Tues 31 Dec

Nochevieja! Already! Church at 5 pm, then possibly out to eat somewhere as yet undecided. Otherwise a clear agenda today. Food: 8:00 am 101 g raspberry morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 30 Dec

The year wanes quickly now. OBT today but nothing else this week besides Bootstrap and Mass on Tues evening for the New Year solemnity. Quiet weeks are nice sometimes. Food: 8:00 am 92 g Kathy's cinnamon coffee cake, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 29 Dec

Very nice brunch with John and Kathy yesterday at their house, and she sent home some of her good coffee cake to enjoy this morning. Drove down to Madison for a long day, shopping at Costco, running over to Lombardino's so we could snag the last 2-person table for dinner without a wait, delicious food (as always!), then Trader Joe's and Woodman's before driving home. Got most of my Duo done driving home, so called it "good enough" and went to bed after putting away the necessary things. Food: 8:05 am 100 g Kathy's cinnamon coffee cake, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 28 Dec

Brunch with the Hartmans this morning! Grandchildren at their house have required moving the date from Christmas Eve to the following weekend when their household has settled down, but still the tradition goes on! After brunch, we're heading down to Madison for a day on our own since Laura is in Texas and Axel is in Jakarta. We'll get our erranding done and then hopefully top off with dinner at Lombardinos. Food: 8:05 am 84 g Costco cinnamon loaf, 110 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 27 Dec

Fridays certainly come around quickly when you're no longer working. Now they mean laundry is due rather than signaling the end of the week of obligation. Will go to Body Pump this morning even though it's Lisa as the instructor because there was no class on Wednesday due to Christmas and next Wednesday will be New Year's, so likely also no class. After eating all that Buche de Noel, I can't be skipping whole weeks of class. Food: 7:55 am 80 g Costco cinnamon loaf, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 26 Dec

Christmas Day was quiet and somewhat anticlimactic. Sandy was my accompanist for cantoring at morning Mass. Listened to WPR part of the morning after church. A few minutes after putting the duck into the rotisserie oven, Michael contacted Bob and said he had made too much vegan Wellington, and would we like some, so I rescued the bird which was barely getting warm and put it back into the bag for the fridge and we enjoyed amazing mushroom nut Wellington with his special roasted potatoes and Buche de Noel for a no-work Christmas dinner. Food: 8:00 am 86 g Costco cinnamon loaf, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 25 Dec

Merry Christmas! Had a wonderful Christmas Eve with Michael and Taylor, drinking champagne and opening gifts. A real family Christmas. Will do it with Laura when she returns from Texas, and hopefully we can all share a meal together then. Food: 7:30 am 58 g almond kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 24 Dec

Feliz Nochebuena! Just need to get the presents wrapped, and pretty much all the holiday prep for now will be done. Michael told Bob they'd like to get together. Taylor just texted that 4:30 tonight when she finishes work will be good. Food: 7:50 am 65 g almond kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 23 Dec

Christmas is coming - fast! David is scheduled to bring our Buche de Noel at 10. Still don't know if I'm paying him, but I'll have a good bottle of wine ready as a gift if he doesn't want pay. and maybe even if he does as a retirement gift. Got the cookies baked last night. Can tell I'm getting older as it took a lot out of me to stand that long. Fell back asleep after my alarm this morning, probably because I was so exhausted when I went to bed. Food: 8:20 am 92 g almond kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 22 Dec

Realized that I didn't buy oysters at Costco this year, so there won't be any oyster stew for Christmas Eve this year. I know of nowhere in town where I would trust to buy oysters. Didn't get the cookie dough made yesterday, so must do so after breakfast so it has time to chill. Food: 7:55 am 87 g almond kringle, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 21 Dec

Cold morning today, only 2°. I cantor this evening, but otherwise nothing on the schedule except perhaps wrapping Christmas gifts and baking cookies! Since it's not so very busy, those things sound like fun instead of the inevitable tasks they have seemed some years. Woke up to the smell of fresh eggnog coffee being prepared - delightful! Food: 7:55 am 81 g Costco cinnamon loaf, 101 g blacbkerries, coffee

Fri 20 Dec

Didn't get as much snow as predicted yesterday, more like 3 inches or so. Enough to make things pretty before Christmas, not enough to be overly troublesome. Coffee with my Bootstrap buds this morning, so an excuse to beg off from Body Pump. Food: 8:00 am 73 g almond kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 19 Dec

Snow hasn't started yet, but they say there are about 6 inches rapidly approaching. Looks like they called school in advance based on the absence of activity across the street. Wise decision if they'd have to start busing the kids back home not long after they arrived. Will have to see if Bootstrap happens if the snow is falling heavily. Food: 7:55 am 113 g almond kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 18 Dec

One week til Christmas Day. I will cantor at 9 am Mass on Christmas and we'll figure out something for a special Christmas dinner. Perhaps we'll bake cookies this weekend. Food: 8:00 am 45 g pumpkin spice kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 17 Dec

Mick stopped by this morning with a little fruitcake and $40 from he and Leone for Christmas. Told him we'll try to stop by on Sunday afternoon when Laura is here with their gifts. Michael texted that he had forgotten about obligations in Ironwood this weekend and can't return home til Monday so they won't be able to be a part of the celebration. I'm pretty sure Laura can't reschedule as she's leaving with her friends for Texas on the 24th for most of the remainder of her break, so we'll have to celebrate separately with the kids. Food: 8:20 am 92 g almond kringle, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 16 Dec

Drove in thick fog to Waupaca yesterday evening for a fun pizza dinner with a prime rib sandwich as takeout for sometime this week. No Dave again at OBT today as his mom is being released from the hospital, either home or rehab, he wasn't sure which. Got the menu in place for next Sunday and the stockings stuffed, now I just need to organize and wrap the gifts. Food: 8:00 am 107 g blueberry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 15 Dec

Can't believe it's only one week til the kids are here to celebrate Christmas together. Need to take stock of presents and stocking stuffers and get prepared! Food: 8:05 am 84 g almond kringle, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 14 Dec

The warmer temperatures have arrived as predicted for at least a bit. It's 22° this morning instead of below zero, so we should be able to walk to the Farmer's Market in relative comfort this morning. My new slippers finally arrived last night and I love them. They were expensive, but I think they will be worth it. Food: 8:00 am 107 g blueberry turnover, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 13 Dec

11 years ago today, my mama went to her heavenly reward. Hope she is happy there with Dad and Mark and her parents and sister, as I know she is. Love you, Mom! Food: 8:00 am 117 g cherry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 12 Dec

Coldest night of the year so far, -7° on our weather station this morning. Thought of the people who were lucky enough to find beds at the warming shelter, being turned out into the day before I even crawl out of my lovely warm bed. Be with them, Lord, and keep them safe. Food: 8:00 am Cherry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 11 Dec

The cold weather comes in this afternoon for a few days. Glad we got the hot water/beverages setup in place at OBT before it hits. Food: 8:00 am 140 g almond bear claw, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 10 Dec

Already 10 days into December, the year will end before we know it. Massage today and Social Justice meeting tonight. Need to prepare a blurb for the parish time-and-talent questionnaire for One Big Tent. Food: 8:10 am 137 g almond bear claw, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 9 Dec

Had a good weekend in Door County, found lots of goodies especially at the Christmas market and the pop-up market in Ephraim. I scored a wool Pendleton shirt, a small men's but it fits fine. Food: 8:05 am Large elephant ear roll, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 6 Dec

St Nicholas Day! Heading to Door Co for the Christkindlmarkt tomorrow. Sadly learned that Fika is closed for the season so no humongous cinnamon rolls for us this weekend. Food: 8:05 am Blueberry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 5 Dec

Chilly sunny morning. Board meeting this evening. Thankfully Pia reminded me to pick her up as I'm sure I'd have forgotten. Tomorrow Door County! Food: 8:10 am 137 g morning bun, 117 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 4 Dec

Sanctuary went well again, I feel. It is a good program. Just Body Pump today. The turkey soup turned out well again and we have a ton for future meals. Food: 8:05 am 73 g julekage, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 3 Dec

Temperatures still chilly but a little more moderate perhaps. Sanctuary tonight. Food: 8:00 am 83 g frosted julekage, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 2 Dec

Bob is out fixing the window on our storm door that has been falling off when the door shuts hard in the cold. I went out this morning to collect a package that had been delivered sometime yesterday, and when the door banged shut behind me, the glass window fell down (didn't break) behind me. Food: 8:00 am 137 g morning bun, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 1 Dec

First day of Advent, first day of December, approaching quickly the end of the year. Very nice day in Madison yesterday. Brunch with Laura at Sardine. Didn't need to feel guilty about excluding Axel as he was in Chicago with friends, and I was able to give my leftovers to Laura who happily accepted them. Was able to find everything on Michael and Taylor's shopping lists for TJs and Costco as well as things we wanted. Got all our steps and Rockys for supper when we got home, so a very nice day altogether. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate chunk danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 30 Nov

End of November already. Heading down to Madison today to have brunch with Laura and take leftovers to Axel, though I haven't told him yet that we're coming. I feel a little badly about not including him in the brunch, but it's been awhile since we've seen Laura and I don't want to share our time with her. I suspect he'll feel bad to not be included, but I can't please everyone. Food: 8:00 am 82 g julekage, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 29 Nov

Black Friday is here! The holiday of commercialism, oh what shall we buy today? Thanksgiving is oriented to family and food, then the very next day, it's all about spending money. Oh, well. Food: 8:05 am 82 g cream cheese frosted cinnamon roll, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 28 Nov

Happy Thanksgiving! We are going to Michael and Taylor's for homemade babka and coffee at 10, then cooking a turkey breast and fixings for ourselves later today. Baked a cranberry pudding pie yesterday, and made sure the turkey was thawed. Will dry season it this morning before we go, and perhaps cut onions and celery for stuffing. Food: 8:00 am 34 g almond kringle, apple cider donut, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 27 Nov

Body Pump this morning, then start prep for Thanksgiving. Planning to brine the turkey breast and bake the pie today, then tomorrow I will cook the sweet potato in the crock pot (unless I decide to do it today and then slice and bake it tomorrow). Might cut up the veg for the stuffing today as well as it's nice to have it ready to pop into the pan to make stuffing. Food: 8:00 am 105 g cream cheese frosted cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 26 Nov

Looking forward to an uncommitted day today. Will do some planning for Thanksgiving. Michael and Taylor have "the cold" now, so wouldn't be surprised if they back out on Thanksgiving morning babka. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate marbled tiger twist, 97 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 25 Nov

Happy Birthday, Mark, you would have been 73 today. Very nice week in Ironwood hiking, no Covid. Found a new restaurant in Wakefield, the Korner Kitchen, where we had grilled cheese, bacon, and tomato sandwiches one day and an excellent fish fry on Friday. Good poke bowls from Suffolk St Eatery on Thursday and a couple of Super One deli meals, and a frozen lasagna from the Italian market in Mpls. Home now for this week with plans to do a more traditional Thanksgiving dinner for two on Thursday here. Food: 8:05 am Prune danish, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 19 Nov

Dentist appointments at 11, then off to Ironwood for the remainder of the week/weekend. Packed my suitcase this morning, but still need to pack all the accoutrements for a week up north. Yesterday was just too busy with laundry, OBT, and a Sanctuary meeting to do more than think about things I need to pack today. Hopefully I'll remember it all. Would really like to finish the last part of the Gamache book so I can drop off books at the library before I leave town. I am taking 3 library books along that will come due either while I'm gone or immediately after and all are on hold and can't be renewed. Food: 8:25 am 60 g Costco streuesel coffee cake, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 18 Nov

Very nice weekend in Minneapolis, nice hotel on Thurs night and lovely time with Kurt and Barb Fri/Sun. Got some shopping done for stocking stuffers and was able to find the things Laura requested on Amazon and get them ordered. Weather was lovely the whole time, sunny and mid-50s. Saturday we did an informative walk to a toxic waste dump left behind by the Ford plant. Food: 8:05 am Pecan roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 14 Nov

Celebrated Leone's 104th birthday yesterday. She enjoyed her tuna salad sandwich and homemade applesauce and the TJs cinnamon roll blondie bar and seemed to like her Oreo packets and hot cocoa gifts. Heading off to the Twin Cities today after my dermatologist appointment to have a few days with Kurt and Barb after shopping today. Food: 7:15 am 62 g almond kringle, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 13 Nov

Leone reaches 104 today. I have a pan of cinnamon roll blondie bar mix in the oven, and I'm making tuna salad for sandwiches and homemade applesauce to take over for lunch today. Hopefully I can manage not to give them my still-hanging-on cold along with the food. Food: 8:10 am 92 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 12 Nov

Another chilly, sunny morning. Had a coughing bout in the night from drainage that wouldn't be controlled by turning to any position. Yuck! Have an HSP social justice meeting tonight. No rest for the wicked. Food: 8:00 am 105 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 11 Nov

Hardly any deep sleep last night, but still got some rest. Windy morning today. Will be ready for a massage tomorrow. Food: 7:55 am 115 g morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 10 Nov

Cantored last night with Kat, so today is a totally free day. May have occasional rain, making a hike iffy. Nothing wrong with hanging around home. Food: 8:25 am 116 g morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 9 Nov

Chilly, mostly sunny morning. No need to walk to Farmer's Market as we have plenty of bakery, veg, and eggs. Maybe a Bukolt loop when it warms up a bit. I cantor at 5 pm Mass tonight. Food: 7:55 am 116 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 8 Nov

Really fun dinner at Chef's Kitchen last night for English Pub night. I had a beef stew w/Central Waters stout and Bob had bangers and mash. We drank a Guinness and desserted with lemon lavender brulee (which tasted like a vanilla brulee as the other flavors were mostly undetectable). We also were able to collect the two bottles of wine we had bought and paid for at the wine dinner but weren't ready when I went to pick them up. Food: 7:55 am Morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 7 Nov

Pub dinner at Chef's Kitchen tonight! Should be fun. Maybe a meat pie or a Guinness roast or fish and chips. Looking forward to it. Food: 8:10 am 115 g morning bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 6 Nov

Well, once again America proves that more than half of its inhabitants have extremely poor judgment. Apparently the crazy oughta-be felon will be president for another four years. Hard to believe, but we can only hope and pray that the country survives again. Pleased that my lower tract discomfort seems to be alleviating, though I do have some of Bob's cold Food: 7:55 am 145 sourdough cinnamon roll, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 5 Nov

I had high hopes last night that this discomfort in my digestive tract was getting better, but I'm pretty uncomfortable this morning. Decided to skip the shower with all the required bending and movement. I'm getting my hair cut this afternoon, so she'll wash my hair and it's not warm enough to be sweaty. Hopefully it will get better soon. Election day today. By this time tomorrow we'll know the fate of the country. Nervous. Food: 7:40 am 150 g iced sourdough cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 4 Nov

Still having quite a bit of discomfort and difficulty bending and twisting due to the problem I had with my bowels at the end of last week. The chunk that blocked my intestine for a day or so did move on and out, but it seems to have caused an injury in the wall of the intestine that still hurts. I have had fairly normal BMs the last couple of days, so it doesn't seem to impair the function, but I can't really easily bend down to put on socks or the like. Food: 7:55 am 135 g cinnamon roll, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 3 Nov

Spent most of the day with Axel yesterday in Madison. Bradbury's was way too crowded so we drove to La Brioche for brunch. Went to TJs, Costco, and Woodman's with a stop-off at Penzeys since everything was half-price. Didn't make it home in time for the concert at HSP, so just did Duo and went to bed since I had to be up early for cantoring at 8 am. Fortunately with the end of DST, we "fell back" an hour so it isn't quite so early to get up. Food: 6:25 am Caramel pecan sourdough cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 2 Nov

Dia de los Muertos. New baker at the winter Farmer's Market. Delicious caramel pecan cinnamon roll but high calorie! Meeting Axel for lunch at Bradbury's coffee shop in Madison and bringing him along shopping if he wishes, which I understand he does. Laura is too busy to join us for lunch as she's giving an exam on Monday. Food: 9:05 am Large caramel pecan sourdough cinnamon roll, 100 g blackberries, coffee, 1/4 c frozen blueberries

Fri 1 Nov

All Saints Day - Mass this evening and possibly the Candlelight hike at Schmeeckle after if the weather is pleasant. Tomorrow we meet Axel in Madison for lunch at Bradbury's Coffee and then shopping. Concert at HSP in the evening with Mary Hofer, Sandy Weyers, and others. Food: 8:00 am 110 g pumpkin bread, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 31 Oct

Happy Halloween! Trick or Treating this evening. I'm wearing my Halloween t-shirt and spider earrings for Bootstrap this afternoon. Food: 8:10 am 98 g pumpkin bread, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 30 Oct

Still quite pleasantly warm today, though rain predicted later in fairly large quantity. Should end before Trick-or-Treating tomorrow. Should be able to make Body Pump both days this week, God willing. Food: 8:00 am 78 g cherry coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 29 Oct

Gotta sub at Bootstrap this morning, making up for the days I'll be missing in November. Also gotta cantor at 8 am Mass Sunday, first day of non-daylight savings time so it will seem REALLY early. Yuck! Food: 8:05 am 74 g cherry coffee cake, baked pumpkin donut, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 28 Oct

Michael and Taylor are coming over for dinner this evening, late for us to eat around 6:45-7:00 but it will be so nice to have their company. I'm going to assemble a veggie curry for the crockpot and Bob promises to turn it on at the proper time. I'll make the dessert this morning, and cook the basmati rice after I get home from OBT. Recipe says it needs to cook 3-4 hours on low, so I will ask him to turn it on between 3-3:30. Food: 8:05 am Baked pumpkin donut, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 27 Oct

Yesterday we walked to the Market, I walked to a Sanctuary pre-meeting at HSP, and I walked again to cantor at 5 pm Mass. Got lots of functional steps. Bob ushers this morning, so I might bake pumpkin bread while he's gone. Food: 7:55 am 73 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 26 Oct

Had a nice dinner at El Mezcal last night with Diego for our waiter. He even brought us the blue shots at the end! Today a noon meeting re: Sanctuary and cantor at 5 pm Mass. Bob ushers tomorrow, so we don't have all of Sunday free after all. Food: 7:55 am 70 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 25 Oct

A little milder today, weatherwise. Nothing extra on the schedule except laundry. Going to Body Pump this morning since Wed didn't work out with the Spirit Lunch. Food: 8:00 am 62 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 86 g raspberries, coffee

Thurs 24 Oct

This was the chilly morning I had been expecting, touch of frost on the garage roof. Temps will fluctuate in the 50s and 60s for the forseeable future. Bootstrap and OBT board meeting tonight. Food: 8:00 am 85 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 87 g raspberries, coffee

Wed 23 Oct

The beginning of the cooler streak is upon us, though it's only 48° this morning so not too chilly. I am signed up as kitchen help for the HSP Spirit lunch this morning, something I haven't done for a long time. Nice dinner with Heather last night, so fun to catch up with an old friend. Food: 8:00 am 85 g cinnamon roll, 100 g raspberries, coffee

Tues 22 Oct

Still lovely today, but getting cooler again already. High only predicted around 70° today, and much cooler tomorrow. Subbing at Bootstrap this morning for Maggie, and meeting Heather for dinner at Guu's tonight. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry turnover, 98 g raspberries, coffee

Mon 21 Oct

Nice day yesterday hiking at Timm's Hill. Lunch at Hill of Beans first. Color was starting to fade, but still pretty. Scheduled time in Ironwood for late November; hoping the snow will hold off. Food: 8:00 am 74 g cinnamon roll, 102 g raspberries, coffee

Sun 20 Oct

An unseasonably warm and lovely weekend - temps are already 51° and heading towards 80° for the next couple of days. These unexpected temperatures are always welcome to extend the feel of summer and soften the upcoming cold. Had a lovely day yesterday chatting with David at the Market - he was there with honey but no bakery. Linda Weitz and her son Evan sat with us at Empty Bowls and I had the opportunity to say hi and chat briefly with Tom Pease. I had an young male student accompanist that I don't believe I've worked with before for Mass and he was also very nice. Food: 8:00 am 106 g cinnamon roll, 103 g raspberries, coffee

Sat 19 Oct

Really nice wine dinner at Chef's Kitchen last night with an incredible menu and some very good wines. Even purchased a bottle of two of our favorites! Sadly discovered that last weekend was David's final weekend and he even made eclairs. Didn't check his Facebook page until it was too late, but I couldn't have changed our Door Co reservations anyway. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry turnover, 101 g raspberries, coffee

Fri 18 Oct

Can definitely feel the warming for the weekend. Going to an excellent wine dinner at Chef's Table tonight with a menu that could have been created just for me with my favorite foods. Only improvement would be a fresh oyster for an amuse bouche. Coffee with Maggie this morning; Kathy is still afflicted with her illness and doesn't want to risk contagion. Food: 8:00 am Raspberry turnover, 102 g raspberries, coffee

Thurs 17 Oct

A bit warmer today, heading into a slightly warmer weekend. Bootstrap today with Joe doing stocking for us. Food: 8:00 am Raspberry turnover, 103 g raspberries, coffee

Wed 18 Oct

Below freezing this morning. So nice to have the fireplace when the temps dip. Planning to return to Body Pump today; Nichol should be there as well. After doing a Pilates mat yesterday, I should be good and sore with Body Pump on top. Food: 8:05 am Blueberry cheese croissant, 30 g blackberries, 70 g raspberries, coffee

Tues 15 Oct

Chilly morning (again), but a day to remain indoors if I choose or to bundle up for a walk. I do need to return library books, so I guess I'll venture out at least once. Food: 8:00 am 83 g cinnamon roll, 101 g raspberries, coffee

Mon 14 Oct

Lovely weekend in Door Co. Hiked at Whitefish Dunes on Friday afternoon, Ellison Bluff and Mink River Estuary on Saturday and Peninsula on Sunday. Got plenty of lovely bakery from the Pig and cinnamon rolls from Fika as we were driving out through the Pumpkin Patch festival. Color was pretty much peak in many places, though still a lot of green in others. Food: 8:05 am 119 g Fika cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 11 Oct

Off to Door County for a fall appreciation weekend. Good likelihood of color as it has popped out here in the last week. No Farmers Market and David's pastries as we'll be out of town. Food: 8:05 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 10 Oct

Weather remains sunny, cool in the mornings and warmer in the afternoons. Can't complain. Feeling sorry for the folks in Florida who had to evacuate their homes for yet another severe hurricane. Food: 8:15 am Chocolate pecan snail, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 8 Oct

Quite chilly again this morning, gives the feel that winter is coming. Axel texted back that he'd like to get together when we next come to Madison and that he's finding the cold a challenge already. He won't like it when it really gets cold, but his parents prepared him and sent warm clothes. Food: 8:05 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 7 Oct

Quite chilly this morning, only 38°. The feeling of fall. I have my physical this week, and wouldn't you know it, the scale is tipping up today. Hopefully that's an anomaly as I really want to show my weight loss when I go to the doctor. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 6 Oct

Another chilly, sunny fall morning. Such beautiful weather we have been having for the last couple of weeks. Looks like I have my physical on Wed. Food: 8:00 am Cherry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 5 Oct

Lovely sunny brisk fall morning to walk to the Market. Good to have a fresh infusion of yummy pastries. Michael borrowed the Prius to go up to Ironwood today, so we are car-less except for the van until later this afternoon. I need to watch more of the Serenity videos anyway. Food: 8:25 am Caramel apple antwerp square, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 4 Oct

Cool morning, plenty of sunshine. Unfortunately, Body Pump was canceled and replaced with the strength class I don't like, but another day of rest isn't altogether a bad thing. Still have laundry to do and hang outside. Open weekend ahead. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 3 Oct

Taking the Prius in to get some recall work done so there's no risk that a back door will pop open while we're driving. Then Bootstrap this afternoon, hoping my cold is sufficiently better that I have some energy to work. Guiltily skipped the climate change presentation at church last night and didn't make a dessert for the reception; blaming my cold and lack of energy. Food: 7:25 am Kouign amann, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 2 Oct

Subbing the early shift at OBT today, and it will be busy at it's the first day of the new quarter. I suspect we'll actually have some new gift cards that were donated to be used after Oct 1; we had nothing on Monday. A few folks who stopped in hopefully on Monday will likely be back this morning. Food: 6:55 am Chocolate pecan snail, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 1 Oct

October is here! Cooler temps today and slightly warmer the remainder of the week but still cooler than the last couple of weeks. Tomorrow I sub at OBT in the morning; it wasn't so busy yesterday, but tomorrow will be the first day of a new quarter and supposedly we might have some gift cards to give out. We were Mother Hubbard's cupboard yesterday. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 30 Sept

September has been a warm month, more a continuation of summer than the start of fall. It's supposed to be near 80° again today before cooling a tad for the rest of the week. Had a nice walk yesterday at Mead, saw sandhills, egrets, swans, snakes, a turtle, black coots... Sunny with a nice breeze most of the time made for nice fall walking conditions. Food: 8:05 am Elderberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 29 Sept

A couple more days of the warm, upper 70s temps and then a tad cooler for awhile. Planning a hike at Mead today to look for migrating sandhills. Nice visit with Laura yesterday. She was exhausted from her lifting session, but didn't yet appear excessively stressed from school. Got all our erranding done and then some, buying more than usual it seemed. Food: 7:55 am Cherry danish, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 28 Sept

Nice morning for a walk to the Farmer's Market. Emma was working. So many good things, we had to buy one extra. She had a big box for our pastries today so we had room in the backpacks for winter squash, beans, carrots, leeks, apple cider donuts, eggs, and bacon. Food: 8:30 am Caramel apple antwerp square, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri Sept 27

Feels like the cold is finally moving through, hopefully will be gone before too long. Covid test was clearly negative. I actually skipped out on both Bootstrap and the OBT board meeting yesterday to just take it easy. Only got about 7400 steps, but wasn't sorry about it; did get 9/9. Food: 8:00 am Apple cider donut, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 26 Sept

Still not feeling well. Did go to the Dinner and a Movie last night in Marshfield and enjoyed it, but I'll feel bad if I test positive for Covid. Bob said he would go out and get me a current test this morning; I don't want to put Bootstrap at risk if I have it. We had our own table on the outside edge last night, so no one else really would have gotten exposed, except maybe the lady who ran the program who stopped to chat with us. She didn't get too close though. Food: 8:00 am Apple Cider donut, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 25 Sept

Cold is worse, made it difficult to sleep well. Hope it isn't Covid, but I don't think any of our tests are up to date. Most recent one expired in January, 24. Skipped my shower this morning, but dressed and came downstairs at usual time. Had to take some ibuprofen as my head ached badly, but it worked well to alleviate it. Laid down on the couch and slept til almost 9 am, and am just doing breakfast now. That last little burst of sleep made me feel better in combo with the ibuprofen. Food: 9:00 am Apple cider donut, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 24 Sept

I seem to be coming down with a cold starting late yesterday. Hope it doesn't last long. Getting my hair cut today and will likely ask her to go just a tad shorter. My hair has been feeling very long this time, though I know it just grows faster on occasion. Food: 8:00 am Costco raspberry morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 23 Sept

Very nice trip to the North Shore. Great weather every day, albeit slightly warm especially considering it's mid-September. Abundant sunshine for hiking every day. Hiked at Grand Portage a couple of times, Devil's Track, Temperance River, Lookout Mountain, and Moose Mountain. Tried the new bakery on the main drag in Grand Marais and it is wonderful. Pastries, scones, and delicious ham/gruyere croissants that we twice took along for hiking lunches. Food: 8:05 am Apple cider donut, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 15 Sept

On to the North Shore for a week of relaxation, hiking, and fun. May the Lord watch over us and keep us safe, and also watch over all those we love. Should be a nice week with temps forecast to be in the low 70s and rain likely holding off til the end of the week. Food: 7:20 am Cherry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 14 Sept

Nice morning for a walk to the Farmer's Market. Emma gifted us a loaf of the honey bread she loves since we bought $64 worth of pastries. Also got some raspberries from Henry. Food: 8:15 am Elderberry danish, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 13 Sept

Feels warmer this morning even though the temp is 59°. Humidity is high, but it always is in the mornings of late so don't know why it feels so much warmer to me this morning. Maybe my body has decided to readjust to summer temps again since they seem to be lasting awhile. Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 12 Sept

Continuing the week of 80 degree temps but it hasn't really seemed overly warm most of the time. When you're walking in direct sun in the afternoon, perhaps. I think my body is prepped for fall and refusing to really experience summer-like weather at this point. Food: 8:00 am Kouign amann, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 11 Sept

Didn't have it in me to watch the debate last night; just couldn't watch Trump on his stage. Will have to rely on post-debate commentary to have an idea of how they did. Initial reports look positive, but haven't yet read anything in depth. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate pecan snail, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 10 Sept

A bit warmer today, ending in the 80s if they're accurate. Massage this afternoon, Social Justice meeting this evening. Dave got my laptop into the OBT system for me yesterday so I'm no longer reliant on the crappy computers we have there. Also there will be computers for both Charm and Nancy if Dave and I remember to bring our own. Food: 8:05 am Apricot danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 9 Sept

This week is predicted to be in the 80s again all week. They're having 70s at the North Shore, so we'll see what we get when we get there. Get to take my new laptop in to OBT this afternoon and try it out. Nancy and Charm should both be there. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 8 Sept

Still a cool morning, but predicted to get up to 77° today and in the 80s all next week again. Seems they were correct in predicting jack-in-the-box temps this fall, at least so far. Will be interesting to see what it's like at the North Shore the following week. Food: 8:05 am Cherry Danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 7 Sept

Lovely fall-like, brisk morning for a walk to the market. Temps in the low 40s, so jacket weather. May try for a hike on the Ice Age Waupaca River segment later before cantoring. Food: 8:10 am Antwerp square, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 6 Sept

Nice cool pre-fall day, suitable for flannel. No plans as they substituted Hard Core Strength for Body Pump so I won't be participating. Not sure why Nichol suddenly had to cancel this week. Frees me up to just do laundry today. Food: 8:05 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 5 Sept

Very nice birthday yesterday. Dinner on the patio at PJs with Bob, Michael baked me a chocolate cake and he and Taylor came over to share our champagne, and they brought me a book that Taylor and I will co-read and discuss along the way. That will be different for me but definitely worth a try. Weight is creeping back up so need to be more diligent on eating less, tracking better, and being more active. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate pecan snail, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 4 Sept

Happy Birthday to me! 69 years old. A new age is always a bit of a surprise. Michael and Taylor are coming over and bringing dessert tonight to share our good Costco champagne. Now just have to survive Body Pump again. Food: 8:00 am Almond croissant, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 3 Sept

Still working off the effects of the double whammy flu/Covid vaccines at the Fair. Was extremely tired by the end of yesterday, and better this morning though still a little tired. Hopefully this will be the last day of effects and it's a free Tuesday so I can relax as much as needed. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 2 Sept

Lovely Fair weekend in Minneapolis. Some of the most beautiful Fair weather we can remember, though unfortunately it brought out probably record crowds. Tried a chicken pesto Swiss crepe for breakfast and it may be my new favorite. Ate our ice cream around 11ish, and then had a grain bowl with 2 bison meatballs and 2 sweet potato dumplings later for lunch. Bob had a little upset stomach from the ice cream, but mostly finished the grain bowl which was too much for me. Other than the meals, the only other treat I had was a large glass of fresh-squeezed lemondade when I was fading in the afternoon. Seemed like the giveaways were a little better than usual this year. We were able to get both our flu shots and the latest Covid booster, and Bob adopted the storm drain outside our house with a pledge to keep it cleared. Food: 8:05 am Cherry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 31 Aug

Getting ready to walk to the Market for pastries, then breakfast and off to Minneapolis. Tomorrow the Fair! Pastries look delicious as usual. David was there himself today and confirmed that he is retiring at the end of this summer. Food: 8:20 am Antwerp square, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 30 Aug

Cloudy day but reasonably cool at this point, albeit humid. Tomorrow we head to Mpls for an overnight before the Fair! Should see sunshine and very pleasant temps there. Looking forward to it. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate pecan snail, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 29 Aug

August is almost over. Minnesota State Fair this weekend! Another birthday next week. Once the Fair is past, autumn seems to fly by. Food: 8:00 am Apricot danish, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 28 Aug

Today is the day the weather is supposed to head toward the cooler temps for awhile. Much welcome. Looking forward also to having Nichol back as the Body Pump instructor after much vacation time this summer. Food: 7:55 am Pigs ear, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 27 Aug

Should be the last really hot day if the weather forecast is somewhat accurate. Everyone, including me, is ready for a little bit cooler temps. Supposed to be in the low 70s for the fair on Sunday which would be ideal, partly cloudy skies. Charm joined us for OBT on Monday and I think she'll fit in very well. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 26 Aug

So nice to see Bagus and Fony and meet their son, Axel yesterday. It was as if no time had passed instead of 30 years. Axel is majoring in computer science so he may well be one of Laura's students this semester. Learned that we may get two new volunteers to fill out our Monday shift at OBT, and they may be Charm Fournier and Nancy Sommerfeld! It will be like old home at Human Services. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 25 Aug

Bagus and Fony are due to visit some time this afternoon, possibly with others in their family? They are settling second son Axel into the dorm in Madison this morning, then driving up to Point, so time is uncertain. Bagus said they are traveling with their family, but not sure who all that includes. We'll see when they get here. Food: 7:55 am Cherry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 24 Aug

Nice walk to Farmer's Market, albeit a bit humid on the return. The woman in front of us in line for pastries was extremely impatient with a young couple at the head of the line who asked numerous questions and took a lot of time. She even accused us (with sort of a smile) of stealing her time when Emma greeted us before starting her order. She finally got her order and we could converse with Emma in peace while we got all our yummy pastries. Off to see Laura for lunch in Madison today, and a TJs run before hurrying home to cantor for 5 pm Mass. Food: 8:25 am Antwerp square, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 23 Aug

Not going to Scandinavia tonight for a bar-time show from Michael's new band per his request. Can't say I'll miss staying out late. Busy weekend coming up with Madison, cantor at 5, and Bagus and Fony on Sunday. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 22 Aug

Weather has been very nice these last few days and looks to continue for awhile, a bit warmer next week. Summer continues to hang on for a bit yet. Michael texted to ask that we not attend his band's first performance in Scandinavia tomorrow as he's feeling quite underprepared and therefore anxious. We will wait til he's ready for prime time. Food: 8:05 am Kouign amann, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 21 Aug

Meeting at Holy Spirit this morning for Gregg Hansel to talk about how our parish can help in the effort to help with homelessness. Don't know if I'll try to see if the hiking club is at Schmeeckle at 1 since they haven't been lately. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate pecan snail, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 20 Aug

We're going to get a visit from Bagus and Fony and family on Sunday! It will be really nice to see them again after so many years. Michael and Taylor will be in town and will try to stop over to visit as well. Planning a nice Tuesday with nothing on my schedule today. Food: 7:55 am Blueberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 19 Aug

Had a very lovely overnight in Door County, hitting all the places I wanted to go but having a somewhat negative impact on the scale. Lost all sense of control when it came to buying good things to eat. We now have a kitchen full of baked goods, fruit, pie... Food: 8:00 am Cherry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 17 Aug

Going to Door Co after the Farmers Market and breakfast, just for the one night. Hope to get some fresh cherries, some good scones, eat dinner at Chef's Hat and breakfast at Fika, and get a good dose of the Door and hopefully some hiking. Pleasant temps but still very humid for our walk. Skies are threatening rain, so Emma's hoping to sell all their pastries before it lets loose. Food: 8:15 am Antwerp square, 122 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 16 Aug

We did get a room on Saturday night in Valmy so we do get to do a short hop to Door County after scoring pastries in the morning. The fun of deciding where to eat! Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 15 Aug

Halfway through August already - whoosh! Time flies. Rainy day today, predicted to go all day. Need to get my steps indoors today, at home and at Bootstrap. Food: 7:50 am Kouign amann, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 14 Aug

Geoff's last morning with us; he heads to Mpls for his flight out later today. I'm going to Body Pump for the first time in a couple of weeks. My attendance has been sparse this summer due to Suzuki, subbing at OBT, and occasional choice to skip if I didn't like the subbing instructor. Lori is scheduled to be there today and I like her. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate pecan snail, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 13 Aug

Yesterday Geoff and I walked down to Skip's church and were given the tour by Mona of all the renovations they have done. It was fun. Geoff and I walked along the river as far as the local planting before I had to be back at OBT for a very quiet afternoon. Ate the prime rib sandwiches from Wheel House for dinner before doing a Schmeeckle walk with Bob and Geoff. We're invited for dinner with Laurie Low tonight, even though she's scheduled for surgery tomorrow. Food: 8:25 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 12 Aug

Thanks to Geoff we found a new segment of the Ice Age Trail along the Waupaca River that was beautiful, filled with wild flowers. Around 3.5 miles if you walked both directions from the parking area, so a nice manageable length before heading to the Wheel House for pizza and to-go prime rib sandwiches for a dinner here with Geoff. He went to a water ski exhibition and a concert with some of his band friends and we got a quiet evening at home. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 11 Aug

Reunion last night was just a typical reunion dinner. We only stayed til about 9 so now the reunion weekend is done. Geoff is back staying here, not sure for how long, but he's an easy guest. Food: 8:05 am Cherry danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 10 Aug

Had a good time at the reunion last night and actually stayed til the end at 11 listening to the band. Bob did his Hanky Panky number with Geoff helping on vocals and looked only slightly petrified. Managed to keep my knees and feet reasonably okay in spite of standing mostly all evening. Kurt and Barb were there, as were John and Kathy. Saw a couple of people I know such as Cindy Grover and Linda Campbell in addition to those I know through Bob. Foood: 8:25 am Antwerp square, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 9 Aug

Really nice potluck at the band house in Waupaca last night. Quite a few people I knew, at least tangentially, and everyone was friendly and well-behaved. The food spread was great, one of the best summer potlucks I've been to. Whoever coordinated it made sure that there were all the foods represented, and the grilled meats were great. No one seemed to drink too much which was appreciated. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 skim milk, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 8 Aug

Potluck party tonight at the band house in Waupaca, leaving shortly after Bootstrap. Will bake some brownies to take along this morning and try to get in a walk. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 7 Aug

Subbing the AM shift at OBT today to hopefully make up for some of the times they subbed for me. Not crazy about getting up early to be there by 8 am, but I did it for Suzuki so I can do it now just once. Food: 7:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 6 Aug

Hair appointment today so I'll be fresh-looking for Bob's class reunion festivities. May try to make banana bread this morning as there are plenty of overripe bananas. Food: 8:05 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 5 Aug

Geoff moved on to the Waupaca rental where the band will be practicing this week. He's still hoping to get Bob to sing on more songs, but Bob seems pretty strong on sticking to the one he had previously promised. Today is supposed to be considerably cooler, though rainy most of the day. Not raining now, but chance all day. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 64 g blackberries, 46 g raspberries, coffee

Sat 3 Aug

Walked to the Farmer's Market with Geoff early, but no David this week so we went to Cozy Kitchen for breakfast. Returned to the market, still no David, but Jeremy was there so Geoff bought some more CBD cream. Walked past the outdoor venue of the Annex where Geoff's band will play Friday night. It still looks like a construction site, so hopefully they'll get it in shape by Friday. Food: 8:00 am 1 egg over easy, 1 pancake w/Karo, 1 strip bacon coffee

Fri 2 Aug

Geoff is here for a bit, so far a quiet guest. Yesterday was a busy day with a busy shift at Bootstrap, cooking a dinner that would allow a portion for Geoff when he arrived, and a 6:30 HSP Social Justice meeting where I was a principal presenter on OBT. This morning I go to sit with Leone from 9:30-2:00 so Mick can attend a funeral for a friend who recently passed away from cancer. Food: 7:55 am Prune paczki, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 1 Aug

Wow, August already! Geoff should be showing up this afternoon, I believe staying over for a few days at least. Chatted with Pia on the internet yesterday and scheduled to give a brief presentation to the Social Justice committee this evening. Will include a plea for more volunteers. Food: 8:05 am Almond croissant, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 31 Jul

Found a tick in my shower this morning, thankfully before I got in so I was able to remove him and send him to a watery grave in the toilet. Mick called while I was drying my hair to say he had to go to the ER yesterday because he bit his tongue and it wouldn't stop bleeding due to the blood thinner he takes. I will be going there on Friday from 9:30-2:00 to sit with Leone while Mick attends a funeral for a good friend who died from cancer. Food: 8:05 am 158 g cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 30 Jul

106 years since Grandma was born - Happy Birthday, Mom! Geoff may be coming as soon as a couple of days so I need to clean off the dining room table and clear out excess stuff from the spare bedroom and change the sheets today. Fortunately I have a free day to work on things. Food: 8:00 am Pain aux raisins, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 29 Jul

Had a lovely and unexpectedly longer weekend in Milwaukee for Christianah's birthday celebration. Stayed in two different hotels since I had only made the initial reservation for one night and I wouldn't have gotten the discounted rate to extend it. Second hotel was better anyway. Got to two new Costcos in the Milwaukee area. Forgot to get more Vitarain the first time so had to go to Costco again on Sunday. Drove up to Cedarburg on Saturday - hadn't been there in a long time. Food: 8:00 am Gibassier, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 26 Jul

Heading to Milwaukee today to celebrate Christianah's 70th birthday with her family and friends at the Nigerian Community Center. Bob and I have ankara dashikis that we ordered through Amazon to dress to honor her. Food: 8:10 am Honey bear, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 26 Jul

Last day of work at the Suzuki store for this year as we're going to Milwaukee tomorrow. My ankara arrived as promised yesterday and it is none too small. Had a hard time getting in and out of it, then noticed there is a well-concealed zipper down the back that will make it much easier in the future. Watched a few YouTube videos on how to tie the head wrap if I'm brave enough to wear it. Food: 7:00 am Kouign amann, 103 g blackberries, Dolce Gusto cappuccino

Wed 24 Jul

Feels a tad cooler this morning, and was able to keep all the covers on for much of the night last night. Excited about getting my ankara top for Christianah's party; should arrive today. Food: 7:00 am Chocolate walnut snail, 102 g blackberries, Dolce Gusto cappuccino

Sun 21 Jul

One more week of work at Suzuki, Christianah's birthday party this weekend. Had a lovely lunch with Laura at Jackknife yesterday. Got 5 lb. of fresh organic blueberries from Flyte and shared some with both kids. Food: 8:05 am Blueberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 20 Jul

Warm walk to the Farmer's Market. Met Jack en route to talk about his roof, and saw Heather at David's stand. Need to start going earlier as some pastries were already sold out by the time we arrived. The high summer crowds are now out. Food: 9:10 am Cherry danish, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 19 Jul

I have a day off today! I will try to go to the gym, organize the new shelf in the kitchen, and get the laundry done and hung outside, but I don't have to go into work anywhere else. Weather seems nice, warm and not unreasonably humid. Life is good. Food: 7:55 am Honey bear, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 18 Jul

Suzuki store at 8 and Bootstrap at 1, but I realized I have tomorrow off! Just laundry and perhaps Body Pump, even if it is with Lisa. Saturday we'll drive down to Madison for lunch with Laura and the usual erranding. Tomorrow I should also focus on cleaning up the guest room for Geoff's visit. Food: 7:00 am Chocolate walnut snail, 104 g blackberries, Dolce Gusto cappuccino

Wed 17 Jul

Got up early for Suzuki and Bob didn't have time to get the dead mouse out of the kitchen trap so I let out a rather guttural yelp. I'll survive. Really good Kouign Amann this morning. Looking forward to Chef Christian's po-boys for dinner tonight, as well as a massage at 4. Have a videocall with the Social Justice folks to meet Pia tonight. Food: 7:10 am Kouign amann, 101 g blackberries, Dolce Gusto cappuccino

Tues 16 Jul

Beautiful summer morning today. Hopefully I'll get a long walk by the river to get my steps in before a long afternoon at the Suzuki store. Went out for Mexican at El Mezcal last night and were lucky enough to have Diego as our waiter. So nice to talk with him again. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 15 Jul

Another warm day, but this time I'm taking a sweater along to Suzuki so I'm not shivering indoors by the end of my shift. The store is pretty well set up again and I'm refamiliarizing myself with the cash register. Today I need to learn how to use the Zettle app to operate the credit card reader. I was unable to download the app yesterday because I couldn't remember my Apple ID and got locked out of the App Store. It wouldn't allow me to reset the password since I was in an unfamiliar place. Food: 6:55 am Blueberry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 14 Jul

Picked up a shift to work this afternoon from 12-5:30 as Taz has to work at another job. Was quite tired yesterday after walking to the Farmer's Market, walking to work from 10-1:45, setting up the shop during my shift with Rachel and Taz, coming home to do Duo, walking to church to cantor. Sharon Maes gave me a ride home from church as it was raining buckets, something we hadn't expected. Food: 7:55 am Cherry danish, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 13 Jul

Going to be a warm one today. Feeling a little sweaty after the walk to the Farmer's Market, but ran into Heather and Morgan on the way! So good to see her! Food: 9:05 am Antwerp square, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 12 Jul

Back into summer warm, though not as bad as the parts of the country well over 100°. It was so nice at the North Shore with temps in the 60s and 70s, and humidity mostly confined to the wetter sections of the trails. Had a wonderful few days with good hikes, canoeing on the calm of Gunflint Lake, good eats. Food: 8:10 am Bear claw, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 7 Jul

Had a nice hike at Steinhaugen yesterday morning followed by lunch at the Jordan Bar. Learned that Geoff will be coming for the reunion sans Michele as she doesn't want to hang around for so long feeling like a fifth wheel. Heading up to the North Shore today until Thursday. Food: 7:00 am Cherry danish, 85 g raspberries, coffee

Sat 6 Jul

Lovely sunny summer Saturday. David and Susan were on the square so we have another week's worth of delicious pastries, some of which will come with us to the North Shore. Chatted with Rick Zahn outside David's stand. Other than being back for church at 5, we have the remainder of the day free for a possible good hike. Food: 9:00 am Antwerp square, 54 g blackberries, 51 g raspberries, coffee

Fri 5 Jul

Had a special holiday supper last night with grilled filet mignon, complete with garlic scape butter; sauteed snap peas; and air fryer potatoes with vanilla ice cream with fresh raspberries for dessert. Yum! Such a treat. Another rainy Friday so no hanging laundry outside again. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 4 Jul

It's the Fourth of July! Our concert last night with Non Serio was lots of fun and we got to hear an extensive selection of their repertoire at the beginning. It's been a fun experience being a part of this impromptu choir and singing with people from across the pond. No plans for the holiday, but leaving for the North Shore on Sunday for a few days. Food: 7:55 am Kouign amann, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 3 Jul

Body Pump this morning, rehearsal with the Polish choir this afternoon, and concert at Michelsen this evening. Big day. I was pleased that the rhubarb bars were a big hit at the potluck last night - not one left. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate snail, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 2 Jul

Rainy today as predicted, though not raining right now. Would be very nice if it didn't thunderstorm or even rain during the scheduled time of the picnic with the visiting choir from Poland. Andy is certain the Boy Scout shelter is big enough for everyone to be safely inside if storms should happen. Need to make rhubarb bars this morning as my contribution. Food: 8:00 am Apricot danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 1 Jul

Will be spending a couple of hours with Leone today while Mick attends a wedding out of town with friends. He called again this morning to go over last-minute instructions. From there to OBT, then home for Duo and leftover broasted chicken before our final choir practice as the Yankee choir. Busy day. Should try to get in a walk before I go to Leone's or it will be tricky to get all my steps today. Food: 8:05 am Blueberry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 30 Jun

Half the year over already! Hard to believe how quickly time passes. Went to church last night, so today is a free day, sunny, and we plan to head off hiking, possibly at Timm's Hill or perhaps we'll check out Power's Bluff. Leaning toward Timm's Hill. Food: 8:00 am Cherry danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 20 Jun

Sweaty walk to the Farmer's Market - not high temps but very humid. Susan was in the booth with David and looked quite good and perky. David was in a surly mood but she was cheery. Good to see her looking fairly healthy. Food: 9:00 am Antwerp square, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 28 Jun

Bernie Sanders is coming to Point today! Only heard about it through Kathy from Bootstrap who sent a message through Facebook, but I'm looking forward to going. Skipping gym this morning so I can get my laundry well-started before I go. Food: 7:55 am 84 g lemon blueberry loaf, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 26 Jun

Hopefully the weather will follow through as forecast and cool down for the next several days. The heat and humidity of the last few days has been somewhat oppressive. A break would be nice. Food: 7:55 am 76 g lemon blueberry loaf, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 25 Jun

Will be warm again today, then somewhat cooler for a few days thereafter. Yesterday it was beautiful in the morning for a walk along the river, then warmer in the afternoon. May try to repeat that today. Food: 8:00 am 91 g cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 24 Jun

Sunny Monday morning. Had a lovely hike at Rib, all the way to the top, yesterday. Choir practice again this week. Food: 8:05 am 70 g cinnamon roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 23 Jun

Very nice day in Madison yesterday. Lunch with Laura at Alchemy, a change of plans from Monty's which was overrun with people. Bob and I each had the most delicious grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with broccoli, carrots, onions and tomatoes with a side of grilled asparagus with a yummy sesame ginger sauce. Got all of our erranding done with only a little smattering of rain while we loaded the car at Costco in spite of predictions of possible rain most of the day. Food: 8:00 am 71 g cinnamon roll, 98 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 22 Jun

Rain, rain! Came down buckets while I was in the bathroom this morning, and looks to continue through the day. We will take discretion and drive to the Farmer's Market this morning, hoping that David even comes.

Fri 21 Jun

Going to Sharon Fluguar's funeral this morning. Expect it will be well-attended and very sad. Haven't seen Brandon and Kristin since they were in middle school. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 20 Jun

Thank you, St. Anthony! I found my license and credit card, in the pocket of pants I would have worn the day after I got home. I only checked the clothes I wore home from vacation because I was stuck on having lost them that day. I didn't actually miss them for a few days until I needed them again, so this morning I wondered whether I might have picked them up and put them in a pocket the next day (or even two) and then forgotten them in other pants. The third pair of possible pants I checked was a score! I'm so happy and relieved. Food: 8:10 am Kouign amann, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 19 Jun

Juneteenth today. There will be a celebration at the Riverfront on Saturday, but we'll be visiting Laura. Enjoying the return of David's pastries for as long as it lasts. Food: 7:55 am Apricot danish, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 18 Jun

Happy Birthday, Michael! He is 32 today - unbelievable! What a fine young man he has become! Food: 8:05 am Cream-filled brioche, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 17 Jun

Had a nice celebration of Father's Day yesterday with a hike at the Ice Age Trail at Hartman's Creek followed by prime rib sandwiches at the Wheel House. Starting choir practices for the Polish choir collaboration this evening. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate walnut danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 16 Jun

Happy Father's Day! Cloudy morning with on-and-off rain, but not so heavy to preclude walking to church this morning. Plan is to go to Wheel House for prime rib this afternoon/evening. If weather clears, maybe we'll be able to walk for a bit at Hartman's Creek first. We start rehearsals with the choir to sing with the Polish choir tomorrow and Tuesday evenings. Food: 8:00 am Cherry danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 15 Jun

Lovely morning for a walk down to the Farmer's Market. David had a full array of pastries to choose from and a long line waiting to appreciate them. So good to be savoring a fresh Antwerp square again after so long doing without. Food: 8:50 am Antwerp square, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 14 Jun

Mick called this morning to ask if I could come spend some time with Leone on Mon Jul 1 so he can attend a mid-week wedding for an old friend. I can help him out from about 10:30-12:45 before OBT. Leone is officially off of Hospice now, so he had to get a different hospital bed and arrange for another person to come help with her shower. He seems to be coping very well. Food: 8:05 am 69 g raspberry rugelach, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 13 Jun

Driver's license and credit card have still not surfaced, though no one has used the credit card since I last saw it so it may not be lost. I'm running out of ideas of where to look. Food: 8:10 am 58 g raspberry rugelach, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 12 Jun

Heading into summer with temps predicted in the 80s pretty much from here on for the foreseeable future. It was somewhat strange to have left Wisconsin on vacation when things were just beginning to green out and to return into full summer leaves and thick grass, and now the temperatures will match. The year is almost half over already. Yeeeesh! Food: 7:55 am 127 g Nutella paczki, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 11 Jun

Yet another lovely day ahead. Pleased that the scale is inching down a bit again. My legs are starting to look more like they ought. Hope I can keep that up even without full days of walking in the hills. Food: 7:50 am 127 g plum paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 10 Jun

Back to routine again, more or less. One Big Tent this afternoon, it will be good to be back. Looks like another lovely, sunny day. Enjoying the paczki from the Polish grocery in Chicago. Food: 7:50 am 131 g raspberry paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 9 Jun

Back from the UK, and very happy that my scale not only didn't go up, it was down a couple of pounds! Now to keep it under control and down just a bit more to what I deem is a healthy weight for me. Beautiful day for our return, hopefully good for a nice hike this afternoon. Trip was wonderful, with plenty of good hiking in the Cotswolds, and fun seeing London at the end. Was pleased that my stamina training paid off and we made it through most of the days, only baling early twice on longer days. The first was planned due to the length and difficulty of the hike predicted, and the last day, we took a bus the final four kilometers into Bath. Food: 7:50 am 123 g black currant paczki, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 20 May

Today's the day! We leave for the Costwolds, flying out of Chicago this evening. Here's hoping and praying for safe travels, minimal glitches, and an overall wonderful time. And that all our family and friends remain safe and happy here. The party for remembering Chuck Reichl was fun yesterday. Many friends from Newman days and new people to meet, shared stories, food, and our sangria went over well. Food: 8:00 am Small piece rhubarb coffee cake, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 19 May

Can't believe that tomorrow we leave already. It always seems so long in the anticipation, and then - BOOM! - it's here. No more procrastinating on finalzing the packing and the carry-on. Been doing it a little at a time, but today I need to ensure that everything I want and need for the trip is ready to go. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c Maple Pecan crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 67 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 18 May

Another beautiful day with hints of summer. 65° already! Had a partial hike of Rib yesterday evening with burgers at Red Robin to follow. Tonight I co-cantor with Kathy B. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 93 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 17 May

Syttende Mai! And a lovely day it appears to be with sunshine and temps already at 54°. Perhaps we'll get out for a hike later this afternoon as Bob thinks he may be done early. Laundry to do, and I'll try to get the bedding switched over to the summer weight today so it's in place when we return in June. Food: 7:45 am 94 g Costco morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 16 May

Rainy day, coming down substantially. My plants will be thoroughly watered today, finished planting the herb garden yesterday so it will get a good start. Don't need to check my raingear further so I'll get my steps indoors today. Maybe try to get on the bike since it's been idle of late. Food: 7:55 am 94 g Costco morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 15 May

Sunny again, 48° to start the day. Will try to do Body Pump this morning and Schmeeckle hike group this afternoon. Made it just to 20,000 steps yesterday. Food: 7:50 am 95 g Costco morning bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 14 May

Looks sunshiny, temps at 48°. Should have time for a Bukolt loop walk this morning to get a good start on daily steps. Got better than 18,000 yesterday. Hopefully these longer walking days will have a positive impact on my stamina for the Cotswolds. I already felt more energetic on the last Rib hike. Food: 8:00 am 96 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 13 May

Only one more week before we head out to the Cotswolds. Preparations need to be reviewed and finalized this week; it's getting real! Had a nice hike yesterday afternoon at the Ice Age Trail at Hartman's Creek, followed by prime rib sandwiches at the Wheel House for Mother's Day dinner. Temps are already at 57° under somewhat overcast skies. Food: 8:00 am 92 g Costco morning bun, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 11 May

Nice, bright sunshine this morning and temp is at 48°. Looking forward to the Cultural Fest today. Getting more and more packing done, and will try to review my list today to make sure I'm not forgetting things. Will try to remember to take my drivers' license and credit card along this time! Food: 7:55 am 100 g Costco morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 10 May

Looks like sunshine out there this morning, always welcome. Just body pump and laundry on the schedule so far. Cultural fest tomorrow. Food: 8:00 am 91 g Costco morning bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 9 May

Today would have been Catherine's 108 birthday. Born same year as both of our dads and two years ahead of my mom. Cloudy and slightly cooler today; yesterday was sunny and beautiful and almost too warm for some during our afternoon walk in the sun, though not too warm for me. Food: 8:00 am 99 g Costco morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 8 May

Sunny day today, should be nice. Attended the WPR info session last night in Wausau and saw Fr. Tom! Radio changes take place the day we're leaving for England, so I'll wait til I return to adjust to the new format. Food: 7:55 am 98 g Costco morning bun, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 7 May

Going to be a busy Tuesday with a dentist appointment, review call from Thomas Mead, and WPR event in Wausau this evening. Clouds moving in for scattered rain and possible thunderstorms today. Having one of those "didn't want to get out of bed" mornings. Food: 8;10 am 67 g OH raspberry kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 6 May

Bob used the Cup-A-Bug twice now to remove medium/large spiders from high on my bathroom walls. Tis the season. Tomorrow will be busy with the dentist at 11, call from Thomas Mead at 1, and WPR presentation in Wausau at 6. Food: 8:05 am 85 g OH raspberry kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 5 May

Cinco de Mayo! Had a very nice trip to Madison for lunch and erranding and then to hike, albeit when I was tired, the Tumbled Rocks/bluff loop at Devil's Lake. Topped off with a light dinner at the Log Cabin and it was a lovely day. Even saw wild geraniums and Dutchmen's breeches on our hike. Food: 8:10 am 75 g OH raspberry kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 4 May

May the Fourth be with you! Overcast sunshine at the moment, but possible rain this afternoon. Hopefully some walking in regardless. Got over 24,000 steps yesterday! Food: 7:55 am 93 g OH raspberry kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 3 May

Friday has again rolled around quicker than expected. Funny how that didn't happen when I was working. Now it seems as if it's always laundry day. Should be nice and warm now for a few days. Food: 7:50 am 93 g OH raspberry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 2 May

Warm but possibly rainy today. Haven't been gettig 20,000 steps now for about a week, though I have been getting 15,000-18,000. Hard to fit in the really long walks with the rest of my activities, and I also am feeling the drain of consistent heavier activity. But better I deal with the drain now and increase the stamina (which was the whole idea), than that I feel the drain on the Cotswolds trail and have to foreshorten days too often. I'll keep trying while I'm still here to build up the stamina. Got my new light rain jacket yesterday, so if it's raining today, it gives me a better chance to try it out. Food: 7:55 am 66 g OH raspberry kringle, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 1 May

It's May Day! A true sign of spring. I remember fondly making May baskets for the kids when they were little with treats, and also getting paper May baskets on the front door from the school kids across the street. We no longer celebrate the day, but it's nice to acknowledge the turn of the season. Food: 7:55 am 78 g OH raspberry kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 30 Apr

Last day of April for this year. The weather has been so up-and-down this year that it's hard to realize we're moving toward the summer months, but so we are. In less than 3 weeks, we'll be heading to the UK for our grand hiking/London adventure, and when we return, it may well be summer here. Food: 8:00 am 78 g OH raspberry kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 29 Apr

Did Schmeeckle in full-out rain yesterday. Discovered that the seams of my rain jacket are a weak point, so whereas my torso and head stayed dry, the back of my neck down to my upper back soaked through where the seam from the hood was overwhelmed, and there were wet spots on my front around the zipper seams as well. Will try to seal the seams if we can since the rest of the jacket functions well. Food: 7:55 am 99 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun Apr 28

Had a nice day yesterday, starting with a Bukolt Loop walk to get all our steps in lest the travel/erranding and potential bad weather made it difficult to get a lot more later on. Drove down to Madison after an early light lunch, hit Costco/Woodmans/TJs, and had a lovely dinner at Lombardino's. The bad weather never really materialized other than fairly strong winds throughout the day. Food: 7:55 am 67 g blueberry kringle, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 27 Apr

Heading down to Madison today, so again it will be difficult to get 20,000 steps though I did get to 16,000 yesterday. And we did get a brief part of our Schmeeckle walk with a light rain at the end as well. We'll do our best to get something in today, perhaps a Bukolt loop before we go to Madison if we aren't meeting Laura for lunch. Food: 8:00 am 76 g blueberry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 26 Apr

Clouds today, but reasonable temps. Coffee this morning with Bootstrap buds, which doesn't even displace Body Pump as Nicole isn't going to be there so they're offering the other class I don't like anyway. Got an extra shift at Bootstrap this afternoon as they were short-staffed for today. Might go to see Laura tomorrow, but she's had a Covid exposure, so masking and extra caution is required. Food: 7:55 am 68 g blueberry kringle, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 25 Apr

Another sunny but cool morning. Hoping to get in a long walk in this morning as I have an OBT board meeting after Bootstrap so no evening walk today. I have managed to keep up my streak of close to 20,000 steps per day since Saturday, but I probably won't get that many today. Bob agreed that we will go for some long walks this weekend even if it's raining. Might as well get truly prepared for what we may encounter in the Cotswolds. Food: 7:55 am 98 g blueberry kringle, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 24 Apr

Another nice, sunny day, though almost 20 degrees cooler this morning than it was at this time yesterday. So goes spring in Wisconsin. Have gotten close to or over 20,000 steps four days in a row now, so am working on the endurance piece that I lacked last year. It will be more challenging come this weekend when it's supposed to rain several days in a row. Don't know if I have the mettle to keep up my walking practice in the rain. Food: 7:55 am 78 g blueberry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 23 Apr

A little warmer again this morning, so I'll try to get out for another long walk to keep up my endurance training. My Fitbit got down to 6% charge yesterday, cutting out functionality at 10% during OBT. Didn't get credit for anything much after 1 pm til I got home and charged it up, but it seems okay now. Fingers crossed. Food: 7:55 am 73 g blueberry kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 22 Apr

Daughter turns 39 today! Hard to imagine. Hope she has a good one. Had a couple of very good longer hikes this weekend which really helps to build endurance for the Cotswolds. Hope to keep it up til we go so I don't poop out on the longer days like I did in the Alps. Food: 8:00 am 95 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 21 Apr

Sun is shining and it's supposed to get a bit warmer today. Had a really nice hike yesterday on the Plover River segments of the Green Circle and are planning to go up to the Ice Age Trail beyond Wausau in search of spring ephemerals after Mass today. Saw some Siberian squill on the trail yesterday but that was it for flowers. Food: 8:00 am 98 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 20 Apr

Weekends come quickly when you travel the previous Sun-Tues. Had hoped to lunch with Laura for her birthday, but she has other plans. Gives us a free day to plan something fun. Food: 7:55 am 98 g Costco morning bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 19 Apr

Nice to see bright sunshine today. No real plans for the upcoming weekend. Can't believe how quickly laundry day comes around each week. Used to seem that Fridays took forever to come when I was working. Food: 8:00 am 96 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 18 Apr

Leadership summit tonight at Holy Spirit, possibly due to go late. But there will be ice cream to belatedly celebrate Dave Baker's 80th birthday at the end. Will try to do Duo this morning so I don't have to fit it in after Bootstrap. Food: 7:55 am 141 g caramel pecan roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 17 Apr

Lovely time in Door County, and once again, the Lord provided us with excellent weather for hiking and enjoying our break. Hiked Sunday at the Riges, Monday at Three Springs Door Co Land Trust in the morning and Peninsula in the afternoon. Tuesday we walked the trails outside our resort along the water and the bluffs before heading out. Had a very nice dinner Sunday evening at Lure, lunch at Al's on Monday and Main St Market ribs in the room for dinner, and a wonderful potato waffle with smoked salmon and creme fraiche for lunch before leaving on Tuesday. The resort provided nice grab-and-go breakfast both days. Food: 8:10 am 142 g caramel pecan roll, 102 g blackberries, coffe

Sun 14 Apr

Planning an early start to Door Co this morning. Went to church yesterday evening - twice in one day counting Judie Janquart's funeral! Going to be beautiful weather here, though a little cooler in Door Co. Hoping to see a spring ephemeral or two poking out on a hike. Food: 7:10 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 13 Apr

We'll go to Judy Janquart's funeral this morning to support Gina Buda, her sister. We have a beginner plant ID class as Schmeeckle at 1 pm and church at 5, so a busy day. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 12 Apr

Having money worries. Woke up in the night thinking about Bob presenting me with half of his expenses for estimated taxes and car insurance and realized he probably has had very little income in the first quarter of the year. Between being in Spain for a month with zero income, and having worked outside jobs very rarely since we returned, he probably has almost nothing coming in. Time for a serious discussion of expenses and finances. Food: 7:45 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 11 Apr

Yesterday was a lovely, mild day and we did get a hike in at Rib to the top of the big hill. Had dinner at the Dane with a really nice waitress who said she had lost over 200 pounds. She said they have actual Noom counselors in Wausau, but she wasn't overly fond of their program. She waxed poetic about some of the foods at Kwik Trip; they pay her to do cooking videos for them. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 10 Apr

Looks to be a lovely, sunny day today with hopefully time for an afternoon hike at Rib to appreciate the weather. Made it to Schmeeckle yesterday evening. Hoping the weather in Door County is pleasant enough for some good hiking Sun-Tues. Food: 8:00 am 100 g lemon blueberry loaf, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 9 Apr

Some sunshine out there among the darker clouds. Temps have been milder. Hopefully a hike either today or tomorrow while the forecast is still good. Food: 7:55 am 73 g lemon blueberry loaf, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 8 Apr

Happy 43rd anniversary of our first date. So it all began. Temps are moderating a bit more this week, though we may see some minor precip. OBT today without Poffinbarger, but Eric should be back. Food: 8:05 am 83 g lemon blueberry loaf cake, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 7 Apr

Sun is shining this morning, but the clouds are moving in fast and it's supposed to precipitate most of the day. Shame to have a free day when the weather isn't great for a long walk. Food: 7:55 am 92 g lemon blueberry loaf, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 6 Apr

Sunshine again today - most welcome. I cantor tonight, but otherwise unscheduled. Hoping for a nice long hike during the day. Food: 8:00 am 70 g lemon blueberry loaf, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 5 Apr

Feels just a tad warmer today, though it could be my imagination or wishful thinking. Cantor on Saturday so no real weekend plans. Hopefully the weather will cooperate for a longer hike as we really haven't walked at all this week. Food: 7:55 am 72 g raspberry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 4 Apr

Snow continues to drift down, but fortunately not to accumulate. Looks rather dreary outside. Hopefully we'll see some spring-like weather again someday soon. Food: 7:55 am 72 g raspberry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 3 Apr

The multi-hour snow yesterday left very little in terms of accumulation thanks to temps that hovered just at or above freezing most of the day. Would be nice if winter was winding down, but of course this is Wisconsin, so I won't hold my breath. Food: 7:55 am 62 g raspberry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 2 Apr

Got my new magnetic phone charger/holder so I don't have to balance my phone on the pen holder to read it in the morning. Nice. Lots of fun things have come into our house in the last month or so: new hot tub, new exercise bike, new coffee maker. Wow, we are blessed! Food: 8:05 am 84 g raspberry kringle, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 1 Apr

Temps aren't too bad today. We had a fairly mild walk at Schmeeckle yesterday afternoon, then a visit from M/T who downloaded the video game they have been telling us about for some time. Michael helped set up Bob's character while we watched, then I tried to set mine up and got really frustrated after they left and I could, 101 n't figure out what to do. After calling them twice to get unstuck, I shut it down and will need to gather my courage to try again. They did mention some online sites that could help, especially with newbies so I may look them up. Food: 8:00 am 88 g raspberry kringle, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 31 Mar

Happy Easter! Were finally able to use the new Dolce Gusto coffee maker this morning. Outlet has been installed for Brit power, adapter has arrived to modify the plug, coffee pods are here, and we were good to go. Looking forward to a real cappuccino after my regular coffee. Food: 6:20 am 63 g raspberry OH kringle, 105 g blackberries, Dolce Gusto coffee

Sat 30 Mar

Got rained on part of the way to the Farmer's Market, but not heavily. No rain on the return. No hot cross buns, sigh. But did get eggs and some mushrooms for Laura for her Easter gift. Food: 9:10 am 82 g banana bread, 1 tsp butter, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 29 Mar

Good Friday. Planning to go to the gym this morning, then laundry as usual. Haven't made a decision on church today, as we don't always go on Good Friday. Meal was nice yesterday with folks I know from OBT. Not many parishioners showed up to eat with the Place of Peace people. Food: 7:50 am 73 g banana bread, 1 tsp butter, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 28 Mar

Holy Thursday already. Tonight we eat the Holy Thursday supper with the Place of Peace people so there may be folks I know from OBT joining us. Need to bake cookies this morning and take them over to church so they can be set out when the food is set up. Food: 7:55 am 93 g banana bread w/butter, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 27 Mar

Back to cooler weather again, though yesterday didn't really live up to its promise of getting quite warm. Temps peaked early afternoon and started falling rather rapidly with wind. We had a spontaneous dinner date at El Mezcal last night after a grocery run. Food: 7:50 am 90 g banana bread, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 26 Mar

Rainy evening and seems to be lasting into today. Snow is already gone from the rooftops and likely will disappear from the ground today as the temps are already 43°. Planning kind of a do-nothing day today. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 92 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 25 Mar

Got what looks like about 6 inches of snow overnight, a proper March snowstorm. Should start raining later this morning for a full day or more, and temps are supposed to get into the 40s and 50s over the next two days, so it will likely all be gone again soon. Ah, spring in Wisconsin! Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 90 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 24 Mar

More snow to come this afternoon/evening, so they say. A little fell overnight, and it's trickling down now, but the true snow is scheduled to start around 1 pm. Had fun going to the Wheel House for beer and pizza last night; been quite a while since we did that before. Plans in place to lunch with Laura at Jacknife on Saturday while erranding in Madison. Food: 7:50 am Hot cross bun, 94 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 23 Mar

Chilly morning for a walk to the Farmer's Market - 16° when we left. And all for nothing as David did not make more hot cross buns and we really didn't need anything else. But we did get a good start on steps for the day. Twisted my knee painfully stepping up a messy corner, but it's better now. Food: 8:55 am Hot cross bun, 99 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 22 Mar

Nothing like starting the day with technology headaches. Fitbit wouldn't allow me to log in to my account; it kept saying it was sending password reset instructions but they never appeared in my email. Finally had to call Fitbit support; they were able to determine that they had a gmail account linked to my Fitbit that I never use. When I used that email address signing in through Google, I was able to sign in (only after a rigamarole with verifying my Apple ID). Yikes! Food: 8:10 am Hot cross bun, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 21 Mar

Bootstrap may be short-staffed today as Maggie, Kathy, and Erin will all be gone. Hopefully Melissa has secured at least one sub so it won't be just Ann and me, though if it continues to be slow, it would be okay. Food: 7:55 am Hot cross bun, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 20 Mar

First day of spring, but it's snowing. Not that there's been much snow this winter. Scale is back down after the bump from Sunday's dinner. I drank extra water yesterday to offset the salty pasty. Food: 7:55 am Hot cross bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 19 Mar

Happy Birthday, Mick and Val! A somewhat chilly morning as the thermostat didn't kick the heat on as usual. Need to stop over to see Leone and Mick to drop off the cookies before they get stale. Food: 7:55 am Hot cross bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 18 Mar

Fun dinner at Chef's Kitchen last night, but we stopped consuming the cocktails about halfway through as 7 small cocktails is about 4 too many. Didn't enter my food as I had forgotten to bring my phone, but it would have been way over the limit anyway, and the scale is reflective this morning with a 3-4 pound increase. Hope that backs off within a day or two. Food: 7:55 am Hot cross bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 17 Mar

Very nice dinner with Michael and Taylor to celebrate Bob's birthday yesterday evening, and tonight we have the cocktail-pairing dinner at Chef's Kitchen. Water heater was fritzing this morning, so I just skipped the shower instead of suffering a cool/tepid one. Hopefully it's not dying. Food: 7:35 am Hot cross bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 16 Mar

Happy Birthday, Bob! Got my hot cross buns at the market this morning. Dinner tonight at Michael and Taylor's; Michael insisted on doing all the cooking. We'll walk over after I cantor at church. Food: 8:50 am Hot cross bun, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 15 Mar

Finally got my geek scale hooked up to my phone, but not until after my shower so I had to start my data with a head of wet hair adding 1.2 pounds to the initial weight it gave me when it wasn't connected to the phone. Food: 8:20 am 155 g Costco cherry cheese danish, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 14 Mar

Happy Pi Day! Not going to Zumba this morning as my knees are not at their best since last week. No need to push them to the limit. Might go to the Monteverdi concert at HSP tonight if we're up for it. Food: 7:55 am 75 g pecan kringle, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 13 Mar

One more really nice day, then return to more normal but not bad temps. Hot tub arrived as scheduled yesterday, now Bob just needs to find time to put it all together. Ordered a coffee maker like the one we had in Spain last night. Had to order it from Amazon.uk as the US version didn't carry it, though I can order the pods through the US version. I'll be able to make good cappuccinos at home soon. Food: 7:55 am 57 g pecan kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 12 Mar

New hot tub is scheduled to be delivered today! Will be nice if it's not too difficult for Bob to assemble and get up and running. I've missed being able to get that nice warm feeling right before bed at night. Food: 7:55 am 66 g pecan kringle, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 11 Mar

Hopefully it will be a bit warmer now for at least a few days. Hard to complain too much about being chilly this weekend, considering the mild winter we've had, but it felt cold. Was nice to get out to Mead for a walk with the sun on our backs. Saw a large flock of sandhill cranes down at the end of the path, but didn't get too close to disturb them. Food: 8:00 am 63 g pecan kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 10 Mar

Daylight Savings Time has begun so we're an hour later than our bodies think it is. House heat didn't come on this morning at waking time, so it was a chilly time getting dressed. Had a nice lunch with daughter yesterday and some extra time since she had asked Bob to take a look at an issue with Kat's condo. Got our erranding done. Tried to stop at Cimaroli's for dinner at 4:50, but it was already so crowded it would have been 1-1/2 hours to get a table. We were home by that time, so we just picked up Rocky's. Food: 8:00 am 57 g pecan kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 9 Mar

Chillier morning, couldn't manage to move the ON switch on my bathroom heater, but Bob put some WD-40 on it and said it's looser now. Wearing a fuzzy green sweater that I snagged at Bootstrap on Thursday; I'll replace it with the fuzzy dark blue sweater I bought but didn't like when I return next Thursday. Going to Madison today to lunch with Laura and do our errands. Our heads weren't on home shopping when we went to Costco after returning from Spain, but now we have a list. Food: 8:05 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 8 Mar

Decided to skip Body Pump this morning. My knees were not happy after Zumba yesterday and it kind of lasted on and off all day. Also felt like I might be coming down with a cold, though not too evident this morning. Haven't had a good poop for a couple of days either, so that's making me feel like I'd like to stay home and let it happen this morning. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 7 Mar

Must remember committee meeting tonight. Would be all too easy to forget to go. Zumba this morning, Bootstrap this afternoon. Food: 7:45 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 6 Mar

Hopefully Nicole will be there for Body Pump this morning. It was okay using the video, much better than canceling for lack of an instructor, but I much prefer having her to lead us. Food: 7:50 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 5 Mar

Good to be back to OBT yesterday, albeit a rather slow day. The whole crew was on board at least part of the time, so I could reconnect with my coworkers. It was also nice to visit with Leone and Mick in the morning. Today I have coffee with the Bootstrap Buds at Emy Js Vault. I get a cappuccino again, just like my morning routine in Spain. Food: 7:55 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 4 Mar

Now we'll really dive into life in Stevens Point again. Last week was kind of a graceful, slow acclimation, but this feels like the real thing. Should stop over to see Leone and Mick today, and back to OBT this afternoon. Weather was beautiful this weekend, but I think it will be slightly cooler this week, though still mild for March. It appears that all the snow in the yard is gone (unless we get more). Food: 7:50 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 3 Mar

Lovely mild weather this weekend, reminiscent of Spain. Attended the pre-event with cozy historical mystery authors at Taylor's bookstore. I hadn't purchased the $15 tickets because of the cost, but Taylor texted in the morning and asked if I'd like to come and bring a friend at no cost. Apparently they wanted to fill seats. Bought a book from one of the authors and she signed it for me. Going to the larger free event this afternoon at O'So. Food: 8:00 am 2 biscuits Chocolate Weetabix, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 2 Mar

Cantor this evening, but Bob ushers tomorrow so we'll go separately. Went out for fish tacos yesterday after a Schmeeckle walk - I guess we're back home again! And David has promised me hot cross buns next week! Food: 7:55 am 2 biscuits Chocolate Weetabix, 1/2 c skim milk, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 1 Mar

Busy day today with Body Pump, hair appointment, and a mountain of laundry, along with remembering not to eat meat for dinner tonight. Should be starting to warm up again for the weekend. Food: 7:50 am 2 biscuits Weetabix Chocolate, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 29 Feb

Happy Leap Day! Won't see this date again for another 4 years. Starting to settle in to being back home. Saw Michael twice and Taylor once yesterday which was really nice. Today Zumba and Bootstrap. Food: 7:55 am 2 biscuits Chocolate Weetabix, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 28 Feb

Home again! It was a wonderful month in Denia, settling into a routine in a very nice apartment, eating amazing food every day (but keeping a close eye on my weight by purchasing a scale at Decathlon immediately upon arrival), getting in quite a few beautiful hikes in sunshine, pleasant temps, and gorgeous scenery. Loved being surrounded by mountains and orange groves. Very pleased that my phone is fully charged again this morning after a little glitch yesterday afternoon when it wouldn't take a charge. Bob was able to clean a bunch of gunk out of the charging portal which probably did the trick. Think I'm going to skip Body Pump this morning as I want a day to just kind of slip back into the home routine. I do have a massage at 1 which should help work out the kinks from carrying my suitcase around the airports. Food: 7:50 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 28 Jan

Ready to roll! I think/hope that we are pretty well under control and I pray that our travel day happens safely and according to schedule. God be with us, and with our family, friends, and others who remain here. Food: 5:45 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan Crunch, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 27 Jan

Final day for preparation. Need to go over my suitcase and add socks and shoes and make sure it's not overweight. Will check United's guidelines online. Food: 8:05 am TJs Maple Pecan Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 26 Jan

Last weekday in Wisconsin for awhile. All exterior obligations (e.g. Bootstrap, OBT, boards and committees) have been discharged so now it's just us getting last-minute prep taken care of. Yesterday we dealt with an issue with the rental car and hopefully that is now satisfactorily resolved with a different car company and a cost savings. Praying that the Lord continues to take good care of us, and to care for those we love who remain here. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 25 Jan

Warm weather continues, albeit cloudy. Hoping to go to Zumba this morning, but I'm so fuzzy since getting out of bed that I'll likely have difficulty following the steps. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 24 Jan

Warming continues, feels pretty nice outside. Have been corresponding with Javier, the owner of the Denia apartment about details of checking in. Makes it more real. Hiking at Schmeeckle today depends on what time Trevor arrives with the food. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 23 Jan

Warm temps again - 26° this morning, and 40s forecast here for next week. Glad those we leave behind will enjoy some nice weather too. Getting excited about the trip and trying to go over last-minute details. Planning to squeeze in a Pilates mat this morning to put my body in order. Was wishing the scale would dip down into the 145s before I leave, and this morning it was 145.8! I was thrilled. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 22 Jan

Finally the warmer weather is coming back. Breakfast temps this morning 18.9° Feeling happy for the folks on the streets that they won't have to deal with the bitter cold for awhile now. Less than a week til we leave for Spain. We'll arrive there around 11 am their time next Monday. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 21 Jan

Packers made a valiant effort last night, but came up just short. Now I don't have to worry about what's happening in the playoffs while I'm traveling. We'll be on our way to the airport at this time next week. And tomorrow is supposed to start the milder temps! Food: 8:15 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 20 Jan

January hasn't seemed to drag on so long this year, partly because of anticipation of our Spain adventure and partly because, with the exception of about a week, it has been mild and not very snowy. We've had enough winter weather so I don't feel like we'll miss out this year, but not so much that it seems to last forever. I'm glad it's going to moderate again next week so the homeless folk don't have so much bitter cold to contend with. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 109 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 19 Jan

Still 0° this morning, but hope for warming soon. Couldn't very well get away without any winter cold before we leave for Spain, so a week of it really isn't much to complain about. Next week is again predicted to be the mild 30s-40s we had previously. Hard to believe there's only slightly more than a week til we leave! Food: 8:10 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 18 Jan

Moved my knee weirdly last night getting up to go to the bathroom. CBD helped with sharp pain, but it still feels iffy enough this morning that I'm not going to chance capering around at Zumba. Might try to bring down the packing materials for the Christmas tree, but should ride exercise bike first. Going to try using Bob's old wireless headphones to listen to the music on the bike. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 17 Jan

Still below zero this morning, but supposed to get up to 11° later today. Hopefully steadily improving in temps. Body Pump and hair cut/color today. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate Malt-O-Meal, 1/2 c skim milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 16 Jan

Apparently I didn't have another lab draw scheduled for today after all, nothing further til October. Suits me fine. Still bitter cold this morning, but supposed to moderate again soon. Meeting the Bootstrap Buds at Legacy Family Restaurant at 10:30 today. Food: 8:15 am Malt-O-Meal chocolate cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 15 Jan

Laura is planning to drive up around 11ish and we will have a belated Christmas lunch with Michael and Taylor here today. Michael was excited to prepare one of his specialty dishes with homemade pasta, but he just texted that he threw his back out last night and can't cook. Need to make a cherry crisp and roast cauliflower anyway, but now we need to plan the whole meal from scratch. Oh well, at least we're all family. Just hope Michael can get his back healed up soon. Food: 8:00 am 92 g Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 14 Jan

The arctic cold has arrived. It's currently 4° per the weather station and I don't think it's going to warm up significantly today before plunging even further tonight. Well, it is Wisconsin in January, so it's to be expected eventually. Not sure if we'll walk to church this morning or not. Food: 8:00 am 82 g Costco cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 13 Jan

Snow is probably all down for now, so the cold weather will move in soon. Looks like 6-7" based on the accumulation on the porch railings. We braved the weather last night to go out to Point After for fish tacos and old fashioneds, but all the roads we were on had been thoroughly plowed so it wasn't at all difficult. Felt good to get out of the house for the only time that day. Food: 8:05 am 107 g Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 12 Jan

Another snow day that hasn't yet materialized. Schools were again closed in advance and people are preparing for a large snowfall, but as yet it's just flurrying. I decided not to go to the gym today, but I could have gone. Oh, I guess it's starting now as I just turned around to see snow falling. I have laundry to do today, so it won't be just a wasted day. Food: 8:10 am 85 g Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 11 Jan

Made a spontaneous trip down to Madison yesterday afternoon after my bone density/mammogram. We needed a few things and more snow is predicted for Friday. Bob didn't have any jobs scheduled in the afternoon, so it seemed wise to go while we had time. We got our errands done at Costco and TJs, and had a nice quattro formaggi pizza at Pizza Brutta and were home around 8 pm. We had a little more snow in the night, so it appears the current accumulation is around 4 inches, and we may get 4 more tomorrrow. Roads were clear, traffic was light yesterday. May not be the case on Saturday if we had waited. Food: 8:00 am 102 g Costco cinnamon roll, 104 g blackberries, coffee