Traveling Bells

Happy Valentine’s Day

2012-02-14T04:29:00.000-05:00

Flowers from my sweetie.

Perfect. Thanks, honey. ILY!

Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said life would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.

Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Hello, sunshine!

2012-02-13T08:50:00.000-05:00

Goodbye shorts! Brr…it is a long pants day today here in paradise. The cold front arrived and cleared out the rain, as predicted. Thankyouverymuch.

This photo was from the day we paddled the Wekiva River. Dick had just put our canoe (with HARD seats) in the water. That was a fun trip…but not one I would want to do today. Did I mention it is cold?

So the flea market trip got canned yesterday, which was no big deal. It will be there another day. I made several earrings, played WWF, and just piddled the day away until time to have enjoy Dorota’s cooking (that got changed to last night, just in case you are keeping up with all this). Yum.

Speaking of yum, we had THE best lobster bisque Saturday at a little place, Mike and Mike’s, that used to be the Boathouse. Guess where we are going tonight? It is only an occasional menu item, so tonight it is. I seriously wanted to lick my bowl clean. I’ll try not to embarrass myself tonight.

Beading stuff has to be put away so I’ll have room to play chef tomorrow. No way do I want to go out on V Day and fight the crowds, plus our ‘guests’ include some short people.

Speaking of V day, raise your hands if you are sick of those big bear commercials? What woman wants an almost 5’ tall stuffed bear??? Pu-lease. Guys, don’t fall for that load of bollocks because that is what it is. And that outfit with the feet on them? Just let me say that you will be VERY disappointed if that is what you present to your sweetie. Try flowers. Or bling.

Have yourself a ginger peachy day. Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Chilly Sunday

2012-02-12T09:47:00.001-05:00

A girl has to work on her tan however she can. Notice the two kitty beds in the windshield…that Missy managed to mostly avoid. But she is currently lying in the L one (hers) right now, surveying her domain. It is 47 outside and windy, but the sun is trying its best to come out and warm us up. My bet is the girl will stay in that bed all day. KC is stretched out on the back of the couch, snoozing already. What a life these two lead!

So what are the big kids doing today? The motley breakfast crew (Bill, Barbara, Dave, Dorota, us) is going up to a flea market in Stuart this morning. No telling what we’ll find, but if there is anything interesting (People of Flea Markets?), you know the camera will come out…and I just stuck it in my pocket so I won’t forget…and it will get posted.

Do something for fun today…and leave me a comment about it!

Life is good, y’all!

Saturday in paradise

2012-02-11T09:51:00.000-05:00

This photo from Sorrento is much prettier than our wet drab outside that is still here, but it is better than Mayberry, where there is a dusting of snow going on. Nothankyou.

So what I created yesterday was mostly a mess, but that has to happen with beading. Stuff here, stuff there. No photo of that wanted! I am mostly fixing and re-doing some things. Stuff wears out and breaks; I change my mind and want something done a little differently. Even a small project requires all the tools to be out and available. I like having my STUFF here so that I can play.

The disadvantage to moho, small-space living is the lack of project space…but MM doesn’t mind the mess. And Dorota is cooking dinner for us tonight, so I don’t have to put it all away just yet…and can still play awhile with my beads. iLikey!

Two kitties sleeping, MM internet surfing…life is good in paradise, y’all! It’s beading time!!!

What…the sun is trying to shine?! Come on sun!

Grounded!

2012-02-10T09:11:00.000-05:00

These guys aren’t flying anywhere around here this morning. Maybe not today. We have a seriously weird rain pattern going on right now…weather radar shows a huge band split, part going north, part going east, and part stationary. Come on cold front---it will sure clean out all this krap!

So that’s your weather report from paradise, just in case you were wondering. Of course we’ll take this over what Ivana is enduring in the beautiful boot country! They have been inundated with record snow. Yuck. You know, maybe this rain isn’t so bad after all. Where’s a snorkel?

So today I actually plan to do a couple of small beading projects. If I remember how! Sheesh, it’s been way too long since I have played with my beads. Yessirree, I’m fixing that.

So who has weekend plans? Ours is low key, but we do gear up next week for folks to arrive, so this is a heads up with my WWF buds…I may be a ‘slow’ player.

It’s all good.

Windy morning

2012-02-09T08:05:00.000-05:00

So where is Mr. Sun? Hiding again, dang it, but the birds are happily chirping outside our windows right now, probably safely in the bushes (since I can’t see a single feather) so they won’t get blown away! Is it March already???

So the good news is that the girls beat the boys last night, and there were six of us playing. That rocks! Twice, but I try not to brag.

Kathy wants to go to the Sailfish Marina for breakfast this morning, so off we shall go…all 6 players. Um, eaters. If the rain cooperates, perhaps we shall have a grudge match later on. Game on, boys!

Have yourself a great day.

Life is good in windy, cloudy paradise, y’all!

Old homestead

2012-02-08T05:14:00.000-05:00

We drove out to our old farm to show Dorota and Dave where our family used to live. Dick and his family moved there when he was 8…a two-lane dirt road that ended at their house. It is now a six-lane major road!

We had a dock just behind my shoulder that frequently had kids and dogs playing around it. The house was to the L where the white fence is (now the community area of this development).

Our beautiful three story house sat right here. It had to be torn down because it couldn’t be turned into a public building because of local codes. Dick moved that big oak tree and planted it back in ‘79, when it was maybe 12’ tall, plus another one or two just like it. They are now huge.

Next we took our friends to see what we referred to as “North Lake,” another lake that Dick and brother Bob made. They had seriously big toys to play with in the sand way back then. It was hard work.

Since we were out roaming around, we drove out to see our old hangar that Dick built in ‘76 at a private airport. It was basic white when we owned it. He also planted lots of trees on this property, including orange and grapefruit trees. Yum. We thought about building there after the farm sold, but moved to Mayberry instead in ‘86. That was a smart decision.

Oh yes, the blue hangar has a big blue house to go with it. My oh my. Changes for sure.

We were lucky that the skies cleared up for our travels. We arrived back at the park just in time for a few afternoon raindrops to hit us. Good timing.

Life is good…and very interesting, y’all! The only thing constant is CHANGE.

No sunshine

2012-02-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

OK rain…enough already! I know we needed it, but still…all day yesterday was good. Today is overkill. We have a ‘new’ table outside and that is where we want to eat our dinner. Bugger. Four inside at our small table is just a tad cozy, but we managed.

We taught Dave and Dorota how to play Aggravation (marbles) last night. Boys: 2 – Girls: 0 There will be a rematch!

So not much going on here in paradise, except laundy, cleaning (slightly) and paperwork. Bleh. And waiting on the sunshine…that is making a small attempt to arrive! Come on…almost……….…I think the sun will play peek-a-boo all day.

And we shall enjoy it.

Life is good, y’all!

What's for breakfast?

2012-02-06T09:27:00.000-05:00

Barbara, Bill, Dorota, and Dave...enjoying a feast at John G's. Why not?! WYWH, y'all. It's all good!

Thought for the day…

2012-02-05T05:53:00.000-05:00

It’s not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.

Please share a hug with someone special today.

It’s all about Amy!

2012-02-04T08:46:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday, baby girl! She’s a busy wife, mother, sister, teacher, friend…funny and loving. You wear many hats, and wear them well, and certainly make life interesting for all of us. Srsly. I’m not saying that just so you’ll fix me dinner. Did I mention that she is a great cook?

Dad and I love you bunches ‘n bunches, honey girl! Enjoy your birthday season!!!

Sad day in paradise

2012-02-03T09:00:00.001-05:00

No flowers for Sarge today as he is laid to rest with full military honors that are very much deserved. Instead, I offer this patriotic heart for this true patriot.

There will be plenty of tears as we all say goodbye. And hugs for Miss Bee and their family.

It is a sad day, but we will all try to smile, just for you.

RIP, Sarge. We will miss you, our sweet friend.

River run and other stuff

2012-02-02T06:58:00.000-05:00

Trust me, this guy is NOT made of concrete! He was a real, live gator…about 10’ long. Dick and I were lead canoe when I spotted him sunning himself by the bank of the river. By the time the fourth canoe came around, he decided that was enough paparazzi and he was going to check US out and flipped over into the water. We decided this was HIS turf…and he could have it! We paddled on and gave him his space.

We saw 3 other smaller gators during the course of our four-hour trip, plus other assorted creatures: great white heron, baby blue heron, a raccoon, several squirrels, pileated woodpeckers, ibis, butterflies…many turtles…NO bears (thank goodness) nor deer. The last canoe occupants even spotted a great horned owl. And the rest of us heard owl hooting later on downstream.

It was a fun trip, with a lunch stop about mid-way through.

Tom, Dixie and Mary Ann went on back home, so that the rest of us could head to Orlando to Scott and Holly’s house for a great dinner and visit with them. We’ve got to get wee Molly and Mason up to visit with their Mayberry cousins!

It was a tiring day, so everyone was happy to get back home to warm showers. I know that I will be sporting sore muscles today!

Dick and I say goodbye to Bob and Lynne this morning and then head on back to WPB. We have stuff to do there, and people to see. It is time to close up, head out, drive south a bit………park, set up again.

That’s what the Travelingbells do.

And why not?

Paddle…or float?

2012-02-01T07:52:00.000-05:00

Embark on a canoe or kayak adventure, just minutes from the Orlando area, where you can explore the heart of the breathtaking Wekiva River, one of Florida's only Federally and State designated wild and scenic Rivers. Wekiwa Springs State Park Nature Adventures offers several trips which will assist you in fulfilling your fantasy River Adventure.

So this is what our group is doing today…paddling down the river…….floating down the river……………up the river? No, not up the river!

Hat. Check.

Sunscreen. Check.

Water. Check.

Food. Check.

Ready, set……….we’re off!

Later, gator. Oops, hopefully no gators! Just beautiful sunshine and scenery, thankyouverymuch.

What’s for dinner?

2012-01-31T09:08:00.001-05:00

Picadillo - (pronounced "pee-kah-dee-yo")

This is what Cubans do with ground beef instead of making hamburgers. There are many different versions of it, but this one is most authentic, so I hear:

2 Tbsp cooking oil
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 large onion, chopped coarsely
S & P to taste
½ tsp MSG (I leave this out)
1 lb lean beef, ground
1/3 c dry, white wine (and some for the cook)
2 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or one 15 oz. can chopped tomatoes)
½ c dark or light raisins, pumped up in hot water
1/3 c pimiento-stuffed olives, sliced in thirds
1 seeded green pepper chopped in half-inch squares (I leave this out)

In the oil, sauté the garlic and onion for five minutes, stirring frequently. Add the seasonings, the meat, the wine, and stir again. Add the tomatoes, raisins, olives and stir. Add green pepper and cook only long enough for it to get thoroughly hot; it should retain crispness and color.

One of Picadillo’s charms is that all the chopping and slicing can be done in advance, the cooking requiring only a few (10) minutes’ time. The Cubans serve this dish with plain white rice, either in a separate dish, or with the Picadillo on top of the rice and its juices trickling down. (Enough for 3-5 people)

Easy peasy and good, y’all!

Goodbye, Sarge

2012-01-30T08:24:00.001-05:00

I am trying to focus on happy times with our friend Sarge, and Blogger's Cruise 4 was just that--fun! And lots of smiles.

Happy sailing on heavenly seas. We will miss you very much, but shall meet again. Love to your gal, Miss Bee.

Thanks for your service to this great country. RIP, healed at last.

Sweet morning!

2012-01-29T10:18:00.001-05:00

What a way to begin our day...chocolate covered strawberries! Yum. Followed by egg casserole, hash browns, ham, and cheese blintzes. And lots of good fellowship.

The park has a tacky tourist contest this afternoon (no, we don't plan to enter), with food, music, and games. To iChat our group has its own steel drum entertainer during our private dinner.

Having fun, even the kitties. The squirrels are entertaining them daily. More great weather. WYWH!

Rally fun

2012-01-28T11:44:00.000-05:00

Great music by the Margarita Boys, good food, good friends! Another group dinner tonight. Weather is perfect. What's not to love? WYWH!

Friday at the rally

2012-01-27T07:46:00.000-05:00

This Great White Heron has visited us a few times, but yesterday morning I grabbed my phone to snap a photo, trying to figure out what was of interest to him. Or her. How do you tell the difference? Anyway, a jiffy quick moment later, our plant bed was one lizard less. Help yourself, sweetie. We have a good breakfast buffet!

So we had an enjoyable trip up to Kissimmee, stopping once at a picnic area so I could make some sammies for lunch. Our hosts had a nice turkey dinner catered in, then afterward a bingo game. Um, we don’t play bingo, but we stayed because we are good sports…and Dick won a game! It is a W/M gift card, he thinks for $50! Wowza…he may become a bingo fan. Hmm, mostly NOT.

After breakfast this morning we’ll have free time to wander around this busy area, then meet back for happy hour, dinner and entertainment tonight. Friend Dave, still snowbound in MT and merely READING the blog, we are missing you!!! WYWH!

What are you doing this weekend? We are having fun in another paradise, y’all!

Thursday stuff

2012-01-26T08:07:00.000-05:00

Pretty, huh? Those chairs are very comfy. Sweet! The side table has four tiles on it. And is short. We put the bistro table and 2 chairs on our lot next door, easily accessible to ‘borrow’ whenever we need it.

No time to use the new table, however, because we leave today! We two are taking the moho north to Kissimmee for an RV rally, but we won’t be gone for too long. Bob and Lynne plan to meet up with us on Monday for a few days with sister Carolyn and hubby Don. Love being with family. And friends.

Dick and I have our moho duties down to a good routine on who does what to get us ready to roll, so that is what we are doing this beautiful morning. And then re-doing this afternoon in a new location to settle back in. Two turtles in one shell. That’s us. With two kitties.

Happy birthday, Jennie! Wish we could celebrate with you.

Have yourself a smiley day, y’all! On the road again…

Wednesday work

2012-01-25T11:02:00.000-05:00

I have been wanting a nice table/chair set where we can eat dinner, play games, etc. (notice the singular “I"). Dick thinks our wooden picnic table with the attached benches is fine. I don’t. It isn’t comfortable for any lengthy sitting. Period.

So Dick relented and went shopping with me, and then did one better—found just what we wanted already gently loved by someone else. In the bargain, we also got a matching bistro (high top) table and 2 chairs, AND a matching side table.

3 tables; 8 chairs…all for cheaper than the new price for 1 table and 6 chairs at the local store.

Did I mention bargain? We love to save (cruise) money!

Today was already cleaning and laundry day, so now there is more to clean, but I’ll be smiling! Mama’s happy.

Hope you have a wonderful Wednesday, y’all! And while you are at it, please say some prayers and send some bloggy love for our good friends Bee and Sarge. They sure need them.

Thank you very much.

Rain, rain!

2012-01-24T09:48:00.000-05:00

We were thankful for both our awning and the patio umbrella as the six of us sat down to dinner last night...a light rain began falling...and it is still coming down this morning. We need it, but not two weeks of that stuff like what has been happening back in Mayberry! No.Thank.You. Amy/Jason’s backyard is slowing resembling a lake! They are, at least, grateful that they are not dealing with forest fires. Everything in perspective.

It’s there; we have to go. It is John G’s time!, but it will be for lunch today. The four Bells will meet up with a sweet couple, Fran and Neal. Dick and Bob’s parents were godparents to a few of their children, so these two knew our big boys way back when they were wee boys. It will be good to connect with them again. Getting to see old friends is just another perk of coming back to this area each year.

So that will probably be the highlight of this overcast day. And that is perfectly OK. Kicking back with a good book seems like a mighty fine plan for later on. But we may first have to shop for a patio table and chair set after lunch. We stay flexible in our planning. Or NON-planning.

That’s life in paradise on a damp Tuesday, y’all!

Sunday quarterbacks

2012-01-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Pretty intense, huh? Our New England relations were doing their best to get the Pats on to victory yesterday! And it worked. It got scary during those last few minutes, but these folks were happy campers by the end of the game.

Then we had to skedaddle down the road (Ivana, that means hurry!) to meet us with these friends:

Sweet Jose and Sarah. Jose worked for Dick and Bob for a very long time. Great people…Jose normally has his eyes open. I don’t like those flashes either.

Son Joe normally joins us but was too tired after working yesterday. Dahlia and Rosie (their “baby”) graced us with their beauty…and good company. And brought along a photo album of Jose and Sarah’s 50th wedding celebration. Thanks for a special evening!

Love these folks. They are special to our whole family. I know the kids will enjoy seeing these photos.

So today it is back to regular life: laundry, drop off glasses for new lens for MM…and no telling what else we shall find to do on this beautiful day here in paradise.

Nothing but sunshine and smiles, y’all!

Sunday smiles

2012-01-22T05:57:00.000-05:00

This sounds like a fine plan to me, friends!

Who is joining me???

I’ll furnish the name tags…if I can hold on to this thought!

Saturday in paradise

2012-01-21T10:54:00.000-05:00

Words with Friends – 3 games going: Lynne, Carrie, and Brian

Putting away clean, mostly air-dried laundry washed yesterday

Getting KC hugs and kisses

Being ignored by Missy

MM working on Bob/Lynne’s TV cable problem

Listening to Paula and watching (!) Jamie cooking flank steak (Joy and I saw Jamie in Savannah a few years ago—he is easy on the eyes.)

Wondering what to fix for our supper

So, it is sunny and beautiful, but I will still stay inside awhile and try to create another online scrapbook layout. If the internet cooperates!

Life is good here in paradise, y’all!

Kiss my frog! Ribbit

2012-01-20T09:29:00.000-05:00

The Frog Leg Festival...How it all began:

In 1990, several members of the City of Fellsmere were very concerned about the fact that there was no funding source available for the recreational needs of the children in Fellsmere. The Frog Leg Festival was a result of that concern and the brain child Fran Adams. She and local residents guessed frog leg dinners might be unique to entice folks to the city. Not realizing the draw of this event, some committee members helped set up the event and then went to the movies. Several Hours and 400 dinners later the frog legs were sold out! Growing pains were there!

Dick and Bob got the combo plate: frog legs, gator tail, coleslaw, fritters and grits. Lynne and I had the same thing, minus the gator tail (too much food for us). Of course we did try some of their gator (which was better than the frog legs…that needed some spices added—too plain!).

There were crafts, rides, and the normal games to entice folks to spend their money. My fave spot was this one, with all the bling. I wonder why? His prices were awesome.

But this was the fella that caught my eye. I know two wee boys who would have been fascinated to see him!

One guy was walking around with a hat on his head that had a funky looking chicken on top of it! It was so dark that my photos didn’t do the man nor the chickie justice, so there are none to post. Bugger.

Would we go there again? No, not unless we were already in the area. It wasn’t an event that warranted the 3 hour drive (up and back), but what the heck. It was Thursday. We didn’t have a thing on our dance card, and so we went. Plus, we always love doing our part to support children’s events.

It was another adventure. Go out and make one for yourself today.

Happy birthday, sweet Haley A! Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Florida stuff

2012-01-19T06:37:00.000-05:00

The whole old building at Lake Worth beach has been torn down, and this is the new one, obviously still under construction. I have no idea what businesses will be back in there. John G’s has no plans to go back. It used to be right there on the end. Out with the old…who knows about the new?! At least we have lots of good memories of this area…and will create even more memories at the restaurant’s new location. Come on down!

Our girly shopping was moderately successful. No new dress (for either of us), but Lynne and I both found a few household items…….and had a good time.

After dinner on the patio, we played marbles…at last! It’s been way too long since Dick and I have played. The guys beat us twice, but just barely. We WILL have a rematch!

So today we four are off to a nearby town to see some frogs……or eat some frogs…….or something. Anyway, stay tuned. Bob heard it is a fun festival, so we’ll go check it out. I think there will be music and crafts. Count me in!

Later, gator…um…froggie!

Guess where?

2012-01-18T10:24:00.001-05:00

Yep, four Bells (and Max and Kathy) at John G’s on the Beach…….that is now OFF the beach!

Cinnamon-nut French toast is to die for…seriously. And their fresh fruit cup. Love it, love it! This place has been doing a booming business now for almost 40 years. We shall take Joy and Cathy J there next month when they come down here. Alert to Empress Bee and Sarge for February 17!

So Dick is heading out for an eye exam, Bob is piddling around at their moho………..and Lynne and I are going shopping for a wedding dress. This time she is a wedding guest, not mother-of-the-groom like the last time when we went wedding dress shopping (successfully). Jennie P, too bad you aren’t back down here to join us this time. We need your dress shopping mojo!

It’s a beautiful day here in paradise, y’all! Life is very good…

Tuesday in paradise

2012-01-17T08:23:00.000-05:00

The palms aren’t swaying this morning and the sun is shining. Love it, love it………but don’t love waking up too early as I did this morning. Bugger.

So Dick is all better with that sinus drainage thingy and the good news is that he didn’t share with me. I am still trying to get used to my short ‘do’ (emphasis on short) and have a “palm tree” or two of my own that I am trying to tame. Curly/wavey hair is not always a plus, let me tell you. As Macey says, it is just hair and will grow out! And so it will.

Bob and Lynne arrive today (he is MM’s brother) in their ‘new’ moho. We are definitely looking forward to their visit. They are happy to be out of NH for awhile, well, except for leaving their own kiddos behind. And so we shall all go see sister Carolyn in Orlando…soon! We love having our condo on wheels.

That’s life in paradise, y’all!

Windy Monday

2012-01-16T09:42:00.001-05:00

We got good news this morning...the spot on MM's noggin is fine. We like that. Not that we were worried, but it is good to have the confirmation.

He is feeling back to normal and is already gone to help a friend with a fridge problem. He needs to go to the park office and work on our Internet problem. We are on the outer range of the multiple towers, so our signal is frequently weak, plus we seem to keep getting transferred from one tower to the other. I so miss our DSL.

We are very saddened by the cruise disaster in Italy. We were on a beautiful sister ship on almost this exact route in October. There is much speculation on the cause of the grounding, but that is all that it is at the moment--speculation.

Cruising is still very safe, but this has made me aware of some things to do differently on future cruises. Number 1 is to always have ID on my person. I normally leave my cabin with only my key card, chap stick, and a book. That key card may not be good for much in the event of total electrical failure. The passports in the cabin won't do us any good if we can't get to them. I will at least have paper copies in a plastic bag with me...and a flashlight. MM always has his wallet with him, so he at least could be identified. And he would be in the thick of trying to get other folks to safety. And so would I.

So it is helpful to be a bit prepared...but not scared. Yes, we will cruise again without fear, but with a little more awareness.

Count your blessings. Happy Monday. Life is good, y'all!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Sunday thoughts…

2012-01-15T09:30:00.001-05:00

Never make someone a priority if they only consider you an option.

Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.

The heaviest thing you can carry is a grudge.

One thing you can give and still keep...is your word.

Your mind is like a parachute...it functions only when open.

And a final one:

God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

Have a great Sunday, y’all!

Lazy, cool Saturday

2012-01-14T12:14:00.001-05:00

Well, the Internet is what is lazy to non-existent! I know it is free, but still. I couldn't even launch a photo-less blog for today. I am not a happy camper...my post for today won't launch. Bugger.

Dick and kitties are beached on the couch, enjoying the new TV. I now won't be able to finish the online scrapbook layout that took forever to get uploaded yesterday. Bugger. Tomorrow is another day.

So pulled pork is in the crockpot. Johnnie and Susan are coming over for dinner, but methinks we will be eating inside, rather than on the patio. It is dang chilly today, but that is definitely not a complaint...merely an observation.

Maybe there will be a game or two of marbles. It's been way too long since we've played. WYWH!

Life is slow, but good, y'all! And I am grateful for alternate electronics, yes sirree.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Sweet stuff

2012-01-13T07:16:00.001-05:00

Check out this proud smile...our boy was SOOO happy that he totally dressed himself for school! Amy had him pull up his pants to show off the orange socks. Gotta love the independent spirit...and hide those stained pants!

This same guy called me last night and announced "it's snowing!". I am happy to miss that. But I do miss my sweet kiddos.

I couldn't stand my bushy hair any longer, so I called JJ yesterday morning and she got me in for a cut, just ahead of Miss Bee so that we could visit! It was great chatting and hugging and catching up on everything and everybody. We will have a beadfest...one day soon.

So we had about 30 at dinner last night. Awesome crowd, and good food.

Tonight is beer and wings night, but with only the small Friday group, after a scrap booking day.

Friends, food, fun...now that is a perfect recipe!

MM honking his nose and kitties running a marathon so early this morning...not such a good recipe, but that's life here in paradise, y'all! Smile!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Snip, zap

2012-01-12T09:59:00.001-05:00

So Maytag Man is sporting a small spot bandage on his bald head. The doc decided to take a wee snip to send off to the lab, but he doesn’t think it will be anything. MM got zapped with the freeze stuff in several places on the backs of his hands and arms, but he’ll be OK.

My single arm spot zap was nothing, compared to taking one on the edge of my upper lip. Ouch! Probably by tomorrow I will look like I have one of those ugly cold sores on it. Lovely fashion statement, but good health comes first. We are good to go for another whole year. Check. And we liked the new doc. He had a good sense of humor.

So today we are back to warm and sunny. Love it, especially after yesterday’s gloom.

Maryan was very pleased with all her nice birthday greetings, and sends THANKS to everyone!

Enjoy your Thursday. We are having dinner with Dick’s high school group tonight. FUN!!!

No sun day

2012-01-11T09:22:00.000-05:00

It is overcast and gloomy, with rain on the way this afternoon. Bugger, well not to the rain part. But that’s OK. We don’t have any wonderful outdoor plans anyway.

We will both go see the doc this afternoon. It’s time for an annual skin check up that is long over due for both of us, since we didn’t go last year. We each have a couple of spots that need attention, but it should be no big deal. Just routine. Routine is good.

And wear sunscreen every day! That’s your handy dandy tip for today.

Go out and enjoy yourself and share a little happiness wherever you are.

A very Happy Birthday to my friend Maryan, who reads the blog every single day, bless her heart! Dick and I love you bunches, sweet lady!!!

Before/after

2012-01-09T22:03:00.001-05:00

Brown showed up...and this is what the vacant spot looked like yesterday morning:

We huffed, we puffed, we sweated...and I did hear a swear word or two...but finally:

Success, although this photo doesn't do it justice. The TV picture is good, but this was taken last night with the light not so good......and the temp in that area went from 108 down to 84! Huge difference! And this morning, it is only 70 degrees after being on for awhile.

UPDATE: Barb asked about the temp difference--the old TV monitor was a heat monster. Hot, hot, hot. We would sometimes turn off the monitor and just LISTEN to whatever was on, since the speakers were controlled through a different box there on the L. That way, we didn't generate heat, especially on a hawt day. This spiffy new TV is an LED one, so it doesn't generate all that heat, nor use up as much electricity, which is also a plus, since we pay for our electricity here in this park. And we try to be good stewards anyway. So now you know.

Of course there is now the learning curve of a new remote...and the necessity to learn a new way to go from local cable to satellite TV. Sigh. I am remote challenged. I admit it. Have patience, MM! Or I will hide the remote!

Have a terrific Tuesday. I will, just as soon as the vacuuming is done!

That's life in paradise...for today!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Monday misteaks

2012-01-09T08:32:00.001-05:00

Amy got MM’s spelling genes, so she saw this and thought he would get a kick out of this poster. Bless his heart, he is gifted with lots of other good qualities, as is Amy. Good one! Does this come in blue?

Today is already full of blue skies and balmy temps here in WPB. Our favorite color today will, however, be BROWN…that is, if BROWN delivers our new TV. MM is ready for it! I hope his assistant is also ready (me!). Lift, fetch…

Hopefully there won’t be any misteaks of any significance today.

Happy Monday, y’all!

Lazy Sunday

2012-01-08T15:59:00.000-05:00

Only one of us went to church this morning. Any guesses which one? You would be right. MM was a “heathern” this morning, and only redeemed himself a bit by removing the trim around the TV in preparation for the arrival of the new one…hopefully tomorrow.

I stopped and shopped at Tuesday Morning on my way home from church, and found a few items. I love that store—you never know what you’ll find there.

MM has been beached on the couch reading a book all afternoon. Our two babies have been sleeping after playing hard, while I have been working on photos and playing Word with Friends with Brian.

Venison is marinating in the fridge, and MM will at least get off the couch and grill it later on.

That’s our lazy, almost over, Sunday in paradise, y’all!

I read that retirement has 6 Saturdays and 1 Sunday. I like that a lot!

Traffic jam

2012-01-07T10:42:00.000-05:00

This is how laid back our life is here in the park. This is a no-worry, no-traffic zone. Love it!

KC has been chasing around a pink plastic Easter egg half for the last 20 minutes or so. He bats it; he chases it; he picks it up in his teeth and totes it around, drops it and begins the process all over again. Missy is sleeping in my chair. Been there, done that, she says.

Dick has been following the path of our new TV as it makes its way down south. It was in Nashville yesterday, Orlando early this morning. I suppose it will find WPB on Monday. Did I mention not only did we save sales tax, but it was free shipping? Love it…and don’t mind the wait.

What shall we do today, now that it is warming up? Hmm…corn hole? Marbles? Come on over and play!

Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Keeping watch

2012-01-06T06:08:00.000-05:00

Missy and KC are perhaps watching for the Three Wise Men? After all, today is Epiphany…hmm, I think they are just hopeful to see some critters. These two are co-habiting quite well in our small quarters.

Yesterday never warmed up enough to go outside and play, dang it. We did get some errands and piddly stuff done. Just normal life around here, but in a different setting.

I need a cup of motivation today to get back to working on photos, getting them labeled, touched up, and organized so that I can do some online scrapbooking! Project Friday…without my wee helpers…….maybe?

What do you hope to accomplish today? Whatever you do, do it with a smile, y’all!

Successful shopping!

2012-01-05T05:36:00.000-05:00

But first, here is a reminder of what we are missing in nawth Georgia! Brr…

At the second big store yesterday, Dick found what he thought would be just the right size TV for our space. Of course he had to come back and double check out this and that on how he would get it installed, making sure it would fit, and that all the connections would be in the proper place and stuff…….then check online to see if he could find a better price anywhere.

Score! And……the other good news is that it will be delivered right to our door in a few days; no need to go back to town and wait in line. Easy peasy.

Another added benefit of the new TV is that it is LED and will be a much cooler unit than what we now have. Of course on a chilly day, we don’t mind the extra heat!

So today should be nice…and I’m thinking it is time to drag out our corn hole game and give it a go.

Who wants to join us?

Wednesday stuff

2012-01-04T11:51:00.000-05:00

Let’s see now, 14 back in Mayberry this morning, and 38 here. Yep, we’ll stay HERE! At least it is sunny and will warm up and the wind has slowed way down. That wind was a bugger all day yesterday.

So it looks like we have to buy a new TV. The one in the living area is actually just a monitor that has a receiver to change all the channels and stuff, and the receiver is what is dead and can’t really be replaced. It is old anyway and TV technology has changed a lot since it was made, but still. Of course the major problem is that the TV that is in here is built in, and finding just the right size to go back into that slot…yep, major hassle.

A shopping we go, with a handy dandy tape measure. Wish us luck!

Howling winds!

2012-01-03T08:06:00.000-05:00

Boy howdy do we have wind blowing today! Even the critters don’t want to fight the high winds, and I don’t blame them. This is no day to fly anywhere. We will bundle up a bit…48 now and only 52 expected for the high. Brr…the winds will make it feel much, much colder, but at least there is none of that white stuff around here. It is not allowed!

It is a great day to enjoy fisherman’s stew for lunch with friends Judie and Neal back up at Schooner’s. Yes indeed-y. And a crockpot of venison stew cooking all day will be mighty good for our dinner on this chilly night. Those one pot meals are easy…and filling. The cook likes that! As I was chopping up onions for last night’s sauteed mushrooms and onions, I went ahead and chopped up enough for this next meal. Easy peasy…and one clean up.

So what are YOU having for dinner tonight? Stay warm, y’all!

Monday stuff

2012-01-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

This photo shows our short guy was indeed at dinner, all gussied with us on the Dream…although you can’t see how cute he looked.

But this story isn’t about this sweetie. It is about daddy Jason. Oh my, his year thus far has been not very good. Well, it is good because he is OK. But still…

Saturday night he had a major, I mean MAJOR bellyache that landed him in the ER, followed by the removal of his appendix yesterday! He had to wait for the surgeon to go teach his Sunday School class before the surgery could begin. Only in Mayberry!

Amy got to take him home last night to sleep in their own bed. You know how hard it is to sleep in the hospital! Hot off the press—he had a good night last night and is up and walking around this morning. Praise God! Another blessing we count. He has to take it easy for a few weeks. Yeah, right!

So it is another beautiful, warm day here in paradise, but a cold front is heading our way tomorrow, with the high only getting up to 55. I know you feel our pain!

Barb, I posted the cranberry salsa recipe here, since it was pronounced a “keeper.” And it wasn’t too spicey, even for me.

I hope your New Year is going great. Ours sure is, out reading on the patio. Life is good, y’all!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T08:37:00.000-05:00

In the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, never in want.
Irish Toast

Life is an adventure. Enjoy it to the fullest. Thanks for being a part of my friendship circle.

Blessings to each of you. Happy New Year, y’all!

All gussied up on the Dream

2011-12-31T04:03:00.000-05:00

Logan, Haley, Ansley and Macey:

Brian, Faith, and Haley A…

Jason, Amy and Alex…wee Will got left out of the photo

We sure love these kiddos. We are all mighty blessed!

Goodbye 2011. We created lots of good memories this year…and plan to create even more in 2012!

Hugs to all our family and friends everywhere!!!

Life is an echo; what you send out comes back - Chinese Proverb

Cruise fun

2011-12-30T05:10:00.000-05:00

Margarita from Bulgaria was our head waitress on the cruise, and she was a hoot. She entertained us each night with toothpick tricks…presenting an arrangement, then telling us to come up with a specific solution by rearranging one or two toothpicks. Very thought provoking, and our table got at least three or four correct answers!

Logan ordered pork chops one night, and this is what she first presented him with:

And an order for chicken soup was instead……………………..this rubber chicken!

We certainly all had a great time. I tried to include some elegant night photos, but will have to post in shorter batches. Our wi-fi here is mighty slow right now. Bugger.

So yesterday we met Johnnie, Susan (local long-time friends), and Bill and Vickie (also long-time friends, but they are from NJ) for the first time at the new John G’s on the Beach… that is no longer on the beach…but the food is still awesome and the ambiance still the same. Vickie is cooking Saturday night for us. Pasta…and she is a great cook. Oh boy, oh boy! None of us are big NYE celebrators, so that will be our big night, topped off by a walk on the beach…and probably back at the moho long before midnight. Maybe I’ll remember to take some photos Saturday night. Sheesh. I flunked photos yesterday….maybe because we were too busy talking and eating. Ya think?!

That’s it from paradise, y’all!

No longer on the beach, but still a line! WYWH!!!

2011-12-29T08:56:00.000-05:00

Beta sisters and other stuff

2011-12-28T07:39:00.000-05:00

Beta sister Carrie and hubby Laton are full-time RVers who have been in the W Palm Beach area since August. Lucky for us, we got meet them (for the first time!) at lunch today at fabulous Schooner’s for good food and lots of laughter. Too bad they are leaving this weekend, heading to Virginia. Safe travels! We’ll see y’all down the road again.

Our wee girls wanted to have a ‘salon day’ last week on the cruise. Here is Amy relaxing and waiting for her turn to get beautifed.

Macey painted my nails, then Haley A was working on my hair…

Ansley and Faith were waiting their turns. Somehow or other I didn’t get a photo of Haley D or Macey. We were busy!

Thanks, girls, for all your hard work. Can we have another session soon??? And a massage?

FFFFFFF!

2011-12-27T04:50:00.000-05:00

Fabulously festive floating foreign Forced Family Fun (onboard the Carnival Dream)!

Here is the whole group, all 13 of us sporting our FFF shirts:

What started out as merely FFF (Forced Family Fun) in 1989 with GROANS from our kids because they did NOT want to go on a long camping trip with us, has progressed to adding many more Fs to the scenario over the years (although some of them were perhaps an unmentionable “F” or two during the teenager years). Now that the kids are all adults, they seem to finally appreciate the trips just a tad more.

Everyone enjoyed the fabulous cruise (how could they not?!)…especially the short folks. They enjoyed the pool, water slides, Camp Carnival, 24/7 ice cream machine, etc.

Carnival is definitely the Fun Ship! Just check out these smiles. But vacations must end…and so it has. Everyone is back in their respective homes, enjoying all the good memories we created last week.

And the door decoration grinch? Who knows. Our door first began losing a few letters…the “H” was the first to go; then it returned…and left again, along with its matching letter. Next went the snowflakes.

Then everything got gone except for the belt buckle, which got ripped apart and rearranged.

Poor door. At least the door grinch had a sense of humor.

The end.

So what is your favorite memory of Christmas 2011?

Snowing on the Carnival Dream!

2011-12-26T04:00:00.000-05:00

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!!!

Our kiddos sure enjoyed Santa......as well as the fake snow. It was truly a magical night...and cruise. Where else could we find snow in the Caribbean in December, but on the Carnival Dream!

Put some smiles on your faces today, my friends.

Life is good!

Christmas Day

2011-12-25T03:44:00.000-05:00

Joyeux Noël
Glædelig jul
Frohe Weihnachten
Buon Natale
¡Feliz Navidad

From our hearts to yours…wherever on this good earth that you live…may you know the joys and blessings of this day.

Merry Christmas!

The Traveling Bells

Goodbye Dream!

2011-12-24T09:19:00.000-05:00

Goodbye, towel buddies. Goodbye, room steward. It is back to reality, doing my own laundry and cooking. Bugger. It was fun. Photos will follow. Heading to the kitties and the Moho

In the meantime, have a blessed Merry Christmas, y'all!

And the winners are…

2011-12-22T12:33:00.000-05:00

Yes! Dick and I are the corn hole champions today, and we each got our very own, FIRST genuine gold plastic ships on a stick this morning! Woohoo for us!!! This is a proud moment in history, ppl.

So it is sunny and 77 outside, smooth sailing on this sea day after a bumpy ride last night. It didn’t bother us at all, as a matter of fact, we slept quite well.

The ship is all decorated for both the Christian and Jewish holidays, and we like that. Someone is liking our gel stick-on door decorations a little too well, b/c they have been rearranged, removed, and returned all week…but now my HO HO HO and snowflakes are GONE. Bugger. I didn’t mind it up until now, but GONE is ticking me off. All that is left is Santa’s red and black buckle, that somebody actually broke! I hope the thief gets coal in his/her stocking!

Food has been pretty good…enjoying the chilled soups, of course…and the chocolate melting cake. Our waitress brought me a piece of tiramisu with a candle in it last night. She has been entertaining us with toothpick tricks each night. More on that when we get back home.

So tomorrow is our final sea day and the rumor is that Santa will be onboard. I sure hope so. I’ve been good. Well, mostly good. Well, today has been a good day thus far. Does that count?

That’s it from the Dream. WYWH!

Leaving St. Maarten

2011-12-21T17:44:00.000-05:00

Greetings as we leave St. Maarten. Apparently bad weather is coming, so the CD announced early this morning that we would be departing early...and that a lot of the shore excursions would be cancelled. I am sure there were a lot of complaints registered, but it didn’t affect us at all.

We got off the boat and walked around the shopping area near the pier, enjoying the scenery, then returned to the ship for lunch...corn hole, and reading on the balcony.

What a perfect way to spend my birthday!

Thursday and Friday are sea days. Love them! Life is good, y’all. WYWH!

Christmas greetings from St. Thomas

2011-12-20T10:43:00.000-05:00

With a slight rain, but who cares mon? Not us!
Life is good, y'all!

Paradise

2011-12-18T10:58:00.000-05:00

Leaving port yesterday. Sunny and beautiful in Nassau today. Monday is a sea day. Food is good. WYWH!

Carnival Dream–Day 1

2011-12-17T06:32:00.000-05:00

This is the beauty we’ll be boarding today in Pt. Canaveral for a week of fun, fun, FUN! She was parked in Nassau the last time we were there, so I got a quick photo to save for a future post, long before we even booked this cruise. How’s that for planning ahead?!

We are heading to Nassau (oh well), St. Thomas and St. Maarten on a Forced Family Fun trip. And yes, I will pass the pedi inspection today!

There may be rain in the forecast, but we don’t care. Any day on a ship is a good day (now that hurricane season is over).

I will blog when I can, so come along and join us!

Life is good on the high seas, y’all!

Cruise, minus 1

2011-12-16T10:50:00.000-05:00

So this is what we looked liked yesterday. Ladder out so the windshield could be washed before putting up the sun shade. Slide out not out yet so that Dick wouldn’t bump his head on it while getting stuff in/out of the basement. Gotta protect that bald head.

He picked up the pressure washer this morning and is out cleaning the pads. I’m doing laundry and getting all the file folders in place…it’s feeling like home sweet home, on a smaller scale!

The kitty sitter just came by to meet our furbabies, so that is checked off my list.

Passports are in my purse. Check.

Luggage tags printed. Check.

Almost ready. Gotta go get a pedi. Tomorrow’s the big day! Carnival Dream, here we come!!! Tag along with us. It’ll be a fun week.

Life is sunny and warm here in paradise, y’all!

Rolling, rolling…

2011-12-15T09:42:00.000-05:00

I did manage to do a little beading before packing up all my supplies. These are green quartz balls, potato pearls (that don’t show up well), and Swarovski crystals.

Today will be mile after many mile, but I’ll be keeping my driver hydrated and alert, while doing a little surfing on my phone. Nice arrangement.

Hello, Sunshine State! You’re looking mighty warm.

Life is good on the road!

On the road again…

2011-12-14T09:10:00.000-05:00

Y’all know what this photo means! We are loading and leaving…later today, south bound to warm weather. We’ve got to get set up and get a few things done on our site, introduce our new kitty sitter to our furbabies, and get stuff done.

The cruise that was so far in the future is almost upon us…Dick is packed, but I haven’t finished with that yet, but it won’t take long. That is happening BEFORE lunch today or I’ll make myself sit in time out (hey, that doesn’t sound like such a bad idea!)

I’ll sneak in a howdy to my blog buddies in between doing laundry and all that other stuff.

Have yourself a great hump day. Leaving one paradise for another. Life is good, y’all! Zoom, zoom…

Incredible photo

2011-12-13T03:22:00.000-05:00

The gentleman who drew this is Joe Castillo. He went to Asbury Theological Seminary, and did this during a chapel service. It was fascinating - he told the Gospel story - each part of Jesus' life – and he was drawing the story as he told the story.

The class didn't realize until the end what the entire picture was. A rare talent!!!

The 'longer' you look at this picture, the 'more' you see. Biggify, and check it out.

Look at the lines the artist used to draw this picture of Christ. It is of scenes from Christ's life.

In the Circle of God's love, God's waiting to use your full potential.

May God Bless You and Yours!

Hat tip: Dee Barronton

Sweet gals

2011-12-12T08:22:00.000-05:00

Our gals started out the day as yummy gingerbread house builders…

They progressed to cleaned up sweeties, and a newly confirmed big gal. It was a meaningful service at the beautiful cathedral in Atlanta, well, the short gal thought the service was LONG. Unfortunately it was late enough in the day that photos of the awesome stained glass windows are not totally awesome. Bugger.

So Monday is finish some projects, clean off my desk, and pack for the cruise day…with Tuesday being the finish-what-didn’t-get-finished day! Goals—iHas them.

Gotta go check my list!

Have a fabulous, non-boring Monday. Life is good but busy in paradise, y’all!

Quote of the day…

2011-12-11T08:19:00.000-05:00

I certainly feel RICH…and I know you do, too. We have blessings in abundance, despite the loud crying I am currently hearing from downstairs, coming from Alex; followed by an I’m sorry from Will.

My suspicion is that there is no blood involved; hold on………..…now confirmed. Apparently there was a chair and a head that connected, by accident, of course.

As I said, blessings in abundance, despite a few altercations every now and then. Life is never dull…who wants a dull life?!

It is a special day for our Ansley as the collective families gather for her confirmation at the cathedral in Atlanta this afternoon. This is quite a milestone for our young lady, who has been studying hard. I hear there will be a pasta celebration for dinner tonight. I vote for that!

But first…breakfast for the boys, followed by exchange of duty with the arrival of their other grandmother!

Life is good…and very blessed!

Saturday…brrr

2011-12-10T11:11:00.001-05:00

This is KC’s favorite spot on a cold winter night…the heated bathroom floor…when he is not in our bed, that is. Somehow even with the sun out, he and Missy know it is COLD outside and aren’t even hovering by the glass door, asking to go out. Yet. We have two wee boys today, so the kitties will want to escape…soon!

I have a few beading projects to finish up in between doing stuff and more stuff. Time is getting short, with that upcoming pesky cruise looming near. Who’s going with us? Saturday departure…for the cruise part.

Thank you, Jamie, for telling me how to zoom in for photos on my phone. Why didn’t I think of that myself? Quit laughing. I heard that. Linda asked about that young girl in the video and what she was doing. Well, she was taking STILL photos of someone…she stood in that spot almost the whole evening…and was totally annoying. Obviously moving my camera so that she was out of MY viewing area did not get her out of the view of the lens. Sigh. Lesson learned.

Stay warm. It’s chilly in paradise, y’all!

iCarol

2011-12-09T16:55:00.000-05:00

Check out this video on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlxi_baRWfo&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Sent from my iPhone

iCarols for iPad

2011-12-09T12:23:00.000-05:00

Ansley enjoyed playing more than her clarinet last night! Merry music...

Hallelujah Chorus, Alaska style

2011-12-08T03:22:00.000-05:00

This ought to put a smile on your face, and get your foot to tapping!

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=LyviyF-N23A

Stay warm. It’s cold and feeling like Christmas in paradise, y’all!

Remembrance and thanks

2011-12-07T07:55:00.000-05:00

Today being Pearl Harbor Day (1941) is a perfect time to give thanks for all those who have served our great country to gain and keep our precious freedom.

Our military are still scattered all over the world, leaving behind family to keep the home fires burning in their absence. They all need our support, whether it is a prayer, a card, a care package…or a simple thanks any time you see a service person. Any positive gesture would be appreciated.

Come to think of it, a thankful attitude toward everyone would make this world a much better place to reside. Share a smile today. They are free, so give generously.

God bless our troops!

St. Nicholas Day

2011-12-06T05:04:00.000-05:00

Strictly speaking, the tradition of St. Nicholas is not synonymous with the role of Santa Claus in the U.S.. As practiced in many European countries, the celebration of St. Nicholas is separate from the Christmas holidays, and occurs during the 2 weeks prior to December 6th, which is St. Nicholas's day. Sometimes St. Nicholas Day is the main holiday for gift giving, and not Christmas.

Did you know that? Now you do.

St. Nicholas was born in 271 AD and died around December 6, 342 or 343 AD, near the Asia Minor (Turkey) town of Myra, where he later became Bishop. He performed many good deeds and was a friend to the poor and helpless, and upon his death, myths soon sprang up about him all around the Mediterranean Sea. He was reputed to be able to calm the raging seas, rescue desperate sailors, help the poor and downtrodden, and save children. He was soon named as the patron saint of sailors, and when Myra was overthrown, his bones were transported by sailors to Bari, a port in Italy, where a tomb was built over the grave and became the center of honor for St. Nicholas. From here the legend spread on around to the Atlantic Coast of Europe and the North Sea to become a European holiday tradition regardless of religion.

Hopefully you have all been good and the jolly fat man will come visit you on the 25th. Maybe this year we should all want a little less…and give just a little more.

Now that would be a great Christmas attitude!

Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Peace…and love

2011-12-04T07:58:00.000-05:00

It does not mean to be in a place
where there is no noise, trouble,
or hard work. It means to be in
the midst of those things, and still
be calm in your heart.
~ unknown

Today I am wishing peace for my sister, who would have celebrated her 29th wedding anniversary on this date. Roger is healed, but his absence leaves a hole in many hearts, most especially hers.

I love you, Nan. May you find some peace in all your happy memories, children, and grandchildren.

Hug those you love. Life is too short for regrets, y’all!

Just trying to help…

2011-12-03T06:03:00.000-05:00

Hi Sweetheart,
I am sorry about getting into an argument about putting up the Christmas lights.
I guess that sometimes I feel like you are pushing me too hard when you want something.
I realize that I was wrong and I am apologizing for being such a hard-headed guy.
All I want is for you to be happy and be able to enjoy the holiday season.
Nothing brightens the Christmas spirit like Christmas lights!
I took the time to hang the lights for you today and now I will be off to the golf course.
Again, I am very sorry for the way I acted yesterday.
I'll be home later.
Love you……

~~I think this guy will get coal in his Christmas stocking!

Today is girls day out—our area BSP annual council luncheon is today, so the sistas are gathering at Lake Lanier Island to eat, exchange Christmas ornaments, and GAB. Lots of that! And some shopping for Joy, Joan and I afterward.

Y’all do something fun today. Later, gator…

Computer assistant

2011-12-02T06:23:00.000-05:00

NOT! It is difficult typing with one hand, as Brian knows only too well.

Cats always know when you don’t want them around, because that is just when they show up. And try to help. I do love this boy, even when he gets in the way of progress, bless his little heart.

I have discovered there is a drawback to using the iPad, which is on my desk to the left of KC. I now find that when I am using my laptop, I often tap the screen…and wonder why nothing happens…and laugh!

I entertain myself sooo well! I heard that snicker.

Have yourself a lovely Friday. Joy and I are off to a special Christmas concert tonight up (that means we are heading north) in NC.

Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Christmas isn’t just another holiday

2011-12-01T07:47:00.000-05:00

If you celebrate CHRISTmas, then you might want to watch this video and heed its advice:

http://youtu.be/TWrrvQ_3-40

Merry CHRISTmas, my friends!

What is tops on YOUR Christmas “want” list?

Goodbye, November!

2011-11-30T08:33:00.001-05:00

I wasn’t kidding about our local color being BROWN. Fortunately, there are evergreens scattered around to break up the brownish monotony of dying grass and bare tree limbs. Our lake disappears in the winter, turning instead to a small stream, leaving us with bare banks. It’s too cold to get in the water anyway, but still. Oh well…another reason to spend the winter in sunny south Florida, right?!

So the snow yesterday was a non-event, as we knew it would be. It was pretty as it fell…and even nicer that it disappeared and didn’t stay. November is too early for lingering snow, ppl!

I have the wee boys this afternoon, so the plan is to work on Christmas cards while they nap. Y’all know how plans go…and then enjoy a Christmas concert tonight with Joan and Joy. That will launch the Christmas Season in the right spirit.

Are you ready for December to arrive? Who has decked the halls?

Who, me?

2011-11-29T08:14:00.001-05:00

No, I haven’t seen Will’s lovey anywhere. Honest!

Lucky KC got to spend yester-rainy-day all curled up on the guest bed…guilty as charged…with Will’s lovey.

No snow here yet. It is creeping in from the west and probably will hit us around mid-day. I guess that means that I am required to run to the store this morning and buy milk and bread…whether we need it or not. NOT!

So today I have the turkey carcass, but no turkey left for turkey soup. Bugger. We’ll have to settle for turkey broth, with rice and veggies. Check. This is a soup kind of day.

Whatever you do, make sure you smile today! Wait…it is 8:10, and I see a few flakes falling. Hello, Winter…in the space of two minutes, we now have some serious snow coming down!

Oh my!!!

Cyber Monday

2011-11-28T05:22:00.000-05:00

Another shopping opportunity…for some folks. Me? Doubtful. It’s just another Monday closer to our cruise, so it is a great day.

Here are the little buggers who beat me at marbles Saturday. It’s all in the luck of the cards…or not… and they didn’t favor me one bit. I’m ready for a re-match tonight!

So yesterday I put a red bow on the grapevine wreath on our front door, put the Christmas flag on the small garden pole, and plugged in Frosty to shine out the front window. D for done. Instant decorations. Not even a small tree this year, since we won’t be home for Christmas. We shall, however, enjoy the Carnival Dream in all its Christmas finery. We are counting down the days, about to say goodbye to November. And the weather folks are saying North Georgia is gonna get snow in the morning! Yikes!!! Brrr…

Frosty will probably be a happy guy. Not me! And no, he can’t go out and play in it.

Stay warm, y’all!

Mayberry Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T07:38:00.001-05:00

The buffet line started on the L for plate pick up, then ended at the silverware/napkin corner. Everything was OH SO GOOD!

Everyone is invited (required!) to come back Monday night and finish off the leftovers!

This photo of the pumpkin mousse looks like creamy mustard, but was delish and much more appetizing in small containers with whipped cream on top. There was pumpkin cream cheese cake, chocolate pie, chocolate delight, and pecan pie. And no photos and certainly no calories.

Amy and Macey arrived wearing my colors, so Haley quickly snapped this photo. She and I are frequently the ones in matching colors, but somehow avoided it yesterday.

What is that white blob over Amy’s shoulder??? A little photo editing might help.

We played a few games of marbles after stuffing ourselves. I wound up playing with the three young gals. Ansley beat us, but the big gals cleaned up the kitchen, so I really came out the winner!

So today everything that is now clean will get put away. And Haley will, pretty please, send me some of the photos that she took. I’ll put away my fall decorations and at least get a Christmas wreath on the front door.

But more important, I was talking with my three girls last night about our door decorations…………for the ship! Woohoo, we are cruising in less than 3 weeks!!!

Life is good in paradise, y’all!

Grins, crafts, fun and food!

2011-11-26T06:31:00.000-05:00

I’m so happy Joy shares Roger with me. He has enough love for both of us, no doubt. Thanks to Gene for the photo.

Joan is checking out the bling at the Resort yesterday:

We resisted temptation. Just barely. We did enjoy seeing lots of crafty items:

And the weaver:

As well as the wood carver and all of his wares:

And then we met our own guys for lunch. It was a fabulous day.

So today is our family and friends turkey day. Also known as mob intimacy, since there will be close to 20 folks attending.

Dick will get the ham and turkey in the smoker this morning (ham drippings make a mighty tender and tasty bird!).

There will be appetizers during the game time, followed by dinner: ham/turkey, cornbread dressing, corn pudding, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, broccoli salad, fresh cranberry sauce, glazed carrots and parsnips, pears with blue cheese, rolls…what am I leaving out?

Oh yes…desserts! I think I’ll leave those descriptions until another day.

Who’s hungry? Come on over, y’all! Life is good in paradise.

Black Friday. Really?

2011-11-25T07:58:00.001-05:00

No leftover turkey, no store shopping…however there are plans for the day, of course. Joan and I are going to Brasstown Valley Resort to a major craft show. Really major. I should remember to take a photo or two, especially since I didn’t take a single photo last night. Bad blogger!

No photo of sweet Roger (Joy’s dad), no photo of Melissa in her tee that announced “Bun in the Oven.” No proof of Anna making gravy or Billy making biscuits or Joy getting all the delish food on the counter. Brother Gene was mighty busy with his camera, so maybe I can get one or two, pretty please!

So tomorrow is our big thankful day. This afternoon will find me in the kitchen chopping and prepping. I so love family/friend gatherings!

I’ll put my camera on the kitchen counter, ready to use. Maybe someone will see it and think to use it!

It is 28 in Mayberry this morning. I am dreaming of cruising!

Happy Thanksgiving, y’all!

2011-11-24T07:15:00.001-05:00

Wherever you are, whatever you do, stop and give thanks for all your blessings on this special day. We are all blessed beyond measure.

Dick and I are pleased to share today’s celebration with Joy, her family and friends. They are all part of our extended family.

Our Thanksgiving Day (it’s a movable feast!) will be celebrated on Saturday, when our family and friends gather here for food and games.

Come join us. The door is always open. Love and hugs to all across the miles!

Boomer turkey and other stuff

2011-11-23T08:31:00.001-05:00

So here is Brian playing with Missy, that hussy. She loves MEN, but I can’t blame her.

Note the absence of his cheese hand. Now he has a molded half-cast.

The underside is open. Velcro straps attach it around to the upper side. Simple. He has to un-do the upper ‘flap’ to use his R hand to move his L fingers for exercise. No voluntarily using his L hand yet. At all. He brings his boots over to have Amy or Jason tie them every morning. Poor baby. He has also learned that it is difficult to fold laundry with only one hand. Sweet Faith is helping in that department. He’ll survive. It’s not forever.

My iPhone didn’t take such a good photo, so B&W helped salvage it. Oh well…seize the moment as it happens with what is available.

So, lots to do to get ready for the Saturday feast. My list is started and I need to get busy.

But first…here is a true family funny:

Alex - I want a boomer turkey for Thanksgiving.
Amy - What is a boomer turkey?
Alex - You know, where you get a gun that goes boom and deads the turkey.

My turkey is deads and thawing in the fridge. Got yours?

Ugh…oh no!

2011-11-22T03:13:00.000-05:00

Some folks need to check the mirror before leaving their stateroom!

Seriously? This person thinks this hairdo is attractive? Oh my!

Different strokes.

Always be careful about a paper trail…

Enjoy the smiles.

Happy Tuesday, y’all!

Monday, Monday

2011-11-21T03:23:00.000-05:00

Amy had the two “mothers” over for dinner last night. Joyce recently had neck surgery, and thoughtful Amy put together this rag quilt for her to take with her to the hospital.

The quilt is made from 3 shirts that belonged to Jason’s dad, and one of Jason’s denim shirts, so it has lots of sentimental value. And is pretty dang cute.

Pam and Jennie (two sweet BSP sistas) helped get Amy started on the quilt while I was away, not that I would have been much help, seeing as how I have never made any kind of quilt. But still. Just shows you how important these “aunties” are to our kids, even when the kids are old enough to have kids of their own.

Speaking of kids, the grammies and Amy will be at school today having Thanksgiving lunch with the wee boys. Grandma: all the fun with none of the work!

So today is menu planning and grocery list making, getting ready for turkey day.

Every year I fix a glazed carrots and parsnip dish, and marinated Roma tomatoes. Yum. Both recipes can be found at www.dyerdining.blogspot.com.

What are some traditional Thanksgiving family dishes that you serve? Not counting the turkey and cranberry sauce!

Mighty hunters

2011-11-20T08:43:00.000-05:00

Dick and Dan are on their way home, loaded down with venison for the two freezers. And tired.

I see some freezer re-arranging in my immediate future. And laundry. Ya think?

Anyone have any good venison recipes to share with me? I may have to visit Mr. Google to find 101 ways to prepare venison, since we'll be eating it all winter long.

It's just another day in chilly paradise.

Mistletoe Market

2011-11-19T16:08:00.001-05:00

Joan, Joy and I thoroughly enjoyed looking at all the crafts. Lots of different stuff to tempt us, but we were good.

Lunch out, then a jewelry party at Haley's house.

Having fun in Mayberry!

Friday stuff

2011-11-18T07:53:00.001-05:00

I have just now downloaded 515 photos that I need to sort through, stitch, crop, label, and organize. Groan. Note to self: on a long trip, take the laptop! That is where my (Windows) photo program is located…and I could have been working on them in my spare time during the cruise. Lesson learned.

So the predicted cold front did just that…it is officially 25 here in Mayberry this morning, but a balmy 32 outside at our house. Brrr. Get ready, Barb, this is heading your way. I am definitely grateful for the sunshine…and already thinking about the upcoming cruise! Oh yes!!!

Today is Beta birthday lunch with my sistas. I always look forward to seeing them…guaranteed fun! And tomorrow there is a local Christmas market to attend.

Life is good in Mayberry, y’all! Anyone have good weekend plans???

Blue skies

2011-11-17T08:35:00.001-05:00

After three overcast rainy days, I am seeing a tad of blue skies this morning, but no fantail anywhere in sight. Bugger. No Lido, no chilled soups, no room service, no piano bar, no room steward. Reality has set in…it is doitmyself time!

So Brian is doing well, looks great and is managing one handed. He will go for a PT evaluation tomorrow. MM and I taught Brian, Faith, and Haley2 how to play marbles last night (after enjoying some awesome chili and cornbread). We need to find someone locally who can make these boards, because after playing, everybody wants one.

The sun is finally shining and I am having corn hole thoughts, but alas, the paperwork is still not done. Play or work? Play or work? I have to be an adult. Bugger.

That’s life in paradise, y’all!

Good news!

2011-11-16T09:57:00.001-05:00

Our cheesy boy is driving home! He doesn't have much pain, so OTC meds are working fine. He will stop at the outlet shopping center to buy some non-tie shoes. It is sure hard to tie a bow with one hand, he has already discovered. He will learn to adjust being one handed. After all, it is only temporary, and for that we are grateful. Very grateful.

So yesterday I finally got the suitcases emptied, clothes washed, and mostly put away. I had two wee boys all day and overnight, so I was a bit delayed but that's perfectly OK. I don't have any deadlines to make, other than finishing up mail piled here on my desk. That is today's rainy day project.

Another bit of good cruise news--I came home a pound lighter, and MM only gained 2! He literally had ice cream every day, AND frequent desserts after dinner. I was a good girl and didn't over indulge, but was still surprised at a weight loss. Sweet!

The chilled soups were D.I.V.I.N.E. I tried almost every one of them. Love, love them. The other day at lunch they listed a chilled apple curry soup. When I gave my order to the waiter, he told me that maybe I didn't want to order that, as it is the WORST soup on the whole ship! That really surprised me. I laughed and told him that I had eaten it before and that I really like it. Not that I would want it every day, but still. And it was good. They are offering lots of new combinations, so I tried as many as I could. A couple of times I asked to have my chilled soup as a dessert, rather than as a starter. Yum! Love it.

Happy Wednesday. Count your blessings, y'all, and say a wee prayer for safe travels for Brian! Thanks...

Mr. Cheese Hand

2011-11-15T08:26:00.001-05:00

Here is our cheesy boy, still under the wonderful blessing of nerve block. Pain is around the corner!

June is taking such good care of him…as Dick did with June back when he was a student at GA Tech, babysitting June in exchange for home cooked meals from her parents. What goes around, comes around!

Surgery started later, and lasted a bit longer than anticipated. The tendon is delicately stitched back together. No major nerves were severed, thankfully. He will be able to do physical therapy here in Mayberry…and promises to be a good patient and not un-do all that fancy stitchery—he doesn’t want to go back under the knife again………….either knife!

We count our blessings and give thanks for the medical team, Al, and especially June. You rock!

Thanks, everyone, for all the good thoughts and encouragement. Accidents happen when you least expect them to happen. And when you least want them! Brian won’t be scuba diving on our upcoming cruise, but he will eventually be able to use that pointer finger again.

That is what matters.

Great relief here. Life is good, y’all!

Home, sweet home...and pacing

2011-11-14T15:28:00.001-05:00

There is no place like home, despite the suitcases that need to be emptied, mail that needs attending to, marketing that needs to get done, etc. We are happy to be here.

Fall colors have basically left Mayberry all dull and brown, with leaves blowing everywhere, or still clinging with their last hope on the tree limbs. Time marches on, and Mother nature confirms that November is solidly in place. It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost upon us, but it sure is. I need to go turkey shopping!

So photos will have to wait a bit to get downloaded, as well as trip details, but they shall be forthcoming. Right now I am worrying our son through outpatient hand surgery in Charlotte, wishing I could be there. Feel free to help me worry and pray. I have faith in the medical team, of course, but I am his mama and he is still my child, especially when anything goes wrong. He was using his pocket knife last week to pry something open. It slipped and cut his palm, apparently severing a tendon to his L index finger. Hopefully it is easily fixable. He has to live with a cast for 6 weeks, small nuisance for having a usable finger for the rest of his life.

I'll let y'all know tomorrow how he is doing. Thanks to niece June for taking such good care of Brian.

That's it from paradise. I need to go pace the floor awhile.

Sitting and waiting

2011-11-13T08:41:00.000-05:00

Good morning from the Magic, docked in Galveston. We are waiting in the dining room for our luggage tag number to be called. No hurry, since our flight leaves at 4.

Home. Sounds good. The trip has been fun, but home is where our we want to be. For awhile, until the next big adventure.

Happy Sunday...and happy birthday, Joan!

Sent from my iPhone

Saturday at sea

2011-11-12T17:15:00.000-05:00

Final sea day...final corn hole games, but we bombed out.

We have our transfers to the airport, leaving somewhat early tomorrow, so I shall have plenty of time to read blogs while waiting for our afternoon flight Sunday. I have missed my buds! And my family. My shugah supply has run out:). Home sounds mighty fine.

Life is good as we chug into Galveston, y'all!

Sent from my iPad

Destination: Unknown!

2011-11-11T00:30:00.000-05:00

No, that is not us...that is the title of the new show time that Carnival introduced on board the Magic Wednesday night. It features Jason Byrne and the Carnival singers and dancers in a show featuring illusions, fireworks, and lots of high energy. The current cast will leave the Magic in Galveston, replaced by the new cast. Change is good, considering all the loyal Carnival repeat cruisers who appreciate new entertainment. Corn hole, speaking of entertainment, is the bean bag toss...two slanted wooden boards that have a hole in each, into which 4 bean bags are tossed. There is skill and scoring involved. It has been fun and friendly competition. MM and I are developing our tossing arms. Who's ready for a game?Today is a sea day, as is tomorrow as we head into the Gulf of Mexico toward Galveston. Home is sounding mighty good. We have missed everyone and look forward to being back in Mayberry...soon. What are your weekend plans?

Freeport, Day 2

2011-11-10T10:15:00.000-05:00

So yesterday MM and I practiced corn hole, then got off the ship and walked around this local marketplace on the pier. Two Diet Coke purchases later, we boarded the ship in time for the corn hole game, losing on the second round. At least the powers that be listened to us and brought out a second set of the game! Duh...they had a second set onboard already and didn't think to use it??? Oh well...

We knew that the show would be crowded last night, with John being onboard. And who did we see way ahead of us in our hallway when we were heading to the theatre? John, walking forward, talking with the room stewards along the way. CD James introduced John on stage, and he was warmly welcomed and was his usual funny self. He immediately praised the staff and crew, acknowledged that he knew lots of folks were disappointed that he did not make the inaugural crossing, but he at least wanted to pop over and say hello, even though it was only for one night...flying over on Ohmygod Airlines to get here! He flies back to Miami today, then Houston tomorrow.

John invited folks to greet him on the Promenade after the show (more on that another day), and we did see him....with a long line...so we opted to pass on by and let others have a chance to visit, since we have had our time with him on previous cruises. Bugger. Wish he could have stayed longer.

The side thruster repair apparently is going well. We depart at 8p tonight, then have two sea days, arriving in Galveston Sunday morning. We will stay onboard today and enjoy the quiet ship.

Life is good. WYWH!

Fantasy neighbor

2011-11-09T10:49:00.000-05:00

Hello from now sunny Freeport where we were welcomed with liquid sunshine and a water gun salute for the Magic's first arrival in the Bahamas. MM and I will go ashore after lunch, with less crowds exiting. Jean C (bloggers cruise bud from Canada) said at breakfast today that John is only spending tonight with us. Bugger. I was hoping he would cruise all the way to Galveston with us. We shall see.

Rough seas again all night, so it feels good to be docked and not rocking. And it will also feel good to hit land for a bit today.

Laid back and loving life. WYWH!

Majorca

2011-11-08T06:50:00.000-05:00

Lovely street scene from the HOHO bus.

So today is sea day 6 in a row. At least the weather is improving.

MM and I lost our first round at corn hole yesterday, but we'll try again for the afternoon round. The ship badly needs to purchase a second set! It seems to be the most favored activity.

We went to the past guest party last night before dinner. Entertainment is another illusionist tonight. We shall try to get in on the early show. There is always Ron at the piano bar. We are there at least for awhile every night. No, Ivana, he is not worldly famous...but he could be...he is talented and personable. MM and I rode the elevator with him the other day.

Big news...John Heald joins us in Freeport tomorrow. Woohoo!!!

That's it from the high sea, where life is good. WYWH!

Sea day #4 - rain

2011-11-06T13:17:00.000-05:00

But what the heck, we are on a cruise, so it is a good day. This is our room, but we have a bonus tub room with sink! Not too shabby, and certainly all we need.

We hit the midway point at midnight last night between leaving the Med and reaching Freeport. We still have a long way to go, arriving Wednesday. Today we have no network TV, but we still have plenty of books, activities, and things to do. We saw Secretariat, and half of Casino Royale.

They definitely need another corn hole set. There are too many folks signing up to play on the one set, so we gave up because there is no way everyone can get a turn with the time allotted for the activity. Bugger. We've met lots of nice folks, something we enjoy a lot.

That's it for today on the high sea. WYWH!

Sea day on the Lido

2011-11-05T09:26:00.000-04:00

Sunshine, live music...life is good!

Lucky me!

2011-11-04T08:33:00.000-04:00

Dick and I attended a pro photo talk with none other than the famous Radu this morning, and he gave me this signed panorama photo!!! And we have been to Monte Carlo, so that makes it even more special.

Our kids will be proud to know that we were the corn hole champions yesterday. Who says sea days are boring? Not us.

Happy birthday to Empress Bee today! Miss you; send special hugs to you and Charlie. And to Ivana, so I could not finish that lovely bowl of pasta, but my guy sure did...and we have been back for more. The food onboard has been good everywhere. We finally learned to get to the theatre early to get seats. The comedic juggler was excellent, and we have had some good musicians. Magic guy...not so good, plus we could hardly see nor understand him...audio magic does not work!

Big new dance venue last night had to be cancelled due to rolling seas and safety concerns. A female impressionist (not impersonator!) quickly filled in the slot and was awesome...what a voice range. Hope to see her again.

We may lose satellite ability by tomorrow, since there are only fish in the ocean and they don't require a signal. Weather is sunny, windy, and 70ish. Seas are calming down. Perfect. We got to enjoy the galley tour yesterday...also learned that we will be in Freeport Wed and expect to depart @ 5 on Thurs, losing a sea day en route to Galveston. Apparently we need all 6 sea days to get to the Bahamas period, no matter which port, however we have to use Freeport for their repair facility. No choice. Bugger. We will manage.

Life is good. WYWH!