Sunday - November 17

 We went to St. Vincent de Paul for 9:00 Mass - big crowd and love their priest, Father Murchadh O'Madagain.   Beautiful singing, too.

Decided to try a new place for breakfast since we were in a whole different area of Fort Myers so off to the Alva Country Diner in Alva, FL.   We had to wait about 15 minutes but  instead of our usual eggs, pancakes, waffles, etc., we each had the chipped beef 'n gravy over toast (Mark) or biscuit (me) - hadn't had that years!    Really good along with home fries.

On home but came thru the country on a different route ending up near Babcock Ranch.   

A very pretty sunny Sunday and at 2, we walked to Jim and Lydia's to play 6-handed euchre with Todd and Cindy,   They've played lots of euchre but always 4-handed, so over the past few weeks, we've taught them 2, 3 and 5 handed and today,...6-handed!   Lots of fun and Lydia, Cindy and I beat the guys 2 of 3 games.    Enjoyed lots of yummy snacks under the gazebo and so pleasant with a nice breeze.

Cindy's selfie 

Cindy, Mark, Pat, Jim, Lydia, Todd

Walked later in the afternoon and chatted with Connor - he's dong well, but right now, dealing with a nasty cold!

Our neighbors 4 doors away moved to their home a few days ago but still staying here at CT till they are fully settled.   They invited us under their tiki for a glass of wine.    We will miss them....good visit and plan to see them when they are settled at Kelly Green.

Verna and Tom

Big group of 12 on Zoom tonight....usual discussion on health issues, Thanksgiving plans, Packers win over the Bears, etc.

Saturday - November 16

 61 degrees when we started our walk this morning - sooo pleasant!    The sun was shining and several folks in the park were having a yard sale selling all sort of treasures!    

I went for another walk after breakfast and then had a good visit with Jim and Lydia and a gal I had not met in the park, Cynthia from PA and her cute golden doodle, Skye.   Jim made me a delicious iced caramel latte.

On home for lunch, a nap and relaxing afternoon.    We opened windows in Flo and enjoyed the nice cross breeze.

I have 2 very dear long-time friends who are my age and both in hospice.....so many prayers being offered for their comfort and thankful they are both at peace and have a very strong faith.   

Went for a final walk at 5:15 (half time).   I watched the Notre Dame vs. Virginia game.....yeah for the Irish with their big win of 35-14.

Congratulations to our dear friends, Kathy and Paul who are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary today.

Friday - November 15

 The humidity was back this morning.....got our walk in, did some laundry and then we were off to play euchre in the library.    Mark helped Vicki as she had never played.   Anita and Dan were partners against Todd and Vicki.    Cindy and I played 2-handed and a good time was had by all!

Walked home, had lunch, folded some laundry and then we walked to the clubhouse at 4 for our "Welcome Back" party here at CT.    They had a huge crowd and so pleasant sitting under the tiki (also a lot of folks inside the clubhouse).    We had brats, burgers, potato chips, baked beans and then ice cream with sugar or chocolate chip cookie and all the toppings!   Delish and fun evening!    We sat with Jim and Lydia and caught up with their news.

Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday - November 14

 We walked this morning and oh my........the air was so fresh with low humidity and only 71.  It felt so good and fellow walkers agreed!!!

 We met Allie and Owen at Buckingham Farms for a delicious breakfast for all and a great visit before they headed home to North Port.   Also did a little shopping inside!

Owen, Allie, Pat, Mark

Came home and had a quiet afternoon.   We left at 3:30 to pick up dessert at Publix (triple berry cream tart) and onto Rog and Martin's home.   They were our next door neighbors here at CT for a few years before getting out of RVing and buying a condo.    We had such a nice visit + wine and snacks followed by delicious dinner (stuffed peppers, veggies and rolls).    Great to see them - we miss having them as neighbors.

Rog and Martin

Wednesday - November 13

 The high humidity (97%), Mark and I walked together this morning!    Ha.....but better weather is coming with pleasant temps and low humidity!    And then, there's another threat of a hurricane, tropical storm, whatever coming to FL next week...................geez....it's almost mid November.   PLEASE stay away, Sara!

Scary to hear this morning from Anne that Busy Corner (our favorite go-to-place when we're at Kamp Komfort) had a fire and closed temporarily.    Fortunately, no one was injured and not too serious, but......they have hundreds and hundreds of pie orders for Thanksgiving, so hope they are up and running well before then.

 

There are so many "Vicki's" here in the park + "Sue's" + "Lisa's" - and there's 2 "Larry and Sue's" and another Mark and Pat.    Also other siblings like Mark and Jim, parents and adult children, etc.

I played rummikub and so fun with Anita, Denise, 2 Vicki's and myself.   

Allie and Owen came at 2ish and so good to see them.....sat and yakked on Flo.   They went to their hotel to check in and we picked them up at 5 to go to University Grill for delicious dinner including chocolate/raspberry martinis for Allie and I (favorite after-dinner drink)!

Allie and Owen

Here we are at University Grill

Cheers from the "Martini Girls

Then off to the Manheim Steamroller Christmas show at Barbara Mann theater.    Wow - WOW - WOW.....excellent show and so entertaining.   I've always wanted to see this group and my, what a treat!     Took Allie and Owen back to their hotel and we all called it a night!

Fabulous concert!

They are on a 48-city tour and Fort Myers was their #2 stop after St. Pete, FL....If you get the chance, don't miss this phenomenal show!!!

 

Tuesday - November 12

 One year ago today I had my bad fall hiking in NC.....oohhh, still so fresh in my mind how that all happened and now here I am one year later.   Happy the shoulder has come as far as it is - 90%  and still hopeful and praying my hand will be free of the nerve damage!

Drippy walk (96% humidity) this morning and then we were off to Peter's Coffee Shop....downtown is a mess with the big boat show coming this weekend.   Couldn't get into the parking lot without a special card?    And lots of trucks on the street unloading beverages/food to all the restaurants.    We enjoyed our breakfast/coffee (Mark had a croissant with ham, egg and cheese and avocado toast for me) - all delicious.    It was very pleasant sitting in the courtyard out of the hot sun.

A few more errands included dropping off a bag of stuff to donate to "Blue", a very nice thrift store.    On home.

I love all the activities here in the park....and Mark is happy just doing his thing (not into games except for euchre and Lucky 13.)

Monday - canasta; Tuesday - free; Wednesday - rummikub and Lucky 13; Thursday - canasta; Friday - euchre    but nice to have Tuesdays free.

We walked late afternoon - much more pleasant than this morning.    Visited with Ron, Brenda (she and Mark just arrived last night from Ohio) and said good bye to Tom and Verna who are leaving CT on Saturday as they bought a home in Fort Myers.

Monday - November 11

THANK YOU

to Ryan and all the brave men and women who have or are serving our country!

 These November days are just rolling along and unseasonably HOT here in SWFL    We walked but at 8:30, the humidity was at 91%. 

Mark left to pick up a package at Amazon and then get some ice.    I played canasta and was on the winning team at our table.

 Beth. Michelle, Deb, Anita, Pat, Margaret, Vicki

Vicki Michelle and Pat were the winners

Did some laundry and tried to stay cool throughout the day.  Mark had some Flo projects that kept him busy.

Tonight Lydia and I went to "Ladies Night Out" under the big tiki on the clubhouse patio.    So fun to meet several new gals - we all took a beverage and snack (lots of yummy appetizers).    Lydia drove here little cricket and we had a very enjoyable evening.

Sunday - November 10

 Congratulations to our grandson Drew (Michael and Brooke's oldest) and Tessa on their engagement!    Last night Drew asked the BIG ? and Tessa said "YES"!!!    We are thrilled to have her join our family!   Let the wedding planning and fun begin!

Drew and Tessa

Maverick says "The humans are getting married!

We had a leisurely morning.   We went to Ella Mae's Diner for delicious breakfast and then to 11:30 Mass at St. Francis with Father Robert. 

Home to fix the orchids with burlap and jute string thanks to Jim and Lydia.    Vacuumed Flo and the she shed with new Dyson and then relaxed on another hot 'n sunny day.

Love my orchids

Enjoying my fall mum plant even though it feels like the middle of summer!

And Izzy the turtle compliments of Maeve

Brooke told us about this wonderful ice cream!!!

It is deeeelicious!!!

Tessa's bling!

Only 7 on Zoom tonight - we talked about the engagement, Joan is visiting in NC now, travel plans coming for Mike and Theresa, radon mitigation systems, etc.

Enjoy your week.

Saturday - November 9

 Steamy walk this morning but we got in some good steps and then home for English muffins with peanut butter.    Today we had planned to meet friends, Allie and Owen in Punta Gorda for lunch.    But Owen is not feeling well, so they cancelled.    We will be together next Wednesday when they come to visit!    Did 2 loads of laundry and Mark attempted to fix my vacuum cleaner (dead battery?)

 Several years ago Ryan gave us a Dyson vacuum cleaner for Christmas - I love it and it's been a favorite household appliance ever since.   But we've had to replace the battery more often recently, so decided to buy a new one.   We ran some errands and had lunch downtown at The Lodge - always good and so pleasant to sit outdoors with a nice breeze.    Mark found a good deal at Best buy on a Dyson, so ordered online, picked it up, then to Trader Joe's, Publix and on home.

Walked at night, leftovers for supper and called it a day!

This colorful fella is just a few doors away

My BBQ tacos - soo good!   Plenty of leftovers!

Friday - November 8

 Hot 'n sunny Friday.    We walked and then I made breakfast sandwiches (English muffins with sausage, egg, cheese).    Mark left to get a haircut with Jose downtown.   I went to play euchre - small group but we were able to play 3, 4 and 5 handed throughout the morning.   Fun time!

On home for lunch and finished cleaning the pavers!    Yucky job but glad its done (according to Mark)!  😌

We met Steve and Connie at Courtney's.   Many years ago when Mark and I were living on Daisy at Siesta Bay (which was destroyed during hurricane Ian), Connie mentioned this place (on Summerlin on the way to Sanibel).    But we never did eat there.    Then Jewel (my )hairdresser said how good it was and Dale and Betty (owners) were just the best.    Dale is the chef and makes everything from scratch.    So tonight, we finally tried it and wow!    A nice big menu and everything we had was delicious.    Connie and I had the crab cakes, Steve, the veal oscar and Mark, the veal parmesan.   All happy!     As always lots to chat about, laugh and enjoy a very fun evening!

Connie, Steve, Mark, Pat

Have a great weekend!

Thursday - November 7

 HAPPY  BIRTHDAY  MARK!  

Our Patriarch

So blessed to have this guy head up our family - thee best hubby, dad, grandpa!   He's a keeper!!!

A fun day for the birthday boy!    I was off to play canasta (2 tables of 6 and 1 table of 4) and later Jim and Mark picked Lydia and me up at the clubhouse and we were off to Capital Grille for a wonderful lunch.    Alyssa and Nicole were our servers and did an excellent job, we all enjoyed our meals and then topped off with complimentary champagne and dessert for all.    So fun to sit and visit with these two - even though we live close by in the park, so nice to just sit,, relax and chat.   Capital Grille is such a top notch place and so happy Fort Myers has one which opened June 24th.

Yummy cobb salad with sliced tenderloin

Jim, Lydia, Pat and Mark

complimentary champagne and dessert

the "Happy Birthday" was chocolate!

Jim drove and after he brought us home, Lydia helped me with the arranging the orchids in the tree - so pretty!    

Mark loved the phone calls, texts, e-mails and gifts (including delicious chocolates from Jim and Lydia that their son Paul made).    All of our kids and grands checked in + 2 of his sisters called and sang "Happy Birthday"!

Wednesday - November 6

 Today was extremely humid - we went for our walk but whew, 95% humidity is not fun to walk in.

Back home for breakfast and cool down and then I walked to the clubhouse to play RummiKube.   I first stopped at Farmers Market and met Lydia.   I bought a beautiful orchid (2) and she will help me attach to trunk of palm tree where they will bloom!    Lots of people have orchids in the park on their palm trees and they require very little care, so......I asked the lady to hold my orchids for me and went on to play RummiKube.   Just Anita and I showed up, but we played 3 games (I won 2) and had lots of fun visiting - hearing about their awful ordeal of losing their RV in Asheville during Helene and all they went thru...wow!    

I called Mark asking him to pick me up as I had my pretty orchids and the RummiKube and it was very windy.   He came to my rescue and on home for lunch.   He worked on the pavers while I was gone.

Orchids before they go on the tree

Nice quiet afternoon including 2 rain showers that went thru.    We had Lucky 13 tonight - big crowd of 8 tables and holy moly, I won the first game again - $17 tonight!  FUN!

Tuesday - November 5

 An early start to our day leaving at 7:10 with light drizzle.    I had an 8:00 appt. with Dr. Mehalik and they called me in at 7:58, took x-rays and I was outta there at 8:15.    Dr. said I'm at 90% and he gave me an A+.   Still some issues with the shoulder but overall, "you are where you should be with this reverse shoulder replacement from your traumatic injury"

Dr. said "Nothing can hurt your shoulder"....."I could run over it with my car and it would be just fine"!!!!    Well......

Unfortunately, no real progress with my hand and he's not sure what/if any there will be.    But I'll let Dr. Collins deal with that!

We went to Sweet Bean Cafe for delicious breakfast.    At a table nearby, Denise Carlin and friends were dining.   Denise is running for Superintendent of public schools in Lee County. 

We ran a bunch of errands.   Mark got his temporary crown (1.5 hours) and I did some walking and shopping in Target.   It rained off and on (heavy at times)!   Just a yucky day.   More errands after the dental appt. and finally home at 2:10 - SEVEN hours from when we left!

We both took a nap!!!

It's such a toss-up scheduling all our Dr. appts., and the traffic.    Early morning appts., are good as today was awesome - in and out but then we have the rush-hour traffic to deal with.   If we have a later appt., the doctors get backed up and we wait!   Ahhhh...decisions, decisions!

No cleaning pavers today....too bad the rain couldn't take care of that messy task!  

 

Monday - November 4

 Trying to beat the heat so we were walking by 7:30, but still humid!   Did a load of laundry and then ready for canasta at 10 in the clubhouse.

Two tables of 6 played and my group (Vicki H, Sandy and myself) ended up winning after being down quite a bit!   Our opponents were Lydia, Vicki F and Nancy.  Nice way to end the morning!

Came home and Mark said "let's walk, so we did, but it's hot!    short walk, lunch and after resting a bit, we set to work power washing our pavers and she shed.    We are borrowing Jim's power washer and this will take awhile - messy job and I was splattered with dirt!   But eventually we'll get the dirt and grime cleaned from between the pavers!   

Today is my Aunt Marian's 96th birthday!    WOW.....she's doing so well.   Big party for her this afternoon.

Cousin Dick, Aunt Marian

Kaylee and Leia (great nieces)

It's amazing as we drive around town, the number of homes that are still boarded up with plywood from Helene and Milton.   I guess they want to be sure hurricane season is over (especially with more threats coming?) before they remove this protection!

Sunday - November 3

 Hot and sunny Sunday.    Enjoyed the extra sleep and then off to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis Xavier with Father Robert.

We had breakfast at First Watch - hadn't been there in a long time and since it was close to Publix, worked out well.    I LOVE their carrot/pecan pancake ($7.49) and what I usually get.   Mark enjoyed his waffle ($10).   Crazy that 1 pancake and 1 waffle are that much and then put bacon/sausage on top and ouch!

Went to Publix for a few things and on home.    We walked later in the afternoon but stayed inside for most of the day.   

Played 4 games of 2-handed euchre with Mark winning all 4........................arghhhh, he's so lucky!!!!

1 more walk, supper and then zoom....9 on tonight!

Have a good week!

Saturday - November 2

Another very summery day.....we walked, had breakfast and I washed Ruby. 

A quiet day here on Flo.....and then we got alerts on our phones about rain starting?   WHAT???    Nooooo, Ruby is sparkling and I sure didn't know rain was n the forecast.   We played 2-handed euchre (Mark won 2 games) and then went for a walk, but the sprinkles started so we headed back home.   Later we tried it again and Jim was walking past so we walked together (very humid).    And then the sprinkles began again.   We parted ways as he went home and we sat under the clubhouse overhang.   

We can go for days of no rain but if we go thru a car wash or I wash Ruby (1st time this year), the rain will come!    ARGHHH     UGH!!!!

At 7:15, the rain came down heavy for about 45 minutes.   Unreal!!!

Been watching the Iowa/Wisconsin game....Connor and friends are with Liam at the game/

Enjoy your extra hour of sleep tonight!

Friday - November 1

 It's All Saints Day and 49 years ago today, my Grandpa John passed away - 11/1/75.   I remember that day so well.

I played euchre (Friday morning group which had been ladies, but now opening to the guys).   Started out with just 3 of us - Anita, Judy and myself, so we played 3-handed which was new for them but a fun variation.   Anita had to leave, but  Cindy and Todd (newbies to the park from Colorado) came to play.   Todd and I beat Judy and Cindy.   Then Judy had to leave, so the CO folks wanted to learn 3-handed, so that's what we did (I won).    So much fun playing and explaining 2-handed, 3 handed, 4 handed, 5 handed and 6 handed!    All different but unique!

Anita and her husband Jim are full-time RVers and were in Asheville when Helene hit.    They had to evacuate at 3 AM and their campground was heavily damaged along with all but 3 RV's.    Their home was totaled....what a story she had to tell.

I walked home and met Mark and we went to Buckingham Farms for delicious lunch - this is my very favorite for breakfast/lunch.   Mark had a patty melt with broccoli salad and I had the special - salmon Caesar salad.    Both winners!

On home and stayed inside Flo - got to 88 sunny degrees today.

We took another "warm" walk in the afternoon, then supper and onto 7:00 Mass for the Feast of All Saints at St. Vincent de Paul with Father Murchadh O'Madagain (wonderful young Irish pastor).

Last night Philip and family were visiting friends in Georgia, but Luke and friend, Jack had fevers, so not able to trick or treat!  😩

Philip, Luke, Annette, Maeve

Sweet little witch

Enjoy your weekend!

Halloween - 2024

 It's a very warm, sunny Halloween here in SWFL.    The kiddies will have no weather issues trick or treating tonight.   

I played canasta in the clubhouse....Lydia and I walked up together and we had a table of 6 and one of 4.    I have not played this in YEARS, but it's similar to hand and foot and even more so, to hand, knee and foot (just learned that in NC with Annette and her friend Annie).    Met some new gals and good to see others from euchre and around the park.

Back home for lunch, a load of laundry and not much else.   Mark did bookwork while I was gone.

So sad to hear Darla here in the park who passed away yesterday. had bladder cancer and just diagnosed in September.    Everyone stunned by how quickly these health issues can occur.

We went for a walk and then stopped at Big Papa's food truck in the clubhouse parking lot for supper....Mark had the brisket dinner and I had the BBQ sundae (layered beans, coleslaw, pulled pork and pickles).   We brought it back to Flo and scarfed down deliciousness!!!

Walked after supper - most of the park is at the Halloween party but we did not attend!   

Bye bye to October.....wow!    Only 2 months left in 2024!

Wednesday - October 30

 Breakfast with Connie and Steve at Sweet Bean Cafe....a favorite for the 4 of us and Jennifer is just the nicest waitress + maybe the owner?  manager?   Anyway, a great place to meet and catch up.   When we sat down, Jennifer said there was a group coming for lunch/meeting and we would have to be out of our little area by 11.    This was at 9, so plenty of time to yak and we took up every minute leaving right at 11.  😀    

Most of our talk was about the hurricane damage, how they evacuated to friends from their retirement community (Shell Point), etc.    Also our families, health, and that seems to be the main topics these days!    Good bye hugs and we'll be making a plan to get together again soon!

Quiche, fruit and grilled cinnamon bread - wonderful!

Steve and Connie

We had 11:30 dermatology appointments with Dr. Kagen and we both were told our skin was "excellent"!    Always good to hear that!

Stopped at Publix for a few things and on home.    We stayed inside Flo this afternoon....

We've been all over town past few days with all these appointments and the new construction is just crazy.    Lots of building was going on before we left in April - some of that is done, but most in various stages and lots more new including a huge complex for Lee Health.    The new apartments all over are just mind boggling!   Apparently more and more folks are moving to Fort Myers?

A quick little FL rain around 4:30 and then sunshine!   And then more train (minimal) at 6:20.   We walked up to the clubhouse for Lucky 13 and got alerts on our phones about rain starting in 5 minutes.    We were inside but others came in with wet clothing!   These showers came out of nowhere!

Lucky 13 is such a fun form of Bingo and definitely thee most popular activity here in the park.    Since there are many who haven't arrived yet, the crowd was much smaller than usual, but I was the very 1st winner and won $14.    Yeah!!!   

The winner!

So sorry and stunned to hear that Darla here in the park and organizer of Friday morning ladies euchre passed away this morning.....waiting to hear more details, but how very sad.

HAPPY   HALLOWEEN!

Tuesday - October 29

 We were off before 7:30 for our 8:30 dental appointments - we had about 5 minutes to spare....long ways to Dr. Baxmann + rush hour traffic!    Mark has Laura as his hygienist and I have Danielle.   All good with my teeth but Mark needs to have a crown replaced, so going back in a week.  😒

Went across San Carlos to Biscotti Cafe for breakfast (French toast for Mark and cinnamon roll for me) + our coffee/latte.   This is another favorite spot for breakfast or lunch.

Then we ran some errands and Mark had a little shopping spree getting 2 new shirts and a pair of shoes.   I got a pair of shoes, too....on home!    Lunch and then took it easy most of the day.   Mark went to Camping World to get some propane for our grill.   I went for a walk but it's hot 'n humid out there.

Mark grilled out Italian sausages - yummy!    Last night I made spaghetti!   Whoaaa....we're on a roll!    Probably NOT!   😋

We walked - always pleasant in the evening with less humidity.

Monday - October 28

 Cloudy and dreary, but warm all day!    We walked in the morning and then left for 2-hours of errands!   We were here 'n there picking up this 'n that dealing with all the traffic and it's still October!!   Back home to put stuff away, have lunch, do some laundry and take a nap!

Rhonda, here in the park was walking her 2 Australian Shepherds this afternoon.   We talked about our "hands" as she had "dupuytren's" surgery about the same time as I had carpal tunnel (March) with Dr. Collins.    She is still having lots of issues.....ugh!    arghhh!

Meant to mention that yesterday as we were beginning our descent into Fort Myers, the male flight attendant came over the speaker and said "we have a celebrity guest on board" and introduced Alison? who was one of the female flight attendants.   He said she was a runner-up on America's Got Talent.    She sang "You are so beautiful"....not bad and a nice way to end the flight.

Went for our nightly walk!

Friday-Sunday - October 27

 We are back from a fun, chilly weekend in Milwaukee.

Friday - we finished packing and left around 11 stopping at Gulf Coast Landings for lunch at Pei Wei (love our Chinese).    Then to the airport (RSW) for flight to Milwaukee (lots of empty seats) and family wedding.    Nice smooth 2 1/2 hour trip on Southwest and flying over Racine and Milwaukee were absolutely stunning with fall beauty.   For miles and miles, I just stared out my window at the gorgeous reds, oranges and golden trees.   That was a real treat!   We took a taxi to the Doubletree downtown.    Been a long time since we've been in a taxi and definitely not the yellow ones or what we usually see - several big black SUV's were waiting outside airport for passengers.   We were in the heart of rush hour and got dark much earlier than Florida.

Checked into our room and decided we did NOT want to venture out in the cold to get something to eat.    Doubletree had a restaurant (The Avenue), so shared a flatbread pizza and called it a day!

Saturday - we made a plan last night to meet Auntie Karen for breakfast.   Again, chilly morning, so we decided to have the buffet at The Avenue.    Met some of the other family and guests who were staying there.   Breakfast was excellent.    Auntie and I visited in the lobby and then walked across the street to Starbucks for some hot drinks.

Woke up to this pretty sunrise over the city

Leisurely rest of the afternoon watching Notre Dame beat Navy and then getting dressed for Hannah and Paul's wedding at Turner Hall.    Very thankful that Auntie had her car and gave us a ride as it was cold, windy and I didn't really want to walk 4 1/2 blocks in heels.   

So good to see so many family - siblings, spouses, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, etc.    Hannah's Mom was Sue (Mark's sister) who passed away suddenly on October 12, 2020,    Hannah is the youngest of Tom and Sue's 4 daughters.    So along with all the Chamberlains, there are lots of Henkels (Tom's family)!    Wedding, cocktail hour and reception were lovely.    6 bridesmaids in forest green gowns (all different) along with 3  nieces and 2 nephews of Hannah as flower girls and ring bearers.   A friend of Auntie's (Kathy) took us back to the hotel.   Auntie and some other family members were staying at Doris (sister) lake home.

Paul and Hannah

Sunday - it was 36 when we got up and left around 7ish for Milwaukee airport.    Had a nice lady Uber driver who wished she could be tucked in our suitcase and head to FL.  😀

Chili's at the airport serves breakfast - we shared tacos and breakfast potatoes - delish!    Then settled in at our gate with good books, games, etc.

Nice flight (very full) and a warm sunny 82 when we landed!    I got our bags, Mark got the car and we were on our way!   Love these family weddings!!!

We walked over to Jim and Lydia's to fill them in on the wedding festivities as they were unable to attend.    Back home to watch online Mass with Father Jonathan from Port Clinton.

Only 6 on Zoom tonight and mostly talking about the wedding    Our niece Megan (Tom and Beth's daughter) was back  from Japan where she's spending 2 years (1 more to go) teaching English to middle and high schoolers.   She's now on the long flight back to Japan.

WOW....last night many big stars (led by Luke Combs and Eric Church) performed at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte to benefit the folks in western NC who were so hard hit by hurricane Helene.    Several of the performers are from NC...... 82,000 strong attended and raised over $24 million!   AWESOME!!!

Have a great week!

.   

Thursday October 24

 Off at 8:10 for final doctor appointment this week with my hand surgeon, Dr. Sandra Collins at Florida Center for Orthopedics.  But first a stop at Starbucks.  

Dr. Collins asked if my hand was any better - "No" and then did a nerve test which showed slight improvement.   Nerves take a LONG time to heal, so.....one suggestion was eat more leafy greens and come back in 3 months!   Could possibly do some radiation therapy at some point?

Ran a bunch of errands and then met John and Beth at KJ's Steakhouse - had never been, but a very popular, busy place - maybe cause of their $8 burger which included fries and drink.  

Sooo good to see these dear friends and catch up - we yakked and yakked and enjoyed our lunch.   So much to chat about!

John, Beth, Pat, Mark

We stopped at Broadway Palms Theater and got tickets for a buffet luncheon/Christmas show on Christmas Day and we'll join John and Beth, Doug and Charlotte for some holiday fun.

A light supper and then walked and met Paul and Sue from Springfield, IL - had a great visit - they are in charge of euchre and will start that up in January - Thursday nights.

We are flying to Milwaukee tomorrow afternoon for our niece's wedding.    We'll be back Sunday, so no blog for a few days!   Enjoy your weekend!

 

Wednesday - October 23

 Jim came to help Mark with the heavy weights to secure the patio umbrella and so appreciate his help!    With my hand.shoulder, I just can't do it!    THANKS Jim!

I made a batch of BBQ for supper and then drove downtown for a mani/pedi with Alisa - always fun to chat with her and after 3 months, we had plenty to yak about!

Stopped for an iced pumpkin latte at Peter's - Marika looked so cute with her new hot pink dress and matching shoes.    She's such a sweetie!

Stopped for a bag of ice (LOVE getting free bagged ice here in the park) and on home.

Quiet afternoon spent reading and playing games on our Ipads.

Keep forgetting to mention that our great nephew Henry is home from the hospital and recovering.....what an ordeal that little guy had!

We walked in the evening - still pretty warm.   Nice chat with Liam tonight - he's enjoying his sophomore year!

Tuesday - October 22

 Big day leaving at 7:45 for 1st of 3 doctor appointments for me.   Mark was my chauffeur and 1st check-up was with urologist (Dr. Langford); she ordered an x-ray of kidneys to determine if there were any more stones as I  had 2 blasted from right side 2 months ago today in Port Clinton. 

 Then we ran some errands (Dollar Tree, Target, Starbucks) and off to next appt. with my primary physician (Dr. Freeman) all good here + flu shot; lunch at Cristof's (sat on the porch this pretty day) and then to Publix for Mark's flu shot.  Next up was my ENT appt. with Nicole, PA.   She cleaned out the wax in my ears; Stephanie gave me a hearing test (all good) and we talked about the buzzing (like insects swarming around) in my ears (part of the aging process and happens frequently - tinnitus)!    She's giving me a Rx to keep the wax away (baby oil didn't do the trick).    

Last stop of the day was at The Sanctuary (where I had shoulder therapy 2x a week for 5 1/2 months)..    I was able to get right in for the kidney x-ray and on home at 2:45.    We both took naps.

Got a notice that there's a new message on MyChart...........................well, the x-rays were read and posted that I have 2 more kidney stones (this time on the left side)   I yigh yigh!    I wonder what Dr. Langford will have to say about this???    Geez......I know I inherited these stones from my Dad and also the ear wax!  😒

More and more people are coming into the park each day.    Visited with neighbors, Heidi from Michigan and George from Chicago as we were walking and then Jim and Lydia were out and about using sister Joan's cricket (mini golf cart) till they return end of December.    Had a good chat with them!

Monday - October 21

 Warm, sunny and breezy....we left at 7:50 for Mark's eye check-up with Dr. Alessi (all good - vision is 20/20).    I set up an appointment for next April as a new patient.    We both will have all our doctors now in Florida.   Then to the European/American Bakery and Cafe for breakfast (a favorite)!

On home - Mark rested a bit with his dilated eyes away from the bright sunshine.   I worked in the shed and later, he organized his tools and then we washed Flo.    Windows are for another day.

Mark took Big Red for a good cleaning inside and out and after he got home, we put  the cover on just before the rain came.   Another quick Florida shower and the sun was shining the whole time???

Jim came over and visited a bit and then Mark and I walked - nice evening after the rain but only met one other lady.

Sunday - October 20

 Another breezy day....we went to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis Xavier with Father Steve.   Nice to be back and see familiar faces.

Then to The Oasis (a favorite Sunday breakfast spot after church).    Dropped off an American flag from Catrina that was very faded at the American Legion.    Home Depot was next spot and walked in to "CHRISTMAS"......can't believe we're coming into November with the holidays just around the corner, but with the warm Florida weather, does not seem like Christmas!

Christmas at Home Depot

Got some fuel for Ruby and on home.    Mark set to work fixing Flo's hot water heater which was working on propane, but not under electricity.   Got that fixed but also working on hot water heating fluid which has a slow leak.   That issue is ongoing.

I tackled all the bins of clothing in she shed and organized (wintry clothes ready for travel north over the holidays, etc.) - think I have way too many clothes, but was a productive afternoon and hope to finish up that project tomorrow.

Jim and Lydia arrived at CT this afternoon - glad to have us back here together!

We went to Rib City for dinner - sooo yummy - ribs, slaw and BBQ beans + Texas toast!    Rained on our way there - sure wasn't expecting that!

Walked after we got home and visited with Rob and Jonelle

Zoom tonight with 8 siblings - we'll be together next weekend in Milwaukee for our niece, Hannah's wedding.

The Basilica at Notre Dame

and Northern Lights

I 

Saturday - October 19

 Warm 'n windy.    After we were on the go yesterday, we stayed put today and set to work organizing our stuff, taking stuff out of she shed, setting up patio furniture, 3 loads of laundry, etc.    Straightened drawers, too, as things shift and move around when traveling down the road.    Next up is organizing all our clothes!

Been texting with some of the neighbors - most won't be back till January.   

Walked in the park and very few folks out and about - probably all watching Saturday college football.   We couldn't get the Notre Dame game (don't have ESPN but got frequent reports)!   The Irish won beating Georgia Tech 31-13.   Brady is home for a week (fall break) - party at his house with family as his Grand Bob is a Georgia Tech alumnus.

Connor went to the Illinois/Michigan game today with friends and the Illini won also!

Friday - October 18

 Cloudy all day and very windy.   It was a long day for the nomads.    We were off at 9:30 for my haircut with Jewel.    I so enjoy our visits (and haircuts), but today, was very emotional as she told me that her husband, Mike had passed away in July.   We both had a good cry.   I've been going to Jewel for so many years, so knew all about Mike's heath issues and all the stress they went thru with Ian (losing their home and everything.....and now 2 more times evacuating with Helene and Milton).   She took 1 1//2 hours to cut my hair along with lots of chatter.   Jewel is a "Jewel"

Mark was patiently waiting in the car with his I-pad.   We had several other errands including picking up tickets at Barbara Mann Theater, downtown to get Mark's hair cut by Jose, getting Ruby cleaned inside and outside, and final stop at Publix.    While Mark was getting haircut, I walked to Peter's Coffee Shop to see Marika and Stefan and hear about the hurricane damage.   She was so happy to see me (and same for me)....we hugged and she said I was her first "Snowbird" back.  And then we talked about the 13" of water from Helene and 8" from Milton and the damage to their equipment, lost all their German home-made ice cream, etc.    The summer season was not good for them either....sooo hot and wet.   Tourists did not come to downtown Fort Myers.

I met up with Mark and we had lunch at Cabos Cantina - love their Mexican and it was very good, but extremely S L O W service.   Only one waitress working both inside and outside!

We were on McGregor Avenue today - one of the prettiest streets in Fort Myers with tall royal palm trees lining the street from downtown for miles towards the beach.     Wow....so sad to see piles and piles of debris and many of these beautiful palm trees uprooted from tornado that hit before Milton.    And many of the trees still standing were stripped of their palm fronds - just a few very skimpy and tattered hanging from the top.....not a pretty sight!   😔

It was after 4 when we got back to Flo.    We rested a bit and then went for a short walk.   

Last night we had dinner at The Boathouse (Fort Myers) - there is another Boathouse in Cape Coral or I should say "WAS" as last night after closing, it went up in flames.    This popular place was heavily damaged from Ian and closed for 9 months.    Then more damage from Milton and just reopened yesterday morning (they serve breakfast at this location) and 12 hours later, all gone.    How very devastating and huge loss to the community of this waterfront restaurant.

Thursday - October 17

Lots of sunshine, nice breeze and temps in the 70's for our final day of travel.    We left the Loves truck stop around 9:15ish and had a little over 2 hours to Cypress Trail - just the last 22 miles from Punta Gorda to Fort Myers we did I-75.   

Had a nice chat with Connor yesterday - he mentioned he would be voting for the 1st time in the coming election.   Wow....that reminded us that Liam, Connor and Brady will all be voting for the 1st time.   

Next week we'll vote, get our flu shots, and have several doctor appointments.  

Our landscaping  looks good EXCEPT for the bougainvillea which are kinda sad....hope they'll perk up.    With record-breaking amounts of rain this summer, that could be the culprit?  

Went to the Boathouse for supper - we shared the seafood sampler (shrimp, grouper and scallops) and then had the new dessert on the menu - pineappleupsidedown pie which was excellent!

Seafood sampler

Excellent dessert

Oink Oink

We walked around the park and visited with some neighbors and folks who recently returned to CT.

Update on Henry.....he has been diagnosed with mycoplasma - a bacterium that causes infections in different areas of the body.   Although he's still not able to eat, drink or swallow spit, he has a little more energy today.    Prayers most appreciated.

Wednesday - October 16

 Today started out sunny but then mostly cloudy and barely into the 70's.    We left the KOA in Starke around 8:50 and headed on good ole Highway 301 towards the Oakwood Smokehouse in Lady Lake where we met Joe, a high school classmate of Mark's who lives in The Villages.   First part of the trip, enjoyed very little traffic but that came to an abrupt stop when we reached Ocala, Bellview, The Villages, etc.    Crazy......

Had a great lunch and visit with Joe who was with Mark in the class of '65 from Newman High School in Sterling, IL.   They were also in 4-H together, so go waaaay back!  In May, Joe fell and broke his hip so not able to play golf all summer.   But he's doing well and ready to get back on the course very soon,  Joe's wife Maria passed away 6 years ago.    They have 2 daughters who live in Virginia and West Virginia.  Hopefully we'll see Joe at their 60th class reunion next September.

Joe

Onto Auburndale (1 hour, 15 minutes) and after fueling Ruby, I got to our site (they have 10 RV spots here at Loves), found someone in #9.    The staff had to come and ask the young couple to leave - unfortunately, there were 3 other available spots, but no power.    Still problems from the storm but strange that all but 3 have power??   Mark got Big Red some diesel and we got settled about an hour after arriving.   BUSY place right by the ramp for  I-4,   We took a nap, read and then off to meet brother Ron and Vicki and friends at the Miller Ale House.    Good dinner and visit!

Paul, Ron, Sue, Peg, Vicki, Pat, Mark

Yesterday when we were driving thru Folkston, Georgia, we had memories of being here in 2008 (January.....COLD) and I started the blog!    We were here for a week and also visited the Okefenokee (love saying that) Natural Refuge Center.

Tomorrow...Cypress Trail, here we come!

Tuesday - October 15

 Our day started with a trip to Waffle House (Mark loves waffles) - we hadn't been to one of these for a long time.    Good stuff and then back to get Flo and Big Red and away we went on another gorgeous day.    We avoided the interstate again today and once again enjoyed minimal traffic, good roads as we prayed the rosary, I listened to my oldies, etc.    

Stopped in Nahunta, Georgia - since we had a big breakfast, we just wanted a little something around 1:30, and by golly, in this little town, found a nice long parking spot for our caravan and walked across the street to the Frosty Freeze Creamery for some yummy ice cream treats.

Met lots of logging trucks today with huge logs.    Another unique town in South Carolina waas "Stephens Crossroads" but forgot to mention yesterday, the most unusual which made us laugh was "North", South Carolina.

Mark's sister Joan's grandson needs prayers.    Henry is 8 and lives in Arizona.   He's in Phoenix Children's Hospital with some scary symptoms and doctors are puzzled and have not figured this out.    After trips to the doctor, urgent care, on several different meds, Henry asked to go to the hospital?

We are at the Starke/Gainesville NE KOA Holiday Campground in Starke, Florida.   The temp when we arrived at 3:30 ws 83.   

Coming into Georgia, we saw first signs of Helene damage - lots of trees down, blue tarps, etc.   Then miles of everything ok and then more damage...Helene was selective here😞 

Helene/Milton update.....we had heard that 50,000 linemen were in Florida after Milton.   

  And after endless sad, heartbreaking stories and photos from western North Carolina, this morning I was reading (and watching the video) of the couple who lost 11 family members due to mudslides.....what a mind boggling catastrophe.   And tonight the NC folks can expect snow in the higher elevations.   

After supper we walked around the campground.

Today ended Connor's fall golf season - between yesterday and today he shot a 77 and an 80.   His team (Danville Area Community College) won the tournament!    Congrats to all!

Connor (pink shirt) and his golf team + Uncle Tom and Aunt Beth who hosted the team and coach for dinner Sunday night~!