Monday - November 2

 96% humidity this morning - whew, a very drippy walk....most of the rain all went north big time.   We did get a shower around 9:15.

I played canasta and lost again...........Vicki, Lisa and Becky beat Betty Jo, Becky and me by a LOT!    But still fun and imagine that 4 of us (Vicki, Becky, Lisa and I all have a "Mark" in our life as in our hubbies)  

I won't be able to play rest of this week; Euchre and Rummikube will start in January.

We left soon as I got home and stopped at Culver's for a small ice cream cup (pumpkin pecan for me; chocolate for Mark) to tide us over.   Then to the eye Dr. for Mark's exam with Dr. Alessi.    All good for another year.

Then to Dollar Tree and Mark thought Chinese sounded good, so...China Dragon was next stop - ok but not returning anytime soon.   Last stop was meeting with our financial advisor and finally home at 5 just before the next batch of rain started.  

We bought some cranberry white chocolate bread at Publix yesterday - oh my.......especially toasted!

Sunday - November 1

 A rainy Sunday......started with sprinkles and drizzle.    We were up early with the time change an decided to have breakfast before church.    The Oasis, a favorite downtown breakfast/lunch place has new owners (the folks had it for many years and had such a big success but retired and a new guy came in and did a major remodel and renamed it "Fort Myers Brunch".    It's very nice - much brighter with all new furniture, paint, wall decor, etc.   Food was good as ever, too.   I told our waitress who we recognized from The Oasis (been there 20 years) that the only improvement would be to add an espresso machine....she totally agreed!  😋

Then we were off to 9:30 Mass with Father Steve.  Today is the Solemnity of All Saints.  Bigger crowd - snowbirds are gradually coming back.

Stopped at Publix for a few groceries, a latte for me at Chocolatte and on home.    We had just carried in the groceries when it started raining and it's been coming down (very heavy at times) all afternoon, to continue tonight and into tomorrow.    Good afternoon to just hunker down.

Philip, Annette, Luke and Maeve enjoyed their weekend visiting friends in Georgia and what a treat to see the Blue Angels perform yesterday in Peachtree City.

Terrible tragedy in West Palm this afternoon - plane crash that killed nine enroute to the Bahamas.

9 on zoom tonight....Halloween - Janet had 1000 kiddos; Tom and Beth's new neighborhood in Ohio does Halloween on 2 different nights; update on Doris's daughter-in-law, Michelle, dental stuff; all the rain we had and nothing at Shell Point where Jim and Lydia live.    

Have a good week....

Halloween - 2026

 I made egg/sausage/cheese omelets and toast for breakfast and then we went for a sticky walk!   The humidity has been something the past few days!

I washed Flo's windows + the screens and sills.    Big job to have out of the way.    And then..........Saturday college football.    All 3 of my teams started at noon and all 3 WON!!!    I was changing those channels back 'n forth between the 3 games!   

Very exciting afternoon with Notre Dame beating Navy 35-13; Iowa winning over Wisconsin 30-0 and Illinois upsetting Maryland on a last-second play 20-17.

Blair did facetime with me all about Christmas + showing me some new clothes she got.

We walked to the clubhouse parking lot for Big Papa's BBQ food truck - we both had the BBQ sundaes which are so good.   Layers of pulled pork, cole slaw and baked beans.   We also got some peach cobbler!

We had some rain at 5:45 - naturally with my nice clean windows!   

Maeve, our zombie cheerleader

Luke (all black) and Maeve with their friends in Georgia

Enjoy that extra hour of sleep

Friday - October 30

 It was humid when we walked and already 75.    I played canasta and along with Sandy and Vicki B, we lost to Lisa W, Lisa ? and Sue - close game again!   Mark gave Flo a good scrubbing. 

Home for lunch and then I held the ladder while Mark washed Flo's roof.    Windows tomorrow.   Sure looks like rain, but very spotty.   At 3, we did get a very brief shower.

We walked after supper - nice breeze.    

This plant is in abundance here at CT.   Not sure what it's called, but....really blooming big time now.

Just one of many

And this little one is getting started but doing well on our lot

My Monday Night Friends have been sending some cute pics of their grandchildren dressed up for Halloween.    Our Maeve and Luke are visiting friends in Georgia this weekend....

Jack and Luke on the golf course

 

Maeve has got some serious "claws" going on before Halloween!

H A P P Y   H A L L O W E E N !!!

Thursday - October 29

 Warm sunny day - started out with a walk, breakfast and then to Coffee Rush (a favorite coffee shop - just drive-thru) for our fix (their white chocolate maple latte is sooo good).    Mark had his usual decaf Americano and a cheese Danish.   We were sitting in the car and from the time Mark ordered, she took our $ and delivered coffee/food, the gal said "perfect" TEN times.   I started counting and when she got to 5x, I thought "wow, this is it" and she continued 5 more times.   Oh well....just something we find humorous!    Doesn't take much for us to have a good laugh!

Then more errands, including new tennies for each of us (Snyderman's Shoes is a great place and their staff is so knowledgeable.)   They know when new shoes are in need from how the soles look.   So, we walked out with some classy comfort and will be great for walking!    Also got some new sunglasses (me).   So, a $$$ morning but fun 😊

Off to Cristof's to meet Rog and Martin for lunch.    They were our next-door neighbors here at CT for a few years before they got out of RVing and bought a condo.    It's always fun to get together and catch up and we had lots to yak about over a delicious lunch + a shared "bomb" - round ball of spumoni surrounded by dark chocolate hard shell - DELISH (a favorite for Claire and I when we eat here).    We shared this (well, not Martin as he's not into chocolate 😟).

We asked our waitress to take our picture and she said "do you want me to clear the table first"?    We said "no, that's ok" and she said "well, you can always ask Chat GPT."  

Mark, Pat, Rog, Martin

messy table

 We laughed and when we got home, that's exactly what techie Mark did.............tah dah!!!

Same people; no mess!    Ha....

Said our goodbyes after 2+ hours and on home for us!   Mark took a nap.   I enjoyed puzzles (obsessed with these and the fall ones are out - so many really neat ones)!   LOVE my puzzles!

Wednesday - October 28

 Wacky (or as Blair would say "wonky") weather day - dreary and misty, then sun, drizzle, sun, heavier rain, sun and on it went.    We were out and about and it poured and a few miles down the road....dry as could be!

I played canasta and lost at the very end - Vicki B, Vicki F and I could not pull out the win to Vicki H, Becky and Sandy.    There are so many Lisa's and Vicki's in the park with more to come!

We had planned to wash Flo this afternoon but not with the icky weather + it was very windy.    So decided to go grab some lunch and run a bunch of errands.    We had several gift cards to restaurants, so today, chose Panera as it was close to other stops.    Got several errands out of the way and then home sweet home for naps!

While I was playing canasta, Mark was dealing with doctor offices, changing his scheduled colonoscopy, making appts, etc.    Arghhh what a struggle.    Gone are the days when we all had one main doctor and no issue scheduling this or that.   He talked to the scheduler for his cardiologist (changed from October to November and now January).    He is on a cancellation list but the next available appt. is June.    Crazy.....and after his colonoscopy they want Mark to meet with Michael, APRN to go over the results.....the procedure is in February but can't get in with Michael till late April and we'll be gone.   Just nuts and frustrating!

Tonight we played Lucky 13 (bingo with cards) at the clubhouse and I won 2x for $26.50. We had 6 tables and fun as always.   We sat with Jerry and Barb from NJ, Beverly and Danny from KY and Lisa and Kenny from NC.    This game originated back in 2014 when CT first opened.        

Tuesday - October 27

Well, today was the pits!!!    ARGH......UGH....

We walked in the morning, Mark did some computer work and I did 2 loads of laundry.  After lunch we left for my haircut with Destiny and since Culver's was close by, Mark enjoyed some ice cream with his I-pad while waiting for me.    Later we drove past the house that my boat sisters are renting for early March when they come to Fort Myers.

Drove downtown and checked out Bruno's Italian Market (this just opened last month and is in the location of the former Bruno's Italian restaurant which now is in a very nice, much larger location a few blocks away).    The market is open for lunch and has a variety of Italian goodies, wine, ready to go meals, desserts, etc.   They've done very well since opening.  

Next stop was SW Florida Root Canal Specialists to see my "newest" doctor, an endodontist, Dr. Lee about my possible root canal work???    Well.....Mark dropped me off and he left for his appt. with his gastro dr. regarding colonoscopy coming in the new year.   This was rescheduled today after not being able to get out of the park yesterday with the school bus accident and deputy sheriff getting hit by car.

   After some really high-tech x-rays + regular ones, Dr. came in and showed me and explained my teeth dilemma.    I knew there was a possibility that I would need 2 root canals, but what a shock and disbelief that I need THREE.     WHAT?????    Holy smokes....was not prepared for that, but it is happening and my first (of many) appts. will be next week.   

I guess I've been lucky over the years - no root canals, no implants, and haven't had a cavity in eons....after I left the office, I walked (.7) to Starbucks and waited for Mark to pick me up.   

So, in light of all the very serious health issues going on with family/friends, I will put my "big-girl" panties on and deal with this latest glitch!    "3" is what really blew my mind! 😟

Our Fed Ex brothers are flying tonight together for 1st time to Montana!

Monday - October 26

 Very windy today but the sun was shining and low 80s.   Mark had a dr. appt. and planned to leave at 8:30 only to find out Tice Street (in front of CT) was totally blocked in both directions.    There had been an accident involving 2 school buses in front of the Manatee Elementary school and then while a deputy sheriff was directing traffic, he was hit by a car.....no other details.    There was no way outta here so Mark had to call and cancel his appt.    

Luckily he was able to reschedule for tomorrow afternoon (he'll see the PA).    We each walked going our separate ways.   

I played canasta for the 1st time this season - so much fun and happy to be back with these gals although there were only 9 of us and one guy.   Anita, Sandy and I beat Vicki, Donna and Sue.    Home for lunch and naps.

Went to The Lodge for supper.   It was so cold inside so we braved the wind and sat outside.  Mark wanted some ice cream afterwards, so Scoops on First was close by.....absolutely freezing in there, too!

Have you noticed the waitresses and waiters (mainly ladies) or other young people dealing with the public are constantly saying "Perfect"!!!!    Over and over we hear it.    A few years ago they were saying "Absolutely"!    😀 

We drove past the new Legacy Marina which was destroyed by Ian with the docks and boats washed away or severely damaged.    And now 4 years later, it is finally back in business - at least open and operating and one large yacht was there tonight.   When completely finished with Nervous Nellies as the restaurant replacing Joe's Crab Shack, it will be really nice and a big asset to downtown.

Sunday - October 25

 Beautiful day but really windy - we could get "high" from this awesome weather!!!   Went to 9:30 Mass at St. Francis with Father Robert.    Then "Take Two Coffee" for coffee and their yummy donuts!    Filled Ruby up and on home.

Enjoyed a quiet afternoon on Flo.    We walked later and had a nice chat with Dave and Sue from Michigan.    We play euchre with them on Thursday nights.

Tonight's Zoom had all but Marilyn, Doris, Sharon and Tom H.    Joan updated us on her ongoing ankle issues and will have more surgery next spring.    She's been thru so much.    Also much talk about golf.

Have an awesome week!

Saturday - October 24

 Today was full of sunshine and a nice warm breeze.    We wore jackets when we started walking, but warmed up fast.    I worked in the she shed and now nicely organized.

Mark worked on medical stuff related to Panama Canal cruise we're taking in January.

Watched football - Illini won; Iowa lost; a bye week for Notre Dame.    Too much excitement for this Grandma!!!!!!

Mark went to Rib City and picked up our baby back ribs, baked beans, cole slaw and Texas toast - all sooo yummy + some leftovers!

I watched the final painful moments of the Iowa/Minnesota game while Mark went for his walk - should've walked!😒

Friday - October 23

Wow....I slept in big time!    Guess all those medical appts. and family/friend outings caught up with me!   😀   After breakfast, we walked and then set to work.    Mark emptied out Big Red and was off to get 2 new batteries as they were 2 years past their 3-year lifespan.    He got Big Red cleaned inside and out and filled with diesel, so....$$$$ later, he came home and got the cover on Big Red and all protected from the warm sunshine this winter.

I organized clothes in our closet and lockers and then tackled the she shed (not a 1-day job)!  

Mark has had a doctor appt since March for October, but this summer he got a call that they rescheduled for November.    Today they called and said they needed to reschedule for January!    ARGHHH.    Just crazy and unacceptable!   Now he's on a waiting list.    

And more and more doctors are handing we patients over to their PA or NP.

Walked in the evening - so pleasant and had a nice chat with the newbies, Kenny and Lisa.

Thursday - October 22

 Warm and sunny Friday....we left at 8:10 for Sweet Bean Cafe to meet Connie and Steve for breakfast at this favorite for all of us.    Great to catch up with these 2 long-time friends and look forward to more fun outings (and eating) over the next several months.

Mark, Pat, Steve, Connie

Then to Broadway Palm to get tickets for "Oklahoma" when my boat sister, Donna comes to visit the end of January.

Lunch with John and Beth at Dixie Fish Co.    Great visit and lunch hearing all about John's recent health issues - my oh my, both of them have been "thru the mill" dealing with these scary situations.    All good now and so thankful.    We'll be planning a get together with Jim and Lydia before they all leave for more travels in the future.

John, Beth, Pat, Mark

Quick stop at Wal Mart and on home.    Jim and Lydia were in the park this afternoon - Lydia played mahjong with the ladies and Jim was cleaning his pavers and got the patio furniture out of shed before renters will be coming.   They stopped by to visit later. 

We walked in the evening and met Lisa and Brody (dog).    Lisa and Kenny just bought a lot here at CT and are from Chapel Hill, NC

Wednesday - October 21

Whew.....a very busy day starting with our leaving CT at 7:15 for Mark's primary check-up.   He saw a new doctor (Nancy Zurita).    We liked her very much (so young)!😄  Everything was good and he'll be back in 6 months.

Next up was coffee at "Coffee Rush" and then to Target for a few things.   Philip called along the way as he was traveling back to Memphis.  He still has a few weeks of training (simulator).

While at Target, I had wanted to get my flu shot (Mark got his with Dr. Nancy, but since my Dr. Olga is not in the Lee Health System, I couldn't get it).    Dr. Olga's nurse was not in yesterday, so....while at Target, it was not quite 9, so the gates at pharmacy don't go up till 9.    But, they went up at 8:55.....and after a guy asked how he could help me and I said "I would like my flu vaccine", he told me, "oh the pharmacist won't be in for 15 minutes!!!"     Arghhh

So, off to another CVS (closer to CT) and "Will", the pharmacist was busy but said he could help me in a minute which turned out to be longer.    I told him he was "3rd try to get this vaccine today" and about the last CVS and no pharmacist working.   He was shocked cause those gates should never go up till their employees (especially the pharmacist) are ready to start working!    Oh well.....Will gave me the vaccine and then we went home for a short time.

Next up was our dermatologist appts. with Dr. Kagen.    All good for Mark....I've had some nasty spots on my legs for years (long-time sun exposure from back in the day).     Dr. Kagen recommended some cream (last visit April 15th before we left FL).    Been using that for many weeks and no real change; in fact, sometimes very red and irritated.

So, today he decided on Plan B - a liquid compound chemo to use 2x a day for 2 weeks and then go back to see him.    Dr. said they could become very very red......we shall see - oh joy!!!

Since Riverchase Dermatology is across the street from Lakes Park where they have a huge Farmer's Market every Wednesday (Jim and Lydia enjoy this), we decided to walk around.   It is quite large with many vendors - mostly food but lots of other choices.    We found a hog dog stand and Mark had a chili/cheese dawg and I had a Chicago Style dawg - both very good.    So many people out and about this pretty day.

We were still hungry and so Cold Stone Creamery was near by and enjoyed some delicious ice cream treats.    The Cypress Compound Pharmacy was close by so stopped there hoping my Rx was ready and I only had to wait a few minutes.    We had never heard of a compound pharmacy (where they actually mix or make up the medicine).    It's a roll on so should be easy to apply morning and night.

And our last stop of the day was WalMart to pick up a few things + 2 more Rx.   What a nice surprise to run into Judy, a CT resident who we play euchre with - she's a lot of fun and just returned with 5 other gals from a trip to Savannah which they loved.    When we were in Muskegon, MI this summer with Linda (another CT resident), she told me she was going on a girls trip in October to Savannah, so....they are back and had a ball.   Finally on home for us.

Some big news to share..............Liam was all set to graduate next May 15th from U of Iowa.    But after checking with 2 advisors, he has enough credits and will graduate December 20th.    WOW.....so proud of him - 2 majors (math and computer science) in 3 1/2 years + working part time.   Since we'll be back for the Chamberlain Christmas the 19th, this will work out just fine!

Driving around today in several areas of Fort Myers, we were amazed at the new construction still ongoing and mostly apartments - many many new ones going up plus the never-ending road work.  

Went for a walk after supper and saw some familiar faces!

I watched the Dolly "I Will Always Love You" special tonight - 2 hours of absolute delight from so many stars singing her big hits plus all the wonderful tributes and memories.    I had my share of tears, too.    We all loved Dolly.   

 

Tuesday - October 20

 We left at 9:15 for my 10:00 appt. with my primary, Dr. Olga, but,.....she was running way late (1 hour 15 minutes).     She was very apologetic and all good with my check-up.

Lunch at Biscotti across the street from our dentist, Dr. Baxmann.    All good with Mark's teeth, but there may be some possible issues for me with 2 teeth (nothing hurts), so I'll be seeing an endodontist to check things out..ugh.   

Finally home at 2:30.    Did a load of laundry and made some appts. 

We went for a walk after supper - very pleasant out, but CT is still pretty quiet with lots of folks not here yet.

Sunday-Monday, October 18-19

 We are home from a whirlwind, fun trip to Lakeland, Orlando and Lake Wales.

Sunday - we left CT at 8:30 and stopped at The Rose' Cafe in Arcadia for coffee.   Onto Lakeland and met my brother Ron and Vicki at Grillsmith for lunch.    So good to be with them as it was April 15th when we were last together (the day we left FL for the season).    Over a good lunch, we yakked away and then went to their home for 2 more hours of visiting and some games of "Swoop" or as they call it in Lakeland "Tens".    Fun game.

Ron and Vicki

Next stop was Orlando and checked into our hotel on International Drive - so much traffic mainly leaving the Disney parks.    Michael and family are having a great time and they were back at the hotel around 6.    We ubered to Cooper's Hawk (1st time for any of them to eat at one of our favorites).    We had a nice round table and chattered away.   Big day for them and the many rides they enjoyed.  But before calling it a day, the kiddos (Blair, Brady and Davis) wanted to play mini golf at Pirate's Cove.   Rest of us were off to dreamland.

Dinner at Cooper's Hawk

Brady, Blair, Davis, Brooke, Pat, Mark, Michael

Monday - light drizzle to start the day.    We met the kids down in lobby for breakfast and then they were off to Universal for the day and we left for Lake Wales.   

Blair and her Mickey Mouse waffles

 Arrived at the Latte Lounge in a very old, unique former arcade building downtown.    Our good coffee buddies, Joyce and Butch recommended this place along our way home and just 20 miles from their home.    It was neat + the turtle brownie we shared.

We last saw these friends and former RVers from Champaign, IL on May 13th.   My goodness, so much has happened since then with 2 hospital visits for Joyce (6 days in Champaign and 21 days in Barnes, St. Louis).    She had some very serious health issues over the summer but now, doing much better, back to line dancing, etc.    They love coffee shops like we do and this was a good one + they told us about a neat one on a farm outside Fort Mead, FL.    So, that will be on the list to check out in January when we're back together.   Good bye hugs and on our way to CT with the rain.   

Us with Joyce and Butch at the Latte Lounge in Lake Wales

 Started out a light drizzle but at times, heavier and shortly after we arrived at CT, the heavens really let loose with a big downpour!    Next 4 days are to be sunny and low 80s.

We have several doctor appointments the next 2 days.

  

Saturday - October 17

 Dreary day with occasional rain.    We went to Starbucks for a latte and then Publix for some much-needed groceries for Flo's fridge and cupboards.   

Home to put our stuff away and Mark got Big Red cleaned out!    We are on a roll.   She shed is in good shape, too.

I had a nice chat with Aunt Marian (almost 98) - she is doing well and anxiously awaiting her 4th great grandchild (all girls).

Watched football in the afternoon and then went to 4:00 Mass with Father Steve at St. Francis.    Boy, it poured while we were in church and then continued thru the evening.    I love the sound of the rain coming down on Flo.

Michael and family had a great day at Disney.....

Ready to take on the day...

Brooke, Brady, Blair, Davis

And away they go!

Tomorrow we're taking a little road trip with1st stop in Lakeland for lunch with Ron and Vicki.   Then to Orlando to see Michael and family.

I will update the blog when we return on Monday.

It's 11:20 and just finished watching Notre Dame lose to BYU in a heartbreaker.....28-24.

Friday - October 16

 We are starting out the '26-'27 Fort Myers socializing with a bang today!    Met Jim and Lydia at McGregor Cafe for breakfast and then continued our chatter downtown at Peter's Coffee Cafe.    So good to be with them and catch up at 2 favorite places!

Mark, Lydia, Pat, Jim at Peter's

Said our good byes and Mark was off for a haircut with Jose and I had a mani-pedi with Alisa.   We enjoy catching up with Jose (Mark) and Alisa (me) after being gone 6 months.    Mark was done before me so got Ruby washed, picked me up, stopped at Williams Hardware and on home.   The car thermometer showed 96!    But much better temps are coming starting tomorrow!

Radar showed some nasty storms heading our way from the south, but only got a few sprinkles!    It mainly went inland.    Never fails when we get the car washed, it rains!   

Liam called on his way to Mizzou (U of MO).  He and Connor are meeting friends from high school who go to Mizzou.

Enjoy your weekend!

Thursday - October 15

 We were busy little beavers today emptying out the she shed (patio furniture, big umbrella, flag, grill, ladders, etc.)    Also got Betty Bunny and Tillie and Trixie, the turtles all situated + Izzy, baby turtle that Maeve painted for us.    Unfortunately, Freddie, the frog passed away last spring when a large palm frond fell on him while the landscapers were trimming!   😢   And  I was a very happy camper to be back with my washer/dryer and did 3 loads!

Got Ruby emptied out, too, and slowly getting our stuff where it needs to be.

Such a nice sight to wake up to the palm trees but although it was very pretty out, the heat and humidity were something else!    But, so nice to stay put all day and no getting in the car and "back on the road!"

Connor called this afternoon to catch up -  he's doing well, keeping busy and happy at U of I

The rain started before 6 and continued - heavier at first and then nice 'n gentle.

Usually there are many walkers and bikers out and about here at CT, but since we've been here, only saw one lady riding her bike today!    Tooo hot

Wednesday - October 14

 We are HOME!!!     Arrived at CT around noon and it is HOT!    But so happy to be here and done traveling for a bit.    Patience was in order today traveling from Ocala with I-75 busy as ever but especially around Sarasota where traffic went from 4 lanes to 2.    I stopped in Venice to get Ruby some gas and an iced coffee at Black 'n Gold Coffee Roasters.   We got Flo settled on our lot and then left for Cracker Barrel and a nice lunch before tackling our stuff.

First in order was getting Joe and Joan's mini cricket out of the she shed.    Got that and our bikes on back patio covered.    Lots more to do, but just so hot decided to work inside and just cool down.

Till tomorrow...

Tuesday - October 13

 Started the day getting diesel for Big Red ($5.29) and then on our way by 8:05.

Highway 301 is great thru Georgia and then Florida - Georgia had very little traffic.  We passed many pine tree farms with all sizes (maybe some were Christmas trees) but Georgia is big lumber country so these very tall trees will be cut down (passed a few big loads of logs) and eventually at lumber yards for building supplies.   Also passed some pecan and peach trees.  We stopped in Folkston, GA for coffee at Elliano's (neat place but only drive-thru or walk-up).   At 10:42 we were crossing into Florida!!!

We arrived at the Ocala Sun RV Resort in rural Ocala (big-time horse country) around 1:15.  We hit 90 degrees today.

We drove to Swampy's for dinner along the Rainbow River to meet friends Ross and Carly from Hernando.    We met them in Okeechobee several years ago in their RV at Water's Edge.    What fun to be together - last time was this past April 16th.    We loved the ambiance of "Old Florida" at Swampy's, watching the folks kayaking or on their boats.   Food was excellent and so much to catch up on.    

Pat and Carly

Mark, Ross, Carly, Pat

Monday - October 12

 We left LJ at 7:30 and stopped in Marion for gas for Ruby ($3.39)!    Then to pick up Flo and Big Red in Candler at Buddy and JoAnn's property.    By 9:10, we were on our way.

Stopped in Clinton, SC at Waffle House for late breakfast/early lunch and back on the road.  Arrived at the Parkwood RV Park in Statesboro, GA at 3:15.    Mark remembered we had been here before -------------(2016 and 2018) WOW....his memory blows me away as this place did not ring any bells for me!    Ha...

Looking forward to seeing friends Ross and Carly tomorrow for dinner.    And after settling back into CT, we'll be off to Orlando Sunday/Monday to hang out with Michael, Brooke, Brady and Blair.    We'll also have lunch Sunday with my brother Ron and Vicki in Lakeland.   The Nomads are on the go.....

Mark picked up a pizza from "Blaze" a few miles away, I made a salad and that was supper!   Then a walk around the park (not very big) - felt good to stretch the legs.   

We remember Mark's sister Sue who died so unexpectedly 6 years ago today.   

Sunday - October 11

 Lots of heavy rain overnight - 4.8" at this point.    Michael picked Mark and I up for 11:00 Mass at St. Margaret Mary in Swannanoa.    Today is the 90th anniversary of the dedication of St. Margaret Mary (October 11, 1936).    It[s a small church and they are in the midst of a huge capital fund raising campaign to put on a $4.5m addition.   

After mass we went to Veranda for lunch - favorite for all of us and very good as always!   On home.    We took a nap, packed, did some laundry, ran the dishwasher, etc.

We made the rounds to say good bye to Erin, Ryan and Graham; then Michael, Brooke and Blair and finally dinner at Annette's.   

Ryan, Graham, Grandma, Grandpa

(Erin wasn't feeling well....she was photographer) 

So neat that we got to see all of our grand kiddos the past 2 weeks; but no Philip.    Hopefully he'll be home for Thanksgiving?

Annette made her wonderful enchiladas for supper.    We played more cards with Mark and Annette tying and me, FINALLY winning a game.    Maeve entertained us with a little fiddle concert and then said our good byes!

Maeve playing her fiddle

Annette, Luke, Maeve

Luke, Grandma, Maeve, Grandpa

Tomorrow we are "back on the road again"!!!  FIVE weeks and we'll be back!

Saturday - October 10

 Rainy weekend here in NC all coming from Isaias.    

I went over to Annette's to visit and watch her make little cream cheese/jalapeno yummies for football party we're going to this afternoon.

Yesterday Maeve had a field trip with her 5th grade classmates to the Waldensian Heritage Museum in Valdese, NC.    Annette was a chaperone.   So I learned all about the Waldensians!

Played "Sounds Fishy" and "Pass the Pigs" games with Luke, Maeve and Annette.   

Delicious appetizer

Maeve and the pigs

It was such a yucky WET day that Mark and I decided not to go to the football party....good to stay home with a nice fire and watch football (Notre Dame and/or IL), read, whatever!    We always enjoy seeing our kids friends though.

I watched Iowa for a little past 1/2 time last night beat Washington and then fell asleep.    The game didn't start till 9 PM eastern time.

Mark and I went to Michael's to watch some football with he and Davis after they left the party.   

Played euchre with Annette - she won 2 games and Mark won 1.    The rain continues!

Better picture from Blair's 8th grade recognition at the football game October 7th.

Brooke, Blair, Michael

Friday - October 9

1st dreary, cloudy day in a long while (75).    Mark worked on more projects (he likes to keep busy).

We left for Black Mountain at 10:30 - ran some errands and drove around Givens Highland Farms where we plan to live someday!    Love this town!

And then we met Patty and Paul at The Pure and Proper (old Pure service station).    We ate here June 2, 2024 with the family for Sunday brunch.    Good food but best part was our 2+ hour visit with these long-time friends who live in Asheville.    Patty and Mark worked together many years ago.    Sooo much to catch up on, including our families, State Farm, all they went thru from Helene (2024 hurricane that hit NC so hard and over $100,000 damage to their home/property), continuous care facilities, etc.,  etc.   Time flies sooo quickly - because of health issues, Helene, etc. we had not been together since October 22, 2018 when they came to Lake James.

Patty, Pat, Mark, Paul

Tonight we met Michael, Brooke, Blair and Davis at Slices on the Marion Lake Golf Club for dinner.    So nice that Davis could join us - driving from Winston-Salem after work.    Good dinner and fun catching up!

Davis, Michael, Mark, Blair, Pat, Brooke

After dinner, we went back to Michael's for more visiting and then on home....

Have a great weekend!

Thursday - October 8

 Another glorious day...we went into town - ran some errands, coffee/breakfast at WaterBean and then a few more errands and on home.

Mark worked on some fix-it jobs here at "our" carriage house.   LOVE staying here!    I walked in the afternoon - we were in the 80s today, but cooler, rainy weather is coming our way.   We both took naps in the afternoon, too!

Luke, Blair and Maeve are on the go - busy little people with after-school activities.   So different than when our kids were this age.    

Mark met Michael and Ryan and other guys from the lake at Fonta Flora for a beer.    Later Mark and I went to Erin and Ryan's for dinner - great visit and meal....and enjoyed our grand dog, Graham...love these one-on-one visits with our kids.  

Hi Graham.....nice to meet you!

Mama and Ryan

View from Ryan and Erin's home - cotton candy sky over the mountains

and then ...

Michael sent this from his home over Lake James just a few miles away

Been keeping an eye on Isaias.   Our friends near Destin are evacuating tomorrow.    Hope and pray for those in the affected areas are safe.

 

Wednesday - October 7

Foggy start to the day....we had a hot water issue (as in no hot water).    Ryan came over and tah dah....all good now!    And by 10, the fog had cleared, sun came out and it was a beautiful day!!!

Annette and I went for a 2-mile walk - some pretty fall color coming out!

After lunch we 3 played more euchre with Annette winning 2 games and Mark, 1.   I'm still winless😔

Maeve did some mighty fine decorating for Halloween....

We visited with Brooke and then went to the 8th grade football game at Liberty Middle School where Blair cheers.   It was a special recognition for the football players and cheerleaders along with their parents before the game.    Bob and Judy were at the game, too, so fun to catch up.

Unfortunately, Liberty lost 28-6.    We all went to Habaneros for Mexican.

Brooke, Blair, Michael

Blair's at the top of her game!!!

 

Tuesday - October 6

 Hello from Lake James....so happy to be here after another long day of travel.    425 miles thru KY, TN and NC.    Really strange that the further south we went the more fall color....loved it and can only imagine the next few weeks thru the hills of TN and how beautiful it will be.

Our neighbors across the street at CT, Buddy and JoAnn live in Candler (suburb of  Asheville) offered their property for keeping Flo and Big Red the next 6 days.    Buddy met us there, got Flo all settled along with electric hook-up and then off to Ingles to meet JoAnn.    Soooo good to see them - 1st time since late February.    We sat and yakked away while Mark and Buddy enjoyed some dark chocolate Dove bars, I had a Starbucks iced coffee and JoAnn had a sandwich and drink.    So good to catch up with them.    Then we said our good byes and we'll see them late December in CT and we were off in Ruby to Lake James.

JoAnn and Buddy

Annette and the kids were home when we arrived - the kiddos were a big help getting our stuff carried upstairs to the carriage house.    Annette made a delicious meal of sweet 'n sour meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy and green beans w/bacon -  one of my very favorite meals!    Also got in some good games of euchre (3-handed) which Annette won both games.

Mark went on home and Annette and I enjoyed our wine and some good catching up!   

Looking forward to seeing our NC kiddos the next few days, but bummer we won't see Philip who is still in training with FedEx in Memphis.

One of the neat pillows at Whispering Hill RV Park last night in Georgetown, KY

SO TRUE !!!

Monday - October 5

 Whew what a day!!!    Picture perfect weather (don't think we've seen a cloud in the sky for past several days)!    However, it was stressful dealing with heavy traffic, crazy drivers and lots of construction (Indiana) -  360 miles

But we are at Whispering Hills RV Park in Georgetown, KY and so happy to be here!    We stopped 3x along the way and got gas in KY for $3.79 (Ruby) and diesel for Big Red at $5.40.

Tonight is the 12th time we've stayed here..  Memories from many years ago with Daisy and having Brady with us and swimming in the nice pool  (2015) which is now closed for the season!    

When Mark checked in at the office, the lady told us to be sure and check out the new bar?    So, in April, a new building went up with a very nice bar (The Happy Campers Bar) and all kinds of tempting drinks (mocktails and the real thing) and then just 3 weeks ago, they opened an outdoor patio on the water with nice wicker furniture, tables and chairs, mums, fall pillows, etc.   Very nice - we sat out there in the sunshine and enjoyed our drinks.   

Our neighbors next door are from Rhode Island - did not see that state at KK.

We had a baked spaghetti casserole from Braker's Market and I made a salad for supper.   Delish!

Nighty night = back on eastern time and we nomads are tired! 

Happy Birthday to Brooke's dad, Bob who is 87 today1

Sunday - October 4

 Happy 1st Anniversary to our grandson Drew and his bride, Tessa...

October 4, 2025

October 4, 2026

Love this central IL weather and today was another winner!    We left KK at 8:00 and drove into Goodfield - had planned to get some coffees at Revive, but forgot they are not open on Sundays.    Off to Busy Corner to get the kids favorite piece of pie.   While I was picking up the pie, Mark checked on a coffee shop in Morton.    A few days ago we were at Four30 Scone which we really enjoyed but today he decided on a closer one off the interstate - "LnB" (Leaves 'n Beans).     I went in to get the coffees and a maple vanilla chai donut and he went to get Ruby washed.    We shared the donut and sat for a few minutes and then took our coffees and back on the road.

We were going to Davenport to meet Liam, Drew and Tessa who were coming from Cedar Rapids (D and T) and Iowa City (Liam).    We first went to Costco for gas for Ruby - $3.88 - gotta love Iowa prices!   The kids rode together and we met at the Machine Shed.    Enjoyed their good comfort food and lots of chatter - a very fun visit and can't wait to all be together in NC for Thanksgiving!

Said our good byes and hugs after which a very nice man who was driving the John Deere tractor giving hayrack rides took our picture!    So much neat fall decor with a straw maze for the little kiddies.

Grandma, Tessa, Drew, Liam, Grandpa

Back to KK (2-hour drive) and changed clothes and set to work getting stuff on Flo stowed away, the tanks empty and hoses, etc. put away, Flo and Big Red hooked up, etc., etc.

Micci (owner of KK) stopped by with my new water bottle which she made - has the machine to do various art decor, all colors, etc.   I love it!

 

We went for a walk around KK one final time....no new states but in the past 3 weeks, 38 states have been represented!     Amazing for little ole KK.

Connor was visited today by Gibson and Frankie on U of I campus.

Anne celebrated 29 years yesterday with State Farm!

9 on zoom tonight - Doris went into detail about her daughter-in-law, Michelle's surgery, taking care of the grandkids, etc.   It's going to be a long process/recovery and prayers are much appreciated.