tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304134779461795502024-02-19T05:02:00.281-05:00Traveling with Larry and LindaLindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.comBlogger377125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-80379938728160918382014-02-02T02:07:00.001-05:002014-02-02T02:07:19.875-05:00Pepper Interviews Blaze<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3q3WZR58sXRKoURhrE-k4NiR05SgX-lo7-zNHEl7lFHyfNP7nmE59W_OBvJ5D4Hk-W72WKMuQm2SEmwhzfTEekn-OkBGUbpJxvoRXNRg8A46BDnkzPbqVOCvITgaSiuY3rt7dGPYMuQ/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhadrY6JZ5CtuZIVm6g079VDfobgPSyWVQ2sITxi1dKC9jKCuYrD7WAl2Q_0_Oop3L5IKZD897B1wKPwYSUo9vwHKi-N3MIGyp0qUCVrxtfbZxIB7rlQE0dm_KI_thKqLp2M8VZVAJslQ/?imgmax=800" width="98" height="143" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-t5B_Dv7nADU/Uu3uo-CX0iI/AAAAAAAADas/kvm7-MOAk9Y/s1600-h/image%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W1R2YhtYSws/Uu3upZifehI/AAAAAAAADa0/MZ4upOC8G98/image_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="90" height="145" /></a></p> <p>This week I get to introduce a brand new puppy to Retama. His name is Blaze Kaye and he lives on Lark.</p> <p><b>Pepper:</b> Tell me Blaze, how did you meet your folks?</p> <p><b>Blaze</b>: I saw this lady and thought she would make a good mom. So I went up to her and sat right down on her foot and looked at her with my sad eyes.</p> <p><b>Pepper:</b> And did it work the way you wanted.</p> <p><b>Blaze:</b> Sure did, she picked me up and I gave her some kisses and she was a goner. She called my new dad and told him to come where we were at; she had a surprise for him.</p> <p><b>Pepper:</b> So what kind of puppy are you and how old?</p> <p><b>Blaze</b>: My new Doctor said I’m an Austrian Shepard and I’m about 12 weeks old.</p> <p><b>Pepper:</b> What’s the best part of being in your new home?</p> <p><b>Blaze:</b> Well I have two sisters now that are called kitty cats. And I get lots of hugs from my folks</p> <p><b>Pepper:</b> What do you think of Retama.</p> <p><b>Blaze:</b> So far I really like it. I’ve met some other puppies and they are nice but I’m a little scared of them. And I really like going to the puppy park. There hasn’t been any other puppy there when I went but there are some awesome toys to play on. Mom said I’m really smart because I know how to climb up the ladders.</p> <p>Blaze is a cute little puppy that I think will become a great addition to our Retama Puppy Family. Once he is settled in we can all work together to teach him how to start his butt sniff directory and how to leave and send pee-mail. </p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-53921284950805718072014-01-18T08:12:00.001-05:002014-01-18T08:12:09.210-05:00Retama Connection’s Articles<p>OK, between being Chairperson of the Activities Committee, Coordinator for the 6th Retama’s Walk through the Village and my Weekly Newsletter I just don’t have time for the blog. So instead of closing it down I thought I’d start posting articles from the Newsletter. Hope you enjoy.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOwJ0e8nTq2EgaLr9Z0VfQAhMWRDok9vlfD20_Ko7uxLkwLnyVeeXf-5gjleMngfIIB5ki7WD-W8ZaWiXIT1Kk_qpgQdEFTYsDdhnjSVve3jB4D45ahTbf2vwEVER8hWU98F_Q8yX_A/s1600-h/image%25255B12%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7e-wd8lXWxs/Utp9mzlUlWI/AAAAAAAADZo/uNp6ngpQdbA/image_thumb%25255B8%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="95" align="left" height="108" /></a> Pet Spot</p> <p align="center">By Pepperpuppy Moore</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AAExxREC45k/Utp9otlO0uI/AAAAAAAADZw/ScygqKyvgao/s1600-h/image%25255B11%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DamTFoES-mA/Utp9pDeum6I/AAAAAAAADZ4/nUYLzuNSFY4/image_thumb%25255B7%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="183" height="135" /></a></p> <p><font size="1">I’d like to introduce you to “Little Jack” who just arrived in Retama this week from Wisconsin.</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> So L. Jack what do you think of Retama so far. And will you get your nose out of my butt</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L.Jack:</font> Oh Wow, I’ve seen so many people that look just like me</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> Those are called puppies, not people</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L.Jack:</font> Huh? </font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ffc000"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper</font>:</font> Puppies like us walk on four legs and people walk on two</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack:</font> Huh? Why would they only walk on two legs and just let those other two hang from their sides</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> Those are called arms. And will you PLEASE get your nose out of there</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack:</font> But I was just looking for your boy part</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> Ah, I don’t have a boy part, I have a girl part</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack</font> : A What!! Let me look again</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> Whoa there Little Jack </font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack:</font> Yup, your right, can’t find no boy parts, want ‘a see mine</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> No, that’s ok, - ---- and will you quit jumping on top of my head</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack:</font> But if you don’t have a boy part how do you go</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> never mind, let’s get back to my questions. How old are you</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack:</font> my mom said I’m five months old</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">Pepper:</font> And what do you like to do the most</font></p> <p><font size="1"><font color="#ff0000">L. Jack:</font> Well I use to like to play with my toys, but now I think I’ll look for girl parts</font></p> <h6><font color="#ff0000"><font style="font-weight: normal">L. Jack:</font></font><font style="font-weight: normal"> I wonder if girl parts squeak like my toys, can I look at yours again</font></h6> <h6><font color="#ff0000"><font style="font-weight: normal">Pepper:</font></font><font style="font-weight: normal"> Absolutely not!!! And this interview is over until you are at least 12 months old</font></h6> <h6><font color="#ff0000"><font style="font-weight: normal">L. Jack:</font></font><font style="font-weight: normal"> Hey Patches come here a minute</font></h6> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-21266906250918082812013-12-31T08:46:00.001-05:002013-12-31T08:46:55.558-05:00Ugh- Weather<p> What makes a Texan (yes that’s what we are now) unhappy? Rainy/Cold Days!  What makes a Texan upset?  Several rainy/cold days in a row!  What really ticks off a Texan? Two weeks of rainy, cold days!!</p> <p>OK, I know there are a lot of people who have it worse. My family finally got power back after 8 days. But they are up north where these rotten things happen. We are in Texas, we’re suppose to have sunny skies, warm temperature's, light breezes. Afternoons spent riding bikes, strolling down our streets to talk with friends, sitting under the awning with a cold beverage. NOT – having sweat shirts a daily dress code,  the fireplace going constantly,  having rain hung by the door. No this is just not right. And let me ask you this, have you ever been basically trapped in 400 sq. ft.. for two solid weeks. Trust me it’s not pleasant.</p> <p align="center">We did have a nice Christmas Dinner with friends. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimy4Ueg0wUnvilrZehKpzM7sqqjm7lqAxRqjmboZBXhuTAlIFtJhTCCyDGbtGiTCqeeocKg1OEPsDcYepUXptBtc2w_L2d3flsUBbwt-ibzKUCb79Tw6R0-cq3ZTmcb0yRw-r-ihz7jQ/s1600-h/004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="004" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UCidA_te4DY/UsLKwt1YvcI/AAAAAAAADYY/8CZCriXP4nM/004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="left">This is at David and Linda’s home. David promised to send me a picture of all of us but so far I haven’t received it.  hint- hint David</p> <p align="left">Saturday morning we went out for breakfast at Rene’s again. Seems to have turned into a regular weekly thing. </p> <p align="left">Today we are going out for a early dinner with 12 others then we’ll be home early before all the idiots get on the road. Our biggest worry on New Years Eve is listening to the guns being shot up in the air. Not a warm fuzzy feeling wondering where they will come down at. This rain might have one good side effect and that’s keeping these people inside. </p> <p align="left">So that’s about it. I have one more picture to share. This is of Pepper and it pretty much sums up what we all feel about this rain. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHCLmhYmWiJrpPa2j_5ZBWhPH0qFGRX9-CqMFyWmFzPp5BRKTkJ5Y793fJRT124Rh7RSDM-3V1TWiD1dZVPP2qG2JKVMm4gThIcAeGKdcIJgVj8Q1VbGU8RSbocqmpvPq_cpJuF4IuA/s1600-h/008%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="008" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="008" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BsjPN9UB9Pg/UsLKzRdD4AI/AAAAAAAADYo/KrQf9nY3SfI/008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="162" /></a></p> <p>Everyone out there have a Happy New Year and please be safe</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-23788927924197562062013-12-24T08:10:00.001-05:002013-12-24T08:10:48.513-05:00Yes we’re still around<p>I just realized when I went to do this blog that I never did one last weekend and I’m late on this one.  It just seems like I’ve got so many things in the fire that I don’t have time to do it all. </p> <p>Just a quick run through of what’s been going on. Of course I have the Newsletter every week and that takes a good part of my time even with having some  people helping with some articles.  </p> <p>I’m also the chairperson of the activities committee and wow that has turned into a full time job. I told the committee members several weeks ago I was stepping down at the end of this season so they will need to find a replacement. </p> <p>I’ve also been asked to coordinate the Walk Through the Village Event that we did last year. I wasn’t going to do it again, but felt bad that these are new people who have never done this before. Of course that’s coming up on the 27th of January.</p> <p>So don’t be surprised if you don’t see my blog every week. There’s not much to write about other then activity stuff and I seem to be on the computer all the time doing that.</p> <p>You probably heard about the ice storm that hit parts of Michigan last weekend. Our little home didn’t have damage from down limbs and we never lost power. But other family members didn’t fair so well. Some just got power back, some are still waiting and they say it could be Saturday before all are back on. </p> <p align="center">Thought I’d share some pictures:</p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="" src="https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/996785_10152141413390329_1700088127_n.jpg" width="155" height="105" /></p> <p> Above niece Tina took this, not sure where and the bottom one is the other niece Amy’s place.</p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="" src="https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1506976_10202768905042382_791955804_n.jpg" width="159" height="120" /></p> <p align="center">Our little water tower in town<img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="" src="https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1525180_10202986854856923_1991145390_n.jpg" width="178" height="235" /></p> <p>And here is our grandson Darrius. What is a 9 year old to do when there is no power for his TV,Play Station 3 and too icy to go outside and shoot baskets.</p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="" src="https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1520701_10201183889430648_1385930362_n.jpg" width="179" height="179" /></p> <p>Since it’s Christmas Eve I will send my Merry Christmas Wishes out to you now. Hope all of you have a wonderful day with your family or friends. </p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-78115371482631307012013-12-07T17:00:00.001-05:002013-12-07T17:00:32.316-05:00New fridge, Craft Show that severs Margaritas<p>This week the new fridge was delivered. Our other one quit and since the trailer will never be moved we decided to go with a residential household one. Larry needs to do some trim around it but it sure if nice having ice/water again. Of course every time Larry needs a tool it’s up north.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lyRtm3ZyRNw/UqOab1CqLmI/AAAAAAAADXo/3eo1chd64Kk/s1600-h/001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ud435iIWBCg/UqOadaQLvuI/AAAAAAAADXw/MIapDwkKEKU/001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>We were suppose to have 65 people coming to the patio this morning for Egg in a Bag.  The weather channel was using words like “wind chill” which in the last seven years we’ve been coming here I’ve never heard them use. With that said we decided this probably wasn’t the best day to have a breakfast on the patio and postponed it to next Saturday. Hopefully much better weather. As it is, it’s just 43 degrees right now.</p> <p>I went to a craft sale with a couple of other woman at the McAllen Art Center. Most of it was jewelry and clothing, not too many crafts like I see up north.  I won’t mention names but two of the woman I went with today had a little more fun than the rest of us. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MllBxmaBG_9lvReZPKrOe3N2PuSHucMxCAFeQCmaprmXNbWBAnFx47iT34OhKd7-BvZ4Sg9DiYkyBNprjZFfsI_hyQfEh9tPDsDrEXzr4NfQus3Cy8tZKZEbz6uyxA2O2Z-0Dt6z0w/s1600-h/20131207_121952%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20131207_121952" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20131207_121952" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9dRBklPvM34/UqOafct-viI/AAAAAAAADYA/1r2cL9M_sTA/20131207_121952_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Some ladies just should never be allowed to leave the park.</p> <p>You know your in a Texas Craft Sale when you go to the concession stand and you have a choice of coffee, pop, beer wine or margarita. Now that’s my kind of craft show. (and no the ladies above only had coffee)</p> <p>We took another couple down to Mexico on Monday who have never been there before and were a little uneasy about going by themselves. It’s always fun taking new ones there and just watching their faces. They had a nice time, I got what I needed, we had a good lunch and back home by 2ish. </p> <p>So that’s about it for the week. The weather is suppose to be cold for much of the week so I’ll be staying inside unless I “have” to go out. </p> <p>Till next time…………………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-60109884045637929292013-12-01T20:57:00.001-05:002013-12-01T20:57:41.843-05:00Thanksgiving in San Antonio<p>We did something different this year for Thanksgiving. We meant my sister, niece & nephew in San Antonio and spend the holiday on the River Walk. What a wonderful time we had. </p> <p>Nadene came in from Michigan and her flight got in about 11:30, she waited for Marcey and Phil (who came in from Albq.) as they arrived at 12:30. We drove up and somehow we worked it that we all ended up at the hotel within a half hour. </p> <p>After checking in we took our first of many walks along the River Walk. That night we had reservations at a very nice restaurant with the intention of having a Turkey Dinner. But then the waiter said they were offering Cajon Prime Rib and we decided we could fix Turkey ourselves. </p> <p>Friday was sight seeing, eating, more sight seeing, more eating and finally the Christmas Parade on the River. And of course more eating after the parade.</p> <p>Saturday we took the boat ride in the morning then they had to leave for the airport and we headed south again. </p> <p>Hopefully next week I’ll have pictures to share with you.</p> <p>Last week seemed to fly by with getting things ready to go there, activity meetings and doing the weekly newsletter. I told the committee that after this season I would be resigning, I just have taken on more then I wanted to. The newsletter does take up a lot of time and it’s time to let someone else be on this committee. </p> <p>That’s it for this week. Hope all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.</p> <p>Till next time…………………………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-3110989796196664972013-11-22T20:42:00.001-05:002013-11-22T20:42:23.954-05:00New Purchases and a vacation<p>They say everything is bigger in Texas.  Can you see the Walking Stick that came to visit.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C9HUIo4D1so/UpAH8VhpqTI/AAAAAAAADW8/2QP3t4PR5Fk/s1600-h/00111.jpg"><img title="001" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iSJZQ7We664/UpAH9Ro3HxI/AAAAAAAADXE/MD6NKvLvqCM/0011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="142" /></a></p> <p>The week has been full of meetings, activities, and the newsletter. There’s been times I wasn’t sure which thing I was working on. Good thing I have Kathy to proof read the newsletter or there might be activity minutes in it. </p> <p>We’ve had to extend our paper to three pages as I kept adding things and just couldn’t fit everything on two. Again, I forgot to ask Kathy if I can attach it to this blog. </p> <p>The weather was forecast to have a horrible drop in temperature and today we had it (Friday). By 3pm we were at 89 degrees, by 3:20 we were at 60 and kept going down. They say tonight it will be down to 41 and our high all weekend is 49. </p> <p>I’ve wanted to get one of those electric fireplaces for the trailer. The furnace in the living area is loud and you are either hot or cold. So today when we were out we came across one that I liked. Larry’s going to mount this under the TV but for now it’s on the stand. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_3vB9fwJamU/UpAH-Xv7MSI/AAAAAAAADXM/Hbp0Au10Hcg/s1600-h/013%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="013" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sYJXucTghVY/UpAH_VEK70I/AAAAAAAADXU/1ZvRqYt2YlM/013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="127" /></a></p> <p>Another thing we had to do this week was order a refrigerator. The one in the trailer has quit then started again several times. Luckily I have another one out in the shed when this happens but when we were in Lowes they had a sale on counter mount ones. I mentioned I never liked the furnace so Larry is taking that out so the fridge will sit on the floor.  </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" src="http://www.frigidaire.com/Files/ProductImages/LISTIMAGES/FFHS2313LS_1_qv.png" width="151" height="154" /></p> <p>One of the things I miss the most if the water and ice so glad we’ll have that again. Larry will have to do some carpentry stuff with having to take the furnace out, that currently sits under the fridge. If he didn’t I would need a footstool to reach the top shelf.</p> <p>I’m so excited. This Thursday morning while everyone else might be fixing a bird we will be driving to San Antonio. My sister Nadene is flying in from Michigan and my niece/nephew Marcey/Phil (Nadenes kids) are flying in from Albq. We are going to spend Thanksgiving weekend on the River Walk. Marcey found us a place to have a turkey dinner that night with all the fixings. Then Friday night is the official Christmas Parade on the River and I was able to get us some front row seats. Here’s a picture I found to give you an idea but next week I should have my own pictures.<img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="" src="http://www.topproducerwebsite.com/users/12749/images/riverwalk%20christmas.jpg" width="164" height="124" /></p> <p>Speaking of next week the blog will be late, probably won’t post until the first of the week.</p> <p>Till next time………………………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-70965245236384445062013-11-16T12:13:00.001-05:002013-11-16T12:13:48.963-05:00Mexico Trip, New Family Member<p>Last Friday we made a trip down to Mexico. It’s so much nicer going before all the Winter Texans arrive. Which is usually the first of December. Larry found a pair of ostrich boots that we got for a whole lot less than the other pair he got in the U.S. </p> <p>Thought you like to see the crossing. We always park on the U.S. and walk over but many drive.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IXdwIphKbcs/UoensTZcFCI/AAAAAAAADVU/pzED2HNxkqY/s1600-h/20131108_09232503.jpg"><img title="20131108_092325(0)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20131108_092325(0)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zhQL0WcAneg/Uoens2v7DdI/AAAAAAAADVc/eUBBiXQXsyk/20131108_0923250_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>One of the things I got, well actually I bought two of them, are the rope type swings for a porch. I got the brightest colors they had and plan on putting them on the front porch. You’ll have to wait until spring to see pictures of them.</p> <p>Last Saturday several of us got together on the patio and did our annual scrubbing of the chairs and tables. There is a cleaning crew that comes weekly but we like to give everything a good scrubbing before the main events start. In two hours we cleaned every table and chair used in the clubhouse, all the patio’s chairs and tables, power washed the patio, swept out the storage room and everything put back. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JRL6V07jOUw/UoenthLiWmI/AAAAAAAADVk/c4eOWt1SejY/s1600-h/20131109_0916564.jpg"><img title="20131109_091656" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20131109_091656" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-s0XoYamkqGE/UoenuKdN4YI/AAAAAAAADVs/_thcEdmpwG0/20131109_091656_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="103" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_-V72eJinHw/UoenumjYzCI/AAAAAAAADV0/jPHmpwRE4_E/s1600-h/20131109_0917254.jpg"><img title="20131109_091725" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20131109_091725" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-v2RW4DmEFIA/UoenvNtBkgI/AAAAAAAADV8/JWUC1OLZEZw/20131109_091725_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="140" height="99" /></a></p> <p>The other day one of the residents here took a picture of the sunrise. That same day our niece posted one taken in Michigan.</p> <p align="center">Grand Ledge Michigan</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BFg-Ud874Z4/UoenvhfsnKI/AAAAAAAADWE/vAJpXiEonVM/s1600-h/Sunrise-over-Grand-Ledge2.jpg"><img title="Sunrise over Grand Ledge" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Sunrise over Grand Ledge" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4S5I9w-BiM0/UoenwLvaxPI/AAAAAAAADWI/p-3mRGihxMs/Sunrise-over-Grand-Ledge_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139" /></a></p> <p align="center">Mission Texas</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q3DC2SPWX9Q/UoenwpuCYmI/AAAAAAAADWU/pYKyXNh-PlA/s1600-h/Sunrise-over-Retama4.jpg"><img title="Sunrise over Retama" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Sunrise over Retama" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-g_wbhZDGvU4/Uoenxf2Oy-I/AAAAAAAADWY/re6m-fR_HiI/Sunrise-over-Retama_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="211" height="168" /></a></p> <p align="center"> Meet little Madison the newest member of our family                   Born 11-12-13</p> <p align="center">One proud Grandpa holding her</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-66rIZDoE_a0/UoenyL_0cEI/AAAAAAAADWk/09FFVbt_E10/s1600-h/IMG9503174.jpg"><img title="IMG950317" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG950317" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5faiCn0Ll6U/Uoeny4CLljI/AAAAAAAADWo/3QAganeEwvQ/IMG950317_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="240" /></a></p> <p>Still haven’t asked my computer lady Kathy if I can post a link for the newsletter. </p> <p>That’s it for this week. Heading over to have lunch with friends Marilynn and Gary (finally arrived) and Linda & David. </p> <p>Till next time…………………………………….</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-80114053930435393812013-11-08T11:40:00.000-05:002013-11-09T07:22:34.286-05:00A Baked Potato, Newsletter, Texas Residents<p>We finally got over to Excalibur Bar last weekend.It has the best Margarita’s and loaded bake potato’s around. We normally only go there early in the fall and late in the spring as they have entertainment every night which is loud plus your allowed to smoke there. Yes there are States that aren’t smoke free. Although I did see a sign that said “Smoking at the Bar only” which is less than 20 ft. from the farthest table. But at least they are trying. This is the “Small” order, have never been brave enough to try the “Large”. We both get two meals out of this. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QSSaMYCabn0/Un4o-zoQNVI/AAAAAAAADUc/qp-7J1FHm0U/s1600-h/20131101_1658453.jpg"><img title="20131101_165845" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20131101_165845" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-u65AA4gP6rk/Un4o_Tvp6EI/AAAAAAAADUk/tNo3J0L4xLs/20131101_165845_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>We got a sample of winter here Saturday night. OK, maybe it’s not the “real” winter but after having heat index’s in the upper 90’s for almost a week and lows around 80, getting up to 53 degrees felt like winter to us. </p> <p>Kathy and I got the first addition of the season’s newsletter Retama Connections out last Sunday. It’s just a short two pager of things happening around here. I’ve re-read it several times and just not happy with it, so I’ve come up with some new idea’s that I want to try. It just seemed a little boring. If I can figure out how to attach it to this blog I might start doing that so you can read it. Guess I need to ask my computer guru Kathy – she knows how to do everything. </p> <p>One of our residents here took this picture on Sunday morning. No these aren’t Texas Cowboys, it’s actually our Border Patrol Agents. They were out looking for some uninvited visitors early Sunday morning in our park.  But this is just a awesome picture that I wanted to share. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Us6hWGUEn7s/Un4pAFRVpqI/AAAAAAAADUs/nAXNN7rfMaE/s1600-h/Sunrise-in-Retama-with-Border-Patrol%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sunrise in Retama with Border Patrol" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Sunrise in Retama with Border Patrol" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TgTK_djoC-U/Un4pAk8pCaI/AAAAAAAADU0/l5u2oEO2724/Sunrise-in-Retama-with-Border-Patrol%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="154" /></a></p> <p>Here’s a picture that daughter Renee’ took in their back yard of the white deer. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X-3JvNVSNis/Un4pBgeSoiI/AAAAAAAADU8/-J1NM37Tf3s/s1600-h/Renees-visitor2.jpg"><img title="Renees visitor" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Renees visitor" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N2Rqfv6s3rY/Un4pCBSj8FI/AAAAAAAADVA/HCQVOUjJvqY/Renees-visitor_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>We’ll we are officially Texans now. Wednesday we went and got our drivers license and I think we’ve notified all the places we need to with our Texas address. </p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="left">So I took my sister Nadene’s advice when I told her I was thinking about not doing the blog and started writing things during during the week and not wait until the weekend. I’d sit down on and could never remember what we did that week. Now by doing this I may be making it too long. </p> <p align="left">That’s it for this week. Till next time………………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-87897125175056901522013-11-01T08:03:00.001-04:002013-11-01T08:03:08.144-04:00Becoming Texans, Uninvited Happy Hour Visitor<p>A busy week for us. One of the things we wanted to do this winter was become Texas residents. It gets confusing sometimes trying to remember which zip code we need when you have three of them. One of the weird things about this State is you have to go to two different locations to get your tags and driver’s license. And you have to do things in a certain order. So step one, had to get Texas Insurance for the vehicles. That one was simple stopped in at the agency we have the trailer insured at and they had us all taken care of. A little bit of a sticker shock going from one of the lowest cost State but we knew this was going to happen. Once that was done we decided to stop in at the County Tax Assessors Office to find out just what we need to take care of registration the vehicles. Since we have the truck in Michigan and Texas requires a vehicle inspection we have to send a request to Austin Texas for a waiver before we can register that vehicle. So the next day we gathered all the needed papers, filled out the forms and went back to the Assessor’s Office to take a # and have a seat. This is where we’ve heard stories of waiting for hours and the people behind the glass windows not being friendly. But we were in and out of there within an hour and the people there were very friendly and helpful. As of today our vehicles (or at least one of them) are Texas Residents. Now on to getting the driver’s licenses – but that will be next week’s blog. Hopefully that will run as smoothly. </p> <p>Another thing we needed to do is get our flu shots so we stopped into the County Health Dept that’s by us and got that taken care of for $15 each.</p> <p>My friend Kathy and I have been working on the Retama Connections Newsletter to get this up and running each week. It’s only two pages but I’m a little nervous on finding things to fill these pages up with. But the first one is almost ready and we’ll put it out on Sunday. </p> <p>The first official event here was last night with the Oktoberfest. The activities committee hosted this (did I mention I’m on this committee) and we had a great turn out. The weather has been pretty warm (90s) most of the week and they were calling for rain so we set the tables up inside the clubhouse where people could be in air conditioning. But just before people arrived the sun came out, the humidity went down and a nice breeze (and not the wind storm we’ve had for two days) came so the majority sat out on the patio. It was just a nice evening of seeing people who came in during the week and getting caught up on summer activities. </p> <p>OK, can’t have a blog with at least a couple of pictures. This one is what showed up at our happy hour one afternoon uninvited I might add. These are called Cane Toads and they can be deadly to dogs if they come in contact with the toxin that is released. Luckily we caught Pepper before she got close to it and Larry took care of the unwanted happy hour guest.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d9wYwUll6l0/UnOYbUMhgOI/AAAAAAAADT0/dwasKbYoIsI/s1600-h/20131021_145008%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20131021_145008" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20131021_145008" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-quYSass5Qjo/UnOYcGYL3AI/AAAAAAAADT8/fPOdu36aeFc/20131021_145008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>This is our favorite picture of the week. Grand-son Darrius went all out on his Halloween costume. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXXNXOD3C0rduhnQi9Ll6w_n4KwZftZUWE9J9HF4x7MsI3XPQeYTN7IKgVUHVpziL6IhhVhtT5r5nCruUZdSswJsvJ5IGGWMNrIl8KXdDUIqHFqEaBjdHMinPGw6-3auda2-VqbxFLA/s1600-h/clip_image004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="clip_image004" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="clip_image004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cJc5iFmS72k/UnOYdO9--TI/AAAAAAAADUM/xumjlF8xXDc/clip_image004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244" /></a></p> <p>So that’s this week. Till next time………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-16083327310974891062013-10-27T20:22:00.001-04:002013-10-27T20:22:36.681-04:00Returning to the Valley<p align="left">Thought I’d share the gas prices here in the Valley with you. Haven’t seen it this low in – who knows when. <img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="Photo: Walmart/Murphy on Nolana east of Ware, McAllen. Yee-haw!!" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/p480x480/1391972_10200806724599080_1916838560_n.jpg" width="182" height="103" /></p> <p>Actually since this was taken it’s dropped another three cents. I looked at the local prices back in Michigan and it’s still around $3.30.</p> <p>Our first week back in Texas has been full of sunny skies, warm temperatures and light breezes. And this is why we drive 1800 miles to get here. That and the local folks are one of the most friendly people we’ve ever come across. Signs and banners are every where all saying Welcome Back Winter Texans.</p> <p>The trailer was pretty dirty inside for all the construction going on this summer in our park. So I worked on cleaning and pulled all the clothes out to wash. As long as I was doing that I decided we needed to go thru items and get rid of things we haven’t worn. Now I have room for all the clothes I couldn’t bring myself to leave up north.</p> <p> The other day we were sitting outside with Dave/Linda and he said Pepper found a toad. As it turned out it is what they call a Cane Toad and is very deadly to small animals if they touch the toxin these toads release. Luckily we got Pepper away from it before it got to close.  Larry then gave it a dose of Shovel-i-ts</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WYqPx5Ua7V4/Um2uOzX_IeI/AAAAAAAADTM/ArDV5K8KPxQ/s1600-h/20131021_145008%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20131021_145008" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20131021_145008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lMQEp7WgEOA/Um2uQM5CLmI/AAAAAAAADTU/86Mat1orG3A/20131021_145008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>These things are huge and there seems to be a lot of them in our park. So no more letting Pepper be outside by herself.</p> <p>Have to share our Grand-son’s school picture. What a heart breaker he’s going to be.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_mFg2ZVq2r0/Um2uRTS3cEI/AAAAAAAADTc/cvGkERpI5tw/s1600-h/photo%252520%2525287%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="photo (7)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="photo (7)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pDhk5ImUi04/Um2uSd6cAJI/AAAAAAAADTk/OVIMff6cSbg/photo%252520%2525287%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Guess that’s it for this week. Till next time……………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-59898692010271119332013-10-20T20:26:00.001-04:002013-10-20T20:26:12.962-04:002013 Fall Trip back to Retama<p>A lot has happened since the last blog but I’m only going to give you the short version. </p> <p>Saturday: After blowing pipes out in the house we were on the road before 8am heading north and had a nice uneventful drive of seeing all the color. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gqKjLdvgMPs/UmR0nByK0cI/AAAAAAAADSk/4HLnnYWSSv4/s1600-h/20131012_102128%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20131012_102128" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20131012_102128" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-L7JDhq8FzA8/UmR0nxI1nXI/AAAAAAAADSs/4syiy1MntP8/20131012_102128_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Reached the Mackinaw Bridge with very little traffic and blue skies as we crossed. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zMdu09C3Gbc/UmR0oXZVSZI/AAAAAAAADS0/QPAFRcfDHgw/s1600-h/20131012_105741%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20131012_105741" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20131012_105741" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GhO093VzBx8/UmR0o_lyumI/AAAAAAAADS8/nC1h-BTcVsI/20131012_105741_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>I am not one for bridges, so I was pretty proud of myself that I kept my eyes opened and even looked out the side window. We got to our hotel in Escanaba that afternoon and ended up staying inside as it was raining and chilly. Was hoping to see a little of the sights around that area.</p> <p>Sunday: We took our time getting on the road as we had less than four hours to get to friends Marilynn & Gary’s house in Sturgeon Bay WI.</p> <p>That afternoon we got the chance to go over to their son’s homes for a quick visit before Jim & Pat (Retama friends) came over for dinner. </p> <p>Monday: Gary was our tour guide taking us north in Door County along the Bay through some neat Bed & Breakfast communities. Gary even got me to walk out a very high ledge to overlook the water which that in itself was quite an accomplishment seeing I’m as thrilled with heights as I am going over bridges. That night we went over to Pat/Jim’s for dinner and got to see their new place. </p> <p>Tuesday: Off to an early start with our first stop at the Winery just down from them. Of course you can’t go to a Winery without doing a taste test and so what if it’s 9:00 in the morning. Then over to the Coffee Shop across the street for a yummy latte before driving into Sturgeon Bay to the Museum. Their son Michael designed, carved, stuffed, and painted the Seasons of Life Display, what a unbelievable display of talent that this young man has. Here’s a little article and pictures about Mike <a href="http://map.co.door.wi.us/museum/Wildlife_Diorama.htm">http://map.co.door.wi.us/museum/Wildlife_Diorama.htm</a></p> <p>Wednesday: It was time to say our good-byes and start working our way south to Retama. Always sad to leave these good friends but we will see the again in less than a month.</p> <p>The rest of the week was pretty much the same. On the road, stop at motel, order delivery for dinner than start all over again. We took a different route then we have before going straight down I55, than across I12/I10 before turning off on 124 down to Galveston. I thought it would be fun to take the ferry across, but I wish I’d of thought this through a little more, like the chances of having rough water. Between crossing the Mississippi three times along with many other bridges and taking a ferry that felt like you were on a swing I have decided we will not be taking this route again.</p> <p>So that’s it for this week. Till next time………………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-1320589195400155542013-10-11T20:59:00.001-04:002013-10-11T20:59:23.637-04:00Time to head south<p>Well this is our last night in the house. Tomorrow after we finish getting the house ready for winter we’ll take off and head north. I made a reservation at a hotel in Escanaba which is a few hours from the Mackinaw Bridge. </p> <p>Sunday we will be getting into Sturgeon Bay to spend a few days at the Gary & Marilynn and see friends Jim & Pat. Can’t wait.</p> <p>The week has been full of having dinners with family and friends.  I told Larry tonight that once we get back to TX all three of us are going on a diet and getting back to walking. Especially Pepper, she’s really put the weight on this summer without having a dog park to run with her friends. </p> <p>Had a special day this week with grand-daughter Anissa. She and I always seem to have a good time on one of “our” days just walking around an antique store. Course when I have to explain what some of the things are “like how a manual typewriter works” I do feel a bit old. </p> <p>I’ve put clothes in and taken clothes out. Just couldn’t decide what to take or leave and finally Larry said the words I wanted to hear, just take what ever you want. AL righty!!  Those Vacuum Bags are the best thing a woman could ask for. </p> <p>Poor Pepper just doesn’t know what’s going on with all the activity. She sticks right by us and really hates it if we’re not in the same room. </p> <p>Have one picture to share. This is Darrius all ready for the big Halloween night at his house.  </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCNs7t1ZHjR5EFeikr0SDRScs6j2z719eFInMWL30Z3acpC94cIBpP7jWY90RZZITDHyuuUq3R6bmIqVCkJ8wJz_LDut3kaFdh7MYIX1lCciZiCWaYS0gjKoVZ1xrUY8u6DwrlzBoYw/s1600-h/Darrius%252520Holloween%2525202013%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Darrius Holloween 2013" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Darrius Holloween 2013" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uFIjxxFzfVI/Ulie6WI8bOI/AAAAAAAADSE/D6TPee7SCcM/Darrius%252520Holloween%2525202013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183" /></a></p> <p>That’s it for now. Not sure where we’ll be next weekend. Could be on the road or at our place in Texas. Till next time……………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-49904811892490440842013-10-05T20:43:00.001-04:002013-10-05T20:43:55.805-04:00Friends+Snow=Yuk, Fall has started<p>Not a lot to write about this weekend. The pass week has been mostly doing things to get ready to leave on the 12th. We finished putting lawn furniture away so my cute little porch looks so lonely and sad. But I already have ideas of things to do next spring to the front yard and around the porch. But that’s next spring, guess I need to concentrate on what I want to do for flowers down on the lot in Texas. Which I do have ideas for there too and I’m sure I’ll post pictures when it’s done. We also got the plants cut down and Larry lowered the deck on lawn mower and cut the yard. One more time towards the end of the week should do it.</p> <p>The trees have really started turning here and within a few weeks we should have full color. A storm went through last night and the rain brought lots of leaves down but there’s still tons left. Hopefully when we drive through the U.P. we’ll see some of that gorgeous color they always talk about  </p> <p>We went for a ride after dinner one night to see who was in the fields working. I guess even though we haven’t had the farm in many years you never really leave it. Lots of farmers out doing soy’s and I have a picture to share that our niece took of my brother. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AIQpEeAZ-4s/UlCyPY3ye0I/AAAAAAAADRE/ne_IB0p3eVU/s1600-h/Havest%252520time%252520on%252520the%252520farm%252520%252528Copy%252529%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Havest time on the farm (Copy)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Havest time on the farm (Copy)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YUttJ2rqnIw/UlCyP19QgXI/AAAAAAAADRM/dBMLHZfGTyE/Havest%252520time%252520on%252520the%252520farm%252520%252528Copy%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="130" /></a></p> <p>I’m sure you’ve all heard about the snow in South Dakota over the weekend. We have a couple of friends there so thought I’d share a picture of what they are enjoying (or not)</p> <p>This is Donna & Grant’s taken from their 5th wheel. They did a work camping job this summer near Rapid City S.D. They are going back there next summer again, wondering if they are having second thoughts.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bMM-IwQPuJs/UlCyQuswOrI/AAAAAAAADRU/l7L-FXFByZQ/s1600-h/photo%252520%2525284%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="photo (4)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="photo (4)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BpNO9IeU85U/UlCyRFTMTlI/AAAAAAAADRc/ARoRer3LB5k/photo%252520%2525284%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="164" /></a></p> <p>This is of Pat & Mikes place which is just south of Custer. You can see the rigs in the background which should be on their way too AZ to their winter home. Guess that won’t happen for a few days. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mciA9sxZ9Qg/UlCyRuVOORI/AAAAAAAADRk/oP3LI_hECjM/s1600-h/Custer%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Custer" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Custer" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ij0MR70umEU/UlCySH0RNBI/AAAAAAAADRs/6Ov26N7w494/Custer_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139" /></a></p> <p align="left">One of the things we did was go to a Estate Sale this week. This one was something else, to give you a visual think of the show “The Pickers”. If you’ve ever seen that you’ll know what I’m talking about. They say the house has been in the family since 1896 and I don’t think a piece of paper has ever been tossed. The guy said they had already taken two 30 yard dumpsters out of there. But we walked out empty handed (things were priced way to high) and came home to lots of soap and water. </p> <p>Today Nadene and I went to a craft sale where our SIL Diane and niece Candace had a table. I haven’t been to a craft sale here in many years as normally they don’t start until after we leave. Had a good time and we both found a few things we couldn’t live without. </p> <p>Guess that’s it for this week. Have a full week coming with getting things ready to head south.</p> <p>Till next time…………………………………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-5321099447515255032013-09-28T16:49:00.001-04:002013-09-28T16:49:19.192-04:00Fall color, Furniture, two weeks till departure<p>Fall is coming to our little part of the country. The weeknights have been cool with temperatures in the 40s & 50s with daytime highs in the low/mid 70s. But the best part has been sunny skies each day. The trees are turning those bright fall colors that we are lucky to see for a few weeks each year. It’s kind of like spring when the trees and bushes are starting to come alive, just gives you a awesome feeling. </p> <p>Can’t believe two weeks from today we will be heading south by way of north. Nope, that wasn’t a miss type; we’re going up through the UP then down to Sturgeon Bay WI to see friends Marilynn and Gary for a few days. Then we’ll head towards Texas. But with weather like we’ve had the last week and they are calling for the same for the next week it’s hard to get motivated on getting things packed. I’m trying to stay away from the grocery store and use up what we have here. </p> <p>Finn was returned to his parents and Peppy is a happy girl. Although I think she does miss Finn, that night she just kind of sat by me with sad eyes. I had to post this picture on Pepper’s Facebook page with the caption “I miss Finn”</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BXCAKWROJ5yeioaTEupZXJSo5pYyiFh2Yd3hsIVn5hQYZE49vffuTraTIcmMKgKHBt8Nf-0B7PtAdTHtyeVCbuhlFrdIfluwu6V0vdxhj4A00i_q-z9KcGAfC6Z3yciPU70OXvfctQ/s1600-h/20130921_184951%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20130921_184951" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20130921_184951" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7kAT8g3QYIk/UkdArp91vMI/AAAAAAAADPU/lUpUUi1LExQ/20130921_184951_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>n </p> <p>And yes Pepper does have her own Face Book page and has had for a couple of years. This is  where she and several other puppies join in and talk about life through the eyes of puppies. If your interested it’s a open group and look up Pepperpuppy Moore.</p> <p>We worked a little on the Estate Sale furniture we got last weekend. We were planning on leaving it until next spring but it was so nice out that Larry wanted to use the stripper out in the garage. While he did that I took some elbow grease, Old English and just cleaned up the sewing cabinet. </p> <p align="center">Here’s some Before & After</p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YJutf59SaOQ/UkdAsQSihwI/AAAAAAAADPc/c78QYCym5zc/s1600-h/Sewing%252520Cabinet%2525201%252520%252528Copy%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sewing Cabinet 1 (Copy)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Sewing Cabinet 1 (Copy)" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fUCOC-uATDY/UkdAs2IXPDI/AAAAAAAADPk/Hmj1nf25G_8/Sewing%252520Cabinet%2525201%252520%252528Copy%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="160" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-91au3qKvXHw/UkdAtsQTuJI/AAAAAAAADPs/Wtg7w-xABOI/s1600-h/Sewing%252520Cabinet%2525202%252520%252528Copy%252529%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sewing Cabinet 2 (Copy)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Sewing Cabinet 2 (Copy)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zPLnXoPGUJI/UkdAuOLPKFI/AAAAAAAADP0/F0HNchICZVQ/Sewing%252520Cabinet%2525202%252520%252528Copy%252529_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="123" height="169" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iOUhWfKtjEA/UkdAuwb7l0I/AAAAAAAADP8/3wflNYhrWFk/s1600-h/001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="001" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Z1kOTZs9SJs/UkdAvdj9ImI/AAAAAAAADQE/F7GepSFGXHI/001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="137" height="163" /></a></p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nyv59YUk_8o/UkdAwFFQcwI/AAAAAAAADQM/JaqA3FsfEZo/s1600-h/002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="002" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0GQ3IlyiH5g/UkdAwrBQIBI/AAAAAAAADQU/emK5ezKiilc/002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="174" height="138" /></a> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>This morning we went to gr-son’s football game. They lost (first one) by one touch down in the last few minutes but it was an exciting game. Hard to decide who’s more vocal – players or parents – naa it’s the parents. But it was nice listening to the parents and coaches telling these 8-9 yr olds what a great game it was and how well they played. So many times you hear about kids getting negative comments when they lose a game.</p> <p>On the way home we stopped at our weekly hang out “Menards”. Larry saw on line how Menards have buildings they bring out for xmas decorations. So he wanted to check it out and see if they would work for the future train set up. Besides we figured we’ve spent so much time and $’s there why not have their store part of the train set up. So here’s what we got. </p> <p align="center">The front</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tqXZvDRVxUU/UkdAxWy1SbI/AAAAAAAADQc/kHpc_7rQJfA/s1600-h/001%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xqJ6NxfRr4o/UkdAx-v1LLI/AAAAAAAADQk/yiSVzaZiINU/001_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="146" /></a></p> <p align="center"> The Garden Area<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NCnOlmZnskE/UkdAyuDJ06I/AAAAAAAADQs/18EPp0rx440/s1600-h/004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="004" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_oJmxFdGlac/UkdAzTBEzFI/AAAAAAAADQ0/yZR--Gp7628/004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="109" /></a></p> <p>It has moving parts, gates and people and even plays the Menards song. </p> <p>Well that’s it for this week. Time to call in an pizza order, pick it up and head out to the farm to have dinner with the siblings. </p> <p>Oh and speaking of pizza our gr-daughter Anissa starts her 2nd job at a Pizza Place today. I asked her why a pizza place, her response – grma I love pizza – daaa </p> <p>Till next time…………………………………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-91063527081167148672013-09-21T21:04:00.001-04:002013-09-21T21:04:40.997-04:00B-day Boy, Estate Sale treasures<p>Have lots of pictures to share this week so I’ll get right too it. Darrius (grandson) turned 9 years old this week so between school and football practice we slipped in a short birthday party. One of the biggest things he’s missed since his big brother went off to college was the PlayStation 3 that went to college too.</p> <p align="center">I think this picture says it all</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0mzlaY5fqGVhnUp3eOcgspdMX_0tQDAuf_pbiiBPQsZ0sQZT1kiqRfWDMKRnh__Zy2D82fqfF64lmqc9ZF6u5CmeiQjjHSBWp0n-lLyC-gtADB9jsGoPzf0o8C8II0snrtkjgrHViw/s1600-h/Darrius%2525209yr%252520bday%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Darrius 9yr bday" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Darrius 9yr bday" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-S6_YqcVdapA/Uj5B8APPlrI/AAAAAAAADNE/6XBkhmODfL8/Darrius%2525209yr%252520bday_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Larry needed something to do so he decided to make a bridge for the train track. Still a work in progress but it’s coming.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-44J44QLIl8U/Uj5B9KWtq9I/AAAAAAAADNM/3TdARnqC2AA/s1600-h/002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Oe_2Xac6cwY/Uj5B967Z_eI/AAAAAAAADNU/eDr76cUkVqI/002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>We also went to an Estate Sale one day and he was able to pick up some more cars and track.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ThKayZAFFcw/Uj5B-gGBD7I/AAAAAAAADNc/d19An2gHtQg/s1600-h/Lionel%252520cars%2525201%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Lionel cars 1 (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Lionel cars 1 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yAerp-JkChs/Uj5B_UBG0BI/AAAAAAAADNg/r31q-NeVTrM/Lionel%252520cars%2525201%252520%2525282%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LiGO3-dIBG0/Uj5CAlLligI/AAAAAAAADNs/Zuu1UhHmUlA/s1600-h/Lionel%252520Passenger%252520Cars%2525201%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Lionel Passenger Cars 1 (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Lionel Passenger Cars 1 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jgzkvGCDdiQ/Uj5CBdiMWAI/AAAAAAAADN0/K4obib8MOwU/Lionel%252520Passenger%252520Cars%2525201%252520%2525282%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="left">Of course he wasn’t the only one who found treasures at the sale. I came across a few things I couldn’t live without.</p> <p align="center">Found this neat sewing cabinet. Not that I sew but loved the look</p> <p align="center">   <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BhJSBClV3R0/Uj5CCpBBhsI/AAAAAAAADN8/sVTv5mdxtSI/s1600-h/Sewing%252520Cabinet%2525201%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sewing Cabinet 1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Sewing Cabinet 1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Xs3GtMReHew/Uj5CDkMaRWI/AAAAAAAADOE/KoRHM2YYm4g/Sewing%252520Cabinet%2525201_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="center">Plus it had all these neat old sewing items inside<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7ZDx9R_NfFg/Uj5CFAiWCRI/AAAAAAAADOM/2AinsgjEwS4/s1600-h/Sewing%252520Cabinet%252520%25252420%252520No%252520Markings%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sewing Cabinet $20 No Markings" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Sewing Cabinet $20 No Markings" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--y7PM_4ICGc/Uj5CF1fBqcI/AAAAAAAADOU/9sLHoEK9Jxs/Sewing%252520Cabinet%252520%25252420%252520No%252520Markings_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="center">Then I found this mahogany night stand <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-697RDcBenEE/Uj5CG9fM-eI/AAAAAAAADOc/TfHC7N4KFsM/s1600-h/Night%252520Stand%252520%25252420%2525201964%252520Oxford%2525205%252520%252523301OK%252520%252520%252520%252520%252520Kindle%252520Grand%252520Rapids%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Night Stand $20 1964 Oxford 5 #301OK Kindle Grand Rapids" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Night Stand $20 1964 Oxford 5 #301OK Kindle Grand Rapids" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Q1t5QE8QQtY/Uj5CHqLr5fI/AAAAAAAADOk/FKyEkWdNrLE/Night%252520Stand%252520%25252420%2525201964%252520Oxford%2525205%252520%252523301OK%252520%252520%252520%252520%252520Kindle%252520Grand%252520Rapids_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p align="center">And last this neat looking fold up table  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uqK2B-92TFw/Uj5CIlCoP8I/AAAAAAAADOs/UH5jfNTk994/s1600-h/End%252520Table%252520%2525242.00%252520No%252520markings%2525201%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="End Table $2.00 No markings 1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="End Table $2.00 No markings 1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Si9JHwmfBi4/Uj5CJFW7eZI/AAAAAAAADO0/WVROfX88iZo/End%252520Table%252520%2525242.00%252520No%252520markings%2525201_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p align="center">That needs Larry’s talents for repairs</p> <p align="center"><img title="End Table 1 (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="End Table 1 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-94Ztyf9TJWM/Uj5CJoW9o5I/AAAAAAAADO8/pyyerLxrMmc/End%252520Table%2525201%252520%2525282%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></p> <p align="left">All the pieces need restoring but these will be next summers projects. </p> <p align="left">Tomorrow our puppy sitting is up and we will meet the kids in Toledo to return Finn. It’s been interesting having two dogs and even though we’ve had a good time with Finn we know that we want to be a one puppy household. And I’m sure Pepper has no problem with that decision. She has warmed up to Finn some but the jealously is very there. </p> <p align="left">We did get most of the yard furniture etc in the garage and cut some of the plants down. I started looking at routes on my route planner for when we leave our friends in Wisconsin and head to Texas. Also started making my “to Texas” pile in the spare room. </p> <p align="left">Had Sears come out and clean all the ducts which after all the construction we knew they were bad. </p> <p align="left"> Weather next week calls for picture perfect fall days with temps in the 70’s and sunny. Not too thrilled with the lows at night.  </p> <p align="left">So that it’s for this week. Till next time……………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-33883044518418814532013-09-15T17:59:00.001-04:002013-09-15T17:59:54.462-04:00Puppy Sitting and Frost<p>We (& Pepper) have survived our first week of doggy sitting our kids dog Finn. It’s been interesting having a much larger one around but Finn is very well trained and has been a joy. On the other hand Pepper has had a hard time sharing her attention with another puppy.  </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyU2jq1M78_FfNklX0gALCe8doD5F0j0pkGSFphmzKTZEQljWHTyt9-YmGYeI-cXoa-waCV7FVttaXr4RTBtvja3z5aUs-fh0kQYcONllYDPjZvs1HedwMPbFyu7sZ0V1GLzol1APibA/s1600-h/20130914_114459%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20130914_114459" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20130914_114459" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TXJ-xDfQNuE/UjYt2AsVOYI/AAAAAAAADMs/3H7SoguKGco/20130914_114459_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="158" height="244" /></a></p> <p>There hasn’t been any fights between them but Pepper seems to think if Finn’s in the room she has to be sitting on one of our laps. The biggest change has been me having to go on these early morning walks. Normally Larry and Pepper go while I finish my coffee and read my news on line. But with two of them which means double on the poop duty (one being super sized) it’s easier for both of us to go. Another week and the kids will be back from their vacation to Brussels and Amsterdam and things will get back to normal for Pepper. </p> <p>The weather has gone from temperatures in the 90’s to frost on the windshield within just a couple of days. Today cold, cloudy, rainy and just a good day to have beef stew in the crock pot and watch a old movie (or in our case football). I told my family they better come and take the car keys or Larry will be packing it up to head south. But they are calling for temp’s back in the 70’s this week. Speaking of leaving we have a tentative date of around the 12th/13th of Oct to head out of Michigan. We plan on going up through the U.P. (ya I know we’re heading the wrong way) and then down to Sturgeon Bay to see our friends Gary/Marilynn and hopefully Jim/Pat. They both have places in our park in TX but won’t be coming until later. </p> <p>We’ll probably start putting the yard stuff away this week. Will miss my porch, sure wish I could have one attached to my trailer down south. Trying to use up the food and not buy any more then I have too but it always seems like I’m always lacking one ingredient to finish the meal. Oh well daughter will end up with what ever is left and I’m sure she’ll be happy.</p> <p>That’s it for now. Half time for the Lions and we need to take the dogs for a walk. Till next time…………………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-31911452092594711372013-09-08T19:22:00.001-04:002013-09-08T19:22:16.777-04:00A pool party with dogs<p>One day last week we along with my sister & sister in law made a trip to Turkeyville to a flea market they were having. And of course you can’t go there without having the full turkey dinner and it was worth it. </p> <p>They are talking a couple of days this week of high 80’s & 90’s then the bottom will fall out and highs will be in the 60’s. Not looking forward to those cooler temps.</p> <p>Saturday morning we made a trip down to Renee’ & Brians in Ohio. The Dog Adoption that Renee’ is really involved in was having a fund raiser that afternoon. The local water park allows them the use of the park for a day so anyone with dogs can come. Here’s a newspaper article about it. <a href="http://www.morningjournal.com/general-news/20130905/avon-lake-pool-preparing-for-big-splash-dog-swim-on-saturday">http://www.morningjournal.com/general-news/20130905/avon-lake-pool-preparing-for-big-splash-dog-swim-on-saturday</a></p> <p>We were totally just how many people show up with their dogs, there had to have been over a hundred of them. Here are a couple of pictures.</p> <p>Pepper wasn’t to thrilled with all the activity. We sat at a picnic table and just people/puppy watched.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-USYPFkIzCmE/Ui0GlXSuJ7I/AAAAAAAADLs/Jos-gIREa-E/s1600-h/pool%252520part%2525201%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="pool part 1" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="pool part 1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B1Wzcb7Qz50/Ui0Gl1cwxSI/AAAAAAAADL0/EaG0z6cLCMQ/pool%252520part%2525201_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="85" height="150" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-v4l0EbPd1HE/Ui0GmxYVxhI/AAAAAAAADL8/SFSBlKBs6Xg/s1600-h/Pool%252520Party%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pool Party" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Pool Party" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GmHuLqvc9bM/Ui0GnSP9GUI/AAAAAAAADME/BwFeCUp9zoA/Pool%252520Party_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="83" height="147" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OeoXk6-SmgY/Ui0GogI7_pI/AAAAAAAADMM/OV9FZLzQUXc/s1600-h/pool%2525201%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="pool 1" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="pool 1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-31Wgo0D4Tok/Ui0GpsqHHII/AAAAAAAADMU/nJZ48FHGfoU/pool%2525201_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="144" height="100" /></a></p> <p>This guy is all ready for a swim</p> <p><img style="margin: 0px 0px 5px" alt="Photo: I think this one should win the bathing suit contest!" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/p480x480/1175349_10202024460678978_586757704_n.jpg" width="101" height="133" /></p> <p>One of the other reasons for going down there was we were bring one of Renee’s dogs back with us to spend the next couple of weeks. The kids are leaving this week for a vacation so we’ll be doggy sitting. Finn is a pretty Border Collie and is really a neat dog. Pepper isn’t too sure about having a house guest, she pretty much stay right next to us. But they get along ok so we shouldn’t have a problem.</p> <p>That’s it for this week. Till next time…………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-88988215592252396642013-09-03T18:54:00.001-04:002013-09-03T18:54:10.839-04:00Neighbor Picnic<p>I just looked at the last post on my blog and the one I did the weekend of 8/24 isn’t there. Not sure what happened to it and of course I can’t remember what I wrote about. Thought maybe it was in the draft section but it’s not. Oh well I guess we’ll never know. </p> <p>We had our first annual Neighborhood Meet and Greet Picnic on Sunday. For it being on a Holiday weekend  we still had 18 attend. I was sort of surprised that many of these folks have lived across from each other for 20 years and had never had a conversation with them or even knew their names. This is one reason that I love spending our winters down in Retama where RV’ers aren’t bashful about walking up to a new neighbor and getting to know each other. Here’s a couple of pictures.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c4Ix_IIeDEU/UiZob0x8a1I/AAAAAAAADKE/UWrTvnFWrY4/s1600-h/002%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="002" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fCDRtWA8sFc/UiZoceFzABI/AAAAAAAADKM/YQhbWcxuf7g/002_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="163" height="126" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4s6YdnqeK8s/UiZoc2vwKMI/AAAAAAAADKU/nwUg6BjwkEQ/s1600-h/006%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="006" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P85DcfsA4JI/UiZodrCX9XI/AAAAAAAADKc/wMH9ra7grYM/006_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="156" height="121" /></a></p> <p align="center">And of course lots of food</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mjj3u9zXkKY/UiZoeGI2MkI/AAAAAAAADKk/iDq8x0q-92Y/s1600-h/003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="003" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-B0Juhx4KRFo/UiZoewUmp-I/AAAAAAAADKs/KtdS282ubjk/003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="155" height="124" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aAkP3DMTLs0/UiZofy4qS9I/AAAAAAAADK0/ycMoqSzrZFg/s1600-h/004%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="004" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bdiiQVY6YBo/UiZogaOPMfI/AAAAAAAADK8/h1SuCQ3Kt1I/004_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="114" height="125" /></a></p> <p>We got the patio table and chairs painted and put back on the porch. Really like the bright yellow but I need to find some new cushions.This patio set has a lot of history. My folks purchased this when they had their cottage back in the 60’s. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-objbic5hPy4/UiZohmYb16I/AAAAAAAADLE/UNiOSenzFuQ/s1600-h/003%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="003" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mRUXodXeNy4/UiZoiY36DLI/AAAAAAAADLM/yVljo4mCfFI/003_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>We had to take Pepper over to the Vet’s today and for some shots needed plus a allergy shot. This time of year she really starts scratching and this shot clears her right up. She sure isn’t like most dogs, has no problem walking in the office and loves the vet. He lets her give him all the kisses she wants to, all the while saying “I’m not going to even think about where that tongue has been”. Two shots and one of drawing blood and she still wanted to be give him one last kiss before we left. </p> <p>Today thousands of kids headed through those big wide doors ending another summer. Some were excited, some scared and some “not” happy at all. What do you think our grand-son Darrius was.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEyE-yafcRY655RpOvtsEFcOS3yCusg6cPGDLWeDW1RMtBsNUZDqqltuuXY471fJ9ZVOMgCIVhrqOz_O1Qp97FTrJ3BuDijKG9HGnUCbrlQRVgo1fwpYZZwGkai0H2KHYIeSW4-vlsxg/s1600-h/1174870_10200530939427306_2051097_n%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="1174870_10200530939427306_2051097_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="1174870_10200530939427306_2051097_n" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-R56UHexvcuU/UiZokRJn1jI/AAAAAAAADLc/BIQUqnT1nDo/1174870_10200530939427306_2051097_n_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244" /></a></p> <p align="left">That’s it for this week. Till next time……….</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-13757280458115960852013-08-16T16:05:00.001-04:002013-08-16T16:05:23.449-04:00The Tables done + One<p>OK, I didn’t realize I hadn’t written the blog until the middle of the week so I figured I might as well wait until the weekend. Of course this was actually one weekend that I had some things to write about without having to rack my brain and now that I’ve started I can’t remember it all. Oh well.</p> <p>But like the header reads we got the table done + one. Here’s the before and after picture of my $15.00 table. I’m really happy with the way it turned out and the color.</p> <p align="center">(Click on Pictures to enlarge)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-d5h7hO5Y-XI/Ug6F2A2ZY2I/AAAAAAAADIM/dhJUvPFMp7I/s1600-h/20130710_094733%252520%252528Copy%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="20130710_094733 (Copy)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20130710_094733 (Copy)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VEhBJBsJ4dZaHf23cokR8FVSuZttjFwzvfDbGuPESc2iLThb_nk3Pzr2i8DnQOXXdI28o9lCV9vK4DNvf_50Q0lt7wAkXA5qymImwcFp9ESG0fIbMwWcX-lwajkYwk3DnwcYAJS_Iw/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4QsyJqoxFjcNkbKdDpErcNKjLt6qz1pNx9AtzVADUliV5aFW7ZouLqkTLHq_4B5NdHZAW06j_V19_9LcrR9mM-6otd16IDbkxYYoUE-_kDEUBNnj5QjKeqo_jhUkyVmdu02fXIClQQ/s1600-h/003%252520%252528Copy%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="003 (Copy)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="003 (Copy)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RHabCQXFBzI/Ug6F4i0DowI/AAAAAAAADIk/kHitQxC7SHk/003%252520%252528Copy%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The + one is Larry made me the bench I wanted. Figured with all the other honey-do projects the bench would be next summer. Then we went to JoAnn Fabrics and I picked out the material I wanted for the top seat. Did I mention that the seat opens and I have more storage? </p> <p align="center">Here’s a picture of my new eating area.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--sD17OPhpQk/Ug6F5TPn-vI/AAAAAAAADIs/9bxEJM7Ww50/s1600-h/002%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFmm6gtGBuGzjdyVOjWmaM0-8Egx_ZsQz4xJh2Xew_N1WQ5f-6FR0Af49EUwSmfgHXNXX70-cUg8fVJWKogKuyA6QBD_-wcLz0MgQY4UUVucnsnAQ7ntZ1WNyh4f8frUjhNxcvfwp5Q/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>If you noticed in the picture on the wall there is a rolling pin. My mother gave this to me 45 years ago and told me every housewife needs a rolling pin. This was one she had for many years and used it often. I’m afraid I didn’t live up to moms standards of rolling out pie crusts but I’ll treasure it forever. </p> <p>Last weekend (one of the reasons I forgot to post we went up to my brother’s place in Houghton Lake for the Poker Run on the Lake. We had a great time with Bob & Diane and sister Nadene as we went to five different places along the lake and picked up our sealed envelopes with a card inside. For those that don’t know the lake it is huge and it took us over 4 hours to get around it. Of course at each stop we were offered a variety of snacks and many choices of beverages. One was a pudding shot that was just wonderful; this is one I will need to share with the ladies at Retama this winter. After we got all our cards we went back to the house and then over to the Elks Club for a pot luck and drawings. When the guy opened my envelopes and I asked him if I had anything he said I didn’t need to pay much attention to the winning name. But at the last minute I decided to buy raffle tickets for the liquor box and this is what I won. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-c4SMmnWK98o/Ug6F63pelII/AAAAAAAADI8/IqYGXwksj7I/s1600-h/002%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img title="002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dD-NZhepWP8/Ug6F7rlq9II/AAAAAAAADJE/v1soUYkPkL0/002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>I guess I already have my bottle of wine for our Wine N Cheese Party this winter</p> <p>Just want to wish our Grand-Daughter a Happy 19<sup>th</sup> Birthday. She and I always do a lunch date together as our birthdays are so close. Isn’t she a beautiful young woman.</p> <p align="center"></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMvYtztpOpxlBXBPzLgKJF3sqBDpBrh54PgC8Q363SBQGKJxWyv7IFMIoqORLJgvRhiC_iCW47UYzb1IRMxjbvmbONlyhCduFqK8-H5e79uFBQVzPk-gV0pGVf3s1u3jbwcPmINDEYA/s1600-h/1146533_10200384248240118_112746496_n%25255B1%25255D%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="1146533_10200384248240118_112746496_n[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="1146533_10200384248240118_112746496_n[1]" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x0aT12tYhLs/Ug6F9KyRGFI/AAAAAAAADJU/Miejlfg_u-c/1146533_10200384248240118_112746496_n%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="185" height="143" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6fGGo4k8Zr21xmaK2cUMkeiP7jb1Y-ERvSwbqA37gFkSA2faUDHJTKTDhiPnzjSwVC_xcyh5-uiRhRm3rtOZP-5MuN27YOMg1-kLXYBqXajcJQ0X4TTU4wQk_f_ped2j-ehAgcB73g/s1600-h/1149028_10200384242359971_1658585949_n%25255B1%25255D%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="1149028_10200384242359971_1658585949_n[1]" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="1149028_10200384242359971_1658585949_n[1]" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DPJizuWGIks/Ug6F-VevH2I/AAAAAAAADJk/hWXJmDtqV_k/1149028_10200384242359971_1658585949_n%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="134" height="180" /></a></p> <p>And the Step-Grandson is off this week to Ferris University. Brandi said the first thing they had to do when they got to his dorm is take the bunk beds down. Since his roommate isn’t much smaller then Dar-Relle they decided these beds weren’t made for this abuse and neither one wanted take the bottom bunk. </p> <p align="center">Here’s one proud papa and little brother</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKJRfW02Dt2KvZremKVKpWWyCMOj4DiyL5gYTVaXJwKnqIqOtvXFzzLvIzXiodo5awXFeFAt7IDYXgJQ4jlfKcXk3hQ03m4h9dEqiceK2b96e-wPzFH_lGNhlo8vn3WlEdeZEnLBqtA/s1600-h/photo%252520%2525282%252529%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="photo (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="photo (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_JRUOsO8Vnw/Ug6GAUQ0QQI/AAAAAAAADJ0/si8vq3nBSGk/photo%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244" /></a></p> <p align="center">Did you notice the door behind them? I sure hope Dar-Relle remembers to duck or he’s going to have to start wearing his football helmet all the time. </p> <p>I guess that’s it. This pretty much fills you in on what’s happening here. We’ve had some really chilly nights in the 40’s and highs only in the 60’s. Luckily it’s supposed to change this weekend and get back to some summer weather or I’m not sure how long I’d be able to keep Larry here. </p> <p>Till next time………………………………………………………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-41276747952191890042013-08-03T20:10:00.001-04:002013-08-03T20:10:55.061-04:00No table picture yet<p>Well I was hoping I would be able to share a before and after picture of my table that I’ve been working on. I was close. On the drop down leaf’s we used a roller to apply the primer verses a brush. So when Larry sprayed the paint on it you could see brush strokes. Ugh!!!! Nope can’t leave it that way. So we pulled the sanders back out and sanded all the leaves and top of the table down. Now the problem is we don’t have enough paint to finish it. Which calls for another trip down to Jonesville (about 1.5 hrs south) to this little store that is the closest one near us that sells this paint. It’s called Old Century Paint and the color is called Firethorn. That’s all I’m going to say about the color other than it’s a new one just released from this company. You’ll have to wait for the picture. Now what I haven’t mentioned is there are lots and lots of antique shops in the area so we’ll <u>have</u> to stop in a couple of those. Oh and there is a neat place to eat down there called Old Post that I’ve been told has good food.</p> <p>Well I had one of those B-Days that we all have once a year and either freak out about or could care less. I’m one of those “could care less” types; it’s just another day to me. But my grand-daughter Anissa needed a ride to work on Friday and look what I got. Did I tell you I have an awesome grand-daughter. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_Int4-cGFVk/Uf2b-xxMTlI/AAAAAAAADHU/tvfkiDhHNwk/s1600-h/004%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="004" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dcTl4vXoaVQ/Uf2b_toRjRI/AAAAAAAADHc/AdkqldDOsxs/004_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="159" height="244" /></a></p> <p>My old boss asked me to come in one day this week and play employee again while his real one takes a day off. So I was back at my old desk that I sat at for almost 15 years. Since I couldn’t do much other then take a message I took my own computer in along with the Activities Schedule for Retama and started reviewing what the committee had scheduled and what was on the actual Calendar Website to make sure we have all the activities listed for this winter. Nice quiet time to do this and get paid too: can’t beat that.</p> <p>Today was the annual Island Art Fair in our little town. So some friends, my sister and two sisters in laws along with my great niece and great-great niece all came to my house and we walked into town. </p> <p align="center">Here’s a pictured of our little group<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpN6y3nQh4rh4-RP4-syNq-2GsI8W-RNHJjGk8GiiCCpTu9fTF1o0wDjjaRBDkFv1c9dgGNkKeVOfHvkm9xr1Sl91TQ650iM_rKe61oKl57qRlGJthE03j6JmNjCPKtzX7xdkq7t9B9w/s1600-h/Island%252520Fair%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Island Fair" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Island Fair" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P4TTRC_Tuj4/Uf2cBZWMUtI/AAAAAAAADHs/FvlIP9qm8pc/Island%252520Fair_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139" /></a></p> <p align="center">Here’s a picture of the crowd waiting to get on the Island</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X0nSh1ftKCY/Uf2cCmmigeI/AAAAAAAADH0/koE58Zvu1Us/s1600-h/547423_10201026354913612_801488383_n%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="547423_10201026354913612_801488383_n" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="547423_10201026354913612_801488383_n" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G39E8P1D3HU/Uf2cDbh4LLI/AAAAAAAADH8/T5IM_Qac1bk/547423_10201026354913612_801488383_n_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139" /></a></p> <p align="left">That’s about it for this week. Next weekend we’re going up to Bob & Diane’s place at Houghton Lake and go on a Poker Run using boats. Should be interesting. Little Pepper is going to go spend the weekend with Darrius. Now that will really be interesting for Brandi and Darrell. Putting those two together is like having a mini tornado around. </p> <p>Till next time…………………………………………….</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-1842814344092843792013-07-27T21:00:00.001-04:002013-07-27T21:00:01.115-04:00Great weather, working on table, getting organized<p>Weather this week has been pretty perfect, warm, sunny, low humidity. A cold front went through a little while ago and they are talking a high tomorrow of 63. Remember that electric fireplace I bought at my own garage sale, well we might get a chance to see how it works in the next day or so.</p> <p>I worked on my table this week. OMG I’d forgotten how much work it was to get something like this ready to paint with stripping, sanding then putting a primer on it. Not ready to share pictures yet but once I have it painted and “if” it turns out I will share a couple of pictures. Took me two days just to do all the legs so hopefully tomorrow I can get back in the garage and start on the three leaves and table top. </p> <p>I do have some pictures to share tho. The first one is a drawing my great niece Quinn in Albq. did This is just awesome for a 12 year old, or awesome at any age.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WzGB2jyNtJM/UfRs_DfnjpI/AAAAAAAADGM/-uiz_mSme0Q/s1600-h/Quinn%252527s%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="Quinn's" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Quinn's" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ttVqJoMuS7k/UfRs__3OGUI/AAAAAAAADGU/Yhol8uEQlsQ/Quinn%252527s_thumb%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="196" height="199" /></a></p> <p>Our grandson Darrius had his picture in the local On-line paper this week. We went to the last track met on Wednesday and the place was packed. I think it was because it was the last one. We finally left at 9pm after he ran the 100m, just couldn’t take standing on that concrete side lines waiting for the 200m that could be another hour. Anyway here’s the picture of him doing the long jump.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVcpaTSkcQmbs0n0lWaHbVm0coBQyN4l0T2FrzCI52w52bUCAgRrGq12kp3J11Eyh3aOxTN1HnKNDJ1O9qoTZM3ep69isQJGU17RqjDULbSEB7tU2T1ZDQRSC6wP_TTQ05acWBGMm8g/s1600-h/bilde%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="bilde" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="bilde" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8UrjSQmrB7KASPEtvxiRd1uo9J39QiuXXZ431VGQhA9lr0lAuBjhjsov4x3Oe8rE5Gst2QdiYplS7wsiokKfVPEGrDl6-3ySa8DRY2z3JJpFahGXZ9y90vWGoXNVtQ4cxXgVaGKThAw/?imgmax=800" width="178" height="244" /></a></p> <p>The last picture shows you what you might see in small town America. Our Police Dept was busy one day trying to capture and arrest these bad guys.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2TrXPwIeRvw/UfRtCIhTrqI/AAAAAAAADGs/CSLZNlO9Z8E/s1600-h/GLPD%2525201%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="GLPD 1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="GLPD 1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3isumHGeU1k/UfRtCic7JWI/AAAAAAAADG0/IfZPZrMs3O8/GLPD%2525201_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--GwcpZcZzlI/UfRtDAMH4OI/AAAAAAAADG8/pjE7u4QiLdk/s1600-h/GLPD%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="GLPD" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="GLPD" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jLbYYkdwWNM/UfRtD4N5b4I/AAAAAAAADHE/norTUw9iZBk/GLPD_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="1">I think all they wanted was a cup of coffee at </font><font size="1">Tim Hortons.</font></p> <p>Larry’s been working in the basement getting his shop area as organized as much as you can with a lot of equipment that use to fill a 600 sq ft shop into a whole lot smaller one. But it’s looking better and he’s gotten some work benches set up and drawers made for them. He also got some peg boards this week and framed those to hang. I even got a couple of them for the garage, which he’s also been working on cleaning and organizing. </p> <p>So that’s about it from this end. Till next time………………………………………………..</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-86558384073613570552013-07-21T14:57:00.001-04:002013-07-21T14:57:29.312-04:00The Porch is DONE (almost)<p><font size="2">OK, I promise this will be the last time I bring the porch up. Larry finished cutting the design in the boards that were going up on the posts and the paint finally dried so we could install them. He needed to cut three more finishing boards for the tops of the posts and those are drying now so he’ll put them up tomorrow. But I really wanted to share a picture with you. </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="2">First I want to show you the before picture</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ycM5Nl22V8E/Uewu-Z8mtFI/AAAAAAAADE0/qgmH-iOBs7s/s1600-h/007%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="007" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="007" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-65ZjvenShcM/Uewu_JpTZjI/AAAAAAAADE8/7fMaapYbc5M/007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="2">And the After</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="2"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4ODQ3Q4fyyJwk-5pJFJZWyZkK3CasKg1Ho03BPpK-FtRNn4cej_MRCfPHTVDlBgA7NNlhuW-V-Yp3wfZSeDe2h8klBALTlcrE1njk9bMjJvTULS97XxUvafEaAGaUAspC2pXolatNA/s1600-h/009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="009" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ng3F92cywlc/UewvAxZKWJI/AAAAAAAADFM/b2Boi_Xr66k/009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="170" /></a></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="2">Here’s a better shot of Larry’s handy work</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdNUNF2vLovy_N15nQtJCm5S0DWTzzBenNNHxuMEq7FIo8L9wT6AMUoVmxU03CWh4OWu-E-f64MdBKS0qUV8psUiwX6VGOEjhxsok9QlhavfK_ohwY3ilhwOJFDgSSIM_PvAFEnrEXg/s1600-h/2-2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="2-2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2-2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-w6Cn4GhaVjk/UewvCuFmJvI/AAAAAAAADFc/uGDlrWfKjTE/2-2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p align="left"><font size="2">As you can guess we spend a lot of time out there and now that I have my newest garage sale find I’m really enjoying it. Did you notice my chairs. If not here’s a close up.</font></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mixMLKBoiTU/UewvD-FhfEI/AAAAAAAADFk/oHzqL49ysXk/s1600-h/2013072095120845%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="2013072095120845" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2013072095120845" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O7Gn4MzZENk/UewvEo6twXI/AAAAAAAADFs/oDbLRpwnlWE/2013072095120845_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p><font size="2">I talked Larry into walking down the street yesterday to a garage sale just to see what they had. Well there sat the two chairs and table that I wanted so bad for the front porch. I’ve looked at these and they have been well over $100 each and just couldn’t justify spending that much for two chairs to sit outside. So when I saw the price of $20 for everything I couldn’t get a twenty dollar bill out fast enough. After we got them home I gave them a good scrub and they look almost brand new. If I don’t find one more thing at a garage sale for the rest of the year I’ll be happy (& so will Larry). </font></p> <p><font size="2">There’s one other picture I’d like to share and it has nothing to do with the house. This was in the local paper. It shows what can happen when crossing the Mackinaw Bridge during high winds. They say the gust was 70mph and the truck was only going 20mph.  Scary ha.</font></p> <p align="center">  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X6HdvDnYu9w/UewvFIcMaeI/AAAAAAAADF0/XgQrVSvvD-c/s1600-h/998872_10151812439602578_1537073397_n%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="998872_10151812439602578_1537073397_n" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="998872_10151812439602578_1537073397_n" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GWKcyk2Ejf4/UewvFxRn7uI/AAAAAAAADF8/Ql60HqMfzqc/998872_10151812439602578_1537073397_n_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p><font size="2">Our high temps and humidity finally broke Friday night. All week we were hitting heat index’s of 100+ which when you don’t have air conditioning and there isn’t a bit on wind (will never complain about the TX wind) it just wasn’t fun. But we are now enjoying temps around 80*, a nice breeze and low humidity. </font></p> <p><font size="2">So that’s it for this week. Till next time……….</font></p> <p><font size="2"> </font></p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-63581455195907151122013-07-15T20:15:00.001-04:002013-07-15T20:15:03.190-04:00Not much happening<p>I totally forgot to do my weekend blog. Old age is setting in I guess. Actually it’s getting harder each week to find something to write about. How many times do my friends and family want to hear about the porch or our trips to Menards. I’m actually thinking about putting a hold on the blog until after we get back down in Texas. </p> <p>So what’s happening here? Last Saturday I went with my sister Nadene out to Michigan State Univ. I’ve mentioned that she owns a Wholesale Distributing Business for agriculture equipment called <a href="www.farmco.com">Farmco.</a> Each year MSU hosts <a href="http://agexpo.msu.edu/">Ag-Expo</a> where you can go to find any type of farm equipment you ever thought of. Anyway we went out to put table cloths on the tables that are inside the tent. They started moving items in a week ago. With the (expensive) permits that the State and County requires it takes that long. They have to tell them what the equipment is, license number of vehicle pulling it, name of driver and what time frame they will be towing it. Toss that all in with all the road construction that always seems to be going on and it’s a very stressful event. Nadene’s words.</p> <p>Here’s a couple of pictures of just a few of the equipment that they take out there</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-m6Dpf97HN8o/UeSQdZoWfDI/AAAAAAAADEM/iOgHCyfWFdg/s1600-h/20130713_102037%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20130713_102037" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20130713_102037" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cFX4DJEms_Q/UeSQeTttM7I/AAAAAAAADEU/A52JyW8GUdk/20130713_102037_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-e5ZzYiCTP8o/UeSQgVlF2aI/AAAAAAAADEc/MrJPKFWZEjs/s1600-h/20130713_102635_resized%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="20130713_102635_resized" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto 5px; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20130713_102635_resized" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-glmoj94bruU/UeSQhBU0m8I/AAAAAAAADEk/6WLJ4psgHKo/20130713_102635_resized_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Larry went over to Johnson’s Lumber and picked up a 100 board feet of wood to finish the porch posts with. We’ve been sanding and priming for the last couple of days. I finished the sanding today but we need to put primer on some and then start the painting. Once that's done and put up I’ll post a picture.</p> <p>Another project I’ve started on was a maple table I found at a garage sale for $15.00. I’ve decided we need more seating in the kitchen when we have company. Larry just loves it when I decide to do something as it normally means work for him, which in this case it will. I want to have a banquette seating area and this table (which has 3 leaves) will be perfect. But first I need to strip it, sand it, prime it, then paint it. Oh and Larry has to make the banquette. </p> <p>OK, so that’s about it for the week. I know we did lots of other things but as usual can’t think of them when I’m typing this. </p> <p>So until next time………………………………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30413477946179550.post-58592296742200011522013-07-08T19:29:00.001-04:002013-07-08T19:29:47.496-04:00Trip to Ohio<p>A belated Happy 4<sup>th</sup> of July to everyone out there in my blog land and I hope you all had a good time where ever you are. </p> <p>Our week was a busy one which lately seems to be the norm in our life. Larry worked down in the basement putting a new panel box up to get things ready to change things over to 200amp. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yAi-ym4LrUM/UdtLYSaw-AI/AAAAAAAADDk/X6dVVERSPKs/s1600-h/001%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R-1Cam3x_qA/UdtLZL41krI/AAAAAAAADDs/CrAXa9jgF1A/001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Of course this meant pulling the plug on the power to the house for several hours. Luckily I have a good battery in my computer and could at least do some cleaning up on my system that I’ve wanted to do.</p> <p>Then on Thursday we picked up my sister and headed for Renee’ and Brian’s in Avon Lake Ohio. That afternoon we went over to Brian’s folks and had a nice picnic with his family. Lots of food and such fun watching the kids (including Brian & his brothers) having squirt gun fights. Luckily we declared the gazebo as a safe area and no water squirting allowed.</p> <p>Friday morning included a trip to Lowes and Home Depot as the kids needed a new front door once dad decided the old one was not fixable. And Renee’ thought as long as they had the tools out and a mess in the entrance way they might just as well install the screen door she’s wanted. </p> <p>Here’s Brian and Larry putting the new screen door on</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZMr0X7sxAXY/UdtLZ3eGZJI/AAAAAAAADD0/oWKaX1muRZM/s1600-h/20130705_142339_resized%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="20130705_142339_resized" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20130705_142339_resized" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-y8SrS_vXlCo/UdtLaSBG-MI/AAAAAAAADD8/DcxsXcD81z0/20130705_142339_resized_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="152" height="255" /></a></p> <p>Once the doors were purchased and we had them back to the house we girls decided the best thing we could do to help the guys was to get out of their way. So we did this by going out and purchasing a couple of aerial rugs for the kitchen & living room. Then we stopped at the local Nursery to wander around there. This is Nadene and my favorite thing to do and as it turned out my daughter has the same desire. What a neat huge place with so many gorgeous flowers and the inside was full of garden items. And when we returned to the house (several hours later) the doors were installed and looking really good. </p> <p>That night Renee’ and Brian took us out to this Mexican restaurant for dinner. The food was good and the margarita was really good. Saturday morning were up early and headed for home. </p> <p>Yesterday (Sunday) we had to run into Lowes and while there I went out to the garden center. They had these really nice Dogwood Bushes on sale for $3.00. Just couldn’t pass those up so we purchased 7 of them and that afternoon we planted them along the fence. This will help with a little privacy when we’re in the back yard. Pictures next week.</p> <p>We have had a heat wave the last few days. Temp’s haven’t been that bad but the humidly has been around 85%. Needless to say we don’t do a lot outside. Course not much inside either since we don’t have air conditioning. </p> <p>Last night we had happy hour with neighbors, which usually ends up being dinner since we both load up on snacks. We’ve decided to have a neighborhood picnic next month. We’ve (Pat & I) have talked with several neighbors and mentioned it and they all said what a wonderful idea since they don’t know their neighbors. Some of these folks have lived near each other for 20 years, can you believe it. I guess that’s one of the advantages of living in a RV Park, your not shy on walking up to a new person and introducing yourself. Anyway this should be fun and more on it when it gets closer.</p> <p>Guess that’s it for now. Till next time……………</p> Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16620306914259258391noreply@blogger.com0