Tues 17 Jun

The day is here! We drive down to Chicago around 11:30 to drop off the car at the Best Western and shuttle to the airport, and hopefully at 7:25 we are airborne for Scotland (via Iceland). Hopefully we have prepared everything that we need and things will go smoothly. May the Good Lord go with us as always and keep us safe on our journeys. Food: 8:15 am 54 g cherry kringle, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 16 Jun

Last minute preparations need to be completed today. Need to finalize transportation from Glasgow airport to Blair Atholl if we want to schedule a taxi instead of navigating complicated multiple other forms of transportation. Need to review my itinerary carefully as I was getting pretty burned out while finishing it yesterday. Might contact Pia and skip out on the Spanish group today to give myself time to finish up before OBT this afternoon. Food: 7:55 am 71 g cherry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 15 Jun

Happy Father's Day! Letting Bob choose a place to go out to celebrate today. He just ordered a new backpack, so I'm considering that his Father's Day gift. Should put together a trip itinerary today, and maybe set up an emergency pack for the carry-on in case the suitcase doesn't arrive with us. Food: 8:00 am 58 g cherry kringle, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 14 Jun

Wow, did I get chilly yesterday at the Marshfield Zoo for the WPR event. Fortunately, I decided at the last minute to add my Wisconsin sweatshirt over my heavier merino or it would have been worse. Just a drizzly, chilly day, but I had been comfortable in shorts and a tshirt a couple days prior. Food: 7:55 am 56 g cherry kringle, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 13 Jun

Friday the 13th! Today I have my first WPR Ambassador shift at Sounds Wild! at the Marshfield zoo. It's a pretty gray day with possible rain in the forecast, but we'll make do. Food: 7:55 am 78 g OH cherry kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 12 Jun

Finishing up the whiskey kringle today. It was really tasty, but I wouldn't spend that much money again now that I've had the opportunity to try it. Making some progress on packing, still more to go. Food: 8:00 am 57 g whiskey kringle, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 11 Jun

Nice pre-birthday celebration dinner with Michael and Taylor last night, even if Michael chose to do all the cooking. He made vegan gyros with cremini mushrooms and Beyond beef, grilled asparagus and a vegan chocolate cake. Yum! Just Body Pump today so I need to take time to get my packing for Scotland organized in case there are items I want to launder before I go. Might need to do some laundry tomorrow since I have the WPR gig at Marshfield zoo on Friday afternoon. Food: 8:00 am 67 g whisky kringle, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 10 Jun

Car goes in for an oil change this morning, massage this afternoon, dinner with Michael and Taylor this evening. DOMS from Walk Wisconsin almost completely gone, so I feel like I have more energy today. Food: 8:00 am 79 g whiskey kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 9 Jun

Nice drive down to Madison for some quick erranding. I had called ahead to TJs and had them put the last 10 bottles of the orange infused wine aside so I knew I would get some. It appears it was a short-term stock, so this may be it. Tried a new restaurant, the Sopra Family Bistro, an Albanian family, mostly breakfast but some lunch. I had a wild-caught salmon club sandwich with an outstanding cup of Albanian wedding soup. Bob had the Albanian breakfast platter with Albanian sausages. Food was delicious and we would definitely return. Food: 8:00 am 76 g whiskey kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 8 Jun

Walk Wisconsin half-marathon successfully under our belts! My feet look pretty good in the aftermath. I think the Xero hikers were perfect. When I started to feel my toes hitting the end, I concentrated on putting weight back in my heels and it eased up enough to not be uncomfortable. They had Polito's pizza for us at the end, and two narrow slices of cheese pizza with some Point root beer was enough for supper for me, along with one piece of Renard's string cheese with my Duo. Food: 7:55 am 104 g whiskey kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 7 Jun

Walk Wisconsin today! Cloudy day, but that's good for not getting overheated. 62° now, supposed to only be in the 70s, so won't be too hot. Will try to get to Mass tonight so we can drive down to Madison tomorrow. Food: 7:55 am 67 g whiskey kringle, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 6 Jun

Summer feels like it has come, temps in or near the 80s, sunshine at least part of the time. And only 11 days before we leave on vacation! Got my new merino things from Merino Tech yesterday and am very pleased with the quality, price and speed of delivery. Food: 8:00 am 60 g whiskey kringle, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 5 Jun

Whisky kringle for breakfast - yum! The whisky taste is subtle but delicious. Had a really nice English pub supper at Chef's Kitchen last night as a belated celebration of our anniversary. I had a charred steak and liver hot pocket, an Americanisation of a British meat pie but without veg. Food: 7:50 am 62 g whisky kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 4 Jun

Going out tonight to Chef's Kitchen to belatedly celebrate our anniversary at English Pub night. Also spent more than I care to think about to order a whiskey kringle from OH Bakery to be delivered today. Was supposed to get a massage today, but Marisha came down with a virus that's apparently making the rounds so she had to cancel. Hopefully we will not get it with Scotland coming up soon. Food: 8:00 am 1 1/3 c Vector cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 3 Jun

Yesterday was warm, but didn't seem as hot as expected. Our weather station said it was 87° in the late afternoon, but it just didn't feel quite that hot. Today it's supposed to rain/storm later and the temperature is supposed to drop down again. It's 72° in the morning and feels a bit muggy now. Food: 8:00 am Blueberry turnover, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 2 Jun

Nasty dream about bees crawling up the walls of the house. Ugh! Nice hike yesterday at Waupaca River Ice Age Trail followed by pizza at Wheel House. Food: 7:50 am 116 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 1 Jun

Warm weather, some sunshine out there. Need to get my herbs and tomatoes planted today. Been putting it off too long. Food: 8:00 am 122 g Costco cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 31 May

Last day of May, and sunny and somewhat warm in the mix. I cantor this evening and Bob ushers tomorrow, so we won't go to Mass together. Nothing else on the schedule for the weekend. Food: 7:55 am 158 g Costco cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 30 May

Quiet weekend ahead. I cantor on Saturday and Bob ushers on Sunday, otherwise nothing scheduled as May turns to June. Food: 7:55 am Trader Joe's cinnamon danish, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 29 May

Wow, the year is flying by yet again. Spent 10 hours yesterday with Leone while Mick went with friends to a Brewer game in Milwaukee. It was nice to spend time with her but she talked almost all day. I had expected her to doze in her chair more often, but she stayed awake and ate the tuna salad and pasta I had brought for her and seemed to enjoy the day. Food: 7:50 am Trader Joe's cinnamon danish coffee cake, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 28 May

Getting ready to spend the day with Leone today. Had to get up early and book it so I could make the food I'm taking for lunch and for her dinner tonight. Mick said she would eat Spaghettios, but I decided to make something more homemade so I cooked up some orzo pasta and added some jarred sauce and shaker parmesan cheese to make a homemade version. Made tuna salad and packed some bread for lunch and some applesauce cups. Also taking some apricots for me and a bottle of vitarain water. And some of the brownie cookies. Food: 7:25 am Blueberry turnover, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 27 May

Nice Memorial Day weekend with good weather, lunch with Laura on Saturday, Green Circle Paper Mill trail on Sunday, Rib on Monday. Tomorrow I'll spend the entire day with Leone while Mick goes with friends to Milwaukee for a Brewers game. He called this morning and we decided I'd bring tuna salad for our lunch and Spaghettios for her dinner, but I think I'll make homemade orzo pasta with sauce and cheese that I can reheat intead of buying a can of Spaghettios. Should be somewhat more nutritious that way. Probably won't get much exercise even if I can step outside for short walks from time to time. Food: 8:25 am Trader Joe's cinnamon danish coffee cake, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 26 May

Beautiful sunny day for Memorial Day. Campers had a good weather weekend. Tonight we have a potluck for Natasha at HSP; should be a good group. Food: 8:00 am Trader Joe's cinnamon danish, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 24 May

Memorial Day weekend is here. Going down to lunch with Laura today, first time seeing her since her birthday. Will take her the mobile cat with rainbow glass strips and hope she likes it as much as I do. Food: 7:55 am Cherry turnover, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 23 May

Pastor Tim's last board meeting yesterday. Jane is resuming the presidency of OBT for now since no one else would step up. Cindy is going to be vice president with the understanding that in one year, she will assume the presidency for a one-year term and someone else will step in as vice-president. Gregg came to the meeting and updated us on the progress of Partnering Together, a venture we hope to be a firm part of in the future as they are trying to realize the joint services/day shelter venture. Food: 8:00 am Cherry turnover, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 22 May

60 years since Mark drowned at Iverson. Amazing it's been that long. RIP, bro. Busy day today - dentist, Bootstrap, and board meeting. Going to try to bake some cookies for the meeting since it's Tim's last time and get my Duo done this morning if possible. OBT is doing a yoga fundraiser at Great Northern tonight. I had thought to go after the board meeting, but it just makes the day too full. Getting old, I guess. Food: 8:00 am 92 g Costco morning bun, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 21 May

Another rainy day today, then hopefully done for awhile. Get my knees rechecked this afternoon, so I'll see what difference a year and a half has made. Food: 7:55 am 93 g Costco morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 20 May

Cool, cloudy, and probably rainy today. We used up our beautiful weather last week in Door Co, but what better time to use it. Relaxation day today, then busier days over the next couple of days. Food: 7:55 am 95 g Costco morning bun, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 19 May

Really lovely week in Door County with beautiful weather allowing for long hikes every day, a wide variety of restaurants for breakfasts and lunches, then relaxing in the evenings in the room with cheese and crackers, meat spread, and Seaquist pie options. Actually finished a bottle of apple/cherry Island Cider. A little unexpected excitement when we got up on Friday morning after a big thunderstorm to find there was no water in the room. Something had broken a valve in their pump and flooded the crawlspace with water while shutting down water to the room. Had to go to breakfast with no shower, no in-room coffee, and not even brushing our teeth! We called Ron and Mary at home and he was able to come in and work hard to get a plumber to come, but by mid-afternoon they had the water back in the rooms. Food: 8:00 am 96 g Costco morning bun, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 11 May

Happy Mother's Day. Got a text bright and early from Laura to wish me a HMD. Had a very nice evening at the dinner dance last night after quite a full day with the Cultural Fest, farmer's market, and dropping off the bundt cake for Leone. Heading up to Door Co today, with dinner reservations at Lure where my meal is free with Bob's. Food: 8:15 am 172 g sourdough cinnamon roll, 153 g strawberries, coffee

Sat 10 May

Lovely sunny day again, plenty on the agenda. Walk to Farmer's Market, Cultural Fest, take Mother's Day cake to Leone, and finish with dinner/dance with Dr. Numsen and friend. Food: 9:10 am 225 g sourdough cinnamon bun, 102 g strawberries, 42 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 9 May

Happy Birthday, Catherine! Looks to be a sunshiny day, hopefully slightly warmer. Coffee with the Bootstrap Buds this morning, so skipping Body Pump. Seems we will not be able to see Axel again before he returns to Indonesia on Tuesday. Food: 8:00 am Costco almond danish, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 8 May

Feels cooler this morning after a warm day Tuesday followed by a warm night. Yesterday was in-between, but last night felt quite cool. Not cold, but just crisply cool. Feels good to wear a sweatshirt this morning. Food: 7:55 am 145 g Costco almond danish, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 7 May

Looking forward to a less busy day today, just Body Pump and possibly wash towels. Yesterday was hectic in the afternoon with two meetings, the first of which ran longer than expected and caused a rush to get to the second. Food: 7:55 am 124 g Costco lemon raspberry muffin, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 6 May

Anything but a relaxing Tuesday today. Massage at 1 (okay, that will be relaxing!), Meeting with Pia and UWSP people at 3:45 regarding a new initiative she has roped me into to help kids who age out of foster care to have a bridge before starting at university, and another Sanctuary segment at 6:30 (which I have not yet prepared for). Whew! Food: 8:00 am 127 g Costco lemon raspberry muffin, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 5 May

Cinco de Mayo. Heading into a spate of nicer weather, no rain in the forecast and warmer temps with some sun. I'm ready for it. Food: 7:55 am Costco almond danish, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 4 May

May the Fourth be with you. Michael stopped over for his Costco items this morning, so had a chance to show him the new washer/dryer and visit a bit. Since I cantored last night and today is predicted to be fairly warm and sunny, we'll try another wildflower hike at the Ice Age Trail up north later today. Food: 8:15 23 g Costco lemon raspberry muffin, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 3 May

Chilly, damp walk to Farmer's Market but were able to score some plants from Henry as well as a few ginger cookies from his wife. Need to do laundry today since we took the day after my eye exam to go to Madison yesterday. Got some herb plants also at TJs, along with regular erranding. Had lunch at La Brioche. Food: 9:00 am 120 g Costco lemon raspberry muffin, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 2 May

Going to Madison for erranding today on Friday instead of waiting for the weekend as Bob doesn't have work obligations today and I cantor at 5 pm tomorrow so we'd have to rush to get back in time. Hoping the tomato plants will be available at Coscto. Next week is forecast to be warmer and we have the little outdoor greenhouse we bought at Aldi to protect them if the nights do get cold. Food: 8:05 am 92 g pecan kringle, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 1 May

Today I can apply for my Social Security. Guess I'm officially old. More rain again today, just what we no longer need for awhile. Food: 7:55 am 67 g pecan kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 30 Apr

Grey day, not overly cold but not overly warm either. Body Pump today, have to miss it on Friday for an eye appointment. Food: 8:00 am 111 g chocolate concha, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 28 Apr

Loud thunder in the night, possible strong storms through the day today. Just started some more rain, but might have been a spotty shower. Hiked at the little Ice Age trail on the Waupaca River yesterday followed by pizza at Wheel House. Food: 7:55 am 156 g sourdugh cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 27 Apr

Lovely day yesterday and we made good use of it with a great hike at the Ice Age Trail segment at Aniwa. Hepatica were out in force in white, purple, and pink, and there were a tiny scattering of bloodroot and just-starting-to-blossom Dutchmen's Breeches. Stopped at Era Pancake House for dinner on the way home. Had smoked salmon benedict with fruit cup. Food: 8:00 am 152 g sourdough cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 26 Apr

Couldn't go celebrate daughter's birthday as she's out of town all weekend. Last Farmer's Market indoors this weekend; next weekend back to the square. Might try to hike the Ice Age Trail today if Bob will leave the house. Food: 8:55 am 132 g blueberry sourdough sweet bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 25 Apr

I get to use my new washing machine today after Body Pump. Delivery and installation went very smoothly. Will need to train myself to remember not to head down the stairs with my laundry automatically. Will need to develop new routines for setting up and folding laundry in the bedroom now. Food: 8:00 am 112 g crueller, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 24 Apr

Very nice dinner with Michael and Taylor post-Easter last night. Michael made his faux scallops from king mushrooms and I made cauliflower cheese and baked bean casserole. Michael made a faux cheesecake for dessert with cashews and home-grown raspberry topping. Learned yesterday that Pia will be leaving the social justice coordinator position. Sounds like she was a bit too enthusiastic in her pursuits of social justice for the powers that be in the parish. That's a shame as I think we needed her. Food: 7:55 am 78 g pecan kringle, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 23 Apr

Supposed to get a little warmer today, would be nice. Doing post-Easter dinner with Michael and Taylor tonight at their house. Need to review the recipes for my contributions so I know what I'm doing. Food: 8:00 am 112 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 22 Apr

Laura turns 40 today! Her phone wouldn't let me leave a message to sing Hippo Birdie Two Ewes, so I had to settle for a birthday text. She seems to be in a pretty good place in her life at 40. Hope she thinks so. Food: 8:05 am 122 g raspberry paczki, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 21 Apr

We had a good Easter with 8 am Mass followed by an excellent brunch of croissant beignets with excellent whipped cream, cream cheese and Nutella dips, and fig, brie, and ham crepes for me and smoked salmon avocado toast for Bob. Lamb shanks for dinner completed a culinary feast to celebrate the Resurrection. Pope Francis left us to join the Resurrected Christ. Please, Lord, give us another wise soul to lead us through this troubled time. Food: 8:00 am 128 g Bavarian creme paczki, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 20 Apr

Happy Easter! And for Michael, happy 4/20. Am cantoring for 8 am Easter Mass today, so hurrying through breakfast. Will go to one of the Rib Mountain breakfast restaurants for brunch after church. Food: 6:25 am 178 g raspberry filled paczki, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 19 Apr

Chilly walk to Farmer's Market this morning to return egg cartons and pick up some paczki and chocolate sugar cookies. March at the Post Office at 11 again today. Food: 9:00 am 128 g bavarian creme filled paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 18 Apr

Good Friday. Enjoyed singing with the group for Holy Thursday last night, and enjoyed chatting with Lisa at the dinner. It's nice to see parishioners mixing with the Place of Peace folks, but I wish more parishioners would join us. Food: 7:55 am 122 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 17 Apr

Holy Thursday. I will sing with the group for the service tonight. One of the last times Natasha leads us as she's stepping down after Easter. Food: 8:00 am 138 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 16 Apr

Body Pump this morning, I think with Tom again, and then drive to Marshfield to give blood and urine for the cancer study. Mick called to say he is going to a concert in Milwaukee Sunday evening and his friend will be with Leone, but he asked me to be the backup. Food: 8:00 am 127 g Costco cinnamon roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 15 Apr

We're getting tax refunds this year! Somewhere around $3000, which will make a nice dent in a couple of large credit card bills coming in with travel and wash machine purchases. I feel decadent because I opted to skip a shower this morning. I get my hair colored and cut at 1:30 and she washes my hair thoroughly then and it just isn't hot enough to get sweaty so I think I'm fine. Food: 7:40 am 92 g maple pecan scone, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 14 Apr

Sunny day, supposed to be fairly warm. Nice beginning to Holy Week. Food: 8:10 am 132 g maple pecan scone, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 13 Apr

Nice day in Madison yesterday. Laura was busy, so just dropped off her Easter basket/bag. Picked Axel up at a park in Fitchburg where he had attended a potluck picnic for Indonesian students. He hasn't personally known any students whose visas have been revoked, but I did suggest to him that he make a plan B if things in our government get much worse when he is ready to return for fall semester. He might want to explore good schools in Europe. He said he likes the city of Amsterdam, so he might check that out. Food: 8:00 am 133 g raspberry filled paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 12 Apr

Truly lovely morning to walk to the Farmer's Market. Will go to Heather's surprise party around 10:15, then drive down to Madison later for errands and meeting with Axel. Laura is just too wiped out to meet, but we'll drop off an Easter basket for her. Food: 9:00 am 173 g Bavarian creme paczki, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 11 Apr

Some sun, supposed to be a warmer weekend. Will go to Heather's surprise party at 10ish tomorrow at Springville, then we'll head down to Madison for erranding and hopefully seeing Laura and Axel. Maybe shrimp tonight. Food: 8:00 am 167 g espresso chip scone, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 10 Apr

Kind of a grey day today, but hopefully getting a tad warmer, at least by the weekend. HSP committee meeting tonight. Food: 8:00 am 137 g vanilla lavender scone, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 9 Apr

Had a lovely time visiting with Heather last night at PJs. We stayed 2 1/2 hours! Our waitress was great so I left her a generous tip. No Body Pump today, just Hard Core Strength which I prefer not to do, so home all day today. Food: 8:05 am 137 g blueberry lavender scone, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 8 Apr

Sunshiny day, dinner tonight with Heather to celebrate her 50th. Got to run out to get a card today, Food: 7:55 am 141 g blackberry lavender scone, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 7 Apr

Surpsrise! It's snowing. Not in the predictions at all, but fluffy, white flakes are falling all the same and sticking to roofs. Food: 8:00 am 173 g blackberry lavender scone, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 6 Apr

Sunny morning, supposed to get to around 50° today. I cantor at 10:30 with an instrumentalist, so they ask that I get there early to practice together. Food: 8:00 am 137 g blueberry lemon scone, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 5 Apr

Breezy walk to Farmer's Market. Got several new varieties of scones and hot cross buns! The bun lady will be sharing David's spot at the summer market so we'll have some bakery even though the HH people will not be here. Going to try to make it to the 11 am protest in front of the post office today. Food: 9:05 am 137 g espresso chip scone, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 4 Apr

Sun is shining, still pretty cool. Pat Hilpert's funeral is this morning after Body Pump. Will make laundry a bit delayed in the day today. Food: 7:55 am 128 g Costco cinnamon roll, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 3 Apr

Grey and windy day today. Meeting with Pia via phone meet this morning so I don't have to go out until Bootstrap. Unexpected dinner at El Mezcal last night was fun. Food: 7:55 am 131 g Costco cinnamon roll, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 2 Apr

Crawford won!!! Elon Musk was not able to buy Wisconsin. A hopeful first step for those who want to speak out to preserve democracy. Food: 7:55 am 118 g Costco cinnamon roll, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 1 Apr

Sunshine today, maybe a tad warmer, with possible more snow tonight. April Fool's Day. Food: 8:00 am 121 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 31 Mar

Dodged a bullet on the weather. Didn't get the thick ice topped with snow that was predicted, just a little ice that sounds crunchy under passsing car wheels so hopefully not slick. Sun is shining, so perhaps temps will be enough to melt what is on the ground, though it's only 25° now. No cancellations of schools (or OBT). Food: 8:00 am 91 g raspberry sourdough paczki, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 30 Mar

Rain turning to ice outside, with more (and possibly worse) to come later today. Won't chance walking to church on slippery stuff. Will likely stay in after church for remainder of the day. Hopefully not enough ice to take down power lines, though they're warning of the possibility especially north of us where the weather is worse. Many churches Wausau and north have cancelled Masses today. Food: 8:00 am 68 g chocolate filled paczki, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 29 Mar

Thunderstorms overnight, but the rain had stopped by morning so we were able to walk to the Farmer's Market. No hot cross buns, but we did get donuts, lamb shanks, cupcakes, scones, and shiitake mushrooms. Food: 9:15 am 83 g bavarian creme paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 28 Mar

It's Friday, but this week feels off because of spending Tues/Wed in Madison. Going to Body Pump today as Nicole is back. Once I'm doing laundry, it will likely feel like Friday again. Really nice dinner at Michael and Taylor's yesterday. Veggie lo mein and pan fried tofu cubes. Food: 7:50 am 51 g sourdough donut, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 27 Mar

Spent the last two days with the daughter in Madison while Bob installed her in-sink dishwasher. Got some cat lap time, some nice walks on snow-free sidewalks in the sunshine, a few errands run. Back home now to remainder of snow on the ground. Got a contact from Bev with proofs of the sign and it looks great! Now I just need to contact the city and get approval. Food: 8:05 am 82 g maple glazed sourdough donut, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 25 Mar

Heading down to Madison for a couple of days so Bob can install Laura's N'Sync dishwasher. We will stay at an Americinn and have a good Italian dinner at Nonno's. Laura has a lifting competition this weekend and needs to eat her regimen and work out this evening. Food: 7:00 am 122 g raspberry paczki, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 24 Mar

We got a big March snow yesterday, even though they thought we'd be a little outside the affected area. I would estimate we got 5-6" of wet stuff. Convenient that it fell on a Sunday (when we'd been to church on Saturday night) and the day before the schools are on spring break. I didn't go outside at all yesterday, and Bob just went out to shovel/snowblow. OBT today, but I'll likely walk. Food: 8:00 am 106 g raspberry baked paczki, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 22 Mar

Chilly walk to the Farmer's Market for sourdough donuts, baked instead of fried this time, and eggs (and bacon). Food: 8:55 am 92 g baked sourdough maple glazed donut, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 21 Mar

Another week flown past. Kind of excited because I booked our Scotland flights on Icelandair and arranged for a 4-day stopover in Iceland while we don't have to pay anything extra for airfare. Secured a VRBO in Iceland for less than the hotel prices and set up a rental car. Only remaining tasks are the park-and-fly and the Glasgow hotels. Food: 7:50 am 68 g pecan kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 20 Mar

Snow on the ground again, actually looks very white and pretty. Bootstrap this afternoon, OBT board meeting tonight. Food: 7:50 am 76 g pecan kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 19 Mar

Mick's birthday, Val's birthday. Best wishes to both. Winter storm due to blow in today, but we're on the fringes so we should only see a couple of inches. More on the weekend, however. Food: 7:55 am 73 g pecan kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 18 Mar

Expecting our annual review phone call from Fisher Investments today. Hopefully can ask some questions about Social Security and required disbursements as well as reviewing the status of our finances. Food: 7:55 am 106 g raspberry paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 17 Mar

Happy St Patrick's Day! Dug in my closet and found the green Fair Isle sweater that Laura had knit and given to me some time back. It is a little short in the torso for her, but fine for me. OBT for the first time in our new digs this afternoon. Will make corned beef and cabbage in the crock pot for dinner to enjoy with Guinness and Bob's birthday cake. Food: 7:55 am 102 g sourdough donut, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 16 Mar

Bob's birthday! Yesterday we did the Farmer's Market in the morning for hot cross buns, sourdough donuts, and eggs. After breakfast, headed to Madison to lunch with Hobbes at Jacknife and errand with Axel. Had pizza at Lombardino's with Axel before heading home. Food: 7:55 am Bavarian creme paczki, 108 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 15 Mar

Beware the Ides of March! Hot cross buns at the market from David's recipe! And sourdough donuts and paczki from the other baker. And a dozen eggs from Liberation, since Maple Bee was again sold out. We preordered 2 dozen from Maple Bee for next week, so with the new dozen from Liberation, I decided to make hard boiled eggs again for Bob from the 7 remaining eggs in the fridge. Food: 9:00 am Hot cross bun, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 14 Mar

Still have a cold, but slept a little better last night. Hoping it will subside soon. Body Pump, laundry, and Pia's meeting today. Food: 7:55 am 90 g pecan kringle, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 14 Mar

Yep, it's definitely a cold. Took Lorazepam last night which helped somewhat but it will have to run its course, I suppose. Not sleeping so well doesn't help much. Food: 7:55 am 98 g pecan kringle, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 12 Mar

I do believe this is a cold as opposed to spring allergies, but so far not as bad as I had it in Spain. I remain hopeful. Helping to move OBT across the street to our new temporary digs today. Food: 7:50 am 88 g sourdough donut, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 11 Mar

Thought I was being bothered by spring allergies yesterday when I started sneezing a lot, but excessive runny nose that started in the night makes me worry a bit that I'm getting back what I had in Spain. We shall see. WPR music trivia tonight at Great Northern. Food: 8:00 am Costco almond croissant, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 10 Mar

Should be a nice, warm day today. Meeting the Bootstrap Buds for coffee this morning at the Vault. Pia is tagging along to OBT today, so I have to take the car to pick her up. Food: 7:55 am 128 g raspberry sourdough paczki, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 9 Mar

Trying a ponczka from the new baker from the market. Made with sourdough and hefty, raspberry filled. So far, so good. Just popped in to the bookstore last night to leave a $100 check for OBT with them and to thank them for doing the benefit. Food: 8:00 am 165 g raspberry sourdough ponczka, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 8 Mar

Walked to the Farmer's Market hoping for eggs and David's recipe hot cross buns and got neither. The new baker who may have been planning to do the hot cross buns was still out sick and the egg people were sold out. There was a different baker set up by the entrance, so we got sourdough raspberry paczki, Bavarian creme paczki, and donuts. And a walk. Food: 9:05 am Bavarian creme paczki, 98 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 7 Mar

Body Pump and laundry today. It's Lent, so no meat. Otherwise, a pretty free day. Food: 7:55 am 65 g prune ponczka, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 6 Mar

Sun is back today, snow is done. It wasn't as bad as they predicted for accumulation, but it was windy and blowing around most of the day. Expecting somewhat warmer weather for at least a few days now. Food: 8:00 am Costco almond croissant, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 5 Mar

Ash Wednesday. Cantor at noon Mass today with Deb McComas. Need to find some time to review the music as yesterday was just too busy. Snowing today, we'll see how much we get. Last prediction was 3.5 in. Food: 7:50 am 65 g prune ponczka, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 4 Mar

Extremely busy day today! Mammogram this morning, fireplace comes to meet (with Bob) around 10, haircut/color at 1, Mardi Gras dinner at Chef's Kitchen at 4:45, and Sanctuary at 6:30. Yikes! Food: 8:00 am Costco almond croissant, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 3 Mar

Feels like we're really home once we start a full week of more normal schedule. Back to OBT today, one of the last days in the old digs before we move across the street next week Wednesday. Food: 8:00 am Small 68 g grocery store prune ponczka, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 2 Mar

Concert last night was excellent! Saw Fr. Tom, Leo and Janet, Dan Larson and Sherri. Very talented group of musicians, nice varied program. Food: 8:00 am Plum paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 1 Mar

Warming shelter went well last night. Good to meet the people who run it and see what a well-oiled operation it is. Spent time chatting with people I knew from OBT and came home at 9:30 pm and straight to bed. Tonight, St Martin in the Fields at the Grand Theater! Food: 7:55 am Large Polish filled pastry, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 28 Feb

Economic boycott day. Already forgot and looked at one ad/site but remembered and closed it out. Hard habit to break. Feeling slightly less sore today so will probably try Body Pump again, hoping not to repeat the extreme stiffness. Food: 8:05 am Custard filled Polish donut, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 27 Feb

My muscles are definitely feeling the aftermath of yesterday's Body Pump, even with a massage afterward. Went to do my morning stretches before getting out of bed and could scarcely bend my legs up or stretch. Tried some of the Aches and Pains oil on my quads, so we'll see if that helps. Food: 7:55 am 102 g black currant paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 26 Feb

Home again, home again, riggety jig! Feels good to be back home, even though the time in Spain was wonderful. No major glitches this time. The worst was unfounded worry that our luggage was lost on the trip out due to misinterpretation of the Apple AirTag data. Lots of good hiking. We were sick for a few days early on, mostly respiratory, but also loss of appetite which caused my scale to go down to 138 and stay there for quite a while. Food: 7:50 am 98 g apricot paczki, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 25 Jan

Today's the day - we leave for our month in Spain. Hopefully we've remembered all the important details. God be with us, and with those who we leave at home. Food: 8:25 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 96 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 24 Jan

Last full day at home, need to plan my day out for tomorrow, arrange the shuttle with the hotel, decide where we will go in Chicago for Mass. Remembered my compression socks this morning, so I'll put them in my carry-on to put on before the flight. Food: 8:10 am TJs cocoa sea salt instant oatmeal, 94 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 23 Jan

Spain is encroaching quickly, last minute prep must be completed soon. Bootstrap this morning, haircut and laundry tomorrow are the last of the regular home chores. Food: 8:10 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 94 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 22 Jan

A relief to be above zero this morning at 7°. Hopefully we won't see any more frigid temps before we leave. Michael and Taylor are both home sick, and they think it's the norovirus, probably contracted at their get-together with Taylor's family last weekend. Michael spent the day yesterday throwing up and diarrhea, and Taylor worked though she was starting to feel awful so I expect she has a day like that ahead of her today. Food: 8:05 am 3/4 c TJs Maple Pecan cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 21 Jan

Bitterly cold morning, nearly -20°. Hope everyone is safe. Schools are canceled and people will hopefully be staying in wherever they can. I'm so grateful that we have a cozy house with heat, and if I'm chilly, I use my neck heating pad with a blanket in my lap. Hygge! Food: 8:10 am Trader Joe's cocoa sea salt instant oatmeal, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 20 Jan

Temps this morning at -14°. Doesn't appear that the Point schools are closing today, though many area schools are, so we likely won't close OBT this afternoon. I will break down and drive, though. Food: 8:00 am 3/4 c Trader Joe's Maple Crunch cereal, 1/2 c skim milk, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 19 Jan

Back down to the deep freeze -9° this morning. May allow Bob to talk me out of walking to church this morning. Might even have to break down and drive to OBT tomorrow afternoon as it's not expected to improve for several days. Food: 7:55 am 68 g marzipan stollen, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 18 Jan

Only one more week before we leave for our month in Spain. It has been creeping up slowly, and now the sprint is on. New smart watch finally arrived yesterday and I'm wearing both the new watch and the Fitbit together for awhile to compare. Also need to see if the new watch can be paired with Noom. Had a very tasty fish/shrimp fry at the Sunflower Cafe, with the familiar servers from Rock N Roll whom we have known for years. Food: 8:00 am 68 g marzipan stollen, 96 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 17 Jan

An anomalous warm day today, possibly hitting 40°! Unfortunately, it is just for today, but I'll try to make the most of it and even get in a walk to the library along with laundry and Body Pump.\ Food: 8:00 am 73 g marzipan stollen, 96 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 16 Jan

First time ever I think that I ran my Fitbit completely out of juice. It didn't sound the alarm and wouldn't light up at all, so I came down to put it on the charger and it showed 1% charge, but now I wiggled it and it shows 80% which is more in keeping with what I would have expected. Took it off and got it to come on, but put the charger on again and it says 23%. Think I'll let it sit on the charger a few minutes before going back upstairs for my morning ablutions. Got the Fitbit charged to about 50% before my shower, saying 70% now after breakfast, so who knows? No data from sleep, but I guess that's to be expected since it was completely off this morning. I'll have to remember to clean the contacts before we go to Spain and keep it well-charged. Food: 8:25 am 78 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 15 Jan

Yet another frigid morning. Massage this afternoon. Fireplace and hot tub still kaputt. Oh, my! Food: 8:00 am 74 g cinnamon streusel coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 14 Jan

Another bitter cold, below zero morning, and today the fireplace isn't working and the hot tub heater stopped heating. Can't feel too troubled since we still have a comfortable house with a working furnace, and I know there are many who are struggling to find a warm place to sleep. Food: 7:55 am 134 g cinnamon crumb coffee cake, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 13 Jan

Really nice time with Laura and Michael yesterday, celebrating a belated Christmas together. Laura made me a beautiful knitted scarf since I had requested one. She appeared to like her gifts and enjoyed spending family time together. Michael threw out his back again and came over just to chat, but stayed quite awhile. The kids actually liked the Celebration beer, so divided it between themselves and took it home. Food: 7:55 am 87 g Costco chocolate orange loaf, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 12 Jan

Christmas with the kids today. Laura is driving up, expected after 2 pm. Michael will come over even though Taylor will be working. I will make vegan wild rice mushroom soup and a veggie pie and hopefully Michael will bring a dessert. I have lots of non-vegan dessert but he would make something delicious. Food: 7:55 am 77 g Costco chocolate orange loaf, 103 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 11 Jan

Only 2 weeks til we leave, suddently it's approaching like a freight train. Will be fun to be back now that it's a familiar area. Cantor at 5 today, tomorrow hopefully see the daughter for Christmas festivities. Food: 8:00 am 94 g Costco chocolate orange loaf, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 10 Jan

Starting to feel the need to begin the packing process for Spain as we leave two weeks from tomorrow. Michael and Taylor stopped over after work yesterday and she seemed to like her gifts, though we all acknowledged that the Harry Potter monopoly was not what you would have expected. She did note, though, that it is compact enough to take with when they travel. Food: 8:05 am 148 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 9 Jan

National day of mourning as they lay Jimmy Carter to rest today. What a wonderful man he was, the like of which we haven't seen again. May he rest in peace and send down blessings on our country which will be greatly needed. Food: 7:55 am 96 g Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 8 Jan

Chilly morning at 10°, warming into the 20s later hopefully. Nothing but Body Pump on the schedule today. Sanctuary went well last night. Food: 8:00 am 115 g Costco cinnamon roll, 105 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 7 Jan

Sanctuary tonight, so must study today. Already getting a little tired of the cold weather, and it hasn't even been January bad too much. Am becoming a wuss as I get older, I guess. Food: 7:55 am 151 g Costco cinnamon roll, 106 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 6 Jan

Taylor's birthday! And back into normal, non-holiday weeks. Maybe Laura will drive up on Sunday and we'll do vegan dinner with Michael and give Laura her Christmas gifts, and if she's too tired to drive up, we'll drive down there with her gifts and take her out to eat if she will. Food: 8:00 am 102 g Costco cinnamon roll, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 5 Jan

In three weeks, we'll be on a plane for Spain, and I'm sure it will go by fairly quickly. Made the Park N Fly reservation on Friday. so that's set. Had a very nice overnight at St Brendan's in Green Bay yesterday. Food: 8:00 am 196 g Chocolate cream cronut, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 3 Jan

Still feeling discombobulated with the days of the week with holidays falling on subsequent Wednesdays. Hopefully all will settle back to normalcy next week. Food: 8:00 am 91 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 2 Jan

Another year is underway! Let's hope we fill it with good things for friends and family. Bootstrap this afternoon, then no other commitments for awhile. Food: 8:05 am 99 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 1 Jan 2025

Another New Year to thank the Lord for our blessings. Had a beer and a pizza at PJs after church last night, and went to bed at my normal time. No need to party or see in the new year at midnight. Figured out that this was the 44th new year greeted in my bed here at 1801 Center St. Food: 8:05 am 84 g Costco morning bun, 104 g blackberries, coffee