All Good Things

For many years Barb had a plaque on the door from the house into the garage. It said, “Life is what happens while you’re making other plans.” And so it is. Well, life happened on Father’s day and we’re having to rethink those other plans.

Most of you know about Barb’s accident, the resulting injury, and the surgery. She is making remarkable progress but her main focus must needs be on recovery and in the present circumstances that is going to require a single-mindedness of purpose that will preclude some of the things that have been taken for granted in the past. I hope you will bear with me for a bit as I look back.

Some of you will remember close to ten years ago sitting around a table in Rachael’s apartment. We felt warmth in each others company but were feeling a little bereft, too. We had lost a connection to a happy and loving past and there seemed to be a void ahead of us. Someone, I don’t really remember who, said, “What about the newsletter?” I remember a long pause as we felt one more loss sink in. I really can’t say what prompted me but I allowed as how perhaps Barb and I could do it – and then in a more rational moment suggested monthly, not weekly. I’ve often wondered what spirit tapped me on the shoulder and whispered in my ear. And so began a journey for Barb and me; from that evening in 1996 to the present. I confess that I had no conception of the work producing a newsletter would entail for Barb, and to a much lesser degree to me. I think that I can honestly say that even if I could have clearly foreseen it, I would have done the same thing.

In the beginning we attempted to pretty much duplicate what Rachael had done, even to including those perfectly awful (but often funny) Ole and Lena jokes. Gradually, though, we found our own voice. From the first, it was Barb who carried most of the load. She put e-mails in date order, made copious notes of telephone conversations, jotted down reminders, and in every way pulled together the basic material for each month. Then, one day she would sit down at the key board and start putting it all down in a first draft. I’d do a second draft, inserting some new material on occasion, but mostly being a bit tongue-in-cheek and a little smart ass. A lot of the off-the-wall openings were joint efforts from Barb and me. The lame ones were mostly mine. We usually went through about four drafts and then Barb would say, “I think we’ve got it”. In the early days, we then addressed envelopes, folded and stamped and sent them on their way. We’ve kept the originals – all ten years worth – in binders. As technology advanced we mailed fewer and fewer and now it’s all email. It has been a labor of love, but a labor none-the-less.

For the present Barbie just isn’t comfortable sitting at the key board and there are other things that I need to concentrate on for the present. Truth to tell, my heart wouldn’t be in it right now anyway.

Barb and I have thought about a pause, for maybe a couple of months. Realistically, though, the pause would grow to three months, then four, and the newsletter would sort of fade away, like MacArthur’s old soldier. Neither Barb nor I want that to happen. I have to be honest and say that we have both remarked of late that maybe the time was approaching when we’d want to give it up. Maybe fate has intervened. We could ask if there is someone out there who would like to take up the torch but reality intrudes and we know that those who might be able to pick it up have myriad obligations and probably wouldn’t welcome one more. A Lerschen Sister’s Blog has been suggested but I frankly don’t have the technological know how to know if that is even feasible, and certainly I don’t have the vaguest idea of how to accomplish it even if it is feasible.

So, it seems that we are coming to the end of publication. We may try to produce one more, a sort of valedictory issue. We’ll see, over the next few weeks. Meantime, if any of you out there can come up with a brilliant idea for continuation or have a burning desire to assume the mantle of family reporter, sing out. We’ll even provide you with used Ole and Lena joke books. Let me assure one and all, we would not have missed doing the newsletter for the world. It has been an enriching and fulfilling experience.

With much love,
Walt

P.S. Let us hear from you.......

Vol. 11, No. 5

Oye Vay, ‘tis the end of May, I can’t think of what to say, and the newsletter is due today! So we’ll just jump right in with news of our kin. Any more of this would be a sin, so let’s begin. (Author prefers to remain anonymous.)

The Sullivan/Smith Families: The summer yard maintenance program is in full force, with Bob mowing and trimming their lawn to keep it looking like a park. Peg and Bob continue their regimen of 2 walks a day and we all continue to be impressed by their fortitude. All the patio furniture and plants have been moved back out to the patio for the summer thanks to Grandson, Spencer. He came over one day and, as part of a school project to help the “elderly in a specific situation,” he helped them with lots of the heavier work and also helped pick out and plant some flowers. Elderly Walt wishes they had a program like that down here.
Terry meets himself coming and going these days – between the HPB in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. Evidently the city of Cedar Rapids loves HPB so much that there is so much stock right now that they are going to have a tent sale to get rid of it all. An impressive beginning for the new store.
Mike had to be out of town for a few days to do the announcing for a series of Division Two College Elimination Tournaments and Darcy had to be out of town at the same time, on business, so Peg and Bob drove up to Mankato and keep Heather company while her folks were gone. Heather thought the whole thing was cool.
Mike, Darcy and Heather are now the proud owners of yet another kitty (approximately 8 - 9 months old), to go with the one they already have (Cheerio). The new kitty is gold and white. Heather describes him as longhaired and fluffy. After a search for the perfect name they decided on “Kirby,” after Kirby Puckett a particular favorite of hers. Cheerio’s reaction to this newcomer is less than thrilled. Mega ticked would probably cover it.
Peggy and Tim are dog sitting a pug puppy for a friend who had surgery on her foot. Evidently their pug, Boris has had an extra strut in his strut since she arrived. Showing off for the fair sex – if a Pug could ever be called “fair”.
Peggy drove Spencer and her mother-in-law to Albia, Iowa over the Memorial Day Weekend, to visit the graves of many of the relatives. She is also busily planning another vacation to Yellowstone Park in July and this time Tim will be able to get off work so he’ll go along.
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The Peters/Baldwin Families: Over in Switzerland, Jim is recovering from his recent knee surgery and can hardly wait to get back to some serious fishing. Too bad he and Matt live so far apart! The two together could terrorize an entire lake. Matt has been having wonderful luck with walleyes this spring in Lake Waconia, so Marilynn and Rod are having some wonderful fish fries.
Elmer and Laura are helping their daughter, E.J., get settled in her new house. They are really enjoying playing house and E.J. is really enjoying the number of helping hands.
Marilynn and Rod, being the flexible people they are, spent a few days at David and Julie’s this month. Seems David was in Florida on business and Julie had plans to join him there. Her mother (in Iowa), who was supposed to come up and watch the kids, wasn’t feeling well so Marilynn and Rod were called to the duty. Marilynn reports that these kids are the best-behaved and polite kids she knows. That may be the first time I have ever used the words behaved, polite, and kids, in the same sentence.
David bought Julie an adorable golden/chow mix puppy for their anniversary this year. The whole family considered a name for the puppy and finally decided on “Murphy.” Marilynn refers to him as their Grand dog.” David has started a blog, to follow his antics. You can follow the adventures of Murphy Peters at http://www.murphypeters.blogspot.com/. It is amazing how communicative canines have become in the age of computers!? They even took him with them when they drove to Door County, Wisconsin for the Memorial Day Weekend. I guess he is a real chick magnet.
Baby sister Marilynn, finally made the decision and will undergo back surgery on June 7 at Abbott Hospital for spondylolisthesis. Go ahead, try to pronounce it!! She will be hospitalized for 4-5 days and then may go to a rehabilitation place in Waconia for a while, before she goes home. Her surgeon was interested in what seems to be the genetic tendency in our family for back problems (a dubious honor, at best!). He said our family would make for a good ‘study’ – but we already knew that, didn’t we! She got lots of flowers planted, so she should be able to sit back and enjoy them while she recuperates.
Jennifer has made arrangements for Jack to go to day care for a while after Marilynn’s surgery. She may be superhuman, but there is only so much she can do, and she sure doesn’t need an active, curious almost 4-year old during her recovery..
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The Arnold Families: Concluding the latest saga about grandson Andrew, which we just started in last month’s newsletter: He ended up having 2-1/2 hours of surgery at Texas Children’s Hospital to remove the morsel of food that was caught in his esophagus. The doctor told Lisa that it was among the most difficult surgeries of that type that he has ever had to perform. Andrew stayed the night at the hospital and, of course, Lisa stayed with him. He understands a little better how important it is (and will be) that he pays attention to chewing thoroughly and swallowing carefully.
Paul and Laura passed through Houston on their way back to San Antonio and reported having a ‘smashing’ good time on their 4-day cruise out of Galveston. No glitches. They managed to embark and disembark with no problems. Of course they all have passports, which helps a lot. They enjoyed white sand beaches in Mexico, sailing on an underground river, and the high point was swimming with dolphins, which the kiddos said was AWESOME.
On shipboard, they had good food, and only one slightly rough day, weather-wise. No unhappy tummies at all. Bingo seems to be their game. Laura won on one card; Paul won on one card, and Paul also won the grand prize for the evening.
The children think that this hotel on the water is way cool and Laura M. has her sights set on Hawaii. A young lady who knows what she wants.
Mark and Lisa had a delightful semi-vacation this month. It seems the members of the band at Michael and Andrew’s high school go on a big end-of-year trip every couple of years – and this was the year to go to Orlando! Needless to say, there was lots of excitement in the air. Mark and Lisa ‘volunteered’ to be among the chaperones for those rowdy kids so they could all go. Talk about brave! When these bands (from schools all over the country) go to Disney World they march either in the parade or perform on the stage. This year they performed on the stage. They came home happy and sleep deprived.
Michael also recently experienced one of those seminal moments in a young person’s life, attending the Senior Prom. He rented a tux; several couples went together and rented a limousine, the whole ‘nine yards.’ He graduated from high school on May 26 – an event we couldn’t miss. It’s hard to believe! There were something like 600 in his graduating class. Paul (who is Michael’s godfather) and David drove over for the graduation and stayed a couple of days. Rob had Sam here for the weekend, so the boys had a great time together. We had a Talisman marathon going over here. Not only for Sam and David, but for Paul and Rob as well.
Barb was due to renew her driver’s license this year and when she went in to the DPS she failed the eye exam! She was one seriously unimpressed person! She hadn’t worn any glasses at all for over 2 years so it was a mighty blow. Off to the ophthalmologist she went for an exam and an RX for glasses. The new glasses did the trick and she is once again licensed to brave the traffic in Houston!
Marilynn and Rod brought their own special rays of sunshine to Houston over the Memorial Day Weekend and made our day(s)! It was so good to see them. Since we won’t be going to Minnesota this summer, it was very special. I was amazed at how well Marilynn did, considering the problems she is having with her back and her upcoming surgery. We appreciated their visit so much. They are truly a tonic for us. Much talk, lots of laughing, and just generally a great time.
Mark and Lisa hosted a Texas style barbecue in honor of their visit. Lots of fun and a chance for them to share some special time together Paul stayed over for that too. The beer flowed like….Beer.
We were very sorry to see them leave.
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The Lerschen/Foss Families:
Mary Pat will be leaving in mid-June for her much anticipated return to Africa. She is leading a pretty good-sized group this year and should have a wonderful time.
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IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
JUNE
06/01/85 Paul and Laura Arnold’s wedding anniversary
06/08/34 Barbara Arnold’s 21st Birthday
(If I’m going to write this newsletter, I can be any age I want!!)
06/14/80 Laura and Elmer Baldwin’s wedding anniversary
06/20/39 Mary Pat Foss
06/25/61 Lisa Kay Arnold
06/27/65 Holly Christine Peters

JULY
07/01/89 Brian and Joellen Peters’ wedding anniversary
07/03/63 Julie Peters
07/07/64 Thomas Kenneth Peters
07/10/30 Marguerite Jeanne Sullivan
07/11/04 Anniversary of Michael Lerschen’s death at age 17
07/16/86 Spencer Bailly Smith
07/19/78 Jennifer Andrea Peters
07/24/76 Jim and Barbara Lerschen’s wedding anniversary
07/25/65 Patricia Foss Matusz

Vol. 11, No. 4

April Showers bring May flowers and an assortment of broken bones, it seems. Read on, for a run-down on those cast-clad youngsters with black clouds over their heads. On a happier (and tastier) note, lots of chocolate bunnies were sacrificed at the altars of the Church of Perpetual Chocolate Lovers – the ears first, of course, in accordance with accepted ritual.

The Sullivan/Smith Families: The month of April has been no lady, with lots of nasty storms, rumbling thunder, hail, and tornadoes snorting around the mid-section of the country. Peg and Bob have heard enough warning sirens to last them a lifetime and are still a little twitchy from all that excitement. At least they have warnings! Of course, interspersed with all of this has been some gorgeous spring weather – the flowers and trees are in bloom, so all is not lost.
Unfortunately, the weather isn’t cooperating this weekend. It is the onset of the famous Drake University Relays and it looks like it will be a wash. Contestants from all states and some foreign countries came to Des Moines to show their talent and expertise. Well, maybe next year? In the meantime, they are taking refuge in the malls.
Since Peg has lost an appreciable amount of weight (primarily to help minimize back pain and make walking easier) she indulged in buying a few new things. She loves the ‘girlie’ clothes that are popular this spring – Terry thinks they look like underwear…..
Terry survived the re-do of his store and is pleased with the results. Our understanding is that they will be moving to a new location (near the Jordan Creek Mall) in a couple of years, when their present lease expires. They did install a new computer register system. It will probably take a while to get all the bugs worked out and have everyone proficient on it. The whole team celebrated with dinner at The Outback when the project was finished. He’s also made a trip or two to the HPB home office in Dallas for manager’s meetings. He really likes Dallas and plays tourist when he is there.
Marilynn and Rod surprised Peg and Bob the weekend before Easter with a quick visit to WDM. Needless to say, Marilynn had to check out the Half Price Book Store. She approved of the re-do and also found lots of books for Jack and other goodies to take home. Terry gave them a box to take on the plane and called them “high maintenance customers.” Rod took some great pictures of them – a real treasure. The plane they flew on only held about 40+ passengers and they got the last two seats on the return flight to Mpls.
And what’s this we hear about the Master of the House being caught with two different shoes on recently out in public – one black and shabby, with a hole in the bottom, and one that is newer and is dark maroon. We thought only OLD people did things like that – but maybe we’re mistaken?
Easter was celebrated at Peggy and Tim’s house, complete with all the fixins’. Peg said that Peggy had Buppa’s dining room table decorated so nicely.
And in the Sullivan house, it was Peg who took the prize for a broken bone this month. They had just dropped Spencer off for a class project and were leaving the building. Peg says she ran into “the clearest glass panel you have ever seen” - or not seen as the case may be. According to the ENT doc she finally saw, SEVERAL BONES IN HER NOSE WERE BROKEN! She is the walking wounded right now, trying to soldier through the pain and discomfort and worrying about ending up with a pirate’s hook. Conjures up an image, doesn’t it.
****************************************** The ice has gone out on the lake, and the lake is filling up with boats and very expectant fishermen. Matt went all the way in to Canada recently to fish. He brought home some fresh trout for Rod and Marilynn and said each filet probably cost him $200, with all the expenses. Reminds me of what Dad used to say when he would go hunting for duck and pheasant. I guess all hobbies are expensive, one way or the other.
And speaking of kids who come up with dandies, Jack came up with a beaut the other day. Rod, Marilynn, and Jack were riding in the car and Jack announced, “Quit talking please, I need some attention.” With the exposure he has had to computers, he is getting quite conversant – for an almost 4 year old. He had started asking for specific websites. and would they please bookmark it for him. Scary! He even has Winnie the Pooh software and a Winnie the Pooh mouse, which he loves.
Easter found the majority of the Peters’ clan at Laura and Elmer’s house on the lake. Lots of goodies to eat (besides chocolate bunnies) and an Easter Egg hunt for Jack, compliments of Jenny. David and Julie’s son, Michael, is especially good with Jack. One of those sweet moments occurred that day when Marilynn observed the two of them sitting on the hill at Elmer and Laura’s, looking at the lake. Michael put his arm around Jack and Jack put his arm around Michael. Pretty special.
Rod and Jack went to one of Jack’s classes recently – called “Daddy and Me Tool Time.” I wonder which one had more fun! And Rod continues to be the #1 repairman for computers among friends, family and school. I don’t know how he does it! Spring is finally far enough along that Marilynn was able to get her hands in the dirt a bit, and planted a bunch of bulbs and flowers. She was in her element.
On the ‘what’s the rest of the family doing front’ Laura and Elmer spent a week in Tahiti; and Jim, Jeanne and the boys spent a week in Rome and vicinity (plus Pisa). They visited several of Jeanne’s relatives. That family will be so multi-lingual by the time they return to the states it is going to be amazing!
Also at the Baldwin household, there is big news that E.J. bought a house in St. Louis Park, a cape cod style, 3 bdrm, A/C, etc. It isn’t far from Chris’s high school (Benilde). She had been looking for a little while. The house is in “Ready to Move In” condition, so there won’t be much to do – maybe a little painting. She will probably move in in May. Chris is on the high school track team and the traveling soccer team, so he keeps very busy. Oldest son, Steve, remodeled the Trickwood Store out in Washington. You can check out the new design on his store website, http://www.tricksood.com/. He definitely got the artist gene – he did all the paintings himself.
David, Julie and the kids, along with Julie’s mom, went to Chicago for Spring Break. Somewhere along in this time frame we understand that their son, Michael, BROKE HIS ARM. Ah, teenage boys.
Jenny had to make a trip up to Hibbing this month for a presentation, so Jack got to stay with Papa Bear and Nana for a couple extra nights. He is always so excited to see his mommy when she comes home. Must warm the cockles of her heart.
For those who may need or want it, Ed Peters has changed his e-mail address. It is as follows:
Edward.peters@audatex.com.
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The Arnold Families: Barb’s saga this month revolves around her knee – the right one, to be precise. Seems things are amiss in there. Too complicated to go into, and too much medical jargon, but suffice to say I am going to try a series of injections of Hyalgan. That ought to be a lot of fun! They mentioned the words ‘knee replacement’ but that is sort of a ‘when hell freezes over’ option. At my age, I don’t think I’d even get my money’s worth. Walt is fine, being a wonderful chauffeur as I go from doctor to x-ray to MRI, to an orthopedic doctor, ad infinitum.
Jim Peters should be able to identify with some of this. He injured his knee while in Zermatt, and will have surgery shortly to repair the damage.
Over at Mark and Lisa’s they have their big church bazaar this weekend and, as always, they will be working at the hamburger booth – one of the most popular food concessions, so they keep busy. Michael will be going to the prom next weekend and Andrew is nursing a cast on his right arm. The day before Easter he fell while swinging on the monkey bars at the park and BROKE HIS RIGHT ARM IN TWO PLACES. He chose a red cast (a boy after my own heart). And of course he is right-handed. So needless to say, we postponed any kind of family get-together for Easter. Took some gifts out to the boys and commiserated with Andrew. And right now he is on his way to Texas Children’s Hospital in an ambulance! Seems he got a piece of food stuck in his esophagus and can’t get it out. With all the problems they have had with his esophagus, it quickly became an emergency. We’ll keep you posted.
Paul and Laura and kiddos are on the high seas even as I type, on a 4-day cruise out of Galveston. The idea of a cruise in lieu of a bonus was floated to the entire office staff several months ago and 100% of the group approved of it. The group includes the entire office staff at Dr. Laura’s practice – the docs, nurses, support staff, insurance people, etc. Quite a bunch. Paul called us from onboard the cruise ship before they left and informed us that when Laura Marguerite was asked about her opinion of the ship, the amenities, etc., she gave an enthusiastic two thumbs up. David’s reaction was a more reserved, “AWESOME!”
Rob’s son, Sam started taking guitar lessons only to have them come to a screeching halt when he BROKE HIS THUMB while playing basketball.
And here endeth the epistle on why orthopods adore teen-age males – they’re so good for the income!!
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The Lerschen/Foss Families: We understand that Jim has a new e-mail address. Please send it, so I can include it in the next newsletter.
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IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
MAY
05/01/92 Michael David Peters
05/02/57 Terrence Robert Sullivan
05/05/98 Robert Julius Pinczes, Jr.
05/06/91 Dominick Paul Peters
05/15/63 Paul Steven Arnold
05/19/54 Michael Kevin Sullivan
05/21/88 David and Julie Peters’ wedding anniversary
05/28/83 Elisabeth Joan (EJ) Baldwin

JUNE
06/01/85 Paul and Laura Arnold’s wedding anniversary (21)
06/08/1934 Barbara Arnold’s 21st birthday (again)
06/14/80 Laura and Elmer Baldwin’s wedding anniversary (26)
06/20/39 Mary Pat Foss
06/25/61 Lisa Kay Arnold
06/27/65 Holly Christine Peters
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NEW DEFINITION: (Compliments of Peg and Terry). Fortunately or unfortunately, I think we are all familiar with centipedes (those ugly beasties with furry legs, that run very fast -- actually I would probably run that fast if I had that many legs!) Anyway, one was found in Peg and Bob’s house recently and Terry refers to them as Wall Dogs – since he thinks they are as big as dogs. That was a new definition for us. When Marilynn was just a little girl she saw one in the sink at 5520 and went and told our Mom and Dad there was a ‘stampede’ in the sink. Now I need a sassy definition for spiders that jump. We have them down here and I don’t like them A WHOLE LOT!

Vol. 11, No. 3

And the sound of hacking, coughing, sneezing, and snuffling is heard in the land. Old Flu Bug done got hold of a bunch of folks, mostly of the child persuasion but a few adult types succumbed too. Listing individuals would read like a family tree!!
The Sullivan/Smith Families: When Peg (a/k/a Big Sister” in her e-mails) sets her mind to do something, get out of the way! She decided last year that she was too ‘fat’ (this from the Lerschen sister who is the skinniest of the lot of us). She has been dieting quite religiously – talk about a strong will! She has now lost so much weight that she could get out all her ‘old’ clothes (from when she was a couple of sizes smaller) and try them all on. Basically it is like finding a new wardrobe. She did treat herself to a couple of new tops. Both Bob and Terry are now complaining that she is too thin. I guess you can’t please everyone.

Peg and Bob’s friend, Darrell, came down to visit a couple of times. Among other things (other than playing golf with Bob), he is interested in booking a band for the Senior Golf Tournament in Des Moines in June.

The Sullivan clan survived the Iowa “March Madness” basketball tournaments and the influx of young people. They think the term “March Madness” was coined for the Iowa fans.

Don’t know how much traveling Mike Sullivan is doing these days in his job. I understand even he succumbed to a bug while he was in Grand Forks, ND recently.

Peg has put away her St. Patrick’s Day decorations and has put up all the bunny figurines and other Easter-type decorations, in preparation for April 16. I’m laying low in the weeds here - waiting to see who we’ll have over, before I commit to that.

The Peters/Baldwin Families: Marilynn and Rod saw the arrival of the Queen Mary 2 in Honolulu before they had to close up the suitcases and head back to MN. The weather wasn’t quite as cooperative as it had been in years past – lots of rain. At least it wasn’t the frozen variety of precip so they’re still ahead of the game!! They hope to go back next March, and Teresa hopes to go, too!

It’s a good thing that one or another of their kids still lives in the family manse. Ed reported a leak had developed in the plumbing in the main bathroom (under the sink) while they were in Hawaii. So it was Ed to the rescue – got what was needed at the hardware store and did the repair. Can you imagine what it might have looked like if he hadn’t been there?!

Elmer and Laura were in for a surprise when they went out to the farm to check on it after their return from Hawaii. Seems the pipes (for the hot water heater) had frozen and burst at the farm. Lots of work, but fortunately they have insurance. They couldn’t run the furnace with the pipes broken, so they took some heaters out there to defrost the pipes.

On the Jack front, he keeps them hopping. Marilynn accompanied him to his early development class one day and the teacher had the kids stomping around and growling like dinosaurs. Marilynn reports he was in his element. And in the “out of the mouths of babes” department: recently Marilynn ruffled his hair was she walked by. Jack looked up at her and said, “What can I do for you handsome?” Once he gets the gender right, he’ll be all set.

All the Peters progeny in the area got together to celebrate Rod’s birthday this month. Among other things, his kids gave him a T-shirt and coffee mug that says “Geek Squad.” We think he’s a wonder.

Rod tried to fly to Austin for the Live Oak Brewery meeting (they have some stock in the company). In spite of being given a boarding pass, the plane was full – so he wasn’t able to make the flight.

They had an art show at the International school where Teresa teaches and she was in her element. She got lots of praise for what she has accomplished with the students.

The family enjoyed one of Rod’s famous waffle breakfasts recently. Evidently Rod found a waffle maker that was more to his liking, so he is back in business – and the family is thrilled. It is a real experience. They offer every condiment known to modern man. J Having experienced it, we can only sigh and wish we’d been there.

Matt did his fair share of ice fishing up north this month and is now working at a sports show in the cities.
Over in Switzerland, the Jim Peters family enjoyed a vacation at Zermatt. Poor weather forced them off the slopes after a couple of days and onto the hockey rink, where they played a fierce pick-up hockey game with the other family on the ice who, they found out, were also named Peters. Small world, isn’t it! Jim wrenched his knee while playing hockey and it looks like he will have some repair work done to his ACL and menisci.

Dominick appeared in the school production of “West Side Story” (playing Chino, one of the sharks). Didn’t that character shoot Tony??

The Arnold Families: Walt and Barb are catching up on all the Oscar-nominated movies that we DIDIN’T see in the theater. We have seen “Walk the Line” (even Barb’s toe was tapping with that music); and “North Country” – a grim and gritty movie about life in the open pit mines of northern Minnesota. Next on the agenda is “Capote.” Barb is being a good sport with that one – he is one of Walt’s favorite writers.

Our San Antonio contingent came over to Houston to visit for a few days during the kid’s spring break. Even Dr. Laura was able to come and we were so pleased. And she endeared herself even more to Walt when she gave him a book of the collection of short stories by Truman Capote.
They really speak the same \nlanguage when it comes to books. \n\nThey also brought along the newest member of their \nfamily, Ace the baby Beagle. He’s \nstill at a cute age (4 months). \nEveryone enjoyed him and he behaved himself very well, thankfully. \nWe had a big family get together for a brisket \ndinner. I have finally found a \nrecipe for brisket that doesn’t drown it in barbecue sauce. Not half bad. The boys pitched in to help clean up \nafterwards. That was a \ngodsend!\n \nWe also have a cat in residence – named Kero, and owned by Rob. It was interesting to see the two \nanimals sort of size each other up. \nFortunately, all went well. \n\n \nThe high point of their visit was a story that Paul told us about Laura \nMarguerite. It seems that they have \nbeen studying countries of the world in their Kindergarten class. The previous week they had been studying \nabout Italy and the teacher told them the story about “SOME GUY WHO PAINTED \nTHE 16TH CHAPEL (!) ON HIS BACK.” Then to illustrate how \ndifficult this might be, the teacher had all the kids lie down on the floor \nunder their desks, attach paper to the underside of the desk and draw on \nit. When Paul tried to correct her, \nshe was quite insistent that it was the 16th Chapel. \n",1]
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They really speak the same language when it comes to books.

They also brought along the newest member of their family, Ace the baby Beagle. He’s still at a cute age (4 months). Everyone enjoyed him and he behaved himself very well, thankfully.

We had a big family get together for a brisket dinner. I have finally found a recipe for brisket that doesn’t drown it in barbecue sauce. Not half bad. The boys pitched in to help clean up afterwards. That was a godsend!

We also have a cat in residence – named Kero, and owned by Rob. It was interesting to see the two animals sort of size each other up. Fortunately, all went well.

The high point of their visit was a story that Paul told us about Laura Marguerite. It seems that they have been studying countries of the world in their Kindergarten class. The previous week they had been studying about Italy and the teacher told them the story about “SOME GUY WHO PAINTED THE 16TH CHAPEL (!) ON HIS BACK.” Then to illustrate how difficult this might be, the teacher had all the kids lie down on the floor under their desks, attach paper to the underside of the desk and draw on it. When Paul tried to correct her, she was quite insistent that it was the 16th Chapel.

Over at Mark and Lisa’s house, Andrew has the honor of being the next one in braces. He’ll be in them for a while – which is one of the reasons he decided that percussion might be a better instrument for him to play in the school band. Lisa is thrilled that spring has finally decided to arrive. She is stocking up on tomato plants (for Mark, who loves them) and flowers that attract butterflies. She has an amazing butterfly garden.

Barb and Walt bought a whole trunk full of geraniums to plant in their back yard. They tolerate the heat fairly well, so we hope to enjoy them for a long time.

Sam wasn’t able to make the family get-together on March 12, but was able to come spend a few days with Rob later in the week. He is now taking guitar lessons so he had to bring his guitar along to practice.

Walt had been promising to fix ‘fritters’ for the kids (from an old family recipe, a kind of dense fried bread cooked like pancakes), so we had a couple of wonderful breakfasts with fritters, fried eggs, etc. The kids were properly impressed. They are really good. We also had one breakfast of an orgy of a variety of donuts and kolaches. A big favorite with everyone.

The Lerschen/Foss Families: Mary Pat’s spring schedule called for a trip to Florida in March. We look forward to hearing about it. Did you go to Disney World? It’s an experience.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

APRIL:

04/11/35 Jim Lerschen
04/13/96 David Walter Arnold
04/18/59 Rod and Marilynn Peters’ Wedding Anniversary
04/21/60 Elmer Nutmann Baldwin, III
04/21/03 Emmett Richard Peters
04/28/84 Peggy (Sullivan) and Tim Smith’s wedding anniversary

MAY:

05/01/92 Michael David Peters
05/02/57 Terrence Robert Sullivan
05/05/98 Robert Julius Pinczes, Jr.
05/06/91 Dominick Paul Peters
05/15/63 Paul Steven Arnold
05/19/54 Michael Kevin Sullivan
05/21/88 David and Julie Peters’ wedding anniversary
05/28/83 Elisabeth Joan (EJ) Baldwin


Correction: I incorrectly listed Evan Peters’ birthday in last month’s newsletter. It is actually March 2.

Vol. 11, No. 2

February found sundry of the Peters’ clan fleeing the icy grasp of winter for some warm R&R in Hawaii. Most of us just soldiered on with J. Frost at our side. Winter does get loooong about now. We Texans dasn’t complain, though, since the weather has been pretty good down here. Just a case of winter weary doldrums.

Everyone seemed to have checked in to the Winter Olympics – the mountains around Turin/Torino are spectacular. It’s quite the production. In 2010 it will be Vancouver’s turn.

The Sullivan/Smith Families:
Terry has been doing some traveling this month, which gives him a chance to try out his ‘new’ car. He also flew to Dallas for a meeting with Half Price Book bigwigs. He likes going there because he can visit Dealey Plaza, which is a must on every trip to Dallas. In between all this activity he has been battling a bug. It really lays him low.

Spencer seems to be enjoying his part-time job at Biaggi’s – particularly the ‘tips’ part. Peggy is going to try to persuade him to save up for a car, at some point in the future. I guess that it’s just about tops on every teenager’s list of “must haves.” Right now the tips are going towards X-Box games.

What grandparents do for their grandchildren! Peg and Bob took Spencer to see “King Kong” recently, and in Waconia, Marilynn and Rod took Jack to see ”Curious George.” That’s almost above and beyond the call of duty. In Barb and Walt’s world, we watched “Bambi II” with the San Antonio grandchildren, during a recent visit over there. They rec’d the DVD for Valentine’s Day.

Peg and Bob really have the local squirrel population well trained! They have been an easy touch for peanuts. Recently one of the squirrels figured out how to climb up the side of their house and he surprised Peg by popping up on the outside window sill (with claws gripping the side of the house), peering in at her. Needless to say he got a reward of peanuts for his clever trick! They are getting pretty brazen.

Spencer was particularly pleased when the Pug won the Toy Dog category at the Westminster Club Dog show.

Peggy had a murder mystery party at their house a couple of weeks ago and says it was a smashing success with everyone in costume and playing their roles well.

She also reports that her foray into nine-ball pool is going well, still a little up and down. She found out that she had the woman’s high average in her eight-ball league last season and will garner another trophy to add to her collection.

The Peters/Baldwin Families
The winter crud hit with a capital “C” this month. It laid Laura B. low for a couple of weeks and wiped Marilynn out for what seemed like an eternity. She medicated like mad, saw the Doc and got some more meds to take to Hawaii. Hopefully, she was able to get rid of it while she was there.

Just for a change of pace, Rod got to work on something other than computers recently. Seems their front doorbell decided to ring whenever it felt like it, so that went to the top of the “To Do” list pretty quickly. Especially since it often felt the need to peel in the middle of the night. A wicked way to waken!!

Jennifer flew to NYC for a weekend with some of her college friends who live there and got caught in the big East Coast Blizzard. She’ll probably think twice about going to NY in the winter again. She was lucky to only be delayed by a day.

Marilynn and Rod flew to Honolulu on 2/19 – via Anchorage, Alaska, if you can believe it. Rod is able to access the passenger manifest for the various flights out of Mpls. and determined that the only sure way they could get to Honolulu on time was to go via Anchorage. And besides, it looked like there would be first class seats available, which makes traveling easier. Made for a very long flight (14 hours), but they made it! Jennifer and Jack followed on Tuesday, 2/21, as did Elmer and Laura. Unfortunately, the weather has not cooperated as it has in the past. Lots more rain (in Honolulu?), which cramps one’s style. Rod did get in a swim in the ocean with his friend, Norm and Marilynn checked out the hot tub. They made a trip to the Pearl Harbor Exchange and Commissary (of course). Jennifer found a wonderful kids pool for Jack and they’ve spent lots of time there. Elmer and Laura took them to see the Doris Duke home called “Shangri La” – Marilynn said it was quite the place. Rod and Jenny took Jack to the Aquarium, which must have been pretty exciting for him.

At the Baldwin household Chris participated in what Laura referred to as the school trip of a lifetime. The Benilde choir was asked to sing at Disneyland (yup, that’s in California) and, not letting that golden opportunity pass without parental participation and Kodak moments, Elmer and Laura flew out to witness the event. Chris wasn’t overly thrilled with the news but they promised to only appear as tourists and to hand over cash, as necessary. Not a bad deal! Never one to let any grass grow under her feet, Laura, when she found out they were going to L.A., e-mailed the Dr. Phil show and asked if they could get tickets for Friday, 2/17. They DID, and were able to see the show.

Elmer has just returned from a long business trip to India and Japan. He returned jet lagged and thrilled to have peanut butter toast the first morning home. It’s interesting what a person misses when they are traveling.

Elmer and Laura flew over to the island of Maui for a few days and were planning to do a fly-over of the volcanoes on the big island. Elmer also planned to do some golfing with his friend Kenny, who works on the big island now.

Over in Switzerland, Jim has also returned from a big trip to India to meet with an Indian software company. He also went to Bangkok and was able to see several friends from the time he worked for Thai Airways. You’ve all heard of catamarans; well, somewhere along the line he tried a trimaran. Must admit that was a new one on me.

The Arnold Families
Lisa is counting the days until she can start working in her garden. She has the proverbial green thumb up to her elbow – kind of like Grandma Lerschen had. She could coax a stick to grow. This year she bought eight different varieties of tomatoes to try. Mark was very pleased. He LOVES them! They keep so busy with school activities. Plus, Lisa’s Dad, Baxter, seems to depend on Lisa to do lots of things for him. I guess it’s the price a person pays who is extremely efficient.

Barb & Walt drove over to San Antonio on 2/23 to check out the troops over there. Dr. Laura is finally out of her neck brace and seems to be doing quite well in the recovery process. On Friday the kids were in school, Dr. Laura was at work, and Paul, Walt and Barb drove downtown to the main Post Office to view the murals on the walls that had been painted in the 1930’s in the Work Project Administration Artists project. All over the US during the Depression artists were put to work painting murals in public buildings, in conjunction with the WPA putting up many new buildings. Many cities and towns got new Post Office buildings in the early to mid 30’s. The murals in San Antonio were completed in 1937 (artist Howard Cook of Massachusetts and New Mexico did them). There are sixteen panels covering Texas history from the Spanish exploration to the discovery of oil. They are inside the building and are in perfect condition. It was very interesting to see them. Rob had given Walt a book on the Texas murals for Christmas and this was our first opportunity to see some of them.

We had a very nice visit, in spite of the power going out for a while in their part of town after an overnight rain- storm. David and Laura M. discovered that their Grammy (that’s me) loves to do puzzles, so we had a grand time working on puzzles. Dr. Laura is a whiz at them. We hope to see them again soon.

The Lerschen/Foss Families
Evidently Mary Pat has a little extra time on her hands right now. I actually got two e-mails from her this month with lots of news. She went to San Diego to visit a friend for a week this month. The weather didn’t cooperate quite the way she would have liked. Evidently they hit a nasty sand storm while in and around Palm Springs, so they turned tail and returned to San Diego. And you all have probably heard of the incredible reputation of the San Diego zoo. According to Mary Pat, nothing compares to seeing the real thing --- in Kenya!! As far as she is concerned, the San Diego Zoo is strictly second class.

And while she was in California she had her kitchen ‘ at home in Illinois made over,’ from floor to to ceiling. First time in 30 years and she loves it.

Her schedule for the next few months involves lots of traveling – Florida in mid-March; Kenya in late June (plus Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti and then various parks in Kenya – all in 21 days. It is safari #10 for her!
Etc., etc.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

March:
03/03/97 Evan Thomas Peters
03/03/63 David Walter Peters
03/03/68 Robert Julius Pinczes
My, but 03/03 was a popular date!
03/04/59 Darcy Westby Sullivan
03/04/84 John Lerschen
03/10/69 Terri Pinczes
03/11/37 Rodney George Peters

April:
04/11/35 Jim Lerschen
04/13/96 David Walter Arnold
04/18/59 Rod and Marilynn Peters’ wedding anniversary
04/21/60 Elmer Nutmann Baldwin, III
04/21/2003 Emmett Richard Peters
04/28/84 Peggy (Sullivan) and Tim Smith’s wedding anniversary

Mary Pat forwarded the following joke for your consideration:

The Bathtub Test:
During a visit to the mental asylum, a visitor asked the Director what the criterion was which defined whether or not a patient should be institutionalized. “Well,” said the Director, “we fill up a bathtub and then we offer a teaspoon, a teacup, and a bucket to the patient and ask him or her to empty the bathtub.” “Oh, I understand,” said the visitor. “A normal person would use the bucket because it is bigger than the spoon or the tea cup.” “No,” said the Director, “a normal person would pull the plug. Do you want a bed near the window?”

Vol. 11, No. 1

A new year has dawned, and a fresh ‘tape’ is in place to record the experiences. I read somewhere, many years ago how, when a person celebrates a birthday, they – figuratively speaking – put in a new mental ‘tape’ to record the events of that year. We can do that too! So, the Memorex is loaded, we’ve pushed the Record button and here are some of the family highlights to slip into your personal Memory book behind the January tab.

The Sullivan/Smith Families
Because of his experience in overseeing the building and/or remodeling some of the Half Price Book Stores, Terry has some definite ideas on how he would like to see his store in West Des Moines remodeled. The plans have been approved and the renovations should start this summer. It’ll be crash, bam, boom time for a bit but we’re sure the finished space will be great.
Bob’s friend from Minneapolis, Darrell, came for a mid-winter visit in January. The weather has been so mild in Des Moines that there were able to go out and shoot a few buckets of balls at Golf Galaxie without losing any in the snow. The Iowans are praying for rain before the spring growing season begins. The entire mid-section of the country seems to be experiencing drought conditions. At least we haven’t heard of any wild fires up there so there is a small silver lining.

For you guys who may be interested in such things, Bob’s current PSA is .024. That’s fantastic. Keep up the good work, Bob!

Things have been busy at the Smith household. Spencer started his first job – working at Biaggi’s Restaurant as a busboy. He wears a black shirt, pants, and shoes, busses tables and refills water glasses. Peggy has finished her last week with her 8-ball pool team. They have played together for 14 years! She is going to give 9-ball a try now. They were saddened to have their beautiful Ridgeback (Doug) put to sleep this month. He had several tumors and Peggy didn’t want him to suffer. They still have 2 dogs – Spencer’s new puppy, Boris, keeps them in stitches and gets along great with their boxer, Dempsey.

Terry’s months of researching finally paid off when he found a 2001 Toyota Avalon that just fit his needs (and pocketbook). Peg reports it is burgundy, with a tan leather interior and has all the bells and whistles. Sounds just great.

The Half Price Books honchos came up from Dallas to Des Moines and finally had their Christmas party. They celebrated at a place called Granite City and presented Terry with an award for most sales for the third consecutive year

The Peters/Baldwin Families
Marilynn continues to doctor for her back, which has been giving her fits. I guess three herniated disks would do it! She was given an injection, which, hopefully, will give her some relief so she can enjoy their trip to Hawaii later this month. If it was me, I’d be demanding Scotch delivered via IV! She bought a new bathing suit and is ready to go! Elmer and Laura will join them for a while, as will Jennifer and young Jack.

Jim and Jeanne’s son, Benjamin received an electric guitar for Christmas and the house is now vibrating with the sound. Jim reports that with all the wonderful food over there, they need to put a warning sign on some of the food – “Beware of a food coma.” They recently enjoyed a meal of Raclette - Gruyere cheese, served over boiled potatoes. Who would have thought that fondue pots would come back in popularity. We sold ours 10 years ago.

Ed cut off those long locks. Now if we can get Rob to do the same! Something about ‘hell freezing over’ comes to mind where he is concerned. He got a haircut a couple of years ago and said he felt like Samson. He’s been restoring his strength ever since.

Rod and Marilynn went to a 50th birthday party for Rod’s sister, Joanne. Hard to believe. I still think of her as a teenager. Instead of being in-laws, the Peters siblings refer to their spouses as “the Outlaws” – pretty cute.

Evidently the sleepy little town of Waconia has become the target of a gang who are breaking and entering. Something like 10 businesses in Waconia were broken into during the course of about a month. Ouch. That’s a lot, considering there are less than 50 businesses in Waconia’s downtown area altogether. In the good news department, rumor has it that a Target store will be built in Waconia in 2007.

Matt still drives out onto Lake Waconia to do his ice fishing. Marilynn reports that with the mild winter they are having, it’s very quiet, compared to most years.

Rod continues to attempt to rescue and repair all the computers in the world. He keeps busy being the No.1 repairman for the family – and anybody else who has heard about his talent. He’s on a first name basis with the people at St. Joe’s. If a Fry’s Electronic Store ever opens in the Twin Cities, he will be their best customer.

Teresa celebrated her birthday with a large group of friends at Buca’s in Eden Prairie. Her siblings went together and bought her an iPod.

Joellen made a short trip to Cincinnati recently to visit her mom. It’s so difficult to have a parent ailing when you are so far away.

Marilynn and Rod were able to get away for a ‘long’ weekend thanks to Julie offering to take young Jack on Monday. M&R flew to Austin to visit Brian and Joellen and celebrate an early 5th birthday for PJ. It was 83 degrees in the afternoon there – quite a change from that Minneapolis winter weather. When they returned to Mpls., the thermometer read 38. Marilynn reports that the boys are very sweet and certainly play well together. They took the kids to the Alamo Theater. It’s a clever idea – luxurious seating, restaurant service with orders taken and delivered before the movie starts, with space in front of you (like a long desk) to place your food and drink.

The Arnold Families
None of our family may be University of Texas alums, but we DID watch the Rose Bowl this year and were tickled to see the UT team win. Big celebrations all over Texas – most especially in Austin, I’m sure. Over there they party hearty at Supermarket openings!

In what is probably a vain attempt at getting healthier, Walt and Barb have started walking. The weather is quite nice right now – don’t know what we’ll do in the throes of the hot Houston summers.

Walt’s recent blood tests show his uric acid numbers are creeping up so the doctor started him on some meds, hopefully to keep him from getting gout. My, but we are having a good time!

When Rob’s son, Sam, was visiting a couple of weeks ago, we served pears with our dinner and discovered that he loves them! It was delightful to watch him. His mom has now laid in a supply for him labeled “Sam’s Pears.” Next we’ll try peaches, and see how he does.

The flu bug has been stalking the Mark Arnold family, so things have been pretty quiet on Condessa. We hope to see them this weekend to help celebrate Rob’s birthday. Right now Andrew is battling tonsillitis.

Over in San Antonio, Dr. Laura has ‘graduated’ from her neck brace and I am sure is very thankful. We’re sure it was a long three months for her. The doctor is satisfied with the healing process and we are all so relieved that that ordeal is now behind her.

David meanwhile has completed, with a bit of help from his folks, a project for Catholic School Week. He picked the topic himself: Simple Machines and the Inclined Plane. He had to write 300 words but apparently warmed to the subject and did 650, which then had to be typed. Those teachers are getting smart. When I was nine I couldn’t spell research much less do it!!

Our day-brightener for the month comes from Laura M., who has evidently seen those ads on TV for the cruise ships. She announced to her folks recently that she wants to go to one of those ‘hotels that float in the water.’ They grow up Soooo fast! Little does she know that Dr. Laura’s practice is taking the entire staff on a 3-day cruise out of Galveston in April. So she will get her wish.

The children are both playing on basketball teams right now. Laura M.’s team is ‘mixed’ – boys and girls, and she is evidently formidable on defense. Paul says she plays them close, waves her arms, “and scares them.” Great technique!

The Lerschen/Foss Families
We are sorry to report that Jim’s wife, Barbara, lost her mother this month. I believe she lived out in California. No other news from this wing of the family. We understand that Mary Pat is doing some substitute teaching to replenish the coffers – no doubt so she can plan another trip!

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

February:
02/01/2001 Peter Joseph Peters (PJ)
02/06/1968 Robert Christopher Arnold
02/07/60 Laura Jean Peters Baldwin
02/08/1965 Joellen Mikovich Peters
02/11/1962 Jeanne Marie DeRose Peters
02/15/1947 Barbara Lerschen
02/21/1910 Anniversary of Rachel Smith Lerschen’s birthday
02/23/2005 Bob Sullivan’s brother, Bill, died

March:
03/03/1997 Evan Thomas Peters
03/03/63 David Walter Peters
03/03/68 Robert Julius Pinczes
03/04/59 Darcy Westby Sullivan
03/04/84 John Lerschen
03/10/69 Terri Pinczes
03/11/37 Rodney George Peters

P.S. A suggestion for a Valentine’s Gift for your sweetie: Try www.romeoshops.com for an idea that’s sure to please.