Jim Elliott's Adventure's

Sunset vs Sunrise

2012-01-07T17:49:00.000-08:00

Sunset!
Do you ever think about Sunsets..
Just why are they so fascinating for so many people, this person included.

As I sat on the beach this afternoon, I thought wow, after the sun goes down, will we see it again.

Is it the end. The end of whatever we are experiencing.

But almost every morning while lying in bed, I get awakened by the light of sunrise touching my eyes.

It looks the same at sunrise as sunset. Beautiful. Except for the most important part, it only gets brighter during the day.

Here in Fla it gets brighter while the warmth increases.

There is a balance. Just pay attention.

Watch as we lose the sun progressively at sunset while we gain the sun progressively at sunrise.

Maybe thats why so many Senior Jokes Stories talk about the sunset light.....as we slowly lose it.

A Favorite....AND THEN IT IS WINTER

2011-12-30T19:12:00.000-08:00

And then it is Winter.

You know . . . time has a way of moving quickly

and catching you unaware of the passing years.

It seems just yesterday that I was young,

just married and embarking on my new life with my mate.

And yet in a way, it seems like eons ago,

and I wonder where all the years went.

I know that I lived them all...

And I have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and dreams...

But, here it is...the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise...

How did I get here so fast?

Where did the years go and where did my youth go?

I remember well...

seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people

were years away from me and that winter was so far off

that I could not fathom it or imagine fully what it would be like...

But, here it is...

my friends are retired and getting gray...

they move slower and I see an older person now.

Some are in better and some worse shape than me...

but, I see the great change...

Not like the ones that I remember who were young and vibrant...

but, like me, their age is beginning to show and we are now those older folks

that we used to see and never thought we'd be.

Each day now, I find that just getting a shower is a real target for the day!

And taking a nap is not a treat anymore ...it's mandatory!

Cause if I don't on my own free will ... I just fall asleep where I sit!

And so

now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared

for all the aches and pains and

the loss of strength and ability

to go and do things that I wish

I had done but never did!!

But, at least I know, that though the

winter has come, and I'm not sure how long it will last...this I know, that

when it's over... it’s over....

Yes , I have regrets. There are things I

wish I hadn't done, things I should have done, but indeed, there are many

things I'm happy to have done.

It's all in a lifetime...

So, if

you're not in your winter yet...

let me remind you, that it will

be here faster than you think.

So, whatever you would like to

accomplish in your life please do it quickly!

Don't put things off too long!!

Life goes by quickly.

So, do what you can today,

as you can never be sure whether this is

your winter or not!

You have

no promise that you will see all the seasons of your life . . . so,

live for today and say all the

things that you want your loved ones to remember . . .

and hope that they appreciate

and love you for all the things

that you have done for them in

all the years past!!

"Life is a gift to you.

The way you live your life is your

gift to those who come after.

Make it a fantastic one".

DO SOMETHING FUN!

BE HAPPY!

BE THANKFUL!

Aug 25, 2011 Golf with the boys...

2011-12-30T18:40:00.001-08:00

Its a wonderful morning here in chicago.....getting hot and its already humid.

No sun just what looks like rain clouds.

And plenty of rain. Its been raining for a couple hours making it hot and wet outside.

Anyway, I played golf with the 6 & 8 yr grand boys yesterday and I beat them....whoopee.

It was a very short course a par 3 with 18 short holes...just perfect for the boys,,,especially

when their mom Lori carried their golf bags.

Being young boys, they hit low line drives close to the grass.

Me, being an old man, used my pitching iron and hit sky high (really high) balls

The boys were amazed....not knowing that hitting the ball high but far from the green is not good.

But it looks good.

It got warm around 85 and that made it uncomfortable. WE had to play yesterday as they start

school tues.

I think eating at Steak & Shake was the highlight for them. Especially the chocolate

shakes. You know kids....but even gramps loved the cold cold frosty type shake on this hot day.

No we didn't keep score and we didn't play every hole...well I didn't..

Tonight I'll be able to tell the inlaws about how I played great golf........more telling about

all the boys great shots that almost went near the cup.....or went straight of ran thru the sand

traps.

Sept 25, 2011 Sunday with the Boys

2011-12-30T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
Awoke late but it felt so good. The sun is not shining but there was a wealth of warmth at home and Panera.
Now we're getting ready for the boys soccer game in Palatine. Then maybe a small meal before heading home.
Hope you all have a good day.

And as Sec of State Jessie White told the grandboys a few weeks back. Do something for someone else.

=========================================

Owen played goalie and made a desparate dive and with his fingers extended just tipped the ball away from a goal
=========================================

Tie soccer game. Our boys came from behind with two late goals. I think they had fun

When it was over.....our manly grandkids went to their female friends homes for the afternoon play.

Like the movie NO TIME FOR SGTS.

I guess its natural for the grandkids.

NO TIME FOR THE GRANDPARENTS

today.....thats good.

Its Sunday and that means

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL.....BEARS vs PACKERS

Bladder Exam

2011-12-30T11:23:00.000-08:00

Well, the bladder exam...weds...it went ......and i'm glad
I was so shook up mentally....i just can't understand....i know its nothing but I asked for sedatives as i was hyper.

they were nice and we all did our job....a nice looking nurse applied numbness meds and she would force an anesthesiac into my thing....that was bad enough.......I had white knuckles from my hands squeezing together.

So even though she was pretty and had a nice figure....I did not think about her at all, even though she was holding and doing something with me.

I know it wasn't any big deal but just made me nervous.

I sang my pain/nervous song ....da da oh oh.....daaaaa daaaa oh my for the dr. Just grunts and groans.

then when it was almost over relaxed enough to sing OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MORNING.

it only took 30 seconds for the exam...5 minutes to prepare.

Then the dr discussed it with us.
no surgery or seeds put it the prostate...as my heart is too weak....so radiation for 5 days in a roll for 6 weeks.

and the worst part....Testosterone feeds the cancer.....so pills to stop me from producing testosterone.....so I will have Hot Flashes....just like women.

Maybe I'll have breasts.....I wonder if I will enjoy them like I enjoy womens breasts...ummmm
what do you think.

also, my skin will get nice and soft and i'll have an excuse to cry while watching movies.
I'll also have the ability to talk about nothing for hours while shopping.

But its ok,,,,,I can handle it.

Have a great weekend and maybe I'll see you next year.....

Christmas 2011 Celebration

2011-12-27T09:15:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone,
we had a wonderful Christmas. We couldn't go to Mcds as it was closed.
And ate on the lanai. Eggs, bacon, pancakes and hash browns.

Wow a big Breakfast.

As we were on the lanai,,,,the lanai singers with the Collins (Paul, Mike, Diane)
sang Oh What a Beautiful Morning. And we had an audience outside listening.

All that matters is that we enjoyed it and of course laughed.

For dinner we had our Neighbor Marge over and made here eat
some raw Prime Rib and then went next door to the collins' for dessert.

where we had K's ho ho ice cream roll cake.

it was good ate 3 pieces.

then came home and skyped the kids at Jills house......great to see our kids having fun together.

Jessie did most of the talking, mark showed us how thick his hair was...Jill smiled and made us laugh.
Jimmie and the boys loved being on the computer and opening gifts....Lori talked a lot

Sara, Molly, Colin and thomas all ran around passing out gifts and even Jack and Deirdre said hello.
The dogs all 3 made their appearances....sometimes the front and back side of their personalities.
Especially the Doberman, Dewey. Little Max was picked up for the camera and Princess Britany sort of
mosied by

And the best thing. When we said goodbye....we didn't have to get dressed in winter clothes or clean
up....all we did was hit the disconnect button....

thats it and the bears lost in a good fight. A few mistakes hurt them bad otherwise
they would have beat the hated Cheeseheads.

jim

No Oxygen For YOU.....

2011-11-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

After coffee at Panera this morning, we tried to get some oxygen.
The Air people told us that they needed the test results within 48 hrs of testing to get the Oxygen from Medicare. Its been a week or so since the test so now we have to take another test somewhere. You would think someone might have mentioned it to us.

Karolyn was upset. Everything we do, it seems we have to take a step backwards. And she's nervous that soon i will be complaining that its too cold up North and I'll start whining: I WANNA GO TO FLA.

Too much pressure all together and she showed it for a few moments this afternoon.

Its not nice to see her crying and I realized that she has been told that Jim has a really bad heart and something on the lungs besides the Pulmonary Fibrosis. Things don't look good for us spending our Golden Years together.

A little hug just doesn't do it for her. But she is strong and we've been thru similiar stuff for a couple decades now.

Like Roseanne Ann Adana said: If its not one thing its another.

First day at coffee...since the dr

2011-11-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

Tues:
The morning was interesting.

Went out to Mcds for coffee and talk. And met my coffee friends.

I was late as I slept in but they were still there at 8:30am.

The first words out of their mouth of course.....You're Late....

Next was Well, what did the dr tell you.

I told them I was confused and didn't know exactly what was going on with my lungs. I didn't talk loud and tried to just keep the attitude of all our breakfast conversations. Light and fun and a little descriptive.

Explained a little of what was going on and of course got some looks but then we talked about the usual stuff.

Pat, discussed Greece and the problems with them.

Phil, was talking about his personal problems.

Mr. Lee was talking but no one could understand. Finally, I understood....Jimmy..what you go were and now i leave...

But with his smile we all laughed.

After coffee and a $1 burrito I went home. Talked to K who insisted we do all the things the dr told us to. Oxygen, Petscan and meds.

Did it all and returned candy to Walmart and shopped at Costco. Its so interesting sitting by the eating areas and watching the people walk by. All so different...You never know what you will see.

But first WEDS we go for coffee and again a few questions from all my Panera coffee friends.

I don't mind talking about the lungs. Its good, but I think about them too much.

So thurs morning at 7:15 I'll be taking the test for 2 hrs.

Halloween Doctors Visit

2011-10-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

Just got back from the Drs visit at the U of Chicago.

Well, first i have to get a Petscan??? for cancer.....for that spot....they don't think so but want to check it out.....say if it is cancer which they doubt ,,,,they just cut it out.

They keep saying they would like to have a biopsy for Pulmonary Fibrosis but my heart is so weak the procedure might kill me.

So if the Petscan says something they will do surgery

Also, he doesn't think that med in Germany does any good from experience with it.

When i walk my oxygen level goes way too far down and could cause my heart to go kaput....so he wants me to take oxygen when i do anything physical....walking, bike riding...airplanes..
etc...Of course I said yes, and because the level is so low,,,the gov will pay for it.

So much more information. Dr and asst....talked to us for 45 minutes with the xrays--cat scan results on their monitor...pointing out slice by slice all the things wrong with my Lungs.. .holes,, honeycone?, ,,scaring and scaring all over.

He said the lung dr up here did a great report but that the equipment U of Chicago is so much more powerful and thus more details....than Ressurections.

He compared the photos and you could see clearly the new photos.

Jill went with us and drove ...an hour in slow traffic....we had breakfast there for 3 of us and it was only $12. 3 coffee's...scrambled eggs,,,hash browns and toast

Dr was happy/friendly and encouraged me to go to Fla.

In may he scheduled the lung tests again to see if any change...if so ...maybe biopsy

I'm sure i will remember more later....I will let you know.

Pre Halloween....fright...

2011-10-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Its Sunday evening and i'm about to jump in the sack. I don't know how much or how soon I'll get to sleep.

Seems like what I thought was a deep chest cold or some other chest problem.

Well, it might be something called Pulmonary Fibrosis.

After a pneumonia attack a couple years back Dr. Warner said I had some scar tissue. It might be the kind that stays the same or some that I don't want. The kind that spreads across the lungs. It turns them into cement...my word....into a sort of fiberous that doesn't do any work like moving the oxygen around.

So, I had another Dr check me out and he told me I had Pulmonary Fibrosis....and I should just go to Fla and relax.

I asked if it was going to kill me like it killed my brother.

He laughed and said Hell No, your heart will kill you first....Don't you know you have a very weak heart?

Well, that wasn't a good answer for me or my family. I searched the web and my daughter Jessie had a couple dr friends who suggested a PF specialist at the U of Chicago. They would try to get me a rush on the appointment date.

Dr Imre Noth office called and said that I should come in early Oct for tests and return on Halloween for a interview with the Dr.

At that time he would tell me if there is a treatment for my PF. There is no cure but there might be a treatment. The treatment might stop the progress of PF. Which I certainly would be happy with.
I won't guess what other options might be there or lack of them.

I'll write soon about what the dr says.....but soon thereafter, I will leave for Fla.
talk later
jim

Aunt Adeline's

2011-09-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

During the past week we went to Aunt Adeline's funeral mass/buriel and luncheon. Here are a few photos.

Trouble at Panera

2011-09-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

WELL!!! Every Monday I go to a large group of Senior ladies in Panera. About 12 sit around a table and I try to sneak up to them. Then, I jump out and say LOUDLY,
HELLO EVERYBODY and then just a minute of small loud conversation with a lot of laughs.

Today at the next table was a group having a business meeting. One approached me and said their meeting was being interupted by me talking loud and I should be quiet.

I am never rude, but told her in a rising voice that I do this routine every Monday for 2 minutes and for the rest of my Life every Monday I will do the same thing. Now leave us alone.

I was so mad i walked away from the lady friends who all had their mouths dropped open. I felt so sorry for them but I was upset.

When I was leaving Panera, My ladies all screamed at me GOODBYE JIM, SEE YOU NEXT WEEK, with the biggest smiles on their faces aughing and giggling the entire time.

I never heard them all raise their voices before. They were not going to let some younger woman shut down their fun.

Maybe she learned a lesson, leave the seniors alone,
I guess you can still have fun when you get old.

Thank you ladies----you certainly made my day. Photo of my ladies included.

smoke and golf

2011-09-15T18:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Well, smoke is getting into my eyes today.

There were brownish clouds way up high yesterday and today.

And the smell of someones house burning in the neighborhood.

Turns out its just a big forest fire in Minn that the smoke is drifting all the way to Chicago and beyond.

People with the usual health problems have been warned to stay inside.

So, I'm inside with all the dust and cat hair.......much heathier I'm sure.

Have a good day......and maybe I'll tell you about my 50 foot putt.

Oh heck,,,,i'll do that now

Yesterday I played golf with my son in law Mark at a very easy 9 hole golf course. I moved up from a par 3 for the day.

There are no sand traps and just a few bunkers with wide wide fairways.

One hole was a par 3....my kind of golf. 149 yards with a big big Oval Green.

I used a 8 iron and hit it high but way to the right of the green.

The hole was way on the left of the green about 50 feet away.

But something was different. I could easily see the path the ball should take to be close to the cup.

The other golfers in my 4 some....hit their ballsoff the green and them chipped them back up onto the green.

Mark was about 20 feet above the hole and just hit a really nice putt downhill toward
the hole stopping about a foot away.

It was my turn and everyone was saying Come on Jim, hit it close.

I had no intentions of hitting it close.....I only thought No Big Deal to put it in the hole.

I practiced a few swings and then stepped up and had the smoothest stroke hitting the ball just solid in the middle of the putter.

The ball didn't jump off the putter but started to roll with a decent speed.

It took forever but started out going up hill above the hole for about 6 inches and then curved back down toward the hole and almost stopped.

But it had one more roll and that was just enough to put it in the hole.

Tom, Lucas and Mark all jumped in the air screaming as if I did something impossible.

Me, it was meant to be and expected. A 50 foot perfect putt.

Thats my golf story and i'm sticking to it.

jim--Oh did I tell you, I beat Mark by one stroke 43--44.....I must be like wine...getting better with age.

A Day At the Softball Game

2011-08-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

Thursday we went to a Chicago Bandits Professional Softball game at the Rosemont IL, New Softball stadium at the Exhibition complex.

Our team was losing the entire game until the 7th inning.

Score was 5 to 4 with two out and one on first base.

Suddenly the earth seemed to move, silence hit the crowd as Big Bertha moved to the plate.

Batting from the left side of the plate.......the large baseball player looked like she couldn't move very fast.

The count went to a full 3 and 2.....Bertha seemed to smile.

The pitch was near perfect.....as low and far over the plate as a strike could be.

Bertha seemed to be caught offguard but was committed to a swing.

Her arms reached for the pitch and hit it with the end of the bat......while she grimmiced and the ball jumped off the bat low but hard.

It slowly rose toward the outfield and was still rising as it flew over the center fielders head.

It started to lower but disappeared over the center field wall for a WALK OFF HOMERUN.

Bertha looked like a struggling wildebeast running the bases......and approached her entire team at home plate and the umpire....with his eyes on home plate. As she sort of jumped and landed on the plate....the ump called a home run and the crowd of almost thousands cheered.

It was a fun night...hope you enjoyed it too.

Adventures with Randy & Bob

2011-07-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

Thursday, our friends from Vandalia Il, came to town.

Bob and Randy.

They wanted another tour of Chicago so we agreed to take them when we took Sara to Oak st beach for her job.

So we parked the car and walked the beach, then drove to the south side neighborhood where our President got popular....Hyde Park....

after that we stopped at Ricobene's for the best Breaded Steak Sandwich.

We dropped them off....went to see the boys play golf and then got back together with Bob and Randy at SPUNKY DUNKERS donut shop in Palatine.

I had Randy look thru a window into the cooking area where he waved to all the cooks.

A young woman who goes to Palatine HS and is in the National Honor Society was friendly to Randy.

Randy acted like a man, and immediately fell in love with Rita Rodriquez.

It was so nice when she brought her camera out to have a photo taken with Randy.

She said after working there for 4 years no one ever paid her a compliment except Randy.

I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoyed the adventure

Part #2 Photos of the re-union

2011-07-11T20:33:00.001-07:00

2011 Elliott Re-Union

2011-07-10T20:57:00.001-07:00

Hi Everybody,
We had a wonderfull 2011 Elliott Re-Union in Wis.

A lot of folks showed up from far away. And we made it from Chicago which was just around the bend.

As usual I will start the photos with all the lovely ladies. Maybe later I will include some of the men.

Love you all.

Rain Rain Rain....

2011-06-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Its been about 30 days and nights of rain.

We've almost completed the Ark.

Hope to have room for all of us.

Wait, it stopped,,,,the rain.

No sun but just dreary clouds.

Good, i can put that project on hold and take a nap

c'ya
jim ----

My Sara Without a Job

2011-06-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Maybe you remember I sent out photos of Sara graduating from the City of Chicago Park District Life Guard School.

We live in the very NW corner of the City of Chicago. 7200 N.

150 feet from Park Ridge to the West and 2 city blocks from Park Ridge to the north.

So today my granddaughter got her assignment from The Park District.

Its only about 10 mile drive thru the city.

To the wonderfull Garfield Park 300 N. Central Park ave..

For those not familiar with Chicago, it is in the Murder Capital of the World.
I worked as a Detective in that area and made a ton of overtime with all the murders, shootings, rapes...etc.

If that area of the city was a country, it would rank like 15th in Murders.

Its such a nice spot to send a blonde 16 yr old girl.

She will fit in with all the other blonde girls who are victims of horrible crimes.

Of course she will not go, fearing for her safety. Shit! I carried 2 guns and 2 extra clips when I worked that area. Its not too far from where I was shot....a long time ago.

Chicago,,,,the city that works.....if you have clout...

Can't We All Get Along.

2011-06-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

Can't we all get along.

I know I get about 150 emails a day.

Some are personal.

Some are humorous

Some are meant to be Political Humor.

Some are meant to be stupid polictical humor.

Some are meast to be all about SEX.

Sometimes, it is difficult to check each email out for truthfulness.

And as you would ask JOE C. and he would tell you....WHAT IS THE TRUTH?

But I consider emails as just conversations with a variety of people.

Some make silly or fun statements.

WE DON'T ALWAYS ASK THEM TO PROVE THE FACTS TO US.....
some would get angry.

Some would think you might be challenging their honesty...in other words CALLING THEM LIARS...

Thats never nice or good. Or something to suggest to a Serial Killer....

Maybe you could check email truth out and send the truth to the EMAILER....and open
their eyes with kind, educational words.

And Joe, your response was at least twice as long as Craigs.....a little wordy.

Oh...look at this email.....so VEErrry Long....maybe too long.....but I have so much
more to say....I know, I'll send another email.....and in the next email
I WILL REVEAL THE TRUTH.....

Oops, can't do it now.....South Park is on.

Its Raining Its Pouring

2011-06-10T19:18:00.001-07:00

3rd Try St. Ferds Dinner

2011-06-04T19:56:00.001-07:00

It started with an idea of Mary Ann DeSimone.

Would you like to get together on June 3 at Andrews restaurant in Park Ridge. Maybe we could let a few other St. Ferdinands alumni know and we can have a nice dinner.

Eight of us showed up.

The women looked great. The men of course were handsome...well, some of us.

Mary Ann Maday DeSimone, Mary Ellen Fitzgibbons, Bill Prybell, Jim Elliott, Ross Gentile, Marianne Driscoll Venetucci, AnneMarie Pisano Swiderski and Kathy McAnally Peterson.

We arrived at 6pm and left at 10 pm. so I guess that says we had a nice time.

Easter Sunday

2011-05-19T20:12:00.001-07:00

Spring Fever

2011-05-07T17:04:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Its Sat.May 7th

I just thought I would say hi and update you on the nothings in my life.

Every year at this time I love to walk or drive thru Park Ridge during the early
evening hours.

On every corner there are mobs of kids.....like teen age kids. Every year.

They keep moving around and if you look on their faces....you see a tension.

The tension reminded me of going to a party where there is a grab bag style gift
waiting for you. You run around touching and lifting and never being satisfied on
a gift. For the next gift might be the prize you really want and need for happiness.

The boys and girls have this look on their faces. Will this group lead me to the prize of a companion of the opposite sex that I will be happy with.

Of course, time runs out before the choice is made. And they settle. Sometime they don't get any prize as the bell has rung (actually the police walk around and break up the groups).

Its a special sight for us seniors as we don't have that problem. For those who are by themselves, there is no pressure to find the one to make them happy. Its a benefit of surviving to our ripe old age. For some its different

-----------------

Panera.

When I returned to Chicago I went to Panera as soon as I could. The chill of the morning--Its Park Ridge and chilly--ends at the door and friendly faces immediately warmed up this old cold spirit.

Hey, look whose back......you left too soon..its still cold here.....whats wrong with you and you look good but we heard you had some health problems.

Yes, I did come back too soon and brought this warm weather.....60 degrees.
and I'm ok....I survived and its not how you feel.....its how you look and with this tan I look marvelous.

Anyway, while waiting in the coffee line, a 73 old man stopped me and said Hi, glad to see you are back.

He shocked me. For 4 years I've approached this man as he sat always by himself in a small booth or table.

Not talking to anyone.

At first I would say Hi and he sort of moved his head in recognition.

After a year or two this improved to a slight hand wave....and finally last year to a Hi and wave.

So for him to actually stop and talk to me surprised me.

Then he said....come on over and talk for a few minutes.

WELL,,,I wanted to join the front window boys but said sure and joined him at his table.

He started with my name is Rowland and my wife had cancer the last few years and
I took care of her.

Every morning I would come in here to get a break from caring for her.....and guess what?

I'm getting married. To one of our best friends.....
he died about the time of my wife and now his wife and me are getting married next month.

Congratulations. Now I understand.

I also felt better that all those years did had a purpose, I just knew I should say hi to him. Maybe, just maybe, that's why my heart keeps going. That's why the defib worked.

Maybe its those Hi's to strangers that has kept me alive.

You're not strangers but Hi, how are you......

C'ya
Jim......

Powdered Donuts

2011-02-10T08:01:00.000-08:00

We recently had a Coffee Social weds morning. Some wonderful bakers made coffee cakes for the gathering.

They were apple covered cakes. I looked at them and don't really think they looked appetizing. But when I tasted them, WOW, did they taste great.

But being Jim Elliott, I like stuff that looks simple good. My favorites of course are the white Powdered donuts. They just look so good.

I asked Ruth where the powdered donuts were. She said next time but I knew she would forget.

So I went to Publix and looked for my white donuts.

I found the bread aisle and found many brands of powdered donuts and they all looked good. Then saw Hostess and knew they were the one's.

Well, took them home and I couldn't wait. Opened the package and threw one into my mouth. I kinda tasted something. A little powder and I sort of chewed/squeezed whatever was under the powder.

The one donut just didn't do anything for me. I am a knucklehead about sticking it out to the end. I was not going to give up after one donut or 4 and finally 6 donuts.

Nothing, absolutely nothing.

These donuts looked so good on the outside and had nothing inside.

This morning I finished off the entire package. Still nothing but air.

Suddenly, I had a picture in my mind of people who acted/looked great on the outside but had nothing on the inside....all nothing.

Like the donuts, I have kept going back to some of these people, not believing that anyone could look nice but be empty inside.

Recently, I've been dealing with one such character for years. For peace with my wife, I kept turning my cheek and looking for the good in him....never happened after several years.

Finally, one day when he started his bs, I just got up and joined others. Surprise, life tasted so much better.

Maybe thats what I'm going to do from now on. At age 66 I've learned don't waste my time with empty donuts or empty people.

I'm so fortunate that I've met so few powdered donuts and so many wonderful apple coffee cakes.

But then, thats the story of my life.

A Walk Along the Bridge.

2011-01-22T18:11:00.000-08:00

Took a walk the other day to watch a circus performer walk the Wheel Of Death hanging over the edge of a high rise building.

Got to the waterfront...bay front park...and I missed it. Newsfolks all around the performers dressing van.

I just walked pass toward a beautiful new bridge from Sarasota to Bird Key,,,,St. Armands...and LongBoat Key.

I was going to walk across the bridge but felt the urge to use a washroom and hesitated near the beginning of the long long bridge.

I saw a sign saying fishing and restrooms. I followed the path down alongside the bridge and soon noticed a short fishing pier. With a sign saying "Pier Closed".

I walked onto the pier and did find a great view and several fishermen who looked at me suspiciously.

A few photos and I continued on the path under the bridge. Suddenly, there was a beautiful little park with gazebo, benches, fishing bait shop and a wonderfull view.

OH, and a sight to make you cry....a restroom.

Feeeling much better I continued along the path. Past a mirrored building. And a few works of art.

I walked past hundreds of boats moored along the downtown waterfront.

Just an hour of my time and what great memory of the bayfront. and Just 3 hrs crash in bed.

The southern morning McDonalds crew

2011-01-12T05:44:00.000-08:00

Got up this morning to a chilly chilly morning....car temp said 47 degrees

Went to McD's and scoped around for possibilities. Those who might
let me talk to them and maybe join them.

Thru the window I saw a group of old cold guys in the corner.

A 50 yr old reddish/blonde haired guy with those big black rimmed glasses.

2 men sitting by themselves but showing interest in any conversations.

One conversation of special interest, was the white woman with sort of gray hair and lips that keep moving
in a discussion with an empty chair.

I got my coffee and breakfast sandwich and moved near the men in the corner.

Sat at a high table with high chairs within casual friendship distance.

The were talking about Mass. politics.

The blonde guy, sitting at a table to my left,
started talking to me. He was from Minn and today was his first day
at a job in painting signs. He wanted to buy a house with a pool short/handed??
but everyone was giving him a problem.....OK....

I could tell he was a little different. He was lonely and had been out of a job for a long time.

He talked and talked but then somehow, I was able to get involved with the corner guys.

They were around my age, some younger some older. After a few minutes I said C'ya and left.
I didn't want to wear out my first contact welcome.

Maybe I'll try again tomorrow
but this morning we have a donut social in the recreation room
at 9:30am.

Ummmm, donuts.....

Made It

2011-01-10T19:13:00.000-08:00

Jan 8, 2011
We had a mild adventure on our trip beginning.

Got to the airport on time. Too bad the plane didn't get there on time.
They said Our plane, would be late.
We were waiting for our plane when I noticed fire trucks, police cars and ambulances
lining a runway near us.

So, I went to the counter clerk and mentioned it to her. Oh no, there is no problem. Police cars are always driving past. No mam, maybe you should look outside.
Sure, when i have time.

As i told Karolyn what was happening, others heard me and suddenly we were all
watching the action.

Soon a PIA?? airplane drove by with all the emergency vehicles following it.
the plane had a star over a crescent moon on the tail.

Oh well, our plane was only 45 minutes late taking off. But somehow got to Atlanta with 40 minutes for us to run from our gate B2 to E2. These two gates are both at the end of their terminals.

We made it in time, plenty of time. Enough time to buy 2 Grilled Chicken Classic sandwichs. They rushed us on the plane and said as soon as all were on board we would take off.

30 minutes later they apologized for the delay as a couple instrument light bulbs were out. So out came the sandwiches and we gulped them down.

We arrived after 10 pm and it was too late to call for friends to pick us up so we took a cab... owned by Haitian Chery....he took us to our door and charged $30.....with a $5 tip...$35.

Now we're home and its spotless. And the toilets work. One for her and one for me.
The sad part of the trip, its cold here....66 degrees.....brrrr....
After getting up this morning to 11 degrees....I guess I can handle the cold here.

Sorry, I didn't make it to Panera this morning. But you probably suspected what I was doing.
Well, talk to you later..... have a happy sunday.

P.S.: sat next to the girls rowing team from Notre Dame who couldn't practice in South Bend but will somewhere around Sarasota.

I Can't Believe It....

2010-12-23T13:08:00.000-08:00

Have you priced ink for the computer printers.

I had a Canon Pixma 210...came with a motherboard a few years ago.

Well, the ink ran out and I went to Best Buy to get some more.

The price: 28.00 for the color
22.00 for the black ink

Wow, i thought that was insane and remember seeing a commercial for a printer for $59 but didn't know where.

So i went across the street to Walmart.

A Hewlert Packer??? HP for $48.00
I could buy a printer a new printer for the price of ink alone. Sold!

Took it home and plugged it in. It worked great.. Noisy and it didn't make multiple files.

Meaning: When I put 4 photos on the scanner...it thinks and saves them as one

So i would have to crop the scanned version 4 times to get the photos separated.

I called HP and they said their scanners don't do that.

I then checked Walmart by internet and they had a Canon Pixma 250 for $32.00. I called Canon and they said Sure the 250 is new and has all the improvements and does the Multiple Files.

OK, back into the box and back to Walmart.

I returned it.

There was the Canon. And it was $35 including taxes, and had the ink.

Ink for the old printer/scanner: $50
A brand new printer/scanner: $32

Saving $18....priceless

So be prepared to see more of my old photos.

Da Nose

2010-12-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

Someone asked me why i had a bandaid on my nose in my last photos.

I had a spot that looked like a target....a couple circles. Occasionally, it would bleed, but finding a dr for an appointment is nearly impossible for within a reasonable time.

I was recommended to dr Koseny and when I met him knew i liked him.

He told me the spot was Basil cancer and would need an appointment to take it off.

But first he looked at my many brown spots and said do you want me to take those off, and I said if the price is right...and he did.

A few weeks ago the dr took half of my nose off....
stitched it and 10 days later
took the stitches out, it didn't heal together , it opened up like another nostril.

so gave me diabetic ointment to put on to have it grow together $640 for a tube...on the house...from his stock.

its not working.
so he promised me it would work and if not would take me around the corner from his office to the plastic surgeon.

The dr was a good sport and got my camera out of my jacket and let me take pictures.

So here is a Photo of dr koseny who has a home in Palmer Ranch and his nurse yolo....yolanta...stitching me up. I won't show the bloody ones.

He just got back from Parmer ranch where he did a lot of fishing.

I thought I could shake him down...for the surgery that didn't work.

I demanded some big stuff......some of the fish...one piece of a fish.

But Oh no, he's one of those nice guy fishermen, that catch and release the fish.

So, all I got for the trip to the Dr was this bandaid,met a nice dr and some great photos.

Detective Friend Gerald Swinkle

2010-12-09T20:52:00.000-08:00

Everyday I usually check the fop death notices.
The web page went down and for weeks/months I could not check for any friends that I might have known.

Today I found the FOP new death notices web page.

Checked for any I might have missed.

Every month or two I would get a friendly call from Jerry Swinkle.
Area 5 and Area 4 guy.

When I was a cadet he took a liking to me, and up until he retired. I drove him and other detectives to turn in their stars.

While in the car driving to hdqtrs, we all laughed and laughed.
Then while going up the elevator, silence. Not one peep. We walked in and they handed in their paperwork,,,but when it came to the star. Each one needed help to drop it on the table.

Jerry, was not comfortable letting go of his star.
It was silence in the car. And they all looked like they were leaving part of their souls.

Just a heck of a nice guy. While in fla, I called him and we talked in Oct.

I haven't hear from him since and felt bad I didn't call him.
I almost called him today....but got busy at the drs office.

Well, he passed Nov 14.....another friend and super nice guy gone.
He would just tell all the stories about everyone....who they were,where they came from and who they knew. And he liked everyone he met,,,never a bad word.

Ok, there were a couple supervisors,no one had a good word for. Jerry would just skip over them.

We would talk and talk for an hour. Some old stuff, some new, but always interesting.

A funny guy with a great laugh.

I knew him for 40 yrs.....

may he RIP

Boat Ride with the Boyles

2010-11-12T19:28:00.000-08:00

Our friend Jim Boyle brought his cousin and boat to Englewood fla.

They called us and invited us to join them for a boat ride up to Venice via the intercoastal and canal around the venice airport.

Their friend Tom joined Jim, Johnny, Karolyn and me.

We took about a 2 hour trip to Venice and out to Sea where we parked for awhile for rest and refreshments.

We returned just past Venice and stopped at the Marker 4 restaurant.

Hope you enjoy the photos

Projects

2010-11-09T22:37:00.000-08:00

Well, we're only staying one more week before returning to Chicago.

Its time to catch up with all the little projects we noticed needed to be done.

We had a nice tablelamp that I suspected the llight socket was malfunctioning maybe.

I hesitated to try to fix it. But suddently got the urge. Couldn't find my electric tester.
So went to Ace and Joe advised me to buy a replacement socket. He showed me how to
squeeze in the right spot to open it up.

Then went to Harbor freight to buy a multi meter tester.

Went home and 1--2--3 it was fixed before i could get my camera out.

While i did that k painted the med cabinets....perfect...

then the toilet started dripping water into the bowl. The photo explained how i cleaned it and solved the leaking problem....no cost.

then we went to the sunset and later saw the crescent moon.

not bad for a lazy day

Oh I used my neighbors hose to clean her a/c condensor and then did another before
i broke the hose.....too much work and now another repair....sorry no photos on that

The Chills

2010-11-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

Saturday Morning

Went to the beach for my morning walk. Oh, the sun shining and blue sky made it wonderful

I felt so moved by the pretty water, I thought a swim would be great.

So I took off my winter Jacket with hood, my hooded sweatshirt, long sleeve shirt and long heavy slacks.

I took a deep breath or gasp, then screamed, Sh-- its cold and I'm freezing.
51 degrees.

Got dressed like a lover when a husband comes home....

Yes, quickly.

Bundled I returned home to see that electric meter spining like a fan and just a little warm air flushing out the vents.

Oh, Paradise!
for Florida Power and Light.

Ah, Soon I'll return outside for those free hot dogs at the club.
===================
Saturday afternoon....

In Chicago its in the 20's I'm glad my daughter turned on the heat in our house.
she set it at 62

Its a little warmer now but we didn't walk to THE CLUB.
Thats a dive 2 blocks away called The Crescent Club.

Its the place we get the free hot dogs.

Last week we met a couple from last year....john and gloria.
John eats at least 5 or 6 hot dogs. Well gloria and john didn't show up today but her sister did.

Vicky and John, two nice folks from Indiana.

We met them last week. they spend winters in Venice which is just 20 minutes away.

He was a BA for the plumbers in Ind.
He used to shoot golf in the 70's but developed anger problemson the course, and now, he is not happy with his golf/attitude.

I gave him some relaxation tips and we will play together when we return in Jan.

They lost a 28 yr old son last year to Lukemia.
So Vicky would tear when she talked about it.

Anyway, now we're back home enjoying the furnace heat.
====================================
Included is a photo of two weeks ago, with some neighbors with us.

$9.95 Chicken

2010-11-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Every month our computer club gets together at a restaurant near Largo, Seminole Fla.
Last month October we returned to Olive Garden...about 20 or us.

My cuz ordered chicken and ended up with this $9.95 piece of Chicken.

If you were the cook or waitress would you put this out to one of your customers.

They did take it back and cuz Carol re-ordered a Sampler plate.

Sunday October 24, 2010

2010-10-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

We started out going to St. Thomas More for an early traditional mass.
They have this big organ that must be tough to play.

I was amazed by how this one guy played it and thought OMG he is
so good....but

then the singer started with Ave Maria...hitting all the notes perfectly.

Then some other songs but she sang one where her voice could have broken all
the glass but was so sweet to our ears. I can't even tell you how wonderful
she was,,,,as no one can imagine.....tears to my eyes.

Then we stopped at First Watch for a great breakfast Eggs benedict with
smoked turkey and avocado....yum yum

Finally, we walked to Capt Curts and watched 3/4's of the Bears game.
After re-meeting some old fans,,,,we snacked and felt so bad watching the Bears
that we walked out.....after paying.

Then went next door to the Crescent Club for free pizza.

Felt so full, i walked back to the condo and worked out....watch out Hulk Hogan....

And a couple photos from saturday

2010-10-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

You know what Sunday is.....Church and BEARS FOOTBALL.
So we went to the Sarasota Brewing Co...

Its been there for over 20 yrs and was the only one families could go to.

But now there is plenty of competition and to tell the truth, its time for a change.

We met sister in law Nancy. Had some hot wings,,pizza and left before the game was
over, meaning the Bears were losing.

As we got home, our neighbor Marge called and invited us to watch the sunset with
neighbors and have Cheese and Wine.

We had great conversation and for the first time since we've been going to the beach
at sunset....we all saw the Green Flash just at Sunset.

I couldn't believe it.

A little Artsy Craftsy Show and Buffet

2010-10-17T06:59:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Today K went shopping with her sister...garage sales again.

I decided to drive downtown Sarasota and when I drove down Main street saw an Art and Craft fest. I got lucky with a parking spot and walked the entire circuit.

I attended one last winter, and this was similiar but expanded.

Lots and lots of People watching. Paintings, scultures--the usual and strange thick metal tube/stones.
The displayers/artists seemed so professional. And of course expensive.

Main street has more restaurants than last year. I just don't understand with
the economy. All were filled.

Went home,,napped, and then jumped into the pool.

We were hungry and tired by 7pm and decided to eat Amish.
We went to the Dutch Heritage BUFFET Restaurant on Bahia Vista...about 20 minutes from us.
It was wonderful.

While K was looking around the gift shop, I found it a good idea to walk around and
around the parking lot.....it helps with overeating.

Enjoy the photos....see you tomorrow.

A Boat Ride

2010-10-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

We went for a boat ride with Capt Robb, our good friend from Vandalia Il.

With his Cabin Boy Bob, we cruised for about 3 hours and stopped at Turtles Restaurant on Siesta Key for lunch.

He guided his boat thru a narrow harbor and canal to get to the intercoastal.

We drove/sailed south just enjoying the sights, mansions, and
the good life.

On the way back north we were greeted by a beggar. Yeah, they're in the water too.

Flipper came alongside the boat with his mouth open looking for his favorite food, shrimp.

Poor flipper, this time we didn't have any. He stayed along for a few minutes and then
left us cheap folks. Robb promises he will have shrimp on his next trip...

Our State Farm agent sent the following email:

I noticed that you were in my neck of the woods! The dolphin you said, is a local and very famous. His name is actually Beggar and he’s been in the intercoastal off Casey Key for years and years. The grandkids love to see him every time we are on the boat. Google “Beggar the Dolphin in Nokomis” and read about him.

We cruised very slowly toward Turtles restaurant. Filled our bellies and the gas tank...43 gals.

We continued on our trip but it had to end.

We said goodbye to the Minnow and Robb, went to our condo and crashed.

Got up in time to race to the beach and get a sunset.

Thats its today, I'll stay in contact.

talk later

Hope you enjoy the photos
If they don't all fit on this email
I'll send a second.

Honey--Do

2010-09-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

Honey Do...

What kind of person are you?

I noticed there are 3 types....no not political.

When there are projects to do around the house,
there are folks that finish all projects fast and correctly.

Then there are those that never start a project or if they start have
some excuse for quitting..

And there are those like me.

I am one of those that never seems to finish the project.
No project goes without its pitfalls...,.and always a little red blood.

I NEVER FINISH A PROJECT...NEVER...

A few months ago, my son had a drain put across the front of the entrance
to his garage.

While cutting the old concrete out,,,the workers revealed a problem with the concrete
under the overhead door jam.

One side of the jam is on top of the garage concrete floor pad.
The troubled side was hanging over the apron...not over the floor pad.

My son Jimmy has two boys that they keep busy with sports and day trips.

The problem door jam left a foot long opening for Mickey and Minnie to run in and out.

For some reason, Karolyn and I decided to do something.

So today we went to Menards..a oversize hardware store and bought a bag
of concreted mix for $2.99.

By the time we paid...somehow the bill jumped up to $40.

Anyway, we went to Jims house....grabbed a wheelbarrow, a bucket and putty knives.

We cleaned out the area to fix.

We mixed about a third of the bag with water and started to put
the mix under the door jam and part of the exterior wall.

We finished, cleaned up, put everything away and left our masterpiece.

I FINISHED A JOB....I FINISHED IT...with Karolyns encouragement.

I include 3 photos....rough photos but it was around 90 degrees.

Some of you perfectionists might say oh its this and that wrong......toooo bad.

Kenny's Services

2010-09-14T10:31:00.001-07:00

Kenny Olson --May 17, 1959--Aug 15, 2010

2010-08-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
We did go to Kennys memorial. Got there early as it was into the city of Chicago.

The neighborhood is built up around North Park College which is a Swedish based school.

The church is classic on the outside and inside it was a in-between big church and a small chapel.

We entered and there were several volunteers to guide us into the church and tell us what was on the schedule.

Little pamphlets were given with a short biography of Kenny and a outline of the services.

As I walked in I saw Gun in the aisle at the front of the church.....she looked so sadly beautiful.

We waited in a short line behind folks who all hugged her. I looked away as I burst out crying every time I put my eyes on her.

Finally, it was my turn.

All I could say was that my entire family were sorry for her.....then hugged her and just cried.

We went and sat down in comfy cushioned pews. Soon the entire church filled up with young to older than me.....yes, thats old.

Services began and then at some break...speakers (friends) gave their little stories of Kenny.

Sometimes being a neighbor we just don't get to see or understand how valuable our neighbor/friends are to the community and to their family and us.

Kennys friends certainly thought a lot of and loved Kenny.

Story after story of his generous heart toward his friends, family, church, and feeding the homeless. Especially his being a wonderfull host at his home for friends from all over the world.

And the main stories....his love for the fire department and his Best Friend, his mother.

It was strange, as the words were expressed everyone smiled and shook their heads YES, that is Kenny,
and yet tears of sadness flowed without control.

It was near 90 degrees and with a filled church with no A/C. Yet no one complained. His friends & family
certainly did a good job.

After the services we all went to the a/c Church Hall and had the most wonderfull Swedish meal from a wonderfull restaurant close by.

The lines to talk to Gun were long and finally we caught her with food in her mouth. Yes, we interupted her meal and just talked and hugged.

Soon we left and felt it was a wonderfull service. It was great being with Gun during such a terrible situation .

But we felt an emptyness inside. A empty space where our hearts once were, now filled with feel of loss.
But nothing what our good friend Gun must be experiencing.

May Kenny Rest In Peace....

Paisano

2010-06-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Last night we went with friends to a Restaurant far away from our home.

It was an Italian Restaurant "Paisano's" in Richmond Il. About 40 miles from our house.

First we went to a friends house in Spring Hill. And such a beautiful house--no photos.

Then drove to the restaurant.

The owner Phil came to our table and talked for awhile. Not too long but long enough
to be friendly.

He started the restaurant in one small storefront and soon moved into 3 more stores.

The insides all flow together and give it a special Italian atmosphere.

And we saw his nice black car parked right in front where the Valets can keep an eye on it.

It was a Bentley coupe...just beautiful....He only brings it when the Valets are working.

Anyway, I usually get some menu item that is simple like spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna.

But read about a breaded Pork Chop dish and just tried to experiment.

Sure enough, everyone's dishes were great. Mine was the best.

So here are a few photos of my pork chops and a mussel dish and the lasagna.P

Where Does An Old Man Sit?

2010-06-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

I love sitting outside on a nice day. Don't we all.

Well, usually I like sitting outside the gate to our rear yard.
We're on a corner and I like to wave to all the people in the
cars that drive by.

Many are just cutting thru the neighborhood and others are neighbors.

But a problem arose a few years ago....last year to be exact.

The neighbors 2 homes south of me have a back yard swimming pools and
3 young girls with many friends who like to use the pool.

The pool has a deck around it and when the girls stand up, they are easily
seen from my favorite chair.

From my chair, I can see women with bikini's walking and diving into the pool.

So, I have moved my chair from a nice position to a lower one. But still could
see the girls.

You must understand that my problem is not seeing the girls but feeling like a
perv who is sitting watching the girls.

So, I moved my chair away from the line of sight of the pools but its difficult
for me to be seen waving my arms at the cars.

I decided to forget about it and move into the back yard.

Well, today I worked on the flood moving more valuables and decided to sit in
my yard facing to the north and get some rays on my back.

Soon, I heard my daughter Jill's back door open and grand daughter Sara and friend
Bianca appeared wearing their biking bathing suits.

Ok, I will sit on another chair facing the covered swimming pool.

Facing the sun and just enjoying myself facing away from the bathing beauties.

Then I hear from Karolyn, "Why don't you girls jump in the swimming pool."

Jim help us push the solar cover off so the girls can swim.

Sure enough, we push it off and the girls start walking around and climbing into the
pool.

So what would you do?

I decided it was a good time to stay in the Airconditioned house and write this
little story.

Like the movie No Country For Old Men.....There's No Place For Old Jim.

Another Great Golf Shot

2010-06-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I played golf yesterday for the first time in a long long time.

I rented a golf cart and we played at Schaumberg Golf Course
off Roselle rd.

I was a golfer (once a week) for years before children and
my slice got me so upset---driving it into the woods to the right
that I didn't want to play. There was another reason but no need to
go there.
-------------
During the last few months I spent a lot of time in bed. I kept thinking
why do I slice.

On one good day I got on the net and watched Ben Hogan explain the swing
and why we slice the ball.

As I laid in bed I kept rethinking that swing and making it my swing...SWING
THE HIPS FIRST BEFORE THE ARMS.

I got to try it Yesterday and unbelieable. I slightly sliced on the first hole.

All the other 8 holes, my drives were straight down the middle and 40 yds further
than the other 3 guys I played with...about 240 ???or more

My favorite was on the photo where I didn't hit the ball perfect but it did travel
over water at the 175 yd mark and then between tightly placed sand traps to
within 10 feet of the cup.

Of course I,, 3 putted....but that didn't matter....I played the shot as if it were
no big deal even though the others said hit the ball up to the water and then
hit again over it...you can't hit it that far over the water.

Nope, I did it....at 65 yrs old.

I hope its not a fluke and maybe in the future I'll play without a slice on every hole.

talk later,,,,,Hawks parade was TREMENDOUS and the players were all
young 21 yrs having a great time with at least 2 million folks gathered for
the festivities.

Somebody Up There Likes Me......

2010-03-26T20:05:00.000-07:00

Sat I started with the flu....then last night K got the flu.
I felt bad but knew I could take care of her like she took care of me.

Then as she is praying to the toilet last night...about 3 am I had a gas bump
(i thought) in my belly just below the ribs in the middle.

It almost from the start hurt about a 8 out of 10. I did all i could to get rid of it
but nothing worked until 9am when I told Karolyn I had to go to the ER.

I called my neighbor Paul and he jumped at the chance to drive me.
Then his wife Diane called back and said call 911 as I'll get taken into
the ER immediately.

Seemed like a good idea. When they arrived...I had difficulty moving my body.
My belly hurt so much. I met them outside the door and they put me on the cart and
then the ambulance truck. I didn't have to fake anything,,,I hurt.

I didn't care as I hurt bad....the pain never changed...never weaker never worse if it could
get worse.

My neighbors agreed to watch and take care of Karolyn as I went by myself.

As we entered the ER the registration was already completed and I had a IV by
the paramedics. Still in serious pain.

ER checked me out starting with a EKG and then xrays....they are digital and showed
up immediately for the drs....cool again.

Then i got the shot of Pain killer something called ??dollarsdrad????

And off to a lab for a Ultra sound of my organs....kidneys, liver...gall bladder--GALL BLADDER is
right where the pain was....I wonder??

By the time I got back to the Er...they had two glasses of Kool Aid....with a base of BARIUM.
I remember having the Barium drink a long time ago with my diverticulitis...25 yrs ago and
I can still remember the difficulty of swallowing it.

I didn't look forward to 2 tall glasses.

I swallowed it and ummm, maybe its not too bad. It wasn't white and kinda green riverish.

I had hunger pains and the drinks filled me up.

An hour after drinking the Kool Air,,,the pain slowly returned.

But it was time for a Cats scan....when I arrived, the tech was a look a like for my
daughter in law Lori. I took some photos with the tele but who knows how to download it
to my computer. Not me.

As we returned to ER so did the pain and I told dr Brien that I needed another pain shot and
make it stronger PLEASE! He did and the pain got to where I forgot about it.

Then the dr walked in and told me I had rocks....rocks I said...and he laughed,
No I meant you have GALL BLADDER STONES and they're causing the pain.

So he called a surgeon to tell me how he was going to operate on me.

I can't do nothing without discussing this with my wife. I had no experience
with stones but K did know people who had them.

Do it now, she said and get it over with....and leave me alone, i'm sick.

Ok, I guess I'll wait the surgeon and tell him its ok to do his work.

A nice looking guy with a strong American swede look walked in and
asked if he could examine me.

I asked about the surgery and he said Let me check you out first.
Dr. Ken started poking and pushing down and I didn't feel anything.

I said that the Pain shot really works.

He smiled and said No I don't think so and started to draw stick organs of the
Gall Bladder looks and works.

He said the stones moved from where they blocked the duct and you're cured
unless it happens again.

He gave me his card; if it does Call me and i'll take care of it.

You're released.

I called/yelled for Nurse Margo to unhook me and called neighbor Paul to pick me
up at the dunkin donuts across the street from the hospital

I ran out of Sarasota Memorial and felt like a prisoner released who was innocent.

I got on the phone and tried to cross rt 41 and 7 lanes of traffic.

Oh no,,,,I missed biting the bullet in the hospital and almost get whacked by a black
Infinity.....nice going.
Oh nuts,,,I left everything in the hospital and crossed it again. Without a cell phone
in my ear.

Paul soon arrived and took me home to Karolyn. She was still sick and asleep so I went
and got a sandwich and some soup for her.

And got a script for emergency pain pills in case it does return for $15 and forgot to
use my Medicar card sub 2 prescription.

Karolyn was awake and requested scrambled eggs which came out almost perfect.

Now, its time for sleep for both of us. Tonight she needs it more than me.

So to sum it up: Our trip to fla
2 weeks of chills and bad colds....advil cold and sinus.
2 weeks of pine pollen....everywhere and up our noses.....drippy noses.
weeks of rehab wasted by the Flu.
My wife sleeping on the bathroom floor....
Learning I have Gall Bladder Stones......with the pain that goes with them.

Being in Fla......Worth it all
c'ya

jim
Somebody up there likes me.....

Friday's Rehab

2010-02-26T18:28:00.000-08:00

Today was the 2nd day of Rehab and also the 2nd day of unusual near freezing cold. The temps this morning was 37 degrees.

I tripled up on sweatshirts....one pullover and 2 hoodie sweatshirts pulled over one another.

Couldn't sleep too well so got out of bed at 6am and had some coffee.

Checked the emails and the tv news. It was all about the cold here and the terrible weather along the northeast coast.....

Tonight the temps are dropping to 41 and tomorrow will be rainy and 59.

Again the heat will be on most of the night but our bedroom does get warm and with 3 quilts on, we will be warm.

But it doesn't make much difference. As both of us are always fighting for the Kleenex box to get another sheet for our draining sinus'.

Yes, we both have colds. We think from AirTran on monday.
A good Chicago friend suggested a mask for the flight and I said that wouldn't be necessary.

Oh well, soon it will get warm here. Maybe we will get rid of our colds but not this weekend.

Anyway, here's a photo of me at the rehab on a treadmill.

Oh, we had a nutritionist today tell us about eating healthy. You know,explaining to us that I am killing myself by eating unhealthy. To be eating healthy, I should eat fruits and veggies and forget any foods that come in a box or as she said Manufactured foods.

After rehab, Karolyn and I went to the first watch restaurant. The breakfasts are so good and inexpensive there. So, I ordered a green meal. Eggs Benedict with Turkey sausage and green avocado....I feel healthy already.

Later, I'll take more photos. When it gets warm.

Weds

2010-02-25T14:35:00.000-08:00

Wow, did today start off good.

Went to rehab and had the blood pressure taken before starting and several times
during the hour.

Put on the monitor and was assigned to ride a bike for 15 minutes then the treadmill
for 18minutes.

then few curls with a big dumbell ME lifting a 3 lb weight. I did side lifts and it all felt good.

another blood pressure...it dropped to 100/72 which was ok

Went to Walmart,,,home,,,ate lunch and SLEPT for 3 hours.

I was awakened by a strong wind blowing the trees and warm weather away.

Its going to drop to 40 tonight and a high of 55 tomorrow...What happened to
the warm weather...it might return Sat

First Day in Paradise

2010-02-25T14:33:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day
I mean the weather was as perfect as Florida has seen for a few months.

Somewhere in the 70's. In the sun it seemed warmer. Just perfect.

Actually took off my Hoodie sweatshirts and sat in a outdoor restaurant
like it was summer..

I went to my first Rehab...a consultation and look and see.

I have Jill as my physical therapist....she explained that i wait at
the front door in the morning 9:45am with others in my class.

Then we go into the gym area. Its big with all machines.

But we'll be in the heart cardiac section with treadmills. and bikes.

After 2 weeks I'll be using resistance machines...whoopee...I can't wait and
after 13 weeks I'll be appoved for living.

So, I will have time to figure out what I can do. Same as all the other
cardiac patients.

The last time I did rehab was 19 yrs ago and i was 46 yrs old...I'm 65
today.

I think its going to be rougher this time. But its no big deal.

Did I tell you how perfect it was today.

Thurs the high is going to be in the 50's so a warm winter is not here yet.

Oh! they had a cocktail party for our arrival or at least that's what our neighbor
Paul Collins told us. He does make up a lot of stories. Actually it was
the monthly cocktail party for all those here at the condo...

Sorry no photos,,i left my camera in the condo. So next time.

Thanks for listening to me...

Pre By-pass

2010-02-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

Just talked to the surgeon and he said he prefers only the immediate family the first
couple days.

Also, I would be not in the mood to talk or visit.

So, please......stay home and enjoy life and your family.

I'll be here several days for the by pass and then the new
pacemaker/ defiberator would be put in and that would be another
few days.

So, I love emails and the kids will bring the computer and read them to me.

I appreciate all the love I feel from the Elliott family and friends.

And all of you will be in my heart and mind encourageing my body to recover.

Don't forget

Uncle Jimmy loves you all....

Mirrors

2010-02-25T14:26:00.000-08:00

Mirrors

They do so much for us and we don't realize it.

They let us know when we look good or our hair (not mine) is messed.

The list goes on and on.

Last night I walked up the stairs to take a shower.
I opened the door and sort of leaned in.

Looking to the left and turning on the light I noticed in the mirror,
sticking out from under a hoodie
a weak tired old man peeking at me surprisingly.

Once I realized he noticed me,,,I gave him my smile. He responded: first with
a small smile which I saw and then the eyes lit up.

My mirror friend gave me, the walk up was tiring....but its no big deal.

We made that walk and we'll continue. Why? thats what we do.

So, he suddenly stood up straight--lifted his shoulders and showed some smiling teeth.

I let him go and then after the shower looked for him.

Suddenly, standing in the mirror,
there was that tall handsome face, smiling with color in his face .

He looked so much healthier.

I thought about all the other mirrors with faces.

Are those faces smiling.

Recently, I suggested to a friend to look into the mirror and spend some time
viewing their face with a smile just for themselves. For no one else.

I thought it was something nice to say.

Now, I know how important that smile is....so

Keep Smilin

especially into those mirrors....

What happened to my little world?

2010-02-13T19:45:00.000-08:00

Part of my rehab is to walk. Walk. Walk.

I had been walking in my house from the living room to the kitchen thru the other
side of the house to the front door.

But after a few weeks that gets boring.

So last week I thought about when I was sick 19 yrs ago and walked at our local mall, the Golf Mill Mall.

Wow, thats a good idea...I'll do it again.

In 1991 my experience at the mall was interesting. There were all
these folks walking around that looked like my neighbors and school
classmates.

You know Polish, Italian, German, Irish, Swedes and other Scandinavian countries.
They all had their groups walking and sitting in the food court.

There were hispanics and Asians...Philippino's. Everyone smiling and giving a hello sign or wave.

Well, Monday I walked for the first time and noticed an old geezer that walked there
20 years ago. He looked older.

I walked 18 minutes and was more concerned with walking than noticing that the
mall was empty..

Then Weds when I walked 23 minutes....except there were a couple tables
occupied by some south pacific type folks....Not Philipino's or asians but somewhere maybe manchurians. Big boned faces.

Then today Sat went there around 4pm. Wow, it was crowded. But I didn't see
anyone I knew. I didn't recognize any of the groups of folks sitting in the food court.

Most were older....short stocky dark complected...with those beads that they twirled
around and around in each others faces. The language's was nothing i knew.

As I walked further I passed several stores that tall slender shaved heads Russian types were working. Each one had that look of a KGB agent.

Or even worse the Russian mafia.

There would be 5 of these guys in a toy store staring at anyone that approached.
None of the stores had any customers on Sat afternoon.

I finished my walk and sat in the food court. Everyone was wearing black leather/plastic jackets. All black clothes with white socks.

I had the lightest color clothes. And the only one that spoke English.

It was like in a movie. I stood in the middle and slowly turned a 360 looking at all the people.

All I could think of was: where did all those folks from 20 years go. When and where did these new folks arrive.

But most important...

What happened to my little world?

More Old Time Photos

2009-12-31T18:06:00.000-08:00

Slide Photos From the 1970's

2009-12-30T20:09:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas to All...

2009-12-28T18:20:00.001-08:00

Hi All my email friends and family members.

Christmas is almost here. I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas.

Thats a given.

But I really want to express to you all, to have the spirit of Christmas.

And if you celebrate with family or friends to appreciate every minute.

I know I love my family gatherings and always take photos.

This year, I am especially looking forward to our Family Photo.

You know I'll send a photo of our happy smiling faces. So I ask
you all to take a photo or two and send them out. To me too.

So, Merry Christmas to All
Thanks
c'ya
jim

Its Christmas, Stupid

2009-12-24T21:33:00.000-08:00

Bah Humbug,

I watch tired and crabby folks trying to celebrate Christmas.

They work extra hours at work,
they decorate until they collapse,
they credit card gifts until they hit the limit,

they wrap until late at night,
they cook too long and too much food,

to make Christmas special for the people they love,
and then are crabby on the special day.

WHY?

Is it special if everyone is angry and upset and hate each other.

All the work, is it for the happiness of others
or some guilt forced on us by THEM....

You know those nameless hiding THEM who know oh so much about giving...who are they?

I wish I knew, but I guess there are those that do indeed enjoy the Christmas
But at what price?

Maybe a little less of this or that and more ....what is it I'm looking for....
Love and Peace to all....and to all a good nite

What Time Is This Hockey Thing......

2009-12-19T10:34:00.001-08:00

Dad, do you want to join us for the boys hockey tomorrow.

Saturday morning is my McD's special day. What time? 8am....oh my gosh!

Ahhh, ok, we'll meet you at the rink so email instructions.

Dad, just take rt 53 to Kirchoff turn rt and turn rt again then turn left and
after you pull in turn left again....got it.

Sure..

We arrived just a few minutes late, and in time to see the boys playing a sort of real game of hockey with Uncle Mark skating with them.

Wam, bam....Mark sure had fun checking the boys, stealing the puck and slap shooting at an empty net.

It was like on tv, where the puck misses the net and hits the glass....KaBaam...

The fun lasted for 50 minutes.

The boys: Nate & Owen & Mark sure were pooped out.

And you know, I know what helps that pooped out feeling, BREAKFAST AT MCDONALDS.

So here are some photos.

Kids Take the Darnest Photos....

2009-12-17T21:24:00.000-08:00

Last night we traveled to Palatine where son Jimmy and Lori
live. Grandson Owen was in a Christmas recital.

Grandson Nate, borrowed the camera and took photos. You'll know which ones. Keepers.

Also Sara had her hair done,,,,to more blond like her mom.

Then Jessie visited and we all went to Houlihan's in Park Ridge, and Jack happened to visit and joined us. Jack always experiments with his food and ordered a fish taco and some kind of fancy dessert...with beans.

I ordered the French Onion soup with melted cheese on top... Excellent...

Finally, the two grampa's. Dallas and Phyllis are the nice in-laws. Jimmy is lucky and we're lucky to call them in-laws and friends.

Do You Think She Could Be That Nice.....

2009-12-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

,
When I was young I would write letters to Politicians
informing them of my opinions of ways to improve the world.

They would send back form letters saying thanks, we take interest
in you letter....and will think about it....

They never mentioned what I wrote about.

Anyway, I've been reading about this Sanford politician that took
a trip to South America to visit his girlfriend.

It was terrible before Tiger.

I felt so sorry for his wife I wrote her an email. Expecting maybe
a generic email from her staff.

Here is an email I got this morning.

I want to believe it was from her.
Included is the email I sent her.

===============================
Re: Sorry about your troubles

Sunday, December 13, 2009 10:49 AM
From: "Jenny Sanford"
To: "Jim elliott" jimelliot@ameritech.net

Thanks Jim and yes, I will keep smiling!
Jenny

On Sat, Dec 12, 2009 at 12:16 AM, Jim elliott wrote:

Mrs. Sanford
I'm from Chicago, married, 4 children and a great wife.

But I feel so sorry for what is happening in your life.

Please keep smiling.....this will all end....

c'ya
jim
Blog
http://jimelliottsadventures.blogspot.com/

Dinner tonight..

2009-12-11T18:55:00.000-08:00

I just thought the dinner was so pretty that I had to take a photo and let others desires make their tummies talk.

The Best Pizza for a Mom & Gramma

2009-12-11T18:48:00.001-08:00

It was Karolyn's birthday and also the coldest day of the year so far. Maybe the day before was a few degrees colder but it was cold.

She decided she wanted pizza and the kids said lets take you out to Dino's as we love the food.

We got there and we had to tell them to turn on the heat in the big room.

Then immediately ordered the pizza's. I ordered two 1-Cheese and 1 Cheese/sausage.

Suddenly a voice was heard saying don't forget the garbage/junk pizza for mom and also a little BBQ pizza.

Yes, and one of those big salads and a couple bowls of soup.

The food arrived fast and we had a great time together as a family. Isn't that really a nice thing that happens when our family gets together.

Anyway, the bill was expensive but I saw my daughter give up her debit card I thought. Nope, it was my debit card......damm kids...

More Info of: A wonderful meal at Wild Fire

2009-12-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

We went out with son Jimmies inlaws Phyllis and Dallas
and Dallas' brother and his wife, Rich & Irene at Wild Fire.

The food was the absolute best I've had and so said
all the others.

Dinner was prime rib and the best ever...so tender and tasty and wonderful

If you ever get extra money and find a Wildfire....part of the lettuce entertain restaurant groups....do it.

Beef wellington was wonderful per the 3 wives and the filets were excellent
according to the 2 other guys.

On our drive home, we also got stopped by the Park Ridge Police,
near the Forest Preserve on Touhy,

Did I get a ticket or a break????

Nope, I proved I didn't do anything wrong

He said my headlight was out.

I asked which one as I just saw both were working

I believe the right one sir he said

So he checked and they were both on
both working, bright and regular and he turned red...I'm sorry he said

I asked if he want to see my license and insurance card and he said sure.

then said thank you and sorry.. I said maybe its going on and off

and we drove away.

A night at the Wild Fire near Woodfield Mall...

2009-12-05T20:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight Sat we went to the Wild Fire Restaurant in Schaumberg near the Woodfield Mall.

We got a table on time and had a sweet waitress who added a lot of adult fun to the good time.

We had a variety of food with the 3 ladies having Beef Wellington and the 2 other men having Filets and I had a great Prime Rib.

We had a few drinks and some had more.

Thanks for the good time Dallas--Phyllis, Rich--Irene, and my lady Karolyn.

Another Monday in the Sun......

2009-11-16T13:14:00.000-08:00

Tired day today.

Didn't feel like doing anything.

So took the king size blanket and washed it.

then the pad and dried them I think....maybe more time on the pad.

then went to harbor freight....free 3" flashlight

and screwdriver 13 piece for $5

with coupon and 12" clamps for $2....limit 4 with coupon and workbench brush....$2

and a small hammer...stubby for $4.99.....

and i walked out the door....hey wait,,,,that hammer is $2.99

Sorry sir, you'll have to go to the back of the line....8 long.

Then over here sir....

I'll take care of you....

wow, I saved waiting for 1 customer ahead of me

Sorry sir, I have to ring someone up first as i'm in wrong mode...

Sorry sir....I screwed up...I need another manager.

Finally I got the difference of a little over $2....yippee....

Ate some chicken from Publix

Changed into the swim suit for a tan on the beach....oh boy, the breeze is cold, forgetaboutit.

OK, ride on my bike with the breeze and around to back home.

At the front office I requested some beach access X marked keys...I don't want to tell you... what happened. $4 a key is a hint...

Then to the pool where it was warmer but the sun was lower and ....well into the house for email and a hot shower and a nap.

Thats Life....

2009-11-12T11:24:00.000-08:00

Would you like to join us at the Cabaret Theater?

How much?

Oh, I have an extra ticket and you can have it.

Ok, I'll go.

And would you be willing to drive?

No problem.....there's plenty of room.

Who's going? Just a group of women.

Hell yes, I'll drive.

Again, that sets up what turned out to be a night of laughs and wonderful entertainment in the prettiest little theater I've ever seen.

Its a dinner theater if you want to eat there and thats what we did. A good bbq
beef plate on cloth tables. Yes, it seemed classy.

Food followed by 3 young men in Tuxedo's and a good looking girl in great dresses is easy on the eye's and such wonderful singers.

Most were songs from just before and after Rock and Roll...at least I think so.

Some Sinatra, Davis and Martin songs. Plenty of gentle adult humor.

I must admit, the room was mostly gray hairs and bald enough to spotlight the singers.

Usually, there is little movement amongst this age group but my toes hurt from bouncing with the tunes. and I think I got a crick in my neck from the swaying.

The photos don't do the theater justice but I still hope you enjoy them.

Free Beer and Food....It is Paradise!

2009-11-12T11:10:00.001-08:00

If you've been following some of my adventures, I've been lucky as
far as finding free food.

Well, it happened again today.

Paul and I were going to our sunday treat of free pizza to go with our drinks.

As we were leaving Pauls wife Diane suggested we try a place that placed an ad in the
paper for a grand opening and free food and drinks. Can't beat that.

So we went to Breezy T's and enjoyed a burger, hot dog, 2burrito and fried stuff, I think vegies.

2 beers and a large pop. And they said Thanks for celebrating with us and come back again.

There was a downside. Paul is a Packer fan and they got beat bad by Tampa Bay.

I still enjoyed it.

Here are a few photos.

Weds at Chipolte

2009-11-04T23:31:00.000-08:00

Today started out good at Panera....talked to a couple men and a woman I met last week.
She wasn't as afraid of me this morning.

Around noon I was getting hungry and had eaten everything in the fridge. Time to go
shopping.

I like the Super Target store on University which is about 7 miles away...But I like it.

I passed a Cici's on the way and the hunger pains were trying to convince me to
make a pit stop.

But i'm on a diet. Ok, if I'm still hungry after target I'll stop at Cici's on the way back.

While checking out at Target the cashier asked if I liked Burritos....why would she ask me?
Is she sales?

Yes, I love them......well, she says the store around the corner is giving them away.
No charge---FREE...

My kind of restaurant.

It took about 2 minutes to get the car and drive to the store and get in line.

There were all the dress/and tie folks waiting in line outside...about 15 folks.

I'll wait.

Well, it was a Chipolte's..???? which is a yuppy burrito joint.

I ordered it my way with guacamole and a drink....

I took out my card expecting to pay for the pop.

No sir...no charge today....its practice day for Friday...our grand opening.

One of their basic burritos is $6.95 plus extras and drinks are $1.50

So, I'm telling you all to stay on your diets...you never know.
=====================================
Included are a photo from the boardwalk at the public beach area
and a tree on our property

Photos from the front/beach

2009-11-03T07:38:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning

2009-11-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you what I did and ate this morning.

Sundays, I love to go out for my favorite meal....breakfast.

At our house Karolyn loves to cook a big breakfast for all.
Pancakes is her specialty--Eggs,scrambled and over easy.
Bacon, Link Sausage, potato's and pots of coffee.

Yes, its a diet killer. So I stopped having more than one pancake
and syrup just for that.

The last sunday I skipped the pancake and syrup...I think the syrup was
worth a weeks supply of Calories. Terrible just terrible.
-----------------
Anyway, after last night and missing spending lots of money,,,I decided a breakfast
was in my eyesight if I could find the Right Place...not just based on ease for a single
person.

I remembered going to a new joint a few years ago but sat outside and that was nice but
hot. The First Watch is a newer type clean fern restaurant without the ferns.

I sat inside as it was humid this morning but seeing the outside reminded me of the beauty.

There was the large deck with tables spread out not crammed next to each other.

And the pond....with so many small animals and birds doing their thing.

But I sat inside and found a paper....ok,,,,lets have breakfast...Oh Oh expensive
Should have known. But Crissy, suggested the special....Bisquits and gravy with eggs
and potatos--the little cube type for $6.99

They put sliced fat sausage links over the home made bisquits with a smooth light brown gravy.
Excellent for someone that doesn't enjoy typical Bisquits and gravy.

The deal maker??? The coffee thermos pot on the table.

So that was my first and I'm sure best meal of the day.

Now i have a belly full and can decide what to do. Probably return to the Crescent Club.
the bar/dive where they serve pizza at half time.

That sure sounds like a good Sunday. So , have a nice sunday.

Maybe enjoy a slightly different sunday adventure.

A Cold Day..Nates Bday...McOctoberfest

2009-10-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to the horses.

This week we went to Nate's first bday celebration...today is the 2nd.

We had the best cake....From Dairy Queen and on sale..a vanilla & Chocolate
ice cream cake.

After that we visited Jacks girl-friends McOctober-fest party outside.

In the garage was a OOOM-PA band playing typical October Fest music until their friend the guitar night club singer came and entertained.

I left Karolyn there while I went home to warm up. The temps were 37 degrees.
In the house it was 71 degrees. She called for a pickup in less than an hour.

Also, we had a windshield replaced.

A Riding We Will Chill

2009-10-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

CiCi's Surprise Pizza Buffet....

2009-09-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

Hi all

Stopped at McD's this morning and then walked the track on Caldwell by the Niles Park District.

Picked up Karolyn and went to Kohl's where I walked around. Then JoAnn Fabric in the mall across the street where the Drivers license Joint is.

Anyway, I walked around in JoAnn's and then walked outside looking around.
I noticed MARSHALLS opened up next to JoAnn's.

I walked toward Golf and looking in the windows looked at all the exercise machines.

BUT then saw a CiCi's Pizza Buffet.
I walked in and it is usually $5 and $2 for a drink. But being Tuesday, Guess what
It was Senior day. $3.99 which included the drink.

Yawhoooo.

On the buffet was a wonderful lettuce salads...one Italian and one select your own.
Then a pasta and Chicken soup.....with bread sticks that were all good.

And assorted pizza's. 16 total but 8 at a time.

Of course, a buffet has to have a dessert...they had 3

One apple slice sort of on like pizza dough.
then Chocolate brownies...or cinnamon buns.

How can you beat that......so if you're hungry and see a Ci Ci's be prepared for a
"Welcome to CiCi's when you walk in.

Busy Photos.....

2009-09-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

DOUBLE CLICK THE PHOTOS TO MAKE THEM LARGER...

We've been busy the last few weeks. So busy I haven't been able to post. Well, here goes.

We had a birthday Saturday Sept 12 and went to a Barnaby's restaurant on Caldwell with Jimmy/Lori and the boys. The boys were talking and laughing the entire evening.

We had a couple pizza's and the boys ate like adults. Both decided to color the paper plates provided with the pizza's.

Barnabys is a hold-over from the 60-70's large pseudo-pubs. They started with peanuts in baskets but cut back.

Plenty of picnic type tables. And plenty of kids. They're trying to update with more flat screen tv's. We've been taking the kids there for almost 35 yrs.

Sunday, our friend Jim Povolo who just happens to have been born on the same day as me was having a 65th birthday party at a Raffi's Italian Restaurant in Naperville.

Raffi's is usually closed on Sunday but my bro Jim took it over and invited over 100 of his friends.

It started with mixed drinks and of course this Jim had a couple Margarita's...which were excellent.

Then into the dining room where we had a lounge singer who sounded like the boys---Frank--Dean--Sammy.....and as you can tell by the photo he liked blondes.

Especially, the one I took to the party. At my age, I was happy for her. After all, she had several Chocolate Martini's. She said they were excellent.

For dinner we had our choice. I chose Salmon, which I really don't like. Let me tell you. It was done to perfection. Just wonderful.

Jim, the ultimate host, started the dancing. At first it was Eve & him. We joined them and soon many were jumping and grinding to the music.

I tried dancing but need a little more stamina. So, Jim gave me his Nikon D40 camera and asked me to be the cameraman. So I put my little old camera away and used his.

I took about 200 photos with his camera and these were taken with mine. Well, it also gave me an excuse to relax and watch all the others dancing.

It got late, and while the dancing was still going strong, I needed to go home.
It is an hour drive to Naperville, so we headed home while the kids danced till who knows what time.

We had a great time, even though we were apprehensive not knowing anyone except Jim and Eve.

We did meet RuthAnn and her husband Santa Claus. Veryyyy Interesting.

During the week, early in the mornings I usually rush to the Local McDonalds for my coffee and a scrambled eggs sandwich in a tortilla.

Really though, its for the conversation with several friends. Phil had his 60th bday party and all the folks were there. We talked for several hours and then all went to work/home/gym.

Such nice folks. Again, some are Democrats and some are not. We have peaceful discussions and have cured the woe's of the world many times over.

Most important, we have a fun/enjoyable morning. Which is a nice way to start the day.

Finally, Jim & Lori took a trip to Makinaw Island Michigan. Grandpa/ma R. watched the boys Thur, Fri and we watched them Saturday. Luckily, Grandpa/ma R. are nice friendly folks and stayed with us and we had lots of fun.

Dallas and I took the boys to a Golf driving range and let the boys hit some balls. Then just played in the yard until dark.

Dallas and Phyllis went home and we put the boys to sleep. Well, I went to sleep and Karolyn put the boys to bed.

Now you know the answer to: What the Elliott's were up to?

If You Quit He Wins!!!!!

2009-09-11T20:15:00.001-07:00

If You Quit He Wins!!!!!

What the heck does that mean?

Recently, In a Group I belong to I decided that a certain person was just overbearing.

He had no honor and didn't care if he ruined the group or embarrassed me or others. At times I thought he suffered from a disease like Dementia as his verbal/written attacks would be the kind of Play Ground Bullies.

Does everyone hate a Bully, I do?

So What Does He Win if I quit?

I thought about it and started laughing.

Quitters are losers,,,,a football saying or sports saying.

At my age, who cares. I'm not playing a game with him. I get nothing if I stick around, except for aggravation and stress.

So, why not just walk away.

I am in competition with "Time". You know the clock that ticks backward when you are born.

We all have a certain amount of time, and we all, in our ways must spend that time wisely or just throw it away.

When I was working I stuck out several instances of abuse, WHY,so they didn't win.

This all caused pain and stress.....ummmm, heart attack at 46.

At our age, we can't run away but a sharp walk isn't so bad.

And besides with our bad memories, we..we.....well, I forgot what I was going to say.

So, live life to the fullest and avoid idiots/bullies.

Don't forget--"keep smilin"

A Sunday Afternoon

2009-09-01T19:15:00.000-07:00

Karolyn arrived home at 12:15am sat morning. We slept most of the day and went to a 50th Wedding Anniversary for our Friends The Highams.

We spent the afternoon with their family and lifelong friends. And they included us in that group.

We had a nice group of folks at our table, mostly younger. Shucks at our age there are a lot of folks younger than us.

We did a little dancing, not as much as other parties, but still got on the dance floor.

After the party, we were pooped out and rested the night.

Since Karolyn just returned home after being with her mother while she passed, the kids decided to visit them Sunday afternoon. And the grandchildren came also.

We had a great time. Nate played with the dogs. While Owen ran into Marks protective arms.I guess his arms are comfy as Jessie found them inviting also.

The rest of us sat in the Sun but the Shadows moved quickly and soon we were in the shade.

Its not often that families get together and really enjoy each others company. Sitting and hearing the laughter, the screams from little dog frightened boys, well, I can't get enough of it.

Hello Owens Real Father.....

2009-08-18T19:52:00.001-07:00

Hi Grampa, this is Owen.

Oh hi Owen, how are you doing?

With that Owen just started talking about 3 yrs stuff and just would not stop. He was on the phone and just did not want to stop talking.

Say Owen, can I talk to your father now?

No, I'm still talking.

Oh, Ok.

After a few more minutes, I said Ok, now its time to let me talk to your father.

He said Ok, hang on. Oh Daddy.

Then the next voice I heard was a 3 yrs olds. And trying to sound like a Daddy, said Hello, this is Owens father.....how are you?

I burst out laughing and thought I'd go along with the phony Owens Father.

How are you --How are the boys --did you work today....did you make money?

And what are you going to do with the money?

Oh, I'll keep some and give some to Owens Mommy....

Will you give some to Owens Brother Nathan.....in that deep voice --Oh yes I will
and will you give some money to Owen. Yes, I will because he's a good boy.

Ok Ok, give me the real Owens father

ER...this is the real Owens father.....

On and on this went until Owens mother yelled out, cookies!!.....then the phone dropped and the next voice was the Real Owens father....or I think it was.

I told Jim what happened and we had a great great laugh.

Thank you Owens real father....I can't wait for coffee tomorrow, I'll have grandson story to tell.

Guess Where I Was????

2009-08-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

Yep,
it happened again.

I wasn't feeling good. I started Monday with hummm, the runs/diarrhea.

It lasted all day and all night. I kept forcing liquids down. And forced myself to eat.

But the food wasn't being digested. I think it was because I started with that
immodium stuff.

Well Thurs night it all came out.

Friday morning my kids took me to St. Francis. I could barely walk in and my blood pressure was 84 ovr 54, which is low for me.

I'm usually around normal 120 over 70.

Dr. Gumpta introduced himself with his tv camera....You know where he stuck it.

He was in a hurry and couldn't wait for the sedative....such a caring dr.

I was hyped up and really could have used one.

Anyway, I stopped some of my meds for a day and I felt good this morning. Soon, the good dr Gaiha came in with a smile and said Get out, you're OK.

I was dressed and Jill arrived soon and I ran out....yep another runs.

Y

A Busy Saturday...

2009-08-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

At 1pm Saturday, I walked into Portillo's and approached by two women.

Hi we know you, you're Jim Elliott and we're Mary Ann and Margaret from the class of 1959.

Hey ladies, I'm so glad to meet you.

From that introduction, three classmates from St. Ferdinand grammer school became instant friends.

It started when I was trying to find out if we were going to have a 50 year reunion from St. Ferds.

I missed it but met the two ladies on Classmates dot com.

Mary Ann mentioned she was going to be in town (from North Carolina) and was going to meet with Bill Prybell and Margaret at Portillo's.

Bill didn't show up,,,I think he has a boat and Sat was perfect boat weather.

Anyway, 2 hours of reminising and just general fun talk flew by and we said good-bye and maybe see you again. We all said that 50 yrs ago and never see most everyone from that time.

=========================
After leaving Portillo's, I arrived back home at 4pm.

I could hear screaming children and loud young men laughing. While music filled the air.

No doubts about it, it was the block party starting to get going.

I walked to the front of the house and there were all the folks in the neighbor hoood sitting in front of their homes.

If front of our house were the in-laws and numerous friends and relatives.

It seemed like they all had either a beer or a Bratwurst hanging from their mouths.

As far as the food: Brats, Pulled pork--smoked and crocked, salads, beans, corn on the cob...flavored and natural,,,cakes, super chocolate cakes, apple slices, and many little treats.

It was a little hot, like the high 90's and high humidity. Too hot to sit outdoors and I retreated indoors. Luckily, some folks joined us. It was nice they came into the house, but better than that they brought plates of cake and apple splices.

The weather cooled off, and the best was about to begin.

Suddenly there were two loud speakers and a music mixer box. In between was a young fellow by the name of James.

James played a quitar and sang wonderfully. A pleasant surprise.

After that it got late and this Jim hit the bed.

Another great day.

A Garden Party..

2009-07-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

It was a busy weekend. One of the highlights was a pool/patio party Saturday afternoon at one of the Panera Front Window Boys Condo pool and deck.

Jim Keating certainly tried his best to have his first pool party at his place.

Burgers, Italian (not brat) sausage, spinach brats,,,plenty of alcohol.

The Presentations were by different folks, seemed many took turns.

We sat on the deck and didn't use the pool....why??? because of that time and trusted party activity....CONVERSATION.

We arrived about 3:30pm and stayed until almost 8pm. And all had a good time but I think Sean felt the best after it was over.

He looked like he could do another party.

Keep Our Country Great and Our Constitution...

2009-07-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Regarding the letter.

I don't mean to offend anyone.

A letter writer says the world looks at how great America is. and yet can't wait to see it change.

When you're on top of the world, there is only one way to change.

Downhill.....America was made great by the individual drive of millions of Americans and immigrants.

A drive to improve their individual lives and family.

Now, we have had a financial correction that the government got involved in.

So now we have folks (czars) telling us how to do business and what we must do with any profits....give it to Corporations and people they think deserve the benefits of our labor.

If I make $100 a day for 8 hrs work and the government takes $30 to give to someone they think deserve it.....thats CHANGE I don't need.

It took part of my life to earn that $30. I only have so much time in my life and yet I must spend much of my time/my life giving to the government.

Like I said before, I don't want to offend anyone,,,but I think its time to speak up and correct the idea of Change.

If an individual wants to dedicate their life and time and money and wealth to give away, I think thats great.

But don't force me/Robb me of my money to give to others.

This is a great life only because I'm in the Greatest Country in the World with the Greatest Constitution. Lets not change it--the country or Constitution.

sorry for the soap box.

Family Visits are Fattening

2009-07-15T18:44:00.000-07:00

Jim, would you like to do breakfast with the sisters at Sugar Bowl in Desplaines.

Of course, but wait, do I have a T-ball game or hockey practice to attend. Nope, so yes I can eat breakfast....ummmm, breakfast.

I got into the car and met the ladies: Elder sister Diane, and animal lover Mary, and Maui Liz.

The coffee was great.

The conversation was great.

The sisterhood/brotherhood?? Great.

But the best was the Ham that was included in the breakfast.

Under the ham were 3 eggs, hash browns and to the side wonderfull grain bread toasted.

The photos just don't do justice to the meal.

We talked for the longest time and then went our own ways for now.

Today, Weds was a surprise lunch at Panera and then the best pizza for dinner from my most almost favorite Pizza joint DINO'S on Higgins.

My belly hurts so much, i want to cry or take an anti-acid pill.

Its wonderfull when family come in, but its dangerous to the health.

Oh sister Liz and Unc Bill needed some special medical attention...A nap on the couch.

Took A Walk Today....

2009-07-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

I've been re-gaining my old big body recently. I've been riding my bike and walking short distance. But I know its not enough to lose weight.

So today decided that if I felt good/loose, that I would try to walk further than a 1-1/2 miler.

I started off good until I got to Panera. Who would have thought in the afternoon that I would see Lawyer Jim and Pilot Sean.

I just went to say hello and leave but you know how it goes. I had to defend and stand up for my Sarah Palin.

I stayed long enough to get stiff and continued on.

I tried and was successful running across the busy street when I heard some old coppers yelling...better huscle a little faster Elliott.

It was George Ruckrich. A big time boss and just a nice guy sitting at Starbucks in the sun.

I waved and continued on toward my niece Jennifer's house.

It was a nice part of the walk and all the gardens were in full bloom. One prettier than the next.

Its about a mile and I almost made it. I suddenly stopped when I saw a concrete bench next to the sidewalk in the shade.

As soon as I sat down, the front door to the house opened and some older man coughed and cleared his throat. Then banged on the wall mail box.

I guess he was trying to give me a message. But I didn't hear it.

I made it to Jennys house and told her I was sitting just a couple house's away on the bench.

"Didn't the Old Guy chase you off the bench, he's always yelling at anyone who sits there"

She invited me in to see how the remodeling is going and it was going nice.

Mr. Tile Guy was finishing the splash area above the counter....Wow, did it look nice.

I rested and drank some water and continued on my walk. Down Albion for about a mile until I saw John parking his car.

Said hello and he got his wife out of the house.

We sat in the back yard and talked about our health.

Julie and I had our heart attacks just a few days apart in 1990.

We then attended re-hab together. She made it enjoyable. And we have been friends since.

After getting stiff again, I mosied on home.

Just in time for the best baked Amish Chicken by Karolyn. The neighbors joined us and ended the day on another high note.

Maybe a 4 mile walk and it took 2 1/2 hours.

Bro Bills BoPeep Bday Party....

2009-07-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

The BoPeeps threw a bday party for bro Bill's 50th in Lannon Wis.

A great time.....except for Grampa E...thats me....I'm too embarrassed to tell what stupid things I did.

So here are a few photos--reminder...Double Click the photos to make them larger.

A Day At the Old Ball Game....

2009-07-04T14:18:00.001-07:00

Friday night we went to the Schaumburg Flyer minor league baseball game.

We actually went for the fireworks but:
the seats were great.....$13,,,
the food was great,......$50 with beer,,,
the fireworks the best...$1 extra,,,
the fun..................$00.00...
the memories.............priceless.....well, maybe not priceless...

About 10 of us sat together and on the top ramp. One of the group has had surgery to her knee and it must be kept in a straight out position.

As you can see we laughed and laughed.

Its funny how a few glasses of beer can make the night a delight.

The fireworks were so wonderfull, I forgot to use the camera...

It did include Independence Day fireworks. So, some wore their patriotic shirts and were proud to show them off. The T-shirts

Karolyn loved the entertainers dancing and decided to dance with them.

Clean House.....

2009-07-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

Do you ever watch the show....CLEAN HOUSE?

Well we watched it tonight.

It was called the America's 3rd Messiest house. And it was bad.

The owner, a slightly heavy-set blonde woman...who happened to be a Police Detective she said.
But you could listen to her talk for 30 seconds and know she was all bull-shit.

Anyway, she just said her clutter around the house was due to 30yrs of living in the same house.

She said she got overwhelmed by it after the mess got out of hand.

The crew cleaned out the house and sold the stuff from a 70000 sq foot warehouse.

Then they put the mom and daughter into a hotel while the crew did the work.

At the end of the show, the hosts take the clients around the house and of course its just beautiful.

The woman still got upset with them for some missing purses. And actually blamed the tv crew for stealing the stuff.

The woman finally walked off the show. Like, they offended her.

They continued on the tour with the daughter who loved the change and appreciated all the work done.

Then they announced one of the companies that helped them--newretrodining.com.

Well I went to that page and found a couch I like. And they offered a discount.

$14,000 reduced to under $11,000. Such a deal.

A Phone Call From Where....

2009-06-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

I must tell you about my dream during my nap today.

no joke....

I got a phone call from Marty Touhy....a former partner who passed away about 2 years ago.

In his voice and tone and humor, as if it was nothing changed.

He asked me.

Hey, how many miles you put on the trip....I assumed he meant the trip to fla this winter.

I said about 25,000 and he made his giggle laugh Wow, thats a lot!

How'd you do that?

I then realized Hey Marty is on the phone talking to Me.

Marty...Where the Hell are you....I mean Up or down.

He said its all in your mind..whether you want it to be up or down and

then quickly said good-bye.

I yelled---Hey--call me back will ya....and he said Yep Yep...click.

I immediately woke up...

It was a good dream....I'm still smilin.

Let me say it now----I love the new meds that I'm on....Great dreams and none of them about women....or nightmares.

I can't wait for Marty's next call...I have many questions to ask him

More bday photos...Cake, Guests, Pirates

2009-06-18T02:36:00.000-07:00

DOUBLE CLICK ON THE PHOTOS TO ENLARGE THEM...

A Pirates Life for Me.....arrrgh....

2009-06-17T10:59:00.001-07:00

DOUBLE CLICK THE PHOTOS TO ENLARGE THEM.

If you take a lot of love and hard work and a mind to make something special for your grandson--Owen's 4 birthday, you will end up with a special cake.

And it taste' great too.....

Karolyn was nervous for weeks. How to make this cake better than the pirate cake for Nate.

First it had to be Awesome.

2nd it had to feed up to 50 people.

Shopping took days. Karolyn hit all the party stores and dollar stores looking for pirate stuff.

Pirate Gummies were a good find as well as Shark Gummies.

Then gold colored chewing gum. Yum, Yum.

Finally, she went to the local Sarah Lee bakery outlet store, a half block from our home. Sorry but with all the graduations most of our tray cakes are gone.

Why don't you call some of the others. The Palatine store manager said he had three and would save them for us.

An hour drive there and back and we had the 3 layers of cake.

She made a cardboard template of the shape and that's how it got its design.

Layer upon layer and she used the trimmings to make the fore and aft decks...what ever those are.

Next the frosting. She makes it herself and used her fudge recipe, applying it thick and heavy.

We waited to decorate it until we got to the birthday party house in YEP..Palatine.

The boys eye's got big when they saw it being carried it. Shortness of breath from carrying it too. Heavy...

Karolyn put it on a new poster board...you know like a 1/4 inch thick.

The cakes were placed on it. I did mention she made a second cake. She decorated that one like a pirates island.

She smooied a blue/green frosting around the boat and island. The gummy fish were stuck into these. Sharks, Octopus' Squid and Dolphins.

The sails were made of Pirate wrapping paper twisted and clued together..

While doing this, the boys ran and put on their new pirate costumes.

They were now into the spirit.

The photos just don't do the cakes justice.

As all the guests arrived and they saw the cake, their eyes all popped out and each one asked if she would agree to make/sell one to them.

After 3 weeks of shattered nerves, the answer was just an eye-ball stare.

A few hours later everyone gathered around the table and the kids sat there for 20 minutes staring at the cake and waiting for the candles to be lit.

It was a great cake and every child asked their parents if they could have AN AWESOME PIRATE cake for their birthdays.

Don't let the door hit you....and Pizza

2009-06-15T20:12:00.001-07:00

My nephew Cristopher married a nice Irish girl in Ireland. Many in the family traveled to the emerald Isle to celebrate with him.

My sister Liz and husband Pat live on Maui. He owns an organic farm and she is a school teacher.

On their return trip from Ireland, they had a lay-over in Chicago and were able to visit family.

They were supposed to land about 2pm but didn't arrive until near 6pm. We were hungry and decided to get some pizza's at Dino's on Higgins.

While driving back home with the pizza we got the call, we're at the hotel and want some pizza.
So I made a timely detour and picked them up.

They were going to wait until all ate the pizza together but I insisted they eat it while it was hot. They agreed that Chicago has the best pizza.

After their visit, I drove them to visit our other sister Mary. When we arrived we learned that Mary, who works for the post office, just got a phone call that they were closing her post office. This meant she would have to drive a great distance to a new location or retire.

She just didn't feel up to a visit and asked us to leave.

So, I took them to their hotel for a much needed rest. Poor Liz's eye's were bloodshot and Pat was tired also. We said good-bye and hoped to see each other soon. Probably not Pat who has to tend to his farm.

More photos...Tball and the Dogs.

2009-06-09T19:47:00.001-07:00

DON'T FORGET TO DOUBLE CLICK THE PHOTO TO ENLARGE IT....

Nate has improved every game. Last Saturday he stopped 13 ground balls.
So, he got the game ball....first time for an Elliott

The little dog Max always beat up on all the big dogs, but Duey is definitely his match and more.

Just Walking....

2009-06-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

DON'T FORGET TO DOUBLE CLICK THE PHOTOS TO ENLARGE THEM.

Getting Slower or its Getting More Difficult.

2009-06-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

DON'T FORGET TO DOUBLE CLICK THE PHOTOS TO ENLARGE THEM

This past weekend I got a nice warm feeling...like I wanted to try some work around the house.

So, I bought some lumber 2 x 3 and had the boys volunteer to fix a broken picnic table.

They started out with lots of enthusiasum but found the job needed special cuts on the legs.

Once they finished it looked good....just leaning a little to one side.

I started off by replacing a screen on the storm door. Our new dog kept jumping up on the door and put his paws thru an missing jelosy window pane....punching out the screening.

After I fixed the screen I took a couple upper door panes and put them down low....we hope to replace the door soon.

Then a old time basement wooden window pane was broken and I fixed that.

Actually, it took 3 hrs. Why? because the window cutting man at ACE decided to cut according to my request....it was off by an inch.

I tried measuring the old way from the 1" line to get a better more accurate measurement.

Of course I forgot to subtract the extra inch.

Can't wait until next weekend.

Drillin and Chillin

2009-06-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

Got up early and drove to McDonalds at 7:30am. Met the usual guys: Pat, Phil, Lee and Kitty. Soon, we were surprised by Sparks Mike and Chuckie.

We were all talking and noticed that Chuckie wasn't talking.

Hey Chuckie whats up....

I'm mad, I had my drivers window open and another car hit a pothole filled with water. Soaked me and my car,,,do you believe that sh....

Sparks was smiling but he always does. Hey Sparks why are you here so early.

My golf game got rained out.

We all laughed and continued laughing until it was time to leave and go to ??? Panera.

Met Karolyn at Panera and after sitting with her and the Murphys, I went for coffee and saw some friends by the front window.

I sat down and somehow started talking about religion. Usually, the men discuss religion and we have a good time and forget about it.

But that didn't happen with this group. I had to strategically excuse myself with I have a dentist appointment. Which I did.
I got there at 10am and Dr. Nikki took me into the room and with the help of Magdalena?? started to drill my teeth off. Ok, not my teeth but the old bonding filling material on my front teeth.

They worked on me for at least 20-30 minutes and when they were finished I had fancy looking pearlies on my upper front teeth.

I said thanks and then walked back to Panera (which is close to the dentist office) and met the boys sitting out from. Pedals Pat and baby Jeff, the lovely MaryAnn, Lawyer Jim and Job dodger Roger.

We laughed for an hour and I got hungry. I went into Panera and just couldn't see spending $8 for a quick lunch.

Into the car and over to McDs for a sandwich and coffee.

A quick drive past Panera and I saw Jim and Roger still there.

I joined them and suddenly this attractive women sits at the table next to us and says Hi. You don't recognize me do you.

It was Dr. Nikki. She was pleasant and friendly and we all talked.

Finally, it was time to go and I got home in time for my 3 O'clock nap.

My Jaws hurt and I had good reasons. The dentist and flapping them.

I know another good day is planned as another visit with Dr. Nikki is planned.

A Cold & Warm Weekend!!!!

2009-05-28T18:14:00.001-07:00

"Yes we will be there early." "Come on Jim, I want to leave by 9am."

That's how our trip to Lake Geneva started this year.

"I'll load the car. Oh, would you take this out. Thank You."

Oh, we forgot this and that and I have to pee.

Yes, a typical start for the Elliotts annual trip up to the in-laws Home in Williams Bay, Wis.
Frank & Sheila.

Williams Bay is just that. A bay jaunting out from Lake Geneva.
A bay layered with homes from the waterfront to over the hills.

Homes, used as get aways from the hustle and bustle of Big City Life. Many politicians, mob guys, business men, and regular hard working blue collar types.

Some of the homes can match any mansion. Sitting next to their home, were cottage's like we are used to.

Williams Bay.....certainly a nice place to stay.

We arrived at their home and something unusual about it. Family friendly and room for the grandkids to run around. Not bad, huh.

Of course the weather was comfy but a little cool. The greetings were much warmer.

Hi guys! How about a bite. Sit on down on the porch.

Later we would greet friends of Franks. From their school days. We sat around a none burning fire pit and laughed about how the color of hair changes over time.

While talking, Mark took the kids and parents to the marina and jumped into the boat for a short ride around. It was afternoon and the weather was starting to change.

Of course the kids loved it when the boat splashed sprinkles of water into the air and onto their hair. Laughs from the kids and warnings from the parents---better wipe yourselves off or you'll get colds.

I walked down hill to the marina and waited for them to return. They did and in groups left the boat and walked back to shore except for the tour guide, Mark. Someone had to clean and prepare the boat for storing.

We walked up the hill and when we got back to the home, found cakes cut and waiting to be tasted. Tasted.....super chocolate cake....give me a piece and angel food with a pineapple/custard frosting.

Yep, that really hit the day. Now it was getting dark and Mark returned to set up the fire pit. Set it up with big logs and a great fire.

The kids got as close as could be and found it exciting to throw leaves on top of the flames.

Until, Frank showed them how to toast marshmellows and cook those frozen hotdogs....tasted like brats to me.

It was another wonderfull time, our feet warm from the fire and our bodies warm from the blankets.

All things must come to an end and we said good-bye. Put Lori and Karolyn into the car and drove off....with the heater in fast fan super heat mode.

We left them all to camp outside. Sara and Maizie and the Elliott boys, Nate & Owen with their dad Jim.

When we got home, we turned on the furnace and enjoyed another last laugh at the campers expense.

I'm sure it was fun sleeping in the tent on the ground with the temps in the 40's.

But as you all know, there is no place like a nice warm bed in your own home.

Finally, nice weather

2009-05-19T19:44:00.000-07:00

After hitting the 80's in Temps not golf, in Fla, it was difficult to wear a sweatshirt and hoodie the last few weeks since we've been home.

Today, it was in the 80's. Off with the sweatshirt and on with the shorts. Oh did it feel good.

Sat in the back yard with the neighbors, my daughter and grand daughter and Thomas.

Laid on a chaise lounge and looked straight up watching the planes fly to O'hara. Suddenly, a weird sounding plane flew over.

It had a canard and two prop motors...with the props at the rear of the engine. They were pushers. Everyone ran to where they could see the strange sounding plane. Pushers do sound different and were invented by the Wrights but this plane had its start with that famous experimental plane designer....Burt Rutan.

Later, I took the walk and as I got to Panera, a young couple jumped up and gave me hugs. Welcome back from Fla. WOW, did that make me feel good.

I walked around Park Ridge with a new spirit in my step and after 2 miles returned home to watch the finale of DANCING WITH THE STARS.

Yes, I love dancing. I'll dance anything except that one that goes 3 or 4 steps forward, and the same backwards. Tango ??? I hate it, I can't keep up the beat.

So, the champ for season 8 of Dancing With The Stars....is/was....Shawn...the kid gymnast.

Do you believe that, the kid won.

Can't wait until tomorrow.

Tired and Stunk Out

2009-05-14T17:21:00.001-07:00

I tired myself out yesterday.

Yes, I started coffee after driving the grand daughter to school at 7:15...I went to mcd's on Milwaukee ave.

Talked until 9 and then went to Panera and talked to until after 11. My jaws were so tired.

I took my nap and then after supper went to the indoor track and walked 15 laps.

11 to a mile.

The first 8 were tough but I loosened up when those other walkers showed up with their leotards....are they still called leotards....anyway something tight fitting.

Spandex..???

Things were certainly looking up until, some big person with a sports shirt/bra walked past me.

She had no need for a bra, trust me.
heck everyone passed me up but when this one did, perfume stunk up the track.

I was very discouraged but said I'll stick it out.

Then a man and woman around my age passed me, and she was wearing a Sorry???? OMG.

This woman should have been wearing the perfume or deodorant... I felt sorry for myself after they passed.

It did encourage me to walk faster so they wouldn't pass me again.

=========

This morning I called some friends to meet at another McDonald's on Nw hwy.

The senior drink was 90 cents and a sausage burrito was $1.95.

This compared to the other McD price of 56 cents for senior coffee and $1.30 for a sausage burrito.

It kinda of ruined my breakfast except I bought the 2 for $3.30 sandwich special. I shared with one of the guys and we had a great time...talking and laughing again from 9 to 11:30.

Yes, another good day.

A weigh in at the Dr's office.......are you ready.....it was 207 lbs in Dec and today it was 193lbs.

I'm on my way to being healthier. Talk later....feel free to respond with your tales of life....

love ya all...no not really...not all of you

A Sentimental McDonalds Visit

2009-05-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

"Strange you sent this today", is the message I sent to a friend.

You sent a tearful story about a man who visits his wife everyday. She was suffering from Alzeimers. He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'

Today I realized that the story is true and repeated all the time.

---------------------------------

At coffee this morning with the old guys at mcd's I listened to an 85yr old WW2 vet tell me how expensive the medicine was.

Not for him but his wife until he got the dr to give generics.

I asked him how his wife was doing.

She had alzeimers, parkinsons, diabetes and the worse he said was blindness.

SHE'S DEAD... I gasped, oh Jim I was in fla. When did she die? I'm so sorry.

He said Feb....and then he stopped talking and tears flowed. I was quiet and gave him a hand on the shoulder with no words.

He regained himself and reminded me that he would spend so much time with her. Dressing, washing and taking care of her in the bathroom.

That morning he carried her to the bathroom and sat her down and left.

He heard a cup fall and ran back into the room.

She said she was having problems breathing.

He picked her up and carried her to her bed but realized that she died while in his arms.

He continued to tear and the facial muscles twisted while he said I miss her.

I wanted to say: its best that she died, but knew for him it wasn't that way.

I usually leave McD's for Panera at 9am on Sat but today found a reason to stay until 9:45.

Wouldn't you!

Finally, another post with more to come......

2009-05-05T10:13:00.000-07:00

Back from Fla into the warm 60-70's cloudy dismal day here in Chicago

Everyone has a smile on their faces as the weather is finally better....better than ???

Anyway, as you know i was kinda sickly when I returned to fla in Jan.

After a few months of McDonalds for breakfast, I had another photo on the beach.

Its probably the best I'll look for the next 20 yrs.

You can laugh if you want to...I'll understand.

I've already gained a few pounds and my pants are tight again.

I got the bike out for a ride yesterday and today will be a walking day, so the start of the summer exercise program is ahead of normal.

The last day, Friday, in Fla we went to Siesta Key beach for sunset. We saw a powered parachute flying over the sun.

The photos came out ok for the camera.

Many more photos and the stories that go with them are already beginning to fade with the cloudy dark days here in Chicago.

Photos from the move and son Jacks visit.....

2009-04-24T08:33:00.001-07:00

Someone asked for the race video

2009-04-17T19:11:00.000-07:00