Travels of Pat and Mark

Thursday - February 16

2012-02-16T17:41:00.000-06:00

37 friends (old and new) gathered last night at Sue and Jerry's margarita party. Our host and hostess (with the most and mostest), along with Pat and Brenda did a bang-up job preparing a fantastic array of Mexican fare along with mango margaritas which were oh-so-yummy. It was a great party!

Jerry and Sue

Brenda and Pat

Up early and full day in the air....what fun to fly first class from Fort Myers to Dallas and then onto Seattle compliments of Mark's brother, Jim who had first class upgrades that were going to expire in March and which he graciously donated to us! THANK YOU, Jim!!!!!!

So happy to report that Mark's Mom got an all-clear report from her doctor yesterday and has no restrictions after her surgery 6 weeks ago! Now praying for some relief for his Dad who is having serious arthritis problems in the hips!

It was bright and sunny and oh-so-pretty as we flew across the snow-topped Colorado Rockies!

We are both a little giddy about seeing Ryan TOMORROW and enjoying Hawaii with him and then onto the Stennis!

Nite nite from Seattle.....and onto Honolulu (6 more hours)! Turn up the volume and enjoy a little soothing island music!

Wednesday - February 15

2012-02-15T12:58:00.000-06:00

Our February 15th was rocked big time when we got the news that my cousin, Clarine from Roanoke, VA was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Her husband Bert was an orthopedic surgeon and 3 years ago critically injured in a biking accident that left him a quadriplegic. Clarine called me a few days after Dad's funeral and we had such a good chat with tears, laughs and memories. She was so excited for us going on the Tiger Cruise and said to be sure and tell Ryan how proud they were of him and would be following along on the blog. I am shocked and so very sad...they are flying to Phoenix today where Bert's brother is a neurosurgeon and start her care/recovery.....

This news comes on the heals of another cousin, Dick who is dealing with serious health issues at Mayo Clinic......praying big time for these wonderful people!!! Dick, Clarine and I are all first cousins.

We exercised, finished our packing and now I want to get this blog out early as we are going to a margarita party this afternoon/evening with friends from back home at Sue and Jerry's. We will spend the night with them and then leave in the morning for our Tiger Cruise - Fort Myers to Dallas to Seattle to Honolulu (LONG day of travel with a 5-hour time difference). Just can't wait to see our boy....the Stennis arrives Friday. We'll have 4 days with Ryan in Hawaii before boarding the ship Monday night (20th - also my birthday) and start cruising on the 21st arriving in San Diego the 27th.

Really appreciate all the many good wishes for our safe travels and fun times on this exciting adventure!

Valentine's Day - 2012

2012-02-14T21:53:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!

The windows were wide open today to let the fresh air, sunshine and nice balmy breeze in.....just a beautiful Valentine's Day and I hope you've had a grand day!

Mark ran a bunch of errands, got a haircut and did boat stuff. I did laundry, packed, got a manicure and then we went for a bike ride (1st time since Marathon.........)!!!

Took bikes and helmets to Jim and Lydia to use while we are gone. Mike and Theresa had brought their bikes to FL.....they'll have a great time biking around Fort Myers!

We were treated to a fabulous steak dinner which Mike, Theresa, Jim and Lydia prepared – an awesome home-cooked meal really hit the spot as we've been eating out so much! We played 6-handed euchre and then 5-handed euchre with Mark sitting out – but they had not played these games before, so....lots of fun and laughs!

Pat, Mark, Theresa, Mike, Lydia and Jim

Monday - February 13

2012-02-13T18:31:00.000-06:00

Beautiful sunny day, but cool and breezy. We exercised, tidied up Catrina and then it warmed up and we had a delightful afternoon with Mike, Theresa, Jim and Lydia.

They came aboard Catrina, we cruised in the Back Bay, had snacks and drinks. After docking in our slip, we walked over the bridge

Lydia, Jim, Mike, Mark and Theresa

to SOB (Smokin' Oyster Bar) for lunch----more good stuff!

We took the trolley back to Main Street and walked on home, stopping at the Beach Seafood Market along the way.

Sat on the upper station and just enjoyed the pretty day....

Lydia and Jim

Mike and Theresa

Here's web site I think you would enjoy about the USS Stennis and its air operations

http://www.dump.com/2011/04/16/one-us-aircraft-carrier-has-a-more-powerful-air-force-than-70-of-all-countries-video/

One month ago today, Mark developed his floater and off to Miami we went....just an update, that little sucker is still with him, but he notices it less and less.

Sunday - February 12

2012-02-12T20:03:00.000-06:00

This morning it was darn chilly here in south FL and we laughed when we went to church - lots of folks out walking all bundled up in winter coats, stocking caps, etc....but it's supposed to be for a short duration, so....

After church, we stopped at Publix for a few things and then started in on packing and getting our stuff together - Thursday, we leave for Hawaii and the Tiger Cruise with Ryan aboard the USS Stennis from Honolulu to San Diego! We are just a little excited!!!!!

My cousin, Karen sent this awesome video that makes us so proud and adds another boost to our patriotism .. 2011 West Virginia University Marching Band Armed Forces Salute - YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjPmmCtHmfE

This afternoon we visited Mark's sister, Theresa and Mike and brother, Jim and Lydia who are in Fort Myers for a month! Great to see them and catch up.....then to Doc Ford's for delicious dinner and more chatter!

Theresa, Jim, Lydia, Pat, Mark, Mike

Saturday - February 11

2012-02-11T19:28:00.000-06:00

Big difference in the weather today - cool and very windy! We left at 8:00 for Venice and had a great day visiting with long-time friends. We were dockmates at Reefpoint Marina in Racine, WI for several years. After an hour or so of catching up at Bob and Carol's, we all went to the Venice Yacht Club (what a beautiful facility) for delicious lunch and then we girls shopped Venice Avenue (this is my favorite town in FL). Met the guys and we drove out to the beach, boardwalk, etc. The gulf was wild - big ole waves crashing all over the place! Not a good beach day....that's why the shops were all busy and crowded!

Mark and Barbara

Bob and Carol

Barbara, Mark, Bob, Carol, Mark and Pat

We said our good-byes and arrived back to Catrina at 6:00. Did 2 loads of laundry - wind is still blowing and Catrina is rock 'n rollin'.

Friday - February 10

2012-02-10T18:32:00.000-06:00

Boy the weatherman sure missed today's forecast which called for a rainy, cloudy day! And tah dah....it was just perfect with oodles of sunshine and a warm breeze. Friends from back home, Paul and Margaret came on board and we left to cruise on the the Back Bay and then anchored out in Hurricane Bay having drinks, snacks and lots of good catching up!

Margaret and Paul

Mark, Pat, Margaret and Paul enjoying late lunch at Big Game

Pretty flowers here at Salty Sam's Marina

Mark and I went for a walk late this afternoon and met a couple (Bonnie and Joe) from MI who Mark had met in Charleston, SC when we were there this fall (I was shopping) coming down the coast with Catrina. Their RV is in same park we had Daisy last winter! Nice foks and hope to get together when we are back from our Tiger Cruise.

Thursday - February 9

2012-02-09T20:58:00.000-06:00

FUN day with boating friends for our 5th Annual Mid Illini Florida Winter Rendezvous......John and Heather from TN stopped in to see us and Catrina. Along with Fred and Jeanne, we went to Doc Ford's to meet the gang - 8 couples from IL, MO, TN and FL. Great fun catching up with these long-time friends over drinks and lunch sitting outside - windy today and mostly cloudy. Some left for home and others came back to Catrina where we visited more and then at 5:00, 10 of us went to Parrot Key to get a table for dinner and enjoy Frank Turino who performed from 7-10. He's a great entertainer who can sing it all and impersonates Elvis....

Paula, Marcia, Pat, Viv, Heather, Jeanne, Pat and Kathy

Mark, Mike, Glen, John, Ron, Fred, Paul

"ELVIS"

Wednesday - February 8

2012-02-08T20:52:00.000-06:00

Today started out dreary and cool, but around 10:00, the sun came out and oh what a beauty - low humidity, too!!! We exercised, I did some e-mails and after lunch we ran some errands.

Our mail caught up with us today - oh, what a heartwarming big bundle of sympathy cards, notes, photos, etc. - definitely more tears as I read these from family/friends sharing their thoughts and memories. THANK YOU!!!

Friends from Punta Gorda, Fred and Jeanne arrived this afternoon by boat, so...had a nice visit with them on Catrina and then Glen and Paula who live in Fort Myers arrived - great catching up with everyone. We walked to Parrot Key for delicious supper (grouper Reuben) and a delightful evening with good friends, food and music!

Mark, Glen, Paula, Pat, Jeanne and Fred

at Parrot Key

Tuesday - February 7

2012-02-07T19:46:00.000-06:00

A beautiful day in southwest Florida and a great day on the water with good friends.....Connie and Steve, Sharon and Harry and Sue and Jerry (we all used to play bridge together years ago....) came on board Catrina and we sat and yakked away. Left around 11:30 for Bayfront Bistro (favorite of ours and easy to get in and out with the boat). All enjoyed their lunch. Then for a nice long ride down the bay and out onto the gulf.

We all sat on the upper station and more visiting with drinks and chocolates....absolutely gorgeous day and so thankful to have these good friends in our life!

Leaving Bayfront Bistro

Mark, Pat, Steve, Connie, Harry, Sharon, Sue and Jerry

Harry and Sharon

Jerry and Sue

Steve and Connie

The Gulls...

Sharon, Connie, Pat and Sue

The Buoys...

Mark, Harry, Jerry and Steve

Monday - February 6

2012-02-06T20:06:00.000-06:00

Strange day weather wise - sunny and pleasant; then torrential rain and really cooled down; then sun back out and warm again and then more rain??? Weather was a bit confused

We exercised this morning and then Mark took me to Hot Heads on the Beach for a much needed haircut. Claire and Kathy picked me up and we went to Bayfront Bistro for delicious lunch (they treated me for early birthday gift) and lots of chatter. Sooo much fun to be with these gals....last saw them 12/29 when we celebrated Kathy's birthday back home. I'm slipping.....forgot to take a picture! Arghhhh!!!

After lunch we shopped at Santini Plaza - fun shops and they brought me back to Catrina. After the last shower of the day, Mark and I scrubbed the boat and then went to Big Game for supper. There is an old car show going on in the parking lot - lots of people. Walked around - nice evening and hoping for full-time sun tomorrow.

Sunday - February 5

2012-02-05T20:15:00.000-06:00

Hello from Zombieville. This Super Bowl Sunday was a "down" day" for us - all the emotions from the past several days left us dragging and mentally drained!

We started the day with 10:30 Mass at Church of Our Resurrection, then a Publix run. I did 3 loads of laundry, unpacked and straightened up Catrina (more of that coming tomorrow) and Mark worked on taxes.

Mark's cold is much better! Warm sunshine is the best cure!

Connor and Liam with their new roller blades

Cute story to share......Liam so wanted roller blades for his birthday, so that was one of his presents from us. Yesterday was his party and he received several Toys R Us gift cards...since he knew we were giving him the roller blades, he wanted to use his gift cards to buy Connor a pair.....how sweet! Way to go, Liam! You're a STAR ******* in our book!!!

Saturday - February 4

2012-02-04T21:36:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR LIAM, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to YOU

Our sweet Liam is SEVEN years old today! How can that be? We talked to him this morning, he was having a party today and so excited!

Happy 7th, Liam

Annette prepared one of her delicious breakfasts (veggie sandwiches and fresh fruit) and then we left Lake Worth and headed back to Fort Myers. Stopped at the huge flea market which is unbelievable and a real Fort Myers attraction on Friday-Sunday. Lots of people there and we picked up some things, stopped at Cold Stone Creamery for ice cream treats and on home to Catrina. It is a spectacular day....

We skyped with Anne, Connor and the birthday boy. Picked up Paul and Kathy and met Barb and Roger at The Watermark in Naples for excellent dinner......soo good to all be back together in FL. After dinner we went to Roger and Barb's condo in Bonita Springs for more visiting.

Friday - February 3

2012-02-03T21:43:00.000-06:00

We are in Lake Worth tonight hanging out with Annette and her Dad, Dave who is visiting from IL. Got our rental car returned and will be taking Toad back to Fort Myers Beach tomorrow. So good to be here, but bummed that we won't see Philip who is in Chicago tonight and then flying to Dallas late.

After we returned the car, we went to Costco for some good stuff (love this place) and brought home delicious pizza. Played dominoes (I was the DQ). And Annette and I played Rummi Kube with each of us winning a game.

We gradually eased back into the weight lifting this morning after being away from that for 12 days. I got a pedicure and we left Fort Myers around 11:30, stopping at Five Guys for a burger - 1st visit for us and oh my.....delish! Sooo good, gooey and gloppy (may have clogged our arteries just a bit)?

Mark is fighting a nasty cold! Hope the warm sunshine will kick in fast and make him all better!

Anne dropped a flashlight on her toe and broke the little one and now wearing a soft shoe for a week.....bummer!

Hope you all have a nice weekend wherever you are, whatever you're doing!

Thursday - February 2

2012-02-02T20:58:00.000-06:00

We are back on Catrina in Fort Myers Beach - yeah.....77 when we got off the plane tonight! Tomorrow we will head over to Lake Worth and get Toad and spend the night with Annette (Philip is working).

Ron's and Bob's fly to Florida tomorrow morning......we had a busy, productive week and know that our new "star" in heaven is watching over us!!!! Love you, Dad......and miss you so very much!

Wednesday - February 1

2012-02-02T07:18:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to my brother, Ron.....the 6 of us celebrated tonight at Regina Lane's with an excellent dinner topped off with thee best grasshoppers!!!

Ron and his sweet grandson, Caden

Wrote more thank you notes, visited my Aunt Marian and then Mark's folks came....they will use our truck while we're gone, but hopefully, no more severe harsh weather.

Tomorrow we'll be heading back south.....been a busy, productive week!

Tuesday - January 31

2012-01-31T20:44:00.000-06:00

Feels like springtime here in central IL with a balmy high of 56 (sunshine this morning and cloudy afternoon). I wrote thank you notes, and all 6 of us visited "Saint" Judi and her Mom, Betty this afternoon. We had so much fun reminiscing and sharing "Dad" stories from years ago - lots of good laughs!

Had early dinner at The Roadhouse - excellent pizza and now back at Bob and Linda's winding down. We plan to fly back into Fort Myers Beach on Thursday afternoon, so one more big day to wrap up

funeral details.

My Dad kept a diary since he was 19 (1937) and what fun to follow his life thru the years....oh my....just very matter of fact, that was my Dad who did not elaborate or embellish the stories - stick to the basics (weather, what he did, etc.)

I can't tell you how many times that you, my friends, have asked in the past few years, "How's your Dad doing"? I will miss that, but guess if I had to answer, I could say (hopefully)....."very well, thank you"!!!

I can only imagine all the fun he's having up there with family and friends catching up with those who have gone long before him (especially his Mother who passed away when Dad was only 13).

Monday - January 30

2012-01-30T21:00:00.000-06:00

My Dad would've been so proud with the wonderful turnout for his visitation and funeral. From the solemn ceremony by the 4th Degree Knights, to the glorious music, personal homily and then "Memories of Grandpa" written and presented by our nephew, Jason at the funeral. And this was all followed by a most delicious luncheon - thee best cooks hail from my little hometown of Sublette - what a bountiful feast!

Dad was often referred to as a humble, gentle man and I so appreciated all the wonderful kind words that his family and friends used to describe him as they shared happy memories of their friendship with him thru the years.

So good to have Michael and Philip with us, along with Anne and family. Ryan called Saturday morning from Singapore (he's in port for a few days) - sending his thoughts and love wishing he were with us.

Bob and Linda's home has become our headquarters to eat, sleep, laugh, reminisce, and deal with all the details. Along with Ron and Vicki, the six of us are enjoying some quality time together! We have several things to finish up and our plans are to return to FL on Thursday. Catrina has arrived in Fort Myers Beach (hired a boat captain and friend to make the delivery).

Yesterday we had a nice visit and lunch with Mark's parents. His family sure showed their support and love these past few days.....what a grand bunch.

Thank you all again for being "there" for us whether physically or keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. I am so grateful to have each and every one of you in my life. God bless...

Tuesday night - January 24

2012-01-24T21:51:00.000-06:00

On my 3-hour flight from Miami to Chicago this morning I had time to cry, say the rosary and savor my memories of Dad.

Along with his strong faith, was the love for his family and his life's passion, “farming”! After sooo many plantings and harvests, he could enjoy the fruits of his labors.

I can only imagine St. Peter waiting at the Pearly Gates early this morning with a warm “Welcome Pete” and then the joyous celebration as he entered the Kingdom of Heaven and met Jesus, Mom, his family and friends. He is finally home and free of all ailments!

Dad was a Cub fan over the years but would get so frustrated when “they blew it again”!!!! What a thrill it would have been for the Cubbies to win the world series.....but that was not meant to be in his lifetime.

How ironic that both Mom and Dad died on Tuesdays and Mark and I were in Alaska (far north) for Mom and in south FL for Dad's passing.

When we sent out the e-mail to our kids in the wee hours this morning, we immediately heard from Ryan via e-mail – how comforting to hear his thoughts and special memories from so far away. And then he called on my way home and we had a great chat.

For countless times in recent years, I have asked for your prayers for Dad thru so many illnesses, hospitalizations, procedures, surgeries, etc.. and the numerous times we thought “this is it”. But that “power of prayer” did work and I thank you for your thoughtfulness, prayers and love. God bless you all...

Love you, Dad

Tuesday - January 24 - Dad 1917-2012

2012-01-24T04:03:00.000-06:00

Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa Pete

My Dad's life journey has finally ended after 94 years. He died peacefully early this morning, January 24th. Although he struggled for a long time with many health issues, he was a fighter to the end surprising the doctor, nurses and our dear Judi with his endurance.

He was such a dear and loved by all for his gentle manner and politeness. He received outstanding care at the Lutheran Home and they were so fond of Pete with little pet names, teasing and great camaraderie.

I write this with lots of tears but so grateful that he suffers no more and has gone home to Mom, his parents (Dad was only 14 when his Mother died), 2 siblings, family and so many friends! After over 71 years together and then a separation of 2 ½ years, the team of Pete and Alberta are back together!

Monday - January 23

2012-01-23T19:23:00.000-06:00

Hello from Miami......Mark and I borrowed Jane and Joe's car and arrived here about 6:30 tonight. We are settled in at our hotel and I'm flying home tomorrow. Dad's condition is pretty much the same.

Ron, Vicki, Bob and Linda flew home this morning.

We were up early this morning. Got the exercising out of the way and Jane picked me up for 8:00 Mass at San Pablo's. I went for a long walk and Mark waited for the technicians to arrive. The gist of the Catrina saga is that they suspect same problem as the other engine which as Luis put it is "astronomically rare". Joel removed the cylinder head , we have it with us and Mark will take to machine shop close to the airport to be repaired and then on back to Marathon. More on this (so very complicated to me) as the days unfold.

Jane called to see if we wanted to join them for lunch at Baricci's - "YES"!!!! Another awesome lunch and then while Joel worked on removing the cylinder head, we 4 went to the Dockside and played some

Chicken Tracks.

I talked to Angie (nurse) this morning and she said Dad had his best night, and then she pointed out that "There's no expiration date on the bottom of any one's feet"!!!! How true!

Sunday - January 22

2012-01-22T19:35:00.001-06:00

Not much change for Dad.....my niece Jennifer, her husband Jake and nephew, Jason all visited Grandpa today. I had good chat and update from Linda (nurse) this morning. Everyone is amazed at how he's hanging on....

Mark and I walked to Baricci's for breakfast (we love this place) and lo and behold, there sat Jane and Joe. We sat and visited (sharing the latest updates on Dad). Mark and I then walked to K-mart for a few things and they went for a walk with a plan to meet this afternoon and play dominoes. It's been so neat having them close by and talking about Dad, playing dominoes, discussing boat issues, etc.
They are such dear, fun kinfolk!!!

After lunch, J and J came to Catrina and we all walked to the Dockside and played dominoes, had some drinks and snacks. It was a beautiful day and so pleasant sitting by the water. They also taught us to play "Chicken Tracks" another version of dominoes Lots of fun. Mark suggested we go for a dinghy ride late in the afternoon - Jane had never ridden in a dinghy, but she did GOOD and what fun just slowly cruisin' around the marina.

Janie and Joe on Tigger (dinghy)

Judi called with an update after she got home.....all is the same for now. Aunt Marian called, too. Thanks so much for your prayers and kind e-mails, phone calls, texts, blog responses, etc. I so appreciate all of this support and thoughtfulness.

We did Facetime with Michael, Brooke and boys tonight - fun! Just so neat to go into their home and see what they are doing - Lego projects, stuffed animal friends (new one is John), etc.....can't beat all this technology!

Till tomorrow.....

Saturday - January 21

2012-01-21T19:48:00.000-06:00

As I write this, my Dad is still with us defying all the odds after what the nurse and then doctor told me yesterday. His vital signs are slowing down, not eating or drinking, etc. BUT.....Saint Judi reported in tonight and said she wanted to reassure Ron, Bob and I that Dad is very peaceful and comfortable.

My Aunt Marian and cousins, Dick and Gary visited Dad this afternoon......really appreciate that! And all 3 called tonight to talk - how special was that!!!

We had planned on leaving Marathon and actually did take off at 6:52 AM. But 15 miles out on Florida Bay, we had engine problems again...............when the anti-freeze started spurting out from the starboard engine (just got the port engine fixed). The engine overheated, alarms went off and we went back to Marathon. So..............that saga (nightmare) continues! WHAT is going on? Of course, it's the weekend, so Monday morning, Luis, Joel, someone will be here!!!!!

If you have to be stuck somewhere, Marathon is just fine and such a treat having Joe and Jane close by.....I did laundry this afternoon, exercised, and Jane and Joe picked us up for 4:00 Mass at San Pablo. Then to the Moose (Joe belongs back home) for drinks. Had delicious dinner at The Castaway (another winner to put on the list)!

I just finished a wonderful book "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand (true story about WW II). An unbelievable true story of the life of Louis Zamperini - highly recommend this!

Friday - January 20

2012-01-20T19:14:00.000-06:00

Not much sleep last night as we heard the news that Dad was very ill with reports from the nursing home. Ron, Bob and I were told that he may not survive the night. This morning, we met for breakfast at Baricci's and I had a good chat with the doctor. The end is near and they are keeping him as comfortable as possible. Judi, our advocate spent the day at the hospital and had packed a bag to stay overnight! What a dear. They are getting lots of snow, so we certainly didn't want her out on the roads.

We all sat on the boat discussing travel plans and Judi called and we kids got to say "Hi" to Dad. He said "Hi" and then his usual humming. I was very happy to hear his voice. No eating today. We are praying for peace and continued comfort. So ironic that the boys and I are together down here in Marathon.

We had lunch at The Stuffed Pig and then Ron, Vicki, Bob and Linda left for Lake Worth and are spending the night at Philip and Annette's.

Jane and Joe came on board and we took the boat out - needed fuel and Mark donned all his scuba gear and went underwater to clean Catrina's bottom.

Joe and Jane

I know Dad is in good hands with the care of the nurses/aides and Judi right beside him.

God bless them all.

Bye for now....

Thursday - January 19

2012-01-19T20:07:00.000-06:00

Busy day of eating, shopping, domino playing, visiting and more eating!

I exercised and then we rode our bikes to The Stuffed Pig meeting Ron, Vicki, Bob and Linda for delicious breakfast. Mark and I rode the bikes back to Catrina and then he went to Home Depot and CVS. I walked to Publix Square, met the girls and we shopped.

Spent the afternoon at their condo and played dominoes in the warm sunshine. Jane and Joe came by around 4:ish and we all sat and chattered away. Then time to eat again and off we went to Burdine's - very good sandwiches, fries, and hush puppies, topped off with Fried Key Lime Pie (awesome).

Fried tortilla with cinnamon and sour cream, filled with key lime pie!

And so this day ends.... stuffed AGAIN!!!

Pat, Linda, Jane and Vicki

Bob, Ron, Mark and Joe

Wednesday - January 18

2012-01-18T18:17:00.001-06:00

Big day..........Mark exercised and then Ron and all picked us up and we were off to Key West....about a 50-mile trip. We started with a fabulous breakfast at Blue Heaven!

After an excellent breakfast

Linda and Vicki toured the Hemingway Home (home of the 6-toed cats). Mark had I did this in 2008. The guys all started walking and I hit Duval Street and all the shops!

One of many chickens/roosters struttin' around here, there and everywhere!

The girls caught up with me and we browsed and had fun "shopping till we dropped"! Met the guys at Mallory Square and sat and rested for a bit.....we covered a lot of tracks!

Resting our weary bones....

Bob, Linda, Mark, Pat, Vicki, Ron

We had a delicious late lunch at Southernmost Cafe topped off with key lime pie with chocolate oreo crust!

Oh my.....

Brady called us while we were having lunch - such a sweetie. He talked to Grandpa and me and told us how he's doing at basketball and wondered if we had seen Liam and Connor???

Today would have been Mom and Dad's 73rd wedding anniversary...

Tuesday - January 17

2012-01-17T20:01:00.001-06:00

Beautiful day......walked to Jane and Joe's condo and then we all walked to Baricci's for delish breakfast!

Pat and Jane after a healthy, yummy breakfast ready to take on the day!

Jane and Joe planned to head to the beach; I did a load of laundry and Mark cleaned out more cabinets. Joel stopped by with the final bill for Catrina.

Joel - head technician

Mark and I went for a long bike ride - took the papers to the hospital ER to show them they have wrong address for the eye institute in Miami and need to change that so others don't go thru the confusion we did trying to find the place!!! Bascom Palmer is the #1 ranked eye facility in the country, so guess we were at the right place at the right time!

We kept on riding to Outfitters and bought Mark a new bike seat (much more comfy with a gel-type cushion). They were out of my style, so maybe Friday, will get a new shipment in. Stopped at the Tiki Bar on the beach at Tranquility Bay for orange crushes - yummy drinks and sat on the beach and rested.

Then it was back on the bikes for 3 more miles to Catrina (total of 7 today). Judi (Dad's advocate) called and I talked to Dad a little - he said a few more things and "made my day". I talked to Judi and she said she's encouraging Dad to eat (finished all his breakfast) - she told him he had to drink some juice and all his water before he could leave the table!

She's "Saint Judi" in my book!!!

Connor and Liam enjoying the snow back home!

On the beach in Marathon

My brothers and sisters-in-law arrived this afternoon for their first visit to the Keys. The boys picked us up and we went to their beautiful condo at Tranquility Bay Resort. We yakked over drinks and then enjoyed a delicious dinner at Lazy Days.

Mark, Ron, Bob, Linda, Vicki, Pat

Monday - January 16

2012-01-16T19:52:00.000-06:00

Luis Garcia, owner of Marathon Diesel called at 7:45 to say Joel and technician would be here in about 30 minutes for the sea trial. We left on Catrina at 8:30 and all went well! Tah Dah!

Exercised, went for a long bike ride (almost 7 miles) to the beach past pretty homes.

My cousin, fellow Sublettian and dear friend, Jane and husband Joe are visiting in Marathon for 2 weeks. We went to dinner at "Salty's and enjoyed non-stop chatter.

Jane and Joe

Sunday - January 15

2012-01-15T19:06:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Mark's parents on their 66th wedding anniversary!!!!

Beautiful day starting with breakfast at The Stuffed Pig - wow - very good and popular! Then to Publix for a few things, Baricci's for some cupcakes, back to the boat to unload and then to 11:00 Mass at San Pablo's (we sat across from one of the windows that was St. Philip!!!)

After Mass we drove to the beach- soo pretty and met a nice couple from Ontario (Leamington....been there) on their boat.

Gorgeous day at the beach

Back to Catrina, grabbed the dominoes and went to The Dockside for Bloody Mary's and conch fritters. I was the Queen!!! Enjoyed some of the delicious cupcakes (various flavors) and walked around the golf course (1.5 miles) - great bike/walking paths here!!! We all talked to Grandma and Grandpa wishing them a happy anniversary! Then we sat on Catrina's upper station - so relaxing in the sunshine. I even dozed off for a bit. Philip said it was time to eat again....so, off to Upper Crust for pizza that came highly recommended, but found out they are closed on Sunday. We went to Key Fisheries (this 3rd time was the charm as they were so packed previous 2 visits). Very "old Florida" and very good!

The kids dropped us off so we could walk back to the boat and get rid of "some" of the many calories we consumed today. They are now on their way home. After all the excitement from Friday, it was a very fun weekend!

Mark's floater is still hanging around.....could be days or weeks till it disappears - doctor said your brain gradually adjusts and you will not notice it!!!

Saturday - January 14

2012-01-14T20:59:00.000-06:00

Fun day in the Keys.....Annette, Mark and I went to Baricci's Cafe for delish breakfast and then hit the shops. Annette bought 2 pairs of cute flip flops and we got a few groceries. Philip arrived around 1:00 and time for lunch.....off to Lazy Days which was very good (another old FL spot) and so pleasant sitting outside in the warm sunshine. We are in the upper 60's this weekend.

Annette and her espresso martini

After lunch, we stopped at the Tropical Furniture Co. and browsed all the wonderful Floridian furniture and accessories. Then to Sweet Savannah's for ice cream and cupcakes - oh....love this place!

Philip and Annette digging into their treats at Sweet Savannah's!

I went for a walk tonight with the kids to Publix and then the Sandal Outlet (GREAT shop). Back to Catrina for 2 games of dominoes with Philip winning both!!!!!

Wearing earphones so he didn't have to listen to all the whining from the rest of us!

Friday, January 13

2012-01-13T20:35:00.000-06:00

This "Friday, the 13th" will be one for the memory books!!!! Our day started with Mark getting up and saying he had a film in his eye and something was not right. We checked online for an opthamalogist in Marathon and there was one, but when he called, the recording said he had retired. So, he rode his bike to an eye doctor and sign on the door said "Doctor is out of office today for training". He then rode 2 miles to the ER.......Dr. was concerned that it was a detached retina and said we needed to get to Miami ASAP.

So.....the harbormaster, Roy took me to the airport to get a rental car, I picked up Mark and we were off (113 miles from Catrina to the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in downtown Miami). The doctor said Mark should not drive.....yikes....me driving in downtown Miami??? But ya do what ya gotta do!!! Of course, alot of this trip was on 2-lane roads with 45 mph speed limit.

Unfortunately the directions and address were not correct (said it was 17th Avenue, but really Street). AAARRRGGHHHH!!!!!! Finally found this 4-story building (entirely for the eyes) in the heart of a huge medical complex, including 2 hospitals and several specialized health centers. Very comforting and nice to have Philip and Annette with us - Annette had driven to Miami and had planned to spend the night with Philip at a hotel and tomorrow after he finished teaching, they would be coming to see us. So, we sat and waited......long story short. Mark does NOT have a detached retina (Thank you, God). He has a large floater (totally different from what I experienced). Because of his severe near sightedness, he's at high risk for a detached retina and if anything changes, he's to see an eye doctor ASAP. Whew...what a relief. He had a young female doctor who was very thorough in her examination, explained in detail about this and said "someone is here 24/7 if you need to come back". It was quite a happening place!

Because of heavy traffic in Miami on a Friday night and driving in the dark, Annette and Philip made the decision that she would drive our rental car with us back to Marathon. Mark has no restrictions, but could not drive as they had heavily dilated his eyes. We had dinner at The Hurricane and are now settled on Catrina. We (especially me) were extremely grateful that Annette (she's a keeper) got us back here safe 'n sound!

So, that's how our day went! Scary but all is good for now. Philip will arrive tomorrow in the early afternoon. While we were gone, Joel and another technician came and put Catrina's innards all back together. Monday morning.....test run and hope she'll purr like a kitten.

Okay....enough excitement for today. Have a great weekend and remember, if you ever have floaters or something abnormal with your eyes, do get to a doctor ASAP!

Thursday - January 12

2012-01-12T18:32:00.000-06:00

We are back on Catrina after biking to Herbie's for an early supper. When we came out, it had rained (surprise)! Our neighbors here in the marina said it really poured! So....good to be tucked in for the night with full tummys. There are sooo many good restaurants to eat here in Marathon and Herbie's is close enough for a good bike ride and was highly recommended. Been around since 1972 and nothing fancy....just picnic tables (inside) and lots of variety on the menu. One of the specials for tonight was "Liver and Onions" which Mark loves and very seldom has. So, that's what he had and enjoyed it very much (also had strips of bacon with the onions for extra-good flavor....IF you like that sort of thing?) I thoroughly enjoyed my coconut shrimp and conch fritters. We splurged and shared the dessert special...."Herbie's Bananas"......sauteed bananas with warm butter rum sauce, hot fudge, real whipped cream, toasted almonds and a scoop of vanilla ice cream......DEEEEEVINE!!!!!!!!!!

After all the wind from yesterday, today was very calm, warm and sunny this afternoon. I took all the cushions from the upper station down to the dock with cleaning supplies, bucket, hose, etc., and gave them a good scrubbing! Mark continued working on cleaning and inventorying (is there such a word?) his things - Catrina has lots of good storage space, but amazing how we fill all the nooks and crannies. We are going to be so well organized!!!!

After lunch Mark took the dinghy for a ride with West Marine as his destination, but never found it (will check tomorrow on our bikes). I walked to Publix Square for a manicure at Gioia's.

The saga of whatever ails Catrina continues.......the latest is that it is not the manifold exhaust, but rather connected to the hot water heater. If an air lock gets into the hoses, it causes the anti-freeze to overflow and get hot. More on this as things develop!!!

Watching all the news stories about the snow, cold, and strong winds back home......ugh!!!!! Winter has finally arrived in the Midwest and we are very thankful to be down here in the Sunshine State.

Wednesday - January 11

2012-01-11T19:31:00.000-06:00

Threatening skies all morning and 50% chance of rain today. We exercised, cleaned out more cabinets reorganizing, pitching, etc. Few more days of this and Catrina will be so organized!!!

I did 3 loads of laundry and we walked to Biracci's Cafe for yummy lunch (definitely a return spot sometime)! Walked for a while and then bought few groceries at Publix and back to boat just before the rain and wind came (around 3). Rained hard for a while and the wind blew big time. Rain has stopped but still very windy.

This pretty picture was off the stern of Catrina tonight.....

Red sky at night...sailors delight

Tuesday - January 10

2012-01-10T19:22:00.000-06:00

We've had a big day....long walks, bike ride, washed Catrina and Mark had a great chat with his parents and I talked to Dad!!!! Judi, our advocate for Dad is just thee best. She called me tonight and held the phone up to Dad's ear and he said "Hi" - then I did all the jabbering! A real treat for me just to know he was there.

Joel, the mechanic (technician seems to be the title for mechanics now) came and after phone calls back and forth with other technicians, determined Catrina needs a new manifold exhaust, so.....one has been ordered and coming from Georgia tomorrow. They will install once it arrives...............nothing $$$ can't fix!!!!!!!

After we washed the boat, we took off on our bikes to find the Catholic Church which Mark thought was 2 miles away, but it was actually 4 1/4 miles! We did find a very special spot along the way to stop....Sweet Savannah's Bakery and Ice Cream Shoppe. Wow.....very good ice cream and beautiful and flavorful cupcakes and other pastries. We sat in the backyard which was a private garden with pretty furniture, flowery pillows, candles, etc.....My 1 scoop of Heath Bar and Mark's chocolate malt gave us that extra boost to keep on truckin and finally we arrived at St. Pablo's - they have decorated BIG time for Christmas and there is a lovely area that meanders all around with the stations of the cross, statues, benches and so much more - would love to see this at night cause there were lights everywhere!

We walked to The Hurricane for $1 "Taco Tuesdays" - very good and now home resting our tired bods.

Liam and Connor started ice skating lessons tonight and our NC boys are in the heart of basketball!

My brother Bob and Linda are on their way to FL...and so looking forward to visits the next few days from family starting with Philip and Annette this weekend; Bob, Linda, Ron and Vicki, the 17th-19th and then my cousin Jane and Joe will be here for 2 weeks. AND....found out today, their condo is just down the street from where we are! Can't wait for all these folks to arrive for "Fun in the Keys"!!!

Monday - January 9

2012-01-09T19:32:00.000-06:00

A "winner" in the weather department here in the Keys today - picture-perfect warm sunshine and not a cloud in the deep blue skies!!!

Exercised, cleaned, did 2 loads of laundry and Mark has started cleaning and organizing his cabinets of stuff and taking inventory! Joel came onboard - the Yanmar diesel mechanic. He will be back tomorrow - still trying to figure this all out!

I walked to Publix Square and found 2 neat shops (Krazy Larry's and The Leaping Lizard)! Mark walked to Home Depot for his kind of shopping. We enjoyed some appetizers and soup on Catrina tonight!

Been in touch with our nephew John who lives in Hawaii and near where we'll be with Ryan.... looking forward to seeing him and his family when we're there in February.

Sunday - January 8

2012-01-08T19:10:00.000-06:00

Ahhhhh, we are in Marathon - land of swaying palm trees, reggae music, tiki bars, tall fruity drinks, conch fritters, key lime pie and lots of just chillin' out!!!

Left our anchorage at 7:10 and had a nice leisurely trip at 8 mph dodging oh-so-many crab pots along the way. We arrived in our slip at Sombrero Marina at 12:30. Looks like a nice spot for the next 2 weeks with the Dockside Bar and Grill very close. Also nearby is Publix and other shops. We walked for a while and then back to get the bikes and checked out more of the area!

Happy to report Mark's Mom is doing well with her recovery!

Saturday - January 7

2012-01-07T18:34:00.000-06:00

We are in the Keys!!! Greetings from our anchorage near Islamorada on a spectacular January day! Lots of frolicking dolphins swimming along with Catrina, dodging oodles of crab pots and did stop a short time at Gilbert's Marina in Key Largo, but they had no mechanic available and no electricity - said it comes and goes as they are doing remodeling. Everything and everyone.......so laid back down here! Decided, since Catrina was running ok at 8 mph, we would just keeping chuggin' on. We still don't know the definite cause of this anti-freeze spurtin (now doing it on BOTH engines), but cruising at slower speeds works just fine, so? We have a mechanic ready in Marathon to take a look and analyze the situation. He's a Yanmar diesel guy, so.....hope we get some answers as this is quite perplexing to Mark, the mechanics yesterday and of course, me!!! Ha.....no knowledge of this stuff other than looking at and hearing all about the ins and outs of these engines is totally Greek and scares me big time!!!

Well..............how about the Navy capturing those Somali pirates who are now prisoners aboard the USS Stennis? Been reading stories on Google, the New York Times (a reporter has been on board the Stennis) and YouTube. This was quite the dramatic rescue!!!

Here are a few photos from our day...

Beautiful sunrise as we are leaving South Miami

The Captain of my Ship

Swimming dolphins alongside Catrina

And then spectacular sunset

Plus a full moon - sooo pretty over the water on a very quiet, peaceful evening with boats anchored

here and there

Friday - January 6

2012-01-06T18:17:00.000-06:00

We are not in Key Largo tonight as planned..............Philip stayed for breakfast and left at 9. We took off at 9:20 and about 5 miles out, Mark did an engine check and found anti freeze spurting out of port engine!!! ARGHHHH.....turned around and went back to Dinner Key, called Philip to bring us a new radiator cap and now this is where Mark added more info to blog on what happened from then on. BUT, as I was finishing this up for tonight, everything went "Poof" and I lost it all!!!! And it had been SAVED!!!!!!!

Crazy things happening on Catrina.

Short gist of today is we are 20 miles south of Miami at Loggerhead Marina. The mechanic here checked it all out and it's not the radiator cap. Mark called mechanic in Muskegon, MI who had worked on engines, and could possibly be related to the water heater? We will have better idea tomorrow!

Nitey Nite

Thursday - January 5

2012-01-05T20:41:00.001-06:00

Hello from Miami after a lovely day of cruising past tall condos after condo after condo along the way from Fort Lauderdale.

Huge transport ship loaded with boats of all sizes headed somewhere?

Our day started with Philip coming for breakfast and short visit - he was then off to the dentist and we left around 11. We only had 30 miles today, but cruising at 8 mph on the intracoastal takes a while not that we were in any hurry.

Miami skyline

We are at Dinner Key Marina (huge) and Philip will be spending the night with us as he was working in Miami today. He suggested some good Cuban food.....and so, he picked us up at the marina and we enjoyed a WONDERFUL dinner at Las Culebrinas!

Cheers!

Tomorrow we are off to Key Largo...

Wednesday - January 4

2012-01-04T20:00:00.000-06:00

What a big difference today with 65 degrees and sunshine! Mark was up early and very happy that after more investigating, he found a loose wire which needed to be hooked up for the air/heat. We are good to go....he was upset he didn't find that earlier (wasn't from lack of trying). We did our exercises and left Lantana at 8:45. Planning on 5 leisurely days to get to Marathon in the Keys.

We went under 17 bridges with 7 of them having to be raised. The mansions and yachts along the way made for lots of oohs, aahs, drooling, and overall stunned to see all this opulence - one right after the other!

We are in downtown Fort Lauderdale and have been in this area before (by car) and the shops and restaurants of Las Olas.....however, they are all closed up and now doing a major renovation with hopes of bringing back the businesses which suffered greatly from the economy. This all from a security guard we talked to. Enjoyed a nice walk on this pretty day and even picked up a few more things at Publix.

GREAT news.....Mark's Mom was discharged from the hospital late this afternoon. She has a list of restrictions for the next several weeks of no twisting, bending, arching or rotating her spine. She will be having therapy eventually and I, for one, know how very important that is! Now praying for full healing and mobility!

Mark grilled out brats and enjoyed a nice dinner on Catrina!

Tuesday - January 3

2012-01-03T18:58:00.001-06:00

Hello from chilly south Florida! But so happy to report that all surgical procedures were successful today! Mark's Mom is still having a lot of pain which is what her doctor predicted - long painful recovery, but praying for complete success that she WILL be pain free! And Bob and Chuck's kidney stone removal was successful, too! Thanks for all your prayers!

We started the day going to 7:30 Mass at Holy Spirit and then to Midas to have brakes checked on Toad (Mark had new rotors put on in September, but noticed something amiss along our way to FL, so.....they polished the rotors and we are good to go). While we were waiting, we walked across the street (very windy and cold) to a Hispanic grocery store with bakery/restaurant and shared a delicious pastry of some sort stuffed with ham and cheese. Back to get the car and Mark dropped me off for a manicure/pedicure and he hung out on Catrina.

I was finished at 11:15 and we stayed on Catrina (really rocking here in the marina). Strong gusty winds made it feel REALLY cold. Around 3, we drove to West Palm and I walked around City Place (nice shopping area), but spent most of the time in Barnes and Noble browsing. Then to Clematis Street (happening place) and met Philip and Annette for early supper at "Rocco's Tacos" - very good Mexican place in an old building with tin ceilings, brick walls, long, large, beautiful bar and very neat light fixtures - FUN place! Went next door to Starbucks and Philip and I shared a hot chocolate and then back to our cars.....Annette drove home and Philip brought us home and will be using Toad while we're gone for 2 weeks.

We had planned to leave today for the Keys (Marathon), but just too windy and cold. So, tomorrow, hope to be off and take a leisurely trip getting there (140 miles).

Heard from Ryan that our medical paperwork has been approved for the Tiger Cruise. Plans are underway and have our flight arrangements, hotel reservations, etc. taken care of. Now to stay healthy and safe (always looking over our left shoulder when crossing streets)!!!

Mark decided to have our air conditioner looked at when we are in Marathon (we have a small heater we can use and the bedrooms are working fine with HEAT tonight!)

We are to have 26 here tonight with the wind chill! Stay warm wherever you are...

Monday - January 2

2012-01-02T19:22:00.000-06:00

Good day of getting our stuff organized, taking more to the car and a general clean-up inside. We started the day with our exercising and I gave Catrina a good scrubbing outside, too.

Went for a walk this afternoon and Annette came over and we went to Costco and bought more goodies - what a store and it was jam packed! Back to the boat and played rummikube and 3-handed euchre with Mark - not my day for games - I was the big loser! Had delicious shrimp salad for supper (from Costco).

Talked to Mark's Mom and wished her well today....also heard that my cousin, Chuck is having 2 kidney stones removed tomorrow at same hospital as Bob (same doctor, too).

So, Mark and I will be going to 7:30 Mass in the morning and praying for successful surgery for all....

Really cooled off this afternoon and going to be chilly next few days (especially at night), but sounds like a cold spell is all around the country, so we shall not complain!

New Year's Day - 2012

2012-01-01T19:07:00.000-06:00

WELCOME 2012

Although we were all asleep when the clock struck midnight and 2012 rolled around, we did wake up to the sounds of lots of screaming and the countdown and then more fireworks - all from the party goers at The Old Key Lime House across the water from where we anchored. Hope you had a great evening of celebrating and ringing in the new year (or else slept thru it all)?

We left our anchorage at 7:45 to make the 8:00 bridge taking us back to our slip at the Loggerhead Marina here in Lantana. Annette fixed delicious omelets, they left for home and Mark and I went to 10:30 Mass at Holy Spirit.

After church we tackled all the stuff sitting here, there and everywhere on Catrina - got a lot done and hope to finish up tomorrow. Have a glitch in the main salon air conditioning - Mark worked on it for quite a while, but will see what tomorrow brings. Always something with boating!

Around 5:00 we went to Publix and stocked up on groceries - Annette had already bought a some things (bread, milk, eggs, etc.) Came back to Catrina to put away our stuff and then to The Station House nearby for a delicious dinner (I had lobster) - the service was incredible and just a really good dining experience to start the new year!

So many folks to pray for these days, but especially ask you to remember Mark's Mom who is having serious back/spine surgery on Tuesday - also that day, my brother, Bob is having a kidney stone removed!
May God bless them with successful surgery and complete healing.

New Year's Eve - 2011

2011-12-31T21:18:00.000-06:00

We left shortly after 7 this morning from Jacksonville (after another yummy cinnamon roll at Holiday Inn Express). Drove to Daytona Beach Shores and visited my Aunt Dee - great to see her in her lovely 21st floor condo and enjoy fruit, cheese, crackers and tea and a super visit!

Aunt Dee and Pat

On to Lantana and arrived around 2:15 meeting Philip and Annette on Catrina. We unloaded the car with our stuff and took off for an anchorage close by. Beautiful day - 82 and all sunshine. We had drinks and hors d'oeuvres on Catrina's upper deck.

Annette and Philip

Later, we took Tigger (dinghy) to The Old Key Lime House for yummy dinner outdoors. Ahhhh...so good to be back on the water!

Back to Catrina and played 3 rounds of dominoes with Annette winning 2 and one for me. Also, enjoyed fireworks going all around us. We are tired, so going to bed without ringing in the new year at midnight!

Bye bye 2011...it was a very good year!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Friday - December 30

2011-12-30T19:20:00.000-06:00

Our big day of travel started at 7 when we left Franklin, TN (after breakfast at Holiday Inn Express and one of their yummy warm cinnamon rolls for me - Mark had his favorite biscuits and gravy). We had sunshine most of the day as the temps kept climbing (75 was the high) - feels sooo good.

Mark did all the driving again which is fine with me as traffic was really heavy at times (lots of RV's heading south). I read, did e-mails, texts, long chat with my Aunt Marian (dad's sister) and a few little cat naps.

Stopped in Troy, AL for quick lunch and tonight we're in Jacksonville, FL. Had very good dinner at Cracker Barrel near our hotel (another Holiday Inn Express) and now getting ready to lift weights. Both stiff from all the sitting so time to do some serious stretching. We have about 330 miles to Catrina....

Thursday - December 29

2011-12-29T21:27:00.000-06:00

Hello from Franklin, TN. We had a busy morning (especially Mark) loading up the car (he's thee BEST packer), getting the house winterized, etc. Patrick and the boys stopped by for more hugs (sure gonna miss these sweet little guys and their Mommy and Daddy). I got out of the way by having a very yummy lunch with my dear friends, Kathy and Claire at Biaggi's - we were celebrating Kathy's birthday which is tomorrow. So fun to catch up on what we all did for Christmas. And can't wait to hang out with these gals in Florida this winter.

Claire and Kathy (The Birthday Girl)

Mark picked me up at 1:00 at Biaggi's and we were off - such a pretty day for traveling with lots of sunshine and 50+ degrees!

We stopped in Cadiz, KY at Cracker Barrel for supper, but very busy and long wait, so....kept on truckin' on down the road. Amazing that it's only 12/29 and already the Valentine decor and Easter bunnies are out! Had quick supper in Clarksville, TN and now settled here in Franklin.

Nite nite

Wednesday - December 28

2011-12-28T20:10:00.000-06:00

Lots of teary good-byes today......Anne brought Liam and Connor over this morning and we left for Mendota/Dixon to see our parents. Had a care meeting for Dad at the Lutheran Home which went well - his comfort is top priority and I know he's in good hands with their care and concern. Judi, our cousin and retired nurse will be our advocate for Dad while my brothers and I are gone this winter. She came to the meeting also....we are so blessed to have her and she is extremely diligent in her concern for Dad's needs.

The boys in front of the tree at the Lutheran Home

Philip, Annette, Bob and Linda were also there this morning.....then to Dixon and had lunch with Mark's parents at Sandy's and good chat. Please keep Mark's Mom in your prayers as she will be having serious back/spine surgery on January 3rd.

Liam, Connor and their Great Grandma Ruth

Great Grandpa Harland and 2 of his great grandsons

Took the boys home and said our good-byes and lots of hugs for them and Patrick!

So, tomorrow we will be off to Florida (leaving around 1:00).

Tuesday - December 27

2011-12-27T18:53:00.000-06:00

Two little elves came today and boy-oh-boy, what good doobies they were. Anne brought the boys over about 8:15, along with their hockey gear, hot chocolate AND whoopie pies from Starbucks. Liam and Connor helped carry boxes to basement and Grandpa put away (countless trips up and down the stairs past 2 days). We vacuumed, swiffered, dusted, etc. Grandma was so appreciative and paid them for their efforts!

So, we took a mid-morning break and had milk and whoopie pies (red velvet). When we were in Lancaster County, PA this summer, that was the big treat from Amish country. We gave the boys a special pan to make whoopie pies at home along with recipes. After lunch, it was all about having FUN! We put a big safari floor puzzle together (Connor's gift from us) - haven't done a puzzle in eons - fun!!!

Awesome job, boys!

Along with the puzzle, we played crazy 8 and dominoes with Liam the winner.

Grandma and her hockey boys all wearing "Life is Good" shirts

Daddy came at 2:45 to pick them up. FUN day and tomorrow, they'll be back and we'll spend the day with their great grandparents.

Nice to have the house all back in order, spic 'n span and now packing and getting our stuff ready for Florida. Planning to leave Thursday.........22 hours from here to Catrina.

Woke up to snow this morning - surprise!!!! Been dreary, foggy, windy and cold all day. Mark is more than ready to "get outta here" and head SOUTH!

Love this picture....

Brady and his Daddy

The day after.....

2011-12-26T20:23:00.000-06:00

Up and going this sunny "day after Christmas" with Mark bringing up all the plastic bins, boxes, etc., and I dug in taking down ornaments from family room tree (snowmen, patriotic and nautical) and packing all my treasures away - BIG job, but what a nice surprise to have 2 little elves stop by and help - that would be Philip and Annette. They had spent last night with Anne and Patrick and Philip wanted his Dad to go with him to Farm and Fleet (not a place you would have to twist Mark's arm to shop at)! HA! So, Annette said she would take all the ornaments off the big tree in living room and pack away - that's a job!!!!! I was extremely grateful for her help.....even Philip got in the act...

Ahhhh...thanks for changing my snowman switch plates!

Annette "untrimming" the tree

The kids all met at Pub II for lunch (Philip, Annette, Anne, Patrick, Liam and Connor). Can't believe that we all missed phone calls from Ryan today (Anne, Philip and us) - ugh!!!!!!!!!! Darn, darn...he will probably be heading back to the ship and out to sea very soon! He had said earlier he was enjoying his time in Dubai but VERY expensive!

We did facetime with Michael and all yesterday from North Carolina - fun, fun, fun! Sounds like they had a great Christmas, too, and of course, love "seeing" and "chatting" with all of them!

So it was a good day of packing up and storing away most of the stuff - tomorrow, we'll finish up and also enjoy Liam and Connor who are staying with us the next 2 days! The house looks bare and dark tonight without all the pretty lights, but big day behind us and onward to tomorrow!

Mark and I ran a few errands late afternoon and got some "real-deal-after-Christmas bargains"!!! We then met friends, Bill and Charmaine at Panera. They used to live here and were back from Georgia visiting their daughter and family. Fun catching up with them!

Bill and Charmaine

Nasty out there tonight - rain, sleet, etc.....

Christmas - 2011

2011-12-25T21:19:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas and hope you've all had a wonderful day!!!

Mark and I are back home after a very nice day with family. We went to 9:00 Mass, (while we were in church, we missed a call from Ryan - darn)!!! Came home to load up Toad with food and presents and then off to Anne and Patrick's. We settled in to see what the boys got from Santa - oh my....sooooooo much excitement! We opened all our gifts, Philip and Annette arrived with more gifts. Annette's parents, Dave and Judy and Dave's Mom, Dottie came about 1 hour later.

The afternoon was spent enjoying the boys and all their toys, visiting, eating, drinking and being so merry!

We had our big feast (ham and all the trimmings) at 4:00 and later, pie (pecan and apple) with ice cream. Just a very fun day to all be together and celebrate Christmas with family and the real "reason for the season" Jesus' birthday!

Here are a few highlights:

The boys helping Grandpa open his big box?

Anne with her very favorite hot chocolate from Tim Horton's, but watch out....

Liam has his eye on those!!!

Connor and his legos from Uncle Ryan

Annette, her Grandma Dottie and the boys playing cards

(boys are wearing their new Blackhawk jerseys)

Annette, Philip. Patrick, Dave, Judy, Mark Pat

Anne, Connor, Liam, Dottie

THANKS, Anne, Patrick, Liam and Connor for a memorable Christmas 2011...

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T21:20:00.000-06:00

Happy Christmas Eve - hope you are all geared and gussied up to spend tonight and tomorrow with your families and give praise for the birth of our Lord Jesus!!!!!!

Our day started off on a happy note with a phone call from Ryan. He's in Dubai on shore leave and sounded good!!!! Praying for his safe return and for all our military that NEXT year they will be "HOME FOR CHRISTMAS"

Been in the kitchen off and on today preparing goodies for our gatherings. Mark ran some errands and even hit the grocery store one last time (hopefully) with all the other last-minute shoppers. Enjoyed another very mild, sunny day!

Anne, Patrick, Liam and Connor came for supper (stromboli and soup) after 4:30 Mass. The boys are just a tad bit excited - ha!!!!!

May visions of sugar plums be dancing in these little guys heads all night long...

Sweet dreams!

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care....

Mark and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!!

Friday - December 23

2011-12-23T19:38:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD, GRANDPA and GREAT GRANDPA PETE

94 years young!!!

We partied in Mendota with Dad today. Linda and I brought in lunch and we enjoyed the day celebrating this big milestone for Dad. He especially enjoyed his red velvet cake and peppermint ice cream.

Liam and Connor (2 of Great Grandpa Pete's 8 great grandchildren)

The birthday cake with "PETE" candles

Back: Linda, Jason, Mark, Jennifer, Pat and Bob

Front: Jim (cousin), Liam, Dad, Connor, Patrick

Michael did facetime on his I-Phone with Grandpa so he could see the clan from North Carolina and they could see him.

It was very pretty and sunny out! Dad was so tired at the end of his big day, so hoping he was able to take a good nap after we all left. Wished everyone Merry Christmas greetings and on home.

Had a good chat with Mark's parents on our way. Hope your Christmas preparations are under control! Happy Christmas Eve.....

Thursday - December 22

2011-12-22T20:34:00.000-06:00

It's snowing out tonight - not supposed to have any accumulation and no White Christmas predicted!

We ran some errands this morning and went to nursing home to visit Mary, Patrick's Mom but she was in a very deep sleep. Then we were off to Panera and met long-time friends Wayne and Myrna for lunch and good catch-up visit.

Myrna and Wayne

Took Liam and Connor to see "Chipwrecked" (Chipmunk movie) this afternoon - cute! Then to our house for a while and took them home at 5:30 and enjoyed pizza with Anne and Patrick.

Wednesday - December 21

2011-12-21T22:07:00.000-06:00

Another dreary day (now they say some sun on Friday)? Oh well, with all the pretty lights, decorations and music, it's still very festive!

We exercised first thing this morning and I got a manicure. Came home and did some laundry before lunch with Exchange Club.....sang carols with Ruth accompanying us on the piano.

Back: Joe, Bill, Jack, Lou, Denny, Don, Dale, Jim, Lloyd, Earl, Jeremy and David

Front: Dick, Mike, Pat and Ruth

Mark and I went to Connor's Advent Service and Live Nativity with the 2 kindergarten classes. It was so well done and so proud of Connor as he thanked everyone for coming and then "Please join us in singing Happy Birthday to Baby Jesus".

Connor and Mrs. Nelson

Went to Swinger's for dinner with Barb, Roger, Paul and Kathy - fun time with good food and lots of chatter.

We have our forms filled out (mainly medical) and airline tickets for the Navy Tiger Cruise in February. We'll be cruising on the USS Stennis with Ryan and shipmates on February 21-27th from Honolulu to

San Diego. Very excited about this as we had to cancel in March, 2010 because of our accident in

St. Pete, FL

Tuesday - December 20

2011-12-20T20:30:00.001-06:00

A miserable day of cold, damp drizzle all day long! Met Claire and Kathy at 8:00 Mass and then 2-hour breakfast and chatter at Coffee Hound. Kathy and I then took dinner to a long-time friend, Cathy, who is recovering from surgery. It was so good to see her and that she's doing well.

Home for a bit; and what a surprise to come into the kitchen and see food sitting all over the place. Saturday night at Mark's family Christmas, he was talking to his brother, Tom about expiration dates on food and what can happen. Tom told about a recent story of a little boy who had pancakes and unknown to the family, the date on the pancake box had expired and the little boy became very ill and almost died. The doctor told the family to always follow expiration dates. So.........Mark decided to go thru all the cupboards, pantry, etc. and check all dates (most all cans and packaged food items have a date) - we were shocked at how much had expired. We are gone so much and things just kind of accumulate, get pushed to the back, etc. We threw out a bunch and will try and control this. Just wanted to share this!

We went to Meijer's for a few groceries and other piddlies. This evening we picked up 2 large pans of green beans and took to Safe Harbor to serve to the homeless (70) with my Exchange Club. They had plenty of volunteers, so dropped off the food and came on home - always a humbling experience seeing these folks lining up to eat and very grateful for what may be their only meal of the day.

Still raining out - ugh! Sunshine is to be back tomorrow! December sure has been mild!

Monday - December 19

2011-12-19T20:51:00.000-06:00

Dreary day but balmy with 51 degrees - rain is a'comin!

Met the neighbors for breakfast and then Mark and I got a few groceries at Schnucks. Home to prepare some food items for tonight's dinner with neighbors on either side of us - Marty and Joe. Great visit with these guys!

Joe and Marty

Missed our mailman with 2 last-minute cards, so took them to a mailbox near us.....it was stuffed to the brim with 2 hours till pick-up??? LOTS of cards going out today and that's just one box of many, many all over town!

Hope your countdown this week of Christmas is right on target!

Saturday - Sunday, December 17-18

2011-12-18T20:32:00.000-06:00

Saturday - Mark made a quick run to Dunkin Donuts for treats before we took off for Dixon (he drove his truck which his Dad will use this winter) and I was in the car.    We were surprised to see about 2" of snow which had fallen overnight as we got closer to Mendota (nothing here at home).   Stopped to see Dad at nursing home - not having a good day....

Off to Dixon for family Christmas with Mark's clan.....good lunch and visiting, checked into the Comfort Inn, changed clothes and off to party.    All gathered for 4:30 Mass at St. Pat's followed by bountiful feast at Holloway Center.    Big crowd (including Annette's parents) with so much good food, chatter, presents, etc.    Several went back to hotel for games and more visiting.

Sunday - Bright sunny day.   Breakfast with several of the family; said our good-byes and Merry Christmas wishes.   Stopped to see Mark's folks and then to see Dad who was doing better today.    Met Bob and Linda for lunch at The China Buffet.   Bob and I went back to nursing home.   Mark and Linda went to the house to discuss their new IPhones.    Bob and I visited our cousin, Jim, too, and then back to house for delicious grasshopper pie.   We got home at 5:30.    FUN weekend!

Thursday - Friday, December 15-16

2011-12-16T19:55:00.000-06:00

Thursday - Whoaaa...hang onto your hats today! Very windy and cold out there! Mark took the boys to school. I picked up Sue and we visited her daughter Julie and girls in their new home. It is lovely and Haley and McKenna (twins) proudly gave me the tour!

McKenna and Haley

McKenna, Julie, Haley and Grandma Sue

I had lunch with Claire and Margie at Destihl - fun to catch up with these 2 good friends and can always count on a delicious lunch. Good to be home out of the harsh wind. Mark and I hunkered down with a hot cup of tea, Christmas music and our laptops.

Went to Ed and Donna Rae's for dominoes, wine, snacks; then to dinner at Westminster Village (their retirement home), followed by delightful singing by The Amazons (4 tall gals who are friends and have been singing together for 12 years). Back to Ed and Donna Rae's apartment for more dominoes (I am Queen).

Friday - Cold, but sunny. We both exercised, Mark ran some errands for me (much appreciated). We had some winter coats we no longer wear, so knew the mission would appreciate! Did some laundry, packed for the weekend, and caught up on a bunch of computer things. Patrick brought the boys over after school till Mommy comes from work.

Michael and boys did facetime on the new IPhone - what fun. Michael carried the phone outdoors so we could ooh and aah at all their decorations.

Philip and Annette are anchored out near Boca Raton tonight on Catrina! Lucky them!

Mark and I ran some errands and then had nice dinner at Caffe Italia (had planned to have friends, Wayne and Myrna join us, but unfortunately, Myrna is sick)!

Tomorrow we are off to Mark's family Christmas and also visit Dad....

Wednesday - December 14

2011-12-14T20:37:00.000-06:00

What a frightful day......rain, rain and more rain! But the day started out very nicely when Anne stopped by to pick up some packages and brought me a peppermint mocha - what a sweetheart! I exercised and had a 10:00 hair cut and oh my, the rain just didn't stop - we have a lake in our backyard, streets were flooded and can only imagine if this were all snow??? Also heard some loud cracks of thunder and lightning - very strange for December!

I sent out a bunch of Christmas and "thinking of you" cards to our PEO shut-ins, went to lunch with Exchange Club and straightened up the basement. Mark picked the boys up from school (in the pouring rain) and we are having a sleepover tonight - their Mommy and Daddy are going out for a nice dinner and then tackle the wrapping!

The boys and I got into our jammies, sat around the tree and read Christmas stories.
Love these special times!

Ten days till Christmas Eve!

Tuesday - December 13

2011-12-13T20:49:00.000-06:00

Woke up to fog, drizzle and a very dreary day!!! I had a delightful 2-hour breakfast and chat with Martha at Panera and always fun to be with her! Then home to finish the cards - yeah!!!!

Despite the gloomy weather, it's such a treat when the mailman, UPS or FedEx guys arrive with wonderful cards and pictures from family and friends and lots of packages (we're storing goodies for Anne, too).

Mark and I went to a surprise 99th birthday party for "Aunt" Ginny who is the "real" aunt of our friend, Pat. We've always called her "Aunt" Ginny and what a dear she is. Enjoyed her party and amazed at how great she's doing for 99 years young!

"Aunt" Ginny and Pat

We picked the boys up from school and went to Meijer's for a few groceries and other piddlies. Home to play and then Anne came to pick them up.

Whoa Liam....riding "Sandy" at Meijer's

Mark and I went to St. Mary's reconciliation service at 7:00. More than ever, during this Season of Advent, we think of all who are hurting so - serious health issues, marital, financial and oh-so-many-other matters. May they find peace and comfort. The prayer list seems to grow daily!

Monday - December 12

2011-12-12T21:45:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Michael and Anne

Today was sunny and bright as we remember 41 years ago and the surprise birth and double blessing of two babies!

Mark had an 8:00 eye check-up (we are both finally finished with all doctor appointments) and then we met the neighbors for breakfast. I worked on Christmas cards off and on. Mark met his friend, Darrel for lunch. Anne, Patrick and boys came for supper, presents, etc.

Mark got his new I-phone today and we did face time with Michael who is in Denver tonight. He got to see all of us and we could see him and chat - neat! Gotta love this modern technology which continues

to amaze me!

Brooke called on her I-phone and we chatted with she, Drew and Davis! Really cool!

Anne and her guys!

Saturday and Sunday - December 10 and 11

2011-12-11T21:11:00.000-06:00

This party girl is winding down after a very busy weekend filled with lots of friends, food and fun!

Saturday....Left home at 9:20 and picked up Ann and Debbi and we were off to Peoria for our Sublettian Christmas gathering. Fifteen of us had a "graze and gab" day together at Marilyn's lovely home.. We oohed and aahed over her decor and as we each showed what we bought for Birthright (in lieu of a gift exchange). Darling teeny, tiny baby sleepers, outfits, snowsuits, blankies, towels, diapers and other baby paraphernalia. Wow.....so much fun to shop for babies and such a good warm, fuzzy feeling to be giving to those in need. We did our white elephant exchange, ate some more and said our good-byes several hours later. What a fun day with perfect sunshiny weather and hanging out with long-time friends from our little ole hometown of Sublette!

Back: Carole, Jane, Sally, Joyce, Mary, Ann, Judy, Paula and Anita

Front: Pat, Eileen, Debbi, Rita, Ellen and Marilyn (our gracious hostess)

I got home at 4:45 and started in getting hors 'doeurve ready for next party and doing a few things around the house. Mark had run a few errands and I know HE was ready to party once I got home - ha! We had our Mid Illini Christmas party at Gerry and Linda's - more good friends, food and lots of chatter. Always a good time when this group gets together.

Sunday - Another pretty day. We went to 8:00 Mass, Dunkin Donuts and home to make major waves. Mark was a big help getting house in order and setting up for party tonight. But first, Liam and Connor arrived and Grandpa took them out and about for a few errands and then ice skating - they boys absolutely love this new sport! Anne and I went to a cookie exchange benefiting the boys school - wow.....it was in a spectacular home and the most incredible display of cookies I've ever seen. We were each given a large white bakery box to go around and fill with 4 dozen cookies (we each brought 4 dozen cookies, too). What a beautiful, delicious selection!

And then home to prepare for and entertain Exchange Club friends and spouses. Good turnout and along with chatting and enjoying all the wonderful appetizers, wine, etc., the Bears game provided entertainment despite the outcome!

Mark is snoozin' as I write this and I think I'll be off to dreamland very soon! Busy week ahead but not as much as the past few days! Whew.....lots of fun but ready for a slower pace!

Sweet dreams...

Friday - December 9

2011-12-09T20:44:00.000-06:00

Woke up to our first snow this morning - the rooftops and grass were all white. Liam and Mark were eating breakfast when I left at 7:15 - Connor was still snoozin'. I drove to Mendota to spend the day. Started out with yummy breads/cookies/tea at Bob and Linda's and oohed and aahed over their lovely decorations in their new home. Then to see Dad who was sleepy, but talked a little bit. While he was napping, I worked on the Christmas cards. Met my Aunt Marian for lunch at "Regina Lane", new place that was very good. Back to nursing home to work on cards and visit my cousin, Jim who is there recovering from hip surgery.

Aunt Marian came to visit Dad and Jim and I left around 2:45 to pick up my nephew, Todd at Bob and Linda's. He's been there all week mudding, sanding and preparing garage walls for painting. He rode back home with me. We had supper at Mandarin Garden (Mark, too) and then took him to the train station and he's now on his way to St. Louis.

Good to be in tonight - supposed to get down to 11 degrees by morning.

Philip and friends delivered Catrina from Stuart to Lantana, FL and her new temporary home till we get there in January.

Hope you all have a fun, productive weekend whatever you may be doing!

Thursday - December 8

2011-12-08T21:02:00.000-06:00

BUSY day that went like this:

7:00 - Mass for Immaculate Conception (holy day)
8:55 - Eye check-up
10:00 - Home to exercise
11:00 - lunch with BBB (babies, books, bridge) friends at Central Station
1:30 - Manicure
3:00 - Mark picked up boys from school
3:30 - The boys and I were off to the theater to see Arthur Christmas (cute)
6:00 - Home to make some treats
6:45 - Dinner with Grandpa when he got home from church
7:45 - Bath time
8:00 - Nite nite
8:01 - Grandma collapses

BBB Friends

Back - Holly, Karen, Ruth, Pat and Sue

Front - Sharon

Grandma's little bakers

Silly little "Bear" boys

Wednesday, December 7

2011-12-07T21:32:00.000-06:00

I met Claire at Panera for coffee and chatter (and yummy pastries). Then ran some errands and home for a bit. Mark was out and about, too....and the sun came out late morning! Yeah!!!!

I had Exchange lunch and today we wrapped up our Santa letter campaign - another successful year and the letters are off to North Pole, Alaska for postmark and will be delivered to all the boys and girls around the country.

Donna Rae and Ed came for dinner and dominoes......Mark and Donna Rae were the domino winners. Lots of fun and laughs on this chilly wintry night!

Tuesday - December 6

2011-12-06T21:55:00.000-06:00

Saw the first snow flurries today....Mark and I were up early to exercise. I made 2 chocolate cake rolls with peppermint ice cream and then off to the grocery store. Mark ran some errands and then had appointment with his dermatologist. He then went to check on Daisy who is doing well all tucked in for the winter out of the cold and snow!

I met the Mid Illini gals for lunch, but only 4 of us today at Jim's Steak House. We had lots to catch up on and enjoyed an almost 2.5 hour leisurely lunch.

Ladies in Red

Judy, Pat, Jane and Carol

Last night as I was drifting off to sleep, I had visions of all the stuff I saw yesterday while Linda and I were shopping.....we were in 17 different stores all around town! Hope your shopping is going well?

Monday - December 5

2011-12-05T21:09:00.000-06:00

Met the neighbors for breakfast and then back home to meet Bob and Linda for a BIG day of "browsing" the shops for we girls. We have our shopping done, so.........however, it always seems there a few little things to pick up here and there, stocking stuffers, and on and on and on....

We hit the neat specialty shops around town - so much fun and definitely did more than "browse". Bone-chilling, damp day, though.....burr.....baby, it's COLD outside! Met Bob and Mark at The Red Oak for some good comfort food at lunch time, said our good-byes and off we went for 5 more hours of "browsing"! The guys did their bit, too, going to Farm and Fleet, post office to mail package to Ryan and few other stops. And then home for naps!

The guys picked Todd (our nephew) up at the train station (came in from St. Louis) and we all had supper at Firehouse Pizza.

Mark, Pat, Todd, Linda and Bob

Cleaned up our plates real good, eh?

Then separated our bags and they left for home with Todd. Mark and I are home and I'm thawing out, sorting thru my goodies and he's taking a nap!

Liam and Connor had supper tonight with Chuck E. Cheese.

Liam, "good ole Chuck" and Connor

Sunday - December 4

2011-12-04T21:16:00.000-06:00

We went to 8:00 Mass and then Mark left for Mendota/Dixon to visit my Dad and his parents. I was with my Monday Night Friends for our annual Christmas party - this year a catered brunch at Connie's lovely home in the country (12 deer came thru the yard while we were there)! Always such a fun time with delicious food and drink, revealing our secret pals and then drawing for 2012. This group of 11 gals have been going strong with 3 of us charter members dating back to 1972 which means next year will mark our 40th year of friendship and soooo much fun and laughs, tears and joy! So, not sure what we'll do, but going to plan some sort of

biggie event to celebrate!

Marsha, Jody, Ruth, Connie, Donna, Sue, Pat, Linda, Tamara, Brenda and Nadine

My very special MNF's

Mark and I were both home about an hour and then left for Anne and Patrick's for more good eating....my tummy is hurting......a really fun Sunday! Although it was cold and dreary outdoors, so much warmth and happiness inside these homes today!

Saturday - December 3

2011-12-03T20:17:00.000-06:00

Up early this morning and got lots done before Anne, Patrick and boys stopped by on their way to see Santa.

Best Buds

Grandchildren are so much fun and Mark and I enjoy our 5 grand "boys" so much. After a very fun, busy week with the North Carolina guys, now a month of Liam and Connor!

I ran some errands and then picked Mark up at 11:30 at the airport. We stopped at the Prairie Aviation Center where they were having a special "Top Gun" program. Met some really neat folks.

David, Brad and Mark

It was supposed to rain off and on all day; but it was almost balmy (50's) and sunny. We raked the last of the leaves (and a jillion gum balls with another jillion left to fall....ugh ugh ugh!!!) Then got to the outdoor lights, big wreath, etc. Looks good outside - still have to put the lights in all the windows.

Mark left West Palm early this morning and it was already 72 degrees - COLD weather and the "S" word in the forecast for us next week! The rain has started!

Friday - December 2

2011-12-02T21:12:00.000-06:00

A gloomy, dreary, blah, chilly day. I sure miss the warm sunshine, but this cold air makes it seem more like Christmas. People are out and about shopping (myself included), the mailbox is stuffed with catalogs and the cards are starting to trickle in.

I went to PEO this afternoon (meeting and dessert social) - good to see these gals as I've missed several gatherings this fall. Wrapped a few gifts (caught up again) and just got a bunch of piddly stuff done around the house..............all in preparation for my hubby to come home tomorrow!!!! YEAH!

Thursday - December 1

2011-12-01T20:45:00.000-06:00

Twelve years ago today, Mark and I became grandparents for the first time with the birth of Andrew Michael (Drew) in North Carolina. My oh my, how the years fly by...

Happy Birthday Sweetie!

Drew hanging out on Catrina with his I-pad

I spent most of today in Mendota with Dad - he was very sleepy, but enjoyed a piece of kringle and a small chocolate crunch bar (he loves his sweets). I met my sister-in-law, Linda for lunch and good chat.

Talked to Mark a few times and his boat jobs are pretty much done - going to hang out with Philip at home tomorrow.

Went to see Liam and Connor and their neat Christmas decorations in and outside. Missed these little guys. Anne, the boys and I went to Bob Evans for supper and then I ran a few errands.

Three weeks ago today, Mark and I started out with Catrina leaving Norfolk - 2 big weeks of boating and 1 week with Philip and Annette (with NC kids and kiddies in between) made for a fun fall getaway. We packed in a lot of miles during that time!

Wednesday - November 30

2011-11-30T20:36:00.000-06:00

I'm HOME and it's COLD out there! Very early morning for Mark and I as we were up at 3:45 AM and he took me to the West Palm airport for 5:45 flight. Anne had the day off and picked me up and we caught up on all the goings on around here. Nice to have the house decorated, shopping pretty much done and wrapped, etc.

Mark had another big day with Catrina and then tonight he, Philip and Annette met his brother Jim and Lydia for dinner in Pompano Beach. Jim and Lydia are vacationing in Florida, so glad they could get together (and sorry I missed out)! But, it's good to be home.

I had lunch with Exchange Club and then wrapped presents this afternoon with my Monday Night Friends for Adopt-a-Family, followed by supper at CJ's.

Good-bye Novenber and welcome December with lots of holiday fun!!!

Tuesday - November 29

2011-11-29T20:14:00.000-06:00

Cloudy and cooler in the morning....Mark left before 8 for Stuart and boat jobs, Philip and Annette were off to work and I hung out at home all day with our grand cats (Carlos and Julio). Did the laundry, some fertilizing of landscaping, read, packed and just enjoyed a nice quiet day (did have the Christmas tunes playing, though).

Carlos (front); Julio (back)

Sun came out in the afternoon and I walked around the neighborhood - fun to see all the nice homes, their holiday decor, etc.

Mark got a haircut and had a productive day on Catrina.

Tomorrow I fly home (5:45 AM) so getting out the long pants, sweater, socks, and fleece jacket to brave the chilly temps and possible snow flurries waiting at home. Mark is staying till Saturday.

Annette and I went to Target and then picked up a pizza from Sal's...back home and enjoyed the pizza, salad and wine and then played dominoes with Mark. Annette was the Queen!!!

Can't believe we've been here a week already.... Philip and Annette really rolled out the red carpet with their hospitality and sharing their new home for lots of family fun!

Monday - November 28

2011-11-28T19:49:00.000-06:00

Mark and I left at 8 for Stuart (45 minutes north) and got some things done on Catrina. We got one of the air conditioner trays replaced (icky poo job) and then the guys came and had Catrina lifted out for more maintenance. Mark took me to downtown Stuart (another favorite FL town) and I shopped all the specialty "cutsie" stores and had lunch at the coffee cafe. It rained a little but warm and sunny in the afternoon.

Back to Lake Worth at 5 and nice relaxing evening with Annette - had Brooke's corn chowder for supper. Philip is working late again...

Today was the funeral in Omaha, Nebraska for Mark's Aunt Sally who died Friday. She was such a dear lady and would have been 98 on December 22nd. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark's 4 cousins and

their families.

Philip and Annette's new home

Sunday - November 27

2011-11-27T20:57:00.000-06:00

Started our Sunday off with 9:30 Mass at St. Therese de Lisieux - a very neat experience - great priest and phenomenal choir (WOW)!!!! Music was truly special! Went to breakfast at "I'm Greek Today" and then browsed a few shops. Stopped at the Cupcake Cottage and brought home more treats (Susie....several different flavors today). Philip went into work around 1:30. Annette and I played rummikube, went for a walk in the neighborhood, and then Mark, Annette and I played 3-handed euchre and dominoes.

More leftovers for supper and still delicious! Tomorrow, Mark and I are off to Stuart and get some things crossed off the Catrina job list (hopefully)? Have a great week!

Saturday - November 26

2011-11-26T20:46:00.000-06:00

Philip left very early for work this morning, Mark and Brady exercised and after breakfast, we got the NC van packed up. Hugs, kisses, a few more camera poses and they were on their way at 8:20 AM. We had so much fun together and sure will miss them all till we meet again....

Grandpa and Brady lifting weights

Michael, Brooke, Brady, Drew and Davis

And then....Mark and I left for the West Palm Beach airport to get a rental car for him to drive this week. I brought the car back here while he took off in Philip's truck for Stuart and start tackling his Catrina job list.

Annette and I tidied up the house and got the washer and dryer going full speed. All the decorations were brought out and then she turned on the Christmas music, fixed us a cup of hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps and the decorating began (had to "pretend" it was cold outside to get in the spirit) while wearing shorts and sandals....but house looks great and here's the tree all decked out!

Beautiful Christmas tree

Mark, Annette and I played 3-handed euchre and then Annette and I played rummikube. Ended the day with a nice relaxing 45 minutes in the hot tub. Michael and all have arrived home safely. Philip is putting in a long day but on his way home.

Friday - November 25

2011-11-26T17:05:00.000-06:00

It's Black Friday, but everyone in this household is choosing NOT to go out and about for any bargains!!!! Sure have heard and read about all the crazies out there, though! HA!

We had another fun day in the sun and in the afternoon Mark and I picked up our friend, Susie (former neighbor) who now lives in Wellington. We came back to Philip and Annette's and had a delightful visit, watching the kids play bean bag toss, the YouTube video of Ryan, drank cranberry champagne cocktails and just so fun to be together. Susie's daughter, Amy came to pick her up and good to see her again.

Susie and Pat with delicious treats from The Cupcake Cottage

Susie and Amy

Enjoyed all the yummy leftovers for supper and then to the hot tub!

Pat and Annette

Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Annette with the boys

Thanksgiving - 2011

2011-11-26T12:02:00.000-06:00

We hope you had a very special holiday with your families and an abundance of good eating and camaraderie. What a wonderful day to celebrate and be thankful - Mark and I are with 1/2 our family and talked to Anne and boys and e-mailed back and forth with Ryan. We played games, watched football, enjoyed the pool and snacked off and on till the bountiful feast began. We ate outdoors and what a treat that was.

Grandma, Grandpa and Brady

Our Host and Hostess

Ready to chow down....

Michael, Davis, Brady, Mark, Philip, Brooke, Annette, Pat and Drew

Michael and his little buddy

Wednesday - November 23

2011-11-23T20:21:00.000-06:00

Pretty day in FL, and I got in the spirit of the season (despite everyone walking around in shorts and sandals). Mark took me to Wellington Green Mall and he went onto Stuart to check on some Catrina stuff. I got a manicure/pedicure and browsed around. Sooo many people out shopping, Christmas music playing, Santa was there, and the mall was beautifully decorated.

Beautiful poinsettias in Florida

But, let's first enjoy Thanksgiving and count our many blessings.

Pool time fun in the afternoon and a bean bag toss tournament followed by delicious corn chowder (Brooke's specialty) and fresh marinated shrimp.

Pool volleyball

3 men in the hot tub

The girls played dominoes with Brady and Davis (Annette was the winner) and the guys watched some movies.

Happy Thanksgiving and wishing you all a wonderful holiday with family and friends!

Tuesday - November 22

2011-11-22T20:22:00.000-06:00

Hello from Lake Worth and Philip and Annette's new home! Here's how our last day of cruising on this go'round went. Mark and I left with 3 boys sound asleep at 6:20 AM from Fort Pierce. We traveled 35 miles with lots of meandering to get to Stuart up the St. Lucie River and on up the channel to the marina

(a good 15 miles).

Davis cruising on the St. Lucie River

We are leaving Catrina in Stuart for a liftout and some maintenance.

The Lighthouse at Stuart Yacht Harbor and "The Boys"

Michael met us and we loaded up our stuff and off to Lake Worth for family fun and Thanksgiving! We had a great afternoon in the warm sunshine in the pool and hot tub and chatting away. The boys were in their glory!

Fun in the pool

After a delicious steak dinner....

Mark and his boys are "chillin" with I-pads, wine, and TV

and

The girls played 3-handed euchre

Monday - November 21

2011-11-21T20:24:00.000-06:00

Can't beat this warm, sunny Florida weather! No sign of any holiday decor in these parts and hard to believe Thanksgiving is just a few days away and then Christmas!!! Tonight we are in Fort Pierce and what a nice marina (municipal) with great bike riding for the boys. Brooke and Brady arrived around 2:45 and Brady is staying overnight with us. She went back to Lake Worth....so we have a trio of brothers here - lively times on Catrina!

Fort Pierce Municipal Marina

We started at 6:20 this morning (boys slept in again) and along the way we had a very enjoyable dolphin show as they swam alongside Catrina - our friend, Nancy said to attract them and get some pictures, make a lot of noise (NOT a problem with the boys and Grandma yelling and clapping with some "woo hoos" over and over)!

Our little friend who just followed us along...

Playing with their I-pods

All the guys out for a ride in the dinghy

Cobb's Landing here at the marina - good dinner

Back to Catrina for 1 1/2 games of dominoes both won by "Grandma" - tah dah!!!!

We traveled 75 miles today - all on the Indian River

Sunday - November 20

2011-11-20T20:31:00.000-06:00

Today was just ideal weather for boating.....warm sunshine and we drove the boat from the upper deck off and on! AWESOME! Did run thru some rough stuff and beam seas for about 1/2 hour on the Indian River. Played rummikube along the way and read (boys have their assignments to keep up with). We went 95 miles and are now settled in the Harbortown Marina off Merritt Island (near Cape Canaveral).

"I'm hungry" was a common phrase we heard off and on today - all this fresh air makes these boys wanna eat, eat, eat!

Drew at the controls

Cool Dude

After settling in, the boys rode bikes and then hosed off the boat - got these little slaves

"swabbin' the deck"!

Our "deck swabbers"

We went to Nautical Spirits for supper here at the marina and then back to Catrina for dominoes won by Grandpa! Ryan sent a video (on YouTube) of his squadron and what they're doing and he's in it - so neat and made his Mama so PROUD!

Saturday - November 19

2011-11-19T20:07:00.000-06:00

Left Fernandina Beach at 6:40 AM and heading to our kids/kiddies in Jacksonville Beach. Arrived there at 9:45. Our “welcoming” crew were waiting on the dock. Good to see them all – transferred stuff to their car and/or onto boat and Brooke and I took off in the car and the guys started cruising with St. Augustine as our destination. We stopped at Publix for a few groceries (ahhh, to be back in a Publix – my favorite grocery store).

NC bunch waiting for us at Palm Cove Marina in Jacksonville Beach

We girls had a wonderful lunch and wine at LaPalenta eating outside in the courtyard.

Pat and Brooke

This town was a'hoppin' with lots of people there in preparation for tonight's big lighting ceremony – many restaurants and shops along with the city park will turn on the Christmas lights tonight! Would love to see that! We strolled down the streets, but didn't make a dent in all there's to see in America's oldest city (1565). The guys arrived at the Comanche Marina at 1:15, traded crews and we left with Drew and Davis. Michael, Brooke and Brady are headed to Lake Worth (about 4 hours) and Philip and Annette's.

Arrived at Hammock Beach Resort/Marina in Palm Coast (WOW.....very nice) at 4:00. We went 88 miles today.

Davis and Drew and a fish sculpture

Boys rode bikes and then we took shuttle to the resort - walked around, had nice dinner at the Atlantic Bar and Grille (overlooking the ocean) and then Mark and boys swam. Big day.. Nite nite!

Friday - November 18

2011-11-18T21:22:00.001-06:00

Whew was it ever windy today!!!! We left at 6:35 AM from our anchorage and had a good trip to Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island (remember this town from March of '09 with Daisy). We did 91 miles and all went well except coming thru St. Andrew Sound (south of Jekyll Island) where we had 1/2 hour of UGLY!!! Glad to get out of that sound.

One other tidbit I've been dying to get off my chest that's been happening off and on past few days....well, today was the clincher.....most boaters are very courteous and when traveling thru the ICW, they call on the radio and ask permission to pass on port or starboard side, slow down or speed up, etc. That's how the sailboats and trawlers are; however, a big percentage of the big power boaters are so rude (never call) and 4x now they have come roaring up behind us and leave a HUGE wake and we are rocking all over the place - today was the "icing on the cake" when one of our wine glasses flew off the shelf and broke the stem! I was not a happy camper/boater!!!!! The next large power boat that passed us was run by a delivery captain and he was very cautious.

Life goes on.....got settled at Fernandina Harbor and I took off for the shops (very nice shopping) and then back to hose off the salt and gave Catrina a good cleaning inside. Mark got his exercising done (I did mine along the way) and got his paperwork all caught up!

Mark and I went to Brett's Waterway Cafe for drinks and appetizer (delicious calamari with peanut cole slaw) and then met our nephew, Tim for dinner at Espana - on my.....the traditional flavors of Spain and Portugal - very good! And great fun chatting with Tim and catching up!

Mark, Pat and Tim

So, it's good to be in Florida, but it's chilly (wearing my fleece jacket) and tomorrow we meet Michael, Brooke and the boys at Palm Cove Marina in Jacksonville Beach. Michael and boys will cruise with Mark to St. Augustine and Brooke and I will drive there in the car and shop till the guys arrive!

Thursday, November 17

2011-11-17T18:50:00.000-06:00

It's one week ago today that we started this trip and after a 95-mile day, we are anchored out on the Wahoo River (½ way between Savannah and Brunswick). It was a pretty day of sunshine, wind and 73 degrees. The storms went north and south of Beaufort last night but we did get quite a bit of rain.

Can't beat the peacefulness and calm of anchoring out – there are 4 other boats nearby in the middle of marshland. Mark grilled out chicken and now plotting tomorrow's trip. We are excited about Michael, Brooke and boys meeting us somewhere (still to be determined) on Saturday. Drew and Davis will cruise with us for 4 days and we'll all gather in Lake Worth with Philip and Annette next Tuesday.

So, another state (SC) under our belts....Florida, here we come!

Wednesday - November 16

2011-11-16T19:37:00.000-06:00

We departed at 6:48 AM (getting light later as we head south). Had some fog off and on (HATE fog) and as one other boater said over his VHF radio "Fog takes all the fun out of it"....AMEN!!!

We went 70 miles today and are in another favorite port of mine - Beaufort, SC .....BEAUTIFUL Buuufort as compared to Beaufort (Bowfort), NC. Some call this "Little Charleston" as it is very quaint and charming with wonderful little specialty shops, great restaurants, galleries, etc. Unfortunately, the sign of the times is evident here, too, with some empty stores.

I overheard one of the sales clerks commenting that business was a little slow today cause of the funeral? In another store, I asked about a funeral.....turns out that Joe Frazier, the world-famous boxer who died a week or so ago, is a native of Beaufort and today, many turned out for his memorial service along the waterfront.

So, I helped their economy with a little shopping and then we had dinner at The Wren which was phenomenal......we shared fried green tomatoes and I had sea grits - oh my oh my!!!!!!! Mark had lasagna and loved it! If you ever get to Beaufort.......................The Wren is a "must" stop! Of course, all the charming carriage rides are so fun, too, and hearing all about the history of this town. We did this 4 years ago. Strong storms are predicted for tonight in this area with winds of 70 mph possible! We are hunkered down in Catrina with all the hatches battened down!

Stay safe, healthy and happy......

Tuesday - November 15

2011-11-15T19:27:00.001-06:00

It's sooo good to be back in the land of palm trees and wonderful fresh seafood, shrimp and grits, hush puppies, she crab soup, pecan pralines and on and on all here in Charleston! Arrived in one of my favorite cities around 4 and as soon as Catrina was tied up to the dock at the Maritime Center, we hoofed it to downtown.

Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge in Charleston

Our 6:30 departure (our favorite time to leave at first light) started out sunny, then fog and even threatening skies along the way, but overall, warm (73) and balmy. When we started this trip last Thursday, we had 900+ miles to traverse from Norfolk to West Palm Beach (final destination) before flying home. We have now passed the 1/2 way mark! Most of today's travel (95 miles) was thru marsh land with just a few houses here and there! The highlight of our day was a phone call from Ryan. He was in port in Dubai for a few days and we had a great connection and chat!

After checking in at the office, we walked to the heart of historic Charleston and it was neat as ever (we were here exactly 4 years ago). Mark stopped in a pub for a beer and met a nice couple from Ann Arbor, MI who were on their way to FL in their RV. Turns out they stay at the same RV park in Fort Myers Beach (Ebb Tide) where we had Daisy last year! Small world....

So, while Mark visited I was out hitting the shops - fun, fun!!!! We met up after an hour and walked and walked - beautiful evening for 11/14 and we had a wonderful dinner at "Amen Street"! My sisters-in-law, Linda and Vicki and I are talking about a trip here in 2013 (we're long-range planners) - I know they would absolutely love everything about this charming, southern city! Till tomorrow...

Monday - November 14

2011-11-14T18:45:00.000-06:00

A great day on the water with sunshiny skies and 73! And another awesome sunrise to start our day...

Just south of Wrightsville Beach, NC

Passing Myrtle Beach, these gondola rides were right in front of us - think it was some sort of amusement park?

Lots and lots of cypress trees in the water in SC

Remember I told you about the Dismal Swamp or ICW "mustache"? Well, here it is - on the boat behind us tonight- yellowish discoloration of the hull from the water color.

All went well and tonight we are at the Osprey Marina about 20 miles south of Myrtle Beach, SC. Two states down and 3 to go....

I exercised along the way and Mark did his after we settled in - also went for a walk and I hosed down Catrina. This is a very pretty area with lots of cypress trees and the marina is really tucked back in from the intracoastal. They gave us a nice welcome bag full of cheese and crackers (tonight's appetizer), pecan/cinnamon rolls (tomorrow's breakfast), shampoo, conditioner, soap, key ring w/whistle, cozie holder, candy and more!!! The restaurant (The Osprey Inn) is closed for the season, but there's lots of boats here and the folks are just so friendly.

We traveled 90 miles today and while there are many boats heading south for the winter, it's amazing how there will be a big bunch together (usually waiting for a bridge to open) and then these wide-open spaces of just us! Did lots of oohing and aahing over all the homes again today!

Hope all is good wherever you are?

Sunday - November 13

2011-11-13T19:40:00.000-06:00

Ahhhhh the joys and adventures of boating.....here's how our Sunday unfolded...

The winds died down overnight and we left Morehead City at 6:30 with a beautiful sunrise and calm waters.

Breathtaking skies over Morehead City

We've been cruising thru eastern North Carolina's intracoastal waterway this beautiful Sunday passing neat beach towns, low sand dunes (compared to the biggies on Lake Michigan), and dolphins frolicking along Catrina. Apparently these little rascals are camera shy or perhaps the photographer is not quick enough???

Just a little ole beach house with matching lighthouse along the way

The Tar Heel state has the largest expanse of inland waters on the Eastern seaboard. Much of the shore remains undeveloped retaining its natural charm.

So as we were cruising along, all of a sudden (around 11:10 AM), we hit bottom and went aground with a very sandy bottom Yikes....sand is better than rocks; however, how are we going to get free? We have insurance with both Sea Tow and Tow Boat US, but the latter was closer to come to our rescue, so within 20 minutes the guy came and worked his magic (tied Catrina's stern to his boat with first a long line and revved up his 2 big engines stirring up mud and sand to make a well) He then shortened the rope 2 more times. He did the same thing with the bow and finally, we were free and he pulled us to deeper water. The big concern was low tide and we could've been “stuck” till 8 AM tomorrow morning! After it was all over and done, the tow boat captain said he wasn't sure he was going to free us with 2 hulls! So, that cost us about 2 hours! UGH! But we are safe, Catrina appears to be ok and tomorrow is a brand new day! We are not ready for any more adventures!!!!! Mark was in the channel when this happened.....he had just dodged a crab pot, but all happened so fast and amazing how many calls we heard over the radio throughout the day asking for tows. In fact, our captain had just freed another boat an hour earlier. Thank goodness the towing insurance provides full coverage....the captain said this was around a $1,000 job.

Our Rescue Angel

Tonight we are in Wrightsville Beach, NC – arrived here at 4:00 and good to get off the boat and walk and stretch our legs! We went 78 miles today. Coming into this area, the homes (mansions) just blew us away with their size and splendor. They looked more like hotels – lots of $$$ around these parts!

The dock hand recommended some restaurants and pizza sounded good – so off to The Mellow Mushroom where we sat outside (YES!!!!) and VERY good pizza it was!

One more tidbit on the Dismal Swamp – the water color is unlike anything I've seen – a coppery, rusty, caramel color? Some boats end up with the “ditch or ICW mustache” cause it leaves a discoloration on the hull due to tannic acid in the water!

Yesterday I finished reading “Killing Lincoln” - excellent book that both Mark and I would highly recommend. That's the latest from the “Adventuresome Nomads”!!!

Saturday - November 12

2011-11-12T19:54:00.000-06:00

Today started out calm, sunny and we headed out of Dowry Marina in Belhaven at 6:30 AM. Three miles out we had some problems with the bilge pump on port side...so, we headed back to Dowry and my mechanic hubby with all his tools, a spare pump, etc......went to work and 2.5 hours later, we were on our way!!

We traveled 78 miles today and arrived in Morehead City at 2:30 with strong winds! My first time off the boat since we left Norfolk Thursday morning - I walked downtown to some shops, found a mailbox and bakery! Gave Catrina a good scrubbing to get off the salt and then......enjoyed our friends Mark and Barbara's visit. They drove from New Bern and we sat and chattered non-stop over wine before going to "The Ruddy Duck" for very good dinner - My Mark and I were so excited to have some fresh seafood again!!! Mark and Barbara were our dockmates on E-12 for several years in Racine and retired to New Bern in 2005. Really enjoyed seeing them and plan to get together in February in Florida.

Mark and Barbara

Friday - 11-11-11

2011-11-12T05:53:00.000-06:00

A big THANK YOU to all our veterans today – past, present and future for giving us freedom and keeping us safe! God bless you all…..and on this patriotic day of 11-11-11, Catrina and crew traveled 111 miles from Arbuckle Landing to Dowry Creek Marina near Belhaven, NC. It was sure nippy this morning (42) but bright and sunny and with the generator we were warm and toasty. We went thru our 2nd and final lock leaving the Dismal Swamp Canal at South Mills, NC. We so enjoyed all the beauty of this man-made canal and the entire 22 mile trip was straight on except for one very slight left bend. The speed thru the canal is only 5 mph. While the colors were so picture perfect yesterday with leaves falling on Catrina, today was very little color and most of the leaves had already fallen.

Just as we were coming into Elizabeth City and out of the canal, the Coast Guard came along and stopped us. Two of the men came onboard asking to see our life preservers, fire extinguishers, paper work and checked our bilge. They were on their way and we were soon on the Pasquotank River as we meandered around many twists and turns. That brought us to Albemarle Sound – the winds picked up and while they were behind us, the last hour of the 2-hour trip was pretty rough as we turned and had beam seas! Alligator River is very wide and was somewhat choppy but nothing like the Sound. Finally we were in the Alligator Pungo River Canal and that brought us to Dowry Creek. We had blinding sunlight for part of this afternoon making it really difficult to pick out buoys and markers! All in all….a good day on the water!

Tomorrow we’re off to Swansboro and planning to meet friends, Mark and Barbara for dinner.

Thursday - November 10

2011-11-10T18:39:00.000-06:00

We have the first day of fall cruising under our belts traveling 45 miles - what a day!!! Mark returned the rental car, we unpacked all our stuff and left Cobb's Marina at 10:00 It took us 2.5 hours to go around Norfolk, but saw so many Naval shipyards and ships.

The Dismal Swamp is the oldest operating artificial waterway in the US, completed in 1805 (12 years after it was started). It's also rich in history and folklore and after going thru Deep Creek Lock, we were officially in the Dismal Swamp and for 22 miles we meandered down the canal to thee most spectacular fall scenery...non-stop brilliant orange, red, gold and bronze-leafed trees. Fall in its prime with us here in Virginia's Dismal Swamp (dismal it was NOT)!!!

November colors thru the Dismal Swamp

Mirror reflection

Tonight we are at Arbuckle Landing (Chesapeake, VA) - one dock (but a very nice dock) about 8 miles from the end of this beautiful journey. It's just us and nature in all her glory!

Happy to be back cruisin'....

Wednesday - November 9

2011-11-09T20:33:00.000-06:00

We are on Catrina!!!!! Long day of travel leaving home at 9:30 and arriving on the boat at 8:30 in Norfolk! Stopped for a $143 Wal-Mart run and now settling in! Tomorrow, we are back cruising!

Night night!

Monday - November 7

2011-11-07T20:21:00.000-06:00

Happy, Happy Birthday to Mark....

64 years "young"!

Mark started his day with a trip to the dentist and then breakfast with the neighbors/friends (I brought treats from the Grove Street Bakery). I got a haircut and ran some errands.

It wasn't a nice day weather-wise - very dreary and off and on rain, but balmy! Anne, Patrick and boys came for birthday dinner (bar-b-que ribs) and the boys helped Grandpa open his presents followed by birthday cake and ice cream! A fun time for all...

Ready to blow out the candles

Liam, Anne and Patrick

Wednesday we leave for Norfolk and Catrina.....I'll be back with daily blog updates!

Halloween - November 5

2011-11-05T19:51:00.001-05:00

What a spectacular fall we've had – gorgeous colors and pleasant temperatures. Halloween could not have been more ideal for all the little people out and about and they came in great numbers this year!

Our favorite trick or treaters..

Crypt Master (Liam) and Ninja (Connor)

I left Tuesday morning for Mendota to visit Dad and my cousin, Jim and then brought Aunt Marian back for her 2nd cataract surgery. She did great and spent the night and we celebrated her birthday which was the 4th. Mark went to 8:15 Mass for All Saints Day and I went at 12:05. Liam and Connor were with us while their folks went out for dinner and then to church.

Liam and Connor with their Great Great Aunt Marian

Aunt Marian had follow-up visit with doctor at 10:30 on Thursday and then Mark took her back to Mendota, stopped in to see Dad and Jim and then to Dixon to see his parents and also visit with 2 of his sisters, Joan and Sue.

I started in with the decorating Wednesday afternoon (we'll be gone for 3 weeks and don't want all that to do when we return). So......made good waves Thursday and Friday and certainly looks Christmasy at our house. Bought a new 9' pre-lit slimline tree last year 2 days after Christmas, but 3 branches around the bottom would not light up! Arghhhhh....ALWAYS an issue at our house EVERY year with lights not working. They were just fine when put away, but apparently something happens to them over the spring/summer/fall and makes both of us crazy (especially me – Mark just says “throw 'em away”!!!!) Store where we bought the tree replaced the bottom section and we are good to go – they were baffled, too, as to why it wasn't all lit as their electronic volt meter did not show the problem??? Just a dud that is going back to the manufacturer.

Liam and Connor spent Friday night with us – they helped put some ornaments on and chose some to take home for their tree. This morning, we took the boys home and enjoyed breakfast with Anne and Patrick – pancakes, bacon and baked apples! Mark and I then headed for Farm and Fleet and Wal-Mart. Finished trimming the big tree in living room and about 95% done with the decorating (not turning on the lights). Still have some shopping to do, but rest is wrapped! I'm on a roll...........

Grilled burgers out and enjoying a nice quiet evening at home sweet home!

October 24-30

2011-10-30T18:52:00.000-05:00

Whew another busy week packed in with lots of fun....

Monday, we met the neighbors for breakfast and then drove to East Peoria and checked out the new Bass Pro Shop – wow! Met our friends, Allie, Owen and Cheryl for delicious lunch at Granite City Pub and Grille and then to Allie and Owen's home for great visit and awesome pineapple cake. They have a lovely home in a very pretty woodsy setting – the weather was glorious with clear blue skies and all that luscious fall color!

Owen and Allie

Allie, Pat, Cheryl

Good friends from business school many years ago

I met 7 of the Monday Night Friends at Outback for dinner and chatter. Pigged out big time today!

Tuesday, Mark left early for Chicago and onto Norfolk and reunited with Catrina. I worked out with Larry, then dermatologist appointment and full-body skin check-up – all is good! Liam and Connor stayed with me a few hours after school and Anne joined us for supper.

Wednesday was yucky weather with rain and cold. I wrapped some gifts, ran some errands, had lunch with Exchange Club and enjoyed a cup of tea with Donna Rae and good visit in the afternoon. The Sublettians went to The Water Street Pub and Grill for dinner and lots of laughs (14 of us). Mark returned home at 8:00 – he enjoyed his boat and the nice warm, sunny weather.

Thursday, I did my weight lifting at Larry's, picked the boys up at 11:45 (they are off for a long weekend cause of conferences). We visited our friends Bob and Martha (the boys played with neat toys in the “playroom”.) Bob was in a very serious bike accident a few weeks ago and now home recovering – was good to see him and wish him all the best as he heals. Anne came for chili and took her little darlins' home.

Friday – we had the boys all day and spent several hours at the new Bass Pro Shop starting with bowling (my cousin and Sublettian friend, Jane, joined us and so fun to be with her) lunch and then browsing this big, wonderful, awesome store. Jane and I each bought a cute pair of Mary Jane shoes. The boys were in awe and picked out several things they would like Santa to bring????

Jane, Connor, Liam with Mr. Bear
In front of the nice warm fire at Bass Pro Shop

Saturday – whoaaaa, Grandpa and I are very sore from all that bowling! It was fun at the time, but muscles are hurting today! Our long-time boating friend, Fran is in town visiting from Sturgeon Bay – fun to get together for lunch at Panera with Kathy and Barb. We sat and gabbed for almost 3 hours, then said our good-byes and I was off to Meijer's for a few groceries.

Sunday – cloudy and rainy...went to 10:00 Mass, ran a few errands and Anne and boys came over. We worked on “saint” costumes for “All-Saints Day” Tuesday. Both boys will be St. Patrick.

The Colors of Fall

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

October 18-23

2011-10-23T19:32:00.000-05:00

Busy fall days continue.....since I last blogged, I went to Wisconsin with Kathy and Claire for 3 days of fun "girl-time" shopping, eating, etc.....Started our trip with a stop in Racine where we met Claire's twin grandsons, 4-month old Paul and Alex! They are such sweet babies (Emily and Philip went all thru grade/high school together). We had a fun visit with cuddles and delicious lunch and then we girls were

off to Cedarburg.

Mike and Alex; Emily and Paul

We stayed at the Washington House Inn (charming old inn that was established in 1846). We had dinner at Morton's (a neat tavern just behind our inn that was in a quaint neighborhood). Started off Wednesday with a yummy breakfast and then hit the shops - several cute gift/home decor places and at least 3 coffee cafes. We left mid afternoon in the rain and cold.....ugly trip thru Milwaukee and onto Racine where we shopped at Milaeger's, O-H Bakery and Borzynsky's. Then to the Radisson in Kenosha and felt so good to be warm and cozy and out of the elements! Had a nice dinner at The Chancery.

Thursday was chilly, but no rain - we hit the outlet mall across the street from hotel and by 1:30 we were on our way home....

The weary shoppers with just a "fraction" of their packages

Pat, Kathy and Claire

We were in Mendota and Dixon this past weekend visiting Dad and then our niece's wedding on an absolutely perfect autumn day!

Nora and Pat

Mark's parents

Three of the six bridesmaids. The girl on the right sang Ave Maria - BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Pat and Nora

Mark is going to Norfolk, VA for a few days to get Catrina ready for launching later this week. I have plenty to keep me busy while he's gone and looking forward to having Liam and Connor Thursday afternoon and all day Friday (off school cause of conferences). Back atcha later....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my friend Susie in Florida....also Mark's sister, Marilyn!!!

Fall fun with the grandsons - October 12-16

2011-10-17T18:38:00.000-05:00

It's been “Grandson Central” at our house since last Wednesday when Brooke and the boys arrived from NC. The 5 cousins had so much fun together and we kept on the go non-stop.

Highlights of our week included a day trip to Mendota/Dixon to visit their great grandparents and Great Aunt Linda; ice cream treats at Emack and Bolio's (thanks Anne and Patrick), and then outings to the Rader Pumpkin Patch, Ropp Dairy Farm and Upper Limits. Michael arrived late Friday afternoon. Anne had the boys for pizza and a sleepover and Michael, Brooke, Mark and I had pizza and played euchre with the guys winning 3 out of 4.

Saturday, Mark and Michael visited the grandparents. Brooke, Anne, Patrick and I took the boys to the Sugar Grove Nature Center and they ran and ran in the fresh, windy air! We all went to 4:00 Mass and then Mark and I took the boys to a wiener roast and hayride in the country. After the kiddies were in bed, we 4 played euchre with Brooke and I winning 2 of 3.

Sunday......the little darlin's flew back home, but nice to know we'll be seeing them at Thanksgiving in Florida.

So, it was a very fun, busy week and really flew by. Today was breakfast with the neighbors, manicure/pedicure, lunch with Patty who is visiting from Florida and then Mark and I gave blood at the Red Cross.

Tomorrow, I'm off to Wisconsin for 3 days of shopping with Kathy and Claire and meet Claire's 4-month old twin grandsons!

Hope you're all having a great fall - weather sure has turned chilly! Bye for now....

I took a jillion pictures last week, but here's a few to share!

The boys with the Great Grandma Ruth and Great Grandpa Harland

Great Grandpa Pete and boys

Brady, Drew and Davis at the Rader Pumpkin Patch

Cute shirts from Uncle Phil (parts of the plane)

Drew and Liam climbing away at Upper Limits

In the corncrib at Sugar Grove Nature Center

Liam, Drew, Davis, Brady and Connor

Anne, Patrick and Brooke "trying" to stay warm

BFF - Connor and Brady

Grandma and her boys

Late September - October 12

2011-10-12T15:58:00.000-05:00

Busy, busy fall and an absolutely beautiful one with warm temps and brilliant color. Appreciate all the nice comments about missing the blog. Here's what we've been up to and after we resume our Catrina travels (November 9th), I will update daily.

Our 18th Annual Sisters Weekend (Mark's sisters) gathered at Starved Rock on September 30-October 2 for lots of laughs, hiking, eating, wine drinking, water aerobics, game playing (hand 'n foot) and just enjoying 11 of us “sisters” hanging out.

The Sisters at Starved Rock

Pat, Theresa, Doris, Lydia, Marilyn, Joan, Janet, Sue, Sharon, Beth and Karen

We had 2 separate lunches and lots of good visiting with friends from TN – first, with John and Heather and then, Bill and Nancy. Mark and I were guests of my Aunt Marian for a cookout at Stonecroft in Mendota and I've visited Dad every week.

Liam and Connor just enjoyed a 4-day weekend and Grandma and Grandpa got to share 2 of the days jam packed with FUN! We took them to Chicago on the train last Friday (10/7) and walked those little legs all over the place – we did Lego Land, Navy Pier, Children's Museum, Disney Store, DuSable Marina (for ice cream) and then “walked” all the way back to the train station. And then on Monday (10/10) after breakfast with the neighbors, we went to Starved Rock for a day of hiking, climbing and just enjoying this perfect autumn day.

Creative juices were flowing in their design at the children's museum (with Grandpa's help)

Memorial to Steve Jobs outside the Apple store on Michigan Avenue

The guys take a break along Wacker Drive

Resting those little legs on the train trip home

Starved Rock

Taking a break with Grandpa

Enjoying all the rock formations

Brilliant color

Connor and Liam were enthralled with the stories of Lovers Leap and Starved Rock

Almost to the end of our long hike

I drove to Mendota on Tuesday morning to see Dad and then brought my Aunt Marian back for cataract surgery. She's spending the night with us. Anne, Patrick and boys came for a visit and Anne and I are exchanging cars for a few days. We need her van to transport the grandsons....because....tonight our NC boys and their Mama are coming for a few days! YEAH........we are so excited and can't wait to have the 5 cousins together! Let the fun begin! I'll be back in touch next week!

September 6-25

2011-09-25T20:28:00.000-05:00

Time to catch up the blog so here's a brief recap of what's been going on with we nomads...

Ryan has called twice - 1st from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and this weekend from Bahrain. He sounds good and what a treat and blessing to hear his voice from so far away.

The USS Stennis at sunset

Along with catching up with family, friends and neighbors, we've had some fun times with Liam and Connor.

Sweet grandsons

Our parents are doing well and my Dad continues to amaze us!

Mark and I just returned from separate vacations (mine was a vacation....his was a working getaway to Florida where he spent a week helping Philip and Annette settle into their new home.) Father and son tackled the job list with a vengeance and it was a successful week! Mark thoroughly enjoyed it all and got to share in Philip's 35th birthday which was the 21st.

The Birthday Boy cruising on the Hudson River on 8-19-11

I spent 4 very fun days with my sisters-in-law, Linda and Vicki in Boston. We flew out on Sunday, the 18th and stayed at the Sheraton in Copley Place. My nephew, Jason (Linda's son) was there on business for the week and he showed us around.....driving us to Rockport on Sunday – very quaint coastal town north of Boston with good shops, eateries, etc.

Charming Rockport

Boston memories...

Waiting to dig into our hot lava cake at the Chart House

Delicious desserts at Mike's Pastry

Vicki, Michael, Linda and Jason

Linda and Vicki outside the JFK Library

Paul Revere and the girls

Along with all the wonderful historic sites, we were in awe of the lovely architecture that is so Boston! We shopped and ate very well with an abundance of clam chowder, lobster bisque, lobster rolls, scallops, shrimp, and delectable desserts! We thoroughly enjoyed touring the JFK Library/Museum. Our lunch there was extra special as we overlooked Boston Harbor in all its splendor with the planes flying over us and landing at Logan Airport.

Michael flew in Wednesday and we all had dinner together – a highlight for this Mama!

It's good to be home and ready for all the beauty of fall....October looks to be very busy, including doctor appointments, fun outings with the grandsons, a visit from our NC kids/kiddies and a 3-day trip to Wisconsin with girlfriends.

Take care and I'll be back with an update in a few weeks!