Monday - March 31

 We left CT at 8 this morning - Mark driving Big Red and me in Ruby heading to Galloway Ford for Big Red's oil and filter change.    Took a little over 1/2 hour to get there and then Mark and I went to Panera for a light breakfast-to-go and on home.

Said good bye to Kathy across the street.   She and John are heading back home to KY till January.

I picked up Lydia for canasta - the ladies were so happy and surprised to see her.   She's a trooper and so good for her to be out and about!

I played with Sue and Estelle against Denise, Vicki and Michelle.   WOW....a really bad day for my last time to play this season.   The other team got all the good cards, breaks, luck, etc.   Oh well....still fun and I will miss the girls and this fun game.

On home and a short time after lunch, Galloway called that Big Red was ready for pick up.   We stopped at Trader Joe's for a few things, I dropped him off at Galloway and came on home.

Did some laundry and enjoyed the AC in Flo and my she shed.

 Went for a "warm" and "short" walk after supper.

Bye bye to March which is going out in a HOT blaze of glory!

 

Sunday - March 30

 Another warm one and will be HOT all week!   We went to 9:30 Mass with Father Steve at St. Francis.   Then to Publix for a few things and onto Shift Coffee Co. at City Walk downtown.   We hadn't been here for a few years cause they didn't have decaf, but today....they had it.    We had gotten some pastries at Publix (no apple fritters and been out of them for 3 months?).    They are so good - clerk didn't not know what the problem was?   I know where the headquarters for the Publix bakery is (close to where my brothers live in Lakeland)....so if I had only known this a few weeks ago, could've checked it out?    Ha!!!

On home and set to work finishing up the she shed and truck.   We have 2 more weeks in FL, but for now,,,,things are in good shape!

We were supposed to meet friends from Bloomington and colleagues at State Farm (Paul and Margaret) for lunch at BJ's Brewhouse, but Paul is sick!    Bummer....we or they have had something come up past few years to keep us from getting together - been 3 years since we were together.

Jim and Lydia invited us to their gazebo to play euchre - fun, but Mark and Lydia beat Jim and I 2 of 3 games.    Lydia was hot!

Leftovers for supper.    Good chat with Ryan who returned from 5 days in Paris yesterday.

9 siblings tonight on zoom.    Mark's Mom (Grandma C) died 9 years ago today.  😔

Have a good week!

Saturday - March 29

 What a fun day!    Started out with a walk and later, we were off to North Port and a visit with dear friends, Allie and Owen at their villa.   We chatted away for about 1.5 hours and then to Anna Maria Oyster House which is fairly new to North Port but there are other locations north of there.    This one has a big tiki.    Food  was excellent!

Mark, Pat, Allie, Owen

We drove around a new area called Wellen Park - huge development of homes, shops, restaurants, hospital, etc., that still has a lot of development coming.   Very nice.    We parked downtown and enjoyed ice cream at Bright Ice.   Walked around by the water and later I had an iced latte at Foxtail Coffee Co.    Love giving these local coffee shops some business!  😊

Our chauffeur, Owen drove around some more - what a great area.   A golf course used to be in their neighborhood (behind their villa), but did away with that and now a huge development of 500 homes is in the works.    The growth here in Florida is mind blowing! 

Meant to include this yesterday...

Jo, our faithful euchre buddy from Tennessee

It started to rain about 5:45 - we need it badly.    Hope more is coming?

Friday - March 28

 Warm 'n windy today.    Mark and I walked and then played euchre in the library.   Definitely winding down the season as only Jo showed up, but we played 3-handed and had a grand time.   Mark won the first 2 games and then we all were tied at 9.   Mark bid, Jo and I euchred him and we tied for the win!    Woo Hoo!!!  😊

After lunch (grilled cheese/tomato sandwiches and yummy Trader Joe's tomato soup), we had a quiet afternoon in the AC.     We did work in the she shed organizing bins and some clothes (what we want to take with us or leave)!

A walk in the park at 7 and that's that!    Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday - March 27

 Whew....really warm today!   We were off early (7 AM) to Biscotti Cafe and pick up coffees and pastries and take to Connie and Steve's at Shellpoint.    They are moving to a different apartment (same building) with a view of the Caloosahatchee River - lovely!.

We enjoyed visiting over our breakfast and then set to work - they had everything packed up and with the help of 3 collapsible wagons (1 was a double decker), we did 2 loads moving stuff (mainly sewing room and laundry room) to one floor below.

WOW....new place is beautiful and ready for the movers to come Saturday.    They will have a really nice "new" home once they are settled.    Two hours later, we said our good byes with a plan to get together one more time before we leave.    Glad we could help them out.

Connie and Steve

Stopped at Whole Foods and on home.    After lunch, we walked over  to see Jim and Lydia.    Today is her birthday and she's doing really well with her new hip.  We told Nicole, their daughter good bye as she's flying back to St. Louis tonight.    What a big help she's been to her Mom (and Dad)! 

The Birthday Girl🎂

We had spaghetti for supper using the sauce we bought last Sunday at church!    Very good along with a salad, garlic toast and wine!

Went for a walk - still really warm but a nice breeze.   Visited with some folks - everyone is coming down the home stretch like us....

Wednesday - March 26

 Hot 'n sunny!   We had a big day with boating friends from Mid Illini Power Squadron for our annual winter gathering in Florida.    Barb and Roger drove from Bonita Springs to our place and then Mark drove us to the Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club for lunch.    What a beautiful facility overlooking the Peace River.  Just 7 of us this year and missed Ron and Pat from Bradenton who had to cancel yesterday.

Lunch was delicious and as always, so fun to catch up with everyone.    

Mark, Pat, Marcia, Barb, Roger H, Jeanne, Roger P

Afterwards we went to Roger's condo in Punta Gorda for dessert (lemon pound cake and chocolate cream pie) and more visiting.   A very enjoyable day!

Back to Flo and said our good byes to Barb and Roger.   

Walked after supper - a nice cool down!

Tuesday - March 25

 We went to 7:30 Mass at St. Francis with Father Steve,   Then to Peter's for yummy breakfast and sat in the courtyard on this warm morning.   We had a little rain overnight.

Passed Charlotte on her morning walk along Palm Beach Blvd - honked at her and she waved.   We'll see she and Doug later this afternoon!    

On home - changed into walking shoes and got some steps in before the heat returns.

We met Charlotte and Doug at the Broadway Palm dinner theater.   We had drinks in the lobby and then to our seats for very good buffet dinner followed by the musical "Crazy for You" - oh my.........so many wonderful songs from the Gershwin era.    It was a very delightful entertaining show and we all loved it.    A BIG thank you to Michael and Brooke for the gift certificate on my birthday.

Charlotte, Doug, Mark, Pat

But then time to say good bye to Charlotte and Doug as they are leaving for home soon.    We've had sooo many fun times together since these snowbirds and dear friends arrived 4 months ago   Tears and hugs till we meet again in December.

More and more folks are leaving for the season.....we love CT, the friendliness of all the residents, the huge amount of activities and events and now, the latest "BIG" thanks for all the generous donations (monetary, food, clothing, Christmas for elementary school kiddos, teacher appreciation gifts, animal shelter, etc., etc.) that we've provided throughout the year. WOW......................way to go CT

Monday - March 24

Brady is 19

Happy Birthday to our Notre Dame freshman!    Wishing him a great year ahead and may he always stay as sweet, kind and respectful as he is now!

It's going to be a HOT week here in SWFL.....we walked to the clubhouse where I played canasta and Mark kept on getting more steps.

 Fun morning with the girls - Sue, Kathy and I barely squeaked out a win over Susan, Anne and Mary.

Back home, and we left for Panera for lunch and then several errands, including Trader Joe's to stock up on their goodies and a car wash for Ruby.

Home to put stuff away and take naps!   Laundry, chat with Brady and a walk later filled out our day!

Sunday - March 23

 Went to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis with Father Robert.   After Mass, Valerie was selling frozen small and large containers of homemade spaghetti sauce leftover from the spaghetti dinner before the Edison parade.

 Then to the new Starbucks on Palm Beach Blvd.    They definitely cater to the drive thru's and online orders.    We went inside and waited and waited and waited - over 20 minutes to get our coffees.   Oh well....new places always have kinks to work out - just glad they are here!

Stopped at Publix for a few groceries and on home.   I made a batch of BBQ.   It was mostly cloudy today but warm.   Sun did come out late afternoon.  

Connor had a miserable day on the golf course - cold, wind and rain!   He shot an 80 today.   There were 112 golfers and he placed 42.

We walked after supper - visited with some folks who were on their way to "Movie" night at the clubhouse.

Only 7 on zoom tonight - Jim gave an update on Lydia, Joan's very hurting ankle (goes to Dr. on Wednesday), Beth is in Japan with daughter Megan for 2 weeks, etc.

Enjoy your week

Saturday - March 22

 Last night's event with the dogs at the hockey game was called "Paws and Pucks"!    Today, Anne and Liam (no dogs) were off to Weaver Ridge in Peoria to watch Connor and golf team play in a 2-day tournament.   Geez.....it was in the 30's when they teed off.    Anne and Liam stayed for just 4 holes as it was so cold and then they were headed to Iowa City and Liam's last few weeks as a sophomore.   He enjoyed his spring break!

Mark had a package ready for pick-up at Amazon (Save-a-Lot) and since it was across the street from Hardees, he was ready for a biscuits and gravy fix.   We really like their biscuits.

We walked when we got home, and worked in the she shed organizing and started a little bit getting things ready for when we leave (April 14th).

We picked up Mark and Brenda for dinner at Cooper's Hawk - another wonderful meal and good to catch up with these friends here in the park from New Philadelphia, OH.   They are leaving April 4th and just returned from home where they celebrated Brenda's Dad's 99th birthday!

  

Mark, Brenda, Pat, Mark

and then our desserts!

Mark and I shared the 

Banoffee Pie

Mark and Brenda shared the

Carrot Cake

 Connor shot a 79 today.....hope it warms up a bit for the golfers tomorrow although rain is in the forecast.  

Lydia is now settled in a nearby hotel for a few days - she won't have to deal with steps as she regains her strength and balance and adjusts to her new hip!   We wish her a speedy recovery!

Friday - March 21

BURRRR...it was really chilly and windy when we left at 7 AM for 7:30 Mass at St. Francis.    This weekday mass is held in the chapel and today, we had Father Robert.

Afterwards, we went to Ella Mae's for delicious breakfast - Mark had the peach pecan French toast and I had my favorite, banana crunch pancake.   Also enjoyed our coffees from Dean Street Coffee Roasters.

Had a few errands before heading home.    Stopped at Flo briefly and then to play euchre.   Judy joined us for a game of 3-handed which Mark won.   Linda then came and we played 4-handed which Judy and Linda beat Mark and me.   Fun time!

Quiet day for us.....but happy to hear that Lydia's hip replacement went well today.    She will spend tonight in the hospital.    So thankful for this news and 1st surgery to correct her hip/spine issues is behind her.

Philip saw his primary doctor today and confirmed that he does have shingles.   Surprised he would get them at his age, but I guess age has nothing to do with it!    Dr. said he could expect another week of discomfort/pain.   He's on 2 antibiotics.

Jim and daughter, Nicole stopped by.    They left Lydia sleeping and taking a break.   Great to hear all about Lydia's procedure, good results, etc.   Jim was showing Nicole around the park as they left for a walk (Jim is extremely dedicated to get his 10,000 + steps each and every day).

Jim and Nicole (visiting from St. Louis)

We walked later in the afternoon ...and visited with some folks out enjoying this gorgeous day - cooler with low 70's, but wind finally died down.   We were talking at euchre this morning that as many activities as we have here at CT ((473 lots), there are still so many people we come across who we've never seen before (been here 7 years)!    

We checked in with Barb and Joe (5 lots away) to tell them good bye as they planned to leave tomorrow for IL.   However, some nasty weather could be coming over the weekend between here and their home, so....they're staying put till Tuesday.    We sat under their tiki and had a nice visit, but then it got really chilly, so...nighty night!

Tonight Anne, Liam, Gibson and Frankie are at the Bison hockey game in downtown Bloomington.   It's "Dog Night" and Anne said there are more dogs than people!!!

Liam and his furry buddies

Thursday - March 20

 The strong winds were today back along with lots of sunshine and a high of 79.   Mark and I walked to the clubhouse - I went in to play rummikub in the library and he walked back to Flo and dealt with some projects.   

Jo, Nancy and I played 6 games of rummikub with "Queen" Jo winning 4 games, Nancy and I, one each.    Lots of fun!   Mark met me at Jim and Lydia's afterwards as we wanted to wish her good luck tomorrow when she has her hip replacement.   She is sooo ready to get her new hip and be free of pain.

On home for lunch and a quiet afternoon.   

Larry and Sue from Cobourg, Ontario who we got together with last summer in Cobourg, invited us for dinner tonight.    They have a beautiful outdoor kitchen and furniture under their tiki.    What a fun evening enjoying their chicken stir fry over spaghetti (Larry prepared the chicken and veggies on their blackstone grill).  I brought dessert and then we played 3 games of euchre with Mark and Sue winning the first two, but Larry and I came back and "skunked" 'em.   Very enjoying evening.

Grilled chicken and veggies prepared by Chef Larry

Sue and Larry

The winds are still very strong....and it's chilly!

Wednesday - March 19

 HAPPY   BIRTHDAY   DAVIS

"23"

Davis at the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland

Davis is enjoying his home and job in Winston Salem.     He has made us very proud!

Very warm again today but just a nice breeze instead of the crazy winds we've  been having!   Mark left for a haircut downtown with Jose and I played canasta with the gals (26).    Lisa, Donna and I beat Jo, Beth and Dayna.    We finished early so Dayna  suggested we play "Swoop", a new card game for the rest of us.   Lots of fun....we played 3 games with Lisa winning 2 and 1 win for me.

On home for lunch and then ran some errands (Wal Mart and Aldi) and on home.   

Worked on some logistics for fall girls trip with Kathy and Claire to Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) in Canada.

Homemade pizza and salad for supper.  We walked and later had a good chat with the birthday boy!   

There are several young folks (grandchildren) in the park these days for spring break.   Lucky for the kiddos and their G and G.

Till tomorrow...

Tuesday - March 18

 A  very fun day spent with my dear friend Claire.   We met at Wilford and Lee Home Accents.    Then to Anthony's and finally Bell Tower.   Did some retail therapy and off  to lunch.   This was our last hurrah before Claire heads back to IL.   Lunch at Bahama Breeze was excellent and of course, aways plenty to chat about.

Claire and Pat with our yummy coconut mojitos

Said our good byes and look forward to being together in Bloomington in May.   Great day!

On home....I just missed Joan (Marks sister) and Joe from Arcadia who came to drop off the cricket (mini golf cart) which we'll store in the she shed at end of season.   Joe also helped Mark and Jim install (switch out air conditioners) in sheds which they always appreciate Joe's help at beginning and end of season.

Joan is having terrible pain in her ankle (she's had 2 ankle and 2 knee replacements).   She's been doing well this winter, waking much more, etc., but just the past few days, she is really hurting.    So....they are heading back to IL tomorrow and has appointment set up with her orthopedic doctor for the 26th.    Safe travels and sure enjoyed some fun times this winter.

Mark and I caught up on our day, had some leftovers for dinner and then a walk in the park.

Monday - March 17

H A P P Y   ST.   P A D D Y'S   D A Y 

This guy and I wish you a happy IRISH day and many blessings in the year ahead!

Much cooler today (low 70's) but still very windy.   I played canasta for the first time in a few weeks - 28 ladies.   My partners (Susan and Linda) lost to Eileen, Anne and Denise.

Met Mark afterwards and we went to Farmer's Market for Corned Beef and Cabbage (Mark) and I had their stuffed green pepper (Monday special).  Mark enjoyed his but corned beef was not as tender as Matanza's on FMB that we remember from several years ago and hasn't come back since Ian.    We both had plenty of leftovers (just after we cleared out the fridge this morning of the last of the boxes)!   😀

Then to Regional Radiology on Winkler for my DEXA scan (bone density).    On home and put some laundry away.   Mark worked on back of truck organizing.   Still had stuff in the she shed we had taken out for trip to Lakeland.

The St. Paddy's parade at CT kicked off at 3:30 and I think there were about 10 golf carts decorated.   They threw out koozies and candy.

One of the parade participants

Went for a walk - such a pretty day.    Big party at the clubhouse tonight serving Reubens and Rachels, music, etc.

Had planned on another walk after supper, but burr....temps are dropping and winds still very strong so....I wimped out!

Sunday - March 16

 Another warm 'n windy day....we picked up Barb and Joe and went to 9:00 Mass at St. Vincent de Paul with Father Murchadh O'Madagain.   The church was packed, the music was beautiful and Father Murchadh's homily was excellent.

After Mass we drove to Blossom and Brie in North Fort Myers - farm to table for brunch.    It was packed with diners enjoying their meals in this rural setting.   What a popular spot and sooo delicious! I love Blossom and Brie.

Mark, Pat, Barb, Joe

On home and good bye to Joe and Barb.   They live on a farm, so really enjoyed getting back in the country.  They're leaving next Saturday for home in IL.

Mark and I took a nap and then a quiet rest of the day.   Brenda (next door) and I visited - she had a but of neighborhood gossip!

The new Starbucks on Palm Beach Boulevard is finally open....we've been watching this being built for a long time.   We prefer Peter's downtown but this is a bit closer so I'm sure we'll be checking it out when we're out that way.

Zoom tonight with 8 siblings and the usual chatter!

Brady just finished his spring break (part of it in Fort Lauderdale and also Lake James).   He's now heading back to Notre Dame and called us - great visit!    Cant believe our 3 college kiddos are coming down the home stretch with freshman year (Brady and Connor) and sophomore (Liam)

Saturday - March 15

 We had breakfast and then went for a walk.    Today is the once-a-month garage sale in the park, so lots of folks out and about checking out the treasures, etc.    We had good visits with Sue and Paul and later, Barb and Joe, all from IL.

On home and we gave Flo a good bath and I washed the windows and did some laundry.   It is hot today and very windy!

Mark ran several errands and picked up a few groceries at Publix.   It was in the upper 80's

We had a very warm, windy walk around 6:15.....more leftovers for supper (coming down the home stretch)!   😅

So much devastation from tornadoes....praying for the victims, their families and all those involved in the massive cleanup.

Friday - March 14

 Very warm and sunny Friday.   We went to 9:00 Mass at St. Vincent de Paul with Father Murchadh.   Back home for a bit, light breakfast and then off to Naples.

We met Dick and Shirley, high school classmates of mine at Hogfish Harry's.    This is a favorite of theirs, but first time for us - it's part of a huge resort (Park Shore Condominiums) and is tucked away in a beautiful quiet area of lush vegetation and flowering plants along with waterfalls, ponds and bridges to meander about.    What a gem, food was excellent and such a pretty setting.    Mark had the hogfish and I had a kale/brussel salad with a lemon/maple dressing!   

We've been meeting Dick and Shirley from Dixon, IL since 2017 each winter when we're all here in FL.   So much to catch up on and another great visit by the large pool with many  condo guests enjoying themselves this warm day

Dick, Shirley, Mark, Pat

We stopped at Dillards in Coastland Center to check out possible dresses for upcoming weddings (Ryan and Drew).   Nothing too exciting - sooo many online.

The trip home was stressful with heavy traffic on I-75 and a 4-car accident.    We both took a nap, had a light supper and then walked.

Thursday - March 13

 We were up early and pulling out of Lot 288 at Sanlan at 7:10 today.    Lots of traffic (we really think the Lakeland traffic is as bad as Fort Myers)!   😕

Arrived at Truma and Mark did an excellent job of backing Flo into a narrow garage - Dave was waiting for us and praised Mark for his backing-up skills!   Mark and Dave went over everything and Dave said he would be done by we left for Bob and Linda's.   Arrived at 8:30 and left shortly after with Bob driving to pick up Ron and off to Athenian's for breakfast.   Vicki had PT so not able to join us.   Great breakfast!   

Back to Bob's - Linda and I played RummiKub (I won) and then they were  off - Linda to play cards with the ladies and Bob to ride in the golf cart with the guys (he still needs to wait a few weeks after his gallbladder surgery till he can hit the ball).    Said our good byes and look forward to their visit to Fort Myers in April.

Serious game of RummiKub

Off to Ron and Vicki's.....we visited for an hour and then left for Truma at 1:45.   We had just left a few minutes when Dave called and said he was wrapping up the work on Flo.   Perfect timing....Dave talked Mark thru what he had done, the efficiency of this new water heater, etc., etc.  

Ron's cute little cart (formerly a lawnmower) he uses to get around the park and do his many projects!

We arrived back to CT at 5.   Got Flo settled (another fine back-up job by Mark).   There's always tomorrow to finish getting all our stuff back in order,    We are tired, so no euchre for us tonight.

Leftovers tonight from Harry's - so much delicious eating these past 3 days!   🐷🐷🐷

We had this visit to Lakeland planned quite awhile, but what are the odds that Lakeland is where we could get a new hot water heater (only service center besides Elkhart, IN and Phoenix, AZ)!!!   

Jim and Lydia stopped by with an order of crab rangoon from Pincher's - wow.....these guys are OK as we ALL love this yummy appetizer.   Great news for Lydia - today she went to a spine doctor in Naples.    After all the pain and discomfort and agony she's been thru for such a long time.....there is a light at the end of the tunnel.    She's to have a hip replacement next Friday, the 21st and then spine surgery on May 27th.    We wish her all the best!🙏🙏

Wednesday - March 12

 WELCOME to Roman Matthew born to nephew Matt and Kara on March 11th.  Roman is the 1st grandchild for Tom (Mark's brother) and Beth.

Roman - 7 lbs., 4 oz. and 19.75"

It was another fun day in Lakeland.    Mark and I met the family at Frescos (downtown) for breakfast - this is a definite favorite and today's was sooo yummy.    Mark took Ron, Vicki and Bob back home and Linda and I checked out Babe's (very nice ladies boutique)    We both did more damage!!!

Ron, Bob, Mark

Vicki, Linda, Pat

Linda, Vicki and I played canasta - I had terrible cards and since there was a mishap in the counting, we'll give Vicki and Linda a tie!   It was interesting playing with 3 and no partners.   Played a game of  SkyJo but didn't quite finish with Linda in the lead.  

  After the big breakfast and afternoon snacks, no one was really hungry, but we did go to Fish Tail Grill - Mark and I shared a shrimp/lobster grilled cheese and he had a cup of clam chowder.    It was delicious!    Said our good byes and on back to Flo to get her hooked up to Big Red.   We have an early departure time tomorrow to take Flo to Truma for new hot water heater.....nighty night.

Vicki, inda, Paqt, Mark, Bob, Ron

Whenever we leave or return to Sanlan RV and Golf Resort, we drive past a very large new hospital (7 stories) under construction.    The entire area is huge and plans are to open in June, 2026 under the name Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital (what a mouthful).

Till tomorrow...

 

Tuesday - March 11

   We left Flo and the Sanlan RV Resort at 8 for Truma Service Center.   Traffic was heavy but finally got there and Mark had a good chat with Dave, the technician.   Mark had a bunch of ??? regarding having Flo's new hot water heater installed on Thursday and what all was involved.   Mark was happy after their visit and we'll be back there early Thursday morning.

Tried finding a coffee shop, and there was a bunch, but all in a different direction from Bob and Linda's. so settled for Dunkin and a donut to go with our coffee.    Arrived at 9:15 and we got in Bob's car and away we went to Tarpon Springs (should be 1 1/2 hrs., but not with the FL traffic.) 😕    This has been a long tradition when we come to Lakeland to spend a day in this Greek community enjoying the great shopping and wonderful Greek food.

Linda and I started with a shop we remembered from last year and each bought a pair of shoes.   Met the guys at Hellas for our "traditional" lunch - Greek salad and gyros, but this year per Vicki's suggestion, we started out with Saganaki (flaming cheese) - excellent as was everything else

Here's our delicious lunch in pictures....

Flaming cheese

Saganaki

Greek Salad 

Gyro

And a trip to Hellas wouldn''t be complete without stopping at their bakery which is full of thee most beautiful desserts 

Mark had an eclair topped with fresh fruit

I had a ladyfinger crust with fresh fruit

Ron and Vicki were not able to join us but we brought back their favorite choices (strawberry cheesecake and tiramisu).

After lunch, Linda and I hit several more shops - such a beautiful day and we did our part to boost the Tarpon economy!   😃

On home with very heavy traffic - sure appreciate Bob driving.    Had some drinks at their home and then on back to Flo.    Tomorrow....another fun day planned!

Monday - March 10

 We had planned to leave after lunch today for Lakeland, but the weather sounded rainy and windy....so we were on our way with Flo and Big Red at 9:15.   Had some rain off and on but nothing too heavy.    Arrived safe 'n sound and all settled at Sanlan RV Park after stopping at Zaxby's for a quick lunch in Bartow - we ate in Big Red as Zaxby's was FREEZING.   They have a nice big parking lot, so worked out well.

We went to Bob and Linda's and Ron and Vicki arrived - fun family time with wine/drinks/munchies and lots of chatter.    Then we were off to (1st Frescos, but they are closed on Mondays for dinner), so off to Harry's which is a favorite downtown of Cajun food.   Very busy but got a table in the bar.    Good food and fun evening catching up!

Ron, Bob, Linda

Vicki, Pat, Mark

Good night and tomorrow....we'll meet again!   Winds are still very strong.

Sunday - March 9

 Today started out very foggy - hardly could see Sunrise Lake across the street, but by 10:45, the skies were clear and sunny.

We went to 11:30 Mass at St. Francis with Father Steve.   Mark's back is giving him some issues.   He's working on getting Flo and Big Red ready for travel tomorrow, but going slow.   Gary, next door, helped with the hitch.

I defrosted the fridge and stowed stuff away so nothing is flying around inside Flo as she's truckin[' on down the road tomorrow.

Yesterday while out walking, we stopped and visited with Clement from Quebec who has thee most gorgeous impatiens.   We had a nice chat.....he's a farmer and uses fertilizer once a week.   They left for home this morning and tonight, so sad to pass by and see the empty pots which he puts in the ground.

Clement has quite the green thumb....one of his beauties had already been discarded😔

Today, there are no colorful blooms  😔

This pretty waterfall and pond were at the MiRum Bucket yesterday

Mark grilled some Italian sausages for tomorrow and I made mini pizzas (sausage and pepperoni) for supper,   Baked a little too long in the air fryer, but still good!    Takes some getting used to and since we don't use it that often???   😟

 Zoom tonight included 8 siblings and discussion on bones, hearts, calcium, etc. among other things!

Michael is in Iowa City for the visitation and funeral for his boss from many years ago.   He had lunch in Cedar Rapids with Drew and Tessa and then dinner with Liam.

Michael and Liam 

Wig 'n Pen Pizza Pub

  

Saturday - March 8

 Very warm today with lots of sunshine.   The highlight of our Saturday was meeting Charlotte and Doug for lunch at The Rum Bucket - they had never been.   We sat outside and enjoyed our lunch and conversation!   Great afternoon!

Mark, Pat, Charlotte, Doug

In between lunch we walked in the park.....almost daylight savings coming and losing that hour of sleep!  

Friday - March 7

 Spectacular day....I was off to get a haircut.  Starbucks shares the same parking lot, so first, got a hazelnut latte.  So much fun to yak with Jewel and catch up on each others news.  Back home and fixed Trader Joe's tomato/basil soup (sooo good) and grilled cheese on sourdough!

Mark was working away while I was gone getting Big Red ready for traveling on Monday to Lakeland.   Gary, next door, helped him lift bins into back of truck that had been stored underneath Flo.   Since we hadn't planned to be here the next 3 days, now we have extra time to get it all together!

Did a load of laundry and organized our closet.   I walked in the afternoon and then we both  walked late afternoon.   Visited with neighbors Joe and Barb but kept our distance as Joe has been sick with fever, cold, cough, etc.    And Barb is all stuffy....still so much sickness going around.

Enjoy your weekend!

 

Thursday - March 6

 I played RummiKub in the library with Vicki for 2 games (I won both) and then Anne joined us for 2 more games with Vicki and I the winners.   

Mark drove to the Coconut Point Medical facility (where I had my shoulder surgery) for a CTA procedure (Coronary Trans Artery).    He had this done in 2004 and all good and in 2010 with a sight change.   Mark asked Dr. McCarty about doing it again (been 15 years) and he gave the ok.    They have a brand new machine and this location has the only one in the Lee Health System.

We both took a nap in the afternoon.....such a beautiful day with deep blue skies, very breezy and sunny - high of 73 but with the strong wind, feels much cooler.

Our weekend plans have changed.   We were leaving tomorrow for Pensacola to visit Blue Angel friends, Carol and Bob from PA.    They are the in-laws of Tom Frosch (Ryan's boss with the Blues).   Bob fell a week ago and has been in the hospital for several days and now in rehab.    Too much going on for Carol and last thing she needs right now is visitors, so....we had a good chat last night and canceled our trip.    We also had planned to meet Ann and Duaine (owners here at 104). in Destin for lunch on Monday, so that won't be happening either.

So, we'll leave Monday afternoon with Flo and drive to Lakeland to visit my brothers and sisters-in-law....Flo has an appointment on the 13th to have a new hot water heater installed in Lakeland.

Euchre tonight and I won with 32 points and Greg had 31 points.    Small crowd - just 3 tables.    Maybe too chilly to venture out?   Fun time!

Wednesday - March 5

 It's Ash Wednesday and the start of the Lenten season.   Mark and I went to 9:00 Mass at St. Vincent de Paul (several from CT were there).   Great to see the church so packed!

Came back home, had a quick bite to eat, changed clothes and then off to Arcadia - first to stop at Dollar Tree and then met Joyce and Butch who came from Frostproof at The Arcadia Seafood Grill for lunch!    Wow....excellent (crab cakes for Mark and me; shrimp for Joyce and Butch).    Right across the hall (this is the old post office and was built in 1926) is the Florida Farmhouse Coffee Shop .   How convenient as when we 4 get together, we usually end up in a coffee shop!    This was a cute little spot, but both the restaurant and coffee shop were very COLD! 

It was so windy today but thought we would sit outside rather than the chilly coffee shop.    Mark and I got a table for 4 and had just sat down when a very big gust of wind blew massive amounts of dust and dirt at us.   Whoaaaa...no thanks, so went back indoors and found another seating area between the restaurant and coffee shop.   Had a great visit....so thankful that Butch is doing really well after his scare from lung cancer.    Alleluia to these dear friends!

Joyce and Butch

Said our good byes as the sky was threatening....hope to see them at Kamp Komfort in May 

A stop at the Ranch RV Park to give Joan a pair of earrings from Janet.    And she gave us an ice pak for Lydia.    It was starting to rain, so a very quick "hi" and "bye".

On home but drove thru some very heavy rain.....and when we got back to CT, not a drop although that changed  a short time after when the heavens opened up big time!   Yikes!

My "boat sisters" arrived home safe 'n sound this afternoon - sooo many happy memories😊 

Tuesday - March 4

 One final day with my "boat sisters" and it was a dandy!    We met for lunch at Buckingham Farms - they loved it!   Back to CT for some games - Donna and I beat Chris and Teri 2 games of euchre; I won at Gin 13 (new game Chris taught us) and finally I taught them RummiKub - they love it and all going to order that game.   Teri and I were the winners.

Playing games

Chris, Pat, Teri, Donna

Mark was our chauffeur and took the ladies to Doc Fords for dinner - but first we drove around and showed them some of the damage from Hurricane Ian.   We were on the patio but it was very breezy and cool, so luckily we could get a table inside - much more pleasant and a wonderful meal.

We've eaten soooo good these past few days!    Stopped at Surf 'n Style and Donna and Teri got in some retail therapy.  

Mark with the boat sisters

Chris, Mark, Donna, Teri

 On home...................sad good byes and big hugs for these dear "sisters".   They hope to make this a tradition each winter and increase by one more day each year!  😃   I will see them Memorial Weekend at Superior Marine.     Wishing them safe travels tomorrow back to Ohio.

Monday - March 3

 Today was so much fun with my boat sisters!!!   First off, I had a good walk in the park this morning and then left to meet the girls at the Luminary Hotel and late breakfast at Ella  Mae's - yummy as always

We walked around downtown and checked out a few shops.  

At the Franklin Shops

Teri, Chris, Donna

 Then back to Cypress Trail and a relaxing afternoon sitting on the patio.....they caught up with Mark and we had lots of laughs   At 4, we enjoyed the Mardi Gras parade here at CT.    Lots of decorated golf carts and the folks throwing out beads and candy.   Fun!

Teri, Chris

Donna, Pat

2 of the decorated golf carts in the Mardi Gras parade

At 4:30, we girls left for downtown to have drinks on top of the Luminary at the Beacon Drinkery.   Beautiful evening to sit outside.   

Teri, Chris, Pat, Donna

on the Caloosahatchee

Time for dinner at Firestone Grill - a wonderful meal at this neat place.     Up to the SkyBar for martinis to end this very enjoyable day with my crazy, fun, awesome "boat sisters"!!!

On home and caught up with Mark and our day....also a good chat with Liam who called to check in!   Nighty night.

Today would've been Mark's mother's 99th birthday!

And 15 years ago today - 3/3/2010, Mark and I were hit as pedestrians walking across the street in St. Pete, FL....