Well it was another very nice morning in the mountains with such quiet coolness in the air with the dew dripping from the roof and in the distant there was the sound of a lonely crow. After our quiet times we got really to head into Sparta for a doctor's appointment for both of us; me for a finger prick to determine the viscosity of my blood and Nancy for blood drawn for her check on her cholesterol after her fast. I flunked the blood check and will have to stay on more heparin shots until Friday with an increase in the daily dosage of cumadin. The leg seems to be getting a little stronger each day with less of an ache and the swelling is decreasing. I had a good report from all the tests from blood, urine, EKG, and lung capacity in my through checkup from last Wednesday. Praise GOD!!!
We headed out after the doctor's visit to a local restaurant for a bite to eat before heading back to the cabin. I headed out to the top of the mountain on the golf cart while Nancy hiked. We met at our friends place so I could pick blueberries for her. We picked about a quart before heading back down after visiting with several neighbors on top. I rested my leg while watching a little of the US Open Tennis until it was time to start supper. Helen came by for some of Nancy's chocolate mousse tarts she had made on Sunday to share with the office staff at the doctors office. They were real pleased with her choice of goodies to share with them and were most appreciative. We gave the rest to Helen as she has a real sweet tooth and we don't need them while she shared them with her brother Joe.
I picked some fresh Swiss chard and sauteed it in olive oil with fresh garlic cloves, wow is that one of my favorite dishes and it went well with wild rice and grilled salmon for supper. I watered the gardens after eating and then we had Ray Todd come by for a visit. Well the Rays won again tonight against the Jay's and hold on to a tie with the Yanks in first place. LATER
Monday, August 30, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Saturday
Well once again it was just a nice morning with dew dripping from the roof and temps down into the high 50's when we awakened. It was close to 8 before we finally rolled out and had our quiet times and a country breakfast. Bacon cooked outside on the grill with fried eggs, grits, toast with some homemade black raspberry jam, ummm!!! After eating Nancy once again gave me a shot in the belly of heparin, she's getting too good at this and really enjoys putting it to me, yikes I need to get out of this cycle.
We did a load of laundry and I just exercised my leg by checking out the gardens. I'm still taking it easy which is very hard for me to do. The leg still has an ache behind the knee and some swelling is still evident to the calf, but its not intolerable as I stayed away from Tylenol the entire day. Nancy took off on her hike to the top and we kept in touch via hand walkie-talkies. She visited with Roddy and Kathy who built on top a year or so ago and they in turn eventually came down for a visit to our place. They seemed to enjoy the uniqueness of our furnishings and loved the flower gardens as well as the "sitting porches."
After they left we got ready to head over to the Dalton Ranch as Nancy was making her infamous oven 'taters to add to the sumptuous feast they had prepared; pork butt and beer in the rear chicken in the smoker, baked beans, salad and homemade strawberry ice cream. Yikes what a feast!!! Unfortunately the guys were distracted by all this food, baseball and football and to which hand Mechelle was playing as she played a "Harvey Hand" since they were one gal short and they sorta put it on us with a 6-3 trouncing in Sequence. "Momma said there would be days like this"wasn't that a song title?? Anyhow it was an enjoyable evening and we laughed and ate to much!!!
The Ray's won 3-2 over the Boston Baddies in the 10 th to stay even with the Yanks. I watched the Japan team beat the Taiwan team in a very good little league game and the the Hawaii team annihilated the team from Texas 10-0. This afternoon they play each other for the world championship. Should be a fun afternoon and the Ray's play Boston tonight on ESPN. Well better get out of here as its time to get ready for worship at Cornerstone in Sparta, N.C. LATER
We did a load of laundry and I just exercised my leg by checking out the gardens. I'm still taking it easy which is very hard for me to do. The leg still has an ache behind the knee and some swelling is still evident to the calf, but its not intolerable as I stayed away from Tylenol the entire day. Nancy took off on her hike to the top and we kept in touch via hand walkie-talkies. She visited with Roddy and Kathy who built on top a year or so ago and they in turn eventually came down for a visit to our place. They seemed to enjoy the uniqueness of our furnishings and loved the flower gardens as well as the "sitting porches."
After they left we got ready to head over to the Dalton Ranch as Nancy was making her infamous oven 'taters to add to the sumptuous feast they had prepared; pork butt and beer in the rear chicken in the smoker, baked beans, salad and homemade strawberry ice cream. Yikes what a feast!!! Unfortunately the guys were distracted by all this food, baseball and football and to which hand Mechelle was playing as she played a "Harvey Hand" since they were one gal short and they sorta put it on us with a 6-3 trouncing in Sequence. "Momma said there would be days like this"wasn't that a song title?? Anyhow it was an enjoyable evening and we laughed and ate to much!!!
The Ray's won 3-2 over the Boston Baddies in the 10 th to stay even with the Yanks. I watched the Japan team beat the Taiwan team in a very good little league game and the the Hawaii team annihilated the team from Texas 10-0. This afternoon they play each other for the world championship. Should be a fun afternoon and the Ray's play Boston tonight on ESPN. Well better get out of here as its time to get ready for worship at Cornerstone in Sparta, N.C. LATER
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Friday
This morning's temps were in the high 50's and eventually made it to 78 with bright sunshine and blue skies. After our quiet time and lite breakfast we were heading back to the doctor's in Sparta for a check of my blood viscosity because of the heparin and cumadin I'm taking. Well I flunked the test so I must increase the cumadin as well as keeping taking these heparin shots in the belly until I head back to the doctor once again on Monday. At least the pain and swelling has been reduced to a manageable level with only Tylenol once a day and that's usually just before bed. I have increased my level of activity to at least incorporate a slow walk to the top of the mountain with many stops in between.
We stopped and visited with our senior lady friend Helen and her cat Teddy Roosevelt, she is close to 90 and lives alone. We next stopped and visited with our senior friend Norman who is such a funny guy from West Virginia and is at the ripe age of 83 and has such a great attitude. We really enjoy talking with him and his cat Thomas who thinks he's a dog. We next saw Mike and Nancy who were setting out mums and both of them have had such medical problems this past year and is probably the reason for listing their beautiful cabin with a realtor. She also suffered from a blood clot and is on cumadin for life.
We had a nice pleasant walk and it was good to visit with so many and I didn't feel any adverse effects from the outing, actually it felt good especially knowing others have beat this condition and survived to share their experience. We spent the afternoon reading and sunning on the side deck. We planned to head to the county fair grounds as our local church was sponsoring Christian recording artist Shawn McDonald live in concert. We saw and visited with several of our friends and church members before we left the concert about 9 and headed home. It was a fun evening and so good to see all we hadn't seen in over a month. LATER
We stopped and visited with our senior lady friend Helen and her cat Teddy Roosevelt, she is close to 90 and lives alone. We next stopped and visited with our senior friend Norman who is such a funny guy from West Virginia and is at the ripe age of 83 and has such a great attitude. We really enjoy talking with him and his cat Thomas who thinks he's a dog. We next saw Mike and Nancy who were setting out mums and both of them have had such medical problems this past year and is probably the reason for listing their beautiful cabin with a realtor. She also suffered from a blood clot and is on cumadin for life.
We had a nice pleasant walk and it was good to visit with so many and I didn't feel any adverse effects from the outing, actually it felt good especially knowing others have beat this condition and survived to share their experience. We spent the afternoon reading and sunning on the side deck. We planned to head to the county fair grounds as our local church was sponsoring Christian recording artist Shawn McDonald live in concert. We saw and visited with several of our friends and church members before we left the concert about 9 and headed home. It was a fun evening and so good to see all we hadn't seen in over a month. LATER
Friday, August 27, 2010
Thursday
Well it was just the beginning of a beautiful when we awakened to the sound of dew dripping from the roof line and crows cawling in the distance. The leg is starting to feel a little better with much of the swelling reduced as well as the "hot to touch" and redness is gone as well. After a lite breakfast and our quiet times I waited for Nurse Nancy to administer the first of two shots into my "love handles" for the day. I think this has gone to her head as she now tells me she always wanted to be a nurse instead of just being a "candy striper" as she once was while in high school at one of the local hospitals.
The sun was delightful with temps in the low 60's and 70's most of the day. I sat around once again resting "the leg" with it propped up on a pillow. After a lite lunch neighbor Gerald came by up from Raleigh and visited a few and offered to assist me with any chores that needed completing, great neighbor. I started a new book about a couple who just took off for the Carribean on a 38 foot sailboat for over a year. Now that floats my boat as well!!!
Old friend D.J. who we knew from Florida and now a resident of Clemmons, N.C. came by for a couple hours and we just sat around a visited. His 3 beautiful daughters are all in high school and the oldest is graduating this year, where did that time go?? We have know D.J. and his lovely wife Jenny forever and they just up and made the move from our area in Florida to N.C. a couple years ago and totally love it.
Nancy made a pot of chili beans for supper along with some corn bread muffins and wow was that ever good eating. After supper I spotted a large black hornets nest in the tall pine tree next to the deck so that entertained me for awhile as I used it for target practice with my BB gun. I had bees flying everywhere but they couldn't figure out what was tearing into their nest. Hopefully I shot enough holes in it that the rain we had night will cause it to tear apart and they will move on.
Well its Friday morning as you have guessed cause we had visitors from Ray and Audine until nearly 10 PM so I must get really for my 9 AM doctors appointment for my blood check. LATER
The sun was delightful with temps in the low 60's and 70's most of the day. I sat around once again resting "the leg" with it propped up on a pillow. After a lite lunch neighbor Gerald came by up from Raleigh and visited a few and offered to assist me with any chores that needed completing, great neighbor. I started a new book about a couple who just took off for the Carribean on a 38 foot sailboat for over a year. Now that floats my boat as well!!!
Old friend D.J. who we knew from Florida and now a resident of Clemmons, N.C. came by for a couple hours and we just sat around a visited. His 3 beautiful daughters are all in high school and the oldest is graduating this year, where did that time go?? We have know D.J. and his lovely wife Jenny forever and they just up and made the move from our area in Florida to N.C. a couple years ago and totally love it.
Nancy made a pot of chili beans for supper along with some corn bread muffins and wow was that ever good eating. After supper I spotted a large black hornets nest in the tall pine tree next to the deck so that entertained me for awhile as I used it for target practice with my BB gun. I had bees flying everywhere but they couldn't figure out what was tearing into their nest. Hopefully I shot enough holes in it that the rain we had night will cause it to tear apart and they will move on.
Well its Friday morning as you have guessed cause we had visitors from Ray and Audine until nearly 10 PM so I must get really for my 9 AM doctors appointment for my blood check. LATER
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Wednesday
Well the morning started out with fasting and a trip to the doctors in Sparta for a complete physical workup. Yikes it been awhile since I've had one of those. But I survived and seem to be on the mend with the good doctoring and my lovely bride of nearly 31 years sticking that needle in me. It's very difficult to be in such a beautiful place and not be able to do any work, or hike the mountain.
There really isn't much to write about with this convalescing except sitting and watching the grass grow but at least the Little League World Series is on from 2 PM until 10 PM so I'm really enjoying that. Well thanks for all the well wishes, phone calls and visits. About the only excitement happening now is another trip to the doctor office on Friday morning for a blood check. LATER
There really isn't much to write about with this convalescing except sitting and watching the grass grow but at least the Little League World Series is on from 2 PM until 10 PM so I'm really enjoying that. Well thanks for all the well wishes, phone calls and visits. About the only excitement happening now is another trip to the doctor office on Friday morning for a blood check. LATER
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tuesday
Well all kinds of things are happening here in cool North Carolina. It was in the 50's this morning and just a beautiful day until late afternoon when the clouds rolled in and a light rain fell. The morning started out with getting of bed at 6 so we could make and 8:30 doctor's appointment in Sparta. After a lite breakfast of leftover buckwheat cakes with a little fruit on top and our quiet times we got ready and headed out.
I'm really glad that Nancy persisted on me seeing a doctor for this left leg of mine as the swelling seemed to increase in the ankle and calf area as well as some redness and the dull ache just wouldn't go away. Maybe by now after reading the symptoms on Wed MD I was beginning to believe there was the possibility I may have a blood clot in my leg. The doctor took one look and felt of my calf and immediately sent me to the hospital for an ultrasound test and sure enough the technician confirmed there was a clot(s) below my knee. So I headed back over to the doctors office for a shot which I had the choice of hospitalization or Nancy administering the shot(s) twice a day into the belly fat. The drug was Heparin and later I was given a prescription for Coumadin. The doctor insisted he administer a full exam and blood workup tomorrow so I'm fasting till mid morning tomorrow.
I was at a loss as why or how I could get a clot in my leg and I do remember my first week back on the pickle ball courts to whacking myself in the leg with the paddle. Never would I have imagined that could have damaged a blood vessel but apparently it was enough to start the process. I over did a couple workouts on the elliptical as well as 2 full hours of play plus a swim all in the same day. I guess its time to act my age and be gentle on this body with regard to physical activity.
Doctor K reminded me there are about 150,000 folks who die from blood clots every year so he got my attention and just reinforced Nancy's diagnosis, (boy is that tough to live with) who all along said I should have it checked for a blood clot. Well she is doing a good job with her needling of me,(pun intented). I have noticed the ankle swelling has decreased but the leg ache is still there and the calf muscle is still large. It may take days or even weeks to regulate the proper amount of coumadin for my body and this will being my first prescription may last from 3-6 months, YUCK its rat poison I've heard. At least its reasonable whereas the Heparin is outrageously expensive at 250 bucks a shot, Oh well!!
Well its time for bed and there is a soft rain falling on the tin roof. Well thanks to all who held me up in their thought and prayers, LATER.
I'm really glad that Nancy persisted on me seeing a doctor for this left leg of mine as the swelling seemed to increase in the ankle and calf area as well as some redness and the dull ache just wouldn't go away. Maybe by now after reading the symptoms on Wed MD I was beginning to believe there was the possibility I may have a blood clot in my leg. The doctor took one look and felt of my calf and immediately sent me to the hospital for an ultrasound test and sure enough the technician confirmed there was a clot(s) below my knee. So I headed back over to the doctors office for a shot which I had the choice of hospitalization or Nancy administering the shot(s) twice a day into the belly fat. The drug was Heparin and later I was given a prescription for Coumadin. The doctor insisted he administer a full exam and blood workup tomorrow so I'm fasting till mid morning tomorrow.
I was at a loss as why or how I could get a clot in my leg and I do remember my first week back on the pickle ball courts to whacking myself in the leg with the paddle. Never would I have imagined that could have damaged a blood vessel but apparently it was enough to start the process. I over did a couple workouts on the elliptical as well as 2 full hours of play plus a swim all in the same day. I guess its time to act my age and be gentle on this body with regard to physical activity.
Doctor K reminded me there are about 150,000 folks who die from blood clots every year so he got my attention and just reinforced Nancy's diagnosis, (boy is that tough to live with) who all along said I should have it checked for a blood clot. Well she is doing a good job with her needling of me,(pun intented). I have noticed the ankle swelling has decreased but the leg ache is still there and the calf muscle is still large. It may take days or even weeks to regulate the proper amount of coumadin for my body and this will being my first prescription may last from 3-6 months, YUCK its rat poison I've heard. At least its reasonable whereas the Heparin is outrageously expensive at 250 bucks a shot, Oh well!!
Well its time for bed and there is a soft rain falling on the tin roof. Well thanks to all who held me up in their thought and prayers, LATER.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Monday
Well it was 60 degrees this morning(brrrrr) when we are use lows in the 80's and highs in the 90+ with heat index's in the 100's, 60 is nippy. It's 58 at 8 PM right now. What a beautiful day it was with a high of 77, bright sunshine and coolness in the shaded areas. The dew was so heavy this morning I wasn't able to mow until around 2 PM. After our quiet times Nancy made some great buckwheat pancakes with a banana in the batter. Man are they ever good and when your outside working they really stick to your ribs.
After breakfast I worked my blackberry must which had been cooking while we were in Florida. Hopefully it will turn out O.K. I did a little garden work while the grass was so wet from the dew and then weed whacked the property. Nancy was busy pulling weeds from her flower gardens, deadheading and thinning out some lilies that have gone wild. We didn't try to get a hike in today as walking up and down this property was enough exercise. My left calf muscle and ankle is still swollen so Nancy made an appointment with a doctor for me just to be safe in case I have a deep muscle blood clot. According to Wed MD I have several symptoms for that problem, Oh well. I've been icing it 2-3 times a day and it will not go down.
We fried up a yellow squash(home grown) and a green tomato for supper along with a wrap of cheese, tomato, cuke, onion, jalapeno and green olives. Yeow was that ever tasty. Well I can sure feel the muscles after walking up and down the yards today. Its amazing how quickly you can get out of shape. We sure missed seeing our little Ava and Samuel today. LATER
After breakfast I worked my blackberry must which had been cooking while we were in Florida. Hopefully it will turn out O.K. I did a little garden work while the grass was so wet from the dew and then weed whacked the property. Nancy was busy pulling weeds from her flower gardens, deadheading and thinning out some lilies that have gone wild. We didn't try to get a hike in today as walking up and down this property was enough exercise. My left calf muscle and ankle is still swollen so Nancy made an appointment with a doctor for me just to be safe in case I have a deep muscle blood clot. According to Wed MD I have several symptoms for that problem, Oh well. I've been icing it 2-3 times a day and it will not go down.
We fried up a yellow squash(home grown) and a green tomato for supper along with a wrap of cheese, tomato, cuke, onion, jalapeno and green olives. Yeow was that ever tasty. Well I can sure feel the muscles after walking up and down the yards today. Its amazing how quickly you can get out of shape. We sure missed seeing our little Ava and Samuel today. LATER
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Saturday and Sunday
Well Saturday was another "cooker" and we both felt like a change was in order. After our quiet times and bowl of oatmeal I got down our luggage from the attic and we began to put the house in order so we could leave early on Sunday morning for the cabin. We pulled out at 4:30 AM after a sleepless night, actually I did sleep until 1:17 AM after turning out the light around 10, that's very unusual for me as I get so keyed up about traveling. Anyhow after packing and doing some honey do chores like spraying the outside window sills for bugs, the eves and the garage area I settled down to ice my swollen ankle. I'm not really sure why its so swollen as there is very little pain associated with the swelling, anyhow we headed over to Amy's for supper and to visit with the grand babies until about 7:30.
Sunday morning was in the 90's when we left for the cabin and it was a cool 80 when we arrived and its starting to cool down even further as I write. After unpacking I did a little garden evaluation and was able to gather a couple cukes and a few tomato's the deer missed. We sliced them up for supper and my were they tasty. Neighbor Gerald came by to say goodbye as he was heading back to Raleigh on his motor. We were pleasantly surprised and most thankful that he had mowed our yard for us this past week end. Our rain gauge showed 7 inches since last Monday, wow was that ever needed as its been a heat wave here as well as Florida.
Well I'm starting to crash especially since getting back from our hike to the top, we saw Sarah, Fred and Brenda on top and visited just briefly. The katydids and cicadas are so loud we almost have to close the window while talking. Well it sure feels good to be back in this beautiful piece of GOD'S creation and we just pinch ourselves to make sure this isn't a dream. LATER
Sunday morning was in the 90's when we left for the cabin and it was a cool 80 when we arrived and its starting to cool down even further as I write. After unpacking I did a little garden evaluation and was able to gather a couple cukes and a few tomato's the deer missed. We sliced them up for supper and my were they tasty. Neighbor Gerald came by to say goodbye as he was heading back to Raleigh on his motor. We were pleasantly surprised and most thankful that he had mowed our yard for us this past week end. Our rain gauge showed 7 inches since last Monday, wow was that ever needed as its been a heat wave here as well as Florida.
Well I'm starting to crash especially since getting back from our hike to the top, we saw Sarah, Fred and Brenda on top and visited just briefly. The katydids and cicadas are so loud we almost have to close the window while talking. Well it sure feels good to be back in this beautiful piece of GOD'S creation and we just pinch ourselves to make sure this isn't a dream. LATER
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Friday
Well the morning was another "cooker" with humidity so thick one could slice it with a knife. After our quiet time and oatmeal I headed outside to do some yard work; mowing, bush trimming and I even dug up the dirt pile around the big oak in front and sowed some Pensacola Bahia grass seed. Sometimes I think I'm just wasting my time in the front yard as this enormous oak tree just sucks up all the nutrients and of course everything dies except of course old weeds, Oh well!!
I should have lost 5 pounds of weight from all the sweating I did so I just took it easy the rest of the day. Amy came with Ava and Sam for lunch and we played hard. They hung around until it was time for naps, mine included. We just read and I found another great travel blog with tons of pictures so that kept me busy until it was time to head to Riverview.
We headed out about 5:30 and picked up neighbor Carol and Amy. The girls were having a black dress and heels baby shower for Jill at their neighborhood rec building while Bobby made and outstanding smoked sausage sandwich with tater tots and corn on the cob(shucks left on). Wow was that ever a good supper. We entertained Annsley. It was close to 10 or after before we headed back across the Bay. It was a fun evening for all and Baby Gabriel received lots of goodies. Thanks to all for making this a fun time for Jill as she is so ready to deliver him.
Well Saturday will be get ready to head out for N.C. early Sunday morning. Hope to once again reconnect with all of our "mountain family and friends" there for a couple weeks before heading to Florida for Gabriel's birth around the end of September. We will be away from this keyboard a day or so. LATER
I should have lost 5 pounds of weight from all the sweating I did so I just took it easy the rest of the day. Amy came with Ava and Sam for lunch and we played hard. They hung around until it was time for naps, mine included. We just read and I found another great travel blog with tons of pictures so that kept me busy until it was time to head to Riverview.
We headed out about 5:30 and picked up neighbor Carol and Amy. The girls were having a black dress and heels baby shower for Jill at their neighborhood rec building while Bobby made and outstanding smoked sausage sandwich with tater tots and corn on the cob(shucks left on). Wow was that ever a good supper. We entertained Annsley. It was close to 10 or after before we headed back across the Bay. It was a fun evening for all and Baby Gabriel received lots of goodies. Thanks to all for making this a fun time for Jill as she is so ready to deliver him.
Well Saturday will be get ready to head out for N.C. early Sunday morning. Hope to once again reconnect with all of our "mountain family and friends" there for a couple weeks before heading to Florida for Gabriel's birth around the end of September. We will be away from this keyboard a day or so. LATER
Friday, August 20, 2010
Thursday
Well things are looking a little better as Nancy's thigh is starting to heal and I can walk without pain in the calf muscle. Still not 100 % but hopefully will be in a few days especially since I've got mountains to hike, garden to hoe, trees to saw down and saw up(that sounds weird), yards to mow and weeds to pull if and when we get back to the cabin. Wow, life is so exciting there!!! After our quiet times and bowl of oatmeal we headed over to Nancy's folks to cut tree limbs that were encroaching on his back yard from a neighbors and trimmed hedges and bushes around their house. Couple hours later we are home with sweat soaked shirts but it felt good to be able to do some work for a change.
Amy came with Ava and Sam for lunch and stayed until around 2 when it was nap time for both the kids and me. Yikes I'm sure gonna miss those afternoon naps but with being active at the cabin maybe I will miss a few pounds that I've found around my waist and other parts. Oh well!!! We were having Nancy's folks(GG & Pap), Amy, Tyler and the kids for a dinner tonight of pork roast, Nathan dogs, smashed spuds and sauerkraut YUMMMM!! This is one of my all time favorite feeds.There were leftover cupcakes from house church last night so they cleaned them up as well for dessert. I haven't had dessert in days but still manage to have this spare tire, oh well!!!
After they all left for home I watched the Ray's and the A's until late as its a 10PM start for us because of playing in Oakland. Wow it was in the 50's there. I remember those days when I would teach tennis about 50 miles away in Fairfield, Ca and it would be in the 100's during the day and then head down to the Bay Area('Frisco and Oakland) and you would need a coat after dark. There is no a/c out there or at least back in the 60's. That was a long time ago..where did that time go?? Anyhow the Ray's lost a close one but we are just a game behind the Yank's our nemesis in the division.
Well today is yard work around here and tonight its over to visit son Bobby and his family in Riverview. Bob is making dinner and he and I will entertain Annsley while Jill is at a baby shower for Baby Gabriel along with Nancy, Amy and Carol from this side of the bay. LATER
Amy came with Ava and Sam for lunch and stayed until around 2 when it was nap time for both the kids and me. Yikes I'm sure gonna miss those afternoon naps but with being active at the cabin maybe I will miss a few pounds that I've found around my waist and other parts. Oh well!!! We were having Nancy's folks(GG & Pap), Amy, Tyler and the kids for a dinner tonight of pork roast, Nathan dogs, smashed spuds and sauerkraut YUMMMM!! This is one of my all time favorite feeds.There were leftover cupcakes from house church last night so they cleaned them up as well for dessert. I haven't had dessert in days but still manage to have this spare tire, oh well!!!
After they all left for home I watched the Ray's and the A's until late as its a 10PM start for us because of playing in Oakland. Wow it was in the 50's there. I remember those days when I would teach tennis about 50 miles away in Fairfield, Ca and it would be in the 100's during the day and then head down to the Bay Area('Frisco and Oakland) and you would need a coat after dark. There is no a/c out there or at least back in the 60's. That was a long time ago..where did that time go?? Anyhow the Ray's lost a close one but we are just a game behind the Yank's our nemesis in the division.
Well today is yard work around here and tonight its over to visit son Bobby and his family in Riverview. Bob is making dinner and he and I will entertain Annsley while Jill is at a baby shower for Baby Gabriel along with Nancy, Amy and Carol from this side of the bay. LATER
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Wednesday
Once again it was another one of those days where eggs would fry on the sidewalk. After our quiet times and a bowl of Cheerios with a banana I retired to the computer sitting on my fanny. I'm disgusted with this healing process of my left calf muscle. It didn't take long to injure it; why is it taking over a week and its still not right. Oh well!!
Nancy and I headed to Home Depot then Sam's and back to Home Depot( always check your receipt before leaving the store, we didn't and the cashier added someone elses merchandise on our bill, I thought it was a little more $13 bucks more, but didn't notice it until we got to Sam's). We got back after getting a few items for another family dinner on Thursday. After a lite lunch I pulled up the couch and watched a 1PM game between the Ray's and the Texan's and once again the bats came to life for the Ray's winning 8-6. They are headed to the west coast for games with Oakland and Los Angeles, Go Ray's!!!
After the game we had a lite supper of flounder, rice and wild acre peas and then got ready to head out for house church. They were 20+ including kids and we said our good-byes as we will miss the next 4 weeks. Nancy and Amy made a ton of cupcakes for dessert of which I was strong and stayed at least 2 arms length away. I've put on 5 pounds just this last week since I haven't played pickle ball or worked out.
Well Thursday will find me heading over to the in-laws for some yard work in the morning,maybe I can sweat 5 pounds off, should be easy here with the humidity. The dinner tonight is one of my fav's with roast pork, smashed spuds and sauerkraut, oops another inch and a pound on the tummy!! LATER
Nancy and I headed to Home Depot then Sam's and back to Home Depot( always check your receipt before leaving the store, we didn't and the cashier added someone elses merchandise on our bill, I thought it was a little more $13 bucks more, but didn't notice it until we got to Sam's). We got back after getting a few items for another family dinner on Thursday. After a lite lunch I pulled up the couch and watched a 1PM game between the Ray's and the Texan's and once again the bats came to life for the Ray's winning 8-6. They are headed to the west coast for games with Oakland and Los Angeles, Go Ray's!!!
After the game we had a lite supper of flounder, rice and wild acre peas and then got ready to head out for house church. They were 20+ including kids and we said our good-byes as we will miss the next 4 weeks. Nancy and Amy made a ton of cupcakes for dessert of which I was strong and stayed at least 2 arms length away. I've put on 5 pounds just this last week since I haven't played pickle ball or worked out.
Well Thursday will find me heading over to the in-laws for some yard work in the morning,maybe I can sweat 5 pounds off, should be easy here with the humidity. The dinner tonight is one of my fav's with roast pork, smashed spuds and sauerkraut, oops another inch and a pound on the tummy!! LATER
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Tuesday
Well once again it was a typical Hot and Muggy day, after our quiet times and oatmeal Nancy headed out to Babies R US with Amy, GG and the grand babes for shower gifts for baby Gabriel. I just chilled catching up on some paperwork, filing and reading. I'm still icing the calf muscle and it seems to be helping enough so that after the kids left after lunch we both headed to the rec. Nancy wanted to test out her thigh and I wanted to see if the calf muscle was responding treatment. Well we both did an abbreviated workout with me just walking on the treadmill for about 25 minutes at a less than normal speed and Nancy did about 35 minutes. I could feel my muscle starting to ache so I switched to some upper body reps while she said her thigh felt somewhat better. She had so much energy she walked the hood after supper for about 20 minutes.
I sat around and iced my calf once again while watching the Ray's annihilate the Texan's 10-1. Our bats have finally come alive and hopefully will stay wake through the playoffs, GO RAY'S!!! We were awakened just after midnight to the sound of a horrific storm with thunder, lightening and rain. The street out front looked like a river. What a storm!! Well not much new here except off to Home Depot and Sam's this morning as we are having another family dinner on Thursday as we get ready to leave Sunday morning. LATER
I sat around and iced my calf once again while watching the Ray's annihilate the Texan's 10-1. Our bats have finally come alive and hopefully will stay wake through the playoffs, GO RAY'S!!! We were awakened just after midnight to the sound of a horrific storm with thunder, lightening and rain. The street out front looked like a river. What a storm!! Well not much new here except off to Home Depot and Sam's this morning as we are having another family dinner on Thursday as we get ready to leave Sunday morning. LATER
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Monday
Once again its a typical Florida day with 90's and scattered thundershowers, I wonder why we pay these weathermen big bucks cause I'm just a country boy and I can predict the weather for here in the summertime, oh well. The day was boring for me as I'm still resting my calf muscle and icing it a couple times a day. I sure missed playing pickle ball with the gang on Monday and may try to get in a little play on Thursday. I'm heading to the rec to do a little workout on the upper body this afternoon along with Nancy as she has recovered from her thigh strain as well. Is this the first sign of growing old? I don't like it if it is cause I want to run, play and be active on my feet working.
Amy and the grand kids came for lunch and we had such a grand time playing with them. Sam is shooting up and just loves to smile. Ava is now in her make believe stage with her dollies and carries on conversations, so cute.After they left for afternoon naps I once again iced the calf and read, the muscle is feeling much better so far but I'm still on those anti-inflammatory pills and that's not my style.
Nancy made a big pot of spaghetti sauce for dinner as Amy and the kids were coming to eat with us as Tyler was off to the Ray's vs Texas at the Trop. Well what a game as they came from behind once again to defeat one of the better pitchers I've seen this year. This Clift Lee has walked only 9 batters all year, that's amazing anyhow we won the game in the 8th and I think we are tied once again for the lead in our division with the Yankee's.
Well not much else going on except I'm starting to catch up on some of the work that needs to be done at the cabin in my sleep. Wouldn't it be nice if it really worked that way; you dream about it and when you wake up its done. Can't wait to to once again smell that fresh never before breathed mountain air, smell those beautiful flowers, hear the songs of the birds and see all of our friends there, play games and eat too much. No wonder the hills are calling my name. LATER
Amy and the grand kids came for lunch and we had such a grand time playing with them. Sam is shooting up and just loves to smile. Ava is now in her make believe stage with her dollies and carries on conversations, so cute.After they left for afternoon naps I once again iced the calf and read, the muscle is feeling much better so far but I'm still on those anti-inflammatory pills and that's not my style.
Nancy made a big pot of spaghetti sauce for dinner as Amy and the kids were coming to eat with us as Tyler was off to the Ray's vs Texas at the Trop. Well what a game as they came from behind once again to defeat one of the better pitchers I've seen this year. This Clift Lee has walked only 9 batters all year, that's amazing anyhow we won the game in the 8th and I think we are tied once again for the lead in our division with the Yankee's.
Well not much else going on except I'm starting to catch up on some of the work that needs to be done at the cabin in my sleep. Wouldn't it be nice if it really worked that way; you dream about it and when you wake up its done. Can't wait to to once again smell that fresh never before breathed mountain air, smell those beautiful flowers, hear the songs of the birds and see all of our friends there, play games and eat too much. No wonder the hills are calling my name. LATER
Monday, August 16, 2010
Sunday
Well the morning was another sunshine day with the temps reaching quickly into the 90's. After our quiet times and the usual bowl of oatmeal we got ready to travel to Tampa for worship at Element. The extra ibuprofen I took before hitting the sack and wrap seemed to help with the ache in my calf. I could still feel the muscle pain but at least the constant ache was gone.
Worship was awesome with such a super friendly group of worshippers. The night before was their first VBS ever at Element and the theme was western so several of the kiddies came out and serenaded us with a couple songs they had learned along with the video on the screen. Bobby had a great message about taking ownership in church, commitment and responsibility. Great message, son!!
We headed on home to feast on leftover(s); ribs, spuds and broccoli. I loaded up on anti-inflammatory tablets once again as well as propped the leg up on an ice pack and settled in to watch the Ray's win with a rookie pitcher over the Orioles. Just a game back from the Yankee's so maybe we can keep this edge going as their bats were finally coming to life. Go Ray's!!!
I sure miss physical exercises and wet shirts but I'm committed to healing this calf muscle before we head out next Sunday for the cabin. There, its all about walking up and down uneven ground so I must have this muscle healed. Well will close for now, LATER.
Worship was awesome with such a super friendly group of worshippers. The night before was their first VBS ever at Element and the theme was western so several of the kiddies came out and serenaded us with a couple songs they had learned along with the video on the screen. Bobby had a great message about taking ownership in church, commitment and responsibility. Great message, son!!
We headed on home to feast on leftover(s); ribs, spuds and broccoli. I loaded up on anti-inflammatory tablets once again as well as propped the leg up on an ice pack and settled in to watch the Ray's win with a rookie pitcher over the Orioles. Just a game back from the Yankee's so maybe we can keep this edge going as their bats were finally coming to life. Go Ray's!!!
I sure miss physical exercises and wet shirts but I'm committed to healing this calf muscle before we head out next Sunday for the cabin. There, its all about walking up and down uneven ground so I must have this muscle healed. Well will close for now, LATER.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Saturday
Well it started out as another warm one but no rain so we decided that after out quiet times and a light breakfast we would pick up grand daughter Ava and head to Redington Beach. Neighbors Dan and Carol were taking their grand son Shane so it would be a good outing for the little ones as well as for us. Well I should have realized last week that after I went swimming with Annsley and my calf muscle began to ache and throb later in the evening that swimming was not good for that prior strained muscle.
Well I did a bunch of swimming in the Gulf and it felt fine until late evening when a constant ache nearly drove me crazy. Finally after icing it again, eating ibuprofen like gum drops and wrapping it with an ace bandage I feel a little relief. I managed a little sleep Saturday but still is aching this AM. I'm debating if the trip to Tampa for Element is the smart thing to do. Oh well if this is what you get with old age I'm over it. I've always been a fast healer and seldom have I ever been layed up but this has been going on for a week. I guess playing pickle ball twice last week didn't help so I'm considering laying off this whole next week. I need to be able to walk up and down the cabin property as well as drive 700 miles next week end.
We had a good time at the beach and ran into fellow pickle baller Ric and his wife Marcia there as well. The kids had a great time as did we until the late afternoon when that muscle began to act up. We kept the grand kids while Amy and Tyler had a date night with dinner and a movie out. I did receive a little comfort while watching the Ray's finally get back to hitting the baseball and defeating the Orioles 7-3. The Bucs were some comfort as well in the first half with the first stringers as they beat the Dolphins but ended up losing the pre-season by a close score with 4 turnovers. Anyhow if the league is as good as the Dolphins then we have a chance to be better than our 3-13 record from last year.
I hate to just lay around or take it easy as that's not my nature but the thought of not being able to hike, saw wood, do garden work and just walk up and down stairs and hills has me thinking about what I should do this next week to get ready to head back to the cabin. Work is my relaxation up there so I will have to give up one of my joys for another and that's pickle ball and swimming. Our mountain mom says the deer have just about eaten the garden up but there will be lots of other fun things to do beside gardening as we hope to be able to spend a couple weeks there before having to head back for the birth of our second grandson, Gabriel. Did I mention Samuel has 2 teeth peeking through on his lower gum. LATER
Well I did a bunch of swimming in the Gulf and it felt fine until late evening when a constant ache nearly drove me crazy. Finally after icing it again, eating ibuprofen like gum drops and wrapping it with an ace bandage I feel a little relief. I managed a little sleep Saturday but still is aching this AM. I'm debating if the trip to Tampa for Element is the smart thing to do. Oh well if this is what you get with old age I'm over it. I've always been a fast healer and seldom have I ever been layed up but this has been going on for a week. I guess playing pickle ball twice last week didn't help so I'm considering laying off this whole next week. I need to be able to walk up and down the cabin property as well as drive 700 miles next week end.
We had a good time at the beach and ran into fellow pickle baller Ric and his wife Marcia there as well. The kids had a great time as did we until the late afternoon when that muscle began to act up. We kept the grand kids while Amy and Tyler had a date night with dinner and a movie out. I did receive a little comfort while watching the Ray's finally get back to hitting the baseball and defeating the Orioles 7-3. The Bucs were some comfort as well in the first half with the first stringers as they beat the Dolphins but ended up losing the pre-season by a close score with 4 turnovers. Anyhow if the league is as good as the Dolphins then we have a chance to be better than our 3-13 record from last year.
I hate to just lay around or take it easy as that's not my nature but the thought of not being able to hike, saw wood, do garden work and just walk up and down stairs and hills has me thinking about what I should do this next week to get ready to head back to the cabin. Work is my relaxation up there so I will have to give up one of my joys for another and that's pickle ball and swimming. Our mountain mom says the deer have just about eaten the garden up but there will be lots of other fun things to do beside gardening as we hope to be able to spend a couple weeks there before having to head back for the birth of our second grandson, Gabriel. Did I mention Samuel has 2 teeth peeking through on his lower gum. LATER
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Friday
Well once again another Hot and muggy day, but that is typical of Florida this time of the year. The rain held off yesterday. After our quiet times and our typical bowl of boring oatmeal we did some little things around the house and put some chicken breasts in a marinate for dinner this evening with neighbors and friends Dan and Carol. Nancy did her signature oven spuds as well as a great fresh salad(store bought) but yummy and Carol brought cauliflower in a cheese sauce. The dinner was great and we sat around afterwards until after 9 and caught up while watching the Ray's get it handed to them with another shutout by the worse team in our division,the Orioles. Yikes whats going on with the boys of summer??
Nancy, Amy and the kids took GG shopping in the morning and they came back for lunch. We played with the kiddies until it was time for their nap then after they left we chilled as I placed an ice pack on Nancy's thigh and did some hot, cold treatments on my calf. We aren't sure how we both ended up with strained muscles at the same time, but we both seem to be recovering albeit slowly.
Well we are heading to the beach this AM for a couple hours with Dan and Carol to work on the tan and maybe get a little exercise walking in the surf. We are watching Ava and Sam this evening as their parents to a date night before we head out next Sunday for the cabin.LATER
Nancy, Amy and the kids took GG shopping in the morning and they came back for lunch. We played with the kiddies until it was time for their nap then after they left we chilled as I placed an ice pack on Nancy's thigh and did some hot, cold treatments on my calf. We aren't sure how we both ended up with strained muscles at the same time, but we both seem to be recovering albeit slowly.
Well we are heading to the beach this AM for a couple hours with Dan and Carol to work on the tan and maybe get a little exercise walking in the surf. We are watching Ava and Sam this evening as their parents to a date night before we head out next Sunday for the cabin.LATER
Friday, August 13, 2010
Thursday
Well we were awaken by a strong rain shower but that was it for the day. After our quiet times Nancy took off to drive her mother to the beauty parlor for a hair appointment and I got the smoker ready to put ribs on after I got back from pickle ball around 1 PM. Bobby gave me a nice chunk of cherry wood which is supposed to be really good in the smoker so I split it and then sawed it into chunks and immersed them into a bucket of water. I headed out to the library to pickup a couple reads before heading to the rec.
If you want to read a really great read by Paul Theroux titled the Mosquito Coast its a fun book with lots of real family adventure. I read about 1/3 of it yesterday and I'm dreading that it will end so soon. Its so much fun to read and at the same time it has lots of truths about our way of living. Read it, you will have to pay close attention in the beginning to understand the book is being told by the oldest son about his father and the rest of the family. Interesting!!!
We had about 16 players for pickle ball today with some really good games and lots of wet shirts. It was good to reacquaint with some I hadn't seen since May. The caliber of play has definitely gone up for some which only enhances the over all play for the group. After 2 hours I headed home in the heat on the bike. After a quick bite I started the ribs in the smoker with the cherry wood. Amy and the grand babies where there and stayed until about 2 when it was time to head home for the afternoon naps. I was still having some discomfort in my calf from last week so I iced it down for about a half hour then just relaxed on the bed reading.
We had the family over last night for a sumptuous dinner of ribs, potato casserole, broccoli and cold slaw. We were trying not to eat any dessert but both kids wanted chocolate chip cookies which Nancy made about 8 PM. Oh well!! We had a great feast of ribs which undoubtedly was the best tasting with the cherry wood flavor, even better than hickory. So if any of you have access to fruit trees be sure and save the wood for your smoker.
Well we had a great time with the little ones as they played hard and of course the food was great and once again we ate way to much. It seems Nancy's dad is improving daily and is back to driving as his swelling in the feet and legs have subsided and he seems to be in better shape all around so with that bit of news it seems we are planning on heading back to mountains on Sunday the 22nd for a couple weeks before we head back for the birth of Gabriel some time around the end of September. Those are the plans as I write this post. LATER
If you want to read a really great read by Paul Theroux titled the Mosquito Coast its a fun book with lots of real family adventure. I read about 1/3 of it yesterday and I'm dreading that it will end so soon. Its so much fun to read and at the same time it has lots of truths about our way of living. Read it, you will have to pay close attention in the beginning to understand the book is being told by the oldest son about his father and the rest of the family. Interesting!!!
We had about 16 players for pickle ball today with some really good games and lots of wet shirts. It was good to reacquaint with some I hadn't seen since May. The caliber of play has definitely gone up for some which only enhances the over all play for the group. After 2 hours I headed home in the heat on the bike. After a quick bite I started the ribs in the smoker with the cherry wood. Amy and the grand babies where there and stayed until about 2 when it was time to head home for the afternoon naps. I was still having some discomfort in my calf from last week so I iced it down for about a half hour then just relaxed on the bed reading.
We had the family over last night for a sumptuous dinner of ribs, potato casserole, broccoli and cold slaw. We were trying not to eat any dessert but both kids wanted chocolate chip cookies which Nancy made about 8 PM. Oh well!! We had a great feast of ribs which undoubtedly was the best tasting with the cherry wood flavor, even better than hickory. So if any of you have access to fruit trees be sure and save the wood for your smoker.
Well we had a great time with the little ones as they played hard and of course the food was great and once again we ate way to much. It seems Nancy's dad is improving daily and is back to driving as his swelling in the feet and legs have subsided and he seems to be in better shape all around so with that bit of news it seems we are planning on heading back to mountains on Sunday the 22nd for a couple weeks before we head back for the birth of Gabriel some time around the end of September. Those are the plans as I write this post. LATER
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Wednesday
Well there is no doubt that Florida has returned from its drought conditions from the past couple years as it rains here 3-4 times a day. What a welcomed relief but the humidity along with the mosquitoes have made in unbearable to be outside after dark and even during the daylight hours. It feels like a rainforest. We took off after our quiet times and boring oatmeal breakfast for Sam's Club as we are having the family over for ribs on the smoker for dinner tonight(Thursday).
It seems W.B.(Nancy's dad) is getting better and there is a remote possibility we may be able to head back to N.C. for a couple weeks or until its time for Jill to give birth to Gabriel which is slated around the 23 rd of Sept, give or take a few days either way. We are hoping to leave out on Sunday the 22nd if he continues to improve.
Well we had house church last night and we were short in numbers but still managed 16 there including 4 kids. There is talk of starting another house church on a different day in a different local as well, to meet the needs of those who miss because school, work, etc. We made and shared homemade pizzas and salads and a few desserts. Nancy and I refrained from the last but the cobbler sure looked good.
Well the Ray's lost a close one 3-2 to the Tigers yesterday in Detroit. We learned neice Arrianne and nephew Pat were at the game, we looked for you on the TV but to no avail as there were 28 thousand fans there. Well better close as today is pickle ball then it will be time to get the ribs on. I'm using some cherry wood to smoke today that Bobby gave me. LATER
It seems W.B.(Nancy's dad) is getting better and there is a remote possibility we may be able to head back to N.C. for a couple weeks or until its time for Jill to give birth to Gabriel which is slated around the 23 rd of Sept, give or take a few days either way. We are hoping to leave out on Sunday the 22nd if he continues to improve.
Well we had house church last night and we were short in numbers but still managed 16 there including 4 kids. There is talk of starting another house church on a different day in a different local as well, to meet the needs of those who miss because school, work, etc. We made and shared homemade pizzas and salads and a few desserts. Nancy and I refrained from the last but the cobbler sure looked good.
Well the Ray's lost a close one 3-2 to the Tigers yesterday in Detroit. We learned neice Arrianne and nephew Pat were at the game, we looked for you on the TV but to no avail as there were 28 thousand fans there. Well better close as today is pickle ball then it will be time to get the ribs on. I'm using some cherry wood to smoke today that Bobby gave me. LATER
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Tuesday
Well another day with hot temps and some very heavy rain showers off and on most of the day. After our quiet times and a boring breakfast of oatmeal I headed off to the barber shop to have my ears lowered. Nancy took off to drive her folks to the doctor's office. Amy came by for lunch and I played with the grand babies. It was really a non script day.
After the kids left around 2 for their naps we caught up on some reading until it was time to grille a couple steaks for dinner. We had some really tasty Brussels sprouts and sliced beets along with some sliced tomato's. Not much else happening except the Ray's have put 2 back to back wins. Go Rays. LATER
After the kids left around 2 for their naps we caught up on some reading until it was time to grille a couple steaks for dinner. We had some really tasty Brussels sprouts and sliced beets along with some sliced tomato's. Not much else happening except the Ray's have put 2 back to back wins. Go Rays. LATER
Monday
Well it was a rather low key day, after our morning quiet times and FB checks I headed out on the bike to the rec. I got in 2 good hours of workout with about a dozen other players with some really good play at times. I got back home a little after 1 o'clock and had a bite of lunch then played with Ava and Sam until it was time for them to head home for afternoon naps. Sam has 2 teeth popping through on his lower gum. He is such a smiley and never a fussy baby, wow!!!
After Amy and the kids left we just chilled and caught up on some reading until it was time to start dinner. Nancy's leg is just slightly better but still needs time to heal as we are massaging, ultra sound and using lots of Bengay. We had a low calorie dinner of grilled salmon, wild acre peas(black eyes beans) and salad. Its an attempt to hold down the fat in our diets as she is unable to exercise. We sat around after dinner and watched the Ray's break a 5 game losing streak with a win over the Tigers. Go Ray's!!! LATER
After Amy and the kids left we just chilled and caught up on some reading until it was time to start dinner. Nancy's leg is just slightly better but still needs time to heal as we are massaging, ultra sound and using lots of Bengay. We had a low calorie dinner of grilled salmon, wild acre peas(black eyes beans) and salad. Its an attempt to hold down the fat in our diets as she is unable to exercise. We sat around after dinner and watched the Ray's break a 5 game losing streak with a win over the Tigers. Go Ray's!!! LATER
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Sunday
Well its not very often we miss a Sunday service but Nancy was feeling so bad last night and this morning with her left leg we felt it was best she stay off it, especially getting in and out of the truck. I gave her a couple ultrasound treatments throughout the day and it seemed to help as long as she stayed off her feet. I dug out an old crutch and she used that to help take some of the stress off as well.
We watched the Ray's get blown out again by the Jays pitching with 17 strikeouts in one game and yesterday they gave up 17 runs in one game. I don't think we look like a playoff contender team, oh well!!After the game Nancy felt well enough to head over to her folks for a birthday celebration for nephew Braden. GG fixed a pork roast with smashed spuds and gravy and the rest of us brought carrots, salad and bread. GG also made a carrot cake which I passed as we still have half a zucchini cake leftover from Friday.
Well not much else is going on as I tried to get interested in preseason football game between the Cowboys and Bengals. It was actually kind of boring being a Buc fan. Well will get out of here for now, Later
We watched the Ray's get blown out again by the Jays pitching with 17 strikeouts in one game and yesterday they gave up 17 runs in one game. I don't think we look like a playoff contender team, oh well!!After the game Nancy felt well enough to head over to her folks for a birthday celebration for nephew Braden. GG fixed a pork roast with smashed spuds and gravy and the rest of us brought carrots, salad and bread. GG also made a carrot cake which I passed as we still have half a zucchini cake leftover from Friday.
Well not much else is going on as I tried to get interested in preseason football game between the Cowboys and Bengals. It was actually kind of boring being a Buc fan. Well will get out of here for now, Later
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Saturday
Well we actually slept in until 8 AM, that is quite unusual for us as the internal alarm usually is set for 6 or so. The morning found us getting ready to say goodby to our house guests for the past 9 days, our nephews Evan and Pat who are 2 of 11 kids from her brother Eric have been visiting so as to get a little grand father time in with Will(Pap), Nancy's dad. We did what we could to entertain them but there wasn't a whole bunch to do as it was so hot and muggy outside, anyhow we did get some rec time in with them.
After breakfast I mowed the front and back yards then pulled a few weeds in the garden before heading out to the rec for about an hour workout on the elliptical and slant board for crunches. I had a good wet shirt by the time I stopped off at the library and then rode home on the bike.
We had a lite lunch as we were planning on a big family celebration at the Acropolis in Riverview. This was our second time there and the food was plenty and delicious and Ava and Annsley just loved the OPA dancers, throwing of napkins and breaking of plates. There eyes got so big when a long line of dancers came out and wove their way around our tables. It definitely was a fun time had by all and thanks again Bobby and Amy for making my birthday special with dinner and a gift card. We said good night to the Ross's after dinner as they headed back to Seminole and we headed off to visit Bobby's in laws for about an hour. Brian and Susan(Jill's parents) remodeled a fixer upper house in a nice neighbor and have done a first class job. The house has changed so much both inside and out and is very nice.
Well it seems Nancy has either pinched a nerve or pulled a muscle in her left leg and is having a lot of difficulty walking, sitting and especially getting in an out of the truck so we may be having a home worship service tomorrow. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers. I gave her an ultrasound treatment when we got home and hopefully with some rest she will feel better tomorrow. Well will close for now, LATER
After breakfast I mowed the front and back yards then pulled a few weeds in the garden before heading out to the rec for about an hour workout on the elliptical and slant board for crunches. I had a good wet shirt by the time I stopped off at the library and then rode home on the bike.
We had a lite lunch as we were planning on a big family celebration at the Acropolis in Riverview. This was our second time there and the food was plenty and delicious and Ava and Annsley just loved the OPA dancers, throwing of napkins and breaking of plates. There eyes got so big when a long line of dancers came out and wove their way around our tables. It definitely was a fun time had by all and thanks again Bobby and Amy for making my birthday special with dinner and a gift card. We said good night to the Ross's after dinner as they headed back to Seminole and we headed off to visit Bobby's in laws for about an hour. Brian and Susan(Jill's parents) remodeled a fixer upper house in a nice neighbor and have done a first class job. The house has changed so much both inside and out and is very nice.
Well it seems Nancy has either pinched a nerve or pulled a muscle in her left leg and is having a lot of difficulty walking, sitting and especially getting in an out of the truck so we may be having a home worship service tomorrow. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers. I gave her an ultrasound treatment when we got home and hopefully with some rest she will feel better tomorrow. Well will close for now, LATER
Friday
Well the morning started out with Nancy wishing me Happy Birthday and then fixing a great breakfast for me and our nephews. It was the start of a great day with Amy coming by and bringing Ava and Sam. I got to watch him while they grocery shopped and he is just a joy, always smiling even though he has a tooth just breaking the gum line.
The temp's were hot and muggy with rain through out the day. I hardly ventured out as I had strained a calf muscle on Thursday and now it seems Nancy has pinched a nerve in her left leg or has a strained muscle also. The nephews never left the computer or TV all day as they waited for a phone call from cousin Braden. He fell asleep and never made the call, oh well he is supposed to take them this morning for an adventure.
Nancy made a great supper of fish(the boys are Catholic), rice and spinach and we both made a birthday cake together from zucchini squash I brought from my garden along with some home grown black walnuts. It was just like a carrot cake and very tasty. We sat around after supper and watched the Ray's lose a close game to the Jay's in Canada. Well today promises to be a little more exciting as we travel to the Tampa area for a birthday dinner with Bobby and Amy and their families. The nephews are leaving us and going to stay with their grand parents tonight as they will leave for Michigan on Sunday morning. LATER
The temp's were hot and muggy with rain through out the day. I hardly ventured out as I had strained a calf muscle on Thursday and now it seems Nancy has pinched a nerve in her left leg or has a strained muscle also. The nephews never left the computer or TV all day as they waited for a phone call from cousin Braden. He fell asleep and never made the call, oh well he is supposed to take them this morning for an adventure.
Nancy made a great supper of fish(the boys are Catholic), rice and spinach and we both made a birthday cake together from zucchini squash I brought from my garden along with some home grown black walnuts. It was just like a carrot cake and very tasty. We sat around after supper and watched the Ray's lose a close game to the Jay's in Canada. Well today promises to be a little more exciting as we travel to the Tampa area for a birthday dinner with Bobby and Amy and their families. The nephews are leaving us and going to stay with their grand parents tonight as they will leave for Michigan on Sunday morning. LATER
Friday, August 6, 2010
Thursday
Well it was a busy day with lots of fun things to do and we got a visit in with grand daughter Annsley and her mommy Jill. The morning was the usual with quiet times, breakfast and then Nancy took the nephews over to GG and Pap's so they could spend the day with cousin Garrett. We picked them up on the way home last night from Riverview as we had to change out vehicles because of room due to 2 car seats as Amy, Ava and Samuel went with us as well.
After Nancy took the boys over I headed to the rec for a workout on the elliptical before my pickle ball play at 11. We had about 12 players and had some really good play for 2 hours then I headed home on the bike for a quick bite of lunch before we packed up supper: pork chops, baked spuds and canned peas. We met Amy at GG's and picked her up on the way to Annsley's. Nancy and Amy made a large batch of ginger snaps which we took to GG's and to Annsley's so her daddy could enjoy some when he came home from Orlando on Friday.
We got to Annsley's around 3 PM then shortly after we headed to their beautiful neighborhood pool for a swim and that Annsley's swimming lessons paid off as she is a little fish in the water. We spent about an hour there before we headed back to work on supper. After supper we just chilled watching the girls and Samuel entertaining us with their play. By the way Samuel has his first tooth breaking through the gum on the bottom.
We headed out just before dark and got back to GG's to change out vehicles around 9:20. Both little ones were asleep and it didn't take us long to reach that point once we got in bed ourselves. I did a couple laps in their huge Olympic size pool and along with PB I was bushed plus the good eatin' had done me in. Well it was a fun day getting to watch Ava and Annsley interact and they were so cute in their bath together. Looks like we will get together with them again on Saturday evening as we are heading out to a special Greek restaurant in Tampa to celebrate my 64 years. Instead of tossing plates they toss napkins(too expensive to break plates) and its much like an old world eatery. LATER
After Nancy took the boys over I headed to the rec for a workout on the elliptical before my pickle ball play at 11. We had about 12 players and had some really good play for 2 hours then I headed home on the bike for a quick bite of lunch before we packed up supper: pork chops, baked spuds and canned peas. We met Amy at GG's and picked her up on the way to Annsley's. Nancy and Amy made a large batch of ginger snaps which we took to GG's and to Annsley's so her daddy could enjoy some when he came home from Orlando on Friday.
We got to Annsley's around 3 PM then shortly after we headed to their beautiful neighborhood pool for a swim and that Annsley's swimming lessons paid off as she is a little fish in the water. We spent about an hour there before we headed back to work on supper. After supper we just chilled watching the girls and Samuel entertaining us with their play. By the way Samuel has his first tooth breaking through the gum on the bottom.
We headed out just before dark and got back to GG's to change out vehicles around 9:20. Both little ones were asleep and it didn't take us long to reach that point once we got in bed ourselves. I did a couple laps in their huge Olympic size pool and along with PB I was bushed plus the good eatin' had done me in. Well it was a fun day getting to watch Ava and Annsley interact and they were so cute in their bath together. Looks like we will get together with them again on Saturday evening as we are heading out to a special Greek restaurant in Tampa to celebrate my 64 years. Instead of tossing plates they toss napkins(too expensive to break plates) and its much like an old world eatery. LATER
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Wednesday
Its was a "cooker" outside all day and we really felt it as we(nephews) headed to the rec walking as Nancy had to drive her parents around; doctors, bank, grocery shopping, etc. The boys and I started the morning out with buckwheat cakes and eggs then took off to workout, play ping pong, billiards and air hockey. We had several hours at the rec of good busyness in spite of the summer camp going on. The rec has become a great babysitter for only 5 bucks a kids per day plus its rather close by with only about 1/2 mile walk.
We stayed at the rec until about 1:30 then headed home to grille some dogs for lunch. We just chilled until Nancy came home around 4 PM so we headed back to the rec so she could get her workout in and we once again played ping pong and billiards. We got back around 5:30 and then I grille marinated chicken breasts for fajitas and black beans and rice. Yummy!!! Everyone enjoyed that meal and we were sure glad we had a great day of activity.
After cleanup we settled in to watch the Ray's lose a 13 inning game 2-1 to the Twins. The boys were on the computer playing games and were back in forth watching as well as texting to some "friend". I think it was a girl that Evan met as he has been clued to his blackberry. Well we are heading over to Jill and Annsley's this afternoon to swim, eat supper and to just let the girls plays, as we are taking Amy, Ava and Sam along as well. Should be a fun day as the nephews are spending the day with Pap,and GG and their cousin Garrett is also coming there as well. LATER
We stayed at the rec until about 1:30 then headed home to grille some dogs for lunch. We just chilled until Nancy came home around 4 PM so we headed back to the rec so she could get her workout in and we once again played ping pong and billiards. We got back around 5:30 and then I grille marinated chicken breasts for fajitas and black beans and rice. Yummy!!! Everyone enjoyed that meal and we were sure glad we had a great day of activity.
After cleanup we settled in to watch the Ray's lose a 13 inning game 2-1 to the Twins. The boys were on the computer playing games and were back in forth watching as well as texting to some "friend". I think it was a girl that Evan met as he has been clued to his blackberry. Well we are heading over to Jill and Annsley's this afternoon to swim, eat supper and to just let the girls plays, as we are taking Amy, Ava and Sam along as well. Should be a fun day as the nephews are spending the day with Pap,and GG and their cousin Garrett is also coming there as well. LATER
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Tuesday
Well it was another typical Florida morning with bright sunshine, hot temps and tons of humidity. I guess when you compare our temps here with mid-America its not so bad. Ours stays in the middle 90's while we saw yesterday in Tennessee it was over a 100 in many places. Anyhow its just to darn hot to do anything outside.
Amy called about 8 and indicated she needed some help with little Ava as she has been throwing up along with some diarrhea all night long, so Nancy took off for their place. The nephews were going with an old family friend for the day so they would have something to do besides being bored. I headed over to relieve Nancy as she had to drive her mother to a doctors appointment. It was the start of one of those days. I eventually got Ava to take some fluids and a good drink of some ginger in some water which helped with her tummy ache. Just a note to all who get upset tummy's take a little of the spice Ginger in your cabinets with a little water and its almost instant relief, oh well!!!She finally fell asleep so I headed home on the bike and then took off for the rec to workout. Boy was it ever a cooker out there.
Nancy got back from running her errands then headed back over to help Amy with Ava. She was doing a little better but still wanted to be held. About 3 we both took off for the rec; she to get her 30 minutes in on the treadmill and me for my second workout for the day on the elliptical and crunch board. I had another wet shirt, yikes I love the physical activity but that's all I'm getting except for the 2 times we get on the pickle ball court weekly.
Nancy and I just cleaned up leftover's for both lunch and supper. We had to change our plans from going over and spending the afternoon and evening with Jill and Annsley because of Ava's illness and grilling marinated chicken breasts so we will fix them this evening with the nephews.
Well Ray's have taken first place in their division against the Yankees with another come from behind win against the Twins last night. At least I get to watch them play ball on the TV where in the mountains it was strictly on the Internet. Wednesday, today should be another day of juggling Dr visits, entertaining the nephews and fixing food. LATER
Amy called about 8 and indicated she needed some help with little Ava as she has been throwing up along with some diarrhea all night long, so Nancy took off for their place. The nephews were going with an old family friend for the day so they would have something to do besides being bored. I headed over to relieve Nancy as she had to drive her mother to a doctors appointment. It was the start of one of those days. I eventually got Ava to take some fluids and a good drink of some ginger in some water which helped with her tummy ache. Just a note to all who get upset tummy's take a little of the spice Ginger in your cabinets with a little water and its almost instant relief, oh well!!!She finally fell asleep so I headed home on the bike and then took off for the rec to workout. Boy was it ever a cooker out there.
Nancy got back from running her errands then headed back over to help Amy with Ava. She was doing a little better but still wanted to be held. About 3 we both took off for the rec; she to get her 30 minutes in on the treadmill and me for my second workout for the day on the elliptical and crunch board. I had another wet shirt, yikes I love the physical activity but that's all I'm getting except for the 2 times we get on the pickle ball court weekly.
Nancy and I just cleaned up leftover's for both lunch and supper. We had to change our plans from going over and spending the afternoon and evening with Jill and Annsley because of Ava's illness and grilling marinated chicken breasts so we will fix them this evening with the nephews.
Well Ray's have taken first place in their division against the Yankees with another come from behind win against the Twins last night. At least I get to watch them play ball on the TV where in the mountains it was strictly on the Internet. Wednesday, today should be another day of juggling Dr visits, entertaining the nephews and fixing food. LATER
Monday, August 2, 2010
Monday
Wow we has a down pour last night just after we went to bed, it was a frog swallower. Anyhow the day was a hot and humid one with 95 and bright sunshine at times. After our quiet times we got the boys up for some egg sandwiches when Amy called and needed Nancy to come over to her house as Ava wasn't feeling well. We're not sure and neither is doctor if Ava may be getting a UTI from a bad case of diarrhea but she has been lethargic the past couple days wanting to rest a lot so that made us suspicious as well. Anyhow the doctor gave her an antibiotic to see if that clears it up.
After breakfast the boys and myself walked to the rec and they watched to see what pickle ball was all about then they played in the game room with another cousin, Braden who came down and spent the day as well. They had a great time together. I did beer brat's for supper and GG made Greek potato salad. We ate at GG's then took Eric to the airport for his flight back to Michigan, the boys(his son's Evan and Pat) will be here until Sunday when they ride back with their friend John.
Well the Rays picked up another win tonight beating the Twins 4-2. Not much else is happening except Pap seems much better as he is becoming his old cantankerous self again. LATER
After breakfast the boys and myself walked to the rec and they watched to see what pickle ball was all about then they played in the game room with another cousin, Braden who came down and spent the day as well. They had a great time together. I did beer brat's for supper and GG made Greek potato salad. We ate at GG's then took Eric to the airport for his flight back to Michigan, the boys(his son's Evan and Pat) will be here until Sunday when they ride back with their friend John.
Well the Rays picked up another win tonight beating the Twins 4-2. Not much else is happening except Pap seems much better as he is becoming his old cantankerous self again. LATER
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Sunday
Well it was another busy day with church in Tampa at Element. It was good to hear our son Bobby give a great talk on marriage. Such a young guy to be filled with such wisdom just fills my heart with pride. He had a packed house with tons of new faces and of course it was great to see so many old familiar faces and so many new babies.
We got home around 1 PM and cleaned up some leftovers from the past couple days; smoked chicken(wasn't much but oh so good), squash casserole and carrots. After lunch I chilled with the third game of the Ray's vs Yank's game and the Ray's took the game with a 3-0 shutout. That puts us 1 game behind them in our division and the second best club record wise in all of baseball.
We had another family dinner tonight with 15 folks, so there was another full house. The eatin' was good but I'm about dinnered out especially with so many every night since Thursday. Well it was another Hot and Muggy day and it doesn't look as if the weather is going to change anytime soon. I learned the temps at cabin was 58 this morning with wet weather. Oh that sounds so nice. I surely miss those hills and all the folks there as well as being able to out to the garden and pick fresh vegetables. It was great to visit with all of my grand children today. Well better go, at least I have some pickle ball tomorrow to look forward too, LATER
We got home around 1 PM and cleaned up some leftovers from the past couple days; smoked chicken(wasn't much but oh so good), squash casserole and carrots. After lunch I chilled with the third game of the Ray's vs Yank's game and the Ray's took the game with a 3-0 shutout. That puts us 1 game behind them in our division and the second best club record wise in all of baseball.
We had another family dinner tonight with 15 folks, so there was another full house. The eatin' was good but I'm about dinnered out especially with so many every night since Thursday. Well it was another Hot and Muggy day and it doesn't look as if the weather is going to change anytime soon. I learned the temps at cabin was 58 this morning with wet weather. Oh that sounds so nice. I surely miss those hills and all the folks there as well as being able to out to the garden and pick fresh vegetables. It was great to visit with all of my grand children today. Well better go, at least I have some pickle ball tomorrow to look forward too, LATER
Saturday
Well once again another HOT and MUGGY morning, day and afternoon, now I know why we headed to N.C. during the summers since I've retired. There is very little you want to do outside here in the summers cause I'm an outside person, oh well. After our quiet times Nancy made a mountain breakfast as our 2 nephews Evan and Pat Everett who are staying with us for a week. Good ole' buckwheat cakes and eggs. After eating we hung around until early afternoon when their dad and a friend John Mc, who drove them down from Michigan came and picked them up to visit their grand dad, Nancy's dad.
Nancy and I headed out to the rec to get a workout in for about 45 minutes; she on the t(d)readmill and me on the elliptical and slant board for sit ups. I had a good wet shirt then we headed to Publix once again for groceries as we had another family dinner at our house with about 14. Everyone stayed until 10 PM as we watched the Rays lose to the Yank's in the last inning, it was a good game but we needed that one as we fell 2 games back of first place.
We are getting ready to head out to Element Church in Tampa this AM and it will probably be after 1 PM before we get home and get ready for the gang once again this evening for supper. Seems Nancy has taken it upon herself to cook for everyone while her brother is in town, he's leaving Monday night and the boys are staying another week. Well we will busy this week this entertaining, cooking and driving her folks around plus heading over to Tampa to help with Jill while Bobby is out of town as well. Nancy's dad seems to be getting better every day up to a point but that doesn't look like it will be good enough to head back to the mountains until we need to go back and winterize the place. LATER
Nancy and I headed out to the rec to get a workout in for about 45 minutes; she on the t(d)readmill and me on the elliptical and slant board for sit ups. I had a good wet shirt then we headed to Publix once again for groceries as we had another family dinner at our house with about 14. Everyone stayed until 10 PM as we watched the Rays lose to the Yank's in the last inning, it was a good game but we needed that one as we fell 2 games back of first place.
We are getting ready to head out to Element Church in Tampa this AM and it will probably be after 1 PM before we get home and get ready for the gang once again this evening for supper. Seems Nancy has taken it upon herself to cook for everyone while her brother is in town, he's leaving Monday night and the boys are staying another week. Well we will busy this week this entertaining, cooking and driving her folks around plus heading over to Tampa to help with Jill while Bobby is out of town as well. Nancy's dad seems to be getting better every day up to a point but that doesn't look like it will be good enough to head back to the mountains until we need to go back and winterize the place. LATER
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