My Title of Liberty

OCTOBER 2009

Another view of my room.

On October 1, 2009, Thursday, Earthquakes reported in California, I got up at 7:30 am. After breakfast, I added Exodus 13 and Exodus 14. After lunch, I added Exodus 15, Exodus 16, Exodus 17, Exodus 18, Exodus 19, and Exodus 20. Ed came over just before 5 pm. I put in a movie to watch, "National Treasure 2", he phoned for a pizza, and I had supper with the other residents. We watched the movie together. He left at 7 pm, leaving me with 3 liters of diet Pepsi and a bag of potato chips. I added Exodus 21, Exodus 22, Exodus 23, Exodus 24, and Exodus 25. I watched "The Mummy" on TV.

One of three squirrels raiding a bird feeder at Elderplace

Burnside St., in Gresham, on the way home

On October 2, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:30 am. I checked my bank balance and wrote my checkss for tithing and rent. I gave Winda the rent check at breakfast. After breakfast, I made sure I had everything I wanted to take to Elderplace. Vicki picked me up. She was down to 5 passnegers today. When I got there I took my CBG monitor upstairs to have the data downloaded. I participated in Lisa's Discussion Group in the McKenzie Room. I weigh 321.3 lbs and my blood pressure was 122/72. Then I sang karaoke in the the Sandy Room, even though I was not on any of the public schedules. I had the fish for lunch (and three bread puddings). At 12:30 pm, Sana came and got me for the Bi-annual Evaluation. She checked my feet. The doctor saw me too. She is going to try to have therapy arrange weekly swimming therapy plus a program for home as well. I am going to cut down a little more on what I eat as well. Some of the aides told me of a photo opportunity at the east end of the building, three squirrels raiding a bird feeder. A MetroWest driver picked me up and got me home about 2:30 pm. I told Winda that I didn't want bacon or sausages for breakfast, just eggs, and that except for birthday cake or strawberry shortcake I didn't want any cake for dessert. I copied today's photos to my computer. I wrote a check to Disability Services and got that and my Tithing check ready to mail. I added Exodus 26 and Exodus 27. Ed showed up about 4:30 pm. I put in the DVD for "Serenity" for us to watch. He left about 6:50 pm, leaving me another three liters of diet Pepsi. I added Exodus 28.

Mormon Tabernacle Choir at Conference

On October 3, 2009, Saturday, General Conference, I got up at 7:30 am. I went to the lds.org site and installed a viewer for Firefox so I could watch Conference whether or not I can locate it on cable. Tess called us to breakfast at 8:25 am. At breakfast, the Conference came on TV on channel 23 as I had hoped. We watched several talks together before I returned to my room to watch by myself. Topics: The Holy Ghost and how to recognize God's voice, The evil of pornography, The Love of God. I added Exodus 29. I learned about radio.lds.org. I added Exodus 30. At lunch, the TV was still on the same channel and Margaret talked about some of the things she had seen and heard of the Church on TV. I downloaded Firefox 3.5 and installed it. Afternoon conference topics: The relationship of God's love and God's laws, The Reality of the Resurrection, the Restoration, Temperance (being tempered), and Divine Forgiveness. I added Exodus 31, Exodus 32, and Exodus 33. After supper, I watched an NCIS Episode called "Reunion" online. I added Exodus 34, Exodus 35, and Exodus 36. I watched an NCIS Episode called "Truth or Consequences" online. I ordered an Interlinear Hebrew-Greek Bible through Amazon.com.

President Monson presiding and conducting at Conference

On October 4, 2009, Sunday, General Conference, I got up at 6:30 am. Before breakfast, I added Exodus 37 and Exodus 38. We were called for breakfast later than usual. The News said it was snowing in Eastern Oregon, only 20^o in Burns, Oregon. It is 44^o here in Gresham, to get to only 62^o this afternoon. I went back to my room at 9 am when the Conference started to watch it on my own TV. Topics: God's Plan of Happiness, Praying for Love, Virtues (-ity's), Spiritual Safety Equipment, and Personal Revelation. President Monson spoke about service, losing ourselves for the sake of others. Before lunch, I added Exodus 39 and Exodus 40. At the lunch table, I watched Church related videos on the big TV with Margaret. I returned to my room to continue watching Conference. Topics were: The Testimony of the Book of Mormon and of Joseph Smith sealed with blood, Our Stewardships toward others, The Great Commission, Biopsy for the Change of Heart, An Easiness to Believe, The Gospel in Africa, Moral Discipline, and Surviving in these evil times. I added Leviticus 1, Leviticus 2, Leviticus 3, Leviticus 4, and Leviticus 5. After supper, I watched a movie, "Stepmother" on TV. I added Leviticus 6.

Boots, a new (temporary) friend

On October 5, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:30 am. It is 40^o here in Gresham, to get to up 64^o this afternoon. We were called to breakfast late. Tess showed us a small kitten (I think she is taking it home tonight). After breakfast, I held the kitten (I was told it is a male), then tried feeding him through the finger of a glove. The milk dripped onto my shirt, so I gave the milk to him in a shallow dish and he lapped it fairly well. I took him to my room and took photos. Then Margaret got to have him for a while and I photographed him with her, too. Ed showed up before 11 am. I shared with him the NCIS episode, "Reunion". He left again about 12:15 pm. He has to work this afternoon. I added Leviticus 8, Leviticus 8, and Leviticus 9. I napped until supper. After supper. I added Leviticus 10, Leviticus 11, Leviticus 12, and Leviticus 13.

On October 6, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:30 am. It is 39^o here in Gresham, to get to up 67^o this afternoon. I napped between breakfast and lunch. I watched TV in the afternoon and evening.

HOLINESS TO THE LORD, theme of Leviticus

On October 7, 2009, Wednesday, I got up at 7:30 am. It is 46^o here in Gresham, to get to up 65^o this afternoon. After breakfast, we discussed how we could go to the Oregon Zoo on Saturday using free tickets that the County Case worker provided for us. Willy did not want to go, and Margaret would rather not. Winda got her daughter (certified) to agree to stay with Willy and Winda and Dan will drive the van with food and drinks. Patty and I will go as Martha's guests and Tess will go with Margaret. The Tri-Met Lift will pick us up between 9:30 and 10:00 am to take us to the Zoo and pick us up there between 2:30 and 3:00 pm to bring us home again. I am looking forward to Saturday with fingers crossed. Before lunch, I added Leviticus 14, Leviticus 15, and Leviticus 16. After lunch, I added Leviticus 17, Leviticus 18, Leviticus 19, Leviticus 20, Leviticus 21, Leviticus 22, and Leviticus 23. After supper, I added Leviticus 24, Leviticus 25, Leviticus 26, Leviticus 27, and Numbers 1. I watched "Return to Halloweentown High" on TV.

The Roadhouse, where Ed took me for supper

On October 8, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 7:30 am. It is 44^o here in Gresham, to get to up 66^o this afternoon. Yesterday, the forecast for Saturday was 72^o and "breezy", but today it is 62^o and a "chilly east wind". Doesn't look good for the Zoo. I got the address and phone number for the Hometown Buffet on SE 82^nd for Winda and went back to bed and tried to nap. About 9:10 am, Ed phoned to say that he was coming over. Napping wasn't working for me, so I got up. Before lunch, I added Numbers 2, Numbers 3, and Numbers 4 while Ed and I watched TV. After lunch, Ed and I watched "Spiderwick" and "WALL-E" on DVD. Then Ed took me out to The Roadhouse for supper. I had salmon, baked potato, and coleslaw with peanuts and sweet bread for appetizers. Then we went to Dairy Queen for dessert (I had a small strawberry sundae). When we got back, we watched "Iron Man" on DVD. Then Ed went home. I added Numbers 5, Numbers 6, and Numbers 7.

Green Katydid under the eaves

On October 9, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:30 am. It is 48^o here in Gresham, to get to up 63^o this afternoon. After breakfast, I went outside and took photos. There was a katydid under the eaves. Vicki is no longer driving for Elderplace. Instead, Ralph was driving today. He only had 5 passengers. We were later than usual arriving at Elderplace. I weighed 320.8 lbs. I went to the McKenzie Room and played with the Jack O'Lantern ball that Ed gave me, for exercise. I participated in Liza's Discussion Group. Mr. Potter had died (He and Mrs. Potter had been married for 68 years). I got my seasonal flu shot. I sang karaoke in the Sandy Room until lunch. Though I had asked for the baked salmon, they gave me the chicken and rice casserole. Ralph had 6 passengers to take home, and he had trouble finding the address for the new one. He got me home by 2:30 pm. I copied my photos to my computer. Before supper, I added Numbers 8, Numbers 9, and Numbers 10. After supper, I added Numbers 11, Numbers 12, Numbers 13, Numbers 14, Numbers 15, and Numbers 16.

Our group arriving at Hometown Buffet

On October 10, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:15 am. It is 47^o here in Gresham, to get to up 61^o this afternoon. I can hear the wind blowing outside my window. I trimmed my beard with my hair clippers, then shaved before breakfast. Breakfast was served at 8:20 am. Tess said we were to be picked up at 9:30 am for the buffet. I put the air cast on my right foot as it was hurting more than the left now. I got myself ready to go. The Tri-Met Lift bus arrived about 9:40 am. The driver loaded us and took I-84 and I-205 to Johnson Parkway and 82d Street, then south to Clackamas Square and the Hometown Buffet. We arrived while they were still serving breakfast. I had eggs, biscuits, and a strawberry sundae. Some of us were still eating when they set out the lunch menu. The Lift was to pick us up between 1:30 and 2:00 pm, but it was nearly 2:20 pm before they arrived. It was sunny, and windy at flag level, but pleasant on the ground. They got us home by 3:30 pm. The screen had blown out of my window while we were gone. I copied my photos to my computer. Supper was a sandwich and juice served in my room at 5:45 pm. After supper, I added Numbers 17, Numbers 18, Numbers 19, Numbers 20, and Numbers 21. I watched "As Time Goes By" and "My Family" on TV. I added Numbers 22 and Numbers 23.

The snow is coming back to Mt. Hood

On October 11, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:36 am. It is 43^o here in Gresham, to get to up 61^o this afternoon. After breakfast, I shaved, bathed, and dressed for Church. I added Numbers 24. Larry picked me up for Church. Sacrament talks were on The Abrahamic Covenant. Sunday School was on "We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet" and The Priesthood lesson was on "The Everlasting Covenant". I took some photos of the peak of Mt. Hood afterward. The snow is finally coming back. Larry got me home by 3 pm. I napped until supper time. After supper, I added Numbers 25, Numbers 26, and Numbers 27.

On October 12, 2009, Monday, Columbus' Day, I woke up at 1:55 am to the sound of my printer powering up. There had been a power outage of unknown duration (as my one plugged-in clock has backup power). It is 47^o outside (surprisingly warm since it was forecast to freeze overnight. I rebooted my computer (everything seems to be OK) and left my TV off.
I got up at 7:36 am. It was 46^o outside. After breakfast, I went back to bed until lunch. Before supper, I added Numbers 28, Numbers 29, Numbers 30, Numbers 31, Numbers 32, Numbers 33, Numbers 34, Numbers 35, and Numbers 36. After supper, I added Deuteronomy 1, Deuteronomy 2, Deuteronomy 3, Deuteronomy 4, Deuteronomy 5, Deuteronomy 6, and Deuteronomy 7. I updated my web pages to my Dell AXIM Pocket PC.

Watching "Becker" after lunch

On October 13, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:36 am. It was 44^o outside, and only supposed to get to 56^o today. After breakfast, I went back to bed until lunch. About 11 am, someone from Elderplace Therapy called to talk to me, but Winda thought I was sleeping. After lunch, Margaret, Martha, and I sat at the dining table watching "Cheers" and "Becker" on TV until about 3:30 pm. The Hebrew/Greek Bible I ordered didn't come in the mail again today. I took a photo of the damage the wind has done on the front porch and of the dining area. I went back to my room and copied my photos to the computer. Before supper, I added Deuteronomy 8, and Deuteronomy 9. After supper, I added Deuteronomy 10, Deuteronomy 11, Deuteronomy 12, Deuteronomy 13, Deuteronomy 14, and Deuteronomy 15. Tonight I began changing "the LORD" and "GOD" to "JEHOVAH".

On October 14, 2009, Wednesday, I got up at 7:40 am. It was 56^o outside, and only supposed to get to 60^o today, with rain. After breakfast, I went back to bed and slept about an hour and a half before getting up again. I added Deuteronomy 16, Deuteronomy 17, Deuteronomy 18, Deuteronomy 19, and Deuteronomy 20. After lunch, I added Deuteronomy 21, Deuteronomy 22, Deuteronomy 23, Deuteronomy 24, and Deuteronomy 25. I added $15 to my cell phone account. I played Solitaire until supper time. After supper, I added Deuteronomy 26, Deuteronomy 27, Deuteronomy 28, Deuteronomy 29, Deuteronomy 30, Deuteronomy 31, Deuteronomy 32, Deuteronomy 33, and Deuteronomy 34.

On October 15, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 7:40 am. It was 54^o outside, and only supposed to get to 63^o today, with a chance of showers. After breakfast, I added Joshua 1 and Joshua 2. I napped for two hours, then before lunch, I added Joshua 3 and Joshua 4. Ed came over after lunch and we watched Fox News and I added Joshua 5 and Joshua 6. The News told us that a 6 year old Colorado boy named Falcon Heene was missing, and for a while thought to be either in a special weather balloon or fallen from it. It was finally discovered that he had hidden himself in a box in the attic of his parents' garage. Ed left before 4 pm. I added Joshua 7 and Joshua 8. After supper, I added Joshua 9, Joshua 10, Joshua 11, Joshua 12, Joshua 13, Joshua 14, and Joshua 15.

Ed and I watching FOX News

On October 16, 2009, Friday, Amy's 13^th Birthday, I got up at 6:00 am. It was 59^o outside, and only supposed to get to 65^o today, with a chance of showers. I wished my neice Amy a Happy Birthday on Facebook. I added Joshua 16 and Joshua 17. I shaved and added Joshua 18 before breakfast. Ralph picked me up for Elderplace. He had only 5 passengers. I took my CBG monitor upstairs, then bought two cans of diet Coke, then went to the McKenzie Room. Lisa found me and interviewed me for the 6 month evaluation. I stayed and worked on a crossword puzzle until people arrived for the Discussion Group. After that, I went to the Sandy Room and sang karaoke. I had a burger for lunch. Ralph got me home by 2:10 pm. I copied my photos from my camera to the computer. Ed showed up and we watched TV together. About 3:30 pm, I realized my phone was missing. I had last seen it when I answered a phone call from Tabitha at Elderplace while I was riding home on the bus. I used the house phone to call my phone and it didn't ring in the house, so I am assuming it is still on the bus. At supper time Tabitha phoned me to say they had found my phone, and Ed left to get something to eat. After supper, I went out on the porch to take photos. The temperature reached 71^o today. It was pleasant outside. Ed returned first and we visited on the porch while he ate. Ralph arrived with my phone (he was on his way home to Clackamas). Ed and I went back inside and watched NCIS on TV. Ed left at 7 pm. I added Joshua 19, Joshua 20, Joshua 21, Joshua 22, Joshua 23, and Joshua 24. I added Judges 1,

Erin at the Chinese Garden.

On October 17, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:48 am. It was 56^o outside, and only supposed to get to 61^o today, with a chance of showers. After breakfast, I went back to bed. I got up at 11 am when I heard thunder. I tried getting photos of it, but the sky was too bright and visibility was limited. Erin IM'd me and we started a video call. We shared photos. Hers were of her visits to the Chinese Garden, the Rose Garden, and Molina, Oregon. She said the current state of construction in front of her home was making it difficult for her to come and go in her motorized chair (They are removing more than half of the front yard to widen Kane Road). After I broke for lunch, we reconnected online and played Checkers and All-Star Bowling. Then at 1 pm, she went to have her lunch. I added Judges 2, Judges 3, Judges 4, Judges 5, and Judges 6.

Our Church building as seen from the rear parking lot

On October 18, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:00 am, though I originally had my alarm set for 6:00 am. I studied the Priesthood lesson: "He Was a Prophet of God": Contemporaries of Joseph Smith Testify of His Prophetic Mission. When I checked my email, I discovered that Larry, my usual driver, was recovering from an operation and that he had asked Dan, my home teacher, to take me to Church, but that he needed to go early. Then I checked my phone and found it was turned off. I turned it on. On my way to the breakfast table, I was notified that I had two voice mails - probably left while my phone was off. After breakfast, I phoned Dan and then had to wait for him to call back. He said he would pick me up about 10 am. I said I would be ready. I bathed, shaved, and dressed for Church. About 9:40 am, I went outside to take photos and to wait for my ride. I observed two separate Tri-Met Lift buses picking people up (for church?). Dan, his wife, and two daughters picked me up about 10 am. Dan put my chair in the back of his pickup and I got into the back seat with the girls. When we got there, Dan went to choir practice and I took photos in the foyer. I visited with Br. McCarthy, too. The Sacrament meeting talks were on Temple work and Visiting teaching. Sunday School was on Self-Reliance (and interdependence). I led the Priesthood lesson on "He (Joseph Smith) Was a Prophet of God". It went well. Afterward one of the brethren was ordained as a high priest. Since one of Dan's daughters had an interview with the Bishop, I went out to the parking lot and took photos of the scenery and the building. They got me home about 3:30 pm. I copied my photos to my computer. After supper, I added Judges 7, Judges 8, Judges 9, Judges 10, and Judges 11.

Portion of a page of new Interlinear Bible

On October 19, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:42 am. After breakfast, I went back to bed until 11:30 am. Before lunch, I added Judges 12 and Judges 13. After lunch, I added Judges 14, Judges 15, and Judges 16. I finally got my The Interlinear Bible: Hebrew, Greek, English in the mail. It is used, but in almost new condition. Before supper, I added Judges 17, Judges 18, Judges 19, Judges 20, and Judges 21, finishing the book of Judges. After supper, I added Ruth 1, Ruth 2, Ruth 3, Ruth 4, 1 Samuel 1, and 1 Samuel 2.

Construction up on Kane Rd at the End of 5th Street

On October 20, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:42 am. Between breakfast and lunch, I added 1 Samuel 3. 1 Samuel 4. 1 Samuel 5. 1 Samuel 6. 1 Samuel 7. 1 Samuel 8. 1 Samuel 9. 1 Samuel 10. After lunch, I napped for an hour before getting ready to go to my podiatrist appointment. I added 1 Samuel 11. I went outside to wait for my ride. I took pictures of the neighborhood, including signs of the road construction going on at 5th and Kane. An Elderplace driver picked me up for my appointment and we got there in plenty of time. Dr. Yoon checked my feet and trimmed my nails. He said my feet were looking good (of course, I haven't been using them). Another Elderplace driver, Marie, drove me home to the sound of martial music. At one point, when I was looking for Mt. St. Helens to the north, I saw what looked like a vertical white plume of cloud in that general area, but did not see the mountain. I got home about 4:15 pm. I copied my photos to the computer. Before supper, I added 1 Samuel 11. After supper, I added 1 Samuel 12, 1 Samuel 13, 1 Samuel 14, 1 Samuel 15, and 1 Samuel 16.

On October 21, 2009, Wednesday, I woke up at 4 am to the sound of rain outside my window. Forty-five minutes later, I was still awake so I got up. I added 1 Samuel 17, 1 Samuel 18, 1 Samuel 19, and 1 Samuel 20. After breakfast, I went back to bed until lunch time. Before supper, I added 1 Samuel 21, 1 Samuel 22, 1 Samuel 23, 1 Samuel 24, 1 Samuel 25, 1 Samuel 26, 1 Samuel 27, 1 Samuel 28, 1 Samuel 29, and 1 Samuel 30. After supper, I added 1 Samuel 31, 2 Samuel 1, 2 Samuel 2, 2 Samuel 3, 2 Samuel 4, 2 Samuel 5, and 2 Samuel 6.

On October 22, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 7:46 am. Before lunch, I added 2 Samuel 7, 2 Samuel 8, 2 Samuel 9, 2 Samuel 10, 2 Samuel 11, 2 Samuel 12, and 2 Samuel 13. Before supper, I added 2 Samuel 14, 2 Samuel 15, 2 Samuel 16, 2 Samuel 17, 2 Samuel 18, 2 Samuel 19, 2 Samuel 20, 2 Samuel 21, and 2 Samuel 22. After supper, I added 2 Samuel 23, 2 Samuel 24, and 1 Kings 1.

MAX Light Rail pulling out of Cleveland Ave. Station

On October 23, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:30 am and got ready for Elderplace. After breakfast, Ralph picked me up for Elderplace. Two of his six passengers cancelled (due to rain?). I wore my homemade wool poncho and my Indiana Jones hat. I weighed 313.1 lbs. Hooray! I did half of a crossword puzzle before Lisa's Discussion Group. It was just Lisa, Ernie, and me. I showed them my new Interlinear Bible. I sang karaoke in the Sandy Room until lunch. I had the chicken but should have chosen the salmon. I got into a discussion of Bible trivia. Ralph got me home by 2 pm. I copied my photos to my computer. I added 1 Kings 2 and 1 Kings 3. After supper, I added 1 Kings 4, 1 Kings 5, 1 Kings 6, and 1 Kings 7. I began adding "the words of God in red" to 1 Kings and the first 19 chapters of Genesis. I added 1 Kings 8.

On October 24, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:36 am. Before lunch, I added 1 Kings 9, 1 Kings 10, 1 Kings 11, 1 Kings 12, and 1 Kings 13 while listening to KKAD AM radio. Before supper, I added 1 Kings 14, 1 Kings 15, (adding a timeline at the bottom), 1 Kings 16, (adding a timeline at the bottom), 1 Kings 17, 1 Kings 18, 1 Kings 19, and 1 Kings 20 while listening to Fox News. After supper, I added 1 Kings 21, 1 Kings 22, 2 Kings 1, and 2 Kings 2. I watched "As Time Goes By" and "My Family".

On October 25, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:30 am. My wall clock had automatically reset itself to Standard Time according to the old rule and I had to set it back to Daylight Savings Time. After breakfast Dan called about Church. I told him I wouldn't make it today. He and Veraun may come over this afternoon to visit me. I went back to bed. I got up again at 9:30 and added 2 Kings 3, 2 Kings 4, 2 Kings 5, and 2 Kings 6 before lunch. After lunch, I added 2 Kings 7. I shaved, using lotion instead of shampoo for lubricant, and it didn't work as well. Better maybe for my skin, but not my razor, and I didn't get a clean shave out of it, either. I added 2 Kings 8, 2 Kings 9, and 2 Kings 10. My home teachers came over about 3:30 pm and gave me a lesson on "Finding Strength through Obedience" (a talk by Pres. Monson from the recent General Conference). They asked what they could do for me and I told them I needed to get shampoo. They said they would take care of it. Before supper, I added 2 Kings 11, 2 Kings 12, and 2 Kings 13. After supper, I added 2 Kings 14, 2 Kings 15, 2 Kings 16, and 2 Kings 17.

A Rainy and Windy Day at Home

On October 26, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:30 am. After breakfast, I added 2 Kings 18, 2 Kings 19, 2 Kings 20, 2 Kings 21, 2 Kings 22, and 2 Kings 23. After lunch, Joe from the Elderplce therapy department came out and showed me three exercises I can do to strengthen my arms: wheelchair pushups, and rowing forward and backward with a stretchy tube. I added 2 Kings 24 and 2 Kings 25. I added 1 Chronicles 1 and 1 Chronicles 2. About 3 pm, Veraun brought me two bottles of shampoo as promised. I took an hour nap before supper. After supper, I added 1 Chronicles 3, 1 Chronicles 4, 1 Chronicles 5, and 1 Chronicles 6.

On October 27, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:30 am. After breakfast, I added 1 Chronicles 7, 1 Chronicles 8, 1 Chronicles 9, 1 Chronicles 10, and 1 Chronicles 11. I napped before lunch. After lunch, I added 1 Chronicles 12, 1 Chronicles 13, 1 Chronicles 14, 1 Chronicles 15, 1 Chronicles 16, 1 Chronicles 17, and 1 Chronicles 18. After supper, I shaved my head and beard, then added 1 Chronicles 19, 1 Chronicles 20, 1 Chronicles 21, and 1 Chronicles 22. I wrapped up a present for Winda's birthday tomorrow and labeled it with a small balloon.

Approaching Fred Meyer from the West

Fred Meyer Home Electronics

On October 28, 2009, Wednesday, Winda's Birthday, I woke up at 2:30 and realized the TV signal was down (all channels). It came on again an hour later. I lay awake until 4:30 am and then got up. I added 1 Chronicles 23, 1 Chronicles 24, 1 Chronicles 25, 1 Chronicles 26, and 1 Chronicles 27. I bathed and dressed. I added 1 Chronicles 28 and 1 Chronicles 29. At breakfast, Winda opened her present from me, a VHS tape of the movie "Overboard". I added 2 Chronicles 1, 2 Chronicles 2, and 2 Chronicles 3. I napped until lunch. After lunch, Winda gave me my mail. I got a dividend check from Salem Electric. I had been thinking about trying to get to Fred Meyer and now I had an excuse. But now I had to go to the bank to cash the check and that would be harder. I put on my wool poncho and my Indiana Jones hat and headed out. The weather was cool (in the 40's) but dry. I went up Hale St to Powell, then down Powell to Burnside, past Fred Meyer to the Bank. There I changed the check for a roll of quarters and dollar coins. Then I headed back toward Fred Meyer. In the Home Electronics department I bought some AA batteries, an Anne Murray CD, and some economy black ink for my printer. In the grocery department I bought a dozen oatmeal raisin cookies, a diet A&W root beer, and a bag of Cracker Jacks. I headed home again, eating the Cracker Jacks and drinking part of the soda on the way. I took over 70 photos while I was out. I copied my photos to my computer and stitched several panorama photos. After supper, I added 2 Chronicles 4, 2 Chronicles 5, and 2 Chronicles 6.

On October 29, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 7:30 am. After dressing, I put my new ink cartridge in my printer. After breakfast, I did rowing exercises. Ed came over and we watched "Pirates of the Caribbean: at World's End" on DVD. After lunch, we watched "My Fair Lady" on DVD. He left at supper time. I began thinking about rearranging my room. I added 2 Chronicles 7, 2 Chronicles 8, 2 Chronicles 9, 2 Chronicles 10, 2 Chronicles 11, 2 Chronicles 12, 2 Chronicles 13, and 2 Chronicles 14. In the Old Testament pages, I changed the English word "hell" to SHEOL, and in the New Testament to HADES, GEHENNA, or TARTARUS, according to the original languages. I found this note online for the term "Tartarus":

In classic mythology,
below Heaven, Earth, and Pontus is Tartarus (Greek: deep place, abyss).
It is a deep, gloomy place, a pit, or an abyss used as a dungeon of torment and suffering that resides beneath the underworld.
In the Gorgias, Plato (c. 400 BC) wrote that souls were judged after death and those who received punishment were sent to Tartarus. As a place of punishment, it can be considered a hell.
The classic Hades, on the other hand, is more similar to Old Testament Sheol.

Some of the Elderplace Employees gathering in costume

On October 30, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:20 am. I dressed and shaved for Elderplace. I updated my web pages to my Pocket PC. After breakfast, which was running late (though I was served mine on time), I went outside to wait for my ride. We have a new driver, Torian, who had two cancellations and one add-on passenger. I transferred to a seat to make room. We arrived at Elderplace about 9:30 am (later than usual). I weighed myself at 316.5 lbs. and then went to the recycling room and bought three cans of diet Coke. I went to the McKenzie Room and worked a crossword puzzle until the discussion group arrived. After the discussion group, I was going to go to the Sandy Room, but got waylaid by my CNA who took my vitals (BP: 158/90). Then someone came to take me upstairs to the clinic for an unannounced appointment. Sana, my nurse, took my blood pressure in both ankles and wrists (about 110-130 systolic). She seemed to agree with my prediction that I don't have restrictions to my circulation. I sang karaoke for half an hour until lunch was served. I took photos outside for nearly an hour before we loaded up for the return trip. Torian got me home by 2 pm, which is early. I copied my photos to the computer and updated my journal. Ed came over at 3 pm. We watched "Singin' in the Rain" on DVD. After supper, we watched "Sister Act 2" on DVD. Ed went home about 7 pm. I added 2 Chronicles 15, 2 Chronicles 16, 2 Chronicles 17, and 2 Chronicles 18.

State of the road construction a block from my home

On October 31, 2009, Saturday, Halloween, I got up at 7:40 am. At breakfast, Tess mistook a jar of homemade BBQ sauce for jam and gave us jackfruit, which to me tasted a bit like bubble gum. I added 2 Chronicles 19, 2 Chronicles 20, and had half of 2 Chronicles 21 added when Ed came over. We watched "White Christmas" on DVD. After lunch, we went out to Blockbuster Video on Stark and 257th to find the first two "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies but failed. I bought Ed and I ice cream cones. We went to another Blockbuster in North Portland and found the first one. A man there said to check Target (in the same parking lot) where we found the second one. Then we came home again. We watched the "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" before Ed went home at 6 pm. I finished 2 Chronicles 21, and added 2 Chronicles 22, 2 Chronicles 23, and 2 Chronicles 24. I watched "As Time Goes By" and "My Family".

NOVEMBER 2009

Leaves on the Ground

Mt Hood in the morning after the fog lifted

On November 1, 2009, Sunday, At 12:30 am, I remembered the time change. I tried changing my alarm clock, but couldn't for some reason. I changed my Pocket PC, my wrist watch, and the wall clock, and set my alarm for an hour later to compensate for not being able to set the clock itself. (I finally was able to set my alarm clock normally).

I got up at 7:40 am (surprised not to be awakened earlier by mistake). After breakfast, I set the clocks in the living room, dining room, kitchen, and in Margaret's room. I shaved and dressed for Church. I added 2 Chronicles 25. About 15 minutes early, I went outside to wait for my ride and to take photos. Dan and his family picked me up in their pickup. I visited with Phyllis while listening to our Ward choir practicing their Christmas numbers. We had a great Testimony meeting. I wrote down a poem that came to me:

Pain has been a faithful friend
And Loss my next of kin.
Thanks be to God who lights the Joy
That brightly burns within.

On November 2, 2009, Monday, I got up at 2 am, overly warm in the room (77^o). I updated this News page after copying the last month to my Fall 2009 page. I added a new page for this month's poems. I removed the old sidebar menu from all 75 of my Poetry pages. I added 2 Chronicles 31, 2 Chronicles 32, 2 Chronicles 33, 2 Chronicles 34, 2 Chronicles 35, and 2 Chronicles 36. I updated the web files to my Pocket PC. I went back to bed to sleep at 7 am. I got up to my alarm at 7:40 am. I added Ezra 1 before breakfast. After breakfast, I took another nap. Ed came and we watched "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest" and "Karate Kid III". About 4 pm, a lady therapist from Elderplace came over to check me out on the arm exercises that Joe had shown me. Then Ed and I watched "The Next Karate Kid". Ed went home at 6 pm. I added Ezra 2, Ezra 3, Ezra 4, Ezra 5, Ezra 6, Ezra 7, Ezra 8, Ezra 9, and Ezra 10.

Two Tigers

One of the two new cheetahs at the Zoo

Bald Eagle - Last photo shot at the Zoo

On November 3, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:20 am. I checked my bank balance and confirmed that my Disability had been deposited, then wrote my three monthly checks. After breakfast, I gave Winda the rent check and got ready for the Zoo. Winda gave me the idea to tape my meds containers down in their brackets on my wheelchair so they won't accidentally fall out. I was outside waiting for Ed when he arrived. I put my wheelchair in the back of his pickup. I took just a few photos on the way to the Zoo. We arrived at the Zoo before 10 am. There weren't many other people around. We went down past the leopard and the tigers, down into Africa to the farthest part of the Zoo. We saw the new African Predtors exhibit, though we didn't see the lions. I got good photos of the cheetahs and a couple of the hyenas. We came up to the Africafe for lunch. I had a hot dog combo and a large oatmeal-raisin cookie. From there we went to the Elephant house, then through the bears to the farm. We went passed the cougars (though they weren't visible), up to the eagles where I took my last zoo photo, and up the trail to where we came in. We went to the Gift Shop where I bought some orange-chocolate fudge to share at home, and a no-sharpen pencil. When we got back to Ed's pickup, I heard something fall, and looking down, I found a bolt which I took to be from the hand rail I use to move my wheelchair, but not being able to find where it was missing from, I put it in my pocket. Ed got me home by 3 pm. I copied my photos (222 of them) to my computer. Ed and I watched something on the History Channel about extreme marksmanship. I checked our route with Google Earth and found from leaving his vehicle through the trip around the Zoo to returning to his vehicle again, we had only traveled 1.3 miles. Ed left at 5 pm. On my way to supper, a spacer fell off my chair and showed me where the missing bolt came from. After supper, I replaced the bolt and spacer on my wheelchair and tightened a couple of others. I watched "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" on TV. I renewed my Norton Symantec virus software (it was supposed to have been renewed automatically) after it lapsed.

Me, in my half-finished room

On November 4, 2009, Wednesday, I woke up with the strong impression that when God pronounces a blessing, it is always conditional upon our obedience to His commandments, or at least a certain commandment. Failing to keep commandments brings a curse (at least the withdrawal of the named blessing).
I got up at 7:30 am. After breakfast, I began rearranging my room. By lunch, I had moved everything from the wall under the window, moved the black cabinet to the corner between the closet and the window and the bookcase that was on the cabinet to the other corner, and the vertical VHS case up against the black cabinet so the case and the bookcase will space the bed (when I move it) from the wall leaving clearance for the electrical outlet and cables. I set up the printer and TV on the black cabinet. After lunch, I moved my bed into its new location. I set up my computer between the bed and the wall under the window. I set up the monitor at the foot of my bed. Today was a sunny day and got to 72^o and other than having my window open and getting fresh air, I pretty much missed it. I watched "Reba" on TV until supper time. After supper, I watched "NCIS" and added Nehemiah 1 and Nehemiah 2. I went to bed at 8 pm.

On November 5, 2009, Thursday, I woke just after midnight, and got up after 12:30 am. The toes of my right foot were hurting me. I added Nehemiah 3 and Nehemiah 4. I went back to bed at 3:15 am.
I got up at 7:30 am. I added Nehemiah 5, Nehemiah 6, and Nehemiah 7. After lunch, I added Nehemiah 8, Nehemiah 9, Nehemiah 10, Nehemiah 11, Nehemiah 12, and Nehemiah 13. After supper, I added Esther 1 and Esther 2.

Gresham Flags - Country, State, City, and Arbor Day flags

On November 6, 2009, Friday, I got up at 6:55 am. I shaved, dressed, and packed for Elderplace. Torian picked me up. I wore my wool poncho and my Indiana Jones hat. He had two cancellations so only 4 passengers. When I got to Elderplace, I dropped off some books in the library and took my CBG monitor upstairs. I weighed myself at 317.9 lbs. I bought some diet Cokes and went to the McKenzie Room to wait for Lisa's Discussion Group. After the group, I went to the Sandy Room and sang karaoke for nearly an hour. I had the breaded fish. After lunch, I visited then Torian loaded us on the bus. It was sunny so I didn't need my poncho. We had a last minute add-on, whom he dropped off last. He got me home by 2 pm. I had taken over 40 photos and I copied them to my computer. Before supper, I added Esther 3, Esther 4, Esther 5, Esther 6, Esther 7, Esther 8, Esther 9, and Esther 10. After supper, I added Job 1, Job 2, and Job 3.

On November 7, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:20 am. After breakfast, at 9 am, Ed came over. We watched "Apocalypse" and the pilot episode of "Firefly" on DVD. After lunch, the rain and wind arrived. Ed went out to get something to eat. Thunder and lightning at 12:30 pm. I added Job 4. Ed returned and we watched "Firefly: Bushwhacked". Then we watched the History Channel. Erin IM'd me and I shared some of my better photos from the recent Zoo trip. Ed left at 4 pm. I cleared off the dresser top. Before supper, I added Job 5 and Job 6. After supper, on Fox News I watched the House of Representatives vote on and pass the House version of the Health Care bill. Only one Republican voted for it, and a number of Democrats voted against it. It passed by only two votes. In spite of that President Obama called it a victory "for the people". Apparently, he is satisfied in representing only the Democrats. I watched "As Time Goes By" and "My Family" on OPB.

Thanksgiving messages for the Bishop's door

On November 8, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:42 am. After breakfast, I studied my Priesthood lesson: "The Restoration of All Things: The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times". I shaved (As I began to shave I found myself softly singing a cheerful tune, and I realized that I got my optimism from my Mother (before anything else).) and dressed for Church. I studied my Sunday School lesson: "Every Member a Missionary". I made sure I had everything I would need for Church (except my small Hymns book). I spent about a half hour outside taking pictures before Dan and his family picked me up. At Church, I listened to the choir practice and had several people say how I should be in the choir. In Sacrament meeting it was announced that Br. Keith Hansen (Scott's father) died last week. His funeral will be Friday at the Stake Center at 11 am. Also Steve Lowder was sustained as Ward Executive Secretary and Bud Koch was sustained as Ward Clerk. Br. Udoma gave a talk on Personal Revelation. After the choir sang, Sis. Richey talked on the different ways that revelation comes. Br. Scott Hansen was the final speaker. He said that he went to the temple three times to prepare for this talk. Some people prepare a lesson, others prepare themselves. (I was reminded how in the Old Testament scriptures I have been reading lately, how the priests had to prepare themselves to officiate, and the people had to prepare themselves to worship.) We need to make and keep covenants to prepare ourselves. In Sunday School I resolved to remember to pray for countries to open their doors to our missionaries. In Priesthood, we discussed this Dispensation of the fullness of times. There is a Turkey Shoot/Chili Cookoff and a HP Christmas Dinner coming up, and Tithing Settlement, too. We shared some jokes on the way home. Dan got me home by 3 pm. Tess gave me an email address for her neice so I emailed her 8 photos to that address. I updated my journal and copied my photos to the computer. I tried phoning my Mom, but there was no answer. After supper, I was really tired. At 6:30 pm, I phoned Mom and visited with her for half an hour. She had been shopping with Becky earlier at WinCo in Salem.

On November 9, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:42 am. After breakfast, and after 9 am, I began rearranging the second half of my room. In digging through the stuff in the closet, I found a glass aquarium top (for a 30 gallon tank) which I put on my 10 gallon aquarium, though it overhangs nearly a foot. After lunch, I got the shelves moved out of the closet and to the wall across from the window. I moved, with great difficulty because of the weight, the dresser with the aquarium to the closet. By 4 pm, I had it pretty well cleaned up. I sang karaoke until supper time. After supper, I watched "NCIS" until 9 pm when I went to bed.

My 10-gallon Aquarium after replacing the glass top

My new room arrangement

On November 10, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 5 am, after 8 hours sleep. I placed one of my blue windshield shades behind my aquarium, and in the process I leaned on the overhanging glass top to the aquarium and broke it. I replaced it with the plastic screen from an old monitor. Before 6:45 am, I added Job 7, Job 8, and Job 9. I updated my web journal page, and updated the web files on my Pocket PC. After breakfast, Dan took my garbage out. I finally, after two years, began reading Hugh Hewitt's "A Mormon in the White House?" about Mitt Romney. I read the introduction and first chapter. An interesting paragraph about Joseph Smith's candidacy for President of the United States is:

The founding prophet of the Mormon Church, Joseph Smith, declared his candidacy for the presidency in 1844. "Smith embarked on an astonishing round of political activity in early 1844," Richard and Joan Ostling recount in their superb 1999 book, Mormon America. "With the backing of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he declared himself an independent candidate for the U.S. presidency on January 29, running on a progressive platform of religious rights, purchase of freedom for slaves, emptying of the jails, and overhaul of the economy in a populist mode. In February he organized the apostles and hundreds of other missionaries to fan out across the country in support of his candidacy."

I took photos of a whitish bump on my lower right leg. Before lunch, I added Job 10, Job 11, and Job 12. After lunch, I watched "Agent Cody Banks" on the Disney Channel. I read Chapter 2 of the Mitt Romney book. I watched "Becker" on TV. Before supper, I added Job 13 and Job 14. At supper, and after, I watched a Disney movie, "The Kid". I added Job 15, Job 16, Job 17, and Job 18. Bildad speaks of knowledge of God that is older than the Pentateuch, coming from the long-lived patriarchs (after the Flood), and comparable to scripure. Before going to bed, I watched "Terminator 2: Judgment Day".

Polar Ice Cap - Job 26:7, "He stretched out the north over the empty place."

On November 11, 2009, Wednesday, Veterans' Day, I got up at 7:30 am after sleeping 8 hours. After breakfast, One of the people at the table was given an address to read to her sister over the phone for an appointment. Since she was having trouble reading it. I typed it into my computer and printed it up in the largest print that would fill one page. She had no trouble reading it then. I added Job 19 and Job 20. I napped about an hour and a half before lunch. After lunch, I moved some things around on my walls, put a board under my printer to stabilize it and to catch the output papers (the tray is broken), and hung one of the flags from my window as a curtain over the half of my closet where the clothes hang. I sang karaoke for about an hour. I added Job 21, Job 22, Job 23, Job 24, Job 25, and Job 26. After supper, I added Job 27, Job 28, Job 29, Job 30, and Job 31.

On November 12, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 7:42 am. Ed came over after breakfast. We watched "Fly Away Home", "A Girl of the Limberlost", and several episodes of "Greatest American Hero". Ed left at supper time. After supper, I added Job 32, Job 33, Job 34, Job 35, Job 36, and Job 37.

Accordianist at Elderplace

RingSide Steakhouse at Glendoveer

On November 13, 2009, Friday, I got up at 5:10 am. I added Job 38 and Job 39. I downloaded photos from my camera and updated my web pages on my Pocket PC. I shaved, dressed, and packed for Elderplace. As forecast, it is raining. I tried adding to my PrePay phone account, but was faced with a blank page for 15 minutes after I asked to add $15 to it. After brekfast, Torian picked me up for Elderplace. He only had 4 passengers today. Lois, next door, cancelled for the third week in a row. When I got there, I unloaded the books for the library, then I requested new test strips for my CBG monitor. I weighed 315.7 lbs. and bought three cans of diet Coke from the machine. I went to the McKenzie Room for Lisa's Discussion Group. After that, I went to the Columbia Room and listened to the accordianist until 11 am, when I went to the Sandy Room and sang karaoke. After lunch (I had the fish), Ed dropped in and visited until it was time for me to leave. Torian got me home by 2 pm. Ed was there waiting. We watched several episodes of "Greatest American Hero". Then Ed took me to the RingSide steak house (next to the Glendoveer golf course) and treated me to supper. I had the $25 special: Salmon with baked potato. For the first course, I had the Lettuce Wedge with tomatoes and shrimp (I didn't eat the shrimp). For dessert, I had the cheesecake with orange flavor and hazelnut crust. It was all delicious. We got home at 6:45 pm and watched one more episode of GAH. After Ed left, I copied the photos I had taken today to my computer. I tried again to add to my prepay account, but the site said it was unable to process the request.

On November 14, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:42 am. I finally managed to add $15 to my prepay phone. After breakfast, I added Job 40, Job 41, and Job 42. I removed the sidebar menu and replaced it with the link to the site menu page for the first 50 chapters of Psalms, which I had already created. I added Psalm 51. After lunch, I took some photos of Tess with the residents, one at a time. She will have copies emailed to me as it was done with a camera she had borrowed. I added Psalm 52, Psalm 53, Psalm 54, and Psalm 55. I created a page for the word "Hell" and explained how it is used and what it means in each case. I removed the sidebar menu and replaced it with the link to the site menu in the 1 Nephi pages. After supper, I added the links to where "Sheol" and "Hades" are translated as "grave". I watched "As Time Goes By" and "My Family" on OPB.

Rare occasion when our Chapel is empty

On November 15, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 6:50 am. I studied for my Priesthood lesson, "Joseph Smith's Feelings about His Prophetic Mission". I copied my web files to my Pocket PC. after breakfast, I shaved, dressed, and packed for Church. I studied my Sunday School Lesson, "Continuing Revelation to Latter-day Prophets". Larry called to say that he would be picking me up again, so I found myself with an extra hour at home. I added Psalm 56, Psalm 57, Psalm 58, and Psalm 59. I went outside and took photos until Larry and his wife arrived to take me to Church. The Sacrament talks were on "Charity, the Pure Love of Christ".
I wrote a poem:

For what am I thankful?
For what am I not?
For all that I have, and
For all I have not.
For all that I'm given,
For all I receive,
For all I've been promised,
For all I believe.
For troubles uncounted,
For making me grow.
For troubles prevented,
For mercy, I know.
For all that God plans
For my welfare each day,
For His Spirit within me,
For hearing me pray.

Sunday School was taught by Sister Conklin and we spent most of our time discussing the benefits of Correlation. I led the High Priest discussion on the Feelings of Joseph Smith. I got a chance to see the Bishop for Tithing Settlement. I traded with Br. Dickey and actually was seen before Larry, who already had an appointment for 3:30, but he got in at 3:15 and He got me home only an hour later than usual. I took some photos in the house and copied today's photos to the computer. After supper, I added the above poem to my Poetry pages. I added Psalm 60, Psalm 61, Psalm 62, and Psalm 63. I made a JPG of the poem above and shared it on Facebook. I watched "Meet the Robinsons" on TV.

On November 16, 2009, Monday, I got up at 6:45 am. Before breakfast, I added Psalm 64 and Psalm 65. Beginning with chapter 63, I began adding the links to previous and next chapters at the top of each page. After breakfast, I printed more copies of yesterday's poem. I added Psalm 66 and Psalm 67. I read chapter 4 of "A Mormon in the White House?" about Mitt Romney's turnaround of the Salt Lake Olympics and how it relates to his value if he becomes President. I added Psalm 68 and Psalm 69. I took a short nap before lunch. After lunch, I added Psalm 70, Psalm 71, and Psalm 72. I watched "Joan of Arcadia" on SyFy. I added Psalm 73, Psalm 74, and Psalm 75. I watched "Eloise in Manhattan". I added Psalm 76, Psalm 77, and Psalm 78. I watched "Ghost Whisperer".

A break in our rainy, windy weather

On November 17, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:38 am. After breakfast, I added links to references to the word "hell" in the Book of Mormon, D&C, and Pearl of Great Price to my word study page for the word "Hell". My monthly supply of meds was delivered while I was at lunch. I watched "Sky High" on TV. I added Psalm 79, Psalm 80, Psalm 81, Psalm 82, Psalm 83, Psalm 84, Psalm 85, and Psalm 86. I refilled my two drinking bottles and changed the 5-gallon bottle in the dining room. I refilled the 5-gallon bottle in my room from the shower head. The personal fan I ordered was delivered after 4:30 pm. I moved a couple of things and set it up next to the head of my bed. After supper, I cleaned up the area that I rearranged for the new fan. I added Psalm 87, Psalm 88, and Psalm 89. I watched "Herbie: Fully Loaded" on TV.

My new Personal Fan at the head of my bed

On November 18, 2009, Wednesday, I got up at 6:10 am. Before breakfast, I added Psalm 90, Psalm 91, and sorted out my new month's supply of meds. After breakfast, I took photos of my new fan and where I installed it. I skinned my right 2nd toe on my rolling table, and caused it to bleed. I cleaned it and stopped the bleeding. I copied my photos to the computer. I added Psalm 92, Psalm 93, Psalm 94, and Psalm 95. I joined Carolyn, the music lady, and the rest of the ladies here in singing Thanksgiving and patriotic songs. I learned that the Pilgrims landed on Nov 11^th, same as Veterans' Day. I gave her a copy of my "For What Am I Thankful" poem. After lunch, I took a nap. At 3 pm, I was awakened to answer a phone call from Linda, a nurse for Elderplace. She will come tomorrow morning before breakfast to draw blood before I eat anything. So ... I got up. Before supper, I added Psalm 96, Psalm 97, Psalm 98, Psalm 99, Psalm 100, and Psalm 101. After supper, I added Psalm 102, Psalm 103, Psalm 104, and Psalm 105 while watching "Stargate SG-1" and "NCIS".

Half of our half 'n' half pizza

Star Trek: A New Beginning

On November 19, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 4:35 am. Because the computer has been running slowly, I deleted temporary internet files but noted no improvement afterward. I added Psalm 106 with links regarding Phinehas, son of Eleazar, son of Aaron. I went back to bed at 6:30 am. Nurse Linda arrived at 7:40 am. She drew blood from my left arm for triglycerides and the A1C (blood sugar). I showed her a bit of what I have been doing on my web pages. She left at 7:55 am. My CBG before breakfast was 126 (about what I expected since I haven't been to sleep since 4:00 am. Ed showed up about 8:45 am. I added Psalm 107 while watching "Stargate Universe" and "Sanctuary" on SyFy. A bit after 11 am, we left and went to Blockbuster Video on Stark St. I bought a DVD of the "Star Trek" movie we saw earlier this year. Then, instead of going to DQ for lunch as planned, We had lunch at Zappo's Pizza in the same building as Blockbuster. I treated Ed to Pepsi's, half of a medium pizza, and ice cream for dessert. My half of the pizza was vegetarian (minus the mushrooms) with extra cheese. When we got back to my place, we watched the "Star Trek" DVD with the special features, then watched the last episode of "Greatest American Hero" and its special features. Ed left at 5 pm. I added Psalm 108, Psalm 109, and Psalm 110 while watching "NCIS".

On November 20, 2009, Friday, I got up at 4:15 am. I added Psalm 111, Psalm 112, Psalm 113, Psalm 114, Psalm 115, Psalm 116, Psalm 117, Psalm 118, and Psalm 119, without finishing it. I dressed and gathered my things for Elderplace. After breakfast, I washed up and changed my shirt. Torian picked me up about 8:40 am. I took my CBG monitor upstairs, then weighed myself (317.4 lbs). I met with Lisa's Discussion Group, then sang karaoke in the Sandy Room. After lunch (Thanksgiving dinner), I sang Christmas songs. Torian got me home by 2 pm and Ed was waiting for me. We watched "Jack Frost", then "NCIS". Ed went home at 7 pm. I finished Psalm 119, and added Psalm 120, Psalm 121, Psalm 122, and Psalm 123.

Another Rainy Day

On November 21, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:20 am. I wrote a poem:

Life is full of misery and woe,
We face grief each place we go.
Pain and loss are with us here,
Trying hard to make us fear.
Whether we live short or long,
We'll prove too soon where we belong.

But in the darkness of this world
A light of hope has been unfurled.
A promise that if we endure
A blessed place for us is sure.
And if we walk in purity,
Our souls will see eternity.

The Road to Church

Blue Sky Over the Church Parking Lot

The Road Home Again in the Afternoon

Movie: Hoiday in Handcuffs

On November 22, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 5:35 am. I wrote a poem:

I'm thankful for a place to sleep,
And shelter up above,
A home with friends who really care,
And meals prepared with love.

I'm thankful for my family,
Tho oft we're kept apart,
And when I cannot be with them,
I hold them in my heart.

I'm thankful for my friends from Church,
And for the Love we share,
For help with things I cannot do,
And knowing that they care.

I'm thankful for my Father, God,
Who guides me from above,
For all His words and faithfulness,
And most of all, His Love.

I'm thankful for my Savior, Christ,
Who suffered all for me,
To bring me back from Satan's power,
And show me Liberty.

I'm thankful for the words of Truth,
That comfort me each day,
And guide me on my path to God,
Unfailingly, each day.

I'm thankful for the miracles,
That I am blessed to know,
The way I feel God's love with me,
Everywhere I go.

In truth, I cannot thank enough,
My Father, or His Son,
For all the blessings they bestow -
I've only just begun.

On November 23, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:42 am, but went back to bed right after breakfast. I got up at 11:30 am. I posted my latest poem on SodaHead. After lunch, I took Mom's letter out to the mailbox and put the flag up. I added Psalm 145, Psalm 146, Psalm 147, Psalm 148, Psalm 149, Psalm 150, and Proverbs 1.
After supper, I napped again. I went online and chatted with my daughter on Facebook. I added Proverbs 2.

On November 24, 2009, Tuesday, Darwin's "On Origin of the Species" published in 1859, I got up at 7:46 am. After breakfast, I looked for Christmas tree wall hangings online. I made some widescreen Christmas tree wallpaper from photos I Googled. I found that none of my green construction paper was dark enough for my idea of a wall hanging tree. I added Proverbs 3, Proverbs 4, and Proverbs 5.

On November 25, 2009, Wednesday, I got up at 7:42 am. After breakfast, I ran a program to clean up my hard drive, hoping to speed up the processing time. I took a nap until lunch. After lunch, I took a graphic from the internet and played with the colors and contrast to make a new picture for a Christmas wallpaper. Steve phoned and said that Larry would be picking me up tomorrow about 1 pm for dinner.

My Thanksgiving Day Meal

The Gathered Thanksgivingers

On November 26, 2009, Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, I got up at 7:30 am. It is raining (as predicted). For breakfast, I had three biscuits, scrambled eggs, applesauce, and juice. I shaved and topped off my aquarium (it took 3-1/2 gallons). I listened to Christmas music on AM radio. Ed came over at 10 am. I chatted with both Erin and my daughter online with IM. Erin is going to her Aunts' and my daughter is staying home with her Mom and having Denny's' take out. Ed left about 11:30. I changed clothes and packed a bag, including the Apples to Apples game and my karaoke CDs. I updated the web files on my Pocket PC. I changed my bedding. We had soup for lunch. Larry picked me up at 12:50 pm. It was raining, but my wool poncho and hat kept me and my things dry. Larry helped in the kitchen and I joined some of the others in the Family Room. Dinner was ready a little after 2 pm. I had turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, green beans, sweet potato, sweet pickles, two kinds of cranberry sauce, cheddar cheese, a roll, and green gelatin with carrots and celery in it. We drank Martinelli's Sparkling Cider. Just like Noah in his ark, there were eight of us: Me, Larry and his wife, Steve, his wife, their son, his sister, and his mother-in-law. Afterwards, we watched a movie, "Forever Strong", in the Family Room. It was about a Rugby player (and I knew nothing about rugby) who gets drunk, then into an accident that severly injures his passenger (also drunk). He is sent to a juvenile correction facility where he learns, through rugby, to make the necessary corrections to his life. The motto was "Listen Right." The only rule was "I will do nothing to embarass myself, my team, or my family." At 5 pm, we had pie. I had two pieces of pumpkin pie, the first with topping. Steve, Larry, and I sat at a table and talked. I was given a Temple and Family History Work guide and asked to work up a pamphlet to advertise a new genealogy class. I was also invited to go with Steve and Larry to the Temple on Tuesday, December 1st, at 8:30 am, and asked to offer the closing prayer in Sacrament meeting on Sunday. Larry got me home by 7 pm. Martha was just getting home at the same time. I copied my photos to the computer and updated my web journal.

Ed and I watching TV

On November 27, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:30 am. I shared photos with my daughter by email. After breakfast, I moved my monitor to under the window next to the foot of my bed. Ed came over about 10 am. I added Proverbs 6, Proverbs 7, and Proverbs 8 while we watched James Bond movies starring Sean Connery: "Thunderball" and "From Russia with Love". After lunch, we continued watching Bond movies ("You Only Live Twice"), and I added Proverbs 9 and Proverbs 10. Ed left at 6 pm, after "Diamonds Are Forever". I watched "Casino Royale". While I watched "GoldenEye", I added Proverbs 11, Proverbs 12, Proverbs 13, and Proverbs 14. I watched "Goldfinger" and a lot of "Never Say Never Again" before giving up and going to bed about 3:30 am.

On November 28, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:48 am. After breakfast, I went back to bed until lunch time. After lunch, I sang karaoke for about an hour and a half. I began working on the pamphlet for the genealogy class. After supper, I watched "The Santa Clause", "As Time Goes By", and "My Family" on TV.

Rain Cloud over mountains in Washington

Mt. Hood seen from Boring, Oregon

Rose buds at our front porch

On November 29, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:30 am. I had intended to get up an hour earlier, but reset my alarm twice, struggling with whether I could even get up what it required to make it to Church today. Finally, the fact that I had an assignment to give the closing prayer in Sacrament won the day for me. I also need to write a letter to my brother John. I wrote this poem:

As thy priests and Levites did
   in former days,
Making sacrifices there
    in ordained ways,
We do offer up our hearts
    before the Lord,
Both broken and contrite,
    as per thy word.
As thy Glory in days of yore
    on earth appeared,
And the people who saw the cloud
    did bow and feared,
May thy Spirit fill our hearts
    with Glory now,
That we may praise thy Name
    who keep thy vow.

After breakfast, I shaved, showered, and dressed for Church. I worked some more on the Genealogy pamphlet. I packed my bag for Church. Tess brought me an egg salad sandwich for my lunch. Larry picked me up a little before 11 am. A baby was blessed, but the microphone was on the fritz and I didn't hear a word of the blessing, nor the baby's name. I thought as the Aaronic priesthood holders passed the trays with the emblems of the broken body and shed blood of our Savior, so we carry the teachings and the ordinances of the Gospel to each other and to the world. The sacrament talks were about the Gospel. Sis. Childs said that the Book of Mormon was written and preserved for out day. She gave examples of things that especially apply to our times. Br. Papenfuss said that the gospel gives us (a true) perspective. During the closing hymn, I wheeled to the front, and when it was finished, I stood up and walked up the ramp to the podium. My prayer went much better than I imagined it. The Spirit spoke through me. In Sunday School, Sis. Conklin taught the lesson on the role of government in our lives, and our role in government. The third meeting was a joint meeting of the priesthood and Relief Society on missionary work. Br. Jensen said, "When the Holy Ghost touches us, more often than not, it is for us to do something." I should start and keep a missionary journal. I thought of Lois next door, who wants me to read to her. Mormon.org and josephsmith.net were mentioned as good missionary tools. The brother of Jared made a plan. On the way home, I took photos. Larry got me home by 2:50 pm. I copied my photos to the computer and updated my web journal. After supper, I started a letter to John. About 6:20 pm, my home teachers came. Veraun told a little bit about how Miracles are still occurring today. We all shared some of the miracles that have occurred in our lives. They left at 6:40 pm. I finished John's letter, and set it out to be mailed. I added Proverbs 15 and Proverbs 16. I watched a movie on TV called "Flyboys" about WWI pilots in France.

On November 30, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:36 am. After breakfast, I tried going back to bed but my mind set itself to thinking of things to do, so I got up again. I added the Word Studies Index. I added Proverbs 17, Proverbs 18, and Proverbs 19. After lunch, I watched "Highlander: The Raven" on TV. I added Proverbs 20 and Proverbs 21. After supper, I added a Word Study page for Giants. I watched NCIS before going to bed,

DECEMBER 2009

Approaching the Temple from the South on I-5

Entrance to the Portland Oregon Temple (LDS)

On December 1, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 3:30 am, after about 6 hours' sleep, though my alarm was set for 5 am. I added a Word Study page for Book, and got through the book of Ezekiel before I had to stop. I shaved and dressed for the Temple. I tightened two bolts for the hand rim for my wheelchair and packed a bag. About 8:20 am, I went outside to wait and take some photos. Steve picked me up and we took the route south through Damascus and I-205 to I-5 where we doubled back to the temple. I got my temple clothing and my special wheelchair pouch for the endowment. I was supposed to meet Steve in the chapel after changing clothes, but the temple workers intercepted me and pushed me up to the area between the endowment rooms and took me to the platform next to the veils so I wouldn't have any stairs to go up. Steve made it there, too. We missed the 9:30 session we were aiming for and caught the 10 am session. It went well. The robe was shorter than usual, and the apron tie was hooked and adjustable so it didn't have to be tied. When it was time to go through the veil, I found the chair barely fit through, but it did. I got dressed before Steve, so I went outside and took pictures of the temple. I got more photos on the way home, including several of Mt. Hood. I saw Mt. St. Helens once, but didn't get a photo of it. Steve got me home about 1 pm and Winda had my lunch ready and warm for me (meatloaf sandwich and potato salad). I copied my photos to my computer. I took a nap until supper. I continued the Word Study page for Book, and got through the book of Revelation. I watched "The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause" on TV.

[full moon] December 2, 2009, Wednesday: I got up at 8 am. At breakfast, I learned of a shooting in Keizer, which turned out to have occurred nearly two miles (by street) from my Mom's. I cropped and enhanced some more of yesterday's photos, and added one to yesterday's web journal entry. I managed to connect with my web provider and uploaded all my web files to the internet. I hadn't done that since at least mid-August. I added Proverbs 22, but wasn't able to continue due to my computer scriptures not working. I found that I was temporarily offline for some reason. It also affected my Internet Explorer. The problem went away shortly and I was able to finish adding Proverbs 22. After breakfast, I checked my bank account, copied my bank statements from this year to my computer, and ordered 1000 DVD envelopes and a green Christmas garland through Amazon.com. Then I checked my messages and I got a reminder that I should have gone through www.mcnarychoirs.com for my orders. I added 13 new temple photos to my Facebook profile. I chatted with my daughter on Facebook, then took a nap. After supper, I added Proverbs 23, Proverbs 24, Proverbs 25, Proverbs 26, and Proverbs 27.

Waxing Moon through high mackerel clouds

On December 3, 2009, Thursday [Pay Day], I got up at 5:30 am, after laying awake for half an hour. I checked my bank account online to verify that my Disability had been deposited. I wrote my usual three monthly checks. I added Proverbs 28 and Proverbs 29. I updated the web files to my Pocket PC. When Willy tried to go out the front door after breakfast, he found the swing set on the front porch had blown over and the canopy was flat against the doorway. Dan righted it again for him. I looked through my new Carol Wright and Dr. Leonard catalogs and ordered a talking watch from Carol Wright. The weathermen say it will snow here next Wednesday. If it does, it will beat last year's early snow by four days. I added Proverbs 30, Proverbs 31, and Ecclesiastes 1. After lunch, I added Ecclesiastes 2 and Ecclesiastes 3. I took a nap. I added Ecclesiastes 4 and Ecclesiastes 5. After supper, I added Ecclesiastes 6, Ecclesiastes 7, Ecclesiastes 8, and Ecclesiastes 9. About 8 pm, I went out on the front porch and took photos of the moon shining through high mackerel clouds.

The same moon the next morning in a clear sky

On December 4, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:25 am (been awake since the doorbell rang about 6:30). I actually put my pants on backwards this morning. I gathered my things for Elderplace. It is 26^o F outside (and 76^o in my room). After breakfast, I put on my wool poncho, my red scarf, and my knit cap and went out front to take photos and wait for the bus. Torian had two new riders from a place on Roberts, and Lois cancelled. When I arrived, I took my CBG monitor upstairs. Nurse Sana talked to me, and told me that once a month was often enough to download my monitor data. I went downstairs, weighed myself (316.0 lbs.), got some change from Peggy, and bought two cans of diet Soda. Our Discussion group moved to the Library, where I shared my soda with the other member of the group. After discussion, an RNA checked my blood pressure (124/70). I went to the Sandy Room where I sang Christmas karaoke before and after lunch (I had fish). Someone there said it was supposed to snow Sunday. (Turns out it was 8 days away, not tomorrow). Predicting the weather must be a discouraging job, especially the way snow comes and goes in the forecast. Torian got me home before 2 pm. I copied my photos to my computer and updated my web journal. Ed showed up about 4 pm. We watche the last half of "Ghostbusters" then "Ghostbusters 2" on TV. Ed left at 8 pm. I added Ecclesiastes 10, Ecclesiastes 11, and Ecclesiastes 12.

The Roof of the House next door, just Frost

On December 5, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:05 am. I wrote a poem, The Wisdom of Solomon before breakfast:

King Solomon of old
Was wise as any king.
He had the wealth and power
To try most anything.
He searched to know the reasons,
For how things work in life.
He sought for words of wisdom
That men might cease from strife.
He tried to find the answer
To why men work in vain
And what of all the earth
Was best for man to gain.

King Solomon at last
Concluded life was vain
For man to strive to work
Or anything to gain.
That what was best for man,
In all of life down here,
To do what God commands,
And to His name give fear;
Rejoice in all your joy,
And bear up through your pain,
And God will judge our deeds,
And bring us home again.

After breakfast, it was still 25^o outside. I added a page for My Poems from December 2009 with the new poem. I added Song of Solomon 1, Song of Solomon 2, and Song of Solomon 3. After lunch, I added Song of Solomon 4, Song of Solomon 5, Song of Solomon 6, Song of Solomon 7, and Song of Solomon 8. Before supper, I added Isaiah 1. After supper, I added Isaiah 2 and Isaiah 3. I watched "The Santa Clause 2" on TV.

The Moon at 10 am.

This was my Ride.

The First Presidency Christmas Devotional

On December 6, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:30 am (Temp. 34^oF.). I copied my web pages to my Pocket PC. After breakfast, I shaved, dressed, and packed for Church. I went outside to take photos and wait for my ride. Dan and his wife picked me up, then picked up Hannah, then we went to Church. I parked my chair next to Phyllis' chair and we visited while the choir practiced. In Testimony meeting, a baby, Lydia Karlgard was blessed, and Sis. Southworth was sustained as the Stake Music Director. After taking the sacrament, I wrote this poem, Sacrament:

I thank thee Father for Living Bread
Whom thou hast honored at our head,
And for the sweetness to the taste
Of bread we take, but not in haste,
When, Lo, our Savior suffered deep
Our souls in purity to keep.
And, O, the water that we drink
While of the Savior's love we think,
To whom it was a bitter cup,
To us, it means we're lifted up.

May we be worthy of that bread,
And of the cup for which He bled,
That we, when life is done below,
Where all thy saints shall dwell, may go.

Our Sunday School class, taught by Sis. Conklin, was on the Family Proclamation. In the last hour, our Temple and Family History committee met. Dan got me home by 3 pm. I copied my photos to the computer and updated my web journal page. It grew colder in the afternoon than in the evening, in spite of clear skies. After supper, I watched the First Presidency Christmas Devotional on BYU TV with my computer. The Speakers were Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Henry B. Eyring, and Thomas S. Monson, with wonderful music by the Tabernacle Choir. Pres. Monson's story of the "Drama at Gate 67" brought me to tears. As I added Isaiah 4, Isaiah 5, and Isaiah 6, I continued listening to BYU TV. One speaker was talking about the Grace of Jesus Christ. He told how God doesn't require us to pay 20 years of back tithes (with interest) to get right with Him, only to begin now and be faithful. I began a word study on Justification, getting through the Old Testament.

The view (west) from my window (27o at 11:30 am)

On December 7, 2009, Monday, Pearl Harbor Day (1941), I got up at 7:30 am (Temp. 22^oF.). After breakfast, I updated my Pocket PC with my latest web pages. I copied photos from my camera. Having pain in both my left hip and my right shoulder, I rested while listening to speakers at BYU on the BYU TV internet channel. One of the speakers was Elder Marvin J. Ashton, who spoke about Joseph being confined in jail and separated from his loved ones and his church. After lunch, I sorted one of my drawers and added Isaiah 7, Isaiah 8, and Isaiah 9. I watched "Wizards of Waverly Place" and "Suite Life on Deck". After supper, I added Isaiah 10 and Isaiah 11. I watched the TV movie "Alice" on TV.

Christmas Party at Hometown Buffet

[3rd quarter moon] On December 8, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 7:30 am (Temp. 21^oF., expecting snow, maybe freezing rain, on Saturday and Sunday). After breakfast, I added Isaiah 12, Isaiah 13, and Isaiah 14. After lunch, I wrapped a White Elephant gift for tonight's High Priest Christmas Dinner. I sorted out my clothing and craft drawer and collected buttons and safety pins. I found one of my two missing copper/magnetic rings. My 1000 DVD envelopes arrived in the mail and I began putting my DVDs into them. I got through the Ds. I shaved and dressed for the Christmas party. Supper was 20 minutes late, and to top that off, Winda misunderstood that I didn't expect to eat with the rest for supper, but she gave me a glass of juice and a banana just before my ride arrived. Larry and his wife picked me up and we arrived at the Home Town Buffet at Plaza 205 at 6 pm. Our waitress got me a diet Coke, and later a glass of chocolate milk. Otherwise, I fended for myself. I sat next to Sis. Chipman, whose birthday it was today. She got a whipped dessert with a candle in it, and we all sang Happy Birthday to her. I had mashed potatoes, corn, and pickled beets, then I had potato salad with chopped eggs and peas, and for dessert I had vanilla ice cream with strawberry syrup. I drew number 34 for gifts. I saw my Christmas music CDs go around number 30 and I was told it was "stolen" a couple of times. When it was my turn, I got a package of 25 1.44 MB floppy disks in different colors with a wire ornament as a package decoration. I got home about 8:45 pm and Winda let me in. I gave her the ornament for a tree and plan to use the colorful floppy disks as ornaments on my own tree. I continued where I left off putting my DVDs in the new envelopes and got as far as finishing the Star Wars DVDs.

On December 9, 2009, Wednesday, I got up at 7:42 am (Temp. 19^oF.). After breakfast, I resumed putting my DVDs into their envelopes, finishing by 10:30 am. I took a nap until lunch. After lunch, I sorted my DVDs into a drawer. I read some in "Kronos" on Egyptian-Judaean-Assyrian history around the time of Hezekiah. I napped until Winda brought me my mail: the Christmas garland I ordered, and a homemade card from Mom. I read the card and hung the garland on the fleece blanket I had hung on the wall. I hung it in a Christmas tree shape and added a few ornaments and Christmas cards to the blanket display. After supper, I wrote a letter to Mom and got it ready to mail, including my The Wisdom of Solomon poem and a photo taken with Tess' camera.

View through window in front door

On December 10, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 5:10 am (Temp. 23^oF. - Portland was reporting 14^oF.). After checking my online messages, I went back to bed. I got up again at 7:42 am (Temp. still 23^oF.). After breakfast, while Dan was cleaning behind the dryer and blocking the hallway to my room, I took photos in the living room. When I got to my room, I copied the photos to my computer. Ed showed up about 10 am. We watched "Enchanted", "Ember City", and "Stories of Christmas" on DVD. He brought in two pieces of metal furniture, stands for supporting some sort of light. When he left at 4:30 pm, he left one of them here, as well as two two-liter bottles of diet Pepsi, and several cans of the same. After supper, I added Isaiah 15, Isaiah 16, Isaiah 17, Isaiah 18, and Isaiah 19, while watching "NCIS".

Mt. St. Helens across the Columbia River

On December 11, 2009, Friday, I got up at 7:20 am (Temp. 23^oF.). I updated the web files to my Pocket PC. I dressed and packed my bag for Elderplace. I showed Tess and Margaret my Christmas "tree" before breakfast. After breakfast, at 8:30 am, I went outside to take photos and wait for my ride. Torian picked me up for Elderplace. When I got there, I weighed 316.8 lbs. We had Lisa's Discussion Group in the Deschutes Room. After that, I sang Christmas karaoke before and after lunch. Torian got me home by 2 pm. Ed showed up shortly thereafter. We watched "Joe vs. the Volcano" and "The Legend of Zorro" on DVD. He left at 7 pm. I added Isaiah 20 and Isaiah 21. I watched "Sanctuary" and "Stargate Universe".

On December 12, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:38 am (Temp. 33^oF.). It is cloudy. The News reported freezing rain in Salem and southward, but they are still holding out the hope of snowflakes here, even though the Doppler radar shows no signs of precipitation for our area. I napped until lunch. At noon, there was a fine rain with no apparent freezing. The rain continued through the afternoon, and I napped with Fox News on TV. After supper, I watched "Christmas Town". I added Isaiah 22 and Isaiah 23. I watched the last half of "Polar Express". When I got up at midnight, I opened the bathroom window to check the weather. It looked as if everything was iced over, but I did see what looked like unmelted snow in one protected spot.

On December 13, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 7:38 am (Temp. 27^oF.). It is foggy. I took photos of the ice on the porch. After breakfast, I took more photos. The ice was a thick sheet on everything, including the street. After checking the weather reports, I phoned Larry to tell him I was effectively iced-in and wouldn't be going to church today. I replaced one of the storage crates that were supporting my bed with a plastic shower stool. I replaced the other with two concrete decorator blocks and a board and cushioned it with a rolled up afghan. I remade my bed in burgandy and dark green for Christmas and in anticipation that I would yet bathe today. Later, I will have to repack (or discard) the stuff from the broken storage crate and dispose of the broken crate. While listening to Christmas music, I added Isaiah 24 and Isaiah 25. Larry phoned at 11 am and said they had cancelled Church at 11:30 am and would try to start at 12:30 pm. I checked the front porch and found it still icy, so told him I would not try it. After lunch, I watched "Snow 2: Brain Freeze" on TV. After taking a nap, I found an OPB telethon based on the Life of Peter, Paul and Mary. After supper, I added Isaiah 26, Isaiah 27, and Isaiah 28. I watched half of "Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book" (Disney) and "Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe". I added Isaiah 29 and Isaiah 30.

Erin during Video Chat

On December 14, 2009, Monday, I got up at 7:38 am (Temp. 41^oF.). Ed arrived not long after breakfast. We watched "Star Trek IV" on DVD, then we watched Bonus materials from the making of "Raiders of the Lost Ark". Ed left at 11:45 am, having to start work at 2 pm. After lunch, I went online and ordered two DVD movies from Amazon.com: "The Gnome-Mobile", that Ed wants, and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" which just came out. I also added $15 to my Verizon Wireless account. I napped until about 3 pm. I added Isaiah 31, Isaiah 32, and Isaiah 33. Steve and Larry invited me to go to the temple with them tomorrow morning. After supper, I added Isaiah 34 and Isaiah 35. I had an online chat with Erin.

[new moon] On December 15, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 6:30 am (Temp. 37^oF., and raining). I found that Tess was here and working today. After waiting in line for the bathroom, I shaved, bathed, and dressed for the Temple. I copied my web files to my Pocket PC to update them. After breakfast, Tess gave me a banana, just in case, to take with me. I gathered the things I would need for the temple trip. I waited in the living room. Larry arrived at 9:30 am. We picked up Andy next, then Steve. When we got to Lake Oswego, we made a stop at the Church Distribution center inside Deseret Book. Steve bought me a set of temple clothing and the endowment package (for a Christmas present). The pants and robe are on order. Then we went to the temple. Steve paid for my rental things (those that are on order). The clothes fit well and worked well in the endowment session. Afterward, I changed clothes again and we had lunch in the temple cafeteria in the basement. I had half an egg sandwich, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, pumpkin pie, and a soda. Larry dropped me off at home first about 2:50 pm. Winda had replaced Tess. I visited a bit with her and then with Margaret. I ate my banana and made myself comfortable in my room. I copied the photos I took to my computer. I found out today is Tess' birthday. After supper, I watched the Disney Channel, ending with "Peter Pan: Return to Neverland". Winda came to me asking if I had an extra lightbulb, the spiral kind, and at first I said, No. But then I saw that I had two lightbulbs in my overhead fixture, so I unscrewed one of them and went to take it to her, but then in the hallway, somehow I dropped it and it smashed into little pieces on the carpet. Since I was barefoot, I didn't move until Winda came and swept and vacuumed up (presumeably) all the pieces. I've heard bad things about these funny bulbs if you break them and how you have to use extreme measures when cleaning up a broken bulb, but neither one of us could remember what they were. She brought me my slippers and helped me get them on so I could go back to my room. She had found a bulb anyway - now I am short a bulb.

St. Joseph

On December 16, 2009, Wednesday, I got up at 6:00 am (Temp. 37^oF.) with a poem, Ye Are Gods, forming in my head:

What does any Father want?
But that His children grow
Into adults with proper frames
And know all they can know.
They may inherit all He owns
But He will always be
Father to each one of them
Throughout Eternity.

Some preachers say that "Mormons" think
To make themselves like God,
Yet they themselves say, Christ is God.
The Bible says "We will be like Him".
And "We shall see Him as He is".
As the LORD He said, "Ye are gods"
And confirmed it in His flesh.
Dare we deny His word?

It's not that we have power
To make ourselves divine,
It's just what God has promised us,
It's by His power, not ours.
If it is blasphemy to trust
That what God says is true,
Then we are heretics indeed
To take Him at His word.

I was going to throw my calendar away, as there are so few days left, and because I seldom even look at it. I noticed that it was stained and stuck to the door and I wondered at the cause. I noticed the bottom of my emergency pack was stained, so I opened it out. I found that one of the cans of tomato juice had leaked, and so had the water bottle. I reported it to Winda.
At breakfast we discovered that the TV service was "interrupted". The message read:

It was like that for all the TVs in my end of the house and in the dining room, at least. Winda's TV in the kitchen was working, though. They phoned Comcast about it, and they will send someone out to the house this afternoon.

Emergency Pack Hanging on Door

Talking Watch

After breakfast, I put my clothes from the emergency pack in the laundry, replaced the water bottle with something sturdier, and gave the backpack to Winda, who cleaned it in the sink and hung it in the bathroom to dry.
I downloaded the December 2009 "Ensign" in PDF file. I discovered that I had not downloaded any since July, so I downloaded the rest. The First Presidency Message for December was "Home for Christmas" by President Henry B. Eyring. He said, "What all of us long for in our hearts, at Christmastime and always, is to feel bound together in love with the sweet assurance that it can last forever." Our home is not here in mortality, but with God from whom we came. "As we gather in that heavenly home, we will be surrounded by those who have been forgiven of all sin and who have forgiven each other." but, "We can taste some of that joy now, especially as we remember and celebrate the Savior’s gifts to us." At the last, he said, "I testify that because of Him, you may have an assurance that you can go home not only at Christmastime but also to live forever with a family whom you love and who love each other."
I downloaded the PDF files for the Seminary Student Study Guides, too, and read some of the comments there on Isaiah. I napped to Christmas music on the radio until lunch.
At lunch, the Comcast technician came and found that the ant or amp was unplugged, and got us reconnected.
I added Isaiah 36 and Isaiah 37. Winda brought me my mail, the talking watch I ordered. I set the time and the alarm, and the hourly announcement of the time. It looks like a metal band, but it is a cheap vinyl band. Fortunately, I don't like metal bands. I watched "Moonlight" and "CSI" on TV. After supper, I watched "NCIS". I added Isaiah 37 and Isaiah 39. I watched most of "Spiderman 3". I added Isaiah 40. I watched "Surviving Christmas".

On December 17, 2009, Thursday, I got up at 7:35 am (Temp. 43^oF.). Ed showed up after breakfast. We watched "Cold Mountain" on TV as I added Isaiah 41 and Isaiah 42. After lunch, Ed went out to get his. We watched "CSI" as I added Isaiah 43. The Comcast service in my end of the house kept going off and on, so we switched to watching DVDs. We watched the special features for the making of "The Last Crusade", then watched "The Kingdom of the Crystal Skulls". Ed left at 6:30 pm. I watched "NCIS". I added Isaiah 44 and Isaiah 45.

S.E. Roberts toward Mt. Hood

On December 18, 2009, Friday, 37^th Anniversary of Sandy's death, I got up at 7:15 am (Temp. 45^oF. outside, but 81^oF. in my room). I dressed and packed for Elderplace. After breakfast, I went outside to take photos and wait for my ride. Torian picked me up. I had to transfer to a seat because of a Medical add-on, who it turns out did not have a wheelchair and so my transfer was not necessary. When I got to Elderplace, I took my CBG monitor upstairs and got 150 more of the test strips, since it would be 3 weeks before I would be back due to the holidays being on Friday. I weighed 316.8 lbs again, same as last week. We held our Discussion Group upstairs in the Mt. Bachelor Room as the Deschutes Room and the Library were occupied. I sang Christmas karaoke in the Sandy Room, but only a few songs, as lunch was served 20 minutes before the scheduled time. We had beef (they called it Prime Rib but it looked like roast beef), baked potato, stuffed mushrooms (which I didn't eat), greenbeans, and a roll. After lunch, I sang until 1 pm. Torian got me home a little after 2 pm. No DVDs in the mail yet. I copied my photos to the computer. I added Isaiah 46 and Isaiah 47. My DVDs arrived at 4:48 pm by USPS. After supper, I added Isaiah 48 and Isaiah 49 while watching "NCIS" and "Bones". I watched "Madagascar" while adding Isaiah 50 and Isaiah 51.

On December 19, 2009, Saturday, I got up at 7:30 am (Temp. 46^oF. outside, but 82^oF. in my room). At breakfast, I began watching "Jingle All the Way". I added Isaiah 52 and Isaiah 53. At lunch, I watched the last half of "Home Alone 2". I added Isaiah 54, Isaiah 55, and Isaiah 56. After supper, I added Isaiah 57, Isaiah 58, Isaiah 59, Isaiah 60, Isaiah 61, Isaiah 62, Isaiah 63, Isaiah 64, Isaiah 65, and Isaiah 66.

On December 20, 2009, Sunday, I got up at 6:36 am (Temp. 45^oF. outside, but 80^oF. in my room). I trimmed my eyebrows. I had to wait for someone else to finish a shower before I could shave. I shaved. I thought of the reference to a razor that is hired in Isaiah 7:20 and added a comment there. I also discovered that the chapter links in the Isaiah pages are linked to Song of Solomon. I will need to fix them.
After breakfast, I studied for my Priesthood lesson, "'Praise to the Man': Latter-day Prophets Bear Witness of the Prophet Joseph Smith". The section headings are:

Praise to the Man Who communed with Jehovah Jesus anointed that Prophet and Seer

From the Life of Joseph Smith -

The Saints were given a witness that Brigham Young was Joseph's successor.
Old Testament prophets foretold him.
His own father gave him a blessing.

Joseph Smith was foreordained to his prophetic calling -

"It was decreed in the councils of heaven" - Brigham Young
"Joseph Smith was chosen to stand at the head of the work ..." - Joseph Fielding Smith
"He was among 'the noble and great ones' whom Abraham described" - Ezra Taft Benson

Joseph Smith's First Vision is a fundamental part of our individual testimonies -

"The greatest event ... since the resurrection of the Son of God" - Joseph F. Smith
"Either Joseph Smith did see God ... or Mormonism ... is a myth" - Heber J. Grant
"The appearing of the Father and the Son to Joseph Smith is the foundation of this Church" - David O. McKay
"The First Vision ... is bedrock theology" - Ezra Taft Benson
"it began a new era in this world and laid a foundation for the faith of the children of men" - George Albert Smith

The Prophet Joseph Smith was taught by God and angels -

"He obtained it [intelligence] through the revelations of God" - John Taylor
"The Prophet of God was ministered to by the angels of heaven" - Wilford Woodruff
"So many visited, gave keys, and tutored that 'choice seer' raised up in the latter days" - Howard W. Hunter

The Prophet Joseph Smith was called of God to open the final dispensation and restore the fulness of the gospel -

"[This Church] was not the product of the times. It came as a revelation from God" - Gordon B. Hinckley
"Out of the millions ... the only man, that was called of God, by the voice of God himself, to open up the dispensation ... for the last time" - Joseph F. Smith

The work of Joseph Smith blesses those who have lived on the earth, those who are now living, and those who will yet be born -

"The work in which Joseph Smith was engaged was not confined to this life alone, but it pertains as well to the life to come and to the life that has been" - Joseph F. Smith
"I know that Joseph Smith is and was and everlastingly shall be a prophet of God" - Joseph Fielding Smith

I dressed and packed my bag for Church. I went out front to wait just as Larry called to say he was coming shortly. I sat next to a Sister in a wheelchair, who was sitting where I usually sit. It was announced that Elijah Jones had been born this last week. There were two talks: One by Sis. Sheffield, who talked about how prophets foresaw the birth of Jesus Christ and what it would mean to the world, and the other by Bishop Ipson, who told us to look for that Star that would lead us to service for others. Sunday School was replaced by the Ward Christmas program, and that threw off my meal schedule as I didn't eat my sandwich until I got home. My blood sugar was 117 at that time, so I felt I could do without it. In Priesthood opening, we learned that Br. Belshe's mother had passed away. Someone pointed out that my little green hymnal was lying on the framework under my wheelchair seat. I had gone to the restroom during Sacrament and when I returned to the Chapel, I could not find the hymnal. I went back to the restroom looking for it, but to no avail. I counted it lost, but it had been riding perilously in that place for about an hour and a half. In the Quorum, I led the priesthood lesson that I had studied this morning. I sat in my wheelchair, instead of on the table as usual, At least partly because if I fainted I would not fall - but it was not necessary, I had no dizziness. I ate my sandwich when I got home after checking my blood sugar (it was 82). I checked my online communications and updated my web journal. I fixed all the chapter links in all 66 Isaiah pages. Before supper, I added Jeremiah 1. After supper, I added Jeremiah 2. I watched "Evan Almighty". Larry phoned and confirmed he would pick me up at 6:45 am on Tuesday for the temple. I will have to have something to eat before I go, but I should be home well before lunch. I added Jeremiah 3.

On December 21, 2009, Monday, Winter Solstice, Sandra's Birthday, I got up at 7:40 am (Temp. 49^oF.). At breakfast, I told Margaret that I was going to the temple tomorrow. She asked what we do there. I told her we do ordinances for the dead, that they cannot do for themselves, such as baptism. She asked where that was in the Bible and I looked it up for her. It is in 1 Corinthians 15:29. After breakfast, I checked my online messages, then took a nap. Ed showed up about 9:45 am. We watched "The Gnome-Mobile" on DVD. He left at 11:45 am. It is raining. I added Jeremiah 4. After lunch, I watched "Children of Mistletoe" and "Christmas List" on TV. After supper, I washed my bowl, and set aside my instant oatmeal and a banana for tomorrow's breakfast. I watched "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" on DVD.

Eastern Spires of the Temple, Reflecting Pool, Angel Moroni

On December 22, 2009, Tuesday, I got up at 5:30 am (Temp. 38^oF.). I shaved and packed for the temple. I fixed myself a big bowl of instant oatmeal and a banana for breakfast, then I finished dressing for the temple. I went outside at 6:35 am and began taking photos. Larry picked me up, then he picked up Steve at his place before heading to the temple. I rented my pants and a robe and sash and changed into my temple clothes. I had the same name to be proxy for as last week, though it was probably a different individual as the names come from a family file. Another brother in a wheelchair was in our session (there were 16 participants today), and there were 9 from our Ward. I needed less help with the words this time, though I fumbled what I had thought was the easiest part. After I changed back into my street clothes, it seemed I had time to do some photography. In fact, I made it all around the temple and back to the entrance before the others came out. One stranger pushed me up the hill to the entrance from the fountain area. I think I got some great photos. Sister Hill who had been in the session with us gave me a Christmas bag of candy and nuts. When we dropped Steve off at his place, he gave me a card, with a photo of his family, and a Martinelli's cider wrapped in a Christmas towel. After I got home (the Music lady was just leaving), I visited with Martha and Margaret before going to my room to unpack. I copied my photos to the computer. After lunch, I took a nap. When I got up about 2 pm, I edited my photos. My Sister phoned to say that if I could get down to Keizer, she would see that I got home on Christmas Day. I phoned my home teacher, after getting his correct number, and getting his personal cell number from his wife. He said that he thought he could do it tomorrow afternoon, though he still had to discuss it with his wife. At supper, Willy came in and announced he wanted gloves for Christmas (apparently, it was cold outside). After supper, I easily found my pair of blue gloves (he said it was his favorite color) and gave them to him. I began to pack my traveling bag. I printed up the "Teachings for Our Times" lesson to study for next Sunday's Priesthood meeting. I chatted with both my daughter and Erin online before going to bed.

My Sister and my Mom

On December 23, 2009, Wednesday, Joseph Smith's Birthday, I got up at 7:40 am (Temp. 32^oF.), after waking up at 5 am and having trouble sleeping afterward. I took photos of the gifts I received yesterday. After breakfast, I went out front and took some photos. Everything was frosty. I added Gmail and Facebook watcher gadgets to my Google sidebar. I found my weekend fish feeder blocks and fed my fish for the next few days. Br. Hill phoned to see that I had somewhere to spend Christmas. I tried sending the Hills sone temple photos and succeeded after getting his new email address from him. I sorted out the meds I would need for the trip. After lunch, I gave my home teacher a call. He said that he would be picking me up about 6 pm tonight. Ed came by and we watched the "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" DVD together. Ed left before supper. After supper, I went outside and took a photo of the lights of the house across the street and the moon shining through the fog. At 6 pm, Dan and his son-in-law Chris picked me up to take me to Keizer. It was foggy, and in in Damascus we encountered backed up traffic. Dan took a side road and came to I-205 via Foster Road. When we got to Keizer we ended up on Lockhaven instead of Chemawa. He used his GPS to find Chemawa Rd, then we found Becky's house easily enought. We arrived at 7:38 pm. I watched a recorded showing of "Sing Off" with Becky, Amy, and for a while Mom. I went to bed at 10:30 pm on the futon in the living room.

Lynnette and Patrick

Playing "Save Doctor Lucky"

Amy the Official Present Presenter

On December 24, 2009, Thursday, Christmas Eve, I slept until 3:45 am and woke with my heart racing. I woke againg about 5:30 am, and got up at 7:30 am with at least 8 hours of sleep. My CBG was 123. I read scripture passages on the birth of Christ in Isaiah, Micah, Matthew, and 3 Nephi. I visited with Becky as she fixed pancakes for breakfast. I had four with butter and a banana. I took photos. Mom showed me her room. Jesús was singing in his room. Becky tried to find a free CD labelng software as advertised with the CD labels that she bought. She found she had software that served the purpose on her computer. Mom gave me four music CDs, Christian and Christmas. I visited with Mom and Becky. I looked at some of Mom's books that she had gotten for Dad: A Bible Atlas and All the Apostles in the Bible. We had pizza and salad for lunch. We watched "Firehouse Dog" on TV. Ernie and Gary arrived about 1:30 pm. We played "Swipe". Patrick, Lynnette, and Kholby arrived at 3:20 pm. We played "Save Doctor Lucky". Jim and Debbie arrived with some of our supper at 4:30 pm. Horacio got home in time for supper at 5:15 pm. Mom had made her potato salad and Jim had brought the deviled eggs. Those two things were my favorites, and I went back for seconds even though I didn't need more food. After supper, we opened presents between 6 and 7 pm. Amy passed out the presents, starting with the cards. Mom gave me a card with a twenty dollar bill in it. I told her it would come in very handy when I needed it to eat lunch at the temple next Tuesday. I got a Christmas music CD from Jesús that he recorded himself. Ernie gave me four J.R.R. Tolkien books to read: "The Children of Húrin", The Legend of Sigurd and Gudrún", "The Shaping of Middle Earth", and "The Tolkien Reader". Patrick's family gave me a Holiday sampler of sausage and crackers. Jim and Debby gave me Chex Party Mix in a sealable bowl. Becky's family gave me a blue and grey "McNary Music" scarf, that will go well with my houndstooth wool poncho, and some sugar free hard candy. Ernie, Gary, Patrick, Lynnette, Horacio, Becky, Jesús, and I played a combination of "Munchkin Booty" and "Munchkin Impossible" until midnight. Horacio won.

Amy is a truly happy camper

Mt Hood on my way Home

On December 25, 2009, Friday, Christmas Day, After midnight, Amy and Jesús opened more presents. Amy got a karaoke machine and four karaoke CD-Gs. Until 3 pm when Ernie and Gary went home, It was mostly the adults who were using her machine. Then she and her Dad sang to it while I laid down on a recliner. At 4 pm, when they went to bed, I moved to the fúton. I woke once at 7:30 am, then again at 9 am when I got up. No one else seemed to be up, but Mom soon came out and invited me to her apartment to visit. She gave me cold cereal, milk, Jell-O salad, and a banana for breakfast. Becky showed up at 10:30 am. I finished the packing of my bag. When Becky was ready, we headed out for Portland at 11:00 am. We made a stop along I-205 to get gas and for a rest stop for me. We arrived at my place by 12:30 pm. I introduced Becky to the residents and to Tess and showed her my room. I even demonstrated my karaoke machine. After she left, Tess fixed me lunch. I showed the gifts I got from my family. At 1:15 pm, Winda returned from shopping. She gave us our gifts. I got 2 blue 4X shirts and a bright blue 3XL sweatshirt. They will all go well with my new scarf. We each also got a 2010 calendar. I put on one new shirt and the sweatshirt. I copied my photos to the computer. Ed showed up and we listened to Jesús' Christmas CD. We watched the last part of "Night in the Museum" and then "Bones" on TV. At supper, I shared my Martinelli's Sparkling Cider with the other residents. Ed left shortly after supper as he has to work tonight. I updated my web journal, from the handwritten account I made while I was away. I continued to watch "Bones", followed by "The Librarian: Quest for the Spear". I edited my photos and added photos to my web journal.

On December 26, 2009, Saturday, Elaine's Birthday, Starting about 1 am, I had to go often to the bathroom with a flushing diarrhea. After 6:30 am, I was able to get a little sleep. Between breakfast and lunch, I slept pretty well. At lunch, we watched "Annie". I ordered a Christmas karaoke CDG with 19 different songs from Amazon.com through the Mcnarychoirs.com site. I now have $1.50 left in the bank. I watched the last part of "King Kong". I watched "NCIS".

On December 27, 2009, Sunday, I guess I could say I "got up" about 6 am, though I only got maybe two hours' sleep after 11:30 pm last night. It was diarrhea again. I began reading "The Articles of Faith" by James E. Talmage (not for the first time). I added a new web page for the first three months of 2010. I checked my messages online. Between breakfast and lunch, I napped while listening to BYU TV. I didn't go to Church due to the diarrhea. After lunch, I watched "Our Gang". Then I listened to differnt speakers on BYU TV, including President Monson who told of all the prophets he knew during his life. Larry has gotten a Priesthood manual for me and will give it to me on Tuesday. After supper, I watched "The Librarian: The Curse of the Judas Chalice".

On December 28, 2009, Monday, Patty's Birthday, I got up at 7:45 am. Only had to go to the restroom once at 3:30 am, but am still diarrhetic. The weatherman said that today will be the last dry day of the year. The wind has finally calmed down. After breakfast, I checked my online messages, posted 20 of my Christmas photos on Facebook, and took a short nap. I slept most of the afternoon. After supper, I talked to my doctor on the phone. She said to quit taking my docusate sodium which I haven't taken since April 10th when she told me I could stip taking it, but it is still on my records. She will send me some medication for my diarrhea tomorrow. Larry phoned. I told him I cannot go with them to the temple tomorrow. They are going to have lunch at the temple then do baptisms for the dead. We discussed the temple photos I posted on Facebook and other things. I watched "NCIS".

The house across the street

Snow falling in the street light

On December 29, 2009, Tuesday, With the diarrhea problem it was the worst night so far. I got maybe an hour's sleep all night. After breakfast, I was able to get some short naps in before lunch. At lunch I received my medication, Loperamide HCL. I took one after reading the instructions and plan to take one every 6 hours unless the problem goes away. After lunch, I went back to bed for more rest, not having had a bout of diarrhea since just after breakfast. I napped until almost 4 pm. Before supper, I added Jeremiah 5 and Jeremiah 6. When I went to supper, I discovered it was snowing. Winda said it had been snowing for a while. This morning, the weathermen said nothing about a chance of snow in our area, only north and west of Portland. I went to the front door and took photos. No signs of diarrhea since this morning. I shared my snow photos on Facebook. My daughter's boyfriend is home from the Army. I watched "Bones" and "A Grandpa for Christmas". At 10:20 pm, I took another Loperamide.

On December 30, 2009, Wednesday, I took my third Loperamide at 5:30 am after changing to another pair of pants. I got up at 7:45 pm. Ed showed up while I was still at the breakfast table. We watched "Termination Point" on SyFy. Then Ed went home. I took my fourth Loperamide at 11:30 am. Winda slipped on water in Willy's room from melted snow from his power chair. I felt a bit nauseus at lunch and ate half a muffin and drank my orange juice. Then I went to my room and tried to sleep. I got some sleep. At 3:15 pm, Winda brought me my mail. I got the Christmas karaoke CDG I had ordered. I sang karaoke until supper. At supper, I could only eat the banana bread and juice. Winda gave me 6 large feminine napkins which I started to wear (one at a time) immediately. I went to bed to get some rest. At 10:30pm, I managed a bite from a Blueberry bagel.

[blue moon, full moon] On December 31, 2009, Thursday, New Year's Eve , The feminine napkins did a great job protecting my clothing and allowing me to get some rest. I got up about 7:00 am. I checked my online messages. I checked my bank balance. I found I was overdrawn by $1.50 Because of an unknown something taking money out of my account every month. This month they increased it. Therefore, I also got a $35 overdraft charge. I had oatmeal and an egg sandwich for breakfast. Ed showed up while I was still at the table. We watched several Thrre Stooges movies. Elderplace had me picked up at 11:30 am in a car with a ramp out the side that was too narrow for my chair. We arrived at noon after most had eaten their lunch. I chose the Tuna Noodle Casserole. I weighed 311.4 lbs. Sana had me produce a stool sample and go up to her office and wait. She took my blood pressure, which was low. Dr. Tierney discussed my situation. She decided to discontinue my furosemide temporarily along with most of my potassium. She said I might be lactose intolerant and that my dizziness when I stand is probably due to my low blood pressure. She said I was probably dehydrated. Torian drove me home by 3 pm.