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

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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!

Thursday - January 15

 Rained early this morning and then off and on - a dreary day as temperature dropped and became very windy!

Michael and Janet arrived at 9:45.   Janet and I walked to the clubhouse and played Rummikub in the library with Nancy and Marsha.   Fun morning with Janet the winner.

Mark and Michael stayed on Flo with their Ipads.    Janet and I walked home and she printed off several papers for their upcoming cruise.   They were off for shopping and lunch.   Mark and I had a quiet afternoon - a good day to hunker down!

We had leftovers for lunch from the Gatlin show and leftovers from Connor's for dinner.

Diane from Connecticut and a euchre and canasta buddy, arrived yesterday for the season and stopped by - she and her hubby (he's 70 today) are renters so on a different lot each season.    This year they are just 3 doors away - yeah!!!   Diane is from Poland and such a sweet gal.

We played euchre tonight and had a nice crowd of 6 tables - some new folks and the familiar euchre fans.    No wins for us but still fun.

Since it was so windy and chilly, we drove Ruby instead of walk.    This was outside the clubhouse.....waiting for the COLD overnight temps.   Gotta protect the pretty flowers.

Wednesday - January 14

 Mostly cloudy today.    I went to the Farmer's Market and bought some yummy bread from the bakery vendor and also tickets for the rib fest coming to CT on February 7th.

I left to pick up Janet and back here to play canasta.    We were on separate teams and tables and both of us lost!    There were 30 gals playing today.

Janet and I stopped at the food truck (Panini Genie) and bought a Napoli sandwich to bring back to CT.   It was delicious

Mark and Janet's sister Joan came from Arcadia to play games in the afternoon.   we had so much fun - all 3 of us won a game of Pegs and Jokers; I won Swoop and Janet won dominos.    Joan left for home at 5, Michael came and the 4 of us went to Connor's for dinner.    This is one of our favorites and Michael and Janet loved it!    We topped off our dinners with their signature strawberry shortcake - awesome!!!

Joan, Pat, Janet - the Gamers

The siblings

Mark, Pat,, Janet, Michael

On home and called it a day - a very fun day!

Tuesday - January 13

Fun day starting with Mark and I picking up Janet.   She showed Mark their 1925 craftsman Air Bnb home which is charming and roomy.   Off to Peter's for coffee/breakfast - busy place this morning.    The 3 of us sat and yakked.    Michael went golfing.

Janet enjoying her latte and blueberry coffee cake

Janet and Mark having some laughs at one of the Franklin shops

Then back home.   Buddy and JoAnn joined us for dominos (Janet had never played Mexican Train) - fun time with Mark the winner again!   Then we taught JoAnn and Buddy, SkyJo.   Played a few rounds...Michael came to pick up Janet and head to their place and Buddy and JoAnn were off to Publix and lunch.

Serious SkyJo players

Buddy, JoAnn, Janet, Mark (Pat, photographer)

We picked Janet and Michael up at 4:45 and off to Parrot Key for dinner and the Gatlin show.    Janet and I had a delicious chicken dish, Michael, the mahi mahi and Mark, coconut shrimp - all very good  Then Gatlin (Andrea and Darryl) our favorite Fort Myers entertainers, put on an almost 3-hour show singing favorites and once again, a very fun show.   No matter how many times we've seen these 2 (since 2014), they never disappoint.   Michael and Janet loved them and their 1st time to hear this great music.

Janet and Michael

Andrea and Darryl

We heard the happy news tonight that our niece, Sarah (Sharon's daughter) and Daniel are expecting a baby boy in July!

Monday - January 12

 Cooler today with a nice breeze.   Michael and Janet arrived late last evening and settled into their Air BnB.    Michael was off to the Edison Ford Country Club to golf today.   I picked Janet up and back to CT to play canasta.    Janet is a natural at games and although she hadn't played canasta in a year (last year when she was at CT), she plays a lot of hand 'n foot, so similar and she did just fine.     She and I were opponents and alleluia......my team of Cheryl and Anne, beat Janet, Sue and Mary.    Fun morning and I was a happy camper.   

Back to Flo and a light lunch (Mark, too) and Janet and I played rummikub on the patio (she beat me really good).

The siblings relaxing with a glass of wine and I-pads

Todays mail brought the last of the Christmas cards (12), we think?  .    Love hearing from family/friends - many just at Christmastime.

Michael came to CT and we left for Rib City (their 1st time) - very good as always.   

Michael and Janet

1st visit to Rib City

Sunday - January 11

Went to 9:30 Mass with Father Robert.    Today is the feast day of the Baptism of Jesus so officially ends the Christmas season - all the pretty altar decor and poinsettias will be coming down.

Breakfast at The Oasis and as we were coming in, Father Steve from St. Francis was leaving!   I said "Hi Father" and he said "Hi Sister" - he's a character!

Last stop was the flea market - walked around but didn't buy much.    It was the usual busy place with some hefty prices.    Where are all the bargains?

Went for a walk around 5 and visited with Gray and Judy from Morrisville, IL who were out walking their 2 dogs.

Zoom tonight was 8 siblings....Jim and Lydia joined us from Aruba.    Talked about the housing market,  Sharon's husband, Darrell's aunt will be 100 next Sunday.  Tom Henkel watched the Packers/Bears game with Theresa's hubby Mike.    Several siblings will be visiting in January and February.    In fact, Janet and Michael are on their flight now arriving later tonight in Punta Gorda.   Looking forward to a fun week with them.

Saturday - January 10

 Sunny, breezy day.    After breakfast we went to WalMart but stopped at Starbucks on the way.    This Starbucks on the corner of Six Mile Cypress and Colonial was the 1st and only one of its kind in the country.   A new concept of being strictly a drive-thru on both sides of the building.    We were thru very quickly!

Then to WalMart for a Rx and some groceries.   On home.    Did the laundry and Buddy and JoAnn came over at 2 for dominos.   So much fun - Buddy won the first game and I won the 2nd which was shorter as time to go eat!

Fun afternoon with JoAnn and Buddy

Tonight the CT Grillers had a fun and yummy picnic in the parking lot - over 200 people with many golf carts, chairs, etc. came to enjoy Sloppy Joe's, baked beans, French fries and ice cream/brownie sundaes with caramel/chocolate toppings and sprinkles.

Here's an interesting tidbit that Mark came up with concluding all his stats for 2025.    He's a numbers guy!!!

So, since he retired on June 1, 2006 to the end of 2025, there were 7,153 days during that time where we stayed in 1,195 different locations (RV parks, marinas, hotels, with family, friends, etc.)   Years ago, before we settled in the winter at CT or summered on Catrina  in Port Clinton, we moved around alot to air shows when Ryan was a Blue Angel, and other travels.   We really are Nomads!

A few days ago Mark put our weight bench on Facebook Marketplace - we haven't used it in a long time.   We had 11 different responses but after asking about it, nobody pursued it any further.    Till today, a guy from Holland, MI who is a sailor and lives in Estero met Mark in the Camping World parking lot - tah dah....bench is SOLD!!!

So last night was the big game between Indiana and Oregon.   I was all set to watch and shortly after 7 (the game started at 7:30), we lost internet along with folks in our park and beyond.   Have not heard of the cause but I can only imagine the frustration and anger that people were having when they couldn't watch the game - arghhhh.    Anne sent some updates but in the end, we were happy with the Indiana win (56-22)!   GO HOOSIERS!

LOVE my bougainvillea

Friday - January 9

 A beautiful morning at CT.....Mark and I were off to the library to play euchre, but no one showed up???   Last night, some of the newbie's said they were coming, but.....

But all was not lost as when we got to the parking lot, there was Noble Brews (cute little truck with coffee)!   This guy came once last year and plans to be back more this season.    No one knew this guy was coming - last minute decision from Jason, our activities director.    So, no euchre, but I got my coffee.

Then we got some gas for Ruby and on home.   1/2 hour later I was off to meet Claire at Cristof's for lunch.    We had a reservation for 12:30 but since I wasn't playing euchre, decided to meet at 11:30.   We were able to sit on the patio and an extra hour to visit.   We both had the special - beet salad with goat cheese and delicious shrimp - sooo good.   And we shared their wonderful dessert, "tartufo", a ball of spumoni encased in hard chocolate - sooo yummy!

We sat for 3 hours and 15 minutes on the patio - such a pretty day with nice breeze.    We had not been together since September 25th in Bloomington.

Claire and our "Tartufo"

It cooled down around 5:30 so we walked and met new neighbors (on Ann and Duaine's lot) - Robbie and Mike from Minnesota.   They'll be here thru March.

13 years ago today, Mark's dad passed away - very sudden.   We were in Marathon, FL when we got the news....he is so missed by his large family and would've been so proud of all the new great grandchildren who have arrived since.

Have a fun weekend!

Thursday January 8

 Fun morning with Connie and Steve at a favorite breakfast spot - Sweet Bean Cafe (their grilled cinnamon bread is thee best!)

We had a great visit and all caught up (kind of 😄) till next time!

Pat, Mark, Steve, Connie

Rode bikes in the afternoon - all around the park = 3 miles.    My shoulder starts hurting around 2 miles.....guess its the stress and stretching leaning forward and gripping the handlebars?

We had the big breakfast, so no lunch but early supper (I made spaghetti, salad, garlic toast and wine) - all delicious if I do say so myself!!!   😂😋

Played euchre tonight in the ballroom but a very small crowd of only 3 tables to kick off the season?   Cards were not very nice for Mark or me!

Wednesday - January 7

 We walked and checked out the farmers market (1st of the season and a nice variety of vendors).   Back home for a bit and I was off to play canasta and Mark did bookwork.   My partners Theresa, Deb and I had been ahead the entire game and then lost at the end...arghhh!    Maybe next time.    Vicki H, Linda and June were the winners.    24 played today.

I texted Mark that I was finished and he walked to the parking lot where Vesuvius Pizza was today's food truck along with the other vendors.    They have wood-fired pizza and it's very good - we took back an Americano Supreme and enjoyed on Flo.

Later in the afternoon we rode bikes.   It was such a pretty day in the low 80s.

Folks are coming and going here in the park - 10% of the lots are for sale.   Between health issues, getting out of the RV lifestyle or wanting to build or buy a home, those are main reasons.   

Tonight we played Lucky 13 in the clubhouse - big crowd of 133.   I stood 3x, Mark 2x (this is a good thing) but no wins for us - fun evening!

Tuesday - January 6

 Our morning walk started with jackets, but they were quickly shed and tied around our waists!   

Watched the IL State vs. Montana State game to the end last night - ISU lost in overtime 35-34....heartbreaking loss but what a phenomenal season the Redbirds had!

Finally got the bikes out and around the park we rode - got to get back into bike riding as we enjoy this activity and a change from walking.

JoAnn and Buddy came over the in the afternoon and we played dominos (Mexican Train) - they had never played and we had so much fun with Mark, the winner.   Then we went to Rum Bucket for an early dinner - good food and more chatter...

Mark, Buddy, JoAnn, Pat

Fun at The Rum Bucket

Monday - January 5

Foggy start to the day but by 10, all was clear and sunny.   Mark and I walked after breakfast and then I played canasta - 28 gals today....lots of fun, but I lost AGAIN!    Marilyn, Vicki B and I played against Vicki H, Brenda and Dayna.   Walked home and we left for a Publix run (Flo's cupboards and fridge are pretty bare - we did have 2 big-eater college boys with us)    😀😀

But first, had lunch at Gomex Mexican Grill (formerly Patricia's) - really like their food and margaritas.   Then to Publix and on home.

Spent the afternoon reading, games, texts, and a little nap.   Another walk, light supper and then watched the 2-hour Christmas special of  "Call the Midwife" which was aired on the 25th, but I'm just now watching it.    And oh my...I laughed, I cried and it was another wonderful start to what will be the 15th season of this heartwarming series.

Now watching the ISU vs. Montana State FCS championship game in Nashville.  

Go Redbirds!

Sunday - January 4

 The rain started around midnight and was really heavy at times - 45 minutes later it was done, but sure nice for our vegetation and settle the dust a bit.

Went to 9:30 Mass with Father Steve then met John, Beth, Doug and Charlotte at The Lodge.   This is a favorite BBQ place but they serve breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, so that's what we all had - omelets, egg benedicts, biscuits and gravy, corned beef hash, grits, etc.   All very good + Bloody Mary's and a mimosa.

John and Beth leave Tuesday for their new home in Mexico for 3 months.   We'll sure miss them, but hoping we can get together when they return in April.   Not sure when we're leaving FL.    So, big good bye hugs for the 6 of us and on home....

John, Beth, Doug, Charlotte, Pat, Mark

and the big ole bear

At 4:45, we got alerts on our phone that rain was starting in 20 minutes....WHAT?    It was very sunny and such a nice day!   But....at 5, it started to sprinkle and then just got heavier and heavier!   Only lasted about 10 minutes!   And then the rainbow...

Dark ominous clouds behind the rainbow

Had nachos for supper.    Zoom tonight was only 8 siblings.    Karen is back to school tomorrow; Tom and Beth are going to Alaska for 3 weeks in July/August' Joan and Joe are at Rockford airport waiting for flight to Punta Gorda (flight is delayed so a late night arrival for them).    We ended the session about 10 minutes early - not much to chat about.

Enjoy your week

Saturday - January 3

 Today was lots of fun with a trip to Lakeland... (2+ hours north).    We stopped in Arcadia at The Rose Cafe for coffee (Mark had biscuits and gravy, too and I had a few bites - very good and have leftovers).

Ron and Vicki live in Lakeland full time and Bob and Linda arrived Thursday for the season,   Vicki has some health issues and now dealing with bronchitis, so definitely under the weather.

Ron and Vicki's oldest son, Matt, wife Elisha and kiddos (Jemma, 20 and Theo, 17) are visiting from Australia.    They've been here for 3 weeks and will be leaving Tuesday and skiing in the Canadian Rockies for 2 weeks.   Summer break in Australia now.   Always enjoy visiting and catching up!   

Elisha made a wonderful chicken pot pie with so much good stuff and a big tossed salad with veggie.  I brought dessert - tuxedo cake (Costco).

Theo, Matt, Jemma, Elisha

Matt, Jemma, Bob, Linda, Elisha, Theo

Matt, Jemma, Pat, Elisha, Theo, Mark

Mark, Pat, Elisha, Matt, Linda, Bob, Ron

The siblings

Jemma and Theo

Matt and family come over to the states every other year and 2 years ago in December when they were visiting, they came to Fort Myers to see us (after my shoulder surgery) and brought some delicious home-cooked meals - lasagna, cookies made by Jemma, etc. and much appreciated.    They are a very neat family!

Took pictures and on home for us....made plans with Linda for she and Bob to come to Fort Myers and Mark and I going to Lakeland (all in March).   

David, (Ron and Vicki's middle son) gave them an unbelievable binder of Ron and Vicki's genealogy dating back many generations to the early 1800s     A friend of David's put this together (3 months).  I can't imagine the amount of research that went into this project.   Very impressive and so interesting.

We got home at 5:40 just before dark.    Really enjoyed the day and wishing Vicki the best!

More neighbors arrived at CT today across the street - John and Kathy from Kentucky

Friday - January 2

We had a busy morning defrosting the fridge, laundry, walking, and then off to run a few errands including Costco which was a really crazy place.   I guess lots of snowbirds are arriving after the holidays, so stocking up!   A real zoo...........

We decided to have a light lunch and one of Philip's favorite meals is a hot dog (long) and soda for $1.50 at Costco.....good and cheap.   So, Mark and I enjoyed our lunch for $3.28.  

  Can't beat that!  😀

Delish thrifty meal!

On home, put our stuff away, took a nap and finished the laundry.

Blair is relaxing on "our" bench while hiking - favorite trail at Lake James

 (well, that was before my accident)!

Tonight at CT

Enjoy your weekend!