Friday, April 19, 2019

"A UNIQUELY CORRUPT. UNPATRIOTIC PRESIDENT" USA TODAY

Fighting words are flowing from top journalists. Jason Sattler, a writer based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a member of USA Today's Board of Contributors.

The Muller report is described as being tawdry: gaudy, showy, and cheap. I think the overwhelming majority of Americans couldn't be interested. It's the economy, stupid!'Everybody has a job except for Poor Richard Johnson! I think the whole thing stinks and the Impeachment momentum will build in the weeks and months ahead. Trump defends himself daily and it shows.

"Dirty Politics!"

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

BAYER THE WONDER DRUG DOESN'T WORK WONDERS FOR ME!

Doctor Richard B. Johnson pulled up in his spiffy new Chev truck this morning. We did some of my chores and enjoyed a meal at George's Pizzas and Sub. WB. Dick admitted he couldn't do anything for my condition but volunteered his wisdom of Bayer the Wonder Drug. Naturally I'd try anything at this point so I bought a bottle of Bayer Back & Body 500 mg extra strength hoping to get relief. Two tablets and a nap later I find NO RELIEF! Next suggestion my friends!?

ROBERT L. POTVIN
MAN FOR HIRE! DR. R.B. JOHNSON

THE PIERCING PAIN OF AN ARROW

It's like getting an arrow in your thigh! As soon as I put weight on my left leg the burning sensation begins and gravitates to the lower back. I can only do so much like eat breakfast then I must lay down. Next, I shave then I lie down again. My whole day is in segments!

No definitive plans per se. I endure the best I can.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Thursday, April 18, 2019

MY RESTFUL BUT PAINFUL THURSDAY

It seems the only recourse I have in alleviating pain and discomfort in my back is  lying down in a supine position, sometimes pillow less.

With the news early in the day I connected with Ben and Josh alerting them of my latest challenge to life and living.  Like the guy once said to me when I was looking for a job in Florida.. "But you are 56, Bob!" I say UP YOURS! Now I am 76!

Retrospection in one's life is good. As a historian of sorts I pride myself in keeping my wheels turning. Few know I have a rare blood disease. Living in Vermont I submitted to two bone marrow biopsies! Twenty-eight blood extra inning I am challenged again!
transfusions later I rallied to recover in fine style. Yes, life has its ups and downs and as I go into

I welcome well wishers and company. Today It was Nancy D who brought me a Brookie Burger. Creative as all get out plus fresh fruits and No Fat Breyer's Ice Cream! Weight is down to 169lbs.

I will continue to write my daily blog and welcome your valued opinions.

Thanks for your valued opinions and well wishes!.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

MY MRI RESULTS ARE POSITIVE!

The next level of living is dealing with the problems at hand: Cancer?

Just received word from Brinda Sanjay, MD of the VA. My results reveal certain pathologies in my lower back/spine and more MRI tests will be required. At least I now have definitive findings. Stay tuned!


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

TO WEST ROXBURY VA FOR AN MRI

Getting kind of tired traveling to Metro Boston! At midday I did my homework and found this huge facility with the help of my GPS. I was overwhelmed with what I found: a comprehensive health care facility for all American soldiers. Amazing. I may have been here once before.

This is the third time I submitted to  this study. The first time ten years ago at MGH I panicked and pulled the plug. Now I am a veteran at submitting to this monster and noisemaker. Results should be available tomorrow.

It was 66 miles each way and the Spring season is upon us with blooming forsythias and flowering catalpas. The day was crystal blue.

Tonight the Red Sox are winning in the Bronx! JD Martinez set the stage with a huge home run. I like his style! Go Sox!

The flooding of the Quabaug River in Brookfield is wildly over it's borders!

Dr. Sanjay to call ne in the morning!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN


j d Martinez  my favorite!
 



Tuesday, April 16, 2019

A WINDY BRIGHT TUESDAY IN THE BROOKFIELDS

The most notable feature of our spring season is how green the grass has gotten overnight! Water we have and a trip over to the Quabbin revealed millions of gallons are flowing over the 400 foot long spillway! Our wealth is in our water!

Treated myself to a John's Barbershop haircut.$12. I had it good when Josh the Barber clipped me for free! Did a little shopping at Hanford Brothers NB.

Must travel to West Roxbury VA tomorrow for an MRI! Itching like heck tonight.

Jeopardy captures my interest with the amazing winnings of one man.. a record setter! $$$$$$$$$$



ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Monday, April 15, 2019

A RESTFUL NIIGHT THEN A PAINFUL MOnday

My Sunday night's rest was excellent. I had opened up an outside window and it paid off. When I alighted from my bed all was well for a quick trip to the bathroom then my left side and leg became painful. Before long I was back to square one. My entire day was trying to find a position to relieve the pain.

I find my legs are weak.

The Red Sox game and Boston Marathon captured part of my day's attention. Pain pills just don't work. To Worcester for therapy tomorrow.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

 
 

Sunday, April 14, 2019

A TRANSITIONAL SUNDAY IN THE ROOKFIELDS

The mood was different in the absence of sunshine. Gray and dull as opposed to brightness and the like. The big news was that our beloved Red Sox won over Baltimore!

Tomorrows Marathon race will be wet according to weather reports. I was at the race two years ago when Heidi ran. She says "I'm running next year!"
I will be tuned in to it all the festivities.

Planning on another trip to Boston on Wednesday to the VA in Jamaica Plain. Shouldn't have any problem locating it.

"Kemp-Nut" and I strolled around a bit and made some observations about things. Josh delivered more ground cover for his dad Robert's enterprise. Kemps are hard workers!

Enjoyed a 4 egg supper earlier.

Now it's time to wind down.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Saturday, April 13, 2019

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

It was a great Saturday in April! Puffy clouds graced the skies and the temperature hit 70 plus. It seemed everybody got the message of Mother Nature. Dozens of people walked about town while others did lawn care. Kemp-Nut picked up my yard of pine branches.

Howards Drive in and Jannine's  had lines for ice cream. Never have I witnessed such outpouring of humankind. I did laundry and watched much of the Barrett-Jackson Car Auction in Palm Beach. Steve Magnante was at his finest.

Kemp-Nut and I did some tire kicking at Barnes Enterprises in East Brookfield. Their reputation is great for buying a newer used car. Check 'em out!

The poor Red Sox!

It was a good Saturday in the Brookfields!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

 
Kemp-Nut

 


Friday, April 12, 2019

FRIDAY TRIP STAMINA

In driving to Boston and back on a given Friday requires planning, timing and luck! I allow two hours so I can be ahead of my doctors' visits. The holiday weekend posed more challenges and all ended up in fine order. I got 3 prescription filled for $3.85 each. Parking was only $14.00.

I like my doctors and my doctors like me. They are professional, compassionate and helpful in working towards solutions.

Best yet is observing humankind from around the world. Today I had lunch with an 85 year old lady from Chile! She is worldly and gives insights in many fields. Other folks are friendly as we wait for our number to come up. Mass General is truly a world class operation.(No pun intended!)

It was an 11 hour day without a hitch. Thank you Mass General!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN
Little Evie and Pops at Christmas

Thursday, April 11, 2019

MARTIN D. LEACH NBHS COACH REDUX


MARTIN D. LEACH PRINCIPAL

I was at grandson Chase Potvin's baseball game at David Prouty where the Cougars were romping the Spencer 9. It was more like football weather than baseball as I reminisced about Mr. Leach. He was a competitive winner with Holy Cross College credentials and anathema to my friend "Johnson."

How lucky we were to enjoy baseball regardless of talents. Mr. Leach seemed to bring out the best in all players.. season after season. I think a sports coach in all levels can bring out the best. Kids look up to their coaches!

SPENCER DAIRY QUEEN

I was so impressed in stopping at the Dairy Queen. Met the owner and told him how much I appreciated the DQ enterprise. The place was hopping with dozens of Prouty students and friends. My double cheeseburger hit the spot on an empty stomach. I will do more business at DQ in the future. Nice!

BOSTON

Tomorrow I travel to MGH Boston seeing two doctors. At some point I should get a resolution to all my aches and panes arthritis and then some.

Fenway Park tonight in the confines of my home! Play ball!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN



Wednesday, April 10, 2019

HUMP DAY

Got a call from the Worcester VA stating Dr. Sanjay ordered some x-rays for my left femur and lower back. I drove in and had the procedures.. something I'm very familiar with being a technician in the U.S. Army. Further tests are in line such as an MRI. My discomfort continues.

I traveled at midday and had some nuggets at Holden McDonalds. It was a cold Wednesday.

This afternoon I did some food shopping at Hannaford Brothers, NB.

After watching PBS features on blacks after the Civil War was enlightening. So much history available.. maybe little understanding 150 years later!

Tonight I'm reviewing my Conversational French on YouTube. Although I had 3 years in NBHS, WRJ and SLU I never really had a change to speak French although I did talk with some Vietnamese nationals while in Vietnam more than 50 years ago!

The incredible weather in the Upper-Midwest is awful. I did notice the lawns in the Brookfields are greening up.

Day off tomorrow then to Boston on Friday.

Who is 5'8"? Answer: Alex Trebek of Jeopardy!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN





Tuesday, April 9, 2019

BLOGGING FOR THE FUN OF IT

Yesterday I received two new BLOG Vanity plates. I'm like Doctor Grace was where he hung his rare plates in his bathroom to be adorned. For me, my vanity plate is unique and my signature.

As I travel around I am constantly observing plate numbers. I love it.  I think it is a good hobby yet I wonder "Why do millions of folks refuse to get a plate that gives them satisfaction? In Massachusetts I feel our plates are truly "The Spirit of America." But why do people reject the thoughts of having a unique identity? For a few bucks more you can call the shots. Instead, plates on new cars are rusty, dented and I say "no pride!"

Now comes the transitional thought to crafting a blog. For me it comes naturally. I look for a timely topics such as the "Red Flops" or the weather. In both cases these topics tear at our souls. Just when we cheer Spring on, a blizzard slams the upper Mid-West. I do read Facebook postings as there is lots of good news to be reviewed. So I ask "why don't you write your own blog?"

Blogging is more than writing. Essentially you create your message right in front of you, add pictures and send it around the world instantaneously. My blogging began on March 7, 2007, and I have crafted thousands of entries and much of these can be found on the 'net. "Adventure Man Bob Potvin" On the Common.co, or Bob Potvin Blogger." As I see it, writing daily is my way of informing and instructing my loyal followers and the world.

I appreciate the good words of my reviewers. Glory W. and Charline W. lead the pack. Today I received such praise from a VA nurse in Worcester who has read my works. I was honored when Suzie said I was "gifted" in this regard. Thanks.

I constantly refer to my Dictionary and Thesaurus and other sources for exact meanings. I do scan The New York Times and USA Today for ideas. I am not a perfectionist. Too many folks get hung up in worrying "how does it sound?

Each day is a new day and each day is revealing to possible submissions.
"READ MY BLOG!"











ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN


RED SOX OPENING DAY 2019

OPENING DAY 2019  FENWAY PARK BOSTON

In the confines of my home I enjoyed watching all of the festivities on my giant screen television. The successes of the Boston Red Sox are truly tantamount to all reverses of the curse of past seasons. It seems the collective championships of both the Red Sox and Patriots have made believers of everyone. Today I enjoyed a combination pizza from Northeast Pizza for $10.50 and a diet coke. Had I gone to Fenway Park my expenses would add up to $200 or more.(Ticket $95..parking $50.. food $50 and other ancillary expenses!

Home from a tour in Vietnam I played hooky and attended the game's Opener in 1969. That year I attended some 20 games and even got to see 2 games at the St. Louis-Detroit World Series in St. Louis.. For years sons Ben and Josh were treated to Opening Day games in Boston.

The beauty of all World Series rings makes a statement. Every member of the Red Sox organization received their own ring and attendant mahogany box. The heft of the gold jewelry looks like it weight as much as a $5 bag of sugar.

Today's event transcends sports activities in NCAA basketball. And now the Sox are having major problems playing like champions! What's wrong? Have successes  gone to their heads? Successes  Hope not!

A Toronto hitter just stole home on a pitch by Chris Sale. Come on!

The season is young and hopefully the Sox will pull it all together!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN




Monday, April 8, 2019

VIRGINIA IS THE NATIONAL CHAMP

Good for a Monday.. good for any day 140 pageviews!

Virginia defeats Texas Tech !

 
 

KENT STATE SHOOTINGS 1970

 
The absurdity to think 4 college undergrads were killed by armed National Guardsmen  chills my bones 49 years later!
 
ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

VIETNAM WAR PROTESTS





 
 These images of protest reveal the truth about Vietnam. Last night's Tricky Dick on CNN upset me to no end I couldn't bear watching it after 20 minutes! For the first time  since serving my Country I sympathize with the war protesters! The voice of the people was ignored by both LBJ and Nixon.I saw first hand what military occupation means.  To think over 500,000 troops were stationed in Vietnam blows my mind. The Military-Industrial Complex was revealed with footage of the war sent home and seen nightly on television. The voices of Americans  protesting were ignored Vietnam was a quagmire and absolutely nobody knew how to handle it.+ 58,000 deaths of young soldiers is a sin. Vietnam was our darkest hour!
 
ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN
E-5 MEDIC
VUNG TAU 1967-1968
 
 

Sunday, April 7, 2019

BAYLOR WOMEN ARE CHAMPS!

It was a great come back by the Fighting Irish Women but lady luck favored Baylor. With  seconds left Baylor won 82-81. The lady Irish waged a great comeback to make things interesting. Oh well.

Excitement just can't be beat.




ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Saturday, April 6, 2019

VIRGINIA WINS; A BUMMER FOR AUBURN!

Virginia pulled a rabbit out of its hat at the final .6 seconds. I wanted to see Auburn win a berth to the National Championship in Minnesota Monday night but it just wasn't in the cards! Auburn made a miraculous comeback being down 10 and the coach provided for great displays of emotion. You win some.. you loose some! This victory for Virginia will make Josh happy!


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

FRIED CLAMS AT HOWARD'S DRIVE-IN

Today I treated myself to a clam roll at Howards! It was like Opening Day at Fenway Park. Seafood is expensive ($16) and the serving was excellent. Folks were already lined up before Noon!

Outdoor  and picnic-tables makes Howard's special. The food menu is far-reaching. Maybe the next time I'll treat myself to a Coke and fries. Game on!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

MY SYMPTOMS REMAIN THE SAME

After aborting an attempt to retire at 9:30 PM I got lost in television. The NCAA Women's game and Aerial America -Idaho captured my fancy. I watched with great interest about Idaho, a state I knew little about. The panoramas of the state were revealing. The canyons, gorges and inherent beauty of the Rockies taught me much.

Retiring at Midnight I rested very well. In a recumbent position my discomfort went away and allowed me to enjoy my slumber. Then at 7:00 AM I got up. Within 30 seconds my pain returned shooting down my left
 thigh. Same Ole Same Ole. Now I must take things a task at a time, rest, then go to the next task. Eczema = Eczema.

This evening will be a fun filled Saturday night. Virginia versus Auburn 6:09 PM.. then Michigan State versus Texas Tech. These contest will culminate the basket ball season. Terrific, I say!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Friday, April 5, 2019

NOTRE DAME LADIES SEND THE UNCONN TO THE SHOWERS!

Two years in a row the Notre Dame Irish have sent the UConn Ladies back to Mansfield, CT.

It was a close game down to the final minute. Notre Dame prevailed!
Sunday night for the final game VERSUS BAYLOR.. GO IRISH!


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

MY FRIDAY WITHOUT WHEELS

And the good news is my Honda didn't require front brakes. Parson Auto discovered sand and tars had gotten into the drums. Phew!

It was a cloudy Friday as I listened to WJMJ 88.9 FM from my resting area (my bed.) This one station is my choice located in Prospect, CT. "Johnson" and I have visited the station on several occasions. Catholic radio at its finest.

I found President Trump's Calexico, CA visit very informative. The reality is the Border Patrol has a job to. Very interesting and informative.

Mass General called saying the biopsy taken on my arm relvealed:
another high mileage car 1982 Mercedes Benz
Eczema. All I know is my itch last night was horrible. My back, my arms..my God!
The right of passage happens to be the first day of HOWARD'S DRIVE-IN. The lines revealed a land-office business beyond all expectations. People have been cooped in all winter and today's traffic responded it. I was going to have a clam roll until I witnessed. Unbelievable! Maybe some weekday noon?

I'm curious who had a large funeral-wake at Varnum Funeral Home.? The lines there were as big as at Howard's.

"Chick-Ball" on the basketball courts tonight. U-CONN, of course!

Kemp-Nut drove me to Parsons Auto so I have a car again. Last night I watched a clip on cars and trucks that go 1, 000,000 miles! Normal maintenance and CHANGE THE OIL EVERY 3,000 miles. Honda and Toyota are the best!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Thursday, April 4, 2019

A WINDY-MARCH THURSDAY IN APRIL!

The brilliant sunshine of this day made it feel like March with the gale-force winds in some locations.

I opted to take it easy and I did. Resting is tantamount to my recovery. Saw Chase, Maddie and Evie at Birch Hill. Later Josh drove me back from Parson's Auto. Bought some food at Brookfield Dollar General.

Just now watched a Documentary on LBJ's presidency - July, 1966.He was one imposing president!

So now I retire, in the confines of my abode.


ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

MAIL FROM ALEX TREBEK

In this day of e-mails, I have hit pay dirt in  my blog about Alex Trebek! Alex sent an autographed press photo and a hand-written postcard "Dear Bob, Thanks for the kind words and the info. All the Best,  Alex T."


Fan mail is one thing but the immediacy of obtaining a response shows me the character and humanness of Alex Trebek! I wish Alex well! My writings were mailed March 10, 2019!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

SYMPTOMS ABATE AT BEDTIME:RECUR UPON ARISING

Funny thing. I go to bed and my symptoms go away. I get up and they're back.

Glory Wedge suggests shots of B-12. Must check with Dr. Sanjay!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN



Wednesday, April 3, 2019

ECZEMA & SCIATICA

Sarna is the analgesic lotion recommended for my itch. It ain't working as several times today I have applied a coating to my forearms. All over my back it is one big itch... a bitch!

Now for the second batch of ailments come the low back and left thigh discomfort.. I must rest after doing simple tasks like shaving, eating breakfast of whatever. I must endure this. PT hasn't helped. Pain pills don't seem to work.

I did get out and go to the cleaners in Spencer then to the NB Senior Center for a pork lunch. Chase's baseball game was cancelled because of high winds.

Tomorrow I drive to Worcester then drop off my Honda for brake resolution.

Hanging tough!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

FROM BORDER CLOSING TO THE FINAL FOUR

To say the least, President Trump goes from topic to topic in controversy! The truth is Mexico provides the USA with so much from avocados to automobile parts. Why can't we just live in peace? I am afraid a closing will just make matters worse!$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.

The Final Four National Semifinals are on Saturday from Minneapolis. Virginia (33-3) plays Auburn (30-9) and Michigan State (32-6) goes against Texas Tech (30-6). I favor Auburn and Michigan State! The National Championship will be played on Monday, April 8.

I did enjoy a luncheon at the NB Senior Center. Good to see all of my old friends! Plan on going back tomorrow.

Today's weather was more moderate.. sunny much of the day. I don't like what's
July flowers
 coming our way. Snain! Some lawns are revealing tinges of green. A month from now it will be just wonderful!

Honda is going in to Parson's Automotive on Friday as I have break concerns.

My popcorn is ready so I'll close for now!

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

Monday, April 1, 2019

AN OK MONDAY

It was "Monday as usual" seeing me greet the day which was bright and cold. Spring just isn't going to be a pushover in the Brookfields! And to think I heard the "S" word in the forecast! The sun's rays are worm and the west wind is cold.

Did my laundry before going to physical therapy. My therapist, Tony, is the best. I went through a series of muscle stretching and even did 5 minutes on the treadmill. A little sore tonight. Back in 8 days.

Had a visitor from the NB Senior Center when I got home. Diane Nichols, Director and enjoyed chatting about things. Diane is on the ball!

I've got a couple of issues to be rectified with the Honda: Brakes, emergency brake and gimme me a break!

As old Joe Walsh sings 'One Day At A Time!' Now,
it is relaxing music.

ROBERT LOUIS POTVIN

FLASH! SMALL PLANE LANDS ON MASS PIKE IN CHARLTON