Pot LuchFrank's 95th Birthday

Saturday, August 15, 2026

I made a frittata with ham, spinach, tomato, Swiss cheese, heavy cream and a dozen eggs for our pot luck breakfast.  While it was in the oven I delivered Birthday cards to Marilyn Minor, Nancy Mitchell and Julie our new resident.  I turned on the warming plate and put out items for the pot luck.  

We had one of the largest groups attending with enough food and Dwight Morgan's pancakes.  My frittata was cleaned up.

I was pretty tired, especially lifting that full cast iron pan.  I took a nap and felt refreshed.

I sat on the piazza with my knitting just before 3:00 p.m., expecting more people to assemble for Frank D'Amato's surprise party.  Frank's son was busy grilling and Frank was sprucing up tables for "some of his family" he was expecting.  All the guests had assembled in the Cannoli Room and filed out together, much to Frank's surprise.  Guests from SRS included a number of church members, plus Chuck and Jane Boecher.

There were appetizers and beverages, followed by a huge buffet with salads, fruit, Italian sausage and hamburgers.  Frank circulated among the guests.  Here he is with Mike Bruski and Jane Boecher.

I took my dessert to my balcony and had it with some hot tea, while I still watched the party from up above.

The forecast had been for thunderstorms, but the day could not have been more ideal.

Friends of Friends Gone

Friday, August 14, 2026

Brad texted me an obit asking if I knew this person: Chuck Zahnow!, what a shock.

https://www.muellerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/charles-zahnow

Peter and I enjoyed sitting at the table with Chuck and his wife Bonnie at the MARTA luncheons for many years.  Every September he would present me with one or two of his fabulous dahlias.  I was so happy that I could post this photo on his Memorial page.

Then, Terry sent a message that Marilyn Schrader died.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/marilyn-obituary?id=62175075

Marilyn was such a vital part of WAUC, leading us on her keyboard with seasonal songs and bringing her scrumptious cheesecake to WAUC parties.  She was a serious sheepshead player and would not tolerate bad plays.

These were two friends and friends of each other; Marilyn and the Zahnows were close friends.  Both funerals were the same day, hours apart.

Peter and I drove to attend Chuck's funeral at St. Paul's church in Grafton.  Because we were very early, we filled the time picking up a few things at P & S.

The service was lovely, with a men's choir singing two hymns, one in German.

I greeted Rev. Scultz afterwards, commenting on his homily that reflected his connection with Chuck.  Peter had to remind me to mention that Brad is a member of the church.  That sparked a recognition.

We started thinking about lunch and I suggested Ma Fisher's, where I had never been.  Great idea. We had more food than we could eat; the lunches included soup and salad/fruit.

We drove to the ATM for cash and to Whole Foods to get a refund on my Amazon sweaters.

That was a pretty full day.

German American Day and More

Saturday, August 8, 2026

Laura said she had home made bread and apple pie that she would put together with a dinner if Peter and I would like to come.  I put that on hold until I checked with Peter on how long we wanted to stay at Schurz Park.  He was more than willing to have dinner at Jay and Laura's when he picked me up.

The day was absolutely perfect for this event, outsmarting the weather forecaster's rain prediction.

My handicap hanger helped getting us parking closer to the entrance.  We found a grassy area to park our chairs among many people having a good time.  Peter got our steins filled and he talked me into having something to eat; I didn't want to spoil my appetite for later at J & L's.  I'm glad he did, because the hot dog and brats were in a wonderful bun, not the regular soft buns or the massive buns, but they had nice substance.

A couple that we met at Kegel's stopped by looking for the Austrian Club meeting; Peter thought the meeting would be here, I have no idea how that could happen.  I got comments about the shawl that I was knitting.  We also shared a plum coffee cake and a cup of coffee.

We left shortly before 4:00 p.m. and took Capitol Drive to J & L's, getting there just at 5:00 p.m.

We sat under the pergola for a short while until Laura determined the flies were bothersome.  Their patio shelter is priceless on these lovely days, devoid of bugs.  We had appetizers before Laura brought out her home made bread, a chicken/avocado/raspberry/ garden Swiss chard salad with balsamic dressing.  She topped off our dinner with home made apple pie ala mode.  What a wonderful dinner.  And I got to take some chicken home.

We had such a good time laughing, mostly at my expense (Poor Dolly!  Nobody loves her).

Stormy Weather

 Monday, July  31, 2026

During our Needlework Group meeting the skies turned black and rain came down in torrents.  The wind came in gusts and knocked over a lot of things.  Cecile Langford said that a heavy pot on her balcony was tipped over; my plants really got whipped around.  I hope they will recover.

Saturday, August 1

Through the night there was lightning that caused power outages.  My microwave and stove lost power and there were random outages throughout the two buildings.

There is no cable TV due to a part that needs replacement.  I really didn't miss it.  I can still use Roku.

Friday, August 7 ?

Cable has been restored.

Preview of Irishfest

Thursday, August 6, 2026

Jerry McClusky, as he did last year, engaged Irish musicians to play for us starting at 5:00 p.m.  Last year they played in the piazza, but rain threatened, so they played in the trattoria.

There were snacks and Guinness beer

People remarked that they liked the group playing indoors where they could hear it better.  

I stayed as long as I could tolerate the repetitious music.

I was able to maneuver the remote to watch The Exotic Marigold Hotel in the Club Room.  I saw it more than once before, and still loved it. 

Wrong Yarn

August 1, 2026

I ordered a pattern on-line that looked interesting for women instead of the plain cap I've been making for men.  It featured a chevron design.  I was eager to get it finished, but as I worked, it looked extremely large.

It was VERY large and bulky when it was finished.

I inquired with AI about knitting with Caron Wintuk and it advised me that that particular yarn is more suitable for outdoor or sturdy projects, not for items close the the skin which would by scratchy.

Mokelke Reunion

Saturday, July 25, 2026

Eric texted me that he was visiting his mom and planned to come visit me with his mom either Friday or Saturday for lunch. Did he mean come to my apartment for lunch, or go out for lunch?

When I confirmed that Saturday would be fine, the next text said they would take me for coffee or a snack, and would like a place close by.  That shortened the visit by quite a bit.  I suggested Panera's two blocks away, which Eric said would be perfect.

On Saturday, Eric texted that he was on his way with Masako, Myleen, Rachel and Naomi and would be at my place at around 11:00 a.m. (I did not notice Naomi in the text).

What a delight to see Masako, Eric, Rachel and Myleen come out of the SUV.  I got a pleasant surprise when I saw Naomi when we got into Panera's because she was crouched in the rear of the SUV and I never saw her get out.  

We had coffees, I had a bagel, and we caught up on family news in the short time until they were on their was to Chicago to buy Japanese groceries and eat at a Japanese restaurant.  

When they dropped me off at SRS they took a look at the flowers my balcony and gave my a gift of German pretzels, Rachel's home made cookies and a tiny polished wooden bowl.

I was so thrilled that they thought of me to pay a visit on the way to their destination.

Our Country is 250 years old

 July 4, 2026

I screwed up again getting to Jay and Laura's neighbor's driveway; we were driving into the parade that was just about to start.  But being able to park in the neighbor's driveway was wonderful.

Laura had appetizers arranged in the driveway for us while we watched the parade go by their house.

Russ and May Klisch joined us for a dinner of brats, hamburgers and sides with schaum tortes for dessert.

Brad and Janice's Anniversary Party

Saturday, June 13, 2026

All week the forecast looked threatening, but the forecasters were wrong, in our favor, to make this day not only sunny and warm, but a very joyous occasion, as we celebrated the anniversary of Brad and Janice's backyard pre-nuptial party of 35 years ago.

It was nice to see familiar faces, and some that I had difficulty remembering.

There was an assortment of foods to munch, including Janice's wonderful guacamole and a lot of beverages to satisfy over thirty guests.

All of the bridal party were present except one usher, arranged the same as ten years ago.

Sendik's did did the catering with delicious pulled pork, roasted vegetables, salad, fruit; Janice added beans and her pickles.

Sima's provided the same cake as for their wedding and 25th anniversary.

I feel so fortunate that I was able to be part of this memorable occasion.

Ball Game

Monday, June 8, 20226

It was a nice mild night to watch Colin play softball.  Brad and Janice picked me up for the game at Whitman Field in Wauwatosa.  The games were previously played at Hart Park which was destroyed by extensive flooding two years ago.

Janice brought a seat that she clamped to a bleacher seat that had a soft cushion and a back support that made a big difference in my comfort.

There were a few sprinkles, but nothing to spoil the evening.

Colin had a couple solid hits, but the opposing team dominated and the game ended when they scored 10 more than Colin's team.

We drove by the Hart Park playing field which still was unusable.

We had outdoor seating at Leff's on State Street to finish the evening.  Brad and I had the Monday build-your-own hamburgers special that included a generous selection of toppings and sides for $9.00; Janice had a cauliflower taco and salad.  Brad and I had beers; Janice, another drink.

Leff's had a very active and efficient staff that provided excellent service.  It was a perfect evening to be seated outdoors.

Sunday Movie

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Terry Miller shows a movie every Sunday, some she selects, others residents suggest.

Tonight's movie was "Waking Ned Divine", about a man who wins a huge lottery, but dies of a heart attack upon learning of it.  The movie is set in Tullamore, Ireland, the home of Tullamore Irish Whiskey.

Janice and Brad watch this movie every St. Patrick's Day while sipping this whiskey.  They also brought some to a Friday luncheon while we watched the movie.

I thought about the movie when Peter and I were at the Estabrook Park Beer Garden yesterday, and thought about getting a bottle for the movie.  Peter suggested Otto's Liquor Store on Oakland Ave.

Before the movie I told about Tullamore and the whiskey and everyone was really surprised when I also pulled out the bottle and little shot glasses from my walker.  Terry passed out glasses to anyone willing to partake, including Jackie Haessley.  

The movie was very enjoyable.  A few finished the evening with a nightcap. 

First Beer Garden

 Saturday, June 6, 2026

Today was the best so far with a slight breeze to go to our favorite beer garden: Estabrook Park.

We stopped at Walgreen's for pads, then Peter suggested getting money from the ECU ATM; that was handy, and on the way.

We found a nice shady table and had our beers; unfortunately, no tablecloth.  We also had a brat for Peter, a hot dog for me and a pretzel.  The pretzel was really too much.

One person entertained us until 6:00 p.m.

It was a perfect afternoon.

I thought about the Sunday night movie, which will be "Finding Dan Divine", which Janice and Brad watch every St. Patrick's Day with Tallomar Irish Whiskey.  How fun would that me if I brought that to our movie on Sunday!  We stopped at Otto's on Oakland and I picked up a small bottle.

Balcony Planting

 Thursday, June4, 2026

When Claude and I went to Mileager's I noticed that I had only one Bubblegum petunia.  Claude went back for a second one.  When I started planting, I noticed that he grabbed a pink petunia, but not Bubblegum; I like its trailing feature that should look nice over the balcony.

Fortunately, Laura and Jay were going to Mileager's today, but had no room for me in their SUV, but Laura would pick up the petunia, also a few coleus that died due to too wet feet.  I also asked Laura for a little potting soil.  She brought everything over in the afternoon.

When the rain stopped I did the planting and repotted the rose that I got from Colin.  It was in a small pot and dried out much too quickly.

My angel wing begonias are starting to show a lot of promise.

Memorial Day Weekend

Sunday, May 24, 2026

I have a hard time reconciling that we are celebrating Memorial Day this Monday; it seems too early.

After mass I decided to make lemon bars for the pot luck "today".  I was almost going to skip it after the skimpy offerings at the last one.  But I had some lemons, and this seemed like a popular dessert.

I took a nap until about 4:10 p.m. that gave me just in time to cut them for the pot luck.  I checked out my balcony window to see who would be helping Dwight Morgan grill chicken.  No one was there.  The pot luck is tomorrow!

Memorial Day

There were nice offerings at the Pot luck; I did not have the grilled chicken.  It was quite dry.

Grafton Concert

Saturday, May 23, 2026

I met a lady taking a cart off the elevator and after I introduced myself, she said that she was a dear friend of Hartwin Just who died recently.  When I told her my name, she said, "You are the one that sent a card".  She and Hartwin had been serious partners for about fifteen years, same as Peter and I.  I invited her to my room as I had something for her.  She was very touched when I gave her a shawl and asked if I had made it.  I did not make the one I gave her and asked if she'd like one of mine instead.  She was happy to have one with bright colors.

Peter was pretty late picking me up for the Grafton concert, but he drove faster than he ever did and we got to Grafton High School just in time.

The choir was dressed in red, white and blue; the director in colonial blue, celebrating America's 250th Birthday.  

The program included a number of patriotic songs, solos by scholarship winners and some standard arrangements.  When they sang "Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor". I wanted to add "And we'll sent them right back where they came from".

Afterward, we joined Brad, Janice and Colin at the Water Street Brewery for beers and empanadas for me, a couple tacos for Peter, which he didn't care for.

John McGinnis Funeral

 Friday, May 22, 2026

I was so apprehensive that I would get up with a lot of pain; therefore I slept in a chair last night.  I had a surprisingly restful sleep, and I didn't feel as much pain in the morning as I did when I slept in bed.

Peter was here by 9:30 and we drove to Mother of Good Counsel Church on 68th and Lisbon for the funeral of John McGinnis.

https://www.foresthomefunerals.com/john-mcginnis

As often as I drove through this area, I never noticed this beautiful church, and it was very beautiful inside.

I was expecting more Austrian American Club members, but I'm glad that we could come.  There were many neighbors, former students and friends.

A lovely service that included meaningful readings which the priest explained in his homily were a significant reflection on John's life and character, especially the Passion in the gospel of John.

We drove a short distance to Holy Cross Cemetery, which was actually across the street.  I stayed in the car while others proceeded to the gravesite, but I could still hear "Taps".

We gathered in the church basement for lunch provided by Bunzel's, and sat with John's godson and his wife, also a friend, all from Shawano.

Afterward, we drove to Bunzel's to buy some fresh liver sausage and ground chuck; Peter purchased some items also.

Plant Shopping

Monday, May 18, 2026

It was a perfect day for Mileager's.  The forecast was for thunderstorms the past week, but it was a lovely day.

Claude came about 10:30 a.m. and we drove to Racine.

We covered a lot of ground looking for what we wanted; staff was very helpful.  However, no one led us in the right direction for verbena bolisriencalis, we found it ourselves. We had a light sprinkle, but it cleared up.

We had open-faced pulled pork sandwiches when we got home.

I planted everything and cleaned up.  Very sore.

I  took a couple Tylenol to ease the acke.

I was able to sit on my balcony before going to bed.

Amazon jScrew-up

Friday, May 8, 2026

I ordered two 6-packs of toilet tissue, some head bands and cat litter on Wednesday.

I got a notice that the cat litter was delivered

Mike Bruske is so kind to deliver our parcels, and when he lifted the box I asked if he wanted a cart because 40 pounds is so heavy.  But he flung it on his shoulder with no problem. Because the box was so light, I thought it was the toilet tissue.

Another box was delivered the following day, another very light one.  Inside were 16 rolls of Viva toilet tissue!  What am I going to do with so much toilet tissue?

I replied to the Amazon question about How was my order,  but I don't think that will get anywhere.

I began calling Customer Service before going to the symphony, but there was a 30-minute wait to speak to anyone.

I tried again in the afternoon, with a lot of cursing at the robot.  None of the options apply to my problem, and any of my replies were not recognized.

I finally got a person and explained my problem.  When I told the agent that I did not have a car to return the tissue, he put me on hold while he consulted someone, then told me that my litter would arrive tomorrow and I could keep the tissue.

But Dolly didn't waste any time claiming one of the boxes.

Tumble

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

We are getting a bedbug check with the dog today.  I was trying to get Dolly into the bathroom, when she darted away, and I tried catching her.  I tumbled on my back.  I was able to get up, but with a lot of pain,

Thursday, May 7,

I started making lemon bars for the WAUC picnic, when Peter called suggesting we have lunch.  I ordered sandwiches from Panera's, Peter picked up the order and we ate at SRS.

I played dominos, but have to watch how I move; I get sharp pains if I move the wrong way.

I finished the lemon bars, moving cautiously.

I took the Lyft to the WAUC picnic, Peter joined the table with Terry, Bob and some others.  There was n abundance of food with brats, Italian sausage and chicken.

I felt mostly out of the conversation.  Feeling more miserable as the time went on.  I decided to skip BINGO and left.

Friday, May 8

I had a restful night, but had a lot of pain going to the bathroom.  I'm walking with a lot of pain, and bending is impossible.

I decided to skip the symphony.

After taking a couple Tylenols, I felt somewhat better, and could walk without too much pain, I changed my mind and went to the symphony after all.

It was an unusual program with scenes on the screen with actors along with the music.  "Mark Twain" made an appearance looking forward to the bi-centennial of our country.

Sunday, May 10

When I awoke to use the bathroom, I could barely move getting out of bed. All along my waist and into my stomach, the pain was unbearable.

I took two Tylenols hoping to make it through mass.  I was Lector 2.  I managed getting through it without too much trouble.

Peter and I picked up Annika on Menlo Blvd.; she hadn't move yet.  We backtracked and got to Brad and Janice's along with Claude, shortly after 3:00 p.m.

Monday, May 11

Again, getting out of bed was very painful.  I've been using the heating pad which seems to give me some relief.  Two Tylenols also helped my get through the MARTA luncheon.

Tuesday, May12

Another morning of agonizing pain going to the bathroom and starting the day.

Wednesday, May 13, Claude's Birthday

Claude was going to take me to Milleager's today to shop for plants for my balcony.

I called Claude a little after 8:00 a.m. and asked if he would take me to Mt. Sinai to get my back X-rayed instead of Milleager's.  He agreed; it was his first suggestion when I fell.

Admission was pretty straightforward; high blood pressure, but everything else was fine.

I was placed in Room 8 and seen be a doctor who took my information.  After checking my body for pain, he suggested a CT Scan to check not only my bones, but my internal organs.

I was hooked up to a monitor, got my blood drawn and had an IV that will put dye in my system for the scan.

I waited quite a long time for the scan to happen.  Finally, I was wheeled into a room with a machine with what looked like a huge donut.  I held my breath at intervals while the machine did its work. It would take 45 minutes to an hour to get the results.

Claude had been waiting in the waiting room all this time; I wanted him with me when I got the results.  I had a little problem calling him because he forgot his phone and was unfamiliar with my phone that he was using.  We finally connected and he waited until the doctor came.

I do not have any broken bones.  I have: Closed compression fracture of body of L1 vertebra.  No surgery is required, but I have prescription for  (HYDROcordon-acetaminophin (NORCO).

Claude hung my begonias that he had been wintering, filled my planters and did some fiddling with my computer.  

Sixty-five years ago he was born at St. Luke's Hospital; on his sixty-fifth birthday, he was with me at Mt. Sinai Hospital.

To celebrate his birthday, we had dinner at Harry's Bar and Grill.

Disaster Cookies

 Sunday, April 26, 2026

Laura gave me the recipe for the potato chip cookies that I liked so much at Christmas.  I planned to make them for James Bruske's memorial service Monday evening. The recipe called for 2 cups of butter; that's 4 sticks, a whole pound.  I never made a recipe with a whole pound of butter.  There was no way to shape them into balls, but I used my 1 Tbsp. measuring spoon as a scoop.  In the oven they spread out very, very thin.  I couldn't imagine what I did wrong.

When I called Laura she said that she couldn't couldn't understand it either. She showed me her recipe, I showed her mine.  They were identical except for butter.  Then she realized what she did.  She doubled the recipe and instead of typing 2 sticks of butter, she typed 2 cups.

Monday, April 26

Even though the cookies might be edible, I did not want to apologize for cookies that were not perfect.  I decided to make another batch.  I used unsalted butter, and the rest of my flour.  Luckily I had enough of the other ingredients.

The result was much better.

I melted the chocolate that Laura gave me by putting it in a stainless steel bowl and putting the bowl in the small colander over boiling water.

W

We've been having violent winds; I saw the big couch move on the piazza, and chairs are tumbled all over the place. Our power is out in some areas; I have full power.

Jackie Haessley texted me that the memorial service scheduled for this evening has been postponed until sometime in May.

Variety Show

Friday, April 17, 2026

I'm the defense attorney in a play based on Hansel and Gretel, called "The Case of the Candy Cottage".  We read the play in one of our play reading sessions and Cheri Franch and I though it would be a good  addition.  Kathleen Narlock is the judge, Sue Cottrell is the prosecuting attorney, Barbara Todd is the bailiff and Edie Zutz is Ms Whitch.

I took a photo of this woodcut at the Racine Art Museum of the story of Hansel and Gretel.

We have some pretty nice talent at SRS.  

We did a kind of dress rehearsal and Diane Johnson wanted to include a play script that she had ready. It was a phone conversation between a husband and wife, with the husband going into a German concentration camp.  Sheri and I were sitting close to each other, both of us rolling our eyes about how inappropriate this is.  When Diane finished I said, "Diane, You are going to hate me", and I repeated it.  And then I told her that the variety show is lighthearted and funny, but her selection is very dark and depressing.  Others added to my comments; I think everyone was too afraid the speak up.

At 1:00 p.m. the church basement was beginning to fill up with our audience.  The front row was reserved for performers and anyone wearing a prayer shawl.

I was the first to perform with a knitting poem created by AI:

In a world of yarn and needles we dance

With knitting in hand we give yarn a chance.

Crafting caps for the winter’s cold,

Shawls that wrap around stories untold.

Scarves that carry warmth down the line,

And dishcloths made sturdy, each one a design.

In each knit and purl, a little piece of art,

Knitting together threads of a cozy heart.

I read the poem while showing a knitted cap, shawl, scarf and dish cloth.

Marilyn Minor followed with "Stardust", Lanore Lee sang "I can't say 'No', Cecile Langford and Dwight Morgan were "Sisters" and Cheri Franch mimed Avery Aten singing "I don't want to have a good day.

Talent, entertainment and a lot of fun.

 

April Red Hat Lunch/New Laptop

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Janice Rochwerger, Terry Harvey, Rita Bruce, Jane Warzala, June Krueger, Kathy Schmagl and I were pleased with our luncheon at the Egg Roll House on Hwy. 100.  Terry was extremely concerned that she found her cat/s were not using the litter box during her trip to see Alyssa; Jane is recovering nicely from knee surgery and concluded with laptop suggestions.  Julia Rice sprained her leg; Joy Kiliman did not respond.

I clipped some branches from the dead decorations by the front entrance to use as a trellis for my rosary plant, and then worked on putting that in place, resulting in a mess of plant material on the floor after the apartment was cleaned yesterday.

I tried again  adding the new channels to my TV, this time connecting the cable directly to the TV with no results and sore fingers from trying to screw the cable.

I ordered groceries from Metro Market.

I didn't have anything prepared to read for the Literary Reading, but went to listen to Barbara Todd, Jackie Haessley and Avery Aden read their selections.

Laptop

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Terry cautioned me that Microsoft will not be supporting Windows 10, and I should be considering getting a new computer because my desktop does not have enough memory to install Windows 11.  She highly recommended a laptop.

At Red Hat, I asked Terry what she thought I should get.

Terry and I were on the phone with her recommendations for a laptop.  We settled on a Lonovo Idea Pad.

https://www.bestbuy.com/product/lenovo-ideapad-slim-3-15-6-full-hd-touchscreen-laptop-amd-ryzen-7-5825u-2025-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-arctic-grey/JJGSH2ZQWS/sku/6610889

It will be delivered on Friday.

Thursday, April 16  

A package was at my door; it didn't seem heavy enough to be a laptop, but it was.

I connected to St. Rita's wifi and practiced on the keypad and touchpad. The keypad seems better than the one with my desktop, but even though I'm getting familiar with the touchpad, I have a hard time finding the mouse.  Terry directed me to where I could adjust the size and speed of the mouse.

There's only a trial version of Office, but at the WAUC meeting Tom said that I could purchase the entire suite for about $30.

BLOG:  I was really frustrating trying to write my blog, I kept losing my text, the text got highlighted and then deleted.

OFFICE: I was petrified downloading Office, for fear I was going to screw something up; should I wait for Claude? But I got brave and downloaded the suite from a site that I found. I submitted my payment and the sale was complete.  I expected an email or notice with a license, but nothing came.  When I scrolled down it asked for payment, but I already paid.  I checked my credit card account; it was charged.  I looked in my download file; nothing there.  As a last resort, I tried opening a Word document; it functioned perfectly.  It was installed instantly.  What a relief!

FILES:  I copied a few folders from my desktop to the laptop using a thumb drive; but that would take extremely long with the small capacity of a thumb drive and the huge amount on my files. Hopefully, Claude could help with a cable.

PRINTER: I couldn't install my printer; I could not find The PIN for the printer; another task for Claude.

ZOOM: I had no problem installing ZOOM, but had a  problem connecting to WAUC.  Don corrected the problem, but my image was foggy and blurry.  When Terry mentioned that I had a new computer, Tom asked if I still had tape over the camera.  I did. After removing the tape, everything worked fine.

CLAUDE: I had a list for Claude when he came on Saturday, the 25th.  First on the list was transferring files.  He attempted doing it using file sharing, but the laptop didn't recognize the desktop for some reason.  He spent a good deal of time trying different approaches, but ended up putting the files on my external hard drive and copying them from it.  It would have taken an impossibly long time copying 47,569 photos.  We had a good laugh when the laptop could not find the drive. After searching around, I helped by telling him that it was not connected to the laptop.  Claude connected a mouse that he thought was more efficient than the touchpad.  He also pointed out how sensitive the touchpad is, causing unwanted screen errors.  He had no problem connecting my printer.

He ended the day putting batteries in my digital clock and setting it up.

PUZZLE: Terry is hooked on Jigsaw Planet and suggested that I try it. Moving the pieces using the touchpad is not easy.  I have to tap each piece twice and hold it to put in place. I'd lose it often before finding a place for it.  Now that Claude added a mouse, I click and hold a piece and slide it into place.  It works much better.

Swap Fest & Half Way to Octoberfest

Saturday, April 11, 2026

I had the toaster oven on my walker heading to the elevator to add it to the swap fest, and then turned around, thinking that maybe my neighbor Mark Doering might have use for it.  I knocked on his door and offered him the oven.  He said he was always thinking about getting one, but now he hesitated about making room for another appliance.  I gave him a sales pitch on how useful it was and in good condition.  He agreed to give it a try and if he didn't care for it he was free to return it and I'd have Peter drop it off at Good Will.

We received a print-out of all the cable channels that were added, including one to watch Brewer games.  I spent most of the afternoon unplugging, disconnecting and connecting, trying a different  remote and changing batteries, all without success.

Peter called for me a little early for our 4:15 p.m. reservation at the Bavarian Bierhaus, and that gave us a little time to check out the swap items.  It took Peter less than five minutes to find a very sturdy metal shoe slide; he was overjoyed with that find.  I donated a thermos and picked up a large container of Metamucil and some plant food.

Claude joined us at the Bavarian BierHaus for Half Way to Octoberfest. 

We had beers and a couple of appetizer plates.

We enjoyed music, plus the usual table performances, with money tucked into knee socks that will be donated to worthy causes.

I forgot my knitting bag with my dishcloth project, but someone turned it in and I'll be able to retrieve it.

Symphony

Friday, April 10, 2026

Blake Van Egeren drove eight of us to the Milwaukee Symphony for another delightful experience to witness beautiful music.  I feel so fortunate that I am able to attend these marvelous concerts.  The program opened with Anton Webern's Passacaglia, Opus 1, and  featured Robert Schumann with Russian pianist Pelina Osetinskaya giving a powerful performance of his Concerto in a minor, Opus 54, with two encores: June: Barcarolle from The Seasons, by P. Tchaikowsky and Ich ruf zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639, by J.S. Bach. The orchestra concluded with Dmitri Shostakovich's Symphony no. 1 in F minor.

I joined the group preparing for our variety show.  I read my knitting poem and took two parts in "The Case of the Candy Cottage".  It should be pretty funny.

My air fryer was delivered, also a very nice top from Land's End.  I unpacked the air fryer, which was quite light and takes less space on my counter than my toaster oven.  I cleaned up the toaster oven intending to have Peter drop it off at Good Will.  And then I realized that SRS was having a Swap Fest tomorrow; I decided to donate it there.

I read through the recipe book included with the air fryer and it is obvious it was made in an Eastern country with most of the recipes having an Asian flavor.

Easter 2026

Sunday, April 5, 2026

After I lectored I Zoomed the 10:30 a.m. mass at St. Joseph's in Grafter to hear Janice. 20:59

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp9UtGOuYQQ&t=5180s 

That didn't give me much time to be ready for Peter to pick me up and then Annika for our Easter dinner at Jay and Laura's,

Appetizers were already on the living room cocktail table.  I loved the puff pastry jelly bites (they really did have a "bite").

Each plate had one of Laura's coasters in his/her favorite color.

Peter's had the colors of the German flag.

I filled baskets with a spring mix from Nuts.com.  (My second-floor neighbors also found a basket on each shelf).

We feasted on a most delicious ham, scalloped potatoes, a salad of arugula and mandarin oranges and a round loaf of home made bread.  Janice provided a dessert of cake with shaved ice balls.

We enjoyed visiting before and after the meal on this most wonderful Easter.

 

Peeps and "Roberts"

 Friday, April 3, 2026

Blake drove us to the Racine Art Museum for the annual Peep show.  This year it is in a much larger hall that made viewing more pleasurable with a nice flow of traffic.

Imagination was on display with creative ways to put Peeps into the design.

I chose Three Little Peeps as my favorite,

and Peepal Conclave second.

There was the Liberty Bell

and Cookie Anderson's entry, "Collective Nouns: Peeps!

All of us, Donna Scalese, Cookie Anderson, Mary, Cheri Franch myself, Steve Bruss, Donna Schier and Cecile Langford enjoyed the display with lunch afterward at the Red Onion.

I chose On the Clock for our fish fry.  I entered the address, 4301 S. Howell Ave., thinking it would be farther south.  It was the same building as Roberts, one of my most favorite restaurants where we'd go for brandy Alexanders with cream, not soft serve.  We were seated immediately by the window and had Riverwest Steins with our two pieces of large perch that came with half-rye, cole slaw and thin French fries.  The meal was very good.

I talked to the owner as we were leaving who said that this really is the old Robert's.  He changed the name to attract a younger clientele.  They are open every day at 11:00 a.m. 

Y-oY-o Ma

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

I had the special chicken parmesan dinner at 5:00 p.m.  The hot vegetable soup was delicious and hot.  The main course was tepid to cold (vegetables, pasta).

I had plenty of time to change clothes for the 8:00 p.m. symphony concert with Y-o Y-o Ma.

        

When we first learned about the concert, Marilyn Minor offered me a ride with her friend Kevin.  I approached her today and she said that Kevin does not drive any more and she is riding with someone else.  That left me without a ride, since others seemed to have full cars.  I arranged for a Lyft.  Marilyn called to tell me that Cookie Anderson has room in the car she is riding in.  Cookie was able to include me with her friend June, who was driving and Barbara Todd.  June arranged for valet service, and dropped us off at the door.

The hall was filling fast.  Chuck and Bonnie Zahnow sat in front of me.  Many SRS residents arranged to be here also.  The seats behind the orchestra reserved for the chorus were completely filled.

A representative of Mayor Johnson presented Conductor Ken-David Masur with an award honoring him for his contributions to the symphony and the community.

Conductor Masur opened with Beethoven's Symphony No. 8, that got a standing ovation.

After a long intermission came the thrill of the evening.  Y-o Y-o Ma came on stage with his cello, and was welcomed with sustained applause.

Needless to see his playing of Anton Dvorak's Cello Concerto in B minor was magnificent.  I was completely entranced.  I had a perfect view of him which made my evening complete.

After thunderous applause and Brovos, he could not escape without an encore.  He and the orchestra played "Adoration", again with great appreciation from the audience.

I think everyone in the audience left rather in a trance, not believing that they were able to witness this momentous event.

https://enewspaper.jsonline.com/?token=bf7d830783675f886b68fa9b12f55d31&cnum=1ce966b7-d16b-e611-904c-90b11c343abd&fod=1111111STD-0&selDate=20260327&licenseType=paid_subscriber&

We went to the main entrance where we thought would be the place to claim the car.  June was directed to the large reception hall where a long line had formed with the same purpose.

Standing behind us was Concertmaster Jinwoo Lee who looked taller than he looked on stage (and he was smiling!).  I asked to shake the hand that shook the hand of Y-o Y-o Ma and we laughed because his hand had become quite sought after.

We finally got to the podium where June could present her claim ticket and waited about 15 minutes until a valet brought up the car.  Those guys really earn their money, the way they have to run to fetch cars.  The cost of the service is $40.

On the way back to SRS all the talk was about how wonderful we felt with this perfect evening.

Follow-up With Dr. Gundamraj

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Dave from Eastside Senior Services was at SRS at 8:30 a.m. to drive me to my 9:15 a.m. appointment.  He had called me on Sunday to arrange the pick-up.  Dave mentioned the I94 construction, and I told him that by taking Pleasant Street all the way to Burleigh we would not be on the freeway.

Dave is retired from Harley Davidson and has been offering rides for about three years.  We had a pleasant conversation along the way about his wife's teaching, his boat and Harley.

The Physician's Assistant took my blood pressure and commented that it was high at 162.

Dr. Gundamraj came into the room some time later and my blood pressure dropped to 110!  She liked that number better.  She continues to be amazed at how well I look.  Everything looked fine.

I'll see Dr. G again in six months and will have my lab work done before my visit since I don't have a car to make a special trip to a clinic.

I waited about ten minutes for Dave to pick me up for the trip back to SRS.