2026

February 11, 2026

Michael's colonoscopy went well. A great relief for him as the doctor indicated this should be his last.  And much to my amusement, the waiting area was a bit of a stitch and bitch session of women crocheting and knitting red ICE protest hats. I got a new hat pattern from a woman from Alpena and also learned that prople are crocheting and knitting small red hat pins - something  I plan to do. Resistance is a thing even if it is symbolic.

Sean has agreed to help me create a design for a reunion T-shirt. I am toying with the idea of having it say "Blame it on our Pedit Roots" just for fun.

“The hollowness was in his arms and the world was snowing.” — William Goldman, “The Princess Bride”

February 10, 2026

There were moments today that I was ready to throw in the towel planning the family reunion. Butch seems to think I need to do a better job of selling the event to family. And it hit me that other than Kathy, maybe I'm the only one that believes a reunion is a worthy idea. And I shouldn't expect support, financial or otherwise. And yet, I've forged ahead. At Butch's suggestion and a quick tour of Kensington Park today, I reserved one of the Park's pavillions. So the date is set for July 18-19. 

Michael is prepping for tomorrow morning's colonoscopy. I feel badly for him. It's such an unpleasant experience.

I FaceTimed with Porter briefly and she showed me the valentine she made for Grammy (me).  She is such a sweetie. Apparently she is a KPop Demon Hunter fan, which made me laugh because at Butch's birthday celebration, I was introduced to KPop by Fiona and Paul. I guess the music is popular.

“I am a book of snow, a spacious hand, an open meadow, a circle that waits, I belong to the earth and its winter.” — Pablo Neruda

February 8, 2026

Kathy and I went to a Fiber Arts event at the Ann Arbor Downtown library today. Artisans (is that the right word?) had their work on display for sale.  There are a lot of talented people among us and I felt humbled. Several were also selling yarn - with many skeins averaging about $30. A bit rich for me.  I was intrigued, however, by a few weavers that were working on portable looms at their tables. I believe weaving might be something I'd enjoy. One row at a time. 

I am still working on my "Melt the Ice'" cap. I encountered a big section of tangled yarn and after struggling with it for a few hours with only minor success, finally cut out the knotted part.

“Snow flurries began to fall and they swirled around people’s legs like house cats. It was magical, this snow globe world.” ― Sarah Addison Allen, "The Sugar Queen"

February 7, 2026

Our world is still white. And there is an eeriness looking out in the night sky at the reflections of the streetlights on the white surfaces. I tire of the cold.

There was a small simple birthday gathering at Butch and April's house this evening - Butch, April, Mike, Celina, Paul, Fiona, Kathy, Sugar, Mike, Faith, and Jen. Celina made chili and rice. Butch and April provided veggies, dip, and sourdough bread. Kathy and I brought the birthday cake, vegan cupcakes, and ice cream. Paul gave me a lesson on who the KPop Demon Hunters are, and I wondered if Porter watches this show. Happy early birthday, Butch.

And I have decided to poll family on what resources they may have that might be usable for a family reunion. Items like pop-up tents, folding chairs, and folding tables. 

“In the bleak mid-winter, Frosty wind made moan, Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone.” — Christina Rossetti, “In the Bleak Midwinter”

February 6, 2026

Hello winter, my tiring friend. This morning the roads were a snowy slippery mess. Kathy drove like a champ. 

I had my fiber arts class this morning at the senior center. Six seniors showed up to crochet beanies. One of the women, however, asked the instructor if we could crochet "Melt the ICE" protest hats instead. While I was interested, I did find myself wondering if the political nature of this request put the instructor in an awkward position. In the 1940s, Norwegions made and wore red hats as a form of visual protest against the Nazi occupation of their country. Within two years, the Nazis made the hats illegal and it was punishable by law to make, wear, or distribute them. And in today's current political unrest, modern day knitters and crocheters feel it is appropriate to revisit the design as a visual protest against ICE. The instructor handled this diplomatically. She will proceed with instructions on her original crochet project, but will also provide assitance to anyone trying to create a "Melt the ICE" hat.

I heard from Byrne today. I had sent him a follow-up reunion related message, in which I mentioned the last time I had seen him was on a road trip to Bay City. His mother had asked him to drive me. And I told him remembering how incredibly kind he was to me. He took the time to introduce Bob Dylan's music to me before we left. We visited a record store in East Lansing, where he Introduced me to a few of his friends. And for a moment, I found someone treating me like I wasn't just some little kid.  I've jokingly said it was the summer I turned pretty.  I wish I could persuade him to attend the reunion, but I get distance is a factor.

“What freezings have I felt, what dark days seen.” — William Shakespeare, “Sonnet 97”

February 4, 2026

Haircut today. I feel tidier. And I laughed that my hairdresser Paul was trying to apply hair spray as I walked out of the salon. He knows I'm not a fan.

Kathy and I bought tickets to see Jake Shimabukuro in concert in Skokie in May. Not exactly a girls gone wild night, but it should be fun. We picked seats in the first row of the balcony. Easier viewing for us shorties.

I have received most of my tax docs and may try to e-file soon. It's a task I'd like to finalize sooner rather than later. Time to pay the piper, although I am hoping for a refund.

"The snow doesn't give a soft white damn whom it touches.”  - E.E. Cummings

February 3, 2026

I woke up at about 4am this morning to pee. I returned to bed in hopes of falling back to sleep, but my brain had other ideas. My thoughts turned to the slight pain in my gut. It's been there for a few weeks - an empty hollow feeling. Like I am hungry, And will I ever be warm again? I realize my arms are wrapped around me like a straight jacket. And I can't help but wonder if I used Michael's body heat as a blanket, would I finally feel warm. And less empty. 

So much white. Still...

February 2, 2026. Happy Groundhog's Day!

Porter told me that she loved me very much last night when we were Facetiming. If I could produce tears, I would have cried. She is also planning to paint my fingernails blue the next time I visit. This is what love looks like.

I have no idea what the groundhog saw or didn't see today, but I am expecting 6 more weeks of winter. We live in frickin' Michigan, after all. I have seen an uptick in birds flitting in the bushes in the backyard, however, so perhaps they know something I don't. 

So after 56 years of Friday night date nights, we experimented with an early Sunday dinner date this past weekend. I've roughly calculated (taking into account vacations, etc.) that I have planned, prepped, cooked, and cleaned up more than 2600 Sunday dinners over the past 54 years, so this was a departure. The jury is still out on what we will do going forward, but we did have a nice dinner at Knight's Downtown yesterday.

Our snow covered landscape identifies as winter.

February 1, 2026

Kathy and I went to the Masonic Temple last night to watch Shannon (aka #144 Tortuous Intent) compete in a roller derby game between the D Funk Allstars and the Devil's Night Dames. Shannon skates for the Devil's Night Dames. The final score was 200 to 149. Shannon mentioned after the game that her team has not won a game this season. Ouch!  But we had fun. Jerry, Marilyn, and Joel were also at the game. And I believe Darrell was there in an official capacity.

Also, kudos to Kathy for her cool composure while driving. The Red Wings game ended and traffic was diverted on our chosen route. So the route to find parking was challenging. We only drove around one barricade. Shhh, don't tell.

Cold weather continues, but we have enjoyed a few blue sky sunny days, which have lifted my spirits. Today is the first day of February, which gives me hope. I have no doubt that the groundhog will see his shadow tomorrow, but six more weeks of winter is better than some of the alternatives.

In America, paying due deference to the creature's importance is our national mythology, it is left to the ground-hog to decide the day, and so the fate of the season. He is supposed to come out of his hole on that day, and take a look at the world. If it is a bright day, he will see his shadow on the ground, and, taking fright at it, will run back into his home and stay there. A fresh attack of winter will set in, and he will be justified in the steps he has taken. If it is cloudy, he will cast no shadow, take no fright, and gives us no further attack of winter. ~Hartford Courant, 1877

January 28, 2026

Sometimes my dreams leave me wondering why I go where I go in my sleeping life. Last night's dreams had Tricia staying with me. I walked into the bedroom she was using to retrieve something and found a photo of me with Paul McCartney and John Lennon on a city street. I looked about 15 and had a short shaggy haircut. And I woke up with the song She's a Rainbow buzzing in my head. Which ironically is a Rolling Stone's song, not the Beatles. My short analysis is that Kathy and I have been talking about Tricia's upcoming birthday. I received a message from Byrne in response to the reunion inquiries in which he remembers 15-16 year-old me. Not sure about the short hair, but Xfinity is running an ad featuring the She's a Rainbow music. A jumbo of unrelated events developed into a dream.

I have received responses to my Pedit reunion inquiries from most of the McShanes, and Jolie and Byrne Pedit, who both sounded very iffy. No word yet from Holly or Andrea. Bern's kids have the furthest to travel, so I am not surprised. Kathy has had contact with Carolyn, but no feedback yet from Cyndy or Arden. Linda Ellis and Lawrence McShane are both deceased.  As are Arden's wife Helen and Cyndy's husband Dan. One benefit of trying to contact people you haven't seen in 50-60 years is that I have managed to get an updated list of most email addresses.  I am leaning toward announcing a date and accepting that many will not be able to attend due to travel or health issues. The reality is we and our first cousins are 60-80 plus years old at this point.

I looked up at the sun this morning and it looked like a pale ball in a sea of gray. I wish I had taken a photo.

January 26, 2026

Ann Arbor schools are closed again today. And with a negative 15 degrees feels-like temp anticipated tomorrow morning, school closings may repeat. The rec building is also closed today as clean-up continues from last week's flooding. Kathy and I headed to Briarwood to join the mall walkers this morning. We also checked out the sales at Macy's.

I google-chatted with a former coworker today. I consider her a friend. Interestingly, she is also a Trumper. It was good to catch up. She currently lives in Orqueoc, MI - which I believe is close to Cheboygan. I'd like to visit her someday. 

I looked outside. It is still winter.

January 25, 2026

“Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, In the bleak mid-winter Long ago.” — Christina Rossetti, “In the Bleak Midwinter”

January 23, 2026

Over the years, I've received warnings from co-workers and family for my use or consumption of the following:  statins, GLP-1s, bread, and diet soda.  I can't say that I have done extensive research on the dangers associated with any of these, but it's my understanding that statins are associated with side effects like muscle pain, but also possible cognitive issues. Unknown long-term health effects seem to be the culprit for GLP-1s.  Diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners, which I guess are supposedly bad for you.  And bread adds extra carbs. I'll take my chances. And please do not send me articles supporting your position - I can do my own research. In the end, it's about personal choices after weighing  the risks vs.the benefits. I support your choices, but please do not criticize mine. To my face anyway.

I've been knitting and crocheting practice pieces in an effort to see how much stitch memory I've retained from years ago. I used to crochet avidly, and am finding just doing simple stitches and trying to remember how I used to hold the yarn a relearning experience. We are knitting a scarf in the Fiber Arts class I am taking at the Senior Center.  I ended up finishing it at home. Admittedly, I did have to look up how to cast off stitches when I got to the last row. But it's coming back.

This evening, we went to the AA Senior Center to support a former neighbor who was having an art exhibition. I'm glad we went. They seemed surprised and pleased to see us. Their son was friends with Sean growing up.  And it was nice to catch up.

January 22, 2026

I hate bringing this incident up, but it was mentioned today in a conversation. A rift between my husband and my brother happened some years ago. My husband made negative comments on his blog about my brother. I find it interesting, however, that to my knowledge, my brother has never asked what provoked my husband to do so.  And while I don't condone what was said and the hurt it caused my brother, my husbands words weren't said randomly. And I didn't appreciate the hurt I felt being caught in the cross fire. And as much as I'd like this incident to be in the past, I don't suppose it ever will be. I wish things were different, but life isn't that simple or kind.

Frigid temperatures continue to be in our future. Washtenaw County buildings, including the rec building, are closed tomorrow due to the sub-zero temps. The polar freeze is on. I will miss my exercise routine.

Saturday, family is getting together to celebrate Donna's birthday at the Olive Garden. Birthdays seem less significant as we age, but still worth acknowledging. 

January 21, 2026

As I lay in bed last night trying to fall asleep, I started to think about how when I think about deceased loved ones, I think about a version of them, that is often not in sync with who they were when they passed away. For example, Dad is a younger, kinder version of himself in my memories. Even though I am aware that he was often cruel to Mom and others. Perhaps, this is a coping mechanism?

I heard a couple of ladies in the weight room this morning, talking about how much they love winter. For the record, I tolerate winter. I appreciate it's beauty and stillness but much prefer summer's heat. And being outdoors without layers and layers of clothing.

"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer." – Albert Camus

January 19, 2026

National Parks are no longer free on Martin Luther King Jr. Day as of January 2026, following a change by the National Park Service (NPS) that removed MLK Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the fee-free holiday calendar, replacing them with other days, including President Trump's birthday. Another example of Trump's pettiness and egotism. 

I asked Porter if she was off of school today because it's a holiday, and she said "no, it's just a day off."  I then asked her if she has ever heard of Martin Luther King. She said "no, I think it is a pretend person." I acknowledge that preschool may be a bit young to be studying this part of our history.  But apparently, Trump has the same knowledge level as a four year old when it comes to Black History.

I am back in the knitting business. Kathy took me to Hobby Lobby today for yarn.  Let the needle clicking and yarn looping begin.

And it is cold. Temps are dropping as low as -10 degrees over the next week (and that is without factoring in the real feel of wind chill).  Michigan, my Michigan....

January 18. 2026

Fortunately, I've rebounded and feel fine.  If only it were 50 degrees warmer, I'd be a happier woman.

My senior center Fiber Art scarf project is on hold. I ran out of yarn. I am hoping to go to Hobby Lobby to pick up a couple more skeins tomorrow.

Kathy and I decided to resurrect plans to have a Pedit family reunion. I sent an inquiry to the first cousins I had email addresses for to gauge interest, and have heard back from the McShanes so far. Who, by the way, indicated interest. I also did a little research on banquet venues, and it looks like we may need to charge $50-$65 per person, which may be an obsacle for some people.  Cheaper options exist - having something at one of the metroparks or even something at my house are also options. But also a lot more work.  

January 17, 2026

I wish I knew for certain if I have a stomach virus or food poisoning. Because symptoms developed quickly, I am leaning toward food poisoning. Regardless, I spent an unpleasant night sitting on the bathroom floor vomiting my dinner into the toilet. My gut is still tender, but the cramping is gone. I am going easy on eating today - toast, half a bagel, a banana, and brothy soup with crackers. And I am trying to hydrate. I do not want a repeat of last night.  

January 16, 2026

I stand with Denmark on this one. USA's latest world stage moments are in the WTF category. I hope that European countries know that not all Americans support Trump's illusions of grandeur.

Our new dresser was delivered today. We paid for the whote glove service, which includes setting up the dresser and removing all packing material. I was left with snowy muddy puddles on my hardwood floors, small styrofoam pieces everywhere, and packing materials left in one of the drawers. In fairness to the delivery guys, it's a snowy mess outside and tracking in dirty snow was unavoidable. But they also borrowed our drill and bits, which surprised me as I would think they would have the appropriate drill bits. I vacuumed and mopped and all is good, except Michael mentioned he's been unable to remove the drill bit from his drill. Oh well,,,

Kathy and I joined the Ann Arbor Senior Center yesterday. I signed up for a Fiber Arts class and attended my first session on knitting this morning. And am on my way to making a scarf. I was hoping the senior center would have  a room where seniors could casually hang out but that doesn't seem to be the case. I'll have to be old somewhere else, I suppose.

January 14, 2026

I, with Michael's buy-in, made the decision to replace our tall dresser with a lower one. Today we moved the tall dresser to the guest room in the basement. And it was heavy. Very, very heavy. And Michael mentioned more than once he wished Butch was helping him, not me. I take no offense. I've selected a dresser from Gardner White and hope to finalize the sale tomorrow. My clothes are currently in neat stacks on my office floor. I see this as an opportunity to purge some clothing that is either worn or I don't wear anymore.

Not surprisingly, it is snowing again. And it's coming down hard.

"It was one of those bitter mornings when the whole of nature is shiny, brittle, and hard, like crystal. The trees, decked out in frost, seem to have sweated ice; the earth resounds beneath one's feet; the tiniest sounds carry a long way in the dry air; the blue sky is bright as a mirror, and the sun moves through space in icy brilliance, casting on the frozen world rays which bestow no warmth upon anything.”    Robert Byrne

January 11, 2026

Three plane delays later, Kathy and I finally returned to Michigan. And snow. And despite leaving a temperate climate and Joe's southern hospitality, it is good to be home. I am unpacked and tackled several chores this morning. I noticed a fine layer of dust in certain areas of the basement related to our recent  sewer job, so tackled mopping the guest room floor and wiping down appliance tops and a few shelves. Michael did a first clean-up so it wasn't too bad. Plants are watered. Beds are stripped and I'm on my second load of laundry. And plan to grocery shop today.

I return to the rec center tomorrow. I got some walking in while visiting Joe, but not as much as I would have liked. I also need to get back to my strength training routine and am looking forward to the strrength and balance class I have been attending this past year. 

Routines, you gotta love them...

January 9, 2026

My mind has been swirling with thoughts about mortality. It hit me at Steve's funeral that it is now my generation that is dying. Both parents have passed away and my mother's brother Max is my last living uncle. And now it's me, my spouse, my siblings and their spouses, and cousins that are at risk. And while all seven of my siblings are alive, a few of us are now in our seventies, so I suppose it's only a matter of time. Tick, tick, tick...

We spent today visiting a hodgepodge of places including: Al's Diner,  Paynes Antique English Stained Glass (very interesting place, by the way), Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm,  J.R. Moore & Son General Store (moonpies and cans of pig brains),  Ole Gilliam Mill Covered Bridge, Gravestone (for an evil buried TV), Bynum Bridge, Blackwood Station Outfitters, Allan & Son BBQ (great hushpuppies), and finally MOD (pizza).

We head home tomorrow. I am looking forward to seeing the Doveman. And a big thanks to Joe for driving miles and miles and being an accommodating host.  Kathy and I enjoyed our stay.

January 8, 2026

I love my country, but it feel like the United States has gone bonkers.

We did not go to Greensboro today; we went to Hillsborough instead. We walked about a mile and a half on their Riverwalk along the Eno River. And then walked the few blocks that make up their downtown area, stopping at a few businesses along the way. Afterwards, we headed to Chapel Hill to eat lunch at the Cosmic Cantina. Which was as good as I remembered it to be from prior trips. We also visited the Ackland Art Museum at UNC, which is  just the right size for a quick art fix. They have a surprisingly diverse collection for their size.

I called Michael for a quick update on the sewer pipe replacement that happened a few days ago. I am glad we had it done - especially after hearing about some of the more disgusting details. 

Well, back to my Mayberry R.F.D. moment. See y'all back in Michigan in a few days.

January 7, 2026

Joe, Kathy, and I attended cousin Steve's memorial service and burial today in Fayetteville. It was nice meeting his brother Mike Pate's wife Daysl, daughter Angela, and grandaughter Abby. Also in attendance were Aimee's sisters, Susan and Kim, who surprisingly recognized me. I had forgotten Steve served in the Air Force, and found myself quite touched by the grave site flag folding ceremony and the playing of taps. It was very solemn. It can be viewed at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X4XPbKgtZNRLgAfjuxIg8dDj3Kz4Blmk/view?usp=share_link

Tomorrow, we may go to Greensboro. I am loving NC's city names - Pittsboro, Greensboro, Siler City, Mt Airy - makes me feel like I am in an episode of the Andy Griffith show.  Golly...

January 6, 2026

Kathy and I booked aisle seats in the same row. When I got on the plane, a woman with a baby was sitting in my seat with two more little ones in the two seats next to her. I didn't have the heart to ask her to give up the seat. It turned out she was booked in the middle seat next to Kathy, so it worked out, but there were some awkward moments.

Regardless, we made it to North Carolina safely and have settled into Joe's home. We hit up a few thrift stores this evening before heading to Carolina Brewing for dinner.

Meanwhile back in Ann Arbor, Michael was dealing with Dynamic Drains as they broke up our basement floor to replace a broken sewer pipe. And a swarm of gnats was found under the floor, which for some reason sounds like a scene out of a horror movie. 

Tomorrow is Stephen Pate's Memorial Service in Fayetteville. It will be interesting to see what family members show up. Admittedly, I am not close to any of them. But I am still curious.

January 5, 2026

Ollie or Oliver is a black cat that lives down the street from us. He likes to go for walks, not only with his owner, but also passing neighbors. Yesterday, one of the neighbor girls came by our house selling girl scout cookies, And Ollie sat patiently on our front porch waiting for her. Today, he was out for a walk with his owner wearing a little red plaid coat. It's hard not to love his personality. He visits our back yard often and always makes me smile.

I am mostly packed for tomorrow morning's flight to North Carilina. I am well aware that I overpacked, but I found myself unsure what to bring. Temps in the afternoons look like they will be in the 60's - maybe too cold for shorts and short sleeves? But too warm for sweaters?

Tomorrow is also D-Day for our sewer repair, which I believe is a major stress factor for Michael. And I am both relieved and feeling a little guilty about not being here. The idea of having our basement floor dug up is daunting.

There are a few things I try to avoid on this blog - a major one is politics. But I also try to be sensitive to family members feelings, which isn't always easy to do.

January 4, 2026

Lately, I find myself looking and feeling more tired than usual. I blame it on the weather. The norm for me when temperatures were comfortable enough to be outside, was sitting and reading in a sunny spot or walking. And I mentally and physically miss the warmth the sun provided in those moments.

I finished working on the last half of 2025's photo book. One more proofreading and it's off to Shutterfly for printing. And within the next few weeks, I'll kick off 2026's edition. I am well aware that my photo books are not works of art, but I find it personally satisfying to have a venue to organize my photographs and thoughts. And these books, along with this blog, both spanning back several years, are great resource materials when I am trying to remember when a life event occurred. 

And for the record, it is still snowy.  And a quote. January is the beginning of anything you want.

January 2, 2026

Today would have been my mother's 95th birthday. Kathy and I ate lunch at the Big Boys she used to go to in Livonia in her memory. Both of us wishing we could spend at least one more day with her. I still miss her. I always will.

We drove by the house on Lennane. It's looking a little run-down. I have a lot of memories of sitting on the front porch with Mom. We also took a trip down memory lane and drove down Beech Daly. I was surprised to see Mamma Mias is still open. I remember eating there in the 1960s and naively thinking it was a semi-swanky restaurant. Kathy and I added it to our 2026 bucket list. Which also includes visiting all 162 Ann Arbor City parks. And possibly joining the senior center.

 Kathy and I  are heading to North Carolina next week to attend Stephen Pate's Memorial Service. He is being buried at Camp Ground Methodist Cemetery. It seems appropriate that we will also be able to visit Mom's grave site.  "Her absence is like the sky, spread over everything,"  - C.S. Lewis.

January 1, 2026

When Porter was here for Christmas, she asked me to remove the lamps from her bedroom because they were too "tempting." She turned them on in the middle of the night a few times only to then complain about difficulties falling back to sleep. And I smiled in amusement as I removed her room's dastardly tempting lamps.  This reminded me that I would like to thank everyone that made me smile last year.  Whether it was something you said or some small act of kindness, I thank you.

Kathy and I dropped by Butch and April's house today to see Paul and Fiona. They spent the night, so Celina and Michael could have an evening to themselves. Fiona was napping when we arrived and Paul was playing video games with grandpa. We were lucky enough to still be there when Celina and Michael picked them up, so we got to visit with them for a few minutes as well.

And snow flurries continued today.

February 1, 2026

Kathy and I went to the Masonic Temple last night to watch Shannon (aka #144 Tortuous Intent) compete in a roller derby game between the D Funk Allstars and the Devil's Night Dames. Shannon skates for the Devil's Night Dames. The final score was 200 to 149. Shannon mentioned after the game that her team has not won a game this season. Ouch!  But we had fun. Jerry, Marilyn, and Joel were also at the game. And I believe Darrell was there in an official capacity.

Also, kudos to Kathy for her cool composure while driving. The Red Wings game ended and traffic was diverted on our chosen route. So the route to find parking was challenging. We only drove around one barricade. Shhh, don't tell.

Cold weather continues, but we have enjoyed a few blue sky sunny days, which have lifted my spirits. Today is the first day of February, which gives me hope. I have no doubt that the groundhog will see his shadow tomorrow, but six more weeks of winter is better than the alternative. 

In America, paying due deference to the creature's importance is our national mythology, it is left to the ground-hog to decide the day, and so the fate of the season. He is supposed to come out of his hole on that day, and take a look at the world. If it is a bright day, he will see his shadow on the ground, and, taking fright at it, will run back into his home and stay there. A fresh attack of winter will set in, and he will be justified in the steps he has taken. If it is cloudy, he will cast no shadow, take no fright, and gives us no further attack of winter. ~Hartford Courant, 1877

January 28, 2026

Sometimes my dreams leave me wondering why I go where I go in my sleeping life. Last night's dreams had Tricia staying with me. I walked into the bedroom she was using to retrieve something and found a photo of me with Paul McCartney and John Lennon on a city street. I looked about 15 and had a short shaggy haircut. And I woke up with the song She's a Rainbow buzzing in my head. Which ironically is a Rolling Stone's song, not the Beatles. My short analysis is that Kathy and I have been talking about Tricia's upcoming birthday. I received a message from Byrne in response to the reunion inquiries in which he remembers 15-16 year-old me. Not sure about the short hair, but Xfinity is running an ad featuring the She's a Rainbow music. A jumbo of unrelated events developed into a dream.

I have received responses to my Pedit reunion inquiries from most of the McShanes, and Jolie and Byrne Pedit, who both sounded very iffy. No word yet from Holly or Andrea. Bern's kids have the furthest to travel, so I am not surprised. Kathy has had contact with Carolyn, but no feedback yet from Cyndy or Arden. Linda Ellis and Lawrence McShane are both deceased.  As are Arden's wife Helen and Cyndy's husband Dan. One benefit of trying to contact people you haven't seen in 50-60 years is that I have managed to get an updated list of most email addresses.  I am leaning toward announcing a date and accepting that many will not be able to attend due to travel or health issues. The reality is we and our first cousins are 60-80 plus years old at this point.

I looked up at the sun this morning and it looked like a pale ball in a sea of gray. I wish I had taken a photo.

January 26, 2026

Ann Arbor schools are closed again today. And with a negative 15 degrees feels-like temp anticipated tomorrow morning, school closings may repeat. The rec building is also closed today as clean-up continues from last week's flooding. Kathy and I headed to Briarwood to join the mall walkers this morning. We also checked out the sales at Macy's.

I google-chatted with a former coworker today. I consider her a friend. Interestingly, she is also a Trumper. It was good to catch up. She currently lives in Orqueoc, MI - which I believe is close to Cheboygan. I'd like to visit her someday. 

I looked outside. It is still winter.

January 25, 2026

“Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, In the bleak mid-winter Long ago.” — Christina Rossetti, “In the Bleak Midwinter”

January 23, 2026

Over the years, I've received warnings from co-workers and family for my use or consumption of the following:  statins, GLP-1s, bread, and diet soda.  I can't say that I have done extensive research on the dangers associated with any of these, but it's my understanding that statins are associated with side effects like muscle pain, but also possible cognitive issues. Unknown long-term health effects seem to be the culprit for GLP-1s.  Diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners, which I guess are supposedly bad for you.  And bread adds extra carbs. I'll take my chances. And please do not send me articles supporting your position - I can do my own research. In the end, it's about personal choices after weighing  the risks vs.the benefits. I support your choices, but please do not criticize mine. To my face anyway.

I've been knitting and crocheting practice pieces in an effort to see how much stitch memory I've retained from years ago. I used to crochet avidly, and am finding just doing simple stitches and trying to remember how I used to hold the yarn a relearning experience. We are knitting a scarf in the Fiber Arts class I am taking at the Senior Center.  I ended up finishing it at home. Admittedly, I did have to look up how to cast off stitches when I got to the last row. But it's coming back.

This evening, we went to the AA Senior Center to support a former neighbor who was having an art exhibition. I'm glad we went. They seemed surprised and pleased to see us. Their son was friends with Sean growing up.  And it was nice to catch up.

January 22, 2026

I hate bringing this incident up, but it was mentioned today in a conversation. A rift between my husband and my brother happened some years ago. My husband made negative comments on his blog about my brother. I find it interesting, however, that to my knowledge, my brother has never asked what provoked my husband to do so.  And while I don't condone what was said and the hurt it caused my brother, my husbands words weren't said randomly. And I didn't appreciate the hurt I felt being caught in the cross fire. And as much as I'd like this incident to be in the past, I don't suppose it ever will be. I wish things were different, but life isn't that simple or kind.

Frigid temperatures continue to be in our future. Washtenaw County buildings, including the rec building, are closed tomorrow due to the sub-zero temps. The polar freeze is on. I will miss my exercise routine.

Saturday, family is getting together to celebrate Donna's birthday at the Olive Garden. Birthdays seem less significant as we age, but still worth acknowledging. 

January 21, 2026

As I lay in bed last night trying to fall asleep, I started to think about how when I think about deceased loved ones, I think about a version of them, that is often not in sync with who they were when they passed away. For example, Dad is a younger, kinder version of himself in my memories. Even though I am aware that he was often cruel to Mom and others. Perhaps, this is a coping mechanism?

I heard a couple of ladies in the weight room this morning, talking about how much they love winter. For the record, I tolerate winter. I appreciate it's beauty and stillness but much prefer summer's heat. And being outdoors without layers and layers of clothing.

"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer." – Albert Camus

January 19, 2026

National Parks are no longer free on Martin Luther King Jr. Day as of January 2026, following a change by the National Park Service (NPS) that removed MLK Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the fee-free holiday calendar, replacing them with other days, including President Trump's birthday. Another example of Trump's pettiness and egotism. 

I asked Porter if she was off of school today because it's a holiday, and she said "no, it's just a day off."  I then asked her if she has ever heard of Martin Luther King. She said "no, I think it is a pretend person." I acknowledge that preschool may be a bit young to be studying this part of our history.  But apparently, Trump has the same knowledge level as a four year old when it comes to Black History.

I am back in the knitting business. Kathy took me to Hobby Lobby today for yarn.  Let the needle clicking and yarn looping begin.

And it is cold. Temps are dropping as low as -10 degrees over the next week (and that is without factoring in the real feel of wind chill).  Michigan, my Michigan....

January 18. 2026

Fortunately, I've rebounded and feel fine.  If only it were 50 degrees warmer, I'd be a happier woman.

My senior center Fiber Art scarf project is on hold. I ran out of yarn. I am hoping to go to Hobby Lobby to pick up a couple more skeins tomorrow.

Kathy and I decided to resurrect plans to have a Pedit family reunion. I sent an inquiry to the first cousins I had email addresses for to gauge interest, and have heard back from the McShanes so far. Who, by the way, indicated interest. I also did a little research on banquet venues, and it looks like we may need to charge $50-$65 per person, which may be an obsacle for some people.  Cheaper options exist - having something at one of the metroparks or even something at my house are also options. But also a lot more work.  

January 17, 2026

I wish I knew for certain if I have a stomach virus or food poisoning. Because symptoms developed quickly, I am leaning toward food poisoning. Regardless, I spent an unpleasant night sitting on the bathroom floor vomiting my dinner into the toilet. My gut is still tender, but the cramping is gone. I am going easy on eating today - toast, half a bagel, a banana, and brothy soup with crackers. And I am trying to hydrate. I do not want a repeat of last night.  

January 16, 2026

I stand with Denmark on this one. USA's latest world stage moments are in the WTF category. I hope that European countries know that not all Americans support Trump's illusions of grandeur.

Our new dresser was delivered today. We paid for the whote glove service, which includes setting up the dresser and removing all packing material. I was left with snowy muddy puddles on my hardwood floors, small styrofoam pieces everywhere, and packing materials left in one of the drawers. In fairness to the delivery guys, it's a snowy mess outside and tracking in dirty snow was unavoidable. But they also borrowed our drill and bits, which surprised me as I would think they would have the appropriate drill bits. I vacuumed and mopped and all is good, except Michael mentioned he's been unable to remove the drill bit from his drill. Oh well,,,

Kathy and I joined the Ann Arbor Senior Center yesterday. I signed up for a Fiber Arts class and attended my first session on knitting this morning. And am on my way to making a scarf. I was hoping the senior center would have  a room where seniors could casually hang out but that doesn't seem to be the case. I'll have to be old somewhere else, I suppose.

January 14, 2026

I, with Michael's buy-in, made the decision to replace our tall dresser with a lower one. Today we moved the tall dresser to the guest room in the basement. And it was heavy. Very, very heavy. And Michael mentioned more than once he wished Butch was helping him, not me. I take no offense. I've selected a dresser from Gardner White and hope to finalize the sale tomorrow. My clothes are currently in neat stacks on my office floor. I see this as an opportunity to purge some clothing that is either worn or I don't wear anymore.

Not surprisingly, it is snowing again. And it's coming down hard.

"It was one of those bitter mornings when the whole of nature is shiny, brittle, and hard, like crystal. The trees, decked out in frost, seem to have sweated ice; the earth resounds beneath one's feet; the tiniest sounds carry a long way in the dry air; the blue sky is bright as a mirror, and the sun moves through space in icy brilliance, casting on the frozen world rays which bestow no warmth upon anything.”    Robert Byrne

January 11, 2026

Three plane delays later, Kathy and I finally returned to Michigan. And snow. And despite leaving a temperate climate and Joe's southern hospitality, it is good to be home. I am unpacked and tackled several chores this morning. I noticed a fine layer of dust in certain areas of the basement related to our recent  sewer job, so tackled mopping the guest room floor and wiping down appliance tops and a few shelves. Michael did a first clean-up so it wasn't too bad. Plants are watered. Beds are stripped and I'm on my second load of laundry. And plan to grocery shop today.

I return to the rec center tomorrow. I got some walking in while visiting Joe, but not as much as I would have liked. I also need to get back to my strength training routine and am looking forward to the strrength and balance class I have been attending this past year. 

Routines, you gotta love them...

January 9, 2026

My mind has been swirling with thoughts about mortality. It hit me at Steve's funeral that it is now my generation that is dying. Both parents have passed away and my mother's brother Max is my last living uncle. And now it's me, my spouse, my siblings and their spouses, and cousins that are at risk. And while all seven of my siblings are alive, a few of us are now in our seventies, so I suppose it's only a matter of time. Tick, tick, tick...

We spent today visiting a hodgepodge of places including: Al's Diner,  Paynes Antique English Stained Glass (very interesting place, by the way), Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm,  J.R. Moore & Son General Store (moonpies and cans of pig brains),  Ole Gilliam Mill Covered Bridge, Gravestone (for an evil buried TV), Bynum Bridge, Blackwood Station Outfitters, Allan & Son BBQ (great hushpuppies), and finally MOD (pizza).

We head home tomorrow. I am looking forward to seeing the Doveman. And a big thanks to Joe for driving miles and miles and being an accommodating host.  Kathy and I enjoyed our stay.

January 8, 2026

I love my country, but it feel like the United States has gone bonkers.

We did not go to Greensboro today; we went to Hillsborough instead. We walked about a mile and a half on their Riverwalk along the Eno River. And then walked the few blocks that make up their downtown area, stopping at a few businesses along the way. Afterwards, we headed to Chapel Hill to eat lunch at the Cosmic Cantina. Which was as good as I remembered it to be from prior trips. We also visited the Ackland Art Museum at UNC, which is  just the right size for a quick art fix. They have a surprisingly diverse collection for their size.

I called Michael for a quick update on the sewer pipe replacement that happened a few days ago. I am glad we had it done - especially after hearing about some of the more disgusting details. 

Well, back to my Mayberry R.F.D. moment. See y'all back in Michigan in a few days.

January 7, 2026

Joe, Kathy, and I attended cousin Steve's memorial service and burial today in Fayetteville. It was nice meeting his brother Mike Pate's wife Daysl, daughter Angela, and grandaughter Abby. Also in attendance were Aimee's sisters, Susan and Kim, who surprisingly recognized me. I had forgotten Steve served in the Air Force, and found myself quite touched by the grave site flag folding ceremony and the playing of taps. It was very solemn. It can be viewed at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X4XPbKgtZNRLgAfjuxIg8dDj3Kz4Blmk/view?usp=share_link

Tomorrow, we may go to Greensboro. I am loving NC's city names - Pittsboro, Greensboro, Siler City, Mt Airy - makes me feel like I am in an episode of the Andy Griffith show.  Golly...

January 6, 2026

Kathy and I booked aisle seats in the same row. When I got on the plane, a woman with a baby was sitting in my seat with two more little ones in the two seats next to her. I didn't have the heart to ask her to give up the seat. It turned out she was booked in the middle seat next to Kathy, so it worked out, but there were some awkward moments.

Regardless, we made it to North Carolina safely and have settled into Joe's home. We hit up a few thrift stores this evening before heading to Carolina Brewing for dinner.

Meanwhile back in Ann Arbor, Michael was dealing with Dynamic Drains as they broke up our basement floor to replace a broken sewer pipe. And a swarm of gnats was found under the floor, which for some reason sounds like a scene out of a horror movie. 

Tomorrow is Stephen Pate's Memorial Service in Fayetteville. It will be interesting to see what family members show up. Admittedly, I am not close to any of them. But I am still curious.

January 5, 2026

Ollie or Oliver is a black cat that lives down the street from us. He likes to go for walks, not only with his owner, but also passing neighbors. Yesterday, one of the neighbor girls came by our house selling girl scout cookies, And Ollie sat patiently on our front porch waiting for her. Today, he was out for a walk with his owner wearing a little red plaid coat. It's hard not to love his personality. He visits our back yard often and always makes me smile.

I am mostly packed for tomorrow morning's flight to North Carilina. I am well aware that I overpacked, but I found myself unsure what to bring. Temps in the afternoons look like they will be in the 60's - maybe too cold for shorts and short sleeves? But too warm for sweaters?

Tomorrow is also D-Day for our sewer repair, which I believe is a major stress factor for Michael. And I am both relieved and feeling a little guilty about not being here. The idea of having our basement floor dug up is daunting.

There are a few things I try to avoid on this blog - a major one is politics. But I also try to be sensitive to family members feelings, which isn't always easy to do.

January 4, 2026

Lately, I find myself looking and feeling more tired than usual. I blame it on the weather. The norm for me when temperatures were comfortable enough to be outside, was sitting and reading in a sunny spot or walking. And I mentally and physically miss the warmth the sun provided in those moments.

I finished working on the last half of 2025's photo book. One more proofreading and it's off to Shutterfly for printing. And within the next few weeks, I'll kick off 2026's edition. I am well aware that my photo books are not works of art, but I find it personally satisfying to have a venue to organize my photographs and thoughts. And these books, along with this blog, both spanning back several years, are great resource materials when I am trying to remember when a life event occurred. 

And for the record, it is still snowy.  And a quote. January is the beginning of anything you want.

January 2, 2026

Today would have been my mother's 95th birthday. Kathy and I ate lunch at the Big Boys she used to go to in Livonia in her memory. Both of us wishing we could spend at least one more day with her. I still miss her. I always will.

We drove by the house on Lennane. It's looking a little run-down. I have a lot of memories of sitting on the front porch with Mom. We also took a trip down memory lane and drove down Beech Daly. I was surprised to see Mamma Mias is still open. I remember eating there in the 1960s and naively thinking it was a semi-swanky restaurant. Kathy and I added it to our 2026 bucket list. Which also includes visiting all 162 Ann Arbor City parks. And possibly joining the senior center.

 Kathy and I  are heading to North Carolina next week to attend Stephen Pate's Memorial Service. He is being buried at Camp Ground Methodist Cemetery. It seems appropriate that we will also be able to visit Mom's grave site.  "Her absence is like the sky, spread over everything,"  - C.S. Lewis.

January 1, 2026

When Porter was here for Christmas, she asked me to remove the lamps from her bedroom because they were too "tempting." She turned them on in the middle of the night a few times only to then complain about difficulties falling back to sleep. And I smiled in amusement as I removed her room's dastardly tempting lamps.  This reminded me that I would like to thank everyone that made me smile last year.  Whether it was something you said or some small act of kindness, I thank you.

Kathy and I dropped by Butch and April's house today to see Paul and Fiona. They spent the night, so Celina and Michael could have an evening to themselves. Fiona was napping when we arrived and Paul was playing video games with grandpa. We were lucky enough to still be there when Celina and Michael picked them up, so we got to visit with them for a few minutes as well.

And snow flurries continued today.