25 December
2011
MERRY
CHRISTMAS
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. The Orcutt family Christmas is over, Elaine did a great job and what a week
this one has been. We worked on the house to get ready
for Christmas and the stool in mom's bathroom started to leak so needed to stop
and fix that. Put up a coat hanger in the front entry for all the coats and hats
I have accumulated. I have the old Sony Mavica out for my pics as the Cyber shot
is way to much bother with all the settings and not many good shots. The old one
is a good shot every time. Rearranged all the furniture downstairs for a place
to put up our tree and so we could decorate. We received a wonderful package
from Norway and the cousins there and that was great. What a great place and
people. Posted some of my pics from this year to Lewzplace on Multiply so hope
they are enjoyed. Tuesday I checked in the ARMS net and had some fair signals
but not super band conditions. Well I got mom's chocolate chip cookies going for
one of her Christmas presents and hope she don't wake up and see them. Got a
good start and found I did not have enough flour so had to run to town to get
some. Made a double batch and burned the first one so had to throw out about 6
of them and the second I did not leave long enough so lost another 6. Oh Bother
sure hope she likes them. The tank for the bathroom stool seems to be okay and
is not leaking yet so may have got that fixed right. The cookies are all done,
the mess cleaned up and the cookies all cooled and put away and mom has not seen
them so I might get by with it. Unless I leave this journal up and she
reads it before Sunday. Got some good reports on the ham set so all is well
there. Hope to maybe start on the old 240 after Christmas and get it back on the
air. Been a long time since I ran it. Mom still has a very bad cold so hope it
ends soon so I can get all this done for our Christmas eve dinner of Oyster stew
and chili supper before we do the gifts. Wednesday started at about 18
degrees and I fixed all the legs on the couch mom wanted changed so it is good
for now and the temperature is on the rise. Brought the tree and stand from
the attic and the lights etc for it so will get that much done anyhow. I need
that set up and all our hallmark snowmen as a minimum. Managed to get much put
away with the help of mom so it is getting more like Christmas and we have the
Christmas music playing. Have to take mom in for some Christmas shopping and a
Doctor appointment today, Wednesday 21 Dec 2011, and get busy wrapping etc.
Guess this will all be history when you read it but this is my life with my
angel so the beat goes on. The appointment went well, we picked up Crystal
and looked at a car for her, did some shopping, ate out and then home. Did not
sleep well so was up at 4:30 Thursday morning and put the anti slip stuff on the
throw rugs in the Library so hope that helps them as I really like them. Checked
20 meters on the ham bands and it is completely dead at 5AM so that was a bust
so here I am and did find out a few things about the Windows 7 and Internet
explorer and in there making it user friendly have hidden everything and made it
very complicated. Go Figure. Time to invoke the old KISS principal I
believe. Cleaned all the pics out of the cameras so am ready for the
Christmas party and adding many more. Am reverting to the old Sony camera so we
can get some good pictures again. Put the lights on the tree and have
killed one pot of coffee so now I am wound up but hope to get all the
decorations done today. We had a dusting of snow last night but not enough to
make a white Christmas so hope we get a little more for a white one
anyhow. Finished the tree and oh my is it a Charlie Brown tree. Not
important as Jesus is the reason for the season so it is all good. Got many of
the batteries in our snowmen etc. for the grandkids but may not have enough to
do them all. Friday arrived unannounced and it is Brads Birthday and we are so
not ready. Did a few of the Christmas gifts I had ready and checked in the
ARMS net and oh my oh my what is next. Is it nap time yet? No it wasn't and
we finished more wrapping, cleaning, and Brads Birthday and Saturday arrived
with temps around 12 degrees but sunny and calm. Mom stayed up late last night
and did much of the wrapping and stuff and now just some cleaning left and the
food prep. Finished the last of it and the evening finally arrived and we
had our Oyster stew, Santa arrived and all in all we had to much to eat and to
many gifts but it was all fun. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night,
God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
18 December
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Another fun week and we tore out the kitchen sink area in the store and moved
the double sink to the basement and plumbed it in. The printer is still running
tags while we are doing all this stuff. Got the drain all connected to the sink
and the water completed and it works well. Then proceeded to plumb the hot water
to the small sink left in the back of the kitchen area and work on the drain
area as it does not drain well. Then cleaned the main floor area and moved all
her fixtures to one corner area to open it up and moved all the lumber and old
fixtures down stairs for now till she is ready for them after the store opens.
It is starting to look very nice. Removed the old water heater from the kitchen
area and took it to the basement also for storage and removed much of the left
over plumbing. Tuesday we headed home to try and catch up on some of our stuff.
We stopped at Brad & heathers to celebrate our little Lucas's birthday as we
missed it while at Tammy's. We went out to eat and then opened gifts and headed
home as we both were very tired. Wednesday found mom wore out and sleeping most
of the day and me doing next to nothing. Thursday came and we were some rested
so we started some clean up work for our Christmas stuff and we completed much
on the downstairs area but a long way to go yet. I checked the pond and all was
fine there and found the old Rambler battery was low as I did not connect the
maintainer so did that and hope it is all okay. Checked into the Fellowship net
and did some tuning on the radio as it was some off the full power setup but was
still working very well. Moved many of the arbor day tree planters to the drive
under for the winter storage and hope they make it so we can plant them in the
spring. Most all of the snow has melted except in the shaded areas and the north
side of things where the sun does not reach and the wind has picked up again so
am pretty sure we are in Iowa and it is December. Ran to town to take our little
Crystal home from work as she had a real bad cough with a case of bronchitis.
The gas company has come and removed the last tank so we are all switched over
now and hope it was a good move. Did not sleep well Thursday night so Friday
came early at about 3 AM so just did some computer stuff and radio stuff. I
copied a couple of the grandkids dance recitals to CD and cleared them up and
then put VCR tapes and CDs up to help clean out the TV area. The new printer is
doing very good and it is an amazing printer so did get a good deal on it
although the price of the ink has went up $3.00 a cartridge to $17.60 and there
are 8 of them but it lasts a long time. Got my haircut Friday and prepared
things for the trip to the Orcutt Christmas at Elaine's. Tammy will be going
with me but mom is staying home as she is not doing so good with all the riding
to Tammy's store and such. Crystal wanted to go but she could not get off so it
will be just us I guess. Took all the pics off the cameras and got them set up
to go. Saturday morning found us up early and after some cereal left for the
Orcutt Christmas at Elaine's at 6:15. Just Tammy and I went as mom was not
feeling well and was throwing up and has a bad cold. We had a good time there
but really missed mom and called her to see all was okay when we got there and
when we were leaving. Again we had to much food and the time with family was
fun. I am not feeling so great this morning so hope I am not getting sick also.
Guess I better post this and get out of here so I don't give it to you all. Hee
Hee. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all
Lew.
11 December
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. So dawns another week at the ranch and all is well and busy. Arbor day
sent us more trees so scrambled to find some pots and stuff to heal them in till
we can plant them in the spring. You would think they would know the ground in
Iowa is froze in December since they were sent from Nebraska. The pond is evaporating
much water with the dryness and the heater in it so had to fill and treat some
again. The propane tank at the rental was about empty so had the tank changed
over and told the old company to pick up there tank. Mom did much work on the
Norway Christmas gifts and we finally got them in the mail so have that out of
the way. I got all the snow cleared up from the drive and patio and walks so it
good till the next snowfall. Went to the church elders meeting and there will be
much to do so pray I am capable of handling it all. Wednesday we headed back to
Tammy's to help her some more and I left the suitcase with some of moms stuff in
the spare bedroom so she went to Wal-Mart with Tammy to get a few items she
needed. We got a little done before they went and am ready to print her jewelry
tags and get moving on that. Also took apart two of her display cases to see if
I can fix the lights in them. Some one has butchered them but if I can get parts
they are fixable and if not will need to do them with new different things. Oh
Bother. At least I may be able to fix them. Ben and I put the red lens covers on
her fluorescent lamps while they were gone and that looks rather nice. Thursday
found us both wore out and we just slept in and did nothing till about noon.
Must be stress or something. I did get up and make out some Christmas cards
though and did some journaling and computer things but not much. Tammy called
about 10:15 and she was just getting up also and wore out to it seems. We
did some stuff at the store and I found out the ballast I wanted was no longer
available so have to remanufacture them with some t-8 lamps and ballasts. Mom
kept going with jewelry and has much of it up to sort now. Started the printing
of the tags and got about 1,000 printed and even some of them cut and punched,
boy that is time consuming. Sure is a lot of busy work going on there but it all
needs doing. Friday came really sunny and a pretty day but had a little late
start but not as late as the day before and went back to the printing and the
work on the display cabinets. May need to add some ink if we get them all
printed although we are only using red and some black but red was low when we
started. Spent much of the day working on the display cases but that was a
bust as the light does not work but it doesn't make any sense as all the stuff
is wired right so they must have sold me a bad ballast or something. I just hate
that. Oh well I have put enough time and money in it that I will just give it up
for education and move on as changing bulbs would be hard anyway. Wow it is
really hard for me to say die and give up. Saturday morning came and the temps
have dropped to around zero and it is chilly out. I did not sleep well thinking
about the display cases so was up by 5 AM and went to the motel breakfast and
had waffles and cereal. Will clean up my mess from the cases today and get going
on some other project I can make work along with the printing of the jewelry
tags. Have already printed one ream of paper and there are 6 tags on each so
have 1,500 tags printed and some cut out and punched just from working on them
during a break or slow time. Life is good today. Matt Kris and the kids
showed up around 10:30 and then we got a lot done. They cleaned and arranged
things for Tammy and it sure was a big help from all the kids. I put the
displays back together and put up the dressing room mirrors and clothes hooks
and did some staining work on her shoe racks. Also did some more cutting on the
jewelry tags and Sean and David did all the hole punches and folding of them.
Sure caught up with me quick. Well Nobody came on to the 7 AM chat on messenger,
face book, skype, or Lewzplace so guess I better post this and get moving. God
Bless, Be Good, Do Right, Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
4 December
2011
Oh My you
may be redneck if you dig the plastic silverware out of the garbage. Hee Hee
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Another family thanksgiving picture I could not pass up as it is so
funny but I love it. Wow what a week. We stayed with Tammy till Wednesday when we
came home. We did a lot of things for her that I hope was good to get her going
to open. I finished the lights for the glass over the door. and put up the track
lights for the window. I mounted some new lights for her fitting rooms and fixed
the doors so they would open and close okay and fixed the door handles for them.
I put a new flush valve in the stool and cleaned all the glue off the ceramic
tile at the entrance that had been glued over for carpet. Did some caulk work at
the entrance sidewalk and glued all the carpet in the display windows after I
repaired all the warped boards under it. We put up the tree for moms sign and
she worked for all those days sorting and hanging jewelry so it can be tagged
and placed. Our last night there Tuesday night we got some Christmas decorations
and did the display windows for Christmas. We came home Wednesday and after
getting all unloaded we just vegged as we both were exhausted. Thursday found us
doing some of the Christmas gifts to mail stuff along with working on the
calendar for me and some on the camper so we could get it put away for winter.
Friday came and we took the camper to storage after trying to mouse proof it and
the van and put them both up for the winter. I then got the snow blower and the
uniloader ready for the snow as the forecast said 3-5 inches for Saturday. I
then collected rent and paid bills and got all that out of the way. Saturday
came and the pond needed some water so did that and then the rain and snow
started and and the heat stuff for the pond kicked on and we blew a fuse so had
to move all the wires to a different circuit so it does not happen and then
freeze the pump. Got the new printer and had to clean the heads many times to
get it to work good but it is sure nice. Late in the afternoon I cleared the
snow from the drive and used both the blower and uniloader and they both worked
well but the snow was really wet so could not throw it real far. Got a call from
Brad at Wal-Mart and he broke his truck key so spent several hours trying to get
that worked out but none of the copied keys worked so just let him use the van
to get home and will deal with that tomorrow. Had to get some sand tubes for the
truck as the road was real slick and it would slide all over the road. Mom worked
her tail off on the gift stuff and has much done. I was able to check into
the ARMS net several times and the ham bands are opening up as the propagation
improves. Well the printer just ran out of ink and the order won't be here till
tomorrow so guess that is done till then. Better get posted and move along for
the chat and church anyhow so God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad,
Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
27 November 2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Well the family thanksgiving is over and the truck problem is done and
the kids have the store things they got back home and Mom & I are exhausted
but it has been a good time. Those that didn't make it to the Thanksgiving
missed a good one and you were greatly missed. Sunday last I was inducted as an
elder and then talked to the pastor about my worthiness and it did not seem to
be a problem. To me that is very serious and not to be taken lightly. Started
back on some printing things and the printer went completely dead so had to take
it in to see if the software is fixable. Tuesday I put the heater in the pond as
it was about covered with a thin crust of ice so don't want it to freeze over.
Our propane tank is down to 10% so set up to have the tank replaced as we are
changing companies. Got the skid loader set up to lift the tank out so hope that
will work. It is all running now and the hour meter is up to what the old one had
for hours so should be good. What a year this has been with all the busy stuff
we have had going on and still much to get done. Wednesday they came with the tank for
propane and that is done and the loader worked fine and also installed two new
regulators so should be good for a long time now. We are changing the one at the
rental also but it still has 30% in it so will wait some for that change. Found
the same Epson printer on line almost brand new so ordered it and will have two
if they can fix the other one and a good one if they can't. Thursday, Thanks giving day we had Crystal and Josh and Brad and family over for
dinner and that was fun but by late afternoon I was all stuffed up and down with
a very strong head cold. By Friday I was really terrible and I slept in till
9:30. We then lumbered along to get things ready for the trip to Tammy's and the
store work. Had to fill the pond and load the van and was exhausted but we
finally got moving about 2 PM and after stops for gas, the dog, food, bathroom
breaks etc we got to LeMars about 5:30. We just went out for coffee with Tammy
and Ben and then back to the room and off to bed as I was completely exhausted.
Woke up early Saturday morning feeling some better. Let missy out and went to
the lounge and had some waffles for breakfast and watched the news for awhile.
The temperature dropped some but not to bad but the wind really picked up so
that is not fun. Had to see the motel management about our tub as it does not
have a drain plug so you can't use it as a tub and thy gave us a plug so we
could use it till they get it fixed. We did much work in the store and I did
some wiring for Tammy and hung up some lamps she wanted done. Then tore out the
carpet in the front of the store and cleaned there some. Then had to run for
some lag bolts to fasten the awning rail as it was just resting on the carpet
and that was all that was holding the arms in place. I wired a light for her
dressing room area and then took the door off one of them and cut the bottom off
1/4th inch so it could open all the way as the floor is not real level there.
Mom did an amazing amount of jewelry and hangers and by 6PM I was wore out so we
went to supper after we left her walker setting in the parking spot beside the
car and went back to get that and then check on Ben and the Church for tomorrow.
We went to the family table and during the meal we talked about our kids and
grandkids and gifts and stuff and we needed to remember many now as we have so
many to get for. Tammy told us to try and keep them all the same as she could
remember how it was because Matt and Brad always got all the really cool toys
and all she ever got was an old stick or a cardboard box. Oh my Oh my I do not
remember those days and I laughed so hard it hurt. After supper the girls went
back to do some more work but I was not feeling so good so I took missy to the
room and fed her and shaved and showered for church in the morning and then let
her out and just vegged. My phone was almost dead so charged it and then watched
some TV and went to bed as today is another busy day at the store after church.
Guess I better quit the rambling on and post this and get moving. God Bless Be
Good Do Right love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
20 November 2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. We had an amazing 49th anniversary weekend at the water park and
all the kids and many grandkids came and we had fun swimming. I gave mom the
necklace I made her and I believe she liked it but need to make a longer chain
for it as it is to short. We stayed there till Monday and then came home so I
could go to the town council meeting. We got the van all unpacked and empty and
put much of it away and then went off to supper and the council meeting
where I told them what I would like for the storm drains at our properties and
asked to have them start the meetings with a prayer and the pledge and seemed to
meet with some resistance there. Tuesday came and had to order a muffler for the
case as no one had one to fit it. I did very little work and just sorted the
mail and worked on the project for our Norway family Christmas gifts. I have
picked way to much stuff to do so may let up some next year. Wednesday came and
was up early and started some lentil soup as it is soup time of the year and got
the dishwasher going and then checked into the ARMS net. It was 22 degrees and I
noticed the Christmas cactus is in full bloom and we have full sunshine. Had to
add some water to the pond so put a new end on my winter hose and filled the
pond and cleaned the filters. All six fish are doing great and almost at pan
size. Guess I have had them to long for that. Had to replace many ink cartridges
in the printer as the print quality went way down then it said some parts have
reached there life time use so need to check the manual for that. What does that
mean? Go Figure. I put the muffler on the case and it is much better now.
Finished the Lentil soup and started the Potato chowder soup for our family
thanksgiving. Called Epson and found out that the printer may need some pads but
they are no longer available and the printer will be done if it stops printing.
Once again the uneducated and illiterates are in charge of the world. Thursday
came in at 10 degrees and there was some ice on a corner of the pond so winter
is in the air and need to get the heater in for the winter to keep a hole open
in the ice. Checked into the ARMS net and started the printing of the family
calendar. Of course as that starts I ran out of ink and seen I was short on
paper so had to order some. Any how did some more around the house and got the
cameras, computer, food and clothes ready for the Orcutt thanksgiving and Friday
came and got it all loaded in the van and headed for LaMars and Tammy's. Had a
fun trip and then helped Tammy in the new store for the rest of the day and then
went out to eat. Mom helped immensely with all the jewelry unpacking and hanging
up so it can be tagged and sorted. I did a little painting and moving stuff for Tammy
and then put in a couple lights for her for her front window and set up the time
clock to run so she can see if it keeps time and all. Saturday morning came and
we got the thanksgiving celebration off the ground and there was much rain and
Ice moved in so some people could not come but many did so it was a fun family
time. We had good food and great times to visit and I really enjoyed it all.
Many of the people had a long drive so it wound up some early and we finished
all the clean up and then headed home. Ben had some trouble with the truck he
got to get some store stuff for the store so we had to head back to LaMars and
trade it for another. Long story short it was midnight before we finally got
home and unloaded so I went right to bed. Better get this done and posted as I
need to get moving to church as I am to be inducted as an elder today. God Bless
Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
13 November 2011
Thursday
last, 10 November 2011, marked 49 Years with the love of my life and it has been
and is a wonderful ride. God bless you angel and I love you with all my heart
and thanks for putting up with me for so long.
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Monday started off with some warm back in the forecast and it
proved to be a very busy day. First off went to town for some groceries and some
parts for the skid loader and then some ARMS net time. Mom and I then cleaned in
the patio areas some and planted the bulbs we had to plant for the fragrant
daffodils. Then off to the wetland to plant 10 small blue spruce pines we got
from Arbor day trees. We worked some on the special photo album we are doing and
on some of the calendar stuff. I did some work on a special project I am doing
and in the afternoon did not feel so good. I put down some mulch on the new
plantings and spread that around. Then went out and cut and cleaned the cactus
bed and ended up with 2 bushel baskets, 2 13 gallon garbage cans full of plant
and a 30 gallon one about 3/4th full. Gave some away here in town and Tammy
wants some so still more to go. I delivered some to the people that wanted them
and then was late in the day and did not feel well so quit for the day. Mom did
some supper of Chili and corn bread and we watched some TV and then I went to
bed about 8 PM. Did not sleep well till about 5:30 AM when I felt some better so
slept in till almost 8AM. Tuesday came and still not feeling the best but
finished most of my project and then helped with some house stuff and tried to
get the computer Virtual PC going but no luck. moved more things to the attic and
did some packing for the weekend for Tammy and our anniversary. Wednesday was feeling
better So checked on the finish work on my project that was the necklace I made
for mom from a stone I found in Norge and picked up the sign for it along with
other supplies from town and put it all together. It turned out real nice I
believe and mom liked it I believe so that was nice. Thursday came and we
finished the packing and headed to Kings Pointe for the anniversary weekend. We
did some thrift store hunting and ate out special and just vegged some and
Friday came and went and it was Saturday and time for the kids to come and Matt
& Kris with our Cody and Caitlin came early and that sure was fun. then
later Brad & Heather with Steph, Faith, Sarah and Lucas came and then
finally Tammy & Ben with Crystal & Josh and our weekend is complete. We
went to the water park inside and swan and went down the slides and just had a
wonderful time with kids and grandkids. Life can't be much better than that. We
opened some gifts later on and mom got her necklace then and then Matt &
family and Brad and family went home and it was way too quiet again but Tammy,
Ben, Crystal and Josh stayed here and we spent time to wee hours of the morning
just visiting. It sure was fun but now I should get this posted if we are going
to get out for breakfast before they have too leave. God Bless Be Good Do Right
Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
6 November 2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Halloween is over and I got a picture of three of our punkins along with
many of the neighbor kids. It was so fun to see the kids and get a picture of
Faith, Sarah &Lucas since we did not see them. We did Halloween Sunday
night so it really wasn't over but the Kids did in on Monday so it was over when
I got the picture. Anyhow Monday was busy with house stuff and computer stuff as
we got the new tower PC and that sure is a challenge to get up and running and
they are different than a laptop so you can't do the same thing on one as you
can on the other. Go figure. Helped mom some and did some town stuff and then
set up for the floor in the rental to be replaced where it is sagging. Tuesday
came in cool but warmed up nice and I was able to check into the ARMS net but
signals were poor. Set up for the vinyl replacement at the rental and went and
bought some for it also. Did some more on the skid loader and collected the rent
and read water meter etc. Picked up some Subway sandwiches for lunch and then
just goofed off and did bills and worked on the computer some. Mom and I watched
some TV and then off to bed. I did not sleep well as I was worried about the
floor and cabinet at the rental and all so was awake at 3AM and finally got up
at 4:30 and did many program installations for the new computer. Wednesday now
got the garbage out and I left for the rental at 7AM to get the stove out and ready for the crew to
fix the floor. All my worry was for naught as it is going well and should be
done about noon or so. Took my little punkin, Crystal's computer, in and
got the passwords cleared out for her so she can use it again. The floor is done
at the rental and tomorrow we do the vinyl and then done for now. The rain is
coming down pretty heavy now with snow and sleet mixed in and we sure can use
that but it sounds like we might only get 1/2 to 1 inch. We lay down for a nap
but the phone rang after about 30 minutes so just got up as I could not get back
to sleep. Thursday came in about 38 degrees and was up early working on the
Calendar, Photo album, Christmas gifts and much other stuff. Made a trip to town
for the vinyl for the rental and then moved the fridge etc there so we could be
ready for the vinyl to go down. Went back about 12:30 and got the carpet person
started and took out little Crystal to the food shop and seen that mom got in
for her jury selection appointment right. She wasn't there very long and the
case was settled and they did not need her or a jury for that one. The rest of
October thru December they could still call her though so have that to wait
through. The vinyl is down and looks really nice and I just need to do some trim
now and it will be very good for the kitchen area again. Mom and I made chili
for supper and had some corn bread with it and it was good. Friday came in at 18
degrees and was sunny and bright. Will be a very nice day. Checked into the ARMS
net and shared St Luke Chapter 9 Verses 23 & 24. Radio bands not very good
today and keep changing much but will be better when the sun is all the way up.
Did some more work on my calendar and it is about done now so that is good just
need to do a little and then print and bind. Have most of the computer stuff
back and it is getting easier all the time. Maybe I am getting smarter because
they sure don't make it any easier or user friendly. Saturday was warmer and I
checked in the ARMS net and the Swan net. Mom and I did some outside work and
planted many bulbs. Mom cleaned out the garden shed and I put up many of the
chairs and things for the winter months. We cleaned the patio area and pulled
all the old flowers and mom cut the flower seed heads of the flowers and put
them in a basket to spread them at the wetland in the spring. She had a great
idea there so sure hope it works okay. We have 50 more bulbs to plant before the
snow flies and we are putting some pines in over at the wetland that we need to
get in yet and then treated for deer and rabbit repel for the winter months. We
trimmed some of the bushes by the house and will need to trim the cactus. Got
the trim molding painted and ready to put down so that job will be done on the
floor for now. Put up the hoses so they don't freeze and mom and I did supper
and then watched TV. Have both computers pretty well done so that is helpful.
Well I better get done here and post this so I can get to church, hope you set
your clock back. God Bless Be
Good Do Right love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all.
30 October
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. And what a week it has been. Monday started off with warm temps and much
work for me on the skid loader, winter stuff and getting ready for winter.
Camper is ready for the shed and have checked for the Willey city ordinances.
The pc is dying so took that to town to get checked out. Some of my older
software will not run with Windows 7 so need to get that handled. Got the charging
system working on the skid loader and turns out I probably did not need the new
regulator. Bummers. Started on the adjustments etc for it now and need to check
the kill switch as it will not turn off. Got tires turned in for the narrow way
so they are now even with the bucket. Tuesday came in chilly but really warmed
up so that is nice. Mom and I spent the morning getting her ready to go help Tammy
in her store. We finally got that done and she left for LeMars about noon and I
picked up the new starter for the skid loader and seen her off at Casey's. I
then put on the starter and that works good now. Did some pond work and then
called it a day. Found out the PC has a main board going flaky as I guessed so
have set up to invest in a new PC with some upgrades. Wednesday came in cool at
40 Degrees and I checked into the ARMS net and the band was not very good. Was
able to run a few relays into the net so that was helpful. Picked up the ordinances
for Willey but could not check them out so had to read them there. This will
need to change. Got the kill switch part to work on the skid loader and adjusted
the carb and the RPM speed for it and it is running pretty well now and still
need to work on the control levers as they are rather jerky and sticky. Went
back out and did the chain drive adjustments and that helped immensely. Then it
is getting late so went in to do dishes and get supper started for me myself and
I. Missing mom bunches but she is having fun with our little Tammy. Fed
missy, watched some TV and taped some for mom and then hit the sack. Thursday
arrived on the cool side at 20 degrees out and the heat came on so winter time
is in the air. Did some final adjustments on the skid loader carb and now just
need to pull the seat and grease all the fittings etc so it will operate
smoother without the jerks. Fired up the ham set for the ARMS net and then
checked all the new laptop computer updates needed and they are all good for
now. Got a look at Steph's graduation pictures from Abbie and they are pretty
kewl so downloaded them and then went to bed. Friday came in at 22 degrees again
but much sun and turned into a nice day. Started the bean soup for the supper
meal as Brad and Family are coming over and then did some work on the skid
loader and added an additive to hydro to help the sticky valves and all. Got the
hour meter hooked to 12 volts to run the hours to the same hours that are on the
machine so it will be close to right. Got temp gauge for the transmission also
so I can the operating temp and maybe help it run better that way. Went to town
for some things needed for the supper and got Winnie the Pooh return to the
hundred acre woods to watch also after supper. Did all the dishes and cleaned
counters in the kitchen and cleaned the stove so that is all good for tonight.
Upgraded to Windows 7 professional and then put on virtual PC so we can run some
of our older programs but not sure I like it much. Saturday morning is here and
cool again but the sun is up so it will be nice. We had some good bean soup and
corn bread with the kids last night, watched the movie and our Little Faith
spent the night. Her and Mema stayed up to watch a movie but I was tired and
went to bed. Did dishes again as we did not do them last night and then made
Faith some breakfast and checked into the ARMS net and did a prayer request for
Terry and Nicole for God to work in their life and marriage for his benefit. Net
control in Harrisonburg Virginia had 3 inches of snow and still falling. Did
some more stuff on the Virtual PC but it may not be all that amazing. Oh Bother
I may have upgraded to Windows 7 Professional for nothing. The story of my
Life. The day progressed busily and I got the gauges on the skid loader all
working and now am running the hour meter up to match the old one. Hauled the
disk and tractor to the barn and got the hay rack and the trailer put up along
with them. Why did I get all this stuff to do and when will I learn. Oh well
better get posted here and get moving. God Bless, Be Good, Do Right. Love Papa,
Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
23 October
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Well Springbrook is over for the year and the campfires are done and the
kids have all went home. Picture of me and two of my little loves but we are also home and missing all the snuggles from
all my little loves. Monday started cool at 38 degrees and over cast but cleared
out some late in the afternoon. I slept in and then started the camper stuff to
get it ready for the winter storage. Spent much of the day on that and then went
to town to mail all the thanksgiving invites for our Orcutt family thanksgiving.
I sent then to 22 persons with them to ask all the family ones I might have
missed and it will be on 19 November which is a Saturday. We will hold it this
year for our Tammy and us and it will be at The Eagles club in LeMars
Iowa. Hope all can make it as I invited the Minnesota Orcutts also. What a
great time if they show up. Got most of the camper stuff in and now the
cleaning of it all. Tuesday came in at 32 degrees and overcast again and I
finally caught a mouse in the camper so hope that is all. We will arrange
different this year and put out many bounty sheets to see if we can keep them
away. Started the washing of the camper stuff and winter packing of it under the
bed etc. The sun crept out about 9AM and I checked into the ARMS net and then
more work for the camper and the readying of the boiler in the house and all for
winter. Started on the 2012 calendar as I lost all info on the last
computer crash and the program I use was for windows 95 and it worked well with
98 and XP but does not work with Windows 7, Go figure how this is advancing to
the rear again. Put it back on the old sys and will see if I can make it work
with new laptop later as the run in compatibility mode does not work either.
What a bother. Wednesday came in at 25 degrees and overcast but we can not seem
to get any rain out of the clouds. Spent most of the day cleaning fin tubes and
setting up the boiler for the winter operations. Finished it all late afternoon
and fired up the boiler and it worked well so now we are set for the cold
weather when it comes. Worked some on my calendar and the Lotus program but no
luck with it on the new windows 7 but have it all worked out on the XP windows
version. How the heck does that work. Oh well it is all good for now. Did some
radio checks on the nets and all and mom made some T-bones for supper. They are
not as good in the fry pan as on the grill. We then did some TV and off to bed.
Mom is still fighting the cold and all. Thursday came in at 20 degrees and
a brisk morning it was. Checked into the arms net and then did some breakfast
for us and started the work on the storm drains etc for our Willey properties.
After some calls it may be a city drain fix it problem so will see on that.
Still trying to Find Terry Orcutt and may have found his wife Nicole Orcutt so
will continue those checks to see for sure. Well it is Friday and I did
find a phone number for Terry and it is good and I talked to him but could not
get an address so will see how it works. Spent all day on the camper and it is
all winterized and packed away and now just clean the floor, put out the bounty
sheets and haul it to storage. May finish that tomorrow if I can get the hay
rack out and put in the lean-to on the barn and then I can get the tractor in
there also or in with the camper and van. Will need to clean the van all out and
get it stored for winter also. The tower computer is now going goofy as it is
extremely slow and takes forever when you turn it on. I have dumped did cleaning
defragging and all I can think of but still very slow. Almost like the hard
drive is bad, or processor is going, or it has lost some memory or the PS is
goofy again. Might get a new one and just see about using our XP professional
service pack 3 if we still can. That way I can still use all my old programs
with it. Oh Bother. Oh My Gosh I also found Cheyenne Orcutt, Terry and Nicole's
daughter, Nicole &Briana and have made contact with Cheyenne. Wow is this
great or what. Will keep you posted. Saturday came in warmer at 40 degrees and
much sunshine so will be a nice warm day. What a great day and later on got
some addresses. I checked in the arms net and the Swan group and all signals
were great. Mom and I trimmed her mugo pine to make it look like a Bonsai
tree and it is coming along fine, then we picked many flower seeds from our
flowers to put at the wetland next year. It was way fun and we got many seeds so
should be fun with all that. Mom is working on some stuff for Tammy and her
store and the TV has only boring football and sports so watching The Lawrence
Welk show and Larry Hooper singing. What a voice. Yah I know they are all gone
but still fun and a good show. Had to clean the print heads on the Epson printer
as it went very faint and mom needs it for her project. Now I get to see Lost In
Space, how kewl is that followed by dragnet double feature. Morning is here
and I slept in but not very late. Barb is the only one to show up for the chats
so what's up guys. The week has been busy so better get this posted and get
ready for the next week. Maybe I will slow up some. For now God Bless Be Good Do
Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
16 October
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Saturday last I had the hay rides at Earl Mays for their pumpkin days
and it was really fun even though I was struggling with a severe cold and sinus
problem. We had close to 100 children and another 50 or more adults that rode
with them so we had much fun. Matt & Kris & kids with Kris's mom MaryAnn
and brad and heather with 3 of the kids made it and all got rides etc. It was
real fun. Tammy and Ben came to the campground and Matt drove mom in to Guthrie
to look at the stuff for her store. We did much cooking etc for supper and then
made some mores for the grandkids and listened to music and did some sing along
by the fire. Tammy spent the night and then left on Sunday last and is working
hard on her new store. Monday found me under the weather again and not doing
much at all. Mom and I went to town for some groceries and we ate out for lunch
as Elaine went home earlier. I did some chicken stuff over bread and we had a
salad for supper and I am wore out again. Took more drugs and will see some TV
and then to bed. Did not sleep well and Tuesday dawned with some rain and much fog
and humidity. Worked on the new moped as the speedometer quit and tore it all
apart and lubed and cleaned but still no go, the odometer turns some but after
some checking it really is not going enough. Cable and all to the head all work
and can run it all well with a drill now so must be the gear in the wheel
slipping or something. Oh Bother. Mom and I went to town and then to the bargain
barn again and she got some more books for her craft stuff. I was still not
feeling so well so I went to the van and napped awhile. I made some salmon on
the grill for supper and mom and I watched the movie final, what a boring, go
nowhere, nothing movie that was. Still fighting the cold so went to bed about
9:30. Wednesday came cool and cloudy but the sun burned off the fog by 9AM so
was a good day. Put the mirrors back on the moped and still no speedometer so
will need to pull the front wheel and all to check there. Made breakfast of
oatmeal and toast for us both and then mom was feeling bad still so she went
back to lay down. I have the new computer kind of figured out and it may be okay
but it sure wants to take control of everything. So far I have been able to make
it do it my way but we will see as time goes on, there seems to be way to much
security so most stuff just will not go till you set it up your way, Baa
Humbug. Made a few changes on my ham antenna so will see how it works out
today for the Swan 258 group. Well I hope but will see at 3 Hee Hee. It worked
great and got good reports with it so all is well, so there, all you new
technology stuff. Visited with the Swan group and many other stations so had fun
and all is well. We had much rain in the evening and I got many things
ready to pack in the van for the trip home Thursday. Did some pork chops for
supper and we watched TV and Harry's Law. I really like that show. Thursday
morning came with sun and clear skies but rather damp and we put all things in
the van and packed the rest of our stuff to get ready to head out. Got most all
done before noon so now just hook up and go drain and clean the tanks and head
home. Got done and drained and cleaned and wow what a mess that was but the
nasty job is done and we are headed home. Had to do our stop in Coon Rapids for
the bargain Shoppe so here I am in the van writing while mom is in looking for
more stuff we don't need Hee Hee. We got some gas on the way and some snack lunch
and just finished that. There are many wireless connections I can get here but
tried the Verizon broadband modem and it has full bars and works great. The
camper is sure a mess from the wet ground so will have a good clean job when we
get home before we put it away for winter. Guess we will have time but I get
rather depressed with all but not sure why. Must be I am retired and
looking for things to keep busy and end up with so much I believe I can do I
become so overwhelmed I get depressed and do nothing. Maybe I should get a job.
NOT!! Maybe some is the empty nest and now then the Grandkids are leaving home
with two out already and the next ones getting very close to going so I am
feeling very old. Okay that is enough of the pity party for me so the good lord
will get me through it and I will survive. Checked into the ARMS net Friday
Morning and that always is a pick me up. The guys and the bible verses always
make a day much better. Friday is a good day with sun and about 55 degrees so
will be a great day. Went out before the net and got the van unhooked from the
camper and started the unload process and called the newspaper for the call I
got while camping on the interview about the run for city council I am doing.
Mom is still fighting the cold so is resting some today so will have a huge pile
of things from the van to go thru when she feels some better. The fish all did
fine while gone and all the plants we put in just before we left are fine so
that is all fine. Saturday arrived at about 40 degrees and much sun so was a
great day but did not do much as mom was still not well and I am somewhat blah
blah bad. Did some dishes, went to town and got a haircut, got some bedding from
the camper and our bed to wash, worked on installing some computer programs on
the new computer, and helped with some supper. Started the setup for our
family thanksgiving as Tammy wants to have it for her this year so we will share
it all with her in LeMars at the Eagles club. Should be lots of fun and much
easier than normal that way. We will see. Got moms laptop all set up and ready
to use so now she can work on her book and stuff when she wants. Better quit all
the rambling on and get posted and move along. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love
Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
9 October
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Sunday last was a goof off day and I just had to change a flat tire on
the van and then just played with many things. We went for a small ride on the
moped and mom tried hers out and did well. I made her a very special supper and
it turned out very well and very tasty. I drove around the campground now that
all the people are gone and picked up all the firewood they left. Then mom and I
watched Nanny McPhee as mom had not seen it. Monday came and I slept in late and
then checked into the ARMS net followed by my making us some breakfast. After
some goof off time and a ride with mom on the mopeds I headed to Carroll for
some chores that needed doing and then on to the Willey council meeting. It was
a long day and I was tired when I got back. Tuesday came and it was a clear day
with sun so we really enjoyed the morning. We both slept in some and then did
some camper stuff and mom and I went to chucks bargain barn and spent the rest
of the day there and in town. When Wednesday came so did my sis Elaine and it
was fun. She did some fishing and then I made a steak supper for us all. Mom and
I went for a moped ride but she is not sure she likes the mopeds much as they
scare her now. We may look at a four wheel scooter or such if that will
help. Any way Thursday came and late in the day I had the start of a developing
cold so not much accomplished. Early in the morning Elaine and I went for a walk
and then she went fishing. I just vegged and started some medicine for the cold.
By Friday morning I just had it so bad I stayed in bed most all day. Between
trips to the bathroom and sleeping my day passed rather unmemorable. By Saturday
I was a little better and I needed to get to town and get the tractor and hay
rack to Earl Mays for the pumpkin days hay rides I was giving. I managed to
struggle through the day and it was fun and the kids really enjoyed it and so
did I. Brad, Heather and 3 of the kids showed up along with Matt Kris, Mary Ann,
and 3 kids there so they got a hay ride and then we all headed out to
Springbrook for some supper. I took Sean with me and he was a great help and we
had a good visit. Tammy and Ben then came to Guthrie Center for some of the
store closing Items for her store and I started the grill and made the Crab
salad stuff mom was doing with the help of Heather. Matt took mom to town to
help there and some of the group went for a walk and I started the Hamburgers
and hot dogs for the kids to get them fed. After all kids and adults finally
straggled through the food and we were full I started a fire for some somores
while the kids played some. We had a little music with Brad and guitar and the
kids singing some and finally the fire was dying down all were leaving that were
not staying for the night all the dishes and area was picked up and I was
completely wore out so just went to bed. Sunday was cool and damp and we had a
cat in the garbage last night so need to clean up that mess so better get this
posted and get the day started. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad,
Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
2 October
2011
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Sunday last mom and I worked our tails off in the yard and trimmed much
on bushes and trees. We cut out some of the old white lilacs and then planted
the new ones she got and will use the white as a backdrop. We loaded 2 huge
piles of brush and clippings so it is so much nicer. We were both exhausted but
Mom/Mema did so much it was very fun but hope she did not over do. Monday came
and I did one last load of the brush and checked into the ARMS net and then
started with the camper stuff for our Springbrook trip this Wednesday. WooHoo.
Much of the stuff I do is done but will double check and then had to run to town
for some meds and I checked on a DVD/VCR recorder player with a tuner. None!!!!
So much for Digital and technology. I did find we have a mouse in the camper so
am working on catching that rascal with some glue traps and snap traps. He will
be gone one way or the other. Tuesday came in at 50 degrees and overcast
skies but no rain yet just teasing us I guess. I stayed in bed till after 7 AM
but had to get up to let missy out as she was snorting at me. Checked in the
ARMS net but the band is terrible again so not much communication there. Big
solar flare messed it up so got checked in then could here nothing. Did get
to talk to several members but the controller could not be heard by any. Checked
into my Swan 258 group later in the day and that was fun. Set up the radio to
take camping and went to town for some parts and groceries for our trip. When I
got back I fixed the antenna mount and took my radio out of the desk and loaded
all in the van and camper. Finished up most of the groceries and we are about
good to go. Wednesday came and finally we can go camping and relax, got the
garbage out and finished the last packing stuff and all the arrangements for
work that needs to happen when we are away. Ya right relax who came up with
that word. Finished the camper loading and hooking up and finally off to
Springbrook. Had some lunch on the way and got in about 1PM. Our spot was open
so we were excited about that so started the set up. Got electric and leveled
and then some water and started the unloading and arranging and spent a good bit
of the day doing that. Got the mopeds out and running and then set up my ham
station and made contact with the Swan 258 group. Still have not caught that
pesky mouse. Set up the grill stand and the stove and grill and got supper going
and then just some TV. Oh and by the way we get very poor TV no cell service and
no computer broadband here. My old Cell phone, TV, broadband card all worked
great in this very same spot the last time we were here. My question then is
since we have made an upgrade on all three of these devices for better, faster,
more reliable service how is this a great improvement and once again it
looks like technology has made the old advance to the rear movement. Give me a
break people and if you accept this I feel sorry for the future generations.
Thursday came and we finished most of the setup and tried to relax. Had to do
some work on the water heater as it does not always fire like it should. Went
for a moped ride and did some adjustment on the old Honda. Set up and staked
down the awning and filled the water tanks on the camper and we worked on some
organizing things. Did some more radio communications and put down the carpet
under the awning and did some T-bone steaks for supper and then some TV. Friday
came and we got out all the lawn decorations out and set up bird feeders and all
and I put up the clothes rack on the camper bumper. Gathered up some sticks to
have a fire. The wind was really bad so glad I staked the awning down as the
sign on our post blew away and the spinner we put out had 3 pieces blown away.
We found 2 of them but not the other one yet. We went to town for some shopping
and then to our Fettuccini Alfredo for me and all you can eat shrimp and fish
supper for mom and it was good. Saturday morning found us up early as I needed
to get to Carroll and get the hay rack to the church to make a float for the
band day parade for the church. When completed I ran down to the parade route to
get pictures of Faith in the middle school marching band and of Steph in the
high school marching band. This will be the first parade for Faith and the last
school one for Steph. I then got some groceries and things from the house put
the hay rack away and back to the campground. Was rather tired so we just did
small stuff and mom cleaned out and arranged her craft stuff under the benches
and I did some of the pots and pans in the cupboards and listened to the radio.
We did soup and crackers for supper and called it a day. Here we are at Sunday
morning so I better quit rambling on so I can post this if I ever find a
connection. God Bless Be Good Do Right love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle
and all Lew.
25 September
MY
SPECIAL ANGEL
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. What a week this has been as we left Tammy's on Monday and got back in
time for the council meeting and I put in my papers to run for city council. Did
some work on the skid loader and used it to clean out some of the gutter for our
new lot on Tuesday and got the garbage ready to go out. Watched some TV and then
went to bed. Mom & I have decided our Springbrook trip will be starting on
the28th of September, this week Wednesday. Not sure yet on the length but should
run till the 15th when they close the bathrooms anyhow. Sure am ready for Springbrook.
Wednesday then did some more on the skid loader but may need to take it in for
the charge circuit as I can not get it figured out. Got the rest doing pretty
good and moved the big cement tile from our area to the city area using it and
it lifted and moved it easy. Had to drag it some first to get away from a steep
bank so it worked well. Went to town and got some groceries and mailed some
stuff for mom. I also picked up the manuals I ordered for the Case and they are
really helpful. We received the lilac bushes mom ordered so we need to plant
them now and they can get a good start then. Thursday dawned cool and clear
and will be another great day. Checked in the ARMS net but band still not well
so had many relays. Mom and I will plant the lilac plants, she got, today and
trim some of the other ones there. This year has been so busy I have met myself
coming in on some trips going out. Where am I Come on Springbrook. Did some
of the mowing and got ready for some plant removal and the planting. Friday
came in at 38 degrees and much sunshine. Did some computer stuff and checked
into the ARMS net and then out to work. Cut and hauled some brush, water shoots
and small tree starts. Took the seats out of the red van to ready it for
Springbrook. Brought both of the mopeds out of the garage and got them running
good and loaded in the van for the camping. Will run and get the hay for the
rack tonight and have supper with Brad & Heather & kids. My cell quit
working on the text message part again so what is up with that. Supper
with the kids was fun and the hay is in the shed on the rack. Stephanie made an
amazing peach pie we had after supper and it was really good and she did a
really great job. Saturday came and worked on getting my cell back up and
running and mema/moms quit also so we spent about 7 hours calling etc to get it
going again but had to get a new one if we wanted to use the old number. They
got the old one messed up so bad they could not get her number back on it so
gave her a new number. They claim they can put the old number on the new phone.
What how does that work. Did some filter cleaning on the pond and such mom and I
did some shopping while we got her new phone which they claim will take about 48
hours to activate. The weather is really good with warm days and cool nights and
I am loving the fall time. We could use rain though as it is very dry. Guess I
better get going and post this and head out to church. God Bless Be Good Do
Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
17 September
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Looks like the monarch migration is over and the humming birds and
all are heading south. Remember to take in your hummingbird and oriole feeders
the first of October so they can migrate like they should and not freeze. Sort
of rainy and overcast this morning so hope we are getting some at home also. We
are helping Tammy this weekend with her building so are busy there. Mom is very
excited about it all and raring to go but it is slow work. We are both kind of
slow this week so maybe a small case of flu is plaguing us. Got the skid loader
running fair this week but still needs some work but not serious I hope. I
ordered a regulator as it does not seem to charge but the stator has good
output. The amp meter does not read any charge and I can not meter any at the
battery so a new regulator. Had to put a new waterfall pump in the pond as it
quit again. I went with a total different one this time as those were very
expensive and would only run for one year or so. The new one works fine and does
not need a valve to be slowed down for the high flow rate. Have added skype and
got a new web cam for the laptop and it sure works great. Had a video chat with
Solveig in Thailand this morning and it worked really great. No jerky picture
and really good audio with a very good screen picture. May add it to the home
computer as the old web camera does not function so well or may be just the
service there is not as good although all the bars and such for the connection
are the same. I have been sleeping in a lot lately and not sure where that comes
from. Guess it is just stress and my body needs the rest. Tammy and Ben went on
there golf tournament yesterday and they did really well and won enough so they
did not have to pay to play and such. We went to there place last night for
supper and then watched a movie. That was fun and the movie was Thor and was
good. Mom and I made it and so did Joe and Leah but Tammy and Ben nodded off a
time or two. Have some more bad spots in the floor at the rental and had one
check on it before we left and will get another one when we get back but that
sure is getting to be a problem. Guess I better get posted and move on as we
need to get over to Tammy's and get busy. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa,
Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
11 September
NEVER
FORGET 911
GOD
BLESS AMERICA
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. It's Monday, Labor day, and we did not go camping and we have 4 of the
grandkids since Mel is away at college and it is Brad & Heathers 12th
anniversary. Fun Times! We picked them on Sunday evening did some shopping and
then home for mema's special goulash for supper. It was superb and our little
Steph helped Mema by browning the hamburger, setting table and stuff. We also
had cornbread with it and was it ever good. I ate way to much. Supper was late
and we watched some TV but by 10PM I was beat so I went to bed. Mema and the
kids stayed up way late watching movies etc. Sarah and Lucas are up early today
so I set up the TV for cartoons and checked into the ARMS net. What an amazing
day, 42 degrees when I got up and is supposed to get to about 72. What a perfect
day although I am not feeling well but we have the kids. I went with mom to take
them home but sure did not feel like it. Tuesday came again at 43 degrees
and was another amazing day. I feel some better so hope it is over whatever it
is. I need to get the hay rack out now and get it cleaned up and ready for
the Earl May pumpkin days ride and I also volunteered it for the band days
parade for our church float. I found another skid loader that may be just right.
It is the same as the last one but in better shape. Need to check it out better
as it is a little more for price but in much better shape I believe and the
engine was just overhauled. Found some others online but not sure about them.
Seems like everything is such a bother all the time. Did some of the mowing
today and got the hay rack out and cleaned it up and figured out some mounts for
the American flag on the tractor. Wednesday came with amazing temps again and
the Monarchs migrating and got a few pics of them in the trees. Helped mom some
in the garage and did some checks for a hitch on the Rambler. Took Crystal out
for supper on her day and it sure was fun. Glad to be at this point in her life.
Tammy came and spent the night so was good to see her again and we all ate out
and then home and watched some TV and I went to bed. Mom and Tammy stayed up
late. Thursday morning I checked into the ARMS net and got the Rambler out to
take to town for a trip. It ran well and was fun so vacuumed it out and
cleaned some and got the groceries and then home. Friday was a busy day with
mowing and got the wetland done for the last time this year and mowed at the
barn also. Did not get the rental except the push mowing part done so will need
to do that later. Saturday came and it was another great day and I was up early
again. Watered plants, filled pond and checked on the monarch migration. Not
very many today so maybe it is over so was slow this year if so. Going today to
check on the skid loader I might get. Have checked on line and those like this
one go for $1500.00 to $3000.00 so may not get that will have to see. After some
checking and working on the skid loader I made an offer and it was accepted and
I now own a small skid loader. Got the engine running again after some cleaning
and then put a belt on the hydro for the drive unit and it is going good. Will
need some small maintenance but will be a great machine. Today Brad and I are
going to Fort Dodge to get some stuff for his remodeling projects and I will
pick up the skid loader then I hope. I guess I better quit rambling here and get
posted and move along. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother,
Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
4 September
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Wow this has been a very nothing week with next to zero accomplished. We
sent Mel a care package to college but have not heard how that went. Did more
checks on the skid loader but it has no spark and will not start so may just
give them and offer really low and see what happens. Have been doctoring a cut
on mom/mema's foot on the bottom of the heal as that worries me with the
diabetes and all. It is doing fine so far and not sure if it was a cut or one of
those dry crack things. Both of us have been under the weather this week for
some reason. We got the letter for church survey filled out and mom said I was
to wordy but it all needs said and attention of us and the congregation and
synod and America. The pond is really low on water now and mom has ordered some
trees to go there and they are for a wild bird planting package. Should be very
cool as they are flowering and fruits for birds. Checked on the ham bands some
but mostly it was dead and could not talk much. Sure wish this weather would
clear and get normal. Got set up on Skype so we could visit with Mel who is away
at college but not sure it will work well with our slow internet. Mom and I
tried it once but it was sort of jerky. My web camera is a very old one and
maybe that is a problem as I had it way back with windows 95 but that should not
matter unless it needs a software upgrade. I got a new cell phone with the Qwerty
key pad that is suppose to work better for picture messaging and the web out of
my zip code area since it has a sim card and the old one does not. Go figure,
technology is just a mess. Can't wait till 2013 when all areas will be 4G and my
speed and service should really improve according to the techs. Wow figure this
out, I am on the phone upgrading my cell phone, talking on the Ham set, and
working on the internet all at once. Is that multi tasking or what. Woo Hoo!!!
Guess I have too much stuff going on as the internet is snail pace. Oh
Bother. Well got the phone upgraded and I believe I will like it. It is
very different from the old one but may turn out better. Now if it just works
all over as it is supposed to. Turned in the Survey letter so that is done. We
did a little work around the house together and got quite a lot done so that is
good. We even put a few things in the attic. The wetland has really evaporated
so not happy with that but by next year maybe it will be great and full enough
so it don't get so low. Better get this posted and get moving so God Bless Be
Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
28 August
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. My 50th HS class reunion is over and we had fun and seen many old
classmates. Mom looked so pretty and took many pictures for us to figure out
names with the faces. It was a rushed trip but was worth it and now for some
down time maybe. The weather has been extremely hot this year and we have lost
much of the water we gained in the wetland so that is sad to see. We could use
some rain and then maybe get the rest back this fall and winter as the rain and
snow come. It has been a very long week with not much accomplished. The
skid loader I was looking at sold so went to see another but it is not all that
great but a decent size. It has many problems but not very serious one I believe
but not sure I want that work also. Got the mowing finished at all areas and
that is getting slower since we have not had any rain. Did a little radio work
and checked in the ARMS net a couple times and the bands have been really crummy
for that. The new digital signals for TV are a waste in this weather also as
they keep dropping all the time. Hurray for advancement. Am looking still looking
at getting a new phone as this one will not let me send picture messages or use
the browser when I am out of my zip area. The excuse given is that it may not
work outside that area since it does not have a sim card. They will not guarantee
it to work with a card either. Oh bother does technology really suck or is it
just me. A new one is cheap enough and it does have the Qwerty key board and all
but why bother if it will not work either. Did much plant pot watering and pond
filling this week as it is still very hot and will keep the same for the next
week or so according to the weather man. The lawn at Crystal and Josh's was a
real mess and found out the mower there was broke so fixed that and did a good
clean up with the green machine and then fixed the mower and did the mowing for
then. Looks so much better now. The mower had a bad start relay and could not
find one right here so cut it open and cleaned it all up and bent the contacts
back and glued it back together and it works just fine now. Had to fix a tire on
the big mower yesterday as it went flat but was just the bead so all is okay
now. Mom and I have both been sort of under the weather this week and not
sleeping well and sort of sick to our stomachs so it has been a long week. I was
in town a time or two but that is all for the week so I better get posted and
ready for church. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin,
Uncle and all Lew.
21 August
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. We were able to see the building Tammy wants yesterday and it seems fine
but needs serious roof work. It is Monday and we may get to see the roof today
on the outside and will get a better perspective of it then. We will be heading
home tomorrow, Tuesday, so hope we can help her figure it all out by then. There
are many geese her at the campground we are at and that is fun to see but the
people want them gone as they say they are a great mess with all the droppings
and such. I could not sleep well so was up early and checking on the Case
skid loader I looked at. I think I prefer the Gehl if I can assure it all works
okay and the price will be low as it is a larger machine and could serve more
purposes. It is a real cool day so far so that is really nice and we may have
broken the heat wave we were under. Looked at some roof stuff for Tammy and
thought I could do it for them but I really can't so decided not on the beam
replacement and skylight removals. Sure is heck to get old. May stay
another day but not sure yet as some of the roofers canceled but still want to
see the one or two that are coming. Mom fed the geese yesterday while we were
looking at the ceiling joists so I missed that but when I got back I grilled
hamburgers and they were great ground chuck and very good. Tuesday today came
and it is cool and overcast so the temp is nice. Spent the day goofing off
and the roofer canceled so we just decided to stay another day and the kids put
in a bid on the bldg they want and mom and I went to bingo in the evening.
Wednesday found us packing up and going home and we were both fairly wore out.
We did some unpacking and just rested and then off to bed. Thursday was up early
and out for some of the mowing and then a check on the skid loader but the
fellow was not sure now as he wants more for it but no one is willing to give
more. Time will tell. Tammy got word on Thursday that her offer was accepted and
the rest of Thursday was preparations for my School 50th class reunion for us
and then on the road Friday to go for that. After arrival we did some set up
stuff and then off to Wal-Mart to get some things for the camper and stuff we
need. Saturday found us checking out the thrift stores and we got some good buys
and then cleaned up and went off to the class reunion at the Long branch restaurant.
It was a great meal and I ate way to much again and then we all had some story
time and we checked the memorabilia things and before we knew it it was 11PM and
time to go. Mom looked amazing and we had a good time and then off to bed and
early to rise to head home again. Am really looking forward to our Springbrook
time this year as it has been one busy year and we both need the down time.
Guess I better post and get moving. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad,
Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew
14 August
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. The tractor ride was complete and fun and the geese are getting settled in the
wetland. Praise God for all the blessings he has given us. My tractor looks like
a baby one in the picture. Oh wait it is compared to all the others. Going
to be a very busy week this week with all the planned work and then all the
necessary things also. Who plans all this stuff to do with the kids getting here
from Florida and all. Any how Monday came and it was cooler at 70 Degrees and we
got 1/2 in of rain last night. The bad storms missed us. Will get some mowing
done at the wetland today and at the barn etc and have some more to finish on
the shelf for the rental and then fill some holes at the new paneling and paint
touch up and put up the coat hooks and it will be done. Turning into a lot of
work over there but it is looking real nice. Need to spray the yard some to
clean that up also. Well I put the big mower in the water trying to get
close to the edge so had to get some chain to pull it out. All went well and the
restoration area is all clear of weeds again. Kris and her mom and the kids got
into Omaha on Sunday and the three young ones had there school sign ups and
tests and all Monday so they are ready to go that much now just orientation and
all on Thursday & Friday and then the move here for mom and dad hopefully
the first of September. Kris will be for sure and Matt if he finds a job here,
otherwise he will keep working there until he finds what he needs here. Tuesday
dawned very cool at 60 degrees and that sure is a pleasant change and very well
liked by me. Went to check on the Hydra cat thing like the Bobcat but it still
is not going and they also have been working on our Country clipper for several
weeks now so how does all that work. Oh Bother. Not sure on the Hydra cat as it
has some problems and they want to much for it but will keep checking as I could
use it at the new lot and for snow among other things. What am I thinking don't
I already have enough to do. Started on the weeding in the pond area and boy
what a mess that is with so many weeds we can't even see the pond. I pulled them
for about 3 hours with some breaks for water etc and hauled a whole trailer load
to the city brush pile. It looks some nicer now and is far enough along to start
the real clean up. How does all this happen. Wednesday another cool day and
Picked up the Country clipper and Brad and faith helped us pull some weeds and
clean up several areas. The Country Clipper works well and does a good job.
Thursday was just sort of goof off and play with radios, computers and toys and
all and some minor work. Found the pond was losing water so checked on that and
cleaned filters and all. Finished all the mowing here at home that Brad did not
get done and then mowed all the rental and Barn area. Friday dawned cool and
cloudy and we got about three sprinkles of rain but the rest just went south of
us. We sure could use the rain. Brad and the 5 kids came today along with Josh
and we cleaned up the cactus area, drive, walk path by garage, East end of
house, arbor area and garden area of all tree starts, weeds, brush etc. It was a
long and busy day and then we all cleaned ourselves up and went to Pizza ranch
for supper. I then took Josh home and went home myself but Mema and Brad and
Family all went shopping for school supplies for the Grandkids. Saturday found
me sleeping in some and then getting camper ready to go to Tammy's as soon as we
have some lunch at Brad and Heathers. Tammy is looking at starting her own
business and wants our input on some building things and costs. Heather made an
amazing lunch and we visited some and then off to LeMars to see Tammy and Ben.
After a quick partial set up we went to China Buffet for supper with them and we
seen the building she is looking at for her business. It looks rather nice and
we set up to see the inside tomorrow afternoon. It will need some serious roof
work and cleanup on the second floor but the part for the business is good
enough to open with just some cleaning etc. There is a basement also for storage
etc. I slept in this morning so I better get this posted and get moving. God
Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
7 August
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Picture from Dec 1986. Monday dawned with much heat yet and I did some
prep work for the roof repair at the machine shed and then did some weed pulling
and some prep work on the papers for the town meeting tonight and am not looking
forward to that. Went to town and mailed payments and picked up the stuff needed
for the roof work. Brad will be here tomorrow and we can work on that and on the
rental wall. Checked into the ARMS net and the radio is doing fine and
discovered some of the receiver noise was coming from the old Orion TV I have in
the office. When I unplug it the noise goes away. Will maybe get a filtered
power strip to run it on. Cleaned out the new hedge area and it looks like we
lost one plant so may see if there is one I can transplant from another
area. Tuesday came and Brad and I did the roof repairs on the Machine shed
and the cost was about $50.00 and about 5 hours labor. Brad did all of the hard
hot stuff so it would have been shorter if I could have done more. Any how that
sure beat the $1,000.00 bid I had to do it. Wednesday found me working on the
push mower and the weed eater and then doing the mowing at the rental, the barn,
and some here at home. The temps were much better and the humidity lower so it
was a pleasant day. I picked all of the cherry tomatoes that were ripe and took
that and some sweet corn in to Heather for the family. Got a call from Earl Mays here in town and will be giving
hayrides for there pumpkin fest on 8 October so should be much fun there. Thursday
found some more mowing going on and some tractor preparations for the Glidden
tractor ride on Saturday. Had to check all the oils and grease it and then do
some adjustments on the throttle but is all good now I hope and ready to go. I
may go on it this year as my first one. I would like to get a flag put on it
somehow for the rides and all so will see. When I went to pick up the trailer to
haul the tractor there was about 40 to 60 Canadian geese at the wetland so that
was very neat. Had some stands for some jacks welded on the trailer so it does
not lift the tow vehicle off the ground when loading and unloading. Had some big
solar & sun storms so the Ham bands have been a disaster but made it through
some of the nets. Seems like there is always so much to do and so little of me
to do it. Oh Bother. Friday morning came and I was unable to sleep so up at 4:45
AM and doing some laundry to help out. Most everything we have is dirty so that
should help some I would guess. Looking for some patriotic songs to make a CD to
play on the tractor run but once again the internet is totally useless for any
of that stuff. Not sure why I even bother with it. Did some more on the tractor
and got a mount for a flag up so now just need to find a flag that will fit it.
Takes a post about 1 1/4th in to fit. Saturday dawned hazy and overcast and
prepared things for the Tractor ride and headed off to Glidden. It was a fun
ride and then we went thru the parade for the Glidden fun days and the music I
used was Toby Keith, Courtesy of the red white and blue and Alan Jackson, Where
were you. I had two small flags on the front of the tractor and a larger 2 1/2 X
4 foot on the rear. It went well and we got a noon meal out of it so I had fun.
Then load up and get home and unload and was off to the rental to work on the
wall there. I got most of it done and just need to mount the coat hooks, put up
a shelf, and then fill holes and paint some. It came out rather nice I think. We
had many more geese at the pond and they were in the water swimming around so I
am so happy with that and may have some that like it and will return next year
for a place to hatch and raise there young. Well I better get this posted and
get moving for Church so God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, brother,
Cousin Uncle and all Lew.
31 July
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Another amazingly busy week and I met myself going to bed several times
when I got up. The heat has been really bad at around the high 90s with very
high humidity. Can only work outside for a while and then must go in and rest,
cool off and re-hydrate. Got almost caught up on all the mowing and such and
then began the RAGBRAI setup stuff for them to come through on Monday last. They
claim with the support crews and all there were about 25,000 people that passed
through. The bikers started to show up at around 8 AM and the traffic got heavy
around 10 AM and went none stop till almost 6 PM. Our town Population is 100 so
that was a lot of people here. I feel like our little Lucas looks in the above
picture. Wore Out!!! I also helped mom some and we got the library fairly clean
and useable again. Tuesday found me with some town stuff to pick up for the
rental hole in the wall and then some help with the tear down of things from the
weekend. Not a whole lot outside as my temp gauge said 98 degrees. Checked into
the Swan 14258 group but conditions were the pits so not much good there. Oh My
Gosh we got a text from our little Melody and she has been accepted to be a Miss
USA contestant. Wow and Wow!!! We are so proud of her and she is so beautiful
she could win it. No I am not just a teeny bit prejudiced either. The heat is so
bad we are now losing some of the water at the wetland to evaporation. Come on
rain and cool weather. Wednesday found me doing some work on antennas again
and have almost concluded that the vertical is not going to work the best for
this area. I am leaning towards a rotate able dipole for better direction
coverage and I seem to get better reports with one. I also got the roof vent
back on the barn so just need to nail down some of the tin there again. Thursday
found me doing some movie camera stuff from our Norway visit and that was
real pain. Technology sure does not make it easy but finally got it done. I am gathering
up some of the old pics of Bert to send over to the family there also. Then
Mom and I went to town for some stuff and we had the kids over for some supper
of grilled steaks and some Norway home movies. We also got an inch of rain which
cooled us off some and brought the water level at the wetland back up. Friday
came and I was told That the roof repair at the rental would be $1000.00 and I
about fainted. Two 18 plus foot 2x4s and the time to install and brace
them and then nail on the tin I already have. I figure I will do it my self. Yah
right like I need more to do. I then did the mowing at the barn and looked at
the machine shed roof and it may take me 1/2 day as I am slow but it would take
like maybe 2 hours work if that is what I did for a living. So $15.00 for the
2x4s $6.00 for some nails and screws and labor at $80.00 for 2 hours comes to
$181.00. So wow they wanted to make like $800.00 on a small job. I don't
get it no wonder our economy is in the toilet. I then mowed our set aside
and garden area. I then finished up the mowing by the city sign and called it a
day as I was not feeling so well. The mower that Iowa small engine has is still
not done so that is a bummer but they had to cut and rebuild the frame to get it
all in. Saturday found me not feeling so well as I was up all Friday to get
Zantac and Mylanta for the ulcer or headed to the bathroom at least 4 times but
skip that as it was not pretty. I slept in till about 9:30 and then got up and
had my toast and oatmeal and checked into the ARMS net. The band was much better
and I heard many nice signals so that was fun for a change. I have almost
decided on the dipole and maybe a long wire but then will need a balun and
antenna relay. I then ran to town around 11:00 for some medicine for mom and
picked up the 2x4 I needed so am ready there. I checked out a Honda Moped for
the neighbor and then came back home and just goofed off as it is super hot
again. When will this heat end I am so tired of it. Yes Kjell I am tired of the
heat and it is to hot as we have been in the upper 90's and at 100 for almost 3
weeks with heat index's of 105 to 120 degrees. Hope you and Natalie had a great
vacation. We miss all you guys and the cool temps very much. At 1:00 I had my
first cut of coffee as I felt some better and may just stay inside the rest of
the day. Finally got most of my external drives sorted out and now have the
general one for the pics and all the stuff we work on all the time, then have
one for mom for her stuff, and another for just movies and still another for the
music and Karaoke and Microke. My 50th class reunion is coming up this next
month so hope I feel well enough to go to it. We have lost some of the kids
already so that is not fun but would like to see those that remain. I guess
I am getting older. Just talked to Matt and Kris, Maryann and the Kids will be
here on the 8th for some school testing and then Kris will fly back. They start
school on the 15th here it sounds like so we are trying to set up a fair day
with Sean, Cody, Caitlin and Maryann if she wants to go or maybe she would just
like some free time. Either way we may keep the kids here a few days before
school as a mini vacation. So Brad and family and Tammy and family try to go to
the fair with us and as soon as mom and I get a day figured out we will let you
know. Sounds like fun to me. Yahoo!!! It has been a busy week so I will get
going here and post this. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother,
Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
24 July
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Wow and Wow what a ride and as you can tell no journal or posts for a
whole month but guess that does not matter as no one even noticed. At any rate
it has been and amazing month because as of the day of the last post we started
on our trip to Norway. It started with Tammy and Ben taking us to the airport in
Minneapolis for our departure flight. So there we are with our tickets and passports
in hand and our bags do not pass through security. Being rather nervous and
worried some already this was no help but I finally got through as I had some
razor blades in my bag and razor so just threw them out and I was good. Mom on
the other hand could not get her bag through the machine check so after 3 tries
and the inspector looking through it several times they hauled it off to another
area and checked some more and finally after all that they found nothing and
decided it was okay to go. So started our exciting and wonderful Norway visit.
The first leg of our journey was the flight to Reykjavik Iceland and it was very
nice and Carol did not rest and took many ocean pictures.
Icelandair
is a very nice airline with very reasonable rates. The landing is actually in
Keflavik and then we took a bus to the Hilton hotel in Reykjavik which took us
through a very flat land with what I assume was like tundra covered with flowers
that appeared to be Heather, but I am not sure. It was very scenic and different
from what we have ever seen.
In places all
over some one has piled rocks in a column but did not find out what that was
about but it did break up the landscape. Might have been property markers etc.
but they were all over. Oh well it was interesting and we spent some time
in the old town shopping area and seen some interesting sights there. It was
filled with sidewalk cafes and small shops along with some art areas like parks
and many other attractions. We then went on a whale watching cruise but we
did not see any whales but it was a fun ride anyhow and we seen Puffin Island
where the puffins come each year to have there young. They are able to live
entirely on the water except for there nesting period. Two days here passed
rather fast and then off to Norway for that next new adventure. Just a
little over a 2 hour flight and many pictures by Mom and we land in Bergen
Norway and are met by a bunch of the cousins. We are now in the land of the
midnight sun I would guess as it stays daylight all night. They took us up the
mountain lookout on a tram train and we had lunch at the top. Then back down and
the trip To Josteins for a grill out and much visiting before finally getting to
Johannes and Aaslaug's house where we will stay for the duration of our visit here. The
next day we went to some more of the cousins for an eat out. Early in the
morning before this Johannes took me out for a small trip around Gaulen. We seen
the house that Bert grew up in and some other areas he was in as a child. We
then went to the celebration of John The Baptist day there in Norway and had
some hotdogs and a good old fashion sing with Jostein on the guitar and Johannes
on the accordion.
It was a fun
time and good chance to get acquainted with many of the cousins. The following
day was a rest day so we had a full day of some visits to some of the family burial
grounds and to see Josteins church and some other area spots with a meal out
again in a nice fiord side restaurant. The following day Johannes and I did an
early morning walk and went up the mountain to feed the sheep some bread and see
the area. We then seen some more of the area and then off to take a boat ride on
Mikals son Frode's boat through many of the fiords with a stop at another eatery
for some food and it was another long day. The following day Johannes took me
for another walk in Gaulen where Bert had walked and showed me a small stream
where there was a small mill where he may have went to get flour from the mill.
We were then off for our Norway in a nutshell tour and this was another full
day. The time seemed to fly by and we did the long tour and seen many amazing
waterfalls and scenery and Norway is just a very beautiful country. We had
another great time at Oyvind and Solveig's and before we knew it the time to
head home arrived and we sadly set out on the return trip. There was never a
slow day or a day of doing nothing and so many wonderful memories and way more
than we could ever mention here but will try and add some to my pages as time
goes by. The flight home was uneventful and we got to Minneapolis at about 6 pm
on 5 July and were met by Tammy. We then collected our bags, went through
customs, and then traveled to LeMars and we spent the night there at Tammy's.
After a long sleep and some rest we started home on the 6th then and rested some
more. I did some mower work on the 7th, checked out the wetland and it looks
nice . Brad and the neighbor did lots of cleanup for us due to a bad storm that
damaged our barn, machine shed and took some trees down. On the 8th got
camper out and ready then on the 10th we headed for Nebraska to meet Matt &
Kris for there house hunting expedition for there move here to Offutt AFB.
On Monday
night I had a meeting back home for the lot we were trying to buy but that did
not work so that was a fast trip home and then back again. We then left there on
Wednesday the 13th and got home late in the evening on that day. While there we
went to a drive thru animal park and that was fun and we had some suppers with
the kids we made so they could just concentrate on there house hunting. Did the
mowing and finished all the mower repairs so now we are good to go. Did some
pond work and then on the 16 we headed up north to Kings point to celebrate Moms
and Stephs Bday at the water park. We stayed there until Tuesday and then headed
home again. What a summer this has been with all the heat and all the trips and
goings on.
This past
week then has been full of repairs from all the broken things from while we were
gone along with the mowing and getting ready for RAGBRAI as it is going
through Willey on Monday the 25th. I bent another blade on the new Toro and the
dealer does not know why so will check with the company to see what they say.
Why is it we always have to do all the work. Isn't Steph and our son cute in
there matching shirts. He is trying to get one different for each of the kids.
Brad was over on Friday to help at the barn and get my ham antenna back up so we
got some of that done and the antenna is fine but I got a little sick feeling I
think from the heat so we just visited some till he went home then. It worked
out well and we got much done. I finished knocking down the weeds at the wetland
and the tree area there so it looks some better now and the grass is coming up
nice and the tree area is full of the Alsike clover so it is looking nice again.
I hung the Toro mower up in some ravine and ditch twice yesterday and had to get the tractor to pull it
out both times. Oh Joy. What a roller coaster ride this past month has been and
we are still about exhausted from it all and the unbearable heat. The temp
stayed around 100 degrees for a little over a week with the heat index at 114 to
120 and now we are still in the middle to upper 90's. This is not Iowa so not
sure what's up with that. The air is working at least but the windows are always
steamed over so you can not see out. Maybe we should move to Alaska or Norway.
Well complaining won't help so I will post and get moving. God Bless Be Good Do
Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
19 June
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Well mom and Tammy fed the little raccoons for several days and one
did not make it and that was sad. All the kids got to see them and even hold
them and we finally found a DNR registered person to rehabilitate, raise, and
return them to nature. They were really cute. My big frog came out of the pond
and set on the seat to pose for a picture and just like all my GK's he stuck his
tongue out but I missed it in the photo. The week has been a very hectic one and
Tammy was here to help Mom and I again and that sure was fun. We got many plants
planted and put in pots so they should be good for awhile now. We planted an
almighty pip in my area and had to move our man some to make it fit. It gets
about 5 feet tall and about 2 feet wide so can't wait to see that. I had to mow
the tree plantings at the wetland as it was really full of weeds but it looks
much better now. The grasses, clover and timothy are doing so well there and the
planting on our Island is up now and starting to green it up. Soon the prairie
grasses and flowers will be up on the rest of it and that is very exciting. The
water is all around the island now so with a little more rain it will start to
get full. Never did find the glasses I lost but the old ones from just before
them work better and I like them more anyhow as I can see better with them. I
still take them off for watching TV though. I put two of our old bird baths on
some new stumps as the old ones were completely rotten and kept falling over and
I raised them some so you we can see them over the hostas and from the patio. We
have a opossum wandering around the yard again so may need to trap that if it
becomes a problem. Had some wind this week and had many tree branches down again
so made several trips to the burn pile with them. Got most of the computer stuff
back but it has a problem with the email from juno if I get a post there from Face book.
If I click to see it for some reason Juno just shuts down but only with the FB
notifications. The only other problem I see is with the MPEG movie or video.
When I click them it starts but just never opens and if I open them with media
player the media player just shuts down similar to the FB thing. Must be
something in some security setting some where with the IE 8 upgrades etc. I
notice my audio kind of warbles also and not sure if all this is related or
what. Why can't they just leave stuff alone when it works good. I did get all
the new Sony PMB movies back I thought I lost so that was fun. Why can't the
computer guru's do that when you take it to them. Oh well I can get on my old
ford tractor or in my old Nash Rambler and it works every time the first time
and is completely fixable. All we have now at best is throw away junk. I am
doing this post early as I will not be available on Sunday for it so we will see
you all at the next time I do a journal page. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love
Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
12 June
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Our kids week is over and all through the house not a creature is stirring
not even a mouse. Whew it was a fun week but wow am I wore out along with
Mom/Mema. We helped the kids build a lean-to as shown in the picture and did
some run in the sprinkler stuff along with weed pulling with Aunt Tammy and TV
movies and it was a rather busy time but much fun. Monday came at high temps
again and not much done outside. Had to water the plants by the sign I put in
and then we had the city council meeting to go to. Not much accomplished there
so will need to see how it goes at the next one. Tuesday came with much heat
again and we went to town for some glasses for mom and for missy to get checked
for her back and such. Did some checks on the lot we are buying and it is all
finally in place and just needs to be paid and recorded. Did some checks on the
disc work for a neighbor and it will work well. Wednesday arrived very warm and
humid again and I did not feel so well. I slept in and then ran to get the
garbage out and turned on the radio and checked in to the ARMS fellowship
net. Then rested some fed missy and went to load the landscape bricks for the
flowers by the sign so put them out around the sign, they look very nice, and
then back to take mom/Mema in town for another eye appointment. It was maybe to
warm and still need to disc for the neighbor tonight. Could someone please get
rid of this heat. The humidity dropped some as the front started in so got the
harrow-disc done and that went well. The temp really cooled off in the evening
and then early in the morning we got some rain so that is great. Started on
working on some weeding in the landscape areas and helped mom with dishes and
some clothes washing. Back too the weeding and then the rain came again and we
really need it and it was about 1/2 inch so wow. Did some shopping for our
vacation in the evening and by Friday morning we have about 1 3/4 inches of
rain. Many storms around us but all seemed to pass us by. We are thankful for
that. Missy is doing some better so hope that is all fine for now. Friday was
overcast and heavy and we got to spend the day with our little Crystal. We
went shopping with her some more and I got way to much stuff for the trip but it
is getting exciting. I will have mostly new outfits so hope that works okay.
Saturday came with a bright clear day and it was cool so I really enjoyed that.
The wetland has much more water in it and is looking real nice so far. It may
get full enough to put some fish in it. The tree is okay so far and hope it
works out well. Started all the mowing and then finished it all also as we have
our little Faiths Bday to go to on Sunday afternoon. During all the Saturday
mowing I managed to lose my glasses and I was wearing them but do not have a
clue when they fell off. Guess I really need them huh? Saturday evening I caught
3 baby raccoon's and not sure what to do with them. Maybe it was the mother I
caught a while back as they were really crying for her. I set the live trap to
catch her or daddy if it was not and then don't know what to do with them If
not. I guess I may release them where I let the other one go and hope for
the best. Well I better post this and get moving if I am going to get that done.
God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
05 June
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. The kids took off Sunday last for Mel's special Bday gift and it was a trip
to New York city. We don't think she knew but she had many clues and might have
had and inkling. Monday came and the kids left K.C. for Minneapolis and our
tree man pictured tells us she still is not sure where she is headed but the
next leg will give it away when they get on the plane for N.Y.C. May the good
Lord watch over them on this trip and grant them much fun and joy. The day
started at 70 degrees by 8 AM with some wind so it is a warm one for
memorial day. Fed the birds and the kids started to stir by 8:10 so had to get
moving with them early. Text came at 8:30 and Mel has it figured out so that
drama is over and hope she is very excited as the kids planned and worked very
hard to make this a very special gift for her. Fixed breakfast for the kids and
then checked into the ARMS net but conditions were poor again. Steph slept in so
will do her some food when she wakes up. The week has been a complete
roller coaster ride but it is fun. we got the lean to for the little ones
started and I was able to get the mowing completed at the rental and most of it
here but it is ready to mow again. Made some repairs to the disc for the three
point lift assembly and ran it some at the wetlands. Then brought it home to do
the new lot we got so I can get it seeded. Managed to get the lot mowed and then
picked up all the concrete someone dumped there and hauled it off. Our neighbor
helped us out with that and that sure was good. He got the bobcat out and lifted
the large pieces on the trailer. Finally figured out the grape jelly that disappears
at night. We have a raccoon that comes up and climbs the post and eats it all. I
change the jelly and liquid around and then he pushed on the rod for the jelly
till he had it pushed over far enough to reach and then ate it still. May just
bring the jelly in in the evening. Got most of the computer programs back and
even got the calendar set up so that works good again. Computers sure are a
mess. Had a flat tire on the tractor trailer so got that fixed but I see the
filter for air on the tractor is leaking some oil so need to patch that. Hauled
part of the drain tile to the new lot and cleaned the trailer. Still need to dig
a few small pieces of concrete at the edge of the lot before I disc but will
work on the kids lean to some first. By 12:00 noon on Thursday the temperature
reached 91 Degrees and most of my get up and go has went someplace and left me
here. Oh Bother. By 2 PM we have most of the lean-to for the kids done and am
wore out from the heat. Stopped for lunch and then some disking and to town for
Pizza Ranch supper. Got some of the disking done but need to move some more
cement before I can finish it so will wait till later. Okay it was later so
moved the cement and finished the disc work and then got some seed and seeded it
since it looks like rain and hope we get it. A nice easy 1 to 2 inches would be
very nice just take all night to do it. The Good Lord will handle it I am
sure. During this work I broke one of the posts I put in so need to reset
that. Still need to fix the 3 point hitch as I am not pleased with it yet. Will
get it right eventually. Friday the temperature reached 100 Degrees here
on my thermometer so it was a very warm one. The week flew by and we had
fun with the three Grandkids and Brad, Heather, and Mel arrived home on Saturday
and we had a turkey for dinner for them. They had a great trip it seems like and
it sounded fun. Finally caught the raccoon that was giving me fits and the guy
for the wetlands got all the seed drilled in we needed so now just need the rain
to get it all going. Guess I better get posted and move along. God Bless Be Good
Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
29 May
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Our little Melodie has graduated and now is getting set up for college
in the fall. Yes her diploma was all signed so she must have turned in all her
library books, band uniforms and instruments and her track uniforms. There was a
wonderful turnout for her party and it was a fun time. My oh my she has grown up
so quick and is becoming such a very pretty young lady. Elaine came
Sunday for her graduation and then spent the night with us and we did some work
on her truck tailgate on Monday. I did all the mowing we had to do and then
Elaine decided to stay another night so we did some TV and then went to bed
after her and mom chatted for awhile. Tuesday found me sleeping in till about
7AM so must have been tired. Gave the birds there food, visited with Elaine and
mom till Elaine left and then went to the barn and did the mowing there along
with cutting the weeds in the wetland tree area. The surveyor came to the house
then so went home to see the survey and get the stake layout figured out. Then
got some posts and put some PVC on them in the corners for the markers but two
were a different size so will need to get some other PVC for them. Just my luck
it seems. Again Wednesday I slept till 06:30 AM so must be wore out. More
rain and if it keeps it up for the day we will officially have an island at the
wetlands restoration area we are doing. It will need much more water to be full
but it will be an island surrounded by water at least. Found out the post I put
in at home were the same size but the store had 2 different size PVC pipes
marked in the same location and mixed together so one worked and on one the wall
was two thick to fit over the pipe. Crystal came over also to help Mema and
visit some so I picked her up while in town to get the new pipe and pay for the
willow tree we are putting on the island. The new pipe worked well so got
the lot marked there and that is good to go. Thursday I picked up the
willow tree and planted it on the island and also got the grasses for there and
put that down. The water is getting deeper and more is running in from the
ground water so am happy with that. Did some more mowing and the grass is really
growing now. Mom and I planted some of the stuff for the yard and landscape and
that sure was much fun. It was so good to be doing that together and enjoying
our accomplishments. Thursday evening the computer crashed and all was gone so
Friday I took it to the shop to see about getting it going again and it is going
but I think they did some server installation stuff as it is really goofy now.
Will see next next week after the holiday. I did get most of the files back that
were important but will need to rebuild some. Saturday came and I did the bird
stuff and some computer redo things and then helped the neighbor cut down and
cut up a tree that was a problem and then mowed the sign area again. Still need
to get at the rental for mowing. Did some more rebuilding on the computer but it
is different and Can not make the lotus programs work so have lost the calendar
stuff from all the past years. Guess I may get a new one or try and rebuild this
one, not sure yet. Woke up very early this morning as I did not sleep well so am
doing more stuff for our computer programs and am excited for the grandkids
coming today for the trip the kids are going on. We will have 4 of them this
week so that will be a treat I hope. Mema has much planned for them while here
so we will be busy. At 5:30 the day started to get light and just think in 21
days the days will start to get shorter and head back towards winter. Am waiting
on the guy to drill the flower seeds at the wetlands and then we will have that
done for awhile. Wow is this ever a busy year. I reckon I better get going here
and post this and finish of the computer stuff and head to church. God Bless Be
Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
22 May
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. What a fast short week this has been. Got the mulch done in the yard
area and that looks really nice. Spent the rest of the week working on the
wetland area and it is ready to be seeded as the picture shows. We had much rain
after the dirt work and the disk work so you can see in the picture that water
is already starting to collect there. I spent two whole days just disking it to
get rid of all the clumps and dozer tracks. Now we need to work up the island
area and get it planted and the willow tree there. I got one big rock from there
also but need to figure how to get it in the truck to haul. Also much of
the week I spent on the graduation guest book for Melodies after grad party.
Then spent two days there helping the kids get set up for that. We also spent
till 11 PM last night helping Mel pick out a dress for the ceremony today so had
some fun there. During the week I worked in some mowing at both places and mixed
up oriole and hummingbird food and then feed the birds several times. We have a
Cardinal nesting in the hedge just outside the door so that is neat and can't
wait to see the babies. Missed most of the radio stuff this week as I was way
busy. With all the wetland work I did get the disk going very well and can see
how to make some improvements there for the lift and the towing. The tractor
worked out very well and has amazing power for the work it does. Will use it at
the lot we bought to do the seed prep work. The surveyor is coming this week to
set some pins there so we know just what we are getting and for me to see how
much work we have to do. I better get moving and post this and head out to
church as Elaine will be here when I get back so God Bless Be Good Do Right love
Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
15 May
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. The goldfinch are here and spring is in full swing but it has become to
warm to fast. 80 Degrees to day and will be up to 90 the next 2 days. Okay I
need to move north. Did some mulch stuff with Crystal & Josh today and put
the new air conditioner in the kitchen. Picked up the kids mower today and
started the work on it also to see if I can get it going good. The battery seems
bad but will let it charge for a day or so and see if it will charge. Well
it was the next day on Monday and no charge so it is not any good. Got a new one
and will get a maintainer if the mower does not charge it but after the acid was
added and it said full charge it looks like the mower may charge it but time
will tell. Hauled the old widow air to the landfill and got two loads of mulch
and spread that around so only have 2 more areas to go to be done. Ordered the
air cleaner for the mower for the kids also as it is missing and that can make a
mess for it running. Checked on the deed etc for the lot we are buying and it
all seems in order so will proceed until it does not fly and then check it out
more. Saw an Indigo bunting today and the hummers are back so need to get out
there feeders and that means the Orioles are here somewhere also. Watered all
the new plants as the heat was very bad today and some looked droopy. Mom was
about wore out today so we did a little nap at around 5 but I only got about 20
min as the phone rang and could not get back to the doze mode. Tuesday came
bright and early for me and was off to get mulch at 7 am and then unloaded it
and went in and checked into the Fellowship net. Just a short time there and
back out to get more mulch. Hauled mulch most of the day and worked in the
yard. Wednesday came and we put up all the oriole feeders and the new jam feeder
for them and it is great as they were all over them all in short order. Hummers
are here in full swing and it is so wonderful to see them all back. The
cardinals we tried for many to keep that are now staying here year round have
built a nest in the hedge right by our door and I can see them as I go out and
could even touch them. It will be so cool to see the babies when they hatch. The
Good Lord has surely blessed us with so many wonders if we just take the time to
open our eyes and slow down for him. Thursday Tammy was here briefly for some
coffee as she brought Crystal back home from her trip to Sioux City. Friday came
really fast and the week was sure a rush. We had one day at 100 Degrees and now
back to 40's. Friday night came and we went our little Faith and Sarah's dance
recital and that sure was good. I only have one more mulch area to finish 1/2 of
and then most of that will be done. The renters called with the fridge not
working but got that going so it was okay. Did much work on a special project
for one of the grandkids and it is nearing completion so am excited for that.
Did much mowing and then started some for the second time this week. Mom and I
planted some of the patio flowers and planted her mums in the pots. I had to
water the sign plants I put in twice and they are looking real nice. The water
company replaced the water meter and the regulator at the rental as it was not
working right and had lagged way behind the usage so we owe a bunch there. Go
Figure. Got the kids mower going pretty good and need to pick up the air cleaner
parts and it will be good to take back. I stopped all else then and went in to
get the parts and did the mower up and it works great again and then returned it
to the kids. Checked into the Swan Group and all worked well there and set up to
get copies of the minutes of the meeting for the city council so I will get them this next
week to see what they really voted on or doctored the minutes. Turned in all the
papers to the mayor for our lot purchase as we do not need them till they are
all signed, notarized, recorded and all that stuff. It has been raining the
last three days so the grass and plants and all are just popping out of the
ground. It has been a busy week for me so will post and God Bless Be Good Do
Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
8 May
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. What a start to the week with Crystal & Josh here Sunday last after
church and helping us with some of the yard stuff. We laid some retaining wall
bricks, put up the Martin roosts under the Martin house, did a whole pickup load
of mulch, picked up a whole load of junk metal from the city brush area, and
even had an Easter egg hunt for them since they were not able to make any of
those days here. Then mom made a great supper and and we took them home. Also
got some really cute pics of Sarah and Faith in their dance outfits as you can
see. Monday morning then I hauled the metal to salvage and got the money for it
for the city. Did the mowing at the rental and barn and the drive belt on the
push mower came off so fixed it and then the deck belt on the rider came off so
had to fix that also. Finally got that all done and went to the town meeting and
that was a mess and not sure what happened there. We may have wasted all the
money we spent on the lot there so we are not landlocked. Made out a letter
on the issues and will address them at the next meeting. Tuesday was a blah day
and just did not get started. Did some outside stuff and some small mowing and
yard work. Wednesday was Mom's Bday and she was up early so did the birthday
stuff for breakfast, her gifts later and some Yan's carry out for her lunch. We
just goofed off and watched TV and all that for her Bday. Thursday we went to
town and did some shopping and got a plant for the rental and some for the sign
for the city here to dress it up. We ate out and spent a good bit of the day in
town just looking. We got a couple urn's for the patio to plant some small
plants in and I finished most of the mowing here and at the barn and rental. The
new gas tank for the propane arrived and we set that in place but could not
drain the old one so set it in front to run till empty and then will switch them
out. We have another one coming for home here and it will be the same so will
wait till it is empty before we change it out. The ham bands seems to be some
better so did some checking in on them. Am back on the dipole and working good
so far. Put the antenna back up for the 2 Meter emergency nets but now the radio
has a problem. Oh Bother. Maybe someday I will get it all together at the same
time. Friday I planted the burning bush at the rental and the lilacs and day lilies
at the sign to the city and they look nice. Did some patio cleaning and then
went back to town for the pulley for the big mower and put it on and put all the
shields in place. Hauled more mulch and then got ready for the birthday/mothers
day celebration the kids are having for mom in the evening. We ate at Yan's and
then came home to do the gifts and that was fun. Tammy took Crystal and Josh
home and I finally got to bed at 11:00 pm. Saturday was and early morning and
found me unloading the 1/2 load of mulch left on the truck and then running
after more for the day. The kidney area is done and two more to go. Got one more
load for a total of 2 before the landfill closed and got that going in my area.
Starting to look real nice. Watered the sign plants so they should be good for a
time now. Used a garbage can and my small trailer behind the mower. Then I mowed
the garden area, got out the swing glider for the patio and set that up and put
up some new ornaments and moved some of my old ones around. Put the garden hose
case out with the hoses and hooked that up so now I can water without dragging
out a hose always. Sure is a lot of spring stuff to do. It felt like summer
yesterday as it was around 80 degrees and we just skipped spring and went
straight from winter to summer with way to much wind. Mom and Tammy spent most
of the day in town and her doctor visit says they found nothing wrong in the
tests they ran so will see what is next. Fired up the radios and the band was
full of contesters all over 20 meters. What a waste of perfectly good time but
to each his own I guess. I did finally contact Hank WA0VTO who I very seldom can
hear so that was nice. Went back outside and mounted the squirrel nut house and
then just filled the finch feeders again. Wow are they ever going through the
food. Guess it's time to post and get moving. God Bless Be Good Do Right
love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
1 May
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. We had an amazing Easter at the kids and the day was warm and sunny so
it was perfect. We got to hunt Easter eggs and had a great meal fixed by
Heather & Brad and had some wonderful company and dessert. We went home
about 4:30 and took a 2 hour nap and I went to mow some of the sign area and
then just vegged for the night. Monday came with some sun but turned overcast
and gave us some ran late in the afternoon. Mom and I went to town to pay the
estimated taxes, update some bank CD's, get some groceries, pick up some ham
antenna repairs, some fence for mom among other stuff and we had lunch and got
some rabbit off spray for our new hedge plants. Was a busy day but got a lot
done. Tuesday dawned cold and wet with much rain here and more coming. Took
down my dipole antenna and did the repairs on it and then reinstalled it. Had a
goof off day with mom and then we went to town for her doctor appointment and do
some town things and redo some of our CD's and get some groceries. The doctor
was not much help for the blood pressure being high but will do some kidney
checks for some blocked blood vessels. He added some more medicine but it does
not seem to be going down and it is really bothering me because it seems extra
high even for hers. We are running some urine tests now with some more
blood tests and then the scan for artery blockage in the kidney next week. Wednesday
came with some sunshine and a small bit warmer but the wind came with it so was
still a bummer day. Had problems with the push mower and the engine would not
even turn. Discovered some mice had hauled a bunch of walnuts into the blade
clutch brake assembly and they were all jammed in so could not even pull the
rope to turn it over. Had to tear it all apart and then got the shells and all
out and got it going. Went to town for some lettuce for our supper salad and the
did the concrete work for the final setting of the martin house tower. Stopped
at the rental on the way to town and checked the propane and it is okay.
Hauled one load of brush to the burn pile and did some ham work and then called
it a day. Mom and I had supper and then watched some TV and headed to bed. Thursday
was really warm at about 70 degrees but it was windy so did not like that. Mom
and I went to town for doctor stuff and shots for our little rat dog missy and
then we got some groceries and picked up lunch and went home. We took a small
nap and then I got up and checked the internet connection as we have lost the 4G
connection for my 4G card so it has slipped back to 3G. Verizon tells me they
are not sure when it will get fixed yet. Wow we run the world with this stuff
and the whole 4G network went down all day Wednesday all over America.
Does that sound like a plan. Later on Thursday evening we went to Brad's to
watch the 3 little ones since the big girls had a concert and Brad & Heather
had to make some potatoes for the snack stuff there. We had some potatoes
and watched the concert and then headed home and got there around 10PM. Did some
TV news and went to bed. Friday found me up at 6:30 with the sun coming up and
no wind. Picked up a load of sticks in the yard to get ready to mow, warmed up
the radios for the net, and took all the pictures off the cameras from the girls
concert. Band noise was quiet but so was the signals so guess I just can't win.
Still no news on the 4G service and they are not sure when it will be back up.
The battery in my small Sony is going bad so ordered 2 new ones last week along with an
external charger so hope that works out ok. They were really cheap, and that may
work pout fine as they came in late in the day Friday and the charger worked
just fine so time will tell. Mom and I worked outside much of the day and
accomplished much so it was a good day. We got the 14 new hedge plants in the
ground, pulled out a dead tree truck and planted a rose of Sharon there and
weeded many areas and I even got some mowing done. Were we ever tired. Saturday
came with no sun overcast skies but the temp was about 50 degrees so not to bad
there. I slept in late till almost 8:30 so what's up with that. Any how did
some mowing and got all the middle and the push mowing done so just the set
aside, garden, rental and barn area left. Ran to town and got a load of mulch
and some blocks and broken cement for Crystal and Josh to help us with tomorrow
while we do yard work. Then back to town for the kids to get them some plants
and our plants for the planters and such. Took them to Burger King to eat while
there so that was fun. Got the Cherry tomatoes planted but that was it for the
planting. While in town I looked at the kids mower and it needs some work so may
bring it home and fix it up for them. Did jump it and get it started and then
put my motorcycle charger on it till tomorrow to see if it will charge and hold
a charge. It is an old mower as it is one we gave Tammy many years ago but it
still runs good it seems. Did some radio check ins Saturday also and the
computer 4G broadband is still not going. Guess I better get posted and get
to church so God Bless Be Good Do Right love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle
and all Lew.
24 April
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Rock picking in the wetland is completed for now but they seem to keep
growing there. Tammy & Brad came and helped and Mom was there and walked all
over and picked rocks and she even drove the tractor some but she did not like
that much so she got off and did more rocks. She was also the picture taker so
we forgot to get one of her working or driving. It is starting to take shape and
is looking real nice. Sunday last after Church and lunch we walked all over our
yard and checked things and mom went along and that was so much fun and then we
decided where we want the martin house and went to town to get a commercial
martin house and see if that works. While there we got mom and Easter bonnet and
that was fun because when you ask the sales people for an Easter Bonnet you just
get this dumb look like Huh what is that. Go Figure. Monday found mom down
with a cold and sniffles and I ran to town for the stuff to put the martin house
back up. I Also checked on some insurance and on some of the lot problems we are
having with our purchase of some of them here in Willey. Paid for the gravel on
the drive at the rental while in town and got some groceries. Then started to
put the martin house together and wow what a job with all the little screws and
all but got it done in about 2 hours. Sure hope it works with all that mess.
Tuesday found us goofing off as we had snow, rain, and sleet and it was cold
out. Tammy came back over to help Crystal with some stuff and then spent the
night with us. Wednesday we got the call our disc would arrive the next day so
started the preparation work for that. Had to get the trailer here to set it on
if we need it. I picked up the final pipe to mount the martin house on the tower
and assembled that to the martin house so now just need to set the tower. Also
worked on the property papers we are trying to purchase and sent out some survey
letters for its use. Late in the day Tammy got ready to start home and I noticed
the tires were really bad on the front of her car so we went in and put on two
new ones and she started home. About 2 hours later she came back to spend the
night again and help us with some work we needed to do on Thursday. What a
special little girl she is. We are so blessed with so many sons, daughters, and Grandkids
etc. Thursday morning found me not sleeping very well so was up before the sun
at about 4:30 AM so did some speed tests etc for our slow network. I had called
Verizon the first of the week and no luck so far but it seems some faster
Thursday morning although it is very intermittent, not a steady fast speed. Went
out about sun up although there was no sun up and started on the place for the
tower for the martin house. Got the cranberry bush out after much digging and
then began the hole for the tower and fixed the mount for the top of the tower
so the pipe for the house will connect there and be secure. Took a break at 8:35
to check into the ARMS net and then back at it. The band was not so good for
check-ins as signals were way down. The girls slept in some so will be a late
start for some of the stuff and the the freight company called to delay the
delivery till Friday for the disc. Finished the form for the concrete work and
set the steel rods for the tower and then mixed and poured the concrete and
leveled and smoothed it. Tammy and mom tore out the hedge by the garden shed and
cleaned that area and got it ready for her new hedge plants. How exciting is
spring. Got one of my survey papers back already and it was very positive for
what we want for the two city lots so that helps our cause. Tammy left around 4
and sure will miss all her great help and it was so much fun with her here
helping. Had some rain in the evening so covered the cement so it could dry
without cracking. Friday came with some more rain and drizzle but was warmed to
about 40 degrees. Ham bands are not any good and got word the farm mower is done
and back so now can get going over there and get the mowing and cleanup started.
Also the disc came today and Walla it does not need assembly just needed some
lift parts repositioned and I have done that and it is ready to use. Saturday
found us not headed to DeEtta's for the family Easter as Mom was not feeling so
good. I hauled the disc to the machine shed with the new trailer and will need
to get some rear supports for loading the equipment as it lifts the tow vehicle
off the ground but works really well. Finished up the martin house and cracked
the cement so will need to reset all that so it will stay put. Sure do have some
poor luck sometimes. At least the disc mounts on the tractor very easy and the
hydraulics work fine with that. Will end up putting a cable to the tower
the martin house is on for one of my ham antennas so hope that works out.
Crystal and Josh came over and helped some on Saturday, mom made my favorite
meal and then we watched a movie and it was really sad. Crystal and Mema did
some girls stuff while I showered and shaved and then I took the kids home. What
a week this has been and it is Easter Sunday so better get this posted and head
out to church. Happy Easter, God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother,
Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
17 April
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. We had the Birthday party for our little love Sarah Saturday last and we
had so much fun and believe she liked her gifts but she is growing so fast and
such a little cutie. The big girls Melodie and Stephanie had there prom on
Saturday also. This was Melodies
senior prom and Stephanie's junior prom. Are they just the most beautiful girls
you have ever seen or what, of course I may just be the slightest bit prejudice.
Hee Hee. Sunday last after church I just goofed off and did a little work at the
rental and home. Did do some fun bird stuff and enjoyed the nice weather till
the storms came but it all missed us. Monday was an extremely busy day with some
weed spraying and 20 bags of mulch at the rental and some over seeding and then the
same at home along with some seeding at the new property we are getting. Then
got out the big mower to mow around the town entrance so it looks nice for
entering town. May keep it mowed if I have the time. Then did some weed eating
in preparation for some landscaping plants and called it a day. Tuesday came in
at 40 degrees and I checked into the ARMS net and then switched my antenna back
to the dipole and am running on just the radio at 120 watts as the 1200W bit the
dust so will need to get that fixed. I turned it on to warm it up for a net and
listened some and then went to get some coffee and when I got back there was a
smell of burnt electronics and not a single radio, amplifier or wattmeter light was
on. Oh bother. I turned them all off and then brought them all up one at a time.
Everything came on but the linear had no power out. On checking it looks like I
lost a tube and some resistors so will do a complete check later. We went
to town Tuesday afternoon and we now have all our passports and plane tickets
for our trip and it is very exciting but a little scary. Still checking on some
hotels for a layover. I did get some parts for the amplifier while in town and
put them in Tuesday night but it is not fixed so will need more work there. Went
back to the vertical antenna as it has a much lower noise ratio and lower
SWR. Wednesday I found another tube was bad and that is the second one as
one is what started the problems and took out two resistors. After replacing
that I got it back up and running an then slipped the cover back over but in
replacing the tubes I bent one of the plate caps up to get them in and then it
hit the cover and since I had the power on took out a diode in the power supply
bridge circuit. Ya Ya I know turn the power off and unplug when working on them.
All back up and putting out 600 watts again so all is fine. Will pick up the car
hauler I bought today and then will do some work with it and will be able to
haul the Nash or tractor with it so what the heck am I doing. Have I lost my mind
or what. Wait I would need a mind first so all is well as I can still chat with
all the voices I hear. Wow Wednesday night mom called me when I was looking for
a disc for the ford tractor online and she found exactly what I was looking for
in a catalog I told her to throw out so may call on it tomorrow. Amazing and she
is such a blessing. Thursday morning found us at the wetland area by the
barn picking up rocks to get ready for the dozier work. I picked up the car
hauler I bought on Wednesday and we used that for the rock hauling and it all
worked out well. Tammy and Brad came over to help and afterwards we went home for
lunch and they helped with the martin house the wind blew down and now we just
need to figure out if we want it back up and if so where. Thursday about noon
the rain started that we need so much for the wetland area and the new grass
seed so glad we were done with the rocks. Also caught a raccoon in the live
trap so just released it at the set aside. More rain Thursday night and got the
disc we need ordered for the wetland cultivation before we drill in the natural
grasses and flowers. Friday brought more much needed rain and the earth has
turned green and it is really amazing what the Lord does in the springtime. The
flowers are in bloom and all plants are waking up from their long winter rest. Went
back to the dipole early Friday also but the band is really bad and had a hard
time with the ARMS net. The linear and all is running just fine again so I guess
I have that all fixed for now. Guess I better get going and order the
dipole, Balun, and antenna switch so I can get running good. Iowa small engine
picked up the Deines mower Friday also so now maybe that will be ready to mow at
the barn and rental as the grass is about ready for the first cutting. I get so
anxious this time of year as I want to get outside and get moving but I realize
it is still early and there is time. Give me patience Lord. Saturday came in at
about 35 degrees with wind and was very chilly. Checked the fellowship net and
got checked in but the band was terrible again so not very good communications
on the net although I was able to run some relays to control so that helped and
was fun. Later in the day I checked into the Swan group and that was some better
but still not good. I went out and put up the yard ornaments I got for my Bday
later in the day and that was sure fun. Then mom and I had some supper and
watched some TV that I dozed through and then went to bed. better get moving for
church so God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and
all Lew.
10 April
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. It is done!! Wednesday is here and the week so far has been full of
sorrow mixed with joy as things are now better for Mom. May our good Lord keep
her in his arms till we all can rise together in his grace. What an amazing
mother. I was numb most of the weekend after moms passing on the 1st of April.
Monday was a very busy day with the town meeting preparations and our trying to acquire
the small lot we needed for the access to our landlocked 2 lots and preparing
the work for a purchase of some city property to get to them through this lot.
Tuesday was moms service and the trip was long and we were not able to stay over
for the burial on Wednesday as we had the planters coming for the wetlands area
we are installing. We put in 220 trees and bushes and they were really nice
plants. I used the Ford tractor to haul the trees and plants and by the end of
the day I was beat. I almost fell asleep at the table eating supper at night.
Thursday was get up early and get the Timothy, Orchard grass, Perennial rye and
Alsike clover seeded where the
trees are before the Lord gives us the rain he was sending for them and the
grass in the afternoon. It took most of the day Thursday to get the seeding
done. Next will come the bulldozers for the pond building and
then the drill for the native and wildflower plants to be planted. What a full
spring this will be but it is fun to see the things come to life with all the
Lords plants and rains as the earth is reborn anew each year. I have got it
okayed to put a small island in the middle of the wetland about 20 feet or
so to put a willow tree on so that should be nice I hope. Late in the
evening Thursday the rain came so that was really nice for everything. Caught
a cat in the trap but took it over to the neighbors as it was there little
girls. Ask them to keep it home. Was out and going at 6:30 Friday to get the
mower started at the barn but no luck as it has no spark. So ordered new checks
and redid some insurance on the farm and took the seeder back to Earl May.
Checked into the ARMS net and helped Tammy load stuff in her car. Later
went back to get the mower going, did some checking and put in new plugs but
still no spark so will have small engines get it if I don't get it figured out.
Saturday came with the temperature at 45 degrees and very foggy and is supposed
to reach 80degrees today. Did some more checks on the mower and it appears
to be the engine safety kill module or the magneto in the flywheel itself. Oh
Bother. Checked into the ARMS fellowship net and then prepared for the Bday
party of our little love Sarah. We got home and watched the movie War Of The
Worlds but I fell asleep through most of it and a very hectic busy sad week is
over. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all
Lew.
3 April
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Sunday last was not feeling well from all the dumplings I ate but wow
were they ever good. Mom and I ate some breakfast Ben made and then took another
nap and then visited with the kids before loading everything in the van and
departing for home at around 3PM. We had some dessert on the way home and then
when home we unloaded the van and I checked the pond and bird baths and were
fine but the baths needed water added. We watched some TV and then off to bed as
we both were completely exhausted. Monday dawned bright and sunny at about 20
degrees and it is very pretty. I feed the birds and broke the ice out of the
bird baths and checked into the arms net. Mom and I went to town later in
the day to get her blood pressure checked and see if she needs a higher medicine.
We then started the process of finding her a new doctor as the one she sees now
is just no good. He says things like we are only looking at one thing today, I
don't have time for that, or other such nonsense. Well surprise I pay his salary
so we are going somewhere else. Tuesday I got a call from Ellen early in the
morning and she told me mom is not doing well and may have only 3 or so days
left as she has stopped eating and is shutting down. God bless her and watch
over her if so as she is the most amazing and terrific mom ever and the good
lord must need her with him for now till we can meet again. After that my
Tuesday kind of went to heck and did not accomplish much. Measured for some
drive gravel and walk gravel at the rental, put in some softener salt and ridex
there and that was about it. Did some bills I needed to do at home and ordered
the gravel for Friday delivery and then checked with the Swan group. Mom's
blood pressure is still not doing well but have added a different pill to help
lower it so hope it works. Wednesday came at 30 degrees and got all the garbage
out and hauled it all from the rental so it is gone also. I wrote a small poem
for mom yesterday and sent that out so it will help with our sorrow I hope. It
is tough but mom is 95 and she has had a marvelous life so it is in the Lords
hands. Got in the arms net but the bands are still a mess. My 2 meter antenna
broke off in the wind so need to fix that also. Oh Bother. Am back on the
vertical for HF so it is working fine. Well it is working fine but am still
getting better reports with the dipole so how does that work. The vertical is
quieter and lower SWR but the dipole has better signal reports. Heard some ARMS
net hams I had not heard for some time so may be better with the dipole. Elaine
called and mom is not breathing well this morning so hope that is not the sign
we are not ready to accept but all in Gods time and I need to remember that.
Have set out the live trap as the cats are here wanting to eat the birds and are
using the landscapes as litter boxes and I am tired of them. If you have pets
take care of them or get rid of them as you don't need a pet then. Have the
packages wrapped for Norway and just need to mail them now. I pray we get a
handle on mom/mema's blood pressure as we may have to cancel if it stays so
bad. This week is sort of a mess with all that is going on and I can't seem
to focus well. Friday we got the renters moved in and they seem really happy and
on Friday morning I had some gravel delivered for the drive and by the deck and
Brad & Josh came over and helped move it around to the deck area. They
worked very hard and it looks really nice. I then mailed the packages for Norway
and later on in the evening at 7:20 we got the call we were expecting but not
wanting, mom had passed and her trials here on earth are over as Revelations
Chapter 21 Verse 4 tells us and she has joined our Lord and savior with our dad
in god's kingdom. Praise be to God. In memory of my mommy God bless and
keep you till we meet again.
Our
Mom
The
Good Lord made a mom for us
And she was there
each day
She looked after
and guided us
Till we could find
our way
She nurtured cared
and loved us all
But gave us all our
space
And all along her
guiding hand
Led us to this
great place
The place the Lord
prepared for us
When our life on
earth is done
So if we follow
what she taught
The battle will be
won
She worked so hard
for everything
And always gave her
best
So now our Lord
will call her home
Where she can truly
rest
She will watch
through heavens floor
And see us as we
play
And then like
always in the past
Her hand will show
the way
Her way was kind
and always gentle
With always others
first
She always seen the
best in all
And overlooked
their worst
She always did the
good Lords work
And to us was just
on loan
So now her earthly
work is done
And God wants her
back home
So though our
sorrow may be great
Just think of all
the fun
When we shall see
our mom again
As our earthly work
is done
So shed a tear for
missing her
But always make
them glad
As she just wants
the best for us
And doesn’t want
us sad
So smile a smile
with tears of joy
And lets not make
her wait
As our Lord is
calling her
And waiting at the
gate
By
L.
L. Orcutt
29
March 2011
27 March
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Sunday last after church I did some lunch and coffee and visited with
Mema/mom for a little then got busy. I started with getting all the finch
feeders repaired, filled and up. Took all the electric cords and heaters for the
birdbaths and pond out and put them all up for the summer. Leveled some of the
feeders and put out new corn for the squirrels and food for the birdies. Picked
up some of the winter garbage blown in and found some of the old cardboard boxes
the kids used last winter for sleds. Put all the garbage in cans to haul next
week on garbage day and then fixed both pole saws so we can trim the apple tree
for mom/Mema. Ya I messed them up last week trimming trees by getting in a hurry
instead of doing it right and bent a bar on one and the chain on the other. Oh
Bother. Did some more updates on my pages and renewed the grandkids page so about caught up there. Monday
was overcast but warm and the crocus that are peaking out have a bloom. I
started on the fence by the garage so I will be able to set the pines the winter
snow and Ice bent over. Went to town and got a pump for my frog fountain and
started the fixing on that. On the way in I stopped at the rental and trimmed
the burning bush and got some of that landscape ready for spring. Did some
checking on the lots the city wants to sell and we are going to buy one if we
can so our two lots 5 and 8 are not landlocked with no way to get to them. May
really stir up some controversy as their are others that want it also. Mom and I
took a small nap and then got the sandbags out of the pickup and since they were
getting very rotten and the sand leaking out I put all the sand in the drive and
will need new ones next winter. Got all the fence free from the ground and posts
and got one post hole in so made some progress and then called it a day. Tuesday
came and was warm again at about 45 degrees but overcast and very damp out with
signs of a spring storm in the feel of the morning air. Completed the pump
install in my frog fountain but need to cement some leaves and cattail back on
it. Feed the birds and started the chasing away of the starlings that want to
roost in our trees. Not much else done except to visit with the doctor to see
about moms blood pressure and what to do. Will try the pill double for awhile to
see how that does. Ham bands are a mess so not much done there either. Oh
Bother. Wednesday came and went and just did some small amount on the
fence I need to get finished so I can set the pines. We went to town for some
small shopping and info about our trip and the day was over. Thursday came and I
dug several post holes and set all the posts for the fence. Then I stretched the
fence and stapled it to the posts and that part is complete so can get the pines
right now Mom came out and helped me with that and that sure was a lot of fun. I
then worked on the pond and algae and cleaned the filters and filled it and all
the bird baths. That pond is turning into much work but it is fun and I enjoy
it. Tried to check into the Swan group but it was so noisy and the bands so bad
it was a mess. Conditions have not been well for some weeks now. Friday
found us heading up to Tammy's in a snowstorm but with temperature what it was
that did not last real long and there was less snow there than we had at home.
We met Tammy around 9AM and did some goodwill shopping and then had lunch at
Perkins and did some more Goodwill and Dollar tree shopping before getting to
her place at around 4:30. Was able to find her some apple decorations for her
kitchen during the Goodwill visits. We did some visiting while Tammy started
some chicken for some chicken and dumplings for Saturday and then the kids took
us out for supper at the Eagles lodge. It was a very good meal and had a great
visit back at home before finally getting to bed at midnight. Saturday was
up at 7AM as the bed we got was not the best for sleeping. Its a double high air
mattress so not sure I will like it and then Tammy got up at about 7:30 and made
us some coffee. We had a good visit and mom got up and we did some
breakfast and did some more visiting. Ben got home and we chatted some and then
went out for lunch and then off to look at some clothes for me. Did not get any
as they did not fit well so will need to lose weight and then will get some new
ones for our trip to Norway. We got a couple groceries and then were back to
Tammy's and she started her special chicken and dumplings and mom helped her
clean the chicken some. It was an amazing supper and I ate way to much hence the
pants and shirts don't fit me. I did a small help with the dishes and we just
visited. We then played some games and mom and Tammy went through some of the T
shirts she picked up to make the rugs on the hula hoops. I went to bed but
did not sleep well and now I better post and get ready to head home. God Bless
Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
20 March
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. Spring is in the air and its time for some tractor and hay rides so lets
get moving. After church Sunday last I stated a crock pot pork roast and then
made mom/mema some chocolate chip cookies. Went on the roof and did some dipole
adjustments and removed a part of my vertical to take into town and see if I can
get it fixed. I checked into the Swan users group and the bands were wide open
and so much fun. After supper I did the dishes and did some washing while
watching TV and then off to bed. What a busy Sunday. With Monday I slept in some
and took the antenna trap to town to get it welded and see if that works.
Cleaned the pond and treated it for algae as it has much from over the winter
and then added it back with water and then cleaned the filters. Tuesday we did
some more house work and some washing of bedding and turned the mattress. I
finished some changes to my web sites and they all seem to move well now
although Tammy says the music does not play for her. It does on mine and on
Matt's so not sure why if won't for her. The new 4G seems to be doing fine. In
the evening we went over to Crystal & Josh's for supper and they did some
really nice fish, potatoes, and corn and it was very good. We visited some and
then came home. Wednesday found the antenna part ready so I picked it up and
installed it and it seems to work well. Mom and I finally completed getting
all the Christmas things down and packed and now I just need to get them in the
attic. I took the Rambler into town to pick up the antenna part and that was fun
and was warm enough to run with all the windows down. Thursday came and the temp
was 55 degrees at 9 in the morning and that is really nice. Is going to be warm
and I see the crocus are peaking out of the ground so spring is officially in
the air. Have went out several times to work outside but it is still a little
muddy where I need to work so will wait some. Sure getting anxious to get moving
with the outside things. Heard back from the RAGBRAI team Megacycles and they
may want to camp in our yard when the ride comes thru Willey this year in July.
We will se how that will work. We went to town later for some groceries and
went to moms hair appointment and then did the passport photos and turned in all
the papers so that is complete. Time is really flying by. Friday found me
working in the yard by the drive to get things ready for the pines there to be straightened
and the fence reset. Ended up getting all the blowers, saws, mowers etc going
for the summer and trimmed some broken limbs in the tree by the road. Had to air
up some of the tires on the trailer and the mower so will need to keep an eye on
them. We got a call from Crystal and her taxes are back and she has the money we
loaned her to help out and I am so proud of her for thinking of us right away
and having all of it. I hauled a huge load of brush to the burn pile and then
picked up the city snow fence, someone had taken down, and hauled it to the city
garage. I started a weight loss agenda this week and sure was sore and tired in
the evening. The darn cats are running all over our yard and using landscape for
litter boxes so am going to start trapping again. The city is selling some
property just south of us so could not sleep thinking about that and should we
bid on it but turns out it is not where we thought and like I need more work
than I have so guess we will forget it for now. Anyhow was up at 4 AM Saturday
just checking that out and thinking about it. Mom got up to as I must have woke
her up with my sleeplessness. Did some speed tests on the 4G broadband modem we
have and some are like 2Mbps download and .7 Mbps upload. That is really fast
compared to the dial up we had at 23Kbps areas but is rather pricey. Went
back to bed about 5am and got some sleep and then outside to do some more tree
cleanup from the winter Ice. We went to town later and Got the money from
Crystal and took the kids shopping and then out to eat and on home to see some
TV and off to bed. Guess I better post and get moving again. God Bless Be Good
Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle and all Lew.
13 March
Melodie
Elizabeth Orcutt
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. What a week we have had. Monday started off with 20 degrees and light
snow falling. I got stuff ready to take down the Christmas tree so guess we will
get it down early this year. Hee Hee. Mom and I did the tree and the rest of the
Christmas stuff and rested some. I checked into the ARMS net and the Ham
airways were wide open with some good sun spots helping. Got the VZ Access
manager finally figured out with the Zone Alarm window so reset some stuff there
so I do not have to select where to put the network every time I get online.
What a struggle that was and Verizon nor Zone Alarm Check Pointe could figure it
out. Why do we spend money on things that do not work and the sellers know Zero,
Nota, Zilch, nothing about them. Oh Bother. Got an Email from a Fellow I was
stationed with out in Burns Oregon on my first assignment after Tech school so
that was great to reconnect although I just barely remember him. Also got a call
from from Virginia Mason from Garwin Iowa that married an old friend Larry
Eckhart that I introduced and was wondering if I wanted to come to a Garwin
class reunion for our class even if I did not graduate there. The world is
getting smaller every day. My graduating class at Linn Mar is also having our
50th reunion this year. When did I get that old. Wow Just got word that Tomorrow
8 Mar 2011 at 11:00 approximately we can go and attend the signing of all the
adoption papers for Our Little Melodie. She has always been our baby Grand
daughter but now the name will match also. Wow!!! Wow!!! She has been ours for
almost 8 years now but her biological mother would not release anything and Mel
now is 18 and can do as she feels in that respect so she is going to do it
herself. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. AMEN!!!! Oh My Little love
Papa & Mema love you so very much and are so very proud of you. Okay YIPPEE
it is Tuesday night and she is ours for real and Oh My, My Gosh, and Wow!!!!.
Tammy came down and Crystal & Josh came and all the kids skipped school for
the ceremony and I almost blubbered a couple times and it was amazing. We then
all went out to eat and then back to Brad and Heathers to relax some and then on
home. What and amazing day the good lord has given us. Tammy came over then to
spend the night rather than drive home as it would be real late so I made some
pork chops, special potatoes, and some cheesy veggies for supper and then some
TV and off to bed. Wednesday arrived with 2 inches of the white fluffy stuff and
it was garbage day so got that out and did dishes. Checked into the ARMS
fellowship net and then updated my Homestead site builder so it is
current. Put all the registrations I received on the vehicles we have so
that task is complete until the others arrive for the rest. Tammy stayed a
second night and then went home on Thursday. I did some web page updates and
changes and then gave up and went to bed. Friday the new keys for the cargo
carrier came so tested them and then got the carrier off the van and back in the
garage. I did a yard walk around and got the big mower started and ready for the summer but needed
to charge the cub as the battery was dead. Did some more work on the computer
and got another external hard drive so mom can have one of her own for her
stuff. On Saturday did mostly goofing off. Did some breakfast and checked
in on the ARMS net and let the dog out and fed her. Cleaned up in the kitchen
and did the dishes. Worked some on the stories page for my web site and then
went out an got some more of the yard stuff ready to go. Got the Cub Cadet
tractor going for mom to use if or when she wants to work outside and carried in
her large library plant in to fill with water and treat as it did not look very
good. Put it in the sink for mom/mema to soak good and then when drained put
back in the library. Late in the afternoon I then went to town for groceries and
to mail some letters and deposit some tax returns. While there I gave our little
Crystal a ride to work and then got some candy for Mema and me. I set up all the
hard drives and mom/mema made some labels for them so we can keep them straight.
In checking for a power converter for moms C-PAP and th computer it dawned on me
that the laptop computers may already work on 120-240, 50-60 cycles and sure
enough it does and so does the C-PAP so all I need is a plug changer from our
plugs to the Norway plugs. One task down and millions to go. I guess I
better get this posted and get a move on it as it is the spring ahead time for
the clocks. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle
and all Lew.
6 March
It's Sunday
morning and once again, from western Iowa in America's beautiful heartland, here
is Lew. What a week we just had with three of the grandkids with us for 3 days
and moving one of the other granddaughters home to Carroll and moving her into
an apartment along with Tammy and Ben staying here some while they did that and
Tammy and Crystal here for some job interviews and WOW I am wore out. Sure glad
they did all the work. Mema had some TV time with two of the kids but our little
love Sarah was in another chair and missed this picture. Brad & Heather got
back from there Youth group outing and that was amazing but they were exhausted
also. Monday dawned at 5 degrees with full sun and sure was a beautiful day but
I slept in till 8am. The day was busy for us and we finished it with
meeting with the renters to sign the papers to hold the rental and receive the
deposit. They paid that and all seems well now. Tuesday came with a temp of 20
degrees out and sunshine again with a forecast in the forties. Mom is back at
Crestview care facility after her fall and the hospital stay and the girls have
her set up for some surveillance from hospice to help out. It is very scary at
her age with a fall like that and the girls are doing very good to check the
fall and how it all came about. Their stress has to be great and I pray for them
daily. Her pneumonia seems to have improved to the point of not a problem
and I went over on Friday to see her. She has some really bad bruises and her
left arm and hip are fractured so she is pretty much bed ridden. Memory is not
good and she may not even know who I am but it was a good visit and she really
perked up about 5 minutes when Tom arrived. It was a very long day for me.
Wednesday we took the kids to lunch and then we picked up a washer and dryer for
Crystal and then went over on Thursday and I installed that for her. It works
really well. I somehow lost the keys for the Thule roof cargo carrier so
Saturday I went to see Jason who is practicing to be a lock smith and he was
able to get it unlocked so we can at least get it off the roof. I then checked
online and was able to find the key for it so ordered three of them. Oh Bother.
It was a rather cool day at only 30 degrees so did not get any outside stuff
done but had the kids over for some salmon on the grill. I took the truck in for
the spring repairs on the shackle and mount as I could not get it loose myself
and the rivets needed torched out. Anyhow they got it fixed after getting the
spring shackle also. Had the kids over for a salmon supper last night and the
drove them home. I made potatoes, Cheese veggies, special cottage cheese and the
Salmon and it was good. I ate too much. Checked into the ARMS fellowship net
several times and ran some relays for them so that was fun. The radio with the
wire dipole is really working well so far. Have received many great on air reports with
it. It has been a very busy week and a very productive week so better get
this posted. God Bless Be Good Do Right Love Papa, Dad, Brother, Cousin, Uncle
and all Lew.
27 February
Mel on the
JumboTron at youth group WOW!!!
2011 
