Happy New Year

First of all we would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year.  It's hard to believe that it is going to be 2005.  How many times in the next few days will we write 2004? Bob and I have been reflecting on the past five years in our lives; so much has happened, we have grown and experienced wonderful opportunities to travel, meet and make so many interesting friends who made us laugh, learn, and live life to the fullest.  This is not to say that we don't miss our old friends and family.  We cry with each good bye.  But we believe that life for us should be a journey and our experiences of the past and the future will help us grow and enjoy the time we are given.        A custom that I always did and will do tonight is put some money in a bottle and leave it out by your door.  The theory is that you will have enough money in the coming year.  Hope it works again.   Another good custom in the past hundred years or so for people to celebrate the first few minutes of the New Year in the company of friends and family, laughing and showering each other with hugs and kisses.   This is to me the best tradition of all.    The most popular customfor  New Years is that each of us feels the need to improve something about ourselves.  I am not a big resolution person, as I usually vow to lose all my unwanted weight and be a Sports Illustrated model.  Well now I'm so old I have come to know that this will never happen, but I stillwould like to lose some weight someday!      I just want to take a moment and wish you all the best and most wonderful 2005!  Thank you for visiting my journal and sharing last year with me.  May every moment of the new year be filled with joy and prosperity.  I'm so thankful I've gotton to know you this year.  

 http://web.icq.com/friendship/swf/0,,16961_rs,00.swf

  My cup runneth over, I thank Thee, lord, each day.  As we enter the new year, think about your life.  The days slip by so quickly.  Live your life, not just getting through them.    Store up memories or yourself and those you love,  and don't work just  to attain things while letting go of relationships and sacrificing those you love.  Take stock and consider that life is short.   Wishing you all a Happy New Year this year and every year.       Dawn

Christ is born

Mary Did You Know?

Mary did you know
That your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know
That your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know
That your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered
Will soon deliver you

Mary did you know
That your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know
That your baby boy will calm the storm with his hand?
Did you know
That your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby
You've kissed the face of God

Mary did you know?
The blind will see
The deaf will hear
The dead will live again
The lame will leap
The dumb will speak
The praises of the Lamb

Mary did you know
That your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know
That your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know
That your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding
Is the Great I Am

Bet Y'all can't do this... How Smart is Your Right Foot?

This is so funny that it will boggle your mind. And you will keep trying
atleast 50 more times to see if you can outsmart your foot, but you can't.

1. While sitting at your desk, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.

2. Now, while doing this, draw the number "6" in the air with your right hand. Your foot will change direction.

I told you so ......... .. And there's nothing you can do about it!

Ho Ho Ho and happy holidays to all our journal friends.   It's the season of brotherly love and a time to give thanks for all our blessings.  Sometimes we feel sorry for ourselves with the daily goings on, things are not the way we had hoped for.  But,  if you are healthy, have loved ones, have a best friend, have food to eat and a roof over your head, then give thanks as many in this world do not share such an abundance.  

 Christmas is a magical day for kids of all ages.  But while most of America celebrates, it is a time of depression and heart ache for the homeless and hungry.  What could be more rewarding than to give to charities that will see  to these needs on Christmas Day.  

 Last, but not least send your prayers to the men and women in uniform, many serving in  foreign lands.  Pray for their  families and for their safe return home.    

 Check here for your Christmas card from Bob and I.   http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=AM16127848    

 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,  and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called wonderful Counselor, mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -Isaiah 9:6

 

Hand Painting

Isn't this just amazing?   I just had to show these hands to you all.  Happy Saturday!

"Wee wee chu"

                                                                        
One beautiful December evening Huan Cho and his girlfriend Jung Lee were sitting by the side of the ocean. It was a romantic full moon, when Huan Cho said "Hey baby, let's play Wee wee chu."

"Oh no, not now, lets look at the moon" said Jung Lee.  "Oh, c'mon baby, let's you and I play Wee wee chu. I love you and it's the perfect time," Huan Cho begged.  "But I rather just hold your hand and watch the moon."

"Please Jung Lee, just once play Wee wee chu with me."  Jung Lee looked at Huan Chi and said, "OK, we'll play Wee wee chu."

Huan Cho grabbed his guitar and they both sang.....

"Wee wee chu a Merry Christmas, Wee wee chu a Merry Christmas, Wee wee chu a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year."

AND SO DO WE!          

Odd and Ends

Hi Everyone,      Today all Christmas cards were put in the mail and all Christmas packages have been mailed.  What a relief off of my poor old mind.  Every year I tell myself I will send gift certificates next year, but then I go ahead and screw up again.  Sometimes mailing of gifts cost as much as the gift to mail.  Holy Smoly.  I also finished one of those fun fur scarfs for a friend's granddaughter (  my friend doesn't knit), another thing off my list. 

We all also done decorating and are now free to enjoy the season.

  Did anyone watch Trading Spouses tonight?   I love that show.  It's pretty funny.    

 I spent this evening looking for an  afghan pattern that I know I copied last year from the Internet.  It was a nice Irish fisherman pattern. One would think I  had lots of rooms to lose my stuff in. LOL    I guess it tells you something about me, unorganized.  

   Did anyone see the Q~Creative Advent Calendar today.   It has a recipe for Swedish Glogg.  I'll tell you one thing, when the snow is blowing and the temperatures go below freezing, hot Glogg will warm you up in a hurry.  When we lived in Massachusetts some of us would get together at Lynch Park on New Year's Day and take a very quick dunk in the ocean and the only thing that made life worth living after that is a warming drink of  Glogg.  One of the psychs used to make a batch every year.  Mumm Mumm Good, just like a Cambell soup commericial. 2004 Advent Calendar Presented by Q-Creative Multimedia

Free Meal on your Birthday

Many restaurants will give you free food or service on your birthday. Most of these will probably come with a song from the employees to embarrass the special person. This is a list of places that will give you free goods/service.    

 ALFY'S PIZZA - free mini pizza
ALL-AMERICAN CAFE - free dessert
APPLEBEES - free dessert
AUSTIN GRILL - Register First - free meal
AUTO ZONE - Free Oil Change
BAKERS SQUARE - free pie
BANDIDO'S - free entry
BANJARA INDIAN CUISINE - free meal
BASKIN ROBBINS - free ice cream treat
BEACHES RESTAURANT - free meal
BENIHANA'S JAPANESE RESTAURANT - free dinner WITH 3 other paying guests
BENNIGANS - free dessert + song
BILL KNAPP'S - gives adults a % discount equal to age; plus a free bday cake (w/purchase of a meal) during the week of your B-day
BLACK BRISKEE - free meal
BOB'S BIG BOY - free hot fudge ice cream
BUFFALO WILD WINGS (BW3) - free dozen hot wings
BURGER KING - free kids meal to all kids club members
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN - Register First - free kids meal during the month of their birthday
CAPTAIN DIZZY'S CAR WASH - free car wash
CARROWS - free cake
CATTLEMEN'S - free dessert and cowboy hat
CHARLIE BROWNS RESTAURANTS - free meal for "Handshake Club" members
CHARLIE'S SEAFOOD - free meal
CHEVY'S - free dessert and sombrero
CHILI'S - free song
CHIPS N GIGGLES - free meal
CLAIM JUMPER - Free Dessert
CRAZY BUFFET - free meal
DAVE AND BUSTERS - $5 game card credit
DENNY'S - free meal (said to be only kids under 10 now)
DESPARADOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT - free meal
DOCKSIDE RESTAURANT - free meal
DUKE'S CHOWDER HOUSE - b1g1 coupons (register first)
EINSTEIN'S - free meal
EL CHICOS - free dessert
ERNIE'S STEAKHOUSE - free meal
FAMOUS DAVE'S BARBEQUE - free meal (w/advance signup)
FUDDRUCKERS - free burger
FUNNY BONE COMEDY CLUB - free cake (party of 5 min.; 2 drink min.)
GOLDEN CORRAL - free meal to birthday Club members (not just kids!) during month of birthday
GRILLFISH - free meal
HANA JAPAN - free meal
HARD ROCK CAFE - free dessert
HOMETOWN BUFFET - free birthday cake
HOLLYWOOD VIDEO - one free video rental
HOOTERS - free song + tshirt
HOSS'S STEAK HOUSE AND RESTAURANT - free cake + song
IHOP- free meal
JOE'S CRAB SHACK - free cake
JT WHEATFIELDS - free coupon in phone book
KING BUFFET - free meal
LADONNA - free meal
LOMBARDI'S IN BALLARD - Register First - free meal w/another during month of birthday
LOTUS - free meal
LUTHERS BBQ - free stuff (varies) for "Great Rewards" members
MACARONI GRILL - free dessert + OPERA-style "Happy birthday" song
MAGGIANOS - $10 Off purchase of $20 (sign up in advance)
MARIE CALENDERS - free dessert
MAX AND ERMA - free $5 dessert
MEXICAN VILLAGE - free meal
MOONIES DINER - free meal
MUCKLESHOOT CASINO - free sushi dinner + player's club points
NEWICK'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS - free entry
NITTY GRITTY - free drink + souvenir glass
OKAYAMA RESTAURANT - free meal
OLD SPAGHETTI WAREHOUSE - free meal
OLIVE GARDEN - cake (some say free, most say $$)
ONAMI - free dinner WITH 3 other people paying
OUTBACK - free dessert + song
PANCAKE HOUSE - free entry
PAPPA'S RESTAURANTS - free dessert
PARADISO'S - free meal
PERKIN'S - free stack of pancakes
PF CHANGS - free cake or cheesecake
PIZZA EXPRESS - free meal
PONCHO'S - free meal, dessert & picture
PROVINO'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT - free $10.99 meal and ice cream dessert
Radisson - free entree in their 12th floor restaurant
REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY - free meal and dessert
RED LOBSTER - free slice of cake + song
RED ROBINS - Register First - free burger coupon / discount coupon
RICE & COMPANY - free meal for Robinson Rewards Club members
ROCK BOTTOM - free appetizer for Mug Club members
ROUND TABLE - free personal pizza
SCALINI'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT - up to 10.95 off pasta specialties
SHEPARD'S BUFFET - free dinner buffet w/3 other paid customers
STEAK AND ALE- free mini choco cake
STEAK-N-SHAKE - free dinner for "birthday club" kids
TACO BELL - free combo meal of your choice
TGI FRIDAYS - Free birthday Dessert
THE 99 - free meal
THE BARNSIDER'S/DEPOT RESTAURANTS - 1/2 off meal + cake & song
THE LOFT - free meal
THE PALM - 3lb lobster (must be a member/register first)
THE PARADISO - free entry + sombrero & song
THE VINE TAVERN - free meal
TODAI SEAFOOD BUFFET - Free Meal or voucher for Meal Next Visit
TONY ROMA'S - free dessert
UP THE CREEK - free meal and dessert
VACCARO'S ITALIAN PASTRY SHOP - free dessert and drink
WENDY'S - free kids meal to all kids club members
Z' TEJAS - Register First - $15 coupon for the month of your birthday
ZIO'S - free dessert

Gift Suggestions

THE BEST GIFTS 

  To a Friend..................................................Loyalty

To an Enemy...............................................Forgiveness

To your  Boss..............................................Service

To your child................................................A good example To your father..............................................Honor

To your mother............................................Gratitude and Devotion

To your Spouse...........................................Love and Faithfulness

To yourself....................................................Respect

To all men....................................................Charity

To God.........................................................Your Life!!   From Wanda's Country Home

 

I Love Mondays

I guess I walk to the tune of a different drummer.  I just love Monday!

  The reason is a selfish one.  It's is the only day of the week that both Bob and I have nothing scheduled for the entire day and evening.  We can do whatever we want,  Sometime we shop, go to the movies,  or sightseeing.  

 Today we are going to check out a store that opened here a few weeks ago named Ikea.   The first week they were open there were lines every day.  Hopefully we will not run into this today.

  They advertise a "thousands of ways  to make your home you" and their catalog is chock full of interesting pieces.   In the store there is a restaurant and a child care or play yard.  I'll let you know how we made out later.  

   IKEA | home | IKEA, furniture, kitchens, beds, chairs, sofas, decorations  

 Last night I came in third in cribbage, this was the first time I won anything this year in crib.  After crib, we went over to friends house for coffee and a delicious cherry cake.    We were so bad yesterday.  Our friends Mary and Chuck brought us over some yummy chocolate cake yesterday too and we gobbled it right up! 

 I will never be a size 9.  To thin anyway. LOL   Well, I had better get going here.  Catch you later.  

19 days till Christmas!!

A Celebration of Christmas

Last night we went to see "A Celebration of Christmas" in Phoenix.   It was spectacular.  There was a cast of 6oo and the beautiful  Christmas tree on stage throughout the evening, was 40 feet high and held the choir.  Taking clear pictures was difficult  because of the laser lighting show.  They had live camels, zebras, donkeys and even an elephant.   There were wonderful flying angels, full orchestra, and costumes were elegant.    I wish the pictures were better.

Advent Calendar

  23 Days to Christmas   Are you ready?    I'm not.  Every year I tell myself that I will get it all done before Thanksgiving.  Ya right!  Anyway, I did find a nice advent calendar.  Just click on the number daily and when the small picture appears, click on it.  It's pretty cool.  Hope you enjoy it.  

       2004 Advent Calendar Presented by Q-Creative Multimedia  

Here's the Red Hatters

Well, here we are.  Our first gathering was at the Landmark Restaurant and it went off very well.  I think I was the only one that knew all the others, but it  didn't seem to matter.   We have three more gals coming in next month which will be a total of 12. 

  We are calling ourselves "The Sweet Violets."  Anyone remember that old song?  

 This month I am the Queen Mum so I have been practicing my Queenly wave, arm bent at the elbow, hand cupped slowly swiveling back and forth.  I wish you could see how nicely I do this.  I was born to do this!!!!

Sweet Violets
Sweeter than the roses
Covered all over from head to toe
Covered all over with sweet violets

There once was a farmer who took a young miss
In back of the barn where he gave her a lecture
On horses and chickens and eggs
And told her that she had such beautiful
Manners that suited a girl of her charms
A girl that he wanted to take in his
Washing and ironing and then if she did
They could get married and raise lots of
Sweet violets
Sweeter than the roses
Covered all over from head to toe
Covered all over with sweet violets

The girl told the farmer that he'd better stop
And she call her father and he called a
Taxi and got there before very long
'Cause some one was doin' his little girl
Right for a change and so that's why he said
If you marry her son, you're better off single
'Cause it's always been my belief
Marriage will bring a man nothing but
Sweet Violets
Sweeter than the roses
Covered all over from head to toe
Covered all over with sweet violets

The farmer decided he wed anyway
And started in planning for his wedding
Suit which he purchased for only one buck
But then he found out he was just out of
Money and so he got left in the lurch
A standin' and waitin' in front of the
End of the story which just goes to show
All a girl wants from a man is his
Sweet Violets
Sweeter than the roses
Covered all over from head to toe
Covered all over with sweet violets

 

Red Hat Society

Two weeks ago my friends Mary and Joyce and I deceided to form a Red Hat Group.   Today will be our first lunch.  We will try to keep it to a group of fun lovin gals with like to play dress up.  

The Red Hat Society  seemed to start with a poem by Jenny Joseph that goes something like this, " When I am a old women, I shall wear purple with a red hat that doesn't go and doesn't suit me..." I shall go out in my slippers in others peoples gardens and learn to spit."   It started out with just a few women who wanted to take on middle age with energy and enthusiam, but now this new organization or what some call dis-organization is taking over the country, and more than 400-thousand women are involved.  

I'll let you know later how it went.          Dawn                              www.redhatsociety.com

VERY INTERESTING MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here is Arizona we have what many called "America's toughest sheriff" Joe Arpaio.   He is a colorful and controversial character who has instituted severe policies at Phoenix's Maricopa County Jail since taking office in 1993.

  Sheriff Joe created the tent city jail, has jail meals down to 40 cents a serving and charges the inmates for them. He stopped smoking and porno magazines in the jails.  Took away their weights.  Cut off all but "G" movies.  He started chain gangs so the inmates could do free work on county and city projects. Then he started chain gangs for women so he wouldn't get sued for discrimination.

 He then took away cable TV until he found out there was a federal order that required cable TV  for jails.  So he hooked up the cable again only let in the Disney channel and the weather channel.

When asked why the weather channel he replied, so that they will know how hot it's gonna be while they are working on my chain gangs. He cut off coffee since it has zero nutritional value.  When the inmates complained, he told them, "This isn't the Ritz Carlton.  If you don't like it, don't come back." He brought Newt Gingrich's lecture series videotape that he pipes into the jails.  When asked by a reporter if he had any lecture series by a Democrat, he replied that a democratic lecture series might explain why a lot of the inmates were in his jails in the first place. He also has a "Vacancy" sign up so that people know he will always have room to book arrestees.

Joe has all inmates  wearing pink undershorts and sox, he feels there will be less theft with the pink.  Last summer when he received complaints of heat from the inmates, he told them: "It's 120 degrees in Iraq and our soldiers are living in tents too, and they have to wear full battle gear, but they didn't commit any crimes, so shut your damned mouths!"

What do you think? 

Here is a link to Sherrif Joe's site.       http://www.mcso.org/

THANKSGIVING

We had a very nice  Thanksgiving dinner with a few close friends, 272 to be exact.  Not what you might call intimate dinner group, but non the less a friendly group.  

 We are each others extended family for the winter.  We came from all over the country and Canada, to enjoy the sunny weather of Arizona for a few months.   We make jokes about the snow areas, especially our own, and say "better them than us."  What a group we are.  We walk, ride bikes, play cards, dance, go to shows.  Volunteer, and thank God for our blessings.  We just plain enjoy each other.    

Christmas is another story.  It seems to be much harder to be away from your family on Christmas.   I personal dread it.  Every time I hear "I'll Be Home For Christmas" the tears start flowing, but with a little help from my friends I'll get through it.

Thank you for the world so sweet,

Thank you for the food we eat.

Thank you for the birds that sing,

Thank you God for everything.

           

'TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING, BUT I COULDN'T SLEEP.
I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS, I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP.
THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED - THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE
BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT.

TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION
THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION
SO I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR
AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIES GALORE.   I GOBBLED UPTURKEYAND BUTTERED POTATOES,
PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES
I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND,
'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THE GROUND.

I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, FLOATING INTO THE SKY
WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE.
BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES....
HAPPY EATING TO ALL -- PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE.

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY, MAY YOURTURKEYBE PLUMP,
MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP,
MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS And YOUR PIES TAKE A PRIZE,
MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS  

 We wish you all a Happy, memory filled Thanksgiving Day                                    

Cancer took my friend today

    Cancer took my friend today   Her name was June.  We worked together a number of years before her retirement.  She was one of those people who wore a mask to hide her sorrows.  June was a single mother who struggled with finances all her life, but was always ready for a laugh, share a joke or dance to her favorite Frank Sinatra  music , New York, New York.

When we went home this past summer June was in a rehab with a broken hip.  Within two weeks she was home and taking care  of herself.  

 I was able to call her weekly but had I not  known she was ill, I never would have suspected it.  She was always upbeat and more interested on where we were and what we were doing.  I will miss our chats.  Tomorrow would have been her  birthday.

 Rest in peace my friend.  I will never forget you.

   
I Did Not Die

Do not stand at my grave and forever weep.
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and forever cry.
I am not there. I did not die.

Melinda Sue Pacho

I'm a collector of sorts!

I am a collector of things and I bet you are all too.  Now that we are on the road I have given up things but collect sites on the internet. We all have our favorite sites other than journals, that we visit regulary.  I think it will be  interest to share ours with each other.  Here is a small sampleing of my.

  SMARTEE Refdesk: reference, facts, news, free and family friendly    Library Subject Index    GovSpot.com: US government, state government, Congress, government jobs & more.    Grassroots Lobbying  

 COMPUTER / WEB    Mr. Ed's E-Mail Bracket Stripper v3.0     The Computer Lady - Tips & Troubleshooting For Computer Problems.      Vmyths.com- Truth About Computer Virus Myths & Hoaxes  

MEDICAL   The New England Journal of Medicine:   Research & Review Articles on Diseases & Clinical Practice   Food and Drug Administration Home Page

  ODDS & ENDS The Why Files
  Top Secret Recipes on the Web 

  FORUMS   Open Roads Forum   Fabulous Forums   That Home Site! Forums  

Thought For The Day

 People who drink light "beer" don't really like beer, they just like to pee a lot.    Have a happy day.

Buttons

  I found my buttons!!!!!

I'm Sorry Again For This Mess

I know I'm not a computer genius, but I try to keep it a little better than the last few entries.   GUESS WHAT?   My " Edit Jounal" button is missing.   Now where could they have gone OR maybe somone took them!  Hummmmm.   If anyone has a suggestion or have seen my buttons, return them immediately.

Trees

Here is Arizona there isn't a lot of greenery about.  When you pass a building that has grass it stands out.  Lots of palm trees and saguaro cactus, but no willows, pine trees, oak, or maple. When we went home last summer  the amount of trees sometime seemed overwhelding to us.  We have become used to the wide open spaces of the west.  

 Joyce Kilmer. 1886–1918  

      Trees

 I THINK that I shall never see  

A poem lovely as a tree.    

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest  

Against the sweet earth's flowing breast;

 A tree that looks at God all day,          

 And lifts her leafy arms to pray; 

 A tree that may in summer wear

  A nest of robins in her hair;     

 Upon whose bosom snow has lain;  

Who intimately lives with rain.      

 Poems are made by fools like me,  

But only God can make a tree.

The Polar Express

 Today we went with friends Mary and Chuck to the 3-D Imax theater to see " The Polar Express". 

For those of you who have seen an Imax movie, then you know that it is an experience and today's movie was not disappointing.   Based on Chris Van Allsburg's best selling chalderns classic about a boy doubting if Santa Claus was real.  

 On  Christmas Eve, a boy boards a train called the Polar Express that is bound for the North Pole.  When the train reaches the  Pole, Santa chooses one of the children on board to receive the first gift of Christmas.  He chooses the boy, who asks for a bell from the raindeer's harness.  On the trip home, the boy loses the bell.  However, he gets it back wrapped up in a gift under the tree.  He and his sister can hear the beautiful sound the bell makes, but his parents cannot.

Tom Hanks plays  the conductor, the boy, the boys father, a hobo, and  Santa.  

At times it is almost impossible to take your eyes off the screen when the train goes on a wild ride through plunging  rails, or the children trying to retrieve a lost ticket on the trains roof.  Some of the heights made me dizzy and I found myself looking away momentarily.   There are lessons for the kids to  learn  here about leadership, trust, humility and ?  

Let It Snow, Let It Snow!

 My friend Carol called me today from Massachusetts.  She said that she had been thinking about me today as she was shoveling five inches of snow.  She didn't say what kind of thought she had about me, but I can just guess by the remarks she was making.  She would not let me tell her about the warm sun shining  day we were having.  Some people are just so self centered!

I was reading the Old Farmers Almanac today on line.  It is packed with all sorts of helpful information.  It had the expected weather forecast for the country, astrology, gardening, crafts, recipes and a forum.

Weather Folklore from the Farmers Almanac

If the geese on St. Martin's Day (November 11) stand on ice, they will walk in mud at Christmas.

If the first snow sticks to the trees, it foretells a bountiful harvest.

If sheep feed facing downhill, watch for a snowstorm.

If on All Saints Day the beech acorn is dry we will stick behind the stove in winter, but if it is wet and not light the winter will not be dry, but wet.

Thunder in November indicates a fertile year to come.

If there be ice in November that will bear a duck, there will be nothing thereafter but sleet and muck.

As November 21st, so the winter.

When the winter is early, it will not be late.

Lengthened winter and tardy spring are both good for hay and grain, but bad for corn and garden.

December changeable and mild, the whole winter will remain a child.

A warm Christmas, a cold Easter.

A green Christmas, a white Easter.

December cold, with snow, brings rye everywhere.

The Old Farmer's Almanac - Home Page

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Today is the day that our country has set aside to remember the men and women who have served in peace and war, to those who are still serving today, and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Today's Family First site looks at one that all veterans may be interested in.

The site is the Department of Veterans Affairs, the official site of this government agency. Here is a great place for any veteran of any service to find information about their rights and benefits that are theirs. There is information here about disabled, homeless, minority, and women veterans, as well as vocational rehabilitation and employment services. This department has recently been elevated to Cabinet level status, recognizing the sacrifices Americans have made for their country.

Take some time today to remember relatives and friends who have served and are still serving. It is through their efforts that this truly is the land of the free and the home of the brave.

http://www.va.gov/

Veterans Day

 

 

       Gif from "Kevs Gifs Galore" 

                                
                            America still soars,

                            proud, strong and free.

                            Thanks to those who

                            unselfishly served her.  

Thank you Veterans,
for all you have given this country.  

 http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=MQ11392375                                        

Thought of the Day

Thought of the Day Anybody going slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac.      

 

Here's a cute 20 question game.      

Click here: 20Q.net   You think of an object and the A.I. will try to figure-out what you are thinking by asking simple questions. The object you think of should be something that most people would know about, but, never a specific person, place or thing. "A cat" is a good object, but "Pepper," my cat, would be a bad choice. You may answer Unknown to any question, especially if you do not understand the question or do not know the answer.  

 

Here is our calendar if you want to see what we are up to.

ADLessor's Calendar     Sorry, I guess this doesn't show mine.   DAH

Returning Friends

Mesa Arizona has each winter a sizable winter population increase and we are happy to be among them.  Sitting out in the evening, we can see  a parade of planes coming into  the Phoenix airport.  They are coming in from all over the country. When we first wintered here five years ago we didn't know  anyone.  Now that has changed.  We stay in a resort with 1100 other residents, 55 or older. These strangers now have become close friends.  Most of us come and go (Nov.-Apr), and like separated lovers, we rejoice at seeing each other again.  All around the park we are greeted with hugs and hearing "Glad to see you back."  It's a warm welcome.   And before we know it, were back to our old habits like Sunday night it's cribbage, Monday, it's whist, Tues. is pot luck, Wed is the country store, Thursday is our happy hour with the neighbors, Fri is bingo, and finally the weekend.  On Sat mornings we volunteer with the breakfast crew.  You would be surprised how quickly you can feed that many people!  The clubs have started up, the pools are ready, and the dances have began.   When we are here we keep close attention to our calendar as it is absolutely filled up.   We are up for the winter dance and will rest in the spring.

Thought for the day

There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra than on
Alzheimer's research. This means that by 2030, there should be a large
elderly population with perky boobs and huge erections and absolutely no
recollection of what to do with them.

MEXICO'S DAYS OF THE DEAD - DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

Art by Patrick Murillo

Today, Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico and in certain parts of the United States and Central America.  It is not a morbid occasion, but rather a festive time.  In rural Mexico, people visit the cemetery where their ones are buried. They decorate gravesites with marigold flowers and candles. They bring toys for dead children and bottles of tequila to adults. They sit on picnic blankets next to gravesites and eat the favorite food of their loved ones.   In the United States and in Mexico's larger cities, families build altars in their homes, dedicating them to the dead. They surround these altars with flowers, food and pictures of the deceased. They light candles and place them next to the altar  

Traditionally, the flowers used are marigolds, and the incense used on the altar is copal, the resin from a particular tree. Like moles and chile-laced dishes prepared for some of the ancestors, the flowers are quite aromatic and the copal has a distinctive smell.

The aromas are used or consumed by the spirits, which, like the scents, can't be seen. The foods are eaten (or given away) by the living later, after their essence has been consumed.

 

 

An intresting Salem message board. http://www.salemweb.com/cgi-bin

  HAUNTED HAPPENINGS   SALEM, MASSACHUSETTES  

 

 

For years Bob and I celebrated Halloween in Salem Massachusetts, the home of the Haunted Happenings.  People visit here from all over the country to the bewitching seaport, for three weeks of celebration.     The Salem Witch museum  deals with the Witch Hysteria of 1692, as  witchs are a big attraction here, as well as goblins and ghosts.   Another fun take is the Vampire and Ghost Tour with a ghost hunter and supernatual expert.  Visitors are encouraged to bring camera to take their own ghost pictures.  Many people have had strange and terrifying encounters with ghost on this tour, including fainting, crying, and all sorts of spooky things.   Haunted  Happenings will keep you entertained 24 hours a day with  activities for adults and children with food festivals, pumkin contest of all sorts, pie eating, psychic fairs, intriguing shops,  and just people watching.   This happening draws an interesting group of people.  As the big day arrives people tend to wear costumes everywhere.  This sight alone is worth the trip.   On Halloween night the party finishes off with a costumed ball or better know as the Witches Ball.  Witchs and Warlords come from everywhere to attend.  There is always a crowd near the ball entrance to see all the unusual costumes.       Laurie Cabot is the self proclaimed city's official witch.  She operates a small shop selling all types of potions and spells kits.   Below is Laurie's witch shop. WWW.LaurieCabot.com  

 

 An intresting Salem message board.          http://www.salemweb.com/cgi-bin/discus/discus.cgi  

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=WX10270609

THe above is a card for you.

With Halloween upon us, it is worthwhile to remember a few simple rules
to help keep this season healthy, happy and SAFE!

Please use these helpful hints this and every year!!

1. When it appears that you have killed the monster, NEVER check to see
if it's really dead.
2. Never read a book of demon summoning aloud, even as a joke.
3. Do not search the basement, especially if the power has gone out.
4. If your children speak to you in Latin or any other language which
they should not know, SHOOT them immediately. It will save you a lot of
grief in the long run. However, it will probably take several rounds to
kill them, so be prepared. This also applies to kids who speak with
somebody else's voice.
5. When you have the benefit of numbers, NEVER pair off and go alone.
6. As a general rule, don't solve puzzles that open portals to Hell.
7. Never stand in, on, or above a grave, tomb, or crypt. This would
apply to any other house of the dead as well.
8. If you're searching for something which caused a loud noise and find
out that it's just the cat, GET THE HELL OUT!
9. If appliances start operating by themselves, do not check for short
circuits; just get out.
10. Do not take ANYTHING from the dead.
11. If you find a town which looks deserted, there's probably a good
reason for it. Don't stop and look around.
12. Don't fool with recombinant DNA technology unless you're sure you
know what you're doing.
13. If you're running from the monster, expect to trip or fall down at
least twice, more if you are female. Also note that, despite the fact
that you are running and the monster is merely shambling along, it's
still moving fast enough to catch up with you.
14. If your companions suddenly begin to exhibit uncharacteristic
behavior such as hissing, fascination for blood, glowing eyes,
increasing hairiness, and so on, kill them immediately.
15. Stay away from certain geographical locations, some of which are
listed here: Amityville, Elm Street, Transylvania, Nilbog (you're in
trouble if yourecognize this one), anywhere in Texas where chainsaws
are sold, the Bermuda Triangle, or any small town in Maine.
16. If your car runs out of gas at night on a lonely road, do not go to
the nearby deserted-looking house to phone for help. If you think that
it is strange you ran out of gas because you thought you had most of a
tank, shoot yourself instead. You are going to die anyway, and most
likely be eaten.
17. Beware of strangers bearing tools. For example: chainsaws, staple
guns, hedge trimmers, electric carving knives, combines, lawnmowers,
butane torches, soldering irons, band saws, or any devices made from
deceased companions.
18. If you find that your house is built upon a cemetery, now is the
time to move in with the in-laws. This also applies to houses that had
previous inhabitants who went mad or committed suicide or died in some
horrible fashion, or had inhabitants who performed satanic practices.
19. Dress appropriately. When investigating a noise downstairs in an old
house, women should not wear a flimsy negligee. And carry a flashlight,
not a candle.
20. Do not mention the names of demons around open flames, as these can
flare suddenly. Be especially careful of fireplaces in this regard.
21. Do not go looking for witches in the Maryland countryside.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!   

Hookah Bars

     It's the latest hot spot for the college crowd in Tempe Arizona, and they are called hookah bars or restaurants. They say it's a legl buzz and beats cigarettes.  Most locations  offer about twenty tobacco flavors from fruity to cappuccino.   Hookah bars have been around for a few  years in the  U.S., popping up in Las Vegas, New Orleans and San Diego.  

 Many  hookah smokers think it is safer than cigarettes because the percentage of tobacco in the product smoked is low.   But they're wrong, according to the American Cancer Society.  They report that all tobacco products contain nicotine, and it is not "safe" in any amount or form.

  More information found here: 

http://www.discoverhookah.com  

http://www.hookahinfo.com/glass-hookah.html

And GOD said " Let the curse be lifted".

The curse has been broken, The Red Sox beat the N.Y. Yankees  10-3.

  Boston knows how to pahty ( party) and I wish I were there tonight. The lobstahs (lobsters)  are in the pot, the pahty plattas ( platters) have been orded ( ordered) and the beah (beer) has been picked up at the packie ( package store)   Let the pahties begin.   

  We are going to the Word Series.   Yaaaaaaaa

Game 6

Well, here go.  Game 6 has started.  My friend IM'ed me from Massachusetts and said they were ready for the game.  The shrine was set up, had beer, had hope and valium. LOL   We must win tonight to stay alive.

We did it.  The first team to be down 3 games and come right back in their face for a 4-2 win.    Ya Hoo    We are now 3 games each.  Tomorrow night will tell the story, hopefully with a happy ending.

     GO SOX

Sox takes game 5

David Ortiz (right) pushed across the winning run for the second straight night. (Amy Sancetta/AP)  

 After five hours, in the twelfth inning the Sox earned the trip to Yankee stadium, New York City, with a 5-3 win.   Next game is tomorrow night.     GO SOX   

Red Sox finally won!!!!

Well it took them 12 innings to win, but they won a game, 6-4.  It was exhausting to watch, and we didn't give them Yankees a clean sweep. YAH.   BUT I think the curse is still lingering for Boston.  We''ll see what tonight brings.

Back in Good Life

   Ahhh,  we are  back  in Mesa AZ. for the winter and so happy to be here.  The temperature is in the 90's with a cold front promised in a few days to brings us to a chilling 80's !!!

  It's great fun meeting up with our winter friends Mary , Chuck, Inez, both of them and Orbie.   Within the next  two or three weeks, the population will increase 60%.  After the holidays, everyone will be back.  There is a family connection here and each arriving guest is greeted with hugs and welcome backs. " Glad to see you " is heard all over the park.  

 Nov. 1st all the activities will be in full force and we will all be off and running to our favorite programs.  I enjoy the crafts, swimming, playing pool, the shows and card playing.   Pretty much everyone here volunteers for something.  I am assistant to the cribbage group and work the Saturday breakfast. This year I will also be collecting  tickets taken at some of the  activities.  

When I think of Arizona I think of saguaro cactus, the canyons, good friends, a busy calendar and Mexican food that will, as the paper said today, that will burn your socks off.  

 Red Sox game rained out last night.   Boo Hoo.  

Have a good weekend.   

Please tell me there is no such thing as a curse.

Red Sox rally falls just short Mariano Rivera showed up just in time to save the New York Yankees. Rivera got Kevin Millar to pop out to strand the tying run at third base in the eighth inning, then finished out a thrilling 10-7 win for the Yankees in Tuesday night's opener of the AL championship series. (AP)

GO RED SOX

The Curse of the Bambino

 

 

 

 

(Globe Staff Photo / Barry Chin)

Ortiz is greeted by a mob at home plate, beginning the team celebration, which would last long into the night and is  probably still going on in beantown.    The team has a few days off before they meet the hated New York Yankees.   Only time  will tell if this  will be our year.  

 The next question that always comes up is will the sox end the Curse of the Bambino?   The sox have not won  a World Series  since 1918, before that terrible trade  of  Babe to the Yanks.

  HBO Online: HBO Special Events: The Curse of the Bambino  

http://www.bambinoscurse.com/whatis/#wiLegend  

 "Take me out to the ball game,
Take me out with the crowd.
Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,
I don't care if I never get back,
Let me root, root, root for the home team,
If they don't win it's a shame.
For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out,
At the old ball game."   GO RED SOXS

Gold Canyon RV & Golf Resort

  Well , we are back in Arizona at a new park to us, about 30 miles from Mesa.  We are planning on staying here until the 15th of Oct, and then going to the Good Life RV Resort in Mesa.  

 This Gold Canyon  park is part of   the Sonoran desert with a background of the beautiful Supersition mountains.  The weather here is still in the 90's and sunny every day.  The sunsets are unforgettable and free every night. LOL  

Bob is in his glory because it offers a nine hole ecutive golf course., which is being reseeded next week.  Now  what that  means to Bob is that golf is free until then.  What a bennie!  He has been teeing off every morning at 7AM., before it gets to hot.  

 Besides the above they have tennis courts, two pools, two jacuzzis, card and game rooms , billiards, a ballroom and every kind crafts clubs.  It is luxuary living for the over 55 group, and right now the snow birds have not arrived and it's our playground.

  About.com: http://www.goldcanyonrvresort.com/

I've Always Loved Cowboys

  Monday we went to historic Tombstone, AZ., "The Town Too Tough To Die".    Tombstone  is indeed alive and full of old West vigor.   Lots to see and shops to visit.  Gun fights daily at the OK Corral , which  was the most famous gunfight to ever occur in western lore,  and then lunch at the Big Nose Kate Saloon.  Big Nose Kate ( so named for her snooping ways ) was the gal that loved Doc Holiday-and everyone else too.  

  Next we visited  the famous Boothill cemetery just north of  Tombstone.    It goes without saying that the name came from so many of the dead died with their boots on.  This is Tombstones original graveyard used from 1879-1884.  

 Big Nose Kate, The Shady Ladies and The 1880's Bordellos  

   My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys  

   Tombstone Arizona History - Boothill

Good Motto to Live By

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways,Champagne in one hand - strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming WOO HOO - What a Ride!"  

Deming, NM

We are in The Dream Catcher RV Park in Deming, NM.   Good phone signal, but very slow.   I have some great pictures of the missions in El Paso, but am unable to load them up here.  We will be tucked in for the winter  on the 15th.  That means a real telephone line, which for me suggests a little more speed on the web.

Yesterday when we were getting ready to leave El Paso Bob saw a motor home with Massachusetts plates on it and went over to investagate.    Guess what?  It was a classmate of Bobs from Salem High.  Small world again.  They made plans to meet up for dinner in Az the first of the year.

Our next stop will be Benson Az.  One place we want to visit while there is Tombstone.  We will be here till Monday probably.  Have a good week-end.

The National Border Patrol Museum, El Paso, Texas

The first thing we noticed as we drove up to the border patrol museum was that the American flag was at half mast, remembering the two agents that were killed this month.  In todays age we must all respect the work that these brave men and women do every day.  These agents work tirelessly to secure and protect the external boundaries of the United States and have done so since 1904.  

 The museum exhibits equipment, photos and documents that recapture the adventure of the early patrol and depict current  operations in various sectors of the U.S.  The museum has home made boats that smugglers have used  and false gas tanks that were used to hid drugs coming across our borders.  People smugglers use boats like the one pictured above to ferry people across the Rio Grande River near Laredo, TX.  The boat was made from two truck hoods welded together.  Two passengers would have to row it across. The average cost per person to ride in this boat is $500.

As far as we are concerned, we agree with the mseum that says the museum is one of  El Paso's best kept secrets.  

http://www.borderpatrolmuseum.com/

The Escapees RV Club

Tonight I was planning on putting in a few pictures from San Antonio area and of El Paso.   But my cell phone connection is so slow, it won't allow any pictures,  so I'll save them for another day.

  The parking we are leaving today is a membership park  run by the Escapees RV  Club, called Rainbow's End, and is the national headquarters.  There are over 84,000 members   The Escapee Club 0ffers  total support  for the RV'er and especially for the full timer.  For the full timer like ourselves it offers a legal mailing address which in itself gives us voting privilages.  Its home is the great state of Texas, which offers no state income tax, another bennie for us.  We registar our vehicles here and purchase our insurance,  and with an address can get Direct TV here.   If we get called for jury duty, the town knows the skip address and takes an understanding position if we don't show up.   Many of us don't  know we have pulled duty until we send for our next mail transfer.  We call at once and are told to stop in at the courthouse the next time we are in town and maybe they will use us then.    Some other great benefits are a magazine with great hints and places to see section, rallies, mail forwarding, dry camping at Escapee parks, lifetime sites if needed when you are ready to hang up those keys, emergency road service, and a adult care center program.   Escapee  Care Program is a one of a kind program that allows members to remain in their own RV while they recover from surgery or illness  at a special facility staffed with professional help.  There is no entrance fee to this nonprofit, tax -exempt  service.  

A sign on  I-10 in Texas we just past.   "Think Big, Your in Texas now"    Texas as been very good to us and we are proud to be here.

A bit of Texas political humor

Subject: A bit of  Texas political humor

Please note that Texas is the only state with a legal right to secede from
the  Union (refer to the Texas-American Annexation Treaty of 1848).

Dear  America,

We Texans love y'all, but we'll have to take action IF Kerry wins the
presidency over Bush. We'll miss you too.

Texas has given all those complainers plenty of time to get used to the
results. After seeing the whiners along the campaign route, the folks from
Texas are considering taking matters into our/their hands.

Here is our solution:

#1: Let John Kerry become President of the  United States. (All the other
49
states.)

#2: George W. Bush becomes the President of the Republic Of Texas. So what
does Texas have to do to survive as a Republic???

1. NASA is just south of  Houston,  Texas. (We will control the space
industry.)

2. We refine over 85% of the gasoline in the United States.

3. Defense Industry (We have over 65% of it). The term "Don't mess with
Texas," will take on
a whole new meaning.

4. Oil - we can supply all the oil that the Republic of Texas will need for
the next 300 years. Yankee states. Sorry about that.

5. Natural Gas - Again we have all we need and it's too bad about those
northern states. John Kerry will figure a way to keep them warm....

6. Computer Industry - We currently lead the nation in producing computer
chips and communications: Small places like Texas Instruments, Dell
Computer, EDS, Raytheon, National Semiconductor, Motorola, Intel, AMD,
Atmel, Applied Materials, Ball Semiconductor, Dallas
Semiconductor, Delphi, Nortel, Alcatel, Etc., Etc. The list goes on and on.

7. Health Centers - We have the largest research centers for Cancer
research, the best Burn Centers, the top trauma units in the world, and
other large health planning centers.

8. We have enough colleges to keep us going: UT Texas, A&M, Texas Tech,
Rice, SMU, University of Houston, Baylor, UNT, Texas Women's University,
Ivy
grows better in the South anyway

9. We have a ready supply of workers. (We'll just open the border, when we
need some more)

10. We have control of the paper industry, plastics, insurance, etc.

11. In case of foreign invasion, we have the Texas National Guard and the
Texas Air National Guard. We don't have an army, but since everybody down
here has at least six rifles and a pile of ammo, we can raise an army in 24
hours if we need it. If the situation really gets bad, we can always
call Department of Public Safety and ask them to send over a couple of
Texas
Rangers
(Their proven 100 year motto; "One Riot, One Ranger").

12. We are totally self sufficient in beef, poultry, hogs and several types
of grain, fruit and vegetables and lets not forget seafood from the gulf.
And everybody down here knows how to cook them so that they taste good.
Don't need any food.

This just names a few of the items that will keep the  Republic of Texas in
good shape. There isn't a thing out there that we need and don't have.

Now to the rest of the United States, under "President" Kerry: Since you
won't have the refineries to get gas for your cars, only "President" Kerry
will be able to drive around in his 9 mile per gallon SUV. The rest of the 
United States will have to walk or ride bikes.

You won't have any TV, as our  Houston  Space  Center will cut off your
communications. You won't have any natural gas to heat your homes, but
since
Kerry has predicted global warming, you will not need the gas.

Signed, The People in Texas

PS,
Y'all have a nice day

DancingBush.com

 

Texas

We had planned to go to Slidell, Al. when we left the Gulf Coast.    But as you may know, we had to evacuate because of Ivan.  My forever friend  Carol's  son, Danny  is a Chief in the Navy and is stationed there.  Bob and Danny were to play golf for bragging rights.  We called Dan and told him that we were not going to stop there, but continue inland to Livingston, Texas.  Two hours later Dan called us back with the news that he and his sons Matt and John were also being evacuated.   His wife Lisa is a nurse and has manadtory duty at the hospital.    Although we missed Lisa, we had a good reunion with Dan and the boys for four days.  It was very quite when they left.

  We'll be staying here a few more days, having our vehicles inspected and filing for an absent ballets.   Next adventure, San Antonio, Texas.

Louisiana

Tonighy we are in Lafayette, LA,    The campground brochere says "Laissez le bon temp rouler", Let the good times roll.  We are not planning on staying here to see anything roll, even good times.  Ivan is still on our path.  

 Tomorrow we will go into Texas, our adopted home.  We will sleep secure and safe tomorrow night and not worry about moving again.   

 Yesterday we took a ride to the Delphane Jubilee Festival.   It was an arts and crafts festival featuring a unique variety of more than 120 exhibitors from throughout the Southeast.  They also had a fine selection of southern food. In the center of town, in the park, people rested,  ate, socialized and enjoyed the coolness of the trees and listened to the entertainment.  Delphane seems to be  such a nice small community.  To get there on Rt. 98, we drove into the main street on a road about  a half a mile long at least.  All along there were large flags in the ground and yellow ribbons in-between them.  Lots of signs say "We support our troops."  Nice feeling to the town.  

Next we stopped at the Fairhope Municipal pier and watched fisherman netting a fish called mullet.  We were not familiar with this fish but were told they are not caught with a rod, only by netting.  They run in schools usually and when you get a hit, you usually get more than one.  There were three  fisherman trying their luck out today, and all were willing to tell us all about netting mullets.      Good day.

We're Out of Here

It looks like Ivan is coming this way, So    We are out of here.   Catch you all later.

A Day To Remeber

                              

Today is the third anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, a day for remembering those who were lost.   We should also pause to remember the way we, as a nation, came together to help each other when help was needed.  

 As we continue to deploy our fellow Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines to contribute to the war on terrorism, let us also remember why we fight. We fight for the freedom of all people. We fight for liberty. We fight for justice. And we fight to make our world a better place for our children.  

 God Bless America

 

Gulf of Mexico

There is something about the  Alabama Gulf Coast that keeps calling us back whenever we are in the area.  Squeezed between Mississippi and Florida's panhandle, Alabama only manages to dip its big toe in the Gulf of Mexico, but it's big enough for us.

 We are hoping to stay at least a week, but  hurricane Ivan will make that decision for us.  

 The coast here has only 32 miles of beaches, but activities are plentiful along this span.   The beaches are clean and plentiful.  Along the route are wonderful shops and restaurants.  The golf course are beautiflied groomed and often empty.  For me, relaxing on the beach is first the thing to do.  I'm off now to catch the tide.

Catch you all later.

This and That

Well, as of yesterday we are one of 4 RV's in the whole campground.   We can have any water front site we want.  No need for a reservation.  Labor Day is over, and everyone has gone home, except us and Frances.  He is very gentle now, having  left his line of destruction behind him in Florida and southern Georgia..  We have lucked out again.  We know someone is watching over us.  When we woke this morning there was no electricity in the park.  400 thousand Georgia customers were in the same boat as we were.  But as we sat down for coffee, on it came. From now on until we get to Arizona there will plenty of sites where we go and no long lines to any attractions. This is one of our favorite times of the year to travel.  We purposely sleep a little later so as not to make any of you late for work!  LOL

  I found a site that with just a daily click you can help feed an animal in need.. Let's break a record and pass this on.   The Animal Rescue Site : Feed an Animal in Need  

If it doesn't rain tomorrow, we will be leaving Georgia, heading for Alabama and the Gulf shore for a week or so. That is providing  hurricane Ivan doesn't spoil our plans.  

Sorry  I haven't posted any pictures, but I need to download the album program and the cell connection I am using now is just to slow.     Catch  you all later.

Labor Day

HAPPY LABOR DAY WEEKEND EVERYONE

 

Bald Ridge Creek, GA.

We are now safe and sound at one of our favorite camping spots,  Bald Ridge, in Cumming GA.   This Core of Engineer Park is just such a treat for the eyes.  No dirt roads, I've seen a lot of these.   Each campsite is on the water or has a water view, cement pads for the RV's and lots pf maintained grass.  Each site also has a grill and a large sturdy picnic table.   There is a drop of for boats also.

   We talked with friends of our and they are in south Georgia.  Their campground is full of folks from Florida fleeing hurricane Francis.  We should all remember them tonight in our prayers.  

 Our friends in Ma. are going on a cruise this Sunday and we hope they have smooth sailing.  

 We bought a new camera, and if the sun comes out over the weekend I'll try it out.      Catch you all later. 

Jekyll Island

Thursday    Aug. 19, 2004        Today we spent at the beach on Jekyll Island in south Georgia.   Ten miles of uncrowed beach with its fine white sand.  Absolutly beautiful.  We  could smell that salt air before we got there.  The water was a perfect swim tempature, even for Bob.   

 There is a lot to see beside the beachs including a historic district, shopping, bike trails, golfing and sightseeing tours.   I couldn't believe it but, there is aso a water park there. 

 There is also a millionaires village with wonderful old estate houses.  For many years in the past the  Island was the exclusive domain of the Jektll Island Club and a winter retreat for some of America's most elite families.  Some of these houses can now be rented by the week for a mere $3000.  

 All in all we enjoyed our day here.  Legend has it....."Once your feet touch the sands of Jekyll Island you will always come back. "   I hope this is true.

Are We Going To Blow Up?

                                             

Wednesday Aug 17, 2004

  Are We Going To Blow Up?

  This has been some week, and this morning was the topper.   We stopped in at the Flying J Truck stop to fill up with propane.  They sent out a nice young lady to fill her up.   This to me is a dangerous job for all,  if you don't know what you are doing.    Well, as nice as this girl was, she was not properly trained, nor was she certified to do this, I later found out.   She filled it up but when she started to unscrew the connection from our coach, it started hissing out.  She called for help and a man came to help her.  Next she called the manager, who didn't know what to do either.   Now we are all getting nervous as any thing might set this thing off.  I'm getting teary eyed thinking of everything that's in there. 

  Dumbo, the manager then asks us "How long have you been having this problem?"  What problem are you talking about?  We had no problem before coming in here.   He says "You should have that checked out, it's dangerous." He then calls 911 and surrounds  us with cones so no one comes near.  Good grief,  if this thing blows, we'll take down the entire truck stop.  

 Next thing we know the Florence, SC fire chief is there with his crew and an ambulance to carry us off, if need be.   For some reason I still don't feel better. The chief suits up and walks over and easily disconnects the Flying J fill pipe from our coach and as soon as he does the hissing stops and all is well.  He thoroughly checked our connections and found them to be in good condition.  He told us  Flying J  was responsible and told  the manager that it was his fault.  

Just a big thank you for the Florence Fire Department.  They saved my home.

Cape Hatteras and The Wright Brothers

Wed.  Aug. 11 We took the ferry today  from Hatteras to Ocracoke.  This was an enjoyable trip viewing pristine beaches and on the return trip a beautiful sunset.  The ferry was large enough for a touring bus and about 23 cars, and was provided by the N.C. department of transportation for free taking about 40 minutes each way.   Ocracoke , 14 miles long, is a typical island tourest town with lots of quant little shops, fishing excursions, and restaurants with catchie names like "Dirty Dicks Crabs"  

 

 Thursday Aug 12...  This was to be our last day here .  But listening to the weather we have decided to leave today.  They are predicting flash flooding this afternoon at 2pm .   There is still water visible from last weeks hurrican Adam.  Bonnie, a tropical storm and Charles , doing who knows what is on the way.   It's a drive just to get off the island , so being older and wiser, we're out of here.

Cape Hatteras

Monday Aug. 9th...Our destination today is to meet up with friends, Gary and Shirley,  from Az. at Cape Hatteras, N.C.  We have reservations for 4 nights.    We arrived by 2PM, got settled  and  with them made plans for tonight.   A fire on the beach was such a good idea.   Now to get to the beaches here,  one must walk up hill over the dunes, lugging all the fire wood, paper to burn, chairs and of course water, cameras and a flashlite  to spot those little fast running crabs scurring near the waters edge.  We selected a spot and were just setting up when along came a park ranger and told us we need to be 100 feet from the dunes to have a fire.  Next we count of  and find ourself on the wet sand.  That's ok ,we think, because the tide is going out. We enjoy this fire for about half an hour when one of those famous outter banks waves came up and spoiled our party.  We moved back and after a while got another fire going.   There were some folks shooting off fire works on the beach that added to our fun time.   Life is good.  

 Tuesday Aug 10.....Today we went to the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk.    The museum has a full size replica of the plane that  changed history. The park ranger gave a very interesting talk about it and the problens the brothers had to solve.  The first powered, controlled flight on Dec. 17, 1903  lasted 12 seconds and a distance of 120 feet.