12/19/10

Minneapolis,

Good Morning,

It seems as though I have neglected my responsibility of updating our BLOG on a regular basis.

When I started blogging it seemed like a simple task to sit down on a Sunday Morning and write about our weekly adventures here in Minnesota. As the weeks slipped by and the excuses became easier, I became lazier and lazier as spring slipped into summer and now the winter has arrived. And how it has arrived.

We hardy Minnesota'ns have been in the national news for the wrong reason. It's called SNOW.

It is also called the flop of the once mighty purple and gold, the once fearlful and fearless Minnesota, Vikings.

The largest storm since the biggest of them all, the 1941 Memorial Day Storm in wher many lost their lives.

We were warned many days ahead of the chance of a large blizzard comming our way. Many of us still remember the November 1941 storm but a lot more of us do not take it as serioius as some of us old timer's. There are many more of us crowded into larger areas now than there was in 41, none of us did'nt have, 2 or 3 cars and no one new anything about freeways or commuting. Many could'nt imagine what was soon to become realty for them.

The storm with dry snow and wind came and came and came. Lots of it. The state had 250 plus plows and additional trucks, blowers and end loaders ready to go when the snow began. Unfortunatly it was a loosing battle from the beginning. We, just like everyboby else just let it come. Tell me what else was there to do except get the kids in and hunker down and watch all 17 1/2 inches of it fall in this large metropolitan area.

We are still plowing (24 a day), streets and roads, plowing and blowing freeway lanes to accomodate the same trafic that is used to wide streets and freeways. It has been to cold to spred salt as it will not work in bitter cold and it is just recently that the bare roadways are once again beginning to show. They were the usual complaints that we were not prepared, we had'nt planned, the snow rules were planned by idiots and why could'nt the people in charge done a better job.

We now find ouselves complaing about blocked drives, sidewalks, trails, and not the least, the lack of parking on already narrow streets. Fire hydrants are buried and neighbors who know the locations of these important red hydrants are being asked to shovel them out. The firemen are also shoveling instead of relaxing in their warm and freindly firehoses. There has been a death due to a burried Hydrant and a fire truck stuck in snow near a total loss of a small business.

All of the staunch population of Minneapolis and St Paul can only say "UFF DA"

Doris and I will have turned 84 by the time Christmas is agai n upon us.

We are both happy as clams that we are able to celebrate our 84th Christmas together. My, how things have changed from our birth. Doris born into a farm family, the 11th of 12 children of Otilda and Alvin in Lafeyette County, Wisconsin an I the first of Vioilet and Lawerance both of them 20 years of age in Milwaukee Wisconsin. It amazes me how we humans in our young life time find our mates. Doris from a farm family with many children and I from Miwaukee, into a small family in a metro area of working folks and almost newly married. This year we will enjoy the beginning of our 62nd year together "Doris always turns red when I explain that she does not count the 2 years I chased her and finally caught her. This does not mean we are together on every thing, nor have we been, but we have a super long list of togetherness and are looking forward to many more of these togetherness years.

We always enjoy the holidays, especially the Chritmas cards and the memories of this special time of the year and all of our freinds, past and present that we have enjoyed and are still enjoying every day. We always remember that the fond memories never die, they live forever.

We will spend Christmas Eve at Son Jay's and wife Gina and their family consisting of son Dylan 2nd grade and the three Girls ,Emma, Allysa and Laura. now in 1st grade.

We will return back to Jay's on Christmas day with the rest of the available Battenberg's for a grand day of excited grandchildren, great food and hugs. Due to the size of our clan it's impossible to get all of us into one place at one time, so everyone is welcome to come and go as needed to the next family celebration.

It is now time to close and rest. I will need a lot of rest to watch the Vikings and the Bears play football on the frozen ground of the Uof M football field. I will also tell you of the complaints of all of those football season ticket holders who had their life inturupted by not being able to sit in their regular seats in the colapsed Mall of America Dome. I am really sorry for those who suffer in this season of hope and charity.

Jim and Doris

Minneapolis, MN

10/24/10

Good Morning to all.

The Minnesota weather records were all confounded this fall season.

Usually we have had frost, some snow and some cold days ond/or nights.

This year it has been more like spring this fall. This is not a complaint, just a reminder of the one thing we humans are unable to adjust to are liking. We do of course take responsibility for the raise in our climate, the melting of the icebergs, the rise in the ocean levels and the continued use of fossile fuels that have changed our lives.

I must add that we are enjoying this October.

I can remember some Holloween evenings taking our children house to house trick or treating in snow conditions that kept many in their homes. Living in a condominium on the 17th floor does not lend itself to trick or treating. There are a few children of the trick or treat age in the building but so far into our tenure we have never had any kids knock. We kind if miss it. It was always fun to see the kids dressd up in ther spooky costumes and their bags of goodies they collected. Doris and I miss it.

The weather each week as reported in the sunday news Star-Tribune continully predics lower temperatures for the comming week. So far it has been rather pleasent and I have had the overhead door to my shop half open each day. There is no heat in the shop until it really gets cold. It is a arge area to heat and cement block construction does not hold the heat very well. I just put on the long john's when the cold begins to bother and as I work I forget about the weather. On the other end of the spectrum, I did suffer from the constant humidity and heat of this past summer. I did survive, just work less.

Doris is enjoytng her return to Kenwood school, her 40th year. She does enjoy, and I'm glad she is not sitting around watching the tube. She is getting along well just is not able to walk long distance's as she once did. One of the reasons that we moved into our downtown condo was the super Minneapolis bus system and now the fairly new Light Rail is just as convenient and we enjoy having the choice of leaving our vehicle parked at home when we feel it's easier to use public transportation.

Remembering!

Do you remember when Grandmother, and probably your Mother (depending on your age) had a sewing basket. Back then it was easy to get a button sewed on your shirt at almost a moments notice or when Mom felt the need for a rest in her favorite chair where the basket rested with her. It was always a neat place to dig into and see all the different needles, kinds and colors of thread, several sizes of thimbles and the jar or can of buttons that were cut off of clothing before it became a dust cloth or a patch for knee's and elbows. Mostly I remember the variety of those jars or cans of used buttons. Now it seems that we just buy a new shirt when it becomes impossible to button up again. Those of us who served in the military had to learn the art of sewing buttons, stripes and the various outfits served on our uniforms where we served. It was not often (in the army at least) to see the supply sargent and beg, bribe or trade for somthing new.

November is soon to be here and the political cat calling relief will be be over and name calling and poor job performance will come to and end. Doris and I have never been polititions. This is not a boast or an apology it's just that our families were never involved. In the Battenberg and Nelson families many uncles would argue and fight over the candidates. Some would hold grudges for long periods of time after an election. This had a real negative effect on me as a child while listend to uncles argue. My Dad never participated in these silly arguments so I never became interested.

A hooded robber burst into a bank, forced the the teller to load a empty sack with cash. On his way out the door a brave customer grabs the hood, pulls it off, showing the robbers face. He shoots the customer, looks around and see's a teller looking right at him, and shoots her also. The others, scared to dath, look down at the floor in silence. The robber then asked; "did anyone else see my face?" One man raises his had, "My wife got a pretty good look at you."

Have a great week, listen to the politicos, make your decision and be sure to vote Tuesday.

Keep in touch, we love to hear from you.

Be good to one another.

Stop in for coffee. (or invite us for coffee!)

Jim and Doris

Sunday 09/19/10

Minneapolis, MN

Good Morning,

August and the hot and humid weather has led us into the chill of September and its cooler days and evenings, a welcome pleasure. A delightful time of the year.

To-day in our town is a double whammy sports day. The Minnesota Twins on a prolonged hot streak have all but sewen up the division title and ahead of the ailing Chicago White sox by 10 games. This late in the season almost an impossible task to catch up.

The Vikings on the other hand still struggle (even with Bret Favre at the helm) have a difficult time winning. All of this sports activity results in humungous traffic comming into Minneapolis streets and filling the many parking facilities and finding room to park those game buses that the business's provide as long as you spend money with them before and after the games.

Doris and I watch the traffic from our 14th floor balcony as the Twins crowd travels North to Target Field and the Vikings fans travel South to Mall of America Stadium (formally called the Dome). I suspect they wave when passing on Washington Avenue. Thanks to television we are able to escape all this crazynes while enjoying both games at the same time in the comfort of our home.

Last week was uneventful at our house. No medical emergency's no bad weahter to report, just our normal day to day activities. Doris is of coarse awaiting the call from Kenwood School for assistance with the kids and I am as usual spending my days at the shop trying to help and not be a drag.

Grandaughter Dawn was here to visited her two grandmothers his week end. She is a new Bride (last June) and resides in the small community of Sabeka, Minnesota. She works at a nursing home and husband Dave works as an auto mechanic. Dawn spent a fairly good time learing to filet fish (mostly walleyes) at Minnesota,s, Morey's Fish Company in northern in Northern Minnesota. She claims she worked there just long enough to become a pro at fileting Walleyes, Minnesota's favorite fish. "A smelly job she say's as you might expect. Tells us most all the fish that are purchased by that company (mostly from the Indian popoulation) arrive frozen, thawed, cleaned and shipped to back via restautrants and grocery stores. I don't want to be a pessimist, however, I watched a group of Native American's clean these famous walleyes on the shore of Lake Mille-lacs. I was turned off to see those fish that are caught in gill nets, die, are then left hanging till they are harvested. It was not a pleasent experience.

I stopped writing at the last paragraph to peek at the two games that were in progress here in Minneapolis, the Twins and the Vikings. Both lost so I must get my thoughts back together to continue. The Twins have won, are far enough ahead and not to wrry.

I can't say the same fro the Vikings. Three games three losses. I am happy that I am not an avid sports fan.

A few weeks ago I went Fishing with Daughter Jill at Jane and Garys home on Lake Morrison, about 160 miles north of Minneapolis. While were getting ready to leave for home, I unknowingly dropped one of my hearing aids in the bedroom on the way out. As I left I must have steeped on it. When Jane found it after Jill and I had gone it was completely smashed. I had to by a new one which is'nt an easy task. New fitting of the ear canal, three weeks wait while hearing at half volume. I finally got the new aid back and have been enjoying the new sounds when disaster struck for a second time. We were at lunch with daughter Jill and her friend Jill. Yes, a second Jill. When leaving the restaurant and hugging the girls good bye, my original hearing aid fell out of my ear. Must have been that great hug I recieved. Any way, before anybody could find it, disaster struck a second time. Yes, it ways destroyed by someones foot. So, now, I must go thru the same process and cost for a new second aid. The good thing is, it was the old hearing aid that was destroyed, not the one I just replaced. At leased I will again have a matched pair. We did catch fish at Janes and we did have agreat lunch with the two Jill's. I shall survive.

We hope all of you out there have a great September and are looking forward to the fall colors. Here in Minnesota there is only a hint of some tired leaves. We are looking forward to the hard wood trees to dress themselves in those beatiful fall colors. Everthing is still green and blooming and only a few trees are showing signs of the comming fall season.

Along with the leaves falling soon there are some other things you might remember that have disappered. See if you can remember the things that were part of our vocabulary a while back?

Fender Skirts, Steering Knobs, Continental Kits, Dimmer Switch on the floor of the car, Running Boards, how about the phrase Store Bought, Coast to Coast or Wall to Wall. When was the last last you heard "in a family Way". Brassieere's have become Bra's and supper has become Dinner.

See how many you can list.

I hope all have a great week comming up. Enjoy September and the fall weather. Remember that winter is not far behind.

Enjoy and keep in touch.

Jim and Doris

Minnepolis

Sunday,

September 12, 2010

This week in the Great Upper Midwest the weather has been terrific. No high temps, no high humidity just temps, delightful to work and play.

The football seaason has started and the baseball season is winding down. The Twins are in first place by 6 games or so in front of their nemisis the Chicago White Sox. We have (sort of) become fans of the Twins. The new Target stadium is not far from our door step and is is fun to see fans of all shapes, and sizes walking past before and after. It's a great facility. I have been to one game and was awed by the new stadium. There is parking, bus and train station right at the door. There are also numorous watering holes and the large number of bars and beer joints nearby to take care of the large crowds that have been attending the games to experience the new seats, food, and drink and thus far the winning season that the boy's of summer have provided. Tickets are hard to come by and expensive. No matter, as there is always a sell out. beer goes for 7 bucks, a coke and a hot dog are 4 bucks each. Best advice from old Jim is, eat and drink before you arrive at Target Field. It's a great facility and I believe the best in the Am erican Leauge. There always are the naysayers who said it wouldnt work, to close to downtown, to close to the garbage burner to much downtown traffic, and on and on. The bottom line ----- it works great and its almost impossible to get tickets.

School has started and as usual, Doris is getting ready to begin her 40th year at Kenwood. See volunteered for quite a few years, before realizing they would pay her for the same effort. She now receives a pension check each month that is hers, and enjoys being back on the volunteer list again. Daughter Jane, (Eide Saw) has rented part of the secure parking lot to a 5 school bus firm. This is exciting. I don't see them leave in the morning as I never get there till later, but it is fun to see them return, back into their spots and return in the PM to collect the kids they droped off in the morning.

Speaking of Eide Saw, Jane fell at church on a wet spot, (broke her left elbow of all things) She is a lefty and is having a devil of a time trying to get used to the inconvenience. No cast has been applied as they are havung her exercize the joint regulary.

Grand Daughter Jennifer paid us a short visit last Friday. She lives in Alabama and is here because husband Steve and Son James are spending time on the river with the new boat and motor Steve brought home one day. He is from Wisconsin so he know's boats. Sounds like a great plan to me. I hope they kept a journal of their adventure.

Last Saturday was 9/11. A lot of contriversy all over the country, especially New York. A difficult time for those who lost loved ones. In Minneapolis it is the third anniversary of the I-35 bridge collapes. Their is a memorial planned for the 13 who died in this disaster. The steel beams from the collapsed bridge have been saved as there are ongoing law suits in progress and the beams are evidence. I would guess it will be a long time before all the lawers have had thier day in court.

I have been cleaning out all of the electronic garbage I thought I could not live without. The condo management team has a place that rids us of all that stuff that is now usless to us but a gold mine to those who know how to retrieve the recycled parts. My closet is now available again. My Dad had a lot of camera equiptment in his day. I some how inherited it. I found a fellow who duplicates film to CD's and he is able to find those still interested in film and is glad to take it. I still have my 35m camera and lenses etc. I will keep this in case one of the great gand kids someday expresses an interested in how we old timers recorded pictures of big fish the elctronic age.

I am never sure who is interested in this blog that was created by our Grand Children.

I publish it and never know who or how many out there read it. I mail it to those who are not yet interested or unable to join in the computer revolution. I have been told that every one has a choice, read it or delete it. I do enjoy doing it, as it forces me to comunicate. In my past life I did not write letters. Many peolple still do not write. This is OK. I never had good penmanship and the computer has solved that for me. I still have a few problems with spelling but am able for the most part to solve that. They call it (spell checker)

In a small Minnesta town that shall be nameless;

A fire started at a local chemical plant and exploded into flames. The company president announced " all our secret formulas are in the vault in the center of the building and must be saved. I will give $100,000 to the fire department that brings them out intact". The flames held the fire fighters off. In the distance, a siren was heard as an older fire truck came into sight, it was the Township Vounteer Fire Company of Norwegians over age 65. The engine roared past the newer engines right into the center of the inferno. The other fireman watched in awe as the Norwegian Old Timers drove right into the middle of the fire and brought the vault out, a performance never before witnesed. The Norse old timers extinguished the blaze and saved the secret formulas. The company president thanked each of the fire fighters personally.

A reporter asked the Norweigen chief ,"what are you going to do with all that money?

"Vell" said the 80 year old chief, Da first ting ve gonna do is fix da brakes on the gol dang truck".

Thanks for tuning us in.

Have a gr jim and Doriseat week end and keep in touch with each other.

Monday, September 9

Labor Day, 2010

To-day I woke to a Minnesota temperature of 61 delightful degrees.

Gone are the hot and humid days of July. In a day gone by I was able to do hard manual labor in any kind of weather, however as I age, my body wilts as did my tomatoes in the July heat.

To-day is the final day of "The Great Minnesota Get-together" the Minnesota State Fair.

Doris and I attended on the 27th of August. It was a warm day but not especially hot and humid as in days past. We listened to some awful loud music (I for a short time and Doris for almost the whole day). The music that I liked at the fair in past years is now given way to loud crazy stuff I do not enjoy. I did make the rounds at the fair, bought a few things that I could not live without and 1 hot dog and a Coke. Doris sat at the grandstand and listned to that awful music most all day except for a trip of two to the ladies room and some cheese curds and french fries. Wow what a diet. I left eary afternoon and as usual Doris hung out until the gates closed. We travel to the fair by bus so I did not have the responsability of driving home, just get on the non-stop bus, (50 cents) and enjoy the ride to a short block to our 14th floor home.

The attendance this year broke a record each day as it will to-day, labor Day. The polititions tend to crowd each other and are always a big draw this election year. I never listen as the news and TV are full of the complaints about the other person (the women candidates are no exception to complain about the incubunts and visa/versa).

Many people travel to our fair. It is the largest just behind Texas. The reason Texas is larger is that it runs 30 days, Minnesota 10 days. People from neighboring Wisconsin, Iowa and the Dakotas are part of the success of Minnesota's annual event. On this past Friday there were almost 1/4 of a million folks that passed through the turnstiles. Up here were hung up on food on a stick. From walleye to what ever you can imagination to this years pig's ear on a stick. Because of Doris and my scandinavian upbringing we pass on everything except the infamous pronto pups/corn dogs and the greatest french fries you have ever eaten. Travel up to Minnesota some time to visitand we will treat you to a delitful bus ride and a day at the fair. Travel up some other day and we will treat you to a great day of sight seeing and food.

Doris has taken delivery of her new prescription shoes, She is now happy as a clam and traveling behind her walker with the 4 wheel brakes. She is still the 2nd worlds greatest bingo player just behind Grandma Carlson who will always hold a place in our hearts for bingo attendance in Rockford, Il. She traveled with her friends once each week all the while Doris and I were dating.

Not that another school year has begun Doris is preparing for the call from Kenwood School to return (her 40th year) to assisting the K thru 6 kids that find it difficult keeping up. Many are from single parent families and some are unfortunate to have uncaring parents and some just have trouble with school.

There is exciting news on our 14 th floor home ! We finally (after the summer is over) popped for a new balcony screen door. Now the bee's, hornets and flies will have to find a new home. We have at long last shut the critters out! Why did we wait so Long? We don't know. Just one of those things. Yesterday we were honored when Jim and Gina came for Dinner and Jay and our youngest grand children came to be spoiled by grand parents. They love the balcony and my small steam engine that seems to amaze them when we fire it up.

Doris and I have been in a tossing out phase. All those things that we coul'ndt live without are now gone and forgotten. After watching Oprah arrange to un-klutter homes on her program we thought "Why Not" and it's gone forever. We seem to be part of a society of people who cannot bear to through things out. There might be the time when we need those things so we tend to hang on. Get smart and throw it away. If you need one later call one of the kids.

Road construction is still moving at high speed here in Minnesota. Week end closures and detours are part of the motoiring life we all seem to lead. We have to push like crazy in upper midwest because of long winters and short road construction time in the snow country. Doris and I try to stay in our own back yard most of the time. I am not sure anymore how much longer I will be able to deal with all of the traffic. I do well where I am familiar and not comfortable when having to deal with traffic in unfamiliar places. I have only had 1, yes 1 speeding ticket in my lifetime of driving (got my license at age 15) and no serious accidents.

A few fender bumpers is all I can remember. I am one of those guys you hate to get behind!

We joined AAA and carry a cell phone as I refuse to exit the car if it stops or a tire gives out. Pull over as far as you can and be patient!

Have you heard about the 83 year old gentleman who talked himself out of a speeding ticket by telling the young officer he had to get there before he forgot where he was going!

Have a great day and enjoy.

Keep in touch, we love to hear from you.

Jim and Doris

Minneaoplis

August 28

Good Morning,

As Doris and I age the time seems to pass faster and faster. It is almost Labor Day week end and it seems as though these warm sunny days have just arrived after the long Minnesota winters. So be it!

We are still enjoying each other each and every day as it dawns and passes. We seem to be continually busy, involving ourselves in some meaningful activity.

This is a special week, Minnesota State Fair Week, foundly called "The Great Minnesota Get To Gether. The Minnesota fair is just 1 place below the giant Texas fair in attendance and popularity. It runs for 10 days and each year sets new records for popularity and attendance. This years attendance is on schedule again to a set record. The weather has been super for those who like to rub elbows when it's not to hot at this great event. (this year there is an abundance of wind daily, election year). There is something for everyone, free ongoing entertainment at many stages, an evening talent show with a winner each night and a final winner on the last night, great food including anything from exotic to the regular Corn dogs and mini-doughnuts to this years new surprise "pigs ears". My favorite is a hot dog with everything and a cold coke.

This year was a another challenge for Doris and her 4 wheeled walker with brakes, a seat and a basket to hold all the necessaries for a days trip to St Paul on Como avenue where this event has been staged for many years. It's a look forward to event in the upper midwest, where folks show up from the surrounding states. Several years ago when Doris and I were RV'ing we parked at the fair, stayed at the RV park on the grounds for a few days and had a ball. We met all kinds of folks that come to the fair each year with or without the kids and stay for the entire 10 days or less. We met many RV people and had a ball. If we tired, all we had to do was find the coach and take a short nap or just sit in our spot and visit with the neighbors. This is what makes memories and makes an RV fun.

The first task accomplised at the fair is to get in line and pick up a free bag from the many companies that have their names plastered all over them. There are always lines when the better bags are being given away and this year was no exception. The smart givers only give away x of number of bags per hour. That cuts the cost, and keeps the crowd comming back all day for one of these "must have" delights that every one can spot immeciatley. I don't usually spend much money, (entrance for seniors is $8 this year) but sometimes something catches my eye and I pull out the Discover card and then realize that I have created a problem. I now have to carry the item/items around for as long as we are there. This year it was a grill grate scraper. Made from solid red oak. Because I work with wood I could not pass this wonderful solid wood, red oak wonder. I insisted that the sales lady demonstrate. $14.95 plus tax. Because I cook a lot I was unable to pass up the hand crafted garlic container and grater from Itay. The guy demonstrating (you can smell his booth from a long ways away) claims it works great and brightens up the counter next to the stove. $13.00 plus tax. It does'nt do much for Doris. Remember she was the 11th of 12 Carlsons decended from Norweigen farmers in Lafayete county, Wisconsin. I liked it and it now set's next to our stove.

Doris new presciption shoes have arrived and we will travel to the Doctors office (again) for a fitting and are hoping they will fit and help correct the problen that was encountered when the leg brace was introduced because of the problem that was caused when she was rushing to the bathroom and broke her wrist because of the problen that was caused because of the failed surgey a while back. (wow) Other than that she is doing great and is looking forward to returning to her volunteer position at her beloved Kenwood School. She will start about 3 to 4 weeks after school starts and the kids that need that little extra are identified. Last year it was 1/2 day on Tuesday and Thursdays. I drop her off at about 7:00 am and someone from school returns her to the 14th floor condo about noon. This activity keeps her off the streets and out of the bars!

I am still hanging out at my favoite saw repair shop, ocupying space for my wood working. This keeps me active and I am allowed space to manufacture sawdust. I do run a few errands and have become the letter carrier for the company. Again, I have mananged to gain many friends at the post office as I pick up the mail daily. I also deliver resharpened saws to my favorite lumber supplier and have just realized that I probably spend more on lumber than they do on sharpening. There is something wrong with this Picture!

I am looking forward to the fall season as this summers heat and especially high humidity really took their toll on poor old Jim. Many days I left left the shop early as I just seemed to wilt when I tried to do something. I have blamed the many mistakes a miscues on the heat instead of my brain which suffers from the many years it has directed all my activities.

I have just realized that I have sat here during and past lunch. With that task in mind I shall punch the shut down key and escape this chair for a kitchen surprise.

Doris and I hope all are well and for those Carlson's we hope they had a great time at the picnic. We are sorry we had to miss.

Probability; After your hands become coated with grease when repairing your car, your nose itches and you have to pee.

Probability; The severity of the itch is inversley proportional to the reach.

Have a great week,

Jim and Doris

Sunday, August 8, 10

Hi,

Doris' toe is healing and she has been behaving by keeping her foot elevated. She is a difficult person to follow orders for bed rest. She has been staying off and keep the foot elevated. Years ago they didn't think of probable future problems when it was popular to remove those ugly large veins that a lot of people had. They just ripped em out with out any thought of future consequenses. Now that the veins are gone it takes a long time for the blood to return to the heart and poses a longer healing process. She is improving and a new pair of presciption shoes have been ordered. She is looking forward to her 40th year at Kenwood school soon.

This event has altered our thinking about the annual trip to Madison Wi. and the picnic and our visit to friends and relatives that we miss.

Maybe Next Year !

The upper Midwest weather has been hot and humid. I travel to the shop each and every day but don't try to set to many gaols for the day when it is humid. Since my age has been creeping and project keep piling up at my shop door I do escape the heat when i feel overwhelmed ane head home for the 17th floor and air conditioning. It is also necesarry to check on Doris so it all works out. Each week they predict more heat and humidity and each week we tough Mid-westerners face it like soldiers. It's kind of odd as I remember my days on the farm when we put up hay for the winter in outside hay stacks, shocked oat bundles and milked those hot cows twice a day in weather not unlike what we are experiencing now. How did we do it? We Had To! and we were young and foolish. Horse worked all day in the heat, but were rested often and plenty of water. we never lost an animal due to heat or exhaustion. They were the power on the farm in the 40 ty's.

Great Grandson James, ten years of age, from Alabama visited last week of July. His first plane ride home to Nashville where parents Jennifer and Steve greeted him. Jim and Gina drove to Alabama to visit and brought him back to Minneapolis for his first visit away from home. We enjoyed showing him the unusual parts of the city. Underneath the new 35W bridge, The U of M racing shell boat house, as well as collecting rocks and mud from the Mississippi River. We hope he enjoyed as much as we did.

Traveling Humor!

"Take notice: when this sign is underwater, this road is impassible"

Safety Information on a card in American West Airline:

"If you are sitting in an exit row and cannot read this card, please tell a crew mwmber".

Thanks for looking us up. Let us hear from you.

Jim and Doris

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Hi to all,

It is the first day of a new month. July flew by and now we are looking toward the end of summer. As we age, things that once seemed to drag by, now race past us like a flash of lightning.

We must be come observant and careful of our priorities and not take on to many responsibilities that take much of our time. It seems as though we are just beginning to get used to these pleasant summer months and suddenly it's fall, or near fall and the sports world is hyping football and Bret Favre. Will he or wont he return to Minnesota? Meanwhile the Minnesota Twins are on a roll and have won 7 in a row and playing better. They are now facing the bigger, better, eastern teams who are in contention and this is where they always seem to come apart. We shall see.

Last week end was partially spent in the emergency room of Uof M Riverside to repair Doris big toe. Due to her diabetic condition the slightest bruise, bump or blood sugar levels cause immediate concern.

Somehow, somewhere she bruised, bumped, maybe an ingrown toe nail caused us concern. The good doctor at ER lanced the thing, the nurse applied a dressing and handed her a supply of gauze, tape, the usual anti-biotic and sent us away with instructions to see Doc Kelly ASAP.

We followed instructions and the good Doctor ordered Doris OFF her feet. Preferably bed rest. Any one who knows anything at all about Doris knows immediately that this lady will never succumb to any form of bed rest. She has done quit well and has learned to clean and dress the toe like and expert. She does stay off and I have again assumed the domestic duties of the house. She is on the road to recovery and is being a good girl as 'The Carlson Summer Picnic" is drawing near.

This get to-gether is two-fold as we are fortunate to visit with old friends, (at least the ones that are still with us) and Jim's cousins in Oconomowoc and Lake Mills Wi. My cousin Bob Phillips who lived in Sun Prairie, passed away in June. We always look forward to the summer for these Wisconsin visits.

Traveling for the two of us is not what it once was. I must be aware of my driving habits and abilities that I took for granted in past years. I have only been presented with 1 speeding ticket in my years of driving, and no serious accidents or injuries. I use a GPS as my co-pilot Doris never drove, never wanted to, and does not read road maps. We always seem to get where ever it is were going though u-turns and around the blocks come oftener.

A policeman pulled a driver over after he'd been driving the wrong way on a one way street.

"The cop asked " Do you know where your going?

The driver Says "No, but where ever it is it must be bad because all the cars are leaving".

Keep in touch as we love to hear from you.

This is the third anniversary of the ill fated I 35 bridge collapse in Minneapolis. It has been rebuilt and is safe to drive on. Come visit!

Jim and Doris

Saturday July 3, 2010

Minneapolis

Hi,

This is the day before our countries 237th Birthday.

Be sure to fly your flag!

Hope all have plans to celebrate this one.

How do you place 273 candles on a cake?

The weather forecast for this celebration is and starting out A-Ok.

Doris and I have no plans but are remembering many happy fourth's in our less than 273 years.

Our family members will be spread far and wide this holiday. Some of them at the lake, some are camping, Some are enjoying picnic activities with there families and we shall just relax and enjoy the day.

Living downtown offers many celebration's here at home, in Minneapolis, At the Twins Game, and across the skyline from our 14th floor loft. We shall enjoy and remember past 4th with our family and friends.

It has been several years since we sold our RV and we are happy with our new less stressful packing, traveling, visiting, traffic and back home. Short trips for the two of us are great and relaxing. As we have aged and retired the thrill of a three or four day week end has faded and we are content to watch the traffic rather than in it, via the six o'clock news.

We are thinking about our usual trip to the Carlson Cousin's annual get together in the Madison area somewhere. This year we suddenly remembered that we have not strayed from home for a overnighter since the last Cousin's picnic in 2009. Are we getting old or what!

We hope some of the Carlson's Cousins will e-mail us with the date and place of this years event.

My memories of the fourth go clear back to Milwaukee where I was born. Back then, most families spent this day at a neighborhood park. There were games and boy's bicycle, doll and stroller parades for those sweet little girls and always the band concert somewhere everyone could hear even if you couldn't see it. Some parks had a lagoon and the older kids and their gals would rent a boat or a canoe and paddle around for a hour for 25 cents. Many "World War One veterans" were unemployed and they rode bikes equipt with a metal box full of dry Ice and packed frozen Pop-cicles of many flavors and ice cream bar's. The container had a big sign painted on it that proudly stated "Soldier Boy's" and they sold for a Buffalo Nickle.

Most of the people in the park walked from their homes as most cars were up on wood blocks in those depression years. Later after the home made lunch had been devoured and when the sun had set for the day, there were the long awaited fireworks show. Every family headed for their favorite place in the park to spread their blankets to anticipate and see the show. The show was equally shared with billions of mosquitoes and ants feeding on sticky kids who mostly went unwashed the entire day. The sidewalks were filled in all directions with neighbors and friends heading home with sleeping kids in carriages and wagons. The street car stops were filled with those who used these these electric marvels to travel longer distances. Adults fare was a nickle and kids rode free. Families of that era mostly spent holidays together no matter how far the walk or ride. Just imagine the trip home by foot or by street car with a bunch of tired and by now crabby kids, most with dirty pants and diapers, some crying, some sleeping, and some carried. We called these the "good old days".

A bit of humor;

A woman sitting sitting at a bar when a tall handsome middle aged man entered. He was so striking she could not keep her eyes of him. The man walked toward her. Before she could offer apologies for staring so rudely, he leaned over and whispered to her "ill do anything, absolutely anything that you want me to do, no matter how kinky, for $20.00... on one condition." Flabbergasted, she asked what the condition was. The man replied, "You have to tell me what you want me to do in three words." The woman considered his proposition for a moment, removed a 20 from her purse, pressed it into the man's hand along with her address. She looked deeply into his eyes , slowly and meaningful said: "Paint my house".

Our New e-mail address for those who have not changed your address book is

e.james.battenberg@comcast.net.

We like to hear you from our friends

Jim and Doris

Tuesday, 6/22/10

Time is flying by. Doris and I are hoping all of you are well, happy and enjoying life and the sumer months.

Mothers day has passed and now Fathers day is history. We are both well and are enjoying Minnesota and each other. Growing old has its ups and downs but we seem to survive and enjoy life here in the upper midwest.

We spent last week end at Jane and Gary's just completed new home at lake Morrison in Cass County Minnesota. What a grand home they have built. It was also constructed environmentally safe so as not to pollute the lake. This is a real problem in Minnesota. It seems if you have enough money you can convince the county boards to amend all the rules concerning run off, long docks, speed boats causing wakes and destroying shorelines, larger weed rakes destroying fish reproduction and natural fish habits in the name of having a cabin at the lake. The county boards will do most anything to accommodate these lake home owners so as to be able to up the tax base in their counties.

It was a great week end for us. It was also the first time we have been overnighters since our last trip to Madison for the annual Cousins, annual reunion. We are no longer RV'ers so this was a real treat. We fished a lot, caught a lot of fish, Northern, crappie, bass, sunnies, played a lot of cards, ate to much and generally had one great time. The weather was perfect and we threw all the fish back as we caught. Some were mortally wounded the great Bald Eagle polices the lake with regularity and it was fun watching him watch us for his easy meal. These eagles return to this nest each spring. All we saw was the giant rooster patrolling his personal lake.

I have been fortunate, having the honor of being asked to build end tables and coffee tables for the new home. I am very fortunate to be able to maintain my shop at Eide Saw. Jane allows me

to do my thing and this keeps me busy, young at heart and healthy. I unable to thank her enough for this great privilege. I did furnish the new lake home with 9 bedside tables, 1 enormous coffee table and an entrance bench for shoe changing etc. I had a ball making a lot of sawdust.

Doris is now Kenwood school free for the summer. She is enjoying the summer just plain being lazy. She still travels to the casino on each and every Tuesday. I remember when Doris and I were dating. Tillie used to travel to Beloit, WI. one evening per week with her friends to play Bingo. I guess it's kind of in the genes. It was great for Doris and I as we had the living room to our selves after a nigh at the movies or before the last bus showed up to take me home to the village of Shorewood where I boarded. What a great time we had and the great memories that went with it.

I an weary of the oil spill news and am sad for the folks whom have lost their lives, jobs, businesses and mostly for the environmental disaster. Those great beaches will never be the same no matter how they try to convince us otherwize. Forever is Forever. Many species will be lost and some already have been lost. I wonder if our need for oil will ever cease. I also wonder if the cause for all of this will be corrected or if this is a message to prepare ourselves for more disasters and a signal for terrorist to use them for a easy target ruin more oceans. I remember how Sadam burned the oil wells some years back when he was in retreat.

We are all well up here in the Land of Sky Blue Waters. Son Tod is recuperating in Oroville, CA. We are thankful that we now know where is is and is being cared for. The balance of our Minnesota clan is doing well and despite some of the folks thoughts that we were making a crazy move. It worked out well and we are happy as clams we are here.

Back in 1949 when we were married, Some said it would never last! WOW

I am still having trouble receiving e-mail. I guess it must be me as the Apple store people say all is well. It is not well as I do not receive any e-mails.

O well, I guess I will live without e-mails until some one or more of my family bails me out. Bear with me.

The nice thing about being senile is, You can hide your own Easter eggs!

I've sure gotten old!

Two Bypass surgeries, a hip replacement, new knees, fought cancer and diabetes.

I'm half blind, can't hear anything quieter than a jet engine, take 40 different medications that make me dizzy, winded and subject to blackouts and have bouts with dementia.

I have poor circulation, hardly feel my feet and hands anymore, can't remember if I'm 89 or 98.

Have lost all my friends, but thank God, I still have my drivers license.

Jim and Doris

Sunday June 13, 2010

Good Morning to all!

Another week has pased by with a bit of summer weather and early spring.

To-day, it is dark, gloomy with a chill in the air. A good day for reading, TV, or writing. I chose to write this morning as it is quite and cozy on the 14th floor.

Last week has been good to Doris and I. Summer vacation has become a realty for Doris after the school season has ended. She has been busy as a bee cleaning closets and riding us of the squirrel's habit of filling corners with things we really don't need, but seem to become (must keep) items we can't dipose of. I am thankful I personally have not been catogorized as one of those don't need items.

Last week we had a call from a friend in Iowa who reads our blog. It's always a surprise and also a happy reward that we receive for keeping our mailing list current. B-C or before personal computers this was a chore most folks unable to accomplish. It was not that they could'nt they just did'nt have a convenient way of keeping one if they were not trained. I can remember Mother's list of freinds, written by hand, in pencil, on 3 by 5 cards in her unique hand writng. Many of them were her long time time freinds that I remember from summer picnics, in our back yard or those special Sunday dinners my mother was so proud to serve.

The cards are gone as no one would ever put any value to this list of names of those who are now forgotten. My brother John is 5 years my junior. He does not have many of these memories. It does'nt seem as though a mere 5 years would make much difference in our lives, but when a sibling is 5 years younger, these years seem make a difference in our growing up young years. I am fortunate to have my "Apple", I am sure I would be reading Dagwood from the Sunday newspaper.

As much as I would like not to, I must comment on the oil spill.

Doris and I traveled via our RV in past years to many points of this great span of clean water and wonderful beaches. I did not swim in the gulf very much as I was never a good atswiming. I was a "just got by" swimmer. Doris is a good swimmer who used to swim laps in younger days where we had an indoor pool. Doris did not like the salt water but she did enjoy those sugar white beaches. I can't imagine how those who live on or near the gulf are feeling. They must be devistated.

We here in Minnesota, "The land of 10,000 Lakes" would also be devistated if our lakes suffered a fate equal to theirs. We will always remember meeting the shrimp boats comming in from the beds with their fresh load. Buying the fresh and biggest and boiling them in beer was an event never to be forgotten.

My tomatoes are growing like wild fire. I have them tied and have trimed the non-producing portions. The yellow flowers are beginning to appear. I, like the Chinese people must pollinate the plants as bees do not exist in China. Growing tomatoes in an industrial park does not lend itself to attracting birds and bees for this task. I just get in there with my hands, and gently shake the top blossoms, the wonderful pollen then falls below and just like magic, those little green nubbins begin to appear. I have one plant, purchased from Home Depot, that is of Austrailian plant breeding. It has leaves that resemble potato plants. It is supposed to produce wonderful pink tomatoes. I will keep you posted.

Jane has survived her knee surgery this last week. She is experiencing therapy and the healing process. She will be back at Eide Saw as soon as possible. This surgery is suposed to prevent knee replacement for an unknown period. We shall see.

I joined a health club last year.

Spent about $400 bucks.

Haven't lost a pound.

Apparaently you have to go there!

The advantage of exercising each day, is so when you die,

they'll say,

"Well, she sure looks great, doesn't she!

Thanks agian for listening in!

Keep in touch.

Jim and Doris

Sunday June 6, 2010

Good Morning,

For those of us who are older this is a special day in the history of the world and WWll.

On this day thousands of soldiers of the free world arose on this date in England, were served a grea breakfast, loaded on transport ships and traveld to the shores of France to begin the greatest invasion of Europe. One that the world has never seen before and hopefully never again, to defeat the forces of the 3rd Reich and Adolph Hitler.

Many of the invaders were drowned when leaving the landing crafts after jumping off near shore, some in deep water, dressed for invasion with heavy weapons and full packs of amunuition. Many were injured or killed on the trip that transported them from Englnd to the shores of France. Many died on the beaches before the thousands of allied invaiding forces overwhelmed the German Army and the eventual fall of the Nazis.

I was a buck private in the Army Infantry, just finishing my basic training. I remember the cheers when we were told of the invaision and all of us, the late entries into the service, were anxious to get to Europe to help finish the job. The guys I trained with probably did get there. I never made it. I was on furlough before being shipped out. I became ill during my furlough and my folks had to call the army to tell them I was unable to travel. They insisted that a Doctor would have to confirm I was to ill to get back to camp and my outfit. This was accomplished and an army ambulance picked me up at my folks home in Kenosha, Wisconsin and transported me to Ft. Sheridan, Il. It was a long ride in an army ambulance (if you have ever seen one on TV you will agree) especially when your sick. This experience turned into a three month stay at the hospital. That is when the war in Europe ended and where I was declared to ill to continue army duties. I am glad I had my chance to serve, but unhappy that my military career was shotened and I was dischared when the Japs were were still fighting. I wanted to get back to my outfit in Ft. Rilery, Kansas where I was to ship out. I never made it. I never saw any of my Army buddies again. Back then no one kept home addresses so I lost track of them, as well as my personal things that were packed in duffel bags back at the base and all of my army issue except for the things I had with me on my first and last furlough. I think about "what If" as I sit here on June 6, 2010 alive well and able to think of what might have been for me during the future of the war. I am proud to have at least claimed to be a part of it and I fly my flag almost every day.

Summer has arrived full force here in the Upper Midwest. Everything is green or becomming green, campers are prepacking thir camping gear for a new season. The green houses are doing a super job of supplying spring flowers and plants to those of us with green thumbs. School is soon over for another year and Doris has just compleated her 29th year of service at Kenwood school where a couple of our kids attended elementary school.

Doris was nominated for "Minneapolis Volunteer of the Year" this spring. A couple who volunteer together at different school than Kenwood were chosen (and deserved the award) . Doris was a special award person of the year and was treated royally at a dinner where I was fortunate to be invited. I met many of the teachers she assited through out the years of service. It was a great time an I was proud to sit next to her and see her shine. Doris was also honered Mothers Day, at Jane and Garys home, where the celebration took place. Most all of all the kids where in attendance. All of this made a special week and day for Doris.

Tod, our wayward son, living in california is recovering from a stroke he suffered a few months ago. He is doing well and travels from home to a rehab center for therapy. I am told he is doing well, however full recovery is probably a way's away.

Jane had knee surgery this last Friday moring. The was surgery to put off for as long as possable a cxomplete knee replacement. She is doing well. Swelling and soreness are the call of the day and therapy session are endles. she hopes to be home by eary week. Her home is on a hill and stairways lead to all entrances. We shall see how she manages this. She is concerned about missing work at Eide saw, however the gang there has been with her for many years and the company will survive until she is able to drive and get around.

Jane and Gary's new lake home is now occupied and I suppose she will conveles there as much as she can. Doris and I are invited to inspect the new lake place on the week end of June 25. We are anxious to see it and maybe even get in a bit of fishing. We willtravel to the lake with jim and His wife Gina. I will not have to drive.

Oil continues to gush and is contaminating the great Gulf of Mexico. Birds, fish, beaches marsh will suffer for years to come. Income, carreres and a way a life will begone for many years. I assume that some species of the gulf will also be lost forever. With all of our technical knowledge and expertise, how could this happen? Was it inevable that in our quest for energy that this would happen? We are all probably to blame for our trmendous energy supported life style. Just look at the crowded highways, and all energy guzzling machines we citizens must have or at least think we must have to survive. In Minneapolis a commuter light rail sytems has been completed and is being extended to St Paul and other suburbs to get single occupant cars off the roads. The light rail commuter cars are comfortable, the fares favorable and polution is decreased. Everyone cannot use mass transit on a daily basis and must drive but it all helps to slow the use of oil, which will propbably never happen and the pattern of covering the land with concrete roads that will never stop. If ever you should find yoursely in our "neck of the woods" we will see that you travel to the Mall of America via Light Rail.

Now that June is here, "in its full glory" I must report that my tomatos are growing like crazy. I have already tied them and I am about ready to trim the lower non-producing branches.

Work hours at the shop are still shortened due the slow economy. This is not comfortable for the long term employees, it is however better than zero hours. The work is kind of sporattic, busy one day and slow the next. Over the long run it seems to be picking up a little but for all the machinery we have it is an under performing economy. At least, in our case, all is mortgage free, long term debt is non existant. Just need to be careful what is purchased. The rule is, "if you can't sell it, don't buy it."

Now that summer is here Doris and I are again looking forward to our annual trip to Madison to visit with the Carlson clan. It is always good to see all the survivors and their families at least once a year. This event usually takes place in mid August and we again are awaiting to see which neice or nephew will be the host for 2010 get together.

As the years pass it becomes a more difficult each year to make the trip from Minneapolis to Madison. We always tell ourselves this is the last time, but as the months pass we somehow gain courage, pack up and go, visiting with freinds and family along the way. It is not a fast trip but we continue to make the round trip with out incident.

At 83 I still drive with confidence, just not as fast and a lot more careful as in the past. I do run errands and make a few out of the way deliveries for the company. I am sure I am one of those guys you drive behind and when you get even with them, you take a look to see who that old guy is.

I get awful nervous when I am diving behind those mostly young folks who cant drive without a cup of coffee, a deafening radio and a cell phone in their ear. Who are all these folks talking to?Takes us a bit longer longer but we usually catch up with the drivers who honk and speed by at the next traffic light or rest area.

Humor!

A traffic policeman pulled a guy over after he had been driving the wrong way on a one way street.

The cop asked, "Do you know where you were going?"

The guy replied, "No, but where ever it is it must be bad because every one is leaving!"

I have a sort of mental lapse when it comes to using my computer. I always have trouble remembering passwords and other secrete proceedures that refuse to let you connect unless you can furnish you pet dogs name or some supposed secrete word that you alone can answer. I guess I will list these secretes in a secrete place and then hope I can find the secrete place where they are hidden when needed. This is the reason my blog's are never regular. One time I can open it like lightning, The next time I try It wont let me in.

Thank God for the Apple Store.

I still get up early each day, shower, shave, prepare the days breakfast for my bride (Doris requires 1/2 grapefruit and a cup of hot fresh coffee each morning to get her going). I then travel to my shop where I create much saw dust. I have been building small furniture for Janes lake home. I travel to this friendly lumber yard where I pick up and deliver saw blades. They are always glad to see me as I usually fill my car with exotic lumber for the next weeks projects. I might also tell you that if it wasn't for the activity and routine I have created for myself, I am certain I would perish. I have this nice park bench, not unlike the ones on the shore of Conklin Park on the shore of lake mendota in Madison where Doris and I used to sit for hours and hug after the movie before we were married. I sit in my restored bench now, in the sun, wave at the girls and cars going by and refresh myself with a bottle of water. If I am bothered at the shop or things don't go the way I like, I just turn the switches to off, close the overhead door,tell those interested good bye, travel home (about 5 minutes) and find my favorite chair and nap a while.

I have known a lot of guys who said they would not do a thing except fish, drink coffee, and sleep after retirement. After the fishing became old hat and became a routine, they sat with nothing to keep mind and body active.

I have attended many funerals.

Thanks for tuning us in. We appreciate letting you, our friends and relatives know what's happening in our lives.

We appreciate hearing from You, we hope you appreciate hearing from us.

Be good to yourselves and enjoy!

Jim and Doris

e-mail

e.jamesbattenberg@comcast .net

blog (Published occasionally)

eidesawman.blogspot.com

phone

612-332-9965

Sunday April 25, 2010

Hi to all,

Last week in our "Neck of the Woods" the wether was just like it is supposed to be in the Minnesota spring season. Warm sunny days, cool nights and not much rain. It did rain on Saturday and touch early Sunday AM. We are all looking forward to the great Upper Midwest summers than we just can't get enough of. Where did the phrase Neck of the woods come from? Every one has used it and never gave it a thought. There really isn't much of in the way of woods in our "neck of the woods! We are urbanites to the core. The only time in my life when I lived in"the Neck of the Wooods" is the summers and one winter at my Uncle Ray Nelson when the farm was mostly "neck of the woods" We cut wood to cook with, to heat the house, to heat the wash water and rinse water. We cut wood to use for buildings, a house, and a barn during my time in Sheldon, Wisconsin. After a tour in the army in the last year of the war I became an urbanite again and have been ever since. It's really nice being an urbanite in downtown Minneapolis. With a turn of a faucet hot water for my shower is instant. Cold water to brush my teeth and hair comes from the other faucet not from the pump in the pump house. A simple turn of the thermostat provides us warm or cool air and my car, old as it is is always parked in a heated garage where the snow and ice melts while Doris and I rest in our 14th floor home. Neat Huh!

The tables I manufactured for Jane and Gary have been moved to Lake Morrison where they will spend there lifetime. I am now framing mirrors to match the hickory trim in the new lake home. The home is finally livable and furniture and belongings are being transported to the lake almost each week end. I am looking forward to my first visit.

Business at Eide Saw is picking up a little each week. Not what it was a couple of years ago but on the rise. I keep busy in my shop and the last few weeks I have been rakeing last years leaves from along the fence. Good exercise for an old fellow who is beginning to feel achy knees and shoulders.

The Minnesota Twins are still in fierst place, although they did lose today. I did'nt watch as I was busy cooking, writing and a bit of napping. The new ball park is drawing a full house for each game and I have been invited by son Jay to attend an afternoon game on may 5th. I shall dutifull report my thoughts of the new ballpark.

The Minnesota Vikings are not so fortunate. Have been trying to get the taxpayers to construct a new football arena. Their lease is up after the 2010 season and threats to move the team to another venue (cities are crying for them to move to their new unoccupied stadiums. Will they leave? We shall see how much this team means to this important asset in Minneapolis.

Son Jay, the new owner of the next store duplex is busy rehabing the last side. The first side has been rented and he has begun to enjoy his new cash (cow) flow. He is looking to rest soon after the necesarry repairs are accomplished before it was suitable for renters.

I am patiently waiting for late summer to transplant my 6 tomato plants that are beginning to consume our sunny living room window. (this is a downside to condo living, we are surronded by concrete). The tiny tomato seeds have turned into growing plants. They have atained a height of 7 to 8 inches and are anxious to travel to the outside of the shop where they should flouraush till fall. Naturally I will keep you posted.

Son Tod is improving in sunny Califorinia. Doris and I are thankful for his friends the "Siglers" who have answered the call, feeding, cleaning and caring for him. The balance of the Battenberg clan are working, no one has been laid off from their jobs and all are looking for the wonderful summer days ahead.

Doris is back on her long time school volunteer schedule. A few more weeks and she will have to fill her time in some other manner. She has been nominated for a volunteer award. The award dinner is soon and I will keep you up to date about this lady that has worked and volunteered at Kenwood school for 39 years. She is feeling good and still gives money to the tribes at Mystic Lake Casino each and every Tuesday. Never leaves home without her trusty four wheeled brake and comfortable seat walker. Bus leaves from the hotel for the casino at 11 o'clock AM. Every one of her gang helps to see that she gets there and back home again. I wish they would help her win a little oftener.

Sign's (again)

"Teacher Strikes Idle Kids"

"Miners Refuse to Work After Death"

"Juvenille Court Trys Shooting Defendant"

"Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors"

Thanks for looking in! We appreciate.

JIM and DORIS

Amen !

April 19th, 2010

Good Morning,

Spring has arrived in Minnesota. Snow and ice are memories. The grass has, or in some area's is turing green and leaves are begining to show green.

Most in the Great Upper Midwest are excited about the Minnesota Twins and the new state of the art Ball Park.

The twins are hot and off to a good start at their new home and learning how to field balls that are hit off the new walls and watching to see how they bounce in the green grass. It's a long season and we will see what we shall see! The games thus far have all been sellouts as we the people are anxious to see how our millions of dollars were spent. Target Corporaton was a large contributor and thus "Target Field" is the chosen name. I shall attend with son Jay on the afternoon of May 5. He has aquired tickets and together we will sample an afternon at the ball park. I am sure we will enjoy the food, the seats, the view and enjoy the home town boys swinging the old hickory. Of course there are no hickory bats any more. As usual we Americans have cut our way and almost eliminated all of the hickory trees in the country and now it is exciting to watch the bats break as the hitters swing to make contact. The various woods being tried now are all suspeck and the old time manufactures of those great hickory ball bats are trying everything to find a wood that will compare with Hickory. So far no luck.

I think we should try and "SAVE WHAT IS LEFT" of everything. I wonder what our Grandfathers would think about all the new multi-million dollar stadiums and then find that we have squandered all the hickory trees. The Ball Park is within walking distance of our 14th floor condo. It's fun to watch the fans walk to and from the games on these great sunny spring days saving much congestion on the hiways and city streets. Our new Light rail transit brings the out of towners right to the ball park station and returns them to the burbs after the game. A far cry from what we once thought of the Dome as being state of the art. Now we have the dome without any tenants except the Vikings. Their lease runs out in a year or to. The good news is, the dome is paid for. We just have to find some other venues to fill it.

Doris and I have had a good week. Doris still continues her "help the kid's" at Kenwood school twice a week. I still travel to the shop each day. I have stopped offering advice and stay in my shop making sawdust. The last project was 11 various tables and a large mirror framed for the new mansion on Morrison Lake. Jane and Gary have always dreamed of this and the four bedroom home will be occupied weekends this month. They are happy as clams and busy moving "stuff" from home in Minneapolis to the Lake. We all, of course know this moving exercise will never cease as long as there are two homes a little less than 3 hours from home.

Son Tod is improving and is able to move around a little more a each week passes. He wears a brace on his right leg and arm. I am always amazed at the folks, (whom we have never met) (we could all practice some of this helping hand stuff) have taken responsibility for his care and convelesence. We are sorry he is in California and not closer to home. That, however is what he has chosen and he is happy with his decision.

Our tomato plants are enjoying the small table next to the only sunny window we have. We will have them as company for at least another month. I will then transfer them to their place in the sun outside the door of my shop. They do get tender loving care throughout their short life but they make many of the Eide Saw family happy when those fresh off the vine big red ripe wonders of nature mature.

As usual I will try and make you smile in signing off.

"HEADLINES"

"Enraged cow injures farmer with Axe"

"Plane to close close to ground, crash probe told"

"Iraqi Head seeks arms"

"Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half"

"Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft"

Have a great spring.

Call, write or vist anytime.

Jim and Doris

Saturday, April 10

Minneapolis

Happy Easter to all, one week late.

Doris and I hope all had a Great sunday last and made certain all the kids( no matter what age had a great family day.

As a young boy Easter was a special day for Brother John and I. We would wake up early and hunt for the Easter basket my mother worked hard to make special. There was always a special easter surprise that she created and would last long after the candy and decorated hard boiled eggs. Mother would always purchase a large chocolate egg that I always looked forward to. It was large and fill with a yellow candy yolk surrounded be white candy and covered with delicious chocolate. I wound slice thin cuts and enjoy then rewrap it, place it back in the basket until next time. I also remember that the next-times were not to far apart. This was always a wonderful easter gift Mother provided far into my adulthood that she purchased from the Fanny Farmer candy store. Fanny Farmer is no longer around and I still miss this wonderful delicious chocolate egg. I am sure Brother John also recieved some special delight that he enjoyed as much as I enjoyed that egg. In those days we also were required to eat the boiled eggs that we helped color when we grew older. It was almost a sin not to eat them. We learned quickly that it was better to eat them A.S.A.P. as the days past and the eggs aged.

The weather turned great for the holiday and we spent it at son Jim's in Chaska, MN. About a 30 mile trip from our condo in downtown Minneapolis. Not to much traffic on a beautiful Sunday. We are always the recipient, of the delicious ham bone that Doris and I create pea or bean soup from this base. In addition there is always a care package of ham for us to enjoy.

This year there were only host's Jim and Jay and Gina and their four youngsters and the two of us. Gina had hidden plastic eggs around the yard and the four kids had a ball hunting. After the first hunt the kids each took a turn turn at hiding the eggs. After 5 Easter egg searches they began to tire and look for something more exciting to do.

Yesterday, Friday was "Important people Day" at school for Dylan and his sister's Emma, Aylisa and Laura. Doris and I respectfully attended and had chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce and one large cookie. We had a ball and we think the kids did too. We hope to be invited again next year when Dylan will be a second grader and the girls will be following in first.

I have transplanted my tomato plants to a larger plantable pot. At first they looked sickly but after a few days, perked up and are growing like crazy. The plastic grow boxes are prepared and ready to accept this plants as soon as the merry month of May arrives. ( along with assurance of warm days and nighhts.

Son Tod is doing well in California. He now wears a brace on his right leg and arm and is moving around quite well with weekly session at re-hab. We feel bad that we cant be there for him. We talk to him each week. This is kind of strange as in past years we would'nt hear from him in months and even sometimes in years. Were glad to have him back in the fold and are appreciative to the Siglers who have assumed the total responsibility of caring for him.

Doris is back at school for a second day each week. She and the staff look forward to having her as well as her kid's. She loves it and it is important to her to have this special responsibility.

I am, as usual into the shop each day. I just finished a large project for Jane and Gary's new four bedroom lake home. She asked me to build 8 bedside tables and took posesion of two more I built previously. It took many weeks of my part time retirement, but enjoyed the opportunity.

I always like to share a bit of humor in our blog and try to make you smile, so here goes!

SIGNS of THE TIMES

In a clothing store;

" WONDERFULFUL BARGAINS FOR MEN WITH 16 AND 17 NECKS"

In a General Store;

"WHY GO ELSEWHERE TO BE CHEATED WHEN YOU CAN COME HERE"

In a Paris France elevator;

"PLEASE LEAVE YOUR VALUES AT THE FRONT DESK"

Have a great spring and forget about the crazy folks among us!

Do not text while driving - (as far as we are concerned or any other time)

Jim and Doris

Minneapolis, Mn

March 14, 2010

Good Morning to all,

Another week has passed and 2010 spring and daylight savings has given Doris and I the opportunity to look forward to more and more enjoyable Minnesota weather.

Unfortunately, a rainy week and melting snow and ice have added to the runoff into Minnesota streams and rivers. It seems every spring, people living near these waterways suffer from floods. It always amazes me how much they must love living near or even on these flood plains. We wish them luck again this year.

To-Day, The U of M basketball team plays in one of the semi-final games. I nor Doris are not die hard sport fans, but do get excited when the Gophers, Twins and Vikings do well.

The Minnesota Twins, after much dissatisfaction with the Metro-Dome now have a brand new outdoor ball field. I have not seen it except driving by and television pictures. All reports are that it is a state of the art place to watch and play baseball. More tickets, season and singles, have been sold than anytime before in the history of this Minnesota team. Even those who complained about how the stadium was financed or where it was built are now standing in line for tickets. Many of the teams future home games are already sell outs especially the Yankees and Milwaukee. We shall see what happens on the cold and wet days of a Minnesota spring. The Target Corporation helped financially, hence (Target Field).

Son Tod is doing better with his therapy. Twice each week his friends, the Siglers make sure he gets to his sessions and exersize sessions. Doris and I are very appreciative of this family.

Son Jay, the father of the triplet girls is busy with his his recent purchase of the duplex next to his. It was in pretty bad shape and required many unexpected repairs. I have been helping as much as I can with repairs than can be accomplished in my shop.

In addition to our blog, we send e-mails and to those who are not computerized an occasional letter. It seem unfair that if you don't have a computer youre out of the loop. Some have trouble when receiving e-mails and opening attachments. We too have the same problems occasionally when receiving e-mails with attachments. I must assume we are not alone. We just keep on keeping on.

The green thumb news; This last week I sowed my wild oats! In my case it was tomatoes. I use those handy little plastic greenhouses that contain every thing to be successful except the seed. These tiny tomato seeds have sprouted and are doing well in our partly sunny living room window. Yesterday I purchased the soil for them to grow in when they grow up. I need all the help I can get as the growing area in my grow boxes is not very spacious. This gives me and the tomato plants a better chance to be popular when those delicious red fruits are ready for slicing. I especially am anxious to watch them, on a daily basis, grow outside of my shop door.

Today is bright and sunny. I awoke to daylight saving this morning. Popped out of bed, showered, shaved and then realized it was Sunday, not Monday.

Almost as bad as showing up at church after the service.

1969;

Woodstock, Apollo Mission to the moon and Sesame Street debuted. Do you remember?

He said to her "what have you been doing with all the grocery money I have been giving you"?

She said to him " turn sideways and look in the mirror".

Jim and doris

An exciting week at the Minneapolis Battenberg,s

March 7, 10

Today is March 7th.

Two full days and 61 years have passed since our marriage in Madison, Wisconsin, Doris, home and her affiliation with Trinity Lutheran Church.

Most of Doris, family and friends and my family were in attendance.

Many of those are gone now.

We have fond memories of all those great relatives and friends who gave us our start in the beginning 61 years ago.

If anyone who was in attendance that day it would be thrilling to hear from them.

The second exciting event that took place this last week was the electronic filing of our income tax.

Who would have thought 61 years ago that we would be able type information onto a computer, dig up last years Income tax return, stored in a computer type information into little boxes, and send it to the IRS with out using an adding machine having or to dig for information we might have missed if it was not for the electronic miracle we are now used and would have a tough time living without and communicating to many many people without this valuable asset.

Mind boggling to say the least.

Our long lost wandering son Tod, who resides in Oroville, Ca. unfortunately suffered a stroke. It has slightly paralyzed his right side. He is in therapy and his right arm is working better than his his right leg. There is s a family that has adopted him and are taking great care of him.

(they deserve a gold star) His prognoses is good but has high cholesterol and blood pressure. (to much junk food).

I will take time to explain what the problem was over the time since I published my last blog. I finally opted for a service with high speed internet capabilities. I had trouble getting reconnected to many of my former list of providers such as the blog. I have restructured and am (I think) back in the loop. My e-mail is (e.jamesbattenberg@comcast.net) I might add that I am more than satisfied with the service and ease it affords me.

Those of us in Minnesota are now looking forward to spring. We were clobbered with a snow storm on Christmas day that was almost immediately followed by a hard rain. Because of the holiday, plows were not immediately dispersed and over night the whole mess froze solid. We have been suffering with that until the last couple of weeks when the sun rises higher each day and takes its toll on all that snow and ice.

I (Mr Green Thumb) have been thinking of starting my Tomato plants in our living room as I did last year. It is not Doris, favorite place for them but is the only place I have found where I can give the proper environment and the loving care they need. Stay tuned for more tomato news.

It seems as though I have been rambling to long so will sign off for now , but not without a smile!

Aging:

Eventually we all will reach a point in our lives when you stop lying about your age and start

bragging about it.

When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, Think about algebra!

Remember to keep on keeping on!

Jim and Doris

March 1, 2010

Believe it or not, we are back.

Due to a change in internet providers we lost our connection to our blog as well as other e-mail address' we were used to hearing from. All is well now and another computer complication chapter in the life of Jim has past

Thankfully the Apple Store got us back on track. This is the first attempt with Comcast, our new provider.

Spring is in the air in Minnesota and most of the midwest area of the country.

Doris broken wrist is almost history and we received good news that she is cancer free. She never was diagnosed with cancer, but the physician was caucious and careful to explore everything. For myself the prostrate cancer I was diagnosed with has been erased and I am now cancer free.

Doris has just returned from Barstow, California. She spent a week with sister Ruby. They had a great week together, visiting, shopping and some gambling at the Laughlin, Nevada casino,s.

As usual I have been keeping busy at Eide Saw, in my shop that Daughter Jane provides for me. I really appreciate this perk as I would be lost with out some kind of work activity. Seems that I worked for so many years I need to keep on keeping on. It seems to keep me healthy and I love being there on an almost daily basis.

All of us here in the Minneapolis area are happy and healthy.

We hope all of you are the same.

I am looking forward to spring and can get back to my tomato garden. It satisfy,s my green thumb addiction.

Just in case my new e-mail is;

e.james battenberg@comcast.net

Give us a jingle, e-mail, phone 612-332-9965

Jim and Doris