Monday - April 30

Windy, warm and sunny today.....we went into town to meet the Monday morning bunch for breakfast - hadn't seen some of them since December....others, in Florida.   Good visit!  Then Mark and I picked up my rental car for the next 3 weeks - a brown Sonata with Michigan plates.

 

We each went our own way - he had several errands and I went to Meijer to get groceries for Anne - she certainly doesn't have time for that task these days with working full time and all the go go go with the boys ballgames, school activities, etc.    Glad to help out!

 

The boys are off school today......delivered the groceries and they helped carry them in and put away!    Mark met us there and we were off to Portillo's for lunch.  

 

Fun lunch with these sweet guys

 

 I took them back home and Mark and I spent the afternoon on Flo.    We sure wish we could give her a good scrubbing, but absolutely no washing of RV's at Kamp Komfort and with the strong winds and farmers in the field and all the dust, probably wouldn't stay clean very long!

 

So sad to hear about a high school classmate of mine who passed away this morning.    Connie was diagnosed with cancer less than a month ago....

 

Oh my.....Senior Prom 1966

Cousin Jane and date Harry; and....us

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday - April 29

Today started off with 31 degrees but a beautiful Sunday - not a cloud in the sky, little wind and got in the 60's. 

 

Late morning we went into town and did 3 loads of laundry and a treat next door from Gloria Jeans while the washer and dryer were doing their thing.    Then to storage and put stuff away and got other stuff out.   

 

Back to Flo and put laundry away, have lunch and then we were off to East Peoria to watch Liam play the 3rd game in a tournament today (his team lost 2x yesterday and came back today to win 3x today)    Wow....what a final game which they won 6-5.    They won the silver championship and were awarded rings.

 

13 U Legacy Team - Game Seven 

Liam is front row - 2nd from left

Liam  and his ring

 

What a gorgeous afternoon to watch this exciting game with Anne.   We were ahead 3-0, Galesburg Streaks came from behind to tie it and then we went ahead 6-3.    They came back with 2 more runs and Liam threw out the final batter and Game Seven wins 6-5 in extra innings!   

 

Patrick was in Pesotum with Connor.   His team, the Renegades, won both their games.  

 

These guys are on 2 different travel teams - lots of baseball coming up and we sure saw

a great game today!

 

Meanwhile, at Lake James....

Blair and Luke are blowing dandelion seeds

 

Maeve is on a boat ride!

 

and Uncle Ryan spent the weekend with them!

 

 

  

Saturday - April 28

Cloudy, chilly (50's) and breezy with occasional peaks of the sun.    Slept in, had sausage, eggs and toast for breakfast and then unpacked and got Flo back in order.   Mark did great traveling and stowing things....all is well!

 

I caught up on e-mails and other computer stuff, Mark went to Farm' Fleet late morning and finally the sun came out around 2ish....makes all the difference!

 

Went to 4:00 Mass at St. Mary's and then ran some errands -  had wanted to go for dinner - at least 3 proms in town and so, we saw lots of pretty dresses and these young folks all gussied up eating where we wanted to eat!    So we went to Avanti's which is always good - they had a few prom kids, too, but no problem getting a table.    Got some groceries at Schnucks and on home.

 

The trees in town have blossomed much more than here in the country.   Down to 31 degrees tonight!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday-Friday, April 26-27

It's Friday evening and I'm back on Flo with Mark.....been a busy few days, so here goes!

 

Thursday - Very HAPPY 15th ANNIVERSARY wishes to

 

Anne and Patrick

 

We gals went back to "Sip" for another yummy breakfast and then off to the King William District - a 1.1 mile walk along the River Walk.    It was a gorgeous day and we were in awe of all the lovely old homes which were described in a pamphlet about the architecture and period of each.

We toured the Mathis home and then had lunch at the Guenther House (outdoors on the patio).

Here are just 2 of many gorgeous homes we saw...

 

 Guenther House lunch

Claire and I so enjoyed our chicken and waffles

We celebrated Claire's birthday (May 1st) in a lovely setting at the Guenther House

 

After lunch we had a delightful tour at Miss Margaret's Home which is only open to the public during Fiesta.    It was very enjoyable with 3 excellent docents.

 

After the tour we walked to Halcyon Coffee and Wine Bar - neat place.    We sat on comfy chairs and chatted over cold glasses of chardonnay and then walked along the river walk

 (cannot get enough of all this loveliness).

My good buddies along the river front.

Tower Life Building

 

We had dinner at The Iron Cactus and enjoyed this beautiful evening as several mariachi bands floated past. 

 

Fun entertainment

 

Back to the hotel to pack and get some sleep.....

 

Friday - Claire left for the airport around 6 AM and Kathy and I followed at 7:30.    What a fantastic week this has been enjoying Fiesta in beautiful San Antonio with wonderful food, excellent attractions and so much beauty in this 300-year old city.    There is nothing quite like the River Walk and we covered a lot of miles and so fun to share it with good friends!

 

I flew into Midway, rented a car and drove back to Bloomington.    Such a treat to see these pretty daffodils outside the airport.    But the trees have not budded out at all....

First daffodils of this very late spring

 

Mark met me at the airport, I returned the rental car and we were on our way to Flo at Kamp Komfort.   So good to be back together and catch up on our week.    It got to 70 today but very windy and then had some sprinkles tonight.

 

I have been remiss in not reporting on Mark's travels with Flo.    He left NC Monday morning and spent that night in Clarksville, TN, then Vandalia, IL and arrived at Kamp Komfort Wednesday around 11:30.

 

Grandpa had Liam and Connor as his overnight guests on Flo last night.    Anne and Patrick were out celebrating!    Mark and boys had dinner at Busy Corner and he took them to school this morning (after breakfast at Dunkin Donuts)!

 

We plan to be here until May 22nd and have lots to pack in along with doctor appointments, visiting family and friends, and enjoying the boys, Anne and Patrick!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday - April 25

What an adventuresome day!!!    We started off with a delicious breakfast at "Sip" - one of the best breakfast sandwiches ever (a parker house roll with fried egg, applewood smoked bacon and slices of avocado with mayo) + a very good skinny vanilla/cinnamon latte.    We plan to return there tomorrow

So, off we went to the river walk and wanted to go inside San Fernando Cathedral but with Fiesta going on there were many vendors with their colorful tents all over the streets so it was closed.    San Fernando is the oldest cathedral in Texas and one of the oldest in the nation.

We then took a walk along the River Walk (1.8 miles) to the Perl District.   What a nice leisurely stroll with beautiful landscaping, flowers, etc.    We had drinks at "Supper" and sat outside the Hotel Emma - beautiful old hotel that was once a huge brewery dating back to the early 1900's. 
 It is sooo neat!

The Pearl (a beer) District is full of some unique shops, many restaurants in a very nice setting.    We walked around, stopped at The Lorraine Bakery for some wonderful pastries,
Oh what a great little spot!!! 

San Fernando Cathedral amongst the vendors

Claire and I had this wonderful drink

"My Heart Will Go On"

In front of Hotel Emma

Pat, Kathy, Claire

Tonight is the coronation of the Fiesta Queen 2018...

The candidates wear very detailed beaded, jeweled gowns along with a very long coat with train.    These outfits cost $$$ paid by the family (kind of like a "coming out" or debutante party).

Several of the dresses and long trains from last year were on display in a store - oh my....

Here are 2 of them

The weather started looking threatening and we decided to skedaddle to the water taxi which was leaving at 3.    Radar looked scary but out boat driver told us it was still off a bit (I thought otherwise)......we took off but the heavens opened up - thunder and lightening and a general soaking as we meandered the San Antonio river (a good 20-minute ride).     We were 3 very wet rats as were the other passengers.    

Got to our hotel and took warm showers and the rain continues to fall...

Later we walked to the Houston Street Bistro close to our hotel and lo and behold, there were several tables of beautifully dressed ladies and men in tuxedo (definitely more ladies.      It was the big Alamo Coronation at the Majestic Theater.    After our delicious dinner, we walked to the theater and stood there oohing and aahing over the lovely gowns....there were so many people walking into the theater - what a sight to see - definitely the elite of San Antonio society!

Walked around some more and also saw the Fiesta "Cornyation" going on at the Empire Theater - totally opposite the big spectacle at the Majestic.

Went to the river walk dodging the puddles and it has definitely cooled off.   Went to Waxy O'Connor's Irish Pub for some hot coffee drinks (Kathy and me) and a cold beverage (green Shamrock ?) for Claire.

This blows our minds.....the Fiesta measures up as follows for economic impact and outshines the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Kentucky Derby, the Final Four, and the Masters with $340m.

Of course, we never heard of this event and it is mind boggling the revenue it generates AND all goes for charity.  We are so lucky to have been a little part of this incredible 10-day event!  

  Fiesta has been going on since 1909.

Here's our own little queen with her tutu as her crown!    Ha

Such a funny, sweet little girl!

Tuesday - April 24

A very nice sunny summery day in San Antonio.    We were up and leaving our hotel by 8 stopping at Starbucks for breakfast.    We then walked to the Alamo and after a 17-minute film, we had a 1 hour 15 minute guided tour by John.   Very interesting and ended inside the church.

 

Remember the Alamo

Kathy, Pat, Claire

 

Today is "Army Day at the Alamo" all in conjunction with Fiesta 2018.     The Army band performed with a special program - songs plus speeches, a poem, etc.   This was all followed by patriotic music.    We went thru the gift store, visitors center and then off to lunch.

 

We walked along the river front and ate at Iron Cactus which was excellent along with

 prickly pear margaritas.

 

Delicious drinks!    Cheers!

 

We covered a lot of tracks today and late this afternoon we came back to our hotel - Kathy and I took a power nap and then we 3 were off again....walking to the Mercato (Market) and wow....a very happening place with tons of people out partying for Fiesta.    We had margaritas and an appetizer combo - we have definitely OD'd on Mexican today!

 

Took a cab back to hotel and then walked more on the river walk - sooo many people out walking and dining on this beautiful evening.

It was a very fun day but we are tired!!!

 

So proud of Davis (front row) for being inducted in

The National Honor Society at UCHS.

 

Monday - April 23

It's been a long day starting at 7:40 when Michael and I left his house and off to the Charlotte airport in the rain.    He flew onto NYC and my flight was delayed to Dallas (supposedly checking engines after last week's tragic accident.)

    I am thankful that I got out as several flights were canceled.

 

Kathy and I met in Dallas (Love Field) and had a nice chat while waiting for our flight to San Antonio which was delayed also.    Finally took off 1.5 hours later and tah dah....we are in San Antonio and met Claire in baggage claim.    What fun to all be together again

 

Our Uber driver told us "Fiesta, San Antonio 2018" going on - a 10-day affair with lots of entertainment and tonight was the big parade.    Sure enough after we were settled at the hotel, we walked to dinner (some places were closed or reservations were full).    We ate at Dorrego's at the Hotel Valencia and could watch the parade (on the water) go by while waiting for our meals.    It was an Argentinian restaurant and excellent.    Enjoyed the parade, too, and sooo many people lined up and down the river walk, looking out over hotel balconies, etc.

 

 

Watching the parade from the Hotel Valencia

Kathy, Claire, Pat

 

Just one of many colorful, musical floats on the water.

So we had an extra treat tonight with the parade....lots of people here from all over the country and this big event lasts thru the weekend!

 

So sorry to hear about the tragedy in Toronto today....

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday - April 22

Cloudy, cool and some rain.....Annette went to 9:00 Mass in Morganton and then ran some errands.    Maeve "helped" Grandma pack and Grandpa got some things done on Flo/truck

 getting ready for his trip.

 

Maeve just hanging out on Flo with her I-pad watching "babies"

 

Last night was prom at University Christian High School in Hickory and here's Davis who went with friends...no one had a date.    Drew did not go to prom this year!

Davis and his best girl - Mama

Friends having fun on prom night 2018.

 

Annette made Cubans (awesome) for lunch), Maeve and Grandma took a little nap and then I rode back to Newton with Michael and spending the night with them.    I haven't been here for several months and wow....fresh paint all over house, new carpeting in bedrooms and basement, granite countertops, etc.....a pretty, fresh look!    Love it!

 

Blair and I played in her "bakery" - what an imagination this girl has!   

 Cracks me up the things she says!

 

In her own little world!

Michael picked up Mellow Mushroom pizza for supper and just a nice relaxing evening before baths, and get ready for the start of a new school week.

 Just amazes me how much these little pre schoolers are learning these days.    Luke recited the pledge of allegiance and sang a song about the months of the year.    Blair read a book to me and did great with her flashcards learning new words!

Congratulations to Connor's traveling baseball team, The Renegrades who won their championship game today.

Congrats Connor wearing his championship ring!

 

So tomorrow, Mark and Flo will start the long trek back to Bloomington.    Michael and I are off to the Charlotte airport (he's going to NYC and I'm flying to San Antonio till Friday for girlfriend fun with Kathy and Claire.)

 

 

 

 

Saturday - April 21

Another fabulous day in North Carolina......Philip and Luke were off at 6:30 AM for the airport and now back in IL with Annette's parents.

Ready for take off and Illinois, here we come!

 

I watched the memorial for Barbara Bush (with many tears) - beautiful tribute to a beautiful lady.   

 

Annette took Maeve to the camp to play with friends and then came home and took a 4-hour nap!!!
  I did  laundry and Mark watched the pouring of concrete at Michael's new garage.

Mark and I went to 5:00 Mass at St. Charles Borremeo in Morganton and then ran a few errands.    Back home to delicious cheeseburgers, baked beans and deviled eggs.   

Played 3-handed euchre (4 games) with Mark and Annette each winning 2 and once again, I came out on the short end!   LOUSY cards - at least that's my excuse and I'm stickin' to it!





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Friday - April 20

35 degrees this morning but no wind and lots of sunshine!    The campers met for breakfast at 8 in the dining room and then said our good-byes...what a fun 4 days with these dear friends!   

Heather and Cardy

 

Mark and I got Flo back to Philip and Annette's and then we were off to Morganton for haircut (Mark) and manicure (me).    Annette spent the day with Luke and his class on a field trip in Marion.

 

Mark and Philip did a bunch of odd jobs inside and outside.    It was a glorious day getting to 68 degrees.    While Maeve was napping I watched the special tribute to Barbara Bush.

 

Philip and Annette had a date night and out for dinner while we held down the fort, did some laundry, baths, etc.    Tomorrow Luke and Daddy are flying to Chicago and Luke will spend his spring break (till Thursday) with his other grandparents.    He's excited!!!

 

Grandpa learning a new game from Luke

Maeve loves Grandma's computer 

Philip's latest woodworking project - desk in the laundry room!

 

Curly locks trying to say "Julio"

Hanging out with the munchkins!

 

Thursday - April 19

Bright sunny day but breezy and only in the 60's and then dropped to the 50's....far cry from yesterday!

 

Mark and the 2 "Bill's" went to the dining room for breakfast.    I slept in and then did some little jobs around Flo and caught on up e-mails, texts, etc.

 

Mark has been working away on logistics for Brady, Liam and Connor to join us on Catrina this summer in New York.    Airline tickets are purchased and now the fun of planning... 

So looking forward to having these 3 together for some cousin fun.

 

The 7 campers drove to downtown Marion and met Philip, Annette, Luke and Maeve for lunch at Bruce's Café.    We had never been and what a large menu which all sounded so good.    After enjoying our lunches, we all had various kinds of cheesecake which is their specialty!

 

Back to hibernate out of the wind and cold - what a difference a day makes.    Sure would not have been a good day to be on the water like yesterday!

 

Happy hour at Bill and Charmaine's - so fun to be together and God willing we will all be back for our 4th annual camping trip in April 2019 in Cherokee, NC which Bill and Nancy will organize!

 

The temperature has dropped this afternoon and along with the strong winds....some of us drinking coffee with Bailey's instead of wine!

 

Twins.....who is who?

 

Bill and Nancy

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday - April 18

Oh what a beautiful day........got to 83, sunny, clear-blue skies !!!   All of us left at 10:30 for Philip and Annette's home which we walked thru, then to Michael and Brooke's home and another tour.    Mark met us with Philip's pontoon and then we all climbed aboard for a ride to Camp Lake James for lunch.    Great lunch for everyone in this lovely setting on this warm day....

 

Left the camp and went for a pontoon ride around Lake James.    Absolutely delightful!

 

After the ride, Bill, Charmaine, Bill and Nancy left to go back to campground.    Heather and I drove to Philip's to pick up Mark after he dropped the pontoon off.

 

After a quick visit with Annette and the kiddies, we were off to Flo....

 

Happy hour outdoors - so pleasant and just a very nice ending to a great day.    We should all sleep well tonight after the sun, water and good eating!

 

Lunch at the camp...

Bill G, Nancy, Charmaine, Bill W, Mark, Heather

 

 

Bill, Ty and Charmaine

Sweet Maeve

 

 

 

 

Tuesday - April 17

It was a very fun day at the campground with our fellow campers.    Mark and Bill W did a donut run to Mr. Bob's Donuts in Marion - GREAT donuts.     Relaxing morning catching up on e-mails and other things on Flo.

 

It warmed up to 71 but was very windy!

 

We all had lunch at the dining room of the campground - they serve breakfast and lunch and it was very good.     Then all of us except Nancy went to Old Fort and toured the Gateway Mountain Museum which was all about the history and culture of western North Carolina.

 

Bill W with Ty, Pat, Bill G, Charmaine and Heather

outside the museum with this lovely dogwood tree

 

Some of the group took afternoon naps and then we got together at Bill and Charmaine's for

happy hour.   

 

No one was really hungry so we opted for dessert and came over to Flo's for

coconut cake, strawberries, ice cream, and whipped cream! 

Happy after dessert

Nancy, Heather, Bill G, Charmaine, Ty and Bill W

 

Line-up of our campers....from left

Bill and Nancy's, Heather's, Flo, Bill and Charmaine's

 

Lots of good visiting and reminiscing today....

 

Monday - April 16

Hello from the Tom Johnson Campground in Marion, NC where we've been seeing snow flurries tonight!     Not looking forward to an overnight low of 31. 

 

Mark took Luke to school, I got things stowed away on Flo and did a load of laundry.   We left around 11:30 and stopped for lunch at Drew's Diner, Ingles and onto the campground where we were met by our friends......Bill and Charmaine from Linville, NC, Bill and Nancy from Fairfield Glade, TN and Heather from Crossville, TN.    So good to see them all....

 

They all came on Flo and we spent the afternoon visiting and staying out of the cold!

 

We had dinner in Marion at Las Salsas - good Mexican and margaritas, beer, wine, soda!

 

Bill G and his massive, delicious 32-oz margarita

 

Nancy and Charmaine

Heather, Mark, Bill W.