Saturday, August 31, 2019

ONE MORE TIME TO TWIN RIVER CASIN0!

It was too nice of a day not to do something so Captain Johnson headed his spiffy black pick-up towards Rhode Island. First, I suggested getting the truck washed and he agreed. $9 at Ernie's in Spencer. It didn't pass mY sniff test! Inferior wash!

The trip to Rhode Island was routine. Sunshine and moderate traffic saw us arrive after ten. The casino was hopping and with Free Slot Play Dick won $20 and I flirted with a ten dollar investment and won $3. Fun on the penny machine.

KFC in Webster saw us for lunch. I paid and got a pint of their cole slaw.. my favorite!

Meanwhile back in the Brookfields I visited my sister Jan Morin. Always good to get caught up with my one and only sister who is 79.5!

THE FUTURE OF ANTIQUES

Visiting Dick Rossman's Post and Boot earlier in the day gives me cause to really wonder the future of antiques and collectibles! Many markets are really down and inventories are lagging. Further, "Johnson"  and I witnessed many Yard Sales to and fro from the casino. I am glad I liquidated a year ago!  I don't have an answer other than the fact the plight of small businesses is real as Amazon conquers the world trade!

YouTube working again!

The speculation on the hurricane reveals Florida may escape it! Maybe, just maybe, we'll get it? LOL.

See you in September.. tomorrow!


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

WEST BROOKFIELD ANTIQUES SALE NEXT TO BANDSTAND

BLOOD SUGAR 82   WEIGHT 169.6

ATENTION!

If you are looking for a bargain, stop by Dick Rossman's Post & Boot Shop Route 9 & Maple Street. WB!

Today he has hundreds of collectibles priced to sell. Antiques galore that will make your home décor special. Many items are a $1 or two. Birdhouses galore.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Friday, August 30, 2019

THE BOOK OF CLOUDS



Yesterday, I bought this book at the Quaboag Book Shop. It is a magnificent book of cloud pictures and explanations of their formations. Just now I logged onto www.clouddman.com and discovered a great website. Check it out!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Thursday, August 29, 2019

AN AGE OF BARNS ERIC SLOANE

I grew up in North Brookfield, Mass and enjoyed playing in Wendemuth's barn! The cows were secure in their stanchions as Fred & Bert Wendemuth did their chores. Loose hay was taken in from the bucolic fields surrounding the farm. Then it happened:

THE WEATHERED BARN BOARDS WERE STRIPPED AND SOLD BEING REPLACED BY JUNK!

The illustrated yellow barn may be seen on Rufus Putnam Road, NB.

Sloane's An Age of Barns is profusely illustrated by the many adaptations and style of barns built. Barn Builders were exacting craftsmen. Barn raising was a social event. Cupolas and weathervanes were a decorative interpretation of the big picture.

Today, It seems barns are a thing of the past? Dad and Uncle Al converted a barn into a house.. the one where Dr. Praham lived on South Main Street! There continues to be a romance in barns. Some fell prey to spontaneous combustion or fire. The exquisite foundation  of the barn exists today on Coy Hill WB.



ERIC SLOANE'S BOOKS

"The Carpenter who builds a good House to defend us from Wind and Weather, is far more serviceable than the curious Carver who employs his art to please his Fancy" is taken from an old tool pamphlet  -  1719.

Being the son of a carpenter I submit there's much truth to the quote.

A Museum of Early American Tools Eric Sloane is a wonderful book of illustrations and explanations of antique tools that made American homes. Long before power tools the hand-forged hand tools were truly an extension of the hand!

As an estate auctioneer I handled antique hand-tools. They are collectible and reveal the ingenuity and cleverness of blacksmiths and others before the Industrial Revolution.

When I see all of those beautiful Victorian Mansions here in the Brookfields I think of the men who plied their trades. Sloan's book  is rife with categories:
  • A World of Axes
  • The Hatchet
  • Hammers
  • The Axe and the Log House
  • The Adze
  • Wedges and Froes
  • The Fine Art of Splitting The Drawknife
  • The Chisel
  • Planes
  • The Moulding Plane
  • The Rabbet Plane
  • Early American Saws
  • Bits, Braces and Bitstocks
Today, antique tools may be found in flea markets such as Rietta.
Looking for a new hobby? Collect antique tools!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A CLEAR SKIES THURSDAY

Blood glucose read 107  Weight 170 lbs.

It appears we were spared from extensive rain and clouds. It is good for the first day of school in the Brookfields is exciting. All grandchildren are "off and running."

In reading the newspapers just now it seems the president is beleaguered with credibility or lack thereof. The tariffs reveal GM will take a big hit as 43% of their business comes from China! Trump is flim flam!

Have been walking a short distance at the head of the Town Common without a cane. My back muscles are stiff. I persevere!

Labor Day weekend is coming up! Enjoy!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

A CHANGE IN THE WEATHER

Blood glucose read 96  Weight 169.4lbs.

It amazes me how the weather and its potential affects humanity! Although the potential hurricane is in the Caribbean the conversation at the N B Senior Center was speculative to say the least. Began raining intermittently about 2:00 PM.

Batten down the hatches!

The Spencer Fair and Warmer may fall prey to the weather. Too bad as all vendors rely on a good attendance.

Today was payday and pay bills. I've got my share of medical bills otherwise things look good.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

WHAT GIVES WITH THE NORTH BROOKFIELD TOWN HALL?

Dale Carnegie had a great quote about getting things done:

"I KNOW MEN IN THE RANKS AS THEY STAY IN THE RANKS BECAUSE THEY DON'T HAVE THE ABILITY TO GET THINGS DONE!"

Here it is almost September and the fabled North Brookfield Town Hall's paint job is stalled.. again! Scraping on the South side reveals much more work to be done. With a mechanized crane just sitting there I ask What the hell is going on?

On second thought, I think plastic siding is the answer not paint. With paint, after several years, it'll need painting again!

The Italianate  monstrosity reflects the community. Where is the pride of its citizens? At this rate, completion will be the Twelfth of Never!  Restoration will cost millions. Essentially this one building seems to have been abandoned.

Pro bono workers is not the answer: Businesses and  concerned citizens are. What about the Commonwealth of Massachusetts? With the billions raked in with the Lottery, clearly the North Brookfield Town Hall deserves help.

"I know men in the ranks as they stay in the ranks because they don't have the ability to get things done!"

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN
Not a man in the ranks!
 
 

Monday, August 26, 2019

APOLLO 11 DOCUMENTARY

The West Brookfield Library has received a new DVD on Apollo 11.The 1 Hr. 33Mins film is " ENTIRELY AWE-INSPIRING"  The New York Times. It is a "cinematic event" that covers everything from JFK's 1961 vision to re-entry and boarding the USS Hornet. Armstrong, Aldrin and Collins were quarantined for 18 days upon re-entry.

Yes, fifty years have passed by since July 20, 1969 but the message mustn't be forgotten.  Youth must be informed and instructed.

"We choose to go to the moon".. and we did!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A LOOK AT TATTOOING

Morning numbers: Blood sugar 85  Weight about 169! Temperature 46

TATTOOING

'Tattooing has been practiced across the globe since at least Neolithic times, as evidenced by mummified preserved skin and ancient art and the archeological record."

Tattooing has traditional practices according to the country. In North America "tattooing wasn't a simple marking  on the skin: it was a process that highlighted cultural connections to Indigenous ways of knowing and viewing the world, as well as connections to family, society and place."

The Electric Tattoo Machine was invented by a man named Samuel O'Reilly in 1891 but it wasn't until the 1950s did a Tattoo Renaissance occur. Today "tattoos are part of global and Western fashion." No matter where you look many Millennials and older folks are making statements with their expansive tattoos.

It seems more and more Major League baseball players have tattoos on an arm. It was in the 1940s Uncle Albert came home from the U.S. Army with two birds emblazoned on his upper chest. Uncle Fred had the image of a nurse on his right forearm! "The counterculture of the 1960s began to display their body as signs of resistance...Today the clientele has changed from sailors, bikers, and gang members to the middle and upper class!"

'In 2012, tattooed women outnumbered men for the first time in history.. according to a Harris poll tattooed women outnumbered men for the first time in history 23% compared to 19% of men!"

US military has regulations regarding tattoos.  "Soldiers are permitted to have tattoos as long as they are not on the neck, hands or face."

Face it, tattoos are personal. I admit of having an  attitude but now, understanding the heritage and evolving of this art form on human skin makes me think twice!

Info from Wikipedia

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Sunday, August 25, 2019

THE LAST SUNDAY IN AUGUST

Blood glucose 103    Weight 168+LBS

Suddenly we are in the last week of August!

The morning was cool.. around 50 DEGREES
 and fair weather clouds flirted with the sun. My day was quiet watching television AND PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE "AMY", plus  tooling around the Brookfields and now watching the Red Sox from San Diego. They have had a good late-in-season run. But we must wait until next year.

Saw Josh and family in the aftermath of the big bash last night. Kids were happy. Very generous of our hosts!

"That's all folks!"

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN



Saturday, August 24, 2019

A HAPPY BIRTHDAY PARTY ON BIRCH HILL WB

SonJosh turns 45, Evie turns 6, Madeline 11, and the party was idyllic on this Saturday in August. Family and friends gathered on the 19 acre estate of Josh & Heidi. Kids swam in the pool, played games, and frolicked as old folks sat and chatted about the latest goings on in West Brookfield. Later camp fires took the chill out of the air as birthday presents were opened. Cotton candy was a favorite with the youth. It is wonderful seeing family and friends congregate!

Earlier Poor Richard and I returned to Twin River and left all of our winnings at the casino. I think we have had a fill for now. Must find a new "hobby."

Tonight will be much cooler. The hottest thing around are the Boston Red Sox!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN
A Founding Father



Friday, August 23, 2019

CLEARING SKIES IN THE WEST

Blood glucose reading 108  Weight 168lbs + gaining on it.

Today will be a good day with health aids coming in later on. Aleve PM is working. I had a good night's sleep going to bed later.

The political world is in flux. Some candidates are dropping out and Trump may have some competition from fellow Republicans.  The President seems wishy-washy on many issues. He sure knows how to insult the world.

USA TODAY is down to bare-bones. Think I will no longer read it. The New York Times, for a dollar more is far more comprehensive.

Lunch at the West Brookfield Senior Center.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Thursday, August 22, 2019

ANOTHER HOT DAY

In reviewing mother's weather records of 25 years I note August had a few low readings of 40 degrees mornings and one.. in 1982.. to 36 degrees! We must be patient to savor those cool mornings at our doorstep..

Did get my new Fossil wristwatch band adjusted.$10 - Cormier Jewelers Spencer. The stainless steel case and band is truly imposing and the Roman Numerals and second sweep make this 21 jewel watch a conversation piece!

Stopped by Salvation Army in Spencer.

Back room organized. Fun looking over early e-mails of 2007 Telegram.com. Letters from SonBen.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN



NORTH BROOKFIELD HIGH - MRS. MURPHY REMBERED

I first met Mrs. Anne Murphy in 1956 when I was in the eighth grade..." "And what do you want to be when you grow up, Bobby?" "A meteorologist" was my response. I think it blew her away!

I had Mrs. Murphy in my freshman and senior years at NBHS. Better yet I got to know her quite well in her old age. I even assisted her in finding a place to live. On March 7, 1991 Mrs. Murphy's story appeared in the New Leader. Here's a summary of my writing:

"MRS. MURPHY for English was a given"


"Born a posthumous child in 1904, Anna Gertrude Dorney faced an uphill climb from birth. Her mother was a seamstress at White's Overall Factory... Anne was raised, perhaps by three mothers.. Sadie & Estelle Cuddy"  Her teacher, Mrs. Vera Matthew suggested to he while in the fifth grade.." You are Anne!" Anna changed her name!

'Anne Dorney's future began to take shape. Her avid reading of Anne of Green Gables "revealed a young lady producing neighborhood plays!"  'Three years at Bridgewater State College earned Anne a degree."  The love of the arts grew as the young adult took her first post in education at New Britain, CT for an annual salary of $900!"

'Anne married Robert Joseph Carey also a NBHS alumni who went on to Holy Cross then Yale to become a physician. The newlyweds lived in New York City. Anne taught in Laurence, Long Island taking the train each day from Penn Station.'

"Tragedy struck the family as Dr. Carey contracted tuberculous while working at Ellis Island. He was confined to Worcester County Sanitorium for five years and died at age 37 leaving a young son, John, and a daughter, Sally, age 4.' The year was 1939.

Teacher friends helped guide Mrs. Murphy through difficult times.
She returned to NB and married George Murphy in 1944.(George Murphy was a postal worker.)

The Carey children went on to be high achievers.. John a physician and Sally a librarian. Sally was valedictorian at NBHS Class of 1952!

"I didn't give many A's" Mrs. Murphy once confided. Mrs. Murphy wanted to instill discipline and character. " Gum chewing cheapens you" And boy did she let me know of my chewing at my sister's graduation! Mrs. Murphy went 'on and on' mimicking me in class the next day.

The Leach-Murphy leadership at North Brookfield High reigned supreme and it was Mrs.





. Murphy who 'towed the rope!'

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN





.

OPPORTUNITY REDUX

OPPORTUNITY

They do me wrong who say I come no more
   When once I knock and fail to find you in.
For every day I stand outside your door
   And bid you wake and rise to fight and win.
Wail not for precious chances passed away
   Weep not for golden ages on the wane.
Each night I burn the records of the day.
   At sunrise every soul is born again.

Copyright 1923 P F Volland Co. Chicago




P.S. There are many works of P.F. Volland Co. to be found on E Bay!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

REMEMBERING THE KENNEDY/JOHNSON YEARS

The 60s seem so far away! Next year those born in 1960 will turn 60!

I hope educators give the just due to the decade that gave us so much. JFK ushered in 1961 with hope and optimism. Things were happening so fast from the Cuban Missile Crisis to all of the Civil Rights laws. Kennedy and Johnson were Liberals who wanted to make the world a better place to live. The Peace Corps is one example of "giving."

Lyndon Baines Johnson taught school before getting into  politics. He taught Spanish-American kids in Cotillo, Texas. He could identify with the poverty. Sure he was a High Roller who wanted to wipe out poverty in America. The sad thing is the Vietnam War ruined his vision.

JFK was mesmerized with the Space Program. His famous speech at Rice University in 1961 "We Choose To Go To The Moon" set the tone and vision which was fulfilled on July 20, 1969.

U.S. History must be taught in schools across the Land. I think focusing on the Sixties and the events that changed our worlds is worth repeating before it is forgotten!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

LBJ PLANTING  TREE AT SLU 2/14/1964

I WAS THE FIRST ONE ON SITE 2/14/1964!



A RAINY WEDNESDAY

Blood glucose read 139  weight 168.2 lbs.

Aleve PM works! Had a good a good nights sleep with few interruptions. Plan on going to bed later. Gotta get into a Fall mode. 

Alice Jay is now 104 years young! Beyond amazing! Heidi Potvin runner  -Beyond amazing!

More later!

It was a passing shower.. now the sun is out!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN



Tuesday, August 20, 2019

A NICE TUESDAY

The weather today was a tad cooler. Grandson Chase power sprayed the plastic siding on the Poodle and cleaned up my garage. Lunch at the NB Senior Center was good and attendance was low. Hawaii day tomorrow! Janice did a great job as usual. Corn on the cob and a garden salad were tops as was the chop suey. The blueberry biscuit and sherbet hit the spot. Then at mid afternoon I treated myself to Howard's ice  cream cup of black raspberry ice cream.!

Got the LBJ  PBS video at the library. I have watched this historic masterpiece close to 50 times. It seems the tumultuous years of the sixties turned the country on President Johnson.

Got birthday cards for Evie and Josh.. Party Saturday afternoon.

Morning blood read: 109  Weight 166.7 lbs

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Monday, August 19, 2019

A SURPRISE JOHNSON MONDAY VISIT

The dark clouds of a passing thunderstorm with ice in rain drops brought  "Johnson" to my office! "Let's go to the Quabbin!" Right on!

This sultry Monday saw wicked bad weather for those who prefer cooler temperatures like me. We did a short trip and were back before you could say "Jack frost."

I had an interesting call this morning. It seems times have changed so much in the collectibles world. What was collectible 20-30 years ago isn't so today. Many antiques and collectibles dealers, too, have retired. Times have changed and goodies that were desirable then are not now. Baseball cards and other stuff can be found by the wayside.

I admit I am  Retired. My opinion is available and hopefully I can help folks make correct decisions with some common sense opinions!.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Sunday, August 18, 2019

MY SLOW & HOT SUNDAY

I had already gone to bed when my phone rang. It was my buddy calling from Doe Run, GA. J. Maurice Barfield related to the late-summer hear he was experiencing in South Georgia.

I did make a trip to Hannafords for a prescription refill. I questioned why they did not accept Health Safety Net of Mass Health. "Not recognized in a retail pharmacy." I paid $40 for Seroquel.

Have been watching "American Pickers"  this afternoon. Brushing up for my appointment tomorrow morning. Have a comprehensive listing on "Collectibles." I guess anything and everything today is a collectible? LOL.

What do you know about ALEVE PM?

Heat-wave weather will be around this week!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Saturday, August 17, 2019

TWIN RIVER CASINO - 3 VISITS IN 3 WEEKS

Dick Johnson loves to drive! With GPS set we returned to Rhode Island for a little fun. He claimed his free slot play and ended up willing sixty some odd dollars. Your blogger cut his losses to a sawbuck.

We took the low road back vis Route 16 and dined at KFC in Webster.

A hot muggy day. Watched the New York Yankees defeat the Cleveland Indians 6-5.

Blood sugar read this am was at 129 and my weight came in at 166.4 lbs.

Had a passing shower or two. Not my kind of weather!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Friday, August 16, 2019

QUABOAG BOOK SHOP WEST BROOKFIELD, MA


There exists in West Brookfield a quaint book store "with a little bit of everything" according to Jay Horgan, Owner. Formerly The Book Bear.
Some 40,000 + books are waiting patiently for new owners. Folks drive 45-60 minutes to come to this "destination  shop."

Literature is the top choice with Colonial and Revolutionary History second. New England and military topics are sought according to the shop's owner. People will travel.

The Quaboag Book Shop has a large variety of kids and young adult's. There are 13 cases of kids titles.
.
COOKBOOKS are available by the box full. Coffee table and Picture books are offered in a great variety. Back issues of LOOK and LIFE and others are for sale at $2.OO. each.

The average sale on a given book is $7.00.+ Tax. Rare titles and 1st. Editions are offered at $300 - $500!

The Annual Fall Sale is in October where everything is offered at a 35% deduction in price!

The Quaboag Book Shop is open Wednesday - Sunday 10:00AM - 6:00PM.


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Thursday, August 15, 2019

APPLES




As I was driving up Foster Hill Road, WB, just now I was impressed to see the bumper crop of apples on the trees of Honey Bee Orchard!  The reality is we have an abundance of apple orchards in the region from Breezeland to Cheney to Lincoln's Happy Apple Orchard and Ragged Hill Orchard in West Brookfield.

Apple blossom time in May kicks the season off. Beehives are brought in to pollinate the blossoms and over summer nature does its thing. Now as we approach September apples abound. Migrant workers as well as local labor pick the apples one at a time.

Apples are grown around the world. McIntosh and Delicious are popular in these parts. Drops are picked off the ground. The wood from apple trees makes for some good smelling aromas.

Apple cider is a favorite. Here in West Brookfield we have Allen's Cider Mill on Wigwam Road. And then there's Hard Cider!

Visiting places such as Brookfield Orchards on a weekend can add much to the entire process. Baked goods are offered along with the Flea Market offerings. Apple pies.. apple sauce.. apple pan dowdy ..yum..yum..yum!

Yes, Fall is coming so why not rusticate to the Brookfields and beyond? Remember.. an apple a day keeps the doctor away!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

BEAUTIFUL WEST BROOKFIELD

Blood sugar 107   weight 166.4 lbs

The middle of August is upon us. The beauty of downtown West Brookfield from the Rice Memorial Fountain to the Helen Page Shackley Bandstand reveals a historic bent to our conservative community.

Charlie Lapan's colonial is being restored.. big time. This one rehab will sustain the posture of our town. Miller's 1790 colonial on the common is for sale and ready for a rebirth. This home has six fireplaces and is, perhaps, the best location in town.

Restoring homes should be a labor of love. SonJosh and I have done our share in this regard. Antique houses are made to last. Sure it takes $ and a vision and the rewards are plenty.

 West Brookfield is not a mill town! Folks commute to Worcester, Boston, Springfield and beyond. The school systems are excellent. I came back to the Brookfields some 40 years ago and have enjoyed seeing the town prosper.

Want a change? Move to West Brookfield! The inventory of homes for sale is good.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN












Miller's Home 1790

Lapan's House


Wednesday, August 14, 2019

MASSACHUSETTS LOW PLATE LOTTERY

I have always been intrigued by low digit license plates! It is a hobby me and dad enjoyed since the fifties. Traditionally, favored low numbers were considered a political plumb politicians employed for money! The Massachusetts Low Plate Lottery quelled this practice.

This year there are some 231 plates available.  Three digits like 167, 384, 720, 784, 870 lead the list. Four digit plates seem to be plenty. There's an abundance of straight four numbers and letter-numbers make up the remainder of the lottery.

Vanity plates cost $80 every two years. Brother Johnson holds "OZONE" and I have "BLOG."

 Today I registered for the lottery which has a  August 23rd deadline. One of my choices is plate # 3000!

Critics boast plates are a narcissistic endeavor. I disagree! Observing all plates everywhere is a hobby as mentioned. There's even a plate site CoolPL8Z.com carrying all of the plates by state.  Doctor Grace was the connoisseur of collector plates.

Check out https://www.massgov for complete listing.
It doesn't cost anything!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Dr. Tudor of Milton





FLOMAX RESULTS

Blood sugar  115   weight 166.2

Drugs are amazing! In my second day of taking flomax for an enlarged prostate my nocturnal trips to void my bladder stopped. Amazing! Flomax works... but why was my pillow wet from sweating? Must wait for night!

I am pleased to see my weight is increasing.

Today I must replenish my food supplies at Hannafords.

It's clouzy here in the Brookfields. Planning on returning to the NB Senior Center for lunch and socialization.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

HONDA POWER STEERING REPAIRS: $558.51

Car repairs are a way of life! When your car has over 250,000 miles it is expected from time to times repairs will be necessary. Such was the case today.
Initially I was prepared to replace all pipes, hoses & lines to the tune of $420.38. Got as far as Tony's Cleaners and I couldn't steer left or right! I made it back to Kyle's Automotive in Spencer and said 'We have a major problem!' Sure enuf within minutes I was told the power steering pump was shot and needed replacing! "Fix it" I said. $138.13.. no charge for labor!

Now I have power steering!

In other matters, Bridgite came to bathe my body  then Ann-The Therapist
gave me a good workout of exercises. I'm bushed!

Did have lunch at the NB Senior Center -stuffed peppers.

Now I think it's time for a nap!

Watch the price of gold at $1,500 an ounce. The HONG KONG situation doesn't look good!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN


SEPTEMBER SONG - A PRECURSOR OF WHAT'S TO COME

The melancholy and unique sounds of Jimmy Durante sets the tone for where we are in the month of August … almost half way. September is around the corner and the turning of the deciduous leaves has begun.

A couple of years ago I traveled to Plymouth, Vermont, the birthplace of Calvin Coolidge. Never have I seen such a radiant display of  autumn leaves. Nothing can compare!

It's cloudy and warmer here in the Brookfields. Got a busy day planned from lunch at the Senior Center in NB to some more physical therapy with Ann. National Grid is coming to exchange the gas meter and later in the day I get my Honda in Spencer.

Now I go through my routine of a good breakfast and appropriate medications.

"LOOK TO THIS ONE DAY" AND "Make someone happy!"

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN                              

Monday, August 12, 2019

MASS GENERAL UROLOGY

Blood sugar 92   165.6 lbs

Michelle M. Kim, MD, PhD … The examining physician for my prostate concerns.

My 11:00 AM appointment was interesting. It seemed the room was full of old men! I had to void my bladder before meeting with the doctor. In meeting with the doctor we discussed my complaint of frequent urination. She explained in medical terms what it was all about. SonJosh was in attendance.. asked questions and got answers!

We agreed to trying Flomax. Another prescription wasn't available at the time of filling.

We stopped in Waltham for lunch and arrived back in WB at 3:00. Mission accomplished!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Sunday, August 11, 2019

HISTORY CHANNEL THE CARS THAT MADE AMERICA

This documentary covers the history of the cars that made America. I like watching it because it gets into the nuances of how the horseless carriage has evolved from the Ford Model T to the DeLorean. It covers facts on how many models hit big such as the Pontiac GTO to  the Corvair which was "unsafe at any speed."

It is a lengthy production revealing how much Americans really love their cars and trucks.

I didn't realize Lee Iacocca just passed away in July at age 94! Lee was the man who bailed out Chrysler Corporation by repaying the U.S. Government ahead of time. Lee's celebrity net worth is given at $100 Million!

By watching this special I gained insights otherwise would not have been known. It's funny how gas guzzlers went from undesirable to being collector cars. Yesterday "Johnson" and I witnessed a huge car show on our way back from the casinos. Everything today seems to be collected... "Pass."


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN




FIFTY-ONE DEGREES IN THE BROOKFIELDS

Clearly an early touch of Fall is in the air! Clear skies and low humidity is ideal weather .

My night's rest was well above average. The extensive walking at the casinos gave me extensive exercise. I was zonked when I retired at 8:00 pm. I slept until three, had a peanut butter snack and returned in slumber until 5:30.

My subconscious mind prevailed with a dream about Jimmy Cadman. What triggered this dream off was one Richard B. Johnson! Also dreamed about the North Brookfield triplets of the turn of the century! I think their names were Faith, Hope & Charity? Anybody recall?

Blood sugar numbers were high as I ate gram crackers and PB.

No specific plans for the day. Will watch the news programs and see Josh later on.

Fall is coming faster than you think?

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN