Tuesday - January 31

 My oh my....the last day of January!     2023 is off and running!    It was a very busy but fun day starting with yoga, then Charlotte and Doug arrived and we gals walked to the ballroom for the Cypress Trail Fashion Show (Anthony's) and luncheon (chicken salad chick).   Each place setting had a tube of hand lotion as a favor, We had ukulele entertainment (You are my Sunshine) and enjoyed sangria.    The "Hotties" (hubbies) served us and took care of individual tables - good job guys!   Lunch was chicken salad with croissant, fresh fruit, a pickle and cookie.

Charlotte and Pat

There were lots of door prizes (Charlotte and I were among the lucky winners  - wine, gift cards to Amazon, the Boathouse, etc.)   The fashions were fun and lots of oohing and aahing going on - Debbie, the commentator did a great job!    At the end of the show a lady came up to surprise Charlotte (she heard her name called as a door prize winner).    She and Charlotte worked together in Annapolis for years...now the friend lives in Fort Myers.

Finally that was the end of this event for 2023.    We had around 100 ladies present and I think all had a very fun afternoon.

Mark and Doug enjoyed their lunch at Buckingham Farms and non-stop chatter I'm sure.   We all sat on the patio afterwards and yakked some more!

Mark, Charlotte, Doug

They left with a stop at Anthony's on the way home and some good luck with retail therapy for Charlotte.  😉

Rested a bit till time for euchre....another fun evening with 8 tables and met lots of new folks.  

Monday - January 30

 We are home as of 5:20 today from our whirlwind trip to Bradenton/Tampa.   Today started out with the sun streaming thru our hotel room windows on the 6th floor.    This lovely building (formerly the Manatee River Hotel) was built in 1926 and was quite upscale back in the day with many celebrities staying here - Herbert Hoover, Greta Garbo, Babe Ruth, Clark Gable, Al Capone to name a few.    The building architecture is really cool (7 stories) and has sooo much history,   After falling on hard times, it was bought and sold in 1966 and since that time, has been a senior home, assisted living, luxury boutique hotel and on November 18, 2013, opened as the downtown Bradenton Hampton Inn and Suites - nicest Hampton we've stayed in!!!

Slept in this morning and then walked to the Orange Blossom Cafe for our coffees and shared a warm orange scone.    Packed up the car and off to Tampa.    We met friends Linda and Richard from McPherson, KS whose son Lance was a pilot with Ryan (Blues) for 1 year.    They are spending 2 months in Dunnellon, FL so Tampa was a good meeting place.    We had a great lunch at Wright's (excellent deli and bakery that my friend Claire had recommended and their "go to" place when in Tampa).    We visited for awhile, finally ordered lunch and yakked some more!    Sooo good to see them......their grandchildren are 8 (boy) and 9 (girl) with a new baby boy coming in March - so happy for them!   Said our good byes and headed south!

Linda and Richard

We reminisced about the wonderful memories from watching the Blues and how much we miss those days!

Stopped in Arcadia to see Joan and Joe and check on Joe's really bad burn.    We took him his favorite - Bud Lite and he's a happy camper.    Their friends, Steve and Sue from near Port Clinton, OH were there and so good to visit again - they all came to Catrina last August!

Good to be home but sure enjoyed our little getaway - tired nomads tonight!

Sunday - January 29

 Sunny, warm Sunday and off to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis with Father Anthony,   We had wanted to eat breakfast at Bullig (been there once before a long time ago and also had a coffee to go a while back).   Not the easiest place to get to, but....when we got there and waiting for a table, a sign by the cashier said "10-15 minute wait for drinks and 45-50 minutes for food"!     Yikes....I asked the girl if that was really the case...yes!    Mark didn't want to wait that long, (maybe another time), so we went to the pancake/eggs/sausage breakfast that the Knights of Columbus was sponsoring benefitting the school children at St. Francis.

Had a nice visit with a couple from Chicago who moved to FM 8 years ago and also a couple from north of Minneapolis who are down here for 2 weeks.    Enjoyed chatting with these folks and breakfast was good and hearty.

On home....finished packing a bag for our little getaway this afternoon.    We left at 2 for Bradenton and stopped at Starbucks in Venice for iced coffees (the Black Gold Coffee Roasters which we like is closed Sundays).  

Arrived at Lee and Tamara's at 4 and chatted for 1 1/2 hours - so good to catch up (last time we were together was March, 2022 in Fort Myers).    Non stop chatter and the time flew by and then time to drive to Pier 22 downtown.    What a beautiful place surrounded by ginormous yachts (so nice and happy to see all these beauties floating in the water and lived on or enjoyed compared to the Fort Myers marinas.    

Tamara and Lee

Had a wonderful meal and yakked another 2+ hours.    Then time to say good bye - we checked into our hotel just a few blocks away and called it a day!

Saturday - January 28

 Cool, cloudy and breezy most of the day.    We left at 9 for North Port to visit with Allie and Owen.....always fun to be with them and today we had more of that fun!    After visiting at their condo, Allie drove us to Venice where we had a late yummy breakfast at Skillets.    Then to downtown and the big Art Fest on Venice Avenue.   Allie and I went to this 2 years ago - it's a great show with so many creative wonderful items.    Owen and Mark sat on a park bench and yakked while we hit all the vendors (3 blocks of tents back to back).   Big crowd, the sun came out and it warmed up - really pleasant to be out and about.  We each bought some things (gifts and for ourselves) and back to North Port around 3.     I drove us home and we settled in for the night.

Lots of very clever mermaid creations around town designed by an artist and then sponsored by some company/organization, etc.

Here are the shoppers with one of these incredible designs

Allie and Owen

We'll see them later in February when they come to Fort Myers!

Last night with Jim and Lydia at the Bee Gees concert

Tomorrow we are off to Bradenton and Tampa visiting friends...home on Monday afternoon.

 

Friday - January 27

 Burrr.....very chilly, windy walk to the "walk" workout!    I only stayed for 1/2 the routine this morning as my thighs were screaming "ENOUGH"!     With yoga yesterday and earlier this week, I've got to tone it down a bit!     I may just stick to yoga and do my regular walks in the park.    I admire these gals who do this 5 days a week....

This afternoon I got a mani pedi with  Tamara and decided to get a little funky.....have never done this before (always pinks or reds), but here I am....

Soft lavender

Michael and Ryan taking a break from the slopes - they had 18" of fresh powder since arriving in Jackson Hole and more to come!

Happy skiers lovin' all that fresh mountain air!

Only a high of 64 today and no sun!  😔  We Floridians LOVE our sunshine!

We had grilled cheese, soup and some leftover taco salad from yesterday's Mexican for supper.    Then we were off to hear the Bee Gees Tribute Band in the ballroom - what a fun evening - packed house, lots of dancing and so enjoyed all their big hits!

The Bee Gees (tribute band)

Came out at 9:45 to a cold, windy and misty rainy night!!!   

Have a great weekend - we are off to Venice tomorrow to visit Allie and Owen and check out the ArtFest.

Thursday - January 26

 Not one of our better weather days with a high of 69, cloudy, breezy and a few sprinkles late afternoon.   More rain is predicted.

I did yoga and Mark put gas in the car - waiting on that emission valve canister (?) part to come in - was supposed to be the 24th?    Still getting reminders on my watch/phone that there is a problem....too much technology for this gal!

We drove to Arcadia to meet friends, Butch and Joyce (Champaign, IL but wintering in their 5th Wheel in Frostproof, FL).    Always enjoy our time with them and over some really good margaritas and Mexican fare, we yakked and yakked.    Then we were off (per sister Joan's suggestion) for Joshua Citrus in rural Arcadia.    Along with produce, fresh-squeezed juices, etc., they have very good ice cream and we all enjoyed the orange/vanilla swirl!!!    And what a surprise to a friend from Bloomington there (Mary and her friend, Anita).   Small world.

Anita and Mary

Butch and Joyce

Said our good byes to Butch and Joyce (we'll see them again on March 4th in Lake Wales).  On home for our naps (short but sweet) and just hunkered down on this cloudy, cool Thursday.

Finally got my Christmas card list updated.....3 more cards came yesterday (one was Happy New Year).   But one of them from my cousin in Mendota, IL was mailed December 15th and arrived January 25th????  

Wednesday - January 25

 A balmy, breezy warm 85 degree day here in SWFL while 3-4" of snow back in central IL.

I did my walk workout and some chores in Flo and she shed.    We were to meet Barb and Roger at PF Changs for lunch, but Barb texted that she is not feeling well.    We kept the reservation and Mark and I enjoyed some delicious Chinese fare sitting outside.

We also had a few errands at Gulf Coast Mall.....so frustrating to shop these days!   Belk's was practically empty of shoppers and where-oh-where are all the clerks?    Then when I went to find a dressing room, it was blocked off with big sign that said "Dressing room temporarily closed"????   Told me another location only to find that one was for men???    Finally I went into the bathroom (although sign on door said "no merchandise allowed in restrooms")!    Well, what to do?   NO one was around, so I quickly tried on my article of clothing and after all that, didn't work anyway.....I was outta there!!!   Painful!

We came on home, took a little power nap and then walked over to Jim and Lydia's.   Sister Joan was visiting from Arcadia and they were playing "Wingspan", a favorite for these game-lovin' folks.    So sorry to hear that Joe has a very bad burn (3rd degree) on his leg from their fire pit a few nights ago.    Burns hurt so bad....wishing him a quick-as-possible recovery.

Jim, Joan, Lydia playing Wingspan

Ryan is back in the good ole USA after 10 days in Paris and got to see some sights!    He's meeting Michael (currently in CA)  in Jackson Hole for some skiing.

,

Tuesday - January 24

 Eleven years ago today, (January 24, 2012) my dear Dad passed away at the age of 94 - I think of him so often and miss him very much!    Happy Heavenly Birthday, Dad!!!   💓u.

Started the day with me doing yoga and Mark walking - later, we walked together and did some visiting with neighbors.   I did a load of laundry and we had leftovers for lunch and dinner from all the good stuff we had in Jupiter.

A fun afternoon with Jim and Lydia visiting and catching up after their 2-weeks in Aruba (they returned home Saturday night).    And then we played euchre with Jim and I beating Lydia and Mark 2 of 3 games.   Normally we would be playing euchre tonight in the ballroom, but there's a beer fest event so no euchre!

Mark and I were very excited to read online tonight that Cooper's Hawk (a favorite restaurant) is coming to Fort Myers in mid March.   We'll be going to the Naples location on Valentine's Day with our long-time bridge friends, but sure will be nice to have one closer to us.

Sunday-Monday, January 22-23

 We are back home (6:20) after  a wonderful getaway to Jupiter visiting Bob and Carol.    Here's what we've been doing (and eating) the past 2 days!

Sunday - left at 8:00 with a stop in LaBelle at the Bridge Street Coffee and Tea Co. for a light breakfast and our coffees.   We arrived in Jupiter at Carol and Bob's condo at 11:15.    So good to see them and got a tour of their condo which is spacious and on a small lake.    Jonathan's Landing is HUGE and beautifully landscaped.

We went out for lunch on the water (U-Tiki Beach) and had a perfect table with a perfect view in the warm sunshine with an excellent lunch and of course, non-stop chatter.  

U-Tiki Beach

  They took us to the Loggerhead Museum which is in Juno Beach and so interesting.     They had been to this place about 5 years ago and surprised to see how it had grown - it is really well done and so nice to walk around and see all the turtles (and hear a little history as to what brought them there from the attendants).   All kinds of injuries and in several tanks receiving excellent care at the turtle hospital and some soon-to-be released    Also enjoyed so many species of fish and their beautiful colors.   Their gift shop was really nice, too.

This massive, prehistoric loggerhead is 60 million years old and from South Dakota

It's on display inside the museum

In the hospital but doing well

Pretty fish

Display of jelly fish

Back to the condo and just relaxed; and then while Mark and Bob took naps, Carol and I walked around their neighborhood (a tiny fraction of this huge complex).    But they have wonderful paved walking/biking paths.    So, we got in some good steps and then we were off to Carmine's Italian for more excellent eating.....

Preparing Carol's special dish tableside

Carmine's

Bob and Carol watch the series "All Creatures Great and Small" and it's on Sunday night.    We enjoyed watching it and may be hooked and can go back from 2 previous seasons and catch up.    They also enjoy "Call the Midwife", but Season 12 won't be coming to the US till March 😔

Monday - a great night's sleep and Bob made his specialty cinnamon swirl French Toast with fresh fruit - soooo good.    The guys went to a seminar (1 1/2 hours) at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and today's topic was a history of the first 6 US Presidents - they both enjoyed it.    Carol and I hit some cute little boutiques.    Got the car loaded up and we were off to eat again...........and another winner at the Old Florida Bar and Grill!    My oh my, we sure had some awesome meals here in Jupiter.     Said our good byes (wish we could get together more than once a year, but always a really special time.)    They will be in Jupiter thru February and then on home near Philadelphia.    Their son-in-law, Tom was Ryan's commanding office with the Blues.

Old Florida Bar and Grill

Our very gracious and warm host/hostess

Bob and Carol

Shared the drive home, unloaded the car and settled in for the night!

Liam and his Mama on Senior Night for hockey

Saturday - January 21

 Mostly cloudy today but warm.....after breakfast, I did some laundry, packed a bag for us to take on our little overnight tomorrow to Jupiter to visit Blue Angel friends, Bob and Carol.   They came to see us last February and it was sooo cold and windy.    Carol and I walked around the downtown ArtFest and although we thoroughly enjoyed the show (artisans from all over the country with top quality treasures at some hefty $$$), the weather was anything but pleasant!   

Went for a walk and had a nice chat with neighbors Joe and Barb from Flora, IL.    Later we did a bike ride and came across this critter strolling across the street

Up close and personal

We went to 4:00 Mass at St. Francis since we're leaving fairly early tomorrow - 132 miles to Jupiter.    Stopped at Publix for a few things and on home - leftovers for supper!

I'm taking a short break from the blog while we're gone.

 

Friday - January 20

Steve, Connie, Pat, Mark

 A very fun day with friends doing what we do best - eat and chat nonstop.   The day started with breakfast at the McGregor Cafe meeting Steve and Connie.    Love this place and so pleasant sitting out on the patio.   We had much to catch up on and planning our next outing on Valentine's Day (long-time bridge friends).

Said our good byes, ran some errands and then a trip to Matlacha and Pine Island - another very sobering drive thru heavily damaged areas from Ian.   On home - I took a little nap (did not sleep well last night - probably too much caffeine from that $$$ latte I had even thought it was hours earlier?)

Met friends Charlotte, Doug, Beth and John downtown at 4 for early supper at The Lodge.    Another good meal.   

John, Beth, Pat, Charlotte, Doug, Mark

Charlotte and I were very happy with our pulled pork nachos

 When we planned this get together, we thought our favorite husband/wife entertaining duo (Gatlin) were to be performing on the street for "Music Walk" tonight, but the downtown   organizers canceled them a few days ago.    Big disappointment!  There were other musicians but nothing that interested us (crazy music).    We did watch George Gilbert, a magician who was quite good!    Charlotte and Doug invited us to their 26th floor condo near downtown.

WOW.....beautiful place and the nighttime views were amazing  

26 floors up, up and away!

Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday - January 19

 Beautiful sunny breezy day in SWFL......I did a gentle quick 20-minute yoga workout with Penny, Brenda and Norma.    Good to be back stretching!!!

Mark was off to get a haircut, I scheduled some appts., made egg salad and we enjoyed some quiet time till off to get Mark's new crown at Dr. Baxmann's office.    I drove a little further down San Carlos to Chocolatte and got an iced latte................ouch!!!   $7.07   - really?   I might have to start checking out some cheaper beverages???

On home and walked in the park till happy hour.    Enjoyed our egg salad sandwiches for supper and finished updating my Christmas card list (more cards coming next week....New Year's).  

Wednesday - January 18

Today would have been my parents 84th wedding anniversary - hope they're playing some good games of euchre, hanging out with friends and maybe a little dancing from their earlier years?    Sure miss you Mom and Dad... sending lots of love on your special day!

I did my walk workout and then some light housekeeping on Flo.    Did a load of laundry, too and then we were off to party  with our former neighbors Rog and Martin.    They sold their 5th wheel and truck and recently moved into their new condo.   Today we were celebrating Martin's 70th birthday and the new condo with several friends.   Lots of fun, great food and drinks!    Their new condo is beautiful and was a turn-key (everything left as is from previous owners) - very nicely decorated!

We got an e-mail today that 28 residents in Cypress Trail donated blood on Monday and 84 people will be recipients.   Awesome!!!

Tuesday - January 17

 Busy Tuesday for the nomads - I had yoga in the morning and then we each left driving to Galloway Ford for an oil change in Big Red.    Together we went to Salty Papa's Shrimp House for yummy lunch - love this place - so much good stuff to choose from but shrimp is their specialty.   I had the shrimp and grits - excellent!!!   Mark had the shrimp boil and he was happy happy!    I had plenty of leftovers.

The real deal

Then to Salon Plex for my haircut with Kaitlyn - enjoyed visiting with she and Kelsey and unfortunately, they still don't know if/when Jewel will be back?     Mark sat in the car with his Ipad in the shade.    Then we drove down San Carlos to Main Street where Parrot Key (been here sooo many times for good food and entertainment over the years) and Jewel's neighborhood.    Almost 3 1/2 months and once again, just heartbreaking to see so much damage, destruction and devastation everywhere.   Several areas were marked "KEEP OUT" or had caution tape across the streets.    Here are some photos...

Sailboat overturned on the street

And another one

Stuck in the tree

What was this?

The clubhouse at Ebb Tide RV park where we stayed with Daisy several years ago

Tangled boats

Travelift which brings boats in and out of water now all bent

surrounded by a messy bunch of boats.

After that sobering trip, we got the call that Big Red was done so back to Galloway.    Mark settled up and got it washed and I drove on home.    Big Red is nice and clean and back under the cover.

Monday - January 16

 Chilly sunny start to the day (37) and Mark was a dear and drove me to my "just walk" class.   All of the gals came bundled up but it doesn't take long when we are shedding layers and working up a sweat with Leslie.....and Penny (our leader here in the park).

The bus for blood

Walked home with my long-sleeved "one Blood" t-shirt and a $20 gift card to my choice of several places.   Took it easy today reading and playing games and a nap.

Mark had some outdoor projects and took a walk in the afternoon and that about sums up our day on Flo.

Sunday - January 15

 Fun Day - Sunday!!!    That's what it was starting with 9:30 Mass at St. Francis, a latte from Dean Street Coffee Roasters and on home.    One hour later we were on our way to John and Beth's home for a wonderful afternoon with Charlotte and Doug (from Annapolis and in Fort Myers for 2 months) joining us for a teary-eyed reunion as the 6 of us had not been together since January 3, 2020.    Soooo much to catch up on and rejoice in serious health issues resolved for Charlotte, the return from AZ for John and Beth and on and on......we each brought a variety of delicious finger foods along with wine, sangria, apple and key lime pie and chatted the afternoon away.     Sure have missed these friends (we all met back in Marathon in 2014 when all of us had PDQ's - now just we have a boat) and the friendships began!    Said our good byes 4 1/2 hours later and on home till we're together again Friday night in downtown Fort Myers.

John, Beth, Charlotte, Doug

Today would've been Mark's parents 77th wedding anniversary.....January 9th was the 10th anniversary of his Dad's passing.....remembering so many happy celebrations with them over the years!   They are so missed by the Chamberlain clan!

Zoom tonight was smaller than usual with just 5 (Sharon, Marilyn, Karen, Doris and us).   

We'll be ready for the warmer temps coming this week!    Have a good one wherever you are!

Saturday - January 14

 Burrr.....chilly and windy today but the sun was shining!     We brought the flower pots indoors last night and they'll stay indoors till this cold spell is over!

We had a leisurely morning on Flo and then off to Punta Gorda and lunch at the Laishley Crab House with Joe and Joan.    One week ago today we were there with Anne and the boys before we took them to the airport.    Mark left his credit card there and after racking the brains for a day or so, confirmed (after a few phone calls) that it was at Laishley's.    So, a good excuse to meet sibling Joan and Joe who came from Arcadia for a good lunch (grouper fish 'n chips and shrimp basket).    Would've been nice to sit outdoors, but not today although there were several diehards who did just that!

Stopped at Publix for a few things that cost $$$$ (painful buying groceries these days) and on home.    Did some laundry and had a good chat with Ryan who has been in Washington State for the retirement from the Navy of one of his Blue Angel friends.    Tomorrow he's off to Paris for 10 days (working).

Just had snacks for supper after our big lunch.  I worked on updating my Christmas card list - almost done!    Mark watched some movies!   Happy to be inside!

Friday - January 13

 Skies were looking ominous when I went to do my "just walk" routine.    Rain was predicted off and on till noon.    Good workout and on home but at 9:15, the rain started and it was pretty heavy, then stopped, and back again.

We left in the truck to pick up my car at Galloway.   Each of us drove home in a downpour which was about the last of the rain.    But nice for all the vegetation.

Home for just a bit then off to meet Barb and Roger at BJ's for lunch - we were here Monday night with Buddy and JoAnn, but really good food and big menu.   We all enjoyed our lunch and then REALLY enjoyed dessert which is a specialty of BJ's.....pizookie (delicious warm cookie - several varie)ties baked in little tin pan and topped with ice cream.)    Mark and I had the trio (peanut butter, white chocolate macadamia nut and Ghirardelli chocolate).    Wonderful! 😋😋😋 

 3 hours later and lots of yakkety yak as we had not been together since September 29th (day after Ian hit), we said our good byes.    Barb and I set up some dates for rest of this winter (we all plan to be here thru mid April.)   

DEEElicious pizookie

Barb and Roger 

While we were at BJ's, the sun came out around 1:00, but the winds really picked up and temps dropped.   Going to be a much cooler weekend for we Floridians with lows in the 30's

We were happy to go back to Flo and hunker down for the night!

A few days after Christmas when we arrived back in Florida, I noticed all the Valentine cards were out and other red 💓 stuff +++ the Cadbury Easter eggs.   I yigh yigh...gets earlier every year!

Enjoy your weekend and stay warm!

 

   

Thursday - January 12

 Since we don't have my car now, Mark took me to get my nails done and 2 other errands.   Driving it around town and especially parking is not my thing with Big Red!

While I was getting my mani, Mark went to the Oasis and had a nice hearty breakfast.   

Status on my car.....a valve is stuck that handles the fuel emission canister?    As long as we don't fill the gas tank full, it'll be fine to drive till part comes in (hopefully by end of month)?    So, we'll probably pick it up tomorrow!    Not sure why these things happen???    

Mark and I rode bikes this afternoon for the first time in eons!    We've got to get back in that routine!   Felt so good!

I've been busy setting up dates for getting together with friends who are visiting FL for 1-3 months.   Even though we know several not able to come south this winter cause of various reasons, there are still lots of long-time friends we love to keep in touch with!

Late this afternoon we went to "Scoop Me Up" for ice cream with Buddy and JoAnn - such good stuff and had a nice chat with Sean (owner).   JoAnn and I are going to try and bring Sean and his ice cream truck to Cypress Trail?

Buddy and JoAnn

When we got home, JoAnn showed me some treasures she bought today at an art fest on Sanibel.    She and Buddy were just sick seeing all the damage there and clean-up left to do.   JoAnn and friends loved to go shelling on the Sanibel beach, but not happening anytime soon.    Very sad just like FMB

View from Buddy and JoAnn's tiki hut

Wednesday - January 11

 Gorgeous day in sunny warm FL although my morning walk to the clubhouse for my "walk" workout was cold - think we got down to 44.    Good very vigorous exercise!  

On home and Mark packed up our old grill and planned to donate to Habitat for Humanity but they are still closed from hurricane damage, so took it to Goodwill.    I went to the Farmers' Market and got some goodies - they had some new vendors today including Christina B's resort wear - cute clothes.   No new clothes, just some breads and spreads for me!

Bought my ticket for the fashion show/luncheon on the 31st.   Welcomed Gary and Brenda, our new neighbors from Missouri (north of Kansas City.) 

Joe and Joan arrived at 3 - Mark and Joe took off for Lincoln Galloway to see what's going on with my car as we've been getting notifications on our phones about an emission problem?    We made an appt. for the 23rd to have it checked out - but then today when Mark was out and about, it wouldn't start - eventually, he made it home.    He called  Galloway and they said to bring it in.    The guys took the car and Joe's truck, left the car and back home in the truck.    Meanwhile, Joan and I sat and gabbed on the patio and she made her wonderful muddled old fashioneds.    

Joan is muddling the fresh oranges and special cherries

And the finished absolutely delicious, refreshing adult beverage

The guys came back and we had appetizers and drinks and then went downtown for pizza at Capone's - soo yummy and soo pleasant sitting outdoors.

Fun afternoon/evening with these 2

Tuesday - January 10

 Mark and I walked and finished organizing the she shed.  As soon as the HOA meeting was over (before 11), the ladies flocked to the ballroom for their turn and 2nd session of yoga.    Our instructor was very good with "gentle" yoga and really crowded so not sure what they will do as more come to join in.

Back home, showered and we were off to Coconut Point Mall - our neighbor, Liz (devout runner in the park and has run many marathons) works part time at "Fit to Run".    We both needed new walking shoes and figured Liz would be great to give us the perfect shoes!   And...that she did.   We had a fun time visiting, trying on shoes and listening to her expertise on thee best shoes for each of us.  

Mark's

Pat's

Hadn't been to Coconut Point in a very long time - still a huge mall and seems to be doing well.   We had lunch at Southfork Grill - good food, but not the best service.

On home... took a short nap (love these little power naps in the afternoon)!   We played euchre in the ballroom tonight - fun time with 8 tables!    Met several new folks and all the regulars.   

Monday - January 9

 Gorgeous day!   I was off to do my "walk" workout - another toughie!   There were 18 of us today (getting crowded) in the ballroom....not sure how we can handle more!   Met some more nice gals and on home for breakfast and then worked some in the she shed and all back in order.    Organized our closet, too....good productive morning.

Lunch and then Mark went to Publix for Rx and a few groceries.   We went for a nice long walk in the afternoon and met more folks - everyone is soo friendly in our park!     Love it!

Tonight we tried a new place that was recommended (BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse) in the Gulf Coast Center - excellent, huge menu and great drinks - will definitely be back!

Sunday - January 8

 Sunny Sunday - went to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis and then on the lookout for a coffee shop - choices downtown are minimal with Peter's closing and Starbucks destroyed by Ian.    Online showed "Shift" in the new West End - City Walk apartments.   It's a small place and they had one lonely little cinnamon roll (guy said we need to find a source for pastries)?   Yup! They've been open a year....no decaf for Mark or able to make an Americano decaf.    I got my 1st latte in over a week and then we went to Publix and got 2 apple fritters and on home.

Got the laundry started and did some light housekeeping and organizing in Flo and the she shed.

This fall someone here in the park told us a "must go" restaurant that was a favorite for them was "The Gathering Place"........it got great reviews and we had planned to try it only to read online today that it's closing after 9 successful years.    Circumstances beyond the owners control is the cause for the closing.   Bummer....

Tonight we met our soon-to-be-new neighbors (moving in Wednesday).   Gary and Brenda from near Kansas City were to move in today, but their  renters are still using the lot (camper and 2 trucks).    Apparently a miss-communication between the rental office and the Texas guys (roofers) cause they won't be off the lot till Wednesday.   Had a nice visit and look forward to having them next door.   The 2 groups will switch places on Wednesday.

Miss Maeve may be a budding fiddle/violinist???

Sibling zoom tonight with 9 on hand covering a variety of subjects!   

Have a great week!

Saturday - January 7

 Little nippy this morning but lots of sunshine and eventually reached a high of 76.    Mark and Connor returned the rental car at 8 AM, we had breakfast and left at 9:30 for Arcadia with a big suitcase and 2 golf bags.    

Stopped at the Ranch at Arcadia Palms RV Park to visit Joe and Joan (Mark's sister, Anne's aunt/uncle and the boys great aunt/uncle).    We sat on their patio in the sunshine and had such a fun visit.    They arrived Wednesday till the end of March.    Their new purchase is a cricket golf cart and the boys and their Mom took it for a little ride around the park.   Said our goodbyes with a plan to get together here at Cypress Trail later this week.

Great Aunt Joan showing the boys how to operate her new golf cart

Joe and Joan

Joe, Joan, Connor, Anne, Liam, Mark

Pat + everyone (- Mark, the photographer)

Then to the Laishley Crab House for lunch - always good (crab cakes, Reuben grouper, grouper wrap, mahi mahi and Hawaiian chicken).   Onto the airport and said our goodbyes - (hate good byes) but what a fun, memorable week we had with these 3.    

Waiting for our table to be ready checking phones and menus.

And dressed appropriately for the return to chilly IL.

We'll miss them....Anne goes back to work Monday, and school for the boys on Tuesday.   3 games of golf, several laps in the pool (their swim team coach will be proud), kicking the soccer ball around at big complex, played pool, the Babcock Ranch Eco tour, outlet mall shopping, airboat ride, hockey game at the Hertz Arena, shopping/lunch with Lydia, intense "walk" workout for Anne and me, the very sobering drive along Fort Myers Beach, and lots of good eating kept us on the go.

Came home and started the laundry - also took a nap!   

Anne and boys are "home sweet home" and I can only imagine the excitement and hugs happening with Gibson and Frankie!