Wednesday - February 11

 Mostly cloudy today but in the 70's....I had a mani/pedi with Alisa at Profiles downtown.   After parking Ruby, I walk right past Peter's, so stopped in for a latte before the pampering!

On home, we had lunch, folded some laundry and then we were off to Captiva.   Stopped at Boops (ice cream, coffee, dessert spot connected with the Bubble Room) for 3 slices of orange crunch cake,    This is really good stuff and I first heard about it a few years ago from Paul, my hand therapist.   So, one slice for Claire, JoAnn and us!

Then to The Green Flash to meet Connie, Steve, Don and Cathy for linner.    Don and Cathy just returned from their Panama Canal Cruise - we were all long-time friends thru bridge.    Don and Cathy moved to Colorado a few years ago but so happy they are back for Valentine's Day.

Lunch was sooo good and memories of being here on Catrina several years ago (we think 2014).   

Final stop was Captiva Cruises (Steve and Connie's son, Brad is part owner) for our sunset cruise aboard the Lady Chadwick.   Today was mostly cloudy and 7 degrees cooler on Captiva than when we left CT.    But by late afternoon, the sun came out and it was perfect with deep blue clear skies.    So much fun to be together....last year when Don and Cathy visited, Steve and Connie were sick so the 6 of us were not able to all be together.

Steve, Mark, Don

Connie, Cathy, Pat

Don, Cathy, Pat, Mark, Connie, Steve

Beautiful ending to our day

Tuesday - February 10

Mark was up at 5 AM to see Marilyn and Jim off to the airport.   We got the she shed back in order converting Marilyn's Motel back to Pat's laundry room!   

Sharon texted about coming over to play games this afternoon.    She and Darrell arrived and we played Swoop (Mark won) and SkyJo won by Sharon.    Another lovey day to be outdoors.   We left at 3:30 for Cooper's Hawk and joined by Jim, Lydia, Tom and Peggy.   Wonderful meals enjoyed by all.    We had a 4:00 reservation and that's the time to go as not crowded at all.   A few hours later....another story!    Said out good byes to Tom and Peggy - they have 2 more days in Fort Myers, so have fun things planned.    Back to CT and said good bye to Sharon and Darrell who fly home Thursday afternoon.    Sure have enjoyed these family visits.   Next up is Doris (another sister) coming in next week.

Peggy, Sharon, Lydia, Pat

Jim, Darrell, Tom, Mark

Monday - February 9

Whoaaa...we are loving this weather - cool mornings and evenings and delightful 70ish afternoons with lots of sunshine!

Mark, Marilyn and I were off to downtown and after we had our treats at Peter's (coffee, muffins and German donuts), Mark left for his haircut with Jose and Marilyn and I went for a long walk around downtown - beautiful morning!    After Mark's haircut we headed home and 1/2 hour later, we left for Rib City and lunch with Mark's family....11 of us met for yummy ribs or other BBQ and sides.   Lots of chatter and fun .

Then to CT and all gathered on our patio for visiting and dessert and Joan made her awesome orange crushes.   What a fun afternoon laughing, reminiscing and catching up.

From Left:

Jim, Joe, Joan, Sharon, Darrell, Mark, Marilyn, Pat, Peggy, Tom, Lydia

Tom (our brother-in-law) and Peggy from IL are enjoying SWFL after 5 days in Key West and then their country and western music cruise to the western Caribbean and now several days in Fort Myers.  

Tom and Peggy  

Sharon (sister) and  Darrell from Louisville, flew in last night and will be in Fort Myers till Thursday night.    

Sharon and Darrell

                                  Joan (sister) and Joe came from Arcadia

Joan and Joe

Jim (brother) and Lydia from CT

Jim, Lydia, Marilyn 

Marilyn from IL who's been with us and flying home tomorrow.

Marilyn with her latte and German donut

Pat, Marilyn, Mark

Marilyn, Mark and I played 3-handed euchre - I won 3 games and Mark won 1.    Lots of fun and I was thrilled with the really good cards I got (sooo unusual for me) 😃

Said our good byes to Marilyn who flies home tomorrow.    Jim will take her to the airport EARLY.   We've sure enjoyed her visit!    She has a list of things she wants to do when she comes next year!  😂

Sunday - February 8

 Another beautiful day....we went to 9:30 Mass with Father Steve at St. Francis.   Then to the Oasis for breakfast.    While we were there, the EMT's came with stretcher and took a lady away in their rescue squad.    Apparently she fainted while in the handicapped stall of the bathroom.    She was sitting up on the stretcher as she left the restaurant.

We picked up a few things at Publix, stopped at ATM and on home.   We 3 all took a nap.   

The L (50th) Super Bowl (February 7, 2016) was in Santa Clara, CA and now 10 years later, LX (60th), the Super Bowl will be played in Santa Clara.    We remember so well 10 years ago as Ryan and the Blue Angels did a flyover - soo exciting.   Mark and I were at Water's Edge RV Park in Okeechobee with Daisy and the campers all gathered in the clubhouse to watch.   Michael's Carolina Panthers played the Denver Broncos - Panthers lost 24-10, but what a thrill for Michael and friends to be there to see Ryan and watch the game.

Blair was in a cheer competition this weekend and her team came in 1st place!   WOW....so happy and excited for them,.    They'll be competing in Florida in early May!    But we'll be back in IL....😒

Jim and Lydia came over in the afternoon.   We played SkyJo (Mark won); 5-handed euchre (Lydia and I won) and then as the temperature dropped and the wind picked up, we moved indoors and had sub sandwiches, chips and brownie bites.   Fun afternoon.

Marilyn and I played RummiKub after they left and I won.   

I wasn't on zoom tonight but sounds like a variety of subjects discussed and looking forward to more family coming tomorrow.

Enjoy the week ahead...

Saturday - February 7

 Ahhhh, our wonderful Florida weather is back!   Today was sunny, breezy and upper 70s.    We 3 left for Buckingham Farms and met Jim and Lydia for breakfast.    What a busy place as they had "Stella's Coffee" trailer there + their 1st market vendors,    Luckily we got a table and Mark and Jim were in line with about 15+ before them.   We girls ordered our coffees....all very good and after breakfast, we checked out the vendors with Lydia and Marilyn buying some cute key chains from Destiny (my hairdresser) and her husband, James.

Marilyn rode home with Jim and Lydia while Mark and I were off to Barbara Mann Theater to get tickets for "Moulin Rouge" for the 4 of us in April.    Can't wait (thanks Anne and boys for this Christmas present)!   And thank you, Claire for recommending it!   Picked up a few things at Trader Joe's and on home.

Lydia and Marilyn went for a ride around the park in their rental golf cart....

Marilyn and Lydia out for a ride

So excited that Janet (Mark's sister) and Michael have booked their VRBO for 2 weeks in 2027 (same one they had this year)!   

We walked and stopped in with some lacy cookies for Jim, Lydia and Marilyn who are playing games under their gazebo.   Later we stopped in for a visit - so much to catch up on with Jim and Lydia since they were gone for a month.    AND, Jim fixed me an iced caramel latte which was delish!

Lydia brought us home in the golf cart.   And later we all went to the Rib Fest (3rd annual here at CT) and a huge success feeding 350+ folks.  The rib folks have been cooking the ribs for past 2 days - they are sooo meaty and tender + baked beans, au gratin potatoes and cornbread.    Sooo yummy and fun visiting with folks.   This large committee does an outstanding job of serving getting everyone thru in very timely fashion.

When the music got LOUD, Mark and Marilyn were ready to head home.    It sure cooled off from the time we walked to the clubhouse.   We played 3 rousing games of euchre with Mark winning 2x and Marilyn, the final game.

A very fun day with beautiful weather.

 

Friday - February 6

Marilyn's plane landed 38 minutes early last night.    Jim brought her to us, Mark got her settled in "Marilyn's Motel" and we all went to bed.

Welcome Marilyn

Sunny day but with the wind, another chilly one.    Those ole palm trees were really whipping around. 

Marilyn and I left for Peter's downtown for our coffee (raspberry mocha lattes for Valentine's Day) - I remember these from last February.   We each had a muffin and then Marilyn got a manicure with Alisa at Profiles.    This is the big weekend of the Arts Festival which brings thousands to town.    Streets were closed off and tents were going up.   It starts tonight and goes thru Sunday evening.

We stopped at Publix to get some decaf coffee and on home.    While we were gone, Mark played euchre with Estelle, Michelle and Beth in the library.

Marilyn and I played RummiKub, had lunch, she and Mark took naps and then we played more RummiKub and finally 3-handed euchre (I won)!   Jim and Lydia picked Marilyn up at 3:30 and they were off for a massage for Marilyn and then dinner at Culver's.    Mark and I had left-over pizza.

So today was a special occasion for our family.   In 2000, Mark bought a GMC 1/2 ton extended cab pickup in emerald green.   We loved that truck and later sold it to Philip who enjoyed it for many years and named it "Kermit" (the frog).   He sold it at some point to his friend Jeff in WI.    And now, 26 years later, Drew is the proud new owner......26 years, 3 generations and 222,222 miles later, it's back in the family!  😀

We wish Drew all the best with Kermit

Shelly

Forgot to include this pic of Shelly and her bag of treasures she bought yesterday.

Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday - February 5

 A very fun day in Fort Pierce.    We left Stuart at 8:40 and headed to Fort Pierce (1/2 hour north) - all these towns (Stuart, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce) run into one another - no vacant land in between.   

We stopped at Publix for a few things and then enjoyed the Old Florida Coffee Co. for breakfast (guava/cheese pastry for Mark and white chocolate/raspberry scone for me) + our coffees.   All delish.   We sat with our I-pads and had some light drizzle off and on.    We met our friends Jim and Shelly from WI at Rosslow's for some retail therapy (Shelly and me) while the guys sat and visited.    So good to see them....our once-a-year visit and lunch (usually in Okeechobee).  Mark and Jim worked together at SF and they moved to WI after Jim retired.  They spend 6 weeks in Cocoa Beach.  

Shelly loved Rosslow's - great ladies clothing, baby/children and gift department.    She has some little ones to buy for, so that was fun + 2 new tops for herself.    Nothing for me....I did my damage in Stuart!

We had lunch at Cobb's Landing - very good and nice 'n cozy indoors with curtains down.   We said our good byes with a hopeful thought of getting together in late April or early May if we're all in Bloomington and can meet at Lucca Grill for an a la Baldini pizza?   Shelly and I LOVE this!!!   So fun to be together again!

Mark, Pat, Shelly, Jim

On home and rained as we were leaving Fort Pierce, but not for too long and later, the sun came out.    But the winds were ferocious and crazy when we got back to CT (gusts at 29 mph).   Good to be home.   Unloaded the car, unpacked the suitcase and made sure "Marilyn's Motel" (aka as the she shed) was all ready for her arrival later tonight.    Jim will be picking her up at the Punta Gorda airport.

We picked up Jim and Lydia and off to the clubhouse for euchre.   5 tables tonight.   Fun but no winnings for Mark or me.

The wind has died down fortunately, but the cold continues!   

Wednesday - February 4

 HAPPY "21st"  BIRTHDAY

LIAM

Liam

Liam Patrick (our 3rd grandson) arrived the morning of February 4, 2005.    We remember so well Patrick carrying his brand new bundle of joy and first-born son down the hallway to meet his grandparents!  

How we wish Patrick could be here to see this young man.  Anne's a proud Mama for sure

  And now 21 years later, he's a junior at the University of Iowa majoring in Computer Science and Math.   He's also working part time and running/swimming/biking keeping in shape for marathons and triathlons.   He's got oodles of energy, loves to cook and has a fun sense of humor.    You make us proud, Liam!!!

Mark and I left CT at 8:40 this morning for our little getaway to Stuart (2 1/2 hours).    We stopped in LaBelle for coffee/breakfast at the Bridge Street Coffee and Tea Co. (aka Charlie's to the locals).   I drove from CT to Okeechobee and then Mark took over.    Parked downtown and I hit the Flagler Avenue shops.    It's been 7 years since we were in Stuart (visited here frequently when we had Daisy in Okeechobee).   Some of the shops are the same, a few different, but so enjoyed strolling and browsing.    Then we went to Sewell's Point for more good shopping (Mark stayed in the car with his I-pad or napped).   I was even offered (and accepted) a glass of wine at a new shop that opened a few weeks ago and still celebrating their "Grand Opening" with wine, cheese/crackers, strawberries, grapes, and little cookies + water to go!   WOW....pretty neat!

We had linner at "Waterfront" - pretty restaurant on the water....enjoyed our meals and then walked a bit, but chilly along the boardwalk.   Checked into our hotel and wound down for the day!

Had a great chat with Liam.....he's had a busy day starting with a 19-mile virtual stationary bike ride with Connor.   He had 4 classes, went for a run, fixed dinner and treated himself to some salted caramel/brownie ice cream!   

Tuesday - February 3

We were down to our lowest this morning at 31, but it warmed up nicely.   In fact, the sunshine felt so good and the best part was no wind!    We got to 67.

I got a haircut with Destiny at 9 and then Mark went to WalMart for a Rx and other stuff.    I left at 10:50 for Cristof's to meet Claire for lunch - no sitting on the patio today and they were busy inside.    As always enjoyed lunch and visiting.   

Pat and Claire

I did some laundry and tidied up the she shed preparing for Mark's sister Marilyn's visit.    She's flying in late Thursday night.   

We went to the 4:00 documentary of "Melania" - the 20 days leading to the inauguration.   It was excellent - she is such a beautiful, classy and fun First Lady.

Then to Bella Mia's for pizza in North Fort Myers - very good.   On home.    Tomorrow we are going on a little getaway to Stuart (east coast) and spending the night.    Thursday, we're meeting State Farm friends for lunch.   And then on back to CT.

Monday - February 2

 Today was our coldest temp of the season @ 32.    And breezy which always makes it feel colder!    I picked up Diane and Lydia so we didn't have to walk to the clubhouse.   Lydia is still using here wheeled walker and too darn cold to be out very long - she and Jim are getting acclimated to this weather after spending 2 weeks in Aruba and 2 weeks cruising.

We were off to play canasta - 32 ladies today.   Started out good with my partners (Beth and Becky) but we ended up losing badly to Margaret, Diane and Cheryl

Took Diane and Lydia home, chatted with Mark a bit (he finished wiping the wax off Flo) and then Jo Ann and Buddy joined us for what we thought would be lunch at Backyard Social.    We weren't sure of this place with the cold weather (big bar and then open area surrounded by food trucks).    Buddy and Jo Ann had never been so we walked around (some folks sitting outside in the sun, but inside was very chilly.)    At least 3 of the food trucks were not open and 2 others were not there?    So....we decided to go to BJ's which is closeby and always good food.    It was cold there, too.....arghhh.   Even the waitresses were complaining???   So we kept our coats on but we all had their special (different combos + a Pizookie) for $13.99    What a deal.   Soup and salad for all (delish) and then Buddy, Jo Ann and Mark had triple chocolate warm cookie in a little skillet with vanilla ice cream and I had a toffee crunch cookie with vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel...................WONDERFUL!!!!

We drove around a bit, stopped at Coffee Rush and on home....oink oink!    Fun time with these great neighbors/friends!

We got to 58 today...but warmer temps coming soon (I hope?)

We've received 4 more Christmas/New Year's cards the past few days....either mail is slow or folks are just getting around to doing their cards?   At any rate, always enjoy getting them.

Sunday - February 1

 Yikes....February came into Florida with cold and wind.   We had 34 this morning but the strong winds made it feel soo cold.    We went to 6;30 Mass with Father Steve - it was cold in church and we had our heaviest jackets on!!!

Stopped at Dean Street Coffee Roasters for coffee and a cheese Danish and on home.   I did some laundry.    The sun feels good though.    Two more very cold mornings coming up before it will finally start to warm up.

We met Mike and Claire, Herb and Dana at Dixie Fish Co., but decided not to stay as folks coming out said it was very cold (it's open air but with curtains and heaters, still COLD).   So next door is Doc Ford's but that was a 1 hour wait - onto Pincher's where they had plenty of room and nice 'n cozy.    We all enjoyed our meals and then to Mike and Claire's on the beach for games (313 and Left, Right, Center) which Mark won both games.    We had some delicious cake and ice cream.    Very enjoyable afternoon out of the brutal cold and wind.   On home.

Mike, Herb, Mark

Claire, Dana, Pat

Zoom tonight was 7 siblings - weather, Jim and Lydia are back from their cruise, restaurant week (we had never heard of this), etc.

Stay warm.....

Saturday - January 31

 Geez.....the last day of January!    2026 is off and running!   (Too fast for me)!

Rained some this morning and we were off to Punta Gorda to meet Allie and Owen at Leroy's Southern Kitchen - we've eaten here a few other times with them and always good.    It was packed today and food was delicious.  We then walked towards a wine/coffee/chocolate shop we've visited before only to find out it was gone???   Sign on the door said they are opening soon at Fisherman's Village.   We asked a lady nearby if she knew of another coffee/bakery in the area.    She suggested "Steph's Bakery" on Marion.   We walked there (it was cold and windy) and found it!    What a gem.    It only opened about 6 weeks ago and has a large variety of pastries and desserts + sandwiches, quiche, soups, etc.    Allie had a scone and rest of us, desserts + coffee.....neat place and very busy on a chilly Saturday afternoon.   Nice write-up in the paper (North Port) about Sergio and Steph Smith's new business venture hanging on the wall.    Also have a large variety of succulent plants for sale.

We sat and yakked and yakked.....then time to say goodbye.   We'll see them in February at their home in North Port.

Allie and Owen

Mark brought in my 4 pots of flowers and put in she shed.    The wind is blowing like crazy, it's cold and then rain started around 6.   UGLY night!   Our NC kiddos are getting lots of snow!

Friday - January 30

 We left CT with Donna and her suitcase for Ella Mae's Diner downtown - so good as always and very busy!   We walked thru the hotel and stopped at Dean Street Coffee Roasters for our lattes (Donna and me) and Mark's decaf Americano.   We all enjoyed our delicious breakfasts and visiting before............time to take Donna to the airport.

RSW was a zoo this late Friday morning - sooo many travelers.   Good bye hugs and as much as I hate good byes, knowing I'll see Donna, Teri and Chris in a month makes me feel much better.   Donna is so much fun - always has us laughing and such a gracious guest.    She loved "Donna's Den" and we loved having her these past 3 days.

Bye bye Donna

After we left the airport and had some time before my 1:00 eye appointment, so we drove to Six Mile Cypress Slough and walked.    Such a neat place that we've heard about (Jim and Lydia have walked this), but we had only driven around the parking lot.    Lots of people out on this beautiful day - the sun was shining, it was 70 and no breeze.    The boardwalk is either trex or wood - great for walking and enjoying all the natural beauty - a real paradise for bird watchers, the various vegetation, and nature lovers.

Then to Collins Vision for a  visual field test.   I then chatted with Yvette (counselor) about my upcoming eyelid surgery (February 12th) and she went over the details and gave me a bag of stuff (antibiotic ointment, cooling mask, silicone gel, and scar gel) plus all the instructions!    I "guess" I'm ready to go!   Yvette had this same surgery just before Thanksgiving - she looks great - she's only 51.

On home....Mark wiped the wax off one side of Flo....she's nice 'n shiny.   Other side, another day!    We had a nice visit with our neighbor Diane (renting 3 doors away) and made a plan for dinner later in February,

Walked late afternoon - tonight is the annual "Beer Fest" in the park, a very popular event.   Mark and I are not into beer, so.....they are serving philly cheesesteaks.   The residents bring beer in from their hometown, state, wherever or whatever is their favorite - hundreds of different brands will be available for taste testing!

Enjoy your weekend!   Another big storm coming.....cold and wind for SWFL.

Thursday - January 29

 Absolutely beautiful day with a high of 70 and felt so good after the cold days we've been having (but they'll be back 😔

We 3 went to Buckingham Farms for delicious breakfast with the curtains down on the sunny patio.    Checked out Booger (the long-time resident tortoise) who was sunning himself.

Donna and Pat (boat sisters)

After breakfast, Mark drove to us to Starbucks (a first-time visit for Donna......WHAT?????)    She ordered her 2nd vanilla latte (ever) - 1st one was yesterday at Peter's.

Donna at Starbucks with her latte

   On home and Donna and I got right back to the RummiKub.    She won!  

Marathon RummiKub the past few days

Mark waxed Flo, Donna and I played more RummiKub, had some snacks and  visited JoAnn and Buddy.    We left at 3:15 for my appointment with Dr. Freeman.    Mark and Donna dropped me off and they went shopping at the beach store near Fort Myers Beach for some souvenir shirts for Donna to take home to hubby Bob.

Had a good visit with Dr. Freeman, and just a short wait till the happy shoppers returned with their purchases.   Onto Connor's for dinner - another favorite place.   We sat on the screened-in porch and all very happy with our meals.

Back to Flo and played a few more rounds of RummiKub and called it a night.   I'm sad that Donna will be leaving tomorrow.   It's been so much fun having her visit and hang out in the she shed (aka Donna's Den)!!! 😀

Wednesday - January 28

 A fun day with Donna starting with a trip to Peter's for breakfast.    It was very busy today - of course, with the chilly temps, no one was sitting in the courtyard, so all the inside tables were full.    They have some new menu items - quiche (Donna loved) and a warm blueberry cinnamon roll (me)!   WOW....we checked out a few shops downtown and on back home.    Mark gave Flo a good cleaning and waxing will probably come tomorrow.

Donna and I played Rummikub (I won) and after resting a bit, we left for The Prawnbroker.   First time in 2 years.....busier than ever but just as delicious!    A long-time favorite.   

Donna, Pat, Mark

 After dinner we drove past the home where Donna and our boat sisters (Chris and Teri) will stay when they come in March.

On home and played more RummiKub which I won again.   Lucky streak going.

By 8:00 we were tired, so called it a day!

So very sad to hear that our long-time friend, Judy passed away today.    We've known Judy thru boating activities and our Mid Illini Power Squadron since the 80s.    She's had Alzheimer's for almost 10 years and Gary has been her very loving and faithful caregiver.  God bless you Judy and her family as they deal with their grief and funeral arrangements

Tuesday - January 27

 Cold this morning - 31 with the windchill.   The sun is shining and breezy and got to 61.   We picked up an Amazon package at the Save-a-Lot locker and then got a few things at Publix.   On home for a few minutes and then to Punta Gorda and Laishley's Crab House to meet Joe and Joan for lunch.    Originally, the plan had been for 7 of us (Joe, Joan, Sharon, Darrell and Donna) to meet today, but the bad weather put the kibosh on that!!!    

We had a great visit and lunch was very good - we all had soup (clam chowder for Joe, Joan and Mark and tomato basil crab for me).    They shared a shrimp basket, Mark had a tuna melt and I had an avocado/crab salad.   Fun time as always with these two. 

Joan and Joe 

On home and took our power naps.😂   We left for RSW (Fort Myers airport) at 3:30.    And about 1 hour later, there was Donna coming down the escalator to baggage claim, but first a big hug.    Mark picked us up and back to CT.    So much to yak about and she thought our weather was wonderful and balmy after the bitter cold she left in Ohio.

My funny sweet boat sister, Donna

After catching up over wine on Flo, we left for Rib City around 6ish.    Great ribs and visiting.   On home and played some RummiKub (to be continued tomorrow).   She's all settled in the she shed....

Monday - January 26

 Today is our last warm day for awhile....I played canasta and helped Barb (2nd time to play) and Alice (1st time).   We had lots of fun and our team along with Margaret and Marilyn beat Denise, Debbie and Sandy.   It rained while we were playing but sure could use more.

On home for lunch and got the she shed all set up for Donna's arrival tomorrow.   

Did some laundry and around 5, we went for a walk, but it's crazy windy and chilly!   It was a "short" walk!   😏

Sunday - January 25

 Beautiful sunny warm day - our last for a while as we'll be in the 60's for several days (poor us). 😔   Been watching the Weather Channel and sure feel for the folks in rest of the country.

Went to 9:30 Mass with Father Robert at St. Francis and then to "Take Two Coffee" for donuts and coffee.    Onto Publix for a few things and then home.   

Did facetime with Annette, Luke and Maeve.   The kiddos are enjoying the snow - remote school tomorrow!    Maeve loves crafts and whipping up goodies in the kitchen.

Making snow ice cream

Crafty girl "decorating" the snow

I'm sure hoping "3rd time is the charm" for our friend Donna who's trying to get to Fort Myers from Columbus, OH, but the weather is having other ideas with the cold and snow.   Plan "C" is that she'll fly in Tuesday afternoon.   Fingers crossed and prayers for all those traveling in the bitter cold, ice and snow.

JoAnn and I played RummiKub in the afternoon.    She had never played - we had fun and she really enjoyed the game.   It was so crazy windy, so we played under their tiki instead of our patio.

Zoom tonight was everyone but Jim, Janet,  and Tom H.    Weather was a big topic, amounts of snow and of course, the bitter cold that's going to stick around for awhile.    Also, talked about Mike's memory issues and his family coming to visit from AZ for he and Theresa's 49th wedding anniversary.   Tom had a dinner tonight (Connor was a lucky guest) and made his specialty lamb using the "sous vide" method.   Tom loves to cook and does an excellent job at everything he prepares.

Have a great week and stay warm!

Saturday - January 24

 14 years ago today, my Dad (Peter Dinges) passed away.    We were in Marathon, FL at the time.   After all these years, he is still so missed - such a great, humble, gentle man!   Love you Dad!

Before it reached the mid 80's, we went for a walk - pretty warm but a nice breeze at 9:30.    Back home and started the laundry and then gave the she shed a good cleaning to prepare for my boat sister's arrival.   Donna's original early morning flight on Monday was canceled but she's scheduled for a later flight on Monday, so fingers crossed this will happen as everyone gears up for the big storm a'brewin!

Buddy and JoAnn came over in the afternoon and we played Dominoes with Mark the winner.    Then we went to a new place for all of us....Slipaway" is in Cape Coral - it's huge just over the College Avenue (Cape Coral bridge) bridge and is a huge place with large bar, 10 different food trucks and live entertainment all on the Caloosahatchee River.   It was packed, but luckily 3 guys were leaving their table and we grabbed it!    We all enjoyed our food (BBQ for Buddy, Cuban for JoAnn, Mexican for Mark and Greek for me)!    Fun afternoon and evening.

JoAnn and Buddy

.

Friday - January 23

 Another very summery day although it started out foggy again...Mark and I played euchre in the library...more lousy cards and Ann and I lost 3 games to Marsha and Mark!   😖

We left at 11:30 for Blossom and Brie - lunch with our long-time boating friends from waaay back - Marcia, Jeannie and Roger.    This has been a yearly tradition for many years as this group (used to be 15-10) spend the winter in Florida.    But today we were down to just 5.   Marcia had been to Blossom and Brie, but new for Jeannie and Roger.   Food was great, place was packed and we walked around afterwards to see the animals.

Said our good byes and hoping to get together later this season when Barb and Roger are in FL.    

Marcia, Mark, Pat, Roger, Jeannie

Got Ruby washed in North Fort Myers and on home.    Walked later....

Weather is the main topic of conversation.   Mark's sister Sharon called this morning saying she and Darrell are canceling their trip - they were to fly in Sunday night from Louisville.   They will reschedule - can't imagine the nightmare for the travel agents or airline employees and of course, all those folks who have to do the plowing, EMT's, first responders, police, firemen and anyone whose job takes them to the brutal outdoors.

My friend, Donna coming in Monday morning from Columbus is still iffy - heavy snow predicted?   We shall see.   The bitter cold is a real concern for sure.

Stay warm and safe this weekend!

Thursday - January 22

 The weather was icky when we got up - very dreary.    Mark wanted a Hardees fix, so off  for biscuits and gravy.   He brought home a biscuit for me.   And then a fun day starting with a manicure with Alisa at Profiles downtown.   Mark took me and hung out at Peter's.  The upper stories of the downtown tall condos were totally shrouded in fog.    He dropped me off at Wisteria Tea Room to meet Claire, Charlotte and her friend Mary Lou visiting from Annapolis.    We had such a nice time - delicious food with lots of chatter.   We had a 1.5 hour time frame and then we said our good byes (another group of ladies arriving for next seating).   When we came out of the tea room, the sun was shining and it had warmed up!

Claire, Pat, Charlotte, Mary Lou

Mark picked me up and on home.   We both took a nap and had a nice long chat with Connor.    

We walked later in the afternoon - very pleasant outside.    Played euchre tonight - fun but lousy cards!   Had 6 tables.

Wednesday - January 21

 Mark went for a long walk (45 minutes and 4700 steps)!   I tidied up Flo and the she shed and did several texts with family and some friends making plans to get together and where we'll eat, of course!!!  😀😋

Our friends, Richard and Linda from Kansas came to Fort Myers today and oh what fun.....we met them in 2016 when their son Lance and our Ryan were Blue Angels.    They've become dear friends since and we've been getting together in FL each winter.   They spend 2 months in Dunnellon but are in Fort Myers for a few days and tomorrow, renting a golf cart and spending the day riding all over Sanibel.  We visited for a while and then off to Buckingham Farms for lunch.    One of our favorites and 1st time this season.   

 What a  surprise to see Marsha from here at CT with her little doggie, Maggie (1st time at BF) and then lo and behold, Buddy and Cindy who worked for several years at CT as work campers but now in Blairsville, GA.    Sooo good to see them.    Lunch was yummy as always and then walked around and showed them "Booger" the large tortoise who's been a resident there for years.  Ole Booger put on quite a show - usually he just sits and never moves, but today, he was s l o w l y on the move.  Richard and Linda LOVED this place.

Richard, Linda, Pat, Mark

Linda, Mark, Richard watching Booger

Dear friends from Kansas

Something we've never seen before was a big tourist bus pull into the parking lot - they had a private luncheon in the barn.    They were from Lakeland (Presbyterian Ministry group)   

On back to CT and showed them around the clubhouse, pool, etc.  We sat on the patio for dessert and more chatter.    They left at 3:30 for their hotel.    Beautiful day with these dear  friends!    

Decided not to play Lucky 13 tonight - but Buddy and JoAnn stopped by for a visit.

Everyone is talking about the BIG storm coming this weekend - yikes, snow, ice, etc. AND bitterly cold temps.    Mark's sister and hubby are flying in from Louisville Sunday night and my boat sister, Donna will be flying from Columbus, OH on Monday....🙏🙏🙏

Tuesday - January 20

A fun day with Claire.   First, I went to "Coffee Rush", a new stand-alone drive-thru coffee/breakfast spot near the Hyatt Hotel.    It opened 2 months ago and the gal at the window said her parents who live in Oregon opened this place and have plans for more locations  (1 in Cape Coral and 3 in Fort Myers)- wow....great news! 

Then onto Anthony's for some retail therapy with Claire.   Went to Bell Tower shops and ended up at the Burntwood Tavern (new place for us) - delicious lunch (we shared an appetizer and flatbread pizza).   Definitely will return.

Cheers...

Bye bye till Thursday when we have more plans.... 

On home and caught up with Mark and our day....went for a walk later and met Bill and Penny from NC who have friends who are friends with our NC kiddos.   They just arrived a few days ago.

Last night we stayed up till the end of the very exciting college football championship game between Indiana and Miami.    Indiana finished the season 16-0 and won the game 27-20....a real thriller!

Monday - January 19

 COLD and breezy this morning with the temperature feeling like 30.   BRRR

Mark was off  to downtown for a haircut with Jose.   I bundled up with my heaviest coat, gloves and earmuffs and walked to Barb's (neighbor) lot and we walked to the clubhouse (Omni room) to play canasta.   The bright sun shining really helped.    Barb had never played so I sat with her and she, along with Vicki and Beth beat Kathi, Brenda and Becky.    Barb did great - so CT has another canasta player.   We had 35 ladies today.

This afternoon we went to Dollar Tree on our way to the beach.    Met Connie and Steve at Doc Fords for a 3:00 linner.   Wow...what a busy place and really packed when we left.  Food was so good with a pretty view of the water but nice 'n cozy inside.  And of course, lots of chatter.    There were folks sitting outside (with heaters)!   Yikes!

  

Steve and Connie

 

Sunday - January 18

 Off to 9:30 Mass with Father Robert this morning.    St. Francis invites parishioners to make a donation for flowers (in memory of,  for healing, etc.) at the Sunday Mass each week.  Mark and I had today with this lovely bouquet "For the living and deceased of the Chamberlain and Dinges families".   The parish office takes care of all the details.

Today would've been my parents 87th wedding anniversary!   Thinking of our parents, Patrick and so many others who've gone before us and all those who are with us.

We decided to try Chocolatte, the new coffee shop downtown (2nd location) but it was packed.   So, got our groceries at Publix and then to Bare Roots, another new coffee place downtown.   Stood in line awhile, and got our food well before the coffees.....but all good!   This is same location as Bennett's Donuts, a Fort Myers long-time tradition of thee BEST donuts.   However, Ian took care of that business and building has sat empty for past few years.   Young couple bought the building and did a major remodel - did a good job and we wish them the best....sadly, NO more donuts.

Few more stops and on home.   The wind has really picked up and the temperature will be dropping throughout the afternoon.    We had planned to play euchre with Larry and Sue, our Canadian friends on our patio, but moving to the library at the clubhouse.    At 1:00, holy moly.................the wind "really" picked up - crazy.   Ran outside to secure any loose stuff as things were a'flyin.

 

We took snacks to the library and had a fun afternoon playing euchre (Larry and I won 2 of 3 games) and Swoop (I won)!    Then to Rib City (1st time for Sue and Larry) and they loved 'em.

Mark, Pat, Sue, Larry

Between Janet and Jim cruising and the Bears game, Zoom tonight was just Joan, Theresa (Beth, visiting) and Auntie Karen.    We cut the session short to get back to the game.

Have a great week and stay warm.  

Saturday - January 17

 Beautiful sunny 75 degree day in Fort Myers.    I did 3 loads of laundry 

It's so bitterly cold around much of the country and yesterday we read it was colder in northern Florida than  Anchorage, AK.   Wow....that's crazy!

Went for a walk and checked the various lots participating in the monthly garage sale.  Nothing we wanted or needed, but did some visiting along the way.   Rode our bikes in the afternoon.

Pat and Paul from Minnesota and Joe and Barb from Illinois arrived back in the neighborhood.

We walked this evening but not many out and about - probably all watching football.

Our nephew, Matt, Elisha, Theo and Jemma from Australia (we visited them in Lakeland a few weeks ago at Ron and Vicki's home) have been skiing in the Canadian Rockies for the past 2 weeks.   Elisha sent some spectacular photos tonight!    That is such beautiful country!

Anne and I played online euchre (Trickster).   We played this so much with other family members during Covid.   Fun - won and lost some games.

Friday - January 16

 Mark's parents would've been married 80 years yesterday - January 15, 1946.   I imagine they were dancing the day away in heaven!

Sunny but COLD here in Fort Myers with a low of 35.   Mark and I drove to the clubhouse to play euchre but first, stopped at Noble Brews for some coffee to warm up.   We so appreciate Kevin coming to the park and hope our residents will give him some good business to keep him coming back.    He will be here next Monday and for sure, on Fridays.

Cute little coffee truck

Estelle and I beat Marsha and Mark 2 games - fun morning!   On home for salads and grilled cheese.   

After our naps, we went for a walk - such a pretty day....cool, but sunny.   We got up to 63 this afternoon.

We picked Janet and Michael up at 5 and off to downtown and dinner at Firestone Grill.   This is always a busy, popular place and we ate upstairs - loved it all.   3 of us had the bacon-wrapped meatloaf and Janet had the butterfish.    So much fun being together one last time.    We walked around downtown - tons of people enjoying this cool evening with it being the 3rd Friday of the month (Art Walk) with streets closed off for the artists and musicians). 

Took them home and one final picture....

Michael and Janet in front of their cute little bungalow!

Tomorrow they are off to Tampa and a week-long cruise - we had sooo much fun (games, golf, lots of chatter, and lots of good eating)   We can't wait for them to visit again!  

  Bon voyage!