A new look

Our home got a new look today with the delivery of a couch in the living room. Wesley has pronounced his approval of this purchase!

Beautiful Calorie-free Candy

 

Glass "Candy" -- Made on Murano, Island Off Venice

Football on a Saturday morning

 As the days grow longer and warmer, there is still time for football on a Saturday morning.

More from Mason City

There are a lot of sculpture around Mason City including in front of the library and art museum. Charles took a stroll around grounds and enjoyed seeing some very creative pieces.

Today in Mason City

A nice place to spend a winter's day

Bob White stained-glass art

Bil Baird marionette exhibit

Painting by Roy Lichtenstein

Sculpture by Alexander Calder

Charles was in Mason City, Iowa for an appointment today, and afterwards, he had time to visit a small gem of an art museum - the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum.
 

Valentine's Day at Thorne Crest

 

L-R: Belinda Alkula, Mel Waters, Marilyn Claussen

Activities Director Marilyn presented assistants Belinda and Mel with Valentine's treats, signaling her appreciation for all they do for the residents at Thorne Crest.

The days are just packed!

Wesley's days are full of naps, watching the bunnies, squirrels, and birds at the feeder, and roaming about the house.

A visit to Alden

We ventured out from Albert Lea for worship this morning, making our way west to the community of Alden to be with the friendly Alden United Methodist Church Family.

The Big Freeze

Intrepid jumpers/divers!

Enthusiastic supporters

The ice is thick!

Charles steps out onto Fountain Lake

Chili cookoff contestants

Charles braved the elements this morning and made his way to Edgewater Park to take in the sights and sounds of "Plunge for the Park," part of today's Big Freeze event in Albert Lea. Between 7-10 teams signed up to brave the plunge into Fountain Lake! Charles didn't take the plunge himself, but he did venture out 10-15' onto the frozen lake just for the thrill! (Meanwhile, Belinda and Wesley enjoyed staying inside our lovely warm home!)

Snow in Albert Lea!

Snow on Garfield Avenue!

A simple sight

The car is safely parked!

We had our first snowfall since before Christmas today, several inches which made our street so pretty!

Congratulations, Belinda!

Belinda won a drawing at Thorne Crest this week, $10 that can be spent at The Bistro, the snack bar open to residents and staff. It will be nice to have that treat to spend!

A walk to worship

A wonderful setting for worship

Beautiful music

 

Fellowship in the old chapel

Charles made the short walk (about 1 1/2 blocks) to Grace Lutheran Church this morning for worship. Thorne Crest has a relationship with this church, the pastor celebrates a Lutheran-style communion each month in our chapel.

A fun morning!

Charles made a quick visit to the Albert Lea Toy Show & Mid-winter Flea Market this afternoon. Lots of fun stuff, some items that were more suited for yard sales, and a fun energy from vendors and shoppers alike.