A DISTURBING DAY OF DISTURBING NEWS!

From the news about Holyoke Soldiers' Home to the mounting list of deaths from the Coronavirus, the news is a tough pill to swallow!

I found reprieve by doing things that pleased me like visiting the grandchildren at arm's length on Birch Hill. I brought some tutorial goodies like a feature article on Beethoven and his 9th symphonies. Maddie and Evie were my students and I'm thrilled how they received my offering! In a week we'll review the symphonies on You Tube!

I stopped by HOWARDS Drive in and talked briefly with owner Mark Adams. "We may offer takeout beginning on Friday?"

I then got my oil changed at Ken's Citgo in EB. $28.00.

NETFLIX offers a documentary "Trump - an American dream." For those who want to learn more about "THE DONALD" I highly recommend watching it. The pieces to his jigsaw puzzle fit! Amazing man. Watch it!

Nothing worth mentioning about April Fool! Hang tough, Americans and the world!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

ANOTHER QUIET DAY

Blood glucose 89

It wasn't a pleasant day weatherwise but it was a good day otherwise!

The laundry routine in Warren saw me back by 10:00 A.M.  Then I make the bed etc.

I'm selective in what news I watch. I am more interested in watching American Pickers. I learn and I nap. It works out good for hours.

The Presidential press conference in the Rose Garden is always interesting. It's all Trump with all of the answers... ambivalent and all!

"Get Me Roger Stone" was worth watching again. All Trump fans must watch this NETFLIX special if you want to see the truth.

Got a fix on melatonin from the VA. Am getting better sleep.

Plan on getting an oil change tomorrow at Ken's Citgo EB.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

HOW TRUE!

ANOTHER QUIET DAY

My Sunday was a quiet one. I caught some of the news programs.. none seemed to have inspiration! Lots of "promises." The presidential conference from the Rose Garden and Mr. Trump was interesting. "The Donald" got testy, again, when the reporter from PBS cornered him. Enough of the president goes a long way. Clearly the world is in deep "du du!"

Traveled to Hannaford for some grub. "Social distancing" ruled and evidence of hoarding persists. But why? I say "buy what you need."

Saw Josh at Birch Hill where he was working in his barn on a bicycle repair. Josh demonstrates talents in many areas including mechanics. Ben called from Belmont, NC as usual.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

SATURDAY IN WEST BROOKFIELD

Blood glucose 115      Weight 172lbs.

I didn't leave town today; I did leave my house - twice.. once for the newspaper at Country Corner and once for a trip to Birch Hill and Josh & family.

I did see Josh on my way to the newsstand. He presented me with a bag of chocolate milk cartons and cupcakes and a sandwich. It seems he knows where to go!

My auctioneer buddy J. M. Barfield phoned from Doerun, GA relating they are mowing their lawns and enjoying 90 degree temperatures! How nice. By contrast our season hasn't kicked in yet.

My day was spent watching "YEARS OF LIGHTENING  DAY OF DRUMS." This one video covers the JFK tragedy and the 1000 days spent in office. Nothing compares to this documentary...even Roger Stone!

Ennui is setting in. Seems everyone is looking for purposes.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

MY QUIET FRIDAY IN WEST BROOKFIELD

Blood glucose 125

My day began early as my Buddy, Kemp-Nut came early to do some housework. He mopped the floor, picked up a bit and tried washing a window. It was a brief visit and I paid him a few bucks.

The news headlines are all about the massive lay-offs. West Brookfield seems to "dead" without activity. I got my 2 newspapers and read them twice trying to figure things out!

Late morning saw a phone call from my friend, Joe T. in Worcester. We have many similar interests and gabbed for 45 minutes. Tonight I got a call from Nancy D. getting me caught up in local stuff.

The highlight of my Friday was sitting out in my breezeway enjoying the warmth of the sunshine. It was quiet except for  commuter traffic. No Roger Stone today!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Ragged Hill sunset

A GOOD THURSDAY

After a decent night's rest I got ready for a busy morning. The New York Times and the USA TODAY get my brain turning… then I headed out for Spencer. Tom tells me his dry cleaning business is flat. " I have had only 4 customers so far."

Then my trip down the Pudunk Pike and Fiske Hill, Sturbridge brought me to Mr. Edward's gas station where gasoline is sold for $1.879 a gallon. Down again from last week! All gas stations in Sturbridge are much cheaper than the Brookfields.

The car wash at C&R Tire was closed so I headed for NB. Hannaford limited bottled water to "two".

Next came a car wash in NB for $8.00. I wiped down my Honda after the wash. My car runs better when clean! LOL.

After lunch I took full advantage of the warm sunshine of late March.
I lounged in my easy chair for a good hour of sun.

After a nap I chose to watch "Get Me Roger Stone" on NETFLIX again! I am intrigued by the way this man operates. As mentioned Stone and Trump are twins. Do yourselves a favor and watch how these men operated!

I try not to dwell on the facts surrounding the Coronavirus. My son Josh truly concerned with my well-being! Thanks, Josh.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

 

TRUMP'S FRIEND  ROGER STONE

 

 

A DISCOVERY - NETFLIX

"Get me Roger Stone" is the first special I watched on my TV. Son Josh logged into his Netflix account and I enjoyed watching all about Roger Stone for an hour and a half! Stone, like Trump, thrives on controversy. They are kindred spirits so it seems. Anybody looking for some insight into what makes Roger tick should watch this!Of course the President pardoned Mr. Stone!

Kinda miss my vanity plate!

My Wednesday was all business. I began by doing my banking and learned a new way of doing banking: a vacuum tube! I transferred funds from my savings at home then went to the NBSB.

In the afternoon I filled my pill caddy with drugs for a month. It took over an hour and worked. Next time I may recruit Josh to help.

Didn't dwell on all of the news today.

Tomorrow I go to Spencer for clothes then to Sturbridge for "cheap" gas.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

CENSUS COMPLETED ON-LINE

Blood glucose 130

The late March snow amounted to about 3-4 inches. Abundant sunshine melted more than half and by sunset much of the ground was clear, again. Evidence reveals plowing was done.

Part of my day was reviewing 10 volumes of the LIFE History of the United States. I reviewed all volumes by noting the paintings and pictures. It took 2 hours and served as a refresher. Much of my knowledge comes from being a U.S. postage collector and coin enthusiast. Yesterday I reviewed the RED BOOK Price Guide 2020.

My right side of excruciating pain persists when I walk. Sitting down is my only resolve! Neuropathy is experienced in both feet with evidence of poor circulation in my lower legs and feet.

VA Nurse Denise called regarding things. Son Josh will fill my pill caddy as agreed.

Days are getting longer! I enjoyed some late afternoon sunshine.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A SNOWY RETROSPECTIVE MONDAY

Blood glucose 100  Weight 171lbs.

The day started as rain and a bare ground. Now at 2:21 Route 9 is snow-covered. It all began two hours ago. Slush and plowing prevails. We haven't seen this amount of snow in "months."

After doing laundry I did watch some news then decided it would be better if I watched some music videos to soothe my soul. First, I watched CARPENTERS GOLD. Karen sings uplifting songs. Then I watched AIR SUPPLY. Music is what the doctor ordered.

Earlier in the day I tuned in to TUNE-IN WJMJ FM 88.9. This is a good Christian station playing good music. I like the Dee Jay Jerry Christopher and others.

Received a call from Jim Kordek of Warren inquiring about investing in GOLD. I told Jim "CASH IS KING!"

My VA nurse Denise wants me to take care of filling my pill caddy. Suggests Josh help.

And so it goes...A Monday in late March!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A QUIET SUNDAY IN THE BROOKFIELDS

It was routine for the most part. It cold with readings in the thirties yet the sunshine made it feel warmer.

The Kenny Rogers obituary in the New York Times is comprehensive. Am sending it to my son Ben, my pop music historian!

I drove to Hannaford, NB. The market was abuzz. Hoarding food seems to be the rule. One customer was observed with buying ten loaves of bead! I had to get larger water bottles over my little ones. Got some seafood salad finger rolls.

After lunch, "Josh-the-Barber" clipped my bald head. Then I opted to sit in my easy chair taking in some rays for over an hour. Nice. Ben called at six.

More Trump later in day. The overall news seems scary if you ask me!

Dirty laundry tomorrow morning!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

JOHNSON'S HUMMER OF GOOD TIMES PAST!

KENNY ROGERS TRIBUTE

If there's one performer who brought out the best in story-telling it was Kenny Rogers! This afternoon Josh, Heidi and kids were warmed by a campfire featuring the songs played on Alexa by Kenny.  It was an intimate gathering with grandkids playing. It was brilliant sunshine as Josh kept wood burning and roasting marshmallows.  Tomorrow's New York Times will have a lengthy obituary about Kenny's long life..

Did go to Lowe's in Ware with Josh for supplies.

In other news I found gasoline in Sturbridge at $1.93 a gallon.. down four cents from last week. Just how low will it go?

As far as Roger's tunes go  I like the GAMBLER best.

One more day of sunshine then snow on Monday. Beware!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A QUIET FRIDAY ON THE HOMEFRONT

Blood glucose 115    Weight 172 lbs.

After a near perfect night's sleep I took my time waking up in my routine.
Son Josh called early exhorting the seriousness of things. I heeded his advice. Seems I may be in denial as it is coming at us from every direction!

I was amused how President Trump laid into the reporter. Is the president losing his cool?

Seems everything in the Brookfields has closed from John's Barber Shop to Cozy Cut. The NB Town Common is closed too!

After getting the New York Times and the USA Today I read with interest a front page story about dishonest dentists in America. Not good!

And then there's snow in the forecast! Spring, you say?

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Spring Street, NB. Drazek's

EXCESSIVE SHOPPING HABITS

I couldn't believe my eyes as I approached the red meat display at Hannaford's today! EMPTY! It was if the meat was being given away. Other areas of the store reveal a situation never known before: excessive shopping habits! The other day I saw a lady with at least six gallons of water in her carriage! But why?

"Cash is king!" I am as guilty as anybody with ten rolls of toilet paper in my bathroom.

I think we must come to realize life will go on.!

Today was a quiet day with much television and a few naps. This time Pawn Stars caught my interest. Sister Jan called and chatted along with other calls. It seems the phone is one great way to keep in touch!

Why are all the trees being cut down along Route 9 WB?

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A BIRCH HILL CAMPFIRE

The highlight of this Wednesday came late in the afternoon when Josh invited me over to his house. Earlier I had sat in the sunshine. The day was quiet. Much of the television was on presidential news conferences and watching Bloomberg.

While at Josh's, I enjoyed my grandchildren .. Evie and Maddie riding their little electric cars as Josh got a campfire going. Spring was in the air I thought. Grandson Chase was lounging around. All enjoyed their new found freedom of "school at home."

Saw Joe Shepard in the afternoon. We chatted about the impact of things in the antiques and collectible field amongst other things. Nobody knows what the future holds!

The newspapers are having fun with President Trump's credibility. Each day it's a different story! I watch the commodities especially gold and silver.

So much for this blogger.. I ask "how was your day?" The best news is Spring is here!

March 26, 2016  SALEM'S!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

REMEMBERING MY FRIEND, JACK SWEDIS

It all began in Texas when I met this soldier from Worcester: John T. Swedis said he was from "Worcester." This was 1966.

Over the years my friendship with Jack blossomed into many activities from being my right hand in real estate restoration to building my Dream House atop Birch Hill, WB. Further, Jack was in my wedding party in 1969.

Jack made many of my ambitions happen. He was a union electrician and imparted his wisdom to me from installing 200 ampre  serviced in two restorations. He made my work easier. We worked as a team. When silver boomed in 1980 Jack became my driver to Quincy to the smelter then to New York City to redeem silver bullion & coins.

Jack liked talking history and was an intellectual.

Jack and Paula adopted three children.. Heather, Scott and Josh. They resided in Spencer on R. Jones Road. Jack passed away about 5 years ago and is sorely missed. He truly was a Faithful Friend!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

ST. PATRICK'S DAY BLIZZARD 1956

I was in the eighth grade at St. Joseph School, North Brookfield, MA when the storm began. That winter had been open. Then, bam, before it was over we had THREE blizzards in eight days. The snow atop Fullam Hill Road drifted across the road and required a bull dozer to clear.We had thunder snow. The Greek freighter Etrusco was grounded at Scituate Harbor and remained that way until November! It was from this weather Don Kent gained fame and fortune!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A MONDAY LIKE NO OTHER

The world is responding to the coronavirus! From the medical fields to the financial world to big and small businesses, never before have we met the enemy! How will we behave? Fear? Anger? Hope?

Each soul has a myriad of emotions. Never before have we been dealt such a scourge! Each day will bring new challenges. Kids will learn differently as will adults and seniors.

Spring will be in the air. Flowers will bud and bloom. Each day we grow a bit older yet we just don't know humanity's fate!

GOLD may take a new luster and silver not.  Money takes on a new meaning. Prayer may be rediscovered? Too many things are nowhere near resolution. The key word in all languages will be HOPE! We must look each day to a new beginning. I am learning. Are you?

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

BLOOMBERG SOUNDLESS - A NEW WAY OF WATCHING THE NEWS

Watching television without listening to the din is a good idea! Bloomberg has a myriad of topics including headlines, commodities and all other money-related rates, quotes and up to the date stories! Voices aren't necessary!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A CRYSTAL BLUE SUNDAY IN THE BROOKFIELDS

Not much to write about this Sunday. It was a cold day with moderate winds from the Northwest. Again I enjoyed Aerial America featuring Boston 24 and Washington, DC. Boston is like no-other.. culture. history.. sports. DC is another cultural icon.

The New York Times has a feature story on David Rubenstein, celebrity and billionaire. Mr. Rubenstein has donated millions in the preservation of our American History.

• $21.3 Million paid for a copy of the Magna Carta
• $632,500 amount paid for a newspaper printing of the Declaration of Independence
• $ 2.1 Million paid for a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln
• $10 Million spent to help repair the Washington Monument
• $18.m Million Amount pledged to help repair the Lincoln Memorial

The munificence of Mr. Rubenstein is noble and sets a great example.

NB Senior Center for lunch tomorrow along with laundry in Warren.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A DIFFERENT WORLD, FOR SURE!

Blood glucose 125

It seems we no longer live in times of optimism. Virtually everything is closed and we are required to a period of introspection.

I did watch much television today. The morning matinee was in watching several versions of Aerial America on the Smithsonian Channel. In particular was WYOMING. I lived in Laramie in the Fall of 1999 and traveled throughout the big state in my yellow Cheyenne truck. Today's review was good.

Next came the president and his USA ballcap. It seems this casual attire wasn't very presidential if you ask me! This is day one of our new world.

The thought about the price of GOLD is in my mind. As a commodity the price fluxuates and 8interestingly enough it dropped back about $70 an ounce yesterday. Watch  what happens next week!

The next phase of my Television Saturday came in watching America in Color.. also on the Smithsonian Channel. This segment covered the Roaring Twenties and crime. It seems gambling was always part of our lexicon. These programs in color are great!

I did take a spin around Brookfield and North Brookfield late in the afternoon after speaking with Josh. Boy do I miss my college basketball Saturday!

Stay tuned as the world is changing right before our eyes!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

CHEAP GASOLINE $1.999 GALLON. - STURBRIDGE

Two stations in Sturbridge are selling gasoline for $1.999. In West Brookfield gas is about 1.45! It paid me to drive from Spencer to fill it up. I bought $21 - cheap!

The media is full of talk about the virus. Who do you believe? The sad thing is all of USA has closed. Thank God Spring weather helps us endure. The Rose Garden from the White House revealed flowering trees.

Senior Center NB breakfast went on. Sorry I missed it.

Forecast is good for Saturday... windy and cold. The wind did gust over 40 mph late this afternoon

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

West Brookfield

A DISAPPOINTING CONFUSING THURSDAY

It seems the optimism of Spring has faded away before it came! Everything has been cancelled. The biggest disappointment was the Big East Tournament in NYC. All events in America seem to have been taken from us. I'm not so sure the president knows the score!

Josh and I traveled to Hannaford for a supply of food. Toilet paper was sold out so we went to Dollar General!  LOL.

Financial markets are the lowest since 1987. Silver and gold are down. Who knows what Friday will bring?!

The highlight of my day came in reviewing a collection of old coins. Nice stuff!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

PANDEMIC WEDNESDAY

Too much to digest if you ask me!

Did watch St. John's crush Georgetown in the Big East Tournament at MSG. The teams are off and running. Who knows if the public will be admitted for the remaining games? Tomorrow noon St. John's faces Creighton.

This hump day was good. Kemp-Nut stopped by and did a little cleaning up of my pad. Saw Josh briefly.

I'' interpret the president's message after reading tomorrow's New York Times!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

My boy Kemp-Nut

A DIFFERENT TUESDAY IN MARCH

This Tuesday didn't have the warm sunshine of yesterday! It was a day of television and lunch at the North Brookfield Senior Center. the crowd was small and the meal was a 1 out of ten! Meatballs, corn and rice. Cupcakes and Jello for desert.

Gearing up for the Big East Tournament tomorrow.

How are you adjusting to the time change? Many folks complain! Me too!

I enjoy the music and entertainment found on You Tube. Tom Jones, in particular.. 'The Green Green Grass of Home.' Olivia and Linda Ronstadt with their trials and tribulations. Women of great courage!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A 72 DEGREE MONDAY IN MARCH!

A beautiful day indeed! Folks are out and about enjoying this weather. I, too, enjoyed basking in the sunshine for over an hour after food shopping. Earlier I did laundry.

Seton Hall fell to 16th in the rankings. Will they recover at the Big East Tournament? Next game will be Thursday night at 9:30PM. Stay tuned.

Visited my friend Deny Long in New Braintree later in the afternoon. Poor Deny had a terrible accident a while back. He's on his feet again.

Received some melatonin in the mail today from the VA.

Couldn't locate the full moon just now. Cloudy horizon.

To NB Senior Center tomorrow for lunch.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A MARCH SUNDAY

Weight 172 lbs.

The Spring sunshine brightened up the day. By afternoon temperatures were in the 50s. The switch over to Daylight Savings was orderly. I opted to remain in bed for an additional half hour. I enjoyed sitting in an easy chair in the sunshine for more than an hour later in the day!

My trip to Marshall's was productive. I bought a new plaid shirt and black trousers for a total of $59.98.

The spirit isn't the same for Seton Hall enthusiasts. The New York Post featured a sad photo of the team on the bench after the Creighton loss. Next week's ratings will not be pleasing.

Caught a glimpse of the moon at rising. Full moon tomorrow will be tomorrow. Full Worm Moon. Check it out. I will.

Routine laundry detail for tomorrow.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

SETON HALL FALLS TO CREIGHTON 77-60

The Pirates of Seton Hall began the game with optimism. Each team answered the opposition with a basket. At half-time the score was tied at 32. The game progressed in a tie at 47...then things happened. Miles Powell had another poor showing. Then the Creighton afterburner set in with three-pointers. Sad to say the least. The optimism of a close game faded as Creighton now shares the title for first place. What will happen? Nobody knows!

Today was brilliant sunshine and damn cold. Saw a deer run across the road going up Foster Hill! The waxing gibbous moon is poised for  a Full Worm moon Monday night.

Must go to Marshalls Sunday for new trousers.

"Spring Ahead"  Daylight Savings Time!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A GOOD FRIDAY

Gasoline in Sturbridge at Edward's at Fiske Hill is $2.09! In West Brookfield it is $2.51. Go figure! Got a $5 car wash at C&R Tire.

My day was routine with Tony's Laundry pick-up and drop-off. Received Nat Grid light bill: $139.05. Last Month $139.89!

A highlight of the day came in visiting the Quaboag Book Shop 508-867-8705.. Two copies of History of East Brookfield  by L.E. Roy, MD are available. Being the 100th anniversary of the town  this will make a great addition to all libraries. I purchased a  'Geography of Worcester County for Young Children' Second Addition 1831!

Getting excited for tomorrow's basketball game between Seton Hall and Creighton  2:30 FSI! Go Pirates.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

A SLOW THURSDAY

It was a slow Thursday after a late-night Wednesday. The loss by Seton Hall to Villanova dampened my spirit somewhat. It seems the Hall came a long way to lose by two points!

Thursday was bright. Much television was watched. Pawn Stars in particular. I did go to NB for some food.

Tonight I watched President Trump at his PA Town Hall rally. It seems he is never short for words. His counter punch technique at some point will expose him. The roaring economy and aftermath may not last until Election Day in November! Elizabeth Warren is out of the race.

I found peace and quiet up Foster Hill. Afternoon sunshine foretells lengthening days. "Spring is truly around the corner."

Good things can happen on Friday!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

SETON HALL - VILLANOVA FINAL - NOVA WINS!

It was a disappointing loss for the Pirates! 79-77  Let's hope they can rebound on Saturday against Creighton! Powell was off.15,863 disappointed fans!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

ELECTION TUESDAY

At 5:00 PM more than 500 registered voters had cast their ballots in West Brookfield. As a registered Republican I opted not to vote. The weather was very mild and even sunny for a while.

Josh encouraged me to "sit out on a chair and bask in the sunshine." I did for an hour listening to Sousa Marches.. then the sun went in. As the season progresses I will sit in the sun as I believe a good tan is a sign of health.

Denise-the-VA nurse came early in the day taking care of all my medical needs. She comes monthly making sure "Old Bob" is getting the proper attention. I did reschedule a visit with Doctor Dey at MGH for March 18 at 12. Haven't seen my hematologist in months!

Tonight Rutgers and Maryland are playing. I am rooting for Maryland who is ranked 9th behind Seton Hall at 8th.

Returns should be interesting. See you in the morning!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

MY SETON HALL MONDAY

The Hall is now ranked 8th in the AP Top 25 Poll! This is good and encourages a great performance Wednesday night against Villanova. Good luck Pirates!

Monday was a full day with laundry and food shopping and a trip to Dr. Brinda Sanjay at the Worcester VA. All is well. 'Don't try to fix things we can't fix, Mr. Potvin! Now I must make an appointment with my hematologist, Bimal Dey, MD.

Watched Mike Bloomberg tonight on Fox. Interesting man with interesting ideas...a highly sophisticated mind! "Long shot?!"

Tomorrow the VA nurse Denise comes at 8:00AM. Today was a good day!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

ST. JOHNS DEFEATS CREIGHTON 91-71

The best news for Seton Hall men's basketball is St. Johns romped over Creighton by twenty points! This means Seton Hall needs  one more victory to clinch the Big East title. This is a monumental victory for the "Johnnies."

Today is crystal blue! It is cold and I plan on driving to the Quabbin.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN