The day started out as usual with my quiet time and a breakfast with lots of fruit(banana,blueberries and strawberries) on my Cheerios. I pedaled to the Rec. with just a t-shirt and shorts on as it was that warm. I got in about 3 plus hours of pickle ball as there was a health fair being held at the Rec. and of course physical exercise is a must for good health so I was asked to hang around and put on a pickle ball demonstration with several of our players. We had 2 new ladies who got caught up in the game and actually played with us for about an hour.
I got home around 11:30 just in time to have lunch with Amy, Ava and Nancy. Ava stayed and played until about 3 PM before heading out to take her afternoon nap. Tomorrow Bobby, Jill and Annsley are coming for lunch so the girls will get to play for a couple hours. The rain started about the time Amy left and rained for a couple hours. A nice soft soaking rain which was much needed.
Well Nancy fixed broiled Italian sausages, baked sweet potato's and broccoli for dinner. Another one of her good meals. Tomorrow I'm smoking beer in the rear chickens for dinner as we will celebrate a belated birthday dinner for Tyler.
Better go for now, Later!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Tuesday and Wednesday
Tuesday was just another beautiful warm sunny Florida day. Once again we slept in until after 7 as the gym was closed for pickle ball. I went to the exercise/ weight room and did 30 minutes each on the treadmill and elliptical around 9 AM. Then did about 50 sit ups and weight lifts. I got a good 2 hours in before heading out to the library and picked up 2 more new books on the Arctic. Both books are non fiction and a very good read. 58 DEGREES NORTH and ADA BLACKJACK are both about survival on land and sea in the same arctic setting.
After pedaling home I worked in the garden and waited on Amy, Ava and Nancy(was church shopping) for lunch. After lunch I laid around and read the rest of the afternoon until supper. Amy and Ava came back and ate dinner with us as Tyler went directly from work to the church to teach his ESL class(English a second language). Nancy made a fantastic pasta dish with fresh mushrooms and asparagus. Yum-O.
Wednesday morning found me back up at my usual time 6:30 so I could get ready for pickle ball. After my quiet time and a lite breakfast(fruit) I pedaled to the Rec. and got in 2 good hours of play with 10 other players then did an additional 30 minutes on the elliptical and weights. My shirt was really wet when I rode home. The day was warm and windy. After lunch I transplanted some new lettuce seedlings and watered the garden. I then did a few honey-do jobs for Nancy then settled down to read until it was time to head to the church and help serve dinner and cleanup. Nancy had about 65 for dinner and she prepared pork chops, mashed spuds and gravy, mixed vegetables(broccoli and cauliflower) and homemade chocolate chip cookies with ice cream for dessert. Once again I held off on the cookies and cream but did have an extra roll with gravy. Was that an ever good meal and she received tons of compliments. We were out of the kitchen by 6:40.
Well will close for now.LATER
After pedaling home I worked in the garden and waited on Amy, Ava and Nancy(was church shopping) for lunch. After lunch I laid around and read the rest of the afternoon until supper. Amy and Ava came back and ate dinner with us as Tyler went directly from work to the church to teach his ESL class(English a second language). Nancy made a fantastic pasta dish with fresh mushrooms and asparagus. Yum-O.
Wednesday morning found me back up at my usual time 6:30 so I could get ready for pickle ball. After my quiet time and a lite breakfast(fruit) I pedaled to the Rec. and got in 2 good hours of play with 10 other players then did an additional 30 minutes on the elliptical and weights. My shirt was really wet when I rode home. The day was warm and windy. After lunch I transplanted some new lettuce seedlings and watered the garden. I then did a few honey-do jobs for Nancy then settled down to read until it was time to head to the church and help serve dinner and cleanup. Nancy had about 65 for dinner and she prepared pork chops, mashed spuds and gravy, mixed vegetables(broccoli and cauliflower) and homemade chocolate chip cookies with ice cream for dessert. Once again I held off on the cookies and cream but did have an extra roll with gravy. Was that an ever good meal and she received tons of compliments. We were out of the kitchen by 6:40.
Well will close for now.LATER
Monday, January 26, 2009
Monday
Wow what a Florida Day. In the high 70's with no humidity and lots of sunshine. Nancy and I slept in until 7:45 as the Rec. Center gym was being resurfaced so there is no pickle ball until Wednesday. After my quiet time and lite breakfast I headed out to the Rec. for a work out in the weight room. I did 3o minutes on the treadmill at 3.2mph and 6.5 degree slope up hill. I managed a wet shirt then did about 15 minutes of sit ups, crunches, arm and chest exercises with weights before heading out to the library. I picked up a new book called RING OF ICE. Its a running commentary about arctic adventures starting back in the 1800's. Many of the entries are from the diaries of explorer's who perished but written accounts of what transpired where later found along with their frozen bodies. Its a great read.
I picked beans and 'maters when I got home and watered the garden. Amy and Ava came for lunch and we played outside as the weather was super ice. After lunch the girls took off to Target and I changed out the seats in the shower spigots. I then read until G/G and Pap came by for a visit. After they left I got a call from Audine Todd. She wanted to inform us that Nub and Pam(next door neighbors in the mountains) had lost their youngest son in a fatal car crash in Germany a couple weeks ago. His wife who is in the Army just had a baby boy a couple months back as well. So sad!!!He was just 23 years of age. Our sympathy goes out to the family. Well, its really been one of the coldest winter they have experienced in several years. Audine says she is finally back to work, however they have cut her hours as well. It seems much of Sparta is closing as several businesses have closed their doors or gone out business.
Well Nancy made her favorite comfort food dish for dinner; tuna noodle casserole with yellow squash and home grown green beans. Doesn't sound exciting but its very tasty. Well not much else happening here in Florida except the big football game on Sunday between the Cardinals and Steelers at Tampa Stadium. Bobby will be working as a volunteer during the Super Bowl activities, so he's pumped. Well to all our mountain friends I wish you could have some of this warm weather. LATER!!
I picked beans and 'maters when I got home and watered the garden. Amy and Ava came for lunch and we played outside as the weather was super ice. After lunch the girls took off to Target and I changed out the seats in the shower spigots. I then read until G/G and Pap came by for a visit. After they left I got a call from Audine Todd. She wanted to inform us that Nub and Pam(next door neighbors in the mountains) had lost their youngest son in a fatal car crash in Germany a couple weeks ago. His wife who is in the Army just had a baby boy a couple months back as well. So sad!!!He was just 23 years of age. Our sympathy goes out to the family. Well, its really been one of the coldest winter they have experienced in several years. Audine says she is finally back to work, however they have cut her hours as well. It seems much of Sparta is closing as several businesses have closed their doors or gone out business.
Well Nancy made her favorite comfort food dish for dinner; tuna noodle casserole with yellow squash and home grown green beans. Doesn't sound exciting but its very tasty. Well not much else happening here in Florida except the big football game on Sunday between the Cardinals and Steelers at Tampa Stadium. Bobby will be working as a volunteer during the Super Bowl activities, so he's pumped. Well to all our mountain friends I wish you could have some of this warm weather. LATER!!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Saturday Night and Sunday
The dinner Nancy made Saturday Night was scrumptious and we had a good evening playing Mexican Train domino's and "Oh Hell," a card game. M.Train has become one of my least favorite ways to play domino's but Carol Botbyl loves it and usually beats us. The card game is fun and fast and of course I won that, Oh well.
Sunday morning found us at church at 8:30 to work in the nursery, of course it was just Ava and we thoroughly love that chore. Ava is fast becoming a learned child. She is retaining so much information for such a young one. After church we made fresh hamburgers on the grill and got ready to head out to the nursing home to help with a small church service for the patients. We had about a dozen to attend most had to be pushed to the service in wheelchairs or came in their own motorized chairs. Several who normally attend were under the weather and unable to attend. One particular 94 year old lady who we thought was breathing her last when we first arrived seemed to have recuperated enough to get out of bed as we were leaving. We had just lifted her up in prayer just minutes before hand.
After getting back from the nursing home I finished the book by John Grisham A TIME TO KILL. That is a great read and I recommend it. Nancy made a big pot of homemade vegetable beef soup using lots of my fresh veggies. Amy, Tyler and Ava came for dinner and Nancy also made a pan of cornbread. Wow was that ever good eatin' especially when slathered with peach butter and homemade blackberry jam. The weather was absolutely beautiful with warm 75 degree's and bright sunshine and I sat outside while reading. Tonight its supposed to get down in the 50's and back to the 70's once again tomorrow. Well will close for now, LATER.
Sunday morning found us at church at 8:30 to work in the nursery, of course it was just Ava and we thoroughly love that chore. Ava is fast becoming a learned child. She is retaining so much information for such a young one. After church we made fresh hamburgers on the grill and got ready to head out to the nursing home to help with a small church service for the patients. We had about a dozen to attend most had to be pushed to the service in wheelchairs or came in their own motorized chairs. Several who normally attend were under the weather and unable to attend. One particular 94 year old lady who we thought was breathing her last when we first arrived seemed to have recuperated enough to get out of bed as we were leaving. We had just lifted her up in prayer just minutes before hand.
After getting back from the nursing home I finished the book by John Grisham A TIME TO KILL. That is a great read and I recommend it. Nancy made a big pot of homemade vegetable beef soup using lots of my fresh veggies. Amy, Tyler and Ava came for dinner and Nancy also made a pan of cornbread. Wow was that ever good eatin' especially when slathered with peach butter and homemade blackberry jam. The weather was absolutely beautiful with warm 75 degree's and bright sunshine and I sat outside while reading. Tonight its supposed to get down in the 50's and back to the 70's once again tomorrow. Well will close for now, LATER.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Friday and Saturday Morning
Friday started out cold with tons of frost every where but none I repeat none fell on my garden. The big oak tree provided enough cover to keep the frost from settling and killing my crops. After my quiet time and a bowl of cereal I pedaled to the Rec. and worked up a good sweat with 2 hours of pickle ball, elliptical and weights. Wow I have lost 3 1/2 lbs. since New Years Day. All I have cut out is desserts.I'm still eating too large of portions and I hope to remedy that as well, but darn Nancy is such a good cook and I just can't help myself. Last night Amy and Tyler invited us to their house along with Tyler's old roommate Jon Perry and his family for dinner. Now that Amy is becoming a great cook like her mother. She prepared one of the best lasagnas and salad I have ever eaten. We had a great time and Ava and Phoneix played until after 8 PM.
After Ava 's bath and bed time we played a game of "oh hell" which Tyler won. It was nearly 10 before we headed home.The air had cooled off enough to make the heat run again last night but today, Sat. its supposed to be in the 70' yea for warmer weather. I just opened the windows at 11AM to air the house out and let the warm sunshine in.
I headed over to Tampa this morning with 4 others guys to attend Bob's first prayer breakfast for ELEMENT CHURCH. We had 33 guys to attend and the food was amazing; pancakes with a special butter, scrambles eggs, bacon and a fresh fruit salad. Just down right good eatin'. We shared a little about our feelings, prayed for each other and how ELEMENT can become a difference in our communities and the city of Tampa by building relationships and being all that CHRIST has intended for us to be.
Nancy took off with Carol Botbyl to Calvary Chapel to help with the monthly distribution of the Angel Food Ministry. Dan and I missed this month but we felt to be a part of the initial prayer breakfast was a must. Nancy said they had plenty of workers. Well we hope to get a good 4 mile walk in before the Botbyl's come for dinner at 5 PM. Nancy has chicken Kiev, salad, home grown broccoli on the menu along with the starch and dessert Carol is bringing. Domino's will follow I hope. Well better go as Nancy is calling for me harvest greens for the salad.LATER.
After Ava 's bath and bed time we played a game of "oh hell" which Tyler won. It was nearly 10 before we headed home.The air had cooled off enough to make the heat run again last night but today, Sat. its supposed to be in the 70' yea for warmer weather. I just opened the windows at 11AM to air the house out and let the warm sunshine in.
I headed over to Tampa this morning with 4 others guys to attend Bob's first prayer breakfast for ELEMENT CHURCH. We had 33 guys to attend and the food was amazing; pancakes with a special butter, scrambles eggs, bacon and a fresh fruit salad. Just down right good eatin'. We shared a little about our feelings, prayed for each other and how ELEMENT can become a difference in our communities and the city of Tampa by building relationships and being all that CHRIST has intended for us to be.
Nancy took off with Carol Botbyl to Calvary Chapel to help with the monthly distribution of the Angel Food Ministry. Dan and I missed this month but we felt to be a part of the initial prayer breakfast was a must. Nancy said they had plenty of workers. Well we hope to get a good 4 mile walk in before the Botbyl's come for dinner at 5 PM. Nancy has chicken Kiev, salad, home grown broccoli on the menu along with the starch and dessert Carol is bringing. Domino's will follow I hope. Well better go as Nancy is calling for me harvest greens for the salad.LATER.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thursday
Well it was a frosty morning around our house but fortunately my garden was spared. I checked the garden when I first woke up around 6:30 and noticed no white ice clinging to any plants but the neighbors roof and yard were solid white. After my quiet time and a banana for breakfast I jumped on the bike and headed to the Rec. for pickle ball. There were 11 of us today and what a wild and wacky morning. For 2 solid hours we played hard and I was bushed when 10 AM rolled around. I knew I had to be back at the Rec. for 1 PM badminton so I stayed out of the weight room. Wow what a workout that was as 4 of us pickle ball players also love the game of badminton. We played until just after 3 PM so what great 4 hours of work out and on top of that I'm off desserts. So tomorrow after play I will weight myself.I need to be between 180- 182 lbs.
I came back from the Rec.with the temps at least 20 degrees warmer than when I went at 7:45 this morning. My eyes were watering from the cold as well as my hands showed some redness on the the bike ride. Nancy also got her 30 minutes on the treadmill along with the walk there. Great!!!
Amy and Ava came for lunch and little Ava has a runny nose but is so cheerful and so much fun to be around. She now loves everything as she constantly says "I love it." Well Nancy fixed a Mahi-Mahi baked in the oven along with fresh green beans on a bed of white rice with soy sauce and a fresh garden salad. Super eating. The Mahi- Mahi is superb, its fresh frozen and found at Sam's Club and imported from Ecuador.
Well not much else going on. Its still nippy here with the temps still in the 50's and the heat kicking in. Last night it kept me wake as it kicked in quite a bit all night long. We are looking at another cool night but not as cold as last night then a warm up to the 70's this week end.
Well take care and stay warm to all our mountain buddies. Later!!!
I came back from the Rec.with the temps at least 20 degrees warmer than when I went at 7:45 this morning. My eyes were watering from the cold as well as my hands showed some redness on the the bike ride. Nancy also got her 30 minutes on the treadmill along with the walk there. Great!!!
Amy and Ava came for lunch and little Ava has a runny nose but is so cheerful and so much fun to be around. She now loves everything as she constantly says "I love it." Well Nancy fixed a Mahi-Mahi baked in the oven along with fresh green beans on a bed of white rice with soy sauce and a fresh garden salad. Super eating. The Mahi- Mahi is superb, its fresh frozen and found at Sam's Club and imported from Ecuador.
Well not much else going on. Its still nippy here with the temps still in the 50's and the heat kicking in. Last night it kept me wake as it kicked in quite a bit all night long. We are looking at another cool night but not as cold as last night then a warm up to the 70's this week end.
Well take care and stay warm to all our mountain buddies. Later!!!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Tuesday and Wednesday
Monday night around 11 PM a severe storm went through the area with high winds and rain knocking tree limbs and bending over much of my garden plants. The temperature dropped dramatically with the lows down in the 40's and it didn't get much out of the 50' all day. Wednesday brought even colder temp's down into the high 30's and tonight its predicting a possible freeze for our area. It will be touch and go for the beans, cuke's and tomato plants. I moved some new seedlings into the shed. However when you compare what we are experiencing it really is a heat way to our friends in the mountains. This morning as I rode my bike to the Rec. after my quiet time my eyes were watering from the cold air.
Well Nancy cooked chili for supper tonight at church along with hot dogs, corn bread and salad with chocolate cream pie for dessert. Of course everything was delicious except I didn't try the pie. Its been 21 days since I've had a dessert.
We had 15 players today for pickle ball and 10 on Tuesday. There was some hot and heavy play with lots of wet shirts. Not much new going on, I did water my garden heavily today as wet ground retains the heat better than dry ground so maybe the plants will survive. At 8:30 PM the temp is already down to 39 the coldest so far this year. I picked the bean vines completely and got another nice mess of beans.
We attended a Bible study last night and had our bi-weekly house church for Element tonight with 10 in attendance. We are just getting started with the house church concept and we hope this will take off. Trying to do a little good in our community with the knowledge that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. If any of you are interested leave me a comment and I will see that you get plugged in.
Well will go for now. LATER. The frozen lake is where I fish at a friends place in N.C. Brrr now that looks cold.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Monday is another nice day
Well it was another sleep in morning as the Rec. was closed for MLK holiday. After our usual quiet time and breakfast of cereal,banana and strawberries I ventured out to work in the garden. I transplanted some pot bound plants like my; egg plant, basil, spinach and a kale plant.
I then started to make arrangements for replacing my 12 year old microwave oven. When I along with a couple of fellows who work on appliances removed the oven(2 man job) we found the reason it quit working was a wire had worked itself loose and shorted out to the power source. That was hard to believe after being in that position for 12 years. Oh well I'm tickled about that. If any one ever needs an appliance guys with a lot of smarts and good common sense let me know. He fixed my 29 year old freezer that had frozen up after leaving it unplugged for 5 months while we were in the mountains. Now I leave it on and running while we are away but just place fill water jugs inside.Oh well so much to learn.
Nancy fixed leftovers for dinner which were as good as the night she cooked them; meat loaf, green beans and potato's and a fresh salad. Well its back to a good work out on the pickle ball court tomorrow. LATER
I then started to make arrangements for replacing my 12 year old microwave oven. When I along with a couple of fellows who work on appliances removed the oven(2 man job) we found the reason it quit working was a wire had worked itself loose and shorted out to the power source. That was hard to believe after being in that position for 12 years. Oh well I'm tickled about that. If any one ever needs an appliance guys with a lot of smarts and good common sense let me know. He fixed my 29 year old freezer that had frozen up after leaving it unplugged for 5 months while we were in the mountains. Now I leave it on and running while we are away but just place fill water jugs inside.Oh well so much to learn.
Nancy fixed leftovers for dinner which were as good as the night she cooked them; meat loaf, green beans and potato's and a fresh salad. Well its back to a good work out on the pickle ball court tomorrow. LATER
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Saturday and Sunday
Well it was quite chilly Saturday morning with temps. down in the 30's but no frost or freeze. I'm sure glad of that as beans and 'maters are starting to come in. After our usual quiet time Nancy made blueberry buckwheat pancakes with ham. Very good eatin' and I finished the last 2 cakes this morning before we headed out to Element for worship. They were the last item to be micro waved in our oven as all of a sudden it stopped working altogether. The past 2 days it has come on for a few seconds by itself so either there is a short in the electrical circuit or it just plumb wore out. It's an over the stove type that fastens to the wall within the cabinets. Not an easy thing to change as I changed this one out about 10 years ago.
Saturday afternoon found Nancy and I on a 4 mile walk as the afternoon was just beautiful with temp's in the high 60's and bright sunshine. We had her mom and dad(GG & Pap) over for supper. Nancy fixed a fresh garden salad, meatloaf, baked sweet potato's and squash casserole. Very good comfort food. We played domino's and I won on the last round.
Sunday found us at Element Church in Tampa then off to Bob, Jill and Annsley for the rest of the afternoon. Bob had a lamb shoulder baking in the oven with his special sauce. Nancy brought fresh green beans from the garden as well as a fresh salad and a layered taco dip to munch on before hand. We also had garlic smashed red spuds. We brought Annsley her wagon Christmas present as the handle(tongue) finally came in an I attached it to the rest of the body. We ate lunch/dinner around 3:30 or so, then took a walk/wagon ride through the neighborhood during half time of the Cardinal/Eagle game. Go Curt Warner and the Cardinal's. We left Bob's just before dark.
We got to love up on Annsley and she was very excited about her new wagon. She loved opening the side door and kept getting in an out of the wagon. Well it was another beautiful day with bright sunshine and temps once again warming up to the low 70's. Wow to those who live in Pittsburgh with all that cold and snow. We had a hard time with the temps here in the 40's. I remember playing high school football in the cold weather and believe me it wasn't all that much fun. Well will close for now. Enclosed are a few pics of the grand girls. LATER.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Thursday and Friday on Saturday Morning
Well I have been just plain lax about writing the past couple of nights; mainly because we went out to eat with our neighbors, then played domino's until late and then last night we watched Ava until after 8. I just got interested in a new book(about Alaska) after finishing Nicholas Spark's book TRUE BELIEVER. That was a good read, however I need those feel good, chick flick reads once in awhile to show to myself I still have the ability to tear up. Oh well, I'm a sensitive guy!!!!RIGHT.
Nothing was out of the ordinary for the morning routines except its been a bit on the nippy side.Nancy went from A/C to heat overnight. The age "thing"is starting to show; one minute she's hot and the next she cold. Hormones!!! Yikes!!!! But we did have a couple 40's mornings and this morning, Saturday is definitely the coldest with a stiff breeze from the north.
Thursday and Friday there were several pickle ball players and as usual we had some fast and furious play. Lots of wet shirts. I manage to loss 3 pounds since New Years Day and my resolution of; not eating desserts and chips is starting to pay off. I still at least 2 pinches on the gut to go before I relinquish to an occasional dessert. Really now that I'm over the dessert withdrawal I may stay away all together. At first I found it hard to see all that food going to waste(kids in China starving) even if it is desserts.
We ate at a place called Golden Corral on Thursday night with our neighbor's Toni, Mark and Ms. Carol, buffet style(my first real test of not feeling like I have to eat my money's worth) in Largo and we were surprised at how good it was. The place was clean and the food was fresh and I had one of the better steaks I had ever eaten out. I kept hearing this bell ring so finally I ask the waitress the significance of the bell and she informed us each time it rang something fresh from the bakery was being offered up. Wow, I'm sure glad I'm off desserts however I did peruse the selections.Will Power!!! That bell rang continuously.
Friday night Ava came for dinner as Amy and Tyler went out to eat. I had picked a pot of 1/2 runner green beans from the garden and Nancy fixed them with boiled spuds. Wow that is an amazing meal. An old friend Walt Hampton called around 8 and we talked for over an hour. I hadn't spoken to him since we left the cabin in October. We didn't get a Christmas Card this year and we found out why; after talking with him we learned he had fallen through the ceiling in his shop while installing insulation and had spent 20 days in the hospital in Winston-Salem. He broke several ribs, his shoulder blade and other injuries. He was operated on several times and is just now getting back to where he can sit up and function some what. Keep Walt and Theia(wife) in your prayers.
Nancy is calling that breakfast (ham and blueberry buckwheat pancakes) is ready. So I will close for now. Tomorrow we will head to Tampa to worship at Element Church and spend the afternoon with Bob, Jill and Annsley.
Did you notice my counter started working again!!! Whats going on??? LATER
Nothing was out of the ordinary for the morning routines except its been a bit on the nippy side.Nancy went from A/C to heat overnight. The age "thing"is starting to show; one minute she's hot and the next she cold. Hormones!!! Yikes!!!! But we did have a couple 40's mornings and this morning, Saturday is definitely the coldest with a stiff breeze from the north.
Thursday and Friday there were several pickle ball players and as usual we had some fast and furious play. Lots of wet shirts. I manage to loss 3 pounds since New Years Day and my resolution of; not eating desserts and chips is starting to pay off. I still at least 2 pinches on the gut to go before I relinquish to an occasional dessert. Really now that I'm over the dessert withdrawal I may stay away all together. At first I found it hard to see all that food going to waste(kids in China starving) even if it is desserts.
We ate at a place called Golden Corral on Thursday night with our neighbor's Toni, Mark and Ms. Carol, buffet style(my first real test of not feeling like I have to eat my money's worth) in Largo and we were surprised at how good it was. The place was clean and the food was fresh and I had one of the better steaks I had ever eaten out. I kept hearing this bell ring so finally I ask the waitress the significance of the bell and she informed us each time it rang something fresh from the bakery was being offered up. Wow, I'm sure glad I'm off desserts however I did peruse the selections.Will Power!!! That bell rang continuously.
Friday night Ava came for dinner as Amy and Tyler went out to eat. I had picked a pot of 1/2 runner green beans from the garden and Nancy fixed them with boiled spuds. Wow that is an amazing meal. An old friend Walt Hampton called around 8 and we talked for over an hour. I hadn't spoken to him since we left the cabin in October. We didn't get a Christmas Card this year and we found out why; after talking with him we learned he had fallen through the ceiling in his shop while installing insulation and had spent 20 days in the hospital in Winston-Salem. He broke several ribs, his shoulder blade and other injuries. He was operated on several times and is just now getting back to where he can sit up and function some what. Keep Walt and Theia(wife) in your prayers.
Nancy is calling that breakfast (ham and blueberry buckwheat pancakes) is ready. So I will close for now. Tomorrow we will head to Tampa to worship at Element Church and spend the afternoon with Bob, Jill and Annsley.
Did you notice my counter started working again!!! Whats going on??? LATER
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Great Day for Pickle Ball, a Luncheon and Washing Dishes at Church
It was a bit nippy this morning on the bike ride to the Rec. In the 40's once again and it warmed up to the low 70's with bright sunshine. After my usual routine; quiet time, lite breakfast(leftover buckwheat pancakes) and bike ride I got in 2 good hours of pickle ball play with about 14 other players. Thanks for all the wet shirts.
I made it home to harvest tons of greens for a salad for our lunch with most of those pickle ball players at Jersey Jim's pad on Redington Beach. YEOW does he have a cool place. Ocean view with palm trees swaying and a wrap around balcony(2nd floor). One of the nicer places I'm ever been to on the beach(us farmers aren't use to all that opulence(high fluting living).There was a ton of good eatin', yet someone brought a chocolate cake. Thanks again for the neat friendships we are developing not to mention all the good cooks. We are planning another get together around the middle of February before Ken and Karen head back to Tennessee with an evening of finger foods, cheese and wine tasting. Looking forward to that.
After a fun lunch I had to get ready to head to church and help Nancy with the fellowship meal. She fixed ham, potato casserole and green beans with homemade biscuits and red velvet cake for dessert along with a fresh salad. Y......!!! We got out of there after the clean up and serving about 60 people around 6:45.
Will close for now, LATER!!!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Monday on Tuesday
Well Monday was cloudy to start with a little sunshine in the afternoon. The morning was a usual head out to the Rec. after my quiet time and a lite breakfast. It was pleasant temperature wise, however that has changed a bunch today,Tuesday(I'll report on that later). We had a good turn out for pickle ball with about 12 players for about 2 hours plus. Afterwards I did 30 minutes on the elliptical, 50 crunches and bunches of heavy weights for the arms and shoulders. I then stopped by the library and picked up a couple books for the rest of the day.
Amy and Ava came for lunch, Nancy got back from shopping and we had a great lunch. Afterwards Ava and myself worked out in the garden then it was time for her to head off for her afternoon nap.I almost forgot when I was leaving the library a young man in his 30's came up to me and ask me if I was a trooper. Right a way at first I became a little wary after acknowledging that I was a trooper albeit retired. He said I investigated a crash he was involved in about 10 years ago and he said he would never forget my face; even though he said the crash was his fault he remembered my professionalism and the investigation. He was most sincere in his making my acquaintance after such a time. I left with a good feeling that I had made a difference in the respect for the FHP and myself.
Nancy made a great dinner last night using my first picking from the pole beans(green beans) I'm growing in my garden. She sauteed fresh garlic, onions with cubed chicken breasts in olive oil then eventually added bamboo shoots and hearts then thickened with a little corn starch. The beans were par-boiled(crispy) then mixed into the batch with soy sauce and terriyaki sauce. This is then spooned over a bed of white and dark rice. YOEW is that ever good!!! I finished the last of it for lunch today.
After dinner our neighbors daughter and husband came over for card games. They are visiting from cold Michigan for 2 weeks. They have to leave this Saturday and the weather back there is frigid. YUCK !!! Anyhow we had a great 3 hour visit playing several games and eventually showing them pictures of our North Carolina place and friends. Hopefully one of these days they will try to visit us as it only about 9 hours from there residence in Coldwater.
Well today is Tuesday and the overcast morning finally brought a nice soft rain but with it a cooler temperature. After the usual morning routine Amy and Ava came for lunch but we had to stay inside and read books instead picking flowers and playing outside. I can hear the sirens in the area as the roads are wet and very slippery. This type of day brings tons of fender benders. Now I just stay at home and enjoy the comforts of retirement.
Well I just finished THE LAST JUROR by John Grisham. Its a good read and I recommend it. I just started THE TRUE BELIEVER by Nickolas Sparks. Starts out as if it will keep my interest as well. Well we are going to attend a new small group in the area tonight and we are looking forward as we really miss our small group in Sparta, N.C. What a great way to make new relationships and friends.
Will close for now as Nancy is making supper; I pulled some fresh collard greens growing in the back yard. She will cook them for about 15 minutes, then fry up some bacon with onions and eventually mix them in with the collards along with oven spuds rolled in olive oil and fresh chopped rosemary and parsley. She will then pan fry or saute a couple pork chops. YUMMMM!!!!
Well will write another day. If you noticed some how our counter quit working and I can't get another to work so you will have to leave me messages to let me know your still interested in reading all of my not interesting babble. The last count I had was nearly 6000 hits since last May. I will have to get my son in law to help me hook another one. LATER!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Saturday on Sunday
Well Saturday turned out to be another beautiful warm day. After our quiet time Amy came over with Ava and Nancy made a big batch of buckwheat pancakes with ham and eggs. I did a little gardening and then read for a couple of hours. The girl's along with neighbors Phoenix and Melinda took off for the horse barn. The owners weren't there so they could only look from outside the fence. After lunch Amy and Ava went home for her afternoon nap and I took off for the Rec. There is no pickle ball on week ends but I did 45 minutes on the elliptical, about 50 crunches and a ton of heavy weights for my arms and shoulders. I have finally worked the tendinitis out of both elbows I had developed a couple years ago from lifting square bales of hay.
Before I forget it, I'm reading a true story by Todd Lewan entitled the THE LAST RUN. It takes place in Alaska about the attempted rescue of 5 fisherman on a boat by the U.S. Coast Guard. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat and give you a new perspective how the USCG risks their lives to save others in unbelievable situations. Its a must read.
Well Nancy and I took a couple mile walk when I got back from the Rec. as it was just down right gorgeous out. Afterwards I sat out in the back yard under the tree and finished the book. Nancy made an unbelievably delicious beef barley soup from the frozen left over prime rib bones from Christmas dinner. Wow was that ever good along with a pan of cornbread and a fresh garden salad. Amy and Ava came back for dinner and stayed until after 8 PM. I started watching the playoffs and was happy to see Kurt Warner of the Cardinals beat the Panthers. Kurt is such a strong Christian and is much like Tim Tebow of the Gators in their open and up front display as a CHRIST follower. I kind of wanted to see the Panthers do well but they sure stunk the field up Saturday Night. Hopefully the Cardinals they can beat the Eagles next Sunday.
I left for Tampa Airport at 11:30 PM to pick up Tyler(son-in-law) as he was flying back into the country from his week long misson trip to Coasta Rica. I finally got back to the house and into bed around 1 AM. I did not want to get up this AM for 8:30 church. During the service myself and a couple others assisted a young woman with some health issues who passed out in the service. We maintained a good airway and 911 was called and she was transported to the hospital. After the service Nancy and I gave blood as the blood mobile was at our church. About half way through Nancy's donation her blood stopped flowing into her container and because there is so much anti-coagulate in the bag they had to dispose of the donation. My blood flowed like a river. So 1 out of 2 of us was able to make a good donation.
Prior to lunch I watered and picked fresh green beans, both 1/2 runners and pole beans. Wow are they ever nice. After eating a fresh salad for lunch and me getting ready for the NFL playoffs Nancy took off shopping. She came back after a couple hours with new jeans and new shoes.
After supper which was left over soup from last night I tried to get interested in the Charger vs Steeler game but that eventually became a blow out. The first half was fun to watch especially seeing all the snow in the air and how cold it was from Nancy's home town; of course she left there for Florida when she was very young and is thankful she doesn't live there any more.
Well will close for now. LATER!
Before I forget it, I'm reading a true story by Todd Lewan entitled the THE LAST RUN. It takes place in Alaska about the attempted rescue of 5 fisherman on a boat by the U.S. Coast Guard. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat and give you a new perspective how the USCG risks their lives to save others in unbelievable situations. Its a must read.
Well Nancy and I took a couple mile walk when I got back from the Rec. as it was just down right gorgeous out. Afterwards I sat out in the back yard under the tree and finished the book. Nancy made an unbelievably delicious beef barley soup from the frozen left over prime rib bones from Christmas dinner. Wow was that ever good along with a pan of cornbread and a fresh garden salad. Amy and Ava came back for dinner and stayed until after 8 PM. I started watching the playoffs and was happy to see Kurt Warner of the Cardinals beat the Panthers. Kurt is such a strong Christian and is much like Tim Tebow of the Gators in their open and up front display as a CHRIST follower. I kind of wanted to see the Panthers do well but they sure stunk the field up Saturday Night. Hopefully the Cardinals they can beat the Eagles next Sunday.
I left for Tampa Airport at 11:30 PM to pick up Tyler(son-in-law) as he was flying back into the country from his week long misson trip to Coasta Rica. I finally got back to the house and into bed around 1 AM. I did not want to get up this AM for 8:30 church. During the service myself and a couple others assisted a young woman with some health issues who passed out in the service. We maintained a good airway and 911 was called and she was transported to the hospital. After the service Nancy and I gave blood as the blood mobile was at our church. About half way through Nancy's donation her blood stopped flowing into her container and because there is so much anti-coagulate in the bag they had to dispose of the donation. My blood flowed like a river. So 1 out of 2 of us was able to make a good donation.
Prior to lunch I watered and picked fresh green beans, both 1/2 runners and pole beans. Wow are they ever nice. After eating a fresh salad for lunch and me getting ready for the NFL playoffs Nancy took off shopping. She came back after a couple hours with new jeans and new shoes.
After supper which was left over soup from last night I tried to get interested in the Charger vs Steeler game but that eventually became a blow out. The first half was fun to watch especially seeing all the snow in the air and how cold it was from Nancy's home town; of course she left there for Florida when she was very young and is thankful she doesn't live there any more.
Well will close for now. LATER!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Thursday on Friday
Well the day started out as usual with my quiet tie and a lite breakfast. I then took off for the Rec. where I got 2 plus hours of fast and furious play with 12 other players. I'm writing this on Friday and again we had a great turn out and boy was I beat after 2 plus hours of play today as well. The weather here has turned beautiful once again with cool temps in the low 50's to a high of the high 70's with no humidity. This is perfect weather and I'm not sure if we are heading to the beach on Saturday morning.
We just learned there was a major earthquake in Costa Rica yesterday where Tyler is and we are not sure when and if he will get back home on Saturday. So keep him in your prayers. On Thursday I picked a great mess of 1/2 runner beans and were they ever good for dinner with grilled pork chops. Tonight we are having fresh grilled salmon with angel hair pasta and a salad. Its difficult living with such an excellent cook but I did lose 1 1/2 pounds this week by cutting out the desserts since N.Y. Day. Wow I'm excited only 5 more pounds to go.
Well we got the wagon tongue for Annsley's Christmas present via Fed Ex. and now the wagon is together and just waiting to take that little punkin for a ride. That was so much it was easier than returning the wagon and purchasing another one.
Can you believe the Florida Gators!!!I stayed up and watched those guys beat the #1 team in America. Tim Tebow is a great kid and I love his courageous attitude and stand for CHRIST. Years ago this would have been applauded by many Americans but now it seems the liberal progressive secular have inundated our society and seem to get all the media print. I love it when on his face he promotes JOHN 3:16. Go Tim Tebow!!!
Well will close for now missing all. LATER.
We just learned there was a major earthquake in Costa Rica yesterday where Tyler is and we are not sure when and if he will get back home on Saturday. So keep him in your prayers. On Thursday I picked a great mess of 1/2 runner beans and were they ever good for dinner with grilled pork chops. Tonight we are having fresh grilled salmon with angel hair pasta and a salad. Its difficult living with such an excellent cook but I did lose 1 1/2 pounds this week by cutting out the desserts since N.Y. Day. Wow I'm excited only 5 more pounds to go.
Well we got the wagon tongue for Annsley's Christmas present via Fed Ex. and now the wagon is together and just waiting to take that little punkin for a ride. That was so much it was easier than returning the wagon and purchasing another one.
Can you believe the Florida Gators!!!I stayed up and watched those guys beat the #1 team in America. Tim Tebow is a great kid and I love his courageous attitude and stand for CHRIST. Years ago this would have been applauded by many Americans but now it seems the liberal progressive secular have inundated our society and seem to get all the media print. I love it when on his face he promotes JOHN 3:16. Go Tim Tebow!!!
Well will close for now missing all. LATER.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Wednesday
Well the day started out with the usual quiet time and just a banana for breakfast. I pedaled to the Rec. for a 2 1/2 hour work out with 8 other players. There were lots of wet shirts this morning and mine was especially wet after doing an additional 15 minutes on the elliptical, 50 crunches and some weights for the arms and shoulders. When I got ready to leave the skies had opened up with rain but I managed to ride between the drops to the library and pick up a new book THE KITE RUNNER. What a read. I recommend it highly.
Although Nancy was cooking at church Ava and Amy came by and had lunch with me which certainly brightened up the gray skies. By then it had cleared off and we played outside in the back yard and worked in the garden until it was time for Ava to head home and get her afternoon nap. I spent the rest of the afternoon reading and squeezing fresh orange juice. Amy picked me up at 4 PM and we headed out to church where we got ready to serve dinner at 5 PM. Nancy had barbecue chicken, baked spuds, baked beans, garlic bread, tossed salad and ice cream pie for dessert. Everything tasted great except the pie as I'm off desserts as my New Years resolution is to lose the roll of fat around my belt line. I call that my money belt as its actually caused by me eating all those high priced foods which only lead to stored fat. Oh well!!!
We were out of the kitchen by 6:45 and then stopped by fora visit and to help Amy with getting Ava ready for bed. Ava is such a cutie!! Well will close for now.LATER
Although Nancy was cooking at church Ava and Amy came by and had lunch with me which certainly brightened up the gray skies. By then it had cleared off and we played outside in the back yard and worked in the garden until it was time for Ava to head home and get her afternoon nap. I spent the rest of the afternoon reading and squeezing fresh orange juice. Amy picked me up at 4 PM and we headed out to church where we got ready to serve dinner at 5 PM. Nancy had barbecue chicken, baked spuds, baked beans, garlic bread, tossed salad and ice cream pie for dessert. Everything tasted great except the pie as I'm off desserts as my New Years resolution is to lose the roll of fat around my belt line. I call that my money belt as its actually caused by me eating all those high priced foods which only lead to stored fat. Oh well!!!
We were out of the kitchen by 6:45 and then stopped by fora visit and to help Amy with getting Ava ready for bed. Ava is such a cutie!! Well will close for now.LATER
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Tuesday is Another Super Day
After my quiet time and a light breakfast I pedaled to the Rec. and got in 2 + hours of pickle ball with 7 other players. We had some fast and furious play and several had wet shirts. Afterwards I stopped by the weight room and worked 15 minutes on the elliptical, did about 50 crunches and several heavy weights for the arms and shoulders. I'm determined with my careful diet and exercise I can knock some of this spare tire around my waist off before we head out in May for the mountains. Then summer there should keep me in shape walking up and down those hills.
Amy and Ava came for lunch around noon just after I got the garden watered and made a fresh garden salad. Nancy came in shortly after doing her shopping for tomorrow's fellowship meal at church. We all had a great salad for lunch. Ava and I played outside until G/G and Pap came by and then I picked them a big bag of fresh lettuce. Amy took Ava home for her afternoon nap then came back after 5 for dinner. Nancy took off to the Rec. to get her workout in and I chilled by reading.
Nancy fixed taco salad for dinner which is one of my favorites. First she sautes ground meat with taco seasoning and opens a can of refried beans. After warming some flour tortilla's in the micro she then spreads the beans on top adds some of the the seasoned meat then adds the rest of the toppings which are; chopped onions, green peppers, cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped tomato's, (I of course add extra oregano and jalapeno peppers) and then add a big scoop of sour cream and then cover with Taco Bell sauce. Wow does that ever taste good and its pretty to look at as well.
After dinner Ava and Amy played for awhile and then she decided they should spend the night at their house. Sure will be quiet around here tonight.Nancy has to go back to cooking at church tomorrow so I will spend most of the afternoon alone until its time to head the church and wash dishes. Well will close for now, Later.
Amy and Ava came for lunch around noon just after I got the garden watered and made a fresh garden salad. Nancy came in shortly after doing her shopping for tomorrow's fellowship meal at church. We all had a great salad for lunch. Ava and I played outside until G/G and Pap came by and then I picked them a big bag of fresh lettuce. Amy took Ava home for her afternoon nap then came back after 5 for dinner. Nancy took off to the Rec. to get her workout in and I chilled by reading.
Nancy fixed taco salad for dinner which is one of my favorites. First she sautes ground meat with taco seasoning and opens a can of refried beans. After warming some flour tortilla's in the micro she then spreads the beans on top adds some of the the seasoned meat then adds the rest of the toppings which are; chopped onions, green peppers, cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped tomato's, (I of course add extra oregano and jalapeno peppers) and then add a big scoop of sour cream and then cover with Taco Bell sauce. Wow does that ever taste good and its pretty to look at as well.
After dinner Ava and Amy played for awhile and then she decided they should spend the night at their house. Sure will be quiet around here tonight.Nancy has to go back to cooking at church tomorrow so I will spend most of the afternoon alone until its time to head the church and wash dishes. Well will close for now, Later.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Monday was another Great Day
After my quiet time and a lite breakfast I got ready to head to the Rec. for pickle ball. There were 12 players today and we had a rowdy group. The play at times was fast and furious and I saw many wet shirts. Afterwards I headed to the weight room and did 15 minutes on the elliptical, several crunches and some heavy weighs for the flabby upper arms. Dang I dislike losing muscle tone especially around the middle area. Oh well I guess that goes with getting older, sure beats the alternative; worm food.
Speaking of worm food the earth worms(fishing worms where I came from) are doing a good job in my garden. I picked my first 2 small tomato's today, a nice pot of green beans, a beautiful cucumber and tons of greens for my lunch salad. After lunch Ava and myself picked a couple flower heads and played outside in the back yard. That girl is an outside girl. Amy and Ava took off for their place around 3 PM for Ava's nap.
Nancy fixed a meat loaf, green beans and rice for dinner. What comfort food. Ava ate real good as she just loves those home grown beans. Well Amy is taking off with her girls group that meets once a week on Mondays so Nancy and I will be giving Ava a bath and putting her to bed here again tonight. This morning she woke up at 5:20 AM. So much for sleeping in until 6:30.
Well will close for now. Later!!
Speaking of worm food the earth worms(fishing worms where I came from) are doing a good job in my garden. I picked my first 2 small tomato's today, a nice pot of green beans, a beautiful cucumber and tons of greens for my lunch salad. After lunch Ava and myself picked a couple flower heads and played outside in the back yard. That girl is an outside girl. Amy and Ava took off for their place around 3 PM for Ava's nap.
Nancy fixed a meat loaf, green beans and rice for dinner. What comfort food. Ava ate real good as she just loves those home grown beans. Well Amy is taking off with her girls group that meets once a week on Mondays so Nancy and I will be giving Ava a bath and putting her to bed here again tonight. This morning she woke up at 5:20 AM. So much for sleeping in until 6:30.
Well will close for now. Later!!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Saturday on Sunday
Saturday turned out to be a super day with temp's in the 70's. It was so nice that after our quiet time, breakfast of buckwheat pancakes we decided to head for the beach. Nancy and I met our friends Dan and Carol there. What a beautiful morning. First we took a couple of long walks in the shallow surf then while they laid around I took a dip in the water. It certainly woke you up initially but after a couple of strokes you quickly acclimated. Wow what a nice swim. We hung around until the early afternoon then headed home.
I worked in the garden and caught up on some reading. Amy and Ava are staying with us while Tyler who left Saturday on a mission trip to Costa Rica is gone. We are having such a good time with them. I managed to get a little NFL playoffs time in. I actually pulled for Curt Warner of the Cardinals as he is kind of an older guy and is a strong Christian. I was surprised to see they won the game but I don't think they have a team that could go all the way.
Sunday morning found us all awaken by Ava at 6 AM. She was bright eyed and ready to go. Needless to say I could have done another 1/2 hour or more as the Colt vs Charger game was a late ending one. Tough game for our old Buc coach; Tony Dungy. Better luck next year guys.
We headed out to Tampa at 9 AM to worship with our son, Bobby at Element Church. A great service and the praise music was awesome. Ava got to play with Annsley and Phoenix in the nursery. There were 11 babies and toddlers there and probably that many more older kids. After Element we headed back to Seminole and picked up a pizza for lunch. We had to help Dan lead the 2 PM service at the nursing home. Dan's niece, Megan played the guitar and piano and did a couple special songs. I spoke on 2 Cor.5:17 which I felt was appropriate for the beginning of a New Year.The rest of the afternoon I dedicated to the watching of the NFL playoff games. Nancy made a great pasta dinner using our fresh oregano and basil along with fresh asparagus on the side and toasted garlic bread.
Well will close for now, boy do I need to get back on the pickle ball court. Later!!!
Friday, January 2, 2009
Friday is an Absolutely Beautiful Day
Well after my quiet time, Cheerios and a banana for breakfast I jumped on the bike and headed to the Rec. We (12 players) got in 2 plus hours of hard play. There were lots of wet shirts. I then did about 15 minutes of crunches and weight workout before heading home. We were expecting our old friend Daisy and her new beau, Robb for a visit and to have lunch with us. I managed to pick a few 1/2 runner beans and feed all my plants as well as give them a good watering before Daisy showed up.Nancy had also invited Carol down for lunch as well.
We had a nice visit with Daisy and thoroughly enjoyed her new friend Robb as well. Daisy looked great and we always enjoy her visits. Since she moved away to Wesley Chapel a couple years ago we seldom see or get to visit with her. After a great lunch we retired to the back yard and I took them on a tour of my garden. Robb said his dad who is in his 90's also is quite a gardener. I loaded them up with some fresh picked mustard greens and tangerines.They both raved about the fresh garden salad, most of which I grew except for the tomato's. Speaking of tomato's mine are starting to turn as I write this so by this time next week I hope to be slicing a home grown 'mater. Oh well, one can only have visions of fresh 'maters on pumpernickel with a slice of vidalia and mayo.
I took off for TIA(Tampa international airport) and picked up our neighbors daughter and son-in-law around 2:30. Toni and Mark were flying in from Detroit where the temp's were in the 20's when they left and a warm cheery 70 + when they arrived. Welcome to Florida!!! They will be here for 2 weeks and we usually get together and play cards a couple nights while they are here.
Well we finished the hoagies and Zuppa soup for dinner tonight.So far I have layed off desserts for 3 days and going strong; no brownies, cheese cakes or chips.
Bobby tried to put Annsley's wagon(a Christmas present from us) and there was no tongue in the box so I called the company and they are going to Fed Ex one to me right way. Yea for that company. I put the wagon together this evening and its ready to go except for the tongue.
Well I will close for the day, sure seems like a Monday for some reason. Everyone have a great week end. Later!!
We had a nice visit with Daisy and thoroughly enjoyed her new friend Robb as well. Daisy looked great and we always enjoy her visits. Since she moved away to Wesley Chapel a couple years ago we seldom see or get to visit with her. After a great lunch we retired to the back yard and I took them on a tour of my garden. Robb said his dad who is in his 90's also is quite a gardener. I loaded them up with some fresh picked mustard greens and tangerines.They both raved about the fresh garden salad, most of which I grew except for the tomato's. Speaking of tomato's mine are starting to turn as I write this so by this time next week I hope to be slicing a home grown 'mater. Oh well, one can only have visions of fresh 'maters on pumpernickel with a slice of vidalia and mayo.
I took off for TIA(Tampa international airport) and picked up our neighbors daughter and son-in-law around 2:30. Toni and Mark were flying in from Detroit where the temp's were in the 20's when they left and a warm cheery 70 + when they arrived. Welcome to Florida!!! They will be here for 2 weeks and we usually get together and play cards a couple nights while they are here.
Well we finished the hoagies and Zuppa soup for dinner tonight.So far I have layed off desserts for 3 days and going strong; no brownies, cheese cakes or chips.
Bobby tried to put Annsley's wagon(a Christmas present from us) and there was no tongue in the box so I called the company and they are going to Fed Ex one to me right way. Yea for that company. I put the wagon together this evening and its ready to go except for the tongue.
Well I will close for the day, sure seems like a Monday for some reason. Everyone have a great week end. Later!!
Enclosed are a few pics from G/G's house and family dinner on New Years Day. If you noticed the girls are dancing and having a grand time
Thursday, January 1, 2009
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Well Wednesday turned out to be a bright sun shiny day with cooler temps, into the low 70's. Finally we got to open the the windows and turn the A/C off. After my quiet time and a lite breakfast I climbed aboard the bike and pedaled to the Rec. There were 8 of us with 2 visitors (Leslie's daughter and friend)and we played hard for about 2 plus hours. Nancy came by and walked on the treadmill for 30 minutes. It's not quite like walking up the back trail(in the mountains)through the woods but it is a cardio workout.
After the workout I harvested lettuce; romaine, bibb and leaf also some spinach and beet greens for a great salad for lunch. Amy and Ava came and we played outside in the cool refreshing crisp afternoon air. Wow was it ever nice. It reminded me of a N.C. spring afternoon. Oh well its cold as the dickens there now with a temperature of 7 degrees this morning. Yikes, that to cold to enjoy outside activities especially if its overcast.
Nancy and I got ready for guests for the evening. She made a ton of hoagie sandwiches, fresh salsa(using homegrown jalapeno peppers) and sweet tea. I managed to catch up on my reading and have just about finished a must read for anyone interested in Afghanistan history,social and cultural mores. Wow its a realistic read especially for women and how they are regarded in that society. The title is A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS written by an Afghany native son KKALED HOSSEINI he also has another book titled THE KITE RUNNER. I had to fly into that area of the world(Karachi, Pakistan) back in the 60's and its a desolate place. Anyhow if your a man the Taliban was your cup of tea after all the infighting that took place after the soviets finally pulled out.
Well we started the evening out with The Perry's; Jon, Melinda and Ava's buddy Phoenix came by bringing a pot of French onion soup complete with toasted bread with cheese on top. YUMMM!! Amy and Tyler came next with Ava and a pot of one of my favorite soups; Zuppa Des Con ta(sic) anyhow its the potato type soup(made with some of my homegrown kale) that Olive Garden serves, YUMMM!!! Dan and Carol brought brownies and next Jim, Laurie and Kayla(next door neighbors) came late but with a pot of black-eyed pea soup. I didn't get to eat any(I had already pigged out) but that type of soup is part of my upbringing and a comfort food. Today we are heading to G/G house(Nancy's folks) for another New Year tradition and gastronomic delight; sauerkraut(Jill's favorite-NOT) and pork roast along with kielbasa and dogs, smashed spuds and home grown garden salad with Greek(homemade of course) dressing. No wonder I put on 5 lbs. over Christmas. Thank goodness for pickle ball or I would be as big a horse or house. Oh well the joys of eating!!! I should mention that Nancy made a pumpkin cheesecake, but one of my resolutions is I'm off desserts until which time I lose this roll around the middle. I never tried the pecan coated brownies that Carol brought last night but I did drink 3 glasses of Coca Cola around 10 Pm while we played domino's. Something which I seldom drink.
After eating, The Lundh's( neighbors) had to make an appearance at another party so they left, the Perry's left(Phoenix's bed time) and we then we put Ava to bed. Ava suffered her first bloody nose as she and Phoneix collided head-on while running in the kitchen.It was nearly 9 PM so we brought out the double 15 domino's and played until just moments before the ball dropped, or the possum dropped or what ever floats your boat to the countdown of 2009. I'm not sure how I will use the extra second we were granted by whoever but I know one thing; Dick Clark looked like an automaton or whatever those things are called in the Hall of Presidents at Mickey Mouse World. American Bandstand will never be the same for me after that. Back to the domino's game Tyler and Carol were best until the end with Tyler winning out and Nancy and I were somewhere over the rainbow. It was past our bedtimes I guess.
The fireworks were loud and every where, even our noisy neighbors at the Canaday's(up the street) with their raucous guests where out an about disturbing the peace. Those Christians!!!We visited with them until after 1 AM before it got to cold to stay out with short pants on.
Nancy and I want to thank all of you who help make our life exciting and give us memories of laughter, friendship, sharing meals together, lifting those we know up in prayer and for giving me something to write about, while leaving something of who we are to our grand children. GOD BLESS and may this year find all of you and us in HIS favor. LATER!!
After the workout I harvested lettuce; romaine, bibb and leaf also some spinach and beet greens for a great salad for lunch. Amy and Ava came and we played outside in the cool refreshing crisp afternoon air. Wow was it ever nice. It reminded me of a N.C. spring afternoon. Oh well its cold as the dickens there now with a temperature of 7 degrees this morning. Yikes, that to cold to enjoy outside activities especially if its overcast.
Nancy and I got ready for guests for the evening. She made a ton of hoagie sandwiches, fresh salsa(using homegrown jalapeno peppers) and sweet tea. I managed to catch up on my reading and have just about finished a must read for anyone interested in Afghanistan history,social and cultural mores. Wow its a realistic read especially for women and how they are regarded in that society. The title is A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS written by an Afghany native son KKALED HOSSEINI he also has another book titled THE KITE RUNNER. I had to fly into that area of the world(Karachi, Pakistan) back in the 60's and its a desolate place. Anyhow if your a man the Taliban was your cup of tea after all the infighting that took place after the soviets finally pulled out.
Well we started the evening out with The Perry's; Jon, Melinda and Ava's buddy Phoenix came by bringing a pot of French onion soup complete with toasted bread with cheese on top. YUMMM!! Amy and Tyler came next with Ava and a pot of one of my favorite soups; Zuppa Des Con ta(sic) anyhow its the potato type soup(made with some of my homegrown kale) that Olive Garden serves, YUMMM!!! Dan and Carol brought brownies and next Jim, Laurie and Kayla(next door neighbors) came late but with a pot of black-eyed pea soup. I didn't get to eat any(I had already pigged out) but that type of soup is part of my upbringing and a comfort food. Today we are heading to G/G house(Nancy's folks) for another New Year tradition and gastronomic delight; sauerkraut(Jill's favorite-NOT) and pork roast along with kielbasa and dogs, smashed spuds and home grown garden salad with Greek(homemade of course) dressing. No wonder I put on 5 lbs. over Christmas. Thank goodness for pickle ball or I would be as big a horse or house. Oh well the joys of eating!!! I should mention that Nancy made a pumpkin cheesecake, but one of my resolutions is I'm off desserts until which time I lose this roll around the middle. I never tried the pecan coated brownies that Carol brought last night but I did drink 3 glasses of Coca Cola around 10 Pm while we played domino's. Something which I seldom drink.
After eating, The Lundh's( neighbors) had to make an appearance at another party so they left, the Perry's left(Phoenix's bed time) and we then we put Ava to bed. Ava suffered her first bloody nose as she and Phoneix collided head-on while running in the kitchen.It was nearly 9 PM so we brought out the double 15 domino's and played until just moments before the ball dropped, or the possum dropped or what ever floats your boat to the countdown of 2009. I'm not sure how I will use the extra second we were granted by whoever but I know one thing; Dick Clark looked like an automaton or whatever those things are called in the Hall of Presidents at Mickey Mouse World. American Bandstand will never be the same for me after that. Back to the domino's game Tyler and Carol were best until the end with Tyler winning out and Nancy and I were somewhere over the rainbow. It was past our bedtimes I guess.
The fireworks were loud and every where, even our noisy neighbors at the Canaday's(up the street) with their raucous guests where out an about disturbing the peace. Those Christians!!!We visited with them until after 1 AM before it got to cold to stay out with short pants on.
Nancy and I want to thank all of you who help make our life exciting and give us memories of laughter, friendship, sharing meals together, lifting those we know up in prayer and for giving me something to write about, while leaving something of who we are to our grand children. GOD BLESS and may this year find all of you and us in HIS favor. LATER!!
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