On The Road Again

Even though it snowed last night then had some freezing rain, I took off for the "north" at 10:30 a.m. and met my cousin, Karen, in Imlay City. She left her car and we traveled to Brown City and shopped at the Pineberry Shoppe. I really liked this store when I was there about a month ago. The owner, Linda, recommended a couple more stores in Marlette so after we were finished with her store we headed even farther north about 12 miles to Home Again Antiques, Maggie's and a carry out Chinese lunch in the van. 

Heading south we stopped at the Lavender Farm then Backyard Creations in Imlay City before I dropped Karen off to get her car. On my way home I stopped at Frontier Town's Artisan Store and Bake My Day.  I ordered 3 Anio's wraps from Anio's, picked up the mail and was finally in the driveway at 5:10 p.m. 

A VERY NICE DAY.

Rachel was with Jessie today since Jon was working. They played a new game Jessie got for Christmas called Who Pooped (a very appropriate game for Jess.) Theyalso baked chocolate chip cookies (as if we needed more cookies in the house!) made a stained glass sticker craft and watched a DVD. Jessie was happy that lunch was left over pizza from last night's dinner. 

I am ready to sit on the couch and put my feet up!

Monday and Tuesday

Yesterday (Monday) was Jon's 4th day off in a row. He needed these days off and I needed him to take me to the hospital to get a cervical MRI. The back doctor thinks that the pain I have in my upper back is from my neck and recommended a shot in my neck. However, they can't do a shot unless I have an MRI. Since I can't lay still because of pain, I have to have anesthesia. I had to be there at 8:00, my MRI was scheduled for 9:00 and I think it began around 9:30. I felt pretty good when I woke up and not in much pain. Jon fixed me scrambled eggs when we got home and then it hit. I was so tired. Besides only getting about 3 hours of sleep the night before, the anesthesia effect hit. I went upstairs and slept for almost 3 hours. However, I wasn't much better when I got up and I wasn't capable of fixing dinner. Louie's pizza and salad was our dinner. Jessie kept saying, "Mmmmm"  "Mmmmmm". She doesn't care if I cook or not. Pizza is fine for her.

I felt a little more awake today (Tuesday) and did a couple loads of wash before I went and visited Lois and Ruth. No movie today. We just talked. 

Jane took Jessie swimming. They both enjoy this time at the pool. They had a Wendy's drive-thru lunch and ate with the goats! Apples 2 Apples was the game of the day plus Clack. 

I wanted to remember this picture and I haven't put a picture in my blog in a couple days. So ... Jessie made a gingerbread house earlier this month so I put it on our small table that usually is in front of the windows and put a winter scene around it. I think it looks pretty nice.

Saturday and Sunday

Yesterday (Saturday) I didn't feel like doing much. A couple loads of wash, made meals, watched 1 1/2 movies and read half of a book. That's it! As always, Jess was on her iPad, as well as Jon. He really needed these past days off. He's beginning to look more like himself.

Today (Sunday) began with breakfast watching church at Jessie's insistence. Our church's audio wasn't the best so I switched to Dr. David Jeremiah's church service. Then Jessie got bored with him and kept talking. It wasn't a very productive hour service for me. Oh, well.

Jon needed to go to work and have his weekly COVID test so Jess and I went along. After the test we got our lunch at Wendy's drive thru and "ate with the goats" - again. It was so funny this morning. I was getting ready in the bathroom, Jessie ran down the hall to the bathroom (naked!) and grabbed her bra. (She only wears it when she goes out!) I said, "Where do you think you're going?" "Wendy's!" she replied. So, that's what we did. We have been in the house for too many days. 

Jon cleaned up his office and work table in the laundry room. Jessie was on her iPad. I watched a movie then we had left-overs for dinner. I've watched more movies this month that I have all year! Guess I'll finish my book tonight.

Christmas Day

The day began earlier than usual. Jess was up about 7:30 waiting to go downstairs. She had the hallway light on and was sitting at the top of the stairs waiting for us to move the gate so we could come downstairs.

Lois was to arrive by 8:30 and we just couldn't keep Jessie that long without opening presents, so we let her open her stocking gifts from Santa (he only fills stockings for adults - no presents). 

She was more than ready to open presents when Lois arrived.

Jon and his stocking presents.

Me and my stocking.

Lois and her flashing necklace.

Jess definitely got her "ten presents".

Breakfast.

After breakfast we face timed Diane and Randie while we opened their presents that they dropped off on Wednesday and they opened ours. It went better than I expected and was fun.

Santa brought us some DVD's so after a nice Christmas dinner Lois, Jon and I watched MULAN. It was really good.

Ruth picked up Lois around 5:30 and Jon went back to his iPad and Jess on hers and I on mine!

We just didn't do anything else. For one, I was just too tired.

I'm having trouble getting these pictures the right size and the text next to them. It doesn't want to do what I want. Anyway, here's our Christmas picture for this year:

Plus, here's a Christmas card we had made this year ...

 

Christmas Eve

Unfortunately, today was just like most days. Filled with laundry, preparing breakfast foods for tomorrow morning, preparing a special dinner and caring for Jessie. We did take time out and watched our church's Christmas Eve service at 1:00 p.m. 

Jon worked and was even home 15 minutes early! I talked to Chris earlier today and asked her if she'd like to come over after she worked at church for the services. She arrived just as I was putting dinner on the table: duck, cheesy potatoes and corn (fresh off the cob frozen). It was nice to have company on this special evening.

Jessie was ready for bed around 7:30 and I managed to keep her up until 8:30. She helped me straighten up the family room, put out the stockings (I forgot to hang them earlier in the week!), and get cookies and milk out for Santa. As soon as we are sure Jessie is SOUND asleep, Jon and I will bring down the presents and put them under the tree. Lois will be here in the morning at 8:30 a.m., so I want everything ready by then. 

The tree pic was taken a little after 10:00. About an hour earlier than normal. 

Jessie made sure there was cookies and milk for Santa.

 

Another Christmas Party

I ordered breakfast from Leo's and Jennifer picked it up and brought it home. Jess, Jen and I celebrated Christmas with this special breakfast then we opened presents. 

As you can see from the picture, Jessie really liked the poop napkins and plates Jen gave her! Jessie and her love of the poop imogie. It's beyond me, that's for sure!

My present is a wreath with felt flowers made by Jessie and Jennifer. It is really nice! They did a good job.

Around 11:30 I went and spent the afternoon with Lois and Ruth. They ordered Louie's Pizza for lunch and we watched a Hallmark movie.

Diane and Randie came around 5:00 to deliver our presents and we gave them ours. That was really hard. I had hoped they would come and open gifts on the back porch. We'd wear coats and masks. Oh, well. At least we got to see each other. We'll open presents on Christmas Day and see each other with Face Time. 

This evening has brought me to (almost) tears. First Jessie was singing Christmas carols and she gets very emotional when she sings O Holy Night (my favorite song!). She begins to cry but then tries not to and keeps singing.

Later this evening she wanted to go to bed early after she put Christmas cookies and milk out for Santa. She did cry and get pretty upset when I reminded her she had one more day to go before we could do that. So, she fell asleep on the couch instead.

She's been emotional these past several days. First I know she's having a hard time with Jon being at work so much. Then to just see Diane and Randie and get gifts but can't open them. Today she watched our home videos from Christmas 1988. (That was hard for me, too!) Then just the excitement of Christmas. 

Then Jon's dealing with grief. Every time he talks about work and what he has to deal with each day with COVID breaks my heart for him. Ten residents that he's been with for several years are no longer there. It's going to take quite awhile to get back to "normal" there for everyone.

I grieve in a small way for all the families that will be celebrating Christmas in 2 days without someone they love and have lost this year. And this will be our 9th Christmas without Bill, and 10 for my Mom. Wow. Unbelievable. 

That's enough tears for awhile. I continue to praise my Heavenly Father for taking care of us these years. He is worthy of all praise. I love you, Jesus!

 

A Christmas Party

It was a busy day for all of us. Jon and I went to Panera Bread for a drive thru scone breakfast, Walgreen's, Debby's Dollar and the post office. We were home by 10:35 just as Jess and Jane were leaving for the pool. 

Jess and Jane had just gotten home when Rachel arrived with our pizza and salad lunch. Every year we go out to eat for our Christmas celebration, but that couldn't happen this year. We had cookies for dessert before we opened our presents to each other. Both Jane and Rachel spoil Jessie and she LOVES it!

Just after Rachel left, Mike and Angie came and with Jon's help got the toilet out of the van and upstairs. I now have a new toilet that works and doesn't leak! Yeah! No more buckets of water to flush the toilet. Thank you so much, Mike, for taking care of us as you have these past two weeks!

By the time they left it was dinner time so I began working on that. After dinner I rested for a bit before I went upstairs and put all Diane and Randie's presents in a huge black garbage bag because they are coming tomorrow late afternoon to porch deliver our presents and take theirs. This sure is a different Christmas! But, it'll be OK.

The Star of Bethlehem

I missed it. One, I forgot to look. Two, I think it was too cloudy to see it anyway. I guess I'll have to wait for FB pictures! 

While Jessie did quite a bit of "homework", I went to Kroger's. I was there around 10:30 a.m. and the parking lot was packed. I got what I needed and left. Unloaded groceries at home and Jess and Jennifer put them away. Then I went to the post office and picked up our new toilet at Home Depot's curb side pick up. The time waiting for my order went by fast because who did I park next to? My neighbor, Alicia. We visited until her order came then mine was about 5 minutes later. I think Mike's going to install it tomorrow! That will be so nice. It's been since the day after Thanksgiving.

Jon's having a difficult time with so many of his residents passing away (10). Good news is that they shut down one of the COVID floors and transferred those residents back to their rooms, as they've recovered and been quarantined the number of days needed. Praise God!

 

Cookie Decorating Day

After watching church on my iPad, I began decorating the sugar cookies I baked yesterday. It took quite awhile as I put a thin coat all over the top then decorated them later. My cookies sure won't make it on the Great Cookie Challenge on tv, but they at least are edible!

Dinner tonight was from Marcus Grille. Jon and Jessie had chicken strips and I had fish and chips. It's always a good night when we can order out! 

Baking Day

Our day started late because Jessie was watching videos, I resisted getting up, then I gave her a bath before coming downstairs. Breakfast wasn't until 11:00. That's ok. We had no where to go.

While Jessie spent the day on her iPad and looking at photo books, I made a double batch of my mom's sugar cookies and a package of cherry scones. That took me several hours. I was too tired to decorate the cookies, so that will be tomorrow's job. 

Yesterday Jessie decorated gingerbread men, gingerbread houses and snowmen ornaments for the residents at Jon's work. She did them all on her own. Jon will take them in tomorrow and give them to the residents. I think she did a really great job.

Christmas Wrapping ... DONE !!!

About 15 minutes ago I finished wrapping all presents. That is a first for me in I don't know how many years. Usually, it's a few days or one day before Christmas. While Jennifer and Jessie were downstairs making ornaments for the residents at Jon's work, I was upstairs all afternoon and after dinner wrapping. It is such a good feeling getting it done one week before Christmas!

Jessie, Jennifer and I drove through Burger King this morning for a drive-thru breakfast and ate in the Shelby Garden's Banquet Hall's parking lot. We then went to Brent's house to give him Jessie's present. Unfortunately, he didn't want to come out of the house and Jessie wouldn't get out of the van! Those 2 are something else. However, they did say "HI" to each other on speaker phone on the way home. 

I was talking to my cousin, Karen, last night and I told her I was keeping our Christmas cookies out on the deck. She just moved up here from Florida at the beginning of the year, so it was a little strange for her to think of doing that. I sent her this post I saw on FB this morning and she sent back a reply that she just put her cookies in the garage! Too funny.

A Stress Test

Since I was contemplating back surgery in 2021, my cardiologist suggested a stress test since its been over a year since my last one. My test was scheduled for 10:15 a.m. and it concluded at 12:30 p.m. Once again I had a reaction to the medicine they give for a Lexiscan. I had a terrible head ache. They gave me hot tea to help, but it didn't go away until I got home and rested for a couple hours. 

Rachel was with Jessie and she brought a cookie decorating kit for them to do.

Delivering Presents

After breakfast Jennifer, Jess and I took a drive and delivered a few Christmas cards/presents to my Glory Girls and Wednesday at 10 (Bible Study) girls. I didn't go to the Glory Girls celebration and the Bible Study gals decided to wait until January to celebrate.

Mike and Angie came at 2:00 and Mike installed a new kitchen faucet for us. It is SO nice to have a working faucet and not having to get hot water from the bathroom to wash dishes, then rinse them in cold water. Two major jobs done (van battery and kitchen faucet). Two more to go (upstairs bathroom toilet and family room ceiling).

Jon worked a COVID hall again today and was very busy. His schedule got rearranged because of need and the holidays. He's off tomorrow and has 2 doctor appointments. I have a stress test in the morning. We'll see how that goes.

Jessie had a difficult day. She didn't want to do anything Jennifer asked her to do. It wasn't fun around here.

Monday and Tuesday

Monday was a much better day than Sunday. I was able to get out of the house for a couple hours in the morning after we had our once-a-month meeting with Jessie's case worker (on Face time). With Jennifer's guidance, Jessie worked on her Christmas presents for her aides and friends. 

Jon was supposed to work today (Tuesday) but they will need him more on Friday. After the "Merry Maids" left we set out at lunch time to go to Sam's Club, Gordon Foods and Home Depot. I specifically wanted to get AA batteries at Sam's Club. The first display had NO AA batteries. Thankfully, there was a second display with some. When we got home I couldn't find my cane! I probably left it in the Gordon's basket. I just couldn't believe it. 

Jane took Jessie swimming then to get a Pita Pit lunch and eat in the van with the ducks. As usual, they played lots of games. Jessie only plays games with Jane. No one else. 

  

A Very Emotionally Bad Day For Me

Jess and I had breakfast while we tried to watch church. Their sound wasn't very good for the first part of the hour, then when it got better, Jessie lost interest and kept interrupting. Frustrating.

After breakfast I had Jessie help me empty the dishwasher. She does an excellent job of putting away the silverware. However. Today as she finished up, she sneezed in the open drawer! I simply just had no words! 

I had to empty the entire double drawer, wash everything in bleach water, rinse in hot water and let them air dry for several hours on the counters. I am thankful that Jon helped me. It definitely wasn't what I had planned on doing today.

Then the kitchen faucet broke. Again. Jon hauled hot water into the kitchen so we could get the silverware cleaned. By the time I was finished I was in a mood. Not a very good mood either.

Everything I touched seemed to fall on the floor. I opened the freezer to get ice and ice flew out on the floor. I went to pick up one thing and two more fell to the ground! I couldn't get the lid off Jessie's cup. I threw it in the sink. (That opened it!) 

I was so overwhelmed with everything that is going wrong in the house. Now I have to go find a new faucet and find someone to install it for me. Maybe when the company comes to put in the new toilet, they'll be able to replace the faucet, too. I can only hope. 

Oh, yeah. My picture printer died! Pictures I was printing were filled with wet ink. The scanner doesn't work and the pages are all messed up. Guess I'll have to go get another one, too! 

Jessie has been super crabby all day and has spent quite a bit of it yelling at me. I sure wish I knew what her problem was. That takes a toll on me, too.

Enough of the crappy day.

At 5:00 p.m. Jon, Jessie and I went to Panera Bread for a drive-thru flat bread pizza dinner. We ate under a light pole in Kohl's parking lot. When we finished we went for a drive to see Christmas lights. 

The best one was north of 31 Mile Road between Mound and Campground. A huge house had lights and figures everywhere and it was a light show with music on the radio. I wanted to stay and watch it longer than we did, but both Jon and Jess wanted to leave and see more. 

That was a nice time. It helped us all with our attitudes. UNTIL we came in the garage, Jon tripped over the snow shovel, got mad and Jessie began screaming and having a what-ever. She just can't handle when anything goes "wrong", especially to her Jon. 

So, if you're laughing right now, maybe I'll be able to recall this later and laugh with you as I reread our day.  Right now, not so much!

Thanks to Mike, Alicia and Alicia's Dad

It's been over a week since my van wouldn't start. It wasn't at the top of my list of to-do's until yesterday. Jennifer's son, Mike, came at lunch time to jump the battery, only it wouldn't keep going once he took off the cables. He came back in the evening and replaced a ??? that was loose. That didn't work either.

I was talking today to my neighbor, Alicia, and she said that her dad was coming over and he'd take it out for me so I could take it and get it replaced. He did and I did. When I returned, Alicia put the new battery in and hooked it up. (I'm impressed, Alicia!) I am so very grateful for all the people who help take care of me. Thank you, God, for taking care of me through my friends.

It's hard to me to deal with things like this. Bill used to do all the house stuff. Cars not, but at least he would make the decision as to what to do about it. The toilet upstairs still needs to be replaced and the only thing, up until yesterday was for me to go buy a toilet and Joyce's husband, Jim, said he'd put it in. I just couldn't do it. I was afraid that if I ordered one, or bought one and it was the wrong kind, I'd have to send it back! The plumbing company called yesterday and lowered their price and I agreed to have them come and put in a new toilet. Two things will soon be taken care of. 

Jessie has been a crab all day. I asked her if she was in pain but she said "NO!" OK, then. Just crabby I guess. It's been a challenging day for me. I worked on my checkbook in between taking care of Jess, the van and etc. Already the day is almost gone and I should finish the checkbook, but I think I'll leave it until tomorrow! I'm not in the right frame of mind for numbers.

Just Jessie And Me

Jennifer isn't feeling well so it was just Jess and me today. I gave her a bath then fixed her scrambled eggs with bacon for breakfast. I did numerous loads of wash and put them all away. I straightened up the family room and the dining room table. I did quite a few odds and ends and I "only" have to do paperwork tomorrow. Jon worked today. I watched a movie while I ate lunch. Mike, Jennifer's son, came and jumped the battery on my van but the battery is totally dead. Thankfully, the battery has a 3 year warranty and it's only been 2 years. We'll have to deal with this tomorrow when Jon is home.

Another Busy Day

Jessie had speech in the morning then we came home for lunch. Right after that we picked up Lois and went to Jessie's rheumatologist appointment. From there we went to Joann Fabrics for me to get a small sewing machine. Jessie was beside herself for being in a store. I had put her in her transport chair which helped a lot, especially if I kept her away from displays. She wanted to touch everything! And she wanted to buy everything, too! 

That's about it, as I'm very tired and just want to sit down and put my feet up. Jon worked yesterday, today and will go in tomorrow. At least he wasn't on the COVID floor so it was a break for him.

A Very Busy Two Days

Yesterday, Tuesday, Jane took Jessie to the MTRC swimming. As soon as they left, I got ready to leave and pick up Lois for a medical appointment. However, my van wouldn't start! It's been in the garage for a couple weeks so I'm hoping it's just the battery even though it's only 2 years old! Thanks to Jon who let me use his new Jeep Compass. He had the day off and had just gotten home from early shopping. 

Lois and I went to Hobby Lobby then Wendy's drive thru lunch before we went to Grosse Pte. Woods for her appointment. I sat in my van for 1 1/2 hours reading. That was a nice break for me. It wasn't too cold, either. On the way home we went to Walgreen's then I got our mail. Finally.

Jon made dinner for us tonight ... an Achatz Beef Pie he put in the oven. Lois stayed for dinner then I took her back to her sister's where she's staying this time. I was really tired when I finally got home.

Today, Wednesday, was busier than yesterday. It was a really fun day, too! Joyce and Dawn picked me up at 10:00 and we went to Faith Christian Store in Flint. It was our first time there (I saw it's advertisement on FB) and it was worth the drive. A very nice store. I'm sure I'll go back there in the future. We had a Panera Bread drive thru lunch in the car before our next stop, which was in Lapeer. We went to the Past Tense Country Store and Cider Mill. I definitely will be going back there, too! At the cider mill we looked around and had an ice cream cone. Heading toward home Joyce suggested another stop in Brown City and The Pineberry Shoppe. I definitely will be going back there often. It's one of the nicest country store I've been in, and I bought many Christmas presents. I thought we were through shopping but we made one last stop at the Indigo Lavender Farms in Imlay City. Like I said, it was such a fun day of shopping and supporting small "local" businesses. They dropped me off at 5:15 p.m. and dinner was hot dogs and beans!

Rachel was with Jessie today and they went to Panera Bread for breakfast and Petco for treats and a Christmas present for Darla. When they came home they made gingerbread cookies and Jess did more homework for speech tomorrow. 

A Happier Jessie Today

Jon had the day off and went with me to Kroger's right after breakfast then we picked up a Kohl's order. We were going to get the mail but there was way too many people in there. The parking lot was packed. A rep from Livingspace Detroit brought out a new panel for the one that had come apart. He was impressed with the way we put the deck together. When he was finished, Jennifer, Jess and I went to McDonald's for a drive thru lunch and ate with the goats. The one in the pic was looking right at me until I was ready to take the picture. He had an attitude!

On the way home we stopped at Westview Orchards and Jen and I took turns going in their store. It was the first time I've been in there. Jess wanted some apple cider and I got Jon a maple bacon donut and Jess a sprinkle donut for snack. 

There was a huge truck off loading crates in the parking lot. I thought they were empty but they were all full of apples. I asked the woman inside and she said they should have enough to last through December! Wow. I would have thought they had enough for months. What do I know? 

A Quiet Day

I started out the day with giving Jessie a bath after she watched a video in her bedroom. We had breakfast and I watched church on FB then spent another hour watching Dr. David Jeremiah's church service. Jess took a nap and when she woke up I made us lunch. She watched her iPad and I watched another Hallmark movie. That's it. 

Jon had to work. Poor Darla. When she got up (she sleeps in my room) she went to Jon's room looking for him and stopped at the door way and just stared at the empty room. Then she looked at me as if to say, "Gone again?" She's been moping around the house for several days and I think she misses him.

I know Jessie does because as soon as he got home she started screaming and talking about sick people. When he finished decontaminating, he held her and she cried. She misses him, too. It took us about a half hour to calm her down. 

We've got to her her out of the house tomorrow. Three days in a row is a bit much for her. Me, too. I'm going to Kroger's in the morning!

I'm Tired

I set out to do paperwork all day but didn't even start. Instead I did 3 loads of wash, cleaned the downstairs bathroom and vacuumed and dusted the entire downstairs. Plus I took care of "her highness". She was pretty needie today, or at least thought she was. I wanted her to help me make banana bread but that was a big "NO!". I really didn't mind since it was the first time I've baked in months. Maybe over a year. I made an Impossible Tuna Pie for dinner but it didn't set in the middle so I had to serve the outside area and rebake the middle. That was frustrating. Jon worked today and was able to rest when he got home. He's worked 10 out of the last 11 days. 

Breakfast (Out) Day

Friday's are usually Jessie's breakfast out day and she's not been happy that she can't go out and eat at Leo's Coney Island. So today I did the next best thing. I ordered breakfast for the 4 of us and Jen picked it up on the way here. I used my Christmas dishes, we ate in the dining room and Jessie seemed happy. At least she got her eggs and sausage and CRISPY potatoes.  

I left around 10:30 and picked up our mail, got gas in the van and got prescriptions at Walgreen's. Then I shopped at Hallmark. I was able to get multiple Christmas gifts. I had $8.00 worth of Hallmark cash, many items were BOGO and I spent so much money that I got a beautiful "Christmas In Evergreen" blanket, regularly priced $39.99. It felt good to cross things off my list, as well as get something for me!

At 1:00 I had an appointment to get my hair done. It was a nice relaxing 2 hours. I finished another Christmas book.

Jessie did homework, painting and at one point she asked to go outside and swing. That was unusual but she had a great time!

Jon had today off but he doesn't feel well from his RA. He's hoping he isn't getting another flare. I can see the pain in his eyes. 

I bought Jessie a Santa mask at Hallmark.

I hope she'll wear it.

If she doesn't, I'll have to!

Hair Cut Day

Before Jess had "Speech" we went and had her hair cut. She looks so cute with short hair. We also dropped off a few meals to Aunt Lois and Ruth and gave books to Andrea.

Since Jon had off he went to Home Depot and Target for some fresh air and a few things he needed. Unfortunately, work called and they were desperate. Another floor had to be turned in to a COVID area and they needed a nurse. Being exhausted he should have stayed home but he said, "I can't abandon my residents."  He really shouldn't be anywhere near that floor because he's immune compromised, but he has a heart for his people and his co-workers. I'm so proud of him. He's my HERO. He worked from 2-7 and has tomorrow to rest before working the weekend.

Another Great Day For Jessie

Trying to keep Jessie occupied at home since she can't go out in public has become a daily "chore". Today Jennifer and I scored a win for Jess! She got a bit crabby after breakfast so I told her to go outside and clean off the snow from her van. She said "OK!" and ran to the closet for her boots and coat. Go figure. I was kidding but it turned out that she really had a good time!

At lunch time the 3 of us went to Wendy's for a drive thru lunch and went and ate "with the goats". That got her out of the house, too. 

When we got home Jennifer and Jess went out to the deck, which was nice and warm, and decorated the Christmas tree. Jess handed all the ornaments to Jennifer. She stayed out on the deck for quite a while.

I did a scrapbook page of Jessie's 30th birthday for her scrapbook while it was nice on the deck, too.  I need to make a scrapbook for Jon, but he doesn't have many pictures of himself like Jessie does. 

Santa Display

It was just Jessie and me today. I finished putting away the Harvest decorations, finished decorating with the Christmas decorations and put empty bins and boxes back in my Christmas closet. I had been looking for my Santa rubbermaid but couldn't find it until today. It's been awhile since I displayed my Santas:

Jon worked 12 hours today. There have now been too many positive residents to send out to a COVID hub, so now they are caring for the positive COVID people there. This was his 7th straight day and he is scheduled for tomorrow, too. He's beyond exhausted. 

Jessie and Darla

Jessie did quite a bit of homework with Jennifer today. She also painted window clings and took a nap. I went and got a pedicure, shopped at Bath and Body, Big Lots, grabbed a McDonald's lunch then picked up vitamins at the eye dr. When I got home, Jessie took everything out of the bags. She also wanted Darla to smell the nice candle (lid) I had bought:

Darla takes a few sniffs.

Darla has had enough!

I just love the way Jessie can get excited about the most simple things. She found her elf hat yesterday and wanted me to sing along. "Ho ho ho, ho ho ho, we are Santa's Elves!" 

 

A Quiet Sunday

Since Jon was on-call this weekend, and due to a day shift nurse testing positive for COVID and getting that news as she was in the parking lot ready to go in, he had to work again today. Unfortunately, several residents and staff members have tested positive. Thankfully, Jon's test was negative. However, the stress level was high. The positive residents were all sent to a COVID hub within the company. Positive staff members were either already home or sent home. 

Tomorrow will mark one year of perfect attendance for Jon. That's just incredible. Not many people can say that they went to work every day they were scheduled. Congratulations, Jon !!! You're my hero!

Jess listened and I watched church at 10:00. I miss being there. We went for a very quick drive to Ruth's to give her and Lois the homemade turkey vegetable and stuffing soup I made last night for dinner. Jess also helped me finish decorating my side of the Christmas tree. I watched another Hallmark Christmas movie and after Jon got home I went to Marcus Grill for a take-out dinner. Jess just woke up from a 2 hour nap and I believe Jon is ready to go to bed. So I guess Sunday is a wrap!

Get This Girl Out Of The House !!!

After breakfast and giving Jessie a bath, I did a load of wash then Jess and I picked up Lois and we drove down the road! We began at the post office, then on to the bank, Walgreen's, Arby's for a drive thru lunch then Lois went into Michael's while we waited in the van. Next and last was Home Depot. Jessie's favorite place. Can you believe it? She loves all the blow ups and Christmas trees. 

Since Home Depot is such a large store, I pushed Jess in her transport chair. As we went by a large bin of stuffed, musical toys she grabbed Mickey Mouse. He sings "We Wish You A Merry Christmas"! So, she bought herself an early Christmas present! The 3 of us had a fun couple hours out in the beautiful sunshiny day. 

Today was Jon's day off but because he's a Mentor he's in charge several times a month and has to cover if there isn't enough staff. Today is one of those days. He worked from 3:30 - 9:30. Let's hope he doesn't have to do this tomorrow. 

Happy Thanksgiving and the Day After

Thanksgiving Day was quiet during the day. Jon worked and Jess was on her iPad after we watched the Parade while eating breakfast. When I think of Thanksgiving, I think of my Mom who always watched the parades in the morning. I rarely did and don't now, but Jessie likes them so I turn them on. We were watching for our friend, Jean, who was one of the Grand Marshall's balloon handler. There was an up close picture of her for about a half second! 

I did quite a bit of odds and ends around the house in preparation of dinner. I even did a load of wash and managed to watch a Hallmark movie, "A Timeless Christmas", which was pretty good. 

When Jon got home and Jean arrived, we had a nice turkey dinner. Jess and Jennifer made pumpkin pie the day before and Lois and Ruth shared half Achatz pies they had purchased: pumpkin cheese cake pie and cherry pie. 

For many people Thanksgiving was very different because of the pandemic. However, not for us, as it usually is only the 3 of us as Diane and Randie always celebrated with Randie's family. It was different for them because it was just the 2 of them.

Today, Friday, didn't go as planned. Lois and I were going to go to Joann Fabrics but my day changed when Jon ran back up stairs just before he left for work (6:00 a.m.) and told me that "we have a BIG problem!" Water was pouring through the ceiling in the family room dining room. Yup, he was right. It was a mess. He shut off the toilet upstairs thinking it might be that, which turned out to be correct. 

I moved the table and chairs, put large towels on the floor, moved one filing cabinet and my neighbor, Derrick, moved the heavier ones for me. 

After waiting for a plumbing company to arrive (3 hours after my first call) and having trouble locating the leak, the plumber finally decided to look at the toilet upstairs and found a crack in the tank. While he was ripping out the wet drywall, I was placing the wet, yucky stuff in bags and getting them outside. Dry drywall is crappy to work with. Wet drywall is nasty! Plus much heavier. 

We can't get a new toilet until next week because it's small and Bill built a shelf over the toilet tank that extends from the sink. I hope they still make those kind. If not, there goes the shelf!

What a mess. However, I'm so grateful that it didn't happen yesterday. Thank you, Jesus!

Jessie had a wonderful day with Rachel. It began with a Panera Bread drive thru breakfast eaten at the duck park then a drive around Stony Creek. Jessie made a Christmas Wish list, a felt monkey craft, baked Elf sugar cookies, decorated half of the Christmas tree (the other half is for my ornaments) then decorated a gingerbread house. 

Like I said, she had a great day!

Oh, My What A Day!

Jennifer and Jessie had a very busy day. Right after breakfast I left to take Lois to a doctor's appointment and they made a pumpkin pie and worked on my Christmas present. Jess also made a felt turkey to put on top of her Thankful tree and a felt frog craft.

Lois and I got Wendy's and "ate with the goats". There were white turkeys and guinea hens in a pen, too, that I've not seen before. A trip to the post office then I took Lois back to her sisters. 

As soon as I got home I began getting things out of the Christmas closet and putting away more of the Harvest decorations. Jennifer helped me lift the turkey into a pan and put it in the oven for me. I decided to cook it today so tomorrow will be less work. We just had hot dogs and beans for dinner so I was able to debone the turkey and get it in the fridge. 

I'm pooped. As of this minute I have walked 9,556 steps! No wonder I'm tired. I'll see what it is when I climb into bed at midnight. 

Back To Eating With The Goats

Jane was with Jessie and beside playing numerous games throughout the day, they went to Wendy's drive thru and took their lunch to "eat with the goats". Apparently the goats had just been fed, too, and Jane mentioned that one of the goats was really nasty to others. I knew right away which one she was talking about! He's not nice when he's not eating.

Jon had a dental appointment and went Christmas shopping. I cleaned the upstairs bathroom, dusted my bedroom and vacuumed. Oh, yes, two loads of wash, too. It took me hours because I had to keep resting my back. At least it got done. Jon brought in the family room tree and set it up for us. I'm sure it'll take us a week to get it decorated. 

I also read an entire Christmas book by Melody Carlson. It was only 175 pages, unlike the other 4 I just finished that were over 450 pages each! Diane asked me how many books I've read this year. I told her about 40-50. I DO like to read. I enjoy recommending books and lending them to others to read. I do this on a regular basis. I have hundreds of books even though I've purged some that weren't that great last year. 

 

Sunday and Monday

Sometimes I forget to blog. Other times I don't feel like it. I guess it really doesn't matter since this blog and the book to follow are mainly for me.

Jon worked yesterday. I watched a Hallmark movie in the afternoon after watching church on FB. While I was in the other room, Jessie decided to clean out one of her drawers in the dining room and spread it out over the floor. It was a mess but she enjoyed herself.

Jon and I went to Kroger's after breakfast today to get some things I think we'd need before next week because I'm certainly not going shopping on Friday or the weekend! There weren't as many in Kroger's as I expected. Jon said the shelves were stocked better than last week when he went. 

I put away 98% of the Harvest decorations in order to make way for the Christmas decorations. Jon will put up the family room tree tomorrow and we'll decorate it when we get a chance. Maybe this weekend. 

Jennifer took Jessie to visit Brent for a half hour and took him a Thanksgiving craft. They were both excited to see each other. Jessie has been so much happier since she got to go out and see Brent. That made her day. I told Jennifer to take her through McDonald's to get her a pop, too, which REALLY made her happy!  

Saturday

Just Jess and me since Jon worked. I did 5 loads of wash and began removing Harvest decorations. I'll have Jon put up the large family room tree on Monday and I can then slowly decorate for Christmas. Jessie played on her iPad most of the day. I ordered Christmas items from Kohl's and when Jon got home I went and picked them up. It's nice to order on-line and have them bring your items to the van for you. Jessie was so bored today that she went with me to Kohl's, something that I didn't anticipate. I guess I better go put the 5 loads of folded clothes away and get Jess ready for bed. Not that she will want to, though.

Thursday and Friday

Jon had yesterday and today off. It was nice having him around the house. He finished cleaning up the garage so we can park one of the vans in there when the weather finally turns wintery. He also went grocery shopping for us yesterday at Kroger's and Vince and Joe's. Jessie was ecstatic to be able to empty all the bags and see all the stuff he brought home. (Jon said Kroger shelves were bare and pretty picked over, just like months ago at the beginning of the pandemic.)

Yesterday Jess had "Speech" and today Jennifer was with her. Once again she slept for 2 hours right after
breakfast.

I picked up Lois and took her for a medical test. We ate a Wendy's lunch in the parking lot then went to The Christmas Tree Shoppe and went to the post office.

It was 60 degrees and the deck warmed up really nice. Jess went outside swinging and I tried to take a nap on the deck. My mind wouldn't shut down but it was nice just to sit still for awhile. We had Walleye for dinner, mac and cheese and air fried plantain. Another good meal, if I do say so myself.   

A Ride In The Van

While I was at Bible Study this morning, Jessie and Jennifer were supposed to be working on my Christmas present. However, Jessie slept for 2 hours and woke up just before I picked them up after study and going to the post office! We went to Walgreen's, then ordered take out from Marcus Grill and ate at the "duck park". From there I tried to take a bag to Salvation Army, but missed the collection time by 15 minutes. We drove down to Sterling Heights and dropped off 5 large garbage bags of pop cans to Play Place. Jess used to go there quite a bit. It's for autistic and special needs children/adults. 

Cleaning

Jane wasn't able to come today because her grandson woke up sick yesterday after visiting on Sunday. We're just being extra cautious.

That left just Jess and me today so I decided we'd clean the house. The Merry Maids were supposed to clean today but I cancelled them at least for a month. Unfortunately, we only got the front living room and kitchen done. Jessie dusted and I vacuumed. Jessie also used the small vacuum cleaner and took care of Darla's bed. She did a really good job. Why didn't we get more done? My back. Vacuuming and bending over are 2 things I really shouldn't do. But I tried. I did manage to do 2 loads of laundry.

Jess and I also went out for a bit in the afternoon. I had mail to drop off at the post office, we went to the bank, Walgreen's and got a drive-thru McDonald's lunch and ate in TJ Max's parking lot. 

Jessie is having a really hard time since we've cut out all her community interactions. No more eating in restaurants. No more Art with Brent. No more swimming with Jane. No more shopping at Target or Debby's Dollar. We told her that people are getting sick again and that we don't want to get sick either.

Jessie believes in prayer. Unfortunately, I guess, is the fact that she believes that as soon as she prays for someone to get better, that they are immediately well! It is hard for her to understand that it takes time, sometimes, for people to get well. She's had several break downs today. We've also prayed for people to get better multiple times today. She did much better in March when we were shut down, but I think it was because she had scratched her cornea and she wasn't well for awhile. 

Monday

Jess went to bed last night around 10:30 and slept until 8:30 a.m., which is unusual. Then immediately following breakfast with Jennifer she slept for almost 2 hours. At 8:15 p.m. tonight, she wanted to go to bed! That's where she is right now. She doesn't appear sick. Just tired. She does go through these tired spurts every once in awhile.

Jessie did a lot of homework after she woke up. She also did mosaic sticky pictures. She does really well with those. I'll have to take a picture of them and post. 

I did quite a bit of paperwork again. Got clothes ready to go to Salvation Army. That's about it. I guess I'll close this down and go upstairs with Jess and read for awhile. I have 3 1/2 hours until it's my bedtime!

 

A Very Blustery Day

I didn't get up until 9:30 this morning. Jessie was already up, dressed and watching her videos in her room. When we got downstairs, Jon had the table set for breakfast and was just beginning to cook the eggs. I haven't eaten egg yolks (in plain eggs) in over 3 years. Today was an experiment to see how it would affect me. (It seemed OK. I'll try them again.) We had sausages and bakery scones to go along with the scrambled eggs. It was such a treat, eating breakfast together. We only do that on holidays. 

Since I did two days worth of work yesterday, I decided not to do anything today. I read and even took a short nap. The weather outside was pretty scary at times. We had thunder, a bit of lightning, rain and heavy winds at one time in the afternoon. So much so that Jess looked at me and I said, "Let's go in the closet".  She got up right away and ran to the closet. Darla snuggled next to me and was shaking. We weren't in there long, but it reminded me of the wind sheer storm of Labor Day 2019. That was terrifying.

The Governor shut down the State again for 3 weeks. Jessie is having a hard time knowing that she can't go out like she had been. No outside activities for Jessie. Here we go again!

A Very Productive and Busy Day

After my shower this morning I gave Jess a bath. We (the 3 of us) had breakfast, I put in 2 loads of wash, I cleaned the downstairs bathroom and rested for a half hour. We left to go to the post office around 12:30 then got lunch at Wendy's and ate with the goats. Jessie pulled out all the shoes and stuff from the coat closet and I washed fall coats and prepared for winter.  Boots and gloves are ready, as well as our heaviest coats. 

Jessie has been crabby this afternoon. She is hollering because it's not raining outside. She wants her iPad NOW (the battery died and it is plugged in). She doesn't like me typing on the computer and is hollering at me to STOP! She yelled at me because she got an ice cream sandwich instead of a "big" bowl of ice cream. She insisted that she was going to eat her dinner on the couch. When I told her she couldn't, she fell asleep. I told Jon that was her way of getting what she wanted. She knew we'd eat while she slept then she could eat alone on the couch. After an hour, she woke up and yelled: "EAT HERE!" I pick my battles with her. However, tonight I'm just very tired of her crabbiness.

The COVID numbers are going up in Michigan. There have been 2 positive COVID tests at Jon's work among the staff, although the people are asymptomatic. Jessie is also not happy that we aren't letting her go swimming, shopping at Target or Debby's Dollar for awhile. This could be why she's so crabby. She's also hollering because we aren't going to church for awhile (it's too crowded) and eat out afterwards! I think I'll go get ear plugs.

Shopping

While Jennifer and Jessie went out to breakfast, I quickly ate 2 frozen (dry) waffles and went to Meijer's. Since I've lost 40 pounds, I need a new winter coat. I haven't been in Meijer for months, and I don't plan on going back any time too soon! There were no coats that fit or were something I'd wear. I needed a new large 2021 calendar and I did find that. When it came time to check out, I was surprised at each long line. There were only a few lines open and very long lines in each one. According to the check out woman, no one wants to work. 

I met my cousin, Linda, for lunch in Chesterfield at Applebee's. We had a nice chat and the steak quesadilla I had was really good. When we finished, I went across the street to JC Penney's and found a coat! It's still there. It was $200.00 so I decided I didn't really need a coat THAT bad. Around the corner at Kohl's I did find a nice coat for much less. It was regularly $100.00 on sale for $89.99. I had a 30% off coupon and a $5.00 coupon. I did really well! However, it took me 20 minutes to get to the front of the line. You'd think Christmas was tomorrow! I guess everyone is afraid that our illustrious Governor is going to shut us down again due to the rising COVID cases. 

Gyros For Dinner

Tonight's dinner was gyro sandwiches. I spent about 5 minutes frying up the meat. I took the ready-made macaroni salad out of the refrigerator. It took longer to set the table. What kind of reaction did I get from Jessie? She kept saying "MMMMM"  "MMMMMM", and she even clapped her hands in excitement because it tasted so good. Seriously? I don't get this kind of reaction when I spend hours on the dinner! Jon, as always, thanked me for a good dinner. Even before Bill passed away Jon would always thank me for a good dinner. He was the only one. 

Jess and I had a good and busy day. I dropped her off at her "Speech" class, went to the bank for an appointment, picked up mail for Ruth and took it to the post office. Went home to get some boxes for Friends of Foster Kids and picked up Jessie. We went to Walgreen's for prescriptions, Kroger's for gas, Leo's for lunch and dropped off the boxes for the Foster Kids. We were gone 3 hours.

The deck was nice and warm when we got home so I spent about an hour outside reading. Two loads of wash got done and folder and I began cleaning off the counter in the family room. I have to get ready for Christmas decorations. Maybe I'll put away the Harvest stuff on Saturday and get the Christmas stuff out a little at a time. It just doesn't seem possible that Thanksgiving is a week and a half away and Christmas a month after. I better get out my list and see what I have to buy yet. 

No More Summer Weather

It was a bright sunshiny day, but only in the 50's. Can't beat that, though, for November 11. 

Jessie and Jennifer were home all day and worked on art projects and went outside for awhile.

Jon had to work. I went to Bible Study and had lunch at home with Jess and Jennifer on the deck. The thermometer read over 120 degrees (it was sitting in the sun!). It was NOT that hot. I had a once-a-year appointment with the allergist in the afternoon. I'm going to try to reintroduce egg yolks to my diet. We'll see what happens. I hope I can eat them again, as I've missed egg yolks. 

 

Indian Summer Day 8

Even though it reached 75 degrees, it didn't feel as warm as yesterday because the sun didn't shine all day. It was cloudy and a bit breezy. However, 75 IS 75, whether or not it feels like it. 

I went to Vince and Joe's for some fruits and veggies after a quick breakfast. Jon went with me to have lunch with my cousin, Karen, in Richmond. We had a really nice lunch and time together. 

Jessie and Jane went to the pool and "swam" for about 45 minutes. She's having a really good time on Tuesday's with Jane. They bought lunch at Pita Pit then took it to the "duck park" and ate it there. Debby's Dollar was next and someone paid for Jessie's order! That was very nice of that person. 

Time to get Jessie upstairs for a bath and then have a last-minute snack before bed. It was nice having Jon home for 2 days. He's back to work for the next 3 days.

Indian Summer Day 7

Another wonderful day in the 70's. It began with breakfast out with Jon, banking and going to his work so he could get a COVID test. The numbers have risen in Macomb County, so his work has ordered each employee to have 2 COVID tests a week, rather than just one. Today was one of the days and since he had it off, he needed to go and get one. It was a fast in and out. I barely got half a page read in the book I brought!

As soon as we got home, we went outside and began yard clean up. A lot of leaves have fallen in just 2 days. Jon used the leaf blower and rake. I picked them all up and put the leaves in bags. We did both front and back yards. That was enough for me. Unfortunately, I had to take some pain medicine and sit for awhile on the deck. That was OK, though. I read in my book.

We decided that we'd have a fire in the fire pit and roast hot dogs for dinner. I made mac and cheese to go with it along with some chips. Ice cream for dessert. That was so nice! Our first fire in many years. We'll do it again tomorrow for dinner since it's supposed to be 77 degrees. Not sure what we'll have, but I'll come up with something.

Indian Summer Day 6

Jon worked and Jess and I went to church. Lunch was at Marcus Grill. Jessie talked for days about having a Chicken Quesadilla. So, that's what we both had, bringing home half of our meals for dinner. I bought Jon a Lobster Swiss Omelet (his favorite) for dinner.

Since Jessie was occupied on her iPad, I read throughout the day, as well 3 hours of checkbook work. I used the table on the deck. It was so nice out there. We are projected to have 2 more days of 70 degree weather. This has been the longest warm days in November I can remember. There were a couple days many years ago way before Bill passed away that I remember putting up outside Christmas lights Thanksgiving weekend and it must have been in the 60's, because we didn't wear coats. That's what I remember.

In thinking about the recent US Presidential Elections, this is what I count on: God IS in control. Even if it doesn't look like it. Praise His Holy Name.

Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness.
Let the whole world know what He has done.
Psalm 105:1

God is in control, and therefore in everything I can give thanks -

not because of the situation but because of the One who directs and rules over it.

Kay Arthur

Indian Summer Day 4 and 5

Yesterday, Friday, was as busy as today was, only a little different. I went to breakfast with Jessie and Jennifer then went to Kroger's. I bought items for us, Lois and Jessie. It reminded me of the days I used to shop for us, my mom, Bill's mom, and sometimes Lois. Keeping track of it all in one grocery cart is a challenge. 

At 1:00 I met Chris and Bill's cousin Joyce and her husband at a restaurant for lunch. We haven't seen them in almost a year. They go to Georgia for the winter, but they won't this year because Habitat For Humanity isn't using volunteers this year due to the COVID.  When I left, I went to the post office and Kohl's to return an order. I ordered Jessie a pair of swim pants in one size and they sent another. Back to on-line ordering again and another pick up.

When I finished checking my e-mail last night, I shut down the computer and didn't remember that I needed to blog until later. I just didn't feel like going back to the computer. 

Today, Saturday, was just as nice a weather day as yesterday. I think it was 73 degrees yesterday and almost there today. However, I spent 2 1/2 hours in the back yard and it felt like it was in the 80's! Bright sunshine. Shorts. Sandals. Love this weather. 

Rachel came and she helped me in the back yard. It looks almost ready for winter. Maybe a little more work tomorrow after church. If not, Monday and Tuesday is supposed to be just as nice. Jon has those days off, so maybe I'll help him get stuff done, too. 

I kept checking on Jessie while we were outside. She refused to go on the deck where I could see her. She was either on the floor with her iPad and cards or the couch with her iPad and tiles. 

The other day I had Jon take off the screen door to the deck. No sense having it on and in the way. Poor Jessie. She keeps looking at where the door was and told Jon to: "Fix it!". Well, it has been on there forever. 

Indian Summer Day 3

 It was warm, but gloomy and windy. Not as nice as yesterday, but still OK for November!

Jon, Jess and I went to Leo's Coney Island for breakfast. Jess and I came home and Jon went to Target and filled up his jeep with gas. A lot of odds and ends were done today, plus "Speech" for Jessie. She's been pretty good most of the day until just a short while ago when she demanded her snack "NOW!" And, that's not going to happen. She is soooo fixated on food. The first thing she wants to know as soon as she gets up is what we're having for dinner. Like, I know? Then where she's going to eat lunch. Home most of the time isn't what she wants to hear. 

Indian Summer Day 2

I left the house this morning with capris and sandals (among my other clothes, of course). The last time I checked The Weather Channel in the afternoon it was 71 degrees. What a great weather day. After Bible Study I picked up Jon and we went out to lunch, Walgreen's and the post office. When we got home, I vacuumed both vans and straightened them. Then I worked on cleaning out the garage so we can park in there for the winter. Jon had worked in there in the morning and it's almost done.

Jess and Jennifer worked on a Christmas present for me. Jon and I stayed up until 1:00 a.m. last night to watch the Presidential elections and he took today off. Unfortunately, he doesn't feel well. He's not sure if it's his RA or something else is going on. It's hard to watch your child (no matter their age) suffer each day with pain and sickness. 

The deck warmed up so well today that even though it was dark, we ate dinner out there. I made chicken quesadillas and Jessie was very happy. Her and her chicken! I do have to admit they were good.