ironwood. Hoping to bake a coffee cake this morning to take along for breakfasts or other snacking. Glad I chose to do the laundry yesterday when it was sunny and breezy for drying. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 16 Aug

Had a nice massage yesterday. Today I'll likely wash the sheets, but possibly save the remaining laundry for Thursday morning so everything's fresh to pack. Food: 7:35 am Bear claw, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 15 Aug

Back to sunshine today. Yesterday was rainy and busy, and I just decided not to worry about getting 12,000 steps. I think I only crested about 8,000 but that's okay. Did not feel like spending my evening running laps in my living room. Best not to be obsessed. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 14 Aug

Coffee with the Bootstrap buds this morning at the Coffee Vault. Was hoping to walk, the predicted rain is here. May even last long enough that I have to drive to OBT. Will have to work to get steps today. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate croissant, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 13 Aug

Summer continues, but it's on the wane. Still warm temps during the days and fairly warm nights. Even next week in Ironwood, they're predicting highs of 80° and lows in the 50-60s. I'll take a few warm things just in case, but I'm expecting continued summery temps. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 12 Aug

Cool temps for our walk to the Market this morning, but still plenty of humidity. Emma was working the pastry stall so we could chat. Nice to get a good chunk of steps in before temps rise. Food: 8:45 am Mixed berry Antwerp square, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 11 Aug

I got paid! $545.11. That probably doesn't include the 5.5 hours from the previous pay period, but I'll have to do some searching for a check stub to find out for sure. Got some rain in the night; my herb garden looks happier. Some of the lettuce is even standing up again! Food: 7:50 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 10 Aug

Didn't make it down to the 50s last night, so sleeping was about the same as it's been. Bootstrap this afternoon, no other commitments but I should try to get some muesli made. Food: 7:35 am Costco cherry cheese danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 9 Aug

Body Pump again this morning. I was surprisingly not as sore last week as I had expected after more than a month off. Maybe I used more muscles hiking than I thought. Food: 7:45 am Costco cherry cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 8 Aug

Unscheduled day, a less common occurrence than in the past. No special plans or agenda, guess I'll just enjoy the leisure. Food: 7:50 am Costco cherry cheese danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 7 Aug

Quiet week, but I feel discombobulated on the days of the week after spending Fri/Sat in Madison. Hopefully things will settle as I fall into the rhythm of a normal week. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 6 Aug

Successful trip to Madison to help Hobbes get shelves put up and mount her TV above the cabinets Bob helped to build a few weeks ago. My contribution was to paint the shelves and supports so at least I was able to do something. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 3 Aug

Back to warm and humid weather, at least for awhile. Free morning today will be appreciated, then Madison tomorrow to help Laura build shelves above the cabinets we helped build last time. (Though my inclusion in "we" is minimal.) Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 2 Aug

Weather is getting a bit warmer again, hopefully not oppressively so for too long. I feel guilty complaining when so much of the country, and indeed the world, is suffering with much higher temperatures. Would that we all could enjoy some pleasant moderate temps for awhile. Food: 7:35 am Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 1 Aug

Bob moved to Stevens Point 55 years ago today. Weather is pretty pleasant, currently at 60°. Supposed to be sunny with a high of 86°. Totally free day for the first time in awhile, at least it seems that way. Food: 7:45 am Morning bun, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 31 Jul

Yesterday was a picture-perfect day, weather-wise, and I was disappointed that we weren't able to make better use of it by hiking somewhere. Bob was tired from the drive from Madison the day before and wasn't up for anything beyond a Schmeeckle walk. It was lovely there as well, but I couldn't shake the disappointment of not taking better advantage of such perfect hiking weather. My bad for not appreciating what I had instead of wishing for more. Food: 7:55 am Morning bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 30 Jul

Today would have been my mom's 105th birthday. Happy Birthday, Mom! Nice drive down to Madison, berry crepes at La Brioche, shopping at TJs, Costco, and Woodman's, and dinner at Lombardino's. Pleasant day, though a bit warm with the bright sun shining through the car windows. Otherwise the temperatures were just around 80, a nice respite from the higher heat and humidity. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate chip danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 29 Jul

Nice walk to the Market, but no David! However, we stopped at the food cart in the patio of Father Fats and had delicious chocolate-frosted banana-filled eclairs and an order of powdered sugar-covered donut holes with iced coffee to take the place of our pastries. Yum! Food: 8:00 am Banana eclair, 3 donut holes, iced coffee 9:10 am 102 g blackberries, Nespresso

Fri 28 Jul

Last day of work today. It's been nice working with Rachel and Taz, but I'm ready to get back to normal life and not having to get up at 5:45 several days a week. I'd also like to get back to Body Pump. Food: 6:40 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 27 Jul

Hot. The bedroom was at 89° almost the entire night. Not conducive to good sleep. Today may be the hottest day this week, falling slightly thereafter. Food: 6:45 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffe

Wed 26 Jul

Thunder, lightning, and a little rain this morning. Need to beg a ride to work from Bob since I don't have a parking permit. Will be tough to get many steps most of the day as I'll be on my own in the store and can't get out for walks. I'll have to lock up the store when I need to use the rest room. Food: 6:45 am Bear claw, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 25 Jul

Nice to have the morning free, only day this week. Temps at 66° for now, I'll enjoy it. Got pretty tired yesterday with morning at ASI, afternoon at OBT pretty busy. Hopefully just an afternoon 12:30-5:30 at the ASI store will be less tiring. Food: 7:50 am Kouign amann, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 24 Jul

Good day yesterday with a morning walk in Schmeeckle, coffee date with the Bootstrap buds at the Coffee Vault, short hike at the Ice Age Trail in Hartman Creek State Park, and beer and pizza at the Wheel House. Today purports to begin the hot streak, and contains 8-12 at the ASI Store and 1-4 at OBT. Hoping to have at least one coworker at OBT today, and maybe a few less towels. Food: 6:40 am Chocolate croissant, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 22 Jul

Pleasant weather to walk to the Farmer's Market; Emma was selling today. She said David is mulling over retiring, a thing I have sensed from him. That will change our morning routine and we may not get to the Farmer's Market as often if he's not there to provide our pastry needs. Doesn't sound imminent, though. Food: 8:55 am Mixed fruit Antwerp square, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 21 Jul

Suzuki 8-1 today, then free for the day. Was unsurprisingly exhausted after my busy day yesterday. Board meeting went til after 7, so I was too tired to even eat a decent supper. Had a piece of string cheese while doing my Duo and AC and called it a night. Food: 6:50 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 20 Jul

The suitcases came home yesterday! Both of them! I was so happy. I'm wearing my right knee sleeve now since it proposes to be a very busy day today with ASI Store 8-12, Bootstrap 1-4, and OBT board meeting at 5:15. Figured my knee could use a little extra support. Food: 6:45 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 19 Jul

Day off from Suzuki today and no other commitments! Tomorrow is extremely full, so I'll take the opportunity to rest up today. Would have gone to Body Pump, but FedEx is scheduled to drop off Bob's suitcase, possibly between 9:40-1:40, and they will require a signature. Sure wish they'd bring mine, too. Food: 7:45 am Honey bear, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 18 Jul

Short day at Suzuki, only 12:30-3:30 with the morning free to make more muesli, get Duo done, etc. Sure wish we'd get more word on our suitcases. I miss my CBD roll-on. Right hip was really sore last night. Food: 7:50 am Kouign amann, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 17 Jul

Busy day ahead: 8-12 at Suzuki, walk home, grab a quick lunch, walk to OBT for 1-4. Expect I'll be a little wiped by the time I get home this evening. At least I'm remembering to dress a little warmer so I'm not freezing in the ASI store. Food: 6:40 am Bear claw, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 16 Jul

Sunny, slightly cooler, afternoon thunderstorms possible today. I work at the Suzuki store from 12-5:30, so I'll walk there immediately after church. Taking a small lunch to hopefully eat before the shift starts. Hoping it's not storming yet at 5:30 when it's time to walk home. May have to call for a ride home. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 15 Jul

Walked to Farmer's Market and David himself was there, so had a nice chat. He's been busy with his beekeeping and noticed that there were beehives in one of my online vacation photos. There were thunderstorms in the night, and it's quite a bit more humid today, noticeably so. Food: 8:50 am Mixed berry Antwerp square, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 14 Jul

First day of work at Suzuki Institute store today. Glad that I don't seem to have as many hours this year. Hope it all works out well. Food: 7:45 am Prune paczki, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 13 Jul

Got my new Fitbit yesterday so I could once again track steps and sleep. Told me I had an 87 sleep score last night with lots of deep sleep. Also got my schedule for working the Suzuki store yesterday; I start tomorrow. I appreciate that I'm scheduled lightly, only 45.5 hours over the two weeks, which is plenty for me. Michael came over and chatted awhile, and I gave him $2000 toward his cat's unexpected surgery to ease their burden and worry. Food: 7:50 am Polish turnover, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 12 July

Just realized that 48 years ago today, I got married to Steve. Not the smartest thing I ever did, but things worked out okay in the end. Part of the process of growing up, I guess. First morning home from a wonderful European vacation. Still waiting for our suitcases to follow us home. A too-quick transfer in Frankfurt, Germany didn't apparently allow the airline enough time to get our luggage off the plane from Milan and transferred clear across the airport to the plane to Chicago. We barely made it ourselves. I think we were the last people to board the plane. Travels were safe and we had a wonderful time. My knees has some soreness, but they made it through the hikes, even though we sought to skip some sections and modify others. Got lots of beautiful photos and I didn't even gain any weight! Couldn't believe my eyes when the scale showed right where I left it. We ate well, but I guess the exercise was sufficient to offset it! Food: 7:35 am Polish cream horn pastry, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 24 Jun

One more hour and we'll be on the road (hopefully). Busy getting last-minute things packed and organized. Remembering things like not to have my Munich-Fussen train tickets zipped in an inner pocket of my suitcase so I have to open the case completely to get at them. Lord, please keep us safe and able to do the things we hope to do. Keep our families and home safe in our absence. Amen. Food: 6:30 am 1/2 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 23 Jun

In the middle of the night, I realized I can't carry any bags or other things that don't fit in my suitcase on the plane or I will have to carry them in my backpack when I hike. We can only have the one suitcase transferred, so I need to repack today to fit everything in there. I'll try the compression bags, and if they aren't enough, I'll pare down the underwear, socks, and clothes to make more room. These new suitcases really don't hold anywhere near as much as the old ones. It's the price of wheels. Food: 7:50 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 22 Jun

The hot weather continues. Hopefully once we're in the Alps, we'll get a little break. It would be difficult to walk long distances with elevation changes in this kind of heat. Bootstrap today without Kathy or Maggie or Ann; hopefully Melissa has scheduled some subs. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 21 Jun

Nasty night last night. A beetle crawled on him and he instinctively batted it away, right at me. It whirred its wings and landed near my left shoulder as I was on my back. I yelled and batted it away and it apparently went inside the neck of my pajama top and got quiet for awhile. 10-20 min later, I turned over and felt it in my right armpit/boob area. I tried to grab it and toss it, but apparently missed and it went quiet again for awhile. Another 10-20 min later, I felt it again and successfully grabbed it and tossed it on the bed after taking off my pajama top and shaking it out thoroughly. For quite a while thereafter, I felt phantom creepy crawlies all over. Not a restful situation. Food: 7:45 am Bear claw, 84 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 20 Jun

Had a long period of wakefulness in the middle of the night last night thinking about trip issues, etc. Finally took ibuprofen to relax back into sleep. Hoping to get a pedicure this afternoon to get my feet in best shape for hiking and sandals. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 99 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 19 Jun

Had a very nice cook-in with Michael and Taylor last night. Planned to cook out veggie burgers on the grill, but the grill ran out of gas. Michael was used to cooking the burgers on a cast iron skillet, so we proceeded in that way. Food: 8:00 am Cherry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 18 Jun

Father's Day and Michael's birthday, all rolled into one. Cooking out with Michael and Taylor this evening to celebrate. Got to bake a vegan chocolate cake right after Mass so it cools in time to frost it. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 17 Jun

Getting warm again. Shed my jacket halfway down to the Farmers' Market, and am sweating on the return. Good to have David's pastries this week before vacation, though we've been limiting ourselves to 5 days. Nothing like a fresh Antwerp square with huge berries on a Saturday morning. Food: 8:55 am Antwerp square, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 16 Jun

Bob thinks he might be free to hike at Rib this afternoon, so I'll try to move laundry along quickly. Only one more week before we leave for Europe, and it's getting tight. I'm worried that I won't be able to fit everything, including my hiking poles into the new suitcase. I'd like to try a test pack this weekend. Food: 7:50 am Swedish coffee cake, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 15 Jun

Hopefully a little less humid today than yesterday, though it wasn't awful. Slowly chipping away at trip planning. Bob did a chunk of his yesterday as he didn't work. Food: 7:55 am Costco cherry cheese pastry, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 14 June

Supposed to get a bit warmer again today, and the sun is shining. Didn't sleep very well last night, so I'm feeling a little groggy. Hopefully I'll get my energy groove in time for Body Pump. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 13 Jun

Blessed rain today, forecast to last all day. You can almost hear the earth sigh with delight. Food: 7:50 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 12 Jun

Another cool, brisk morning - one of two or three in a row predicted. Feels kind of good to put on warmer clothes again. Had a really nice hike in the cooler temps at Rib yesterday afternoon. Food: 8:05 am Costco cherry cheese pastry, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 11 Jun

Very nice visit with Laura, successfully installed the cabinets in her condo, nice dinner together at Pig in a Fur Coat, Bob and I had a very nice motel at Homewood Suites by Hilton with an excellent breakfast including real oatmeal with fixings and cheese omelets. Got our shopping done at Costco/TJs/Woodmans and home reasonably early on Sat night. Need to go over the new Mass parts this morning before co-cantoring with Dave Knaapen. Food: 8:05 am Cherry/cheese danish from Costco, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 9 Jun

Got up early this morning to get ready to go down to Laura's for the next couple of days. Was quite tired yesterday evening and didn't feel like packing or organizing for the mini-trip, and have spent more time thinking this week about the big vacation coming up soon. Will be nice to spend some actual time with Laura, even if most of it is she and Bob working on the shelves. Maybe I can make myself somewhat useful, and if not, I'll do Duo, read, walk the trails near her house, or otherwise amuse myself. Food: 7:00 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 114 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 8 Jun

Seems a bit cooler today, though the frost warnings on the radio were overrated. I'm back in a long-sleeve t-shirt for now at least. Laundry this morning since we're going to Madison tomorrow for a couple of days to help Laura with her shelves in her condo. Food: 7:45 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 7 Jun

Pleasant cooler morning today, nice. Enjoyed the drawing class last night, but probably won't feel the need to do another unless the subject is something I really want. I like my Highland coo, but probably won't display him anywhere in particular. Food: 7:55 am Kouign amann, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 6 Jun

Tonight I go to the Local Goat in Amherst to do a charcoal drawing of a Highland coo. Kathy was planning to be there as well, but then found that she has a training the same evening, so I may not know anyone, but I'll be busy drawing. Cooler last night and a bit so today. Food: 7:55 am Bear claw, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 5 Jun

Kind of grey and feeling heavy in the air today. Felt the need for the knee sleeve this morning. Need to keep pushing on vacation prep as it's approaching quickly. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 4 Jun

Warm and sunny continues, though the temps may drop to a little more tolerable level this week. Need to start serious planning for the trip. Started a packing list yesterday and ordered new luggage with wheels so we don't have to tote everything on our backs. Means that I'll have to completely unpack my regular suitcase to make sure anything vital to take along is transferred when the new luggage arrives. Food: 7:45 am Mixed berry Antwerp square, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 3 Jun

If it was still a thing, we'd be doing Walk Wisconsin today (and complaining about the heat!) Instead we walked to the Farmer's Market for pastries and one of Henry's wife's rhubarb coffee cakes. Considering going to Gayle Phillip's husband's funeral at 11. Farmshed has their Food Fair down by the river this evening. Food: 8:40 am Cherry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 2 Jun

Our 39th wedding anniversary. Would have been my parents' 78th, exactly twice as many. Had a really hard time settling in to sleep last night. I think I must have thought I'd already taken my ibuprofen but hadn't because I could not get comfortable in my knee and then my hip until halfway through the night when I took another dose. Fortunately I then was able to sleep. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 1 Jun

More hot, sunny weather. Summer, once again, has come instantly prepackaged. When it seemed that winter would flirt with spring forever, sending us back to our warmest clothes and the fireplace, all of a sudden there is abundant sunshine and temps so hot we're flagging. Welcome to Wisconsin. Bootstrap and HSP committee meeting this afternoon/evening. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate concha, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 31 May

In the middle of a true hot spell, but thankfully not humid. Chuck's funeral was very moving, well-attended, and EVERYONE sang! We filled the church with music, and the musicians were superb. The soloist who did an Ave Maria in Spanish as a prelude and the most beautiful rendition of Pie Jesu I've ever heard after communion was amazing. Apparently she had been one of Chuck's students who went on to sing professionally. Food: 7:50 am Kouign amann, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 30 May

Chuck Reichl's funeral is this morning, should be a reunion of former Newmanites and a very sad occasion. Still have to find the words to write on Deb's card. Food: 7:45 am Snail pastry, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 29 May

Memorial Day culminating a lovely weather weekend. Hiked all the way to the top of the tower at Rib yesterday for the first time in a long time. Was pretty exhausted by bedtime. Need to try to do that again a few times to get in shape for the Alps and daily hikes. Food: 7:55 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 28 May

Our perfect Memorial Day weekend weather continues! Another amazing sunny day. Bob is going to help Michael build a fence around his front garden today, so I may be on my own for at least a portion of the day. I cantored at 5 pm yesterday, so no need to go to church this morning. Enjoying one of David's pastries after a long hiatus. Food: 7:55 am Maple drizzled cheese danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 27 May

Don't know why, but May seems like it is lasting forever this year. Not a bad thing as it's not a bad month and we had a whole week of vacation in Door Co in the middle, but I can't believe it when I look at the calendar and it's still May. Weird.

Fri 26 May

Sunny day, kickoff to the Memorial Day weekend. OBT board meeting took forever yesterday evening. Pastor Leah agreed to step up for a year to co-head the officers with Pastor Tim as none of the lay members was willing to step into that role. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 25 May

Sunshine returns today, though still a bit cool. Bootstrap and a board meeting this afternoon/evening. Did the boneless turkey breast in the air fryer last night and it turned out well. Should make for some good turkey sandwiches or other things for a while yet. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 24 May

New furniture coming today! A brand new couch and recliner for our living room. I suspect the current ones have been there at least 20 years, so it's time for a change. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry turnover, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 23 May

Warm days ahead, such a change so seemingly sudden. But I guess it does this most years, you just forget. It took me aback when we were driving home from Door Co and Bob commented that we have the whole summer immediately ahead of us. I had just not gotten my head to that point yet, and it actually surprised me. Food: 7:50 am Maple pecan twisted pastry, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 22 May

The anniversary of my brother's death in 1966. Miss you, Mark. Feels like summer is upon us with fairly warm temperatures and the return of mosquitos in force yesterday on the Ice Age Trail in Aniwa. Still lots of spring wildflowers to be seen. Started my first load of post-vacation laundry already; feeling virtuous. Food: 7:55 am Frosted cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 21 May

A very lovely, successful week in Door Co. Weather was mild, mostly sunny, and beautiful and we were able to hike as much as we could handle. We did most of Peninusula's trails, including the Eagle Bluff trail; the Ridges; both the Europe Bay and the Rowley's Bay trails at Newport; Ellison Bay Bluff trail; Door Co Headlands trail; Cave Point and Whitefish Dunes; and Kangaroo Lake Land Trust. Maybe others I can't call to mind. We tried a few new eating places, all of which were satisfactory. We ate several times at the Chef's Hat in Ephraim; tried the Shoreline in Gills Rock; and Carroll House in Sister Bay. We indulged in pie from Seaquist Orchards, fish from Island Fever, and other goodies. Food: 8:15 am Caramel pecan roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 14 May

It's Mother's Day. Laura texted me Happy Mother's Day bright and early. Polish paczki from the Cultural Fest for breakfast. We made it to church yesterday so we can leave for our week in Door Co at our leisure. Reservations at 5:15 at Lure for dinner with my entree free. And a week of hiking and relaxation to look forward to. Food: 7:55 am Prune paczka, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 13 May

Skies are grey, but I'm hopeful that maybe it won't rain this afternoon so we could hike after the Cultural Fest. We shall see. Also hopeful that my brief "illness" or whatever it was won't hamper my energy and appetite to enjoy the Cultural Fest. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry scone, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 12 May

Nice warm morning. Fitbit seems to be restarting itself, not sure why, but restarts are often a good thing. Feeling pretty much back to normal today. Yesterday was fine but I was a little nervous because I'm not sure what caused the off day on Wednesday. Today seems fine. Hopefully all will be well for the week in Door Co. Food: 8:00 am Raspberry scone, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 11 May

Yesterday was kind of a null day. I didn't feel well in the night, stayed in bed a bit longer than usual, skipped my shower altogether, and pretty much laid on the couch most of the day. I drove over to OBT to deliver the clean towels, sat up for awhile and did some Animal Crossing, took another nap, then drove to the hair cutter's to get my color & cut. My intake for the day was one piece of ginger to settle my stomach, my large green cup of plain water, and a piece of string cheese in the evening. I wasn't at all hungry during the day and don't feel today like I went without. Weird. Food: 7:50 am Blueberry scone, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 10 May

Something I ate last night at the Great Dane didn't agree with me. I had a salmon club, green beans, and a small white sangria. Everything tasted fine and I was fine when I went to bed, but I started waking up frequently about 10:45 feeling slightly nauseous and uncomfortable. I didn't need to actually throw up, but I didn't feel well. The Fitbit chart shows that I finally got some deep sleep between about 2:30-6:00 am, but I'm feeling wiped out and didn't have energy for a shower this morning. I won't be going to Body Pump. Hopefully I'll feel better in a couple of hours, if not sooner, but I don't think breakfast is on the agenda this morning unless maybe some blackberries later. I'll see how coffee sits in my stomach.

Tues 9 May

Today would have been Catherine's birthday. Happy Birthday, MIL. Yesterday was grey and drizzly/rainy all day. Hopefully that is done for now. Foggy this morning. Dentist at noon today. Food: 8:00 am Raspberry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 8 May

Choir concert went well yesterday at Trinity. I had an easier time with page-turning, having heard the music once before. We had a nice little get-togther at Barb's senior home in the party room, and Bob and I had a nice walk along the river on the River Pines segment of the Green Circle afterward so we didn't miss out completely on the nice weather. It's so strange to bounce back into warm weather after a long bout of chilliness. Food: 8:00 am Frosted cinnamon roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 7 May

Supposed to get up to 77° today, and be in the 70s much of the week. Will seem strange after so much chilly weather. We have our final madrigal concert this afternoon, then we are opting out of the "choir" at least for the summer months so we can devote more time to hiking. Need to start seriously getting ourselves in shape for the Alpen hiking trip. Food: 8:00 am Frosted cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 6 May

It's not raining now early, so we should be able to walk downtown to the Farmer's Market and hope that David has some pastries available for us. If not, at least we can get some steps outside before the rains and storms that are predicted in the afternoon. Kind of drizzly on the walk to the Market, and no David, but got about 5600 steps in that may be harder to come by later today. And some homemade rhubarb muffins from Henry's wife. Food: 8:50 am Raspberry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 5 May

Feliz Cinco de Mayo! Temps are warmer again at 45° but unfortunately it's raining. Bob was hoping to do a job that required nice weather so he is at loose ends. I have Body Pump and laundry, so it isn't a problem for me. Food: 7:55 am Cherry turnover, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 4 May

A bit grey this morning, but already 47°. Did our first attempt on Rib for the season yesterday. I tired at about halfway, as I had Body Pump in the morning after a week off. I could feel my leg muscles at night, prompting two doses of ibuprofen through the night. Gotta work that strength up in the next month and a half to be ready for the Alps. Food: 7:50 am Almond danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 3 May

Sunshine and the promise of warmer temps today, though it's only 37° now. We sing at Barb Towey's assisted living home this afternoon. Food: 7:50 am Almond danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 2 May

Some sunshine out there this morning, and temps at 42° to start my day. I hope it wasn't quite so cold for those who had to sleep outdoors last night. The wind was pretty wicked yesterday, looks like it still is. Food: 7:55 am Costco apple danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 1 May

Happy May Day! I'm happy that we don't have 8" or more of fresh snow like Ironwood was expecting. Skies are grey and cloudy, the wind is high, and the temp is only 38°, but as we well know, it could be worse. We had a very nice getaway to Door County for the weekend in spite of rain much of the time. We still had clear skies on Friday afternoon so we walked at the Ridges where I finally paid for an annual membership. There was a very nice long lakeshore path at the resort we stayed at, so we walked on Saturday morning for a bit before the rain set in for the day. And the rains stopped long enough on Sunday for us to have a hike in Penisula before heading home after lunch. We were able to get our step goals in every day. We enjoyed Swedish pancakes at Al's. It was nice to have a Grab N Go breakfast available at the Country House Resort so we could take our time in our room before heading out. We chose to do church at the former St Rosalia's in Sister Bay at 10 am on Sunday since we didn't have to plan around restaurant breakfast times. Food: 8:00 am Grocery store cherry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 28 Apr

Heading up for a weekend in Door Co today. Cloudy out, but the temps are predicted into the 60s and no precip til tomorrow. Hope to get some hiking in later today. Was too tired to pack yesterday, so left it for after breakfast. Shouldn't take too long. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 1/2 c 2% milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 27 Apr

Had a lovely get-together with Sue Dimka at the Library coffee lounge yesterday. She had done some ancestral research prior to one of her travels to the Netherlands as Glen's ancestors were Dutch. She discovered that Glen's great-grandfather was the brother of my maternal grandfather's grandfather. I am a fourth cousin to her kids! Food: 7:55 am Slice banana bread, 1/2 c cottage cheese w/cinnamon, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 26 Apr

Sunshine again in the morning, most welcome. Baked banana bread yesterday, so that's my breakfast today with cottage cheese for a little protein. Coffee this afternoon with Sue Dimka. Don't even know how very many years it's been since we got together. Food: 7:55 am Slice banana bread, 1/2 c cottage cheese w/cinnamon, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 25 Apr

More sunshine this morning, temps again just above freezing. Feels so nice to see the sunshine. I get a massage this afternoon. It's been four weeks, but it feels like I just had one. Food: 7:55 am 2/3 c plain Greek yogurt, 2/3 c homemade muesli, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 24 Apr

The sun is shining a little bit this morning. One concert down, the most stressful part which was turning pages for Bill's organ music which I had never seen or heard before. The last piece was particularly fast and hard to follow, but there were no train wrecks. Food: 7:55 am 2/3 c plain Greek yogurt, 3/4 c homemade muesli, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 23 Apr

Grey skies and just above freezing temps. Yuck! We have our madrigal mini-concert this afternoon, so we wouldn't be able to go anywhere to hike anyway. This was originally the weekend I wanted to go down to the Amana Colonies before I remembered the concert commitment. Haven't checked the weather there, but it certainly hasn't been very pleasant here. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c Trader Joe's maple pecan cereal, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 22 Apr

Laura is 38 today! We've been parents for 38 years. The weather is cold and grey with snow flurries. Oh, my! Food: 8:00 am TJs instant cocoa oatmeal w dried blueberries, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 21 Apr

Sunshine is welcome today, and temp is already at 38°. Not exactly balmy, but better than snow/sleet and freezing. Pump this morning, then not at all next week since Nichole is gone and the subs will be doing Hard Core Strength. Not willing to risk my knee in unfamiliar routines. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 20 Apr

Another grey, cloudy, probably rainy day today. Had a really nice time at the drawing class at the winery last night with Kathy, Maggie, and three of Kathy's friends who work at the Sheriff's Dept. I like the drawing I produced, so it was a successful evening. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 19 Apr

Cloudy with rain predicted over the next couple of days. Had a really nice dinner with Heather last night. Ended up at Violet Basil as the Rock N Roll on the corner was not open. The Violet Basil just started adding Tuesday to their open nights, so we were the only customers eating in. The waiter was very attentive. They gave Heather a free slab of tiramisu, which we shared, for her birthday. Tonight I have the charcoal drawing class at the Sunset Winery with the Bootstrap buds. Social week. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 18 Apr

Sun is shining beautifully this morning with temps at 32°. Supposed to get a little warmer today than yesterday - not saying much. Having dinner with Heather this evening to celebrate her birthday and catch up. Haven't seen much of each other lately, except across the tables answering Trivia phones. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 17 Apr

Snow happened, but not as badly as threatened. Looks like less than an inch, though light snow is still falling, and it really barely sticks to the sidewalks and streets. It's chilly this morning, only 28°, but hopefully will warm up later. Food:
8:00 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 16 Apr

Cantored at church during the "marathon day" yesterday: up at 4:30, walk to Trivia at 5:30, answer phones 6-10 am, walk home quickly and directly to the car to drive to Madison, lunch with Laura at The Hollander, quick drive to Costco for gas and run in without a cart to get berries, mangos, cinnamon rolls. Drive home as fast as reasonable to go directly to church so I could be there to run through music with Sharon Maes, cantor, pick up Rockys and come home to flop (and finish Duo and AC). Exhausting just to think about it. Today should be much calmer, with the only obligation to rehearse our choir music at St Steve's at 2 pm. Food: 7:45 am Costco cinnamon roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 14 Apr

Kinda cute that my phone reminded me this morning that I need to set an early alarm for tomorrow because of answering Trivia phones at 6 am. I had already realized it, but it's cute that Siri reminded me anyway. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 13 Apr

Another warm sunny day to delight in. Yesterday almost got a little too warm as we're still not adjusted to the warmer weather and the temp teased near 90°. Not complaining though. Food: 8:05 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 12 Apr

This little spate of warm, sunny weather is absolutely delightful. Short sleeves today for Body Pump! Temp is already 61°. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 11 Apr

Starting on muesli for breakfast this morning. In fact, I need to make another batch today. Joan Kongslein's funeral is at 11 this morning with visitation before. I forgot to get to the store for a sympathy card, so I'll write our condolences on a blank photo card. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c homemade muesli, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 10 Apr

Fortunately Rick Foss will sub for the first majority of my OBT shift today or I would have been on my own. Eric is in Mpls with grandchildren and Dave has his grief support group today. It was quiet the last two weeks, but when you're alone, it's not unusual that you get hit with a crowd. At least I'll be prepared. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon loaf, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 9 Apr

Happy Easter! Got to bed at midnight after the Vigil, but slept an extra hour this morning and feel very well-rested. Knee is feeling fine today and all's right with the world. Looking forward to cooking with Michael and celebrating with Taylor and him this evening. Decided that I missed cheesy potatoes and bean casserole, so we had a little mini-Easter dinner ourselves last night with a little sliced ham as well. I plan to take some over to Leone and Mick this afternoon as we have a lot of leftovers and they will appreciate them. Food: 8:55 am Costco cinnamon loaf, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 8 Apr

It's the 42nd anniversary of our first date. Had a VERY nasty knee twinge in the night that didn't resolve quickly. Left me with beads of sweat on my face and ringing ears for several minutes. Not fun. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon loaf, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 7 Apr

Learned that I'll need to wear my knee sleeve for Easter Vigil as all the standing after a very busy Bootstrap had my knee screaming by the end of the Holy Thursday service. Slept what felt like restlessly though Fitbit said there wasn't much waking, just mostly mid-level sleep. I decided not to go to Body Pump this morning so as not to push the knee even though it feels pretty decent this morning. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon loaf, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 6 Apr

Sun is shining and temp is 27°, due to hit low 40s, I believe. Next week is supposed to be beautiful, so I'll just have to wait. First night on the new mattress was very nice. It conforms to the body so it doesn't put pressure on the joints, no matter which way you lay. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 5 Apr

Foggy day, no Pump due to Nichole not being available nor any Pump sub. Mattress is being delivered this afternoon! I will try to get the table set with a fresh cloth, sheets rewashed and possibly towels. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 4 Apr

A bit cooler this morning, and I don't think it's predicted to get as warm today as yesterday. Get to use my new food chopper to make a big batch of muesli this morning. Need to exercise, probably Pilates, as well. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 3 Apr

Sunshine today and temps to the 50s, already at 37°. Hopefully will be nice walking to OBT this afternoon. This morning I get an eye exam, but I'll have to drive there as it's at the Eye Clinic on 66. Food: 8:00 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 2 Apr

Distressed that my scale is going up instead of down. Need to get serious before it's out of control. Had a lovely drive down to Madison yesterday. Snow stopped before we left and we came home with sunshine. Food: 7:50 am Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 31 Mar

Grey and sloppy-looking outside, temps at 33°, questionable if there will be more precip and of what ilk. At this point, planning to go to the gym for Pump. Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 30 Mar

Chilly but sunny morning, precip due later this afternoon, so they say. Going without the knee sleeve unless it feels worse later, but I don't like to get dependent on it. I will order another one for the other knee before we go on the big hiking trip, though. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate croissant, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 29 Mar

An odd colder, windier day today, so I'm skipping the gym and will do the Pilates mat I didn't do yesterday instead. My knee isn't happy with the anomalous weather so it's probably better to skip Pump anyway. Might go back to Madison again on Saturday to pick up things for an "Easter basket" for M/T with asparagus, mini-cucumbers, etc. Emailed Laura to see if there's any chance of meeting for lunch. If so, I'll put together a small Easter basket for her as well. Food: 8:10 am Kouign amann, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 28 Mar

Sunshine and mid-20s this morning, due to hit the 40s later. Massage this afternoon should be nice. Need to buy retirement card for Sue as my last appointment with her is tomorrow afternoon. Had to cancel out of Amana weekend because it conflicted with one of our mini-choir concerts, but found a new resort in Door Co in Sister Bay and booked in the weekend of April 30 when we don't have a concert. Food: 8:05 am Bear claw, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 26 Mar

Blue skies this morning! Temps a tad chilly but it's a fair exchange for the sun. Maybe if it's not too windy or whatever, we could walk at Schmeeckle after choir this afternoon. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 25 Mar

Not too bad a day for a walk to the market; some light breeze but dampness in the air. Drew said David is taking off for the next four weeks so I don't know how often we'll go to the market in his absence. We'll make do for breakfasts with Costco cinnamon loaf and Mama Elda's pastries. Food: 9:05 am Pear/raspberry delice, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 24 Mar

Yay for sunny skies today! I'm more than ready for spring, if and when it finally gets here. Ready to get outdoors hiking again. Nothing on the agenda this weekend, but they predict snow tomorrow morning which will probably preclude getting out tomorrow. Food: 7:55 am Cinnamon roll, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 23 Mar

I see a little hint of blue in the cloudy skies out there. Would be nice if the ground would clear enough to make a little hike possible this weekend as there's nothing else on the schedule. Knee feels better today! Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 22 Mar

About another inch of snow down last night so things look white again. Getting ready to be done with this stuff. Knee still acting up; second day with the sleeve. Food: 8:00 am Kouign amann, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 21 Mar

Cloudy day, 25°. Lunch plans with the Bootstrap gals, otherwise no commitments for the remainder of the week beyond the normal. Temps are predicted to be in the 40s, but some precip possible. Food: 8:00 am Bear claw, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 20 Mar

So grateful to be feeling better again today after feeling "off" most of the day yesterday. I guess that happens occasionally and you just have to deal with it. Eric should be back at OBT today; it will be really nice to work with him again. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish (massive), 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 19 Mar

Very nice trip to Madison yesterday. Even got new lamps for the living room. Unfortunately, didn't have time to poop in the morning and I'm feeling it very much now. Hoping breakfast and coffee does the trick. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry danish, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 18 Mar

Chilly walk to the Farmer's Market this morning, requiring neck gaiters and long johns for Bob. Emma was working the table and said she and boyfriend have recently rented an apartment in Plover so we'll be seeing more of her. Hot cross buns again! Food: 9:00 am Raspberry/pear delice, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 17 Mar

Happy St. Patrick's Day! We had a lovely dinner last night at Chef's Kitchen for Bob's birthday. They were able to give us plenty of food to taste each course while still keeping the portions sufficiently small that we didn't blimp out. It helped to take plenty of time between each course so we could finish the paired wine and digest a bit. They also kept the wine pours at a reasonable level so we didn't feel too inebriated. Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 16 Mar

Bob's birthday today! We're going to Chef's Kitchen tonight for an Italian wine dinner with lots of food and wine. The spaghetti dinner last night at Holy Spirit was very nice as well. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate croissant, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 15 Mar

Don't have to cook now for a couple of days as we have the spaghetti dinner tonight and the Italian wine dinner tomorrow. I have to double-check whether I was registered into the watercolor class this afternoon as I don't believe the woman I emailed ever responded. Food: 7:50 am Kouign amann, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 14 Mar

A chilly morning today with temps at just 7°. Looking forward to my Tuesday at home. Church dinner tomorrow at 5 prepared by the students and Bob's birthday wine dinner on Thursday at 6. Fun week ahead. Also I have watercolor class at the library tomorrow afternoon. Food: 7:55 am Bear claw, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 13 Mar

This time I have to give the weather forecasters credit; they seem to have gotten this snowstorm right. It came in two waves of 3+ inches each, so there's a lot of snow down out there. All was down and there isn't a lot of wind, so things are plowed and no school closure today. OBT as usual this afternoon, albeit with Judy Cumley as my cohort so I can expect to be told what to do. Food:
8:00 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 12 Mar

Got about 3 inches more snow in the night, with more predicted for this afternoon. March has been pretty steadily snowy. Cantored at church last night, so a relaxing day at home today except for choir at 2 pm. Food: 8:25 am Blueberry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 11 Mar

A little brisk but fairly pleasant walk to the Market. On the walk back, we were discussing what a pleasant, mostly middle-class town Stevens Point is, when we caught up to a woman I've met at OBT who was just discharged from the hospital and walking to the library. She was so cold and bemoaned how far she still had to walk. Would have gladly given her a ride but we were also walking. A timely reminder that not everyone in town is comfortable. Food: 9:20 am Pear raspberry delice, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 10 Mar

More snow last night, though only about a couple of inches, but it's continuing. Shouldn't be enough to hamper going to Body Pump this morning. Bob said it looks to be continuing on and off all weekend, but we've no plans so also not a problem. Food: 7:50 am Honey bear, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 9 Mar

Cloudy skies, snow predicted for tonight. Again. Shouldn't interfere with Bootstrap this afternoon. Michael is still recovering from Covid and Taylor is a couple of days behind him. They're going to drive up to Ironwood today and wait out the snow up there. Food: 7:55 am Kouign amann, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 8 Mar

Reservations tonight at Chef's Kitchen for Asian Fusion night at 6 pm. Should be fun even if we can't have cocktails with it. Sun is out again this morning and temps are already at 30°. Body Pump this morning; hope Nichole's back. Food: 7:55 am Maple-drizzled cheese danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 7 Mar

The sun is shining! How refreshing to look out the window to sunshine. We are really looking forward to spring, but there are a few more snowstorms still in the queue if the weather forecasters are at all correct. This is the season when it's not particularly nice to walk outside even if the sun shines and it's mild, because there are so many puddles and hidden patches of ice. Food: 8:00 am Bear claw, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 6 Mar

About an inch of fresh, wet snow down in the night. Fortunately, not enough to disrupt activity. Temps hovering around freezing now. Food: 7:55 am Apricot danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 5 Mar

Had a fun spontaneous dinner at El Mezcal last night, even without margaritas. Nice way to end a quiet Saturday with not much else going on. This afternoon we sing again at St Paul's. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry almond danish, 103 g blacbkerries, coffee

Sat 4 Mar

Disturbing pain across my jaw and pressure in my chest just before getting up this morning. It passed with relaxation, but I don't like it. No more discomfort, and a nice walk to the Farmer's Market with mild temps, no wind, and only a bit of ice. Food: 9:05 am Raspberry pear delice, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 3 Mar

No gym today; they sent an email that they are subbing in a Hardcore Strength class today and that is the class where I first became aware of throwing out my knee, so no thank you. I'll get my laundry well underway before meeting the Bootstrap girls for coffee at the Library Cafe at SentryWorld Inn. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 2 Mar

At least I should be able to go to Bootstrap this afternoon after missing last week and also Monday's OBT due to crazy weather. Feels really strange to be at home and not having gone to these two regular volunteer spots. Food: 7:55 am Bear claw, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 1 Mar

Fitbit alarm didn't go off this morning. I still woke up at the usual time, but Bob was a little late from his usual time. Temperatures are still mild, though I believe there may be some snow today. Sky looks a little ominous. Food: 7:55 am Kouign amann, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 28 Feb

Sun is shining and temps are at 28°. Roads sound crunchy when cars drive past. It was really weird not to go to OBT yesterday afternoon, but they said that when schools close, we also don't open, so I respected that. Would have been unsafe to try to walk there, and driving might not have been much better. Bob didn't take his van out all day because he was afraid he wouldn't be able to back it in again up the icy sloping driveway. Let's hope that stuff is done for the year. Food: 7:55 am Apricot danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 27 Feb

More wintry weather today! School has been canceled due to icy rain and thick deposits of ice on the roads. Ergo, no OBT this afternoon, first cancellation on Monday due to weather. Food: 8:00 am Maple-glazed cheese danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 26 Feb

Nice day trip to Madison yesterday for Costco/TJs/Woodmans. Was able to get my Renard's string cheese this time! Got most everything else on our list as well. Nice dinner at Lombardino's - tagliatelle w/truffled mushrooms. I was really hungry and ate the entire portion with ease, and we split a chocolate cherry semifreddo for dessert! Still getting used to passing on wine and cocktails when we go out. There was ample sunshine to enjoy on the drive and fairly mild temperatures. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 99 g blackberries, coffee