As we close this year, I would like to leave you with a message. Although you may feel it pertains to women, I feel it also emcompasses men.
Drawing Water From The Well
I went down to the well, like Leah and Rachel, like Miriam and Rebecca. The women of the old testament were always meeting at wells. Things were welling up inside of them, inside of me. I was looking for women with whom I could draw water - quench my thirst, cleanse my soul, mirror even a reflection of myself. Who was I? Certainly more than this empty space, this longing, this searching. Like an empty cup, a chalice perhaps, waiting to be filled. I long to bear the libation, a sacrament we raise to our lips. Let us taste the communion.
We are all sometimes women alone, waiting for this chance to come together. It is a marking point on the mythic map of our journey. We have wakened to the calling for something deeper, something we call up from the earth, from our bodies. As women we find ourselves rooted in our bodies. We can't escape them, so we embrace them. This is the beginning, when we turn inward to draw up water from the well. We will meet at the Source.
I will also close with this quote from E.B. Browning -
"With stammering lips and insufficent sounds, I strive and struggle to deliver right the music of my nature".
And Anais Nin said, "And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
Have a Blessed New Year,
Donna
Friday, December 29, 2006
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Day after Christmas
Hello dear readers! I hope your Christmas celebrations or other Holiday celebrations were all that you had expected. We missed our families a great deal but spoke with almost all of them on the phone. Maybe next year we can remedy the situation in some manner. We did enjoy a fine turkey dinner at the community center here in the park with our neighbors. Ralph and I were seated at a table with 12 others who were all french canadians. They are all bilingual to a degree which is a good thing since we (shamefully) are not. We enjoyed ourselves very much. Ralph made rye rolls which were a huge success and he is now being pursued by several french ladies to provide the recipe. Conversation, laughter, good wine and good food crossed any cultural barriers there were. We now have many new friends and invitations to come north across the border.
I now have WiFi at the coach since I spent a few bucks and had my pc repaired. The Apple will not work here. It is so much better. Now I can be more creative - Look Out! I will try to post some pics. I have taken some new ones but seem to be slowing down in the photograph department which is unlike me. Please note the picture of my new Christmas present from Ralph. I have wanted one of these very tacky palm trees for a couple of years. My dad would be proud of me. We, my sis, my brother and me, come by our desire for tacky lawn ornaments genetically through our dad. He was a master at many things but one special gift he passed to us was the desire to put up tacky lights. This palm will ride with us now and be displayed in the large windshield of Bearfoot IV everywhere we park. We do need a sign too. We will work on that this summer at the Island where all the tools are.
We just returned from a bike trip in the rain. It started out cloudy but soon the clouds became one big black one and down it came. It was a cold rain so we hustled back but did manage to get in 10 miles. The sun is out now and it is lovely but I still have my sweats on warming my muscles.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
December 21, 2006
I have a nice surprise! I am posting from Bearfoot IV at Lake San Marino. I took my computer to a nearby shop and they fixed it. Seems my graphics card was not seated properly. I also bought a fan pad for it as it runs too hot. My current problem is trouble with the mail program through the WiFi server here at the park. But I can pick up mail on my web browser. I expect to spend sometime with the techs on the phone.
I biked this morning with 17 other souls for 17 miles and much of the time we pushed strong winds. I am tired but feel as though I really pushed myself physically. That is a good thing. Ralph is not going with us until after the first of the year. He and I bike around the park plus we walk a couple of miles with Sebastian. I am listening to Santana as I type this. Brings back many memories. Our group had two flat tires this morning so we were held up for awhile.
Ralph and I plan to play golf next week. He wants to find a place to rent a kayak so we can go together. I think that would be something he could do without becoming too winded. I hope he can join us in the biking soon. I have gotten used to riding behind his broad back.
We will be having Christmas dinner here with others in the community center. We both miss our families very much. This is the first time for both of us to not be with some family. But we have a great meal planned. It is a full house of probably over a 100 people. The park furnishes the turkey and fixin's while each table provides different dishes for their table. I think there are 14 at a table. Our table is mostly french speaking people which should be an international experience. We are bringing a large mixed green salade (note the french). I know that much. We may bring some "pain" which is bread too if Ralph decides to make some. It is going to rain off and on here for the next few days. It is very warm and lovely so it really doesn't matter.
I will write more and perhaps post some pics. Most of my pics are on ralph's Apple. Blessings to all readers.
I biked this morning with 17 other souls for 17 miles and much of the time we pushed strong winds. I am tired but feel as though I really pushed myself physically. That is a good thing. Ralph is not going with us until after the first of the year. He and I bike around the park plus we walk a couple of miles with Sebastian. I am listening to Santana as I type this. Brings back many memories. Our group had two flat tires this morning so we were held up for awhile.
Ralph and I plan to play golf next week. He wants to find a place to rent a kayak so we can go together. I think that would be something he could do without becoming too winded. I hope he can join us in the biking soon. I have gotten used to riding behind his broad back.
We will be having Christmas dinner here with others in the community center. We both miss our families very much. This is the first time for both of us to not be with some family. But we have a great meal planned. It is a full house of probably over a 100 people. The park furnishes the turkey and fixin's while each table provides different dishes for their table. I think there are 14 at a table. Our table is mostly french speaking people which should be an international experience. We are bringing a large mixed green salade (note the french). I know that much. We may bring some "pain" which is bread too if Ralph decides to make some. It is going to rain off and on here for the next few days. It is very warm and lovely so it really doesn't matter.
I will write more and perhaps post some pics. Most of my pics are on ralph's Apple. Blessings to all readers.
December 21, 2006
I have a nice surprise! I am posting from Bearfoot IV at Lake San Marino. I took my computer to a nearby shop and they fixed it. Seems my graphics card was not seated properly. I also bought a fan pad for it as it runs too hot. My current problem is trouble with the mail program through the WiFi server here at the park. But I can pick up mail on my web browser. I expect to spend sometime with the techs on the phone.
I biked this morning with 17 other souls for 17 miles and much of the time we pushed strong winds. I am tired but feel as though I really pushed myself physically. That is a good thing. Ralph is not going with us until after the first of the year. He and I bike around the park plus we walk a couple of miles with Sebastian. I am listening to Santana as I type this. Brings back many memories. Our group had two flat tires this morning so we were held up for awhile.
Ralph and I plan to play golf next week. He wants to find a place to rent a kayak so we can go together. I think that would be something he could do without becoming too winded. I hope he can join us in the biking soon. I have gotten used to riding behind his broad back.
We will be having Christmas dinner here with others in the community center. We both miss our families very much. This is the first time for both of us to not be with some family. But we have a great meal planned. It is a full house of probably over a 100 people. The park furnishes the turkey and fixin's while each table provides different dishes for their table. I think there are 14 at a table. Our table is mostly french speaking people which should be an international experience. We are bringing a large mixed green salade (note the french). I know that much. We may bring some "pain" which is bread too if Ralph decides to make some. It is going to rain off and on here for the next few days. It is very warm and lovely so it really doesn't matter.
I will write more and perhaps post some pics. Most of my pics are on ralph's Apple. Blessings to all readers.
I biked this morning with 17 other souls for 17 miles and much of the time we pushed strong winds. I am tired but feel as though I really pushed myself physically. That is a good thing. Ralph is not going with us until after the first of the year. He and I bike around the park plus we walk a couple of miles with Sebastian. I am listening to Santana as I type this. Brings back many memories. Our group had two flat tires this morning so we were held up for awhile.
Ralph and I plan to play golf next week. He wants to find a place to rent a kayak so we can go together. I think that would be something he could do without becoming too winded. I hope he can join us in the biking soon. I have gotten used to riding behind his broad back.
We will be having Christmas dinner here with others in the community center. We both miss our families very much. This is the first time for both of us to not be with some family. But we have a great meal planned. It is a full house of probably over a 100 people. The park furnishes the turkey and fixin's while each table provides different dishes for their table. I think there are 14 at a table. Our table is mostly french speaking people which should be an international experience. We are bringing a large mixed green salade (note the french). I know that much. We may bring some "pain" which is bread too if Ralph decides to make some. It is going to rain off and on here for the next few days. It is very warm and lovely so it really doesn't matter.
I will write more and perhaps post some pics. Most of my pics are on ralph's Apple. Blessings to all readers.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
December 14, 2006
today is my youngest daughter's birthday. Seems like just yesterday she was born. I remember I didn't feel like doing any Christmas shopping or card writing that year. She was actually due on the 24th. Everything was let go 'til the last minute. We had time immediately after she was born and we were home. But it was very hurried. She slept in her little bassinet in the livingroom while the other three children played their new record player full volume. We were in our unfinished living room at that time but had managed to put up a tree. There wasn't any finished floor in there just subfloor which in our case was planks. We heated our house with a wood stove in the basement and the heat radiated up through the cracks in the flooring which grew larger as they dried out. We had a large sheet of plastic between the kitchen and the livingroom since the livingroom was still "in process". I look back and I marvel since we had our last two children while trying to live in our house which we were building by ourselves. What energy we had back then and how we struggled to make a life for our 4 little children and ourselves.
We are having a cloudy day today. A few showers but nothing substantial yet. Tomorrow maybe! We need rain here. I did bike this morning with the club. Ralph has not been feeling well. He had some tests done this morning. He tried twice to ride with the club but felt poorly and had to quit. I hope this new cardiologist can get him straightened out. We met the new doctor on Monday and liked him very much. He thinks it is Ralph's meds that are creating the problems. Hopefully he will be back on track here soon.
Miracles are happening all around me. I am grateful for each and everyone. I forgot who it was who said, "Expect Miracles." I think it was actually Jesus Christ. I don't take them for granted but I do expect them.
I had an identity theft problem with my online banking accounts. Thankfully, Wachovia's fine Fraud division picked it up before any money was taken. But I had to change all my accounts. What a hassle that is. But I have notified nearly everyone who gets paid automatically from my account. I think I will be changeing my email address too after all these years with the same one. I feel violated and think that now the thieves have my email address, I don't trust the internet. Best to change the whole thing now. One good thing is it will eliminate the junk mail at least for the time being. I will keep you all posted when I change it.
We are having a cloudy day today. A few showers but nothing substantial yet. Tomorrow maybe! We need rain here. I did bike this morning with the club. Ralph has not been feeling well. He had some tests done this morning. He tried twice to ride with the club but felt poorly and had to quit. I hope this new cardiologist can get him straightened out. We met the new doctor on Monday and liked him very much. He thinks it is Ralph's meds that are creating the problems. Hopefully he will be back on track here soon.
Miracles are happening all around me. I am grateful for each and everyone. I forgot who it was who said, "Expect Miracles." I think it was actually Jesus Christ. I don't take them for granted but I do expect them.
I had an identity theft problem with my online banking accounts. Thankfully, Wachovia's fine Fraud division picked it up before any money was taken. But I had to change all my accounts. What a hassle that is. But I have notified nearly everyone who gets paid automatically from my account. I think I will be changeing my email address too after all these years with the same one. I feel violated and think that now the thieves have my email address, I don't trust the internet. Best to change the whole thing now. One good thing is it will eliminate the junk mail at least for the time being. I will keep you all posted when I change it.
Friday, December 08, 2006
December 7 2006
Just sat down at a coffee shoppe to post this blog after 2 hours of arduous shopping. I buy nearly all Gift Cards but even with that I am exhausted. I am the Quarter Horse of shopping, good for a quick sprint. Definitely not the Thoroughbred type of shopper who can shop all day. I think it would be a great idea to have a Gift Card store where one could go to buy all the major stores cards in one stop location. But enough of my jibber jabber ( I have had one too many Chai teas). Here are some photos of the tacky lights in our park plus one of our tree in Bearfoot's windshield plus the sunrise in Lake San Marino where I am lucky enough to live for 4 mos. Enjoy!
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
December 5, 2006
A cloudy and cooler day today here in Naples. We used it to advantage by washing the coach. A big job. Ralph washed it with an extension brush while I wiped it dry from the ladder. My arms and shoulders are complaining about the activity but I feel it is good conditioning for my kayaking muscles. I just bought a large dark pink geranium to hang from the wrought iron hook I have stuck in the ground by the door. I think the Christmas decorations I have put up so far look really nice. I left the tree on all night last night. Sebastian and I both go for haircuts tomorrow. Amen! We are both on the same schedule except my hair is cleaner than his. He is like a kid when I brush him. He twists and pulls away in protest. I have to put a headlock on him to do his beard.
We were to go on our first bike trip this a.m. but we decided that old north wind was a'blowin to strongly plus we needed to finish cleaning the coach. Now we think of waxing it. I sent a lovely box of FL oranges to my grandson who is preparing for exams at V.T. He will need all that quick brain energy.
It has been unseasonally hot here but is now normal in the low to mid 70's. I took our quilt off the bed and just had a fleece blanket until last night. But we still sleep with the windows open.
I am forced to post at Calistoga's since we are unable to pick up the wireless signal at the park. I think the Airport card in the Apple is getting weaker. We don't have an Apple store nearby either so it means going to Miami I guess.
We had about 50 people at church services last sunday. We sing many of the old hymns. Many of them remind me of my mother and of my childhood. Poignant memories. There are lots of Canadians here now for the month since it is cheaper for them to come in Dec. We are enjoying getting to know them.
Stay well, be happy and in health dear friends and family.
We were to go on our first bike trip this a.m. but we decided that old north wind was a'blowin to strongly plus we needed to finish cleaning the coach. Now we think of waxing it. I sent a lovely box of FL oranges to my grandson who is preparing for exams at V.T. He will need all that quick brain energy.
It has been unseasonally hot here but is now normal in the low to mid 70's. I took our quilt off the bed and just had a fleece blanket until last night. But we still sleep with the windows open.
I am forced to post at Calistoga's since we are unable to pick up the wireless signal at the park. I think the Airport card in the Apple is getting weaker. We don't have an Apple store nearby either so it means going to Miami I guess.
We had about 50 people at church services last sunday. We sing many of the old hymns. Many of them remind me of my mother and of my childhood. Poignant memories. There are lots of Canadians here now for the month since it is cheaper for them to come in Dec. We are enjoying getting to know them.
Stay well, be happy and in health dear friends and family.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
November 30, 2006
This is a post from the trip down when I didn't have wireless service. But here it is: will post again for today on a different page.
Land of Spanish Moss, pink hibiscus and early morning mists on
the river. Yes, we arrived in Hilton Head, S.C. yesterday noon time. This is one of my favorite places to be. I feel alive and renewed in this climate. Now going out into the traffic is another matter altogether. It seems to get worse each year. But for now, we are tucked safely and quietly away in an rv resort and marina on the river. We are directly across the river from the Pinckney Island Wildlife Reserve. If I had more time here, I would pull Namaskar off the kayak rack and launch her here. Our plan is to purchase another kayak so Ralph can join me on my adventures into the marshlands. For now, we must be content with a long walk on the beach today with our friends who live here year round. They are way down on the southern tip of the Island in Sea Pines Plantation. That is the toe of the shoe. This island is shaped like a shoe or a boot. Sea Pines requires a permit to enter and is one of the favored places to live and play golf.
We left Ashland, VA the day after Thanksgiving after much to do. We were delayed from getting an early start due to mistakes on our part. But finally loaded with kayak and bikes, ladders and dog we were off to parts southern. We had lovely weather and each drove so the trip didn’t seem as long. We made it to Florence, SC over 320 miles and found shelter for the night in a Coast to Coast park. We were very tired when we pulled off I 95 and the directions to the park said it was only 200 yds from the ramp. All we saw was a gas station on the left and a road curving off to the right. Well, we drove right up to a “Wrong Way” sign for I 95. What a revolting development that is! Luckily there was room on the grass to make a partial U turn to get this monster back on the ramp but headed north once again. Eight miles later, we found an exit and turned around for the return trip of 8 miles to do it again. In the meantime, I called for further instructions and discovered that all their signs had been blown apart by a storm and that they were further down the road than the map had said. All was made well but the level of frustration was off the gauge for awhile.
We had a nice thanksgiving day dinner with my family although we missed my grandson who was marching in the parade with the Highty Tighties in Philly. We had more food than we could eat but it tasted so good. We had loaded the kayak from my dear friends house and dropped my car off there for storage on our way to dinner. It was cold and raw. We watched old movies all afternoon. It was a pleasant break for me away from football.
I took pics this morning and will post them. May you all have a lovely Sunday.
Land of Spanish Moss, pink hibiscus and early morning mists on
the river. Yes, we arrived in Hilton Head, S.C. yesterday noon time. This is one of my favorite places to be. I feel alive and renewed in this climate. Now going out into the traffic is another matter altogether. It seems to get worse each year. But for now, we are tucked safely and quietly away in an rv resort and marina on the river. We are directly across the river from the Pinckney Island Wildlife Reserve. If I had more time here, I would pull Namaskar off the kayak rack and launch her here. Our plan is to purchase another kayak so Ralph can join me on my adventures into the marshlands. For now, we must be content with a long walk on the beach today with our friends who live here year round. They are way down on the southern tip of the Island in Sea Pines Plantation. That is the toe of the shoe. This island is shaped like a shoe or a boot. Sea Pines requires a permit to enter and is one of the favored places to live and play golf.
We left Ashland, VA the day after Thanksgiving after much to do. We were delayed from getting an early start due to mistakes on our part. But finally loaded with kayak and bikes, ladders and dog we were off to parts southern. We had lovely weather and each drove so the trip didn’t seem as long. We made it to Florence, SC over 320 miles and found shelter for the night in a Coast to Coast park. We were very tired when we pulled off I 95 and the directions to the park said it was only 200 yds from the ramp. All we saw was a gas station on the left and a road curving off to the right. Well, we drove right up to a “Wrong Way” sign for I 95. What a revolting development that is! Luckily there was room on the grass to make a partial U turn to get this monster back on the ramp but headed north once again. Eight miles later, we found an exit and turned around for the return trip of 8 miles to do it again. In the meantime, I called for further instructions and discovered that all their signs had been blown apart by a storm and that they were further down the road than the map had said. All was made well but the level of frustration was off the gauge for awhile.
We had a nice thanksgiving day dinner with my family although we missed my grandson who was marching in the parade with the Highty Tighties in Philly. We had more food than we could eat but it tasted so good. We had loaded the kayak from my dear friends house and dropped my car off there for storage on our way to dinner. It was cold and raw. We watched old movies all afternoon. It was a pleasant break for me away from football.
I took pics this morning and will post them. May you all have a lovely Sunday.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
November 17, 2006
We left Albany, NY this a.m. at 8:30 under cloudy skys. Now it is 3 p.m. and we are snuggled in a motel in Havre de Grace, MD as it pours and howls outside. Driving on I 95 was miserable so we got off and luckily found a motel that allows dogs and has free WiFi right off the bat. Tomorrow is going to be a better day to finish our journey back "home" to Ashland and Bearfoot IV.
Our trip north has been pleasant visiting with various family members from Scarsdale, NY, to Boston, MA and to Albany, NY. We managed to squeeze a lunch in Saratoga, NY with my sister and husband. While in Boston, I discovered two grandson's were visiting with their half Sis and their brother who lives there so we had a great reunion breakfast with the Dempsey gang in Somerville, MA. Ralph had his tests done and has to return to Albany the end of April '07 for more testing. I am not sure how this will all impact our plans for our westward adventure but I trust it will happen when the time is right.
Our new brown leather magic bed sofa awaits us in Ashland, VA and will be installed on Tues. We have eyeglasses to purchase, prescriptions to fill, wills to update, a couple of massages to enjoy and lots of turkey to eat this coming week. My grandson from VA Tech is going to be home for the weekend and since he will not be home for Thanksgiving, I look forward to this visit. He is in the Highty Tighties and they will be playing in the Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia on the 23rd. Then he is whisked back to campus for the big rivalry game between VA Tech and UVA. No tickets available for that one.
We will be rolling down I 95 on the 24th God willing and the creek don't rise.
Remember, "Life is a journey not a destination".
Our trip north has been pleasant visiting with various family members from Scarsdale, NY, to Boston, MA and to Albany, NY. We managed to squeeze a lunch in Saratoga, NY with my sister and husband. While in Boston, I discovered two grandson's were visiting with their half Sis and their brother who lives there so we had a great reunion breakfast with the Dempsey gang in Somerville, MA. Ralph had his tests done and has to return to Albany the end of April '07 for more testing. I am not sure how this will all impact our plans for our westward adventure but I trust it will happen when the time is right.
Our new brown leather magic bed sofa awaits us in Ashland, VA and will be installed on Tues. We have eyeglasses to purchase, prescriptions to fill, wills to update, a couple of massages to enjoy and lots of turkey to eat this coming week. My grandson from VA Tech is going to be home for the weekend and since he will not be home for Thanksgiving, I look forward to this visit. He is in the Highty Tighties and they will be playing in the Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia on the 23rd. Then he is whisked back to campus for the big rivalry game between VA Tech and UVA. No tickets available for that one.
We will be rolling down I 95 on the 24th God willing and the creek don't rise.
Remember, "Life is a journey not a destination".
Friday, November 10, 2006
November 10, 2006
Greetings blog readers who are wondering where I am and why I have not been in touch. I am in Scarsdale, NY visiting family. I have been able to receive your emails while here but not able to return any mail for some reason. We plan to go to the Boston area tomorrow and with any luck, all my replies will go out in one swoop of the cyber key. That is my plan anyway. The weather was very rainy the first day here but temps have been mild and in the 60's. The last two days the sun has shone brightly and although a bit on the cool side, it is still fine. We have been out walking daily. Saw a movie last night in White Plains. It was a very violent movie and resulted in my covering my eyes and ears for much of it. The name of it was the Departed and even though it was filled with famous, some favorite stars, I don't recommend it for the sensitve.
Last weekend I visited VA Tech for parents weekend. Such a beautiful campus! I will attach some photos of the review of the cadets. My grandson was in the band of course and looked wonderful in his full length coat and uniform. I hope to see him before Thanksgiving again back in Virginia. He and the Highty Tighties will be playing in the thanksgiving Day parade in Philly this year. I hope it is televised.
Sebastian is enjoying his visit here since there are two young girls to play with. One of the girls is infatuated with him. She remarked that his new bed was quite comfortable. I would have liked to have caught her in the bed with the camera. She is cute as a button.
We head for Boston tomorrow, Friday. This family has 3 youngsters and a small Westy who Sebastian has met before. He will be a happy pup. I think he sometimes is bored with us two oldsters even though he is not young at 11 years. He has lots of energy.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
September 21, 2006
Officially it is autumn. Ralph, Sebastian and I are parked in Ashland, VA . Journeys in and of themselves are always interesting, sometimes challenging and always rewarding even though we may not recognize the rewards for a time. This recent journey from the Thousand Islands was certainly challenging and definitely rewarding. Thanks to my sister and her husband, I was able to move Bearfoot to Hershey, PA. My eye condition has temporarily worsened as it does periodically rendering my driving impossible. They most graciously consented to help me out. The trip down from Syracuse, NY was rainy and foggy over the PA mountains. Ralph and I led our small convoy. Riding shotgun is a new experience for me. I find it quite pleasant actually. It is nice to be able to get up, move around, get drinks and snacks as well as use the head. Don’t get me wrong though, as soon as I can drive again, I will be eager to do so. We attended the Hershey RV show for a few days. While wandering through the many coaches that were there on display, we found one in particular that felt like home to us. It is a new design with the kitchen/dinette in the front. The tv is in the back of the living room mid-ship so to speak. There are two sofas, one on each side, both brown leather, the cabinets are a warm cherry finish – it felt like home. Bearfoot has transformed for the 4th time. “Chapter 4”. We started, Bashey and I, with a fifth wheel trailer, then the Airstream Land Yacht, the Dolphin and now the Monaco Endeavor. Since life is always dynamic and changing , it is quite fitting that our journey as well as our mission should change. I don’t know where this chapter will take us but will certainly keep you posted.
It was not without grief that I left our Dolphin Bearfoot coach. It has been a safe, cozy home for Bashey and me for almost a year. It represented a way of life and independence for me as a mature woman. But in keeping with my philosophy on life, I believe we move along our paths sometimes alone (in my case accompanied by a grand dog) and sometimes with others, either a group as in a family, or with a mate or friend. At this point in my life, having a partner is a joy as well as a comfort for me. I have been molded by Eight years of independence. Adjusting to having a partner is my new challenge as well as a personal goal. The many years as a healer and counselor of others now seems to be turned inward for a time. This is the dance of life – we will learn the steps, there will be times when we step on each others toes in the process but we will dance in beauty.
One bit of news – my lap top has finally died it seems therefore I am using Ralph’s Mac (perhaps that too is symbolic). I haven’t quite gotten it down pat yet but will shortly. Finding inexpensive wireless is the biggest challenge we full timers have. We rely on it to pay our bills, check our bank and credit card balances and communicate with loved ones and friends. Please “bear” with me as I try to place these posts. Pics are also a soon to be possibility since I know all my readers enjoy those. Have a grand autumn day. We will be here until next Thursday and then off to Niagara Falls, NY for a few days of coach check up.
It was not without grief that I left our Dolphin Bearfoot coach. It has been a safe, cozy home for Bashey and me for almost a year. It represented a way of life and independence for me as a mature woman. But in keeping with my philosophy on life, I believe we move along our paths sometimes alone (in my case accompanied by a grand dog) and sometimes with others, either a group as in a family, or with a mate or friend. At this point in my life, having a partner is a joy as well as a comfort for me. I have been molded by Eight years of independence. Adjusting to having a partner is my new challenge as well as a personal goal. The many years as a healer and counselor of others now seems to be turned inward for a time. This is the dance of life – we will learn the steps, there will be times when we step on each others toes in the process but we will dance in beauty.
One bit of news – my lap top has finally died it seems therefore I am using Ralph’s Mac (perhaps that too is symbolic). I haven’t quite gotten it down pat yet but will shortly. Finding inexpensive wireless is the biggest challenge we full timers have. We rely on it to pay our bills, check our bank and credit card balances and communicate with loved ones and friends. Please “bear” with me as I try to place these posts. Pics are also a soon to be possibility since I know all my readers enjoy those. Have a grand autumn day. We will be here until next Thursday and then off to Niagara Falls, NY for a few days of coach check up.
October 31, 2006
Happy Halloween friends! We are happy to be back in Ashland, VA this night when the veils are thin. Since we left Ashland over a month ago, we have experienced a wide range of weather. Sadly most of it has been nasty but the last 3 days in Oriental, NC have been incredibly beautiful and it seems Virginia has been enjoy the the same sunshine and warmth. As we drove up I 95 and entered Virginia, we even found diesel fuel for $2.23. We saw gasoline prices at under $2.00 but I betcha that post election, you will see the fuel prices go back up.
We will be here for a week trying to sell my car, seeing the dentist and catching up with my family then we leave our cozy home to drive to New York to visit with Ralph’s family, Ralph’s cardiologist and my family in Albany. Sebastian will go with us. The coach will stay here plugged into electricity to keep our refrigerator going. We should be back here by the 16th or 17th unless Ralph needs surgery. Thanksgiving will be spent in Montpelier, VA with my family. The day after we are on the road for FL.
This weekend I get to go over to VA Tech for parents weekend to see my grandson. I can’t wait to see him. The Highty Tighties are going to march and play in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade this year. Watch for it on TV.
I was very happy to spend a day in NC with my dear friend, Judi. She came over to our campsite and we shared lunch and good conversation. It was a lovely warm day so we were able to sit outside for awhile. She is an inspiration to many.
Oriental always feels like home. We walked all over town each day and stopped on one of our walks to visit with some old friends. We ended up having dinner togther that night. Our first night there included a pig picking down on the waterfront. We were towards the end of the line and really didn’t have much of a choice of food. It was an experience since many people were in our line with half empty plates going back for seconds. They did not receive a warm welcome in our line. The fishing fleet was in town so the harbor was very picturesque. Lots of new condos there but we didn’t see many people (except at the pig pickin;). There are hundreds of sailboats in Oriental. Actually there are more boats than people. When I lived there back in the 80’s and 90’s, there were only 800 people. Probably a few more now
We came over the great Smokies and were on our way to Orienal when our fancy passenger chair with the recliner and foot rest quit working and it was open blocking our doorway. It appeared there was a short somewhere. Luckily, I have a friend in oriental who is one of the most talented electrical engineers I have ever known. He came over on Monday and within an hour and a half had the short fixed and the chair working again. So much for gadgets.
More later as we loop around the east coast.
We will be here for a week trying to sell my car, seeing the dentist and catching up with my family then we leave our cozy home to drive to New York to visit with Ralph’s family, Ralph’s cardiologist and my family in Albany. Sebastian will go with us. The coach will stay here plugged into electricity to keep our refrigerator going. We should be back here by the 16th or 17th unless Ralph needs surgery. Thanksgiving will be spent in Montpelier, VA with my family. The day after we are on the road for FL.
This weekend I get to go over to VA Tech for parents weekend to see my grandson. I can’t wait to see him. The Highty Tighties are going to march and play in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade this year. Watch for it on TV.
I was very happy to spend a day in NC with my dear friend, Judi. She came over to our campsite and we shared lunch and good conversation. It was a lovely warm day so we were able to sit outside for awhile. She is an inspiration to many.
Oriental always feels like home. We walked all over town each day and stopped on one of our walks to visit with some old friends. We ended up having dinner togther that night. Our first night there included a pig picking down on the waterfront. We were towards the end of the line and really didn’t have much of a choice of food. It was an experience since many people were in our line with half empty plates going back for seconds. They did not receive a warm welcome in our line. The fishing fleet was in town so the harbor was very picturesque. Lots of new condos there but we didn’t see many people (except at the pig pickin;). There are hundreds of sailboats in Oriental. Actually there are more boats than people. When I lived there back in the 80’s and 90’s, there were only 800 people. Probably a few more now
We came over the great Smokies and were on our way to Orienal when our fancy passenger chair with the recliner and foot rest quit working and it was open blocking our doorway. It appeared there was a short somewhere. Luckily, I have a friend in oriental who is one of the most talented electrical engineers I have ever known. He came over on Monday and within an hour and a half had the short fixed and the chair working again. So much for gadgets.
More later as we loop around the east coast.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
October 14, 2006
Today would have been my mom's birthday had she lived. She was quite a gal!
We survived the blizzard here in Niagara Falls/Buffalo. No electricity, food or water for many people. Very difficult situation for many people. We were cozy with our own generator. We have finally gotten the work all done on the coach and will be on the road tomorrow a.m. God willin' and the creek don't rise! That actually could happen since there is a flood warning. Melting snow and heavy rains prevail. I will post some pics of the storm soon. Just haven't gotten them downloaded yet.
Stay well and safe.
We survived the blizzard here in Niagara Falls/Buffalo. No electricity, food or water for many people. Very difficult situation for many people. We were cozy with our own generator. We have finally gotten the work all done on the coach and will be on the road tomorrow a.m. God willin' and the creek don't rise! That actually could happen since there is a flood warning. Melting snow and heavy rains prevail. I will post some pics of the storm soon. Just haven't gotten them downloaded yet.
Stay well and safe.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
October 12, 2006
I am sitting (stiffly) in Wegmon's Food Store in Niagara Falls where they have free WiFi. It is very cold, rainy and windy outside. Possible snow showers today. I injured my back about 4 days ago. I have been spending most of my time flat on my back propped with pillows here and there living on several homeopathic remedies and tylenol if those don't work. I had a massage a day or so ago and was pain free for a short time. I feel pretty confident that it is purely a muscular thing and will just take time to heal. I haven't had any issues with my back for about 30 years. Back then, I did have periodic severe back and leg pain but through my energy work, I was able to heal. Now I am doing the same thing. Everything repeats itself doesn't it. We have been working since 9/19 to pack, simplify and rid ourselves of a lot of accumulated stuff in two motor coaches. It has been very trying to say the least but is pretty much over now. The work that needed to be done on new coach is almost finished and we should be rolling southward tomorrow down along I 90 and Lake Erie. We will stop in PA somewhere but want to do some serious "southing" before we quit. I won't be driving until my back is better. I did get to drive a couple of hours on the trip up north.
We still don't have our large leather sofa, a new radio/dvd player and an awning (we added) over one of the windows but this dealer has arranged for McGeorge of Ashland, Va to put in these items. We will pick the stuff up the first week in Nov. I can't wait to get out of the north country. 89 in Orlando today - 40 with windchill of 20 in Buffalo today. We do love our new home however. It is cozy and homey. Bash and I have been sleeping and resting in the former Bearfoot, the Dolphin, all week since it is parked next to the Holiday Rambler. the furnace is on and the bathroom works. I think Bash is totally confused.
This Wegmon's is wonderful - to all you Ukrop's fans - it is very similar but larger and even better. Hard to believe but it is. I could move right in here.
We are both tired and frazzled. Looking forward to just hanging out somewhere, napping, reading and catching up on writing. I am looking forward to cooking at home. Can you believe I said that??
Keep us in your thoughts as we burn up the road south.
We still don't have our large leather sofa, a new radio/dvd player and an awning (we added) over one of the windows but this dealer has arranged for McGeorge of Ashland, Va to put in these items. We will pick the stuff up the first week in Nov. I can't wait to get out of the north country. 89 in Orlando today - 40 with windchill of 20 in Buffalo today. We do love our new home however. It is cozy and homey. Bash and I have been sleeping and resting in the former Bearfoot, the Dolphin, all week since it is parked next to the Holiday Rambler. the furnace is on and the bathroom works. I think Bash is totally confused.
This Wegmon's is wonderful - to all you Ukrop's fans - it is very similar but larger and even better. Hard to believe but it is. I could move right in here.
We are both tired and frazzled. Looking forward to just hanging out somewhere, napping, reading and catching up on writing. I am looking forward to cooking at home. Can you believe I said that??
Keep us in your thoughts as we burn up the road south.
Monday, October 02, 2006
October 2, 2006
September 29, 2006
We are sitting in a K-Mart parking lot tonight in Chambersburg, PA just off I 81. We left Ashland, VA this morning with clear blue skies after a night of rain. It is quite cool however. I had to wear a jacket today to go across the street to buy a few things for supper.
Sebastian and I had never ridden in the new Bearfoot before today. It was a good ride except that Sebastian was very nervous. He kept trying to climb into my lap. He even got stuck under the footrest of my seat. Finally, he went way back into the bedroom and crawled into bed. I am not certain what the basis of his fear was except possibly the sound of the air brakes. I felt sorry for him. After we stopped and he went for a walk he was fine.
I feel like we are going the wrong way. This going into the colder weather just doesn’t seem right. It was very lovely in Virginia. I hope the dealership can get the work done quickly so we can dip south.
As you can see by this posted date, we have moved on a found WiFi. We are in Niagara Falls, NY now and enjoying a lovely warm fall day. Nights have been cold though, 40's. Wearing our winter clothing seems strange. Dealer says we should be on our way by Friday. I hope to go to the Falls while here. I was there a couple of times but over 25 yrs. ago. Also want to see the Knox Albright Gallery at the SUNY campus. Ralph has family here too.
I have tried to post photos on this Mac but to no avail. I will go into the Mac store and have them show me how. I do like the computer though.
Found this quote which I really like - "Nothing is dead for sure, for it is I not my bones that endure". It was taken from the book, To Have Succeeded".
I am beginning to feel alive once again now that we are settling in. Still have more stuff to deal with but think we have it under control. Dealing with your stuff is a challenge like no other. Some difficult decisions must be made that seems to grate on your very soul but you do it and then move on, lighter and better for it.
Keep sloughing off your stuff friends.
As y
We are sitting in a K-Mart parking lot tonight in Chambersburg, PA just off I 81. We left Ashland, VA this morning with clear blue skies after a night of rain. It is quite cool however. I had to wear a jacket today to go across the street to buy a few things for supper.
Sebastian and I had never ridden in the new Bearfoot before today. It was a good ride except that Sebastian was very nervous. He kept trying to climb into my lap. He even got stuck under the footrest of my seat. Finally, he went way back into the bedroom and crawled into bed. I am not certain what the basis of his fear was except possibly the sound of the air brakes. I felt sorry for him. After we stopped and he went for a walk he was fine.
I feel like we are going the wrong way. This going into the colder weather just doesn’t seem right. It was very lovely in Virginia. I hope the dealership can get the work done quickly so we can dip south.
As you can see by this posted date, we have moved on a found WiFi. We are in Niagara Falls, NY now and enjoying a lovely warm fall day. Nights have been cold though, 40's. Wearing our winter clothing seems strange. Dealer says we should be on our way by Friday. I hope to go to the Falls while here. I was there a couple of times but over 25 yrs. ago. Also want to see the Knox Albright Gallery at the SUNY campus. Ralph has family here too.
I have tried to post photos on this Mac but to no avail. I will go into the Mac store and have them show me how. I do like the computer though.
Found this quote which I really like - "Nothing is dead for sure, for it is I not my bones that endure". It was taken from the book, To Have Succeeded".
I am beginning to feel alive once again now that we are settling in. Still have more stuff to deal with but think we have it under control. Dealing with your stuff is a challenge like no other. Some difficult decisions must be made that seems to grate on your very soul but you do it and then move on, lighter and better for it.
Keep sloughing off your stuff friends.
As y
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Monday, September 25, 2006
September 25, 2006
Officially it is autumn. Ralph, Sebastian and I are parked in Ashland, VA . Journeys in and of themselves are always interesting, sometimes challenging and always rewarding even though we may not recognize the rewards for a time. This recent journey from the Thousand Islands was certainly challenging and definitely rewarding. Thanks to my sister and her husband, I was able to move Bearfoot to Hershey, PA. My eye condition has temporarily worsened as it does periodically rendering my driving impossible. They most graciously consented to help me out. The trip down from Syracuse, NY was rainy and foggy over the PA mountains. Ralph and I led our small convoy. Riding shotgun is a new experience for me. I find it quite pleasant actually. It is nice to be able to get up, move around, get drinks and snacks as well as use the head. Don’t get me wrong though, as soon as I can drive again, I will be eager to do so. We attended the Hershey RV show for a few days. While wandering through the many coaches that were there on display, we found one in particular that felt like home to us. It is a new design with the kitchen/dinette in the front. The tv is in the back of the living room mid-ship so to speak. There are two sofas, one on each side, both brown leather, the cabinets are a warm cherry finish – it felt like home. Bearfoot has transformed for the 4th time. “Chapter 4”. We started, Bashey and I, with a fifth wheel trailer, then the Airstream Land Yacht, the Dolphin and now the Monaco Endeavor. Since life is always dynamic and changing , it is quite fitting that our journey as well as our mission should change. I don’t know where this chapter will take us but will certainly keep you posted.
It was not without grief that I left our Dolphin Bearfoot coach. It has been a safe, cozy home for Bashey and me for almost a year. It represented a way of life and independence for me as a mature woman. But in keeping with my philosophy on life, I believe we move along our paths sometimes alone (in my case accompanied by a grand dog) and sometimes with others, either a group as in a family, or with a mate or friend. At this point in my life, having a partner is a joy as well as a comfort for me. I have been molded by Eight years of independence. Adjusting to having a partner is my new challenge as well as a personal goal. The many years as a healer and counselor of others now seems to be turned inward for a time. This is the dance of life – we will learn the steps, there will be times when we step on each others toes in the process but we will dance in beauty.
One bit of news – my lap top has finally died it seems therefore I am using Ralph’s Mac (perhaps that too is symbolic). I haven’t quite gotten it down pat yet but will shortly. Finding inexpensive wireless is the biggest challenge we full timers have. We rely on it to pay our bills, check our bank and credit card balances and communicate with loved ones and friends. Please “bear” with me as I try to place these posts. Pics are also a soon to be possibility since I know all my readers enjoy those. Have a grand autumn day. We will be here until next Thursday and then off to Niagara Falls, NY for a few days of coach check up.
It was not without grief that I left our Dolphin Bearfoot coach. It has been a safe, cozy home for Bashey and me for almost a year. It represented a way of life and independence for me as a mature woman. But in keeping with my philosophy on life, I believe we move along our paths sometimes alone (in my case accompanied by a grand dog) and sometimes with others, either a group as in a family, or with a mate or friend. At this point in my life, having a partner is a joy as well as a comfort for me. I have been molded by Eight years of independence. Adjusting to having a partner is my new challenge as well as a personal goal. The many years as a healer and counselor of others now seems to be turned inward for a time. This is the dance of life – we will learn the steps, there will be times when we step on each others toes in the process but we will dance in beauty.
One bit of news – my lap top has finally died it seems therefore I am using Ralph’s Mac (perhaps that too is symbolic). I haven’t quite gotten it down pat yet but will shortly. Finding inexpensive wireless is the biggest challenge we full timers have. We rely on it to pay our bills, check our bank and credit card balances and communicate with loved ones and friends. Please “bear” with me as I try to place these posts. Pics are also a soon to be possibility since I know all my readers enjoy those. Have a grand autumn day. We will be here until next Thursday and then off to Niagara Falls, NY for a few days of coach check up.
September 25, 2006
Officially it is autumn. Ralph, Sebastian and I are parked in Ashland, VA . Journeys in and of themselves are always interesting, sometimes challenging and always rewarding even though we may not recognize the rewards for a time. This recent journey from the Thousand Islands was certainly challenging and definitely rewarding. Thanks to my sister and her husband, I was able to move Bearfoot to Hershey, PA. My eye condition has temporarily worsened as it does periodically rendering my driving impossible. They most graciously consented to help me out. The trip down from Syracuse, NY was rainy and foggy over the PA mountains. Ralph and I led our small convoy. Riding shotgun is a new experience for me. I find it quite pleasant actually. It is nice to be able to get up, move around, get drinks and snacks as well as use the head. Don’t get me wrong though, as soon as I can drive again, I will be eager to do so. We attended the Hershey RV show for a few days. While wandering through the many coaches that were there on display, we found one in particular that felt like home to us. It is a new design with the kitchen/dinette in the front. The tv is in the back of the living room mid-ship so to speak. There are two sofas, one on each side, both brown leather, the cabinets are a warm cherry finish – it felt like home. Bearfoot has transformed for the 4th time. “Chapter 4”. We started, Bashey and I, with a fifth wheel trailer, then the Airstream Land Yacht, the Dolphin and now the Monaco Endeavor. Since life is always dynamic and changing , it is quite fitting that our journey as well as our mission should change. I don’t know where this chapter will take us but will certainly keep you posted.
It was not without grief that I left our Dolphin Bearfoot coach. It has been a safe, cozy home for Bashey and me for almost a year. It represented a way of life and independence for me as a mature woman. But in keeping with my philosophy on life, I believe we move along our paths sometimes alone (in my case accompanied by a grand dog) and sometimes with others, either a group as in a family, or with a mate or friend. At this point in my life, having a partner is a joy as well as a comfort for me. I have been molded by Eight years of independence. Adjusting to having a partner is my new challenge as well as a personal goal. The many years as a healer and counselor of others now seems to be turned inward for a time. This is the dance of life – we will learn the steps, there will be times when we step on each others toes in the process but we will dance in beauty.
One bit of news – my lap top has finally died it seems therefore I am using Ralph’s Mac (perhaps that too is symbolic). I haven’t quite gotten it down pat yet but will shortly. Finding inexpensive wireless is the biggest challenge we full timers have. We rely on it to pay our bills, check our bank and credit card balances and communicate with loved ones and friends. Please “bear” with me as I try to place these posts. Pics are also a soon to be possibility since I know all my readers enjoy those. Have a grand autumn day. We will be here until next Thursday and then off to Niagara Falls, NY for a few days of coach check up.
It was not without grief that I left our Dolphin Bearfoot coach. It has been a safe, cozy home for Bashey and me for almost a year. It represented a way of life and independence for me as a mature woman. But in keeping with my philosophy on life, I believe we move along our paths sometimes alone (in my case accompanied by a grand dog) and sometimes with others, either a group as in a family, or with a mate or friend. At this point in my life, having a partner is a joy as well as a comfort for me. I have been molded by Eight years of independence. Adjusting to having a partner is my new challenge as well as a personal goal. The many years as a healer and counselor of others now seems to be turned inward for a time. This is the dance of life – we will learn the steps, there will be times when we step on each others toes in the process but we will dance in beauty.
One bit of news – my lap top has finally died it seems therefore I am using Ralph’s Mac (perhaps that too is symbolic). I haven’t quite gotten it down pat yet but will shortly. Finding inexpensive wireless is the biggest challenge we full timers have. We rely on it to pay our bills, check our bank and credit card balances and communicate with loved ones and friends. Please “bear” with me as I try to place these posts. Pics are also a soon to be possibility since I know all my readers enjoy those. Have a grand autumn day. We will be here until next Thursday and then off to Niagara Falls, NY for a few days of coach check up.
Monday, September 11, 2006
September 11, 2001
We wake up to witness with deep sadness the reading of the names from the 9/11 tragedy in NYC.
I am writing once again from the 1000 Islands area. We discovered quite by accident that we can pick up wireless internet from the storage area where the rv’s are currently stored. We have been enjoying the company of my sister, her husband and their dog, Rosie. The weather, although cooler, has been perfect. Crisp, cool, sunny days and cold nights. We have had a fire in the fireplace almost nightly. We have been packing and sorting both coaches, preparing to leave on Wednesday this week for parts south. We are trying to move the things from my coach that we will need for our trip to FL to pick up the new coach the end of this month. From there we will tour westward and northward, arriving back in VA before Nov. 15th. My Bearfoot will go into storage in VA if it doesn’t sell at the Hershey RV show next week. I have not been able to drive much of late since my eye disease has returned and I require treatment. My brother-in-law and sister have graciously offered to drive Bearfoot to Hershey in convoy with us. They will then rent a car for the return trip. I think I can drive from Hershey to Richmond if the coach doesn’t sell. I am sad to have to sell Bearfoot but as before there will be another one with a somewhat different mission as yet to be revealed.
Today we took a lovely boat trip northward on the Seaway winding our way through Canadian waters roundabout stopping at Boldt Castle and Boat house on Heart Island in Alexandria Bay. We picnicked aboard the Cobalt docked at the Castle, nibbling on homemade chicken salad with champagne grapes and homemade rye bread. Fabulous!
They allow visitors to tour on your own which I enjoy since I like to read posters and look at the photos and displays. What a treat seeing the work that is being done to restore this exquisite estate.
The other day we visited the antique boat museum in Clayton, NY. Wonderfully restored early 20th century yachts as well as some 19th century boats. We also toured La Ducheese which was Mr. Boldt’s private houseboat (it is like a floating mansion). After his death, it went into disrepair and sunk only to be salvaged and restored by Mr. McNally of Rand McNally fame. What an era and way of life these castles and yachts respresent. the attached photo is of the VA Tech Band at their first football game a week or so ago. My grandson is in the photo.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
August 23, 2006
Albany, New York - We are visiting with my daughter and her family. We camped in Averill Park, NY which is about a half hour from here. Not such a great campground but we are not there much anyway. the weather has been grand this week. We went to the washington County Fair all day yesterday. Stayed for the Burners UK concert which was quite good. They have a dyamite sax player. Lots of Credence Clearwater, Earth Wind and Fire and Chicago type music. there are pictures in the archive on this website of last year at this same fair. I will post some new ones as soon as I download them to this computer. I am using Ralph's Apple since mine is on the fritz again. I am trying to make it last since I don't want to buy a new one. It is the battery which costs $175. We watched the Gymkana and the lawn mower tractor pull. Looked at some spectacular cattle and horses, a few swine and some goats. We enjoyed some "nutricious" fair food too. One thing we did note, is that the prices of everything at the fair have risen dramatically.
I finally got a decent haircut this morning and Ralph is going to a cardiologist here in Albany this afternoon for a second opinion. Later toay, we are going to a polo match and will enjoy a tailgate picnic. My daughter is a fabulous cook. she is making special chicken and other goodies. We bought some sparkling fruit juice and special cookies for dessert.
My equipment seems to be falling apart all of a sudden. My main TV in Bearfoot died from what I think was a power surge. ralph took all the supports etc down and he along with my daughter, grandson and a neighbor took it down, put it in the car and we delivered it to a tv repair place. It better be done on Thurs. since we will be taking off on Sat. for Wog Island. My camera zoom has quit and is unrepairable. I don't want any more equipment failures.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
St. Lawrence real estate
Singer Castle Gardens
and FDR Hydro Electric Plant also the paddle wheel of our tour boat. Enjoy!
Monday, August 07, 2006
Aug. 7, 2006
We visited Singer Castle (heir to the Singer Sewing machine co.) saturday out on the St. Lawrence River. I have included some photos. What an incredible place! It was copied from a early 16 century English castle and has many secret passage ways like a rabbit warren throughout. It is now owned by a group of German investors who are in the process of restoring it. The part of the story I like is that a Mrs. Bourne from away heard about the castle and upon investigating found that it was her great grandfather's. She didn't know it had existed until just recently but was able to come here to visit. Her families books are still in the library at the castle. What a thrill for her to explore a part of her family history so vividly.
We also went up to the Eisenhower locks and watched some huge ships lock through both east and west. The FDR hydro electric dam is now closed to the public due to 9/11 but there is a nice museum across the river from it and one gets to watch a film. Disappointing, but seems to be the case in many parts of the country. Ralph was lucky since he went through the actual dam and power plant some years ago when people could be trusted. We were camped out up in Massena. We drove into the Mohawk Reservation (didn't go to the casino), stopped at a gift shop but the prices were very high. This country up here is lovely now, green and lush but I cannot imagine being here after the frost and in the cold weather.
We are back on Wog Island now, thankfully. It is hot but there is a stiff breeze blowing through the house. In fact, papers need to be anchored safely.
Sebastian is going for a grooming on Wed. He is a mess. The worst hair case since I have had him. I have taken the scissors to his thick, wooly, snarled hair so now he looks rough. Poor guy. I bought clippers thinking I would do it myself. Couldn't get them to work on his back so I used them on his head. Zip! the hair was gone and he was bald. I feel badly for him. I am not going to try that again.
I will post some pics of the great tour we took on sunday of both sides, Canadian and American, of the St. Lawrence River. If you have never explored this region, plan to do so. It is truly lovely. We didn't go into Boldt Castle since we are saving that tour for my sister and her husband.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
August 3, 2006
We had a storm here in the Thousand Islands last night to almost equal the hurricanes I have sat out while living in NC. It was a "doozey". The light show was particularly spectacular like something from Star Wars. The wind blew easily 60 mph steadily all night long. Of course, when you are on a very small rock and the waves crash up around the island, it is a bit frightening. I read until things quieted down a bit. I was reading a great book about Medieval England entitled Catherine. It was very exciting. Ralph likes fresh air and he certainly had a wind tunnel effect going last eve. It is a bit cooler today but still very warm. But I guess that is the case everywhere right now. We always have a brisk wind blowing.
I brought my kayak across the river the other day but haven't been out on it again due to the wind and waves. There is a strong 5-6 knt current here too. Getting in and out of my boat over at the island is a challenge since the docks inside the boat house are not set up for a boater sitting so low in the water in a very tender boat. My boat whose name is Namaskar will flip me out so fast I don't have time to hold my nose. It is a balancing act.
We are going up to Masena tomorrow for a couple of days with the MH to check out the Eisenhower locks. Since traversing the locks on the Hudson River several times with a 36' sailboat and a 40' trawler, I have been fascinated by the lock system. Seeing these giant ships in them will be a photographers delight. We also plan to tour a couple of island mansions and maybe have tea in one of them.
Sebastian looks rather ragged since I have been unable to find a groomer for him. I attempted to do it myself with newly purchased clippers and scissors but couldn't even make headway in that thick hair of his. I did clip his front leg with the scissors but don't dare do more than one leg a day. He is very impatient and restless with me then I find my back is about to break. I did clip his forehead and realize that it is too close so have been putting sun block on there until it grows out a bit. He is a funny looking guy right now.
May you be blessed.
I brought my kayak across the river the other day but haven't been out on it again due to the wind and waves. There is a strong 5-6 knt current here too. Getting in and out of my boat over at the island is a challenge since the docks inside the boat house are not set up for a boater sitting so low in the water in a very tender boat. My boat whose name is Namaskar will flip me out so fast I don't have time to hold my nose. It is a balancing act.
We are going up to Masena tomorrow for a couple of days with the MH to check out the Eisenhower locks. Since traversing the locks on the Hudson River several times with a 36' sailboat and a 40' trawler, I have been fascinated by the lock system. Seeing these giant ships in them will be a photographers delight. We also plan to tour a couple of island mansions and maybe have tea in one of them.
Sebastian looks rather ragged since I have been unable to find a groomer for him. I attempted to do it myself with newly purchased clippers and scissors but couldn't even make headway in that thick hair of his. I did clip his front leg with the scissors but don't dare do more than one leg a day. He is very impatient and restless with me then I find my back is about to break. I did clip his forehead and realize that it is too close so have been putting sun block on there until it grows out a bit. He is a funny looking guy right now.
May you be blessed.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
July 29, 2006
Off to Albany, NY today to spend a couple of days with my youngest daughter and her family. We are going to a restaurant tonight with a famous tv chef to celebrate my son-in-law's birthday. Trying to pack up the stuff we will need for two weeks up at the Thousand Island house is a challenge. We have had a busy time here in Vermont with my family. The weather has been grand although extremely hot for this area. We haven't walked or biked as much as we planned due to heat and bugs. We have been able to connect with grandchildren though. Back here in two weeks for a couple of weeks. Time is flying by as usual and soon we will be "winging" southward to VA and then on westerly.
No bites on this Bearfoot coach yet. It is such a nice home. I hope someone will take advantage of it.
This is a short post since I have to pack and move stuff to my car. We will leave Bearfoot right here in the yard at my son's until we return. I am fortunate to have a safe clean place to leave it where I can leave the ac on and the refrig on.
Next post will have some new photos.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
July 25, 2006
Back to Pawlet parked in my son's yard. We tried to leave Florence on Sunday but the ignition key to Bearfoot had mysteriously disappeared and was no where to be found. We called in a locksmith, got a key code from the Workhorse Chassis people that turned out to be incorrect. The locksmith worked for 6 hours trying to find just the right fit for a key. Finally, he gave up and went home. I called Workhorse again and they apologized telling me they had given us the wrong code. The correct code was given and the keys made monday morning. We left in a hurry since my daughter's family was all sick with a stomach virus that seemed to be very contagious.
I took the long way to Pawlet via Rt. 4 to 22A through Granville, NY and then Rt. 30. Rt 133 to West Rutland last week was so overgrown with trees that Bearfoot taking hits to the roof and sides all the way up. It is a pretty ride up that way though through Middletown Springs and Ira. We stopped for lunch yesterday in Bomoseen and then went through Fair Haven in order to hit the grocery store.
Today we are going back to the grocery store to pick up food for dinner. We told my daughter-in-law that we would prepare dinner for them this week since they have been keeping Bearfoot for me for over a month. They have some steaks out, we added ours to theirs and will dine on grilled steak, baked potatoes, fresh VT sweet corn and a salad tonight. Tomorrow looks like rain. I must make a trip to the mall to find a dress for my nephews wedding. Think tomorrow is a good day for it. Sadly, I haven't been biking since it has been hot here but Ralph and I have been walking as much as possible. He is unable to ride his bike at this time but hopefully that will change. Doctors want him to take it easy for awhile.
We hope to get up to the Fair Haven Inn one night this week for dinner. Good friends own it and the chef is an old friend. It is always a pleasure to dine there. The food is spectacular.
We were awakened this a.m. early by a little granddaughter. She was told not to knock unless there were signs of us being awake. Well, as soon as Bash heard her coming he began to bark so I guess that was sign enough. It was a late night last eve since we picniced with my family on their boat on Bomoseen. Then enjoyed a lovely cruise around that beautiful lake after dark. I rode in a tube behind the speed boat with my granddaughter who is 6 yrs. old. It was quite scary at first but was fun. I have never done anything like that before in my life. Hitting the wake from the boat was most thrilling. My neck is a bit stiff this morning from the bumpy ride but I would do it again.
Gotta go finish the laundry now and then off to the grocery store. Keep your life as simple as possible for the next few weeks, rest often, do nice things for yourself and those you love, give to others less fortunate and as St. Francis said, "Pray incessantly". These are challenging times for all of us right now. Some are being challenged physically, others mentally or spiritually. Stay with it and Pray for Balance and Harmony on Earth.
Sending you all Light and Love from Bearfoot -
D.
I took the long way to Pawlet via Rt. 4 to 22A through Granville, NY and then Rt. 30. Rt 133 to West Rutland last week was so overgrown with trees that Bearfoot taking hits to the roof and sides all the way up. It is a pretty ride up that way though through Middletown Springs and Ira. We stopped for lunch yesterday in Bomoseen and then went through Fair Haven in order to hit the grocery store.
Today we are going back to the grocery store to pick up food for dinner. We told my daughter-in-law that we would prepare dinner for them this week since they have been keeping Bearfoot for me for over a month. They have some steaks out, we added ours to theirs and will dine on grilled steak, baked potatoes, fresh VT sweet corn and a salad tonight. Tomorrow looks like rain. I must make a trip to the mall to find a dress for my nephews wedding. Think tomorrow is a good day for it. Sadly, I haven't been biking since it has been hot here but Ralph and I have been walking as much as possible. He is unable to ride his bike at this time but hopefully that will change. Doctors want him to take it easy for awhile.
We hope to get up to the Fair Haven Inn one night this week for dinner. Good friends own it and the chef is an old friend. It is always a pleasure to dine there. The food is spectacular.
We were awakened this a.m. early by a little granddaughter. She was told not to knock unless there were signs of us being awake. Well, as soon as Bash heard her coming he began to bark so I guess that was sign enough. It was a late night last eve since we picniced with my family on their boat on Bomoseen. Then enjoyed a lovely cruise around that beautiful lake after dark. I rode in a tube behind the speed boat with my granddaughter who is 6 yrs. old. It was quite scary at first but was fun. I have never done anything like that before in my life. Hitting the wake from the boat was most thrilling. My neck is a bit stiff this morning from the bumpy ride but I would do it again.
Gotta go finish the laundry now and then off to the grocery store. Keep your life as simple as possible for the next few weeks, rest often, do nice things for yourself and those you love, give to others less fortunate and as St. Francis said, "Pray incessantly". These are challenging times for all of us right now. Some are being challenged physically, others mentally or spiritually. Stay with it and Pray for Balance and Harmony on Earth.
Sending you all Light and Love from Bearfoot -
D.
Friday, July 21, 2006
July21, 2006
Pics are of the Thousand Islands.
I am parked in Florence, VT, the driveway of my daughter and her family. It has been hot and sticky. The AC in Bearfoot is much appreciated. My daughter from Albany and her son have been here visiting too. We all went up to Pico Peak Ski area the other day to ride the Alpine Slide. The chairlift ride is worth the admission. It ascends the mountain very slowly giving one the opportunity for viewing the lofty scenery. My granddaughter rode down in front of me and I found holding the lever down to make it go was very difficult. I have had a tender thumb on my left hand but now it is almost unusable. Expect it will pass.
We have visited the Pittsford Rec area for swimming and frog hunting. There are trails and a crystal cold stream to explore as well. We sat in the shade, enjoyed a picnic lunch and watched the kids frolic. Vermont is a beautiful state. It is interesting to note how one forgets the intense and abundant green of this place. One drawback this year is mosquitos. In NC, we referred to them as the state bird. If this infestation continues here, VT could replace or equal the eastern part of NC.
We have been walking some but the heat has been intense so exercise has been at a minimum. Bearfoot had a thorough cleaning yesterday inside and out because I thought I had someone coming to look at him. But they backed out late yesterday. A good job done however since BF had been sitting unoccupied for over a month and was quite dirty. There will be another BF in my future but it will be larger, be a diesel and more comfortable for two people and a dog. The Bearfoot adventures will continue I assure you. Here are some photos.
Monday, July 10, 2006
July 10, 2006
Here are more pics of the surrounding area: Alexandria Bay and sunset from the deck of Wog Island.
Friday, July 07, 2006
July 6, 2006
Our 4th of July celebration lasted for the entire weekend. On the river here in the Thousand Islands people shoot off fireworks each evening somewhere visible. I have lived near water in several areas over the years and that seems to always be the case. I speculate that it is because of visibility and the clarity of sound out over the water. I have some fair pictures but I haven't downloaded them yet. I have lots to post and will do so soon. Busy cleaning up after family left and did start a watercolour painting of the lighthouse and the 4 beautiful loon's that I saw in the river. I have been biking to Clayton from Fishers Landing as often as I can. It is 10 miles with some steep hills coming in. The weather here has been fantastic although very very windy over the weekend. Now it is perfect and we plan to take a long boat trip up to Alexandria Bay and around the back side of the huge island, Wellesley. Sebastian will love it too. I hung an Oriole feeder in the poplar tree in the postage stamp yard atop the rocks on Wog Island since I spotted an Oriole there a week ago. No takers yet. I have yet to ride on the Sea Doo but Ralph says he will take me soon. No funny stuff though! Last evening we went to the Clayton Opera House which is very historic to watch, "Patsy Cline Always", a musical play about Patsy and a fan of hers. The singing was grand. the picture attached is of Ralph and I at a restaurant overlooking the Seaway. The other is a homemade Catamaran????
Keep playing and dancing in the summer sun and breezes.
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