Congratulations, Vicki

Saturday was a great party for Vicki on the farm in Indiana. About 80 people were in attendance, a good many of them my relatives. The kids enjoyed swimming in the pond and using an old row boat as a diving platform. The older kids played volleyball and had a bonfire when it got dark. We "older" folks had a wonderful time visiting. We'll see most everyone again next Friday at Jessi and Joe's wedding and I'm thrilled about that. No need to say goodbye just then.




Ted and my nephew John spent the afternoon cooking 10 beer can chickens. The chickens were raised by Vicki, went about 8 lbs. each, and were delicious. John was relieved that Ted has done this for a crowd in the past and was able to help him this first time out.


This is John's version of "giving someone the bird!"



My niece Lynn made the cake and did a beautiful job.



We didn't get home until late and went right to bed. We attended church Sunday morning in Lawrenceburg and ate breakfast at Howie's Diner before heading to Elk Lake. We sat back and relaxed and took boat rides on the lake. There are some pretty fancy houses going up. The first one is Karen & Ron's cabin and dock, the second is my deceased brother's old place. The rest are just nice looking ones we passed on our rides.








We pass through some small towns getting to the lake. I was impressed with all the flowers on the gravestones (an old "Decoration Day" tradition). We couldn't pass up this sign with a different message on each side. Rand Paul has a great chance in this area.

Moving Day

We took a walk around the lake Thursday night because it never did rain. A few spots were pretty wet and Jim said the lake had been up but was dropping back to normal levels. The temperature has been above average but after the temps and humidity of Houston, it feels great to us.

I think it rained a little through the night but morning dawned sunny and clear. Our spot opened up before we even woke up so first order of the day was to bring in the slides and move across the street backing up to the lake. Once that was done we unhooked and set up inside and out.

Ted washed the trailer (of course) and I vacuumed inside and washed the kitchen floor. Karen called and said they had just come back from the lake. They wanted to get the grass cut before we went down so that didn't have to be done while we were there. She wanted to see our new trailer so we made plans for them to come by to visit and we would go to LaRosa's for a late lunch/early dinner.

The bad news for the day was that her washer has gone kaput! She has a repairman coming Wednesday to look at it. If he can fix it, she'll need the rest of that day to do her own laundry and I won't be able to use it until Thursday. I may be using Jim's new laundry here at the park.

It was good to see both of them and they really liked the new RV. Ronnie was interested in all the new and extra things that we have on this trailer that we didn't have on the other. Karen was content to admire the inside. We visited for awhile and then went to have a pizza.

They left early evening and we went into Lawrenceburg to Wal-Mart (where else?). We needed bottled water, a battery for the awning remote, cards for the graduation party today and the wedding next week and shaving cream for Ted. If you ever need bar soap at Wal-Mart it isn't in the grocery aisle with soap, it is in the healthy and beauty aisle in the pharmacy area - clear across the store! I didn't know soap was a cosmetic.

We sat outside until dark, then came in for a little TV before turning in. Today we go to Vicki's graduation party. We'll get to see a lot of my family and Ted will get to visit Todd's horses.

We are coming back here to sleep, go to church tomorrow morning and then head down to the lake for the rest of the Memorial Day weekend. We'll be back sometime Tuesday and have dinner plans with the couple who were our Maid of Honor and Best Man at our wedding.

I'm not sure how this feature got turned on but I can see everything I type translated into Spanish. I just have to put the cursor on a word and the Spanish comes up. If I highlight a whole sentence and put the cursor anywhere on it, the whole sentence gets translated. Maybe my computer is missing home!

We called Chris and everything is going OK. Nothing of importance has come in the mail. I told him just to throw all the ads in the recycle bin.

Have a great weekend or in Spanish, Tener un gran fin de semana!

No Shepherdsville Stop

We left Sikeston at 7:40 am CDT and decided to try a different route. The speed limit in parts of Illinois is 55 so we took US 60 east to Paducah KY where we picked up I-24 to the Wendell Ford Parkway. This used to be a toll road but became public a few years back. It is good road, little traffic and nice rolling Kentucky hills. As we approached Elizabethtown KY I received a call from Rita. Wayne's mother had collapsed and they were on their way there. It is a two hour drive so they had no idea when they would get back. We told them not to worry and we decided to just come into Cincinnati without stopping since it was only 1 o'clock.

We called Jim at the campground and he said we could pull into a pull-thru overnight and move to our lake spot tomorrow when it opens up. So that's what we did. It was 3:30 pm EDT by the time we got parked and I had anything to eat. There is only one service plaza on the Wendell Ford but we didn't stop. I'm surprised I didn't get a headache. We haven't unhooked since we're moving tomorrow so we'll stay put for the night.

They are predicting some rain showers so we'll just hunker down and give thanks for our safe travels. Since we weren't supposed to be here until tomorrow, we have no plans. I did call Karen to tell her we are here but I reached her answering machine. We may go over there tomorrow to do laundry since we have keys to get in if they are already at the lake. And LaRosa's Pizza may be on radar also.

Day Two

We left Texarkana around 7:45 this morning and made one stop at a rest area for a pit stop and a bite to eat. We tried to make Sikeston (385 miles) on one tank of fuel but were cutting it too close for comfort so we stopped about 20 miles south of our final destination and got 5 gallons. We paid $2.98. On arrival we filled up next to the campgound for $2.79. Jay had told us this was the cheapest diesel around. With a 38 gallon tank, it makes a difference. We got a great spot in the park right across from the office (good wifi) and the bath and shower house that we'll both use later this evening. We were set up by 3:30.

We started the A/C, watched some Cash Cab on Discovery and then went to Lambert's for dinner. The "throwed rolls" were as good as ever. We have learned to order a minimum amount of food because in addition to the huge yeast rolls, they bring fried potatoes, fried okra, black eyed peas and a macaroni & tomato dish around the entire time you eat. I brought home as much or more than I ate of the chicken salad I ordered. It will make a nice sandwich tomorrow when we stop at a rest area for lunch.

Our next stop is Shepherdsville, KY, just south of Louisville. Old friends Wayne and Rita live there and if it all works out, we'll spend tomorrow evening with them. Last time only Wayne could make it over to the campground.

Just wanted everyone to know we're safe and comfortable. Talk to you all later.

Midwestern Hayride

We left this morning and talked about the young man in a light suit, skinny tie and flat top that sang on the Midwestern Hayride in Cincinnati during the 50's. He was Hugh Nelson ... later to become Willie Nelson. And so we're On the Road Again.

Wind Down was a huge success with close to 70 people attending. However, the heat index was high with so many people there. Every bottle of wine and water was consumed.

Saturday Ted pulled the RV over to Rayford and started washing the outside. When I arrived with the Expedition loaded down, he and Tommy were almost finished. Late in the afternoon Jay and Stella arrived and we all went to Pit Master BBQ to eat. We ran into Jody and Dave who were also having dinner.

When we came out of church on Sunday morning we called back to the campground and told the others to meet us at IHOP. I had not brought the refrigerator items over yet and we really had nothing to fix for breakfast. We finished settling things inside the RV, visited with the others, took a short nap and then went to Terry & Carol's house for dinner along with Susan, Vince, Lynn and Adrian. It was excellent ... shrimp cocktail, roast beef tenderloin, mashed potatoes and asparagus. That was followed up with a banana cake for dessert.

Monday was D-Day. We had to get all our ducks in a row. We went back to check on Chris at the house and make sure he had all the keys and info he needed. We packed up the rest of the food, some odds and ends and then headed to Sam's to prepare for our "trailerwarming" party.

Tommy was such a big help. He brought us a cooler full of ice and his electric ice maker. We set up our travel table and two of his. He and Ted brought Tommy's umbrella table and chairs to our site. They also brought over Jay's picnic table. I was inside slicing tomatoes, onions and chopping up lettuce. I ran in and out many, many times getting the drinks, food, utensils, etc. all set up.

We had such a fun time showing off our new trailer to so many of our friends. I think everyone enjoyed our little get together. We had a Premium Site at the park and had plenty of room for the group. Afterwards Tommy, Susan, Jay and Stella all helped us get things back where they belonged. We sat and visited for awhile and then we had to take my car back home. It was late when we got back and we were both really tired and went right to bed.

This morning we left at 8:15 and pulled into Texarkana, AR at 2:30. We set up and went to the pool for a few hours. We've had dinner and are sitting in our theater recliners watching the finales on TV tonight.

Tomorrow's destination is Sikeston, MO. We'll be having dinner at Lambert's, home of the "throwed rolls." There's a convenient campground, cheapest diesel and great restaurant all at one exit!!

Let's Roll

We've been tying up loose ends before we head out. Rebecca is here today cleaning and Chris is moving in. She won't be cleaning for him while we're gone but will clean right before we get back. He's tickled with the wi-fi router set up and this chance to not be at his Mom and Dad's for now.

I attended the Happy Hour for the Activity Chairs at the president's home. There are a lot of new, young people I didn't know. But there were many "seasoned" members that I've known for quite some time. It was a fun gathering and I appreciated the gesture by the board in recognizing our contribution to the club.

I also attended the Newcomer's luncheon, the last for this year. I was again recognized for my Activity Chair role and the old and new Boards were honored. I met some more new people and saw many friends. My friend who had the stroke is at a rehab facility now. She has some balance issues but seems to be making great progress with everything else. Another friend who just came home from a round-the-world five month cruise was there also. She's a delight to talk to. She showed me a gold pendant she said had her name written in Arabic. I told her if she ran into someone who knew how to read it she may want to go the other way!

I had two doctor appointments this week so that is all done. All the paperwork I need while we're on the road is in the pouch I take with us. Ted has turned on the refrigerator and it is cold so he has run out to put soft drinks and beer in.

We're moving the RV to Rayford tomorrow and will be there until Tuesday. Ted wants to wash the yellow pollen off the trailer and I'll need to dust and clean a bit inside. We'll run back and forth until we're all loaded up. Tommy & Susan are over there right now and we're having dinner with them on Saturday night. We've been invited to Terry & Carol's Sunday night. On Monday we're hosting a small get together for some of our friends to come see the new RV. We've rented a premium site that has a gas grill as well as an umbrella table and is a much larger site. Ted will grill burgers and we'll toss back a few wines or beers. Tuesday morning we're going to sing a chorus of Willie Nelson's "On The Road Again" as we head for Texarkana.

We haven't been successful at Verizon just yet. We are now armed with the exact phone and plan our friend has who tethers. I've printed two things off the internet that talks about it. Just maybe the reps will pay attention when I read the sentence that says "most Verizon reps don't know about this tethering feature." Wish us luck.

I have to make an appetizer for Wind Down tonight. Sure hope someone makes a dessert. It's not a party without it!

Things Are Picking Up

After our uneventful week at home, we went to dinner Saturday night with Terry & Carol after church. We tried a new Italian restaurant that opened recently but none of us had been to. It was really good and I'm sure we'll go back. Terry picked out a great red wine and the three of us shared the bottle. Ted drank his normal Diet Coke.

Today was my CWJF orientation meeting. Jacque picked me up a little after 8 o'clock this morning and it was close to 2:30 when we got home. They served a light breakfast and lunch around all the talks teaching us what we will be doing and how to do it.

It's a bit overwhelming in the beginning but everything you need to know is at your fingertips either in the books they provide, on the computer or from your PAL or MOM. I ordered two shirts since we have to be dressed "in uniform" when we do service hours. And I was able to sign up for a few activities in August and September.

The first year you are given specific things to do. I'm sure this is to introduce new people to all that is out there. In subsequent years we have to put in double the hours but can pick exactly what we want to do and where.

I met Jeanette at several functions and today she asked me to pair with her for a Meals on Wheels route once a month. It's an easy way to get in 24 hours because you are credited with two hours each day you do it. We figure we have a built in back-up in each other. We have to contact Meals On Wheels at the Friendship Center and see what routes and what days are open. Ted said he would help me if and when I needed it.

I signed up for a daycare stint, a seniors luncheon, a day at the resale shop and an immunization clinic for children. Junior Forum commits to help other organizations in their endeavors. I have a lot to learn. Wish me luck!

Tomorrow is a Happy Hour at the home of the Newcomers President. It is for Activity Chairs as an end-of-year "thank you." I've chaired my bunco group for almost nine years and this is the first time we've been invited to an event to honor us. It's nice.

Thursday is the Newcomers last luncheon of the year and Friday is the last Wind Down of the year. Things are slowing down as the kids get out of school, the heat arrives in earnest and people start leaving for cooler climes.

The last I heard about my friend who had the stroke, she was breathing on her own and talking and moving normally. Hallelujah!

The friends in Memphis replaced their flooded car and are helping his brother with the packing up of his furntiure. The demolition that needs to be done inside started this week. They project 3-4 months not living in the house. By then Brenda and Rick will be in the Pacific Northwest. We have no idea when we'll see them again. They have no plans at this time to return to this area next winter.

And life goes on.

Week of May 9, 2010

On these dates, here in east Texas, nothing much happened.

Well they did fix our security system, I had a neighborhood luncheon and got my hair cut. Like I said, nothing much happened.

Well I Won ... Sort Of

We played Couples Canasta Saturday night and I had three good hands and one bummer! Out of the last five cards in the draw pile, three were wild cards and the other team went out before we could get to them. I was playing with Ray and his wife Linda was playing with Jeff. They stuck it to us. Neither Ted nor I won any money.

We hung around the house Sunday until about 4 o'clock and then went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. We timed it right because we didn't wait but 5-10 minutes for a table. However, when we left about 6:15, there were people everywhere. I'm glad we went when we did. I heard from all three girls and had a nice conversation with each of them. Morgan told me she made her Mommy something with gems, and sparkles, and a rainbow but I didn't quite understand what it was. Turns out it was a picture frame. Kelly was going to church and out to breakfast with her in-laws. Kristin called later in the day. She had been out with friends.

So today I played Canasta for the third time in a week. My score was 27,000+ - a REALLY good score. Good enough to win! But there were only eight of us playing at two tables so we didn't play for money. So I won nothing but bragging rights.

I received word today that a very good friend had a massive stroke yesterday while preparing a Mother's Day dinner for her family. All I know is that she is in ICU at the nearby hospital and the family is in a "wait and see" mode. I am so tired of receiving bad news! I have made myself a promise to celebrate every baby, every wedding, every Baptism, every First Communion, every birthday party, every graduation, any little celebration that I can. The valleys are far outweighing the peaks anymore and I have a suspicion it only gets worse the older we get.

They did come and do our front yard today and it turned out really nice. The wax myrtles were over five feet tall and the pitosporum were about three. They all got taken out and everything redone. It took four guys 3.5 hours to do all the work. The wall had loose rocks replaced, the sprinklers were checked and fixed where better coverage could be obtained, topsoil was mixed in the bed after the old plants were out, the trees were trimmed and the new plants put in. We're happy with the outcome.

Temperature Yesterday - 95!

It's time to be getting out of Dodge. Now I know that is in Kansas but it sums up our feelings right about now. Spring was certainly short.

When I picked up Terry & Carol on Tuesday at the airport I was not allowed to stop outside and wait. They kept everyone moving. We found out later they had to blow up a suitcase at the airport. That, coupled with the Times Square incident, put them on high alert. I had just been waved on when Carol called and said they had arrived 25 minutes early, had their bags and were ready. It took me another 10 minutes to circle back around.

Wednesday was Continental Breakfast and is the last one I will attend until October. I think this is a great group because it allows new people to just drop in, meet new people and some seasoned members, and get info on the group. It's also allows new people to learn about stores, hairdressers, doctors, shopping, schools, etc. It's a great introduction to the area with no commitment whatsoever.

Our front yard didn't get revamped on Thursday. I received a call that they were behind on the morning job and they needed to start ours by 1 o'clock to finish by dark. So now it is set for Monday afternoon. I'm playing Canasta and Ted has a doctor appointment but they said it's not necessary for us to be here. Ted drove over and back to Beaumont and was surprised when he came home to nothing having been done. All in good time I guess.

Friday was the Junior Forum installation luncheon. It was held at the conference center and was very well done. The incoming board was feted with songs from the "choir" about each of their jobs such as "She Works Hard for the Money" for the treasurer. The whole skit was a hoot and turned what could have been a boring program into a very fun one. Afterwards, Susan and I went to a vendors' private showing of items in one of the Brownstones on the waterway. I had never been in one of them. They are four stories, fairly narrow and didn't appeal to me at all. But to each his own.

Susan invited us to join them at the country club for the Friday night buffet. When we arrived, Terry, Carol, Jody, Dave, Susan and Vince were already there. Dan and Maria came in right behind us. We had a nice evening and came home about 9 o'clock.

Tonight is Couples Canasta at Jeff and Connie's. We'll go to church at 5, hit Chik-Fil-A at 6 and then head on over right before 7. That gives us tomorrow with nothing planned for Mother's Day. We'll come up with something and if we don't, a quiet day at home is always welcome.

It's 90 Degrees Already

I'm going to go back and start reading my Michigan blogs to remind myself about the cold! The humidity hasn't been bad so it has actually been quite beautiful here. But I know what is coming.

We went to Wine Tasting and it was a small group. The original group has split off into three different groups plus there were a lot of Derby parties going on. But it was nice to sit around in a group and really talk instead of the standing and wandering around with hit and miss conversation that usually goes on.

Sunday I worked on our trip. I think we are not going to go all the way across Minnesota and North Dakota. That's over 700 miles and when we go to the Northwest we can easily hit Medora, ND then. It appears we'll turn south at Duluth and make our way through Iowa, Kansas and Oklahoma back toward Texas. We need to be home by mid-August and once we leave the UP of Michigan on July 12 we'll only have a month to meander home. But that's the good part about dragging your house with you. You can change your mind whenever you want or need to.

I played Canasta Monday with a different group than the one I belong to. This one serves lunch and since it was close to Cinco de Mayo, the menu was Mexican. I didn't win any money but I certainly did enjoy the lunch out. Ted was getting ready to leave for Denver when I got home so I didn't see much of him.

Today I am picking Terry & Carol up from the airport and Ted will be home later tonight. I'm still loading albums onto my iPod Touch. I didn't realize we had so many CDs until now!

Our last summer traveling buddies, Rick & Brenda, are parked in Memphis next to his brother's house. Rick works in his brother's greenhouses in the spring when they are busy. The floods came over the weekend sending 6-8 inches of water into Mike's house, destroying a lot of the plants and Rick's car had water up to the dash. Luckily their motorhome sat high enough that it didn't get wet. Mike's wife is one of the friends I asked prayers for. What a terrible time to be forced out of your home. Both she and Mike need our prayers.

I can't wait to get on the road where we don't usually listen to the radio or have cable TV. It seems all the news is bad. I know sticking my head in the sand doesn't accomplish anything but other than voting when I have the right, I'm not sure there is anything I can do except maybe pray.

I was "chatting" on line with a friend visiting in Barcelona and she was describing all the beautiful cathedrals of Europe. Every village, town, city has a church at its center. We lamented that church has gone from being the center of existence to being forced out of existence. I don't think we're heading in the right direction.

Quiet Week

It's been a quiet week spent mostly with my new iPod Touch. I have about 700 pictures loaded, a lot of music (with lots more to put on), most of my address book is on and I've sent and received e-mails. So I'm doing good though it hasn't been without trial and error. I haven't started investigating "apps" yet. I really don't think I'd care to read a book off something the size of a cell phone though.

Ted took Terry & Carol to the airport on Tuesday and I fixed a chicken casserole, cranberry relish, cornbread and brownies for my neighbor who just had back surgery. Her daughter-in-law cleans our house and her single son is going to stay here while we're gone this summer. She had the same back surgeon that Ted had.

I went to Susan's Happy Hour at the country club on Wednesday and Teri asked me to join her for her birthday dinner afterwards. Members get a free meal one Wednesday during their birthday month. I agreed and we had a good time. I left my phone at home charging so Ted was wondering why I was gone so long. He had been at the gun club and had eaten on his way home.

We went to Verizon Thursday to determine what we want to do about internet while we are gone. We've gotten by with campground wi-fi, libraries, friends/family internet, Hampton Inns, etc. Our biggest objection to mobile broadband is that you have to sign a 2-year contract and we only want it 3 months out of a year. We learned about phone tethering from other campers. The biggest plus is that you can turn it off and on when you want.

We need a new phone, preferably EVDO Rev-A capable and the tethering cord. It will serve as a modem for our laptop. You can buy an antenna booster too. The month starts on your billing cycle so around May 20 we'll take the laptop to Verizon, buy the phone and cord and have them put it all together and show us how it works. We'll keep the service on while we're gone. In the meantime, Chris will be able to use his laptop off our router at the house.

Last night we went to a cookout and bunco with the church group. Several of the couples have kids making their First Communion. You know you are a generation ahead when your grandchild is doing the same thing, not to mention our oldest grandchild will turn 20 in June!

Tonight is Wine Tasting and I'm making my Piquant Cocktail Meatballs. They are always a big hit. I don't use frozen meatballs. I make my own from scratch and it makes a big difference. Tomorrow is church and not much else but next week is jam packed. Canasta, airport to pick up Terry & Carol, Breakfast Club, yard gets redone, installation luncheon for Junior Forum and Couple's Canasta.

We went to the RV yesterday to change the batteries in our fire alarm and carbon monoxide monitor. Both have been tweeting for awhile. I took a bag full of stuff out so the loading has begun!

2010 Amazing Bluebonnet Photos

My friend Kay forwarded these great pictures of the bluebonnets taken out in the Hill Country. Our cold, wet winter added to their beauty this year. Just had to post these so I can save them in my journal.

Back Home

We flew home yesterday on a toy airplane. That's what those regional jets feel like. It had the 2/1 configuration and you have to walk sideways down the aisle. If you are as tall as Ted, you have to stoop besides. They had changed from a 737 and there were some unhappy passengers. The flight was uneventful and Continental continues to give you some food so I'm not complaining. We arrived safely and that's the outcome I'm always looking for.

We had a very nice visit with all the kids. Ted spent Friday at Dean Sellers Ford educating himself on what engines and rear ends are being produced in what trucks now. It appears we can only get the engine and rear end he wants if we buy a dually which I really don't want. Getting my Expedition past his current F-250 in our driveway is OK, but two more tire widths would make it a challenge. He'll continue to monitor what others are saying that pull trailers with the new engine. Kara and I did some running around.

Allen picked up Kristin that evening from the airport and took her to her friend Sheetal's house where she spent the night. Then he met the rest of us at Red Robin for dinner. The trees and flowers are so beautiful right now and I was snapping pictures along the way.

Saturday was the First Communion Mass at 2 o'clock. Ted and I served as EMEs and I gave Sam the host and Ted gave him the wine. What a special thing for all of us to remember. I was very moved realizing how many children I was giving First Communion to. Even Sam's 2nd grade teacher came to the Mass and brought him a gift. How nice of her. She was unable to join us for the party ...

... which was sensational. Our room at Dave & Buster's was soundproof so we didn't have to deal with the noise from the arcade. The tables were round which is always good for conversing. My menus were a hit even with the waitresses. They said they were much better than anything their marketing department ever put out. The food was great and everyone had fun playing games. I played skeeball and gave my tickets to Morgan or rather she kept taking them as soon as I won any.

Sunday was cool and drizzly and we stayed in. Kristin came for breakfast, Kelly's family stopped over later and after Ted took Kristin to the airport, Ellen and John came by for dinner and to spend the evening.

For our anniversary the kids gave us an iPod touch. So far I've been able to download and play a Patsy Cline album and send Kara a few e-mails. The problem is I'm not sure what I did to accomplish those tasks. Apple tells you what you can do with the iPod but not HOW to do it. I'll have to find me a 10 year old to teach me I guess. We have an iPod docking station in the new RV that will play the music through our surround sound. So once I learn how to use it hand held, I'll be needing more lessons in how to use it in the docking station. Technology!!

Let's hope they can teach this old dog new tricks.

Sam's First Communion Day

Walking into church


Sam's Class





Marque at Dave and Buster's Restaurant and Arcade


Grandma with John and Ellen


Grandpa with Bill and Lorie



My great Aunt Ret (Sam's great, great, great aunt) made a lamb cake for my children's First Communion. Kara had this made in memory of her own First Communion. Aunt Ret died in 1984.


Sam used the arcade tickets he won to buy a Scooby Dog. Both he and Morgan collected everyone's tickets to add to their stash. She bought a Hello Kitty backpack.

Springtime in Michigan (using Kara's computer)

Morgan


Kroger parking lot


Red Robin parking lot


St. Thomas More Church parking lot



St. Thomas More Church Driveway



Tree in front of Kara and Allen's house



Kara and Allen's house

On A Lighter Note

I have to record a couple of things that have transpired between me and Morgan. She is the cutest, sweetest little thing and is polite and understanding as only a 5 year old can be.

Yesterday she was at the kitchen table drawing and asked me to spell HAPPY. So I did. Then she asked me to spell BERT. Evenutally she asked me to spell FROM. Then she showed me the card she made for the birthday party she is attending today. It said HAPPY BERT DAY FROM MORGAN. I guess she knew how to spell DAY. It was too cute to correct. It went off this morning with the gift!


On Thursday she was playing outside with Ted and she climbed the tree while wearing her plastic tiara. I went out to take her picture and I will publish it when I get home. She told me she had to pay $2 of her own money for her tiara. I told her those plastic jewels are expensive and the real ones aren't any cheaper!



Today when she was getting her hair combed for the party I was in her room in my PJs. They are light green cotton with flamingos (our camping group mascot) with Santa hats on. Eileen gave them to me this past Christmas. Morgan asked what the birds were and I told her flamingos. She asked if they were Christmas jammies. I said I guess so and she said "is that all you had 'cause I have a whole drawer full!"

Out of the mouths of babes.

Five years ago today the kids threw a 40th anniversary party for us here in Michigan ... and it snowed! When we married 45 years ago in Cincinnati it was an overcast day. Today we are getting rain.

May you have sunshine in your life today and always.

Happy 45th Anniversary, Ted. Today I love you more than yesterday but not as much as tomorrow.

Rest In Peace, Anita

One of the friends that I asked prayers for passed away last evening at home in her sleep. She fought hard but there's always a point when you just can't go on. Thank you for any prayers you offered up for her. May she rest in peace.

We arrived safely in Michigan and will blog again at the beginning of next week.

An RV Warming Gift!

Ted just brought the mail in and there was a Parcel Post box from my niece, Jill. She is a talented quilter and makes beautiful quilts and many other things. I've been trying to get her to visit us here to attend the International Quilt Show but so far no luck.

Recently on her blog she showed a set of quilted placemats she made with an RV pattern. I was thinking how cute they were and how much I would like a set. I thought perhaps when we see her this summer I could get in her good graces enough to ask her to make me a set. She keeps so busy that I didn't know if she would have time.

Lo and behold the box contained the four placemats and a hot pad to match! The front is a white background with RVs in color. The backing is medium brown with dark brown RV prints on it. They are so neat!! I can't wait to put them on our dinette table in the 5th wheel.

Thank you, Jill. Your thoughtfulness will not be forgotten. You are so special!

Quiet Week of Preparation

We are going to Michigan tomorrow for Sam's First Communion so I kept my calendar light this week. Rebecca hasn't been here since the end of March so I've been doing more housework than usual. The laundry and ironing are caught up and yesterday we stopped at the store for a few items.

I've hired a landscape architect to redo our front natural area. What we have is way overgrown and the soil in the walled area is more mulch than topsoil and I can't get much to grow. There's been a lot of back and forth with Absolutely Outdoors but I think we're good to go now. They are going to check the sprinklers to be sure I'm getting good coverage, straighten some rocks in the wall, trim the live oaks and magnolias, remove the wax myrtles and pitosporum and put in good dirt then do the new plantings. It will probably get done next week after our return.

Monday was bunco and as usual we had a good time. The ladies get to talking so much we almost forget to play the game. And of course everyone puts out such a lovely spread of food but I was pretty good and ate only apple slices and a small portion of blueberry french toast that was yummy. I won't be able to play again until October. Next month I have a Junior Forum meeting, I'll be out of town in June, we don't play in July and August and September is another Junior Forum meeting. I hope they don't kick me out before my return in October!

I had a follow-up visit Tuesday with the eye doctor to my cataract surgery nearly five months ago. He said I am 20/20 for close up in my left eye and 20/20 for distance in my right eye ... what they call monovision. I asked him about driving glasses. I'm Ted's navigator and I really need to be able to read signs sooner. He gave me a prescription for progressive lenses that have three different levels so I can see distance, middle and close out of both eyes when I wear them.

When I took the prescription to have it filled and they checked my record they were a bit confused. The prescription for each eye was opposite the other and less strong than previously. I explained my choice of monovision for my cataract surgery and she said then it made sense.

Today I'll get my clothes put together because we are leaving early in the morning. Kara called and asked if we would serve as EMEs (Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, i.e., give out Communion) at Sam's Mass. She said they are trying to station us so Ted and I will actually give Sam the host and wine. How wonderful if it works. It is also our 45th anniversary and I can't think of a more special way to spend it.

Sam's party is at Dave & Buster's which is a restaurant and arcade. We have a private room for the 32 people attending. I typed up the menu selections Kara chose and decorated it with Sam's picture and some Eucharistic symbols. Then I printed it on card stock instead of just paper. My little contribution to the day. In addition to dinner, each person gets a $10 arcade card to play games. I told Sam he could have mine unless they have Skeeball! If so, I'm going to play with him but will give him any prize tickets I win. I'm sure the kids attending will end up with more cards than they can use up.

If you are so inclined, say a prayer for two friends of mine that are terminally ill with cancer. Their time here with us is growing short and it is a tough time for all involved. Thanks.

Super Fun Weekend and Now Columbus

I think the Tea Party was a success. They clocked 11,000 going through the turnstiles but the paper reported 6,000. And the late night news didn't even cover it! And this is Texas. Can't even imagine what else gets ignored as news in the coastal states. Blogs and tweets are not news. Investigative reporting showing both sides of a story is journalism. I'm still trying to learn what passport Barry Soetoro, Indonesian national, Islam religion, traveled on to the U.S. to accept a foreign student scholarship at Occidental College. They can trace a cow to its barn in Canada but no one knows the answer to this? Remember, this is a blog, not the news, just my opinion.

Now on to the good stuff. I did laundry and ironed on Friday (not good stuff by most people's standards) but that evening we went to Wind Down. Remember last month when I complained there were no desserts? Well there was a table full this time - cheesecake, Harvey Wallbanger cake, a birthday cake, apple strudel and lemon squares. Michele said "someone" complained last month about no desserts so everyone overdid it. I told her "that would be me!" I chose the lemon squares.

There was a big crowd and the night was perfect. Michele's yard is like a visit to a commercial gardens. She has flowers and plants everywhere plus a vegetable garden and fruit trees. Last time she came here she brought me lemons (she must know about those lemon squares) and green peppers.

I met a new couple who were going out the next day to look at RVs. They are looking for a lighter weight bumper pull travel trailer due to the need for their SUV to pull it. They had lots of questions and I was more than happy to answer them. The party is supposed to end at 10 but I think it was closer to 11 when we left. Alden always makes sure there is one bottle of Riesling just for me. How sweet of him.

Saturday night was the performance of Always, Patsy Cline at the Opry in Magnolia. We've had reservations for a few months now, ever since we learned it was coming. Terry, Carol, Vince and Susan went with us. I saw this play at Loch Haven Park in Orlando more than 10 years ago but was anxious to see it again. If you really know me, you know she's my favorite. The ringtone on my phone is her singing Crazy. When it goes off Ted doesn't say your phone is ringing, he says Patsy's singing.

We ate dinner at Las Fuentas in Magnolia, our favorite Mexican restaurant. It was the first time Vince and Susan ate there and they really liked it. Their menu is more extensive than most Mexican restaurants. From the Margaritas to the sopapillas, it was a great meal.

We had seats in the second row and the play was terrific. Here's a short synopsis of the play. In 1959 Patsy appeared on the Arthur Godfrey show and Louise of Huntsville, TX became a huge fan. She called the radio station every day to request a Patsy Cline song. In 1961 when Patsy came to the Esquire dance hall in Hempstead, TX, Louise and friends went to see her and struck up a friendship. Patsy spent the night at Louise's house (Houston is a long taxi ride from Hempstead and there weren't any taxis anyway) and she took her to the radio station for an interview Louise arranged and then to the airport. Thus began a series of letters back and forth until Patsy's untimely death in 1963. The gal playing Patsy sang 27 songs in two hours and did a bang up job. This Louise was a hoot and outshone the one I saw in Orlando by a mile.

We're going to church this morning and then Ted has to leave for a flight to Columbus, OH. He'll be back tomorrow sometime. As for me - I'm tempted to go see the last performance of the play again!

I Passed on the Tea Party

I have been out and about all week and tonight I am simply tired. Ted, Terry and Carol have gone to the Tea Party at the Sam Houston Raceway. I just didn't have it in me to join them.

Monday was a fiasco for Ted getting the new plates for the trailer. We went to storage, hooked up, drove to the Flying J, got on the scale, unhooked the truck, called to tell the cashier to weigh the trailer. Then we had to hook back up, pull it off, park and go inside. So far, so good.

We put it back in storage and came home. Ted then took the bill of sale, our insurance, the Arizona title, the VIN ID certification, the weight document, a copy of our trust and a check to the place where you get tags. First problem, he needed to fill out two more papers and one needed my signature AND they needed the original of our trust WITH A SEAL. So he came home, I signed the paper and gave him the original in the lawyer's blue paper with obvious original signatures but no seal. We were both pretty frustrated by then. I told him to tell them the original was good enough to buy the house and it should be good enough to get a license tag. Why you would title your RV into someone else's trust is beyond me. When he went back they accepted it all and we now have a tag!!

In the meantime I had gone to Canasta and had a good time playing with my friends. I came real close to winning but fell a bit short. Since you only pay $1 to play, even if you win you don't get much. It's all for fun.

Tuesday we went over Rayford to visit Jay, Stella and our friend Bill. There was a group from the campground going to Big E McGee's for an early dinner so we went with them. Our marketing attempt had worked; but even better, they had gone on line and printed out Buy One, Get One Free coupons for everyone so we only paid for one dinner. We came back and visited some more before heading home.

The CWJF coffee was Wednesday at 10 so I picked up Jacque at 9, then got the other four ladies at Starbucks and headed south. We received our calendars and books plus they took our picture for the leaders use only. We had to hold a board with our name on it and it looked like a mug shot. We get a nice portrait done at orientation and that one goes in the directory. Good thing! When I got home I checked on things, Ted was gone shooting, so I took off for the mall and went right to Happy Hour. I had a couple glasses of wine and ate dinner there. By the time I got home, Ted was home too.

Today was the Newcomer's Luncheon and I picked up Teri at 11. We had made plans for our table the night before so we had a good group. We sure laughed a lot with all the stories. They had a white elephant auction but our table only bought two items.

I had to go back to the mall because for the first time in my life, the slacks I bought were too short. If I can find a pair that doens't need hemming it's a miracle, but to be too short is unheard of. Thankfully they had the same colors and size in Regular instead of Short.

By the time I got back Ted was getting ready to go to the Tea Party. With all the bags, hangers and new clothes, my bedroom looked like a bomb went off. I also needed to get things in a semblance of order in the closet. So I sent him off and I'm going to put my feet up shortly. I really am physically tired.

We have another busy weekend and then a short week before we leave for Michigan for Sam's First Communion.

I may get a job. I need the rest.

Hot Time in the Old Town This Weekend

Saturday was the CWJF Gala at the Marriott. We went to Susan and Vince's and rode together to the hotel. They had been working there all day so knew right where to park in the garage. We used the walkway to walk across to the ballroom where our group was.

There must have been 400 people and lots of auction items to bid on. There were four large live auction items, an auction board, a silent auction and a raffle. This is their biggest fund raiser of the year.

We enjoyed drinks from the open bar and inspected all the auction items. Susan introduced me to a lot of women and I saw some of those I had met previously at the information coffee. I'm terrible with names and this is going to take me awhile. This is Ted and Susan at the bar.


Ted and I bought a raffle ticket, bid on a wine cooler, a digital photo frame and two beautiful vertical mirrors for either side of our china cabinet. We didn't win the raffle and were outbid on all the others. Susan and I did buy a 10-girl overnight trip to Austin off the big board for $1400. We have 7 gals lined up and won't have any trouble getting three more. That's only $140 a piece and we'll have a lot of fun. It includes meals and accommodations. Austin is a fun town and with 10 of us, it should be a blast. The date is in November when I know I'm available.

After a delicious dinner there was dancing to a great band. The vocalists were so talented and we enjoyed them. The dance floor was full and we danced some ourselves. Susan helped with the silent auction bids and then we all headed home from a very enjoyable night.

Our weather has been so nice and Sunday after church Dave and Karen drove up from Houston to attend The Woodlands Waterway Art Fair with us. This fair keeps expanding and each year more and more of the waterway gets lined with vendors. We didn't buy anything but Karen and Dave purchased three paintings. We saw Fr. Tom and chatted with him while they made two of their purchases. Afterwards we ate at Tesar's which was very good. They had the doors open because of the pleasant weather. We promised them we would drive into Houston soon to visit. Last year we attended the Stages Repertory Theater's production of Grey Gardens with them.

Today we have to take the RV to the Flying J to get it weighed. It's the last information we need to get the new tags. If we had known this we could have done it while traveling to or from the valley. Ted called to see if he had everything and they told him he needed the VIN certified and our mechanic did that plus we needed it weighed. The weight is something Ted wants to know because it matters to the truck. When he buys a new one he wants to know he is getting what he needs. Our present truck pulled our old RV up and down mountains with no problems. We pulled this one on flat ground with no problems. We're not sure how it would do in mountains because we think it is about 1000 lbs. heavier. At least after today we'll know for sure.

I'm playing Canasta this afternoon so it will be another busy start to another busy week. Get out in the sunshine. It provides Vitamin D and helps your body absorb calcium. Important facts for us "old folks."

It Turned Into a Busy Week

Thank goodness I had Monday to catch up from the Wine Tasting and Easter because it was my only day free. It gave me a breather.

On Tuesday we went to Rayford to pick up Jay & Stella and we headed to Old Town Spring to a new restaurant that serves family style. We were well after the lunch crowd and had the place to ourselves. The food was really good and you could have as much as you wanted. We took a stack of their marketing cards back to the campground to be put in the information bags that are given to people checking in. We had a great visit sitting outside in super weather but at 6:45 Jay and I both said TV time was 7. He likes NCIS and I'm a Dancing with the Stars nut. So we parted and promised to get together next week.

Wednesday was Continental Breakfast with Newcomers. I'm supposed to be co-chair with Ann on this but she does ALL the arrangements getting people to host the event. We went to a lovely home in Creekside and the landscaping was fabulous. It sat on a pond, had an arbor, a waterfall, etc. I was very impressed. We had a nice crowd of mostly new people and that is our intent.

I had a full car (8 in all) to go back to Old Town Spring to eat at Ellen's on Thursday. April was my month to arrange the neighborhood ladies' luncheon. We had 14 people attend and that's a good size crowd. We keep the group at no more than 20 so it was a good showing. My neighbor Nancy is going to speak to the Moody Endowment in Galveston about some plates she collects that were also collected by Mary Moody. What an honor for her. There has been a plate made every year before the mold is broken since 1895 and Nancy is missing just 1895 and her 1896 is a broken plate but she has both pieces. She said when she married Ken he wasn't enthused about putting 115 holes in the wall!

Friday didn't go quite as planned. Rebecca called to say her mother-in-law was having surgery and she wanted to be at the hospital. Since I had to clean last Saturday and then do it again on Monday, the house really wasn't dirty. So I vacuumed, wiped tabletops, did the kitchen floor, etc. - what my Mom called "a lick and a promise." In the afternoon our camping friend Barbara came for a visit. She was at a rally in Conroe and took time to drive down. I fixed lunch and the three of us had lots to talk about. It was so nice to see her.

Last night we were invited to Jody and Dave's to celebrate Terry's birthday. There were 8 of us in all and we had a good time. The weather has been so nice and their yard is lovely. It is on the golf course so they have a wrought iron fence instead of the standard wood ones everyone else has so the view is very nice. Dave grilled some burgers and we had dinner before birthday cake and presents. They are such wonderful hosts and I know Terry was pleased.

We have a busy weekend planned and next week is as full as this one turned out to be. I hope wherever you are you are enjoying all that Spring has to offer.

Happy Easter Y'all

My week has been geared to having Wine Tasting at our home last night. I did go to Old Town Spring with Ann on Wednesday. We checked out the new restaurant, Ellen's, and I booked our neighborhood ladies group in for this coming Thursday.

We had a fun time perusing the stores in Old Town Spring and then hit some others on the way home. I bought more pillows for the couches and after taking a few back and replacing a damaged one, I think what I have now is working OK. It was Happy Hour night but I started with a headache and chose to pass on that.

Ted and I both worked hard at getting things ready. Most of the work was done outside. We are just finishing up the pollen season and everything outside was covered with it. Also the courtyard tiles were just about black from mold and algae from the winter. Ted used Clorox water on the courtyard and got that looking great. Then he cleaned the deck but had a hard time getting all the pollen off. Next he power washed all the furniture. We put flowering baskets on all our hooks and citronella candles on the tables. It looked great when he was finished.

Inside I was cleaning and preparing serving stations. One table was for the wine and glasses, one counter for serving the dinner food, another one for a coffee/dessert station and appetizers on the dining room table.

By removing the chairs from around the kitchen table, people had better access to the wine. And I used the chairs throughout the house for more seating. It all worked out fine and everyone enjoyed the metts, brats, German potato salad, onion pie, Reuben sandwiches, salad, German chocolate cake, etc. that was the menu everyone contributed to. I put out the six photo books I had made up of our riverboat cruise last fall and lots of people enjoyed looking at them. When the party broke up I was pooped!

We opted for 10 o'clock Mass this morning knowing it would be packed. We arrived around 9:40 and were directed to the gym because the church was already full. We found seats OK and after Mass we got out of the parking lot with no trouble because of where we parked.

We came home for about an hour and continued cleaning up from last night. Both tablecloths had red wine stains so I did a load of laundry. I had run the dishwasher last night so I reloaded that. Overall, we were in good shape.

Around noon we drove over to Terry and Carol's to pick them up. They had invited us to brunch at the country club. It was a very nice brunch and of course I ate too much. We sat and talked afterward then dropped them off. They invited us in but they had gone to 6:30 sunrise service so I knew they were probably eager to take a nap. I had some more to do at home so we came home.

I hope the risen Lord brings you comfort thoughout this year. He remains the reason for this season.

The Bluebonnets are Blooming

Despite the cool weather we have had, especially at night, the bluebonnets are blooming. I saw my first of the season in the median along 242. Ted said the hills around the airport are full of them. They are actually right on time so I guess Spring is really here.

I didn't do a whole lot while Ted was gone to Atlanta. Sometimes it's just nice to stay home and do little things you get behind on when life is busier. I grocery shopped and found some pillows for the couch in the family room at the shopping center. When Ted returned home, we stayed in and ate dinner at home Friday night.

Saturday I started the laundry and we went to see Abe at the wine store about what we need for next weekend. We went to church at 5 o'clock and then played bunco with the church group. We are getting to know these folks better and we had an enjoyable evening.

Sunday I finished up the laundry and put together a tray of lasagna for a funeral today. I have to bake it for one hour before delivering it to church. Unfortunately there is another funeral tomorrow so I have to go to the grocery to get something to prepare for that.

In the evening we met a group of about 20 people for dinner at Goose's Acre, an Irish pub along the waterway here in The Woodlands. This week will be busier because of the funerals and preparing for the Wine Tasting here next Saturday. Last night's weather report said rain on Saturday. Let's hope they are wrong because we really want to use the deck for the Wine Tasting. Also, Ted is grilling and I would hate for him to have to do that in the rain!

Stephen F. Austin State Park - Sealy, TX

Tommy and I have been fussing with this video trying to get it to post to my blog. I think I finally did it!

Those who know me know I'm not a big fan of campfires because of the smoke and the smell on our clothes and in the rig afterwards. However, as cold as it was, it became a necessity last weekend.

I'm happy to report we are up in the 70s with sunshine now and I hope it stays that way. What a winter this has been.

I filed my taxes, laid out a blue print for our summer trip and touched up the paint on our fence. Other than that, I've not done much the past two days. Ted went to Atlanta this morning and won't be back until Friday. I have nothing planned other than straightening some closets and doing a little shopping. I have the CWJF Gala to attend, Sam's First Communion and a wedding in Cincinnati in June. It's time I gave some thought to what I am going to wear.

You have to click on the little arrow to make the video play. Disregard Jay's remark about Stella's anatomy. She makes a great coconut cream pie!

OK, I'll End the Suspense

After talking to Susan and to Stella, we decided to brave the cold and head out to Stephen F. Austin State Park in Sealy, TX. We took I-45, the Beltway and I-10 to get there. When we pull the RV we go through Magnolia, turn south towards Waller and Brookshire and pick up I-10 for just a few exits. It's a much more enjoyable ride and cheaper since we don't have to pay any tolls. They can get expensive when you are pulling a trailer with the added axles. In fact, we came home the back way because I-10 traffic was getting heavy.

We met some new folks Gene and Linda from Austin who turned out to be terrific people. Linda took charge of lunch even though everyone brought stuff to share. We had Sloppy Joe sandwiches, sliced brisket, calico beans, home made potato salad, cole slaw, lots of appetizers and banana pudding and brownies for dessert. They had a campfire but it was still chilly in the shade, especially when the wind was blowing which was most of the time. It was nice and sunny with a clear blue sky so we just made the best of it. Tommy took some Flip Video and sent it to me but I can't get it onto the blog. I'll keep working on that. So for now you won't see me in my earmuffs and gloves!

Stella's brand new chair got blown into the fire and the top of it was burned. Before anyone could grab it there was a 6 inch round hole burned through to the foam. They looked long and hard for those particular chairs and it's a shame that happened.

We all discussed our traveling plans and when we could hook up. Susan and Tommy spend occasional months at Rayford and so do Jay and Stella. We're close enough to drop in and visit them and when time permits, we pull the RV over there to stay awhile. Our plans for going to the valley at the end of September are shaping up. We always have a good time down there and I'm anxious to show Tommy and Susan around.

After much talking and eating we decided to head back home from this beautiful park. We had intended to camp there this week but Ted is going to Atlanta Wednesday and that screwed up our plans. I had some pills to get from Stella from her drug run in Mexico after we had left them in the valley. To my surprise and delight, she had made a coconut cream pie to share with me!!!! When we go to Tony's in Sealy the portions are too big for me to have a piece of pie. We ate at Furr's three times in the valley and they never had coconut pie when I was there. I thought for sure we would go to Tony's and eat. I was determined to finally get my pieces of pie but then they said we were eating at the campground. Stella specifically told me not to stop at Tony's before coming to the campground.

She packed up half the pie and some cool whip. As soon as I got home I had a piece and shared a second piece with Ted. However, he knows that third piece is mine and I'll eat it for dessert tonight.

Thanks Stella. The pie is terrific as are you as a friend. See ya down the road!

First Day of Spring in Spring, TX - 44 degrees!

When you find Al Gore, smack him upside the head for me. Winter is never going to end this year. I was warmer in Michigan earlier in the month than I am right now. The wind is howling, the heat is on, what gives?

I had a date for a St. Patrick's Day dinner. Terry called and asked me to go to dinner with him (since Carol was in Indy and Ted was in Fort Worth) along with our friends Dave and Jody. I told him I was going to the club at 3:30 for Happy Hour and would meet him there. I arrived and he was on the balcony with Dave and Vince. I sat with all the girls in the bar as we normally do. Next thing the guys are eating sandwiches so Jody and I ordered a quesidilla to split. Around 7 we all decided we weren't hungry and everyone went home. I told Ted his brother was a lousy date and we all had some laughs over it.

Thursday was Wine Tasting at the club and we were invited by my friend Teri and a new fellow she is dating. Another widowed lady joined us as well as Terry, Dave and Jody. They serve about six different wines and little bitty portions of appetizers. They were very good but by the time the bill came I was having a hard time doing a simple math problem with the bill!

Friday night was Wind Down and I was about "wined" out. I had a glass or two then switched to iced tea. It's hard to eat appetizers on Friday in Lent unless it is shrimp, cheese dip or deviled eggs. I took the eggs and they were all eaten. But NO ONE brought a dessert. Chantal always makes one but it was at her house so she didn't need to make a dish. I was so disappointed because I love my desserts.

Yesterday we stayed home all day and went to church at 5. I put a tenderloin in the oven to start while we were in church and we ate at home then stayed in the rest of the evening.

Today we are supposed to drive to Stephen F. Austin State Park to visit with some of our camping friends but it is 39 degress and I'm not sure I want to go sit outside in this kind of weather.

I'll let you know what we decide next time.

In Loving Memory

You may recall that Ted's nephew was killed in a motorcycle accident last summer. Today, Rose, his first wife of many years and mother of his children (and our great nieces and nephew) died after a long battle with ovarian cancer. She was a gracious and forgiving person and loved by all. We are saddened by her passing but relieved she is no longer in pain. Her children have lost both parents at the young ages of 53 and 50 in a span of less than nine months. Please remember them all in your prayers.