Monday-Tuesday - October 30 and Halloween

 Monday - October 30    We left Cypress Trail at 10:45 and I did the first leg of the trip to Venice for a stop at Black and Gold Coffee Roasters (a favorite).   Mark took over from there all the way to Redington Beach (another hour).    Cathy and Don from Aurora, CO are staying at Emerald Isle (Don's sister's condo).   We brought our stuff in and settled down for a good chat - soo fun to see them.    Very nice 3-bedroom condo with beautiful views of the Atlantic from the 3rd floor.  Connie and Steve arrived a little later and the laughs and reminiscing began!!!

Wine, snacks and later off to dinner at Guppy's on the Beach in Indian Rocks - sat outside on this warm evening with a roof covering.    Excellent halibut, scallops, coconut shrimp and shrimp 'n grits - all happy after we left this great place.

Back to the condo and we enjoyed cupcakes and celebrated Connie's birthday (November 14th).    More chatter and then off to bed.

Don and Cathy

Connie and Steve

Mark and Pat

Connie and Steve

View from balcony

Don giving Connie her cupcakes

Tuesday - October 31

H A P P Y   H A L L O W E E N

Chatted over coffee and then said our good byes and hugs and hope to all be together for Valentine's Day in Fort Myers.    We so appreciate Don and Cathy inviting us and sharing their hospitality - very fun visit!!

And then we were on our way.    Stopped at Dunkin in Ocala - 450 miles (long day of travel but the weather was in the low 80s with lots of sunshine.    After 275 and 75, from Ocala we were on several rural roads (2 and 4 lane)    We passed sooo many RV's heading south, cotton fields and logging trucks.

Had lunch at Subway in Folkston, GA.   We shared the driving and it rained the last 15 miles and then the temp dropped.   We got out of the car in Augusta at hotel and burrrr.....64.    Definitely a big change coming for a big part of the country.    Anne said it was 35 and snow flurries in Bloomington - not a good night for the little ghosts and goblins!

199 miles to Lake James !!!

Sunday - October 29

 Summery day of warm (upper 80's) and sunshine!   We went to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis with the new pastor, Father Steve Clemente.   Filled up Ruby with gas and on home.

Did a load of laundry, finished up the packing and Mark went to Camping World.

Tomorrow we are off for a month with first stop in Redington Beach to visit friends Don and Cathy from CO (formerly Bloomington).    Steve and Connie will also be there.   Can't wait to be with these long-time friends we met thru bridge back in the early 70's.   I won't be doing the blog tomorrow.....back on the road to NC on Tuesday arriving at Lake James Wednesday.

Connor and team won their hockey game today 6-5 and he had an assist.

Zoom tonight with only Janet missing.    Theresa has been getting lots of help from family dealing with her stuff and ready to move to independent living.    Doris updated us on Rich who is in the hospital (behavioral unit) and Karen was telling tales of her new job at Catholic school with 6th-7th and 8th graders.

Saturday - October 28

 We were out of the park at 8:30 with bikes behind Ruby heading to the John Yarbrough Linear Park.    A nice 10-mile (round trip) bike/walking path.    After all the corn/bean fields in Ohio and out in the middle of nowhere, this is so different......with busy roads nearby and all the traffic.   Just have to adjust and use the "walk" signs whch are fortunately, only a few that we have to cross!    There are several other paths to consider but this is closest to Cypress Trail.    We just did 8 miles today.

Loaded up the bikes and off to the European American Bakery Cafe (just up the road) for iced tea and latte.   Then to Costco for a few things and last stop was at John and Beth's home to pick up some Madame Alexander dolls that Beth is giving Brooke for her collection.    Had a good visit with them, goodbye hugs (they'll be gone the month of November, too) so we'll catch up in December when we're all back home.

Unloaded the bikes and our stuff, had lunch and then settled in - so glad we rode early as it got to 88 and sunny!   

Around 5ish we drove downtown with the plan to walk around and then get something to eat!    Lots of folks out and about on this pretty Saturday night and many in costume for the Pub Crawl and also a big party!    We did a "short" walk and ended up at Capone's in the alley.   A group of 5 ladies (Witches) sat beside us.   These friends were sure having fun and do this each year.    One of the gals was originally from Watseka, IL.

The Witches

Friday - October 27

 Hot 'n sunny with wispy clouds....we had ham/egg/cheese on sour dough English muffins.    Mark helped Jim with more internet stuff and they are good to go and happy campers!   we like, we want, we demand  😀  good internet service!

 Lydia sent home a box of son Paul's chocolates which are wonderfuL.   What a yummy thank you gift and much appreciated!    Mark who did all the work, kindly shared with me!  😉

I did 4 loads of laundry and started packing our stuff for NC in suitcases, bags and a bin.    Weather is so changeable - next Monday at Lake James it's to be 80 and Wednesday (day we arrive), the high will be 48.    So, taking all kinds of clothes for whatever comes our way.

Connor gave blood today for the 1st time....proud of him as this is such a necessary and worthwhile cause.    Anne is a faithful donor and her recent donation went to KSB hospital in Dixon, IL (Mark's hometown).

Randy from Lincoln called at 3 telling us Ruby was ready to be picked up - the problem with the various issues was a bad battery!!!    REALLY?    So, they put in a new one, checked everything and we are good to go!   🤞🤞🤞

We left shortly after for Galloway Ford/Lincoln.    I came on home with Ruby (nice 'n clean)  and Mark got Big Red washed and filled with diesel.

Holy Moly....yesterday when Mark was waiting at the retina center, he was reading an article about construction and builders in SWFL.    Babcock Ranch, the huge community south of Punta Gorda currently has 2500 homes with new homes and businesses going up everywhere.   The projeccted # of homes when this fast-growing "city" is finished is 19,500.    Unbelievable!!!

Leftovers for supper - trying to clean out fridge/freezer before we leave.   Got Big Red covered away from the hot FL sun.

Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday - October 26

 Off to the retina center this morning for recheck of Mark's eye - he has a parasite in his eye from chickens (histoplasmosis) that most likely occurred as a child living on the farm and a common thing in the Midwest.    He didn't know he had this till Dr. Collins (regular eye doctor) discovered it and sent him to Dr. Katrina Mears.   It could cause distortion and vision loss.  Very strange.....we were there almost 2 hours - waiting waiting waiting!   I was sitting in the waiting room as so many people kept coming and going and during that time, they called 4 Patricias!   Ha....happy to not be a patient.

I had to drive (Big Red) as Mark's eyes were dilated.   From the retina center we went straight to Backyard Social a brand new place (October 19th) that is very colorful (turquoise and hot pink decor + lots of unbelievable murals.)    The bathrooms were really funky!

This place has 8 food trucks (you order from bar codes), a large bar, corn hole, duckpin bowling, darts and Love Boat ice cream.    We got there before it actually opened and walked around - so much to see.      Lots of outdoor seating and each area has its own fire pit.    The place filled up quickly (we were inside with lots of fans).    John and Beth joined us and we had so much to catch up on - hadn't been together since April.   Food was good and we chatted almost 3 hours.   Great to be together again before they take off again....😃😃.    The food trucks included Seafood, Greek, Venezuelan, BBQ, American (burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, etc.) Chicken, Mexican and Cheese.

John and Beth

On home.....late yesterday Randy (Lincoln service advisor) texted Mark that they were still trying to find answers and a fix for Ruby???   And then late this afternoon, another text that their diagnostic team is  still trying to figure all this out - nothing serious just issues!!!    Arghhhh.   Mark told him we have to have it back by late tomorrow as we leave Monday for a month.   My Ruby is only 24 days old?  

Thinking of our friend, Carol whose funeral was today.    Prayers for Roger, her children and grandchildren.    😢🙏 

Wednesday - October 25

 We were up early and out the door before 7 (in the dark) with Mark driving Big Red and me in Ruby.    Went to Galloway Lincoln Ford to drop off Ruby for some explaining a bit more about the electronics and fixing a few other issues.    Not sure when she'll be ready for pick up, but we had a bunch of things to take care of.    So, off to the dentist for our 6-month dental exams and cleaning (Mark with Laura and me with Danielle).   Mark has a small cavity from old filling so will have them taken care of in December.

More stops included breakfast at Biscotti, flu shots at Publix, Barbara Mann (box office is now at the Suncoast Credit Union while they are remodeling) for some upcoming shows, Trader Joe's and Wilford and Lee.  Really appreciated Mark being my chauffeur for all these stops.

On home and started the Christmas wrapping to take to NC.   Long ways to go with the shopping, but I've started.....

Mark put together a new bike rack for us to get out on some great bike paths and get back in that groove - haven't ridden since we left Port Clinton in early September.   There are several paths to try, so that's the plan in the next few days.

When we were having lunch at Mason's Lobster Rolls the other day, we talked to a guy who is an insurance adjuster from San Diego working here and filing claims from Ian.    He goes on site and after all the paper work is done, flies back to San Diego.    He expects he'll be doing this for at least 2 more years!

A swatting incident in Bloomington/Normal today - ugh! arghhhh!      Swatting is when someone calls in a fake alarm - this time letting police know there was potential gun violence in the schools.   And it was a hoax...!    

Spaghetti for supper and then a walk in the park!   Stopped at Jim and Lydia's - the guys talked internet stuff and Lydia and I commiserated about upcoming shows at Cypress Trail and the hassle of getting tickets thru Eventbrite or already sold out!  

  

Tuesday - October 24

 Clothes, clothes, so many clothes......I made some good headway sorting what I'm keeping, what's going to Goodwill, etc.    We have almost all our clothes with us now after taking more from storage in Bloomington.    We'll be in NC for a month, so need things for cooler weather + going back to IL for a weekend in December!   I yigh yigh.....I do not neeed to do any shopping anytime soon!!!    Mark does not have that problem - keeps his things to a minimum!

Left at 11 to drive downtown for a manicure with Lindsay.   Tamara is no longer at Profiles as she took a job this summer at a dental office.   Stopped at Publix for a few things and on home.    Had lunch and made spaghetti sauce.  

Went for a walk - so windy tonight!

Monday - October 23

 A busy morning for the nomads starting with a stop at Target and Starbucks, then  appointments with Dr. Kagen at Riverchase Dermatology.   Very happy when he said our full-body scans showed we both had excellent skin.   Back in 6 months.

Then downtown to the Lee County government bulding which services sooo many things.  Went to the election office as Mark needed to change and update his mail-in-ballot info (confusion on address) - quick fix and then we walked to get some exercise on this gorgeous morning.    Back to same building for 11:40 appt. to get the title transferred to Ruby.   Since we were already downtown decided to have lunch at Mason's Lobster Rolls - instead of lobster rolls, Mark had a grilled cheese/lobster sandwich and I had lobster mac 'n cheese.    Both excellent.    On home and read, played games on our I-pads, etc.   Jim came over in the aftrnoon with questions about the high speed internet - their installation will be Thursday.

Our next-door neighbor, Dick and friend Monika have returned from a 34-day 'round the world cruise.   WOW.....what a trip!    We followed his blog but he had more interesting tidbits to share such as the Carnival Luminosa was a repositioning ship from the US and now will be cruising out of Australia (their final port).    This ship is primarily all about gambling and he was blown away by the heavy gamblers onboard losing thousands of $ (at least $20,000 for 1 person)!   😣    Two disappointments were that they could not go to Alaska (high on Dick's list) cause of bad seas and the Philippines cause of a typhoon..     But he would go again in a minute!

Today is Mark's sister, Marilyn's 70th birthday!    HAPPY BIRTHDAY!   Praying for her son Nick who is having serious back surgery today.

We sure are enjoying our high-speed internet!!!

Even though we are having very summery weather, I'm enjoying burning some fall-scented candles!

We took the Cricket tonight for a little spin in the park delivering our garbage to the trash compacter, mailing some letters and getting a bag of ice.  

Marilyn updated the family that Nick was on his way home (outpatient) and now we pray for healing and total, pain free recovery.

Sunday - October 22

 A busy Sunday that started out foggy and very drippy wet!    Off to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis Xavier.    Big surprise to find that Father Anthony is no longer the pastor and was transferred in July to Our Lady of Mercy in Boca Grande.    He had been at St. Francis for 10 years and we knew him for 5.   We have 2 new priests and today, Father Robert Tatman said the mass.    They've added a musicians group, and have the children leave during the homily for their own discussions.    It was nice to see familiar faces from past years.

Went to the Oasis for yummy breakfast and then to Soma (I had a $20 off coupon that expired today).    Did some shopping and on home.

We took a little rest and then tackled washing Flo, windows, screens, sills, etc.    Glad to have that job done!

This afternoon, the sun came out and it got to 83.    We stopped in to welcome Jim and Lydia back to Cypress Trail.    They arrived this afternoon and happy to have them here in the park.   We have a busy week ahead with doctor appts., lunch with friends, etc.   

Liam, Luke, Connor

at yesterday's game

10 on Zoom tonight - just missing Sharon who is with her grandchildren.   Lots of discussion on Theresa and Mike's move (in about 3 months) to a retirement facility and very overwhelmed with soooo much to do!    Sure wish we could help out.    Looking forward to seeing them in 2 weeks in NC.

 

Saturday - October 21

 A sad day waking up to the news that our dear long-time friend, Carol passed away.    Carol was fighting pancreatic cancer for 1 year and such an inspiration - always so positive and upbeat.    We met Carol and Roger back in the 80's thru boating and spent sooo many fun times together thru the Mid Illini Power Squadron and in Florida keeping up-to-date on our families and other happenings.    We were last together for lunch on September 21st - Mark and I will cherish that memory and now heaven has certainly gained a very special angel. 

  RIP Carol

A warm sunny Saturday.   I made ham/cheese omelets and toast and then we set to work - Mark had some outside projects and I did some organizing in the she shed.  

Just a real down day with so many thoughts and memories of Carol and another friend, Denny,    Mark and I went to the Boathouse at 5 for drinks, pulled pork nachos and reminisced about the loss of our friends.

And then the Hawkeyes lost 12-10 to Minnesota....but the kids had a lot of fun!

Drew and Anne tailgating

Black 'n Gold Day 

Anne and Tessa in the gold section

We walked in the evening - so pleasant out and happy to see Dennis and Jamie are back!

Friday - October 20

 What a big fun day!   We left home at 8:30 and returned at 5:45!    So excited to go downtown to Peters our favorite Fort Myers coffee shop (and German ice cream).    Last January, they had to move from their location cause owners were supposedly putting in a restaurant.    So from January thru May, Stefan and Marika had to deal with finding a new location, waiting for permits, workers to remodel and red tape and hassles throughout +++ losing the whole season.     But what a gem they have on Dean Street with a courtyard to sit outside - the old brick walls - just love it.....very charming!!!   And of course, so good to see the dear sweet owners.   Marika gave me a big hug and she's so happy to see their old customers and can't wait for the snowbirds to return.    It was a very slow summer with minimal tourists and so very hot.    As always our coffees, pastry (me) and sandwich (Mark) were delicious.

Said good bye to Marika and Mark walked down the street to get a haircut from Jose.    I strolled around downtown - a new place is coming this fall called "Sip and Sizzle" where First Street Restaurant used to be but never recovered from Ian.

Great to be back with our favorites - love downtown.    Starbucks is back open after being closed for almost a year.

Then we drove to Shell Point retirement community - beautiful area on 700 acres with over 2000 residents.    Our friends, Connie and Steve just moved in to their new home in September and love it!     WOW.....we went to the Wright Wellness Center for lunch at The Vue which opened today!    Wonderful lunch with gorgeous views.    Also saw the new fitness facility which opened yesterday, the pro shop, etc.    

They took us on a driving tour of this massive campus and we stopped a few times - checked out the Tribby Arts Center - wow!    Everything is top notch and we were so impressed.    Connie broke her ankle in Juy so still recovering from that but has come a long way.    She was a trooper using her 3-prong cane to move around.

Then to their new home - lovely on the 5th floor.   We sat and yakked for several more hours - so happy for them and they are loving it!     Look forward to several more times being together this winter - our friendship goes back to the early 70's when we played bridge.   

Steve and Connie

We ran a few errands and on home!    Just chillin' tonight!

I was so sorry and sad to hear that a long-time friend, Denny Steele passed away.   I was in Exchange Club with Denny for many years - great guy!

Anne, Connor and his friend, Luke are in Iowa City this weekend to visit Liam and see the big Hawkeye versus Minnesota game tomorrow!   Drew and Tessa will be at the game, too.

Thursday - October 19

 The Opticaltel folks called at 8:25 and said they were on their way, but 2 hours later, we found out they went to the wrong lot in the park so they did 2 others before us.    Finally came and only took 1/2 hour and we are good to go.

Another warm sunny day.    Flo is sparkling inside and done with that task.....now to give her a good scrubbing and wash windows - Saturday???     The she shed needs some organizing + sort thru our clothes, but for now, happy with what we got done!  

We were expecting some things from Amazon today and one of the items had to be signed for.    We knew it was out for delivery, but waited all day.....Mark finally went to WalMart for some piddlies and a Rx.    UPS finally came at 7:45.

Connor's hockey season got underway last night with a preseason game - Connor scored a goal and they won 5-4

   

Wednesday - October 18

 Another gorgeous day in SWFL with a high of 81 although 51 nippy degrees started the day!    We had a productive day putting our stuff where it belongs, some cleaning in Flo, etc.    At 10:15, Mark said we need to go for  walk before it gets warmer - so pleasant and time to get back in the walking groove.    Had a good chat with Bill around the corner from NC and mutual friends with our kiddos.

After lunch we rested a bit and then back at it.   Also got the laundry going today - so happy to be back in my she shed with washer/dryer.

Tomorrow the Opticaltel folks are coming to install high-speed internet.    We've been waiting a long time for this here in the park and so looking forward to getting this installed as it's been so sporadic and frustrating.

The vegetation did well over the summer - plants and trees are thriving!   

This is the same bougainvillea that has had so many issues from the wind, Ian and was down to a stump.....wow, it really came back with the trellis it's climbing!   Looking forward to lots of blooms!

Walked after supper - sooo quiet in the park!

 

Tuesday - October 17

 We are HOME!     Arrived at Cypress Trail at 11 after a 2-hour trip from Lakeland.   Absolutely gorgeous day - clear blue skies and 75 degrees.

We wet the pavers before parking Flo to prevent black marks and then Mark did an expert job getting her in just the right spot!   Lots to do but going to take it one day at a time...had lunch, got the she shed in somewhat order with patio furniture out and the little golf cart (Joe and Joan's that we were storing)

Neighbors on either side of us and across the street are gone....some won't come till January.

I got a much needed-haircut with Destiny this afternoon.   Then to Publix for a few groceries and on home.

We took the Cricket (mini golf cart) for a little spin around the park!  

We had Flo's windows open all day - so refreshing.    Enjoyed our leftovers from Carrabba's for supper.    Happy campers tonight!  😀😀

Monday - October 16

 Day 4 of our travels is done!    We left A Stone's Throw RV Park at 8:30 this morning.    We were on 19 South for many miles and so pleasant with very little traffic.    We did a lot of rural driving but had 21 miles on I-75 whch was crazy busy.   UGH   ARGH!    We were very happy to get back in the country.    Big Red has no problem traveling 65 versus the high-speed drivers on the interstate.    MUCH less stressful.    We got fuel (gas for Ruby and diesel for Big Red) and ate lunch in Bronson, FL.

Today was the same as yesterday seeing sooo many Dollar General stores.    Yesterday, there was a stretch in Georgia where there was one every 4 miles.    They are popping up everywhere.

Arrived at Sanlan RV Park and Golf Resort in Lakeland around 2:15.    We've been here several times always when visiting my brothers and the girls.

Ron, Sue, Vicki

We arrived at Ron and Vicki's at 3:50.    Their friend Sue from IL is visiting for 2 weeks.    She and Denny have a home in the park.    We've known them for many years.    Great visit along with wine and snacks.   We all went to Carrabba's for delicious Italian and more chatter and catching up.    Very enjoyable evening.  

  On back to Flo and oh so ready to call it a day!    ONE more day of travel!

Sunday - October 15

 We are tired nomads tonight traveling 456 miles starting at 6:35 AM.    Up and at 'em, kringle for breakfast, stowed all the loose stuff away and we were off.....it drizzled off and on for about 2 hours.   Stopped in Alabaster, AL for fuel and later lunch on Flo in Troy, AL.

Tonight we are in Lamont, FL (east of Tallahasee).    Much better traveling today with NO construction and a new route Mark discovered - 82 East out of Dothan and then 27 South to I-10.    Great 4-lane roads with light traffic.    We saw sooo many FL plates heading south when we were in TN, AL and GA.   It was 74 and sunny when we arrived at 4:00 eastern time - lost that hour!

BLT's for supper, then online Mass from Port Clinton but Father Jonathan was not here this week so had another priest.    Then family zoom....9 were on tonight and today, would've been the siblings' sister Sue's birthday.....she passed away October 12, 2020.

Tomorrow we are headed to Lakeland to visit my brother Ron and Vicki.

Have a great week.

Saturday - October 14

 Boy are we ever happy and thankful to be settled in at the Stoney Creek Travel Park in Cornersville, TN.    We were back on the road at 8:45 this morning after another heavy downpour at 9:45 last night.    It was very gloomy, chilly and windy when we left Salem.

So, today was sooo much construction on I57 - long stretches of 1 lane, then done for a short stretch but soon the same ole same ole on and on!!!    And traffic on I24 was just bananas.    Mark had been following a big wide load semi for a long time - was nice to follow behind this big guy.   At one point, Mark was able to pass him, only to have a semi on the far right swerve into wide load's lane causing him to come into Big Red's lane forcing Big Red onto shoulder - sooo close to being sideswept and Ruby and I were watching the whole thing!     YIKES.....scary.   Mark and wide load blasted their horns at the other semi.    Thankfully, all turned out, but......a very hairy moment!

We stopped in Calvert City, KY for diesel for Big Red and then at Cracker Barrel for late lunch in Nashville.    There was at least a 15-mile back-up in the northbound lanes of I65 - no idea what the cause was as we never saw an accident but wow.....that will sure slow ya down!    Finally saw the sun in Nashville.

We were last here at this campground on October 18, 2020 enroute to FL.

Emma and Brady

Homecoming (Hoco) 2023

Our cheerleader Blair

Blair with good friends - Abby, Ivy and Aubrey

Blair at the top!

The Salem Tigers are undefeated

72 days till Christmas!

Friday - October 13

 It's Friday the 13th and we were pulling out of Site #63 at 7:26 AM.    Back "On the Road Again" and "I will follow him" and we are on our way!    Arrived in Salem, IL at the Ucamp Express RV Park.   This place is only 2 years old, has only 10 sites and got great reviews.   It has a kiosk check in and is on a first come first serve basis with nice paved lots, some grass and gravel, and a small picnic table for 2 and a chiminea on each site with free wood.

Flo's home for tonight with little picnic table and chiminea

The owner explained "we are not an RV resort, but an RV express".    She wanted to make it warm and friendly so has this nice spot to hang out!

We had never heard of an RV Express, but this is really neat.   After settling in, we went to Five Brothers Cafe, a long-time famiy restaurant here in Salem that we've been to several times.    We enjoyed our late-morning breakfasts and back to Flo.   

We prayed the rosary along the way and as always, I enjoyed my Oldies (60's).    Today was especially neat as all songs were from 1969 + all the special events that occurred that year ("our wedding", 1st man to land on the moon, 1st ever Concorde test flight in France, Woodstock, etc.)   Today also marks the birthday of the US Navy (248 years).    They always share so many interesting tidbits.

The rain started at 2:00....and came fast and furious and lasted throughout the afternoon.

There are just 3 campers here tonight.   Mark and I both noticed that the further south we traveled today, the more fall color we saw???    Seems strange that the most color wouldn't be north of here?    At any rate, happy to see some pretty trees!

  

Thursday - October 12

 A little rain early this morning and then sunny skies and really warm temps (79) in the afternoon.    We were off to town to run some errands.   Stopped at Anne's with some treats from Braker's for she and Connor and say good bye!    Then to Ken and Sigrun's - took her a few treats and wishing her happy healing with her wrist.    She has the cutest skeleton decor in her front yard.

Check out the baby on back of bike.

We met Barb and Roger for a long leisurely yummy lunch on the patio at Ancho and Agave.    Been a long time since the 4 of us were together.   We'll see them in FL but not till January.

Mark, Pat, Barb, Roger

Last stop of the day was to visit Donna Rae.    Shes doing well and sharp as ever.   She showed us the Halloween cards she had painted for her 12 great grands (#13 is due in April).  It's always fun to be with her.

Donna Rae

On home and pondering about what to do travel wise.   Originally, the plan was to leave Saturday, the 14th for Fort Myers.    We have reservations at RV parks Saturday thru Monday nights.    But the weather forecast keeps changing.    Of course today was beautiful, but next 2 days sound yucky with possible heavy rain, storms, strong winds, hail, etc.    So...........we have Flo hooked up to Big Red and ready to roll outta KK but will wait and see what tomorrow morning brings.

I was really hoping to see some fall color before we left but still very green in central IL.

Wednesday - October 11

 Cloudy most of the day with the threat of rain (phones kept sending alerts), but just a little drizzle.    Joyce and Butch (Champaign friends and fellow RVers) came to KK.    Always a fun day with them.   We took off in Ruby for Faire Coffee in Eureka.    They love the quaint coffee shops as much as we do, so always part of whatever we're doing when we're together.

We sat and visited in this old bank building for over an hour and then off to Mackinaw and lunch at the Tea Room.   This is the 3rd time the 4 of us have eaten here and a favorite for all.   We loved our lunches, desserts, etc.   Joyce and I browsed the Garden Gate Floral with so many pretties and then back to Eureka.  

Joyce and Butch peeking around their yummy tiers

My Harvest salad and turtle cheesecake

Mark's fudge (lava) cake with ice cream and whipped cream!

  Stopped at Braker's - love their food choices and stocked up on a few things. 

Pat - Joyce - Butch - Mark

love this place

   Then to Scottwood for more browsing - this place is sooo awesome with gorgeous gifts, floral arrangements, gourmet foods, etc. + all the specialty coffees.    They had a lot of Christmas decor out and it was absolutely stunning + playing the most beautiful Christmas music - not even Halloween yet, but thoroughly enjoyed it all.   

Back to KK, said our good byes till Florida.    They are leaving Sunday for the Sunshine State.   

Tuesday - October 10

 Beautiful fall day.    We were off at 9:30 with 5 loads of laundry to take to Normal Maytag Coin Laundry.    The attendant, Jack, is so nice and friendly,    He always asks about our travels, etc.    Today he told us all about the new laundry facility coming soon - totally remodeling with all brand new stainless steel machines, cards instead of quarters, no charge for drying, etc.    He was saying that the company that owns over 7,000 laundromats across the country has over 500,000 machines with 22,000 not working! 😖    He showed us pics and they will close for 3 days and be finished sometime in November.    We'll have to wait till next spring!

Then we ran a few errands and met friends Pat and Brenda at The Station Saloon for lunch and celebrate Brenda's birthday.    We enjoyed our lunch - lots of choices and very reasonable.   We sat and chatted for 2 hours laughing and just really fun to be together and catch up.

Pat and the Birthday Girl

Friends since 1979 when they moved to Bloomington and we were neighbors

on Jackson Street

One more stop at Dollar Tree and on home.    Quiet afternoon in the country reading and playing games on our I-pads.  The farmers are going strong!

Then time to "EAT' again....so back to town to meet Anne and Connor at Hacienda Leon for some great Mexican fare.  Fun catching up about golf tournament, homecoming, school, etc., etc.  

The gals

The guys

Monday - October 9

 Chilly and windy with sun and clouds.   We met Pat, Brenda, Ken and Sigrun at Cracker Barrel for breakfast and chatter.....a nice round tabe for 6 and we carried on for over 2 hours!    Stopped at WalMart for a few things and on home.

Sigrun and her broken wrist but fortunately, does not need surgery - wears this soft splint for 3 weeks!

Ken in background!

We are under a frost advisory for the next several hours----burrr, time to head south!

Tonight was to be a wiener roast here at KK for my Monday Night Friends and husbands.   Ruth who lives on a farm in rural Chenoa graciously offered to have us come to their heated shed (with outside fire pit).    It did not take long for all of us to say "YES"!!!   Brenda, Marsha and I all spent the weekend cheering on our grandkids with their sports (tennis, football and golf) and we had enough with the cold and wind!    So, this was a win win for all.

So off to Chenoa for a fun evening in the country - just 5 of us + hubbies, but great food and conversation.    

Brenda, Ruth, Pat Marsha, Tamara

Pat, Darrel, Mark, Bob, Gerry

Ruth gave me a sweet bouquet of zinnias from her garden

Bob's shirt

 

 

Sunday - October 8

 Off to 10:00 Mass at Holy Trinity with Father Stirniman.    Mark came back to Carlock and had lunch at the Carlock Family Restaurant and I drove to Destihl to meet Claire for brunch.   We enjoyed 1.5 hours of chatter and delicious food.    We each changed or added more layers and went to the Evergreen Cemetery Walk (29th annual)    Mark and I did this many years ago.    Big crowd today (the last of 4 performances) and so well done by the characters (6 different vignettes).    The actors were excellent as we meandered thru the cemetery gazing at the many tombstones from so long ago and then these 6 stories came alive.    It was much more comfortable temperature than the past few days but had a little drizzle off and on.

Said bye bye to Claire - won't see her till January in Fort Myers!    On back to KK.

Ryan has returned from his cruise from Boston to Quebec (including Princce Edward Island, Nova Scotia, etc.)    He was home for a few hours and then off to Paris!

Zoom tonight with only 6.    Some are traveling....Jim in Mississippi; Janet in North Dakota; and Tom in Tennessee.  

Have a good week and stay warm with these chilly fall temps.

Saturday - October 7

 Another big day at Prairie Vista but the sun was shining all day.....we left KK at 8ish and temp was 42.    Only got in the 50's, and still windy, but overall, MUCH better than yesterday!     And Connor had a really good day shooting a 74 with 2 birdies.

 Connor and the squaking geese

Reading the green

Mark and I were so happy we got to see his last hurrah as a Saints golfer.   Connor tied for 13th best overall and the Saints came in 5th place (2 strokes from 4th).

Proud Mama and Connor

Connor and Grandpa

Grandma and Connor

Several classmates came out to cheer on the Saints.    Said our good byes to Liam as he'll be heading back to Iowa tomorrow.

Mark and I ran a few errands and on back to KK.    Happy to be in warm toasty Flo.

Homecoming at CCHS tonight....here's our grand boys!

Connor and Haley

Liam and Jaycee

Ruby had 9 miles when we picked her up Monday - 5 days later, she has 684.   We are slowly learning her bells and whistles!

Friday - October 6

 Oh my......today was brutal on the ole golf course!     Started out sunny and calm (50) and warmed up a little, but then the wind picked up, the clouds appeared and oh my.........cold, windy and occasional drizzle.    MISERABLE walking around and really felt for the golfers who were not dressed for this weather.

Connor teed off at 9:06, shot a 79 and CCHS came in 4th place out of 12 teams.  Six hours later, the temp was 52 and drizzling and we were outta there.  They will advance to tomorrow's match.    We were thankful to hang out just a bit at our friends Pat and Brenda's condo on the 13th hole to warm up.    They were at their granddaughter's tennis meet.

Came back to KK, took a nap under a warm blankie and slowly thawed out!    More of the same tomorrow with colder temps.    Sunshine was in the forecast for today......but that fizzled out big time.

q

Mark - Anne - Liam

What is Connor thinking?

Thursday - October 5

 An ugly start to the day - very dark and gloomy with rain (heavy at times) amounting to 1/2" here at KK.    We took off for town around 9ish and had several errands.    Stopped at storage and sorted thru a bunch of clothes and gave 2 big piles to Goodwill.    We need to keep on clearing out as so much we are not using and probably never will???

We had lunch at Panera and then to see our attorney (and former neighbor), Tom about some ? regarding my farm land.    Tom, Amy and 2 girls (Lydia and Anna) live a few doors from where we were on Jackson.    He caught us up on who is still in the neighborhood (not much change) and some other interesting tidbits.    Great to see him as it's been 8 years since we left Bloomington.

On home and the sun was shining - beautiful afternoon.

Got a canister of compressed air to clean our computer keyboards - when we were going thru the check-out lane at Wal Mart, a light came on?    The lady helper came over - had to make sure we were "old" enough to buy this stuff....guess kids (or whoever) use this to get "high"?   Oh my...

 So this morning in the rain, the 4 seniors on the CCHS golf team went to Prairie Vista to practice....

Connor - Patrick - Luke A - Luke B

Liam arrived home this afternoon for the weekend and brought a little gift for his buddy, Gibson

A Hawkeye bandanna

Tonight we went to Destihl with Steve and Peggy.    So much catching up - had not been with them in a long time and our friendship goes back to the 1970's.    Great dinner and visit

Steve and Peggy

So sorry to hear tonight that our friend, Sigrun fell down 8 steps today breaking her wrist.    Wishing her a speedy recovery....🙏🙏🙏

Wednesday - October 4

 Today was the last warm day for a while, but also windy!   Had some rain overnight.  We checked out of the hotel and headed to Scooter's coffee - really nice and new (January) but has inside and outside dining.    We've seen Scooter's in FL and other areas but usually a small building just drive thru.   A new one is coming to Mendota.    The barista told me this is the largest one of all their franchises.   I had a very delicious caramelicious latte (caramel, vanilla and hazelnut) + a very delicious caramelicious muffin!!!

Very nice coffee shop

We ran a few errands - WalMart to get a new bicycle tire and tube as Liam's was flat and he is very dependant on his bike.    Hope it works out ok.   Also browsed around Von Maur - lots of Christmas decor.   Love this area (River Landing) and remember walking around when we were here for Drew's graduation in May, 2022.

Met Liam at Harry's downtown for lunch.    This is fairly new spot and he wanted to try it.   It's a diner - food was ok...nothing special!    Liam liked his omelet, so that's what matters!!!

We said our good byes and on back to KK.    Liam is coming home this weekend for the state golf tournament and CCHS homecoming with Jaycee.    He seems very happy - enjoying his classes, friends, and being a Hawkeye!

Bye bye Liam....enjoyed our time with you and Iowa City!

Home around 4ish....unpacked and settled in - temperature dropped and cloudy - supposed to get some rain tonight

We missed Drew last night but he sent some pics from view he was enjoying on the 53rd floor of the Aon building in downtown Chicago which actualy has "83" stories.

Gotta love this views

Mark and I shared the driving coming home today.   Whoever was the passenger would try and figure out what was what with all the buttons to push and how to get what we wanted?   Could take a while to figure it all out!