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.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
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.
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