Bill's World

Bob's 51st Birthday

2012-02-04T00:36:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, my brother celebrated his birthday! The celebration started with an electrical wire falling and catching on fire just before we walked by it on Tampa Avenue! Bob called the Fire Department! After Bob discussed what he witnessed, we walked to State Road and Dawning Ave. to catch a bus to the Denny's by Parmatown Mall. Bob received a coupon for a Free Build Your Own Grand Slam! I also had a Build Your Own Grand Slam. Bob ordered the Original Grand Slam, but he received the Everyday Value Slam with added cheese! As a result, my more expensive Grand Slam was the free one!

After lunch, we enjoyed BOGO Blizzards from Dairy Queen in Parmatown Mall because we are in the Blizzard Fan Club. We both had Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Blizzards that were tasty! We also enjoyed Pretzel Dog samples from Auntie Anne's. Otherwise, we did not buy anything from the mall.

When we were finished in the mall, we boarded a bus to go to State and Snow Roads. We then walked to the Parma-Snow Library, so I could pick up a CD that I had ordered! We also used the library's facilities.

We ended the celebration with dinner at the adjacent Eat 'N' Park restaurant! Bob had Rosemary Chicken. I had Salmon. We also had Cookie Fudge Fantasy Sundaes! The cookies and our cinnamon rolls were eaten for our late night snack! The food was tasty!! We then spent the rest of the evening relaxing!!

Bob's birthday was one to remember!

My Afternoon at the Rock Hall

2012-01-16T16:53:00.000-05:00

Today, I honored the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Downtown Cleveland. The trip started off with a Ham and Turkey Sandwich on Multigrain Flatbread for lunch at Quizno's in the Galleria at Erieview, which is a few blocks away from the Rock Hall. After lunch, I then walked down to the Rock Hall. After a fifteen minute wait (Outside and Inside), I was finally able to enjoy the exhibits. The area of music grouped by city and region was pretty impressive! The Women in Rock exhibit was comprehensive! However, as a temporary exhibit, it is on the two most cramped floors of the Rock Hall. Since it was a free day, the museum was very crowded! Despite the crowds, I was able to spend some time looking at the signatures of the Inductees! The walkway is very narrow, but the exhibit is on one side of the corridor. Before I went to the upper floors, I watched part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Concert! When I arrived in the theater, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band were performing! Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel's performances of "New York State of Mind" and "Born to Run" were incredible. After the program concluded, the video immediately started over! I stayed until Stevie Wonder started performing because Ledisi (Grammy Nominated R&B artist) was scheduled to be performing live soon! I had a good view of her as I was on my way out of the building! The crowd loved her! In general, I enjoyed my experience at the Rock Hall this year! The recent renovations have enhanced the building! I plan to be back next year, if not sooner!

Merry Orthodox Christmas!

2012-01-07T22:42:00.000-05:00

Today is Christmas on the Julian Calendar! I would like to wish anyone celebrating today a Merry Christmas! I did not visit Ziggy's Produce, which is at the corner of Broadview and West Schaaf Roads in Cleveland, to wish them a Merry Christmas, but I may visit tomorrow to ask the clerk if he or she had a nice holiday! (I sometimes buy my lottery tickets there!) Once again, Orthodox Christmas was "ignored" by the general population.

I will update my traditional Christmas in the near Future!

Christmas 2011 (Part 1)

2011-12-31T23:50:00.001-05:00

I had a very nice Christmas! I enjoyed seeing my great-nieces Kendal and Hayden. The rest of the guests were fun, too. The food was very appetizing. Maggie and Mike's new furniture is very nice. Since the couches were covered, they avoided spillage.

I appreciated my Gift Card to Wal Mart that Kendal and Hayden's father Mike "sent" to me. I haven't spent any of it yet, but I will. Kendal and Hayden's Gift Cards to Toys 'R' Us were sent in the mail because I forgot to bring them to the celebration. Since my other great-nieces Amy Marie and Emily were not at the celebration, I mailed the gift cards to them (On time, I hope).

Have a great New Year!!

There Was Cranberry Sauce, but It Was Forgotten.

2011-11-27T22:31:00.000-05:00

When my sister Maggie called our house yesterday, she told my brother Bob that there was cranberry sauce, but she forgot to place it on the table. As a result, it was not served or offered for leftovers. The lack of Cranberry sauce helped to make Thanksgiving interesting.

Thanksgiving and Black Friday

2011-11-26T21:13:00.000-05:00

I had a very nice Thanksgiving! The participants were my sister Maggie, her husband Mike, my brother Joe, my niece Mandy, and her husband Paul. We had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, corn, sweet potatoes, Crescent(?) rolls, gravy, Strawberry Jell-O, and Heavenly Hash (Sometimes known as Ambrosia, it usually involves Mandarin oranges, Maraschino Cherries, coconut, and a few other ingredients. It is a family tradition.) The appetizers were included with the dinner, consisting of Cheesy pretzel rods, Mozzarella sticks, and TGI Friday's Potato Skins. Dessert was Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate cheesecake, and Marie Callender's Coconut Cream pie (It was frozen at dessert time, so I had it later on Thanksgiving night.) The food was all delicious! I didn't even notice that Cranberry Sauce was missing this year until I had leftovers tonight for dinner. I can always buy some when I go shopping. Thankfully, the leftovers will be gone a lot sooner than the ones from my birthday party, but I enjoyed the previous leftovers a lot.

In addition to eating, Mandy, Maggie, and I used plastic body parts to decorate a pumpkin. The Christmas Gift Exchange was started. Bob and I will finish it either tonight or tomorrow. This also happened last year when we were not sure if my niece Marnie and her husband Mike were participating because they backed out the year before because they were planning to buy a house, which was successfully completed about a year and a half ago. I haven't picked yet!

Eventually, Mike drove me home. Paul and Mandy picked me up! I am grateful because carrying mashed potatoes and containers on the bus would be too funny! I spent the rest of the evening relaxing.

On Friday, I visited Rocky River Public Library. After leaving the Library, I went to a nearby Dollar Tree to pick up some cough drops. I missed my bus in the process, but I walked down to Wooster and Detroit Roads (I was at Detroit and Linda when I was at Dollar Tree.) to catch another bus. I took that bus downtown. I barely catch my bus to Dibella's Subs in Independence to take advantage of a BOGO deal that was only good on Black Friday. It wasn't too crowded when I got there, but as I was eating, the line was almost out the door. I had a Turkey, Ham, and Roast Beef Sub on Multigrain Bread. I brought home a Corned Beef Sub on Multigrain Bread. I enjoyed my Sub, but Bob thought his was only average. If they had a Reuben, Bob would have received that instead. I then caught a bus to Marc's in Midtown Plaza in Parma, so I could buy Bob some bananas that were on sale. I didn't have a lot of time to do anything else, because I wanted to catch a bus that was coming soon. (At the time of this trip, the buses run thirteen minutes apart. The first bus was five minutes behind schedule.) Thankfully, the next bus was a little late, so I made it. I then bought lottery tickets for yesterday and today. Once again, I relaxed when I came home.

Eventually, I will tell the stories that I have been wanting to tell.

My Birthday Party

2011-11-03T23:07:00.000-04:00

On October 22, we celebrated my 41st birthday, which was the day before, at my sister Maggie and her husband Mike's house in Parma! We had Take-out Chinese food from Ni's Express on Broadview Road in Parma! Their food is similar to our usual Chinese Restaurant, East China, also on Broadview Road in Parma, but closer to the Northern Cleveland-Parma Border. The food was tasty! We had Chicken with Snow Peas, Chicken Ding with Almonds, Chicken Lo Mein, Beef with Broccoli, white rice (Included with each entree), pork fried rice, won ton soup, crispy noodles (for the soup, but I can eat them out of the bag), and egg rolls! There were fortune cookies, and green tea was also a bonus! I didn't have a fortune cookie, or any tea. The Chinese food was all tasty! There was also a vegetable lasagna and mozzarella sticks, but I didn't enjoy them until they were leftovers! Both were tasty! We also had a yellow cake with chocolate frosting. (It's a little more elaborate than that, but it is a little "complex".) Ruggles Moose Tracks Ice Cream, Marshmallows and Pistachios (My cousin Joanne's, Aunt Rita's only daughter, recipe), "Pink Jello, a Giant Eagle Cheesecake Variety pack, and a Giant Eagle Pumpkin- Cream Cheese Roll. The desserts were spread over a week, and they were all delicious.

The participants were the party hosts, my sister Kathleen, my brothers Joe and Bob, and my niece Mandy. My sister Patty, her husband Dan SR., their son Dan JR, and his daughters Amy Marie and Emily were scheduled to attend, but Patty was quite ill, so they cancelled. It would have been an even better party with them, but I still had fun, despite my coughing problem!

The day was one to remember! There will be more about other events in a future post! Until then, keep having fun!!

My Birthday Activities

2011-10-21T23:26:00.000-04:00

My 41st Birthday was not the most exciting ever, but it was fun. Bob and I went to lunch at Denny's across from Parmatown Mall. I had a Grand Slam with all Fit Fare Items (But I enjoyed the syrup because I forgot to hold the syrup) and Coke. It was okay, but I didn't finish it because I was full. I am also suffering from a bad cough and a mild sore throat.

We then visited Giant Eagle, PetsMart, Kohl's, Target, and various stores in the Parmatown Mall. Lottery tickets were the only non-food purchase of the day. It was uneventful.

After Parmatown Mall, we then went the long way to Qdoba on Broadview Road in Parma. (Walking to Qdoba from Pleasant Valley and State Roads was not in the plans.) We had chicken burritos. I had Cherry Coke. It was okay, but my leftovers came home because we had a bus to catch. After coming home, we relaxed for the rest of the evening.

Tomorrow is the Big Party!!

Happy Birthday, Mandy

2011-10-14T22:15:00.000-04:00

Today is my niece Mandy's Birthday! She and her husband Paul were planning to spend some time at a lodge. I hope that the two of them were able to enjoy themselves today.

There has been a lot of wind and rain in the Cleveland area for the last few days. Before that, the temperature was in the high 70s for a few days. Hopefully, it will be nice again before winter hits us hard.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Happy Anniversary, Dan and Laura

2011-10-04T23:56:00.000-04:00

My nephew Dan JR. and his wife Laura celebrated their eighth Wedding Anniversary today! I hope that they were able to enjoy a peaceful day. Having two young kids can be an adventure. It was fun finding an appropriate present, but I hope that Applebees will be satisfying.

Until next time, keep having fun!!

Happy Belated Birthday, Dan SR.

2011-09-21T00:57:00.000-04:00

On Monday, my brother-in-law Dan celebrated his birthday! My brother Bob and I gave him a Gift Card to Outback Steakhouse, which he appreciated. He also went to Fenway Park on his birthday with his wife Patty to see the Red Sox play and lose! Of course, the Yankees had to win on Monday and Tuesday! Hopefully, the Red Sox will see postseason action. It would be nice if the Yankees stayed home for the postseason, but it probably won't happen.

Once again, Happy Birthday, Dan SR.

A New Experience

2011-09-11T23:33:00.001-04:00

The previous post was produced with Windows Live Writer! It was offered on my Taskbar, so I explored it! Thankfully, if you are reading this, you are at the usual location of this blog! After I composed my last post, Windows Live Writer sent me to my blog! Isn't technology great?

Happy Belated Anniversary, Mike and Marnie

2011-09-11T23:29:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was my niece Marnie and her husband Mike’s Seventh Wedding Anniversary. I hope that they had a nice celebration! It would also be nice if their children Kendal and Hayden behaved themselves!

Kendal and Hayden in Cleveland (Yes, Really)

2011-09-05T21:46:00.000-04:00

Last Tuesday, my brother Bob and I visited with my Great-Nieces Kendal and Hayden. Our sister took us to Chuck E Cheese at Parmatown Plaza. We did not eat there! We just played games! It was a nice time. However, Hayden had a little accident on herself and Bob! I was not part of this scene! As Maggie, Bob, and Hayden went back to Maggie's house to get changes of clothes, I stayed with Kendal! Thankfully, Chuck E. Cheese was not too crowded, so I didn't lose track of Kendal! I did set down our tokens! We eventually found them intact on one of the games. After a few hours, we finally cashed in the tickets! Our 400+ Points merited lollipops, and a little shark for Kendal, among other trinkets, that I can't recall.

After we left Chuck E Cheese, the girls were asked what they wanted for Lunch! Hayden wanted Pizza, and Kendal wanted Breadsticks. If it weren't already decreed that we weren't eating at Chuck E Cheese, their choice for lunch would have been funnier! Since we didn't have Pizza Hut coupons, we picked up Cheese Pizza and Breadsticks from Little Caesar's Pizza in the Pleasant Valley Shopping Center! While Bob ordered the pizza, and Maggie was buying milk at Acme, I stayed with the girls! We then went to Maggie's house, we ate lunch, which also included pudding from containers. The food was delicious, but since the marinara sauce was determined to be too messy, nobody enjoyed it at that meal. We then played with the girls. They played inside and outside. Maggie's neighbors came over to visit and play with the girls. Eventually, their Grandfather Tim and his companion Lois picked up the girls.

After the visitors left, Maggie dropped Bob and me off at the Arby's in Seven Hills! We then took the bus home and relaxed for the rest of the evening. It was a day that will not be forgotten for awhile.

Kendal and Hayden finally saw the outside of our house in Cleveland! I acquired more babysitting experience. By the way, as of August 25, I started a paid babysitting gig with the son and daughter of my brother Bob's co-worker and his wife. I have enjoyed the experience so far. We mostly watch "Curious George" on PBS, since they do not have cable. I do this service for about 40 minutes at a time on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. It is a simple commute as I go through their backyard behind my house! If I am doing this in the winter, I will walk around to get to their house!

I hope that all of my readers and everyone else enjoyed their Labor Day weekend.

Napoleon (Part 2)

2011-08-15T17:07:00.000-04:00

I forgot to mention in my last Post that there was a dog reference in the Gospel reading this weekend! Father Lowe then mentioned in his Homily that he and Father Vesely are guilty of feeding Napoleon table scraps! It was quite amusing! I like Father Lowe!

The rest of the homily dealt with getting to know the people who you ask for favors! Assumption came up because we ask St. Mary for things around this time of year! By the way, Assumption is not a Holy Day of Obligation this year since it falls on a Monday!

Unfortunately, I have no pictures of Napoleon because I do not normally bring a camera into a church! However, I actually offered religious education on this blog! I could have written this post four years ago when I created this blog! It would be better than some of my posts back then before I shared this blog with my immediate family! (My Facebook Friends are welcome to read this blog from the beginning! I may put a "classic" post from the Blog Archives on my Facebook Page to show the evolution of this blog!)

Until next time, enjoy the rest of your summer!

Napoleon

2011-08-14T20:22:00.000-04:00

I was at St. Leo Church on Broadview Road in Cleveland yesterday for 4:00 Mass. Nothing really special occurred during the Mass! After Mass, however, Father Lowe's dog, Napoleon came from the sacristy to the back of the church! It was probably the biggest dog that I have ever seen!

It wasn't my first time seeing Napoleon, though! I was at the Rectory looking for Gloves that I had lost while buying Girl Scout Cookies a few months ago. Before anyone waited on me, this big dog came up to the counter to "handle the task". Unfortunately, the gloves were not there! I should have put the gloves in my coat! If I weren't handling money, the gloves would probably be on my hands! The cookies were delicious, though! The first two boxes were not a problem. The third box was infested with ants, so we did not enjoy the cookies! They were Samoas! We were looking forward to them.

By the way, I enjoyed seeing Napoleon! I hope that the older couple that were in Napoleon's way weren't too startled. I refer to them as "Electric Hair and Aunt Joan", but they are really Dick and Loretta! They were Eucharistic Ministers at one time, but they "retired" from the position a few years ago! I enjoy seeing Dick and Loretta! I have seen them outside church a couple of times, but since I don't have a social relationship with them, I didn't bother them.

Next time, I hope that Napoleon appears during Mass!

Amy and Dave's Address

2011-08-14T20:02:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, my brother Bob and I received our nephew-in-law Dave's Thank You Note from his 30th Birthday last month! As a result, we have his and Amy's address! It was a little unclear, but after some research, I figured out the street name! Eventually, I will send the address to the immediate family that probably does not have the information!

Happy Belated 30th Birthday, Amy

2011-08-13T00:25:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was my niece Amy's 30th Birthday! I hope that she and her husband Dave had a nice celebration! Her gift is in her parents' possession because I don't have their new address in Medway, MA. Eventually, I will get the address from either Amy or Dave!

By the way, I was on time on Amy's Facebook Page!

Happy Birthday, Joe

2011-08-11T20:51:00.001-04:00

Today is my brother Joe's birthday! I hope that he enjoyed a peaceful day! It would also be nice if he received nice presents!

Happy Belated Birthday to This Blog!

2011-08-04T00:52:00.001-04:00

On July 31, 2007, this blog debuted! Since I didn't tell most of my immediate family about it until October 2007, it consisted of widgets! I didn't know how to copy and paste at the time, so my options were limited!

Since the family learned about the blog, I can explore my niche of telling stories about myself and the family! Thanks to Facebook, my audience has expanded! As a result, I regularly identify the people that are in my stories. Eventually, a Cast of Characters will be a part of this blog! I also hope to add more photos since I know how to put photos from my brother Bob's digital camera on my blog, on Facebook, and in my e-mails (Not in that order!). Eventually, the scanner function of our printer will be beneficial as some great pictures come from outside sources.

It has been a great four years here. The future holds great potential. I will do my best to satisfy my readers!

Happy Belated Birthday, Laura

2011-08-04T00:34:00.000-04:00

I would like to wish a belated birthday to my niece-in-law, Laura. Her birthday was Tuesday. I have been spending so much time on Facebook that I forgot to write this Post! If you are privileged enough to be Facebook Friends with Laura, I did remember to wish her a "Happy Birthday" there! I hope that she had a great birthday! I hope that her husband Dan Jr. and daughters Amy Marie and Emily made her birthday a great one!

Celebrity Sighting

2011-07-23T21:56:00.001-04:00

I was in Westlake at Crocker Park and the Promenade to exchange an umbrella at Eddie Bauer. The clerk who waited on me yesterday recognized me and told the clerk to make the exchange. He had trouble doing the exchange because a coupon was involved. Another clerk was able to help him, so my upgrade to a better umbrella was successfully processed. It was just two dollars more, but I plan to enjoy the umbrella.

Since I was between buses, I had lunch at Bruegger's Bagels. I had the Cafe Mandarin Medley Salad and Cherry Coke. The salad was not bad for $4.99. A bagel will be on the plate if I return someday.

After lunch and before catching buses to go downtown, I stop at Borders Books. I did not have time to look around! Before going into the store, I recognize a very well-known media personality. He was wearing a Fox 8 polo shirt. I then heard him speak! It turned out to be Dick Goddard, legendary weatherman for most of the last fifty years in Cleveland Television (He briefly worked in Philadelphia in 1965-1966.). He was with one person! Unfortunately, I didn't speak to him, let alone take a picture (I didn't have Bob's camera, anyways.). The most famous person who I have met and who has been in my house is Fox News Channnel's David Lee Miller. He was on WKYC (NBC) in Cleveland in 1982 when he interviewed my father after he bought a car that turned out to be stolen. I was eleven at the time. I have seen other celebrities since then, but he is the biggest one I have ever met!

Once I reached downtown, I went to the Main Branch of the Cleveland Public Library. Mass at St. Leo Church in Cleveland and relaxation at home rounded out the day. Ironically, rain appeared today, but it was nothing like the thunderstorm that Bob and I encountered on our trip yesterday. It was only rain by the time that we made it to Crocker Park. The rain had ended by the time I exited the bus today!

This was a day to remember!

This Blog Has Photos Now. (The Widgets Were Lonely.)

2011-07-22T14:16:00.000-04:00

For those people who do not know me, this is what I look like! This picture comes from my living room! There will be more to come!

The Zoo, Moe's, and Other Activities

2011-07-18T21:40:00.000-04:00

Today, my brother Bob and I made it to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo! As the elephant made its first appearance, it started to rain for a few minutes! Not too many people had umbrellas at the time. We also saw some kangaroos and lions! Since it was so hot outside, we waited for the tram to take us to the Aquatic, Cat, and Primate Building! Before waiting for the tram, we watched the Elephant Crossing! Despite the hype surrounding the Elephant Area, I didn't realize that the elephant crossing was an event. I did learn that Willie the elephant weighed 13,000 pounds and spanned 11 feet! Otherwise, the Elephant Crossing was overrated! We waited for the tram! Most of the people just ahead of us left the line for the tram. They almost made the first tram! After becoming the first group to make the tram, they left the line for good! We finally made the tram! Our driver was very informative. When he wasn't talking, he played music from WNCX (http://www.wncx.com).

We reached the Aquatic, Cat, and Primate Building. We first looked at the gorillas and other animals that were outside! We then went inside the building. Not surprisingly, the building was very crowded as people enjoyed the air conditioning. Despite the heat, the zoo in general was very crowded! Not surprisingly, we were among the few without any young children. We enjoyed what we saw at the zoo.

After the zoo, we took the short walk to catch a bus to Parmatown Mall. (79B http://www.riderta.com) We started off with lunch at Moe's Southwest Grill which is across the street from the Mall. They have a Monday special of any burrito, chips and salsa, (Normally included with the burrito) and soda for $5.99! I had a pork burrito. Bob had a chicken burrito. Both of them came with sour cream AND guacamole. Originally, I was paying for lunch! However, Bob paid for our lunches! When I found out about the bill, I eventually discovered a pork surcharge! There was NOTHING about it on the promotional signs in the restaurant. I do recall a surcharge on the $3 Facebook Promotional Day (It was that price for everybody!) I had a chicken burrito that day! I am sticking to chicken on Monday at Moe's! (http://www.moes.com) The burrito was quite good, but I was full. I also had Pibb Extra and Barq's Root Beer to drink. Pibb Extra is a little stronger than Dr. Pepper! I would rather have the unavailable Cherry Coke.

Bob was still hungry, so I bought him a $1 Hot Fudge Sundae from McDonald's! After the Sundae, we went to Target, Kohl's, and PetsMart. In PetsMart, the power went out briefly. A thunderstorm followed. Thankfully, we found shelter at the nearby Giant Eagle. The power also went on and off there. It eventually settled!

Thankfully, it was a brief thunderstorm! By the time that we crossed the street to the mall, it had stopped raining! We visited JCPenney. We then went to Wal-Mart! As we were going to Wal-Mart, we noticed that Macy's was without power! Macy's is in the old part of the mall. Hopefully, Macy's was able to restore its power!

Once we were finished in the mall, we took two buses to our local Wendy's by Midtown Plaza (We could have walked or taken the bus to the Wendy's by Target and Kohl's, but we decided to go closer to home. I had a grilled chicken wrap, a sour cream and chive baked potato, and a Coke. In the past, it was an unadvertised combo. Two employees said that there was no combo. I told them that it was a combo for years (including that particular branch)! They were going to get the manager, but I downgraded my soda size to the Value size. Since refills are free, it was not a problem. I drink too much soda anyways. The potato and soda were 99 cents each. The food was delicious, but not too much on a hot day! Bob had the Pick Two Special (Half an Apple Pecan Chicken Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette Dressing and Chili) and a value Coke.

After we were finished with dinner, we headed for the bus stop to go home. A thunderstorm and a potential tornado were possibilities. Thankfully, our bus was on time. It didn't even rain by us. Our power did not go out because I would have been changing clocks if it did. We spent the rest of the evening relaxing. It was an eventful day to say the least.

Happy Birthday, Lois

2011-07-15T23:01:00.000-04:00

Today is Lois's Birthday. I hope that she and my brother Tim were able to enjoy this special event! I hope that she enjoys all her presents!

Jimmy John's

2011-07-14T23:26:00.001-04:00

From 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., Jimmy John's in the Cleveland Area was offering Subs 1-6 for a dollar, one per person! on Thursday! I was at the Lakewood Branch on Warren Road! I was there after 2:00! I waited in line twenty minutes for my Sub. I ate my Ham Sub there! I had no trouble attaining a seat! I then used the "secret" exit which involves a long hallway that leads to Detroit Avenue. I had another twenty minute wait for my brother Bob's sub to go! He will be eating his sub tomorrow!

I then spent some time at the Lakewood Public Library on Detroit Avenue! It was warmer than necessary there! I then headed to Aldi on Pearl Road to purchase various beverages and oatmeal. I then struggled with my packages! I only brought one plastic bag! The lane that I ended up using was out of plastic bags, so I bought a paper bag! I ended up on the State Road bus, so I had a longer walk than normal. After shuffling my packages between bags, I made it home. I spent most of the evening relaxing! It was a day to remember!!

Happy Belated Birthday, Dave

2011-07-02T00:30:00.002-04:00

I would like to wish my nephew-in-law Dave a belated Happy 30th Birthday. It was on July 1st. He and my niece Amy bought a house in Medway, MA (near Boston)! I hope that their move is going smoothly!

For all my readers, I hope that you have a fun and safe Fourth of July!!

Happy Belated Birthday, Marnie

2011-06-12T18:52:00.003-04:00

On June 8th, my niece Marnie celebrated her birthday. Normally, I am not this late announcing birthdays and anniversaries. Facebook has become a passion lately. Marnie did receive a birthday wish on Facebook. Bob and I gave her a Gift Card for Aeropostale. I hope that she enjoys it.

Bob and I spent Marnie's birthday in the Akron Area. We ate at O'Charley's by Chapel Hill Mall again. I had tilapia with rice, peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Rolls were also included. The food was worth the price. Our Shopping Highlights were Sunscreen at a Target near O'Charley's and a rain jacket at Macy's for Bob. Since I have a Macy's card, and Bob does not, I saved him money. It's easier for me to return the jacket if necessary.

After buying the jacket, we went for the bus stop to head towards home. We feared that we missed the bus, but it was late. We then went to a couple of Wendy's. One was by the Winking Lizard in Independence. Bob wanted a Chocolate Frosty to kill time before the bus towards home. I feared that it would spoil my supper! We then went to a Wendy's on Broadview Road, near where the Mr. Chicken used to be. The replacement Mr. Chicken is going to be on Pleasant Valley Road in a former KFC. It will still be an one bus trip for me. The other restaurants in the area closed recently are still vacant. The Anthony Pizza and Deli near the former KFC on Broadview Road in Cleveland has shown no signs of opening anytime soon. However, Happy's Pizza opened up at the corner of Denison Avenue and Pearl Road (Happy's still calls it West 25th Street. The building faces Denison Avenue.). I haven't picked up food from there yet. It's in a former car stereo store. I hope that the Restaurant is successful, especially its Dining Room.

(Editor's Note: Pearl Road becomes West 25th Street after you pass the On Ramp for I-71. When I was growing up, it was after the Brooklyn Bridge near the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
Old timers still probably say West 25th and Denison.)

In closing, Bob and I were very close to the Pilgrimage site, but we didn't go to Chippewa Creek. We wanted to get home without going out of our way. We spent the rest of the night relaxing.

There will be another report soon!

Kathleen's Birthday Party

2011-06-05T23:18:00.002-04:00

Tonight we celebrated my sister Kathleen's birthday. At the Regina Convent in South Euclid, we had boneless pork chops, baked potatoes, green beans, rolls, red jello, and a Chocolate Ice Cream cake. My great nieces Amy Marie and Emily had Macaroni and Cheese and Peanut Butter (?) sandwiches. As it turns out, I ended up eating the rest of the macaroni and cheese. It was either Stouffer's or Banquet (It was probably the latter.) It was half the container. The food was quite tasty. The participants were Dan Sr., Patty, and Joe (Brother-in-law, sister, and brother, for my new readers). Kathleen received some nice gifts. However, the stars of the show were Amy Marie and Emily. They enjoyed bonking people with "hard" balloons. Joe and I were spared, though. They also had pink balloons, but one of them popped towards the end of the evening. Emily was in the room, but she didn't appear to be traumatized. It was a fun evening!

Happy Birthday, Kendal

2011-06-04T22:00:00.002-04:00

Today is my great-niece Kendal's fifth birthday! I hope that she appreciates all the presents that her family and friends sent her! Of course, my brother Bob and I sent her a gift card. It doesn't hurt to be practical. (LOL)

My next report will be tomorrow or Monday!

Happy Birthday, Kathleen

2011-06-03T22:52:00.002-04:00

Today is my sister Kathleen's birthday. We will be celebrating on Sunday! I hope that she enjoyed her birthday.

I celebrated her birthday by going to the Rocky River Public Library. The bus from Downtown Cleveland was over fifteen minutes late. After the library, I then walked to catch the bus to go to Dunkin Donuts on Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. I just missed a bus that was late, but I made my intended bus. I had a free donut with pink frosting and multicolored sprinkles (No name was provided on the rack, but they had plenty of them on the shelf.). I had a Medium Mountain Dew Coolatta. I enjoyed both of my items. I then walked down Webb Avenue to catch the Clifton Avenue Bus to downtown. I made my connection. I then took a couple of buses to Save-A-Lot on Brookpark Road in Cleveland to pick up some bananas and Raisin Bran. (It could have been a one bus trip, but I used my options "wisely.") I then went to the Burger King down the street to pick up my brother Bob's Single Stackers for his lunches (Dinners) at work. I then took the bus home. I spent the rest of the evening relaxing. It was a fun day!

Pilgrimage 2011

2011-06-03T22:17:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was the Fifth Anniversary of my brother Dan's death from lung cancer. On the anniversary (June 8) of the scattering of most of his ashes in Chippewa Creek in Brecksville, I usually stand by the wall on Chippewa Road near the creek to show my appreciation. This year, I made my pilgrimage on the anniversary of his death because Bob is off on June 8th. He went with me on last year's pilgrimage. It might also rain that day. I was caught in the rain on one of my pilgrimages. Thankfully, the weather was nice. It wasn't very hot or humid. Although the coordination between buses at Brecksville and Rockside Roads is usually too close for comfort, the #77 bus was ten minutes late, so I was able to make the pilgrimage as easily as possible.

After the pilgrimage, I visited the nearby Heinen's supermarket. I didn't buy anything, but I noticed that Graeter's Ice Cream is $17.99 for 1.75 qts. (56 oz.). They have two available flavors that I didn't properly note. I then took the bus to downtown Cleveland because Discount Drug Mart in Independence is not that exciting (unless I am buying something). I then took a bus to the South Brooklyn Library to pick up some materials. It was my second library trip of the day because I was at Parma-Snow Library before the Pilgrimage. After the library, I cashed a $4 Powerball winner. The money was then used for Classic Lotto and Powerball tickets. I then came home. My sister Kathleen was visiting because she was picking up presents for two of my four great-nieces (Amy Marie and Emily) on her way to a meeting in Parma. I spent the rest of the evening relaxing.

Happy "Belated" Birthday, Amy Marie

2011-06-01T00:49:00.002-04:00

I would like to wish a belated Happy Birthday to my great-niece Amy (Her Aunt is also named Amy, so we call her Amy Marie.) (For her Uncle Patrick, it wouldn't be belated.) Her grandparents Dan and Patty are in town because Dan JR. and Laura are going to Las Vegas. I hope that the family enjoyed the celebration and the gifts.

There will be a number of forthcoming reports.

Happy Anniversary, Dave and Amy

2011-05-16T00:30:00.002-04:00

Today is my niece Amy and her husband Dave's Second Wedding Anniversary! I hope that they enjoy all their gifts!! Look out for future updates!

Happy Belated Anniversary, Dan and Patty

2011-05-06T22:16:00.001-04:00

I would like to wish my sister Patty and her husband Dan a belated Happy Anniversary. Their anniversary was on May 5. I hope that they enjoy their anniversary gifts.

Since it was Cinco de Mayo, I celebrated with a three dollar burrito and tortilla chips for dinner at Moe's Southwest Grill near Parmatown Mall in Parma. It was quite tasty. However, my trip home was delayed when the bus ran over a mirror (or something else) that came off of a car in a one car accident. I did not see the accident, but no one was hurt in the car or on the bus. Fortunately, the next bus showed up about half an hour later. I then spent the rest of the evening relaxing, after I removed sticks from the lawn.

There was another complication involving a bus. A truck broke down in the middle of the road in the Warren and Munn Roads area in Cleveland. The bus was blocked from its normal route. We went down Warren Road and eventually turned down Edgecliff Road to reach Rocky River Drive. I was only on this bus to kill time between buses. Thankfully, I made the bus to my destination of Great Northern Mall in North Olmsted. Once again, there were no injuries.

Hopefully, there won't be any other bus complications any time soon.

Easter 2011

2011-04-30T21:55:00.002-04:00

The McDonnell Easter was a very nice event! It started with 10:00 A.M. Mass at St. Leo Church in Cleveland. My sister Kathleen and my brother Bob were in attendance. Kathleen went back to Regina High School in South Euclid for Easter Lunch. Bob and I had leftover Spaghetti from Good Friday for lunch. I then made Scalloped potatoes to bring to dinner at my sister Maggie and her husband Mike's house. Bob provided a Peanut Butter Silk Pie from Perkins.

At Maggie and Mike's house, we ate ham, baked beans with pork sausage, green beans with almonds, cranberry sauce, Crescent rolls, corn, sweet potato casserole, cheesecake, and the two items mentioned in the previous paragraph, among other things. The food was tasty!

The participants besides the hosts, Bob, Kathleen, and myself were my brother Joe and my niece Mandy. It was a very adult event. It was a lot more pleasant than Christmas, as far as our house goes.

Until next time, enjoy the Month of May.

Happy Belated Birthday, Emily

2011-04-27T23:40:00.002-04:00

On Monday, my great-niece Emily turned 2. I hope that she enjoyed her celebration. Toys 'R' Us will not be the same.

My Easter Report will be forthcoming.

Happy Anniversary, Mike and Maggie

2011-04-22T17:48:00.002-04:00

Today is my sister Maggie and brother-in-law Mike's Wedding Anniversary. I will be seeing them later in the day. Her present is in the mail. Hopefully, it was on time! I will let you know in my Easter Report.

Have a nice Easter and Passover!!

Three Interesting Meals

2011-04-16T22:20:00.003-04:00

On April 1st, I went to St. Leo's on Broadview Road in Cleveland for the Lenten Fish Fry. I had a piece of tortilla crusted tilapia, a baked potato, cole slaw, a roll, and a can of Coke for $8.50. It was tasty. I brought home a potato pierogi meal for my brother Bob.

On April 7th, Bob and I visited First Watch at Crocker Park in Westlake for Lunch. Bob had joined their e-club that day. I had a ham and cheese omelet with First Watch Potatoes, an English Muffin, and Coke. Bob had steak fajitas. It was tasty. I plan to join their e-club, so we could have another BOGO meal.

On April 15, I went to the Brooklyn Heights United Church of Christ on West Schaaf Road for their Fish Fry. I had two pieces of fried fish, French fries, cole slaw, a roll, chocolate cake, (I could also have had white cake.) and a can of Sprite for $7 (Dessert would have been $1.50 extra at St. Leo's.). I ordered from the counter. They delivered the food to my table. It started with the cole slaw and the roll. The Sprite showed up around this time as well. The fish and fries came next. The chocolate cake was the climax. After the cafeteria style experience at St. Leo's, it was a relaxing change of pace. St. Leo's had more variety on their menu, but if you like Long John Silver's, Arthur Treacher's, or Captain D.'s (I have never been to Captain D.'s), you would have enjoyed the fish, fries, and cole slaw (Arthur Treacher's serves English Style Chips.). Since they only served fish, Bob didn't receive any food. He was at work anyways, since he works from 3:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M. these days. His dinner was cheese ravioli that he had made for us for lunch. I heated Birdseye California Blend Vegetables with Cheddar Cheese Sauce to supplement the ravioli. The ravioli was tasty with Delgrosso Mushroom Sauce.

I hope that I didn't make you too hungry!!

Happy Birthday, Hayden

2011-04-10T23:11:00.002-04:00

Today is my great-niece Hayden's 3rd Birthday. I hope that she enjoyed her presents. Bob and I were practical in our gift choice of a Toys 'R' Us Gift Card. I am sure that it will not be sitting around too long.

Happy 60th Birthday, Patty

2011-04-08T23:54:00.000-04:00

April 8 was my sister Patty's Sixtieth Birthday! I hope that she enjoyed her birthday! She is a great sister!

My next report will be in a few days.

Chili's and IHOP

2011-03-30T23:45:00.003-04:00

My brother Bob and I made our Chili's debut at lunchtime today. My niece Mandy and her husband Paul gave me Applebee's and Chili's (and Friends) Gift Cards for my 40th birthday in October. Chili's started a two entrees and a shared appetizer for $20 deal, similar to Applebee's, recently. In anticipation for my visit, I joined Chili's e-club. The deal was free chips and queso (With an entree purchase, as indicated in the fine print on my coupon). Since the coupon was expiring soon, we went to the Chili's across from Great Northern Mall in North Olmsted. I had the Quesadilla Explosion Salad. Bob had Chicken Fajitas. We shared a half order of Texas Cheese Fries as our appetizer. Salsa and Ranch Dressing were the accompaniments. Even with the meal deal, we were still able to enjoy our free chips and queso (Normally $4.99). We had Cokes as our drinks. Though the food appeared to be too much for lunch, we only left some of the queso, and most of the salsa. If we had spoons (They serve soup!), we might have finished both leftovers. The food was quite appetizing!

We then burned off the food by going through the mall and visiting Petsmart in the adjacent strip mall. We then headed for Steelyard Commons to do some window shopping before dinner. Home Depot, Petco, Marshall's, and Target were our stops before dinner.

After the window shopping was finished, we went over to IHOP. I had Grilled Tilapia Hollandaise with Loaded Potato Soup, Broccoli, Mashed Potatoes, Garlic Bread, and Pepsi. Bob had Pot Roast, Corn, and Seasoned Redskin Potatoes. (Yes, we reversed the potatoes.) His soup, bread, and beverage were the same as mine. The food was mostly O.K., but we were still full from lunch. We then came home and relaxed for the rest of the evening. It was a day of interesting food.

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-22T00:18:00.002-04:00

Bob and I had a St. Patrick's Day to remember. We went to Beachwood Place, La Place, and Legacy Village in Beachwood and Lyndhurst. We left early enough to just see the usual crowd on the #35 bus. We did see the early parade visitors as they exited the eastbound Red Line train. The train was so late that we missed our bus to Beachwood Place. However, we caught the #9 Mayfield Road bus. I would have gone to MicroCenter in Mayfield Hts., but Bob wanted to go to Beachwood Place and Legacy Village. As a result, we got off the bus at Mayfield and Richmond Roads. We killed time at CVS. Eventually, we made it to Beachwood Place. We enjoyed a Footlong Meatball Pepperoni Sub from Subway. We did our window shopping at the three shopping centers (Two Enclosed, one open air). We then took the #32 Cedar Road bus towards University Circle. We then took the train downtown. It was standing room only, but a man left his seat to our benefit. We made it just in time to encounter the crowd leaving the parade. A lot of them were running, but injury was avoided. Our bus to our dinner was so crowded that it couldn't pick up waiting passengers. Fortunately, we had seats.

After exiting the bus, I called my sister Maggie to pick us up for the short drive to her house. We then ate Corned Beef, cabbage, cauliflower, Ore-Ida Fried Potatoes (?), and a lot of other delicacies. The food was delicious. Besides Maggie's husband Mike, Joe was the only other participant. It was a nice time. Eventually, Mike took us home. We then relaxed for the rest of the evening.

Next year, we are avoiding the parade scene!!

Goodbye, Katie

2011-03-22T00:14:00.002-04:00

This morning, my oldest cat Katie died after a brief illness. Unlike Squeaky, she was eating regularly, so I wasn't prepared for her death. We enjoyed Katie for many years. She will be missed.

Katie (1997?-2011) R.I.P.

Happy Birthday, Patrick

2011-03-14T02:08:00.001-04:00

Today is my nephew Patrick's Birthday. He and his sister Amy are planning to spend some time together in Boston as he is working at the Burton U.S. Open of Snowboarding in Vermont. (This information is courtesy of Patrick's Facebook Page.) I hope that they have a nice time together. I also would like him to enjoy the rest of his day as well.

By the way, the Teen Librarian who left the comment on a recent post is Patrick's Aunt Marianne, Dan SR.'s sister. Once again, Facebook is to be credited for this, as I send my posts to Facebook. Since I assumed that my friend at the Parma-Snow Library finally actually read my blog, I did not investigate the supplied link until she mentioned that she didn't write the comment. By the way, I am hoping that all libraries receive enough funds to provide their community service.

Until next time, enjoy your local library, or any library for that matter.

Just Another Day

2011-03-05T00:02:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, Bob and I went to the Chipotle just outside of SouthPark Mall in Strongsville. We had BOGO burritos and Coke. We then visited the mall. After we finished the mall, we went to Applebee's by Southland in Middleburg Heights. We had steak, boneless Honey Barbecue chicken wings, baked potatoes, broccoli, celery with Ranch dressing, and Pepsis. We enjoyed our food. We then came home and relaxed.

Dining Out

2011-03-02T00:51:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I had a late breakfast (11:00) at the IHOP at Steelyard Commons in Cleveland. I enjoyed my short stack of three pancakes with a bowl of loaded potato and bacon soup and Pepsi. The pancakes were free with a consideration of a donation to the Children's Miracle Network. As a result, the place was a little more crowded than my usual dinner visits, but I was in and out in about half an hour. Since the bus was coming soon, I skipped Wal-Mart Supercenter. After the first bus, I took another bus and then I walked down Portman Ave. to Broadview Road towards home.

After about an hour at home, I left for Moe's Southwest Grill by Parmatown. They were celebrating the branch's new Facebook Page by offering $2 Burritos. I had a top of the line Chicken Burrito with Sour Cream AND Guacamole. It wasn't too crowded at 2:00 P.M., but a few people showed up after me. The food was delicious. After lunch, I went to the nearby Target. I picked up some Frozen Banquet dinners for my brother Bob. Normally, the lines are not too long at Target. Of course, the lines were a little longer than I wanted. The good news was that the food was cheaper than the display price. Some cashiers arrived to handle the customers, but it happened as I was checking out.

I then ran for the bus. Fortunately, a couple of other people used the bus stop, so it didn't take off. This wasn't my first run for a bus today. I ran for my Broadview Road bus to start this trip. It appeared to be way early. There was one other passenger. What I didn't know at the time, was that the bus had broken down. Fortunately, the expected bus was on schedule, so I made my connection. I made my connection on the way home. There is a little more time between buses on this trip. The bus was also late. I then came home.

After a short time home, Bob and I went to Baker's Square in Parma Heights. The first bus was on time. The second bus was late, which may have made it a little more crowded than normal. After leaving the bus, we had to avoid snow mounds that blocked the sidewalk. Once we reached the restaurant, I enjoyed the Pie Shop Special. I had half a ham and Swiss sandwich on Oat Bran bread, a Garden Salad, Mint Brownie Blast Pie, and Coke. We then headed for the bus stop. The bus was a little late, but since there was no action on Pearl Road, we made our bus home. The rest of the evening was spent relaxing.

Tomorrow, we are going to have BOGO food from Chipotle. It could be interesting. Expect a report.

I am trying something new. This blog may be found in my Facebook Notes section. I am looking at Facebook for Dummies. If I follow the instructions, my Facebook page will never be the same. Details will follow in my next report.

Happy Birthday, Dan JR.

2011-03-01T01:22:00.000-05:00

Once again, I am late with Dan JR's birthday message, though I left him a brief one on Facebook. He is on a business trip right now. I hope that he enjoyed his birthday. If I learn anything, I will share it here.

Happy Birthday, Tim

2011-02-17T01:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my brother Tim's Birthday. I hope that he had a nice celebration. Though this message is late, I sent a simple message on his Facebook Page on time. I thought about writing this post last night, but I was busy corresponding with my Facebook Friends. Facebook is addictive.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Bob's Birthday (The Party)

2011-02-06T23:41:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, we celebrated my brother Bob's Fiftieth Birthday at my sister Maggie and her husband Mike's house in Parma, OH. Enjoying the festivities was my sister, Kathleen, my brothers, Tim and Joe, my niece Mandy and her husband Paul. We ate steak fajitas, rice pilaf, stuffing, corn, breadsticks, and beef rotini (My audience would understand this concept better.). Before dinner, we ate raw carrots, candy, potato chips, and pretzels. Dessert was German Chocolate Cake, Cheesecake, Rice Krispie Treats, and Edy's Vanilla and Cookies and Cream Ice Creams. The food was all delicious.

After dessert, presents were then opened. They were mostly restaurant gift cards. We will enjoy some restaurants that are not in our regular rotation. The presents were all appreciated. However, the event that will be most remembered at this party is that Kathleen's car was frozen shut. I discovered this when I was putting leftovers in her car. I was able to open her door, so I threw the food over by where I would be sitting on the ride home. Thankfully, we were able to get into her car with a little more effort than normal. After riding home, relaxation was the theme of the night. It was a fun party.

We are celebrating in our house tonight! The Pittsburgh Steelers lost to the Green Bay Packers 31-25 in Super Bowl XLV. If the Steelers had won, I would have been very unhappy.

Bob's 50th Birthday

2011-02-03T23:57:00.000-05:00

Today is Bob's 50th Birthday. We celebrated with breakfast food at lunch from Denny's near Parmatown Mall. Bob had a free Grand Slam. I had Moons Over My Hammy. We then looked around Parmatown. Chocolate Chip Cookies were purchased from Wal-Mart. We then headed towards Independence. Normally, coordination between the buses can be too close for comfort. However, the bus to Independence from Broadview Road was almost fifteen minutes late. We then went to Red Robin. Bob had a free Banzai Burger and Fries. I had a Gourmet Cheeseburger (I substituted a Boca Burger.) and Fries. As a surprise, Bob had a free special Birthday Hot Fudge Sundae. I was full, so I did not have dessert. The remainder of my Fries refill and a few of Bob's came home with us. We then crossed the road to catch the bus. You will be happy to know that we made our bus home. (It was the next to last one down Rockside Road to Broadview Road.) Some of my Facebook-HN '90 Friends will know it as the Winking Lizard Bus because the Red Robin is across the street. We really enjoyed our food. We ended the evening by watching television and napping. Bob also talked to Maggie and Patty on the phone. In addition, he opened up cards from Patty and Dan and Aunt Rita. The rest of his gifts will be opened at a party at Maggie and Mike's house in Parma on Saturday evening. There will be a report sometime this weekend.

Until then, enjoy life.

A Party to Remember

2011-01-30T01:47:00.002-05:00

Earlier this evening, we celebrated my Uncle Ed and Aunt Joan's 50th Wedding Anniversary. The festivities started with a Mass at St. Bridget Kildare Church on Hauserman Road in Parma (not far from Holy Name High School where I graduated in 1990). The happy couple renewed their wedding vows. Most of us also had our throats blessed since St. Blase Day is coming soon.

We then went to the Middleburg Heights Community Center for a nice dinner. The appetizers were a nice variety of fruit (which I skipped because my appetizer plate was full), cheeses, crackers, and vegetables. The entrees were ham, breaded chicken, rigatoni, rice, salad, rolls, navy beans and some other items that I have forgotten. Dessert was Red Velvet Cake, Cassata Cake, and Carrot Cake, I only had the first one. The Cassata cake didn't excite me. The carrot cake was apparently gone by the time, I reached the dessert area. The food was very appetizing. We spent the evening socializing with relatives that I haven't seen since 2007 (Maggie, Mike Schabel, and Kathleen are the exceptions.). If you didn't have a good time, you must have been on another planet. I am so glad that I attended this event. The next 50th Anniversary party that I hope to attend will be for my sister Patty and her husband Dan in 2023. It should be another fun event. I will be 52 years old by then.

Until then, have fun with life.

Amy Marie and Emily

2011-01-29T00:29:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, I saw my great-nieces, Amy and Emily at their house in Warren. We enjoyed pizza (from Salvatore's Pizza in Warren) and salad. Also joining us for this event were Maggie and her husband Mike, Kathleen, Patty, Dan SR., Dan's brother Mike and his wife Joanne, and of course, Dan JR. and Laura. We also ate special chocolate cookies with whipped cream and a cherry on top (Known in our family as Ice Box Cookies). The food was all tasty. We watched two short videos featuring Amy and Emily, created by Dan SR. during the event. Maggie and Mike brought Christmas (Traditional) Presents for Amy and Emily. We enjoyed ourselves, but Amy and Emily's screaming gave me a headache, but I recovered quickly.

My next report will be about my Uncle Ed and Aunt Joan's 50th Anniversary Party later today.

Museums

2011-01-18T02:35:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I went to the Great Lakes Science Museum and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They were both free for MLK day. I was by myself as Bob was resting.

I started off my trip by having lunch at Quizno's in The Galleria. (http://www.galleriaaterieview.com) The Galleria is a former upscale shopping mall that now has some art galleries, and some offices that don't excite me. I had a small Classic Club sub on Wheat Bread and Pepsi. I paid the "retail" price because I failed to print coupons from my e-mail that I had saved. I also had samples from Taco Amigo and Sakkio Japan. It was tasty.

After lunch, I cashed in a Powerball ticket at the Erieview Newsstand in the Galleria because I had the Powerball and one other number ($4) in last Saturday's drawing. The store received all the money back because I bought Ohio Classic Lotto and MegaMillions Tickets with the proceeds. More wins will be nice.

After I finished my Galleria exploration, I had a reasonable walk to the Great Lakes Science Center. Once I made it into the revolving door, (Some kids goofing off briefly delayed my entry.)I was able to look at the exhibits. It was so crowded that I didn't get to appreciate the exhibits. I did attend some demonstrations. One involved soap bubbles and density. It was a simple demonstration, so I didn't have to linger. Another demonstration involved Forces and inertia. Despite the noise from the nearby dining area, I was able to hear the instructor Allan clearly most of the time. He was enjoying himself. This demonstration was a little more involved, so I stayed for the whole event. It was less than half an hour. I was actually at the museum less than an hour. The NASA Glenn Visitor Center has some displays down there now, but it was too crowded to really enjoy them and the rest of the interactive displays. In addition, this was my fourth time at the museum. It is mostly geared to children. However, my first visit, (also a solo trip) a number of years ago, turned into a four hour trip, including lunch (A Hot Dog, Potato Chips, and a Soda (Either Coke or Pepsi) was what I enjoyed because the McDonald's that was there at the time was the expected price gouger. Pizza Hut may have had a limited service outlet then. They definitely still provide food to this day.). People who know me may be shocked at the time commitment. If you have kids, you may appreciate it more.

After the Science Museum, I walked to the Rock Hall next door. It was 1:16 P.M. when I reached the line to get into the museum. Despite being right by Lake Erie, it was not too unpleasantly cold for the fifteen minutes that I waited to enjoy the museum. In addition to the crowds and my approximately twentieth visit to the Rock Hall, they are renovating the museum. Maybe next year, things will be better. I looked at some items, but I didn't really appreciate the displays like I should have. The interactive kiosks were mostly in use, so I didn't enjoy them this year. (The Les Paul kiosks were not popular. I went through that exhibit many times due to the construction making the escalators an exercise in patience.) The Bruce Springsteen exhibit is still there, but it is leaving next month. I had also seen it before, and the crowds in a tight space on the upper floors (5 and 6) made it difficult to enjoy. They also had some loud live music that commemorated the Black Experience for MLK Day. As a result of all the circumstances that I mentioned, I was there a little over an hour.

I then headed towards home. Originally, I was heading up East Ninth Street to Superior Avenue to catch the #35 bus home. However, I saw the trolley bus that I have taken to get close to the Rock Hall in past years on Lakeside Avenue. I took it to the RTA office on West Ninth Street, where I transferred to another trolley that took me to Tower City. Since I had time to kill, I went to get some new schedules that had recently come out. Unfortunately, they only had two of the six schedules that would have been most useful to me. They also needed a major restocking of a lot of the other schedules. Fortunately, I can look up the information at the RTA web site (http://www.riderta.com) for coordination going on a trip. Coming back requires a schedule that is likely not available on the bus. Fortunately, I do get my schedules eventually.

I then caught the bus towards home, but I stopped off at Save a Lot to buy some orange juice. I also bought some biscuits that can be made in the oven. Don't worry, although I have never made biscuits in the oven, I do not foresee any problems due to my inexperience. The potatoes from Christmas came out fine. The cookie sheet where the Baked Beans from Christmas rested was left in the oven by someone else. I didn't think to investigate that day, but I learned my lesson. I then took the bus home. My cheap bag broke on the way home. It had a hole from a recent shopping trip suffered on its first use. I do have other bags from Save-a-Lot though. Once I came home, I then checked my e-mail.

There will be more details about MLK Day in the future, but I have been writing this post for over ninety minutes now. This will also be the first post where the actual Post time reflects when I published it through a manual time change. It's about "time."

This Blog Is Finally Coming to Facebook.

2011-01-16T02:23:00.002-05:00

This blog is slowly coming to Facebook. It started with my exploration of my Multiply Site. I returned to Blogspot and found the Facebook Link button on each post. I will eventually add all posts to my Facebook Page. This will increase my blog's audience immensely. I hope that my Facebook readers enjoy this blog as much as my current readers.

Happy Birthday, Mike Schmidt

2011-01-16T01:47:00.002-05:00

Today is my nephew-in-law, Mike Schmidt's birthday. I hope that he, Marnie, Kendal, and Hayden enjoy the celebration. To my new readers, the Kendal-Hayden Blog is a link on the right side of this blog. Unlike this blog, it has a lot of photos. My blog may or may not have photos eventually, but it will probably be in the distant future. Until then, enjoy the widgets that may offer some enhancement. (They appear on the Blogspot Edition Only. Multiply users should enjoy the lack of "clutter".)

Shopping Was Not a Problem, Even on Christmas Eve.

2011-01-07T22:25:00.002-05:00

Once again, I visited Ziggy's Produce on Orthodox Christmas Eve to buy my Classic Lotto (Ohio) and Powerball tickets. Unlike last year, there was no long line. I came in a little after 4:00 P.M. A customer came in around the same time, but she was looking at items beyond lottery, so I was able to go in line and quickly pick up my lottery tickets. I reminisced about how busy it was last Orthodox Christmas Eve. We have a lot of Orthodox churches in my area, but Orthodox Christmas receives scant attention in the mainstream media. It did receive some post-Christmas publicity in The Plain Dealer shortly after the holiday last year. We'll have to wait for the publicity this year. I wonder if there will be any good post-Christmas sales this year. If there are, they will not be heavily publicized.

I hope that my Orthodox readers enjoyed their Christmas holiday this year.

A Belated Birthday Message

2011-01-03T02:13:00.002-05:00

I have been so busy on Facebook lately that I haven't written my birthday report for my sister Maggie until now. Her birthday was a week ago today. I hope that she enjoyed it. On her birthday, I sent an e-mail message, and I called her. She will be receiving her present the next time that we see her.

Happy New Year!!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T20:00:00.002-05:00

We celebrated Christmas at my sister Maggie and her husband Mike's house in Parma. We had chicken (Fajita and Plain0, Scalloped potatoes (Made by Yours Truly), corn, baked beans with sausage, bread sticks, and a lot of appetizers and desserts. The food was rather tasty.

In addition to Maggie, Mike (Schabel), and myself, the participants included Kathleen, Tim, Joe, Mandy, Lois, Marnie, Mike Schmidt, Kendal, and Hayden. It had been exactly a year since I had seen the last four people listed. Bob had a plumbing problem at our house and needed his rest since he is on the night shift at the post office in Downtown Cleveland. Paul was overworked celebrating with his family, so he was not present. The other relatives from the Gift Exchange group celebrated elsewhere. We enjoyed spending time with each other.

We ate in three stages. They were appetizer, Entree, and Dessert. After eating and initial cleanup, some people opened presents. Lois, Mike Schmidt, Mandy, and Marnie had presents from the Gift Exchange. Kendal and Hayden appeared to have a "truckload" of presents. (They're four-and-a-half and two-and-a-half, respectively) Most people ignored practicality in favor of readily appreciated presents. Of course, Bob and I are the exceptions to this rule because we gave them Toys 'R' Us Gift Cards. The kids enjoyed their presents for the most part.

In general, Christmas turned out to be a nice affair. It didn't start out so great. In addition to the plumbing problem, my first bag of instant scalloped potatoes went flying due to a hard to open bag. When I preheated the oven, I failed to discover a cookie sheet that was placed under the baked beans that Kathleen cooked yesterday. As a result, two of our smoke alarms went off. Thankfully, we didn't have a fire. We will laugh about this day someday.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-24T16:27:00.002-05:00

I would like to wish those celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa, or any similar holiday, a nice holiday. I was at Ziggy's Produce on Broadview Road in Cleveland this morning. It wasn't too crowded. Of course, Orthodox Christmas Eve (January 6)will be another story. Tune in to find out.

This blog may be joining the Facebook family soon. Watch out for any future information. Thankfully, Facebook is "private" enough to avoid any major problems, I hope.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Happy Anniversary, Mandy and Paul (and a Christmas Report)

2010-12-18T23:37:00.004-05:00

Today is my niece Mandy and Paul's Second Wedding anniversary. For my future readers, I have no stories about their wedding day since they eloped. I found out when I saw them on Christmas Day. I hope that they enjoyed their anniversary.

My Christmas shopping was finished on Wednesday. Since we have the Gift Exchange, I only had to shop for one adult and my four great-nieces (Ages ranging from four-and-a-half to one-and-a-half on Christmas Day.). I hope to see them next weekend. Bob and I received our Christmas Card from Amy Marie and Emily today. Hopefully, our card from Kendal and Hayden will show up soon.

Until next time, enjoy the Christmas season.

Black Friday

2010-11-26T14:27:00.002-05:00

My shopping trip was successful. It was not too crowded at Giant Eagle. I bought our bus passes, but the lottery machine was down. I then went to a nearby Walgreen's. I bought two bottles (Canada Dry, A&W Root Beer) of soda there since I received a 99 cent off coupon for my next purchase. I should have bought the bottles separately since it was one coupon per offer, but sometimes you have to live it up. On the way home, I stopped off at Ziggy's Produce (Featured in the Orthodox Christmas Entry from January 2010) for my lottery tickets. The store was a little more crowded than usual, but the trip was successful.

I came home. Shortly afterwards, Kathleen came home with soda from Deals or Dollar Tree. I reimbursed her. She then went home. Originally, if Kathleen came home from Black Friday shopping (She left around 9:15 a.m.) before I left for Parma-Snow Library and my shopping, we would have gone together to do the soda shopping. Thankfully, we successfully accomplished all my shopping.

Until next time, enjoy your holiday shopping.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T21:07:00.002-05:00

The McDonnell family Thanksgiving was a small affair. For dinner, it was Bob, Kathleen, Mike and Maggie Schabel, Joe, and myself. Paul and Mandy arrived just before dessert because they were at Paul's sister's house. We had the usual Thanksgiving fixings. Dessert consisted of Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Satin Pie, Cheesecake, Apple Pie, (Bob and I provided it from Perkins. (In the Denny's and Friendly's class of chain restaurants)) and Margarita-flavored jello. All of the food was delicious.

After the dessert course was over, the names for the Gift Exchange were selected. There are some complications again, so, once again, they won't be posted on this blog. Otherwise, it was an enjoyable and peaceful evening.

I will not be shopping for Black Friday items. However, I will be buying December bus passes for Bob and myself. Ohio Classic Lotto and Powerball tickets will also be purchased as well. I'll see how crowded Giant Eagle (It was open on Thanksgiving.) across from Midtown Plaza will be.

Until next time, I hope that all of my readers enjoyed Thanksgiving. I also hope that they also survive Black Friday and the rest of the various shopping seasons. Keep up with your research.

Happy Birthday, Paul

2010-11-14T22:25:00.002-05:00

My nephew-in-law, Paul (Mandy's husband) celebrates a birthday today. I hope that he had a nice celebration. I also hope that he enjoyed all his gifts.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Southwest Alabama Television

2010-11-02T00:31:00.002-04:00

After writing my last post, I was going to look at Cleveland Classic Media through the link on this blog. As I was looking through the blogs that I follow, I noticed Southwest Alabama Television on the list. Unfortunately, the blog was removed recently because the information was moved to the Mobile, AL of the Examiner Web Site. I miss the old site because a "bookmark" is now necessary to easily reach the information. I enjoy this site because it talks about "local" TV personalities, which is one of my interests. I hope that you enjoy the information, which is now at http://www.examiner.com/tv-in-mobile.

In addition, I will be adding a Boston television website to the blogs that I follow. I have interest in this market because my sister, brother-in-law, niece, and nephew-in-law live in the market. You can also learn about Boston area weather from this blog. I love this blog, but it would work better as a stand-alone blog. Since I visit the site almost daily, it is bookmarked on my computer for easier access. For the rest of my readers, it can be found at http://hinghamweather.com/bostontvnews. It will be in the "Blogs I Follow" section soon.

Until next time, your research will include more election results than you need to know.

Happy Birthday, Mike

2010-11-02T00:17:00.003-04:00

I would like to wish a belated birthday wish to my brother-in-law, Mike. His birthday was yesterday. I hope that he enjoys all his gifts. I don't know what other people gave him, but Bob and I gave him a Wendy's Gift Card. He goes to Wendy's almost every day, so I know that the gift will be appreciated. He called me tonight to tell me so. Once again, Happy Birthday, Mike!!

Before I sign off, don't forget to vote.

Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T22:24:00.004-04:00

I had an interesting Halloween. It started out with a trip to Aldi on Pearl Road in Cleveland. I barely made the bus after dropping off some newspapers at the recycling bin near where Bob and I vote (My Census training was also held here.). I bought some 2% milk, Variety Pack Oatmeal, Unsalted-Dry Roasted Peanuts, and a 2 liter bottle of GT Cola (only $.59 (Diet GT Cola was only $.39)). There was no line and no clerk. After I completed my purchases, I crossed the street to catch a bus to get me closer to home. I then walked home from State Road and Portman Avenue. I then spent the rest of the afternoon on my computer and looking at football.

Not long after dinner, Trick or treating started. After four minutes, I had given away twenty pieces of candy. I thought that it would be a big night. As it turns out, about 94 people received candy in the two hours of trick or treating (6:00 to 8:00). I blame it on the wind and the temperature in the forties. At least, it didn't rain.

After spending more time on the computer, I left for Heggs House of Horror (http://www.heggshouseofhorror.com) on Merl Avenue, a short walk from my house. Since it was well past the end of handing out candy, there was a nice crowd. I spent some time looking at the display. I then walked home. In less than half an hour, the trip was over.

Halloween 2010 will be noted for the lack of "exciting costumes". It was still a fun day. I hope that I have as much fun next year.

My 40th Birthday Celebration

2010-10-24T20:47:00.002-04:00

As most of you know, my birthday was on October 21 (I started writing the post on October 21, but I finished it after midnight.) Tonight we celebrated by having dinner at Dimitri's in Parma (Yes, it's near the new Walgreen's that I have documented many times on this blog.). The attendees were Kathleen, Tim, Mike (Schabel), Maggie, Lois, Joe, Bob, Mandy, and Paul. The food was delicious for the most part. Although dessert was part of the Sunday special, (Entree, soup, salad, rolls, dessert, and beverage are bundled for one price on selected meals.) we also enjoyed a birthday cake made by Maggie. We also enjoyed each other's company. It was a nice celebration that will be remembered for a long time. (This blog will be a great help!)

P.S.: I had my usual Boston Scrod and Rice Pilaf tonight.

My 40th Birthday

2010-10-21T23:27:00.002-04:00

As most of my readers know, I turned 40 years old today. I started the day watching my favorite show Live with Regis and Kelly on WEWS in Cleveland. I then checked my e-mail. I attempted to print out an e-mail coupon from Denny's. I struggled, but Bob was successful with the printout. We walked to Broadview and Tampa Avenues to catch the first of two buses to go to Denny's near Parmatown Mall. The first bus was so late that we didn't make our second bus at Broadview and Pearl Roads, so we just went back down Broadview Road to go to Wendy's. We both had half an Apple Pecan Chicken Salad and value priced sodas. Bob had Chili, while I had a Baked Potato with chives, butter, and sour cream (It's my birthday. You only turn 40 once.) We enjoyed our food. After lunch, Bob went home. I headed for the Parma-South Library.

Despite the fact that our bus was late to Broadview and Pearl Roads was late, the second bus was late enough for me to catch it. At the library, I read the latest Billboard Magazine, the Official Catholic Directory for 2010, the Spring 2010 SRDS Newspaper Advertising Guide, and an article on Kelly Ripa in the November 2010 issue of Good Housekeeping. I also checked out six CDs (Five 70s compilations and one 80s compilation). I then went to Giant Eagle by Parmatown to buy Classic Lotto and Powerball tickets for Saturday's drawings. After reading the Glee spoof in Mad Magazine, I made the short walk to Denny's.

At 4:00, my seating area at Denny's had a lot of people. I ordered my "healthier" Grand Slam. Unfortunately, I forgot to hold the butter and syrup, so I lived it up. (I only used one of my two syrups on my pancakes.) I also enjoyed a Coke with added vanilla flavoring. (I would have enjoyed it more without the glass two-thirds full of ice. I remedied the situation at refill time. ) Once again, I enjoyed my food.

To kill time before my first bus towards home, I crossed Day Drive to go to JCPenney. I then caught the bus which took me to Aldi on Pearl Road in Cleveland to buy a variety pack of oatmeal and a gallon of 2% Lowfat milk. I then came home and relaxed.

To all the callers, e-mailers and Facebook commenters, thanks for the nice birthday messages. This was a birthday to remember. The celebration continues on Sunday. Details will follow.

Happy Birthday, Mandy

2010-10-14T22:30:00.002-04:00

Today is my niece Mandy's birthday. She and her husband, Paul, were planning to spend the weekend in Niagara Falls. I hope that they have a nice safe trip.

Speaking of trips, it was reported on the Kendal-Hayden Blog that Mike, Marnie, and the kids were in Cleveland. Driving through Cleveland was probably involved, based on the activities that they enjoyed, but Bob and I, who actually live in Cleveland, were not involved. Hopefully, we will see them in the coming months. I am pleased to report that location detail on the blog is showing some improvement.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Walgreen's, Dave, Melina, and the Census Bureau

2010-10-09T20:22:00.004-04:00

On Thursday, I finally made it to the new Walgreen's on Rockside Road in Parma. (The Arby's next door has a Snow Road address.) Cashews (8.5 oz.), mixed nuts (9 oz.), and peanuts (16 oz.) were on sale for $1.99 through today. I bought a can each of cashews and mixed nuts (Both unsalted). I didn't buy any peanuts because I can buy the same size from Aldi at that price regularly. (Deals offers the same size for $2.) I didn't tour the store because I wanted to catch the bus home, so I could catch up on videotapes with Bob. In addition to the nuts, I picked up five Buck Doubles from the nearby Burger King for Bob's meals at work. I also visited the Parma-Snow library to pick up some CDs and read some materials. We watched the tape, ate leftover pizza from Don-Gi's Pizza, and relaxed before Bob left for work.

This morning, we got haircuts from the Pearlview Barber Shop on Broadview Road (Across from the former Arby's). It was our first haircut since our previous barber, Dave Bernard, died a week ago. Before going to work at our current barber shop, his barber shop was across the street. Bob and I had our haircuts from Dave for about twenty years there before the bar next door wanted to expand. He then went to work with our present barber, Roy Valenti, briefly. His license and smock are still there, although he retired a few years ago. There was at least one time when Roy cut my hair, and Dave cut Bob's hair. (I don't remember if the reverse scenario occurred.) Dave will be missed.

There is a little bit of trivia concerning Dave Bernard. His son married Melina Kanakeredes's sister. Coincidentally, Melina was on Live with Regis and Kelly on Thursday. Unfortunately, Dave's death wasn't mentioned on the show. It would have been nice to meet her if she made it back to town for the wake and funeral. By the way, Bob and I missed both events because they didn't fit into Bob's schedule. We really didn't know his family, although his widow and a few other relatives made a few appearances at the barber shop over the years while we were there. We'll have our memories.

Speaking of memories, I finally have decided to update the story of the Census Bureau's failure to put my pay into my bank account. After my first call and visit to the Census Bureau, only about half of my pay made it into my bank account, so I called again. A few days later, after checking my bank account, I thought that the Census Bureau failed again, but I reviewed my pay stubs and realized that my pay stubs were added together (Two amounts were in each pay stub in my later weeks in one of those baffling government decisions.) On July 29th, my pay stubs and my bank account were finally in sync (after the aforementioned summation, of course). After a small hassle, I was finally relieved with a happy ending.

Until next time, keep up with the research.

Happy Anniversary, Dan and Laura

2010-10-04T00:06:00.002-04:00

Today is my nephew Dan and his wife Laura's seventh wedding anniversary. I hope that they still get as much enjoyment as I did the day that they got married. It was a fun wedding.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Old Restaurants

2010-09-25T21:38:00.002-04:00

On September 15, Bob and I went to the Perkins in Middleburg Heights because it was easier to reach from Southpark Mall than our usual Perkins. We had never been to this branch although it predated the one in Brooklyn (By the way, the Brooklyn Perkins was rebuilt after a fire.). On the way there, we noticed that the Denny's that used to be across the street was out of business. I don't know how long that it has been out of business since it had been about a year that we had been in the area. We used to pass it when we took the bus from Great Northern Mall to Parmatown Mall, but the bus's route was changed from Cuyahoga Community College to Southwest General Hospital in September 2009. (Years ago, the bus went from Great Northern to West 33rd and Brookpark, not far from our home. The route is a little too complicated to discuss at this time.) I also don't know if the competition has changed significantly. Bob Evans (Rebuilt around 2002-2003) and Friendly's have been in the area for awhile. Max and Erma's and Olive Garden are also in the area. There's some fast food places in the area. Several motels in the area may have restaurants as well. Obviously, it is a heavy traffic area. In addition to the hospital, the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds and Baldwin Wallace College are all down Bagley Road. Hopkins Airport is not too far away. With all the traffic, I don't see the Denny's staying vacant too long (Even if it is torn down and replaced with new construction).

Before I forget about Perkins, I enjoyed my salmon with apricot-teriyaki glaze. I don't remember Bob's entree at this time. One funny thing did happen on this trip. When the cashier was handing me back the change, I dropped a quarter in the space on the counter where the cash register wire or phone wire resides. The cashier couldn't find the quarter, so I received another quarter. (For the record, Bob paid for dinner that evening.) Otherwise, the trip went smoothly. Despite our bus from Bagley Road being late, we made our two connections to our house. We relaxed for most of the evening.

This story brings me back to the Midtown area. If you go West on Snow Road (on Google Earth) from Broadview Road, you will see a Denny's. Needless to say, it went out of business a couple years ago. It was demolished, and the site now holds a Third Federal Savings branch (Our local branch on Brookpark Road and the State Road (near Snow Road) branch were consolidated.). It's a nice branch, but we wish the Denny's was still there. By the way, I haven't been to the new Walgreen's nearby yet. Tune in for more details.

Until next time, keep up with the research.

Happy Birthday, Dan SR.

2010-09-19T09:44:00.002-04:00

I would like to wish my brother-in-law, Dan, a happy birthday. I hope that he enjoys the present that Bob and I sent him. I also want him to enjoy his birthday with his family and friends.

Corrections and Other News

2010-09-16T00:40:00.002-04:00

While discussing potential cats for adoption, Bob notified me that I had transposed the price of adoption for cats from the Cleveland APL on August 28. Older cats could be adopted for free. Kittens cost $10 to adopt. (The item has been corrected on the original post.) I hope that you weren't confused.

Also, while doing some research on Google Earth on Lincoln Street in Worcester, MA, I spotted the Bickford's that replaced Abdow's Big Boy. I was inspired to check the Bickford's Web Site. I discovered that the Bickford's on Lincoln Street was defunct. I don't know what occupies the space now. I recommend checking out http://www.bickfordsrestaurants.com for your own enrichment.

Speaking of restaurants, a restaurant that has been in my area, for as long as I can remember, closed last month. The Pizza Hut on Broadview Road in Parma is the restaurant in question. It is one of many Pizza Huts to close in my area recently. We rarely go to Pizza Hut, but the stores are missed.

Speaking of stores, Walgreen's was scheduled to open on Snow Road (near Broadview) in Parma yesterday. Contrary to what I expected, the store was built past the Arby's, which recently had a major interior and exterior renovation. I visited it about a week ago (9-7-2010). It is quite nice. Many of the other Arby's in the Cleveland area are in various stages of construction as well. By the way, the former Arby's closest to my house is still vacant. It is still missed. For the record, there is a new parking lot where the Mr. Chicken mentioned in an earlier post and a vacant lot that formerly housed a SOHIO gas station (Now BP) once stood. It goes without saying that the changes will really surprise people who haven't been in the area for awhile.

Until next time, use Google Earth to research the areas that I mentioned in this post. I will highlight some changes in the Midtown area in Parma in a future post. It will be a very interesting story.

Happy Anniversary, Mike and Marnie

2010-09-10T22:16:00.003-04:00

Today is Mike and Marnie's sixth anniversary. I hope that they enjoyed it in their new house. I am sure that Kendal and Hayden were on their best behavior that day. I'll let you know if an anniversary-related post appears on the Kendal-Hayden blog. Bob and I gave them an Applebee's Gift Card for a present. I am sure that they will find a nearby Applebee's (Howell, perhaps). It seems that they are everywhere. Tune in to find out if there are any details.

Bob's Vacation (Part Four)

2010-09-10T21:05:00.002-04:00

On September 1, Bob and I went out to Beachwood Place, La Place, and Legacy Village. We had lunch at Subway. We visited Nordstrom, Eddie Bauer, Clark's Shoes, and Dillard's (Saks was just a walkthrough.) in the mall. Borders was our only stop at La Place. (It's not that exciting of a mall in my opinion. We visited Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Nordstrom Rack, and Dick's Sporting Goods.

After buying nothing out East, we headed towards Steelyard Commons. We visited Staples and Petco. We then headed to IHOP for dinner. I had tilapia. Bob had sirloin tips. We both enjoyed our meals. We then headed for home. The first bus was so late, but we made our connecting bus towards home because it was quite late. We then went home and relaxed.

On September 2, we went to Great Northern Mall. We ate at Donato's Pizza across the street. I had a coupon for individual pizzas for $1.99 each (up to three). We split chicken, pepperoni, and meatball pizzas. They were tasty. It had been awhile since we ate there. Subway's $5 footlongs are hard to pass up. We did some more window shopping. We then went to Eat 'N' Park in Parma for dinner. I had grilled chicken. Bob had Chicken Alfredo (I think!). Once again we enjoyed our food. We then headed for home. We almost made an earlier bus that we were on earlier in the other direction. Fortunately, the next bus was coming soon. (Under normal circumstances, there are thirteen minutes between these #35 buses. (in the 6:00 p.m. hour)) We then went home and watched the Browns beat the Bears on a game ending field goal. I hope that we have more exciting finishes like that in the regular season. Also, during the game, (around 9:00 p.m.) Kathleen stopped over to pick up tapes of Rescue Me that were taped for her over the last few weeks. The week so far has had its moments. Things will get interesting in the next story.

On Friday, Maggie stopped over to take Bob and me to Holy Cross Cemetery in Brookpark because my parents would have been married 61 years that day. Since it was raining, we didn't stay long. We then went to Brookgate, so Maggie could visit Marc's. We bought cans of soda there, so we benefited, too. We then went back towards the cemetery because we were going to Big Boy. I did a phone survey to win either free soda or a free slice of pie. We all had cheeseburgers and fries. We enjoyed them. Bob and I had soda, but we all had pie because one of us would have it for free. I had French Silk pie. Maggie and Bob had Coconut Cream pie As it turns out, Bob and I finished Maggie's pie. We enjoyed the pie as well. We then went to Dollar Tree on Brookpark Road to buy bottles of soda. We then went to Giant Eagle by Midtown (and Eat 'N' Park) to pick up cookies and milk. We saved two dollars on a gallon of milk because we bought five selected items. This offer wasn't in our ad, and the eligible items were not clear in Maggie's ad. After Giant Eagle, we came home, unpacked, and relaxed.

After relaxing, we headed to TGI Friday's in Brooklyn because I had a BoGo Entree coupon that was only for that branch. Bob's plan was to take the #35 bus to Lorain and West 25th so we could catch the #79B to TGI Friday's on Tiedman Road. Unfortunately, our bus was fifteen minutes late, so Bob's plan was out. Fortunately, I had another route in mind. We took the bus down to Pearl Road. We made our second bus only because it was fifteen minutes late. We took that bus to Stumph Road. Since we had time to kill, and some repair work was occurring near the convenient bus stop on York Road, (Stumph Road changes to York Road when it crosses Pearl Road.) we walked down the road. The stop was a little further than we would have desired, but we still made our bus. We then went to TGI Friday's. It was one bus stop sooner than I would have liked, but it was actually easier to reach the restaurant from that stop. The creek wasn't in our way. We somehow had very little traffic coming or going, which surprised me. (There are two hotels and two restaurants that share the driveway.) We enjoyed our food. I had chicken with angel hair pasta. I'll get back to you with Bob's meal that night. After dinner, we used Bob's route to go home. The first bus was late, but it was back on schedule by the time we left the bus on West 25th. We easily made our connecting bus. We then went home and relaxed. It was a vacation to remember. (I would have preferred that the buses weren't so late in some cases, but the stories wouldn't have been as interesting.

Bob's Vacation (Part Three)

2010-09-06T20:28:00.003-04:00

One week ago today, Bob and I went to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. It was just as enjoyable as last time. Unlike last time, we took pictures that may or not show up on this blog eventually. Despite the heat, there were many people with strollers. I only saw one obvious day care this time, compared to last year's after the kids went back to school trip. We did a lot of walking because the trams were not running. They claim that they were trying to save on diesel fuel, but I think that the construction of the elephant area may have been a factor as well.

After the zoo, we took a short walk to the corner of Fulton Parkway and Fulton Road, so we could catch a bus to Parmatown Mall. Before visiting the mall, we ate lunch at Mr. Hero across from the mall. (Yes, there's one in the mall, but I know that free soda refills are available across the street. However, Great Northern Mall's Mr. Hero offers free refills, but they do not accept coupons, although I observed an acceptance not too long ago.). We each enjoyed a sandwich, waffer fries, and soda for $5.00 each. (No tax was charged although we dined inside the restaurant. If we used takeout, there would have been tax on the soda, at least in our area.) The food was tasty. We observed more dine-in people than we normally do at Mr. Hero. My theory on the traditional routine is that many of the customers grew up when Mr. Hero was take out only. The Mr. Hero that I first remember on Memphis Avenue in Cleveland is still like that. (Coincidentally, it is a short drive from the zoo if you use the Fulton Parkway exit of the zoo. (The Fulton Road/Fulton Parkway confusion is best illustrated with a map.))

After lunch, we visited Wal Mart, Dick's Sporting Goods, and a cameo appearance at JcPenney. I grabbed one of the two bus schedules that I didn't have. (The other one was retrieved on a bus the following day. (I think!)) We then went to catch the #20 bus that would take us closer to home. Although, we were running late, we should have made the bus. However, it was either early, or there was a complication. We never saw this bus. About half an hour later, the next bus showed up. It kept stalling out. No air conditioning was a consequence. We got off the bus at Saratoga Avenue because there was no coordination with the #35 bus thanks to the complication. We then went home and rested.

After a while, we headed out to go to Denny's on Brookpark Road. Our first bus (#35) was fifteen minutes late, but we took advantage of a #51 bus that was late enough so we didn't have to wait long for a bus that would have taken us closer to Denny's. After a short walk from Brookpark and Pearl Roads, we arrived at the Denny's. We enjoyed our food and then went home and relaxed.

On Tuesday, we went to the Chick-Fil-A at Westgate in Rocky River (Although most of Westgate is in Fairview Park, the Chick-Fil-A website offers the exception.) We had a BOGO coupon for a large combo. Food for the two of us was less than $8.00. It was tasty.

After lunch, we visited Lowe's, Kohl's, Target, and Petco at Westgate. We then walked to the Westwood Town Center to go to Marc's. We then went to the AMC Theaters next door to see The Other Guys . I enjoyed the movie, but Bob thought it would be funnier.

After the movie, we took a bus to Lorain Road in Fairview Park, so we could catch a bus to Baker's Square on Lorain Road in North Olmsted. The bus left late, so we barely missed our connection. We weren't expecting to make it, but rush hour and construction on Lorain Avenue in Cleveland (It becomes Lorain Road in Fairview Park and remains that way the rest of the way Westbound (at least through North Ridgeville in Lorain County).) made the connection a realistic possibility. We caught the next bus. We enjoyed our meal, but I challenged and won a dispute over a surcharge for a croissant, which was my choice of bread for my sandwich for the Pie Shop Special. I later learned from my sister Maggie, that the surcharge existed in "fine print" on the menu, but since neither the manager, nor I saw it, the surcharge was removed from the bill. They even took the tax off the $5 off coupon. A lot of restaurants do this, but usually not Bakers Square. I was happy. Unfortunately, we missed a bus, but Bob was still eating, so we wouldn't have made it anyways. We walked down to a nearby Discount Drug Mart to kill time. We then went home and relaxed.

My next report will discuss our adventures from September 1 until I tire of writing.

Bob's Vacation (Part Two)

2010-09-03T21:45:00.002-04:00

In our last adventure, Bob and I had reached the corner of Broadview and Pearl Roads after we went to SouthPark Mall on Sunday. Although we were walking home, Bob wanted a shake from Arby's which was nearby. However, there was a little problem. The Arby's was out of business.
I had noticed yellow tape (Not Crime Scene tape) along the front of the store on Friday as I was on my way to pick up some CDs from Parma-Snow library. We may have noticed it on Saturday (or not). By Sunday, we were saddened. We do still have an Arby's at Broadview and Snow Roads that we enjoy more, but the closed branch was closer to home. I hope that something nice happens to the former Arby's and the former KFC down the street. There is good news in the neighborhood, though. Almost across the street, after being vacant for many years, Anthony's Pizza and Deli will be coming to a building that housed five different donut shops over about a twenty-five year period. Let us hope that they give Don-Gi's Pizza down the street some competition, as much as we enjoy Don-Gi's. I'll let you know my review as soon as we experience Anthony's.

Just as we planned, we walked home. We relaxed for a little bit. I then went to Qdoba in Parma to have my dinner and to pick up Bob's dinner. The bus was about twelve minutes later, but I should have been able to eat my dinner and pick up Bob's before the return bus arrived. Unfortunately, I had a complication with frequent customer points. I may or not have had my meal credited with my points from a swipe of my Qdoba card by the cashier. If things went according to plan, Bob's meal would have been free as I would earned enough points. I did scan my receipt to send to Qdoba, (Success is questionable since I don't know if they received it.) but our first entree next time should be free, especially if I go on Triple Points Sunday or Double Points Tuesday. In the time that I spent discussing the points situation, I missed the bus. It did not help that the bus was now running about a minute early. It must not have been too crowded. After determining that I missed the bus, I crossed the street to go to Giant Eagle to cash a $150 MegaMillions winner (I had three numbers and the Megaball. Four numbers and no Megaball would have won the same amount.). After browsing through the store, I went to catch the bus. I almost missed this bus because I had misjudged the bus stop, but I caught my mistake in time. We then relaxed for the rest of the evening.

In my next report, I will discuss our Monday trip to the zoo and Parmatown Mall.

Bob's Vacation (Part One)

2010-09-03T14:47:00.003-04:00

Bob was on vacation this week. I am going to give you the highlights of the week. You should notice a recurring theme.

On Saturday, Bob and I got our haircuts at Pearlview Barber Shop on Broadview Road in Cleveland. We had to do it that day because our barber was going to Italy on vacation for two weeks. Surprisingly, it was not crowded for a Saturday morning before a vacation. As I was in the chair, the barber received a vacation-related call that lasted about five minutes. As a result, we missed our bus towards home. Thankfully, it wasn't a long walk.

(For the record, there was a possibility of visiting the Animal Protective League to adopt a cat (Kittens were $10. Older cats were free last weekend.). However, Bob decided that rest was more beneficial. It also doesn't help that the facility is not very bus friendly. A long walk with a cat on a hot day would be a little extreme.)

We rested for a short time. I ate lunch. I then went to the Main Library downtown. I was running late. Any other day, I would have missed the bus. I was on my way to State and Saratoga to catch the #20 bus when the #35 bus arrived fifteen minutes late. After the library, I went to CVS and then to St. Leo Church for 4:00 Mass. Father Lowe had the Mass, but another priest spoke about a group in Southern Mexico who needed our money for everyday needs. I then came home. We had hot dogs and baked beans. We then watched the Browns game and the NFL game on CBS. It was a quiet night.

On Sunday, we went to SouthPark Mall in Strongsville. We visited Borders Books and Music across the street. We then ate lunch at Steak Escape in the same strip as Borders. Our next stops were Fannie Mae Candy, (There was an one day offer for a ninety cent pint of ice cream with a coupon. Unfortunately, we did not have the coupon.) Best Buy, and Petco. We then crossed the street to go to the mall. We closed our visit with a trip to Kohl's near the mall. We then headed to the bus stop. It was late. After a short layover, we headed back towards the mall because Drake Road has a construction situation. Apparently, there was no good detour to cover Pearl Road between Drake and Royalton Roads. If we or anyone else had business in that stretch, they would have been unhappy with the "unannounced" detour. We then walked home. There is a little side story that I will reveal in my next report.

Update on Wednesday's Post

2010-08-27T23:45:00.002-04:00

I have some information about bus two of my adventure to Big Boy. On Sunday, RTA changed some times on this bus. What I thought was on time was actually three minutes late. This means that if the bus is on time, making the bus that shortens our walk home, should not be a problem.

For the record, I have all our schedules except two. I forgot to grab one, and the Tower City Rapid Station was out of the other. I thought I had a copy of the unavailable schedule on my bus to Midtown, (This bus would also take me towards home.) but it was the previous edition that came out just six weeks earlier. I think a lot of these schedule adjustments are due to the fact that they changed the name of the #20A bus to #20. The letter was not needed anymore because the seasonal #20Z bus to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo was discontinued less than a year ago.(There are some pictures from Kendal and Hayden's visit to the zoo with Maggie and Mandy on June 8 on the Kendal-Hayden blog.) It was a nice bus that helped avoid the hill to and from the zoo if you used the Pearl Road Entrance.

For the record, Bob and I have planned a trip to the zoo on Monday. However, we plan on walking down to Fulton Parkway (The opposite end of the zoo for those not familiar with our zoo) because we plan on going to Parmatown Mall. (For further reference, go to the RTA web site that will be in the Links section of this blog.) I will let you know if these plans succeed.

Until next time, enjoy the research tips that I give you.

Back in a Flash

2010-08-25T21:44:00.002-04:00

Bob, Maggie, and I made it to Microcenter at Eastgate Shopping Center in Mayfield Heights to pick up our free flash drives or SDHC cards. We had trouble finding the flash drives, but we were told that they were at the registers. There were no problems in attaining our items.

We then went to the nearby Marc's. Bob and I picked up four 12 packs of Coke and two packages of Chips Deluxe cookies. After Marc's, we went to the nearby Wal-Mart to attain our free refill of lens cleaner fluid. Otherwise, we window shopped.

Our final stop was lunch at Roly Poly Sandwiches at nearby Golden Gate Shopping Center. Bob and Maggie had small chicken fajita sandwiches. I had a chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich. Bob also had a cup of potato salad. I had a cup of pasta salad. Maggie did not have a side. We had sides because they were less than half price with a soda (Both of us drank Coke.) purchase. We all had a spoonful of tart yogurt. The food was interesting.

Since we were done shopping, we went home and relaxed. At 3:30, Bob and I went to Big Boy on Brookpark Road in Cleveland. It was a three bus trip. We made all of our connections. I even had time to buy lottery tickets and redeem a small ($3) Mega Millions winner before our second bus. At Big boy, Bob had smothered chicken, a baked potato, green beans, and Pepsi. I had the burger bar (Hamburgers, French Fries (which I skipped), hot dogs, soup, and salad) and Pepsi. The food was quite tasty.

It was a lot better than my last experience at Big Boy in Worcester, MA in 1991. I took Patty and Bob there before we caught our train back home to Cleveland. My fish had bones all over it. I remember nothing else about the food. I do remember that the nearby shopping center looked "old". There was also a nice article about Cleveland on the previous Sunday in the Worcester Telegram & Gazette newspaper. I do remember mentioning this article to the female cashier. She appeared to be indifferent about it. Thankfully, Big Boy left Massachusetts. Bickford's Grille is there now. Ruby Tuesday is also nearby now. The shopping center was rebuilt. The area appears to be classier. It can all be seen on Google Earth (490 Lincoln St. Worcester or Bickford's Worcester should do the trick.).

Fast forward to 2010. After dinner, we crossed the road to catch our first bus. The crosswalk is a little tricky. (Big Boy Cleveland should work on Google Earth.) The bus stop was in a "mandatory" right turn lane. Thankfully, the bus was an unwritten exception to the rule. This bus was also late, but we made our second bus easily. The second bus was surprisingly running a few minutes ahead of schedule, so we made our third bus towards home instead of just missing it. We then relaxed after I put our trash on our tree lawn for tomorrow's collection.

The day was quite interesting. Maggie's driving us to Mayfield Heights saved Bob and me from any "funny" misadventures on a two bus-one train (Rapid) trip. Our evening bus trips were a lot better than expected. The exercise would have been nice, but we appear to be a little more relaxed as a result.

Until next time, enjoy Google Earth for future research.

Our Plans Evaporated in a "Flash".

2010-08-18T23:47:00.004-04:00

Bob and I were planning to go to Microcenter in Mayfield Heights on Wednesday to pick up a free flash drive for myself. As it turns out, two other people will be receiving flash drives as well. Unfortunately, we don't have them yet.

We were running late this morning. The #35 bus was running a little bit early. We missed it by about a minute. We walked down to Broadview and Pearl Roads to catch the #20A (soon to be #20) bus. Our bus was on time, but we wouldn't have made our train to University Circle from Tower City. After we visited the ATM for Bob, (I visited the ATM on Tuesday.) we headed for the Rapid station. I looked for schedules that will go into effect on Sunday. I struck out on that goal. Since we would have missed our bus to Mayfield Heights by about a minute if we took the next train eastbound. We changed our plans by going to Great Northern Mall and Plaza. The westbound train showed up at a reasonable time, so we made our bus to the mall.

After departing the bus on Great Northern Boulevard, we went to Penn Station East Coast Subs for lunch. They were offering a small order of French Fries for free. Since the promotion wasn't heavily advertised, the lines were not ridiculously long. In addition to the fries, I had a Chicken Cordon Bleu Sub, Pepsi, and Mug Root Beer, and Bob had a Cheesesteak Sub and Pepsi. We enjoyed our food immensely.

After lunch, we walked to the mall. Our only purchases at the Mall and Plaza were lottery tickets for Wednesday's and Friday's drawings. We still had fun, though.

After the mall, we headed for Steelyard Commons. Before eating, we did some more window shopping at the plaza. We then went to IHOP. I had grilled tilapia Hollandaise, mashed potatoes, (With butter that is not normally provided, but without the expected gravy) broccoli, garlic toast, and Mountain Dew. Bob had balsamic-glazed chicken with red skin potatoes, (I should have had them, but I made a substitution.) broccoli, garlic toast, and Lipton Raspberry Iced Tea. Once again, we enjoyed our food.

After IHOP, we went home. I put our trash on the lawn. Bob mopped the kitchen floor. We then relaxed for the rest of the night.

Our day did not go according to plan, but we can try again next week. Roly Poly at nearby Golden Gate Shopping Center is the planned destination for lunch, but plans do change. Tune in to find out for full details.

Famous Gyro George

2010-08-17T22:02:00.002-04:00

I finally made it to Famous Gyro George today. I took the #35 bus up to Famous Gyro George on Broadview Road. I ordered our gyros to go. Since the next bus would be coming from Snow/Rockside Road, which means the bus wouldn't be going past Famous Gyro George, I walked down to Snow Road (It becomes Rockside a little later on eastbound.) to catch the bus home. I only made the bus with a few minutes to spare. This would not have been a problem if the bus to Famous Gyro George wouldn't have been six minutes late. Thankfully, I didn't have the misadventures that I mentioned two weeks ago.

I came home. Bob and I ate our gyros. It was o.k. It was worth it at BOGO pricing. There is a place on Ridge Road (between Pearl and Snow Roads) in Parma named Fergie's Place that loads the meat on their gyros so much that it requires two sittings to eat it all. It would be fun to eat there for dinner one night, since my only exposure is when Bob used to bring gyros home when he and his friends went there after work. Tune in to find out if we make it there.

For dinner tonight, we ate at Steak 'N' Shake near Parmatown Mall. We had double steakburgers, baked beans, and Reese's Peanut Butter Cup shakes. In addition, Bob had vegetable beef soup, and I had cottage cheese with a pineapple ring. It was all tasty.

Before dinner, we looked at Target, Kohl's, and PetsMart. After dinner, we went to Giant Eagle. After Giant Eagle, we took the #20A bus to State and Ruby and walked home from there. We could have taken the bus to Pearl and Broadview, but we determined that walking home would get us home quicker. We then rested for the rest of the night.

Tomorrow, I am getting a free flash drive from Microcenter in Mayfield Heights, OH. Free French Fries from Penn Station will also happen. Details are to follow soon.

It Wasn't Very Smooth.

2010-08-15T23:50:00.002-04:00

This afternoon, I picked up lunch at McDonald's at Pearl and Denison in Cleveland. There was a coupon for a free smoothie or frappe in Parade Magazine that was expiring today. I also had a coupon for a BOGO Angus that had appeared in either The Plain Dealer or in the ads that usually come on Tuesdays. In addition to the burgers and a smoothie, I bought a small bag of French fries for Bob and a side salad with Lite Italian dressing and garlic and butter croutons for myself. I thought the only problem that I would have was that I had originally neglected to buy Bob's fries, but I caught that error when the bill was $5.00 instead of $6.00. When the order came, there were two bags of food and the smoothie. To make my life easier, I put the smoothie in with the salad. I should have asked for a bag for the smoothie. I learned this lesson the hard way.

I caught the #20A bus because the #35 bus was not due until about twenty-five minutes after the #20A. After the short bus ride, I got off at State and Germaine (one street from Honey Hut) . As I was crossing the street, my smoothie and salad bag collapsed. The cover came off the smoothie. About half, if not more, of the smoothie ended up in the street. Since the cover was "damaged", I had to be extra careful for the fifteen minute walk home. Fortunately, the rest of my food survived the trip. (I tripped on an "uneven" sidewalk on Portman Avenue. I also dropped my silverware as I was either crossing Schaaf Road, or walking through the Brooklyn Heights United Church of Christ parking lot (Bob and I vote at this church. My Census training was also located here.). Bob and I enjoyed our food (I heated his. I didn't heat mine because I thought that it was warm enough.). We then divided the Wild Berry smoothie. (Bob put his share in a small juice glass. I enjoyed my allotment in the original cup.) Since I screwed up, I promised a smoothie for Bob (I might even enjoy one, if it's BOGO.). I think I have learned that an extra bag would be a good idea.

This wasn't my last spill of the day. I later spilled Stars and Stripes Cola (Deals, Dollar Tree) while I was pouring it for Bob (in a glass) on the coffee table in our living room. It bubbled over. Unfortunately, I do this all the time. I'll try to restrict my pouring to the kitchen, in addition to being more careful.

Before I spill the beans, I will sign out for the night.

For the Record

2010-08-13T00:01:00.002-04:00

Yesterday's post was really posted just before my computer's clock changed to 12:00 AM. Blogger's clock is ten minutes slow. I investigated trying to fix it, but I haven't found a way to fix it yet. Tune in to find out if I can fix the blog's clock. I doubt it, but you never know.

Happy Birthday, Amy

2010-08-12T23:49:00.002-04:00

I would like to wish my niece Amy a happy birthday. I hope that she and her husband Dave celebrate her birthday in a fun way. I know that our present will be appreciated.

She'll be seeing her brother Patrick this weekend because he is doing some work as a DJ (I assume!) at an event in Hartford being broadcast on NBC. I hope that Patty and Dan Sr. will see him, too. When I check Patrick and Amy's Facebook Pages, I will mention any commentary.

Until next time, have fun.

Happy Birthday, Joe

2010-08-12T09:23:00.002-04:00

I would like to wish a belated Happy birthday to my brother Joe. His birthday was yesterday. I hope that he had a nice birthday. Our sister Maggie wishes him a happy birthday, too. (She was present while I was writing this.)

I will be posting another message later today.

Multiply

2010-08-09T16:05:00.002-04:00

Last year, I had moved this blog to Multiply. Fortunately, the old site did not go away. As an experiment, I attempted a post to this blog via Multiply. A simple link to my Blogger page was promised, but it failed. I then "cut and pasted" what I wrote, so I could share the post about Kathleen's 2009 birthday party with my readers here at Blogger (Blogspot).

On a lark, I decided to revisit Multiply today. All my recent posts are still going there. If you want a "less cluttered" experience, you can visit my Multiply page at http://billmcdonnell.multiply.com. The widgets did not make the trip, but you can still see them on the old page.

For the record, I also have a Facebook page, My Space page, and a Twitter page. Facebook was for research on Kelley Tuthill, a cancer survivor who works at WCVB Television in Boston. Her former co-worker, Gail Huff, is married to U.S. Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts. (By the way, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (No relation, I assume.) of Ohio is married to Plain Dealer\syndicated columnist\Pulitzer Prize Winner Connie Schultz.) My My Space and Twitter accounts are mostly for "research" purposes. Facebook is also used for "research" purposes, but I also learn family insights as well.

Most of my insights will stay here (Blogspot & Multiply). I hope that you continue to enjoy this blog (Widgets or No Widgets). Right now, I am going to "tweet".

My "Real" Playlist

2010-08-07T23:35:00.000-04:00

billmcdonnell

The above link will get into the promised playlist. I hope that you enjoy this playlist more than you "enjoyed'"yesterday's playlist. I am sorry for the error.

The next post will be more family related.

My Real MySpace Playlist

2010-08-07T23:16:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I sent you to an empty playlist. So I don't have to eliminate the link, I will eventually add some material to yesterday's link. Until then, enjoy the forthcoming playlist.

My Other Playlist

2010-08-07T01:54:00.000-04:00

billmcdonnell playlist by William Frederick

This is my playlist from my MySpace account. Most of the material was either not available at Playlist, or it was found while I was enjoying MySpace. It's a shorter list, but I haven't had it as long as I have had my Playlist. I hope that you enjoy this playlist as much as you enjoy the previous one.

For the record, my readers now know my middle name since it's in the link to the new playlist.

My Day

2010-08-03T20:23:00.003-04:00

Today is a day that will be hard to forget. It started with a trip to Acme Supermarket at Pleasant Valley and Broadview Roads in Parma. I bought some hot dogs and cereal (Honey Nut Cheerios and Golden Grahams (Unlike my birthday, Golden Grahams (in the on sale size) were in stock on the last day of a sale.). The hot dogs were supposedly three for the price of one. The ad said meat franks. The label did not use that title, but the ad showed what was on sale. The display area did not have the sale sign in question. After a couple of looks at the ad, I had selected All Beef Franks since the specific item was not clear. Once I had reached the cashier (No self-check!), I interrogated the cashier about the hot dogs. She scanned the item and quoted the "on sale price" of $3.00. It was only the pictured item that was three for the price of one. Since Bob likes All Beef hot dogs, I bought them anyways. Fortunately, I had a coupon for $.75 off of any two Ball Park Franks. I bought all three packs instead of the two packs that I would have bought in a normal sale. The cereals' dollar off of two coupons were no problem. I then headed for home. The bus was eight minutes late coming and going. Late buses would become a theme later in the day.

Ninety minutes later, Bob and I headed for Parmatown. Unfortunately, the bus was so late that Bob went home because we wouldn't have made our second bus. Bob sent me to go get gyros at Famous Gyro George's on Broadview Road in Parma. I expected to catch the bus and get off at Broadview and Snow Roads because the route splits at this point. Once again the bus was late. After calling Bob with a change of plans, the bus arrived. The bus ride was uneventful until the bus stopped at the corner of Broadview and Snow instead of turning on Snow/Rockside Road. I thought that the driver was offering a courtesy stop to a wheelchair bound passenger. It wasn't until I saw my expected bus turning on to Snow/Rockside Road that I realized both buses were very late. If I had stayed on the bus, I would have avoided a short walk to the restaurant.

When the bus was late, I had decided on a nearby Arby's after calling Bob. Unfortunately, it was closed for a few days for construction. (The Walgreen's next door is close to completion. More details will follow in a future post.) I called Bob again to tell him that I was coming home as the Northbound bus was coming soon. I then realized that I was just on that bus, so I called Bob again to tell him that I was going to Taco Bell (co-branded with Long John Silvers).

I ordered my food first because I was shooting for a sure thing, as far as buses go. I ordered two Cantina Tacos that were supposed to be discounted for buying two instead of one. I was not charged the discount rate. The problem was fixed so well that the soda that I ordered was not charged. My guilty conscience wouldn't allow the free soda, but the clerk wouldn't take the money. I ate my tacos, which were very tiny. In addition, the shell's taste was unappealing, even for a soft shell. They had skipped the lime, but I didn't miss it. There was no lettuce or tomato included (I withheld the onions.). I'll stick with the crispy or the regular soft taco in the future.

I went to get a soda refill. Unfortunately, the soda wouldn't stop flowing. I was going to alert an employee, but another customer beat me to it. I then ordered a Chalupa for Bob. I then headed to the bus stop to go home. Since I had time, I mailed some bills that Bob wanted to be mailed. The bus was late, but not too late. I came home and told my story to Bob. He told me that a water main break in Broadview Heights was the cause for the lateness for that branch of the route. (The other branch's lateness was just the routine lateness.) This day cannot get any more interesting.

Bob and I went to Friendly's in Parma Heights for dinner. We had BOGO burgers (Mine was Boca.) After we were finished, we sprinted to make a bus. If the bus is on time, we make our bus towards home. Even with the fun of the day's buses, the bus was late enough to make coordination risky. Bob had already decided to go to Honey Hut, so we did. We got off the bus at Pearl and Oak Park and walked to Honey Hut. I had two scoops of Honey Graham Ice Cream in a cup. Bob had a scoop each of Coconut and Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Creams in one cup. The ice cream was quite tasty. We then walked home as we usually do after Honey Hut. We then relaxed the rest of the night.

Thankfully the end of the day worked better than the start of the day. I know it's hard to believe, but you can't make all this stuff up. It would need a genius to perform the miracle.

Until next time, be creative.

Happy Birthday, Laura

2010-08-02T15:11:00.002-04:00

Today is my niece-in-law Laura's birthday. I hope that she has a nice birthday. I am sure that Dan JR., Amy Marie, and Emily will do their best to insure that it happens.

Bob and I gave her a gift card for Best Buy. I was considering O'Charley's in Niles, OH (The Gift Cards are sold at our local Wal-Mart Supercenter at Steelyard Commons.), but a babysitter (for the girls!) may be a problem. It may not be a "family" restaurant, but the other patrons probably need some "entertainment''. Perhaps, we will keep this in mind for next year.

Until my next post, enjoy life.

Happy Third Anniversary

2010-07-31T20:39:00.003-04:00

It is hard to believe that this blog started three years ago. Since I didn't tell the relatives who are in the Christmas Gift Exchange about this blog until months later, I couldn't tell the stories that I tell now. That's why the widgets and RSS are a part of this blog. The widgets are fun, but I think that the stories are what makes this blog the "success" that it is.

The next post will be a birthday message.

My Playlist

2010-07-25T14:21:00.002-04:00

You may have noticed a purple box in my last entry courtesy of Playlist. I finally accomplished what I wanted to do a while back when a playlist from another source was added to this blog. Unlike the previous playlist, I selected all the songs this time from music uploaded to Playlist by other people. Enjoy this playlist. The previous playlist is probably still all unfamiliar or foreign to me.

There will be a new report as soon as something exciting happens.

Listen to billmcdonnells Playlist

2010-07-25T01:53:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday, Lois

2010-07-15T23:16:00.002-04:00

Today is my brother Tim's companion Lois's Birthday. I hope that she and her family have (or had) a nice celebration. I also hope that she enjoys all the gifts that she has received or will receive.

It has been almost five years since I first met her. On July 18, 2005, we had a get-together at Maggie and Mike's house because Patty and Dan SR. were in town because they attended their nephew's wedding two days earlier. Unfortunately, Dan SR. was not at this get-together. Dan JR. and Laura's new garage at their Chardon house needed some repairs, so he helped Dan JR. in repairing the problems. By the way, I do miss that house, but their home in Warren is a lot nicer.

Unfortunately, I remember very little about that function. I do remember that earlier in the day, I made my only purchase at Nordstrom (so far!) at Beachwood Place Mall. They were New Balance tennis shoes. They were half-priced. If I recall correctly, the shoes went into circulation months or a year later because my shoes at the time were "adequate". It would be nice if I had more memories. Anyone who was there can contribute. Of course, other contributions are welcome. Just keep it "PG" please.

Until next time, enjoy life.

Still More of My Week with Bob

2010-07-10T20:54:00.002-04:00

On July 1st, Kathleen had an appointment in the area, so she took Bob and me shopping at Steelyard Commons. We bought stuff at Deals, Super Wal-Mart, and Target. Let us say that most of the stuff would have been hard to carry all around town.

After Kathleen went home, Bob and I went to Steak and Shake by Parmatown (Steelyard Commons would have been too funny!) for dinner. (By the way, we ate lunch at home.) I had a burger, salad, baked beans, and a Caramel Turtle Fudge shake. If I recall correctly, Bob had a burger, Chicken Gumbo Soup, French Fries, and a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup shake (I'll have that one next time!). We enjoyed our food. We came home and napped.

On July 2nd, Bob and I went to Great Northern Mall. Since we were late leaving the house, we missed the bus to the Rapid Station (West 25th and Lorain). (In my defense, I never saw the bus. If Bob saw it when he did, it may have been a little bit early.) We took the bus from State Road to the aforementioned Rapid Station. After the train, since we left earlier, we made our bus to Great Northern Mall this time. (It figures that we would have made the bus taking the train at the same time that we took on June 30.)

We shared a footlong chicken sub from Subway. We enjoyed Pepsi from Mr. Hero (Free Refills). Since we were hungry, we had pretzel dogs from Auntie Anne's (I had a Mango Chicken sample from Stir Fry 88 around the time that I was getting our sub from Subway,). After eating all that food, we shopped. Our only purchase was lottery tickets (Powerball and Classic Lotto) from CK's Lottery in the mall.

We eventually headed to IHOP at Steelyard Commons. Bob had a chicken omelet, and I had a ham omelet. They came with three buttermilk pancakes. Bob and I enjoyed Pepsis. After dinner, we browsed at Best Buy across the road. We then went home and relaxed.

On Saturday, Bob and I went under the Detroit-Superior Bridge to look at Cleveland transit of the past (Particularly, streetcars). Since we have done this many times over the years, it was a quick visit. We then went to Zoup on Euclid Avenue for lunch. I had Potato Cheddar soup and a Greek salad (I ordered a sandwich, but they gave me a salad instead. We drank Cokes (Maybe, I will tell you what Bob had, if I still have the receipt.). The food was okay, but a little overpriced.

After lunch, Bob went home to rest. I went to the library. I then went to St. Leo's for Mass. I came home. After dinner, we watched TV, and then I walked Bob to the bus stop so he could go to work. The vacation was over!

As luck would have it, Bob had the Fourth of July evening off. He rested most of the day. I made separate trips to Acme Supermarket and Boston Market (Takeout for dinner). We had brisket and some sides. (For the record, they are across the street from one another on Pleasant Valley in Parma. Qdoba and Ruby Tuesday are also nearby.) The food was tasty!

Finally, we have reached the end of the vacation story. You are welcome to research unfamiliar places for enrichment. In addition to the businesses' web sites, Google Earth can also help you to make the picture clearer. Have fun with your research!

More of My Week with Bob

2010-07-05T22:38:00.003-04:00

In my previous story, I mentioned that Bob and I went to Akron on June 29. We had a fun time that day. The fun is only beginning.

On Wednesday, Bob and I went to see Grown-Ups at the AMC Westwood Town Center Theaters in Rocky River. The movie was almost postponed because we were waiting for something better coming out on Thursday. We had planned on going to Great Northern Mall because we had not visited in a long time. Unfortunately, the train was late, so we missed the bus that would have taken us there. We went back to our original plan.

Before the movie, we ate at Wendy's near the theater. Bob wanted the lettuce held on his Single. The clerk was confused, thinking that he wanted the tomato withheld. I corrected the request. The crew didn't get the message. I had to go back to request tomato for his sandwich. I then took the lettuce off his hands. For the record, I had a Grilled Chicken Go Wrap. We both had baked potatoes and Cokes. It was O.K. (At least, my food was.)

After Wendy's, we walked to the theater. There was a handful of people in the cinema . You would think that everyone was seeing the new The Twilight Saga: Eclipse movie. However, I didn't see a long line outside the cinema despite the fact that there was a showing not long after our movie was scheduled to start. That was a relief.

We enjoyed the movie. Like the rest of the crowd, we did not stay through the closing credits. I normally try to do it, but I had to take care of business. We then went to the bus stop (across from Wendy's). Our original plan was to go to Ruby Tuesday in North Olmsted, but we just missed the first of two buses to take us there. I was willing to visit the Westgate Complex to kill time, but Bob decided to take the next bus towards downtown. We ended up at our local Ruby Tuesday in Seven Hills (Across from Qdoba, which is actually in Parma). I had a Chicken Club Quesadilla, and Bob had a steak. They were both appetizing.

After dinner, we walked down to Walgreen's at Broadview and Pleasant Valley Roads to buy milk. I almost walked out of the store without it because I lost sight of it on the counter. I thought that Bob had grabbed it. I made a quick retrieval. We then caught a bus towards home. Bob went home with the milk, but I visited Save-a-Lot to buy orange juice. Before Save-a-Lot, I went to a nearby store to buy tickets for Wednesday's and Friday's lottery drawings. I then took the 20 minute walk home since it would have been foolish to wait for the bus. After the trash went to the lawn for the weekly pickup, we relaxed.

The story will continue in a future post.