Antik

It would have been fun to buy these.


Annika loved this teeter-totter.

How cute!

Some of the many wardrobes.

Wisteria

Lumbar and other pieces from old buildings.

Today after dropping Josiah at pre-school, Rachel took Annika and me to some German Antik stores about 10 miles out of Stuttgart. We took an exit prematurely and were treated to winding narrow roads where we saw many fruit orchards and fields and fields of gardens where there were long rows of tall mounds of dirt, some covered completely in plastic. I'm guessing potatoes were planted there, but can't be sure. We passed a small stand where a woman was selling white asparagus. She had several customers. There was also a large field of gladiolas popping out of the ground. This should be a great place to visit from time to time this summer and fall to see what is being offered.

Once arriving at the Antik (antique) stores, we ventured into the first one. It was two floors of mostly furniture - much of it large - some new, some old. If you're looking for a wardrobe, head over here. The selection is unbelievable. There were many dining sets and small tables, some with drawers. I saw many darling hutches, but of course could not even think of getting one. I had my eye open for dishes or glassware, but nothing really knocked my socks off.

Annika enjoyed seeing some of the old toys - such as doll houses, typewriters, and a very old, dirty stuffed dog. She didn't get to buy it.

We wandered through a couple of others shops that were in the vicinity. Rachel bought a pretty salt glazed pitcher. It looked quite old, but was in very good shape.

We ate lunch at a new Mc Donald's next to the Stuttgart airport. It had contemporary furniture, plus a Mc Cafe - offering lattes and delectable desserts. I had a new sandwich called the Mc Royale - which was like a quarter-pound California burger - and a chocolate milk. Now the chocolate milk is interesting: they serve a bottle of white milk and a chocolate powdered-filled straw. I must have sucked the chocolate too voraciously, because I ran out of chocolate before I ran out of milk. Then I treated myself to a chocolate chunk cookie, which was very good.

Josiah's T-ball practice this afternoon was cancelled due to rain. That was 2 hours ago. The sun is now shining brightly. I hope they are able to play their game tomorrow because it will be my only chance to go. His team is the A's, and he has been sporting an Oakland A's hat since I got here. He wears it almost all day long.

Tuesday

Yesterday Annika and I spent a little time together while Rachel and Josiah went to his school and then out shopping with some of his birthday money. He's been doing some small jobs around the house and earning a little money, too. So combining his funds gave him enough to buy some trains he has been wanting. He's turning into a little helper at home!

In the afternoon, Annika, Rachel and I went to a large store - Real - to shop while Josiah was in school. This is a large store - on the order of a Super Target, only much larger. I was able to look around and bought quite a few small treasures to bring home. I've been looking for Edelweiss seeds, but up to now have had no luck. I did purchase an Edelweiss plant the other day, but won't be able to bring it home.

I've played trains with Josiah and read books to Annika. We've spent time at the park on the base and also baked cookies. All three of us have had fun coloring and watching videos. Last night we watched Wallace and Gromit. It was really cute! I think Peder and Sarah would like it for Aurelia. I believe it takes place in Scotland.

Last night Hans called and all of us got to talk to him for a little bit. It was really nice to hear his voice again. He misses his family very much. Hopefully he'll be home soon.

Today is Wednesday. We'll see what it holds.

Bragging About My Grandchildren

This post is about bragging. I don't think I have done it very often, but tonight I can't help it. I have four darling, smart, charming grandchildren! You're thinking I'm prejudiced. I think I'm being proud (I know, the Amish wouldn't approve).

Tonight Annika, Josiah and I read a book together called, I Spy with My Little Eye Minnesota. This is a book of photos, two - side by side, but with differences, all taken in Minnesota. The idea is to find the differences. On one page, there are two photos with 24 subtle differences. Do you know what? Josiah and Annika found nearly all of them without any assistance from me.

At bedtime, I took one of the dozen or so library books to Josiah's room. He read the entire book, Mr. Gumpy's Outing, to me. I would guess it is 2nd grade level reading, though I can't be certain. Some of the words it contains are: squabble, muck, bleating, trample, flapped, and teased. I thought this was a difficult book for a first grade child. However, Josiah is not in first grade. He hasn't even started kindergarten yet. He turns 5 years old a week from today and starts kindergarten this fall.

Rain

Last night while watching some TV, we heard very loud thunder. I wasn't sure it was thunder - and wondered if it could be low flying jets. After all, we are on a military base. But soon there was no doubt. It rained, and rained, and rained, and then the hail started. It was so loud.

Little Annika came out of her room. I'm sure she was concerned from all the noise. We let her stay up for awhile.

Poor Rachel ran to the outside door to see if her new car was being dented. Of course, she didn't dare go out in the storm. I just looked out the window, and as far as I can tell, everything looks fine.

ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddhhhhhhmmmmlllllllllllllllllnnnnnnnpp (this was written by Annika).

Back from the Alps

Friday we drove south to the Alps to the town of Garmisch and stayed at the lovely Edelweiss Resort and Lodge. The view from our windows and deck are gorgeous snow-covered mountains - including Zugspitze, the tallest mountain in Germany. Last year, around this same time, I was privileged to go here and we took the tram to the top of Zugspitze and ate in the restaurant there - which is partly in Germany and partly in Austria.

It so happened the town of Garmisch was celebrating the start of spring, so a festival was taking place. We took in part of it Friday night - listening to a polka band for a little bit and watching Josiah and Annika on a carousel. We also went to a wonderful store in which I bought a very pretty German sweater. This store has ready-made and custom made dirndls, plus other Bavarian style clothing. They're all just beautiful - and expensive. We concluded the evening with Italian ice cones. Yum!

Saturday morning Josiah and I went back to town and browsed and shopped for a little while. This is the first time I've gotten to do this. He was so good. We went to a toy store and he picked out a metal car. We wandered from shop to shop, and even sat through most of a puppet show - totally in German. This was so fun because it was interactive with the puppets and the German children in the audience. When the children laughed, so did Josiah. It was so cute.

Rachel and Annika picked us up and we went for a gorgeous drive in the area. Rachel doesn't worry about getting lost because "Dora" - her GPS - can fight her way out of a gunny sack - well, most of the time. After driving through a few small, picturesque villages, we found a spot for a picnic. While setting up the food, Josiah turned over a rock and to his surprise, there was a snail attached to it. It became quite the conversation topic. He named him Cotorockto (sp). It took some convincing that he couldn't come along with us, and that he probably wouldn't eat greens. After we returned to the lodge, we swam in the pool. I also spent some time in the hot tub - outdoors - where the view is the Alps. This just doesn't happen in Minnesota.

Poor Josiah woke up with the stomach flu this morning, so our trip back to Stuttgart was interesting. We've been home a little while now and he seems to be lots better.

To all you mothers out there - Happy Mother's Day!

I'm in Germany!

I had two very good flights bringing me to Germany today. In Minneapolis, I had a rainbow out the plane window for my send-off. How fitting. We flew up over Lake Superior, Nova Scotia, Greenland, Ireland, England, and then The Netherlands, where I had a couple of hours lay-over. Over Ireland I saw the stone fences separating the farms (so charming). Approaching England, I saw at least 7 freighters. Next we were either over northern England or Scotland. I saw an airport that may have been Preswick, Scotland.

Off and on there was cloud cover, so I watched the movie Hotel for Dogs. It was cute and had a good ending. I slept about 3 hours total, so I'm a bit wiped.

I thought I had been in Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam, years ago, but either it has changed A LOT, or my memory of it has faded. It's huge - long, long run ways. There are canals running through part of the airport. We landed an hour early, so I figured there was time to shop. But I hadn't counted on having to go through customs and security, which took extra time. I did look in a few stores, but only bought a couple of things. Hans had seen a toy called Girders and Panels when he was there last fall and suggested I look for that for Josiah's 5th birthday, coming up on the 19th, but the lady at the toy store said they didn't have it. She hadn't heard of it.

The flight to Stuttgart was only an hour. It was cloudy over Amsterdam, but cleared off as we made our way over Germany. I think I saw the Rhine River, but can't be sure. I love the red clay rooftops. Rachel, Josiah and Annika were there to meet me. Josiah came running up saying, "Grandma! Grandma!" Annika was shy at first. She's a little young yet.

We've been home a couple of hours - boy, it's smelling good in here - Rachel is making dinner. The kids are quietly playing. I've had big hugs from both of them. It's such a joy!

Rosy's First Communion

Today I attended Rosy's first communion. She attends a Catholic church that is totally Spanish speaking. I assumed it would be that way, so I was prepared to stand when others stood, etc. When I arrived, the parishioners from the previous service were exiting the building. Many of the children were dressed in fine white clothes. I waited until the sanctuary was nearly empty and then I went in and found a seat near the front, along the center aisle. I hadn't made plans to meet Rosy's family, though they knew I was going to attend.

About two minutes after I sat down, I realized I hadn't brought my camera. Stupid! How could I forget to bring it for such an important occasion? It was too late to go home to get it, so I tried my best to memorize everything I saw. First of all, the Hispanic people are beautiful people. They have raven black hair. The children look like models. Secondly, the adults are friendly - offering smile after smile. It was very interesting watching everyone come in - not understanding one single word being spoken near me. Talk about a great place to watch people. I thought about my cousin, Pat.

The mass started at 1 pm with a lay person giving what seemed to be a short speech. This was followed by an amazing choir - a female director with a gorgeous voice, who also played the guitar (it may have been a twelve string - but I'm not sure if that's what it is called), and two other adult guitarists - one a brother, complete with the brown robe and rope belt. [I apologize to the Roman Catholics who may be reading this, because I do not know the correct terminology.] There were about 10 young singers, perhaps elementary and junior high age. One played the tambourine, another the castanets. I loved their songs and spirit. I thought of my choir mates and knew how much they would have enjoyed this music.

Next was the parade of children who would be receiving their first communion, led by altar boys and girls. I can't describe how lovely the girls looked and how handsome the boys looked. The girls were all in white, wearing white veils, and carrying white candles. Most of the boys were in white suits, and had a ribbon around their left upper arm from which hung a photo of Jesus (I think it was Jesus). I tried to see Rosy, but I missed her because she looked so different. For one thing, she wasn't wearing her glasses.

After a couple of songs, the priest spoke while holding a waste paper basket. Twice he took an empty, plastic water bottle and a Pepsi can out of the basket and put it back in. Once he removed a cardboard carton and then returned it. I don't know if this was part of the homily, or if was a announcement about recycling, but I did notice everyone was listening intently. Eventually the communion portion of the service began. Each young candidate (probably not the correct term) came up to partake. When Rosy's name was announced, I couldn't help but cry. She stood, walked to the front with perfect poise, partook, and returned to her seat. What happened to my eight year old little girl? She looked so grown up.

After the children had their first communion, the congregation participated in communion. I would estimate there were three hundred, or more, people in attendance. I watched for Rosy's parents or grandparents to pass by the pew in which I was sitting, but I never saw them. At the conclusion of communion, the priest called each child to the front. He placed around their necks a ribbon that had a photo of Mary on it and then gave them a certificate. The children went to the altar and stood in formation for a group photo. The audience applauded. It was then that Rosy noticed me and smiled. She was just lovely!

The children followed the priest to the back of the church where each one had their photo taken with the him, next to a statue of Mary. I asked the young boy seated next to me if we were free to exit and he told me yes. He and his family were so nice.

I walked to the back where I saw Rosy's father - with his video camera. I think he had filmed the entire mass. Rosy came out of the little room following her photo with the priest and I got to see her close up. Her dress had been ordered from Mexico and it was just beautiful. Her hair had been parted into little rows (similar to corn rows, but not braided), and small, tiny white round barrettes held it in place. It was pulled back and held by a full veil. She had on pearl dangle earrings and matching bracelet, and white strap shoes. She was stunning - a vision. Drat! How could I have forgotten my camera??? Her mother asked if we could step outside so she could take a picture of Rosy and me. She told Rosy to tell me she would get me a print. Next I was invited to their home for a reception, but I had to decline so I could go home to pack my bags.

It is a blessing for me to know Rosy and to be a part of her life - an unexpected blessing.

Getting Ready to Travel

I think it was back in February I made flight plans to travel to Germany to visit Rachel, Josiah, and Annika. It seemed so far away then - - but the time has flown, at least for me. I leave this coming Wednesday. Am I ready? Not yet. But I'm working on it.

I've been busy with my regularly scheduled activities and work, but there have been some extra things thrown in there too. One of my cousins (by marriage) died and I went to her funeral in Le Center last Saturday. I'm glad I got to go because I saw cousins I hadn't seen in a long time. Then later that day, my choir had its annual music festival. Four choirs from the twin cities joined ours for a wonderful concert. There were 310 voices and a 40 piece orchestra, plus about 1500 guests in the audience. Rachel's aunt and uncle came and I got to visit with them before taking my place with my choir. This is an event I look forward to every year. For me, it feels like a taste of what Heaven will be: choirs, grandchildren, and desserts! When you put that many people in one place with everyone singing because of the love they have for music, the roof nearly raises off the building. It was a fulfilling day.

Yesterday after work I drove to Rochester and my brother and I went to a dinner sponsored by the college we had attended. Once again, we saw friends from the past. After a delicious dinner, we listened to the guest speaker, Joe Sensor, a former Minnesota Vikings player. It was an inspirational time.

This morning Jerry, Janet and I are going to spend some time together talking about what our final wishes may be. We're getting to the place where some decisions may need to be made (don't worry - there is NOTHING wrong with any of us) and I felt it would make sense to have discussed it. I hear from friends that their loved one had this or that and they were left to decide things without a plan. Also, we just wanted to spend some time together.

When I get home later today, I'll pull out my bags and begin to pack them. Monday and Tuesday are booked solid for me, so I need to be fully ready by Sunday night. Wish me luck.

Josiah, Annika and Rachel - see you Thursday afternoon!

We're Getting Some Much Needed Rain

You know that little ditty you learned when you were small - April showers bring May flowers. Well we've had to wait a long time to get our first April shower, but we're being blessed today with rain. It's amazing to see the grass turn a beautiful green. Little leaves on the trees and bushes in my yard are ready to burst open. It's chilly - my furnace is still running - but the future looks hopeful. I think I'll unpack my spring clothes.

A Quiz for People Who Know Everything

This is a quiz for people who know everything! I found out in a hurry that I didn't. These are not trick questions. They are straight questions with straight answers.


1. Name the one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.

2. What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?

3. Of all vegetables, only two can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons. All other vegetables must be replanted every year. What are the only two perennial vegetables?

4. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?

5. In many liquor stores, you can buy pear brandy, with a real pear inside the bottle. The pear is whole and ripe, and the bottle is genuine; it hasn't been cut in any way. How did the pear get inside the bottle?

6. Only three words in standard English begin with the letters " dw" and they are all common words. Name two of them.

7. There are 14 punctuation marks in English grammar. Can you name at least half of them?

8. Name the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh.

9. Name 6 or more things that you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter "S."


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Answers To Quiz:
1. The one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends: Boxing

2. North American landmark constantly moving backward: Niagara Falls (The rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.).

3. Only two vegetables that can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons:
Asparagus and rhubarb.

4. The fruit with its seeds on the outside: Strawberry.

5. How did the pear get inside the brandy bottle? It grew inside the bottle. The bottles are placed over pear buds when they are small, and are wired in place on the tree. The bottle is left in place for the entire growing season. When the pears are ripe, they are snipped off at the stems.

6. Three English words beginning with dw: Dwarf, dwell and dwindle.

7. Fourteen punctuation marks in English grammar: Period, comma, colon, semicolon, dash, hyphen, apostrophe, question mark, exclamation point, quotation mark, brackets, parenthesis, braces, and ellipses.

8. The only vegetable or fruit never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form but fresh: Lettuce.

9. Six or more things you can wear on your feet beginning with "S": Shoes, socks, sandals, sneakers, slippers, skis, skates, snowshoes, stockings, stilts.

Changes

Nothing seems to stay the same. Kids grow up, dust accumulates, hair changes to gray. The longer I'm at my job, more duties are added. (I'm not complaining. It translates to job security - or as secure as one can feel these uncertain days.)

I've lived in my current home nearly 11 years. In that amount of time my dear neighbors across the hall moved away. I really enjoyed them. They were both retired school teachers - Helen taught Latin; Harry taught French. His parents were missionaries to China. When he and his sister turned 18 and 19, respectively, the folks sent them to the USA to attend St. Olaf college in Northfield. It was there that Harry met and fell in love with Helen. I used to go across the hall to visit them and ended up staying two or three hours. Harry loved to talk. And he was interesting. He would watch my cats when I was gone on vacation. Eventually Helen began to show signs of Alzheimer's, so they moved away. It was sad to see them go. I still miss them.

This past Saturday my upstairs neighbor moved away. He and his wife had lived here 22-1/2 years. They moved in when the building was new. From my first day here, I got the impression his wife didn't like me. I remember that day so well . . . it was July 30 and very warm outside. My sister and her husband, my brother, Peder, and and my nephew, Keith, helped out. My niece's husband, Bobby, may have been there too. At any rate, it was a big job, and trip after trip, we came in and out the door. I noticed Barbara in the window above my cottage - watching everything going on. I'm sure she was curious about who her new neighbor(s) was. I always wondered why she didn't come down to greet us, or to offer cold water or lemonade - but that's another story. Anyway, she died this past September and her poor husband struggled to live here alone these past months. He is getting frail; fell a few times - giving me a scare; and barely managed the long flight of stairs. Now his unit is up for sale. Who will be my new neighbor? More change.

Tonight one of my cousins phoned to say his mom, Lillian, passed away today. She had been in a nursing home in St. Peter for several years. I remember her as a very sweet, gentle lady - and a good cook. As kids, we went to their house and always had a great time. I saw her last year at her 90th birthday party. Another cousin died unexpectedly two weeks ago. He was only 52. More change.

Announcement: I'm on track with the rest of the family!

Announcement: I now have high speed Internet service plus call waiting! You should no longer get a busy signal when I'm working on my computer. Go ahead, you can call me. I would love to hear from you.

One Happy Grandma

Bless Rachel's parents for inviting me to their home today for Easter dinner. I had such a good time visiting with them and the rest of the family: Grandma Kuehl, Eli and his family, Gen and her family, and Rachel's Uncle Phil and Aunt Laura. The little ones: Leah, Sammy, Aaron and Gus are adorable! Aaron, Gus and Leah have beautiful light blue eyes; Sammy's are dark chocolate brown. Pete and Jan are looking great! And the dinner was delicious!

When I got home, I turned on my computer to check for emails and updated blogs. (I still have dial-up. The appointment for high-speed got rescheduled for the 18th, so I'm limping along.) To my delight, Rachel had posted pictures of the Easter egg hunt today at Patch Barracks. Josiah and Annika were so cute. What an amazing sight - - military families, far from home, sharing this precious time together. It seemed like hundreds of children having fun - many of them dressed up. You can check it out here. I said a prayer for all of them. What a sacrifice they're making - being away from loved ones. You don't know how proud they make me.

Next I checked Peder and Sarah's blogs. Looks like they were decorating eggs today. Aurelia looks so serious while dipping her egg. You can see photos here.

Maybe Heidi will post a new entry tomorrow (no pressure, only if she has time) to celebrate Marshall's 5th month mark. He is so cute!

I never knew I would love being a grandma so much. But I sure do!

Good News!

This morning was the first morning in months (5+) that I didn't feel the need to wear my leather mittens while driving to work. And not only that, I purposely left my coat at home before returning to the office following my lunch! This is good news! Let's hope we're in a pattern of good days here.

A little of this and that . . .

I've been home only one night this week - Tuesday. I like having things to do, being involved, keeping active, but every day and most every night is a bit much. Tonight I sang in a select choir at my church for the Maundy Thursday services. One of the anthems was difficult - Crucifixus by J. S. Bach. Since this choir was smaller than our regular choir, our seating arrangement was altered. I found it difficult to hear the others in my section, and the accompaniment wasn't helpful. Hopefully the congregation wasn't familiar with this piece and didn't catch our mistakes.

Did you happen to see the full moon tonight? It was just coming up over the skyline as I was driving home. What a glorious sight -- huge and golden.

Last night I came home to a darling message on my answering machine: my darling granddaughter, Annika, calling from Germany to thank me for her Easter card. I loved hearing her sweet voice, and listening to her tell Rachel that she couldn't hear me - she's too young to understand voicemail. I called her back today to thank her for calling. She wasn't in the mood to talk, but Josiah was. He told me about his new train, Gordon, and told me I could play trains with him when I come to visit next month. Isn't that cute? Oh, how I miss those kids - and Rachel and Hans. By the way, please continue to pray for them. Hans is still in Afghanistan and the days get long for Rachel and the kids with him away.

Saturday morning takes me back to church for an extra choir rehearsal for our Easter services. Saturday afternoon I'll be driving to St. James for a family Easter dinner with Rachel's parents and siblings. I promised I would give her little niece and nephews a hug from her.

Sunday morning I'll be back at church singing for five services: 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12. After that, I'll probably go home, put on my pajamas, and crash for the rest of the day.

I wish everyone a blessed Easter.

Moments That Forever Change Our Lives

It was 49 years ago this morning that my sister and I got the news of our mother's death. What a blow! It took a long time for me to be able to talk about it without crying -- such a life-changing event. April 6 never passes without me recalling it. I write this not for the purpose of getting sympathy - just noting how some moments come along that forever change our lives.

Excellent "Grandma" Time

Aurelia and baby doll listening to the giraffe.
Singing and clapping.

This photo was taken just before she rocked the chair over on it's back. It startled her, but she didn't cry.

Aurelia is one of my precious grandchildren and I'm happy that she got to come for a sleep-over at my house last night. She plays so cute with a doll and cradle of mine, plus a couple of stuffed animals. She loves my canary, Peppi. I was amazed to learn that she knows where her eyes, ears, nose, mouth, teeth, chin, cheeks, elbow, knee and toes are. When I would say, "Where is Grandma?", she would point to me. She points to herself and says, "Relia." I taught her to say the names of her cousins: Joe Joe, Annie, and Marshall. We pointed to their pictures on my refrigerator. She saw Mama and Daddy's pictures there too.

She loves to play the piano, and is gentle with the keys. Before taking a book from a stack or the giraffe puppet from a basket, she looks at me and points, as if asking permission. What a delight!

After a good night's sleep, Sarah and Peder came and took us to breakfast. I had a great time. I think Aurelia did too.

I long for the time when all of my grandchildren can come to my home together.

I've Made My Move: I'm Joining the 21st Century

At last, I'm going to join the "modern" people in my family. I just got off the phone from ordering high speed Internet service! I believe I am the last one to have dial-up. Now when you call my home, you won't be getting a constant busy signal. I'll be able to upload photos on this blog from the comfort of my cottage! And opening Facebook won't take 20 minutes. The installation is scheduled for Saturday, April 11.

Saturday Morning with Rosy

First time using a sifter. She did a great job!

Dustings of sugar on Rosy's cute face and arms.

Rosy treated the cookies with care. She didn't break any of them!

Proud of cookies.

Hormel Wranglers. Yum!

Reading while the cookies baked.

I brought Rosy to my home yesterday to spend some time together and to bake cookies. I had shown my home to her more than a year ago - just a quick walk through. This time she would get to see Peppi and we could visit and have some fun.

First we mixed icing for the cut-out cookies (bunnies and chicks). Then I showed her how to decorate them. While the cookies dried, we baked chocolate chip cookies (every one's favorite, right?). She told me she had never helped with this before and thought it was fun. I let her do as much as possible - sift the powdered sugar, stir in the butter, food coloring and flavoring, shake the sprinkles, and form the balls of dough. Math even played a part as she was adding dozen to dozen, totaling 72 cookies. She got some sugar on her face (which I thought was cute). Then she asked if she could come next December to do more decorating of cut-outs. Of course! I'd love to have her come again.

After lunch, we prepared a little carton of cookies for my upstairs neighbor. I had told Rosy that my neighbor's wife had died last September. She told me she would tell him she was sorry. My neighbor was pleased to meet Rosy and to get the cookies.

We packed the rest of the cookies in a large container for Rosy to take to her family. I'm pretty sure they'll be a big hit.

T.G.I.F.

It's been a very long week, seemingly. Last evening was my first night at home! It felt so good to catch up on my mail, balance my check book, do some laundry, and watch a little TV.

Last Saturday I got a new box spring and mattress - my previous set was still under warranty and had begun to have deep sags. The new set I chose is firm - very firm - perhaps too much so. It's not a pillow top (I guess I don't care for them anymore) - and it's about 4 inches or more shorter than the pillow top. Anyway, I have had to adjust to it. Last night I slept like a rock. I didn't get up once - and I'm not sure I even turned over. Now, that's amazing! I have 60 nights to sleep on it to decide whether or not I will keep it.

It's still cold here - we haven't been above freezing for the past 48 hours. We had snow off and on yesterday. I'm not complaining, really. When seeing what the folks in western Minnesota and North Dakota (Fargo; Grand Forks/Moorhead) are dealing with, I must keep my mouth shut. I actually saw the sun on my drive to work this morning. :-)

Tomorrow morning I am bring Rosy to my home to bake and decorate cookies. I'm sure we will have fun together. She is such a sweet girl.

That's it. It's Friday, and I'm happy.

What to Do?

Today I woke up thinking I'd like to do something special after church. One thing that came to mind was to drive with a friend over to the Mississippi River to see the eagles. The report last week was there were hundreds of them in the area -- some migrating, some nesting. Unfortunately, none of my friends was able to do this on short notice. So, on to plan B.

Friday I had a conversation with one of the artists at work who is designing a book cover with a Jewish girl as her subject. I told her about a Jewish book and gift store in St. Louis Park that I had gone to some years ago, thinking she might be able to find some inspiration there. Telling her about it pushed me to check it out on the Internet: Brochin's Book and Gift. Since this is not very far from my church building, I headed there. It is quite interesting. They have beautiful things. The first thing that caught my eye was the braided candles. I had bought these before. They're just like the ones used in the film The Fiddler on the Roof, in the wedding scene. Next time you watch this film, look closely at the candles. They have three or four wicks. The proprietor told me they are used primarily at the conclusion of their services. I bought one. It's blue and white with four wicks.

I also bought a beautiful book, Pearl's Passover, by Jane Breskin Zalben and a wonderful CD, Itzhak Perlman in the Fiddler's House - not the concert hall music usually associated with America's greatest violinist, but contemporary klezmer music - the kind we hear at Jewish weddings and parties. It's really fun!

Next I went to Byerly's and wandered around, picking up some delicious looking fruit and a treat at the bakery (shame on me). The next stop was a shoe store where I finally found some Spring shoes in which my orthotics fit. Yay! No more black shoes EVERY SINGLE DAY! I'm sure most of you agree: wearing the same two pairs of shoes day after day, month after month, is boring.

Down the sidewalk from the shoe store is Half Price Books. I've never been in one of these so decided to enter (Peder mentions this store often.). It was a bit overwhelming, so I narrowed my sights to three sections: collectibles; cookbooks (bought one); and DVDs. I looked for The Bucket List, but they didn't have one.

Now, my last frontier for the day: Trader Joe's. Many of my friends talk about "this and that" purchased there, and tell me I should check it out. It's not a big store, but it was full of shoppers. I couldn't help but think, "Heidi would LOVE this store! If they don't have one in Seattle, I'll have to take her to this one next time she comes home." I would say at least half of their things were organic - maybe more. I bought four boxes of soup: Sweet Potato Bisque, Organic Creamy Tomato Soup, and two boxes of Butternut Squash Soup. I also bought two bunches of fresh daffodils and a bar or organic shea butter soap. I've been home 2.5 hours and the daffodils are opening! Ah! They are so pretty.

That was my outing today. I had a great time!

The Bucket List

On the long flight to Ukraine last May, the airlines on which we were flying showed several movies. I got interested in one that was already in progress, The Bucket List. The Bucket List is a 2007 comedy-drama film written by Justin Zackham, directed by Rob Reiner, and starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. The story follows two terminally ill men (Nicholson and Freeman) on a road trip with a wish list of things to do before they "kick the bucket (this is from Wikipedia).

Last night I watched it again (Netflix) and really enjoyed it. Why? It is thought provoking, entertaining, funny in places, sad in others. It may not be for everyone, but I plan to purchase a copy to have in my library.

Should I Drag Out My Spring Clothes?

This weekend we have had the best weather in a very long time. Why, five days ago my family and I couldn't get together due to a blizzard, and just three days ago, we were 4 degrees below zero! Right now it is 54 degrees and sunny! I have been going in and out of my home without a jacket, mittens, or earmuffs. I feel so free. Wheeeee!

I'm in the process of swapping out my winter wall photos for spring/summer ones. My ruby red glassware is safely tucked away for awhile and my milk glass and cranberry glass is now catching my eye. The dark velvet pillows are put away and in their place are my pastel ones. Light-color table cloths now cover my tables. I love all of it, but it never ceases to amaze me how much I want one over the other.

Our snow banks are nearly a thing of the past. Yes! Praise the Lord! Hallelujah! I had my car washed and waxed on my way home from church this morning. It purred like a kitten all the way home ~ and it looks brand new!

Thanksgiving Get-together in March

"I had such a nice nap."

Reading

Tidying up

Having lots of fun jumping on bubble wrap.

Riding her pony

Coloring

Yesterday Peder and Sarah hosted a Thanksgiving Day dinner at their home since their four parents were either out of state or out of the country for the traditional Thanksgiving Day last November. It was really a fun time, complete with a turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and apple pie dinner. When I arrived, there was a Viking's football game being shown on the TV (actually recorded last Thanksgiving Day). Sarah got so "into it" that when her brother offered to run to the grocery store for something, she said, "Aren't the stores closed today?"

Aurelia was the main event of the day. She was so cute. I'm amazed at the sign language she has learned along with words - words and signs such as: dog (pats the side of her leg), bird (puts her fingers to her nose like a beak), please (rubs her tummy), more (taps her little fingers from both hands together), and others. Why didn't we teach our kids sign language? Why don't I know sign language? These new parents are doing a great job with our grandchildren! I'm so proud of them.

Weekends

I like my job very much. And I enjoy tutoring Rosy at One-by-One on Mondays and rehearsing with my church choir on Wednesdays, but I'm sure looking forward to sleeping late tomorrow morning. Oh, I'll probably wake up at 7:30 or 7:45. But knowing that I have no commitments or appointments, I'll be able to be a bit lazy.

I love days wherein I have no obligations. I'll probably clean Peppi's cage, and I may sew for a little while. But I'll have the luxury of watching a couple of cooking shows, looking through some magazines, or perhaps doing a little cooking or playing the piano. The weather doesn't sound promising, so I'm not counting on going for a walk. We'll see. It will just be nice to take it a little easy.

Oh, I almost forgot - - I have to move my clocks ahead an hour before I go to bed tomorrow night. That's right. Daylight Saving Time starts Sunday at 2 am.

Rosy's New Look

Rosy is now sporting glasses. Isn't she cute?

Recipe to whiten old linens

In cleaning out the linen closet yesterday, we came upon a pair of embroidered pillow cases that Heidi's grandmother had made for her years ago. The design is Holly Hobbie. The pillow cases had yellowed with age. So tonight I threw them in the washing machine, but was disappointed to see they hadn't whitened any. Then I remembered a recipe Aunt Liz gave me years ago. Here it is:

1 cup dishwasher powder
1/4 cup liquid bleach (I used Clorax)
1 gallon of very hot water

Stir together and add linens. Soak for 30 minutes. Rinse in clear water.

I made the recipe, tossed in the pillowcases, and a half hour later, wallah! They are very white, and the embroidery colors look bright and beautiful. You may want to tuck this recipe away.

Call it Gifts, Call it Talents, Call it Whatever . . .

Janet reorganized this Lazy Susan for me.

This food pantry was a disaster waiting to happen. Plus, I couldn't find things.

Former messy linen closet is now the organized food pantry.

This apron used to be my favorite. I made it in 1982. See how threadbare it is? I decided it was time for a new one. It took the persuasion of my relatives for me to toss the old one into the garbage yesterday. (Notice the contents of the linen closet on my sofa and part of my food pantry on the table behind the sofa.)

New "everyday" apron - fresh from my sewing machine.

Former food pantry; my new linen closet.

It seems everyone one in my family has at least one special gift. One remembers everything he reads, another is comfortable on stage and off. One has the gift of focus - she remains so focused, so reliable. One is a marvelous teacher, another has the gift of creativity. One can take a broken machine and turn it into one as good as new. My sister is thoughtful; my brother has servant-like behavior. An aunt has the gift of hospitality, the other aunt - the gift of gentleness and humbleness. My grandkids have the gift of sunshine. Yes, they bring sunshine to my life.

My cousin Pat has the gift, talent and whatever you want to call it, of organization. She can come to my home (she's ALWAYS welcome), take one look at the inside of one of my closets, and without scolding, start to remove everything and organize it into catagories. Last October she completely redid the closet in my cottage. Yesterday she tackled my food panty and linen closet. Both were a mess! I discovered I had many more cans of this and that, and a few other surprises. With her keen eye, all like items are now together, and life in that part of my home should run a lot smoother.

P.S. I found my ear muffs. They were in my car!

Interesting viewer

The side panel of my blog indicates the past 10 or so locations from which someone has logged on. Tonight there were a couple of hits from a location I had never heard about: Olecko, Suwalki left "News from DD4's Cottage: April 2008" via bp2.blogger.com. I decided to Google "Olecko, Suwalki." There was a spot to click marked "translate," which I did. It was from Poland.

Yes, we have *snow * !

For the past few days the weather forecast has been for 5 - 8 inches of new snow today. It was supposed to start around 9 am. By 10:45 we were still waiting for it. But at 11 am, it started. For about 15 minutes it was light, but then the heavens broke open and oh boy, did it snow, and snow and snow. About half of the people in our office went home early - around 2 pm. Since I live so close, I don't have the excuse to get out early. So, I stuck around. It tapered down to nothing by 4:30. I decided then to keep my dinner plans with a friend of mine.

After a lovely dinner with Dr. Joanie, we walked to our cars, only to discover it was snowing and blowing. I cautiously drove home, staying in the paths made by the cars before me. What a shock it was to get to my garage to discover no plows have been here all day. I opened the garage door with my remote and gunned the engine, heading straight for the narrow opening. Part way up the apron, my car hung up on the more than 10 inches of new snow. What to do? I got out of the car, trudged through the snow to the shovel I keep in my garage and began shoveling, and shoveling. Peder was right - it's heart attack snow - very heavy, and still coming down. When I thought I had cleared enough of the white stuff, I trudged back to my car, put it in gear, and gunned it straight into the garage. Thank You, Lord, for helping me manage the narrow door without hitting anything. I walked back to the street to make my way to my door. The snow had drifted over 15 inches on the sidewalk. Where on earth is our snow removal service?

I just read the snow removal guidelines for my association: sidewalks are cleared within 12 daylight hours once the snow has stopped. This is ridiculous! How do they expect residents to navigate?

I've been in the house an hour and my cheeks are still cold. Winter! I'm so ready for Spring!

Blue Star Mother

After saying good-bye to him today, I rehung my Blue Star Mother flag in my window and another one on the outside of my office cubicle. My son is being deployed. If you think about it, please say a prayer for him and his family. Please pray for his safety and speedy return.

One of My Favorite Artists

I have a darling book that I bought some years ago. It is illustrated by one of my favorite artists, Bessie Pease Gutmann. After looking at this book during my lunch hour today, I decided to google her to see what is available from her. Here is what I found. Aren't her paintings adorable?!

Happy Birthday, George and Abraham!

Display in my office today. I made the porcelain busts in 1973.

Aurelia's Date with Grandma, Volume 2

Taking time to smell the roses

Isn't she precious?

Studying hard

Aurelia at the tea

Gemma and Aunt Liz

This last Friday night, Aurelia came over to spend the night and all day Saturday with me. This time when she came in the door, she walked right to Peppi's cage. She is so adorable - - she "signs" the motion for "bird," but as Sarah says, she does it in reverse. I think it's marvelous that along with the spoken language, Aurelia is learning sign language. Brilliant idea! Why didn't we think of that?!

Aurelia, just as she did last time, was so well behaved. She only got a sad look on her face when it was time to go to bed. She had her bear in her arm and walked to my front door. After cuddling with her a little longer, while watching The Fiddler on the Roof which was playing on TV, she fell sound asleep in my lap. I put her to bed, and she slept 12 hours! I could hardly believe it. Even the phone ringing in our room didn't wake her.

Our plans for Saturday included driving to Rochester for an afternoon tea given by the Sweet Adeline's, of which my sister is a member. My arrangements were to rendezvous with my Aunt Liz and Pat, and our friend, Gemma. Here's the hitch: we had to transfer Aurelia's car seat from my car (Sarah installed it, but gave me a thorough lesson on Friday night) to Aunt Liz's van. Well, it's not as easy as young people make it sound, let me tell you. Both Pat and I struggled and struggled to get it secured to the back seat of the van, but without success. Eventually I walked into the McDonald's (our permanent meeting place), then into the large play room that was FILLED with about 20 parents and 40 or more kids. I proceeded to a table and told a mom my predicament and asked if she could help me. She told me her husband would come out in a minute and help us. Bless his heart. In less than 60 seconds he had that seat so secure that I don't think a hurricane could have moved it (well, it was definitely secure)! And we were on our way.

Aurelia loved the concert. She sat perfectly still, and even applauded for the group. She was an angel the whole weekend long.

Happy 3rd Birthday, Annika!

To: Annika

These happy birthday wishes

Come to let you see

That you are all the lovely things

A granddaughter could be...

Here's wishing you a day

When all your dreams come true

So happy, happy birthday

To a very special you!

Always be a very special Granddaughter

Who's fun and lovely too.

And that's why all your dreams

Are waiting just for you.

So may the happy birthday spirit

Inspire you with its touch

And bring you all the happiness

That you deserve so much!

Dear sweet Annika, I sure wish I could be with you to celebrate your special day. I will be thinking about you. Have fun! I love you very much! Grandma D

Happy Valentine's Day

To all of my family and friends, and especially to my grand children, Happy Valentine's Day!

I love all of you.

This is the perfect day to tell you.

Was It Fate? God's Will?

Tonight I had plans of coming straight home after a quick after work meeting. I thought I would make a nice dinner and get my house ready for my granddaughter's arrival tomorrow night. But then I remembered I needed to buy a Valentine at the store. And then on my way to the store, I realized I needed to buy some food for Aurelia's visit. Good, I'll take care of my shopping and then go home and make a good dinner.

Coming home, I was almost to my garage, when I decided to stop, back up to the mail boxes and pick up my mail. I put my flashers on, got out of my car, and got my mail, and turned back to my car when I heard a voice in the distance. "Can you help me?" I replied, "I don't see you. Where are you?" "Over here by the trash cans (lined up for garbage pick-up tomorrow morning)." I walked over and there on the ground lay my upstairs neighbor - an 85 year old man, recently widowed. I asked him how long he had been lying there and he told me about ten minutes. I threw down my mail and tried with all my strength to help him get up, but he was too heavy, and my lower back was really hurting. I went to his other side again and lifted and lifted, while he tried to grab onto a recycling bin for support, but his weak knees made it impossible. Next I suggested he crawl on his knees to the nearby tree - only 20 inches or so away, and then we could try again, hoping his leaning on the tree would help him to stand while I lifted. No luck.

At last I told him I needed to get someone to help. "Can you lie here a minute longer?" "Yes, I think I can." I spotted a boyfriend's car in one of my neighbor's drive, so I hurried to her door, rang the bell, and waited for someone to come. No answer. I rang the bell again. This time I heard rumblings. Sue opened the door. I told her why I needed help. She yelled up to her boyfriend. These dear neighbors came running outside, stocking footed, in 26 degree weather. They each took an underarm and gently lifted him up and walked him to our building and up his flight of stairs to his unit.

I hate to think of what may have happened to Jim had I not stopped for the mail tonight. Most of my neighbors were all "buttoned in" for the night. It was dark and cold outside. I don't know if it was fate, or if God was putting me in the right place at the right time, but I'm very relieved that things worked out for my upstairs neighbor.

. . . and I can't get it out of my head.

Do you ever hear a song and can't get it out of your head? I have just come from the play, Man of La Mancha. It is a musical chronicling the story of Don Quixote. The whole story takes place in the dungeon in Seville, Spain. Before today, I didn't know what the story was about. But I was well aware of the theme song that runs throughout, The Impossible Dream. There are many wonderful songs, but this one is unforgettable.

"The Impossible Dream"

To dream the impossible dream To fight the unbeatable foe To bear with unbearable sorrow To run where the brave dare not go To right the unrightable wrong To love pure and chaste from afar To try when your arms are too weary To reach the unreachable star This is my quest To follow that star No matter how hopeless No matter how far To fight for the right Without question or pause To be willing to march into Hell For a heavenly cause And I know if I'll only be true To this glorious quest That my heart will lie peaceful and calm When I'm laid to my rest And the world will be better for this That one man, scorned and covered with scars Still strove with his last ounce of courage To reach the unreachable star

Making Progress

Thanks to the orthotics I've been faithfully wearing, my feet are much improved. This morning, for the first time since October 8, I walked 8 minutes on the treadmill at the club! I'm sure I could have gone longer, but I had to get to work. There are some moments in the evening when I know I have been on my feet a little too much, but for the most part (as long as I keep wearing my shoes ALL THE TIME EXCEPT FOR IN THE SHOWER AND IN BED), I feel as they are back to normal. Yahoo!

Happy 8th Birthday, Rosy!

Today is Rosy's 8th birthday. She is the little girl I have been tutoring since the fall off 2007. Her family had her party last night, so I got to spend some time with her today. When I called her yesterday to make plans, she asked me if I liked chicken wings. "Yes, I guess so." Then she said we could eat them at Hooter's. Wow! Where did she come up with that? I've never been inside a "Hooter's" and most definitely didn't want to go there with an eight year old child.

So this morning I put on my thinking cap and came up with making reservations at the Rainforest Cafe in the Mall of America. When I picked her up, I told her I thought it might be better to go to a different restaurant and thought she would like this one. What a good decision that turned out to be! She loved the stream with the alligator that opened wide his jaw and scared some of the little kids. She marveled at the beautiful aquariums and chose one of the fish to be her favorite. The kids' menu gave her lots to do while we waited for our lunches. Then, when the thunder rumbled and the lightning flashed, she was startled, and thought it was fun. The big gorilla in another part of the dining room growled and she thought it was amazing, too. She ordered popcorn shrimp and Safari fries and the waiters brought a sundae to her and sang Happy Birthday, which embarrassed her, so she said. Rosy told me over and over how much she liked this restaurant.

After lunch she chose a darling baby chimpanzee in the gift shop that became her birthday gift from me. She named her Daniella and held her like she was a real baby - even through the movie she had chosen, Mall Cop, which by the way, is a good movie. Get this, during this movie, one big scene takes place in a Rainforest Cafe! Rosy leaned over and whispered, "Donna, that's where we ate lunch!"

I sure enjoy spending this special time with Rosy. She's a wonderful little girl.

"New in Town" - the Movie

Apparently a movie that opened nationwide this week : New in Town, opened in New Ulm, Minnesota, tonight. This is the town in which the movie supposedly takes place. Oddly enough, it wasn't even filmed in Minnesota. In honor of the film, the locals in New Ulm dressed as movie stars for the premiere and staged a Minnesota "regular" outside the theater - - a pot luck supper, complete with hot dishes in crock pots. I just watched the news story on my favorite local news channel, Kare 11. It was hilarious.

25 Things About Me

1. I am the very proud grandma of four adorable grandchildren: Josiah, Annika, Aurelia, and Marshall.
2. I am the proud mother of Hans, Peder, and Heidi.
3. I love the spouses my kids have married: Rachel, Sarah, and Chad.
4. I have a very close relationship with my brother and sister: Jerry and Janet.
5. I have two aunts and many cousins whom I adore.
   
6. I have always loved music; if I could do things over, I would have stayed in college and become a high school choral director.
7. I am blessed with my dream job - celebrated my eighth anniversary a week ago.
8. I have great friends.
9. My favorite color is red.
10. I believe you can never have too many dishes.
11. I'm definitely a morning person.
12. I made my goal weight at Weight Watchers last night!
    
13. I would rather watch a movie than read a book.
14. I have a rather large collection of movies.
15. My hobbies are knitting, counted cross stitch, and playing the piano.
16. When I was in 6th grade, I sang in a talent show which was televised on our local TV station. Part way through, I forgot the words and sort of froze.
    
17. I went to the Ed Sullivan show when I was in 5th grade. Guests were Tony Curtis and Burt Lancaster.
18. I'm a Christian.
19. I have a pet canary named Peppi.
20. I've been to 16 countries.
21. I drive a red New Beetle and like it as much today as when I bought it, 10 1/2 years ago.
22. I would rather bake than cook.
23. My favorite seasons are Spring and Autumn. I wish each would last lots longer than they do here in Minnesota.
24. I try to have a good time and keep a positive attitude.
    
25. My favorite restaurant is The Original Pancake House; favorite entree: the apple pancake.

Nice

It never fails to impress me how nice people are when I am driving the automated carts in department or grocery stores. My foot is really improving with the custom-made orthotics I got nearly a couple of weeks ago, but since it is winter here in this frozen tundra and the streets and parking lots are really icy and sloppy in places, I faithfully wear my boots, in which my orthotics won't fit. Thus, when I have to shop, if the store has an automated cart, I use it (actually, they are really fun to drive, and they go "beep, beep" when in reverse!). Just today I did some grocery shopping during my lunch period. Everyone - customers and clerks - are so nice. "Can I get that for you?" "Do you need any help?" Plus, everyone smiles. It's amazing. It sure speaks well of the way the handicapped are treated around here - and hopefully, everywhere!

Time Flies . . .

Today marks my eighth anniversary at my job. Time has really flown. I can hardly believe it.

I am blessed to have this job. I work with wonderful people and am very proud of what we do here. Not everyone can say that.

Just thinking back to how it all started . . . once a week I get this free community newspaper delivered to my home - whether I want it or not. Most weeks it immediately goes into my recycling bin, but a little over eight years ago, I was unhappy in my work situation. This "free" paper was delivered on Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving. Something told me I should look through the pages. On the Want Ads page, my eye stopped on an ad for a position at an address near my home. The next day, while driving home from Peder's Thanksgiving Day dinner, I decided to drive by the office to check it out. From my vantage point, it looked like a nice building. I drove through the parking lot to get another look. While my car was stopped, I looked ahead of me and there in my headlights were three deer: one sitting under a tree, one chewing on the shrubs, the third one staring into my lights. "It's a sign!" I thought.

I decided to wait until the next week's paper came to see if the job was still being offered. It was; I applied; and the rest is history. I don't consider it luck. I think it was Providential.

Hooray for the Red, White and Blue!

It's a proud day for the United States of America - the coming together of millions of people here, to witness the inauguration of the new President of our country. It was a peaceful, emotional day, full of references to one of my favorite presidents, Abraham Lincoln. In fact, the china used at the inaugural luncheon for dignitaries today was supposedly a replica of the china chosen by Mary Todd Lincoln. (I would have loved to have eaten from it.)

I didn't get to watch as much of the telecast as I would have liked (I refused to take a personal day off), but took an extended lunch period and watched both the Vice President and the President take their oaths of office, plus got to hear the beautiful rendition of "Tis a Gift to Be Simple, 'Tis a Gift to be Free."

Over the past few days, I have loved hearing the accounts of some of our Black brothers and sisters and what this moment means to them and would have meant to their forefathers. For many, it was an impossible dream. It speaks well of our nation to go beyond color and elect a man with vigor and vitality to lead us through the next four years. He has a HUGE job ahead of him, and no doubt he will face criticism (isn't that only natural?). I didn't vote for him, but I am happy with the unity that has come about since he won the election. I love how he says, "The United States of America," instead of just "America." The emphasis on "united" hasn't been used much lately. Let's include him and his family in our prayers.

Aurelia's Date with Grandma

Little mama.

"Night, night," said little Aurelia.

Saturday evening I got to watch Aurelia while Peder and Sarah went to his company holiday party. I hadn't seen her since Christmas Day, so that in itself was a treat.

She is so good! She loves looking around at all of my plates, etc. on the walls. She was ready to get into my booster chair for dinner and sat patiently while I heated it. I gave her the small fork and spoon that all three of my kids used and she ate her peas, corn, macaronni and cheese and chicken tenders. Grandma spoon-fed her the chocolate pudding. With each bite, I would say, "mmm." And she would smile and respond, "mmm." She is such a quick learner.

We spent a little while in my cottage where she played with a doll and doll cradle. She is such a little mommy with the doll. She reached for something under a small table of mine, baby on her hip, and even though she couldn't reach the object she had noticed, she never once dropped the doll but treated her as though she were a live baby. It was fascinating to watch. After she went to bed, I discovered what it was she had been trying to reach -- the giraffe puppet who was stuffed into a basket. I wish I would have realized this while she was awake. We could have had fun playing with him. (Next time.)

If you don't have a grandchild, or grandchildren, you should get some. I would highly recommend it!